Connect with us

news

​Former Senate President Mark, Former Speaker Tambuwal, Others Collected N17b Bribe To Pass 2015 Budget – Okonjo-Iweala

Published

on

Former Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iwella, has alleged that former President of the Senate, David Mark; former Speaker of the House of Representatives and now Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal; and other members of National Assembly collected a N17 billion bribe before the 2015 Budget was passed.

Okonjo-Iweala, who served under former President Obasanjo, made the shocking revelation known in her new book: “Fighting Corruption is Dangerous: The Story Behind the Headlines.”

Okonjo-Iwela said this on page 80 of the book as Twitted and pictured by the spokesman of the President Buhari Campaign Organisation, Festus Keyamo (SAN).
The former Minister said the bribe money, which was added into the budget was N20 billion initially, but was reduced to N17 billion.

She added that the N17 billion was padded into budget as election expenses.
She said: “By the time we presented budget on December 16, 2014, the oil prices has further fallen down to $58 per barrel. We were prepared and knew we had to trigger the additional expenditure and revenue measure in 2015 to make the budget work. This would be tough, given that we had entered election year. “Indeed, legislators initially refused to accept pay cuts to their regular N150 billion budget, despite dwindling revenues.
But, eventually agreed to 13 percent cut against backdrop of Ministers accepting voluntary 50 percent to their basic salaries. “In a tough session with the National Assembly ad-hoc committee on budget (made up chairs of Finance committee and Appropriation Committee of both chambers and other leaders of National Assembly), an additional N20 billion was reintroduced as election expenses for the National Assembly members.

“We insisted that the amount should be dropped because it nullified the 13 percent cut to their statutory budget, but managed N20 billion figure by only N3 billion to N17. This become the price to have 2015 budget passed

news

APC Ondo North Primary: Reports Show ATM in Early Lead

Published

on

Reports from the field in Ondo North Senatorial District indicate that voters, officers, and agents at the voting centers across the wards have put Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM) in the lead.

According to the current figures collated from the centers, ATM is polling with wider margins of votes

Going by these figures, ATM is poised to win all the six Local Government in the Senatorial Districtt.

We urge all party members and supporters to remain peaceful as collation continues.

Continue Reading

news

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele Hosts Ondo North Aspirant Abdul Tunji Mohammed, Backs Grassroots Development Agenda

Published

on

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele recently hosted Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), a prominent aspirant for the Ondo North senatorial seat.

The meeting highlighted a strategic alignment between progressive forces, with both leaders emphasizing a shared vision for grassroots development and legislative excellence.

Senator Bamidele, a respected figure in Nigerian politics, is recognized for his contributions to national cohesion and impactful policymaking, drawing on his experience as a legal luminary and human rights activist.

Chief Mohammed, an astute businessman and dedicated grassroots mobilizer, has made a notable impact on Ondo North through his philanthropic work and commitment to constituents’ welfare. His approach blends corporate discipline, economic ingenuity, and a deep concern for people—qualities that have reshaped the region’s political narrative.

The two leaders discussed the district’s critical needs, exploring avenues for socioeconomic growth, legislative reform, and stronger community integration. Senator Bamidele stressed the importance of supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a sentiment echoed by Chief Mohammed.

The convergence of Chief Mohammed’s vision with Senator Bamidele’s legislative experience offers hope for Ondo North. This synergy between grassroots ambition and seasoned mentorship points to a promising future for the district’s representation in the Senate. With ATM’s drive and the guidance of leaders like Senator Bamidele, Ondo North is positioned for progress and transformative governance.

Continue Reading

news

2027 Ondo North Senate: ATM secures Backing of Monarchs, Chiefs

Published

on

APC Senatorial aspirant for Ondo North, Abdul Tunji Mohammed, popularly known as ATM, received a resounding endorsement on Thursday during a high-profile visit to Ikare-Akoko.

The endorsement came from the Olukare of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Akadiri Momoh IV, the Owa Ale of Ikare, His Royal Majesty Oba Adeleke Adedoyin, and the Ikare Council of Chiefs, who described ATM as a credible son of the soil with the capacity to represent Ondo North effectively at the Senate.

Speaking at the palace, the Olukare commended ATM for his consistent engagement with the people and his track record in business and community development. “We have watched your contributions to Ondo North over the years. You are one of us, and we believe you have the experience and character to speak for our people in Abuja,” the monarch said.

The Owa Ale, in his remarks, stressed the need for unity and quality representation. He urge him to continue the help to the people at home that he’s doing. He urged other stakeholders to support aspirants with proven commitment to the district’s progress, noting that Ikare and Akoko land require strong voices at the National Assembly.

In his response, Abdul Tunji Mohammed thanked the monarchs and chiefs for their blessings and trust. He reaffirmed his commitment to prioritize infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and agricultural development if elected.

“Ikare is central to Ondo North, and your support strengthens my resolve to serve with integrity and results. I will not betray this trust. My campaign will remain issue-based, and my representation will reflect the hopes of our people,” ATM stated.

The visit was marked by prayers, cultural displays, and solidarity from party leaders, youth, and women groups across Ikare-Akoko.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending