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Tag: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

  • PDP Chieftains Dismiss Wike’s Threats, Assert Party’s Resilience

    PDP Chieftains Dismiss Wike’s Threats, Assert Party’s Resilience

    By  Milcah   Tanimu

    Prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have firmly rebutted former Rivers State Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who recently threatened the party. Speaking at the PDP secretariat in Port Harcourt, Wike’s remarks were met with a robust defense from within the party.

    Ibrahim Abdullahi, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, dismissed Wike’s comments as mere personal opinions that do not pose a threat to the PDP. “The PDP has weathered numerous challenges over the past 25 years, and no single individual can dismantle this party,” Abdullahi stated. “Our party has endured greater threats and will continue to do so.”

    Osun PDP’s Director of Media and Publicity, Oladele Olabamiji, labeled Wike’s statements as reckless and irresponsible. He criticized Wike for attacking PDP governors who are supporting one of their own, asserting that such threats are out of place. “Wike’s comments are inappropriate and unfounded. Governor Fubara is a legitimate PDP governor, and his support from fellow governors should not be a point of contention,” Olabamiji said. He urged PDP governors to stand united and protect their own, stressing that Wike’s remarks are misplaced and unnecessary.

    Additionally, Sydney Gbara, the Rivers State Commissioner for Environment and former PDP Publicity Secretary, called for an investigation into Wike’s comments. Gbara, who described Wike’s statements as alarming for a former governor, warned that threats against 13 states could lead to nationwide unrest. “As an elder statesman, such incendiary remarks are unacceptable. Threatening to incite crisis in 13 states is tantamount to planning chaos across the entire country,” Gbara said.

    The party chieftains’ responses underscore the PDP’s commitment to unity and resilience in the face of internal and external challenges.

  • Kalu Defends Atiku Abubakar Against Criticisms Over PDP’s 2023 Defeat

    Kalu Defends Atiku Abubakar Against Criticisms Over PDP’s 2023 Defeat

    By Milcah   Tanimu

    Emeka Kalu, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former gubernatorial candidate from Abia State, has rebutted claims that Atiku Abubakar’s candidacy was the cause of the PDP’s defeat in the 2023 presidential election.

    Atiku, who contested in the 2023 general election as the PDP candidate, lost to President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Recent criticisms from some party members, including former National Publicity Secretary Kola Ologbodiyan and Chief Olabode George, have placed the blame on Atiku for the party’s electoral setbacks.

    In a statement released in Lagos, Kalu denounced these criticisms, describing them as politically motivated attacks. He argued that Atiku’s contributions to the nation and his efforts to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges should not be overshadowed by such baseless allegations.

    “Atiku Abubakar has consistently demonstrated leadership and a commitment to national transformation. It is unfair to malign a distinguished leader whose vision aims to rectify the issues created by the APC’s governance,” Kalu stated.

    He also questioned how Atiku’s candidacy could have impeded the PDP’s chances of victory, considering the electoral irregularities that marred the election. Kalu accused the critics of engaging in a smear campaign intended to tarnish Atiku’s reputation and undermine his political standing.

    Kalu emphasized that Atiku’s leadership is crucial for addressing Nigeria’s economic and infrastructural challenges. He warned that continued defamation of Atiku’s character would lead to legal action for defamation and misrepresentation.

    “Those who have chosen to disparage Atiku for their own political gain must retract their statements, or face legal consequences,” Kalu concluded.

  • Appeal Court Upholds Ighodalo’s Nomination as PDP Gubernatorial Candidate in Edo

    Appeal Court Upholds Ighodalo’s Nomination as PDP Gubernatorial Candidate in Edo

    By Milcah Tanimu

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja has confirmed Dr. Asue Ighodalo’s position as the Governorship Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.

    In a unanimous ruling delivered by Justice Musali JCA in case CA/ABJ/CV/764/2024, the court decided that the delegates challenging the PDP primaries did not have the legal standing to do so. As a result, the trial court lacked jurisdiction to annul the primaries.

    The appellate court emphasized that according to Section 84(14) of the Electoral Act, only aspirants have the right to contest a primary election. Ad hoc delegates, the court noted, are not considered aspirants and, therefore, do not have the standing to file a lawsuit against the primary election process.

    The court concluded, “They are delegates and not aspirants. Delegates do not have any locus to challenge the process of the primary election.”

    With this ruling, the court has affirmed the validity of the PDP primaries held on February 22, which designated Ighodalo as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the September 21st election in Edo State.

  • Bandits Kill 6 in Fresh Attack on Kaduna Community

    Bandits Kill 6 in Fresh Attack on Kaduna Community

     

    Bandits have killed six people in an attack on Ewehko, also known as Unguwar Paul, a village in the Maro Ward of Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State.

    The assault took place around 2:14 PM on Monday, resulting in the deaths of five men and one woman. According to an unofficial source within the local council, the attackers also looted the village, setting fire to valuables, including farm produce and motorcycles, before retreating into the forest.

    The source, who chose to remain anonymous due to fear of reprisal, expressed frustration over the recurring attacks in the area. “Another tragic incident has occurred in our community today. In broad daylight, terrorists launched a deadly assault on Ewehko,” the source said. “They set our belongings on fire. Six bodies have been discovered, and search efforts continue for others who may be missing in the surrounding bushes.”

    Communities under Maro Ward, including Junction Maro, Ungwan Rogo, and Ewehko, have endured frequent and bloody attacks. “How can these criminals come as they like to kill, maim, kidnap our people, and destroy their valuables without any one of them being arrested? To us, both President Bola Tinubu, Governor Uba Sani, and all the heads of the security agencies have abandoned us. If not, they should summon the courage and stop this carnage now before it is too late,” the source warned.

    This latest attack adds to a series of violent incidents in the area. Just last month, Ibrahim Gajere, the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Maro Ward and former Political Adviser to the Executive Chairman of Kajuru Local Government, Ishaya Zangson Okan, was killed in Maro.

    Additionally, twelve people abducted from Iri village, near Maro, in 2023 remain missing. Their names are Ishaku Ayuba, Dogara Ayuba, Samaniya Donald, Azurfa Adauji, Monday Adauji, Agnes John, Abani John, Eunice Monday, Patience Adauji, Zakariya Adauji, Dorothy Adauji, and Donald Livinus. As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not issued a statement on the matter.

  • Breaking News: SDP’s Umar Ardo Withdraws Supreme Court Appeal Against Fintiri’s Re-Election

    Breaking News: SDP’s Umar Ardo Withdraws Supreme Court Appeal Against Fintiri’s Re-Election

    By Jethro Peter

    Umar Ardo, the gubernatorial candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Adamawa State, has officially withdrawn his appeal against the re-election of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri at the Supreme Court.

    Governor Fintiri, who ran under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), secured victory in the 2023 governorship election as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously dismissed Ardo’s petition in November, challenging Fintiri’s electoral triumph. Justice Ugochukwu Ogakwu, delivering the ruling, affirmed the decision of the Tribunal led by Justice Theodora Uloho, which had earlier rejected Ardo’s petition as incompetent and improperly filed.

    The appellate court ruled that the allegations of corrupt practices and non-compliance with the Electoral Act against INEC were not substantiated by the appellants, and therefore, there was no basis to grant the appeal.

    Ardo and the SDP had initially filed a petition at the State Governorship Election Tribunal, seeking the annulment of Fintiri’s re-election, citing substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act, corrupt practices, threats, and violence during the electoral process.

    Following the dismissal of his petition at the appellate court, Ardo took the case to the Supreme Court. However, in a recent development, he has chosen to withdraw the appeal against Governor Fintiri, bringing an end to the legal challenge.

  • Kogi Governorship Election: I’ve Overcome Four Assassination Attempts

    Kogi Governorship Election: I’ve Overcome Four Assassination Attempts

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the upcoming Kogi State gubernatorial election, disclosed that he has narrowly escaped four assassination attempts within the state. Melaye opened up about these incidents during an interview with Arise Television.

    In his account, he emphasized that Kogi has been marked by a climate of tension ever since the All Progressives Congress (APC) came into power seven years ago. He stated, “I have survived four assassination attempts; I have had 12 court cases of FG vs. Dino Melaye, and I have been attacked severally. It is not new, as it is in the DNA of the APC to be violent.”

    Melaye described Kogi State as being in dire need of rapid redevelopment, likening it to an “evil forest” that requires immediate attention and a savior.

    He hopes to be a catalyst for change and to alleviate the hardships experienced by the people living in the state. He also noted that the current state of disunity and polarization in Kogi is unprecedented in its history, largely attributed to the actions of the APC since they came to power.

    As part of the PDP’s agenda, Melaye aims to reunite the state and has adopted the slogan “One Kogi, One Destiny” to emphasize the importance of unity in his campaign.

  • Atiku Abubakar Urges Nigerians to Remain Resilient on Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day

    Atiku Abubakar Urges Nigerians to Remain Resilient on Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day

    By Daniel Edu

    Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has sent a message to Nigerians on the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day anniversary. In his message, he encourages Nigerians not to lose hope in their efforts to steer the country away from uncertainty and towards a place of collective well-being.

    Atiku laments the fact that since Nigeria gained independence, it has struggled to realize the dreams of its founding fathers. Despite the promise of abundant prosperity and social justice upon achieving political independence, the country finds itself at a crossroads in many aspects of national life as it celebrates its 63rd anniversary.

    He acknowledges Nigeria’s achievements in various fields, including sports, academia, and music, and highlights the talent and determination of young Nigerians who continue to believe in the country’s potential.

    Atiku emphasizes that the energy and skills of Nigeria’s youth are a valuable asset that powers the global economy. He sees the success of the nation’s youth as a source of inspiration and hope for a better future.

    The former vice president challenges the political leadership in Nigeria to be worthy of the nation’s pride and not a source of embarrassment. He believes that Nigeria’s democracy has made progress due to the conviction that, when properly nurtured, democracy can bring out the best in the people.

    While acknowledging the challenges in the economy, security, and other vital aspects of society, Atiku calls on Nigerians to have faith and work together to lead the country out of uncertainty and towards a safer and more prosperous future.

    In conclusion, Atiku’s message serves as a call to action, urging Nigerians to remain resilient and committed to building a better Nigeria despite the current challenges.

  • Atiku’s Camp Accuses Court of Appeal of Deliberately Hindering Supreme Court Appeal

    Atiku’s Camp Accuses Court of Appeal of Deliberately Hindering Supreme Court Appeal

    By Daniel Edu

    The camp of Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, has leveled allegations against the Court of Appeal, claiming that the court is intentionally obstructing their efforts to approach the Supreme Court for a review.

    Phrank Shaibu, the Special Assistant to Atiku Abubakar on Public Communications, issued a statement on Friday, asserting that the Court of Appeal has not provided their legal team with certified true copies of the judgment, despite the fact that three days have passed since the verdict was delivered. This delay, they argue, hampers their ability to file an appeal with the Supreme Court within the allotted 14-day window.

    Shaibu accused the Court of Appeal of intentionally wasting time that their lawyers need to thoroughly examine the judgment before proceeding to the Supreme Court. This allegation comes in the wake of the dismissal of all petitions against President Bola Tinubu’s victory by the tribunal on September 6, 2023. Atiku and the PDP have rejected this outcome and expressed their intent to appeal the tribunal’s verdict to the Supreme Court.

    According to Shaibu, “By not making available to Atiku Abubakar, Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, the certified true copies of the judgment of Wednesday for its filings at the Supreme Court, the Presidential Election Petition Court, is undermining Atiku’s and Nigerians’ quest for justice.”

     

    He reminded the Presidential Election Petition Court that it had emphasized the importance of adhering to the court’s set time schedule during the delivery of its judgment and pointed out that three valuable days out of the 14-day limit for filing processes at the highest court have been lost due to the Court of Appeal’s actions.

     

    Shaibu also questioned why the tribunal rushed to release a judgment that was still undergoing revisions instead of waiting to complete its work properly. He criticized this as undemocratic and emphasized that the lost time would never be recovered.

     

    In conclusion, the statement from Atiku’s camp suggests that the delay in receiving certified copies of the judgment from the Court of Appeal is seen as an attempt to hinder their legal pursuit of justice through the Supreme Court.

  • Wike Challenges PDP, Asserts “No One Can Expel Me”

    Wike Challenges PDP, Asserts “No One Can Expel Me”

    By Daniel Edu

    Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Minister, has issued a challenge to his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), daring them to attempt to expel him.

    Addressing the prospect of being ousted from the PDP due to alleged anti-party activities, Wike confidently confronted those entertaining the idea, stating, “No one has the power to expel me.”

    Wike made these remarks during an appearance on the “Politics Today” program on Channels Television, held on Wednesday evening.

    The former governor of Rivers State emphasized that he has not encountered any PDP leader with the authority to remove him from the party.

    “Only the individual who can suspend me is one who cannot deliver a governor, three senators, and Assembly members. I have yet to identify such a person. No one will take that action,” Wike asserted.

    He questioned, “Who possesses the authority to discipline me? If anyone should be advocating for discipline, it should be me, as these individuals have violated the party’s constitution,” the minister added.

    Continuing, he declared, “When the party stipulates rotation and you violate the party’s constitution, who will dare claim they can suspend me? Who could that be?”

    Wike also clarified that he is aligned with President Bola Tinubu and not with the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighting that he feels no need to apologize to anyone.

    “I am not aligned with the APC. I am aligned with Tinubu, who trusts me to contribute to the success of the Renewed Hope,” he remarked, further stating, “I owe no one an apology. I was a member of the PDP, and I supported Ahmed Bola Tinubu in his bid to become the President of Nigeria.”

    Regarding infrastructure development, the FCT minister disclosed that the Abuja Metro Line is anticipated to be operational within the coming eight months. He pledged to uphold the FCT masterplan, regardless of whose interests might be affected, asserting that the affluent residents are often the ones violating regulations.

    “In the next eight months, the Abuja metro line will be operational,” the minister announced, and added, “In our country today, who are the primary violators of regulations? Are there any underprivileged individuals disrupting the FCT masterplan? Are the residents of Asokoro, Maitama, or Garki living in poverty? Let’s consider the facts.”

  • “Southern Kaduna Ministerial Nomination Could Alter Political Landscape, Coalition Urges Tinubu”

    “Southern Kaduna Ministerial Nomination Could Alter Political Landscape, Coalition Urges Tinubu”

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    A coalition comprising various Southern Kaduna Groups has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider appointing a minister from their region to challenge the prevailing dominance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Emphasizing their stance, the youth group highlighted the Senate’s rejection of the former Governor of the State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai, and his subsequent withdrawal from consideration. They argued that his replacement should be selected from Kaduna South to restore political equilibrium.

    Convening at a press conference in Abuja, Engr Ambi Geoffrey, the leader of the coalition, asserted that nominating an individual from Southern Kaduna would align with the best interests of Tinubu’s administration.

    “We align ourselves with other voices within the state in advocating for the nomination of Dr. Abdulmalik Durunguwa as a Minister representing Kaduna State. This choice is based on his exceptional track record of service in both public and private spheres, coupled with his remarkable commitment to humanitarian work, particularly in the fields of peace-building and community development.”

    Geoffrey continued to elaborate on Dr. Durunguwa’s contributions, mentioning his roles as the inaugural Chief Executive of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Adviser to the Governor of Kaduna State, and his involvement in the Tinubu Campaign Council 2023 as the member responsible for contact and mobilization in the northwest. Presently, Dr. Durunguwa holds the position of National Commissioner with the National Population Commission. These roles have enabled him to effect positive change, foster unity, and fulfill his mandates impartially.

    “Should Mr. President consider his appointment, it would significantly address the widening divides of religion and ethnicity that led to the Senate’s rejection of el-Rufai.”

    The coalition emphasized Dr. Durunguwa’s pivotal role in sustaining and expanding the influence of the APC in Southern Kaduna, suggesting that his appointment could be the catalyst for the APC’s ascendancy and the eventual defeat of the PDP in the region.

    “We are confident that Dr. Durunguwa’s inclusion in Tinubu’s administration would greatly contribute to the administration’s vision of renewed hope.”

    The coalition also called on Governor Sen. Uba Sani, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajuddeen Abbas, and other relevant stakeholders to support Dr. Durunguwa’s nomination, emphasizing the need for equity and justice for the southern senatorial zone of the state.

    “Considering the presence of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Executive Governor, and the Speaker of the House of Assembly from Zones 1 and 2 respectively, selecting the Minister from Zone 3 is not only just but also crucial for the wellbeing of the people of the zone, particularly those affiliated with the APC,” the coalition concluded.