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Sen. Chris Anyanwu expresses her disappointment in Prof. Wole Soyinka in an open letter “my heart sank because this time, my dear Baba, my dear icon, you are wrong.”

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Sen. Chris Anyanwu, who moved the motion on the recently passed ‘Sexual Offences Bill’  has responded to Wole Soyinka’s open letter which was published over the weekend where he blasted a bill passed by the senate legalizing sex with underage girls. See her response below…
I have read your open letter published on a number of on-line papers. No one who read that letter could miss the fury embedded in your words. I know where that fury comes from: moral fiber, good conscience, and love of people. I want to assure you that it was the very same sentiments that drove me to come up with The Sexual Offences Bill and the same sentiments that led Senators and members to pass it.

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As always, your aim was to speak as the voice of reason in our increasingly confused society.  I know you meant well. I know you acted out of your deep compassion for Nigerians and fatherly love for the children. But as I read your open letter, my heart sank because this time, my dear Baba, my dear icon, you are wrong.

You have been misled by the misinformation circulated by someone who could not read or comprehend a legal draft; someone who did not have the patience to read through a proposal, see what was recommended and what was finally accepted. You were misled by someone who deliberately distorted the content of one of the most profound bills ever passed by the Nigerian legislature, scandalized the proponent and the institution for reasons that you and I may not know.

No where in the SEXUAL OFFENCES BILL that I proposed; no where in the bill passed by Senate was it stated that you can defile an 11 years old. Nowhere in the bill passed by the Senate was the age “11 years” mentioned. Here is what was passed in relation to your area of pre-occupation which is defilement clause 6 (2):
“A person who commits an offence of defilement shall upon conviction be sentenced to imprisonment for life”.

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You claimed that the bill re-defined “female adulthood as marital status”. Where in the bill proposed by me and where in the bill passed by Senate did you see adulthood linked to marital status? The extreme distortion of the spirit, intent and even content of this bill leads me to think that you may be talking about an all-together different piece of legislation. For emphasis, let me state that the bill makes no such linkages as you erroneously stated. I think it may be fear of Sen Yerima that is at play here. For your information, Senator Yerima and all other Senators who  participated in the debate on the two occasions the bill came up on the floor supported it as a vehicle for instituting a stringent law barring all ranges of sexual offences in Nigeria. They did this because they also have children, wives, daughters, even mothers and cannot afford to leave them in the current state where abuses are rewarded with a slap on the wrist of the
perpetrators because our laws are outdated, without strong in-built deterrence and the mechanisms for monitoring and control are absent.

This is just another case of people demonizing what is clearly in the public good because of deep-seated negative pre-dispositions towards individuals in an institution. By your strong advocacy against the bill, you have unwittingly stamped your feet in favor of maintaining the status quo. Where we are now.. the status quo.. is a world in which a six year old child is raped to death and then set ablaze. Where we are now is a place where a father rapes his 3 year old boys repeatedly and the mother weeps at night and cannot speak out due to shame and fear of her life. Where we are now is a place where young Cynthia in her struggles for self employment ran into a gang who drugged her, raped and murdered her. Where we are now is a place where foreigners come for tourism and turn children to their objects of tourism.

With all due respect Sir, I want to express my deep disappointment with your hastiness in flowing with the mob on this matter. I blame your press officers. I think they should have advised caution.  You have known me since the 1990’s. There is no way you could have sent feelers and I would not jump into the next flight to answer you.  In fact, a mere telephone call could have dispensed with the matter. If you had even asked someone to get you a copy of the Votes and Proceedings of Senate for that day which published the exact words in the legislation passed, you would have spared yourself the time and emotions spent over what is clear mischief circulated through the web. The people who started it all are hate-mongers. They merely took advantage of the negative public feelings they have built up against the legislature. You have no business with such people Sir.

I am sure in the most inner recesses of your mind you know I cannot in anyway be associated with any anti-people law. Nothing in my personal history, professional antecedents or even the hard work I did to push through pro-people legislations in Senate, could lead anyone to think of me as capable of working against children, the very people I fought for over the course of my 8 years in Senate. The Sexual Offences bill is only one of many I did. I also proposed the Occupational Safety and Health bill protecting workers in virtually all sectors of the economy from hazards at work.  The only group excluded are those in the oil and gas sectors who have been extensively provided for in the PIB.

There was no “accident” as you call it involved in this legislation. Neither was there an error in judgment. The bill has been fabricated to provide a strong deterrence against abuses. When implemented, It will mitigate the private sufferings of parents; reduce their fear of what happens in their absence to their children at school, in the play grounds, in the neighborhoods, even in religious spaces.

Nigeria today is not a safe place for children; not a safe place for girls; not a safe place for small boys; and it is not a safe place either for old women.  This legislation is proposes condign punishments for abhorrent crimes such as we are seeing in our country today. It even covers crimes yet to arrive our shores. Under this bill, pedophiles will be put away for life not made rock stars as we do today. This bill will bring sanity to our society. It will make Nigeria a better place for all.

I suspect that some of those fighting against the bill are fixating on the short title. Its long title shows what it is:  a sexual offences prevention bill; a tough deterrence to crime.  I want you to take time and read the final copy of the bill. You will be proud. You will realize that good things can come from Nigeria and Nigerians. It is not only legislations initiated by outsiders and handed to us locals to push for their passage that should be deemed as good for us. By passing that bill, National Assembly has kept faith with the people of Nigeria. It has provided the cover of protection under which Nigerian children can live normal lives of fulfillment without fear. By your robust advocacy against the bill preventing sexual abuses of children, you foreclose the future of children in this society. But if I read you correctly, I have no doubt that you will reverse yourself on this once you have the correct information. This is why I have written you
this letter.

You have made your first “imposition” on Mr. President based on your understanding of the false information circulated by the very offenders you despise. I plead with you as a man who has been found to be a great man of honor and bestowed with the highest literary honor in the world to reconsider your position.

Let me on behalf of the innumerable victims of abuse in Nigeria; let me invoke the spirit of Cynthia who fell victim in Lagos; and let me plead  on behalf of the many wives and husbands deliberately infected with HIV by their partners whose suffering impelled this bill, that you reverse your instruction to Mr. President.  The President of the Federal Republic looks to old sages like you for positive direction. That was what you intended to give him. But now that you know the truth, for the sake of your long established reputation and known love for Nigeria, turn it around and urge Mr. President to sign this bill that will protect our people, restore sanity to society and make Nigeria a better place for all.

I remain your loyal admirer and sister, Sen Chris Anyanwu.

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NASRE Applauds, Charges Tinubu On Economic Revival Amid 72nd Birthday

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NASRE Applauds, Charges Tinubu On Economic Revival Amid 72nd Birthday

NASRE Applauds, Charges Tinubu On Economic Revival Amid 72nd Birthday

 

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The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE), has extended heartfelt felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the occasion of his 72nd birthday.

 

NASRE Applauds, Charges Tinubu On Economic Revival Amid 72nd Birthday

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This is even as the group urged the president to use this occasion to ponder on the challenges confronting the country and evolve active ways to resolve them.

The President of NASRE, Femi Oyewale who, on behalf of the association, joined esteemed members of the general public to celebrate this significant milestone in the life of a distinguished leader, acknowledging President Tinubu’s dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Nigeria.

According to him, “on this auspicious occasion, NASRE acknowledges President Tinubu’s notable achievements and contributions to the socio-economic advancement of our great nation. However, amidst the celebrations, we urge President Tinubu and his administration to redouble their efforts to further revamp the economy and prioritise our dear country’s security.

“As editors representing various media outlets across Nigeria, we are acutely aware of the challenges facing our nation. We must collectively work towards addressing these challenges and creating an environment conducive to sustainable growth and development.

While apprlauding steps taken so far to address forex volatility and the formation of Economic Team as well as re-opening of borders to ease suffering of the masses, he said, solutions such as Tax waivers for Businesses, especially, SMEs; addressing epileptic power supply; construction of and embarking on palliatives on major Federal roads that are in bad state; harmonisation and cordiality of fiscal and monetary policies for maximum economic impacts; tackling insecurity, escalating food price and so on should be prioritised.

“We call upon President Tinubu to leverage his wealth of experience and leadership prowess to implement pragmatic policies that will stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and alleviate poverty.

“Additionally, we urge his administration to intensify efforts to ensure all Nigerians’ safety and security, safeguarding lives and property across the nation”, he said.

He, however, pointed out that as stakeholders in the Nigerian project, NASRE pledges its unwavering support to President Tinubu’s administration in its quest to build a prosperous and secure nation for present and future generations.

“Together, let us forge ahead with renewed determination and resilience, towards a brighter and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

“Once again, we extend our warmest felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 72nd birthday, wishing him good health, happiness, and continued success in all his endeavours”, he said.

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Tinubu Appeals To Religious Leaders

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Tinubu Appeals To Religious Leaders

 

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Tinubu Appeals To Religious Leaders

 

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President Bola Tinubu has called on religious leaders to refrain from vilifying or denigrating the nation in their sermons.

 

Tinubu Appeals To Religious Leaders

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Speaking during Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders at the State House on Thursday in Abuja, the President emphasized the important role of religious leaders in shaping public opinion and fostering a sense of unity among citizens.

He urged the leaders to be more constructive in their criticism of those in elective positions.

President Tinubu also declared that his administration is determined to turn Nigeria’s challenges into prosperity.

He reiterated that no terrorist can defeat the collective will of Nigerians, no matter how hard they try to prey on innocent citizens.

He urged traditional and religious leaders to forge a strong bond with the government to defeat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality in the country.

”Yesterday in Abuja, I attended the burial of the 17 soldiers killed in action at Okuama, Delta State. I saw their pregnant wives and little kids.

”The love of the nation is in your hands. Pray for our country. Educate our children. The sermons we preach to the members of our churches and mosques are important.

”Do not condemn your own nation. As a Yoruba man and as our fathers will say, ‘No matter how slippery the bottom of your child is, you must leave the beads there.’

“Leave the beads there. This is your country; do not condemn it in sermons, do not abuse the nation. Leadership is meant for change.

”Yes, this leader is bad, fine. Wait until the next election to change him, but do not condemn your country. Do not curse Nigeria. This is a beautiful land.

The President, who acknowledged the birthday wishes and goodwill extended to him on the occasion, reminded the leaders that his birthday on March 29, 2024, coincided with Good Friday.

“I have earned the honour of having my birthday fall on Good Friday, and I pray that on this Maundy Thursday, you all shall return to your homes safely. May God guide and keep you and your families in good health, and lift your spirits,” the President prayed.

Different speakers at the dinner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to come together in the spirit of Ramadan to share a meal with the President and renew the bonds of friendship that unite the nation.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima emphasized the pivotal roles of religious and traditional rulers in promoting peace and unity, urging them to continue to ‘‘build bridges that transcend ethnic and religious divides.’’

The Vice-President expressed delight that the nation’s economy is on a rebound, noting the strengthening of the naira against the dollar.

”The President means well for the nation, and he has continued to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership.

”For many years, fuel subsidy was an albatross. The President took a bold decision from day one, and he hit the ground running. Now the economy is turning the corner,” the Vice-President said.

Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Rulers Council of Nigeria, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assured the President of the unwavering support of traditional rulers and commended the government’s efforts to address the hike in food prices and the security challenges.

”You are not alone, Mr. President. The prices of food items and goods are gradually coming down. You are doing your best on security, and we cannot allow you to do it alone. We will join hands to support your vision for the betterment of our nation,” the Ooni said.

Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Zazzau, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, empathy, and unity.

On the security situation in the country, the Emir of Zazzau, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of NSCIA, expressed optimism that the country will return to peace and stability.

”I am happy to see representatives of Muslim and Christian communities in this room. I pray God Almighty blesses the President for him to do more to take the country to the Promised Land,” the Emir prayed.

Apostle Samson Fatokun, General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), noted that the Ramadan dinner with religious and traditional leaders, coincided with Maundy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter, observed in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s institution of the Eucharist during the Last Supper.

The General Secretary, who delivered the address of CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended President Tinubu for fostering a harmonious relationship between the State and the Church.

”We are encouraged that your administration has shown great determination in tackling the challenges of kidnapping and banditry and bringing to justice the perpetrators of this dastardly act.

”We shall continue to show our support to your administration so that you can execute your noble intention for the nation,” CAN General Secretary said.

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Senegal Election: The Prophecy Of Primate Ayodele That President Macky Sall Ignored (VIDEO)

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Senegal Election: The Prophecy Of Primate Ayodele That President Macky Sall Ignored (VIDEO)

*Senegal Election: The Prophecy Of Primate Ayodele That President Macky Sall Ignored (VIDEO)

 

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The presidential election of Senegal have been held but if outgoing President, Macky Sall could turn the hands of time around, He would take the prophecy of Nigerian prophet, Primate Ayodele regarding the election seriously and follow his instructions – Maybe that would save his anointed candidate, Amadou Ba.

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Senegal Election: The Prophecy Of Primate Ayodele That President Macky Sall Ignored (VIDEO)

 

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The election saw the candidate of the opposition party, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye becoming victorious in an unprecedented manner; the ruling party’s candidate had to congratulate him even before the results were fully released just to show that it was a landslide victory.

Beyond what many experienced in the Sunday election, Primate Ayodele had warned President Macky Sall before the election about his anointed candidate, Amadou Ba, who was the immediate past Prime minister of Senegal.

The prophet in a video publication mentioned that the people of Senegal will not accept Amadou Ba’s candidacy in the election while also giving the president some advice on how to go about winning the election for his anointed candidate.

Primate Ayodele mentioned three major instructions to President Macky Sall and they include changing strategy, seeking the face of God for the candidate and ensuring that Ousmane Sonko, the major opposition leader doesn’t come out of jail before the election.

These were his words

‘’Senegalese president Macky Sall doesn’t understand what politics is. The people don’t want his candidate, he needs to quickly do two things; he should strategize urgently to seek the face of God for his candidate to have his way. Also, if the main opposition still produces the man he sent to jail and he wins at the court and faces his own candidate, He will defeat your candidate. Don’t allow him to come out, let him stay as long as you want him there but the moment he is released from prison, He will toughen your candidate.’’

@primateayodele

#africantiktok #africatiktok #African #Africa #primateayodele #iescworldwide #senegalaise_tik_tok #senegal #senegaltiktok

♬ original sound – Primate Ayodele

From the foregoing, it’s obvious Primate Ayodele had foretold the loss of the President’s anointed candidate and if he had known, he would have followed instructions by seeking the face of God for Amadou Ba or even changing him since the prophet revealed that people will not want him to represent them.

Unfortunately, instead of doing things as instructed, President Macky Sall went ahead to jeopardize the chances of his party by attempting to extend his tenure and postponing the presidential election indefinitely.

Meanwhile, Primate Ayodele had warned the president against attempting to create tension in the country to avoid a military coup. Macky Sall went through the wrong route and this affected the chances of his party greatly in the election.

Similarly, the opposition candidates, Ousmane Sonko and Diomaye Faye were imprisoned but released 10 days before the election. As the man of God stated, their release from prison generated so much buzz around the candidacy of Faye and contributed to his victory in the election.

President Macky Sall was warned in Primate Ayodele’s prophecy about an imminent loss, he was given prophetic solutions to salvage the situation in his favour but he ignored all of them and decided to do things his own way. Unfortunately, it didn’t turn out well for him.

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