₦airaland Forum

The Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) has launched a novel Niger Delta Talent Hunt (NIDETH) to harness creativity among youths in the entertainment industry and address unemployment in the region.



The Interim Administrator, NDDC, Dr. Efiong Akwa, who spoke on Wednesday during the inauguration of the programme at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt said it was designed to tackle the challenges and lack of opportunities facing youths in the region.

Dr. Akwa commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, for supporting activities aimed at harnessing the creative potential of youths in the Niger Delta.

He said: "The entertainment industry is growing bigger everyday. The Nollywood industry occupies a major platform amongst other entertainment industries in the world. When you talk of entertainment the next thing you hear is Nollywood industry in Nigeria. Niger Delta is blessed.

"Let me use this opportunity to tell the world that youths of the Niger Delta are the best you can find around the world. They are calm, confident, they seek to excel in whatever endeavour they find themselves.

"In the field of soccer the youths of Rivers State and Akwa-Ibom are taking the lead; wrestling, Delta and Edo are tops; swimming Bayelsa and Rivers are unbeatable.

"Our focus in this programme is to identify the talented youths, build them up and expose them to the world. We want to use this as an opportunity to provide a platform to expose the hidden talents in the region. If you build the youth, you build the nation.”



Dr. Akwa's Special Adviser on Youths, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, described the Niger Delta youths as enterprising, observing that artistes from the region had challenges of getting support and platforms to express themselves.

He said: “The creative industry is one area that we can engage a lot of idle young people. We will continue to play our role in supporting institutions to create the platform to push our young people to the international community. We must keep the creative sector alive in the Niger Delta to develop young talents and to showcase them to the world.

"We expect that after this process, we will be able to identify unique talents that would be able to showcased to the world. If you look at the entertainment industry you have employment opportunities that are waiting for us.

"The Niger Delta youths need to be a part of these opportunities. We need to create engagements so that young people, who have a lot of energy can channel it towards talent development. The work of the NDDC is that of an interventionist agency. It is part of our job to create opportunities for young people to express themselves.

"The sky is our starting point. We expect that after this talent hunt which is geared towards entertainment, we will be looking at sports".


In his remarks, the NDDC Director, Youths and Sports, Mr. Offiong Ephraim, said that NIDETH was a flagship programme of the NDDC Youths and Sports Directorate aimed at exposing the inherent talents in the Niger Delta region.



He said the talent hunt programme would kick off from the first phase which is Ondo, Edo and Delta State and followed by the other phases with the grand finale taking place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State noting that it would cover the nine states of the Niger Delta Region.



One of the leading artistes in the region and consultant for the programme, Mr. Okiri Harrison, also known as Harry Song, said that the new NDDC youth programme was a dream come true for those in the creative sector.

He said that 80 per cent of the entertainment industry was rooted in the Niger Delta.

The musician said: “In the entertainment industry, cutting across music, comedy and theatre, the top talents are from the Niger Delta region. The main issue is that most talents remain unharnessed because there is no proper platform to identify and develop them. I am glad because this is where NIDETH comes in".

The All Progressives Congress APC Muslim youths have rejected the choice of Senator Kashim Shettima as the running mate to Chief Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming Presidential Polls 


The youths want him replaced with  a Christian Cleric without any delay.


The youths spoke in Abuja at a news conference.


Les by its Convener, Abdullahi Saleh, the youths said they are seriously against a Muslim-Muslim ticket.


Saleh said while it must be stated that there is a right to make decisions, however, such decisions must not be made to the collective detriment of the sensibilities of the people that make up the country of Nigeria. 


"As concerned stakeholders of the APC in the 19 Northern States in the country, we find it worrisome that such a decision could be taken without recourse to its implication on the electoral chances of the party and the attendant uproar such a decision could bring about in the country. 


"It is also worrisome that of all the country's political parties, only the APC presented a Muslim-Muslim ticket. In our opinion, this is insensitive and a gross display of a lack of respect for our Christian brothers and sisters. 


"This is on the heels that the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a Muslim from South West Nigeria, and picking another Muslim from the northern part of the country as his running mate is politically and morally indefensible. 


"We hold the firm conviction that such a move can boomerang with unpleasant consequences for the APC at the general elections, hence the need for the party's leadership to make haste to correct this error of judgment" he added.


He said in Northern Nigeria, there are credible candidates with rich credentials and with massive grassroots following that can complement the presidential ticket of the APC in the presidential elections. 


"As such, the 19 APC states Northern Muslims Forum sees the selection of Senator Kashim Shettima as an aberration that should be corrected with immediate effect by the relevant authorities within the party. 


"The implication of non-action in this regard can only be imagined, so much so that the majority of the eligible voters in Northern Nigeria have elected to boycott the APC in protest of the disrespect and disregard to Northern Christians, whose population and relevance in the scheme of things in the region cannot be overemphasized.  


"As a group, we wish to state unequivocally that we reject the choice of Senator Kashim Shettima as the vice presidential candidate of the APC. This decision is hinged on the need to ensure a balance in the presidential ticket of the APC, as it has been since the return of democracy in 1999. The APC must respect the religious diversity of the country. We hold the opinion that emphasis must be placed on ensuring a united house before the elections and not a fragmented house" he added


The youths called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the Presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to replace the vice presidential candidate of the APC with a Christian cleric as the vice presidential candidate of the party. 


"If the APC is desirous of recording electoral success in the 2023 presidential elections, it must retrace its steps by selecting a Christian cleric as its vice presidential candidate. The party must not be perceived as promoting a religious agenda by fielding a Muslim-Muslim ticket. 


"The 19 APC States Northern Muslim Forum condemns such a move in its totality as it is a recipe for the entrenchment of mutual suspicion between the Muslims and the Christians in the country, which won’t augur well for relative peace and tranquillity. 


"We consequently say no to a Muslim-Muslim ticket by the APC. We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to kindly intervene to save the party from an electoral crisis. We urge Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to emulate the example of President Muhammadu Buhari in the choice of his running mate in the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections. 


"This stance is hinged on the national interest. Our Christian brothers and sisters deserve a place in the scheme of things, and the APC must not be seen as a religiously insensitive party.  The time to act is now" he said

…Seeks arrest, prosecution of perpetrators


The Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, on Tuesday, condemned in strong terms, the killing of seven youths allegedly by ‘Ebubeagu Operatives’ in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State.

Kachikwu in a statement by his campaign office in Abuja, described the incident as barbaric and wicked, even as he called on the police and other security agencies to swiftly arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the dastardly act.

The youths were said to have been killed while returning from a traditional wedding in Awomama, Oru East L.G.A.

Five other persons are said to be missing following the attack.

“This killing is simply unconscionable and man’s inhumanity to man. How can a security outfit purportedly set up to protect a vulnerable population from harassment and attacks turn their guns on their own kith and kin?”

He called on leaders of the South East, especially the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and all leaders of thought in the South East to work with communities to nip the ugly development in the bud.

“The South East can ill-afford this type of bloodletting especially when innocent youths who are leaders of the future are being sent to their early graves in such cruel and gruesome manner.

“The challenges of survival in the country are becoming Herculean and it is time for law enforcement agencies to ensure that the people are protected from unnecessary attacks and killings of citizens especially innocent youths by unscrupulous elements masquerading as Ebubeagu security operatives,” Kachikwu said.

He called on the authorities of Ebubeagu to call their personnel to order by ensuring that their operatives are properly screened and trained in the art of protecting their communities.

He equally called on them to prevent their ranks from being infiltrated by persons with sinister motives.

END

*We Must Respect Our Christian Brothers Over Vice President, Group Tells APC, Tinubu*

A group of Muslim youths have urged the All Progressives Congress and its presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to respect the Christians in its fold with its Vice Presidential ticket.

The Arewa Youths’ Peace Movement made the call on Monday in a statement signed by its convener, Alhaji Kabiru Kadir.

Tinubu’s choice of former Borno State Governor, Kassim Shettima, as running mate has created a huge crack within the ruling party.

A host of APC leaders and stakeholders have kicked against the same faith ticket with some Christian youths matching to the Aso Villa last week to register their displeasure.

Consequently, the former Lagos State Governor postponed the official unveiling of his running mate.

And the Arewa Youths’ Peace Movement has urged Tinubu to go a step further to correct the anomaly by withdrawing Shettima and announce a Christian cleric as his substantive deputy.

According to Alhaji Kadir, this will improve the party's chances at the next elections, noting that Christians will vote massively for their own.

The group also said they want to ensure a more inclusive, robust and sensitive governance process.

Describing Nigeria as a multi-religious and multi-ethnic country, Kadir said any attempt by one religion to dominate the political structure could only widen the gap of mistrust and destroy the delicate sense of tolerance cultivated over the years.

According to him, the choice of a Muslim-Muslim ticket was not only ill-timed but also a total disregard for the diversity of the country, noting that it has undermined efforts of well-meaning Nigerians over the years to bridge the religious differences and promote ethnic harmonious co-existence.

In his words, “What the choice of Muslim-Muslim ticket means is that we are now in a mono-religion status. If you look at the APC, the president is Muslim, the presidential candidate is a Muslim, his running mate is a Muslim, the party chairman is a Muslim, deputy chairman is a Muslim. Head of the legislature and judiciary are Muslims. So, when you look at all these, you don’t need to be told.

“The APC can’t deny knowledge of the anger of the people. The worst mistake we can make as a party is to assume that everybody in the North is a Muslim. Saying that the choice reflects the country’s reality is like saying that those in other religions in the North are irrelevant.

“As we all know, the country is evenly divided among Muslims and Christians. So any government that is Muslim-Muslim will be illegitimate and will never gain the respect of Christians.

”This will set a very wrong precedent; it is totally insensitive and even if we win, it will prove bad for good governance.

“This is indeed a betrayal of the advocates of unity and peaceful co-existence with our Christian brothers including notable Imams who had forewarned the Party and the candidate from travelling this treacherous route.”

Kadir said a respected Christian with wide connections will help the country heal once the government comes on board.

He noted that even the Muslims are also afraid that a Musilm-Muslim ticket will escalate the insecurity in the north.

“Terrorists will be emboldened to kill more Christians,” Kadir added while urging the party to avoid the inevitable.

The Muslim youth leader, therefore, warned that genocide could take place in the years to come.

“The APC has always come under the suspicion of our Christian brothers as pursuing an Islamization agenda. Hence the various labels of the APC as Islamic Movement, Islamic brotherhood, supporter of APC party, Boko Haram party etc, etc.

“We are afraid that certain ethnic and religious groups could be wiped away should our party retain Shettima. An impending genocide could happen in Nigeria. Let's save our nation by replacing Shettima with a Christian”.

By Emmanuel Abe Kolawole

I stumbled on a piece of news recently on the National Youth Service Corp Trust Fund (NYSCT-F). The news item was an interesting one in the sense that it took the NYSC-TF to the cleaners. These are indeed interesting times that I wondered what country we have here.

The news story alluded that some top army generals are behind the NYSC Trust Fund to serve as a retirement package. I think whoever it was behind the story must have woken up from the wrong side of his bed, and as such, his brain must have worked anti-clockwise.

As a start, is the NYSC-TF a brainchild of the Nigerian Army? Is the NYSC a command under the Nigerian Army? What is the business of the Nigerian Army with youth empowerment? These and many more are asking questions from the sponsors of that news item.

I recall I have stated on numerous occasions that the NYSC-TF remains one of the best policies that has come out in recent times regarding youth development in the country. Its provisions are brilliant and a novel initiative primed to address youth development and empowerment challenges.

I also need to mention that the NYSC-TF is a product of critical thinking by representatives of all state governments and FCT Administration, whose responsibility it is to fund the Scheme, civil society as well as other stakeholders in the country. I also recall that it was thoroughly scrutinized in the public space before the National Assembly passed it. I stand to be corrected; the challenge with the recent diatribe on the relevance of the NYSC-TF is because of its potential to bring about meaningful development in the country through the NYSC scheme.

Don't forget that the NYSC itself had come under massive attack regarding its relevance in the scheme of things in the country. Some said it had lost its significance and should be scrapped. But as usual, they failed woefully as the scrap NYSC agitations could not be sustained.

I dare say that the contributions of the NYSC to nation-building cannot be overemphasized. An example could be seen during the strike action embarked by resident doctors across the country. It is on record that NYSC doctors and nurses stood in the gap and averted what could have been a national disaster.

Another example was evident during the coronavirus pandemic, where corp members were engaged in sensitization and production of PPEs to halt the further spread of the virus. The contributions of the NYSC in the critical educational and agricultural sectors were also noteworthy.

Back to the crux, the NYSC-TF is a masterstroke when one analises the number of youths that pass through the scheme yearly. And suppose there is a ready pool of funds that is availed these numbers to become entrepreneurs and employers of labour. In that case, the multiplier effect can only be imagined.

We must admit that our youthful population is an asset to the country. The role of youths in nation-building is more important than you might think. They are the building blocks of a nation. The youth can bring social reform and improvement to society.

Furthermore, the country requires their participation to achieve the goals and help take the country towards progress. If this remains factual, it behoves on the government to initiate policies and programmes to help the youth of our country achieve their potential. And the NYSC-TF fits this narrative.

With the benefit of hindsight, one could imagine the gains that would have been recorded in the country if this policy had been introduced some years back. Given the right environment, we are talking about young and brilliant minds bustling with innovations that could turn the country's fortunes around. This is what the NYSC-TF aims to achieve, in my considered opinion.

The country must do more to ensure young people have the opportunities and tools necessary to succeed. The NYSC-TF has all it takes for the government to change the narrative. The future is bright, and I urge all young people in Nigeria to see this as that golden opportunity to translate their hopes and aspirations into tangible realities.

Those that are against this initiative ought to have a rethink. They need to come to terms with the reality on the ground. Playing politics with the future of our youths must be discouraged. I expect to read positive news items about the NYSC-TF. I also hope to see advocates of the enormous potential of the fund come out in support of it.

We must get it right regarding youth development in the country as obtained in other countries. Nigeria’s burgeoning youth population provides a huge social, economic and political capital required to drive the nation’s development. This much should occupy our minds daily.

The enormous benefits are guaranteed to put smiles on the faces of our teeming youthful population, whose burgeoning spirit is ready to take flight given the right atmosphere. We must not miss this opportunity, for posterity will not be kind to us.


Kolawole an activist, former PRO, NANS wrote from Akure.

Like Mind 4A New Nigeria, a group of like-minded Nigerians who have been advocating for the continuous voters' registration exercise in the country, have condemned in strong terms the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) decision to terminate the exercise by July 31.

The group, in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Benedict Aguele, and made available to newsmen Friday in Abuja, described INEC's decision as anti-democratic and "an attempt to disenfranchise millions of Nigerians".

According to the group, the exercise is being terminated too early before the country can reap its full benefits.

It demanded that INEC reverse its decision and continue with it until November 2022 which will be 90 days before the General Election.

The Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, will tomorrow (Friday) unveil his running mate.

Sources close to the Dumebi Kachikwu for President Campaign Organization, disclosed that the event is expected to take place in Abuja by 12noon barring last minute changes.

Efforts to get the name of the proposed Vice Presidential nominee proved abortive as Kachikwu is said to be keeping the information close to his heart pending the formal unveiling.

“It is not a name I can tell you at this time. Our Presidential candidate plans to disclose the name in a grand style tomorrow. So wait till you hear from the horses mouth,” the source said.

Another source however revealed that Kachikwu has selected a dynamic, knowledgeable and experienced personality who shares his passion for impactful leadership and people oriented service after his election as President.

“All I can say is that the proposed running mate to the ADC’s Presidential candidate, is a well-groomed and knowledgeable Nigerian who would rightly complement Kachikwu efforts in working to restore order, provide security, lift Nigerians out of poverty, fix the nation’s comatose infrastructure, curb corruption and painstakingly revive the economy.

“Kachikwu means business and Nigerians, especially the youth, the under-served and neglected segments of the society will begin to understand his vision for a new Nigeria where the government exists solely to work for the security and welfare of the people after the grand unveiling tomorrow,” the source added.

END

Insecurity: ADC presidential candidate, Kachikwu, to give State of Nation Address Tuesday

…As Party summons emergency NEC, BOT meeting

Worried by the spate of killings in the country, especially the recent attack on the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, wherein scores of terrorists were released, the Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, will on Tuesday, give a State of the Nation Address.

Kachikwu is expected to speak during an emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting already summoned by the ADC.

Party sources said the meeting which is being called at the instance of Kachikwu, will hold on Tuesday, 12th of July 2022 at 7pm.

The source added that Kachikwu will use the opportunity to speak to Nigerians on burning national issues.

The State of the Nation address, according to the source, is expected to be streamed live on some national broadcast stations and key social media channels.

Mr Kachikwu is known to be vocal on national issues and has severally called on President Buhari to resign over his inability to curb worsening insecurity in the country.

Some professors from the north have backed an All Progressives Congress (APC) joint ticket of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for president and the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Rev Yakubu Pam as his running mate.

The scholars, under the aegis of Association of Northern Professors, made this known in a research paper made public at the weekend in Abuja.

Co-signed by Prof. Kakuta Yaki, a Professor of Public Admin. & Politics, and Prof. Ibrahim Shuaibu, a former President of Political Science Association, they said the conclusion was the product of an extensive research work by Professors from diverse backgrounds in politics, history and international relations.

Considering that the country is polarised along ethnic and religious lines, the Professors said it would be counter-productive for the party to still proceed with a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

Among the array of qualified northern Christians considered, the Association of Northern Professors said Rev Pam stands out based on its findings.

“Pam is a most suitable candidate for the APC because of his rich pedigree and numerous contributions to the entrenchment of peace and unity in the Northern region. He commands respect amongst the northern elites and clerics,” the academics said.

“His credentials are intimidating. Rev Yakubu Pam is an unassuming personality, though silent, and has contributed immensely to religious stability in the northern region. His name resonates with peace and unity, even amongst the Northern religious circle, with whom he enjoys tremendous respect.

“His leadership footprints cut across different segments and sectors of the Northern region, hence why his nomination as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC would indeed boost the chances of the party in the 2023 presidential elections. His candidacy addresses the religious and ethnic questions needed to position the APC for electoral success.

“The choice of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC comes with its attendant benefits, as it would give the APC a balanced ticket that would eventually guarantee electoral success at the polls.

“Rev Pam is also a known figure in most parts of Northern Nigeria because of his numerous contributions to peace and development and religious tolerance. His appeal also cuts across all ages due to his broad views on issues”.

According to the professors, Tinubu and Pam will complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

“While Tinubu addresses the political component of the ticket, Rev Yakubu Pam addresses the administrative component,” the scholars noted.

“His wealth of experience in administrative matters is noteworthy. His sterling leadership strides at the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission give an insight into his approach to leadership. This is aside from other positions of authority he has occupied over decades, including the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern states, including the Federal Capital Territory”, they added.

The professors, however, urged the leadership of the APC to rise to the occasion in “ensuring that the Tinubu/Pam ticket in the overarching objective of presenting a formidable force capable of translating the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians into tangible reality”.

2023: College of Bishops,Imams endorse Yakubu Pam as APC  Vice Presidential Candidate 


Ahead of the 2023 Presidential Polls,the College of Bishops and Imams have unanimously endorsed the candidature of Reverend Yakubu Pam as the running mate to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress,APC in next year polls.


The Clergymen who converged on Abuja on Sallah day  said its resolve to present Rev Yakubu Pam as the most suitable candidate is hinged on his amiable personality and contributions to peace and development in the country. 


The Spokesman of the Group, Abel Adam described Yakubu Pam as a man of few words but of a sound mind, a solid administrator and a man who understands what leadership entails. 


He said there is no iota of doubt with regards to the suitability of Rev Yakubu Pam in complimenting the APC presidential ticket because according to him he comes on board with a rich credential in administration and the Lord's vineyard. 


He said, "As a body of clerics, Rev Yakubu Pam is one of us. Over several decades, he has displayed an unflinching commitment to the unity, progress and growth of the country in several capacities, including Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern States and the federal capital territory. 


"He set worthy leadership examples that we have remained proud of, hence the decision to present to the APC this unique individual that commands tremendous respect across the country for his notable contributions to the good of the common man regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations.  


"It remains a statement that Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu needs a running mate that is a bridge-builder and a symbol of unity. These are the attributes of Rev Yakubu Pam that have resonated in all assignments he has undertaken in the cause of service to the country and humanity. 


"We are also convinced that with the credentials of Rev Yakubu Pam, the APC is sure of electoral victory because of the broad appeal he enjoys in most states in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the country. 


"The exigencies of time require that the APC presents candidates with the capacity and strength of character to address the challenges in the country. And this is what the nomination of Rev Yakubu Pam will bring to the table for the APC in the presidential elections. 


"As a body of clerics, we stand under the authority of God in endorsing Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC. We also call on all well-meaning Nigerians to join in supporting Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice-presidential candidate of the APC" he said 


Adam also called on the presidential candidate of the APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to see in Rev Yakubu Pam a dependable individual that is loyal, devoted and trusted, and one that would assist in remarkable ways in setting the country on the right track towards sustainable growth and development. 


"We thank God for his mercies and love for our dear country. We pray for the successful conduct of the elections, and Nigeria shall defeat its adversaries" he added

FRONTLINE ACTIVIST ADVISES NEWLY APPOINTED MINISTER OF NIGER DELTA AFFAIRS, UMANA OKON UMANA

The appointment of Mr. Umana Okon Umana as the substantive Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is a welcome development in the struggle for a better life for the long suffering people of the Niger Delta region. No doubt at this time the freshly minted Honourable Minister would be inundated with congratulatory messages of all shades. Indeed congratulations are very much in order, as Mr. Umana Umana is a seasoned public servant and development oriented humanitarian, who is well deserving of this appointment.

It is however pertinent, to call the Honourable Minister’s attention to the fact that his appointment, coming so late in the life of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, requires that he keeps the celebratory champagne on ice as there is work to be done and little time with which to get it done.

It is no doubt, that Successive administrations have failed the people of the Niger Delta, keeping them perpetually in penury and undignified living conditions.
It is my heartfelt hope that Mr. Umana Umana would put the people of the Niger Delta on the front burner of national conversation, engraving into our national consciousness the fact that oil exploration which funds Nigeria, has cost the Niger delta people their livet and livelihoods as their waters and land keep getting polluted through inhuman practices by the oil companies.

The Niger Delta people have paid with their health and predominant occupation of fishing for Nigerian oil exploration, while they have reaped a polluted environment, poverty and lack of meaningful infrastructure with near total absence of government presence in such a critical area to Nigeria’s existential reality.


It is this sad and unfortunate reality which precipitated the Niger Delta agitation that crystallized into the Militancy of the early 2000s, before the administration of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua created the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to warehouse and coordinate the previous interventions created by previous administrations. The Niger Delta Ministry has failed to deliver over the years and it is this state of affairs that Mr. Umana is inheriting and will be expected to improve upon over the next 10months of the current administration.

As I have done over the years, I will continue to call attention to the plight of the people of the Niger Delta demanding for a discernible developmental agenda for the region. The task is enormous and I am by no means suggesting that I expect him to solve them all for good, but no doubt we expect a performance that is a clear departure from the norm in the Ministry. The people of the Niger Delta expect the Honourable Minister to carry out far reaching and sincere reforms of the NDDC and to give greater attention to infrastructural developments.

*APC Women Hold Massive Rally Support for Tinubu, Pam’s Ticket as President, Running Mate*

Thousands of All Progressives Congress women on Monday held a massive rally in Abuja to throw their weight behind Asiwaju Bola and Rev Yakubu Pam as the party’s presidential flagbearers.

The Coalition of APC Women, drawn across the country, said that Tinubu is assured of success at the polls with the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission as running mate.

Speaking on behalf of the women, national converner, Lady Princess Ajibola hailed Tinubu as an “epitome of prosperity and good governance, a great force to reckon with, and the right candidate to continue the sail of the affairs of Nigeria to greater heights”.

She, however, said that in order for the APC candidate to fulfil his mandate, he must pick the strongest possible running mate.

And according to the APC women, Rev Pam tops the pile being a “quintessential leader, a teacher and a peace lover”.

Ajibola added, “He is a man who has never taken his service in God’s vineyard for granted, he has been serving faithfully since 2020 and still is, even till now. 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. Service like this requires great personalities.

“We have seen many acclaimed leaders loose their focus after given higher appointment of leadership, and we have seen many attained the positions of this height, and loose faith of their humble beginnings. The Reverend has however retained his humility, keeping in mind God’s role in his life to serve the human race. The commission has been blessed to have been led by Rev Yakubu Pam as he has since then impacted the nation in many ways.

“His appointment has set many records for high standard of leadership in Nigeria which has led many stakeholders acclaim to this fact severally in conferences and the likes. Rev. Yakubu Pam has shown himself as the great man who constantly contributes to easing the plight of the people. The Reverend is a leader that listens to the people and hears their voices, and then speak out on their behalf on several occasions. He has spoken up about the different killings and inhumane treatment, urging and pushing for a better governance for the people. He has also applauded the different measures of change taken by the government in easing the pain of the people. The people’s plight has always been his plight.

“This is a man that seeks solutions to problem rather than complain. His words are a soothing balm to heart of the oppressed, assuring them of hope and relief. He’s an orator that push for positive actions to be take at the swiftness of time.

“The Coalition of APC women is asking us to go for a man that his influence cut across many sectors in Nigeria, a man who understands what pain is, and a man that is neither consumed with pride nor seek self-gratification. An altruistic man that so much detest bigotry, and nepotism”.

The women, therefore, pledged to mobilize millions of their members across the country to vote the Tinubu/Pam ticket in 2023.

By Moses Oche

This decade's generation has had their diaries filled with details of their vivid share in the first-hand historical experience of insurgency happening in their lifetime. These verbose experiences may well be defined by the success or failure of the anti-terrorism efforts across our country. Since al-Qaeda first emerged in 1988 and subsequently carried out attacks on American soil in 2001, terrorism has maned the stage where its religious-oriented versions spread across the globe as a weapon. Rescuing the world from the mindless savagery that represents the hallmark of terrorism requires sincerity and focus. Every nation has been saddled with the quest of providing capable personnel that is devoid of bigotry, nepotism, and religious -fanatism to help handle the matters of insecurities at the A-Level.

However, It also requires that differences are set aside to deal with what is proving to be a long-term threat to the survival and continuity of the human race. The global menace of terrorism manifests in Nigeria as al-Wilāya al-Islāmiyya Gharb Afrīqiyyah (Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP), better known as Boko Haram. Other lesser-known groups nurse the ambition of growing to the level of notoriety attained by Boko Haram if permitted. With a subtle undertone of their religious perplexity in their mode of Operandi, any President that stands for justice would be cautious in choosing a leader that can combat such adversity.

The national awakening to the true evil nature of the many uprising by Boko Haram and banditry in recent years has fortunately been matched by a military committed to defending the country from terrorists. Having been a continuous fight, this development has seen genuine efforts to fight terrorism even amidst intractable problems that tend to make solutions futile, simply on account of the divisiveness that persists even in the face of the threat to the collective wellbeing of the Nation.

President Muhammadu Buhari last year made another ground-breaking decision by appointing Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, a former General Officer Commanding 1 Division of the Nigerian Army and the then incumbent Theatre Commander of the Counter-Terrorism Counter Insurgency military outfit in the North East, codenamed Operation HADIN KAI as the new Chief of Army Staff, following the death of Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, the erstwhile Chief of Army Staff. Lieutenant General Yahaya was brought from the heart and the heat of insurgency from the far northeast part of the country.

However, being a proud holder of several honours and awards, some of which include Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Grand Service Star, Passed staff course (Dagger), National Defence College (Chile), Economic Community of West Africa State Monitoring Group Medal, Command Medal, Field Command Medal, General Operations Medal, Silver Jubilee Medal and Golden Jubilee Medal, through courage, selfless sacrifice and exemplary leadership, his actions before the appointment spoke so much volume that was audible to the deaf as an evidential capability, representing a pointer to the right person capable of handling the affairs of security in Nigeria as a nation. Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has surpassed the mark of a mere hero and has launched himself into the nobility of greatness to be reckoned with worldwide. One wouldn’t wonder far for the answer to the mystery of why an Army under his watch has always remained as safe as Rome under the pope.

Over time, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has proven himself qualified with unique skills such as his vast wealth of experience as a war veteran, a peacekeeper, and an administrator with efficiency in maintaining order and stability in conflict-ridden areas around the country. This General respects every religion by showing no discrepancy in his judgements and decision-making. Apart from his gift of looking beyond religious fanaticism, he's loved by all due to his large heart of giving and donations to the soldiers and citizens around without showing any tolerance to worldliness in his dealings.

Faruk is a man that works earnestly to implant his cheerful disposition in the Army. First, as a Human being and secondly, as a soldier, whose shadows should reflect in every Army personnel, so long as he remains the Army Chief. Those who have known Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya from his teenage age loudly attest to his open-minded and compassionate nature. They know the Army Chief as humane and passionate about the afflictions and plight of the less privileged. Anyone can easily touch his soft spot irreversibly when he extends assistance to the needy or come to the rescue of anyone in a consuming dilemma. He is kind to a fault, humble and amiable. He has grown up with these attributes in his chosen profession, the Army, and exhibits it everywhere he has served his country to reach the peak of his career as COAS.

Therefore, in redirecting and refocusing the Nigerian Army along these lines of greatness, Faruk Yahaya sought to smoothen ties of relationship between civilians and soldiers along with his humanism. His preachments to soldiers have always centred on their roles as servants, as against bossy masters to Nigerians. One can convincingly conclude that President Muhammadu Buhari made an impeccable decision on the choice of appointing Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya as the Chief of Army Staff. Everyone would applaud the President’s choice of picking a pious man to the core, one that is revealed as an epitome of truth, honesty, and incorruptible practices without blemish.

His contribution to the Nigerian Army has helped heighten the action of patriotism among officers and soldiers, whereby, anywhere one encounters Nigerian soldiers, either on the battlefield or by the roadside in the Northeast, they exude the passionate, courageous and irrevocable spirit of certainty in finally subjugating the evil tormenting Nigerians. Sometimes, even in video clips from the Northeast theatre of the war, released intermittently on social media, Nigerians sight soldiers jubilantly displaying acts of gallantry when they triumph over Boko Haram insurgents. More penetrating is seeing troops fighting and caring for the old and young, children and women who are most times rescued from the terrorists and even administering first aid treatments to rescued victims. It is representatively symbolic of general excitement and the humane reflection of troops on the frontlines to show rare kindness and love. It inspires and assures the troops’ anticipated continuous victory against Boko Haram at the cost of anything, including sacrificing their lives.
Today, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya never stopped contributing and committing to the welfare of the Nigerian Army against different bigotry rumours and speculations before his appointment. This has encouraged the soldiers to look forward to that hour with eagerness anxiously; the day they would be feted with garlands as heroes and heroines of counter-terrorism globally. The meekness and affection of troops towards those they fight for can only be found in rare cases and amongst the Nigerian troops confronting the insurgents.

The report states that some citizens have been paid to be social activists to pull down the military institution, all in a bid to discredit them. This is therefore highly uncalled for and should have no place in our country. Little do we know about the effect of the strategies of these detractors because the reality is that the seeming interventions are unnecessary distractions that will reverse recent gains made in the war against insurgency. Each time such paid activists unjustifiably criticise the military, they, therefore, undermine the counter-insurgency efforts. In many instances, the damage goes beyond the now because Nigeria's foreign partners have sometimes referenced the activities of such activists as justifications for withholding military cooperation to Nigeria or blocking crucial arms deals that would contribute to the anti-terror war efforts. Still, the COAS has remained unperturbed and not dismayed by the futile efforts being thrown at him by his detractors. He has always been keeping the wheel of the fight against insurgency moving and not permitting their distractions to move him in his line of duty. The hard-working Army Chief will not give the insurgents much operational laxity in Nigeria, especially in the Northeast, where they prided in false invincible power and strength.

This has remained a pain in their daunting efforts and reaffirmed their continued futility. These rotten eggs in human skins need to be separated and broken off from the good ones because they are significant cancer to the nation as a whole. When not weeded out, they become a menace that will bring ills, misfortune and setbacks to our dear country. It is worthy of note that those who deliberately manipulate facts to sabotage the military should be mindful that only a thin line separates what they see as harmless mischief and commission of crimes.

Looking at Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya’s recent refined and attuned moves to the positive virtues of humanity, one will conclude that the best offer that can help in fostering these great continuous works that have been set in motion is to jointly support his wave of positive changes all around the nation and more importantly in his fight against insurgency and banditry. This calls for support and unity in all arms of security in Nigeria.

For the sake of tranquillity in the Nation, detractors and their agents are advised to stay clear from the Chief of Army Staff so that he can give maximum concentration to his works. He has been tried and has proven himself beyond all doubts, an exceptional leader who is ever ready to provide an optimal discharge of his duty any time the clarion call to action is being heard. He will never compromise for terrorists to take over the country because he holds the country's interests very dear to his heart. Indeed, General Faruk Yahaya is the soldier’s soldier whose actions speaks for themselves to the admiration of all well meaning Nigerians.

Oche is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.

2023: Only VP of N/Central extraction would make us win, N/East APC stakeholders reply N/West 




As debates concerning the vice presidential candidacy of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) continue to occupy central stage of Nigeria's polity, a coalition of stakeholders from the North East region, has demanded that the party picks the VP candidate from North Central. 


This, according to the stakeholders, would afford the party to win the 2023 presidential elections and positions it as a party known for fairness, equity and justice. 


This was the major resolution of the North East APC Stakeholders Coalition in Abuja on Sunday, at a well attended emergency meeting. 


Stakeholders from the North West had clamoured for the position of vice president, urging the party to nominate one of their own as running mate to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential flagbearer of the party in the 2023 general elections. 


Addressing newsmen after a successful stakeholders meeting in Abuja Sunday afternoon, Alhaji Abba Aji Suleiman, National Coordinator of North East APC Stakeholders Coalition, faulted the demand of their North Western counterparts, describing it as "not only misplaced, but a gross display of insensitivity to the relevance of other regions in the scheme of things in the party".


The coalition argued that, "the North West Region had been within the corridor of power in the last seven years of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, and for such demand to be made indeed speak volume of gross insensitivity. 


"It is the considered view of stakeholders in the North East that it would only be fair and just if the vice-presidential slot goes to the North Central, given the numerous contributions of the region to the growth and development of the party. 


"The stakeholders must come to terms with the fact that the North Central region hasn't had a shot at the highest level of governance since the return of democracy in 1999. This time has presented that unique opportunity that must be utilized in the party's best interest. 


"The North-West APC Stakeholders must also realize that the overarching objective of the party is to secure a landslide victory at the polls, and if that is indeed the case, would it make any sense if a region that has been represented adequately in the last ten years, would also demand the vice-presidential slot". 


Speaking further, Alhaji Suleiman stressed that, "unless the stakeholders of our great party in the North West want us to believe that the North Central is not deserving of producing the vice-presidential candidate hence the demand for the vice-presidential slot. 


"The stakeholders of the APC in the North East wish to use this medium to call on the leadership of our great party to ensure justice and fairness by providing that the vice presidential slot is given to the North Central". 


He added that the North Central hasn’t had the opportunity to produce either the president or vice president, "despite the array of credible candidates in the region with excellent profiles and broad appeal across the country", urging the APC to consider the North Central for the position of vice president, as his region had already conceded, for equity sake.

Pam: North-West, North-East APC Stakeholders Concede Vice Presidency to North-Central

All is now set for the All Progressives Congress to announce a substantive presidential running mate from the north-central zone.

This was after 19 northern states APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders, including north-west and north-east, nominated the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Rev Yakubu Pam as its preferred number 2 to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The group, which made this known on Thursday at a press conference in Abuja, said it came to the conclusion to zone the ticket to the middle-belt and subsequently settled for Pam after an exhaustive consultation for the purpose of equity, justice and fairness.

According to a statement signed by its convener, Alhaji Abubakar Isah, Secretary Hon Mutazu Kabiru Adamu and the heads of 19 states, the groups said the choice of north central is strategic, a reward for its critical role in the country during elections.

On its reason for backing Pam, the APC youths and stakeholders said the respected Christian cleric is a bridge builder with an extensive network in Northern Nigeria.

The group said he “ is viewed as a trusted ally who hasn’t failed to exhibit sincerity of heart and purpose in his assignment geared towards peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding amongst the various religious and ethnic groupings”.

“We believe such a move it’s not only to reward the north central for its loyalty and cooperation with the rest of the north west but, also the fact that the North Central parades one of the best brains to galvanize the much needed stakeholders’ cooperation in the northern part of the country”, the statement said.

“Consequently the unanimous endorsement of Rev Yakubu Pam is an indication of his level of acceptance in the North West owing to his sterling track record in service and his numerous contributions to peace and tranquility in Northern Nigeria and the country at large.

“Rev Yakubu Pam indeed has garnered administrative experience that spans decades in active service to the country and humanity. This much has been evident in the numerous positions of authority he occupied that includes but not limited to the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 Northern states, to mention but a few.

“The 19 Northern APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders Forum wishes to use this medium to place it on record that the choice of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice presidential candidate of the APC would indeed bring the needed balance and harmony the party requires to coast to victory at the presidential elections.

“Rev Yakubu Pam is a bridge builder with an extensive network in Northern Nigeria. He is viewed as a trusted ally who hasn’t failed to exhibit sincerity of heart and purpose in his assignment geared towards peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding amongst the various religious and ethnic groupings.

“He also presents a strong credential of loyalty, dedication and patriotism, which in our considered opinion is a functional criteria needed for the Office of the Vice President given the sensitivity of the office.

“We wish to place it on record that Rev Yakubu Pam’s candidature will unite all warring factions in Northern Nigeria, because of the tremendous respect he commands from all and sundry for his numerous contributions to the sustenance of peace and tranquility.

“We have no reservation with regards the ability of Rev Yakubu Pam to be of great asset to the APC during and after the elections because he is reliable and a man of vision and impeccable character, who matches his words with action and one that is never shy to speak power to the truth.

“In the light of the above enumerated facts, we wish to call on all interested parties in the vice presidential slot from North West and North East to shield their ambition and throw their support for Rev Yakubu Pam in the overarching objective of securing electoral victory for the party at the presidential elections”.

The group, therefore, called on the Progressive Governors to in “good conscience support the nomination of Rev Yakubu Pam as the vice presidential candidate of the APC”.

They added that, “This is on the heels that he is from the north central, he is young and energetic; he is a man of repute and character, whose acceptability cuts across religion and ethnicity”.

The 19 Northern APC Youth Groups and Stakeholders, however, urged the leadership of the APC to do all necessary to ensure that Rev Yakubu Pam is nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the party.

By Philip Agbese

After thorough examination, further being excluded from the list of inconsequential matters, and moved to the top relevant section in the nation, The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund bill has been a topic on the tongue of many great visionary leaders in this country. It is said that, “In a stronger Youth, lies the strength of a great Nation”. One would wonder how much exploration, and greatness that would emanate from a nation that have taken time to invest in her youths. What great expectations await such magnanimous task, or investment?

It’s no myth that for long have ethnic, political and religious differences been too frequently weaponized by those seeking to obtain or retain political power. Given this history, expecting a program to bring national unity, is a tall order, one that NYSC has proven to fill and also brought to realization its many benefits and importance as a developmental factor in our beloved country. The basic fact that a young graduate who has spent most of his or her life in the south-west graduates and is posted to the North Western part of the country, courtesy of the NYSC to explore and contribute to the community is indeed very important. It launches such an individual to his next stage in life and equips such individual with the necessary experiences needed to excel in his career path. It’s no surprise that Nigeria as a nation is closest to its revolutional-breakthrough in massive progress which would be witness soonest among the youths. This feat has been made possible by great minds who have invested their time, commitment, and resources in ensuring that Nigeria becomes a greater nation than it used to be.

Putting different views on a test of time and candid watch, perpetual evidence over time has fully trashed the misconception of different arguments on the NYSC scheme having outlived its usefulness. However, standing the test of time and season, it is now evident with rigid facts that there is no contesting the fact that the NYSC plays a critical role in fostering the country’s economic and social development. It is because of the impact of the outstanding influence of the NYSC scheme in different sectors across the Nation that has now made it well-convincing that recent efforts to set up the NYSC Trust Fund deserves the full support of all and sundry considering the fact that it will provide the impetus to boost the Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Programme for corps members. While noting great numerous streams of success in various sectors already in record under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, there swiftly came an additional great initiative by the National Assembly, which is considering the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Trust Fund Bill, and ensuring seamless passage of this proposed bill that would give firmness to the clarion call for the creation of the NYSC Trust Fund. This heroic support given by the two Chambers of the National Assembly in passing the NYSC trust fund bill has remained a positive game changer for the Nigerian youths. The unpoliticized moves taken by this visionary leaders in power has further solidify the unity and hope of a greater future for our Nation. These are leaders that have continued to seek for ways to put out the flame of ethnic and religious tensions by proffering solutions to the healthy survival of the youths in this nation.

This bill is meant to power sustainability in all ramification as pertains to everything that needs to help actualize the goals and vision of Nigeria Youth Service Corp. The bill sought to address the Infrastructural deficit in the orientation camps, ensure adequate provision of other operational logistics, as well as address the problem of graduate unemployment in the country.
Furthermore, it is worthy of note that when passed into law, this Trust Fund bill would also have a positive impact on the Nigerian youths and citizens in general.

X-raying the immense benefits of NYSC scheme and the Trust Fund bill to our great nation, these expectant contributions are worthy of note:

*IMPROVEMENT IN GENERAL WELFARE*
With this bill in full implementation, the corps members welfare would become better, there will be better maintenance of existing NYSC facilities, and more orientation camps extension to better accommodate youth corps. This Trust Fund bill runs with the vision of enhancing the improvement of the general welfare of corps members and personnel of the scheme and their preparedness to effectively discharge their statutory duties of promoting national unity, integration, self-reliance and accelerated development of the national economy.

*INCREASE IN LOW STEREOTYPICAL RATIO AND GOOD INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP*
In considering the yearnings on unity in this nation, we cannot be oblivious of the fact that there have always been stereotypes and Prejudices view which one ethnic group may have about another. It takes more experience, and moral influence of the life of other ethnic groups to see the lack Of objectivity in such false assumptions. Knowing well that Stereotypes are characteristics are mentally imposed upon groups of people because of their race, nationality, and sexual orientations, it would take more than just educational enlightenment, but an integration into a cultural wellbeing, and this is the revolution NYSC has provided. These characteristics in different groups involved has strengthened the absurdity of human personification in relation to their judgemental reasoning. However, this action has further strength the arm of nepotism in different sectors occupied by people with this stereotypical traits, forgetting that they are not necessarily representative of all people within that group. This syndrome is partly responsible for monumental disunity of the country. The Trust Fund bill would further help to build good interpersonal relationships, galvanize, and strengthens the bond of unity amongst ethnic groups. The experience of ethnic diversity in all forms has helped to appreciate and learn other people’s cultures. This pleasant encounter often dispels whatever myths they may harbor against any other ethnic groups, therefore helping them to transact, and relate better together.

*DRASTIC LOW RATE OF GRADUATE UNEMPLOYMENT*
In accessing the Trust fund by all corps member, there would be massive reduction in the rate of graduate unemployment, as this bill would help enhance the Gains of the SAED Programme. This Trust funds will surely provide many source of funds for the Nigerians Youth Service Corps in terms of skill acquisition training like Web Development, Cyber security, Graphics Deisgn, Content writing, Digital marketing, Mechanized farming, and many more. Considering Capital; being the greatest challenge of every prospective entrepreneurs with great ideas, it’s obvious that this bill is a prayer-answered solution. Apart from providing adequate facilities for more impactful vocational and entrepreneurship training, it would also be a sustainable source of business financing capital for the corps members. This way, greater feats would be achieved in empowering our graduate youths for self-employment and wealth creation. Curbing unemployment among graduates is one of the aim of the Trust funds. Just as the same manner like Tet fund (Tertiary Education Trust Fund), Police Equipment Trust Fund and Petroleum Technology Development Fund, which help in aiding full operations of tertiary educational institutions.

*REDUCED INSURGENCY AND YOUTH RESTIVENESS.*
Taking a peak look at the statistical age range of those actively into terrorism, Insurgency, Banditry, and all other evil vices, it can be undoubtedly concluded that the Youth dominates in numbers. From previous encounters the Armed forces had in combating Insurgency and Banditry, reports were gotten that the Youth made a great number of those involved in this vices. Confession from most of the repentant Bokoharam and the Niger deltan militants revealed that, most of them laid claim to their inability to secure a good job, little to no grant support for their business ideas, the high unemployment rate, and the lack of capital to start something for themselves that made them ventured into causing mayhem and unrest around the country, due to the short-lived promise made to them. This has made them a menace to the peace and unity of the nation.



Moreover, in the issues of funding and many infrastructural decays, the NYSC Trust Funds will help to harness smooth running and operations of the scheme. It would also serve as seed money for many young graduate entrepreneurs after their service. This will not only benefit the youth alone, but would also help secure a good future for the coming generation, and also prepare a good rest for the older generation. There is no doubt that when the NYSC Trust Fund becomes operational, the number of corps entrepreneurs will increase drastically, and they will in turn help to provide jobs for millions of other youths of the country. This will equally help to reduce the issue of security challenges faced in the country. It is instructive that the majority of the lawmakers are products of the scheme as most of them are graduates of tertiary institutions who have participated in the scheme. From their varying and variegated experience going through the scheme, they will agree that corps members are grossly underutilised and one sure way of unleashing the real potential of the corps members is to empower them to be able to acquire new skills and put to use their training. No wonder their speedy approach in passing the bill. They are keen on rejuvenating the 1973 mandate of the NYSC scheme created by the Yakubu Gowon regime.

To face these herculean challenges, the corps members only need to be empowered. The NYSC Anthem to Nigerian youths to obey the clarion call, to lift the nation high, under any circumstances (sun or in the rain), with dedication and selflessness, and to serve a great Nigeria. But, many great ideas have died without requisite enablers, or a light of hope which is funding, mostly for the NYSC. So, when Nigerians call for a trust fund for the scheme, it is to ensure that a dream should survive its purpose.

It would be a great achievement and landmark in history by President Muhammed Buhari’s administration if the bill is imported, and the act signed in the next few days. Therefore, this need to be duly considered by Mr President.
The joy of a Nation to the world is its impactful Productiveness and growth. The growth of a nation is the growth of its youth. Therefore, Passing the NYSC Trust Fund bill into law, will be a Chronicle that will forever remain in the legacy of history Worldwide, and would be known as, _“The move that changed the sovereignty of every Nigerian youth’s Existence “._


Agbese is the All Progressives Congress Candidate for House of Representatives, Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency writing from Agila.

According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, the word ‘Mental’ means “the total emotional and intellectual response of an individual to external reality.”
Likewise, from the same dictionary, the word ‘Choose’ connotes “the act of picking between two or more possibilities”
On its part the word ‘Dimension’ in this context implies “perspective, scope or form”
Hence the Mental Dimension of Choosing a Political Party Flag-Bearer could be said to mean, the extent to which the Individual/ groups’ thought process affects the decision they make in choosing who becomes their political flag-bearer.
Elections can be said to be democratic only when they constitute a real competition among political parties and/or independent candidates. Voters should have a free and informed choice to mentally analyze and conclude on who among various candidates, will be their political representatives without subjection to direct or indirect coercion through monetary, tribalistic, religious or information manipulation.
There must be respect of the basic human rights and freedom to speak, organise, stand for election, and hold meetings or campaign rallies without intimidation or threat of arrest.
Citizens must be engaged by the government, political parties and other stakeholders such as political activists, social commentators, the media and even educational institutions to improve their understanding of complex political issues. Government must formulate relevant and demand-driven policy options, and work with other stakeholders listed above to channel public opinion into the electoral and governing process. Only where parties and their candidates are legally recognised and free to form, and function can they fulfill these roles.
Key guiding principles of democratic governance such as freedom of organisation, freedom to stand for election, freedom of speech and assembly, fair and peaceful competition, plurality, inclusion in the electoral process, level playing field, transparency and accountability of political finance and internal party democracy must be sacrosanct as they could and ultimately influence the electorates decisions and actions during the electioneering process.
What we have in Nigeria today is a situation where the people are subjected to mental manipulation by a segment of the political class using external factors such as monetary inducement, religion, tribalism and violence, to influence their thought patterns and ultimately what actions they take during elections. Taking them one after the other.
1. MONETARY INDUCEMENT
This is one major factor that political actors utilise to play on the psyche of the party delegates and the general voting populace, thereby impeding the rights of the people to freedom of choice and democratic representation.
The World Bank estimates that an additional one million people were pushed into poverty in Nigeria between June and November 2021, resulting in a total of about eight million people being relinquished to poverty in 2021 and bringing our nation's poverty headcount to about ninety-one million.
It is this widespread poverty that is weaponized and used to deny the masses of choices and opportunities through monetary inducement to voters before and during elections in exchange for the freedom to exercise their franchise. It is a total violation of human dignity. This is the reality of millions of Nigerians caught in a constant struggle to survive to the extent that their reasoning is beclouded and the nation’s future is sacrificed on the altar of instant gratification.
2. RELIGION
Some religious leaders in what seems like a departure from their true calling have allowed corrupt politicians armed with manipulative hate speeches and divisive messages access to their pulpits.
The result? The teeming populace today would rather vote along religious lines, throwing out the time-tested parameters of merit and leadership capability. This is rather dangerous for a nation like ours as the deepening of religious divide is only a forbearer of conflict and disharmony. It also breeds a system where people attain political office solely because of their religious inclination, leaving us with round pegs in square holes in most cases.
Among the grave consequences of this bad leadership choice is the possibility of anarchy due to conflicts arising from struggle for scarce resources, real and perceived injustice or marginalisation which eventually leads to breakdown of law and order due to the absence of proper governance.

3. TRIBALISM
According to Wikipedia, “tribalism is the state of being organised in, or advocating for, a tribe or tribes”
Tribalism is a social phenomenon associated with the identity of members of a competing communal group(s) seeking to protect and advance their interest in a political system. The relevant communal factor may be language, culture, race, religion and/or common history.
In the Nigeria of today, tribalism now dominates national discourse, controls how people think how they talk, and even who/what they oppose or support. In a bid to further manipulate the minds of the people, the political elites promote tribalism entrenching it in the minds of the young and elderly, even from generation to generation. Tribalism even has its base in the constitution hence the assumption that conflicts in Nigeria are motivated by ethnic competition.
The 2015 presidential election lent further credence to this assertion as it showed a pattern of voting that was deeply ethno-religious. Both candidates had majority of the votes cast in their respective regions of origin. This trend which appears to have been sustained until now is one of the early warning signs of political crisis and must be addressed in time before these constant tribal animosities affect the youth’s psyche and create a legacy of hate and suspicion which could be passed on from generation to generation.
4. VIOLENCE
Elections are the hallmarks of democracy as it serves the purpose for peaceful change in government and confers political legitimacy on the government of the day. Unfortunately, the desperate struggle for power often breeds violence between factional groups who represent one ethno-religious and/or regional Interest.
The other three factors have a direct impact on the prevalence of violence during elections in the following ways:
The poor are induced with money to perpetuate violence before, during and after elections taking advantage of their need for instant gratification. Errant Religious leaders acting a script surreptitiously written by politicians induce their followers to commit violent acts against adherents of other faith through inflammatory messages delivered yes you guessed it from the pulpit and finally, traditional leaders are not spared in this game of mental manipulation as they too engage in whipping up tribal sentiments that push their subjects to violent extremes with the underlying aim of giving undue advantage to their preferred candidates before, during and after elections.
The immediate result of violence during elections is the instilling of fear in the hearts of the electorates causing them to either stay away from the polling booths or exercise their franchise under an atmosphere of tension and intimidation with the political actors subliminally dictating to them, for whom they eventually cast their votes.
There are other factors at play in a multi-religious, highly diverse, and populous country like Nigeria, however the aforementioned constitute the most threat to the credibility of our electoral process and by extension pose a danger to our collective future as a nation. Continuous failure of the electoral process to bring up competent candidates will eventually lead to the collapse of democracy and governance if left unchecked.
Having said these, the panacea for mental manipulation as described in the preceding paragraphs are number 1, EDUCATION, number 2, EDUCATION and Number 3 EDUCATION. Meaning therefore that there are no short-cuts.
EDUCATION AS A PANACEA
The role of education in democracy cannot be over-emphasized. Democracy is about politics and politics gives rise to leadership. Education on the other hand refers to the acquisition of knowledge and knowledge is in a literal sense information, skills, understanding and experience acquired to make a living. To harmonize both concepts therefore, education and democracy are two inseparable terms that must work together to breed effective leadership in a democratic setting.
It is a fact that democracy and education have what can be described as an intimate relationship such that in a democracy, education is given primacy, for it is pre-requisite for the survival and success of the former. Similarly, education fosters a democratic temper in the minds of people.
Democracy itself is a system where no one is exploited, where everybody is assured a fair standard of living, where there is equal opportunity for work according to abilities and capacities, where economic organisation is based on collective or co-operative basis and where economic projects are geared for the benefit of the community at large.
From a social perspective it connotes the absence of all distractions based on creed, birth, religion, language or possession of money. Everyone is guaranteed fundamental rights, and equality of opportunities is given for the full development of the citizenry.
Looking at this from a wider perspective, you will find further proof that the two terms are positively correlated. The Greek philosopher, Plato studied politics and government, he believed that the best government has a philosopher in charge. The mind of philosophers according to him are trained to use reason and understand ideas. He maintained that the knowledge they acquired would help them govern their people wisely and create best conditions for the people they rule. It goes without saying therefore that education of the political actors is necessary for democracy and good governance to thrive as a proper understanding of democratic tenets and the purpose of governance amongst them will reduce to the barest minimum the tendency to manipulate the electorate and even voters.
Bernard Shaw once said “Democracy implies election of the corrupt few by the ignorant many. Therefore, education is the major means to enrich the strengths and overcome the weaknesses of the people. It is also a means for the widespread diffusion of democratic values”
Education remains the greatest instrument of social emancipation, through education, democracy establishes, maintains and protects the spirit of equality.
From the foregoing, it is obvious that democracy can function properly in any country only if most citizens are properly educated. Broad-based Democracy and Leadership studies should be fully reflected in the academic curriculum with the full dossier of philosophy, psychology and sociology, imbibing the ideals of democracy in the citizenry from infancy and inculcating in them the spirit of tolerance, the courage of convictions, a passion for social justice and social service. That way they will be equipped with the power of judgement, scientific thinking and discernment of right from wrong.

*Courtesy Like Minds 4A New Nigeria*
*Copyright Like Minds 4A New Nigeria*

...vow to mobilize for APC

Northern Christian and Muslim Cerics have thrown their weight behind the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission  NCPC to serve as running mate to Chief Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress,APC  In the forthcoming Presidential Polls.


The clerics who spoke at a one day roundtable discussion in Abuja said there is  the need for a harmonious and balanced ticket for the APC at the polls.


Bishop Sunday Garuba who spoke on behalf of the Christian clerics at the meeting said the outcome of the APC primaries has brought to the fore the need for the APC to do all within its means to ensure a balanced presidential ticket that would stand the test of time and guarantee electoral victory. 


He said the Nigerian Clerics Consultative Forum convoked the  general assembly to deliberate on the issue of a balanced and harmonious presidential ticket that would guarantee electoral victory for the party. 



Garuba said it was due to the various agitations on the choice of the vice presidential candidate of the APC. 


"This is informed by the need for a balanced ticket with the overarching objective of ensuring that the ethno-religious balance of the country is achieved. 


"The necessity of ethno-religious balance cannot be overemphasized, hence the various agitations within the APC on the need for the party to get it right regarding its vice-presidential candidate. 


"The consultative assembly allowed Christian and Muslim clerics from various parts of the country to lend their objective voice to the vice-presidential candidate of the APC.


"Deliberations on the suitability of a Muslim-Muslim ticket were scrutinized objectively by clerics in attendance" he said


The representative of the Muslim clerics,  Sheikh Surajo Abdullahi said the APC's choice of presidential flag bearer for the presidential elections confirms Allah's revelations regarding the personality that would lead Nigeria on the right track. 


He described Aswaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a team player with an unflinching religious and ethnic tolerance, as evident in the fact that his wife is an ordained Pastor of one of the largest Pentecostal churches in Nigeria


He urged the APC presidential candidate to ensure that the choice of his running mate would reflect national balance and harmony.


He added that the choice of Reverend Yakubu Pam who is a a well-respected cleric from Northern Nigeria fits the bill as the Vice Presidential Candidate of the APC for his pedigree at advocating religious and ethnic tolerance in Northern Nigeria. 


"Rev Yakubu Pam is well respected in Northern Nigeria and over decades served as the rallying point for peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Northern Nigeria 


"Rev Yakubu Pam is a cleric that has garnered administrative experience with an unblemished record in service to humanity. 


"Yakubu Pam is a team player whose nomination would give all a sense of belonging towards attaining electoral success" he added

By: Benedict Aguele


Public relations is an integral part of profitable campaigns and the larger political arena. Public relations enables a campaign to get its core messages across effectively and ensure that it is received by the right people at the right places, at the right time and in the right dosage. In order for citizens to be able to have an opinion and make sound decisions about political candidates, they need to be aware of what is happening in their community, whether it's an area on the local or national scale.

The goal of each candidate is to persuade these voters to entrust their votes in their vision. The use of public relations as part of a political campaign process is more critical than ever before as citizens now have access to more information about what their elected officials are doing, and what they need to do, than in years past.

So it is very important for politicians to understand the importance of public relations as it relates with political campaigns.

The importance of public relations to politics is not simply that it helps politicians win votes. It can also help them win the hearts and minds of voters, and persuade them to take certain actions, such as contributing to the campaign purse and canvassing for votes on behalf of their favourite candidate.

Public relations is a field in which the public's perception of an organization or person can be shaped through various channels such as media, advertising, marketing and promotion.


As the use of PR and digital marketing have become more prominent in political campaigns, the combination of public relations, digital media and campaign strategy has played a larger role than ever. Political campaign handlers need to be aware of the benefits and limitations of each channel and strategy, so they can make an informed decision about which tools to deploy in shaping their campaign's message.

Benedict Aguele is the founder boapr.ng a public relations agency based n Abuja

2023: APC stakeholders protest at party’s htqrs over purported Muslim running mate to Tinubu

Thousands of All Progressives Congress (APC) members, on Tuesday, stormed the party’s national headquarters to register their disapproval over reports of a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.

The party faithful, under the auspices of Concerned APC Stakeholders Vanguard, said their motive is to bring the attention of President Muhammadu Buhari, national chairman Abdullahi Adamu and other leaders of “well-orchestrated plot to put our party at risk of losing the presidential elections”.

In a statement signed by Alhaji Mohammed Abdullahi and Hon. Bako Lucas, the group’s national coordinator and secretary, they noted that a Muslim-Muslim ticket is insensitive, considering “the avalanche of notable Christian members that have sacrificed tremendously for the growth and development of our party”.

According to the group, those calling for a Muslim running mate for Bola Tinubu “must realize that the north-central is a critical constituency that needs to be harnessed to present a formidable team that would guarantee electoral success at the elections”.

They, therefore, urged President Buhari to intervene “in this contentious issue that could destroy our great party, given the current complexities with our party by not sanctioning a Muslim-Muslim ticket at the critical hour”.

The group added that the “collective interest of our great party should be our guiding principle, given that Nigeria is a plural society with several factors constantly interplaying with one another, including religious, ethnic, and social aspects”.

They, however, vowed not to relent in their quest for a Christian running mate from north-central, noting that “ we are convinced that our position is in the best interest of our party”.

Read full statement below:

We are gathered here to drive home a crucial point that has the potential to cause an electoral upset for our great party in the forthcoming presidential elections.

As concerned members of the APC under the auspices of Concerned APC Stakeholders’ Vanguard , we have been relentless in our resolve to ensure our great party emerges victorious in the 2023 general elections. As such, this protest march is geared towards bringing to the attention of our father and indefatigable President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Chairman of the party, Senator Abduallahi Adamu that there seems to be a well-orchestrated plot to put our party at risk of losing the presidential elections.

We are all witnesses to the issues that surrounded the conduct of our presidential primaries that saw the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as our presidential flag bearer for the presidential elections.

The clamour for power shift to the south was achieved, which is a plus for our democracy and indeed portrayed our party as a democratic party that accommodates all segments of the Nigerian nation regardless of ethnic or religious factors.

Be that as it may, some urgent grey areas need to be addressed in the quest to position our party for electoral success in the general elections, which is the choice of the running mate to our presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

We wish to inform our indefatigable President Muhammadu Buhari , the National Working Committee and all men of good conscience that some vested interests within the party hierarchy are toying with the idea of fielding a Muslim-Muslim Ticket for the presidential elections.

This will be the highest sense of insensitivity if the Muslim-Muslim ticket is allowed to see the light of the day, considering the avalanche of notable Christian members of our great party that have sacrificed tremendously for the growth and development of our party from its inception.

Those toying with the idea of a Muslim-Muslim ticket must realize that the north-central is a critical constituency that needs to be harnessed to present a formidable team that would guarantee electoral success at the elections.

In the light of the above, if this critical constituency is ignored and the party goes ahead with a Muslim-Muslim ticket, it would be tantamount to political Armageddon. Therefore, it is expedient for our great party's leadership to come to terms with the reality of the prevailing circumstances that have enveloped the country.

The leadership of our great party must realize that it is not enough that we are the ruling party, as achieving electoral success goes beyond that. It also entails that the party is strategic in its choices, including but not limited to the vice-presidential candidate.

We must realize that the opposition parties are roaring to wrestle power from the APC. If this does not give the leadership of our party a source of concern, we can only wonder what else would do.

Therefore, we are using this medium to appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari as the father of our party, to intervene in this contentious issue that could destroy our great party, given the current complexities with our party by not sanctioning a Muslim-Muslim ticket at the critical hour.

This would not only bring about a litany of disenchantment within the party, but it would also portray our party as an insensitive congregation of people in the minds of the generality of Nigerians.

The men and women of goodwill in our great party must lend their voices to this cause to ensure that our party does not disintegrate as we prepare for the general elections as the impact would be felt across the board.

Mr President, as the father of the party, your position on the imposition of a Muslim-Muslim ticket should not be viewed as supporting such injustice to the religious sensitivity of the country.

Mr President must do all within his means to save the party from imminent collapse. The indices in this regard are apparent with the plot to field a Muslim-Muslim ticket for the presidential elections.

It is indeed instructive for us to emphasize that the party leadership cannot feign ignorance that there are no credible candidates for our party's presidential candidate to pick from the north-central region. And we must not disappoint them, for such action's consequences might be politically unpalatable.

We are appealing to those who think otherwise with our position against a Muslim-Muslim ticket that they should have a change of heart and factor in the risk involved in such enterprise, which is counter-productive by all ramifications.

The collective interest of our great party should be our guiding principle, given that Nigeria is a plural society with several factors constantly interplaying with one another, including religious, ethnic, and social aspects.

Mr President, this protest is not by any stretch of imagination designed to cause an embarrassment but rather to bring to your attention on the need for the party to get it right as we march towards the 2023 general elections.

We are convinced that our message will elicit a positive response because our indefatigable President Muhammadu Buhari is a listening president who sacrificed tremendously for the unity of our great party and country.

We are also convinced that in the weeks and months to come, our great party shall do the needful towards presenting to Nigerians a formidable presidential team poised to give life meaning to the teeming Nigerian population.

We shall not relent in this regard because we are convinced that our position is in the best interest of our party. We enjoin all well-meaning members and stakeholders of our party to lend their voices to this noble cause.

Long Live the All Progressive Congress

Long Live Nigeria

By Best Agbese

"The most important thing I learned is that soldiers watch their leaders' actions. You can give them classes and lecture them forever, but it is your personal example they will follow.”– General Colin Powell.
The above quote describes an essential attribute of a war commander that leads by example in his conduct. And coming to Nigeria, the recent successes recorded by the Nigerian Army in the war against terrorism and other acts of criminalities indicate the leadership example the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Faruk Yahaya, provided.
He might not be the loud type that dots the newspaper pages at every given opportunity. He is also not your regular soldier that brandishes his weapon in a display of force. But instead, he is a seasoned tactician who matches his words with actions in every task.
Since the appointment of Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya as the Chief of Army Staff, a lot has happened in the operations of the Nigerian Army. We are witness to numerous successes in North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country.
A well-rounded officer who has held sensitive positions within the Nigerian Army came to the job with loads of experience. Little wonder the excitement that greeted his appointment within the army community. He is regarded by the military circle as that general that talks less but does more than can be imagined.
This attribute is evident in how he handled the Nigerian Army's operations. As a war commander in North-East Nigeria, the Nigerian Army recorded tangible gains. So much so that when he left the theatre of operations, officers and soldiers sang to the high heavens in his praises.
They knew what to expect regarding operational efficiency, especially in addressing the security challenges posed by the Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists. And so far, he has not disappointed. His knack for excellence witnessed the restructuring of military operations across the country.
It is indeed a case of a round peg in a round a-hole hence the cheering news coming from North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country where military operations are ongoing. The beauty of the Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya's strategy is the palpable inter-agency cooperation in addressing the security challenges across the country.
This feat has been largely attributed to his emphasis on teamwork, an attribute he has inculcated in the minds of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army since he assumed office. This is brilliant and further emphasizes his disposition to work.
Little wonder that in a year at the helm of affairs of the Nigerian Army, he has caused a drastic turnaround in operational efficiency. Officers and soldiers regularly display acts of gallantry in various operations because they learn from the leadership example set by the Chief of Army Staff. I am, therefore, of the opinion that sound leadership is critical to addressing the challenges facing us as a country. And the Nigerian Army example is worthy of mention and emulation if we are desirous of making progress.
I am not surprised by the exploits of Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya because he is such a brilliant infantry officer that has held command positions in the Nigerian Army before his appointment as Chief of Army Staff. Notably, he was at a time Military Secretary, Army Headquarters and General Officer Commanding, One Division of the Nigerian Army. Amongst a host of other command appointments.
As a well-grounded infantry officer, he has several awards in his kitty. They include Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, Grand Service Star, National Defence Course (Chile), Economic Community of West Africa State Monitoring Group Medal, Command Medal, Field Command Medal, General Operations Medal, Silver Jubilee Medal and Golden Jubilee Medal.
It is indeed a story of where passion meets commitment. And the result is what is experienced in North-East Nigeria and other parts of the country by the display of acts of gallantry by officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.
Nigerians must come to terms with the fact that Lt. Gen Faruk Yahaya is indeed a gallant general whose leadership strides have brought to the fore the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in recent times. This is commendable and buttresses the quote by General Collin Powell on how the personal examples of their commander influence troops.
Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya has set worthy examples in leadership. He has also demonstrated the capacity to lead when it matters most in this critical point of our existence. This piece is in celebration of a gallant officer that has matched words with actions. He deserves all the support he can get as he soldiers on.
“We all have dreams. But to make dreams become a reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort.” This is the case of Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya.


Agbese is a researcher and author writing from Abuja.

The attention of the Tinubu Campaign Organisation has been drawn to a viral document said to be the manifesto of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The document is currently being circulated via social media platforms in his name, despite the TCO informing editors that it is merely a draft proposal and suggestions on the programme he should implement, when elected in February 2023. A manifesto is a more serious document.

The TCO hereby formally dissociates Asiwaju Tinubu from the document.

In a press release signed on Sunday, the Campaign Organisation's Director of Media and Communication, Mr. Bayo Onanuga said that the manifesto being shared mostly via WhatsApp and Facebook is not the official campaign manifesto of the APC presidential candidate.

Asiwaju Tinubu, in consultation with the party, experts in various fields and a broad section of the populace, through empirical and evidence-based approach, is working on an all-embracing manifesto that will be presented to Nigerians when it is ready before the official campaign begins in September.

While acknowledging that the manifesto in circulation was prepared by some senior associates of the APC presidential candidate, Onanuga said the manifesto was a private initiative, which Tinubu has not personally endorsed and accepted.

"I want to place it on record that the manifesto being circulated via social media platforms and already published by a section of the mainstream media is not the official Manifesto of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and All Progressives Congress for 2023 general election.

“While our presidential candidate appreciates the spirit and efforts of his associates that produced the document being passed around mostly on WhatsApp, we want to clearly state that the document is an unofficial document and Tinubu can not be held accountable on any of the issues raised in the document.

“The Presidential candidate and APC are currently working on an all-embracing manifesto that will inspire the confidence of Nigerians. When the official policy document of Tinubu is ready it will be formally presented to Nigerians and our candidate will be in a position to defend every word that will be contained therein.

“We appreciate the interest and enthusiasm of Nigerians to know about the programmes and policy options Asiwaju Tinubu will pursue in government when elected. He is a tested and experienced leader who will bring his knowledge and expertise to run a government that will meet the aspiration and yearnings of our people across every sector," the statement said.


Bayo Onanuga
Director, Media & Communication
Tinubu Campaign Organisation

_STATEMENT_

*Lawsuit: Benue PDP jittery over looming defeat, Gov Ortom’s poor performance*


The All Progressive Congress (APC) candidates in Benue State have confidently described the suit instituted against them by the People Democratic Party (PDP) as an exercise in futility that is meant to distract the APC from its ongoing pact-building with voters in the state.

The PDP’s lawsuit bellyaching over the successful direct primaries that produced APC candidates is a frivolity that is designed to waste the time of the court while creating the wrong impression about the landslide victory that the APC is poised to record in the coming General Elections.

We are putting PDP on notice that our lawyers will meet them in court to educate them and reverse their poor understanding of the electoral process and legislation. The PDP missed it with its obsession that the APC in Benue state held direct primaries instead of indirect primaries and did not supposedly meet the stipulation of the law.

For the records, our party’s primary election met all the requirements of the law. The only problem the PDP has is the intimidating calibre of candidates that the exercise produced, especially our Gubernatorial Candidate, Rev. Fr. Hycinth Alia who is a replica of the Buhari phenomenon in Kano, Katsina and Bauchi. The emergence of Rev. Fr Alia has finally put a stop to the PDP’s lie of “herdsmen and defence of the valley”. Who can defend the valley better than a Catholic priest who spent his entire life mobilizing resources for the poor?

The PDP feels the only way it can escape its guaranteed defeat in the General Elections is to embark on the judicial abracadabra that it is known for, which includes engaging unholy persons within the temple of justice to torpedo our long-awaited victory.

Why would any right-thinking person who has been governor for eight years or another who has been a minister for four years and a senator for years be afraid of the APC if not for their record of dismal performance? Why should a former governor and senator develop phobia for a former house of representatives member?

It is our sincere view that the PDP is jittery because it has failed the Benue people and the electorates have made up their minds to send them packing come 2023.

Time shall indeed tell. We are waiting.


Hon. Chief Philip Agbese
APC Candidate for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency.

Spokesman,
Benue APC National Assembly Candidates
11/06/2022.

African Democratic Congress Presidential Aspirant, Dumebi Kachikwu has been tipped to beat the odds and win the ADC Presidential primary election, scheduled for Wednesday, 8th June 2022 in Abeokuta, Ogun State. sources in the party are believed, that the media & real estate mogul, who threw his hat into the ring, is ahead of other aspirants

Dumebi Kachikwu is hands down the best person to represent African Democratic Congress. He is the only Aspirant fit for the job of leading the African Democratic Congress party.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential aspirant Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, was on Tuesday tipped to win the party's Presidential Primary election.

Dumebi Kachikwu, an aspirant for the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday night in Abeokuta has also assured that his party would carry out a credible primary election.

Kachikwu told supporters that with the high quality of aspirants in the party, there would be no room for rigging or imposition.

Kachikwu said that he had the capacity and experience to take Nigeria from its current state of strife, unemployment, and insecurity to greatness.

He expressed optimism that he would emerge as the presidential candidate in the June 8 primary election and win the general election come 2023.

According to him, we will not lose; ADC will win and form the government at the center after the elections.

ADC is an alternative to APC and PDP.

Also in a reaction, the Dumebi Volunteer Network, on Wednesday said there was no doubt that Dumebi Kachikwu, would win the presidential primary election of the party scheduled to hold in Abeokuta.

The coordinator of the Dumebi Volunteer Network, Mr. Mohammed Basah, made this known in a statement.

Basah said he was confident that Kachikwu would win the presidential primary election because of his experience and competence.

Kachikwu has displayed rare qualities and competent leadership that is needed at this point in our national life to rekindle hope for a better Nigeria for all Nigerians.


Basah went ahead to urge all the other aspirants not to fight but to organize for the common interest of the party and Nigerians. He said the opposition was planning an agenda for next year's general elections, adding that Nigerians have no option but to accept change if they are interested in moving their country forward.

By: KAYODE AJULO

Lend me your ears, O Noble People of our Great Land!

The President, our President has spoken. He spoke loud, some would say cryptically but his language, to the initiated is clear and unambiguous.

He has spoken like a true General that he is, a General in the Army of a State, not a rag-tag army, neither an army of bandits.

Generals are masters of the game of warfare, strategists and tacticians. The feat of leading men to war from which they may never return takes all the wisdom and strategy only a thoroughbred General can muster.

Our General Buhari, yes, our President Buhari is one who possesses all these qualities and a whole lot more.

Like all officers who rose to become Generals in an Army like the Nigerian Armed Forces, President Buhari at different times in his career led patrols, platoons and companies. He commanded Battalions, Brigades and Divisions. He was a Field Commander too, he was and now is the Commander-in-Chief of the strongest army of the largest black Nation.

President Buhari has spoken and we heard him right when he addressed the APC Governors yesterday.

He made it clear that he has a candidate. Who wouldn't? He unequivocally stated that he wanted his candidate to be his successor. Again, I ask, who would not?

President Buhari did not shy away from saying that the objective of the Party "must be the victory of our party and our choice of candidate must be someone who would give the Nigerian masses a sense of victory and confidence even before the elections."

I beg to ask who fits the above bill?
Who does this cap fit?
Who enjoys a wide acceptance such that over 4000 groups have been clamouring for his emergence over the past one year?
Who is able to ensure "a sense of victory and confidence even before the elections" in the spirit of that which was expressly penned by the President other than PYO?

Though PYO himself has been diffident about bringing himself forward to the admiration of his principal, this project can be said to have been on for several years as Senator Ojudu and others are living witnesses to the constant, consistently passionate and patriotic agitations that have hitherto cut cross across the length and breadth of Nigeria.

It is an undeniable fact that without throwing money around like some others, PYO today, has a cult-like followership with far-flung and widespread support which made it possible and easy for him to embark on and execute a nationwide interactive sessions with APC delegates as well as non-partisan stakeholders in all the 36 States and Federal Capital Territory, whereas none of his fellow aspirants has been able to achieve this great feat.

Again, Paragraph 7 of the President's speech to the APC Governors is insightful and instructive as the President left no one in doubt to state that his candidate must be the one to ensure "continuity and smooth succession"

Continuity denotes the unbroken existence and extension of an action, a policy or even a government. Succession on the other hand denotes the existence of an intended successor.

The American Constitution (by its 25th Amendment) upon which the Nigerian Constitution is based, expressly declares the Vice President as the Successor of the President. Yes, it is in the event of the President's incapacitation by any reason listed in the Constitution and during the pendency of their joint term, it however gives teeth to my long held and often advocated conviction that the Vice-President, when his joint term with the President is coming to an end should of necessity be given a first right of refusal to succeed his Principal having been a constitutionally recognised successor for two terms.

Who else can truly be trusted to succeed the President and be trusted to continue those laudable policies of the present administration other than the man who has been in the thick of it all for seven unbroken, meritorious and crises-free years?

I am further bolstered in our conviction by the well-known fact that our dear President, being a genuine statesman, though usually of very few words would have carefully considered the swing of the national pendulum and in his characteristic self, taken the high road of rightfully choosing his successor in the person of his loyal Deputy before penning those golden words.

Fellow Nigerians, given the above, I have the pleasure to affirm my conviction that the President has chosen a worthy, loyal, brilliant and admirable successor and the discerning would see that indeed Baba has spoken.

May the Almighty, the most Merciful and most Magnificent continue to bless Nigeria and bless you all.

1st June, 2022

Dr Kayode Ajulo, FCIArb. UK
Castle of Law, Maitama,
Abuja-Nigeria
kayodeajulo@castleoflaw.com

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is set to hold a webinar engagement tagged, "2023 Election and the imperative for strategic participation of Niger Delta youths" on Saturday the 4th of June, 2022.

The webinar which will hold from 10:00am will be hosted by the Interim Administrator/CEO of the commission Dr. Effiong Akwa, and will feature speakers like Mr. Sam Hart who is the chancellor of Sam Hart Center for Strategic Leadership, and Mr. Azubike Osumili who is the MD/CEO of Inspiration Media Group, the owners of Inspiration FM Lagos, Uyo and Ibadan.

The event is aimed at creating an environment, conducive to the development of the region through meaningful engagements.

The convener of this event who is a former International President of the Ijaw Youth Council, also a former commissioner of Youth and later Environment in the Senator Dickson led Bayelsa State administration and now the Special Assistant on youths to the Interim Administrator/CEO Niger Delta Development Commission, Engr. Udengs Eradiri made this known to news men in Port Harcourt during the week while receiving some stakeholders supporting the commission in its effort to engage youth in governance, peace-building, and stakeholder engagement.

Engr. Eradiri echoed "through our convening of webinar conferences which was borne out of the Covid-19 pandemic and our continuous provision of relevant information, The Niger Delta Development Commission remains committed to ensuring Niger Delta Youths remain informed as well as empowered to play a significant role in deciding the country's future".

"The Niger Delta Region is a strong force in determining who will pilot the affairs of our country and the youths in particular must be informed on key roles to play in the coming election".

It is noteworthy that in 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned three massive projects by the NDDC which includes the 13 storey headquarters building, the Special Protection Unit barracks for the Nigerian Police Force, the 1050 bed space hostel in the University of Uyo amongst other projects.

The Efiong Akwa led management remains poised in its mandate of bringing developments to the region as directed by Mr President.

Today, the duo of His Excellency, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Benin Republic and Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun (rtd) were conferred with traditional titles by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Doctor) Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, Okere of Saki Kingdom. During the ceremony, His Excellency, Ambassador, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd) and Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun (rtd) were conferred with the traditional titles of Jagunmolu of Saki Kingdom (the Benevolent Warrior) and Akinrogun of Saki Kingdom (Unique Warrior Lover), respectively. The conferment took place at the palace of Okere of Saki, shortly after Jumma’at Prayer at Saki Central mosque.

Shortly after their conferment with the titles, which involved the traditional decoration with the spiritual leaves and presentation with other regalia and office paraphernalia, the Ambassador responded on their behalf. He thanked His Royal Majesty, the Okere of Saki, for the honour and recognition, which he said they would not take for granted. He also reiterated their resolve to be loyal and dedicated to discharging their roles as holders of those titles. It is essential to state that the two Generals were the first non-indigenes of the Saki kingdom to be honoured with such prestigious traditional titles of the domain in special recognition of their numerous contributions to national development, peace and security.

Earlier at the Jumma’at prayer, the Chief Imam of Saki thanked Lt Gen Buratai (rtd) for his wonderful disposition towards the Saki kingdom while serving as Chief of Army Staff as manifested in the various humanitarian assistance to the domain. He cited the establishment of the Command Science Secondary School, boreholes and other infrastructural development projects. In his response at the mosque, Lt Gen TY Buratai thanked them for the prayers and stated that what he did was part of the Nigerian Army’s humanitarian activities, referred to as corporate social responsibility, aimed at enhancing civil-military relations between the Nigerian Army and host communities. He expressed delight that the current Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya, has continued in the same vein. He then prayed for peace in the country. He thanked the Saki community for their hospitality and the harmonious relationship between it and the military, security agencies and other ethnic groups living in the kingdom, which has helped in enhanced peace and security in the domain and urged them to continue in that regard.

Various dignitaries from different parts of the country witnessed the occasion. These include the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigerian Army, Major General GO Chibuisi and some of his commanders. Others were traditional rulers such as Olowu of Kuta; His Royal Majesty Oba Hammed Adekunle Makama Oyelude Oluwo of Kuta, and His Royal Majesty Oba John Oyetola Bolarinwa Olubiyi II Ajagungbade I Onigboho of Igboholand, as well as Doctor Manzo Ahmed and Brigadier General AK Lawal (rtd), amongst others.

Before the two events, dignitaries also graced a medical outreach conducted by Tukur and Tukur Foundation at Saki Town Hall.

Northern group flays Sule Lamido, dismisses his advice to Jonathan as poisoned chalice

The Arewa Progressives Front (APF) has again taken former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido to the cleaners over his advice to Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, describing him as a mortal hater of Dr. Jonathan from whom nothing good could come from by way of counsel.
Against the background of the rumour of Dr. Jonathan being persuaded to contest the forthcoming 2023 presidential elections, Lamido last weekend jumped into the conversation by warning that the former President risked God’s wrath if he succumbed to the calls that he should dump PDP for APC.
However, reacting with a rebuke, APF dismissed Lamido as a mere “grandstander who always bears a poisoned chalice coated in mischief”, especially in his unsolicited counsel for Jonathan.
In a statement signed by Mohammed Umar, APF’s national coordinator, the group declared that a well-respected statesman like Jonathan did not need any counsel from “integrity challenged politicians” like Lamido.
Umar stated: “Funny how every Tom, Dick and Harry jump into the wagon of an imaginary political postulation to offer unsolicited counsel to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
“Dr. Jonathan, an accomplished statesman and world acclaimed democrat, does not need any advice from some politicians, heavily laden with unspeakable political baggage and integrity challenge like Sule Lamido to advice him.”
The group recalled that it had last February responded to another remark by Lamido where he suggested that former President Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan might no longer be a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as cheap posturing, mischievous and self-serving.
Noting then that Lamido had consistently made negative comments about Dr. Jonathan with the intention of casting a slur on the former President’s hard-earned reputation, APF labelled the former governor a hypocrite who should be ignored.
In the statement issued last February in Abuja, the group had said: “The Arewa Progressives Front (APF) read with some sense of concern, the latest statement credited to the former governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Sule Lamido, where he questioned the membership of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
“While one shouldn’t be worried, about the timing of Mallam Sule Lamido’s concern, we find it imperative to respond, understanding that this is just another attempt, to blame his sinking fortune in the party and the trouble he and people like him are causing in the PDP, especially as Lamido and others, are presently engaged in the battle for the hijack of the soul of the PDP.
The statement also said: “We are surprised that Mallam Lamido should arrogate to himself the power of determining who is and who is no more in the party. As a former governor, he has access to the former president and could have easily reached out to him if he wasn’t playing his consistent card of mischief.
“It should be noted, that at a time that people like Mallam Sule Lamido, were evasive during the challenging days of the PDP, not only was President Goodluck Jonathan available to save the soul of the party, he also provided leadership, even to the detriment of his personal ambition, to remain as Nigeria’s President.”
APF further described former Governor Sule Lamido statement as “another cheap attempt, at calling out President Jonathan, for no obvious reason other than to divert attention from the rumbles within the PDP, orchestrated by the mischief and selfishness of people like him.”
It noted that even as President of Nigeria and the then leader of the PDP, Mallam Lamido had “always been negative, consistently negative, about Dr Goodluck Jonathan.”
The group recalled that lamido had in 2019 “deceitfully and maliciously accused former President Jonathan of complicity in the Malabu oil case, even when the former President was neither linked nor indicted by any law enforcement body across all the countries that investigated the saga.”
“Before then, while Jonathan was still President this same shameless politician had raised baseless and malicious allegation against an unnamed cabinet minister who he accused of collecting N40 billion bribe without any shred of evidence.
It stated further: “It was in the same light that he mischievously accused former President Jonathan of helping the All Progressives Congress (APC) to win the last gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State, the result of which was later overturned by the Supreme Court in favour of PDP. Meanwhile, this same Lamido, self-styled saviour of the PDP, served as governor of Jigawa State for two terms under the platform of the PDP, but handed over to an APC governor because he could not secure victory for PDP, even as a sitting Governor. Hypocrisy has no better name than this!”
APF further advised Nigerians to ignore the former Governor’s comments on Jonathan, stressing that “it was not made out of love for his party or country but simply mischievous and self-serving.”
“Dr Goodluck Jonathan has continued to do his best to protect and strengthen democracy and promote peace in Nigeria and beyond.
“He deserves all the accolades that he has received from both Nigerians and the international community for this and not petty condemnation from Sule Lamido, and his ilk. We are not unaware that certain persons and interest groups may not be happy that his profile has further risen, but they do Nigeria gross disservice when they act so unpatriotically.
“Finally, we want to appeal to the public to be wary of such reckless tactics now on display, which form the substance of an odd, malicious campaign targeted at Dr Goodluck Jonathan.”
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The All Progressives Congress Coalition of Young Leaders, said it has concluded plans, to embark on a "one-million-man march", to prevail former Nigeria's President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, to join the APC. The group said the plan, is to join other patriotic members of the party, who have been calling on the former President, to come into the party, and make himself available, as a Presidential candidate of the party, for 2023 presidential election.


The group in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Ambassador Abdulwaheed Oyeniyi, said it is appalled, by the attempt by some people, it described as selfish politicians within the party, to resist the call, on the former President, to join the APC. It said some desperate politicians are already being intimidated, by the continued rising call by Nigerians, even beyond the party line, on Dr Jonathan, to make himself available for the leadership of the country, once again.


"We decided to march and demand that former President Jonathan should join our dear party and should make himself available, to run, as a candidate, for the 2023 presidential election. This call, we expected, should excite every well meaning members of our party, who are interested in the path, towards ensuring that the APC retains power at the centre and also present a candidate, that is widely acceptable to Nigerians, have the capacity to stabilize the country and ultimately sustain the achievements of our leader, President Muhammadu Buhari"

“We will prevail on our members, particularly our young people, to support this call, and join the historic One million-man March."

"We urge our members and leaders, not to allow the toxic lies of unhappy yesterday men to make us lose sight of the great things happening around us. Where they see hardship let us see opportunities that are up for grabs." the statement concluded.

*2023: APC stakeholders, support groups reject Jonathan’s participation in party’s primary*

Ahead of the All Progressives Congress’ presidential primary, a coalition of party stakeholders and other faithful, under the auspices of the APC Presidential Support Groups, have rejected the purported move by former President, Goodluck Jonathan, to participate in the exercise.

The groups, which comprise of party leaders, including youths and women across the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory, said Jonathan is yet to resign his membership of the People’s Democratic Party barely a month to the primary.

And even if he hurriedly defects to the APC, the party faithful noted that he may not have a full grasp of the party’s ideology before the elections.

According to Chief Dauda Owolabi, the coalition’s coordinating chairman, resounding defeat awaits the party should it allow Jonathan to participate in the exercise.

Owolabi spoke on Wednesday at a World Press Conference in Abuja.

While admitting that the former President commands respect from Nigerians, Chief Owolabi noted that there are numerous candidates in the party that have broad appeal across the country, flaunting credible credentials that can guarantee the party's electoral success.

According to the APC stakeholders and support groups, Jonathan presence will lead to chaos in the party and ultimately set it for defeat at the polls.

They, therefore, urged the party to “do all within its means not to engage in any enterprise that would puncture the fragile peace restored in the party after the painstaking efforts of members of the party in ensuring that the party is well-positioned for electoral success in the 2023 general elections”.

Owolabi further said the APC as a party should be known for upholding democratic principles as customary with its blueprint for development.

He, however, urged party faithful to keep the faith and not relent in preparedness for the 2023 general elections.

Read full statement below:

The leadership of the APC Presidential Support Groups, a coalition of stakeholders of the party with representatives from the 36 states of the federation and the federal capital territory, welcomes you all to this world press conference.

We thank you all for attending despite your busy schedule due to the urgency of the situation at hand on why the APC must get it right in fielding the most suitable candidate that would guarantee success for the party in the presidential election.

We must admit that the importance of winning the 2023 presidential elections cannot be overemphasized in the bid to ensure continuity in the laudable policies and initiatives of the APC led government in Nigeria.

The APC Presidential Support Groups find the party's various mechanisms in preparedness for the 2023 general elections noteworthy. We wish to commend the party's leadership thus far and encourage them not to relent until electoral success is attained at all levels in the 2023 general elections.

However, we are constrained to lend our voice to an ugly plot that is being hatched by some members of the APC concerning adopting former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as the presidential candidate of the party in the 2023 presidential election.

By all stretch of the imagination, this plot is ill-timed and not in the party's interest at large. Such a move implies that the party might be heading towards a resounding electoral defeat in the presidential election.

With utmost respect to the personality of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, there are numerous candidates in the party that commands broad appeal across the country and with credible credentials that can guarantee the party's electoral success.

Some of these individuals are notable and committed members of the party whose contributions to the growth and development of the party from inception have been outstanding in ways too numerous to mention.

It, therefore, defeats common sense for some elements within the party to think in their wisdom that a non-member of the party can be adopted as a presidential candidate and expect to deliver electoral success for the party.

It is our considered opinion that the APC as a party has gone through some difficult times that threatened its foundation, but for the swift intervention of dedicated party faithful to save the day and restore normalcy within the party's ranks.

It is instructive to note that former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). At the time of this press conference, he hasn't resigned his membership.

It is also common knowledge that, as it stands, former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan does not understand the ideology and the social contract the APC has with the people of Nigeria concerning our development blueprint and agenda.

If this is the case, we are tempted to ask what former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan would be bringing to the table as the party's presidential candidate, other than chaos and disunity amongst the teeming members of the APC.

Those behind the plot to bring in former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan into the APC as its presidential candidate are possibly blinded by selfish ambition that, by and large, is guaranteed to disintegrate the party and bring it into disrepute.

This is on the heels that the proposed adoption of former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan would make a mockery of all that the APC represents as a party of progressives. We also stand the risk of a mass exodus from the party and a litany of court cases by aggrieved members of the party.
The leadership of the APC must do all within its means not to engage in any enterprise that would puncture the fragile peace restored in the party after the painstaking efforts of members of the party in ensuring that the party is well-positioned for electoral success in the 2023 general elections.

Instead, it is expected that the APC as a party dissipates energy on ensuring a transparent presidential primary where the best candidate from its fold emerges as the presidential candidate.

The APC as a party should be known for upholding democratic principles as customary with our blueprint for development. It must not be seen as engaging in undemocratic acts that fuel impunity and disenchantment within its ranks.

The APC Presidential Support Groups wishes to state in unequivocal terms that adopting former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan should be a topic for consideration because the consequences of such a move might be unpleasant for the party in the 2023 general elections.

Those elements within the APC that are bent on disintegrating the party should desist from such ignoble enterprise. They should look inwards and see the strengths of the various aspirants that have indicated an interest in contesting the presidential elections. This way, the APC as a party would be guaranteed a united house prepared to go for the elections in 2023.

The APC Presidential Support Groups wishes to appeal to all members of the APC across the 36 states of the federation to keep the faith and not relent in preparedness for the 2023 general elections.

Thank you all for your time and attention.

CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATION TO AGENTS OF DESTABILIZATION IN NIGERIAN FOOTBALL: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

A coalition of over 87 Civil Society Organizations, the Civil Society Network for Good Governance, has called on vested interests trying to destabilize Nigerian football to retrace their steps. In a press conference held in Abuja, the President of the Network, Barr. Adefila Kamal, said that “the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and its recognized affiliates, is the only body known to FIFA as being responsible for football governance matters in Nigeria”.

Barr Kamal also cautioned that “all attempts to change the leadership of football in Nigeria must follow due process as laid down in the statutes of the NFF and endorsed by the FIFA statutes”.

The group also cautioned Nigerians to “recall that over the years our country had been on the brink of suspension from involvement in international footballing activities a couple of times” and no one should attempt to take Nigeria back to the dark ages of football administration in the country.

The group pointed out that “right reasoning Nigerians are weary of these antics of selfish individuals who, when they don’t get what they want through due process, resort to under-the-table methods that run foul of the established football order that has been in place for decades”.

The group condemned the protest action by a group led by Harrison Jalla, while noting that Jalla “embarked on a campaign of calumny against the NFF President Amaju Pinnick, as he had done during the tenure of Alh. Sani Lulu as President, when he was denied a demand for a contract from the NFF due to his not meeting due process checks”.

The group also noted that “Mr. Jalla and his group do not represent any players as he purports to, with the National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF), having made a publication denouncing him and his group”. Barr Adefila challenged Jalla “to produce a verifiable register of players who are members of the so called association he has been using to rain blackmail on the leadership of a duly constituted and recognized institution such as the NFF”.
While noting that Jalla was in court in Warri delta State, and that “the protest action he embarked on was an act of contempt of court”, the group said it would “take him up appropriately in court”.

The group warned “Harrison Jalla and his fellow agents of destabilization to desist from tampering with one of the few institutions that unite Nigerians especially at this time”, while stating that “Nigerians will hold him responsible for any further attempts to disturb the peace using football as cover”.