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  • Labour Suspends Strike as FG’s Ditch Effort Works, Suspends Electricity Tariff Hike

    Labour Suspends Strike as FG’s Ditch Effort Works, Suspends Electricity Tariff Hike

    The organised labour has suspended its planned strike action and protests billed to hold on Monday, September 28, the Federal Government and Organised Labour announced in a joint communique.

    Labour backtracked on the nationwide strike following agreements reached with the Federal government after an emergency meeting, a ditch effort to avert a costly strike, held between representatives of labour unions and the government.

    The meeting, which as announced by the the Ministry of Labour and Productivity kicked off at about 8:30 pm on Sunday and spilled over till Monday morning had Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo; Minister of State for Power, Godwin Jeddy-Agba and Group Managing Director of the NNPC.

    According to the communiqué, read by the minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, after the meeting, disclosed that government agreed to suspend electricity tariff hike for two weeks pending when a committee set up would examine the justifications for the new policy in view of the need for the validation of the basis for the new cost-reflective tariff as a result of the conflicting information from the fields which appeared different from the data presented to justify the new policy by NERC.

    He, however, noted that total deregulation in the downstream sector remains, adding that palliatives would be offered to Nigerian workers to cushion the effects of burden.

    “After exhaustive deliberations on the issues raised by Labour Centres, the FGN stated that it has fashioned out palliatives that would ameliorate the sufferings that Nigerian workers may experience as a result of the cost-reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments and deregulation of the downstream sector of the Petroleum Industry.

    “The palliatives will be in the areas of transport, power, housing, agriculture and humanitarian support.
    After thorough debates and negotiations on various issues raised by all parties, the following resolutions were reached and mutually adopted:

    “The parties agreed to set up a Technical Committee comprising Ministries, Departments, Agencies, NLC and TUC, which will work for a duration of two (2) weeks effective Monday 28th September 2020, to examine:

    “The justifications for the new policy in view of the need for the validation of the basis for the new cost reflective tariff as a result of the conflicting information from the fields which appeared different from the data presented to justify the new policy by NERC;

    “Metering deployment, challenges, timeline for massive roll – out,” Ngige said while reading the communiqué.

    Not over Yet

    Reacting after the meeting, the President of Trade Union Congress, Quadri Olaleye, explained that the organised labour only suspended the planned strike action and protest for two weeks, not that it has called off the strike.

    He charged the federal government to fulfil all its promises as highlighted in the communiqué, saying it would not give any notification before any mass action if the promised are not fulfilled.

    Read more from the joint communique.

    JOINT COMMUNIQUE ON THE RESOLUTION OF TRADE DISPUTE BETWEEN THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NIGERIA (FGN) AND THE ORGANIZED LABOUR REPRESENTED BY THE NIGERIA LABOUR CONGRESS (NLC) AND THE TRADE UNION CONGRESS (TUC) HELD AT THE STATE HOUSE BANQUET HALL ON SUNDAY, 27TH SEPTEMBER 2020

    A Bipartite Meeting between the FGN and the two Labour Centres – Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC),
    Having been convened at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja to discuss emerging labour issues arising from recent cost – reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments and deregulation of the downstream sector of the Petroleum Industry,
    Recognizing the public outcry and protest over the recent Federal Government twin policies on Electricity Tariff Reform and full implementation of deregulation of the downstream sector of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry resulting in the planned nation-wide industrial action by Organised Labour,
    Bearing in mind the spiral and negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on world economy,
    Further bearing in mind that due to impact of COVID-19 pandemic the world is undergoing socio-economic transition which has affected price stability, sustainability of enterprises, employment, and other socio-economic indices,
    Acknowledging that the spiral and negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the global economy has given rise to the need for a new socio-economic order,
    Recognising the need to sustain enterprises for retention and creation of jobs as well as sustainable growth and development,
    Acknowledging the need for social concertation between the Federal Government and workers’ representatives, namely the two Labour Centres – The NLC and TUC,
    To aid in the dialogue and communication, the Federal Government side made presentations to show the state of economy and the drive behind the recent cost – reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments and deregulation of the downstream sector of the Petroleum Industry.
    Bipartite meeting to address and resolve the issues in dispute between the FG and Labour Centres were held on September 15, 24, and 27, 2020,

    After exhaustive deliberations on the issues raised by Labour Centres, the FGN stated that it has fashioned out palliatives that would ameliorate the sufferings that Nigerian workers may experience as a result of the cost – reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments and deregulation of the downstream sector of the Petroleum Industry. The palliatives will be in the areas of transport, power, housing, agriculture and humanitarian support.

    After thorough debates and negotiations on various issues raised by all parties, the following resolutions were reached and mutually adopted:

    ELECTRICITY TARIFF REFORMS

    The parties agreed to set up a Technical Committee comprising Ministries, Departments, Agencies, NLC and TUC, which will work for a duration of two (2) weeks effective Monday 28th September 2020, to examine: the justifications for the new policy in view of the need for the validation of the basis for the new cost reflective tariff as a result of the conflicting information from the fields which appeared different from the data presented to justify the new policy by NERC; metering deployment, challenges, timeline for massive roll – out.

    The Technical Committee membership is as follows:
    Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN – Hon. Minister of State Labour & Employment – Chairman
    Mr Godwin Jedy-Agba – Hon. Minister of State Power – Member
    Prof. James Momoh – Chairman National Electricity Regulatory Commission – Member Engr. Ahmad Rufai Zakari – SA to Mr. President on Infrastructure – Member/Secretary
    Dr. Onoho’Omhen Ebhohimhen – Member (NLC)
    Comrade Joe Ajaero – Member (NLC)
    Comrade Chris Okonkwo – Member (TUC)1no. Representative of DISCOS – Member

    The Terms of Reference (ToR) are as follows:

    To examine the justification for the new policy on cost – reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments.

    To look at the different Electricity Distribution Company (DISCOs) and their different electricity tariff vis-à-vis NERC order and mandate.

    Examine and advise Government on the issues that have hindered the deployment of the six million meters.
    To look into the NERC Act under review with a view to expanding its representation to include organized labour.

    The Technical sub – committee is to submit its report within two (2) weeks. During the two weeks, the DISCOs shall suspend the application of the cost – reflective Electricity Tariff adjustments.
    The meeting also resolved that the following issues of concern to Labour should be treated as “stand – alone” items:
    The 40% stake of Government in the DISCO and the stake of workers to be reflected in the composition of the DISCO’s Boards.

    An all-inclusive and independent review of the power sector operations as provided in the privatization MOU to be undertaken before the end of the year 2020, with Labour represented.

    That going forward, the moribund National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC) be inaugurated before the end of the year 2020 to institutionalize the process of tripartism and socio dialogue on socio – economic and major labour matters to forestall crisis

    DOWNSTREAM SECTOR DEREGULATION

    Consequent upon the critical review of the various challenges of the downstream sector of the Nigeria oil and gas industry vis a vis the incalculable losses associated with a subsidy regime the Country has been incurring in terms of, stifled growth in the downstream sector, diminished human capital development and massive financial leakages and flight. This is in addition to the dire financial circumstances of the Federation that precludes any ability to sustain any subsidy on PMS and making deregulation of PMS inevitable. Consequently, the Parties agreed to the following:

    All parties agreed on the urgency for increasing the local refining capacity of the nation to reduce the overdependency on importation of petroleum products to ensure energy security, reduce cost of finished products, increase employment and business opportunities for Nigerians.

    To address (1) above, NNPC to expedite the rehabilitation of the nation’s four refineries located in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna and to achieve 50% completion for Port Harcourt by December 2021, while timelines and delivery for Warri and Kaduna will be established by the inclusive Steering Committee.

    To ensure Commitment and transparency to the processes and timelines of the rehabilitation exercise, the management of NNPC has offered to integrate the national leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) into the Steering Committee already established by the Corporation.

    A Validation team comprising the representatives of the NNPC, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), NUPENG and PENGASSAN will be established to monitor progress of the rehabilitation of the refineries and the pipelines/strategic depots network and advice the Steering Committee periodically.

    Post rehabilitation, NNPC shall involve the PENGASSAN and NUPENG in the process of establishing the operational model of the Nation’s refineries.

    The Federal Government will facilitate the delivery of licensed modular and regular refineries, involvement of upstream companies in petroleum refining and establishing framework for financing in the downstream sector.

    NNPC to expedite work on the Build Operate and Transfer framework for the nation’s pipelines and strategic depots network for efficient transportation and distribution of Petroleum products to match the delivery timelines of the refineries as agreed.

    The Federal Government and its agencies to ensure delivery of 1 million CNG/LPG AutoGas conversion kits, storage skids and dispensing units under the Nigeria Gas Expansion Programme by December 2021 to enable delivery of cheaper transportation and power fuel. A Governance Structure that will include representatives of organized Labour shall be established for timely delivery.

    GENERAL INTERVENTION

    To cushion the impacts of the downstream sector deregulation and tariffs adjustment in the power sector, the Federal Government will implement the following:

    A specific amount to be unveiled by the FGN in two weeks’ time will be isolated from the Economic Sustainability Programme Intervention Fund and be accessed by Nigerian Workers with subsequent provision for 240,000 under the auspices of NLC and TUC for participation in agricultural ventures through the CBN and the Ministry of Agriculture. The timeline will be fixed at the next meeting.

    Federal Government will facilitate the removal of tax on minimum wage as a way of cushioning the impacts of the policy on the lowest vulnerable.

    Federal Government will make available to organized labour 133 CNG/LPG driven mass transit buses immediately and provide to the major cities across the Country on a scale up basis thereafter to all States and Local Governments before December 2021.

    Housing: 10% be allocated to Nigerian workers under the ongoing Ministry of Housing and Finance initiative through the NLC and TUC.

    Consequently, the NLC and TUC agreed to suspend the planned industrial action.

    ORGANISED LABOUR;
    ___________________ __________________
    Ayuba Wabba, mni Quadri Olalaye
    NLC PRESIDENT TUC PRESIDENT

    _________________ __________________
    Emmanuel Ugboaja Musa Lawal Ozigi, mni Secretary General NLC Secretary General TUC

    _________________ __________________
    Williams E. Akporeha Festus Osifo
    NUPENG President PENGASSAN President

    ___________________ __________________
    Martin Uzoegwu Chris N. Okonkwo
    President NUEE President, SSAEAC

    FOR GOVERNMENT:

    __________________ _______________________
    Timipre Sylva Festus Keyamo, SAN
    Hon. Min. of State Petroleum Hon. Min. of State Labour & Employment

    __________________ _____________________
    Alh Lai Mohammed Godwin Jedy-Agba
    Hon. Min. of Information & Culture Hon. Min. of State Power

    _________________________
    Sen. (Dr.) Chris Nwabueze Ngige, OON, MD.
    Honourable Minister of Labour & Employment

    _______________________________
    Boss Mustapha
    Secretary to the Government of the Federation

  • Labour Strike: How Speaker of House, Gbajabiamila Pushed for Further Talks Before Expiration of Notice

    Labour Strike: How Speaker of House, Gbajabiamila Pushed for Further Talks Before Expiration of Notice

    • Gbajabiamila Calls for More Time to Negotiate with Executive on Labour Demands

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, on Sunday implored the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to give room for enough time for negotiations with the executive arm of government over the industrial action scheduled to commence on Monday.

    The Speaker, who gave the appeal when he met representatives of organised labour later met with the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha to deliberate on the outcome of his meeting with the labour leaders.

    The labour unions had threatened to embark on industrial action from Monday if their demands for the reversal of the increase in electricity tariff and Premium Motor Split (PMS) were not met.

    Gbajabiamila, while meeting with the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Ayuba Wabba, and the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Quadri Olaleye, in his office on Sunday, expressed concern over the consequences of a shutdown of the nation’s socio-economic activities on Nigerians, while disclosing his intentions to interface with the executive for a possible amicable resolution of the demands of the Labour unions.

    Gbajabiamila said it is incumbent upon the House as elected representatives to see how they can intervene and perhaps a third voice, would be able to broker some kind of amicable solution to the ongoing impasse while citing instances where the House had successfully intervened.

    He said: “In good conscience, we are on the same page, or most of the time, we’re on the same page, and you know, that we, the leadership of the House of Representatives are on the same page with you.

    “But what is the consequence, and that’s the bigger picture of going on strike. When we have a complete government shutdown, the people we seek to protect, invariably end up holding the short end of the stick.

    “So it ends up defeating the purpose. You know, sometimes, no matter how long negotiations or talks last, sometimes at the end of the day, it may be the better route to take.

    “The budget is coming to the National Assembly. Some policies that are being considered and that will make sure to cushion the effect of this includes the provision of food items, distribution of grains, reduction on taxes on minimum wage, payment of some special allowances from October to January 2021, involvement in the ownership of housing programs through household and mortgage outlets by the NLC and TUC members, and special policy of government vehicles autogas, which is an alternative to PMS for public establishments.

    “I think these policies and more will go a long way and this can be provided in the budget but it is a couple of weeks away or less. So this is an appeal”.

    After the meeting, Wabba said the outcome of the interface with the executive as promised by the Speaker would determine the next line of action of the Labour unions.

    He said: “We told the Speaker how the discussion with the Federal government went and how the meeting was adjourned, so, he has also promised to try and intervene at his own level to see to it that we don’t inflict more pains on Nigerians.

    “In the course of the discussion, we had also realized that the House of Representatives has actually done a lot on these issues, including recommendations to the government which we have shared mutually

    “But the bottom line is that we want this burden that has now been shifted to Nigerians as consumers is also lifted so that we can have a decent life”.

    On the strike, he said, “If the issues are not addressed, we have given notice and that notice will certainly expire by tomorrow (Monday) and all the actions we have pronounced will take effect”.

    Present at the meeting were Deputy House Leader, Rep. Peter Akpatason; Chairman, House Committee on Labour, Employment and Productivity, Rep. Mohammed Ali Wudil and the Chairman, House Committee on Power, Rep. Magaji Da’u Aliyu.

  • Nationwide Strike: FG, Labour Unions in Emergency Meeting

    Nationwide Strike: FG, Labour Unions in Emergency Meeting

    An emergency meeting between the Federal Government and the leadership of the organised labour over the ultimatum demanding government to reverse the increment in the pump price of petrol and electricty tariff is in progress at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa.

    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha is heading the government’s delegation while NLC President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba and his TUC counterpart, Comrade Quadri Olayele are leading the labour team at the meeting.

    There have been series of meetings between the Federal Government and the organised labour following ultimatum issued by the two labour centres to government to reverse its decision on the pump price of petrol and electricty tariff.

    The last meeting held last Thursday was adjourned to reconvene tomorrow, Monday, by 3pm but the Federal Government summoned an emergency meeting to apprehend the looming protest and strike after the expiration of the ultimatum by 12am tonight, Joseph Agi reports for Radio Nigeria.

  • Labour: FG Makes Last Ditch Effort to Avert Costly Strike 7pm

    Labour: FG Makes Last Ditch Effort to Avert Costly Strike 7pm

    Labour: FG Makes Last Ditch Effort to Avert Costly Strike 7pm

    In what appears to be a last ditch effort to avert the impending nationwide strike action by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Federal Government has scheduled a meeting with the leadership of Organised Labour for 7pm on Sunday.

    Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Charles Akpan, confirmed the meeting in a statement.

    Earlier adjourned to Monday at 3pm on after the Federal Government failed to reach an agreement with Labour on fuel and electricity tariff hikes, the meeting will hold at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja by 7pm.

    “The Honorable Minister for Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige will be meeting with the Organized Labour.

    “The meeting earlier scheduled for Monday 28th September 2020 is now scheduled as follows:

    “Date: Today, Sunday, 27th September 2020; Venue Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa: Time: 7pm”, Akpan Stated.

    Tobiloba Kolawole

  • Thirteen Boko Haram Terrorists and Family Members Surrender to Nigerian Troops

    Thirteen Boko Haram Terrorists and Family Members Surrender to Nigerian Troops

    Suspected Boko Haram terrorists numbering 13, alongside their family members including 6 women and 17 children from Kodila village on Saturday, September 26, surrendered to troops of 151 Task Force Battalion at Banki Junction in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.

    Boko Haram terrorist and family members
    The Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. John Enenche, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

    The DHQ media chief said the terrorists took the decision following a sustained aerial bombardment and aggressive intensive clearance operation of the troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE on their village.

    “They survived the aerial bombardment but were starving with nothing to fall back on. They have no choice than to surrender,” the source stated.

    The suspected terrorists and their family members are now receiving medical attention at the 21 Special Armoured Brigade Medical Centre.

    The suspects are also currently undergoing thorough profiling and investigation in line with global best practice in handling such cases

  • Air Force Court Martial Sentences 4 Others to 21 Years Imprisonment

    Air Force Court Martial Sentences 4 Others to 21 Years Imprisonment

    Four executive members of the 151 Base Services Group (151 BSG) Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Makurdi, who were standing trial before a General Court Martial (GCM), sitting at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Makurdi for criminal misappropriation of over N41,000,000.00, were, on 24 September 2020, awarded various sentences.

    A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola noted that the 4 NAF personnel, who were arraigned before the GCM for Misappropriation of Cooperative Funds, amongst other offences, include Flight Lieutenant (Flt Lt) Sherifi Olawoore, Flying Officer (Fg Offr) Ademola Adekoya, Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Michael Oyebanji and Warrant Officer (WO) Paul Atteh. The personnel were sentenced based on their levels of involvement.

    Delivering his judgement, the President of the GCM, Air Commodore Nazib Aliyu, pronounced the 4 accused personnel guilty of various charges. Flt Lt Olawoore was tried for negligently performing his duty as the President of the Cooperative, found guilty and awarded 6 months loss of seniority. In the same vein, Fg Offr Adekoya was tried for negligently performing his duty as Secretary of the Cooperative. He was found guilty and awarded one year loss of seniority.

    MWO Michael Oyebanji, who was the Vice President of the Cooperative, was tried on a 46 count charge, including; Criminal Breach of Trust, Theft, Criminal Conspiracy, Criminal Misappropriation, Making of False Documents and Conduct to the Prejudice of Service Discipline, contrary to Sections 114 and 103 (d) of the Armed Forces Act Cap A20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Sections 312, 287, 96 and 309 of the Penal Code Cap P3 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. He was found guilty on all 46 counts and subsequently sentenced to serve 21 years imprisonment, cumulatively, as well as reduction in rank to Corporal and ordered to refund all monies misappropriated. In the same vein, WO Paul Atteh, who was tried for negligently performing his duty as the Treasurer of the Cooperative as well as for the Making of False Documents and Criminal Breach of Trust, was found guilty of all 3 charges. He was awarded reduction in rank from WO to Sergeant, in the first instance, and then eventually reduced to the rank of Corporal. He is also required to pay a fine of N1,000,000.00. Meanwhile, the GCM has ordered the release of WO Atteh from detention.

    While pleading in mitigation, the Defence Counsel urged the Court to show leniency, describing the Accused Persons as first-time offenders. The sentences were announced as being subject to confirmation by the Appropriate Superior Authority. However, it is within the rights of the Accused Personnel to appeal the judgment of the GCM, if they are dissatisfied.

    Tobiloba Kolawole

  • FG Plans Autogas As Alternative To Petrol – VP Osinbajo

    FG Plans Autogas As Alternative To Petrol – VP Osinbajo

    Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, says the Federal Government would focus on autogas as an alternative to the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

    According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity, Office of the Vice President, Laolu Akande, issued on Saturday, Osinbajo disclosed the plan during a virtual interactive session hosted by the Africa Report magazine on Thursday.

    Read the full statement below

    STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

    We Will Focus On Auto Gas As Alternative To Petrol –Osinbajo

    *Use of Compressed Natural Gas part of ESP

    *VP says no plan to increase taxes

    In a determined effort to offer Nigerians an effective option to petrol, the Federal Government will focus on developing Compressed Natural Gas otherwise known as autogas, which is priced significantly lower than PMS.

    Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated this during a virtual interactive session hosted by the Africa Report magazine on Thursday.

    Answering a participant’s questions regarding the removal of petrol subsidy, the Vice President said: “we have experienced a severe downturn in our finances over the years, so at 60 per cent less revenue, we are in a position where sustaining fuel subsidies is practically impossible simply because we do not have the resources.”

    According to him, “what we have decided to do is to focus on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) which is about half the price of petrol today. So, if we use CNG for our cars and for our buses, it will cost between N78 and N80 or so per liter.”

    Under the Nigerian Economic Sustainability Plan (NESP), the Federal Government’s objective is to promote domestic use of CNG and support the creation of 1 million jobs by maximizing the domestic use of CNG while reducing reliance on refined petroleum products like kerosene and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

    Responding to a question regarding increase in taxes, the Vice President noted that the administration has no plans of increasing taxes, stating that “our position really is that, this is hardly the time to raise taxes”.

    According to him, “It is even more difficult for people to pay taxes now than ever before, I mean, given the state of affairs, but this is why we’re doing everything now.

    “We are trying to ensure that businesses survive this period by providing as much support as we can, and by relieving them of as much burden as possible and ensuring that they are able to get some moratorium so that they can at least continue to run their businesses and by all the other interventions and support that we are giving, we hope that those interventions will help businesses.

    “Our approach is first to ensure that we save jobs. If we save jobs and save businesses, and then do the best we can in agriculture, the housing scheme and all of that, we will actually be able to improve spending and if we are able to improve spending, taxes will definitely improve, and if businesses survive, taxes will improve. So, those are the sort of projections that we are looking at.”

    It would be recalled that the 2020 Finance Act exempts businesses generating less than N25 million in annual turnover from Companies Income Tax. Also, businesses with a turnover of between N25m and N100m will only pay 20% Companies Income Tax instead of the 30% which was the former applicable rate.

    The Vice President had recently said it is the plan of the Buhari administration to put money in the hands of Nigerians.

    Addressing concerns raised about electricity tariffs, the Vice President said the era of subsidizing petrol and electricity was over, noting that government has adopted measures of addressing the situation.

    His words: “What we are trying to do is to ensure that we are able to reform the electricity industry. The industry is privatized except for the transmission sector. But what we have seen is that the distribution companies (DisCos) are just not able to meet their targets or to even provide electricity on any kind of stable basis now.

    “The DisCos have been hankering all these years for a cost-reflective tariff and government has been paying the subsidy. In fact, in the past few years, we have spent about N1.3 trillion on subsidies for electricity. Again, here is a situation where that is completely unaffordable.

    “We want to ensure that new companies come into the market. So, that will be decentralized completely. This way, in several parts of our country, we can have micro-grids, small grids, and all of that. We are doing 5 million solar connections as part of the Economic Sustainability Plan. We think that, with all these, we can electrify our country within a short period of time.”

    The Vice President added that the overall target of government in the Economic Sustainability Plan is to save existing jobs and revamp businesses by improving the spending capability of Nigerians through the various initiatives in industry, agriculture, mass housing, and the solar connectivity projects.

    Over 1, 200 persons on different platforms across the world, participated in the virtual event tagged by Africa Report, the organisers as Digital Dialogues.

    Laolu Akande
    Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity, Office of the Vice President
    26th September 2020

  • Gov. Abiodun Appoints SUBEB, OOUTH Board

    Gov. Abiodun Appoints SUBEB, OOUTH Board

    Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has appointed chairman and members of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin, the Governor also named chairman and members of the board of the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu.

    The statement noted that 10 other boards, commissions and agencies previously named by the Government will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 29th September, 2020 at the June 12 Cultural Centre Kuto, Abeokuta 2pm prompt.

    The statement said the inauguration of all appointed commissions and boards will be done in batches in compliance with COVID-19 protocols.

    “These new boards are too important to the development of the Building Our Future Together Agenda because Basic Education is critical to that future we are building. The OOUTH was one of the first places I went upon assumption of office and the Committee we set up then made far-reaching recommendations that I am sure this Board would work on in order that this tertiary health institution fulfils the dreams of its founding fathers.

    “Our Administration is firmly committed to restoring OOUTH to its enviable position as a training, research and healthcare facility. That’s why we are appointing people with rich and diverse experience to reengineer the Teaching Hospital. Our SUBEB too will fast-track our goal of Building Our Future Together and put our education on the path of excellent academic achievement and service delivery”, the statement said.

    Governor Abiodun said the new appointees are forward-thinking managers who would discharge the onerous tasks thrust on them responsibly. He prayed that they will give their all to their assignments to move the State to the next level.

    “As I have always stressed, the Building Our Future Together is more than a mantra. It is an overarching policy thrust that we will leave no stone unturned to actualize. Our inclusiveness is deliberate because together, we will achieve more and at a faster pace,” the statement further quoted the Governor as saying.

    Below is the full list of the new appointees:

    State Universal Basic Education Board
    (SUBEB)

    1. Dr. Femi Majekodunmi
    – Chairman

    2. Barr. Femi Odufowokan
    Member I

    3. Hon. Isiaka Aderounmu
    Member II

    4. Hon. Femi Ilori-Oduntan
    Member III

    5. Hon. Segun Ogunleye
    Ex Officio

    6. Alhaja Bisola Aliu
    Ex Officio

    7. Mrs. Kemi Adeogun
    Ex Officio

    8. Barr. Kola Ogunlana
    Ex Officio

    9. Hon. Adewale Adeogun
    Ex Officio

    10. Hon. Waheed Ogundele
    Ex Officio

    OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL

    1. Dr. Adekunle Hassan
    – Chairman

    2. Dr. (Mrs.) Bisola Shodipo-Clark
    Member

    3. Dr. Haruna Adetunji Ajibode
    Member

    4. Mr. Solu Abimbola
    Member

    5. Dr. Peter Adefuye
    Member
    Chief Medical Director (OOUTH)

    6. Prof. Tola Olatunji
    Member
    Provost, College oh Health Sciences (OOUTH)

    7. Prof. Adediwura Fred Jaiyesimi – Member
    Representative of Senate (OOU)

    8. Prof. Ayodeji Johnson Agboola – Member
    Deputy Vice-Chancellor (OOU)

    9. Dr. (Mrs) Bunmi Fatungase
    Member
    Chair, Medical Advisory Council (OOUTH)

    10. Dr. Oluwole. O. Kukoyi
    Member
    Representing Nigeria Medical Association (NMA)

    11. Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi
    Member
    Representing Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria

    12. Dr. Solomon O. Sokunbi
    Member
    (Deputy Director, Hospital Services, Ministry of Health

    On the schedule of the first batch of inauguration are 97 chairmen and members of 10 of the previously appointed Boards and Agencies. All appointees are to be seated by 1:30pm. The boards to be inaugurated are:

    1. Ogun State Housing Corporation

    2. Ogun State Health Management Board

    3. Ogun State Agro Services Corporation

    4. Ogun State Bulk Purchasing

    5. Ogun State Agric Multi-Purpose Credit Agency (OSAMCA)

    6. Ogun State Market Development Board

    7. Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation

    8. Ogun State Alternate Medicine Board

    9. Food Crops Marketing Board

    10. Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA)

    It should be noted that only those to be inaugurated will be allowed access to the venue, in view of the prevailing measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

     

  • Ekiti APC Crisis: Fayemi Remains Party Leader, National Secretariat Tells Ojudu Faction Over Suspension

    Ekiti APC Crisis: Fayemi Remains Party Leader, National Secretariat Tells Ojudu Faction Over Suspension

    The crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State Friday took another turn as the Tony Adeniyi-led faction suspended Governor Kayode Fayemi and the Paul Omotosho-led Executive Council over anti-party activities.

    The latest suspension order came barely 24 hours after Omotosho’s faction loyal to the governor suspended the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President, Ojudu Babafemi, and 10 others.

    But respite seemed to have come the way of Fayemi, Babafemi and others as APC National Secretariat in a statement on Friday by the Deputy National Secretary, Yekini Nabena, described the suspensions as a “nullity.”

    Nabena said the attention of APC National Secretariat has been drawn to a purported and widely-reported “suspension” of Fayemi as well as an earlier reported “indefinite suspension” of BBabafemi and other party members in the state.

    Suspending Fayemi and Omotosho on Friday, the Adeniyi-led faction alleged that the governor’s camp has refused to hold Ward Congress in Ekiti State since inception of the party, describing the governor’s faction as illegal.

    Adeniyi represented Ekiti South Senatorial district between 2011 and 2015. He explained that he was made Acting Chairman of Ekiti APC owing to the “absence of direction or directive from the National Body” and was adjudged as “the only one thus capable to call the SEC (State Executive Council) meeting as duly required by the constitution henceforth.”

    The senator further described his factional supporters as “the authentic members” of the party in the state that were duly constituted as members of the National Convention of the party, based on Section 12.8 of APC Constitution.

    The Adeniyi faction after its meeting on September 23 accused Fayemi of anti-party roles in the September 19 Edo State governorship election, which saw the party losing to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The party alleged Fayemi of colluding with Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, in his bid for 2023 vice presidential slot under PDP, if his bid for presidential candidacy in APC fails.

    However, APC National Secretariat has called on the warring factions to sheathe their swords to allow for genuine reconciliation.

    “The actions are a nullity as the party’s National Secretariat is yet to receive communication from the state chapter on the purported ‘suspensions.’ We strongly advise all members to adhere to our party constitution.

    “Governor Kayode Fayemi remains the leader of the party in Ekiti State.

    “In line with the mandate of the Governor Mai Mala Buni-led APC Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee and the President’s admonition to party members to ensure and support ongoing amicable and rancour-free settlement of internal party disputes, we call on our esteemed party members and leaders in Ekiti State to be duly guided.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the Architect Paul Omotosho-chaired APC Ekiti State Working Committee is the authentic, valid and duly recognised Executive as no factions or divisions exist in the State Chapter,” Nabena said.

    Read the full text of the statement on the suspension of Fayemi and Omotosho…

    RE: DR. KAYODE FAYEMI ANTI–PARTY ACTIVITIES

    After painstakingly reviewing the activities of some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, we the authentic members of the Party in the State and Members of State Executive Committee per Section 12.8 of APC Constitution being duly constituted members of the National Convention of the Party, rose from its meeting of the 23rd September, 2020 and resolved as follows:

    1. We note the continued illegalities in the name of the party, being conducted by Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who as Governor is an ordinary member of the SEC and ought to have called meetings of this duly constituted body as a critical party organ, has failed to do so since his assumption of office in 2018.

    2.That the body currently masquerading as the elected members of the SEC or as the State Working Committee or appendages is unknown to us (as due statutory members of SEC) since no Ward Congress has taken place in Ekiti State APC since inception. All SEC members listed in Section 12.8 of our constitution, (i) to (xxvii) as such are open positions since only duly officiated Ward congresses with INEC observation can fill these positions.

    3.As such, only the duly elected members of the APC in the state serving as Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker & Deputy Speaker as well as Principal Officers of the House and Members of the National Convention which includes all present and past National Assembly members today constitute the State SEC of our great party.

    4.To this end, in the absence of a properly organized body and meeting, and the continued insistence of the Governor to neglect his duty to initiate Ward Congresses or call a meeting of the SEC to deliberate upon pertinent issues, we as loyal members of our party and members of the State Executive Committee met to rescue our party from continued denigration and abuse, and resolved thus:

    1.That Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State is hereby suspended from the Party in view of his numerous anti-Party activities especially his role in the recent concluded governorship election in Edo State which is contrary to the provisions of Article 21 (A) (ii) of the APC Constitution.
    For five days prior to the Edo elections Gov Fayemi hosted PDP big wig Mr Femi Fani- Kayode in the government house in Ado Ekiti in the run up to the Edo elections . It was here they perfected the coup against our party in Edo State. This is same Fani-Kayode who daily abuses President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the APC as a party as well a vital section of our country. We have evidence of that meeting.

    Fani-Kayode specifically said he has gone on his tour as part of an effort between him and Fayemi to build a cross-party alliance and few hours after leaving Ekiti he fired a shot at Asiwaju Tinubu.

    1 (a) We also have evidence of celebration by his aides in Ekiti government house and on social media.

    1(b) We also recall his role in the gubernatorial election in Oyo State where he supported the PDP candidate to defeat the APC candidate. A second tranche of money he sent to Gov Makinde in the election was intercepted by soldiers. The courier Mr Ayo Adegbite, his Chief Protocol Officer was arrested and he immediately disowned and announced his sack . Mr Adegbite remains his aide till date.

    1(c) We also recall the support he provided a PDP candidate who challenged an APC Senator Prince Dayo Adeyeye in the Tribunal. He moved the judges to Kaduna to deliver judgement when he knew what he planned against his party was unpopular in Ekiti. We have more to tell on this betrayal and traitorous act of his. APC Senator is out of the Senate today and PDP is in. The relationship between Fayemi and Senator Olujimi of PDP , the beneficiary of his treachery is known to all in Ekiti State.

    We also recall his resort to court when majority of party members nominated late Senator Abiola Ajimobi for Deputy National Chairman of the party. He fought Ajimobi till death.

    1(d) His fraternisation with the PDP in continuation of his bid for Vice Presidential candidate under the party ( if his bid for Presidential candidate in APC fails ) was masked by commissioning of projects in Rivers State, a smokescreen for his consultation to woo the support of Governor Nyesom Wike last year .

    2. That the Paul Omotosho led faction of APC Executive in the State is hereby declared illegal and suspended from the Party for failure to emerge in accordance to the Constitution of the Party.

    3.That Paul Omotoso and his co travellers’s refusal to respect court proceedings in which they are not only joined but appeared in court through the proceedings but defiantly disrespected the court contrary to the hallowed decision of the Supreme Court in OJUKWU vs GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE

    4.That Paul Omotosho faction of the executive should desist from parading themselves as the Executive Members of the Party in the State and that the Nigerian Police and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the general public should take note.

    5.That Senator Tony Adeniyi, as a statutory member of the SEC going by our party’s constitution, was elected by all members attending as the Acting Chairman of the State Executive Committee in the absence of direction or directive from the National Body. He is as such the only one thus capable to call the SEC meeting as duly required by the constitution from henceforth.

    6.The committee seating also agreed to begin bridge building across our members, statewide and nationally, and set up a special intervention committee, APC Majeobaje Working Group, to be led by Prince Bamgboye Adegoroye, and six other individuals from across our great state. That working group will henceforth do the hard work of rebuilding APC in Ekiti state and prevent the oncoming annihilation of our party if we take no action at the upcoming polls.

    We note that the All Progressives Congress is a party of progressives, and must do things only in line with the law. The APC cannot act against its constitution or the law of the land, hence this intervention became urgently necessary and pertinent before marauders destroy the party permanently.

    It must be emphasized that with the increasingly discerning capacity and sophistication of our people we cannot afford to take them for granted. We must be able to sustain the relevance of our party in Ekiti State, hold our members and win new members. We are obligated to ensure that the light of our electoral prospect and fortune is not dimmed or extinguished.

    Signed:
    For Ekiti State APC State Executive Committee

    1. Senator Tony Adeniyi
    ⁃ Senator , Ekiti South Senatorial District (2011 – 2015)

    2. Senator Babafemi Ojudu
    ⁃ Senator , Ekiti Central Senatorial District ( 2011 – 2015 )

    3. Senator Dayo Adeyeye, Senator , Ekiti South Senatorial District ( 2019- ) Former Minister of Works.

    4. Congressman Bimbo Daramola, Ekiti North Federal Constituency (2011 – 2015)

    5. Hon Robinson Ajiboye , Ekiti North Federal Constituency (2011 – 2015)

    6. Hon Oye Ojo, Ekiti North Federal Constituency (2011 – 2015)

    7. Hon ( Dr.) Adewale Omirin – Hon Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly (2011 – 2015)

    8. Hon Femi Adeleye , Member , Ekiti State House of Assembly , (2007 – 2011)

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Sanwo-Olu Identifies Real Estate Business as Key Factor of Lagos Economy

    Sanwo-Olu Identifies Real Estate Business as Key Factor of Lagos Economy

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has identified real estate business as a key sector that has the potential of contributing 25 per cent growth to the state’s economy, saying his administration could not afford to miss this opportunity.

    Speaking at the maiden Policy Roundtable Dialogue with the theme: “International Best Practice on Real Estate Regulations,” organised by Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), Sanwo-Olu charged property developers, investors, real estate lawyers and practitioners to work with his administration to create a home ownership model that would help the state government address the deficits observed in housing market in Lagos State.

    The governor raised concern over the huge gap observed in the provision of mass housing to large number of residents, describing the situation as unacceptable. He said Lagos State Government was ready to bridge the gap by partnering the private sector and working with stakeholders to ensure people have access to viable home services.

    Sanwo-Olu disclosed that his administration had started to identify big players in the real estate sector that would partner with the government to raise housing stock of in the state. He said the government was ready to provide enabling environment for the investors to put their finances in creation of viable housing market for residents.

    According to him, “Public Private Partnership is one of the options we are exploring to realise our objectives of providing viable housing scheme for our citizens. We are at the edge of identifying real big players in the real estate sector to see how well we can leapfrog housing stock in our state. The government is ready to provide enabling environment and remove the bottlenecks that may impede this opportunity.

    “The housing stock deficit that we have in Lagos is not acceptable, but we all know the government cannot provide everything. We certainly need to explore opportunities in private investment to ensure we realise our objective.

    “Real estate business has the potential of contributing 25 per cent growth to the State’s economy and we cannot let this opportunity pass by.”

    Sanwo-Olu said part of the efforts being made by the government to raise the investment level of real estate business is to improve the turnaround time on land transactions. He said the state government had started improvement work on its Geographic Information System (GIS) platform to enable real estate investors have real time information on status of property they are investing in.

    The governor harped on lack of accurate data on real estate investment in the state, pledging that the state would be working with the practitioners to create workable database that would help investors and government. He added that his administration would introduce legislations that would help curb bad behaviors among tenants and property owners.

    He disclosed that his administration would be launching a N5 billion seed capital through Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to support businesses that want to provide succour to citizens in different areas.

    In his remarks, Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, assured the stakeholders that the current administration was ready to regulate business and protect the citizens from abuse and fraudulent transactions.

    Also speaking at the event, Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the incumbent administration would not fail in its social responsibility to the people and investors.

    She said: “The reason for the emphasis on registration with the Real Estate Practitioners and Property Developers is to provide protection to citizens from imposters, fraudsters and reduce sharp practices associated with some unauthorised individuals who are not registered members of any professional association in Lagos and the country at large.

    “I urge all stakeholders to join hands with the state government to eliminate dubious individuals in the Real Estate industry and deal with them in accordance with relevant laws of the state.

    “This way, the integrity of the business will be restored and international investment will increase. LASRERA portal will provide local and foreign investors with the relevant data analytics for market transparency and intelligence that will help the growth and development of the real estate sector.”

    Idowu Sowunmi