₦airaland Forum

2019: Namadi Sambo, Former VP not under any pressure to defect to APC


Sources close to Arc Mohammed Namadi Sambo, the former Vice President from Kaduna dismissed the rumours making the round that Arc Namadi is about to give in to purported pressure from anti-graft agencies to join the ruling party, All Progressive Congress (APC) or face trial for imaginary corruption cases. The source said that Namadi is very much committed to the People Democratic Party (PDP) and has no plan to defect to the ruling party, APC.
The source said; "I can tell you authoritatively that Arc Namadi is not under any pressure from the anti-graft to decamp to the APC to avoid being arrested. Namadi has been transparence through his tenure as the governor and Vice President of Nigeria hence nothing can be used to cow him into leaving the PDP, a party he worked for with other Patriots to build."
The source further said; " The claim that the vice president is pressurized by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) due to corruption charges is not only false but doesn't exist. The former vice president has been investigated due to the information gotten from the whistle blower which turns out to not only to be false but the whistle blower is thrown into jail. He was prosecuted for fraudulent misrepresentation and Sambo's Kaduna residence which was damaged as a result of the force entry was repaired. EFCC distance itself from the raid carried out in his Kaduna residence while the one carried out by the EFCC at his office, nothing incriminating was found."
The source also said that the new media attack against Namadi isn't unconnected to the forthcoming PDP gubernatorial primaries in Kaduna. "The late entry of the former Director General National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mohammed Sani Sidi, into the race is due to encouragement by the vice president. Other are of the view that Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai is sponsoring him to cause chaos in the party. These allegations are in their entirety false as Namadi has no business with Sidi's gubernatorial ambition."
The source further clarify the allegations of the former Vice President honouring APC' events with his presence.
The source thus; "It is shamful for anyone to think that Namadi has relationship with the APC by attending events organised by the APC led administration. Governor el-Rufai invited His Excellency to the commissioning of the first phase of the Zaria water project, which Arc Sambo started during his time as Kaduna State Governor and had attained some appreciable level of completion before he left for Abuja to assume the office of Vice President. He attended the event because it was one of his legacy projects. The second event to which he was invited and attended was the 100 years Centenarian celebration of Kaduna State. Did the above invitation and honouring them with his presence makes him an APC?

“At the national level, the former Vice President has attended only events for which he belongs in the protocol list of government. His visitations to the incumbent President and Vice President were in honor of legitimate invitations and some cases retaliatory from them.

“It is instructive to further state that the former VP has attended all the PDP functions to which he was invited. He was at the two National Conventions of the party and North-West zonal meetings to which he was invited.”
The source made caricature of the allegation that the former vice president, Arc Namadi Sambo is sponsoring Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN's presidential ambition, said "this is diversionary and high-level mischief."

Arc Sambo’s Media Adviser, Umar Sani, said: “We don't join issue with mischief makers who has no work to do but to peddle rumour. Sambo has not corruption charges and will not defect to the APC nor leave the PDP under any guise."

As a Peace advocat,a former Bank Executive, Governor, Legislator, Party leader and now Presidential Aspirant.


We can say he has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities:

**He is a man of peace**

**He had a powerful presence and disarmed enemies with his charming smiles**

**He showed Nigerians over times what UNITY looks like**

**He has been a positive thinker about how great Nigeria could be if major sectors of the socio economic and political environment are restructured**

**He is a visionary leader that could see the bigger picture(PDP was considered gone but today is the most credible party for Nigerians)**

**He is focused on goals and a mission beyond himself**

**He had remarkable endurance**

**He showed grit and determination**

**He is humble**

**He is full of hope, not hate**

**He is patient**


We presents Distinguished Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, Nigerian biggest Unifier.

#VoteMakarfi4President2019


Signed:

Office of the
National Leader
Nigeria Youth Project (NYP)
www.nyp.com.ng

As a former Peace advocate, Bank Executive, Governor, Legislator ,Party leader and now Presidential Aspirant.


We could say he has demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities:

**He is a man of peace**

**He had a powerful presence and disarmed enemies with his charming smiles**

**He showed Nigerians over times what UNITY looks like**

**He has been a positive thinker about how great Nigeria could be if major sectors of the socio economic and political environment are restructured**

**He is a visionary leader that could see the bigger picture(PDP was considered gone but today is the most credible party for Nigerians)**

**He is focused on goals and a mission beyond himself**

**He had remarkable endurance**

**He showed grit and determination**

**He is humble**

**He is full of hope, not hate**

**He is patient**


We presents Distinguished Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi ,Nigerian biggest Unifier.

#VoteMakarfi4President2019


Sigbed:

Office of the
National Leader
Nigeria Youth Project (NYP)
www.nyp.com.ng

Nigeria's fate beyond 2019 hangs on INEC, security ― Makarfi


THE immediate past National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi has said that Nigeria’s fate hangs on how the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies conduct the 2019 general elections.
The former Kaduna State governor made the assertion during an interactive session with newsmen in Kaduna on Monday.

Makarfi who was also a two-time Senator scored both INEC and security agencies low in their performances noted that their conducts could make or mar Nigeria before, during and after the elections.

This he said could spell doom for the Nigerian nation as the action or inaction of these two agencies could threaten Nigeria’s peace and survival.

According to him: “I was shocked when I saw the news in an online medium that the 2019 elections may be postponed, but thank God, I later saw INEC coming out to deny making such pronouncement. Notwithstanding, that was the most dangerous news I ever read, that was very reckless.

“You see, the interest of Nigeria is larger than the interest of any of us. How we conduct the election and how we manage the electoral process will largely determine the fate of Nigeria.

“INEC and the security agencies must know that the fate of this country squarely lies on their shoulders. It is not even about history being kind to them, it is about how they will end up. Therefore, they must conduct free, fair and credible elections.

“When you see some moves like freezing of accounts, monitoring of opposition governors but you’ve never heard where an APC Governor’s account is being frozen. The APC governors may be doing worse, but you never hear that happen to any APC governor and elections are approaching, you don’t hear of APC members, aspirants accounts being frozen. You know something is not right.

According to him, “if you are doing anything to anybody, do it to everybody. Our governors must be left alone to work, our aspirants must be left alone to do their politicking and campaign unmolested like other aspirants.

To this end, the PDP chieftain remarked, “So, for me, I think INEC and security agencies have a lot to do and so far, I am not impressed, but they must remember that the fate of Nigeria lies squarely on their shoulders. PDP and other political parties will do what is right.

He also counselled the ruling party not to be carried away with the comfort of power, saying, “I am cautioning APC, they should not be smiling and grinning, we must never burst this bubble.

“They should not be carried away by the comfort of power, and think that they are immune from calamity. We are all not immune from calamity; nobody knows when calamity will come. We all have a stake, we all have responsibility, be you PDP, APC or any other political party and especially INEC and security agencies and other agencies that are used to muscle down the opposition, they must remember that the country comes first, not any government or political party.

PDP 2019:Kaduna Gubernatorial,who shall fly the PDP ticket??


By Kaduna Youth Project 2019(KYP2019)

Supporters of Mohammad Sani Sidi should ensure that the PDP wouldn't allow this golden opportunity of having an endowed personality with enough socio economic and political muscles to missed the gubernatorial ticket of the PDP in Kaduna.

If PDP supporters miss it , it will be unfortunate for the state as MSS is highly qualify along other aspirants for the governorship position in Kaduna.


The leadership of the PDP should not feel or think just anybody can win 2019 governorship election in Kaduna. It will be a grievous mistake and indeed an irredeemable one, if the party elders decides to favour a single person outside allowing internal democracy to produce the candidate of her choice.

If elections are conducted today ,it's possible MSS will emerge victorious due to the large good wills he enjoyed within and outside the party.

The PDP need a candidate, with capacity that can deliver the goods to the people in Kaduna.

Therefore, PDP must think , act well and get it right. As failure to pick aspirant with capacity as her gubernatorial candidate the consequences will be much.

***KADUNA 2019:EX-DG NEMA, THE MAN FOR SIR KASHIM HOUSE.

Voice of Kaduna Youth Project 2019(KYP-2019)


The political atmosphere in Kaduna State has assumed a new dimension since Mohammad Sani Sidi (MSS) began to make overt moves towards his predictable ambition to govern the state.

This has sent jitters across board, especially in the major camps of Hunkuyi, Ashiru, Kish, Maina Zazzau, Mikati and Yero. Since he launched into the political landscape MSS's profile has continued on upswing, boosted by his unprecedented landmark achievements on all fronts. His profile has become so intimidating and very impressive that it will take the uninitiated in the polity to know exactly where he is coming from.

Most stakeholders have been rooting for this man of sound economic muscles because of the goodwills he enjoyed across the State, Country and the rest of the world. He is strong enough to beat the Elrufai failed administration and restore peace and harmony in Kaduna.

MSS silent achievements, unassuming intelligence and administrative prowess are indeed good collateral for the electorates of Kaduna.

Soon, I see a collection of stakeholders coming together to settle for MSS given the heroic moves he made to Birnin Gwari. Much to the amazements and endorsement of Sen Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi as the Presidential flagbearer by the PDP in Kaduna will also see to MSS endorsement.


It is said that, the fear of MSS as the next governor of the state is the beginning of wisdom for every other contestant, including the incumbent, who despite all the shenanigans and grandstanding has been pulling here and there to ruffle MSS.

All permutations point in one positive direction for the undisputable widely-acclaimed man of the moment in the entire Kaduna state. Many of the big wigs of the party have come to a consensus about his candidacy and eventual election as the next occupant of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House Kaduna.

Permit us to break this good news first.

2019: Sani Sidi heroic visits to Birnin Gwari


By Bobai Victor Mathew

"A hero is no brave than an ordinary man, but he is brave five minutes longer" -Ralph Weldo Emerson

The above definition clearly defines Sani Sidi, gubernatorial hopeful. He displays braveness in plying the Birnin Gwari road which is marred with insecurity by unknown gunmen and kidnappers. Many lives were lost on Birnin Gwari road and many families rendered homeless in Birnin Gwari.

The atrocities in Birnin Gwari by these hoodlum have made Birnin Gwari a no go area. Recently motorists and travelers who usually ply the Birnin Gwari road have changed their route because of the insecurity on that road and Birnin Gwari at large.

Yesterday , Wednesday 12th September, 2018, Mohammad Sani Sidi (OFR), the former Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and gubernatorial hopeful of the PDP visited Brinin Gwari amidst the insecurity, despite warning from love ones,political associates not to go to Brinin Gwari because of the situation that characterize recent happenings on that road.

Only a brave, bold and fearless man could do what Mohammad Sani Sidi did. This display of fearlessness and boldness can only be liken to heroism.

Sani demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities:

As a man of peace.
His appearance clearly Show's a powerful presence and disarmed enemies with this heroic act .

He showed the Birnin Gwari people how much he cares and what true leadership looks like.

He was positive, thinking about what the people were subjected to due to bad administration.
Sani is a visionary leader and could see the big picture by direct assessment.
Sani visits clearly focused on goals and a mission beyond himself.
He showed grit and determination.
He is indeed a humble leader PDP must trust with her guber mandate.
Ntando Mbatha and Skip Prichard


I could see how the people of Brinin Gwari were amazed as to seeing him in their midst without being accompanied by heavy security agents as it is the routine of some aspirants whenever they're embarking on such visit.

They described this singular act as heroism, that it's only one who is fearless and patriotic that could take this risk.

The people were happy because Sidi has sacrificed his life to come and commiserate with them over their lost. And because he is the only one that took the risk to come and commiserate with them among all the gubernatorial aspirants, they tag him as a hero and assured him of their votes and prayers.

Makarfi calls on the actors on the political stages and Nigerians not to take INEC statement lightly.
 
The report that the Independent National Electoral Commission Chairman (INEC), has hinted at the possibility of postponing the 2019 general elections on account of threats of violence must have come to not a few Nigerians as the shocker of the year, not only because the Commission had hitherto been giving assurances of its readiness for the polls but also because of the significance and crucial nature of the elections to the development of democracy in the country and its continued peaceful coexistence.
 
Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi has been appalled by the news and had actually been expecting either a rebuttal or at least a clarification by the Commission, neither of which has, so far happened.
 
Senator Makarfi believes that even the idea of putting off the election, for whatever reason, is condemnable, because it toys not only with the feelings and aspirations of Nigerians but also the survival of the democratic dispensation. That, coming from the body that is constitutionally saddled with the responsibility of organizing and conducting the elections makes it more alarming, for it point towards a reluctance, lack of capacity or complicity, or all, to thwart Nigeria’s march towards an enduring democracy. It clearly does not inspire confidence that those in charge are prepared to midwife free, fair and credible polls.
 
It is Senator Makarfi’s conviction that the most important thing it takes for the elections to take place successfully is for the electoral body and the security agencies to play their part with utmost neutrality and objectivity that would inspire the confidence of all. The success of the polls depends largely on them and thus the fate of the country is in their hands. They must therefore stop daydreaming and wake up to the challenges facing the country and their own roles in confronting the challenges.
 
Senator Makarfi calls on the actors on the political stage as well as all Nigerians not to take the INEC statement lightly but remain vigilant, calm and peaceful, and do all it legitimately takes, to protect and preserve Nigeria and its democracy, eschewing violence, no matter the provocation.
 
 
Sgd
 
Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo

Sidi moves to further gubernatorial ambition in Kaduna

A leading Gubernatorial aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State and a former Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mohammed Sani Sidi, OFR has submitted his nomination form to the national headquarters of the party in Abuja.

While addressing supporters and party members shortly after submitting the form, Sidi reiterated his commitment to run a decent campaign devoid of hate and urged other aspirants to do the same.

"I pledge to run a fair and robust campaign devoid of hate, character assassination or any act that will heat-up the polity. I expect such from all my co-aspirants as well. It is my firm belief that we need to, as aspirants, work hand-in-hand for the progress of our dear Party and well-being of our State"; Sidi said.

Sidi declared to support any candidate that emerge in the forthcoming party primaries in case he did not emerge as the flagbearer of the party.

He said, "in as much as I expect to emerge winner at our Party’s Gubernatorial Primary Election; I shall accept the outcome of the Primaries if it turns out contrary to my expectation, and render my support to whosoever emerges winner for the common good of our Party and the people of Kaduna State".

Sani Sidi was accompanied by the Chairman of the Sani Sidi Campaign Organisation and a former Commissioner of information, Alhaji Rabiu Bako, a former member of the National Assembly, Hon Jonathan Asake, a former State Secretary of the party in Kaduna State, Alhaji Kabiru Ballah, the State Women Leader of the party, Mrs Comfort Amwe among several other party stalwarts and supporters.

Makarfi,Atiku say leadership must change to save nation


Ahmed Makarfi
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar and ex-Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caretaker Committee, Senator Ahmed Makarfi have said Nigeria’s leadership must be changed in 2019 for the nation to move forward.

Atiku, a presidential aspirant on the platform of PDP lamented the socio-economic woes facing Nigeria, when he paid a courtesy visit to the Kaduna residence of the former governor and his counterpart in the Presidential race, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, as part of consultation on his presidential ambition.

Atiku commended Makarfi for steering the party through a turbulent period, when he held sway as the party national caretaker committee chairman.

He said Makarfi’s prowess in leading the party out of the woods showed he has great potentials as a leader, which is why it is necessary for PDP stakeholders to come together to sustain the nation’s democracy.

He noted that Nigeria is currently at crossroads, and there was need for Presidential aspirants and well-meaning Nigerians to rescue the country from insecurity and poverty ravaging the land.

He said: “The misadministration of APC government is very evident. We have the highest record of unemployment since 1999.

We have the highest inflation and multiple exchange rates that discourage foreign investment. We have the highest level of insecurity since 1999.

“This is unthinkable in a country that is endowed with human and natural resources like ours. And all because of lack of clear headed leadership and direction.

So, it is obvious that we just have to change the leadership of this country.”

Responding, Makarfi reminded Atiku of their various struggles working for PDP in the past, noting that Atiku “is capable and qualified to lead the party.”

Senator Makarfi said he has nothing to lose, if Atiku picks PDP’s presidential ticket.

IBB's 3 months is better than your 3 years administration - Hon Kadade replied Osibanjo

Say's IBB is the best president Nigeria ever had.

Hon. Kadade Muhd Suleiman is a strong member of Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) in Kaduna State and amongst the gubernatorial aspirants but stepped down a week ago replied Prof Yemi Osibanjo by saying "IBB's 3 months is better than Buhari's 3 years administration".
He added that IBB took power in 1985 due to hardship and frustration in the country under Buhari.

Osinbajo who was answering questions from Nigerians at a town hall meeting in Minnesota, United States last Sunday, had spoken on how huge funds went down the drain in previous administrations, which earned much and invested little in infrastructure. On OPEC statistics on oil revenues accruable to Nigeria under successive administrations between 1990 and 2014, the Vice President said not much had been done in terms of infrastructure, despite the huge oil revenues.

He said: “Under the IBB / Abacha administrations (1990 – 1998) Nigeria realised$199.8 billion; under the Obasanjo / Yar’Adua governments (1999 – 2009), the country got $401.1 billion; and during the Jonathan administration (2010 – 2014), Nigeria got $381.9 billion from oil revenues.

"The question that we must all ask is, what exactly happened to resources? The question that I asked is that where is the infrastructure?”.

Hon. Kadade said " The Vice President should respect his self and always put it at the back of his mind that General IBB is not a propagandist, he's a man of his words and the world respect him because of his style of leadership. Comparing the present administration with that of IBB and Abacha is a waste of time. It's like telling a snail to race with a rabbit.
General IBB left a lot of legacies which the country is still proud of and will forever be proud of.
This man constructed Central Bank Headquarters Abuja, Built the Presidential Villa where Buhari sleeps now, he built the Headquarters of Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria Abuja ad it branches Nationwide, dualization of Warri-Benin road, dualization of Abuja-Kano road, rehabilitation of Pampam-Panshin Langtong road, Plateau State
He created 200 Local Government Areas, he established a security reform which curved out from National Security Organization (NSO) the following; National Intelligence Agency, State Security Service and Defence Intelligence Agency.
This strong man also reconstructed NNPC into corporate Headquarters with three Fuctional Divisions and twelve subsidiaries such as ; NPDC, IDSL, WRPC, KRPC, PHRC, NGDC, EPCL, ECNL, NLNG, Calson (Bermud) , Hyson Nigeria Limited".

Hon. Kadade also said "IBB did not make noise but acted and performed well because we still benefit from his thousands projects.
Under his administration, he constructed Toll Plaza Nationwide for Revenue, he built NNPC Staff quarters in Abuja, he introduced Primary Health Care. He also constructed many dams across Nigeria; Kafin Zaki dam, Challawa dam in Kano , Padom dam in Plateau and Shiroro hydroelectric dam in Niger state".

Hon. Kadade also added that IBB constructed National Assembly complex Abuja, House of Assembly complex for each States created in 1991, Secretariat Building for each of the States created in 1991.
So the Vice President should stop mocking his boss Buhari and face his job because IBB did all these without complaining to Nigerians. You came into power with propaganda so you can not continue with it because Nigerians are intelligent.

BREAKING: Sen. Makarfi hosts Atiku in Kaduna


Presidential Frontliner of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, today received fellow contender, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar at his kaduna guest house.

The guest who arrived Makarfi’s residence alongside his entourage at about 11am, immediately went into a closed door meeting that lasted about 15 minutes before addressing the press.

“We are here today with a man who rebuilt the PDP we are all out to run. I stand to reaffirm to you that Makarfi succeeded in uniting our party and strengthening our nation’s democracy” Atiku said.

Atiku also said, “Makarfi and I were colleagues in 1999 as governors, now we are running for President alongside other aspirants. I believe we are all committed towards making Nigeria work for good and I shall support whoever fly’s the PDP flag”

Chief Gbanga Daniel, Who accompanied Alhaji Atiku described Sen. Makarfi as a “leader of leaders” who doggedness saw the reform and rebirth of the PDP in Nigeria.

Makarfi, in his reply humbled by the visit and further tasked aspirants to support whoever emerges as candidate.

“We must collectively work for the success of the party and must not take our ambitions as do or die” Makarfi added.

APC , a drowning party, says Makarfi

Former governor of Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has described the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a drowning party.

Makarfi, a presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said last Thursday’s attack on the National Secretariat of PDP by suspected members of the APC was an attempt to intimidate PDP members.

He said: “This has never happened before for a party to leave its domain (and) go to another party’s headquarters and do what they did.

But no matter how they try, they will not succeed.

“Intimidation will not work, we know the APC is left with no option other than intimidation. When you are losing whatever you see you grab, a drowning man.”

Makarfi promised to establish education trust fund if elected president next year. “Our children must never leave school because of financial difficulties. So, we must introduce students soft loan, where students facing financial difficulties can borrow and they will only pay when they are permanently and gainfully employed. This will force the government to create job opportunities for our teeming youths so they can get the money refunded,” he stated.

He decried the spate of insecurity in the country, adding that Nigeria needed to be secured to create employment. He said: “We must restore sanity, and stop these killings. It is not possible for these killings to be going on, without one collusion or the other.

The collusion can be from anybody, but there is no way that with the things are going that there is not one collusion or the other. “If I happen to be nominated and elected, I have the history to restore peace in Kaduna and that will also be replicated throughout the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is not theory, but practical because I have done it before.”

Commenting, the former National Organising Secretary of PDP National Caretaker Committee, Senator Abdul Ningi, who is vying for the governorship of Bauchi State, said the state requires experience to move forward.

According to him, Bauchi State has become like a cursed state in the last three years, adding that if things continue to be the way they are that the state would be worse. He said: “I see this as my obligation and my resolve to ensure that Bauchi story changes. I want to add value to the state and make sure it become one of the front line states in terms of development.”

Similarly, a former Minister of Information, Senator Patricia Akwashiki, a governorship aspirant for Nasarawa State, pledged to fight poverty, diversify the economy of the state as well as exploit the advantages of the state’s proximity to the federal capital and ensure the Internally Generated Revenue of the State (IGR) improves.

I’ll stop ‘senseless’ killings – Makarfi


A former governor of Kaduna State and presidential aspirant on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. Ahmed Makarfi, has assured that he would stop the senseless killings and ensure restructuring of the country if elected.
Makarfi, who submitted the expression of interest and nomination forms at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja yesterday, said the continuous killings in the country showed that there was some level of collusion at different levels of operation.
“Nigeria needs to be restructured and PDP as a party has made it a policy. When I was chairman of the PDP, I addressed a world press conference to state our policy, and every party man and woman has not deviated from this policy principle. We believe Nigeria needs to be restructured in the interest of us all.
“Nigeria needs to be secure, there is too much blood-letting in this country today. We must restore sanity and stop the killings. It is not possible for these killings to be going on without one collusion or the other. The collusion can be from anywhere. If I happen to be nominated and elected, I have a history to have restored peace in Kaduna, that will also be replicated in the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is not theory, but practical because I have done it before,” he said.
Makarfi added that he would abide by the outcome of the PDP primaries and work for the party to reclaim power in 2019.
Other aspirants who returned their forms for submission were a former National Organizing Secretary of the party, Sen. Abdul Ningi who is in the Bauchi State governorship race and Sen. Patricia A. who is contesting the Nasarawa State governorship.

We believe in restructuring in the interest of all – Makarfi

Former governor of Kaduna state and Presidential aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi has urged the party to realize that it is up against the antics of “Drowning men,” as the preparations for the 2019 elections intensify.

Senator Ahmed Makarfi
Makarfi who was at the party secretariat Friday to submit his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to seek the ticket of the PDP to contest the 2019 Presidential election was reacting to Thursday fracas involving supporters of the PDP and the ruling party.

The Presidential hopeful tasked party delegates to prioritise experience and competence for the job in determining who picks the ticket, stressing that as governor of Kaduna state, he tackled the security challenges and restored normalcy across all parts of the state. He promised to replicate the feat if given the mandate to preside over the affairs of the nation as President.

“If you give a drowning man a sword, he will hold on to it. We are dealing with drowning men and we should understand and see them as such. We must never loss focus to wrest power from the APC. They may use whatever they want to use, but let use our brains.

“I will begin by sympathizing with PDP men and women on the attack on democracy yesterday, when we were assaulted by the APC thugs. This has never happened before, for a party to leave its domain to another party’s headquarters and do what they did.

“But no matter how they try, they will not succeed. Intimidation will not work because we know the APC is left with no option other than intimidation. When you are losing, whatever you see, you grab,” he said.

The former chairman, National Caretaker Committee of the PDP also took a swipe at the ruling party, saying “Up till now, they are still quarrelling over what type of primary to hold.”

That said, Makarfi moved on to clarify the mileage of his aspiration and what sets him apart from the rest of other aspirants.

“It is important for me to say that I am qualified, like every other aspirant. There is none of us that has indicated interest that is not qualified. Though all fingers are useful, they are equally not equal. There is no finger that is not useful, but there is no finger that is equal to another.

“I want to believe that when the needful is done, party men and women will decide wisely. And whatever the delegates decide, as a loyal party man, I will accept the result. I will work for the interest of the party, to make sure that we return to power,” he added

Makarfi further reiterated his commitment to restructuring just as he emphasized the need to secure the nation and her citizens.

“We believe in restructuring in the interest of all. Nigeria needs to be secured as there is too much bloodletting in the country today. We must restore sanity, and stop these killings,” he noted, adding that “It is not possible for these killings to be going on, without one form of collusion or the other.”

Why Nigerians should vote for me

“If I happened to be nominated and elected, as I have history to have restored peace in Kaduna, that will also be replicated across the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is not theory, but practical because we have done it before.

“I have spoken on the policy that our children must never leave school because of financial difficulties. We will introduce students’ soft loan, where students facing financial difficulties can borrow and they will only pay when they are permanently and gainfully employed.

“This will force the government to create job opportunities for our teeming youths so they can get the money refunded.

“I have also spoken on power generation. We are running a unitary system, where whatever is generated is domiciled in one place and then redistributed. When you are generating, you lose power, when you are distributing, you lose power anytime.

Collusion behind festering herdsmen killings ― Makarfi


Senator Ahmed Makarfi National leader of the PDP.
FORMER Chairman of the defunct National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has alleged that the killings in the country attributed to herdsmen had festered because of collision by some individuals.

He said he would bring the menace to an end if he gets the presidential ticket of the PDP and elected president.

The former Kaduna state governor, who was at the national secretariat of the party Abuja on Friday to submit his completed expression of interest and nomination forms, said he would replicate, in the country, what he did as Kaduna governor to restore peace after a series of deadly communal clashes in the state.

He said: “Nigeria needs to be secure, there is too much bloodletting in this country today. We must restore sanity, and stop this killing.

“It is not possible for this killings to be going on without one collision or the other. The collision can be from anybody, but there is no way that with the way things are going that there is not one collusion or the other.

“If I happen to be nominated and elected, I have history to have restored peace in Kaduna, that will also be replicated in the length and breadth of Nigeria. This is not theory, but practical because have done it before.”

Makarfi condemned the attempt by suspected All Progressive Congress (APC) thugs to disrupt proceedings at the national secretariat of the PDP on Thursday, saying that it was the handiwork of a drowning party.

He said the APC was left with no choice but to intimidate but he advised the former ruling party not to lose focus.

The former party boss stated: “I will begin by sympathising with you, both PDP women and women on the attack on democracy on what happened yesterday, when we were assaulted by the APC thugs.

This has never happened before, for a party to leave it’s domain go to another party’s headquarters and do what they did. But no matter how they try, they will not succeed.

Intimidation will not work.

“We know the APC are left with no option other than intimidation.

“When you are losing whatever you see you grab. A drowning man, if you give him a sword he will hold it. So, we are dealing with drowning men, we should understand and see them as such.

“We must never lose focus to wrestle power from the APC. They may use whatever they want to use, but let use our brains.”

Makarfi promised that if given the opportunity, he would also introduce soft loans for students, improve power infrastructure and create jobs for the youths among other initiatives.

Meanwhile, former National Organising Secretary of the PDP, Senator Abdul Ningi, yesterday submitted his nomination forms to contest the governorship election in Bauchi State, vowing to rescue the state.

Ningi, who is a four-term member of the National Assembly, said he would turn around the appalling conditions in the state which he blamed on the current APC government.

He said: “The state (Bauchi) has derailed especially in the last three and half years. Bauchi has become like a cursed state and if things continue to be the way they are, in the next couple of years, I don’t know how we are going to describe Bauchi,” he said.

Ningi said he had the “obligation and resolve to ensure that Bauchi story changes. I want to add value to the state and make sure it becomes one of the frontline states in terms of development.”

Also submitting her forms on Friday to contest the Nasarawa state gubernatorial post, former acting Minister of Information, Prof. Patricia Akwashiki, expressed confidence that she would emerge the first elected female governor in the country, saying that she would utilise the state’s proximity to Abuja to improve its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Also speaking after the submission of his forms, Kwamkur Vondip, who is bidding to replace Senator Jerry Useni as the senator representing.Plateau South Senatorial District.

PDP most present candidate Who is sincere,credible & integrity to Match PMB – Makarfi

Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi is the immediate past chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a presidential aspirant on the platform of the party.

the former governor of Kaduna state states that the PDP must present a candidate who is sincere, credible and with integrity to match President Buhari in the 2019 election.

He also spoke on other issues. What informed your decision to vie for the office of the President? It’s not a new thing. I was in the race in 2007, a front runner for that matter.

I was a Senator for some time. So it’s not something that happen overnight or opportunistic attitude of mine because I was the immediate past national chairman of the party, which automatically should give me the right to contest.

No. Of course I have a record as governor where I did relatively well in terms of dealing with security challenges and creating harmony between different ethnic groups.

I did well in dealing with people of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds in terms of rural and urban transformation, in terms of running a government that was fair and equitable to all, in terms of being democratic and running an open-door policy.

I was also in the legislative arm for eight years and lastly, the position of managing a political party.

I don’t think there is any aspirant that has the combination of all these issues.
But it still doesn’t give me the right to ask for automatic ticket, there are equally competent aspirants. So we will do the needful and see what the outcome will be.

What is going to make your aspiration unique from others?

What is unique is that whatever experiences others might have, none had the experience of managing a political party like myself.

It wasn’t just managing it but doing it at the times of crises.
It was the success we recorded in managing it that made it a beautiful bride today.
Yes it was a collective responsibility but you can’t take away the fact that I was the head of it.

Prominent party members have also indicated interest in the presidency.

What strategy are you going to use to win the primaries?

The choice is really left for the delegates but they should remember that it doesn’t end with just choosing a candidate. The issue is about winning elections.

Whether presidency, governorship or any elective office, if you don’t make the best choice that will resonates with the voters, no matter how qualified the person might be, the person might find it difficult to get elected.

Our party men and women must remember this. It doesn’t end with just wining the primaries. The main job is winning elections.

The voters will analyse all the candidates and if we as a party do not put ourselves in the position of the voters, we might get it wrong.
The primaries is not the end of it, but we are talking and still analysing the situation.

We know power comes from God but we also make choices, we shouldn’t be blaming God when things go wrong.

We need to look at the experiences of each candidate and come up with a candidate that is well respected by the voters.

When you look at each candidate, you must find one or two faults but the issue is that it should be as minimum as possible so that you don’t run into what will give you far more problem than you can contend with before the elections and we will end up creating a situation where we will be dealing with internal issues instead of facing the election proper.

Some people that once abandoned your party are now back and are aspiring for the same position.

What is your take on this?

First of all, it is their constitutional rights and party constitution allows for that. Ultimately, the party men and women will have to make a choice.

They should reflect very well before making that choice. The PDP has been out of power for over 3 years now,

what are the chances of the party in the forthcoming general elections?

It all depend on what we do or who we present.

I don’t belong to the group which believes that whichever candidate we present, we will win. It’s not possible.

If you present something exciting to voters, it will make it easier for us to win. Of course we need money to go through the electoral process, you cannot rule out the issue of money but it is not the quantum of money that will make us win.

If it is the issue of money, we cannot match the incumbent, then we will just sit back because we cannot match the incumbent.

I think we should dwell more on credibility and integrity in every sense of the word so that when voters look at your candidate, they will say he has integrity, is sincere and is credible.

These are the issues we should put upfront and show voters. It will make it easier for us to win. Some have advise the PDP to bring out a consensus candidate.

Do you subscribe to the idea?

Consensus if agreeable to all is democratic but it still has to go through a convention so that delegates vote for the name you arrived at.

For me, I will not go against anything that is generally acceptable to party men and women. But still, the Electoral Act and party constitution will have to be adhered to. The PDP has gone into alliance with other opposition parties.

Are they going to bring out their own flag bearers or they will adopt the PDP candidate?

We are bringing out our own candidate and other parties might bring out theirs.

Even when they bring out their candidate, they might come and endorse a single candidate from any other party. I don’t have the details and specifics on the alliance.

If you were asked to list the criteria for the type of candidate that should fly the PDP flat at the presidential election, what will they be? I only know of myself.

As far back as 2007, I contested the primaries and I did very well based on my performance as governor.

If people consider that in 2007, then the situation now will be better because I have acquired legislative experience, I have resuscitate a party that all hopes were almost lost that it will ever be resuscitated.

Still on the PDP, there are insinuations that the party is in the pocket of Governor Wike.

How true is this assertion?

I have worked with him, he is a very committed party individual.

There are many other party men and women, who contributed in different ways to making the party what is it today. PDP should be happy that we have him.

But the issue is that, it is the party men and women that will make a final decision on what happens in the party, not an individual.

He may have his preference and if his preference is what party men and women adjudged to be the best for the party, then so be it.

But if they don’t like it and people become passive, and then it manifest itself, all of us will pay the price for that.

Unilaterally, he has never attempt to say he will take a unilateral decision on behalf of everybody.

No matter where the idea is coming from, whether it’s from him or any other governor or leader in the party, it is discussed and analysed to ensure it is the best way to go forward.

The PDP had high hopes during the last Ekiti governorship election, yet it lost to the APC.

What is going to make Osun election different?

I believe we won the election in Ekiti. But what has happened has happened.

I hope the judiciary will do the right thing. We should also learn something from it. It would have been much easier for us if we had ensure that disaffection was settled within the party.

When we are united we are much stronger and can face the onslaught that the authorities will released on us but when we are divided, it is easy for authorities to come in and make nonsense of what we are doing.

Talking about defection, were you surprised when Senator Akpabio defected to the APC?

Yes and no, but I won’t say anything for now.

Are you worried about Nigeria’s debt profile?

I share the concern that people raised but government have been using that method for long, not just this government but successive governments in authority do take loan especially when they compere and see that our debt to GDP ratio is low. So we can borrow more money. The issue is that, when you borrow,

what are you using the funds for?

Are you consuming or you are using the funds in areas that will directly or indirectly generate profit that can help you repay the loan?

How sustainable is your debt service?

How is your revenue growth per capital?

So there are a lot of other factors to look and if it is not not positive, then you are better off not borrowing.

MY WITHDRAWAL FROM THE GUBERNATORIAL RACE IN KADUNA STATE,HON MUHAMMED KADADE.


Brothers and sisters, fellow Kadalites. The first time I expressed my intent to vie for the highest office in the state, it came with alot of speculations and pessimism from the part of the people.

But as we progressed and the people realised in my aspiration a clear vision of making Kaduna State the bastion of excellence it ought to be, pessimism was converted to hope.

We got nothing but love and encouragement from the populace of Kaduna state especially my OWN PEOPLE; THE YOUTHS and I want to use this medium to offer my wholehearted appreciation to all that supported our course.

With your support, we have done what has never been done in the history of Kaduna State, a person as young as I am vying for the highest public office of the State in one of the major political parties, we've indeed made history!

As we all know, the PDP in its quest towards reclaiming our dear state and setting it on a path of developmental rejuvenance has adopted the consensus system on choosing the flag bearer of the party in state’s gubernatorial race. Synergistically, I embarked on wide consultations with my electorates, elders of our party and relevant stakeholders who all opined that I humbly withdraw from the race and step down for the more experienced politicians in the race who can effectively compete against the incumbent government.

Owing to this fact therefore, I hereby sadly but humbly announce to you my withdrawal from the gubernatorial race of Kaduna State. This was not what we wanted, but given the current debilitating situation our state has find itself in, I think it is best that we sacrifice whatever it takes for the “Change the Change” agenda to prevail even if it means suspending our aspiration for now.

I believe Allah is in control of everything and He does what He wills at anytime He wishes. We believe He has plans for us so we submissively offer ourselves to him for He knows best.

However, we shall remain focused and resolute, nothing shall intimidate us as we will remain actively in the political process. Nothing shall deter our quest towards liberating our dear state from the hands of oppressors.

Lastly, I want to pledge my undying loyalty to our great party PDP, we are still in it and we shall remain in it. I once again apologize to all my supporters, this is not the end but the beginning of the struggle. We will never let you down!

God bless You all!

Hon. Muhammed Kadade Suleiman
Santurakin Nasarawan Doya

Makarfi promises to abide by result of PDP presidential primary


The presidential aspirant of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has said if he doesn’t emerge as the party’s candidate for the 2019 election, he would accept it in good faith.

The former Kaduna state governor in an interview with select journalists in Kaduna, said if he leaves PDP, he would politically go into semi retirement and not seek positions again.

He said: “Whatever will be the outcome of the presidential primary, I will accept it in good faith; whether I emerge as the candidate or not. I mean whatever is the outcome; I will accept it in good faith.

“Anyway, I can contribute to the success of the party, what I can do, I will do, but the question is, will I leave the party and go to another party?

“I have said it repeatedly that if I leave PDP, I will politically go into semi retirement, by semi retirement, it means that you won’t find me contesting for elective office.

“I may still be a political player, playing whatever role that I could play, but at my age if I don’t get nominated now, you can imagine what my age will be at another chance.”

On defections from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP, Makarfi said he had long predicted these defections many months back.

Edwin Clark: What Makarfi said about police

Former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Caretaker Committee Chairman, Ahmed Makarfi has condemned the raid on the Abuja residence of former Federal Commissioner for Information, Edwin Clark.

Makarfi, a PDP Presidential aspirant described the raid by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force as an evidence that the country was turning into “abyss and police state.”

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Muktar Sirajo, on Wednesday, the former Kaduna State governor said the assault on Clark was callous.

“It was clearly an attempt to intimidate and cow as well as stifle contrary opinion in clear violation of our constitution and international conventions, as we approach the 2019 elections,” he said.

sympathizing with Clark over the assault, Makarfi called on, “Nigerians to be vigilant and resist attempts at constricting our democratic space and fundamental human rights, (mis)using agencies of the state.”

“Even though the Police authorities have sought to distance themselves from this show of shame, they should go beyond ordinary disclaimer by instituting a genuine investigation into this with a view to unravelling the sordid act as well as bringing perpetrators to justice,” he added.

*BREAKING NEWS*

Victor Bobai Mathew just confirmed to our reporters that he has resigned his position as the Chairman of Advanced Democratic People's Alliance (APDA), Kaduna State.

"This decision was taken after consultations with major stakeholders to move to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)," he said.

He further expressed his gratitude to all his supporters and followers for their support which has helped him immensely to be able to steer the party effectively to this day.

Signed:
Victor Bobai Mathew

*BREAKING NEWS*

Victor Bobai Mathew just confirmed to our reporters that he has resigned his position as the Chairman of Advanced Democratic People's Alliance (APDA), Kaduna State.

"This decision was taken after consultations with major stakeholders to move to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)," he said.

He further expressed his gratitude to all his supporters and followers for their support which has helped him immensely to be able to steer the party effectively to this day.

Signed:
Victor Bobai Mathew

I won’t run again if I lose presidential ticket – Makarfi

Former Kaduna State Governor and Presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, in this interview with select journalists in Kaduna said he can’t leave PDP even if he fails to get presidential ticket. He said he will go into semi retirement and not seek positions again. Abdulgafar Alabelewe was there.

There has been gale of defections from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to your party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). How do you feel now?

I have long predicted these defections many months back. When we were going through difficulties and people were losing hopes, and I was asked similar question as far back as last year (2017), my reply was that the time for defection from APC and other parties to the PDP will be coming and it happened. I predicted it correctly and I am not surprised. Personally, I feel happy that it has taken place. It is also not the end of it (defection). We have seen the first wave and we expect more defections to follow, especially because of the reaction of the APC and its government. Some (defectors) will buy their time and do it at a later day. You know, it happened to us in the PDP. It happened to one and it will happen to the other. It is a matter of time. Personally, I am happy that we are getting returnees back and getting new party members, especially new people that have never been in the PDP before and the party should be prepared for a lot more to come in. Of course, every positive thing comes with challenges. The challenge will be integrating all the party men and women (the returnees and those they met in the party). But I am equally happy that the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party has set up machinery which has been working day and night to bring a smooth integration and harmonization of interests of party men and women in states that are more heavily affected by the defection. That is how politics is played – constructive engagement and that constructive engagement is still going on and I believe at the end of the day, people will accommodate each other in the overall interest of the party.

Talking about defectors, harmonization and integration of returnees is ongoing, how has it being, especially as one of them is already contemplating joining the presidential race?

Well, you see, it depends on the way you look at this particular issue. What I have been made to understand, which is the true position of the party, because I did discuss with the committee on the harmonization and I did discuss with the party leadership; that, where you have a sitting Governor coming into the party with all his apparatus of government, certain parameters of integration were agreed upon to do with the state, it’s not something to do with the nation. You get my point? And where he is a Senator, certain parameters to do with his Senatorial zone were agreed upon, or state assembly or even House of Representatives. But, I think some are misinterpreting this to be wider than what the intended purpose is. Because for example if you are in the House of Representatives, looking for Senate, it does not apply to your ambition for Senate, because it relates to your current position, it does not relate to any other position that you are looking for beyond your current position. And this is worth discussing dialoguing and ironing out issues with all involved.

Even here in Kaduna, later today, I have called for a meeting of key leaders of the party that are around, so that, we can see how politically we can bring about hitch-free integration of returnees into the party without causing any unnecessary disruption that can be counterproductive.

There are many presidential aspirants in the PDP and recently the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Walid Jibrin was talking about bringing all aspirants to a round table to discuss the possibility of a consensus candidate. How do you react to that?

You don’t rule out anything in

PDP getting set to win 2019, says Makarfi


Makarfi
Former Kaduna State governor, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, headed the National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that organised the election of its new leadership last December 9. In this interview with Saxone Akhaine, he spoke on how the PDP is being repositioned to win the 2019 presidential election. Excerpts:

The recent Board of Trustees (BOT) meeting

Actually the meeting that took place was beyond the BOT meeting. The caucus met, the BOT met, the National Executive Committee (NEC) also met. That is the practice for such meetings to hold, and they were well attended.

And essentially, it was the first of such meetings after the election of new national officers of the party. The activities of the relevant organs of the party were reviewed, what they are doing and what they plan to do.

So, the meetings were all right and we are satisfied with what the organs of the party have set out to do and what they have set out to go about.

How true is it that one of the southern governors is working for a particular candidate who may likely undermine the chances of PDP presidential dream?

This is absolutely false. To the best of my knowledge such a thing is not going on. I know that our governors are working together as a forum and they interact with the party. But I am not aware of anything having to do with the issue of candidature for 2019.

Of course, interested people and party members are expressing their interests, and they are going round. Nobody had been encumbered of doing so. The party has been receptive to all those who have shown interest.

So, a level playing field is being created for people to interact as aspirants, not just for the presidential ticket but also for other offices. That is what I know is going on at the moment.

Your supporters in Kaduna are calling on you to contest the presidency. Will you oblige them?

Such clamour is not limited to Kaduna. I know that a number of meetings were reported to have taken place in Kaduna, especially by the Northern groups, including northern states and the FCT.

And there are also other clarion calls in show of solidarity and support has been coming from different quarters of the country. I have been consulting and will continue consult and I will take note of all that is happening.

But, largely, I am a party man and we would see what happens down the line. You cannot rule out any particular thing in respect of any politician. Let us see what the consultation produces.

Transparency International (TI) recently marked Buhari very low on anti corruption crusade in Nigeria? What is your assessment of the situation?

The general impression has been that the APC government is not doing well and it is high time Nigerians voted them out of office. One may not question some of the initial intention or existing intention, but there was a lot of propaganda, which propelled the party into power.

So, there was lack of preparation and division in the government right from day one. And this division has continued to widen. You can see the current effort of dealing with the divisions and bringing reconciliation under Asiwaju Tinubu, who is my good friend and also a leader.

When you are doing reconciliation and you are the one calling for the party leadership to go. Who is now to reconcile you and your party leadership? That is to show you that reconciliation is really impossible basically in that party. And when a party is divided, it can’t even govern.

How will you give a party that is divided the responsibility of governing a country like Nigeria and expect growth and development? It is absolutely impossible.

We went through our crisis, but not that we don’t have other minor problems but how can you compare them with what is simmering in the APC, the ruling party today.

Security in the country has worsened; when we were in power and before we handed over power, largely it was the problem in the Northeast.

However, the problem there today is not over.

**Makarfi: PDP Presidential Hopeful 2019**

Hon. Mbaye Mathew Victor, the National Coordinator of Nigeria Youth Project, has said, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may settle for two consensus Presidential aspirant of which only one will be her candidate, ahead of the 2019 election.

Bobai also said, a consensus candidate may be picked because PDP currently have the most qualify materials capable of returning the country to the path of greatness and reverse the dangerous trend of the present administration.

The Coordinator said; “I am confident that Makarfi will make the first two Aspirants for the presidential primary"

I want to say here that Makarfi has among other qualities the spirit of a Unifier, he has been tested and trusted in all ramifications of human endeavors.

"If Makarfi is picked from North West, all other aspirants from the Northern region will comfortably follow him religiously because he believes that all others are eminently qualified and therefore it's easier to harnessed together and synergy to wrestled power back to Nigerians".

*[2019 PDP Presidential Ticket:*
*North Central / Middle Belt's Too!]*

https://guardian.ng/politics/makarfi-pdp-
will-not-limit-its-presidential-search-to-northwest

*Makarfi: PDP Will Not Limit Its Presidential Search to North West*

*GUARDIAN*
August 2018

*[MAKARFI INTERVIEW: EXCERPT]*

*What is your take on the suggestion by [Senator] Rabiu Kwankwaso that PDP should pick its presidential candidate from North West?*

"That’s his personal view. One can only try to understand what his reason could have been. I have not discussed with him, but he may be thinking that way because of the high voter registration and usual large turn out in the zone. But that is not the party’s position. *The party’s position is that the Presidency be zoned to the 19 Northern States and FCT. So, whomever party men and women find suitable from the zone will be supported. It happened before, when we had a Presidential Candidate coming from a small State and he was widely accepted.*"

(Senator *Ahmed Makarfi*,
former *PDP* National Caretaker Committee Chairman & 2019 Presidential Aspirant)

MENU

TRUMP-PMB: Why I Expect Outpouring Of Outrage Against Trump By All Nigerian  -Mukhtar Sirajo

I honestly don’t understand why any right thinking Nigerian should gloat over what Trump was reported to have described President Buhari as. 

First, Trump is not the type taken seriously by correct thinking ppl across the world, including his own America. 

2ndly, and more importantly,  PMB is the President, and thus the symbol of Nigeria at the moment; so an insult to him by any world leader is an insult to all of us and we must not allow partisan considerations to becloud our sense of nationalism. 

I honestly expect an outpouring of outrage against Trump by all Nigerians, irrespective of political leanings, because despite our political disagreements, we all agree that he is our President and flies our flag wherever he goes. 

Until we send him packing in 2019, he remains our President and symbol of our sovereignty, which makes us duty bound to feel and show outrage against any foreigner, whoever they are, who denigrate or belittles him. 
My take

2019: Namadi Sambo crosses to APC

There is increasing rumour within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna over an alleged plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to use the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to force Arc. Namadi Sambo, the former Vice President to Goodluck Jonathan to dump the PDP.

As facts emerged at the weekend that the former Vice President, has perfected plans to formally defect to the APC. A competent source at the PDP state office in Kaduna said the new plot is to force him to APC with some of the facts with EFCC on corruption. Sometimes back the anti graft agencies stumped his Abuja office and his Kaduna residence in search of incriminating evidence against Sambo.

Although no charges were made but rumour has it that all plans have been concluded for the former Vice president, Arch. Namadi Sambo to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) alongside his followers to the All Progressive Congress (APC).

It is unbecoming of the former vice president who by all standard reaped from the party whose platform he rode to become the governor of Kaduna State and as well afforded him the opportunity of being the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to act as a spoiler to the party and to encourage his followers to serve as moles to the APC.

Our correspondent in Kaduna gathered from a reliable source in Kaduna office of the PDP along NDA (who pleaded anonymous) that the former Vice President is being blackmailed to dump the PDP for APC based on the above mentioned findings, in order for the case to be closed and forget about he has to join the APC.

That was the reason for the ceremonial relationship that now exist between the duo of Namadi and the APC. This is what brought about his decision to betray and be disloyal to the party that brought him to limelight and even make him relevant today in the political history of Nigeria. Because of selfish reason and greed he opted for the APC and found her reliable to push his agenda.

It's not a surprise for his silence in all party's activities since when his boss was dislodged from Aso Rock in 2015. One will not be surprised for the alleged news that his followers are serving as moles to the APC through their body language.

The PDP is hereby advised to beware of the former Vice President and his followers as they may cause damage to the party before leaving, and that may cause the party her presidential fortune in the coming elections.

Asked what the leadership of the party may do if he finally defects, the source said the PDP has put machineries on ground to include not allowing Kaduna delegates to vote any associate of Sambo (Kabiru Turaki and Sani Sidi in the forthcoming gubernatorial and Presidential party nominations)

The source said, although PDP believes it has taken serious measures to monitor Sambo and his boys over plans to sell Kaduna PDP.



For other related News and reactions contact:

Nigerian Trending News(NTN).

Aminu Salim of Nigerian Trending News.
aminusalim75@gmail.com

2019: Senator Makarfi denies eeports on ex-VP Atiku Abubakar

The former National Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and presidential aspirant, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, has denied reports where he was purported to have said that he did not need money to defeat former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who is also a presidential aspirant of the party.

In a statement on Monday in Kaduna, Makarfi said he did not make such statement about Atiku who he said he holds in very high esteem and maintains a cordial and mutually respectful relationship with.

The statement signed by his spokesman, Mukhtar Sirajo, said Makarfi’s “attention has been drawn to some news headlines making the rounds to the effect that he said he didn’t need money to defeat Atiku Abubakar in the quest for PDP presidential nomination.

“We want to categorically state that that could just be an inference drawn by the reporters from the answer the distinguished senator gave to one of their questions during his engagement with them”.

The statement further said: “The question had to do with what they considered his relative disadvantage in a contest that required funding and in which more financially loaded aspirants were involved.

“Makarfi’s answer, which did not mention Atiku’s or anybody’s name was that one did not need to be loaded to lead and went on to cite examples of previous and even current leaders who had no money when leadership beckoned on them.”

The statement emphasised: “For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Makarfi wishes to make it clear that he holds former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar in very high esteem and that the relationship between them is very cordial and mutually respectful.

“Makarfi therefore reiterates this respect for him and all the other aspirants whom he considers as brothers and comrades in the struggle to return Nigeria to a path real democracy and sanity”.

27th August 2018

PRESS STATEMENT


RE: I DONT NEED MONEY TO DEFEAT ATIKU

The attention of Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi has been drawn to some news headlines making the rounds to the effect that he said he didn't need money to defeat Atiku Abubakar in the quest for PDP presidential nomination.

We want to categorically state that that could just be an inference drawn by the reporters from the answer the Distinguished Senator gave to one of their questions during his engagement with them. The question had to do with what they considered his relative disadvantage in a contest that required funding and in which more financially loaded aspirants were involved.

His answer, which did not mention Atiku's or any body's name was that one did not need to be loaded to lead and went on to cite examples of previous and even current leaders who had no money when leadership beckoned on them.

For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Makarfi wishes to make it clear that he holds former Vice President Atiku Abubakr in very high esteem and that the relationship between them is very cordial and mutually respectful. He therefore reiterates this respect for him and all the other aspirants whom he considers as brothers and comrades in the struggle to return Nigeria to a path real democracy and sanity.

Sgd
Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo

27th August 2018

PRESS STATEMENT


I DIDN'T MENTION ANYBODY'S NAME FOR THE RECORDS, SEN MAKRFI

The attention of Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi has been drawn to some news headlines making the rounds to the effect that he said he didn't need money to defeat Atiku Abubakar in the quest for PDP presidential nomination.

We want to categorically state that that could just be an inference drawn by the reporters from the answer the Distinguished Senator gave to one of their questions during his engagement with them. The question had to do with what they considered his relative disadvantage in a contest that required funding and in which more financially loaded aspirants were involved.

His answer, which did not mention Atiku's or any body's name was that one did not need to be loaded to lead and went on to cite examples of previous and even current leaders who had no money when leadership beckoned on them.

For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Makarfi wishes to make it clear that he holds former Vice President Atiku Abubakr in very high esteem and that the relationship between them is very cordial and mutually respectful. He therefore reiterates this respect for him and all the other aspirants whom he considers as brothers and comrades in the struggle to return Nigeria to a path real democracy and sanity.

Sgd
Mukhtar Zubairu Sirajo

HOW I ENSURED PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY IN NIGERIA- MAKARFI


Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi has disclosed that during the period he was chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, he helped to change the shape of disclosure of public resources, which hitherto was clouded in mystery.

He made the disclosure while addressing party delegates at the Osun State secretariat of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP), in Osogbo the state capital, Friday night.


According to him, "Nobody knew how much was being spent on oil subsidy. Nobody knew how much was going into special accounts. Nobody knew the cash flow and how it is reflected in the budget. Unspent money began to be reflected in the new budget during my time as senator.

"I insisted that these disclosures must be made because I found out that a number of times monies spent by government under this categorisation tends to be equal to the amount appropriated by the National Assembly."

The Presidential hopeful also posited that too many regulations in the country stiffen the growth of the private sector which is key to national development. He said an enabling environment must be created to make the sector thrive.

Part of the enabling environment, he said, include provision of infrastructure, security and less regulations. "We must harmonise regulations at the Federal, state and local government level so they do not inhibit private sector growth, which is an engine for moving Nigeria forward," he said amidst drum beats of support from various groups.

State PDP chairman, Hon Oluwatukesi Olasoji, while addressing the crowd described Senator Makarfi as a peace maker, a bridge builder and a man of integrity.

"Makarfi is a complete politician. He governed a turbulent Kaduna State and that was great administrative experience. He was in the Senate for eight years, he has legislative experience. Then he became National Caretaker Chairman of the party. Makarfi has vast experience and we want to assure you that you have our support," the chairman said.