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  • I never said I will step down for another aspirant-Atiku

    I never said I will step down for another aspirant-Atiku

    Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has denied media reports suggesting that he planned to step down from the 2027 presidential. Election for another aspirant. In a statement by his Media aide, Paul Ibe, the former Vice President 

    insisted that such reports were based on a distortion of his recent interview with the Hausa Service of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). 

    He said that his comment tht he would support any young candidate that defeat him in the primaries was being misconstrued. 

    The statement reads: “It has become necessary to clarify certain misrepresentations arising from the reportage of an interview granted by His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, to the BBC Hausa Service by some sections of the media.

    “After a thorough review of both the video and transcripts of the interview – in the original Hausa and the English translation – it is evident that at no point did the former Vice President expressly state, suggest, or even imply that he intends to step down for anyone.

    Read Also: ‘Tinubu has rekindled faith in a prosperous Nigeria’

    “What Atiku Abubakar clearly and unambiguously said was that young people, as well as other prospective presidential aspirants, are free to enter the contest. 

    “He further stressed that if a young candidate were to emerge through a competitive primary, he would readily support such a candidate without any hesitation.

    “While interpretative journalism is a legitimate aspect of reporting, stretching interpretation to the point of mischief is unacceptable and must not be encouraged.

    “For the records, therefore, the insinuations attributed to the Waziri Adamawa from his BBC Hausa interview are inaccurate and do not reflect what he actually said”.

  • Governors, Atiku, Jibrin, Kalu, Mark, Fayemi: Nigeria’s challenges surmountable

    Governors, Atiku, Jibrin, Kalu, Mark, Fayemi: Nigeria’s challenges surmountable

    • Peace, unity, resilience needed to attain greater heights, they say

    State governors yesterday challenged Nigerians to reflect on Nigeria’s journey to nationhood and renew their commitment to building a prosperous country.

    The governors– Dikko  Radda(Katsina), Sheriff Oborevwori(Delta),  Hyacinth  Alia ( Benue)  and  Bala Mohammed(Bauchi) — in their separate messages   to mark the country’s 65 Independence today, noted that in spite of political, economic and security challenges, Nigeria is making progress.

    They assured that there is light at the end of  tunnel as exemplified by the many positives of the ongoing reforms  by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government.

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Deputy Senate  President   Barau Jibrin; Deputy House of Representatives Speaker Benjamin Kalu;  African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman  David Mark; former Governor of Ekiti State Kayode Fayemi and   Chairman of the Southern Senators Forum, Tokunbo Abiru, also congratulated Nigerians on the occasion.They called for peace, unity and resilience by Nigerians.

    In Asaba,   Governor  Oborevwori urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their commitment to building a stronger and more united nation, noting that the economy has improved tremendousy.

    In a message signed by his spokesman Festus Ahon, Oborevwori rallied Nigerians to continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as well as his administration’s “MORE Agenda”, which, he said, were designed to improve the living standards of the people.

    The governor said his government was investing in massive infrastructure upgrades across the state, advancing a power revolution through a renewable energy mix, and creating an enabling environment to attract foreign direct investments.

    Governor  Radda  described the anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s  journey since October 1, 1960 till today.

    Urging  every citizen  to partner governments at all levels against insecurity, he expressed optimism that the nation  would overcome its present difficulties through collective efforts.

       The governor, who lauded President  Tinubu for prioritising security in the country, said: “As we celebrate 65 years of independence, we must recognise that nation-building is a shared responsibility.

    ‘’The security challenges confronting our dear nation require all hands on the deck.

      ‘’Citizens must partner with governments at all levels in combating insecurity, as security agencies alone cannot win the battle without citizens’ cooperation.

    “I urge every Nigerian, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation, to see security as everyone’s business. Report suspicious movements, provide credible intelligence  and support our security personnel in their efforts to keep us safe.“

    Governor Alia donates to orphans

      Benue Governor Alia  paid special attention to  orphans and vulnerable children in the state by donating food stuffs , cows and non-food items to them.

    The beneficiaries are   children of Mary Orphanage and Motherless Baby Home in Otukpo Local Government and the NKST Orphanage at Mkar, Gboko Local Government. The gesture will be   extended to more orphanage homes across the state.

    The governor, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Internal Affairs and Special Services,   Paul Okoh, explained that  the donations  were borne out of the governor’s  love  for the less privileged. 

    He said: “We are here at the instance of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev.Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

    Bauchi governor plans investment summit

    Mohammed, reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, as Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

    In a goodwill message, the governor described the nation’s independence as a landmark moment that gave Nigerians the right to self-determination and growth.

    He urged citizens to reflect on whether the vision of the country’s founding fathers had been fully realised.

    “Though our development trajectory may not match that of some countries that gained independence around the same period, particularly the Asian Tigers, Nigeria has made significant strides in governing itself, managing diversity and uniting towards nation-building,” Mohammed said.

    The governor noted that the prolonged era of military rule slowed democratic progress, but expressed optimism that 26 years of uninterrupted democracy had begun to yield dividends of good governance.

    Highlighting his administration’s priorities, Mohammed said Bauchi would host an Investment Summit on October 8 and 9, to woo investors and harness the state’s economic potential.

    He said peace remained the foundation for development, pledging to deepen collaboration with security agencies to protect lives and property.

    “I appeal to citizens to support security efforts by reporting suspicious movements or persons to relevant authorities,” he added.

    The governor urged Bauchi residents to rededicate themselves to unity, prayer and peaceful coexistence for the collective progress of the state and Nigeria.

    “As we celebrate this 65th Independence Anniversary, let us continue to work together in harmony, with hope in our hearts and faith in Almighty Allah, to make our state and country greater,” he said.

    Atiku to Nigerians: keep hope alive

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has commended the uncommon patience, endurance and resilience of Nigerians in holding the country together despite the socio-economic and security challenges.

    In his Independence Day message released by his Media Aide Paul Ibe yesterday in Abuja, Atiku wished Nigerians a happy 65th Independence Day anniversary.

     He urged Nigerians to keep hope alive, saying with the right leadership, the country can still rise to reclaim its rightful place among the comity of nations.

    The one-time vice president said that despite of the immense human and material resources the country was blessed with, millions of Nigerians was still faced with challenges.

    He called on Nigerians not to lose faith but to look forward to a better tomorrow.

    “The beauty of democracy lies in the power of the ballot,” adding “that is the power no cabal can take away from the people.”

    Barau felicitates Nigerians

    Deputy Senate President  Jibrin  urged Nigerians to remain united and see beyond the current challenges facing the country.

    He  pointed out  that what is uppermost now is for all to accord President Tinubu the needed support as he propels the nation to prosperity.

    In a message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Jibrin  appealed to Nigerians  to remain resolute in promoting national unity, offering support and prayers for the government to turn the country’s fortunes around. 

    According to him, the benefits of President Tinubu’s economic reforms are beginning to manifest, and security has improved considerably over the last two years.

    “Fellow Nigerians, as  we celebrate the 65th Independence  of our beloved country, we must remember the enormous sacrifices made by our founding fathers: Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello and Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, among others, and recommit ourselves to the ideals they stood for, including the promotion of national unity, peace, justice, and tolerance.

    Read Also: Independence Day: Kachikwu urges leaders to fulfill Nigeria’s hopes

    Abiru: This is not the time to give up

    The Chairman of the Southern Senators’ Forum,  Adetokunbo Abiru, said the 65th Independence Anniversaty is a celebration of resilience and an enduring spirit.

    He noted that despite the economic, social, and political hurdles, Nigeria remains a beacon of hope on the African continent.

    Abiru said: “Our diversity — with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages — is our greatest asset. Under the green-and-white flag, we must continue to strengthen our unity, guard against actions that deepen our national fault lines, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building.”

    He added: “I equally appeal to all Nigerians to continue to stand solidly with our esteemed leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he provides bold and focused leadership that is clearly redirecting our country toward enduring sustainable development and economic growth.

    “The administration’s major policies have already begun to yield positive results. The harmonization of the foreign exchange market, among other laudable reforms, has helped to curb spiraling inflation, boost investor confidence, and lay the groundwork for a stable economic environment where enterprises can thrive — ultimately leading to shared prosperity.

    This is not the time to give up on Nigeria. It

    “Let us continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to actualise his policies and programmes as encapsulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda. He has good intentions for the country. We will get it right.”

    Nigeria making progress, says Kalu

    Deputy Speaker Kalu said that despite the challenges facing the nation, Nigeria was gradually progressing to greatness.

    He  congratulated President Tinubu and Nigerians on the occasion  and  urged  every citizen  to rekindle their hope and renew commitment towards building a nation that benefits everyone.

    While emphasising the significance of the Renewed Hope Agenda, initiated by the  President, Kalu encouraged Nigerians to remain patient and work together in harnessing their diversity, resilience, and determination for the development of the country.

     He said: “As we celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence  , we reflect on our nation’s journey, achievements, and challenges. This milestone reminds us of the sacrifices made by our forebears and the collective efforts towards nation-building.

     “As we mark this significant day, let’s rekindle our hope, renew our commitment, and work tirelessly towards building a Nigeria that reflects the dreams of our founding fathers. Together, we can achieve greatness.

    Mark to Nigerians: Remain resilient

      ADC National Chairman Mark, reflected on the country’s  65  years of nationhood, describing the journey as one of resilience in the face of daunting challenges.

    He acknowledged that the nation has gone through many trials and emphasised that Nigerians must not lose faith in their collective ability to rebuild and reposition the country for prosperity.

      Mark consequently  advised Nigerians  to draw strength from history and confront present realities with courage and unity.

    He said: “Sixty-five years ago, we lifted the flag of freedom and declared ourselves a sovereign people. That moment was not just the end of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our responsibility to build a nation worthy of our hopes.

    “Today, we look back with mixed emotions and gratitude for how far we have come, but concerned over the storms that still threaten our future.”

    He noted that the country stands at a critical juncture, weighed down by insecurity, unemployment, inflation, food scarcity, and the collapse of industries.

    “Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youths are losing hope to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings, while factories close and businesses relocate, leaving despair in their wake. Families struggle daily to put food on the table. These are harsh truths we cannot deny,” Mark, a former Deputy Senate President,  lamented.

    Despite these difficulties,  Mark  stressed that Nigerians must not give in to despair. He reminded them  that the great nations of today were also built through periods of severe hardships.

    On security, he called for urgent investment in intelligence, modern technology, and the welfare of security personnel while addressing the deeper causes of violence, poverty, injustice, and exclusion.

    He  urged  revival of local industries, stronger support for small and medium-scale businesses, and an environment where investment can flourish as ways to buoy the economy.

    On youth empowerment, Mark advocated equipping young people with relevant skills in technology, agriculture, innovation, and the creative sector beyond mere tokenism.

     Above all, he called for a rebirth of unity and sacrifice; the same spirit that won independence in 1960.

    He added: “No nation is ever too broken to be rebuilt when her people are determined. At 65, our burdens are real, but so is our resilience.

    ‘’Our hope must outweigh our despair, and our strength must carry us forward. Let us recover faith in our nation, work hand- in-hand  and rebuild the promise of Nigeria.”

    Mark further enjoined Nigerians to embrace the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) as the party of choice and a credible platform that upholds democratic values.

    He assured that if entrusted with the responsibility of leadership, the ADC would rebuild the nation and restore hope to its citizens.

    Fayemi tasks leaders

    Fayemi urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of past generations, while committing themselves to building a more prosperous, just  and inclusive nation.

     He also called  on leaders at all levels to provide visionary and selfless leadership that will inspire hope and confidence in the Nigerian project. The former governor  noted  in a statement  by the Head of Fayemi Media Office,   Ahmad Sajoh,  that  trials and triumphs have marked Nigeria’s journey since independence in 1960.

    He  added that what has kept the country going is the  resilience of its people.

     His words: “Our strength as a nation lies in our diversity and our determination to build a better tomorrow .

     “Though we have faced challenges, our ability to rise above adversity gives hope that Nigeria’s best days are ahead.”

    Fayemi stressed the importance of promoting peace and harmony among all ethnic and religious groups, noting that the Nigeria’s diversity is an asset rather than a weakness.

    “At a time like this, we must resist all attempts to divide us along ethnic or sectional lines. We are stronger together, and only through unity can we achieve the greatness that our founding fathers envisioned.

    “As we celebrate this Independence anniversary, let us renew our faith in Nigeria and in one another. Let us continue to work for peace, progress, and national unity.

    ‘’With unity, understanding, and resilience, we will overcome our present difficulties and create a brighter future for generations yet unborn.” 

    Lagos Assembly hails President’s passion, dedication

    The Lagos State House of Assembly has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to the ideals of a better Nigeria.

    It also applauded the National Assembly and its leadership for standing strong and tall for the betterment of the country, urging them to keep the flag of democracy flying.

    Moving a Motion Under Matter of Urgent Public Importance, House Majority Leader Noheem Adams commended the President for his contributions to the national development.

    The lawmaker highlighted part of the President’s achievements as fuel subsidy removal which helped in stabilizing External Reserves, boosting investors’ confidence and improving external economic standing.

    He also listed infrastructural development which includes major road projects and the Lagos – Calabar Coastal Highway.

    Other Lawmakers took turns to reflect on challenges that the country has faced in terms of ethnic divide, military coups, Nigeria civil war, economic underdevelopment and controversial consensus from 1962 to 1963.

  • War against piracy: Suspected thugs attack NCC taskforce in Ogun 

    War against piracy: Suspected thugs attack NCC taskforce in Ogun 

    Suspected thugs on Thursday, attacked and prevented a Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) taskforce from carrying out their operation at a book market in Sagamu, Ogun.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the enforcement team had raided two bookshops inside the bustling Sabo market in Sagamu, confiscated books and sealed the shops.

    However, suspected thugs were mobilised to resist the team and stop them from removing the confiscated books.

    After serious threats from the thugs, the NCC team had to release the confiscated books before they were allowed to leave the scene.

    Speaking to newsmen after the incident, Mrs Oluropo Oke, State Coordinator, NCC, Ibadan Office, expressed sadness over the incident.

    Oke emphasised that winning the war against piracy requires sustained efforts, warning that those obstructing arrests would face consequences and prosecution.

    “In the course of evacuating of pirated books and sealed shops, the shop owner’s husband organised a group of boys to come and attack us.

    “We can win the war against piracy with continued fight against it and one day we will succeed .

    “The position of the law is that they will be arrested, prosecuted accordingly. The commission is under the federal ministry of justice and all that perpetrated the blockage of arrest will face the consequence,” she said.

    The state coordinator said that other operations conducted within Sagamu were successful, explaining that a bookshop with pirated books at Akarigbo junction was sealed.

    “We will carry out our sorting of the books to determine how many copies were pirated and how many are original.

    “Whatever the case; whether it has one or two pirated books, the bookshop owner will surely face the wrath of the law,” she said.

    Oke warned that pirated books would harm the economy, promote substandard goods, stifle creativity, and deter authors from writing.

    NAN also reports that men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) who accompanied the NCC officials for the operation were civil in handling the situation.

    (NAN)

  • Olubadan: Tinubu, Atiku, Kwakwanso, others to grace Ladoja’s coronation

    Olubadan: Tinubu, Atiku, Kwakwanso, others to grace Ladoja’s coronation

    • How June 12 struggle crippled monarch’s business empire —Akintola

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwakwanso are among the host of dignitaries expected at the coronation of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja.

    Both Tinubu and Ladoja served at the Senate during the aborted third Republic. Bedsides, Tinubu was serving his second term as Lagos State governor at the time Ladoja served as the governor of Oyo State.

    The erstwhile Senator and governor of Oyo State is billed for installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland next Friday at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.

    Receiving some visitors who came to paid him courtesy visits at his Bodija residence, Oba Ladoja had hinted that President Tinubu and other top dignitaries had reached out to him and promised to be in attendance at his coronation.

    Read Also: CCII rallies Ibadan indigenes for Ladoja’s coronation

    Chairman of the Coronation Committee of the 44th Olubadan, Chief Bayo Oyero, speaking with journalists during a press conference held at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, also confirmed that President Tinubu and other eminent personalities would be in attendance at the coronation.

    Oyero described the installation of Ladoja as the new Olubadan as something of great cultural and historical significance, adding that the installation will not just be a coronation but also a reaffirmation of the unique and timeless chieftaincy system of Ibadanland.

    He said Ibadan succession process is a testament to its democratic and orderly tradition; a system that has ensured peace and stability for generation.

     He said: “The ascension of Oba Ladoja is a journey of many years back, a path meticulously followed and guided by the wisdom of the ancestors.”

    He noted that Ladoja, being a former Senator, Governor, and now Olubadan, will be equipped with unique understanding of the grassroots to the corridor of power.

    He said Ibadan people are confident that Ladoja would bring his wealth of experience to the throne, leading Ibadanland into a new era of progress, peace and prosperity.

    In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters in the state, Hon. Ademola Ojo, described the Olubadan stool as a revered one and a source of cultural pride and identity not just to Ibadan but Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

    He said Ladoja’s coronation signified unity, peace and fundamental celebration of Yoruba heritage.

    He thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for his exemplary leadership and respect for traditional institution.

    In attendance at the event was the President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole; Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun; Ekeerin Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Hamidu Ajibade; Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiatives (ICPI), Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade and media aide to the Olubadan designate, Adeola Oloko, among others.

    How June 12 struggle crippled monarch’s business empire —Akintola

     A legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Niyi Akintola, yesterday narrated how the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, used his money to finance the activities of the June 12 pro-democracy movement and National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).

     The support, he said, affected Ladoja’s businesses and made it suffer serious setbacks.

     Akinola, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, said Ladoja’s financial contribution to the movement remains unknown to many people.

     He spoke while featuring on a popular Yoruba programme known as “Gbagede Oselu,” monitored on the state owned Television station, Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Ibadan.

     Ladoja, according to him, joined the pro-democracy movement after the late Gen. Sani Abacha led military junta seized power in 1983.

     The monarch, prior to this time, represented Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly

     Akintola recalled that during the period, Ladoja had the largest palm plantation in Cross Rivers State, which was then adjudged to be the largest in the whole of West Africa, with the proceeds from the plantation and his other businesses used to finance the operation of the movement.

     Akintola said: “Ladoja”s businesses suffered serious setbacks because of his support for the June 12 pro-democracy activists.

     “It is on record that during the period, Ladoja had the largest palm plantation in Cross Rivers State, which was then adjudged to be the largest in the whole of West Africa.

     “The proceeds from the plantation and his other businesses were being used to finance the operation of the Movement.”

     He however lamented that many people who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s democracy are not the ones enjoying its dividend.

     Akintola added that the likes of Comrade Mashood Erubami have nothing to show for the stability of governance in the country.

     Comrade Erubami, according to him, had unsuccessfully contested for various political positions, saying “some politicians who are occupying various political offices in the country have no link with the struggle for democratic rule in the country.

     “People like Mashood Erubami went to prison several times during the NADECO days.

    “These are individuals who paid the price for democracy, yet their contributions are often overlooked.”

  • Ageing, conservative Atiku as revolutionary

    Ageing, conservative Atiku as revolutionary

    DAYS after his spokesman, Paul Ibe, issued a statement on his behalf waxing ebullient about revolutions, former vice president Atiku Abubakar has still not disavowed it. His statements, many Nigerians and the media have come to understand, must be taken with caution, especially when they are posted on his social media handles. To conclude that his posts inevitably represent his views may, for this budding but really ageing revolutionary, be fallacious. Last Monday, Mr Ibe quoted the former vice president as warning the Bola Tinubu presidency to beware of looming revolution because of hunger, thus simplistically correlating sundry crimes with hunger. He had bellowed: “The most violent socio-political eruptions and revolutions all over the world had often been powered by pervasive hunger and unbearable material conditions – especially the paradox of squalor amidst plenty in our land.” He also added grimly: “The current unacceptable situation offers an opportunity for reflection, (in line with) the French Revolution, the 1917 Russian Revolution, and the Arab Spring in which a young man caught in the maelstrom of unbearable frustration set himself ablaze in a development which occasioned violent socio-political eruptions starting out from Tunisia and engulfing the Middle-East and North Africa.”

    Not done, he then added: “Back home here in Nigeria, it may not be out of place to argue that even the ‘ENDSARS’ protest was fuelled by the traumatising  frustration of hunger and  insensitivity on the part of the government.” Alhaji Atiku’s love for theorising and abstractions is legendary. Whether he really understands the foundations of his beliefs or the dynamics of the social forces he declaims about so magisterially is another thing entirely. Indeed, as his records show, when any of his pontifications proves unpopular, he disowns them instantly.

    On May 13, 2022, one day after Deborah Samuel, a student of the College of Education Sokoto, was lynched by fellow students in an appalling case of murder carried out before a global audience, Alhaji Atiku was rightly outraged enough to denounce the murder. Said he on Twitter: “There cannot be a justification for such gruesome murder. Deborah Yakubu was murdered and all those behind her death must be brought to justice. My condolences to her family and friends.” His tweet, however, attracted a swift backlash from some northerners, perhaps Sokoto indigenes, who swore not to vote for him should he win the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential nomination yet to be conducted at the time. And with alacrity, and writing in Hausa language on facebook that same evening, he recanted his belief and outrage, posting: “This evening I received information that a post was made that doesn’t agree with my orders. I use this to announce that any post without A. A. is not from me. May God protect us.” So, what about the murdered Miss Samuel? Silence, ponderous and crushing silence.

    Read Also: Tribalism a malignant disease hindering Nigeria’s progress – Atiku

    In late August, speaking through his representative Ola Olateju, a professor, Alhaji Atiku declared that he was not as desperate to be president as he was in midwifing a new and prosperous Nigeria. The genial professor spoke on behalf of the former vice president at a ceremony in Lagos welcoming defectors into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the special purpose vehicle the coalition of opposition forces planned to use to unseat President Tinubu. Hear Prof. Olateju: “Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. So, it’s not about him being the president. It’s about having a better government, a good government able to deliver for Nigerians. It’s not a personal thing for him, and that’s why some of us are with him. It’s not about Atiku having to be president at all costs…It’s not about a personal thing that he must be president. No, it is not a matter of must. The must is for him to see Nigeria deliver as wished by all…” The ink had not dried on that awkward ascription of altruism to Alhaji Atiku before he denounced the ascription.

    Another of the former vice president’s spokesmen, Tunde Olusunle, issued a swift rebuttal on facebook a day or two later, insisting that his principal would vie for the presidency in 2027. Quoting Alhaji Atiku, Dr Olusunle posted: “I did not issue that statement. When people stand in for me at events, we preview my thoughts on the instant subject and what my contribution or intervention will be, so that we are on the same page. In this particular instance, there was no engagement with me to distill my thoughts. Prof. Olateju was not speaking for me. I will run in 2027.” In the Miss Samuel case, the former vice president cowardly and mystifyingly placed his ambition above his principles, if not his character. In the Prof Olateju case, Alhaji Atiku was sadly unable to even recognise when his unflattering image as a vacillator and opportunist was being burnished.

    And then came the revolutionary buncombe. When he anchored his belief on a looming revolution on the examples of Russian and French revolutions as well as the Arab Spring, it was all but certain that Alhaji Atiku had very superficial understanding of the forces he casually referenced in his statement. Not only was he ignorant of the remote and immediate causes of the revolutions, he also failed abysmally to draw the right lessons from the social earthquakes that sundered those countries and defeated the objectives of the revolutions. It has indeed become fashionable to talk of revolution, even by conservative and reactionary politicians who, like the former vice president, cannot be trusted to stand for anything.

  • Tinubu, Atiku, Kwakwanso, others to grace Ladoja’s coronation

    Tinubu, Atiku, Kwakwanso, others to grace Ladoja’s coronation

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, former Kano  Governor, Rabiu Kwakwanso and others are part of dignitaries expected at the coronation of the new Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Sen. Rasidi Ladoja.

    Tinubu and Ladoja served at the Senate during the aborted third Republic. Aside that, while Tinubu was serving his second term as Lagos State Governor, Ladoja was also serving as Oyo Governor.

    Ladoja is billed to be installed as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland next Friday at the historic Mapo Hall, Ibadan.

    Oba Ladoja, few days ago while recieving some visitors who came to paid him courtesy visit at his Bodija residence, said  Tinubu and other top dignitaries have  promised to be in attendance at his coronation.

    Chairman of the Coronation Committee of the 44th Olubadan, Chief Bayo Oyero while speaking with journalists during a press conference held at Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan also confirmed that President Tinubu and other top eminent personalities would be in attendance at the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    Oyero described installation of Ladoja as the new Olubadan as a great cultural and historical significant, adding that the installation will not just be a coronation but reaffirmation of unique and timeless chieftaincy system of Ibadanland.

    He said Ibadan succession process is a testament to it’s democratic and orderly tradition, a system that has ensured peace and stability for generation.

    He said: “The ascension of Oba Ladoja is a journey of many years back, a path meticulously followed and guided by the wisdom of the ancestors.”

    He noted that Ladoja, being a former Senator, Governor, and now Olubadan will be equipped with unique understanding of the grassroots to the corridor of power.

    He however said Ibadan people are confident that Ladoja would bring his wealth of experience to the throne, leading Ibadanland into a new era of progress, peace and prosperity.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo described Olubadan stool as a revered stool and pride cultural identity not just to Ibadanland, but Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

    He said Ladoja’s coronation signified unity, peace and fundamental celebration of Yoruba heritage.

  • You’re an alarmist out to cause anarchy, APC tells ex-VP Atiku

    You’re an alarmist out to cause anarchy, APC tells ex-VP Atiku

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of instigating anarchy with his false alarm that hunger and insecurity in the country can precipitate a violent revolution.

    In a statement on Monday, Aiku had likened Nigeria’s situation to the circumstances that justified historic violent revolutions and uprisings in France, Russia, and the Arab Spring.

    But in a statement yesterday in Abuja, the APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka dismissed the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate’s vituperation as “a new low in a recent streak of incendiary commentaries by Atiku”.

    Trashing the outburst as unbecoming of a former Vice President, Morka noted that Atiku’s statement was “reckless, irresponsible, unbefitting and degrading to his status as former Vice President”.

    READ ALSO: The INEC chairman as kingmaker

    Morka said: “While garbed as a critique of the economic policies of President Tinubu’s administration, Atiku’s statement is nothing short of a tacit instigation of a revolution in Nigeria. His statement is reckless, irresponsible, unbefitting, and degrading to his status as former Vice President.

    “As a two-term Vice President, Atiku and his PDP, at the time, had the opportunity, backed by humongous oil revenues, to eradicate hunger, poverty, and insecurity. Atiku and his PDP failed to do so. In fact, they made absolutely no impression against hunger, poverty, and insecurity in Nigeria. They governed for 16 years, did not and could not eradicate hunger, poverty, and insecurity in Nigeria.

    “Instead, Atiku and his PDP democratised hunger and poverty in our country. They plundered and looted our treasury, and enthroned corruption and profligacy as state policy.  Atiku and his PDP cemented the sordid foundations of hunger, poverty, and insecurity that President Tinubu is battling courageously and relentlessly to defeat, with growing success.

    “As Vice President, Atiku was clueless about solving Nigeria’s economic challenges. As a forever-presidential aspirant, he remains eminently clueless about what it takes to tackle our country’s economic challenges.”

  • You are a false alarmist out to instigate anarchy, APC slams Atiku

    You are a false alarmist out to instigate anarchy, APC slams Atiku

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of instigating anarchy over what it described ashis false alarm that hunger and insecurity in the country that can precipitate a violent revolution.

    Atiku in a statement on Monday likened Nigeria’s situation to circumstances that justified historic violent revolutions and uprising in France, Russia and the Arab Spring.

    But APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka in a reaction on Tuesday dismissed the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate vituperation, describing it as “a new low in a recent streak of incendiary commentaries by Atiku.

    Trashing the outburst as unbecoming of a former Vice President, Morka said Atiku’s statement was “reckless, irresponsible, unbefitting and degrading to his status as former Vice President.”

    The ruling party blamed the current challenges being faced in the country on Atiku and the 16 years of planlessness and misrule of the opposition PDP, where he served as a vice president for 8 years

    According to Morka: “While garbed as a critique of the economic policies of President Tinubu’s administration, Atiku’s statement is nothing short of a tacit instigation of a revolution in Nigeria. His statement is reckless, irresponsible, unbefitting and degrading to his status as former Vice President.

    “As a two-term Vice President, Atiku and his PDP, at the time, had the opportunity, backed by humongous oil revenues, to eradicate hunger, poverty and insecurity. Atiku and his PDP failed to do so. In fact, they made absolutely no impression against hunger, poverty and insecurity in Nigeria. They governed for 16 years, did not and could not eradicate hunger, poverty and insecurity in Nigeria.

    “Instead, Atiku and his PDP democratized hunger and poverty in our country. They plundered and looted our treasury, and enthroned corruption and profligacy as state policy. Atiku and his PDP cemented the sordid foundations of hunger, poverty and insecurity that President Tinubu is battling courageously and relentlessly to defeat, with growing success.

    “As Vice President, Atiku was clueless about solving Nigeria’s economic challenges. As a forever-presidential aspirant, he remains eminently clueless about what it takes to tackle our country’s economic challenges.”

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    APC reminded Atiku that his recent confession to the looting of $16 billion meant to provide electricity to Nigerians, under his watch as Vice President, is a stark reminder of his record of incompetent and failed leadership.

    “Now out of power, Atiku thinks himself as possessing knowledge and capacity he so miserably lacked when he had the opportunity to govern as Vice President. That is utterly delusional. Nigerians know this and it is reason they have serially rebuffed his attempts to be president. Nigerians are on standby to deal Atiku, hopefully, a full and final rejection in 2027.

    “Blinded by desperation, tormented by President Tinubu’s impressive and inimitable strides, distraught by an unrealized presidential ambition, disoriented by anxieties of a far faded political future, Atiku has become incapable of objective, reasoned and rational assessment of the state of our rebounded and stable economy, now set to secure growth and deliver prosperity for our nation.”

    Dismissing Atiku as not being in touch with the reality of the benefits now flowing from the administration’s transformative Renewed Hope economic reforms, Morka castigated Atiku for making the statement on “a day when all news platforms had headline reports of consistent lowering of inflation numbers, at a period when all vital economic indicators are looking up and pointing in a positive direction.”
    ,
    The party warned him that instigating anarchy is not legitimate or justifiable opposition politics.

    “It is wrong, irresponsible, unpatriotic and unacceptable. While critique of the administration’s economic policies is within the opposition’s democratic freedom, instigating violent uprising is not a protected freedom. Violence is never a desirable or acceptable mode of democratic engagement.

    “Atiku should know better and refrain from the use of inflammatory language capable of stoking violence and undermining the peace and safety of Nigerians. His duty to country must trump his desperate and inordinate presidential ambition,” the party added.

    It enjoined Nigerians to ignore Atiku’s inciting statement as self-serving, anti-democratic and a threat to the peace, unity, interest and progress of our dear country.

    “Atiku hardly resides in Nigeria and will not be available to partake in the attendant pain, destruction, mayhem and desolation that the revolution he is instigating will bring. We must guard our God-given liberties and not lend them to be sacrificed at the pleasure of Atiku’s political ambition.

    “We urge Nigerians to remain steadfast in support of President Tinubu’s administration as it continues in its unyielding efforts to build a nation of our collective dream.”

  • Presidency, APC slam Atiku over hunger, hardship alarm

    Presidency, APC slam Atiku over hunger, hardship alarm

    • ‘Ex-VP’s low score for Fed Govt out of touch with positive development’

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar yesterday came under fire over his warning that revolution is imminent due to hunger and hardship in the country.

    Dismissing the alarm as a product of outdated thinking, the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) said Atiku is out of touch with the reality.

    “Atiku and his party are stuck in the past, fixated on doomsday scenarios and revolutionary rhetoric,” the Presidency said in a statement by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    He said while the country is making progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, it is curious that what Atiku can decipher is imaginary gloom.

    Onanuga added: “Talk is cheap. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his handlers are clearly out of touch with the positive developments unfolding in our country.

    “Their claim that hunger is ravaging Nigeria, and their comparison of our situation to the unrest in France before the 1789 Revolution or the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, is grossly misleading.”

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    Also berating Atiku for making a reckless statement, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, said only the former vice president sees hopelessness where every Nigerian sees hope.

    Atiku, 2023 presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the arrowhead of the opposition coalition that adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as platform, alleged that the Tinubu administration has not made impact in two years.

    He said if the PDP government under which Atiku served had laid a good foundation and avoided corruption, the country would have been a better place.

    Incidentally, on the same day that Atiku made the claim on hunger, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released the Consumer Protection Index (CPI), which shows that due to rapidly dropping food prices, inflation had declined for the fifth consecutive time. It is now 20.12 per cent.

    Revolution looms, Atiku warns

    Atiku, who alerted the country to an impending revolution, decried the increasing spate of hunger among the underprivileged poor and downtrodden.

    He said in a statement by his spokesman, Paul Ibe, that while the primary objective of  any government is the security and welfare of the citizens, the masses are progressively wallowing in misery and poverty under the administration.

    Although the former vice president did not elaborate on the kind of revolution that is looming, he warned that the situation engenders an increasingly progressive propensity for criminalities, including high-wire fraud, terrorism, kidnapping, cultism, drug addiction and ritual sacrifice.

    He recalled that the most violent socio-political eruptions and revolutions all over the world had often been powered by pervasive hunger and unbearable material conditions, especially the paradox of squalor amid plenty.

    Atiku, who called for ‘national reflection,’ alluded to the French Revolution, the 1917 Russian Revolution and the Arab Spring in which a young man caught in the maelstrom of unbearable frustration set himself ablaze,  leading to violent socio-political eruptions in Tunisia,  Middle-East and North Africa.

    He added: “Back home in Nigeria, it may not be out of place to argue that even the  “ENDSARS” protest was fuelled by the traumatising frustration of hunger and  insensitivity on the part of the government.”

    Atiku lamented that two years after assuming power, there are no signs that the government is capable of addressing the severe hunger staring the poor in the face.

    He said: “Whatever reform the Tinubu government might claim to be undertaking, the point remains that food insecurity is a daily occurrence.

    “There is no government worth its salt that does not  place priority on the welfare and security of the people.”

    Atiku said since reforms are made for citizens and not the other way round, the reforms of the administration should have a human face.

    He stressed: “Whether the present powers accept it or not, the reality of our existence is that the poor are increasingly dying of hunger while majority of the poor exists at the mercy of the ill-advised policies of this government.

    Atiku wrong, says Presidency

    However, Onanuga said Atiku offered a subjective analysis, pointing out that Nigerians are already savouring the bold reforms.

    He drew attention to the data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which paints a different picture from Atiku’s claims.

    The presidential aide said inflation had declined for five consecutive months, while the country recently posted a record trade surplus, with non-oil exports contributing nearly equally to the trade balance at a 48:52 per cent ratio compared to crude oil.

    Onanuga added that Nigeria’s foreign reserves, which stood at $32 billion when President Tinubu assumed office — much of it encumbered — had risen to almost $42 billion after clearing more than $7 billion in arrears, including $800 million owed to airlines.

    He said: “Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is recording unprecedented revenue. States are now able to pay salaries and gratuities promptly and still have surplus funds for capital and social projects—an achievement not previously witnessed at this scale.”

    Onanuga said government is correcting the errors inherited from the PDP era, when Atiku was vice president, through bold reforms that are yielding results.

    He stressed: “After just two years and five months in office, we are proud of the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership. Atiku and his allies may choose to ignore these gains, but Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes taking place across the nation.”

    Morka: ex-VP out of touch with reality

    Chiding Atiku for subjectivity, Morka said the former vice president was out of tune with reality.

    He described the comments as incendiary and inciting, borne out of his desperation for power.

    Morka, who spoke on television last night, said: “At this point, I want to believe Atiku is out of touch with what goes on in the country. If Atiku were paying attention to the unfolding economic programmes of this government, he wouldn’t make such a statement.

    “When every paper is reporting lowering of inflation, he is making inciting comments. It is grossly disappointing that a man, who had the opportunity to end hunger, insecurity could not in eight years as vice president.

    “It is wrong for him to say that. Nigerians know Atiku is desperate for power. He needs to rest; he has become irrelevant to any consideration of posterity.

    “There is nothing he is saying today that should lead Nigerians to that point (revolution).

    “A man like Atiku should be quiet. The same Atiku confessed how they squandered $21 billion meant for electricity.”

    The Publicity secretary said President Tinubu initiated bold reforms to clean the mess perpetuated by PDP administrations.

    He added: “The problems are a failure of those who came before him. President Tinubu has initiated reforms to tackle age-old problems. He is being scientific.

    “Every government before him has not done anything to tackle the problem.

    The Jonathan government and the one before him operated a phantom economy. Buhari served as a stabiliser, he came to hold the country so it won’t tip over. Buhari also didn’t create the problems contended with.”

    Hailing the President for doing what no one has done in just two years, Morka said: “The President addressed the structural problems of the economy. Inflation has reduced, he has been vindicated.

    “The benefits of his reforms are showing. Even Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said Tinubu should be praised for stabilising the economy.”

    The spokesman emphasised that following the fuel subsidy removal and naira floating, there is stability in the foreign exchange, stressing that the country now has the best balance of trade in Africa.

    He added: “Hope is coming alive. The economy that was in tatters is now on solid ground. Nigerians are smart people and are seeing the signs. Farmers are smiling more. The future will get better.”

  • Presidency rebukes Atiku’s ‘revolution’ claim, says Nigeria making steady progress

    Presidency rebukes Atiku’s ‘revolution’ claim, says Nigeria making steady progress

    The Presidency on Monday dismissed former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s warning of an imminent revolution in Nigeria due to hunger, describing it as alarmist rhetoric rooted in outdated thinking.

    In a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency said Atiku and his party remain “stuck in the past, fixated on doomsday scenarios and revolutionary rhetoric,” even as the country records notable progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    “Talk is cheap. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his handlers are clearly out of touch with the positive developments currently unfolding in our country. Their claim that hunger is ravaging Nigeria, and their comparison of our situation to the unrest in France before the 1789 Revolution or the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, is grossly misleading,” the statement reads. 

    The Presidency highlighted that recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) paints a different picture from Atiku’s claims. 

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    It noted that headline inflation has now declined for five consecutive months, while the country recently posted a record trade surplus, with non-oil exports contributing nearly equally to the trade balance at a 48:52 per cent ratio compared to crude oil.

    Onanuga added that Nigeria’s foreign reserves, which stood at $32 billion when Tinubu assumed office—much of it encumbered—have risen to almost $42 billion after clearing more than $7 billion in arrears, including $800 million owed to airlines.

    “Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is recording unprecedented revenues. States are now able to pay salaries and gratuities promptly and still have surplus funds for capital and social projects—an achievement not previously witnessed at this scale,” the statement said.

    The Presidency stressed that the government is correcting errors inherited from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) era, when Atiku was Vice President, through bold reforms that are already yielding results.

    “After just two years and five months in office, we are proud of the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership. Atiku and his allies may choose to ignore these gains, but Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes taking place across the nation,” Onanuga stated.