LCCN council of Bishops says APC govt fail Nigerians on its 3 point Agenda on Insecurity, corruption and economy

.....Muslim Muslim ticket is retrogression and politics of exclusion created by the APC is against Democratic norms

.....Nigeria is going through acute economic crunch

*A PASTORAL STATEMENT OF THE BISHOPS' COUNCIL OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH OF CHRIST IN NIGERIA (LCCN) ISSUED DURING THEIR MEETING OF 29TH – 30TH JULY 2022 AT THE CHURCH HEADQUARTERS, NUMAN, ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA*

*Preamble*

We, the bishops of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) under the leadership of His Grace, Most Rev. Musa Panti Filibus PhD., met in Numan at the Church headquarters to pray together and also to deliberate on various issues relating to the life of the church, its service to society and national issues as they affect the church and the nation as whole. We are mindful of our roles as leaders in the community of Faith to pray, speak and act in ways that are transformational contributing to the common good of the wider society. We will be ceaseless in our prayers, in speaking truth to power and in acting rightly to the glory of God and good of God’s people.

We recognize that God has been gracious to His people in Nigeria, despite the increasing challenges of human sufferings in the country, the people are not without hope that someday things will be better. We commend the resilience of the people in the face of excruciating pains and sufferings. Most have not given up on the nation of Nigeria. The situations could have compelled most people to do otherwise, but they kept faith that in no distant time the narrative will be different, and the people will enjoy peace that is based on justice for all. We are confident that the people are consoled by the words of Jesus Christ in John 10:10, “the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy, but I came that you may have life and have it in its fullness.” 

*On the state of our nation*

It will be recalled that when this government was elected for its first term, the people across all regions and religions were excited and hopeful about the three (3) points agenda it committed to address, namely, Insecurity, Corruption and Economy. These agenda points gave the citizens some level of assurance that the government is serious to take on the issues that bedeviled the nation and further reinformed by the inaugural address of President Mohammadu Buhari (GCFR) during his swearing in ceremony where he categorically said that “I belong to everybody, and I belong to nobody.” Regrettably, our nation today is marked by laments rather than the joyful expectations with which the government was welcomed. What we are witnessing today is that politics of exclusion and nepotism in government are the order of the day. 

In Nigeria today, the issue of insecurity is worrisome and the worst ever in recent history. Citizens and residents now live in fear and anxiety for their safety and lives. The insecurity situation in the nation remains a major cause of concern. Unfortunately, bandits now have the courage to threaten to attack and kidnap the President and C-in-C of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is inconceivable! What gives them the audacity to contemplate such action? We are not only worried that the government seems not to be on top of the situation but also concerned that it appears the government that has the constitutional mandate to ensure the safety of its citizens is helpless in the face of such unprecedented insecurity situation that has befallen the nation. We are still waking from the shock of the attacks and kidnapping of passengers on Abuja-Kaduna railways, then the attack on Kuje Prisons where members of the notorious violent extremist group escaped and still at large. We are deeply saddened by recent videos of victims of kidnaps being tortured in the most inhuman way by their captures. This indeed is a sad episode to remember, that calls for the most urgent action from the government. We further hear of kidnapping of persons in their homes on daily basis and most recent, the attack on the presidential guards and rumors that the bandits are at striking position to the Federal Capital Territory. Painfully, this is the situation we have found ourselves in today in Nigeria. 

Further regrettable, the cases of corruption in public offices are not only increasing but worsening by the day. We hear and read of billions of Naira being stolen by people in position of trust. The greed level in our country is extremely high. Otherwise, why will an individual siphon public funds worth billions and still feel okay, how? Funds meant for pensioners, the vulnerable and others are stolen by those with privileged positions. These thieves sadly are shameless and will want to prove that they are falsely accused of embezzlement. This can only happen in our nation. Nigeria is tremendously blessed with all that humanity needs to thrive, but such endowments are used to benefit few at the expense of the bulk of the populace. This is unacceptable and must be openly condemned by all people of goodwill and those that mean well for this country.

The economic situation of the country is fluid and unpredictable. It can best be described that Nigeria is going through acute economic crunch. The prices of goods and services are daily on the increase in such an alarming rate, where the suffering of the poor masses is disheartening. Uncertainty in petroleum price even the unavailability of the product, the dwindling purchasing power of the naira that today goes for above N700 (seven hundred Naira) to a dollar in the parallel market is a serious cause of worry. The inflation rate has risen to a record high of 17.0 percent in the history of the country. This is horrible, because the poor will continue to be poorer with huge dependents on the few working class, whose take-home pay do not often take them home. We continue to pray for God’s intervention in our case. Nigeria cannot afford to regress to the point of civil unrest like what happened in Sri Lanka.

*The ASUU strike and the future of our nation*

As parents and citizens of this nation, we have followed with sadness and greatest concern the trend of events in the ongoing issue of strike the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). The manner this matter has remained protracted is not good for the Nation. The future implications on us all including lawlessness, crime, low productivity, and failure as a nation can best be described in tears.

The continuous stay at home of our children who should be focusing on their studies is a national disaster and draws back our national progress. Therefore, the government should as a matter of urgency resolve this issue finally. We equally call on the lecturers to also allow room for constructive deliberations to ensure that our universities are reopened as soon as practicable.

*Politics of retrogression*  

Despite these challenges, the Nigerian state has found itself moving towards a greater precipice that shows disregards for our God given diversities. This is demonstrated by the configuration of the presidential ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The Muslim-Muslim Ticket question! 

While it is not in the position of the church to fiddle into such issues as determining who emerges as a presidential candidate of a political party, the church being aware that it does not exist in a vacuum but bound to obey the constitution of Nigeria, we believe that the present position of the APC no matter how it is explained does not mean well for a nation that is trying to deepen the culture of democracy and democratization processes for the good of all people in their diversities. 

More so, as a church in Northern Nigeria we should be more concerned about this political configuration looking at the profile of our children and members of unquestionable integrity who have contributed immensely to the development of this nation and even the All Progressive Congress who would have balanced the religious line but put aside for no cogent reason. This is no doubt bad omen for our national cohesion and integration because it is not true that there are no competent Christians in Northern Nigeria that can complement the flagbearer as they want us to believe. We are not so worried because we are not completely without options but concerned that the ruling party that should demonstrate leadership in nation building by recognizing religious diversities and fostering politics of inclusivity has decided to exclude others on the guise of votes aggregation. We shall do our part as we trust God to guide the nation aright for our greater good as his people.

*Our call*

Considering the foregoing and as those called to the service of God and humanity with responsibility to intervene during times like this, we and in strongest affirmation of the position of the national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, we call on:

1. Christians in Nigeria to continue to pray not only for the liberation and welfare of the nation but to be intentional in their roles as active citizens of Nigeria maintaining a high standard of morality and ethics in public governance. 

2. The church in Nigerian to continue to shine the light of Christ as acts that contribute towards the realization of justice, peace, and reconciliation in the nation and among the people.

3. Christians to remain truthful to our faith and as disciples of Christ, we must maintain a firm stand knowing that  we are critical stakeholders in the making of better country for all who reside in Nigeria, bearing in mind that by the help of God, we shall overcome as we collectively resolve to do what is right and acceptable in the sight of God of life.

4. The government to double its efforts to confront the enemies of the good people of Nigeria. We believe that the Nigerian Armed Forces are well equipped and able to defeat forces that are making life difficult for the citizens. We recognize and appreciate the sacrifices that our security personnel are making on daily bases towards securing the nation by themselves being on harm’s way, but more is required to be done. We send our condolences to families of our security personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the course of duty and assure of our continuous prayers for God’s guidance and protection, while also praying for God to expose the bad eggs among them and those that are behind this alarming insecurity in the country.

5. The government to make provision for palliatives to support the suffering populace, particularly the most vulnerable who are unable to go to their farms because of the fear of the unknown. The government cannot ignore or pretend not to know that the people are suffering. The government must know that its legitimacy is contingent on the joys and peace of its citizens. 

We commit to pray, speak and act together for the wellbeing of our one and only country Nigeria.

May justice and peace reign supreme in Nigeria, Amen.

*Issued today, 30th July 2022*

Muslim -Muslim Ticket: Babachir, Dogara Not Fighting for Christians,but Selfish Interest - Group

Northern based religious group under umbrella of Arewa Coalition  for Good Governance has said the hardline positions of Former Secretary to the Federal Government; Mr. Lawal Babachir, former House of Representatives Speaker,Rt. Hon.Lawal  Dogara and Adamawa Lawmaker, Senator Ishaku Abbo over issue of the All Progressives Congress, APC's choice of Muslim-Muslim ticket are based on selfish interest. 

According to the group, their anger is premised on the fact that none of them was picked as running mate and not on issue of Muslim-Muslim Ticket as it being projected .

"At a time when all critical  stakeholders of APC are supposed to be working for unity and progress of the party during the  forthcoming 2023 general elections, they have decided to deploy religious sentiments  as a weapon of war to discourage Christians from Tinubu/Shettima", the group posited  .

In  a press statement signed by the Leader of the Coalition of Christian groups for Good Governance,  Elder Peter Sati Auta,the group hold the view that, " Nigerians , especially the Electorate are wise enough to know that whipping religious sentiments against any candidate is not the solution to the challenges of insecurity; dwindling economy, Insurgency, high unemployment rate, bad governance and other problems militating against progress and development of Nigeria .

While stating that Holy Bible gave Christians the mandate to pray for  leaders, it noted "anything out of this is not only unhealthy ,but retrogressive".

This amongst several reasons is why as Christian leaders in various churches , we decided to come out  and  speak against the divisive move by our brothers to create a religious crack in the polity ahead of the 2023 elections . 

"Instead of holding nocturnal  meetings to fight the issue of of Muslim -Muslim Ticket, we expected them to spend energy on   talking about about how to contribute their quota to finding solutions to plethora of above mentioned  problems that over the past twenty years have served as cog in the wheel of progress."

While noting in that statement that  Babachir and Dogara could be the ones working  to overheat  the polity and destroy same party that gave them platform of political relevance, It stressed, we hold the view that this is nothing but mere selfish interest  of the spent forces ,which should should be rejected outrightly ".

The statement further reads : "Everyone knows that both Former Lagos State Governor ,Asiwaju Bola  Tinubu  and former Borno Governor , Alh. Kashim Shettima are not religious bigots ,so the earlier they know that  the idea of whipping religious sentiments against won't work . 

"It is in public domain that Tinubu and Shettima helped good numbers of Christians during their days as Governors of Lagos and Borno.

"Where were they,when the heavy  campaign of calumny of  been a  "Religious Bigot" was muted  against Buhari? Of course , some of  them supported him to win and  were later  compensated with appointments. Even with all the unprintable  names Buhari was called ,yet they worked for him. 

The group also asked,  " When Babachir and Dogara held public offices ,at what point did they speak or work for Christians ?

Reacting to  what it described as "Senator Abbo's  outburst on the Muslim-Muslim ticked problem, it simply asked ,"Was the sex toy scandal and slapping of the lady at the sex toy shop part of religious evangelism? 

We are urging Christians to shun Babachir ,Dogara and Senator Abbo's divisive strategies and vote candidates of their choice regardless of religion and tribal backgrounds. Adding ,"The most important thing for Nigerians now is come out during the elections and  vote good leaders based on merit ; experience and records of performance .

FIRS is worst corrupt under Nami, employment is either by cash and carries or on VIP treatment basis, APC loyalist worries

A staunch loyalist of All Progressives Congress, APC, Aliyu Modibbo Abdulkadir said Nigeria's economy is badly being damaged beyond redeemable with corruption that has perforated the country's fabrics of development.

Aliyu granted an interview in Yola on the issue of the nation's security, economy, and corporate existence and lambasted Muhammadad Mamman Nami, the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS)  for allowing corruption to permeate the organization's system.

He said that FIRS is no longer a Nigerian Agency, but a place meant for only very important personalities  (VIPs) and those born with silver spoons to work in the organization.

Modibbo alleged how a desperate relationship paid over four millionaires for his son to secure a Job in the place when someone contacted him of ongoing secret employment.

He narrated how the organization has cornered employment to a few Nigerians and to others they make the appointment for only those that can afford to pay million.

He made a passionate appeal to President Muhammad Buhari-led's government to know that this is not the kind of APC he promised Nigeria people and that leaving Nami in that office will destroy the image of the  Naira.

Modibbo revealed that a lot of employment has been going on in recent times under the secrete ambit of the FIRS Chairman meant for Nigerians who are in the corridor of power or have millions of naira to buy the chop.

This development according to him is not healthy and the President is handling the matter of employment irregularities in the FIRS and many places like EFCC, and NNPC with kid's gloves.

"I'm calling on EFCC to investigate the many abnormalities going on there, and President Muhammad Buhari to sack the FIRS. This is absolute nonsense and bad to the unity of the country." Modibbo said 

He badly lamented the country is going its worst security level and the economy is going negatively against its citizens and organizations like FIRS should not be adding injury to our wounds 

Efforts were made to reach Nami on phone wires abortive to the time of press as his number available to us for the past three days was not going through.

Adebayo Felicitates With Muslims Ummah over Islamic New Year

 The Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adebayo Adewole on Saturday rejoices with Muslims all over the world on New Islamic (Hijri) Year 1444.

Adebayo in a statement issued on Saturday wishing the Muslims a beautiful nee year.

He said: 

“I wish all Moslems, brothers and sisters, worldwide a most beautiful and very happy Islamic Year full of Mercy and Grace of Allah SWT”.

The SDP Presidential Candidate also used the opportunity to pray for Nigeria in these troubling, humbling times and a world in need of truth,justice and peace

Turakin Dujima tasks Youth to obtain PVC, avoids thuggery.

By

Zakari Isah Kaduna

….calls on politicians to help the vulnerable.

A grassroots politician and PDP youth mobilizer, Ahmad Umar Turakin Dujima have urged people in Kaduna North local government area and Kaduna state to move quickly and register for their permanent voters’ cards (PVC) with just a few days left before INEC closes the registration.

Turakin Dujima who made the call while commenting on the significance of voter’s cards to an election, also noted that the populace has now understood the fact that having their PVCs will enable them to vote for the candidates of their choice in the 2023 General Elections.

“I want you to vote Alhaji Atiku Abubakar for president, Honourable Isa Ashiru Kudan as the next Kaduna State governor, and our incumbent House of Reps Member Samaila Suleiman to yet again represent us”.

“I don’t regard, politics as a do or die thing, as recent development regarding MS Uztas is an eye, you can see even those he was serving have done little or nothing to assist secure his release, this is a concern to me even though we are not from the same party”.

He said participation in the electoral process will provide the youths opportunity to be part of governance and enable them to determine who to entrust with their future and that of the country.

“As the leaders of tomorrow there is no better time than now to take this opportunity and make ourselves relevance and participate in this electoral process” he noted.

The youth mobilizer urges all Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity to register while praising INEC for making the process of registering and obtaining a PVC seamless.

Ahmad Umar Turaki while advising the people to be mindful of their security and report any suspicious persons to security operatives, called on the politicians to help the vulnerable, especially now with the economic downturn.

“We must watch each other’s back and remain security conscious and pass information of any suspicious person to guard against criminals”

It could be recalled that the Turakin Dujima, expended about ten million naira, as a humanitarian gesture to improve the economy of households around Badarawa, Unguwan Rimi, Kawo, and another part of Kaduna North local government.

“This said gesture is to touch humanity thereby providing to the less privileged in my communities”, he reechoed.

END

Insecurity: Nigeria Government Highly Insensitive To Danger Signals - Dr Mike Idoko

A Policy Analyst in the Nigeria capital city, Abuja, Dr. Mike Idoko, has blamed the incessant attacks by terriorists in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) on the insensitivity of Federal Goverment.

Dr. Idoko made this known in a review made available to Journalists in Kaduna on Friday, where he said the Federal Government lacks proactive approach to tackle the security challenges confronting the country, especially the vulnerable Nigerians.

The Administrator, who is also a resident of the area council in Abuja, lamented the incessant attacks on Abuja residents and strategic government facilities, adding that Nigerians must cry out before Abuja is overrun by men of the underworld.

He said: "The security situation in the Nation's capital city continued to deteriorate, while government pretend nothing is happening. As a resident in the capital city, I x-rayed the invasion of the Nation's capital city gradually but aggressively from the periphery and if no measure is taken sharply, the insurgents may extend their attack to the city centre." He said.

The seasoned University professional Administrator, also recalled the bombing of the Nyaya urban mass motor park in May 2014, the bombing of St. Theresa catholic church, Madalla, a suburb town bordering Abuja and Niger state on 25th December 2012, said the experience at that time alone is enough to put up strategic measures that could curtail further attacks, but reverse was the case.

In the review, He stated that "it appeared the insurgents are gaining more confidence as it was reported that they ambushed and killed military men at a location in Bwari Area council and at the foot of Zuma rock in madalla on separate attack in July 2022. 

He further recalled the attacked of the sheda Village of Kwali Area Council and kidnapped of couple, leading to closure of the only Unity school, FGC Kwali, within the vicinity in July 2022, adding that the effect was the panic generated and the harp hazard conduct of terminal examinations and force shutting down of other public and private secondary and primary Schools in the capital city.

 In thesame vein, Dr. Idoko lamented over the sporadic shooting heard around the Dantata bridge in the heart of the city and around the Zuma rock at Kaduna road on 25th and 28th July 2022 respectively, reiterated that the Government of the day is highly insensitive to the danger signals from the men of the underworld in the nation's capital and Nigeria must cry out before Abuja is overrun as had being the case in major towns in the  North-east, North-west and Ondo state of the south-west. 

He also called on the government to expedite action in resolving the lingering industrial crisis between the University unions (ASUU, SSANU, NASU and NAAT) to enable the teaming  youths go back to their studies centre to avert being recruited into gangs and groups that may pose more danger to the nation.

Otumba: The Last Man standing, the only option for Adamawa Emancipation

The People of Adamawa have discovered a leader, a Man with a passion to serve, to deliver, and recreate a new haven that truly suggests the state as a land of beauty. His knowledge in government is measureless, his experience in leadership is far-flung and his far-reaching experience in business to woo investors of all races and countries has stretched out to many nations of the world.

Mustapha Umar Madawaki is now a household name with his Otumba title that has become a slogan of political change mantra in Adamawa. The Man has no doubt a discovery of wisdom, one of the state's Son that has what it takes to liberate, emancipate and salvage the State from the crutches of underdevelopment and put life, meaning, adding value into the political lifeline of the state.

In him is the girdle of strength to lead well, he holds in his hand the rod of direction that will take Adamawa to a haven of rest.

He is a beacon of hope, a glorious flying horse for the people of Adamawa State. It's a beckoning and a clarion call to Young and old to see Otumba Man support because He is a Man to beat the gubernatorial race of the state.

I have searched, I have analyzed, Among all the people clamoring to be the next Governor of Adamawa State, whether in PDP, APC, NNPC, or whatever party the Labour Party (LP) candidate in the person of Mustapha Madawaki (Otumba) capped it all, and got all the threads of a better Governor to come 2023 for Adamawa state.

The people have spoken in many ways to need him for the revered office. He gave life to APC where he sojourned and aspired to be the party's flag bearer. He put a good fight, a struggle that was considered by many party men he was the best for the party to win the 2023 election. But divergence interest and political hullabaloo of some mischief people have worked against him to lose in the primaries elections.

With his resilience and his good intentions for the state, the people with great voice beckoned on him to join the Labour Party, this is the party I now see hope for Adamawa people because a Man with a glaring ability to lead and secure the destiny of his people is now with the governorship ticket to wrestle out power from PDP government in 2023.

May I now shout it out and make it boldly in the tablet's heart of all and sundry that Mr. Otumba remains the best candidate for the people of the state.

His vision and dream of a new Adamawa state have made him the number one Gubernatorial aspirant to have a blueprint of what he prepared to deliver to the people of the state. He is the first to tour the state and revealed to the twenty local government areas of the mineral resources they have and what he can do for them in his first four years. 

May I, therefore, say that the greatest mistake that each voter can make is to vote against Labour Party? But a vote for Umar is the best way to get the state on yet another rail of development. A vote for Otumba is a value-added change, a wisdom that will set free everyone from a retrogressive government to a government of the people by the people and for the people. It's a progressive government with Umar saddled in the affairs of leadership. Adamawa will be secure, free, and well positioned to grow in all facets of life.

The moribund companies and industries owned by State Government like Mubi burnt bricks, Scope, Adamawa homes, savings, and many more will be revived and empowered to increase the internally generated revenue. 

This Man has the wherewithal, Otumba is more than able to turn around the state for World development. He has the potential to attract global attention, he is well equipped to make Adamawa earned the world news of positive stories of a captured Boko Haram state to a state that will capture the attention of the global economy. A state with a backward education to a revamped education forward every state. He is going to gear up the health Centres, the blocked waterways will run once again water in all the pipes of every locality in the urban towns and even villages.

I see Umar as the best and hope and the life-changing gear of the development of the state. This is who I can confidently call on all voters of Adamawa state to bargain their votes, rally their support around him, and give him the winning votes for a total victory to chase out ineptitude and selfish government agents who are in government to enrich themselves.

Otumba in Labour Party is salvation has come to all Adamawa Sons and Daughters, cast your vote wisely. It's not a party affair it is a personality affair. The call is just simple, thumps up for Umar and on the ballot, it should be a thumbs down for the labor party come 2023. It's the only way out. A way into another realm of development.

Otumba and Labor Party is for the emancipation of Adamawa state. The last and final option. This is my stand, my honest view in the interest of every one of us in Adamawa state.

Dan Garba, FIMC, IPSP, FBCM

Opinion writer and a Journalist

He wrote this from Yola-Adamawa State

He can be reached through this means:

08172570959

Insecurity: NIWOSEC postpones Nigerian Worker summit in Abuja

By Matthew Denis Abuja

The Board of Trustees, management of Nigerian Workforce Strategy and Enlightenment Centre (NIWOSEC) and General Organizing Committee of Nigerian Workers Summit (NWS)  Award 2022 has regretted the postponment of the summit scheduled for August 2nd to 4th, 2022

This is contained in a statement signed by the Executive Director and Lead Strategist of NIWOSEC, Dr David Kayode Ehindero and made available to Newsmen in Abuja on Thursday.

The statement reads " We regret to announce the postponment of this award event due to the insecurity challenge in the country. Though, we have committed massive resources to this cause.

" the effort, commitment and Support of our partners, stakeholders, Committees and numerous Workers who have showed interest from the public and private sectors is overwhelming.

"However, the postponment of the summit is beyond our control considering the worsening insecurity situation bedeviling the nation. Haven received security advice and calls the Nigerian Workers summit is regrettably hereby postponed. "

The statement noted that a new schedule will be communicated as soon the situation improves.

It emphasized " we assured our esteemed partners of commitment to see our vision in building a patriotic and value-adding workforce for a better Nigeria."

Adamawa YPP HoR aspirant begs constituents to hasten up for registration to meet INEC's dateline the

By Tom Garba, Yola

An Adamawa Candidate for Young Progressives Party (YPP) has begged all voters from Mayo Belwa, Jada, Ganye, and Toungo federal constituencies to hasten up the ongoing voter registration.

Engr Nurudeen Aliyu Hammanyero is hoping to represent the Federal Constituency as a House of Representatives (HoR) Lawmaker has enjoined them to go for the registration because the Independent electoral commission (INEC) may soon close the exercise.

"The INEC may soon close and remember our only tool to fight in the contest is with our opponents. Please, for the unrelenting Love and support you have toward me, and for the display of loyalty you have shown so far, I urge you once again to try and have your PVC for the 2023 election.

" I am therefore calling you again to be more patient making sure you get your PVC. This is the assurance and the guarantee that our victory and celebration come February 2023 is certain and possible.

"It is your most important aspect of why you are supporting me. The PVC is the only magic that can be played out for victory, it's the card in the game of 2023 politics that defines our future and the future of our entire constituency.

" We've gone far in the journey and have come a long way for the certainty of our victory. So go get your PVC before the dateline for our sake." Aliyu said

Aliyu thank them for giving their confidence in waiting to cast their votes on him to take over in his dream to chart a new course in building an enviable constituency with better laws.

"Your admiration and overwhelming support are what keep me going until we get to the green chambers of the National Assembly because you have decided against all odds and insisting on a new deal.

" Indeed a great hope and sign that we as a people can change and bring about greatness to ourselves and generation yet unborn." He added

Plateau 2023: Nentawe Not Qualified As Gov'shp Candidate, APC Group Warns Party

Following the recent publication of names of candidates of various political parties for the 2023 general elections by the electoral umpire, a group, comprised of some foundational members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) under the aeigies of Progressives Foundation Movement (PFM) has raised alarm over the publication of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe as 2023 party’s governorship candidate for Plateau state, reiterating it's earlier warning that the party may not have a valid candidate on the ballot at the general election.

PFM reminded the national leadership of APC under Senator Abdullahi Adamu of an earlier petition to him where all other aspirants that refused to participate in a purported primaries that produced Nentawe Yilwaltda Goshwe as governorship candidate, following alleged irregularities vowed to seek justice if the party fail to use the window period for substitution of candidates to right the wrongs.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja and signed on behalf of others by Mr. Jacob Gyang, Elder Victor Useni and Musa Ardo, said they cannot guaranty supporting the party to victory in the forthcoming elections unless the right thing is done.

"For the records, we are Bonafide members of the APC who are duly registered as required and whose membership is in compliance with the APC guidelines and constitutions.

"We painstakingly entrenched the party in the state and further still indicated our respective interests to contest the Governorship of Plateau state under the platform of the APC and in further compliance, took all the requisite steps including but not restricted to buying the party’s nomination forms, believing that the processes leading to the party primaries was not only going to be all inclusive, but was to be free, fair and credible such that its conclusion was to be easily acceptable and capable of galvanizing our collective efforts and unity of purpose towards ensuring the overall victory of the party in the state."

While emphasising that non-compliance to the party's guidelines and litany of undemocratic practices in the primary which foisted "an unpopular, unqualified aspirants in the person of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe on all of us," the group said despite the expressly stated process that delegates were to emerge via a democratic process of being elected at ward level and forms sold to the effect, "the case in Plateau state was completely different and in outright contravention of the APC Guidelines and Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022 (As Amended).

The statement claimed that "an unknown list of delegates was concocted in Jos, kept in Jos and was used, whereas the State Party Chairman had assured us of full compliance to the party guideline where from election of delegates was to be conducted in all the 207 Wards of the state on the scheduled date as indicated in the party guidelines. This can be verified by the INEC report on the Party Primaries in Plateau state."

The group therefore, said: "Given the last window of opportunity as prescribed by the Electoral Act (2022) as Amended. We once again reiterate and rest upon our earlier petitions on the invalidity of the candidacy of Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe and state unequivocally that unless the party takes urgent and acceptable decisive steps to address this issues, and amicably resolved same, we cannot guaranty supporting the party to victory in the forthcoming elections for the following reasons:

 

"That Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, was a staff of INEC until 23rd December, 2021 when he purportedly resigned his appointment but he had not resigned his appointment from the University of Agriculture, Makudi, from where he had gone to on secondment.

"Meanwhile records show that he had drawn salary to March, 2022. He joined the APC on the 6th of January, 2022 when party membership had been closed. All registers had been transmitted to INEC via State Party Offices. Not qualified to contest under APC platforms unless waiver is sought and granted and available evidence does not support the facts that this has been complied with. NEC of APC ceded powers of Granting Waiver and other statutory functions to NWC and it is not on record that either NEC or NWC has granted the said waiver to him or any aspirant. Moral burden to the APC and an embarrassment to INEC and all these facts are in public domain.

"As a leaders of the party in the state, despite knowing and having these facts at his fingertips, the governor chose to ignore, turn the black eye because of his self-serving interest to appease his In-laws and members of his immediate Family. 

Finally, we expect our great party to respectfully stitch the time and act responsibly with the sole objective of party unity, cohesion and victory in the forthcoming elections if and only if we must get involved."

Muslim -Muslim Ticket:Religion Shouldn't Be Basis for Electing Leaders- Clerics

Group of clerics based in North-East Geo-political zone have called on Nigerians to vote leaders on the basis of capacity and competency and not religion.

The clerics, who threw their weights behind the controversial Muslim-Muslim ticket observed that the absence of leadership ,bad governance and poverty are parts of the major factors why most Nigerians are  falling back to either religious or ethnic considerations for Electing Leaders.

"It is dangerous for Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and some Churches to  preach against Muslim-Muslim Ticket on the basis of religion.This no doubt is not only overheating the polity,but already creating acrimony between our 

Muslim brothers and Christians".It stated.

The group,which stated this in a press statement made available to Kaduna Journalists today asked Nigerians to only vote for people with proven track records of good Leadership in public offices such as ;the former Governor of Lagos State and APC presidential Flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate ,  former Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima.

The group however said ,"as clerics from the North-East,we can tell Nigerians that Shettima is though a Muslim ,he has open mind to tolerate christians."

It stated further:"We have studied all the political parties, their candidates and running mates and discovered that the Tinubu/Shettima ticket , despite being Muslim -Muslim Ticket is the best that could return Nigeria to path of sustainable progress and development .

"Nigeria is a country blessed with fertile arable land for farming and natural as well as human resources that could be harnessed to address the soaring problems of unemployment and insecurity challenges .

"We have prayed ,but only prayers can't do the magic .We must work hard and participate in the electoral process if we must get it right this time."

While noting that in developed countries such as; United States and Great Britain which are predominantly Christians, issues of religion are secondary during any electioneering process and we expect such mentality here, it stressed "God created all human beings equal in the world to coexist and live together as His children .

Northern Youth Demand Buhari's Immediate Resignation, Want ING To Supervise 2023 Polls

*suggests Atiku as President, Obi as Finance Minister, Tinubu As SSA

*order members nationwide to join NLC solidarity protests on ASUU  strike

A frontline influential group, Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF) comprising over 47 groups, has warned against rumoured plans to postpone or cancel the 2023 general elections in Nigeria, while demanding for the immediate resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari to pave way for a non partisan Interim National Government (ING) that would oversee the 2023 general elections.

NYLF National President, Comrade Elliot Afiyo made the group's position known at a press briefing in Minna, Niger State, ahead of the group's meeting with former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, popularly known as IBB on Tuesday July 26, 2022.

"We have observed and truly too, the clandestine moves and actions by some political stakeholders to create security crisis that will necessitate the shifting or cancellation of the presidential elections in February, 2023.

"We would like to unequivocally state that the NYLF is totally opposed to the shifting of the presidential election not to even talking of the cancellation. 

"We want to warn all the stakeholders that are surreptitiously working towards this line of thought, that if such decision is even taken, we will ensure that not a single APC candidate from top to the bottom, will be allowed to campaign in any part of the Northern States and FCT," the group warned.

According to the text of the briefing titied, "IT IS TIME FOR BUHARI TO RESIGN" sighted by our correspondent, NYLF  said that it is a known fact that 2023 presidential election is the most important and decisive election which will determine and define the future of the country and as such, everything humanly possible including personal and collective sacrifices must be carried out and seem to be done. 

"This is why the NYLF has been going round the country to consult and create awareness and also ensure that the voters especially the rural north, are not brainwashed and divided into religious or ethnic inclinations," Comrade Afiyo said.

He explained that, "it is a known fact that this government has failed in everything. Therefore, if at all it can no longer guarantee the safety of its citizens and conducive environment for the peaceful conduct of the 2023 elections, we strongly advise that President Muhammadu Buhari should resign now and an Interim Government which will supervise the elections in 2023 be formed if truly he is eager to go as he said. 

"The 2023 election dates remain sacrosanct and must not be tempered with," NYLF warned.

On whom that are backing to emerge in 2023, the group minced no words in reiterating that former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has their blessings, as well as that of 15 out of their 19 patrons.

"It is on record that NYLF has been championing the course of presidential elections since 1999. It has never been so overwhelmingly received support for a particular candidate like the Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 project. 

"For the first time,  15 out of 19 Patrons of our Forum unanimously agreed and directed us to support Atiku Abubakar’s 2023 project. 

"In line of this thereof, we are pleased to inform and declare our total support for Atiku Abubakar and his able TEAM also in the same vein directing all our Zonal, State and Local Government Coordinators to start mobilization with immediate effect.

"We would also like to inform our members and the public that none of our Patrons is actually against Atiku as being peddled. Only four Patrons are neither for or against Atiku," the group said. 

They therefore, stated categorically that  from  Tuesday, the 26th of July, 2022, the NYLF has declared her unflinching support and allegiance to Atiku Abubakar and his team come rain or sunshine.

"Consequently, we are calling on all our sister organizations in the North and our Partners in the South-West, South-East and South-South to activate their political weapons and get ready for mutual and beneficial collaborations and partnership as we did in 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015.

"Furthermore, it is imperative and absolutely necessary to state clearly that we are not supporting Atiku Abubakar because he is a Northerner. 

"Our support for him is purely based on our conviction that he is the only presidential candidate among all the Candidates that has the political will, capacity and judgmental reasoning to take tough and decisive actions towards bringing to an end, the security challenges bedeviling our nation.

"With Atiku Abubakar as the President, Peter Obi as the finance minister and possibly Bola Tinubu as the Presidential Adviser, Nigerians will have every reason to celebrate the new era," they declared.

On the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the group said that they, "we observed with great dismay that the government has remained so insensitive to the plight of the Nigerian students despite their promises during campaigns that they will ensure continuous and uninterrupted sessions in all our tertiary institutions.

"In this light, we direct all our state chapters to accept and honour the NLC invitations and participate fully in the planned protest," they said.

NYLF appreciated the nation's security agencies for their unfailing patriotism in defending NIgeria at all cost. 

"God Almighty will continue to protect and guide them," Comrade Afiyo prayed.

Muslim Muslim ticket: I want to see Sen Abbo resigning if he is a serious Christian

By Ezekiel Michael Kwada 

With so much venom, with what I can describe as anti-ballistic missiles and total condemnation of Muslim Muslim ticket against those who have conceived, pre-decided the Presidential ticket of Chief Ahmed Bola Ahmed Asiwajo Tinubu and his running mate Senator Kashim Shettima by the Adamawa State Northern Senator, Mr. Ishaku Abbo who is popularly known as Cliff. This is a huge difference between the conflict of interests of party loyalists.

Abbo from being a Senator of a zone in Adamawa state is seen fighting party gladiators and heavyweight party stalwarts. Joining the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir David Lawal, an APC top not are the only two from the North and Christians fighting the decision of the larger party interest.

Cliff dislikes the plans as is not a Christian support base and the agenda is against his faith. He is standing on his feet and fighting the ticket with all his might.

The Senator has positioned himself as one of the voices of Nigerian Christian, especially those from the Northern country to fight the All Progressives Congress (APC) for allowing Tinubu to commit an abominable sin against the Christians, by relegating them with their entire generation to political relegation, placing them to political exclusion with the Shettima of a paired ticket to Tinubu who are all Muslims.

In many forums and many Media outlets, Abbo has been read and seen to have declared against the Tinubu/Shettima by coming out clearly to reiterate his anger over the party's arrangement. He said it over and over, time without that is not going to support Tinubu winning his 2023 presidential aspirations.

Despite all his expressions of indignity of anger, and hate to stop Ahmed Bola Tinubu and the APC to carry out the Muslim Muslim ticket. Despite his open show of disagreement to stop the agenda over what he considered against his religion and the Christian community, APC and Tinubu have decided, finally end up unveiling Kashim to the world as the next vice president of Nigeria God's willing.

Now it is left for Abbo with all his cronies to vacate APC. This is where he can have greater glory and support, blessings, and awards for distancing himself from the blasphemy Sin. At this juncture of the political ranging fight of sharp disagreement views, I advise he denounce the party and all that he got in the party, this will earn him much respect and he has proven a point to the world yes indeed is a religious Man and protects the interest of his people (Christians).

His Choice of words over Shettima's selection as Vice President to Bola can't be chewed back to see him remain in APC, to him, the party is the last place he can remain going by what he said in the pages of newspapers, and his social media official that :

"My soul is not for sale, I can not trade truth for votes.

" You can't use me to cover up injustice. You cannot intimidate me Into accepting lies. Continue with the hate and spread of lies. I will never apologize for saying the truth. I stand for truth no matter the prize.

"If we are thrown into the blazing fire, the God we serve can deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your hand. But even if he God does not deliver us, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve you or worship the image of gold you have set up.

" It is better to sleep under a bridge in heaven than living in a duplex in hell fire. I can't trade truth for votes."

Those are his views and his words to the world, his hatred against the APC is no longer news. He has finally decided that because of his faith or religion the party is not the place he can be. It will be taboo for him to remain at the party.

To some, they see Abbo as a hero of faith. A Lion and the king of the jungle and a Leopard who can see a Lion eye ball to eye ball and tell him that you are not a King of the jungle. Yes, he is right in his sense. But to me, if Abbo wants to prove his love for his people and be a Man of his words,  is to leave the APC, and relinquish his status as a senator of the Federal Republic who is representing the good people of Adamawa Northern Senatorial zone.

I refer my Brother to the Holy Bible in the book of 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 where it says:

" Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

" And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Arisa part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

"And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye is the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

"And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty."

I think his discontinued political journey in APC should end in 2023 after he must finish his tenure. So leaving APC, his party is the first honor and blessing he will receive here and hereafter come 2023.

I'm watching, I'm sure he will resign seeing the firmed decision he took based on religious lines against his party. With his open rebuke and his reprobate mind of reprove, in 2023 can he go to the people of Maiha, or Mu, bi North or Mubi South to canvas votes for Tinubu? Will his hate for Muslim Muslim tickets give him votes in those areas that are representing and hope they should vote for him in 2023? Can he face them with the arch-enemy of the Muslim Muslim join? ticket.

Ezekiel Michael Kwada

Is an opinion writer, wrote this from

Michika, Michika LGA,

Adamawa State

Peter Obi Movement POM Appoints Adamu Yusuf As National Secretary

Peter Obi Movement POM

has appointed former Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists Kaduna State Council Adamu Yusuf as the National Secretary.

In a statement by the National Coordinator of the Movement Citizen Rev. Ime Eliashab says the board of trustees has approved the appointment.

" By this appointment Citizen Adamu Yusuf becomes a member of our National Executive Council (NEC) and that of National Working Committee (NWC)" he said.

He congratulated the newly appointed National Secretary on behalf of all members of Peter Obi Movement and wish him a success during his tenure.

The appointed National Secretary of POM Adamu Yusuf is a staff of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.

2023: Group Begins Mobilisation Of 1m Volunteers For Atiku's Presidency

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, a support group loyal to former vice president Atiku Abubakar, on the aegis of Unify and Coalesce, has said it will within 60 days, mobilise one million volunteers to work, educate and bring awareness to millions of Nigerian voters across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria towards the actualisation of the Atiku/Okowa presidency.

The group, comprising of Nigerians from all walks of life and professionals had in 2019 worked for the PDP presidential candidate on the aegis of Atiku Political Support Group (Atiku PSG). 

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, signed by its national coordinator, Chief Edobor Ozakpolor, and its interim secretary, Odumale Ogedegbe, said new coordinators will soon be named among the youth across the 774 local government areas of the country.

According to the statement, Nigeria has both political and economic challenges, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is better placed  to fix our economy with the right policies and decisions, this can be gleaned from his performance as VP from 1999 to 2003, a period Nigeria witnessed all the progress we enjoy today, the facts are there to be interrogated.

"Our group, Unify and Coalesce, will within 60 days, mobilise one million volunteers to work, educate and bring awareness to millions of Nigerian voters across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria towards the actualisation of the Atiku/Okowa presidency.

"Smarting from our activities of the 2019 General Elections under the aegis of ATIKU PSG (ATIKU POLITICAL SUPPORT GROUP) and several other support organisations that worked in 2019, we are regrouping under the umbrella of Unify and Coalesce to reflect the renewed verve, vision and plan.

"New coordinators will be named amongst the youth across the 774 local government areas of the country. These youths are the savvy, informed and technologically driven to deliver our messages digitally and door to door.

"Our renewed commitment and convictions that the Atiku/Okowa joint ticket stems from the fact that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is the most prepared to steer the ship of the state come 2023."

While calling on Nigerians to aid eligible voters to be prepared to see a 'Unify and Coalesce' Volunteer in their neighbourhood in the coming weeks, the group said: "We also realise that Nigeria is not a turnkey project and it is therefore important that care, experience and political sagacity are brought to the table come 2023, we are constrained to submit that mere rhetorics and wishful thinking cannot lead us anywhere, skills and experience remains a vital key.

"On security, we have carefully examined all the candidates vying for Nigeria’s presidency and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar still comes tops. ATIKU is the man with the handshake that touches the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, a business man that needs peaceful environment where we can all thrive, the most liberal, the most loved and the most prepared for the job.

"We therefore, call on all well meaning Nigerians and eligible voters to be prepared to see a 'Unify and Coalesce' Volunteer in their neighbourhood in the coming weeks."

Suspension of National Chairman, Organisating Sec, NRM Counters Former Chairman

The national leadership of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), said that the National Chairman, Amb. Isaac Udeh and the Organizing Secretary, Mohammed Dirisu Isah are not on suspension.

The party further dismissed every news platform report that the two respected members of the Party's National Working Committee (NWC) have been suspended.

The attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the National Rescue Movement(NRM) has been drawn to a fictitious report being circulated by a section of the social media and other News media platforms suggesting that the National Chairman and National Organizing Secretary of our great Party,  have  been suspended in a purported meeting presided over by the former National Chairman, Senator Saidu Dansadau with some unidentified elements and disgruntled members of the Party.

 The action of Senator Dansadau is akin to a man who after selling a goat would still hold unto the rope.

 

Senator Dansadau acted against the provisions the constitution of our great party without recourse to the doctrine of calling for an Emergency meeting under Article 8. Also, he lacks the powers to represent any organ of the party , under Article 7 section 7 which provides that

 " Board Members shall be appointed by the National Executive Committee of the Party, who shall present them to the National Convention for ratification and shall be drawn from the different parts of the country composed of Seven Members of national statutes, who shall be appointed by the National Executive Committee".

Its Imperative to make it clear to the public that the Amb.Isaac Udeh-led National Working Committee came on board March 30, 2022 and has not at any time carried out this function due to exigencies  of the Office as well as  ongoing consultations to evaluate candidates submitted for such Office. It is instructive and for the records  that at no point has the newly elected National Executive Committee constituted a Board nor appointed any one as it's Chairman.

It is therefore ironical that such a man,  who self appointed himself Chairman of the BoT and it's members to call for a purported NEC meeting with rented crowd hired by Mazi Okwudili to suspend a duly elected Officers of the Party under frivolous and unfounded allegations. 

The media and members of the public are advised to distant themselves from impostors parading themselves as party officials until further notice.

One would have thought that a former Law maker of Senator Dansadau's standing should know better that after reporting a case to the police and DSS to stop the substitution of his preferred candidate with too many baggages that may cause the party an irreparable damage in the elections could have allowed the law enforcement agents to do their job but for reasons best known to him or out of desperation embarked on  this fruitless and satirical journey.

The Party advises the former Chairman and former Presidential Candidate, Mazi Nwa-Anyajike not to resort to cheap blackmail nor media warfare but explore the window of the law to prove its cause or risk the consequences of their actions.

The National Working Committee therefore described such gathering as completely illegal and the outcome of such meeting can not stand. It can only happen in the imagination of mischief makers with the intent to destabilize the Party, create an impression of crisis within its ranks and mislead the unsuspecting members of the public.

It is clear that the illegal suspension report is the handiwork of vicious anti-people forces, who are agitated by the stability, unity and soaring popularity of the Party under the cohesive Amb. Isaac Udeh-led National Working Committee.  

Its also important to make good use of this medium to set the record straight on the allegations of forgery, extortion among others against the two officers of the party by former Presidential Candidate, Mazi Nwa-Anyajike. The Man, Mazi Nwa-Anyajike that came up with this malicious allegations can never be trusted as his contradicting and inconsistency statements call for concern.

In trying to display his falsehood tendencies, at a point he claimed before the Nigeria Police that he paid N14 Million for Nomination and Expression of interest forms while the report in the news stated he paid the sum of N20 Million into the party’s account. He paid only the sum of N5 million as against the N19 million  approved by the party.   

Its obvious that our party can not in anyway condole this human being with unstable mind.

 Mazi Nwa-Anyajike has displayed characteristics of a Political jobber over time.  However, the Party will act in accordance with our constitutional provisions to deploy our internal  mechanism to resolve the issues and move the party forward. 

The NWC therefore urges all members of our great Party, our teeming supporters, the media and the general public to disregard the said report as malicious and lacking in substance.

The lawyers will say "you do not build something on nothing:.

The leadership of NRM hereby call on every member  to remain resolute and keep praying for successful 2023 general elections.

The National Working Committee will in no distance time call for legitimate National Executive Committee meeting.

Signed:

Sola Afuye

National Publicity Secretary 

NRM

Muslim Muslim ticket: My soul is not for sale, I cannot trade truth for votes, Sen Abbo says

....you can't use me to cover injustice, he says

By Tom Garba,Yola

The Muslim Muslim ticket arrangement of the All Progressives Congress, APC, party didn't go well with some of the party's loyalists.

Adamawa State Senator Representing the Northern Senator District, Mr Ishaku Abbo is one of such party members who have shown an open disagreement with the the Ahmed Bola Tinubu choice of Senator Kashim Shettiman as his running mate.

Abbo was in forefront campaigning for the realization of Tinubu's presidential ticket but back stepped his support for Tinubu on the twist of plan of his Muslim Muslim adoption.

In a recent post on his Facebook verified page, Ishaku has during a meeting with some of his constituents in Mubi said some people are threatening his life and vowed to defeat him in the coming 2023 election.

He said those threatening to defeat him has no capacity because he is standing on truth which he value more than anything.

He Condemned the ongoing coordinated campaign against him portraying him to be an enemy of Islam because of his open criticism of either Muslim Muslim ticket, or Christian Christian ticket.

"I see few coordinated campaigns going on against me portraying me as an enemy of Islam more especially from people with no political support base because of my rejection of a Christian/Christian or Muslim/Muslim ticket at a national level which to me contradicts sections 14:3, section 16:1-3 and section 142 of our constitution." Abbo said

He threatened legal action against an online media to have been carrying malicious and defaming headlines against him.

"Also An online paper YOLA 24 are to carrying malicious and defaming headings against me. I warned them personally with respect to the freedom of press but seems they do not know where their rights ends and others’ rights starts. I have authorized my lawyers to look into those misleading publications with a view of taking legal action.

"For the records, those threatening to defeat me has no capacity to defeat me because I am standing on TRUTH which I value more than anything.  I told you before that I cannot trade truth for votes. My soul is not for sale." He added

Abbo continued to say that nobody can use him to cover up injustice:

"You cannot use me to cover injustice. You cannot intimidate me Into accepting lies. Continue with the hate and spread of lies. SIA will never apologize for saying the truth. I stand for truth no matter the prize. That’s why I am SIA.

He quoted the Bible in the book Daniel 3:17-18:

"If we are thrown into the blazing fire, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your hand. But even if he God does not deliver us, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve you or worship the image of gold you have set up."

He singled out one of the APC Stakeholder in the Adamawa northern zone, Kwacham Buba Abdurahaman and praised him for standing up to say the truth.

"They accused me of forcing two Christian APC candidates on Mubi North and south. I am glad the meeting took place in Kwacham’s house and he is bold enough to stand up as a leader and say the truth. 

"I grew up seeing Kwaccham playing politics with my Uncle and Nigerias Ambassador to the Czech Republic Amb. Kevin Peter. Kwacham was instrumental in helping my family get the second tenure as Chairman Mubi North in 2018. Despite our little political differences, Kwacham has been a worthy family friend to us." He said 

Being their Son, he called on the people of Mubi North to support him.

"To my brothers and sister in SabonLayi, Kolere and Yelwa, I ask you to show me more love because I am your son. Follow up on my next post for the details. Thank you Hon. Kwaccham and God bless my son and number one supporter Ibraheem Kwaccam"

Yahaya Bello's Group Backs Tinubu/Shettima Ticket, Assures VP Of Support

Ahead of 2023 election, the leadership of a group loyal to the governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, on the platform of GYB Network 4 Asiwaju, has met the vice presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator Kashim Shettima, with assurance of full support.

During the meeting on Monday, the group's leadership led by its Kogi state coordinator, Alhaji Haddy Ametuo, briefed Senator Shettima on their activities and the plan to ensure victory of APC presidential ticket during the 2023 general elections. 

While Ametuo is the group's coordinator, the incumbent APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Murtala Yakubu Ajaka is the national coordinator for GYB Network for Asiwaju.

A statement released on Tuesday in Abuja by Alhaji Haddy Ametuo, pledged full alliance and support for the presidential candidate and his running mate ahead of the poll.

"Through the support of our principals Alhaji Yahaya Bello, we paid a solidarity visit to our Vice Presidential candidate Senator Kashim Shettima on Monday, to congratulate him on his selection and to assure him of our support for the project.

"We are particularly excited because Senator Kashim Shettima is young, brilliant, resourceful, energetic and a round peg in a round hole, who would add developmental values to Nigeria."

Ametuo said Kogi State APC under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello has been repositioned and strengthened beyond the reach of opposition political parties, hence the assurance of victory for Tinubu/Shettima ticket in the state.

"Being a grassroot organisation, we assured Senator Shettima that we will ensure massive mobilisation of real voters from all the nook and crannies of Kogi state to deliver the ticket 100 percent during the election."

The statement lauded the competence, capacity and track records of achievements of Kashim Shettima as former governor and Senator against other sentiments.

"Against all odds, we believe that Senator Shettima was selected based on the principles of integrity, inclusion and continued performances and relevance in the Nigerian politics," Ametuo said.

Responding, the statement said the vice presidential candidate, who was happy at the visit, thanked the leadership of GYB Network 4 Asiwaju for their commitment to the party and Tinubu/Shettima presidential project.

[19/7, 5:23 pm] Jacob Onjewu: Osun: Nabena Calls For Genuine Reconciliation Nationwide, Warns Against Arrogance In APC

*says era of taking people for granted is over

Immediate past Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon. Yekini Nabena, has said the party's defeat in the just concluded Osun State governorship election is a warning to the ruling party, saying "no one can cheat nature twice."

Nabena specifically called on the party's presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution the likes of governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state and others to stop their arrogance against other party leaders across the states and zones.

In a statement released Tuesday in Abuja, the APC chieftain condemned the recent visit of Governor Sanwo-Olu, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Governor Kayode Fayemi, all from the South-West to the Rivers state in the South-south "in search of political marriage with Governor Wike," without paying respect to the APC leaders in the zone.

According to Nabena, the era of taking people for granted arrogantly and think you will win election is far over, hence APC leaders across board must respect each other and forge a united front ahead of 2023 general elections.

He also called on party members in Osun state and the entire South-west zone not to be demoralised by the outcome of the election, saying all hope is not lost.

"Osun state governorship election has come and gone but we must learn a lesson. In 2018, the then National Chairman of APC, Adams Oshiomhole, and his National Working Committee (NWC) worked so hard to defeat nature in Osun, but in 2022, nature came back with full force to take its place. 

"It is a warning to the Lagos state governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and others that if care is not taken, the same hand of nature will tourch them. 

"Sanwo-Olu recently came to South-south with Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Governor Kayode Fayemi, that can not deliver Osun state, to woo Governor Nyesome Wike without consulting the zonal leaders of the APC. That's very disrespectful to our APC leaders from the Niger Delta where we have Rotimi Ameachi in Rivers state, Adams Oshiomhole from Edo state, Ovie Omo-Agege from Delta state, Chief Timipre Sylva from Bayelsa state, Ben Ayade from Cross Rivers state, who is even a governor's colleague and my humble self. Leader in the South-south APC must be respected in every state."

While demanding apology from the three governors, the former APC spokesman said Osun state governorship election has shown that "together we can win, with unity we can win, not by creating a subsidiary party like Social Democratic Party (SDP) across the country.

"So, this is a warning to the Lagos state governor Sanwo-Olu and his co-travellers that the APC South-south leaders are aware of their game plan in Rivers state but it will not work because on election day we will vote APC in all boxes; from President, National Assembly, Governor and State House of Assembly. This will also apply in other states across the country. The era of vote APC for President and vote PDP for Governor is over."

The APC chieftain, however called for genuine reconciliation across the country among all the APC leaders and stakeholders even as he identified states like Gombe, Kwara, Kogi, Kano and Ogun as case study for urgent attention.

"The only way out for the APC as a party is to respect leaders in every state and zone, and not just think you can arrogantly arrange your boys to install leaders anywhere like they tried to do in Bayelsa, Kogi and Rivers states by some paper weight governors from the west who solely rely on Asiwaju to win election.

"In party politics, everyone matters, you must carry everyone along. This is a warning to the APC presidential candidate to caution his men who are already thinking of installing leaders across the state with full assurance that their oga (Tinubu) will be the next President and they (the boys) will be in charge of party structures across the states, this must be addressed quickly. 

"They must also stop seeing all those who contested primary election with them as enemies. There must always be a winner in a contest, and that is why it is a democracy. So this arrogance of power can not do APC good because Lagos is not Nigeria, what they can do and go away with in Lagos state can not happen in entire Nigeria," Nabena warned.

Osun: Nabena Calls For Genuine Reconciliation Nationwide, Warns Against Arrogance In APC

*says era of taking people for granted is over

Immediate past Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon. Yekini Nabena, has said the party's defeat in the just concluded Osun State governorship election is a warning to the ruling party, saying "no one can cheat nature twice."

Nabena specifically called on the party's presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution the likes of governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state and others to stop their arrogance against other party leaders across the states and zones.

In a statement released Tuesday in Abuja, the APC chieftain condemned the recent visit of Governor Sanwo-Olu, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Governor Kayode Fayemi, all from the South-West to the Rivers state in the South-south "in search of political marriage with Governor Wike," without paying respect to the APC leaders in the zone.

According to Nabena, the era of taking people for granted arrogantly and think you will win election is far over, hence APC leaders across board must respect each other and forge a united front ahead of 2023 general elections.

He also called on party members in Osun state and the entire South-west zone not to be demoralised by the outcome of the election, saying all hope is not lost.

"Osun state governorship election has come and gone but we must learn a lesson. In 2018, the then National Chairman of APC, Adams Oshiomhole, and his National Working Committee (NWC) worked so hard to defeat nature in Osun, but in 2022, nature came back with full force to take its place. 

"It is a warning to the Lagos state governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and others that if care is not taken, the same hand of nature will tourch them. 

"Sanwo-Olu recently came to South-south with Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Governor Kayode Fayemi, that can not deliver Osun state, to woo Governor Nyesome Wike without consulting the zonal leaders of the APC. That's very disrespectful to our APC leaders from the Niger Delta where we have Rotimi Ameachi in Rivers state, Adams Oshiomhole from Edo state, Ovie Omo-Agege from Delta state, Chief Timipre Sylva from Bayelsa state, Ben Ayade from Cross Rivers state, who is even a governor's colleague and my humble self. Leader in the South-south APC must be respected in every state."

While demanding apology from the three governors, the former APC spokesman said Osun state governorship election has shown that "together we can win, with unity we can win, not by creating a subsidiary party like Social Democratic Party (SDP) across the country.

"So, this is a warning to the Lagos state governor Sanwo-Olu and his co-travellers that the APC South-south leaders are aware of their game plan in Rivers state but it will not work because on election day we will vote APC in all boxes; from President, National Assembly, Governor and State House of Assembly. This will also apply in other states across the country. The era of vote APC for President and vote PDP for Governor is over."

The APC chieftain, however called for genuine reconciliation across the country among all the APC leaders and stakeholders even as he identified states like Gombe, Kwara, Kogi, Kano and Ogun as case study for urgent attention.

"The only way out for the APC as a party is to respect leaders in every state and zone, and not just think you can arrogantly arrange your boys to install leaders anywhere like they tried to do in Bayelsa, Kogi and Rivers states by some paper weight governors from the west who solely rely on Asiwaju to win election.

"In party politics, everyone matters, you must carry everyone along. This is a warning to the APC presidential candidate to caution his men who are already thinking of installing leaders across the state with full assurance that their oga (Tinubu) will be the next President and they (the boys) will be in charge of party structures across the states, this must be addressed quickly. 

"They must also stop seeing all those who contested primary election with them as enemies. There must always be a winner in a contest, and that is why it is a democracy. So this arrogance of power can not do APC good because Lagos is not Nigeria, what they can do and go away with in Lagos state can not happen in entire Nigeria," Nabena warned.

Ebonyi 2023: Again, Indigenes Reject Umahi's Zoning Agenda, Caution Founding Fathers, Traditional Rulers

*insist on competence, capacity to govern Ebonyi

As preparations for the 2023 general elections intensify, an Ebonyi diaspora group, Association of Ebonyi Indigenes Socio-cultural in Diaspora (AEISCID) has admonished Ebonyi founding fathers never to allow themselves to be used as willing political tools by the Governor of the State, Engr. David Umahi.

Umahi had while addressing a gathering of founding fathers of the state and other elders at the weekend, insisted on the rotation of the governorship position in the state to the Northern part of the state. 

The governor reportedly said, "I expect you all to be vocal about equity, fairness, and justice for the peace of the state. What is just is for the North to start the second circle, after the North, the central, and then the South. 

"So, I charge you to begin to draw the charter of equity now. People will say that it is a charter of equity written in the heart, but we are alive, and I will support you to do justice to that. I have demonstrated equity, fairness, and justice to the task, leverage on that, and be vocal about it. I will not want the south or central to make the mistake that will hunt them tomorrow.”

But responding to the development through a statement on Monday in Abuja, AEISCID's president, Ambassador Paschal Oluchukwu, however, reiterated it's earlier position that Ebonyians should support and vote for eminently qualified, competent and capable individuals who have the proven capacity to turn around the fortunes Ebonyi State. 

The socio-cultural organisation said its major aim is to see a better democratically governed Ebonyi State that they in the diaspora can be proud of.

Oluchukwu said: "For us, Governor Umahi's equity call when he has already given a burial ground endorsement to the Speaker of the State's House of Assembly is rather anchored on selfishness, greed and in fact, his desperation to continue to control the affairs of our dear State from behind the scene.

"As a matter of fact, the endorsement of the Speaker and his running mate- another grossly incompetent, unknown 'female friend' of the Governor, should they eventually make it to the ballot should be seen very glaringly for what it is: A third term agenda by the Emperor Umahi dynasty! 

"We feel and rightly too, that the governor is only deeply angered by the overwhelming unpopularity of his choice candidate and is therefore looking for a means to sell and push his evil agenda through our elders and founding fathers some of who have been severely subjugated and are also not very well informed on the happenstances in the present misgovernance that Umahi has brought upon our dear State which has left key critical sectors like education, health care and even Agriculture in ruins.

"Otherwise, were they not the same founding fathers he, (Umahi) snubbed upon ascension to power in 2015- insisting he does not need their advice to govern Ebonyi? Why market his unsellable and unpopular gubernatorial candidate through the same elders and leaders now?

"Or is Nwifuru not the same stooge who as the head of the Legislative arm of government has been approving loans, memos and requests without any form of debate just to please the Governor whom he considers and calls his boss? That Ebonyi's debt profile has soared under the present human-less Umahi administration which mainly considers concrete-mixing as development is now audible to the deaf and visible to the blind.

"For all we know and has read in various media platforms about the said Nwifuru in the past seven years- his alleged disposition to political thuggery and violence,  including his poor academic credentials, we as global citizens will never admonish Ebonyi people to support and vote such a character into a position as exalted as the office of a Governor of Ebonyi State."

The statement cautioned the founding fathers, leaders, elders and traditional rulers of Ebonyi State to be wary of any political product Governor Umahi might be hiding behind  them to smuggle into power in 2023. 

"The youths and the younger generations won't forgive them if they avail themselves to be used by the outgoing governor who is now drowning and looking for any straw to hold on to. 

"Of course we are glad that Umahi did express a little bit of his frustration and anger over his lost APC Presidential bid. He even opened up that he is yet recovering from the pains of Presidential election defeat. It is therefore wisdom for them and indeed, all lovers of our dear State to distance from his counsel while allowing him lick his wounds.

"We encourage and challenge the Ebonyi electorates to make history by supporting and electing into office in 2023 elections not on emotional or zoning sentiments but on competence, capacity and credibility. Those who we would wish to see occupy elective offices in 2023 must be people with known antecedents and proven capacity to deliver good governance in Ebonyi State.

"Very good a thing that the tremendous improvements in the electoral system has made it uneasy for elections to be rigged or for brazen manipulations to take place. We encourage Ebonyians to leverage on this to elect competent and credible leaders with proven and verifiable credentials in 2023."

2023: Popular Kaduna Cleric Vows To Mobilize 1m Votes For Obi

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, a popular Christian cleric, Pastor David Ayuba Azzaman has assured that electorate in Kaduna State would be mobilized to gather no fewer than one million votes for Labour Party's candidate Peter Obi.

Pastor Azzaman expressed this in an interactive session with journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday at his church, The King Worship Chapel and Ministries Incorporated, Sabon Tasha.

"I would tell Nigerians today, let us vote Peter Obi. Peter Obi must get 1m votes in Kaduna, which we would mobilize for," he said.

Speaking further, he said that he is happy that  Obi's running mate, Datti Ahmed is a Muslim from Zaria and a credible candidate.

"Let Christians stand up, let reasonable Muslims stand up and deliver Peter Obi in 2023 to set NIgeria on the path of prosperity.

"A new NIgeria is coming, when our Naira will be at par with the dollar and we will be leading exporters and the land will prosper," he assured.

Pastor Azzaman who has  branches of his church in the  USA and other parts of Nigeria, said that God is going to bring resources to NIgeria to  play a leading role in the world affairs.

On affairs in Kaduna State, he called on citizens yet  to get their permanent voters cards (PVCs), to do so and ensure credible leaders that will promote their interests are promoted.