₦airaland Forum

Eight out of the nine screened and cleared national chairmanship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party are today competing to get the support of the 2,233 delegates who are voting at the party’s national convention, which holds on Saturday (today).



The list of the delegates was exclusively obtained by our correspondent in Abuja on Friday.

The aspirants are Prince Uche Secondus, Chief Gbenga Daniel, Mr. Jimi Agbaje, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, Prof. Taoheed Adedoja, Prof. Tunde Adeniran, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, Mr. Aderemi Olusegun and Chief Olabode George, who later withdrew from the race on Friday evening.

The list shows that Abia has 90 delegates, Adamawa, 56; Akwa Ibom, 140; Anambra, 20; Bauchi, 53; Benue, 69; Borno, 63; Cross River, 86; Delta, 105 and Ebonyi, 80.

Others are Edo, 61; Ekiti, 92; Enugu, 101; Gombe, 64; Imo, 79; Jigawa, 65; Kaduna, 70; Kano, 100; Katsina, 76; Kebbi, 48; Kogi, 63; Kwara, 22; Lagos, 55; Nasarawa, 42; Niger, 63; Ogun, 61; and Ondo, 56.


The rest are Osun, 11; Oyo, 71; Plateau, 56; Rivers, 93; Sokoto, 51; Taraba, 77; Yobe, 44; Zamfara, 34; and the Federal Capital Territory, 24.

It was gathered that the number of delegates from Osun State was small because of the inconclusiveness of the congresses in the state.

His relevance will fizzle out soon

South west will surely dump the carcass of PDP after the convention tomorrow,why has fayose suddenly gone mute.wike has pocketed PDP..so he can manipulate secondus and will be given the vice president

After Atiku defeat una go cry marginalization !!!!! Igbo's are the most disorganized sets of people.

This side chick has suddenly join wailers association of Afirica

18m votes loading for buhari,quote me and receive fire!!!!!!

President Muhammadu Buhari has explained the rationale behind the message at his inaugural address: ‘I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody’.

The President who is in Kano State on a two-day working visit said he made the statement in 2015 as a result of his experience in the country.

“My problem is Nigeria and I have been involved in almost all the instability Nigeria experienced: the civil war, the coups, and counter-coups,” he said on Wednesday night during a state dinner held in his honour.

“That was why I said during my swearing-in that ‘I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody’. Nigeria is my target and I will continue to maintain focus”.

A statement issued on Thursday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, said President Buhari further reaffirmed that the message would continue to guide his stewardship to the Nigerian people.

He was also full of thanks and gratitude to the government and people of Kano for the massive reception that greeted his arrival in the state.

According to him, the warm and peaceful reception is “a message to the opposition” that his popularity in the region remains unshaken.

“I am overwhelmed with the massive reception I have received and definitely since this is partisan politics, I think it has sent a clear message to the opposition.

“Even going by the details of the election results in 2003, 2007 and 2011, it was very clear that nobody could even dare to rig my scores from the elections in Kano.

“It has been so consistent and I don’t think I have the vocabulary to express my thanks to the people of Kano.

“I am very grateful to God and the people of Kano for the complete trust you have in me,” the President said.

He said that during his drive around the city to commission several projects on Wednesday, he observed that many of those who thronged the road to welcome him were very young people.

He further promised that as a person in a position of authority, his priority was to provide a meaningful future for the teeming youths in Nigeria through education as well as the faithful management of the economy and resources.

President Buhari congratulated Governor Abdullahi Ganduje on his development strides in the state and asked other political office holders to emulate and support the governor.

He also described Ganduje as is “a great politician”, adding “I am afraid I am still learning.”

Oga be creative and look inward

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has blasted civil servants in the state, describing them as architects of delay in salary payment through their falsification of wage bill to accommodate ghost workers.

Ikpeazu, who expressed his frustration over the bloated wage bill at his quarterly interaction with the people of the state in Aba, the state’s commercial hub, said that when compared with Ebonyi State where N900 million is used to settle all salaries of workers including pensioners, Abia is battling to make use of N2.1billion for just settlement of workers’ salaries.

“The greatest enemies of the civil servants are the civil servants themselves. Who are the people that change figures and change dates? Who are the people that manage the pension in the first place? It is the workers that manage the pension and make it unavailable for the pensioners. I cannot be battling to pay N2.1billion for salaries while my brother in Ebonyi is just using N900 million to pay everybody, including pensioners.

“When we came, we inherited a wage bill of about N2.6 billion, but by asking workers to show us BVN, we were able to reduce it to 2.1billion which means that some people were stealing N500million every month before we discovered it.

Workers in Abia State are 39,000 MDAs (Ministries, Departments and Agencies) are 21,000 and local government workers are 18,000. “Now, in which local government will you find up to 1,000 workers? This shows that there are still ghost workers. We are doing thumb printing for workers. We have a device and we are working with consultant from America that is helping us to look at who comes to work and who doesn’t come. Some people who live overseas are paid salaries in Aba South and it must stop.”

Adding his voice on the salary saga in the state, the State’s Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Obinna Oriaku, claimed that Abia is owing because the state’s salary rate and wage bill are actually higher than any other state in the South-East.

“Yesterday, I decided to take analysis of what each state does in the South-East and it is very surprising that Abia pays the highest. Before we came in, a permanent secretary here earned N635,800… Today, it is about N520, 000. In Enugu, a permanent secretary takes home N290, 000; in Anambra it’s N350, 000, in Imo it’s between 300, 000 and 370,000.”
Beside Oriaku, the governor was accompanied to the quarterly interaction by the Commissioner for Works, Eziuche Ubani and the Commissioner for Agriculture, Barr Uzo

Okoroawusa:
So if we examine u now we will see no sin?

Repent I dey tell u now,stop sinning bro

Okoroawusa:
Abeg go siddon

Repent my friend,don't continue in ur sinful ways,vanity all is vanity

Fulfilment that the rapture is near,so quit your sins and come to Jesus now

Fulfilment of biblical prophecy

Wike puppet

Kelechibliss@gmail.com

Desperado .as long Obj is alive,u can never rule in naija

Una dey make me laugh,come to Rivers state and see how thousands are defecting and joining this two paries everyday yet una wan die for mete commissioners .I just pity atiku.by 2019,we will send him back to Adamawa as a statesman

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that the leaders and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are working for the emergence of a National Chairman who will drive the party to electoral victory in 2019.

He said all stakeholders are building to re-position the PDP, noting that no zone has been left out in the political equation.

Speaking when he granted audience to a National Chairmanship Aspirant of the PDP, Chief Raymond Dokpesi at the Government House Port Harcourt on Sunday, Governor Wike also berated those calling for the micro-zoning of the National Chairmanship position . He said the position was zoned to the entire South.

He said: “No region has been left out. PDP is not in power. PDP is an opposition party. We are working for a chairman that will drive PDP and make PDP to win elections.

“The chairman is not going to share contracts to any zone for you to say a particular zone is left out. It is only when a government is formed that you talk about a zone being left out”

He said that he will join other stakeholders to ensure that PDP emerges victorious in future elections.

The governor charged PDP members to remain vigilant as APC is working round the clock to sow seeds of discord amongst party members.

He reiterated that he has no intention to vie for the position of Vice President , saying that as a first term governor he is focused on the delivery of good governance to Rivers people.

“I am a first term governor. How can I leave my state to go and vie for the post of Vice President?”, he said.

He urged National Chairmanship Aspirants to use their campaigns to mobilise for the party.

Earlier, National Chairmanship Aspirant, Chief Raymond Dokpesi called for the creation of level playing field for all aspirants.

He said that only the best candidate should emerge to lead the PDP after the National Convention.

He solicited the support of the Rivers State Governor and Rivers delegates of the PDP to the National Convention.

the truth be told .PMB can never loose the presidential election in 2019.PMB is like a mini god in the north,he is loved and popular.
In 2003 He got 12.7m votes as ANPP candidate(2nd position)
In 2007 he got 6.6m votes in ANPP candidate(2nd position)
In 2011 he got 12 m votes in CPC candidate(2nd position)
In 2015 he got 15.2m votes As APC candidate(1st position)
In 2019 he will get 18m votes,***mark my word*****
Statistic shows he wins some northern states even kano since 2003.
Atiku has always been a serial defector,moving without motion.kwankwaso is even better than him.
He who chose to wail,will surely wail an ocean until after 2023 when an Igbo man will be the president.PDP can never rule Nigeria til 2030

Chai,after Churchill don bleep this ass finish

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that deliberate efforts by agents of the APC Federal Government to de-market Rivers State are counter-productive to the interest of the nation.

Speaking at a state dinner organised for the contestants of Miss University Africa Beauty Pageant on Friday at the Government House Port Harcourt, Governor Wike regretted the unnecessary acts of sabotage by agents of the APC Federal Government when it comes to hosting national and international events in the state.

He said: “If you de-market Rivers State that produces the wealth of the country, then you are de-marketing Nigeria.

“The fear they have is because we are delivering, while they are not performing. They don’t want the world to see the transformation taking place here”.

He specifically cited the efforts made to stop the African Wrestling Championship from holding in the state and the plots to stop the Minister of Sports from participating in the just concluded Governor Wike National Wrestling Championship.

He said that Rivers State is open to investors as his administration has created the enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

“We are willing to partner with investors in the areas of agriculture, skills development and other key areas”, he said.

The governor noted that the contestants of the Beauty Pageant from the 54 countries of Africa are the greatest marketers of Rivers State as they will continue to promote the state long after the competition.

While urging the contestants to also focus on education, Governor Wike said women have the capacity to compete in all human endeavours. He said under no circumstances should women beg for placements as they have the requirements to struggle and win political and economic contests.

Earlier, the Coordinator of Miss University Africa Beauty Pageant, Mr Taylor Nazzal said the pageant will project Rivers State positively to the entire continent.

He lauded Governor Wike for creating unity in diversity by hosting African Queens from the 54 countries.

Speaking on behalf of diplomats, Namibian Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Peingeondjabi T. Shipoh, said that all African Missions in the country will join Governor Wike in developing the state through the invitation of key investors.

Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Sir Kenneth Kobani in a remark said that Rivers State is witnessing rapid growth because of the leadership of Governor Wike and the right investments his administration has made in peace and security.

The night was laced with traditional dances, comedy and contemporary music.

The Wife of the Rivers State Governor, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike led the African Queens for dinner, while toasts were said for the contestants, Rivers State and Nigeria.

Only the vote in kano will clear all states in south east.while votes in Bornu and kastina will clear south south.buhari will still win

Atiku is a collosal failure

Only wike can fund pdp

Poor Atiku Abubakar. Every time he gets set to run for the highest office in the land, some invisible but sturdy obstacles are rolled on the way. His political opponents and their friends will reel off a legion of reasons why he should not run. Some will simply say in a most damning manner that he is not fit for the job; a former vice-president not qualified for the number one job?

He has been derided for changing parties- as if he is the only notable politician who does this routinely. He has just jumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) ship. There are speculations that he plans to rejoin the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). That common action has attracted attacks and derisive jokes.

On the social media has suddenly appeared a caricature of the Turaki Adamawa, smiling, in a doctor’s clinic, a heart monitoring equipment strapped onto his chest and a blood pressure cutt on his arm. The caption: “Atiku undergoing medicals at PDP Headquarters in Abuja. On free transfer.” Some soccer buffs at work, no doubt.

It is, I dare say, a big credit to his tenacity and sense of purpose that Atiku, like a marathoner, stays the course. He keeps throwing his hat in the ring.



There seems to be a problem of perception, his minders may have told him. He recently challenged anybody who insists that he is corrupt to come out with the proof or remain quiet forever. Again, to his credit, nobody has accepted that simple challenge.

Atiku plans to pick the PDP ticket and give President Muhammadu Buhari a run for his money in 2019. Buhari has not said he will run? Will Atiku get the ticket? Nobody can tell, for sure.

As usual, there have been suggestions, propositions and postulations on how the Turaki should go about his life-long ambition. Of all such suggestions, the most striking seems to be from former President Goodluck Jonathan. He asked Atiku to beg former President Olusegun Obasanjo – Atiku was the vice – president in the Obasanjo presidency – if he must realise his ambition. Obasanjo and Atiku had a turbulent relationship that almost cost the former a fresh tenure.

The story is told of how Obasanjo grovelled before Atiku to get the governors’ support ahead of the crucial PDP convention. Those who claim to know Baba Iyabo closely – they are few, I am told – have sworn that was sacrilegious. The Ebora Owu, they stress, would surely take his pound of flesh in a bigger measure. He takes no prisoner.

The Jonathan advice sparked a round of questions and speculations. Why should Atiku beg Obasanjo? What is his offence? Does anybody need Obasanjo’s endorsement? Will he speak for potential voters? Is the PDP ticket in Obasanjo’s pocket? Did Jonathan prostrate for Obasanjo when he wanted to run?

The questions are so many. Some of them are ridiculous; others simply absurd. Besides, many have been suggesting how a meeting of Obasanjo and Atiku will go, if it ever happens. Here is one of such imaginary scenarios of such a meeting:

Obasanjo springs up from a seat in his expansive sitting room as soon as Atiku is ushered in. He smiles briefly and offers a handshake. Atiku throws himself at him for a hug.

“Please, sit down. Good to see you again. I’m sorry I couldn’t give an earlier appointment. I’ve been travelling. The problem in Zimbabwe, Kenya and so many others. Anyway, what brings you this time?”

“Baba, I thank you for your time, for receiving me despite your tight schedule. I won’t take much of your precious time sir. I bring peace. You’re our leader; our pillar. We do not think it will be wise to take any important step without informing you and carrying you along. In this country today, nobody can say you don’t count. You are not just an ordinary person; you’re an elder statesman. And…”

Obasanjo cuts in, raising his right hand. “Please, go into the specific. What exactly do you want? That long introduction seems to be confusing. Straight to the point.”

“Baba, I’m running and I wish to get your blessing.”

Smiling, Obasanjo looks straight at Atiku, his visage betraying some incredulity. “You ’re running? Where to? Why? Is anybody pursuing you?”

“No Baba. I’m planning to contest the presidency on the platform of our great party, the PDP. And I am honoured and privileged to be telling you this so that I can receive your blessing. Former President Jonathan and many other eminent Nigerians have advised me to visit you and settle whatever differences we may have. This is my mission sir.”

“Hee he. Jonathan asked you to come here? Am I in their party? Please, I’m a statesman. I announced it that I’m no longer a politician. When I resigned from PDP or whatever they call themselves, I didn’t do corner corner o. I tore their card. So, if that boy, em…eeem…eeeem… Jona, is telling you to come and you’re coming here, is he sincere? I remain a farmer and a statesman. One million Atikus can’t change that whether they are running or walking or flying. I’m sorry, Mr Atiku.”

“You seem to be getting it all wrong sir. I’m not asking you to come out of retirement and campaign for me. No. I’m only informing you and asking you to bless me so that I can succeed.”

“Again, I’m not a politician. Are you listening? I’m too honest and frank to remain in that circle – of lies, backstabbing, intrigues and corruption. Deceit. No. I’m done. My politics now is Nigeria. Anybody who says Nigeria will not rise and move forward, I am ready to go konkobilo with that person. So, oga, that is my position.”

“Baba, I salute your sincerity – and courage. You are not the type who will deceive anybody to score cheap political points. You’re blunt. There are many of us in the race. That is why I crave your endorsement. You must have an opinion on this important matter.”

“Yes. I have heard that some of you are warming up. I’m not the type that fears. I have my opinion on each and everyone of you. The other boy (wetin be im name now o?). Obasanjo scratches it aggressively. He looks up and continues.

“Makarfi. Yes; I hear he too wants to contest. I know he used to be governor of Kaduna. He was a senator. And now chairman of what they call Caretaker Committee. Hmmm…

“Sule Lamido is my boy, but dem say he get baggage. And you know Buhari is a soldier. He will simply ambush him and that will be the end of the matter.

“Buhari sef. I said so that he will not steal. He will fight corruption and jail all the thieves making noise and gallivanting all over the place. But Buhari may not do well in the economy. I said so. No be so?”

“Baba, I thank you for your insight. The words of our elders… . Do I take it that I have your blessing to pick the PDP ticket for 2019?”

Hmm…hmmmm…hmm (Obasanjo clears his thrioat). “PDP my foot. I don’t care who gets the PDP ticket. Dat one na dem toro. I’m not a member and I don’t plan to be one. Let them sell it or give it or dash it to whoever they like. Me o, Olusegun Aremu Okikiola Obasanjo, I don’t care. A statesman I will remain. I thank you for visiting.”

A crowd of reporters and photographers have set up a camp outside the door. As Obasanjo and his guest emerge from the main house, they spring up onto their feet and rushed towards them.

“Baba, good afternoon. How are you sir?”

Obasanjo, smiling without showing his teeth:”I dey kampe, as you can see.”

“How did the meeting go?”

“Which meeting? No meeting o. You know Christmas will soon be here. The former VP came to wish me merry Christmas. Is anything wrong with that? And I wish you all Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.”

After a handshake with Obasanjo, Atiku walks briskly towards his car, adjusting his agbada. The reporters rush to catch up with him.

“Sir, how did it go? Is it true you came to tell Baba to support your ambition? Did he promise to back you?”

“Baba has spoken and that is all. I have no comments – for now. Have a nice day, my friends.”

An aide opens the door. Atiku jumps in and the car rolls out of the large compound.

Can this be true