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GTBank Alleged Cyberstalking: Digital Journalists Group Direct Members, Charges Others To Boycott GTB
Digital Journalists group, Guild of digital Journalists, GDJ has call on its members to shun GTB in protest against the ongoing trial of 4 journalists charged with defaming and cyberstalking the management of GTCO (Guaranty Trust Holding Company), including its Group CEO, Mr. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Segun Agbaje.The four accused—Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi, Rowland Olonishuwa, and Seun Odunlami—are facing 10 amended charges for allegedly publishing false information about the company through various social media platforms.
This is contained in a Speech Delivered by Mr. Opeyemi Daniel Adeoti, Chairman, Guild of Digital Journalists, GDJ, on the Trial of Four Nigerian Journalists in Lagos, Friday, November 15th, 2024 in Ilorin, Kwara State.
Adeoti said, “Good day, colleagues and members of the media community in Kwara State. We have gathered here to inform you about the challenges faced by Rowland Olonishuwa, Precious Eze, Olawale Rotimi and Seun Odunlami, our companions, who are currently in custody at a correctional facility in Ikoyi, Lagos due to a petition by the Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Segun Agabje over alleged libelous publication against Guaranty Trust Bank.
While we acknowledge that being a journalist does not exempt one from the law, we strongly believe that nobody should be treated as if they are below the law, as our colleagues have been.
The Guild of Digital Journalists is a union of professional journalists who have transitioned from working as primary reporters in established news organizations to establishing and managing their own media platforms, incorporating their expertise into online and social media publishing.
Our membership encompasses bloggers, social media influencers, and microblogging enthusiasts. We have a total of 2,700 members in Kwara State and other regions of the country.
As an organization, we are aware that the entire ordeal faced by these journalists is at the behest of GTB’s management. In light of this, we commend the recent directive from the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Ogun State Council, urging its members to terminate their accounts with GTB.
In our capacity, we are initiating steps to escalate this directive into a nationwide boycott of GTB as a financial institution. By the close of business today, we intend to communicate with all our members to encourage them to follow this course of action as a means of protesting against the treatment of these journalists.
As part of the guidance provided to our members, we have compiled a list of alternative banks along with the names and contact details of account officers at these banks to facilitate a smooth transition away from GTB.
Members of the press, you may have learned that the trial court overseeing the case of our colleagues in Lagos adjourned proceedings, once again, to the 10th and 12th of December.
This leaves no doubt as to GTB’s true intentions in instigating the arrest of our colleagues, exploiting a vaguely defined clause in the cybercrime amendment act. We firmly condemn the ongoing trials of these four journalists.
Let it be known once more, unequivocally, that journalism is not a criminal offense.
Furthermore, the Guild of Digital Journalists expresses deep disappointment at the lackluster response from the national Secretariat of the NUJ in Abuja.
While we acknowledge the ongoing leadership transition within the NUJ hierarchy, the Secretariat should have displayed more empathy or at least aligned its voice with the calls for the release of these journalists.
As journalists in practice, we urge stakeholders such as the National Assembly, the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and human rights activists and NGOs to unite in raising global awareness about the plight of our colleagues in Lagos.
Specifically, we call on the National Assembly to review the recently amended Cybercrime Act with the aim of rectifying its draconian provisions, which criminalize journalists for expressing their fundamental right of freedom of expression or potentially repealing it.
Throughout these past two months of adversity, we have encountered allies and comrades who have taken up the cause. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the National Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) and the legal team who have worked tirelessly to secure the release of the journalists.
Special appreciation goes to Asiwaju Kunle Kalejaiye, SAN, Mr. Olalekan Ojo, SAN, Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN, Barrister Kunle Afolabi, and Barrister Adebisi Adeniyi for their unwavering support in the face of daunting tasks.
We equally call on Nigerian media to rally round our colleagues by giving adequate reportage of the court proceedings.
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Celebrating Excellence: The Outstanding Achievements of Deputy Governor Joel Salifu
By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja, Nigeria
As the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Comrade Joel Salifu has been making waves with his outstanding achievements, which have endeared him to the people of the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
His exemplary leadership, humility, and commitment to the welfare of the people have been evident in his numerous accomplishments.One of his notable achievements is his role as Chairman of the Committee on Flood, where he played a crucial part in managing the 2024 floods in the state. His proactive approach and leadership skills ensured that the state was well-prepared to mitigate the effects of the flood, thereby minimizing the impact on the people and their properties.
Furthermore, Comrade Salifu’s diplomatic prowess was on full display when he successfully brokered an amicable settlement to the boundary dispute between Kogi and Enugu State at Ette in Olamaboro Local Government Area. This landmark achievement is a testament to his ability to navigate complex issues and find mutually beneficial solutions. The resolution of this long-standing dispute has brought relief to the affected communities and has paved the way for increased cooperation and collaboration between the two states.
In addition to his achievements in flood management and conflict resolution, Comrade Salifu has also been representing Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo admirably in various capacities. His representation has been characterized by humility and an open-door policy, which has endeared him to the people. He has been a worthy ambassador of the governor and the state, and his actions have consistently reflected the values of the administration.
Comrade Salifu has also been a gracious host to traditional rulers in the state, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation among them. His doors have always been open to the monarchs, listening to their concerns and working tirelessly to address them. This gesture has not only strengthened the relationship between the government and traditional institutions but has also promoted peace and stability in the state.
More so, Comrade Salifu’s ability to carry traditional rulers along in the governance of the state has been a hallmark of his administration. He has consistently engaged with traditional rulers, seeking their counsel and input on matters affecting their domains. This collaborative approach has not only earned him the respect and admiration of the traditional rulers but has also ensured that the government’s policies and programs are tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges of each community.
Comrade Salifu’s commitment to the welfare of the people has also been evident in his interactions with labor leaders. He has hailed Governor Ododo as a visionary leader and attributed the harmonious relationship between labor unions and the government to the governor’s exemplary leadership style.
Moreover, Comrade Salifu has been actively representing the governor at key events across the state. For instance, he represented Governor Ododo at the inauguration of the Nyamkpo Community Electrification Project in Bassa local government Area. During the event, he reiterated the administration’s commitment to rapid infrastructural development and emphasized the importance of electricity in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life.
In another show of compassion and commitment to the welfare of the people, Comrade Salifu played a key role in the payment of compensation to victims of the GSM Village fire disaster in Lokoja. His efforts ensured that the victims received the necessary support and assistance to rebuild their lives and livelihoods. This gesture was widely applauded by the people, who saw it as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to their welfare.
Remarkably, Comrade Joel Salifu’s achievements as Deputy Governor of Kogi State are a testament to his dedication, leadership skills, and commitment to the welfare of the people. His efforts in flood management, conflict resolution, representation, and hosting traditional rulers have been outstanding, and his actions have consistently reflected the values of the administration. As he continues to serve the people of Kogi State, it is clear that his legacy will be one of service, dedication, and commitment to the greater good.
Notably, Deputy Governor Joel Salifu’s outstanding achievements are a shining testament to his unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership skills, and unrelenting commitment to the welfare of the people of Kogi State. His impressive track record in flood management, conflict resolution, representation, and fostering harmonious relationships with traditional rulers and labor leaders has been truly remarkable.
These accomplishments are a direct result of the visionary leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, who has been instrumental in driving progress in Kogi State. The governor’s commitment to the welfare of the people, his diplomatic prowess, and his ability to carry traditional rulers along in the governance of the state have been impressive.
Moreover, the wise decision made by Former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello to lay the foundation for the progress Kogi State is experiencing today has been instrumental in shaping the state’s success. As the state continues to thrive under Governor Ododo’s leadership, it is clear that his choice was indeed a good one, and one that will have a lasting impact on the state.
Conclusively, Deputy Governor Salifu’s legacy will be one of service, dedication, and commitment to the greater good. His selfless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of the people of Kogi State, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.
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ICDA FCT congratulate Kogi Gov Ododo on One year in office
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Igala Cultural and Development Association, ICDA Federal Capital Territory, FCT and Surrounding Towns congratulate the Executive Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo on the ocassion of his one year in office. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
In a statement issued by the Director of Media, ICDA, FCT & Surrounding Towns, Prince AbdulRahman Obaje The Chairman ICDA FCT, Alhaji Ahmed Usman highlights Governor Ododo’s achievement within the short period of one year.
Alhaji Ahmed said Some of the achievements of Governor Ododo include committment to workers welfare, alleviating poverty and unemployment, transparency and good governance.
He said, As we celebrate this milestone, we pray for the Governor’s continued good health, wisdom and guidance as he leads the people of Kogi State to greater heights.”
“We extend our warmest congratulations and deepest respect to the Executive Governor as he marks one year of worthy service and exemplary leadership. May Allah continue to grant him wisdom, health, and enduring success.
The Governor’s invaluable role as a unifying force in Kogi State and beyond, and his enduring legacy will continue to inspire others.” He concludes.
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One Year in Office: Honourable Kabiru Salawu celebrates Governor Ododo’s achievement
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Honourble Kabiru Salawu has congratulates the Executive Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo on the occasion of his one year in office. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js">
In a statement issued to journalists in Lokoja, Hon Kabiru describes Governor Ododo as a charismatic leader that has the love and interest of his people at heart.
He said that the Governor Ododo led administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance, workers welfare, poverty alleviation, infrastructural development, job creation to mention but few is a testimony to his commitment to the people of kogi state as it has stands him out among his peer.
He further said that, “as we celebrate this milestone, we pray for more wisdom, sound health, God guidance as he leads the people of Kogi State to greater heights.”
“I extend my warmest felicitations and profound respect to the Governor as he marks one year of worthy of emulation service and exemplary leadership. May Allah continue to grant him wisdom, health, and enduring success.
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- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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