Politics, World News

Oyo Chief Judge Constitutes 7-man Panel To Investigate Deputy Governor, Olaniyan

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Oyo State Chief Justice, Munta Abimbola, on Thursday constituted a seven-man panel to investigate the allegations levelled against the deputy governor of the state, Rauf Olaniyan, by the House of Assembly.

The House of Assembly has been pushing to impeach Olaniyan, a move that was intensified after the deputy governor defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

The state governor, Seyi Makinde and the majority of the state lawmakers are in the PDP.

Olaniyan’s camp had alleged that Makinde sidelined and relegated him to the background of his government before his defection.  

However, the panel was formed pursuant to the resolution of the House of Assembly, and as requested by its Speaker, Adebo Ogundoyin.

Ogundoyin made the request in a letter dated July 6, 2022.

The Speaker in the letter requested the constitution of the panel by virtue of the power conferred on the State Chief Judge by section 188 (5) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The members of the panel comprise Chief Kayode Christopher (Chairman); Adebisi Soyombo; Chief Lawal Adekunle Dauda; Princess Olanike Olusegun; Rev Fr. Patrick Ademola; Chief Mrs Wuraola Adepoju (JP); and Alh. Tirimisiyu Akewusola Badmus.

Justice Abimbola urged the panel members to be fair in their investigation of the allegations against the deputy governor.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that the State High Court sitting in Ibadan stopped state lawmakers from going ahead with the impeachment of Olaniyan.

The court presided over by Justice Oladiran Akintola gave the order when the case filed by the deputy governor came up for hearing.

This was to allow the Assembly to respond to issues raised by the deputy governor.

Politics, World News

Labour Party Reacts As PDP Asks Court To Disqualify Tinubu, Peter Obi’s Running Mates

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The Labour Party has said that it is responding to a suit filed by the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking disqualification of the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi and his counterpart in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu.

The Labour Party’s lawyer, Alex Ejesieme, said this while confirming receipt of the suit process.

The PDP filed a lawsuit before the Federal High Court, Abuja against Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqualify Obi and Tinubu from participating in the 2023 general elections, along with their new running mates, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed and Senator Kashim Shettima respectively.

According to the suit with file number FHC/ABJ/CS/1016/2022, the PDP prayed the court to issue an order restraining the INEC from replacing the running mates of Obi and Tinubu.

The opposition party insisted that the respondents can only participate in the election with Doyin Okupe and Kabiru Masari, whom the Labour Party and APC respectively first presented to the commission.

The PDP listed INEC, APC, Tinubu, Masari, Labour Party, Obi and Okupe as the first to seventh respondents in the case.

The main opposition party asked the court to determine if, by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the constitution, Section 29(1), 31 and 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s timetable, the Labour Party and APC’s presidential candidates are bound by the submission of Okupe and Masari, respectively as their running mates.

The party further asked the court to determine if “by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sections 29(1), 31, 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, the first defendant (the Independent National Electoral Commission – INEC) can validly accept any change or substitution of the 4th (Masari) and 7th (Okupe) defendants as running mates of the 3rd (APC) and 6th (Labour Party) defendants.”

Politics, World News

I’m Leaving Behind Legacy Of Fighting Corruption In Nigeria, Buhari Says Amid Widespread Graft, Lawlessness

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President Muhammadu Buhari says he is leaving behind a legacy of fighting corruption in the country, stressing the need to fight graft for the benefit of present and future generations.

Buhari disclosed this on Thursday while speaking as the special guest of honour as Nigeria marked the 6th African Union Day of Anti-Corruption with a national dialogue on this year’s theme: “Strategies and Mechanisms for the Transparent Management of COVID-19 funds”.

He highlighted the fights that Nigeria has fought against corruption since 2015 and lauded the country’s anti-corruption laws and agencies.

The Nigerian President also urged African leaders to intensify the fight against corruption and create more disincentives for the stealing of public funds.

“Distinguished participants and fellow African leaders, corruption is evil and all efforts at tackling it are desirable. I have monitored the fight against corruption in Africa and I can see both successes and drawbacks.

“The battle must continue for the sake of the continent and its people no matter the difficulties.

“In Nigeria, the fight against corruption has been vigorous since 2015. A lot has been achieved in the areas of arrest, prosecution, conviction, asset recovery and anti-corruption laws.

“I must admit that the fight has not been a bed of roses. Truly, a lot of more work in many fronts is required.

“For example, civil and public servants must be ethical and professional at all times. The private sector must contribute in curbing corruption. The international community needs to close safe havens.

“The judiciary requires more impetus. Perhaps, an International Anti-corruption Criminal Court is needed,” a statement by Garba Shehu, the presidential spokesman quoted Buhari as saying.

Despite having gained power on the back of the promise to fight corruption, which is largely responsible for Nigeria’s rarely improving development crises, Buhari’s government has failed to combat the ills in the public service.

In 2021, a London-based news magazine, The Economist, described the Nigerian President as inept and high-handed, adding that he had also failed to tackle corruption.

The 178-year-old magazine said due to Buhari’s mismanagement of the economy, food prices had soared while life had become more difficult for Nigerians.

The editorial had read in part, “Economic troubles are compounded by a government that is inept and heavy-handed. Mr Buhari, who was elected in 2015, turned an oil shock into a recession by propping up the naira and barring many imports in the hope this would spur domestic production.

“Instead he sent annual food inflation soaring above 20 per cent. He has failed to curb corruption, which breeds resentment. Many Nigerians are furious that they see so little benefit from the country’s billions of petrodollars, much of which their rulers have squandered or stolen.”

The Economist stated that even before COVID-19 in 2020, Nigeria was already witnessing unprecedented poverty.

The United States also described the scale of corruption in Nigeria under Buhari’s administration as “massive” and “widespread”

According to the 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices released by the US Department of State titled ‘Corruption and Lack of Transparency in Government’, the US said, “Although the law provides criminal penalties for conviction of official corruption, the government did not consistently implement the law, and government employees frequently engaged in corrupt practices with impunity. 

“Massive, widespread, and pervasive corruption affected all levels of government, including the judiciary and security services. 

“The constitution provides immunity from civil and criminal prosecution for the president, vice president, governors, and deputy governors while in office. There were numerous allegations of government corruption during the year.”

Politics, World News

Brigade of Guards Tightens Security in Abuja Over Terror Fears

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In anticipation of potential terror attacks in Nigeria’s capital Abuja, Nigeria’s Brigade of Guards, responsible for the security of the president, his family and the Federal Capital Territory(FCT), has stationed troops at the captital’s entry and exit points.

To this end, soldiers have intensified stop and search operations with increased checkpoints in view of the development.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari, Thursday, said the armed forces response to insecurity in the country was commendable and therefore, pledged the readiness of his administration to provide additional logistics and support to the military towards eliminating terrorism and insurgency in the country.

However, in Abuja, civil servants and other residents had a tough time getting to their offices as the security checks snarled traffic, keeping motorists stranded in traffic for hours.

The traffic gridlock was noticed in Nyanya-Karu Road, Lugbe-Abuja City Gate axis and Gwagwalada-Zuba area.

The tightened security, THISDAY gathered, might not be unconnected to a security alert issued last week by the FCT command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), that the insurgents were planning to attack schools, churches and public infrastructure in the territory.

The situation has forced schools and churches to review their security arrangements.

“We spent more than two hours in the traffic before getting to work,” a resident said.

The new security measures came as the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said naval troops on anti-bunkering operations in the Niger Delta region destroyed 109 illegal refining sites and arrested 24 oil bunkerers in the last two weeks.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, the Director, Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Maj Gen Bernard Onyeuko, said soldiers recovered over N2.7 billion stolen crude comprising over four million litres of crude oil, two million litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)and 30,000 litres of DPK.

He said troops of Operation Delta Safe, also discovered and destroyed 34 wooden boats, 150 storage tanks, 119 ovens, 104 dugout pits, 27 pumping machines, one weapon, one speed boat, 13 vehicles and seven outboard engines.

Onyeuko said the soldiers achieved the feat while on operation Octopus Grip conducted in creeks, towns and communities in Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers States.

The DMO spokesman, while giving an update on military operations conducted between June 30 to July 14, also said 3,858 Boko Haram fighters and their families surrendered to troops fighting the counter-insurgency war.

Those who surrendered included 505 males, 1,042 females and 2,311 children, as well as six commanders of the terrorists, amongst them, Mallam Mala Hassan, Ali Madagali, Musa Bashir, Buba Dahiru, Jafar Hamma and Abbali Nakib Polisawa.

Within the period under review, Onyeuko said soldiers killed several terrorists and arrested some logistics suppliers/collaborators with various items at various logistics towns within the theatre.

Buhari: Armed Forces Response to Insecurity Commendable, Pledges More Support

President Muhammadu Buhari, who pledged the readiness of his administration to provide additional logistics and support to the military towards eliminating terrorism and insurgency in the country, has also described the armed forces response to insecurity as commendable.

He further disclosed that the nation, in the last 12 years, had experienced more security challenges but was quick to hail the operational capability of Nigerian military.

Speaking Thursday at the graduation ceremony of 247 students of the Senior Course 44 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, the president promised that his government would continue to provide the needed support required to wipe out terrorists and insurgents off the face of the earth.

According to him, “This government will continue to provide the required guidance and support to ensure that the desired results are achieved. The Armed Forces of Nigeria are working tirelessly to enhance their combat effectiveness, operational capability and training necessary to eliminate the threats, in synergy with other institutions and nations.

“The response of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to the Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, militancy, kidnapping as well as the activities of separatists and armed militias amongst others have been commendable.

“We have witnessed recent terrorist attacks in Nigeria bearing the hallmark of national and trans-border insurgents trying to cause havoc in Nigeria as well as in neighbouring countries.

“It will be part of your duty to confront these terrorists and insurgents and wipe them off the face of the earth and bring peace to our countries,” the president told the graduating students.

He described the specifics of their training, which focused primarily on countering security threats as very important, adding that, “combating these prevalent security threats effectively demands that African countries continue to work together at all levels; be it tactical, operational and strategic.”

Appraising the ongoing collaboration of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger Republic, Benin Republic and Chad in a multinational operation to combat the Boko Haram Insurgency in the Lake Chad region, the president said it has been productive, commendable and successful.

“The synergy achieved in operating together must have been enhanced by an understanding of the doctrines of the cooperating forces. This occasion provides me another opportunity to briefly reflect on the state of the Nigerian nation, particularly, regarding national security. The last 12 years have been very challenging for our nation, considering the different security threats that have besieged the country.

“Our government is poised to promote national security and development, as well as to remain committed to promoting a vision of a secure, safe, just, peaceful, prosperous and strong Nigeria. We shall be employing all elements of our national power in ensuring security, a just society, peaceful coexistence, national unity and sustainable development while promoting our good standing internationally.”

President Buhari expressed delight that amongst the graduating students were international officers from sister African countries, saying he was confident they enjoyed the friendliness of the country during their stay.

Army Assures Corps Members of Safety in Katsina
The Nigerian Army has assured the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed to Katsina State of adequate security throughout their service year in the state.
The commander 17 brigade, Nigerian Army, Katsina, Brigadier General Ibikunle Ajose, gave the assurance during an interactive session with the state NYSC Coordinator, Aisha Muhammed, in her office.

He added that the military was determined to provide adequate security for NYSC members serving across the 34 local government areas of state

The Army general expressed readiness to render necessary assistance to the corps members and the state NYSC management whenever the need arose in order to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

Ajose equally promised to sponsor sporting activities and competitions among corps members in the camp for harmonious coexistence to thrive.
Responding, Muhammed thanked the Nigerian Army for vowing to secure the lives and property of Corps members in the state.

She added that the NYSC management and the Nigerian Army would work assiduously to safeguard corps members, promising to report any suspicious person or movement to security agencies in the state for prompt intervention.

Politics

Taraba PDP urges calm over court cases

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The Peoples Democratic Party in Taraba State, on Friday, said there was no cause for alarm following court cases instituted by some aggrieved governorship aspirants challenging the emergence of Lt. Col. Agbu Kefas as the party’s governorship candidate in the state.

In a statement issued in Jalingo and signed by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Andeta’rang Irammae, the PDP assured supporters and the public that the ongoing court cases against the governorship primary election, which, it said, was adjudged as free, fair and transparent, would soon be resolved.

The statement read partly, “We are a truly democratic party and we are applying political and democratic means to address the grievances of some aspirants who have dragged the party and our governorship candidate, Lt. Col. Agbu Kefas, to court.

“The aggrieved aspirants are our members and the PDP is one big family whose umbrella is capable of accommodating all. Our internal conflict resolution mechanism is stronger and more efficient than any other political party in the country.

“The PDP members, supporters and the public are hereby enjoined to remain calm as the National Secretariat of our great party and our tate chapter are on top of the issues at hand and very soon we will resolve our internal family issues.

“Our primary concern is to win all elective positions in the 2023 elections and we would not leave anything to chance on our road to achieving this goal.”

This is as the party called on the PDP loyalists, supporters and the public to use the window provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission to register and ensure they collect their Permanent Voter Cards to vote for the PDP at the state and national levels to return the country to the path of growth and prosperity.

The statement added that the country could not afford to survive another four years of misrule, bad governance and visionless leadership which the APC had provided at the national level in the past seven and a half years.

Our correspondent reports that Prof. Jerome Nyameh and Hon. Bubajoda Mafindi have separately approached the Federal High Court in Jalingo challenging the emergence of Agbu Kefas as the party’s governorship candidate, alleging that he (Agbu Kefas) did not purchase the nomination form to contest the party’s governorship primary election.

Politics, World News

Court orders immediate review of judges, others’ salaries

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A National Industrial Court, Abuja on Friday ordered the Federal Government to put machinery in place for the immediate review of the salaries and allowances of the judicial officers in Nigeria.

Justice Osatohanmwen Obaseki-Osaghae who issued the order held that the current salaries and allowances of judicial officers in the country are not only abysmally low but embarrassing.

Justice Obaseki-Osaghae gave the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed against the Federal Government by Chief Sebastine Hon (SAN).

He ordered the Federal Government to commence a monthly payment of N10 million to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, N9 million to other Justices of the Supreme Court, N9 million to President of Court of Appeal.

Also, other Justices of the Appellate Court would get N8 million; Chief Judges of both Federal and States High Courts (N8 million), while Judges of the Federal and States High Courts would receive N7 million.

The Judge held that the refusal of the government to review the judicial officers’ salaries and allowances for 14 years was unconstitutional, unlawful and should be compelled to do the needful.

Justice Obaseki-Osaghae lamented that it was unfortunate that justices and judges who are ministers in the temple of justice have become victims of injustice in the country.

Politics

PDP sues INEC, APC, seeks Obi, Tinubu’s disqualification

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The Peoples Democratic Party has instituted a lawsuit compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission to prevent All Progressives Congress Presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu; and Labour Party standard bearer, Peter Obi, from replacing their running mates with Senator Kashim Shettima and Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed respectively.

The PDP is also asking the court to declare that Tinubu and Obi be disqualified unless they contest alongside their previous running mates – Kabiru Masari and Doyin Okupe respectively.

In the originating summons with suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1016/2022, the PDP is seeking an order barring the Independent National Electoral Commission from replacing the running mates of Tinubu and Obi.

Those listed as first to seventh respondents in the case are INEC, APC, Tinubu, Masari, Labour Party, Obi and Okupe.

Recall that Tinubu had nominated Masari as a surrogate running mate or placeholder in order to beat the June 17 INEC deadline. Obi had also nominated his campaign manager, Okupe, as an interim running mate. However, INEC gave a grace period of about one month to substitute their names.

After weeks of consultations, Tinubu and Obi nominated Shettima and Baba-Ahmed respectively while Masari and Okupe resigned.

However, the PDP asked the court to determine if by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the constitution, Section 29(1), 31 and 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s timetable, Tinubu and Obi are bound by the submission of Masari and Okupe respectively as their running mates.

The party also asked the court to determine if “by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sections 29(1), 31, 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, the first defendant (INEC) can validly accept any change or substitution of the 4th (Masari) and 7th (Okupe) defendants as running mates of the 3rd (APC) and 6th (Labour Party) defendants.”

The PDP is also seeking five reliefs including a declaration that by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the constitution, Section 29(1), 31 and 33 of the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC’s timetable, both Tinubu and Obi must be bound by their submission.

The party asked the court to rule that both Tinubu and Obi will be disqualified the moment they substitute the names of their running mates.

One of the reliefs reads, “A declaration that by the combined interpretation of Section 142(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Sections 29(1), 31, 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, the 1st defendant’s (INEC’s) election timetable, the 3rd (Tinubu) and 6th (Obi) cannot validly contest  the 2023 Presidential election without the 4th (Masari) and 7th (Obi) respondents as their respective running mates.”

The PDP also based its argument on the fact that the term ‘placeholder’ is unknown to Nigerian law.

“The Electoral Act makes no provisions whatsoever for placeholder or temporary running mates. The acts of the 2nd (APC), 3rd (Tinubu), 5th (Labour Party ) and 6th (Obi) defendants in nominating and forwarding the names of the 4th (Masari) and 7th (Okupe) defendants as running mates for the 2023 Presidential elections is valid and subsisting,” the party added.

In a supporting affidavit sworn to by Evelyn Oroh, a litigation secretary in the law firm of Gordy Uche (SAN), it was stated that some of the defendants had stated openly that they were mere placeholders.

“I know that the 3rd (Tinubu) and 6th (Obi) defendants have stated in media interviews and publications that the 4th (Masari) and 7th (Okupe) defendants are not their real running mates but merely holding the place as placeholders for the real running mates,” it stated.

When contacted on the telephone, the Labour Party’s lawyer, Alex Ejesieme, said he had received the court processes.

“I have received the processes and we are filing a response already,” he simply stated.

We’re aware of the suit – Tinubu’s legal team

The Head, Legal Directorate, Tinubu Campaign Organisation, Babatunde Ogala (SAN), said he was aware of the suit when contacted by one of our correspondents on Thursday.

Ogala, a former Legal Adviser of the APC, however, said Tinubu’s legal team had not been served a notice by the court. “Yes, I’m aware (of the matter). But they have not served us.” When asked to confirm the service, he restated, “They have not.”

Earlier, INEC National Commissioner, Festus Okoye, had in an interview with Arise TV, described the issue of placeholder as a unique invention that had no place in the constitutional and legal framework of the country.

He had said,  “Political parties’ candidates have submitted names of associates to run with them, and that is the position of the law as of today and nothing has changed.

“For there to be a substitution of a candidate, the vice-presidential candidate must write to the INEC, with an affidavit stating that he is withdrawing from the race within the time frame provided by the law, as that is the only way there can be a substitution of candidates.”

Also, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Prof Abdulganniy Raji, had said, “Being a part of the umpire, I will not say I see danger or I didn’t see danger (in party submitting place holders instead of running mate).

“I will rather abide by the constitutional provisions, the extant laws. The Electoral Act makes provisions for the procedure of how to nominate and there are also provisions for the substitution of the names, either in case of death or withdrawal by any candidate, whether the substantive candidate or the running mate.”

Senior lawyers, in separate interviews with The PUNCH on June 20 had said the only risk involved in the place holding arrangement would be the refusal of the running mate to step down.

A senior advocate, Adegoke Rasheed, said a placeholder could only be withdrawn if he died or voluntarily withdrew as neither INEC nor the court could make him relinquish the position.

Another SAN, Rotimi Jacobs, said political parties had taken advantage of the silence of the Electoral Act on the issue.

He said, “The political parties are just taking advantage of the provision of the Electoral Act: Section 33 permits the candidates to withdraw or an account of death or may be substituted. The political party will conduct another primary election. Or if he voluntarily withdraws, the political party that is affected must within 14 days conduct fresh primary elections to produce another candidate.”

Politics

APC postpones official unveiling of Shettima as Tinubu’s running mate

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has postponed the official unveiling of former Borno State Governor, Kashim Shetima, as the running mate to its presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu.

Shetima was scheduled to have been presented to party members at the APC national Secretariat on Thursday.

However, the Chairman of the APC Press Corp has informed reporters the event has been moved forward.

He said a new date will be announced in due time and that the date would probably be sometime next week.

The Press Corp chairman said the directive for the postponement was given by the party’s Deputy National Secretary.

No reason has been given for the decision which comes amid controversy over the choice of a Muslim-Muslim ticket by the party.

Politics

We won’t support Muslim-Muslim ticket – Northern APC group

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A coalition of Christians of Northern Extraction in the All Progressive Congress has warned that the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket of the party for the 2023 general election will have serious and grave consequences.

The organisation, which comprised Christian politicians in the 19 northern states within the APC, said they would not go against their conscience and faith, and go to their various constituencies to campaign for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

The organisation made its position known in a communique issued on Tuesday in Abuja after its meeting, which discussed the issues of the APC Muslim-Muslim ticket and the implications to the nation, signed by its Chairman, Prof. Doknan Sheni, and Secretary-General, Ishaya Bauka.
The presidential candidate of the party, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, had on Sunday announced Kashim Shettima as his running mate.

While describing the development as unacceptable, the coalition said Nigeria remained a multi-religious and constitutional democracy and not a theocracy, adding that the current political atmosphere of the nation was different from what occurred in 1993.

The communique read, “The selection of a Muslim vice presidential candidate portrayed insensitivity to the Christians in the nation.

“The fear of the Christians in the North and the nation, in general, is that the APC will be viewed as an Islamic party and the Muslim -Muslim ticket was not possible in 2015, why should it be possible in 2023?

“More so, that we are apprehensive that the person picked might have had a hand in the Chibok girls Saga and other terror activities, Muslim-Muslim ticket would undermine the election chances of Christian candidates in the APC in the various states in the North. The Christians in the North and the whole nation are highly aggravated.

“Considering that the Chairman of the party is a Muslim, Deputy Chairman – North, is a Muslim, the President of the Senate is a Muslim, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are Muslims, and now both the presidential and vice-presidential candidates are Muslims and apart from this violating the constitution, section 14 subsection 3, if this was to be reversed that all these were Christians, can any Muslim in the North be able to sell the APC presidential ticket to any Muslim ummah?”

They warned of serious and grave consequences if the selection of a Muslim vice-presidential candidate was not changed, maintaining that “at this moment of national peril, what should be paramount in Nigeria is unity and not infrastructure or economy.”

“For without unity, we cannot build. Any party or candidate that elevates the greed of a few above the needs of the many has no business running the affairs of Nigeria,” the coalition said.

Politics

What Peter Obi won’t do to Nigeria if elected president – Northern elders

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The Northern Elders Forum, NEF, has assured Nigerians that the Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Peter Obi won’t divide the country if elected.

Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the spokesman of NEF, also noted that Nigeria will not be divided if Obi fails in the 2023 presidential election.

He pointed out that no presidential candidate would divide the country if elected in 2023.

Baba-Ahmed was reacting to a Twitter user who said he was scared the LP presidential candidate will divide the country if elected president.

The Twitter user @AnthonyAnya33, wrote: “I understand why you’re scared… he will divide the country but ask yourself what if he fails to win do you think the country will remain one?”

Reacting, Baba-Ahmed wrote: “I am afraid you are wrong on both counts. Not Obi, no candidate will divide the country when he becomes President, unless he deliberately chooses to govern in a manner that infinitely dwarfs the current administration’s record.

“The country will not divide if Obi does not win either.”

Politics

Osun Guber Poll: Police deploy 21,000 personnel

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The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba has revealed that 21,000 police personnel would be deployed to the Osun State for the gubernatorial election slated for this weekend.

He stated that the Police personnel would take charge of security and protect electoral materials.

The IGP disclosed this during the INEC stakeholder’s meeting held in Osogbo.

The deployment of the police he maintained will also serve as a strong warning that the government was ready to make democracy work and assured the residents of the state that government will provide a conducive electoral environment for a peaceful election.

He warned trouble makers that irrespective of their status they would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

“Nobody will be allowed to derail the electoral process and no stone will be left unturned in prosecuting those who would be found wanting,” Baba warned.

Politics

President Muhammadu has woefully failed Nigerians – Catholic priests

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Some Catholic Priests in Edo State have said President Muhammadu Buhari’s leadership failed woefully in its primary duty of protecting the lives and properties of Nigerians.

The Priests said President Buhari ought to proffer solutions to the increasing rate of killings and kidnappings in parts of the country or step down from being the President.

The priests made the assertion at the weekend when the acting Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu led other government functionaries to pay last respects to a Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, who was murdered by suspected kidnappers.

The deceased Catholic priest was murdered by his abductors in Ikabigbo, Etsako West LGA of Edo State.

Very Rev. Fr. Johnbosco Ezehi, National President of the Nigeria Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), at the funeral mass and interment held for the priest at the Priests’ Cemetery, Immaculate Conception Seminary, Ivianokpodi-Agenebode in Etsako East LGA, appealed to President Buhari to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and security of Nigerians.

He said, “We condemn the increasing attacks by suspected herdsmen, who have turned the country into a massive graveyard. If the president cannot keep our country safe, then he automatically loses the trust of the citizens. He should no longer continue to preside over the killing field and mass graveyard that our country has become.”

The Priests called on the president to take drastic and urgent steps to reverse the ugly tragedy, which he said is threatening the peace and foundation of the collective existence and unity of the nation.

He said it is clear to the nation that the president has failed in his primary duty of protecting the lives of Nigerians.

Politics

Kuje prison break: Buhari reluctant to hold his appointees responsible – Arewa youths

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The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) on Monday said that President Muhammadu Buhari is reluctant to hold his appointees responsible for the recent Kuje Prison attack by suspected Boko Haram members.

The ACF, in a statement by its Secretary-General, Murtala Aliyu, wants Buhari to rise up to the occasion and ensure that his appointees are held responsible for any deterioration of the security situation under their watch.

DAILY POST reports that scores of terrorists suspected to be Boko Haram members had last week attacked Kuje prison with explosives and other weapons and freed all their members and other criminal elements.

The incident has continued to create reactions from stakeholders who expressed shock at the level of the security crisis in Nigeria.

“We noted that the response of President Muhammadu Buhari to the Kuje Prison tragedy, in particular, was to offer the familiar cocktail of platitudes of sermons, condemnations and yet more sermons,” ACF’s statement partly read.

“In other countries, the Kuje jail attack and similar ones that have happened in parts of Nigeria would’ve led to massive reshuffle, resignations and possibly prosecutions of officials that are negligent, incompetent or plainly untrustworthy.

“Probably because President Buhari is unable or unwilling to hold his appointees responsible for any deterioration of the security situation and some other socioeconomic sectors under their watch, the vast amount of money and other resources being pumped into the security agencies have largely been ineffective.

“We demand that President Buhari braces up without further delay and rises to today’s occasion,” the group said.

Politics

What will happen under Tinubu presidency – Adegboruwa

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Legal practitioner Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa believes a Bola Tinubu presidency will be controlled by the North.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) said this in a statement on Tuesday.

Adegboruwa reiterated his rejection of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Muslim-Muslim ticket.

The lawyer said it was a sign that others don’t matter and shows absence of consideration for unity and plurality.

“Desperation and over-ambition. We just want power at all costs and we don’t care what others think or do.

“We can win the elections without you, especially by other means other than by open ballot,” he said.

Adegboruwa noted that APC’s action was a cruel affirmation of supposed superiority complex.

“It is an indication of a hidden agenda. The spirit of Hope 93 died with MKO and those who betrayed him and his mandate.

“May Boko Haram, terrorists and insurgents, their sponsors and sympathizers not win the 2023 elections,” he noted.

He said the same-religion ticket suggests only one region determines electoral victory and that Tinubu is not acceptable to Northern Muslims.

Adegboruwa accused the APC of acting like Nigeria is not a secular state but rather being ruled to satisfy certain religious tendencies.

“That the APC has absolute control of the electoral system and thus electoral victory may not be determined through free, fair and credible elections.

“That certain political tendencies and interests do not trust others to accommodate them if they are entrusted with power whereas they have been in power and accommodated by others.”

Adegboruwa added that the North has proven that Tinubu has no mind of his own “and will be unable to defend the unity of Nigeria in crucial moments of decision making”.

The statement added the the APC is incompetent to manage a complex nation like Nigeria with diverse interests, different tongues and tribes and consisting of different faiths.

Politics

Accept returnees, A’Ibom deputy gov urges PDP officials

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The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Moses Ekpo, has pleaded with all ward officials of the Peoples Democratic Party across the state not to reject or discriminate against ex-decampees who are returning to the party.

His plea was contained in a statement on Tuesday by his Press Secretary, Ekikere Umoh, titled, “Accommodate All Returnees, Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor Tells PDP.”

According to the statement, Ekpo made the appeal while visiting 11 PDP wards in Abak Local Government Area of the state.

He noted that since the state had become the stronghold of the PDP, party officials must appreciate the need to accommodate persons who were either cajoled or manipulated to leave the party.

The statement read in part, “Don’t ever forget that our symbol is the umbrella, and of what use would be a large umbrella which cannot shelter people from the rains and harsh weather.” 

He explained that the essence of his visit was to “feel the pulse of the party at the grassroots and to sensitise them to the fact that the party primaries were over with the emergence of candidates, and to further urge all members to close ranks and work as a family in order to sustain the party’s success at the forthcoming 2023 polls.”

He further charged the membership of the party at the grassroots to continue to support the party in order to reap the benefits of democracy and good governance, assuring them that it was only by so doing that the grassroots could experience steady development and rural transformation. 

Ekpo also used the occasion to urge the party members to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards while presenting the candidates who would fly the party’s flag for the state and the National Assembly in the 2023 elections.

He, therefore, solicited their support for the candidates during the forthcoming elections. 

Politics

Shettima: Actor Kenneth Okonkwo dumps APC

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Nollywood actor, Kenneth Okonkwo, has dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress over the party’s decision to fly a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket for the 2023 election.

The PUNCH reports that the APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, on Sunday, announced former Borno State governor, Kashim Shettima, as his running mate despite opposition from some quarters to a same-faith ticket.

The thespian announced his decision in a letter shared on his Instagram page on Monday.

He said his decision became imperative following Tinubu’s choice of Shettima as running mate despite clamour from stakeholders and other Nigerians that a Christain northerner should complement the party’s ticket.

Part of the letter read, “Recall that joined APC because of its Constitutional vow, as true Progressives and Patriots, to eliminate all forms of discrimination and social injustice in Nigeria, thereby building the nation a nation which will guarantee equal opportunity for all and ensure mutual and peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.

“Those ideals are now alien to the APC, with their unfortunate decision to paint our Muslim brothers in had light, by insinuating that the Muslims in Nigeria will not accept or vote for a Northern Christian as Vice-President to pair with a Southern Muslim.

“If Muslims could vote voluntarily for Southern Christian Presidents, it is then a fallacy to insinuate that they cannot accept a Northern Christian Vice-President. This will permanently destroy the political viability of Northern Christians in Nigeria, if allowed to stand.

“Being the convener of the Campaign for Equity and Justice in Nigeria, and as a former member of APC Presidential Campaign Council, which resisted same religion presidential ticket in the past, I can no longer continue to lend my name to these abnormalities in the interest of our peaceful co-existence, integration and progress of our beloved country.”

Politics, World News

ISWAP Terrorists Planning To Attack Christians, Targets In Nigerian Capital, Abuja, Released Kuje Jihadists To Pursue Goal—Civil Defence, NSCDC

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It also said that the Islamic terrorists had declared war against Christians in Nigeria, saying that was why they attacked the Kuje Correctional Centre and released some of their fighters to sustain the attack.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has raised the alarm over planned attacks by the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on selected targets in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
It also said that the Islamic terrorists had declared war against Christians in Nigeria, saying that was why they attacked the Kuje Correctional Centre and released some of their fighters to sustain the attack.


NSCDC disclosed this in letter with Ref: No; NSCDC/CMDT/FCT/INT/VOL.X/188 addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Federal Capital Territory Administration and was by FCT Commandant, Peter Maigari.
 
The letter obtained by Leadership which SaharaReporters sighted on Sunday, was dated July 8, 2022, and titled: “Security Alert: Renewed Threat Of Attack By ISWAP Terrorist On Targets within The FCT”.
The letter reads, “Certified intelligence reveals that members of the decimated terrorist group Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) have concluded plans to launch more coordinated and spontaneous attacks on selected targets within the federal Capital Territory (FCT) and had declared war against Christians in Nigeria.
“Intelligence abounds that ISWAP terrorist group has claimed responsibilities of the Tuesday 5th of July, 2022 attack on Kuje medium security custodial centre, releasing their adherent members.


“The foregoing is to enable them hibernate in targeted communities (FCT) and re-strategize for further terrorist activities, especially on soft targets to keep the agenda of the group alive to the public.
 
“Comment: Taking into consideration the recent terrorist attack on Kuje medium security custodial centre for good two hours without any security resistance indicated their readiness to carry out more coordinated attacks in selected cities/towns, security formations, schools, and worship centres in FCT, hence the released of their members for more formidable squad to achieved their dastardly act.

“Recommendation: Against this backdrop, it is advised that counter measures be emplaced, and
there is need to review existing security measures around such targets and other sensitive facilities with security formations, in FCT to frustrate the planned attack.
“This report is submitted for your information and necessary action sir.”


Last Tuesday, ISWAP terrorists attacked Mike Correctional Centre, freeing hundreds of inmates, including Jihadists held at the prison facility. 

Politics

APC exploits PDP crisis, Atiku’s absence, woos Wike

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As preparations for the 2023 general elections hot up, the ruling All Progressives Congress is making frantic moves to win more influential politicians into its fold. Three governors on the platform of the party on Friday visited the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, to woo him to join the party.

Wike is said to be dissatisfied with the outcome of the presidential primary of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, which produced Atiku Abubakar as the candidate, while he emerged as the first runner-up. The governor is also said to be aggrieved by the choice of Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as Atiku’s running mate despite the recommendations of a committee that favoured him.

The aftermath of the primary led to a deep crack in the party with some members, believed to be loyal to Wike, calling for the resignation of the national chairman, Iyorchia Ayu and substitution of Okowa’s name with Wike as the running mate.

The absence of Atiku, who has been on vacation abroad, is also said to be exacerbating the crisis, as many believe he should have met Wike in person and play a critical role in uniting the party before the crisis escalates.

The APC is therefore believed to be taking advantage of the festering crisis in the opposition party and Atiku’s absence to woo the governor, who is seen by many as influential and a mobiliser.

On Friday, three APC governors: Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum; Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State; and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; and a former governor of Ekiti State, Ayo Fayose, who is a PDP member, visited Wike in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

As soon as they alighted from their vehicle, they exchanged banters, hugs and handshakes with Wike. However, a top government official in the state who did not want his name mentioned noted that as soon as they arrived, they went into a closed-door meeting with Wike and that the meeting lasted for about an hour and thirty minutes.

Though it could not be ascertained what their discussion was about, it is believed that the visit was about the 2023 elections and attempt by the ruling party to woo the governor to join the APC.

When asked by reporters what their visit was about, Fayemi reportedly said “it was a Sallah visit”.

While trading banters before the meeting, Fayemi who was the first to speak while in a handshake with Wike said, “Why did you come here with a camera?” Wike replied, “Am I hiding?”

Then, Akeredolu while shaking the governor, said, “Wike, Wike,” which elicited another response from him, saying, “They said I went to London. Which day did I go to London? Is this place (his residence) London?” But Fayemi interjected, “London via Turkey.”

Teasing their host, Akeredolu kept hailing Wike and told him that the cap he (Wike) wore was now in vogue but Wike replied, saying “I don’t want to wear it”, as they all burst into laughter and walked towards the governor’s residence.

They continued their banter as they walked towards Wike’s residence.

‘Come join us’

Meanwhile, a source at the meeting, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the APC governors told Wike to join them in their quest to win the 2023 presidential election.

The source said, “The plan is to woo him to our side since his party seems to be ignoring him. We asked him to work with us.”

Asked what Wike’s response was, the source said “Well, you don’t expect him to jump at the offer. This is because his party already had a candidate for all the elective positions, especially in his state. But we want him to work with our presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. But he gave us no commitment.”

Their visit came a few weeks after Governor Dave Umahi, also of the APC, visited the governor and held a closed-door meeting with him. The details of the meeting were not known but it is believed it’s also about the 2023 elections. Umahi and Wike had previously had open disagreements prior to the party primaries.

Apart from Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples’ Party who also visited the governor, some PDP leaders, including Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, the Senate Minority Leader, Phillip Aduda; his deputy, Shuaibu Lau; and deputy Minority Whip, Danjuma La’ah, had paid similar visits to Wike recently. The visits also included closed-door meetings.

There has been widespread speculation that Wike may be contemplating dumping the PDP, but the governor who had always said he remained in the PDP, had yet to make any statement to that effect.

Governor Samuel Ortom had in a recent interview expressed displeasure over the way the party handled the aftermath of the primary, especially as it concerned Wike. Fayose, who contested the presidential primary, said about a week ago that it was either southern presidency or nothing.

PDP kicks

Meanwhile, the PDP has said it is not threatened by the visit of the APC governors to Wike. It also said the visit was expected since the 36 governors would have common issues to deliberate upon.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba, told one of our correspondents in an interview that the visit by the three APC governors was normal.

He added, “The (APC) governors are free to visit any of their colleagues. Wike, who is our performing governor, couldn’t have rejected the offer by his colleagues to visit him. Also, the visit is not meant to threaten us. We are not threatened at all because the APC were probably in Rivers State to learn from Wike.

“Let me also add that the governors have a club known as the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and its members are free to socialise and visit one another. There is nothing wrong with that. It is good for governance because beyond politics, the governors need to come together for the good of the country.”

Asked when Atiku would return to the country, Ologunagba said, “Anytime from now.”

However, sources within the party said its leadership was worried about Atiku’s trips.

Atiku was said to have travelled to the United States some days ago, from where he moved to Dubai. However, a source close to him told one of our correspondents that the former vice president is now in France.

Rivers APC speaks

The spokesperson for the APC in Rivers State, Chris Finebone, has said he wouldn’t be the one to decide whether or not Wike would be welcomed to the APC if he decides to defect.

He said in an interview with one of our correspondents, “I won’t be the one to decide whether the door will be open or closed but if you ask me for my personal opinion, Wike will not go to the APC.

“Wike may work out something with those who are visiting him and might not necessarily go to the APC. There are a thousand and-one things he can arrange with those visiting him without pronouncing his movement to APC; that is my personal view.

“I think it is taking speculations too far that those three governors came with an ex-governor Fayose, it may be a sign of working together but it may also not mean out rightly decamping to join the party.”

Ex-VP in France

Meanwhile, Atiku is said to be in France after his trips to the United States and Dubai. A top source in the party told one of our correspondents that the former vice-president was on vacation, adding that he needed to rest given that once he returned he would be busy with campaigns that would last till the February 25, 2023 presidential election.

When reminded that Atiku’s absence was not good for the party, the source said, “Atiku Abubakar is on vacation. The man is taking a break. This race will be a marathon by the time he gets back, so he deserves the vacation now.

“Genuine stakeholders, members of the party and leaders recognise that everything needs to be done to resolve all the issues and the reconciliation process has started and is ongoing. It’s not only about Atiku Abubakar; the party has taken ownership of it. He’s the candidate of the party and the party is trying to find a solution to these issues, and I think people should give them the opportunity.”

When asked if Atiku’s camp had fears about the APC governors to Wike, the source said, “People need to have some respect for Governor Nyesom Wike. He is a governor and those who visited him are also governors, and they have a right to interact and if they do, why should people interpret it wrongly. That amounts to a disservice and they are not being fair to him.

“In all of these, we must take cognisance of what Governor Wike has said; that PDP is in his DNA and that whatever was the outcome of that primary, he would work for the PDP in 2023. That was his last say on that matter and I think we should respect that.

Tinubu returns

The presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, returned to the country on Friday, 11 days after he travelled to France.

Tinubu’s Spokesperson, Tunde Rahman, confirmed this in an interview with one of our correspondents on Friday.

Also, Tinubu, via his official Twitter handle, Friday evening, shared a tweet, “Heading home,” with a link to his Instagram page showing him inside an aircraft.

Tinubu had travelled to France on June 27 for “important meetings.”

Tinubu departed Nigeria shortly after he held a closed-door meeting with the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on June 27.

While announcing his trip to France via a statement, Rahman said, “He is off to Paris, France to hold some important meetings. The APC standard-bearer is expected back in the country shortly.”

Some of his supporters expressed hope that the matter of his running mate would now be settled in a matter of days.

Although his media team averred that the candidate travelled to the French country ‘to hold important meetings,’ his critics believed that it was a mission to perfect his plans ahead of the 2023 general elections while some believed he travelled for medical attention.

Ayu back home

On Friday, Ayu also returned to the country from the United Kingdom after a brief vacation. He arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Ayu travelled to the UK on June 21 for a brief vacation after the party’s primaries and nomination processes.

A statement by the Special Assistant on Communication and Strategy to the Chairman, Simon Imobo-Tswam, stated that before the vacation, Ayu the Deputy National Chairman (North), Ambassador Umar Damagum, to act for him.

Politics

BREAKING: Peter Obi unveils running mate 

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The Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has unveiled his running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed.

Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, the founder of Baze University, Abuja, was announced as the LP vice-presidential candidate in Abuja on Friday.

The 46-year-old was a former lawmaker who represented Kaduna North  Senatorial district.

Baba-Ahmed’s announcement was coming barely 24 hours after the Director-General, Peter Obi Campaign Organisation, Doyin Okupe, announced his withdrawal as the vice-presidential candidate of the party.

Okupe who announced his withdrawal via his verified Twitter handle @doyinokupe noted that his party would announce the new running mate to the presidential candidate.

“This afternoon I submitted my withdrawal letter from the position of the Vice Presidential candidate of the Labour Party to INEC. A replacement will be announced by d national chairman of d party shortly. I feel greatly blessed to have been part of the foundation of success 4 the LP,” Okupe tweeted.

The PUNCH reports that like the ruling All Progressives Congress, the Labour party had named Okupe as the interim vice presidential candidate of the LP in order to beat the deadline by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Details later…

Politics

Oyetola releases N1.6bn for pension payment

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Governor Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State has released the sum of N1.6 billion for the payment of pension to retirees in the State.

The money, according to a statement credited to the office of the Head of Service, is for the payment of pension from the month of June 2022, to retired workers under the old Pension Scheme, retired Primary School teachers and Local Government staff on Contributory Pensions Scheme, and retired civil servants in Ministries and Agencies of government.

N516,186,000 is meant for the payment of pension bonds to retired Primary School teachers and Local Government staff on Contributory Pensions Scheme, and a sum of N300 million to retired civil servants in Ministries and Agencies of Government.

The State government spends N752 million as monthly pension to all retired workers under the old Pensions Scheme.

The payment according to the statements would start on Thursday July, 14.

“The list of beneficiaries are posted on the Notice Boards of the Local Government Pensions Bureau, Civil Service Bureau Office of the Head of Service, and the Ministry of Information and Civic Orientation.

“All workers of the State, both serving and retired, are assured by Governor Gboyega Oyetola of continuous priority of their welfare in the scheme of things in the State”, the statement read.

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