US opts to buy Nigeria’s crude, says Kachikwu

•Kachikwu

Minister of State for Petroleum Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachukwu has raised Nigerians’ hope about the dwindling oil revenue, with the news that the United States will now buy some crude from Nigeria.
“Post the President’s visit, there has been an overture from them to say they want to buy limited quantity of Nigerian oil to support the market. We are still ongoing on that,” he said.
Kachikwu allayed fears over the return of the U.S. to oil export, stressing that the country’s sale of oil does not foreclose its tendency to buy crude at the same time.
According to him, the volume of oil that the US intends to do is little and it is for her internal consumption.
Kachikwu, who spoke with reporters at the Kaduna airport after his inspection of the Kaduna Refinery and Petrochemical Company (KRPC) in Kaduna State, said the U.S. is still importing oil to build up her reserves.

He said: “The fact of U.S. being back into the sales  market obviously  what you find is that  the volume of export U.S. intends to do is very minimal for a lot of internal consumption.
“And strategically they are still reaching out to buy certain barrels and, in fact, they are hoping to buy a couple of Nigerian barrels. So the strategic reserve is key for them to make a very strong strategic reserve. They have also produced more than they have never done in their history now .
“From the financial point of view they sometimes sell and still buy, and they do that with gold, they do that with cotton, they do it with a lot of commodities.  The whole idea is that if oil prices are cheaper, they buy, and use that to fill  their reserves.”
According to Kachikwu, the United States has never completely exited the importation of Nigeria’s crude since three major oil companies – Cheveron, Exxonmobil and one other  – still take their 40% share to their refineries.
What the United States stopped was her importation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) share of the crude, the minister said.
Kachikwu, who is also the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the NNPC said the two countries were discussing the purchase of the corporation’s share of Nigeria’s crude.
He said: “Three of the oil companies are U.S. At least I can say Exxonmobil , I can say Cheveron, but you realise that 40% of their production goes into the U.S., so when you hear zero importation of Nigerian oil it is not really stopped . It is not  true because they take their shares to their refineries.
“What we are talking about is the NNPC portion of the crude which is 60% and that is the element we are talking about – whether or not they will continue to buy.”
Analysing the nature of the Nigeria/US oil market relations, the minister said: “ You also know that they are diversifying to the Shale in terms of the sale of products. Now you take 900,000 from a million barrels, out of that 455 is local intervention. So what you are talking of is about 450, 000 barrels. It is not enough in terms of the NNPC portion.”
Asked what the Ministry of Petroleum Resources was doing to ensure that the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) is better equipped to monitor oil production in view of the impression that the DPR has no knowledge of the volume of oil that the International Oil Companies (IOCs) produce at the well head, the minister said it was false.
He insisted that the DPR could ascertain the level of production, stressing that it was the inspection that brought about the volume of production that the Federal Government used for its budget.
Kachikwu said: “That is not true. I think the DPR knows the quantity of oil we produce. We do know the volume of oil we produce and that is the number we use for budgeting. I can tell you, for example, we are doing 1.89million barrels per day. I can tell you we are targeting 2.2million barrels per day next year. There are measurement indexes for that.”
The minister said it takes an average of three to five years to build a new refinery at $2billion to $2.5billion which is too huge for government to afford.
“ It takes investment of $2billion  and $2.5billion and those are not monies that we can afford,” he said, adding: “What we are encouraging people to do is to unbundle refineries that are all over the world, which are for economic reasons being de-assembled and bring them here and set them up and run them”.
This, said Kachikwu, would prune the cost of refineries for investors, especially when they are sharing the same premises, the same power source, because power is a key element of that cost.
He maintained that adoption of this method of construction of a fairly used refinery could be take about 18 months to build and reduce the cost to below one billion dollar and bring about quicker return on investment.

N31b loot: Jonathan’s camp to seek talks with Buhari

Suspects opt to refund cash for freedom
North’s leaders may intervene
President Muhammadu Buhari and his predecessor, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, may soon meet over the mind- boggling revelations from the arms cash probe.
Former National Security Adviser (NSA) Sambo Dasuki, who is standing trial for alleged misapplication and fraudulent disbursement of over N31b meant for purchase of arms, has alleged in his statement to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that all his disbursements were approved by the ex-President.
Sources said some associates of Dr. Jonathan were arranging a private meeting between the leaders to enable Jonathan “straighten out” some things with the President.

The ex-President is believed to be desirous of addressing some of the allegations  in confidence because he is not keen on speaking publicly “so as not to heat up the polity”.
It was also gathered that the ex-President’s camp noted that some of the N31billion cash was sourced from “security votes and budget for Special Services”.
“Jonathan will prefer a private audience with the President rather than taking up issues with the suspects in public. Some of the expenditures have grave security implications as they involve some neighbouring countries,” a source said, adding:
“As a statesman, Jonathan cannot just open up at all. For example, there is a unit where the overhead of past Presidents and Heads of State was taken care of. Some of the funds disbursed by the office had to do with these funds. If Jonathan speaks, will he not rubbish these past leaders?
“Some Presidents from some countries sought financial assistance from ex-President Goodluck Jonathan. Do you expect the former leader to issue a statement on such a sensitive request?”
The source spoke of how Nigeria bought vehicles and some equipment for some countries from the funds, adding that diplomatic etiquette does not allow such a disclosure.
“At a point, there was negotiation to end Boko Haram insurgency. This type of deal cannot be put in the public domain”, he said, pleading not to be named because he is not permitted to talk to the media.
Also yesterday, it was learnt that some of the suspects facing trial may opt  to return looted funds and forfeit some assets in exchange for freedom or light sentences.
It was also learnt that some leaders of the North may prevail on President Buhari for soft-landing for some of the suspects.
About N31billion has been traced to more than nine suspects facing trial in Abuja courts.
Some of the suspects, according to sources close to the investigations, are already overwhelmed by the evidence against them and would prefer the plea bargain option.
The suspects are said to have volunteered to return the funds traced to them and their cronies through phoney companies.
They are also said to be considering the plea bargain option to save time and get lighter jail terms where conviction becomes necessary.
The names of the suspects seeking plea bargain were kept under wraps last night, but only a former Minister of State for Finance, Alhaji Bashir Yuguda, has indicated his willingness to recover N600million out of the over N1billion traced to him.
A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “Despite the fact that most of the suspects pleaded not guilty, some of them have been considering plea bargain to get off the hook.
“Those affected have told the EFCC in confidence that they want to return looted funds and assets for outright state pardon or lighter jail terms.
“These few ones seeking plea bargain said they ought to regain freedom to retrieve funds where they are stashed.
“In fact, one of the suspects said having admitted that he had slush funds, there was nothing to prove in court again.”
Last night, counsel to one of the key suspects said: “I think there is a plea bargain offer by some suspects. Some lawyers appearing in the cases have been meeting to enable the nation to get some of these funds back.
“These suspects would, however, prefer to return funds and assets to the EFCC for outright pardon.
“As I am talking to you, we have not reached any conclusion on the terms of plea bargain to be presented to the EFCC, which is prosecuting all the suspects.”
Some elders, led by a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation are said to be pushing for soft landing for some of those on trial.
The elders are said to be worried that most of the suspects are from the North.
It was learnt that the elders had been under pressure to save these key Northern figures on trial.
But some of the elders, who are unsure of President Buhari’s reaction, were said to have met with presidential confidants.
There were plans last night for the elders to have an audience with the President.
Another source said: “These elders want a plea bargain alternative, which will lead to the surrendering of all looted funds by the suspects.
“Thereafter, an amicable political solution will be reached to allow the suspects to go home and sin no more. Alternatively, those with bad cases can serve lighter jail terms.”

 

 

 

 

Presidency, last night, stated categorically that president Mohammadu Buhari never collected any monetary compensation from the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan or any of its officials in the aftermath of the Boko haram attack on him in Kaduna last year.

 

The denial followed reports making the rounds that president was settled with $300,000 and 5 Sports Utility Vehicles, SUVs after the attacks.

 

The reports however came on the heels of a high profile investigation into the activities of the former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) in the purchase of military hardwares.

 

Dasuki had threatened to reveal the involvement of former Nigerian Leaders who shared in the “loot”.

 

But in a swift reaction to the disturbing development, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina on Tuesday, in a statement refuted the claims.

 

 

 

 

He however accepted that only two jeeps were given to the president.

 

According to him, the jeeps were only two, one armored and one not amoured.

 

Adesina added that the SUVs were statutory entitlement of president Buhari as a former Head of State.

 

He stated that the president could not have compromised his integrity by accepting monetary compensation from a discredited regime of president Jonathan.

 

The statement read in full: “Our attention has been drawn to reports making the rounds, especially on internet-based media, that President Muhammadu Buhari received $300,000.00 and up to five armoured SUVs from the Office of the National Security Adviser in the aftermath of the attack on his convoy in Kaduna last year.

 

“We unequivocally deny that President Buhari received $300,000.00 or any monetary compensation whatsoever from the Jonathan Presidency or any of its officials, in the aftermath of that attack, or at any other time since then.

 

“While it is true that one armoured SUV and one untreated SUV were sent to the President in the aftermath of the attack, the vehicles were in keeping with his entitlements as a former Head of State under the Remuneration of Former Presidents and Heads of State (And other Ancillary Matters) Decree of 1999.

 

“Section 3, Sub Section 1 of that Decree provides that three vehicles will be provided for former heads of state and replaced every four years.

 

“There was therefore nothing untoward, illegal or tending to corruption in former Head of State Buhari and Presidential aspirant, as he then was, receiving vehicles, to which he was statutorily entitled, from the Federal Government of Nigeria.

 

“President Buhari had in keeping with his austere, spartan and frugal disposition shunned most of his entitlements as a former Head of State, but was prevailed upon by his supporters to accept the two vehicles for his personal safety in the aftermath of the dastardly attempt to assassinate him.

 

“It is preposterous to think that the President will allow his acclaimed reputation of honesty and incorruptibility to be tarnished by accepting a questionable monetary compensation from a discredited regime.”

ALAMIEYESEIGHA ORDERS MASS VOTING FOR DICKSON, PREDICTS HIS VICTORY AT THE POLLS.
The First elected Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, in a video that has just surfaced and made available to the media ordered the mass voting of current Governor of the State, Seriake Dickson and pronounced his victory at the polls and his subsequent assumption of office on February 14, 2016.
In a charged message to Bayelsans, Chief Alamieyeseigha warned that the APC had no agenda for the Ijaw nation and reminded the people that the Ijaw nation has never been conquered and that it was time to guard their mandate and freedom jealousy.

The former Governor and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party commended Dickson for being a good product and affirmed the popular notion that there was no basis for comparing him with other contenders for the office of Governor of Bayelsa State.
"Dickson is a good product. There is no basis for comparison. We know all the characters. Some of them know they they will fail," assuring Governor Dickson that "come February 14, 2016, you will be sworn-in as Governor."
The Former Governor earlier called on all Ijaws to vote for Governor Seriake Dickson, whom he commended for his developmental strides and also the PDP, which he described as the adopted Party of the Ijaw people, vowing that the Ijaw people "...will not allow any other Party to infiltrate our rank and file".
Governor Dickson, popularly known as Ofuruma Pepe, The Great White Shark, is expected to be the first Governor of Bayelsa State to be returned for a second term in office since its creation, thus, breaking the jinx hindering sustainable development in the State and laying the ground work for enduring governance.

0:05/12:3

PDP Died After Losing Its Godmother, Godfather – Victor Umeh

Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Sir Victor Umeh, on Tuesday said the former ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has no moral ground to be crying over any form of injustice.

Umeh declared that the party was dead, having lost its god-mother and god-father.
He said on the contrary, the PDP, should bury its head in shame, just as he described the party’s 16 years administration as the worst in the history of Nigeria’s democracy.
Addressing journalists in Enugu, Umeh said “what PDP did to Nigeria in 16 years is the greatest disservice to democracy.”
It could be re-called that the Appeal Court had on Monday nullified Senator Uche Ekwunife’s election on the account of Umeh’s petition. The court ordered a re-run within 90 days.
The APGA chieftain maintained that even though he won the election, the PDP manipulated the process with impunity and used the Independent National Electoral Commission to declare Ekwunife the winner.
While mocking the PDP over its complaints on the outcome of the Kogi and Bayelsa governorship polls, Umeh said, “even though the All Progressives Congress, APC, has not been brutal as they were, the PDP members are now weeping.
“PDP promoted electoral banditry in this country; so, I am surprised that they are now crying wolf. They are made up of hypocrites; the PDP’s time has just ended; it is a political party that should be dismantled.
“I am happy that they present corruption is cleaning the rot; the PDP promoted corruption; why are they afraid? Look at the revelations coming now; PDP should bury its head in shame. PDP should be banned from speaking because Nigerians hold them in great contempt for the way they desecrated democracy.”
He expressed confidence that he would win the rerun, as according to him, “the number of people who had reached me ever since this judgement was delivered is overwhelming. I have used it to gauge the mood of the people; they are so excited.
“Besides, we are very hopeful this time that the votes of the people will count; there will be no god-mother, god-father and the use of presidential might to suppress the will of the people.
“The PDP that has been using that has fallen from the federal power; the PDP is now like fish out of water.”
Umeh added that, “APC came with a posturing of change in Nigeria. I do not expect that they would want to muzzle the electoral process. APC has a moral burden not to repeat what the PDP did to opposition parties.”

BREAKING NEWS!!! Biafra: IPOB, MASSOB Declare Ceasefire on Protests; Issue Ultimatum to Buhari

BREAKING NEWS!!! Biafra: IPOB, MASSOB Declare Ceasefire on Protests; Issue Ultimatum to BuhariThe peaceful protests staged by members of Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, and Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, over the continued detention of the Director, Radio Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu and the demand for creation of Biafra state may be halted following the resolve of the two pro-Biafra groups to give Federal Government room for dialogue.
Protesters in the South-East and parts of South-South geo-political zones had vowed to continue demonstrations until they actualize Biafra, which prompted governors from the region, under the aegis of South-East Governors Forum, SEGF, to push for a dialogue to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu, among other issues of neglect and marginalzation of the people, at a meeting held at Enugu Government House.
Resolution

A joint resolution by Ugwuoke Ibem, National Secretary, MASSOB, and Emma Powerful, spokesman for IPOB, read: ”We have decided to halt our demonstration, protest to pave way for the much published dialogue on Nnamdi Kanu’s release. Our withdrawal from the major cities of Biafraland is not out of cowardice, but to prove maturity, professionalism as a decent self-determined group.
“We hereby issue an ultimatum to the Federal Government to prove their seriousness and sincerity on the much published dialogue on the release of Nnamdi Kanu. We shall continue with our non- violent self-determination on Biafra. MASSOB, IPOB will never relent or backside on the agitation for Biafra actualization. We condemn the stupidity, sabotage statement of Ralph Uwazuruike that IPOB,MASSOB introduced violence to Biafra struggle.
“Uwazuruike is a drowning man, who is living on yesterday shadow. Uwazuruike has lost grip on Biafra issues because of his deviation, compromise, open romance with Nigeria Government which has grossly affected his personality. We warn Uwazuruike and his group to stop dragging MASSOB,IPOB into a shameless, naked dance of visionless, missionless, blind existence.”

FG charges Dokpesi with money laundering

Chief Raymond Dokpesi

The Federal Government Tuesday filed charges against businessman and media proprietor, Raymond Dokpesi before the Federal high Court, Abuja in relation to his alleged receipt of about N2.1billion in the from the last administration from funds meant for the purchase of arms.
The Nation learnt that filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has six counts. It is marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/380/2015.
Dokpesi is charged along with his company – Daar Holding and Investment Limited.
They are accused of violating the Money Laundering Act, the EFCC Act and the Public Procurement Act. The charge is yet to be assigned to any judge for hearing.
Dokpesi is the second person to be charged among some highly placed Nigerians accused of involvement in the mismanagement funds meant for the purchase of military wares under the Goodluck Jonathan administration.

Already, a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Mohammed Dasuki is being tried before the Federal High Court, Abuja for illegal possession of firearms and money laundering.
Dokpsi, who is currently on bail from the EFCC, was last Friday ordered to be produced by Justice Gabriel Kolawole (also of the Federal High Court, Abuja)
The order followed an ex-parte application by Dokpesi, who claimed to have been unlawfully detained beyond 48 hours by the EFCC.
The judge, who heard Dokpesi’s lawyer, Mike Ozekhome (SAN) in chambers, ordered the EFCC to produce Dokpesi before his court on the next hearing date ofDecember 14.
Ozekhome, who told journalists what happened in the judge’s chambers, said the judge also ordered the EFCC to show cause why he should not grant Dokpesi’s prayer for unconditional or conditional bail.
Dokpesi had, in the application, prayed for an order compelling the respondent to produce the applicant who is presently in its custody or any other place of detention before this court on the date this application comes up for hearing.
He also sought an order admitting the applicant to bail on self recognisance or on such favourable and liberal terms as this court may deem fit to make in the circumstances of this case, pending the formal arraignment of the applicant before a court of law.
He hinged his prayers on the ground that no formal charge has been brought against him, over 48 hours after his detention.
The applicant said he went to honour a verbal invitation from officials of the EFCC on December 1 and had been detained since then after subjecting him to hours of “unprepared interrogation.”
He argued that the offences alleged against him “are ordinarily bailable.”
He promised not to jump bail, not to interfere with witnesses or the course of justice if any formal charge was filed against him.
Dokpesi said, with his social status, the court could grant him bail on liberal terms. Or on self recognisance as he has no criminal antecedents or record.
He promised to attend court if eventually he is formally arraigned.
In a supporting affidavit, the applicant said he was arrested over his inability to honour an invitation by the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) inviting Daar Investment and Holding Limited (an arm of Daar Communications Ltd) “for discussion on the supply and services rendered to the Office of the NSA.”
He stated that while he was yet to perfect the bail granted him by the EFCC “on the most onerous,” it went before a Magistrate’s Court to procure an order to legitimise and further detain him.

Bayelsa: Nigeria under Buhari is becoming a shame – Fayose

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has raised the alarm that Nigeria under President Mohammadu Buhari was fast becoming a shame, describing the failed attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate the Bayelsa State governorship election as clear invitation to anarchy.
The governor, who said it was shameful that the two elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under Buhari’s kinsman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu were inconclusive, called on all well-meaning Nigerians and the international community to rise up in condemnation of the APC government’s plot to destroy democracy in the country.

Speaking through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose who said everything under Buhari was becoming inconclusive, added that; “If in three days, INEC could not conduct credible election in Bayelsa State of just eight local governments, one wonders what will happen during the general elections in 2019. The simple reality is that INEC under this Buhari’s kinsman, Prof Yakubu, who is fast becoming the classical example of incompetence cannot guarantee free and fair elections in this country.”
He saluted the courage of the people of Bayelsa State, describing them as “worthy heroes of democracy that stood their ground against agents of darkness that were prepared to short-change them by imposing a governor they do not want on them.”
Governor Fayose also congratulated the Bayelsa State Governor and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Seriake Dickson for having the people of Bayelsa behind him, adding that “the people of Bayelsa have shown that their power is more than that of the Abuja political oppressors.”
He urged the governor and Bayelsa people not to lose their guard, saying; “Now that they have failed in their bid to use one local government to rig themselves to power, they will surely go back to their evil drawing board to plan fresh assaults.
“Therefore, Bayelsa people must henceforth sleep with their two eyes opened because the APC thieves come not only to steal, but to kill and that can be seen in the way and manner they murdered over 20 people just because they wanted power at all cost.”
While warning on the consequences of destruction of the legacy of free, fair and credible electoral process bequeathed on Nigeria by Dr Goodluck Jonathan, Governor Fayose said; “Nigerians, especially we in Ekiti State are already taking a cue from the Kogi and Bayelsa States experience and are getting prepared for future elections.”

Senator Kashamu hails Court of Appeal’s verdict

The Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Prince Buruji Kashamu, has hailed today’s judgment of the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The appellate court this Monday upturned the verdict of the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal  in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, which had on the 9th of October, 2015, set aside Kashamu’s declaration as winner of the 28th March, 2015 election into the Senate, and ordered rerun in 110 polling units in the Ogun East Senatorial District.

Senator Kashamu described the Court of Appeal’s decision as a victory for democracy and the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District.

Kashamu said: “I dedicate this victory to the Almighty Allah Sub ana wata’alla. I am happy at today’s verdict of the Court of Appeal. I am happy that justice has been served. I am particularly elated that the judiciary has once again risen to the occasion as the last hope of the common man. I am happy that despite the ills of our society, the judiciary still boasts of men and women of integrity and great courage who can resist filthy lucre and stand up for the truth and justice.

“I salute the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District who overwhelmingly gave me their mandate. I thank my party leaders, elders, associates and supporters, for standing by me all through the litigation. I thank my legal team, the media, clerics, the youths,  students, artisans, okada riders, market men and women, for their best wishes, prayers and support.

“I promised them quality representation. We have began the journey and there is no going back. We are committed to making a difference – in and out of politics.

“I wish to appeal to my younger brother and friend, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, not to see himself as my opponent. Rather, he should join hands with me to take our senatorial district to greater heights. There is no victor, no vanquished. It was an electoral contest and someone was bound to be elected. This time, it has pleased the Almighty Allah to use the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District to give me their mandate. Next time, it could go to anyone else.”

SUPER MINISTER FASHOLA UNVEILS ROADMAP; ACKNOWLEDGES GEJ ADMIN’S PROJECTS

Super Minister in charge of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, today addressed Nigerians and set out his plan for the key critical infrastructure ministries under his charge. This comes after Mr. fashola’s assessment of the ministries. The minister also acknowledge the various projects of the President Jonathan’s administration in Roads, Power and promises to make his utmost priority, the completion of the projects that are already at various levels of completion.
On Roads, Mr. Fashola said he will complete several road projects nearing completion and look into 200 pending road contracts as revitalizing them will bring about 20,000 Jobs. “Government priority is on refinancing the outstanding 200 road contracts before we bring in new contracts.”
“Our short term strategy will be to start with roads that have made some progress and can be quickly completed to facilitate connectivity. We will prioritize within this strategy by choosing first the roads that connect states together and from that grouping start with those that bear the heaviest traffic.
While speaking on Power he also said that all Government Agencies must pay up their power bills for sustainability. He also acknowledged that the TCN has about 142 ongoing Power Transmission projects which will be delivered in 2016. He promises to see to the execution of these projects. Fashola said: “We have more power generation than is been transmitted. The Transmission Company of Nigeria says it has 142 transmission projects on-going; 45 of them at 50% completion, 22 of them can be completed within a year. This will improve power.
He also said he will work closely with the Ministry of Petroleum, which he said was constructing new pipes to transport gas to power generation companies already. “This construction could be concluded in 15 months and would potentially add 2,000 megawatts to the current power situation.” He added that government would support local manufacturing of meters as an opportunity for entrepreneurship.
Fashola said his ministry will consider Solar Panels in its bid to provide power to Nigerian homes, he however said that the building designs need to be guided to embrace solar panels. He said: “We need to reconfigure our roots for us to be able to install solar panels.” He said this will also be consistent with Nigeria’s renewed commitment to cleaner energy in Paris; “Nigeria made pledges at the climate change conference COP 21 and we pledge to fulfil these agreements. However, it will be in accordance with national priorities,” he said.
In Housing, Fashola promises that his super ministry will construct 40 blocks of 12 flats per block, in each state of the federation. “This will give 480 flats per states. States will however, have to provide 5 to 10 hectares of land for the project.” he remarked.
Fashola also spoke on the massive Job loss that followed the elections of his Principal, President Buhari “As at May 2015, many contractors have stopped work because of payment, and many fathers and wives employed by them have been laid off as a result.”

Fayose praises Bayelsans for resisting Federal Government planned rigging of polls
* Says they’ve shown that their power is more than Abuja political oppressors
* Adds Nigeria under Buhari becoming a shame

Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State, has congratulated the Bayelsa State Governor and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Seriake Dickson for having the people of Bayelsa behind him during the state’s governorship election, which was on Monday, declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, even as he described Bayelsans as “worthy heroes of democracy, for showing that their power is more than that of the Abuja political oppressors.”
Fayose: Bayelsans are worthy heroes of democracy
Fayose alleged that the failed attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate the Bayelsa State governorship election was a clear invitation to anarchy, even as he said Nigeria under President Muhammadu Buhari was fast becoming a shame.
The governor, who said it was shameful that the two elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under Buhari’s kinsman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu were inconclusive, called on all well-meaning Nigerians and the international community to rise up in condemnation of the APC government’s plot to destroy democracy in the country.
Speaking through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose who said everything under Buhari was becoming inconclusive, added that “If in three days, INEC could not conduct credible election in Bayelsa State of just eight local governments, one wonders what will happen during the general elections in 2019. The simple reality is that INEC under this Buhari’s
kinsman, Prof Yakubu, who is fast becoming the classical example of incompetence cannot guarantee free and fair elections in this country.”

As I write this, one dollar goes for over ₦250! Whatever is required to salvage Nigeria's economy must be done. We as leaders can't refuse to sacrifice and expect minimum wage earners to do the sacrificing. That is unconscionable. Even if we reduce our salaries and wages, we would not die. Desperate times call for desperate remedies. We shouldn't be afraid to sacrifice because Nigeria's economy is struggling. Rather its because we do not sacrifice that it is struggling.

My name is Ben Murray-Bruce and I just want to make ‪#‎CommonSense‬!

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Ihedioha blasts Imo govt over N600 million Christmas decorations

The former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha has expressed shock over media reports that the Imo State Government had set aside over N600 million for the decoration of streets in Owerri, ahead of the Christmas celebration.
Ihedioha queried, “Why at this critical period when the citizens are passing through untold hardship arising from over 20 months of unpaid salary arrears and pensions, owed to workers in the state?”
A statement by his media aide, Mr. Chibuike Onyekwu, Ihedioha said that, “despite prevailing widespread disenchantment being expressed by citizens who have recently called for his immediate impeachment over the alarming rate of hunger and insecurity occasioned by the inept handling of issues of governance and unrepentant deceit so far exhibited by the Okorocha administration, the governor has refused to repent or address such concerns and other critical issues”.
Ihedioha further said that “preparations for Christmas celebration are no doubt a tradition for Christians all over the world but it is ridiculous and, indeed, smacks of insensitivity for this government to spend over N600 million on decorations when families can no longer afford their meals and basic needs as a result of non-payment of salaries, pensions and other entitlements.”

“It worries every right thinking Imolite that Governor Rochas Okorocha has refused to constitute his cabinet six months after election. There is no local government administration. There is no functional ministry, department or agency in the state. The Governor has embarked on several trips abroad to woo non-existent investors with a view to actualising his failed promises of aggressive industrialisation and employment of youths.
“Even more worrisome are reports in the media, alleging the theft of a part of the bailout funds from his son-in-law’s residence in Owerri. These reports are no doubt of great concern to all well-meaning Imo citizens, particularly when the government has refused to account for the huge sums that have accrued to the state including more than N26 billion bailout funds. This is in addition to the heart-breaking fact that the government has refused to probe the alleged disappearance of the fund.”

Biafra: Count me out, says Anyim

ABUJA – Immediate past Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim has denied sponsoring the ongoing pro-Biafra protests‎, saying any assertion to the contrary is the handiwork of detractors.
Anyim, a former Senate President who spoke through his Media Adviser, Sam Nwaobasi Thursday, added that he is neither under house arrest nor any form of investigation.
“We find it despicable that some people have taken it upon themselves to disparage, embarrass, ridicule, insult and indeed incite the public against Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, since he left office as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, through publication of bare-faced lies, fabrication of baseless stories and peddling of rumours on phantom issues that make no meaning or sense.
“We have resisted the temptation to join issues with these gangs of debased characters. However, there is a limit to what can be ignored”, Nwaobasi said.
According to him, “Sen. Anyim is not sponsoring, has not sponsored and will never sponsor any protest by any group against the Government or our dear country Nigeria”.
He added that Sen. Anyim is not under any investigation for any such allegation, warning those behind what he described as dastardly and mischievous acts to stop forthwith.
“They must bear in mind that those who rise up against an innocent person are only setting themselves up for a fatal fall”, he added.
An online media portal had reported how Anyim is currently under investigation for sponsoring activities of Radio Biafra as well as pro-Biafra protests.
The portal also added that the former SGF has been accused of taking huge sums from the coffers of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC while in office, which he now allegedly uses to fund the pro-Biafra agitation.

Today, we presented the following bills for their first readings at the Senate: the Word Security Watches Nationwide Bill by Senator Ben Murray-Bruce (Bayelsa East); the Sickle Cell Anaemia (Prevention, Control and Management) Bill by Senator Sam Egwu (Ebonyi North); the Unemployed Youths, Elderly and Indigent Sustainability Allowances Trust Fund Bill by Senator Ali Ndume (Senate Leader) and the Chartered Institute of Facilities Management of Nigeria Bill by Senator Baba Kaka Bashir Garbai (Borno Central).
We also considered the report of the Ad-hoc Committee on Works on the total collapse of Federal Roads in Nigeria by Senator Barnabas Gemade (Benue North East).

SENATOR BUKOLA SARAKI

FLASH: Former Sec'y to the FG, Pius Anyim under investigation over allegations that he is funding Pro-Biafra Radio Biafra protests.
Anyim is also accused of taking huge sums from NDDC while in office, monies that has reportedly funded pro-Biafra activities.

US Treasury names 2 Boko Haram leaders for sanctions

THE United States Treasury has singled out two leaders of Boko Haram Islamist group in Africa for economic sanctions, saying both are closely involved in deadly attacks in Nigeria.
The Treasury said Mohammed Nur, a Boko Haram commander who had represented the group in negotiations with the Nigerian government, was placed on its financial blacklist for his involvement in suicide bomb attacks, including one on the United Nations (UN) headquarters in Abuja in 2011.
“Nur is a senior Boko Haram member who supports Boko Haram’s campaign of violence against the government of Nigeria,” the Treasury said.
The second Boko Haram figure placed on the sanctions list, according to the Treasury, is Mustapha Chad, a Chadian national who, in 2013, directed Boko Haram activities in Yobe State.
The sanctions, which seek to freeze assets of the individuals and lock them out of the global financial system, added to US designations of Boko Haram as an international terror group two years ago.
The Treasury pointed out that earlier this year, Boko Haram also pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadist group based in Syria and Iraq.
“From kidnapping schoolgirls to mass fatality terrorist attacks, Boko Haram represents a threat not just to innocents in Nigeria, but to all civilised society,” Treasury Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Adam Szubin, said in a statement

Dokpesi: Money I Received Was For Publicity And Media In Political Campaigns

Dokpesi explained to the EFCC officials that the N2.1 billion that he collected from the former NSA was payment for publicity and media political campaigns during the 2015 General Elections.

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Aleogho Dokpesi, Daar Communication (Ray Power and AIT) founder, has explained what transpired on Tuesday 1 December 2015 when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invited him.

Raymond Dokpesi, AIT Chairman
In a statement signed by the management of DAAR Communications Plc, he said that around 2.00pm that day, the Ag. Chairman of the EFCC, Alhaji Ibrahim Magu, through a phone call, invited him to the Commission.
On getting there, he was requested to, “shed more light on some payments that were made to him through the office of the erstwhile National Security Adviser to the former President, Malam Sambo Dasuki.”
Dokpesi explained to the EFCC officials that the N2.1 billion that he collected from the former NSA  was payment for  for publicity and media political campaigns during the 2015 General Elections.”
High Chief Aleogho Dokpesi “made his statement on the various media exposures and campaign transactions which were dutifully carried out based essentially on contractual obligations/relationship.”
The statement however did not explain how the office of the National Security Adviser became the cashier office for the payment of campaign expenses and the source of the money.
A special panel  and the EFCC are probing how trillions of naira budgeted for defence were spent in the last eight years. An interim report by the panel already reported phoney contracts in excess of $2 billion.

Fayose to Buhari : You are on a mission of vengeance using DSS and EFCC
Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State, has described Tuesday’s arrest of the immediate-past National Security Adviser (NSA), Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd) by men of the Department of State Services (DSS), as continuation of President Muhammadu Buhari’s regime of vengeance, saying “disobeying court order and later arresting and detaining the same person the court ordered to be allowed to travel abroad for medicare is the peak of dictatorship.”

Governor Fayose, who reiterated his support for the fight against corruption, maintained that it must be done within the ambit of the law and must not be used to seek vengeance.
He declared support for Dasuki’s demand for an open trial as against the federal government’s demand for a secret trial.
In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti, today, by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose said “after flagrantly disobeying court orders, whatever that is done or said by the Buhari-led government concerning Sambo Dasuki will appear vindictive and it remains to be seen how a government that refused to obey the court will now charge Dasuki to the same court.”
He called for caution on the information being giving by the federal government to the public on its anti-corruption, saying trying people in the media as being done by the federal government was dangerous to democracy and rule of law.
The governor said; “Again, is it the duty of the DSS to investigate fraud? If Dasuki committed fraud as being alleged, why not let the appropriate government agency handle his matter? Why first torturing him emotionally with the DSS siege on his house?
“My position is that, since the federal government said report of its panel indicted Dasuki, why arresting and detaining him? Why not charge him to court so that he can also accept guilt or defend himself?”

BURNING OF ONITSHA MOSQUE, NPF TO ARREST AND PROSECUTE PERSONS
Following ground swell protests at Ontisha, Anambra State and other states of the south-east geopolitical zone staged by members of the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, and the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, last Tuesday, calling on the Federal Government to release their detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, the two pro-Biafra groups, Wednesday, disassociated selves from acts of arson and violence that culminated in the razing down of Onitsha Central Mosque and burning of some vehicles.

This came as the Inspector General of Police,Solomon Arase, warned that the Nigerian Police Force, NPF, will henceforth, arrest and prosecute persons found to be engaged in the breakdown of law and order by way of protests,especially in the old eastern region.
It would recalled that over 40,000 members and sympathizers of MASSOB and IPOB, had last Tuesday,shut down commercial and business activities in the south-east geopolitical zone in an avowed stance for the creation of the sovereign State of Biafra hinged on perceived injustice,marginalization and neglect meted to the people of the region.
In a statement made available to newsmen by MASSOB Acting Leader, Uchenna Madu which reads in part,”the setting of Ontisha Central Mosque,vehicles ablaze and making of burning fires which depicts violence are not done by the members of IPOB or MASSOB under my leadership.
“This unwarranted acts of violence are perfected by hoodlums sponsored by agents of the Federal Government to create impression that non violence and peaceful pro-Biafra group have turned violent on our agitation for Biafra. Our oppressors are no longer comfortable. There is no evidence of terrorism in our protest. How can we now resort to violence now that we’re told that the presidency is about negotiating with leaders of pro-Biafra group?
“With today’s killing of our members and injuring many with bullet shots,we are no longer comfortable with the presidency’s move for dialogue. Federal Government move for dialogue is hypocritical and deceitful. Any Igbo group,organization and persons negotiating,meeting or dialoguing with the presidency on our behalf without our consent or mandate should stop now.
“MASSOB led by Uchenna Madu and IPOB led by Nnamdi Kanu have never mandated any person to negotiate for us. Even in this persecution,arrest,killings,clampdown,suppression against us by Nigeria Government,we shall continue and intensify our non violence agitation for Biafra. For Nigeria to release their Armed Forces against non violence,defenseless Biafra agitators shows their wickedness and the devilish mind of President Muhammad Buhari against our people.

 Obiano pleads for calm
, Governor Obiano today, appealed to the various groups of agitators protesting for the release of the founder of Radio Biafra, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, to maintain the peace in the state.
Obiano in a special address, said that he wouldn’t stand by and watch what had looked like a peaceful procession get out of hand.

“As your Governor and the Chief Security Officer of the state, I am compelled to act to avert any likely breakdown of law and order. In all situations, the preservation of human life comes first and I am determined to enforce that,” Governor Obiano declared.
He advised the members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Movement for Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and other aggrieved groups and individuals to “resist any attempt by hoodlums to take advantage of the situation and destabilize any part of Anambra State.”
The governor further warned all mischief makers who might want to take advantage of the peaceful demonstration to foment trouble to “keep off as we will not tolerate any breach of peace under any guise or pretence.”
He assured residents and visitors to the state that he was in touch with all the security agencies in the state and had their assurances that mischief makers would not be allowed to take advantage of the situation.
“I therefore wish to assure Ndi Anambra and all visitors to the state to go about their normal business peacefully as the security agencies are on top of the situation to preserve law and order,” he said

An Open Letter To President Buhari By An American Lawyer Bruce Fein, Asking Him To Make The Hallmark Of His Administration Justice, Not Retribution

United States Constitutional Lawyer and author Bruce Fein, wrote this open letter to President Buhari according to Huffington post, Read for yourselves and ponder over it!  

President Muhammadu Buhari

Aso Rock, Abuja Nigeria

Dear President Buhari:

When you visited the United States Institute of Peace last July, you pledged that you would be "fair, just and scrupulously follow due process and the rule of law, as enshrined in [the Nigerian] constitution" in prosecuting corruption.

Such loftiness is laudable. As the Bible instructs in Amos 5:24: "[L]et justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream."

But to be just, the law must be evenhanded. It cannot, in the manner of Russian President Vladimir Putin, be something that is given to punish your enemies and withheld to favor your friends. If so, the law becomes an instrument of injustice bearing earmarks of the wicked rather than the good.

In the United States, you declared a policy of "zero tolerance" against corruption. You solicited weapons and other assistance from the United States government based on that avowal. But were you sincere?

During your election campaign, you promised widespread amnesty, not zero tolerance. You elaborated: "Whoever that is indicted of corruption between 1999 to the time of swearing-in would be pardoned. I am going to draw a line, anybody who involved himself in corruption after I assume office, will face the music."

After you were inaugurated, however, you disowned your statement and declared you would prosecute past ministers or other officials for corruption or fraud. And then again you immediately hedged. You were reminded of your dubious past by former Major General and President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who succeeded your military dictatorship. He released this statement:

"On General Buhari, it is not in IBB's tradition to take up issues with his colleague former President. But for the purpose of record, we are conversant with General Buhari's so-called holier-than-thou attitude. He is a one-time Minister of Petroleum and we have good records of his tenure as minister. Secondly, he presided over the Petroleum Trust Fund, PTF, which records we also have.

We challenge him to come out with clean hands in those two portfolios he headed. Or we will help him to expose his records of performance during those periods. Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. General Buhari should be properly guided."

You then swiftly backed off your zero tolerance policy because you would have been its first casualty.

You opportunistically announced that zero tolerance would be narrowed to the predecessor administration of Goodluck Jonathan because to probe further would be "a waste of time." That conclusion seems preposterous. In 2012, the World Bank's ex-vice president for Africa, Oby Ezekwesili, estimated that a stupendous $400 billion in Nigerian oil revenues had been stolen or misspent since independence in 1960. The lion's share of that corruption spans far beyond the Jonathan administration.

Your zero tolerance policy seems to come with a squint to avoid seeing culpability in your political friends. A few examples are but the tip of the iceberg.

A Rivers State judicial commission of inquiry found that N53 billion disappeared from the Rivers State Reserve Fund under former governor Rotimi Amaechi. Former Lagos governor and head of your campaign finance team Babatunde Fashola was accused ofsquandering N78 million of government money to upgrade his personal website. The EFCC has ignored these corruption allegations, and you have given both promotions: the Ministry of Transport to Mr. Amaechi, and the Ministry of Power, Works, and Housing to Mr. Fashola.

In contrast, you have played judge, jury, and prosecutor in the newspapers to convict former PDP Petroleum Minister Diezani Alison-Madueke of corruption.

Is this evenhanded justice?

United States Supreme Court Justice Robert Jackson taught: "[T]here is no more effective practical guaranty against arbitrary and unreasonable government than to require that the principles of law which officials would impose upon a minority must be imposed generally. Conversely, nothing opens the door to arbitrary action so effectively as to allow those officials to pick and choose only a few to whom they will apply legislation and thus to escape the political retribution that might be visited upon them if larger numbers were affected."

To investigate or prosecute based on political affiliation or opinion also violates Articles 2 and 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is unworthy of a great nation like Nigeria.

Make the hallmark of your administration justice, not retribution, and you may live for the ages.

I am a United States citizen and lawyer. I have no political standing in Nigeria. Some might argue that my speaking about the administration of justice in Nigeria bespeaks impertinece. But you chose to vist the United States to solicit weapons and other assistance from my government--a government of the people, by the people, for the people. The United States government represents me. What the United States government does reflects on me. I thus have an interest in addressing the actions of foreign governments that receive United States government aid.

Sunshine is said to be the best of disinfectants.

Sincerely,

Bruce Fein

EFCC Arrests Former Daar Communications Chairman, Raymond Dokpesi

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, says it has arrested the former Chairman of Daar Communications, Chief Raymond Dokpesi.

He was picked up in Abuja at about noon on Tuesday and was accompanied to the office of the EFCC by his son Raymond Dokpesi Jnr., who is the current Chairman of Daar Communications.
The Head of Media in the EFCC, Wilson Uwujaren, told Channels Television that Chief Dokpesi was arrested in connection with money disbursed from the office of the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki.
He said that there was no explanation about what the money was meant for and it was pathetic that the office of the NSA was used as “a warehouse to dish out money to people”.
He added that very worrisome is that this hard-earned money is taken from the coffers of the country.
When contacted, Mr Mike Ozekhome (SAN), lawyer to Dokpesi said that it is a return to authoritarian regime as only last week Daar Communications Holdings, not Dokpesi, was invited by the EFCC to explain alleged contracts to the company from the office of the former National Security Adviser and that tax payments and other documents should be supplied to EFCC.
He said that as far he knew, no contract was gotten from the office of the NSA but that he sent a lawyer from his chamber, Barrister Justine Omogbemeh to accompany Dokpesi to the EFCC office.
“I do not regard this as an arrest. If you are invited by the EFCC that is not the same thing as an arrest. We got this information through a mere phone call. There is no warrant of arrest and as a well-respected obedient nationalist, Chief Dokpesi decided to go and answer the invitation,” he said.