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…Says Ategbero Led BoT Selectively Blind 

The Interim Management Committee (IMC) National Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Hon. Abubakar U. Abdullahi has reacted to the newspaper in publication over claims what he termed erroneous claim that the Interim Management Committee is unknown.

According to Hon. Abubakar, the Interim Management Committee exist and has continued to oversee the affairs of the association pending the election of substantive officers.

In a letter written to Daily Trust Editor to clear the air over  the erroneous publication, ALGON body said ,…” our current National Chairman of the IMC, is Hon. Abdullahi U. Abubakar, chairman representing Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory took over from Hon. Abdullahi S. Maje, a former chairman of Suleja local government area in Niger State.

“Let me reiterate that the Interim Management Committee was set up by the General Assembly in 2019 in furtherance to conducting elections of substantive leadership into the association, this feat which Alabi and Ategbero led BOT has continued to challenge in the judiciary space. Please note that the matter between the IMC and Alabi led faction is before a court of competent jurisdiction, brings me to wonder the claim made in the publication by Ategbero refuting any knowledge of the IMC.”

…Read full text of Letter:

The Editor News 

Daily Trust Newspapers 

THE IMC EXISTS, ALABI FALSELY PARADING AS ALGON PRESIDENT; ATEGBERO LED BOT SELECTIVELY BLIND

I write on behalf of the Interim Management Committee of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON to react to a recent newspaper publication signed by the Hon. Ategbero led Board of Trustees on behalf of the Hon. Kolade Alabi led faction of the association.

It is well within the news and the full glare of the public, the constant crisis besieging the association as a result of battle for supremacy for the past few years, this rejoinder is the IMC’s mode of clarification on the allegation made by the BOT, stating that the Interim Management Committee is unknown.

First let me reiterate that the Interim Management Committee exist and has continued to oversee the affairs of the association pending the election of substantive officers, our current National Chairman of the IMC, is Hon. Abdullahi U. Abubakar, chairman representing Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory took over from Hon. Abdullahi S. Maje, a former chairman of Suleja local government area in Niger State. 

It is imperative to note that our activities overtime, has been clear for all to see especially as it bothers on eradicating the usurpers, lawbreakers who hijacked the leadership of our association and held it hostage for over 5 years.

Alabi has continued in flagrant violation of subsisting court order restraining him and his cronies from parading as leadership of ALGON, carryout activities in that same vein through the backing of Hon. Odunayo Ategbero led BOT. the former is not a member of any of the 774 constitutionally recognized local government areas, and according to the constitution, a person who is just a local council development area chairman, cannot be president of the association.

 Infact these persons, deceitfully gained the position they currently occupy.

We have overtime, casted a vote of no confidence on the Hon. Ategbero led board of trustees, we are not surprised that they have allowed themselves to be puppet in the hands of Alabi and co.

 Ategbero led BOT, has continued to thread the path of sabotaging the IMC simply for their selfish interest of enriching the pockets. Their actions show total disregard for the constitutions that binds the association, their nonchalance in creating a solution that would end the crisis, has shown that they are core beneficiaries of it. They have proven to being BOT of propaganda, biasness and greed against the IMC.

The Interim Management Committee is saddled with the sole responsibility of savaging and restoring the association to its glory, we do not want to be seen bantering words in the media spaces, with humans who do not have anything to loose. 

Let me reiterate that the Interim Management Committee was set up by the General Assembly in 2019 in furtherance to conducting elections of substantive leadership into the association, this feat which Alabi and Ategbero led BOT has continued to challenge in the judiciary space. Please note that the matter between the IMC and Alabi led faction is before a court of competent jurisdiction, brings me to wonder the claim made in the publication by Ategbero refuting any knowledge of the IMC.

It is also in the news, anti-graft agencies of the criminal offences carried out by Hon. Kolade Alabi, one is the 5.2 billion naira funds belonging to the 774 LGAs purportedly diverted by the former, Mrs Binta and perhaps the Ategbero led BOT who by their actions, have shown that they may be aware of the process. As a committee, we have ensured that the public are aware of the issues surrounding the association, the trustees of any association, holds the authority and responsibility to ensure the fulfilment of an association’s mandate, rather than that, the BOT has drifted and sabotage the associations from carrying out and achieving the mandate.

Finally, let me reiterate that against unsubstantial letter written and signed by the Ategbero led faction, the Interim Management Committee exists and was never ever nullified or dissolved, we shall in due time inaugurate an electoral committee to conduct elections for credible leadership for the association as instructed by the General Assembly (Please note that we shall be transparent and all activities will be captured by the media), Alabi led faction and the BOT is bent on misrepresenting court judgement to massage their ego and divert public attention from their criminal activities in the association and lastly, the IMC, is very open to the media for further questioning or inquiry.

Thank You.

Signed: Hon. Mohammed I. Abubakar

The Secretary General, IMC

By Dramani Usman

The North Eastern Youths Advocacy for Peace and Development (NEYAPAD) has asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard in totality the open letter issued by one Mr. Frank Tietie and his group calling for the dissolution of the newly constituted board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

The Frontline Youths organization in a statement issued by its leadership in Gombe noted that ordinarily, it won’t have joined issues with Tietie, who is alleged to be on assignment on behalf of some desperate politicians from the North East to frustrate the confirmation of the Board, saying their response is propelled by the desire not to allow him to assault the sensibilities of right thinking Nigerians.

The group said the purported issues raised by Mr. Frank Tietie, are not only shallow and otiose but do not hold water, as such it does not deserve the attention of Mr. President as he has other urgent matters of National Importance to attend to, further saying Frank Tietie who masquerades as a Human rights activist and lawyer operating under the imprint of some phony non-governmental organizations notorious for grant hunting.

The youth group wondered what metric of evaluation Tietie employed in measuring the qualifications of those who are to be appointed to man the board of the very strategic Intervention Agency that warrants him calling those appointed unqualified considering the speed and focus with which the new board members have hit the ground running since their assumption of office last month, albeit in an acting capacity.

The group further averred that there is no crisis of confidence in the commission as there is currently an excellent rapport existing between the Staff and the management, this is so due to the quality of individuals appointed to lead the interventionists agency, adding that there is nothing illegal in their appointments in acting capacity pending the confirmation of the Senate, saying it is not a practice alien to Nigerians.

On achieving the Mandate of the commission, the group noted that the people of the crisis-infested zone are happy with the various humanitarian and other interventions currently ongoing as they are aimed at alleviating the sufferings of the people.

The group wondered why Mr. Frank Tietie who hails from the Niger Delta region is not concerned about the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and is not offering his unsolicited advisory there but is more concerned about the North East if not for briefcase advocacy.

The group further urged briefcase activists who are not from the zone to stay off the activities and issues surrounding the Board and management of the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) saying they are hirelings carrying out the biddings of their paymasters, further expressing optimism that the newly appointed leader will be confirmed by the Senate to continue in earnest the strides in development currently going in the North East zone.

The youths group finally urges the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to discard the latest attempt to derail and bring confusion into the interventionists agency but to also be wary of the likes of Tietie who did all they could to see that the renewed hope administration never came to be but failed monumentally, further warning that the group will activate all resources at its disposal to fight constructively those who want to frustrate the confirmation of the board.

The much anticipated Global ministers classrooom with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome holds today and tomorrow. This Programmme will equip millions of ministers and Christian Leaders across the nations of the world.

According to Mr. Olajide Babasola, Media Manager of the International School of Ministry arm of Loveworld Incorporated, organizers of the historic event, “it is going to be an awesome experience at the Global Ministers Classroom with Pastor Chris and to participate actively, invitees are encouraged to follow the instructions on this link http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org/v/ISMGlobalMinistersCell”.

Speaking Further , Mr. Babasola listed some Effective Guidelines in Preparation for the Global Ministers Classroom with Pastor Chris Stating that, “You wouldn’t want to miss out on any part of the program, reason we painstakingly drafted this guide to guide you in the course of the program.”

The Global Ministers Classroom is a 24hour event, and you can can participate while at home via http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org

Finally, you are to inform them that they are expected to converge the following day, The grande finale will be on Saturday 2:00pm, GMT+1 with our man of God, Pastor Chris and Pastor Benny.

God bless you richly and we wish you a resounding and victorious GMC.

The Northwest Progressives Forum( NPF) has lampooned ex-Presidential aide Mr. Obono-Obla, for what it described as “reckless outburst and attention-seeking rant” against Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari, a frontline APC contender for the slot of Senate President.

In a media statement signed by the group’s Director of Public Relations, Adamu Isa on Saturday, the group wondered why the ex-presidential aide “who has case of fraud with the ICPC has the guts to call Yari names and even object the APC Senate President’s legitimate struggle for the number-three seat”.

The group, in the statement, recalled that “the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) in late January 2021 arraigned Mr. Obono-Obla, and two others for fraud and certificate forgery.”

 The Statement stressed that Obono-Obla, as a former Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution and ex-Chairman of the disbanded Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP), “was arraigned by the ICPC and the matter is not yet over”.

The NPF also reacted to the stance of the Forum of National Assembly Legislative Aides from the North West, which reportedly expressed displeasure with the refusal of Yari to back down for Senator Akpabio.

“We were not surprised that the Forum of Legislative Aides of the National Assembly would hold a Press Conference to insinuate that Yari’s backing out of the race was the only way forward just because they have a hidden agenda . Truth is, at the end of the day, only Senators elected under the 10th Senate have the power to choose their leaders from amongst themselves.

“We’re  happy to have read and fully support the position of the ruling party as reflected in the full-page interview of the National Chairman of the APC, His Excellency Abdullahi  Adamu, in the Daily Trust, when he said ‘ Senators will elect elect their leaders on D-day”, the NPF Director said in the Statement

Millions of seasoned Ministers and Pastors from around the world would participate in the two-day Global Ministers’ Classroom (GMC) with Pastor Chris, an interdenominational program organized under the auspices of the International School of Ministry for Prayer, Fellowship, Strategy, and the Word.

The program is open to all Ministers of the Gospel – Church Leaders, Pastors, Ministry Leaders and Executives, Ministry staff, and all categories of Church Workers. The first edition of the program which was held in 2018, was born out of the desire of the man of God, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Dsc D.D, to have a platform through which the Holy Spirit equips and imparts Ministers of the Gospel for remarkable and transformational impact in Ministry. Over the years, classroom attendance has increased; from 8 million in 2018 to 78 million in 2022 with participating Ministers from 239 Nations of the world.

Today, the GMC has become one of the tools that have helped millions of ministers of the Gospel around the world to become effective in their work and walk in ministry; and to fulfill God’s calling upon their lives. Indeed, in these unprecedented times, the Global Ministers’ Classroom will strengthen Ministers’ desire to fulfill their role in evangelization and making disciples of nations.

This year’s 24-hour edition with the man of God, Pastor Chris, is scheduled to commence on Friday, 2nd of June by 2 pm GMT+1 and ends on Saturday, 3rd of June. There will also be teachings from seasoned Senior Ministers of the Gospel, impact testimonies from previous program attendees, Question and Answer segment, where participants will have their questions answered by the man of God in real-time, and lots more. It promises to be an extraordinary time of revelatory teachings and impartation for greater works in these last days.

“Ministers of the Gospel, prepare for the program and pray about it….it is the Spirit’s call; it is a moment of mobilization; God is mobilizing His Army; He is getting us ready for the final phase for the work of the Church in this world.” Rev. Chris Oyakhilome, Dsc DD.

The event will also be broadcast live in all major languages of the world; to allow many more ministers of the Gospel to participate in the program.
Registration for the program is on and free; so go ahead to register yourself, Ministers, and Christian leaders in your sphere of contact via
http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org/v/NigeriaGMC/

Ministers who have attended previous editions of the program recount their experience and testimonies of the impact of the program thus:
“I attended GMC 2022, and experienced a tangible increase in the anointing of God’s Spirit in my personal life and Ministry. My church has also experienced increased growth tremendously ever since”- Pastor Martinis Marinko from Croatia

“Through the teachings at the GMC, my leadership capacity was greatly increased. I became more committed to the vision of global evangelism, which led me to travel to countries such as Singapore and Bangladesh, to host Ministers Conferences for the training and equipping for more ministers for phenomenal ministry impact”.- Pastor MV. Thomas from India

“Following my participation in the GMC, the fire and passion to win more souls for Jesus was greatly stirred. I held a crusade in Nairobi, Kenya and packed out the stadium. Thousands of souls received salvation and many miracles were recorded. This brought about an increase in my church growth” – Pastor Judah Kalinga from Uganda

“After one of the editions of the GMC, I hosted the largest Ministers Conference in my country. I have also experienced notable increase in my personal finance, church growth and leadership capacity”.- Pastor Isaac Zirebwa from Zimbabwe

The 2023 GMC is just a few days away! Ministers of the Gospel from every nation on Earth will converge in this global online assembly, and be transported by God’s Spirit to fresh and new levels of effectiveness in life and ministry.

To register for the program, kindly log on to
http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org/v/NigeriaGMC/
and invite other Ministers of the Gospel and Christian Leaders in your world.

By Matthew Denis Abuja

A business Mogul and Chief Executive Officer of Kubib Limited, Engr. Khadijat Kuburat Ibrahim has described the mother of the two Emirs of Kano Emirates, Hajia Maryam Ado Bayero has her role model who had lived an examplary life by possessing true virtues of a mother.

She made the disclosure during an interview with Journalists shortly after the launched of the Biography of the late Mother of the Emirs of Kano, Ado Bayero II and Bichi, Nasiru Ado Bayero held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja on Thursday.

Engr. Ibrahim said ” probably words cannot express my feelings because I’m from ilorin and she is my role model. This book that is being launched today I believe is going to change alot of people’s lives especially women to be humble, courageous and exceptional because of her virtues.

” In fact I don’t even know the words I can use to describe her personality but I’m just happy that this happened and it’s a success.

Speaking on low pace women participation in politics she stressed that it depends how people perceive the political Activities but she has more interest in Investment as a businesswoman and satisfied with her status.

She said ” I will like advice women that are into politics not to give up because women rule the world too but as for me I’m ruling the business life. “

Top Dignitaries at the event includes the Governor of Kano State, Dr Umaru Ganduje, Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Senators Godwin Akpabio and Senator Barau, other government appointees, Wife of Former Head of States, Maryam Abacha, Captains of Industries

Others were Sultan of Sokoto, Abubakar Saad Mohammed, the Ooni of Ile, Emir of Kano Ado Bayero and that of Bichi Among other monarchs.

Mike Odeh James

Barrister Chuks Nwachuku Esq.
Solicitor to Abuja Residents and Voters has warned that if Nigeria proceed to install Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu President and Commander-in-Chief under the present circumstances, Nigeria would be setting democracy up for overthrow.

Nwachuku in a press statement on behalf of his clients titled “BEFORE YOU OVERTHROW THE CONSTITUTION AND DEMOCRACY” said section 134(2)(b) states that a candidate for the office of President at an election involving two or more candidates is deemed duly elected where the candidate obtains the highest votes at the election and at least 25% of the votes in each of two thirds of all the States and the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. Where no candidate meets this requirement, there should be a second election between the candidate with the highest votes and one out of the remainder who has a majority of the votes in the highest number of States. Where the requirement of spread is still not met, there should be a third election between the two which should be decided on a simple majority of votes. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not obtain the required 25% of the votes in Abuja but insists on being sworn in as President and Commander-in-Chief.

Nwachuku further made the call to exercise discipline and obey the simple instruction of our Constitution. Section 134(3)(a) and (b) and proceed to a second election between Tinubu, as the candidate with the highest votes, and one of the other candidates that has the majority of votes in the highest number of States.

He implore the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President and Commander in Chief, the security chiefs and all other officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria not to be complicit in the overthrow of the Constitution by lending their support for the installation of Tinubu as President of this country on May 29th or any other day under the present election results.

See the Full Statement Below:

BEFORE YOU OVERTHROW THE CONSTITUTION AND DEMOCRACY

I have a solemn and urgent duty today. It is to alert you to the danger that you are about throwing away our hard won democracy due to the culture of indiscipline, impunity and insensitivity that you have grown in recent years.

The Issue:

The issue is simple. The Constitution at section 134(2)(b) states that a candidate for the office of President at an election involving two or more candidates is deemed duly elected where the candidate obtains the highest votes at the election and at least 25% of the votes in each of two thirds of all the States and the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. Where no candidate meets this requirement, there should be a second election between the candidate with the highest votes and one out of the remainder who has a majority of the votes in the highest number of States. Where the requirement of spread is still not met, there should be a third election between the two which should be decided on a simple majority of votes. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not obtain the required 25% of the votes in Abuja but insists on being sworn in as President and Commander-in-Chief.

The Threat:
Section 1(2) of the Constitution prohibits anyone or group from taking control of the Government of the Federation or any part thereof contrary to the provisions of the Constitution. It is the responsibility of all Nigerians, including the military to safeguard the Constitution. Section 14(2)(a) of the Constitution expressly declares that the people are the true sovereign and the ultimate authority in the land from whom the Government derives the authority to govern through the Constitution.

The Constitution has therefore authorized each and every Nigerian in whatever position that he finds himself and with whatever means at his disposal to safeguard the Constitution by resisting any would-be impostor from power. The primary allegiance of our soldiers is to the Constitution, which is also the source of their own authority and standing as officers of the nation. They cannot be expected to give allegiance to anyone that is installed President contrary to the Constitution.

The upshot is that if we proceed to install Tinubu President and Commander-in-Chief under the present circumstances, we would be setting democracy up for overthrow. The intervention, ostensibly to restore the authority of the Constitution, and democracy, might mean that this country might not experience democracy again for a long time.

We have the experience of late Earnest Shonekan and the Interim National Government that he headed that was sacked by a Lagos High Court for lack of constitutional foundation for guidance and certainty regarding the point that every High Court in this country is empowered to interpret the Constitution and may therefore sack Tinubu, if installed, with a simple declaration. That would set the stage for extra constitutional actions that would be justified with the excuse of restoring the authority of the Constitution. It would be the death of democracy in the country.

The Solution:
We need to exercise discipline to obey the simple instruction of our Constitution. Section 134(3)(a) and (b) instruct us to proceed to a second election between Tinubu, as the candidate with the highest votes, and one of the other candidates that has the majority of votes in the highest number of States. We should embark on that in earnest.

May 29th 2023 and after:

We are faced with neither the prospect of a vacuum in the office of President nor that of constitutional crises if we put off the planned inauguration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Constitution expects us to do. His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari GCON, has the authority, nay, the order of the Constitution to remain in office to guard and guide the action while processes for the due emergence of his successor continue until that successor takes the oath of office. If we proceed to install Tinubu unconstitutionally, the Constitution would still continue to regard President Buhari as the President and Commander in Chief. Anything that is done contrary to the Constitution is a nullity. Four years as a tenure under section 135(2)(a) would become an issue only when there is a due successor available to take the oath of office.

We implore the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President and Commander in Chief, the security chiefs and all other officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria not to be complicit in the overthrow of the Constitution by lending their support for the installation of Tinubu as President of this country on May 29th or any other day under the present election results.

The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal:

The PEPT as presently engaged has no constitutional basis. It is only when there is a valid declaration of a winner of the election that its jurisdiction can be invoked. The grounds for invoking it under section 134 of the Electoral Act are (1) non-qualification of the winner (b) invalidity of the election, and © failure of the declared winner to obtain majority of the votes. The issue of failure to secure 25% of the votes in two thirds of all the States and the FCT is not one of the conditions. It is left out because it is a constitutional issue that should be resolved before the PEPT is constituted. The Constitution demands a second election at the present time unless any petitioner before the PEPT can satisfy it that he fulfilled the requirements of section 134(2)(b) of the Constitution and should have been declared winner.

Conclusion:
We call on the intentional community not to encourage the overthrow of democracy and the possible institution of anarchy in the Nigeria with their support for the unconstitutional installation of Tinubu as the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on the 29th of May 2023.

Chuks Nwachuku Esq.
Solicitor to Abuja Residents and Voters.

Comrade Elliot Afiyo is the National President of the Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF), the umbrella Organisation of 42 Northern youth groups founded in 1994 by the Northern Traditional, Military, Political and Religious leaders to propagate and protect the northern political and economic interest within the national interest.

Comrade (Dr) Elliot Afiyo is also the Secretary – General of the Association of West African Monarchs (AWAM), the umbrella body of Traditional Rulers in West Africa. In this interview with Journalists in Abeokuta, Comrade Afiyo bares his mind on the 2023 general elections.

Questions;

Comrade sir, since 1999, your Forum secured victories for Candidates you endorsed and supported at all levels since 1999. But in the last presidential elections, former vice president Atiku lost in spite of all your support and endorsement. What went wrong Sir?

Comrade Afiyo;

Thank you very much. I want to tell you categorically that Atiku did not lose the 2023 presidential election because there wasn’t any candidate that meets up with the constitutional requirements to be declared the winner of the 2023 presidential election. It was a conspiracy in dietriabe to declaring Tinubu as the winner of that election for fear of a rerun. 2023 presidential election was full of betrayals, conspiracies and deceptions

Questions;

But your Forum couldn’t make the difference like the previous elections since 1999.

Comrade Afiyo;

Our Forum performed the best ever since 1999. For the first time, our Forum faced the toughest and most challenging election and came out with good results especially in the North- East and North- West geopolitical zones.

Questions;

How tough was the election sir?

Comrade Afiyo;

You see, I held a press conference in Kano two weeks to the elections and drew the attention of our presidential candidate of an organised deception and betrayals. All the APC governors that promised to work for Atiku changed their minds three days to the elections because of the senseless and leucitic statement made by one of the Atiku’s campaign spokesmen that Atiku will investigate and jail them.

Secondly, the statement made by Atiku that he was going to restructure the country even at the detriment of his life, made the Fulani elites to work against him.

Thirdly, 85% of the people Atiku made as PCC members also betrayed him because the dollars given to them for logistics and mobilization, was only shared amongst and between them. They had erroneous and lithifying confidence that with or without mobilization, Atiku will win.

Fourthly, the people that were sincerely and honestly working for Atiku were side lined, barricaded, excluded and isolated. Thanks to some our patrons who saw all these things and decided to mobilise us and also gotten some assistance from international Organisations. These mobilisations coupled with our determination and commitments made the difference in the voting outcome.

We saw ourselves fighting against the collective decision of the Northern Governors, Fulani Elites and the Religious leaders from both the Islamic and Christian religions.

The Imams were heavily mobilised with millions of dollars while the statement made by Governor El-Rufai about the northern Christians population also encouraged and gingered the Christian clerics to mobilise Christians to waste their votes for Obi so as to prove El-Rufai wrong and teaches him and his cohorts a protogenetic and dangerous lesson. The ethnic angle was also given priority in some States like Kogi, Kwara and Niger. You can now see the forces NYLF faced and still ensured that Atiku won in the North.

Question;

Why Niger State?

Comrade Afiyo:

Whether you believe IT or not, Asiwaju has a link with the Nupes.

Question

Are you saying Tinubu did not win the 2023 Presidential election?

Comrade Afiyo;

I am telling you without fear of contradiction that Tinubu did not win the election that meets up with the constitutional requirements even after results were doctored. Prof Yakubu knew it and he made up his mind to announce a rerun. Thirty minutes to the announcement, he was summoned and the decision was changed. Alterations and doctoring of results were made, that is why he reluctantly staged a podiatric coup against democracy and Nigerians, by going ahead and announced Tinubu as the winner at about 4:am

Questions;

Sir, are you saying that Prof Yakubu staged a coup?

Comrade Afiyo;

Prof. Yakubu is a learn tic Coupist by every reasoning. Coups are normally announced at early hours of the day and that what was he did. I will not be surprised if Prof Yakubu is arrested and tried for treasonable felony in the nearest future.

Question;

But the Northern Elders Forum and the Arewa Consultative Forum supported Atiku?

Comrade Afiyo;

All these pressure groups are constituted for political relevance and financial patronage. They are far from translating to political victories. Unfortunately, the Aspirants and the Candidates patronize them at the detriment of the Youth groups. Some of these Individuals are not known in their localities. And if they are known, they cannot command political fellowship and followership which will translate to political voting and by extension, political victories.

Questions;

Sir, so you agree with Governor El-Rufai that they don’t control votes?

Comrade Afiyo;

I totally agree with him because he said nothing but the truth. How many of these Elders will secure a political victory for their Councillors not to talk of President? The Governors and the Youth Leaders control and determine the direction of voting in the North. The clerics are far politically better than these Elders.

The only aspect that I disagree with EL-Rufai is denigration and localisation of the elders by calling them ‘so called elders’ and his statement on the Northern Christians which has caused major division among the Northerners. If care is not taken or more awareness created, it will be very difficult for a Northerner to win presidential election in the nearest future in a free and fair elections unless that Northerner is a Muslim and must come from one of the minority tribes.

Question;

President Buhari said that Atiku lost the election because of over confidence and complacency

Comrade Afiyo;

That’s very true, over confidence in the sense that PCC members were doing what they feel like. Even the presidential Candidate and his running Mate were deliberately ignoring some stakeholders. The support groups were ignored and downgraded. The G5 Governors were termed and considered inconsequential. The Governor of Bauchi who is very popular and influential in the country especially the Northern Youth, was isolated not until I decided to take an action that maybe so devastating, before he was visited and invited for negotiation.

Let me tell you the truth, most of the key members of PCC of the PDP worked against Atiku because they have interest in 2027 and Atiku winning this election will block them. This is more reason why they pocketed the dollars, thereby frustrating the genuine efforts of Atiku’s supporters.

Another factor that causes complacency was the appointment of his spokesmen who were caucus members of the APC. These were people verily known with Tinubu, whatever they said were not given any serious consideration.

You can see Senator Dino saying ALLAH YA ISA to PDP in 2015. The same Dino saying ALLAH YA ISA to APC in 2019 and 2023. Spiritually, any Candidate that Dino becomes his or her Spokesman under PDP or APC, will never wins the election because he has used the same tongue to curse the Parties.

Question;

Sir, we read in some National Dailies prior to the elections that some Emirs threatened to assassinate you if Atiku wins the election in their States. How true is this statement?

Comrade Afiyo;

Absolutely true, two of them told our Co-ordinators that they will assassinate me if Atiku wins in their States. I personally called them to confirm the story and they affirmed it. These threats made me to relocate to one of the States and informed the Emir that I was in the State to ensure that Atiku wins in all the States. I called some of our Patrons who mobilised funds for us. When Atiku won in the State, I placed a call to the Emir who later invited me for a dinner in his palace. After the Dinner, he looked at me said “shege Batta jo”, and I smiled and said mi yeti barkama walla aibe”. And that was all.

Question;

Sir, we were also told that Tinubu’s camp is making overtures for you to join the team.

Comrade Afiyo;

For now, I will not join them until the final pronouncement by the Supreme court. In fact, the Northern Youth will never recognize Tinubu as President of Nigeria even after the swearing – in until the final pronouncement by the Supreme Court.

Question;

Are you saying that the inauguration ceremony should be stopped?

Comrade Afiyo:

Under common sense or literal reasoning, the inauguration should have been done after final pronouncement by the Court. But in a situation like this, one should not expect that to happened. Seriously, it is a major set- back to our Country. But I am quite sure that God’s will would prevail very soon.

Question

There was a story in one of the daily newspapers that you led a Team of investigation from UN and EU to visit the six geo- political zones and the Team was sponsored by one of your patrons.

Comrade Afiyo;

The Team was a fact-finding Team. I was just privileged to guide them.

Question;

What do we expect from you and your Forum from now?

Comrade Afiyo;

For now, let us allow the will of God to prevail. This is our only country that we can call our home. Enough of crisis and shedding of innocent blood. Let us all be law abiding and give maximum support to the security agencies. Sooner or later, Nigerians will definitely rejoice.

*Says its time to focus proactive legislative duties

Honourable Blessing Onuh, has enjoined politicians to resist the culture of filing frivolous petitions that could distract public office holders from delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

The Lawmaker representing Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), gave the charge at a world press conference in Abuja yesterday, pointing out that elections are over and is time for political stakeholders to begin to work together irrespective of political leanings.

Onuh, while acknowledging that elections petitions was an essential part of our democratic process, however warned that culture of filing frivolous petitions against political opponents was a distraction.

The Federal Lawmaker was reacting to the recent withdrawal of the suit instituted by Hon Alex Enokela Ogbe, against her victory in the February 25th National Assembly election.

Recall that Hon. Ogbe had on Friday, May 19th 2023, announced his decision to withdraw the case instituted against Hon. Lady Blessing Onuh, the APC and INEC in the 2023 election petition tribunal.

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a statement personally signed himself, stated that the difficult decision was for the general interest of Otukpo Ohimini people.

Ogbe, while congratulating Lady Blessing Onuh, vow to offer his support and assistance to her where needed for the betterment of the people.

“We are using this medium to make known our intention to withdraw the case instituted against Hon. Lady Blessing Onuh of the APC, the APC and INEC in the 2023 election petition tribunal.

“We have taken this difficult decision for the general interest of Otukpo Ohimini people who we seek to serve.

“We will offer support and assistance to the house of representatives member elect Otukpo Ohimini where needed for the betterment of the people of Otukpo Ohimini.

“We pray God gives her the strength to meet the desires of the people of Otukpo Ohimini for which she represent,” he stated.

Onuh while applauding Mr. Ogbe’s decision to withdraw his petition, described his action as political maturity which speaks volume about the unity in Benue South.

The lawmaker who however, maintained that she won the February 2023 election conducted in a free and fair contest, enjoined him to work together with her and all Idoma progressives in the progress, unity and development of Otukpo/Ohimini Federal constituency.

In her words, “I acknowledge the withdrawal of the suit instituted against my victory by Mr Ogbe. However, I must state categorically that I won the February 2023 election conducted in a free and fair contest.

“I view the decision of Mr Ogbe as an act of political maturity which speaks volume about the unity in Benue South. I urge politicians to avoid frivolous petitions which is a distraction.

“I feel honoured by the humble demonstration of his sportsmanship and enjoin him to work together with me and all Idoma progressives in the progress, unity and development of Otukpo/Ohimini Federal constituency.

“Elections have come and gone, I want to emphasize that I represent the entire constituency irrespective of political leanings,” she stated.

A Group Known as Professional for good governancen(PGG) has said With May 29, 2023 a few days away, and the inauguration of brand new State Executive Governors in 28 States of the Federation, they are concerned about the quality of leadership and the prospects before Nigerians.

Engr. Ogbonna Nwaiwu spokes person of the group while wishing the incoming Chief Executives the best and said It is trite to state that the group keenly followed the entire electoral process leading to the February 25th Presidential and National Assembly elections, and the March 18th Governorship and State Assembly elections and x-rayed the manifestos of the candidates and assessed their preparedness to improve the lot of the people, and to make their States better.

Engr Nwaiwu further stated that one of the candidates exuded an uncommon preparedness and clear-headedness throughout the period of Campaign, and has continued to inspire great hope even after the election.

He said the Governor Elect of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mbah comes to the Party with a bag full of ideas. And wished him well.

Part of the statement reads. ” Indeed, his extraordinary disposition to the task ahead was manifest from the start, from his campaign manifesto to the grasp of the issues and the challenges facing Enugu State; from his commitment to berthing a New Enugu State to the passion that saw him through the electoral process; and from his promise to light up Enugu, and provide Pipe borne within the first 180days of his stewardship, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah offers renewed hope to Ndi’Enugu.”

“There is a fervency in the land that calls for responsible and responsive watchmen at different leadership strata, it is that fervency that inspires our group to search out and align with Leaders who are ready to lead right. We are committed to supporting the prepared to do justice to the letters of their manifesto, whilst challenging those who apparently may not be very prepared to take a cue from those who like Barrister Peter Mbah shows the readiness to hit the ground running from the moment he takes the Oath of Office.”

“Clearly Ndi’Enugu are set for a new dawn, a new deal and a new day in leadership. It is palpable, we feel it, and we can see so much happening even before the Swearing-In of the incoming Governor of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mbah.”

“Are you aware that at his personal cost, facilities and materials necessary for the lighting up of strategic areas in the State, and materials relevant for the Pipe borne water he promised within his first 180 days are being assembled?”

“Are you aware that he has assembled a Team of Experts, Technocrats, Eggs heads, Professionals and Ideologues to give life and proactive strategic input to the details of his manifesto, a document he respects as proof his social contract with Ndi’Enugu?”

“Are you aware that Barrister Peter Mbah is not just a Technocrat in Politics, but a Lawyer, an accomplished Businessman and one who has the requisite governmental experience necessary to take Enugu State to a new pedestal. Are you aware that he is Competent, that he has the Capacity, that he is Credible, that he is Compassionate and that he has the Commitment necessary and relevant to build an Enugu State that works for all?”

“As the Peter Ndubuisi Mbah era beckons we wish Ndi’Enugu the best, and pray that the Almighty grant the incoming Governor the candour and the composure to deliver, and to make real the elaborate promises and projections he has on paper.”

“We wish Ndi’Enugu the best, and pray that across the States of the Federation leaders become responsible and responsive to the people.”

“As Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah takes over as the Governor of Enugu State on the 29th of May, 2023, we wish him well. And say Congratulations to Ndi’Enugu.”