COVER
RUGA: Count Buhari Out of Islamization Agenda-Osinbajo
…..VP Urges Resistance to ‘Divisive Agenda’
From Mark Maya, Lagos
Against the backdrop of war drums over the Federal Government plans to establish RUGA settlement for headsmen in the country, the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, has advised Nigerians to resist divisive agenda exacerbated by opposition parties and anti-government agents .
Speaking yesterday in Lagos at the launch of a book entitled: “Battlelines: Adventures in Journalism and Politics”, to mark the 80thth birthday of a former governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba, the vice-president said there was no disputing the facts that Nigerians had strong belief in the unity of the country and were often ready to live peacefully with one another.
The Vice-President said unity was an essential ingredient of nation-building and greatness of the country, but expressed displeasure with the predilection of some unpatriotic citizens to use all sorts of tactics to undermine the unity of the country.
Osinbajo said said some members of the political class had always played ethnic and religious cards to pit people against one another, thereby causing disaffection.
He urged citizens to resist all divisive antics and tactics, adding that Nigerians should not fall for any agenda that could undermine unity.
The Vice President dismissed claims that President Muhammadu Buhari was pursuing an agenda to Islamise the country adding such claims were false and divisive.
Osinbajo said that the narrative in some quarters that the president was protecting killer – herdsmen and Boko Haram members was a desperate ploy to promote ethnic and religious suspicion.
The Vice-President said Boko Haram once made attempts on the president’s life, and the incident, which occurred during one of his campaign visits, had betrayed the fact that the claims that he was protecting them were just to cause disunity.
He said the government was committed to the well-being of all Nigerians, and urged citizens to unite against all evils, including religious extremism.
Osinbajo said that Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and others were enemies of the nation, urging all citizens to join hands with the government to root them out.
”The likes of Boko Haram, ISIS, Islamic State West Africa Province and many Salafist-Jihadist ideologies are expansionist ideologies that feed purely on hate, hatred of any person or group that does not belong to their particular sect.
”They have no grievances, so there are no terms of reference for peace. Fanatics committed to a twisted creed.
”They exploit the ignorance of the tenets of Islam, poverty and exclusion, recruit men and women and use children to perpetrate the most heinous atrocities.
“They are motivated by a satanic desire to control communities by murder and terror.
”Whether it is in Iraq, Borno or Syria their victims are men, women and children, Muslim or Christians so long as they do not share their sick ideology, they target churches, mosques, markets and motor parks where people gather, using children as human bombs to kill randomly, regardless of tribe or faith.
”The challenge for us is to recognize this extremism for what it is. To form alliances across faiths and ethnicities to destroy an evil that confronts us all,” he said.
According to him, herders and farmers conflicts, random killings, banditry and kidnapping in different parts of the country were extant challenges that the army has had to intervene in on several occasions.
”I want to reassure all Nigerians that these issues are being seriously tackled by the Federal Government, working with the States, through a multi-pronged approach. Nobody will be allowed to maim, kill or commit other crimes and escape.
”It is our duty to apprehend and punish these criminals and we are doing and will continue to do so,” he said.
The Vice-President described Osoba as a patriotic Nigerian, saying he had made great impacts in journalism and politics.
Osinbajo said that one of the remarkable attributes of the former governor was his ”Pan-Nigerianism”, as he had been able to build bridges and make friends across all parts of the country.
The Vice-President congratulated him on his 80th birthday, saying he had no doubt that the former governor was still full of energy to contribute more to nation-building.
A former Head of State and Chairman of the occasion, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, also called for unity and peaceful coexistence of all citizens.
He described insecurity as a major issue in the country and urged the government to do its best to address the problem.
The former Head of State commended Osoba for writing the book, saying the piece would help shed light on his contributions to nation-building.
Abubakar said that he had known Osoba since the 60s and the former governor had always exhibited traits of greatness and love for the country.
”Osoba is a detribalised Nigerian who has done well both in politics and journalism,” he added.
The reviewer of the book, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi, said the book aptly captured the exploits and achievements of Osoba both as a journalist and a former governor .
Olorunyomi, Publisher of Premium Times, said the 341-page book employed the use of lucid expressions which were expected from an outstanding reporter like Osoba.
”The book showcases the great media manager that he was at Daily Times, The Daily Sketch and Herald and all he has done in politics,” he said.
Speaking, Osoba, flanked by wife, Derinsola, and children, said he decided to write the book to document his experiences both as a politician and journalist.
He said that he wrote the book to reveal what some people might not know about him.
The former governor thanked dignitaries who attended the book launch, saying he felt honoured by their presence.
”I particularly thank God to be alive after attempts to kill me by the military failed. I thank my friends for being part of my story and my family for the support,” he said.
Those present at the book launch included Gov. Dapo Abiodun (Ogun); Gov.Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo); Gov.Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos); Gov. Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa) and Gov. Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) were some of the dignitaries at the book launch.
Former governors, Donald Duke, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Obong Victor Attah and a former Rivers governor and minister, Mr Rotimi Amaechi were also present.
Senate President, Ahmed Lawan; a national leader of All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; and a renowned economist, Prof.Pat Utomi were some of the others present.
By David Torough, Abuja
It was another historic milestone for pan-African investor Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Industries Limited over the weekend, as they garnered three prestigious accolades at the 15th annual Brand Africa 100 awards, held at the iconic Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia—the birthplace of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU).
Dangote Industries Limited was named Most Admired African Brand, following an independent, consumer-led survey conducted across more than 30 African countries. The company was also inducted into the Brand Africa Hall of Fame, becoming the first African firm to receive this distinction. The induction recognises Dangote’s transformative impact on African consumers and its influential role in shaping a positive narrative for the continent.President/Chief Executive, Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his leadership in driving impactful industrialisation, establishing a world-class African brand and reshaping the continent’s economic future through a benchmark, homegrown enterprise.Joining Dangote Industries in the inaugural Hall of Fame were MTN, M-Pesa, Ethiopian Airlines, and South Africa, for consistently ranking among Africa’s most admired brands over the past 5 to 15 years and for building sustainable, globally respected brands.Reacting to the awards, Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, Anthony Chiejina, said the honours reflect the unwavering commitment, excellence, and innovation that define the group’s journey. He added that they are a testament to the dedication of the company’s outstanding team, partners, and stakeholders, who continue to believe in the mission to drive sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.”We also extend our heartfelt appreciation for the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to our Founder and President, Aliko Dangote for building a purposeful world-class industrial brand that has exceptionally transformed African lives and the African narrative. This accolade celebrates not only his visionary leadership but also his tireless efforts in transforming industries, creating opportunities, and championing African enterprise on the global stage. His legacy is an inspiration to generations of entrepreneurs and leaders across Africa,” he said.Noting that the recognition would further inspire the company to push boundaries, empower communities, and deliver meaningful value across Africa and beyond, Chiejina reaffirmed Dangote Industries’ commitment to excellence, integrity, and transformative growth.In his keynote address, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Mr Claver Gatete, praised Aliko Dangote, the Hall of Fame inductees, and the Brand Africa laureates for advancing the African agenda.He highlighted the alignment between Brand Africa and the ECA’s mission to promote inclusive industrialisation, regional integration, and private sector-led growth. He also called for increased investment in youth-led innovation, regional value chains and the establishment of a Pan-African Creative Innovation Fund to identify, finance and globalise Africa’s most promising brands.”I wish to particularly acknowledge MTN, Dangote Group, mPesa and Ethiopian Airlines for consistently maintaining their distinguished positions among the “Most Admired African Brands” category and continuing to set benchmarks in brand leadership, innovation and continental impact,” he said.
By Johnson Eyiangho and Laide Akinboade Anima, Abuja
A team from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Monday sealed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.The sealing of the PDP secretariat came barely 24 hours to the much anticipated meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) scheduled for Tuesday.
The national secretariat also serves as the venue to the PDP NEC meeting. A joint taskforce comprising officials from the FCTA, Police, DSS, Army, NDLEA and NSCDC stormed the Secretariat at about 2.04pm and sealed the office shortly after a crucial meeting of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC).However, after a briefing meeting between the FCTA and PDP officials, all cars parked in the premises of the Secretariat were allowed to move out, while the PDP’s officials rushed to Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge for the Caucus meeting of the party.The sealing of the Secretariat is widely perceived as a strategic escalation in Wike’s ongoing feud with leadership of the party, particularly those pushing for the removal of his lackey, Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, as National Secretary of the party.Meanwhile, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP has vowed that the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting slated for Tuesday May 27, 2025 will be held as scheduled.A party official who did not want to be named described the sealing of the Secretariat as a temporary setback, vowing that all party activities leading to NEC and beyond will continue.The National Caucus Meeting, Board of Trustees and Governors meetings are part of activities ahead of the NEC meeting.The FCT Minister had revoked over 4,700 properties due to long-standing non-payment of ground rent to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).Also affected by the Monday exercise are Access Bank, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Ibro Hotel and Total Energy in Abuja.The enforcement, which began in the Wuse District, was led by FCT Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze and Director Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima.Speaking during the sealing of Plot 534, Cadastral Zone A02, Wuse Zone 1, belonging to Total PLC, Galadima said, “Today is about walking the talk. We announced this earlier, and we are here to implement what we said to take possession of all revoked properties, starting with this plot.”He noted that the Total PLC property had accumulated over 10 years of unpaid ground rent, leading to its revocation in March 2025.Also sealed was the Access Bank branch located on Plot 2456, Wuse 1, Cadastral Zone A02. The property, however, belongs to Rana Taher Furniture Nigeria Limited and was revoked due to 34 years of unpaid ground rent.Galadima said the enforcement would proceed to other parts of the city, including the Central Area, after the Wuse district.Tinubu Intervenes, Gives 14-days GracePresident Bola Tinubu has intervened on the ongoing enforcement of possession of 4,794 properties revoked for non-payment of ground rent from 10 to 43 years and has given them 14 days ultimatum to pay up.This was revealed at a briefing by the Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, in Abuja.He said the defaulters have been given 14 days to pay up all outstanding and the penalty fees.The Director of Land noted that even though properties owned by government institutions, corporate organisations and individuals were affected, the Administration is committed to carrying out its functions without fear or favour.He said, “However, the President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has intervened. Therefore, by Mr. President’s intervention, holders of the affected properties now have 14 days (TWO WEEKS) to settle the outstanding Ground Rents, with associated penalties.”For properties in the Central Area, the sum of N5 million will be paid by the defaulters as penalty, in addition to the Ground Rent owed.”Those in Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, and Guzape Districts will pay the sum of N3 million as penalty, in addition to the Ground Rent owed.”Defaulters in Wuse I, Garki I and Garki II will pay N2 million as penalty in addition to the Ground Rent owed”.He added, “Also, all those who purchased properties from other people, but are yet to register their interests by obtaining the mandatory Minister’s Consent and registering their Deeds of Assignment now have 14 days (TWO WEEKS) to do so at the FCT Department of Land Administration.”Furthermore, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, has granted a 14 days (TWO WEEKS) grace period to all property holders in the FCT to pay up their Right of Occupancy (R-of-O)/Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills, or risk revocation of those titles”.The FCT Minister therefore urged property owners in the FCT to ensure that they pay all necessary bills and charges on their properties as at and when due, so as to enable the government to continue to carry out necessary developmental projects for the benefit of the people.
From Attah Ede, Makurdi, Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Over 42 persons have been reportedly killed, with seven others badly injured and two persons kidnapped in the latest attacks on four communities in Gwer west Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.It was gathered that most residents have fled their communities as the attacks have become a daily occurrence.
According to a local source, while over 20 persons were killed in Aondona community, seven others were killed in Ahume, five in Tyolaha along with six persons killed in Orbiam community and two others kidnapped near a military base in the local government area respectively. The source further said that the armed Fulani herders first attacked Aondona town on Sunday at about 4pm and continued yesterday at Ahume and a Military Base at Orbiam and Tyolaha.”I can categorically confirm to you that 20 persons were killed in Aondona, five in Tyolaha, seven killed in Ahume and 6 others were killed in Orbiam at the Military Base which is just three Kilometers away from Naka town, while seven people were injured with two others kidnapped.”The local government council in collaboration with stakeholders in Nagi set up a search and rescue operation team. So far, the search and rescue team has recovered six corpses this morning (Monday), while the injured ones have been evacuated to general hospital Naka for medical attention.”As I speak with you, our people have fled all the communities in the affected areas. The whole communities have been deserted and taken over by herders. We can no longer go to farms, children have stopped going to school, while markets and churches have been shutdown due to the activities of these Fulani terrorists occupying communities. Government must do something, they must act fast to stop these incessant killings in Benue State particularly in Gwer-West”, the source said.The Chairman of Gwer-West Local Government Council, Victor Ormin confirmed the incident, saying that the killing was still on as over 42 people have been killed so far.He described it as a “Pathetic situation”, revealing that recovery of corpses is still ongoing and over 30 dead bodies have been recovered so far between Sunday and Monday(yesterday).According to him, when he confronted the military on why they are adamant to engage the armed herders, the military personnel told him they were yet to receive a directive from higher authorities to engage them.”Only yesterday, I buried five people, fathers of children and when I confronted the military to engage the killers of my people, they told me that they are waiting for a directive from higher authorities.”So, until my people are all killed before the federal government would give directives to military personnel before engaging these people.”They are claiming that they don’t have the mandate to engage these people, that it is only the federal government that can give them the mandate to engage these people. So, my people should be killed, dead all before the federal government would talk about it; what is the meaning of this?”Yesterday I buried a father and two of his children over 40 to 50 years of age in Tse- Orbiam, very close to a military base. What is the meaning of this? Now we are talking about 40 or more people. This is genocide.”If they cannot help me, maybe I will leave this chairman seat and let it continue the way it is. I don’t care about being a chairman of a people that are all killed. Look at a child of two years old butch with cutlasses.”More than 20 people were killed in Aondona village. This is a village of the former first lady of this state, Eunice Ortom. This is the village of Tor Gwer, this is the village of Bishop of Makurdi catholic diocese Bishop Anagbe. This is talking too much to condole and I can tell you, whatever will happen, will happen. Thank you”.”We are not saying that the military is incompetent, the soldiers are waiting for the orders and the mandate to do what they have to do which have not been given.A Mobile police man, identified as Magaji, was killed yesterday. He has dedicated his whole life to service, he is always at that junction along Naka road whether he has bullets or not. Yesterday when they came, they said he finished his ammunition and was scouting for people to leave and Magaji was killed yesterday. This is genocide.As of press time, the Benue State Police Command was yet to confirm the ugly development in Gwer-West Local Government Area. All efforts to get confirmation from the command’s police public relations officer, Catherine Anene was unsuccessful as she could not respond to text or calls.Kogi Auto-Crash Claims 19, Injures EightThe Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Monday confirmed that no fewer than 19 persons died and eight others injured in an auto crash which occurred on Sunday along Lokoja-Obajana road.State Sector Commander of the corps, Kumar Tsukwam confirmed this to DAILY ASSET in Lokoja on Monday.Tsukwam said that some of the survivors sustained bruises, cuts, dislocations, fractures, and fire burns.He said that the fatal accident occurred at Gadabiu community along the Lokoja-Obajana road in Lokoja Local Government Area of the state around 4pm on Sunday.He revealed that among the 19 burnt to death, were five children.According to him, the fatal and very sad accident involved an articulated vehicle (Truck) and a Toyota Hummer Bus heading to Abuja from the South.He said that it was a head-on collision when the bus on high speed tried to overtake an articulated vehicle only to face an incoming articulated vehicle with no option.“It was very unfortunate, because it was caused by speeding and wrongful overtaking and involved 27 persons with only eight survivors.“Our rescue operation team and the police were able to rescue the eight survivors and rushed them to Fisayo Hospital, Obajana for immediate medical attention.The commander said that the highways were not race roads and appealed to motorists to avoid speed and wrongful overtaking.He also tasked motorists to always keep to traffic rules and regulations to help the corps and the federal government in reducing road traffic crashes and carnage on roads across the country.
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