₦airaland Forum

Seyi Makinde is A Visionarian with The Plan to Boost Nigeria’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)

Nigeria today is standing on the brink of a new era, the need for a leader with a proven track record of economic transformation has never been more critical in our nation’s history. Governor Seyi Makinde, who has successfully turned around the fortunes of Oyo State, is ready to apply his visionary leadership to the entire nation. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) will not just grow—it will thrive, driving sustainable development, job creation, and a better quality of life for all Nigerians.

1. Comprehensive Tax Reform and Expansion

Governor Seyi Makinde will introduce sweeping tax reforms that will bring more people and businesses into the tax net. Just as he did in Oyo State, where revenue grew exponentially, his administration will ensure a fair and progressive tax system. By formalizing the informal sector and cracking down on tax evasion, we will create a more inclusive and equitable system that supports national growth.

2. Harnessing Technology for Transparency and Efficiency

Engineer (current governor) Seyi Makinde will roll out nationwide automated tax collection systems, leveraging technology to reduce leakages and enhance transparency. His administration will introduce digital platforms for e-filing and payment systems, making it easier for businesses and individuals to comply with tax regulations. With innovations like blockchain technology, every Naira collected will be accounted for, ensuring that our resources are used to build a prosperous Nigeria.

3. Empowering the Agricultural Sector for Revenue Growth

Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential will be fully realized under Makinde’s leadership. Drawing from his success in revitalizing Oyo’s agriculture, he will expand agro-processing zones and enhance agricultural value chains nationwide. This strategy will increase productivity, create jobs, boost exports, and significantly raise the nation’s IGR.

4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Infrastructure Development

Makinde understands the power of collaboration. His administration will foster strong public-private partnerships to develop critical infrastructure such as roads, railways, and energy projects. These partnerships will attract investments, stimulate economic activity, and increase government revenue, just as they did in Oyo State.

5. Diversifying the Economy Beyond Oil

Makinde’s presidency will focus on diversifying Nigeria’s economy, reducing our reliance on oil, and developing other key sectors like technology, tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy. By supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and encouraging innovation, we will create new revenue streams that will fuel our nation’s growth.

6. Enhancing Government Efficiency

Corruption and wasteful spending have plagued Nigeria for too long. Makinde’s administration will implement stringent measures to curb these issues, ensuring that every Naira spent contributes to national development. Through transparent budgeting and efficient allocation of resources, the savings will be redirected to revenue-generating projects that benefit all Nigerians.

7. Attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Makinde will make Nigeria the investment destination of choice by streamlining regulations, reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, and improving security. A stable and business-friendly environment will attract foreign direct investment, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and increasing our nation’s IGR.

8. Investing in Human Capital Development

Makinde knows that the true wealth of a nation lies in its people. His administration will invest heavily in education, skills development, and youth empowerment. Nigeria’s economy will flourish, leading to increased revenue and a brighter future for all by creating a skilled workforce and encouraging entrepreneurship across all economic levels of our nation.

9. Monetizing Government Assets

Under Makinde’s leadership, Nigeria will monetize underutilized government assets through privatization and concessions. This strategy will generate immediate revenue while ensuring that these assets are managed efficiently for long-term national benefit for all Nigerians.

10. Supporting the Digital Economy

The digital economy is the future, and Makinde will ensure that Nigeria is at the forefront. By supporting tech startups, e-commerce, and fintech, we will unlock new opportunities for revenue generation. Big data analytics will be utilized to track economic activities, ensuring that all taxable entities contribute their fair share to the nation’s treasury for the benefit of all Nigerians.

With Seyi Makinde as President, Nigeria will experience a resurrection in economic growth and development. His proven strategies will not only increase our Internally Generated Revenue but will also create a more prosperous, equitable, and united Nigeria. Together, we will rise to new heights, unlocking the full potential of our great nation for the benefit of every Nigerian.

Signed:

*Comr. Ayodeji Adeyemi*
Concerned Nigerian for the emancipation of a united and prosperous Nigeria where all citizens can live in peace without fear.

Harvesting Prosperity: Seyi Makinde's Agricultural Revolution and the Path to a Thriving Nigeria

Comrade Ayodeji Adeyemi is writing from Ibadan, Oyo state.

Fellow Nigerians, great patriots of our beloved nation,

Today, I come before you with a message of hope, a message of progress, and a call to action. As we look forward to the 2027 presidential elections, we have the chance to elect a leader who has proven time and time again that he has what it takes to steer our great country to prosperity. That leader is none other than Governor Seyi Makinde.

Governor Makinde has shown us what true leadership looks like in Oyo State. Under his watch, the state has transformed into a beacon of progress, particularly in the agricultural sector—a sector that is the very backbone of our nation. Imagine what he could do for Nigeria if given the opportunity to lead on a national scale.

In Oyo State, Governor Makinde took our farmlands and turned them into thriving agricultural hubs. He revitalized farm settlements, equipped them with modern facilities, and created environments where our youths can see a future in farming. Doing all this is not just about growing crops; it’s about growing our economy, creating jobs, and ensuring that every Nigerian has food on their table.

Governor Makinde understands that to build a prosperous Nigeria, we must empower our farmers, the backbone of our economy. He has invested heavily in the construction and rehabilitation of rural roads, ensuring that our farmers can transport their produce to markets without suffering post-harvest losses. This is the kind of leadership that thinks ahead, plans meticulously, and delivers results.

But the achievements of Governor Makinde in Oyo State are not limited to agriculture. He has shown us what it means to have a government that truly serves the people—whether it's through improving education, healthcare, or infrastructure, he has made Oyo State a model of good governance in Nigeria.

Now, my fellow Nigerians, imagine this same visionary leader at the helm of our great nation. Imagine a Nigeria where our agricultural sector is not just revitalized, but revolutionized; where every state experiences the kind of growth and development we have seen in Oyo. Imagine a Nigeria where the youth are empowered, where jobs are created, and where every citizen has a fair shot at prosperity.

Governor Seyi Makinde is a leader who listens, who understands the challenges we face, and who has the courage and the competence to address them. He has shown that he can bring people together, regardless of tribe, religion, or tongue. His leadership in Oyo State has been inclusive, transparent, and effective—the very qualities we need in the President of Nigeria.

As we approach 2027, let us rally behind a leader who has the vision, the integrity, and the experience to take Nigeria to greater heights. Let us support Governor Seyi Makinde for President, because with him, we can build a Nigeria that works for everyone.

Together, we can make history. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and generations to come. Let us stand with Governor Seyi Makinde and take this great nation to the pinnacle of prosperity and peace.

Thank you, and may God bless Nigeria!

Join the Movement for Seyi Makinde, President 2027—Transforming Nigeria Through Education

Comrade Ayodeji Adeyemi is writing from FCT - Abuja.

Fellow Nigerians,

Today, I write to you not just as a concerned citizen, but as someone deeply invested in the future of our great nation. We have come to a critical juncture in our history, a time when the choices we make will determine whether our children will inherit a land of promise or one plagued by the failures of the past. Our education system, the very backbone of our development, has suffered from decades of neglect. But there is hope. There is a leader who has proven that with vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment, we can turn the tide. That leader is Governor Seyi Makinde.

In Oyo State, Governor Makinde has shown us what is possible when education is given the priority it deserves. Under his leadership, education is not just a privilege for the few but a right for every child. He took bold steps to eliminate school fees, making education free and accessible for all. He invested heavily in our schools, ensuring that our children learn in environments that are conducive to success. He recruited thousands of teachers, ensuring that our students receive the guidance and mentorship they need to thrive.

Governor Makinde did not stop there. He introduced digital learning, bringing our children into the 21st century, and ensured that even the most disadvantaged among us had access to bursaries and scholarships. In Oyo State, education is no longer a dream deferred—it is a reality.

But my fellow Nigerians, the work is far from done. The challenges we face as a nation are immense. Too many of our children are still out of school. Too many of our graduates lack the skills needed to compete in a global economy. Too many of our schools remain in disrepair. We cannot afford to leave the future of our children, and by extension, the future of Nigeria, in the hands of those who have failed to act.

That is why I urge you, every Nigerian who believes in the power of education to transform lives, to join the movement for Seyi Makinde for President in 2027. With his proven track record in Oyo State, we can lift Nigeria out of the abyss of educational ignorance and illiteracy. We can build a nation where every child, regardless of tribe, tongue or religion has the opportunity to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

Governor Seyi Makinde has the vision, the experience, and the heart to lead Nigeria into a new era of educational excellence. But he cannot do it alone. He needs your support. He needs your voice. Together, we can make history. Together, we can build a Nigeria where education is the foundation upon which we build a brighter future.

So I call on you, patriots of this great nation, to stand with Seyi Makinde. Let us work together to bring about the change that Nigeria desperately needs. Let us give our children the future they deserve. Join the Seyi Makinde for President 2027 movement, and let us transform Nigeria, one school, one child, one future at a time.

Together, we can make it happen!

Nigeri is a country weighed down by years of poor leadership and pervasive corruption, where Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State stands out as a beacon of what genuine governance can achieve. As we look toward the 2027 elections, it's crucial that we consider the potential of a leader who has not only made promises but has consistently delivered on them.

Governor Makinde’s leadership in Oyo State has been transformative, setting a new standard in a nation that desperately needs a break from the status quo. Under his watch, Oyo State has seen significant progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall governance. These aren't just empty claims—they are visible, tangible improvements that have positively impacted the lives of the people.

Take infrastructure, for example. Roads that were once nearly impossible to navigate have been rehabilitated, now serving as vital links that connect communities and boost economic activities. In education, the investments made by the Makinde administration are helping to mold the minds of our future leaders, ensuring that Oyo State’s graduates are not only educated but well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to society. The healthcare sector, too, has experienced a revival, with better facilities and improved access to quality care.

But beyond these achievements, what truly distinguishes Makinde is his approach to leadership. He’s a leader who listens and engages with the people, making informed decisions that reflect the needs and aspirations of his constituents. His administration is a rare example of accountability in a political landscape where transparency is often in short supply.

If this model of governance is scaled to the national level, Nigeria stands to benefit in multiple ways:

- Infrastructure: We can expect robust development across the country, leading to enhanced connectivity and economic growth.

- Education and Healthcare: A revitalized system that empowers citizens and improves the overall quality of life.

- Economic Empowerment: Job creation and poverty reduction, which will help close the gap of inequality.

- Security: A safer, more secure nation where the rule of law prevails.

- Good Governance: A government that is transparent, accountable, and truly serves the people.

Nigeria is at a critical juncture, and we need a leader who understands the challenges we face and has a proven track record of addressing them. Governor Seyi Makinde is that leader. His success in Oyo State offers a blueprint for national transformation.

As we approach 2027, it’s time to consider a leader who has the vision, competence, and integrity to guide Nigeria into a new era of prosperity. Governor Seyi Makinde has demonstrated that he has what it takes to change the current state of affairs in our country. Let’s take this opportunity to bring about the change we desperately need.

Comrade Ayodeji Adeyemi is writing from Abuja under the pen name of Broda Ayo.

#SeyiMakinde2027
#LeadershipForChange

Fellow Nigerians,

At this pivotal moment in our nation’s journey, the cry for capable and compassionate leadership echoes louder than ever. We have endured challenges, faced uncertainty, and navigated the rough waters of governance. But as we look forward to 2027, hope is dawning on the horizon for us in Nigeria. That hope is embodied in the person of Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State.

Restoring the Nation’s Peace and Security

Governor Seyi Makinde has distinguished himself as a leader who not only understands the needs of his people but has the vision and the resolve to meet those needs. His administration in Oyo State has already laid down comprehensive and strategic plans aimed at restoring peace, enhancing security, and improving the standard of living for all. These aren’t just empty promises—they are actionable blueprints designed to uplift not only Oyo State but the entire nation.

Nigeria is at a tipping point. Under Governor (later President) Seyi Makinde’s leadership, the potential for peace and prosperity is within reach. He envisions a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of tribe, religion, or social status, can live without fear, with access to opportunities that guarantee a better tomorrow.

The First 100 Days: A Fresh Start for All Nigerians

Imagine a Nigeria where the turmoil and hardships of the past are replaced by a renewed sense of purpose, security, and hope. This is not mere fantasy thinking. Within the first 100 days of Engr. Seyi Makinde’s administration, Nigerians will begin to feel the impact of his policies—policies crafted to bring immediate relief and long-term prosperity.

We won’t have to endure the kind of struggles we faced in the first 100 days of the current administration. Instead, with Engr. Seyi Makinde at the helm of affairs, we will breathe a fresh, comforting air that signals the beginning of a new era—an era where Nigerians can hold their heads high and look forward to a brighter future.

Don’t Let History Repeat Itself: Seize This Moment

Nigeria stands at a crossroads, and history has offered us a second chance. We missed the opportunity with MKO Abiola, but we must not miss it with Engr. Seyi Makinde. His leadership presents a golden opportunity to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams—a Nigeria where peace, unity, and prosperity are not just aspirations but everyday realities.

This is a call to every Nigerian, from the streets of Lagos to the villages of Borno. It is time to rally behind a leader who has the vision, the courage, and the wisdom to lead us into a future filled with hope and possibilities. We must not allow this opportunity to pass us by. We cannot afford to miss this train of progress.

A Call to Action: Stand with Engr. Seyi Makinde

As a fellow Nigerian and as someone who deeply cares about our nation’s future, I urge you to join this movement. Let us unite under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde and support his mission to transform Nigeria into a nation where every citizen can thrive. The time for change is now, and together, we can make it happen.

Nigeria’s strength lies in our unity, and our future depends on the choices we make today.

Written by Comrade Ayodeji Adeyemi (@Real_BrodaAyo) writing under the pen name of (Bròdá Ayò), from Abuja.

Governor Seyi Makinde's Success Stories in Oyo State: A Blueprint for National Transformation.
Olarinwanju Kadiri is writing from Osun State.
Since assuming office in 2019, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has embarked on a transformative journey, revolutionizing the state's infrastructure, education, healthcare, economy, security, and governance.
His remarkable success stories in Oyo State is a testament that is inspiring the younger generation and serve as a blueprint for national development and transformation.
Between 2019 to date, the Oyo State Governor, His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde, has made series of achievements, including providing and promoting investment opportunities for both local and foreign investors. Some of these achievements are:
Infrastructure Development:
Governor Makinde's administration has constructed and rehabilitated more than 1,000 kilometer of roads, upgraded transportation systems, built bridges and flyovers, which have enhanced connectivity and improved economic growth in the state.
Education Reform:
In Education, Governor Makinde in the past five years, introduced free education, renovated schools, and implemented technology-driven learning, thereby improving access to quality education for residents and citizens of Oyo State.
Healthcare Revolution:
It is on record that, since the inception of his administration in 2019, Governor Makinde has upgraded healthcare facilities, recruited medical personnel, and introduced health insurance schemes, which has reduced infant and maternal mortality rates in Oyo State.
Economic Empowerment:
He supported SMEs, created jobs, and invested in agriculture and tourism, thereby stimulating economic growth in the state.
Security and Justice:
He improved security infrastructure, reformed the justice system, and supported community policing with the creation of Amotekun, in order to ensure a safer Oyo State.
Good Governance:
Governor Makinde promoted transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, in order to strengthen institutions and the rule of law in the state.
Governor Makinde's success stories in Oyo State demonstrate his capacity to replicate similar success at the national level.
His leadership style, vision, and commitment to good governance make him an ideal candidate to transform Nigeria in 2027.
If elected as President of Nigeria in 2027, Governor Makinde's success stories in Oyo State shall be a blueprint for Nigeria’s development in the following ways.
- Improve infrastructure and connectivity
- Enhance education and healthcare systems
- Stimulate economic growth and empowerment
- Ensure security and justice
- Promote good governance and accountability
Nigerians deserve a leader like Governor Seyi Makinde who has demonstrated the ability to deliver.
Governor Makinde's success stories in Oyo State make him the ideal presidential candidate to transform Nigeria and bring about the needed reforms and development in the country.

On this Special Day of Eid-il-Fitr, I wish to convey my unreserved felicitations and solidarity with all my Friends, Associates, Relatives and all the Muslim Ummah nation-wide for successfully going through and completing this year's Ramadan Fasting.

We give all gratitude, honour and glory to Allah, Subhanahu Wata'Allah, for His Compassion, Benevolence and Rahamah.

It is from Him we all come and it is to Him we shall all return. It is from Him and Him alone, we seek all favours and redress.

I pray, may the spirit and virtues of submission, sacrifice, dedication and deep faith to Allah which guided our Fasting and Ibadah throughout the month of Ramadan live with us long after the celebrations.

As a nation in transition, this is yet another unique opportunity for all Nigerians to put their heads together to rededicate themselves in the advancement and promotion of the ideals and core values of tolerance, mutual respect and accommodation that are essential for building and strengthing the fabric and foundation of nationhood.

Other countries have done it, we can do it.

Eid Mubarak

Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali

SPECIAL EASTER MESSAGE

As Nigerians join the rest of the world to rejoice during this Easter season, we are filled with immense gratitude to God for sparing our lives to be part of this year's Easter Celebrations.

On this auspicious occasion, I offer my heartfelt prayer for our nation and our people. We pray, may God guide us towards peace, prosperity, and unity.

Let's remember that the path to greatness is never easy. Just as gold must pass through the furnace to shine, Nigeria, just like other emerging nations, is also undergoing its own trials which surely we shall overcome.

Undoubtedly, through perseverance and determination, we shall emerge stronger and more radiant than ever before.

In these challenging times, let us continue to keep faith in the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His commitment to Nigeria's progress is unwavering, and with our steadfast support, we can elevate our nation's standing on the global stage.

Let us all remain steadfast in our pursuit of a better Nigeria. Together, we can overcome any and all obstacles and build a future filled with promise and prosperity.

With best wishes to all !

Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali

Thursday 31st March 2023

National Secretary,
New Nigeria People's Party
National Secretariat,
No 11 Mahatma Gandhi Street, Area 11, Garki,
Abuja

Sir,

LETTER OF STEPPING ASIDE FROM THE POST OF NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, NEW NIGERIA PEOPLE'S PARTY (NNPP).

I am pleased to write and convey to you that I have Stepped Aside as the National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) with effect from today, Friday 31st March, 2023.
2. Following keenly the events before, during and after the recent General elections held on 25th February and 18th March 2023, it is my humble view that our party, the NNPP, has a great future and potential to emerge as the leading political force that is capable of winning the Presidential and all other elections in 2027.
3. To achieve this, we must think ahead and plan ahead. And the time is now. Our great party, the New Nigeria People's Party will require major and fundamental structural and systemic changes and reorganization at all levels of the party in order to strengthen its base, improve its operational capabilities and generally enhance its competitive advantage over and above all the other 17 political parties on the INEC nominal roll.
4. Since, we as a party, all believe in and aspire to bring in a better Nigeria though the astute leadership of our Leader, His Excellency, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, I believe, no sacrifice is to much from each and every one of us.
5. I am convinced, this change must start from me. This is precisely why I have decided, with all sense of responsibility, to step aside from the office of the National Chairman of our party to give room for fresh hands to take over and build upon and improve on our modest contributions. I wish, I have done more.
6. By this letter, I also wish to inform our National Leader and Presidential Candidate, His Excellency, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and our entire members nationwide that I am still and will remain a bonafide member of our party and I pledge to serve and offer support to our Party at all levels to ensure the continued progress and advancement of our party.
7. I wish to also extend my special appreciation to our National Leader Sen Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso who in the last three years, offered me unique and rare opportunities to serve in various capacities from the formative stages of The National Movement (TNM) and after the merger between the TNM and the old NNPP was ultimately consummated. This rare privilege, I can not take for granted.
8. I wish to therefore extend my special and sincere appreciation to our National Leader, His Excellency Sen Engr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso Ph. D. FNSE, our amiable Vice Presidential Candidate Bishop Isaac Idahosa, our elder and Chairman Board of Trustees (BOT) Chief Boniface Aniebonam, my Brother the Secretary of BOT, Elder Buba Galadima, members of the National Working Committee, our Gubernatorial and National and States Houses of Assembly Members and all our members nationwide for your goodwill, support and encouragement during my sojourn as National Chairman of our great party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). All honour and glory belongs to God and God alone who makes everything possible.

I Pray, May God Bless and Reward You All With His Bountiful Mercies and Blessings.

Long Live the New Nigeria People's Party.

Long Live The Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Signed

Prof Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali
National Chairman
New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP)

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His Excellency, Sen Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso Ph. D. FSNE
National Leader and
Presidential Candidate of NNPP.

Elder Chief Boniface Aniebonam,
Chairman, Board of Trustees NNPP.

Engr Buba Galadima
Secretary,
Board of Trustees, NNPP.

TEXT OF A PRESS CONFERENCE BY PROF RUFA'I AHMED ALKALI, NATIONAL CHAIRMAN NEW NIGERIA PEOPLES PARTY( NNPP), HELD AT THE NATIONAL SECRETARIAT, ABUJA ON MONDAY 5, 2022.

Gentlemen of the Press

I am pleased to welcome you once again to the National Headquarters of our great Party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) at this auspicious time for this Press briefing.

2. It has been the tradition of our Party to regularly engage and interface with the media in Nigeria in order to keep you updated on recent political events and developments around the country especially as they affect our Party, the NNPP.

3. As you are all aware we have less than 90 days to the Presidential election. And I am also sure you are aware our Presidential Candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso unveiled his Blueprint more than three weeks ago on 13th November 2022 tagged: My Pledges To You - a social contract with all Nigerians.

4. The Blueprint was a clear and detailed Plan of Action of our Presidential candidate, Sen Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with a clear commitment and determination to transform Nigeria and place Nigeria in it its rightful place as a leading African power in the comity of nations.

5. Gentlemen of the Press, we are pleased to inform you that in the last few months, the NNPP has grown from strength to strength attracting highly respectable Nigerias and as a national movement we have also been drawing even more mass support nationwide.

6. We therefore wish to assure all Nigerias that the long awaited Third Force has finally arrived. There is no doubt about the fact that Nigerians are tired of excuses and the culture of blame games, which is the pastime of the current Government in Nigeria. From the Blueprint of His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, it is very clear that the Government of NNPP, which insha Allah will become a reality on May 29, 2023, is prepared to pull our people out of the excruciating poverty which the APC Government has pushed them into.

7. Both the Party (NNPP) and the Presidential Candidate, His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso remain focused on the need to rescue Nigeria and Nigerians from clutches of hunger, deprivation and hopelessness. It is not a coincidence that those who pushed our dear country into the category of "poverty capital" are bent on distracting us from our focus to bring back the glory of the past, rather it is a well-orchestrated move to ensure that our people remain in bondage even after the 2023 General elections. Orchestrated because it is coordinated and sustained .

8. The moves to distract His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso have taken many shapes, starting with the falsehood that he is in the race as a front for another Candidate. When that failed, they said he is in the race to divide the vote of a Candidate. Then came another narrative that he was under pressure by a some regional leaders to step for their preferred Candidate. We wish to state categorically that all these are lies from the pit of hell. Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is in the race to win the February 25, 2022 Presidential election to bring his experience in the various offices he had held for the benefit of Nigerians.

9. The latest in the efforts to distract our Presidential Candidate is the "endorsement" of the Presidential Candidate by a group called the Northern Leaders Consultative Forum (NLCF). As a political Party that believes in the democratic right of people to support a Candidate of their choice, it us also our right not to be dragged into hatchet job.

10. The group is unknown to us. And there was never a time we had any interface with the group. As a matter of fact, some politicians led by Former Speaker, Yakubu Dogara and former SGF, Babaachir Lawal came to us, under a Christian religion banner, claiming marginalisation by their Party, APC. Nobody ever mentioned any Northern Leaders Consultative Forum to us. However, we noticed some elements of insincerity in their activities. For the NLCF to accuse our Party and His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of not laying before Nigerians "their action plan 90 days to elections" clearly showed that the group was working to predetermined answer". The whole world watched it live when Sen. Dr. Rabiu on November 13, 2022 unveiled his Blueprint MY PLEDGES TO YOU. THE RMK 2023 BLUEPRINT

11. Is it not laughable that the group will accuse NNPP that has structures of Party administrations in all the Wards, Local Governments, States, Zonel and National of not being widely representative enough.

12. We are not here to join issues with them. We saw through the shenanigans right from the time they came to us as a Christian religion organisation but all of a sudden transmuted into the NLCF. One thing is clear, we at the NNPP will not play religious or ethnic card. The problems of Nigeria requires serious attention devoid of any sentiment.

13. It is on record that our Presidential candidate has attended every gathering either as town hall meetings or debates that had a National coloration and not regional or religion, to let Nigerians assess his qualities

14. For us in the NNPP, the bedrock of 2023 Presidential election is integrity, capacity, competence and experience. By the grace of God our Presidential Candidate posseses all these attributes in abundance and he remains the Candidate to beat. The main reason for these sustained efforts to undermine his Candidature.

15. We thank the media, as we charge them to interrogate all the Presidential Candidates as we inch closely to the 2023 Presidential election.

16. The NNPP would engage with any political party sincerely to birth a New Nigeria and would not in any way coerce or blackmail that party to achieve our goal


Thank you.


Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali
National Chairman.

Johnchuks Onuanyim, Abuja.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition party in the country, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have concluded plans to compromise the 2023 general election by buying up voter’s card from citizens, the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) has alleged.

The NNPP led by the former governor of Kano State, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, says it has credible intelligence, which suggests that there is a well coordinated plan by the two major political parties, the ruling APC and the opposition PDP, to illegal procure voter’s card (PVCs) from their registered owners towards the 2023 general election.

An inside source within the NNPP says this desperate act of electoral malpractise by both the APC and the PDP came on the heels of the realisation by the parties that INEC and the security agencies are making stringent arrangements to curtail vote-buying and the smuggling in of fake result sheets as was hitherto done in the previous elections.

According to the source, the new Electoral Act that has allowed the use of BVAS and the electronic transfer of votes from the polling centres coupled with the increasing unpopularity of both the ruling APC and the main opposition PDP and their presidential candidates among Nigerians, have given the two parties something to think about.

The NNPP further alleges that it is getting clearer by the day that Nigerians having tested both the APC and the PDP for 8 years and 16 years respectively, and seeing them both fail the country, have decided to make a major electoral decision to jettison the two parties in the 2023 presidential election.

The NNPP allegation is coming a couple of days after it was reported by the media, the arrest of a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Aminu Ali Shana, with 367 suspected Permanent Voters Cards, PVC in Kano State.

The NNPP National Leadership therefore call on the INEC, security agencies and the electorate to be on guard against this nefarious act of these political parties and their candidates.

Press Statement

7 October 2022

NNPP Strategizes ahead of the 2023 General Elections; Calls on Nigerians to rally around the party on the Journey to Rebuild Nigeria.

The National Leadership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party - led by the National Chairman, Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali and the Chairmen of all State Chapters of the party met in Abuja to appraise the party’s national elections campaign framework. The 5-hour long meeting session ended with the following resolutions:

1. The New Nigeria Peoples Party acknowledges the importance of the role of women in the stability of our country’s fragile yet relentless democracy. We are glad and grateful for the overwhelming support they have been giving the party. NNPP also commends the various Youth support groups for their support as it prepares for elections in 2023. Your participation is a testament to the possibility of a New Nigeria that is about to be birthed by the NNPP’s Presidential Candidate, His Excellency Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in next year's general elections.

2. We are aware of the frantic attempts by opposition parties to muzzle the rising popularity of our great party NNPP and her Presidential Candidate, His Excellency Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The Party appreciates your fears as you should rightfully be, but our ascension cannot be daunted by frivolous machinations. NNPP implores you to join it in efforts to restore Nigeria to its rightful position because NNPP needs all hands on deck as we continue to embark on the mission of rescuing Nigeria.

3. Contrary to the malicious rumor in circulation by opponents of our great party, NNPP will contest all available seats in the Executive and Legislative arms of our Government all over Nigeria. Our Presidential Candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is a strong contender in the 2023 presidential elections. NNPP urges Nigerians to disregard any rumours about Senator Kwankwaso stepping-down. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is in the race to win and will never step down for anyone, not today and not in the future.

4. NNPP wishes to reiterate that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is the most qualified Presidential Candidate for the 2023 General Election, both in terms of educational versatility and his impeccable public service record. He passed through the Nigerian educational curriculum, obtained his first degree and Ph.D. in Water Engineering, and joined the Kano State Water Resources and Engineering Construction Agency where he rose to the position of Principal (Water) Engineer before making his entry into politics where he served At various levels of governance, leaving undeniable achievements to his legacy. His excellent achievements in Kano state know no rivalry to date. He is the only Presidential contender prepared with the wherewithal to secure and advance the wheels of progress and development in Nigeria.

Finally, he meeting stated emphatically that the NNPP is well-equipped for the arduous journey to restore our great nation Nigeria. The leadership of the party under the able navigation of the National Chairman; Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali is waxing stronger by the day. The meeting therefore passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of the party under the leadership of the Party underage leadership of Prof. Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali. The position of our great party is hinged on the care for human life and happiness, not their exploitation and extinction because NNPP believes that this is the first and only legitimate object of any good and innovative government. Therefore, we are maintaining that the worth of every state through its governments is the worth of its citizens. We again call on Nigerians to join the NNPP and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in our eternal quest to ensure that all Nigerian are counted worthy in the country they call home.

Signed:

Office of the National Chairman
New Nigeria Peoples Party.

I salute all the men, women, children, members of the Armed Forces and paramilitary formations, the Nigerian Union of Teachers, the Nigerian Medical Association, the Nigerian Union of Journalists and all vital public and private sector institutions, agencies, ministries and parastatals of Nigeria on the joyous celebration of the anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.

On behalf of the entire leadership and membership of the NNPP, our presidential candidate Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and his running mate Bishop Isaac Idahosa, all governorship candidates, Senatorial, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly candidates, I send warm greetings to everyone celebrating Nigeria today.

On this national day, we join you in celebrating this brand new chapter in the history of our great country.  From independence, we Nigerians have been standing strong in solidarity with our families and loved ones. We are thankful that democracy has deepened in Nigeria, and the race to create a greater country is in motion in the fields of the arts, culture, sports, and sciences.

Nigeria is a nation that believes that the liberties and freedom of society must be enshrined for equality to prevail. Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress are the values that bind our hope and aspirations as a country united across the borders of religion, tongues, and tribes - our diversity is our strength.

From the North to South, East to West, great Nigerian minds have contributed to our progress as a nation with their dexterity and endless sacrifices. We are a nation rich in shared history and values. We have stood together through trying times in the past and pursued peaceful co-existence. We are bounded in unity by our families, friends, and loved ones.

Nigerians, we are aware of your pains because it is a collective one, our social life is in dire straits and it feels like the storm that is raging across the country will engulf us all, but we call on you all to hold on to hope, never let your belief in a shining new Nigeria wane under the pressure of tyranny, and oppression that has come to be the order of the day. This is our promise to you; Nigeria will shine again!

On the occasion of this October 1 independence day celebrations, we call on all Nigerians to rally around the New Nigeria Peoples Party and our presidential candidate Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso on the journey to rebuilding and reclaiming Nigeria in 2023. NNPP is determined to restore hope and secure the lives and properties of Nigerians, let us work together to build a stronger nation.

As we look forward to a new dawn in Nigeria, I and all the leadership and membership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) join with you, Nigeria, and all our friends, families, and loved ones in Diaspora to celebrate another new beginning in the history of our great nation. 

Please, accept our heartfelt congratulations as we chant Happy Independence Day Nigeria!

Very, truly yours.


Prof. Rufa'i Ahmed Alkali
National Chairman
New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)

The attention
of the Leadership of the NNPP has been drawn to recent developments in the country as we move towards the 2023 General Elections. In line with their Time Table, INEC has released the list of candidates for the 2023 General Elections.

However, after careful perusal of the list, the NNPP observed that some of the names of the candidates on the list are no longer members of our party. Some of the mentioned candidates such as Sen. Ibrahim Shekarau have already withdrawn from the contest and have resigned from the party. Sen Shekaru has since joined another Political Party.

We wish to state that we have previously communicated this matter to the INEC Head Office as required by law and we have also within the ambit of the law, forwarded the names of the candidates nominated to replace those candidates who have voluntarily withdrawn their candidature and have also resigned from the party.

The affected constituencies are :

1. Kano Central Senatorial District;

2. Taraba South Senatorial District ;

3. Deputy Governorship Candidate for Yobe state; and

4. Portiskum Federal constituency.
 

Right now, we are doing everything possible within the provisions of the law to ensure that the names of our candidates who emerged through valid primary elections are allowed to participate in the 2023 General Elections. 


We wish to use this medium to appeal to all our great party’s candidates at all levels whose names were not included on the just-released list of candidates from INEC to remain calm and continue with their consultations and campaign efforts when the time comes.

Meanwhile, the Party will follow due process to ensure that their names are included in the INEC list as bonfire NNPP candidates to enable them contest in the forthcoming 2023 General Elections. 

Signed:

Professor Rufai Alkali
National Chairman
New Nigeria Peoples Party.

Today 1st of October

If Nigeria wasn't meant to exist as a country, God would not create me as a Nigerian, and I believe I can say the same for you. Ladies and gentlemen, Nigeria, is 61 years old today.
For 61 years, countless heroes of our nation have fought and strived against all odds for the existence and prosperity of our great nation, Nigeria. And I believe that the sacrifices that they made for our freedom wasn't and shouldn't be in vain.
For 61 years, countless young, vibrant men and women of our nation have fought and made the ultimate sacrifices for Nigeria’s continued existence. Go to the front lines, all the way from Borno, Zamfara, Kaduna, Adamawa, Benue, Yobe and to the Plateau in Jos, our brothers and sisters are gallantly standing guard, year in year out against the enemies of freedom and progress, and they weren't forced to do it - NO! They chose to fight for their country so that you and I wouldn't have to. So, that you and I can go about our normal lives, they came from all over the nation to fight! - the igbo from the East, the Yoruba from the South West, and the Hausa from the north, and they are making the ultimate sacrifices for our freedom every day!
And if you think that the best topic we have to talk about today is the topic of disunity and disintegration, then we should also talk about what we will tell the wives and mothers of the countless men that have died protecting this nation. Let us talk about the message we will take to their sons and daughters - that their daddies died for nothing. Then, we can laugh about how ungrateful we are.

Today, Nigeria is 61, we remember our honored dead, and we can guarantee that their sacrifice will never be in vain! We that believe that our future is tied to the future of our nation, those of us that know that when something is wrong with our country, we stand and fight to fix the wrong and to keep our nation prosperous, because we know that peace is not free! It is earned and not given, and to get it, you have to fight for it, not tuck tails and try to run away from your nation.

So, I call on all lovers of democracy, all those who know and believe that their stability is tied to the stability of their nation, all those who believe that the dark and trying times we are passing through as a nation today have come to pass and not to stay. Those of us that know that peace is not free and we have to earn it, those of us that have faith in the nation, that Nigeria will work, that we will prosper, and we will smile at the end. I challenge you to start rising and start championing the causes of our democracy, because we both know that only you and I can fix this nation, and nobody else. Because we both know that the future of Nigeria is tied to our future.

My Nigeria My Future. #MyNigeriaMyFuture

Happy Independence day Nigerians, God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and God bless us all!

My name is Ayo Adeyemi

And here's the link to the video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OX16X7asnw

OF SUNDAY IGBOHO, NNAMDI KANU, THE CALL FOR SEPARATION AND THE RISE OF THE NIGERIAN COMPATRIOTS.

Sunday Igboho started off on the right foot as a defender of the Yoruba interests on their lands but ended on the wrong foot when he became emboldened and started championing the cause for secession of the Yoruba from Nigeria.

Let us take note that the Nigerian government did not go after him when he was fighting killer Fulani herdsmen.

It became pertinent to limit his over - reach when he decided it was the right thing to do by calling for the break-off of the Yoruba from the Sovereign nation of Nigeria.

Sunday Igboho would have ended up as a true hero of the Yoruba had he championed the cause for a national dialogue.he would have been praised by all if he had pushed for a nationwide Elders / Stake-Holders' Consultation / Intervention across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

Instead, he choose to tow the path of Maazi Nnamdi Kanu of the South East by calling for the end of Nigeria as we all know it. This was the same path that late Odumegwu Ojukwu towed in the 1960s without due consultations with the elders of the land and which inevitably led to the loss of thousands of Igbo lives and wanton destruction of properties.

Sunday Igboho and Nnamdi Kanu missed the fundamental element of first approaching the issues affecting us as a nation with diplomacy and widespread consultation across board but instead chose to allow their emotions cloud their judgement thereby leading them to use their positions to influence insurrection, rebellion and an attempt to break the country to pieces.

Every man has the right to self-determination but that can only come to pass if all the parties involved come to a mutual roundtable agreement. The different ethnic tribes of Nigeria did not started together as enemies, it is therefore pertinent to make sure that we do not end up as enemies, for there can not be peace in any region if we forcefully separate as it is evident that we all share close borders and we've all inter-mingled and live amongst each other.

I personally do not approve of the evident bias of the current administration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, nonetheless, I will never allow my emotional outbursts to cloud my sense of reasoning. We have to learn to see through the maze that Nigeria is all we have. It is our heritage and those that are forcefully puting their tribesmen's agenda above all others shall not be in power. Nigeria is too big and too diverse to be islamized by a small ethnic group simply because their relative currently occupy the seats of power today.

I believe that all these issues shall be attended to in due time and we shall all end up smiling and be proud to be called Nigerians.

I therefore call on all well-meaning Nigerians, patriots and compatriots alike to come aboard this ship and join hands together to lift Nigeria high among the league of nations. Noting carefully that the Egyptians we see today shall be no more when tomorrow comes.

ARISE! OH COMPATRIOTS AND HEED THE CALL OF NIGERIA!

TOGETHER, WE SHALL ALL LAUGH AT LAST! AMEN!

GOD BLESS US ALL &

GOD BLESS THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA !

Adeyemi Ayodeji (Billy Rose Jnr)

The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD's,
But the earth hath he given to the children of men. And so the dead praise cannot the LORD,
Neither any that go down into silence.
The living, the living, he shall praise thee,
We are the Living, the generation that seeks Him,
And so we will bless the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.

We shall glorify the Almighty in spirit, in as soul even with our body.

Praise the LORD ye His people...

Plan, Pray and Prepare for Moriah 2020 Live at the Old Parade Ground area 10 FCT Abuja Nigeria, 27th of This month.

Powered by the Nehemiah Team
#Moriah2020#moriahexperience #overflowingGreatness#Gospel#Powersingers

PLAN, PRAY, PREPARE.
Please Plan, Pray and Prepare, join us on March 27th 2020 from 8pm at Moriah 2020 Crusade.

Theme: Overflowing Greatness.

Venue:The Old Parade Ground, Area 10 FCT Abuja.

You are all Welcome.

#Moriah2020 #MoriahExperience #OverflowingGreatness

Judiciary on Trial: Lessons from Kenya Example is a docu-feature, showcasing the Issues the Issues before the Judiciary, the ability of Nigeria’s Judiciary to deliver judgements that will rescue Nigeria from the current spate of killings, General insecurity, economic deprivation, poverty and hunger and other social vices in Nigeria.

It’s time to #RescueNigeria


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDcYrj7GiMk

Credibility Problem: This docu-feature exposes the Nigeria President’s many lies on the lingering issues of non qualification and perjury. In the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election: Watch the video below:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6-TFRUIXaY

Countdown to 2019 Presidential Election Petition Tribunal Judgment

*Was President at the time of the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election Qualified to contest the election?*

Section 138 (1) (a) of the Electoral Act, provides that: (1) An election may be questioned on any of the following grounds, that is to say (a) *”That the person whose election is questioned was, at the time of the election, not qualified to contest the elections."*

Section 131 (d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 provides that: *”A person shall be qualified for election to the office of President if-(d)'he has been educated up to at least School Certificate level or its equivalent”*

"School Certificate or its equivalent" *Meaning*

(a) a Secondary School Certificate or its equivalent, or Grade II Teacher's Certificate, the City and Guilds Certificate: or

(b) education up to Secondary School Certificate level; or

(c) Primary Six School Leaving Certificate or its equivalent and -

(i) Service in the public or private sector acceptable to INEC

(ii) Attendance at courses and training in such institutions acceptable to INEC

(iii) The ability to read, write, understand and communicate in English language; and

(d) any other qualification acceptable by INEC

*Please Note*

*That every contestant must choose the certificates he is relying on. In the case of Buhari, he chose "PRIMARY SCHOOL CERTIFICATE, WASC, & OFFICER CADET" as his certificates. Therefore, he must swim or sink with his choice.*

*Buhari Could Not Defend Himself at the Tribunal*

*President Buhari failed woefully to prove that he possesses the certificates he claimed. When demanded as proof, It was shocking to note that “no provisional certificate, no certified true copy of the certificates, no photocopy of the certificates and in fact, no electronic version of any of the certificates were presented by Buhari throughout the hearing of the petition at the Tribunal*

*The variations in the names in most of the documents submitted by President Buhari also speaks volumes. In some documents, it reads, Mohamed Buhari and in another it’s Muhammadu Buhari . Buhari hasn't told the tribunal either in court or in his final written address that he was initially known as Mohamed Buhari, but now known as Mohammadu Buhari. No affidavit to support the name variation.*

Also in the same exams, in some documents, Buhari claimed to have 8 subjects and in another 6 subjects. Again, Buhari failed to say or write anything on why 8 in one and 6 in another.

Even the *Oluwole* Cambridge documents collected by Abba Kyari on 18th July 2019 and presented as exhibits on 30th July 2019 before the tribunal was rejected by WAEC.

*Recent Judgement on similar Certificate Issue*

In a recent judgement between ADINDU NZE vs. CHRISTAIN NJOKU & ORS (2017), the Appeal Court held thus: *”...when a defendant failed to challenge the evidence of the plaintiff, the defendant would be assumed to have accepted the fact adduced by the Plaintiff."*

Again, In NZE vs NPA (1997), the Court of Appeal held thus: *”It is settled law that the court must accept as admitted and proved any unchallenged and uncontroverted piece of evidence."*

Buhari has failed to defend his assertive certificate claims, consequently, he is going to sink sorrowfully with his unsubstantiated claim in "the boat of defeat.“ very soon.

In view of the above, President Buhari was not qualified to contest the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election.

*It’s time to #RescueNigeria*

By Law Mefor

Like a sore thumb, the issue of the secondary school certificate of President Muhammadu Buhari keeps sticking up. But why should secondary school certificate of a full army general who has attended the Nigeria Defence Academy and later, two to three officers training institutions around the world, still matter?

Part of the silver-tongued argument of some is this direction is that such a general has actually been educated beyond secondary education. To such observers, it is even insolent to query the educational qualification of one who had attended postgraduate degree- awarding military institutions. This assertion is, without a doubt, true. But it is not the point I dare state.

The point is precisely the qualification of the individual to attend such educational institutions. Every institution has a minimum entry requirement. Nigerian universities require 5 credits in requisite subjects, including English and Mathematics. What this take as fact is that an applicant has to first qualify at a given irreducible baseline, below which the individual ought not to enroll at all. In science, this point is regarded as the threshold.

This minimum entry requirement is so fundamental that those who are helped are given remedial courses for augmentation, and time to make up without which the individual is not qualified to hold the certificate of the institution even where the person can graduate with excellence.

This practice is good and global best, and time-honoured. You cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand. In other words, you cannot put a first degree certificate on a base that lacks the secondary education foundation, as that level is designed as the feeder to the tertiary. Many degree certificates have been withdrawn for the failure of the holders to prove that they possess the said prerequisite entry qualifications in pursuit of degrees, higher honours and laurels. The latest example could be a professor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, who was discovered not to possess the basic certificate.

One can understand the apprehension of many Nigerians on the issue of secondary school certificate of Mr. President. When it first cracked up in the build up to the 2015 Presidential Election, the President informed the nation that all his certificates were with the Army. The Army responded, denying being in possession of the secondary school certificate of the President. The military instead, showed an attestation letter from the Principal of the secondary school he attended to the NDA, affirming that Buhari could pass some listed subjects.

Granted, it was acceptable for a student to gain admission into a higher Institution with insufficient qualifications. That is where remedial courses come in handy to help the candidate make up for the deficits. External examinations are also inescapable where the admitting institution does not offer certificates in the affected categories. For example, a student who entered university without English and Mathematics is expected to sit for external GCE or resit WASC examination from the University as an external candidate, and in order to pass them since they are part of the minimum entry requirement, or else…

So, it was okay for a Muhammadu Buhari to enter NDA without full entry qualifications. What will be out of order is graduating and getting his commission an officer without such entry qualifications. In the unlikely event that that was what happened, then it is most unfortunate. It means the commissioning was done in error and all subsequent promotions also done in error. The collateral damage of such circumvention can only be imagined.

For the avoidance of doubt, an attestation cannot take the place of a certificate. Certificates are earned after sitting for the appropriate examinations, and not by attestation of a teacher, headmaster or principal. When the issue was first challenged in court by a number of litigants and the President, then APC Presidential candidate, rather than bring up the certified true copy from the issuing institution, the Cambridge, assembled a team of SANs to defend him instead. The cases were eventually struck out for lack of diligent prosecution, and for the refusal of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan to press on.

Dissatisfied with the conduct and outcome of the 2019 Presidential Election, the PDP candidate in the 2019 Presidential Election, Atiku Abubakar has made the same certificate another major issue in his petition. Sever is the other.

Initially, until the issue of perjury was alleged, many did not see why the secondary school certificate should still matter about a man who had risen to the rank of a 3-star general, risen to the position of military Head of State, and President of the country. It will be good to know why perjury entered the issue.

After all, Cambridge has reissued the certificate and it has been submitted to the Presidential Election Tribunal. This ought to rest the case. It is impossible for an ancient institution like Cambridge to try to deceive Nigerians by issuing a certificate that never existed.

Let the certificate saga of Mr. President be put to rest by clearing the claim of perjury. It has also been challenged by some lawyers. On technicality, it was thrown out at the court of first instance, Appeal and the Supreme Court for being time-barred.

Technicality is now a turning point in the nation’s justice system where judgment is given without justice. We stop impugning the integrity of the nation’s President. He either holds secondary school certificate or he does not. The nation deserves to know and more importantly, the nation’s laws say about it.

· Dr. Law Mefor is an Abuja-based Forensic and Social Psychologist, Author and Journalist; drlawmefor@gmail.com; @LawMefor1.

By: Clem Aguiyi

In a sharp contrast to 2015 when there was nationwide jubilation, there were no celebrations on the streets when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared President Muhammadu Buhari winner of the 2019 Presidential Election. Instead, of celebration there were gloom, sadness and uncertainty everywhere, as people wore long faces. Even the inauguration and swearing in ceremony was low keyed and without fanfare.
Domestic and international observers from Europe and USA now and again have expressed disappointments with the election which the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) claimed lacked transparency.
In a recent report released by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), the centre observed that INEC was less transparent in the conduct of 2019 election than it was in 2015 and 2011 respectively.
The Centre described collation and tabulation of results from the polling unit to Ward Collation Centers as chaotic, open to manipulation and in some cases badly disrupted and opaque.
Ward level tabulation and collation is a critical aspect of the election process. How it was handled can increase and decrease the credibility of election. Its disruptions and manipulations give opportunities for opportunistic political parties and individual candidates to dispute election results, hence the litany of cases before the various National and States Election Tribunals.
CDD report also detailed how political thugs and security agencies threatened collation officers and party agents with violence thereby disrupting the collation process in several polling units.
Section 138 of the Electoral Act as amended, provided grounds upon which an election may be questioned: that a person whose election was queried was at the time of the election not qualified to contest the election; that the election was invalid by reason of corrupt practices or non compliance with the Act; that the person was not duly elected by majority of lawful votes cast at the election; that the person whose election is questioned submitted to the Commission affidavit containing false information of a fundamental nature in and for his qualification for the election.
Section 131 of the 1999 Constitution as amended provided that a person shall be qualified for an election to the Office of President if he is a citizen of Nigeria by birth; if he has attended the age of 35 years; if he is a member of a political party and is sponsored by the political party and he has been educated up-to at least School Certificate level or its equivalent.
Each and every one of these laws requires proper interpretation. Every judge understands his duty to interpret the wordings of the law and to dispense justice in accordance with the letters of the law. Only a mystery will make the court to rule against the constitution. The Tribunals must allow the laws as stipulated to speak as the Judiciary also is on trial. How they interpret the extant laws in the face of national expectations will have far reaching effects, especially on the stability of democracy in Nigeria.
Faced with similar situation like we do currently, the Kenya Supreme Court did not hesitate to apply the law and thus saved democracy in Kenya. In so doing the Supreme Court of Kenya created precedent for the entire Africa. The rulings of the Kenya Supreme Court could serve as a useful guide in our circumstances.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Kenya Supreme Court didn’t hide under technicalities. The determined the petition on its merit and held as follows: ‘A decision is hereby issued that the elections held on August 8 were not conducted in accordance it the constitution and the applicable law. The results are therefore invalid, null and void. Election is not an event but a process. After considering the totality of the entire evidence, we are satisfied that the elections were not conducted in accordance to the dictates of the constitution and the applicable principles’
The main reasons why the Supreme Court nullified the results were that the IEBC was not able to show that they had followed all procedures and that their servers were not hacked. The behavior of the IEBC has been suspicious and / or incompetent.
They made claims that could not stand technical scrutiny of the expert panel appointed by the Supreme Court. For instance, IEBC declined to provide the internal configuration firewall to its server, arguing that it will affect the security of their system. The technical team was able to prove that the integrity of the system would not be affected at all by providing the firewall configuration. But IEBC did not do provide the firewall configuration anyway. That the IT boss in charge of the elections was tortured and murdered a week before elections does not give any comfort. The IEBC also made procedural lapses related to printing of ballot papers, having observers. They further refused to provide a trail of those who had accessed the system.
All of this, in itself, made the court feel that something was amiss and they ordered a re-election.
This is a great shot in the arm for independence of judiciary in Kenya. It is interesting to note that international observers declared the elections to be ‘fair’. They noticed some ‘discrepancies’ but then still declared the elections to be above board. But then the issue is that for international observers, elections are an event. In reality elections, as the Supreme Court observed, are a process.
Winning elections is not about the Election Day, it is about planning and strategizing well in advance. It involves (1) ensuring that your people are in key positions, (2) your patronage extends to those who can make a difference (getting votes or raising money), (3) you convince people that you will win and that will be in their interests.
The Supreme Court judges in Kenya come from the same society as the people. As proud members of the bench they did everything to stand firm on the provisions of the law. I would tend to go by their judgment and will expect our own judges in the Presidential Election Tribunal to deliver judgments without fear or favor.
For some time now, the judiciary has come under intense criticisms and attacks, having also been accused of corruption and perversion of justice. Will the judges redeem the image of the judiciary? Will they deliver judgment based on facts or will they further capitulate and thus sink further the hope of the masses?
The gravamen of the petition and cross petition before the Presidential Election Tribunal which must be determined by the panel of Judges bordered on the issues of qualification and corrupt practices that characterized the 2o19 presidential elections.
Judges understands their duty to dispense justice and to interpret the letters of the laws as it applied to specific issues.
As the fate of citizens wane and thin in the executive arm of government and the legislature, the judiciary despite all odds remains a source of confidence and fearlessness. And like they say the last hope of the masses. Can our Tribunals rise up to the occasion and like the Kenyan Supreme Court allow the law to speak and dispense justice without fear of favor?

*Presidential Election Petition Tribunal*

*President Buhari’s Certificate..Shall we continue in sin, so that Grace May Abound? God forbid*

One of the five Grounds of Petition filed by the PDP and its Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, against the declaration of Muhammadu Buhari as winner of the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election is that, President Buhari was not qualified to contest the election.

The second most important grounds of the PDP and Atiku/Obi’s Petition is lying on oath, providing false information of a fundamental nature in aid of his qualification. President Muhammadu Buhari lied in his affidavit that his certificates were with the Army. He also lied that he attended institutions that were not in existence as of the time of his claims. Lastly, President Buhari presented *”Oluwole”* (fake) Cambridge Certificate International Statement of Result.

President Buhari contested four different elections between 2003 to 2015 and won in 2015. In all the elections, President Buhari could not attach his certificates as claimed in his form CF001, which is a major requirements in the Electoral act, 2010 (as amended).

Section 131 (d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 provides that: *”A person shall be qualified for election to the office of President if ...(d) he has been educated up to at least school certificate levels or its equivalent”*

*To be qualified, President Buhari Must produce his Primary School Certificate or his West African School Certificate or Officer Cadet Certificate (Whatever that means), since those were the qualifications he claimed in his form CF001”*

Some have argued that, President Buhari can speak and write in English language, that he was former President of Nigeria. Some people have also argued that, if he was not disqualified in previous elections for failing to present his certificates as required by law in previous contest, why now?

The simple answer to this question is, *”shall we continue in sin so that Grave May abound? God forbid”*

We cannot continue in sin so that Grace May abound. The issue of qualification is strictly a matter of law and there is nothing ambiguous about it in Section 131 (d).

*The decision of the court in this matter will greatly enrich our electoral process and also enhance the quality of our elected representatives.*

The more we elect people with questionable characters into sensitive offices, especially the office of President, the more the country will remain backward.

The Nigerian judiciary is only the institution that can salvage this situation and set a precedent for future elections.

The expectations of Nigerians and the international community is for the justices of the Appeal and Supreme Courts to put Nigeria first in their minds.

*The future of this Country is crying for help. It’s time to #RescueNigeria*

*INEC overwhelmed, chickens out, refused to present witness/evidence at the Tribunal*

In what looks like a sign of defeat, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has chickened out at today’s hearing of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

The electoral body who is the 1st respondent was supposed to call its witnesses today but announced to the court that the commission does not have any witness/evidence to present to the court.

The announcement came as a rude shock to the court. This is a sign that the commission is overwhelmed with the overwhelming evidences/witnesses presented by the PDP and Atiku/Obi.

The court has now adjourned to Tuesday, July 30, 2019 by 2pm for the 2nd Respondent, Muhammadu Buhari to present his defense.

*It’s time to #RescueNigeria*

Presidential Election Petition Tribunal

PDP & Atiku/Obi: 10 Days of Legal Exposition

Between Thursday July 1, 2019 to Friday July 19, 2019, the legal team of the Petitioners, the PDP and Atiku/Obi presented over 50,000 evidences and 62 witnesses before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

Major Highlights:

Most of the witnesses that testified before the court spoke on the failures of INEC and use of Security Agents by the APC to rig the elections in favour its Candidates.

INEC failures:

The witnesses testified as follows:

1. That INEC flaunted most of its Guidelines in the conduct of the 2019 General Elections. Of particular interest is the use of smart card reader.

The INEC in its guidelines for the 2019 General Elections made the use of smart card reader a compulsory requirements in the conduct of the elections.

The commission stated that in areas or units where smart card readers were not used during accreditation, elections should be canceled in those polling units, but this was not what transpired in the last general elections.

2. Pasting of Form EC8As at the polling units is also a compulsory requirements in the electoral act 2010 (as amended). But as reported by most of the witnesses in both their witness statements and during cross examination, the results of the election at the polling units in most states of the federation were not pasted at the units as required by law.

3. Cancellation of votes at the collation centers. Most witnesses told the court that results of elections were blatantly cancelled by INEC at Collation centers as against the provisions of the law.

4. Late arrival of sensitive materials: Polling was supposed to commence from 8:00am and close by 2:00pm but this was not the case as reported by the witnesses. In most cases, INEC presiding officers arrived late to the polling units without results sheets and other sensitive materials.

5. Bribery and other infractions: In Nasarawa state and some other states of the federation, witnesses told the court that INEC officers were caught collecting bribe between 5 to 10,0000 dollars. They stated that these incidences were reported to the authorities but nothing was done.

Security Agents/APC

1. In Borno, Yobe and some other states, witnesses testified that voters were subdued by security agents to hand over their ballot papers after accreditation to security agents to thump print on their behalf for any candidate of their choice.

2. In Kogi, Lagos and other southwest states, witnesses testified that security agents led thugs loyal to APC to polling units, especially units perceived to be strongholds of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to disrupt elections and burnt both ballot boxes and papers

3. Over voting: In Yobe, Kano, Katsina, Bauchi, Borno, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kogi, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kebbi and others, witnesses reported how figures declared by INEC does not tally with the total number of registered voters in those polling units and accredited voters

4. Ballot stuffing and snatching: Witnesses reported how security agents aided APC members at the polling units to snatch and stuff ballot boxes in favour of the APC Presidential Candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

Perjury:

In the course of hearings, the PDP and Atiku/Obi’s legal team presented several documents and witnesses to the court, highlighting the infractions of the APC Presidential Candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

The PDP and Atiku/Obi exposed how President Buhari lied on oath in aid of his qualification by deposing to a false claim in an affidavits he presented to the court.

In INEC form CF001, President Buhari mentioned schools that were never in existence as of the time he made the claims.

The President also failed to present the certificates of the institutions he stated in his forms.

Presentation of video tapes:

The PDP and Atiku/Obi submitted 48 video tapes to the court in line with evidence act of 2011. Four of the video tapes were shown in court

The tapes exposed how both INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu and a commissioner in Akwa Ibom, Mr. Mike Igini told Nigerians that results of the Presidential election will be transmitted live to its server to show transparency and openness.

The tapes also show how the military in 2014 told Nigerians that they don’t have records of President Buhari’s credentials/certificates

Closing day:

At the close of hearing on Friday, July 19, 2019, the team presented two expert witnesses and a star witness.

Controversial INEC Server

Mr. David Nyangor is a computer analyst from Kenya. He was Subpoenaed to testify before the court on the true situation of the controversial INEC server.

During his testimony, Mr. Nyangor demonstrated how INEC transmitted results of the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election to its central server as promised by the commission before the general elections.

He told the court that he got his information from a whistleblower website, www.factsdontlieng.com, which was created and managed by a technical staff of INEC.

He sald that the above named website has all the contents of the INEC server and from available information, the former Vice President of Nigeria and Candidate of the PDP in in the last Presidential Election, Atiku Abubakar won the APC by a margin of over 1.8 million votes.

Mr. Nyangor exposed INEC complicity on the issue of the server and with regards to the security information he provided.

He gave the court the Internet protocol (IP) address of the supposed INEC and other backend login details.

Finally, the PDP National Collation Agent, Mr. Osita Chidioka presented evidences before the court to justify the illegality of INEC, security and APC agents in the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election.

He told the court how INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu told various stakeholders before the elections that the commission will transmit results of the Presidential Election to its server.

It’s time to #RescueNigeria

*Brief Overview of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal*

*Did You Know*

- That the PDP and Atiku/Obi have concluded presentation of witnesses and evidences at the 2019 Presidential Election Petition Tribunal?

- That the Petitioners presented over 50,000 evidences and 62 witnesses after 10 days of legal battle at the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division?

- That at the close of hearing on Friday, July 19, 2019, the PDP and Atiku/Obi presented two expert witnesses and one star witness

- That one of the expert witness, Mr. David Nyangor Njogu from Kenya demonstrated how INEC transmitted results of the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election to its central Server and

- That the Candidate of the PDP, Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, won the Presidential Election going by the actual votes cast at the election

- That a star witness, Mr. Osita Chidioka, who was also the PDP National Collation Agent told the Court that about N284 billion was spent in the last General Elections, which he said was the highest spent on elections in the history of Nigeria, because of the electronic component

- That Osita Chidioka also told the Court that INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, told him with others during a stakeholders meeting before the elections that it would be immoral not to use electronic transmission of results after spending N27 billion on the project.

- That with the evidences and witness statements provided so far by the PDP and Atiku/Obi...

- That the Petitioners have shown substantially that...

1. The 2nd Respondent and Candidate of the APC, Muhammadu Buhari was not duly elected as President of Nigeria on February 23, 2019

2. The 2nd Respondent, Muhammadu Buhari was not validly elected by reasons of all the corrupt practices of INEC, APC and security agents

3. The 2nd Respondent, Muhammadu Buhari was not validly elected by reasons of non-compliance with the electoral act 2010 as amended

4. Muhammadu Buhari, the Presidential Candidate of the APC was not qualified ab initio to contest for the office of the President of Nigeria.

5. Muhammadu Buhari submitted to INEC affidavits containing false information of a fundamental nature in aid of his qualification for the said election.

*It’s time to #RescueNigeria*

*Brief Overview of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal*

*Did You Know*

- That the PDP and Atiku/Obi have concluded presentation of witnesses and evidences at the 2019 Presidential Election Petition Tribunal?

- That the Petitioners presented over 50,000 evidences and 62 witnesses after 10 days of legal battle at the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division?

- That at the close of hearing on Friday, July 19, 2019, the PDP and Atiku/Obi presented two expert witnesses and one star witness

- That one of the expert witness, Mr. David Nyangor Njogu from Kenya demonstrated how INEC transmitted results of the February 23, 2019 Presidential Election to its central Server and

- That the Candidate of the PDP, Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, won the Presidential Election going by the actual votes cast at the election

- That a star witness, Mr. Osita Chidioka, who was also the PDP National Collation Agent told the Court that about N284 billion was spent in the last General Elections, which he said was the highest spent on elections in the history of Nigeria, because of the electronic component

- That Osita Chidioka also told the Court that INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, told him with others during a stakeholders meeting before the elections that it would be immoral not to use electronic transmission of results after spending N27 billion on the project.

- That with the evidences and witness statements provided so far by the PDP and Atiku/Obi...

- That the Petitioners have shown substantially that...

1. The 2nd Respondent and Candidate of the APC, Muhammadu Buhari was not duly elected as President of Nigeria on February 23, 2019

2. The 2nd Respondent, Muhammadu Buhari was not validly elected by reasons of all the corrupt practices of INEC, APC and security agents

3. The 2nd Respondent, Muhammadu Buhari was not validly elected by reasons of non-compliance with the electoral act 2010 as amended

4. Muhammadu Buhari, the Presidential Candidate of the APC was not qualified ab initio to contest for the office of the President of Nigeria.

5. Muhammadu Buhari submitted to INEC affidavits containing false information of a fundamental nature in aid of his qualification for the said election.

*It’s time to #RescueNigeria*

How's the political and economic weather in Naija?

Light dey for una side so?

January 19, 2019

Press Statement

2019: PDP Rejects INEC’s Move To Accommodate APC in Rivers

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) totally and vehemently rejects contemplations by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to accommodate the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the general elections in Rivers state.

PDP’s position is predicated on the unacceptable and compromising suggestion by INEC, through its National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, that certain circumstances could lead to the postponement of election, in Rivers State, to accommodate the APC, which currently do not have candidates in the elections, following the quashing of its congresses in the state by the Court.

Such suggestion by INEC is distasteful and only points to a collusion with the APC in its plot to stalemate electoral processes in some strategic states to pave the way to postpone elections in such states and use compromised security forces to effect massive rigging, as was the case in the 2018 Ekiti and Osun states governorship elections, a scheme, which will be firmly resisted by Nigerians in the 2019 general elections.

Currently, the APC is not on the ballot and has no candidates for the governorship, Senatorial, House of Representatives and State Assembly elections in Rivers and Zamfara states following the voiding of the APC congresses in these states by the court.

In line with this reality, the ballot paper in all elections in Rivers and Zamfara states must, under no circumstance, bear the logo of the APC.

The PDP insists that INEC must base all its actions and contemplations for the elections on this reality and should under no circumstance predicate any action on a hypothetical condition.

It is also important for INEC to know that Okoye’s advocacy for the APC detracts from the commission’s neutrality and exposes it as a compromised umpire.

The PDP therefore charges the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to be appropriately guided in the conduct of the general elections.

Unlike the APC, our party is fully prepared for the elections and will never allow the APC and some compromised INEC officials to manipulate the elections, just because the APC has seen that it has no chance of winning.

The PDP therefore calls on all Nigerians to unite in condemnation of this cowardly scheme by the APC in its bid to foist itself back to power against their collective will as a people.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
Director, Media & Publicity
PDP Presidential Campaign Organization

January 17, 2019

Press Statement

APC Warri Rally: Buhari Has Foreseen His Defeat - PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organization (PPCO) notes President Muhammadu Buhari’s voluntary handing over of his Presidential candidacy at the APC Presidential campaign rally in Warri, Delta state, on Thursday, and surmised that he (Buhari) has foreseen his defeat and already switched into a handing-over mode.

The whole world watched as President Buhari, apparently overwhelmed by thoughts of his defeat, ended up declaring the APC Governorship candidate in Delta state, Great Ogboru, as the Presidential candidate.

President Buhari told his audience, “I have this pleasure of handing over this flag of honour to our Presidential candidate”, while giving the flag to Great Ogboru.

It is clear that President Buhari, worried by the shunning of his campaign by Nigerians, mistook the Warri Rally for the May 29, 2019 handing over ceremony that is four months ahead.

President Buhari is already in the mood of his May 29, 2019 handover of mantle of leadership to PDP Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, following the national consensus to return the PDP back to power in the February 16, 2019 Presidential elections.

President Buhari had continued to display that he did not have the intention of seeking for a second term in office. It is evident that he is only being compelled by the cabal in his Presidency, who the First Lady, Aisha Buhari, had confirmed are manipulating the President for their pecuniary interest while the nation suffers.

The PPCO therefore calls on all Nigerians to note that there is no need casting any vote for President Buhari who has overtly shown that he is not prepared for the election.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan
Director, Media & Publicity
PDP Presidential Campaign Organization