Senate Has No Power To Singlehandedly Impeach President – Ndume

July 25, 2016

Senate Leader, Mohammed Ali Ndume, on Monday dismissed reports of a planned impeachment process against President Muhammadu Buhari, saying it was untrue.

Ndume said it is futile for anybody to think the Senate alone can impeach the President.

The Senate leader told journalists in Abuja that impeachment process is never a sole business of the Senate.

The Borno South lawmaker was emphatic that the Senate cannot impeach the President.

He said, “The impeachment process is a National Assembly matter not the Senate alone. Senate cannot impeach the President. It is the National Assembly that can impeach the President. The Senate cannot impeach President Buhari.

“It is the National Assembly and it is by 2/3 majority.

“It is a process, a long tedious process and in this country we don’t even need that. We are not even contemplating it and even if anybody contemplates it, it is not going to work because this is an APC Senate.

“We have the majority. It is 60- 58 senators and you need 72 senators to start off impeachment process.

“Where are they going to get the 24? Let me tell you as some of them are coming into PDP, many of them have their other legs with us in the APC.” [myad]

Osinbajo Vows: Never Again Will Public Funds Be Diverted For Political Campaign

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has vowed that never again will the public funds be diverted for political campaigns in favour of any of the political parties.

Speaking on Monday at the 2016 Annual Conference of the Mallam Bashir Yusuf-led Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) held at the Yar’adua Centre, Abuja, Osinbajo recalled that when the current government took over from the PDP-led government in May last year, it found out that a huge chunk of money meant for the purchase of arms to fight terrorists in the North-east was diverted.‎

Osinbajo, who was represented my his special assistant on political parties, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, said the federal government is not targeting ‎opposition parties in its anti corruption drive but wants to bring sanity to the polity in order to sustain democracy in the country.

“Politics and elections should not be war or ‎depletion of public resources. Never again will government agencies be used in favour of any political party to win elections. The war against corruption is not targeted at the opposition parties. What government is doing now is that money meant for essential services should not be diverted for campaigns or any other purposes.”

He said that the reason why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is going after some of the stalwarts of the PDP is because the party diverted money meant for public services for political campaigns or other questionable purposes.

He said that the Buhari’s anti corruption drive had gone to show that huge sums of money voted for security was diverted ‎into private pockets while part of the money was used for campaigns by the PDP-led government.

According to the Vice President, the trend cannot be allowed to continue, even as he called on the IPAC tp play critical role in educating political parties and the general public on the issue so that ‎democracy can survive in Nigeria.

Osinbajo recounted the terrible experience of the military in the hands of Boko Haram insurgents during the regime of the former President, Goodluck Jonathan, when some of the soldiers went to the battle with obsolete weapons.
The ‎Senate President, Bukola Saraki in his remarks, called for concerted efforts to sustain the democratic culture in the country. [myad]

Minister Thinks Big For Sporting Activities In FCT

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Muhammad Musa Bello has said that his government is thinking of reviving sporting activities in the capital territory so as to allow sports to take their rightful position in the socio-economic development of the Territory.
The FCT received a delegation of the Nigerian Hockey Federation led by its President, Senator Abdul Ningi, said that sport is a very important avenue to engage the youths and also serves as employment opportunity.
Muhammadu Bello who acknowledged the assistance the FCT has been receiving from the Nigeria Hockey Federation, made it clear that the FCT Administration would partner and support Sport Federations to take sporting activities to greater heights in the Territory.
“The current FCT Administration would do everything possible to revive sporting activities in the Federal Capital Territory particularly hockey, because it also goes a long way in
improving the health status of the people.”
The Minister emphasized that the FCT has an international standard hockey pitch which he asked the Nigeria Hockey Federation to take advantage of, saying he would leverage on the experiences of the President as well as the Board members in engaging the FCT youths.
He assured that the FCT Administration would be represented at the closing ceremony of the on-going super league competition in Abuja as requested by the Federation.
Speaking earlier, the President of the Nigerian Hockey Federation, Senator Abdul Ningi said that the Federation is expecting some sports facilities from the International Hockey Federation and the Federation will be attending the African Hockey Federation meeting in Accra, Ghana in September 2016. He therefore solicited for the FCT Administration’s support. [myad]

Buhari Admires Iran’s Economic Recovery Through Diversification

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

President Buhari with Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran H.E. Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif and H.E. Mr. Morteza Rahimi Zarchi Ambassador of Iran to Nigeria at the Statehouse on 25th July 2016.

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed great respect for the economic recovery of Ira through the use of diversification. He said that his government is carefully understudying the experiences Iran and other countries that have thrived in adversity.

Receiving a Special Envoy from the President of Islamic Republic of Iran at the State House, Mohammad Javad Zarif, President Buhari said the Iranian economy remains an inspiration for Nigeria in the deployment of technology to harness and export gas, grow food for the populace and promote entrepreneurship in education.

“The progress made by Iran within a short period of 30 years is really commendable. Within the period, you have been able to harness gas flaring, and you are now exporting. You have recorded strides in security, manufacturing, agriculture and technology.

“You have also achieved a lot in nuclear research. I must also congratulate you for successfully negotiating with America and the European countries on the development of your nuclear energy,’’ he said.

The President noted that Nigeria had all the potentials for growing into a great economy through more inclusive planning, consistency in government policies and commitment to the realization of development targets.

“In Nigeria, we are learning. We are learning the hard way through hardship, and we are learning very quickly on how to explore other sectors of the economy like gas, solid minerals and agriculture for growth.

“We are grateful for your support and cooperation in opening up the Nigerian economy for diversification,’’ President Buhari told the envoy.”

The Iranian envoy, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, assured the support of the Iranian government of the ongoing restructuring of the Nigerian economy.

“We are very keen to see a better and stronger relationship with Nigeria, which is the largest country in Africa and a major global player.”

Zarif said that he came into Nigeria with a delegation of more than 70 members of the Iranian business community who had already started discussions in investing in sectors like banking, education, scholarship, agriculture, energy, tourism and technology development. [myad]

Let’s Cash In On APC Mistakes For 2019 Elections, Ciroma Encourages PDP

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

A former Nigeria Minister of Finance, Adamu Ciroma, has encouraged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to brace up to cash in on the mistakes the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will make before the 2019 general elections.

“Anybody can make a mistake. The beauty of it is that every party that has a chance to rule has the chance to make mistakes. APC will make a lot of mistakes and the PDP must be ready to put things right and all of you must be ready to contribute, participate and get involved for the interests of ordinary Nigerians.’’

Ciroma who spoke when he received members of PDP Board of Trustee led by its Chairman, Senator Jibrin Walid, in Abuja, emphasized that any party that got into power must make mistakes, and advised fellow party members to prepare ahead of the 2019 elections, “especially as the APC will continue to make mistakes.”

He insisted that the PDP is still the dominant political party, dominating political discuss in Nigeria despite the country being an APC-led Federal Government

“Just before the last elections and when we saw the trend of events, I warned members of the PDP to prepare themselves for whatever eventuality that may come. Today, PDP didn’t lose and APC didn’t win because APC has a lot to do.

“When you talk about politics, you talk about PDP. When you talk of politics, people talk about PDP as If APC does not exist. So far, APC is not playing the right role‎.’’

He challenged PDP members to play positive roles in politics as there would always be several parties, hence, they must learn to make the masses the centrepiece of their developmental projects.

“Politics will always be there,’’ he said, adding that “there must be good and bad people who’ll participate in it.

“Everybody who participates in politics does so for good cause and that good cause is of the interest and political stability of all Nigerians.

“There will not be one party; there will always be one political party or the others.

“I insist that people must play the rightful role in politics and that role is to promote the interest of the poor masses.

Earlier, Senator Walid said ‎that the visit was “part of strategies mapped-out to visit well-recognized founding fathers and leaders of the PDP to tap from their advice on the way forward for the party.

“We promise you that we shall remain the conscience of our party,’’ he assured.

Members of the BoT on the entourage included former President of the Senate, Adolphus Wabara, former Deputy President of the Senate, Ibrahim Mantu and Professor Jerry Gana.

(NAN). [myad]

Buhari Is Positively Handling Niger Delta Problems, SGF Babachir Assures

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal has said that President Muhammadu Buhari has been positively handling the problems of the Niger Delta region even as he asked the people in the region to give the President time to properly develop it.

Babachir Lawal who spoke at an empowerment programme, sponsored by Ossy Prestige, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Aba North/Aba South federal constituency, said that President Buhari is working tirelessly to deliver a new country and appealed for the support of the citizenry.

The SGF, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters to the President, Mr. Gideon Samani, commended the lawmaker for his sterling performance in one year as well as commitment to the welfare of his constituents through the provision of empowerment items.

“We have noted the problems of this area as presented by the traditional rulers. During my trip from Owerri, we have seen how terrible the roads were. It is like if you are part of the IDPs in the North East zone. For the issues in the Niger Delta, we call on you to give the President time to solve the problems. The issue of Ogoni region is receiving attention. You know that in the budget, we have provided money for creating employment for the youths, including money for skill acquisition.

“Already, we are employing about 10,000 policemen. We have budgeted money for the less privileged. Mr. President is looking for men and women who will team up with him to rebuild the nation and make it great again. He wants people who will team up with him to fight corruption. Mr. President is trying his best to do away with corruption. Our President is also in the assignment of recovering stolen money. Nigerians should support him.”

He called on Mr. Prestige to join the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to identify with the change agenda of the federal government.

Earlier, the lawmaker had said that he will continue to do his best to uplift the lives of his constituents, adding that within one year, he has instituted free health care, legal services as well as road maintenance system for the constituency.

Among the empowerment items distributed at the event include tricycles, sewing machines, motorcycles, bags of rice and garri, as well as power generating sets. [myad]

FCT Minister Reminds APC Of Need To Provide Good Leadership Before Next Elections

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Muhammad Musa Bello has called on leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the North Central zone of Nigeria to remain united and provide good governance to the populace against the backdrop of the 2019 general elections.
The minister, who spoke when the Deputy National Chairman, North Central zone of the Party, Zakari Idde, led the state chairmen of the zone to pay him a courtesy visit in Abuja, noted that good leadership and good governance are necessary for the Party to prolong its electoral fortunes in the region.
“The Party is in control of all the states in the North Central and the only way it could go back to solicit their support during elections is by providing quality leadership at levels of government.
“This is an opportunity for us to show good governance because it is something that our members have been yearning for a long time. We have to really govern properly to enable the
people spot the difference so that next time, when we go back to them, they will receive us with open arms.” [myad]

GTBank Commonwealth Team Wins Polo Cup Competition In London

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

The GTBank Common Wealth Team, made up of players from Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa and Canada, has emerged victorious against the England team to win one of Polo’s most iconic trophies.

The Commonwealth Team, sponsored by leading African financial institution, Guaranty Trust Bank plc, defeated the England Team 12 – 11 in what was tagged an amazing showpiece of fast-paced polo filled with pure passind fair play.

The Royal Salute Coronation Cup is one of the most historic of polo trophies which annually pits the finest international players against the England team in a contest attended by members of the British Royal Family as well as distinguished personalities from the world’s Diplomatic, Aristocratic, Business, Arts, Government and Celebrity circles

The match, which held Saturday July 23 was played on the prestigious Smiths Lawn at Guards Polo Club, Ascot, within the magnificent surroundings of Windsor Great Park in London, United Kingdom.

The Commonwealth team, represented by South African Chris Mackenzie, Canadian Freddie Mannix, Pakistani Hissam Ali Hyder and New Zealander John Paul Clarkin defeated an English team of tournament veterans Jack Richardson, Max Charlton, James Beim and James Harper to become only the second guest team to win Royal Salute Coronation Cup since 2009.

According to the Chairman of the Hurlingham Polo Association, Brigadier John Wright: “this year’s Royal Salute Coronation Cup showcased international polo at its best. I would like to thank the organizers of this event for creating a world-class platform on which to promote polo to an increasing audience.”

Commenting on the Bank’s sponsorship of the Commonwealth Team, e Commonwealth Team, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Bank plc, Segun Agbaje, said: “we are proud to sponsor the Commonwealth Team in a tournament that is second to none in the world of Polo and which showcases the noble values of passion, quality and competitiveness – values deeply enshrined in the GTBank culture and which have made the bank a truly African and proudly international financial institution.”

GTBank has consistently played a leading role in Africa’s banking industry. The Bank operates from over 230 branches in Nigeria and has banking subsidiaries in Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Cote D’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and the United Kingdom. Regarded for its superior financial performance and best in-class product and service delivery, the bank has received numerous awards from industry watchers and analysts, some of which are the “Best Banking Group of 2016, Nigeria,” by the World Finance Magazine and the 2016 Bank of the Year by Euromoney, a leading authority for the world’s banking and financial markets. [myad]

Buhari Remembers Late Magaji Abdullahi For Giving Kano Quality Water

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

President Muhammadu Buhari has remembered the gargantuan work which the former deputy governor of Kano state, Engineer Magaji Abdullahi did in Kano state to bring quality water for the citizens of the state.

The President, in his condolence message on the death of the former deputy governor, Magaji’s tenure as head of one of the foremost water development agencies, Water Resources and Engineering Construction Agency (WRECA), helped Kano State to enjoy the best water supply and availability on record, a feat he said was remarkable.

The President, whose condolence message was delivered to the deceased’s family in Kano by a federal government delegation led by the minister of water resources, Engineer Suleiman Adamu, described Magaji Abdullahi as one of Nigeria’s finest and result-driven engineers of his time.

President Buhari said the late Magaji was preoccupied with producing practical results rather than theorizing about his job, a quality he noted, made the deceased an outstanding engineer who deserves a special place in our country’s engineering profession.

President Buhari noted that achieving results was the best advertisement for any man’s record in office, adding that the late Magaji’s notable contributions to the development and progress of Kano State would not be forgotten.

The President prayed Allah to grant the deceased an eternal rest in peace and a worthy place in Paradise.

The Federal Government delegation was made up by the Minister of Water Resources, the Minister (State) Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, the Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) Garba Shehu and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris.

The delegation was received by the family of the deceased, the Galadima of Kano, Dr. Abbas Sunusi on behalf of the Emir and the Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The Governor, the Emir and the members of the family of the late Deputy Governor expressed appreciation to the President for the prompt response and the kind words he had for the late Magaji Abdullahi. [myad]

Woman Gets Death Sentence For Stabbing And Setting Pastor Husband Ablaze

Greenbarge Reporters

July 25, 2016

A 28 year-old housewife, Mrs. Mary Attah has been condemned to death by hanging by an Effurun High Court for stabbing her Pastor husband with a kitchen knife and setting him ablaze.

The Court, presided over by Justice E.I Oritsejafor, pronounced the woman guilty of the one count charge proffered against her by the Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. The offence is punishable under Section 319(1) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap C21, Volume 1, Laws of Delta State of Nigeria, 2006.

Justice Oritsjafor held that prosecution led by an Assistant Director, Mr. Patrick Mekako was able to prove beyond all reasonable doubt the essential ingredients of the offence of murder against the accused person.

“I must also add that the evidence before this Court do not and cannot support the plea of self defence in favour of the accused person. I agree with the learned Assistant Director for the Prosecution that there is just no possible defence to avail the accused person when she stabbed her deceased husband in the neck with a knife and thereafter doused him with fuel before she struck the match on him was to kill the deceased or do him grievous bodily harm. The law is trite that a man intends the natural consequences of his act.” Justice Oritsjafor held.

“From the evidence before this Court and in particular the extrajudicial statement of the accused person, Exhibit A and the evidence of PW1 and PW2 which corroborates and is consistent with the facts contained in the said extrajudicial statement Exhibit A, I hold that the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt that the accused person murdered her deceased husband on or about the 6th day of July, 2012, and I find the accused person guilty of the murder of Darlington Attah as charged. Accused person is accordingly, hereby convicted of the offence of murder. The sentence of this Court upon you, Mary Attah is death by hanging by the neck till you be dead and may the Lord have mercy on your soul.”

Prosecution, Patrick Mekako, had told the Court that the accused who was married to Darlington Attah (now deceased) with four children, on or about the 6th day of July, 2012 at Effurun within the Effurun Judicial Division, did attack her husband with a kitchen knife and stabbed him in the neck as a result of an alleged phone call from the husband’s lover.

The Court was further told that the accused was infuriated by the telephone call at a time they were having a ‘nice time’ which prompted her to rush to the kitchen, collected the knife and armed herself with grounded pepper which she rubbed on her husband’s face to immobilize him before stabbing him in the neck.

Not satisfied, she doused the husband who was already weak as a result of excessive bleeding with fuel and set him ablaze. He later gave up the ghost at the Warri Central Hospital where he was rushed to. [myad]

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