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Disquiet In Aso Rock As ‘Starboy’ Osinbajo’s Fate Hangs

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The fate of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who President Muhammadu Buhari once described as a loyal deputy was hanging in the balance last night.

Prof. Osinbajo has been more than just a number two; he has been the poster boy of the administration.

A man of intellectual depth, Osinbajo speaks eloquently about the administration’s economic policies.

But on Monday, the Presidency announced the replacement of the Economic Management Team (EMT), which Osinbajo chairs, with an Economic Advisory Council (EAC), to be chaired by Prof Doyin Salami.

Other members of the new body are Dr. Mohammed Sagagi (Vice-Chairman), Prof Ode Ojowu, Dr Shehu Yahaya, Dr Iyabo Masha, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, Mr Bismark Rewane, and Dr Mohammed Adaya Salisu (Secretary).

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, said the advisory council “will be reporting directly to the President”.

Barely 24 hours after constituting the EAC, there is disquiet within the government and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), over alleged plans to relocate some top aides of the Vice President from the Presidential Villa to some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The developments fueled the claims that some forces were out to “curtail” the VP’s powers by excising some agencies under his supervision.

Deepening the fears was the alleged memo from President Muhammadu Buhari directing the Vice President to henceforth seek presidential approvals in the running of the agencies under his supervision.

But Osinbajo denied any rift in the Presidency.

He said agencies under his supervision are acting constitutionally.

A statement by his spokesman Laolu Akande said: “Our attention has been drawn to a sensational report by The Cable which claims that His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, has directed Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, to seek approvals for agencies under him.

“The report suggests, falsely, that agencies under the supervision of the Vice President do not normally comply with established rules where presidential approvals are required.

“This is obviously misleading and aims only to plant seeds of discord in the Presidency while attempting to create unnecessary national hysteria.

“The agencies in question are established by law and the Vice President has always insisted on due compliance with the enabling statutes and other established regulations.

“Depending on the particular scope of activity in question, agencies may require management approval only, at the level of the Director-General or Chief Executive Officer. In this category fall the great majority of their day-to-day activities.

“However, other activities, or procurements, with a value exceeding a certain threshold, require Board approval. These may get to the agency Board chaired by the Vice President.

“In a few cases where Presidential approval is required, the Director-General must seek such approval from the President, through the Vice President.

“These rules have always guided the activities of statutory agencies and the ones under the Vice President’s supervision have always been so guided.”

The Vice President said he never failed to comply with the law.

He cautioned against moves to cause disaffection in the presidency especially between him and the President.

He said he has an effective and mutually respectful relationship with the President.

He said: “To claim that in the first term of the Buhari administration, agencies of government have not been complying with the provisions (of getting final approvals from the President) is false, and the attempt to suggest the Vice President’s complicity in such irregularities is simply mischievous and reprehensible.

“The effective and mutually respecting relationship between the President and the Vice President is well known to Nigerians and it is futile to insinuate otherwise.

“Even though the Vice President has a statutory role as Board Chairman of some government agencies under his office, with appropriate approval limits, which often do not include contract approvals; it is ludicrous to even insinuate that a Board Chairman approves contracts.

“Evidently, the Federal Executive Council, which oversees Federal ministries and agencies of government, is chaired by the President, and it is in its purview to approve or ratify award of contracts within the prescribed threshold.

“The Vice President remains committed to the service of his fatherland and will continue to do so despite the purveyors of fake news. We urge media organisations, as gatekeepers to uphold truth, balance, fairness and objectivity in their reports.”

The agencies being supervised by the Vice President are the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the National Boundary Commission (NBC), the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) and the Social Investment Programmes (SIP).

It was gathered that the SIP may now operate under the newly created Ministry of Social Development, Humanitarian Affairs & Disaster Management.

A top source said: “A proposal has now been forwarded to President Muhammadu Buhari seeking his approval for the dispersal of most of the Presidential advisers and aides in the Vice President’s office outside the Presidential Villa.

“If the President consents, all the VP’s key aides and advisers covering a variety of briefs would then be posted out of the Villa to the MDAs.

Sources last night spoke of an alleged plot to “muzzle” the Vice President ahead of permutations for 2023.

But a government source said: “I am not aware of political animosity in the Presidency. The reality is that the resources available to the government are shrinking and we have to realign some MDAs within the scarce resources.

“Go and read the report of Ahmed Joda transition committee in 2015 when this government was being put in place. Restructuring bureaucracy has no tribal or religious colour.

“No matter what you do, no one can put a wedge between the President and the Vice President. They have mutual respect for each other.”

Observers believe there will be conflict in the roles of the EAC and the statutory National Economic Council (NEC), headed by the VP.

The constitution gives NEC the power to “advise” the President on economic affairs.

Section H of Part 1 of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution says: “The National Economic Council shall comprise the following members – (a) the Vice President (b) the Governor of each state of the Federation; and (c) the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria established under the Central Bank of Nigeria Decree 1991 or any enactment replacing that Decree.

“The National Economic Council shall have the power to advise the President concerning economic affairs of the Federation, and in particular on measures necessary for the coordination of the economic planning efforts or economic programmes of the various governments of the Federation.”

Presidential spokesman Adesina said in the statement announcing the formation of the EAC that it “will advise the President on economic policy matters, including fiscal analysis, economic growth and a range of internal and global economic issues working with the relevant cabinet members and heads of monetary and fiscal agencies.

He added: “The EAC will have monthly technical sessions as well as scheduled quarterly meetings with the president. The chairman may, however, request for unscheduled meetings if the need arises.”

A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “We see the two bodies as one with EAC comprised of economic experts and NEC composed of political leaders. Even the advisory council has no constitutional backing.”

Another APC chief said: “We are worried because the advisory council is suggesting that the APC administration has run out of ideas such that we are now recruiting some experts used by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past.”

Text (Excluding Headline) courtesy of The Nation)

BIG STORY

BREAKING: CAF Slams Libya $50,000 Fine, Awards Super Eagles 3 Points

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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya over the “inhumane treatment” inflicted on the Nigerian national team, while awarding the Super Eagles three points and three goals.

This was revealed by Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, in a post on his X handle on Saturday.

The decision follows CAF’s investigation into Libya’s maltreatment of the Super Eagles upon their arrival in the North African nation for the return leg of the African Cup of Nations qualifiers.

“CAF awards three points and three goals to Nigeria. Libya fined $50,000.

“Plane was diverted 300km from scheduled airport even when the pilot told them he was low on fuel.

“One step closer to our target AFCON 2025,” Troost-Ekong wrote.

 

More to come…

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BIG STORY

Court Gives Herbert Wigwe’s Cousin 8-Days Ultimatum To Explain Interest In Deceased Banker’s Estate

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The Lagos State High Court Probate Registry has given Christian Wigwe an ultimatum to explain his interest in the estate of his cousin, the late Herbert Wigwe, former group managing director and CEO of Access Bank.

Christian had lodged a caveat on behalf of Shyngle Wigwe, the father of the deceased, apparently to contest the estate’s distribution as specified in the late banker’s will.

A caveat is a formal written notice filed with the probate registry, challenging the validity of a deceased person’s will to halt estate administration until the matter is resolved. By filing the caveat, Christian aims to prevent the estate’s administration from proceeding without notification.

In a document dated 21 October, the Lagos probate registry issued a legal notice, giving the caveator, Christian, an eight-day ultimatum upon service to explain his interest in the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe.

“The Lagos State High Court Probate Registry setting forth what interest you have in the Estate of the above-named deceased, Late Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe of No. 11 Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, Lagos, contrary to the interest of the party at whose instance this warning is issued,” the notice reads.

The notice calls on Christian to respond and assert his interest in the estate of his deceased cousin. If he fails to respond within the given timeframe, he risks losing the opportunity to contest the probate process.

“If you have no contrary interest but wish to show cause against the sealing of a grant to such a party to issue and serve a Summons for direction by the Registrar of the said registry.

“And take notice that in default of your so doing the Court may proceed to issue a grant of Probate or Administration in the said Estate notwithstanding your Caveat,” the probate legal notice read.

The notice was issued at the instance of Uchechukwu Wigwe, the appointed personal representative of the estate under the deceased’s will dated 9 July 2013.

This requires Christian to appear at the Court Probate Registry to explain his interest in his late cousin’s estate.

Background

Christian Wigwe, the deceased’s cousin, in an affidavit dated 7 October and filed at the Lagos State High Court Probate Registry, accused Herbert Wigwe’s partner Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede of assuming a role meant for the deceased’s father, Shyngle Wigwe.

There have been recent controversies within the Wigwe family regarding the deceased’s estate.

Reports on several online platforms indicated that Herbert’s father, Shyngle Wigwe, is allegedly at the center of a dispute over the distribution of his late son’s estate.

Christian reportedly filed a caveat to challenge the proposed distribution.

However, a statement signed by a family member, Emeka Wigwe, refuted these allegations, calling the reports “false and grossly misleading.” The statement emphasized the well-being and unity of the family and stated that no family member had sought 20 percent of the deceased’s estate.

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BIG STORY

A Life Of Purpose And Leadership: Celebrating The Legacy Of AFRIMA’s Vice President, Modupe Temitope Dada

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Late Modupe Temitope Oriyomi Ige Dada will forever be remembered as a beacon of selflessness, compassion, and dedication. She lived a life of purpose, both professionally and personally. As a highly accomplished investment banking professional with over two decades of experience, Modupe touched countless lives through her work and her enduring spirit of service.

She was a woman of remarkable grace, strength, and immeasurable faith. Modupe was not only a dedicated professional but also a loving and caring wife, a nurturing mother, and a source of compassion for many.

Her life was defined by her deep commitment to relationships—whether as a friend, colleague, or family member. She had an innate ability to connect with others, always extending a helping hand, a listening ear, or comforting words to those around her.

As a wife, Mrs Dada embodied the true essence of love, submissiveness, and partnership. She was a supportive spouse, standing beside her husband, Mike Dada, in every endeavour. Mike Dada is the President and Executive Producer, All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) in partnership with the African Union, a global music award institution and the Managing Director of PRM Africa Marketing and Communication Limited as well as a lawyer and techpreneur.

Her home was built on a foundation of mutual respect, love, and faith. Modupe’s commitment to her family was steadfast, and she played an important role in nurturing and guiding her children, instilling in them the same values of love, service, and compassion that she lived by.

Known as a perfomer,Modupe excelled as a banking expert, recognized for her strategic leadership and operational excellence. At the time of her passing, she was serving as the Branch Manager at Fidelity Bank PLC, a position she assumed in September 2024. In a short period, she demonstrated her exceptional talent for turning around loss-making branches into profit-generating entities, a skill she had developed throughout her distinguished career.

Modupe’s journey began humbly as journalist with the Nigerian Tribune. After a brief stint as a Marketing Manager at My Phone Nigeria Ltd and serving as the Protocol Manager for the All Africa Games (COJA’03) in Abuja, she ventured into the banking sector. Her banking career started at the now-defunct Pacific Bank Ltd as a Customer Service Officer from 2004 to 2005.

In October 2005, Modupe became a cash officer at Unity Bank Plc, where she supervised the daily activities of cashiers and ensured compliance with cash limits.

Her operational expertise led to her promotion in December 2009 to Head of Operations at Unity Bank Plc, a position she held until March 2012. In this role, she ensured sufficient cash was available in the vault, managed cash limits for cashiers, and collaborated closely with commercial and consumer banking teams to develop value-chain marketing strategies for potential clients.

In February 2013, Modupe joined Keystone Bank Limited as a relationship manager for commercial banking. She played a vital role in formulating and implementing strategies for acquiring and retaining accounts across various sectors. Her efforts helped the branch achieve established goals and consistently meet performance targets.

Her dedication and outstanding performance resulted in her appointment as Branch Manager of Commercial Banking at Keystone Bank in October 2013, a position she held until June 2024. During her tenure, she demonstrated remarkable leadership by transforming two loss-making branches into profitable ones within just three months. She led initiatives to increase deposit positions, created quality risk assets, and provided overall team leadership to ensure the branch consistently met its financial targets.

In June 2024, Modupe was appointed as Sector Head for Private Banking (UHNI) at Keystone Bank, where she managed relationships with ultra-high-net-worth individual clients, offering customized financial solutions tailored to their unique needs.

She held this role before later joining Fidelity Bank PLC, where she served until her passing.

Her leadership was not solely about achieving numbers; it focused on fostering a culture of efficiency, team collaboration, and effective risk management. Under her stewardship, branches that were once struggling flourished, and her team thrived under her guidance.

Beyond her professional achievements,like her husband, Mrs. Dada was a lifelong learner. She earned an MBA in Marketing from Lead City University, along with a Postgraduate Diploma from Lagos State University. Her academic journey also included an HND in Mass Communication from The Polytechnic Ibadan,an OND from Ogun State Polytechnic, complemented by numerous professional certifications. Modupe’s relentless pursuit of knowledge led her to complete the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School and the Associate Chartered Banker Programme at the same institution. She is also an Associate Chartered Banker (ACIB).She was expected to conclude her Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program in November 2024 before she passed on in October 2024.

She held certifications in Money Laundering Prevention & Compliance, the Terrorism Finance Act, Export Trade Training on Learning Management Systems (LMS), Cluster Compliance Training on the CBN Dollarization Policy, and Customer Due Diligence in Digital Banking, among others.

Mrs. Dada was more than just a leader; she was also a mentor, a team player, and a resilient goal-getter. Her strong communication skills, high sense of fashion,creative thinking, and global business mindset endeared her to both colleagues and clients. She was passionate about excellence and driven by the desire to contribute to the well-being of others.

Outside of banking, Modupe found joy in reading, traveling, fashion,helping others and learning. Her curious mind was always exploring new ideas and ways to improve both herself and her environment. She embodied grace, good character,resilience, and determination—qualities that made her an inspiration to many who crossed her path.

Not only was she an exemplary professional, but she was also a devoted lover of Christ who served God passionately throughout her life. Her faith guided her actions, decisions, and relationships, consistently embodying Christian values both at home and in her career.

Born on May 5, 1976, in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Modupe took great pride in her roots. Her passing is a profound loss to all who knew her, but her legacy will live on through the institutions she helped build, the people she mentored, and the countless lives she touched throughout her career.

As we remember, Modupe Temitope Dada nee Baruwa, we honour not only her contributions to the banking industry but also her spirit of excellence, compassion, and dedication to making a difference. She was, and will always remain, a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose, integrity, and heart.

May her soul rest in peace.

 

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