2023 General Elections: Vote credible candidates accross parties, shun party traffickers - Kwara Youth Assembly President

By Matthew Denis Abuja

In a bid to ensure better governance in Kwara state and Nigeria ahead of the 2023 General Elections, The President of Kwara Youth Assembly, Barr. Temi Salami Nuruddin has called on the Electorates to vote across the parties front for credible candidates who will deliver true dividend of democracy in kwara state and Nigeria at large.

He appealed to the electorates to shun sheneginans who hide under Political parties to deceive them without having good track records. 

The President made the disclosure during a press conference held in ilorin, Kwara state Capital on Saturday.

He said " We are appealing to the  electorates to vote for representatives that will respect them and understand their pains in the 2023 General Elections.

"That virtually all the political office holder in Kwara are political mistakes birthed by "otoge" there are better politicians scattered in all political party, 

Kwarans should defy party politics  for better candidates."

According to him the kwara  state Governor  Abdulrasaq Abdulraham has deliberately slaughters the local government elections by cutting the throats of the people.

Barr. Salami frowned that the indebtedness of Kwara State doesn't correspond with the capital projects indicated by the government.

He said "more so, a state can't be governed like a sole proprietorship business as it is currently the case. The high-spiritedness and political energy invested in bringing Gov. Abdulrasaq is without mincing words a waste of political lifeline.

"We must be willing as people to deflate those political traffickers in Kwara State.

Those who believe we must get a drop of water on our throat only when we are dead-thirsty and deliberately starve us and negotiate our loyalty with a cup rice.

SOKAPU Passes Vote Of No Confidence On Operation Safe Haven

*coalition demands overhaul, replacement with Mobile Police

Following renewed attacks in the area covered by Operation Safe Haven, fresh calls have been made for the replacement of its Commander.

The call was made by the President of the Southern Kaduna People's Union (SOKAPU), Honourable Jonathan Asake on Thursday, while briefing newsmen in Kaduna.

The aggrieved communities are crying out. Is there someone out there that will heed their cry? Turi ya kai bango fa! Action must be taken now cuz what may follow may be ugly and uncontrollable!

The call from SOKAPU comes on the heels of a call by a coalition of several groups earlier in April in a press statement.

The groups that made the call earlier are,  Afizere, Amo, Anaguta, Atten, Bache, Berom, Buji, Chokobo, Gus, Irigwe, Jere, Kurama, Lemroro, Tarya, youth organizations, in collaboration with Youth Wing of Christian Association Of Nigeria (YOWICAN) and Women's Wing of CAN,  (WOWICAN), on  April 6,  2022.

But SOKAPU in its call, alleged that  no single day passes without an abduction or killings in Southern Kaduna, . leaving trails of massacre, raping of women and destruction of crops.

"On April 25, killer herdsmen in large numbers invaded Chawai Chiefdom murdering 25 with many missing .

"The attack on Ungwan Rimi lasted for three hours. The invaders proceeded from there to Ungwan Magaji,  which has been attacked four times since 2014," SOKAPU President said.

From reports in several areas that have been attacked in several parts of the state, particularly in Southern Kaduna, where home of paramount ruler of Atyap was burnt, the terrorists operated for over five hours 

He explained that eye witnesses said they saw people in military uniform  leading  the terrorists 

"We have told the military to come clean on this if they were impersonated.

"We heard same reports when communities were attacked in Kagoro last month.

"Reports have been heard of helicopter flying and supplying logistics to terrorists.

"Communities in Niger, Taraba and others have raised same issue of the helicopter, all those communities cannot conspire to lie about the helicopter. We want the military to investigate it," he said.

He lamented that the terrorists are attacking everyone, with no section is left behind.

"Nothing us being done to return people back to their communities.

"The only time I have seen Gov el-Rufai take action is to declare 24 hours curfew.

"Within those curfew, we have witnessed more attacks and the attackers will escape without any brought to justice," he pointed out.

Meanwhile,  the coalition of youth organizations in the Northern Senatorial District of Plateau State in collaboration with Youth Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) and Women's Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN) in their statement issued on April 6, "expressed deep concerns over continued killings, Insecurity, deplorable and degenerating living condition of native Christian communities and villages in crisis affected area, especially in Irigwe of Bassa LGA and other Local Government Area such as Jos North, Jos South, Riyom, Bokkos and Barkin Ladi, where children, women and other unarmed residents have been left to terrorism onslaughts daily carried out by Fulani militias. 

"These, and many others  are highly condemnable.

We equally note the mass displacements,  closure of many schools and children's drop-out of school as a result of the unwearied attacks by the militias and/or bandits throughout the hostility periods with non or less Federal security response we consider as conspiracy of silence on the part of the Security agents, who are deployed guarantee safety of residents and also curb down the concentration of terrorist networks in Irigwe and beyond so that hostilities would have been drastically reduced. 

"We however, witness more of aiding and abetting genocide and other forms of crimes against humanity hence calls for necessary action including overview of the whole security architecture otherwise we will be left with no option than to conclude the continued promotion of Fulani jihad for ethnic cleansing, intolerance, and religious bigotry diminishing and threatening our precarious balance, patriotism as a State and also as a Nation since the system has demonstrated biasness in the ongoing invasions aiming at bringing Irigwe and other affected  native Christians as well as residents to extinction in order to enlarge territorial expansionist land grab agenda of the militias who are currently in occupation of over 102  villages and communities in Plateau State.

"Further concerned that on the Plateau, the locations of the attackers are known and some named Fulani fingered for arrest, but no positive step ever taken thereby depleting out confidence in Operation Safe Haven as a neutral body that can put an end the the crisis. 

"Thus, the OPHS should be be held accountable for the hundred innocent lives killed, houses razed down and other valuables lost to the Militias' pogroms in Irigwe and by extension, other affected areas within the state.

" Understanding that the orchestrated onslaughts of Fulani militias in the Northern Senatorial District particularly, Irigwe Chiefdom in Bassa LGA is, but a microcosm of a bigger picture that is full-time backed by terrorist networks within and outside the State. 

"The indecisive character of Federally controlled Security agents leaves the indigenous and native populations of the Senatorial District and the Church with no option than to suspect Government intentions as it respond lackadaisically to its plight. 

"More so, since there are no programs nor beneficiaries of Victims Support Funds and Rebuilding or Rehabilitation Programs in spite of elaborate and crystal representation in the National Assembly.

Consequently, the coalition YOWICAN and WOWICAN call not only for removal of Maj. Gen. I. S. Ali from Manning the 3rd Armored Division and Operation Safe Haven, but also an independent Panel of Inquiry be set up to investigate his modus operandi that has undoubtedly encouraged ethnic and religious cleansing, which we consider as genocide and crime against humanity.

 "We also beckon on the media, political, economic and industrial Stakeholders within and outside the State to prevail on the State and Federal Governments and all its relevant agencies to, as a matter of urgency, rethink their security deployment strategy/policies and decisions with a view to overhauling Operation Safe Haven  to be replaced with Mobile Police Force, immediate provision of relief materials or palliative to ameliorate the suffering of the people Irigwe, the Zone, State and Nigeria in general. 

"We are also deeply pained over the continued destruction of farmed crops senselessly meted out by way of mischievous grazing and mowing dong in the Zone. This, of course, proves true about the rumours flying out that there will be no harvest of farmed crops in Irigwe, Jos South, Riyom and Bokkos  in 2022 as planned by the militias. 

"We therefore call for dislodgement of all militias and other terrorist elements in and around Irigwe land and beyond. 

"It's worthy of note that our unflinching support and solidarity are with the Plateau State House of Assembly not only on the initiation of Livestock Transformation Program introduced as a bill for a law in the State, but also calling for Anti-open Grazing Bill be equally initiated in order to nip in the bud the ongoing terrorism being unleashed under the guise of open grazing with no observance of restrictions thereby coercing the populace into more hunger and starvation in this economic critical era characterized with hyperinflation commoners cannot contend," the coalition said.

Adamawa South: I will give a better service- Sen Grace picks APC Senate forms

By Tom Garba, Yola

The ongoing Beehive of activities at the All Progressives Congress', APC, party in Abuja with politicians thronging from across the country picking forms for either president, Senator, or house of representatives seats for the coming 2023 general elections is unprecedented.q

Senator Grace Bent from Adamawa Southern Senatorial District was today amidst cheering supporters went to the APC national office and picked her nomination and expression of interests forms vying for the senatorial position of the Southern zone.

Bent who represented the zone from 2007 to 2011 has today told our reporters that a replacement of better representation to give is what she incubated while away from the office.

She vowed to work round the clock to ensure APC gives a good fight for the ousting of the PDP government in Adamawa State.

Grace said that the forms are the thinking of Adamawa people electorates, not her own making as they push her for the National assignment.

"I'm their servant, they just sent me to pick these forms for them, not my interest, it's their own.

" They had the experience of my stewardship, they want a taste of it again they are anxious to feel my selfless service again". She Said

May Day: Prayers Observed For Workers In Kaduna State

May Day: Prayers Observed For Workers In Kaduna State

Ahead of workers Day celebrations, prayers were observed at Sardauna Memorial College Juma'a Mosque Kaduna seeking God intervention for workers in the state.

During his Friday sermon, the Chief Imam Mallam Liman Sani also prayed for workers, peace, unity and development of Kaduna and Nigeria at large.

Leading the delegation, the Chairperson of the Nigeria labour Congress Kaduna State Council Comrade Ayuba Magaji Suleiman said similar prayer was observed last Sunday at a church in the state.

He said the prayers were  for the working class, hitch free May Day celebration and the success of the struggle of workers in the state.

He called on workers to dedicate themselves to their engagements for the development of the state.

Kaduna State Council of the Nigeria labour Congress had organised symposium, prayers as part of activities marking the May Day celebration which is expected this coming Sunday or Monday at Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna

Don calls for Education and Skills aquirsation Programs for Orphans.

By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna.

A University Don Dr, Abdullahi Nuhu Maikudi of Department of Applied Science,of Kaduna state University, (KASU) has call for supporting orphans with Education and Skills aquirsation Programs ,as this will to a long way in addressing some of the challenges been encounter after losing their Parents.

Dr, Maikudi Nuhu how is also a traditional title holder,of Banagan Tudun Wadan Kaduna, further said"through different skills aquirsation Programs,the Orphans can make  to survive the hardship which some Children's encounter, like, carpentry, Motor mechanics, Furnitures panal betting,

The Traditional title holder, Baganan Tudun Wadan Kaduna,is Speaking in Kaduna , when  Abakwa Orphanage Foundation, is distribution Sallah Foodstuffs to Widows, Orphans and other leespriviless people in the Society.

Dr, Nuhu Abdullahi, further explain that this Children are our children there is need for us to put them in all our program and activities, as this will help in reducing the hardship which some time they encounter.

He called for wealthy individuals and Philanthropic in the society to always assist them, with what Allah has blessed themwith, "am calling on the government and non governmental organization to assist orphans,by putting them into various  projects and Program,he explained.

Earlier in his welcome speech the Chairman of Abakwa Orphanage Foundation,Mallam Abubakar lmam,Said" Abakwa Orphanage foundation was form to assist orphans in Abakwa Community, in which so far the foundation have been, assisting Orphans not only giving them Sallah Food and Clothes but also Educating them through paying School fees for some  training them in various skills aquirsation Programs.

Mallam Abubakar lmam , opined that this year as you can see we are giving out to almost 900 People  foodstuffs for Sallah to Widows, Orphans and other leespriviless people in this community.

"And we are calling on the weathy individuals philanthropy in the Society to please assist this Foundation with the little they have so that we can champion this course,and Allah will assist how assist his brother,he concluded.

Don't Field Unstable Politicians, Zone Presidency To South East Group Tells PDP Leadership

The National Working Commitee and the entire leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has been warned not to jeopardize it's chances of winning the 2023 General Election nor put Nigeria's future into uncertainty by fielding candidates that would turn out to work for the ruling party or candidates that would not command the respect of the electorates.

This warning was issued by a Congress of Northern Groups called Arewa Frontier Movement  on Thursday ahead of the screening of PDP Presidential aspirants this weekend 

According to the group, the warning is imperative in view of moves made by some old, expired and recalcitrant politicians whose influences are warning but who seek to impose themselves on the party.

The group warned that there are some politicians who have jumped  from one party to virtually all other parties in search of the presidency and despite the being rejected by the electorates because they have no electoral value, they are still bent on imposing themselves on the PDP .

The statement continued , such politicians were responsible for the breakup of PDP in 2014 and they went ahead to form the APC which oust the PDP from power in 2015

Today, these politicians are back in the PDP for no obvious reasons except to seek for power for self adulation .

Such politicians are not Patriots and have the capacity to destabilizing our great party and country 

We urge the delegates and NWC to put the party and the country before their aspirations and to choose wisely .

Furthermore, GETUP warned the NWC members, stakeholders and PDP delegates not to consider giving party tickets to candidates that were indicted by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission or any other international related bodies with bad records.

According to the group giving presidential, legislative and governorship slots to candidates who have series  of allegation hovering over them may well turn out to be an albatross on the party . Firstly, the PDP would be ridiculed for fielding corrupt candidates and such candidates would be subject of efcc investigation which may cost the party the election.

In addition, the group also warned against alienating the South East by choosing candidates outside the South East geopolitical zone . It noted that in 2019, all candidates from the South East, South West, South South stepped down in respect of the zoning arrangement . However, certain persons are now agitating that the party should do away with zoning stating where the President comes from matters less. These dishonest persons knows too well their hypocritical gestures stinks and their own conscience opposed to their current stance.

It further warned if the South East is shortchanged, the PDP risked loosing the 2023 Presidential elections as over 45% of the PDP supporters are domiciled in that geopolitical zone. Moreso, other democrats within the PDP that are not in sync with such mischief would probably boycott the election or vote the APC in protest .

In the interest of national unity and the survival of the PDP it is imperative that the PDP do the right thing. Good a thing 99% of the aspirants from the Southeast are competent and a few has head ups in credentials above others from the other zones.

BREKETE FAMILY EXPOSE: Mariam, wife of Sen. Ahmodu Ali Arrested for Locking Worker In Dog Cage For 3 Days. …Watch Video of complain

The FCT Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Mariam Ahmodu Ali, the wife of Senator Ahmodu Ali, a former lawmaker and former chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

The arrest was confirmed to Human Rights Radio and Television/Brekete Family on Wednesday, 27 April, 2022 by the Command Spokesperson, DSP Josephine Adeh, who said Mariam was invited on the offence of Violence Against Persons, under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, adding that investigations are ongoing.

It would be recalled that Deborah Babaji Longs, who worked as Mariam’s personal assistant, had reported a case of alleged imprisonment by Mariam Ahmodu Ali, at the Human Rights Radio and Television on Saturday, March, 26, 2022.

Deborah claims was over the ill treatment meted out to her by Mariam Ahmodu Ali due to a house rent transaction, saying she was locked up in a dog cage for three days without food and water before she was rescued after which she came to Brekete Family to lodge her complaint.

Mariam Ahmodu Ali was invited by the Brekete Family for days, after several other workers also brought complain of harassment, abuse and non payment for work done by staff, but she failed to show up.

Mariam has been reported, in the past, to have a penchant for slapping workers, associates and whoever she has misunderstanding with.

Watch Video of complain

1) https://youtu.be/rJRwWrqk7Z4

2) https://youtu.be/ZuE4ANjyPYM

ALTHOUGH YOU LEFT NIGERIA BUT NIGERIA NEVER LEFT YOU: PDP NATIONAL CHAIRMAN SEN DR AYU TO DR ANAKWENZE

Ahead of the Presidential Screening of aspirants which comes up this weekend, top contender for the People's Democratic Party presidential flag bearer, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze has met with members of the National Working Commitee of the party  to unveil his manifesto 

During the meeting, Dr Anakwenze told the NWC that he would not only lead the PDP to victory come 2023 if giving the opportunity but that he would turn the country around by ensuring that there is  24  hours of power supply round the country and that he aim to achieve that feat  using wind, gas, coal and hydro electric sources all of these are in abundance in all the regions of the country .

" We shall ensure that the whole  country enjoys uninterrupted power supply 24 hours a day and all year round  as we have in America and other parts of the world 

"We intend to achieve this fest by tapping power from all regions in the area of strength, gas, coal in the south and dam and wind in the north, he added 

Giving further insight to how the economy of  the country would be revamped under his leadership, the Physician, businessman cum politician, said he would ensue that indigenous companies like Dangote and Innoson are empowered with enabling laws, incentives and grants in order for them to be come more productive, enabling them to be mass employers of labour and for them to be in competition with their foreign counterparts and generate the much needed foreign revenue for the country

The PDP Presidential contender added that,

" God blessed Nigeria with so much resources unlike Europe, Japan and America yet the countries in these continents continues to build ships, manufacture automobiles and sell them to Nigeria ..

"Sirs, we intend to change this ugly trend by making sure that our industry starts manufacturing cars, ships, planes and foods for exports as well with our young people as drivers.

 

"To achieve this,We  will empower indigenous companies to set Nigeria into a productive economy like in the sixties, he said 

He also  said he will create enabling business policies that allows private sectors to thrive so that unemployment will End  permanently 

“Our young people are the most intelligent. I will empower them with free education, skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training so that they will land us to the moon and mass. They have the potential to do this only that they are not been encouraged and enabled”

The National Chairman of the PDP Senator Iyorchia Ayu  in his response congratulated Dr Anakwenze describing his passion as exemplary. He also added that  “although Dr Anakwenze left Nigeria, Nigeria has never left him

Senator Ayu Futher  commended the diaspora aspirant and Nigerians in Diaspora generally urging them to continue to market the country and to ensue that country becomes great through their oversight 

Dr Ayu asked him to continue in his nationwide campaign as only the delegates have the power to elect one of them as the party’s flag bearer promising they all being qualified shall be part of the leadership of a new country when the PDP  takes over the government in 2023 God willing.

Arewa Group Urges PDP to Give Presidential Ticket to Governor Udom Emmanuel

 .

...Says He Remains Best Option to Tackle Nigeria's Problems 

Ahead of the party primaries , group under umbrella of Arewa Coalition for Sustainable Governance (ACSG) has promised to mobilize over fifteen million votes for  Akwa State Governor ,Mr. Udom Emmanuel if the main opposition party , People's Democratic Party gives him the  Presidential Ticket .

The northern based group said it has studied all Presidential aspirants in all the parties and discovered that only Governor Udom Emmanuel is the Nigerian and visionary leader that has the capacity to address the  problems facing Nigeria at the moment .

The Group who disclosed this n a statement jointly signed by Coordinator and Secretary  of the group Alhaji Tukur Musa Abdullahi and Ibrahim Bindawa, said  Nigerians cannot afford to continue to suffer while God has blessed the country with arable land and  resources that if properly harnessed will address the challenges of insecurity, food scarcity, unemployment, industrial growth and development.

While urging PDP to consider the Akwa Ibom Governor as the Flagbearer of the party in the forthcoming 2023 general elections, it said, "This is the time to speak out and mobilize voters to elect the right and focused  leader  with proven track records of performance in the area of governance who could resolve the complex problems confronting the country.

The statement further reads : " We are therefore glad to hear that when   Governor engaged with leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party in Lagos State to boost his aspiration for the 2023 presidency,it was resounding evidence that he is not only competent ,he also has vast knowledge about the economy and solutions to plethora of problems militating against growth over the years." 

"We have always advocated that the next President should have a great understanding of the economy and  detribalised Nigerian who demonstrated ability to unite Nigeria as well as hit the ground  

"After careful  study of our problems as a group of concerned Nigerians, we discovered that  there is an urgent need for professionals such as Akwa Ibom  Governor  to accept to contest the highly exalted seat of President to fix the country.

This is part of many reasons we are calling on Nigerians across the 36 States of the federation to join our group to mobilize  electorate during the forthcoming to vote Governor Udom Emmanuel as the next President come 2023 .

Kaduna NLC Kick-starts May Day Activities With Thanksgiving Service

Ahead of the Workers Day marked on May 1 annually, the NIgeria Labour Congress (NLC) has kick-started activities with a church thanksgiving service on Sunday April 24, 2022 at St. Augustine's Catholic Church, Kaduna.

 

 Leading the State NLC delegation to the service, he council's Secretary, Comrade Christiana John Bawa  said that it is a special thanksgiving service, organized to kickstart activities and create awareness ahead of the May Day billed for next Sunday.

"Today we are here for Thanksgiving prayers ahead of May 1 Workers Day celebration for 2022.

"We want to do this year's edition in a unique way, so we are starting with prayers for workers in Kaduna and NIgeria.

"We are praying for end to insecurity, to  also pray for peaceful transition in next year's general elections.

"Without peace, there would be no progress," she said. 

According to her, they were at the church to  sensitize the public ahead of the May Day activities.

"On Wednesday, we would be having a symposium. On Thursday we are hoping for medical outreach. On Friday we would hold prayers at SMC Mosque

"On Sunday, May Day activities will be marked  at Ahmadu Bello Stadium. It is like our Christmas and Sallah, we mark it in respect of our fallen heroes, who fought for us to have work free day on May 1.

"In Kaduna State, we are calling on the government which was the first to implement minimum wage, to also ensure that some of our members exempted from payroll are captured.

"Every month, we have pockets of complain from members that they were omitted from payroll.

"We want the govt to put all in place to ensure security of workers. Some work in rural areas and have been kidnapped.

"We call on government to secure hospitals and schools in rural areas. We want the government to partner with  communities to secure all hospital and schools in rural areas.

"We are calling on government to conduct free and fair 2023 election, all should be given a level playing ground.

"This time, we are not asking for increment of salary, but that those on payroll should be paid when due," she said.

2023: Governor Bala, Saraki Emerge As Consensus Candidates Of Northern Elders

Bauchi State Governor, His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed has alongside  President of the 8th Senate, Abubakar Bukola Saraki have emerged as the Northern presidential consensus candidates from the North. 

This was contained in a report presented to  Nigeria's former President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida by the Chairman of the consensus Committee, Professor Ango Abdullahi, where he added that the four major presidential aspirants of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) have met and decided to limit the number of aspirants from Northern Nigeria.

Professor Ango added that the aspirants gave IBB the mandate to lead the process for a consensus and have agreed to abide by the outcome of the decision under which a criteria was designed to carryout necessary consultations with elders and leaders across the three geopolitical zones of the North. 

According to Ango Abdullahi,  Bala Mohammed from the North East and Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki from the North Central are to be presented as the Northern presidential aspirants at the moment.

The duo according to the report, would in turn be required to make further concession where one of them would later be presented in the forthcoming primaries. 

While thanking the former President and the aspirants, the committee chairman commended IBB for entrusting them with the conduct of the exercise and expressed hope that all parties involved will continue with mutual consultation aimed at the overall success of the Party. 

He called on the aspirants to work together for further consultations to foster understanding among them and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) community to ensure a rancor free primaries in which all eligible candidates would be free to exercise their rights.

Professor Abdullahi commended the sportsmanship exhibited throughout the exercise by all all those involved and urged continuous cooperation and teamwork to ensure victory for the party.

Stop Salihu Mustapha before he kills Adamawa APC

Opinion: 

By

Abdulrahaman Kwacham

More than 40 million eligible voters on the roll of a political party is no mean feat…and can only come by a dint of hard work.

For this, All Progressives Congress (APC),  the ruling party at the federal level and most of the federation, prides itself as Africa's largest political movement. That is a priceless asset any party could flaunt and shout out from the rooftop. It is to be guarded jealously.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, who chaired the APC Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee released this chest beating figure to the public while receiving the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Chi Tun Chon Hu, at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja.

Can it be said, in all honesty, that every stakeholder in a mass political organisation as the APC works in tandem protecting the party's legacies?

I doubt it because, so far, the politics played by Comrade Salihu Mustapha, the Northeast National Vice Chair of the APC who hails from Adamawa State, is doing more harm than good to the party in his home state. In Adamawa State, he is dreaded as having the full backing of the presidency power brokers, also called Aso Rock Villa cabals by the popular media.

This power connection might have been overrated or exaggerated with the sole purpose to make everyone kowtow to him and do his bidding. With his overbearing influence and name dropping, aspirants are now expected to queue up before him to be "anointed" as the Aso Rock favourite.

An unconfirmed source put the current under-the-table price of the so-called anointing for the office of governor at $15 million. It remains to be seen how many aspirants can afford such a stupendous sum besides the official nomination fee.

The overall effect of all this cash-and-carry game is that President Muhammadu Buhari's dream of free and fair primaries is the gradual erosion of the aforementioned gain of the APC at its last registration and validation exercise. After the brutal loss of  Adamawa to the People's Democratic Party, one expects every hand in the opposition APC to be on the deck to fix the party for winning the crucial 2023 general elections. This fixing is needed more like yesterday because the opposition has been in disarray since the buildup to 2019. And so it has remained. So the Northeast Vice Chairman should be building, not destroying as is the case now.

I implore the APC national secretariat  at Abuja to use their good offices to apply restraint on Comrade Mustapha now before it is too late. Otherwise he will kill the party before the general election.

 

Human memory is so short that nothing is learnt from history. In the buildup to the APC national convention, Comrade Mustapha was literally an orphan until a politician from Adamawa stood for him and he received the all-important endorsement that earned the national post he occupies. Many politicians who knew his backstabbing tendencies and antecedents had deserted him to his fate. Now he is back to his game. To those who helped, "I told you so" is the refrain they are getting.

 

Well meaning stakeholders had thought Mustapha would galvanise human and material resources and work assiduously to actualise the all-important unity of the APC in Adamawa and Taraba and the the entire Northeast APC. The party lost 2019 for lack of unity.

I'm constrained to use this medium to call out Comrade Mustapha to retrace his steps before it is too late. Also, we urge President Muhammadu Buhari, and the National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu not to turn a blind eye on him in order to gain power in Adamawa and Taraba. Otherwise, APC will be history in these two states in 2023.

 Abdulrahaman Buba Kwacham

An All Progressives Staunch loyalist

Aspiring a Senatorial seat of Adamawa 

Northern Zone

Many Runners, One Winner: Only Bindow Can Beat PDP in Adamawa

By Tom Garba, Yola

It's time for pre-nomination campaigns and political activities have taken the centre stage in Adamawa, northeast Nigeria. The environment here is charged with aspirants having a field day crisscrossing the length and breadth of the state.

For the first time in this dispensation, I am witnessing a stellar constellation of gubernatorial aspirants who, in every sense of the word, qualify.

In All Progressives Congress (APC), there are heavyweights including a woman, who are jostling for the party's ticket, with each hoping to win the primaries to face the incumbent People's Democratic Party (PDP).

One cardinal truth to face though is the stark reality that PDP is the government in power and office. Therefore, APC must shop for the best among its best to win. The big question is, who can fit this bill?

A step or two back in time will reveal an ugly scenario that led to the loss of the gubernatorial seat in 2019. By then, APC had gone in disarray, polarised along primordial lines. This rocked the smooth sail of APC.

Comatose as the party was, one can still say all hope is not lost, considering the who's who in the party…the big names in national politics are still in the party. The governorship aspirants are all credible, able, and fit to dislodge the PDP. But APC needs unity and sportsmanship to accomplish that task.

Among the good people aspiring to be the governor are young energetic men like Alhaji Ahmadu Hamman (Dan Maje Adamawa) who came from the blues earlier in 2021 and aroused the political tempo with good criticism of the present Adamawa government. The barely 37-year-old ingenious Adamawa son of the soil is a scion of the extended traditional ruling clan of the Fombina emirate is hope to the youth. He believes in the "not too young to run" agenda set by young Nigerians who believe it's their time to participate in leadership.

Dan Maje is a business magnate with tentacles in diverse fields. Hamman is one of the many party faithful who desires quality leadership for the good people of Adamawa.

Abdullahi Ahmed Musa, an Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, graduate and highly experienced clearing and forwarding agent also joined the lineup of wannabes. The man popularly known as Mr Speaker, an excellent orator, stormed the stage of Adamawa politics. With his replacement slogan, he claimed he saw beautiful glorious dawn on the state's destiny; he vowed to change the economy of the state with a zero allocation policy. Mallam Ahmed who is into estate valuation has billboards and posters all over Adamawa State, preaching his replacement mission.

Umar Mustapha Madawaki (Otumba) is no doubt a man with letters, and experience in diverse fields. He was a teacher in high school and an oil and gas magnate. He is a household name in Adamawa politics.

Otumba is always in the news for good reasons. To change the government, which he believes, is shortchanging the masses with laudable projects that are needless because of the hidden agenda of syphoning public funds. He is a renowned critic of the PDP government under Rt Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. He once ran for the office of senator for Adamawa Central district.

Another governorship aspirant, Wafari Theman Dallatu, is a middle-aged ex-member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly. The reputed party loyalist is the RIFAN state coordinator after he has served APC as the secretary. Pharmacist Dallatu's aspiration received a boost from the younger generation because of his youth inclusion strategy.

The former lawmaker who represented Hong is making waves, he is moving in grand style to get the APC ticket. This man was said to have an endorsement from a politician heavyweight linked to the Aso Rock Villa cabal who has vouched to anoint him a consensus candidate.

An Iron Lady in her own right, Engr Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed (Binani), has also thrown her heart in the ring. Binani had set and broken many records. She is the only female aspirant from the Adamawa Central Senatorial zone and is the heroine of the masses. She is a cousin to the First Lady, Mrs Aisha Buhari.

Binani once represented the people of Yola South, Yola North and Girei at the House of Representatives. Her tenure was seen as a productive one with excellent representation. The heroine is the incumbent Senator representing the Adamawa Central district.

This woman has worked on sponsored many bills that became laws. Chief among those bills are the ones that converted the Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola, into a conventional university. Another is the one that changed the status of the Federal Medical Centre, Yola, to a teaching hospital. The former businesswoman has also worked on a bill that will upgrade the Garki Dermatology Clinic in Abuja to a federal institution.

Her constituency projects including rural people empowerment programmes abound in every local government of the state. This woman is and will remain a beacon of hope for the Adamawa people.

Rt Hon Abdulrazak Sa'ad Namdas is a House of Representatives member for Toungo, Ganye, Jada, and Mayo Belwa serving his second term. Namdas is also young, able and versed as the House committee chairman on information and the defence committee.

Namdas served the government of Boni Haruna as the Press Secretary is not a pushover. He grew his political wings from the media because of his political prowess from being a media executive and was tipped for a running mate of Engr Marcus Nathana Gunduri in the SDP party in 2011. Today, he has gone far and made his face and his governorship aspirations much wider than one could imagine. His claim of being the frontline aspirant is connected to how far he has gone in meeting all critical stakeholders irrespective of party affiliation, intimating them of his dreams.

The one and only giant among the APC aspirants is Senator Muhammadu Umaru Jibrilla (Bindow). He is the immediate past governor and recently declared his intention to return to the Yola Government House.

Senator Jibrilla hopes to come back to renew his constitutional mandate for a second term in office. A former Senator for the Adamawa North zone. His experience in politics has been established and his success as a business magnate helped him to manage the resources of Adamawa State better than is the case under PDP.

Of all the APC aspirants, Bindow needs little introduction. He has paid his dues over the years in making sure APC regained its lost ground and acceptance by the entire people of Adamawa State. While still a governor, Bindow served the state with a sense of responsibility. He worked the roads (over 370). From 2015 to 2019 Jibrilla served the people of Adamawa with an unprecedented infrastructure development record. He set the standard that any incoming government has to follow suit.

He has control of the party structure in many of the local governments. From the Northern zone of Adamawa where the incumbent Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri hails, he controlled the party apparatus with uncommon dexterity.

Knowing the weight, strengths and weaknesses of these aspirants, one will easily ask, who will match Governor Fintiri? If it is not Bindow who else? He has a record that can be matched to dislodge the present government. He is a Muslim from the Njanyi ethnic group. The incumbent is also a Marghi Muslim. Bindow is from Mubi North Local Government Area, extending his political weight of support to Mubi South and Maiha by 100 per cent. These three LGAs have over 250,000 eligible voters. The APC is intact, with no major defections. Rather, there was an addition of a serving Senator to the APC fold from PDP. Fintiri who is from Madagali Local Government Area seems to lack control of the PDP party because under his watch his linesmen and notable politicians like Former Governor Bala James Ngilari and Chubado Babbi Jabbi have defected from PDP to APC. The eligible voters of Madagali who are less than 60,000 are far below the over 100,000 voters of Mubi North where Bindow has total control.

By a simple analysis, Bindow is the best among the APC  aspirants to be seen as the political iroko tree that can give the PDP sleepless nights. This can only be possible if the APC family has a thoughtful and inward unity of wanting to win the 2023 election under the clear view of taking back power void of personal interest and sentiments.

If it's not Bindow, there is a possible outrage of power lost. Good as the other aspirants are, their weaknesses of overall general acceptance can never be compared with Bindow's who as the immediate past governor has been tested and should be trusted.

Some may argue why he was not able to win the 2019 election. Serious political observers said there was no way APC would have made headway when all the critical stakeholders in the party went into the election as a divided house. In 2019, Bindow was an orphan whose political friends, supporters, and fathers had deserted him over a serious intraparty feud with the presidency having a passionate interest to oust him.

As it stands, if APC wants to feel a sign of victory, Bindow has what it takes to give a good fight. Without the party coming together to be a unity opposition, even if it's Bindow no way. APC can make a good impact in the 2023 general elections. But with Bindow rolling out the affairs of the party as a good aspirant, it is him and only him that can bring success to the APC family, considering the glaring factors and the reality on the ground.

So if it is not Bindow, no one else can defeat Fintiri in the 2023 governorship polls in Adamawa.

Tom Garba is Adamawa based Journalist, wrote this Opinion from Jimeta-Yola

He can be reached through this means:

Phone:08172570959

Email:tomgarba5@gmail.com

Ex-APC Scribe, Akpanudoedehe Joins A'Ibom Guber Race, Promises To End Poverty

 Former national secretary of the defunct Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator John James Akpanudoedehe has declared for the governorship race of Akwa Ibom state.

The former Minister of State Federal Capital Territory (FCT), however, promised to end poverty, ensure even development of the state and bring prosperity to his people.

Senator Akpanudoedehe declared Saturday at a grand reception to receive him back to the state after his service as the National Secretary of the party's CECPC at Ibom Hall, Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

A large crowd of party faithful that thronged the venue, took turns to plead with him to rescue the state by contesting for the governorship, a call the former CECPC Secretary accepted and agreed to carry the flag of the party at the 2023 governorship election in the state.

Accepting the call, Akpanudoedehe said: "I want to accept your call. I hereby accept to run for the office of the governor of Akwa Ibom State.

"My focus will be how to deliver my people from poverty. I shall embark on a poverty alleviation program. N1m grants will be given to 1000 people in each local government area of the state.

"It is time to empower the people and not to continue to depend on stipends. We will make Akwa-Ibom the hub for technology."

He promised to give priority attention to the state urban renewal and development, particularly in Eket local government, alleviate the suffering of pensioners in the state and establish primary industries in Uyo, Eket and Ikot Ekpene. 

 Akpanudoedehe who was appointed Secretary of the defunct CECPC of the APC on June 25, 2021, was full of appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for allowing him to serve as national secretary of the party and other stakeholders who didn't reject my nomination.

APC National Vice Chairman, South-South, Chief Victor Giadom who stood in for the National Chairman of the party, Sen. Abdullahi Adamu at the ceremony challenged party leaders and members in the state to team up and work for the victory of the party at the next general elections.

" With the crowd here today is clear proof that the APC here is viable and strong. Nobody can say we aren't strong in Akwa-Ibom. Let us keep working together. We are close to the election and this isn't time for us to fight ourselves but work together for the actualisation of APC success in Akwa-Ibom. From the leaders I have seen here, the APC will bring victory to us.

"Let us come together and face our common enemy. Let us work together so that we can bring victory. I will like to come back here with the APC sitting in the Government House. I urge you to go back to your respective units to bring victory to APC. We can deliver APC to Akwa-Ibom," Giadom motivated the crowd. 

In the same vein, former Secretary to the State Government and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, (OGFZA), Umana Okon Umana, appealed to members to remain focused and avoid distraction from the race to the Government House next year.

The party state chairman, Obong Augustine Ekanem debunked the claim of division in the party, he insisted the party was intact under his leadership and was ready to take over government from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

"APC is one, APC isn't dividend. Everyone is encouraged to go and campaign so that we can defeat PDP. The PDP is our enemy, we don't have one within. There is no victory inside APC, the only victory we have is how to defeat PDP. God will take us to our destination.

Group Demands Arrest Of 'Blackmailers' Behind Purported Planned Protest Against Emefiele

The Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations for Transparency in Governance, has refuted claims by one Willy Ezegwu, calling for protest against the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Godwin Emefiele on 'malicious grounds.'

The group asked security agencies to immediately arrest the said Willy Ezegwu and Ali Abacha to stop public disturbance.

The coalition of CSOs also described the purported planned protest as a blackmail tool by the organisers and some other "misguided elements", saying its name been used without its knowledge. 

A statement signed by one Willy Ezugwu had asked Governor Emefiele to resign or face a protest slated for 21st of April, 2022. It has no backing of the Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, infact, we are not part of it. 

The statement read in part: "If these are not, by Thursday, April 21, the CNPP in conjunction with the civil society coalition will be occupying the CBN headquarters until Mr. Emefiele resigns or denounces the purported distracting ongoing 2023 presidential campaign on his behalf by groups."

But denouncing the threat through a statement on Friday in Abuja, signed by its Director of Anti-Corruption, Bagudu Mohammed Kudu, the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria also denied Ali Abacha as its spokesman. 

Kudu, the anchor of the coalition of CSOs for Transparency in Governance described Willy Ezegwu as an embarrassment to the Civil Society family, adding that the said Ezegwu lacks morality and consciousness to call for protest against any Nigerian at the moment "as his integrity has degraded to zero level."

Kudu asked Nigerians to dismiss the purported protest, saying "the brains behind the statement are known jesters who only thrive in blackmail of public office holders for survival."

Mohammed Kudu also, call for the immediate arrest of the said Willy Ezegwu and Ali Abacha for inciting protest against  public peace.

"The apex body of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria also call for the arrest of the perpetual blackmailer, Willy Ezegwu for inciting protest against public peace after hobnobbing with a proscribed organisation. 

We have to place it on record that the CBN Governor Emefiele has not committed any sin. And it is not also a sin for well-meaning Nigerians to call on him to serve the country in higher capacity as President.

"Severally, various organisations have publicly declared that Governor Emefiele knew nothing about the posters and branded vehicles across the country, but Nigerians who believe in the capacity and capability of Governor Emefiele to transform the economy of Nigeria if given higher responsibility, are actually responsible for the posters and branded vehicles.

"We understand that opposition political party and some individuals are been threatened by the show of love Nigerians have shown Governor Emefiele in the recent time, especially the pressure on him to declare for presidency, hence the recruitment of some blackmailers for a dirty job such as Mr. Ezegwu to tarnish the image of the CBN governor."

While challenging Mr. Ezegwu to test the might of the law,  Kudu said "publicising a notice of protest before the actual event shows that Mr. Ezegwu is not ready for any protest but an attempt to blackmail the CBN Governor at a time that Nigerians are yearning for him to succeed President Muhammadu Buhahri."

2023: NRM gov aspirant promises to make Rivers fishing hub

Mr Sobomabo Jackrich, Rivers governorship aspirant on the platform of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), has promised to make the state Nigeria’s biggest fishing hub.

Jackrich made the promise in Abuja on Wednesday shortly after picking the governorship expression of interest and nomination forms at the party’s national secretariat.

He said that he would create zero interest cooperatives for fish farmers and provide other trading tools to boost fish farming and trading.

“My vision for Rivers is to make it an enviable state when compared to other Southern riverine states in the country.

“Rivers state as we all know is a riverine community and we are also largely surrounded by rivers, hence the need to enhance fish farming.

“When I become the governor, I will take advantage of our natural resources and turn Rivers into Nigeria’s biggest fishing hub.

“I will introduce a structure where fishermen and women would form clusters and groups where proper data would be documented for the establishment of zero interest cooperatives,’’ Jackrich said.

According to him, the cooperatives will be strictly for fishermen and women and fish traders to ease them of high trader loans from banks and other cooperatives.

“The establishment of the cooperatives would also address issues of unemployment and encourage the youth to venture into the trade,” he said.

Jackrich said that the aim of the zero-interest loan for fish farmers was to promote fishing culture and encourage fish farmers to advance into fish branding, packaging and exportation.

He promised to also boost the state’s agricultural sector by implementing his manifesto, strategies and policies for agricultural enhancement when he becomes the state governor.

Jackrich pledged to ease the process of accessing pensioners’ retirement benefits by introducing a 100 per cent technology-based formula into the state pension scheme.

He said that pensioners would no longer be subjected to rigorous processes while trying to get their retirement benefits.

Jackrich said he would also address other issues bedeviling the state such as unemployment and insecurity, amongst others.

The National Secretary of the party, Alhaji Ibrahim Danbuba advised the aspirant to adhere strictly to the party’s rules and regulations and uphold the mandate to deliver on good governance when he emerges as governor.

He also advised the aspirant to engage in grassroots campaign to familiarise and win the heart of the people ahead of the governorship election.

The National Woman Leader of the party, Mrs Aisha Aliyu, appealed to the aspirant to change the narrative by ensuring 35 per cent affirmative for women in government in the state.

(NAN)

Adamawa: Reject your FG appointments else you're not eligible to contest-Group chide Binta, Nyako

Youths of Adamawa State have chided Senator Binta Masi Garba who have represented the Northern District, and Senator Abdulaziz Nyako who have also represented the central zone to shield their senatorial ambitions by rejecting the appointment of being the board chairman of the National waterways inland Authority (NIWA) and Member Nigeria port Authority recently appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Youths under the auspices of Progressives Youth of Adamawa (PYA) told the former Senators they received statutory appointments that could not allow them to contest any political elective office unless they resigned

The group who made a copy of their press statement available to this medium and signed by its acting Chairman, Alhaji Musa Shuwa begged both Masi and Aziz not to deprive others by hoarding the appointment at the same time vying for elective office.

They said their moves to contest the Adamawa Northern and Central Senatorial seats are against the Constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria.

"Under the doctrine of necessity, moral and ethical values Senator Binta and Aziz did not support to aspire for any position. President Muhammadu Buhari just appointed them Chairman of NIWA, and NPA board member,  five-year term they signed to serve Nigerians, coming this time around for them to set up an agenda to contest will destroy many APC strategies of winning in the state.

" We are trying to consolidate victory in 2023 under the party's drive of unity, Binta and Aziz should tender their resignation letters and a better person from Adamawa should replace them so they will not waste chances for other people." The statement read

The Youth in their letter said Masi's declaration today at the Civic Center in Michika was a show of certainty that 2023 is going to be a keenly contested between quite a several aspirants in APC.

The development PYA said as bonafide sons and daughters of All Progressives Congress is not healthy for the intra politics of the party in Adamawa state.

Advising them to take a look at the chances of how APC will eventually win the senatorial seat without much stress knowing the fact PDP the ruling party are neck bend to take over the seat from APC.

"We are not saying that our Sister and Brother should not contest but their contest entails a lot of things; they may make us lose the NIWA position and board member they are currently occupying, the interest in the senate position they are looking for might result to APC losing it because of the divergence interest.

" In APC alone former Governor Bala James Ngilari, incumbent Senator Ishaku Abbo, Hamisu Idris Medugu from the North and many people in the central zone are aspiring, a host of others are all aspiring for the same seat which may lead to serious internal squabbles that will make APC unable to win or lose many seats.

"We are therefore calling on Senator Binta Masi Garba and Aziz Nyako to backtrack and sheath their interest or quickly reject from their recent appointments for competent persons to replace them from Adamawa state.

" We are concerned about how their decision will lead APC in Adamawa to a worst-case scenario for losing out totally from getting the NIWA position,NPA board member." The youth said

Recall the civic Center in Michika filled to its brim as Senator gallantly stood up and reiterated her daring plans to contest again.

Her expression of interest speech read:

"Today, I stand before you to declare my interest to represent this great constituency as its senator in the 10th Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We have come a long way together and we have endured and enjoyed our journey together. We have many things in common; the desire to change the narratives of misrepresentation again and put our constituency in the comity of constituencies that truly enjoy the dividends of democracy being the priority.

"Four years ago, we dared to dream and actualize it. Today, we dare to dream again and have a representation we can all depend on. This is a movement whose time has come and it will take your support to make it work.

"We laid the foundation in the 8th Assembly and we are poised, now more than ever, to continue what we have started and consolidate on the entrenching the hope for our future and a greater Adamawa North.

Thank you so much, indeed."

Nyako has like wise last week stormed the APC state Secretariat and declared his interest to run again for Adamawa Northern central District.

Arewa Frontier Movement Rallies Support For Dr.Anakwenze

Anakwenze will get Nigeria working in 3 months - Mustapha Saye 

• He has all it takes to bring Nigeria out of the economy blues - Mustapha Saye

• It is the turn of the South East, Anakwenze is the man - Odeh Akatu 

By:  Mike Odeh James - Abuja

 

As the campaign for the 2023 Presidential Election hit top gear, Nigerians from all works of all lives and People's Democratic Party members in particular have been urged to support Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze's ambition to become Nigeria's next President.

National Coordinator of Arewa Frontier Movement, Comrade Mustapha  gave the charge at Wadata Plaza on Monday 11 April 2023 when Dr Anakwenze stormed PDP secretariat to submit his form indicating that he would be contesting for the office of the Presidency come 2023.

Comrade Saye, while speaking to journalists, said that Dr.Anakwenze would get Nigeria working again within 3 months if he is elected as President of Nigeria .He stressed that going by his track records as an administrator

He further stressed that 

"If elected as President, Anakwenze will create jobs and develop a world standard education in the country and make sure  health sector is also upgraded to international standard.

The Coordinator of the Arewa group also  said that in order to stop hunger and penury in the land, agriculture would take top priority with agricultural mechanisation and provision of seedling and fertilizers as the major fulcrum of Anakwenze's polices .

Comrade Mustapha Saye, the National Coordinator of Arewa Frorobt further urged all the Presidential aspirants in the PDP to step down their ambitions in favour of South East candidates in the spirit of fairness and equality.

"We at the Arewa Frontier Movement wholeheartedly support the Onowu - Dr Anakwenze to be the President come 2023 in the interest of justice and fair play.

"With that being said, we studied the action plan of the aspirant and we believe that he has the capacity to take Nigeria to the next level . I therefore call on other contestants to give Dr Anakwenze the chance to make Nigeria a better country again.

The National Secretary of the group Okpani Odeh Akatu said the PDP  needs to do the needful by zoning it's presidehtial slot to the South East following the declaration of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar that he would support the party if it gives its ticket to the South East.

Okpani Akatu said that the South East supported former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1998, it supported Umaru Musa Yar Adua in 2007 and Goodluck Jonathan in 2011.

"Obasanjo  who is from the South West did 8 years, Yar Adua from the North West did 2 years and Goodluck Jonathan from the South South did 5 years plus .It is only the South East that has been left out of the equation. If Party rewards loyalty then the Southeast should unequivocally be rallied around for the party candidature.

"Incidentally, the South East is the hub and nerve centre of PDP.If So if the PDP zones it's ticket to South East, the support of the party would grow immensely.

 He then urged Governor Nyesome  Wike and Ayo Fayose to step down their ambitions and support aspirants from South East adding that it is the turn of that geopolitical zone to produce the President .

I want to appeal to our leaders such as Wike and Fayose to support aspirants from South East so that collectively  Nigerians from all the geopolitical zones of the country can retake their country from the APC .

He further stressed that the South East also have a strong contestant in person of Dr Anakwenze,

Going by Anakwenze's track record, if given the ticket, he would beat the APC candidate and restore Nigeria's economy

 Says the Southeast Aspirant will work together to present Nigerians the best choice for the job•

Effium Killings: Ebonyi Group Condemns Attack On Ezza Refugees' Camp

*demands re-arrest, prosecution of 31 released detainees

The Association of Ebonyi State Indigenes in the Diaspora (AESID) has expressed sadness over the recent attack of a community harbouring some victims of the massacre in Effium community, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

 

According to media reports, the recent bloodletting left many dead bodies on their trail, as the community was yet to recover from the unfortunate incident.

In a statement released to newsmen Tuesday in Abuja by the AESID President, Ambassador Paschal Oluchukwu, urged Governor Dave Umahi-led government to bring the perpetrators of the latest killings to justice.

The diaspora group also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the remanded Catholic Priest by security agencies within 48 hours. 

Oluchukwu said: "We sadly recall that the crisis in Effium, which started since January 2021 and between Effium and Ezza-Effium has claimed many lives and led to many Ezza-Effium people taking refuge in Ohaogelode community and other locations in the State.

 

"Although the Police was yet to make an official statement detailing an account of the unfortunate incident, we however reminsce that, a video of the said incident circulating online showed that at least two persons were killed and some houses razed.

"In the said video, a victim was burnt to death while a building was still on fire while another dead victim, a pregnant woman, could be seen in the video with matchete cut wounds all over her body."

The statement claimed that "governor Umahi-led government on has continued to pretend that it is working for the peace of the troubled community whereas, it is in essence aiding and abetting the heinous activities of the Uffiom warlords. 

"We have stated it severally in the media that Umahi has been using the Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, one Clement Odaa- a native of Uffiom who has severally been accused and found to have used his official position to ferry arms and weapons and compromise the the peace and security moves by concerned parties and the government to continue the war while pretending to be waving an olive branch.

"This our position and fears is further heightened and validated by a press statement credited to the said Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Clement Odah which pretended to have condemned the attack.

Despite being the Chief Security Officer of the Ohaukwu Local Government Area, Odaa's statement condemning the incident in strong terms as usual and reassuring of all that no stones will be left unturned to unravel the true circumstances that led to such avoidable loss of lives and properties has become his habitual, perennial and ironical way of celebrating anytime his people wantonly attacks and kills Ezza people.

"AESID wonders how Odaa who was reported by the State government to be in Police custody and undergoing investigations for his infamous and ignoble roles since the beginning of the over one year old crises could claim that "Council has initiated a spirited and discreet investigation to unveil the perpetrators of the act and ensure that justice is done."

AESID, however, challenged the Umahi-led government in the state to tell the world the rational behind the release of "31 remanded Uffiom youths arrested with various guns and other weapons some months ago while they went to attack an Ezza settlement in Effium? 

"How can a government claim through an entire Exco decision that the suspects were 'brainwashed' into carrying arms? Who brainwashed them and have those who procured these arms for them been brought to book? Were the suspects successfully disarmed and thorough investigations carried out by the security agencies?

"AESID continues to maintain that so long as the Umahi administration is not keen in altruistically answering and addressing some of these questions posed regarding the ongoing carnage in Effium, it cannot be exonerated by reasonable Ebonyians from having a hand, enabling and ennobling or at least being a fifth columnist in the crisis.

"Yet, the same Umahi government has continued to detain a Catholic priest, Rev. Timothy Ngwu for merely extending his corporal works of mercy to his stranded Parishioners in the troubled area.

"It is the wisdom of this apolitical, non-profit organization to immediately demand the re-arrest and full-scale, unbiased trial of the said Odaa and indeed all those who have a hand in the killings and particularly the release of the 31 Uffiom suspects."

ANAKWENZE CAMPAIGN ORGANIZATION PRAISES ATIKU ABUBAKAR, CHARGES PDP ASPIRANTS TO EMULATE HIM

Ahead of the People's Democratic Party's presidential primaries and in line with the mounting calls for the PDP to zone its presidential ticket to the South East,

The Anakwenze Campaign Organization has commended the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for considering the option to drop his presidential ambition and support the party if it zones the Presidential slot to the South East.

Speaking through the Office of the Director General, Mr. Shedrach Oka who is the Head of Implementation of the Anakwenze Campaign Organization, on Monday 11 April 2022 said that 

If Alhaji. Atiku 's pledges to drop his presidential ambition and to support the party if PDP zones Presidential ticket to South East, that would be a patriotic call and a call for unity of the party and the country.

Speaking further, 

Mr. Shedrach Oka called on other presidential aspirants to emulate the bold and patriotic step of the former Vice President adding that it would strengthen the party ahead of the 2023 General Election.

" We at the Anakwenze Campaign Organization urge presidential aspirants from other regions that in the interest of fairness, equity and reciprocity to follow the bold step of the Presidential candidate of our party in the last presidential election by supporting candidate from the South East. This would further give the party an added impetus to win the Presidency in 2023.

Oka went on to highlight why Nigerians and PDP should support the candidature of the Onowu of Abagana Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze an American Trained Physician, Philanthropist per excellence, Farmer, Industrialists and Youth and Women empowerment enthusiast.

It is also pertinent that we remind Nigerians and the PDP that the party cannot win the 2023 Presidential Election just by zoning its ticket to the South East.

He continued, "The PDP needs a strong candidate who can unite party members across all the geopolitical zones and across all the tribal cum religious divides. 

" The party also needs someone who would mobilize all Nigerians ahead of 2023, the party would also need someone who can match the candidates of the ruling party in terms of global acceptability, record breaking achievements and we are proud to say that Dr. Anakwenze is the perfect candidate to spur the PDP unto victory come 2023, Oka added

Adamawa Youths call on Grace Bent to contest Southern Senatorial seat

.....say she remains the mass's" beacon of hope

By Tom Garba, Yola

It was a passionate call, it was desperation by the Youths of Adamawa Southern Senatorial District beckoning on Senator Grace Jackson Bent, CON, to contest the Senate seat from the zone.

The Youth today converged in Mupe Hotel Numan in their numbers and begged Bent never to contemplate vying for the senate seat.

The Youths who came from the nine local government areas constituting the Senatorial zone said, Grace is a former Senator of the zone that has left an indelible mark of reference while serving as a Senator.

The Youth took turns to express her capacity and eligibility to win the 2023 election under the All Progressives Congress (APC) party.

A councilor aspirant of Dwam ward, Pwanoelise Lagapiya said he is a living testimony of Grace's anointing to lead and can't support any aspirant from anywhere other than the Grace.

According to him, she is one Lioness who is agile in safeguarding her cubs to greatness.

"The lives of people Grace turned around from grass to Grace are too many for me to mention, I'm one of those she is supporting to be the next councilor of my ward. Go and find out during her term, as a witness the zone experienced a huge turn around in human and physical development." He said 

Baba Iyali a supporter of Bent from ward 3 in Numan Local Government extended the call to all Numan APC stakeholders to rally around Grace to ensure she gets the ticket of the party.

He said no one among those aspiring to be Senator from that zone is fit, capable, and has all the capacity to win elections from the opposition ruling party of PDP.

Another Youth from Jada local government, Alhaji Sani Chubado Jada said the legacy of Bent remains alive since she left office.

Jada said Bent remains the best politician easy to carry for the Senatorial campaign if APC Party wants to win the area.

"Thank God we have a woman who has a record of achievements in the zone, she was tested and found trusted. We are calling her back to continue the good works she has started. No one can do it better than the way she did it, her absence has made us realize the difference, it is a huge gap with great representation defects for our people for almost a decade.

" Ma, come and handle the mantle of leadership, we now understand it's you that can do the job well, it is you that can serve our people better," Sani said

The convener of the Youth after extensive deliberation endorsing her for the 2023 senatorial assignment, Mr. Stanley Demsa read a communique that the youth and the entire people of the Southern zone are calling on her to contest.

He said Senator Grace Bent is a nationalist who has played a national role in making sure Nigeria remains an indivisible country that informed the decision of her merited the CON national award.

While calling on the Youths and the people of the Southern zone to critically consider Grace as the magic woman that will play the magic role in ousting the PDP government in Adamawa State, he said the one-time senator of the area has remained an indispensable politician and therefore decided to endorse for 2023 Senatorial assignment.

Bent who is well known as Goggo Grace, a name she bagged as an honor to recognize her political and philanthropic prowess and lifestyle, Mr. Demsa said the Youth have deeply and widely consulted and found out that her political popularity is still intact that can give an overwhelming victory in 2023.

He advised the APC senior stakeholders to consider Bent's calling to contest as an embedded chance for APC to have an overall winning in all the elective positions in Adamawa, he said the APC's elder statesmen support is needed in the interest of all party men.

"Our endorsement and call to Grace to run the 2023 Southern zone Senatorial District was after our careful and logical observations that she still earned the tested and trusted respect. She is still the Mother and Sister to many, holding the veteran political actor label in terms of humanitarian services with a passion to serve humanity.

" We have seen the negative impact of her absence, we are convinced and we are no longer going to be deceived by incompetent politicians with zero performance for the Southern zone.

"All we have now are desperadoes and specialists using campaigns of Calumny and anti-people propaganda to score political cheap points. We are better enlightened now than before, no more hate speech of whatever type against Grace will be accepted, it will no longer sell, I bet you. We are now battle-ready to bring her back to power come 2023 God's willing. We will not allow our people to be disenfranchised because of baseless sentiments." Stay vowed.

He continued to say that once Grace accepts this clarion call, 2023 is a done deal, a revival of good work for our people will surface from the blues like a miracle because she will come with the capacity to salvage the zone with her projects, human capital development, humanitarian services, employment with meaningful legislative contributions as she is known for years ago.

"The Youth of Adamawa are behind this project, we are ready to work for this project to the end. We are calling on the leadership of Adamawa state APC,  Southern zone delegates, and the entire officials of the party to critically look into her capacity as the only person that has a high winning chance for the party to win elections come 2023." Stanley.

Demsa warned that the national assembly and the Senate assignment is not Church work, anybody that thinks God calls the person should go to church and Work, and those that God called to work as politicians should stay there for the good of all people.

"Like Grace has her called long ago for the national assembly assignment, she remains in that call till today, we believe in her call that's why we are reminding her of her call back to senate in 2023," Stanley added

Gov. Ayade's Defection : Court Judgement is victory for democracy -Arewa Group

Arewa People's Democratic Coalition (APDC) has commended judgement of  the  Federal High Court sitting in Abuja for  dismissing  the suit Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), filed to declare the seat of Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State and his Deputy, Ivara Esu, vacant, following their defection to the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC.

The said Governor Ayade  was validly elected on the platform of the PDP in 2015 and  defected to the APC on May 20, 2021, along with his deputy, but  Peoples Democratic Party took the Governor to court seeking an order directing him and his Deputy, Ivara Esu, to vacate office following their defection to the All Progressives Congress

According to the northern based  group,the   judgement delivered by Justice Taiwo Taiwo,which  held  that defection to another political party was not stated as one of the grounds for the removal of either a governor or his deputy is a 'Victory for Democracy' .

In a statement signed  by the Coordinator of Arewa People's Democratic Coalition , Comrade Mohammed Bagudu  praised the judgement, which ruled that Governor Ben Ayade and his Deputy could not be sacked from their positions, other than through statutory procedures that were stipulated in sections 180, 188 and 189 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

The Group in the statement noted that "The claim by PDP that  votes at the election and elections are won by political parties and not their candidate or the candidates sponsored at the election by the political parties was not only debunked, but dismissed in line with constitution.

While congratulating Governor for victory at the court , it further stated, "And now , Nigerians  can see clearly now that PDP ran to court  out of desperation  ,but we are highly elated that the court failed to heed to her frivolous claims .

"We stand by our earlier resolution as members of a Northern group that have come strongly to  supporting Governor Ben Ayade for his avowed commitment to good governance in Cross River State .

"With this judgement , we are fully ready to hit the grounds in our bid to embark on house-to-house campaign for the man we have identified  with a track records of performance and capacity to unite the country."