Niger Delta Youths Rejects Regional Zoning of National Assembly Principal Offices

By Kabir Yusuf 

The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has said that the principal offices of the National Assembly should not be subjected to regional zoning.

Comrade Israel Uwejeyan,the National Coordinator NDYC, in a statement, explained that “we advocate that the members of the National Assembly are mature and not children, hence they should be left to exercise their autonomy in selecting their own leaders.”

“We contend that the esteemed members of the National Assembly possess the necessary wisdom and maturity to make informed choices regarding leadership. They are well-equipped to identify capable leaders who can effectively address the challenges facing our nation. By granting them the independence to choose their leaders, we foster an environment that encourages independent thinking and political growth.”

“The practice of regional zoning imposes unnecessary limitations and perpetuates division within the National Assembly. It stifles the diversity of thought and restricts the assembly’s ability to elect leaders based on merit, competence, and vision. Removing regional barriers allows for a broader pool of qualified candidates and harnesses the wealth of talent that exists nationwide.”

“Our objective is to cultivate a merit-based leadership selection process that promotes national unity and fosters inclusivity. Leadership positions should be earned based on qualifications, experience, and proven track records, rather than being predetermined by regional considerations. Such a meritocratic approach strengthens our democratic institutions and nurtures a sense of unity.”

“In fact, the zoning of the Senate presidency may end up creating more problems than it solves. For one, it can result in a situation where the most qualified candidate is excluded simply because they do not come from the region or ethnic group that the position has been zoned to. This could lead to a leadership vacuum and contribute to the underdevelopment of the Senate and the country at large.”

“Moreover, zoning is a divisive concept that has the potential to stoke ethnic and regional tensions. It creates a sense of entitlement among certain groups who feel that they are entitled to certain positions, regardless of their qualifications or suitability for the job. This could lead to resentment and friction among different groups, and ultimately undermine national unity and cohesion.”

“The NDYC calls for the National Assembly to transcend parochial interests by abandoning the practice of regional zoning. By doing so, members can prioritize the greater good and work collectively towards the advancement of our nation. This shift will foster an environment of cooperation, enabling robust debate and the emergence of consensus-driven, well-rounded leadership.”

“In conclusion, the NDYC strongly advocates for the elimination of regional zoning for the principal office within the National Assembly. We firmly believe that the mature members of the assembly are capable of selecting their leaders based on merit, competence, and a commitment to national unity. Embracing an autonomous leadership selection process will pave the way for a more inclusive, progressive, and prosperous future for our great nation,” the youth group said.

2023 Presidential Elections: New Political Coalition Mobilises Nigerians to Defend Democracy

*The Minimum Is For The Judges To Do Right - Labour And Civil Society Front LCSF*

The Labour and Civil Society Front is committed to ensuring that the electoral process is protected and that at all times the primacy of the Peoples choice is preserved.

We stated in our debut outing on the 30th of April, 2023 that the Nigerian People are committed to seeing that the Judiciary rises to the urgency of now by passing judgement in the Presidential Election Petition that will truly present the Judiciary in glowing light.

In our Solidarity outing with organized Labour on the 1st of May, 2023 we were unanimous in the call on the Parties to the Petitions before the Presidential Elections Petition Tribunal to effectively pursue their call for Justice without let or hindrance, and we believe that democracy is endangered where wrong persons hijack the mandate of the people through electoral malfeasance and larceny.

We have in many ways supported and endorsed the protests, street marches, sit-in and sit-tights that have attended the largely flawed February 25, 2023 General Elections. We are calling on all lovers of democracy, well meaning Nigerians, supporters of the Rule of law, and believers in the noble demands of due process to join forces with us as we urge and nudge the Judiciary to do right.

The Presidential Elections Petition Tribunal which began sitting on the 8th of May, 2023 must not see our protests as an attempt to overawe it. Indeed our protests show that we have great faith in the Judiciary and that we believe that they will do right by ensuring that the true winner of the Presidential Election and no other is sworn in on the 29th of May, 2023, this can be done by expeditiously determining the preliminary prayers of the Petitioners. We urge and nudge the Judiciary to do right.

We, as a major Citizens' Movement with nationwide Structures, are in alliance with the Free Nigeria Movement (that has been on the Streets for upward of 30days), the UpNorth Ambassadors, the Save Nigeria Group (that has been at the vanguard of protests around the Tribunal venue since Monday), The NCFront-3rd Force Movement of Nigeria, the Coalition of Obidient Movements Worldwide (with relentless channels of protest, calling for the validation of the Peoples Mandate), the League of Nigerian Progressives, the resurgent NADECO challenge, and several other groups committed to the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

Our unalterable and unyielding resolve is to salvage our decomposing democracy and restore the fast fading faith in the electoral process.

Finally, we encourage Nigerians to continue, and sustain all ongoing peaceful protests and marches against the monumental electoral larceny of the 25th of February, 2023 until Justice is done. To the Esteemed Judges in whose hands our collective sanity, faith and fate as a nation lie, the minimum we crave is that you do right.

SIGNED.

For Conveners 

Olisa Agbakoba SAN

Comrade Shehu Sani

Amb. Nkoyo Toyo

Prof Udenta Udenta

Salisu Mohammed

Osagie Obayuwana

Che Olawale Okunniyi

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr. (Media Coordinator).

Group Reveals Reason Tinubu Visited Wike In Port Harcourt, Says 'It’s Beyond Commissioning'

A non-governmental organization, Center for Reform and Public Advocacy has revealed that the recent visit of the President-elect, Bola Tinubu on the invitation of the state governor, Nyesom Wike is beyond the commissioning as widely publicized.

The Public Relations Officer of the group Ifeanyi Okechukwu in a statement on Wednesday, stated that the decision to commission the Rivers State governor for undermining the PDP’s and Labour’s petitions is on account of the fact that Gov Wike is perceived as not minding to commit his last blood in ensuring that Atiku is not declared the real winner of the election for obvious reasons.

“Indeed, there is high expectation on Governor Wike to use the advantage of the fact that his wife and Rivers State First Lady, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Wike, in whose honour one of the buildings commissioned by Tinubu was named, to network the judiciary for the purpose of discounting the merit in the PDP’s and Labour’s petitions.

“The invitation of Tinubu by Governor Wike to come and commission judiciary building projects was to provide a ground for the Tinubu team to meet with Wike and seal the deal with him.

“In particular, they believe that Wike has what it takes to undermine the petition by the PDP and Atiku, which they’ve adjudged as the most potent.

“It is their considered position that for as long as Wike remains Atiku’s albatross, the Rivers State Governor is more fitted for the task of liquidating the petition by Atiku”. Okechukwu stated.

He added that there is palpable apprehension in the camp of the APC and Tinubu because of the potential merits in Atiku’s and Obi’s case.

National Daily Awards: Obasanjo Other top Nigerians Recognised For Services To Nation

The much anticipated prestigious National Daily Awards will hold on Friday May 12, 2023, at the Grand BallRoom of Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, with former President, Olusegun Obasanjo as Special Guest of Honour and keynote Speaker, under the chairmanship of Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi.

The National Daily Awards is a celebration of excellence in various sectors of the Nigerian economy and life. 

“We will be honoring outstanding achievers in public and private sectors, as well as presenting Lifetime Achievement Awards to exceptional individuals in business, politics, sports and entertainment”, reads a statement signed by Sylvester Ebhodaghe, Editor-in-Chief of National Daily Newspapers. 

The statement further said that the IGP Usman Alkali Baba, CFR, will receive the National Daily’s Man of the Year Award at the event, alongside other eminent professional individuals and organisations.

The statement reads: “Other award recipients include Prince Nduka Obaigbena CON of ARISE News/THISDAY Newspaper, to be conferred with African Media Entrepreneur Icon of the Decade Award; Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State, Governor of The Year; Governor Olusola Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Innovation and Infrastructure Governor of the Year; Engr. Ernest Ndukwe, Lifetime Achievement. 

“Leo Stan Eke, Development Icon of the Decade (ICT); Alhaji Aliko Dangote, African Business Personality of the Decade; Umaru Dambatta, Public Sector Personality of the Decade; Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, Hero of Human Rights Defence; Sen Ifeanyi Ubah, Lawmaker of the Year (Senate); Deputy Governor Kingsley Otuaro of Delta State, Outstanding Peace Builder of the Year; NYSC, Most Strategic Government Establishment of the Decade; LSSTF, Most Strategic Government Support Initiative of the Year (State); Allen Onyema, Hero’s Award; including 10 Outstanding NYSC Members, among others that have distinguished themselves in their trade in both the public and private sectors in Nigeria. The award would remain one of the memorable events of the year”.

Timi Frank To Tinubu: You Lack Capacity To Fight Corruption In Judiciary

*Says 80% of corrupt politicians will be beneficiaries of Asiwaju's presidency 

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Comrade Timi Frank, has faulted Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu's claim that he will make corruption unattractive, especially in the Judiciary.

Frank, who described such statement as a lie, noted that the former Lagos state governor do not possess the capacity and ability to fight corruption in the Judiciary. 

Tinubu, while speaking in Port Harcourt, during the inauguration of a Magistrate Courts Complex built by the Governor Nyesom Wike administration, reportedly promised to make corruption unattractive.

Responding in a statement released on Saturday in Abuja, Timi Frank said Tinubu's track record on corruption fights is abysmal.

According to Frank, It is an insult to the sensibility of majority of Nigerians, that Tinubu who has been linked to several corrupt practices, including the famous bullion van episode, will suddenly become the anti corruption czar. 

He said: "A man who's unable to answer questions on the activities of the Alpha Beta company and several other properties linked to him, obviously do not posses the prerequisites to fight corruption.

"It is however ironic that Tinubu, whose political career is peppered with allegations of corruption, would try to position himself as a champion of anti-corruption, only aimed at fooling the gullible.

"Of utmost importance is the caliber of persons currently hobnobbing around the president elect for one favor or another. These individuals who are busy outwitting one another, all in a bid to grab juicy government portfolios with statutory immunity, may all have a case or more to answer with the anti graft agencies.  These characters who are currently vying for leadership positions in all arms of government, including the Executive, Legislature, and the Judiciary will most likely be cleared for public service, thereby joepadizing the fight against corruption ab initio.

The Bayelsa born political activist believed that the incoming administration, if confirmed by the judiciary, will habour many politicians of questionable characters giving them a safe haven to operate.

"A closer look at these individuals reveals that they are made of high net worth personalities who may have previously been convicted of crimes, or currently facing investigations or prosecution by the EFCC and other sister anti graft agencies. 

"The jostle for the position of the Senate President by one of the leading contenders is a clear testimony to the fact. It is therefore pertinent to ascertain whether Tinubu's potential administration will be comprised by these glaring associations.

"Consequently, the statement credited to the former Lagos state governor in Port Harcourt is laughable, given that the facts prove otherwise as clearly evident by the current realities. 

"It's worthy to note that Tinubu, whose ruling party campaigned on an anti-corruption mantra will suddenly drive an anti-corruption fight when even the incumbent President, who has no known history of corruption is unable to tackle the menace, rather the corruption index has risen exponentially under this administration."

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, furthermore added that it will be difficult to take Tinubu's words on fighting corruption seriously. 

He said: "Evidence of corruption linked to his interests continues to surface, as even the recently concluded general elections were grossly compromised. Tinubu should note that he's yet to be sworn in and should focus his attention on the pending cases challenging the legitimacy of his victory at the polls rather than making any such promises on an illegality pending before the tribunal.

"Lastly as a nation seeking a change, we must demand accountability from our leaders, regardless of their party affiliation. We cannot afford to remain silent whilst corruption continues to plague our democracy. Those who seek to lead us, must henceforth  show by their actions that they are committed to a corrupt-free Nigeria."

S/Kaduna: Allegation against military over renewed criss false, malicious,baseless-SOKIPEP

 *Exonerates military commanders of any wrong doing

*Begs military high command to forgive Atyap Devt. Association over false accusations

*Appeals to FG to deploy more troops to trouble area

*Passes vote of confidence on OPSH, Commander 

A peace building group in Southern Kaduna has described allegation of complicity of the military in the renewed crisis in the area as not only false but also malicious and baseless.

The indigenous peace advocacy organisation insisted that contrary to the accusation by the leadership of Atyap Development Association,that the military had aided and abetted the renewed attacks in Southern Kaduna,the military has rather done excellently well in enthroning peace and harmony in the area. 

The Kaduna based peace advocacy group operating under the aegis of Southern Kaduna Peace Practitioners Network,SOKIPEP,in a statement on the security situation in Southern Kaduna,countered the claim of the president of Atyap Development Association,

Samuel Achi,that the military and in particular, the Commander of the military formation in charge of peace enforcement in Southern Kaduna,Brigadier General Timothy Opurum,were involved in the crisis.

SOKIPEP in the statement,signed by its National Coordinator, Rev. Dauda Fadia and the Director of Community Outreach, Dr Samuel Lekwot,absolved the military and the Commander of any wrong doing, insisting that they have carried out their assigned mandate professionally.

To this end,it passed a vote of confidence on Operation Safe Haven ,OPSH and the Commander, noting that contrary to the allegation,the renewed violence in the area was caused by cow poisoning and the killing of a herder by some criminal elements in some southern kaduna villages.

The group which said it has high regard for the Atyap Development Association and its leadership,however said it felt constrained to say the truth even as it may hurt their brothers and the leadership of the association.

"We feel constrained to release this statement stating the true state of security in Southern Kaduna, so as to set the records straight in the overall interest of peace and posterity,"the statement said 

Going further,the Southern Kaduna Peace Practitioners Network,said:"As a people who are predominantly Christians, the only thing that  can set us free is the truth no matter whose interest is hurt or affected."

"We wish to counter the blatant, malicious and day  light fabricated lies by our brother, Samuel Achi, the President of Atyap Development Association against the military and in particular the Commander of the military formation in charge of peace enforcement in Southern Kaduna,Brigadier General Timothy Opurum.

"We are disappointed in our brother, Mr Achi that he left the  true cause of the renewed conflict behind only to blame a man and his team who are doing everything possible to protect our people. The Commander and his team,no doubt, have put in all the available  strength and capabilities in emplacing peace in our area without any single iota of bias.

"We naturally wouldn’t have delved into the matter since the military itself is capable of defending themselves. However, we are conscience bound to rise in their defence and also speak the truth in the interest of patriotism and God's sake," the group added.

While noting that it condemns "in the strongest terms the senseless and inhuman attacks that have been going on in our communities by suspected criminal herders and their accomplices"SOKIPEP said the attacks are "reprehensible and must be condemned by all men of goodwill. "

SOKIPEP statement read further:"While not trying to justify the killing of human beings for any reason or have alibi for the killers,we must look at the criminal activities of some of our farmers and youths who have over time, deliberately ignited these attacks by poisoning cattle belonging to herders without any form of provocation or farm trespass, which should be ordinarily reported to the security agencies.

"We have noted that sometimes, these people 

even silently killed the cattle rearers when there is an encroachment. 

"Southern Kaduna has been peaceful for more than nine months due to the combine efforts of the military task force,Operation Safe Haven and other security agencies and the entire stakeholders in the Southern Kaduna peace building community, until recently when there was the poisoning of over 70 cows and the killing of a herder at Ugwan Mai Juju. 

"Poisoning of cows have become a daily trend in our local communities,even when there is a clear warning that our people shouldn’t take laws into their hands no matter the provocation. In spite of this we allow our youths carry out these criminal acts unchecked and when the security agencies come to arrest them, we hide and protect them. We must stop this forthwith.

"The attacks by suspected criminal herdsmen which led to the death of several people in some Southern Kaduna communities are highly condemnable and must stop henceforth. We the native associations must also be bold enough to tell our people in the local communities to avoid conduct that are likely to cause breach of peace no matter the provocation. 

"Our leaders must be bold enough to  rise up to the challenge of speaking truth to the youths to stop these criminal acts of cow poisoning and isolated killings of the herders while grazing. If there is any encroachment or infractions, they should quickly report to the security agencies."

The group said,"Instead of vilifying the Commander of Operation Safe Haven in Southern Kaduna for speaking the truth, we should strive to become genuine peace ambassadors."

SOKIPEP said the OPSH Commander ,Brig. General Timothy Opurum "spoke the whole truth on the security situation in the area and from all available records, the  Commander and his men have not done anything wrong "in any area in the protection of lives and properties in Southern Kaduna."

"He has lost several officers and men while trying to protect our people during some of these senseless attacks. It is therefore, an act of mere wickedness for our brothers in the Atyap Community Development Association to leave the substance which is outright  criminality to face an innocent man who is doing his work professionally," it said.

To this end, SOKIPEP said,"We therefore, call on the international communities and all Nigerians to ignore the blantant and baseless allegations against the Commander and the military outfit, Operation Safe Haven in Southern Kaduna."

Hon Betara An Efficient Administrator Deserves To Be Next Speaker - Arewa Youth Forum

The Arewa Youth Forum (AYF), the Premier umbrella platform of all youth organisations in  the North and FCT-Abuja, which has structures in the 19 Northern states, some Southern States and the diaspora has made a strong case for Honourable Aliyu Mukhtar Betara, ‘The  Golden Boy’ to be voted as the Speaker of the 10th National Assembly.

This was contained in a statement signed by AYF President, Ahmed Mohammed Zagi, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday April 4, 2023, explaining why Honourable Betara who is representing  Biu/Bayo/Shani Federal Constituency and Chairman House  Committee on Appropriation was endorsed.

"The role in which Hon. Betara played in the 9th Assembly is that of a proficient and efficient administrator who was fair, just, 

logical and sincere in the appropriation of resources for the improvement of the living 

standard of Nigerians and the development of critical sectors of the economy.

"Despite obvious challenges, Hon. Betera was able to pass through the hard concrete wall with his 

name printed in crystal gold," AYF said.

The group said that they have been closely following with keen interest 

the unfolding developments in the   country, especially as relates to the buildup to the  election of the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, especially the Green Chamber. 

They explained further that the  pivotal role that Honourable Betara  played has earned him deep love, trust, respect and confidence from his colleagues in the Green Chamber. 

"No doubt, and from our conclusion, that is why his ambition to become the next Speaker of the House of Representatives is receiving  overwhelming support and endorsement from both returning and new members of the 

parliament across political party bifurcation.

"As a person, Hon. Betara iswell known to be a humble, intelligent, and smart persona with the wisdom of the ancients," the statement said. 

According to them, "He  is friendly, generous, easy going and accessible and always ensures fairness, transparency and logic in the discharge of his official 

responsibility as Appropriation Committee Chairman.In short, most members of the 9th 

Assembly have openly confessed on several occasions that Hon. Betara is the reason behind their success and sterling performance in their various constituencies as regards  appropriation of fund (envelope) for the execution of projects in the various Committees 

they represent.

"Already a veteran in both chambers of the NASS, Hon. Betara has been in the House since 2007," the statement explained. 

AYF recalls that Betara has held several strategic positions such as Chairman of the Sub committee on NDIC, Banking and Currency, Member of the House Committee on Interior  and was later appointed Chairman of the Sub-committee on Customs, Immigration and  Prisons Pension Office between 2007 and 2011. 

"He also served as Chairman of, the  House Committee on the Army in the 7th Assembly (2011 to 2015) and Chairman of the House Committee on Defence from 2015 –2019 before his current position as Chairman of, the House Committee on Appropriations (2019-2023).

"Hon. Betara has built bridges and the cultivated seed of friendship over time in the National Assembly across party, religious and ethnic lines.

 "He has gathered ample legislative experience over the years and equally established a reputation for  methodological versatility in the House of Representatives, which has baked and  prepared him for the onerous obligation of the Speakership Position that he is contesting  for," they argued.

According to the statement, Betara's  administrative acumen, competence, credibility, and legislative experience combined 

with his acceptability by the majority of the returning and newly elected members of the House of Representatives stands him out among other contestants and positioned him as the man to win the Speakership Position of the 10th Assembly once the election is 

held.

They averred that the  incoming administration of Asiwaju/Shettima does not need to be reminded that the hope of Nigerians is extremely high and they are expecting nothing short of excellent performance from the government. 

"The executive arm of government, on the other hand,  cannot function effectively without the complement and support of robust and sound 

legislation and oversights from the legislature. 

"Therefore, the cadre or calibre of “who”  becomes “who” in the Leadership of the 10th Assembly should neither be taken for 

granted nor seem as business as usual where competence and credibility are often sacrificed on the alter of zoning, religious or ethnic equation.

"The executive, judiciary and legislative arms of government are partners in the business  of governance standing on a tripod. If any leg of the tripod becomes faulty through the wrong recruitment of its leadership, there will certainly be an overbearing effect and consequence on the other legs of the tripod.

"Consequent to the above, which is a tip of the iceberg on the many reasons why Hon. Betera is the man fit for the job, the AYF hereby, endorses the ‘Golden Boy’ to lead the Green Chamber as Speaker in the 10th National Assembly," they submitted. 

They further argued that, "no leader among all of those  aspiring has his selflessness, integrity, fear of God as a motivating principle and a 

consciousness, resolute and uncompromising drive to face the battle and national challenges with all his might and prowess. 

"This resolution of endorsement was made by all structures of AYF in Nigeria and the Diaspora.

We therefore call on all and sundry especially, old and new members of the Green Chamber to support the aspiration and candidature of Hon. Aliyu Mukhtar Betara as Speaker so that Nigeria "go better for the Nigerian Citizens "through qualitative and sound legislation," they stressed.

They said their endorsement is hinged on their patriotic zeal for Nigeria.

"As an organisation that champions the course of good governance through qualitative  representations we are compelled to voice out our resolutions on who to drum our support  for and endorsement to serve as Speaker in the 10th National Assembly, which is  expected to be officially inaugurated in June.

"Following our deep and wider consultations as well as sampling of vital opinions that cut  across the length and breadth of the country, also among members of the Green Chamber  on who does the cap fit for the Speakership position, we have come to the conclusion  that one personality stands out among all that person is Hon. Aliyu Mukhtar Betara, ‘The  Golden Boy’; 

"The experienced legislator who is tailor-made for the job. Our reasons  abound!

"From the constituency front, it is a well-known fact that Hon. Betara has exceeded expectations in his constituency in terms of infrastructural development (constituency  projects execution), empowerment and effective representation. 

"No surprise he was given 

the mandate by his people for an unprecedented fifth term to represent the constituency. 

"Top experts and students of business management or financial management can speak 

correctly on the importance of having a prudent and proficient “administrator” or “manager” of human/resources in an organisation".