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Dozzy Foundation giving back to the society …embarks on a free Eye, Dental, medical outreach to his people

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Dozzy Foundation giving back to the society …embarks on a free Eye, Dental, medical outreach to his people
Chief (Dr) Daniel N. Chukwudozie
CEO, DOZZY GROUP OF COMPANIES

[dropcap]D[/dropcap]ozzy Foundation,a subsidiary of Dozzy Group of Companies, an indigenous conglomerate which started as a vision of a very hardworking, resilience and dynamic business mogul (Sir Daniel N. Chukwudozie) who went into business in 1982 as a trader. The trade metamorphosed today into a conglomerate under the name of Dozzy Group of Companies.The Group Chairman and CEO, Chief Daniel N. Chukwudozie the founding Chairman, Dozzy Group of Companies, the trail-blazing business mogul and industrialist par excellence from Okija , Anambra State, is one of the few good men. He is an embodiment of cerebral articulation, the essence of unparalleled philanthropy, the epitome of intellectual and breathtaking simplicity. The personification of undiluted humanness, the perfect example of leadership symbolism, the paragon of idealism, the soul of humanity, the heart of warrior, the perfect gentleman. It is certainly impossible to gloss over his attributes for greatness. He is a perfect gentleman, a man of valour, the bringer of rain. In the gallery of great leaders and great men, he is without doubt, a rare masterpiece, Chief  Chukwudozie, a renowned businessman, philanthropist and community leader, has impacted the society positively through various platforms, especially his business empire, Dozzy Group, which has provided employment and wealth for the teeming Nigerian populace.

Dozzy Foundation,a subsidiary of Dozzy Group of Companies recently embarked on a Free Eye, Dental, Medical Outreach to the people Basilica of St Peter’s Anglican Church, Okija, the country home of the Chief (Dr) Daniel Chukwudozie. This free medical services outreach which was in partnership with the International Centre for Vision and Health Care (ICVH) with their headquaters in Johannesburg, South Africa,was carried out between 1st to 6th of October, 2018 to help alleviate the sufferings of the people. According to the Chairman, who was represented by his media consultant, Mr Oseloka Offoh, said that the program is part of Dozzy Group Corporate Social Responsibilities to his people in area of providing good and quality healthcare services free of charge to the people who cannot afford it.
Excerpts:

Mr Oseloka Offoh
Media Consultant, Dozzy Group

Sir, what are the essence of Dozzy Foundation sponsoring this free medical outreach program for the people of Okija and its environs?
Well, you know that when God has blessed you, there is need for you to reach out to your people which is why we are doing what we are doing today. This is also part of Dozzy Foundation Corporate social responsibilities to his people. We want to do certain things to alleviate poverty among the people; and we also discovered that alot of people are suffering from eye diseases and dental illness and that is why we need to come into this platform to help alot more people together with cluster of doctors in eye and dental areas. We also do know that in these rural areas, people cannot afford good medications. There is no eye specialist hospital around, no clinic around, but with this kind of project, people would access these things and they would be happy for it.This program is slated for six days, that is what is happening here today.
Sir ,Is this program restricted to Okija indigenes alone or visitors also?
No! It is for everybody. No restrictions at all. Both indigenes and people from neighbouring communities are here today. So many people that are here are not from Okija. People from far and near are all here to access medical facilities.
Is this the only Corporate social responsibilities program that Dozzy Foudation is into?
For Okija here, Yes! But other areas, we are into several other things like empowerment for the widows, educational interventions in some universities across Nigeria. We are doing alot in the field of education. There is a multi-dimensional Vocational Institute situated right behind this church compound here at Okija designed to help the people acquire skills at different levels. We aslo have a very big model school built to help boost education in the area. In Awka, we are building a multi-dimensional estate to boost accommodation in Anambra state. We are intervening in several areas.

Mr Francis
PA to Group Chairman

Sir, what are the impacts of these projects to the people?
Well, you can see for yourself. The people are much happy with it because they are updating their health status. People who feel they are healthy when they come in will discover they are nowhere. Moreso, it is free of charge. So, they are happy. They never had it so good and that is why some of them came here as early as 5am to have access to good medical facilities.

Sir, what is the cost implications for this project?

We don’t usually quantify it but we know that its going to run into millions because God has blessed our chairman and he need to reach out to the people. Thank You!!!

Furthermore, some of the beneficiaries who spoke commended the Chairman Dozzy Group of Companies, Chief Daniel Chukwudozie for the initiative and kind gesture in bringing such medical health services to the grassroots.

Revd. Orji Nwoye said “This is the best thing that has happened to the people at this time. People are really suffering here and no good medical centres around. As you can see, we are being treated free of charge and giving us free reading glasses and free drugs. We pray that God will continue to bless him.” Another beneficiary from Ekwusigo, Mrs Angelina Ukadi was full of appreciation to Dozzy Foundation fo bringing the doctors to Okija where she used the opportunity to treat her aching teeth which has disturbed her for years now. She prayed for longer life for Chief Dozzy,
Also Mr Tony Okwunebe, a Publisher and Secretary of Grassroots Publishers used the opportunity to check his eye status where a free reading glass was given to him free of charge. Mr Tony and Grassroots Publishers thanked the Okwunebe, a Publisher and Secretary of Grassroots Publishers used the opportunity to check his eye status where a free reading glass was given to him free of charge. Mr Tony and Grassroots Publishers thanked the organizers for the good medical outreach project. Other beneficiaries who checked their health status in several areas were full of appreciation to Chief Daniel for bringing help and succor to the grassroots and down trodden.

Customs officers reject N150m bribe on Tramadol imports …•Two helicopters impounded …Seized N7.3bn Tramadol,

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Customs officers reject N150m bribe on Tramadol imports …•Two helicopters impounded …Seized N7.3bn Tramadol,
Col. Hameed Ali (rtd)

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) said yesterday that it had intercepted 40 by 40 feet containers laden with Tramadol and other dangerous pharmaceutical products worth over N7.3billion. A large number of the dangerous drugs, NCS said, were imported into the country by some scrupulous importers from India to endanger the health of the nation. Attempt by the importers to bribe Customs officers with over $400,000 (about N150million), to effect the release of just one container out of the 40 seized, it was gathered, was rebuffed by the officers.

Addressing reporters at the Apapa command of the Service while displaying the dollars yesterday, its Comptroller-General, Col. Hameed Ali (retd), said NCS has also impounded two helicopters that can be used for nefarious activities.

One of the helicopters with registration number SN-BLI, the Customs helmsman said, was intended for export, and was concealed in container number PONU7789246, while the second helicopter, a Cessna 182A, was imported into the country from the United States of America for unknown assignment.

Ali said the first helicopter was falsely declared as 388 bags of cashew nuts, while the second was concealed in container number MRKU 4457663 before they were intercepted by some vigilant and patriotic officers of the command.

Its importation, Ali said, violates Section 36 of the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), Cap C45, LFN 2004 over failure to provide End-User-Certificate from the offices of the National Security Adviser and approval from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority.

Investigation, the CGC said, was ongoing to fish out the owners of the two helicopters.

He said three suspects with some Customs officers that were involved in the clearance of some of the containers laden with Tramadol drugs from the port have been arrested for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Compt. Mohammed Garba hits hard on smugglers to recover N2.8bn in 2-month

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Compt. Mohammed Garba hits hard on smugglers to recover N2.8bn in 2-month
Comptroller Mohammed Uba Garba
CAC, Seme Customs Command

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]HE Seme border command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Wednesday said it seized contraband worth over N2.9bn which included 27 trailers load of foreign parboiled rice smuggled into the country through neighbouring Benin Republic. Speaking while displaying the seized items to journalists, the Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Mohammed Uba Garba said the command also seized 21 exotic vehicles worth N135million between September and November 2018.

According to him, “We also impounded 57 packs of Tramadol worth N11million, 40 pieces of used textiles worth N774,270 and 115 cartons of imported frozen poultry products worth N728,654.

“During this two months, our resolute determination to succeed resulted in an impressive revenue generation of N1.9billion realized for the period under review. Similarly, the uncompromising stance of the enforcement unit led to the seizure‘ of 850 items with a duty paid value (DPV) of N378 million.”
Giving details of the seizures, the Controller said the bags of rice seized were equivalent to 27 trailers and worth N302.4 million.

“The seizures were 16,729 bags of 50kg foreign rice which is equivalent to 27 trailers of rice worth N302,477,040; 115 cartons of imported {frozen poultry products worth N728,654; 57 X 50 litres of Jerry Cans of vegetable oil worth N400,440 and 111 pieces of used tyres worth N859,345.“Others are 21 vehicles worth N134,410,536; 50 litres of Jerry can of petroleum products worth N300,572 378; 50kg bags of sugar worth N7,394,521 and 40 pieces of used textiles worth N774,270.

“57 packs of Tramadol worth N11,090,832; 387 sacks of coconut worth N2,313,360 and General Goods worth N52,005,135 making a total of N2,839,507,352.66,” the Seme Customs boss stated.

On arrests, Comp. Mohammed said seven suspects who are connected to the act were arrested and are in various stages of investigations and conviction.“Already, seven suspects were arrested. some were convicted, bailed and currently detained in connection with the seizures and are undergoing interrogation for possible prosecution.
“Beyond the above statistics, it is obvious that the seizures represent the protection of the economy and security of our people. Let me state clearly that it is simply not enough to inform you about the revenue and seizures (with the DPV); what is of paramount importance is to boost our economic growth and provide employment for our teeming youths.

“Take, for instance, the government policy on rice; the rationale behind the policy is geared towards self-sufficiency in terms of food production that would meet the demand of the citizenry. Incentives have been created for rice farmers. Individuals and State governments have committed so much in terms of finance in order for this goal of self-sufficiency to be actualized.

“We as a Command cannot afford to be complacent. The dangers inherent in this illegality are too numerous to mention, hence our resolve to fight them relentlessly.

“Among the seizures recorded, are imported frozen poultry products. As you are aware, such products are unhealthy and very dangerous for human consumption due to the chemical substance used in preserving them, which are carcinogenic. “For the avoidance of doubt, we are not out to frustrate members of the public or indeed the business community, our major interest is to facilitate legitimate trade.

“All those who are compliant, have nothing to fear. We remain determined to detect, arrest and prosecute those who do not comply with the extant laws regarding importation and exportation through the land borders,” Comptroller Uba added. He said that the achievement recorded by the command was with the support of other security agencies.

He said that activities of smugglers could not be totally eliminated, adding that the command was working with Immigration, Police, Army and Navy to curb smuggling at the border.

 

My re-election will bring more transformation to my Constitutency- Hon.Jude Idimogu

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My re-election will bring more transformation to my Constitutency- Hon.Jude Idimogu
Hon. Jude Chukwuemeka Idimogu (KSM) , Member representing Oshodi/Isolo II Constituency and House Committee Chairman on Commerce, Industry and Co-operative, Lagos State House of Assembly

[dropcap]“The[/dropcap] true worth of a man is in the way he treats people who are absolutely in need. If you care about people in need, you are actually making a contribution to the development of the nation. We need to give life back to the people; democracy is important in governance. We need to see how we can use the available resources for everybody; create opportunities for all and care, especially for those who are truly in need. The gap between the rich and the poor should be bridged. Those of us blessed with material resources need to share with others. We must strike a balance with our resources.” This is the Philosophy of Hon (Sir) Jude Emeka Idimogu.
Hon(Sir)Jude Emeka Idimogu is a good leader with the character of humility, passion for service, respect, fairness,
accountability and a model others can follow.He is a quintessential leader and gentleman. He is the embodiment of cerebral articulation, the essence of unparalleled philanthropy, the epitome of intellectual and breathtaking simplicity, the personification of undiluted humanness, the perfect example of leadership symbolism, the paragon of idealism, and the soul of humanity.

In an exclusive interview with Grassroots Publishers after winning his re-election primaries APC ticket, Hon.Idimogu promised to give his constituency more quality representation.

Excerpts:

Honourable Sir,Can you briefly tell us your background story?

I am Hon.(Sir) Jude Emeka Idimogu. I am from Umuezela Abuke in Ihitte Ubuoma local government area, Imo State. A member in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II. I was born on 23rd December, 1969.I am happily married to an Ogun State woman, Lady Roseline Enitab Idimogu(Nee Kuku) from ijebu-Ode since 1990. This marriage has Produced three children all born in lagos state.I started visiting Lagos from my secondary school days in 80s and started living in lagos 1989.I completed my primary education at community primary school Abueke in Ihitte Uboma LGA in Imo state,thereafter proceeded for my secondary school education at Boys secondary school Ekwerazu Ahiazu Mbaise,Imo state from 1980-1984,later completed my A-level at methodist boys high school lagos. Later, I proceeded to Yaba college of technology Yaba where I studied accounting from 1991 to 1998 and obtained my HND in Accounting and was also admitted into Ambrose Ali
University Ekpoma from 2003-2007 where I obtained my BSc in Accounting. I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in May 2000. As a result of my quest for education, I later attended Lagos State University, Ojo main campus(LASU) from 2007-2009 where I obtained MBA in marketing. Professionally, I am a member of Chartered Institute of Accountants of Nigeria(ICAN).I am also a member of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria(CITA). In terms of my working career, I have worked with NEPA,NIBD Trustees Ltd,Savannah Bank Plc,Intercity Bank Plc now Unity Bank Plc before venturing into private business. I am the Chairman/CEO of JPM Group of Companies which is made up of JPM Dollars Bureau De Change Ltd, JPM Consulting Ltd, JPM Oil & Gas Ltd,and Gods Heritage Integrated Ltd.Presently. I am the 1st Vice Chairman of Canal Community Development Authority at Ilamoshe Estate Oke-Afa Ejigbo for the past 5 years and the 1st Vice Chairman of Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria,(ABCON) South-West Zone.Religiously, I am a catholic faithful; a member of Knight of Saint Mulumba, Idimu sub
council.I am also a member of CMO(Catholic Men Organization of Nigeria) and presently the Chairman of Local Organization Council(LOC) Bishop Martins Adewale Football Competition among all Catholic church in Lagos Archdiocese.

Sir, what inspired you to go into politics?

Well, I believe that every human being is a political animal. But what really inspired me the most is my love for service to humanity.I so much believe in giving back to the society no matter how painful it may seem to be.That is why even before I joined politics, I single-handedly graded two roads in my street for the people of the community. I am an extrovert and that is why as a Banker, I moved into marketing in order to meet people. I fully joined politics during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s Second tenure bid in 2015 when I was invited by a friend to attend Peoples’ Democratic party meeting. During that period, a body called Ndigbo United Association had a platform where all the Igbo men and women aspiring for any political position in Lagos state can come; form a group and showcase their abilities. So with that platform, I started having interest in politics.

What were your challenges contesting for such position in another man’s land in your first term?

It was not easy at all.But with God, what people may see as impossible was possible. Initially, they refused to give me
ticket to run for Lagos state House of Assembly primaries because of what I may called fear of unknown but with God and the support from my wife as a yoruba woman, I had an edge to scale through after much deliberations by the elders/leaders of the land.Also, the aspirant I contested with was another challenge because he is a son of the soil and the son of a party leader. So, it was very challenging and tough as I did not have a godfather to push me through.

Mrs Roseline Idimogu receives Award from Lagos State Medicine Dealers Association on behalf of her husband, Hon. Jude Idimogu

But finally, it was a miracle.

Can you highlight some of your achievements so far?

Yes! immediately I was sworn in, I swung into action by sponsoring about 400 students in computer training in my
constituency.There are presently about 9 buses plying the roads which I used to empower people in my constituency. I have always supported the less privileged financially.Seeing the level of poverty among the youths,I also empowered over 20 indigent youths in my constituency.In order to tune down the number of unemployed youths,I gave over 30 unemployed youths job in Lagos State,donated a brand new 500KVA Transformer to the people of Ilamuse Estate community. I have attracted so many roads in this constituency within 3 years of my representation among which are:- Nwachukwu Drive, off palace way, Okota, Olusesi Street, Ifoshi Road, from Iyana-Ejigbo to Oriniowo last bus stop,Egbe/Idimu road (after bridge to Jakande Gate-Both side),Egbe road (from NNPC to Egbe bridge-both side),Coker bus stop/Lafenwa/Moshalashi Street, Peter Agha/Allimi Bada,Baale Shekoni Street, Chivita Avenue is not left out, which is the major cause of gridlock at Canoe/Kudirat Adenikan Street, was also given a facelift. Even some of critics agreed that he have given the constituency a massive face-lift in terms of representation.
I facilitated two quality Boreholes in Ejigbo and Isolo respectively. Before now, the aforementioned areas where the
boreholes are sited were in desperate need of portable water before my intervention.It is also my passion even before I was elected to give education a facelift. In the light of this,I bought and distributed Jamb/GCE Forms to students in my constituency to alleviate the burden on their parents.The Indigent students are not left out in my magnanimity,I gave full scholarship to students at the tertiary level in my constituency and host of others.
I have made immense contributions to issues on the floor of the house, oversight duties, sponsored motion (like the
relocation of Mile 12 market), committee duties and most especially feasible projects and infrastructures attracted to my constituency has transformed the land scape of the Oshodi/Isolo.

Have you experienced any intimidation by your colleagues as only Igbo man in Lagos state House of Assembly?

Infact, I feel great, elated, and encouraged.I believe God has used me to make history in not only Lagos State but entire south-western region because this is the first time a non-indegene is elected into state House of Assembly throughout the South-Western region. Even though I was allowed to marry my heartthrob from the land and had lived in Lagos state for the past 30 years; I still believe this position I am today is made possible through the concerted effort of the elders of the land. “You know you can’t do it alone, you need elders around you; elders that will speak on your behalf to their associates and acquaintances. Such elders you come across by doing good and being hardworking. When they have seen your quality and your determination to really serve for the benefits of the people, you will definitely have it”. I must give kudos to them for their support. Yorubas are nice and happy people to associate and work with. Every Yoruba man or woman is very accommodating; they don’t discriminate. That is why I make sure I don’t disappoint my people.This will also serve as an eye-opener to men and women who intend to aspire for any political position in any foreign land in the country.

What can you say about Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode?

My governor is a great achiever,goal-getter, and a developer. Let me borrow the words of Chief Bola Tinubu to call him ” A WONDER BOY”. The Governor of Lagos State by my own assessment is the Governor General of Nigeria. I say so for a very good reason. It is not a question of age of the occupant of that office or his tenure. It is simply an attestation to the fact that the economy of Lagos is about the summation of the economies of thirty States in Nigeria. One will be deceiving himself not to recognize that fact. I will say that he has surpassed every imagination; he is a fantastic man. He is indeed taking Lagos state to another level. I give kudos to him.

Honourable, some people call you Mr Nigeria, how come that name?

(Laughs), I have always believed in my country. I have always known that Nigeria will get better one day. I believe that your own is your own; the earlier you make your country work, the better for you. As you make your bed so you will lie on it. So, when I was building my house in my community here in Lagos, my workers and I will always eat together everyday but before we eat, we must recite the National Anthem and Pledge. At a time, people from neighbourhood joined us. It got to a time that people will come across me on the road and call me MR NIGERIA. That is how the name came about.

Sir, now that you won a return APC ticket, are you sure of winning other parties?

Thank you very much.I Hon.Jude Chukwuemeka Idimogu is a grassroots man, a political mobilizer and loved by everybody both young and old. We have earlier talked more about my achievements in the past and present.I am one man who does not wait for even a minute to implement my plans to produce positive results for any assignment given to me. If you witnessed all my consultation meetings and campaigns at the local government and wards, both youths and aged cherished me and they were all calling on me to continue the good work.My constituency needs a grassroots man; pillar of the masses because Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II needs a grassroots representative and a vibrant voice.I am a saleable candidate which a progressive party like APC needs.I am not exaggerating. I am a grassroots man. I have worked, at least am with my constituents 24/7, sun or rain. Unlike what was applicable in the past whereby our representative disappears once elected only to come back when another election draws near.The Igbo association has also given me their mandate support for re-election during the just concluded Igbo Day held at National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos. So, I am confident i will win in 2019.


Hon. Jude Idimogu and wife in a group picture with Ohaneze Ndigbo during the Igbo Day in Lagos

What is your message to the good people of Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II?

My People should know that we need proactive continuity at this time and should not be bought over with money as it has always played out in every election period.They should look out for the most popular and grounded candidate who has been giving them voice in the House of Assembly; the man that will always open his gate to the masses and not a representative we cannot reach. I know expectations of the people of my constituency,am assuring them I will continue to work round the clock to ensure that my constituency is transformed and residents can feel the impact positively.Thank you.

By: Grassroots Publishers

South-East Governors To Buhari: “Mr President We Are Grateful Sir” …South-East Governors want Second Niger Bridge ready in 24 months

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South-East Governors To Buhari: “Mr President We Are Grateful Sir” …South-East Governors want Second Niger Bridge ready in 24 months

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]outh-East Governors’ Forum on Wednesday appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that the construction period of the Second Niger Bridge be reduced from 42 months to 24 months. Chairman of the forum and Governor of Ebonyi, Mr Dave Umahi, made the appeal when he spoke to State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with the president at the State House, Abuja.

Umahi stated that members of the forum were at the Villa on behalf South-East people to thank the president for the award of the N206 billion contract of the Bridge. He said: “we came to thank the president on behalf of South-East for the award of the second Niger Bridge to Julius Berger at the sum of N206 billion.

“We understand that N7 billion has been paid as mobilization. “So, we came to ask the president if there is the possibility of paying up to 50 per cent of the sum and secure the other 50 per cent as bond.”

According to him, this is expected so that we can sleep with our two eyes closed and be assured that the job will not be abandoned. “We also asked that the construction period be reduced from 42 months to 24 months. We made it clear to Julius Berger that it is achievable. “We are also asking for economic free trade zone in Eyimba in Abia and he promised to come and commission it; the license has been given.

The governor disclosed that the meeting also deliberated on the state of Enugu international airport, saying that the president was urged to ensure the completion of the cargo section of the airport and extension of the runway. “Of course, we talked about the geometric power plant in Aba and we asked him to assist in resolving whatever the issues are so that power will be deployed to the industrial clusters in Aba and environs.

“We reminded him that the Enugu state government has done quite a lot on the issue of relocating major infrastructure that has been obstructing smooth operations of lives. We requested that he should take over the compensations of the affected lands.

“And of course, the issue of gas distribution should be linked to the five eastern states, to the industrial clusters so as to boost economic activities,’’ he added.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, who also spoke to the correspondents after the meeting, said the visit by the leaders was remarkable.

He debunked the impression that the Federal Government was not doing enough for South-East people.

He, therefore, pledged that the zone would continue to be accorded their appropriate place in the scheme of things.

Mustapha reminded the people that their political investment in the re-election of Buhari in 2019 election would determine their fate in 2023.

He said: “we received very high-powered delegation today led by the Deputy President of the Senate and three of their governors and a deputy governor, and the Director-General of Forum of South-East governors.

“I think it is a remarkable visit because they came essentially to thank the president over the major activities that have taken place in the South-East. “They appreciate the fact that the second Niger Bridge was a paper issue in the last five, six decades. “They are convinced that the decision to complete the Niger Bridge is real; contract has been awarded by this government for N206 billion.

“It is a mark of appreciation for the leadership that President Muhammadu Buhari is providing for this country.

“The South-East is an integral part of this country; it must be accorded its appropriate place in the scheme of things and we believe strongly that this particular government has extended its hands of friendship to the South East.”

He expressed hope that South-East leaders would continue to cooperate with the government to ensure the development of their people and bringing prosperity, peace and tranquility to the area.

The SGF reiterated that the Buhari administration would continue to do everything possible to ensure speedy development of the zone as well as other parts of the country.

On whether Buhari solicited the votes of the South-East at the meeting, Mustapha said:  “this obviously might not be most appropriate time.

“You remember there was a programme in the South-East where the president asked me to represent him and I flew the kite by telling the Southeast states that their quickest and easiest means to presidency is to support Buhari’s second term.

“This means that they can short-circuit the period in terms of only having him there for another four years.

“Whatever they do in 2019 will determine what will happen thereafter because politics is a game of numbers and it is like a cooperative society. “Whatever you bring as an investment when dividends are going to be shared, you will get proportionate with your investment and your investment in politics is what you bring to the table.

“I urge the Southeast to look at this matter seriously that every time we have a presidency in Nigeria, it is negotiated in several ways.

“It is either negotiated by votes or what you bring to the table and you must negotiate from the position of strength. You can’t negotiate from the point of weakness.”

Magun: The Yoruba charm that prevents extra-marital affairs

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Magun: The Yoruba charm that prevents extra-marital affairs

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]omewhere in the heap of human interest stories are strange tales of magun that condemns a cheating wife or woman and her lover to public ridicule or death. Magun is a charm that originates from the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria. It literally means “do not climb.” Magun has been used for centuries to catch a wife who has an extra-marital affair or to put a promiscuous woman in check.

Some parents are known to put magun on their daughters to discourage pre-marital sex and ward off rapists.In most circumstances, the charm is put on a woman without her knowledge. A stick of broom or thread is usually placed on the floor for a woman to unknowingly walk over it. Once she works over the thread or broom stick, the charm takes its effect.
Now there are different sorts of magun. The three most famous ones are;
1) a woman and her lover stick like glue during the process of sex. The man cannot detach himself from the woman. This sometimes leads to death and in some cases a public humiliation of the stuck couple.
2) In another variation when a man sleeps with a woman who has magun on her, he starts to crow like a rooster. It is said that the man would crow for three times and by the third time he would end up dead.
3) Another popular variation of magun is that of the man somersaulting three times. Just like the chicken magun, when the man somersaults the third time he ends up dead.
As crazy as magun sounds, there are many stories of the charm dooming lovers. In 2015, in Cross River State, a man was stuck inside his friend’s wife.

Police Arrests Female Robber, 10 Others In Benue, Recovers Arms

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Police Arrests Female Robber, 10 Others In Benue, Recovers Arms

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Benue state Police Command on Wednesday said it has arrested 11 armed robbers in different gangs terrorising innocent peoplein Benue. The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ene Okon stated this in a press statement signed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP. Moses Joel Yamu.

The Commissioner who outlined recent arrests by the command said, the command arrested a gang of five armed robbers including a female, terrorising motorist/commuters along Vandeikya-Adikpo road.

The CP said the robbers were arrested on the 14th November, 2018, by men of Operation Zenda at about 1100 following a tip off. He said the arrested gang members include Mnguember Apuu ‘F’ 22yrs (Armourer); Anger Kunav ‘M’ 20yrs, Iorungwa Hywakaa ‘M’ 22yrs, Fanen Yev ‘M’ 25yrs and Igbadoo Sule ‘M’ 24yrs (Gang Leader).

The CP also disclosed that Locally Fabricated Guns, one expended Cartridge, three 9mm live ammunition, Five Cutlasses, One small Axe, Two  polythene bags of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, three  black jackets and assorted charms being used for their operations were recovered from them.

The police also recovered other items suspected to have been robbed from innocent citizens including new assorted cloths, eight handsets, one lapt and one Motorcycle

The statement said the suspects  confessed to be the ones robbing people on that axis as the lady among them usually keeps their arms after every operation.

“Also on 15th November, 2018 at about 0945hrs, Men of the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) while on stop and search at Sati Agirigi Village Katsina Ala-Takum road sighted and suspected two persons on a Bajaj Motorcycle approaching them.

“The suspects quickly turn in an attempt to escape but were given a chase. They dropped their handbag containing Fifty Five (55) ammunition of various calibres and some dangerous charms. Effort to arrest the fleeing suspects in progress.

“On the 19/11/2018 at about 1530hrs, men of the Operation Zenda based on a tip off arrested some armed men numbering Six.

They include Akighir Tyolumun 18yrs (Gang leader), Iorlumun Kyanya 18yrs, Chia Joshua 18yrs, Tevershima Terhemba 25yrs, Peter Terlumun 20yrs and Tarkighir Emmanuel 18yrs all of Ugbema in Buruku LGA.

They were caught with one single barrel Gun, six Army camouflage uniform with  three caps, eight Hand Sets, a pair of shoes, one Phone charger, a torchlight and a small pink coloured bag.

“During investigation, the suspects confessed to a gang of nine terrorising unsuspecting members of the Public along Gboko-Ugbema-Katsina Ala axis and dispossessing them of their valuables.

The CP saod effort is ongoing to arrest the remaining members of the gang.

While the Commissioner restated the Command’s commitment to rid the state of all forms of criminality, he thanked Benue people for their cooperation in the fight against crime.

Didier Drogba confirms retirement from football

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Didier Drogba confirms retirement from football

[dropcap]C[/dropcap]helsea legend Didier Drogba has confirmed his retirement from playing, ending “an amazing 20 years”. The Ivory Coast striker, 40, had two spells at Chelsea, scoring 164 goals in 381 games and winning four Premier Leagues and the 2012 Champions League.

BBC reports that he spent the last 18 months of his career with US side Phoenix Rising, the club he co-owns.

Drogba had been expected to retire after the United Soccer League Cup final earlier this month. His last game finished in a 1-0 defeat by Louisville City in the final of the United States’ second tier.

“After 20 years, I have decided to put an end to my playing career,” he told BBC World Service’s Sportshour. “It’s the best way to end, helping some young talent to develop. “To give something back to the game was the best way to finish as I have learned so much in the game.”

Drogba did not play top-flight football until the age of 23, when Guingamp signed him from Ligue 2 Le Mans in January 2002.

He moved to Marseille 18 months later – and the following year completed a reported £24m move to Chelsea, where he had the best spell of his career.

Drogba won three Premier League titles in his first eight years at Chelsea, including in each of his first two seasons in England as well as four FA Cups and two League Cups.

He also won the Premier League Golden Boot in 2006-07 and 2009-10.

He left on a high, scoring the winning penalty in the Champions League final shootout against Bayern Munich.

Drogba then spent six months with Shanghai Shenhua and a year and a half with Galatasaray before returning to Chelsea. He scored seven goals in 2014-15, winning a fourth Premier League title and a third League Cup, leaving the club as their fourth highest scorer of all time.

In 2015, he joined Major League Soccer side Montreal Impact and then became player-owner of Phoenix Rising.

He scored 65 times in 105 caps for the Ivory Coast, playing in three World Cups and being named African Footballer of the Year twice.

Jonathan: I was pressed to reject 2015 election result …‘Okonjo-Iweala, Adoke, Chidoka, Dudafa advised me not to accept defeat’

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Jonathan: I was pressed to reject 2015 election result …‘Okonjo-Iweala, Adoke, Chidoka, Dudafa advised me not to accept defeat’

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ormer President Goodluck Jonathan has revealed how he was pressured not to accept defeat in the 2015 election. Noting that the election was laden with some irregularities, including the difficulty he faced before he could vote in his native Otuoke, Bayelsa State home, Jonathan said he conceded defeat principally because it was his belief that his ambition should not lead to loss of lives and property as it was the case in previous elections.

He said contrary to some narratives that members of the international community prevailed on him to accept his defeat and congratulate the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the decision came naturally to him as he was aware a day before the announcement of the results that his party was bound to lose.

The revelations are contained in the former President’s book, “My Transition Hours”, which was presented in Abuja yesterday on his 61st birthday. The book records the last-minute intrigues and political manoeuvres that defined his last moments with top aides and ministers in the Presidential Villa and the relief he felt after he congratulated President Buhari in a telephone conversation.

Jonathan said he rebuffed the advice by the then Minister of Finance  and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala; Attorney-General of the Federation and Justice Minister Mohammed Bello Adoke; Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka, who was a compere at the book launch; and his Senior Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs, Warpamowei Dudafa.

He writes: “They were recommending sundry alternatives, but I was quiet in the midst of their discussions. I hugged my thought, figuring out how to do that which was best for the country. My personal interest was receding rapidly and the interest of Nigeria looming large. I excused myself and left the sitting room. I walked into my study. Even there, my mantra was a strong circle around me, supporting and comforting me.  Let the country survive. Let democracy survive. My political ambition is not worth people being ‘soaked in blood.”

On how and why he called to concede victory to Buhari, he wrote: “More results flowed in and I could not wait anymore. The announcement of the final result could take issues out of all our hands.  It was time for me to take action and bring peace to the nation. I felt I was destined by God  at that point in time to inject the peace serum and douse the palpable tension in the country.

“I reached out for his telephone and placed a call through the State House operators at about 4:45pm. A peace I had never felt since my political sojourn descended on me. It showed me where I had been in the past sixteen years and where I was then. I smiled at the thought of what I was about to do. I waited calmly for the person at the end of my call to answer.

Buhari: “Hello Your Excellency.”

Me: “Your Excellency, how are you”

Buhari: “I am alright, Your Excellency.”

Me: “Congratulations.”

Buhari: “Thank you very much Your Excellency.”

With that, the deed was done. Peace like the flow of a soothing river enveloped his heart, Jonathan said.

He continues: “For several seconds, the line was seized by the loudest silence I have ever known. Then we had a brief discussion. I could sense his relief too. He knew what could have been. Here is a man who had contested three times and lost. Maybe my gesture humbled him against his expectations because he thanked me and we talked about the handing over processes.

Elsewhere all over Africa, Asia and other parts of the world, countless deaths have been recorded on the scores of elections and power disputes. l mentioned Cote d’Ivoire earlier, where people died in their thousands during post-election violence. A similar scenario had unfolded in Kenya. African nations are more prone to post-election violence than other parts of the world. Only very few African nations have not experienced post elections violence on a very grand scale or some bitter power tussle fed by tnbal or ethnic sentiments.

I hung up the phone, confident that my decision was right for Nigeria and would probably have a great impact on Africa. This may well be the beginning of a new perspective to power; a perspective which places national interest above  personal preference. It should not always be about winning.

“After my coversation with Muhammadu Buhari, which lifted my spirit greatly, I felt better and lighter; it was time to break the news to my Ministers “Id mdes. I wandered back into the living room. These are people I came to know over a period of time. I anticipated what their response would be.

“In my new found calm, I stood before them and told them what I had just done. The elections were over. I had called and congratulated Muhammadu Buhari on his victory. It was time for all of us to move on. Stunned silence greeted the room for some time and after they overcame their shock, they all congratulated me.

“My Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka, sought my permission to tweet my phone conversation with Buhari. I obliged and he did. The country was no longer waiting for the declaration of the election results. The nationwide tension automatically dissipated as through a red hot piece of iron had been dipped in a bowl of water. Thereafter, I addressed the nation.”

Comptroller Mohammed Uba Garba continues anti-smuggling war at Seme Border

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Comptroller Mohammed Uba Garba continues anti-smuggling war at Seme Border
Comptroller Mohammed Uba Garba
CAC, Seme Customs Command

[dropcap]C[/dropcap]omptroller Mohammed Uba Garba, the Former Controller, Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone A, Ikeja, now the present Customs Area Controller in charge of Seme Border who by any matrix, can be called an anti-smuggling czar, has taken battle to the Smugglers den at Seme Border immediately he assumed office. He vowed to stop smugglers from operating at Seme Border, because he knows that smugglers are economic saboteurs who are bent on circumventing the law.

He has always held on to the philosophy that you can never succeed as an anti-smuggling officer by mere saying smuggling is bad and smugglers are dangerous to our national economic growth. You must try to show example by fighting it head-on and putting your life on the line to show that you can die for this course. This anti-smuggling czar whose antecedents are record breaking at Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone A, Ikeja when it comes to Customs operations wondered aloud that while a good number of well meaning Nigerians are appreciative of government efforts to rid the nation of corruption in all its ramifications, some smugglers are unrepentantly bent on circumventing the lofty mission for their selfish interest. A believer in optimum delivery wherever he serves. Compt. Mohammed Garba, enumerated the obvious consequences of smuggling to the nation’s economy and her citizenry especially when it has brought unspeakable grief and sorrows to those caught and members of their families.

One thing going for Compt.Uba is perhaps in the history of his Customs Operations, the man has remained true to his pledge to ensure that journalists are briefed on the activities of his command on monthly basis. This is alien to most of the Area Controllers who are cowards and will quickly tell some journalists that “I don’t want to be blowing my trumpet so that Abuja will not think I want to take their job”. This officer of note has made the fourth Estate of the realm proud than ever in this regard. In doing this, he has chronicled his stewardship right from his days at the Zone ‘C’ in Owerri to keep Doubting Thomases at bay. He capped it up in Zone ‘A’ if you must know.


President Buhari and Customs Area Controller, Seme Command, Comptroller Mohammed Uba during the inauguration of Seme Krake Joint Border Post

Comptroller Mohammed Uba, the former Customs Area Controller, CAC, Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone ‘A’ of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has served at different capacities in the Service. Comptroller Uba outstanding achievements and rising profile on the job made him an exceptional Customs officer. He joined the Service in 1988, where he served in defunct Gongola State Command, as the OC Border Patrol. He worked at that Command for five years, after which he was posted to Kano in June, 1993. He served in Kano till December the same 1993. While in Kano, he was the sectional OC Baggage, at the Aminu Kano International Airport. In December 1993, he was posted to Ogun Command, where he was made the OC Surveillance at Idiroko, the border between Nigeria and Republic of Benin. He served there till 1996, and was sent to Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, as Officer in charge of Shed ‘4’. His duty there was examination of cargo. In July 1997, Uba was again posted to Kano,  where he worked as Baggage Coordinator at airport. There, he was Coordinator at Nigerian Airways NAHCO shed till 2004.

In March, 2004, Uba was posted to Onne Command in Port Harcourt, as OC Clean Report of Inspection, CRI, a document necessary for clearing of cargo. In 2005, at Onne Command, Uba became Assistant Comptroller, and was posted as officer in charge of Federal Ocean Terminal, FOT. In April 2008, he was sent to Customs Headquarters, tariff and trade unit, but later posted to Lilypond, as OC Valuation, till 2009. The same 2009, Uba became Deputy Comptroller, DC. So, in 2010, he was sent to Kirikiri Lighter Terminal as DC in charge of SDV Terminal.

The Journey did not end there. In 2011, he was posted to Tincan Command, as DC export, where he served till 2013. In the same 2013, he was transferred to Port Harcourt Area-1, and was redeployed the same year to Ogun Command as DC in charge of Import, where he served till 2015 when he became Controller. As the job demands, he was posted back to Headquarters in 2015 as Comptroller in charge of tariff.  The same year, he was redeployed as Comptroller posting till October 2016, meaning, he didn’t spend a year when he was posted as Comptroller Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone ‘C’ Owerri, in charge of five Eastern States and 6 South/South States (11 States together). In May 2017, he assumed office as CAC of FOU Zone ‘A’, Lagos, where he has been chasing smugglers day and night and it was based on his outstanding records in anti-smuggling activities as well as revenue generation in the history of Federal Operations Units that earn him his recent position as the Customs Area Controller in Garba has generated the sum of One Billion, fifty million, eight hundred and sixty eight thousand, five hundred and seventy naira, twenty kobo only (N1, 050, 868, 570.20) for A charge of  Seme Border.

Comptroller Uba during his visit to Ambassador Kayode Oguntuase, in Benin Republic

He has the highest and outstanding records in anti-smuggling activities as well as revenue generation in the history of FOU.  under his watch the command seized over 100 exotic cars from private homes, over N2.7billion wild life parts (pangolin scales) and swiftly arrested two Chinese suspects without any fear of intimidation.

The Anti- Smuggling unit of the Command also made a total of one hundred and twenty (120) seizures with a duty paid value of ninety five million, seventy thousand and five naira only (N95, 070, 005.00) for the months under review. Seme Border Enforcement unit  has recorded a lot of seizures, among which are: 14 exotic vehicles, BMW 5 series, Toyota Venza, Mercedes Benz ML 350, Lexus RX 300 among others with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over seventy million Naira. A total of 4, 504 bags of Parboiled rice were also seized with DPV of N81, 162,080 (equivalent to 7 trailer trucks); other items like frozen poultry products, vegetable oil, and sugar  worth over Thirteen million Naira were also seized “Three suspects arrested in connection to some of the seizures are currently under investigation and possible prosecution.

With  Comptroller Uba on board, the reinvigorated anti-smuggling unit of the command is yielding positive results as drug traffickers and immigrants who use illegal routes are being apprehended and handed over to various security agencies for onward investigation and prosecution. The commands helmsman has always ensured synergy and collaboration in executing the core function among security agencies operating at the border.

His commitment and doggedness has earned him the Chairman of Joint Border Security Meeting (JBSM) and he played a major role in the setting up of an ad-hoc Joint Taskforce from the JBSM platform which is headed by the Commanding Officer 243 Battalion, as  internal monitoring mechanism to checkmate the menace of proliferation of checkpoints along the corridor.

The deployment of this anti-smuggling czar to Seme Border is welcome development as we all know that he will very perform well in terms of revenue generation, anti-smuggling drive, legitimate trade facilitation and the security of the nation through the effective manning of the border and he will  imbibe the culture of transparency and professionalism while discharging his responsibilities.

 

By: Grassroots Publishers

 

 

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