₦airaland Forum

cucumbar:
Obi won the last time.

Tinubu knows this.

They were lucky the masses were docile when the mandate was stolen by the current thief.

They don’t want a repeat. That’s why they are all out for him.

He said, “Some of them stole railway funds.

Some were Senate Presidents for years and could not build roads to their villages.

Some sold off Nigeria’s assets

and even ushered in Boko Haram and kidnappers.

These same people now want to form new parties. Today, SDP, tomorrow ADC, next ADA.

“That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from?

TimeManager:
While Atiku's groups in the North are issuing their warnings to Peter Obi, Amaechi's groups in the SS are issuing theirs. Obi has only two options - get in and get stuck or get out. The fact that they told him the door is open suggests they don't need him more than he needs them.


-Kiss the truth!

Amumaigwe:
Subterfuge. Voice of Easu, hand of Jacob. The North should try harder.

“If Obi is looking for where he will be given a free presidential ticket, the door is open.

“Records have shown that Mr. Obi has a history of running away from primary elections, which is a major aspect of democratic culture. If Mr. Obi claims to be a democrat, why is he always avoiding the primary election? Why is he looking for a free presidential ticket? He did that as a governor, and as recently as 2023, Mr. Obi abandoned PDP when it was time for the primary election.

“We hereby call on Mr. Peter Obi to stop his pretentious lifestyle as if he is a saint or the only Messiah Nigeria is waiting for.

zero8zero:
But ipob won't remember that SE destroyed regionalism in 1966 and replaced it with unitary system. Then again, Nwabueze who also drafted the 1979 constitution confessed of taking away 50% of powers from the local and states government in the residual and concurrent list and added those powers into the exclusive lists of the federal government because the objective was to solidify the unitary system and makes the center more powerful. It was the same man because his conscience would not allow him rest, called for the abolishment of 1999 constitution but couldn't live to witness it till he died in 2023. When we come in public to make certain allegations, there are those to whom history will not be kind to.

SmartPolician:
You most likely started reading the news yesterday. I won't write more than this and won't reply you again either.

SmartPolician:
Oga, rest! NASS reviewed and amended the constitution under every president that came in. It didn't start with Tinubu and won't end with him. The problem is that they always leave the key issues untouched.

If Tinubu can actually influence the outcome of this constitution amendment, we want to have state police and resource controlled by states before the next general election. After all, Tinubu has always called for true federalism.

The key takeaway from the North West Zonal Public Hearing of the Constitutional Review held over the weekend, in Kaduna, the defunct administrative capital of Northern Nigeria, is that Stakeholders in the region, are shifting away for an entrenched traditional agitation for status-quo, to that of strategic alignment, on what the new constitution should look like.

This observation is deductible from the various position papers submitted by states in the region, on the move by the National Assembly to re-engineered the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The North West zonal public hearing which took place Saturday at the late General Hassan Katsina House, Kawo Kaduna, had in attendance a diverse array of political leaders, civil society groups, traditional rulers, and grassroots stakeholders.

The occasion provided opportunity for the various state, and non-state actors in the region to ventilate their opinions, and make suggesting on the ongoing constitutional review that is expected to capture the aspirations of all Nigerians.

The fact that the region is moving away from the traditional opposition to true federalism and strategic alignment to a more balance federalism, was reflected in the position of the stakeholders, particularly, the views canvased for by states, such as: Kaduna, Kano, and Katsina states, at the event.

Worthy of note is the call by the Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State Governor, who during the hearing make a case for a far-reaching constitutional reform to entrench true federalism that will grant states control over natural resources within their territories.

Speaking through his deputy, Hadiza Balarabe, Governor Sani stated that the country’s current centralised federal system has not only stifled innovation but also alienated citizens from governance.

The position of the governor as regard this topic, negate what is known over the time as the traditional opposition of political actors in the region to the issue of an entrenched constitutional right that will grant sub-national entities, right over natural resources in their territory.


He said the imbalance in fiscal control and legislative power has exacerbated agitations and instability.

“Our current federal arrangement does not sufficiently reflect the principle of subsidiarity — where powers and responsibilities are devolved to the level of government closest to the people.

“States must be empowered not only to legislate on local matters but also to control and directly benefit from the resources found within their jurisdictions, while making constitutionally defined contributions to national development,” said.

The governor described fiscal federalism as a constitutional necessity, not a favour to states, saying that “ignoring these genuine yearnings could continue to undermine Nigeria’s unity.”

He also reiterated his longstanding advocacy for the establishment of state police, noting that bills he sponsored in the 9th Senate were stalled due to political disagreements.

However, he expressed optimism, saying the political consensus for decentralised policing was now stronger than ever.

“Security cannot be national if it is not local. Kaduna is ready to support constitutional amendments that will institutionalise state police and improve our collective security architecture,” he said

Sani further advocated for the constitutional independence of critical institutions like the judiciary, INEC, and anti-graft agencies, and called for affirmative measures to promote women’s participation in governance.

He also urged for stronger roles and constitutional recognition for traditional rulers as governance partners at the grassroots level.

Another thing what noting which came out of the public hearing was the support given by Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf of Kano State, for the creation of additional states out of the present federated states in Nigeria.

During the public hearing, Governor Abba made case for the creation of an additional state out of the present Kano state, and the creation of 26 new local government areas, while Katsina State emphasized devolution of powers and institutional strengthening as pathways to national unity and democratic consolidation.

In a similar vein, Kano State demanded for the creation of a new state out of its current territory and the establishment of 26 additional local government areas, raising the number from 44 to 70.

Speaking through his deputy, Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, Governor Abba said that the demands were rooted in a rigorous, participatory process involving citizens across the state.

“Kano identifies with the yearnings of various communities for restructuring and supports the creation of new states, provided such moves comply with Section 8 of the Constitution,” Gwarzo stated.

“We also strongly advocate the creation of 26 additional local governments to meet the developmental aspirations of our people,” Gwarzo stated.

The Kano memorandum, signed by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, also demanded full constitutional recognition and autonomy for local governments, proposing amendments to Sections 2(2), 7 and 162(5) to solidify their status as the third tier of government.

On security, Kano backed the call for state police, but stressed the need for clear demarcation of responsibilities between state and federal police forces to prevent operational conflict.

The state also proposed a National Council of Traditional Rulers, comprising chairpersons of state traditional councils, to advise the Federal Government on national issues. It pushed for constitutional protection of the appointment process of traditional rulers to guard against political interference.

In the fiscal arena, Kano proposed a revision of the revenue allocation formula—reducing the Federal Government’s share from 52.68% to 40%, increasing state allocations to 35%, and raising LGAs’ share to 25%.

“This will ensure fiscal justice, empower states and LGAs to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities and foster balanced development,” the memo read.

Kano also threw its weight behind the National Assembly’s gender equity agenda, pledging support for legislative reforms that would increase women’s representation in politics and governance.

“The memorandum we submitted today reflects the collective will of Kano people. We urge the National Assembly to give our modest proposals the serious consideration they deserve,” Gwarzo said.

Meanwhile, Katsina State presented a position paper delivered by its Governor Dikko Umar Radda, describing the constitution review process as a critical national assignment.

The Governor said the memorandum from Katsina reflected deep stakeholder consultations and prioritised fiscal federalism, institutional reforms, and inclusive governance.

Governor, who was represented by the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Fadila Mohammed Dikko said, “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the significance of this moment. The Constitution is the foundation of our democracy, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that it is robust, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all Nigerians.

“The position paper that I present to you today is the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders across Katsina State.

“It reflects our commitment to the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria. We believe that the proposed amendments should prioritize the devolution of powers, fiscal federalism, and the strengthening of institutions.

“We also believe that the Constitution should promote inclusive governance,
social justice, and human rights. The position paper outlines our stance on key issues, including local government reforms, electoral reforms, judicial reforms, and security and policing.”
He pledged Katsina’s commitment to a united and prosperous Nigeria and called on all stakeholders to approach the amendment exercise with sincerity and patriotism

“Let us work together to build a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all,” he urged.

In his address, while declaring the public hearing open Madaki Aliyu Sani, chairman of the House of Representatives Sub-Committee on Constitution Review for North West Centre, expressed the commitment of the National Assembly to an inclusive and transparent review process.

“We are not just revising words on paper; we are refining the tools of nation-building,” Madaki, who is also the Deputy Minority Leader of the House, declared.

He said the process would examine 86 bills across 13 thematic areas, including security, devolution of powers, gender inclusion, traditional institutions, and fiscal reforms.

“No voice will be too small, no idea too radical, and no region too remote to be heard,” he assured.

Meanwhile, while, responding to enquires on what seems to be the shift of public opinion in the region from traditional opposition on key national issues, to that of alignment, Mercy Musa, who is the executive director of Frontier for Peace Advocacy and Governance Initiative (FPAGI), a Kano based NGO, described the development as a positive indicator, that Nigerians are now ready to truly build a new Nigeria.

Mercy noted that the shift in public opinion as witnessed during the North West Zonal Public Hearing represents a golden opportunity for Nigeria to fashion out a pro-people constitution that ensure inclusion that ensure socio-economic and political well -being of all the citizens.

esnbrutality:
When Jonathan wanted to rename UNILAG you protested abi? Anyway..it will be done.

jmoore:
Use of English:F9

You don't understand the word 'mostly'.

jmoore:
Do you even understand the circumstances of most names of the streets?
You don't.

It's mostly the first person that develops a land in an undeveloped area, that applies to the government for the Street to be named.

So you should be asking how many Yoruba people have gone to a bush in southeast, clear it and develop it.

Benzigler:
You are right, Anioma is part of South West, i hope you won't repeat this comment any day you step foot in Anioma, if you like take my advice and if you don't, then all the best, ire oo

PlasmaTV:
Everything rises and falls on leadership - John C. Maxwell.

If the head is bad, the followers will equally be bad.

Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) allegedly involved in supplying logistics and military-grade items to Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, confirmed the arrests during the weekly military operations briefing held on Thursday in Abuja.

The suspects, identified as Isah Abdullahi and Abdullahi Mohammed, were intercepted by troops at Liya in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State while taking delivery of a suspicious consignment from a truck driver.

Upon searching the package, the troops recovered 13 pairs of military uniforms, high-voltage batteries, and other sensitive items.

The recovery followed actionable intelligence indicating the consignment was intended for insurgents operating around the southern part of Borno.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were acting on behalf of terrorist elements. The uniform and batteries were being transported under the guise of normal waybill logistics,” said Maj. Gen. Kangye.

In a related development, troops also apprehended 65-year-old Shaibu Bulama, another terrorist logistics supplier, at Damasak Motor Park in Yobe State. Bulama was allegedly involved in financing and coordinating movement of supplies to insurgents along the Lake Chad Basin.

The Defence Headquarters described these arrests as major breakthroughs in dismantling the Boko Haram supply network and reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorist groups any freedom of movement or access to resources.

“These operations are yielding results thanks to improved intelligence sharing and vigilance by our personnel. The war on terror is being won not only on the battlefield but also by disrupting enemy logistics,” Kangye added.

He called on citizens, especially transport operators and logistics handlers, to be alert and report any suspicious consignments or transactions.

Benzigler:
I agree with you, South-East should get more state, surprised no Anioma state

Babangidapikin:
Na wa o you people did not pity Taraba .. the State is too big na

tishbite41:
Why an Islamic Bank?!
The devil 😈 gives you one and takes ten
Alex Otti, be very careful
You're becoming very complacent
It seems the hype is getting into your head

iwaeda:
They accused Atiku of wanting to sell them to his friends, please who is Tinubu selling to. Nigeria is a funny country, even the so called educated defends evil.

treesun:
I sat down I calucluted, the money spent could have built a new refinery like Dangote!

Shawarmagirl:
Successive APC administrations have poured over $18 billion into the so-called rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries. The current administration is reported to have spent another $2.8 billion under the same pretext.

If you are a youth and still in Nigeria, I pity you and your generation because the best of Nigeria is what y'all is witnessing now. It will only get worst.

treesun:
I sat down I calucluted, the money spent could have built a new refinery like Dangote!

Racoon:
Crooks who thinks they are smart to hide their criminality of the homongous TAM they have corruptly embezzled in the name of revamping the moribund refineries they know can not and never work. These set of fellas must be brought to justice sometime someday.

I love how this ADC does not waste time but has been giving the APC wotoporously( as the LP via Peter Obi have been doing) against every corruption and corrupt baggages of this irresponsible govt.

matify83:
If Nigeria were a company or a football club, her managers would have since been sacked and prosecuted.

Our "Baby steps of pain" seem to be self inflicted.

iwaeda:
They accused Atiku of wanting to sell them to his friends, please who is Tinubu selling to. Nigeria is a funny country, even the so called educated defends evil.

Shikini:
Abacha's regime will be a child's play by the time Tinubu finishes with Nigeria
.

givedemwotowoto:
We told everyone that refineries working was just propaganda

Morbeta11:
https://gazettengr.com/tinubu-apc-spent-18-billion-to-repair-refineries-then-quietly-sold-them-without-audit-adc/

indigenous234:
All I see here is own goal by the Soludo administration. Peter Obi said Sabmiller is the single largest indigenous contributor in terms of tax to the Anambra govt and the Soludo Admin just confirmed same and scored an own goal because Peter Obi also said since he left office over 13yrs ago, no other Anambra governor has attracted such direct foreign investment. I’m trying to rubbish Obi, they inadvertently confirmed his claim 💯

Chidibe212:
With this information, it's proven that Mr Peter Obi was right on his statement.

Banks are not government-attracted investments. I and we will keep this information for future reference, before you tell us that investment in SABMILLER is next to nothing.

Aside from Banks, SabMiller is the highest. and, Peter Obi was also right to say "it's one of the highest taxpayers in Anambra State"

mrvitalis:
But it's the highest paying local company in Anambra
Fidelity is still linked to who? Obi?