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Category: Politics

  • ‘Jonathan is no threat to APC’

    ‘Jonathan is no threat to APC’

    Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. He was Special Assistant on Students and Special Interest to late Governor Olusegun Agagu, and currently, a member of the Governing Council of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. Asagunla, who hails from Oke-Agbe Akoko in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State, in this interview with GBENGA ADERANTI talks about the Ondo politics, his group, Asiwaju Mandate Group, all about, and the 2027 elections. Excerpts

    It is being argued in certain quarters that it is too early to talk about 2027. What is your take on this?

     Nobody is campaigning yet, as that will negate the INEC rules, but what everybody is doing now is to create awareness through sensitisation of the people and the voters about the policies and good work of Mr President.

     The rumour is very rife that the former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, is going to join the presidential race. How comfortable is your party with this development?

     Very comfortable, so long as the law permits him. The more the merrier. But he should be reminded that Nigerians can’t forget in a hurry how insecurity almost overran his government and corruption was highly endemic under his watch. The track record of each person will speak for themselves, that is, if he gets his party’s ticket. But if you ask me, the nation has moved beyond a Jonathan. Better times are here.

     In what way will this affect the fortune of your presidential candidate in 2027?

     The scoreboard will be there to be presented to Nigerians. The things that Jonathan didn’t have the courage and political will to do have been done by President Tinubu. The subsidy that was almost ruining the nation’s economy has been removed, our refinery is working, Nigeria, which used to be the highest importer of fuel, is now the highest exporter of fuel in West Africa, and many other strides have been accomplished, and all that will count for good in the re-election of Asiwaju as president. GEJ must be reminded that he had power but lost it to Buhari with the help of PBAT, who is now in power. How on earth does he think that he can wrestle and get that power from  PBAT! To me, he is no threat at all to us in the APC.

     The coalition group is getting stronger both in size and popularity. What do you have to say about this?

     Getting stronger as how, at where? As far as I am concerned, the coalition is a fluke, a gathering of disgruntled individuals who have been in power and are being pushed by their presidential ambition. Gathering they shall surely gather, but they will by themselves self-destruct. It is a gang of disgruntled elements and politicians who didn’t get access to the commonwealth as they used to, and are driven by their inordinate ambition. Nigerians can see through their intent and deceit. They are spent forces.

     What is the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG) all about?

     Asiwaju Mandate Group is a socio-political group put together by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji Ojo on the 8th of March 2024 with the sole aim of proclaiming and publicizing the good works of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), and to explain to the people how the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President is touching positively on the lives of the common man. When you sensitise the people, they will know, and when they know, they can benefit from it, then they wouldn’t have any reason not to support Mr  President for a second term in office.

    Why is your group supporting President Tinubu, especially when you have another aspirant from Ondo, Adewole Adebayo, who is interested in the same position?

     Adewole Adebayo could have been a good candidate, but he lacks the experience and is possibly not mature enough to govern a multi-tribal country like Nigeria. He will do well to learn in Tinubu’s cabinet and contribute his ‘brilliant’  ideas like Dr Olubunmi-Tunji -Tunji Ojo is doing, but as president. He isn’t  ripe for such yet, with due respect to him.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s retelling of Nigeria’s 65 years of pain, progress, gloom, bloom

     In which way are you supporting your candidate?

     Advocacy, policy interpretation, and mobilisation for INEC voters registration, among others.

     The attitude of many is that support groups do not win elections; rather, it is the electorate that determine the fate of any candidate. How would you react to this?

     It is a support group, as the name implies. It is a mobilisation tool and a means of ensuring that democratic dividends reach a larger number of people through grassroots mobilisation. It’s on record that our convener, Hon. Dr Olubumi Tunji-Ojo, has initiated, perfected and financed the decamping of prominent politicians in opposition parties in Ondo State for over two years to date through Asiwaju Mandate Group to add value to our great party, the APC,  thereby reducing the  influx of prominent politicians into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or ADA.

     Do you see your party surpassing the 2023 feat ? What measures are you putting in place to do this?

     Yes, we will beat them silly come 2027 because they can never talk in one accord. By the grace of God, we are targeting a 90% vote return for the president in Ondo State, and we hope that gets replicated in other states too.

     How would you rate the performance of the Ondo State governor so far?

     He seems to be doing his best, but I believe he can achieve more with a faster speed.

     Would you say Nigeria is practising true federalism?

     Yes in quote

     What are your roles as the DG of AMG?

     To coordinate other members of the executive in making decisions for the overall good of the members and the general public; direct the affairs of the Secretariat and ensure that it runs smoothly; coordinate dividends of the government and the goodwill of the groups convener to the people all across Ondo State.

  • Oyebanji jittery over Kayode Ojo’s popularity – Olayisade

    Oyebanji jittery over Kayode Ojo’s popularity – Olayisade

    Prince Akintade Charles Olayisade is a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and federal Commissioner, Public Complaint Commission in Ekiti State. In this interview with RASAQ IBRAHIM, he speaks on the coming APC governorship primary, governance in the state and other partisan issues.

    As the APC prepares for its governorship primary in Ekiti State, how would you describe the current political atmosphere in the state?

     The political ecosystem in Ekiti today is the equivalent of authoritarianism. We have a dictatorship pretending as a democrat. The general impression is that the Governor is liberal, humble and a gentleman but in reality, he is a man who’s intolerant of any opposition. There’s this sense of entitlement that nobody has the capacity to be governor but BAO. I can tell you emphatically that Kayode Ojo will articulate a better governance template than the  one we are experiencing. Yes, the governor is investing the entire state economy and government machinery on his second term ambition, but eventually, the will of the people will prevail.

     There are several aspirants in the race, including the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji. Who do you consider the main contenders and why?

     Unless we want to deceive ourselves, there are only two candidates jostling for the governorship. The incumbent and the incoming, Kayode Ojo. I honestly will not bother to support any candidate if the governor has demonstrated capacity. On the contrary, what we see is deceit and mediocrity on an industrial scale.

    Never in recent economic history of Nigeria has sub-nationals access the kind of fund they have now. Many states like Ogun, Lagos, Niger and Anambra are investing massive funds into infrastructure, education and agriculture, but our governor is investing into our over bloated elites. Ogun State is poised to host the largest textile industry in the entire West Africa soon while Anambra will soon become an automobile manufacturing hub . I don’t want to go into the dirty details, but it’s a common knowledge that our allocation and other extra budgetary resources goes into recurrent expenditure for national party aristocrats and past state political office holders. I am unapologetically a Kayode Ojo fan and l would stake my last vote for him as the Governor of Ekiti State because of his superlative pedigree, network and passion for Ekiti State.

     Some argue that Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated capacity and received accolades and applause from traditional rulers, artisans, market women, and even opposition figures. How do you respond to these endorsements?

     The accolades you talk about or endorsements are outcomes of stomach infrastructure. All the people or groups singing the praises of the governor are bought. I understand the economy is hostile to the lazy and the only means of survival for some people is government in power. Must we eat tomorrow’s investment today in the name of politics? History will be unfair to those elites who manipulate the truth today for the sake of morsels. We will soon come out with the register of our elites who collect monthly handouts from the Ekiti State Government, and how much they collect in exchange for support. What are the facts on ground to justify the invasion of endorsements we witness on a daily basis. Ekiti collects an average of N16b monthly in the past three years apart from other extra budgetary provisions and Local Government funds. Tell me what can you point to that has been done with those funds? An additional N90b loan has been powered without due process and not tied to any project. It’s sad, the state is under a siege and unless men of good conscience rise up and change the narratives, l am afraid the outcome will be disastrous for our collective future.

    Read Also: Independence Blues: Nigeria at 65: A broken promise?

     What makes Kayode Ojo your preferred candidate, and why do you believe he represents a better alternative for Ekiti?

     Kayode Ojo deserves commendation for stepping forward to challenge the status quo and rescue Ekiti from generational ruin. It takes divine courage and conviction on his part to face the proverbial Goliath that this glutinous coalition of jobless statesman has constituted. His chances are not just bright, they are real. Do a random opinion sampling of Ekiti people today, both at home and in  the diaspora, the statistics in favour of EKO is startling. The Civil Servants whose minimum wage cannot take them home or market women that has been pauperised by multiple taxation are all yearning for a change and that change they  see in Kayode Ojo, the political class that has been used and dumped in the past two years but are now being patronised are also waiting for their pound of flesh. The grassroots and the streets are fully with us.

     With Given Oyebanji’s incumbency advantage and visible structures, what gives you confidence that Kayode Ojo can defeat him at the primary?

     The confidence comes from the voices of the people themselves. I live among them and l listen to their frustrations in the midst of official intimidation. The state Governments non- performance has created a vacuum that Kayode is poised to fill. It’s obvious that Oyebanji has done his best and cannot give what he does not have.

     But there are is a widespread clamour across the 16 local government area for Oyebanji’s continuity till 2031. Do you agree with this narrative?

     Where does the widespread clamour come from? Is it from the Local Government and LCDAs whose allocations are diverted or the councillors whose entire salary cannot buy a good pair of shoes? Take it from me; in a free primary the Governor will be defeated.

     You alleged that your name, and that  of other stakeholders, have been deliberately removed from the APC membership register. How do you interpret this development?

     Yes, it’s not only my name that’s missing, but the names of major stakeholders of Kayode Ojo’s team. More than 30,000 names in our register have been mutilated. I confronted the APC State Secretary, who confirmed that he was acting on instructions. The is criminal, and there will be consequences. The truth is that Governor Oyebanji is jittery about Kayode Ojo’s soaring popularity and that is why they have resorted to underhand tactics to weaken our support base. I have never seen this level of desperation in my entire political career. Some of them will have cardiac arrest when the hen eventually comes home to roost. Hon. Ropo Ige, a two-term House of Reps member and a former Local Government Chairman, was removed from the register in Ikoro. That is politics taken too far, and we are going to respond appropriately and at the right time.

     Some party officials may describe such irregularities as administrative errors. Why do you insist it was a calculated political plot?

     My removal from the party register is far from been an administrative error or oversight but a deliberate and well- orchestrated plot to weaken the support base of a major opposition. It’s cowardice and we are going to take the matter to the highest level of authority in the land. The President who’s a thorough democrat and the National Chairman of the party will be duly informed about the shenanigans of the National Secretary who we heard is on the payroll of the State Government in the last two years.

     Do you trust that the national leadership of the APC will ensure a free, fair, and transparent primary in Ekiti?

     The situation in the party presently is not conducive for a free primary but it will be remedied. The President himself faced a well organised broadcasted primary, Kayode Fayemi the mentor of Oyebanji faced about 18 aspirants before he emerged as candidate in 2010 . If they think the kind of kangaroo primary that led to Oyebanjis emergence in 2023 is possible again in 2025, they should wake up from dreamland.

     What’s your message to Kayode  Ojo’s supporters as the governorship primary approaches?

     My message to Kayode Ojo supporters across the state and in the diaspora, is that light is at the end of the tunnel. Like it was said in biblical times, “these Egyptians that you see today “ by October 28th “ We shall see them no more. Ekiti shall be great again when the righteous and competent toake over her affairs. Our campaign should remain issue based and data driven, our people should remain law abiding because the masses are on our side.

  • Electoral Reform: Will Nigeria get it right?

    Electoral Reform: Will Nigeria get it right?

    Reforming the nation’s election system is one issue that has dominated electoral discourse over the years, especially after the 2007 elections. The agitation became more pronounced after the 2023 general elections and with the spate of defections by elected office holders. Many believe that reforming the system will give the nation’s electoral system some level of credibility. But not many agree that the nation will succeed in this venture even as the National Assembly seeks to amend both the constitution and the electoral act in this regards. TONY AKOWE reports.

    Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigerians have continued to agitate for an electoral reform that will ensure a holistic overhaul of the electoral process in the country. These reforms being sought by Nigerians goes far beyond an amendment to the Electoral Act, but giving constitutional backing to certain issues that will give credence to them in relation to the elections in the country and creating certain institutions that will assist the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in promoting electoral credibility in the country. It is on record that the current management of INEC has consistently stressed the need to unbundle the commission with a view to reducing its work load and allowing it to concentrate on purely electoral matters. Presently, the commission is constitutionally mandated to register and regulate political parties, conduct elections as well as investigate and prosecute electoral offenders.

    Not many Nigerians believe that the nation’s electoral umpire has nurtured the electoral system to a stage of maturity with great improvement in the system. but since the infamous ‘do or die’ electoral declaration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo before the 2007 general election to the admission by late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua that he was not proud of the election that brought him to power, the agitation for electoral reform by Nigerians has consistently been on the increase. That led to the setting up of the Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais Committee on Electoral Reform which made far reaching recommendations on how to repositioning and reforming the electoral process in Nigeria. Unfortunately, majority of the recommendations have not been implemented several years after.  While some of these recommendations required constitutional amendments, others require tinkering with the electoral act and both.

     For example, the recommendation for an electoral offences commission and tribunal and the recommendation on the establishment of a political party registration and regulatory commission require constitutional amendment to give them the force of law. Although the Senate passed the bill to establish the Electoral Offences Commission that will be saddled with the responsibility of investigating and prosecuting electoral offenders in the 9th Assembly, the House of Representatives failed to pass the same law. At the session presided over by the then Deputy Speaker where the bill was scheduled for consideration, the House turned the report and asked its committee on Electoral Matters to correct obvious errors. The report never made it back for consideration before the expiration of the life of that Assembly. That meant that the bill had to be returned to the House and reworked. The bill sponsored by Bamidele Salam returned to the parliament as a constitutional amendment bill and form one of the 12 bills on electoral reform being considered by the 10th House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review.

    The Citizens’ Coalition for Electoral Reform says any reforms in the electoral system in the country should focus on two main areas. These are the administrative and legal framework. They also argued that there is a need for the review of INEC’s regulations and guidelines, which are contained in the INEC Memorandum for Administrative Reform. Like many Nigerians, the group believes that the process of appointing the Chairman, National Commissioners, and Resident Electoral Commissioners should be reviewed, with the power taken away from the President. Rather, they want a multi-stakeholder approach to appointments into INEC, including consultations with the National Council of State, as well as traditional and religious institutions and civil society.

    They are also of the view that the criteria for appointments into INEC should be reviewed, as the current criteria of non-partisanship and unquestionable character prescribed by the Constitution have proven inadequate. They want the introduction of additional criteria such as professional skills and qualifications, health, age, and gender, saying: ‘Election administration requires individuals with diverse legal, IT, logistics, statistics, and communications skills. The appointing authority should consider the age, health status, and gender of nominees when making appointments to the commission.” This argument draw support from the House Constitution Review Committee who are seeking an amendment to the constitution to reform the processes of appointing the INEC Chairman by involving the National Judicial Council in the selection process there by enhancing the independence, credibility and transparency of the appointment process.

    On its part, PAACA said: “currently, the President holds considerable power over the appointment of INEC members, and its funding is subject to annual appropriation, leading to a perceived lack of autonomy.’ They are proposing the establishment of a broad-based selection committee with members drawn from civil society, the judiciary, and the National Assembly, including the National Judicial Council, to preside over the selection process into the Independent National Electoral Commission. They also propose a five-year single tenure for members appointed to the commission. Presently, members of the commission can serve two terms of five years each. The current system allows the President to nominate the Chairman and members of the commission, as well as Resident Electoral Commissioners”.

    Incidentally, the recommendations of the Justice Uwais Commission falls in line with the recommendations of the Political Reform Conference and the 2014 National Conference set up by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Since the 2023 general elections, there have been so many agitations, and the electoral umpire itself has held series of stakeholders meeting aimed at creating a better electoral process in the country. At one of such for with members of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matter, the INEC Chairman spoke of the need to reduce cost of conducting elections in the country. One of the reforms being proposed by the Commission which is also contained in the bill to amend the electoral act 2022 is the provision that will eliminate by-elections in parliamentary elections. Clause 40 (1 and 2) of the bill seeking to amend the electoral act states that “where an elected member of a legislative house at any level of government resigns, dies or is otherwise unable to continue in office before the expiration of the tenure for which the member was elected, the political party under whose platform the member was elected shall have the mandate to nominate a replacement from within the party in accordance with the procedure for nomination of candidates in section 84(2). The nomination under paragraph 1 shall be made within 60 days after the seat is declared vacant by the presiding office due to resignation, death or incapacity of the member”. But Hon. Kolawole Davidson Akinlayo, the member representing Moba/Ilejemeje/Ido Osi Federal Constituency of Ekiti State in the House of Representatives is not in support of that move. He believe that the proposal by the commission for the party of the deceased lawmaker who the one that resigned to produce the replacement is not democratic. He said “that’s not proper. If INEC suggests that model, that would be tantamount to denying the people the right to choose the person they want to occupy that position because the leadership of the parties can just sit somewhere and pick a candidate. That will not reflect the feeling of the generality of that people in that area.”

    Read Also: Tinubu assures northern Christians of fairness

    Aside the position of INEC and clamour by Nigerians, the House of Representatives has also made electoral reform one of its key priority, forming one of the items on its legislative agenda.

    According to the item on the agenda, the House pledged to “carefully examine complaints and observations made by stakeholders arising from the conduct of the 2023 general elections. Specific actions to be taken by the House include amend the Electoral Act 2022 to remedy some of the gaps observed, including vague and contradicting provisions, pass an independent legislation (the Political Parties Bill) to regulate the registration, financing and functioning of political parties in Nigeria and, by so doing, allow INEC to focus on the conduct of elections; set up a mechanism for periodic reviews of electoral laws to ensure they remain relevant and in tune with global best practices”.

    It also planned to “amend the Electoral Act 2022 to allow diaspora voting by government officials around the world, ensure the passage of the National Electoral Offences Commission Bill to confer powers of the Commission to prosecute electoral offences, propose amendments to the Constitution on issues related to elections in Nigeria to address the appointment of Chairman and National Commissioners of the Independent National electoral Commission (INEC); creation of an Electoral Offences Commission as an independent body; and the relevance or otherwise of Resident Electoral Commissioners (REC) of INEC in the States”.

    The process of unbundling the commission does not just rely on amending the Electoral Act or creating legislation by the National Assembly. It also involves amending the relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution. For example, the Constitution must first be amended to transfer INEC’s responsibility for registering and regulating political parties and prosecuting electoral offences to other institutions, which will be established by an Act of the National Assembly, such as the proposed Political Party Registration and Regulatory Commission and the Electoral Offences Commission. The functions to be ascribed to these bodies are already conferred on INEC by the Constitution, and only a constitutional amendment can alter this if the nation is to avoid a constitutional crisis and reduce INEC’s enormous and onerous responsibilities. Relevant sections of the Constitution include paragraph 15 of the Third Schedule and Section 144.

    Some of the bills being considered by the House Committee on constitution review include a bill to alter sections 40, 81, 84, 153, 222, 225, 226,228 and the third schedule to the constitution to provide for the establishment of the Political Party Registration and Regulatory Commission in other to reduce the burden on INEC and also allow the new body take charge of the registration, supervision, regulation of the operation of all registered political parties in the country, their finances, internal democracy, party primaries, conventions and meetings and other activities of political parties. The bill to this effect is sponsored by Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen. In addition, the House is also considering a bill to establish an Electoral Offences Commission with power to investigate and prosecute pre-election, Election Day and post-election crime as well as amending sections of the constitution to provide for the conduct of all elections on the same day. This, according to the House is to ensure a streamlined electoral process so as to reduce the administrative burden on INEC and ensure a more efficient and inclusive voting system for all citizens.

    The Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) supports the idea of an electoral offences Commission.

    PAACA said: “presently, election-related offences are cumbersome to prosecute within the existing federal or state high courts, leading to severe delays and backlogs. While election petition tribunals exist, there is no dedicated mechanism to handle criminal electoral offences like ballot snatching or vote buying. We propose that federal and state laws should provide for special electoral courts or divisions, mandated to hear these cases within a stringent 90-day timeframe from the commencement of proceedings.”

    There are also recommendations for a review of the period of elections and the dispensing of election petitions before inauguration. The bill seeks to ensure that all election petition and appeals arising thereof are resolved before elected officials assume office. The House said the goal of this constitutional amendment is to enhance electoral transparency and legitimacy. It said “by settling pre-inauguration disputes, the bill will prevent governance disruptions and boost public trust. This measure ensures only candidates with undisputed mandates takes office. This will promote a seamless power transition and strengthens democracy”. The implication of this provision is the procedures for elections may have to be altered either in the constitution or in the electoral act. Interestingly, there is a bill, that sought to make the Appeal Court the starting point for Governorship election petition, terminating in the senate just like the Presidential election, while legislative elections start from the tribunals and ends at the Court of Appeal. Clause 135 of the electoral act amendment bill currently being considered speaks to this constitutional amendment provision. It provide that the election petition tribunal be set up 30 days before the conduct of an election and should commence sitting not later than 8 days after the elections. It also provide that an election petition be filed 21 days after the date of declaration of election result and deliver judgement within 90 days (down from 180 days in the 2022 electoral act). It also provides that appeals arising from such judgement must be filed not later than 14 days from the date of judgement, while the appeal must be dispense with not later than 60 days after filing the appeal. This also apply to pre-election matters which must however be filed with 14 days from the date of the occurrence of the event being challenged. It also said that “an election tribunal or court shall not declare any person a winner of an election in which such a person has not fully participated in all stages of the election”. This tends to address situations where aspirants who lost party primaries are later declared winners of the main election because after the disqualification of the main candidate because of pre-election matters. This provision points to the fact that in such situation, the court can only order a by- election.

    One suggestion that tends to draw the support of the majority of Nigerians is the reduction in the time limit for election petitions. This is also a constitutional matter that needs to be dealt with by the Constitution Review Committee.

    Presently, the Constitution requires election petitions to be dealt with within 180 days from the date of filing such a petition. But advocates of reforms want the period reduced to 90 days, while the timeframe for the disposal of appeals on pre-election and election petitions should be reduced from 60 days to 30 days.

    Other provisions in the electoral act amendment bill that tends to support the provisions of dispensing election petition before inauguration is the provision contained in clause 27 (1&3) which provides that elections be conducted not earlier than 210 day (180 days in the 2022 electoral act) and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office. The Citizens’ Coalition wants the period increased from the current 90 days to the end of tenure to 240 days. This has also drawn support from several groups and political watchers who believe that holding elections earlier will give enough time for election petitions to be dispensed with. However, those who oppose this suggestion think that the Nigerian people will suffer more for such action, as governance will be abandoned early by political office holders. They argue that politicians have more often than not abandoned their responsibilities to engage in electioneering while neglecting their official duties. They also argue that those who are likely to lose such elections will abandon governance too early.

    The reforms being sought appeared to have taken into consideration, the major crisis that almost crumbled the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party over the issue of its National Secretary. The House wants a constitutional provision that will compel party leaders seeking to contest elective government position to first resign their position before embarking on such mission. Senator Samuel Anyanwu’s foray into the governorship election in Imo State left the party in a serious battle that lasted several months. The House is saying that resigning before contesting elective government position will ensure that no official holds both party and elective office at the same time. The implication of this, however, is that the political parties may have to amend their constitution to accommodate this provision as no party constitution can override a national law.

    It is also proposing the participation of independent candidates in the nation’s electoral process. Such persons would not have to join any political party. But given the spate of defection of candidates, especially after losing party primaries, the proposed law is seeking to ensure that you must not be a member of any of the registered political parties one year before the date set for the election. Checks by The Nation revealed that while independent candidates actively participate in elections in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, France and Germany, they have not made any significant impact on elections over the years. For example, about 2 percent of the total number of candidates contesting national election in the US, 10 percent in the UK, 14 percent in France and about 2.5 percent in Germany. No independent candidate won election in Germany between 2024 and 2025, while only about 2 percent of those who contested in the US and the UK won seat in parliament, with the figure higher in France with about 3 percent. If this provision sails through, it will amend sections 7, 65, 106, 131,177, 221 and 228 of the 1999 constitution.

    Other reforms being suggested by Nigerians, which appear to have the backing of INEC and the National Assembly, include the issue of diaspora voting and early voting for Nigerians engaged in essential duties during elections, as well as the creation of special seats for women. It also includes compulsory electronic transmission of results, which would require the strengthening of the Electoral Act to make electronic transmission of results mandatory, including the upload of polling unit-level results and results sheets used at different levels of collation. But this suggestion has not taken into consideration the technological advancement of the country, which is likely to leave this option open to manipulation. In some developed countries where election results are transmitted electronically, voting has often been conducted through electronic voting. The question has been how to ensure that this option remains workable in rural areas.

  • Opposition too weak to stop Oyebanji’s re-election – Ekundayo

    Opposition too weak to stop Oyebanji’s re-election – Ekundayo

    Dr. John Moyo Ekundayo, fondly called JMO, is the Special Adviser/ Director- General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Ekiti State. In this interview with RASAQ IBRAHIM, the chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) speaks on governance and politics in the Land of Honour.

    In the next few days, Ekiti State governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, will clock three years in office. How would you assess the administration so far?

    It has been one transformative step after another in Ekiti State since October 16, 2022. Over the past three years, the state has witnessed a lot of transformational strides in infrastructure, health education, agriculture particularly, and even in governance. If I were to score Governor Biodun Oyebanji, I would give him 90% because when you talk about the social contract with Ekiti people; his manifesto that he declared, which was broken down into programmes and projects at the inception and what he promised to deliver to Ekiti people, he has done well.

    Is it in the area of tourism development or infrastructure? The results are visible. Of course not everything has been done, there are still rooms for improvement, but it is clear that he has touched lives and impacted the state significantly.

    Some opposition figures claim Oyebanji is intolerant to criticism, despite being widely regarded as a humble and liberal leader. How would you describe his leadership style?

    I think such claims do not dignify the person or position of Governor Oyebanji. People should understand that he is a scholar of political science. He understands the nuances of governance, having served in various capacities under past administrations for decades. He has come to understand something many past leaders did not, and some even now do not—that it is better to multiply your friends, regardless of party platforms.

    So, he has distinguished between the time of politicking, when you are looking for votes, and the time of governance, when you are governor of all Ekiti.  With that, he bent backwards to people like former governors Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni, who took him to the Supreme Court, and many other people. He has also reached out to people outside politics like Baba Afe Babalola (SAN), Chief Wale Olanipekun (SAN), Femi Falana (SAN0, among others.

    Reaching out to a wide spectrum of Ekiti people, whether partisan or not has been his style. Like he said recently, he has tried to make peace with everybody that is available. There is a person known to everybody who didn’t make himself available for peace. It is not that he is intolerant of opposition. He always says: when politics is gone, now is governance.

    For me, I see him as a reincarnation of the grand master of politics without bitterness, Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim of the then Great Nigeria People’s Party. I see Oyebanji in that mould of politics without bitterness. It is not about being intolerant of opposition; he wants, as much as possible, to court many people and bring them to a common term. For us in Ekiti, it is a win-win because we have peace. If he had not done that, with the election of June 2026 approaching, the tension would have been high. But today, there is peace everywhere across the three senatorial districts.

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    Ekiti State reportedly receives significant monthly allocations from the federation account. How has the administration ensured these funds are translated into tangible improvements for Ekiti people?

    The impacts are visible in several sectors. On road infrastructure, this government has awarded projects worth N200 billion within three years, covering about 350 kilometers of roads across all local governments. Of these, 126 kilometers have been completed with many set for commissioning during the third year anniversary.

    Major roads like Ara–Ikole–Isinbode, Ikere–Igbara Odo, Ikere–Ilawe, Igbara Odo–Ikogosi are among them. Phase one of the ring road, which is a masterpiece, will also be commissioned, along with many other infrastructures. The overhead bridge is ongoing, nearing about 70% completion, and will be completed by February 2026. The Indoor Sports Hall is ongoing, the Revenue House has been completed and will also be commissioned. The Ekiti state House of Assembly is undergoing remodelling as we speak. There was also the construction of a 100-bed hostel at Command Secondary School in Isan.

    In educational development, 203 secondary schools and technical colleges have been renovated. These are on the Ekiti Dashboard, which the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery procured and delivered. There are photographs and video clips to verify this. In the health sector, five General Hospitals will be commissioned this October in Efon Alaaye, Okemesi, Ayede, and Ifaki. They are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that can be found anywhere. They can carry out operations in all these General Hospitals.

    Members of the National Assembly, the governor told us, cooperated with him to ensure that the hospitals are well staffed with personnel so that whatever is needed is available. These are the things the government is putting up. While some have already been completed, some are waiting commissioning, and others are ongoing. These are things that people can verify because we always tell them to visit the dashboard.

    There are other interventions apart from infrastructure. Take Internally Generated Revenue (IGR): from the onset, Ekiti State was averaging around N650 million as at October 2022 per month. Today, as at June 2025, the IGR per month has risen to N2.3 billion. A lot has also come in because the governor allowed autonomy for the Ekiti Internal Revenue Service starting from when the Chairman was appointed which was rigorous. He assembled his team and was given a free hand.

    A lot of reforms were carried out and here we are today. Right now, this government has approved and is implementing eGIS. With that, people can get their Certificates of Occupancy without any problem, people can acquire land, the incidences of land grabbing will be eliminated, and a lot will come in for the state through that. Citizens—professionals like land surveyors, town planners, engineers, and architects—will benefit from all these. These are areas of intervention of the state.

    About 250 health workers, nurses, and midwives were recruited, and up to 103 Primary Healthcare Centres all across the state were renovated with modern equipment, water, electricity, and fencing. When you talk about gratuities, it has been massive. In total, the government of Ekiti State has paid pensions up to date from October 2022 to September 2025 to the tune of N25.97 billion, and gratuities of up to N7.6 billion since inception.

    This has outpaced all other previous governments in Ekiti State. For example, during the Segun Oni era, people lauded him for paying pensions. That was one of the things used against Oyebanji, with claims he might not pay pensions and gratuities like Oni did. But the record today shows that Governor Oyebanji’s administration has surpassed that achievement.

    In agricultural interventions, as we speak, up to 40,000 hectares of land have been cleared for farmers for free, and that is why Ekiti, now in the Southwest, is in the news.

    According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Ekiti State has the lowest price index for food stuffs in the South west. About 5,000 youths are currently engaged with the Bring Back Youths in Agriculture program. This has helped the agriculture development pillar of this administration. 160,000 broilers are being raised and produced by the youths in poultry farming across the state.

    The government has also established the Ilu Eye Aggregation Hub. They bought tons of maize, rice, garri, and other foodstuffs, preserved and stored them. From there, they now have the Ounje Ekiti Retail Outlet, a new initiative where food prices are sold at lower rates than in the markets. Seedlings, cassava stems, and so on are being subsidized at 50%. Fertilizers are given out to farmers. There is support for rice farmers all across the state.

    Ekiti has also encouraged cluster farming. This is ongoing in my own town, and I have visited some farm settlements in the state. Dormitories are being built for them and three will be commissioned this October. Farm settlements, like in the days of Late Obafemi Awolowo, will be commissioned with mattresses and beds in Ikere, Iyemero, and Eporo. It’s amazing to go round these places and see the transformation going on.

    This is the first time we are having the State House of Assembly in harmony with the government, passing the necessary laws and supporting the governor. Ekiti has never had it so good in terms of harmony and peace. This is what some people don’t like, which is why they accuse the governor of being intolerant of opposition.

    The governor has received overwhelming endorsement from various stakeholders in the state including traditional rulers, market women, traders, union leaders, and some opposition leaders. But critics say the endorsements are transactional.  Are they genuine?

    They are genuine. When you look across party lines whether among youths or women, who are the greatest voting blocs, or among market men and women, artisans, and even labour unions you see real support. For example, Ekiti currently pays one of the highest minimum wage in Nigeria,  second only to Lagos State,  which explains labour’s support and endorsement.

    Party leaders and elders also do. This is the first time we are seeing harmony and peace in the state like never before. The PDP used to be the main opposition, but today, where is the opposition? Most of the noise is only on social, print, or electronic media. On the streets of Ado-Ekiti or any town, have you seen any posters announcing the candidacy of anybody?

    By and large, these endorsements are worthwhile and come out of people’s hearts, not because they were bought. I have read on social media claims that the state government sponsored them. No, some of us who are players tasked ourselves, because I am part of the players. The governor didn’t even get involved. Not just at the state level even at senatorial and local government levels.

    Even in Abuja, for the governor to submit his expression of interest forms, some of us went there. Nobody paid for airfare. It was out of love and affection for the governor and the government’s stellar performance. Even the National Working Committee of the party said they had never seen anything like it before, just for a governor to submit his form. It had never happened before for any APC candidate, whether returning to office or contesting anew.

    But there are claims that the governor is focusing much of his energy and state resources on his re-election. How does he balance politics with the demands of governance?

    Not at all. Governance is very much on course. The governor was involved in the 3rd Anniversary Committee meeting, and we have given him feedback. I am in charge of the 3rd Anniversary Project Sub-Committee and I gave my report. There is still going to be another round of project monitoring and inspection. Others in education and agriculture are doing the same. Governance is not distracted at any level as we speak. It is fully on course.

    You see, sometimes I just laugh at how some politicians think. For me, I only recently came into politics. I used to be an analyst, analyzing situations on the national scene. Now I am in Ekiti State and have been living here for the past two years, in my hometown in Ido-Ekiti. The Senator representing Ekiti North, Cyril Fasuyi, had a meeting with us just this Saturday. I was there as one of the party leaders. It was to prepare us for the scheduled primary election. Likewise, every local government is holding meetings.

    There are teams going from local government to local government. Virtually everywhere, ward by ward, you are getting 95–97% of people with Oyebanji and the President on the second term endorsements. From the submission of forms to the screening, Governor Oyebanji presented all the names he was to present. For two other candidates, whose names I won’t mention so I won’t be misquoted, either their names were not submitted enough or most of the names were not genuine. Even meeting the required numbers was a problem. All these are in the news and have not been denied.

    From the Appeals Committee, the matter was forwarded to the National Working Committee of the party to decide, so as not to lay a bad precedent. I don’t want to preempt the outcome of the NWC, but it is there for everyone to see.

    One of the APC aspirants, Engr. Kayode Ojo, has expressed confidence that Governor Oyebanji can be defeated in a free and fair primary. Do you share this view?

    No. To suggest the governor is facing stiff opposition is far from the truth. What exists are only pockets of opposition, mostly loud on social media but insignificant on the ground.

    Across the 177 wards in Ekiti, the reality is overwhelming support for Governor Oyebanji’s second term bid. The streets, the markets, and the grassroots are solidly with him. They are also with President Bola Tinubu for a second term. That is the reality on the ground in Ekiti State.

    Some aspirants claim that names of their loyalists were deliberately omitted from the APC membership register to weaken their chances. What’s your response?

    I heard of such claims for the first time and I responded. Even in my constituency, someone was online making noise. You can be very loud online but not carry political weight. This person was causing trouble on social media. I interjected because I knew him—we attended the same primary school. The last time I checked, he was in the SDP. I asked: how come? He said, “I am free to belong to any association.” I kept quiet. That is just a tip of the iceberg.

    The truth is some people left the APC when former Governor Segun Oni contested under SDP. Maybe they forgot to return. They are not in the APC register. Some of them tried to come back and asked for identity cards, but party leaders rightly question their membership status. That is exactly what happened. It is not a case of exclusion. It’s simply the consequence of their earlier decisions. Politics has rules, and one cannot eat their cake and still expect to have it.

    What are Governor Oyebanji’s chances in both the APC primary and the 2026 general election?

    The chances are very high. For party core and critical stakeholders, we are looking beyond the scheduled primary of October 27 because that is a done deal. We are already looking towards June 2026. Governor Oyebanji will fly the APC flag for a second term, and he will not only win, but win massively, in a record-breaking way.

    I did research about Governor Babatunde Fashola in Lagos for my PhD in 2012. Part of the findings was that in that election, he scored over 80%, one of the widest margins in Nigerian history. Based on current realities, Governor Oyebanji has the goodwill, the performance record, and the support base to surpass that record. I see him scoring up to 90% in that election.

  • Tinubu assures northern Christians of fairness

    Tinubu assures northern Christians of fairness

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fairness among Nigeria’s diverse religious communities, pledging to unite the country under a shared vision of peace and prosperity.

    Speaking at the headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Jos, Plateau State, Tinubu told Christian leaders from Northern Nigeria that his government is dedicated to ensuring justice and inclusivity for all citizens regardless of faith.

    According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said: “I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress”. 

    He urged clerics to have faith in his leadership, adding that religious harmony remains essential to national stability. 

    “As leaders, we have the responsibility to manage religious issues for the benefit of all,” he added.

    Tinubu also assured the gathering that his administration is determined to end insecurity and criminality. 

    “We are defeating bandits, and we will defeat them. We will deal with them and combat the farmers-herders clashes,” he declared, noting that ongoing economic reforms are being executed to benefit every Nigerian.

    The President was in Jos to attend the funeral prayers for Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who died at the age of 83. 

    Paying tribute to the late matriarch, Tinubu described her as “a devoted mother and humanitarian.”

    “In our family, we have a strong Muslim background, and I married a Christian, a pastor for that matter, and I have never forced her to change her religion,” the President said, stressing his belief in mutual respect and coexistence.

    He recalled his political journey through Jos during the Social Democratic Party (SDP) era and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return as President to honour the late Mrs. Yilwatda.

    Yilwatda described his late mother as a resilient woman who lived on medication for 47 years yet worked tirelessly for her family and community. 

    Read Also: OSAS IGHODARO: Relocating to Nigeria my boldest risk

    He thanked the President for attending the funeral and for the trust reposed in him as APC chairman.

    Reverend Dr Amos Mohzo, President and Spiritual Leader of COCIN, lauded President Tinubu for appointing Northern Christians to key national positions, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Professor Yilwatda. 

    He also praised the administration’s attention to insecurity in Plateau and Benue States and appealed for more support for displaced Christian communities.

    Mohzo pledged the Church’s support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his efforts toward peace and national development.

    Dignitaries at the event included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

    Others were former SGF Boss Mustapha, former governors Tanko Al-Makura, Adamu Mu’azu, Fidelis Tapgun, Yahaya Bello, and Rochas Okorocha, as well as lawmakers, ministers, and members of the APC National Working Committee.

  • I never said Buhari was linked to Boko Haram, Jonathan clarifies

    I never said Buhari was linked to Boko Haram, Jonathan clarifies

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has refuted media reports claiming he accused the late former President Muhammadu Buhari of having ties with Boko Haram, describing the allegations as “false and misleading.”

    In a statement on Saturday by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan clarified that his recent remarks at the launch of Scars — a book written by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (rtd) — were taken out of context.

    He explained that he merely referenced a past incident in which Boko Haram named Buhari among individuals it wanted to represent them in peace talks, noting that this was part of the group’s deceptive tactics and not an indication of any connection between Buhari and the insurgents.

    “At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,” the statement reads.

    “His remarks were made to illustrate the deviousness and manipulative strategies employed by Boko Haram in their early years.”

    Read Also: How NIMC is building Nigeria’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

    The former president emphasised that the mention of Buhari’s name by the insurgents was one of several false claims made by factions pretending to represent Boko Haram at the time.

    “Boko Haram often invoked the names of respected public figures to sow confusion, exploit political divisions, and undermine public confidence in government,” Eze added.

    Jonathan’s office further questioned why, if Buhari was truly the group’s chosen negotiator, Boko Haram did not end its violent campaign after he became president.

    “Dr. Jonathan recognises that President Muhammadu Buhari, like every patriotic Nigerian, stood firmly against terrorism and was himself a target of Boko Haram violence,” the statement continued.

    Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard the misrepresentation, reaffirming his continued commitment to national peace, unity, and democratic stability.

  • My governorship ambition for interest of Oyo people – Adelabu

    My governorship ambition for interest of Oyo people – Adelabu

    The Minister of Power and All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has said his gubernatorial ambition is in the interest of people in the State.

    Adelabu said his passion to serve was borne out of love for the poor, less privileged and people across the State.

    Speaking while addressing APC leaders, stakeholders and members of the party in Oke-Ogun zone 2 of the state, Adelabu said if given chance to be the Governor in 2027, he would work towards the progress and development of the State.

    Oke-Ogun zone 2 consist six local government areas of Oorelope local government, Saki East, Saki West, Olorunsogo, Irepo and Atisbo. 

    The Minister, who was accompanied by brother of late former Governor, Alhaji Wasiu Ajimobi, Hon. Abiodun Ambali, Alhaji Wale Sanusi, Alhaji Kola Amoo, Alhaji Fatai Adesokan and others emphasised on unity of the party ahead of next election.

    He said: “United APC owns Oyo State, PDP is a tenant in Agodi Government House, a divided house can never be victorious, APC will regain Oyo State in 2027.

    Read Also: Adelabu seeks training for power sector

    “There should be internal democracy in our party and this start from our upcoming congress, I want to assure you that no one will impose any candidate on us, our party should unite and stand as one.”

    The Minster met some APC leaders in Saki including Alhaji Sulaimon Ajibade (Saki West Local government), Alhaji Hamed Ayinla (Olorunsogo local government), Alhaji Balogun Mayor Alagbada (Saki East Local government) and Chief Lateef Ajemeje (Atisbo Local government) among others.

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    Member representing Saki West, Saki East and Atisbo federal constituency, Hon. Kareem Abisodun, who requested intervention of the Minister over power in the zone, lauded the giant stride of the Minster in the sector across Nigeria, saying Adelabu’s efforts in Power Ministry can not be overemphasised.

    He vowed that people in the six local government will support and vote massively for the party come 2027 so that APC can come back to power in the State.

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  • 2027: North central’s agitations for presidency

    2027: North central’s agitations for presidency

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027. He is from the Southwest.

    Also, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has zoned its presidential ticket to the South, although there is still controversy over the push for micro-zoning.

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is yet to open talks on zoning. But discerning Nigerians know that the camp that came out of the PDP split is better described as ‘Atiku Democratic Congress,’ because the former vice president who is the lead visioner of the inexplicable coalition is likely to be the presidential candidate. The eminent politician is from the Northeast.

    The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) of Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso appears to be in a fix. A section is rooting for mass defection to the APC from where the former Kano State governor defected some nine years ago. But notable figures are resisting his move to return to base. All presidential candidates covert the highly populous and electorally viable Kano.

    If Kwankwaso stays on in NNPP, he would be firing arrows from a weak point.

    Labour Party (LP) is still in disarray, the judgment that affirmed the leadership of the National Caretaker Committee (NCC) headed by Senator Esther Nenadi-Usman notwithstanding. The party is the best bet for Peter Obi, who is from the Southeast.

    The question is: what are the Northcentral groups, which are also agitating for the presidency, up to as the country warms up for 2027?

    If each of the six geo-political zones could have its way, the target is the presidency, the towering base of power and influence. Thus, their leading lights are building up arguments and justifications for rotation and power shift.

    The NorthCentral is not left out. Leading the agitation in the region is the Northcentral Renaissance Movement (NCRM), a coalition that has called on the major political parties in the country to cede the presidential ticket or at most, the vice presidential slot to the region during the next general election.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s prosperity inseparable from North’s future, says Tinubu

    The movement has also declared that APC, PDP and ADC will lose votes from the zone if they fail to acede their demand.

    Its chairman and convener, Professor K’tso Nghargbu, urged other geo-political zones to support the Northcentral quest for presidency.

    The grouse of the zone, according to the campaigners, is that it has never produced an elected president and vice president since independence.

    According to members of the movement, the last time the region produced a president was between 1967 and 2975 when Gen. Yakubu Gowon from Plateau was military Head of State and between 1985 and 1993 when Gen. Ibrahim Babangida was military president. Both were not elected.

    Other former Nigerian leaders are President Nnamdi Azikiwe (Southeast), Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Northeast), Muritala Mohammed (Northwest), Olusegun Obasanjo (Southwest), Sheu Shagari(Northwest), Muhammadu Buhari (Northwest), Ernest Shonekan (Southwest), Umaru Yar’Adua (Northwest), and Goodluck Jonathan (Southsouth).

    The vice presidents are: Alex Ekwueme (Southeast), Atiku Abubakar (Northwest), Jonathan (Southsouth), Namadi Sambo (Northwest), Yemi Osinbajo (Southwest) and Kashim Shettima (Northeast).

    The grouse of the Northcentral is thst in this Fourth Republic, it has neither produced either the president or vice president.

    The understanding of zoning is that power should rotate between the North (Northwest, Northeast and Northcentral) and South (Southwest, Southeast and Southsouth). This means, according to observers, that Northcentral can only push for micro-zoning when the slot is zoned go the bloc North.

    The Northcentral is made up of six states – Niger, Kogi, Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa and Kwara State. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, is also part of the zone.

    Nghargbu said the current ‘zoning understanding’ has led to the marginalisation of the Northcentral. He said the region is blessed with enormous political resources to solve the leadership challenges confronting the country, especially in the face of the growing bitterness between the far northern political elite and their counterparts from the South.

    He said apart from experienced politicians and leaders like Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, who has signified interest to contest for the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the PDP, other top politicians from the zone will be joining the race.

    The university don, who spoke with reporters in Abuja, said: “Today, we found it dutiful, an act of responsibility towards our people to once more make an appeal to the fact that the North Central geo-political zone seeks, makes requests, makes demand that political parties should cede or rather consider giving a political human capital or human resource from North Central geopolitical zone their presidential ticket.

    “This is important, given the growing disaffection now I’m talking about the political class, growing resentment, growing suspicion, growing bitterness between the northern political elites and their counterparts from the southern part of Nigeria. Once again, the North Central zone surfaces or emerges as the best solution towards national unity.

    “We are appealing to the five other geopolitical zones, and especially the major political parties in Nigeria that they consider giving their presidential ticket to people from the North Central geopolitical zone. We say this with all sense of stewardship to the great country called Nigeria, without any prejudice towards national upliftment and development.”

    He added: “We say this not as a threat, but emphatically that any political party that despises and continues to despise our position will also be despised by our votes. So Nigerians, Nigerian voting populace, Nigerian political elite, and of course, the major political parties, once again we reiterate that patronising us means having our votes.

    “Despising us means losing our votes. I want to believe that we have spoken adequately to the political conscience of Nigeria, which begs for more peace, tranquilly, and prosperity.” Nghargbu supported for the move to entrench the independent candidacy in the Constitution, saying it will provide opportunity for aspirants who are denied tickets by political parties to pursue their ambitions independently.

    He stressed: “The independent candidature is one of the answers. It is one of the solutions that Nigeria is looking towards, checking the excesses of political parties that are money-drunk and godfather-drunk. Let me put it that way. So, the North Central movement is very much in support of the inclusion of independent candidates in the Constitution.”

    The group has not elaborated on what it would do that that would affect the chances of parties that ignores its call.

    Nghargbu merely warned that “any political party that ignores the call will pay at the polls.”

    He added: “Patronising us means having our votes. Despising us means losing our votes.”

  • Ododo: I am committed to public welfare

    Ododo: I am committed to public welfare

    Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo has said that he is committed to the welfare of the people.

    He flagged off a series of sweeping reforms with the launch of expanded health insurance coverage, revitalization of primary healthcare centres across the state, and new incentives for medical personnel.

     Ododo described the initiatives as “a major step towards making quality healthcare accessible, affordable, and sustainable for every Kogite.” He assured that his administration remains committed to strengthening healthcare infrastructure while prioritizing the welfare of health workers.

    In line with this commitment, the governor announced a N300,000 allowance for medical doctors posted to rural areas of the state to encourage service in hard-to-reach communities. He also revealed plans to sponsor the training of 100 medical doctors annually in partnership with the Federal University, Lokoja; Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba; and the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, as part of government’s long-term strategy to address manpower gaps in the health sector.

    Ododo further disclosed that doctors’ quarters would be built in strategic parts of the state, while qualified Kogites would continue to benefit from new appointments into the healthcare system.

    Read Also: Okai commends Ododo for deploying securities to Ayingba–Itobe road in Kogi

    While assuring support to health professionals, the Governor stressed that security remains critical to the wellbeing of citizens. He raised concerns over the security risks posed by trailer parks at Zariagi and Osara, which, according to intelligence reports, had become hideouts for criminal elements disguised as truck drivers.

    The Governor gave operators of the parks a one-month grace period to vacate the locations, after which no trailer will be allowed to park there or in any other unauthorized area of the state, particularly during hours prohibited by law. He directed security agencies to ensure full enforcement of the order, saying the measure is necessary to deny criminals any safe haven and strengthen security operations across Kogi State.

    Governor Ododo expressed gratitude to development partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, CIHP, AHF, Malaria Consortium, and Marie Stopes International, for their support in improving healthcare delivery in Kogi State.

    Reaffirming his administration’s focus on people-centred governance, the governor said: “Together, we are building a Kogi State where good health is a right, not a privilege; where security is guaranteed, and where every citizen has a fair chance to live, work, and prosper”.

  • ‘ADC will spring surprise in Anambra’

    ‘ADC will spring surprise in Anambra’

    The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Anambra State, John Chuma Nwosu, spoke with reporters on his plans for the state and chances at the poll. EMMANUEL OLADESU reports

    It is barely one month to the Anambra State governorship poll. Why is the opposition alleging that there is a gradual weakening of purposeful governance in the state?

    Let me tell you this. Anambra people are very angry.  They are agitating against Soludo’s government, with audacity.  Social media messages directed at the governor are many. Each emphasises discontent, disappointment, and deep concerns about insecurity.   There are also complaints about the high-handedness of government agents with ample evidence of brutality. 

    Clearly, governance has gone to the dogs. And that’s the truth. In this day and age, you don’t use rough club-stick methods to collect taxes when technology apps exist for that purpose.

    Based on our findings, we urge Nigerians to take active interest in the Anambra State governorship election to see how far the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has improved in its election management strategies.

    They should not be distracted by the impending exit of the INEC chairman, Professor Yakubu Mahmood, and how his successor would emerge, but show the greater interest in how the commission itself as an institution has matured with the rich lessons it has gathered from periodic elections since 1999.

    Are you among those who claim that Enugu and Abia governors are showing measurable impacts of performance?

    Good governance is about visible service delivery and the responsibility to protect the citizens. Both are anchored on the people being satisfied enough to trust the government and benefitting from measurable and sustainable development. Both are also confidence building measures. Without any doubt, Anambra is distantly behind Enugu and Abia in terms of comparative governance, service delivery, and project execution. As an Anambra citizen and politician, I’m deeply saddened. Ndi Anambra, generally, are not happy with Soludo’s performance after nearly four years. A second term for him will be rewarding underperformance and hollow promises.

      In line with my offer to serve out the remaining four years available for Anambra South, I have been talking to our people about how the ADC government will kick of by focusing on the two issues of greatest concern to our dear state, namely, insecurity and over taxation.

    And, you may wish to know that coming from the private sector like Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, I believe that governing a commercial state such as Anambra State requires determination, planning and focus to achievement results within two years.

    So, we leading our people to become very conversant with ADC’s SHEEEMS developmental model for Anambra State and they are eager to begin to see evidence of good governance from day one instead of boastful grammar and street side banters.

    You have toured the 177 communities in Anambra State. What is your impression?

    Governance and infrastructural decay are evident.  There seems to be no maintenance culture.  Roads, and public facilities are all crumbling. Even new roads are below standard. Many are being washed away daily.  Many building are also collapsing, as never before. So enforcement of regulations is very lax.   But insecurity concerns dominate most communities. Several are under siege.  Generally, there is no simultaneous development, across board. These factors alone compel leadership change.

      I could with every sense of modesty that among the gladiators, the people disclosed that only the ADC as a party that was speaking to the issues without maligning anybody. With that revelation I am aware that when we are sworn in as governor on March 17, 2026, Anambra people have something to hold us to account and put our feet to the fire.

      Between rediscovery or recovery, which do you propose for the state?I dare say, both.  Under Soludo, his penchant for cosmetics aside, Anambra is a shadow of itself. So we need to rediscover the state both in terms of quality of life, and governance. We also need recovery from the frightening and deplorable state of insecurity under Soludo’s watch.  Since the era of Bakassi, it has never been this bad. One of my campaign mantra is, let’s secure Anambra again.

    How is the campaign going?

      I will tell you. It was the governor who declared that progressives, that is All Progressives Congress (APC) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) are working together, by which he means that APC and APGA have become one, that is APCGA.

      And, indeed, they are united in their record of disappointment for the Anambra people, especially in the area of security and citizens’ welfare. So, the balloting on November 8 has become very east for our people, because they have the ADC as the credible alternative.

    Read Also: No discussion yet on zoning in ADC, says Abdullahi

    Our seven-point SHEEEMS agenda is an assured social contract that guarantees focused attention on Security Health Education Economy, Environment Markets and Social Welfare for the people. What is more, ADC parades a balanced religious ticket comprising a catholic and an Anglican, because my running mate, Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu, an Anglican comes from Anambra Central Senatorial Zone.

    Together, we satisfy the zoning arrangement that guides the distribution of political offices among the three Senatorial Districts of the state.

    How far do you think that your SHEEEMS agenda can go to rekindle hope in governance in Anambra State?

    SHEEEMS, acronym for security, health, education, economy, environment, markets and social welfare, is a holistic governance, service delivery and simultaneous development strategy targeted at every LGA and every community.  It ensures that no community is left behind and impacts every facets of personal and community life. We are inclined to adopting and adapting to best practices. SHEEEMS seek to replicate the ANIDS governance model. It will offer policy and project ownership to Ndi Anambra.  For instance, the traditional rulers, and presidents-general will participate in the state budget formulation forum, as it pertains to projects in their respective communities. Only them can prioritize their needs.  Such modalities ought to rekindle hope, transparency, trust, and excellence.

    What impact do you intend to make in one term of four years, what approach do you intend to undertake to achieve those lofty goals?

    First, with my commitment to do only one term, I will not have the undue burden of re-election.  My focus is to leave an indelible legacy and provide a solid foundation for continuity regardless of who succeeds me.  

      Our budgetary processes, policies, programmes and projects, will all be results-based, and in the public domain.  Transparency and accountability will be prioritized.  We are not going to start new projects, if there are abandoned or incomplete projects that can be done at lower costs.   Whatever we do, will be enhanced by seamless deployment of AI and hightect.

    We will lay greater emphasis on cutting the cost of governance and doing more with less. Naturally, we will partner with development partners, as well as domestic and foreign investors. To make these possible, our first priority is to secure Anambra, make it safe and create an enabling environment.

    Anambra North Senatorial District holds the ace as the kingmaker and decider of the November 8 poll. Has ADC done enough in that axis?

    We have constructively, respectfully, and quietly engaged prominent stakeholders in Anambra North.  This includes leaders of faith-based institutions, traditional rulers, and captains of industry.  I’m from Anambra South.  My deputy, Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu, is from Anambra central. 

       So, the interests of our respective zones are catered for. We, therefore, need to assure Anambra North that they have a vested interest in becoming the undisputed kingmakers.  Look at it this way, out of respect for zoning, a majority of the candidates are from the Anambra South. Likewise, a majority of the deputies.

       I am among those who think that the votes of those zones will be shared.  The Anambra North bloc votes will go to the candidate that Anambra North people, especially parts of disenfranchised Anambra North, can trust. 

    What has Soludo done for the people of Aguleri Otu or Ogwu Ikpele? These are the two oil producing communities in Anambra. Even as host communities, they have no roads and enjoy limited government presence. It is in the interest of Anambra North bloc to support ADC and, in doing so, pivot to the national framework in due course.

    There have been concerns that ADC and Labour Party may split their votes if the candidates of the two parties do not unite behind a common candidate in line with the coalition designs. What can you say about that postulation?

    Vote splitting is a possibility.  But the ADC is not in crisis like the LP.   Indeed, does the LP have an authentic candidate, as per the recent Supreme Court ruling pertaining to the leadership of that party?  Look, I don’t want to be distracted by other people’s problems.  ADC is the national coalition party.  Others may wish to join us. When they arrive, we will already be seated at the table.  That’s the fact.

    Would former Governor Peter Obi’s support for any candidate in the election be a plus or minus?

    With due respect, I would rather not be drawn into such a controversy.  The facts speak for themselves. Only His Excellency, Peter Obi, can speak to his game plan.   From media reports, he aligned with ADC from the very start. He also seems to be still entrenched in very fractured LP.  He has publicly campaigned for ADC and LP candidates.  I can’t tell a master politician how to make his bed.  Neither can I speak on issues of electoral assets and liabilities. I try to avoid undue controversies.