₦airaland Forum

Faduri Joseph, a prominent figure in the Labour Party, has voiced concerns over the transparency of campaign funds during the 2023 Presidential Elections. In an open letter through his media director, Rev. Emmanuel Olorunmagba, Joseph called on the party's Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to provide a clear account of the financial transactions. He emphasized the need for accountability, especially considering the support received from Nigerians worldwide. Joseph urged a thorough examination of the party's financial records to identify shortcomings and rectify them for future elections. He stressed that transparency was crucial for building trust and credibility in the eyes of the electorate.

As the Supreme Court gears up to announce its final decisions on contested governorship elections in various Nigerian states, the nation is engulfed in heightened tension. The legal battles involve key states such as Kano, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Delta, Bauchi, and Plateau, with the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the main contenders.

Security measures are intensified in anticipation of potential reactions to the verdicts. In Nasarawa, the PDP believes their candidate, David Emmanuel Ombugadu, has a strong case, emphasizing adherence to case merits. In Delta, concerns arise over the interpretation of constitutional Section 137, with PDP dismissing alleged covert support for APC.

Plateau State witnesses increased security due to recent unrest. Kano experiences anxiety, while in Kaduna, opposition supporters consider defecting to APC if Governor Uba Sani prevails. Security is a priority in both states.

APC and PDP express confidence, with heightened expectations for justice from the Supreme Court in these critical matters.

On Thursday, a presidential aide confirmed the distribution of palliative items worth N200 million to senators and N100 million to members of the House of Representatives by the federal government. The announcement was made by Olusegun Dada, the Special Assistant on Social Media to President Bola Tinubu, via his official X handle.

Dada clarified that after initial logistics delays, senators and House of Representatives members had commenced the process of taking stock of the distributed palliative items for their constituents. Each House of Representatives member received items valued at N100 million, while senatorial constituencies were provided with palliative items worth N200 million.

However, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, disputed the claim, stating that he had not received any palliative items from the federal government. Adaramodu explained that he personally funded the distribution of food items and money to his constituents for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

While responding to the assertion, Adaramodu questioned whether it was the minister or the president who made the statement, emphasizing that he had not received any food items from the federal government. He highlighted that if the items had been handed over to them, trailers loaded with food items would be visible across all constituencies.

Adaramodu affirmed his tradition of independently distributing rice and money to constituents annually, even during his tenure as Chief of Staff in Ekiti State before being elected into the House of Representatives.

Ezrel Tabiowo, media adviser to the immediate past Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, also expressed unawareness regarding the receipt of palliative items by his principal. Tabiowo pointed out that the former Senate President's outreaches and palliative distributions were often personally funded by his foundation.

Tabiowo criticized the claim of N200 million being sufficient to buy bags of grains to sustain an entire constituency, highlighting the implausibility of the amount in relation to the number of bags each lawmaker could receive as palliative.

An aide to Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, disclosed anonymously that the senator had not received any palliative items from the government. The aide clarified that the items distributed to constituents were funded personally.

Presidential Spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale did not respond to inquiries seeking comments on the matter. The conflicting statements and denials from several lawmakers raise questions about the transparency and accuracy of the reported distribution of palliative items by the federal government.

On Thursday, a presidential aide confirmed the distribution of palliative items worth N200 million to senators and N100 million to members of the House of Representatives by the federal government. The announcement was made by Olusegun Dada, the Special Assistant on Social Media to President Bola Tinubu, via his official X handle.

Dada clarified that after initial logistics delays, senators and House of Representatives members had commenced the process of taking stock of the distributed palliative items for their constituents. Each House of Representatives member received items valued at N100 million, while senatorial constituencies were provided with palliative items worth N200 million.

However, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, disputed the claim, stating that he had not received any palliative items from the federal government. Adaramodu explained that he personally funded the distribution of food items and money to his constituents for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

While responding to the assertion, Adaramodu questioned whether it was the minister or the president who made the statement, emphasizing that he had not received any food items from the federal government. He highlighted that if the items had been handed over to them, trailers loaded with food items would be visible across all constituencies.

Adaramodu affirmed his tradition of independently distributing rice and money to constituents annually, even during his tenure as Chief of Staff in Ekiti State before being elected into the House of Representatives.

Ezrel Tabiowo, media adviser to the immediate past Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, also expressed unawareness regarding the receipt of palliative items by his principal. Tabiowo pointed out that the former Senate President's outreaches and palliative distributions were often personally funded by his foundation.

Tabiowo criticized the claim of N200 million being sufficient to buy bags of grains to sustain an entire constituency, highlighting the implausibility of the amount in relation to the number of bags each lawmaker could receive as palliative.

An aide to Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, disclosed anonymously that the senator had not received any palliative items from the government. The aide clarified that the items distributed to constituents were funded personally.

Presidential Spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale did not respond to inquiries seeking comments on the matter. The conflicting statements and denials from several lawmakers raise questions about the transparency and accuracy of the reported distribution of palliative items by the federal government.

The presidency has reiterated its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by Nigerians, emphasizing that President Bola Tinubu is attuned to the concerns of the populace. Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, highlighted the president's proactive stance in acknowledging the difficulties experienced by Nigerians and expressed his receptiveness to ideas for alleviating these challenges.

Onanuga conveyed President Tinubu's dedication to ensuring that Nigerians do not endure unnecessary hardships. He affirmed that Tinubu is consistently engaged with public opinion, staying informed through daily readings of newspapers and columnist perspectives. The president's ability to distill public sentiment and respond to the temporary problems faced by the people is evident in various engagements.

In a post on X, Onanuga specifically pointed to Tinubu's decision to implement a 50 percent transport fare rebate during the Yuletide season as a manifestation of his commitment to easing the burden on Nigerians. The initiative, which involves the Federal Government covering half of the transport costs for those traveling home by road, reflects Tinubu's compassionate nature and desire to provide relief to the people.

President Tinubu's compassionate disposition was underscored by Onanuga, who emphasized that Tinubu would go to great lengths to prevent the suffering of the Nigerian populace. This commitment aligns with Tinubu's overarching approach of actively listening to Nigerians, understanding their concerns, and taking tangible steps to address the challenges they face.

As the presidency continues to prioritize the well-being of Nigerians, President Tinubu's responsiveness to public sentiment and his compassionate leadership style remain pivotal in shaping policies and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the citizenry.

The political rivalry between Governor Sim Fubara and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike took an unusual turn during the festive season as both leaders engaged in a high-profile gesture of goodwill: distributing bags of rice to the residents of Rivers State.

Despite the backdrop of a longstanding political feud, the distribution of customised rice bags adorned with the faces of the prominent political figures became a conspicuous feature in Port Harcourt and its environs.

Governor Wike reportedly allocated 2,000 bags of rice to each local government area, adopting a broad approach. In contrast, Governor Fubara opted for a more targeted strategy, distributing 100 bags per ward.

Numerous stakeholder groups, including political factions, youth associations, market unions, non-indigenous communities, and landlord associations, found themselves recipients of these politically-branded rice offerings.

While social media buzzed with commentary, some users cynically questioned the motive behind the distribution and even the quality of the rice. However, investigations revealed that the rice in the customised bags met quality standards, with no complaints from the recipients.

Addressing the impasse and emerging issues, Senator Magnus Abe, the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in the 2023 election in Rivers State, voiced his concerns on a popular radio station, Super 93.3 FM, Port Harcourt. Abe, who had recently announced his return to the All Progressives Congress, criticized the distribution process, advising Governor Fubara, “Let me criticize Governor Siminalayi Funara. He sent rice; that rice should go beyond the PDP. It should not be for PDP alone. Give PDP, give APC, give SDP, and give everybody.”

In a press briefing on Thursday, Senator Peter Nwoko advocated for the introduction of legislation allowing civilians to own and carry firearms, revealing that he is sponsoring a bill on self-defense and firearms ownership regulation. The senator stressed the urgency of such legislation, particularly in light of recent security challenges, including the devastating Plateau killings where over 100 civilians lost their lives.

Senator Nwoko asserted, "An amendment bill allowing civilian firearm ownership must be introduced in the Senate. My bill on self-defense and firearms ownership regulation, currently listed in the Senate awaiting its first reading, deals with this pressing issue."

Highlighting the inadequacy of existing security measures, he argued that empowering law-abiding citizens with the right to possess firearms could potentially offer a sense of security and a means to protect themselves and their families from immediate threats.

However, Senator Nwoko acknowledged the need for stringent regulations and comprehensive training to prevent misuse and abuse of firearms. He stated, "It is crucial to emphasize that the initiative to permit firearm ownership is accompanied by stringent regulations and comprehensive training. This approach ensures that firearms are in the hands of responsible individuals who understand the gravity of such ownership and are equipped to handle these weapons safely."

In addressing concerns about illegal arms smuggling, the Delta lawmaker proposed the introduction of licensed dealerships for firearms to create a regulated avenue for legal firearm acquisition. This, he believes, could help mitigate the risk of unauthorized weapons circulation.

Senator Nwoko's call for legislative action reflects a growing national discourse on the role of civilians in self-defense amid escalating security challenges. While acknowledging the need for caution and control, the senator advocates for a balanced approach that empowers responsible individuals while maintaining regulatory measures to ensure public safety. The bill, once introduced, is poised to stimulate further debate and scrutiny within the legislative arena.

Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has urged the people of the state not to be intimidated by the ongoing political turbulence. He asserted that his adversaries would not achieve their goals against him.

The political landscape in Rivers State has been tumultuous due to the intense conflict between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. This strife has led to a significant division within the legislative parties, as reported by Premium Times.

In an attempt to quell the longstanding feud between the erstwhile allies, President Bola Tinubu convened a meeting and brokered a peace agreement last month.

Despite these efforts, Governor Fubara, in a brief video message posted on X (formerly Twitter), encouraged the people of the state to maintain a positive outlook amid the ongoing crisis, assuring them that a resolution would be reached.

In the video, Governor Fubara pulled out a red pen from his breast pocket and addressed the audience, declaring, "This red pen is the will. I still have it."

"The pen failed," the governor acknowledged, adding, "As long as we hold onto the Red Ball Pen, we are the winners." He emphasized that Rivers State would continue to progress as long as they held the covenant with the Red Bureau.

According to a statement by Boniface Onyedi on Facebook, Fubara attended a New Year Parish Diaconate meeting in the city of Sao Paulo in the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State. This meeting place holds significance as the birthplace of Governor Fubara.

In a Christmas broadcast to the state's residents, Governor Fubara reiterated his commitment to implementing the Abuja peace accord despite facing criticism, emphasizing that the accord was not a "dead end."

Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, has urged the people of the state not to be intimidated by the ongoing political turbulence. He asserted that his adversaries would not achieve their goals against him.

The political landscape in Rivers State has been tumultuous due to the intense conflict between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. This strife has led to a significant division within the legislative parties, as reported by Premium Times.

In an attempt to quell the longstanding feud between the erstwhile allies, President Bola Tinubu convened a meeting and brokered a peace agreement last month.

Despite these efforts, Governor Fubara, in a brief video message posted on X (formerly Twitter), encouraged the people of the state to maintain a positive outlook amid the ongoing crisis, assuring them that a resolution would be reached.

In the video, Governor Fubara pulled out a red pen from his breast pocket and addressed the audience, declaring, "This red pen is the will. I still have it."

"The pen failed," the governor acknowledged, adding, "As long as we hold onto the Red Ball Pen, we are the winners." He emphasized that Rivers State would continue to progress as long as they held the covenant with the Red Bureau.

According to a statement by Boniface Onyedi on Facebook, Fubara attended a New Year Parish Diaconate meeting in the city of Sao Paulo in the Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State. This meeting place holds significance as the birthplace of Governor Fubara.

In a Christmas broadcast to the state's residents, Governor Fubara reiterated his commitment to implementing the Abuja peace accord despite facing criticism, emphasizing that the accord was not a "dead end."

On Tuesday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State unveiled plans to establish a University of Medical Science in collaboration with the Federal Government, with operations set to commence before the year's end. The announcement was made during the inauguration of an 80-bed hospital in Surulere, donated by Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The establishment of the first-ever University of Medical Science in the country is aimed at tackling the issue of mass brain drain in the healthcare sector, often referred to as the "Japa" syndrome.

Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the significance of the newly upgraded hospital, formerly known as Iyun Primary Health Centre and renamed Femi Gbajabiamila General Hospital, in alignment with his THEMES plus agenda. The hospital, located at Iyun Street, off Funsho William Avenue, was officially handed over to the state government during the ceremony.

Expressing optimism about the impact of the secondary health facility and general hospital, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the initiatives would contribute to reducing maternal mortality rates.

During the event, the governor recapped the previous commissionings, including an international conference center for Lagos State University (LASU) under the education pillar, the transformation of Babs Animashaun Road into a dual-carriage road with bridges, and the inauguration of a Youth Development Center with various amenities, aligning with youth engagement and gender equality.

Governor Sanwo-Olu affirmed the commitment of his administration to meaningful development, stating, "This is also an opportunity for me to announce another bold initiative of the Lagos State Government to establish a University of Medical Science before the end of this year."

Explaining the rationale behind the medical university, the governor emphasized its role in addressing brain drain and the challenges associated with the "Japa" syndrome, outlining the strategic approach to confront healthcare sector issues.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has revealed ongoing discussions focused on securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu from detention. This information was conveyed through a statement from Kalu's Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, in Abuja.

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been in detention for an extended period due to the recent Supreme Court decision mandating a retrial. The situation has led to widespread agitation and Sit-at-Home protests in the southeast region.

In an interview on FLO FM's "South East Political Roundtable," Kalu emphasized the need to end the Sit-at-Home observances, citing their adverse effects on attracting investors to the southeast. He also highlighted the launch of the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) in Abia State's Bende Local Government Area, advocating for non-violent approaches to address security challenges and regional grievances.

Kalu called for support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, particularly in southeast development initiatives, affirming the President's commitment to the region's progress. He revealed ongoing efforts behind the scenes to secure Kanu's release, emphasizing a strategic and non-violent approach.

"We can't rely solely on social media for our plans. We're actively pursuing his release as part of our agenda. We're working behind the scenes with a detailed strategy. Violence won't coerce the government; wisdom lies in peace," Kalu stated, urging a peaceful approach to address the situation.

He emphasized the importance of refraining from disrupting the region's economic activities and called for unity, inviting individuals supportive of Sit-at-Home protests to reconsider their stance. Kalu underscored the significance of collaboration and highlighted the government's commitment to the southeast's development, citing appointments and initiatives aimed at fostering growth in the region.

Kalu's plea centered on unity, emphasizing alternative methods to achieve the release of Nnamdi Kanu and addressing regional concerns without causing discord or disrupting the region's progress.

Atiku Abubakar's camp criticizes the suspension of degree accreditation from Benin Republic and Togo, deeming it deceptive and selective. Atiku's spokesperson, Abdul Rasheeth, asserts that the move ignores a broader issue and accuses the government of hypocrisy.

Rasheeth contends that the focus on universities in Benin and Togo is misleading since certificate racketeering extends beyond these countries. He describes the suspension as a deceptive tactic, emphasizing that the federal government has employed such measures before.

To illustrate the alleged hypocrisy, Rasheeth points to Chicago State University (CSU) and its affiliates, accusing them of engaging in nefarious means and unconscionable methods of issuing degrees. This criticism reflects Atiku's ongoing legal battle against President Bola Tinubu, who emerged victorious in the 2023 election.

Atiku had challenged Tinubu's eligibility based on alleged discrepancies in his educational credentials, specifically questioning documents from CSU. In 2023, Atiku's legal team claimed that the documents showed Tinubu attending Government College Lagos in 1970, two years before the school's official establishment. According to them, this rendered Tinubu ineligible to contest the presidency.

Despite Atiku's efforts, the Supreme Court refused to admit the alleged evidence, upholding the decision of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and affirming Tinubu's election. Rasheeth's criticism of the government's recent suspension reflects the lingering discontent within Atiku's camp regarding the election outcome and the handling of educational credentials in the political sphere.

Chelsea is currently exploring the possibility of securing the services of Jean-Clair Todibo during the ongoing transfer window, showcasing manager Mauricio Pochettino's commitment to fortifying the team's central defense. Despite having six seasoned center-backs, Chelsea has faced defensive challenges due to injuries and uncertainties within the squad.

Injuries have sidelined key players like Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana, with rumors circulating about Chalobah's potential departure from the club. The contractual status of Thiago Silva adds another layer of uncertainty, prompting Pochettino to heavily rely on Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, and Levi Colwill in the initial phase of the season.

Amidst these defensive uncertainties, Chelsea's scouting team has been closely monitoring Jean-Clair Todibo, with the French defender emerging as a viable option to strengthen the team's central defensive options. Todibo has reportedly left a positive impression on the club, leading them to seriously consider making a move for him in the current transfer window. Tottenham is also reportedly interested in Todibo, but they are concurrently exploring alternative options like Radu Dragusin from Genoa.

Another potential target for Chelsea is former player Marc Guehi, although acquiring his services might come at a higher cost compared to Todibo. While Chelsea is not anticipated to engage in an extravagant transfer window, the club is focused on addressing specific positions and reinforcing the squad.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino has indicated that discussions with owners and sporting directors will be crucial in formulating a comprehensive plan for the transfer window. Pochettino emphasized the importance of working with the existing squad, concentrating on player recovery and skill enhancement.

In essence, Chelsea's pursuit of Jean-Clair Todibo is prompted by the necessity to fortify the central defense, especially in light of injury concerns and contractual uncertainties. Todibo's noteworthy performances have positioned him as a serious consideration for Chelsea in the ongoing transfer window, aligning with the club's strategic approach to address specific positions and enhance overall squad depth.

In his New Year Message, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi declared that the Labour Party (LP) would steadfastly remain in opposition, holding the All Progressives Congress (APC) accountable to safeguard the interests of Nigerians. Expressing greetings to all Nigerians, Obi conveyed warm wishes and prayed for divine blessings and fulfillment of heart desires in the coming year and beyond.

Reflecting on the past year's events, Obi acknowledged the unfulfilled aspirations of citizens and expressed a commitment to seek a new Nigeria despite challenges. He emphasized the need for peace and security, condemning the alarming levels of violence leading to numerous deaths. Demanding justice for the victims, he called on the Federal Government to take decisive action to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.

Addressing economic concerns, Obi highlighted the need for a turnaround, pointing out rising unemployment, inflation, poverty, and inequality. He stressed the importance of good governance, inclusive development, and accountable leadership in a functional democracy, asserting that these elements continue to elude the nation.

Obi identified the undermining and weakening of national institutions as a fundamental threat to democracy, urging an end to the capture of state affairs and resources by a few individuals. He emphasized the importance of respecting the separation of powers and the role of the National Assembly in diligent performance of its functions, particularly in scrutinizing the 2024 budget.

Expressing concern about the drift towards a one-party state and undue federal intervention in state affairs, Obi affirmed the Labour Party's commitment to remaining firmly in opposition. He thanked supporters and called for ongoing constructive engagement to realize the quest for a New Nigeria.

Obi concluded by urging all those striving for a New Nigeria to remain engaged, committed, and resilient in the pursuit of positive change. He emphasized that Nigeria's future was too important to be left to transactional politics, reaffirming his passionate commitment to the crusade for a better Nigeria.

President Tinubu recently addressed the nation, emphasizing his administration's accomplishments in the past seven months and outlining comprehensive plans for the upcoming year. He commended Nigeria's 24 years of continuous democracy and reflected on his journey to the presidency.

Tinubu highlighted his efforts to avert a fiscal disaster, acknowledging tough decisions like removing fuel subsidies and implementing reforms in the foreign exchange system. Despite recognizing the discomfort caused, he expressed confidence in Nigerians' resilience.

Looking forward, Tinubu unveiled plans to expedite service delivery across various sectors in 2024. The address included five promises made by the President for the nation's progress.

1. Reliable supply of electricity
Tinubu on electricity supply: “Just this past December during COP28 in Dubai, the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, and I agreed and committed to a new deal to speed up the delivery of the Siemens Energy power project that will ultimately deliver reliable supply of electricity to our homes and businesses under the Presidential Power Initiative which began in 2018.

“Other power installation projects to strengthen the reliability of our transmission lines and optimise the integrity of our National grid are ongoing across the country.

“My administration recognises that no meaningful economic transformation can happen without steady electricity supply.”

2. Restart local refining of petroleum
Speaking on local refineries, he said, “In 2024, we are moving a step further in our quest to restart local refining of petroleum products with Port Harcourt Refinery, and the Dangote Refinery which shall fully come on stream.”

3. Boost food supply
In this New Year, Tinubu pledged to accelerate efforts to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmlands nationwide to grow maize, rice, wheat, millet, and other staple crops in order to guarantee a steady supply, security, and affordability of food.

His words, “To ensure constant food supply, security and affordability, we will step up our plan to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmlands across the country to grow maize, rice, wheat, millet and other staple crops. We launched the dry season farming with 120,000 hectares of land in Jigawa State last November under our National Wheat Development Programme.”

4. Boost local, and foreign investments
With regard to making Nigeria a preferred location for both domestic and foreign investments this New Year, Tinubu pledges to clear any obstacles in the way.

“In this new year, we will race against time to ensure all the fiscal and tax policies reforms we need to put in place are codified and simplified to ensure the business environment does not destroy value. On every foreign trip I have embarked on, my message to investors and other business people has been the same. Nigeria is ready and open for business.

“I will fight every obstacle that impedes business competitiveness in Nigeria and I will not hesitate to remove any clog hindering our path to making Nigeria a destination of choice for local and foreign investments.”

5. Actualisation of 8 priority areas in 2024 budget: Security, job creation, poverty reduction, others.
“In my 2024 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, I listed my administration’s 8 priority areas to include national defence and internal security, job creation, macro-economic stability, investment environment optimization, human capital development, poverty reduction and social security.
“Because we take our development agenda very seriously, our 2024 budget reflects the premium we placed on achieving our governance objectives.”