...says MK Fadah blazing new trails in skills acquisition

A new report has exonerated the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General MK Fadah, of alleged certificate forgery.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER), which made this known in a statement, said it came to this conclusion after an independent assessment of the operations of the Scheme.

According to CALSER, the NYSC DG has verifiable academic records, noting that those behind the claims are only out to dent the hard-earned reputation of the respected soldier.

The centre also said the NYSC DG is competent and educationally qualified and committed to improving the Scheme.

"For clarity's sake, let us take a look at the educational background of the NYSC DG. Brigadier General Fada attended the Kaduna Polytechnic from where he obtained an HND certificate," the statement said.

"He proceeded to Lagos State University from where he obtained a Post-Graduate Diploma in Management. He equally obtained a Master's Degree in Peace and Strategic Studies from the University of Ilorin. Due to his unquenching love for knowledge, he enrolled and is pursuing a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna".

Describing Fadah as a trailblazer, the centre said he has repositioned the Scheme in numerous ways, particularly in skills acquisition.

"Upon assuming office, the NYSC experienced a wave of the feelings of excellent leadership provided by Brigadier General Fadah. He has taken bold steps in repositioning the NYSC and has emphasized that the basis upon which the scheme was established must continue to be upheld," the statement said.

"Brigadier General Fadah works closely with the NYSC State Directors and foresees the day-to-day running of the scheme in a transparent, accountable and genuine leadership. Influenced by the working spirit of the DG, the management of NYSC is also in top gear in driving the scheme to greater glory".

The centre noted that the welfare of staff and corps members has significantly improved, adding that those calling for the scrapping of the scheme are ignorant.

"It is sheer ignorance for a person or group of people to call for the scrapping of the NYSC. With no apology, anyone calling for the scrapping of the scheme is an enemy of the state. The reason for this submission is that Nigeria should be clamouring for the strengthening of the scheme to improve on the basis upon which it was founded.

"The issue of national integration is one aspect that must not be neglected and the NYSC as the institution saddled with the responsibility of ensuring this development should receive every necessary support rather than condemnation".

The centre, therefore, called on Nigerians to give the NYSC the necessary support it requires to function effectively, adding that the funding of the scheme should never be compromised.

It also said "scrapping the NYSC is not a factor to be considered at all" due to its contribution to strengthening national integration, peace and unity cannot be overemphasized.

Among other things, the centre, however, advised that the Scheme's entrepreneurial programme should be made flexible and easily accessible for corps members.

Obajana: Concerned Nigerians write EFCC, wants Dangote, Kogi ex-Governors investigated



Kogi State chapter of Concerned Nigerian Citizens (CNC), has called for the investigation of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, some past Governors and other stakeholders of Kogi State, for what it described as "questionable takeover of Obajana Cement Company PLC" by Dangote Industries Limited/Dangote Groups and economic sabotage of Kogi people and Nigerians.

This was contained in a petition dated 12th October, 2022 and addressed to the Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa. The letter was signed by the State Cordinator, Ojonugwa O. Samuel and Secretary, Usman Audu.

The anti-graft agency has also acknowledged the receipt of the petition, in a letter dated 12th October, 2022 and signed on its official letter head paper by the receiving officer.

"We crave your Commission’s intervention to investigate the issues around the illegal takeover of Obajana Cement Company by Dangote Group especially against the criminal acts exposed by the report of the Specialized Technical Committee on the Evaluation of the Legality of the Alleged Acquisition of Obajana Cement Company Plc by Dangote Cement Company Limited", the group told EFCC Chairman.

The petitioners stressed further that, in the findings of the technical committee, "the purported agreements transferring Obajana Cement Company plc from the Kogi State Government to Dangote Industries Limited were found to be invalid and null and void because of absence of consideration for the Kogi State Government. This suggests that there have been forgeries committed to steal the company from the state government.

"In the number of years that Dangote Industries Limited illegally operated Obajana Cement Company plc, it never remitted dividends to the Kogi State Government, which suggests that revenue belonging to the people of Kogi State was stolen from 2003 till date.

"The curious and illegal assumption of tax holiday from the Kogi State Government when this was beyond the remit of the state as it is a matter for the Federal Government. We are afraid that Dangote Industries Limited has shortchanged the Federal Government of vital revenue under the pretext that it got tax waiver/holiday when in reality this was never the case. This is a loss of revenue for Nigerians.

"Dangote Industries Limited, after having used the three Certificates of Occupancy (Cs of O) issued to it to raise an N63 billion loan, attempted to obtain a single C of O that would have covered the ones it had assigned to its creditors. This is a flagrant attempt to defraud the state government and the entities it obtained the loan from. Meanwhile due process was not followed in Dangote Industries Limited’s merging of the three Cs of O."

The group alluded that, Dangote Industries Limited committed these acts in collusion with certain former state officials, including former governors of Kogi State who must now be held to account. Though no name of past Governors was mentioned in the petition.

According to the petition, "after the Kogi State Government took steps to remedy the defects that led to the illegal acquisition of Obajana Cement Company Plc, Dangote Industries have gone on the offensive to intimidate state officials from recovering the company for the people of Kogi state. An audio recording of a meeting of officials of Dangote Industries Limited exposed how they have forged documents to defend their tenuous claim to Obajana Cement Company plc.

"Their plot also includes taking steps to sabotage the Nigerian economy in their bid to shut down Kogi state by obstructing traffic flow in strategic areas. Implementing this dangerous plot would bring hardship to the people of Kogi state but will hurt the Nigerian economy worse than it would inflict pain on the state.

"These officials have also reportedly offered bribes to certain key persons to sway decisions on the cement plant in favour of Dangote Industries Limited. This is amounts to inducement of public office holders, which has no place in our democracy".

The group therefore, urged the EFCC to "investigate Dangote Industries Limited, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, past and present senior officials of Dangote Industries Limited with links to the questionable deal, former Kogi State officials and former governors with links to the transactions".

In view of the potential revenue loss for the Federal Government, the petitioners also urged the EFCC to extend the investigation to all states where the Dangote Group has operations, "as we have cause to suspect that this company has used other state governments to grant itself federal tax waivers, thereby leading to revenue loss".

The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, has advised members of the public to discountenance any statements emanating from the discredited former chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu and his team.

Kachikwu said this in reaction to an illegal convention conducted by the former chairman which purportedly granted him a fresh tenure of office after holding same position for seventeen years.

He wondered how someone who only recently claimed he was granted a one year extension by a special convention at the end of August could now conduct another special convention in October for the same purpose. According to Kachikwu it is clear Nwosu enjoys conducting conventions having done so for the last seventeen years.

He further stated that the Senator Patricia Akwashiki led ADC would soon hold a convention to usher in a new set of executives who would lead the party to victory in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.

END

The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission, Rev Yakubu Pam and the Inspector-General of Police, Alkali Usman, have been shortlisted for awards of excellence.

United Kingdom-based media group, TheNigerian News, made the disclosure on Tuesday in a statement.

While Pam was nominated as 'Champion of Peace', the IGP will be recognised as 'Champion of Security'.

According to a statement signed by Toby Prince, the management said the pair were the overwhelming choice of its online voters based on its core values of integrity, patriotism and excellence.

Toby described Pam as a unifier, nationalist and ambassador of peaceful co-existence across the country.

"A detribalized Nigerian, our committee has been impressed by how he committed resources and time to preach unity, peace and tolerance," he said.

"He is a bridge between the rich and the poor, Christian and Muslim as well as the north and southern Nigeria. As the NCPC boss and leader of the Christian community, his emphasis has been on one indivisible nation, insisting on love over hate, peace over war and unity over division".

On the choice of the IGP, he added " it is no secret that the security situation in the country has been significantly stabilized despite the occasional isolated cases of crimes and threats to public safety, peace and security in some parts.

"This has been achieved by the IGP's strategic operations and collaboration with the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security and intelligence agencies in the country to spur a common front aimed at reducing crime and criminality nationwide.

"The public image of the Force has also improved. A thoroughbred police officer, he mended the fences between the police and members of the public who no longer regarded the police as their friends."

Pam and IGP Alkali will be conferred with their awards at an event to mark the company's sixth anniversary in Abuja.

Toby noted that the ceremony will be held on October 13th at the International Conference Centre Abuja.

Other distinguished Nigerians billed to receive awards are Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Mr Inuwa Abdullahi, the Director General/Chief Executive Officer (DG/CEO) of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Prof Abdullahi Mustapha, the Director General of the National Biotechnology Development Agency, Prof Saad A. Ahmed, the Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre Abuja, Mr Oluwaseun Adebola Olatunji, the founder and CEO of Brookfield Group among others.

A lecture with the title "Identifying Genuine Spirit of Excellence and Patriotism Towards A Greater Nigeria" will be delivered by Chief Innocent Audu Ogbeh, the former Minister of Agriculture, who is the guest speaker.

Anti-corruption activists protest in Abuja, back Kogi govt's take-over of Obajana cement

A group of anti-corruption activists, on Tuesday, held a mass rally against what it described as fraudulent take-over of Obajana Cement by Dangote Group.

The activists, under the aegis of Mass Action Against Corruption, accused the company of economic exploitation and terrorism against innocent Nigerians in Kogi.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Cecilia Ikechukwu, said "Alhaji Aliko Dangote fraudulently acquired Obajana Cement Company without any evidence of payment for the said 90% of shares from the state government".

"The recent revelation that all of these contractual obligations were not met by Dangote Industries Limited, yet claimed full ownership of the Obajana Cement Company, can be described as the greatest fraud of the century," Ikechukwu added.

"The Technical Committee setup by the state government to unravel the ownership of the Obajana Cement Company highlighted this much. And the findings were mind-boggling. It must be noted that the mining certificate for Obajana Cement Company belongs to the Kogi State government. There is no evidence that the Kogi State government transferred ownership of the mining sites to Dangote Industries.

"There is also no evidence that for the alleged 90% transfer of shares of Obajana Cement to Dangote Industries, there was any form of payment to the state government for the alleged acquisition.

"The only known contribution of Dangote Industries to the Obajana Cement was sourcing funding for the project using documents belonging to the Kogi State government. It is, therefore, our considered opinion that it was indeed a case of fraudulent acquisition, and it must be reversed immediately.

"We salute the courage of the Kogi State House of Assembly for instituting this probe, which from all intent and purposes, was done in good faith in reclaiming the commonwealth of the Kogi people from the exploitative Alhaji Aliko Dangote and his partners in crime".

The group, therefore, called on the Federal Government to stand with the "state in this clear case of fraudulent acquisition of a state government property and the attendant exploitation over several years".

Ikechukwu added, "We believe that Alhaji Aliko Dangote should be able to provide evidence that he paid monies to the Kogi State government for Obajana Cement. And if he can't provide such proof, Obajana Cement's ownership must revert automatically to the state government".

The activists, however, advised Dangote to desist from any form of tyranny against the government and people of Kogi state, adding that his antics of promoting violence across the state have been noted and documented for onward transmission to the relevant security agencies in the country.

Ikechukwu said, "We are in total agreement with the Kogi State government for payment of all outstanding liabilities and compensation to Kogi State and the full ownership of Obajana Cement. All well-meaning Nigerians must resist the economic exploitation of Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
The commonwealth of the people of Kogi State must be returned to the state, and Alhaji Aliko Dangote must be prosecuted for economic and financial crimes in the fraudulent acquisition of Obajana Cement.

"We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure justice is served in this fraud and horrendous exploitation case. We also call on the National Assembly to support the Kogi State House of Assembly in ensuring that the wrong committed by Alhaji Aliko Dangote in Kogi State is reversed with immediate effect.

''We salute the courage displayed by the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello. He is the epitome of passion and commitment to service. His bravery and dedication to the cause of the state are commendable.".

By Alfred Adasu

Dangote Cement Plc is in the news and for the wrong reason. The alleged acquisition of Obajana Cement Company in Kogi State. I was fortunate to stumble upon the report by the technical committee set up by the Kogi State government over the 100% ownership of the cement factory by Dangote Industries Limited.

There were indeed infractions by Dangote Industries, and the manner it had carried on since the beginning of the conflict has been most worrisome. They have resorted to spreading falsehood and threatening blackmail. I was a bit worried and curious. I was worried that the conflict was getting violent and curious as to why Dangote Cement Plc would attempt to cow the Kogi State government into submission regarding its ownership of Obajana Cement Company.

I am aware that several invitations extended to the management of Dangote Cement Plc by the Kogi State House of Assembly to appear before it was ignored. If the acquisition of Obajana Cement Company were legal, I do not see any reason why Dangote Cement Plc would elect to play the cat-and-mouse game.

Indeed something is fishy with the deal hence the attempt at distorting the facts by Dangote Cement. It is impunity of the highest order for a company to enter into a partnership with a state government and use the documents of the state to source funding for the project. After the take-off of the business, he changed names and claimed 100% ownership.

Dangote Cement went further also to claim ownership of the mining sites in the state. I am at a loss with this position. This is a criminal offence, in my considered opinion. And I expect the relevant security agencies to prosecute Alhaji Aliko Dangote for economic crimes. I won't be shocked if that is how he succeeded in building his business empire.

I am also shocked by the findings in the report that Dangote Cement had not paid a penny to the Kogi State government since the inception of the cement factory. I wonder how this eluded the previous administration. Maybe, they were in connivance with Alhaji Aliko Dangote to impoverish the people of Kogi state.

I also align with the position of the Kogi State House of Assembly that the purported sale of Obajana Cement Company by the state government was not ratified by the State House of Assembly, which is statutory and a requirement for the sale of government property.

The sale remains nullity as it does not exist in the eyes of the law. This is supposedly why Dangote Cement had resorted to crude means, including instigating violence in the state to cover its tracks. This is such an incomprehensible move only made by people who are experts in exploitation. I dare say Alhaji Aliko Dangote falls under such a category. Those who know his business strategy readily say he is the king of cutting corners. He cuts deals, not minding whose ox is gored. He hoodwinks governments into dancing to his whims and caprices regarding policies that would guarantee him monopoly in businesses he is involved in.

Under Governor Yahaya Bello, Kogi State would be a hard nut to crack. Either he does the right thing or continues to live in self-denial. Kogi state has a solid case. I think he is lucky the state is willing to come to the table to resolve issues, and it is expected that he should grab the opportunity with both hands; instead of attempting to fight dirty in case, it is deficient.

He might have made concessions to previous governors of the state in the events leading to the contractual agreement, but they are not in the state's interest, which is a point I think should be highlighted. If that is not the case, how can you explain a situation where the state government would grant tax holidays outside its constitutional mandate? This emphasizes that lots of underground dealings might have happened without the approval of the State House of Assembly.

This is where I salute the resoluteness of the Kogi State House of Assembly in instituting the probe into the ownership of the Obajana Cement Company. And Dangote Cement has been eloping from one end to another with fairytales that defeat common sense and insults the sensibilities of the people of Kogi state.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote must come out clean in the case. He must state things the way they are and admit that it is indebted to the Kogi State government and cannot claim 100% ownership of Obajana Cement. I believe that a clear conscience fears no accusation. Therefore, the onus lies on Dangote Cement to counter the position of the Kogi State government by appearing before the State House of Assembly to answer questions that are of utmost importance regarding the alleged acquisition of a state government property.

This case isn't as complicated as Dangote Cement would want members of the unsuspecting general public to believe. It is about admittance to a wrong and coming to the table to right the wrong. There is no proof of payments made for acquiring Obajana Cement by Dangote Industries. There is also no proof that Dangote Cement has paid any dividend to the Kogi State government from inception till date. This is food for thought.

Adasu is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

Obajana Cement: Group chides Dangote Company over plot to destabilize peace in Kogi


The Coalition for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has accused the management of Dangote Cement of a plot to disrupt the peace and security in Kogi State over the government's insistence to recover its shares in the company.

The group said rather than address the issues raised by the state government, the company has resorted to name-calling and underarm tactics ultimately causing turmoil and threat to the security.

The Coalition for Truth and Justice made this known in a statement today by its Secretary-General, Comrade Musa Attah.

Speaking at a press conference, Attah said: "The absurd has been playing out since the Kogi State Government recently sealed the cement company in Obajana, Kogi state. The company was originally Obajana Cement Company Plc but then renamed Dangote Cement Company Plc, and its ownership is at the centre of the ongoing contention between the state and Dangote Industries.

"Let us state from the onset that we are shocked that rather than addressing the weighty issues contained in the documents that the Kogi State Government has released to the public, Dangote Industries rather resorted to name-calling and underarm tactics. The worrisome component of this underarm tactics is that Dangote Industries is yet to satisfactorily refute the claims by the Kogi state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, that the company held a clandestine meeting at which it plotted to sabotage the state using federal might.

"The dangerous plot includes actions to disrupt the peace and destabilize Kogi State over the insistence of the state to recover its shares in the company. These planned activities by the Dangote Group of Company will have far reaching effects. Considering that the plan of using Dangote trucks to block the flow of traffic for instance would hamper recovery from the fuel shortages caused by the disruptions from the flooding of road that had prevented haulage of petrol.

"Dangote Industries has been peddling stories that suggest that its operation in Obajana was the product of a mob action sanctioned by the Kogi State Government. But we have discovered that there were fora, including a public hearing and a judicial commission of inquiry into the conduct of public officers in Kogi state between May 29, 2003, and January 27 2016. Liman Salihu Esq. was counsel for Dangote Cement plc/Obajana Cement Company at the inquiry. The report of that inquiry, which found evidence of shady dealings, recommended the constitution of a specialized technical committee to evaluate the entire transaction on Obajana Cement Company Limited.

"The resulting Specialized Technical Committee on the Evaluation of the Legality of the Alleged Acquisition of Obajana Cement Company Plc by Dangote Cement Company Limited concluded that the transfer of Obajana Cement Company Plc to Dangote Industries Limited was invalid, null, and void. That Committee’s report went on to ask the Kogi State Government to take steps to recover Obajana Cement Company Plc now changed to Dangote Cement Company Plc situated in Obajana Kogi state. It further recommended that the state government should recover all accrued dividends with interest while canceling existing Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) issued to Dangote Industries.

"We noted the several criminal behaviour of Dangote Industries, which is not surprising knowing that this is the modus operandi of this criminal enterprise in all the sectors in which it plays and across all the jurisdiction where it operates. This unwholesome behaviour includes securing tax holiday from a past administration in Kogi state when in reality a state government cannot grant such waiver as this the prerogative of the Federal Government. Dangote Industries obtained loans to the tune of N63 billion using the C of O of Obajana Cement Company, then tried to obtain a fresh C of O (one that would merge three existing C of O that it has already used as collaterals). To put this in perspective, a fresh C of O would have left the lending banks holding on to worthless papers while the Kogi state government would have lost all claims to the stolen cement company.

"So desperate is Dangote Industries that even its application for the new C of O was adjudged to have not followed due process especially when it is also glaring that state government retains the right to mineral sites that it is mining raw materials for cement manufacturing from".

The group, therefore, advised the company to "halt further attacks on the people and government of Kogi", adding that if the company thinks that it has a claim to Obajana Cement Company plc, in spite of the documents released by the state government, it should go to court.

"We warn that on no account should Dangote trucks obstruct traffic flow in any part of Kogi state. Even if any of its truck suffers a malfunction it must tow it to a conducive location within 30 minutes in order not to cause a gridlock. In addition to resolving the ownership issue and reclaiming unpaid dividends owed the people, we urge the Kogi State government to use the window of the ongoing crisis to identify and address other issues for which Dangote Industries must be held to regulatory account. This includes matters like damage to the environment and taking responsibility for the health damage its operations might have caused residents of communities that are contiguous to its operations.

"We advise other states where Dangote Industries operate to urgently review transactions entered into with the company by their past administration so that they can remedy any identified lapses since the company has proven to be addicted to policy manipulation and government capture.

"We urge the Federal Government to take steps to restore citizens’ confidence and prove that Dangote Industries does not own Nigeria as the company’s officials were captured on tape as saying at the meeting where they plotted to sabotage Kogi state and by extension the whole of Nigeria.

"We urge the people of Kogi State to unite along party, ethnic and sectarian lines to support their government in addressing the excesses of a monster that has too often made their state a killing field in its pursuit of profit".

The CGGT, however, vowed to continue to monitor the development in Kogi state and will respond as necessary.

It warned that should "Dangote Industry continue its acts of aggression against the people and government of Kogi sate, we shall start campaign for Nigerians to boycott the company’s products and also target organizations that use its products as raw materials".

*Group condemns Kogi govt over invasion of Dangote cement factory with thugs*

The Nigeria Good Governance Action Group (NGGAG) has condemned the "unwarranted" invasion of the Dangote Cement factory in Kogi State.

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Comrade Arome Ainoko, the group, however, advised the government to "concentrate on making lives of the people better and not create more hardship by disrupting the activities of the company".

"The Nigeria Good Governance Action Group views with utter consternation the recent invasion of the Dangote Cement Company in Obajana, Kogi State. It has been uncovered that by that unprovoked mayhem visited on the company by the Kogi State Government and House of Assembly at prompting of Governor Yahaya Bello, there are some sinister motives up their sleeves," Ainoko said.

"This act is an armature, macabre, abysmally incomprehensible and unthinkable in a 21st-century democratic order. This crude and archaic act can scare potential investors from coming to the State.

"More worrisome is the report that about Twenty-Six (26) persons were shot during the invasion of the company's premises at Obajana, by Vigilantes hired by the state government.

"This act is heart-wrenching and irresponsible and must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians and Kogites in particular. During the crude invasion in a Gestapo style, the smooth operations of the company were interrupted. It is unthinkable that at this moment of extreme economic hardship, the State Assembly would allow itself to be used by Governor Bello to aggravate the hardship Kogites are currently facing, due to the failure of his government.

"With these reckless actions of the State government, thousands of workers and their families have been thrown into disarray. Thousands of others, who provide value-chain services, are also rendered jobless.

"The probe over the acquisition of the Cement Company by Dangote is not just laughable but a deliberate ploy by the Kogi State government to throw the state into chaos especially the youthful population of the state that has been gainfully employed by the company".

The group, therefore, called on the state government to "immediately reopen the sealed factory and desist from further harassing the staff of the company".

ADC Former Chairman in Trouble as Police Writes INEC over forgery and fraud allegation.


Former chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Ralph Nwosu may soon be in serious trouble with the police going by a document sighted by one of our sources. The police have written the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over forgery, fraud, and diversion of party funds.

Ralph, who was the former chairman of the ADC for over 17 years, is accused of forging documents and diverting party funds.

Our source further indicates that Chief Ralph Nwosu would have used his position as chairman of ADC during his tenure to have diverted large amounts of money belonging to ADC for personal use the source revealed.

ADC dismisses purported expulsion of key leaders by its ex-National Chairman, Nwosu

The interim national leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), on Saturday, dismissed the purported expulsion of some of its key national leaders by the immediate past National Chairman of the party, Ralphs Okey Nwosu.

The interim National Chairman of the Party, Senator Patricia Akwashiki, in a statement described the action of the erstwhile chairman, Nwosu, as the antics of a sinking man clutching at straws.

Akwashiki called on members of the party and indeed Nigerians to ignore the diversionary, divisive and destabilization activities of Nwosu who is presently lamenting over spilt milk like a whipped child.

She insisted that the ADC would not be distracted by the actions of Nwosu and his hirelings now masquerading as genuine officers of the party.

Akwashiki said: “Nwosu is the former chairman whose tenure has elapsed who now seeks to pull the party down because he failed in his bid to extend his tenure after 17 years as party chairman.

“All expulsions and suspensions from Nwosu and his cabal are merely diversionary and a face saving measure as he faces investigation for fraud, forgery and impersonation by the Nigeria Police.

“The general public is therefore advised to ignore any statements emanating from Nwosu or any member of the former National Working Committee.

“Chief Ralph Nwosu has approached the courts to challenge his removal, so, he is advised to wait for the court ruling and stop making a fool of himself.

“The party reiterates that ADC is not for sale and won’t enter into any alliance, so buyer beware!”

Akwashiki added: “Anything that has a beginning must have an end. Nwosu had been chairman of our great party for 17 years and we thank him for the services he has rendered.

“Now he is no more due to the need to reorganize the party and put her on a sound footing to win elections.

“To continue to arrogate power and cloth himself with borrowed robes amount to impersonation which can only emanate from grand delusion.

“The ADC has moved on. Nwosu had better wake up to reality. The constitution of the party is supreme and there is no provision therein for a life national chairman.”

END

Signed


Senator Patricia Akwashiki
Interim National Chairman of ADC

Coalition passes vote of confidence on Yahaya Bello, dismisses PDP's terrorism tag on Bello's administration

The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello in Kogi State.

Describing the terrorism claims of the People's Democratic Party as puerile propaganda attempt, the group said the governor has made concerted efforts to secure the lives and properties of indigenes and residents.

The National Democratic Coalition made this known on Monday at a press conference in Abuja.

In his address, national president, Dr. Sam Ogaba, said the allusion that Governor Bello was planning to unleash violence in the state in the buildup to the general elections is a figment of the imagination of the state chapter of the PDP, and by extension the PDP.

He said the statement credited to Alhaji Bello was blown out of proportion and a ploy to cover for the nefarious activities of the party in the state which necessitated the stern warning.

"It must be stated unequivocally that Governor Yahaya Bello has remained one of the bastions of our democracy. He has exhibited this much through his laudable contributions to enhancing democratic ideals in the country
over the years," Ogaba said.

"In its desperation to cause disaffection amongst Nigerians before the elections, it is our opinion that the PDP has elected to cry foul where none exists. The PDP must come to terms with the reality that Governor Yahaya Bello has distinguished himself as a true patriot. As such, he cannot be viewed as going against the tenets of democracy.

"However, it must be stated that as the Chief Security Officer of Kogi State, he is constitutionally mandated to ensure the safety of lives and properties of the citizens of the state, an act that he has demonstrated with unalloyed finesse to the commendation of all and sundry".

Ogaba, therefore, advised the PDP to desist "from such an ignoble campaign to draw Governor Yahaya Bello into its quagmire as the elections approach".

He added, "To think that the PDP could throw caution in the winds in its statement is an indication that all is not well within the ranks of the party, that we are tempted to believe that disparaging men and women of goodwill in the country is a strategy adopted to bounce back to public reckoning.

"Consequently, the National Democratic Coalition wishes to use this medium to advise the PDP to desist from the puerile propaganda attempt against Governor Yahaya Bello. This is in light of the fact that the allegation was in poor taste and lacked merit.

"The PDP must also come to terms with putting its house in order first before casting a stone on others. Needless to say, the PDP has been enmeshed in a crisis of confidence due to a lack of direction of objectives".

The National Democratic Coalition, however, urged the "general public to be cautious of statements from the PDP, as it has been established that the PDP is all out for a propaganda campaign aimed at heating the polity and causing untold embarrassment to perceived stumbling blocks to their quest for power again".

Ogaba further described Bello as a bastion of democracy in Nigeria, adding that his disposition to national issues has been exemplary.

Gov Fayemi, others proffer solutions to address Nigeria's poor education standards

.....appalling state of Nigeria’s education sector is unacceptable.

To tackle the challenge of out-of-school children, experts and stakeholders in the nation’s education sector have called for the reworking of the funding model of the education sector in the country.

The call was made at a national dialogue on education organized by Policy House and TIFA-CDI, to mark this year’s ‘World Literacy Day’, annually celebrated on September 8.

The stakeholders said the appalling state of Nigeria’s education sector is unacceptable.

Declaring the event open, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Governor of Ekiti State, and Director General of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, maintained that despite various federal and state governments expending huge amounts of funds on education, children in schools are not learning anything.

“This certainly is nothing but a waste of investment,” he said.

Fayemi, who was represented by Dr. Bolaji Abdulla, a former Minister of Youth and Sport, however, emphasized the need for the decentralization of education funding, to tackle issues such as the recurring industrial actions of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU.

On his part, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of TiFA-CDI. Abdulkareem Tsafe noted that poor investment in the nation’s education sector has forced many professionals to dump teaching and other careers in the education sector.

He how, ever, said their organization will strongly advocate for a responsible and sustainable budgeting system in Nigeria, with a special focus on basic education and special emphasis on the educationally disadvantaged, among others.

Convener of the dialogue, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, in his welcome address, urged governments to unbundle the whole appropriation architecture, particularly for the education sector, given prevailing security challenges.

Other speakers at the event, in their goodwill remarks, tasked the government and relevant stakeholders in the nation’s education sector to evolve pro programs that will assiduously tackle illiteracy and the menace of out-of-school children, with checkmating insecurity.

By Philip Agbese


I think we have a way of mixing up issues in the country. This has been a common attribute. I wasn't surprised when reactions poured in concerning the contract awarded to a firm to secure critical oil infrastructures in the country.

The fact that the government thought of ways to reduce oil theft should be commended, even on the heels that the country loses hundreds of billions of dollars yearly to oil theft. Instead, the rumour mills went agog for the wrong reasons, giving it a religious and ethnic colouration.

Let me start with these scary facts: Nigeria loses about $1.9 billion monthly to the activities of oil vandals, with its attendant effect on environmental degradation. Of the 141 million barrels produced in the first quarter of 2022, only about 132 million barrels of oil were received at export terminals. Crude oil theft has increased to a daily average of 108,000 barrels in the first quarter of 2022 from 103,000 barrels in 2021.

The theft resulted in the declaration of force majeure at Bonny Oil & Gas Terminal, a pipeline transporting crude from the Niger Delta to export vessels, creating a hostile environment and disincentive to investors.

If these facts do not call for concern, I wonder what else would do. Hence it could suffice to say that the government's contract to secure critical oil infrastructures is a step in the right direction. But those benefitting from the theft are neck-deep in spreading falsehood about the government's intention.

Their spin doctors have raised the propaganda to a very high level. But they forgot that the contract was not awarded to an individual but to a firm that has demonstrated capacity in times past. Obviously, the focus is Mr Government Ekpemupolo, better known as Tompolo. And I dare say, and so what?

Is Tompolo not a Nigerian? Does his company have the capacity to deliver? Was the process that led to the award of the contract transparent? Did the government act in the right direction? If the answers to the above questions are yes, then there is no justification for the reactions that greeted the contract.

I believe there are terms of reference for the execution of the contract and not a bazaar or jamboree, as some would want unsuspecting members of the general public to believe. Let's not forget that the bulk of these critical oil assets is in the Niger Delta region, and the possible solution should be inwards and to someone that understands the dynamics of the Niger Delta region.

The award of the contract, in my opinion, is a masterstroke. It goes a long way in expressing the government's seriousness in addressing the threat posed by oil theft to our economy. We need to reflect on some of our actions as Nigerians. Everything should not be about politics. This stance has led us nowhere and would not now. It is about practical and indigenous solutions to our challenges.

It is also about ensuring that government oil earnings improve. One of the ways to go about that is ensuring that our oil infrastructures are secured. The production capacity of our country can increase, and the country would be better for it. In tackling this kind of security challenge that oil installations face anywhere in the world, the paramount consideration is usually what and how it can be done and not who is doing it.

Some might what to argue about the role of the Nigerian Navy, and the question I would like to ask is why the problem has persisted despite the presence of the Navy. There are apparent lapses because of the terrain and other complexities, which is the gap the private contractors would fill. Let me also state that the Navy has not been completely taken out of the equation, but rather the coming onboard of private contractors is to assist and complement because the overarching objective is to secure the country's oil assets.

And I beg to ask, what is the role of religion or ethnicity in protecting oil infrastructures? Sometimes I feel we are not serious in this country. I also wonder if we think through some of our public outbursts. Why would any individual or group think a contract of such magnitude and complexity would be awarded without due process and terms of reference?

This is indeed a sad tale. It goes a long way in stating that those vested interests that have milked the country dry through oil theft are angry and would go any length to jeopardize the government's efforts in this regard. But I think they failed and woefully. The truth remains that we cannot afford oil theft of such magnitude at this critical point of our existence, with various sectors of the economy demanding attention.

The era of monies meant for the country being diverted to private pockets must stop. And these thieves can go to hell for all we care. What matters to us is the country's interest, which has happened. I must commend the leadership of the NNPC for taking the bull by the horns. I, therefore, beg to disagree with anyone insinuating that the contract should be cancelled simply because Tompolo is from a particular part of the country. That would be a joke of the century, potentially making Nigeria a laughing stock.

I think we should concentrate our energies on measuring results rather than calling for the cancellation of the contract. This is rational. But as they say, common sense is not common. I think the NNPC has acted in good faith, and it behoves well-meaning Nigerians to ensure that the effort at securing the country's critical oil assets succeeds. My one cent.

Agbese is a human rights activist based in Abuja.

PURPORTED SUSPENSION OF ADC STATE CHAIRMEN: MEMBERS OF THE EXPIRED NWC ERRED ON EVERY KNOWN LAW OF THE PARTY AND NIGERIA


....... The tenure of the NWC expired in August 2022

The growth and survival of democracy as a system of government representing the aspirations of the people is a function of the existence of a variety of vibrant political parties for the citizens to choose from during periodic elections.


The case in Nigeria has been that the so-called bigger parties use the smaller ones to legitimize their anti-people stranglehold on the levers of power through financial inducement and planting of crises in the newer political parties.

While the Nigerian ruling class has continually pushed the argument that the internal affairs of political parties are their business to cover up their less than noble objectives for being in politics, it is clear that political parties are public institutions governed by laws of the land, from their registration through to conduct.

It is as custodians of public interest, and conviction that our democracy is best served by broadening the political space and allowing for diverse voices to be heard that we make this intervention in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

We are concerned that a section of the former NWC whose tenure expired in August with sinister motives, will now purportedly suspend some state chairmen of the ADC, over vague references to ‘anti-party activities’ by the chairmen.

We are equally disheartened that the conduct of these characters further fuels the dangerous narrative that the supposed alternative political platforms are no different from the frontrunners in the political space; a claim that is dangerously false and factually lacking in substance.

It is worrying that the leadership of the party, which had not made any measurable impact during its time at the helm of the party, was so desperate to hold onto the reins that they would go to such disgraceful lengths to spit their nose to spite their face.

By the constitution of the party, the national chairman and NWC members are to hold office for not more than 2terms of four years each, whereas the former chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu, had been in office for 17years until the end of August 2022 when his most recent tenure expired.

It is no surprise, given his antecedents as a political mercenary, that Chief Nwosu chose to turn against the only brightest spot in the party, its presidential candidate, who has done so much to remake the party in the consciousness of the people as a serious contender for the 2023 elections and beyond at all levels of government.

Chief Ralph Nwosu and his co-travelers will incur the wrath of Nigerians if they do not desist from their antics of trying to keep the ADC a small fish in the political ocean of Nigeria at a time Nigerians are warming up to the idea of associating with the party.


Chief Nwosu and his NWC members whose tenure has expired will be well advised to retrace their steps and give the ADC room to breathe, in a clear departure from the wasted 17 years of the locusts that were his leadership of the party.

The laws are very clear and the laws, including a party constitution he was part of enacting, state that his tenure is over and his exco stands dissolved.

We urge his excellency the presidential candidate Mr. Kachikwu, and other candidates under the platform of the ADC to continue their reorientation work as the people have confidence in their manifesto and ideas around governance, having tried the current ruling class time and again, and being disappointed.

In a bid to address the growing challenge of out-of-school children, the European Union, World Bank and the Federal Government have agreed to participate at a one day national dialogue to review the budgeting trajectory for education In Nigeria

The event is being organised by Policy House and TiFA CDI in celebration of the 2022 International Literacy Day.

In a statement ahead of the event scheduled for September 8, Mr Akerele, the Executive Director of TiFA CDI said the Board of Trustees in their quarterly meeting having looked at the worsening situation of the education sector especially in the area of infrastructure, teacher training, school feeding and others such as technology decided to convey a session for major stakeholders such as the government, CSOs, development partners and other to sit down and review the issues in the sector.

According to the executive Director, his organisation is in touch with UBEC, NGF, EU and the World bank on how to tackle these issues, saying that with consistent engagement there will be solutions soonest.

In his words, "But first we must debate the issues and then chat about the next steps."

Although the government has argued in some quarters that there is improvement in the budgetary performance of the sector, and in fact also argued that recent data shows that the number of out of school children have reduced, Mr Akerele said
independent data has not supported this assertion.

According to him, UNICEF in their 2020 report, stated that one out of every five kids that is not in school in the world is a Nigerian child.

He, however said, it also shows that government is sensitive to the issues and this is commendable and must be encouraged.

He said there was need to interrogate how we got to the situation and what is the way forward especially as the country inch closer to the 2023 transition era.

The statement reads in part, "We are lucky to have assembled an array of great minds from the academia, CSOs, minister for planning, the world bank and the EU who have always stood by Nigeria in its trying times to come together under one umbrella including the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) to look at this issue very critically.


"One of the major issues for consideration during the session is why has education budget not performed beyond 35% over the years? What is happening to curriculum? What is the synergy between the states and the Nigerian government as it relates to the running of primary education? How is the counterpart funding arrangement been managed and how does the state inability to release its counterpart affect utilization of availed funds?"

He noted that the irony of it all is that the resources for basic education is available but there are key issues in accessing the funds by the state governments, adding that they also have challenges in utilization, deployment and impact evaluation.

He said further that the present weak infrastructure across the country in relation to primary education is a complete embarrassment to Nigeria.

"From our analysis, and research, we understand that 30% of Nigerian citizens cannot read and write at all, that is about 65m people. That is a country on its own, that alone is a drag on human development index.

"Those who cant read and write cannot choose their leaders wisely and cannot be part of the development process such as the economy and production. Don’t get me wrong, education is not all about being in the four walls of a western styled school.

"We have also looked at the annual budgeting system for the country, the budgeting system is more in favour of recurrent expenditures and running of government business than the core issues of education. For instance the UNESCO recommends 26% for education, most African countries don’t even do up to 10% that is too much for them, but even the 5% on the average they do, it does not perform beyond 35% over the years, so you can see that the crisis in the sector is not out of place its rooted deeply in the budgeting system that clearly prioritizes other sectors.

"We have always argued and insisted that only a declaration of a state of emergency in the sector can save or rescue the sector from a complete collapse, under this state of declaration, Mr President or the Governor of a state will have the full powers to jail any parent or guardian who refuses to send his or her child to primary school, under the law as well, the government will commit to fulfilling its own commitment to funding education especially quality teacher recruitment, continuous infrastructure renewal and investment in modern technologies etc. Our focus is even just basic education because for us that is the foundation. We are hesitant in delving into other levels of education such as secondary or tertiary.

Following the sack of former Chairman Ralph Nwosu, the national executive committee of the party has appointed Senator Naomi Akwachika as Chairman of a 7-man committee set up to organize convention and elect a new National Working Committee (NWC).

The decision was arrived at on Monday, September 5th, 2022 during an emergency NEC meeting held in Abuja.

More Details later.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has successfully concluded its national convention for 2022, where executives were elected to steer the affairs of the 40year old association for the next year. The convention had in attendance representatives of all tertiary institutions in Nigeria, including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and monotechnics, that comprise NANS, which is the umbrella body of all Nigerian students at home and in the diaspora.


The 2022 congress elected Comrade Adediwura Adeshina Ismail, of the FCT College Of Education, Zuba, as Senate President, being the first student in the FCT to hold such an exalted position in the Nigerian student movement. The legislative arm of the student movement comprises the Presidents of the Student Union Government of all tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Speaking after being declared the winner by the chairman of the election committee, the Senate President-elect, Comrade Adeshina, told journalists that “the election is a clear and unequivocal reflection of the will and aspirations of Nigerian students, who desire to see am upliftment in their welfare”. Comrade Adeshina further enjoined his fellow “students across Nigeria and in diaspora, to continue to be exemplary as they have been in the buildup to this convention and during the convention itself”.

While noting that “the education system is undergoing serious challenges like the rest of Nigeria and the whole world”, he assured that “the new NANS will continue to work with constructive minded stakeholders and honest actors in the system to ensure that all enemies of the nation are defeated and the students are given priority in all things pertaining to education”.

The executives will be sworn in, in the coming days to commence implementation of their programmes, beginning with comrade Adeshina described as “the immediate restoration of full academic activities in all tertiary institutions in Nigeria”.

…..Fingers INEC officials of complicity in tenure as elongation


The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikw, has accused the immediate past Ralph Nwosu-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party of trying to sell off the mandates of its election candidates to another political party despite the expiration of its tenure.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Saturday that was called to debunk his purported suspension from the party by the ex-national leadership, he insisted that the NWC stood dissolved because its tenure had ended with Nwosu serving for 17 unbroken years against the provision of the party’s constitution.

Flanked by Hon. Kingsley Temitope Ogga, Chairman of Chairmen Forum and Kogi State chapter chairman;


Kennedy Odion, Edo State chairman, and Manzo Ibrahim, ex-National Vice Chairman North East, the presidential flag bearer said the party was surprised at a statement made by Nwosu suggesting that he had been suspended.

He disclosed that Nwosu had pleaded initially for his tenure to be extended by one year, saying that when the party turned it down, he requested six months extension, which was also rejected by the ADC.

According to him, the former party boss attempted to hold an illegal Congress to extend his tenure with the connivance of some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but was stopped by the police.

Dumebi further said that the ADC had what he called a dubious record of trading its mandate in the 17 years that Nwosu had been at the helms, which he vowed would not be repeated under his watch.

He said Nwosu had also attempted to substitute his running mate without his knowledge and as well foist a Director General of the presidential campaign on the flag bearer.

Dumebi explained: “To give a background to what has been happening, the tenure of the immediate past NWC expired or elapsed on the 28 of last month (August). Prior to this, the former chairman sought an extension of elongation of his tenure. He had reached me directly and indirectly pleading for us to extend his tenure.

“For those of you who might not know, Chief Ralph Nwosu is the longest serving national chairman of a political party in the history of Nigeria and has held sway as the chairman of the ADC for the past 17 years.


“You must understand that this is contrary to the constitution of the ADC which stipulates that a chairman can only hold office for a maximum of two terms of four years each.

“For some reasons and for reasons best known to INEC, we don’t know how Nwosu was able to hold on to that position for the last 17 years.”

While noting that he had promised to uphold the constitution of the party as its presidential candidate, Dumebi stated: “My party, the ADC has been known in the past to have a dubious distinction as the party that traded the mandate of its candidates.

“In recent memory, we can remember the late (Dr Obadaiah) Mailafia, who was the last presidential candidate of the party and what happened to him when on Election Day, the party chose to support another party having traded his mandate.

“We saw that happen in so many elections where the party always traded its candidates and I have made it clear to them that under my watch as the presidential candidate of this party, my mandate is not negotiable and the mandate of any candidate in the party will not be negotiated.”

A statement issued on Friday by the

Deputy National Chairman (Politics) in the immediate past NWC, Dr Bamidele Ajadi, had announced the suspension of Dumebi accusing him of making a false, misguided and defamatory video.

By Anthony Kolawole

I have read with interest the recent accusations and counter-accusations between the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, on claims on the Paris Club refund. This has indeed generated heated exchanges that are somewhat a show of shame, in my estimated opinion.

I have long held the opinion that state governors have constituted themselves into principalities in the country. I dare say they are powerful and primarily responsible for some of the socio-economic challenges in the country. You could say they are a bunch of insincere folks who are only interested in anything that protects their insatiable interest, not minding whose ox is gored.

It must be noted that the issue of the Paris Club Refund has been a recurring decimal since the administration of former president Olusegun Obasanjo. Yes, consultants were engaged, and fees were agreed upon. It was beneficial to both parties as at then, and we were spared the agony of the media parade by the Nigeria Governors Forum.

What has changed? Elections are around the corner, and state governors are scooping monies from every avenue to plunge into political campaigns. This time around, the claims made by the consultants could not stand because it would affect their earnings. I wonder how any right-thinking person would claim that the consultants were due to be paid $418 million.

This time, the Attorney General of the Federation has been dragged into the issue as taking sides with the consultants for insisting that the terms and agreement reached must be obeyed. Recall that when the Paris Club refund was paid to the states, the governors initially made part payment to the consultants but later decided to stop payment while asking for an out-of-court settlement.

This development resulted in an appeal in the form of a request to the president to facilitate payment to the consultants. This request was consequently transmitted to the Office of the AGF for legal advice. According to the Attorney General of the Federation, after subjecting the request to necessary checks, it was discovered that there was no element of fraud involved. He stated that the indemnity of the governors was also sought and received, culminating in the decision to make the payment.

What I find curious in the ensuing melee and the claims made by the Nigerian Governors Forum is that the governors’ forum, comprising all the governors, sat, commonly agreed on the engagement of consultants to provide certain services for them relating to the recovery of the Paris Club. So, it was the governors’ forum under the federal government in the first place that engaged the consultants.
When eventually, successes were recorded associated with the refund, the governors collectively and individually presented a request to the federal government for the fund. And among the components of the claim presented for the federal government's consideration was a component related to the payment of these consultants that now constitute the subject of contention. So it implies that the governors in their own right recognized the consultants, recognized their claim and presented such claim to the federal government.

Now, this is the interesting part. When the claims were eventually processed and paid to the governors' forum, they, indeed, on their own, without the federal government's intervention, took steps to make part payments to the consultants, acknowledging their liability over same.

When they decided to stop the payment, the consultants instituted an action in court against the governors' forum. And what happened in court? They submitted to consent judgment. They asked and urged the court to allow them to settle out of court. This much was corroborated by the Federation's Attorney General when he recently stated that the court granted the governors an opportunity to settle out of court. They committed to terms of settlement in writing; they signed the terms of the settlement, agreeing and conceding that such payments be made to the consultants.

Hear him: "The president passed all the governors' requests to the Office of the Attorney General for consideration. I suggested to the president the face value of the judgement and the undertones associated with the consultancy services; in my opinion, the same treatment we meted to P&ID, let us subject this claim, the consent judgement, to an investigation by the agencies of the government.”

"Mr President approved; I directed the EFCC and DSS to look into these claims and report back to the office of the Attorney General. And these agencies reported and concluded that there was no problem, undertone associated with it and that the government may continue to sanction the payment.”

With the above, any discerning mind would conclude that the governors are trying to be clever by half unless the Governor's Forum acted without the consensus of the governors of the 36 states of the federation. And if that was the case, whose fault is it?

I think this is just a face-saving measure by the governors to cover their lack of defence in the whole matter. Therefore they are looking for a scapegoat in the Attorney General of the Federation.

Let’s call a spade a spade. Over the years, the Attorney General of the Federation has displayed an unalloyed commitment to discharging his duties. Little wonder the feats the Federal Ministry of Justice recorded in securing over 1,000 convictions on terrorism. Convictions have also been secured in 45 cases by the Complex Casework Group (CCG), maritime unit, and the special task force on electricity offences and across the 13 zonal offices of the ministry. The Justice Ministry had supported the federal government in various infrastructure-funding agreements, adding that the country currently grapples with a N329 billion funding gap, amongst a host of others.

He who comes to equity must come with clean hands. The Nigeria Governors Forum must spare us their tirade and own up to their failures regarding the Paris Club Refund. The Federation's Attorney General is the country's Chief Law Officer, and all and sundry must respect any matter that requires his legal advice.

I suggest that the Governors Forum seek an alternative strategy in vilifying the Attorney General of the Federation. This is dead on arrival.


Kolawole PhD wrote this piece from Nasarawa .

Kachikwu calls Tinubu great grandfather, Atiku - grandfather and Peter Obi - father.

In his opening remarks at the ongoing NBA conference, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Dumebi Kachikwu, referred to the trio of Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi as great grandfather, grand father and father.

He further said that if the panel session on Democratic Transitions in 21st Century Nigeria went on for another 5hrs the other candidates would not be able to proffer any solutions to the issues plaguing the nation saying they can’t give what they don’t have.

He bemoaned the fact that schools in Abuja had been shut down over security issues even though the Nigerian President lives in Abuja.

He wondered what part of Nigeria could then be considered safe.

Our successes in Lagos, Borno show we'll hit the ground running immediately, Shettima says at NBA conference


Nigerians should be sure of getting experienced leaders who will hit the ground running immediately from 29 May 2023, vice-presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress Kashim Shettima has said.

Shettima said this while representing the party’s presidential flagbearer Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Bar Association in Lagos on Monday.

According to a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity of the APC Presidential Campaign Council Bayo Onanuga, the achievements of the party in Lagos, Borno and other states will be replicated across the country by Tinubu and Shettima.

The former Borno State governor said despite the war situation in the North East, his time in charge witnessed a tremendous improvement in education in the state.

He said: “Nigerians have the capability to see through the worn-out rhetoric and sophistry of pretentious politicians.”

“Nigerians should follow the man who knows the road. From day one, we will hit the ground running. We’ll promptly address the issue of the economy, ecology, and security.

“And we have the antecedents. I built some of the best schools in Nigeria. Go to Borno and see wonders; you will never believe that it is a state in a state of war.

“So, we are going to replicate our achievements in Lagos, in Borno and some of the frontline states so that our nation will be a better place.

“The fundamental issue is pure leadership,” he said.

By Best Agbese

Having purposeful leaders in position of leadership will forever be a positive game changer in any catastrophical atmosphere existing in any nation; creating amazing changes in areas where least expected, making tedious tasks that seem simple, and leaving an indelible mark on the golden plate of history in any nation. The aforementioned aptly describes the person of Yakubu Pam adventure in the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission since he assumed leadership. Rev Yakubu Pam has a distinguishing personality for his numerous contributions to the entrenchment of peaceful coexistence amongst Nigerians.

Rev Yakubu Pam has proven himself an excellent man, a man of good faith and integrity before his appointment as the executive secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrimage Commission. Heading other bodies of the Christian faith, including the Northern part of the-Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Inter-Religious Council; and the Internally Displaced Persons, Rev Yakubu Pam had shown Nigerians what a peaceful man he is, without any media scandal in record, especially in a country where tribal war seems to abound. Rev Yakubu has remained detribalized, being for the unity and peace of the nation rather than choose a side to belong or fight for. This much he has diligently pursued in the past 30 years of his life, where he has been advocating for religious and ethnic harmony, especially in Northern Nigeria.

Rev Yakubu Pam is not a stranger to leadership. Hence, he hit the ground running since his well-deserved appointment as Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian pilgrim Commission, and his activated periodic strategic assessment and feedback mechanisms enhanced staff welfare and also engaged relevant stakeholders irrespective of religion. It is sufficient to add that before his appointment; he was the Chairman of the Plateau State Christian Pilgrims Board, a position where he distinguished himself by introducing institutional reforms that placed the board in good stead towards achieving its strategic mandate. Therefore, it’s not surprising how this much Rev Yakubu Pam has brought about in the NCPC. Even less than one year at the helm of affairs, his impact has been felt, and the fortunes of the Commission have taken a turn for the best.

Ingrained in his mind that the mission of the NCPC is to provide a conducive environment for the smooth airlifting of pilgrims to Holy sites and to ensure enhanced welfare, responsible leadership at all levels, Federal and States, for hitch-free pilgrimage exercise throughout the year; and to supervise any interested body or organisation for Christian Pilgrimage to the Holy sites globally, he undertook a strategic assessment on the NCPC, intending to identify different challenges, making NCPC significant to the nation, and to also lessen the religious burdens in our nation. He fired all cylinders toward fulfilling the mandate of the organization.

Rev Pam is a man with many parts, and he is also a man filled with passion for service to humanity. Perceiving the mandate to reinvigorate the operations of the NCPC within a record time, Rev Pam took up the challenge, and brought it to reality. If not for anything, Rev Yakubu Pam has entrenched the regime of transparency and accountability at the Commission, which has been a challenge in the Commission's operations for several years. That it has become possible within a short period indeed explains the leadership acumen of Rev Yakubu Pam and what it entails to be a leader with eyes on the ball.

Today, the NCPC is a success story. It is a result of the provision of sound leadership and their commitment to render service when it matters most, with the example different personalities like Rev Yakubu Pam presiding over many helms of affairs in this country, Nigeria will overcome her challenges faster than expected in no time.
Yakubu Pam evolutional act at the NCPC is naturally expected because of his track record that speaks volume of integrity, accountability and transparency. His vast knowledge of diplomacy saw him excel in the position of Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of Northern Nigeria (which includes the 19 Northern States and Abuja) from 2016 to date, Vice President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, 2013 to date and District superintendent, Jos mainland Assemblies of Nigeria, 2010 to date, including as Chairman, Plateau State Inter-Religious council; and Chairman, Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Committee, Plateau State, were contributory of how he has been able to turn the fortunes of the NCPC around and in record time.

We cannot but commend President Muhammadu Buhari for identifying such a man as Rev. Yakubu Pam for a leadership position in the country. It’s no doubt that he has not only reposed the confidence of Mr President, he has also set a standard for leadership in the country. This much has been stated in numerous forums by relevant stakeholders, whom have never been short of words for the transformation at the NCPC under Rev. Yakubu Pam. Rev Yakubu Pam falls under the category of silent achievers whose impact doesn't dot pages of newspapers. However, silently, he making exploits and making life more meaningful through the provision of purposeful leaders, different from some acclaimed leaders that are just social media vuvuzelas with little or no contribution to statecraft.

Rev Yakubu has restored transparency to the commission and since then has set the pace for better leadership in other parts of the country. Through his effective-strategic-leadership approaches, the number of pilgrims who disappear has greatly reduced from about 50 annually to 3. He has restored the people’s faith in having religious leaders in politics, and having them deliver promptly too. Since his appointment, he has also won a bunch of awards to further solidify the fact that he is not to be categorized with ceremonial leaders who see the position of leadership as a business for desperately seeking attention and ‘marketing’ opportunities to express their level of moral decadence and crass display of indecency.

Rev Yakubu Pam deserve accolades from all and sundry for his selfless service to humanity in the light of the above. He should not rest on his oars and refuse every temptation to deviate from the lofty standards he has set in the areas of transparency and accountability. Relevant stakeholders to realize that the task at hand is a collective one. As such, it is worth extending their support to the reforms introduced by the Yakubu Pam led administration at the NCPC.

His works are visible to the blind, and also audible to the deaf. He is speaking up, he is not a hypocritical leader, he speaks for Justice and for peace and oneness which are the core things that this nations seems to lack most of the time. His voice is fighting for humanity. Reverend Yakubu Pam has been one of the most accountable leaders that NCPC has ever had, his accountability is seen and has been recognized by all, indeed he has the traits of an excellent leader, and NCPC should be the happiest having to tap into his fountain of great leadership experiences.


Agbese is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

By Philip Agbese

The elections are around the corner, and the dust raised from the presidential primaries has finally settled. Winners have emerged and losers too. Some took the outcome in good strides, while others continued to sulk. This is normal with electoral activities in Nigeria.

There is a new case worthy of mention: the display of political maturity by Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, the Governor of Kogi State. I call it the generational phenomenon that places losing elections on the pedestal of the national interest.

Alhaji Yahaya Bello is one name that won't go away anytime soon. His foray into the presidential race brought a sense of belonging to the teeming youthful population in the country. He resonated with the hopes and aspirations of youths across the country. For the first time in our annals, we saw a colourful campaign based on ideas and the generational shift focus.

He is a man of rare courage and impeccable credentials. He is a man that detests mediocrity, little wonder his campaign was well received across the country. In truth, he was one of the prime candidates for the APC Presidential Ticket. But he lost, and the world didn't come to an end. Instead, he moved on with grace to the admiration of all and sundry.

Some expected that he would sulk. Some also expected that he would go against his party even in the face of provocation. But he chose a noble path meant for noble men alone. He embraced the winner and instantly donated his entire campaign structure to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including his campaign headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory.

Alhaji Bello reminds me of the apostle of politics without bitterness, Alhaji Ibrahim Waziri, who held that politics should not be a do-or-die affair and that there is life after politics. He said, “people insist on winning after putting in their resources and, at the end of the day, when they lose, they get disappointed.”

For him, “politics is like a race in the Olympics where if you don't get the gold, you get the bronze or silver and be satisfied even if you don't win. The fact that you're in the competition should be satisfying. He said as the loser, you look up at the person that won, not as the enemy, but as the lucky person who is saddled with the responsibility of leading the nation."

The above indeed summarizes the Yahaya Bello phenomenon in Nigeria. Since after the elections, he returned to his normal life in Kogi state, commissioning projects and focusing on his mandate to the Kogi people without fanfare.

There is a lot to learn from the Yahaya Bello example in leadership in Nigeria. His foray into the political landscape has changed how politics should be played. He demonstrated the highest level of statesmanship by congratulating the winner without fuss. With the benefit of hindsight, one would have imagined what would have happened had Yahaya Bello won the APC primaries. Your guess is as good as mine.

Alhaji Yahaya Bello is a game changer, and Nigerians should expect a bounce back to the national limelight of the phenomenal. The signs are there for all to see that his brand of politics is in the national interest and service to the country. If this weren't the case, we would have seen a bitter reaction after he lost the APC primaries. He stood tall amongst the lot that contested the primaries.

I think Nigeria is blessed to have such an individual come forward to offer himself to service to the country. I do not think his passion for the development of Nigeria has dwindled. I recall when the APC Presidential candidate visited him after the elections; his response was instructive and gave us an insight into the mind of Yahaya Bello. He said, “Today, I have collapsed my Presidential Campaign Organization. I’m donating my campaign organization secretariat to you. I’ve learnt a lot from the little lecture you gave to us. The younger ones won't see what elders see when they're in the valley."

This typifies how open he is to learn and to admit his shortcomings. How many politicians in the country can boast of such disposition? It can only be Yahaya Bello and a reason why Nigerians must identify with his brand of politics now and in the future. We need more Yahaya Bello in the country if we are desirous of making headway in our quest for sustainable growth and development.

We need leaders that are passionate about the country. We also need leaders whose aspirations are in the country's interest, not other considerations. And Yahaya Bello presents us with those attributes that are uncommon.

I agree with the phrase that the qualities that make a good leader are innate. You are either born with the skills it takes to be a leader, or you’re not. I dare say Yahaya Bello is a born leader because, over time, he has demonstrated these attributes. Love or hate him; he is in a class of his own. He is a phenomenon. He is a wonder to behold and a whiz-kid. He is a moving train with a destination to redefine leadership in the country.

Yahaya Bello is the future, and the future belongs to those who learn, unlearn and relearn. According to Lao Tzu, the ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, “Unlearning helps us to move past things that are no longer serving us. It helps us to finally say, “No, I don’t think so. Not anymore, and then move forwards with a new mindset.” Welcome to the world of Yahaya Bello.


Agbese is the APC House of Representatives Candidate for Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency and publisher of TheNigerian News.

Stakeholders warn against distraction of Niger Delta Minister, endorse NDDC Reforms



The Niger Delta Professionals Group, has warned against any form of distraction, to the Minister of Niger Delta and administration of agencies under the Ministry, saying such attempt, including a recent protest by some "disgruntled" employees of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) are the handiwork of corrupt individuals bent on seeing the collapse of NDDC and the various efforts of the President Muhammadu Buhari's, targeted at reposition the commission, for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta.

The group said Corruption, which has become a very dengerous cankerworm in the NDDC, is responsible for the sponsored protest against the Minister, Mr. Umana Okon Umana.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the group's Leaders, Comrade Atani John (Bayelsa), Olufemi Lawson (Ondo) Godspower Ologe (Delta) Paul Jasper (Rivers) Marylynne Omorodion and (Edo), said the antecedents of Mr Umana, is such that has given greater assurances of transformation, to the people of Niger Delta, and clear departure from the past, when the Ministry and the NDDC were a cesspool of corruption.

The statement further read, “We are appalled, by the show of shame, by the sponsored protesters and detractors of the Honorable Minister of Niger Delta, who are shamelessly rented to demand the removal of a man, whose very short term in office, has given series of indications, to the radical transformation to be experienced by our people in the region. We endorsed the ongoing reforms being initiated by Mr. Umana Umana, in line with the determination of President Buhari, to redeem the lost glory of the NDDC, and the Niger Delta Ministry."

"We are not unaware, that the efforts of Mr Umana, will be unsatisfying, to some politically stranded leaders in the region, including a recent past Minister, in the Ministry, and the few ones who believe in Corruption, as the trade mark.of the NDDC and are not willing to stop it, rather they could have the courage, to embark on these campaign of calumny, against Mr. Umana Umana.

"We wish to remind these 'crisis enterpreneurs' that it will no longer be business as usual, as we are willing, to continually support the initiatives of the Minister of Niger Delta, especially those aimed at repositioning the NDDC and ridding it of corruption."

The group said every well meaning citizens of the Niger Delta, must be ready to support every efforts, aimed at seeing an end, to corruption in NDDC.

"Today we are proud President Buhari's decision to appoint a competent hand, to rescue the Ministry and the NDDC, in person of Mr Umana Okon Umana, whom the people of the Niger Delta, are pleased with in the way and manner he is repositioning and fighting corruption, in the overall interest of our people." the statement concluded.

This is to bring to the attention of Stakeholders, the Security Agencies and the general public that the WhatsApp numbers of the Interim Administrator/CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Efiong Okon Akwa, has been hacked. The hackers, who are obviously be desperate to discredit the reputation of Dr. Akwa, particularly in his duties at the Commission, are circulating messages purporting same to originate from him.

Efforts are currently ongoing to retrieve the numbers and restore same to Dr. Akwa.

Consequently, all Stakeholders and the general public are advised to disregard any messages on WhatsApp, Facebook, Facebook Messenger and/or any other messaging apps currently in circulation, or that may still be sent out with those mobile numbers until full recovery and full restoration are achieved.

Signed:

Head, New Media Department
Niger Delta Development Commission
Port Harcourt.

Tinubu Support Group, TSG, has thanked the All Progressives Congress APC's Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu over the appointment of James Faleke as the Secretary of APC's Presidential Campaign Council.

This is contained in a congratulatory message to Hon. James Faleke and signed by the group's Head of Media, Tosin Adeyanju, describing him as an experienced, dutiful, responsible and responsive leader.

The statement reads in parts, "We wish to join your family, friends and political associates both locally and internationally to celebrate your appointment as the Secretary of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Organization for the 2023 Presidential Election. No doubt sir, your appointment is indeed a round peg in a round hole.

"Congratulations to you sir on this new opportunity and national assignment to serve our great party APC, and the nation at large.

The team described the appointment as perfect, strategic owing to his political sagacity, his knack for development, social dexterity, and his unalloyed loyalty to his principal, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who by the special grace of God is the incoming President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2023.

"We are also so excited on your behalf, knowing fully well that you are a great fit for that position and will deliver beyond the expectations of the campaign council as you did during the last presidential primaries.

"As a noble organization committed to the Tinubu/Shetimma 2023 victory at the polls, we would like to thank our leader and the party's Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his Vice, Sen. Shetimma for finding you worthy for this noble appointment.

"We are very proud and have confidence in you that you will fully deliver on your terms of reference.

"Once again, congratulations to you our leader on earning this amazing opportunity which is a reward for your loyalty and many years of hardwork towards the spread of the Asiwaju's political ideologies.

"We wish you all the best as you commence the process of retooling our great nation for a shared prosperity and development. TSG family will stand by you always.

Signed
Tosin Adeyanju
Head of Media, Tinubu Support Group.
14th August, 2022

As the world celebrates the youths on this day the 12th of August 2022, I bring you a message of hope for a better tomorrow.

1. The pain we feel today is our strength for tomorrow as we navigate through difficult times in our beloved land. Let's all rise against primordial sentiments and continue to work hard in a peaceful manner to better our country.

2. Our region the Niger Delta is so blessed with natural resources, professionals and talented vibrant youths who are pushing through by the day to build the Niger Delta of our dreams.

3. Today, I make bold to say that at the Niger Delta Development Commission we are doing a lot to eradicate poverty from the land, recently the portal for the scholarship program has been opened, and the ongoing Niger Delta Talent Hunt will discover many talents from the region; the Grassroot football competition, agricultural training and other laudable projects that will position us in the path of greatness.

4. I also seize this chance to plead that we shun violence during the forthcoming elections but rather participate in the process that will bring about the much-desired leadership that will further improve the existing infrastructures and developmental goals. Let us prove to the world that we are a people who God has blessed and are willing to set a legacy for future generations.

God bless Nigeria and Happy International Youth Day.


SIGNED

Engr. Udengs Eradiri
S.A Youth to the Interim Administrator/CEO NDDC

...says ex-Borno Governor shouldn't stand in the way of Christians

The Middle Belt Congress has appealed to former Borno State Governor, Kassim Shettima, to step down from his role as the vice-presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move, according to the group, will potentially save the party from impending electoral misfortune in 2023.

The Middle Belt Congress made this appeal on Wednesday at a press conference in Abuja.

In his address, the group's president, Mohammed Bilal, said the party's national acceptance had dwindled following Shettima's nomination.

By picking a fellow Muslim to run alongside Bola Tinubu, Bilal said the APC displayed a religious insensitivity to the plurality of the nation.

"The Muslim-Muslim Ticket of the APC indeed comes with its attendant political baggage. Suppose the APC as a party is desirous of making any meaningful impact in the 2023 presidential elections. In that case, it behoves the party to retrace its steps in the composition of its presidential Ticket."

Describing Shetimma as a friend of the Christian community in Nigeria, the Middle Belt Congress said it was disappointing that he went ahead to be a part of a Muslim-Muslim ticket in the face of religious and ethnic tension.

"We are constrained to believe that self-confession of Senator Kashim Shettima towards the Christian community might be a ruse as his actions of late does not indicate that of a religiously tolerant individual," Bilal said.

"It remains a statement that since the nomination of Senator Kashim Shetimma, the APC evolved into a riotous organization with various stakeholders in abhorrence for the choice of a Northern Muslim at the detriment of credible and capable Northern Christians.

"It remains morally unjustifiable for Senator Kashim Shetimma to hold onto the vice presidential slot of the APC because such action has heated the polity in ways too numerous to mention. The incomprehensible fact remains that the leadership of the APC is aware of the threats posed to its electoral success with the Muslim-Muslim Ticket, yet, it has remained adamant about the uproar its choice of Muslim-Muslim ticket has elicited in the polity".

The group, therefore, appealed to Shetimma to "act in honour by resigning his nomination as the vice presidential candidate of the APC in the interest of peace and tranquillity and to salvage whatever is left of the APC in the buildup to the 2023 presidential elections."

The Middle Belt Congress added that as a matter of urgency, Shettima should recuse himself from the APC presidential team and begin the process of dispelling the insinuations about the party as an Islamic party, which was brought about by his nomination and subsequent acceptance.

"Senator Kashim Shetimma must, in good conscience, admit that his nomination had indeed brought about ethnic and religious tension in the country, which remains unacceptable in this critical period of our existence where there are concerted efforts at unifying the country along ethnic and religious lines," the statement added.

"The fact that a Muslim-Muslim ticket cannot unite the country is enough for Senator Kashim Shettima to reconsider his vice presidential candidature. And as a former governor who witnessed one of the bloodiest conflicts in Nigeria, he should know better about the cost of conflict in society.

"The Middle Belt Congress strongly advises Senator Kashim Shettima to look at the presidential Ticket of other political parties to understand that he stands to go in history as that individual whose blind pursuit of power undermined the Christian community in Nigeria.

"It remains inexcusable, and the Middle Belt Congress is tempted to believe that Senator Kashim Shettima might have forced himself on the APC Presidential candidate without recourse to the far-reaching implication such a move would have on the polity".

The group, however, said it is not late for the former governor to redeem himself in the interest of his party and the country at large, noting that he can't stand in the way of millions of Christians.

Mr. Peter Obi, call your supporters to order, falsehood and disinformation will not win election


The Tinubu Campaign Organisation has appealed to the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi to call his supporters to order and to allow this election circle to be about issues that will advance the growth, progress and stability of Nigeria.

In a statement by its Director of Media and Communications, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the TCO admonished the Labour Party presidential candidate to get his supporters to desist from spreading lies, malice and denigrating other candidates, especially Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

TCO further states that Nigeria will be better for it and the electoral process will be enriched if the 2023 presidential campaign sticks to issues of good governance that will lift millions of Nigerians out of poverty rather than being dominated by the ravings of guttersnipes, who do not wish the country well.

Mr. Onanuga noted that the Tinubu Campaign Organisation saw the need to appeal to Mr. Obi to rein in his supporters after investigating the origin of the fake report claiming that the Ghanaian President, Nana Akufo-Addo wrote a letter to the All Progressives Congress Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking him to support Peter Obi and take care of his health.

President of Ghana via his official Twitter account has vehemently debunked the fake news as a product of deliberate mischief with the intent to deceive the public.

“I have written no such letter to the APC leader, and it will not occur to me to do so. Ghana and Nigeria boast of decades of cordial, strong and brotherly relations, and I am not going to be the one to interfere in the internal affairs and politics of Nigeria," said President of Ghana via Twitter.

"We have found that the fake news about Akufo-Addo’s letter was first published on June 22 by a rogue platform, whose url reads as worlsnews.space (sic) and site identity as World of News.

"A content analysis of the site clearly showed that it is a Biafra news platform. The fake news was reposted on Facebook by Peter Obi Support Group, same day - a clear proof that Biafra campaigners and Peter Obi supporters are the same.

"Both the Facebook account and the website are replete with fake stories about Bola Tinubu, including a fake story credited to former governor Akinwunmi Ambode, alleging that Tinubu demanded N50billion monthly payment from him. The spuriousness of the statement is in the evidence that Lagos did not begin to clock N50billion revenue until after Ambode left office. Tinubu could not have demanded N50billion monthly payment from Ambode when the state government didn't make such in a month throughout the tenure of Mr. Ambode.

"The pirate website, which the Facebook account feeds on also parades malicious fake news and headlines such as “ I am old, but my blood is young, please vote for me – Tinubu begs youth" .

"There is also the most wicked of all headlines: When I became president, I will Build more prison (sic) for Igbo’s and IPOB members – Tinubu".

"The big surprise in all of these is that all the headlines have no supporting stories, and clicking them may bring virus to your computer.

"We have come to a point where it becomes imperative to tell Mr. Obi to show leadership and disavow his supporters who are employing fake news and disinformation as deliberate tools to deceive and poison the minds of unsuspecting Nigerians," Mr. Onanuga reiterated.

North-central APC stakeholders, supporters storm Villa, want Tinubu’s DGship swapped with VP candidate


Thousands of protesters from the six north-central states, including the Federal Capital Territory, on Tuesday, stormed the Presidential Villa to oppose the All Progressives Congress choice of Governor Simon Lalong as presidential campaign Director General.


The protesters, who came in buses from Ilorin, Makurdi, Lafia, Minna, Jos and other cities, gathered in their numbers in Abuja to demand that the party swaps its vice-presidential candidacy with the DG position given to the geopolitical zone.

Under the aegis of the APC North-Central Youths and Women Forum, they converged at the Unity Fountain before proceeding to the entrance of the Villa to deliver a letter of appeal and protest to President Muhammadu Buhari.

The letter signed by Dauda Yakubu and 70 other stakeholders representing Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Plateau and the FCT was titled ‘Give Us Vice-Presidential Candidate And Take The Director-General, APC Presidential Campaign’.

According to the APC faithful, the region has contributed its quota to the party’s successes in recent times and should be compensated with the VP position.

In particular, they agreed that a Christian from the north-central is best suited for the role in the spirit of equity, fairness and inclusivity.

“The APC stakeholders and supporters across the six north central states including the FCT are constrained to write this open letter to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, “ the letter reads in part.

“We are worried that the various indices at play with our great party do not suggest that the Christians from Northern Nigeria are considered in the party’s scheme of things.

“We are also worried that since the race for the vice-presidential candidate of our great party began, as stakeholders of the party in the north-central, we have made representations on why the party should nominate a Christian from the North Central as VP candidate of the party.

“As concerned stakeholders of the party in north central, we feel humiliated by the actions of the party’s leadership in recent times which doesn’t demonstrate ethnic and religious inclusion.

“We consequently feel that the appointment of Governor Lalong as DG of the presidential campaign council is an insult to our collective sensibilities as a devoted party faithful in the north central.

“Mr President may wish to recall that in the annals of the party, the north central zone has demonstrated an unalloyed commitment to the growth and development of the party. But what has the north central received in return?

“Mr President, we came from near and far to witness first-hand the news making the rounds that you indeed sanctioned the Muslim-Muslim ticket of our party. There have also been insinuations that the vice presidential ticket was not given to a Christian because you supported it.

“Mr President we know you are an advocate of unity, ethnic and religious inclusion. But again, we are short of words with the news making the rounds. Hence this open letter in a protest March to hear from you that you were indeed in support of a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

“This is on the heels that as stakeholders of our great party, we have consistently advocated for Lalong as the party’s VP candidate because he posses all the necessary qualities. But to our dismay, he was appointed DG.

“Mr President, so many questions are left unanswered in our minds regarding the position of the party in the interest of Northern Christians. If a Northern Christian is good to be campaign DG, why then is a Northern Christian not good enough to be nominated VP candidate of our great party?

“Mr President, it is our considered opinion that the lines are not connecting for stakeholders of the party in north central. And consequently we demand explanation as to why our interests have jesttisined using a yardstick that defeats common sense.

“Mr President, your fathermy disposition to all regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations has never been in doubt. You have been a great source of strength and support to all and it is on record that you have treated all in the same manner since you assumed leadership of our great country.

“We know you can’t be a part of religious exclusion under any circumstance. Hence, our presence here in Abuja through this peaceful protest is to hear if you support a Muslim-Muslim ticket”.

The APC stakeholders, therefore, made the following demands to the president;

“That a northern Christian is considered as the vice presidential candidate of our great party.

“That the north central zone deserves to be considered giving the prevailing circumstances and the strategic importance of the zone in the affairs of the country.

“The party leadership should invoke an emergency meeting to reflect the wishes and interests of northern Christians in the composition of the presidential team of the party for the 2023 general elections”.

By: Benedict Aguele

Nigeria is at a crossroads. The country is facing serious challenges on many fronts, including security, the economy, and infrastructure.

To meet these challenges head-on, Nigeria needs a leader with experience in managing complex crises.

Nigeria has been through a lot in recent years, and we need someone who can help us rebuild and move forward.

A wartime President is someone who has proven themselves in difficult circumstances, someone who knows how to make tough decisions and get results. Nigeria needs someone like this at the helm.

2023 is shaping up to be a critical year for Nigeria, and we need a President who is up to the challenge.

With the right person at the helm, we are confident that Nigeria can become a prosperous and thriving nation once again.

Benedict Aguele wrote this piece from Abuja.