news
Ex-Agitators Leadership Forum Tackles Ndiomu Over Presidential Amnesty Programme Crisis
..Says, Traditional Rulers now made themselves as praise singers of PAP
The Chairman of First Phase Ex-Agitator’s Leadership Forum, Bayelsa state Chapter, Charles Kurobo, has said that despite recent threats by the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd), aggrieved beneficiaries of the amnesty programme will continue to speak until issues relating to misappropriation bedeviling the programme are uncovered.
Mr. Korubo stated in Yenagoa while reacting to a statement in which the PAP Interim Administrator warned that those duly captured as PAP beneficiaries who are taking part in spreading false narratives against him and the amnesty office will be dealt with in accordance with the extant laws of the programme.
Explaining further, Korubo said that the enquiries of ex-agitators into the anomalies of the amnesty programme is not intended witch-hunt any individual as the PAP Interim Administrator makes it seem but to draw the attention of relevant authorities to how ex-agitators are denied access to vital information that will help them achieve economic integration and build their potentials to generate or gain employment.
He also alleged that if not for the support of Monarchs from the Niger Delta region who are supposed to be catalyst for human capital and social development in the Niger Delta, Ndiomu wouldn’t have chosen to issue threat to well meaning beneficiaries of the programme who genuinely making contributions on how he can better improve and achieve the mandates of the programme.
He said “We will continue to air our concerns as we possibly can till attention is drawn to the precarious nature and style of the current administration of the PAP marred by defilement in the quest for social and economic integration in the phase of human capacity development.”
“Our enquiries are not ill-intended as the PAP makes it seems but the unexpected defenses, created to deny us access to vital information with respect to economic integration and why we still lack the potentials to generate or gain employment and develop better use of our resources through the spread of technological knowledge as promised by the program when we gave up arms in 2009 has remained invincible and we will not stop asking or be forced to silence even if a serving or retired military general is involved.”
“We complained of misappropriation, denial of benefits and other entitlements or cause for review where necessary and the interim Administrator of the PAP, General Ndiomu is quick to put the integrity and credibility of the Nigerian banks to question, when we all know that it is impossible to run two accounts with your BVN even if it’s just an alphabet missing from any of the details linked to the BVN!
How did a digital portal created for a program with about thirty thousand (30,000) beneficiaries with a minimal ratio of digital and ICT knowledge, aid the PAP’s office under the current leadership to the discovery of the alarming figures allegedly discovered and steps that were taken to not just blocking but also bringing to book the banks, its officials and the beneficiaries criminated in the allegations?”
“It is only clear that Ex-agitators ignorant or lacking access to the portal are by general Ndiomu’s standard not worthy of the benefits from the PAP even when the affected were captured since 2009, using such as an ace to exhibit calumny.”
“The challenges before the leadership of the Ex-agitators forum is shocking! Having to manage those who have been denied training, empowerment and recently, monthly stipend, are always on our hills day and night and in most cases don’t see reasons when we say the PAP has maintained deaf ears but the best way forward is through peaceful resolution and we will continue to toe that Path.
“We have waited and waited but the disconnect between the Amnesty office, its coordinator and the ex-agitators’ leadership is getting wider by each passing day and sadly, unwary Kings from the region, who are supposed to be catalyst for human capital and social development in the Niger Delta, have chosen the position of where the monkey prefers banana to money when presented with both not knowing the much needed bananas can be bought with the money!
“Gullible and hungry kings from the region with beclouded civility made themselves praise singers and media arsenals of the PAP where concerns are glaring, clustering Gen. Ndiomu and using him as a platform to expose their timidity and advertise ignorance.
“No sane father will ignore his own child or prefer the place of his child as in the case of some of our Kings who have so attached themselves to the crumbs from the table of the current interim Administrator. It’s indeed a shame but there’s, not ours.
“Who knows, they may have been blindfolded with, as unwary as they are, to the idea that they will constitute the body of another impending scam aimed at the so-called N1.5b scheme recently publish to create an impression of sensitive activities at the PAP’s office.”
“Such kings identified with irresponsibility, incompetence and gross neglect of social, political and economic development of people from their kingdoms and the region large, like Ex-agitators in the case of the PAP can not and should not be trusted.”
“The naked lies of the PAP under Gen. Ndiomu has further revealed his desperation to remain the interim Administrator and continue to sabotage the focus of the presidency instead of executing the blue print of the program that will impact the desired positivity while fostering a peaceful coexistence amongst genuine stakeholders, not some those adapted Kings who seek relevance amidst mediocrity and falsehood.”
“What is right is right. Gen. Barry Ndiomu should not be ill-advised as we have see him to have derailed. Take President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies for example, even his enemies are now singing a different song because the direction is obvious and so are those in elective positions and appointments aligning with such policies for a desired future Nigeria and it’s citizens so longed for. Why then should an office directly under the presidency be allowed to navigate backwards or opposite?”
news
Lagos Govt. unveils 72-hour Cultural Weekend, pushes for economic growth
The Lagos State Government, in its continued effort to promote cultural heritage and deepen tourism footprints, has concluded plans to host the Lagos Cultural Weekend.
A three-day cultural extravaganza, scheduled to take place across multiple strategic locations, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Freedom Park, National Theatre, Badagry Heritage Museum, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, and Tafawa Balewa Square, from November 14th to November 16th, 2025.
This weekend-long celebration will spotlight the richness of Nigeria’s traditions through curated events that blend history, culture, and local artistry.
Speaking on the initiative, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.
“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.
“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.
”On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.
“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.
Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.
Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.
The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.
Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.
Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large.
Lagos Cultural Mission….Preserving Our Heritage, Advancing The Future
Politics
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, has congratulated Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on her resounding victory in the just-concluded by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a goodwill message issued by him, he described the victory as “a historic moment for the Remo people, coming at a time when the constituency yearns for a leader with vision, courage, and genuine commitment to service.”
He noted that the outcome of the election was an attestation to the trust and confidence reposed in Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji by the people, adding that her sterling qualities, integrity, accessibility, and compassion for the grassroots had endeared her to the electorate.
“The overwhelming support you garnered at the polls is proof that you are the right voice at the right time to carry the aspirations of Remo to the national stage,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the by-election followed the painful demise of the late Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (Ijaya), Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji’s emergence symbolizes the continuity of purposeful representation. He expressed confidence that she would not only sustain the legacy of her predecessor but also surpass it with new energy, innovative ideas, and progressive leadership.
The Adron Group Chairman further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and compassion for the Member-Elect as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure will usher in meaningful development, economic empowerment, and greater opportunities for the people of Remo Federal Constituency.
society
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
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