IMPEACHMENT: ODU TOO HONOURABLE, DECENT TO BE INVOLVED IN PETTY POLITICS

MEDIA TEAM

The ReportsOctober 14, 2023

The media team of the Secretary to Government of Ondo State, Princess Oladunni Catherine Odu (POCO), has denied rumours making the rounds that she is involved in the tribulations of the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Some media reports and street gossips have been pointing accusing fingers at the SSG for playing covert roles in the impeachment proceedings commenced against the deputy governor by the State Assembly.

The SSG’s media team, in a statement made available to TheReports, said “Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu is a responsible, decent, reserved woman who avoids joining issues with anyone no matter the level of provocation”.

The team described their principal as “an honourable woman and politician who has no time for pettiness”.

They appealed to those behind such rumours to “deliberately avoid heating the polity with unfounded, baseless reports capable of tarnishing one another’s image because of elections”.

The full text of the statement is reproduced below:

Ondo SSG, Odu; an honourable woman and politician who has no time for pettiness

It is shocking that so much mud has been thrown on the Secretary to Ondo State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu in recent times, especially since the process to impeach the Deputy Governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa started, and for any serious minded person, it is clear that people who are completely uninformed, put together those reports which demean the level of intelligence ascribed to the highly educated, highly exposed and very knowledgeable people of the state.

It is obvious that authors of those write ups operate on the same level as their sponsors, and at this point it is necessary to call them to order, ask them to deal with whatever issues they have and stop looking for people to link their woes to.

Every serious minded and right thinking citizen of Ondo state knows that Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu is a responsible, decent, reserved woman who avoids joining issues with anyone no matter the level of provocation.

She is royalty and is therefore guided by the need to conduct herself with class, honour and distinction

At this point it is necessary to state that anyone who is conversant with governance in Ondo state will know that;

Governor Akeredolu loves his Deputy too deeply, so much that no human being could possibly come between them. He has never hidden his unquestionable love for his Deputy

Since assuming office, Governor Akeredolu rarely skips his annual leave, and each time he was on leave he would hand over to his Deputy through communication to the House of Assembly and thereafter give the Acting Governor a free hand to run the state.

While the search for a Deputy Governor for Governor Akeredolu’s second term was on, the Governor made it clear to all that choosing a Deputy would be done solely by him without interference from anywhere, so the mischievous writers must understand that Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa was the Governor’s beloved ally

Most of the issues raised by the House of Assembly for the Deputy Governor’s impeachment are issues around his job , and so could not have been influenced by anybody.

It is therefore important to appeal to political jobbers to stop maligning the person of the SSG, and linking her to the Deputy Governor’s travails.

We wish to emphasize that the SSG respects the person and office of the incumbent Deputy Governor and would never do anything to bring his person or office to disrepute.

We must deliberately avoid heating the polity with unfounded, baseless reports capable of tarnishing one another’s image because of elections.

God bless Ondo state.

E-Signed:

POCO Media Team

HON AKOGUN WALE RAJI ANOMO THE IKOSI EJIRIN LCDA BOSS TALK ON YOUTH MATTERS TODAY 12/08/2023 THE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY

By Ayekooto

On the occasion of International Youth Day, Hon Akogun Wale Raji Anomo takes this opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable potentials and endowments of the youth in Lagos State. He celebrates their resilience, grit, determination, creativity, dedication, and valuable contributions to the socio-economic development of the state.

The youth of Lagos State possess immense talent and promise, and Akogun Wale Raji Anomo recognizes the importance of channeling their energy and potential into sustainable development. He values their aspirations, dreams, and ideas, and believes in providing them with the necessary support, resources, and opportunities to thrive.

Over the years, through series of youth empowerment initiatives, Hon Akogun Wale Raji Anomo has impacted many lives positively. 

His altruistic personality has been a source of succour, hope, inspiration and motivation to the young generation. 

In Lagos State, the council boss has continued to encourage and invest in youth-led initiatives across various fields of endeavour. 

Hon Wale believes strongly that the vigour, initiatives, creativity, and can-do spirit of the youth are key to societal advancement.

While celebrating his tremendous benevolence  and support for the youth, the ageless words of Ludwig Burne "Goodwill is the one and only asset that competition cannot undersell or destroy" cements our belief and unbridled confidence in Akogun Wale in harnessing the potentials of the youths, as an instrument to developing our dear Lagos State.

Happy International Youth Day!

©️ Wale Anomo Media Assembly

Those wishing Akeredolu dead will die before him - Jimoh Ibrahim

By Ayekooto

Billionaire business mogul and Senator representing Ondo South, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim has declared that those wishing Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu dead would die before him.

Piqued by the way Akeredolu’s health was turned to national discourse, Senator Ibrahim said those who wished the governor dead would die before him.

He wondered why the medical issue of Akeredolu was turned to something out of this world as if he’s the first to fall sick.

He said: “I want to express my displeasure in the way people are talking about Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu:’s health as if he’s the first public officeHolders to fall sick.

“We are all in this country when former President Muhammadu Buhari was out of the country for medical attention for about six months.

“I can bet you, those wicked and evil people who are wishing Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu dead will die before him by God’s grace

Princess Dr Toyin Kolade Iyalaje Odua felicitate Muslim faithful on Eid-el- kabir celebration .

By Ayekooto

 Iyalaje Odua Dr Toyin Kolade, join million of voices to felicitate and extend esteem greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters across the country on this occasion of Eid-el-kabir celebration. 

It's indeed mandated on the occasion of this EId that we beseech Allah to protect us and grant us success in all our human endeavoures .

Dr Toyin Kolade understands the  peculiarities of good governance to the people of our dear  country.

Yeye Dr Toyin Kolade Iyalaje Odua is  a  business mogul from Osun state. She has the  link to the future and also identifying with the young  generation on innovative capacity building .

Once again, happy  EId - El -kabir celebration to all our Muslim faithfuls.

 Iyalaje Odua media team 

Criteria for Tinubu’s cabinet must be competence, character – Ehinlanwo. 

By Ayekooto

Dr Soji Ehinlanwo (DSE) is a senior Information Technology and Management Consultant and Governorship candidate of the Defunct CPC in the 2012 Ondo Governorship election. He has been described as the leading gubernatorial hopeful in respect of the impending 2024 Ondo state Governorship election. In this interview, Dr Ehinlanwo bared his mind on a range of national and Ondo state issues. Excerpts:

Let’s be clear, this subsidy regime had been brought to an end by the previous administration of President Muhammudu Buhari – with a clear end date set as the end of June. The Buhari administration removed the oil subsidy for quite justifiable reasons – which included the fact that it had become corrupted with significant fleecing of funds as well as because the serious revenue challenges of government had made it in practicable to channel funds which could otherwise have been used to stimulate growth in other areas to a broken system which largely provided undue benefits to the privileged few. President Bola Tinubu merely confirmed in his inauguration speech this removal. I think what is imperative right now is that all stakeholders including government at all levels and the trade unions work together assiduously with a comprehensive and robust plan that intervenes significantly in ameliorating or mitigating the challenges or hardships that will be encountered by a large bulk of Nigerians – particularly the most vulnerable amongst us – as a fall out from this subsidy removal.

It is important to consolidate on the efforts of the current administration to leverage on the power of Agriculture as an important source of revenue for individuals and govt. Govt must provide increased and more comprehensive support to ensure that there is a massive mobilisation of investments back to the farms in a way that Ondo state becomes the best state in terms of Agricultural exports and internal food production. The advantage of this is that this will help to create much more jobs, albeit in a different area, distinct from the civil service, potentially increase government revenue and ensure greater food self sufficiency.

It is also important for us to find ways and means – as a matter of urgency – to fully leverage on the natural resources within the state such as Bitumen, natural gas, granite, gold, marble, gemstones, coal, palm kernel, cocoa etc. We must elicit and encourage private sector investments in these areas to create jobs and stimulate further economic growth in these non-civil service sectors.

The current Government has made significant investments in infrastructure development – particularly in relation to roads, health facilities etc. In recent times, it is now committed to the building of a seaport in Ilaje.  Consolidating on the myriad of infrastructural opportunities including the deep seaport should be a major priority, as a way of expanding and significantly enhancing growth as well as creating and widening job opportunities

Finally, it would be imperative to vigorously push for greater focus and investments in the tourism potentials of the state including investment and development of tourism sites such as Araromi seaside in Ilaje, Idanre hills, Oke Maria’s Hills in Akoko, Olowo’s Palace in Owo, Cave of Ashes on the outskirt of Akure and the Owo museum to mention a few.

As I have hinted above, the economic blueprint would focus on a greater opening and mobilisation of investments in Agriculture and the vigorous development of the natural resources’ potential of the state. It will also encompass greater infrastructure development including importantly the push and vigour to deliver on the Ondo seaport aspiration. Greater focus and investments in Ondo state tourism potentials will also be an integral part of the economic blueprint mix. There will also be a consolidation of the gains of the Industrial hub. Importantly, there will be a significant drive to make Ondo state a strong information technology hub where the talents of our youths can be developed and enhanced to bring to Ondo state the prosperity associated with information technology deployment and the digitization era. It is important to ensure that the successes achieved with the security outfit – Amotekun – by this administration is enhanced and expanded – as security is pivotal to our economic development aspirations.  All of these should have the effect of significantly enhancing growth, boosting revenue, and expanding youth and women employment – an important focus of the economic blueprint.

One of the first statement made by the President shortly after his election was that he would be seeking to constitute a team of “national competence”. This is as it should be, and I was very impressed by this statement of the President. So, I expect him to bring on board very competent Nigerians – with a strong background of professional accomplishments and who can deliver significant value. I also expect him to draw in people who have had some good record of legitimate achievements and have deep insights in respect of the challenges of the country and possible solutions. Finally, I will be trusting that he will bring into government folks adjudged to be in good standing in respect of character, with a reputation for seeking to do, at all times, that which is right.

I think the President should continue with and expand on the agriculture development initiatives of President Buhari. I also think he should consolidate on the impressive infrastructure development initiatives and successes of the Buhari administration – such as the rail expansion initiatives. There is a raft of other initiatives of the Buhari Administration – which space will not permit me to itemise – which I think he should continue with. However, I think before continuing with them, he should do some review to ensure that they are better tailored to deliver on the goals set. In respect of policies which he should discard, I think the land border closure policy should be reversed – to enable greater trade – while still ensuring that they are properly manned. It seems that process has already started.  Also, I think a more robust initiative should be put in place replacing the trader Moni policy.

I think if we want to have a better participatory democracy, it is imperative that we allow for diaspora voting. Several countries allow for this including African countries like South Africa, Ghana, and Kenya. It is disappointing that this is yet to take off in respect of Nigeria. There should be a constitutional amendment allowing for this and proper processes should be put in place to ensure that willing Nigerians living in the Diaspora are allowed to vote during subsequent elections.

Dr Soji Ehinlanwo (DSE) is a senior Information Technology and Management Consultant and Governorship candidate of the Defunct CPC in the 2012 Ondo Governorship election. He has been described as the leading gubernatorial hopeful in respect of the impending 2024 Ondo state Governorship election. In this interview, Dr Ehinlanwo bared his mind on a range of national and Ondo state issues. Excerpts:

Let’s be clear, this subsidy regime had been brought to an end by the previous administration of President Muhammudu Buhari – with a clear end date set as the end of June. The Buhari administration removed the oil subsidy for quite justifiable reasons – which included the fact that it had become corrupted with significant fleecing of funds as well as because the serious revenue challenges of government had made it in practicable to channel funds which could otherwise have been used to stimulate growth in other areas to a broken system which largely provided undue benefits to the privileged few. President Bola Tinubu merely confirmed in his inauguration speech this removal. I think what is imperative right now is that all stakeholders including government at all levels and the trade unions work together assiduously with a comprehensive and robust plan that intervenes significantly in ameliorating or mitigating the challenges or hardships that will be encountered by a large bulk of Nigerians – particularly the most vulnerable amongst us – as a fall out from this subsidy removal.

It is important to consolidate on the efforts of the current administration to leverage on the power of Agriculture as an important source of revenue for individuals and govt. Govt must provide increased and more comprehensive support to ensure that there is a massive mobilisation of investments back to the farms in a way that Ondo state becomes the best state in terms of Agricultural exports and internal food production. The advantage of this is that this will help to create much more jobs, albeit in a different area, distinct from the civil service, potentially increase government revenue and ensure greater food self sufficiency.

It is also important for us to find ways and means – as a matter of urgency – to fully leverage on the natural resources within the state such as Bitumen, natural gas, granite, gold, marble, gemstones, coal, palm kernel, cocoa etc. We must elicit and encourage private sector investments in these areas to create jobs and stimulate further economic growth in these non-civil service sectors.

The current Government has made significant investments in infrastructure development – particularly in relation to roads, health facilities etc. In recent times, it is now committed to the building of a seaport in Ilaje.  Consolidating on the myriad of infrastructural opportunities including the deep seaport should be a major priority, as a way of expanding and significantly enhancing growth as well as creating and widening job opportunities

Finally, it would be imperative to vigorously push for greater focus and investments in the tourism potentials of the state including investment and development of tourism sites such as Araromi seaside in Ilaje, Idanre hills, Oke Maria’s Hills in Akoko, Olowo’s Palace in Owo, Cave of Ashes on the outskirt of Akure and the Owo museum to mention a few.

As I have hinted above, the economic blueprint would focus on a greater opening and mobilisation of investments in Agriculture and the vigorous development of the natural resources’ potential of the state. It will also encompass greater infrastructure development including importantly the push and vigour to deliver on

 the Ondo seaport aspiration. Greater focus and investments in Ondo state tourism potentials will also be an integral part of the economic blueprint mix. There will also be a consolidation of the gains of the Industrial hub. Importantly, there will be a significant drive to make Ondo state a strong information technology hub where the talents of our youths can be developed and enhanced to bring to Ondo state the prosperity associated with information technology deployment and the digitization era. It is important to ensure that the successes achieved with the security outfit – Amotekun – by this administration is enhanced and expanded – as security is pivotal to our economic development aspirations.  All of these should have the effect of significantly enhancing growth, boosting revenue, and expanding youth and women employment – an important focus of the economic blueprint.

One of the first statement made by the President shortly after his election was that he would be seeking to constitute a team of “national competence”. This is as it should be, and I was very impressed by this statement of the President. So, I expect him to bring on board very competent Nigerians – with a strong background of professional accomplishments and who can deliver significant value. I also expect him to draw in people who have had some good record of legitimate achievements and have deep insights in respect of the challenges of the country and possible solutions. Finally, I will be trusting that he will bring into government folks adjudged to be in good standing in respect of character, with a reputation for seeking to do, at all times, that which is right.

I think the President should continue with and expand on the agriculture development initiatives of President Buhari. I also think he should consolidate on the impressive infrastructure development initiatives and successes of the Buhari administration – such as the rail expansion initiatives. There is a raft of other initiatives of the Buhari Administration – which space will not permit me to itemise – which I think he should continue with. However, I think before continuing with them, he should do some review to ensure that they are better tailored to deliver on the goals set. In respect of policies which he should discard, I think the land border closure policy should be reversed – to enable greater trade – while still ensuring that they are properly manned. It seems that process has already started.  Also, I think a more robust initiative should be put in place replacing the trader Moni policy.

I think if we want to have a better participatory democracy, it is imperative that we allow for diaspora voting. Several countries allow for this including African countries like South Africa, Ghana, and Kenya. It is disappointing that this is yet to take off in respect of Nigeria. There should be a constitutional amendment allowing for this and proper processes should be put in place to ensure that willing Nigerians living in the Diaspora are allowed to vote during subsequent elections.

BREAKING: I release 500 billion every month by Buhari order into Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs headed by Sadiya Umar Faruq to reduce poverty in the country - Godwin Emefiele

By our correspondent 

------------------------------------

BREAKING NEWS!

3 EX MINISTERS ARE TO REPORT TO EFCC OFFICE ON THE 13TH-06-2023

-Mal. Abubakar Malami- Former Attorney General & Minister of Justice

-Alh. Hadi Sirika- Minister of Aviation

-HAJIYA SADIYA UMAR FARUQ - Minister of Humanitarian 

EFCC working Towards Evaluation, Transparency & Accountability.

------------------------------------

FRAUD IN BUHARI GOVT AS N1.5 TRILLION,  $9 BILLION TRACED TO NIMASA BOSS, BASHIR JAMOH’S PERSONAL ACCOUNTS

United Kingdom investigators have bursted another corruption scandal in the President Muhammadu Buhari led administration involving the Managing Director, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Bashir Jamoh, where various sums including N1.5 Trillion and another $9,557,312.50 have been traced to his personal accounts.

 

Pointblanknews.com investigation revealed that N1.5 Trillion was found in a Fidelity Account 4020949836 linked to Bashir Jamoh, who is also the father-in-law of Sabiu Yusuf aka Tunde, President Muhammadu Buhari’s Personal Assistant.

Curiously, the Fidelity account with N1, 505,890,450,000.67 has Hamza Ibrahim Jamoh with BVN   22151837650 and Cell phone number 08034517410. While the BVN number revealed a different identity, the cell phone linked to the account is linked to the DG of NIMASA, Jamoh, according to Pointblanknews.com investigations.

Pointblanknews.com investigations revealed that the N1.5trillion was after few months cleared from the account to avoid investigations on the lodgment of such huge amount.

In a  four page document titled due diligent report on Bashiru Yusuf Jamoh, the Director-General NIMASA, which pointblanknews.com has copies, the report exposed another lodgment of $9,557,312.50 into Access Bank account 0710814478 also belonging to him.

The investigation also exposed other infractions by the agency’s boss which also include award of contracts to companies which he has interest in.

The investigation, according to the report focused on fraud, money laundering and breach of the Nigeria code of conduct act. This same investigation, it stated spans across all the Agencies under the Ministry of Transport having started with the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA.

GLOBAL INVESTIGATORS UNITED KINGDOM, the investigation agency that signed the report investigated the bank transactions of Alhaji Jamoh focusing on inflows/Credit and Debits on his bank statements.

It found the transaction’s records of BASHIR YUSUF JAMOH showing the payment of $9,557,312.50 (Nine million, five hundred and fifty-seven thousand, three hundred and twelve dollars and fifty cents) into his personal accounts from Central Bank of Nigeria in violation of the Treasury Single Account, TSA.

“Most baffling is that CBN transferred millions of dollars into the personal account of BASHIR YUSUF JAMOH.

“Records shows the withdrawal of $5,425,200.00 (Five million, Four hundred and twenty-five thousand and two hundred dollars only) by CASH WITHDRAWAL from ACCESS Bank, Burma Road, Apapa, Lagos.

“BASHIR YUSUF JAMOH set up a company TALENT EXPERTISE INTL. LIMITED with RN: 1488830 to solicit for jobs from NIMASA. Being the director of a company and awarding contract to own company in violation of the code of conduct act section 3 part of the Third Schedule of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and code of conduct for public officers involved in procurement, Part X1, section 57, Sub-section (2) of the Procurement Act, 2007.”

According to the report, BIXBY OIL LIMITED has also paid money into his account, and the following payment into the account of the company was captured.

BANK: GUARANTEE TRUST BANK PLC

ACCOUNT NO: 0423084514

ACCOUNT NAME: TALENT EXPERTISE INTL. LIMITED CUSTOMER ADDRESS: 6, EKET CLOSE, AREA 8 GARKI, FCT ABUJA CURRENCY: NAIRA

TRANSACTION DATE: 06/06/2019

TRANSACTION AMOUNT: N37,516,363.63 MILLION TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION: CREDIT/INFLOW

FROM: R 304741016 DEPARTMENT NIMASA

PURPOSE: COURSE FEE FOR CAPACITY BUILDING TRAINING TRANSACTION REF: 930474101602050146461375163636

SERIOUS SUSPICIOUS TRANSACTIONS

ACCESS BANK PLC

ACCOUNT NO: 0710814478

CURRENCY: UNITED STATES DOLLARS

TRANSACTION DATE: 05/02/2019

TRANSACTION AMOUNT: $9,557,312.50 MILLION TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION: CREDIT/INFLOW

FROM: B/O CBN NIMASA CURRENT COLLATION US TRANSACTION REF: S069035198A701 INFLW/GT19/07972

ACCESS BANK PLC

ACCOUNT NO: 0710814478

CURRENCY: UNITED STATES DOLLARS

TRANSACTION DATE: 20/02/2019

TRANSACTION AMOUNT: $5,425,200.00 MILLION TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION: DEBIT/WITHDRAWAL WITHDRAWN BY: BASHIR YUSUF JAMOH BY CASH PMNT @ BURMA ROAD APAPA BRANCH

TRANSACTION REF: 6464979

BANK: ACCESS BANK PLC

ACCOUNT NO: 0710814478

CURRENCY: UNITED STATES DOLLARS

TRANSACTION DATE: 12/03/2018

TRANSACTION AMOUNT: $8,856,317.28 MILLION TRANSACTION DESCRIPTION: CREDIT/INFLOW

FROM: B/O CBN SUNDRY USD SUB BULK ACCOUNT TRANSACTION REF: NIMASA CBN 21703 INLW/GT18/13676

The UK group said with reference to the allegations against Bashir Yusuf Jamoh, it is important that he be suspended from office immediately, and forensic audit carried out on the financial activities of NIMASA.

“We recommend that a panel be set up to look into the accounts of NIMASA CABOTAGE 2% SURCHAGE account Number 56595 with ACCESS bank. Also, to ascertain reasons why NIMASA is still using Commercial] Banks to receive funds instead of the TSA with Central Bank of Nigeria.

“The Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele should be invited by Security Agencies to give reasons why payment of such huge amount was paid into Bashir Yusuf Jamoh’s account.

“We also recommend that Bashir Yusuf be prosecuted for financial crimes and money laundering as established by our investigations.”

Pointblanknews.com investigation    revealed that Jamoh is Buhari’s direct in-law. His wife, Hajiya Zulai, is the daughter of the President’s sister and it was while living at Buhari’s Kaduna home that Zulai and Jamoh met.

Jamoh who untill recently was the Executive Director, Administration and Finance in the agency took over office from Dakuku Peterside.

It is not known yet the purpose for the huge sum in a personal account and why the security agency is yet to investigate the fund, but information  available to pointblanknews.com has it that the money was meant to be laundered.

Relatives to President Buhari has been in the spotlight over corruption in this present administration.

Recently, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) declared Gimba Yau Kumo, a former son-in-law of President Muhammadu Buhari, wanted over an alleged $65 million fraud.

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

*_BREAKING NEWS_*

ONWARD PAPER MILL's  founder has died.

Chief M.A. Obagun, the founder of Onward Paper Mill, has died at the age of 91.

He will be buried later today at his home town Poka in Epe according to Muslim rites.

If you attended school in Nigeria around the 80s and 90s, i am sure you used one of his exercise books with the following acronyms.

O - Ole

N - Ni

W - Wale

A - Aji

R - Ruler

D - Dada

B - Baba

I - Iya

G - Gani

E - Ede

X - Xtimes

E - Ede

R - Remi

C - Coni

I - Iya

S - Segun

E - Elere

B - Boolu

O - Odabo

O - Odabo

K - Kayode

May the gentle soul of the Industrialist rest in peace.

Emefiele operating separate $47bn foreign reserve account, 527 others without FG’s knowledge – Report

by SEGUN OLATUNJI  June 12, 2023 

By our Abuja Corespondents

 

The curious £2.55bn award against Nigeria

Godwin Emefiele

…to be quizzed on $3.7bn COVID-19 IMF palliative funds diverted to private bank account in China

. Accused of bribing CBN external auditors to doctor reports to deceive FG in the past six years

. Alleged to have directed each commercial bank CEO to give him N30bn “pocket money” annually

 

Suspended Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele has unilaterally been operating a separate foreign reserve account on behalf of the country without the knowledge of the Federal Government, a security report has revealed.

Emefiele, according to the report, masterminded the creation of two foreign reserve accounts for Nigeria with the second one the Federal Government is not aware of, having about $47billion.

CBN under Emefiele, the report further revealed, has also been running no fewer than 527 private bank accounts with public monies running to several billions stashed in them without the government being in the know.

These allegations, amongst several others against Emefiele, are contained in a security report submitted by the Department of State Services to former president Muhammadu Buhari since January this year.

The security report was sighted by our correspondent over the weekend.

The report handed over to former President Buhari by the DSS Director General, Yusuf Bichi, in January, it was learnt, contains more damning evidence against the suspended apex bank boss over a series of some fresh allegations.

The submission of the security report to the then President, First News had reported, necessitated Emefiele’s visits twice on Thursday January 19, 2023 to the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The then CBN governor, First News had reported, was summoned by the then President Buhari following his receipt of the DSS security report on the fresh allegations and “overwhelming evidence” against the apex bank boss earlier that day from the DSS DG.

Emefiele had earlier that same day visited the Presidential Villa as part of the delegation of the Arab Bank for Economic Development led by its Director General, Dr Sidi Ould Tah.

But Emefiele’s second meeting that same day with Buhari was held behind closed doors at the Presidential Villa, where he was confronted with the fresh allegations leveled against him by the DSS. At the end of his closed door meeting with the then President Buhari, Emefiele declined to comment on the issues discussed when approached by State House correspondents.

Earlier, the DSS had accused Emefiele of aiding and abetting terrorism, insisting that the then CBN Gov must be prosecuted for the alleged crimes.

According to the report, DSS’ preliminary investigations revealed Emefiele’s involvement in various acts of terrorism financing, fraudulent activities and economic crimes of national security dimension.

But the already embattled Emefiele continued to employ all means to escape arrest and interrogation by the DSS. He even had to delay his return to Nigeria after a trip abroad. He was also said to have engaged some close associates of the then President Buhari to help him prevail on the DSS to let him off the hook. He was also alleged to have been employing propaganda through organised public protests and demonstrations by CSOs, all in a bid to stop his investigations by the DSS.

A nephew and close confidant of the then President Buhari, Mamman Daura and the then Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai were said to be the arrowheads of the highly influential and powerful politicians pressuring the DSS DG, Yusuf Bichi to let go of Emefiele, resulting in the inability of the secret police to interrogate the apex bank boss on the allegations leveled against him while Buhari’s tenure lasted.

First News, however, learnt that unknown to Emefiele, while he was out of the country, the DSS had interrogated and obtained documentary evidence from his deputies at the apex bank, external auditors to the bank and managing directors of 27 commercial banks regarding the monumental allegations of corruption and fraud being levelled against him by the secret police regarding forex allocations and other corruption allegations.

It was in the course of these widened investigations that the DSS unearthed 12 fresh allegations against the CBN Gov, First News reported.

It was gathered that during interrogation, the CBN external auditors, who have been working for the apex bank in the past six years, “gave evidence under caution” to DSS interrogators and provided documents to back their claim that Emefiele paid them to prepare “doctored audit reports” which the Federal Government under Buhari was inadvertently relying upon.

It was also learnt that during investigations, the DSS discovered that the controversial Ways and Means approval requested by the Finance Minister was actually in the region of N23.7trillion as against the N7.3trn presented to the National Assembly.

Some of the new allegations Emefiele was then being investigated for by the DSS include the N3.6bn COVID-19 palliative funds given Nigeria by the IMF two years ago to cushion the effects of the pandemic.

Emefiele, it was learnt did not inform the Federal Government about the IMF palliative but only allegedly diverted the money into a private account in China.

The demand for acknowledgement letter by the IMF from the Finance Minister let the cat out of Emefiele’s bag. The CBN Gov was however said to have told the then Finance Minister that he invested the money for the country.

The then Finance Minister on her part, was said to have demanded for about $700m out of the IMF palliative to enable her Ministry to “offset staff salary.”

The remaining $3billion, it was gathered, is still being kept in a bank in China without the Federal Government being aware of this development.

Also, the much-vaunted Single Treasury Account (TSA), it was learnt, has been discovered by the DSS to be a phantom device by Emefiele to deceive the Federal Government and all Nigerians. “There’s nothing like TSA account. Only Emefiele knows what he means by this,” a source said.

The DSS, it was further gathered, while grilling bank chief executives in January, also unearthed an allegation that the CBN boss directed all commercial banks’ managing directors to give him N30bn each every year as his own “pocket money.” Only a newly established bank (names withheld) allegedly paid Emefiele the least sum of N5bn. The bank MDs involved, it was learnt, wrote statements and provided the DSS with documentary evidence.

This was part of the reasons Emefiele, on January 18, 2023, through a CSO, approached an Abuja High Court presided over by Justice Belgore to obtain an interim injunction to restrain the DSS from obtaining information from the CBN and the commercial banks regarding forex allocations in the past six years.

But unknown to Emefiele, the DSS had already obtained a comprehensive list of all those involved in the forex distribution deal, including some highly placed Presidency officials and which was included in the security report on the CBN boss submitted to former President Buhari.

This security report, which former President Buhari refused to act upon, it was learnt, was recently dusted by the DSS and re-submitted to the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, which last Friday night suspended Emefiele from the office of the CBN governor and subsequently appointed an acting governor in his stead.

This action by President Tinubu against Emefiele gave the DSS the needed clearance and the green light to move in and arrest the suspended CBN governor on Friday night in his Lagos home, flying him to Abuja, where he’s currently being detained to answer questions on the various allegations leveled against him.

Ayomipe Jatto Makes History as the Youngest Bashorun of Yoruba Land, Vows to Champion Yoruba Interests

By Ayekooto

 

In a remarkable turn of events, Ayomipe Jatto, a prominent business merchant, politician, seer, and aristocrat, is set to become the 15th Bashorun of Yoruba Land, succeeding the legendary Bashorun Mko Abiola. This momentous appointment marks Jatto as the youngest Bashorun in the history of Yoruba Land, solidifying his position as a rising force in Yoruba politics and leadership.

The chieftaincy title of “Bashorun” carries great significance in Yoruba culture, representing a Yoruba Generalissimo and a symbol of authority and influence. Ayomipe Jatto, known for his activism and political involvement, has long been recognized as a freedom fighter and a dedicated advocate for the rights and welfare of the Yoruba people.

Following the completion of all spiritual rites, overseen by Oba Lekan Balogun, the Olubadan of Ibadan Land, Ayomipe Jatto now assumes the prestigious role of the 15th Bashorun of Yoruba Land. This historic appointment comes as a testament to Jatto’s unwavering commitment to the Yoruba community and his notable contributions to the socio-political landscape of Nigeria.

Expressing his gratitude and sense of responsibility, Jatto affirmed that he would fearlessly defend the interests of the Yoruba people and Nigeria as a whole. As the Bashorun of Yoruba Land, he intends to utilize his position as a platform to champion Yoruba rights, advocate for equitable representation, and drive positive change within the nation.

Jatto’s ascension to the revered position of Bashorun carries immense significance for the Yoruba community. As the youngest individual to hold this esteemed title, he represents a new generation of leadership, poised to address the challenges faced by the Yoruba people with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.

Known for his charismatic leadership style, Ayomipe Jatto has already garnered a significant following and enjoys the support of a diverse range of individuals who believe in his vision for a stronger, more prosperous Yoruba Land. His success in the business world, coupled with his political acumen and profound spiritual insights, positions him as a dynamic force for positive change and progress.

As he assumes the mantle of leadership, Jatto’s commitment to upholding the ideals of his predecessor, Bashorun Mko Abiola, is resolute. He intends to build upon Abiola’s legacy, furthering the fight for justice, inclusivity, and economic empowerment for the Yoruba people. Jatto envisions a future where the Yoruba community thrives economically, socially, and politically, contributing significantly to the development and unity of Nigeria as a whole.

The appointment of Ayomipe Jatto as the 15th Bashorun of Yoruba Land heralds a new era in Yoruba leadership. With his youth, charisma, and unwavering dedication, Jatto embodies the hopes and aspirations of the Yoruba people. As he assumes his responsibilities, all eyes are on this visionary leader, eagerly anticipating the positive impact he will make in advancing the interests of the Yoruba community and promoting a brighter future for all Nigerians.

Hon Tokunbo Wahab to Nigerians: LET US MAKE THE BEST OF THIS MOMENT 

By Ayekooto 

The past few weeks have been a challenging one for Nigerians especially our SMEs, poor and vulnerable masses and those whose very survival depend on daily cash transactions. 

They have felt the brunt of the combined problems of scarcity of fuel and new Naira notes. 

We feel the pains of our market women and artisans who have experienced low sales because customers do not have cash to make purchases.  

 We hear the loud cries of farmers in rural areas and hinterlands who have been forced to sell their produce at much lower prices so they don't lose out completely. We hear every Nigerian dealing with the consequences of the roll-out of the cash swap programme.

While the scarcity arising from the supply limitations of the new naira notes is still with us, we are encouraged about reports that the fuel queues across the country are easing out as a result of better supply to fuel stations.

 We are now confronted with how to bring quick, sustainable solution, and relief to Nigerians on the challenges still posed by the non  availability of new Naira notes,  so that social and economic activities can move on unimpeded and normalcy can immediately return to our financial services sector and overall productivity of our nation.

In seeking a quick resolution, the National Council of State met on Friday, February 10, 2022 and advised the government and Central Bank in particular, to push more new Naira notes into circulation and also allow for the old notes to remain a legal tender by ensuring supply gaps relative to infrastructural limitations are bridged by recirculating it to ameliorate the pains caused by the scarcity of new ones. 

We agree with the wisdom of the Council of States as a necessary starting point to begin redressing the unintended consequences of what would have otherwise been a good policy that required mainstream adoption.

 For the records, I Hon Tokunbo Wahab JP do not have anything against the CBN Naira redesign and cashless policy in principle. 

 We are,however, only concerned about its disruptive implementation and the hardship it has brought on the generality of our people who currently can't access their hard-earned money to meet obligations and the attendant consequences on the informal sector, where majority operate. 

Despite the challenges and current difficulties, we are a country of resilient, bold and courageous people who don't succumb to hard times. We have always overcome our most difficult times and come out better as a people and a nation. This time will not be different.

 We will make lemonade out of our current lemons. 

To bring immediate relief to our people, we urge the Central Bank to consider the following: 

1. Following the advice of the Council of States, the CBN should announce that the old and new Naira notes (especially the non-withdrawn notes and coins) will co-exist as legal tender for the next 12 months to follow examples of countries that have successfully implemented similar monetary policy. 

This will immediately remove growing tension in the country, eliminate panic reactions by the populace and allow time to scale up infrastructural gaps around alternative payment options to cash.

2. We advise the immediate suspension of associated charges on online transactions and bank transfers and payments via POS until the current crisis is fully resolved. This cost should be considered a roll-out expense by the CBN to incentivise the envisaged shift to alternative transaction channels; for both the financial services consuming public and those in charge of implementing the scale-up programme. 

3. Mobilise all Money Deposit Banks, Payment platforms to show clear commitment and timelines on expanding their infrastructure and support services. 

4. Bring in Fintech companies with capabilities into currency swap programme for the next 90 days to help decongest banking halls and ATM points where people line up for hours.

5. The Central Bank and other relevant MDA’s should form an Inter-Agency Action Committee for immediate oversight over the cash supply gaps from the Nigerian Security and Minting Company and deal with issues around capabilities and turn around time to meet the needs of the informal sector and unbanked people.

6. The CBN, National Orientation Agency and Ministry of Information, State and Local Governments with their relevant organs in both the public and private sectors should commence a major public enlightenment and sensitisation campaign to further educate and empower our people on the new naira and cashless policy for better understanding and mainstream adoption. 

As leaders, our commitment to our country everyday must be on how to make life better for our people and we are called upon not to waste the opportunity the moment presents to us to ramp up capacity and capability to serve 200 million Nigerians, leaving no one behind and ultimately improve the living conditions of every single Nigerian. 

Our task now is to restore hope in the country by implementing these steps to energise our people that we can do big things for a better future and shared prosperity. We can build upon this citizen-focused policy challenge to offer a template on how governance should work for the people.

God bless you and God bless Nigeria. We are overcomers. 

Hon Tokunbo Wahab the former Governorship Aspirant Lagos State & present SA on EDUCATION LAGOS State  

February 15, 2023

Hon Tokunbo Wahab JP, hails Nigerian Governors over Supreme Court ruling on CBN Naira Swap policy 

By Ayekooto 

Hon Tokunbo Wahab JP, has hailed the Governors of the 36 states for standing on the side of the Nigerian people over the Central Bank new Naira and cashless policies that have subjected the masses to pains.

According to Tokunbo Wahab JP, the Governors especially the APC Governors who instituted the suit against the CBN and Federal Government at the Supreme Court acted well on behalf of the hapless Nigerians who have been made to bear the brunt of Naira redesign policy that has been poorly implemented

The Supreme Court on Wednesday morning in a law suit brought before it by the governments of Zamfara, Kogi and Kaduna States gave an interim injunction against the CBN and Federal Government,  allowing the old N200, N500 and N1000 to remain legal tender beyond February 10 deadline until the case is fully disposed.

Following  the apex court ruling, Hon Tokunbo Wahab JP, noted that the governors  have saved the country from  a needless political and economic crises and miseries which have clearly become the unintended consequences of the monetary policy of the apex bank.

Tokunbo Wahab JP, noted that the Supreme Court ruling coincided with the advisory of the International Monetary Fund urging for the extension of the deadline for the swap of the old naira notes, going by the problems being experienced across the country in getting the new notes.

"I want to salute the courage of our Governors and most especially the Progressives Governors in APC who acted to save our country from avoidable and dangerous political crises and social unrest which the Central Bank policy on new Naira notes has brought on our country. 

“Our country was dangerously careering toward anarchy and political and economic shutdown.  But with the Supreme Court interim ruling our country has been pulled back from the precipice. We thank our Supreme Court Justices for ruling wisely on the side of the people who have been subjected to undue agony and pains since this policy was announced.

"The Federal Government and relevant stakeholders can now sit down and work out better framework on how to proceed with the new policy without causing any social and economic disruption and inconvenience to our people. We have examples of other countries that have successfully and seamlessly changed their currencies to learn from. 

“Those countries give a long time, at least 12 months to effect the currency change. They do not engage in CBN-like Fire Brigade approach.

"We have seen how a good policy can be poorly implemented to cause unintended problems for the people who should be the beneficiaries. While lessons have been learnt, we must now move on as a country and people with a Renewed Hope for a better tomorrow. 

“The sole aim of my running to be the president of our country is to make life better and more abundant for our people and this is an ideal for which I will remain eternally committed to."

Hon Tokunbo Wahab JP, called on the CBN to ensure that the Supreme Court ruling is effectively executed by taking all necessary steps to (i) ensure sufficient availability of Naira notes (whether old or new) and (ii) properly sensitising the public on the ruling and the consequent validity of old Naira.

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