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Tag: cso

  • Accountant General: CSO wants Afolabi Idowu, ask Tinubu to use transparency and accountability as yardstick

    Accountant General: CSO wants Afolabi Idowu, ask Tinubu to use transparency and accountability as yardstick

    As the process of selecting a new Accountant General to the Federal Government heats up, a civil society organization under the aegis of Ethics and Compliance Officers Association of Africa – ECOA has advised President Bola Tinubu to use accountability and transparency as yardstick which Afolabi Idowu Omoniwa embodies.

    The group in a statement signed by its convener,Professor Babatunde Akinsanya – Executive Secretary noted that in a bid to avoid ugly situations that could portray Tinubu’s administration in bad light there’s need to beam a searchlight on all the selected directors.

    From our findings after digging deep into the various personalities pursuing the position of AGF, Afolabi remains the most qualified.

    Outside being a qualified accountant with vast experience in public sector account , Afolabi rose through the ranks to the pinnacle of his career.

    For over two decades he has covered different ministries and departments of government managing the books without blemishes.

    President Tinubu needs to be very conscious of those who occupy such sensitive positions that requires accountability, integrity and transparency.

    On no account those carrying baggage should be given the leeway to even have a glimpse of such an office laced with accountability.

    “We equally understand that it will be an abberation for the Minister of Finance and Accountant General to the Federation to come from the same geo-political zone.

    “In this case, Afolabi is from the North Central geo-political zone of Nigeria making it abundantly clear that there’s no clash of interest.

    Afolabi fits the bill as it’s and there’s no need for Mr President should go elsewhere to search for an Accountant General!

  • Police launch probe into gruesome killing of CSO, son in Rivers

    Police launch probe into gruesome killing of CSO, son in Rivers

    The Police Command in Rivers has commenced an investigation into the brutal murder of a father and son at their family residence in Igwuruta-Ali community of the state.

    The older victim, identified as Timothy, 59, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Adokiye Amieseimeka International Stadium, Omagwa, was killed alongside his son by suspected assassins.

    SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, disclosed this development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.

    According to Iringe-Koko, the incident was reported by the deceased’s daughter to the Igwuruta Division in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.

    “She informed officers that four unknown gunmen ambushed her father and brother, shooting them multiple times in the head before fleeing the scene,” Iringe-Koko said.

    She said that following the report, officers were mobilised to the scene and they recovered three expended AK-47 cartridges.

    “The victims were rushed to the hospital but, unfortunately, they succumbed to their injuries and were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty,” she noted.

    The police image maker said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, had ordered a manhunt for the perpetrators, directing officers to ensure they were apprehended and brought to justice.

    In a separate development, Iringe-Koko disclosed the arrest of a two-man syndicate specialised in the theft of solar panel streetlights and manhole covers in the state.

    She said the suspects were reportedly caught while attempting to steal NDDC-installed streetlights along Danjuma Drive, off Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout in Port Harcourt.

    “The suspects, Shaibu Yusuf, 30, and Ibrahim Abubakar, 28, are residents of Okuru scrap dump in Abuloma community in Port Harcourt,” Iringe-Koko stated.

    Items seized by the police operatives included solar light poles, solar light panels, bolts and nuts for the panels, and a knife.

    “The suspects have confessed to being part of a syndicate responsible for vandalising and stealing streetlights and manhole covers in the state,” Iringo-Koko added.

    The police spokesperson confirmed that the suspects would be charged to court, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.

  • Oborevwori decorates CSO, ADC, others with new ranks(Photos)

    Oborevwori decorates CSO, ADC, others with new ranks(Photos)

    Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Friday, decorated his Chief Security Officer, (CSO) Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Omoarebun Iluobe,; his Aide-De-Camp, (ADC), Superintendent of Police (SP) Oreoluwa Ogunwumiju, and five others who were newly promoted by the Police authority in Government House, Asaba.

    Other officers include the Provost, SP Kenneth Iyetor; Unit Commander, Government House, Asaba, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Bako Ibrahim; Escort Commander, DSP Umoh Ubong; OC Communication, Government House, DSP Anthony Okonji, and Unit Commander 51 Police Mobile Force (PMF) DSP Kalu Ibeh.

    Oborevwori decorates CSO, ADC, others with new ranks

    Governor Oborevwori was supported by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme; the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi and wife of the CSO, Mrs Victoria Omoarebun.

    In his remarks, CP Abaniwonda thanked President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector- General of Police, IGP Sunday Egbetokun, for approving the elevation of the seven officers.

    He said that in any organisation, the reward for hardwork was usually elevation to the next level, adding that the officers had been found worthy of being promoted to their next ranks.

    He said the police in the state achieved low insecurity during the Christmas and New Year celebrations due to the strong collaboration with communities and critical stakeholders as well as other security agencies.

    Oborevwori decorates CSO, ADC, others with new ranks

    “We put in certain measures that enabled us have a very peaceful Christmas and New Year celebrations and, going forward, we hope to sustain these collaborations, especially in areas where we have pockets of security challenges.”

    While congratulating the newly promoted officers, CP Abaniwonda enjoined them to re-dedicate themselves to the service of their fatherland so that, at the next round of promotions, they would also be found worthy of elevation again.

    He thanked Governor Oborevwori for being what he termed a pillar of support to all the security agencies in the state, and assured that the police would continue to work hard to ensure that sustainable security remained an integral part of the Governor’s MORE Agenda.

    Responding on behalf of the newly promoted officers, CSP Omoarebun Iluobe, gave thanks to God on their elevation, assuring that the promotion would spur them to re-dedicate themselves to the service of the state and the country.

    “It’s a new year and we promise to do our best; I also charge my newly promoted colleagues to put in their best to justify our promotions,” he said.

  • Navy, Lawmakers, CSOs reject Nigerian Coast Guard, urge Senate to kill Bill

    Navy, Lawmakers, CSOs reject Nigerian Coast Guard, urge Senate to kill Bill

    The Nigerian Navy, Members of the National Assembly and Coalition of Civil Society Groups, were amongst the opposition to the Bill for an Act to establish Nigerian Coast Guard.

    Recall that, the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, had slated November 7 for the public hearing on the Bill, but was shifted due to the demise of the Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

    The bill sponsored by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun (APC- Lagos), has the overriding intent to enact legislation that sought make Nigerian Coast Guard a full fledged military service and a branch of the Armed Forces of Nigeria; to be domiciled under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

    At the public hearing held in National Assembly Library on Thursday, the Nigerian Navy seriously objected to the establishment of the Nigerian Coast Guard, citing duplicity of functions, security threats, incorerent crafting of the Bills, resource constraints, economic imperatives of nature, amongst others.

    The Chief of Training and Operations, Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, who represented the Chief of Naval Staff, took his time to analyze both Nigeria’s maritime security needs and global best practices, with huge global examples of consolidated maritime security frameworks.

    He said, “United Kingdom does not have a Coast Guard with military powers similar to those being proposed in this bill. Rather, the Royal Navy is responsible for military defense and maritime security operations, including facial protection, and this is quoted from the House of Commons briefing paper of 2020.

    “On the other hand, the UK Coast Guard, is under the Maritime and Coast Guard Agency, which manages search and rescue and Occupational Safety. In fact, the UK Coast Guard is also known as a volunteer. Coast Guard is not funded by the government but by charity. The UK example is a symbol, where resourceful Naval Force, with complementary civilian agencies work to manage maritime safety.

    “Then let’s look at the United States of America. The Coast Guard and the Navy. The US Coast Guard operates under the Department of Homeland Security, focusing on law Enforcement, Environmental Protection, search and rescue; while the US Navy under the Department of Defense is primarily an Expeditionary Force projecting power far beyond the shores.

    “South Africa has opted to enhance its network capacity instead of establishing the Coast Guard, recognizing budget constraints and prioritising the unified labour force for all maritime security and defence. South Africa Navy performs both military rules and law enforcement functions supported by government agencies and non military tasks like Environmental Protection and the likes. This approach is similar to what is done in Nigeria and several developing countries. It minimises redundancy and ensures that the country’s limited resources are well managed.

    “Given Nigeria’s more regional maritime focus and resource constraints, creating a similar structure will lead to redundant functions and stretch limited resources”.

    On his part, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Interior, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, said Nigeria is living on borrowed funds, saying it is improper to take loan and establish a new agency. Oshiomhole also queried the rational behind establishing a ministry service and domiciled it under a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, instead of Defence.

    “So why do we need an Armed Forces to be controlled by blue economy to become the responsibility of the Ministry of Defense?”, Oshiomhole asked rhetorically.

    Also speaking on a very strong opposition to the Bill, a Member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, Rep. Philip Agbese, said what Nigeria needed was to strengthen the existing agencies and institutions to function to maximum, rather than creating irrelevant agencies, which duties are already being performed by others.

    Agbese who is the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, also expressed disappointment that, agencies under the Marine Ministry which objected to the establishment of Nigeria Marine Corps during a public hearing 2 weeks ago, could hypocritically come up to support the establishment of Nigeria Coast Guard, which shares similar objectives with the Marine Corps Bill.

    “I was at the House of Representatives Committee public hearing, Navy in particular, where the other committees
    were incorporated to dissect the issue of Marine Corps Bill. And I know the position of all the agencies in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. They categorically submitted at the public hearing that there was no need for any further agency to support what the Navy is doing.

    “I can see the faces of many persons there that they are also here. So, whereas they told us a different thing in the House of Representatives that such an agency is not necessary, here today, they are here to support Bill, that it is now necessary. What’s the difference between 14 days ago and today that we suddenly need that?”, he said.

    Agbese referred to state security outfits created by some state Governors few years ago, including the Amotekun created in Osun state, where the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola was Governor, with the mandate to ending insecurity, only for security challenges to keep increasing; adding that, creating Coast Guard would not in any way end insecurity in the waterways.

    Various Speakers, including, Dr. Emeka Akabogu, Honorary Secretary of Nigerian Maritime Law Association; Rear Admiral Chris Ezekobe (Rtd.); and Igwe Ude Umanta, who spoke on behalf of coalition of other 10 Civil Society Groups; all rejected the establishment of Nigeria Coast Guard, urging the Senate to drop the Bill.

  • P’Harcout Refinery: CSO slams NNPCL for deridng host community leader

    P’Harcout Refinery: CSO slams NNPCL for deridng host community leader

    For coming out to deride a leader from the host community of the Port Harcourt refinery, a group, known as Network of Oil Producing Communities in Nigeria (NOPCN), has come hard on the foremost regulatory agency, Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

    This was, even as, the group has called on President Bola Tinubu to relieve the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPCL, Mallam Mele Kyari of his duties, for misleading the President and Nigerians about the operation of the Port Harcourt refinery.

    In a statement on Sunday signed by the President, Engr. Igeniwari Edward, and Comrade Omototsho Ogbe, the group corroborated the comments of the Secretary of the Alesa Community Stakeholders, Timothy Mgbere, saying, the petroleum products loaded from the newly rehabilitated Port-Harcourt Refinery were not freshly refined but dead stocks left in the storage tank of the facility since 2016.

    “Before shutting down in 2016, the Port Harcourt refinery had some large quantity of dead stock left in the tank, and were only evacuated from the storage to some trucks during the rehabilitation of Old Area 5.

    “Some dead stocks like Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) DPK (kerosene), and Automated Gas Oil (diesel) were stored in the tanks in large quantity. What NNPC did was to evacuate them into waiting trucks, making the President and Nigerians to believe they were loading freshly refined products into those trucks.

    “It is not only Chief Mgbere that knew about this fact, all of us from Alesa, infact, all the suburbs in Eleme can attest to this.

    “It also doesn’t surprise us that the NNPCL shut down the refinery sooner than they claimed it was operating. That’s because they ran out of lies and couldn’t cajole the President any further.

    “Kyari should be so sober right now and I believe he is already aware that the much celebrated 60,000 capacity segment of the refinery they claimed to have rehabilitated was shut down 2 days ago and no activity is happening there any longer.

    “The President should not wait any further before he sacks Mele Kyari and all his accomplices in this national monumental trick they pulled on Nigerians on Tuesday. He should not only be sacked, Kyari should tell Nigerians what happened to over N17 trillion naira injected into the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries.

    “Nigerians should also join our Network to say NO to conversion of any of the refineries to a blending plant. We all know the environmental degredations our people having been facing over oil exploration and bunkering activities. We don’t want any further hazard on our land. Kyari should just deliver exactly what the government paid for and stop fighting our leaders in the host communities”, the statement read.

    Chief Mgbere, Secretary to Alesa Community Stakeholders Forum, had appeared on a national television show on Thursday, alleging that the Port Harcourt refinery only loaded six trucks on Tuesday, despite stating that 200 trucks would be picked up from the refinery daily, adding that the many trucks parked within the premises were tucked up with dead stock and off-spec of old products.

    Alesa, one of the 10 major communities in Eleme, Rivers State, is the host community of the Port-Harcourt Refinery.

    But in response to the allegations, the NNPCL denied claims by an Alesa community leader, in a statement signed Friday by its Spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, saying the agency did not lie when it said the Port Harcourt refinery was producing crude oil.

    The NNPCL accused Mgbere of crass ignorance of how a refinery runs, saying he would not have dignified him with a response if not for a need to set the records straight.

    “We call on the general public to disregard the claims of the self-acclaimed ‘community person’ which are obviously borne out of sheer mischief and blatant display of ignorance,” NNPCL had said.

    Meanwhile, exclusive report emerging from Sahara Reporters Saturday night corroborated the position of the Network of Oil Producing Communities in Nigeria, that the NNPCL has shut down operation “at the moment” with only its non-petroleum unit running which is the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU).

    The CDU produces naphtha, kerosene and diesel but cannot produce the component which is needed for the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) otherwise known as petrol, top sources at the refinery disclosed to an online newspaper.

    “The Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) is still running but the operation of the depot is shut down at the moment. The CDU produces naphtha, diesel and Kerosene but cannot produce the component for the production of PMS.

    “All these products cannot serve the masses as the production of these products are in small quantities even if the plant runs at 100% throughput. The processing plant of 150,000bpd capacity will commence operations in 2026; that is if money is made readily available to meet the timelines because at the moment the project has exceeded $2billion”, a top official of the agency revealed.

  • CSO rates Budget Minister, Atiku Bagudu high in ministerial performance appraisal

    CSO rates Budget Minister, Atiku Bagudu high in ministerial performance appraisal

    The Initiative for Transparent Leadership (ITL) has commended Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Planning, for his outstanding performance in promoting transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

    At a press conference, the CSO praised Bagudu’s efforts in ensuring an equal spread of budgetary allocations across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

    The group said that marks a significant departure from previous administrations where certain regions were favored over others.

    In his address, Executive Director, Fabian Opialu said under Senator Bagudu’s leadership, the budget follows an even spread, ensuring that all six geo-political zones benefit from concrete projects that meet tangible realities on the ground.

    This level of accountability, he said, is unprecedented and highlights Bagudu’s commitment to transparency in governance.

    The CSO also commended the improved allocation of resources and their prioritization.

    Opialu lamented that previous administrations struggled with ensuring that key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security received the necessary funding.

    However, he noted that Senator Bagudu has worked meticulously to ensure that resources are allocated to projects based on national priorities and needs, rather than political considerations.

    Opialu further said that this has led to visible improvements in several key sectors across all regions of the country.

    He said Senator Bagudu’s actions have been firmly in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes the economic integration of marginalized groups, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.

    The CSO added that the Minister has played a critical role in ensuring that these groups are not only included but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to the economy.

    He said: “Unlike previous administrations where budget allocations often remained theoretical, under Senator Bagudu’s leadership, there has been a strong focus on implementation and monitoring of projects.

    “For the first time in many years, we are witnessing robust systems being put in place to monitor projects and their progress, ensuring that funds allocated to specific regions are utilized for the intended purposes. This level of accountability is unprecedented and highlights the commitment of Senator Bagudu to transparency in governance.
    “Furthermore, one of the most remarkable successes of the current administration is the improved allocation of resources and their prioritization. Previous administrations struggled with ensuring that key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security received the necessary funding.

    “However, Senator Bagudu has worked meticulously to ensure that resources are allocated to projects based on national priorities and needs, rather than political considerations. This has led to visible improvements in several key sectors across all regions of the country.

    “Another significant achievement under Senator Bagudu’s tenure is the periodic review of projects and programs to ensure conformity with the objectives laid out in the national development plan. The ability to adapt and make necessary changes to the implementation process is a sign of great foresight. Regular evaluations have allowed the Ministry to correct course when necessary, ensuring that projects remain aligned with the government’s overall goals of promoting inclusivity and sustainable growth.

    “Additionally, Senator Atiku Bagudu’s actions have been firmly in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which has inclusivity at its core. This agenda prioritizes the economic integration of marginalized groups, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.

    “Senator Bagudu has played a critical role in Ensuring that these groups are not only included but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to the economy. Unlike in previous administrations where inclusivity was merely a slogan, the current administration, through Senator Bagudu’s efforts, has made tangible progress in integrating these groups into the economic system a realistic endeavor.

    “Another key governance issue that Senator Bagudu has helped address is youth unemployment. Nigeria’s youth population is one of the largest in the world, yet successive administrations have struggled to create meaningful opportunities for this demographic even on their meticulous planning, but only touching the surface.

    “Senator Bagudu has been a trailblazer in contributing practical strategies for implementing the administration’s youth empowerment policies in her budgeting and planning. Through initiatives such as vocational training, digital skills programs, and entrepreneurial support, young Nigerians are being equipped with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. This is a marked departure from previous administrations, where youth empowerment policies were often poorly implemented or underfunded.

    “Evidently, Senator Bagudu’s performance as Minister of Budget and Planning is underpinned by his great foresight. Amidst the noise and complaints surrounding critical economic reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the deregulation of the foreign exchange market, Senator Bagudu has remained steadfast in his support of these policies.

    “He has demonstrated a deep understanding of their long-term benefits for Nigeria’s economy, recognizing that short-term pain is sometimes necessary for long-term gain. His advocacy for these policies has helped to shape public discourse and build support for the administration’s reform agenda.

    The CSO recommended areas for improvement, including enhancing public engagement, intensifying monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and expanding youth empowerment programs.

    Opialu emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

  • Massive Strides: CSO hails NSCDC’s transformative drive in 2 years under CG Audi

    Massive Strides: CSO hails NSCDC’s transformative drive in 2 years under CG Audi

    A civil society group, the National Coalition Against Terrorism, has lauded the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its remarkable progress under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi. The commendation, delivered in a statement signed by National Coordinator Terrence Kuanum, highlights the significant achievements and reforms initiated by Dr. Audi over the past two years.

    Since his appointment, Commandant General (CG) Audi has undertaken a comprehensive vision to transform the NSCDC, focusing on enhancing professionalism and aligning the Corps with international best practices. In his inaugural address at the NSCDC National Headquarters in Abuja, CG Audi outlined his plan to “rejig, revamp, revitalize, restructure, and reposition” the Corps.

    Dr. Audi has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the Corps’ effectiveness. Notably, he established the Commandant General’s Quarterly Conference to regularly assess and strategize on the Corps’ performance. Additionally, the creation of the Special Female Squad (SFS) addresses the security challenges faced by schools, earning widespread praise for its timely intervention.

    The SFS actively participates in the School and Community Security Vanguard (SCSV), a program designed to educate and protect schools and their surrounding communities. Under Dr. Audi’s leadership, the Corps has prioritized the training and retraining of personnel, with over 700 officers receiving advanced training in weapon handling within ten months of his tenure. This initiative also included developing standardized training curricula to promote uniformity and professionalism.

    Dr. Audi’s tenure has seen numerous reforms, including the establishment of the Private Guard Companies (PGC) and the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad. He has also reactivated the Agro-rangers and intensified efforts against terror financing and economic sabotage, particularly crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. The introduction of the CG’s Special Anti-vandal Squad and the reorganization of the anti-vandal unit further underscore these efforts.

    To bolster the Corps’ operational capabilities, Dr. Audi has procured 93 operational and utility vehicles and facilitated partnerships with private sector entities. These collaborations led to the NSCDC’s Maiden Strategic Communication Conference and National Gender Summit. Furthermore, the establishment of the NSCDC Command and Staff College in Plateau State and a microfinance scheme for the Corps’ personnel exemplify his commitment to institutional development.

    Dr. Audi’s administration has made significant strides in personnel welfare, including the disbursement of substantial funds for group life insurance benefits and burial benefits. Over 200 million naira were distributed to 60 beneficiaries as part of these efforts. His administration has also focused on infrastructure, including the construction of a fire service station and the acquisition of firefighting vehicles to aid in disaster management.

    In recognition of his academic inclination, Dr. Audi launched twelve books on national and regional security, contributing valuable insights to the field.

    The National Coalition Against Terrorism has expressed strong support for Dr. Audi’s leadership, particularly in combating crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. The group also commended President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support of security agencies and urged him to increase funding for the NSCDC to sustain these critical efforts.

    Kuanum noted that Dr. Audi’s tenure as Commandant General of the NSCDC has been marked by significant advancements and reforms, positioning the Corps as a model for security agencies both nationally and internationally. The continued support and funding from the government will be crucial in maintaining and building upon these achievements.

  • INCARCERATION! Coalition of 25 COS send SOS to Tinubu to help release Nigerian Pastor Egbaji detained in Benin+Photos

    INCARCERATION! Coalition of 25 COS send SOS to Tinubu to help release Nigerian Pastor Egbaji detained in Benin+Photos

    … demand urgent intervention of FG

    A coalition of 25 Civil Society Organisations, CSOs, has called on President Bola Tinubu to quickly intervene in saving the life of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji detained since last year in Benin Republic over pumped up charges bordering on rape.

    A coalition of 25 CSOs led by the Director General of Centre For Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Dr Gabriel Nwambu stating that:

    The essence of the entire briefing is humanitarian as the life of a Nigerian is involved and the case of Pastor Egbaji is pathetic as his health has detoriatted.

    Nwambi in the statement entitled:’Injustice Prevails: Nigerian Pastor Falsely Accused and Unjustly Detained in Benin Republic explained that:

    “In a shocking display of injustice and what we call an SOS, # SAVE PASTOR BENJAMIN EGBAJI, a Nigerian citizen hailing from Cross River, finds himself languishing behind bars in the Republic of Benin for over a year without trial in chains even in the hospital. He is being held under false, baseless, and spurious allegations, while his health deteriorates rapidly.

    “The accusations against Pastor Benjamin were made by Pede Victoire, a citizen of the Republic of Benin. She claimed that Pastor Benjamin had raped her daughter, Ahouandjinou Dona Sarah, when she was just 13 years old. However, it is important to note that this claim was never reported or complained about, and no evidence has been presented to substantiate these allegations.

    “The situation took a surprising turn when Sarah herself came forward and refuted the claim of rape.

    “As a hypertensive patient, his blood pressure has shot up to 254/136 prompting the medical director in Central National Hospital Universitare Hubert K. Maga (pictures and video available for the press) to raise an alarm that if Pastor Benjamin is not released for proper diagnosis and treatment within a forth night, something more tragic might happen to his patient.

    “Attempts to secure bail for the Nigerian, Pastor Benjamin Egbaji has hit the bricks because the Nigerian Government is yet to do the needful to save this Nigerian in a dare and urgent need for medical attention and justice. Although, the head of the Nigerian Consular, Republic of Benin has led a delegation to visit the pastor where he is been held in custody and has sent a note verbal to the Nigerian government to authorize them to engage with the government of Benin to secure his immediate release, but the requisite response is yet to be activated by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    “Consequently, the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, in collaboration with a coalition of civil society organizations in Nigeria, urgently calls for immediate action to ensure justice is served and Pastor Benjamin Egbaji is released from unjust and harrowing detention in the Republic of Benin.

    “Given the harrowing circumstances surrounding Pastor Benjamin’s case, it is imperative that the following urgent actions be taken:

    1. The Federal Government of Nigeria’s Intervention: We appeal to the Nigerian Government, in the strongest possible terms, to utilize all diplomatic ties and channels available to secure the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji. It is crucial for the Government to recognize the urgency of this matter and take swift action to prevent further violation of Pastor Benjamin’s rights and ensure his immediate freedom.

    2. International Diplomatic Pressure: We call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the President and Commander in Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to directly intervene and exert International diplomatic pressure on the Republic of Benin to secure the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji. It is imperative that President Tinubu understands the gravity of this situation and utilizes his influence to facilitate Pastor Benjamin’s immediate release.

    3. Independent Investigation: We demand an independent and thorough investigation into the allegations made against Pastor Benjamin Egbaji. The lack of evidence, coupled with Sarah’s own account refuting the claims, clearly demonstrates that the allegations are false and baseless. An impartial investigation will ensure that justice prevails and the truth is revealed.

    4. Medical Attention: We urgently request that Pastor Benjamin Egbaji be transferred to a better-equipped medical facility without delay. His deteriorating health condition, particularly as a hypertensive patient with a dangerously high blood pressure reading, necessitates immediate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Failure to do so within the next fourteen days could lead to tragic consequences.

    5. Support from the Nigerian Government: We implore the Nigerian government to provide unwavering support and assistance in securing the release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji. It is the government’s responsibility to protect the rights of its citizens abroad and ensure their safety and well-being. Preserving the principles of justice and upholding the innocence of Pastor Benjamin are essential to maintain the integrity of the judiciary in any democratic nation including the Republic of Benin.

    The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, along with our coalition of civil society organizations, remains committed to fighting for justice and the immediate release of Pastor Benjamin Egbaji. We urge the Nigerian government to act swiftly and decisively, utilizing all resources at their disposal to rectify this grave injustice.

    “We sincerely hope that our plea for urgent intervention will be met with the seriousness and urgency it deserves, ensuring that justice is not delayed, and Pastor Benjamin Egbaji’s rights and well-being are restored.
    #SAVE PASTOR BENJAMIN EGBAJI
    Thank you.

  • Budget Padding: CSO cautions against attempts to undermine Legislative Oversight

    Budget Padding: CSO cautions against attempts to undermine Legislative Oversight

    In the wake of escalating tensions surrounding allegations of budget padding within the National Assembly, the Save Nigeria Forum (SNF), a prominent Civil Society Organization (CSO) dedicated to promoting good governance and accountability, has issued a stern rebuke against what it perceives as attempts by certain opposition groups to undermine the critical oversight role of the legislative arm of government.

    The SNF expressed deep concern over the surge of unfounded accusations and efforts to tarnish the integrity of the National Assembly, particularly concerning alleged instances of budget padding. Such actions, according to the SNF, not only jeopardize the credibility of the legislative institution but also pose a threat to the foundational principles of democracy upon which Nigeria is built.

    The position of the CSO was contained in a press statement it issued in Abuja and jointly signed by its Convener, Abdul Ahmed and Executive Director, Mansur Adegbite.

    Reaffirming the constitutional mandate of the National Assembly to scrutinize executive proposals and ensure transparency in the allocation of public funds, the SNF underscored the indispensability of robust oversight mechanisms in fostering governmental accountability and nurturing public trust.

    The organization lamented the exploitation of genuine concerns surrounding budgetary processes by certain opposition factions for political gain, cautioning against the dissemination of baseless accusations and the propagation of divisive narratives that risk eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.

    In a resolute stance against attempts to undermine the credibility of the National Assembly, the SNF urged all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to uphold the sanctity of democratic principles and refrain from engaging in actions detrimental to national unity and cohesion.

    Moreover, the SNF called upon the leadership of the National Assembly to remain steadfast in their dedication to serving the interests of the Nigerian populace and safeguarding democratic norms.

    Emphasizing the imperative of unity and collaboration in confronting the nation’s challenges, the organization reiterated its support for efforts aimed at promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance within the country.

    In a final declaration, the SNF extended a vote of confidence in the leadership of Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, and Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, dismissing calls for their resignation as baseless and politically motivated.

    The organization affirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and advancing the collective interests of its citizens.

  • Shelve planned protest for national security, peace – CSO tells NLC

    Shelve planned protest for national security, peace – CSO tells NLC

    A Civil Society Organisation (CSO),  Lagos People’s Assembly (LPA) has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to shelve its planned two days protest  for the sake of national peace and security.

    The Convener of the group, Mr Gbenga Soloki made this known at a news conference in Lagos on Sunday.

    Soloki said the organised labour should rather, opt for constructive engagement with the government,  instead of disrupting the socio-economic life at this point in time.

    NLC  had insisted on  planned  protest against  prevailing  challenges  in the country, in defiance to  warnings by the Department of State Services, to shelve it.
    The organised labour, on Monday, began mobilising its members for a nationwide protest slated for Feb.  27 and Feb.  28.

    Soloki said the  proposed protest  at this point in time,  would be injurious to the economic wellbeing of the people of Lagos State,  Nigerians and a negation of what labour stood  for.
    “We recognise the right of the labour unions to embark on protests or strikes, as conscientious citizens and residents of Lagos  state but embarking on such protest at this point will be counter productive.

    “Lagos state like we all know is a volatile environment, and some anti democratic elements may  pull the state and Nigeria backward, at the slightest  opportunity.

    “The trauma of the 2020 #EndSARS protests with its damage to limbs, destruction of life, public and private property still haunts us till date.”

    Soloki, who is the President, Campaign Against Impunity and Domestic Violence, said the only solution to the economic challenges remained constructive engagements between the government and  citizenry.
    The convener said the Lagos state government had inaugurated its committee on the distribution of palliatives which was made up of eminent Nigerians.

    He  said the committee should be given the benefit of the doubt while urging other state governments to follow suit.

    Soloki added that the palliatives would assist in ameliorating the economic challenges.

    “Our group and others will monitor the various social intervention programmes,  recently announced by the Lagos state government.”
    He said this was to ensure they were judiciously executed for the benefit of the people,  and we  would also provide regular independent reports to the Lagos state government as our own  contribution.
    Soloki promised that the group would at all times, hold government at all levels, accountable to the tenets of good governance, while also admonishing  residents and the citizenry to be alive to their duties and responsibilities.