Adron Homes Chairman Announces Ojude Oba Sponsorship, Pays Homage to Awujale
Adron Homes team consisting of Senior executives and the Chairman and Group Managing Director; Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King has paid a courtesy business visit to the Palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland over the week. This significant visit, underscored the profound respect accorded to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sikiru Adetona Ogbagba II, the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, who recently celebrated his momentous 90th birthday.
Characterized by an atmosphere of reverence and admiration,Adron Chairman gave a touching address where he expressed deep gratitude to Kabiyesi, extolling his virtues as a father figure to all ijebu sons and daughters across the world. Aare Adetola extended sincere wishes for more glorious years of service to the people of Ijebuland and prayed for the monarch’s enduring health and long reign.
As Nigeria’s leading real estate company, Adron Homes once again showcased its unwavering commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation during the visit.
The Chairman also announced Adron Homes eagerness and readiness to be a major sponsor of this year’s Ojude Oba Festival. This colourful and widely attended annual celebration serves as a profound connection between the past and present, uniting generations of the Ijebu people to celebrate their rich heritage and express gratitude for the year’s blessings.
Aare Adetola promised significant discounts on all Adron Homes products in the Ileya 2024 promo and Ojude Oba event. This initiative aims to encourage both Ijebu indigenes and non-indigenes to invest in properties within any Adron Homes Estate nationwide, thereby promoting widespread homeownership and community development.
In response, Oba Adetona bestowed his blessings on the Adron Homes Team. Kabiyesi expressed profound gratitude to God Almighty and offered special thanks and prayers for the management of Adron Homes. He further encouraged the company to maintain its exemplary status as a proudly Nigerian real estate brand.
Lawyers applaud Gov Fubara’s remarkable performance on one-year anniversary
A Coalition of Lawyers in Nigeria under the aegis of Lawyers for Justice has rated Governor Siminalayi Fubara high on his first anniversary in office.
In a statement signed by its President, Moses Okino, the group said it came to this conclusion after a comprehensive assessment tour across the state to evaluate the governor’s performance.
According to Okino, the tour covered various local government areas, where the coalition interacted with citizens, community leaders, and project beneficiaries.
The Lawyers for Justice acknowledged the governor’s efforts in revitalizing the state’s economy, improving security, and enhancing the overall quality of life for Rivers State citizens through infrastructural development, education, and healthcare, among others.
“After a comprehensive tour of Rivers State, our members had the opportunity to assess and evaluate Governor Fubara’s achievements, and we are impressed by his remarkable leadership, vision, and commitment to the development of the state,” the statement said.
“In the past year, Governor Fubara has demonstrated a clear understanding of the needs of Rivers State and its people. His administration’s accomplishments in various sectors, including infrastructure development, education, healthcare, security, and economic growth, are a testament to his dedication to good governance and the rule of law.
“We are particularly impressed by Governor Fubara’s commitment to the rule of law and his administration’s respect for human rights. His efforts to promote peace, justice, and reconciliation in Rivers State are laudable, and we believe that his leadership style is a model for other states in Nigeria to follow.
“As lawyers, we recognize the importance of good governance, accountability, and transparency in government. We are pleased to see that Governor Fubara’s administration has demonstrated these qualities in its dealings with the people of Rivers State.
“We commend Governor Fubara for his exceptional leadership and his commitment to the development of Rivers State. His achievements in one year are a testament to his dedication to the people of Rivers State, and we believe that he is on the right path to leaving a lasting legacy.
“We encourage Governor Fubara to continue his good work and to remain focused on his vision for a better Rivers State. We also call on the people of Rivers State to continue to support their Governor in his quest to develop the state and improve the lives of its citizens.”
ZENITH BANK RECOGNISED AS THE MOST SUSTAINABLE BANK IN NIGERIA FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE INTERNATIONAL BANKER AWARDS 2024
Zenith Bank Plc has been named the “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” in the International Banker 2024 Banking Awards, retaining the title for the second consecutive year.
Commenting on the award, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “We are deeply honoured to be recognised as the Most Sustainable Bank in Nigeria for the second time in a row. This prestigious award underscores our steadfast commitment to sustainability and reinforces our belief that responsible banking is essential for long-term success and societal impact.”
She dedicated the award to the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR. She lauded the Bank’s stakeholders for their commitment and unwavering support in ensuring that Zenith remains a highly successful institution. She said, “This remarkable achievement is a testament to the visionary and impactful leadership of our Founder and Chairman, Dr. Jim Ovia, CFR. His exceptional foresight and dedication have been the cornerstone of our success. His ability to inspire and guide with strategic acumen has been instrumental in steering Zenith Bank to new heights. Along with the strategic guidance of our esteemed Board members, the unwavering commitment of our ever-diligent staff, and the steadfast support of our loyal customers, Dr. Ovia’s leadership has been pivotal in transforming our sustainability initiatives into a reality. We owe this success to his relentless pursuit of excellence and his deep-seated commitment to redefining the banking landscape in Nigeria.”
This recognition reaffirms Zenith Bank’s position as a trailblazer in sustainable banking practices, setting a benchmark for excellence within the Nigerian banking industry and beyond. The Bank has been a leader in monitoring and reporting sustainability impact. Since becoming the first Bank in Africa to publish a stand-alone sustainability report in accordance with the GRI Standards: Core Option in 2016, Zenith Bank has consistently published assured stand-alone sustainability reports. The Bank is one of the few institutions in Nigeria that tracks its carbon emissions using a certified tool built on the internationally recognised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol.
Zenith Bank is deeply committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values, subscribing to the Triple Bottom Line principle, which encompasses People, Planet, and Profit. As a leading financial institution that services various sectors of the economy, the Bank considers Environmental and Social (E&S) risk management critical to its sustainability strategy.
Zenith Bank’s track record of excellent performance has continued to earn the brand numerous awards, including being recognised as Best Bank in Nigeria for the fourth time in five years, from 2020 to 2022 and in 2024, in the Global Finance World’s Best Banks Awards; the Best Bank for Digital Solutions in Nigeria in the Euromoney Awards 2023; being listed in the World Finance Top 100 Global Companies in 2023; being recognised as the Number One Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 Capital for the 14th consecutive year in the 2023 Top 1000 World Banks Ranking published by The Banker Magazine; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria, for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023 in the World Finance Banking Awards; Best Corporate Governance Bank, Nigeria in the World Finance Corporate Governance Awards 2022 and 2023; Bank of the Year (Nigeria) in The Banker’s Bank of the Year Awards 2020 and 2022; Best in Corporate Governance Financial Services Africa for four successive years from 2020 to 2023 by the Ethical Boardroom; Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria in the International Banker 2023 Banking Awards; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria and Best Innovation in Retail Banking, Nigeria in the International Banker 2022 Banking Awards.
Additionally, the Bank emerged as the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria in the Banker Magazine Top 500 Banking Brands 2020 and 2021; Bank of the Year 2023 and Retail Bank of the Year for three consecutive years from 2020 to 2022 at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards. Similarly, Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice) at the ThisDay Awards 2020, Bank of the Year 2021 by Champion Newspaper, Bank of the Year 2022 by New Telegraph Newspaper, and Most Responsible Organisation in Africa 2021 by SERAS.
Published by Finance Publishing Limited, the International Banker Magazine, United Kingdom, is a leading global source of authoritative analysis and opinion on banking, finance and world affairs. Its influence, integrity, accuracy and objective opinion have earned it global recognition. The International Banker Awards strive to recognise the most worthy financial institutions around the world – those not just doing their jobs well but exceptionally well – those operating at the industry’s cutting edge and setting new performance levels to which others will aspire. The 2024 Banking Awards focused on various criteria, including the provision of much-needed capital for economic growth, cutting-edge innovation to enhance security and efficiency, commitment to sustainability and ESG principles, as well as intelligent investing to maximise profits and shareholder value.
Ecobank Nigeria Announces Third Edition of ‘Adire Lagos Experience’
Ecobank Nigeria says it has concluded plans to host the third edition of ‘Adire Lagos Experience’. The planned four days exhibition will take place at the ultra-modern Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Island, Lagos from Thursday, June 14th till Sunday, 17th, 2024. Announcing the program in Lagos, Adeola Ogunyemi, Head, Consumer Banking, said the exhibition will feature authentic Adire fabric displays from over 100 diverse merchants, indigenous cuisine, and African entertainment, adding that there will be series of masterclasses, as well as networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, shoppers, and everyone in the business of making or trading in Adire.
“We are encouraged with the success of the previous editions of the ‘Adire Lagos Experience’ and we plan to make this year’s edition bigger and better. The exhibition is in line with our brand promise as a pan-African financial institution to promote culture and boost tourism on the continent. We have through this opportunity playing a notable part in contributing to boost Nigeria’s tourism, culture and the creative industry using Adire as a key driver. High profile exhibitors, vendors, expatriates, influencers and dignitaries from different parts of the world and from all walks of life have indicated interest to be part of the event. I am therefore inviting Nigerians, diasporans resident in Nigeria and the diplomatic corps to attend the four day event.” She stated.
Further, Mrs Ogunyemi reiterated that the exhibition aligns perfectly with the Ecobank’s commitment as a Pan-African Institution to offer experiences that go beyond banking and also dedicated to creating enriching experiences that resonate with its customers’ lifestyles while celebrating the diversity of our nation’s culture. “We are providing a cozy ambience with utmost serenity to make participants feel comfortable and safe. Participation is free, and everyone is welcome to invite family and friends to come over to witness the beautiful event. This Exhibition also presents an opportunity not only to sell and buy products but to experience the luxuriance in our culture.”
Expected to grace the occasion are top government officials from Lagos, Ogun and other neighbouring states and stakeholders in adire business.
Ecobank Nigeria, a key driver of tourism, culture and the creative industries in Nigeria recently hosted the +234Art, a 10-day art fair dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the burgeoning art industry in Nigeria. The fair provided a platform to support emerging artists and encourage increased interest in art acquisition; also the bank organized the Photography, Art, and Design Exhibition (PADE) to commemorate World Photography Day in 2022; the bank also partnered “Songs & Stories” With Cobhams Asuquo; Redbull Dance Your Style; BellaNaija Style Summit and Loosing Daylight (An exhibition of the history of Nollywood organised by Nse Ikpe-Etim).
UBA Celebrates Africa Day in Style, Commits to Empowering Youths for Leadership Roles
Africa’s Global bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, joined the rest of the world on Friday, May 24, 2024, to mark this year’s edition of the Africa Day.
The celebration which went on concurrently across all of its subsidiaries in Africa as well as in the United Kingdom, France, United States of America and the United Arab Emirates, had the underlying theme: Education Fit for the 21st Century.
To mark the event, staff members were dressed in colourful African attire displaying the cultural diversity of the employees of United Bank for Africa.
There were dance troupes in various offices across the continent organised by UBA subsidiaries, where staff, clients and the public were entertained with African drums and cultural dancers as well as choice African fruits and snacks.
A major highlight of the event was the selection of best dressed staff across various categories, representing the diverse African culture. As voted by the staff, Chisom Augustine, emerged the winner of the Best Indigenous concept while Sarah Richter clinched the fan’s choice for Best Indigenous Concept (Rest of the World). Temitayo Abayomi won the jury’s choice as best dressed Nigerian staff. Several other winners also emerged across various cadre.
They bank rewarded each of the winners with various cash prizes at a glamorous closing ceremony which was held at its Head office and replicated across other branches and subsidiaries.
UBA’s Group Head, Human Resources, Modupe Akindele, who addressed staff during the closing ceremony at the UBA Head Office in Lagos, commended staff members for their hard-work over the years, and noted that the annual event had become a lifestyle for the bank.
She said, “We at UBA celebrate Africa Day with the rest of Africa. We are Africa, United by one Bank. Today is a day to remind ourselves that we have all it takes in Africa, be it fashion, talent, and creativity. The message is about being African and being proud of our heritage. We want to showcase who we are and what we have.”
Continuing, she said, “For us at UBA, identifying with Africa and indeed Africa Day is synonymous with who we are as a bank. It presents us the opportunity to remind ourselves, the world and indeed Africa that we owe ourselves the duty of making Africa the continent of our dreams.”
UBA celebrates Africa Day annually in line with the official celebration by African nations, reiterating its long-held belief that the future belongs to the continent. Africa Day is an annual event, commemorating the birth of the African union on May 25, 1963. It is dedicated to celebrating the diversity of the African continent, and to highlight the cultural and economic potential that exists on the continent.
The bank leverages on the occasion to rekindle the African spirit that drives the UBA group’s vision to be a dominant financial services provider on the continent and its emergence as a recognizable economic power.
United Bank for Africa is one of the largest employers in the financial sector on the African continent, with 25,000 employees group wide and serving over 35 million customers globally. Operating in twenty African countries and in the United Kingdom, the United States of America, France and the United Arab Emirates, UBA provides retail, commercial and institutional banking services, leading financial inclusion and implementing cutting edge technology.
FIRSTBANK MAINTAINS IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE, POSTS N238.53BN PBT IN Q1 2024
FBN Holdings Plc declared N238.53 billion profit before tax (PBT) in its unaudited first quarter (Q1) ended March 31, 2024 results, which was about 325.2percent growth from the N56.1 billion reported in Q1 ended March 31, 2023.
The Q1 2024 results was a reflection of 2023 impressive performance as one of the oldest banks in Nigeria sustained its fundamentals amid domestic and foreign challenges. From its Q1 2024 profit & loss figures, the Group declared N208.1 billion profit, which was about 315.8 per cent compared with the N50.1 billion reported in Q1 2023.
The group announced N730.3 billion gross earnings in Q1 2024, which was an increase of 181.4 per cent from N259.5 billion in Q1 2023.
Amid hike in Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), the financial institution declared N455 billion interest income in Q1 2024, a growth of 153.3 per cent from N179.6 billion in Q1 2023, while interest expenses closed Q1 2024 at N226.42 billion, representing 234.1per cent increase from N67.76 billion reported in Q1 2023.
On the backdrop of a double-digit inflation rate, operating expenses moved from N111.2 billion in Q1 2023 to N212.80 billion reported in Q1 2024.
Total assets from the balance sheet position stood at N21.58 trillion as of March 2024, which was a 27.4 per cent increase from the N16.94 trillion recorded in 2022.
As FBNHoldings declared N8.42 trillion Customer loans & advances (Net) as of March 2024 from N6.36 trillion in 2023, full financial year, its customer deposits stood at N13.27 trillion as of March 2024, an increase of 24.4 per cent from N10.66 trillion reported in 2023 financial year.
The Group Managing Director, FBNHoldings, Nnamdi Okonkwo in a statement said, “FBNHoldings’ strong start to the year reinforces the confidence in achieving targets and delivering sustained value for our shareholders. “Our commitment to optimising the Group’s earnings capacity and maximising operational efficiencies has again delivered outstanding results.
“Underpinned by strong revenue growth and improved operational efficiency, our key financial metrics have shown significant improvement. Remarkably, gross earnings grew 181.4per cent to N730.3 billion, while profit before tax increased by 325.2per cent to N238.5 billion while our total assets increased by 27.4per cent in three months to N21.6 trillion.”
He added that the Group remained focused on its strategic initiatives towards further improving profitability, enhancing excellence in performance and surpassing stakeholders’ expectations.
However, the shareholding structure of FBNHoldings showed, the Group Chairman, Mr. Femi Otedola direct and indirect stake in the Group stood at 2,517,282,140 as of March 2024 from 1,999,342,376 March 2023.
The stock price of FBNHoldings closed March 27, 2024 at N21.1 per share on the floor of the Exchange.
In examining the realm of governance and public resource management, one would agree that, accountability is a sacrosanct principle that serves as the bedrock of trust between the government and its citizens. However, in Rivers State, Nigeria, this fundamental principle appears to be under assault, as a plethora of allegations ranging from misconduct to malfeasance swirl around the former governor, Mr. Wike. The people of Rivers State have endured immense suffering under Wike’s leadership, and it is now incumbent upon Governor Sim Fubara to take swift and decisive action to investigate these egregious wrongdoings, hold perpetrators accountable, and deliver long-overdue justice to the victims. By doing so, Governor Fubara can begin to restore the trust that has been eroded and ensure that the principles of accountability and good governance are upheld in Rivers State.
The burning question on many minds is, “When will Governor Fubara probe Wike?”
The tenure of Mr. Wike as the governor of Rivers State was marked by a plethora of controversies and allegations of corruption, which have left an indelible stain on his legacy. One of the most egregious accusations leveled against him is the perpetration of inflated contracts, wherein contracts awarded during his tenure were allegedly grossly overpriced, resulting in a significant depletion of the state’s resources. If these allegations are substantiated, it would constitute a brazen betrayal of public trust, a flagrant violation of the principles of transparency and accountability, and a egregious abuse of power.
Moreover, Mr. Wike stands accused of leaving the state in a financially precarious situation, wherein the state’s debt profile skyrocketed under his leadership, plunging the state into a financial crisis. This has had a devastating impact on the state’s ability to fund critical infrastructure and social services, thereby exacerbating the suffering of the citizens of Rivers State and imperiling their welfare.
Among the multitude of allegations levied against Mr. Wike, the most heinous and egregious is the forceful expropriation of private property, a transgression that has left a trail of disillusionment and suffering in its wake. According to a report, the women of the Oginigba community in Rivers State, driven by desperation and a sense of injustice, staged a protest against the brazen seizure of their ancestral land, perpetrated by Mr. Wike through the instrumentality of the state government machinery. This egregious act, if proven, constitutes a flagrant violation of the rights of these women, a gross abuse of power, and a stark testament to Wike’s disdain for the rule of law and the fundamental rights of citizens. The forced takeover of private land, a blatant manifestation of Wike’s authoritarian proclivities, has left an indelible stain on his legacy, and its repercussions continue to reverberate, causing untold suffering and hardship for the affected individuals.
The evidence of Wike’s plundering of Rivers State’s wealth is manifest in his extensive portfolio of properties, including the Hypercity building in Ikoku, a multifaceted complex on Rumuomasi by old Aba road, which serves as a hub for esteemed brands like SHOPRITE, Cinema film House, Electronica, and others, as well as the Signature hotel in G.R.A, a former residence on William Jumbo street in Old GRA, Trans Amadi by BEWAC, AFP Plaza by Stadium, site for hospital by stadium road, and his current residence by Ada George. All these assets in Port Harcourt alone.
These few properties in Port Harcourt, traceable to Mr. Wike, are merely the tip of the iceberg. It is mind-boggling to contemplate the numerous properties scattered across various cities in Rivers State, not to mention the staggering hundreds of properties spread across different states in Nigeria, all allegedly linked to Mr. Wike’s name. The putrid stench of corruption wafting from his property acquisitions and takeovers demands a thorough investigation by the EFCC. Meanwhile, the people of Rivers State were languishing in excruciating poverty, while Wike was shamelessly amassing a vast empire of properties through illicit means, all at the expense of the state’s financial well-being.
In light of these grave allegations, it is absolutely essential that Governor Fubara takes swift and decisive action to investigate Mr. Wike’s tenure, ensuring a thorough and transparent probe that uncovers the truth behind the myriad accusations. The citizens of Rivers State have a rightful expectation to be informed about the veracity of these allegations, and to witness the delivery of justice and the recovery of misappropriated public resources, should these allegations be substantiated.
The consequences of Wike’s alleged malfeasance are nothing short of catastrophic, leaving the state mired in debt and stifling its development. The egregious inflation of contracts has resulted in a egregious depletion of the state’s resources, while the forceful takeover of private property has wreaked havoc on countless lives and livelihoods. Therefore, Governor Fubara must demonstrate unwavering resolve in reversing this damage, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and brought to book, thereby restoring the trust and confidence of the citizens in the government.
Governor Fubara has a unique and auspicious opportunity to tangibly demonstrate his unwavering commitment to the principles of accountability, good governance, and the rule of law. By initiating a comprehensive and exhaustive investigation, he can ensure that Mr. Wike is held accountable for his alleged actions, thereby sending a powerful message that no individual is above the law. This probe, if conducted in a fair, transparent, and unbiased manner, will not only restore public trust and confidence in the government but also serve as a testament to Governor Fubara’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of governance. Furthermore, the investigation provides a chance to recover misappropriated funds and assets, which can then be reinvested in the development and progress of Rivers State.
However, it is crucial that this probe adheres to the highest standards of fairness, transparency, and due process, avoiding any semblance of a witch-hunt or political vendetta. Instead, it must be guided by an unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the rule of law, thereby ensuring its credibility, legitimacy, and ultimate success.
The investigation into Wike’s alleged malfeasance is egregiously belated, and Governor Fubara’s prompt intervention is imperative to rectify this egregious oversight. The necessity for a thorough probe cannot be overstated, as it is indispensable for uncovering the truth, holding accountable those who have perpetrated wrongdoing, and restoring the public’s faith in the government. The people of Rivers State deserve a leadership that is transparent, accountable, and prioritizes their well-being and the development of the state, and Governor Fubara must demonstrate his commitment to these principles by initiating a comprehensive investigation into Wike’s tenure.
The gravity of the allegations against the former governor necessitates swift action, and the people of Rivers State demand nothing less than a thorough and transparent investigation that culminates in justice being served. By fulfilling this duty, Governor Fubara will not only be upholding the sacrosanct principle of accountability but also restoring the people’s trust in the government, thereby paving the way for a brighter future for Rivers State.
It is solely through the conduit of a meticulous and uncompromising investigation that the truth can be unearthed, justice can be administered, and the trajectory towards a future marked by prosperity and equity for the people of Rivers State can be firmly established. This imperative underscores the urgent need for a thorough probe into Mr. Wike’s tenure, rendering the present moment the most opportune and propitious time to initiate such an inquiry, thereby ensuring that the quest for accountability, truth, and justice is not perpetually relegated to the realm of the forgotten, but rather assumes its rightful position at the forefront of the state’s agenda.
Strike actions have always been a tool deployed by organised labour in Nigeria to either get the attention of the governments or force the latter to do its bidding since time immemorial.
So it did not come as a shock when the Nigeria Labour Congress, under the leadership of Comrade Joe Ajaero and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), mobilised their members for the nationwide industrial action that will commence tomorrow.
And the bone of contention? The two apex labour groups, which expressed disappointment with the government’s handling of the negotiation on the new minimum wage, had declared an indefinite nationwide industrial action effective from Monday, 3 June 2024.
The organised labour is demanding better welfare for its members, specifically asking for the sum of N494,000 as minimum wage due to the economic challenges being faced by many Nigerians.
While it is my belief that the demand is justified, I will appeal to organised labour to tread with caution as the timing is not only wrong but will spell doom for the future of many youths in the country.
As we speak, the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is ongoing and such strike action at this moment will not only cripple movements, it will jeopardise the emotional stability of the students, whose future is on the line.
Many parents, guardians and those who have children in schools are already anxious and smitten by fear over what this action portends not only for their children but for their already stressed pockets.
The leadership of the apex labour groups needs to keep in mind that WASSCE is not a Nigerian examination and, therefore, cannot be suspended or paused for Nigeria to straighten out its internal problems.
Already, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has said the indefinite strike announced by labour unions would not affect the conduct of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
In an internal memo addressed to the principals of schools participating in the 2024 WASSCE, WAEC said the conduct of the internal examination continues irrespective of the strike.
“The attention of Management has been drawn to a notice of the commencement of an indefinite strike by NLC and TUC effective Monday, 3 June 2024. Please be formally informed that the conduct of WASSCE SC 2024 goes on as scheduled,” the examination board said in a statement signed by the Ekiti Branch Controller for WAEC National Office, identified as T. A. Lawson.
Tell me, how do we expect the students and invigilators to move and access their examination centres when the economy is shut down? How do we even expect them to be in the right state of mind if they manage to access their examination centres?
If a group like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) was magnanimous enough in allowing the students writing their WASSCE to do so on a day set aside by the secessionist group to honour those who died during the Civil War between 6 July 1967 and 15 January 1970, then I wonder why the union leaders cannot do the same.
Apologise to Kano Citizens, Nigerians Now – Group Tells Gov Abba Yusuf
The Concerned Citizens of Kano State have urged Governor Abba Yusuf to issue an immediate apology for his actions that have led to the ongoing Kano Emirates crisis.
The group said the Governor has not only disrespected the rich cultural heritage of Kano State but has also shown a blatant disregard for the judiciary and the rule of law.
A statement signed by its President, Comrade Mustapha Aliyu, said by unilaterally altering the centuries-old Kano Emirates structure, Governor Yusuf has caused harm to the people of Kano, undermined the state’s cultural identity, and set a dangerous precedent for anarchy in Nigeria.
According to Aliyu, his actions have sown discord, fueled division, and threatened the peace and stability of the state and the entire nation hence he must apologise to Nigerians.
“We the Concerned Citizens of Kano State, are issuing this press statement to express our deep disappointment, shock, and outrage over the recent actions of Governor Abba Yusuf, who has brazenly disregarded the rule of law and disrespected the judiciary by reinstating Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as Emir of Kano and dissolving the Kano Emirates, despite a valid court ruling restraining him from doing so,” the statement said.
“This reckless and authoritarian decision has far-reaching implications that threaten the very fabric of our democracy, the stability of our state, and the well-being of our people. By ignoring the court order, Governor Abba Yusuf has:
“Undermined the authority and independence of the judiciary, which is a cornerstone of our democracy. This sets a dangerous precedent, where the executive arm of government can disregard court orders and impose its will on the people.
“Disrespected the rights and dignity of the people of Kano State, who have been subjected to unnecessary tension and division. The people of Kano State have a right to peaceful coexistence, and Governor Abba Yusuf’s actions have denied them that right.
“Created a crisis of confidence in the government, which has lost the trust and confidence of the people. This is a clear indication of a government that is out of touch with the people and is more interested in serving the interests of a select few.
“Damaged the reputation and image of Kano State, both nationally and internationally. The actions of Governor Abba Yusuf have brought shame and disrepute to our state, and we are now seen as a state that disregards the rule of law and disrespects the judiciary.
“Encouraged impunity and lawlessness, which can lead to a breakdown of law and order in the state. When a government disregards the law, it sets a bad example for its citizens, and this can lead to chaos and anarchy.”
The group, therefore, urged Governor Yusuf to take immediate action to address this crisis by issuing a public apology to the people of Kano State and Nigerians at large for his actions, which have brought shame and disrepute to our state.
“He must also respect the court ruling and allow the legal process to run its course,” the statement added. “Take concrete steps to resolve the crisis in a fair, just, and inclusive manner, respecting the rights and dignity of all parties involved. He must ensure the protection of lives and properties, and promote peaceful coexistence among all citizens of Kano State.
“We believe that an apology and a commitment to respect the rule of law will go a long way in healing the wounds and restoring trust and confidence in the government. We call on the people of Kano State and Nigerians at large to remain calm and peaceful and to continue to demand that their government respects the rule of law and upholds the dignity of the people.”
One Year In Office: Nigerians in Diaspora Laud Gov Fubara’s Leadership Style
…admonishes detractors to give Rivers State time to heal
The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe, ANPE, has praised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara‘s leadership style, describing him as an asset to Nigeria’s democracy.
The group emphasised that Governor Fubara’s approach to politics is still relatively rare in Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr Reginald Agamah, ANPE noted that despite distractions from disgruntled politicians in the state, Governor Fubara’s achievements in just one year in office are far-reaching and worthy of commendations.
Dr Agamah lauded Governor Fubara for resisting the urge to use the distractions he faced from state actors as an excuse not to perform.
He admonished detractors to give Rivers State time to heal and be better positioned for development.
“The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe, ANPE, commend Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for his unique approach to governance,” the statement said. We commend the Governor for prioritising the interest of Rivers people over politics.
“Governor Fubara’s brand of politics is still relatively rare in Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape, resembling the egalitarianism of Abraham Lincoln. His personal political philosophy is worthy of emulation.
“Without sounding immodest and backed by empirical evidence, Governor Sim Fubara stands tall today amongst his colleagues as a peerless brand of humility, integrity, prudence, love for the people, honesty of purpose, candour, and a patriotic fervour still uncommon in Nigerian effervescent political horizon.
“Little wonder why he has garnered attention from both political and non-political circles due to his distinctive style of politicking. Governor Fubara has been rightly crowned the ‘Governor of the Year’ in his first year in office as a first-termer by several national and international publications, professional bodies, civil society organisations et al.
“We are very happy and want to extend our appreciation to Governor Sim, as he is fondly called by the people, for not letting Rivers people down despite the array of distractions he is facing in office. We commend him for not drowning in the pool of antics of detractors and saboteurs. He has demonstrated a strong character and unparalleled sagacity. He has no doubt presented himself as an asset to Nigeria’s democracy. His steadfastness is not only a win for Rivers people but also a victory for Nigeria’s democracy, especially against godfatherism.
“We commend the Governor for not allowing detractors to deter him from delivering good governance to Rivers people. No one would have thought that an embattled Governor would embark on an ambitious project like the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, which Fubara’s administration flagged off on 17 July 2023; the largest infrastructure project by a State Government in Nigeria. His achievements across critical sectors such as health, education, agriculture, human capital development, and security are quite commendable. Governor Fubara’s revitalization efforts are self-evident and realistic.
“We, therefore, admonish detractors to give Rivers State time to heal. The state is still bleeding from the destabilization orchestrated by disgruntled politicians and saboteurs.
“The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe commend Rivers people for their unwavering support for their beloved Governor Sim. They recognize his immense potential, sagacity, and visionary leadership, supported by undeniable evidence. We share their sentiments wholeheartedly. With Sim Fubara, one can only anticipate quality and unparalleled governance.
“We also commend the peace-loving Governor Fubara for his leadership instinct which is responsible for the relative peace in the state. It is on record that the Governor is sustaining the peace in the State by complying with the Rivers Peace Accord signed at the behest of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and his allies disregarding the 8-point agreement. This not only shows that Fubara is committed to lasting peace in the state but also demonstrates that he is, indeed a man of integrity. Governor Fubara is the kind of leader Nigerians long for.”
