₦airaland Forum

2023 poll: Presidential, NASS elections marred with irregularities - TMG

The Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, says it observed high level of irregularities during Saturday's Presidential and National Assembly elections across the country.

TMG in a statement signed by its Chairman, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said the election was flawed by massive vote buying, widespread violence and voter intimidation as well as disregard to the electoral act.

The group which stated that they had observers in every part of the country, said they are not surprised with the outcome of the election, as similar incidents was observed during the primaries of some political paries.

He said “TMG notes that the general conduct of the election across the country was peaceful in most parts, as voting occurred without recourse to violence. Notably, this was also largely occasioned by the deployment of security personnel across the country. Despite these gains, TMG in some cases observed incidences of voter intimidation and suppression, particularly in Lagos and Rivers States. In Lagos for instance, voters were threatened by thugs to vote for a certain party and candidate or stay away from voting completely. Voter intimidation and suppression were also evident in the violent conduct and disruption of polls as recorded in these two states where political thugs carted away, burnt, and destroyed election materials.

The group also faulted the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and its Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, stating that the electoral body failed to effectively discharge its responsibly, and also flouted the electoral act, adding that some polling units experienced delayed commencement of voting, incomplete voting materials, malfunctional BVAS devices and absence of INEC staff.

“TMG monitored the IREV portal late into the night of election day before legislative results started to trickle in. This contravenes Section 50 of the Electoral Act 2022, which aims to minimize human interference and manipulation of polling unit results.

“TMG also observed the open and scandalous disregard for the secrecy of the ballot as demonstrated by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Attorney General of the Federation who are expected to be seen to display the highest political decorum. This singular act emboldened other party faithful including the Senate Majority Leader, Orji Uzor Kalu to openly display his thumb-printed ballot paper in contravention to the Electoral Act, 2022.

“At the National Results Collation Centre, the INEC Chairman insisted on proceeding with result collation against the request by party agents to confirm electronically transmitted results. The brazen disregard for the Electoral Act provision for the transmission of results electronically undermined the process. . Hence, the credibility question on the outcome of the presidential election is not a product of failure of technology to usher in the needed transparency, but a product of non application of the technology.”

TMG however urged INEC to review all cases of electoral malpractice presented before it.

The group also added that in order to ensure a free and fair election in the country, there must be strict adherence to the electoral act, adding that electoral offenders of any kind must be arrested and brought to book.

Group Vows To Change Political Narratives In Abuja


A political group under the aegis of Nigerians Unite for Tinubu/Shettima Mandate is confident that the 2023 general elections will be a turning point for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the nation's capital.


The group stated this shortly after some of its key members monitored the outcome of some polling units across the Territory.


A statement signed by the publicity Secretary of the group, Mr. Seyi Adesina, and made available to journalists stated that the ruling party will win the FCT for the first time.


According to Adesina, "we are very happy with the outcome of the elections in the FCT, and for the reports so far, the ruling All Progressives Congress will change the narratives.


"Before now, we thought history will repeat itself as it has been the tradition to defeat the ruling party in the Territory. However, the turnout of our members and their determination indicate that we are coasting to victory.


Adesina, urged all supporters of Bola Ahmed Tinubu/Shettima to be vigilant and remain calm till the finality of the results across the 62 political wards in the Territory.


The Nigerians Unite for Tinubu/Shettima Mandate also commended their supporters and indeed residents of the FCT for coming out enmasse to carry out their civic duties.

The Nigerian Ambassador to Guinea Bissau, John James Usanga, has expressed confidence in the ability of President Muhammadu Buhari and the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) to deliver a credible election.

According to him, the 2023 general election will be the best since the return to democracy in 1999.

Usanga who stated in an exclusive chat with our reporter, urged to be patient and cooperate with The President, INEC, the Armed forces, Police and other stakeholders to deliver a credible poll.

“I am very optimistic that we are going to have best election ever conducted since the return to democracy. The good thing is that Mr. President has put his feet down to ensure that the election that is coming is credible and fair and everyone can have the opportunity to elect the people of their choice without undue influence.

“All we need is to educate Nigerians that we need to be patient and cooperate with The President, INEC, the Armed forces, Police and everybody involved in the conduct of our election is ready.

“Even the international community is already on ground waiting for that day and all we need to do is to go out peacefully and elect a leader of our choice and we will begin to see the emergence of something that we need.

“One thing Nigerians are known for is that elections are almost like a warfare but after the election everything becomes calm. The good thing is that somehow we always solve our problems. Indeed I am optimistic. We are going to have a very good election. it’s going to be very exciting because the competition is huge.”

TMG Calls for Peaceful, Free, and Fair Elections

NEWS DIGEST - Nigerians will go to the polls on February 25 and March 11 to elect the president and national legislators, and governors and state legislators, respectively. It’s the 7th back-to-back elections, in a region where the risk of coup detat is on the rise.

The Transition Monitoring Group commends Nigerians, especially the young people that have shown great enthusiasm since preparations commenced for the 2023 election. We urge Nigerians of all religious, ethnic and regional divides to go out on the scheduled dates to cast their votes to elect leaders across the various levels.

The transition monitoring group is working together with various civil society networks across the country to mobilize voters, educate the public, and monitor voting throughout the country. We shall be monitoring the following key issues and will release statements and reports on the conduct and quality of the elections based on field reports from our observers. We will also reach out to critical institutions and agencies on the frontline of planning and administering the 2023 elections.

INEC neutrality: we call on INEC to continue to demonstrate neutrality and respect for its announced processes and guidelines. This is important to maintain public confidence in the process. We further urge the INEC Chairman to ensure the highest level of integrity and professionalism throughout the commission, including national commissioners, state electoral commissioners, electoral officers and all returning officers.

Adequate and timely deployment of sensitive and non-sensitive materials: we urge INEC to follow its timeline and procedures to achieve the timely release and distribution of all essential and non-essential materials. Further, we urge INEC to remain resolute in its commitment to free and fair elections. Recently, the Commission commenced daily briefing on the elections. We urge the Commission to keep to its promise and continue to speak to Nigerians to maintain their confidence and support.

Avoidance of intimidation and voter suppression: we call all political actors, especially political parties and their supporters to shun every temptation to intimidate and suppress opposition or any other group of people from exercising their rights. One of the hallmarks of a thriving democracy is the opportunity for people to hold and support different candidates of their choice. It is critical therefore that all eligible Nigerian voter can exercise their civic duties free of intimidation and threats of any nature. We urge all security agencies to be vigilant and take action to guarantee the safety of all voters. In particular, we think security agencies must pay particular attention to hard-to-reach communities where the risk of intimidation and voter suppression is higher.

Special Consideration for women, elderly and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs):
TMG calls on the Commission to prevail on polling officials to give special consideration to women, the elderly and Persons with Disabilities. TMG is also observing and documenting the overall inclusivity of the election through the conduct of the Commission to the marginalized groups and expects the polling officials to aid and provide support to the elderly, pregnant women especially and PwDs to exercise their franchise without difficulty.

Extra protection for security flashpoints: various expert reports and analyses have identified more than twenty states described as high risk of violence. The states include all six states in the southwest, the BAY states in the northeast, parts of the southeast and south-south and the northwest region. We urge INEC and all the partnering security agencies to develop security plans for the high-risk areas and work with local actors to mitigate the threats to voters and every person on election duties. TMG will also be observing and reporting from across the 774 local government areas of the country on the conduct of security personnel during the election. We hereby urge the security personnel to be neutral in their conduct at the polling units while prioritizing the security of voters and election materials.

 Desist from vote trading:
TMG calls on the political class and their supporters to desist from all forms of vote trading which reached condemnable heights during the previous state-level elections. Citizens are also urged to shun the act which is a crime punishable under the country’s laws. TMG urges the deployment of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to monitor polling units and arrest and prosecute political agents and citizens who engage in vote trading during the election.

Adhere to the National Peace Accord Agreements:
TMG applauds all the political parties and their presidential candidates that signed the national peace accord. With the recent signing, every candidate and their parties have now committed to an ethical code of conduct and to eschew all forms of violence. Therefore, we urge all candidates and their political parties to promote the national peace accord and encourage their supporters to respect the provisions of the peace accord. The uncontrolled hate and inflammatory statements attributed to candidates and their supporters is a source of worry. And we hope that political parties and their supporters will desist from all forms of actions capable of imperilling the progress of this nation and preserve our young democracy before, during and after the elections.

Display Great Sportsmanship in Defeat and Victory:  Like every other competition, elections are to be won and lost. Losing today does not mean one cannot win tomorrow. Hence, TMG is calling on politicians to be great sportsmen in the election. We expect those who do not win to accept defeat and where they are aggrieved to consider using all legal means to seek redress.

In conclusion
TMG appreciates the international and national observers who are observing the elections across the country as the organization assures of its openness to collaborate with stakeholders across the country on efficient observation of the election.

TMG invites interested partners to visit its observation data centre at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

This deployment is made possible through the Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project implemented by Palladium with the generous support of the American people through the United State Agency for International Development (USAID). TMG will like to make it clear that the views expressed herein do not represent those of USAID or the United States Government.

TMG, therefore, looks forward to a free, fair and credible presidential election on Saturday, 25th February 2023.

Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani)
Chairman, TMG

Legal Scholar and former Petroleum Resources Minister (State), Dr Ibe Kachikwu has joined the Baze University Faculty as a visiting Professor of Law.

The University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tahir Mamman, OON, SAN, said the onboarding of Dr. Ibe kachikwu is in line with the university’s philosophy to continually expand its range of faculty, with versatile scholars and technocrats with rich theoretical and industry experiences.

He praised Dr. Kachikwu for his erudition and love of scholarship, stressing that the experiences he brings to the university would no doubt complement those already the on ground, and would further enhance students’ opportunity to benefit from a diverse passel of experts.

Born on 18 December 1956, Dr. Kachikwu is a Nigerian politician and lawyer who served as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

He is a graduate of law from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Nigerian Law School. He obtained a masters and doctorate degree in law from Harvard University, with distinctions.

In 1989, Kachikwu went into romance journalism, a genre that explores romantic tales and relationship issues across the country. This was done through the unveil of Hints magazine, a weekly publication by his media enterprise, True Tales Publications Limited.

Kachikwu readily connected to a wide audience via his weekly column, ‘Fatherhood with Ibe,’ where he shared with his readers his experiences as a father. In 2013, Kachikwu's True Tales Publications Limited launched ‘Hello Nigeria,’ a lifestyle magazine. The maiden edition of the magazine featured icons in music, film, fashion, culture and style, drawn from Nigeria and Ghana.

He was appointed as chief executive of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation in August 2015 under the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari. On 11 November 2015, Kachikwu was named the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources by the president. He was named as the chairman of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, as provided for under Section 1(2) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Act of 1997, as amended on 4 July 2016.

He has been president of the OPEC conference with a tenure that expired in January 2016. He chaired the 168th Meeting of the OPEC Conference held in Vienna, Austria, on 4 December 2015, as its President. He was replaced by Mohammed Saleh Al Sada, the Minister of Energy and Industry of Qatar.

Pro-Tinubu group procure 1,200 JAMB forms for Kogi students

In a bid to promote education and support less-privileged students in Kogi State, the Nigerians Unite for Tinubu/Shettima, NUFTS, has procured about 1,200 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, forms for students in the three senatorial districts of the state.

The forms which were distributed through the “RTA JAMB Support” initiative of the group, aimed at alleviating the financial burden faced by students who aspire to further their education but lack the necessary resources to do so.

In a statement on Wednesday, the RTA Coordinator for Yagba West Local Government Area, who is also a member of NUFTS, expressed appreciation to Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, Honorable Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory, FCT, for supporting the initiative.

In his remarks, the coordinator noted that the gesture was timely, considering the economic challenges faced by many families in the state.

He added that the JAMB forms would go a long way in assisting less-privileged students to gain admission into higher institutions.

Meanwhile, the NUFTS has called on well-meaning individuals and organizations to support the initiative and contribute to the development of education in Kogi state and Nigeria as a whole.

The procurement and distribution of JAMB forms by NUFTS are seen as a laudable initiative that will help to promote education and reduce the financial burden faced by less privileged students in Kogi state.

It is hoped that more individuals and organizations will emulate this gesture and contribute to the development of education in the state and the country at large.

The forms were distributed as follows: 400 forms for students in Kogi West senatorial district, 400 for students in Kogi East and 400 forms for students in Kogi Central senatorial district.

https://dailynigerian.com/pro-tinubu-group-procure/

Kwara Central: Ilorin South Agog As Saliu Mustapha, Aluko, Aladi Tour Wards

Ahead of the upcoming 2023 general elections, the APC Senatorial Candidate for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha on Sunday led other party flag-bearers comprising Hon Yinka Aluko of Ilorin East/ Ilorin South Federal Constituency and Hajia Maryam Aladi of Ilorin South State Constituency to canvass for votes and engage stakeholders.

The tour first berthed in Akanbi III where they addressed a large number of APC members, supporters and residents at Markaz Ridwanulahi in Opolo. While in Opolo, Mallam Saliu Mustapha assured residents of his readiness to raise the bar in terms of representation, when elected as a Senator come February 25, 2023.

The Turaki of Ilorin said he has been impacting different communities positively by drilling boreholes, grading roads, fixing electricity supply challenge and empowering people without holding Public Office, adding that electing him to represent Kwara Central in the Senate would give opportunity him to do more for the people.

The campaign train thereafter moved to Akanbi V where a stalwart of All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon Mashood Mustapha sensitisedd residents on the need to vote all party candidates, noting the zoning of Senatorial and House of Representatives seats to Ilorin East and Ilorin South respectively was to promote inclusion in governance.

Hon Mashood Mustapha, a former House of Representatives member therefore charged people of Ilorin South local government to mobilize support for APC candidates during the general elections including the Governorship elections slated for March 11.

The campaign took another dimension in Balogun Fulani ward I-III as Saliu Mustapha displayed street credibility by trekking to different venues with other candidates and supporters where receiving cheers from residents.

Like they did in other wards, the Joint APC Campaign team paid homage to Baba'gba, Daudu Balogun Fulani and Balogun Fulani to seek royal blessing and share their agenda for the people.

At Balogun Fulani Ward I, Kwara State House of Assembly candidate for Ilorin South, Hajia Maryam Aladi promised to be a good ambassador of her people and work with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to deliver on APC manifesto, when given the mandate on March 11.

Excited and energetic supporters accompanied Saliu Mustapha and other candidates to Alangua Tanke's compound before moving to Ode Alangua where Hon Yinka Aluko addressed the supporters.

In his address, the APC House of Representatives Candidate for Ilorin East/Ilorin South Federal Constituency promised to complement the State Government efforts in addressing challenges facing different communities, when elected.

According to Aluko, You have been feeling our impact before getting to office. We will not disappoint you, when elected as your representative in Abuja.

The joint campaign train of APC Candidates in Kwara Central would visit remaining five wards in Ilorin South local government on Monday February 13, 2023.

Minister Aliyu mobilises Abuja voters for Tinubu-Shettima at APC rally

WITH less than two weeks to the February 25 presidential election, the Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, Sunday, intensified support and galvanized voters across the six Area Councils of the FCT, for the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential and vice presidential candidates during the mega APC presidential rally in Abuja.

This was made known in a statement signed by the Special Assistant, SA, Media to the FCT Minister of State, Austine Elemue.

Aliyu said there is no gainsaying of the fact that Tinubu remains the peoples’ choice and for FCT electorates, the answer is positive for a landslide victory of Tinubu and the party as far as the huge presence of the party in the Territory is concerned.

Also in her remarks, she spoke about the qualities and achievements of Tinubu and being a progressive to the core and man of the masses, therefore, appealed to the electorates to ensure their votes is for Tinubu, hence should come out en mass to vote the presidential candidate of the APC from top to bottom.

The rally had in attendance of top APC party chieftains including former governors, ministers, Senators, Members of the National Assembly, youths and women.

She said: “Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a visionary leader who has a proven track record of delivering results for the people. He has transformed Lagos State into a thriving hub of economic activities and has always put the needs of the people first.

The Minister also assured of intensifying efforts to reach every nook and craine of the communities and wards to ensure the voters understand who Tinubu is and what he has to change the narrative if elected the president of Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Sen Bola Ahmed Tinubu, appreciated the people of the FCT and commended them for their support.

He also called on them not to be deceived by other presidential candidates but to come tighter with to build a virile nation based on the huge potentials and blessings God has deposited in the country.

He also said his goal is to make a Nigeria where nobody is made somebody with his blueprint that is basically masses-driven, and he promised to change the situation of the FCT down to the grassroots of elected president as he will hit the ground running.

However, he stressed why the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, should be supported by Nigerians including security agencies to conduct peaceful and transparent elections that would be credible and acceptable.

He further stated that Nigerians should ensure their votes count and that they are to abide by democratic tenets and not violence, because he is against it.

NUFTS Outreach Brings Health Services to Kabba Residents

<strong>NEWS DIGEST -</strong> The Nigerian United for Tinubu/Shettima (NUFTS) continued its Primary Health Medical Outreach program, providing essential health services to residents in Kabba. The event was held in partnership with local health organizations and attracted a large turnout of residents from the community.

The outreach program provided free medical check-ups, treatments and diagnostic services, with a focus on promoting healthy living and preventing the spread of diseases. In addition, the program also aimed to educate residents about the importance of regular medical check-ups and healthy lifestyles.

The NUFTS team worked closely with local health organizations to ensure that the program was a success and that all participants received the necessary care and support. The program was well-received by residents, who praised the organization for its commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community.

"I am very grateful to NUFTS for bringing this medical outreach to our community. The services provided were of great benefit to us, and I hope that this will become a regular event in Kabba," said a resident.

NUFTS is committed to advocating for the candidacy of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his determination to improve the quality of life for all Nigerians, and this Primary Health Medical Outreach is one of the many initiatives aimed at achieving this goal.

Mammoth crowd greets Saliu Mustapha in Saraki’s ward

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Candidate for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha on Thursday received a standing ovation in Ajikobi Ward, the homestead of former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki.

Saliu Mustapha was received by excited supporters and residents who were chanting Sai Saliu! Sai Turaki!! Sai Saliu! Sai Turaki!! to show their support and acceptability of the APC candidate in the presumed stronghold of PDP in Ilorin West local government area.

They line up on the street in admiration of Mustapha who acknowledged people's support with disarming smiles while waving his hands to Ajikobi residents.

Mr Mustapha who is the Turaki of Ilorin also visited Khalifatul Adabiyyah, Sheikh Sofiyullah Kamaldeen Al-Adaby, Ode Kamaldeen in his Agbaji house.

During the visitation, Sheikh Al-Adaby while praying for the Kwara Central APC Senatorial Candidate and other Party flagbearers, urged electorates to be peaceful before, during and after the elections.

Saliu Mustapha alongside APC Candidate for Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency, Hon Muktar Shagaya, House of Assembly flagbearers for Ilorin Central and Alanamu State Constituencies, Barr Oba Magaji and Olatundun Alanamu respectively paid homage to Balogun Ajikobi, Alhaji Isiaka Ajikobi in his Palace.

How Buhari helped tackle infrastructural deficits in Kwara, others- Mustapha

The Senatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has said that the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari had helped Kwara State and others in the country in great proportion to address the infrastructural deficits bedeviling them.

Speaking ahead of the President’s visit to the State for a campaign rally of the APC Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, Mustapha said the Buhari administration has been consistent in mitigating the problems inherited from the previous administrations.

"We, here, in Kwara State can testify to the dualization of the strategic Ilorin – Jebba-Mokwa road, which was only at 15.9% completion by the time the administration assumed office but today the road that links the South West to the North West is 100% completed and it is now easy for trucks moving agricultural produce to ply that route", he said.

According to him, the Buhari administration accorded a priority attention to boosting infrastructural development with a view to fast-tracking the country's socio-economic growth.

Mustapha, who is the Turaki of Ilorin, also scored the Buhari government high in implementing various agricultural and National Social Investment Programmes (N-SIPs) amongst others.

"Indeed, so much has been said about the infrastructure being put in place including the ongoing rail projects, but some of us believe that his efforts at diversifying the economy will be his major legacy.

"The ongoing agriculture revolution through massive infusion of funds through Central Bank's Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP) has now seen the country overtake Egypt as Africa’s largest producers of rice.

"Under the programme launched by President Buhari in November 2015, more than N1 trillion has been disbursed to over 4.8million smallholder farmers of 21 different commodities across the country including Kwara State to cultivate over 4m hectares of farmland.

"Our state is similarly benefitting from the Federal government's Special Agro-industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) in
partnership with the African Development Bank through which agro processing centres are to be established with basic infrastructure such as water, electricity and roads as well as facilities for skills training in 7 states.

"All these and a lot more are some of the achievements of the APC-led Buhari administration and we can also see the evidently good work of our outstanding Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq", APC Kwara Central Senatorial candidate added.

Mustapha assured the party’s presidential candidate, Asiwaju Tinubu of necessary support to defeat other contenders in Kwara next month.

"With the leadership of Governor AbdulRazaq, we will continue to take Asiwaju’s campaign to the nooks and crannies of the state and we are convinced that our great party will record a landslide victory in the state.

"We are solidly behind Tinubu’s Presidency, and like we did in 2019, we will emerge victorious at the poll.

"The APC in Kwara has, in the last four years, delivered on most of its promises, and we will do much better in the coming years", he said.

The Turaki of Ilorin also called on Kwarans to give the President a warm welcome on his first visit to the state since 2019.

CISLAC, Transparency International warns INEC against postponing elections

By Reginald Tobin

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), and Transparency International (TI), has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, not to postpone the 2023 general elections in the country.

The Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of Transparency International, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), in a statement on Wednesday, explained that the election which is in 44 days will loose credibility if postponed, adding that it will also amount to waste of public funds.

He also stated that the reason why he and other stakeholders pushed for the electoral act was for INEC to release its calendar early and plan properly.

He said, “We hold the view that no matter how well intended statements like these are, they come out as a ploy to frustrate or derail the efforts that have been put in place to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections. We see statements like this as counterproductive as they encourage the waste of public funds and can promote the wish of undemocratic agents that do not want Nigerian citizens to exercise their democratic rights.

“We would like to stress that different plans have been made by state and other non-state actors in line with the calendar released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and moving the date will have financial implications.”

Speaking on the provision of security during the election, Rafsanjani said the electoral body had enough time to prepare and work with security agencies to ensure a violent free poll, adding that postponing the election on grounds of insecurity will only show the unpreparedness and incompetence of INEC.

He said security personnel and election officials should be fully equipped to deal with challenges that may arise the cause of the election.

He further called for synergy between INEC, security agencies, political parties, political leaders, community leaders, religious leaders, while charging citizens to corporate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.

He said, “We hereby state that this should not be allowed to happen. Security personnel and election officials need to be fully equipped to always deal with challenges. This should be part of the function of the National Centre for the Coordination of Early Warning and Response Mechanism, which was signed on 10th June 2022 by the President, to address issues related to threats to human security.

“The Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICESS) needs to ensure they coordinate better to secure the lives of officials and citizens before, during and after the elections. There must be synergy between the INEC, security agencies, political parties, political leaders, community leaders, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure that free, transparent, peaceful, and democratic elections hold as scheduled by INEC.

“The Country’s electoral commission had three years in which to prepare for the poll and work with stakeholders from the security outfit to address foreseeable and preventable threats to human security that are likely to take place during the election exercise. The postponement will therefore be displayed as a display of utter incompetence and inefficiency.”

He added, “There were security challenges in 2015 and 2019 yet, elections still took place. Those who seek to hold free and fair elections devoid of violence outnumber those who seek to undermine transparent free and fair elections in Nigeria, including those areas where there have been politically motivated attacks on INEC facilities and killings of innocent citizens. Hence, most citizens who want elections cannot be held hostage by a few individuals who don’t mean well for the country. ”

2023: TMG raises concern over 6.7m uncollected PVCs

A foremost independent civil society election observation group, Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, has called on Nigerians to come out and collect their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs, ahead of the January 22 deadline.

TMG, in a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Auwal Musa-Rafsanjani, said the opportunity provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to exercise their civic responsibility should be grabbed with passion ahead of the much-awaited elections.

Reacting to a statement by INEC that there are 6.7 million uncollected PVCs across 17 states and the Federal Capital Territory, the group raised great concerns saying Nigerians must avoid repeat of voter apathy experienced in the previous elections.

Citing data from the 2019 presidential elections, TMG emphasised that the 6.7 million uncollected PVCs would have been sufficient to determine the outcome of an election in which winner Muhammadu Buhari received 15 million votes and his main opponent, Atiku Abubakar, received 11.2 million votes.

TMG revealed that the high rate of voter apathy witnessed in previous elections must not be allowed to repeat itself in the 2023 elections as the upcoming elections will be a determining factor in the future of Nigerians.

"As we gear towards the 2023 general elections, TMG is appealing to Nigerians to be ready to come out and vote and make a key decision that is instrumental to the formation of a better Nigeria.

“No one should wait until the rush hour; the time is now and we all are advised to collect our PVCs in time so that we can get that golden opportunity to vote candidates of our choice, electing leaders is our responsibility that no one can deny anyone but without PVC, that right will be denied; so let’s go out and get our PVCs.

"Voters must also be wary of desperate politicians who would want to induce them with monetary gifts in exchange for their voter cards, Nigerians must in the upcoming elections stand their feet and follow the electoral process from start to finish, rejecting any financial inducement or harassment,” the statement reads.

TMG also commended the electoral umpire, INEC, for extending the collection period of the PVCs as well as making a wise decision of moving the voting cards from state offices to local government areas and wards, making it easier for Nigerians to obtain the card.

The statement said: “TMG will be deploying a wide range of membership across the country to ensure an adequate and effective monitoring of the electoral process.

“TMG will adopt robust engagements with stakeholders while also initiating a system to monitor and publicize the campaign promises of the major political parties before and after the elections.

“We will also be seeking to promote an issue-based electoral campaign and to observe and report electoral conduct to reflect the yearnings of citizens in the elections,” the statement added.

Mr Rafsanjani also added that the group seeks to address issues such as electoral violence, thuggery, vote-buying, voters harassment as well as promoting electoral inclusivity for women and people with disability.

APC sinking in Kwara, says Olododo campaign council after court victory

The Campaign council of Social Democratic Party, SDP, candidate for Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency of Kwara State, Hon. Abdulganiyu Olododo has described the APC as a sinking party loosing grounds in the State.

The campaign council said this in a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Ibrahim Sheriff, on Friday, after the judgement of the Federal High Court, dismissing the suit filed by the APC against Olododo, a member of the House of Representatives from seeking reelection.

The APC had on 7th July filed a suit seeking Olododo's disqualification from seeking reelection under the SDP, but was later dismissed in a judgement on Friday, by Justice I.M Sanni of the Federal High Court for failure of the plaintiff to prove that Olododo's acceptance by INEC as SPD's candidate was in violation of the law.

Reacting to the judgement, Olododo's campaign council accused the APC of making attempts to thwart the will of the people, adding that the SDP candidate will also secure victory in the 2023 election.

Ololodo Campaign Council further enjoined the people of Ilorin East/South and Kwara State in general to get their permanent voters’ card and vote for all SDP candidates in the 2023 election.

“Although we are confident the APC embarked on a futile journey from onset, today’s victory is for the people and a reflection of what is to come in 2023, when the good people of Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency will reecho their resolve to sustain the quality representation Olododo has offered in the last three and half years of his sojourn at the green chamber”, the statement said.

2023: Mammoth crowd in Abuja as APC women, youths hold rally for Tinubu/Shettima Presidency

A large number of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters comprising women and youths have converged in Abuja to demonstrate their support for the candidacy of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima in the 2023 presidential election.

The APC supporters, who converged at the instance of the Minister of State for the FCT, Hajia Ramatu Tijanni-Aliyu, took to the streets in the early hours of Saturday, chanting solidarity songs.

The youths and women were seen carrying placards with various inscriptions such as: “Bola Tinubu, the Best Man for the Job”, “With Tinubu/Shettima We Stand”, and “Tinubu/Shettima Joy of the Masses”, among others.

Speaking during the rally, the state minister thanked the crowd for coming out to show solidarity with the APC presidential candidates.

She said: “My joy knows no bound as I see hardworking women and youth gathered here today to put up the mass march and rally for Tinubu.

“It shows that FCT women and youth are fully in support of the mandate of Asiwaju Tinubu and Kashim Shettima who will prioritise the wishes and aspirations of indigenes and residents of the Federal Capital.

“They will also be consolidating on the astonishing achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari who has always been committed to the revitalisation of Abuja local communities not just the city centres."

Also speaking during the rally, Christiana John, one of the participants, hailed the minister for standing by the protesters and providing logistics cover for the event.

While noting that Abuja is 100 percent APC, Mrs John disclosed that residents and indigenes of the federal capital would deliver thier votes for the APC from top to bottom.

On his part, the Coordinator of the Arewa Media for Asiwaju (AMSA), Yusuf Muawiyya Muye, thanked young Nigerians for coming out en masse to support the APC, saying the not-too-young-to-run bill, which President Muhammadu Buhari assented into law is yielding results.

Guinea Bissau is Rising, by Jibrin Baba-Ndace

Africa hosts 25% of the natural global biodiversity, and 30% of the world’s mineral resources, it has a strong resource potential. Guinea-Bissau is a country with a privilege geographical location and the highest proportion of natural wealth per capita in West Africa, including  land, fisheries, and forest.

Beyond West Africa Guinea Bissau enjoys trade agreements and preferential trade status with several large economies including the EU, China and the US. The country is also a signatory to the Cotonou agreement granting reciprocal duty free access to EU markets for African, Caribbean and pacific (ACP) country exports. Its economy is fueled by natural resources particularly agriculture and fisheries for both subsistence and income. Based on data collected for the elaboration of the country’s first national voluntary review, the agricultural sector employs more than 90% of the national workforce and contributes 62% of GDP. Cashew nuts and rice are the two major corps dominating the agricultural sub-sector.

Although the country is one of the world’s largest producers of cashew, only 10% of cashew nut production is proceeded locally due to low investment in proceeding and transformation activities, untapped West African frontier market with unlimited potential for innovative and sustainable growth, indicating opportunities for added value in Guinea-Bissau through vertical supply chain consolidation.

It is on this note that the Government of Guinea Bissau and the embassies of Cape Verde, Nigeria and South Africa together with the United Nations development programme (UNDP) jointly organized and hosted the inaugural edition of Bissau Rising impact investment and trade forum, with the theme “Bringing together people and businesses from Africa and beyond”, to draw on an emergent and vibrant business community for policy makers and influencers from Africa and beyond. The platform aims to establish a foundation for business development and sustainable growth, focusing on creating an enabling environment where all entrepreneurs, especially youth and women will flourish. 

The forum kicked off on the 30th of November Ceiba hotel conference centre in its capital city Bissau. The forum was convened by experts in different fields to speak on how to develop each sector of Guinea Bissau from experiences they have through working privately or individually in their countries. The forum created new opportunities through cooperation and exchange of ideas that foster innovation and generate new value to achieve positive impact in the economy, environmental and social dimensions of development.

The 3 days conference was created towards generating these sectors; finance, banking and insurance, Digital economy and infrastructure, blue economy and tourism , creative industry and intellectual products, Logistics and transportation (Land, Air and Sea), Eco-solutions: Energy, waste, agriculture, water and sanitation and the overview of policy and economic reforms in ECOWAS.

The ceremony was opened by A Government representative, Mr. Tjark Egenhooff –Res Rep UNDP, His Excellency Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Ambassador Mphakama Mbete Ambassador of South Africa, His Excellency Camilo Graca the ambassador of Cape Verde the brains behind the creation of Bissau Rising.

After which Bruno Jauad, GB invest, invest Guinea Bissau, Luis Teixeira, business and Env reform coordinator, Cape Verde spoke on the overview of policy and economic reforms in ECOWAS.

Bruno Jauad, GB invest, invest guinea Bissau, Luis Mussa sambi-DG economy , Carlos Lopes AIGB, Munira Jauda Ribeiro Vice President FME/CPLP,GNB and Mr. Mama samba Embalo President of the CCAIS enlightened the audience on what it takes to do business in Guinea Bissau and current reform programs.

The first session discussed Digital economy, the current situation in Guinea Bissau which was headed by Aimonia Cabral from Bandim online and Ivan Rueter , African Union Communication, south Africa. The session broadly discussed Digital economy and Infrastructure, The rapid growth in access and users of digital communication channel that has created a rapidly expanding market for digital products services and solution. The opportunities for providing digital solution which exceeds large established firms and includes market entry points for niche downstream service providers as well as innovative digital solutions to local challenges offered by small scale businesses and startups catering to emerging local demands. The speakers shared best experiences, practices and perspective for innovation, Rui Levy discussed business angles concept and importance for the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The day ended with dinner hosted by the Ambassador of Nigeria, South Africa and Cape Verde.

On the 2nd day of the conference, African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) spoke on new opportunities for Guinea Bissau, World Bank Res Rep Ms Anne Lucie Lefebvre and IMF Res Rep Mr. Patrick Gitton spoke economic trends and private sector engagement before the finance, banking and insurance session commenced. The session was broken into two; national financial inclusion strategy and banking and investment round table. These section was handled by expert in finance like Bertrand Moulin UNDP/ min of finance consultant, Antonio monteiron Dir. Of digital coordination BAO, Bertrand moulin, UNDP, Jacunia da silva and Mr. Ebuka Emebinah from the impact investment foundation of Nigeria. Guinea Bissau’s emergent private sector is accelerating the need for development of the financial sector.

They exclusively discussed how finance can be generated for private business owners and challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Guinea Bissau involving fund raising.

Following the finance and banking session was the Blue Economy and tourism where opportunities in Guinea Bissau by experts like  Carlota Baranano ICESM, Mussa Sambi, DG Min. of economy, Rui Alberto Pinto Pereira, ANAPI,GNB,Domingos Jose ca,CCAIS-GB, Ica Barry- Bertrand moulin-UNDP/Min of Finance Consultant. The Guinea Bissau’s waters are considered one of the wealthiest biodiversity areas of West Africa, with Bundant halieutic resources and mangroves offering enormous potential for blue economy. This session was also divided into two where presentation of strategy and discussion of how to take advantage of the blue economy and Tourism across its 88 islands, bijagos island.

A discussion panel was further set up to discuss African influencers and rising stars from Guinea Bissau, Creative industry and intellectual entrepreneurs. When it comes music, painting, Handicrafts, fashion etc Guinea Bissau is a strong potential and the panelist Ne Vaz a writer GNB,Hamilton Jair Fernandes-DG of cultural Heritage Cape Verde, Stunki Vundla South Africa,Alpha Cante, Designer GNB,Flora Gomes, Film Producer GNB,and Paul Obazele-Creative Industry, Nigeria spoke on how they can manage their creative industries and contribute to the commercial success and economic growth of Guinea Bissau and play a central role in the diversification of economic opportunities that is essential to achieve structural transformation. A cultural night followed at the end of the day showcasing young beautiful talent like Dimma a promising artist and a fashion design with talented good looking models all from Guinea Bissau.

The blue economy session continued at the tour to one of the 88 island Bijagos Island in Guinea Bissau, The Bijagos Islands are the jewel in Guinea-Bissau’s crown, an archipelago of 88 islands that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their isolated location means they are home to some of West Africa’s least adulterated cultural traditions, unspoiled by colonial influence. The Bijagos Island gives a very different face to Bissau.

The event was wholesome indeed bringing people from different part of the world to share a common interest in developing a country which for a long time seemed to be in the shadow. The turn up gave great room for networking and interest in investing in this virgin country proving that there is hope in the country and with this potential showcased, Bissau is rising.

Malam Ndace is a  journalist with Blueprint newspaper

CISLAC trains journalists, CSOs on assets declaration

CISLAC says its one-day training of journalists will amplify the need for asset declaration which will in turn push candidates to publicly declare their assets.

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre held the training on Tuesday for journalists and on Thursday for civil society organisations.

CISLAC believes that the lack of public data on the assets of candidates for public offices has made it difficult to track the corrupt practices of politicians.

“Going by the current situation of things, corruption is endemic at various levels, and with the upcoming 2023 general elections, there is an urgent need for [candidates] to prioritize accountability by publishing details of their assets and liabilities to promote integrity in public service,” said Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC.

The training acquainted journalists with different measures to nudge politicians to fully comply with the asset declaration laws by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

The training also emphasized the need for journalists to investigate past leaks of non-compliance of political aspirants with asset declaration requirements.

According to Mr Rafsanjani, the Pandora and Panama paper leaks have shown how Nigerian politicians systematically breach asset declaration requirements and end up with unexplained wealth stashed abroad.

In most cases, he added, these politicians use the stolen assets to serve illegal political entrepreneurship and illicit funding of political activities such as vote trading, and electoral bribery, which have the potential of being detrimental to free and fair elections.

“Hence, to prevent conflict of interest and detect unjustified assets CISLAC calls for the amplifying of asset declaration as an issue in the front burner during the elections,” he said.

2023: TMG warns against use of security agents to undermine elections

The Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has raised an alarm on plans by undemocratic elements to use the military to mar the 2023 general elections.

TMG in a statement signed by its chairman, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, warned politicians not to involve the security agencies to undermine the credibility of the popular demand and aspirations of Nigerians to have free, fair and credible elections. Already similar incident in 2019 has negatively impacted the legitimacy of polls.

Reacting to a statement by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, who disclosed that security agencies and most especially the military have come under pressure to compromise during elections through various financial inducements.

TMG revealed the high rate of military interference in the 2019 elections and have warned that involvement of "armed men have been a major pose of the politicians to impose their will on Nigerians using security forces to instigate electoral violence and lobbying security agents in their favour.

TMG warned that a repeat will have serious negative implications on good governance in the country.

“We call on our security agencies most especially the Nigerian army and Police force  not  to compromise the integrity of the 2023 elections. Security operatives should remain professional and not be biased or induced by political parties. We call on Political parties to respect the wishes of the system and not undermine the elections."

The group also appealed to the Federal Government to improve the welfare of security officials monitoring electoral materials as this will make them steadfast in fighting against electoral crime.

"In situations where security officials are not adequately paid and have been sent to electoral fields they are likely to be compromised. Electoral integrity is the only way to consolidate democratic values. Nigerians must resist Politicians who want to water down the effort to have free, fair, transparent and credible elections in Nigeria by their planned agenda to use security agencies," the statement concluded.

Danbatta, Mutairu, others to be honoured at 5th Campus Journalism Awards

The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, and the Managing Director of M/W Global Services, Dr. Ibrahim Mutairu, will be honoured at the 5th edition of the Campus Journalism Awards.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Editor of Youths Digest, Gidado Y. Shuaib, said while Mr Danbatta will be honoured as “Outstanding Personality of the Year” (public sector), Mr Mutairu will be honoured as “Outstanding Personality of the Year” (private sector).

The statement also added that both Messrs Danbatta and Mutairu are deserving of the honours, owing to their outstanding performances in the public and private sectors.

The statement read: “Professor Danbatta is the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), an erudite engineer, astute administrator, philanthropist, and an outstanding nation builder par excellence.

“After his appointment as the EVC of NCC in August 2015, he has tremendously transformed the telecom sector in different areas especially in the increase in active mobile broadband penetration, efficient monitoring and value driven usage for the provision of different types of telecom services.

“Dr Ibrahim Mutairu is a strategic project manager and the Managing Director M/W Global Services Limited from 2008 till date.

“A Masters holder in business Administration from Nasarawa State University Keffi and he also holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and diploma in public administration from the University of Abuja, Nigeria.

“He has engaged a number of young Nigerians through his various business interests that cut across road construction, supplies and business consultancy services.”

The statement also added that the Head of Corporate Communications at the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Hadiza Umar, and the Sokoto State Branch Manager of the Bank of Industry, Dr. Dahiru Bala, will be awarded as Honorary Patrons.

“Hajiya Hadiza Umar is an accomplished journalist, PR professional with practical experience in various fields of the media. She joined the corporate communications unit of National Information Technology Development Agency in 2009.

“Over the years, she has created and maintained a sustainable communication channel and understanding between NITDA and its public. She has also been a beacon of hope to young female journalists, inspiring them to be their most authentic selves and never giving up on their dreams.

“Dr Dahiru Bala Mohammed is the Sokoto State manager of the Bank of Industry and the recipient of the Honorary Doctor of Philosophy (Honoris Causa) by the Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu.

“His relentless efforts in upholding social dialogues and for his remarkable contributions to the growth of Nigeria’s business sector is second to none. His exemplary leadership and sound teaching skills has helped in shaping the lives of many students in the Dangote Business School,” the statement added.

CISLAC to FG: Intensify efforts to stop gender-based violence

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has called on the federal government to intensify efforts in curbing gender-based violence in the country.

Making the call on Thursday, while commemorating the 2022 16 Days of Activism themed: “Activism to end gender based violence”, the group said it is seriously worried on the growing spate of gender-based violence in the country, adding that the government should implement more stringent policies that will totally stop the menace.

CISLAC explained that while it is aware of the positive steps taken by the government in the past years, a lot still needs be done to address the challenges of gender-based violence in the country, in line with global best practices.

The statement read: “As the world campaigns for the elimination of all form of Gender-Based Violence across the globe, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) is calling on the Federal Government of Nigeria to intensify efforts to implement its commitment towards the elimination of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria. The theme for this year commemoration is “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls” is calling for collective effort by all stakeholders to stem the tides on the growing menace of violence against women and girls. CISLAC is seriously worried on the growing spate of the menace of Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria. From forced and early marriages to physical, mental, or sexual assault on a woman, nearly 3 in 10 Nigerian women have experienced physical violence by age 15 (NDHS 2013).”

We note with optimism, that recently, the government of Nigeria has taken some bold initiatives to curb these menace, such as; the efforts by the Nigeria Governors Forum to declare a state of emergency on Gender-Based Violence; the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Gender-Based Violence Management Committee; the Senate approval of the Sexual Harassment Bill in furtherance of the legislative agenda to protect women’s rights and at regional level Statement by the ECOWAS Commission calling for urgent action to address GBV and protect the rights of children. In June 2021, the National Human Rights Commission, the Nigeria Police, and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) signed an agreement of formally joining forces to combat GBV. These developments present opportunities to further the prevention and response to GBV in Nigeria."

“However, a lot is still desired to be done in order to turn the table around to address the challenges associated with GBV in line with global best practices. We are calling on the government of Nigeria both at the federal and state level to as a matter of urgency deliver on the below actions in the interest of Nigerians:
(1) Creating enabling policy, legal and resource environments to discourage and punish offenders to serve as deterrent mechanism.
(2) Scale up evidence driven prevention programming to nip in the bud GBV in Nigeria.
(3) Scale up comprehensive, accessible, and quality services for survivors of GBV in Nigeria
(4) Enable and empower autonomous girl-led and women’s rights organizations to exercise their expertise.
We join the rest of the world and in alliance with the theme of this year’s #16days of activism call for Government to end Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria.”

Economic diplomacy: Nigeria and opportunities in Guinea-Bissau

By Jibrin Baba Ndace

Upon attainment of independence in 1960, Nigeria’s Prime Minister (1960-1966), Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, declared “Africa is the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy.” That policy statement has been the underlying commitment of Nigeria to the continent and the West African subregion.

Since independence, therefore, Nigeria’s foreign policy has been characterised by a “Big Brother” role – as a regional power and by attachment to several fundamental principles such as African unity and independence; capability to exercise hegemonic influence in the region; peaceful settlement of disputes; non alignment and non-intentional interference in the internal affairs of other nations; and regional economic cooperation and development.

Thus, for many decades, the nation’s foreign policy thrust was unmistakably afro-centric, becoming the backbone of armed struggle to finally rid the continent of the remnants of the vestiges of colonialism and apartheid.

Consequently, Angola, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia among other African nations, were beneficiaries of Nigeria’s diplomatic benevolence.

In carrying out these principles, Nigeria participates in the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Non-Aligned Movement, the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations, and recently, adopted the Continental Free Trade protocol.

In pursuing the goal of regional economic cooperation and development, Nigeria helped create ECOWAS, which seeks to harmonise trade and investment practices for its 15 West African member countries, ultimately achieve a full customs union, and establish a single currency. Nigeria has played a central role in the ECOWAS efforts to end the civil war in Liberia and contributed the bulk of the ECOWAS peacekeeping forces sent there in 1990. Nigeria also has provided the bulk of troops for ECOMOG forces in Sierra Leone.

Nigeria has enjoyed generally good relations with its immediate neighbours and has actively played a leading role in West Africa. With enormous military power, it has been perpetual in its aim of promoting peace and stability in Africa's most prosperous region for more than three decades.
Despite Nigeria’s glaring contribution to regional peace and stability as well as social and economic development, experts on international affairs and diplomacy have argued that there have not been commensurate benefits and opportunities for the country’s investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. Nigeria has no meaningful economic presence in these countries to compensate for her sacrifices.

Therefore, there is the need for Nigeria to take the lead in articulating the views of developing nations on the need for modification of the existing international economic order and economic diplomacy to promote the growth of these West African country’s economy by increasing trade, promoting investments, collaboration on bilateral and multilateral trade agreements.

As the giant of Africa, Nigeria has succeeded in playing the role of the protective big brother in West Africa but it is time for it to engage in economic diplomacy which can improve foreign policy. There are countries in Africa with huge potentials waiting to be explored.
These countries have their own natural resources and niche which keeps the countries afloat and are open to investors across Africa, especially Nigerians who have the capacity to invest.

It is important to note that the main goal of ECOWAS is to promote economic cooperation among the 15 member states comprising Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo, in order to raise living standards and promote economic development.

In line with the goals of ECOWAS and the need to open up Guinea Bissau to investors in Africa and around the world, the government of Guinea Bissau and the embassies of Nigeria, Cape Verde, and South Africa together with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are jointly organizing and hosting the inaugural edition of Bissau Rising Impact Investment and Trade Forum.

The aim of the event is to open a platform for business leaders, artistes, government officials, policymakers, diplomats and influencers from Africa and beyond. The forum creates new opportunities through cooperation and the exchange of ideas that foster innovation and generate new value to achieve positive impact in the economy, society and environment.

Unlike previous diplomatic engagements, where the majority of Nigerians could not justifiably see anything tangible and beneficial to the man on the street, the current focus is expected to be felt in several ways, including more foreign direct investments, transfer of technologies, taking the nation’s industrial capacities to neighbouring countries, thereby creating a pool of expatriate Nigerian workers, as well as opening new frontier of business opportunities for big and small businesses within and outside the African continent.

Speaking about the potentials and opportunities, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Guinea Bissau and Cape Verde, Ambassador John James Usanga, says: “I have been pushing, very seriously mobilising other ECOWAS ambassadors to prevail on the government to adopt policies that are conducive for investment and investors from ECOWAS, particularly from Nigeria. Can you imagine one industry set up here employing 2000 people, that’s more than 20% of the population taken off.

“We have collaborated with a lot of people in the government and in the private sector, to make Nigerians become aware of the prospects here then we begin to see Nigerians investing and taking up opportunities that for me, will be a good reward because these countries have been our trusted allies in multi-lateral relationships but we have a big problem of connectivity.

“We have a very big problem of connectivity in this place, we need maritime transport to move the goods, and we need air connectivity. I will encourage the Nigerian aviation sector to begin to look towards that. Aircraft can be deployed to these islands and they will still make a lot of money”.

The potentials are unending - “digital economy, infrastructure, blue economy, tourism, finance banking and insurance, creative industry, intellectual property, water sanitation and eco solutions including energy and waste management, logistics and transport” - all these have the potential to drive investment leading to positive social impact and economic change, he said.

Bissau Rising, is no doubt a forum for Africans, but more importantly, Nigerians to look inward and embrace the potentials on the African continent. It is time for Nigerian investors, business leaders to heed the call of Ambassador Usanga by taking advantage of the Guinea Bissau Investment Forum

Jibrin Baba Ndace works with Blueprint Newspapers, Abuja

2023: TMG raises alarm over high rate of political intolerance

A foremost independent civil society election observation group, Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) has raised the alarm over the high rate of political intolerance by states and irate citizens as the 2023 elections draw closer.

In a statement signed on Thursday, the TMG Chairman, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, lamented the vandalisation of INEC offices and attack on personnels in some states as well as refusal of state governments to allow opposition to use public facilities for their campaigns and rallies.

"The high rate of cases of arson at the INEC offices in Ogun and Osun States which has led to the loss of 904 election boxes and 65,699 uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) have become an alarming issue with the critical infrastructure of INEC increasingly being targeted, recent attacks appear like a systematic assault meant to cripple INEC operations ahead of the 2023 general election.

"We have also witnessed scenarios where some state governments prevent the opposition from using public facilities for their campaigns which have been readily available to them.

"It is on the backdrop that TMG is partnering the Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE), an initiative funded by USAID to support citizens' engagement in the 2023 general elections, the partnership is aimed at improving citizen's participation and stakeholders' engagement towards a violent-free, participatory and credible 2023 election."

According to Mr Rafsanjani, the organisations will deploy a wide range of membership across the country to ensure a nationwide outreach of the objectives of the collaboration.

“The collaboration among the two foremost organisations will adopt robust engagements with stakeholders while also initiating a system to monitor and publicize the campaign promises of the major political parties before and after the elections.

“Also the partnership will also be seeking to promote an issue-based electoral campaign and to observe and report electoral conduct to reflect the yearnings of citizens in the elections,” the statement noted.

Mr Rafsanjani added that part of what the partnership intends to address include issues such as election violence and thuggery, vote-buying and voters harassment.

Other issues, according to the statement, included intimidation by security officials and government officials and also to closely monitor the e-electoral process to avoid any anomaly in the elections.

“In achieving the set objectives, TMG will be adopting the following approaches, documenting and publicising election promises of candidates and political parties, training the trainers workshop for TMG members across the country in Abuja, and supporting electoral debates for select parties at the state and national levels,” the statement added.

Return stolen assets to original owners, Rafsanjani to Anti-corruption Agencies

The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani has charged anti-graft and law enforcement agencies in the African continent to ensure that the original owners of stolen assets are given back their assets when recovered.

Speaking at the Global South Forum for Asset Recovery In Nairobi Kenya, Rafsanjani who doubles as the head of Transparency International Nigeria, decried the practice of marginalizing the original owners of stolen assets when recovered by governments across the continent.

He said the case between the Nigerian government and Delta state as well as the mismanaged COVID-19 funds in Kenya are good examples, adding that if not properly checked, the assets risk being re-looted by officials who don’t mean well for their country.

He also charged African countries to come up with legal frameworks for the management of recovered assets, stating that it will encourage countries outside the African continent where the assets are located to send them back to Africa.

Rafsanjani also charged law enforcement and anti-graft agencies in Nigeria to adhere strictly to the recently passed Proceeds of Crime. (Recovery and Management) Act, 2022 when it comes to seizures, confiscation and management of recovered assets.

Rafsanjani said while the new law does not solve the issue of proper coordination, the provision for anti-graft agencies to operate a database of recovered information where citizens can know the status of seized assets is commendable.

He, however, lauded President Buhari and the National Assembly for the piece of legislation which according to him was long overdue.

The forum had representatives drawn from civil society organizations in Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Kenya, Angola, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United State, France, Germany, representatives from the African Union secretariat, GIZ amongst others.

CISLAC trains law enforcement officers on ‘ethics and integrity’

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Civil Society Legislative and Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, in collaboration with Centre for Women and Adolescent Empowerment and MacArthur Foundation, has organised a one-day “ethics and integrity” training, for law enforcement officers in the country.

At the training which held in Yola, CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said the training was designed to sensitize law enforcement officials on how to demonstrate high level of ethics and integrity while they ensure the maintenance of law and order during the upcoming elections.

He stressed that the event was organised with the understanding that law enforcement officials will play a very crucial role in the elections, adding that they will assist INEC in ensuring a free and fair election.

Also speaking, the Executive Director, Centre for Women and Adolescent Empowerment, Yola Ms Asma’u Joda, who was represented by Tijjjani Ubandoma, charged the Law Enforcement officers to carry out their duties effectively and ensure a free and fair election in 2023.

She also tasked law enforcement officers to warn politicians to desist from using thugs to enable violence and electoral malpractices during electioneering process.

Law enforcement officials at the training were drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigerian Immigration Service and Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

Declare your assets publicly, CISLAC tells political candidates

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, has called on candidates running for public offices to publicly declare their assets.

CISLAC made the call during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau, in Abuja on Friday.

Speaking on during the visit, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, urged candidates to ensure full compliance of asset declaration laws by the CCB, adding that it will show accountability and promote integrity in public service.

He said “As we are going into the 2023 General elections, The Executive Director CISLAC said the visit focuses on three objectives, the first objective, which will focus on the campaign season, hopes to encourage candidates running for public office to publicly declare their assets.

“The second and third objectives would urge candidates to commit to ensuring full compliance with asset declaration laws by the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), as well as investigate past leaks around non-compliance with asset declaration when they get into office.

“During the political parties’ primaries, commercialization of politics was the main headline, adding that it became a pointer to how vote trading and electoral bribery can play a disruptive role in the 2023 elections.”

Rafsanjani who said that CISLAC has been working close with the CCB decried lack of support to the agency by the government.

He said it is very important to support the CCB, stating that if supported, the public will know more about the agency and its functions.

Rafsanjani, however, urged the CCB to investigate offences on asset declaration and also send such offences to the tribunal for adjudication.

He also urged the CCB to send a representative to work with CISLAC on the project, while maintaining a good relationship with civil society groups and the media.

The APC Senatorial Candidate for Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha has written the foreword for a new book titled “Visit Kwara” by Abdulrahman Yusuf Dolapo, a book which aims to promote tourism in Kwara State.

In the forward, for the book which will be launched in January 2023, Mr Mustapha who is the Turaki of Ilorin stated that while tourism has been downplayed in Nigeria, it has been a major source of revenue for some countries.

He explained that tourism in Nigeria will go beyond natural scenery, as it will also be seen in the country's art, history and culture.

Mustapha while commending the author, Abdulrahman Yusuf, for his book, said he is pleased to see young Nigerians showing interest in the art and tourism sector.

He said “ Commentators, however, often overlook the huge potential for tourism in Nigeria which has propelled nations like the UAE, Maldives, Georgia, Greece, Nova Scotia, and most recently Rwanda, into the international spotlight. Nigeria’s untapped tourism sector lies not just in the abundant natural scenery in every part of the country but in our art, history and culture.

“It gives me great pleasure to see that youths today have taken their destiny into their hands with their renewed interest in art and tourism.”

Meanwhile, the Author of the book, Abdulraman Yusuf, in a statement released on Friday, explained that the book aims at promoting Kwara State as a place of tourism, adding that the state has a good number of tourist centres which can be explored.

According to Yusuf, the book launch which is scheduled for January 2023, will be an opportunity for different people from around the world to converge in Kwara and see the beauty of the state.

“Since the establishment of Visit Kwara in 2020, the team has worked assiduously to document the people, culture, history, monuments, festivals and natural wonders in Kwara, cutting across the 16 Local Government Areas in the state.

Yusuf said, “This documentary birthed the Visit Kwara Book (A Photographic Documentation Showcasing the People, Places and Culture of Kwara State, Nigeria; and the Visit Kwara film (The Scenics: A Short Film on Kwara’s Tourist Attractions).

“The Visit Kwara Book and Film are scheduled to launch and premiere in January, 2023. The event will be free and aims to provide an opportunity for Kwarans to gather together in celebration of Kwara State's beauty in diversity.

“Thus, the event will not only fill a space in the year's tourism calendar but also offer locals, visitors of the state, international communities, investors, students and tourists the opportunity to meet and discover the talents, cultures and flavours that shape Kwara's mosaic; This is in the spirit of beauty in diversity, inclusion and cultural exchange.”

KWASSIP and the Battle Against Poverty In Kwara

<strong>NEWS DIGEST</strong> - If there is anything that breaks my heart each time I step out of my house in Ilorin, it is the sight of women begging for money to feed. I have been very devastated about this, because I feel that these women, with no any form of deformity, would also desire for themselves a more dignified means of livelihood. Running after people in traffic or at ATM points to beg for money must therefore not be a life they bargained for.

Therefore, when on Wednesday, 21st of September, 2022, the Kwara State Government, through the agency coordinating its social intervention and poverty reduction programmes, Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), announced the commencement of the disbursement of N20,000 each to 30,000 petty traders, the second of such since the coming onboard of the Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq government, I was beside myself with joy. I was happy, not particularly because of the disbursement per say, but because an intervention that holds so much potential, and one whose result was already manifesting across the State, had women as predominant beneficiaries. I could immediately imagine the multiplier effect on families across the State, as well as the reduction in the growing number of ‘begging women’ on our streets.

Just last month (August), the World Bank State by State poverty index for Nigeria put the rate of poverty in Kwara at 20.4 percent, while the national average ballooned to 65.2 percent from the initial 40 percent often cited by government officials. But the improved situation in Kwara did not just happen by chance, considering that a year before Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazak came onboard as Governor, Kwara’s poverty rate stood at 30.2 percent. It therefore speaks to the hard work of Governor Abdulrazak and, by extension, the helmsman At KWASSIP, Mr. Abdulquawiy Olododo and his predecessor, Mr. Mohammed Brimah, that the State has now attained a dignified status as the shining star in poverty reduction, particularly in northern Nigeria.

Those who read politics into the life-changing initiative which ‘Owo Ishowo’ represents are either mischievous or lack the capacity to be dispassionate about issues that concern the welfare of our people. While it may sound like good argument to say the disbursement of this second phase of grant to the petty traders is ominous because it is happening just as campaign is about to commence; anyone who knows the history of the programme would readily acknowledge that the disbursement for the first phase, which had a total of 21, 623, also took place sometime in September, 2020. Therefore, it is immediately obvious that the government of Abdulrahman Abdulrasak has been consistent in its commitment to riding our State of mass poverty.

At a time poverty is said to be rising in Nigeria by at least six people every minute, the Kwara State government remained consistent with its working strategy to support petty traders in order to encourage entrepreneurship, improve the capacity of women to gain sustainable income and therefore curb poverty among the majority of low class families. The grant disbursement, in addition to offering beneficiaries the needed support to expand their businesses and engage in more profitable economic activities, would also help them to earn regular income which would help them meet their daily needs.

Research has also shown that women in Kwara make up the highest number of customers of micro-finance banks. But with the grants made available by the Kwara State government, these women can now avoid the often inconvenient path of bank loans. They can now conveniently secure money for their businesses, improve their disposable income and consequently their living standard as well as their social and political empowerment. It is now highly improbable that any of the petty traders who have continued to benefit from ‘Owo Ishowo’ would be caught begging for N100 or be lured with N500 by any politician. Such is the dignity and honour that Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak is conferring on our women folk in Kwara!

With no fanfare or exaggerated marketing of achievements, Kwara Governor has continued to invest in the places that count and where the benefits are timeless. ‘Owo Arugbo,’ ‘Owo Ishowo’ and the other components of the social investment programme of the State government are clear attestation of where the priority of the government lies. No doubt, this government has shown, beyond any iota of doubt, that the people, ordinary people, represent the fulcrum of its interventions. This is why we would continue to pray that, not ever in Kwara, would we witness a government that think less of our people, but one that think more of them like the current one. May AA continue to succeed, and may Kwara continue to grow under his watch.

Alabi Abdulkarim, a Public Affairs Analyst, is based in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Kwara begins disbursements of cash grant to 30,000 women petty traders

The Kwara State Government on Wednesday kick-started the disbursement of N20,000 grant to 30,000 female petty traders across the 16 local government areas of the state.

The support, which is modelled after a World Bank programme, Nigeria for Women Project, is being coordinated under the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP)’s popular known as "Owo Isowo" initiative.

Abdulquawiy A. Olododo, Ag. General Manager of KWASSIP, said in a statement that the disbursement begins in Ilorin West, Ilorin South, and Asa and will proceed to other local government areas in the coming days.

He said that the programme was designed under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to specially give a lifting hand to the poorest and vulnerable citizens in the state.

He said that the initiative was a clear demonstration of the Governor's commitment to address poverty which has become a core developmental challenge confronting the good people of the state.

“Since the inception of Governor Abdulrazaq’s administration in 2019, it inherited a high national poverty incidence level.

“The State Government has paid more attention to generating solutions to address the plight of the poor and vulnerable in the state in spite of other economic challenges the administration inherited.

“This informed the decision to initiate the Owo Isowo as a strategy for poverty reduction and enhancing women empowerment," Mr Olododo said.

He said the Kwara State Government is the first state to kick off the women empowerment programme after the Federal Government NSIP initiative.

This newspaper gathered the initiative had been approved by the state executive council on August 10, 2022.

Transparency International rates Nigeria as highly corrupt country

Nigeria has been rated as a highly corrupt country, according to the 2021 corruption perception index (CPI) report, released by Transparency International.

In the report which was revealed by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) during the launch of Nigeria's SDG 16 2022 shadow report in New York, Nigeria scored 24 out of 100 points.

CISLAC Director and Head of Transparency International Nigeria, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, while pointing out some factors affecting the country at the shadow report, said Nigeria, although, has made progress in the area of money laundering and asset recovery as compared to past years.

Rafsanjani who is also the board chair of Amnesty International Nigeria also stated that the progress in these areas were due to some legislations made by the National Assembly.

He said “In this year’s report, CISLAC notes an improvement in two indicators as compared to three in 2021 and six in 2019.

“This improvement which can be seen in the policy areas of money laundering and asset recovery, is attributed to the passage and assent into law of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Bill and Proceeds of Crime Management Bill in May 2022.

“The Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 aims to strengthen the powers of relevant agencies in dealing with challenges posed by money laundering by expanding the scope of money laundering in the prevention, prohibition, detection, prosecution, and punishment of offenders.

“The Proceeds of Crime Management Act 2022 aims to better manage recovered assets through the establishment of a central database as well as the establishment of directorates to manage recovered assets in various jurisdictions amongst other measures.”

CISLAC also decried the spate of insecurity in the country stating that insecurity has raised concern among citizens.

Rafsanjani also noted that low revenue generation is another issue rocking the country, adding that it has led to enormous increase in borrowing.

In his report, Rafsanjani also sighted press freedom as another factor where the country is not making progress.

According to him, the governments attempt to fine some media houses over their reportage on the security situation of the country, proves his position.

“The worsening insecurity across Nigeria has raised concern amongst citizens. In addition to this, there is a high level of corruption amidst an increase in national debt.

“As seen on to the 2021 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) released globally by Transparency International where Nigeria scored 24 out of 100 points which is its worst since 2012 when the methodology of the CPI was reformed.

“Another area to be concerned about is Nigeria’s revenue generation problem which has led to an enormous increase in borrowing.

“Official data has shown that Nigeria had a revenue of N1.63 trillion in the first quarter of 2022 which was not even enough to pay the debt of the country for that quarter which was at N1.94 trillion.

“The last factor which fights against tangible progress is the actions of the government against freedom of speech and freedom of the press. The fining of some media houses in August 2022 for the airing of messages on the security situation speaks to this matter.

“On the global Press Freedom Index (PFI) released by Reporters without Borders, Nigeria fell 9 places to 129/180 on the 2022 PFI as against 120/180 on the 2021 PFI,” Rafsanjani said.

What does Saliu Mustapha's drive for youth empowerment mean for Kwara?

If events of the past few years are anything to go by, Kwara citizens can surely see that Mallam Saliu Mustapha has a profound interest in the development of the state. While this might be an easy course to chart, months before an election year, the antecedents are quite clear for anyone quite discerning.

To understand the Turaki of Ilorin's intelligence and length of inclusiveness is to look no further than his response to incumbent Kwara Central representative at the upper chamber, Dr Ibrahim Oloriegbe, who described the primaries that produced Mallam Mustapha as APC senatorial candidate as a “charade.”

He said: “We should avoid comments that do not unite the party and it’s members, notwithstanding our personal feelings. At all times, real leaders must show restraint in their outbursts.”

His words speak volumes as someone committed to doing something productive rather than engaging in trivial public exchanges that only end up heating up the polity.

But the Turaki embodies more than sheer inclusivity. What Kwara state residents can come to expect of the Turaki is a government that values youth empowerment and sports development, as well as defending and protecting the interest of Kwara Central in the Senate.

The Turaki does indeed love all. As a lover of sport, Mallam Mustapha bought 3,000 Kwara sports lovers a ticket to see Kwara United square up against MFM United on July 10. That gesture also included a match-winning bonus for the team which eventually motivated them to win the match.

On Sunday, Saliu Mustapha rewarded the Kwara team with $1500 for defeating AS Douanes of Niger Republic 3-0 in their first match in the CAF Confederation cup, he also pledged another $10,000 for the players if they make it to the group stage.

Turaki captures his interest in sport perfectly during the celebration of International Youth Day in August: “I have continued to see sports as a major platform to foster peace and unity among young people.”

That interest extends to youth empowering schemes. Because Mallam Mustapha finds that youth are instrumental to the growth of the country, he created a programme dedicated to advancing youths' cause in Kwara state.

Mallam Mustapha has already said that his office would make youth empowerment one of their major legislative agenda if elected into office.

Already, youths are the major beneficiaries of the annual aid offered to small and medium entrepreneurs by the Saliu Mustapha Foundation.

As the Turaki of Ilorin, Mallam Mustapha shares a great love for the custom and culture of the Ilorin Emirate. At the 2022 Ilorin Annual Durbar, the Turaki's N15 million and Sienna bus donation made sure that the celebration was befitting of the occasion and a memorable one for his people.

Also in an attempt to meet and share his Political Vision with young people, the Turaki of Ilorin engaged the association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) at his Ilorin residence on Monday 12 July, 2022. In the meeting, he promised to employ an all-inclusive representation that will be of great benefits to the youth, women, widows and other members of his constituency, if elected - a promise borne out of his love for the masses and the development of human capital in the area.

The meeting which was attended by young media owners and social media influencers witnessed the Turaki promising to foster and harness development of mining in Kwara state.

The Turaki's humanitarian gestures are visible across the state. I couldn't have a higher opinion of him than I already do.

Such is his concern for developmental issues in Kwara state and his commitment to resolving them within and without the capacity of a Senator. But what has endeared me to him, as it would many Kwara state citizens, particularly the state's thriving youth community, is his deep and sincere love for youth empowerment.

“I believe that giving young people opportunities will help maximize their contributions to the development of our dear country,” he said during the celebration of International Youth Day.

Little wonder he was honoured by the National Association of Nigerian Students for his outstanding contribution to the development of the education sector in Kwara at the 40th anniversary celebration of the apex student body.

A real man of the people and quintessential lover of the masses with incredible passion for education, Mallam Mustapha keeps proving such commitment with the annual inter-school mathematics competition and debate hosted by his foundation and the thousands of students for whom he pays WAEC, NECO and JAMB in the state.

Mallam Mustapha is a rare gem whose motto in life is “For God and country.” His humanitarian activities and interest in result-oriented governance means that the people of Ilorin have struck gold…. A precious metal they would want to have in the highest lawmaking body in the country.

Kabir Agaka, a youth advocate writes from Ilorin.

The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLA), Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani has condemned the N48 billion surveillance contract awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to an ex-militant, Mr Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo.

Rafsanjani made this known in a statement on Monday, September 12.

As contained in the statement, Rafsanjani made reference to Tompolo's past records and troubles with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the years.

He questioned the integrity of the NNPC ltd for ignoring his past records before awarding him the contract.

Rafsanjani said: "What is the value of the investments and allocations made from the national treasury to the numerous security paraphernalia in Nigeria if an EX-militant is seen to be more competent to deliver on security issues than the entire armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

"Who over-sighted the procurement process of this award, were there bids, and what process led to his emergence on this award, or is our bureau of public procurement also an incompetent institution that couldn’t deliver on a free and equitable process? On the other doesn’t the law have clear stipulations on contract awards in Nigeria?"

The CISLAC boss further made reference to the agitation of rival groups who blamed the government for not consulting before awarding the contract.

These groups are said to have threatened to sabotage the execution of the contract if not carried along properly.

Rafsanjani, however, questioned the status of the NNPC Ltd "if it is still an agency of government given a contract on behalf of the government or a commercial entity that should be running their cost based on performance and have their operation approved by the governing board of that establishment?"

Speaking further on the issue, Rafsanjani disclosed that the decision to award Tompolo the surveillance contract in the Niger Delta area was a clear indication that the Nigerian government is promoting criminality.

Rafsanjani said: "It is really sad that the Nigerian government is promoting criminality. Because what they have practically done is encourage criminality. So, criminals can take arms against the state and they can now rubbish our own security; the police, navy, army, and DSS meaning all of them cannot secure the country or the oil pipelines. One day, the Nigerian government will come and hire terrorists to guide us, this is really terrible."

Rafsanjani further urged the government to uphold the commitment and mantra that brought them to power in 2015.

He stated that it is still not late for the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to redeem itself and make some measurable impact and decision that is just, fair, and civil for the greater good of Nigeria.

TMG raises alarm over INEC plans to upturn Yobe senatorial primary election result

NEWS DIGEST - A non-governmental organisation, Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, has expressed displeasure over plans by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to overturn Yobe North Senatorial election that produced Bashir Machina, a candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

In the poll held on May 28, 2022, the INEC-certified true copy report of the primary election gave that Bashir scored 289 votes out of 300 delegates.

TMG, in a press statement signed by its Chairman, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), questioned the sanity and sanctity of the rule of law by INEC in its ongoing plans to upturn the result of APC primary for the Senatorial District.

"We are not unaware of the alleged overall objective triggering the latest position by INEC to upturn the primary in favour of the incumbent Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, whose participation in the Senatorial primary has been disqualified by the provisions of Electoral Act, for his involvement at the same time as a candidate of Presidential Primary, where he contested and lost.  

"Just as we are worried by the cross-carpet impunity in some political parties that deliberately reversed victories or allowed dubious re-runs in favour of some candidates who had contested and lost their primaries under separate seats.

"We find the tactical pursuit of injustice and impunity through judicial institution displayed in an Affidavit dated August 11, 2022 filed before the Federal High Court in Damaturu, Yobe state, as tantamount to probable disobedience to the sanity and sanctity of the provisions of Electoral Act and betray of public trust.

"Given the recent development in the electoral sphere, we are more concerned by the readiness of INEC to maintain required competence and neutrality to deliver free, fair and credible elections in 2023.

"We observed with serious condemnation, the deliberately created condition by the Electoral Body to upturn the outcome and victory of a democratically recognized candidate in favour of an individual, who qualifies neither within the context of Electoral Law, nor as a documented contestant in the Senatorial primary.

"We therefore call on INEC to maintain absolute neutrality and respect for the rule of law in its activities at all levels, to demonstrate competence and trustworthiness to secure integrity and public trust in the 2023 general elections.

"We also call for the immediate prosecution by relevant authorities, of all upturned primaries of various political parties in favour of selected candidates, who had been disqualified by the Electoral Act for contesting under separate seats," the statement reads.