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President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the N2.17tn Supplementary Budget for 2023 at the State House in Abuja.
This is coming six days after the Senate and House of Representatives approved the Supplementary Appropriation Bill forwarded to them for consideration.
The Supreme Court has fixed Monday, October 23, 2023, for hearing of an appeal filed by Atiku Abubakar, challenging the judgement of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal, which upheld the victory of the All Progressives Congress, APC’s Bola Tinubu.
Atiku had pleaded with the Supreme Court to jettison technicality and grant his application for leave to tender fresh and additional evidence to support his claim that Tinubu submitted a forged document to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to contest the February 25 presidential election.
Atiku predicated his plea on the grounds that presenting forged documents by any candidate, especially by a candidate for the highest office in the land, is a very grave constitutional issue that must not be encouraged.
The former vice president stated this in his reply on point of law to Tinubu’s objection to the grant of leave to Atiku to present the fresh evidence before the apex court.
And in a memo on Thursday, the apex court fixed Monday, October 23, for hearing of the appeal.
Seyi, son of President-elect, Bola Tinubu, has assured Nigerians of a better country and a renewed hope in the incoming administration.
He gave the assurance on Saturday in Abuja when he joined other supporters and admirers of his father at the Day 34 of the pre-inauguration hangout.
The daily pre-inauguration hangout which began on March 26, was organised by a political pressure group, Patriots in Defense of Democracy.
Mr Seyi, who arrived at the Unity Fountain, venue of the hangout along with his team, was ushered in with various scintillating cultural displays.
He appreciated all supporters present at the hangout and assured youths that the incoming administration would give priority to their needs in all areas, particularly in appointive positions.
The group’s convener, Mr Tosin Adeyanju, said the daily pre-inauguration hangout was in solidarity with the mandate freely given by Nigerians to Tinubu on Feb. 25.
He said the hangout was aimed at redirecting the ongoing narratives about the presidential election and the emergence of Mr Tinubu as the president-elect.
Mr Adeyanju said that the hangout would continue until May 29, when Mr Tinubu would be sworn in as the country’s 16th democratically elected president.
“The attendees had been here for 34 days now to chase out anti-democracy preachers as well as to stand on the mandate freely given to Mr Tinubu, the President-elect.
“We have had several events, including a medical outreach to bring health facility closer to the attendees as a way to adding colour to the hangout,” he said.
Mr Adeyanju said the hangout was being sustained by contributions from friends and Mr Tinubu’s well-wishers.
Mr Obiajulu Uja, the middle-aged man who disrupted an Abuja to Lagos flight over the weekend, when he stood up to say that President-elect, Bola Tinubu, will never be sworn-in as President on May 29, was on Monday, April 3, arraigned before the Zuba Magistrates’ Court, Abuja and remanded in prison custody.
In a viral video, Uja could be seen saying Tinubu will never be sworn-in as President.
Six airport security officers later came in and forcefully evacuated him from the aircraft. His actions prevented the flight from leaving for over an hour.
According to the court papers, Uja was charged with “public nuisance, resistance to a lawful arrest, threatening violence and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace contrary to sections 396, 267,188,172 and 144 of the Penal Code Law.”
Uja had through his counsel told the police that he was mentally unstable and should not be arraigned. This was however dismissed by the police who took him to the court for arraignment.
The court will on Thursday, April 6 hear his bail application.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented certificates of return to President-elect Bola Tinubu and his running mate, Kashim Shettima, hours after they were declared winners of the presidential election that was held February 25.
On Wednesday afternoon, amid pomp and circumstance, and in the midst of jubilant supporters, Mr Tinubu received his certificate from INEC chair, Mahmood Yakubu.
His excited supporters sang “Bola, on your mandate we shall stand,” and chanted “Awa lo kan” as Mr Tinubu raised the framed certificate, posing for photographs.
Mr Shettima, on his part, swayed to the podium amid shouts of “golden boy” from party supporters to receive his certificate of return from the electoral officials.
The ceremony was attended by vice president Yemi Osinbajo and several governors including Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), former Ekiti governor, Kayode Fayemi and so on.
After the national anthem was sung at the close of the event, the president-elect walked out in style to “Asiwaju,” a Nigerian hit track which happens to be Mr Tinubu’s nickname.
Mr Tinubu would be sworn in as president of the nation on June 12, the nation’s democracy day.
Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the ruling party, All Progressive Congress(APC) has been declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) as the winner of the February 25th presidential election in a tightly contested poll amid several.
In the final result declared by the INEC chairman Mahmood Yakub at the National Collation Centre, Abuja on Wednesday morning, where the election results of each state were being presented since three days ago, Mr Tinubu gathered 8,794,726 votes across 12 states to emerge the president-elect.
Meanwhile, Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP) followed closely having scored 6,984,520 votes across 12 states while Peter Obi of the Labour Party(LP) garnered 6,101,533 votes also from 12 states to become third.
Former Kano state governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party(NNPP) finished fourth in the poll with 1,496,687 votes, with just one state, which was in Kano.
Meanwhile, the whole electoral process had not been without controversies, with the leading opposition parties PDP, LP and ADC calling for the cancellation of the presidential elections, arguing that INEC did not comply with the law in the collation and announcement of results.
They had requested INEC to display the results captured on its IReV portal from each polling unit to crosscheck with the manual results being announced by the Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) and the State Returning Officers from each state during their presentation inside the Abuja collation venue.
To be declared the winner, a candidate must score the highest number of votes and at least 25 percent of votes in 25 states (two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 states and the federal capital, Abuja).
The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, is in Mecca for Umrah ahead of the forthcoming presidential election in February.
It was reported on Saturday that Tinubu was in Saudi Arabia, after denying meeting with G-5 governors of the Peoples Democratic Party in London.
His media aide, Tunde Rahman, said Tinubu will be back in Nigeria “within the next two days to continue with the campaign”.
Chief Spokesperson for the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council, Festus Keyamo has claimed that the alleged drug money the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate forfeited in the United States was tax.
Keyamo made the claim following the controversy surrounding a document recently released by the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, after Tinubu’s alleged involvement in narcotics and money laundering about 30 years ago was investigated.
Appearing on a Channels Television program last night, Keyamo who insisted that Tinubu was an employee of Mobil Oil and not a treasurer of a drug cartel, also said that he (Tinubu) deposited some funds in bank accounts in the US as investments and got returns on those investments.
He claimed that 10 accounts were linked to Tinubu by United States authorities in the early 90s, and $460,000 were deducted from one of the accounts as tax on investments domiciled in US banks.
The Minister of state for Labour also said Tinubu took responsibility for all the 10 accounts because they were also traced to his mother and “relatives”.
He added that the banks were supposed to deduct taxes from the investments but they did not and this was not a “deliberate act” on the part of Tinubu.
Keyamo said;
“He, Asiwaju, went to open an account, the address by which he opened the account was already used by these people…investigated for narcotics.
“The deposits he made there (in banks) are what bankers called investments; he kept the money there and he was getting interests. They (US government) said he had not paid tax on those interests. That is all and guess what? The banks are supposed to deduct the tax from source.
“Out of the 10 accounts, it was only one account – the one in Heritage Bank – that they took $460,000 as tax on interest that he benefited on the investment he made in those accounts.
“In fact, all the money in Heritage Bank was not taken; they took only $460,000 as tax.”
Keyamo insisted that there’s no criminal indictment or conviction against Tinubu, alleging that the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was behind the reincarnation of the controversial court document.
He added;
“His (Tinubu’s) detractors kept bringing up these issues over and over when his political profile is rising, when he wants to run for office or any political turn in his life, they will bring up these issues.
“The date on the papers flying up and down, the date of certification is 2022, so they are using this to confuse people that these are fresh papers. If documents are 40 years old or 100 years old, once you go to court, and apply for certified true copies of those documents, they will give you those documents but they will stamp the day they are giving you those documents.
“This is what our detractors, the PDP, perhaps that is what they went to the US for when they pretended that they went for high-level engagement. This is part of the high-level engagement they went for.”
The Osun State Police Command has debunked claim of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, being attacked in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola said the video was actually recorded during the October 17, 2020, attack on Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola’s convoy during End Sars protest in Osogbo.
The police spokesperson asked residents of the state to disregard the information and go about their legitimate businesses without entertaining fear of insecurity
The statement read;
“The attention of Osun State Police Command has been drawn to the news making the rounds and video trending on social media that; Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s convoy was attacked by Osun Youths on the 8th of October 2022.
“The Osun State Police Command wishes to inform the members of the public that, the news/trending video on social media was the attack on the Osun State Governor, His Excellency Oyetola Adegboyega’s convoy by EndSars protesters about 2 years ago, 17th of October 2020 and not the 8th of October 2022, as being mischievously circulated.
“To put the record straight, I wish to inform you that Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not come to Osun State for any program of late at all.
The Commissioner of Police, therefore, enjoins the good people of the State to disregard the information and go about their legitimate businesses without entertaining fear of insecurity.”
The chairman of Lagos State Parks and Garages management committee, Musiliu Akinsanya popularly known as MC Oluomo and other supporters of the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu are holding a rally in Lagos State on Sunday.
The march commenced at the Teslim Balogun Stadium and will terminate at Oshodi.
The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, the Vice presidential candidate, Kashim Shettima and the speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila attended Jumat prayer together on Friday.
Sharing photos on his Facebook page, the Speaker said:
Jumat prayers at Dantata Mosque, Abuja with APC Presidential Candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice-Presidential Candidate, Sen. Kashim Shettima and other worshippers.
A lawsuit seeking the disqualification of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), from contesting the 2023 elections for allegedly presenting the forged certificate will be heard by a Federal High Court in Abuja on September 7.
The Plaintiffs, who are four chieftains of the APC asked the court for an order disqualifying Tinubu from contesting or participating in the forthcoming 2023 presidential election as a candidate of All Progressives Congress on the grounds of the information he supplied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the presidential candidate of the party.
In a 33-paragraph affidavit in support of the suit deposed to by Ibiang Miko Ibiang, the plaintiffs claimed that Tinubu falsely swore to an affidavit in 1999 in which he claimed to have attended St. Paul Aroloya Children Home School, Ibadan -1958-64 and Government College, Ibadan -1965-68 and presented same to INEC.
They also claimed that after this turned out to be false, Tinubu allegedly tried to conceal this by refusing to provide any information whatsoever relating to his primary and Secondary schools in his INEC form for the 2023 election.
Counsel to the Plaintiff, Goddy Uche, told the court that substituted service has become necessary because all attempts to serve the presidential candidate have proved abortive as he cannot be reached.
Justice Ahmed Mohammed who ruled on the case, ordered that the Court process be served on the National Secretariat of APC and that such service shall be deemed as having been properly served on Bola Tinubu. He further adjourned the case to September 7. The plaintiffs had posed the following questions for determination;
Whether having regard to the provision of sections 1 (3); 4(1)and 2; 14(1),(2)(a), and (c)and 42(1)(a)and (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,1999 (as amended), the provision of section 29(5)of the Electoral Act, 2022 as enacted by the 4th Defendant which modified the provision section 31(5) of the Electoral Act,2010(as amended) is not ultra vires the 4th Defendant and therefore unconstitutional, null, void and of no effect whatever.
Whether having regard to the decision of the Supreme Court in the case Modibbo Vs Usman (2020) 3 NWLR(PT.1712)470 and the provision of section 137(1)(j) the 3rd Defendant has not presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) the 1st Defendant and thereby disqualified from participating in the forthcoming 2023 Presidential General Election.
They also prayed that upon the favourable determination of the above questions, for the following reliefs:
A declaration of the Court that the provision of section 29(5) of the Electoral Act,2022 is ultra vires the 4th Defendant and unconstitutional, null, void, and of no effect whatsoever.
An order of the Court striking out/striking down the provision of section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022 from the Electoral Act and the body of extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria same being ultra vires the 4th and 5th Defendants, unconstitutional, null, void and of no effect whatsoever.
A declaration that the 3rd Defendant has presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission for the purpose of seeking to be elected into the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A declaration that the 3rd defendant stands disqualified from participating in the 2023 presidential election as a candidate of the 2nd Defendant has presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission for the purpose of seeking to be elected into the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
An order disqualifying the 3rd Defendant from contesting or participating in the forthcoming 2023 Presidential general election as a candidate of the 2nd Defendant.
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.”
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.
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.
Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, has called on relevant authorities to go after Tuesday’s attackers of Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Tinubu who is also one of the leaders of the APC, made the call in a statement by his Media Officer, Mr Tunde Rahman, in Abuja.
He particularly condemned the terrorist attack on the centre, saying the incessant terror attacks plaguing the country was worrisome.
The former two-term Lagos State governor, while calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant and united behind constituted authorities, said fleeing inmates from the facility must be re-arrested and returned to the facility.
“These incessant attacks on government’s institutions and innocent citizens are a sad reminder that we still have a lot to do to put these evil forces in check.”
He condemned the dastardly attack, urging the government to immediately go after the attackers and fleeing inmates of the facility.
While calling for full investigations of the incident, Tinubu said Nigerians must all remain vigilant and united.
He added that the moment called for national unity and deep introspection.
He, however, said Nigerians should continue to support President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in its battle against insurgents and determination to confront agents of darkness.
He commiserated with families and relations of those who lost their lives in the attack and called on the government to continue to provide succour and medical attention to those injured.
As Muslims celebrate Eid-el Kabir, the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) arrived in Daura, Katsina State to celebrate the Sallah holiday. Meanwhile, the President; Senate President Ahmed Lawan; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and other Federal Government dignitaries have congratulated Nigerians on the Sallah celebrations.
In a similar vein, presidential candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, and the main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, felicitated Nigerians, urging Muslims and Nigerians to live exemplary and peaceful lives with one another according to the dictates of Islam.
Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Nyesom Wike of Rivers State also called on Nigerians to use the opportunity to imbibe and demonstrate the values of peace, love and sacrifice that the celebration embodies.
The leaders also prayed for peace, unity and prosperity of the country during the festivities, while lamenting the spate of violence perpetrated in recent times.
They also prayed for the safety of security agencies who are fighting against bandits and non-state actors to preserve the sovereignty of the nation.
Lawan said the ninth National Assembly would continue to work assiduously and collaborate with the other arms of government towards stabilising the security and economy of the country to the relief of all Nigerians.
He said, “Since the inauguration of the ninth Assembly in 2019, we have enacted a good number of quality legislations to improve the security situation and boost the economy.
“We know that more needs to be done to overcome the challenges. The government is not relenting in addressing the challenges and we are confident they will soon become history.
“As we approach another election year, I earnestly urge Nigerians to look to the future with hope. We will continue to play our roles as a government and count on the prayers and support of the people.”
In a similar vein, Gbajabiamila; the deputy speaker, Idris Wase; and the minority caucus also rejoiced with Muslims, while calling for prayers, unity and patriotism.
Gbajabiamila, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi said, “At times like this, the speaker said it is incumbent on the people to be united as one people to face the challenges confronting the country. The speaker is optimistic that with prayers, Nigeria will overcome her challenges, while calling for special prayers for the peaceful conduct of the 2023 general elections.”
Wase, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Umar Puma, called on Muslims to use the holiday to offer prayers for the unity and progress of the country in the face of the current economic and security challenges.
Similarly, Tinubu, and his wife, Oluremi, in separate statements urged Muslims faithful to embrace peace, unity, tolerance and justice as they celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir.
Tinubu in his statement on Friday stated that the significance of the holiday should not be neglected.
The former Lagos State governor further described the increase in violent attacks as “most troubling” stating that the perpetrators of “such inhumanity do so in opposition to Islam and all that it means.”
His wife urged Nigerians not to give up on the unity of the country. She stated, “As we collectively confront our challenges as a nation and build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, by acknowledging God’s supremacy, genuine love and respect for one another, I enjoin us to remain steadfast to the cause of a united Nigeria.”
Atiku also urged the current regime to show love to the people, in the spirit of the Eid-el-Kabir by prioritising the needs of the citizens and discharging its responsibilities. While praying for the peace of the nation, he urged Nigerians to work hard for the “unity of all peoples, tribes, and faiths in the country.
He said in a statement, “I wish to also task the government at all levels to play its constitutional role, by being upright and dutiful and prioritise the needs of the people they have taken an oath to serve. The unity, security and development of our country are sacrosanct.
“The expression of love and sacrifice symbolised by the Eid-el-Kabir celebration has a strong effect on the relationship between the government and the governed. It is incumbent on the government to optimally discharge its responsibilities to the people. It is only when this is done that there can be love between the government and the governed.
“As stakeholders, the citizens too should take a lesson from the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir by being up and doing in their civic responsibilities.
“As we inch towards the deadline on the ongoing voter registration exercise, the people must ensure that they play their roles by not just getting their permanent voter cards, but casting their votes for the best candidates in the elections next year.
“Above all, I pray for peace during and after the Eid celebration even as I task Nigerians to work even harder in ensuring unity of all peoples, tribes and faiths in the country.”
Meanwhile, a former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, congratulated Muslims and other faithful on this year’s Eid-el-Kabir. While urging them to remember those whose movement had been restricted by the activities of non-state actors when they converge on different grounds to worship Allah, he urged Nigerians and Muslim clergies to pray for peace, security, unity and prosperity of the country.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki urged Muslims to demonstrate in their daily activities the values of the celebration which are “obedience to Allah, genuine sacrifice to and faith in their creator.” He also urged Nigerians to pray for God’s guidance in the choice of visionary leaders in the forthcoming elections.
The statement read in part, “As we get ready to go to the polls next year to elect new leaders, we should pray for the guidance of Allah in doing what is right and working honestly for the elections to produce leaders whose policies, programmes, and projects will restore unity, peace, stability, prosperity, inclusivity, justice, equity and patriotism in our country.”
The governor of Lagos State also felicitated Muslims as he urged Nigerians to make sacrifices for the development of the country.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, the governor called on Lagos residents to draw lessons from the Prophet’s examples by avoiding any action that could disturb the peace, unity, and stability of the country.
The statement read in part, “This symbolic Islamic festival is a reminder to us that there will always be great rewards when we have abiding faith and patience in trying periods; persistence in prayers and tenacity in our beliefs. It also reminds us of the sacrifice we are expected to make not only for spiritual fulfillment but also for the progress of mankind and development of our society.”
Also, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, pledged that the Assembly would continue to come up with bills to protect the lives and property of residents of the state.
The speaker, in a statement, said, “Concerning the safety of lives and property, Lagos remains a shining light; a good example of a government that works for its people. With all the arms of the government working together, we have achieved greater feats in the area of security.
“Your representatives at the Assembly have never shied away from the task of making our dear state attractive and better for its residents. We have made laws and passed resolutions that have helped in this regard,” he said.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has also felicitated Muslim faithful in the state over the celebration, with the call on them to celebrate with moderation.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin, he stated, “As we know that the country is being confronted with challenges, particularly security, I want to enjoin our Muslim brothers to celebrate with moderation. As Islam preaches, they should also remember the poor and share the merry with them.
“Similarly, the festival must be used to invoke Allah’s mercy on our country, state and homes, especially at this period our nation is faced with banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and insurgency.”
Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, also urged Muslims to use the occasion to offer prayers for sustained development, peace and unity, as the state prepares for its governorship election.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan, the governor said, “Therefore, as Muslims, we must always exhibit the act of genuine sacrifice and submission to the will of Allah which are the major lessons of this festival. We must endeavour to make sacrifices for ourselves, our families, our neighbours, our state, and our country.
“As a government, we have done everything possible to ensure a credible and peaceful exercise come July 16, 2022. I reassure you that I will continue to work for the socio-economic development and prosperity of our dear State.”
The Kwara State governor, who congratulated the Muslim community on the dawn of Arafah Day as well as the Eid-el-Adha, said the two occasions offered the faithful another rare opportunity to seek God’s bounties as well as bond with one another in an atmosphere of love and unity.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor specifically congratulated the pilgrims from Kwara State and Nigeria as they reached an important milestone of the spiritual journey to Mecca, tasking them and citizens back home to take advantage of the moment to beseech Allah for His continuous mercies on the state, Nigeria, and humanity as a whole.
“Similarly, I appeal to our compatriots to imbibe the lessons of Eid-el-Adha as exemplified by Prophets Abraham and Muhammad, which are patience, sacrifice, faith in God, resilience in good causes, and selfless service to God and humanity. In this wise, nothing is too big to give for collective security, peace and progress of our state and Nigeria.”
Meanwhile, Obaseki in a statement said, “I felicitate our Muslim brothers and sisters on the celebration of the Eid-el-Kabir. As we join our Muslim faithful to mark this auspicious celebration, I urge everyone to imbibe the lesson of sacrifice that it symbolises. Beyond personal convictions, we all have a deeper and greater responsibility to God and humanity.
“Eid-el-Kabir offers us another opportunity to rededicate ourselves to our beneficent creator, and reinforces the virtues of patience, tolerance, and love.”
“These times demand that in our struggle to build a better nation, we are united and join hands across ethno-religious inclinations to work for our collective progress.”
Also, Wike has sued for peace, saying it is key to enhancing stability and the growth of the country.
In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kelvin Ebiri, he congratulated Muslims and prayed for peace and wisdom in solving the challenges facing the nation, especially insecurity.
The governor promised that the State will continue to protect the rights of every citizen in the state and guarantee the freedom of worship and association as enshrined in the constitution.
Operatives deploy officers
State police commands have assured citizens to go about the Eid-el Kabir celebrations without fear. While it felicitate residents, it said it had deployed adequate operatives, tactical squads, and DPOs to all the nooks and crannies of the state, including vulnerable and crime-prone areas, to ensure the safety of lives and property.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Abiodun Alabi, in a statement on Friday, by the command’s spokesman, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, directed all Area Commanders, DPOs, Tactical Commanders and Intelligence Officers to ensure that all areas were well covered.
Similarly, the Edo State Police Command has deployed 3,426 personnel to provide security and maintain traffic during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Deputy Public Relations Officer, ASP Jennifer Iwegbu, the command said, “In the light of the above, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abutu Yaro, has deployed 3,426 Police and traffic personnel in an effort targeted at decimating crimes and criminality as well as improving the security of lives and property during and after the celebration.”
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed, has warned ‘mischief makers’ to steer clear of the state, noting that they would be decisively dealt with during the Eid el-Kabir celebration.
In a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Edafe Bright, Muhammed said, “The CP warns cultists and mischief makers to steer clear as the command will deal decisively with anybody who is found wanting.”
Meanwhile, the Commander, Ekiti Amotekun Corps, Brig. Gen. Joe Komolafe (retd.), said on Friday that operatives of the security agency had stepped up patrol of roads in the state. He said they had also put in place necessary security arrangements ahead of the Eid-el Kabir celebrations.
Komolafe said, “Nobody should entertain fear; we will be on the highways and patrol the Eid grounds to see that we are close to the places and after the exercise, everybody can go home and enjoy the celebration. We are networking, we are having 24 hours patrol to ensure that Ekiti is safe,” he said.
In a similar vein, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, Babaji Sunday, has directed worshippers to park their vehicles 200 metres away from the Eid prayer ground located on Airport Road in Abuja.
In a statement by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Josephine Adeh, on Friday in Abuja, said, “No vehicle will be permitted to park 200 meters close to praying grounds in all praying ground within the FCT.”
While assuring the residents that tactical and intelligence assets had been strategically deployed, he said, “Worshipers and residents are, therefore, advised to cooperate with Police officers, deployed strictly for enforcement.”
The Yobe State Commissioner of Police, Haruna Garba, has promised a hitch-free celebration in the state.
He said the state command would continue to sustain ongoing efforts in the fight against crime and criminality before, during and after the festivities.
Tuesday, a band of terrorists laid an ambush for President Muhammadu Buhari on his way to Daura for holiday. The President’s advanced convoy was corralled. Before the smokes from that gunbattle simmered, another terrorist attack was reported Wednesday morning. Hoodlums raided a huge prison hold in Kuje, freeing hundreds of criminals serving time. The mean men had a field day reuniting with their killer-partners slammed in the calaboose. That is the terrorised life Nigerians live today. When bandits strike on a nation’s presidential convoy anywhere around the world; it’s proof that terrorists hold sway in the country. With all of Buhari’s mouthing about keeping Nigerians safe, and his rambling rhetoric and empty threats hauled at those making Nigeria unlivable, it is certain that this retired Army General has lost grip of Nigeria’s security. Horror stories of terrorism have engulfed our nation. Nigerians are living in misery without food, money, and hopes for tomorrow. Many think the country can implode any minute. God forbid.
Political permutations about who becomes the next carrier of Nigeria’s nagging migraine headaches are running feverishly rackety. Who will that be? I leave the brawls and battles to the frenetic adherents of major candidates who have already turned the social media space into an Armageddon of brutal brabble and quibbles. Except God pulls a shocking one from His breath of the miraculous, one of these men-Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Abubakar Atiku, or Peter Obi, will become President. I begin with the ruling party’s standard bearer.
APC remaining in power at the centre in this election cycle may be a tall order. How does Tinubu pull it off without distancing himself from Buhari and his tales of woes? How does he disabuse the minds of Nigerians who believe that he is wealth-amassing, money-mongering, and uncannily-controlling of human beings in states his appointed men reign as governors? How does Jagaban shake off the health debate that his limbs are too weak, his heart too fluttering, and his grips are unsteady even when drinking a pint-size bottled water? These are concerns for Nigerians. As of today, however, Tinubu is the front-runner in this marathon dash for power. He has the money, the men, the mind, and strategies to get what he wants. Don’t joke with a man who believes that he is ordained by God to strap on the presidential crown this time. Tinubu told Nigerians that this is his time and turn. “E gbe kinni yi wa; EMI LO KAN”. Unfortunately, in a democracy, victory is not turn-by-turn. It is an all-out, tough-and-rough fight convincing people you are their help in times of trouble. Who dares say Tinubu has not paid his dues in political fight arenas? He has fought many power bases, over many issues, and over many decades on Nigeria’s tough political terrain. Tinubu can fight. The battle line is now drawn between him and human machineries set in dark places trying to ensure that he does not become President. But in this cycle, Tinubu is one of the favorites to become President. But how does he pull it off with his party’s dismal and terrible rule where Nigerians aren’t safe in their own home and Nigerians dying of hunger?
I also don’t know how PDP can return to the centre with its horrible testimonies that have not faded in Nigerians memories. Many believe that the foundation of the agony Nigerians suffer today was laid by the corrupt hands of PDP men and women. In 2013, Nigeria’s external reserves dipped from $47 billion to $29 billion in 2015 straight through the conduits of corruption. Savings depleted from $21 billion in 2010 to $2 billion in 2015. PDP’s Federal Government borrowed $2 billion to pay salaries in that season of Nigeria’s life. In May 2011, Nigeria’s debt was N2.5trn and oil price was $110 per barrel; and by May 2015 debt had risen to N12trn even with more revenue. Under the PDP watch, the American Government found out that about $9bn was stolen by fifty people. Abubakar Atiku, the party’s chaperon in next year’s election has a baggage load of malfeasances and infractions that I don’t have the writing privilege to rerun in a thirteen-hundred-word treatise. Like Tinubu, the Waziri of Adamawa is one of the favourites to win next year’s election. But how does he pull it off?
Peter Obi once sat in Anambra State Governor’s office. He too wants to be President. Surprisingly to many, Obi’s profile is rising in charms and chimes. His followership is increasing. New converts drawn to his gospel are swelling in size. His tub-thumpers are from everywhere. They are Yorubas, Igbos, and all. And they are young. Obi is making forays into unexpected cohorts. A lot of adherents of VP Yemi Osinbajo who lost in the APC primaries seem to have found a home in Obi’s tent. He is younger than all the major candidates. He talks populist economic sense. What he talks about appeals to ordinary Nigerians. He, too, is a favourite in this run. But if Obi will shock the system, he needs to rejigger in a few areas.
One, he must not listen to those who tell him he doesn’t need a structure. He does. Structure is a requisite process to success in business and life. It is like a drawn plan before you build a house. Obi will need a structure made of steel to war against an Atiku or Tinubu. Both men can boast of octopuses of long-standing structures.
Two, Obi must also quit hyperboles. He is preaching to a hungry and angry choir of Nigerians. Just like Tinubu and Atiku, Obi is an accomplished fella. He doesn’t need to exaggerate his testaments.
Three, Obi should also find a way not to allow his loyalists brand his run an Igbo project, but a Nigerian business. He has to win in other regions to become President. Between now and February 2023, he’s got to convince a lot more educated young and middle-aged Nigerians. He must make inroads into Gombe, Sokoto, Kano, Kogi, Nasarawa, Bauchi, Borno, Kebbi, Jigawa, and at least two-thirds of the Northern voting space. He must figure out how to do this in seven months.
Four, Obi should educate his supporters that verbal abuses and diatribes on opposing voices don’t make good friends. They turn people off. You may hear some of those vile voices after reading this article. There are very many people who are open to listening to Obi. Millions of Nigerians are sick-and-tired of status quo politics and politicians. Millions don’t care where their pPesident comes from or what God he worships. Irate and rabid supporters many times shut the valves of support and friendship. It may be a long shot, but Obi has a chance. I’m watching how he will pull it off.
We all know that nothing else is presently in Nigerian politicians’ fervid focus but 2023. Nine months away, the regime of the President, Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, will end. Candidates are butting heads to succeed him. A roiling jostle for the control of Aso-Rock is ongoing. The unrelenting hankering for power among political groupies is loud. Movements have morphed into coalition of political assemblages. Talks to seize power and control of the central government continue behind closed doors as Nigeria treads a rough road ahead into the future. Who wins? Prognosticators may not be accurate. Political prophets will lie as usual. Consult your Ouija board. Consult your oracle. Let them speak in their tenebrific voices. What becomes of Nigeria is uncertain. Are you already dreaming that your man will be sworn-in as President? Quit dreaming! The road ahead will be rough. Who becomes President no one knows except God in heaven who alone rules in the affairs of men and nations.
A coalition of stakeholders from the North-East region in the ruling All Progressives Congress have asked the party to pick the running mate of the party’s presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, from the North Central.
The stakeholders said this would not only enable the party to win the 2023 presidential election but help bring to the fore the party’s respect for fairness, equity and justice.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting in Abuja on Sunday, the National Coordinator of North East APC Stakeholders Coalition, Abba Suleiman, described the demand by its counterparts from the North West to be considered for the vice presidential candidate position as a “gross display of insensitivity to the relevance of other regions in the scheme of things in the party”.
He said, “The North West Region had been within the corridor of power in the last seven years of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, and for such demand to be made indeed speak volume of gross insensitivity.
“It is the considered view of stakeholders in the North East that it would only be fair and just if the vice-presidential slot goes to the North Central, given the numerous contributions of the region to the growth and development of the party.
“The stakeholders must come to terms with the fact that the North Central region hasn’t had a shot at the highest level of governance since the return of democracy in 1999. This time has presented that unique opportunity that must be utilized in the party’s best interest.
“The North-West APC Stakeholders must also realize that the overarching objective of the party is to secure a landslide victory at the polls, and if that is indeed the case, would it make any sense if a region that has been represented adequately in the last ten years, would also demand the vice-presidential slot”.
“Unless the stakeholders of our great party in the North West want us to believe that the North Central is not deserving of producing the vice-presidential candidate hence the demand for the vice-presidential slot.
“The stakeholders of the APC in the North East wish to use this medium to call on the leadership of our great party to ensure justice and fairness by providing that the vice presidential slot is given to the North Central.”
The publication of the personal particulars of candidates for the 2023 elections has been followed by animated discussions among Nigerians on social media
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Friday, published the particulars of candidates for the 2023 general elections.
The publication has been followed by animated discussions among Nigerians on social media on the academic credentials of some of the presidential candidates.
In the front burner of the discussions are questions around why the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, provided no information on his primary and secondary education.
Stating his occupation as “POLITICIAN,” the 70 years old APC National Leader claimed he obtained a B.Sc degree in Business and Administration from Chicago State University on June 22, 1979 before participating in the compulsory national youth service from November 12, 1982.
Although not seen by PREMIUM TIMES among Mr Tinubu’s published particulars at the INEC office, he swore to an affidavit that his certificates are missing.
“I went on self-exile from October 1994 to October 1998. When I returned I discovered that all my property, including all the documents relating to my qualifications and my certificates in respect of paragraph three above, were looted by unknown persons.
“My house was a target of series of searches by various security agents from the time the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was forced to adjourn following the military takeover of government of 17th November 1993,” the two-term former governor of Lagos State claimed in the court affidavit.
Some Nigerians want to know more about Mr Tinubu’s past than what he revealed to INEC.
Similar concerns were raised over his background when he contested for governor in 1999 and 2003. The late human rights lawyer, Gani Fawehinmi filed a suit asking the courts to compel the police to prosecute Mr Tinubu for perjury and forgery after a petition accused him of those offences in his filings with INEC in 1999.
After the Supreme Court dismissed the suit on the ground that Mr Tinubu had immunity as governor against being prosecuted in court, the Lagos State House of Assembly investigated the matter and absolved Mr Tinubu of the charge of gross misconduct.
Mr Tinubu is considered by many political commentators as the candidate to beat in the 2023 presidential race, the reason for the intense public attention on his candidature.
The former Lagos governor’s spokesperson, Tunde Rahman, did not respond to calls to his phone lines at the time of filing this report when this reporter tried to seek further clarifications on the issue.
PREMIUM TIMES scrutiny of the published documents by INEC picked up a similar thing about two or more candidates.
Despite not being a novice in the contest for president, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, also has a few questions raised about his academic credentials.
Mr Abubakar, who served as vice president from 1999 to 2007, will be hoisting the PDP presidential ticket for the second time in 2023. He had lost to President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 election.
Mr Abubakar also did not provide information on his primary education. The
1965 West Africa School Certificate (WASC) result presented by the 75 years old candidate identified the student as Siddiq Abubakar. He also holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from Anglia Ruskin University in the United Kingdom.
Before joining politics, Mr Abubakar worked with the Nigeria Custom Service until he retired from the agency in 1989 at the rank of Deputy Director.
Mr Abubakar’s records show that he attended Jada Primary School, Adamawa State, but that information is missing in his published biodata by the INEC.
“Well, I think it is INEC that you should be making those enquiries to. Whatever it is that they published was not in my hands,” Paul Ibe, a spokesperson to Mr Abubakar told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday.
“I don’t know what was submitted to INEC and what was not. So INEC is in the best position to know what it received and what it did not receive,” he said when asked about lack of information on the candidate’s early education.
His running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, also did not state his primary education in the published documents.
The two candidates are being tipped to give the APC and PDP candidates a run for their money. Unlike Messrs Tinubu and Atiku, Mr Kwankwaso provided full information on his academic credentials.
He bagged his first leaving certificate in 1968 and his secondary school certificate in 1975.
Mr Kwankwaso, 66, has Craft Training Certificate, ND, HND, Post Graduate Diploma, M.Sc and Ph.D, which he recently concluded.
He attached a copy of his provisional Ph.D certificate with his thesis on Design and Construction of Irrigation System in Northern Nigeria.
Before resigning in 1991 to join politics, Mr Kwankwaso had worked at Water Resources and Engineering Construction Agency (WRECA) for over 15 years.
Among the four top contenders in the race, he is the only candidate who has served as governor, lawmaker and minister.
Much celebrated in his huge social media fan base, Peter Obi is the candidate of Labour Party (LP) which he joined last month after quitting the PDP.
With a knack for quoting figures/statistics at every given opportunity in any public discourse, the two term governor of Anambra, identified himself as a politician and business executive.
Mr Obi attended primary, secondary and tertiary schools between 1973 and 1984.
Before joining politics, he had worked at Fidelity Bank in Lagos, but he did not stay the years in the INEC published documents.
Mr Obi, 61, is the youngest among the top four presidential candidates.
