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Umo Eno’s Classmates Rise In His Defence, Insist he left Schools with Honour

Published

2 years ago

May 13, 2023

Editor

Classmates of Akwa Ibom State Governor-elect, Pastor Umo Eno at Victory High School and University of Uyo have taken to various platforms to defend him, insisting that he was a sterling student.

The classmates’ reaction came following another spate of personal attacks on the entrepreneur turned politician by certain adversaries who are not only desperate for power but want to wish away his overwhelming victory at the March 18, 2023 gubernatorial poll.

His secondary school peers expressed their staunch defence through a congratulatory letter dated May 10, 2023 by Victory High School/College Old Students Association.

The old students wrote “We believe that your victory is well deserved and it will afford the great and good people of Akwa Ibom State the opportunity to benefit from your wealth of experience, competence, character and wisdom some of which were evident during your days at Victory High School/College, where you excelled and was the Senior Prefect.

The letter signed by Engr. Oluseyi Olorunyomi, Global President and Prince (Dr.) Richard Oma Ahonaruogho (SAN), Chairman, Board of Trustees went further to state “ We wish to assure your Excellency and the great people of Akwa Ibom of the continued goodwill and prayers of Victory High School/College Old School Association.

In a similar vein, some students who graduated from the University of Uyo have also taken to various platforms to express their views about the governor-elect.

One of them Effiong Peter said he was in the faculty of Political Science and Public Administration and that he can remember Umo Eno vividly because he was one of the mature students in their department.

“ He was a senior student, many people who were in the faculty knew him because he was not your regular student. I am certain that he graduated with us and so this story of rustication is the figment of somebody’s imagination.

Another wrote “Idorenyin Umana and I grauduated alongside the incoming Governor, Umo Bassey Eno. Stop this smelly propaganda and smear campaign.

This person went further to state ‘ See attached, our graduation brochure and check the name ticked in red by the left”

The screenshot of the brochure he posted had the words 6th Convocation University of Uyo at the bottom and page 89 had a list of graduating students. Under Second Class (Honours) Lower Division, the 17th name on the list is ENO, Umo Bassey.

Another UniUyo graduate wondered why some politicians will go to such a length to rubbish the reputation of another person..

” And to even think that one of those making these wild allegations is a convict currently serving a jail term, makes this whole cooked up story laughable”

It will be recalled that Mr Akan Okon, a PDP aspirant had approached the Supreme Court in Appeal Number SC/CV/172/2023 having lost previously at both the Federal High Court and Appeal Court.

He had alleged that he was the validly elected PDP candidate and cast aspersions on the certificate of Pastor Umo Eno.

The Supreme Court in its judgement held that Pastor Eno was eminently qualified for the election and was duly nominated by his party on May 25, 2022.

The appeal court had also affirmed that the WAEC result presented to the Independent Natioal Electoral Commission (INEC) by Pastor Eno was authentic and not a forgery as alleged by Mr Akan Okon

Featured

Tinubu Appoints Ex-Lagos Transport Comm., Opeifa, As Railway Corporation MD

Published

19 hours ago

January 22, 2025

Eric

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has appointed Dr. Kayode Opeifa as the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), a move widely praised for its strategic significance.

Dr. Opeifa, a renowned transportation expert and former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, is celebrated for his transformative policies that redefined public transport and traffic management in one of Africa’s busiest cities.

During his tenure as Commissioner, Dr. Opeifa introduced reforms that significantly eased traffic congestion, improved public transportation systems, and laid a solid foundation for Lagos State’s rapid urban growth.

His expertise extended to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where he served as Transport Secretary, implementing forward-thinking policies that enhanced mobility in the nation’s capital.

In his new role, Dr. Opeifa is expected to spearhead the modernization of Nigeria’s railway network, a critical infrastructure component for the nation’s economic advancement.

Industry stakeholders have expressed optimism about his appointment, highlighting his extensive experience in transportation planning and infrastructure development as assets for implementing sustainable solutions.

“This is a timely and commendable appointment,” noted one transportation expert. “Dr. Opeifa’s deep understanding of Nigeria’s transportation challenges makes him the ideal candidate to drive meaningful reforms in the railway sector.”

The Tinubu administration’s decision underscores its commitment to appointing competent professionals to execute its Renewed Hope agenda. With Dr. Opeifa at the helm, there is growing anticipation that the NRC will achieve improved connectivity, efficiency, and broader contributions to national development.

Featured

SERAP Demands Reversal of Hike in Telecom Tariff

Published

1 day ago

January 22, 2025

Eric

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded the reversal of the recent 50% hike in telecom tariffs, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal government.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on January 20, 2025, announced regulatory approval for telecom operators to raise tariffs by 50 per cent. The agency said the tariff hike will help the operators improve the country’s telecommunication infrastructure.

The tariff hike follows agitations from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) to review call tariffs upwards.

SERAP described the increase as “unlawful” and warned of impending legal action if the government and telecom operators fail to reverse the decision.

“The Tinubu administration and telcos must immediately reverse the unlawful increase in calls and data costs. We’ll see in court if the 50% tariff hike is not reversed within 48 hours,” the group declared.

SERAP’s ultimatum reflects growing public dissatisfaction over the hike, with many Nigerians expressing concerns about its impact on the cost of living.

The organization also insisted that the tariff hike violates the rights of consumers and threatens access to affordable communication services.

“This increase is not only unjustifiable but also unlawful. It risks undermining the accessibility of essential communication services for millions of Nigerians,” SERAP’s statement read.

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Gov Adeleke Mourns Late Erelu Ayeni, Says She Was Exceptional

Published

3 days ago

January 20, 2025

Eric

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Erelu (Mrs.) Anthonia Abiodun Ayeni, fondly known as “Mama Yemi” or “Madam YEMKEM.”

Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late Erelu Ayeni, Governor Adeleke described her as a pillar of strength and an embodiment of grace and hospitality. He fondly recalled her warmth and kindness, particularly during his visits to Oye-Ekiti, where she consistently made him feel at home.

“Erelu was an exceptional woman who treated me with the utmost care and respect. Her kindness and thoughtfulness were unparalleled,” Adeleke remarked.

The Governor recounted how Erelu Ayeni and her husband played a significant role in supporting his political journey. “When I shared my intention to run for governor, they not only prayed for me but also stood by me as pillars of encouragement. Even during the challenging aftermath of my first gubernatorial election, their unwavering support remained a source of strength,” he said.

Governor Adeleke further extolled Erelu Ayeni’s virtues as a loving wife, devoted mother, and a beacon of hope and support to her community. He emphasized that her exemplary character and selfless commitment to others had left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.

“Mama Yemi’s generosity and steadfast faith will be deeply missed. While we mourn her departure, we take solace in the fact that she is now resting in the bosom of the Lord,” Adeleke concluded.

The Governor’s tribute was a testament to the profound impact Erelu Ayeni had on those around her, as family, friends, and well-wishers continue to mourn her loss.