The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • 2027: Atiku’s candidacy won’t destroy PDP but anti-party activities – Segun Adewale

    2027: Atiku’s candidacy won’t destroy PDP but anti-party activities – Segun Adewale

    Former Lagos State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Otunba Segun Adewale, has dismissed concerns that the candidacy of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could harm the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.

    Adewale, popularly known as Aeroland, made this assertion during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

    He was reacting to a recent statement by Chief Olabode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, who claimed that Atiku’s ambition would be detrimental to the party’s future.

    Atiku was the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, where he emerged second behind President Bola Tinubu.

    Adewale countered George’s remarks, saying, “No one should claim that Atiku’s 2027 candidacy will destroy the PDP. What truly threatens the party are the anti-party activities of some of its leaders during elections.”

    He said: “Atiku has been contributing to the party for years. 

    “Atiku would have won in the 2023 presidential election if not because of the anti party activities of some people.  

    “Anti-party activities are what led the PDP to where it is today, where people are suffering. PDP would have been in power after 2023 election.

    “They (some party leaders) made sure that the PDP votes were divided in Lagos and other states. That’s why PDP lost that election.”

    He said that the party leadership should rather focus on curbing anti-party activities among leaders instead of attacking Abubakar’s candidacy.

    The chieftain said that the party should take a firm stand against those destroying the party through their actions and inactions.

    “Some PDP leaders should be ashamed of themselves, especially those working for the opposition openly and without looking backward in every election.

    “These are activities that slim down our chances and destroyed the party in Lagos State and at the national level in all electoral cycles since 2015.

    “If Atiku’s candidacy will destroy the PDP, what do we say of party leaders who openly tell PDP members to vote opposition? Will that build or brighten the our chances?

    “We must address the substance and stop chasing shadow, ” the chieftain said.

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    According to him, some leaders are always fighting PDP candidates, coming out forcibly against them in every election.

    “We should rather concentrate on those in the party but working for the opposition. This anti-party is our problem not Atiku’s candidacy,” he said.

    Adewale said that George should stop speaking as if he was the voice of Lagos PDP.

    “Bode George’s comment that Atiku, a PDP chieftain getting the party’s ticket in 2027 will be a downfall of the party, is not true,” Adewale said.

    NAN recalls that George has on Monday, on Channels Television’s Politics Today said that PDP would meet its end if Abubakar secured the party’s 2027 presidential ticket. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Anambra poll and the significance of Ukachukwu’s candidature

    Anambra poll and the significance of Ukachukwu’s candidature

    • By Chekwube Nzomiwu

    The emergence of billionaire businessman, estate mogul, philanthropist and former federal lawmaker, Prince Hon. Nicholas Ukachukwu, as the standard bearer of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for the November 8, 2025  Anambra State governorship election is not only significant for Anambra politics but also for the ruling party at the federal level. Why did I say so? Often it is said that democracy is a game of numbers. However, numbers have significantly not counted during elections in Anambra state since the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) came to power in the state in March 2006.

    For instance, the incumbent APGA Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, secured his mandate in November 2021 with 112,000 out of the 2.5 million registered voters in the state at that time. What it means is that Soludo is governing the state today with the mandate given to him by a paltry 4.5 percent of the eligible voters in the state. 

    Although some people may argue that voter apathy is an issue in the entire country, the situation in Anambra has been worsened by the prolonged non-conduct of local government election by successive APGA governors, thereby stifling democracy at the grassroots. Before Governor Soludo conducted council polls last September after two years in office, there was no local government election in the state for more than 20 years.

    However, with the emergence of Ukachukwu, a political field marshal as the candidate of APC, the federal party, there is hope that numbers will count significantly in the coming Anambra governorship election. This is the first time that a political field marshal would be running as the governorship candidate of a federal party since APGA came to power in Anambra State in 2006.

    The other political field marshal in Anambra state, late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah never had the opportunity of running on the platform of a federal party. Hence, it was easy for APGA to contain Ubah on the two occasions that he contested for the governorship, in spite of his grassroots support base and war chest. Ubah, however, got a consolation prize in the Anambra South senatorial seat. 

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    Until Ubah’s untimely death last year, he had one thing in common with Ukachukwu. Both men established organic grassroots political structures, unlike most of their contemporaries in the state who rode on the back of political godfathers or the church, to ascend to power. But unlike Ubah who joined politics in Anambra state much later in 2013, Ukachukwu is an old warhorse. In fact, the only time they clashed in a senatorial election, Ukachukwu lost as the APGA candidate because wolves within the party sabotaged him.    

    The exploits of the “Ikuku oma” structure in Anambra politics dated back to the 2003 Anambra South senatorial election. He won a landslide victory in the senatorial election and was preparing for his inauguration as a Senator when the unscrupulous Resident Electoral Commissioner in Anambra state cancelled his victory and announced Senator Ugochukwu Uba who did not contest the election as the winner.

    Ukachukwu approached the Election Petition tribunal in Awka and reclaimed his mandate. He suffered another setback in the hands of a three-man jury of the Court of Appeal in Enugu who robbed him of his victory under questionable circumstances. His petition to the National Judicial Council (NJC) led to the dismissal of two out of the three members of the Appeal Court panel that handled the case.

    After his setback in PDP, he ran for the governorship on the platform of the Hope Democratic Party (HDP), before teaming up with APGA where he remained until recently when he joined the APC. As of today, APGA has not recovered from his exit because many members of the party moved with him to APC.

    Being a political field marshal, his candidature has put the federal party in a very strong position for the first time as a leading contender for the Anambra governorship seat. Before now, Anambra state is one of the two states in the South East that APC has performed abysmally since its formation in 2013, the other being Enugu state.

    The poor performance of the federal party in these two South East states has been largely attributed to lack of grassroots structures. Ukachukwu’s candidature has automatically bridged this gap in Anambra. Owing to his emergence, the odds favour APC in the forthcoming governorship election in the state, as the people cannot wait to return to the central government after almost two decades of operating on the fringes of Nigerian politics.

    The deprivation that the people had suffered, both in federal appointments and infrastructure, as a result of the disconnection from the centre, is unquantifiable. I discussed this in details in my earlier article titled, “Reconnecting Anambra state to the national political grid.”

    If federal connection is not important, small political parties like APGA would not be “falling head over heels” to ally with the federal ruling party every election season. Unfortunately for them this time around, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a party man, unlike some of his predecessors. His recent warning to sack the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) if APC loses the seat of power to PDP buttresses this fact.   

    Luckily for the people of Anambra, Ukachukwu has promised to use his street credibility to tackle the insecurity, which rocked the state like volcanic eruption in the first three years of the administration of the incumbent Governor, Professor Charles Soludo. This is cheering news because no serious investor will like to take his investment to a place where it is not safe.

    With adequate security in Anambra state, there would be a reversal of the movement of commercial activities from Onitsha to Asaba, the capital of Delta state. Ukachukwu’s vast experience in business leaves no one in doubt that Anambra will become a beehive of activity for investors if he becomes the Governor. Without a doubt the state’s very large business community would be happy to rally round their own. He is somebody who has impacted the lives of people in the state with his personal resources through philanthropy. 

    Besides, experience has taught us in Anambra that governance takes more than being a theoretical Professor of Econometrics. Pundits see the APC candidate as somebody who possesses the qualities that are lacking in those at the helm of affairs in Anambra state today, particularly empathy and emotional intelligence. Judging by Ukachukwu’s antecedents in public service as a former Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) and one-time Member of the House of Representatives, he has the capacity, competence and sagacity to steer the ship of the state.

    In conclusion, what Anambra needs is a governor that can relate with people across every strata and divides of the society, to promote diversity, equity and inclusion, as the bases for building a progressive and prosperous state,  and not a deeply conceited character who makes bogus promises.

    • Dr. Nzomiwu is a media and communication practitioner from Ozubulu in Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State.

  • Isoko APC leaders decry marginalisation, seek commission’s MD

    Isoko APC leaders decry marginalisation, seek commission’s MD

    All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in Isoko, Delta State, have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the marginalisation of the ethnic nationality.

    According to them, Isoko, the second place oil was discovered in the Niger Delta after Oluibiri, has not had any federal presence or any of their sons or daughters appointed as minister or into any federal executive position since 1999.

    They said the only thing representing federal presence in Isoko is a police station and street lights by the NDDC.

    In contrast, the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups have had ministers and others appointed to executive positions and enjoy other essential infrastructure.

    The leaders are urging President Tinubu to appoint an Isoko person as the Managing Director of the newly created South-South Development Commission (SSDC) for the sake of equity and fairness.

    They stressed that their peaceful agitation for inclusion at the national level, if continuously neglected, could give rise to violent agitation, which they have been working to avoid.

    They made the call on behalf of the Isoko ethnic nationality at a briefing in Lagos.

    Delta State APC Secretary, Chief Peter Akarogbe, said it will become difficult to sell the party to voters and convince people to work for it if the injustice persists.

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    He believes there is no better opportunity to address the neglect than to appoint an Isoko person as the SSDC MD.

    He said many eminently qualified sons and daughters of Isoko can head the new commission.

    Akarogbe said: “Our people have been marginalised for too long. In Delta South, there are three ethnic nationalities: Isoko, Ijaw and Itsekiri.

    “Only Isoko has not gotten anything – either appointment or federal government presence. And it’s making it difficult for us to sell the party to our people.

    “We believe it is an oversight by the President, so we want to draw his attention to these anomalies.

    “The SSDC has been created. The chairman has been appointed from Cross River State. The headquarters is also in Akwa Ibom State. The board has not been constituted.

    “We are calling on the President and all those in authority to look in the direction of the Isokos – for a son or daughter of Isoko to be appointed as the Managing Director of that commission for the sake of equity and fairness.

    “We’re major stakeholders. Isoko is the largest onshore oil producer in Nigeria, producing close to 400 barrels per day onshore. So why should we not be considered for a federal appointment?

    “We’re drawing the President’s attention to the oversight and pleading with him to appoint our own as the MD of the SSDC.”

    Delta South APC Youth Leader Hyacinth Ewariezi described it as “painful and disheartening” that Isoko has not had a Federal appointment since 1999.

    “I feel the SSDC was created for the Isoko to be accommodated because we have been blacked out despite our significant contribution to the economy.

    “Party-wise, we have contributed our quota. So, the President should remember us by appointing an Isoko son as the MD. That is the agreement of the Isokos.

    “When this is done, Isoko will surely reciprocate by voting him en masse in 2027.”

    State APC Welfare Secretary, Mrs Hoplyn Akpotu-Ayu, stressed that the Isoko ethnic nationality cannot continue to be neglected.

    She said: “Considering our contribution to the economy, this marginalisation saddens us, so we want the Federal Government to remember us this time.

    “The entire Isokos agreed that we should be given this appointment, and we plead that nothing should sabotage that unanimous plea, especially given our enormous contribution to the economy.

    “That way, we will be able to convince our people to vote APC in 2027.”

    According to Mrs. Akpotu-Ayu, if an Isoko person is appointed MD of SSDC, he will be in the best position to attract the much-needed infrastructure and projects that have been lacking.

    “It will also give our people hope that, having appointed their son to that position, other appointments will follow.

    “In the Senatorial district, the President had the highest number of votes from the Isoko nationality.

    “So, there is no justification for continuously neglecting us just because we have no person at the top speaking for us.

    “The President needs to know that such a level of marginalisation is being carried out against a populous ethnic nationality with great voting strength.

    “The best way the President can correct it is to give this MD-ship to an Isoko son.

    “Ijaws and Isekiri have produced many ministers and senior special advisers, chairmen of commissions and federal commissioners. Isoko has never gotten one. It’s like man’s inhumanity to man. It’s not fair.

    “So we urge the President to address the issue to avoid violent agitation because when peaceful agitation is resisted, it could give rise to violent agitation.

    “Isoko leaders are already suppressing the youths from taking arms. There should be a reward for being peaceful.

    “When there was no offshore oil production, it was the Isokos and a part of the Urhobo that were sustaining the country, but today, the nationality is being neglected. The reward for their making peace should not be neglect.”

    APC Isoko South Chairman, Vincent Egbogbo, said other ethnic groups have enjoyed a lot of political patronage from the Federal Government over the years.

    “So, we’re appealing to the President to please wipe our tears by appointing our son as the SSDC MD. That is the only way the Isoko can be carried along.

    “In fact, the gods of our land will go after anyone who obstructs this request from coming to fruition,” he said.

    The leaders said many representations have been made to the Federal Government over the years, with letters also sent to President Tinubu, but none have yielded a positive outcome so far.

    They are hopeful that the President will listen to their appeals this time.

  • Tinubu taking right steps on IDPs’ welfare, Kalu assures UN

    Tinubu taking right steps on IDPs’ welfare, Kalu assures UN

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has assured the United Nations that President Tinubu’s administration is taking deliberate and effective steps to address the plight of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria. 

    He gave the assurance during a high-level United Nations Special Online event on Wednesday to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the Guiding Principles on Internally Displaced Persons, while featuring as one of the esteemed panelists. 

    Kalu highlighted the government’s concerted efforts to domesticate the Kampala Convention, a pivotal regional treaty designed to protect and assist IDPs. 

    He emphasised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has proactively activated key components of the treaty to significantly enhance the living conditions of IDPs.

    Kalu further informed the UN the National Assembly  is diligently finalising legislation to provide legal backing to the treaty. 

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu, the Deputy Speaker assured that upon securing presidential assent, the States of the Federation will also adopt the legislation, ensuring a unified approach to addressing IDP issues nationwide. 

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    He said: “I am humbled to make my contributions about legislative activities and perspectives that we have on this particular issue,  particularly in regards to concrete steps taken by my country in addressing the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Our country, Nigeria believes so much in these principles.

    “The ones that are on the front burner for us as we activate issues around the IDPs. The principle one, which is protection from arbitrary displacement. Three, which is protection during this displacement, ten, which is the right to know the fate of whereabouts of relatives and twenty eight, which is the right to be returned or resettled. These are the ones on the front burner. We also believe in other ones, these principles form the bedrock of Kampala Convention. 

    “Our target is that these principles become alive in our country by making sure that Kampala Convention which we’ve rectified will be domesticated in our laws in the country. 

    “Nigeria after rectifying it, leaving it as it is, is not enough. The next step is to make sure that it is domesticated. To do that, we’ve taken it upon ourselves. Personally, I proposed the enactment into our laws and sponsored it in the House of Representatives because I believe in the potency of those principles and it can only be active in Nigeria if it is made to be part of our laws, especially as it concerns arbitrary displacement and upholding human rights of these Internally Displaced Persons and working in partnership with organizations like yours to make sure they are well taken care of.

    “I proposed a bill, it has been approved by the House of representatives and it has moved to the Senate for Concurrence, the senate report is ready and will be considered when we are back from our recess on April 29. After that the National Assembly clerk will take it to the President for assent.”

    Kalu also revealed that the government through the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons in Nigeria (NCFRMI) has improved the lives of the IDPs by resettling about 300 of them, particularly in Keffi, Nasarawa and Kano States with the delivery of over 40 new homes. 

    “Having said that, the Executive on their part have taken some steps to make sure that the lives of the Internally Displaced Persons are being taking care of through the development of national policy on IDPs.

    “This has been done to make sure that activities around the IDPs are governed by the framework. The government also through legislative intervention has provided for a commission for protection and rehabilitation of IDPs and we call it NCFRMI as a result of a Bill we passed in 2022 to strengthen it.

    “The objective of the commission is to serve as an institutional framework to coordinate resettlement to handle rehabilitation and also look at livelihood restoration initiatives for communities affected by the conflicts or displacement. The commission, we must commend, has taken steps to making sure that the objectives of the establishment of the commission are achieved. 

    “We have the Keffi example and Kano state example which demonstrate concrete progress in the resettlement and livelihood of these displaced persons.

    “These efforts are targeted towards integrating the affected communities into sustainable economic activities and blueprint for nationwide rehabilitation approach. The commission has established what we call the resettlement city and has used that resettlement city in Keffi to absolve almost 300 internally displaced people. 

    “They have also handed over in the last few days 40 brand new homes and Chairman of this particular commission is promising that more will be done in the coming days. This means that the government is in support in making sure that the lives and livelihood of these IDPs are well taken care of,” Kalu said. 

    While emphasising the need for the domestication of the legislations, Kalu also said that government was evolving formidable mechanisms to address the root causes of the displacements. 

    “The laws must be domesticated and ones the laws are domesticated, the elements that affect their participation will be highlighted, and that’s why we are pushing hard through partnership and collaboration with various MDAs,  international organizations to push for this domestication to take place as soon as possible. 

    “The government must be commended, even without the domestication of Kampala Convention, steps are being taken  through national policy on IDPs and this commission to make sure the lives of people who are affected are taken care of. 

    “There’s this conversation that has been going on. Beyond this implementation, the root causes of conflict, how do we handle that beyond this IDPs? I have led a conversation at Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) on setting up a model for post conflict for sustainable peace framework so that there will be no repeat. 

    “We don’t want those we have handled as IDPs to go back to IDP camps after that, which means, the root causes. Something must be done to make sure there’s no repeat. So, we should look at the sociological issues that gave birth to these conflicts and displacements and find a way to handle them ahead of time by setting up frameworks that will give sustainable peace. So, there will be no repeat,” he stressed. 

  • Tinubu laying foundation for national prosperity, says Jibrin

    Tinubu laying foundation for national prosperity, says Jibrin

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is laying a solid foundation for the country’s prosperity.

    He said In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, that Nigerians should support the President in his quest to address the challenges facing the country.

    Jibrin said: “ By May 29, it will be exactly two years since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration came on board in the country.

    “We are not there, and we cannot be in the promised land in less than 23 months when the numerous challenges facing our beloved country have weighed us down for decades. But a journey has started—the road is rough, but it’s for the restoration of our country’s glorious days. It is not easy to rebuild a shattered building.

    “In the past decades, all spheres of our country—power, road infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, water, housing, and others—have been begging for genuine attention.

    “This is coupled with the fact that this government came on board at the time that the entire world economy was and is still quite turbulent due to the high cost of basic goods and services all over the world arising from Russia -Ukraine, and

    Israel–Palestine wars. Nigeria is certainly not an exception.

    “ The good news is that the president is genuinely committed to addressing these challenges. Fresh air is already permeating all the country’s spheres, nooks and crannies to the admiration of lovers and good people, irrespective of differences and persuasions.”

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    Barau, who is the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said that since the present administration was inaugurated on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu has left no stone unturned in addressing the country’s challenges.

    He added: “ The direction is clear, and the foundation is correctly and solidly laid for our country’s transformation and prosperity.

    “ For instance, admirable success has been recorded in the area of security. Hundreds of terrorists have been neutralised in the North West geopolitical zone. Yes, there are pockets of cases of kidnapping and attacks, but they are minimal compared to before the coming of this administration. The instances of incessant kidnapping on the Abuja/Kaduna road have become history.

    “ In the Southeast, the activities of unknown gunmen terrorising the region have been on the downward side. In the North East, Boko Haram was almost completely eradicated until the recent attacks in some parts of Borno State.

    “ I am confident that our gallant members of the Armed Forces will act decisively to smoke them out permanently. The people of the remaining five states in the North East live peacefully and conduct their lawful businesses—commendation to our gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces and other sister security agencies.

    “ With the enhanced peace across the country, the Federal government has recently launched phase one of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) to revolutionise and industrialise the agricultural sector. SAPZ aims to transform Nigeria’s agriculture landscape through innovation, private-sector investments and strategic public partnerships.

    “ The zones are designed to create agro-industrial hubs that integrate farmers with processors, reduce post-harvest losses and expand rural economic opportunities. Seven states, namely Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Imo, Cross River, and Federal Capital Territory, have been selected for phase one, while Bauchi, Borno, and Gombe are listed for Phase 2.”

    Jivrin expressed optimism that the establishment of the North-West, North Central, South-East, South-West, and South-South development commissions will significantly contribute to developing the country’s regions.

    He said: “With President Tinubu’s establishment of the development commissions, we will witness unprecedented development at the grassroots level.

    “Also, the Abuja—Kaduna—Kano highway reconstruction, which dragged on for eight years under the last administration, has been flagged off and is receiving the needed attention.”

    On education, the Deputy Senate President described the introduction of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) by the present administration as unprecedented.

    He said that thousands of students across the country have benefitted so far, and their parents or guardians have been relieved of the stress of school fees payment.

    He recalled that when President Tinubu took over, the economy was in terrible shape in all spheres.

    Jibrin said: “ President Tinubu has been working genuinely to correct the fiscal misalignments. He has attracted foreign direct investments worth billions of dollars, paid the forex backlog and cleared the ways and means of the trillion Naira he inherited from the last administration.

    “ To this end, I urge all to give maximum support to the government to continue with these people-oriented and pro-masses initiatives conceived to take our country to the El Dorado.”

    He added: “ The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has laid the foundation for Nigeria’s prosperity. Let’s support him. We have no other country than the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We are by the grace of God on the path to prosperity.”

  • Bamidele x-rays Senate’s search for an efficient governance system

    Bamidele x-rays Senate’s search for an efficient governance system

    Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele recently reported back to his constituents in Ekiti Central during which he x-rayed diverse legislative initiatives the upper chamber had initiated in the last 22 months to guarantee the sustainability of the country’s democratic institutions; deepen the stability of her domestic economy and create an efficient and responsive governance system, Rasaq Ibrahim writes.

    From Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji to the Deputy Governor, Chief Christianah Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye and Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe (Aladesanmi III), eminent sons and daughters of the state converged in a large number on the Pavilion, Ado-Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti recently. 

    The rationale for their convergence was not merely for another carnival. Rather, the gathering was designed for Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele to render accounts of stewardship first as the representative of Ekiti Central in the Senate and also as the leader of the business in the country’s foremost democratic institution, which according to analysts, had come under public scrutiny since the birth of the 10th National Assembly. 

    It was indeed a moment of history that brought together political actors, traditional rulers  and socio-cultural leaders across five local government areas that constituted the senatorial district and beyond. It was also a moment for the constituents to reassess the choice they had made during the 2023 electioneering. It was lastly a moment for Bamidele  to give back to his teeming constituents he was elected to represent at the nation’s foremost parliamentary institution.

    Before the gathering that comprised constituents from five local government areas in Ekiti Central, Bamidele first acknowledged the multiplicity of socio-economic and political issues that confronted the federation at the birth of the 10th National Assembly. He listed the issues to include escalating food prices, security challenges, extreme poverty cases, acute infrastructure deficit and instability in the foreign exchange market, among others.

    Bamidele,thus, commended the constituents and indeed Nigerians for their display of resilience and support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and leadership of the National Assembly during the challenging times. He pointed out the resolve of the presidency and parliament to work together to duly address all challenges impeding the country’s collective prosperity. 

    Each of these challenges, the senate leader argued, complicated the task of delivering critical services to the people. Undaunted by these challenges, Bamidele equally pointed out diverse creatively designed initiatives, which he observed, the parliament had adopted to address the crises that confronted the country as soon as it came on stream on June 13, 2023.

    The initiatives, according to him, arose from bills, motions and petitions that either originated from the executive arm or members of the upper chamber. Specifically, Bamidele explained the speed at which the parliament worked to ensure decisive responses to all the requests of strategic national interests from the presidency. The momentum was evident in the prompt consideration of money bills, appointment confirmations and other interventions aimed at reinforcing the country’s social cohesion; ensuring economic stability and creating an environment that would incentivise strategic investors.

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    Although he acknowledged the multiplicity of legislative initiatives that the parliament had promoted in the last 22 months, Bamidele mentioned vital ones that impinged directly on nearly all households across the federation. He, however, observed that Nigerians rarely made reference “to such legislatures despite far-reaching positive outcomes they portend for all households.”

    Bamidele first highlighted the repealing and re-enactment of the 2024 National Social Investment Programme Agency (Establishment) Act. Unlike its repealed version, the Act was amended to support vulnerable citizens facing scathing economic conditions heralded by the removal of fuel and forex subsidies.” He further explained the intent of the Act, which according to him, was designed to establish “an effective and accountable structure for service delivery and ensure  adequate coordination among relevant agencies of government.”

    He, thus, observed that the Act “has now guaranteed the sustainability of diverse national social investment programmes as a viable tool for poverty alleviation in Nigeria. We have provided necessary legislative frameworks and strengthened public institutions with capacities to deepen social equity and promote economic growth through other legislative initiatives.”

    The senate leader equally explained the significance of the 2024 Investments and Securities (Repeal and Re-enactment) Act. For him, the new regime was a major milestone in the country’s capital market reform. Now that the Act has been re-enacted, Bamidele argued, it will  strengthen regulatory frameworks for all forms of  investment; enhance the competitiveness of the country’s securities market and regulate digital currencies, fintech companies and other modern financial practices.

    Bamidele cited the implementation of the Students Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act 2024. Historic and transformative, Bamidele reeled out verifiable data, which delineated how the new legislation opened limitless access to tertiary education across the federation. As of 4th April 2025, according to Bamidele, the student loan dashboard revealed that 543,768 had indicated in the scheme while 470,829 applied for the loans.

    Since the scheme came on stream, the senate leader revealed that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) had disbursed N49.33 billion based on the information retrieved from the student loan dashboard. Of this figure, according to him, N29.86 billion was disbursed to settle tuitions nationwide while upkeep disbursements gulped N19.47 billion as of 4th April 2025. He thus challenged his constituents to take advantage of the vast opportunities that the scheme offered the youths whose parents could not afford to take up their tuition and upkeep.    

    Likewise, Bamidele explained the imperative of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (Amendment) Act, 2023, which KPMG International observed, would protect children rights; enhance data security; ensure the rights of data subjects and forestall personal data breaches. In essence, according to him, the Act was intended to promote accountability and transparency within the digital media space on the one hand and enhance the country’s economic, educational and digital regulatory frameworks on the other hand. 

    Among others, he cited the development of diverse legislative frameworks, which according to him, the parliament had designed to stabilise the country’s fiscal and monetary spaces; prioritise the stability of internal security; address consumer price inflation and create more functional governance structures. He explained that the parliament had leveraged the power of  strategic collaboration among the arms of government to decisively respond to the governance issues. 

    Beyond what he had leveraged his good office to accomplish as the leader of business in the Senate, Bamidele explained the new scheme he  initiated to support his constituents under the Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme. In 2023, he revealed, the scheme benefitted no fewer than 4,000 constituents. In 2024, he put the number of constituents that benefited from the scheme at 5,000 across the senatorial district.

    Under the 2024 scheme alone, Bamidele further revealed that no fewer than 1,900 received a grant of N100,000 each to boost their businesses;  536 sewing machines distributed to newly certified seamstresses; 303 chest freezers to market women; 146 bags of  organic liquid fertilizers, 57 corn seeders and 10 engine tractors for farmers.

    Coupled with a newly reconstructed Oja Oba Market in Aramoko Ekiti that comprises 100 shops, the senate leader doled out 40,000 notebooks, 10,000 mathematical sets, 10,000 school bags, 10,000 calculator sets to students in public schools within the senatorial district. Among others, 180 motorcycles were distributed to farmers for the purpose of easy access to their farm settlements, 165 tricycles for short township travel and 20 mini buses for intra-city transport services.

    With this account, Oyebanji recalled the request of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the government and people of Ekiti State before the 2023 presidential election. When he then visited the state, Oyebanji narrated how President Tinubu requested that the state should allow Senator Bamidele to serve at the federal level, citing his commitment to public causes and patriotic services at the 9th National Assembly.

    Just two years into the administration, Oyebanji noted that Ekiti State, not just Ekiti Central, “has significantly benefited from the resolve of the state to release Senator Bamidele to the president to enable him serve at the federal level. The outcome of that decision is what the people of the state are currently benefiting today evident in  the massive programmes and projects that Senator Bamidele has facilitated to the state.”

    The governor commended the senate leader for the approach he adopted “to select beneficiaries of the 2024 Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme, which accommodates all interests across all local government areas in the district.” He also appreciated his commitment “to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of the state on behalf of President Tinubu. We can now see the benefits and dividends. We can now see the rationale behind the request of the president then.”

  • Support Tinubu for national progress, APC chieftain Mumuni tells Atiku

    Support Tinubu for national progress, APC chieftain Mumuni tells Atiku

    …recognises power of unity in addressing pressing issues our country faces

    Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has urged President Bola Tinubu and opposition leaders, particularly former Vice President, Abubakar Atiku, to put aside their political discord and work together for the betterment of Nigeria.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mumuni highlighted the growing challenges facing the country and expressed concern that the ongoing political disagreements, especially between Tinubu and Atiku, are hindering national progress.

    While acknowledging the validity of their grievances, Mumuni emphasised that these disputes must be set aside for the greater good of Nigeria and its citizens. 

    He pointed out that the lack of open, honest dialogue among political leaders has left many Nigerians disillusioned, with the public’s call for effective governance growing louder.

    Mumuni called on both leaders, as well as other Nigerian politicians, to focus on pressing national issues such as economic recovery, security, education, and healthcare. 

    He urged them to redirect their energy toward constructive discussions that would lead to tangible solutions.

    In conclusion, Mumuni proposed a summit where the concerns of all political leaders could be openly discussed, fostering collaboration and finding solutions for the nation’s challenges. 

    He stressed that Nigerians deserve leaders willing to prioritize the country’s future over personal grievances.

    He said, “In these challenging times, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our nation’s history. It has become increasingly evident that the discord between our political leaders, particularly between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Tinubu, is an impediment to national progress. The ongoing grievances, while valid in their own right, must be set aside for the greater good of our beloved country and its citizens.

    “Nigerians are weary of the prolonged crises stemming from political strife, which have resulted in unnecessary hardship, insecurity, and loss of life. Our nation does not lack the wisdom and vision of its leaders, but rather the unity and collaboration that can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and development. The absence of honest discourse among our political class has left many disillusioned, as the call for effective governance continues to echo across the land.

    Read Also: Okotete urges opposition to back Tinubu, restates loyalty to APC

    “I urge both Atiku Abubakar,  Bola Tinubu and others to recognise the power of unity in addressing the pressing issues our country faces. Together, they can become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that cooperation transcends rivalry. By coming together, they can forge a path towards meaningful dialogue, reconciliation, and partnership that prioritizes the welfare of every Nigerian.

    “Let us redirect our energies toward constructive discussions that focus on vital areas such as economic recovery, security, education, and healthcare. Our citizens deserve leaders who are willing to put aside personal grievances for the sake of a brighter future. The world is watching, and history will remember those who took bold steps to heal divisions and work for the collective benefit of the nation.

    “In this spirit, we call on both leaders to initiate a summit where their concerns can be openly discussed and solutions collaboratively crafted. Let us inspire optimism and a renewed sense of purpose among the people of Nigeria.

    “Together, we have an opportunity to build a legacy of unity and progress, one that will be remembered for generations to come.”

  • Okotete urges opposition to back Tinubu, restates loyalty to APC

    Okotete urges opposition to back Tinubu, restates loyalty to APC

    Former national women leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Stella Erhuvwuoghene Okotete, has urged the opposition to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    She reaffirmed her steadfast loyalty and unwavering commitment to the President and the APC, expressing resolute solidarity as the nation looks ahead to 2027.

    As the political landscape begins to stir in anticipation of the next electoral cycle, Okotete said she remains optimistic and unshaken in her belief that President Tinubu is well-positioned to secure a second term in office. 

    She confidently asserted that a victory for the president in 2027 is not just likely but inevitable, given his commendable performance thus far.

    According to her, President Tinubu’s administration has delivered significantly on people-oriented governance and infrastructural development, placing him leagues ahead of any potential contender. 

    His transformative leadership, she stressed, has touched all corners of the nation, reinforcing the public’s confidence in his capability to continue steering Nigeria toward greater progress.

    Okotete, currently serving as the Executive Director of Nexim Bank, highlighted her longstanding relationship with the president, which dates back to 2016. 

    Read Also: Okotete lauds Oluremi Tinubu’s leadership, motherly role

    She proudly acknowledged President Tinubu as her mentor, under whose guidance she has flourished both politically and professionally.

    She called on members of opposition parties to set aside partisan interests and unite behind the president in the spirit of national development.

    According to her, supporting the actualisation of the administration’s campaign promises is a collective responsibility, and with continued prayers and national backing, the best from President Tinubu is yet to come.

    “This is where I belong… 4+4,” she declared, signaling not only her personal allegiance but also a rallying cry for continued unity and progress under the leadership of President Tinubu.

  • House Committee on Works plans oversight visit ahead of Lagos-Calabar highway commissioning

    House Committee on Works plans oversight visit ahead of Lagos-Calabar highway commissioning

    As President Bola Tinubu prepares to commission a completed 30-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on May 25, 2025, the House of Representatives Committee on Works, chaired by Hon. Akin Alabi, has announced plans to conduct an oversight inspection to ensure the project’s readiness.

    The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Lagos and Calabar, traversing several states along Nigeria’s coastline.

    The first phase of the project, covering 47.47 kilometers from Victoria Island to the Lekki Deep Seaport, is currently underway. Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has confirmed that 30 kilometers of this section will be ready for commissioning by May 25, 2025.

    Speaking on the planned oversight, Hon. Alabi said: “As a Committee, it is our constitutional responsibility to ensure that all federal infrastructure projects are executed in accordance with the highest standards of quality, transparency, and accountability.

    “The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is a significant investment by the Nigerian people, and we must do our due diligence before its commissioning.”

    Hon. Alabi emphasized the importance of the oversight function, stating that the committee’s visit aims to verify that all aspects of the project meet the required standards before the official commissioning.

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    He noted that such inspections are crucial for accountability and ensuring that public funds are utilized effectively.

    The committee’s inspection will focus on assessing the quality of construction, adherence to project timelines, and the implementation of safety measures.

    Its proactive approach aligns with the government’s commitment to transparency and delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that meet international standards.

    “Our visit is not just a routine check,” Hon. Alabi added. “We want to ensure that when Mr. President arrives to commission this road, he is doing so on a stretch that reflects value for money, durability, and safety for all users. This is about performance and project delivery.

    The oversight visit by the House Committee on Works is expected to provide clarity and reinforce public confidence in the project’s integrity and the government’s dedication to infrastructural development.

    The project is expected to enhance connectivity along Nigeria’s southern corridor and potentially contribute to economic development in the region.

  • Oyo Assembly aspirant commends Ibadan North East APC chairman

    Oyo Assembly aspirant commends Ibadan North East APC chairman

    A stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ibadan North East Local Government, Hon. Adewale Adegoke has eulogised the chairman of the party, Hon. Azeez Ashimolowo Elewure, describing him as a fountain of grace to the party.

    In a birthday message by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Com. Durodola Abduljelil,  Adegoke said Elewure’s leadership has been adjudged the best in grassroots administration in Ibadan North East.

    Read Also: Oyo Assembly approves council budget to enhance accountability

    He stated that the leadership of the party chairman has formed bedrock for growth and development in the party.

    The politician, popularly called ‘Alakowe’ said the party leader has good heart to both young and old, saying the celebrant is worthy to emulate by Nigerians for peaceful coexistence.

    He said: “There is no doubt, Hon. Elewure is a good person with good heart. He supports vision to fruition at all times. A huge fountain of Grace to the All Progressives Congress in Ibadan North East, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.”

    The 2027 Oyo House of Assembly hopeful maintained that Hon. Elewure usually seeks peace and progress of members of the party, appreciating him as he rallied for his support in the build up towards his 2023 political aspiration.

    Adegoke prayed for good health and knowledge for Elewure’s leadership, so that APC can regained power come 2027 elections in the state.