2023 Presidency: DOFF stages 5000 persons' roadwalk for Osinbajo

By Matthew Denis Abuja

The megacity of Abuja was agog on Saturday as the Dolapo Osinbajo Friends and Fans (DOFF) embarked on a 5000 persons spurred rally towards the actualization of the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo's  Presidential ambition under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the  2023 general elections.

  

The APC had postponed its Presidential Primary slated for Monday this week till June 6th, 2022 considering the appealed by Political parties which led the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to extend the conduct of their primaries to June 9th, 2022

The rally which began at the Osinbajo's Campaign Office in Wuse 2 had convoy movement of vehicles and some people trekking with seemless Security arrangement for kilometers to the Unity Fountain in Maitama Area of Abuja. 

Thousands of the DOFF members were seen in their customized Tshirts and face caps chatting songs, dancing to the tune of the loud musical instruments while distributing flyers to the members of the public along the major most busy  city roads in Wuse and Garki areas of Abuja cajoling them to support Prof. Osinbajo's Ambition.

The Director-General and Convener of DOFF, Mrs. Bolanle Kaji-Hausa while speaking Newsmen said " the rally is scheduled for massive support of the Vice-president’s presidential aspiration.

She said, “We are optimistic that the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, would emerge victorious at the forthcoming APC presidential primary elections. We aim to ensure that the Vice-President returns to Aso Villa as President in 2023.

“We organised this rally to inform Nigerians of the need to vote for Vice-President Osinbajo massively in the forthcoming presidential election in 2023 to attain a better life for all Nigerians.

“And for the good people in the APC to ensure that the Vice-President clinches the party’s presidential ticket at the primary because he is the man whom the cap fits, and he would deliver as promised.

“Contrary to what is being said in some quarters, Osinbajo is not a betrayer. He never betrayed the former governor of Lagos State, Bola Tinubu, or any other person.

“We are in support of his aspiration and candidacy because we believe that he is the right man for the job. He is a Professor of Law and has held several positions as a civil servant, and now as the Vice-President of our great nation, hence it is only right to rally support for him to be our next president.

On the strength of the group, Kaji-Hausa noted that they have millions of followers across the country and diaspora who are waiting, willing and ready to cast their votes for Prof. Osinbajo.

Northern Youth Leaders Congratulate Atiku, Vow To Ensure He Wins 2023 Presidential Polls

While congratulating His Excellency, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on his success at the presidential primary of the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) a coalition of over 40 groups, Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF) has vowed to work in ensuring he wins the 2023 polls 

This was expressed in a statement signed by the NYLF President, Comrade Eliot Afiyo, made available to newsmen on Sunday May 29.

"We are not particularly surprised by the victory of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar at the PDP primaries which ended early this morning, we are excited that his victory gives hope to ordinary Nigerians who have gone through a lot of recent," it said.

NYLF said it is also congratulating the PDP for producing a winning candidate, Nigerians for the hope of a brighter future and the North, which has not had its fair share of the presidency under the PDP.

"With the primaries done, NYLF will immediately swing into action to mobilize support from the grassroots for our adopted candidate for the 2023 Presidential election," it informed.

The group expresses appreciation the Northern Elders for their intervention to ensure the victory of Atiku. 

"We also thank Governor Aminu Tambuwal for putting the Northern interest above any other interest. 

"We extend our appreciation to Teecom under the Chairmanship of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi," they said.

Adamawa: Haruna Daniel wins Guyuk/Shelleng APC Reps ticket

The Federal Constituency of Guyuk/Shelleng Federal Constituency All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket was clinched by Mr. Haruna T. Daniel.

Haruna who is popularly called D20 has emerged as the APC standard flag bearer for Guyuk/Shelleng Federal House of Representatives and polled a total score of 53 votes to beat his close rival, Ayuba Bamaiyi who scored 15 votes.

The Electoral Officer Alh. Idris Bello while declaring D20 as the winner of the contest said the process was transparent and the freest, fairest.

"After a hitch free primary election that took place at the APC party secretariat in Guyuk, I hereby declared Mr. Haruna T Daniel as the winner of this contest and is hereby returned elected," Bello said

75 votes were accredited. Hon. Ayuba Bamaiyi (15), Hon. Monday Simon (7 ) and Hajiya Aisha Grema scored 0

Mr Daniel in his acceptance thanked the delegates and electoral officers and promised to fly well the party's flag to victory.

He vowed to work hard to take the party to a winning lead to victory from PDP to APC.

Children's Day : Jedela Talent Skills Centre Marks Childrens Day With Chess Competition

As part of activities that marked the celebration of the children's day, the Jedela talent and skills centre in collaboration with Kaduna Chess Association concluded a chess tournament where winners in all categories emerged.

The children's day chess tournament was for children ages 8-13 category and ages 14-17 category.

The tournament which produced the finals that climaxed on 27th May. 2022  started on 13-14 May 2022 where finalist for the Kaduna South and Chikun area were produced.

Similarly, on the 20-21 May, 2022 the finalist for Kaduna North and Igabi area were produced.

At the end of the tournament,  Ola Praise, Onoriode Bernice, Suleiman Abdulhameed emerged 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively in the Under 14 category for South while Yakubu Hameeda, Opeyemi Shalom and Obaro Ejewe emerged 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively for the same category for the North.

For the U-18 category, Jessica Bello, Demia Joshua and Jehu Bello came 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively for the South while Adiza Abdul, David Achir and Timothy Peace came 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively for the North.

Speaking on the tournament, Kaduna State Commissioner for Sports Development Idris Samaila Nyam who was represented by a staff of the ministry and Secretary of Kaduna Chess Association, Gloria Ahmadu commended the organizers for providing an opportunity for the children to showcase their talent in the game of chess.

Also speaking, Chairman Kaduna State Chess Association, Navy Capt. Musa Abdullahi Rtd represented by Coach Felix Onoriode said that "Chess has a way of developing and sharpening the brains of humans, especially young ones, like our children here. So, I can beat my chest to say - chess is a good game for our kids. It will help them in their academic careers and life in general".

Earlier, the managing director Jedela Talent, and Skills Centre Mrs. Rachael Keke said the.centre is committed to always provide opportunity for the children to showcase their talents in Sports.

At the end of the Tournament, medals where given to participants while winners went home.with various cash prizes.

PDP: Forum Renounces Peter Obi, Backs Bala Mohammed, Mobilises Delegates Nationwide

A pro-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on the platform of the Democratic Forum for Justice and Equity (DFJE) has  said that it has shifted loyalty to the Governor of Bauchi State and a leading Presidential aspirant of the party, Alhaji Bala Mohammed, to emerge as PDP's flagbearer.

The group which boasted of about three million members nationwide, said it regretted supporting the former Governor of Anambra State in the first place.

Peter Obi withdrew his presidential aspiration on the platform of PDP and left the party two days ago.

But  a statement released on Friday in Abuja by its national coordinator, Malam Isah Ajilete, said it was on the bases of equity and fairness for the Southeast that it initially declared support for Obi.

The statement said: "We have withdrawn our support for Peter Obi, having realised that he is an unstable politician who has taken his desperation to a selfish level. We made bold to say that we regretted ever supporting Peter Obi in the first place and we have since shifted our loyalty to a stable politician in the person of Alhaji Bala Mohammed.

"It is a known fact that Bala Mohammed is the most loyal presidential aspirant among all those seeking the ticket of the party. Bala Mohammed's region of the northeast has also never tasted the seat of the President like the South-east, hence our support for the Bauchi state governor."

The forum said governor Bala Mohammed's record of achievements as Senator, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and current governor, "coupled with the fact that his geopolitical zone of North-east has never tasted the exalted seat of President was centre of attraction to the PDP presidential aspirant among others.

"Therefore, we have directed all our zonal chapters and state coordinators to reach out and mobilise all the identified real delegates to cast their ballots for Governor Bala Mohammed."

The forum also appealed to the National Working Committee of the PDP and other stakeholders to consider the "widely acknowledged consensus-building capacity, age, education, experience and leadership qualities of Bala Mohammed in the selection of the presidential candidate this weekend."

The group equally pointed out Governor Mohammed's achievement in Bauchi in the last three and half years, noting that he has transformed the state to a modern citiy.

" If you go to Bauchi state you will see for yourself the state is construction site. This is the type of person we need at the helm of affairs now in Nigeria because our country is in dire need of such a person with tested capacity." 

According to the statement, Mohammed’s management and leadership qualities are apparent to all. 

"We note more profoundly that Bala Mohammed is a bridge-builder and a widely accepted politician across the North and the South," the statement said.

Kaduna PDP Primaries: Hon.Ashiru Pays Unscheduled Visit Sen. Shehu Sani

...Commends Him for  Spirit of Sportsmanship 

Winner of the  governorship primaries of  People's Democratic Party (PDP), Kaduna State,Rt Hon. Isa Ashiru today paid unscheduled to  visit  Senator Shehu Sani at his Kaduna residence.

Senator Shehu becomes the first he visited shortly after he emerged the Kaduna PDP Flagbearer .

The Former House of Representatives member was  declared the winner of the PDP gubernatorial primaries held on Wednesday night at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna by the returning officer, Chief Raymond Dabo, a former PDP Chairman in Plateau State, who announced that he polled 414 votes.

According to Ashiru , the purpose of the visit to Senator Shehu Sani was to commend him for the  good spirit of Sportsmanship displayed after he lost the Primaries,thus the decision to make his residence  the first port of call. 

 Senator Shehu Sani had earlier  via his verified Facebook handle  conceded  defeat and congratulated Isa Ashiru for emerging victorious. His words: “The Kaduna PDP Governorship primaries has been concluded. I lost and Honourable Isah Ashiru won. I wish to congratulate him." 

He also accepted  to work with the party to defeat the ruling party All Progressives Congress (APC) in forthcoming 2023 general elections.

In an informal chat with Sen. Sani during the visit, Hon Isa Ashiru appealed for reconciliation ,support and pleaded over possible attack on delegates .

He equally  urged the former lawmaker ,who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the 8th Senate to put heads together with  him to win and bring down APC in Kaduna.

In his response , Senator Shehu Sani  thanked Ashiru for the surprise visit and promised to join hands together to ensure APC is sent packing from Kaduna government House,come 2023.

Presidency: I Won't Pay Fayemi's Kindness With Evil, Ganduje Rallies Kano Delegates

 

*Fayemi promises to revamp textile industry 

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has assured Ekiti State Governor and leading presidential aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr. Kayode Fayemi of the state's support attributing this to Fayemi’s widely aknowledged consensus building capacity, education and leadership qualities.

Ganduje who recalled how governor Fayemi stood by him in 2019 governorship election in Kano, declared that he will never repay good with evil.

A statement released on Friday in Abuja by the spokesman of Dr. Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation, Femi Ige, said Governor Ganduje who was represented by his deputy and governorship candidate of the party, Dr Nasiru Gawuna, made the declaration when Fayemi's campaign team visited the state on Thursday.

According to Ganduje, Fayemi’s management and leadership qualities are apparent to all. 

"Your leadership qualities are not hidden. The way you have led the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) for two terms with unity of purpose and with no dissent is a testament to your leadership skills. You have led 36 governors from across different parties effectively. You have actually been president without having ministers and discharged your duties creditably well, so we have no fears about supporting you because the morning tells how the day will look like."

Continuing, the Kano governor recounted Fayemi’s solid support during his own trying times and said it would not be in his character to repay good with evil. 

"During the governorship rerun in 2019 when everyone left us, you stood by our government, in fact you were the only governor who came here and fought until victory was achieved, so we owe you on that front too."

Also speaking, the Director General of the Kayode Fayemi Presidential Campaign Organisation and former Deputy National Chairman of the APC, Senator Shuaib Lawal advised the Kano delegates to choose wisely as Nigeria was too divided, lean economically and in a state of war to trust a neophyte into power. 

Shuaib Lawal said: "The next president must have capacity, education, intellect, wide network and courage in order for the country to move forward in the right direction. Our military, economic, religious and cultural disunity means we must not put a neophyte in power."

Responding, the presidential aspirant promised to address the problems that led to the death of the Kaduna /Kano textile industries by tackling power and insecurity.

"It's in an atmosphere of peace and unity that we can grow. I'll retool the military, expand intelligence, increase use of technology and effectively halt our nation's match into lawlessness, insurgency and anarchy if elected.

"The Kaduna /Kano textile industry that is also a major source of employment and contributor to the GDP will be revamped. We will also tackle the problem of electricity by breaking down this national grid that's always collapsing into zonal grid and micro grids in order to ensure constant power supply and push the country on the path of industrialisation."

Golf Club Organises Mini Tournament For Children in Kaduna

By; Mike Odeh James  

Kaduna

As part of activities to celebrate this year's edition of Children's Day marked on May 27 annually, Kaduna Golf Club, Ladies Section is engaging children to a fun filled golf clinic, mini tournament and other activities on Friday.

Briefing newsmen preparatory to the programme, the Kaduna Golf Club Lady Captain, Hajia Hussaina Zubair Jibril said the golf clinic is for children between the ages of 5-18 years.

On the mini tournament, the lady captain said, it will be in three categories; ages 5-8 category, 9-13 category and 14-18 category, adding that various prizes will be given to  winners alongside souvenirs for all the participants.

The lady captain also disclosed that other fun activities available for the children include, horse riding, face painting, bouncing castle, board games eg Scrabble among others.

She further disclosed that Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Hajya Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, Commissioner of Sports Development, Idris Samaila Nyam among other dignitaries are expected to grace the programme.

" We are organizing the golf clinic and mini tournament as part of efforts to introduce the children to the game of golf and to also provide them an opportunity to have fun on the celebration of their day.

" We have support from MicroManna, NIgerian Bottling Company, Nigerian Breweries among others," she said.

The lady captain also informed that the lady section will also be celebrating the International Women's Day Golf Tournament on the  June 7, 2022 with the theme; "Walk the course,  learn the game" which she said is targeted at introducing women organisations to the game of golf.

According to her, a number of women Organisations has already been invited to participate in activities lined up for the celebration of the day at the Kaduna golf club.

Presidency: It's a pay back time for Fayemi's love, Oyetola rallies delegates in Osun, Oyo

Ahead of the presidential primary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) slated for Sunday, May 30th in Abuja, Governor of state of Osun Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, has declared support for the aspiration of his counterpart in Ekiti and a leading presidential aspirant, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, saying "it's a pay back time."

Oyetola publicly declared that Fayemi's capacity and competence as one of the best sons of Oodua js obvious to all.

In a statement released Thursday in Abuja by the spokesman of Dr. Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation, Femi Ige, said governor Oyetola made the remarks when Feyemi visited Osun  and Oyo states Wednesday to address party leaders and delegates for their support.

According to Oyetola who described Governor Fayemi as "a great bridge builder, team leader, consensus manager and one of the best sons of Oodua," the Nigeria Governors Forum Chairman has led the forum to the satisfaction of all.

Oyetola said: "He (Fayemi) takes everyone's problem as his own, this is why in four years we have always spoken with one voice. We pray for you because we believe in your leadership capacity and when the time comes, we pray we'll be able to pay back the love and kindness you have shown us."

In his response, Fayemi appealed to the delegates and party faithfuls not to create enemies for aspirants where none exist because "this struggle is about service and not about self. The biggest thing is for APC to win and South-west to clinch the ticket."

Addressing delegates and party leaders in Ibadan Oyo state, Fayemi promised the Ibadan Mega City Project and aid the efforts of the state government in turning the vast fertile landscape into an agricultural gold mine that would make the state the nation's food basket.

Fayemi who asked the state delegates to queue behind him based on his rich educational pedigree, integrity, capacity and competence reminded the delegates that he's the only aspirant on the APC platform who is an Indegene of the state.

"You may shocked by my claim of indigeneship, but that is the truth. My father lived the greater percentage of his life here in Ibadan. I was born at Adeoyo General Hospital here in Ibadan , I grew up around Iso-part, I did my  primary school at ICC Primary School at E9, I have a family compound here and I have my own house here in town too. 

"My parents may have been of Ekiti extraction, but I've every right to contest in Ibadan haven been born here and lived majority of my adult life in Ibadan, I can confidently say, I'm a son of the soil and the only Ibadan son in the presidential race "he added

Continuing, Fayemi said "with my knowledge of Ibadan and Oyo State in general, I've a duty to contribute significantly to its development if elected. I'll bring my God endowed knowledge and capacity to bear in the onerous task of making Nigeria one of the safest places to live in Africa."

Atiku Care Foundation Inaugurates South East LGA Coordinators, Rallies Support Ahead Primaries

The Director General of Atiku Care Foundation (ACF), Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas has inaugurated the local government coordinators of the foundation in the South East geopolitical zone, while charging them to rally support for His Excellency, former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar ahead of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) primaries billed for later this week.

A statement signed by the Director Media and Publicity ACF, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Tuesday, said the inauguration was held in Enugu on May 24.

"The Atiku Care Foundation (ACF) is  holding a series of zonal engagement within our structures in order to further create awareness and galvanize support for His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (GCFR) ahead of the PDP presidential primaries. 

"You're expected to actively mobilize our state and local government coordinators within your region,  as well as members and the general public at large, in order to achieve a robust outcome," Ambassador Abbas told the coordinators. 

In his remarks, the Zonal Director South East Atiku Care Foundation, Engr. Nduaguba Chinedu Kelvin said that NIgeria is almost collapsed and patriotic citizens look up to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to salvage the situation.

He therefore, vowed that he would mobilize all the ACF LGA Coordinators in the South East to talk to delegates from their areas.

Also speaking, Enugu State Director  ACF, Shepard Chijoke Eyioku said that for NIgeria to bounce back from the brinks, the experience of Atiku is needed.

Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze Meets Delegate Nationwide, Lobby for Maximum Support to Emerge Party Flag Bearer

As the People’s Democratic Party Presidential Primaries Elections draws close, the foremost aspirant from the Southeast, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze  campaign team has embarked on  a last  minute but large-scale hunt for delegates to enable him scale through and become the flag bearer of the PDP in preparation for the 2023 Presidential election

It could be recalled that few weeks ago, the Anakwenze Campaign Organization stormed Kano state where they were warmly received by the PDP . It was also a success story in Kaduna state as Dr.Anakwenze's team was warmly accorded good reception 

Yesterday, the team the berthed Makurdi the capital of Benue State  which is one of the swing states in the country .

After meeting with the party officials in Makurdi,members the Anakwenze Campaign Organization stormed the Aper Aku Stadium to woo delegates .

In his speech and video message to delegates, the astute businessman and Physician turned politician promised to restructure the country economically and politically to make more viable and a country where everyone can be to call his or her own .

The Anambra born politician added that if elected, he would govern the country not as an Igbo man but a Nigerian with sense of unity, purpose and urgency . He explained that on assuming office as the President, the first thing he would do is to tackle the Insecurity in the North West, North East and South East of the country.

"We shall try to bring those who are aggrieved to the table and settle their grievances through dialogue but those bent on creating a state within a state, we shall use the full weight of the military on the on them .

He also added that his presidency shall tackle the agriculture with much emphasy on modernisation  and mechanisation of agricultural sector.He promised that farmers shall get fertilizers free and agricultural implements at a subsidized rate 

On the overall economy, he insisted the economy would be  overhauled  with the aim of making it more viable and beneficial to Nigerians 

Anakwenze further promised that his administration shall run an all inclusive administration which all Nigerians who be represented and no one marginalised.

As at today the 24th, the campaign train have covered Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Delta States respectively in the South South region.

Speaking to that, the Coordinator and Head of Implementation and Monitoring of the Anakwenze Campaign Organization Pastor Shedrach Oka said so far the message of hope from Dr Anakwenze was well accepted.

“What we are doing is to bring the message of hope from Dr Anakwenze to all delegates. There is no better time than now that delegates needs to put their future considerations ahead of their personal greed.

"Yes others may be sharing bundles of money but Anakwenze’s Challenge is simple: if you are satisfied with the state of your economy, medicare , insecurity, strike actions, mortality rate, unemployment etc then vote the usual way but if not then change the evil pattern”

The south south train of the campaign moves to Rivers and Edo States 

2023: My Presidency Will Address Imbalance In FCT, Fayemi Assures Abuja Delegates

Ekiti State Governor and leading presidential aspirant, Dr Kayode Fayemi has promised to build on the security architecture put in place in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) while also ensuring that the original inhabitants of Abuja are properly compensated and given a pride of place in the scheme of things.

Fayemi who addressed party leaders and the expanded delegates in the FCT on Tuesday in Abuja, complained about lack of adequate representation and compensation for the Gbagyi people. 

"My government will address this imbalance and revert to the original number of Local Government Areas which gave the indigenes effective representation.

"We shall also build on the gains of the security architecture put in place by the Buhari administration. Many are quick to forget how the FCT became a hotbed of violence and frequent bombings between 2012 and 2015.

"Many may have forgotten the UN House bomb incidence, the Banex bomb incidence and several incidents of terrorism. 

"We appreciate how far we have gone, but we shall address the gaps noticed, introduce intelligence, technology, retool the armed forces and bring to bear my expertise in security consultancy round the world by bringing innovations that will ensure that the FCT becomes a fortress and the safest place to live, work and do business."

Speaking further on security, the presidential aspirant promised to embark on aggressive retooling the manpower of the armed forces, retooling the armaments, embark on expansive intelligence improvement, use of technology. 

"I'm here to offer myself as a servant leader. I'll work for the people, fair to everyone, just, equitable, courageous and heal the wounds of years of division by offering inclusiveness and giving everyone a sense of belonging. I'll end banditry and all pockets of disagreements in the country.

"My focus would be on bringing peace to my fatherland and ensure that the Ibadan man finds home in Sokoto and the Sokoto man finds home in Akure, Abakaliki, Onisha or Owerri. The Owerri man must find home in Damaturu. This is the Nigeria I want to fight for and I'm confident it's achievable."

2023: I 'll Appoint Fayemi Buhari's Successor If I 've My Way - Sani-Bello

* I'm more prepared, qualified for the job - Fayemi 

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has said that if he was given the option and privilege to appoint a President, he would appoint Ekiti State Governor and APC presidential aspirant, Dr Kayode Fayemi as Nigeria's President.

The governor said Fayemi is one of the aspirants that have been a friend to the state before coming to canvass for votes for his presidential ambition.

A statement released on Monday in Abuja by the spokesman of Dr. Kayode Fayemi Presidential Campaign Organisation, Femi Ige, said governor Bello made the declaration when he recieved the presidential aspirant in Government House Sunday evening in Minna.

Bello said: "You have been here at least three or four times before now. You have been a close friend to Niger state. It is not now that there is a need for support that people are coming. 

"Only five or six people have been to the state but you can count on my support. If you become president, I will relax because I know I will have easy access to you. In fact, if I have my way I will appoint you as the next President after President Muhammadu Buhari."

He said that although he never get involved in congresses or ward elections, the aspirant has sold himself and he is certain that Niger state delegates are behind him.

Speaking earlier, the APC presidential aspirant, Dr Fayemi said there were only five presidential aspirants in the All Progressives Congress as the others are pretenders.

"This is a season of visits and states keep receiving us. The list of presidential aspirants says there are 23 but only five of us are going around the country. With this, you can separate the pretenders from the contenders.

" I am ready for the job. I want you to take a bet on me and you will have no cause to regret. I can remake Nigeria without unmaking it. I believe in Project Nigeria and that Nigeria is worth fighting for and together we can regain the lost glory of Nigeria", he said.

The Presidential Aspirant said that when he becomes the President, he would work towards addressing the insecurity challenges bedevilling the country adding that the triggers of insecurity will be addressed while more attention would be paid to intelligence and technology.

He further said that the headache of the government has always been the power supply adding that to address this, he would decentralize the power supply.

"Nigerians are not fully happy with us that we have not been able to move the needle towards the uninterrupted power supply.

"I think in addition to the national grid, we need to have regional grids, mini-grids, microgrids that would decentralize power supply to the local levels and this would address this challenge that we all face. Once we address the challenges of power, we address the problem of industrialization and productivity in the country", he said.

Fayemi also said that women would be given priority in his administration saying he would work towards restoring the faith of Nigerians to project Nigeria, "Many Nigerians have lost faith in project Nigeria. We will find a way to restore their confidence, trust and confidence in Project Nigeria. I am passionate about Project Nigeria and I will ensure it works." 

Fayemi who also visited Kastina state assured delegates of his plan to ensure proper reward system for all the party members.

"We need to return the power of patronage, the power of appointment to the party at the local level, not to people who don't know what is happening in the party. So for me, it is absolutely important that we do that. 

"But I also talk in my path or the need to have party Institute, a policy institute that we will always utilize to train the next generation of leaders in the party. Because people just become accidental politicians without learning the leadership roudiment, without going through the roles."

Speaking on why he is more prepared, Fayemi told Kastina delegates that "when I come to you, I come in humility, not as a sense of entitlement. I come to plead for your support on the basis of my antecedents, the basis of my track record, the basis of my passion for this party, and on the basis of my quality as a unifier and bridge builder. And that is very important to me at this point in time and it has be important to all of us. 

"I offer myself for this job. But it's not a do-or-die for me. I would hope, certainly its my my prayer that Katsina delegates would take a bet on me and support me wholeheartedly. That's my prayer insha Allah. However, if in the wisdom of the party, another person is asked to do this job, you can take it to the bank, I will support the choice of the party wholeheartedly. And with every fibre in me."

2023 Election : I'll Create 12 Million Jobs, Tackle Insecurity, Says Okwudiili Nwa-Anyadike

Okwudiili Nwa- Anyadike, a Presidential aspirant under the banner of National Rescue Mission, ( NRM ) has pledged to create 12 million jobs within 2 years of he is elected as President.

.

Nwa-Anyajike made the pledge while addressing journalists  after obtaining the party’s interest and nomination forms, yesterday in Abuja.

 

He said: “Under my watch as president, Federal Republic of Nigeria, I will create more than 12 million direct and indired jobs in my first two years in the office and these jobs will be created without me or Nigeria as a nation borrowing money from anybody.

“The first issue to tackle about insecurity is to create employment when we create employment because when you create employment, eliminate 75 per cent of insecurity.

“We do not need to borrow money to create jobs. We do not need to borrow to solve our problem by the time we have secure employment for our Nigerians, you will see that 70 per cent of people roaming the street committing different kinds of crimes will find something to do to eliminate the hunger and the economic rules thereby you have automatically reduced insecurity.

“We need to have a secure insurance policy that any policeman that dies on duty while performing his duty for the nation there will be the benefit of his family till the rest of his life.”

On his part, Adamawa State governorship aspirant, Aliyu Maina, urged voters in the state to support his mission in order to rescue it from maladministration.

Also, NRM’s National Welfare Officer, Chinedu Obi, said: “Over the years, we have discovered that we lack serious deficit in leadership in Nigeria, absence of rule of laws, infrastructure and the educational systems is virtually absent.

“We thank God today that message of rescue has not only resonated with the party but even those starting this initiative think that this country deserves rescue.”

 

.

Journalists Against Polio

Presidency: Imo Delegates Will Look Favourably To Fayemi, Uzodinma Declares

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, described Ekiti State Governor and Presidential aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Kayode Fayemi as one of Nigeria's finest brains, manager of men and best fit for the presidency of the world's largest black nation. 

Governor Uzodinma declared that Imo state delegates will look favourably towards governor Fayemi in the forthcoming primary election of the ruling party.

A statement released Saturday in Abuja by the spokesman gor Dr. Kayode Fayemi Campaign Organisation, Femi Ige, said Uzodinma received the Fayemi Friday evening at the Council Chamber in Imo state before leading him to meet the national delegates of the party.

According to the statement, Senator Uzodinma told Fayemi who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) not to bother to come and campaign in the state because "he's someone who is well known to us as our chairman and leader. 

"His management of affairs of the NGF is a classic testimony to his renowned man management acumen. He's a terrific team player, consensus builder, brilliant leader. The conviction behind his words provoke you to want to listen more to the wisdom in his thoughts. 

"To us in Imo, the giant strides which you are seeing in the state either in World Bank, AfDB or other international agency interventions are handiwork of President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Fayemi. 

"So, my chairman, Imo is your home, we know there are many aspirants but when the time comes, we shall do what is expected of us and I can assure you that we will look favorably in your direction."

Responding, Fayemi promised to use all his God given acumen to help the nation out of the woods.

"I grew up in the Catholic church learning as a mass boy the virtues of fairness, equity and kindness. Growing, I've also learnt the art of team playing and consensus building. 

"To get out of the woods, our nation must heal wounds, ensure inclusiveness and foist an administration that gives everybody a sense of belonging that will encourage our brothers and sisters in the South-east unleash the inner kinetic energy inherent in them for the greatness of the greater Nigeria Nation instead of engendering in them the urge to quit the union," the presidential aspirant added.

welll

Weell

Udi Stakeholders Storm Court, Demand Order Restraining Aneke From Parading As PDP LG Chair

In pursuant to Section 2; Section 47(5) of the Constitution of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2012 (as amended) and  PDP  Electoral Guidelines for the 2023 General Election, an originating summons seeking among others, an order restraining Mr. Okechukwu Aneke who is the 1st Defendant from parading himself as the Chairman of the 2nd Defendant in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State is being sought.

The order which was filed by Samuel C. Chukwu and 

Raymond Nkannebe; Esq for DECENCY SOLICITORS on behalf of their clients, Emmanuel Ogbozor and Daniel Eneaniofu who are the Plaintiffs on Friday May 20 at  the Federal High Court in the Abuja Judicial Division

holden at Abuja, is seeking three prayers which are;

"AN ORDER restraining the 1st Defendant from parading himself as the Chairman of the 2nd Defendant in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

"AN ORDER directing the leadership of the 2nd and 3rd Defendants to desist from recognizing the 1st Defendant as the Chairman of the 2nd Defendant in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

"AN ORDER directing officers and men of the 4th and 5th Defendants to give effect to relief No 2 above, in order to forestall a possible breakdown of law and order in Udi Local Government of Enugu in particular, and Enugu State at large".

 According to the document sighted by our correspondent on Friday night, the summons are to be served the three defendants; 1st Defendant Mr. Okechukwu Aneke

De’Angelo Hotel, Golf Estate,

Enugu, 2nd Defendant

People’s Democratic Party PDP National Headquarters WADATA Plaza Wuse Zone 5 Abuja and 3rd Defendant Independent National Electoral Commission

Plot 436 Zambezi Crescent,

Abuja.

Also joined in the suit are 4th and 5th Respondents,  Nigeria Police Force Headquarters Louis Edet House Abuja.

"LET the Defendants within Thirty (30) days of service of this Summons on them, inclusive of the day of such service, cause an appearance to be entered for them to this summons issued upon the application of the Plaintiffs herein named whose address for service is: Decency Solicitors, No: 2 Tanga Street, Wuse Zone 6, Abuja who seek the determination of the following questions and claim the reliefs set our hereunder:

QUESTIONS FOR DETERMINATION

Whether having regard to Section 47(5) of the PDP Constitution 2012 (as amended), and the PDP Electoral Guidelines for the 2023 General Election, the 1st Defendant can continue to preside over the affairs of the 2nd Defendant in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, being an Aspirant for the Udi South Constituency Legislative Seat in the Enugu State House of Assembly under the platform of the 2nd Defendant?" The document stated.

 The Plaintiffs claim in consequence the following reliefs:

"A DECLARATION that by the provision of Section 47(5) of the PDP Constitution 2012 (as amended) and the PDP Electoral Guidelines for the 2023 General Election, the 1st Defendant is not eligible to continue to preside as the 2nd Defendant’s Chairman in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State being an Aspirant for the Udi South Constituency Legislative Seat in the Enugu State House of Assembly under the platform of the 2nd Defendant? "

NNPP Primaries: Hon. Musa Babawo Secures Party Ticket To Vie For Tudun Wada Constituency

The Kaduna state house of representative aspirant under the umbrella of New Nigerian people's party (NNPP), Aliyu Musa Babawo,has emerged the winner of Tudan Wada constituency primary election.

While declaring the result the electoral officer that presided the primary election Hon Aliyu Mohammed Dogon Daji also the vice Chairman of Kaduna south local government, announced the emerged of Aliyu Musa as the winner, who have duly secured the high vote cast in the election.

He however noted unveiled that, the Aliyu Musa have secured eleven votes out of the twelve vote cast by the delegates,while Hon Mistafa has one vote,Abdulhadi Abdullahi and Hon Shamsuddeenhave non vote from the primary election held at the ward I'm office in Kaduna.

APC Gubernatorial Delegates Election Sham, Mere Charade - Alhaji Bashir Abubakar

Kaduna State All Progressives Congress gubernatorial Aspirant, Alhaji Bashir Abubakar has condemned APC gubernatorial delegates election, describing it as a sham and a charade, while calling on the party's national leadership to intervene. 

The Director General, Alhaji Bashir Abubakar Governorship Campaign Organisation, Mr James Bawa Magaji told journalists in Kaduna on Thursday that "there was no delegate election on Saturday, what happened was a charade. All our supporters and security agencies can attest to that because our delegates and our supporters went to all the offices in Zone 1 (Kaduna North) preparatory to the delegates election but nobody was there. 

"There was no delegates election in Zone 2 (Kaduna Central) and Zone 3 (Kaduna South) it was a sham, where people sat and signed to say they did consensus. I don't know the meaning of their own consensus where it was the decision of their camp alone, nobody from the other parties were involved. What kind of consensus is that? If there are two or more aspirants and they agree to step down for one party, that is consensus. 

"But the parties must put their agreement down in writing and such consensus must be affirmed to by the delegates. After all the aspirants bought forms, only three governorship aspirants returned their forms, Alhaji Sani Sha'aban, Alhaji Bashir Abubakar and Sen. Uba Sani. If there were any consensus, the three parties should be aware of it and agree with each other on who to step down for who. 

"The delegates election never took place, so the party leadership at the national and state level must rise up and ensure that justice is done and it is seen to be done."

Also speaking, the Kaduna North Coordinator of Alhaji Bashir Abubakar Campaign organisation, Alhaji Hassan Saleh Jirgi said there was no delegate congress anywhere in the state.

 "As a stakeholder, I should know if there was any, there was nothing like that. The delegates election was done in a way in which we don't understand" he emphasized.

"We are all members of the APC for the required number of years, we bought delegates forms against all odds, filled them but we were not allowed to submit the forms" he said.

"Other aspirants have been given five slots each for delegates for this election but we were not given any. Only to be told that there is consensus which is not to the knowledge of our aspirant. That is not what the party constitution says" He lamented.

 You cannot win governorship election by forcing yourself on the people. 

"Ahead of the May 20th, 2022 primaries, the party leaders at the national and state level needed to do something to ensure that our mandate, recognition and intent are protected. The party should come in and ensure that we partake in the primaries. If we lose, we know that and if we win, we know that instead of knocking us out technically. Let us go to a direct primary and let a winner emerge. 

"Governor Nasir el-Rufai has been an advocate of justice, he has been in the forefront seeking for power shift to the South in 2023, he is from Zone 2 and by 2023 he would have ruled for eight years and the person he wants to hand over to is also from Zone 2, he needs to realise the need for power to shift to zone 1 or zone 3."

2022 WMD:ACOMIN advocates more funding by govt to fight Malaria, other life threatening diseases

In an effort to promote and celebrate community contributions to Health in the light of the recently commemorated World Malaria day and beyond, ACOMIN advocated that government at all levels increase their budgetary allocations to malaria in particular and health in general.

ACOMIN, a Civil Society in fighting and control the scourge of Malaria, Immunization and Nutrition in Adamawa State, and its member Community-based Organisations (CBOs) are working in 8 Local Government areas within the State namely, Yola North, Girei, Song, Mubi South, Mayo Belwa, Ganye, Maiha and Numan in fighting malaria.

ACOMIN official, Lauretta Charles in a media briefing in Yola stressed on the global fund Malaria community -led monitoring project, and called for more government participation, funding and appealed to stakeholders in the state to stand up for the fight against malaria.

She is elated to say that community investments in health have noticeably improved since the introduction of the Community-led Monitoring (CLM) project being implemented by ACOMIN, with support from the Global Fund (GF).

She recalled how the 2022 World malaria day (WMD) was celebrated with a theme; “advance equity, build resilience, end malaria” while the slogan is “every effort counts”.

"In advancing equity, given that health is a fundamental human right, the civil society sees the need and is working towards increasing equity as it pertains to health, particularly access to malaria services as well as service delivery." Charles said

She worried that more funding is very much needed being the fact that Malaria is one of Nigeria’s most important public health concerns because of the illness and death it causes to millions of people.

According to her Malaria is transmitted all over Nigeria, Since 2019 the country has recorded the highest number of global malaria cases (27% of global malaria cases) and accounted for the highest number of deaths (23% of global malaria deaths).

"In rural populations, prevalence is 2.4 times that in urban populations (31% vs. 13%). Pregnant women and children under the age of 5 are the most vulnerable groups to malaria. Pregnant women infected with malaria usually have more severe symptoms and outcomes, with higher rates of miscarriage, intrauterine demise, premature delivery, low-birth-weight in new-born babies and neonatal death. They are also at a higher risk for severe anaemia and maternal death. Compared to the highest socioeconomic group, prevalence among children in the lowest socioeconomic group is seven times higher (38% vs. 6%).

"Every person irrespective of their socio-economic class, gender, ethnicity, demography and location should have equal rights and unrestricted access to malaria and other healthcare services. The civil society also encourages building resilience of the community health systems – which can be achieved by promoting community ownership and investment in health systems. When strong health systems are in place, it is almost certain that efforts put in to fight malaria will be effective, trackable and sustainable, especially at the community level." Lauretta said

She Further said that CBOs implementing the project were equipped with knowledge, skills and resources needed to empower community members to take ownership and invest in their own health. As a result, several successes are consistently being recorded.

Charles revealed many Successes were achieved in the area of   Mass increase in awareness of free Global Fund Malaria commodities and services in implementing Local Government and the state at large. 

Also community ownership of the project and other health intervention in facilities were increased with the   Integration of District Heads and other traditional title holders into project awareness programs were all parts of the success stories.

In order to contribute to the promotion and sustenance of these gains, ACOMIN is calling on stakeholders,  the mass media to educate the general public on the need to imbibe malaria prevention practices as a lifestyle.

"Advocate for the involvement and contribution of communities, philanthropists and the private sector in malaria interventions. And advocate for CLM to be adapted into other sectors outside health and for other donors to invest into this." She called

Ebonyi: Halt Umahi's Fresh Loan Request, AESID Urges EFCC

*condemns N600m budget for 7th anniversary 

The Association of Ebonyi State Indigenes in the Diaspora (AESID) has expressed worries over the rising debt profile of Ebonyi State, urging the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to stop the fresh loan request by the state government.

The group also faulted the plan by the state government to spend about N600 million on the forthcoming 7th year anniversary of Governor Dave Umahi-led administration in the state.

The Ebonyi State House of Assembly had recently approved another loan request from the Governor of Ebonyi State, allegedly put at N10 billion "for the purposes of completion of numerous ongoing infrastructural projects in the state."

But reacting to the development through a statement signed Wednesday in Abuja, AESID's President Ambassador Paschal Oluchukwu, his organisation will take every necessary legal and remedial steps towards ensuring that the state government does not further take the indigenes for granted.

 

"We at AESID urges the EFCC and good spirited Nigerians to please wade in to halt these deliberate and calculated stealing of our lean resources by a government that has made hunger and starvation of the masses it's official policy. 

"AESID will take every necessary legal and remedial steps towards ensuring that the Umahi government does not further take the indigenes for granted by wasting the said plum sum when most families in Ebonyi cannot afford even a square meal due to the excruciatingly biting anthropogenic poverty and hardship foisted on it by the Umahi administration."

The group queried the powers of the 16 state House Assembly members loyal to the governor having been sacked by an Abuja Federal High Court for defecting to the All Progressives Congress with the Governor in November 2020.

According to the statement, records from the Debt Management Office showed that as at December 2021, the official sub- national domestic debt profile of Ebonyi state stood at over N42 Billion. 

"We are also aware of undisputed claims in certain quarters that Ebonyi State government under Umahi has unofficially been making borrowings from some commercial banks in the State without due process or even recourse to the lackeys in the State's House of Assembly. Our foreign debt profile have also skyrocketed to a whooping about $64M US Dollars. This does not include the borrowing of $150M from the Islamic Bank for the State's ring road project.

"For a government that inherited a near zero debt burden from his predecessor and has habitually been wasting public funds on non-economically viable or sensible projects, this latest desperation to make our poor Ebonyi a debt stock of the nation is highly condemnable and most unfortunate.

"We can conveniently bet that Umahi has in the course of his deceptive ego-driven, white elephant projects borrowed and lavished what the next government in the State could have borrowed for the next eight years. It is even most disturbing that such humongous borrowings does not translate to the establishment of even a sachet water factory that can generate a Kobo to the coffers our economically strangulated Ebonyi State. 

"As though the unconscionable squandering of public funds on frivolities is not already enough, AESID read in the media very recently about plans by the Umahi administration to spend N600M of tax-payers money to celebrate it's Seventh anniversary in office. For a government which took Ebonyi's poverty index from about 64 percent to a whooping nearly 80% with the state now officially the poverty capital of the entire Southern Nigeria, Umahi should be ashamed of celebrating the near total debt extinction of the State's economic life and prosperity."

On the recent victory of a victim of the Cybercrime law of the State which was recently declared illegal by a Federal High Court in Abakaliki, the statement commended the judiciary for the bold decision of declaring the state law as "anti the spirits and letters of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Deborah: BD Lawal, Ex-SGF distances self from voice note inciting Christians to retaliate

....says it's not in his character, the grammar, sentiments and the voice are all not his

By Tom Garba, Yola

The former Secretary to Government of the Federation, SGF, Engr Babachir David Lawal has distanced himself from a voice note accredited to him inciting Christians to retaliate against the killing of Ms. Deborah Samuel who was killed by Mob in Sokoto for blasphemy.

Babachir a Northern Christian stakeholder said he rightly feel indignant about the incident and condemned it as it is not in his character to incite people to retaliate. 

According to him the voice on the voice note is not his own nor is it in his character to incite revenge. 

David in a press statement said as follows:

"There is a voice note being circulated in the social media purported to have been made by me inciting Christians to retaliate the recurring violence repeatedly unleashed on Christian individuals, their communities, and their properties as epitomized by the recent burning to death of Miss Deborah Samuel and Church property in Sokoto.

"While I rightly feel indignant about these killings, it is not in my character to incite people to retaliate. Besides, the voice on the voice note is not mine neither is it in my character to incite revenge. 

"The Bible urges believers to leave vengeance to God and I have always urged all victims of religious bigotry and violence to obey this injunction. And I am particularly heartened that the parents of Deborah Samuel have chosen this path.

"For those whose interest is best served by this wicked and cowardly act of trying to sully my name, I wish them well. But certainly, it was not done by me neither did I say such. Certainly, the voice is not mine, the sentiment is not mine and the grammar is not mine. 

"I, therefore, urge all my friends and family to ignore this malicious act. It will backfire on the evil men."

JOURNALISTS TOLD TO UPHOLD PROFESSIONALISM AS NUJ HONOURS CEO SUPREME FAMILY, FARMTRAC, OTHERS

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Kaduna state council has honored some selected personalities with an award of excellence for their immense contribution to Humanity.

These People, include, The Chief Executive Officer, Supeme Family Entertainment International Initiative, Amb. Mrs Joyce Hemni Mathew Andrew, the Managimg Director, FARMTRAC Nigeria limited, Engr Abubakar Sadiq, Special Adviser to Goveenor Nasir Elrufai of kaduna state on media and Communications, Mr Muyiwa' Adekeye, Major General J.A FAGGE, Prof. AK Usman and Comptroller Zone B Nigeria Custom service,  AB Hamisu among others.

Speaking During the event, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists-NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo has charged journalists to uphold the virtue of patriotism in their reportage.

Comrade Isiguzo stressed the need for journalists to imbibe the habit of setting positive agenda for national discourse, aimed at addressing the myriads of challenges bedeviling the country.

Earlier the Chairman of Kaduna Council of NUJ, Hajiya Asma’u Halilu explained that the event was organised to enlighten members on how to report elections and crises professionally during the electioneering period.

She further explained that the state council after vigorous findings, carefully selected the award recipients based on their track records of achievements and positive contributions to Humanity.

Responding onbehalf of the awardees, the CEO Supreme family, Mrs Joyce Mathew Andrew represented by Mrs Grace Kennedy Musa and the Managing Director of FARMTRAC Nigeria limited, Engr Abubakar Sadiq, represented by Engr  Markus Sale, described the award as a morale booster, assuring of more commitment to the service of Humanity.

Nasiru meets PDP delegates, set for Fofure/Song Adamawa HoR seat

As the 2023 general elections keep approaching, politicians are scheming out plans for winning the election of their aspiring positions.

An erudite and a luminary of selfless service to humanity, Hon Nasiru Abdulsalam Song has embarked on a wide consultations meeting with the stakeholders, delegates, and key players of the Fofure/Song Federal Constituency area of Adamawa State.

Nasiru has commenced a tour consulting the movers and shackers of the party in Fofure and Song of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) as a hopeful Lawmaker for the federal constituency in the national assembly, assuring them  to be the best if given the mandate 

The Young Politician whose business enclaves was successful to pitched in Abuja, Yola, and Song is said to be fully prepared to represent the people of Fofure and Song.

According to one of his supporters, Bamanga Yaya Nuhu said the meeting today was crucial with the delegates from Dumne, Song, and other parts of Yungur communities.

Yaya said if PDP wants to win the federal constituency, there are assured winning chances in the person of Nasiru.

He said soon the aspirant will tour the two local government areas to consolidate his winning possibilities. The 

"It's only Nasiru that has the capacity to win this election, im calling on PDP stakeholders, delegates to never waste their votes on people that will give APC a lew way to win." Yaya said

Adamawa: Give Hon Jafaar the ticket, APC will have a landslide victory in North zone -Party loyalist

.....any aspirant other than him is just a big minus for the party to losing election,Aliyu says

Honorable Jafaar Magaji Haske is seen as one of the spines of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa Northern Senatorial District whose stewardship is praised all the time by his constituents.

His Sterling records of representation, a loyalist of the party from Mubi South, Bayero Aliyu Mubi said the victory of APC in the coming 2023 elections largely depends if Jafaar will clinch the ticket to return as a ranking member for the people of Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha in the national.

According to Aliyu, the Haske factor is very germane for the APC to comfortably win Governorship, Senatorial, and State Assembly seats because of his glowing political acceptance. 

He said that the performance of Jafaar in the national assembly as the Lawmaker representing Mubi North, Mubi South, and Maiha has given APC a new acceptance in the area.

He recalled that the Lawmaker has done a lot of empowerment to alleviate the socio-economy crisis the people of the area have passed through and still passing since Boko Haram has rampaged communities under the federal Constituency is representing.

He described Haske Magaji as an all-around achiever in making bills, and motions and largely contributing to the development of the country.

He called on delegates, party stakeholders, and Senior and critical party men not only from the Adamawa Northern zone but the entire state to rally around Jafaar for another term and for APC to win all elective positions.

"I'm a die-hard APC Man with no reservations of my loyalty to the party, I'm here to categorically say that if Magaji can't get the ticket to return as our representatives, APC should forget about winning election in the zone.

" This Young Man has done it all, he paid the price of being a good leader for our people, and he is having the general acceptance of the political might to win his election without stress and APC in all elective positions.

"I'm seeing Madaji as the APC spine and the camelback of the party that cannot be broken if the ticket of the National Assembly will be given to him.

" Let's all support this Man for continuity that will benefit our people and our dear state and for the progress of our great party," Aliyu said

SDP Shall Win 2023 Polls,Says Officials, As Party Holds Convention In Kaduna

 By : Gambo Abubukar, Kaduna 

A top official from the Social Democratic Party, SDP has given a strong indication that the SDP would take over the Presidency and Kaduna State come 2023 General Elections.

Mr. Austin David Akwanya stated this when he called on Nigerians especially the youths  to vote SDP candidates irrespective of their religion or tribe .

Mr. Akanya who supervised the SDP delegates election in Kaduna State expressed satisfaction with the process of electing the delegates as everything went smoothly and according to plan .

While speaking to media men shortly after the election, Akanya urged the electorates to put an end to hunger, Insecurity and poverty by voting in SDP .He further charged the youths to be very proactive in all the electoral processes 

 The Youth Leader of the party, Mr Emmanuel Benjamin Shamaki  further exuded confidence in the capacity of the SDP to win the 2023 election especially in Kaduna State.

 Shamaki further added his party is ready and capable to rule the nation to greater height, adding that the purpose of lack of insecurity in this country is lack of getting together and networking.

In his remarked the SDP National Assistant Secretary North West zone, Idris Inuwa, also  expressed confidence with  the way people are moving in to  SDP massively. Adding that the APC have failed woefully

"Every Nigerians is feeling the pains of APC maladministration that's they they were running to our party.

Kaduna Councilors Forum Disowns Gunrunning Colleague, Said His Arrest Is Answered Prayers

The Kaduna State Councilors Forum has condemned their colleague nabbed with an AK 47 in Soba Local Government Area, describing his arrest by security operatives as prayers answered.

This was expressed in a statement signed by the Chairman Councilors Forum Kaduna State Chapter, Hon Auwal Sani Mohammed who doubles as Councillor Afaka Ward.

He called on the security operatives to investigate the issue thoroughly and if the accused is  found wanting, he should be used  as a scape goat for others to learn.

"What he did was not in the interest of councilors and the forum will never support such act.

"As you can recall, the forum met during Eid-el-Fitr  celebration, where they prayed that God should end the insecurity bedeviling the nation," the forum said.

The chairman of the forum noted that God has started answering their prayers.

He said the accused did it on his personal capacity as Abdullahi Adamu not as councillor.

Adamawa delegates of Hong, Gombi, Song LGs ago for Sen Bindow

Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Guber Primaries, Senator Bindow meets with APC delegates in Hong, Gombi and Song LGs as part of his ongoing consultations in Adamawa Central senatorial zone.

While at Hong, Adamu Magaji (Jugai) a senior stakeholder of the party in the area called on the APC delegates to vote for Bindow at the primaries.

Hon Attah Mustapha and Bishop Mike Moses also attend the meeting and assured Bindow of their votes.

At Gombi, Hon Dimas Maina, who spoke on behalf of the ward party chairmen, said, Bindow has done so much for the people of Gombi and party excos. He noted that while in office, governor Bindow gave them SAs, employment in different ministries and construction of 4 km Gombi bypass which is 85% completed before he left office.

 

Hon Rufai Gombi and Ibrahim Malafa also assured Bindow of block and sealed delegates’ votes. Hon Rufai begged Gov Bindow to reinstate the over 1000 workers sacked by the present administration.

At Song LG, Hon Hassan Dabuto a former Adviser to Gov Bindow, who spoke on behalf of the Stakeholders assured the ex-governor of 85% of delegates’ votes.

Dabuto added that Bindow has done so much in Song, more especially the construction of the Historic Gada Mayo Bridge that links the 2 communities in Song.

Hon Suleiman Zumo a former commissioner under the Bindow-led administration said, Senator Bindow’d achievements in Song local government have already earned him 90% of delegates’ votes.

Alh Inuwa Gudu an elder statesman assured the ex-governor of all delegate’s votes under his control.

Presidency: Fayemi In Borno, Yobe, Promises Quick End To Insurgency, Banditry

By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON

Ekiti state governor and a leading presidential aspirant of the All  Progressives Congress (APC) has received support of Yobe and Borno states' delegates, even as he promised to prioritise an to insurgency and banditry if given opportunity to serve.

A statement signed Friday in Abuja by the Fayemi  Campaign Organisation, Femi Ige, said the governor who led his campaign team comprising former APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Senator Shuaib Lawal, former National Secretary of the APC, Alhaji Tijjani Tumsal, popular national leader of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), Alhaji Haruna Dan Zago, Senator Domingo Obende, Mallam Garba Abari (DG NOA), promised to build upon the legacies of the Buhari administration and address the identified gaps immediately he becomes president.

In his words: "We will build on the legacies of  President Muhammadu Buhari and urgently address the identified gaps. Security will top my agenda as a security expert. I have a Ph.D in War studies and I consulted for Nigeria under President Olusegun Obasanjo, I was deeply involved in the resolution of the wars in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Rwanda and Sri Lanka. 

"We have a template that we'll use in bringing peace to our people, so that we can farm in peace, school in peace and live in peace. If I can do it outside why not for the country that has given me everything?"

Responding, he Borno state APC Chairman Hon. Ali  Bukar Dalori, said the Ekiti state governor is a preferred presidential candidate for the people of the state because "we know your qualities. 

"What you did for all the chairmen under me as the Chairman of all APC states chairmen in the country is unprecedented and that has nothing to do with ambition. That is the heart of a caring leader and our love for you is from the heart and we will demonstrate it with our support for you."

In Yobe, the statement said governor Mai Mala Buni was represented by the deputy and the entire state exco told the governor Fayemi not to dissipate energy selling ice to Icelanders "because this state is for you. You are the first to come and as you have remarked, it will be first come first served."

Addressing the Yobe delegates afterwards, Fayemi promised to ensure a quick end to insurgency, banditry and all pockets of disagreements in the country.

"My focus would be on bringing peace to my fatherland and ensure that the Ibadan man finds home in Sokoto and the Sokoto man finds home in Akure, Abakaliki, Onisha or Owerri. The Oweri man must find home in Damaturu. This is the Nigeria I want to fight for and I'm confident it's achievable."

Speaking with newsmen on the issue of zoning within the party afterwards, Fayemi said zoning of the presidential seat in the 2023 electioneering will build trust and confidence in the Nigeria project taking cognisance of the diverse ethic configuration of the country.

"Nigeria is a diverse country and there are diverse competency. There are competent people across the the country but in a multi-cultural, multi-dimensional and multi-religious society, you also need zoning to build trust and confidence," he declared.

He however said zoning should not suppress competence and democracy, even as he asked politicians to abide by whatever zoning arrangements put in place by their parties. 

He promised to abide by the APC decision on the issue.

Make Public Example Of Murderers Of Sokoto Student, Northern Christian Elders Task Govt

While describing the act as murder wearing the robe of religion, the Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has  tasked the government to bring the perpetrators to book a public example.

NOSCEF expressed this in a statement signed by its Chairman, Engineer Ejoga Oyinehi  Inalegwu, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Friday, May 13, 2022.

"We also urge the government to make a public example and make a new statement by quickly bringing the perpetrators to book. In the same vein, we plead with the government not to be distracted  from sustaining the war against the deteriorating insecurity and insurgency by the charging political atmosphere," it said.

NOSCEF condemned the brutal murder of the young girl, Debora Yakubu, "who was innocently expressing herself on a class group chat by a mob instigated from within her classmates. 

"The death of Debora Yakubu is one too many by mobs wearing a cloak of religion in the North. In a country where there is a law, nobody, group or individuals has a right to take another’s life whatsoever, outside the due process of law," it said.

The group welcomed the condemnations across board, but  said, they hope "this will not be the usual rhetoric of condemnations and then the case is swept under the carpet with publicized arrests, no prosecution or jaundiced prosecution and letting of the hook, when the outcries die down.

"One day it is the videoed execution of Christians in the North because of a said killing of a terrorist in Syria and next what should have been an internal WhatsApp class platform chat results in mob action murder, wearing the robe of religion in our dear North," it added.

The group urged the authorities to commit themselves to stamping out these brutalities that have no value for life before they completely consume the entire North in particular and Nigeria as a nation, if Nigeria is not dismembered as a result. 

"NOSCEF commiserates with the family of Debora Yakubu in their period of grief and this avoidable pain and urge Nigerians to rally round them to comfort and lessen their grief," the group added.

Amb Buratai: Enter the 'Golden Fish' Crowned JAGUNMOLU of Saki

Who says that an iconic military officer like Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai, with dazzling accomplishments, will not always be revered? Unlike other prophets, TY Buratai, has had the singular honour to be celebrated on countless occasions, here in Nigeria, and in the diaspora?

If the maxim, "A golden fish has no hidden place," holds water, then Gen. Buratai (rtd), the immediate-past Chief of Army Staff, COAS, is yet to 'see anything', so far it has to do with honourific traditional titles being bestowed on his legendary, towering and illustrious personality.

It is germane for readers' mind to be refreshed on who Buratai is, and also, what he embodies? To avoid been tagged a 'praise-singer', this writer, by himself, will eschew describing the ex-COAS' glowing persona. Others' opinion will suffice.

For David Onmeje, a United Kingdom-based Nigerian Public Affairs Commentator: "Gen. Buratai has proven to be one of the greatest accomplished soldier, innovator, strategist and conqueror to ever emerge in Nigeria’s recent history of the Army. 

"In his desire to transform and enhance operational efficiency of soldiers in combating insurgency, Buratai, as Army Chief, railroaded the Nigerian Army to the next level by establishing the first Nigerian Army Aviation School (Corps)".

"And to further demonstrate his exceptional commitment to the continuous training of soldiers and exposure to the ever dynamic world of knowledge in warfare, Gen. Buratai, as COAS, conceived the idea of Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB). He aggressively pursued it to fruition within a short time.

"Under the guidance and able leadership of Buratai, who was the immediate-past ombudsman of counter-insurgency operations, the transformation of the Nigerian Army rapidly manifested like torrents of rain. 

"The incontrovertible truth is that Gen. Buratai was able to reform and reposition the NA into a professional, responsive and responsible force. Having raised the NA to that high pedestal, troops, under his leadership, discharged their core constitutional mandate marvelously on Internal Security (IS) and counter-terrorism operations.

"Therefore, it is not empty bragging that since the return of democracy in Nigeria in 1999, no other COAS demonstrated sheer pragmatism in repositioning the Nigerian Army into a symbol of pride to Nigeria, than the Borno State-retired Army General. 

"Buratai went to great and admirable extents to restore the lost glory of Nigerian Army and soldiers. Posterity will remember him as a great soldier, patriot and leader of inestimable value".

In a more superlative term, Nkechi Odoma, a public affairs analyst, highlighted what made the longest-serving COAS in Nigerian Army's history tick.

Odoma, in a piece she titled, "Buratai’s enduring legacy of excellence," noted: "The name General Tukur Yusuf Buratai might not fade away anytime soon. The name has continued to resonate with the exploits of the Nigerian Army in the prosecution of the war against insurgency in the country. 

"I say this for the principal fact that while he held sway as the Chief of Army Staff; it was indeed a golden era in the annals of the Nigerian Army.

"Ambassador TY Buratai, in some quarters, has been described as that Chief of Army Staff that left enduring legacies that redefined the ethos in counterinsurgency operations and civil-military relations. 

"I must add that these two pillars were somewhat the hallmarks of the TY Buratai era in the Nigerian Army. The records are readily available for perusal. Hate him or love him; he was the soldier and the commander at the same time. 

"He was in the trenches with the troops, commissioned projects, and engaged the intellectual community. He was robust and broad in defence of democracy in Nigeria.

"The list is endless, and I would classify him in the region of legends that came, saw and conquered. And the awards and recognitions were not in short supply. At some point, it became a harvest of awards from within and outside the country. 

"Needless I mentioned his conferment with the Brazilian Military Order of Merit Award, which is the highest military honours awarded to those military officers that have distinguished themselves in various military endeavours.

"Looking at the Nigerian Army before and after him indeed reveals tales of an enduring legacy of unalloyed commitment and passion to ensuring that the Nigerian Army regains its pride of place in the preservation of the territorial integrity of the country. 

"And this much he ensured through the numerous reforms carried out. I beg to state that the overarching objective was to transform the Nigerian Army into a professional force that implements its operational strategies with internationally recognized rules of engagement.

"Under TY Buratai, the welfare of officers and soldiers was prioritized, so much so that it boosted the morale of a force that was hitherto laced with lethargy. What some might not know is that this lethargic feeling was primarily responsible for the inability of the Nigerian Army to confront the Boko Haram insurgents.

"It's on record that in less than two years at the helm of affairs, the Nigerian Army gained ascendency over the Boko Haram group. The capture of the once dreaded Sambisa forest was the hallmark of the TY Buratai era.

"In my considered opinion, one of the strategies of TY Buratai was the boosting the morale of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army through numerous ways such as prompt payment of salaries and allowances, massive improvement in the living standards in army barracks across the country and the institutionalization of research and policy formulation. 

"For example, under TY Buratai, army barracks experienced a facelift. Command secondary schools were renovated and equipped with the best of facilities. The prestigious Nigerian Military School in Zaria also was not left out through the reintroduction of combat training to boost the students’ morale.

"Today, TY Buratai is the Ambassador of Nigeria to the Benin Republic. We must agree that the much regional cooperation in addressing the security challenges in Nigeria is gathering momentum. Nigeria is indeed blessed to have such a personality.

"My verdict is this; TY Buratai has undoubtedly raised the bar in leadership. And it behoves on those aspiring into leadership positions to take a cue. The lessons are of courage, character and competence. It was indeed an era of the enduring legacy of excellence".

Unlike politicians and other moneybags who inordinately covet titles, but will not let their outstanding life accomplishments in place of money secure the titles, awards and honours for them, TY Buratai's indelible legacies and feats as COAS, are what always fetch him arrays of awards or chieftaincy titles.

In September 2019, late Sarkin (Emir) of Bwari, Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijokoro (II), during a visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja, bestowed the traditional title of “Birman Bwari” which translates to “The Courageous Defender of Bwari” emirate to Gen. Buratai.

This was in recognition of Buratai's remarkable achievements, then, as Army Chief, especially in the fight against terrorism in North-East. Amidst thunderous applause, Alh. Ijakoro, presented a sword of honour, copy of the Holy Qur’an and appointment letter to the COAS. 

It is worthy to note that Gen. Buratai is a recipient of plenty local and international awards, together with streams of chieftaincy titles since after emerging as 'Birman Bwari. 

But it was a day of pomp and undiluted celebration in Daki Community as the duo of Gen. Buratai, and Lt. Gen. Lamidi Adeosun (rtd), a former Army Chief of Policy and Plans, were conferred with traditional titles by His Royal Majesty, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, the Okere of Saki Kingdom.

During the ceremony, Buratai and Adeosun were conferred with the traditional titles of Jagunmolu of Saki Kingdom (the Benevolent Warrior) and Akinrogun of Saki Kingdom (Unique Warrior Lover), respectively.

The conferment took place at the palace of Okere of Saki, shortly after Juma’at Prayer at Saki Central mosque.

It is essential to state that the two Generals were the first non-indigenes of the Saki kingdom to be honoured with such prestigious traditional titles of the domain, in special recognition of their numerous contributions to national development, peace and security.

Earlier at the Juma’at prayer, the Chief Imam of Saki thanked Gen. Buratai for his wonderful disposition towards the Saki kingdom while serving as Chief of Army Staff as manifested in the various humanitarian assistance to the domain.

He cited the establishment of the Command Science Secondary School, boreholes and other infrastructural development projects.

Shortly after their conferment with the titles, which involved the traditional decoration with the spiritual leaves and presentation with other regalia and office paraphernalia, Buratai, Nigeria's Ambassador to Benin, responded on their behalf.

He thanked His Royal Majesty, the Okere of Saki, for the honour and recognition, which he said they would not take for granted. He also reiterated their resolve to be loyal and dedicated to discharging their roles as holders of those titles.

As COAS, Buratai's benevolence was conspicuously manifest in the way he greatly prioritized the welfare of officers, and soldiers of the Nigerian Army. In fact, it would not sound hyperbolic to say that he was always there for wounded troops, just as widows and families of fallen heroes, who benefitted from his numerous empowerment programmes and financial supports, were never tired of singing his praises to high heaven.

And if the ruthless manner troops of the Nigerian Army pounded both Boko Haram and the Islamic State of West African Province, ISWAP, on several instances, during his stewardship, does not showcase the stuff Buratai's is made of as a 'Warrior and Nigerian Army' Chief Commander', then I don't know what else will.

Now, as the 'Benevolent Warrior' of Saki Kingdom, Gen. Buratai has his work cut out for him. He must, first, commit himself to the enviable task of assisting the Oba and his Chiefs maintain peace, unity and harmony in the domain, while also fighting to protect the 'sacred' interests of the entire Saki residents, at all cost.