#FesaElection'21: OMOYELE TACKLES ONLINE MEDIA PRACTITIONER; CALLS FOR IRREGULARITIES IN THE ELECTIONEERING PROCESS

FEDERATION OF ERIN-OSUN STUDENTS' ASSOCIATION (FESA)

National Headquarters, Erin-Osun, Osun State.

Official Press Release from the Office of the President, Comr. OMOH

Friday 8th of January, 2021.

 

On the 5th of January, 2021 at a time exactly 3:14pm, I received a call from the Editor-In-Cheif of Insight Links, an Online Media practitioner who interrogated me via phone conversation on why I invited an external body to swear me in as the elected president of FESA on the 1st of January, 2021? The interrogation which was later put into written and published through August Digital Creation.

This same question that; what gave you the boldness and audacity to invite NAOSS National president that is outside the provision of FESA constitution to do swearing in for you as the National president of the Federation of Erin-Osun Students' Association (FESA) has not only been the question from this online media expert but also a question that has led some stakeholders and students of this association into confusion.

 

My simple answer to this question is, on the day of election, as one of the presidential aspirants for 2020/21 FESA general election, I lost my confidence totally and completely in all members of the electoral committee through their activities on that day. Part of which we had that some set of people that were not eligible to vote were accredited and allowed to cast their votes to favor the opposing camp which was clearly visible to everyone on the election ground.

 

Another act is an awkward movement which had been perceived by the members of the electoral with the Erin-Osun National youth leader, Alhj. Adeyemo Asimiyu Omotunde and some stakeholders that if by chance, Comr OMOH emerged as the president, the electoral committee will not declare him as the winner because of their sentiment and personal interest unrevealed to anyone. This coupled with the fact that, majority of the decision made by the electoral committee were been influenced by this set of stakeholders.

Also, on the constitutional eligibility of the members of the electoral committee, three of the members were serving honourables which is an highest order of constitution aberration. The electoral PRO and Secretary in the person of Hon. Sodiq Toheeb and Hon. AbdulAzeez Olaide Sabit respectively were honourable members for the immediate past administration, 2019/2020. The electoral chairman, Hon. Oyeleke Babawale who happened to be the cousin of the immediate past president, Oyeleke Oluwsola Solomon (Success) who was fully supporting the other aspirant was also a member of the honourable and they had never ceased to be seen together just for once after his appointment as the chairman of the committee.

Although, all this inappropriateness had been noticed before the day of election and attention of many of them most especially the electoral chairman has been called into it that majority of our supporters have started to lose confidence in them. But in other not to allow history to repeat itself by dissolving the electoral few days to the election, as situation like that had happened two consecutive years ago, I personally keep hoping that things will be better before the election day on the part of the electoral committee. 

Distinguished FESAites, out of the ten offices contested for, four of it are highly competitive and the electoral committee had successfully counted and declared the winners for three offices which includes Rasheed Afeez as the PRO 1, Olanrewaju Tolulope Philip as the General Secretary and AbdulAziiz Abdulwaheed as the Vice President 1. All the winners which claimed their victory with OMOH's team. 

As a result of the unfortunate disruption of the counting of the presidential votes, some elected officers unanimously agree on Comrade Hammed Omoyele (OMOH) as the next FESA National President because it was glaring that the process was disrupted because it was to be in my favor as they are all convinced of my Leadership skills and competency. 

 

I remain my humble self, Comr. Hammed Omoyele, the 28th authentic, certified and endorsed FESA National President. In socio-politcal space, I cherrypicked OMOH as nick.

.... towards unity, progress and socio-educational advancement.

Signed:

Michael O. Akande

Omoh's Media Aide

#FESADECIDES'21: OMOYELE RULES OUT PEACE TALK MEETING OUTCOME, CALLED IT 'UNSATISFACTORY DECISION'

FEDERATION OF ERIN-OSUN STUDENTS' ASSOCIATION (FESA)

National Headquarters, Erin-Osun, Osun State.

Official Press Release from the Office of the President, Comr. OMOH.

06/01/2021

The distinguished and united FESAites!

This press release is to disregard information circulating on social media that Comr. Muhammad Afeez PC Progress has been declared as the president of the Federation of Erin-Osun students' Association for the year 2020/2021 administration.

On the 4th of January, 2021, courtesy visitation was made to the former commissioner of Osun State on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affair in person of Barr. Kolapo Alimi by #UnityTeam led by Comrade Hammed Omoyele (OMOH) to rejoice with him on his birthday and also to introduce themselves as the newly elected excos for the new administrative year, 2021.

While Barr. Kolapo Alimi was addressing the team with utmost joy and happiness, the pioneer president; Hon. Ayandele Rasheed came in and joined us in the conversation which centred on the propaganda by the ProgressTeam before the national election. 

Having through with the meeting, the pioneer president called on OMOH and Progress to a close standing meeting that a meeting will be summoned by 7pm in his resident at Iyaloja's compound Erin-Osun to have a peaceful talk with the two camps. The meeting which was stated clearly by the pioneer president that, himself and a past president Abifarin will be the only on attendance.

Meanwhile getting to the venue of the meeting, the whole narrative was changed whereby selected past presidents were joined and deviated completely from the agenda of summoning the meeting (PEACEFUL TALK WITH THE TWO PRESIDENTIAL ASPIRANTS). The attendance which include;

1- Past president Ayandele Rasheed

2- Past president Pa Deolu Abifarin

3- Past president Akeem Aniyameta

4- Past president Adeyemi Sheriff

5- Past president Akeem Oluremi

6- Past president Golden

7- Immediate past president Oyeleke Oluwsola Solomon

8- Oyeleke Babawale (Chairman Electoral Committee, 2020/21)

9- leader Alao Sheriffdeen (Africano)

10- The two presidential aspirants

11- Yusuff Fatima ( Past VP 1)

12- Rt. Hon. Harun Adebiyi (2021 Speaker)

If the meeting should be summoned with the name of the league of past presidents and the outcome shall be abided with by the two aspirants, then, all the past presidents must be aware and unanimously agree on such decision. As a matter of fact, the attendees were strictly selected people and I was compelled to step down all in the name of peace and not justice and progress was pronounced as the president. 

My able FESAites, I am saying this with all boldness to the entire Students of Erin-Osun both home and in diaspora that the outcome of the meeting was totally dissatisfied.

Greatest FESAites! Articulate FESAites! It's on this note I will say, we should disregard any form of information hammering that OMOH has stepped out of the race. All we want is peace, proper representation and development of the union. 

Together we stand for meaningful development and United FESAites!

Michael, O. Akande

Omoh's Media Aide

AARE AFE BABALOLA PERSONAL LIFE, CAREER, NET WORTH AND ACHIEVEMENT

EARLY LIFE

Aare Afe Babalola attended Emmanuel Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, where he obtained his standard six certificate. That was the end of his formal education. All the educational qualifications listed against his name above were obtained through private study. Aare Afe Babalola was at various times a pupil teacher, a secondary school teacher, secondary school vice principal, university lecturer, economist, auditor, administrator, farmer and educationist.

Today, he is a foremost legal icon of his generation not only on the African continent but in the world. The self-made man is proud of the qualitative primary education he had. It was the high quality of instruction received by him at the Primary School level, he says, proudly, that served as the foundation for his subsequent educational achievements. The founder is unhappy that the same quality of education is no longer available in most educational institutions. This development and his experience of dwindling qualities on standard of education in the University of Lagos where he was the Pro-Chancellor between 2002 and 2007 and other universities usually regarded as the best in the country that informed him of the urgent need to establish a first class university to serve as a benchmark for other universities. It is not going to be just one of the universities, it is going to be The University set to lead education reform by example in Nigeria.The Founder of Afe Babalola & Co. (a.k.a. Emmanuel Chambers), Aare Afe Babalola was called to the Bar in England in 1963. He is a member of the Lincoln’s Inn, London, a registered member of the Bar of England and Wales and a distinguished member of the Nigerian Bar. Aare Afe Babalola started his legal practice in the Chambers of Olu Ayoola and remained there till 1965 when he proceeded to establish the firm of Afe Babalola & Co (Emmanuel Chambers), reputed today as one of the leading law firms in Nigeria. He was admitted into the Nigerian Inner Bar as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987. Aare Afe Babalola has been in practice for about 50 years and is an active uninterrupted member of the Nigeria Bar Association and International Bar Association (IBA). He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Nigeria, Fellow of the Leadership Institute of Nigeria, member of the Body of Benchers, the highest legal body in Nigeria. He was the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos from 2001-2007 and one time Chairman of the Committee of Pro Chancellors of Nigerian Universities. Aare Afe Babalola is the founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State (ABUAD). He is a traditional chief and a holder of the prestigious national honours of the Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR) and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

AFE BABALOLA PERSONAL LIFE AND NET WORTH

Chief Babalola is married to Yeye Aare Modupe Babalola. The marriage is blessed with two children who have excelled academically and professionally. They are Bolanle Austen-Peters and Michael Opeyemi Babalola. His net is said to be over $350 million.

OUTSTANDING SERVICE

An advocate par excellence, Aare Afe Babalola has made outstanding contributions to the development of Nigerian Law and Jurisprudence through advocacy in Court. This is evident from the celebrated cases which he has handled and the notable personalities and corporate bodies who constitute his clientele. He has to his credit several legal books, namely, Injunctions and Enforcement of Orders; Law and Practice of Evidence in Nigeria; (Ed.); Enforcement of Judgments; and Election Law and Practice, etc. All of which have contributed immensely to the promotion of legal education and practice in Nigeria. He has also authored over 200 legal and non-legal articles contained in law books and journals some of which works he had delivered as lectures at various events. Aare Afe Babalola is a Lecturer at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, visiting lecturer at the Post-graduate Schools of the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan, as well as the Centre for African Law and Development Studies. He is also the author of “YOU AND THE LAW”, a column published by the Nigerian Tribune Newspaper on Mondays. A Patron of several law student societies, legal institutions and corporate bodies, Aare Afe Babalola has trained over 300 lawyers and produced 14 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (the largest number from any Chambers in the Country), several judges and Attorneys-General. His experience and number of years in uninterrupted legal practice have equipped him with versatility in many areas of law. He is a consultant to several conglomerates, the Federal Government of Nigeria, companies and the World Bank. Aare Afe Babalola is an administrator of repute and is actively involved in both domestic and international arbitration. Aare Afe Babalola owns a huge law library and is strongly devoted to the advancement of law and the legal profession in Nigeria.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN); Doctor of Letters (LL.D); Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), former Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Nigeria; the immediate past Chairman of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, winner of the Best Pro-Chancellor award in 2005 and 2006, winner of Queen Victoria Commemorative Award at Socrates Award of European Business Assembly in Oxford UK; member of the Rector of Europe, October, 2007; Vice President, Rector of Europe, 2010; and Honorary Professor of International University.

Aare Afe Babalola is the Africa Man of the Year on Food Security and has just been conferred with an award  Doctor of Management (Honoris Causa) at the just concluded Convocation Ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Akure.

He holds degrees from several Universities like Ekiti State University for the award of LL.D (hc) in 2002, LL.D of University of London, LL.D of University Lagos, LL.D University of Jos, LL.D of Federal University of Technology, Akure, LL.D, Kogi State University, etc. —The first Africa to be conferred with Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) of the University of London in 2015. —Winner of Queen Victoria Commemorative Award at Socrates Award of European Business Assembly in Oxford UK. He won the African Award in Education 2011, African Man of the Year in Food Security, 2014. He was conferred with the Congressional Commendation of the US Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and inducted into the African Hall of Fame by the Advisory Board of the African Leadership Development Foundation, Inc. USA, and African Leadership (UK) Limited in 2016.

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AARE AFE BABALOLA, THE LESSONS WE LEARNT THROUGH HIM- M.O AKANDE

Emmanuel Afe Babalola began life in poverty and for all his youth and early adulthood lived in poverty. As he recalls, in his days he lived in “an unplastered mud house” and “water was a rare commodity.” He further notes that he did not wear shoes to school. On Sundays he wore the white tennis bought for him by his mother. He adds “on my return from the church I used to clean my tennis shoes, wash them, apply white Nugget, dry them and keep them till the next Sunday.” He could not attend any post-primary education institution school even after he passed the entrance examination to them. For example, he was rejected at the interview level for admission to St Andrew’s College, Oyo, because he was pronounced “too young and inexperienced.” He could also not proceed to Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, the only secondary school in his Ekiti those days, for lack of funds.

The constantly struggling Afe Babalola took to teaching, but again here he faced considerable challenge because teaching was considered an inferior profession to pursue. Under these difficult circumstances, he had decided to enrol for the Senior Cambridge School Certificate examination by private study with the help of tuition courses, which he ordered from the Wolsey Hall, Oxford. He also packed his luggage and left Ado-Ekiti for Ibadan on the morning of January 5, 1948 with the vow never to return to the town until he had passed his own degree examinations.

He later passed the Senior Cambridge School Certificate examination and applied for scholarship to study at the University College, Ibadan. Again he was turned down as the Scholarship Board of Western Nigeria decided to give the only opening for Ekiti Province to a less qualified candidate who was the son of a Party Leader in the Province. Afe Babalola returned to his private study and passed the BSc degree in Economics. In the meantime he had again applied for scholarship to read the Master’s degree course on the completion of his first degree in Economics.

Again his application was rejected, but was offered scholarship to read for the Diploma in Estate Management at Enugu College of Technology after successfully completing his BSc degree examination. He rejected the offer and wrote to the awarding authorities that the award was an insult to his intelligence. Again, he returned to his private study and began to study for his degree examination in Law of the University of London as an external candidate. He passed the examination, travelled for the mandatory stay at an Inn in England and returned to Ibadan to establish his legal practice. He had chosen Ibadan, a provincial capital, and not Lagos where there were more opportunities for the practice of Law in his early days.

Here was a lawyer who just managed to establish his private practice, but who rose to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the highest office that can be reached in the profession of lawyers. The Emmanuel Chambers, which he founded, has trained over a thousand of eminent lawyers, more than twelve of whom became SANs, and four of whom became Attorney Generals and Ministers of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Afe Babalola has also successfully handled many landmark cases many of which could have scared away the cowardly, during the period of his practice. Again, he was always sensitive to the need of the downtrodden. It is not surprising, therefore, that one of the cases that gave him satisfaction was the defence of the Federal government against the legal action instituted against it on the introduction of communication with cell phones. He had responded to the invitation to defend the decision, filed action at the Abuja Federal High Court and his success “paved the way for the exercise which gave birth to the use of the GSM” which in turn has transformed communication in the country, saving many lives on the dangerous roads and the reckless and inconsiderate drivers.

Afe Babalola was appointed Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the University of Lagos, but was removed from that position before the expiration of his tenure by a succeeding Administration, in spite of his being pronounced for two consecutive years as the best Pro-Chancellor in the country. Afe Babalola left UNILAG to found his own University, which unlike most new universities, began its programmes on its own permanent site where an impressive set of buildings were built before the first set of students were recruited. The University employs thousands of people at all cadres of administration and management, including some of the best world-class professors. A former Minister of Information, the indomitable Dora Akunyili, described the University as a manifestation of a huge investment in education. Here then is a man who terminated his formal education only at the primary education level, but who moved on to acquire the School Certificate, and later the Bachelor of Science Education in Economics and the Law degrees as private student. The man who never studied at any university has proceeded to establish one of the best private universities in Africa. Here is also a man who went through real suffering, pain and oppression, but whose smiles remain broader than those who have never known any challenge of hardship want or squalor in their lifetime.

Aare Afe Babalola has given us the secret of his life, and captured his life story in his fascinating autobiography, which he appropriately titled Impossibility made Possible. In the book, he states that his parents taught him the virtues of not giving up on a dream, industry, self-reliance, hard work, contentment and honesty, which became the hall mark for which he and his law firm became known. He was guided by the principle of keeping on and faith that a person can surmount the challenges of life by dedication, commitment and the dogged pursuit of a goal, not allowing circumstances to serve as a distraction. He refuses to be slowed down on his journey in life by the myriad of challenges, including, injustice, nepotism, favouritism and denial of his basic rights and entitlements, trials, frustrations, and set back, choosing to consider theses as inevitable and temporary. In the course of surmounting the obstacles, he avoids any opening in his heart capable of producing bitterness, despair, frustration, depression, resentment, revenge or non forgiveness, which could have made his heart become a potential breeding ground for demonic activity and thus arrest his potentials for breakthrough.

Afe Babalola believes that there is a powerful hand that guides the destiny of a person and after reflecting on how he has overcome all the tribulations of life, declares that he gives glory and honour to Almighty God for making impossibility possible in the course of the perilous journey through life. He calls his wife an Evangelist, appreciating the many hours she spends on her knees lifting the family up to the Almighty God. It is clear that there has been Divine intervention in the fortunes of the hardworking lawyer, economist, seasoned administrator and educational strategist, Afe Babalola. One respected Englishman who is a specialist in the sociology of religion has marvelled that Afe Babalola had not been awarded a Fellowship of one of the constituent Colleges of the University of London, but had received the commendation at the highest level of the University of London that had been founded as far back as 1836. The conservative university professor had declared: “To Almighty God, who is the only author of all good things, be the praise and glory. Amen.” That was a clear admission of Divine favour.

The life of Afe Babalola, like that of the famous refugee Bible character, Joseph, who was betrayed by his brethren who sold him to Egypt, where he rose to become the Prime Minister of Egypt, teaches that no one can stop a person from reaching the highest point mapped out by Destiny. Indeed, all the obstacles on the path of such a person will constitute steps for the advancement to that highest point. All opposition, manipulation and treachery will end up working for the person, by no means against the person, slowly but also steadily preparing the person for the glorious and higher level.

The life of Afe Babalola, therefore, provokes encouragement and generates hope for the feeble and weak minded who is unable to appreciate that the frustrations and despair of life are just avenues for building courage, steadfastness, determination, faith, boldness and fearlessness, attributes that will later become useful for the building of a successful and triumphant life. It is interesting to note that the Scriptures promise a similar glorious ending in the passage contained in the Book of Isaiah, chapter 43 and verse 2: “When you go through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not go over you: when you go through the fire, you will not be burned; and the flame will have no power over you.”

One of the secrets of the life of Afe Babalola is that he stayed focused on his goal of achieving his dream to rid himself of extreme and abject poverty. He denied himself all luxury and invested all his time, talent and treasure to ensure that he got in life what he considered a priority, excellence, recognition and success. He frequently resigned his jobs, forsook the security of the appointments and took the risk to jump from one job to the other and moved from one office to the other. In the process, Afe Babalola moved on to a higher height of achievement and performance.

Another secret is that Afe Babalola refuses to allow the memory of his past to negatively influence his choice of what to do. Thus, Afe Babalola gives generously as if remembering what he suffered as a poor man. Here, then, was a man who could not enter the walls of the university to study, awarding scholarships worth N28.5 million to his students during the 2013 Founder’s Day celebration of his University. Each of the eleven most outstanding students of his University also received five hundred thousand naira with which to pursue their studies. Afe Babalola has not allowed his bitter experience as he grew up in poverty and neglect to influence his choice to become a major philanthropist, caring for others.

Aare Afe Babalola is always quick to seize the opportunity provided for progress and advancement. This was why he was able to explore the factor of colonial rule, which guaranteed security, peace and opened avenues for personal development and upward for those who worked hard. Afe Babalola had no godfather, no well-placed person to turn to for assistance. His only choice was to decide to excel by self-discipline, industry and commitment to a worthy purpose. He joined the institutions and individuals who benefited from the role that has been played by the University of London in the course of the development of higher education in Africa. For in addition to grooming many of the younger universities from the status of University College to autonomous universities, the University of London has offered to Nigerian students opportunities for the acquisition of the degrees of the university. Among those who have received the doctorate degrees of the University of London are Kenneth Dike, founding Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Tekena Tamuno and A.B.O. Oyediran, former Vice-Chancellors of the University of Ibadan; Saburi Biobaku and J F.Ade Ajayi, former Vice Chancellors of the University of Lagos, Emmanuel Ayandele, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar and a host of other professionals all over the country. There have also been products of the University who benefitted from the provision for external students.

And now the University of London has extended its recognition of distinction to Nigeria at the highest level of educational attainment by the award of the honorary degree of the Doctor of Law to an icon of the legal profession, Aare Afe Babalola. The award makes Afe Babalola belong to the elite class of honorary recipients of the degree of the University of London, having been preceded by only two Africans in the history of the University: the former South African President and illustrious civil rights ambassador, Nelson Mandela, and the fearless and courageous South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu. It is true that Afe Babalola has already received many honours, distinctions, awards and Fellowships all over the world, including eleven honorary degrees of universities. The latest award from London makes Aare Afe Babalola a real legend: a symbol of victory over all forces that hinder growth, a real demonstration of the point that one can make it to the very top by perseverance, and without the initial advantage of rich parents, powerful contact and connections, and even against all odds, the limitation of wealth and the disadvantage of place of birth or ethnic origins. The award also offers the recognition for the investment in neighbours and the wider society of kindness, sensitivity, and passion for the pursuit of excellence. Aare Afe Babalola thus leaves a legacy of the accomplishment of a “mission impossible” of which the entire world must remain proud.

AKINWUMI AMBODE BIO, LIFESTYLE AND CAREER.

Akinwunmi Ambode (born June 14, 1963) was the former Governor of Lagos State. He was a civil servant for 27 years and a financial consultant before running for public office as Governor of Lagos State in 2015. Ambode ran for office of the Governor of Lagos State in April 2015 as a member of the All Progressives Congress, the state's ruling party. He won the election, just defeating the second-place candidate Jimi Agbaje of the People Democratic Party by 150,000 votes. He began his tenure as the governor of Lagos on 29 May, 2015, succeeding former governor Babatunde Fashola. Ain Ambode lost in gubernatorial primary election to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, denying him an opportunity to run for second term. He eventually supported Sanwoolu campaign that brought about smooth transition in the state.

EARLY LIFE

Akinwunmi Ambode was born on 14 June 1963 in Epe, Lagos, into the family of Festus Akinwale Ambode and Christianah Oluleye Ambode. Akinwunmi Ambode is one of ten children of his father Festus Ambode.

EDUCATION

Akinwunmi Ambode attended St. Jude's Primary School, Ebutte Meta, Lagos, from 1969-1974, where he sat for the National Common Entrance Examinations.

From 1974-81, Ambode, attended Federal Government College, Warri, Delta State. From 1981-1984, he attended University of Lagos where he studied Accounting, graduating at the age of 21.

He also has a master's degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos, and he qualified as a Chartered Accountant.

Ambode was awarded the Fulbright Program scholarship for the Hubert Humphries Fellowship Programme in Boston, Massachusetts. He also attended the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania for Advanced Management Programme. Other institutions he attended for courses and programmes include Cranfield School of Management, Cranfield, England, the Institute of Management Development, Lausanne, Switzerland, INSEAD, Singapore. Moreover, he attended the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, Cambridge, USA.

CIVIL SERVICE CAREER

From 1988-91, Akinwunmi Ambode was the Assistant Treasurer, Badagry Local Government, Lagos State, Nigeria. In 1991, he was posted to Somolu Local Government, Lagos State, as an Auditor. He has also held the position of Council Treasurer in Shomolu Local Government in later years.

He also previously served as Council Treasurer at Alimosho Local Government, Lagos State. In 2001, he became acting Auditor General for Local Government, Lagos State, Nigeria. This position was confirmed by the State House of Assembly. In January 2005, Ambode was appointed the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance.

From 2006- 2012, Ambode was the accountant general for Lagos State, in charge of all the financial activities of the state and directly responsible for over 1400 accountants in the state service. Under his watch, the State Treasury Office (STO) revolutionized the way Lagos State finances were raised, budgeted, managed and planned. In his six years as the Lagos State accountant general, the state's financial performance improved visibly with the budget performing at a remarkable average of 85% annually.

CONSULTING CAREER

After 27 years in the civil service, Ambode voluntarily retired in August 2012. He founded Brandsmiths Consulting Limited to provide Public Finance and Management Consulting services to government at all levels, its parastatals and agencies.

MEMBERSHIPS

Ambode is an active member of the Federal Government College Lagos, Warri Old Students Association (FEGOCOWOSA) and is credited with revitalizing the Lagos branch of the Association. Ambode was a two-time chairman of the Lagos State Branch, and, until recently, was the National President of the Association, a position he held for three years. In those three years, he executed key projects in the school in conjunction with the alumni network to improve the educational and living standards of the students.

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

In 2013, he founded the non-profit La Roche Leadership Foundation. Its recent goal is to install Nigerian and Lagos State flags in all government owned schools in Lagos State.

PERSONAL LIFE

In 1991, Ambode married Bolanle Patience (née Odukomaiya) Ambode. They have twins, a boy and a girl. Ambode is a Christian.

THE EFFECT OF VISIONSCAPE IN LAGOS

Lagos state generates over 78 million tons of waste between 2007 and 2013 with collection rate of 28% . The gap in the rate of refuse collection in the state exposes the state to environmental epidemics. On 1 March 2017, the governor Ambode's administration introduces Visionscape a private foreign-owned waste management company to take charge of the activities of waste management in Lagos state. [12] The governor's action was criticized for his decision to dump Lagos State Waste Management Authority ( LAWMA) the state-owned agency created for the management of waste disposal . According to Leadership “More than 10 months after commencing work with colourful vehicles and waste bins, Visionscape has failed to deliver. After its shaky start which made its promoters to hastily broker a deal to partially recall the PSP Operators, no tangible progress has been recorded in the waste management department.” in the same vein. The speaker of the state house of assembly, Hon.Mudashiru Obasa also said “We are seriously working on it and the PSP will soon return. Visionscape remains unknown in Lagos State, it is a ghost in the state and we are not going to embrace it,” said Obasa. The political bent to the issue would later come to the fore weeks.

FRAUD ALLEGATION

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC) had secured a court mandate to freeze three accounts traced to the former governor of Lagos state. According to Punch " EFCC Secures Freezing Order on Accounts Linked to Ex-Gov. Ambode over Alleged N9.9bn Fraud’, said Justice Chuka Obiozor of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday ordered the freezing of the sum of N9.9bn belonging to the Lagos State Government. The funds are domiciled variously in First City Monument Bank account number 5617984012; Access Bank account number 0060949275; and Zenith Bank account number 1011691254, respectively".

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ABBA KYARI, Bio and lifestyle

Abba Kyari obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Warwick, England, in 1980. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Law from the University of Cambridge, England and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1983. In 1984, he obtained a Masters’ Degree in Law from his alma-mater, the University of Cambridge. 

Between 1988 and 1990, he was Editor with the New Africa Holdings Limited Kaduna, (publishers of Democrat Newspapers). He served with the Borno State Executive Council as Commissioner for Forestry and Animal Resources in 1990 and was Secretary to the Board of African International Bank Limited, between 1990 and 1995.

He attended the International Institute for Management Development at Lausanne, Switzerland, and participated in the Program for Management Development at the Harvard Business School, in 1992 and 1994 respectively.

Abba Kyari was Executive Director, Management Services, United Bank for Africa Plc. (UBA) and later the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Bank. He was appointed a Director of Unilever Nigeria Plc. in 2002.

He served as Honorary Member of the Presidential Advisory Council on Investment in Nigeria between 2000 and 2005. He is a recipient of the Nigerian Honor Award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (O.O.N).

THE MAN CALLED ATTAHIRU JEGA. - M.O Akande

EARLY LIFE

Jega was born on 11 January 1957 in Jega, Kebbi State. He attended Sabon Gari Town Primary School, Jega between 1963 and 1969 and proceeded to Government Secondary School, Birnin Kebbi and then was admitted into The Ahmadu Bello University Zaria's Bayero University College, Kano in 1974, graduating in 1979 with a Second Class Upper Division BSc degree in Political Science.

CAREER

He worked as a teaching assistant at Bayero University, then won a fellowship at Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois in the United States (1981–1984) where he earned a PhD in Political Sciences. He returned to the Political Science Department in Bayero University in 1984 as a lecturer. Other appointments included visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos (March 1992 – March 1993), visiting Research Fellow, Department of Political Science, University of Stockholm, Sweden (1994), Deputy Vice-chancellor (Academic), Bayero University (1995–1996) and director, Centre for Democratic Research and Training, Bayero University (2000–2004). Jega was appointed Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University in 2005. He is currently a member of the International Elections Advisory Council.

POLITICAL ACTIVITY

Jega is a former President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and was an opponent of the Babangida military government in the early 1990s. Politically leaning towards the left, as ASUU President he was closely associated with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and continued that connection throughout his career. On 29 April 2010 he was guest lecturer for the NLC May Day celebration where he presented a paper on 50 Years of Nationhood: Challenges of Good Democratic Governance, Credible Election and the Working Class. He is widely seen as an astute intellectual with a strong sense of ethics and morality.

Jega was appointed a member of the Justice Mohammed Uwais Electoral Reform Committee, which submitted a report on 11 December 2008 with recommendations that included establishing commissions to deal with Electoral Offences, Constituency Delimitation and Political Parties Registration and Regulation. The committee also recommended proportional representation and that the INEC head should be appointed by the judiciary rather than the President.

On the 28 of March 2015, under his leadership, elections were conducted in what Nigerians and the World see as free, fair and credible which declared the APC Presidential candidate General Muhammadu Buhari as winner defeating the Incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

INEC NOMINATION

Jega's nomination as INEC chairman followed approval by a meeting of the National Council of State called by President Jonathan and attended by former heads of state Yakubu Gowon, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, Abdulsalami Abubakar, Ernest Shonekan, Olusegun Obasanjo and Shehu Shagari. The Senate President David Mark, Speaker of the House of Representatives Oladimeji Bankole, and most of the state Governors also attended the meeting. Unanimous approval by the council of the nominee for this critical appointment avoided controversy about whether or not the President should appoint the chairman of the INEC. Reactions to the announcement from a broad spectrum of political leaders and organisations were positive, although some voiced concern that it could be too late to implement real reforms before the 2011 elections.

During the campaigning for the 2015 Nigerian general election, Attiru Jega "faced fierce criticism from both the opposition and the ruling party." Nonetheless, a 23 March 2015 article in Vanguard asserted that "most experts believe Jega will seek to declare an accurate result as quickly as possible, regardless of any political interference he may face."

ACTION ✌

PATRICIA ETTEH BIO, LIFESTYLE AND NET WORTH

PERSONAL LIFE AND EDUCATION

Etteh, a Yoruba, was born on 17 August 1953. She trained as a hairdresser and beauty therapist, but she also earned a law degree from University of Abuja.

POLITICAL CAREER

Etteh represents the Ayedaade/Isokan/Irewole constituency in Osun State She was initially elected in 1999 as an Alliance for Democracy (AD) member, but switched to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) when running for re-election in 2003. She was elected to the position of speaker unanimously in June 2007, and is the only woman to have held this position in the Nigerian government.

CORRUPTION SCANDAL

In September 2007, she faced a committee of MPs over accusations that she had authorised the spending of 628 million Naira (about US $5 million ) on renovations of her official residence and that of her deputy, and the purchase of 12 official cars meant for the House of Representatives. Accusations of theft were chanted at her as she tried to speak in the House, and she was escorted out by security as the situation degenerated into a commotion, though she has not been officially indicted.

The PDP officially continued to back Etteh, although some members, such as Isyaku Ibrahim, criticised this stance. Author and academic Wole Soyinka was among those who called for her resignation, while former President and PDP member Olusegun Obasanjo continued to support her.

On 30 October, following weeks of pressure, Etteh resigned her position as speaker . Her deputy, Babangida Nguroje, also resigned. However at the last seating of the 6th session House of Representatives, it was agreed that “There is no record or proceedings of the House where Patricia Olubunmi Etteh was ever indicted”.

ACTION ✌

DIMEJI BANKOLE, BIO, LIFESTYLE AND NET WORTH

Sabur Oladimeji "Dimeji" Bankole (born 14 November 1969) is a Nigerian politician and 9th Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria. Elected at the age of 37, Bankole is the youngest Speaker in the history of the House.

EARLY LIFE, EDUCATION AND CAREER

The son of Abeokuta chief, Alani Bankole, he was a businessman before being elected to the House. A Muslim Egba, Bankole was born in Abeokuta in what is now Ogun State on 14 November 1969. His parents are Alani Bankole, a businessman, former National Vice-Chairman of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and Seriki Jagunmolu of Egbaland, and his wife, Atinuke Bankole, Ekerin Iyalode of Egbaland.

Newspaper Thisday identifies Bankole's education as such: Baptist Boys High School, Abeokuta starting 1979; Albany College, London, England, starting 1985; University of Reading, Reading, England, starting 1989; University of Oxford's Officer Training College, Oxford, England, in 1991; and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, US, in 2005.

Bankole obtained a Master of Public Administration degree from John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA in 2005. . In 2014, he became a Mason Fellow in Public Policy and Management at John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, USA.

Bankole states he never went to Sandhurst military academy but only took courses for military officers at Oxford University where he was in the Artillery Corps.

Bankole is a polo player, and is a member of the Lagos Polo Club, where his position is defence. He also enjoys football.

Bankole was the Director of Freight Agencies Nigeria Limited from 1995 until 1998, Executive Director of Operations of West African Aluminium Products Limited from 1998 until 2004, and Director of ASAP Limited from 2000 until 2003. He is also an economist.

House of Representatives of Nigeria

In 2002, Bankole was elected to the House of Representatives on the People's Democratic Party (PDP) ticket to represent the Abeokuta South Federal Constituency of Ogun State. He was Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Finance while Aminu Bello Masari was Speaker, (Farouk Lawan was Chairman of the committee) and was also previously Chairman of the House Committee on Land Transport. Other committees he has sat on are the panels on Defence, Internal Affairs and Banking, and Currency.

Bankole was re-elected in April 2007. He considers his legislative interests to be those related to defence and finance.

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

In September 2007, a committee questioned Speaker Patricia Etteh about her spending of ₦628 million ($4.8m) on home renovation and automobiles. She denied wrongdoing, but many representatives were unhappy with her attempts to defend herself, blows were traded on the floor of the House, and Etteh had to be escorted from the chamber. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and many top PDP members continued to back her, but a large segment of the party, led by Lawan and including Bankole, called for her resignation. It was reported that Bankole, among multiple other contenders, hoped to succeed her as early as 5 October 2007.

After Etteh's resignation from the post on 30 October (along with her deputy, who was also caught up in the scandal), Integrity Group (anti-Etteh) member Terngu Tsegba became interim speaker.

NOMINATION

On 1 November, he was elected to succeed Etteh. The election began at 10.30am. The House was short of the statutory 360 members because three (Moses Segun Oladimeji, Joe Anota and Aminu Shuaibu Safana) died. Two constituencies were yet to elect their representatives. 328 of the 355 members voted. Samson Osagie of Edo State nominated Bankole for the post of Speaker, and Lynda Ikpeazu of Anambra State seconded the proposal. His challenger was Osun State Representative George Jolaoye, whom he beat by 304 votes to 20 (and 4 abstentions). Etteh was among those who voted against Bankole. The new deputy speaker was Usman Bayero Nafada. Bankole was declared speaker at 1.30pm.

In his acceptance speech, entitled "We Stand Upon The Threshold of History", Bankole said "I am taking over the mantle of leadership at a very difficult time. But these are hard times, we need to build confidence again and assure the populace that we are still their representatives. I want an independent house that Nigerians will be proud of, this is my first task."

TENURE

One week after his election, political opponents claimed that Bankole had not completed his National Youth Service Corps (N.Y.S.C) service, which is mandatory for all Nigerian university graduates under thirty years of age when they graduate, and called for his resignation over the issue. Bankole provided his N.Y.S.C discharge certificate, ending the rumour. On 22 June 2010 Bankole suspended 11 members of parliament indefinitely for disorderliness and fighting in the house.

RETURN OF UNSPENT FUNDS BY GOVERNMENT MINISTRIES

During his tenure, the House of Representatives as a result of performance of its oversight function ensured that Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA's) returned unspent budgeted funds amounting to about 450 billion naira to the government treasury in 2007 while about 350 billion naira was again recovered in 2008. In total, the House of Representatives ensured the return of about 1 trillion naira unspent funds by MDA's as part of the annual budgetary process under Bankole's speakership. These were unprecedented in the history of oversight in Nigeria’s legislature. Up until then, MDA's did not return unspent funds. Also, the House of Representatives discovered that about 5 trillion naira generated revenue were never remitted by MDA's for the past 5 years before investigation.

Termination of Inflated Abuja Runway Contract

Under Bankole, the 64 billion naira contract for the second runway for the Nnamdi Azikwe Airport in Abuja was investigated and found to be grossly inflated. The contract was thus terminated by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

BILLS

Under him, the House of Representatives accepted 328 motions, approved 282 resolutions and passed 136 bills. These bills include the Freedom of Information(FOI) Act and Fiscal Responsibility Act which ensured that all revenue-generating agencies of government present their budgets for scrutiny every year. The agencies, which include the CBN, NNPC and Customs spent trillions of naira yearly without appropriation by the National Assembly.

TRIAL

In 2011, Bankole was tried by Nigeria's anti-corruption agency and was cleared of all charges.

The trail involved an allegation that Mr Bankole secured a 10bn naira ($65m; £40m) loan, which was then shared out among senior figures in parliament as a pay rise in a country where more than 60% of the population live below the poverty. Mr Bankole has acknowledged that the loan exists but says he did not gain personally.

The judge although clearing Mr Bankole stated the salary increase was "immoral, wrong and condemnable" but no crime was committed even though a debt was being undertaken at the repayment expense of a poor nation for the benefit of a few. No law at that time existed against such actions to selfishly benefit the lawmakers, so no crime was technically committed.

ACTION ✌

RAUF AREGBESOLA, THE MAN WHO HAVE GREATNESS TRUST UPON HIM. - M.O AKANDE

EARLY LIFE

Engr. Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola was born in the month of May, 1957. He had his primary and secondary education in Ondo State, and later attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he studied Mechanical Engineering and graduated in 1980. As a pupil in the primary school, Rauf was a centre-point around whom his mates hovered for guidance and direction. As a student, he was focused for remarkable performance which he made distinctively and seamlessly. In the Polytechnic, he positioned himself to conquer his environment by engaging in prolific studies.

EDUCATION

Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola had his primary and secondary education in Ondo State, and later attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where he studied Mechanical Engineering and graduated in 1980. As a pupil in the primary school, Rauf was a centre-point around whom his mates hovered for guidance and direction. As a student, he was focused for remarkable performance which he made distinctively and seamlessly. In the Polytechnic, he positioned himself to conquer his environment by engaging in prolific studies.

About Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola career

Member of the Administration of the Institute of Nigeria (FNIM), member of the Society of Engineers of Nigeria (FNSE), member of the Association of Technological Engineers of Nigeria (FNATE) and member of the Certified Marketing Communications Institute of Nigeria (FCMCIN), Rauf Aregbesola has a great deal of experience gained from extensive exposure in the private sector, such as Nigeria’s external telecommunications, now renamed Nigerian Telecommunications Ltd. and Lagos Airport Hotel, before founding its engineering services company, Aurora Nigeria Limited, in 1986. The company had managed several important projects for governmental and private organizations in most of the Federation states.

POLITICAL CAREER

Politically, Rauf was no less a phenomenon. His participation in politics dates back to his graduation years when he was President of the Student Parliament (1977/78), Polytechnic, Ibadan and President of the Black Nationalist Movement (1978-1980). He was also an active supporter of the movements of other progressive students throughout the country, which earned him, for example, the lifetime membership of the National Association of Technology Students. In June 1990, he became a delegate elected to the inaugural Congress of the SDP local government area. In July of that year, he was also delegate to his first National Convention in Abuja.

Rauf Aregbesola, as a pro-democracy activist and human rights activist, was one of the main participants in the struggles of demilitarization and prodemocracy of the 1990s. Prior to his appointment as state commissioner for works and infrastructure in Lagos (1999-2007), he was director of the Ahmed Tinubu Ball Campaign Organization (BATCO), which designed the election victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as state governor of Lagos in 1999. Performed a similar venture using the Independent Campaign Group (ICP) platform to ensure Asiwaju’s re-election for a second term.

THE COMMISSIONER

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola was excellently acquitted as commissioner for works and infrastructure in the state of Lagos between 1999 and 2007 with the strength of his commitment to selfless service. His diligence, sincerity and indefatigability in the administration of the vast Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, as well as the supervision of the Public Works Corporation and the State Board of Electricity, have been recognized as responsible for the exceptional success registered by the Tinubu administration, in particular in the rehabilitation / maintenance of roads and street lighting; and the result that laid the foundation for the Lagos update as a model of development and good governance supported today by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. Indeed, it is known that it is one of the brains behind the redesign of the infrastructure that led to the transformation of social services in the state of Lagos.

Some of the results and innovative innovations due to the visionary qualities and to the society of Aregbesola include the redefinition and the application of new aesthetic standards to the ministerial blocks and to the offices as corporate workplaces; definition of vision and mission, annual retreats of personnel and modern training for the development of personnel skills; introduction of facilities management practices; pioneering results in public relations operations (ministerial newspaper) and IT (website); Pioneer society of public / private sector associations; Awarded good practice projects; etc

The believer and advocate of the rule of law

Aregbesola’s conviction in the sanctity of the rule of law is exemplary.

Engr. Rauf Aregbesola, on the platform of the then Congress of Action (AC) competed for the governorship of the state of Osun in the elections of April 2007, and won. However, to declare it, it took about four years of what must be one of the most titanic battles of legal recovery of all time, and a time for the manifestation of the omnipotence of Almighty God and his firmness in support of those who they trust him.

After going to court, an appeals court and a new trial, the second appellate court, which issued a sentence on October 26, 2010, declared the governor of Aregbesola and ordered him to take an oath the following day.

Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, since taking the position of Governor of the State of Osun on October 27, 2010, has redefined the meaning of governance in the public sector, not only with a symbolic position, but with real and sustainable interventions that will currently improve the quality of the life of all those who live or work in the state of Osun. The change of the state mark as the ipinle Omoluabi (State of the Virtuosi) began by itself, adopting the title of Ogbeni, simply Lord, in reference to the singular Excellency of the Almighty God. In little more than a year, the chronicle of his successes is surprising and can be summed up as an “O-Model” chain, the most surprising was the participation of 20,000 young people in Osun’s youth empowerment program in their first 100 days in office; An unprecedented result that has become the model for others.

THE STRATEGIST/VISIONARY

Rauf is a born strategist. For life, whether as a student, student or career man; appointed politician or governor, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola applied the art and science of strategy to ensure success in all the efforts in which he is involved. He developed strategies and was exceptional as a student. He developed strategies and was efficient and effective as a career man. He developed a strategy and was reached as a basic politician. He developed strategies and was excellent as a commissioner in the state of Lagos. He devised a strategy to claim his mandate when he was armed in the race to offer selfless service to the good people of Osun. He developed a strategy to establish a solid foundation for a regenerated Osun state, knowing that sustainable development does not come about with “quick fix” methods, tools and techniques. He is developing strategies to position Osun and the good people of the state appropriately in Nigeria’s geo-economic environment. He is a fervent believer in saying that strategists do not fail and, therefore, the people of Osun will not fail.

Engaged in a better and egalitarian society, Aregbesola, although anxious to build a society with enormous physical infrastructures that promote a better life, believes in the first search for those human values ​​that can pave the way for the birth of that total man, who is socially responsible Hence his obstinate search for extracurricular programs, such as Calisthenics, Omoluabi Boys and Girls Club, and other plans aimed at redirecting young people to channel their energies towards a society in which the promotion of common and collective goods will dominate. the crazy search for the good self.

It often shakes hornet nests; But these are in their determined attempts to break the rules to achieve extraordinary results. To date, it has sparked debates on federalism, the restructuring of education towards functionality, equity, justice and equity in all areas of life. Even in the face of growing criticism, he clings stubbornly to his ideas, convinced that the oppositions to them are the product of long years of military rule, ignorance of what is even good for humanity and the acute capacity for manipulation of those whose interest is to keep ordinary people perpetually subjugated.

PERSONAL LIFE

An exemplary family man, Rauf Aregbesola is a loving husband and a loving father. Married to Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola, he fed his family with equal devotion and commitment.

For these reasons, he is a thinker, an ardent artist, a visionary leader, a transformative leader, an agent of strategic change, a man for the people; Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, governor of the state of Osun.

NET WORTH

Putting all his assets and endorsement deals into consideration, Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola has an estimated net worth of $12 million US Dollar, according to several sources,

Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola Net Worth in naira

Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola net worth in naira is Calculated to be #14,320,000,000.00 million naira with the conversion rate of #360 per dollar ($12 million * 360 = 4,320,000,000.00)

HOUSE AND CARS

CONTROVERSIES

Aregbesola vows to heavily tax rich Nigerians as Buhari’s minister

The former governor of the state of Osun, Rauf Aregbesola, has promised to be the pioneer of a heavy tax system on the rich Nigerians when he is inaugurated as a minister.

Aregbesola appeared before the Senate on Monday, 29 July 2019 to be selected as one of the ministerial candidates of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Senator Theodore Orji (Central Abia – PDP) has expressed concern about how more taxes from different agencies, at all three levels of government, affect the ease of doing business in the country. The legislator asked Aregbesola what it would do to encourage investment when it was inaugurated at the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

In response, Aregbesola said that Nigeria has neglected to force the rich of the country to fulfill their responsibilities towards the nation, in particular as regards taxes.

He said he would be in favor of a fair tax system that overcomes inequality in the country.

He said: “I will be a pioneer of privileged taxes for those who have enormous resources or wealth that Nigerians should take advantage of.

“I will recommend serious taxes for the rich in Nigeria.

“If that now translates into a burden on the state and the local government to reduce their inclination for taxes that make the poor continue to contribute with their inadequate resources, I would be satisfied.”

Aregbesola, who was governor of Osun between 2010 and 2018, also explained to the Senate why his administration had a controversial salary payment system for officials.

He said the state was severely affected by economic difficulties because of its huge infrastructure investments which, according to him, had been neglected for years before his time.

While addressing the press outside the Senate chamber after the screening, Aregbesola promised to do everything possible to serve the majority of Nigeria’s population.

Rauf Aregbesola, a former governor of the state of Osun and now a ministerial candidate for President Muhammadu Buhari, denied allegations that he did not pay workers during his eight years as governor.

Aregbesola pointed out that the allegations of not paying workers during his term as governor were due to malice and ignorance.

He made the clarifications during his confirmation hearing at the Senate on Monday.

According to Aregbesola: “The salary claims due to Osun during my mandate were due to malice and ignorance.

“By 2014, our nation was in distress, and virtually all states had difficulty with salaries.

“We came up with an approach that there is no month that any public official did not have salary every month.”

The Senate had on Tuesday last week commenced the screening of the ministerial nominees Buhari sent to them for confirmation among whom was Aregbesola.

The nominees include: Chris Ngige, Babatunde Fashola, Hadi Sirika, Rotimi Amaechi, Adamu Adamu, Mohammed Adamu, and Lai Mohammed.

Others in the list are: Uche Ogah, Emeka Nwajuiba, Sadiya Farouk, Musa Bello, Godswill Akpabio, Sharon Ikeazor, Ogbonnaya Onu, Akpa Udo, and Adebayo (Ekiti), Timipre Sylva, Adamu Adamu, Shewuye (Borno), Isa Pantami, Gbemi Saraki, Ramatu Tijani, Clement Abam.

Also listed as among the nominees are: Paullen Tallen, Abubakar Aliyu, Sale Mamman, Abubakar Malami, Muhammed Mamood, Mustapha Buba Jedi Agba, Olamilekan Adegbite, and Mohammed Dangyadi.

Lest I forget Mr President, Engr. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola will not disappoint

He is an impeccable man of immutable openness, he is courteous and ethical, he has no pretext in any way, nor does he pretend to be ignored on any subject, a cultured, identifiable and accessible personality.

Former student of the prestigious Polytechnic University of Ibadan, one of the leading institutions of higher education in the country, where he specialized in mechanical engineering and graduated with great success.

He was one of the brightest members of the cabinet during his tenure as commissioner for works in the state of Lagos. The legacy of his administration remains the point of reference, in which the subsequent commissioners of works in the state of Lagos are inspired by an indelible proportion.

Later he enters his mandate as Governor of the State of Osun, where his incredible vision and passion for a greater State of Osun remains stronger every day.

His success rate recognized in the state of Osun says a lot. So let me be consistent. In terms of education, it was reasonably possible to state that education is classified as a flagship along with other factors, which anchored its administration to a successful note during its tenure as Governor of the State.

The enormous infrastructure development approach of its administration during its mandate and the deliberate attempt to expand the space of state schools at all levels, have prompted an unprecedented enrollment of school-aged citizens to register in the various schools of choice.

The pioneering impulse of his administration’s school feeding program, in all schools, the intervention truly deserves praise, as it was the first of its kind in the country and has become an instant milestone of hope for many.

The training of more qualified school teachers to manage the large expected influx of new students entering the school is worthy of praise, testifies to the solid calculation metrics of their administration that have encouraged and supervised the peaceful connection of all categories of schools of different religious religions. for the first time in the state of Osun.

The introduction of the concept of e-learning tablets (OPON IMO), was really a penetrating strategy from your administration during your mandate, it was a courageous attempt to simplify the learning process and also, for a more rapid articulation of basic learning subjects and, above all, was to facilitate the intellectual development of students in the last year of high school in the state.

The success of its introduction remains very encouraging. He introduced free uniforms for students of all public schools in the state. The creation of the school garment manufacturer also employed a considerable number of workers in the state.

He established a strong cadet force, known as the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) during his tenure, and they remained so diligently focused and a great source of pride.

It was created to help stop the high number of youth unemployment in the state. The agricultural sector of the state received a boost. During his tenure, roads were built inside, where most of the farmers grew their agricultural produce.

The construction of several roads by his administration has contributed to the transport of agricultural products, from farms to final consumers.

The massive initiative of building motorways and bridges in the state received a great recommendation from the good people of the state of Osun. In the state of Osun, under Engr. Rauf Olasoji Aregbesola, during his tenure as governor, I do not remember in the recent past any government that has filled me with so many positive aspects, in terms of development results from the state and its citizens. Engr. Ogbeni Olasoji Aregbesola, political odyssey, tribulations, successes, etc., remains uplifting. Under the circumstances,

Mr President, I hereby certify that Engr. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former immediate governor of the state of Osun, is very concentrated and cerebral. An incredible workaholic phenomenon will undoubtedly be a formidable resource if you gently approve his appointment in his esteemed cabinet in his second term as our beloved President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. You will certainly not disappoint His Excellency. I deeply appreciate your time and attention.

ACTION ✌

HERE IS THE NUMBERS OF ALL THE SENATORS IN NIGERIA. LOCATE YOUR SENATOR NOW.

ABIA

Sen. E. Abaribe

08033129452 | enyiabaribe@yahoo.com

Sen. O. Kalu

08034000001 | okalu@orjikalu.com

Sen. T. Orji

07082800000 | senatortaorji@gmail.com

ADAMAWA

Sen. B. Yaroe

08034050460 | bdyaroe@gmail.com

Sen. I. Abbo

08066285112 | faradugun@gmail.com

Sen. A. Ahmed

aishatu.ahmed@nass.gov.ng

AKWA IBOM

Sen. B. Akpan

08055555188 | akpanalbert@hotmail.com

Sen. A. Eyakenyi

08035054282 | konssie@yahoo.com

Sen. C. Ekpeyong

08027785234 | chrisekpesg@yahoo.com

ANAMBRA

Sen. I. Ubah

09096655596 | senatorifeanyiubah@gmail.com

Sen. E. Uche

08037620002 | u.ekwunife@yahoo.com

Sen. A. Oduah

08055084340 | senatorstella@gmail.com

Sen. H. Jika

08038666690 | jikahalliru@gmail.com

Sen. A. Bulkachuwa

adamu.bulkachuwa@nass.gov.ng

Sen. L. Gamau

lawal.gumau@nass.gov.ng

BAYELSA

Sen. O. EWHRUDJAKPO

09031352791 | ogagadick@gmail.com

Sen. D. Diri

08036668698 | douyediri@gmail.com

Sen. D. Wangagra

degi.wangagha@nass.gov.ng

BENUE

Sen. E. Orker-Jev

emmanuel.orkerjev@nass.gov.ng

Sen A. Morro

08068870606 | abahmoro@yahoo.com

EBONYI

Sen. S. Egwu

08039665848 | drsamominyiegwu@gmail.com

Sen. J. Ogba

08037791346 | onwaigboasa@yahoo.com

Sen. M. Nnachi

08034528595 | michaelamannachi@gmail.com

BORNO

Sen. A. Kyari

abubakar.kyari@nass.gov.ng

Sen. K. Shettima

08034459047 | kashimshettima@gmail.com

Sen. M. Ndume

08109480004 | mohammed.ndume@nass.gov.ng

CROSS RIVER

Sen. R. Oko

rose.oko@nass.gov.ng

Sen. G. Bassey

08034444555 | gershombassey@gmail.com

Sen. S. Onor

08030998460 | irunandu@yahoo.com

DELTA

Sen. O. Omo-Agege

07033399937 | senator.ovieomoagege@gmail.com

Sen. J. Manager

08143103829 | jamesmanager2013@gmail.com

Sen. P. Nwaoboshi

08037200999 | pnwaoboshi@yahoo.com

EDO

Sen. C. Ordia

08038403877 | engineercliffordordia@gmail.com

Sen. F. Alimikhena

08155555884 | falimikhena@yahoo.com

Sen. M. Urhoghide

08033855557 | matthewurhoghide@yahoo.com

EKITI

Sen. A. Adeyeye

08023051100 | dadeyeye34@gmail.com

Sen. O. Adetumbi

08064487689 | senator.adetunmbi@gmail.com

Sen. M. Bamidele

080911112 | amicusng@gmail.com

ENUGU

Sen. C. Nnamani

08022255522 | ebeanoglobal875@gmail.com

Sen. Ikweremadu

08075757000 | ikeekweremadu@yahoo.com

Sen. C. Utazi

chukwuka.utazi@nass.gov.ng

GOMBE

Sen. A. Kilawangs

amos.kilawangs@nass.gov.ng

Sen. D. Mohammed

07068686699 | mdgoje1@gmail.com

Sen. S. Alkali

08026032222 | saidualkali905@gmail.com

IMO

Sen. E. Onyewuchi

08032012132 | ezeonyewuchi@gmail.com

Sen. R. Okorocha

rochas.okorocha@nass.gov.ng

Sen. B. Uwajumogu

benjamin.uwajumogu@nass.gov.ng

JIGAWA

Sen. D. Sankara

08037032577 | dsankara@yahoo.co.uk

Sen. S. Mohammed

08022902648 | nakudu@yahoo.com

Sen. I. Hadejia

ibrahim.hadejia@nass.gov.ng

KADUNA

Sen. S. Kwari

08033019005 | suleimankwari@yahoo.com

Sen. D. La'ah

08118887772 | laah.danjuma@yahoo.com

KANO

Sen. K. Gaya

kabiru.gaya@nass.gov.ng

Sen. I. Jibrin

ibrahim.jibrin@nass.gov.ng

Sen. I. Shekarau

08099199111 | ishekarau55@yahoo.com

KATSINA

Sen. A. Babba-Kaita

ahmad.babba@nass.gov.ng

Sen. B. Mandiya

bellom2001@yahoo.com

Sen. K. Barkiya

08138360742 | barkamazadu00@yahoo.com

KEBBI

Sen. M. Aliero

07066847000 | senatoraliero@yahoo.com

Sen. Y. Abdullahi

yahaya.abdullahi@nass.gov.ng

Sen. B. Na'Allah

bala.naallah@nass.gov.ng

KWARA

Sen. A. Yisa

07055221111 | ylashiru@gmail.com

Sen. S. Umar

sadiq.umar@nass.gov.ng

Sen. I. 'Olorigbigbe'

08033581695 | oloridoc@yahoo.com

LAGOS

Sen. Oluremi Tinubu

08095300251 | info@oluremitinubu.com

Sen. S. Osinowo

08033049369 | bayoosinowo@gmail.com

Sen. S. Adeola

08074000040 | adeolaolamilekan2005@yahoo.com

NASARAWA

Sen. A. Adamu

abdullahi.adamu@nass.gov.ng

Sen. G. Awkashiki

08099321703 | godiyaakwashiki123@gmail.com

Sen. U. Almakura

08077253989 | tankoalmakura@yahoo.co.uk

KOGI

Sen. J. Isah

08185651909 | isahj@ymail.com

Sen. O. Yakubu

07032642674 | yakubu.oseni75@yahoo.com

NASARAWA

Sen. A. Adamu

abdullahi.adamu@nass.gov.ng

Sen. G. Awkashiki

08099321703 | godiyaakwashiki123@gmail.com

Sen. U. Almakura

08077253989 | tankoalmakura@yahoo.co.uk

NIGER

SEN. ALIYU ABDULLAHI - THE SPONSOR OF THE BILL

08052046555 | draliyuabdullahii@gmail.com

Sen. M. Bima

08173479797 | sangibima@gmail.com

Sen. M. Musa

08033114615 | Sani_313@hotmail.com

OGUN

Sen. R. Mustapha

08033047403 | adeoshy@gmail.com

Sen. I. Amosun

08033213993 | amks2@yahoo.com

Sen. T. Odebiyi

08036058080 | toluodebiyi@gmail.com

ONDO

Sen. A. Akinyelure

08091707000 | akinyelure1@yahoo.com

Sen. N. Tofowomo

08054546666 | tofowomo_1960@yahoo.com

Sen. R. Boroffice

08176406557 | rboroffice@yahoo.com

OSUN

Sen. S. Basiru

08034753343 | ajibolabasiru@hotmail.com

Sen. F. Fadahunsi

08052242211 | adefadahunsi19@gmail.com

Sen. A. Oriolowo

08033565979 | yemlee12@gmail.com

OYO

Sen. T. Folarin

08055544411.| yfolarin@gmail.com

Sen. B. Omotayo

08037053375 | rabab1004@yahoo.com

Sen. A. Balogun

08132956057 | kbalogun7707@gmail.com

PLATEAU

Senator I. Longjan

07044442045 | talk2longjan@gmail.com

Sen. H. Dimka

08033359443 | dewansamson4@gmail.com

Sen. I. Gyang

08097777712 | dridgyang@gmail.com

RIVERS

Sen. B. Apiafi

betty.apiafi@nass.gov.ng

Sen. G. Sekibo

george.sekibo@nass.gov.ng

Sen. B. Mpigi

08037419000 | mpigib@yahoo.com

SOKOTO

Sen. A. Gobir

abdullahi.gobir@nass.gov.ng

Sen. A. Wamakko

07033181818 | amwamakko@yahoo.com

TARABA

Sen. S. Lau

shuaibu.lau@nass.gov.ng

Sen. E. Bwacha

07063795588 | info@senatorbwacha.com

Sen. Y. Yusuf

08033109493 | yusufawakili@gmail.com

YOBE

Senate President Lawan

07055090323

Sen. I. Gaidam

ibrahim.gaidam@nass.gov.ng

Sen. I. Bomai

ibrahim.bomami@nass.gov.ng

ZAMAFRA

Sen. K. Tijani

08186567173 | tykaura@yahoo.com

Sen. H. Gusau

hassan.gusau@nass.gov.ng

Sen. A. Yari

08033412454 | yariabdulazeez@gmail.com

FCT

Sen. A. Tanimu

08034509106 | philipaduda2@yahoo.com

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BOLA IGE, A LEGEND THAT SHOULD FOREVER BE RECOGNIZED. - M.O AKANDE

BIOGRAPHY

James Ajibola Idowu Ige, SAN (Yoruba: Bọ́lá Ìgè; 13 September 1930 – 23 December 2001) simply known as Bola Ige was a Nigerian lawyer and politician. He became Federal Minister of Justice for Nigeria. He was murdered in December 2001.

BACKGROUND

Hon. James Ajibola Idowu Adegoke Ige was born in Esa Oke, Osun state in the South Western part of Nigeria on 13 September 1930. His parents were Yoruba natives of Esa-Oke town, in the old Oyo State (now in Osun State). Bola Ige left Kaduna and headed south to the Western region at the age of 14. He studied at Ibadan Grammar School (1943–48), and then at the University of Ibadan. From there, he went to the University College London where he graduated with a Law degree in 1959. He was called to the bar in London's Inner Temple in 1961.

Bola Ige established Bola Ige & Co in 1961, and later became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. He became well known in the country for his oratory prowess, as well as his advocacy work on civil rights and democracy. Bola Ige's faith was Christianity. Uncommonly, Bola Ige spoke all the three major Nigerian languages, Yoruba, Ibo and Hausa fluently. He wrote several books, and an anthology of articles and tributes about him was published shortly after his death.

EARLY POLITICAL CAREER

During the First Republic (1963–1966), at age 31 he was at the centr of the Action Group crisis, when Chief Obafemi Awolowo was pitted against his deputy, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola. He became a rival of Olusola Olaosebikan for succession to Obafemi Awolowo. Bola Ige was a Commissioner for Agriculture in the now-defunct Western Region of Nigeria (1967–1970) under the military government of General Yakubu Gowon. In 1967 he became a friend of Olusegun Obasanjo, who was a commander of the army brigade in Ibadan.

In the early 1970s, during the first period of military rule, he devoted his time to the anti-racism campaign of the World Council of Churches. Towards the end of the 1970s he joined the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), the successor to the Action Group. When General Olusegun Obasanjo initiated the Second Republic, he was elected as governor of Oyo State from October 1979 to October 1983. Adebisi Akande, later to be governor of Osun State after it was split off from Oyo State, was his deputy governor during this period. In the 1983 elections, when he ran for re-election as the UPN candidate, he was defeated by Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo. Ige unsuccessfully challenged the election in court. However, Olunloyo lost the seat three months later to a coup staged by Generals Muhammadu Buhari and Tunde Idiagbon.

Ige Bola was detained after the coup, accused of enriching party funds. He was released in 1985, after the next coup, by Ibrahim Babangida, and returned to his legal practice and to writing. In 1990, he published People, Politics And Politicians of Nigeria: 1940–1979, a book that he had begun while imprisoned. He was a founder member of the influential Yoruba pressure group, Afenifere. Although critical of the military rule of General Sani Abacha, Bola Ige avoided political difficulties during this period.

THIRD REPUBLIC

Following the restoration of democracy in 1999, Bola Ige sought the nomination of the Alliance for Democracy party as a presidential candidate, but was rejected. President Obasanjo appointed Bola Ige as minister of Mines and Power (1999–2000). He was not able to make significant improvements to service provided by the monopoly National Electric Power Authority (NEPA).

He then became Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (2000–2001). In September 2001 Bola Ige said that the Federal government had initiated a program to re-arrange and consolidate the laws of the Federation, publish them in digital form, and make them available on the website of his ministry. He campaigned ardently against the imposition of the Sharia law in the northern states of Nigeria. In November 2001 he said that the Federal government would not allow the Sokoto State government to execute the judgement of a verdict passed by a Gwadabawa sharia court to stone a woman, Safiya Hussaini to death for committing adultery.

Bola Ige was about to take up a new position as African's Representative on the United Nations International Law Commission when he was gunned down in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

DEATH

On 23 December 2001, Bola Ige was shot dead at his home in the south-western city of Ibadan. He had been entangled in squabbles within his Alliance for Democracy party in Osun State. The previous week, the long-running feud between Osun state Governor Bisi Akande and his deputy, Iyiola Omisore, had apparently contributed to the death of an Osun State legislator, Odunayo Olagbaju. The government of President Olusegun Obasanjo deployed troops in south-western Nigeria to try to prevent a violent reaction to the murder. Although various people were arrested and tried for involvement in the murder, including Iyiola Omisore, all were acquitted. As of November 2010 the killers had not been found. He was buried in Ibadan. In a speech at his funeral, he was quoted as saying that he was sure that Nigeria was worth living for but he was not so sure that it was worth dying for.

Reference:

https://peoplepill.com/people/bola-ige/

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