Category: Politics

PDP Ward 1 in Ngo Town, Andoni LGA, Rivers State, Suspends Pro-Fubara House Representative Member

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ward 1, Ngo Town, Andoni local government area of Rivers State, has suspended Hon. Awaji-Inomek Abiante, the member representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro federal constituency in the House of Representatives.

Hon. Abiante is known for his loyalty to Rivers State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, alongside three other federal lawmakers.

The suspension, as announced in a statement signed by the ward chairman, Dike Bara, and secretary, Dokubo Jackson, cited anti-party activities as the reason behind the decision.

The statement highlights: “Hon. Awaji-Inomek Abiante is hereby suspended from the party for promoting factions at the ward level and belonging to a group not recognized by the party’s constitution. This action contravenes Sec. 58(l)(j) of the party’s constitution.”

“Furthermore, his involvement in organizing, training, and equipping a group of members for the purpose of employing violence and coercion within the party breaches section 58(l)(k) of the party’s constitution.”

The statement emphasizes the party’s commitment to rooting out individuals acting against its interests, regardless of their status, to ensure the ward’s loyalty to the PDP remains unwavering.

Tensions flared during the first day of Senate plenary in the newly renovated red chamber as Senators engaged in a heated verbal altercation over seating arrangements on Tuesday.

The National Assembly formally reopened both chambers after approximately two years of renovation work, during which lawmakers utilized makeshift chambers in temporary locations.

Upon completion of the renovation project before their 40-day recess, Senators resumed sessions in the remodeled chambers, but the day quickly turned contentious.

Trouble arose when Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, began recognizing Senators who celebrated birthdays during the vacation. Senator Sahabi Alhaji Ya’u (APC, Zamfara North) rose from his seat to voice a complaint to Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), regarding the seating arrangement.

What began as a quiet conversation between Ya’u and Bamidele escalated into a shouting match, drawing reactions from other Senators and devolving into a 30-minute uproar.

Senator Ya’u expressed dissatisfaction with his new seat placement in the far right corner of the chamber, citing his status as a ranking Senator and former Deputy Minority Whip during the 9th National Assembly.

The dispute intensified when Senator Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe Central) joined in, echoing concerns about the seating arrangement for ranking Senators.

In an attempt to restore order, the Senate President called for Bamidele and the aggrieved Senators to approach him. After resolving the immediate conflict, Akpabio proceeded to deliver his welcome address.

Following the address, the Senate Leader called for an emergency closed-door session to address the underlying issues and diffuse tensions among Senators.

Details of the closed-door session are expected to emerge later.

Asue Ighodalo, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, has refuted claims linking him to the impeachment of former deputy governor Philip Shaibu.

In a statement released by his media team on Monday, Ighodalo dismissed Shaibu’s allegations as baseless and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

Reacting to a video where Shaibu accused him of sponsoring his impeachment, Ighodalo clarified that he had no role or involvement in the process leading to Shaibu’s removal from office by the Edo State House of Assembly.

The statement emphasized that Shaibu’s impeachment was a public process driven by allegations of perjury and leaking of government secrets, without any influence from Ighodalo.

Highlighting the need to set the record straight, Ighodalo urged the public to treat Shaibu’s allegations with skepticism and focus on pertinent issues.

The PDP candidate reiterated his commitment to running a governorship campaign based on addressing key issues and avoiding distractions.

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has issued a caution to President Bola Tinubu, alerting him to the intentions of certain critics of his ministers, suggesting that their motives may not be genuine. NAN suggested that the criticism directed at his efficient ministers might be part of a broader scheme aimed at thwarting his reelection bid in 2027.

Salihu Sulaiman, the chairman of NAN, revealed that the plan involves singling out nine high-performing ministers and cabinet officials who are perceived to play a crucial role in securing victory for Tinubu in future elections. He alleged that there is a concerted effort to weaken the relationship between Tinubu and his officials, thereby diminishing his chances of securing a second term in 2023.

The individuals targeted include former governor of Rivers State and current minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Nyesom Wike, minister of internal affairs, Hon Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, minister of Budget and former governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Bagudu, state minister of defence and former governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, minister of arts and culture, Hannatu Musawa, chief of staff to the President, Femi Gbajamiala, director general of Department of State Services (DSS) Yusuf Bicci, and minister of aviation, Festus Keyamo, among others.

NAN asserted that these individuals have been targeted for criticism and disrespect in an apparent bid to undermine their influence and effectiveness in supporting President Tinubu’s reelection bid.

Sulaiman expressed deep concern over the plan to target high-performing ministers and cabinet officials, highlighting their achievements in their respective roles as potential threats to opposition efforts to undermine President Tinubu’s reelection prospects.

NAN emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles, accountability, and the rule of law, urging President Tinubu and his administration to remain vigilant against the schemes of opportunistic politicians and to continue collaborating with these high-performing officials.

President Tinubu was advised to remain vigilant and discerning, avoiding any traps that could jeopardize the success of his administration. NAN stressed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with key players who serve as supportive pillars of his government, thereby ensuring the continuity of his administration’s success and the realization of his vision for a prosperous Nigeria.

Mr. Alaba Abbey, the Returning Officer for Ward 10 in Supare Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, who served in the recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election, has been tragically assassinated.

According to reports, unknown gunmen shot Mr. Abbey, who also served as a ward coordinator for the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot-Soldiers (LACO-SF), on Saturday at his residence.

Confirming the incident, the deceased’s elder brother, Samuel Abbey, revealed that the assassination occurred on Saturday night around 9 pm shortly after Mr. Abbey returned home, right in front of his house.

The Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organization Foot-Soldiers (LACO-SF) has strongly condemned the heinous murder of its member and called on the police authorities to ensure the protection of its members from such attacks by unknown assailants.

In a statement issued by its State Information Director, Mr. Kayode Fasua, the group disclosed that the late Mr. Abbey had been actively involved in campaigning for the election of Governor Aiyedatiwa until his untimely demise.

Reacting to the tragic news, the Director-General of LACO-FS in Akoko Southwest Local Government, Hon. David Ajobiewe, expressed shock over the incident, describing it as a shocking tragedy. He emphasized that Mr. Abbey was never known to be violent and had no history of local or domestic disputes.

“We urge the police authorities to step up investigations into his gruesome murder and bring the perpetrators of this dastardly act to book,” Ajobiewe pleaded.

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, assured that the Command had commenced an investigation to unravel all the details surrounding the tragic event.

Senator representing Plateau South Plateau South Senatorial District Simon Bako Lalong on Saturday 27th April joined his secondary schoolmates as the Nasarawa Old Students Association
organised a reception in honour of immediate past Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Prof. Suleiman Bala Mohammed.

At the reception held in Keffi, Senator Lalong described Prof. Suleiman as an accomplished academic and administrator who did a lot to take Nasarawa State University to greater heights.

He said the transformation witnessed in the University evokes so much pride to his colleagues and NOSA in general.

While wishing him many more successes in his future endeavours, Lalong appreciated the support Prof. Suleiman gave to NOSA while in office.

Emir of Nasarawa and grand patron of NOSA Alh. Ibrahim Usman Jibril thanked the former Vice Chancellor for making Nasarawa State University a hub for learning in Nigeria.

He asked the new Vice Chancellor Prof. Sa’adatu Liman to build on the what Prof. Suleiman has achieved during his tenure at the NSUK.

President of NOSA Ahmed Idris Danladi said the association is very proud of the former Vice Chancellor for his achievements and for his dedication to the progress of GSS Nasarawa and the activities of NOSA.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria Hassan Liman speaking on behalf of NOSA members also acknowledged the dedication of Prof. Suleiman right from his secondary school days which has guided him over the years.

Prof Suleiman in his response thanked the Nasarawa Old Students Association for honouring him and gave special recognition to Senator Lalong who has stood with him over the years and supported him.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Special Adviser (Media) to Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Plateau South Senatorial District.
27th April 2024.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano.

The secretary to the government of the federation Senator Dr. George Akume is a true nationalist who always plays an important role towards the development of this great nation as a bridge builder.

This was disclosed by the national president, APC Initiative For Good Governance, Ambassador Musa Mohammed Tsoken while fielding some questions from journalists at the end of “Nwunyo fishing festivals” held recently at Ibbi local government area.

Ambassador Musa Tsoken who represented the SGF emphasized that with the leaders like Senator George Akume, Nigeria would become an examplary domain especially at present when the democratic dispensation is getting more success under President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Kashim Shettima administration.

“Our dynamic secretary to the government of the federation, Senator Dr. George Akume is trying his best to ensure that Nigeria is developing like other countries, and the government policies are being executed to the last portion in order to ensure that our electorates benefited from Tinubu/Shettima development plans”. He lamented.

Commenting about the just concluded fishing festivals at Nwuyo, Ambassador Musa Mohammed Tsoken expressed his happiness on how the organisers spent time in planning the colourful event that would continue to restore unity and love among the entire people of Taraba state and other sections.

He reassured that APC Initiative For Good Governance, as a support group would continue to works selflessly towards the progress of this country and promotes unity among the party right from wards, local governments, states to the national levels in order to maintain its position in the Nigeria’s democracy.

In the aftermath of the primary elections leading up to the November 16 governorship contest in Ondo State, TOPE FAYEHUN delves into the intricate political dynamics shaping the emergence of candidates within the two major parties.

The political landscape of Ondo State has been ablaze with intrigue in recent weeks, as the state’s political elite engaged in a flurry of activity, setting the stage for a potentially tumultuous primary election. As anticipation builds for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for November 16, this year, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the primary opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a former ruling party in the South West state.

While the primary elections have concluded, the contentious outcomes have ignited internal strife within both parties, complicating the path for their respective candidates.

In the APC camp, the incumbent, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, emerged victorious in the primary election, securing a total of 48,569 votes. His closest rival, Mayowa Akinfolarin, trailed behind with 15,343 votes, while Chief Olusola Oke garnered 14,865 votes, clinching the third position. Despite the declaration of Aiyedatiwa as the winner, the process was marred by incidents of violence and disruptions, particularly in the Ifedore and Ilaje local government areas.

The PDP primary, on the other hand, witnessed its own drama, with former deputy governor, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, emerging as the winner after garnering 264 votes. Ajayi’s victory underscored the internal power struggle within the party, as he overcame stiff competition from other aspirants, including former House of Representatives member, Hon. Kolade Akinjo, who secured 157 votes, and former Afenifere secretary general, Chief Sola Ebiseni, who came in third with 99 votes.

The fallout from these primaries has exacerbated tensions within both parties, as aggrieved aspirants contest the legitimacy of the outcomes and demand redress. Despite calls for unity from party leaders, including the APC national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and Governor Aiyedatiwa himself, dissent continues to simmer among disgruntled factions.

Looking ahead to the November election, the political landscape in Ondo State remains fraught with uncertainty, as unresolved grievances threaten to undermine party cohesion and cohesion. With the specter of pre-election litigations looming large, the road to the governorship contest is paved with obstacles, raising concerns about the potential impact on the electoral process and its outcome.

As the state braces for a hotly contested election, the stakes are high for both the APC and PDP, with the legacy of late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu looming large over the political landscape. Against this backdrop, the stage is set for a showdown between Akeredolu’s former deputies, further complicating an already volatile political landscape.

The Senate panel investigating the N30 trillion Ways and Means loans obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria under the leadership of Godwin Emefiele by the Federal Government has announced its intention to request an extension of the investigation period.

Initially tasked with a six-week ultimatum to probe the loans during its inauguration on March 11, 2024, by Senate President GodsWill Akpabio, the panel has encountered complexities necessitating an extension.

Additionally, the panel was mandated to scrutinize the over-N1 trillion Anchor Borrowers’ Programme of the CBN during the previous administration, emphasizing a comprehensive examination.

Led by Senator Isah Jibrin of the APC representing Kogi East, the panel has already identified approximately 13 financial irregularities allegedly linked to the acquisition of the loans.

Furthermore, the Senate plans to summon key figures including the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and several directors, particularly those associated with Emefiele’s tenure.

Although the committee has obtained pertinent documents and intends to summon government officials involved in the loan process, the Senate’s recess and adjournment of plenary have delayed progress.

Despite the expiration of the initial six-week deadline on April 26, 2024, Senator Jibrin affirmed the panel’s commitment to thoroughness and indicated plans to seek an extension once the Senate resumes from recess.

“The Senate has been on recess for about a month now; we will seek an extension when we resume. We will ensure that a thorough job is done,” stated Jibrin.

The National Assembly is scheduled to reconvene on Tuesday, April 30, following a rescheduling from April 23.

Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate Peter Obi, has called on affluent Nigerians to increase their support for the less privileged, particularly in the provision of water and education.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Obi highlighted that 70 percent of Nigeria’s wealth is controlled by about one percent of the population, emphasizing that if even a fraction of these wealthy individuals directed their resources towards meeting the basic needs of the poor, significant improvements could be made.

He urged governments at all levels to prioritize resource allocation aimed at enhancing the living conditions of the impoverished and lifting them out of poverty.

Obi shared insights from his recent humanitarian visits to various regions, expressing concern over the dire situation faced by many Nigerians, especially in rural areas.

To address the immediate water needs of the poor, Obi announced the completion of ten boreholes in several Northern states, advocating for similar initiatives from wealthy Nigerians to tackle water scarcity.

In the realm of education, Obi underscored the potential he observed among almajiri children in Quranic schools in the North, stressing the importance of providing adequate support to nurture their talents and contribute to national development.

He emphasized the need for a concerted effort to alleviate poverty and enhance education, stating that these measures are crucial for addressing the root causes of insecurity and other societal challenges.

Regarding infrastructure development, Obi asserted that his administration would prioritize fixing existing roads before embarking on new projects, emphasizing the importance of ensuring connectivity across the country.

Responding to criticisms about his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, Obi defended his record, citing significant improvements in education and overall development during his tenure. He argued that his focus was on revitalizing existing infrastructure and enhancing the quality of education rather than constructing new facilities.