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Witness Denies There Were Technical Issues With INEC Server During Presidential Election

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Says He Doesn’t Have Amazon’s Mandate To Represent Obi/LP

On Tuesday, the expert witness for the Labour Party from Amazon Web Services Incorporated USA returned to the witness stand for her cross-examination, making it a contentious day at the Presidential Election Petitions Court.

The witness Clareta Ogar, who identified herself as a cloud engineer and cloud architect, had earlier told the court that there were no glitches on February 25, 2023, when the presidential election held that could have affected the e-transmission of results.

She was put through a series of questions that got the proceedings heated up at some point when the counsel for the respondents tried to establish what her link with the organization she claims she works for is. Reference was made to her appointment verification letter which bears the name Employee Resource Centre and not Amazon Web Services, AWS, Inc; and also that there is no identification card from the company confirming her as an employee.

An attempt by the Labour Party counsel to intervene by insisting the witness had responded appropriately led to a reprimand by the Justices who cautioned him for disrupting proceedings. The Presiding Justice said “You are going about this as if you are in parliament. You are a senior counsel Ikwueto, there are juniors behind you”. The next most senior member on the panel, Justice Stephen Adah said, “Please don’t interject if you don’t want us to take meaner action against you”

But Ikwueto insisted he only was trying to help the court, and the court directed the respondents to proceed with the cross-examination

In response to why the witness did not tender her identification card, she responded that AWS does not issue identification cards, and that all employment verifications from Amazon Web Services are issued by Employee Resource Centre of the company.

She also denied being in court as a representative of the company she works for and on the mandate of Amazon Web Services, but as an expert subpoenaed witness to speak as a cloud engineer.

This led to further questioning on how she got the report she submitted before the court, and she responded that they are public information posted on the AWS Amazon.

Asked whether the report she submitted is a product of Amazon, but she claimed ownership of it on the ground that she was the one that submitted it before the court

The court also noted, based on her admittance that the subpoena that compelled her appearance was not delivered to the company she works for, but to her in person

This led to a digging into the background of the witness, who confirmed that she is a member of the Labour Party and that she contested for a House of Reps election in her constituency in Cross River State, which she lost but denied allusions that she is a Labour Party activist

On further questioning, the witness confirmed that she had sued INEC after it failed to publish her name in the final list of candidates; and that her main complaint was that she could not upload her information on the INEC website due to network failure. She however refused to accept that network failure is a form of network glitch

The respondents’ counsel also read out information showing periods in which the Amazon cloud services suffered glitches globally on February 27, 2017. While the witness confirmed that the glitch actually occurred, she held on to the position that the health status report as at the day of the presidential election on February 25, 2023 showed there was no glitch on the infrastructure that hosted applications and accounts including that of INEC.

Also at the proceedings on Tuesday, the chairman of INEC, Prof Yakubu Mahmood responded to the subpoena served on him on May 30 and that of June 13, 2023, by producing some documents through two senior officials of the Commission.

The Deputy Director, Department of Certification and Complaints of INEC, Mrs Moronkeji Tairu tendered the documents contained in the subpoena dated May 30 issued on the INEC chairman.

She said, some of the documents required by the petitioners are not in the Commission and that some of the documents come from INEC’s offices across the states and that because of lack of logistics, those documents could not be produced as of Tuesday and added that, the Subpoena dated May 30 was served on the Commission on Monday.

While assuring that the rest documents would be made available within the week, the INEC official presented documents on INEC’s manual for election officers.

Lead counsel to the petitioners, Dr. Livy Uzoukwu (SAN) informed the court that INEC refused service of the Subpoena all the while and all efforts to serve the Commission proved abortive until Monday.

The court cautioned that Mr Uzoukwu’s continuous reference to his meeting with INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, could not be relied upon as a subsisting law which the court could regard as a legal compelling force.

The court highlighted that there is an existing legal process of applying for documents with clearly spelt punishment for refusing or obstructing the process but the Labour party counsels have not thoroughly followed the process but has continued to wrongly relied on the assurances made in person by Mr Yakubu.

The documents in question include the state collation sheets of the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Also, the Deputy Director, ICT department of INEC, Dr. Lawrence Bayode also presented some documents contained in the June 16 subpoena issued on the INEC Chairman and informed the court that the rest of the documents are work in progress.

The five-member panel of Justices of the court, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani adjourned further hearing in the petition till Wednesday, June 21.

Court fixes July 13 for judgment in Emefiele’s suit against FG

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DSS insists CBN ex-boss not denied access to family, lawyers

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), yesterday, reserved judgment in the enforcement of a fundamental rights suit filed by suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, till July 13.

Justice Hamza Muazu fixed the date after listening to submissions made by parties in the matter.

Counsel to Emefiele, Joseph Daudu (SAN) had argued that contrary to the preliminary objection raised against the originating summons on notice by the respondents, the court has the jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

According to him, the offences listed against the plaintiff are state offences that could be entertained by the court.

Lawyer to the Attorney-General of the Federation, Tijjani Ghazali (SAN), informed the court that the first respondent is challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case brought before it by the applicant.

He stressed that Emefiele’s arrest and detention is an administrative decision of an arm of the executive, adding that jurisdiction is determined by the reliefs sought by an applicant.

He, therefore, urged the court to dismiss the application, submitting that the allegation of unlawful detention is unfounded, as the plaintiff is being detained on the order of an FCT Chief Magistrate’s Court.

Counsel to the second and third respondents, I. Awo, told the court that there was a subsisting order to detain the applicant and, therefore, urged the court to dismiss the application with cost.

The presiding judge, consequently, fixed July 13 for ruling.

President Bola Tinubu had, on June 10, suspended Emefiele from office. Shortly after, the secret service announced that he is in its custody.

The Federal Government had also explained that the suspension was to allow an “ongoing investigation of his office and the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy.”

BUT DSS has refuted allegation by Emefiele that he had been denied access to his family and lawyers.

The agency’s spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya, made the rebuttal, yesterday, in a statement, titled: “The DSS operates within its mandate.”

According to Afunanya, the celebration of news of a court order to allow Emefiele’s lawyers and family access to him is “quite unnecessary.”

He said: “He was never denied access. Ever since he was taken into custody, his family has continually accessed him. Same with medical officials. The impression that the Service is going to act on the prompting of the court is not correct.”

[Guardian]

Publish Details To Show Demolished Alaba Market Buildings Is Not Political Attack Against Igbos - Ezekwesili Tells Sanwo-Olu

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A former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has asked Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to publish details of the buildings that were demolished by the state government at Alaba International Market, located in Ojo LGA of the Lagos.

Ezekwesili noted that publishing details of each of the buildings demolished would prove that the demolition of the structures was not a political attack against Igbo community at Alaba Market.

“I have a Policy advice for @jidesanwoolu that would be helpful for all sides and the public.

“Mr Governor, please immediately publish details of each destroyed building and the dateline of Due Process rules that were exhausted by your Government before it was “removed”.

“It will be wise for the Governor to take this counsel on Transparency and Full Disclosure since it would provide evidence to the public that this is not a vengeful political attack against the predominant Igbo community in Alaba Market,” she tweeted on Tuesday via her Twitter handle @obyezeks.

Ezekwesili also advised the Lagos State government and President Bola Tinubu, not to fan embers of discord, adding that politics of vendetta does not do anyone good.

“Let me also use this opportunity to really again advise the @followlasg and its cheerleaders including @officialABAT to be careful in persisting to brew a terribly toxic atmosphere against fellow citizens since before, during and after the 2023 elections.

“Governance by maliciousness does no one any good. A word is sufficient for only the wise,” she added.

THE WHISTLER recalls that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) had on Sunday, demolished 17 distressed structures at the market, which is dominated by people of Igbo extraction.

On Friday, LASBCA had given final warnings and vacation notices to the occupants of the affected buildings.

According to LASBCA, vacation notices were first issued in 2016, noting that others were issued in 2020, 2022 and 2023.

“These buildings marked within this ALABA International Market would have been included in the list of 349 distressed buildings earlier published in different national newspapers this year but because the occupants were always harassing our officers, it was impossible to capture the details of the structures and include them in the publication,” the General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, had said on Friday.

“What we have done now is a joint exercise carried out by both the Lagos Task Force officers and the demolition gang of Lagos State Building Control Agency. The buildings would be demolished”, he noted.

Acknowledging the impact the demolition of the distressed buildings, which were used for commercial purpose would have on commercial activities within the market, Oki had said the buildings had to go to avoid putting the lives of innocent persons at risk.

“We know that this area is a commercial centre and one of the busiest markets in Lagos State but despite this, we cannot fold our arms and allow irregularities to continue to thrive in the market where the lives of innocent persons would be put at risk because of the failure of a few set of individuals who have refused to do the needful,” he had said.

However, some traders had alleged that the buildings were demolished because Igbos did not vote for Sanwo-Olu, in the 2023 governorship election, a claim which has been dismissed by Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the state.

Speaking with THE WHISTLER on Monday, the President of Ohanaeze in the state, Chief Ogbonna Aguene, noted that the demolition of the buildings had no political undertone, adding that vacation notices were given beforehand to the occupants.

Court Of Appeal Sets Aside Warrant Of Arrest Against Amaechi, Others

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An Appeal Court in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, has set aside a bench warrant of arrest issued against the former Governor of the state, Rotimi Amaechi and two others.

The others are the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 elections, Tonye Cole and the Commissioner for Power in the Amaechi administration, Austine Wokocha.

The ruling followed an appeal filed by Amaechi and the others seeking the setting side of the order by a lower court.

His appeal was considered by a panel of three judges, of which two of them agreed that the order be set aside, while the other, departed.

Justice Abdul-azeez Waziri, who read the ruling that was prepared by the presiding Judge of the Court, Joseph Ikyegh, said the order by the lower court was made in defiance of the Court of Appeal.

He read that the order of arrest was given when there was already an application before the Appeal Court by Amaechi challenging the service of information on him pursuant to Section 313 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law in the state.

Reacting to the ruling, lawyer to Amaechi, Achinike Wobodo said a lower court was supposed to have respected the hierarchy of court placements in the nation’s judiciary.

On his part, one of the state government lawyers, Alphansus Sibi, accepted the position of the Appeal Court in good fate.

The warrant of arrest was issued last month by a High Court in Port Harcourt in a criminal case instituted by the Rivers State State Government.

The case involved the sell of public assets including the state’s gas turbines by the Amaechi administration to Sahara Energy, a company that is owned by Cole, a businessman turned politician.

UK Cuts Tariffs On Products From Nigeria, 64 Others

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The United Kingdom (UK) Monday simplified trading rules and cut tariffs on products from developing countries, including Nigeria, saving businesses and consumers millions of pounds a year.

The UK’s new post-Brexit Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) scheme, which entered into force yesterday, according to a statement by the British Deputy High Commission in Nigeria, covers 65 countries, including Nigeria.

It said with the new scheme, over 99% of goods exported from Nigeria would automatically be eligible for duty-free access to the UK.

It added that Nigeria would receive enhanced preferential access for almost 3,000 products.

“4.5% removed on cocoa paste, 26.5% removed on fruit juices, & 14% removed on prepared tomatoes”, the statement said.

The scheme, according to the statement, removes or reduces tariffs and simplifies trading rules so that more products qualify for the scheme, making it more generous than the EU scheme the UK was previously a member of.

The scheme will benefit developing countries looking to diversify and increase exports, driving their prosperity and creating jobs.

Minister for International Trade Nigel Huddleston who launched the scheme while on a visit to Ethiopia’s largest industrial business park, Bole Lemi, said: “This DCTS scheme is a brilliant example of the UK taking advantage of its status as an independent trading nation and I am excited to see it implemented today.”

Speaking on the launch, UK Deputy British High Commissioner in Lagos, Ben Llewellyn-Jones said: “Nigeria is one of the UK’s most important partners in Africa and the UK government is committed to working with Nigerian businesses and exporters to boost trade between our two great nations. The UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme harnesses the power of trade to help Nigeria and other emerging economies grow and prosper.

“One major benefit of this new UK trading scheme is that it abolishes tariffs on over 3000 everyday products that Nigeria currently exports including cocoa, cotton, plantain, flowers, fertilisers, tomatoes, frozen shrimps and sesame. The overarching aim of the new scheme is to grow trade with developing countries, boosting the economy and supporting jobs in those countries, as well as in ours.”

10 Nigerian startups, 15 others to receive Google’s $4m

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TEN Nigerian-based startups and 15 others from other African countries are to receive $4 million in Google’s Black Founders Fund.

According to Google, “Each selected startup will receive $150,000 in non-dilutive cash awards, up to $200,000 in Google cloud credits, advert support, one on one mentoring by industry experts and invaluable connections within Google’s network.

It said the initiative, which was in its third year, was designed to help tackle systemic racial inequality in venture capital funding by providing equity-free grants and mentoring to early stage Black-led high-growth businesses across Europe and Africa.

Google said: “This is crucial for Africa to become a global tech leader and the selected cohort of 40 startups from Europe and Africa, includes 25 African startups that embody the diverse entrepreneurial spirit across the African continent.

“The funding will provide the businesses with the capital needed to take their ventures to the next level and expand to new markets, supercharging economic opportunities and job creation.

Head of Startups Ecosystem, Africa at Google, Folarin Aiyegbusi, said: “Startups play a major role in advancing Africa’s digital transformation.”

”We look forward to working with this group of innovative founders who are using technology to solve some of the most pressing challenges in Africa.

”The Google for Startups Black Founders Fund is committed to addressing the stark inequality in VC funding by providing Black founders with the resources and support they need to succeed.”

One of the beneficiaries of the fund, Ifedayo Durosinmi-Etti, who is the founder of Herconomy, said: “At Herconomy, we are on a mission to reimagine the financial landscape for women in Africa. Being chosen for the prestigious 2023 Black Founders Fund will fuel our revolutionary vision and accelerate our progress.

“With the funding and support provided by the program, we will expedite the development of our innovative solutions, enhance support for our valued customers, and expand our presence on an international scale,” she said.

[Vanguard]

Tinubu: ‘Only God Gives Power’ - Abia Labour Party Reps Member Tells Peter Obi, Atiku

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In what is a walk back on his apology following his endorsement of the election of President Bola Tinubu, a member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the Labour Party, Amobi Ogah, has again taken a veil hit at Peter Obi the LP presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election.

Ogah’s latest comment which is another attempt to put pressure on Obi to concede defeat to Tinubu was made on Monday according to the video interview published on Tuesday by Channels TV.

The freshman lawmaker who is representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State, at the 10th assembly in the video advised both Obi and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, whom he said “lost” the election to concede defeat and support Tinubu as he is “on the throne” as ordained by divine grace.

Recall he ran into trouble during the run up to the inauguration of the 10th Assembly when he praised Tinubu for his intelligence, in an astonishing manner that many labour party supporters immediately called for his recall.

During the June 8 comment, he said Tinubu was most prepared for the office as president adding that he was shocked at his intelligence.

He called on Nigerians including candidates during the February elections to join hands to solve the country’s problems.

He later apologised for his comment noting that he was misunderstood.

He however restated that call in the latest interview he granted the TV station, explaining that, “Once you are in this politics, don’t lose hope. Don’t think that if you don’t win today, you will not win again.

“And once somebody has won an election, to be a good sportsman, you must give the person support,” Ogah said without mentioning names.

He further noted that, “For me, like I said earlier last week, that trended all over the world when I told the people, the election has come and gone.

“Now it is about governance. And whoever God has given that mandate to represent the people, you must respect that institution

“And that is why I always say, whoever that is on that seat, give the person that supports until either court says otherwise or God says otherwise.”

He sermonised that, “We must put Nigeria first. Nigeria is more important than anybody. It is more important than me. I can tell you it is only God that gives power.”

Both Obi and Atiku are challenging the outcome of the election at the tribunal.

Last modified on Wednesday, 21 June 2023 05:51

Five things Tinubu should do to fix Nigeria – Arewa youths

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The National President of Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF, Yerima Shettima has set a five-point agenda for the President Bola Tinubu administration.

President Tinubu upon assumption of office, vowed to change the economic and security template of the country.

Within two weeks, he carried out a major shake-up, leading to the sack of all the Service Chiefs.

He had earlier relieved Abdulrasheed Bawa of his duty as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, INEC, and Godwin Emefiele as the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, governor, amid other reform policies.

Shettima told DAILY POST that the President had taken major bold steps so far.

He went ahead to outline five major areas of focus for the new administration.

SECURITY

Shettima expressed optimism that Tinubu would make giant strides in tackling insecurity in Nigeria.

He noted that the sack of the Service Chiefs and immediate replacement was a sign that Tinubu was determined to tackle insecurity.

Shettima said: “Tinubu is an advocate of restructuring and true federalism, but he might not want to do it directly. For instance, what happened yesterday, was one of the best things he has done by sacking those Service Chiefs.

“This is a clear indication that he is all out to confront insecurity by bringing fresh ideas and people to tackle it.

“Making Ribadu his NSA was a good thing because he is very principled and does not tolerate corruption, not because he was a former EFCC Chairman, but because he’s a no-nonsense person. So, I’m sure we are progressing in the area of insecurity.”

ANTI-CORRUPTION

In the area of corruption, Shettima said Tinubu has shown Nigerians his determination to subdue the hydra-headed monster in the country with the sack of Bawa and Emefiele.

He said: “We can see from his body language that Tinubu is out to fight corruption by bringing Bawa to book; but beyond him, there are others like governors who served under the last administration who should be brought to book on account of what they have done.

“Somebody like Hadi Sirika must be brought to book and made to explain that last-minute scam because that’s an abuse of our sensibilities as Nigerians. ”

ECONOMY

He charged Tinubu to end states’ dependency on the federal allocation, stressing that they should be made to pay taxes.

“Though our economy is very bad, the centre can’t hold, state governors should go back to their state and begin to harness their resources.

“If possible, the constitution should be amended rather than depend on federal allocation, states should be useful by ensuring the payment of tax to the centre, so that the burden will be lesser at the centre now,” he said.

AGRICULTURE

The AYCF National President urged the President to diversify the economy by encouraging agriculture and ensuring the sector is managed by capable hands.

“Beyond looking for oil, they should diversify the economy by looking at Agriculture. Let’s have people who know what it takes, even if it means bringing expatriates on how to make agriculture so that that sector can do better.

“This government must ensure that our educational sector must be very functional by allocating good money there and supervising it properly, not like the case of Buhari who put people there without any supervision,” he said.

OPENING OF BORDERS

“Tinubu should open up the land borders for import and export, though with restrictions. The Customs, Immigration and those responsible should know that it won’t be business as usual.

“This will help in ensuring that we don’t have a porous border where everything comes in and goes out,” he said.

[DailyPost]

Tinubu Approves Return Of NEMA, Hajj Commission To VP’s Office

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the return of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to the Office of the Vice President for supervision, in compliance with their various establishment Acts.

The president also approved the return of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to the Office of the Vice President.

Mr Olusola Abiola, Director, Information, Office of the Vice President, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.

Moreso, Tinubu approved a formal structure for the Office of the Vice President as well as an appropriate number of technical and administrative aides that would work with the vice president in the discharge of his responsibilities.

(NAN)

ICPC Boss Faults Nigeria’s Rating On Global Corruption Ranking

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Chairman of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Bolaji Owasanoye, has criticised Transparency International’s (TI) corruption perception index.

Owansanoye, who spoke at a two-day training session for journalists organised by the commission in Abuja, said the TI’s reports typically paint a misleading picture of corruption in poor nations.

He claimed that TI gives poorer ratings to nations that are victims of corruption than to those that get the proceeds of the crime.

By projecting the anti-corruption activities of the commission, Owansanoye urged media professionals to help change the narrative.

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LP Crisis Deepens As Osun Chairman Accused Of Embezzling Obi’s N38m

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The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Osun State on Tuesday suspended the State chairman, Prince Bello Adebayo, for anti-party activities and alleged embezzlement of N34 million allowance meant for polling agents who worked for the party during the 2023 general election.

The allowance also covered the publicity of the presidential candidate of the party during the election.

Adebayo’s suspension was conveyed by party executives in his ward (ward 12) in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State.

The suspension was announced at a press conference chaired by Hammed Sheriff.

“Our reason for suspending Bello Adebayo was hinged on Article 19(1B)(2B) subsections 2,3,4 and 5. He carried out anti-party propaganda and his failure to attend Ward meetings about 10 times without cogent reason.”

This was just as the chairmen of the party across all local government areas of Osun led by Raheem Taiwo-Ojo (Ede South) passed a vote of confidence on the LP Acting Chairman in the state, Chief Sussan Ojo, dissociating themselves from ‘illegal’ suspension of the National Legal Adviser of the party, Barrister Akingbade Oyelekan and Sussan Ojo by Bello Adebayo(ex-chairman).

Ojo alleged that N4 million that was released by LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for publicity to Adebayo was not paid to the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council (LPPCC) and after the 2023 General election, N30 million meant for polling agents given to him was allegedly misappropriated.

She explained that “Comrade Lanre Fadahunsi who is the SW Coordinator of Big Tent and the Chairman of Media Committee of the LPPCC, Barrister Jimoh Babalola featured on both radio and TV stations marketing Peter Obi and canvassing for votes. The funds spent on this were not given by Adebayo (as it was promised) he took the intervention of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Spokesman Dr. Umar Tanko before he could release part of the money.

“Also, polling agents tasked with the responsibility of submitting Form EC8A after the elections were not compensated despite the fact that he was given N30M to pay polling unit agents that submitted the Form EC8A. Now the leaders of LPPCC are being chased around by those who submitted these forms while Bello collected and cornered their funds.”

Meanwhile, Adebayo, reacting to the allegations, said, “there’s no substantial excos for ward 12, all executives in Osogbo local government areas are unhappy. Their tenure has expired because they didn’t even make the Congress which was may last year. So, there is no substantial exco for ward 12.

“The only money sent to us then was N300,000 naira. The N300,000 was sent to us by Chief Akinosun Tokun. Sp, the evidence is there they can contact him.”

Last modified on Wednesday, 21 June 2023 05:28

Tinubu Appoints Ex-Lagos CP Hakeem Odumosu As Substantive EFCC Chairman

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, as the substantive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The appointment of Odumosu, a former Lagos State Commissioner of Police, is subject to confirmation by the Senate.

He replaces Abdulrasheed Bawa who was recently suspended by President Tinubu to pave way for investigation into allegations of abuse of power levelled against him.

Odumosu retired from the Nigeria Police Force in January 2022, shortly after his elevation to the rank of Assistant Inspector General (AIG) and after serving for 32 years.

He served as the first chairman of Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce) and also the Commander of the State-funded Rapid Response Squad (RRS).

Nigerian Editors Restate Commitment To Defence Of Democracy, Press Freedom

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…the role of journalism in shaping good governance and democracy has never been more crucial than now‘

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has recommitted itself to creating the enabling and sustainable environment that upholds press freedom and protection of journalists’ rights, in order to ensure the sustainability of democracy and good governance.

It also said being conscious of its constitutional and social responsibility, its commitment to professionalism will help shape the narratives, influence public opinion, and help forge a society that thrives on transparency, inclusivity, justice and a system of government that is accountable to the citizens.

The NGE, which is the professional body of all editors in Nigeria, stated these at the end of its two-day national biennial convention in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

In a communique signed by its new President, Eze Anaba, and the General Secretary, Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the editors added that in a rapidly evolving media landscape, where information flows at an exceptional pace, the role of journalism in shaping good governance and democracy has never been more crucial than now.

‘’We, as journalists, bear the enormous responsibility of providing accurate, reliable, and unbiased news to the public, thereby fostering transparency, accountability, and public participation in the affairs of our nation.

Eze Anaba, NGE President

"The 2023 general elections marked a decisive turning point for our nation’s democracy. And as we embark on this new phase, it has become very necessary that editors – as gatekeepers, recommit themselves to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and integrity. We must be the precursors of truth, holding those in power accountable; while providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives,’’ the editors stated.

Examining the role of journalists in the 2023 general elections at the convention themed, “Post 2023 Election: Promoting Professionalism for Enhancement of Democracy and Good Governance”, and which was attended by 400 editors cutting across the print, broadcast and online media, editors recommitted themselves to the watchdog role – in ensuring that public office holders are closely monitored in order to live up to the expectation of the people.

The NGE added, ‘’To achieve this, we must prioritise continuous professional development and capacity building. As journalists, we should strive to stay updated on emerging trends, technological advancements, and ethical standards within our industry. This national convention serves as a demonstration to our shared commitment to excellence and the pursuit of knowledge.

‘’We intend to collaborate and foster partnerships not only within our ranks but also with other stakeholders in the democratic space; engaging with civil society organisations, government agencies, and international bodies in order to build bridges and intensify our mutual impact. By doing so, we will be in strategic position to continue to create an enabling environment that upholds press freedom, protection of journalists’ rights, and ensures the sustainability of democracy and our profession.’’

The editors praised Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who declared the elective convention open, for creating the conducive environment for its success.

The peaceful elective convention saw Mr Anaba, the Editor of Vanguard Newspaper, securing 250 votes to emerge as the new President. He defeated his only opponent Bolaji Adebiyi, executive editor, Western Post, who polled 81.

Other members of the new executive elected include, Husseina Bangshika, Deputy President; Sheddy Ozoene, Vice-President (East); Umoru Ibrahim, Vice-President (North); Kabir Alabi Garba, Vice President (West); Iyobosa Uwugiaren, General Secretary; Gabriel Akinadewo, Assistant General Secretary; Steve Nwosu, Treasurer; and Charles Kalu, Social/Publicity Secretary.

Other standing committee members elected are: Onuoha Ukeh, Paulyn Ugbodaga, Oluwole Sogunle, Dom Isute, Rose Moses, Chinedu Egere and Mohammed Jibril.

[PRESS STATEMENT] NIMASA Not A Revenue Generating Agency – Ade Dosunmu

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My attention has been drawn to speculation purported to have emanated from the Presidential Policy Advisory group erroneously classifying the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) as a revenue generating Agency, thereby proposing a merger of NIMASA, CUSTOMS and FIRS. It is a very serious misconception and dangerous for the future of shipping/ Maritime industry in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) was created in 2007 following the merger of National Maritime Authority (NMA) and Joint Maritime Labour Industrial Council (JOMALIC) deriving its powers from Merchant Shipping Act, 2007, NIMASA Act, 2007 and Coastal and Inland shipping (cabotage) Act, 2003. The Agency, is a Maritime Safety Administration responsible for regulating shipping activities in Nigeria with a view to achieving safer shipping and cleaner oceans as mandated by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) through its various Conventions and Protocols.

The enabling acts give NIMASA statutory powers as specified by International Conventions and protocols for the enthronement of global best practices in ensuring safety of Navigation and prevention / control of marine pollution in the shipping industry as regulated by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), in which Nigeria is a contracting member state. The agency also has responsibility for development of indigenous shipping capacity.

International Maritime Organisation (IMO), is an organ of the United Nations charged with the responsibility of regulating global shipping trade with special focus on safety of Navigation and prevention of Marine pollution as contained in the United Nations Convention on the Law of The Sea, (UNCLOS). Article 194, 211, 212, of UNCLOS specifically mandates states to adopt Laws and regulations for the prevention, reduction and control of pollution of the marine environment from vessels flying their flags or of their registry.

The IMO has 167 Maritime Nations as members including Nigeria due to our vast Maritime Coastline. It issues conventions and protocols which all members’ state assent to, regulating global shipping trade. Such Conventions as Marine Pollution Prevention (MARPOL), and its various annexures i.e. Discharging of oily waste, Noxious substances and dangerous goods, Discharging of sewage, Garbage including plastics, Air emission, etc. Other Conventions like London Protocol on Prohibition of Dumping of Waste in the Marine Environment, International Convention on Wreck Removal (Nairobi Convention), Training and Certification of Seafarer (STCW ’95), Safety of Life At Sea (SOLAS), Convention on Ship Recycling to Ensure Environmental Sound Practices (Hong Kong) Convention, to mention just a few. All these convention have been domesticated in Nigeria and NIMASA is the Focal Agency for implementation of the conventions through the discharge of its technical mandate which cannot be performed by any other Agency in Nigeria.

NIMASA being the Safety Administration of Nigeria has counterparts in 167 Maritime Nations responsible for ensuring safer shipping and cleaner oceans through the instrumentality of the technical mandate it performs viz Port states inspection, Flag states inspection, Search and Rescue, Maritime Capacity Building, Maritime Security by ensuring our waters are safe from Piracy and Sea robbers, Prevention/Control of Marine Pollution, Administers the Training and Certification of Seafarers(STCW ’95), shipping development, coastal and inland shipping (Cabotage) and maritime labour administration. All these functions by NIMASA require technical expertise and can only be performed by a Safety Administration. The same technical functions are performed by Maritime Safety Administration of UK, MCA, US Coast Guard, Safety Administration of Greece, Finland, Cyprus and all other member countries of IMO.

It is therefore my humble position that emphasis of Government should be on how to strengthen NIMASA to deliver more on its technical mandates and not merging it with Agencies that are not compatible with its philosophy and objectives. However, I am happy Ms Hadiza Bala Usman the former MD of the Nigerian Ports Authority has been appointed by President Tinubu as the Special Adviser Policy Coordination. Hadiza whom I know is very abreast of the Nigerian Maritime sector would be able to advise the President accordingly due to her expertise and experience in the industry.

I can say the proposal in my view is like suggesting a merger of Nigerian Navy with Nigeria Civil Defence because the later has responsibility for protecting critical National assets. For instance, technically speaking, all ships that call on Nigeria waters carry minimum of five Certificates which include Certificate on safety equipment, Certificate on radio equipment, and certificate on crewing etc. These certificates are carried by all ship calling on Ports Globally. NIMASA Surveyors, under its Port states responsibility must board these ships to ensure compliance with global requirements. NIMASA also carries out flag state inspection on all ships before they are registered to determine their fitness for purpose. In this regard, the ships are subjected to preregistration survey and condition survey. All these are in line with the Safety of Life At Sea (SOLAS) Convention and STCW ‘95 Convention.

Again the activities of over forty (40) Floating production storage offloading (FPSO) and Floating Storage Offloading (FSO) like, Agbami, Bonga, Egina, Akpo engaging in crude oil exploration and production offshore Nigerian waters are potential polluters. It is the responsibility of NIMASA to monitor and ensure that there is no pollution of the marine environment to protect aquatic life and our Ecosystem. To do this, NIMASA must invest heavily on the procument of offshore Reception Facilities to collect and process the wastes from these platforms. All these are in line with MARPOL Convention, and the mandate requires technical know-how which NIMASA over the years has developed capacity to handle.

Let me quickly point out that there is no doubt that in the course of discharging her technical mandate, NIMASA generates revenue and uses part of it to prosecute its technical regulatory functions. The surplus at the end of the year is paid into the federation account in line with the target set by Ministry of Finance. However, the critical and urgent nature of some of these technical activities and the fact that they require instant response is part of the reason NIMASA is allowed to retain its funds and sometime not allowed to go through the bureaucracy of tendering e.g a vessel that is sinking or an unexpected oil spill and pollution of the waters, or wreck that needs to be removed to ensure safety of channels for Navigation, flag state inspection, survey, regular patrol of our coastal waters and enforcement of necessary regulations.

It is my strong view therefore that the proposed merger will be counterproductive with huge negative implications for Nigeria in the global shipping community. Our waters may be considered no longer safe for international shipping and that can affect the volume of maritime trade and eventually lead to drop in revenue. Another implication is that our waters can become a destination for rickety ships and thereby becoming a dumping ground for ship wrecks and derelicts. As at today, Nigeria is the leading maritime Nation in West and Central Africa in terms of ship traffic and cargo. This feat was not achieved in a day. It is the cumulative effect of the reforms successive administrations introduced to strengthen the capacity of NIMASA as a Maritime Safety Administration for the country.

As former Director General/CEO of NIMASA, Executive Director (NIMASA), Assistant General Manager (NPA) and representative of Nigeria on the Council of International Maritime Organisation (IMO), my advise is that the Federal government under the able leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR should consult major maritime stakeholders on issues affecting the Maritime industry for proper guidance. The industry is the gate way to the economy of Nigeria and also very critical to the logistics aspect of the oil and gas industry since most of the crude oil production and exploration activities take place offshore Nigerian waters. Trial and error will not work. Rather, NIMASA being the regulator should be strengthened technically. The whole idea of merger should be set aside until wider consultation with the industry stakeholders is held.

Thank you.

Dr Ade Dosunmu, MON Former DG/CEO NIMASA