The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • ‘Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory ’

    ‘Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory ’

    • Text of Democracy Day broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

    Fellow Nigerians.

    It is exactly three decades today that Nigerians went to the polls to exercise their inalienable right to elect a President of their choice to lead the transition from military dictatorship to a representative government of the people.

    The abortion, by military fiat, of the decisive victory of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the June 12, 1993, presidential election, up to that time, the fairest and freest election in the country’s political evolution, turned out, ironically, to be the seed that germinated into the prolonged struggle that gave birth to the democracy we currently enjoy since 1999.

    In rising to strongly oppose the arbitrary annulment of the will of the majority of Nigerians as expressed in that historic election, the substantial number of our people who participated in the struggle to de-annul the election signified their fierce commitment to enthroning democracy as a form of government that best ennobles the liberty, the dignity of the individual and the integrity as well as the stability of the polity. The fierce opposition to the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the unrelenting pro-democracy onslaught it unleashed was the equivalent of the battle against colonial rule by our founding fathers that resulted in the gaining of Nigeria’s independence in 1960.

     Just like the anti-colonial movement, the pro-June 12 vanguard demonstrated, once again, the enduring validity of the 19th century historian, Arnold Toynbee’s eternal postulation, that civilisation and societies experience progress as they are forced to respond to challenges posed by the environment. The unjust annulment of a widely acknowledged free and fair election was a challenge that elicited resistance by a resurgent civil society, leading ultimately to the attainment of our ‘second independence’ as exemplified by the return of democratic governance in 1999.

    Fellow compatriots, we celebrate a day that has remained a watershed in our nation’s history, not just today, but for every June 12, for the endless future that our beloved country shall exist and wax stronger and stronger, generations of Nigerians will always remind themselves that the democracy that is steadily growing to become the defining essence of our polity was not gifted to us on a silver platter.

    We can easily recall the sacrifice and martyrdom of Chief MKO Abiola, the custodian of the sacred mandate that was so cruelly annulled. He sacrificed his life in unyielding, patriotic defence of the ideals of democracy as symbolised in his choice, by his fellow countrymen and women, as their duly-elected President. There was an easier choice for him. It was to forgo the justice of his cause and opt for the path of ease and capitulation in the face of the tyranny of power. To his eternal credit and immortal glory, Abiola said no. He demonstrated the time-tested eternal truth that there are certain ideals and principles that are far more valuable than life itself.

     Everyday, on this day, down the ages we will recall the several other heroes of democracy, such as Kudirat Abiola, wife of Chief Abiola, who was brutally murdered while in the trenches fighting on the side of the people. We remember Pa Alfred Rewane, one of the heroes of our independence struggle and Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (retd.) who were silenced by the military junta while in pursuit of democracy. They gave their yesterday for the liberty that is ours today.

    The point is that we must never take this democracy for granted. We must forever jealously guard and protect it like a precious jewel.For, a people can never truly appreciate the freedoms and rights democracy guarantees them until they lose it.

    We have traversed the dark, thorny path of dictatorship before and those who experienced it can readily testify to the unbridgeable gap between the dignity of freedom and the humiliation and degradation of tyranny. True, rancorous debates, interminable wrangling, ceaseless quarrels, bitter electoral contestations may be perceived by some as unattractive features of democracy. But they also testify to its merit and value.

    This year, we held the seventh in the cycle of elections that have become sacred rituals of our democratic practice in this dispensation since 1999.

    Read Also: Atiku, Obi seek transparent elections

    That the polls were intensely contested is in itself positive evidence that democracy is well and alive in our land. It is only natural that even as those who won and experienced victory in the various elections are elated and fulfilled, those who lost are disenchanted and disappointed. But the beauty of democracy is that those who win today can lose tomorrow and those who lose today will have an opportunity to compete and win in the next round of elections.

    Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory when it is their turn to triumph. Above all, those who disagree with the outcome of the elections are taking full advantage of the constitutional provisions to seek redress in court and that is one of the reasons why democracy is still the best form of government invented by man.

    For Chief MKO Abiola, the symbol of this day, in whose memory June 12 became a national holiday, democracy is eternal.

     It is about rule of law and vibrant judiciary that can be trusted to deliver justice and strengthen institutions. It has become imperative to state here that the unnecessary illegal orders used to truncate or abridge democracy will no longer be tolerated.

    The recent harmonization of the retirement age for judicial officers is meant to strengthen the rule of law, which is a critical pillar of democracy. The reform has just started.

    The democracy that will yield right dividends to the people who are the shareholders means more than just freedom of choice and right to get people into elective offices. It means social and economic justice for our people. To the winner of June 12, democracy offers the best chance to fight and eliminate poverty. Thirty years ago, he christened his campaign manifesto, ‘Farewell to Poverty’ because he was convinced that there is nothing divine about poverty. It is a man-made problem that can be eliminated with clearly thought out social and economic policies.

     It is for this reason that, in my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor-in-office to remove the fuel subsidy albatross and free up for collective use the much-needed resources, which had hitherto been pocketed by a few rich. I admit that the decision will impose extra burden on the masses of our people. I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements.

    Painfully, I have asked you, my compatriots, to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country. For your trust and belief in us, I assure you that your sacrifice shall not be in vain. The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.

    The democracy MKO Abiola died for is one that promotes the welfare of the people over personal interests of the ruling class and one where the governed can find personal fulfillment and happiness. That is the hope MKO Abiola ignited throughout our country in 1993.

     On this year’s Democracy Day, I enjoin us all to rededicate ourselves to strengthening this form of government of free peoples that has been our guiding light these past 24 years. In particular, those of us who have been privileged to be elected into public offices at various levels in both the executive and legislative arms of government must recommit ourselves to offering selfless service to the people, and delivering concrete democracy dividends in accordance with our electoral promises.

    On my part and that of my administration, I pledge anew our commitment to diligently fulfilling every component of our electoral pact with the people – the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.

    We shall be faithful to truth. Faithful to equity. And faithful to justice. We shall exercise our authority and mandate to govern with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to always uphold the dignity of all our people.

    On this note, I wish us all a happy Democracy Day celebration and pray that the light of liberty shall never be extinguished in our land.

    Thank you all and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.  

  • French Open: Djokovic claims record 23rd Grand Slam

    French Open: Djokovic claims record 23rd Grand Slam

    Novak Djokovic became the greatest player in the history of men’s professional tennis as he celebrated a record-breaking 23rd Slam at the French Open in Paris yesterday

    A 7-6 6-3 7-5 victory over Casper Ruud means that for the first time in his career, the Serbian can boast more majors than his great rivals Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal.

    Subjectively, fans may argue the retired Federer will always be the maestro of this sport, an artist with a tennis racquet.

    There are those who would point to and debate the merits of Nadal’s unrivalled supremacy at Roland Garros and his indefatigable warrior spirit.

    But love him or loathe him, statistically-speaking no man has won more top titles than Djokovic – a target he has been chasing ever since he turned professional 20 years ago.

    And the women’s Slam target of 24 set by Margaret Court in 1973 is within his reach when he dons Wimbledon whites next month.

    Several sporting superstars were courtside in the 16th arrondissement to watch Djokovic’s moment of immortality.

    Tom Brady, considered to be the GOAT of American Football, was a guest in the Djokovic box and would have appreciated the unfolding racquet drama.

    France World Cup winners Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud and former Sweden and Manchester United forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic watched from the comfy VIP seats as Djokovic achieved his crowning glory in straight sets.

    Djokovic – who returns to the summit of the world rankings – is now the first man in history to win each Slam tournament at least three times.

    And aged 36 years and 20 days, he eclipses Nadal as the oldest singles champion on red Parisian clay.

    Of course, nobody is immune from nerves and anxiety in the big sporting moments – not even those icons who are at the pinnacle of their chosen professions – and Djokovic is no exception.

    How else to explain what we witnessed in the opening tussles of his record-equalling 34th Slam final appearance when he found himself out-of-sorts and operating well below his otherwise extraordinary range.

    Twenty-one minutes had passed on the Rolex-sponsored clock and to the surprise of everybody on Court Philippe-Chatrier, particularly the masses of Serbian flag-waving fans, Ruud was 3-0 up and deservedly so.

    The key was a break in game two when Djokovic fluffed an overhead smash, arguably the biggest weakness in his almost near-perfect armoury.

    But Ruud – who then moved 4-1 ahead – could not capitalise on this advantage, suffering his own jitters with the overhead smash in game seven.

    That effort Ruud sent into the net as his serve was broken following a magnificent 28-shot rally loosened the vice-like grip he had established on Djokovic.

    After an entertaining Ruud tweener lob and then a Djokovic slip, the first set eventually had to be resolved via a tie-break.

    And it was in this pressurised format where Djokovic showed his enduring class, winning seven of the eight points.

    Read Also: French Open: Alcaraz, Djokovic set for battle of generations

    Astonishingly, Djokovic – who had moaned to the chair umpire about the time allocation granted between games – had not recorded a single unforced error in his five previous tie-breaks.

    And the Belgrade battler maintained that unblemished record here to take the first set with 81 minutes gone.

    You felt that Norwegian Ruud, 12 years the junior, simply had to win that first set to stand any chance of causing an upset and helping out his idol Nadal, in whose academy he learned the tricks of the tramlines.

    That is because Djokovic had won his last 100 MATCHES at the majors when he had clinched the opening set – the last reversal in fortunes coming in the 2016 US Open final defeat to Stan Wawrinka.

    It was now only a matter of time before Djokovic, 36, would take possession of the Coupes des Mousquetaires for a third time

    The second set lacked the same intensity and incident as the first and Djokovic simply motored through the gears.

    Ruud, 24, had lost his previous two Slam final appearances and he did not possess the weaponry or craft to stop Djokovic over the course of three hours of combat.

    The moment of destiny arrived in game 12 of the third set on the second Championship point when a forehand from Ruud travelled wide and Djokovic fell to the ground in celebration.

  • Babangida to politicians: use June 12 gains to deepen democracy

    Babangida to politicians: use June 12 gains to deepen democracy

    Former military President  Ibrahim Babangida has tasked Nigerian leaders to explore the gains of the June 12, 1993, presidential election and use them to deepen democracy in the country.

    Babangida described the poll as a “learning curve” but noted that political leaders had yet to tap into it for the purpose of encouraging more voter participation.

    He spoke yesterday with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) through his media aide Kassim Afegbua.

    The former military leader whose regime annulled the poll won by the late  Chief MKO Abiola said: “The gains of June 12, 1993, presidential election have not been exploited by political leaders in succeeding elections in Nigeria.

    “It was adjudged the freest and fairest election in Nigeria, yet politicians have blatantly ignored that beauty; the beauty of credible elections.

    “Remember, it was an election Nigerians came out en mass to choose their leaders, irrespective of their cultural/traditional and religious affiliations.” 

    The former military president noted that although Nigeria’s democracy had recorded some growth, there were still many grounds to be covered.

    Read Also: Atiku, Babangida meet in Minna

    “There is thuggery in politics in Nigeria, too many litigations in Nigeria, too many issues that transparent elections ought to have addressed,” he said.

    Babangida blamed increasing voter apathy on the insincerity of political leaders. 

    “June 12 should naturally encourage more voters to endorse democracy and election, but the number of turnouts during our election is gradually declining.

    “Right now there is voter apathy, that’s the more reason why something must be done to ensure mass participation in the election,” he said.

    He, however,  said that the country’s democracy had gotten more advanced with some achievements.

    “Nigeria’s democracy is getting older and older. Democracy has come to stay but despite the imperfections, we can still get our arts together to correct some of the issues and continue on that trajectory.

    “It is a learning curve and a work in progress. Our leaders must continue to invest their time, energy and resources to deepen democracy and sustain democratic ideals,” Babangida said.

  • Yari’s group hopeful

    Yari’s group hopeful

    The campaign team of Abdul’aziz Yari for Senate President yesterday denied allegations of financial inducement ahead of tomorrow’s inauguration of the 10th National Assembly.

    Dismissing claims by the Akpabio camp that senators-elect were being financially induced to vote for Yari, a member of the Yari camp, who spoke in confidence, described the allegation as “not only false, laughable, but also unfortunate”.

    He said: “Senators-elect across the camps see this allegation as a deliberate smear on our individual and collective reputation, integrity and image.”

    He expressed hope that Senator-elect Yari will carry the day.

    Read Also: 10th NASS: Shelve your ambition to become hero, Natives tell Yari

    Northern Coalition raises alarm over plans to arrest Yari

    The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) raised the alarm over an alleged plan to arrest key northern aspirants for House of Representatives speaker and Senate President.

    The northern group also alleged that former Governor of Zamfara State, Abdulaziz Yari and some of his strong support pillars were being threatened with arrest to intimidate him out of the contest.

    The spokesperson of the group, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, in a statement, said some elements were hatching evil plans without the consent of President Bola Tinubu.

    Suleiman said: “This plot, as widely speculated, involves the introduction of a suspicious electronic voting system in the process meant to track the pattern of voting in the National Assembly.”

  • Stakeholders seek positive action to deepen democracy

    Stakeholders seek positive action to deepen democracy

    Babangida urges Nigerians to consolidate on gains of June 12

    Former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), has tasked Nigerian leaders to use the gains of the June 12, 1993, presidential election to deepen democracy in the country.

    Gen. Babangida who spoke in Minna, the Niger State capital, said the gains of the June 12, 1993, presidential election have not been exploited by political leaders in succeeding elections in the country.

     The former president spoke through his Media Aide, Kassim Afegbua, said: “It was adjudged the freest and fairest election in Nigeria, yet politicians have blatantly ignored that beauty; the beauty of credible elections. Remember, it was an election Nigerians came out en mass to choose their leaders, irrespective of their cultural/traditional and religious affiliations.”

    Babangida said that although Nigeria’s democracy had recorded some growth, there were still many grounds to be covered. He added: “There is thuggery in politics in Nigeria, too much litigation in Nigeria, too many issues that transparent elections ought to have addressed.”

    Read Also: June 12 and the search for democracy

    He decried increasing voter apathy in Nigeria’s election, attributing it to insincerity by the leaders resulting in a lack of trust in the electorate. He said: “June 12 should naturally encourage more voters to endorse democracy and election, but the turnout during our election is gradually declining.

    “Right now there is voter apathy, that’s the more reason why something must be done to ensure mass participation in the election.”

    The retired General admitted, however, that it is a learning curve and a work in progress, as the country’s democracy is yet to get to where it ought to be. He added: “Our leaders must continue to invest their time, energy and resources to deepen democracy and sustain democratic ideals.”

  • Akpabio’s camp upbeat with 72 Senators-elect support

    Akpabio’s camp upbeat with 72 Senators-elect support

    Ahead of tomorrow’s inauguration of the 10th National Assembly, Vice President Kashim Shettima has intensified lobbying to earn more votes for Senator Godswill Akpabio. 

    Shettima has reached out to ex-governors Danjuma Goje, Aliyu Wammako and Adamu Aliero who are emerging as strong forces in the 10th Senate. 

    The Senators-elect behind Akpabio said his choice  will assist President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give a sense of belonging to all parts of the country. 

    It was learnt that Shettima was able to assuage anti-North sentiments being branded by some Senators-elect in the camp of Sen. Abdulaziz Yari, who is also seeking to lead the 10th Senate. 

    A source, who spoke in confidence, said: “So far, about 72 Senators are backing Akpabio. The real gain is that this support cuts across all the parties. 

    “We met on Saturday night and for the first time, a clearer picture of where we stand is emerging. With a margin of doubt, we can talk of 65 Senators-elect out of the 72. 

    “Ordinarily, we need 55 Senators-elect to secure a simple majority victory for Akpabio but we are building more bridges of friendship and understanding. We are not relenting in lobbying our colleagues. 

    Read Also: 10th NASS: Tinubu didn’t force Akpabio, Abass on us – Senator-elect

    “The intervention of the President, the Vice President and APC governors have drastically changed the narration for Akpabio. They have succeeded in calming frayed nerves. 

    “The selling points for Akpabio-Barau’s ticket are the need for national unity, integration and cohesion. We have tried to sway our colleagues from religious and ethnic sentiments from the other camp.” 

    Another source said:” While Goje was not too friendly, Aliero may stick to the position of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). We are all glad that Wammako has added value to Akpabio-Barau’s camp.” 

    A Senator-elect and the Turaki of Ilorin Emirate, Saliu Mustapha said Akpabio-Barau’s ticket will sail through. 

    He said  President Tinubu requires” a legislative arm of government that will support his efforts at stabilising and securing the country.”

    Mustapha added:” For national stability, we need Akpabio-Barau’s leadership. 

    “We are working round the clock for this ticket and so far, we are hopeful. “

    In a follow up statement by his media office, Mustapha said: “Our sure bet in terms of security and economic stability of this country is the Akpabio-Barau joint ticket in the Senate and Abbas-Kalu in the House of Representatives. 

    “One is therefore not surprised that the party has found them worthy of working together with the President to deliver on the party’s promises’ Mustapha said.

    He said the legislature does not have to be confrontational to be effective. 

    He said the country will be “governed better in an atmosphere of little and rancour between the arms of government as long as each arm is performing its role without let or hindrance from the other.” 

  • Tinubu will deliver dividends of democracy — Gbajabiamila

    Tinubu will deliver dividends of democracy — Gbajabiamila

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila has assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will deliver the dividends of democracy that they have been yearning for.

    In a message to mark this year’s Democracy Day, Gbajabiamila said it is worth celebrating because it is a unique milestone in the nation’s democratic journey with the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a thoroughbred democrat, who is noted for his tenacious defence of democracy.

     The message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi, on Sunday.

    Read Also: ‘How Gbajabiamila saved ASUU from proscription’

     The Speaker said that his joy stems from the fact that Nigerians are set to appreciate the true meaning of democracy because the President is a product of democracy.

      He described President Tinubu as someone who understands and appreciates the tenets of democracy and the value it brings to the table of the populace.

     He said as a true democrat who was involved in the struggle for the return of democracy to the country and who has finally assumed the position of authority, President Tinubu will not shy away from bringing to bear the dividends of democracy Nigerians have been yearning for.

  • June 12: Why we must defend our democracy, by Tinubu

    June 12: Why we must defend our democracy, by Tinubu

    • •Expect better deal from me
    • •Judicial reform has started
    • •Abiola’s sacrifice should not be in vain

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu this morning reminded Nigerians of the sacrifices made to attain democracy, saying everything must be done to defend it.

    In a 25-paragrah Democracy Day broadcast, aired on television and radio stations, he said the sacrifices made by the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the late Chief Moshood Abiola, and others, must not be in vain.

    The President also urged Nigerians to expect a better deal from his administration in the months to come.

    President Tinubu, who said Judicial reforms had begun in a bid to strengthen the rule of law, restated why petrol subsidy had to go.

    He said the subsidy mostly benefited a few people and was unsustainable.

    According to the President, democracy did not come on a platter, especially given the sacrifices of heroes of the June 12 struggle.

    President Tinubu said: “The abortion, by military fiat, of the decisive victory of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the June 12, 1993, presidential election, up to that time, the fairest and freest election in the country’s political evolution, turned out, ironically, to be the seed that germinated into the prolonged struggle that gave birth to the democracy we currently enjoy since 1999.

    “In rising to strongly oppose the arbitrary annulment of the will of the majority of Nigerians as expressed in that historic election, the substantial number of our people who participated in the struggle to de-annul the election signified their fierce commitment to enthroning democracy as a form of government that best ennobles the liberty, the dignity of the individual and the integrity as well as the stability of the polity. 

    “The fierce opposition to the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the unrelenting pro-democracy onslaught it unleashed were the equivalent of the battle against colonial rule by our founding fathers that resulted in the gaining of Nigeria’s independence in 1960.”

    The president added: “Every day, on this day, down the ages, we will recall the several other heroes of democracy such as Kudirat Abiola, wife of Chief Abiola, who was brutally murdered while in the trenches fighting on the side of the people. 

    “We remember Pa Alfred Rewane, one of the heroes of our independence struggle and Maj.- Gen. Shehu Musa Yar’Adua who were silenced by the military junta while in pursuit of democracy. They gave their yesterday for the liberty that is ours today.

    “The point is that we must never take this democracy for granted. We must forever jealously guard and protect it like a precious jewel. For, a people can never truly appreciate the freedoms and rights democracy guarantees them until they lose it.

    “We have traversed the dark, thorny path of dictatorship before and those who experienced it can readily testify to the unbridgeable gap between the dignity of freedom and the humiliation and degradation of tyranny. 

    “True, rancorous debates, interminable wrangling, ceaseless quarrels, bitter electoral contestations may be perceived by some as unattractive features of democracy. But they also testify to its merit and value,” he said.

    The President appealed to Nigerians to bear with his administration on its decision to implement the fuel subsidy removal.

    He pointed out that the decision would help Nigeria to preserve resources, which he said his administration would devote to other critical sectors for the public good.

    President Tinubu said: “To the winner of June 12, democracy offers the best chance to fight and eliminate poverty. Thirty years ago, he christened his campaign manifesto, ‘Farewell to Poverty’ because he was convinced that there is nothing divine about poverty. It is a man-made problem that can be eliminated with clearly thought-out social and economic policies.

    “It is for this reason that, in my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor-in-office to remove the fuel subsidy albatross and free up for collective use the much-needed resources, which had hitherto been pocketed by a few rich. 

    “I admit that the decision will impose extra burden on the masses of our people. I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements.

    “Painfully, I have asked you, my compatriots, to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country. For your trust and belief in us, I assure you that your sacrifice shall not be in vain. 

    “The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.

    “The democracy MKO Abiola died for is one that promotes the welfare of the people over the personal interests of the ruling class and one where the governed can find personal fulfilment and happiness. That is the hope MKO Abiola ignited throughout our country in 1993.

     The President also assured citizens that his administration would uphold the rule of law and protect democracy.

    “It is about the rule of law and vibrant judiciary that can be trusted to deliver justice and strengthen institutions. 

    Read Also: Babangida to politicians: use June 12 gains to deepen democracy

    “It has become imperative to state here that the unnecessary illegal orders used to truncate or abridge democracy will no longer be tolerated.

    “The recent harmonisation of the retirement age for judicial officers is meant to strengthen the rule of law, which is a critical pillar of democracy. The reform has just started,” he said.

    On the 2023 elections, President Tinubu said: “This year, we held the seventh in the cycle of elections that have become sacred rituals of our democratic practice in this dispensation since 1999.

    “That the polls were intensely contested is in itself positive evidence that democracy is well and alive in our land. It is only natural that even as those who won and experienced victory in the various elections are elated and fulfilled, those who lost are disenchanted and disappointed. 

    “But the beauty of democracy is that those who win today can lose tomorrow and those who lose today will have an opportunity to compete and win in the next round of elections.

    “Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory when it is their turn to triumph. Above all, those who disagree with the outcome of the elections are taking full advantage of the constitutional provisions to seek redress in court and that is one of the reasons why democracy is still the best form of government invented by man.

    “We shall be faithful to the truth. Faithful to equity. And faithful to justice. We shall exercise our authority and mandate to govern with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to always uphold the dignity of all our people.

    “On this note, I wish us all a happy Democracy Day celebration and pray that the light of liberty shall never be extinguished in our land.”

    Nigeria’s 24 years of unbroken Fourth Republic Democracy was watered by the struggle for actualisation of his June 12, 1993 mandate and death of winner of the election, Chief Abiola.

    The annulment of the famous poll won by the late business mogul, by Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, set Nigeria on political fire, leading to a five-year battle by pro-democracy politicians and activists for the actualisation of election results in the course of which Abiola and his wife Kudirat died. 

    There was also  a brutal suppression by military dictator, the late Gen. Sani Abacha, who booted out and replaced the puppet  Interim National Government (ING) installed by Gen. Babangida when he hastily left office.

    Gen. Abacha’s death, shortly after Abiola’s  brought into power Gen. Abdullsalami Abubakar in 1998.

    Gen. Abdullsalami supervised the transition programme that gave birth to the Fourth Republic in 1999.

  • Shettima’s last-minute push swings support for Akpabio, Abbas

    Shettima’s last-minute push swings support for Akpabio, Abbas

    • •Betera, Gagdi quit race •’We have 72 senators-elect with us’ •Yari’s group hopeful

    The coast appears clear for Tajudeen Abbas (Zaria Federal Constituency) Kaduna State to become Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives.

    Two major aspirants – Aliyu Muktar Betara (Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency) Borno State and Yusuf Adamu Gagdi (Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency) Plateau State – last night opted out of the Speaker’s race.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima continued their push for the All Progressives Congress (APC) preferred candidates for the National Assembly presiding officers at the weekend.

    Betara and Gagdi met with President and the Vice President. The meeting was attended by Niger State Governor Umar Bago, a member of the Ninth Assembly. After the meeting the two aspirants dropped out of contention.

    Shettima, in a house-to-house consultation to drum up support for Senator Godswill Akpabio/Barau Jibrin visited Senators Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Danjuma Godje (Gombe) and Adamu Aliero (Kebbi) yesterday, it was learnt.

    The trio are believed to be the bulwark of support for the aspiration of Senator-elect Abdulaziz Yari for Senate Presidency.

    It was also learnt that Wamakko, thereafter, agreed to back Akpabio.

    Aliero gave condition that he will take a decision along the line of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    After yesterday’s meeting with President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima, attended by House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, the Tajudeen Abbas/Benjamin Kalu media campaign team announced that Betara and Gagdi had stepped down from the race for Speaker. 

    The campaign team said: “It is worthy to note that Betara and Gagdi announced that they stepped down for Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas today, Sunday June 11, 2023 after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    “As of Sunday, June 11, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (PhD) has secured the endorsement of the overwhelming majority of members-elect across the eight political parties in the six geopolitical zones, and he is ready to compete on the floor of the House and take the mantle of leadership of the 10th House come Tuesday, June 13, 2023”.

    Wase, Sada, Jaji urged to drop ambition

    Shettima also called on other contenders in the race to follow the examples of their colleagues in the interest of the nation and the party.

    The vice president told reporters after the meeting the President Tinubu was pleased with the gesture of Betara and Gagdi, who placed party interest above their personal ambition.

    He said: “Right Honourable Betara and Right Honourable Gagdi, have graciously accepted to step down and endorse the candidature of Honourable Tajudeen Abbas for the Speakership of the Federal House of Representatives.

    “The President was quite touched by their gesture because what binds us together is superior to whatever divides us, we’re one big APC family and together we shall…

    Read Also: Tinubu, Shettima will take Nigeria to greater heights, says Betara

    “We cannot thank them enough for their graciousness and we want to commend the roles played by the chief of staff to the President, by His Excellency, the executive governor of Niger State, by the leadership of the party, here represented by the Deputy National Chairman.

    “I think our party members will breathe a sigh of relief, that with the two big elephants in the room, accepting to work as a collective, we believe that our house is in a very good shape.

    “We are good to go and we will call on other candidates; Right Honourable Wase, Honourable Sada and right Honourable Aminu Jaji, to also see reason and collapse their structures with the Abass/Ben so that as a family, we can forge a better future for our dear nation”, Shettima said.

    On Saturday night, 52 senators-elect attended a dinner at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.

    It was attended by Shettima and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume.

    The Stability Group announced that although 52 were at the dinner, the group’s membership is 72.

    Some opposition party lawmakers that attended the meeting include Senators Abba Moro (PDP), Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA) and Senator-elect Rufai Hamga (NNPP).

    Senators-elect, especially from the North, are said to be fed up with propaganda that the region is at the receiving end of power distribution by the Tinubu’s administration.

    Speaking at the dinner, Shettima said: “I am ready to beg my colleagues. I don’t want to mention their names but I am sure I will bring about five senators-elect from the other camp to join this group. 

    “My friend, Senator Ibrahim Geidam will give us all the Senators-elect from Yobe State. I am working on Taraba.

    “Let me leave it here, I don’t want to expose all my strategy. I will take your permission to leave now because I still have consultations to make this night.”

    The Vice-President also explained why President Tinubu chose Akpabio from Southsouth and a Christian as favoured candidate for Senate President.

    He recalled the demonisation which trailed the APC’s Muslim-Muslim Presidential ticket and submitted that the Akpabio-Jibrin ticket was to give Christians a sense of belonging and ultimately promote national cohesion.

    He added: “This gathering represents the Nigerian nation. Here we are with a Muslim President and Vice President in a multi-ethnic country like Nigeria.

    “Justice and equity demands that the number three person must be a Christian. We must strive for inclusivity. This is a young nation where every community will like to be given a sense of belong.

    “Politics is about perception, it is about optics. I want to appeal to you that the stability of the nation is greater than the stability of your pocket.

    “We are talking about the sustainability of the nation. The country is at a threshold.”

    Akume said: “This Forum appreciates the value of diversity. Diversity, if not well managed can lead to disaster. Societies have collapsed because they can’t manage diversity.

    “Your focus is stability of the polity. With the number I have seen today, this is the winning team. I wish you the best of luck on Tuesday”.

    Former Ebonyi State Governor and Senator-elect for Ebonyi South Senatorial District, Dave Umahi, told Senator Shettima that the Stability Group has 72 Senators-elect backing Akpabio who is the preferred candidate of the APC and the President.

    Senator Akpabio commended the Vice President and the SGF for associating with his Group by attending the dinner.

    He further explained that members of the Stability Group cut across party lines.

    “We will continue to bond together. This is a group of friends, brothers and sisters.

    “We have one thing in mind: Stability of Nigeria. We want to assure you that this is the way to go. I want to assure you, that we shall succeed on Tuesday,” Akpabio said.

  • Atiku, Obi seek transparent elections

    Atiku, Obi seek transparent elections

    Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, says for democracy in Nigeria to come of age, incumbent political officeholders must stop influencing election outcomes.

     In his Democracy Day message on Sunday, Atiku said political leaders must be committed to the principles of fairness in election conduct, to avoid a dictatorship society.

     The former PDP presidential candidate said his observation of how democracy is run in Nigeria has convinced him that “a lot of work still lies ahead”.

     “On this occasion of Democracy Day, it is time for us to reflect as a people and a country on our journey to becoming a democratic society.

     “For Nigerians who were around during the dark days of military dictatorships, it is important that we appreciate the successes that we have achieved in making democracy the norm of politics in Nigeria.”

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    Similarly, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to let the spirit of June 12, being celebrated as Democracy Day, inspire them to correct the “errors of February 25, 2023, as the surest root to restoring and deepening our democracy”.

     Obi in a Democracy Day message to Nigerians said: “The challenge of June 12 and a dedicated Democracy Day is to inspire us to correct the errors of our recent elections. He added: “This is the surest way to restore the confidence of our people in the future of our nation and the promise of true democracy.”

    He described June 12 as “a historic day that deserved to be celebrated, noting that “on that day in 1993, we the people of Nigeria stated our unreserved preference for true democracy.