CNPP, CSOs Blame Smear Campaign Against Naval Chief Ogalla On Frustrated Oil Thieves

 

Conference Of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and over 38 Civil Society Organisations, under the umbrella of the Coalition Of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have described online reports linking Nigeria's Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, to alleged multibillion naira oil bunkering and contract-splitting fraud as “the handiwork of a frustrated syndicate involved in stealing of Nigeria's crude oil.” 

Some online media platforms had reposted an allegation that a preliminary investigations estimated that the Naval Chief had accepted over $170 million in bribes over the past six months alone.

However, in a statement jointly signed by the CNPP's Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema and the National Secretary of the CNCSOs, Alhaji Ali Abacha, they described the allegations as “dead on arrival as efforts to truncate the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration's renewed quest to mitigate the stealing of the country's crude oil is the target of the disgruntled ring's attack on Ogalla. 

“We strongly believe that it was based on Ogalla's track records of service that prompted Mr. President to trust him with the appointment in the first place and he has in the last six months shown that President Tinubu did not make any mistake in his choice of the Naval Chief. 

“It has since become evident that since the Chief of Naval Staff launched the Nigerian Navy's “Operation Delta Sanity”, which has been embraced by the government and leaders of the Niger Delta states, the oil thieves are increasingly uncomfortable. 

“The new anti-crude oil theft tactical operation initiated by the Chief of Naval Staff and his effort to provide necessary equipment for personnel have become a serious nightmare for the enemies of the country's economy due to its holistic and robust roadmap against crude oil theft and other forms of illegalities on Nigeria's territorial waters. 

“The Nigerian Navy in its reaction to the syndicated allegations expressly disclosed that all the vessels alleged to have been released, which was the basis of the bogus $170 million allegedly received by the Naval Chief in bribes, are still in the custody and undergoing investigation. 

“The Navy said unambiguously and we quote: “Indeed, all arrested vessels mentioned in the publication that were involved in crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering are being investigated and none of such vessels has been released as alleged.” 

“So, if the basis for the allegation, which is the arrested vessels, are still in custody, we call on the Chief of Naval Staff to disregard the detractors and continue with his renewed efforts against oil thieves in support of President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. 

“Nigerians are currently suffering from severe economic hardship and we urge President Tinubu and the Naval Chief not to be deterred by the smear tactic and discrediting actions of the oil stealing syndicate who are increasing unable to continue in their nefarious trade. 

“It is on record that the CNPP and CNCSOs have been in the forefront of the agitation for an end to the brazen thieving of Nigeria's crude oil in the last eight years and we will back every genuine efforts aimed mitigating the age-long economic sabotage for the benefit of the suffering masses. 

“On the contract splitting allegation, the Navy has issued a clear response and there is no need over-flogging a dead horse as we call on President Tinubu not to succumb to the antics of the already drowning oil thieves who would naturally fight back by all means possible, including the ongoing syndicated blackmail”, the CNPP and the CSOs said.

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PRESIDENT TINUBU'S APPROVAL OF THREE BILLION NAIRA FOR VERIFICATION OF NATIONAL REGISTER AND THE UNENDING PROFLIGACY OF THE PRESIDENCY

 

Coalition United Political Parties CUPP is distressed by the report emanating from Saharareporters of the approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila to the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to expend an outrageous and mind-boggling sum of N3,000,000,000(three billion naira) to verify the national register of the poor. 

CUPP frowns and condemns this mindless attack on our collective purse in the name of verification of the national register.

This reckless and mindless spending on verification of national register reflects a lack of fiscal discipline and responsibility that has become a hallmark of President Tinubu's government who in the guise of helping the poor, keeps elevating cronyism as an art, which we ignorantly thought had gone with President Buhari's administration.

CUPP believes that a prudent approach could have achieved the same goal with less of our tax money through the acquisition of the same national register from the thirty-six states of the federation and FCT wherein the rural areas are predominantly domiciled and is pained that this elementary form of conservation of public funds was wilfully neglected on the alter of cronyism, raising CUPP's concern and that of majority of Nigerians about the financial stewardship and the efficient allocation of our scarce resources by this government to projects that will trully be beneficial to the masses. 

It is CUPP's belief that this mindless spending through cronies such as New Planet Projects Limited, a company controlled by the family of Dr. Bunmi Tunji Ojo, the Minister of Interior undermines whatever little confidence Nigerians may have had in the present government, and therefore brings to the fore the urgent need for more rigorous budgetary oversights by the National Assembly, which has from day one begun to exhibit all the symptoms of a rubber stamp parliament that abdicates its oversight functions when most needed.

High Chief Peter Ameh

National Secretary CUPP.

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CNPP Urges Tinubu Govt To Do More Working Than Talking, Says FDI Won't Increase in Absence of Security And Rule Of Law

 

Conference Of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has encouraged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to begin to do more of working than talking as “the current decline in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the country will worsen unless the government tackles insecurity and improve in the area of institutionalising the rule of law.” 

The CNPP spoke while reacting to the president's New Year Message, saying that “it is obvious that investment tops the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration's agenda but will be very difficult to achieve in the obvious absence of security and rule of law.” 

This was contained in a statement signed by the CNPP's Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema. 

According to the statement, the CNPP maintained that “though President Tinubu affirmed that on every foreign trip he has embarked on, his message to investors and other business people has been that `Nigeria is ready and open for businessʼ, it is not enough.

“The Tinubu administration has continued to make promises over the past seven months as if the government is campaigning in an election rather than walking the talk.

“For the Tinubu administration to succeed, the government and its officials should stop praise-singing and celebration of its achievements. Nigerians can differentiate between a government that is working for them and the one that is not.

“It's time to deal with insecurity and end the killing of the innocent in the country. That is the primary purpose of government; to protect lives and property of the citizens.

“Secondly, upholding the rule of law is an important factor if Nigeria must attract key Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as no investor will invest in a society where the government does not obey court judgments or where court orders can be procured at the black markets.

“This explains why the recent capital importation data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that the total FDI that came into Nigeria in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 was only $48 million, and compared to the previous quarter, the FDI inflow to the country experienced a decline, dropping from $84 million in Q4 2022 to $48 million in Q1 2023, which is about 43%. But on a year-on-year comparison, there was a substantial 69% decrease, as FDI fell from $155 million in Q1 2022 to $48 million in Q1 2023.

“The CNPP therefore encourages the President Tinubu administration to do more in practice than talks as the country's FDI won't increase in the absence of security and rule of law”, the statement concluded.

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Okwadike, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, CON - A True Patriot, A Quintessential Leader and An Exceptional Democrat.

 

We received with utmost disbelief, the sudden demise of one of the Nation's finest and most eloquent and patriotic democrat, Okwadike, Chief Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife OON. 

Indeed, his demise has created a huge vacuum in the Nigerian political and social order.

Chief Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife remained consistent in his struggle for a better Nigerian Nation and was until his death, a comforting shoulder for all ethnic nationalities across the Nigerian State.  

His moral and ethical disposition will remain an invaluable asset to those aspiring for public offices. 

We pray that God will grant him eternal rest and give his family, the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Signed : 

High Chief Peter Ameh 

National Secretary 

Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP).

National Headquarters, Abuja.

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Terrorism: Minister Of State For Defence Matawale's US Visit Excites Northern Groups

 

The recent visit by the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawale, to the United States of America has been commended by several Northern groups under the North Central Stakeholders Forum for its immense significance in addressing the fight against terrorism and other security challenges in Nigeria. 

The Stakeholders Forum, in a statement signed by its Convener, Mohammed A. Mohammed noted that the visit, which involved engaging in discussions with members of the US Congress, was meant to strengthen bilateral cooperation, share intelligence, and seek support in combating terrorism. 

"The importance of this visit cannot be overstated, as it holds the potential to bring about positive changes in Nigeria's security landscape" they said. 

The Forum said first and foremost, the visit by Minister Matawale signifies the commitment of the Nigerian government to tackle the issue of terrorism head-on. 

"By reaching out to the United States, a global superpower with extensive experience in counterterrorism efforts, Matawale is demonstrating the willingness of Nigeria to learn from the best and adopt effective strategies in combating terrorism. This proactive approach is crucial in addressing the security challenges that have plagued the country for far too long."

They said engaging in discussions with members of the US Congress is another significant step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. 

"The exchange of ideas, sharing of intelligence, and collaboration on counterterrorism efforts can greatly enhance Nigeria's capacity to combat terrorism. The United States has a wealth of knowledge and resources that can be tapped into, and this visit provides an opportunity for Nigeria to leverage these assets for the benefit of its citizens," the Forum pointed out. 

They said seeking support from the United States in the fight against terrorism is a wise move by the Defense Minister Matawale. 

"Terrorism is a global issue that requires a collective response, and the support of the international community is crucial in effectively addressing this menace. 

“By reaching out to the United States, the Minister is signaling Nigeria's commitment to working with other nations to eradicate terrorism and create a safer world for all."

The visit by Minister Matawale, the groups explained, also highlights the importance of intelligence sharing in the fight against terrorism which is a complex and ever-evolving threat. 

"Timely and accurate intelligence is essential in staying one step ahead of the terrorists. By engaging with the United States, Nigeria can tap into their vast intelligence network and benefit from their expertise in gathering and analyzing intelligence. 

“This collaboration can significantly enhance Nigeria's ability to detect and prevent terrorist activities, ultimately leading to a more secure and stable nation," they said.

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" A TRUE PATRIOT GOES HOME", Chief Peter Ameh

 

We received immense sadness, the departure of a true patriot who gave his all, including his freedom for the enthronement of democracy and justice in Nigeria.

We also remember the role he played and the bitter struggle he fought in his lifetime for the revalidation of annuled June 12, 1993 election.

Mr. Kokori was severally incarcerated by the military junta for his opposition to military dictatorships, but we are comforted in the fact that his struggle for democracy we practice today was not in vain, no matter how imperfect.

We that are alive owe him that huge debt of improving our democracy so that our votes will count on election days.

Our hearts and condolences go to the family he left behind, and may the Almighty God grant him eternal rest.

WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SELFLESSNESS COMMITMENT AND COURAGE TOWARDS THE BUILDING OF PROGRESSIVE AND PROSPEROUS COUNTRY. 

Chief Peter Ameh

National Secretary CUPP

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Abba Kabir Yusuf Vs APC: Coalition Of Yoruba Groups Tasks Supreme Court On Review Of Guber Case

 

A Coalition of SouthWest Groups, under its umbrella body, the Coalition Of The Yoruba Youth Network (YYN), comprising the South West Blossom Brigade (SBB), the Odua Youth Frontiers (OYF), the Yoruba Youth Empowerment Forum (YYEF), the Voice Of Yoruba Youths (VOYY), the Odua Progressive People Assembly (OPPA) and no fewer than fourteen other youth organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) have reacted to the Court of Appeal judgment on the Kano State governorship election petition between Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the All Progressives Congress (APC) as it relates to the integrity of the Nigerian Justice System. 

The Coalition urged the Supreme Court of Nigeria, as the highest judicial authority in the country, to exercise its responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the judiciary by thoroughly reviewing the case. 

They noted that “by conducting a thorough review of these rulings, the Supreme Court can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all.”

At a world press conference in Lagos, South West of Nigeria, the groups insisted that it will be detrimental to the principle of justice and democracy in the country. 

Speaking on behalf of the Coalition of Southwest Groups, Comrade Razak Olukayode, argued that a similar situation in Osun State, as presented itself in the Kano State governorship election petition, did not lead to the nullification of the election of Senator Ademola Adeleke. 

He said, “This coalition of Southwest groups is deeply concerned about recent controversial Appeal Court rulings on the Kano State Governorship election, which has raised serious questions about the integrity of Nigeria's justice system. 

“We wish to caution against compromising the nation's judiciary and emphasize the importance of maintaining its independence, transparency, and integrity. 

“In the case of the Kano Governorship election, the ruling of the Court of Appeal has raised doubts about the fairness of the nation's judiciary and the legitimacy of the electoral process. 

“This ruling severely jeopardizes the expected role of the judiciary as the cornerstone of democracy and justice in any nation.

“We observe that the Court of Appeal decision in the Kano case of Abba vs APC has deviated from established principles of electoral jurisprudence regarding the issue of nomination and sponsorship, which falls under the exclusive purview of pre-election matters. 

“Various judicial authorities, including the recent Peter Obi v INEC case, have emphasized that only the Federal High Court has jurisdiction to adjudicate over nomination issues”, the Coalition said. 

According to the groups, the “Tribunal in the Abba vs APC case correctly stated that nomination is a pre-election matter but could not make a pronouncement on the issue due to lack of jurisdiction. 

“We highlight the injustice of upholding the Tribunal's decision to nullify 166,000 votes from the tally of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and sacking the incumbent governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf. 

“The Appeal Court's decision to uphold the nullification of such a significant number of votes without proper justification undermines the democratic fabric of the nation and raises questions about the impartiality of the judiciary.

“The decision to nullify 166,000 votes from the NNPP's tally in the Kano governorship election raises questions about the consistency and fairness of their judgments. In this case, the court cited irregularities and non-compliance with electoral laws as the basis for nullifying the votes”, the Coalition added .

They further argued, however, that “it is essential to note that similar irregularities were present in the case of Governor Adeleke, where the Court of Appeal ruled against nullifying votes. 

“By nullifying votes that were deemed to be irregular in Kano, the court fails to address the contradiction in its ruling in the case of Governor Adeleke, where similar irregularities were present but not nullified. 

“This inconsistency in applying legal principles undermines the principle of equal treatment before the law and raises doubts about the court's impartiality.

“Furthermore, the controversies surrounding the discrepancies between the judgment read out by the court and the content of the Certified True Copy of the Judgment in the Kano governorship election raise serious doubts about the transparency and integrity of the judicial process. 

“These discrepancies have led to confusion and speculation among the public, further eroding public trust in the judiciary.

“While it is necessary to ensure that political parties adhere to electoral guidelines, the decision to upturn the entire election in Kano raises questions about the legitimacy of the democratic process.

“Arguably, this ruling undermines the people's right to choose their leaders and places excessive power in the hands of the judiciary. This controversy highlights the need for a balance between upholding the rule of law and respecting the democratic will of the people”, they further stated. 

The contradictions in the Court of Appeal's decisions, they said, “highlight the need for a comprehensive review of the electoral laws and the judicial process. It sets a dangerous precedent for future elections. 

“Nullifying the Kano votes and allowing those of Osun without clear and consistent legal reasoning can lead to a loss of public trust in the judiciary and the electoral process. 

“Moreover, it opens the door for potential abuse of power, as political actors may exploit these inconsistencies to manipulate election outcomes. 

“The court's role should be to provide clarity and consistency in interpreting and applying the law, rather than contributing to confusion and uncertainty. 

“The controversies surrounding these rulings also raise questions about the accuracy and reliability of the court's decision-making process, suggesting a lack of attention to detail and procedural irregularities. This further erodes public confidence in the judiciary.

“We emphasize the need for a review of these rulings to ensure that justice is served and the rule of law is upheld. By reevaluating the evidence and legal arguments presented, the Supreme Court can rectify any potential errors made by the Court of Appeal, thereby restoring public faith in the judiciary.

“The review of the Court of Appeal rulings on the Kano governorship elections is not only necessary to rectify potential errors but also to reclaim the threatened integrity of the judiciary. 

“The credibility and impartiality of the judiciary are fundamental to the functioning of a democratic society, as they ensure that citizens have confidence in the legal system.

“The Supreme Court, as the highest judicial authority in Nigeria, has the responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the judiciary. By conducting a thorough review of these rulings, the Supreme Court can demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for all. 

“By rectifying any potential errors and ensuring that justice is served, the Supreme Court can reaffirm its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining the principles of justice and fairness within the Nigerian democratic system.

The judiciary should exercise caution and impartiality when making decisions that impact the democratic process.

“In conclusion, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act as a true statesman and renowned democrat by upholding the principles of separation of powers, particularly the independence of the judiciary. 

“By allowing the free, fair, and uninterrupted application of justice, President Tinubu will demonstrate his commitment to the rule of law and ensure the continued strength of Nigeria's democratic institutions. It is crucial for him to avoid any interference with the course of justice, keeping in mind that he himself has benefited from fair judicial adjudication.

“Interference with the course of justice poses a significant threat to the principles of separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary. Such interference can lead to a compromised justice system, eroding public trust and undermining the rule of law. 

“President Tinubu must be cautious not to allow his name to be smeared in the dirty game of interference, as it would not only tarnish his reputation but also weaken the democratic fabric of the nation”, the Yoruba groups argued.

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