The political impasse in Rivers State continues unabated, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) boycotting a stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the conduct of local government elections in the state’s 23 councils.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has announced October 5, 2024, as the date for the election.
RSIEC Chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd), made the announcement on Monday at the Commission’s headquarters, amidst the absence of the two major political parties.
Chief Tony Okocha, the APC’s caretaker committee chairman, alleged that he received no official invitation.
“I was not invited. My party was not invited. My party is too big not to be officially invited for an event like that. I am too big to attend an event I was not officially invited. RSIEC refused to officially invite me as a chairman of a major opposition party in the state.
“I saw the information of the stakeholders meeting on social media. I was in the church on Sunday, and I sent a mail to the chairman of RSIEC, and he replied that APC was a major stakeholder. My party can only take part in the election if things are done right,” Okocha said.
Meanwhile, Hon Solsuema Osaro, the Rivers state chairman of the interparty advisory council (IPAC), confirmed that 17 out of 19 political parties in the state will participate in the elections.
“17 parties were in the stakeholder meeting. I want to thank the Governor, His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his determination to allow for the conduct of the elections. APC and the PDP were not in the meeting. We don’t know why they were not there. But I can assure you that the 17 parties at the meeting will gladly participate in the election,” he said
The Commission’s chairman, Justice Enebeli, speaking at the Parley said, “We are practicing the tenets of democracy. The tenets of democracy thrive on certain principles, which is what we are seeing here.
“The citizens have the right for political participation. The majority may rule, but that rule is counterbalanced by the rights of the minority.”
The stakeholders’ meeting was attended by security agencies, civil society organizations, the media, and other stakeholders.
There has a political crisis in the state, which began on June 17, 2024, when the tenure of former council chairmen loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike ended. The former chairmen resisted vacating their offices, citing an amended Local Government law, which they claimed extended their tenure by six months.
The governor, Siminalayi Fubara, eventually appointed caretaker chairmen committees for the council. He also mandated that protocols for the conduct of local government elections be made, immediately.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force subsequently have taken over the council secretariats, pending a federal high court judgment.
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmoud Yakubu, says the flood disaster that hit some state recently affected over 4000 Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) machines at the commission’s office.
Yakubu disclosed this at the opening of a two-day induction retreat for Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on Monday in Lagos.
The INEC chairman, however, said the commission had been able to recover no fewer than 3,500 of the machines.
The INEC Chairman said the machines in the state would not be enough for the election and that the commission would call for additional support from neighbouring states.
On the retreat, the INEC chairman said it was not just about induction of new appointees but an opportunity to review performance, reappraise processes, discuss innovations, and engage service providers.
He noted that it was also an opportunity to interface with lawmakers on critical areas of reform and explore new frontiers “in our continuous effort to improve organisational capacity for better service delivery.”
He continued: “In March 2022, we had an induction retreat for new National Commissioners, followed by another one on election logistics in October, and then another retreat for new RECs in November.
“The most recent retreat was held in August last year for the review of the 2023 general elections.
Today, we are holding another retreat to induct 10 new RECs: nine of them were sworn in on December 12, 2023, and one of them on January 30, 2024.”
The INEC boss said that in a matter of weeks after the swearing-in, many of the new RECs were saddled with the task of conducting re-run elections in a few locations in some constituencies or bye-elections in entire constituencies.
According to him, INEC will conduct four major elections before 2027, listing them as the Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun governorship elections.
“Therefore, as we think, reflect, and innovate for credible elections, we are also instantly implementing the reforms and innovations that we can introduce through administrative action.
“Since elections is a process governed by law, we also plan to intensify our engagement with the National Assembly for activities that require legal reform,” he said.
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has vowed to appeal the dismissal of his fundamental rights suit against the Federal Government by the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday.
POLITICS NIGERIA reports that Justice James Omotosho struck out the suit for lacking merit, ruling that Kanu failed to provide evidence to support his claims of violation of his fundamental rights by the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Department of State Services (DSS), and its Director General.
However, Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimako, said that they would appeal the judgment.
“We will appeal,” he said.
In the dismissed suit, Kanu alleged that the DSS and its Director General breached his right to a fair hearing by preventing his lawyers from having unhindered interactions with him to prepare for his treason trial. He claimed that DSS officials eavesdropped on his conversations with his lawyers and did not allow them to take notes during pre-trial meetings.
Kanu sought a declaration that the respondents’ actions amounted to a denial of his right to be defended by legal practitioners of his choice. However, Justice Omotosho found his claims unmeritorious due to lack of credible evidence.
Kanu has been on trial since 2015, initially arrested over his secessionist push. He fled the country in 2017 but was rearrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria in 2021, and has been in DSS detention since then
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peaceful co-existence of all party members in every cradle and cranny of the state.
“It is on record that he has, at various times, been able to successfully reconcile warring party members across board to ensure cohesion.
“The incident today was about a meeting convened to reconcile the different factions of the party in Alimosho local government area which was unfortunately infiltrated by uninvited thugs with ulterior motives.
“We appreciate the security agencies for promptly bringing the situation under control.
“The victory of the progressives in Lagos State since the inception of this dispensation has been due to life-changing policies by our responsive and responsible government and strict compliance with party discipline.
“Lagos State APC has a time-tested mechanism for settling disputes and will not hesitate to wield the big stick if need be. The sacrifices of the founding fathers of the party to engender democracy cannot be sacrificed on the altar of indiscipline and intolerance.
“We acknowledge protests as an integral part of democracy, but it has to be within acceptable norms without infringing on the rights of others.”
The peaceful protest in Rivers State has taken a dangerous turn as a group of men believed to be operatives of Asari Dokubo’s private military company, commonly known as Amama Soldiers, attempted to attack the demonstrators.
However, their efforts were thwarted by the quick intervention of the police.
POLITICS NIGERIA earlier reported that the crisis in Rivers State has continued to Monday (today) as former council chairmen of 21 out of 23 local governments have taken to the streets, rejecting the takeover of their offices.
The protests, which began early in the morning, have seen the former chairmen and their supporters waving placards with inscriptions such as “Police, continue occupying the councils” and “Sim Fubara can’t continue to act as he likes.”
The crisis in Rivers State deepened last week when the Police Command prevented some chairmen from accessing their secretariats, following a directive to take control of all 23 local government council secretariats.
There is heavy security presence around Nasarawa Palace, the official residence of the deposed 15th emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.
Politics Nigeria earlier reported that the Kano State Government had ordered the eviction of the deposed traditional ruler.
Addressing journalists on Thursday evening, the attorney-general and commissioner of justice in Kano State, Haruna Isah Dederi, said Bayero should be evicted because all is set for the reconstruction and renovation of the property.
In a video seen by our reporter on Friday morning, security personnel have blocked all entrances to the palace which is owned by the Kano State Government.
The move, Politics Nigeria understands, is to prevent thugs from interfering with the planned demolition of the Nasarawa Palace.
In a separate video seen by our correspondent, a bulldozer and excavator were seen headed to the palace.
Recall that the Federal High Court in Kano had nullified the removal of Emir Bayero and others by the State Government.
However, the Kano State Government has insisted that Emir Sanusi Muhammad II remains the emir of Kano.
An Indigene of Ebonyi State, Mr Fidelis Igube is currently in depression after Enugu State Government under Governor Peter Mbah demolished his only source of income.
Speaking with our correspondent, Mr Igube said he has been in depression since last month when his shop which he locked and went back home only to come in the morning to see that it has been demolished.
He begged the Ebonyi State government and other good spirited Nigerians to come to his rescue as he has no means to survive the Economic hardship in the country.
According to him, "I have been depressed because my condition wasn't like this."
"I was doing very well in Enugu State where I was into Phone Accessories but one Morning when I came to my shop, I discovered that my shop has been demolished by the Enugu State Government because according to them, they want to build Bus Terminal".
"I didn't remove even pin from my shop before it was demolished. I am begging our dear Governor, Rt. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru and other good spirited Nigerians to come to my rescue because I'm dying of hunger," he told our correspondent.
President Bola Tinubu addressed Nigerians this morning on the occasion of Democracy Day, which is also the 25th anniversary of unbroken democracy in Nigeria.
The presidency has released the full text of the president’s speech. Please read below:
TEXT OF PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU’S NATIONAL BROADCAST ON THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNBROKEN DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA, DEMOCRACY DAY 12TH JUNE 2024 ABUJA
My fellow Nigerians, let me begin by congratulating all of us for witnessing the celebration of another Democracy Day today, the 12th day of June 2024. This year also marks our nation’s 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance. On this day, 31 years ago, we entered our rites of passage to becoming a true and enduring democratic society. Going through this passage was hard and dangerous.
During the fateful six years that followed, we fought and struggled for our natural rights as human beings put on this earth by the divine hand of our Creator. We lost great heroes and heroines along the way. In this struggle, the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, the most significant symbol of our democratic struggle, his wife, Kudirat, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Pa Alfred Rewane, among others sacrificed their very lives.
They bravely surrendered their futures, so that our nation might have a better one. Let us honour the memories of Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and others who have transited to the higher realm.
The sacrifices of General Alani Akinrinade, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Professor Wole Soyinka, Chief Ralph Obioha, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, among many others, should never be forgotten. For at least six years, they bore the pains and difficulties of life in exile. While the exiled pro-democracy activists kept the fire burning, their comrades at home sustained the pressure on the military brass hats.
Among the latter are Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Abdul Oroh, Senator Shehu Sani, Governor Uba Sani, Chief Olu Falae, and other National Democratic Coalition leaders such as Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Ayo Opadokun. The sacrifices they made, and the precious gift brought about by their selfless devotion can never be repaid. Neither shall it be forgotten.
We could not have won the battle against military dictatorship without the irrepressible Nigerian journalists who mounted the barricades along with the pro-democracy activists. We celebrate them today, along with their media establishments such as The Punch, Guardian, National Concord, Tribune, The News/Tempo, and TELL Magazines. Military authorities proscribed these media establishments and jailed their journalists for standing for free speech and civil liberties. Despite the lethal might of the military government, what appeared to be high and unyielding walls of dictatorship came tumbling down. The dismal fortress exists no longer.
The power of an idea, the power of the people proved more potent than all the guns and munitions, than all the guns, the munitions and the threats of the strongmen. The nation exited the yoke of military rule in 1999 to become the most populous democracy on African soil, the beacon of democratic self-determination for the black race and one of the largest democracies in the world. This change stands as a pivotal moment in human history. From this change, we shall never turn, nor shall the annals of mankind’s progress forget the sublime meaning of this great moment.
Today, 25 years later, we celebrate the silver anniversary of our journey in democracy. We have steadied the course. Democracy is neither a foreign nor abstract concept devoid of real-life meaning for us. Neither can we afford to reduce or minimalise it to being nothing but the mere holding of periodic elections where one candidate and party outdo another. While elections attract dramatic attention, they are but one aspect of democracy. Democracy is a way of life that encompasses a broad outlook of which elections are but a part. As such, a nation can have elections without being democratic. But a nation cannot be truly democratic without holding elections. That we have established a tradition of holding transparent, open, and fair elections gives credence to our democratic bearing. That we have experienced peaceful transitions of government affirms our democratic temperament.
Fellow Nigerians, true democracy shines its light into the daily lives of the people who live under its nurturing wings. It affords us the freedom and liberty to think as we want, live where we want and pursue whatever legitimate endeavour that suits us. Democracy does not assume some false or forced unity of opinion. In fact, democracy assumes that conflicting ideas and differing opinions shall be the order of the day. Given the diversity and variety of the human experience, there must be diverse perspectives and viewpoints.
What democracy demands is that we do not resolve differences through force and repression. But we make allowance for the legitimacy of views that differ from our own. Where other forms of government impose against the will of the people, democracy aims to make leaders sufficiently humble that they conduct themselves as servants of the common good, not as viceroys of the narrow interests of the mighty.
My dear compatriots, Nigeria faced a decision of untold gravity twenty-five years ago: Whether to veer toward a better destination or continue aimlessly in the fog of dictatorship. We made the right choice then. We must continue with that choice now. As Nigerians, we must remind ourselves that no matter how complicated democracy may be, it is the best form of governance in the long run. We must also be aware that there are those among us who will try to exploit current challenges to undermine, if not destroy, this democracy for which so much has already been given. These people do this not to make things better but to subject all other people and things to their control and dominance until the point that, if you are not counted among their elite, then your life will be small and no longer owned by you. This is the great battle of our day and the major reason we specially celebrate this Democracy day.
Fellow Nigerians, our Democracy is more than a historic fact. It is a living, breathing reality. The true meaning of this day is not to focus solely on the great deeds of the past that have brought us to this point. Yes, we pay eternal honour to those who laid down their lives, sacrificing everything to pave the way for the nation. I stand uniquely placed in this regard. I was among those who took the risk to midwife the birth of our democracy. I am now a direct and obvious beneficiary of the fruits of those historic efforts. As president of this nation, I am morally and constitutionally bound to preserve this precious form of governance. I vow to do my utmost best to protect your rights, freedoms, and liberties as citizens of Nigeria. Even more than that, I pledge to do whatever is necessary to cement democracy as our way of life.
Although the challenges are steep and multiple, I am grateful to lead Nigeria at this moment in her history and point in her democratic journey. I come before you also to declare that our most important work remains before us. This real test has never been whether we would rise to challenge the slings of misfortune and grievous pain of dictatorship. The real test is whether we shall lower our guards as the shadow of despotism and its evident physical danger fade. I say to you here and now that as we celebrate the enshrinement of our political democracy, let us commit ourselves to the fulfilment of its equally important counterpart, the realisation of our economic democracy. I understand the economic difficulties we face as a nation.
Our economy has been in desperate need of reform for decades. It has been unbalanced because it was built on the flawed foundation of over-reliance on revenues from the exploitation of oil. The reforms we have initiated are intended to create a stronger, better foundation for future growth. There is no doubt the reforms have occasioned hardship. Yet, they are necessary repairs required to fix the economy over the long run so that everyone has access to economic opportunity, fair pay and compensation for his endeavour and labour.
As we continue to reform the economy, I shall always listen to the people and will never turn my back on you. In this spirit, we have negotiated in good faith and with open arms with organized labour on a new national minimum wage. We shall soon send an executive bill to the National Assembly to enshrine what has been agreed upon as part of our law for the next five years or less. In the face of labour’s call for a national strike, we did not seek to oppress or crack down on the workers as a dictatorial government would have done. We chose the path of cooperation over conflict. No one was arrested or threatened. Instead, the labour leadership was invited to break bread and negotiate toward a good-faith resolution. Reasoned discussion and principled compromise are hallmarks of democracy. These themes shall continue to animate my policies and interaction with the constituent parts of our political economy. I take on this vital task without fear or favour and I commit myself to this work until we have built a Nigeria where no man is oppressed. In the end, our national greatness will not be achieved by travelling the easy road. It can only be achieved by taking the right one.
The words of the American President Franklin Roosevelt certainly ring true: ” There are many ways of going forward. But only one way of standing still”! We dare not slumber lest the good things awaiting our immediate future pass us by. We dare not plant our feet in idle standstill in the middle of the intersection of hope and despair. We know the proper way forward and we shall take it! The initial rays of a brighter tomorrow now appear on the early horizon. An abundant future and our capacity to achieve that future lie within our reach.
Democracy and the institutions it begets offer to take us to our profound destination. Let us board this progressive train together. Together, let us move Nigeria forward. Let’s continue to keep the fire of democracy burning. Let’s keep the torch lit for generations to come. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and preserve our democracy. I wish us all a Happy Democracy Day.
I Will Never Turn My Back on You – President Tinubu Tells Nigerians, Speaks on Economic Reforms | #Politicsnigeria
President Bola Tinubu has vowed never to turn his back on Nigerians.
He also urged Nigerians to bear the pains of economic reforms, saying the measures are necessary to put the nation on a sound economic footing.
He made the disclosure on Wednesday in a national broadcast marking the 25th anniversary of Nigeria’s democracy.
Tinubu said, “As we continue to reform the economy, I shall always listen to the people and will never turn my back on you.”
President Tinubu also addressed the recent negotiations with organized labour on a new national minimum wage, stating that the government has negotiated in good faith and will soon send an executive bill to the National Assembly to enshrine the agreed-upon wage for the next five years or less.
He said it is important to have both political and economic democracy, urging the nation to continue working towards a brighter future.
The president acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by the country and the need for reforms to create a stronger foundation for growth.
He added, “In the end, our national greatness will not be achieved by travelling the easy road. It can only be achieved by taking the right one.
“The words of the American President Franklin Roosevelt certainly ring true:
“ There are many ways of going forward. But only one way of standing still”!
“We dare not slumber lest the good things awaiting our immediate future pass us by. We dare not plant our feet in idle standstill in the middle of the intersection of hope and despair.
“We know the proper way forward and we shall take it!
“The initial rays of a brighter tomorrow now appear on the early horizon. An abundant future and our capacity to achieve that future lie within our reach. Democracy and the institutions it begets offer to take us to our profound destination.
“Let us board this progressive train together. Together, let us move Nigeria forward.
“Let’s continue to keep the fire of democracy burning. Let’s keep the torch lit for generations to come.”
A fresh crisis seems to be brewing within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a disagreement between the party’s leadership and its presidential candidate in 2023, Atiku Abubakar.
Atiku, a former vice president, believes that for the PDP to reclaim power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), it has to form a merger with other political parties in the country.
The Adamawa politician also believes that any PDP politician that is opposed to the idea of a coalition is working for the APC to entrench a one-party state in the country.
But the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, after its 587th meeting, said the party is not engaged in any merger, fusion, or amalgamation talks with any other political party or interest.
Spokesperson of the party, Debo Ologunagba, told journalists that the party can win elections without forming a coalition.
“Disregard any report suggesting any form of merger between the PDP and any other political party as such is not in the contemplation of our great party,” Ologunagba said.
However, speaking with the National Coalition for PDP Support Group, which paid him a solidarity visit in Abuja on Tuesday, Atiku said, “Anyone in the PDP who opposes the merger with other political groups is a fifth columnist working for the APC to turn the country into a one-party state.”
Recently, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi met with Atiku, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, and former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, all of the PDP, which fuelled speculations that the proposed coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 elections
The newly appointed Director of New Media, Edo State Chapter of the All Progressives (APC) Governorship Election Campaign Council, Mr John Mayaki, on Sunday rejected the offer, citing personal reasons for his decision.
He disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Benin and noted that he was honoured to have been considered for the position.
Mayaki explained that the potential impact of his working relationship with someone who he said was initially penciled down for the position further informed his decision.
He said that accepting the position could create an uncomfortable situation, adding that he prioritised maintaining a harmonious work environment.
Mayaki said: “I have communicated my decision to the relevant leaders before the final announcement. As a person of faith, I strive to live by principles that promote peace, integrity, and goodwill.
“I do not wish to hold grudges or engage in actions that could generate bad blood between myself and others. It is essential for me to act in a manner that aligns with my values and fosters positive relationships.”
Mayaki’s rejection comes barely 24 hours after the vice chairman of the APC in Edo State, Francis Inegbeniki, resigned his membership of the party.
Inegbeniki’s resignation was contained in a letter dated June 8, 2024, addressed to the ward chairman of Opoji, Esan Central Local Government,
Inegbeniki said that some recent developments in the party in his local government area and state conflict with his principles and values.
He noted that this has led him to do a serious evaluation of his political future in the state and decide on the way forward.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has explained why he recommended naming one of the newly commissioned roads in the FCT after renowned author and Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka.
He made this known while speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the Full Scope Development of the Arterial Road N20 from Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway.
Wike revealed that the decision to name the road Wole Soyinka Way was made to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to the country’s progress and development.
“The proposal to dedicate the road to Prof. Wole Soyinka is rooted in the importance of honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to progress and development during their lifetime, thus setting an example for others,” he said.
According to Wike, the contract for the construction of the road was awarded in 2020 at a cost of N30.6 billion, and its completion has brought relief to residents of the FCT. He praised the contractor for ensuring the timely completion of the project.
In her remarks, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, thanked President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and members of the Federal Executive Council for their support to the FCT Administration. She also appreciated the contributions of FCDA engineers, the construction team, and other stakeholders who worked together to make the Arterial Road N20 a reality.
DonMarkuzi: For the past 2 weeks I have been trying to access my funds in the bank but to no avail, all channels of transmission were blocked. Little did I know it was the end of the road.
BREAKING!!! CBN Revokes The Banking Licence of Heritage Bank Plc
By Wisdom Nwedene
The Central Bank Of Nigeria has finally revoked the banking license of Heritage Bank Plc, 9News Nigeria has confirmed.
This was made known on Monday by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Hakama Sidi Ali, in a statement obtained by 9News Nigeria.
She said: “The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, in accordance with its mandate to promote a sound financial system in Nigeria and in exercise of its powers under Section 12 of the Banks and Other Financial Act (BOFIA) 2020, hereby revokes the licence of Heritage Bank Plc with immediate effect."
The statement added, “This follows a period during which the CBN engaged with the bank and prescribed various supervisory steps intended to stem the decline.
“Regrettably, the bank has continued to suffer and has no reasonable prospects of recovery, thereby making the revocation of the license the next necessary step.
“Consequently, the CBN has taken this action to strengthen public confidence in the banking system and ensure that the soundness of our financial system is not impaired.
“The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) is hereby appointed as the Liquidator of the bank in accordance with Section 12 (2) of BOFIA, 2020.
“We wish to assure the public that the Nigerian financial system remains on a solid footing. The action we are taking today reflects our continued commitment to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety and soundness of our financial system.”
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APGA Youth Leader, Comr Onyebuchi Chukwu (Delaw) Celebrates National Chairman, Barr Ezeokenwa On His One Year In Office (Photo)
The National Youth Leader of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Comr Eze Onyebuchi Chukwu (Delaw) has congratulated National Chairman of the party, Chief Barr Ezeokenwa Sly Jr on his resounding and result-full one year in office.
In a goodwill message which was made available to journalists on Saturday, Comr Onyebuchi Chukwu said when the leadership of APGA was handed over to him as a Youth, all eyes were on him to know how he will fare in this oversized cap.
According to him, "to the glory of God he didn't fail the youths of Nigeria not talk about the youths of APGA. He has performed beyond expectations. Working with him has also made my own work very easy as the National Youth Leader."
The statement added that "On assumption, my very innovative National Chairman, introduced the DRIVE APGA agenda and that has revamped APGA in just one year. In one year, my National Chairman has made APGA the first political party in Nigeria to go digital. His Digitalisation of APGA membership is a loud achievement worthy of celebration. "
" APGA has also become the first political party in Nigeria to have an NGO, a foundation that will enable the party to give back to the society. This is another remarkable achievement of APGA National Chairman in one year that is worthy of celebration. "
"APGA now has a very big ICT centre at our regional office in Awka with good number of computers and ICT experts to impacts our youths for free. It's open to serve the public, APGA and non APGA members courtesy of my National Chairman in just one year. This is yet another landmark achievement worthy of celebration."
" My National Chairman through his constant appearance on National television stations has given APGA a media boost. The era of negative news about APGA has also disappeared to the past through the effort of the National Chairman. The National Chairman has also achieved relative peace and cooperation in APGA since he assumed office. He has moved from state to state reconciling members of APGA."
"I celebrate his resilience and steadfastness. I celebrate his humility and firmness. I celebrate his innovative and creative mind. I celebrate his foresight and futuristic mindset. He is a fire brand and result oriented. He's progressive. He has shown capacity and has led by example. His humility is something to study."
"Congratulations to the ebullient National Chairman of APGA. May your second year be better. Amen."
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, says President Bola Tinubu has succeeded in defeating Boko Haram terrorists within his first year in office.
The SGF disclosed this during a book launch in Abuja to celebrate President Tinubu’s achievements since he assumed office on May 29, 2023.
In a statement issued on Thursday by John Ameh, media aide to the permanent secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Nicholas Ella, Akume lauded Tinubu for defeating Boko Haram, adding that the criminal activities of kidnappers are also being tackled by law enforcement agents.
“There is no one that is in doubt of President Bola Tinubu’s giant strides in the last year. The federal government under President Tinubu’s leadership has defeated Boko Haram terrorists,” Akume said.
He further commended the president for infrastructural developments achieved during his first year in office.
“President Tinubu, in just one year, has built many roads across Nigeria and other critical infrastructures like the Abuja Metro Rail,” SGF Akume added.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters says that 103 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists and their families surrendered to the Nigerian military in Borno State between May 21 and May 23, 2024.
The director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba during the DHQ’s bi-weekly press briefing on Thursday, said the terrorists and their families comprising 13 adult males, 29 adult females, and 61 children surrendered to troops in Mafa, Bama, Gwoza, and Monguno Local Government Areas of Borno State.
“Between May 21 and May 23, 2024, a total of 103 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorist fighters and their families comprising of 13 adult males, 29 adult females, and 61 children surrendered to troops in Mafa, Bama, Gwoza, and Monguno LGAs of Borno State,” Buba said.
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has criticized President Bola Tinubu-led government as it marks one year in office.
According to NNPP, in its s one-year assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, it noted with dismay that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the government was not yielding the desired benefits, rather it has inflicted untold hardship on the people.
In a statement by the national publicity secretary, Oladipo Johnson, the NNPP urged the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, review its economic policies to align with the prevailing sufferings of the people and boost productivity in the country.
The party noted economic indicators and performance index of the economy were not giving Nigerians any hope.
It stressed that Nigerians are not feeling the impact of government on their daily well-being.
“The renewed hope now looks like a feeble orchestration, hope is dimming,” the statement read.
“As reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), inflation now stands at 33.69 per cent, highest in 28 years and food inflation at 40.53 per cent in April. This is not comforting in any way.”
It also highlighted the fiscal crisis being experienced till date, saying the devaluation of the naira and the resort to huge borrowing from local and foreign institutions should be carefully reviewed in tandem with the effects on the economy and the need for prudent management of resources.
NNPP called for a substantial reduction in the cost of governance and a clear eye on leakages, corruption and accountability, just as it also charged the government to prioritise its spending to reflect prevailing realities rather than wasteful expenditures.
“While education and health in particular are underfunded, we can see much wasteful application of scarce resources in less important activities which suggest misplaced priorities.”
The NNPP also expressed concerns that dozens of manufacturing companies that have now left the country.
The party noted the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) said 367 companies stopped production activities from December 2023 and that among those still in business, 335 are in distress, while N350 billion worth of goods were not sold.
It urged President Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing emirate crisis in Kano State.
“In our candid opinion, the last year has been a nightmare for Nigerians who are now poorer amidst poverty, hunger, and untold suffering.
“Government said it is renewing hope but this has to translate into tangible deliverables to hedge against the prevailing hunger and starvation among the populace.
“Regrettably, the unrelenting dire security situation in the country is worsening the concerns of the people and this should be a priority to the government as we call for a drastic review of policies and programmes of the administration.
“We cannot end this appraisal piece without advising the Tinubu administration to focus more on governance and avoid unnecessary distractions like the ongoing intervention of the Federal Government in the emirship stool in Kano, which is purely a state affair according to the 1999 Constitution as amended.
“President Tinubu should warn his appointed officials to allow him to concentrate on the things he was elected into office for instead of engaging in frivolities of politicking.
“Instead of deploying soldiers to provide cover for someone constitutionally removed from office, such soldiers should be deployed to confront terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers, and others who are making life difficult for Nigerians.
“Nigerians deserve better than what they are experiencing now.”
Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has lauded President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office.
In a statement on Wednesday by its secretary-general Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the group noted that the past few months signified a period of progress and development for the country.
“Despite the inherited challenges such as a retrogressive economy, treasury looting, and infrastructural decay, Tinubu has demonstrated the political will to overcome these obstacles more effectively than the previous eight years under former President Muhammadu Buhari,” the group said.
Isiguzoro contrasted Tinubu’s approach with the previous administration, alleging that “during the Buhari regime, the South-East, as a region faced ‘deliberate economic suppression and targeting, leading to strife and insecurity.’”
“In contrast, President Tinubu’s administration has fostered hope and progress in the South-East through initiatives like the ongoing road reconstruction and rehabilitation projects, fostering economic activity and inclusivity,” the statement added.
While addressing lingering challenges, Isiguzoro called on Tinubu to “halt property demolitions in Lagos, release Nnamdi Kanu, enhance trade policies, and reopen the Calabar Seaport to stimulate economic growth further.”
The association also advocated for the removal of underperforming ministers, stating, “Ohanaeze also advocates the removal of underperforming ministers to drive progress and efficiency.”
Ohanaeze restated its commitment to partnering with the government and urged opposition leaders to join hands with Tinubu “to rebuild the nation for prosperity and progress.”
Tinubu’s First Anniversary: Reflecting on Year One, and Welcoming the Promising Future
On this day a year ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The first year of any administration is typically for taking stock of what was inherited and laying the foundation for the most important legacies that the administration will be identified with.
Looking at what we have focused on in these last twelve months, it is effortless to see the great possibilities and outcomes awaiting our dear country.
Firstly, President Tinubu is resolutely focused on policies and actions that will attract long-term local and foreign investments to Nigeria.
This explains the focus on improving the business environment, through ease-of-doing-business initiatives, tax and fiscal policy reforms, the Central Bank’s monetary policy reforms, and many more.
Just last week the Central Bank of Nigeria disclosed that foreign currency inflows to Nigeria in the first quarter of 2024 have already surpassed the total inflows in the entire 2023.
Secondly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on policies and programs that provide direct and targeted economic relief and benefits to the pockets and livelihoods of Nigerians, through grants, student loans, food and fertilizer distribution, cash transfers, health insurance, consumer credit, and the new minimum wage that is being finalized.
Thirdly, the President understands that desirable developmental outcomes often require a temporary period of pain and adjustment. He seizes every opportunity to be seen and heard asking for the understanding of the Nigerian people. In his words, “the hallmark of leadership is making difficult decisions when they need to be made.” Importantly, these difficult decisions are necessary to make things easier for us all in the future.
Fourthly, President Tinubu is a listening leader, who does not allow ego to get in the way of doing what is best and does not shy away from implementing adjustments in the policy-making process, where necessary. The goal is simple: to ensure that the greatest good is guaranteed for the greatest number of Nigerians.
Fifthly, and finally, President Tinubu is very serious about communicating his administration’s vision and actions and selling the compelling story of Nigeria as Africa’s leading investment destination. He sees himself as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of the Federation and goes the extra mile to fulfill this role with boldness and determination.
A personal testimony: In my work as the Minister of Information and National Orientation, and Head of the National Communications Team (NCT), I can attest to the great support that I have enjoyed from him.
His approval for us to constitute the National Communications Team – bringing together key communications experts in the Presidency and the Federal Government, alongside the heads of our public information agencies – is a testament to his determination to do things differently with public communications.
As we move into the second year of the administration, there is no doubt in my mind that things can only get better for this blessed and beautiful country of ours.
I invite you all to share in this enthusiasm. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Mohammed Idris, fnipr, is the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation of Nigeria.
Choir Master Arrested In Ebonyi After Having An@l $3x With 10-Year-Old Boy, Killed Him Not To Reveal The Truth (Video, Photo)
By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki
A middle aged man identified as Abraham has been arrested by security operatives in Ebonyi State after he was accused of having sex with a little boy.
In a viral video spotted by 9News Nigeria correspondent, the man was seen confessing to the crime and said he actually killed the boy when he wanted to expose the crime.
The man said he killed the little boy through poison (sniper) which he bought at Nwezenyi village because he was afraid of being exposed.
According to Jeremiah Obaji who shared the video, "So this man here who parade as a choir master has been devôurîg a male teenager through the nyash, this hapless boy was entrusted in his care but this bèàst took advantage of the poor minor without the knowledge of the mother."
"Story has it that he K!lled the boy because the boy reported it to someone."
"There's no pûñishment that would be enough to avenge the dèàth of the boy."
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to get the reaction of Ebonyi State Police Command proved abortive.
A Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) of the Nigerian Army, identified as Charles Ogbonna, has been abducted by unidentified gunmen near an army barracks in Makurdi, the Benue state capital.
Ogbonna’s abandoned car was found along the Naka-Makurdi road, with his military ID card inside.
The kidnappers have contacted Ogbonna’s wife, demanding a ransom of N5 million for his release.
Meanwhile, troops from the 72 Para Battalion are actively searching for Ogbonna.
A military source revealed that Ogbonna was on leave from May 10 to May 19, 2024, and was due to report back for duty on May 20 but failed to do so.
The source confirmed that Ogbonna was last seen driving out of the barracks on May 19, heading towards Agenebode.
The search for Ogbonna is ongoing, with intensified efforts by the 72 Para Battalion.
In the meantime, the Nigerian Army is coordinating efforts to locate and rescue Ogbonna, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
EBSU Student Allegedly Commits Suicide After Failing A Particular Course Many Times (Photo, Video)
By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki
A student of Ebonyi State University, identified as Favour Ugwuka has allegedly committed suicide at her hostel in Ishieke, Abakaliki.
In a video seen by 9News Nigeria correspondent, a woman said she is the mother of the young lady blamed a lecturer for making her daughter to commit suicide.
According to the woman, "Dr Enyi Said He Is The Best, Nobody Can Teach Like Him, He Should Come And Carry My Daughter Who Has Committed Sû!cide".
Also, a graduate of the institution identified as Rex Nwome claimed that the girl committed suicide because she has been failing a particular course repeatedly.
According to him, "Favour was my classmate and a best friend to me in English department, the above mentioned lecturer did vow never to allow Favour to graduate, you could imagine where she later passed all the courses except that lecturer that she paid another extra year tuition fee to rewrite unfortunately the man failed her again, what resulted to this intense depression is the latest NYSC name that was recently shortlisted and her name wasn't there."
"The girl really suffered alot of depression because she was only left wandering about the Ebsu seeking for help, she was very desperate to graduate and serve. This and many more of the disgusting stories resulted to this mission."
"I wish she didn't go this far to end her life. R. I. P Ugwuka Favour till we meet to part no more! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭"
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to get the reaction of the University proved abortive.
Politics › Rivers Crisis Continues As PDP, APC Shun Stakeholders’ Parley For LG Elections by Man102(op): 7:05am On Jul 02, 2024
