Traditional rulers in Enugu North Senatorial District on Thursday, reaffirmed their February 16, 2018, unanimous endorsement of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi for a second term in office.
The royal fathers, who met with Gov. Ugwuanyi at the Adada House, Nsukka Local Government Area, shortly before the Enugu North Senatorial District Mega Rally of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), told the governor that they were impressed with his unprecedented achievements in the state, stressing that their Uzo-Uwani decision in 2018 on his re-election stands.
Speaking, the Vice Chairman, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, and Chairman, Enugu North Zonal Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH, Igwe R.S.N Ezeh, thanked Gov. Ugwuanyi for his administration's giant strides in the rural communities, especially the N10 million earmarked for each of the 458 autonomous communities in the state to execute priority projects of their choice under the "One Community One Project" programme.
Igwe Eze added that the Ofor the royal fathers had presented to Gov. Ugwuanyi as a symbol of their endorsement and support for his re-election also stands.
In his speech, the Patron, Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Igwe Osisi Idodo of Essodo, Igbo-Eze North LGA, reassured Gov. Ugwuanyi that "all the traditional rulers will give you 99% votes of our subjects", saying: "you are not contesting election with anybody".
The monarchs, who came out in their numbers, therefore, offered special prayers for the governor's resounding victory at the polls as well as successes in all his other endeavours and asked him to continue to count on their unalloyed support and cooperation.
2019 will surely end in Praise, for Enugu State is truly in the Hands of God! #amokelouis
https://thepunditng.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG-20190214-WA0078.jpg I would prefer to start this article with a long laugh. Unfortunately, the seriousness of the topic at hand will not allow me. Firstly, I am an avid consumer of Twitter and it was not long ago, when people all over Twitter Nigeria, bickered on how the PDP is not a good-enough opposition to challenge the rulling APC. Now, the odds have shifted hands and may be against the incumbent. That is not the reason for writing this article though.
The reason however, is that there is a steady force of acceptance, rocking the foundations of the APC and evenly, cementing the gains of the PDP in the build up to the February 16th polls. Just like a standard military operation, the airstrike (state-wise rallies), are there to cause maximum damage, but the ground forces (grassroots mobilization) come in to mop up the enemies and ensure a decisive victory. Peter Obi has done both, and unlike the proverbial Jack of all trades, he is master of both.
Engaging stakeholders like the NBA, the CAN in various states, the Traders Associations in various markets, the business community in various states, the farmers’ association in the country and the members of the press, is a very peculiar and crucial part of election. Mr. Obi is never known for plenty words, but for actions. Most of the time, the Presidential campaign trail is out there in various states doing the needful, Mr. Obi is deep there in the dirt of the markets and the farms, collating opinions and concerns from the Nigeria people.
Apart from the actual fact that the aforementioned demography are the ‘real’ voters, they also help in feedback gathering. In one of Peter Obi’s surprise visit to a market in the North Central, he was met with so much cheers that he could not speak. When he finally spoke and stated how he was going to introduce the MSMEs model used in supporting innovation in most of Asia, to Nigeria, the audience burst into a unique song coined for every loved person bearing ‘Obi’ as a name. “Obi kererenke Obi,” the happy and cheerful members of the audience chanted, until he departed the market. This is always the case, when he takes a surprise trip to the various markets in the South-West and the South-East where he comes from. The South-South is no different
The role of Obi in the campaign is quite unique. He is the poster boy of the campaign. Everyone, not minding party affiliation, has a soft spot for him and that is why he often receives massive accolades in and out of his territory. Is it related to his pristine achievement in Anambra State as a two-term Governor where he not only performed, but saved money for the state and invested massively in infrastructure for the state? Is it related to his effort at bringing Anambra State from 28th to 1st in education in the whole country? Is it related to his frugal behavior which people see as a panacea to the many cases of wastage that has besieged the foundations of the nation from the power-packed roars of the Aso Rock, to the flat lands of Borno and even to the Irokos of Enugu?
Well, I wouldn’t know. What I know, is that he is loved and no matter how anyone tries to throw a mud at him, it never sticks. He is the force behind the Atiku’s grassroots campaign and he is part of the reason the PDP has become a stronger competitor in the upcoming presidential election, not minding that few months ago, people were labeling the presidential election as a walk over for the APC.
The VP candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP); Peter Obi, has been on the move, ever since the campaign trail hit the ground. However, the sort of mobilization and campaign he would rather engage in, does not always make it to front pages of newspapers and it is understandable. A lot of people have come forward to posit questions; where is Obi? The traders’ favorite politician; Peter Obi, has infact, been all over markets in Nigeria, engaging and speaking to all traders, while amassing high level good will, without spending a dime. Why does he have this unique affinity to traders? Is it perhaps related to the fact that for a long time, he, himself has been a trader?
Obi grew up in a largely business-oriented family. His family owned one of the foremost supermarkets in Onitsha as at then. Obi would go to school and as well, help out at the shop. Guess what? Obi has grown that family supermarket in one part of Onitsha, into a shopping mall having branches across Nigeria. While Next is a family business, Obi for a while has had the opportunity of running it and growing it. Now you see why and how Obi at all times, have the traders at heart?
Obi’s grassroots mobilization is targeted at traders. In all of his market sensitization in the South East, South West, South-South and North Central, he makes sure to tell the traders of what importance it is to vote for a better Nigeria. Half of the South-East voting bloc for instance, is made up of traders and apprentices. This massive sensitization, by Obi who has a stellar reputation in the South East, is what exactly the Atiku/Obi campaign needs. Recall that these are people that will usually vote their conscience as they do not answer to the government of the day in any way.
Obi’s choice of markets in Lagos and Abuja is strategic, considering that those markets control up to 2 million PVC and getting them alerted to what needs to be done, is definitely a huge part of the campaign. Lagos is a battle ground. However, it is not in the PDP’s winning equation. His visits to major markets in Lagos like Ladipo, Balogun, Alaba and the rest, will always make the needed difference, considering that people love him and listen to him.
Obi understands his target voters and has been able to consolidate them, while eating deep into opposition territory. The election is in 3 days and the people of Nigeria will have to choose between business-oriented candidates, or not. The mindset of a trader is one that enables him or her make it without direct government assistance. As such, the Atiku/Obi ticket which believes in giving enabling environment to private businesses, is indeed well suited for the traders and will definitely enjoy their support.
Ozoemena Nonso Noel is a Writer, into profiling. However, he is interested in politics, enough to know that the Private sector deserves better in Nigeria.
Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has expressed confidence that the state will continue to remain peaceful and secure especially during the upcoming elections, under the watch of the new Assistant Inspector General of Police, in charge of Zone 9, AIG Wilson Inalegwu.
Gov. Ugwuanyi spoke when he received in audience the new AIG of Police and other senior officers of the zone at the Government House, Enugu, yesterday.
While welcoming the delegation, the governor maintained that “Enugu State has been very peaceful and is indeed rated as one of the safest and most secure in the country today”.
He commended the Police and other security agencies in the state for their exceptional efforts, cooperation and partnership they have continued to offer, which he said “are indeed responsible for this happy state of affairs in Enugu State”.
Gov. Ugwuanyi, therefore, reassured the new AIG of his administration’s “commitment to sustaining the wonderful relationship we have with the Police and to continue providing necessary assistance and support to the Force towards the successful discharge of its very important duties in the zone and Enugu State in particular”.
Earlier in his speech, AIG Inalegwu, informed Gov. Ugwuanyi that he was on a familiarization tour of states under his jurisdiction, namely, Enugu, Abia, Imo and Anambra States.
The AIG assured that the processes of the upcoming elections will be peaceful, disclosing that he had extensive interaction with the management team of the Enugu State Command, "and we reminded ourselves of our core responsibilities to ensure that the processes are peaceful and that we are professionals in the conduct of our business during the elections".
His words: "Your Excellency, I want to assure you that there is no cause to worry because the officers are well prepared to deliver on their mandate as far as elections are concerned to secure lives and property.I want to assure that all our officers will be professional". #amokelouis
The PDP has massively exhausted the Tafawa Balewa Sqaure, which is the biggest venue for conventions and rallies in Lagos. The Tafawa Balewa Square is three times bigger than the Teslim Balogun Square, which was the venue of the flopped APC Lagos campaign rally. Recall that the APC had their campaign rally in Teslim Balogun Stadium on a weekend, but it was virtually empty, as people could not leave the comfort of their houses for a government that has cost them massive job loss.
However, making more than 30,000 people to attend a rally on a working day such as this, in a highly busy Lagos is worthy of accolades. This shows total acceptability and the yearning of Lagos people for a better Nigeria. Recall that the state has been hit massively by job losses and this rally offers them the opportunity to protest the bad economic policies of the APC-led administration.
Happening now: Thugs Allegedly Sponsored By Tinubu Attempt to Disrupt Lagos PDP Rally
Some thugs allegedly sponsored by the National Leader of the APC, Bola Ahmed Tinubu reportedly tried to disrupt activities at PDP Presidential Rally in Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos earlier today. As at the time of this reporting, men of the Nigeria Police Force overpowered the hoodlums with tear gas and have since returned the place to normalcy. Recall that the APC Ogun rally was disrupted by thugs yesterday, with Nigerians pelting the President and other members of the APC with shoes, slippers and bottled water. More details to follow.
Watch how Kwarans wash away APC badluck off the streets shortly after President Muhammadu Buhari's visit to the state. Women if Ilorin Emirates trooped out to the Emir's palace after Buhari's visit to immediately sweep away bad luck and bad governance. The prayed not to witness such hunger again in Kwara. Also, Kwara youths were quick to converge at the metropolitan square, to say no to Buhari and the APC. They have nothing to offer they said, rather than tell Kwarans what they want to offer, all they did was to sing Saraki throughout their rally.
Dr (Mrs) Jennifer Douglas-Abubakar, wife of the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Alh. Atiku Abubakar has called on the people of Rivers state to vote out the incumbent administration. Adding that they should not just vote, but protect their votes.
She made the call on Monday, in Port-Harcourt during PDP's nationwide campaign tour ahead of Saturday's Presidential election.
"Great people of Rivers state, thank you for your immense support and for standing by your governor. I am rest assured that Rivers state will deliver their votes for PDP at the forthcoming presidential elections.
"We don't have to beg for your votes, I know Rivers state is hundred percent PDP. Come out and vote en mass, bring your children, your husband and all your households, don't just vote stay and protect your votes. Don't let them take away your vote. Women come out en mass let us send them parking".
Mrs Abubakar appreciated the people of Rivers state for their support for their governor and love for Atiku.
Meanwhile, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku has assured that the PDP would not make vain promises as the APC did in 2015 to deceive the people. He said his government will provide jobs, revamp the economy, tackle insecurity and will be gender sensitive.
On his part PDP’s National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus while speaking at the rally said, “Kano has fallen, Kano is now 100 percent PDP.” Secondus said the myth and belief that Kano was the stronghold of Buhari has been shattered with the huge crowd at the Kano stadium. The PDP National Chairman further assured that, the current analogue government must be voted out to a more efficient digital government.
"This analogue government must be changed to a digital one. APC is going, and PDP in taking over. "Buhari is insensitive of the security challenges in the country. He is not aware that the Kano governor is deeply engrossed in corruption", he said.
The senate President who doubles as PDP campaign Director General, Bukola Saraki, called on Rivers people to come out en mass and deliver the vote that will take Atiku to Aso Rock. He avered that Atiku will remove poverty from the land, revamp the economy and create jobs for the youths. He called on them to ensure they don't just vote but defend their votes as well.
On his part the governor of Rivers state, Nyesom Wike described APC as darkness and PDP as light, adding that APC is known for dictatorship but PDP will guarantee everyone's freedom.
Meanwhile fifty-eight governorship candidates from various parties said they are adopting Atiku Abubakar and Nyesom Wike as their candidates. According to them the alliance is as a result of their good works. They described Wike as 'Mr Excellent project' stressing that their withdrawal from the race is to ensure that the elections in Rivers state is peaceful.
The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Party (APC), Prince Dapo Abiodun was, moments ago, endorsed by President Muhammadu Buhari at the just concluded Presidential Rally in Abeokuta.
The National Chairman of APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomole, also presented the symbolic party flag to Abiodun at the well attended rally, which was also witnessed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, some former and serving state governors and party executives.
In his speech, President Buhari thanked the people of Ogun State for the support given to him in 2015. He reeled out his achievements in the areas of combating insurgency, fighting against corruption, and so on; just he promised to do more.
Against the violence that preceded his arrival at the venue, during which several members of the APC were injured and chased out of the stadium by thugs allegedly sponsored by the State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, President Buhari warned that the choice of who to vote for “is a fundamental human right of the people and that there should be no problems about that at all”. He posited that people should be allowed to freely express their choice by voting their preferred candidate.
Ogun APC Apologises The Ogun State Caretaker Committee led by Chief Yemi Sanusi tenders unreserved apology to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari over the gross misconduct, indiscipline, disrespect and disorder perpetrated by agents of Governor Amosun today at the MKO Abiola Stadium.
Governor Amosun, using thugs and other urchins wrecked havoc on members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress for wearing yellow vests and caps of Dapo Abiodun. The thugs at some points, were personally led by Governor Amosun, who was seen on a video that has since gone viral, removing A-Boards and other campaign materials of Dapo Abiodun from the venue. Also members of the Caretaker Committee were debarred from mounting the stage by Amosun’s thugs with obvious compromise of some security agents attached to the Governor.
The unruly acts, not only embarrassed the President and his entourage, but have actually embarrassed the whole people of Ogun State at home and abroad, who have since been expressing their disbelief and disdain.
While tendering this apology, we are happy that the Department of State Security Service and other agencies have details of the sad events, which we urge them to submit to the Presidency.
Wife of the Presidential flag bearer of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Dr (Mrs) Jennifer Douglas-Abubakar has asked Nigerian women to turn out massively to vote and to protect their votes as the 2019 elections kick off next week Saturday with the Presidential and National Assembly elections.
Mrs Abubakar particularly tasked women to lead the vanguard for large turnout of votes especially for her husband, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and other candidates of the PDP on ballot.
Lauding the women of Bayelsa State for the uncommon display of courage and their doggedness in defence of democracy, she told them on Wednesday in Yenogoa, Bayelsa State during her Town Hall meeting to drum up support for the Atiku/Obi presidential ticket.
Mrs Abubakar, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming reception accorded her and her team.
She assured the women that her husband's policy is gender inclusive, beckoning on them to come out en mass and vote for her husband.
According to her, “I am so overwhelmed by the warm reception accorded me. I want you to know that I am one of you. All the women that have come here today, please, I enjoin you to to vote and protect your votes. Deliver your vote and that of your extended families for Atiku come February 16 and get Nigeria working again.
“If they like they should bring in people from Niger and Sudan. We will bring from Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Lagos and all parts of the country. You should rise up and protect your votes. We cannot get there if you don't pick your PVC, your PVC is the only way you can vote Atiku in. Bring all your household vote and protect your votes, to make sure your vote counts. Bayelsa women, you gallantly opposed the military in their armoured vehicle in time past, in defence of democracy, you can do it again.”
Also speaking at the event, Governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, assured Atiku Abubakar that he does not need to campaign in Bayelsa because Bayelsa is the headquarters of PDP, affirming that his victory at the forthcoming polls come is assured.
Governor Dickson stated that “Bayelsa is the headquarters of PDP in Nigeria. I have already assured Atiku Abubakar that he does not need to campaign in Bayelsa state, because all our votes are for him.”
He charged them to vote for all PDP candidates in the forthcoming polls and to also refuse to be intimidated.
Governor Dickson however, tasked Mrs Abubakar to remember Bayelsa women after the victory and offer them appointments.
On her part wife of the PDP Vice Presidential candidate, Mrs Margaret Obi, extolled the role Gov. Dickson played in the unity of PDP, stressing that Bayelsa played a vital role in the emergence of Atiku as the PDP presidential flag bearer for the 2019 election polls.
Mrs Obi further informed Bayelsa women that an Atiku's/Obi government has promised that 70 per cent of his government will constitute women and youths.
Among those accompanying Mrs Abubakar on the campaign trip were the wife of the PDP National Chairman, Deaconess Ene Secondus, PDP Deputy National Woman leader, Hajia Hadizat Umoru and Senator (Mrs) Chris Anyanwu.
Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, represented by his deputy, Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo, in the company of the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; Senator Chukwuka Utazi of Enugu North Senatorial District; a Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Rex Onyeabor; Director-General, South East Governors' Forum, Prof. Simon Ortuanya; a renowned economist, Chief Emeka Ugwuoji; Hon. Dr. Malachy Ugwu of the PDP National Secretariat, among others, receives the Leadership Governor of the Year 2018 Award conferred on him by the Leadership Newspapers.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God. #amokelouis
Worried by the persistent gridlock on Lagos-Badagry expressway, All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has disclosed that palliative works would commence on the road tomorrow (Thursday).
Sanwo-Olu stated that the palliative works that would be embarked upon was his own contribution to reduce travel time on the road.
He disclosed the plan on Wednesday when he received members of the Estate Rent and Commission Agent Association of Nigeria (ERCAAN), actors and actresses at the headquarters of Independent Campaign Group (ICG), Ikeja.
The gubernatorial candidate stressed that Lagos economy nd other activities must be made to move faster than its present state, saying, we must make Lagos move better than it is now.
Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration frustrated the completion of the road and the red-line of the rail projects.
He said: “Our aim was to start the Red-line project but because we did not get enough backing from PDP when I was in government. The project was frustrated. And when we realise that they wanted to do that, we had to shift the focus to blue-line. Even after we started the blue-line project, we were frustrated.”
He disclosed that if elected, the red-line rail project would be completed by his administration, urging the electorate to vote for the party during February 16th and March 2nd, 2019.
While responding to the stakeholders’ demand, he assured that his administration would introduce policies that could improve the status of property in the state.
The gubernatorial candidate explained that this could be achieved if the party wins the Presidential, gubernatorial and other candidate during the poll.
Earlier, Commissioner for Housing, Gbolahan Lawal, assured the stakeholders’ in the property sector that Sanwo-Olu understand the sector and would remove all encumbrances that had served as setbacks in the sector.
Seeking Sanwo-Olu’s assistance, the stakeholders urged the APC candidate to restructure the land grabbing committee because activity of the committee has reduced investors’ confidence in the sector.
They also demanded that the process required for Certificate of Ownership (C of O) be re-modified to reduce the bottleneck in collection exercise.
Wife of the Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Dr (Mrs) Jennifer Douglas-Abubakar, says that the coming elections is a defining moment for Nigeria, calling on Igbos not to let the opportunity of relevance in the next government slip off their hands.
Mrs Douglas-Abubakar also received three governorship candidates in the forthcoming elections in Lagos State who on Tuesday defected to the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP). The trio include on Honourable Solomon Orji of the Green Party of Nigeria (GPN), Chief Abiola Adeyemi of the Democratic People’s Congress (DPC) and Mr. Ogebule Adegboyega of the Freedom and Justice Party (FJP). They moved to the PDP alongside thousands of their supporters and groups.
Mrs. Abubakar assured the governorship candidates and their supporters of equal opportunities in the PDP.
Member of House of Representatives, Honourable Rita Orji, while presenting the defectors, said, PDP would clear all votes in Lagos State.
Orji who is currently representing Ifelodun/Ajeromi federal constituency said, "three governorship candidates of different parties are here to join a train that is moving well. They are here in solidarity, including their supporters and groups, to work for Atiku/Obi."
The FJP candidate, Mr. Adegboyega, who spoke on behalf of other defectors said the candidature of Atiku Abubakar was the best for Nigerians especially at this time that Nigeria is battling with “a lot of challenges.”
He assured Mrs. Abubakar of adequate mobilisation for her husband's victory, so as to end insecurity, hunger, poverty and boost the economy.
While interacting with traders at the Lagos markets in Boundary, Ajegunle; Trinity, Apapa; Car Dealers, Berger; building materials and Alaba Suru markets, Dr Mrs Douglas-Abubakar told the them that the election of the Atiku-Obi ticket would usher in a business friendly environment which would resuscitate dying businesses.
According to her, the "Atiku/Obi Presidency has designed a favourable blueprint which covers security, restructuring and robust economy. When Atiku wins, you will have enabling environment for your businesses because of the friendly nature of his economic policy. You must vote for your own at the forthcoming elections come February 6. This is our chance. Don't just vote, protect your vote. Atiku is detribalized and loves the Igbos, vote for him."
Mrs. Abubakar who averred Igbos are predominant in Lagos tasked the traders to endeavor to pick up their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) and also mobilise their people back home to vote for her husband.
The Igbo traders who came out in their large numbers, drummed up support for the Atiku/Obi ticket, stressing that with Atiku at the helm of affairs their businesses will experience a boost.
The wife of the PDP Presidential candidate was later received by the President of Ohaneze Nd'Igbo, Lagos State chapter, Chief Solomon Ogbonna and hundreds of his members in his office.
Others who were with her during the trip include Senator Chris Anyawu, PDP National Women leader, Hajia Hadizat Umoru and some serving and past members of the National Assembly.
Even his naysayers admit that he’s a game-changer. Love him or not, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Senate President and Chairman of the 8th National Assembly has been the most significant playmaker in Nigerian politics for the last three years.
Known as the single-most important factor in the politics of his home state Kwara, since 2003 when he became the Governor of the State, Saraki, has helped to cultivate a political dynasty that has empowered many young people, while also efficiently working to utilise the limited resources of the state, for the development of his people.
This year, when the Kwara Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), elected Honourable Razak Atunwa as its candidate for governor in the upcoming general elections, Saraki’s silent influence could be felt. This is because, as a medical doctor, a former banker, a former Chief Executive of his state, and now, the Number 3 citizen in the country, Saraki has always prioritised performance and competency when it comes to leadership.
As the Senate representing Kwara Central in the 8th Assembly, Saraki has facilitated over 189 constituency projects as a legislature. From Ilorin to Asa, every community in his constituency has benefitted from his legislative stewardship through the facilitation of road construction projects; erosion control project; renovations of entire schools or classrooms; purchase of textbooks for students; and empowerment projects that are aimed at lifting people out of poverty.
Since 2011, Saraki has also sponsored the payment of JAMB forms for over 2000 students annually, because, as he has said in the past, “The easiest way to develop any community is by lifting its people out of poverty; and the surest way I know how to lift people out of poverty, is to guarantee that they have an education.” This may also be why, since he became a Senator, Saraki has facilitated the construction of over 140 classrooms across Kwara Central and sponsored over 72 young Kwarans on a scholarship, that he pays for in a private capacity.
With the 2019 elections approaching, many Kwarans believe that continuity for development with the PDP, will help the State actualise the vision that was first set forth by Saraki during his first term as Governor. Others, who are torn between Saraki and the APC, still acknowledge the giant strides of the man. While another school of thought remain undecided.
Be that as it may, as Kwarans go to the polls in the coming days and weeks to vote for their leaders at the National and state level, due to his achievements, and those of his political proteges, one thing remains undisputed: Bukola Saraki is still riding high in Kwara.
The Coalition of United Progressive Parties (CUPP) has said contrary to various allegations labeled against the suspended Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Walter Onnoghen, an Interim Investigation Report personally submitted to the Presidency by the EFCC Chairman, has shown that the Federal Government is still groping for evidence of any infractions whatsoever against the Chief Justice.
The CUPP claimed that the report of the EFCC vindicates the Chief Justice, adding that it also makes it clear that the Presidency is engaging in a political war against the CJN solely for the purpose of the 2019 elections.
“They are shopping for just anything. Justice Onnoghen owns only one house which he declared. There are no 55 houses in choice areas nationwide. There are no billions of Naira stashed anywhere in any of the accounts, ” CUPP 1st National Spokesperson, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere said in a statement on Tuesday.
According to him, the report shows just how much that is in the accounts, stressing that Indeed the Presidency from what can be deduced from the report just directed investigative agencies to find anything just to remove the CJN.
Ugochinyere also alleged that the Secretariat of the CUPP has uncovered the latest plot by the Presidency to arrest the chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Walter Onnoghen on Wednesday.
He said the EFCC has “also purchased a Magistrate Court Order to detain the CJN for 14 days.”
According to him, it also proves that the Vice President Pastor Yemi Osinbajo lied to the entire nation when he declared that the President did not know about the prosecution of the CJN and that he did not interfere in the functions of the investigative agencies.
He said, “Nigerians will recall that few hours after we leaked information of their evil plot against the CJN, of forcing him to resign at gun point, threatening the workers on his farm and harassing his lawyers, they have moved forward their plot and have resolved to get him out of office before the 11th February, 2019 so as to bring to a nullity any decision that may be taken by the NJC at its next meeting on the 11th February.
” It will interest Nigerians to know that from the Interim Investigation Report personally submitted to the Presidency by the EFCC Chairman, which we hereby attach, it will be discovered that the Federal Government is still groping for evidence of any infractions whatsoever against the Chief Justice. They are shopping for just anything. Justice Onnoghen owns only one house which he declared.
“The report shows just how much that is in the accounts. Indeed the Presidency from what can be deduced from the report just directed investigative agencies to find anything just to remove the CJN.
“If Justice Onnoghen was corrupt, was it President Buhari that paid him in 2007 to give judgment in his favour? If Justice Onnoghen was corrupt would the EFCC not have found at least a strand of evidence having investigated him as ordered by the President before his eventual appointment as CJN.
” It is clear the Presidency know the impeccable character of the CJN and having not found anything with which to put a leash on his neck to blackmail him to do their bidding, they have resolved to force him our of office so as to get a pliable and malleable justice to sanction their planned rigging of the elections.”
My biggest concern in the upcoming 2019 election is not the diehard northern buharists. My biggest worry, is the tribal taint various APC spokespersons, including Festus Keyamo have cast on the 2019 election. They are tribe-baiting Yorubas into a tribal war with the Igbos. They want to make the 2019 election about tribes and not issues, because they know the issues do not favor them.
They know Buhari is a disaster and a time bomb, but are only interested in the political capital they will make out of this looming national tragedy, if they succeed. To them, 2019 is no longer about Nigeria nor about Buhari's stewardship, but about Obi vs Osibanjo, and 2023 presidency. Who told you that you will be alive till 2023?
I'm not against any region's pursuit for political gain but lying against another region, displaying outright hatred and plot to deceive supporters to see enemies where friends are, should be condemned by all patriotic Nigerians irrespective of tribe. Their anti-nationalist narrative and propaganda is that Igbo's are rooting for Atiku because of Obi. For them, they think it is enough reason for Yoruba to support Buhari because of Osibanjo. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Igbos have never voted based on tribalism. You want a fact check?
In 2003 Igbos voted massively for OBJ/Atiku presidency against a Buhari that had Chuba Okadigbo; an illustrious son of Igbo land, as running mate. More worthy to note, is that there were two Igbo veterans on the presidential ballot; Dim Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu and Jim Nwobodo. You all know what the former meant to Igbo people and yet they voted Yoruba/Fulani ticket for national unity.
In 2007, Igbos voted massively for Yaradua/GEJ (Fulani/Ijaw), against Buhari/Ume Ezeoke and you all know the rest. As at then, the narrative was that Igbos do not love themselves and do not support themselves. No! The truth is that Igbos have too much stake in the economy of Nigeria, and that would not allow them vote in an incompetent person due to tribal affiliations. However, agents of misinformation and destabilization are now tagging Igbos as tribalists just to justify their own unfounded tribalism.
To me personally, dredging of River Niger is more important to our region than having a vice president. As I write this, I have at least 5 Facebook posts, advising that Dr. Akinwumin Adesina would be a good asset in VP position and a perfect gentleman to counter Osibanjo narrative. Millions of Igbos like me exist.
However, with the emergence of Peter Obi, I took a look at his persona and found out that he is in fact a rare gem. He left 76bn Naira in savings for Anambra State. He moved Anambra State from 28th to 1st in UN education ranking. He left a 100m dollar worth of investment for Anambra in a factory, located in Abeokuta, and not in Igbo land. This shows you that Igbos think efficiency, competence and capability first, before tribe. Peter Obi is ahead of his peers and there is no past and present governor that can match his footprints and credibility.
Osibanjo is very good, but a single candle light cannot lit up a huge dark tunnel like Buhari's cabal presidency. With his role in the government, one would clearly see how Buhari rates him. Buhari does not even allow him use Presidential jets and helicopters. He almost died from a crash because he used a chopper owned by a private firm. They don’t rate him and would not rate him in 2023. However, if Osibanjo is the president, there is a 60% chance that Igbo's will vote for him massively to complete his term against Obi, irrespective of obi's credibility. History supports this because Igbos love Ojukwu more than Obi but we voted Obasanjo instead of Ojukwu.
Igbos have paid the highest price for this country's unity and have demonstrated their unalloyed nationalism in many fronts. It's the most insensitive and inhuman act to demonize Igbos as tribalists for not supporting a man that does not know he is the presidential candidate of his party; a man who ran Nigeria into a recession, and continually blames the past administration which in fact, recorded more successes than he did in the economy.
Ekwueme Roy Ifeanyichukwu
Ekwueme Roy Ifeanyichukwu is an Enugu born political economist and social activist who is more interested in politics of participation, rather than politics of representation. He prefers to use capacity, competence, credibility, unity and nationalism as a criteria for chosing his leaders.
Niger state based group, Niger Against Corruption, has alleged that Hon Abdullahi Garba may have compromised the judge handling the suit which will determine who will be the candidate of the APC for Kontagora Mariga Wushishi and Mashegu Federal Constituency. According to the group, Hon Garba boosted during a campaign rally in Wushishi LG that the case is not an issue because he had already bought over the judge.
“After the primary election of the APC a lot of people went to court because they felt cheated by the outcome. “In Niger state there were some cases but none of the cases is as bad as the candidates fighting to represent their people at the House of Representatives . “Among those facing challenges in court is Hon. Abdullahi Idris Garba popularly known as Mai Sola representing Kontagora Mariga Wushishi and Mashegu Fed. Constituency.
“This man despite losing in the primaries as the people are already tired of his woeful representation had his mandate challenged in court but instead of focusing on the legal work before him, he went about compromising the judges. “He even had the audacity to openly tell his supporters in Wushishi LG during his campaign that the case he has in court is not an issue because he had already bought over the judge. “We hope that the people will take note and shame the judge for betraying his/her professional ethics. But most importantly Nigerlites need to wake up and force these dishonorable Honorables out of power. A man who bribes a judge and openly brags about it is not fit to represent his people in any way,” the group stated.
Following what many Nigerians regard as attempt by the Executive to annex the judiciary, the PDP Spokesman, Alhaji Buba Galadima, has come out to state that if Justice Onnoghen was corrupt, he would never have ruled for Muhammadu Buhari in 2008, when the President was believed to have been rigged out of the election.
Justice Onnoghen who was among the three justices in the minority judgement that Muhammadu Buhari rightfully won the 2008 election, has since been suspended by the Buhari administration albeit illegally, because of what many think is connected to the 2019 election later this month. Recall that Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, Justice Oguntade and Justice Walter Nkanu Onnoghen ruled in 2008 for Buhari’s case that the 2007 election was rigged.
Buba Galadima stated that Muhammadu Buhari is not to be trusted by people, since he is one to repay good for evil. The firebrand spokesman in a one vs one interview with the APC spokesperson on Channels TV, have been critical of the Buhari Administration and its policies. He believes that Atiku Abubakar will win the upcoming General election, having that Nigerians are disenchanted about the Buhari administration and the hunger in the land.
Enugu PDP embarks on vigourous campaign, as Nnamani urges electorate to vote massively for Ugwuanyi, others.
Ahead of the forthcoming general election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State has intensified campaign efforts, as the party's governorship candidate, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and its candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District seat and former Governor of the State, Senator (Dr.) Chimaroke Nnamani, on Saturday, embarked on a vigorous exercise on the streets and suburbs of Enugu, canvassing for votes.
Speaking during the campaign at the various areas visited amid excitement and cheers from teeming party supporters and admirers, such as Bridge Quarters by Railway, Enugu, Iva Valley, Coal Camp and Ogui Nike, Senator Nnamani thanked God for using Gov. Ugwuanyi, whom he described "a great leader and a man of uncommon leadership virtues who respects the symbol and heritage of Nsukka", to revive his political ambition, urged the people of Enugu State to massively vote for the governor, himself and other candidates of the party in the state.
Senator Nnamani who could not hide his gratitude to Gov. Ugwuanyi, prayed God to give the governor good health, strength, wisdom and protect him and his family.
Gov. Ugwuanyi who appreciated Senator Nnamani's human empowerment gesture, especially the leadership role he played in the political life of virtually every politician in the state today, equally appealed to the people to remember him in prayers and give him 100 percent votes to return to the Senate.
It was indeed a colourful outing for the PDP in Enugu State as the exercise lasted till late in the evening.
Enugu State is truly in the hands of God! #amokelouis
"Your PVC is your power, use it"- Jennifer Abubakar
Wife of the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr (Mrs) Jennifer Douglas-Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to get their Permanent Voters Card (PVC), and use it to vote out the current government if they must enjoy the dividends of democracy.
Mrs Abubakar who has been accompanying her husband in a series of campaign rally in the South-east and South-south regions across the country, on Saturday in Umuahia, Abia state, tasks "Abians" to get their PVC and vote out the incumbent government come February 16.
"If you are tired of the hunger and starvation, joblessness and insecurity in this country, then go and get your PVC and vote for Atiku at the forth coming polls, on February 16", she said.
She expressed confidence that her husband Alh. Atiku Abubakar possesses all it takes to address the economic and security challenges that have bedeviled this country. she told electorates that Abubakar will tap from his wealth of knowledge and experience to "get Nigeria working again". She averred that she has known Atiku for quite a long period of time and can vouch to his competency.
"I have known Atiku for over 35 years, and I make bold to say that he is the right man to revive Nigeria's economy as well as empower the youths and women.
"Atiku Abubakar is the best candidate to salvage this country from the current economic decadence. His administration will give special recognition to the youths and women of Nigeria. He will tackle issues of security and unemployment", she added.
Speaking at the Presidential rally at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium , in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, she asserted that the presence of the tumultuous crowd that filled the stadium to capacity contradicts speculations that Ebonyi state is not a PDP state.
"They said your governor David Umahi doesn't like PDP and doesn't want Atiku to win. With this overwhelming crowd here today, isn't it obvious that he is totally in support of PDP?", she asked.
While appreciating Ebonyi people for their massive turn out and support, she asked them to come out en mass and cast their votes for the duo of Atiku and Obi Presidential ticket and all the candidates of PDP.
"I want to call on all the youths and women of Ebonyi state, to come out en mass to vote for Atiku and Obi, and all the contesting PDP candidates".
The people's democratic party presidential candidate in the 2019 general elections, Atiku Abubakar took his cpaign train to Enugu and Ebonyi yesterday.
Politics › Enugu Monarchs Revalidate Endorsement Of Ugwuanyi's Re-election by OEPHIUS(op): 8:55pm On Feb 14, 2019
