Senator Rochas Okorocha, representing Imo West senatorial district, has said that becoming the Governor of Imo State made him poorer.

Okorocha said this when he appeared as a guest on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics while denying the allegations that he acquired properties with government funds.

According to the former governor, people seem to have forgotten so easily that he was a successful person before becoming governor in 2011.

Okorocha, therefore, dared anyone to come forth with evidence that he is corrupt and mismanaged Imo State funds while in office.

“I challenge anybody to prove that I acquired any property with any government fund,” Okorocha said.

“I think people have forgotten that I was Rochas before becoming the governor of Imo State; I think they have forgotten completely.

Read Also: Okorocha: Police detaining my associates is a plot to implicate me

“If anything, becoming a governor made me even poorer than what I was in the past. I don’t know whether I acquired any property here in Abuja, there is none.”

The lawmaker said the hotel is linked to him belongs to his wife which is also a source for their foundation.

Okorocha wondered how he could have stolen the meagre monthly allocation the State receives from the Federal Government.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/becoming-a-governor-made-me-even-poorer-okorocha-denies-corruption-allegation/

Presiding Bishop, Living Faith Church Worldwide, David Oyedepo has revealed what he would do if Nigeria is engulfed in crisis.

Oyedepo, in one of his sermons, said he would be the last person to leave Nigeria if the nation is engulfed in crisis.

“If there is a crisis in this Nation, I will be the last to leave here,” he said.

Oyedepo’s view is different from Pastor Paul Adefarasin of the House on the Rock, who told his members to plan an escape route out of Nigeria.

The clergyman said the escape route is important because the crises rocking the country could degenerate into a civil war.
But Oyedepo admitted that things were currently wrong in Nigeria, but said he would be the last to leave if things degenerated into serious crisis.

However, Oyedepo said nobody could enjoy and sustain the flow of favour without the fear of God as a lifestyle.
“Don’t rob nobody, don’t cheat on anyone. Don’t outsmart your business partners. Don’t swear falsely. Don’t take bribes. Favour is the companion of all that fear God and favour shall be your companion from now.


“Flowing in favour demands the doing of righteousness. You know there is the appropriation of righteousness that people emphasize today, but don’t be deceived, he that doeth righteousness is righteous. The doing righteousness: favour!
“There was an explosion of favour, until the time that his Word came. The Word of the Lord tried him,” he said.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/i-wont-leave-nigeria-if-crisis-breaks-out-bishop-oyedepo/

Bauchi Emirate Council has suspended a lawmaker, Yakubu Shehu Abdullahi, as the traditional title holder of Wakilin Birnin, for disrespecting the Emir of Bauchi, Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu.

The suspension which was contained in a three-paragraph letter dated May 16, 2021, and signed by Nasiru Musa Maidala for Secretary of the Emirate, said the member representing Bauchi Federal Constituency in the House of Reps, appeared in Alkebba (a kind of regal robe) and Kandiri (a staff) before the Emir, which is disrespectful.

Bauchi Emirate Council suspends lawmaker as traditional title holder for disrespecting Emir

According to the letter written in Hausa, the “unbecoming behaviour” of the lawmaker amounted to disrespect not only to the Emir of Bauchi but also to District, village heads and other traditional title holders in the Emirate.

“The emirate council under the chairmanship of Emir of Bauchi has carefully deliberated on your actions, which are disrespect to the emir, political leaders, members of the council, district heads and emirs,” the letter reads.

The letter cited an incident that happened at the Government House on Saturday during the annual Sallah Hawan Daushe held to pay homage to the governor by the Emir of Bauchi and all the traditional rulers in the Emirate.

Read Also: Total power blackout in Kaduna State, as Labour unions begin strike

“The council cited examples of how you appeared before emirs in Alkebba (a kind of regal robe) and Kandiri (a kind of staff), despite being cautioned against this. What happened on Saturday, May 15, 2021, at Government House showed how you disrespect the emir, the traditional institution and the governor.”

“After thorough deliberation by the Emirate Council on your actions which are disrespectful to the Emir of Bauchi, Dr Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, you are hereby suspended as the Wakilin Birnin Bauchi indefinitely until further notice.”



source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/bauchi-emirate-suspends-reps-member-indefinitely-for-disrespecting-emir/

Former Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has given an insight into how he became the royal father of Kano Emirate before he was deposed.
Sanusi who is the former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) recalled that long before he ascended the throne in Kano, he had visited great Tijjaniyya sheikhs in Kaulaha, Senegal who had prayed and rightly predicted he would become emir of Kano.
Also, he said he had visited Fez in Morocco where he had an encounter with an Arab, Sheikh Zubair, grandson of Sheikh Nyass, “I greeted him and he took me back to a Sheikh and they prayed for me”.
“They said I would be the next Emir of Kano which had come to pass,”
The former CBN governor stated this in his remarks when officials of the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect from across the country paid allegiance to him in his Kaduna home at the weekend, and affirmed him as their leader in Nigeria.
Sanusi recalled that even the present leadership of the Tijjaniyya bestowed on him 80% of those who endorsed him were Sheikhs that were not known to him.
While praying for peace and tranquillity in Nigeria, Sanusi admonished citizens to be patient and be law-abiding to the authorities.
He said even though things might not be rosy, it is a matter of time as normalcy may return as the years progresses.
Earlier, some of Tijjaniyya faithful took turns to pray for Sanusi and recited melodious Arabic tunes to eulogize him.
The Representative of the leader of Tijjaniyya Worldwide, Sheikh AbdulAhad Nyass, said the unanimous decision to have the former Emir as the leader in Nigeria was a blessing to all their followers not only in Nigeria but in Africa as a whole.
AbdulAhad Nyass said the leader of the Tijjaniyya worldwide Sheikh Mahi Nyass was proud of the former Emir’s achievements both in public life and as a monarch.

While praying for peace and harmony in the country, he described the large gathering of their followers who had converged on Kaduna in honour of Sanusi, as a testimony of how the former Emir was still accepted and cherished by their adherents who have absolute confidence in his leadership qualities.

Read Also: “I never believed in the use of political power to punish people – Ex. President, Goodluck Jonathan says
Similarly, Shekh Mukhtar Adhama expressed the belief that Sanusi as leader of the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect would encourage learning and deep scholarship amongst their followers.

According to him, “it is a thing of joy to see the entire Tijjaniyya scholars moved temporarily to Kaduna, to felicitate and pay their allegiance to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido, our leader”.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/sanusi-lamido-i-became-an-emir-through-prediction/

The Christian Association of Nigeria has urged the leadership of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and all Muslims in Nigeria, to continue to caution extremists.

CAN’s General Secretary, Daramola Joseph, conveyed the message in a statement on Thursday titled, ‘CAN rejoice with NSCIA, Muslims at Sallah.’

The Christian association congratulate NSCIA and all Muslims on the occasion of the successful completion of Ramadan and urged not to allow wicked people to give bad names to Islam.

The message read in part, “We are not unaware that your fasting was in obedience to the divine directive: ‘O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous’ Surat Al-Baqarah 2:183.

“May God answer all your godly prayers offered throughout the month.

Read Also: I support Southern Govs on ban on open grazing, Ladoja

“We appeal to the leadership of the NSCIA to continue to caution the extremists who are not well-grounded in the faith and whose wicked and ungodly actions are giving bad names to Islam.

“It is trite to know that no godly person will engage in the promotion of violence, kidnapping, banditry and terrorism or identify with the perpetrators.”

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/christian-association-of-nigeria-urges-islamic-council-to-caution-extremists/

Manchester City football club was on Tuesday confirmed winner of the 2020/2021 English Premier League (EPL). For those who follow football keenly, whether it is played in the dusty fields of Ajegunle, in Lagos, the La Liga in Spain, Italian Serie A, German Bundesliga, or EPL, this was one pulsating season, filled with excitement, despite the absence of physical spectators, due to the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic.
As someone who gets his kick from football (from what do you get your’s?) the fact that Manchester City got crowned champions three games to the end of the season after Manchester United lost 1-2 at home to Leicester City, holds great significance even for our country, and what she is currently passing through. Unique lessons can be drawn, which can inspire us as a people.
Since it was established in 1880, Manchester City was winning the League for the 7th time. Incidentally, five of the victories were in the past 10 years. Three of them are in four years, under the current coach, Pep Guardiola.
Eight weeks into this season that ends in another two weeks, Man City (as the team is popularly called) was Number 13 on the EPL table, which consists of 20 teams. And 38 games were to be played to complete the cycle.
Fans of the team were already hissing and cursing. Their opponents were gyrating and doing a jig, saying Man City was doomed for another season.
Recall what happened in the 2019/2020 season. Man City was eyeing a treble. Three back-to-back seasons as champions, and a record in English football. But the adversaries knew the record that was to be set, so they arrayed themselves against the team. Just as some forces knew the record that was to be achieved by Muhammadu Buhari as Nigerian President, and which he had begun to show since 2015 when he got into office, and they positioned against the government.
Every team, big or small, strong or weak, set its sights on Man City last season, flexed muscles, summoned superhuman skills and strength whenever they were meeting the champions attempting a treble. The end result? Man City finished a distant second behind Liverpool, which had emerged like a thundering typhoon, to win the laurel in admirable fashion.
The lesson? When you are high-flying, the centrifugal forces will come against you, and it would only take the grace of God for you to attain. Yoruba people call those forces Aiye. When Aiye is on your case, as it was against Man City, and it is against the Buhari government, you need God, and God alone. Aiye (meaning ‘the world,’ if freely translated) is the negative part of mankind. The pernicious, baleful, sly and scheming part of humanity. If Aiye gets on your matter, you need God and God alone.
Man City failed to make a record last season. Because Aiye was there. Liverpool shot out like a bolt from the blues and won the league for the first time after 30 years. It won new adherents to itself from different parts of the world. Buhari Amazon, Jewel Ifunaya Chika, was one of them. She simply ported from Manchester United, which she had been supporting for years, and pitched her tent with Liverpool. More about that team later.
Man City failed to make a record in the 2019/2020 season. Aiye was in full force against it. And the 2020/2021 season was initially not looking promising either. Eight weeks have gone by, the team was placed 13th on the table. It had lost 2-5 to Leicester City at home in Etihad Stadium, Tottenham drubbed it by two goals, played a draw with teams that couldn’t hold a candle to it in the past, and was generally forlorn and limp. Aiye was having a ball, laughing Man City to scorn. Aren’t they doing the same thing against the government in our country today, due to unrelenting security challenges, some of them possibly instigated by Aiye themselves?
But in November, the table turned for good for Man City, just as it would inexorably turn for Nigeria soon. The team beat Burnley by five goals to nothing, and it was the beginning of the turnaround. The victory came after victory, to the extent that the team was unbeaten in 21 consecutive games in the different competitions it was involved in. From the ashes, the Salamander had risen. Fire could not consume it, and today, Man City are champions, the fifth time in 10 years.
Who says Nigeria will not rise from its current travails? Who says Aiye will always win? Not where God is involved. And God is involved with Nigeria, our own dear native land. Under President Buhari, peace and security would be restored. The economy would rebound. Life would be abundant for the people, and Aiye would be left standing small, holding the rump of the flag of a country it thought had gone into oblivion. The winner takes it all, the loser standing small (apologies ABBA).
It was not a glory ride for Man City all the way, however. It lost other crucial matches to Man U, newcomer Leeds United, and Chelsea. But did that alter the destiny for the season? No! Nigeria will also attain her destiny, and soon too. Amen, somebody!
Still on the EPL, vital lessons too from Liverpool, the darling of the last two seasons. It first won the European Champions League, and then the Premiership. The team was simply radiating, making conquests and winning new followers. Till Aiye stepped into her case.
Liverpool, which won the league last season by a wide margin, has been struggling in a pitiable way this season. It is exerting itself so strenuously, not for number one or two positions, but to end in number four, and book a place in the Champions League. What happened? Aiye went after the team, the way it did to Man City when the team was to set a record. This season, Liverpool has lost not less than eight games, most of them at its Anfield home, back to back. And to comparatively lowly teams. It was humiliated by Fulham (now gone into relegation), Brighton, Burnley, Southampton, and other minnows. Not to be forgotten is the 7-2 shellacking last October by Aston Villa, and the 4-1 pounding by Man City in February. Thy glory oh Liverpool is slain upon the high places. How are the mighty fallen! Just because of Aiye.
Liverpool crashed out of the Champions League, losing to Real Madrid, which Chelsea came to beat home and away. On the day it was poised to change position on the league table, making a 4th placement sure, it was leading Newcastle till the very last minute of the game when it suddenly crumbled. The opponents drew level in the 95th minute, the very last seconds of added time. Aiye in action.
Read Also: Baba Ijesha will remain in custody until courts resume – Lagos CP
Man City bounced back from the ashes to emerge victors. It has won the Carabao Cup this season and may win the Champions League on May 29, if her luck holds. Liverpool would be back someday soon. Just as Nigeria would confound the enemies, and it would happen under Buhari’s leadership. The Good Book has said it, in Micah 7:8: “Rejoice not against me, O my enemy: when I fall, I shall rise again.”
Man City rose. Liverpool will rise. Nigeria will rise. And Aiye would lose. And fall flat on its face.
I can hear the Amen.
*Adesina is Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/femi-adesina-like-manchester-city-nigeria-will-overcome-security-challenges/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26ccYhqNbKI

Gimba Yau Kumo, the son-in-law of President Muhammadu Buhari, has been declared wanted by The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Kumo was declared wanted alongside Mr Tarry Rufus and Mr Bola Ogunsola in connection with issues bordering on misappropriation of National Housing Funds and diversion of the sum of Sixty Five Million dollars ($65,000,000).

In a notice published on Thursday, Azuka Ogugua, spokesperson of the anti-graft commission, released contacts where useful information concerning the whereabouts of the three suspects can be directed to.

Read the statement below

“Mr Tarry Rufus, Mr Gimba Yau Kumo and Mr Bola Ogunsola are hereby declared WANTED by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in connection with issues bordering on misappropriation of National Housing Funds and diversion of the sum of Sixty Five Million dollars ($65,000,000).

Anyone who has useful information on their whereabouts should report to ICPC Headquarters Abuja, any of the ICPC State Offices or the nearest police station, or call ICPC toll-free lines: 0803-123-0280, 0803-123-0281, 0803-123-0282, 0705-699-0190, 0705-699-0191 and 0800-CALL-ICPC (0800-2255-4272) or send an email to info@icpc.gov.ng.”

Kumo, a former managing director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, married Fatima, the president’s daughter, in 2016 at Daura, Katsina state.

His tenure at FMBN was characterized by allegations of corruption.

Read Also: Army debunks report of terrorists sharing Ramadan gift in Yobe, Borno

He and three others allegedly paid themselves outrageous severance packages at the end of their tenure in October 2014.

In April, the senate committee on public accounts summoned Kumo to explain the alleged irregular award of N3 billion contract when he was still at the bank.

https://newstrack.oak.tv/icpc-declares-buharis-son-in-law-kumo-others-wanted-over-alleged-65m-fraud/

rest in peace

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HM7BTiLdLls

Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and his wife Dolapo were among those who attended the service of songs for late Pastor Dare Adeboye, son of the General Overseer, Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye.

Also at the event were former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko and former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.

Hundreds of well-wishers also attended the event held at the Redemption Camp on Monday evening.

Tears flowed freely as friends and well-wishers recounted Dare’s last moment.

Read Also: EFCC not offering N1m reward to Yahoo Yahoo informants

Pastor Enoch Adeboye and his wife, Folu were not at the service of songs in line with Yoruba tradition.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/dare-adeboye-was-a-symbol-of-future-christian-ministry-%e2%80%95osinbajo/

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Benin Zonal Office, in the wee hours of Sunday, May 9, 2021, arrested 52 suspected internet fraudsters. The suspects were arrested in different locations in Benin City sequel to actionable intelligence.

Those arrested are Wisdom Attah, Alasa Solomon Osho, Jonathan Udofia, Emmanuel Udofia, Oyinbo Tejiri, Edoghogho Onsemudiana, Aisosa Ajayi, Paul Thomas Obinna, Osazuwa Osayamen, Madago Victor, Godwin Emmanuel, William Omorebokhae, Ezemo Junior, Iyamu Iyaro, Umoru Monsura, Efomwonyi Daniel, Omoruyi Lucky, Odion Omonzokpia, Aderho Collins, Ereomah Emmanuel, Eric Obi Ugo, Emmanuel Godwills, Solomon Lucky, Charles Endurance, Ehibor Abraham Ebuwa, Okosun Wesley and Oyase Destiny.

Others are Elvis Ohikhuore, Ugo Nweke, Faithful Omagbemi, Shuaibu McClinton, Edward Chumosa, Onoriode Precious, Emmanuel Precious, Adenegbe Hope Osaze, Kennedy Emma, Terry Edorodion, Edosa Rollins, Miller Ikuobase, Godwin Kelechi., Ogbolu Israel Uche, Okpodu Samson, Awosadere Daniel, Samuel Asenguah, Ugo Nweke, Charles Irengunju, ThankGod Udofa, Erickson Ororisela, Asemota Terry, Enaboakpe Robert, Odili Wisdom and Osawaru Martins.

Items recovered from the suspects include six exotic cars, laptop computers, mobile phones, documents and identity cards

The suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as investigations are completed

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/efcc-arrests-52-alleged-internet-fraudsters-in-benin-city/

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on community leaders to talk to their youths and warn them against being used to incite and foment violence.

A statement by Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President, Garba Shehu, quoted Buhari as condemning attacks on security institutions and personnel saying it leaves citizens vulnerable.

“If we attack institutions guarding us who will protect us in future emergencies?”

President Buhari also condoled with all who lost family members due to what he described as the ‘madness’ going on in parts of the country.

Meanwhile, the President would observe low key Eid Al-Fitr, a day set aside to mark the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting.

Shehu said Buhari, the First Family, his personal aides, members of cabinet and service chiefs who choose to remain in Abuja would congregate in full compliance with COVID-19 protocols at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa to observe the Eid prayers.

Read Also: Kidnapping, killing now a norm in Nigeria ― Wike

“Time fixed for the prayer is 9:00 am. Thereafter, there will be no traditional Sallah homage to the President by religious, community and political leaders. As was the case last year, the President encourages such leaders to be content with modest celebrations at home in view of the pandemic.

“President Buhari especially thank the Ulama (Islamic clerics) and all other religious leaders who continue to pray for the wellbeing of the nation and its people.”

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/president-orders-low-key-eid-celebration/

No fewer than 28 states are likely to experience severe flooding this year, announced yesterday.

Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, who spoke at the public presentation of the 2021 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) in Abuja said 302 local government areas in 36 states including the Federal Capital Territory ( FCT) would fall within moderate flood risk areas while 121 LGAs in 28 states will be within the high-risk areas.

He listed the states to include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, FCT, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba and Zamfara.

The minister noted that the 2012 flood caused massive destruction of lives and property across the country. This, he noted, necessitated putting in place a proper mechanism to prepare Nigerians to confront the disaster whenever it occurred.

According to him, the NIHSA forecasts have increased the awareness in the citizenry and led to taking measures to prevent severe flood damage.

“This year, we will be grappling with the two threats of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the impending floods as predicted in the AFO.

“The flood projections show varying severity across parts of the country. In summary, the 2021 AFO forecast indicates that 302 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in 36 states including the FCT will fall within the moderate probable flood risk areas.

“It is expected from the forecast that 121 LGAs in 28 states will fall within the highly probable risk areas. The states surrounding Rivers Niger and Benue are, without doubt, going to experience severe flooding.

“Floods come with attendant health risks through the contamination of potable water sources. The 2021 flooding will be exacerbated by the continuing ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.

The minister urged Nigerians to do all within their power to give succour to the populace grappling with the twin problems.

Director-General of the NIHSA, Clement Nze, stressed the need for state and local governments to restore rivers to their natural courses and reduce indiscriminate encroachment on waterways.

He expressed worry over the refusal by some states to adhere to early warnings about floods and said it had resulted in the devastating effects being recorded annually in parts of the country.

Nze stressed that enforcement of town planning codes in the country would go a long way to managing the construction of houses and drainage appropriately.

“We are calling on states to relocate people that live in waterways and flood plains.

“They should desilt their rivers, drainage and water channels. Removal of refuse, weeds and water hyacinth is very important,” he said.

Meanwhile, Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr Mohammadu Muhammed, has called for the proper utilisation of the nation’s dams to curtail flooding in the country.

He said one of the lessons learnt from the 2020 flood occurrence was the need for prevention and effective use of dams during dry season farming.

“One of the lessons learnt during the 2020 flood After Action Review meeting is the need for proper utilisation of our dams in the country.

“When dams meant for irrigation purposes are used for dry season agriculture, they acquire more capacities to hold more water in the rainy season.

“In addition, a timely controlled release of water from dams will reduce the panic release of water during the rainy season that can lead to further flooding.”

The DG said the agency was working to ensure that states and communities that were vulnerable to flood received early warnings, through community engagement, television programmes, education and communication materials.

Read Also: Lawan commiserates with Adeboye over son’s death

He said within the last year, the COVID-19 pandemic had reduced the abilities of states and communities to cope with climate-induced disasters, thus imposing more burden on the Federal Government agencies to mitigate and respond to the disasters.

Muhammed said in spite of the gloomy outlook of the pandemic, advocacy and engagement with stakeholders in 2020 led to the reduction in the negative impact of floods on the people.

“A total of 2,353,647 people were affected by flood disasters with 69 lives lost, compared to the 158 loss of lives in 2019.”

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/28-states-at-risk-of-severe-flooding-says-minister-for-water-resources/

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has said the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government and that of his predecessor, Goodluck Jonathan, paid ransom to kidnappers and bandits but denied it.

Obasanjo, who said he does not believe in payment of ransom to kidnappers and banditry, charged the government to develop means of dealing with kidnappers and bandits heavily instead of ransom payment.

The former President opined that leaders must ensure 2023 birth the emergence of a new federation in Nigeria, saying “otherwise the country may be sliding into ground dissolution.”

He spoke on Wednesday at his Penthouse residence within Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while playing host to members of Tiv professionals Group (TPG) led by Prof Zacharys Anger Gundu.

“I do believe that whatever else we do we have to make the year 2023 a watershed for Nigeria. The year 2023 should give us the beginning of the emergence of a new federation or feeling that the rot continues, and then, we are going to be sliding back to a ground dissolution. God forbid,” the former President said.

The former President equally insisted that it requires a “carrot and stick” approach to fight insecurity challenges to a standstill.

He said “Some people are still reaching out, and hoping that lives can still be saved. But a situation whereby anybody thinks paying the ransom is the way out, that person is folly. He is a folly. This is because when you pay the ransom, you encourage. But if you are not going to pay the ransom, you must have the means to deal heavily with it. You must have the stick to deal with it.

“Government has always paid the ransom. Not only this government, even during Jonathan (administration). They paid the ransom, but they denied it.”

Presenting a paper earlier, the leader of the group, Prof Zacharys Anger Gundu told Obasanjo that “blood is flowing in Benue State” following killings of the people allegedly by Fulanis and bandits.

He said people are being maimed in their sleep and on their ancestral land, calling on Obasanjo and other influential Nigerians to rise to the occasion to stem the tide of killings.

While alleging skewed security architecture, Gundu said “Nigeria seems to be losing the battle against insecurity.

He, however, demanded that full compensation for the victims of killings and destruction in Tiv land, proscription of armed Fulani groups, while “land grabbing must stop and all occupied lands must be vacated.”

Gundu also called for intensified advocacy against nomadic pastoralism and hosting the “all Nationalities Summit” where issues would be discussed with a view to finding lasting solutions.

Read Also: Illegal Oil Bunkerers: EFCC arrests six suspects in Port Harcourt

He said “There are different shades of instability in the country. Nigeria is truly bleeding to death. There’s even a population fault-line that could lead to the ‘Lebanon Trap’

“All Patriots must stand together; but if others have to be enslaved before the country can survive, we will prefer, as Tiv people, to take our destiny in our hands.”

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/ransom-payment-encourages-banditry-abductions-says-obasanjo/

Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, Owa Ooye of Okemesi-Ekiti, says traditional powers, known in local parlance as “African Juju’, have the potency of ending the current spate of kidnappings and other crimes in the country.

The Oba made this known in Okemesi-Ekiti, Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti, at a news briefing preceding the grand finale of the 2021 biennial Okemesi Cultural Festival, slated for Saturday, May 8.

Adedeji, a former Chairman of Ekiti Council of Obas, said it would therefore be wrong and erroneous for the people to abandon their belief in such alternative means of curbing crimes.

According to him, optimal use of African traditional powers will help in checkmating activities of bandits, especially wanton killings and kidnappings, which now occur almost on a daily basis in many parts of the country.

He said, for instance, no traditional ruler could be kidnapped so cheaply, except those who had made the mistake of jettisoning their beliefs in African charms and powers.

The Oba pointed out that culture has become a veritable source of income to many nations, saying the story should not be different in Nigeria.

He appealed to the government to upgrade the Okemesi Cultural Festival, where the popular legendary masquerade, ‘Oladunwo’, was usually unveiled for residents, visitors and tourists to watch.

“Attacks on traditional rulers are becoming too disturbing. How can bandits be kidnapping or shooting a traditional ruler dead just like that?

”I believe that going traditional will curb these senseless killings and therefore not out of place.

“In the days of the old, there were wars, and we had unique ways of fighting them and winning. Some people don’t believe in it, because new-found religions have taken over and reduced our faith in traditional power.

“Some traditional rulers say they can’t use charms to protect themselves, this is hypocrisy.

Read Also: El-Rufai: Jonathan, Yar’Adua persecuted me because they saw me as a threat

“We are custodians of tradition and not wasters. Why are we running away from our tradition? How can an Oba be killed or kidnapped like a chicken? I find it appalling and difficult to believe.

“It is not only the Obas, all of us must work hard to protect ourselves. Our forebears believed in God.

“When did this insecurity start? Obas must get involved in the tradition. Now I am happy that a lot of people are going back to that time of the old to defend themselves,” he added.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/insecurity-ekiti-oba-advocates-use-of-traditional-powers-to-tackle-banditry/

The Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai has said former President Goodluck Jonathan almost imprisoned him because he thought he was against his second term ambition.

El-Rufai made this claim in an interview with The Point.

According to him, although Jonathan was his very close friend, he persecuted him because of what those in his close circle told him.

El-Rufai claimed this persecution started in 2006 when he was Minister of the FCT, Abuja.

“Jonathan was convinced by his own circle that I was a threat and if he was going for a second term in office, he had to take me out of the race.

“And so, Jonathan continued the persecution that Yar’adua started.

Read Also: Firefighters not safe in Nigeria, FFS boss cries out

“I have been associated with running for President since 2005, 2006, about 15 years. I have suffered for this. I’ve even been exiled for it and Jonathan tried to put me in prison for it.

“My name is mentioned with regard to presidential aspiration has been on since 2006, since I was running the FCT, Abuja. People were speculating that the then President, Olusegun Obasanjo, was preparing to hand over to me. It was part of the reasons I was exiled,” he said.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/el-rufai-jonathan-yaradua-persecuted-me-because-they-saw-me-as-a-threat/

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha, has urged Nigerians to disregard any invitation to submit their Curriculum Vitae for appointment into various government parastatal agencies.

Mustapha made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by Mr Willie Bassey Director Information, office of the SGF.

“The information circulating on social media through emails, text messages, urging members of the public to submit their CVs at a fee, to a non-existing desk at the SFG’s office for appointments is false.

“The SGF has also observed with dismay, that such fraudsters have become so desperate to such an extent that they resort to sending fake advertisements for the supply of some medical diagnostic equipment to his office, ” he said.

Read Also: Police arrest man with human head and hands in Kwara

Mustapha added that his office had neither advertised for the procurement of medical diagnostic equipment of any sort.

“In view of the above, the SGF warns originators of such fraudulent requests to desist forthwith from using his office to fleece unsuspecting members of the public or face the wrath of the law, ” Mustapha warned.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/disregard-invitation-to-submit-cvs-for-appointment-sgf-tell-nigerians/

The United Nations has disclosed that no fewer than 22,000 Nigerian children get infected with HIV annually.

The UN made the statement on Tuesday at the National dialogue meeting for the prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV in Nigeria, otherwise known as vertical transmission of HIV.

Speaking on behalf of the UN was Mr Claes Johansson, Chief of management for results, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), who described the meeting as a crucial one for Nigeria to continue onward dialogue on what can be done and the ways of eliminating the vertical transmission of HIV.

“We are working within a framework to map out a strategy that we will work with for the next five years along with Nigeria.

“Ending the vertical transmission of HIV AIDS is one of the key actions that will also help end pandemics, which is what the global world is looking forward to.

“However, we have so much to do, and a long way to go, especially with the mother-to-child-transmission (PMTCT) taking about 32% and one out of seven being infected on a monthly basis is a Nigerian with about 22,000 infected yearly.

“This is a situation that is simply not acceptable, and for all these children who get infected, about two-thirds of them do not get treatment.

Read Also: Disregard invitation to submit CVs for an appointment, SGF tell Nigerians

“So, we in the global community want the Nigerian government to tell us what their sustainable strategic plans are and what they need to eliminate vertical transmission. The UN and its affiliated agencies and bodies are always willing to help Nigeria put an end to PMTCT.

“Let us know your priorities so that we can assist and help map out strong, sustainable ways to eliminate vertical transmission,” Johansson said.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/un-says-22000-nigerian-children-get-infected-with-hiv-annually/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZQGG7lpM_M

I had a dream of a kidnap days before my sister was abducted, Dorathy's sister narrates in tears


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYBZtYCijV8

The case of Baba Ijesha defiling a teenager has gotten the attention of the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

In the past few days, heated arguments have ensued between entertainers in Nigeria as they expressed divergent views on the matter.

While some appeared sympathetic to Baba Ijesha’s plight, others are drumming support in the fight for justice for the defiled minor.

Dabiri-Erewa in a thread on Twitter described the act by Baba Ijesha as despicable.

She demanded support for the victim’s foster mother, Princess, noting that his plea should not be accepted and that maximum sentence must be passed on him.

Her tweet read: “ So despicable! The act by Yoruba actor, Baba Ijesha who defied a girl, at 7 and later at 14 years!! Who knows how many the paedophile could have damaged if he was not caught. I sponsored the violence against a person’s law. The penalty is nothing less than 14 years in prison.

“His plea bargain on some video I watched should not be acceptable. We should all do all we can to support the girl’s foster mother, Princess, to ensure this case goes to court, fully tried and maximum sentence passed on him.”

Read Also: Opinion: Nigeria will fly again: We can believe Kumuyi, by Femi Adesina

Meanwhile, the Lagos Police Commissioner, Hakeem Odumosu, on Thursday, while giving an update on the matter said the allegation against Baba Ijesha was on a sexual and indecent assault which is bailable, and not defilement.

He debunked the news that Baba Ijesha would be released soon, adding that he was still being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Panti, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/child-molestation-baba-ijesha-is-so-despicable-abike-dabiri-erewa/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09aqs5JuujM

very corrupt set of people

evolution4434:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXSTAfBJ1LM

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed hope that Nigeria would overcome its security and other challenges.

Obasanjo said he is an incurable optimist who believes in Nigeria and that the country will overcome its many challenges.

He spoke on Wednesday at the 108th annual convention of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) in Ogun State where Governor Dapo Abiodun and his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde were in attendance.

The former president said though Nigeria’s current situation might be tough, the country would surely overcome.

He also called for peace, unity, and end to violence in the country.

Referring to both governors in attendance, Obasanjo said: “My two brothers talked about the situation we are in.

“You know, I am an incurable optimist about a number of things, but particularly about Nigeria.”

Nigeria is currently battling with the issue of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and farmers/herdsmen crisis.

Read Also: Police denies reports of attack by bandits at University of Abuja

The insecurity issue has led to the death of many Nigerians.

Bandits, in recent times have made educational sector their major target with several students abducted and killed.
source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/insecurity-wont-consume-nigeria-obasanjo-assures/

A member of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and former Aide to Adams Oshiomhole, Prince Kassim Afegbua, has made true his promise to subject the leadership of the Uche Secondus-led PDP to financial scrutiny by submitting a petition to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Afegbua, who stormed the EFCC and ICPC offices on Monday at about 10.30 am handed over his petition asking the EFCC to look into the financial transactions of the National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, in the spirit of transparency, accountability, and book-keeping in line with the existing anti-corruption laws, noting that much of the financial transactions of the PDP under Prince Uche Secondus has been shrouded in mystery, accusing the leadership of deliberate attempt to shortchange the party in the build-up to the 2023 general elections.

In the petition, Afegbua is asking the anti-graft agencies to look into and scrutinize close to N10bn that allegedly accrued to the party’s purse from 2017 till date especially those that were as a result of sales of nomination forms for Presidential, Gubernatorial, House of Assembly and Senatorial elections, saying as an opposition party, the leadership should lead by example by ensuring that there is transparency and accountability.

He specifically accused the National Chairman, Uche Secondus of not living up to the expectations of strengthening the party to play its formidable role as a virile opposition party, adding that, avoiding the use of the party’s bank accounts and resorting to the use of one MORUFU NIGERIA LIMITED allegedly as a conduit pipe for financial mismanagement in the sales of forms in 2019 was an aberration.

Read Also: Buhari urges U.S. to consider Africa military base to fight insecurity

He called on the EFCC and ICPC Chairmen to urgently ensure that due diligence is carried out to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy and guarantee the interest of the party’s overwhelming members, adding that in the event that the anti-graft agency delays in carrying out its investigation, he would have no option but to seek legal redress in the law court.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/afegbua-asks-efcc-icpc-to-probe-pdp-over-alleged-corruption/

How top Nollywood actor, Baba Ijesha, raped my foster child - Comedian Princess


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwJeQGZnYhU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ArXrt464oAI

How Senate resolved to probe CCT Chairman over alleged assault on security guard in Abuja

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXPx0pfAwbY

The Nigerian Senate has directed its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, to probe the alleged killing of some Nigerian nationals of Enugu State origin resident in the Republic of Togo.

This followed a petition to the upper legislative Chamber by Concerned Igbo-Eze North Youths, presented by former Deputy President of the Senate and former Speaker of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, at Senate plenary on Wednesday.

In the petition entitled: “Complaint Against the Gruesome Killing of Our Indigenes/Citizens in Togo” and signed by Solomon Onu and Witness Asoanya, Convener and the Secretary-General, respectively, the body called the attention of the Senate to the alleged murder of Mr Sabastine Onyeneke, Nnamdi Odo, and Ogbuanya Nathaniel in the West African country within a spate of few months.

“First, on 24th January 2021, Mr Ossai Sabastine Onyeneke, a 39-year old young man, was strangled and stabbed to death at Lome, Togo. Until his death, Mr Sabastine worked with the Swedish Maritime business giant, Bureau Veritas, situate in De L’cam, Togo.

“As if that was not enough, on 6th February 2021, the life of one Nnamdi Odo from Umu-Agama community, also in Igbo-Eze North LGA, was cut short in another provocative act of killing in the Agoyi part of Togo.

“It is noteworthy that apart from these more recent two incidents this year, in November 2020, one young boy named Ogbuanya Nathaniel from Obimo in Nsukka LGA, was also murdered in Togo”, the group narrated.

It added that it was very pained by the failure of the Nigerian government, particularly the Nigerian Embassy in Lome, to protest the killings of the Togolese authorities.

It consequently appealed to the Senate to step in to unravel the killings and ensure that justice was served.

“In all of this, it is most annoying and saddening that the Federal authorities have not protested to the Togolese government to know why we should be losing innocent and promising young men almost on monthly basis.

“We, therefore, humbly implore the Senate to mandate and compel the Nigerian Embassy in Togo and, in fact, the Togolese authorities and government to thoroughly investigate these most recent killings and ensure that those behind them are brought to book and that justice is seen to be done”, it stated.

Describing people of Igbo-Eze North and Enugu in general as “peaceful, accommodating, and faithful”, the group observed that it did not make sense that foreigners, including Togo nationals, resident in Nigeria went about their businesses unmolested, whereas Nigerians in Togo were being targeted and killed.

Read Also: Fed Govt cautions elites promoting disintegration

While denouncing all forms of criminality by any Nigerian, Concerned Igbo-Eze North Youths, however, stressed that should any Nigerian be found wanting, the laws of their host countries must not only be followed but also must be seen to have been fairly applied.

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions has two weeks to investigate the matter and report back to the Senate.

source: https://newstrack.oak.tv/senate-investigates-alleged-killing-of-nigerians-in-togo/

It is long overdue, Gbajabiamila calls for urgent review of Nigeria’s foreign policies

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_x3iDQGqzM