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Category: Politics

  • Political Turmoil in Rivers State as Lawmakers Sign Impeachment Notice for Governor Siminalaye Fubara

    Political Turmoil in Rivers State as Lawmakers Sign Impeachment Notice for Governor Siminalaye Fubara

    By Milcah Tanimu

    In a significant turn of events, the political crisis in Rivers State escalated on Monday when members of the state Assembly reportedly signed an impeachment notice directed at Governor Siminalaye Fubara.

    During a session presided over by the Speaker, Rt Hon Martins Amaewhule, and attended by a substantial number of assembly members, the Leader of the House, Hon Edison Ehie, and those loyal to the governor were suspended from their roles.

    Reports suggest that an explosion had taken place at the Assembly premises on Sunday night, purportedly intended to obstruct the lawmakers’ access to the Assembly on Monday.

    Defying these challenges, several lawmakers entered the House as early as 7 a.m. and promptly commenced a plenary session where they collectively endorsed the impeachment notice against Governor Fubara.

    Furthermore, armed policemen have cordoned off the entire Moscow Road leading to the Rivers State House of Assembly, adding to the tense and uncertain situation in the region.

  • Meseko’s Electrifying Rally in Kogi: APC’s Bold Vision for Economic Triumph!

    By Noah Ocheni, Abuja

    In a recent meeting with journalists from Kogi state, Hon. Duro Meseko, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressive Congress (APC), encouraged Kogi voters to cast their ballots in favor of the APC to drive economic growth in the state. Meseko emphasized the substantial progress made by the APC in Kogi State, particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, road construction, agriculture, and empowerment of youth and women.

    Meseko underscored the need for Kogi voters to reciprocate Governor Yahaya Bello’s efforts over the past eight years by supporting the APC’s candidate, Alhaji Usman Ododo, for continuity and consolidation. He argued that in the current political climate, Kogi State should align with the APC, which is in power at the national level.

    According to Meseko, Kogi State must participate in the federal government’s plans, such as the Ajaokuta steel project initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including the establishment of a steel development ministry and the appointment of a native of the state as the minister. Meseko called on Kogi electorates to vote for the APC for the sake of continuity and consistent governance in the state.

    Regarding the upcoming off-season governorship elections in Bayelsa and Imo states, Meseko expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to secure victories. He acknowledged that the APC had prepared meticulously for these elections and noted that, in a previous election, the party won in Bayelsa but lost due to legal technicalities.

    Meseko stressed that the people who supported the APC in Bayelsa remain committed, and he believed they would continue to support the party due to the benefits of aligning with the ruling party at the national level. In the case of Imo State, Meseko commended Governor Hope Uzodimma’s performance and expressed his support for the governor’s re-election to continue the state’s development.

    In conclusion, Meseko congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their landmark victory at the Supreme Court and urged politicians to refrain from unnecessary posturing during elections, particularly concerning matters clearly defined by the country’s constitution.

  • Supreme Court Verdict; NADECO releases protests guidelines

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), USA, on Thursday morning (Nigerian Time) called for either celebrations or protests depending on the judgement on Thursday by the Supreme Court.

    NADECO made the release against the appeals lodged by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) against the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)

    The foremost Nigerian pro-democracy group, in a statement signed by the Executive Director, Lloyd Ukwu, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade David Adenekan, released guidelines for either celebrations or protests after the verdict of the apex court.

    The statement, a soft copy of which was made available to Journalists reads in part:

    “The Nigerian Supreme court will deliver to the Nigerian people one of two things: Justice or Injustice. “So Nigerians must be prepared to react accordingly.

    “Nigerians would know injustice when they see it and by the same token would know it if what they get is justice.

    “NADECO does not want to dictate to the Supreme Court on how to rule but NADECO expects that the Nigerian Supreme Court will deliver pure and undiluted justice to the deserving Nigerian people.

    “If Mr. Justice is delivered Nigeria should prepare to celebrate and embark on Appreciation March. The Appreciation March is basically to appreciate the Supreme Court justices for living up to their constitutional responsibilities.

    “For standing on the side of history. Nigerians should carry out a celebratory March to honor the Supreme Court.

    “In the event that Mr. Injustice is delivered by the Supreme Court, Nigerians must also rise up but only this as a protest and not a celebratory march.

    “GUIDELINES FOR THE PROTEST

    “All protesters must have flags in one hand and water in the other hand. Flags symbolize patriotism while the water is for peace and energy. We recommend white or green shirts to be worn by the protesters.

    “There must be no violence.

    “Along with protesters, we encourage the security agencies to join in the protests.- the army, the civil defense, the police, the DSS, and other agencies. They should armsling their weapons and join the protesters. It is important for security agencies to join in the protest to ensure that the protests are orderly and without any disturbances.

    “After all the security personnel are Nigerians first, they took an oath to defend and protect the Constitution and not the Presidency. To defend Nigeria and Nigerians.

    “All businesses must remain open. The shops and businesses along the protest route should encourage the peaceful protesters by providing water and snacks where possible.

    “The protesters need water, food, and other items. The protest will continue until the elements of injustice are completely flushed out in Nigeria.”

    However, Nigerians are yet complied or witnessed any protest after the judgement since on Thursday when it was delivered in favour Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  • Appeal Court Overturns Representative Member’s Election: John Dafaan (APC) Declared Winner

     

    In a significant legal development, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has nullified the election of Isaac Kyale Kwallu, who represented the Qua’an-Pan/Shendam/Mikang Federal Constituency in the 10th National Assembly. This ruling, which took place on Friday, resulted in the removal of Kwallu and the affirmation of John Moenwul Dafaan of the APC as the rightful representative.

    The electoral contest in question saw Kwallu, a member of the PDP, initially declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on February 27, 2023, with 74,645 votes. His closest rival, John Moenwul Dafaan of the APC, secured 43,467 votes.

    Expressing dissatisfaction with the election outcome, John Moenwul Dafaan, the former Chief of Staff to the ex-Governor Lalong, took legal action through his counsel S. S. Obende. Dafaan approached the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Jos on March 17, seeking three key determinations:

    1. Asserting that the PDP had no valid or legitimate structures as it had defied a court order to conduct a fresh Congress.
    2. Claiming that there was substantial over-voting and non-compliance with electoral laws and regulations.
    3. Requesting that the Certificate of Return be issued to him, the first petitioner.

    The three-man tribunal dismissed Dafaan’s case (EPT/PL/HR/06/2023) on the grounds that it lacked merit. Justice William Rotimi Olamide, in a unanimous decision, stated that challenges to a candidate’s nomination and sponsorship by political parties should be addressed in the federal high court and that only party aspirants have the standing to do so. The petitioners failed to provide evidence of non-compliance, over-voting, or other irregularities, leading to the dismissal of their petition.

    Undeterred, the petitioners sought to challenge the tribunal’s ruling at the highest level of the judiciary. In a judgment delivered in Suit No: CA/J/EP/PL/HR/18/2023, the Appellate Court emphasized the importance of obeying court orders and ruled that the PDP had no valid candidate due to its disregard of the court’s orders. The court also stressed that the Constitution did not provide for Independent Candidacy.

    The three-man panel ordered INEC to revoke the Certificate of Return previously issued to Kwallu (the 2nd Respondent) and instead issue it to Dafaan (the 1st appellant) as the duly elected representative. This decision marks a turning point in the political landscape of the Qua’an-Pan/Shendam/Mikang Federal Constituency.

  • Ohanaeze Ndigbo Calls for Congratulatory Gesture from Atiku and Obi to President Tinubu

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo Calls for Congratulatory Gesture from Atiku and Obi to President Tinubu

     

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has extended its congratulations to President Bola Tinubu on the historic verdict delivered by the Supreme Court, affirming him as the rightful winner of the 2023 Presidential election held on February 25th. This significant decision marks the conclusion of the 2023 electoral process.

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo lauds the Supreme Court for its thorough examination and just judgment in this case, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic institutions and the rule of law. In light of this outcome, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon the Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party (LP) candidate, Peter Obi, to follow the example set by Former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 by congratulating President Tinubu on his Supreme Court victory.

    This act of sportsmanship and magnanimity is vital for promoting unity, healing divisions, and setting a positive precedent for their respective supporters. The Nigerian public eagerly awaits Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi’s public congratulations to President Tinubu, which will signal an end to perceived political animosities that have marked the 2023 election season.

    Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, officially congratulates President Tinubu on his victory and encourages him to demonstrate magnanimity in his win. President Tinubu is urged to extend a hand of friendship and reconciliation to his political opponents, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, as a display of true sportsmanship. By fostering unity and inclusivity, President Tinubu has the opportunity to create an environment where all Nigerians can work together for the progress and development of the nation.

    Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls on the diaspora chapter of NADECO (National Democratic Coalition) to cease any plans for opposition against President Tinubu. The time has come for all Nigerians to come together, regardless of political affiliations, to support the elected government. Unity and collaboration are essential in addressing the challenges ahead and in building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterates its commitment to advancing the interests and well-being of the Igbo people and all Nigerians. The organization acknowledges and commends the Supreme Court’s verdict, which marks the conclusion of the 2023 Presidential elections. Now is the time to focus on promoting peace, unity, and progress as the nation collectively strives for a brighter future under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

  • ARISE Agenda: Gov Eno solicits for corporate partnership

    ARISE Agenda: Gov Eno solicits for corporate partnership

    By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
    Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has solicited for the partnership of corporate bodies in the actualization of the ARISE Agenda blueprint of his administration by assisting in the execution of education, agricultural and health projects in the state.
    Eno made the call yesterday in Uyo when he embarked on facility tour of ongoing construction of CKS Model Primary School in company of a delegation from Sterling Petrochemical And Fertilizer Limited based in Eastern Obolo Local Council.
    Conducting the delegation round the project which is nearing completion , the Governor appealed to the company to adopt any of the laudable projects spelt out in the Agenda blueprint for execution, reasoning that such collaboration would fast tract development in the rural communities.
    “This is the management of Sterling Petro-Chemicals. They have a presentation to make to government and members of the community where they operate in Eastern Obolo and they are building a very large Petro-chemical Plant in Akwa Ibom so we are partnering as government in providing the enabling environment in the community for them to do their business.
    ” I used the opportunity to also ask them to support the ARISE agenda through their corporate social responsibility by adopting one of our projects in the area where they operate whether it’s a model school, health centre or a market, we’ll like to see them do something.
    “They’ve done a lot from what I know in supporting the community. That should continue but we’ll also like them to take a bold step and not just them, but we would start with them.
    “We’ll talk with other Corporate Organisations. Our people must be gainfully employed, our young people, our children must be well groomed because they represent the future and I feel as cooperate organisations come into the state, they key into what we’re doing for their names to be written in gold.” He said.
    The State Chief Executive who acknowledged the modest contributions of the company in the development of their operational communities was however emphatic that he was not soliciting funds for the projects but actual participation by the companies operating in the State in project execution.
    , stressing that the initiative will open doors of employment to the youths as well as grow the State economy .
    “We’re not asking them to give us the money, we’re simply saying look at the model we have put on ground, adopt it as part of your corporate social responsibility. And I know Mr Mohit here and I had to bring him personally to see.
    “That’s what I mean by doing a model. People need to see what you’re talking, you walk the talk so that’s why we came here before we go into the meeting so he can make up his mind whether to do one, depending on what their management will decide.” Eno explained.
    The Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr Mehit said the company is committed to the realization of the ARISE Agenda which centers on development at the grassroots, assuring that the company would take up one of the projects for execution to enliven the social environment in their areas of operation.
    He hinted that the company is undertaking projects at the Western and Eastern axis of Eastern Obolo LGA and would, as part of its corporate social responsibility, spread its development projects to other parts of the State by creating infrastructure.
    ” We’re totally committed to His Excellency’s ARISE Agenda, we’re going to evaluate the projects that will come in each of the areas and I’m assuring His Excellency today and all Akwa Ibomites that we would take one of the projects in Akwa Ibom.
    “Right now we are doing projects in Eastern Obolo, on the Western axis and Eastern axis of Eastern Obolo but our footprint is across Akwa Ibom and we commit that we would create development here, we would create infrastructure and lift the social environment for Akwa Ibomites,” he assured .

  • Oyo Govt Extends Olive Branch Amid NLC Deadline; Showcases Worker-Centric Policies

    An appeal has gone to Oyo State workers to compliment the efforts the government is making on their welfare by being reflective when considering nation-wide strike.

    In a release by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Friday, no state in the federation places more emphasis on the well-being of its workers than the present administration: Not even richer states.

    It will be recalled that the Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State branch, gave the State government till the end of October, 2023 to increase minimum wage by N30, 000 for civil servants and N20, 000 for pensioners, as approved by the Federal government, to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal.

    Prince Oyelade said that without being advised by the state NLC, the Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, out of his personal discretion, set up a committee on June 5, 2023, to review salaries of workers, barely a week after President Tinubu’s announcement of the removal of subsidy.

    This same administration has consistently for 55 months, paid workers’ salaries on or before the 25th of every month, and paid 13th month salaries for 4 years, which now includes state pensioners.

    The Commissioner asked workers and the people of the State to remember that the Seyi Makinde-led administration at inception increased payment of gratuities to pensioners from N100m to over N200m every month. In fact, only last month, cheques worth N208m were released as gratuities to pensioners in Oyo State.

    While it is a fact that the financial state of the nation requires increment of workers’ salaries, Oyo State workers equally reserve the right to seek local solutions in dialogue with a friendly government, especially on issues that are not caused by the State Government, such as the fuel subsidy removal.

    According to the release, the State government has responded swiftly and effectively to cushion the effect of the subsidy removal by setting up the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) intervention in the State, which is addressing the current economic realities in the state.

    In this regard, different types of essential food items are being distributed to the poorest of the poor, while 46 buses are plying roads in Oyo State, at subsidised fares.

    Farmers and young entrepreneurs are being assisted with N1.5bn soft loans, through zonal Microfinance banks, while pensioners and other vulnerables in the society are being assisted through specially designed free healthcare schemes.

    The third face of SAfER will take off in due course.

    It is on record also, that the Oyo State government started the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage, over 3 years ago, yet up till now, some states in the federation are still struggling to pay the old wage.

    The challenges of paying N7.3 billion monthly salaries notwithstanding, the Seyi Makinde administration distributed 7,000 letters of promotion to qualified civil servants just last week.

    Prince Oyelade said, “we are talking about an administration that has made a covenant with its workforce and local dialogue and understanding should take precedence over instructions from elsewhere”.

    Beyond ultimatum and deadline, labour leaders should take advantage of the cordial relationship that exists between them and the government and accept the olive branch.

  • European Union Study Fair Is Not a Gateway to ‘Japa,’ EU Cautions Nigerian Students

    European Union Study Fair Is Not a Gateway to ‘Japa,’ EU Cautions Nigerian Students

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuella Isopi, issued a warning on Thursday to Nigerians considering participating in the Study in Europe fair. Isopi clarified that the fair is not an avenue for students to engage in the popular notion of ‘Japa,’ or emigrating to Europe.

    She made this statement in Kano while inaugurating the first-ever Study in Europe fair in Nigeria and the West Africa region. Isopi emphasized that the initiative’s purpose goes beyond just providing educational opportunities for young Nigerians to study in Europe. It also aims to foster cooperation between universities and higher education institutions in Europe and Nigeria.

    Isopi explained that pursuing education in Europe can equip students with the skills needed for success in life while also contributing to the development of Nigeria’s human capital, which is crucial for the country’s progress.

    She highlighted that for over a decade, the Erasmus program has been accessible to students from all around the world. Since 2014, more than 800 talented Nigerian students have been granted scholarships under the Erasmus program, with 135 Nigerians receiving scholarships this year and commencing their master’s programs in Europe.

    Isopi noted, “This is the first time that the European Union and its member states have jointly organized a Study in Europe fair in Nigeria and the entire West Africa region. This event is aimed at connecting people through educational opportunities for young Nigerians studying in Europe and promoting cooperation between European and Nigerian universities and higher education institutions.”

    She went on to express gratitude to the European partners who participated in the fair, hailing from various European Union member states. These partners included 18 European higher education institutions and five national education services. Isopi emphasized the potential for collaboration between these European partners and educational institutions in Kano and northern Nigeria.

    Isopi also pointed out that there are now thousands of degree programs and courses taught in English throughout the European Union. She encouraged Nigerian students to explore the opportunities Europe has to offer, particularly highlighting the Erasmus program as one of the most successful initiatives for international education and youth exchanges.

    In conclusion, Isopi expressed the EU’s commitment to fostering educational collaboration and opportunities for Nigerian students, with a goal of further strengthening the ties between Europe and Nigeria.

  • Senate Approves Establishment of Federal University in Ekiti for Technology and Environmental Sciences

    Senate Approves Establishment of Federal University in Ekiti for Technology and Environmental Sciences

    By Daniel Edu

    The Nigerian Senate has given its approval to a bill proposing the establishment of a Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom, Ekiti State. The university’s primary goal is to produce world-class technologists and human resources capable of sustainably managing the country’s economy. The bill, sponsored by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, received unanimous support from senators and has been referred to the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for further legislative considerations.

    The bill, which was initially introduced in the ninth National Assembly, was revisited on October 17, 2023, with a specific focus on addressing knowledge gaps in technology and environmental sciences.

    Senator Bamidele emphasized the importance of the bill, stating that it would promote the growth of exceptional technologists and the human resources required to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, the bill aims to improve access to higher education, particularly for qualified individuals who face challenges securing admission to universities within the country.

    Upon approval, the university is expected to establish an ultra-modern institution that fosters technological advancement, research, entrepreneurship, and wealth management, contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable development.

    Various senators, including Deputy President of the Senate Senator Barau Jubrin and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence Senator Ahmed Lawan, expressed their support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-based economies and specialized institutions to drive the nation’s development agenda in the 21st century.

  • Labour & Employment Minister Congratulates President Tinubu Over Supreme Court Victory

    Minister of Labour and Employment Simon Bako Lalong and former Director General of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council has described the validation of President Bola Tinubu’s election victory by the Supreme Court as an affirmation of the overwhelming mandate given to him by Nigerians.
    Lalong said the decision of the apex court is in tandem with the general wishes of Nigerians as expressed freely through the ballot box accross the country during the Presidential Elections where he emerged victorious.
    He said “As former Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, the pronouncement by the Supreme Court is not only welcoming, but also a validation of the wide acceptance of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima which resonated eminently during the campaigns and voting across all segments of the Nigerian society”.
    The Minister while congratulating the President said this victory is not only for the APC but the entire nation and lovers of democracy irrespective of backgrounds.
    He said this decision by the highest court of the land clears the coast for the Tinubu administration to settle down and face the task of delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda to Nigerians.
    Lalong appealed to all Nigerians to join hands with the President in building a strong Nigeria that presents hope to this generation and the ones to come.