Category: Lead

Since President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu returned from his 34-day vacation in France, he has played host to many stakeholders across party lines. During his two-day visit to Rivers State, he also gave hints about what his style of governance will be after his inauguration on May 29. Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU captures the public excitement about the imminence of a new dawn.

It is as if Nigeria has not elected a president before. The difference is clear. Before, during and after the historic February 25, 2023 poll, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Asiwaju of Lagos, and now, President-elect, has become the main issue in the politics of Africa’s most populous country.  Since his return to Nigeria after a 34-day vacation in France, all issues have revolved around him as the next Commander-in-Chief, key leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Caucus and statesman.

Tinubu has kept a busy schedule ahead of his inauguration on May 29. Attention has shifted from the outgoing leader, President Muhammadu Buhari, to the man of the moment, who is expected to steer the affairs of the country to the horizon of progress.

Exuding confidence ahead of the titanic contest, the astute politician, now fondly referred to as ‘City Boy’ by numerous admirers across the six geo-political zones, predicted his own victory.

Realistically assessing his chances in relation to other formidable competitors and pretenders, he declared in a voiced laced with characteristic humour: “Some may be running, but I don’t know where they are running to. But me, I am going to the Villa.”

When he jetted out of the country after receiving his certificate of return, various stakeholders missed him. For example, as aspirants for principal offices of the National Assembly unfolded their ambition, the national chairman of the ruling party, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, asked them to tarry a while.

Although Tinubu had clarified that he has no preferred candidates, prominent National Working Committee (NWC) members who appealed for caution to avoid heating up the party and the polity, insisted that they should wait for his return.

The former governor of Lagos has changed status.  He is now national property. The Defence Guest House, his temporary official residence, contrasts sharply with his Bourdillion, Ikoyi and Asokoro residences. New security aides are taking over the duty of protecting him.

Alighting from the aircraft on the day he returned to Nigeria, he looked refreshed; his dark skin was shining. Hale and hearty, Tinubu beamed with infectious smiles. His hands appeared from beneath his flowing agbada. Displaying the two-fingered victory sign, he waved at party stalwarts and other eminent Nigerians who welcomed him.

He walked briskly, bubbling with confidence. He shook hands with associates and embraced others warmly. Close aides would move close to whisper information into his ears, with the President-elect nodding affirmatively. On other occasions, he shook his head, almost swinging his neck, in disapproval.

As the synosure of all eyes, his actions generate interest. A man of commanding presence, he looks the more beautiful on the podium. Everything about him is presidential; his statements statesmanly, his gait regal.

Tinubu has sent a message across; he is fully prepared and governance under his leadership will not be a tea party.

More felicitations poured for him from world leaders and others who matter; captains of industry, leaders of commerce, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other groups.

Perceived by his party as the solution center, the National Chairman quickly led other party leaders to confer with him on the way out of the brewing crisis over zoning of the Senate President and Speaker of House of Representatives.

Other APC leaders on the national chairman’s entourage during the visit included Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji; Senators Godswill Akpabio, Jibrin Barau, Olamilekan Adeola aka Yayi, Opeyemi Bamidele, Emmanuel Bwacha, and Tokunbo Abiru; and James Faleke – federal legislator and Secretary of the dissolved APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC).

The outcome of the parley was unknown. But, sources said Tinubu was implored to take certain persuasive steps that will motivate some aspirants to jettison personal interest and uphold the interest of the party and the country.

As expected, various power centers are gravitating towards the President-elect for obvious reasons. While traffic to Aso Villa, Abuja, the seat of government where President Muhammadu Buhari calls the shots seems to be on the wane, it has doubled at Defence House.

Also, agenda setting has commenced. Scholars, researchers and other stakeholders have invaded the media with articles offering advice to Tinubu. Most of the commentaries merely re-echoed the line of thought articulated in his campaign blueprint.

In the spirit of the season, there is also intense lobbying for endorsement or support by federal lawmakers eyeing the positions of Senate President or House of Representatives Speaker. It also involves loyalists and other party chieftains eyeing positions in the proposed Federal Executive Council (FEC).

Reality has finally dawned on many skeptics that a new dawn is imminent; a democrat and charismatic politician is about to take the baton. Although, a few continue to bury themselves in illusion and fantasy. While in France, detractors went to town to misinform Nigerians that the President-elect has gone for medical leave. The falsehood soon collapsed like a pack of cards.

Populism

Tinubu, who got a rousing reception at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, dispelled the rumour, saying: “I am happy to be back. I have rested. I am refreshed and I am ready for the task ahead. Forget about what the rumour mill may have told you. I am strong, very strong.”

From the airport, over 150 vehicles, cars and buses conveying supporters accompanied the President-elect to his private residence in Asokoro, where he overruled security details by allowing many of the supporters into his compound.

Zoning and lobbying

Tinubu’s return has raised the tempo in the battle for the positions of Senate President and House Speaker. A day after returning from France, his residence became a beehive of activities.

Two leading aspirants – Senator Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom Northwest) and Senator Barau Jibrin (Kano Central) – came to lobby him for support.

Later, another aspirant, Osita Izunazo, senator-elect representing Imo West, arrived to present his Certificate of Return to him.

Other contenders said to be making overtures to Tinubu are are Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Senator Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara West), Senate President Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North) and Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi.

Akpabio, a former Minority Leader, told reporters after meeting with the President-elect that he had a bright chance.

He expressed confidence that he will succeed Dr. Lawan as Senate President, saying: “My records will earn me the Senate Presidency.”

House of Assembly member, Muktar Betara, who is itching to succeed Gbajabiamila, also met with the president.

Also, two weeks ago, Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by Chief Edwin Clark, called for the zoning of the Senate President to the South-South to foster inclusion and equity.

After inspecting Defence House, Tinubu held a crucial meeting with members of the APC NWC on zoning of the principal offices. At the meeting were Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima, Kwara State Governor AbdulRasak Abdulrahman, the Deputy National Chairman (North), Senator Abubakar Kyari, Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu and the National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore.

Arising from the meeting which lasted for two hours, an NWC member said: “Asiwaju and other leaders were here to inspect the facility, but seized the opportunity to have a meeting with the leadership of the NWC and NASS as regards zoning of the leadership of 10th National Assembly.”

Mobilising governors

Tinubu, who also received APC governors, charged them to maintain cohesion in the party.

Reflecting on the race for Senate President and Speaker, he said: “The challenge before us is working in unison with the party leadership and the National Assembly over the election of their principal officers. And I charge you to unite in spirit and faith and work in line with the party.”

The President-elect told the governors and former governorship candidates of the party that “whether you return or not, this is our government.”

At the parley, Tinubu expressed gratitude to God that he, “the first Muslim minority from the South-West got the blessing of Allah to be elected president.”

Dismissing speculations about his health, he said “all speculation have perished and their purveyors brought to shame.”

The Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) who is also the governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, led his colleagues to Tinubu’s residence. At the meeting were Governors Simon Lalong (Plateau), Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Aminu Bello Masari (Katsina), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa), Babajide Sanwo-olu (Lagos), Ben Ayade (CrossRivers), Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq (Kwara), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti).

There were also the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe and APC governorship candidate in Kano State, Alhaji Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna.

Bagudu said the visit was to congratulate Tinubu on the election, extend goodwill to him over the end of Ramadan Fast and welcome him back from his recent travel and celebrate with him.

He also said, however, that the governors were ready for any assignment the President-elect may give them.

On the election of presiding officers of the National Assembly, he pledged that the governors would continue to discuss and work with the party and the lawmakers to arrive at the best decision in the interest of the country.

Wike and Makinde

Two Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftains – Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and his Oyo counterpart, Seyi Makinde -also met with Tinubu in Abuja.

On the same day, Buhari had received Tinubu at Aso Villa, Abuja, seat of government, where both observed the Jumat service.

During the election, Tinubu won in Rivers and Oyo States. After the visit, Wike invited the President-elect to Port Harcourt to commission what he described as parts of his legacy projects – a flyover and a Magistrates Court complex.

After the meeting, Wike urged Nigerians to rally round Tinubu, saying that the time for politics is over. The statement meant that he didn’t believe in the case instituted by the presidential candidate of his party, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, against APC’s victory.

Wike said: “Elections have come and gone. The winner has emerged and therefore, it is necessary for all Nigerians to give him the necessary support in the interest of Nigeria. I am confident that he has what it takes to turn Nigeria around.”

Bello’s, Adodo’s, Akume’s, Alia’s visits

Also, last week, Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, led the state APC governorship candidate, Alhaji Usman Adodo, to Tinubu for endorsement. Backing him, Tinubu raised the gubernatorial flagbearer’s hand.

On the same day, Benue State Governor-elect, Rev Father Hyacinth Alia, was led to Tinubu by his friend and compatriot, Minister of Special Duties, Senator George Akume, to present his Certificate of Return.

Last Sunday, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, accompanied by an elder from the state, Mallam Musa Kubo, visited the President-elect in Lagos.

Tinubu in Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt stood still for the Jagaban Borgu for two days. A public holiday was declared by his host, Wike, who led him and his entourage to the commissioning of the flyover and Magistrate Court complex.

There was excitement as the aircraft conveying the President-elect landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, around 10 am. He was accompanied by the House Speaker Gbajabiamila, Governors Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa), David Umahi (Ebonyi), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Seyi Makinde (Oyo) and Hope Uzodinma (Imo).

Former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande – the pioneer national Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) equally accompanied president-elect.

Also at the ceremony were former Governors Chief James Ibori (Delta), Fayemi (Ekiti), Chief Timipre Sylva (Bayelsa), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), and Ayo Fayose (Ekiti).

Others include Rivers State Governor-elect Sim Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, one-time Lagos State Information and Strategy Commissioner, Dele Alake, former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Bello Adoke, and chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), Kashim Ibrahim Imam.

Traditional rulers, captains of industryand religious leaders also witnessed the ceremonies.

Also in attendance were all 23 local government chairmen in Rivers State who added colour to the event.

It was like a presidential visit. The airport road was decorated with various posters, banners and flyers. Many trooped out to catch a glimpse of Tinubu, who received majority votes from the state during the poll.

Alighting from the plane, the president-elect waved at the crowd, which erupted in jubilation as shouts of ‘Jagaban’ filled the air.

The venue instantly became congested. Security agents had a hectic time controlling the crowd.

An elated Tinubu thanked Wike and the people of Rivers State for their support for him.

He addressed the nation from Port Harcourt. His speech inspired hope and confidence about the dawn of a new era.

Conscious of the weight of responsibilities, he gave a hint about what will be his style of governance after his inauguration on May 29.

Tinubu promised to enthrone a government of equity, fairness and justice, which will mobilise Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity and religion, for the tasks of development.

He ruled out the marginalisation of any zone, assuring that he would work with every component unit for public good.

“I will not marginalise any region, but will leave legacy projects across the length and breadth of Nigeria,” he reiterated.

Tinubu also promised to unite the country, saying national unity is non-negotiable. He stressed: “I promise Nigerians, the unity of this country is not negotiable. That is what Wike and I are promoting jointly. I promise I will be fair to all.”

The President-elect praised Wike for his development strides, particularly for the 12 flyovers constructed across the capital city, saying posterity would be kind to him.

He said with his accomplishments, Nigeria would need the outgoing Rivers governor in higher capacities.

The President-elect reflected on the hurdles he crossed at the primary and general election, praising Wike snd his G-5 colleagues for their principled position on zoning, rotation and power shift to the South.

Tinubu, who publicly acknowledged Wike’s contribution to his victory at the poll, said as the leader of G-5 Governors, his actions and utterances promoted the virtues of fairness, justice and unity. In his view, Wike is a courageous and dependable ally, a man of integrity who is offering selfless leadership.

He said: “Nyesom, I say thank you for your contributions to my victory. I couldn’t have done it without some structural support. In his Excellency (Wike), I see a man of principle. He took a principled stand that the Presidency must return to South.

“And he has the courage to stand by his conviction not minding whose ox is gored. He is indeed, a man of great integrity. He did not choose to serve his own interest, rather the interest of the nation. You promoted unity. You promoted fairness. You championed justice. There was so much gossip and speculation. But you stood your ground.”

Tinubu said Wike should look forward to a new pastime, which is dialogue on ‘Project Nigeria’.

He would revisit this theme last Friday on the anniversary of the death of former President Umaru Yar’Adua whose governance legacy he promised to emulate. The late president was noted for his reforms, reaching a truce with Niger Delta militants and respect for the rule of law. He was widely viewed as a very decent human being.

The President-elect also commended Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for partnering with Wike.

Seized by nostalgia, he also extolled the virtues of a former Rivers Governor, Peter Odili, whom he described as a “dear brother, friend, colleague, a developer of human beings and a man of integrity.

Wike set an agenda on intergovernmental relations for Tinubu. He said the Federal Government should refund the money spent on construction of federal roads in states. 

Wike drew the attention of the Federal Government to the need to amend its procurement law to end incessant abandonment of projects.

He said that the current procurement law only allowed for about 15/30 percent to be paid as mobilisation fee to a contractor.

On the federal roads constructed by Rivers, Wike said:“I can assure you that as you enter office and you approve to pay this money back, other states will have the courage to also do the same thing. It is not a laughing matter. I am not asking what we are not entitled to. That is one thing my successor, the day he is entering office on May 29, a letter had been prepared for him he will sign that day and forward to you since you will also be sworn in on May 29th. That is the first request we are making”.

Judicial reforms

During the commissioning of the Magistrate Court complex, Tinubu hinted about judicial reforms aimed at strengthening the third arm of government in its bid to resist and fight corruption.

It was reminiscent of his days as governor when he initiated such reforms in the judicial sector.

He said judges will be entitled to an enhanced welfare package, adding that they should never live in abject poverty and squalor.

“This is the way to fight corruption. You don’t expect your judges to live in squalor, to operate in squalor to dispense justice in squalor. This is part of the changes necessary in our policy think-tank,” he stressed.

“We must fight corruption and we definitely must look at the other side of the coin. If you don’t want your judges to be corrupt, you have got to pay attention to their welfare. If you want fair dispensation justice, you don’t want them to operate in hazardous condition. Let’s think value for value.”

Wike on Executive/Legislative collaboration

At the banquet in his honour, Wike urged federal lawmakers-elect to support the incoming administration. Tinubu was elated because federal lawmakers across party lines attended the dinner.  He described it as bridge building; the act of speaking different languages of unity, and building of solidarity.

Wike advised those plotting mischief in a bid to make Nigeria ungovernable to have a rethink in the national interest. He said since Nigerians only desire good governance, Tinubu had the capacity to translate their dream into reality.

The governor cautioned against any attempt to undermine the incoming administration. To the senators and House of Representatives members-elect, particularly the opposition caucus, he said: “It is not to begin to set trap on how the President-elect will fail. If he fails, you have failed. So, we hold a duty to give him support, and that support should start from the leadership of the National. Give him that support.”

If the parliament collaborates with the next president to churn out policies and programmes that will stimulate development, the governor said Nigeria will prosper.

Wike added: “All of you have come here, members of the House of Representatives and senators. Check yourself. Are you going to work for the interest of Nigeria? If you are going to work for the interest of Nigeria? If you are going to work for the interest of Nigeria, then, give support so that you will not have crisis from the beginning. “

• Why smaller planes are sent to evacuate students in Port Sudan — FG

No fewer than 131 stranded Nigerian evacuees arrived in the country yesterday.

The Tarco Airline plane B737-300 that conveyed the third batch of returnee touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja 1.45pm.

This brings to 637 the number of evacuees airlifted back to Nigeria since the country started airlifting on Wednesday.

The first batch of 376 were airlifted on Wednesday by Air Peace and Nigerian Airforce plane, C 130 while the second batch of 130 comprising  99% females were airlifted by a Sudanese aircraft, Taco on Friday.

The first batch were airlifted from Egypt while the second batch came in from Port Sudan.

The 3rd batch was also from Port Sudan.

The Federal Government yesterday explained its challenges in sending bigger planes to evacuate stranded Nigerians from Sudan.

This is as the government also promised to take the returnees through trauma counselling.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management of Social Development, Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo said only smaller planes can land in Port Sudan for now.

Sani-Gwarzo, however, said efforts were still on to get permit  from the Sudanese government and other neighbouring countries so as to send bigger planes.

He spoke yesterday shortly after receiving the third batch of 131 stranded Nigerians from Port Sudan.

Speaking at the reception for evacuees, Sani-Gwarzo also gave the assurance that more planes will be going to Sudan.

He said, “More aircrafts will go. Our limitation has not been the ability to send aircraft but the fact that large-bodied aircraft cannot go to Port Sudan at the moment except smaller ones, otherwise, you would have seen about 500 at a go but we are still working with the Sudanese government and those countries along the route to make sure that large-bodied aircraft can go. With that, I assure you in less than 24 hours, we will finish the evacuation.”

On those who are sick, he said: “There are three people that are sick, I  just interacted with them and we are taking them to the hospital. One has  a wound in his hand and two others have severe abdominal pain due to ulcer.

“We sent them to the hospital not because their condition is bad but we want maximum best for them. From the hospital, they will proceed home because they look stable but we don’t want to take any chance.”

On his part, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mustapha Ahmed said the action to bring women, children and the sick was deliberate.

He hinted that about 800 students will be airlifted from Aswan tomorrow.

He said: “We have aircraft on the ground as we speak, two are in Aswan and our people are on their way to the airport, So hopefully, they will take off tomorrow morning and by tomorrow afternoon or evening, we will receive a large batch of almost 800 students.

“For Port Sudan, we will continue with the evacuation. TARCO is going back, Azman is going to do back to back because of its 400 seater capacity and we have already started engaging Air Peace to go back because of the 274-seater capacity.”

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa disclosed that the returnees would undergo trauma counselling.

She said: “There will be trauma counselling for all the returnees because they have gone through a lot of trauma. Watch out for information on various websites of the emergency team on various counselling for everyone. We are talking to Dangote and some other NGOs about that.”

She also expressed joy that the process had  commenced.

Dabiri-Erewa also reiterated the promise that no single Nigerian would be left behind.

She said, ” It is not over, until it is over. Another batch is coming tomorrow. Thank God the tension is less now, and one thing is certain, no one would be left behind. Unfortunately, some people put a tribal colouration to all these issues. You can see, the mission wanted them to be orderly, and priority was given to women and children. If a man jumps through the window and comes out to say oh because I am from this ethnic group, I think that is most uncharitable.

But nobody will be left behind.”

She also re-emphasised that the directive from the ministry of Foreign Affairs is that priority be given to women in the ongoing exercise.

” So, another is coming tomorrow and NEMA is trying to get a landing permit for Air Peace to also go to Port Sudan because it’s only Tarco Airline that can fly from Port Sudan, being an old airline.

“So, we are trying to see if Air Peace can get a landing permit. NEMA is working on it. That would make it a bit faster.

“And again, I want to thank all that supported the Federal Government, Air Peace, Mr. Onyema, we thank you very much. Dangote Foundation, we thank you very much. MTN, for giving sim cards. We have always done it with MTN since South Africa evacuation, thank you very much. Azman, Max Air, thank you very much.”

On the situation with Wadi Halfa camp, she said, “there were situations. You see, Egypt is very strict with their laws. If you have more than one person, they would not carry everybody.

“There were situations where the figures did not tally. They said there were two people they were looking for.

“So, it is a war situation and it is a bit complicated. I just want to appeal to our people there to just be patient, follow the rules, you will be home.

“Cairo is strict, so just follow the rules as they have given us. The most important thing is to come back and everybody will come back.”

Master Deen Shittu, a returnee and a 400-level medical student at the Al-Fajir College of Science and Technology, Khartoum, Sudan, expressed happiness for their safe return.

“What we faced was a very bad experience, I can say that war is not an option and I do not pray we face that in Nigeria.

“It was difficult to eat, I also drank water that was bad which I know would hurt me health-wise, but there was nothing I could do.

“But I hope to go back when peace returns to the country to complete my education because I do not know where to start.

“Though if I get a university in Nigeria that would accept me in the same level and the same course, I would remain here,” he said.

Sudan paramilitary RSF to attend Jeddah talks with armed forces

Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister says envoys from Sudan’s warring military factions – the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces – were in Jeddah for talks on Saturday. 

This is as international mediators pressed for an end to the three-week-old conflict.

The U.S.-Saudi initiative is the first serious attempt to end fighting that has turned parts of the Sudanese capital Khartoum into war zones and derailed an internationally backed plan to usher in civilian rule following years of unrest and uprisings.

Riyadh and Washington earlier welcomed the “pre-negotiation talks” between the army and the RSF and urged them to actively engage following numerous violated ceasefires.

But both sides have made it clear they would only discuss a humanitarian truce, not negotiate an end to the war.

Confirming his group’s attendance, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti, said he hoped the talks would achieve their intended aim of securing safe passage for civilians.

Sudan’s armed forces said they sent a delegation to the Red Sea city on Friday evening, but special envoy Dafallah Alhaj said the army would not sit down directly with any delegation that the “rebellious” RSF might send.

Hemedti has meanwhile vowed to either capture or kill army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and there was also evidence on the ground that both sides remain unwilling to make compromises to end the bloodshed.

Saudi foreign minister Faisal bin Farhan said in a tweet he hoped both sides would “engage in dialogue that we hope will lead to the end of the conflict”.

In the city of Bahri across the Nile from Khartoum, warplanes were heard overnight and explosions startled residents.

“We don’t leave the house because we’re scared of stray bullets,” said a resident who gave his name as Ahmed.

An eyewitness in Eastern Khartoum reported gun clashes and air strikes over residential areas on Saturday.

The Turkish ambassador’s car also came under fire from unknown assailants, a Turkish diplomatic source said. The envoy was safe inside the embassy.

Turkey’s foreign minister said Turkey would move its embassy from Khartoum to Port Sudan following the attack.

Both the RSF and the army accused each other of being behind the attack.

The conflict erupted on April 15, following the collapse of an internationally backed plan for a transition to democracy.

Burhan, a career army officer, heads a ruling council installed after the 2019 ouster of long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir and a 2021 military coup, while Hemedti, a former militia leader who made his name in the Darfur conflict, is his deputy.

Prior to the fighting, Hemedti had been taking steps like moving closer to a civilian coalition that indicated he had political plans.

Burhan has blamed the war on his “ambitions.”

Western powers have backed the transition to a civilian government in a country that sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and Africa’s volatile Sahel region.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan was travelling to Saudi Arabia at the weekend for talks with Saudi leaders.

Saudi Arabia has had close ties to Burhan and Hemedti, both of whom sent troops to help the Saudi-led coalition in its war against the Houthi group in Yemen.

– Ruling party leaders favour Abbas for Speaker, Kalu for Deputy Speaker

– Gagdi, Betara, others press on with aspiration

The decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to adopt consensus in picking its candidates for the leadership of the 10th National Assembly may have upset moves by the opposition parties to hijack the process of installing the legislative heads.

President-elect Bola Tinubu; the party’s National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu; Deputy National Chairman (North) Senator Abubakar Kyari; Deputy National Chairman (South) Chief Emma Enukwu; and the National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, at a meeting in Abuja on Friday resolved to endorse former Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio as the party’s candidate for the Senate Presidency and Dr. Tajudeen Abbas as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Also at the meeting were the incumbent Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, current House of Reps Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege

Alhaji Jibrin Barau was penciled down as Deputy Senate President and Benjamin Kalu as Deputy Speaker of the House of Reps.

However, opposition parties led by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which had expected the APC to approach the election of the NASS officials as a divided house and planned to cash in on the situation to install their own candidates, are now shocked at the turn of events.

Their spokesmen reacted furiously to the APC move yesterday, declaring that they were not bound by the party’s decision.

But some other members of the opposition parties told The Nation yesterday that with the APC pre-emptive moves and the declaration by Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike that lawmakers from his state would not be part of any plot to deny the APC the opportunity of  controlling the legislature, it would be difficult for PDP and its allies in the National Assembly to stop the ruling party.

Rising from a meeting in Abuja yesterday, some House of Representatives members-elect from the PDP, Labour Party (LP) and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) vowed that they would not respect the decision of the APC on who becomes what in the Green Chambers.

Their spokesman, Peter Akpanke (Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwara) named their own candidate as Aliyu Betara (APC, Biu/Bayo/Shani and Kwaya Kusar in Borno State).

Some APC members were at the meeting.

He said: ”All of us are not members of APC, so whatever they decide cannot be binding on us. That is their party’s decision.

“So if they can convince their members, that’s good for them. But they don’t have the numbers.

“We, the minority members are more. They need us to be able to produce the speaker.

“By the way, will all members of the APC even support the party’s decision?

“Those of us in NASS want to support a speaker who is our own; a speaker who will defend democracy, someone who will protect the interests of members and help us deliver the dividends of democracy.”

Some opposition party members however are not persuaded by Akpanke’s view.

One of them said: ”We need to have the votes of at least 10 dissatisfied APC lawmakers for us to topple the ruling party on June 13. With the way the consensus thing is widely being accepted, that is looking pretty difficult to bank on as we go on.

“Also, of recent, more and more opposition members-elect are declaring their stance, saying they will not work against the decision of the leadership of the ruling APC.

“Many of them, like myself, are from the PDP, the leading opposition party driving the plot. They are listening to the dictates of their godfathers back home and it will be difficult to make them do otherwise.

“Some are already identifying with APC aspirants publicly.”

Another source said  though members of the coalition continue to  meet regularly on how to stop the APC, many of them have  already lost interest in putting opposition party men in legislative leadership positions.

The source added: “A good example is the Joint Task under the leadership of Hon. Chinda, leader of the PDP caucus in the Hous, and Hon. Bello Kumo, Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs.

“The group has many members from PDP and other opposition party. They are being lured by the belief that APC will ensure consensus and as such, defeat any opposition easily.

“Most PDP members from the South are committed to the group.”

An APC source said: “APC members will not vote against the party’s choices. That will not happen.

“The party has made it clear anti-party activities will be severely dealt with and our members-elect understand what that means, especially with the party strongly united behind President-elect Bola Tinubu.”

Tinubu needs someone like me as Speaker to succeed as president, by Gagdi

An aspirant for the position of Speaker House of Representatives Usman Gagdi formally declared his ambition yesterday, saying Tinubu’s success as President would depend on having right thinking presiding officers of the National Assembly who share his vision for the country.

Gagdi, 41, said he deserved an endorsement for Speaker as the youngest aspirant in the race, adding that the move will foster youth inclusion in the next administration.

“I am confident that our President-elect, a talent hunter, will take Nigeria to the promise land. I have the confidence that he will want me as partner,” he said in Abuja.

“Tinubu can transform Nigeria into a world class economy only if he is supported by those who mean well.”

He said the APC leadership should zone the office to the Northcentral and adopt him as candidate.

Gagdi, former Deputy Speaker of Plateau State House of Assembly, described himself as an experienced and competent lawmaker who initiated 20 bills, six of which were assented to by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Jibrin, Umahi, Ndume boost Akpabio’s chances

Observers said yesterday that Akpabio’s move to team up with Kano North Senator Jibrin Barau has gone a long way in paving the way for him to become Senate President.

Barau was one of the first Senators to declare interest in the position and appeared to be enjoying the backing of many of his colleagues until he was persuaded to step down for a Southern Christian.

Moments after the APC leadership endorsed Akpabio’s candidature on Friday, Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi, who was also interested in the office, announced that he had stepped down for the former Niger Delta Affairs Minister.

“My brother (Akpabio) came to consult with me. Yesterday (Thursday), I saw the president-elect on his invitation and he told me that he is already committed, and that please ‘don’t run’. I accepted and stepped down for my brother, Senator Akpabio,” Umahi told reporters.

“He is my consensus candidate. I also step down for him as the deputy Senate president.”

Akpabio’s campaign is being led by one of the longest serving Senators, Ali Ndume, Borno South, who said on Friday: ”I am leading the campaign for Akpabio because he is the president’s preferred candidate and we have to put the interest of the country, the party, above any other interest.”

Why PDP Senators may not vote Akpabio

Some PDP Senators-elect are also said to be against the candidature of Akpabio as the next Senate President.

Their grouse with him is that he dumped their party, which chose him as minority whip, to join the APC.

A source said: ”Without any just cause, he abandoned the PDP midstream and joined APC. He was rewarded with a ministerial position.

“We can’t trust such a person as Senate President.”

Zamfara West Senator-elect, Abdul’Aziz Yari, who was elected on the platform of the APC, is also said to be pressing ahead with his campaign to contest the Senate Presidency.

The former member of the House of Representatives described the contest as Senators’ business and not based on instructions from anyone.

Tajudeen Abass, who is being tipped for the Speaker House of Representatives, is the current Chairman, House Committee on Land Transport. He represents Zaria, Kaduna State.

Benjamin Kalu (Bende, Abia State) who is vying for the post of Deputy Speaker, is a third term ranking member of the House.

He is the current spokesman for the House.

• Police arrest scores of anti-monarchy protesters
• Tinubu: I look forward to further engagements with you

A gathering of about 100 world leaders and a television audience of millions across the world watched in awe yesterday as King Charles III was crowned in Britain’s biggest ceremonial event for seven decades; a  sumptuous display of pageantry dating back 1,000 years.

An estimated crowd of 2 million others massed on the streets of a rainy London after the historic first coronation in Britain since 1953.

But it was not all cheers across the country as the police smashed a rally by anti-monarchy protesters who were calling for the abrogation of the throne.

The protesters’ van full of ‘Not My King’ banners was scoured by the police.

Human Rights Watch described the arrest as incredibly alarming.

“This is something you would expect to see in Moscow not London,” it said in a statement in London.

President-elect Bola Tinubu expressed his desire for further engagements between Nigeria and Britain in the years ahead.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual leader of the Anglican Church, placed the 360-year-old St Edward’s Crown on Charles’ head as he sat upon a 14th Century throne in Westminster Abbey.

The historic and solemn event dates back to the time of the 74-year-old’s predecessor William the Conqueror in 1066.

Charles’ second wife Camilla, 75, was also crowned queen during the two-hour ceremony, which while rooted in history, was also an attempt to present a forward-looking monarchy, with those involved in the service reflecting a more diverse Britain and leaders from all faiths.

For a nation struggling to find its way in the political maelstrom after its exit from the European Union and maintain its standing in a new world order, its supporters say the royal family provides an international draw, a vital diplomatic tool, and a means of staying on the world stage.

“No other country could put on such a dazzling display – the processions, the pageantry, the ceremonies, and street parties,” Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said.

Despite Sunak’s enthusiasm, the coronation took place amid a cost of living crisis and public scepticism, particularly among the young, about the role and relevance of the monarchy.

Yesterday’s event was on a smaller scale than the one staged for Queen Elizabeth in 1953 but was no less  spectacular, featuring an array of historical regalia from golden orbs and bejewelled swords to a sceptre holding the world’s largest colourless cut diamond.

While the coronation was not essential, it was regarded as a means to legitimise the monarch in a public way.

The king and queen left Buckingham Palace for the abbey in the modern Black Diamond State Jubilee Coach accompanied by cavalrymen wearing shining breastplates and plumed helmets.

Hundreds of soldiers in scarlet uniforms and black bearskin hats lined the route along The Mall, the grand boulevard to Buckingham Palace. Tens of thousands ignored the light rain to mass in a crowd more than 20 deep in some places to watch what some saw as a moment of history.

“The split-second glance of seeing the king is really important but I think the whole day as well … the idea of the nation coming together.

“You very much feel the pride in the nation,” said Mark Strasshine after the royal coach went by.

Police arrest ‘Not My King’ protesters

Hundreds of republicans booed and waved banners reading “Not My King”.

The protesters, who were in yellow and waved placards, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with royal fans bedecked in Union flags as thousands of people lined the procession route.

As the ranks of the protesters swelled, the chants of ‘Not My King’ rang round the streets.

The chants elicited boos and rivaling chants of ‘God Save the King’ from supporters of the crown.

In no time, the police descended on the protesters after warning they would have an ‘extremely low threshold’ in dealing with anyone who tried to disrupt the day.

Some of the protesters were soon arrested and their van which was filled with ‘Not My King’ banners scoured.

One of those arrested was a defiant royalist shouting ‘He is My King’.

He was detained for allegedly throwing an object.

More than 11,000 policemen were deployed to ensure order

The Republic campaign group said its leader, Graham Smith, had been arrested along with five other protesters.

Lawmaker Clive Lewis, who was among the anti-monarchy protesters, said: “It is an unequal and out-of-date system because it has a hereditary billionaire individual born into wealth and privilege who basically symbolises the inequality of wealth and power in our society.”

The Metropolitan Police said a number of arrests had been made and the individuals were being held “on suspicion of breaching the peace.”

“Earlier today we arrested four people in the area of St Martin’s Lane. They were held on suspicion of conspiracy to cause public nuisance. We seized lock-on devices,” it said in a tweet.

“A further three people were arrested in the area of Wellington Arch. They were held on suspicion of possessing articles to cause criminal damage. There will be further updates later today.”

The Daily Mail One reported that a video showed members of the public quizzing police on why Republic members had been arrested, with an officer saying: “I’m not going to get into a conversation about that – they are under arrest, end of.”

Human rights activist Peter Tatchell told Yahoo: “The police broke their promise that peaceful anti-monarchy protests would be permitted.

“They arrested the head of Republic and other protesters, confiscated Republic’s official placards, photographed everyone and erected a huge watchtower in front of the Republic protest so the king would not see us.

“It’s an outrageous abuse of police powers and an attack of freedom of expression. This just reconfirms that the police cannot be trusted.”

However, not everyone was against police taking action against protesters. Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson tweeted: “Not My King? If you do not wish to live in a country that has a monarchy the solution is not to turn up with your silly boards. The solution is to emigrate.”

Inside the abbey, bedecked with flowers and flags, politicians and representatives from Commonwealth nations including President Muhammadu Buhari took their seats alongside charity workers and celebrities, including actors Emma Thompson, Maggie Smith, Judi Dench and U.S. singer Katy Perry.

Much of the ceremony featured elements that Charles’ forebears right back to King Edgar in 973 would recognise, officials said. Handel’s coronation anthem “Zadok The Priest” was sung as it has been at every coronation since 1727.

But there was also the new, including an anthem composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, famed for his West End and Broadway theatre shows, and a gospel choir.

Charles’ grandson Prince George and the grandchildren of Camilla acted as pages.

However, there was no formal role for either Charles’ younger son Prince Harry, after his high-profile falling out with his family, or his brother Prince Andrew, who was forced to quit royal duties because of his friendship with late U.S. financier Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

They sat in the third row behind working members of the royal family.

Charles looked serious as he swore oaths to govern justly and uphold the Church of England – of which he is the titular head – before the most sacred part of the ceremony when he was anointed on his hands, head, and breast by Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby with holy oil consecrated in Jerusalem.

After being presented with symbolic regalia, Welby placed the St Edward’s Crown on his head and the congregation cried out “God save the King”.

After the service, Charles and Camilla departed in the four-tonne Gold State Coach built for George III, the last king of Britain’s American colonies, riding to Buckingham Palace in a one-mile procession of 4,000 military personnel from 39 nations.

It is the largest show of its kind in Britain since the coronation of Charles’ mother.

“When you see everyone dressed up and taking part it is just fantastic. It makes you so proud,” said teacher Andy Mitchell, 63, who left his house in the early hours to get into London.

“My big concern is that younger people are losing interest in all of this and it won’t be the same in the future.” 

Tinubu writes Charles, seeks further engagements between Nigeria, Britain 

President-elect Bola Tinubu, in a congratulatory letter to King Charles 111 yesterday, expressed the desire for further engagements between Nigeria and Britain in the years ahead.

He said: “It is heartwarming that your ascension to the throne is coming after the 70-year-reign of your iconic mother, Queen Elizabeth II, whose death last September left the entire world in grief, given her eventful reign.

“Bearing your unique place in history as the first King to be inaugurated in Britain since 1937, I trust that you will follow in the glorious footsteps of your late mother and even surpass her achievements in United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.

“Particularly remarkable about you is your love for the environment, importantly your lifelong crusade for sustainability and biodiversity.

“I hope that you will continue to push for these initiatives with kind eyes on the situation and plight of the under-privileged people in Africa and around the world.

“As the President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I also hope that during your reign, the excellent bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Britain will continue and even become stronger in the interests of our two countries.

“I look forward to further engagements with you and the opportunity of a meeting in the nearest future as both of us had earlier indicated in discussions with mutual friends and associates.”

He prayed that God might grant the king strength and wisdom and “make your reign successful for the benefit of not only the people of the Great Britain, but for the entire world.”