₦airaland Forum

.....cites Senator Natasha as example of mandates retrieved through court




Youth advocate and one of the front runners of ALIGN Movement, Andrew Enantomhen has expressed optimism that Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the PDP in the 2024 Edo State Governorship election will be declared winner by the court.

Speaking in Benin City, Asue Ighodalo reminded everyone about Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central Senatorial zone of Kogi State who against all odds retrieved her mandate through the court.

"In Edo State, I expect our case to be similar. We have the legitimate votes, we have presented them in the case filed at the Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal.

"We expect nothing less than a successful case as our lawyers are fully briefed and ready to prove our case up to the highest court in Nigeria.

"Asue Ighodalo's mandate just like Senator Natasha's mandate will be retrieved in some weeks time at the Tribunal and the courts. Our case is as strong as that. We have absolute faith in the case and in the experience of our lawyers," Andrew Enantomhen said.

"If Adams Oshiomole can retrieve his mandate from Prof. Osumbor, I am very optimistic that with the evidence at hand, the Judiciary will definitely use this Asue case to redeem their image," Andrew Enantomhen said.

"We urge all our supporters and the supporters of Asue Ighodalo to be patient as efforts are ongoing by good men and good women to help Asue Ighodalo retrieve his mandate in court," Andrew Enantomhen further said.

"We use this opportunity to call on our youths to be prayerful, and to continue to show open solidarity for 'the Man Wey Sabi'.
We the young people are going to stand by Asue till our mandate is reclaimed," Andrew Enantomhen said.

Former spokesperson of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) recently spoke about the state of the nation under President Tinubu.



He expressed regret for supporting the APC in 2015. He said that President Tinubu and the APC are taking Nigeria backwards.



Attached is the YouTube video link to the interview:
https://www.youtube.com/live/fjPJJ2c2PmM?si=CYS0Wbq0v-ERiw39




Source: https://naijagg.com/video-with-tinubu-as-president-nigeria-is-going-nowhere-timi-frank/

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Tuesday, dismissed President Bola Tinubu’s cost-cutting measures, describing them as superficial and mere widow dressing.

Frank in a statement in Abuja described the austerity measures purportedly aimed at reducing cost of governance as fake and deceitful.

He noted that while countries like Rwanda and Tanzania have genuinely reduced excessive government spending, the reverse is the case in Nigeria where the president is giving austerity directives on one hand and engaging on lavish spending on the other hand.

Frank recalled that Tinubu had in January 2024 ordered a 60 per cent slash in his entourage and that of his wife, the Vice President and his wife, while on a foreign trip.

He said while the President limited his delegation on such trips to 20, the Vice President, First Lady and wife of the VP were to go with five staff only.

However, he lamented that the President and Vice President have not only increased the number of their foreign trips, large entourage continue to accompany them. Ditto for the First Lady and Ministers.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East,
said: “President Tinubu's recent cost-cutting measures, including limiting ministers to three official vehicles and reducing their security personnel, is superficial than substantive reforms.

“While these directives may suggest a commitment to fiscal responsibility, they fail to address the underlying issues of Nigeria's bloated bureaucracy and excessive governance costs.

“Notwithstanding that his plan to merge agencies in line with the Steve Oronsaye Report, has been jettisoned, he has equally encouraged the National Assembly to approve the establishments of zonal development commissions out of which he has assented to the North West and South East zonal intervention agencies’ bills.

“Besides, the President keeps creating ministries with multiple agencies - the latest being that of Livestock and Regional Development.

“The President is well aware that restricting ministers' vehicles and security details does not tackle the systemic corruption that inflates government expenditures.

“Furthermore, his administration continues to prioritize lavish spending over meaningful reforms, like the purchase of a new presidential jet, approval of 300 per cent increase in salary of judicial officers, building of official quarters for judges being planned by the FCT and the acquisition of a N5billion presidential Yacht.”

Frank equally raised the alarm that by building houses for judicial officers, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, is out to corruptly compromise the judiciary to decide both ongoing and future cases, including electoral disputes, in favour of himself, President Tinubu and all members of the present administration.

“This, among others, reveal a stark disconnect between rhetoric and action especially his removal of fuel subsidies, which have contributed to high inflation and resulted in crushing economic pain for average Nigerians, yet he keeps telling Nigerians to bear his inflicted economic hardships and wait for a better tomorrow.”

He called on the President to abide by his policy of traveling with only 20 persons on foreign trips, as well as the limit of five persons for the Vice President and the First Lady if he is serious about cutting cost of governance in the country.

He also told the President that reducing the fleet of cars in a Minister’s convoy and security detail accompanying any convoy have no significant impact in reducing the cost of governance.

He called on the President and all officials in the three arms of government - executive, legislative and judiciary - to urgently reduce their salaries and allowances by 50 per cent if the administration is serious about reducing cost of governance.

He called on Nigerians to brace up for more painful measures from the President, while urging them to mobilise and vote in a new government in 2027.



Source: https://naijagg.com/tinubus-cost-cutting-measures-mere-window-dressing-says-timi-frank/

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, on Sunday, raised the alarm over an alleged plot by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to secure a court injunction to block releases from the Federation Account to the 22 Local Government Councils in Rivers state.

Frank who made this disclosure in a statement in Abuja, said Wike and his co-travelers that are opposed to the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, resorted to the plot following their failure to stop local government elections in the state which held successfully on Saturday the 5th of October, 2024.

According to him, Wike through his proxies will tomorrow (Monday) or any day soon, approach a Federal High Court in Abuja with spurious writ with prayers that monthly funds allocation to the 22 LGAs in Rivers State should henceforth be withheld with claims that the elections were held in violation of a court ruling.

However, the Bayelsa-born political activist called on Wike to abandon the plot in the interest of the people of Rivers State and find alternative means to settle his rift with Governor Fubara.

He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to allow Wike to dent his democratic credentials with such a retrogressive court action seeing that local councils in Lagos state suffered similar fate during his administration as Governor through the devious orchestration of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Frank who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, also warned the Judiciary especially Judges and Justices always out to do Wike’s bidding for personal gain not to grant any frivolous prayer brought before them on this matter.

Besides, he condemned the partisan role the police have played so far in the
political crises rocking the state and called on them to protect all Rivers’ people instead of taking sides with the Ruling All Progressives Congress.

He said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot afford to fold his arms and watch as Wike plots to reverse democracy in Rivers State and by extension Nigeria.

“The anti-democratic tendency of former President Olusegun Obasanjo who seized funds meant for local councils in Lagos during Tinubu’s administration as Governor must not be allowed to repeat itself in Rivers State.

“As we speak, Wike is putting finishing touches to plans to secure a kangaroo court order to stop monthly funds allocation to local government councils in Rivers State. This must not be allowed to happen.”

He warned that such a move could lead to economic disruption in Rivers State in particular and the country in general as well as reversal of of democratic gains the country has made since 1999.

“Any action capable of truncating democracy in the country similar to ongoing scenarios in some West African States must be avoided.

“The people of Rivers State have elected their council chairman and councilors in line with the recent ruling of the Supreme Court to democratize all LGAs in Nigeria and any attempt to truncate democracy in Rivers would be resisted by the people,” he said.

While urging Fubara not to be distracted by the evil machinations of his traducers and political opponents, he congratulated the people of Rivers for successfully electing their council representatives and urged them to redouble their support for the Governor.



Source: https://naijagg.com/timi-frank-accuses-wike-of-plot-to-block-allocation-to-lgs-in-rivers-state/

…Warns IGP Egbetokun not to cause anarchy in Rivers

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, on Friday, called on the people of Rivers State to stand firmly behind Governor Siminilaye Fubara to enable the the state conduct a free, fair and credible Local government elections.

Frank who made the call in a statement in Abuja however warned the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, not to use his men to cause anarchy in their state.

He decried the conduct of the police which he described as partisan and called on the international community to hold Egbetokun responsible for any killings destruction of property as the people of the state vote to elect their council chairman on Saturday.

He also warned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who has boasted that he will do anything at all cost to set fire in Rivers state.

Frank said: “The involvement of the Police in Rivers is to destabilise the state and cause unrest during the forthcoming local government elections on Saturday.

“They are relying on illegal instructions given to them by Wike to stop a lawful democratic process in Rivers state.

“From intelligence at our disposal, Wike is boasting that the President has given him the authority to do and undo in Rivers State
and that is why he has engineered the police to engage in illegality by attempting to stop an election meant to usher in a democratically elected local government council administration in the state as ordered by the Supreme Court.

“Besides, Wike has told some persons that he will do everything to scuttle the local government election and ensure that they impose their people to take over the state by force because he allegedly has the backing of the President to take over the state considered to be
strategic to the President’s
plan to win the 2027 presidential election.

“The President is silent today about the illegality and wickedness Wike is orchestrating against Fubara and the people of Rivers state because the crisis is benefiting him, but he will be help liable ultimately for any breakdown of law and order in the state as the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces.

“They have turned Rivers into a theatre to flex federal might and make it a battleground but they must allow the electoral process to be free and fair because it is clear to all that Fubara has the full support of the Rivers’ people.”

According to him, under Wike as the governor of Rivers State, those who fought him were banned from coming to Rivers State to carry out their lawful activities.

“Therefore, it is time for Fubara to take charge and ensure that Rivers State becomes a no go area for all those fighting him politically,” he said.

He lamented that the Nigeria police meant to provide security for the people of Rivers state are only concerned about the political interests and security of Wike.

He called on the international community to note the involvement of the police in foisting illegality in Rivers State on the orders of the Inspector General of Police.

He warned that if the crises now being fanned by the police do occur it would have negative consequences for the people of Rivers state and the economy of the country in view of the level of oil production which is a critical revenue earner for the Federal Government.



Source: https://naijagg.com/lg-election-timi-frank-urges-rivers-people-to-stand-by-governor-fubara/

....says Edo people cannot be intimidated ahead of Saturday election



Edo PDP chieftain and human rights advocate, Andrew Enantomhen has on Tuesday congratulated all the PDP members that got freed from "the captivity of the police brutality, oppression, intimidation and victimization by the police."

"We shall not fall for the intimidation by the APC and the police, we will continue to bounce back, we will continue to stand by our decision to vote for PDP come Saturday, September 21, 2024. It is our future that is on the line as Edo State citizens and we will secure it with our votes for PDP against every evil force of the APC.

"We stand against every injustice. This Edo election is a collective decision from the Edo people that Asue Ighodalo is the next Governor of Edo State. We the people of Edo State must be allowed to decide our destiny. External forces hell-bent on doing the bid of APC must stay away from this Edo State election. The police must stay professional and never again be a tool in the hands of the APC. The police must stay neutral as against being instruments of intimidation.

"We urge our people to come out en masse on Saturday and vote because your vote will count. This election will be peaceful and interesting, we are one big family before political parties. We must not allow party affiliation divide us as a people. We are resolute on what we believe in and we stand by it.

"Once again, we welcome our fellow comrades back to the struggle. Struggle continues till victory is achieved on Saturday by God's grace and by the votes of Edo people. Aluta Continua, Victoria Ascerta!" Andrew Enantomhen further said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/andrew-enantomhen-congratulates-pdp-members-recently-freed-from-police-brutal-captivity/

By Stephen Abia, Esq.

How many former governors in Nigeria openly and honestly refer to their successors as their leader? Governors always want loyalty while in office but how many of them give same to their successors when they bow out of office? He who goes to loyalty must go with clean hands or put differently, loyalty begets loyalty. That is the beautiful story in Akwa Ibom State.

The sentiment that one cannot be a good leader without being a good follower has found expression in the relationship between the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel, CON, and his successor, Governor Umo Eno. Mr Emmanuel has endeared himself the more to the people through his relationship with Governor Umo Eno.

If his relationship with his successor were to be captured in a book, it would have been a bestseller and a top shelf demand. The former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel has shown that it is possible to be a former governor and still allow your successor fully take charge of the State even when you played such a crucial role in his emergence.

He has made being a former governor almost more attractive and exciting than being in office, deploying his innate qualities of contentment, respect, humility and a huge sense of responsibility to work, thereby stabilizing the polity which has helped Governor Umo Eno to remain focused on delivering on his campaign promises to Akwa Ibom people.

Juxtaposing the reality in neighbouring states, where immediate past leaders make leaving office look like removing oxygen from a man having respiratory issues, Mr Emmanuel should pass for a good example of how past governors and leaders generally should carry themselves.

In the build-up to the election of Pastor Umo Eno as the governor of Akwa Ibom State, the then Governor Emmanuel had made screaming headlines when he said that his then would-be successor, Pastor Umo Eno will perform better than him. But Mr Udom Emmanuel was probably economical with the truth, in the patriotic sense of the word.

He knew that he was going to give Pastor Umo Eno all the needed support to succeed, and he has done exactly that instead of creating rivalry with his successor because of former-governor "fever", a political health condition caused by greed and other viruses of insecurity, which has become an outbreak in other States.

Being a man of class, Mr Emmanuel has lived to his words that he was not seeking a third term by proxy. Despite his invaluable role in the emergence of Pastor Eno as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the immediate past Governor has never made himself a nightmare to his successor, as this would have led to friction, he has made everyone see and know that it is his successor's show and that the only thing he owes Governor Umo Eno is support, and as he puts it, prayers. His favourite lines, “water is sweeter when we drink from the cup, (not when being drowned in it). Being in a position of leadership is not an easy thing, so we owe our leaders nothing short of unflinching support and prayers, to succeed. So, everyday of my life, I keep praying for our Governor and leader, Pastor Umo Eno, to succeed, and that is the least we owe him.“

Mr. Udom Emmanuel has not only shown support to his successor, but he also commits himself to mobilizing others to give support to the governor, and utilizes every opportunity to preach peace in the State. In his first speech to the people of the State after leaving office, Mr Emmanuel, while declaring open an economic dialogue convoked by the new Government in July last year, announced that there can only be one leader at a time, and that God in his own wisdom has produced for Akwa Ibom, a leader in Pastor Umo Eno.

That gospel of peace and solidarity has surfaced in every fora the former governor finds himself. The most recent was at a church service at Gospel Foundation Mission, Etinan, where he urged members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly to go a step further in their unflinching support to Governor Umo Eno through a motion for his second term in office.

With an inspiration that can only come from the pulpit, Mr Udom Emmanuel had last weekend in that church said, “I can see so many state legislators from the Leader of the House to the Chief Whip, the Deputy Chief Whip, and several others. It is even possible to move a motion…if there is any motion to be moved it should be a motion that endorses Governor Umo Eno for a second term.” The lawmakers took the message home, and waited for a convenient day where they could move such motion before Akwa Ibom people and indeed the entire world. The opportunity presented itself during the Appreciation and Empowerment Rally for Youths of Akwa Ibom State where the motion was moved, seconded and confirmed by a unanimous voice vote by the lawmakers who had worshipped with the Governor two days earlier. It sounded like a dream to think that the idea of such motion of support for a successor came from his predecessor. Mr Udom Emmanuel's "book" on how to be a good predecessor is a thriller.

And because Mr Emmanuel has chosen to be a number one supporter of Governor Umo Eno than being a thorn on his flesh like is reported elsewhere, the former governor is loved the more by his people.

That is why they are always looking forward to seeing him visit the State, and often throng to the airport to receive him. The people are always excited to have the former governor around, continue to celebrate him as a hero, committed to championing the course of development of the State. No Governor in the history of Akwa Ibom has enjoyed such unwavering support from an immediate predecessor.

Of course, juxtaposing the gains of the peace in the State with a state of commotion caused by political tension that would have followed if Mr Udom Emmanuel did not genuinely love the State, then Akwa Ibom people cannot celebrate former Governor Udom Emmanuel enough.

It is the prevailing peace in the State, which Mr Emmanuel equally initiated and is sustained by Governor Umo Eno, that has helped the governor to record the many accomplishments of his administration in barely fifteen months in office.

The ARISE Agenda of Governor Eno is thriving because there is peace in Akwa Ibom State rather than peace of the graveyard which is often associated with political war between predecessors and successors. In a country, where headlines of hostilities between predecessors and successors over the control of power structures rend the air. “Someone cannot just come and take control of the structure I built over the years.” A typical Nigerian politician, could be quoted as saying of his successor in other states in the country.

But Mr Emmanuel who is not a typical Nigerian politician, has patriotically kept his promise, that when his time was over, he will pick his iPad and return to work as a professional that he is, and allow his successor to be fully in charge of the State. That was not mere rubric of rheotric; Mr Udom Emmanuel is a man of his word. He believes less in the elevation of greed to the detriment of the masses. Those who chanted that he wanted a third term through surrogacy have since recanted their claims.

The immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel has set a template in predecessor/successor relationship worthy of emulation by other political gladiators in Nigeria.

....says his candidacy is the credible choice





Foremost movement in Edo State, ALIGN Movement has on Wednesday adopted Asue Ighodalo as its candidate for the Edo 2024 gubernatorial election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo and His running mate, Barr. Osarodion Ogie, as their choice for the forthcoming Edo State Governorship election.

"It is with great sense of appreciation first and foremost to GOD Almighty for sparing our lives and for making today’s event a reality, and also to every member of this noble movement , “ALIGN MOVEMENT” spread across the length and breadth of this state that we stand before you all this morning at this much anticipated official endorsement programme.

"ALIGN MOVEMENT as it has come to be known in almost every household in Edo state today, is the largest socio-political movement in the state whose core mandate is to assemble like-minds, mostly of the youth demography, as well as the elderly. We stand on the espoused principles of Equity, Fairness and Justice, coupled with the values of Competence, Capacity, Credibility and Character, to come together to have a conversation around ensuring that the right things and proper criteria are considered and done during the course of making the most important decision between who is to govern and who are to be governed – The leadership recruitment process.

"ALIGN has come to become a rallying point and a vehicle for social engineering and reorientation for the people of our dear state. ALIGN MOVEMENT is a platform that affords a voice to the voiceless and an avenue for the unheard in the society to be heard and listened to. Members of this movement cut across every segment of legitimate human endeavour.

"We cannot totally exhaust or do justice to what this movement is all about given the very limited time factor considered for today’s event. However, permit me to throw some light on the journey thus far. ALIGN started with an official Luncheon in Edo South, sometime in February this year. With relatively less than 30 members to start with, ALIGN has experienced an exponential growth with a few months and can now confidently boast of about 15,000 documented members across the state with presence in every Local government areas, as well as with numerous membership cells and districts present in every ward. ALIGN has also become a mother body to several groups across the state, with its presence in every tertiary institution in Edo state," the group said.

"Today, we stand on the threshold of history and before each and every one of you here present, in this epoch making event to formally throw our weight and support behind the candidacy of men we consider as the right peg in the right hole (ASUE/OGIE) as ALIGN’s official adopted candidate for the Edo state governorship election running under the PDP ticket.

"This decision is one which has been collectively made by every member of this movement through the instrumentality of the ballot at the just concluded ALIGN congress held sometime in July 2024 which saw Dr. Asue Ighodalo emerging as our adopted candidate having considered his qualities and personality, coupled with the collective call that power should move to the Central district of the state for the sake of equity, fairness and justice. This of course is in tandem with the values and principles upon which this noble movement stands.

"As it is widely believed, to whom much will be given, much will also be expected. We want to believe that your eventual emergence as the next executive governor of this state will bring about prosperity and transformative change for the state. As admirers of your very strong, efficient, dedicated, tireless and effective work ethics, we have no doubt that you will work tirelessly to serve the good people of Edo state to the best of your ability.

"Today, we as a body, have decided that we shall mobilize the 15,000+ members of this movement across the 192 wards of the state to vote for you at the polls come 21st of September 2024. We make this commitment today as our own part of keeping to the social contract agreement we shall make with you today. This is a promise we do intend to keep on that faithful day of the election. We have already started putting mechanisms in place to ensure the actualization of this promise even as we gather here today. Permit me to also say that even before this formal endorsement event, we have already started with our door-to-door campaigns, voter sensitization rallies and market storms for your candidacy which is to run throughout the entire campaign calendar.

"As part of our social contract agreement with you today Sir, we as a body want to believe that you are a man whose words are his bond. We want to believe that as a body, we will not regret ever trusting you with our mandate. We also want to believe that ALIGN MOVEMENT will be fully represented, integrated and carried along in your administration upon your assumption of office at Osadebey Avenue come November this year after your official inauguration into office as the executive governor of Edo state. We are also very confident judging by your antecedents that you will deliver the dividends of democracy to the good people of our state whose support for your candidacy is growing increasingly every day on the streets," the group further said.

Further more in the statement, the group said "There is a popular maxim that says 'We campaign in poetry and govern in prose'. However, it is still very much possible to find an equilibrium between campaign rhetoric and governance. We do hope that when we come knocking at your door while in office, we will be given an audience.

"ALIGN MOVEMENT intends to create an agency which will be saddled with the responsibility of catering for the needs and interest of Edo people and most importantly of its members across the 18 LGAs of the state. We also intend to serve as a trusted feedback mechanism for your administration in a way to ensure that you keep to your campaign promises in order not to lose the peoples trust. We would also serve as an information dissemination channel to pass information, progress reports and activities of your government to the people of the state so as to bring your government closer to the people in the Grassroot.

Having said all these sir, on behalf of all members of ALIGN MOVEMENT NIGERIA, the biggest socio-political movement in Edo state today, we hereby confer on your candidacy an official endorsement status and present to you a certificate of return from our ALIGN CONGRESS, this day, 5th September 2024."



Source: https://naijagg.com/edo-2024-align-movement-endorses-asue-ighodalo-for-governor-says-his-candidacy-is-the-credible-choice/

A group of Nigerians have planned to stage #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest in New York in USA.

Furthermore, the group has set September 15 as date. As well, they have rolled out banners and placards in preparations ahead.




Source: https://naijagg.com/group-stages-endbadgovernanceinnigeria-protest-in-usa-on-september-15/

In the face of Nigeria's current challenges, a pressing question arises: What does Nigeria truly need? As the country navigates through economic hardship, insecurity, and a leadership crisis, Nigerian youths have emerged as the Rubicon of hope, echoing an insatiable desire for good governance and a call to "take back Nigeria." However, amidst these aspirations, another critical question lingers: Are those we believe in ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for change? Who are the leaders capable of steering the nation toward a more prosperous future?

Across the nation, various regions offer a glimpse into what leadership could look like. Some regions are showcasing transformative leadership, while others remain stuck in the old order. In the South East, for instance, the changes in Abia raise the question: Can Imo, once a beacon of hope, regain its former glory? In Edo, the dilemma of prioritizing individual competence over party allegiance comes to the fore. As Nigeria stands at a crossroads, its future depends heavily on the choices we make today.

In Imo State, a microcosm of Nigeria's broader struggles, citizens face economic challenges, insecurity, and a widening disconnect between the government and the people. Yet, a glimmer of hope persists, rooted in the collective memory of a time when the state thrived under leaders of integrity, capacity, and a genuine commitment to public welfare. Imo once flourished under the stewardship of leaders like Achike Udenwa, the remarkable M.I. Okpara, and more recently, Emeka Ihedioha, whose brief tenure as governor left a lasting impression. These leaders exemplified governance that aligned with the people's interests, setting a precedent for what could be achieved.

A recent Hybrid Media Cluster Engagement with His Excellency Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha underscored the need for effective leadership and governance in Nigeria. In an open and forthright dialogue with journalists, Ihedioha addressed the crisis of governance in Nigeria, his future political ambitions, and the potential for effective leadership. The discussion highlighted the importance of preparation and sustained engagement with the media, particularly in light of the contentious Supreme Court ruling that prematurely ended Ihedioha's governorship.

Many participants expressed a prevailing sentiment: Imo's redemption is intricately tied to Ihedioha's return to power. The conversation also emphasized the importance of involving youth in the pre-election planning phase, recognizing that younger voters are increasingly inclined to support candidates based on personality rather than party affiliation. Ihedioha's ability to connect with these groups through statements, shared reviews, and interactions was identified as crucial for building a broader base of support.

During the engagement, Ihedioha provided a comprehensive account of his political journey, from his time in the Parliament to his tenure as Governor of Imo State. He spoke passionately about his administration's efforts to prioritize good governance and highlighted his achievements as evidence of his capacity and pedigree. However, he clarified that this engagement was not a declaration of his candidacy but an opportunity to discuss accountability in governance and explore the steps needed to position leading candidates for the upcoming elections.

Ihedioha emphasized the importance of community-led development and the domestication of constitutional processes through community engagement, a model for a people-centric government that should be amplified. He called on the media to focus on presenting credible alternatives to the current system of governance, stressing the need for opposition forces to present strong candidates rather than allowing internal party conflicts to sideline potential leaders.

As the conversation drew to a close, Ihedioha urged the media to foster discussions about credible alternatives and to engage the public on issues that could strengthen his brand while addressing the broader challenge of effective leadership and representation. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to bolster independent and collaborative efforts to engage the public on pressing issues affecting the state and the nation.

As Imo State navigates its current challenges, the dialogue with Ihedioha serves as a reminder that leaders of integrity still exist, willing and able to lead with a commitment to public welfare. The question remains: Will the people of Imo seize the opportunity to return to a path of merit and progress, or will they continue on a trajectory marked by mediocrity? The coming months will reveal much about the direction Imo's citizens choose to take.

At this critical juncture, Nigeria needs leaders who are not only willing to make sacrifices but are also committed to the principles of good governance. The youth, increasingly becoming the deciding factor in elections, must be vigilant and discerning in their choices. It is not enough to call for change; we must ensure that those in a position to effect that change are equipped, prepared, and truly aligned with the people's aspirations. The future of Nigeria depends on it.



Ikokwu Chidozie is an independent writer based in Abuja


Source: https://naijagg.com/amidst-glaring-hardship-what-does-nigeria-truly-need/

.....says "Asue Ighodalo is the way forward"



Edo PDP chieftain and youth advocate, Andrew Enantomhen on Thursday commended the people of Edo State for the massive turn-out at Ubiaja, Esan South-East Local Government of Edo State.

At the campaign venue, Andrew Enantomhen expressed excitement at the massive turn-out and said that the people of Edo State have decided to move forward with Asue Ighodalo and that indeed Asue Ighodalo embodies competence, character and capacity.

"I am glad to be here today. The crowd here today is overwhelming. It is a huge statement. It is a statement that the good people of Edo State are ready to move forward with the man of competence, character and capacity and the man is none other but Asue Ighodalo.

"The facts are clear. Asue Ighodalo is far ahead of his fellow contestants and we the good people of Edo have decided that he is our next Governor and that is why we are here today to show support and to show that indeed we are with Asue Ighodalo and to that effect, we are not going back but we are only moving forward. Come September 21, Asue Ighodalo of the PDP is who we the good people of Edo State are voting for," Andrew Enantomhen said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/edo-2024-andrew-enantomhen-commends-the-people-of-edo-for-the-massive-turn-out-at-asue-ighodalos-campaign-flag-off/

A deadly clash between Nigerian police and Shi’ite protesters in Abuja on Sunday resulted in the deaths of two police officers and left three others hospitalized and unconscious.

The police also reported that patrol vehicles were burnt during the confrontation.

The violence erupted during the Arbaeen Symbolic Trek, a religious event commemorating the killing of Imam Hussain (AS) in 680 CE.

According to eyewitnesses, armed policemen fired teargas canisters and live ammunition at the protesters, killing and injuring an unspecified number of people.

The event, which began on Saturday, August 24, was meant to be a peaceful procession but turned deadly when police and protesters clashed.

Reports indicate that the police forcefully intervened in the IMN procession at Wuse Market, leading to a violent confrontation.

A team of armed policemen deployed teargas canisters and live ammunition to disperse the peaceful procession, causing chaos in the area.

Motorists and passersby sought safety as members of the sect suffered various injuries.

In a statement, Sheikh Sidi Munir Mainasara Sokoto confirmed the incident on behalf of the movement, stating that those with gunshot wounds were rushed to an undisclosed hospital.

He added that they were still compiling the number of fatalities.

According to him, “The police attacked the Arba’een Symbolic Trek in Wuse District, Abuja, killing and injuring numerous mourners.”

He further stated that security agents were arresting the mourners.


Source: https://naijagg.com/shiite-attack-in-abuja-2-police-officers-killed-3-critically-injured/

"#EndBadGovernance protest to continue in New York From September 15" - Group


A group has said it will continue the #EndBadGovernance protest in New York on September 15, 2024.

"We have continued to watch the activities of the Bola Tinubu’s administration where corruption, human rights abuses, injustices, intimidation Killings and insecurities have become the norm.

"While we can no longer stand and watch our country and citizens suffer in the hands of Tinubu and his corrupt government, must account for all the killings, the deaths and missing persons who participated during the peaceful #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest in Nigeria recently.

"We want the world to know what they have turned Nigerians and Nigeria to.

"Therefore, as Bola Tinubu prepares to attend the 79th UN General Assembly starting from 10-30 September 2024 New York, United States, the #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protests in the Diaspora will take to the United Nations Building, the Nigerian House, and the Hotel that would be housing Bola Tinubu and his entourage from September 15 and demand.

"1. Immediate release of Bristol Isaac Tamunobiefiri aka PIDOM, a journalist and whistleblower and others arrested and detained by the police and other security agencies during the #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protests in Nigeria.

"2. That Bola Tinubu immediately cut down the size of Government and sack non-performing appointees.

"3. Immediate end to corruption, looting of the commonwealth of the country my himself and his cronies.

"4. The immediate return of fuel subsidies so as to reduce the cost of living in the country

"5. Good governance and robust plan to end insecurity in the country,


"Protesters comprising Nigerians in the diaspora and lovers of Nigeria are going to gather in front of the Nigerian House on 828 second Avenue, New York, NY from September 15, 2024 from 9am.

"We must free Nigeria and Nigerians from Bola Tinubu’s kleptocratic and authoritarian regime," the group said in a statement signed by its members; Austin Ikpeme and Peter Olagunju.


Source: https://naijagg.com/endbadgovernance-protest-to-continue-in-new-york-from-september-15-group/

The Presidency and the leadership of the APC seems to have distanced away from the APC campaign in Edo State.

According to confidential sources within the APC, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC leadership are angry that the APC candidate in Edo State, Monday Okpebholo cannot in fact speak correct English language.

Infact there is a major concern that Monday can not even spell Tuesday.

As of the time of this report, the APC is in total disarray and confusion as it battles with the embarrassment the APC candidate is daily causing the party.

Some of the leadership of the APC in Edo State have since been summoned to Abuja to answer to how Monday Okpebholo emerged as candidate of the party.

There are suspicions that Monday may have emerged through a compromised promise that left out the best the party could have fielded.



According to a source that pleased to be kept anonymous, "The Presidency summoned Oshiomole and Monday over Monday's inability to communicate in English. The Presidency fears that the APC chance in this Edo election is very slim based on all indications.


"With this development, some key stakeholders in the party are not happy that each time Monday open his mouth to speak, he causes more damage to the party's reputation.

"As a result of this, Monday and Oshiomole have been advised to stay mute during the campaign in order for them not to destroy the slim chances the party has left to make any good impression before September 21 to Edo people.


According to another insider within the APC, Asue Ighodalo is obviously going to win this forthcoming Edo State Governorship election.


Source: https://naijagg.com/edo-2024-tinubu-apc-leadership-angry-over-apc-candidates-inability-to-speak-english/

.....calls for the immediate release of arrested Esan Councillor



Edo PDP chieftain and youth advocate, Andrew Enantomhen on Saturday criticized the APC for trying to cause trouble in Edo State as the Edo State Governorship election approaches.

He made this statement in reaction to the recent arrest of Hon. Kingsley Osehon, Councillor of Ward 10 and Chief Whip, Esan North-East Local Government Council of Edo State by "suspected policemen".

Andrew Enantomhen called for the immediate release of Hon. Kingsley Osehon and called on the APC to stop intimidating the people of Edo State.

"The people of Edo State have made up their minds. They have decided. We have decided. Our votes are for Asue Ighodalo of the PDP. We don't have anything in common with APC in Edo State just as light has nothing in common with darkness. APC represents darkness, so we don't want them in Edo State. We have chosen the light, hence we chose Asue Ighodalo as the person we will vote for, come September 21, 2024.

"We the people of Edo State cannot be intimidated by the APC. I use this medium to call for the immediate release of Hon. Kingsley Osehon. His arrest is unlawful, his arrest is an insult on the collective decency in Edo State. Hon. Kingsley Osehon is a leader in Esan North-East Local Government. Arresting him is like arresting the people of Esan and we will not take that. We the people of Esan cannot be intimidated," Andrew Enantomhen said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/edo-2024-dont-heat-up-the-polity-in-edo-state-andrew-enantomhen-warns-apc-calls-for-the-immediate-release-of-arrested-esan-councillor/

Edo North Senator, Adams Oshiomhole and Edo APC Governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo have been cautioned to desist from rubbishing the legacy of Chief Tony Anenih and his son.

According to the Esan natives, Oshiomhole is beginning to bite the finger that once fed him.

"Oshiomole's abusive tendencies against Chief Tony Anenih is an abuse on the collective sensitivity of the entire Esan race.

"We the entire Esan sons and daughters are saying this is becoming too much of an abuse from Oshiomole on the Esan people.

"Oshiomole's abuses against Ose Anineh are completely unacceptable. Oshiomhole has acted uncivilized by his 'senseless' dragging and verbal abusing of of our revered sons and daughters for too long.

"His dirty politics will never be accepted by the sons and daughters of Esan-land.

"Oshiomole is hell-bent on destroying our heritage in Esan land, and we will not sit by and just watch. We will resist him by every decent and lawful means. We will prove that the silence of we Esan people is not cowardice.

"We call on Adams Oshiomole to tender an unreserve apology to Ose Anineh and to the entire Esan race and we caution Adams Oshiomhole to salvage whatever is still left of his political relevance in Edo State and learn decorum even as we are all sure that the ambition of his godson, Monday Okpebholo, is already an exercise in futility," Andrew Enantomhen, of the natives of Esan land, said.

"The people of Esan land are completely resolved on voting for Asue Ighodalo. This decision is not up for debate or re-consideration as the situation has become more serious with Adams Oshiomhole thinking he can use verbal abuses to intimidate the people of Esan land to vote for his own godson. We will at the polls prove to Adams Oshiomhole that we are resolute and fearless and noble people in Esan land and when we vote on September 21, 2024 we will vote for a candidate who is by name Asue Ighodalo," the Esan natives further said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/stop-rubbishing-anenihs-legacy-sons-heritage-esan-agenda-warns-oshiomhole-okpebholo/

"Witches and wizards" allegation: Andrew Enantomhen calls on Esan traditional leadership to call Oshiomhole to order



Edo youth and good governance advocate, Andrew Enantomhen has on Thursday called on the Esan traditional institution to call Edo North Senator, Adams Oshiomhole to order.

He also demanded for unreserved apology from the Senator, to the people of Esan land.

"We call on the traditional leaders, we call on our forefathers and elders of Esanland to as a matter of urgency summon Adams Oshiomole to the open market to tender an unreserve apology to the entire Esan race for calling us witches and wizards.
Esan people reject Oshiomole because he is an enemy of the Esan race.

"Oshiomole's hatred for Esan people is obvious to the blind.
We call on the Federal Government and the security agencies to caution Oshiomole for heating up the polity for his own selfish interest and for causing ethnic division and disunity in Edo state.

"This is the same Oshiomhole that never wanted Esan as Governor, this is the same Oshiomhole that was against Esan Speaker in the EDHA. Except for SMO and Ize Iyamu's stubbornness, someone else would have been APC's candidate in as much as Oshiomhole is concerned," Andrew Enantomhen said.

"Oshiomhole can't be trusted when Esanland is involved.
Oshiomole called Esan people witches and wizards all because of his hatred for Esan land. Oshiomole has bad intentions for Esan people and he will betray the Esan race.
I call on every Esan citizen to be wise and be weary of Oshiomhole because a leopard can never change from its skin. A word is enough for the wise. Oshiomole and Monday must tender an open apology in the open market in the next four market days to the entire Esan race for calling us witches and wizards," Andrew Enantomhen further said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/witches-and-wizards-allegation-andrew-enantomhen-calls-on-esan-traditional-leadership-to-call-oshiomhole-to-order/

.....advises Oshiomhole to stop heating up the polity



Edo PDP chieftain and youth advocate, Andrew Enantomhen has reacted to Senator Adams Oshiomhole's recent outing on Arise News TV.

Andrew Enantomhen in reaction, advised Senator Adams Oshiomhole to stick to his "failed third term guber bid" and not heat up the polity in Edo State.

"We all know that Adams Oshiomhole is the guber candidate of the APC in Edo State. We all know Adams Oshiomhole is trying to return to Osadebe House through his candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo who is as confused as to what exactly he is doing in the guber race in the first instance.

"Not to mince words, let me get straight to the issues. Adams Oshiomhole should stop trying to twist the facts. There is no any existing court judgement at any time that annulled Asue Ighodalo's gubernatorial candidacy as the PDP candidate. Where Adams Oshiomhole saw his own court judgement that he was emphasizing about on Arise News TV is definitely a figment of his imagination. It has no any place in fact and in reality.

"Adams Oshiomhole must not heat up the polity. We all wish him and his godson, Monday Okpebholo the very best, whichever of them is indeed in the guber race for the APC, but they must not heat up the polity under any guise. All Edo citizens are united under the banner of PDP and all Edo citizens including the good people of Edo North are all determined to vote for Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, come September 21, 2024 and a million of Adams Oshiomhole shall not be able to do anything to stop that determination of the good people of Edo State. The earlier Adams Oshiomhole accepts this fact the better for him and his godson and the APC altogether. Edo State is decided already. We are voting Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, come September 21, 2024," Andrew Enantomhen said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/edo-2024-andrew-enantomhen-counsels-oshiomhole-to-stick-to-his-failed-third-term-guber-bid-and-not-heat-up-the-polity/

… Says his ‘eating’ utterance spiked crisis

The Coalition for Parliamentary Democracy (CPD) has blamed the ongoing protests over economic hardships on the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, saying he must be held responsible if Nigeria failed.

The group alleges that the statement credited to Senator Akpabio wherein he declared that Nigerians can be protesting while they that are in government are eating spiked the protests that had just started when he commented.

According to the group’s National Coordinator, Dr Menike Johnson, the reckless utterance of Akpabio angered the youths who then alleged that the federal government is uncaring, inconsiderate, and detached from Nigerians.

The CPD further noted that Akpabio’s statement portrayed him as one with an agenda that is different from what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is preaching.

“Only this can account for his public opinion that Nigerians can be protesting while they in government are eating", the group stated.

...Calls for Restraint on the Use of Lethal Force by Police, Army, and DSS


Comrade Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately order the unconditional release of all hunger protesters detained by the police and other security forces.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Frank also urged the President to prevent further violence and the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters by law enforcement agencies.

He criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his antagonistic stance towards the protesters and suggested that President Tinubu should dismiss him if he continues to show disrespect towards Nigerian youths.

"Nigerians have the inalienable right to protest against government policies that adversely affect them and to demand changes for the collective good," Frank stated.

He acknowledged that while the ongoing protests are well-intentioned, they have been exploited by sponsored groups in some states, which have aimed to discredit the organizers and provide security forces with an excuse to suppress the demonstrations.

“This should not be the case. The vacation Judge in Abuja who curtailed the rights of protesters by unjustly restricting them to the Moshood Abiola Stadium and other public spaces in Lagos also ruled that the police and other security agencies should protect the protesters both in Abuja and other parts of the country," he noted.

Frank criticized the security forces for failing to adhere to the court’s order, which resulted in the unjust killings, arrests, brutalization, and incarceration of protesters, as well as the hijacking of protests by government-sponsored agents to perpetuate criminal acts.

"This situation must not be allowed to continue. The President must genuinely protect the youths who are protesting. He must approach the protesters like a father dealing with an angry child. After all, the youths have no other country to call their own."

As the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, Frank condemned FCT Minister Wike for obtaining a biased court order that sought to confine protesters to the Abuja Stadium. He also praised the courage of the demonstrators who defied the order.

"The enforcement of this unjust order has led to peaceful protesters being tear-gassed by the police, arrested, and detained in large numbers, alongside the harassment of journalists," Frank emphasized.

He warned that any further acts of aggression against peaceful protesters by the police and other security agencies could escalate tensions and provoke resistance from the protesters.

Frank called for the international community to closely monitor the ongoing protests and the security forces' brutal responses. He urged the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union to impose visa bans on the FCT Minister and the chiefs of police and the army responsible for the mistreatment of protesters.

Expressing condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured, Frank urged the International Criminal Court to hold the Inspector General of Police and all Service Chiefs in Nigeria accountable for the killings of unarmed protesters in recent days.

He vowed to petition the ICC to prosecute Wike and the IGP for ordering the police to use tear gas and live ammunition against unarmed peaceful protesters in Abuja and Kano, respectively.

Frank urged the Federal Government to avoid using force against the protesters, stating that “only dialogue and peaceful engagements can bring the much-needed resolution to the protests.”


Source: https://naijagg.com/timi-frank-urges-president-tinubu-to-release-detained-protesters/

.....hails Nigerians for coming out for protest



Former spokesperson of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank has warned the Nigerian police to be professional in their conduct as the #EndBadGovernance protest in Nigeria commences today, Thursday, August 1.

"For far too long, the Nigerian masses have endured more than can be imagined and it is cheering to see them stand up for their right to make demands on the Government from across North and South.

"I am getting reports of good outing in Lagos, Port Harcourt and parts of the North like Kano and Sokoto already," Timi Frank said.

"One thing I have further to say is to the Nigerian police. I urge the Nigerian police to be professional. The job of the Nigerian police is to protect the protesters and not to harm the protesters. We will not tolerate any overzealous police officer trying to hijack this protest for any reason whatsoever. Protest is a constitutional right and that right is currently being exercised by Nigerians and the Government and the police and the Armed forces must respect that constitutional right of Nigerians and provide protection for the protests and to try to hijack the protest under any guise," Timi Frank warned.


Source: https://naijagg.com/be-professional-your-job-is-to-protect-the-protesters-not-harm-the-protesters-timi-frank-warns-the-nigerian-police-nigerian-armed-forces/

Kogi Congress: Vote of No Confidence by LG Chairmen - a gathering of thieves, impostors and their collaborators, Group calls for their immediate arrest and prosecution.


July 30, 2024

Our attention has been drawn to the unfortunate events unfolding in Kogi state as regards the congress which was meant to have taken place on the 27th July, 2024 in Kogi state.

For the records, we are not unaware that some desperate and self-serving politicians attempted to ruin the congress by hijacking electoral materials meant for the congress which led to the suspension of the congress by the state Party Caretaker Committee to forestall impending political crises.

We are appalled by the show of shame in the name of "vote of no confidence" by some party chairmen across the state.

African Youth Leadership Initiative wish to state unequivocally that the actions of these chairmen by association is nothing short of fraudulent, and impersonation which contravenes the provisions of the law.

Section 484 of the Code of Conduct Act of Nigeria is unambiguously clear on this matter. It read thus; Any person who, with intent to defraud any person, falsely represents himself to be some other person, living or dead, is guilty of a felony and is liable to imprisonment for three years.

There is no way these chairmen will feign ignorance to the fact that six (6) out of their so-called members are impostors. This, again calls for questioning of the chairmen, and begs the question if they are an accomplices to the impostors?


Section 10 of the Nigerian Criminal Code Act is also clear on this matter; A person who receives or assists another who is, to his knowledge, guilty of an offence, in order to enable him to escape punishment, is said to become an accessory after the fact to the offence.

It is on above premise that we call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the impostors who issued the statement of vote of no confidence and appended their signatures to the document.

These documents which is already in the public domain will now be tendered as exhibits of the crime.

STATE OF THE NATION: NIGER DELTA COALITION FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (NDCSD) SUPPORTS AUGUST 1, 2024 NATIONAL PROTEST AGAINST PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GOVERNMENT.

We the Niger Delta Coalition for Sustainable Development, (NDCSD), a foremost Coalition that has been a voice of the people of the region since 2012, hereby express deep disappointment over the current condition of Nigeria and Nigerians, since independence including the Civil War of 1967-1970 never experienced this hunger situation Nigerians are facing since the APC government took power.

We urgently conveyed our meeting led by Comr James Ebiowei Brown, National Coordinator and National Organizing Secretary, Excel Toriomo of the group in the creeks of the Niger Delta to come up with our position on the proposed national protest by critical stakeholders across the nine Niger Delta States, therefore, we unanimously declare our total support to the proposed 1st of August nationwide protest without apology.

We have already set out all our machineries in motion and at the same time this is to inform Mr. President and his administration that we are ready, because we can no longer watch our people die of hunger and starvation, enough is enough in this ill-treatment and inhuman hearted administration.

We will not support oppression, injustice and nepotism, we will stand for what is right and we will fight those who support this government against the will of the people, hence this statement we are issuing today on the subject matter of the national protest for August 1, 2024.

We can no longer allow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Administration to take Nigerians for a ride, enough is enough!! He has made the worst of appointments which are all lopsided and tribalistic at the detriment of a united Nigeria. The sheer impunity in appointment has divided our country than ever, and it is the worst where only Yorubas are occupying all positions.

We want to let Nigerians know that President Tinubu is aware that he is not a monopoly of protest therefore does not have the moral standing to stop the protest Nigerians want to embark on August 1, 2024.

We are in support of the protest and we have given instructions to all our structures in the Niger Delta States and other youth organizations across the country including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja that we are encouraging them to come out to vent out their displeasure with the way and manner this administration has treated Nigerians, whereby we have lost our youths to the ‘Japa’ Syndrome on daily basis.

REASONS FOR SUPPORT OF PROTEST

First, Nigerians have never experienced the degree of hunger in the land, and this has led to heightened insecurity, high cost of foodstuff in the market, whereby the common man is denied his food and families are now selling their property and children to survive, stealing, while some are dying of hunger daily, and we will not allow this to continue.

Second, the current inflation is terribly abnormal without solution, and this has killed countless businesses, and Nigerians have lost their jobs and their suffering is compounded. It is not going to be allowed any more.

Third, Fuel pump price, the scam call subsidy removal is has destroyed the economy of this country, and all the prices of goods and services have skyrocketed, therefore, Nigerians cannot breathe.

Fourth, Minimum wage, this is a sheer oppression to force this meagre sum of N70, 000 down the throat of Nigerian workers that cannot even buy a bag of rice, and this pay is a ridicule of the hard working Nigerian worker, and we reject it.

Fifth, collapsed power generation and supply, this failure of government had made the economy to be on snail speed, therefore, scares investors, which many have left the country, while others do not want to come in any longer, and small businesses are dying, and Nigerians paying high electricity tariff while in darkness.

Others are bad roads; Budget padding;. INEC rigging of election with impunity; Highest cost of governance; Highest bidder appointments; Excessive borrowings for looting; Crude oil theft; Dysfuntional functional refineries; Excess electricity & erratic tariffs; Excessive bank charges; Resource control; 1999 constitution; Need for restructuring restructuring; Consumption instead of production; Arable farmland without subsidized mechanized farming equipment; Breakdown of law and order; Injustices at the courts; Failed civil service system; Non-functional educational system; Japa syndrome; Corruption; Unaccountability of public office holders; Poor road networks; Worst housing programme; Non real estate funding Interest rates for entrepreneurs; Devastating economic policies; Looting and lootocracy Growing division amongst ethnic groups35. Naira devaluation36. Poverty; Lack of support for local manufacturers and local contents; Highest import duties ever; Underfunded army and police; Salaries and pension delays, and among others.

SHOULD THEIR BE SHOW OF FORCE ON PEACEFUL PROTESTERS BY SECURITY AGENCIES OR SPONSORED GROUPS.

We will shut down the NNPCL facilities and force oil companies to leave the region.

We also will storm NNPCL Towers in Abuja to ensure the sack of Engr Mele Kyari who have done this country evil than good.

We will also storm the National Assembly and ensure Senator Godswill Akpabio is sacked as Senate President because we have rejected and pass vote of no confidence on him, the National Assembly should immediately sack him for unethical practices as Senate President.

OUR DEMANDS

President Bola Tinubu should immediately tackle these destructive policies in the best interest of a comatose economy.

The President should reverse the destructive scam fuel subsidy removal back to where it was.

Signed for others by:

Comr James Ebiowei Brown, National Coordinator,

Excel Toriomo
National Organizing Secretary.

Niger Delta Coalition for Sustainable Development (NDCSD)



Source: https://naijagg.com/state-of-the-nation-niger-delta-coalition-for-sustainable-development-ndcsd-supports-august-1-2024-national-protest-against-president-bola-ahmed-tinubu-government/

.....calls on Philip Shaibu to let peace reign in Edo State



Edo youth advocate, Andrew Enantomhen on Monday congratulated the candidate of the PDP in the forthcoming Edo State Governorship election, Asue Ighodalo on his Appeal Court victory.

Describing the victory, Andrew Enantomhen said it is a victory for decency and what is right. He further said it is a victory for "fairness, justice and equity".

Speaking to Philip Shuaibu, the appellant in the case, Andrew Enantomhen said he should "rest and let peace reign in Edo State."

"With all due respect to the impeached and therefore former Deputy Governor, we think it is time for him to put an end to his dramas and let Edo State move forward. We thank him for his past public services as a State but we must not let him hold our dear State to ransom. He is not the first Deputy Governor to fall out with his principal and be removed from office for obvious reasons as it fits the wisdom of the House of Assembly, and he will not be the last.

"Asue Ighodalo is the incoming Governor of Edo State. Today the Appeal Court affirmed Asue Ighodalo as the duly elected gubernatorial candidate of the PDP. Now, Philip Shaibu should let us focus on the campaigns and stop his wild goose chase that is leading to nowhere. We need peace in Edo State and the peace is non-negotiable and Philip Shaibu must respect that fact and rest, and let Edo State move forward in peace," Andrew Enantomhen said.



Source: https://naijagg.com/andrew-enantomhen-congratulates-asue-ighodalo-on-his-appeal-court-victory-calls-on-philip-shaibu-to-let-peace-reign-in-edo-state/

.....says "Tinubu is putting Nigerians through hell"




Former Deputy Spokesperson of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank on Monday in Abuja joined the call for what is termed as #EndBadGovernance in Nigeria.

Justifying the planned protest, Timi Frank said "within a year of Tinubu's Presidency, Nigerians on their own have had enough of bad governance in ways never imagined."

"Tinubu is putting Nigerians through hell, everyday. Tinubu is using bad governance to reduce the lifespan of the average Nigerian. In fact, Nigeria under Tinubu is the dictionary definition of bad governance. Even the APC members are feeling it. Everyone is crying in the country now. The only people not feeling it are Tinubu and his few friends who have held the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ransom with bad governance.

"So, yes, I support the call for a protest to end bad governance in Nigeria. We have had bad governance under Buhari but Tinubu has taken the bad governance to a level that threatens even the daily existence of the average Nigerian. The average Nigerian goal now is just survival and nothing more now. Nigerians just want to see how they can daily survive till the next day as Tinubu and his few friends from Lagos continue to wreck havoc on the country and its innocent and hardworking citizens in ways never imagined," Timi Frank further said.


Source: https://naijagg.com/timi-frank-joins-call-for-endbadgovernance-protest-says-tinubu-is-putting-nigerians-through-hell/

.....urges Tinubu's media handlers to stop bullying the North for speaking their minds



Former APC Deputy Spokesperson, Timi Frank on Sunday weighed in on the state of the nation. He said the signs ahead are not in favour of a possible Tinubu re-election.

"In fact, let me put it clearly for the record, President Tinubu's chances are getting slimmer by the day. Some others think Tinubu will be a one-term President because of the growing anger of the North, but the fact is, Tinubu's potential to be a one-term President is because of his bad policies.

"Somehow, President Tinubu has made suffering a national reality. Across the country, North and South, people are suffering," Timi Frank said.

"People are also saying that Tinubu's potential to be a one-term President is because the North cannot wait for the South to complete eight years in power, well, the fact is, Tinubu's bad policies are enough to even see that even in the South-West where Tinubu comes from, is where Tinubu's loss will start from.

"Tinubu did not really win in the South in the last election. Tinubu is President today because of Northern votes. So, my advise to the media handlers of President Tinubu is that they should desist from bullying the North. The North must be allowed to speak their minds freely without fear of intimidation by anybody or from any quarter. From where I see it, the signs ahead point to the impending reality that Tinubu will be a one-term President as he will likely be voted out of power by 2027," Timi Frank further said.



Source: https://naijagg.com/tinubu-will-likely-be-a-one-term-president-because-of-his-bad-policies-and-not-because-of-the-norths-growing-anger-timi-frank/

The Coalition for Parliamentary Democracy, CPD, has advised the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to seek advice from past holders of the office on public conduct.

The CPD says the mannerisms currently displayed by Sen.Akpabio while presiding in the chamber shows an alarming lack of expected decorum, carriage and knowledge on parliamentary practices and procedures.

The group notes that Senate Presidents that preceded Akpabio in office like Ahmad Lawan, Bukola Saraki, David Mark conducted the affairs of the institution in reverence and respect which the office demands, expressing concerns that Sen. Akpabio’s actions and utterances as Senate President are ridiculing the institution.

Dr. Menike Johnson, the CPD’s National Coordinator, in a statement issued in Abuja and made available to newsmen, frowned at the pettiness of Akpabio in dragging his personal animosity to the floor of the Senate using the privilege of the Chair, the symbol of the parliament authority.

“If he (Akpabio) sought the advice of his predecessors in that office, he would have been counseled that the Chair of the Senate President in the chamber is not designed for personal scuffles.

"It is not a seat for personal aggrandizement or peddling of cheap rumours and lies.

"The expectations of Nigerians is that Akpabio as the Senate President will provide for legislative instruments that will help President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to solve economic challenges confronting the nation", the statement stated

It will be recalled that Sen. Akpabio had on Thursday alleged that he made Mr Udom Emmanuel Governor of Akwa Ibom State and he did nothing for him for eight years.

Earlier, the Senate President was also quoted as advising the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to “ignore” the Senator representing the FCT, Senator Ireti Kingibe.

Akpabio’s history of careless comments on the floor of the red chambers had previously seen him falsely accusing Governors of receiving 30billion naira palliatives from the Federal Government with nothing to show for it, a statement he would later recant.

The CPD described such utterances as "reckless, infantile and unbefitting of the office of the Senate President".

.....Edo APC stakeholders complain that Monday Okpebholo is bringing the APC humiliation everyday



In what seems to be a twist in the events leading to the September 2024 Governorship election in Edo State, the APC stakeholders are said to be re-considering their stand.

According to sources that spoke to reporters in Benin today, the APC is angry that the Edo APC candidate has failed to make any headway with his campaign yet.

"The party is not happy with Monday Okpebholo. His growing rejection across the State is a serious cause for concern even in Abuja.

"Many of our key stakeholders are saying they will support and vote for Asue Ighodalo in September. They say they are just with us but they will rather vote for Asue Ighodalo.

"Monday Okpebholo is bringing us humiliation every now and then. His inability to be co-ordinated as a person is a serious embarrassment. The people of Edo State are not interested in our campaign at all. It is rejection all over the place," an anonymous source told this news medium.

"The fact is Monday Okpebholo was imposed on us. He is not our choice. Yet he lacks the charisma expected in a leader in every way even the very least of it, he lacks it. He is very unconvincing. Even our own party members have since pitched their tent with Asue Ighodalo. We even fear that Mr President may have abandoned us to our fate in Edo. Ighodalo is winning this forthcoming election, honestly much as it worries me as a stakeholder in the APC. Instead of us to put our campaign house in order, we are busy trying to focus our energy into PDP affair, see the almighty APC trying to celebrate what is not worth our attention on a good day. A lawyer misinterpreted a judgement for us and we are celebrating the misinterpretation. That is how bad things are with the Monday Okpebholo campaign right now. It is really finished as the APC campaign is not making any form of progress at all till now," the anonymous source in the APC further said.



Source: https://naijagg.com/breaking-edo-apc-in-disarray-as-stakeholders-complain-that-monday-okpebholo-is-bringing-the-apc-humiliation-everyday-vow-to-vote-for-ighodalo/

• The purported endorsement claims are a Confirmation of Leadership Failure in Kogi East — Captain Joe Agada

….says all aspirants should prepare for congress

June 26, 2024

The Captain Joe Agada for Kogi State PDP Chairman media team has noted with amusement , the purported endorsement over the weekend of two desperate entities.

The media team tagged as outrageous and a hilarious joke, the purported claims by some quarters that a certain Hon. Tony Amego and Hon. Mona Anyiebe have both been endorsed for the same position of Kogi PDP State party chairman by His Excellency Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, former Governor of Kogi State.

The Captain Joe Agada media team says it is laughable that the aspirants involved in this joke, rather than gear up for elections at the congress, are in desperate mode, shopping for a non-existent endorsement.


What is clearly demonstrated now has justified capt. Joe Agada's stance that the coveted State chairmanship is no longer an exclusive preserve of His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris to dispense to anybody, rather such power has been given to the elected delegates from the 21LGA and 239 wards and that was why in his wisdom, His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim made it abundantly clear that he has no preferred candidate. “Baba said is not from him “ but anybody who wins from the field becomes his Chairman and that he has no preferences.

"It is also on record that Captain Joe Agada never attended any meeting in Alhaji Ibrahim’s house to support a kangaro endorsement arrangement.

The media team said it is disappointed in the commotion at play where two different aspirants are claiming to have been endorsed for the same exclusive position at the same time by one man.

In setting the records straight, it needs to be established clearly that the narratives about such endorsement claim can be likened to Kunle Bamtefa’s Fuji house of commotion.

It is imperative to note that all those fronting the purported but now discreted consensus endorsement are mostly our anti party returnee leaders previously as DG ACCORD party alias Akpabana or frontline SDP promoters after their candidate defected to APGA and all of them are now wanting to nominate their anti party surrogates into PDP Exco to again compromise and abandon the party in 2027 to their new paymasters.


Captain Joe Agada media team invites all to note that the position of State party chairman is too critical at a time like this for anyone to be going about laying claims to any imaginary endorsement. It is in the best interest of the party for every candidate to test his or her popularity at the polls, Captain Joe Agada media team further said.

A

In recent days, the CBN is again in the news for the chaotic events surrounding the mass transfer of staff to various outstations and more recently for the sacking of some of its elite staff under a so-called restructuring exercise.

Again, the Governor, Olayemi Cardoso is at the centre of the storm, but little has been said about the man behind the chaos – Bala Bello, Deputy Governor – Corporate Services.

Bala’s meteoric rise from a mediocre career background to becoming a deputy to the CBN Governor is a modern Machiavellian narrative on how the corridors of powers in Nigeria’s highest institutions can be easily accessed by corporate bandits using their political connections.

In January 2003, the then CBN Governor, Chief Joseph Sanusi conducted a recruitment exercise to bring into the Bank, the very best graduate officers to power the strategic transformation of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The project EAGLES initiative was the starting point from which the CBN would emerge as Nigeria’s premier public institution.



That January, a total of 40,000 candidates were shortlisted to write the aptitude tests for various vacancies at the CBN. Joseph Sanusi ensured that the recruitment exercise was conducted with the highest possible level of integrity. He refused to allow the political elite impose candidates on him resulting in the hiring of the top 400 (1%) of the shortlisted candidates.

The sons and daughters of nobodies became employees of Nigeria’s elite public institution.

This cohort would become the driving force for implementing change at the CBN. Bala Bello also participated in the 2003 recruitment exercise; however, he fell out of the race having failed to make the cutoff mark after the first aptitude test was conducted. Surprisingly, twenty years later, Bala Bello was appointed Deputy Governor at the same Bank.

How Bala’s career progression surpassed that of his intellectual superiors is in every sense the story of how political hustlers take control of public institutions and end up in positions of power far beyond their capacities. The highest ranking members of the 2003 cohort had only attained the cadre of deputy directors.

In less than a year of being Deputy Governor, Bala has taken the desecration of the CBN to new lows. Following Joseph Sanusi’s tenure, the CBN has had four Governors: Charles Soludo, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Godwin Emefiele and Olayemi Cardoso.

Professor Soludo continued the new culture of meritorious recruitment and brought in another generation of high achieving graduate officers. Vacancies for available positions were publicised in national newspapers, shortlists were made considering academic qualifications and federal character, aptitude tests and interviews were conducted objectively. This resulted in the employment of Nigerian citizens who had no godfathers into Nigeria’s apex bank.



The coming of Sanusi Lamido changed the culture of meritorious recruitment. Sanusi Lamido stopped the open and transparent recruitment culture and brought in friends and family. He hired people into various cadres of the Bank and particularly brought in a large cohort of Directors and Deputy directors that would subsequently take over the leadership of the CBN. This was a turning point in the Bank’s strategic direction.

Godwin Emefiele also continued this trend of nepotism. The floodgates of recruitment at the CBN were made wide open to all. The Bank hired staff weekly, however Emefiele’s recruitment differed from Sanusi Lamido’s as Emefiele mostly brought in staff to fill lower graduate officer positions. Hence it can be observed the decadence in the top leadership positions were largely because of Lamido Sanusi’s mismanagement.

Olayemi Cardoso resumed office to face these staffing nightmares. As Emefiele’s leadership had become synonymous with high-handedness and political misadventures, the mess needed to be cleared, however a General is only as good as his lieutenants.

Instead of a mature and experienced deputy to oversee these critical staff issues, Cardoso was given Bala Bello. An inexperienced, anger prone, tribalist with suspected psychotic tendencies.

Bala Bello as Deputy Governor, Corporate Services gave him responsibility over Human Resources, Procurement Services, Finance, Security Services, Legal Services, Capacity Development and Corporate Communications.

This wide portfolio would be entrusted to an unqualified individual whose actions have thrown the CBN into another shameful public maelstrom.

To understand the present chaos at the CBN and how it can be attributed to Bala Bello, we need to investigate his antecedents at the Nigeria Export Import Bank (NEXIM) where he served similarly as the Executive Director, Corporate Services.

Prior to joining NEXIM, Bala was unemployed for four years. His previous employer Sigma Pensions had let him go, for reasons that have been rumoured to be related to his alleged involvement in fraudulent activities.

How Bala Bello ended up being nominated by the past administration to becoming an Executive Director at NEXIM is a testimony to how profitable political hustling can be in Nigeria.

Bala’s reign at NEXIM is like his current reign at the CBN. In one word, it was chaos!

He oversaw the dismissal of several staff members without due process (this ensured that he instilled a culture of fear at NEXIM), He hijacked the medical services and handed it to a ‘friendly’ HMO, he only worked with acting directors (this ensured that his direct reports were lackeys whom could not challenge his decisions),

He allegedly awarded service contracts to related entities and successfully subverted his then Boss, the Director General of NEXIM.

At the CBN, Bala has replicated the same formula that he successfully implemented at the CBN. This has been done in the following ways.



1. On resumption at the CBN, he cancelled the registration of all accredited contractors even though they were yet to come to the end of their two-year tenure. He then registered a new set of contracting firms. These new entities included registered enterprises and ventures rather than solely limited liability companies as stated in the CBN’s procurement policies.

2. He has awarded contracts beyond his approval limits.

3. He transferred staff away from the procurement services at the head office to various outstations and replaced them with lackeys that do his bidding. The Department has been stripped of virtually all senior southerners and northern Christians.

4. He has terminated the appointment of Directors and other executive cadre staff without board approval as stipulated in the CBN act.

5. He has terminated the appointment of other staff cadres without due process. The so-called restructuring exercise at the CBN has been conducted without any legal remit from the CBN Board, without any terms of reference and stated objectives and set criteria.

6. The terminated CBN staff have been majorly southerners (Christian and Muslims) and northern Christians. These form over 90% of those affected.

7. Contrary to the Bank’s policy on the non-permission of employment of siblings, Bala’s biological brother is also in the employment of the CBN and remains untouched by the transfers and appointment terminations.

8. Since his appointment, no Directors have been appointed. He has kept all vacant departments under the leadership of acting directors, who are afraid to displease him out of fear of not being appointed as full directors or fear of sacking.

9. He has overpowered his principal (Cardoso) likely using blackmail tactics. This was allegedly achieved by getting his principal to approve policy changes and renumeration increases without due processes such as board approvals.

10. The appointment terminations have particularly targeted the highflyers recruited by Chief Joseph Sanusi. Bala has come to haunt his intellectual superiors and ensure that he has no opposition from any CBN staff. The last has made himself first. He has put himself in the position of determining the future leadership of Nigeria’s apex bank.



From all indications, the travails of the CBN will likely continue to the near future.

The Bank’s strategic direction has been abandoned, its culture of ethics and professionalism have been trounced and replaced with a culture of fear and indifference. Staff no longer see themselves as stakeholders in the Bank, like sheep without a shepherd. This loss of faith in the CBN by its staff is like what has happened across commercial banks in Nigeria where their staff abandoned loyalty to their employers. This is the chief reason behind the high incidence of fraud in Nigerian banks. The CBN cannot afford to have the same culture of disloyalty.

Olayemi Cardoso must take the bull by the horns and drag the CBN from the mud of mediocrity that Bala Bello has dunked it in.

Cardoso must decide what his legacy will be, whether he will continue to be dribbled by this young rascal or whether he will chart the part of humble service and return to the meritocratic roots planted by Chief Joseph Sanusi.



Cardoso must revisit every single staff termination decision and verify if such decisions were made in good faith or were an act of malice. He must seek reconciliation over recrimination.



The CBN will soon be plagued with a barrage of court cases as affected staff will seek redress in the halls of justice and possibly in mud slinging halls of social media. The investigations by both arms of the National Assembly is just the start.

The CBN, President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria do not need another round of international embarrassment. It would be wise for Cardoso to pursue the healing of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

*Will Cardoso be the healer, or will he be the cancer?*

Time will tell.

We are all watching.



31.05.2024



A concerned CBN staff



Source: https://naijagg.com/exposing-bala-bello-the-puppeteer-behind-the-staff-chaos-at-the-central-bank-of-nigeria/

Jackson Ude, anti-corruption activist has accused a Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bala Bello, of academic fraud.


In a post on X on Monday, titled "BALA BELLO: THE MOST PADDED ACADEMIC FRAUD IN CBN!", Jackson Ude said "The Deputy Governor, Corporate, of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Bala Bello, is an academic fraud. He managed to obtain a Bachelor degree from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, but has all through been lying that he has an MBA from same institution. Bello should provide the date he enrolled for the MBA program and the date he graduated. He should make his certificate public. Aye e ti fe ba je ba yi oo."

"Not done with his academic fraud, Bello tells his friends and associates that he has a PhD. On his CBN profile, he listed the PhD as Honoris Causa from some obscure and unknown universities one of which is from Republic of Benin, a haven for fake universities. Bello should tell us how much he paid for those Honoris Causa. Aye e ti fe ba je ba yi ooo.
Commonwealth University where Bello bought another PhD Honoris Causa has been declared fake by the Federal Government during the Mohammadu Buhari’s time.
Bello has no Master’s degree, has no PhD but he is busy sacking Masters and PhD holders from the CBN who got those jobs through merit.
I will wait for Bello to respond before I him to the garbage bin!" Jackson Ude further said.



Source: https://naijagg.com/jackson-ude-accuses-cbn-deputy-governor-bala-bello-of-academic-fraud/