Court Blocks PDP Leadership From Removing Damagum as Acting National Chairman

A Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a restraining order preventing the National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from removing Umar Damagum as the Acting National Chairman. This ruling ensures that Damagum remains in his position until the party’s national convention, scheduled for December 2025.

The decision, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, followed a lawsuit filed by Senator Umar El-Gash Maina. Maina argued that any attempt to alter the party’s leadership must follow the PDP Constitution, specifically Articles 42, 47, and 67, which state that national officers can only be elected during the National Convention.

Maina, Chairman of the PDP in Yobe State, expressed concerns that certain factions within the PDP were plotting to replace Damagum with Dr. Phillip Omeiza Salawu, a former Deputy Governor of Kogi State. He claimed to have sent letters to the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, detailing these covert activities but received no substantial response.

Justice Lifu ruled in Maina’s favor, emphasizing that the leadership of the PDP must adhere to the constitutional procedures, particularly the rotation of the chairmanship between the northern and southern regions. He also declared that any move to remove Damagum without a convention or court order would violate the party’s Constitution.

The court’s ruling reaffirmed that Damagum, appointed from the northern region following the departure of former national chairman Senator Iyorcha Ayu, is entitled to serve the remainder of the four-year term. Justice Lifu concluded that the PDP’s NEC and BoT are bound by the Constitution, and any disruption of Damagum’s tenure would be a serious breach.

Impetus for Okura State as National Chairman Inaugurates Committee

The quest for the creation of Okura State out of the present Kogi State on Thursday gained more steam as the National Chairman of the Movement, Chief Robert Audu inaugurated the Okura State Movement Special Conveners’ Committee in Abuja.

The Committee, which is headed by Professor Emeritus Godwin Ogbadu was constituted at the Movement’s meeting held to organize a crucial meeting of expanded Igala/Bassa stakeholders, scheduled to take place in Ata Igala Palace, Idah on 26th October, 2024.

In his inaugural address, Chief Robert Audu, the Agenyi Attah Igala and retired federal Permanent Secretary, charged the members to ensure the success of the meeting, which is expected to put a final touch on all aspects of the proposed state, preparatory to the expected Public Hearing on the Bill, seeking the creation of the proposed Okura State, as presented by Hon. Halims Abdullahi Ali, the Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, along with the Memorandum for the creation of Okura State already presented to the National Assembly.

He commended members of the National Assembly from Kogi East Senatorial District, for the effort they are making so far, to place the request for the creation of the proposed state at the front burner amongst requests, being presented to the National Assembly. He further charged the Committee members to show utmost dedication on the assignment, which is the hope of the Igala/Bassa communities in the country and beyond, to place themselves over and above their peers, as they excelled in the past. He noted that the calibre of the members was an indication on the premium, being placed on the assignment by the Igala/Bassa people.

The Chairman called on all leaders of Igala/Bassa extraction to work for the realization of the proposed state, which has been our demand since 1980. There were nagging issues, which have been amicably resolved, he said, to pave the way for the creation of the proposed state, among which were: the name, capital of the proposed state and its composition.

He explained that the quest for the creation of the new state was not because of any perceived marginalisation, as the area remains the majority part of the present Kogi State. Rather, he emphasized that desire to fast-track development in the area was the motivation. He further reiterated the age-long relationship with the present Central and Western Senatorial Districts, having all been part of the old Kabba province, a relationship, he maintained, would remain even after the creation of Okura State.

On new suggestions for the name and capital of proposed state, Chief Audu said several meetings were held at various times and places, including the Ata Igala Place, Idah.

“Many suggestions as to the name of the proposed state were made. Some people suggested Inikpi State, Ayegba State, Igala State, etc. Finally, the name – Okura State was adopted, based on its long history. On the capital of the proposed state, Anyigba, which was proposed in 1980, while, Igala/Bassa were involved in demanding for two separate states – Kogi and Okura was mentioned. In order to vigorously pursue the creation of Okura State, Idah, the cultural and traditional headquarters of the Igala Kingdom and Igala Native Authority was adopted as the capital of the proposed state, based on its long history of being a home to the Igala nation, worldwide. Further issue of composition of the proposed state, to include Igala in Ajaokuta, Enugu, Anambra, Delta, Benue and Edo States were discarded, because of the difficulties in attaining the constitutional provisions.”

He added that the proposed Okura State would serve as home for all Igala, Bassa Kwomo, Bassa Nge and Mozum, wherever they may be, either within or outside the country.

Finally, he charged the Committee to consult far and wide to ensure inclusiveness and success of the proposed meeting.

In his acceptance speech, Prof. Godwin Ogbadu, an erudite scholar, thanked the Chairman of the Movement for finding the members worthy, to serve on the Committee.

He promised on behalf of the members to do a thorough job that would unite the Igala/Bassa more than ever before and congratulated the members and urged them to cooperate with him.

Other members of the committee, include, AIG Abdulsalam Iyaji (rtd), who serves as Vice Chairman, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin (rtd), AIG Haruna Garba (rtd), former Deputy Governor, Simon Achuba, former Minister Prof. Stephen Ocheni, Alhaji Alfa Ibn Mustafa, Dr. Jeremiah Ekele and Engr. Cyprian Adejoh.

Others are, Chief Dr. Rekiya Momoh – Abaji, Dr. Mrs. Lami Amodu, Hajiya Salamatu Baiwa Umar – Eluma, Arc. Alhaji Ukele Ali, Mr. Kingsley Idoko Ilona, Barr. Dr. D. D. Makolo, Dr. James Odaudu, Hon. Barr. Frank Itaka Ineke, Engr. Usman Adaji, Hon. Salifu Ameh, Ms. Precious Ojochegbe Enoch and Dr. Yakubu Ugwolawo who will serve as Secretary to the Committee.

Nigeria High Commission in UK Removes Goodluck Jonathan’s Statements from Website

The Nigeria High Commission in the United Kingdom has removed statements and policies from the era of former President Goodluck Jonathan from its official website. Jonathan, who left office in 2015 after losing the presidential election to Muhammadu Buhari, had his administration’s policies displayed on the website long after his tenure ended.

Despite Nigeria’s transition from Buhari’s administration to President Bola Tinubu in 2023, and even after the approval of a new national anthem in May 2024, the website continued to feature outdated content. It was only recently, after media reports pointed out the oversight, that the commission began updating its site.

The former anthem, Arise O Compatriots, has now been replaced by the newly approved anthem, Nigeria, We Hail Thee. Furthermore, the site has started to show “update in progress” notices for key sections such as Economy Overview, Labour Market and Unemployment, and Agriculture, which hadn’t been refreshed since Obasanjo’s era.

Dr. Bola Akintehinwa, former Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), expressed frustration over the outdated content, arguing that it tarnished Nigeria’s reputation internationally. He warned that a lack of updated policy information from President Tinubu’s government could hinder opportunities to strengthen global relationships and improve Nigeria’s economy.

“It’s all about perception. When foreign investors see outdated information, it gives the impression of carelessness, making them question the credibility of Nigerian institutions,” Akintehinwa said. He added that the issue reflects poorly on public administration in Nigeria and highlights the country’s struggle to keep up with the demands of a technologically driven world.

New Bill Proposes Mandatory Tax Identification Number for Opening and Operating Bank Accounts

Anewly proposed bill in Nigeria mandates that individuals involved in financial services, including banking, insurance, and stock-broking, must provide a Tax Identification Number (TIN) before opening a new account or operating an existing one.

Titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Assessment, Collection of, and Accounting for Revenue Accruing to the Federation, Federal, States, and Local Governments,” the proposal aims to enhance tax compliance and streamline Nigeria’s revenue collection process.

The bill, dated October 4, 2024, and obtained from the National Assembly, stipulates that any person engaged in financial services must present a TIN to ensure proper tax registration. It also extends to non-residents supplying taxable goods or services or earning income from Nigeria, requiring them to register for tax and obtain a TIN.

Non-residents earning income solely from passive investments are exempt from this requirement but must still provide necessary information as per tax authorities’ guidelines. Additionally, the bill gives tax authorities the power to issue a TIN automatically if an individual fails to register, with penalties for non-compliance set at ₦50,000 for the first month and ₦25,000 for each subsequent month of failure to register.

IPMAN Threatens to Halt Operations Over Petrol Price Hike, Accuses NNPCL of Price Inflation

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has threatened to stop operations nationwide due to the high cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold to its members by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

IPMAN disclosed that the NNPCL is selling petrol to independent marketers at inflated prices, charging N1,010 per litre in Lagos, despite purchasing it from the Dangote refinery for about N898 per litre. This price disparity has caused tension between IPMAN and NNPCL, with IPMAN demanding a refund of outstanding payments and threatening a strike if no resolution is reached.

NNPCL recently raised petrol prices at its retail stations, sparking public outrage and adding to growing economic challenges in Nigeria, with inflation and unemployment expected to worsen. Meanwhile, major energy marketers continue loading subsidized fuel under previous agreements with NNPCL.

The escalating price of petrol, which has increased by over 430% since the current administration took power, has led to significant economic concerns, particularly for small businesses and the transportation sector. Experts warn that the price hikes could exacerbate poverty and further strain Nigeria’s economy.

Living Faith Church Set for Leadership Transition as Bishops Abioye and Aremu Retire

The Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, is preparing for a major leadership shift as Bishops David Abioye and Thomas Aremu, the church’s two Vice Presidents, will retire next week. Abioye, 63, and Aremu, 67, have served the church for over four and three decades, respectively.

This transition follows the church’s recently updated operational manual, “The Mandate,” which lowered the retirement age for its leaders from 60 to 55 years. Only the church’s founder, Bishop David Oyedepo, is exempt from the age limit, allowing him to remain in his position for life.

Farewell services are planned, with Bishop Aremu’s taking place on October 15 in Ibadan, and Bishop Abioye’s on October 18 in Abuja.

PDP Suspends National Spokesman and Legal Adviser, Appoints Acting Officers

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN). This was disclosed in a statement by PDP’s National Director of Publicity, Chinwe Nnorom, on Friday.

The party has formed a committee, chaired by Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, to investigate the issues raised against the officers in accordance with the PDP Constitution.

Pending the investigation, their deputies, Ibrahim Abdullahi Manga and Okechukwu Osuoha, have been appointed as Acting National Publicity Secretary and Acting National Legal Adviser, respectively.

The NWC urged all party members to remain focused as the investigation proceeds.

AUTHENTIC BENUE STATE PDP EXCO INAUGURATED, ASUME DUTY AT PARTY SECRETARIAT IN MÀKURDI

By Asawa Joseph

Newly constituted State Executive Council of the People’s Democratic Party, Benue State Chapter, today 10th October, 2024 has been formally inaugurated into office with a charge to rescue the party from the fangs of the vultures.

The development is sequel to the inability of the National Working Committee of the party headed by Ambassador Iliya Damagun to conduct a valid ward, local government and State Congresses leading to a wide gulf and division in the party.

The inauguration ceremony which took place at the State Secretariat of the PDP in Makurdi was witnessed by founding leadership and key members of the Peoples Democratic Party {PDP} in Benue State.

Taking over the affairs of PDP in Benue State, the new State Chairman, Hon. Adabah Abah Chris accepted the challenge and burden placed on their shoulders assuring that they will do the party proud by returning it to its winning streak as opposed to the intention of some elements who want to trade with the souls of the party.

Addressing party faithful during the ceremony, leader of the Benue State PDP Elders Committee, Rt. Hon. Terngu Tsegba charged the new State Exco to work assiduously to reposition the party in line with the spirit of the founding fathers saying it is high time “petty traders” who are desperate to play the garage planks to be shown where they really belong.

Rt. Hon. Tsegba maintain that as one of the key players in the formation of the party in 1998, he and many others will not fold their hands and watch “intruders” and politicians with doubtful integrity to destroy the PDP for selfish and monetary gains.

The inauguration of the State Working Committee was done by Sam Tsumba, a doyen of the Bar, who has over 50 years of law practice experience.

CWAI Congratulates Evans Bipi on Appointment As Commissioner

• Describes it as a testament to dedication, and victory for good governance

A leading non-partisan, non- profit, pressure group promoting good governance, accountability and citizens engagement, identified as Citizens Watch Advocacy Initiative CWAI, has congratulated Evans Bipi on his appointment as Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development.

In a statement signed by Omoba Kenneth Aigbegbele on Thursday, the group described Bipi’s appointment as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication to public service, good governance and commitment to the welfare of the people of Rivers State.

“We are delighted to see Evans Bipi take on this critical role. His leadership, expertise, and passion for public service makes him an excellent fit for this position. Evans Bipi, an honest, consistent, and loyal politician, is renowned as an experienced political juggernaut in Rivers State, even being the son of Dame Patience Jonathan, Former First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Evans has consistently built a strong reputation in the political arena, who can be trusted at all times.

“Governor Fubara has made a landmark and sterling appointment as Bipi is selfless, committed and will add enormous value to the State.

“It is worthy to note that as a seasoned public servant, Evans has served as Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area in Rivers State, and Special Assistant to the FCT Minister, Bala Mohammed. We are super confident that he will drive positive change, promote transparency, accountability, and community development with his new position.” The statement added.

The group also extended congratulations to the traditional people and leaders of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area and Rivers State at large, on the victory of their illustrious son.

“This appointment is not only a testament to Evans Bipi’s exceptional qualities but also a source of pride for his community.

“We celebrate the people of Ogu/Bolo and Rivers State, who have nurtured and supported Evans Bipi’s growth into a distinguished leader. Once again, congratulations to Evans Bipi on this remarkable achievement. We wish him all the best in his new role and look forward to collaborating with him to advance our shared goals of inclusive governance and sustainable development,” Aigbegbele concluded.

Minister Calls for Youth Collaboration in Driving Digital Innovation

At the Nigeria GovTech Conference and Awards held in Abuja, the Minister of State for Youth, Ayodele Olawande, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and young people to advance digital innovation and social development.

In his keynote address, Olawande highlighted the vital role that youth play in driving innovation, especially in the digital space, and urged for their empowerment to shape the nation’s future.

“Young people are at the forefront of innovation,” Olawande said, stressing that effective governance must focus on empowering the younger generation. He pointed out the need for youth engagement in policy-making, adding, “Our concerns about policies stem from a desire for progress.”

Olawande also mentioned concerning statistics about youth in correctional facilities, underscoring the urgent need for targeted empowerment programs.

The minister’s message aligns with the conference’s theme, “Digital Innovation as a Catalyst for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” which reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive, digitally-driven Nigeria.

He called for actionable commitments and meaningful collaboration between government leaders and the youth, emphasizing the need to share knowledge and foster positive societal change.

The event, organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, brought together thought leaders, technology experts, and government representatives to discuss how technology can drive sustainable growth, particularly in areas like economic diversification, national security, and public health.

Dr. Dasuki Arabi, Director-General of the Bureau, and Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, echoed the call for a digital-first approach, stressing the need to modernize and streamline government processes.

Olawande concluded by affirming the readiness of the youth to collaborate with the government in creating a brighter future. “We, the youth, are ready to partner with you for positive development in our society.”