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Category: Politics

APC Chairman Criticizes Gov Yusuff for Emirship Distraction, Urges Focus on Governance
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, Abdullahi Abbas, has responded to the Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Hashimu Dungurawa, regarding his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s lack of intervention in the state emirate tussle.
Dungurawa had previously admonished President Tinubu, stating that his silence on the Kano Emirate crisis was detrimental and could jeopardize his 2027 presidential aspirations. He urged Tinubu to take decisive action, including the banishment of the deposed Emir, Ado Bayero, from Kano.
Speaking to the press from his office on Sunday, Dungurawa emphasized that the ongoing Emirate crisis was tarnishing the President’s reputation and necessitated immediate intervention.
In a statement issued on Monday in Abuja, Abbas countered Dungurawa’s claims, asserting that the APC remains unified and popular in Kano, predicting a significant increase in voter support in the next presidential election. He criticized Governor Abba Yusuf and NNPP leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso for their handling of governance issues, predicting their defeat in 2027.
Abbas stated that while other state governors are marking their first year in office with project commissions, Governor Yusuf is using the emirate dispute to distract from his administration’s failures.
“The crisis within the NNPP and its leader, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, is exposing its failure, even as it boasts of winning the 2027 presidency. Kano State APC is now more united and popular, attracting valuable political figures. We are confident of delivering more than triple the votes received in the 2023 presidential election,” Abbas said.
He added, “Governor Yusuf’s poor performance, penchant for causing crises, and anti-people policies will be key factors for voters in the next election. While other governors were commissioning projects, the NNPP in Kano was busy using the contentious emirate law to distract from its failures.”
July 8, 2024
Tinubu Urges Regional Action for Food Security and Forest Management
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna**
President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the urgent need for ambitious regional action to balance food security with sustainable forest management, stating that about 70 percent of deforestation in Africa is due to subsistence and commercial agriculture.
Speaking at the first international conference on Afforestation and Reforestation held from July 2-5, 2024, in Brazzaville, Congo, Tinubu highlighted that nearly 4 million hectares of African forests are being cut down each year, almost double the world’s average rate of deforestation. This information was quoted from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN).
Represented by the Minister of Environment, Mal. Balarabe Abbas, Tinubu outlined several factors contributing to forest loss in the region, including increasing population, indiscriminate land expansion for agriculture, rapid urbanization, social needs, and illegal logging.
“About 70% of deforestation in Africa is a result of subsistence and commercial agriculture. Therefore, urgent ambitious regional action is needed to strike a balance between food security and sustainable forest management,” Tinubu stated.
He acknowledged the significance of holding the conference in Congo, considering Africa’s contribution to global deforestation. The conference aimed to bring together leading experts, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners worldwide to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and foster collaborations to develop and implement innovative and scientific strategies for afforestation and reforestation. These strategies would restore degraded lands, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
“Regional and global cooperation like this is imperative and will foster the development of appropriate regional transformative policies and legal frameworks capable of mitigating the impacts of climate change,” he added.
Tinubu also highlighted Nigeria’s progress in contributing to reversing forest cover loss through sustainable forest management and massive afforestation. He mentioned the recent approval of $8.5 million under the Presidential Initiative on Afforestation for the afforestation and restoration of degraded forests and other critical landscapes across the country. This initiative is in addition to other programs like the Great Green Wall Pan African Program and Agro-Climatic Resilience Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL), resulting in the restoration of over 1.5 million hectares of degraded forests.
“We have recently placed an interim suspension on the export of wood-based products to enable adequate appraisal of the process and ultimately emplacement of a sustainable forest management trade compliance system without jeopardizing progress in implementing the UNSPF, NDC, and other global agreements,” Tinubu stated.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to global, regional, and sub-regional consensus on promoting sustainable forest management, Tinubu expressed optimism about the conference’s catalytic effect in increasing global forest cover for collective benefits.
He congratulated President Denis Sassou Nguesso of Congo for successfully hosting the historic conference and providing an opportunity to address global warming and other associated disasters. Tinubu also acknowledged the African Union and United Nations Forum on Forests for organizing the conference.
“Africa is ranked as the world’s third-largest continent with a global forest area of about 26% cover. The alarming rate at which these forests are being depleted calls for concern,” Tinubu lamented, emphasizing the need for collective efforts from governments, NGOs, private organizations, civil societies, and communities to increase global forest cover.
“I am optimistic about the catalytic effect of this conference as we strive together to increase the global forest cover for our collective benefits. Together, we shall indeed make our planet a safer place for us and future generations to come,” he concluded.
Tinubu’s address underscored the significance of forests, which cover nearly 31% of the world’s land area and are crucial for maintaining ecological balance, preserving biodiversity, and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people. However, deforestation and forest degradation continue to threaten these vital ecosystems, leading to severe consequences for the planet and future generations.
July 6, 2024
Okpebholo is the Next Governor of Edo State – Esan Youths
– Call Asue Ighodalo Stranger
– Say Federal High Court judgment, victory for democracy
– Lament failure, broken hopes
– Praise PDP defectors
Youths in Edo State on Saturday declared that the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, in the September 21 governorship election was a foregone conclusion.
“There is no alternative to Monday Okpebholo in the September 21 governorship election,” they stated, asserting that Okpebholo’s governorship was an idea whose time had come.
“Monday Okpebholo will usher in change and accountability,” they emphasized.
Reading from a prepared text on behalf of Esan youths, community leaders, and women on Saturday in Igueben, the Chairman of Esan Youths Movement, Pastor Jonathan Omozokpia, said Okpebholo’s governorship ambition was practically signed, sealed, and delivered.
“Monday Okpebholo has succeeded in building a network of friends across Nigeria and abroad. He is a darling of the grassroots and will definitely win the September 21 governorship election in Edo State,” Omozokpia stated.
The youths stressed that Okpebholo’s governorship ambition was an answer to the clarion call by well-meaning individuals, including traditional rulers, frontline politicians, and Edo professionals in Nigeria and abroad.
“We want a governor who can launch a rebirth and lead Edo away from backwardness to true greatness,” they said.
They dismissed the governorship ambition of Asue Ighodalo, describing him as a complete disadvantage and stranger in Esanland.
“Monday Okpebholo shares our values,” they affirmed.
The youths applauded the judiciary for declaring invalid the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) primary election held on February 22, 2024, which produced Asue Ighodalo as its governorship candidate. They noted that the Federal High Court Abuja decision was a victory for democracy.
“Many people are tired of incompetent and inept leaders, people who are unable to dream great dreams for Edo State. They are tired of mediocrity and selfishness,” they declared.
Particularly, the youths criticized Governor Godwin Obaseki for disappointing the good people of Edo State.
“We need to break from the past, save Edo State from ruins. There has been too much noise but far less action in Edo State. There is a lot of retrogression in several areas,” they lamented.
They also praised PDP members who recently announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
July 6, 2024
Oshiomhole Exposes Saboteurs of Dangote Refinery Operations
By Milcah Tanimu
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State, has revealed that those attempting to sabotage the Dangote Refinery are based in Abuja. The refinery has faced difficulties in securing crude oil domestically, leading to the necessity of importing from countries like the United States.
Speaking at the maiden edition of Prof Emeka Umerah’s public lecture titled ‘Nigeria Yesterday, Today and a Prosperous Future’ in Abuja, Oshiomhole criticized those complaining about fuel price hikes while importing low-quality diesel into Nigeria. He pointed out that these individuals, who prioritize their interests over the country’s welfare, reside in Abuja and are not held accountable by Nigerian voters.
“It is the result of his [Dangote’s] work that the refinery in Lagos can meet Nigeria’s diesel demand. Yet, some Nigerians lamenting the fuel hike are importing low-quality diesel banned in Europe, polluting our environment, damaging our engines, and depleting our foreign exchange reserves. Meanwhile, Dangote Refinery in Lagos can produce diesel and has even announced price reductions,” Oshiomhole stated.
He emphasized that these saboteurs, living in Abuja, remain unknown to the electorate and unexamined by the public. “You (Nigerians) blame the president, yet he may be unaware of these activities, as others are responsible. When questioned, they point to the PIB Act,” Oshiomhole added.
July 5, 2024
UK Nigerian Leader Dismisses Peter Obi’s Influence on UK Voters, Citing Different Political Landscape
By Milcah Tanimu
Benjamin Kuti, a prominent leader within the Nigerian community in the UK, has downplayed the potential impact of Peter Obi’s recent political statements on the forthcoming UK elections. In a recent interview, Kuti emphasized that the UK political landscape differs significantly from Nigeria’s, specifically highlighting the absence of “stomach infrastructure” politics in the UK, where policy and substantial issues take precedence.
During an interview with SaharaReporters on Wednesday, Kuti remarked that while Obi’s opinions are notable, they do not necessarily reflect the sentiments or decisions of the broader Nigerian community in the UK.
The UK is witnessing high anticipation as 30 candidates of Nigerian descent vie for parliamentary seats. Analysts suggest this election could mark a significant shift, with the Labour Party presenting a formidable challenge to the Conservative Party’s long-standing 14-year tenure. The rise of Reform UK, a right-wing populist party, further intensifies the election dynamics, with voters keenly observing the evolving political scene.
Among the 650 seats in Parliament, 30 are being contested by Nigerian candidates as British voters gear up for the 2024 general election. In this context, Peter Obi, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has urged Nigerians in the UK to support the Labour Party.
Kuti responded by stating that Obi, while entitled to his opinion as a private citizen, holds limited influence compared to the broader electorate in the UK and beyond.
“Peter Obi has the right to express himself because he lived in the UK and understands the system. He is not an elected official, so he can voice his opinion like anyone else,” Kuti said.
Kuti further clarified that Obi’s opinion is unlikely to influence the choice of the UK Prime Minister or sway the Nigerian community in the UK.
“The UK doesn’t practice ‘stomach infrastructure’ politics like Nigeria. No one is giving N2,000 to vote. So, Obi’s urging has no effect on the Nigerian community,” Kuti explained.
He urged Nigerians in the UK to participate in the voting process, stressing the significant impact of the elected prime minister’s policies on everyone.
“There are immigration policies in the UK that don’t favor migrants. Nigerians should vote or they will have themselves to blame,” Kuti stated.
Kuti also expressed confidence in the potential success of Nigerian candidates in securing parliamentary seats, noting the increasing political engagement of Nigerians in the UK.
July 4, 2024
I Turned Down N250m Bribe for Third-Term Agenda – Ex-Senate President Wabara
Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara has reaffirmed his claim that he refused a N250 million bribe to support the controversial third-term agenda during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
In an excerpt from the YouTube interview series “Untold Stories with Adesuwa,” released on Monday, Wabara stood by his previous statements, saying, “That’s very correct” when asked about the bribe.
Wabara elaborated on the political environment at the time, stating, “Then when they were saying they were distributing N50 million per Senator, I didn’t believe it.”
He also clarified the circumstances surrounding his departure from office. “First of all, I was not removed by Obasanjo, I resigned,” Wabara asserted. When the interviewer suggested there might have been pressure for his resignation, Wabara replied, “No, there was even no pressure.”
Emphasizing the importance of rejecting the third-term agenda, Wabara said, “Without people like us, there wouldn’t be democracy now. If we had supported the third term, we would have had dictatorship and tyranny. People like Buhari wouldn’t have emerged. Even the present Tinubu would not have emerged because Obasanjo would have still been there.”
Wabara also discussed the broader implications of their actions and the continued struggles faced by the Igbo people. “We have not been forgiven for what we did not cause, the Biafra War. It wasn’t our fault, but the propaganda is that the Igbos cannot be trusted,” he said.
The full interview has yet to be released, but Wabara’s comments highlight the enduring impact of political decisions and the ongoing challenges in Nigerian politics.
July 2, 2024
Rsiec Sets October 5 For Rivers Local Government Poll
By milcah tanimu
The rivers state independent electoral commission (rsiec) has officially announced that local government elections in the state will be held on october 5. This declaration came during a meeting with political party leaders held at rsiec’s headquarters in port harcourt on monday.
During the meeting, rsiec also unveiled its timetable and guidelines for the forthcoming polls. This decision follows governor siminalayi fubara’s recent appointment of a caretaker committee to oversee the local governments after the tenure of the previous 23 chairmen expired on june 17.
The outgoing chairmen, reportedly loyal to the former governor and current minister of the federal capital territory (fct), nyesom wike, had contested their removal, citing law no 2 enacted by the martins amaewhule-led house of assembly, which they claimed extended their tenure by six months. This has led to legal disputes, with the rivers division of the federal high court yet to deliver a final judgment on the matter.
Chairman and chief electoral commissioner of rsiec, adolphus enebeli, issued a notice on june 19 scheduling the stakeholders’ meeting for july 1, 2024, to finalize arrangements for the elections amidst these ongoing legal challenges.
July 1, 2024
Timi Frank Criticizes Akpabio, Warns Against Disrespecting National Assembly
Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has issued a stern warning to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, cautioning him against provoking a Kenyan-style uprising in Nigeria. Frank’s remarks came in response to Akpabio’s statement that the parliament would readily approve a request for a new presidential aircraft if the need arises.
In a statement issued on Monday, Frank described Akpabio’s comments as highly condescending and degrading. He emphasized that one of the parliament’s cardinal roles is to serve as a check and balance on other arms of government. According to Frank, Akpabio has deviated from this role by encouraging the executive on potential expenditures regardless of the economic challenges faced by taxpayers.
“Akpabio may choose to align himself with President Bola Tinubu, but he must not reduce the National Assembly to a rubber stamp for the executive,” Frank asserted. He criticized Akpabio’s approach, stating, “His audacity in overturning legislative procedures and his frequent disrespectful remarks undermine our democracy and insult Nigerians.”
Frank stressed that while Akpabio could be an ardent supporter of President Tinubu, he must refrain from pre-approving executive requests and justifying such actions. He urged Akpabio to stick to his constitutional duties, ensuring thorough scrutiny of financial bills to prevent wasteful spending. Frank also highlighted that the safety and airworthiness of an aircraft depend on regular maintenance rather than its age.
Raising concerns about the substantial budget allocations for the Presidential Fleet, Frank questioned, “What happened to the approximately N214 billion allocated for maintenance of the Presidential Fleet from 1999 to date?”
Frank concluded by referencing recent political uprisings in Senegal and Kenya, warning Akpabio to be cautious. He pointed to the election of a youthful opposition leader in Senegal and the ongoing protests in Kenya, where youths invaded the parliament to oppose an anti-people Finance Bill, resulting in violence and calls for President William Ruto’s resignation.
July 1, 2024
Nigerians Remain Our Priority, Say House of Representatives
The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, emphasizes its unwavering commitment to the Nigerian people. According to Deputy Spokesman Hon. Philip Agbese, the House prioritizes the masses, guiding every decision and action taken by the legislative body.
Speaking at the Pan-African Parliament’s third ordinary session in Johannesburg, South Africa, Agbese praised Speaker Abbas’ leadership model and recommended it to the rest of Africa. “Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas believes that the parliament is the voice of the common man to the executive, and it must be taken seriously,” Agbese said.
He highlighted the openness and transparency promoted under Abbas’ leadership, stating that the 10th House has made significant strides in addressing the needs of the masses. “From tackling pressing issues like poverty and inequality to ensuring the voices of marginalized communities are heard, the parliament has shown its commitment to the people,” Agbese noted.
Speaker Abbas has implemented an open-door policy, encouraging citizens to engage with their representatives and participate in the legislative process. “Our doors are always open to the people. We encourage citizens to come forward with their concerns, and we work tirelessly to address them,” Agbese added.
The Green Chamber has established various committees and initiatives to promote accountability and transparency in governance. These include the Public Accounts Committee, which ensures the judicious use of public funds, and the Committee on Public Petitions, which allows citizens to report cases of corruption and maladministration. Additionally, the House has passed several bills aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
Agbese praised Speaker Abbas’ leadership, stating, “He has shown a remarkable commitment to the people, and his dedication to our collective progress is unwavering.” He emphasized that significant progress has been made in addressing citizens’ needs and that the House will continue to work tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are met.
As the Nigerian House of Representatives continues to prioritize the masses, it serves as a model for other African countries to follow.
July 1, 2024
MDB Boss Urges Roadside Traders to Desist from Violating Executive Order 003
*Says Over 3,000 Shops at Rukuba Road Market Unoccupied*
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
The Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) has appealed to street traders violating Executive Order 003 of the Plateau State government to vacate the roadsides or face sanctions.
General Manager of JMDB, Arch Hart Bankat, made this known on Sunday after assessing the Satellite Market at Rukuba Road in Jos North Local Government Area.
According to Bankat, “The state government has made alternative provisions for traders.”
“Look at the Satellite Market situated at Rukuba Road; there are over 3,000 shops yet to be occupied by traders,” he said. “This market has a fire service, a police outpost, and a bank.”
The Plateau State government has made alternative arrangements for street traders, reopening the old market in Terminus and advising those in Gada Biu to relocate to the satellite market. Similarly, traders in Farin Gada were urged to move back inside the market, which is large enough to accommodate them.
“We have other satellite markets scattered around that people abandon in favor of street trading,” Bankat said. “The state government is determined to bring Plateau back to its state of pride.”
Bankat, accompanied by the Director General of the Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), Mr. Samuel Dapiya, emphasized the government’s commitment to finding a lasting solution to the menace of street trading and illegal dumping of refuse.
He stressed the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to curb these issues, noting that the exercise was not aimed at witch-hunting anyone.
July 1, 2024