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Unveiling Okangaism: Evaluating Phillip Agbese’s Political Philosophy

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Unveiling Okangaism: Evaluating Phillip Agbese’s Political Philosophy

By Sunny Green Itodo

Phillip Agbese (Esq.), an esteemed politician in Nigeria, has garnered attention from both political and non-political circles due to his distinctive style of politicking. His approach to politics is still relatively rare in Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape, resembling the egalitarianism of Abraham Lincoln. However, his personal political philosophy remains elusive in English lexicon, leading me to christen it “Okangaism.”

Hon. Chief Agbese proudly identifies as the talking drum of Agila – Okanga. In this role, his beats resonate through his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service.

Over the years, the sound of his drum has transcended the boundaries of Agila, Enone (Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency), Idomaland, Benue State, Nigeria, and beyond. Yet, the beats remain the same: philanthropy and service.

It is through his simple acts of kindness that he has endeared himself to many. This was evident in the fiercely contested February 25th election in Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo federal constituency, where he emerged victorious. His exemplary track record served as his greatest campaigner, earning him support across party lines.

Agbese’s election as the representative of Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives is a response to the long-standing prayers of the suffering people of Enone and, by extension, Nigeria.

A natural leader, High Chief Phillip Agbese adopted the moniker “Enone Servant” shortly after becoming a Member-elect of the House of Representatives. This uncommon “servant-leader” mindset embraced by Agbese has left his constituents ecstatic as he assumes the mantle of representation on June 13, 2023.

Antecedents, they say, shape expectations. This could explain the enthusiasm enveloping Enone as Chief Phillip Agbese’s inauguration as Congressman approaches.

The people of Enone believe they have struck gold with Agbese. They are aware that they are sending a formidable representative to the Green Chambers, a tested-and-trusted illustrious son to the 10th National Assembly.

They recognize his immense potential, sagacity, and oratory skills, supported by undeniable evidence.

I share their sentiments wholeheartedly. With Agbese, one can only anticipate quality and unparalleled representation.

I dare say, congratulations to Okanga Y’Agila! Congratulations to The Land of the Sage! Congratulations to The Heartbeat of Benue South Politics! Congratulations to The Food Basket of the Nation! And, congratulations to our beloved nation, Nigeria!

Sunny Green Itodo,
Public Affairs Analyst/Newspaper Columnist writing from Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA, Benue State.

Wike praises Tinubu for sacking Emefiele as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria

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Wike praises Tinubu for sacking Emefiele as Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria

Late on Friday night, Tinubu took action against Emefiele and directed him to immediately hand over Folashodun Shonubi, who served as the bank’s Deputy Governor for the Operations Directorate.

Wike, who was one of the critics of Emefiele’s policies, particularly the redesign of the Naira, described the decision made by the President as courageous and appropriate while reacting to the new development.

According to a statement released by his media team, the former governor of Rivers State commanded President Tinubu for approving uniformity in the retirement age and pension of judicial officers across the country.

Read Also: APC promises not to disrespect South East in political appointments

He stated that the action of the President will breathe fresh air into the nation’s judicial system and give it a new lease on life.

Wike stated that he and the other members of the G5 are impressed by the President’s focused and exemplary leadership, which will lead to the prosperity of the county. Wike also noted that this has led to their admiration.

Tinubu appoints Folashodun Shonubi as acting Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria

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Tinubu appoints Folashodun Shonubi as acting Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria

Mr. Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi has been appointed to serve as the acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria by President Bola Tinubu.

Godwin Emefiele was removed from his position as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria on Friday, which led to the appointment of Shonubi.

Before he was given this position, he had been serving as the Deputy Governor of the Operations Directorate.

This information was shared on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, a media aide for Tinubu. He did so in a post on his Twitter handle.

Read Also: Tinubu signs bill into law that allows states and individuals to generate, distribute electricity

In a written statement, he said, “Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi is the acting governor of the CBN.” Since October of 2018, he has been serving as the Deputy Governor of the Operations Directorate. His birthday is March 7th, and he was born in 1962. Between the years 1978 and 1983, he was enrolled at the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. In addition to that, he is the representative of the CBN on the FIRS board.

It was reported that Emefiele had been given the order to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to the Deputy Governor (Operations Directorate), who will act as the Central Bank Governor pending the conclusion of the investigation and the reforms. Emefiele is expected to comply with this directive.

DSS arrests suspend Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele

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DSS arrests suspend Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele

Godwin Emefiele, who serves as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has been taken into custody by the Department of State Services (DSS).

It was reported that President Bola Tinubu made the decision to suspend Emefiele from his position on Friday evening. This development comes as a result of that decision.

After being removed from his position, Emefiele was given the instruction to hand over the responsibilities of his office to the Deputy Governor of the Operations Directorate. This individual will take over as the acting Governor of the Central Bank while the investigation and any necessary reforms are carried out. However, the DSS’s decision to place Emefiele under arrest has brought an entirely new level of complexity to the situation.

Read Also: Barewa College rejects Muritala Yakubu’s testimonial

It is important to keep in mind that the DSS submitted its case (an ex-parte motion) against Emefiele on December 7, 2022, asking for permission to arrest, investigate, and detain him. On the other hand, a federal high court in Abuja rejected the application that the DSS had submitted on December 9th.

The DSS alleges that Emefiele is guilty of the following crimes:

1. Providing financial support to members of a group known only as “Unknown Gunmen,” as well as to the Economic Support Network and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), using funds that he had previously raised for his unsuccessful run for the presidency the previous year. 2.

2. Poor administration of Nigeria’s social investment programme (also known as NISRAL and the Anchor Borrowers Scheme)

3. Illegal economic activity that poses a threat to the national security

4. Money Laundering

5. Unsavoury behaviour conducted through intermediaries

6. making a complete circuit

7. The provision of monetary advantages to oneself as well as to other parties

8. A Danger to the Safety of the Nation

9. Illicit scheme to steal money or other resources from the government

10. The Financing of Terrorism

Tinubu signs bill into law that allows states and individuals to generate, distribute electricity

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Tinubu signs bill into law that allows states and individuals to generate, distribute electricity

The Electricity Act 2023, which was initially approved by legislators in July 2022, has received the blessing of the country’s head of state, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Electricity and Power Sector Reform Act of 2005 will be replaced by the Electricity Act in the near future.

It offers a structure that can direct the post-privatization phase of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) and encourage investments from the private sector in the industry.

The Electricity Act seeks to guide a variety of functions; some of these functions are highlighted below:

The law empowers states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. This de-monopolization of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution in Nigeria is mandated at the national level by the law.

Read Also: Makinde promises assistance as Mouka Foam considers expansion

Under the provisions of the act, states have the authority to grant licences to private investors, allowing them to operate power plants and mini-grids within the state. Nevertheless, the act makes it illegal to distribute electricity across state lines or internationally.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) will be able to regulate the electricity sector within Nigeria as a result of the Electricity Act 2023. However, this will not affect the powers of the states to make laws, create electricity markets within those states, and regulate those markets.

The act stipulates the procedures that NERC must follow in order to hand over its regulatory responsibilities to state regulators once those bodies come into existence.

NERC is going to continue to regulate the electricity business that is carried out exclusively in those states until such time as those states pass their own laws governing the electricity market.

At this time, the states of Lagos, Edo, and Kaduna already have laws governing their respective electricity markets and can begin the process of regulating those markets.

However, NERC will regulate other states because those states do not have such laws. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) will continue to carry out cross-border regulation, meaning that both generation and transmission between states will continue to be regulated by NERC.

Through their respective Committees on Power in the Senate and House of Representatives, lawmakers are given the authority to carry out oversight responsibilities and functions over the NESI as a result of the act.

This is to be done regardless of the supervisory powers that any government ministry may have over government-owned enterprises or other entities that are active in the industry of supplying electricity to Nigeria.

Licensees that generate electricity are required to fulfil any renewable generation obligations that may be imposed by the North American Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Companies that generate electricity will be required by the act to either generate power from renewable energy sources, purchase power generated from renewable energy or acquire any instrument representing renewable energy generation. One of these three options must be chosen in order to comply with the mandate.

The Electricity Act includes a provision that compels licensees involved in the distribution or supply of electricity to fulfil renewable purchase obligations.

Read Also: APC promises not to disrespect South East in political appointments

According to another provision of the act, a licence is not required for anyone to construct, own, or operate an undertaking for the generation of electricity with a capacity not exceeding one megawatt (MW) in aggregate at a site, or an undertaking for the distribution of electricity with a capacity not exceeding one hundred kilowatts (KW) in aggregate at a site, or such other capacity as NERC may determine from time to time. Both of these capacities are capped at a single location.

Tinubu suspends Emefiele as CBN Governor

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Tinubu suspends Emefiele as CBN Governor

Godwin Emefiele, the Governor of the Central Bank, was removed from his position effective immediately following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove him.

Willie Bassey, who serves as the Director of Information in the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, divulged this information in a statement that was released late on Friday night.

Read Also: APC promises not to disrespect South East in political appointments

According to the statement, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was suspended as a direct result of the ongoing investigation into his office as well as the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy.

A directive has been issued to Mr Emefiele instructing him to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to the Deputy Governor (Operations Directorate), who will act as the Central Bank Governor until the investigation and reforms are brought to a successful conclusion.

Details later…

APC promises not to disrespect South East in political appointments

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APC promises not to disrespect South East in political appointments

Despite the fact that the All Progressives Congress (APC) performed poorly in all five states that make up the South East during the general elections in 2023, the party has made a commitment not to exclude or discriminate against the region when making political appointments.

It has been reported that APC believes that a fair distribution of political positions would be possible.

During the official opening of the new APC State Secretariat in Enugu, Mr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, APC National Vice Chairman for the South East, disclosed this information to the attendees.

Read Also: Makinde promises assistance as Mouka Foam considers expansion

In response to a question regarding the absence of Igbos in recent appointments made by President Bola Tinubu, the APC National Vice Chairman stated that many Igbos would still be appointed into strategic positions in the future.

As a consequence of this, he pleaded with the Igbo people to back Tinubu’s administration, highlighting the fact that the President would look out for their best interests.

During the general elections that took place in 2023, Tinubu received the fewest number of votes in the South East.

LP slams lawmaker-elect Ogah for praising Tinubu

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LP slams lawmaker-elect Ogah for praising Tinubu

Amobi Ogah, who will serve as a member of the House of Representatives for the Labour Party, has come under fire from the leadership of the party for a recent statement he made regarding President Bola Tinubu.

On Thursday, Ogah, a lawmaker who represents the Isuikwuato-Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State, expressed his admiration for Tinubu, saying that he never knew Tinubu was so intelligent. Tinubu is the state governor of Abia.

The legislator made the statement not long after the president’s meeting with the newly elected representatives for the 10th Assembly, which took place at the State House.

He said:

“Today is the best day of my life. I am overjoyed to be an elected member and to be able to listen to my president speak. In point of fact, I had no idea that this individual possessed such a high IQ,” he stated.

Read Also: In Calabar, EFCC arrests twins, 26 others for internet fraud

“I had no idea that this man is so well-equipped to serve this country in any capacity. I witnessed love, character, and charisma, as well as the conviction that Nigeria has the potential to become a better nation.

As a result, he gave the president his word that he would stand by him, stating that his loyalty would be to the country rather than to any particular political party.

Meanwile, on Friday in Abuja, a statement was issued with the title “Hon. Ogah’s position on President Tinubu’s leadership, personal not party position.”

Obiora Ifoh, who is currently serving as the party’s Acting National Publicity Secretary, put his name to the statement.

At a time when the LP presidential candidate is fighting to reclaim his mandate before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, he believes that such a comment shouldn’t be coming from any member of the LP at all. He said this.

The following is an excerpt from the statement:

“The attention of the leadership of the Labour Party has been drawn to an interview granted by one of our members-elect for the House of Representatives, Hon. Amobi Ogah. In the interview, he expressed his satisfaction with the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and said that some of his colleagues have “agreed to go towards government decision” on the leadership of the 10th Assembly. The interview was granted by one of our members-elect for the House of Representatives.

“As an individual, he does not have the mandate to speak for the party, and as a result, he cannot claim to be standing on the platform of the Labour Party in order to do the same, giving views that are diametrically opposed to what the Labour Party stands for,” she said.

Read Also: Breaking: “I could have slapped Kwankwaso if I met him in Aso Rock” – Ganduje

Every testimony that has come out of the tribunal points to the fact that Labour Party clearly won the election but was cheated out of their victory. The Labour Party is currently in the tribunal hoping to retrieve our mandate, which was expressly given to our presidential candidate on February 25. “Every testimony that has come out of the tribunal points to the fact that Labour Party clearly won the election but was cheated out of their victory. We have not wavered in our conviction that right will ultimately prevail and that it will do so very soon.

Barewa College rejects Muritala Yakubu’s testimonial

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Barewa College rejects Muritala Yakubu’s testimonial

Muritala Yakubu, the candidate for governorship of the Social Democratic Party in the election that will take place on November 11 2023 in Kogi State, made claims that he was an old student at Barewa College in Zaria. However, this claim has been debunked by the college.

In response to a request made by a member of the Kogi East Elders Forum, Professor Hassan Isah, for the authentication of a testimonial from the school that had been presented by Yakubu, the Principal of the school, Alhassan Isyaku, stated that the candidate for governor was not a student at the school. Yakubu had presented the testimonial to Prof. Hassan Isah.

Read Also: In Calabar, EFCC arrests twins, 26 others for internet fraud

In his response, which was titled “Re-Authentication of Testimonial: Muritala Yakubu B 14667” and which was leaked to the media on Friday, the school principal said, “Reference to your letter dated 30th May, 2023 for the above subject matter, I write to inform you that the above named was not a student of Barewa College Zaria.”

“After conducting exhaustive research in the areas listed below:
(i) 1995 Admissions register (ii) 1998 WAEC gazette (iii) List of admission (iv) Classes files

“We were unable to locate the student identified above. We sincerely hope that the information that was provided above will be helpful.”

In the event that the assertions made by Barewa College are validated, Yakubu runs the risk of being charged with forgery, which is a criminal offence.

Read Also: Enugu’s governor meets with Tinubu to ask for Nnamdi Kanu’s release

Prof. Isah had written in his request for authentication of the governorship candidate’s student status, which was dated May 30th, 2023 and personally signed by him, “I hereby write to attach a testimonial issued to Muritala Yakubu by this highly prestigious institution. This testimonial was issued to Muritala Yakubu by this highly prestigious institution.

We would be extremely appreciative if you could assist us in confirming the accuracy of this information.

The letter was written to be delivered to Barewa College’s Head of Administration.

Breaking: “I could have slapped Kwankwaso if I met him in Aso Rock” – Ganduje

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Breaking: “I could have slapped Kwankwaso if I met him in Aso Rock” – Ganduje

Former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje has been quoted as saying that he would not hesitate to give his predecessor Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso a slap at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, should he be given the opportunity to do so.

On Friday at Aso Rock, it was reported that Kwankwaso also met with President Bola Tinubu.
Ganduje voiced his displeasure to the reporters who were present at the State House when he was questioned about the current state of security in Kano State following the demolition that was carried out by the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

Even though he admitted that Kwankwaso was present in the building, he stated that he and Kwankwaso had not come into contact with one another.

Read Also: NYSC, NPC, and UNICEF join forces to improve Nigerian birth registration

Ganduje boasted to his audience, “Probably if we met, maybe I could have slapped him.”

Ganduje vehemently criticized the exercise in demolition, citing the absence of a proper investigation or prior notice, both of which are required by the Land Use Act.

According to the former governor of Kano, during his conversation with the president, the president discussed the issue at length and presented a petition to the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba. This information was obtained from their conversation. According to him, the petition was accompanied by video evidence of the looting and vandalism that occurred as a direct result of the demolition.

Ganduje continued by saying that the current governor is a “stooge” of Kwankwaso and that the governor’s recent unhappiness can be attributed to the widespread condemnation that has been received for the demolitions.

It is important to keep in mind that the current governor of the state had defended the activity by stating that it was a part of his commitment to “restore” the urban development master plan for the city. He also emphasized that the demolitions were not driven by any personal vendetta against the previous administration led by Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. He dropped a hint that additional demolitions could be expected in the future by saying that more demolitions could be expected in the future.

Read Also: Makinde promises assistance as Mouka Foam considers expansion

At the time this story was published, Kwankwaso was still participating in a meeting with the President that was held behind closed doors.

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