Politics
“I shall run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anyone behind”- Gov.Ambode
Published
10 years agoon
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BEING THE INAUGURAL ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. AKINWUNMI AMBODE, GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE ON FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015 AT TAFAWA BALEWA SQUARE, LAGOS
PROTOCOL:
Today, I have just performed the sacred duty of oath-taking as the Governor of Lagos State. It has pleased GOD through the good people of Lagos State, that my destiny as a little boy, born from a humble background, on the 14th day of JUNE to become the 14th Governor of our great State, Lagos is being realised.
2 I am eternally grateful to all of you. To all Lagosians,
the young and elderly, widows, physically-challenged; girls and boys, and especially, the children; who followed our musical campaign with vigour; God bless you all.
3 Permit me to acknowledge and appreciate especially all the voters that voted for me; equally appreciate those that did not and also the people that did not exercise their franchise to vote at all. We are all winners. One of the instructive lessons from this last political campaign and election is for all politicians never to take our people for granted again. I would, more than ever before; take you, the good people of Lagos, along with me, in this journey of renewed hope and prosperity at all times.
4 My appreciation goes to all our elder statesmen and women including all our senior citizens. To all our religious leaders, I say thank you. All our Muslim leaders, Christians leaders and other faiths; your prayers for Lagos State did not go unanswered.
5 I must not fail to acknowledge all our civil society organisations. The students, civil servants, labour unions, artisans, professionals, corporate Lagos, the business community, thank you very much. To all Lagosians in diaspora, foreign residents and all other stakeholders; thank you for keeping faith in the potential greatness of our State.
6 From the bottom of my heart, I greet all our traditional rulers, our Royal Fathers, Kings, Chiefs and their wives. I thank you all, most especially, the Chairman; the State Council of Obas and Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, Oba of Lagos. We promise to continue to nurture our traditional institutions as part of our heritage.
7 To our Party Leaders and all members of our great party, The All Progressives Congress (APC); today belongs to you all. Our elected Officers, the three Distinguished Senators, Honourable Members of the House of Representatives and Members of the House of Assembly; congratulations and thank you.
8 And my Deputy; Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, thank you.
9 To my family, words are not enough; My mother, who is here today, thank you for being a very caring mother to me. All my uncles, brothers and sisters; I appreciate you. To my lovely wife, Bolanle, thank you so much for your sacrifices and perseverance. God bless you always. My children, friends and loved ones and supporters; I really appreciate the enormity of sacrifices, pain, prayers and efforts. I remain eternally grateful.
10 Lastly, I speak to the two people that have shaped the history of this State in the last sixteen (16) years.
11 You are focused, dogged and hard-working, you are a visioner par excellence. You are a bridge-builder. To our leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; you have laid an enduring foundation for what we are all building on today. When the history of the political economy of Nigeria is being written, surely it would be kind to you. Thank you so much.
To our Distinguished Senator, (Mrs.) Oluremi Tinubu; your support and commitment to our State and to me personally during the election is well appreciated.
12 To the out-going Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), you have fought the good fight. You came, you saw, you conquered. I have been at close quarters as a student, you as my teacher and mentor. On behalf of my family and other good people of Lagos; we say thank you. We appreciate you and your family.
13 EVERYBODY COUNTS
As we collectively face the challenge to make Lagos a better place to live in, we must recognize our strength in diversity. A common national identity where everybody counts. I shall run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anyone behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe or any other Status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos work for you.
14 THE NIGERIAN DREAM
Lagosians are hardworking people. Lagos is striving because of its undying entrepreneurial spirit. However we must realise that there are no short-cuts to success. To our youths, we must nurture good family values to succeed in any endeavour. I want our younger ones and children to draw some lessons from my story. Anyone of you can rise up to be the best you want to be. Your background and circumstances cannot be an obstacle to your dreams. In our country, particularly in Lagos, you can always succeed. This is the Nigerian dream where hard-work, courage, perseverance, persistence, merit and rewards pay. We must therefore embrace new thinking and be determined to succeed at all times. I am ready to encourage and nurture that dream in our children, youths and every hard-working Lagosian. We would reward merit, hard-work and loyalty to the State. The future is for those who dare to dream and find courage to pursue their dreams.
15 THE FUTURE IS NOW
We are all witnesses to the economic downturn and dwindling revenues at the national and state levels. The present economic situation has affected the financial profile of most states in the country.
The state is blessed that the foundation of its financial autonomy was designed and implemented by that visioner and our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Thus, the state has been partially shielded from the negative trend flowing from the federal level.
For us to sustain the progressive and radical transformation on-going in the state, we have to redouble our efforts on all fronts for our commitment to excellence. While we must be creative and innovative; we are not citizens until we become responsible tax payers. I want to assure all of us that I will make your taxes work for you. You will surely get a transparent and incorruptible government that will give you good value for your taxes paid.
Creativity is the most valuable asset in any public institution. Progressive governments must reward contributors of good ideas. Therefore, wherever practicable, we shall practise government by incentives and not government by enforcement. We shall implement creative ideas and concepts that reduce the cost of running government; ideas that make life simpler and happier for our people.
I, therefore, invite you all, to join hands with me, to offer new ideas that will pull more resources to cater for the poor and needy amongst us. This will be a compassionate government.
16 DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2012 – 2025)
In the spirit of continuity, I am committed to the State Development Plan (2012 – 2025). The plan is structured under four pillars; (1) Social Development and Security; (2) Infrastructural Development; (3) Economic Development and (4) Sustainable Environment.
The challenges we face today as a State, are good enough ingredients to bring out the best of all of us. Together, we shall push forward and not look back, with our hands firmly on the plough. We would work hard to tackle poverty, ignorance and social decadence in our State.
17 PUBLIC SECTOR REFORMS
As we all know, the best practices of yesterday may not be good enough for the products of today. In this sense, we shall embark on continuous reforms in the public service. I am determined to demonstrate that the government belongs to the citizens. You have put us here as servants to serve you and not you serving us. Today we are committed to that creed.
Moving forward, the Civil Service will be strengthened and made to respond to the needs of all citizens in the same manner, quality services are rendered in the private sector.
My administration is prepared to take the decisions needed to promote merit and professionalism. To restructure where required, eliminate poor Human Resource practices and accelerate the pace of reforms in the spirit of good governance.
I want to assure the business community and corporate Lagos that the ease of doing business in Lagos will be improved upon earnestly. Lagos is open for greater business; To this end, a new office of Overseas Affairs and Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL) shall be created under the Governor’s Office.
We want you to fly into Lagos, start your business, find your way; live, work and enjoy in Lagos.
As part of our reforms, a new Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment shall be established. This would specifically address the promise I made during the campaign on employment trust fund, labour exchange and entrepreneurship. This goal, we shall pursue vigorously.
Also, the Office of Civic Engagement shall be created under the Deputy Governor’s Office to strengthen and enhance our promise on government of inclusion. Everyone must have a voice in my administration.
18 CONCLUSION
I have the political will to engage investors and stakeholders in creating the enabling environment for tourism, entertainment and arts; and iconic infrastructure for the benefit of all.
Once again, I thank the good people of Lagos for the confidence reposed in our party; both at the national and State levels. We shall not disappoint you. God bless you all.
20 God bless Lagos State
God bless Nigeria
Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko
Oje mi lo gun; Oje wa lo gun
Eko oni baje – I promise.
Thank you.
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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com
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Prophetic Warnings Intensify: Prophet Kingsley Aitafo’s Alarming Revelations on the Vatican, Akpabio, and Others
Renowned seer, Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, has once again ignited global concern with his prophetic warnings—many of which appear to be manifesting with chilling accuracy. His latest revelations have sent shockwaves through both the spiritual and political landscapes, raising urgent calls for prayer and divine intervention.
A Looming Vatican Shake-Up: Is the Pope’s Seat in Jeopardy?
In a dire prophecy, Prophet Aitafo forewarned that the seat of the Pope is about to be replaced, hinting at an imminent and possibly controversial shift within the Vatican. As whispers of internal tensions and unforeseen challenges grow, the world watches closely. Could the Catholic Church be on the brink of an unprecedented leadership crisis? The prophecy looms large, and the possibility of fulfillment appears more tangible than ever.
Akpabio and Natasha: A Political Showdown with Dire Consequences?
Prophet Aitafo also delivered a stern warning concerning Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging urgent prayers to avert disgrace. The prophecy now takes an even more dramatic turn as Akpabio and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan appear to be heading toward a fierce political confrontation. Tensions are escalating, with signs of a power struggle that could have far-reaching implications. Could this unfolding battle mark the beginning of a dramatic shift in Nigeria’s political landscape? With uncertainty thick in the air, the need for spiritual vigilance has never been more pressing.
Alakija: A Battle Over Sight and Health Concerns
Among the most alarming prophecies is the warning concerning billionaire businesswoman Folorunso Alakija, who has been cautioned about serious eyesight complications. Though details remain scarce, murmurs of health concerns are surfacing, raising questions about the gravity of the prophecy. Could this be a crucial moment for urgent medical attention and intercessory prayers? The urgency surrounding her well-being continues to grow, and those close to her are being urged to take swift action.
Urgent Calls for Divine Intervention
With these prophecies seemingly coming to pass at an alarming rate, followers of Prophet Aitafo are calling for immediate spiritual action. Whether in political upheavals, leadership transitions, or personal afflictions, the accuracy of his revelations continues to unsettle both religious and secular communities alike.
As events unfold, will the world bear witness to the full manifestation of these divine warnings? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Prophet Kingsley Aitafo’s visions are demanding global attention like never before.
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APC NEC Meeting: President Tinubu respects Hon. Omorede’s stance on NWC membership
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2 days agoon
March 1, 2025
APC NEC Meeting:
President Tinubu respects Hon. Omorede’s stance on NWC membership
Not all members and even chieftains of a ruling party have the listening ears of a siting President who happens to be the leader of the party. But, amazingly, Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave a listening ear to Lady Omorede Osifo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy National Treasurer who weathered the storm and ignored all challenges from the male-dominated National Executive Council (NEC) Meeting which held in Abuja to ask the president as leader of the party to increase the number of National Deputies in the National Working Committee (NWC) from five to ten.
After her contributions on the floor of the NEC meeting, President Bola Tinubu appraised the insipiring leadership of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje whom the president passed a vote of confidence on. Mr. President also called on APC executives to take a critical look into the constitution of the party in order to expand the NWC as well as NEC of the party to accomodate more members.
After deliberations of matters on the agenda of the NEC Meeting, Lady Omorede Osifo, a distinguished heroine of Edo state amazingly blessed with beauty, brain and brawn, stood up gallantly, taking her turn to urge the President, the National Chairman and other executive members to look into involving five more National Deputies to the NWC.
Lady Omorede Osifo is a very hardworking, focussed and loyal chieftain of the APC who has contributed her sterling quotas to the expansive growth of the party, participating in the political and democratic philosophies of the ruling party and ably representing the womenfolk at the top echelon of Nigeria’s politics.
Her agitation paved the way for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to set up a committee headed by the executive governor of Yobe State, His Excellency Mala Buni to thoroughly scrutinize and verify the criteria for bringing new members into the NWC. This portends the sterling qualities of Lady Omorede Osifo as been a selfless democrat. She believes all hands must be on deck to fashion out comprehensive unity and comradeship amongst all members of the party and their leaders.
Having proven her democratic mettle, Osifo was well supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a pragmatic and charismatic leader who encourages an all-round participation in the unity and progressiveness of the party while working concomittantly to actualize national growth.
President Tinubu, a very reliable and dependable leader has, since taken over the mantle of leading Africa’s largest population and world’s largest black nation. Today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s progressive agenda towards restructuring the economy of Nigeria is gradually showing momentum. He remains the most humane civilian president Nigeria has ever experienced. Just like Tinubu, Lady Omorede Osifo is an epitome of genuine womanhood, sincere to the cause of her feminine gender while promoting the ideals of her party the All Progressives Congress.
An iron lady of the Niger Delta region, Omorede Osifo embodies dignity and integrity directed towards regional and national developments. She is so passionate about her party that she was in the fore- front during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Presidential electioneering campaigns. Lady Omorede Osifo over the years has contributed immensely to the transformation of women and the girl child, promoting education, health, investment, trade , Farming and other vital areas of human development in the country. As the Deputy National Treasurer of the country’s ruling party the APC, Lady Omorede Osifo also called the Lioness of Edo State Politics has been extremely instrumental to the successful turnarounds in the party which are directly impacting on Nigerians. She is a blessing to her generation and an icon worth emulating and celebrating.
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LAGOS ASSEMBLY CRISIS DEEPENS: OBASA, MERANDA LOCK HORNS IN POLITICAL SHOWDOWN
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LAGOS ASSEMBLY CRISIS DEEPENS: OBASA, MERANDA LOCK HORNS IN POLITICAL SHOWDOWN
The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly has reached a boiling point, with no resolution in sight as the 35 lawmakers who ousted Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker remain adamant that he will not be reinstated.
Despite Obasa’s dramatic return to the Assembly on Thursday—bolstered by restored security details and an impromptu plenary session with only four lawmakers—the embattled lawmaker’s claim to the speakership faces stiff resistance. His successor, Mojisola Meranda, remains firmly in control, backed by a significant majority of lawmakers who have vowed to uphold their decision.
Obasa’s Defiant Comeback Obasa’s return to the Assembly comes on the heels of intense political maneuvering within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Following a high-profile meeting that included former Osun and Ogun governors, Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other key party figures, a resolution was reportedly reached. The agreement suggested that Obasa should resign, while Meranda would step down to pave the way for another Speaker from Lagos West Senatorial District. However, that plan crumbled when Obasa stormed the Assembly complex with a full security escort, proclaiming his reinstatement.
“I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly. I’ve never been removed,” Obasa defiantly told reporters. “Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but it must follow due process. I am not against that. If I do that, then I am not democratic.”
Tinubu’s Alleged Influence in the Power Struggle There are strong indications that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political machinery played a role in Obasa’s sudden resurgence. According to insider sources within Lagos APC, Obasa’s return was the result of a late-night meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, with top party leaders loyal to the President.
A source close to the negotiations disclosed, “Obasa’s return to the Assembly is a direct outcome of that meeting. The lawmakers rejected the panel’s recommendation that Meranda should step down. Even those from Lagos West, who were supposed to produce a new Speaker, refused the offer. Eventually, a reluctant compromise was reached to consider Honourable Setonji David, but the lawmakers were not enthusiastic about it. Seeing their hesitation, Obasa, with support from the Presidency, made his move.”
An APC stalwart further described Obasa’s reinstatement attempt as a “massive political statement,” warning that it could spell the end of the once-powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
“The GAC’s influence is crumbling. They failed to resolve this crisis, and now the President had to step in through his own loyalists. This means Lagos politics is changing, and there will be casualties when this dust settles.”
Tensions Mount at the Assembly Complex The Assembly complex has turned into a fortress, with a heavy security presence maintaining order as the crisis intensifies. On Friday, armed operatives from the state police command, task force, and mobile police officers took control of the premises, restricting movement and barring entry to unauthorized individuals. Over 25 patrol vehicles lined the roads leading to the Assembly, while police officers stood guard at strategic locations.
Assembly workers described the eerie emptiness of the usually bustling complex, attributing it to the political uncertainty. “Normally, you would see people all over the place, but after what happened on Thursday, many are staying away,” a staff member revealed.
Courtroom Drama: Legal Battle Begins The battle has also shifted to the courts. A heated legal showdown unfolded on Friday at the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, where Obasa filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of his removal. The suit, filed before Justice Yetunde Pinheiro, argues that the House’s proceedings during a recess were unlawful since Obasa neither reconvened the Assembly nor delegated his authority.
A dramatic twist occurred when two different lawyers claimed to represent the Assembly. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, appeared on record for the Assembly, but another lawyer, Abang Mkpandiok, challenged him, claiming he had been newly briefed by the House. The standoff led to a temporary suspension of proceedings as the court deferred ruling on the representation issue.
Meranda Fires Back: ‘A Show of Shame’ Reacting to Obasa’s attempted return, Speaker Mojisola Meranda dismissed his actions as a desperate bid for power.
“To me, what happened on Thursday was just a show of shame. In our job, we work with numbers that form a quorum. If you are sitting with only three or four members, you’re merely staging a drama,” she declared.
Despite the turbulence, Meranda remains confident in her position, asserting that the Assembly will reconvene soon—contrary to Obasa’s claim that the House is on recess. She also revealed that her full security detail had not been restored, saying, “I have my people and God with me. I am not afraid.”
Lawmakers Stand Their Ground A growing number of lawmakers continue to rally behind Meranda. Spokesperson for the Assembly, Ogundipe Olukayode, confirmed that 35 lawmakers, including Meranda, remain resolute in their decision.
“We are 35 strong as we speak, including Madam Speaker. The House will reconvene soon. We are consulting with our leaders, and the party is also working on the matter. But Lagosians should rest assured—we are committed to serving them.”
Lawmakers from different constituencies echoed this sentiment. Honourable David Setonji of Badagry Constituency II, through his media aide, reaffirmed their stance: “Meranda is the recognized Speaker. Obasa was rejected, and he is not coming back.”
Lagos APC Walks a Tightrope The Lagos APC leadership appears to be walking a fine line, calling for peace while struggling to maintain neutrality. APC state spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, described the crisis as a “quarrel between siblings,” assuring that the party is working towards reconciliation while respecting the legislature’s independence.
However, growing allegations of presidential involvement raise questions about the true dynamics at play. A senior legal practitioner pointed out that recent security shifts—including changes in the DSS leadership and the police commissioner—hint at federal influence in the crisis. “Obasa’s confidence in challenging 35 lawmakers suggests that Abuja is pulling strings,” he alleged.
What’s Next? With no clear resolution in sight, the Lagos Assembly crisis has morphed into a high-stakes political battle that could redefine power dynamics in the state. The coming days will determine whether Obasa’s defiance will prevail or if Meranda’s majority-backed leadership will stand firm against the political storm.
One thing is certain—Lagos politics has entered uncharted waters, and the outcome of this crisis will shape its future for years to come.
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