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In Fresh Move Against Corruption, CSOs Partner EFCC on Budget Monitoring

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In Fresh Move Against Corruption, CSOs Partner EFCC on Budget Monitoring

In Fresh Move Against Corruption, CSOs Partner EFCC on Budget Monitoring

 

Scores of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) under the aegis of the Initiative for Leadership and Economic Watch in Nigeria have expressed their desire to team up with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on monitoring of the budget at national and sub-national levels to ensure optimal performance.

The group stated this during a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede at the headquarters in Abuja.

In Fresh Move Against Corruption, CSOs Partner EFCC on Budget Monitoring

Speaking on behalf of the leaders of the CSOs, Ambassador Splendor Agbonkpolor said that the groups came together to operate as a committee, basically to focus on budget monitoring and implementation in the country.

“The budget is our major concern. Our mandate is to monitor budget implementation; to assess budget effectiveness, identify budget gaps, advocate for reforms, promote transparency, provide evidence-based reports, collaborate with stakeholders, and support capacity building”, he said.

Speaking further, Agbonkpolor said the CSOs decided to team up with the EFCC “because we believe that the fight against corruption is not a one -man show. It is not a one-agency business. It’s not a sole business of the EFCC. The EFCC needs Nigerians to assist it in terms of reportage and information. The committee believes that corruption starts with procurement. If corruption is tackled from the point of procurement down to the point of implementation, at the end of the day, the money that would be stolen from the budget would be minimized.

“In our work, over time, we discovered that despite the huge money received by contractors for projects, whenever we get to the site, nothing would be there. If we go on site and we see that a project that was supposed to be on ground is not on ground, we will come to the EFCC and say look at this project, look at the amount of money that has been paid, but there is nothing on ground. So, it makes the work easier for the EFCC to just go there and investigate.”

Agbonkpolor stressed the need for collaboration and cooperation in the fight against corruption.

“The need for us to come together as a team, to be more formidable, to be able to render that independent service to enhance the work of EFCC is very important. It is the reason why we put ourselves together and said, let us come as a committee; let us see how we can begin to assist the government in this direction. And that is why we ran to the EFCC through our organizations on behalf of the committee, so that we can have this interface and understanding and more collaboration,” he said.

Olukoyede, on his part, expressed gratitude to the CSOs for showing “deep interest in seeing that Nigeria moves forward”, adding, “we can only achieve that by collaboration. I have been saying it and I will continue to say it that fighting corruption is not the work of law enforcement or anti-corruption agencies alone and that is why I am so much in love with your initiative. I can guarantee you all our support. When I see civil society with us, it gives me confidence that we are succeeding.”

Olukoyede added: “We are all victims of this crime that we are talking about. So, we are ready to work with you. budget implementation and monitoring are very key. We will ensure that our collaboration with you is strong.”

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NNPP Chieftain, Ambassador Ajadi Mourns Kano Athletes, Sends Condolences to Governor Yusuf By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

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NNPP Chieftain, Ambassador Ajadi Mourns Kano Athletes, Sends Condolences to Governor Yusuf

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

In the aftermath of the devastating road crash that claimed the lives of 20 athletes from Kano State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a Southwest chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has joined the growing number of national figures mourning the tragic loss.

The athletes, who were returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, died when the bus conveying them plunged off the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State on Saturday. The incident has since thrown the state—and the Nigerian sporting community—into deep sorrow.

NNPP Chieftain, Ambassador Ajadi Mourns Kano Athletes, Sends Condolences to Governor Yusuf
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

In a heartfelt condolence message addressed to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the families of the deceased, Ambassador Ajadi expressed shock and deep grief over what he described as “an unspeakable tragedy that has befallen not just Kano State, but the soul of our nation.”

“My heart bleeds for the young and promising athletes whose lives were cut short in such a painful and untimely manner,” Ajadi said. “These were not just sportsmen and women—they were symbols of hope, discipline, and national unity. Their death is a monumental loss to our country.”

Ambassador Ajadi, who was the NNPP gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 general election, is well-known for his philanthropic initiatives and youth empowerment programs. Drawing from his deep concern for Nigeria’s youth and public safety, he called on both federal and state governments to take immediate action to improve the country’s decaying road infrastructure.

“We cannot continue to lose our best and brightest on roads that should have been fixed decades ago. This is a wake-up call. The Dakatsalle Bridge, like many other neglected structures across the country, is a death trap. We need action, not just words,” he added.

He also decried the lack of proper transportation infrastructure for athletes, pointing out the need for Nigeria to emulate developed nations in the way it treats its sporting talents.

“This ugly and avoidable incident could have been averted if good amenities and a conducive environment were provided for our talents. Our talents deserve good mobility like flights, which is the standard mobility that governments of developed countries provide for their athletes,” he said.

Ajadi went further to emphasize that the deceased athletes should not be forgotten or treated as mere casualties. Instead, he called for national recognition of their sacrifice.

“These young athletes should be acknowledged as heroes and heroines who died in the service of the nation. They are martyrs of Nigerian sport and unity,” he stated. “The federal government, alongside Ogun and Kano State governments, should provide for the families of the deceased and ensure that posthumous honors are awarded to them.”

The crash, according to eyewitnesses, occurred when the driver lost control of the bus near the aged and narrow bridge—an infrastructural relic that has long been the subject of public concern. Emergency responders and local residents quickly mobilized to rescue survivors, who are now receiving treatment at Kura General Hospital.

Ajadi echoed this sentiment in his message, describing the athletes as “ambassadors of peace and excellence who died in the line of duty.”

“Their sacrifice must not be in vain. Let us honor their memory not only with mourning but with reforms—real, sustainable reforms in the areas of athlete welfare, road safety, and national infrastructure,” he emphasized.

He further called for a national moment of silence during future sporting events and urged sports federations, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, and fellow political leaders to support the bereaved families beyond mere condolences.

As black ribbons and mourning banners rise across Kano’s sporting centers, the cries for justice and accountability grow louder. For now, families weep, a state mourns, and a nation reflects—hoping this tragedy spurs long-overdue change.

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Excitement as Cyprian Chukwunta Celebrates 50th Birthday with Gratitude for Family, Health, and Success in Business

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*Excitement as Cyprian Chukwunta Celebrates 50th Birthday with Gratitude for Family, Health, and Success in Business*

Renowned Movie Maker and respected entrepreneur, Cyprian Chukwunta — popularly known by his trade name, L.O.C. — marked his milestone 50th birthday with heartfelt reflections on family, health, and his journey in the world of commerce.

L.O.C., known for his Film Making and in religious articles and jewelries, expressed deep gratitude for the path that has brought him this far. “Happy 50th birthday to me! Five decades of life, love, and adventure,” he said, beaming with pride. “Cheers to many more years of joy, laughter, and making memories!”

Addressing family and well-wishers at a small gathering, L.O.C. emphasized the vital role his family has played in his life and success. “I am a family man, first and foremost,” he said passionately. “I have five beautiful kids — three daughters and two sons — who are the light of my life. Every day I’m grateful for their love, their energy, and the blessings they bring into my home.”

Reflecting on his 50-year journey, he shared: “Fifty years young and still going strong. I’m grateful for every moment, every lesson, and every relationship that has shaped me into the man I am today.”

 

Excitement as Cyprian Chukwunta Celebrates 50th Birthday with Gratitude for Family, Health, and Success in Business*

 

L.O.C.’s dedication and business acumen have seen him build a thriving enterprise, making him a respected figure in the trade of religious articles and jewelry. His success story is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the grace of God. He has produced some series films years ago and he is still in the business of producing films

“God has been so good to me,” he said with deep emotion. “I’m especially thankful for my health, my family, he calls it a journey of His Grace, God has been faithful to me.” he added.

LOC’s passion for progress was evident as he looked toward the future with optimism. “Fifty and fabulous! Time to celebrate all the amazing experiences, memories, and lessons learned. Bring on the next chapter!” he declared. “I’m stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever to keep building and giving back.”

L.O.C.’s 50th birthday is not just a personal milestone but a celebration of perseverance, faith, and a legacy built on strong family values and business excellence. As he embraces this new chapter, he remains committed to inspiring those around him, both in business and in life.

Happy birthday, L.O.C. — here’s to many more years of living life with purpose and passion.

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Rasaq and Tracy embark on a new journey together: a joyful celebration of enduring love and unwavering commitment ~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

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Rasaq and Tracy embark on a new journey together: a joyful celebration of enduring love and unwavering commitment
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

It was a joyous atmosphere when friends and families gathered to celebrate with Tracy and Rasaq on their holy marriage ceremony in Texas, United States of America.Tracy, the quintessential woman, also known as Yeye Fiwagboye, and Rasaq’s wedding was a monumental occasion, with dignitaries from near and far in attendance, making it a colorful and glamorous event.

The wedding ceremony of Tracy and Rasaq was truly exceptional and in accordance with the holy scriptures, which state that “he who finds a wife finds good things and obtains favor from God.” And what God has joined together, let no one put asunder.

The officiating pastor delivered a powerful sermon underscoring the importance of marriage as seeking help from God, describing it as an act of wisdom.

The reception exuded a fantabulous atmosphere, attracting a sizable gathering of family, friends and well-wishers from both the bride’s and the groom’s sides. The festivities were set against a sophisticated white backdrop, replete with champagne, assorted beverages and a variety of culinary delights

The wedding was indeed a close-knit one, as the couple’s exceptional dancing steps stood out.

Wishing the couple happy married life

Oluwaseun Fabiyi a seasoned Journalist writes from Lagos, Nigeria

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