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On Friday, the Nigerian media abuzz with reactions and statements after news of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen filtered in.

PoliticsNGR was furnished with a statement from the President, Muhammadu Buhari, detailing reasons for suspending the embattled CJN. Below are 5 things the President said about Onnoghen;

Suspicious transactions were discovered

“Although the allegations in the petition are grievous enough in themselves, the security agencies have since then traced other suspicious transactions running into millions of dollars to the CJN’s personal accounts, all undeclared or improperly declared as required by law.”

Onnoghen admitted to the Charges

“Perhaps more worrisome is the Chief Justice of Nigeria’s own written admission to the charges that he indeed failed to follow the spirit and letter of the law in declaring his assets, citing ’’mistake’’ and ’’forgetfulness’’ which are totally unknown to our laws as defences in the circumstances of his case,”.

Onnoghen's legal team frustrated the CCT trial

“the nation has been treated to the sordid spectacle of a judicial game of wits in which the Chief Justice of Nigeria and his legal team have made nonsense of the efforts of the Code of Conduct Tribunal to hear the allegation on merit and conclude the trial as quickly as possible”


Onnoghen influenced the court

“Whether deliberately or inadvertently, we have all seen the full weight of the Chief Justice of Nigeria descend on the tender head of one of the organs of justice under his control. There is simply no way the officers of that court, from the Chairman to the bailiffs, can pretend to be unaffected by the influence of the leader of the Judiciary.”


Under his watch, the Supreme Court has been releasing people accused of corruption

“It is no secret that this government is dissatisfied with the alarming rate in which the Supreme Court of Nigeria under the oversight of Justice Walter Onnoghen has serially set free, persons accused of the most dire acts of corruption, often on mere technicalities, and after quite a number of them have been convicted by the trial and appellate courts.”

https://politicsngr.com/5-things-president-buhari-said-suspended-cjn-walter-onnoghen/

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Senator Ben Murray Bruce has attacked Former Minister and Ex-Presidential candidate, Oby Ezekwesili over her criticism of President Muhammadu Buhari over the recent suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen.

He accused her of contributing to this development adding that she was shedding crocodile tears because she had fallen out with the President. He wrote;

"Dear @obyezeks, you supported @MBuhari when he started his war against the judiciary in 2016. On this same Twitter, I warned you and others like you that if you praised him then, you are only encouraging him to do worse. You contributed to this Oby".

"You clapped in 2016 when the war against the judiciary began. Today, because you have fallen out with the tyrant you are shedding crocodile tears? Have some decency and save what is left of your tattered reputation. People like you brought us to this point with your gullibility."

https://politicsngr.com/crocodile-tears-ben-bruce-attacks-oby-ezekwesili-cjn-suspension/

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The Alliance for New Nigeria(ANN) and the Young Progressives Party(YPP), have isued a joint Statement on Friday regarding the formation of a Coalition Force for the 2019 general Elections.

Below is the full statement made available to PoliticsNGR signed by the National Chairman of ANN, Emmanuel Dania and the National Chairman of the YPP, Comrade Bishop Amakiri;

"The political landscape of Nigeria is beginning to get the much desired clarity with few weeks to the general elections thereby giving all patriotic stakeholders the opportunity to take informed decisions that will herald a political direction different from the status quo.

Nigeria is in dire need of a paradigm shift and this cannot happen by wishful thinking but through conscious efforts by selfless Nigerians to disrupt the system in order to end the combined 19 years of inept leadership of the PDP and APC, which no doubt has kept us in this present socio-economic and political shackles with no solution in sight anytime soon.

Only those benefiting from the current dysfunctional system will be satisfied with the state of our nation as virtually all economic indices seem to be on a downward spiral with high rate of inflation, unemployment, poverty, insecurity are the resultant effects on the psyche and living standards of Nigerians.

It is in a bid to end the aforementioned trend and change the current narrative that the joint leadership of the Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN) and Young Progressives Party (YPP) after painstaking deliberation, decided in the interest of the nation to forge a formidable coalition known as “the Force” in order to help salvage our great country from those who have held it hostage for far too long.

The Force is expected to be a political point of convergence for all those who truly desire to take back Nigeria from the establishment and birth A NEW NIGERIA.

While we understand the enormity of the task ahead considering that our failed leaders will not let go without a fight, our conviction is however anchored on the strength of the over 88 million Nigerians living below the poverty mark of $1.90 per day to decide the fate of our oppressors through their votes.

Furthermore, the Force will in the coming days present a consensus candidate in the February 16, 2019 Presidential election as a mark of our collective resolve to give Nigerians a credible alternative away from the past when Nigerians are faced with the dilemma of choosing between two undesirables.

We also want to bring to the attention of Nigerians the ongoing engagement with other ideological driven Political Parties that are neither with the APC nor PDP with the aim of further consolidating on the gains already made.

Conclusively, while some may want to query the timing of our action, our response is simple; “it is not too late to save Nigeria and there is no better time to save her than NOW”."

https://politicsngr.com/2019-elections-ann-ypp-issue-joint-statement-coalition-force/

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The Muslim Rights Concern group has announced its support for the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Nkanu Onnoghen.

President Muhammadu Buhari suspended Justice Walter Onnoghen as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) earlier today and swore in Justice Muhammed Tanko as the Acting CJN. This followed an exparte motion granted by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) on Wednesday 23rd January, 2019.

Reacting barely two hours after the suspension of the former CJN, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) described the suspension as timely and necessary in order to safeguard democracy. MURIC’s reaction was contained in a terse statement issued and signed by the director of the human rights organization, Professor Ishaq Akintola, on Friday 25th January, 2019.

According to MURIC, “The former CJN has lost the confidence of Nigerians. He has seriously tarnished the image of the judiciary. No serious government can retain such a character at the helm of its judicial system. Those who sit on the bench must choose between being gold merchants or agents of the bureau de change and being lords temporal.

“It is too dangerous to approach a general election with a character like the former CJN breathing down the neck of Nigerian judges. A man who is in love with bales of foreign currencies and wads of naira cannot have the courage to look away if tempted again. Onnoghen can only benefit corrupt candidates, opposition parties who have benefited and are still benefiting most from corruption as well as unscrupulous litigants who are hoping to get crooked court decisions.

“We therefore give his suspension full backing and unreserved support. Mr. President has acted in the interest of Nigeria and to preserve the good name of the judiciary. Whoever thinks otherwise should have a good explanation of where those strange lodgements into Onnoghen’s accounts came from. The fate of the former CJN should serve as a lesson for Nigerian judges. The judiciary must be fully integrated into the war against corruption if this country is going to be rid of corruption”."

https://politicsngr.com/support-suspension-cjn-onnoghen-muslim-rights-group-muric/

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Governorship Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Ogun State, Adekunle Akinlade was seen recently campaigning with President Muhammadu Buhari's picture.

Akinlade's Supporters were seen carrying Placards with his Picture beside that of the President, who is a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

PoliticsNGR has the footage. Watch the video HERE

https://politicsngr.com/apm-governorship-candidate-campaigns-buharis-picture-video/

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The United States of America and the United Kingdom have released statements on the upcoming 2019 Elections, announcing severe repercussions for electoral violence and election interference.

Both statements made available to PoliticsNGR  demanded that the Elections be Free and fair adding that it was crucial to Africa as a whole.

The US mission in Nigeria, in its statement disclosed; "The conduct of the upcoming elections in Nigeria is important not only for Nigeria, but for the African continent.

"The United States government does not support any specific candidate or party in Nigeria’s upcoming elections.  The United States supports the Nigerian democratic process itself.  We support a genuinely free, fair, transparent, and peaceful electoral process. "

"We, and other democratic nations, will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere in the democratic process or instigate violence against the civilian population before, during, or after the elections.  We will not hesitate to consider consequences - including visa restrictions - for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.  Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations may also lead to restrictions on family members."

"We welcome the signing of peace pledges by Nigerian candidates and their commitment to a peaceful electoral process."

The UK in its own statement, pointed out; "23 days to the Presidential and National Assembly elections and 37 days to the Gubernatorial and State Assembly elections, the British High Commission in Abuja would like to reaffirm our strong support for free, fair and peaceful elections in Nigeria."We and our international partners remain committed supporters of Nigeria’s democracy. We do not support any party or individual and believe that the Nigerian people should be able to choose their leaders in an environment free from hate speech and insecurity."

"We continue to provide significant support to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission and to Nigerian civil society to help them deliver credible elections. We also regularly engage with actors across the political spectrum to encourage them to respect electoral rules and maintain an atmosphere of peace and calm."

"We will be deploying an extensive observation mission for the forthcoming elections, including coordinating with the EU’s Election Observation Mission. Our monitors will in particular be looking out for any attempts to encourage or use violence to influence the elections, including on social media. We would like to remind all Nigerians that where the UK is aware of such attempts, this may have consequences for individuals. These could include their eligibility to travel to the UK, their ability to access UK based funds or lead to prosecution under international law."

"The UK is a friend and partner of Nigeria. We hope our continued support will play a role in helping Nigeria take a further step towards consolidating the progress made since democracy returned in 1999."

https://politicsngr.com/us-uk-reveal-will-happen-2019-elections-manipulated-violent/

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44

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Spokesman of the Muhammadu Buhari 2019 Campaign, Festus Keyamo has reacted to the recent endorsement of President Muhammadu Buhari by the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria, ACPN.

Earlier today, PoliticsNGR reported that the Presidential Candidate of the ACPN, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili announced her withdrawal from the presidential race, a move that has currently divided the party. Her running mate, Ganiyu Galadima along with other members of the party distanced themselves from her and announced their support for the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Reacting to the development, Keyamo wrote on Social Media;

"Thanks, ACPN, for seeing the light we saw long ago.

We beseech the respect ed Oby Ezekwesili to join hands now with PMB. The coalition we need in Nig is a coalition against corruption, not a coalition against any political party.

PMB is already leading the pack against corruption."

https://politicsngr.com/buhari-spokesman-keyamo-reacts-acpns-endorsement-buhari/

cc: lalasticlala, mynd44

Watch the Video HERE

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A Huge crowd has welcomed President Muhammadu Buhari into Anambra State as he campaigns for a second term.

President Buhari also commissioned the new Zik Masoleum in the state. It will be recalled that the Governor of the state, Willie Ibiano is a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.

PoliticsNGR has footage from the scene in Onitsha, Watch HERE

https://politicsngr.com/crowd-welcomes-president-buhari-anambra-chant-sai-baba-watch/

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Information reaching the PoliticsNGR newsdesk now reveals that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has turned down the withdrawal request of the Presidential Candidate of ACPN, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili.

The Electoral Body explained that it was acting on the Electoral Act which stipulates that a candidate would only withdraw from the race no less that 45 days to the date of elections.

Mrs. Ezekwesili announced her withdrawal from the Presidential race earlier today. A move that has elicited mixed reactions from Nigerians with many questioning her motives for the action.

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-inec-blocks-ezekwesilis-withdrawal-presidential-race/

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Below is a Press statement from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP made available to PoliticsNGR;

"The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says the concerns raised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, detailing President Muhammadu Buhari’s scheme to use apparatus of state power to subjugate Nigerians, undermine our democratic system, subvert the electoral process and perpetuate himself in office, have further vindicated its stand that Mr. President is out for a self-succession plot.

Obasanjo’s submission has also reinforced our position that President Buhari, and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), having realized that there is no way he can win in a free and fair election, is now besieging all democratic institutions, including the Judiciary, the Legislature, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), while engaging in acts that threaten the unity, peace and corporate existence of our dear nation.

The whole world can see how President Buhari and APC’s desperation for power is putting the lives of over 200 million Nigerian citizens at great risk as their actions stoke violence and push our dear nation to the precipice.

We are however not surprised that the APC, a party that has shown that it is completely anti-people, quickly rose in defence of the Buhari Presidency’s assault on our democratic order. The APC has always been a deceptive soulless mob that would rather have our nation burn than to be out of power.

President Obasanjo’s concern is therefore a clarion call to all compatriots, irrespective of ethnic, religious and political affiliations to rise in defence of our democracy.

He has reinforced the fact that this nation belong to all of us; that our pride as a people lies in our resilience and globally acclaimed ability to rise above and defeat every situation that challenges our nationhood.

The PDP therefore calls on all Nigerians to be at alert at this critical time to stop President Buhari and the APC on their anti-democratic trails with our votes.

We should never allow anybody to set our nation on fire just to achieve selfish ambitions. We must eschew all our differences and unite in using our votes to take back our country from this dwindling, incompetent, ineffectual, corrupt and anti-people administration.

If we don’t take action with our votes, we would be giving up our nation to totalitarian forces at our own peril and those of generations yet unborn."

https://politicsngr.com/just-in-pdp-reacts-to-obasanjos-attack-on-buhari/

Cc: lalasticlala, mynd44

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President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja appealed for accommodation and tolerance among cattle herders and farmers throughout the country.

Speaking at the State House when he received the leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association on Nigeria, MACBAN, on a courtesy visit, the President appealed for calm among all citizens, saying that his government will give equal respect to all citizens irrespective of their ethnic, religious and geopolitical backgrounds.

According to President Buhari, “I appeal to all farmers and herders for restraint, mutual respect and tolerance for one another as people destined to live together in this great country. I appeal for patience and understanding as the administration works towards lasting solutions to these conflicts.”

He also urged the herders to support him in the task of bringing lasting peace to the country.

The President called on state governors to work with the Minister of Agriculture, who he said, had been mandated to work out a solution with the states by which herders will have access to water for their livestock, and farmers will have security against destruction of their farmlands.

President Buhari attributed part of the conflict between the two groups to the climate change phenomenon and population explosion, but regretted that its politicization by selfish individuals who did not mean well for the country did not also help matters.

He emphasized that this conflict was neither religious nor ethnic, but one that his administration has foreseen and warned about.

According to the President, “Before the Benue and Taraba crises, I called the Minister of Agriculture and the Governor of Central Bank and asked them to work with the state governors on rediscovering the gazetted cattle routes, clear of farmlands that had made for peace during the First Republic.”

President Buhari expressed strong confidence that a way around the problem will be found, working with the states which have an important role to play in finding a lasting solution.

“Whatever it will take, I am determined to bring peace between farmers and herders. I urge you all to be patient and exercise restraint while we are working for an enduring solution,” he stressed.

MACBAN, led by Alhaji Mohammed Kiruwa, informed the President that the 20-million strong body had sent the delegation to endorse his bid for a second term of office on account of the administration’s achievements in office which included, the successful clampdown on kidnapping and cattle rustling; and the fight against terrorism and corrupt elements in the society.

Alhaji Kiruwa said President Buhari’s personal qualities of honesty, integrity and his unparalleled commitment to the unity and progress of the nation, also informed his association’s support for a renewal of his tenure.

https://politicsngr.com/2019-buhari-meets-miyetti-allah-aso-rock-photos-details/

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Presidential Candidate of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar has spoken on the support he enjoys from the United States Government ahead of the 2019 General Elections.

Below is a full transcript of his Interview with VOA, made available to PoliticsNGR;

HE AA’s Interview with Aliyu Mustapha Sokoto of VOA Hausa on Thursday night in Washington D.C and monitored in Abuja

Aliyu Mustapha: What has been in the news for many years has come to past right now I’m together with the former Vice President of Nigeria and the Presidential flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after he had just returned from some interactive session with some high ranking Congress Men and Women. Your excellency, now that you have visited Washington D.C, does it have to do with those who said you cannot come to the United State of America or the visit is for what purpose?

AA: Aliyu I told you before that my coming to the United State is in the hands of Americans if they decided to issue a Visa to me I will definitely come and if they refused to give me I cannot come. And now they have issued it to me and I am here. I’m having some positive discussions with some of the officials.  I was in the Congress and I had discussions with some high ranking Congress men and Women about Nigeria and how Nigeria intends to improve her relationship with the United States of America.

Aliyu Mustapha: After visiting the Congress, do you intend to meet with some other people?

AA: Yes, by tomorrow (Friday)  I will go to the State Department in order to have vital discussions with some of their officials.

Aliyu Mustapha: Will you also meet with the members of the United State Chamber of Commerce?

AA: Yes, I will meet them tomorrow (Friday) by the Grace of God.

Aliyu Mustapha: Who invited you to the United State?

AA: I was invited by many organizations in United States.

Aliyu Mustapha: Before some people are saying that you cannot come to the United States of America but now you are here people will stop doubting.

AA: The whole thing is about misinformation

Aliyu Mustapha: What do you mean by misinformation?

AA: Because for a very long time they have been lying to them (Nigerians) and they agreed; I tried to explain to them but they refused to listen. And I hope now people are going to understand.

Aliyu Mustapha: Your coming to America has shown that you are going to have some interactions with some top officials of the United State are they in support of your candidacy?

AA: Yes.

Aliyu Mustapha: Are you convinced that the United States Government are in support of your candidacy?

AA: There is no doubt because the United State is ready to support any country that is practicing democracy.

Aliyu Mustapha: People know you as a businessman; do you think that your business background and experience will influence the United States Government to support you?

AA: One good thing is that Nigeria is a country that is practicing democracy and everyone knows that we have played a significant role and have done a lot to sustain democratic governance in Nigeria and it is very important.

Aliyu Mustapha: Thank you very much.

AA: It is my Pleasure.

https://politicsngr.com/just-atiku-speaks-us-support-2019-presidential-bid/

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The Defence Headquarters has announced the date for the burial of former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh (rtd).

PoliticsNGR gathered that the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General John Agim, made the announcement in a statement on Friday.

Activities lined-up for the interment of the former defence chief will begin on Sunday with the Service of Songs scheduled to hold at the Nigerian Air Force Base Protestant Church in Abuja.

This would be followed by a church service expected to hold at the same venue on Wednesday next week.

Badeh would be laid to rest later in the afternoon at the National Military Cemetery in the nation’s capital.

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-army-announces-date-alex-badehs-burial/

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PoliticsNGR has been furnished with a statement from the the United States Chapter of the All progressives Congress, APC on the recent trip of PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar to America.

Below is the statement signed by the National Chairman of APC US chapter, Prof. Adeshegun Labinjo;

"Today, APC-USA Chapter has learnt that the former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku is here in America. APC-USA does not object to Atiku or any Nigerian gaining entry into USA, once he or she meets the entry visa requirements to this great country.

However, the questionable character of the individual does not evaporate because he has stepped on the soil of America. A thief remains a thief no matter where he or she visits. Obviously Alhaji Abubakar Atiku has every reason to have kept off the USA given the cloak of corruption he is wearing. After a long spell of noticeable absence and factual concerns about Alhaji Abubakar Atiku’s antecedents in the USA, arising from his dealings with former Congressman William Jefferson of Louisiana, who was convicted and served a jail term, on account of bribery resulting from a telecommunication transaction in Nigeria, Atiku is now here again in the US. Congressional records point to the fact that Atiku engaged in money laundering through his wife who was then resident in the USA.

We see Atiku, who is the 2019 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of Nigeria, as a self-centered corrupt Vice President under President Obasanjo’s regime. Certainly Alhaji Abubakar Atiku’s entry and presence in the USA is a mockery of President Bush Presidential Proclamation 7750 which affirms the denial of US visa to foreign officials involved with corruption and other supporting legislations by the congress. APC-USA believes that Alhaji Abubakar Atiku should be held accountable for his involvement in money laundering."

https://politicsngr.com/just-apc-reacts-atikus-trip-us-reveal-next-line-action/

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The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has said that if elected president, he would appoint a minister of youth who will not be more than 30 years old.

PoliticsNGR learned that the PDP presidential flag-bearer made the pledge at a Town Hall meeting with youths in Lagos on Monday.

According to him, it is incumbent on the present crop of leaders in Nigeria to mentor the younger generation and the best way to achieve that objective is to appoint youth who are brilliant into top government positions and allow them to learn the ropes.

“I have pledged that 40 percent of my government will be youth. Let me assure you that it’s a promise and I won’t break it. My minister of youth is going to be less than 30 years.”

The former Vice President further remarked during the question and answer session at the event that if elected as president he would give top priority to education investment, saying that “President Buhari has confessed that the economy is in bad shape under his watch and it is clear that the President is short of ideas about how to fix the broken economy. There is no single economist in his administration and that is why we are in this mess.
“I know how to fix a broken economy. I know how to create jobs and I also know how to empower the youth. That’s the reason I’m here today - to give hope to you the youth that together we can get Nigeria working again.”

Also speaking at the event, the national chairman of the PDP, Prince Uche Secondus, extols the Nigeria youth for their resilience despite all chastisement and uncooperative attitude from the incumbent government.

“All you have to do is to vote for Atiku as president but be very assured that under the Atiku administration, every Nigerian will be accommodated and included.”

The Town Hall meeting attracted a large number of young people from all walks of live across the country, and it is in continuation of interactive session that Atiku has been having with different stakeholders since the commencement of political campaigns for the 2019 election.

https://politicsngr.com/ill-appoint-minister-youth-not-older-30-atiku/

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Governor of Kano state, Umar Ganduje has reignited attacks on his former friend and political ally, Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso.

PoliticsNGR learned that while speaking at a flag off event for All Progressives Congress (APC) campaigns for Kano Central at Kano Pillars Stadium in Sabon Gari, Kano, Ganduje described Kwankwaso as 'Politically Crippled'.

He accused Kwankwaso of political insensitivity, vowing to join forces with the people of Kano Central to replace him with Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau.

He said: “Kwankwaso’s three and half years at the Senate have brought no political dividends to the people of Kano Central because the Senator has turned deaf ears to the cries of his people and made no positive contributions to activities of the senate. He is now deaf, dumb and blind and we promise you to replace him with a better candidate in 2019.”

He pointed that there was a need for the people of Kano state to replace him with Ibrahim Shekarau whom he described as a man of the people, whose political achievements over the years exceed those of Kwankwaso.

Similarly, Idris Danbazzau, a former Commissioner for Special Duties during Kwankwaso’s regime, renounced his membership of the Kwankwasiya movement alongside six others, at the political rally.

Danbazau blamed Kwankwaso’s selfish interest and autocratic nature for his decision to join APC, even as he accused the Senator of destroying virtually everything they worked for to build the Kwankwasiya faction of the APC.

https://politicsngr.com/2019-kwankwaso-politically-crippled-ganduje/

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Presidential Candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar has signed the Peace pact for the 2019 Elections. He signed it in the presence of General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the chairman of the Peace Committee.

Atiku was accompanied by PDP stalwarts and National Chairman, Uche Secondus.

https://politicsngr.com/just-atiku-signs-peace-pact/

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A social Democratic Party (SDP) Senatorial Candidate, Barrister Natasha Akpoti on Wednesday urged the Inspector General of Police to invite the administrators of Okehi and Adavi Local Government Areas, Hon Abdulraheem Ozovehe Ohiare and Hon Joseph Omuya Salawu for questioning over assassination plot, destruction of campaign posters and billboards.

She accused the duo of instigating series of criminal activities leading to violence, civil unrest, vandalism and threat to life in Kogi State.

PoliticsNGR gathered that in a petition to the inspector General of Police, Akpoti urged the police chief to arrest and prosecute some political thugs identified to be members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kogi State chapter.

 Akpoti said Ismaila Kashim, Ajinodu Ojo, Adams Kabiru, Ozovehe Lawal,  Hamidu Jamiu, Adullahi Suleiman, Ahmed Fatai, Ojo Ebo, Ibrahim Kuroko, Wahab Ozuwaya, Mumuni, Baba, Itopa, Aloma, Aje, Daddy Ozi Eti, Momoh  Jimoh Yakubu, Gwancy Adino Jimoh, Shuaibu Muhammed and Otori Jimoh were responsible for the destruction of her election materials and beating of her supporters in Kogi State.

Entitled “The destruction of Our Candidate’s campaign posters, banners, billboards, intimidation of our members and destruction of our gatherings, Akpoti gave details of how APC candidate and supporters destroyed her billboards and posters.

She accused the APC senatorial candidate, Alhaji Yakubu Oseni , Ojo Egbo, Wahab Ozuwaya, Onujabo Idanuha, Abdulmumuni  Jegenyi, Adavize Jagaban, Dollar Igayi and Ajinodu Ojo of removing and destroying her campaign materials and chasing her supporters away from the venue of their meetings.

“On Sunday, December 9, 2018, some hoodlums closely associated with the Adavi Local Government Administrator, Hon Joseph Salami stormed the venue of our ward meeting at Alhaji Badams Compound, Inorere in Adavi Local Government Area with arms and ammunitions. They chased our members with their weapons, stoned some of the women, set ablaze the plastic chairs they were seated on and destroyed some properties belonging to our coordinator and host, Mr Badams Abdulrahaman. This happened in the presence of four policemen after we have written officially to the Divisional Police Officer to notify him of the meeting in our letter dated December 7, 2018 which was acknowledged and the same notification was conveyed to the Area Commander in charge of Adavi Local Government” she said.

Akpoti also accused Abdulraheem Ozovehe, Kamuche, Liedown, Ocha, Dollar, Sule Director, Fatai Commander, Okenykenyi, OZ, Ogunje, Ahi, Mado, Tutunkunu, Okubaibai, Janku, Adams Ozi Ganyi, Topgel, Adoke and Arisa of plotting to assassinate her.

 “On the 22nd of September 2018, our candidate, Natasha Akpoti averted attack as APC thugs invaded Ihima Youth Summit organized by the youths of Ihima Community when hoodlums allegedly under the sponsorship of Kogi State Government aided by the Okehi Local Government Administrator invaded the Ihima Youth Summit. They destroyed some of the items prepared for the events while the organizers were putting plans together to set the venue before the arrival of their guests among which was the Ajaokuta Steel Company Advocate, Barrister Natasha Akpoti.”

The Kogi Central  SDP senatorial flag bearer recounted that “on October 22 in Okehi, a reported case was instituted by our party to the DPO and the Zonal Area Commander in charge of Kogi Central Senatorial District where our supporters {Enimire Ojo, Bello Mohammed Sadig and his wife Hajarat Adams) were beaten, maimed while Abdulazeez Abdulkareem, Abubakar Salami and Adamu Yusuf were arrested by Okehi Division Police Officers allegedly on the order of Okehi Local Government Administrator, Hon Abdulraheem Ozovehe Ohiare.

“ On subsequent days after the incident, we had some of our supporters which include Haruna Bashiru, Onimisi Ahaad, Habib Adinoyi Umar, Haruna Babana being threatened by thugs especially one Abdullahi Suleiman who is associated to the Okehi Local Government Administrator.”

Akpoti averred further that Adams Kabiru, Ismaila Kashim, Hamidu Jamiu and Ozovehe Lawal on the 30th of October invaded the residence of the Okehi LG SDP Chairman, Hon James Segun Onimisi.

“They issued threats of unleashing mayhem on him and his family. They also destroyed Akpoti’s banner while shouting songs of war against anybody who identifies with Akpoti. On the 20th of October, some police officers in company of Ismaila Kashim and APC Obeiba ward 1 chairman, Abdulwahab Koto allegedly under the instruction of the Okehi LG Secretary, Hon Ibrahim Sheidu came to remove the banner of the SDP candidate on the claim that the banner was mounted too close to the venue of the APC Obeiba Ward 1 meeting.”

“One Ajinodu Ojo led his gang to destroy Akpoti’s banner mounted opposite Ihima Community Secondary School Street, Obeiba Ihima, Okehi LGA. On December 2, some alleged APC armed thugs attacked the women wing of the Akpoti Campaign Organization during their weekly ward meeting at Enyi Dudu Primary School, Ebogodo”

She advised that the ruling party in the state should write undertaking on peaceful campaign and elections.

“That henceforth, the APC agents and other political parties should be refrained from tampering with SDP/Natasha campaign materials and rallies or any other constitutional gatherings of our members and supporters.

The senatorial hopeful urged security agents to hold Kogi State Government and Alhaji Yakubu Oseni responsible for whatever happens to her and SDP faithful in the state.”

She also urged the Inspector General to investigate the actions of these APC chieftains and bring them to book.

https://politicsngr.com/just-sdp-senatorial-candidate-natasha-akpoti-escapes-assassination/

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Officers of the Nigerian police force attacked and arrested some Jewish protesters in Umuahia recently. The Protesters who were marching in support for a sovereign state of Biafra and demanding a referendum, were fired with Teargas and 51 of them were arrested.

PoliticsNGR has footage from the incident.

Watch the Shocking Video HERE

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-police-officers-attack-jewish-protesters-umuahia-watch/

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Prominent Igbo leader, Chief Dozie Ikedife is Dead.He passed on Tuesday evening at the Age of 88, PoliticsNGR gathered.

According to his son, Dozie jr, Ikedife “will be buried today (Wednesday) Dec. 12, 2018, at 5pm in his compound,” adding that his funeral would be announced later by his family.

Dr Ikedife, held the traditional title of Ikuku Ebu Nkpu which was awarded to him by 14 communities in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, Ekwusigo local government areas of Anambra State.

He was also a holder of an honorary chieftaincy title of Ikenga Nnewi and Odezuligbo Umueje. Ikedife was an obstetrician, gynaecologist and researcher of repute.

He held a Bachelor of Science of University London, 1958, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, (MBBS), University Glasgow, Scotland, 1959 and a diploma in obstetrical, Royal College Ob-Gyn.

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-dozie-ikedife-dead/

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Ibrahim Magu, acting Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has called on Nigerians to ensure that they get rid of vote-buying and remain circumspect as the 2019 elections approach.

"We need to enjoy the dividends of democracy through credible elections and I hereby urge all Nigerians not to succumb to any political pressure, but to say ‘no’ to vote-buying,” Magu said.

PoliticsNGR gathered that he gave the charge at the Anti-Corruption Walk/Marathon, which held on December 10, 2018 at the Eagle Square, Abuja, organized by the EFCC, as part of activities marking the 2018 United Nation’s Anti-Corruption Day celebration, themed, “Say No To Corruption”.

Speaking at the event, which also had as participants, youths from all over Africa who had converged on Abuja to hold the inaugural African Youth Congress Against Corruption the Africa, 2018 AYCAC Summit, Magu stressed the importance of youth participation in the fight against corruption.

Holding posters that had on them inscriptions like “Youth Earnestly Say No to Corruption” and “Do Not Shield Corrupt Persons, Expose Them”, Magu said that the war against corruption was not one that should be left to the EFCC alone, but one which was be waged collectively by all Nigerians.

The marathon event, which was the first of its kind being used to convey the anti-corruption message to Nigerians, was organized by the EFCC in partnership with the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Crimes, ICPC, Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN and Fair Play International.

Participants at the anti-corruption marathon received various prizes, including cash prize of N1million for Deborah Pam, a staff of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, who came first in the female category, winning in a record time of 1hr 17 min and 58 seconds. Cash prizes of N500,000 and N200,000 went to Elizabeth Nuhu and Olude Fadekemi, who came second and third respectively.



In the men’s category, Shehu Muazu came tops in a record time of 1hr 4 mins with Goyet Gideon following in second place and Emmanuel Gyang coming in third place.

Among dignitaries that joined in the marathon, were Hon. Kayode Oladele; Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first female Olympian gold medallist; sportsmen and women including Mary Onyali, Garba Lawal, Henry Amike, Samson Saisai, who represented the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development; Ayo Ojuroye, Chief Executive Officer, Bet9ja, and members of the Nigerian Youth Service Corps members.

The anti-corruption walk was staged across the various offices of the EFCC across the country. Magu who was represented by Usman Imam, Zonal Head of the South-East zone of the EFCC, said, “Your ‘No’ must not only be heard, but must be seen and felt through a conscious determination to resist attempts by individuals,organisations and systems to do that which negates integrity,transparency,honesty and equality.”

In the same vein, Abdulkarim Chukkol, Head, Uyo Zonal Office, urged participants to “take the fight against corruption seriously and use the media to create more awareness on the ills of corruption, while using the same tool to expose corrupt practices so they can be dealt with and corrected”.

At the Ibadan Zonal Office, Abdulrasheed Bawa, who on behalf of the acting EFCC Chairman welcomed participants including members of the Civil Society Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations, Trade Unions, Collaborating Agencies, Youth Corp members and the Press, said, “Our ‘No’ must count more than ever before.”

“We are on the verge of another electioneering process when we need to interrogate the profile and antecedent of the people we elect to represent us in the various public offices,” he added.

Garba Dugum, Kano Zonal Head, led the walk as part of activities to commemorate the Anti-Corruption Day. His counterpart in Maiduguri, Adamu Dan-Musa, in commemoration of the Anti-Corruption Day called on all staff of the zonal office and stakeholders to be “committed to the fight against corruption”.

The anti-corruption walk at the Benin Zonal Office of the EFCC, which began at Ring Road, through Airport Road ending at the Commission’s zonal office, witnessed a colourful display of messages to drive home the anti-corruption message.

Speaking to journalists, Zonal Head, Mailafia Yakubu, urged the public to “take ownership of the fight against corruption in Nigeria as corruption was at the intersection of our development”

In his remark at the Lagos anti-corruption walk, Magu, who was represented by Muhammed Abba, Director of Operations, EFCC Lagos Zonal Office, observed that the country was “not immune to the devastating effects of corruption”, and so urged participants to “hearken to the call to hop on the fast moving train of the war against corruption, because no one must be left behind. It is a collective responsibility to take Nigeria out of the woods”.

Prior to the anti-corruption walk, the EFCC had on December 9, 2018 in Abuja, organized a novelty match at the Mediterranean Recreation Centre. The match was played between the EFCC FC and a team that was made up of Magu, legendary football stars including John Fashanu, Tijjani Babangida, Garba Lawal, and management staff of the Commission.

The game ended 3-0 with the acting Chairman scoring a goal for the management staff/legendary stars against Officers of EFCC, another game saw the EFCC FC defeating FC International 6-2.

MC Tagwaye also known as Mr President gave his unwavering support to the war against corruption saying "we are here to support what EFCC is doing, Nigerians are in support of EFCC adding that EFCC is regaining the glory of Nigeria". The R&B group Styl-Plus thrilled spectators to their old classics such as Olufunmi, Four years, Imagine that, Call my name at the event
President Muhammadu Buhari had also charged African youths to own the fight against corruption at the opening ceremony of the two-day African Youth Congress against Corruption, at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja, December 9, 2018.

“The young people of Africa, this fight against corruption are yours to lead and to win. You must effectively ensure that our natural and mineral resources remain on the continent for job and welfare issue as well as affordable healthcare and quality education for our people,” he said.

Buhari who is also the African Union Anti-Corruption Champion, expressed optimism that African youths will rise to the great task of ridding the continent of corrupt practices.

Declared the "Year of Combating Corruption - a Sustainable Path to Africa's Transformation", the 2018 Congress, which had in attendance young anti-corruption crusaders and participants from the five African regions, provided the youths the opportunity to deliberate on how to advance the corruption fight in their various countries.

President Buhari stressed that: “African youths must remain the front and centre of restoring traditional African values of probity, integrity, diligence and hard work.”

In his opening remarks, Magu, who spoke on behalf of anti-corruption agencies, said that the demonstration of the political will to fight corruption by the President, should serve as an impetus for all and sundry to join the collective action.

Magu said: “His action has ensured the independence of the anti-corruption agencies to operate without intervention or restrictions. For these and more, we are grateful to Mr. President.

"It has therefore, become imperative for all of us to come together and fight corruption to rescue our nation and the continent so we may secure the future of our teeming youth.”

While assuring the African youths that the EFCC will not betray the anti-corruption mandate given to it by the people, Magu said, “We will remain firm and resolute as we confront corruption boldly and courageously until all corrupt elements and their destructive practices are defeated. We must uphold Accountability above everything else in every aspect of our lives and particularly, when we are called to serve”.

https://politicsngr.com/2019-will-vote-buyers-efcc-chairman-ibrahim-magu/

Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media and Publicity), has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a "flowing stream of fake news".

He stated this in response to the reports that the account of the PDP vice-presidential candidate was frozen, and that the house of the son of Atiku Abubakar, PDP presidential candidate was raided by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Statement read: "The story about the raid 'ordered by Buhari-led government' on the home of PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar’s son and the fairy tale on the alleged blockage of the bank accounts of the running mate, [former] Governor Peter Obi and his family are both untrue, and should be dismissed as just another manifestation of the PDP’s growing expertise in fake news.

"Nigerians must be becoming wary by now, of a political party with absolutely nothing to offer in the coming elections and has instead, transformed into a knight in shining armor, slaying the truth. In this so-called transformation, PDP has changed into nothing but to a ceaselessly flowing stream of fake news.

"It is impossible to find in Nigeria today, anyone propagating fake news more than the PDP. Our advice to Nigerians is: Ignore them."

https://politicsngr.com/raid-atikus-sons-home-fake-news-pdp-presidency/

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Nigeria's Information minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has finally addressed rumours that President Muhammadu Buhari has been replaced by a 'clone' called 'Jubril Aminu Alsudani'.

Speaking to the media in Abuja on Monday, Mohammed described the reports as 'False'.

It can be recalled that the claims of President Buhari being a 'clone' originated from Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of proscribed group, Indigenous People of Biafra(IPOB).

The minister said;

"One of the fake news being propagated by the opposition, which is now very confused, is that Buhari cannot speak Fulfulde, his mother tongue and cannot open the main door to his conference room in the Presidential Villa having undergone cloning, despite having openly been made clear that there was nothing like that.

This is clearly the fake news and handiwork of the opposition in serious distress and confusion.

“It is not true that Buhari has not been able to access his main office as a result of being cloned. Anybody who says so is a purveyor of fake news and should be ignored. Let this campaign be issue-based and not on sentiments, silly and idiotic fake news. “But I want to put the media on the alert that as we approach the election, they should be more cautious as the opposition is determined to dish out more and more fake news in order to confuse them and create tension and dissonance in the system all in their desperate bid the win the election. They know they have nothing to offer the Nigerian people,”.

https://politicsngr.com/lai-mohammed-replies-nnamdi-kanu/

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Below is a press statement from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP made available to PoliticsNGR, signed by its national Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan;

"The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Organization (PPCO) decries the stoppage of transactions on all accounts belonging to PDP Vice presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, wife, his family members and their businesses by agencies of the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Since his nomination, Peter Obi, apart from facing series of failed attempts by the APC to destroy his reputation, has also continued to receive all manners of threats and blackmail, including threats to his life and those of his wife and children.
Having realized that the majority of Nigerians are rallying behind the duo of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi as the our Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates respectively, the Buhari Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have resorted to all manners of machinations, including smear campaigns and direct attacks on their persons and business concerns, in a bid to run them down.

The Buhari Presidency is intimidated by Peter Obi’s resume, particularly, his general acceptance as epitome of fiscal responsibility, frugality and transparency in governance.

Otherwise, why is the Presidency on a wild goose chase in investigating Peter Obi, who left office as Governor of Anambra state five years ago with a nationally acclaimed clean record, intact reputation for frugality, transparency, zero tolerance for corruption and leaving behind a huge saving of N75 billion naira in cash and investments; without owing any salaries, pensions, gratuities or even contractors for contracts executed.

The fact remains that the Buhari Presidency and the APC are merely shadow boxing in their attacks on Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, as their records before Nigerians speak for them.

All discerning Nigerians know that the reasons for an investigation on a man like Peter Obi, is a journey to no where aimed to stifle him of funds as well as attempt to distract our campaign and divert attention from the failures of the Buhari administration.
It is ludicrous that President Buhari would continue to condone the looting of our treasuries by his party leaders and the cabal in his Presidency, which even, the First Lady had even alluded to, only to be using government agencies to attempt to blackmail our Presidential and vice Presidential candidates whose reputations stand clear before all Nigerians.

The PPCO reminds President Buhari that neither he nor Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was in 2015, as candidates, harassed, attacked at the airport or subjected to blackmails, and wonder why they are now employing such tactics just because Nigerians have resolved to do away with them, come 2019."

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-pdp-vp-candidate-peter-obis-bank-accounts-frozen/

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Catholic priest and spiritual director of Adoration Ministries, Father Ejike Camillus Mbaka has apologized to the former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi for 'embarassing' him recently at the church's bazaar ceremony over his inability to donate money to the church.

Mbaka was severely criticised online for his behaviour, for which he has now publicly apologised.

PoliticsNGR has been furnished with the Video.

Watch the Public apology Video HERE

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-mbaka-publicly-apologizes-peter-obi-watch/

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PoliticsNGR has obtained copies of President Muhammadu Buhari's letter to the National Assembly rejecting the controversial Electoral Amendment Bill.

Photos below;

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-president-buhari-rejected-electoral-bill-full-letter/

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The Federal Executive Council has approved the 2019 Budget for Presentation to the National Assembly, PoliticsNGR has learned.

This development is coming after President Muhammadu Buhari presided over a special FEC session on the budget earlier today in Abuja.

Minister for Budget and National planning, Udoma Udoma made this known to journalists at the State house after the meeting.

According to him, the next phase is to work with the National Assembly to pick a date for the presentation of the estimates.

An N8.6trillion budget is being proposed for next year.

https://politicsngr.com/just-federal-executive-council-approves-2019-budget/

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PoliticsNGR has just gathered that the Speaker of the Imo state House of Assembly, Acho Ihim alongside 17 lawmakers have dumped the rulingAll Progressives Congress, APC for the Action Alliance Party.

Uche Nwosu, son-in-law to Rochas Okorocha, Governor of Imo State, who had been tipped by Okorocha to secure the APC governorship ticket, had also dumped the APC after issues that led to his losing the ticket.

On Tuesday, he had also announced his intention to run for Governor of Imo State on the platform of the Action Alliance, stating that “injustice, impunity, and lack of respect for party’s constitution” forced him out of APC.

https://politicsngr.com/breaking-imo-house-assembly-speaker-17-lawmakers-dump-apc/

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Segun Sowunmi, Spokesman for the Atiku Campaign Organization has claimed in a recent interview that President Muhammadu can not speak Fulani.

During a recent interview, Sowunmi claims that PDP presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar is more Fulani than Buhari. He claims that the president can't speak 'Fulfulde' which is the name of the Fulani language.

PoliticsNGR has the Footage.

Watch the Video HERE

https://politicsngr.com/just-president-buhari-can-not-speak-fulani-sowunmi-watch/