Dr Asue Ighodalo visits a renowned Businessman and a Philontrppist, Julius Aruobhosele ( Oba of the Youths), and some of his associates at his home residence in Ekpoma
As the people of Edo State await the formal announcement of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) deputy governorship candidate with several names been touted by political interest groups, Osarodion Ogie Esq, stands out conspicuously as the best for the position.
Apart from the fact that several opinion polls by members of the party and outside it are heavily tilted in his favour, he is said to be generally acceptable to people in other parties including the opposition All Progressives Party, APC, and the Labour Party, LP, owing largely to his pedigree and kind disposition towards all and sundry. Besides that, his wealth of experience spanning about two decades in governance are readily cited as critical prerequisites that the occupant of the seat should possess.
Ogie’s vast network with the past and present administrations in the state with sterling and impeccable performances have been adjudged as indispensable wealth of experienc
"As I value you, abeg value me" ~ Dr Asue Ighodalo He is Jovial and playful, yet serious and focused. Dr. Asue Ighodalo displays his humor side once again.#AsueIghodalo2024
Dr. Mathew Chima Amadi, chairman of the board of the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) has bagged the New Telegraph Newspaper Social Crusader of the Year award.
Dr. Amadi received the award for his outstanding contributions to various sectors of the economy, and for his role in championing social causes that resonate on a national scale.
The Umuekwunne, Ngor Okpala born social entrepreneur and trained human nutritionist, was presented with the award on Friday at the well attended 2023 New Telegraph Award, which held in Lagos.
Amadi’s recognition alongside governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Senator Douye Diri, Muhammadu Yahaya, Peter Mbah of Lagos, Bayelsa, Gombe, Enugu, and Bauchi states respectively underscores the breadth of his influence and the universal impact of his initiatives.
As a Social Crusader of the Year, Dr. Amadi’s accomplishments extend beyond regional boundaries. His influence has clearly manifested not only in Ngor Okpala but also in the broader Nigerian landscape.
To this effect, Amadi, as a social crusader fights for public good even as he promotes social serves that give lifewire to the poor. This has remarkably made him the cynosure of all eyes and ultimately uplift his to his current recognition by one of the fastest growing national newspapers.
A man of decency, Amadi’s biggest assess is his highly developed mind which has enabled him to be cherished by the public as a disciplined personality with character, competence and courage..
Chima Amadi Spends Millions On Kinsmen, Gifts Popular Musician Kabaka A Car
In line with his annual display of kindness, a popular entrepreneur from Imo State, Dr. Chima Amadi, popularly known as Mazi Gburugburu, has through the Jude and Juliana Foundation (named after his parents) empowered more than 3000 villagers from his Ngor Okpala Community and other neighboring villages this year 2024.
The serial entrepreneur, organized football matches, and other competitions in wrestling, boxing, music and dance, and gifted more than thirty million naira in cash to winners and runners-up of these competitions. He equally supported 100 widows of the villages with Fifty thousand naira each, and provided 10 motorcycles to other winners.
As a form of extending his benevolence, a famous musician of the famed Oriental Brothers International Band, Sir. Godwin Kabaka, was gifted with a car for achieving over 1.5 million streams of his latest album titled 'Abialam', which was released in September 2023 by Derda Promotions, his media company, by Mazi Gburugburu.
This extreme show of kindness by Mazi Gburugburu to the legendary musician and other beneficiaries is the talk of town and worthy of commendation.
The recent press statement released by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not only a clarion call but also a glaring manifestation of irony, as the party attempts to paint the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration with the brush of totalitarianism and anarchy while conveniently ignoring its own egregious acts against democratic principles.
The PDP's alarmist rhetoric about Nigeria sliding into totalitarianism echoes hollow in the face of its own refusal to comply with court orders, a fundamental pillar of any democracy. The party conveniently sidesteps the glaring hypocrisy in its refusal to obey the orders of the Honorable Justice C.O Ajah of the Enugu State High Court directing it to recognize Rt. Hon. SKE Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary of the party until the determination of the substantive suit.
While pointing fingers at the APC for alleged attempts to stifle democracy, the PDP forgets its own troubling role in undermining democratic norms. The party's disregard for the judiciary's directive exposes a disconcerting double standard that undermines the very fabric of the democracy it claims to champion.
The PDP's selective amnesia becomes even more apparent when it talks about conflicting judgments and alleged manipulations of elections. One cannot help but wonder if the party is engaging in deliberate irony, given its own record of contesting election outcomes through the legal system while simultaneously refusing to abide by court decisions when they go against its interests.
The press release's emphasis on the importance of democracy rings hollow when juxtaposed with the PDP's actions. A democracy thrives on respect for the rule of law, adherence to court orders, and a commitment to transparency. The PDP's refusal to comply with the Enugu State High Court's order exposes a glaring contradiction in its supposed dedication to democratic ideals.
It is imperative for the PDP to reassess its stance and align its actions with the democratic principles it professes to uphold. To genuinely contribute to the defense and sustenance of democracy, the party must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to the rule of law and respect for court decisions.
In conclusion, the PDP's attempt to cast itself as a defender of democracy is a paradoxical narrative, given its own track record. To truly preserve and protect Nigeria's democracy, all political parties, including the PDP, must be held to the same standard of adherence to the rule of law and respect for the judiciary's independence.
Youth activist and Chairman of Rivers State Chapter of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, has been arrested after leading attack on the official residence of the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
One Year Anniversary: Edo Progressive Men Put Smiles on Orphanages, Shares Palliatives
As part of the event to mark its one year of existence, prominent social group, Edo Progressives, on Friday distributed palliative to different orphanages in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
While speaking on the sideline, the president of the group, Comrade Johnson Adamu, explained that the group's decision to fete with the children in orphanages is part of its mision to supplement the efforts of the government, especially in this trying period.
He congratulated members of the Edo progressive on the one year anniversary of the group, and enjoined them to double the efforts to see a greater Edo State and Nigeria as a whole in the coming years.
Ingenium Communications unveils tailored marketing and business growth solutions for start-ups
In a stride towards empowering burgeoning enterprises, Ingenium Communications, a premier marketing communications agency in Nigeria, has proudly presented Xcellerate – a bespoke marketing suite meticulously crafted for start-ups and businesses of diverse scales.
This innovative initiative is aimed at equipping start-ups and MSMEs with the essential tools and expertise to propel their growth trajectory.
Leveraging their profound insights into the challenges that start-ups encounter, Ingenium Communications has meticulously curated a suite of service packages to cater to the nuanced requirements and financial considerations of start-ups at various phases of their evolutionary journey.
Comprising five distinct Xcellerate bundles named Ignition, Gear Up, Accelerate, Turbocharge, and Hyperdrive, this suite boasts a diverse array of services to ignite marketing efforts, fortify branding strategies, expedite growth endeavors, amplify marketing campaigns, and even pave the way towards achieving unicorn status.
With a spectrum encompassing the freemium tier up to the NGN1,000,000 top tier, these bundles present tailored options to address a multitude of needs. The Ignition Bundle, available at zero cost for the initial three months, furnishes beginners with virtual monthly marketing consultation calls and comprehensive social media audits. For early-stage start-ups, the Gear Up Bundle encompasses brand identity development, social media content creation, and analytics reporting.
Stepping up the ladder, the Accelerate Bundle is tailor-made for established brands seeking rapid expansion. It includes all the services in the Gear Up package, coupled with Social Media Content Creation (3 posts weekly), monthly blog posts, quarterly press releases, and regular analytics and reporting. Meanwhile, the Turbocharge Bundle offers an enhanced suite, incorporating physical/virtual consultation calls, website design (UI/UX), social media management across four platforms, comprehensive strategy development, and detailed reporting and analytics – ideal for those striving for a competitive edge.
Embodying the pinnacle of the suite, the Hyperdrive Bundle delves into industry leadership positioning and unicorn aspirations. It encompasses on-demand marketing consultation and repositioning if required, comprehensive social media management across all platforms, dedicated content creation teams, as well as premium PR services (pricing available upon inquiry).
Mukhtar Oyewo, the Head of Growth at Ingenium Communications, conveyed, "We recognize the unique challenges that start-ups grapple with, and our commitment is to equip them with the necessary tools and guidance for triumphant strides. Xcellerate embodies our conviction that it will supercharge start-ups' marketing endeavors and steer them towards fulfilling their business objectives." Thanks to its adept team and a proven track record, Ingenium Communications has emerged as a sought-after partner for a multitude of Nigerian and international start-ups.
In the heart of Nigeria, where the sun rises on dreams and ambition, a gathering of industry leaders recently sparked a flame of inspiration, discussing the State of the Nigerian Workforce. Organized by Worklife Africa, this event aimed to uncover bold and pragmatic ideas that can unlock productivity and foster wellbeing in the workplace, even amidst challenging economic conditions. Hear from Kike Fajemirokun, Head of Human Resources & Admin at Lekoil Nigeria, about her perspectives on the Nigerian workforce and how to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Her stories, strategies, and quotes will echo the heartbeat of the Nigerian workforce.
Nigeria's workforce has always been known for its resilience and tenacity. However, with the ever-changing economic landscape, novel challenges emerge, demanding adaptive solutions. Kike Fajemirokun shared her personal encounters with the economic crisis and the wellbeing of her team, bringing to light the importance of empathy and communication during turbulent times. "It boils down to what is going on right now," she said with conviction, reminding us that staying attuned to the workforce's needs is paramount to success.
An orchestra of ideas and innovation resonated during the discourse, and one tune stood out distinctly – the significance of inclusive decision-making. Kike Fajemirokun stressed, "Employees yearn to be part of the decision-making process, regardless of their position. When we let them know we've heard them and involve them in the journey, trust is built, and the magic of motivation is unleashed."
In a nation grappling with fuel price increases and the shadows of a pandemic, tailored solutions for each company and employee group are vital. "One size does not fit all," asserted Fajemirokun, reinforcing the need for open communication to tackle the push backs that could arise. When companies foster a culture of dialogue, employees feel valued, and a united front emerges to navigate the stormy seas together.
The heartbeat of any organization lies in the hearts of its people. Kike Fajemirokun passionately addressed the outflow of talented individuals seeking greener pastures, challenging leaders to embrace empathy to retain their stars. "The younger generation doesn't care how you were raised; they want to feel understood," she emphasized, adding that empathetic leadership is the elixir that fosters loyalty and productivity.
Balancing conversations, particularly with diverse generations, is a delicate art. The burden lies on leaders to learn the language of their teams and invest in skillset training. The wisdom shared by Fajemirokun reverberated, echoing the significance of great leadership in nurturing the workforce.
As the sun sets on one generation, another rises to take its place. Fajemirokun offered a powerful reminder that investing in attitude and personality is a catalyst for growth. "Skills can be taught, but the right attitude is the foundation for success," she affirmed. Companies that focus on building a team of passionate and positive individuals cultivate an environment ripe for success.
Honest conversations with key team members become the compass for retaining talent. A plea to those stars to stay becomes a mutual relationship, nurturing loyalty and commitment. The foundation of any organization rests on the strength of its team, and investing in their growth reaps abundant rewards.
As the echoes of the discourse fade into the horizon, one truth remains – the Nigerian workforce is an unstoppable force, ever-evolving and resilient. Through open communication, empathy, and inclusive leadership, we can unlock the true potential of our workforce and thrive amidst the most challenging economic conditions. The wisdom shared by Kike Fajemirokun, ignites a beacon of hope, guiding us through uncharted waters. By treating employees as cherished assets, embracing their diversity, and nurturing their growth, Nigerian businesses will undoubtedly flourish.
In this enchanting journey of unlocking productivity and wellbeing, let us all remember the power of communication, the magic of empathy, and the beauty of investing in the character and attitude of our workforce. Together, we shall rise and shine, illuminating the path to a brighter future for Nigeria's workforce and its resilient spirit.
Kike Fajemirokun is the Head of Human Resources & Admin at Lekoil Nigeria
Kwarans will go to the polls on the 11th of March to either elect a new governor or return the incumbent governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazak. The election will be a referendum on Abdulrahman Abdulrazak’s tenure in office. The guber election in Kwara is already shaping up to be a hard-fought race between 5 parties, The incumbent APC, PDP, YPP, SDP and NNPP.
In 2019, Kwarans were hoodwinked by latter day saviours into the Otoge mini revolution that got Governor Abdulrazaq elected to office, ever since then people have complained about the lack of experience from the governor and his retinue of appointees and aides. The governor started his tenure by picking fights with fellow APC members and Otoge crooners. He then started a war of supremacy and vendetta against the Saraki Family, as if that will endear him more to everyday Kwarans that only needed to see the dividends of Democracy and good governance.
The governor pushed out the state party exco that helped elect him into office and then fictionalised the party, The party then broke into two with the BOB faction moving to set up another secretariat. All efforts by the national headquarters and leaders of the party from the North Central zone to reconcile the feuding factions failed. The governor did not welcome any reconciliation efforts, he went on to alienate and heavily criticise other party leaders like Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture; Sen. Gbemisola Saraki, Minister of State, Solid Mineral Development; Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, Prof. Oba Abdulrahim, former Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin and ex-chairman, Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hakeem Lawal, Alh. Yakubu Gobir, Alh. Yahaya Seriki, Alh. Yaman Abdullahi, Hon. Saheed Popoola, and many of the APC leaders in the state.
Asides from internal party squabbles, his personal vendetta against the former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki led him to abandon all previous projects and failed to propose a coherent plan for everyday Kwarans, he was busy with personal fights and four years later, there is a consensus that the governor has failed Kwarans and he cannot point to any achievement in his first term in office as he seeks another term. Unlike 2019’s Otoge, the main slogan in Kwara is now Osu wa- meaning we are tired.
The original O to Ge – APC platform of 2019 has now broken into pieces such that a quarter is now populating Social Democratic Party (SDP), led by Akeem Lawal, the gubernatorial candidate. Another quarter is in the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP) where Prof. Oba Abdulrahim (Oba Abu), another former APC chieftain, is the flagbearer, while a third quarter is in Young People’s Party (YPP) led by Yakubu Gobir, formerly of APC, who is the gubernatorial candidate. All these former allies are set to do battle with the Governor.
The PDP elected Yaman Abdulahi as its governorship candidate in a transparent process, and he has immediately hit the ground running with his campaign. Abdulahi Yaman is a renowned businessman from Tsonga, Kwara North. The ABU Zaria graduate has shown his capacity in the private sector by building multiple successful companies and he is now ready to give back to the people of Kwara by serving them.
Shuaibu Yaman Abdulahi is an experienced technocrat, he is a current Federal Commissioner, Revenue Mobilization and Fiscal Commission, he has added value to the country via several appointments like the Mineral and Metals National Technical Working Group for Vision 2020 where he was a member. He was also a member of the Abuja Investment company board from 2018-2019 and was a member of the Railway board in 2007. Shuaibu Abdulahi Yaman was the Chairman of the Railway Reform Implementation Committee from 2006 till 2007 when Nigeria sought to revamp its railway sector, the result of his rigorous background job can still be felt today with new rail infrastructure.
Shuaibu Abdulahi Yaman has the required government and private sector experience, in the private sector, he was appointed a Director, Media Trust Limited, the publishers of Daily Trust Newspaper and Director, Trade Bank PLC and locally in Kwara he was Director of Kwara State Grains Production Company. Kwara needs this balance of public and private sector to drive the state to new heights.
Abdulahi Yaman has identified mechanised agriculture in Kwara as one of the most important sectors in the state and he has promised to provide 20,000 jobs through cotton production, Abdulahi Yaman believes the axis of Barunten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara state could boast of cotton production, and he will establish a ginnery to create jobs by working with the private sector.
According to him, “I have spoken to Chinese companies who could build generators powered by coal. We have coal in abundance in nearby Kogi that can assist in power generation needed by the cotton clusters we intend to create with that, we can make our product competitive and undercut illegal imports, providing jobs from which tax can be paid to the government.”
Human capital development is another core area of focus, which is why it wasn’t surprising when he was endorsed by the National Association of Kwara State Students (NAKSS). The President of NAKSS, Mr Alawaye Musbau decried the state of investment in education and human capital development by the incumbent APC government and stated that the PDP candidate is the only alternative after they held interactive sessions with all the other opposition candidates in the state. Abdulahi Yaman thanked them and stated that no child will be denied public education and promised to revive the student loan board to guarantee uninterrupted schooling for pupils in the state.
The PDP candidate has also promised to continue the legacy of previous PDP administrations by completing abandoned projects that Governor Abdulrazak has ignored because of personal differences. As Kwarans go to the polls, we must consider the platform that has done it before, the one that gave us great infrastructure, an aviation school, a state university and multiple roads, we must ignore the mistake of 2019 to avoid voting inexperienced people with a rush of blood to the head, it is important to make informed decisions for our future.
The National Youth Leader of Peoples Democratic Party /Director Youth Mobilisation PDP-NYCC, Prince Mohammed Kadade, and his deputy, Hon. Timothy Osadolo, at a Town Hall meeting with Youth groups in Lagos State, asked youths of the southwest to vote out the ruling All Progressive Congress across the Southwest zone.
Speaking to the gathering , Prince Kadade, stated that only Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa possess the required experience and qualification to address the myriads of Nigeria’s problems.
He also drew a parallel between Chief MKO Abiola (winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election) and Senator Bola Tinubu, the APC presidential candidate, lamented that while Abiola was a democrat that built bridges across the country, Tinubu turned himself to a dictator with a self entitlement of Nigeria's presidency.
Also speaking, Hon. Timothy Osadolo decried the plight and future of Nigeria youths and children owing to Nigeria's dwindling economic fortunes and the extraordinary rising debt. He urged the Youths to vote for Atiku Abubakar to ensure economic prosperity and a secured future.
Hon. Ada Fredrick Okwori, the Deputy Director (Female youths) energized female youths to make it a duty to ensure that Atiku is delivered at their respective polling units across the country.
Present at Townhall are the PDP State Youth Leaders in five out of the six states in the southwest.
Southwest NANS Endorse Atiku
Meanwhile, the National Association of Nigerian Students in the Southwest zone, was present at the Town Hall meeting to declare support of the students in the zone for Atiku Abubakar.
The endorsement was made known by Comrade Alao John, the Deputy Coordinator of the student body in the zone.
According to the NANS leader, "Southwest students cannot vote for a party (APC) that kept them at home for over 8 months".
He equally stated that the body has already formally endorsed Atiku and communicated same to him.
"When Atiku Abubakar, the incoming president, visited Oyo State, I personally presented a certificate of endorsement of Southwest students to him", Alao stated.
The People's Democratic Party (PDP) has unveiled a new voter education video ahead of the 2023 Presidential Elections that reminds Nigerians of the party's accomplishments, including a booming economy, a strong naira, low inflation, no recession, foreign investment, and a good life.
On the other hand, the APC-led administration is marked by bad governance, which has resulted in a faltering economy, high unemployment, soaring domestic and international debt, and the unsettling trend of mass emmigration.
In additon, the film instructs voters on how to vote so they can recover Nigeria on election day.
With a five-point recovery plan that includes securing Nigerians, expanding the economy, bolstering education for productivity, reorganizing our government to function more effectively, and strengthening our union, the PDP is providing Nigerians with a safe choice to recover their country.
....Kadade, Timothy Mobilise Young Nigerians For Atiku-Okowa
The Peoples Democratic Party Youth Campaign Council (PDP-YCC) shall on Saturday commence her Youths and Students Stakeholders Engagement/Townhall meetings across the six geopolitical zones to sensitise and mobilise young Nigerians to support the candidature of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Party's presidential and vice presidential candidates respectively.
The Youth Townhall Team, which is expected to kick-off in the Northeast, shall be led by the PDP-YCC Director of Youth Mobilisation and National Youth Leader of the Party, Hon. Muhammed Kadade. Also on the entourage is the Deputy Director of Youth Mobilisation and Deputy National Youth Leader, Hon. Timothy Osadolo, Deputy Director (Female Youths), Ada Fredrick Kokori, as well as other youth leaders of the Party.
It is a fundamental principle that elections are a referendum on the incumbent. It also goes without saying, that contestants on a party’s platform are to run on the party’s record. Or lack of it.
I will give examples
The Obasanjo, running on the platform of the newly formed PDP campaigned on Economic prosperity, Banking consolidations, unbundling of the telecoms industry and what have you.
Alongside his Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the administration delivered on these promises.
Hence, the PDP in seeking the peoples’ mandate in 2003, 2007 and 2011 ran on the party’s records. The Late Umaru Musa Yar’dua (in 2007), Goodluck Jonathan (in 2011 & 2015) touted the party’s numerous achievements in office and promised to do even better.
In 2019, the Atiku/Obi ticket also ran on the party’s record stretching back to 1999. They embraced both the successes and failures of the numerous PDP administrations.
It’s how it works; a candidate cannot seek to separate himself from his party’s successes or failures.
Brings me to the main issue, which is Bola Tinubu’s attempts at touting himself as ‘pro masses’ by trying to somehow separate himself from his party’s monumental failures and anti-people policies that have being since 2015.
It doesn’t work that way.
Nigerians have unanimously agreed that the APC administration since 2015 is the worst of our lifetime. What’s more? Everyone (including APC supporters) are in agreement that the Buhari-led APC Government’s Anti-people policies have made people poorer and more miserable.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC Presidential candidate has promised (with no ambiguities) to continue the failed anti-people policies of the current government.
What is this Buhari legacy Bola Tinubu wants to continue if voted into power?
Fuel scarcity Border closures Corruption Monumental debts with nothing to show Naira scarcity Increased insurgency across the fro political regions ASUU strikes Cryptocurrency ban
Etc
It is on record that Bola Tinubu has sided with the Buhari administration over the people of Nigeria since 2015. He has defended and justified the Government’s inhumane policies with no remorse. Same applies to his teeming followers.
As you head for the polls in two weeks Thereabout, it’s expedient on you to go with the #SafeChoice which is Alhaji Atiku Abubakar who is running on his party’s platform of prosperity.
If you want the APC anti-people policies to be a thing of the past, you have to reject Tinubu
Nigerians must reject Tinubu’s sly attempts at distancing himself from his party’s failure. The coming election is a referendum on the APC and they must be voted out from Top to bottom on the ballot.
[b]The Think Canada Fair is bringing together an array of top Canadian Universities, alongside their representatives, to the biggest study fair in Nigeria.
The yearly event is scheduled to hold in Lagos Abuja and Port Harcourt in October 2022, with the aim of presenting Canadian education in the most exciting manner to intending students in Nigeria (undergraduates and postgraduates).
The four-day event will hold in Lagos Mainland on Friday, October 14, at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja and Lagos Island on Saturday, October 15, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.
The event will also take place in Abuja on Tuesday, October 18, at Bolton White Hotel, Garki and Port Harcourt on Thursday, October 20, at Hotel Presidential, Aba road.
The Marketing Manager, Mr Femi Olatunji, said he is looking forward to welcoming representatives from the University of Ottawa, University of Manitoba, University of Lethbridge, Toronto Metropolitan University and many more top universities and colleges.
“We are excited to bring the best of Canadian education to the doorsteps of Nigerian students, who are excited to study abroad. From free Visa counselling sessions to one on one interaction with Canadian University representatives, the Think Canada Fair is providing a remarkable opportunity for several Nigerian students to achieve their dream of studying in Canada.” he stated. [/b]
Ongoing... Sea of humans march for PDP in Cross river State (this morning). When we tell Obidients and Emilokan people that the entire SS and SE are fully Atikulated in 2023 they think we are blabbing. This is Testing the microphone.
Facts have emerged that several blocs within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including very influential statutory delegates to the Party’s National Convention for the election of its presidential candidate, have intensified pressure for the adoption of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, as the consensus Presidential Candidate for the 2023 general elections.
This is coming on the heels of last Wednesday’s adoption of consensus by the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) as one of the options for the selection of its candidate for the 2023 Presidential election.
This is also as the Inter-Party Presidential Consensus Forum (IPCF) on Thursday, restated its earlier call on PDP governors to adopt Udom Emmanuel as consensus candidate while other aspirants from the north should, in the interest of national peace, justice, equity and fairness, allow the South to produce the next President, after the eight years tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari.
It was gathered that the lobby for Governor Emmanuel as consensus Presidential candidate bolstered after the meeting of PDP governors in Abuja last Wednesday with no fewer than seven out of the 13 PDP governors said to be disposed to discussions in Gov Emmanuel’s favour.
A source at the governors’ meeting in Abuja hinted that the seven governors, who are not in Presidential contest, leaned towards Emmanuel especially given their conviction that the choice of the Akwa Ibom governor will douse the tension that has arisen from the South/North contest for the Presidency as he is said to be amenable to both sides.
While only four out of the 13 PDP governors are contesting the Presidency, no South East Governor from the PDP is in the Presidential race.
It would be recalled that the PDP governors are insisting that the Party should draw its Presidential candidate from its fold; a position that have gained traction due to the high influence the governors exert in the electoral process, particularly the control of delegates to the Presidential primary.
Speaking on the development, a top national official of the PDP, who pleaded anonymity, hinted that there might be surprises ahead of the Presidential Primary, averring that the odds may favour Udom Emmanuel under the consensus arrangement.
He confirmed that there has been pressure on delegates from several blocs within the PDP including very influential stakeholders pushing for the adoption of Governor Udom Emmanuel.
According to him, “Yes. I can confirm to you that our Party is exploring the consensus arrangement as resolved by the NEC. Stakeholders are talking among themselves. Our governors are meeting and they are taking decisions including their insistence that one of them should be the Presidential candidate.
“Several blocs have emerged. There are discussions around Udom Emmanuel whose candidacy they believe will douse the tension that has arisen from the north and south contest for the Presidency. You know Udom Emmanuel is amenable to both sides”, he said.
Meanwhile the National Coordinator of IPCF Abubakar Danladi, reported that the Forum’s consultation across the country indicated a widespread preference for Governor Udom.
“We have conducted series of surveys and reviews among Nigerians with Permanent Voters Card (PVCs) and the result shows that most Nigerians support for a younger leader as well as power shift to the Southern parts of the country citing national peace, equity, justice and rapid development as major reasons.
“Our surveys showed that more Nigerians preferred the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Udom, because of his personal composure, proven capacity to ensure national unity and stimulate human capital and infrastructural development in critical sectors.
“The survey also reflected on Governor Emmanuel’s ability to establish and successfully manage highly specialized ventures including the Ibom Air, Ibom Deep Sea Port, Ibom Industrial Park/Jetty as well as power, refinery projects, gas processing plants and top-class health facilities which show that with his type of leadership our nation can indeed achieve success in such critical areas” he said.
Danladi noted that the IPCF will send a high-powered delegation to the PDP leadership with a detailed report on the acceptability and electoral worth of the Party’s Presidential aspirants among Nigerians so as to guide the party ahead of the Presidential Primary.
Politics / Re: Edo 2024: Dr Asue Ighodalo Visits Oba Of The Youths In Ekpoma by ibibiofirstlady(f): 4:29pm On Mar 15