₦airaland Forum

NMTS GOMBE STATE LEADERSHIP VISITS NEW APC CAMPAIGN DG, PRESENTS GRASSROOTS STRUCTURE, VOWS TOTAL VICTORY IN 2027


The leadership of the National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027 (NMTS), Gombe State Chapter, has paid a congratulatory visit to Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan following his appointment as Director-General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Gombe State Campaign Council.

The delegation was led by the National Chairman of NMTS 2027 – Forward Nigeria, *Professor Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, who congratulated the newly appointed Campaign Director-General and expressed confidence in his capacity to provide effective leadership and strategic direction for the party's campaign ahead of the 2027 general elections.

During the visit, Professor Alkali presented the organisational structure of NMTS in Gombe State, outlining the movement's presence from the state level down to the grassroots. He reaffirmed the movement's commitment to working closely with the APC Campaign Council to mobilise support and secure victory for the party at all levels in the forthcoming elections.

He also expressed confidence that, with effective coordination, unity and sustained grassroots mobilisation, the APC would record a resounding victory in Gombe State. He reiterated the movement's readiness to support the political direction and expectations of His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and contribute meaningfully to the collective success of all APC candidates.

The delegation comprised Alhaji Abdullahi Muhammad Yuguda, State Chairman; Hon. Abubakar Kalagar Muhammad, State Secretary; Hajiya Maimuna Idi, State Treasurer; Barr. Yunusa Mohammed Morocco, State Legal Adviser; and Malam Saidu Mohammed Alkali, Chairman, Dukku Local Government Area, among other members of the movement.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both the NMTS leadership and the incoming Campaign Director-General expressing their determination to work collaboratively towards the electoral success of the APC in Gombe State and across the country.

The engagement further demonstrates NMTS 2027 – Forward Nigeria's commitment to strengthening political partnerships, expanding grassroots mobilisation and building effective organisational structures in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections.

*NMTS 2027 – Forward Nigeria: Mobilising Support, Strengthening Structures, Securing Victory.*

*Issued by:*
Abubakar Kalagar Muhammad
Secretary, NMTS Gombe State Chapter

By Rekpene Bassey

Sixty-six years after the Union Jack was lowered and the Nigerian flag was raised on October 1, 1960, Nigeria arrives at another anniversary carrying the peculiar weight of a nation that has survived almost everything history could throw at it.

Independence did not end Nigeria’s troubles; it merely transferred responsibility for them. Wars, coups, civil conflict, economic dislocation, ethnic suspicion, religious tensions, corruption, terrorism and democratic reversals have tested the country repeatedly. But Nigeria remains. Per aspera ad astra, through difficulties to the stars.

That survival should neither be romanticised nor dismissed. Nations are not sustained merely by geographical boundaries or constitutional documents. They endure because, beneath the quarrels of politics and the frustrations of citizens, there remains some residual belief in a common destiny. Nigeria’s greatest achievement may therefore be less visible than its monuments: despite everything, the country has not surrendered the idea that its hundreds of peoples can inhabit one political home.

But survival is not the same thing as success. At 66, the appropriate question is no longer simply whether Nigeria has survived. It is whether the country is converting survival into prosperity, insecurity into safety, population into human capital, democracy into accountable government, and natural resources into broad-based opportunity.
The distinction matters. A country can remain intact while its citizens become increasingly impatient with the quality of life that independence has delivered.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu returns to the centre of this national conversation after an extended working vacation in Europe. He left Nigeria on August 30 for what was initially announced as a three-week annual leave and returned on September 29 after the period was extended. The Presidency says he remained in touch with developments at home and continued directing government affairs while abroad.

His return coincides with an anniversary that demands more than ceremonial speeches. It comes at a moment when Nigeria is simultaneously confronting an economic transition, persistent insecurity, institutional pressures and the intensifying politics of the 2027 general election. The coincidence is instructive. Tempus fugit, time flies. Governments, like nations, are ultimately judged not by the intentions with which they began but by the conditions they leave behind.

The security question remains the most immediate test of the Nigerian state. Terrorist groups remain active in the North-East, banditry has entrenched itself across parts of the North-West, kidnapping has become an increasingly sophisticated criminal enterprise, while communal and political violence continue to threaten communities elsewhere. ACLED reports that Nigeria's security environment now involves an overlapping mixture of Islamist insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, political militias and farmer-herder conflict.

The changing geography of violence is particularly troubling. ACLED recorded more than 400 kidnappings in Nigeria’s North-West in 2026 as of June, while warning that mass kidnapping was beginning to spread into other regions. The significance goes beyond the victims themselves. Every kidnapping changes behaviour: families withdraw children from school, farmers abandon fields, traders alter routes, investors reconsider locations and communities begin to calculate survival privately.

Ransom has consequently become part of the economics of insecurity. SBM Intelligence estimated that ₦7.78 billion was paid in ransom between July 2025 and June 2026, involving at least 7,825 abducted persons. The figure is necessarily imperfect because kidnapping is underreported, but its direction is unmistakable: criminality has developed a revenue model in which fear itself has become monetised.

The terrorist threat is also changing character. ACLED reported more than 300 clashes involving Boko Haram and ISWAP in the Lake Chad region during the first quarter of 2026, a 30 percent increase over the preceding quarter. Meanwhile, the Africa Center for Strategic Studies reported a sharp rise in fatalities linked to Sahelian militant Islamist groups in north-western Nigeria, alongside collaboration between extremist networks and criminal groups.

This convergence should command strategic attention. Nigeria is no longer dealing with neat categories of “terrorism,” “banditry,” “kidnapping” and “organised crime.” The boundaries increasingly overlap. Weapons, money, intelligence, logistics and recruitment can travel across those boundaries. The appropriate response must therefore be equally integrated: intelligence-led policing, military capability, border security, financial intelligence, community engagement, judicial effectiveness and disruption of criminal economies.

However, security cannot be measured only by the number of operations conducted or militants neutralised. The deeper measure is whether a farmer can return to his land, a child can attend school, a passenger can travel without fear, an entrepreneur can invest without calculating ransom risk and a community can sleep without maintaining an informal early-warning network. The ultimate objective of security policy is not the perpetual deployment of security forces; it is the restoration of normal life.

The economic story is more complicated, and therefore more important. Nigeria has achieved measurable macroeconomic improvements. The World Bank reports real GDP growth of 4.2 percent in the first half of 2026, while noting that growth remains insufficient to generate enough productive jobs or materially reduce poverty. It also estimates that 50.8 percent of Nigerians, about 123 million people, were living in extreme poverty under the $4.20-a-day benchmark in 2025.

The International Monetary Fund similarly recognises that reforms over the past three years have strengthened macroeconomic resilience, while warning that conditions remain difficult. Its June 2026 assessment estimated poverty at 63 percent under Nigeria’s national poverty line and reported that 27 million Nigerians faced food insecurity in the latter part of 2025.

These figures illuminate an uncomfortable truth about reform: macroeconomic stability and household prosperity do not arrive on the same timetable. A government may stabilise the currency market, improve revenue collection, rebuild reserves and attract investment, while the ordinary citizen is still confronting expensive food, transportation, housing and education. Res publica, the public thing, the commonwealth, cannot be reduced to balance sheets. Economic reform must eventually become human experience.

This is where the idea of Renewed Hope faces its most consequential test. Hope cannot remain a political vocabulary. It must become measurable improvement. It must mean a young graduate finding productive work, a small enterprise surviving beyond its first year, a farmer receiving security and market access, a child receiving quality education and a vulnerable household receiving support before hardship becomes destitution.

The World Bank has acknowledged meaningful progress in macroeconomic stabilisation while simultaneously stressing that household incomes have yet to recover fully and poverty remains high.

Its conclusion is significant: Nigeria now has an opportunity to translate stabilisation into investment in human capital, productivity and inclusive growth. The challenge, therefore, is no longer merely to reform the economy; it is to make reform socially consequential.

At 66, Nigeria also confronts the demographic paradox. Its enormous youthful population is simultaneously its greatest economic asset and one of its greatest security vulnerabilities. An educated, employed and economically empowered young population can transform Nigeria into a global production and innovation centre. A population excluded from opportunity can become susceptible to criminal recruitment, extremist narratives, political manipulation and social despair. Human capital is therefore not merely an economic policy. It is national security.

Which brings Nigeria inevitably to 2027. INEC has scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, followed by governorship and State House of Assembly elections on February 6. The electoral commission has also identified the integrity of the voters’ register as fundamental to public confidence and announced plans for nationwide voter revalidation.

The approaching election should therefore be understood as more than a contest for political office. It will be another test of whether Nigeria's democratic institutions can manage intense competition without allowing competition to become conflict.

The country has already experienced elections in which political rivalry produced violence, attacks on electoral personnel and threats against civilians. The lesson should be obvious: democracy loses its meaning when citizens become afraid to participate in it.

Political actors consequently carry a responsibility greater than winning elections. They must protect the republic in the process of seeking power. Parties must compete on programmes; candidates must be subjected to scrutiny; institutions must enforce the rules impartially; security agencies must protect voters without becoming instruments of partisan intimidation; and citizens must reject the politics of ethnic hatred, religious incitement and violence.

For President Tinubu, the period between this Independence anniversary and the 2027 election presents an unusually consequential political and governing moment. The most persuasive case for any administration is ultimately found in measurable outcomes: security improved, investment expanded, inflation contained, jobs created, institutions strengthened and citizens given greater confidence in the future. Political messaging can explain policy; only results can authenticate it.

For Nigerians, however, responsibility does not end with government. Citizens are not spectators in the republic. The 2027 election will require voters to examine records, programmes, character, constitutional commitments and competing visions without surrendering their judgement to propaganda.

Democracy is not merely the right to vote; it is the responsibility to understand what one is voting for. Civis Romanus sum once expressed the dignity of citizenship; modern Nigeria must rediscover an equally serious conception of civic responsibility.

At 66, therefore, Nigeria stands neither at the end of its journey nor at the beginning. It stands at an inflection point. The country possesses enormous resources, a vast market, strategic geography, entrepreneurial citizens and considerable diplomatic influence. But these advantages will remain possibilities unless institutions can convert them into security, productivity and social mobility. The question is no longer whether Nigeria has potential. The question is whether Nigeria can finally organise its potential.

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu resumes full engagement with the nation, and as Nigerians prepare for another decisive electoral season, the message of Independence Day should be neither triumphalist nor despairing. It should be sober, confident and demanding. Nigeria has endured much. Nigeria has survived much.

But survival must now give way to transformation. At 66, the republic deserves not merely another year of existence, but another chapter of purpose. May the sacrifices of those who fought for Nigeria's freedom, unity and democracy continue to guide us. May the coming year bring greater security, wider prosperity, stronger institutions and deeper national confidence.

Rekpene Bassey
President of the African Council on Narcotics and a Security Specialist.

Nigeria And The United Nations General Assembly:
What Nigerians Should Know

By

Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, Ph. D.

In the last few days, there has been a lot of hype in Nigeria over the ongoing annual meeting of the United Nations, especially about the decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s to delegate His Excellency, the Vice President, Sen Kashim Shettima to represent the country at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
As everything in Nigeria, this has generated considerable public interest, oftentimes heated debates in the country. Some Nigerians have expressed concern that the President Tinubu's absence at the UNGA represents a diplomatic setback, while many other Nigerians have argued that the Vice -President or any other senior official of the Federal Government of Nigeria can adequately represent the country.
This debate is normal and healthy in a democracy. However, before reaching hasty conclusions on this matter, it is important that we understand what the United Nations General Assembly actually requires, what international practice looks like, and how other countries - including some of the most powerful countries in the world - handle Presidential or Prime-Ministerial attendance.
Beyond the political noise lies a simple question: what does the UN actually require, and what does international practice permit? The purpose of this intervention is to correct the impression that a President must personally attend the UN General Assembly every year, so that we can put Nigeria's experience in proper historical perspective. Given the topicality of this issue, we need to explore and separate the facts from the fiction.
In the first place, one of the most important points to note is that, there is no rule of the United Nations Organisation categorically requiring the President or Prime Minister of every member state to personally attend the General Assembly every year. According to United Nations rules, a country can be represented by its delegation, and the delegation may be led by the Head of State, Head of Government, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Permanent Representative to the United Nations or any other authorised senior official.
Secondly, it is true, the United Nations General Debate is undoubtedly one of the most important annual gatherings in international diplomacy. It brings together world leaders and senior representatives from around the world to discuss war and peace, international security, development, climate change, trade, global health, terrorism, poverty, technology and other matters of international concern. But personal attendance by a President or Prime Minister of a country has never been an absolute requirement.
Infact, recent research covering the United Nations General Debate from 1946 to 2019 showed that out of the 9,959 speakers at the United Nations General Assembly,(UNGA), only 2,179 - about 22 percent - were national political leaders. In most other instances, Foreign ministers, diplomats and other senior Government representatives constituted the majority of delegates at the UNGA. A more recent investigation extending the data to 2022, showed that physical presence of Heads of State and Government at the UNGA constituted approximately only 24 percent of speakers. The pattern was the same even during the Cold War period, when the General Debate was dominated particularly by foreign ministers and representatives of national UN missions. All these demonstrates that, the practice of delegating representation at the General Assembly is neither new nor peculiar to Nigeria.
The question is, what happens in other countries? Let us now explore some of the world's most influential countries. Russia provides perhaps one of the clearest examples. President Vladimir Putin has not been a regular annual participant at the United Nations General Assembly. In fact, according to available records, when he attended the 70th General Assembly in 2015, that was his first appearance at the UN General Assembly in ten years. He had previously attended in 2000, 2003 and 2005. But, throughout the decade 2005 - 2014, Russia was represented by senior officials, particularly Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Let us remember that Russia is not a small or insignificant country in global politics. Indeed, Russia is one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Similarly, China provides another important contemporary example. President Xi Jinping has not treated annual personal attendance at the General Assembly as obligatory. China has frequently been represented at the highest level by other senior officials. Again, even this year, 2026, Xi Jinping is not going to attend the current 81st General Assembly. In his place, just as in the case of Nigeria, Vice-President Han Zheng will be representing China.
Importantly, just as the case of Russia, China is not an ordinary member of the international system. It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and one of the world's largest economies and most influential powers.
Again, another country we often refer to as the largest democracy is India. Yet, India too has followed a mixed pattern. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has attended the General Assembly personally on a number of occasions, but India has also been represented by its Foreign Minister and other senior government officials on a number of other occasions. Interestingly. Modi is not personally attending the 81st General Assembly in 2026.
Other countries that have not ritualised the attendance of the United Nations General Assembly include the United Kingdom, another Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council. It is on record that, the former Britain's Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak did not personally attend the 2023 General Assembly. It is also known that, the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, on a number of occasions did not personally attend the high-level General Debate. What all these cases show is that, absence from UNGA by Presidents and or Prime Ministers does not automatically mean absence of the country from the United Nations system.
Let us now look at the current 2026 UN General Assembly. In fact, the situation at the 81st General Assembly as at September 2026 makes this point even clearer. According to available records, several prominent world leaders are not physically attending this year's General Assembly. These include Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their countries are nevertheless being represented by senior officials.
While the United Nations describes the 81st session as a gathering intended to bring world leaders together to address global cooperation, sustainable development, peace and equality, still, the organisation does not require every national leader to be physically present. This year's General Assembly therefore obviously provides a useful illustration of an established diplomatic practice, that, countries can participate fully in the General Assembly through authorised representatives even when their Presidents or Prime Ministers are not physically present.
Then, the next logical question is, what about Nigeria? Here, it is important first of all to correct a popular misconception. It is not correct to say that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has never attended the United Nations General Assembly.
President Tinubu personally attended the 78th General Assembly in September 2023 and addressed the General Debate. Since then,
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has been representing the President and led the Nigerian delegation to the 79th, 80th and now 81st sessions. Again, for the 81st session in 2026, President Tinubu formally mandated Vice-President Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation. The delegation includes senior government officials and governors. His Excellency, Kashim Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria's national statement and participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements.
Given all these, it is an inaccurate description to say that, Nigeria is "absent" from the United Nations General Assembly. To the contrary,
Nigeria is present, fully. Of course, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not personally present, but the Vice-President is adequately representing him and the country. That distinction matters.
We may still ask the question, does personal attendance of the Presidents at the UN General Assembly matter? The answer is yes, it matters. It can be argued that, the fact that Presidential attendance is not compulsory does not mean that it is unimportant. It is important for a number of reasons. For instance, there are significant diplomatic advantages to having a President or Prime Minister physically present in New York during UNGA week.
Clearly, the General Assembly provides visiting leaders unique opportunities for bilateral meetings with other Heads of Government, discussions with the UN Secretary-General, interaction with international financial institutions, investment diplomacy, engagement with multinational corporations and consultations on regional and global security.
Certainly, for a country such as Nigeria - which is regarded as a major African power and has historically played important roles in African diplomacy and peace keeing - both at sub-regional and continental levels - physical presence of the President can have considerable symbolic and diplomatic value. The President can also use the occasion to articulate the country's foreign-policy priorities directly before the international community. All these mean, Nigerians would always like to see their President attending UNGA personally. That is a legitimate patriotic disposition. Yet, even then, it is different from saying that the United Nations requires him to attend personally every United Nations General Assembly, (UNGA).
Unfortunately because of the current political climate in Nigeria, and with the commencement of Presidential campaign, issues that ordinarily should be straight forward, end up being politicised with huge dose of propaganda. As a result, much of the current debate has become confused and distorted, obviously for this same reason.
Lets look at the facts again. There are two different questions, but the two questions are oftentimes deliberately treated as one. The first question is: is President Tinubu legally or diplomatically required to personally attend every General Assembly of the UNO every year? Based on both historical and contemporary records and tradition, the answer is NO!. Then, comes the second question: would Nigeria derive diplomatic, political or economic benefits from having its President personally attend the General Assembly more regularly?
That is a legitimate subject for debate, and reasonable people can reach different conclusions based on their assessment and understanding of Nigeria's approach to governance and engagements in International politics and diplomacy. However, the two questions should not be confused, because they are not the same.
It is important to stress the point that representation by a Vice-President, Prime Minister or Foreign Minister of any member country does not mean that the country has abandoned the United Nations. Diplomacy routinely operates through authorised representatives. Indeed, as we noted earlier on, historical records of the United Nations General Assembly shows that foreign ministers and diplomatic representatives have traditionally played an enormous role in presenting national positions. The bottomline is that representation is not absence.
Additionally, the quality of representation also matters.
A Vice-President who has been specifically mandated by the President, supported by the Foreign Minister and accompanied by senior officials can participate in the General Debate, hold bilateral meetings and advance national positions. In Nigeria's case, the Federal Government has stated that Vice-President Shettima has a full presidential mandate to represent the country at the 2026 General Assembly. In this case, it should not be confused with a failure to participate in the UN system. It is well known that in all his previous appearances at the United Nations General Assembly, Vice President Kashim Shettima, has demonstrated uncommon abilities, in his composure, effective speech delivery and statesmanship, with full understanding of international diplomatic etiquettes.
What other questions should Nigerians therefore ask? In my view, dispassionate national conversation should move beyond the simple question of whether the President was physically present in New York. The more useful questions we can raise are:
What objectives has Nigeria set for its participation in this year's General Assembly?
What bilateral meetings are being held? What investment, trade and development opportunities are being pursued? What is Nigeria's position on UN Security Council reform? What is Nigeria doing to advance African interests? What diplomatic outcomes will emerge from the Nigerian delegation's participation?
And, finally, what measurable and deliverable benefits will Nigeria derive from its participation at UNGA? To me and to most discerning minds, these are the substantive questions that occupy our minds, rather than simply counting whether the President's aircraft landed in New York.

Concluding Remarks
The United Nations General Assembly remains one of the most important institutions of multilateral diplomacy. Presidential attendance can be valuable. It can provide visibility, direct engagement and opportunities for high-level diplomacy. But personal attendance of the President is not a mandatory annual requirement, and international practice demonstrates considerable variation.
Presidents and Prime Ministers of major powers - including Russia, China, India, the United Kingdom and France - have at different times have sent high level representatives to the General Assembly sessions while their countries continued to reap the benefits through its senior representatives.
The historical evidence is also equally very clear: for much of the UN's existence, foreign ministers and diplomats, rather than Presidents and Prime Ministers, were the dominant voices in the General Debate.
Therefore, Nigerians should distinguish between Presidential absence and national absence.
President Tinubu's decision to delegate Vice President, Sen Kashim Shettima to the three consecutive UNGA sessions since 2024 may legitimately be debated in terms of diplomatic strategy, symbolism and national interest. But it is factually inaccurate to suggest that Nigeria is thereby absent from the United Nations General Assembly or that international diplomatic practice requires President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to attend personally every year. In any case, the presence of His Excellency, Vice President, Sen Kashim Shettima, the Hon Minister of Foreign Affairs and leading Diplomats and Administrators in New York has clearly served the purpose.
The more constructive question for Nigerians should not simply be: "Was the President in New York?" Rather: "What did Nigeria achieve at the United Nations - and what tangible diplomatic, political and economic benefits will Nigerians derive from that participation?" This is the standard by which our international engagement should ultimately be judged.


Rufa’i Ahmed Alkali, is a Professor of Political Science

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)

Copy
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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*

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Light dey for una side so?