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  • Why I want to be senator, by candidate

    Why I want to be senator, by candidate

    A senatorial candidate on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Clifford Odia, has promised to restore the lost voice of the Esan people, if voted to the Upper Legislative Chamber.

    Speaking in Lagos, he said: “I will restore the lost voice of Esanland at the Senate. The voice will be vocal and democratic and truly representative of the people. As a chartered civil engineer I will be able to reconcile the bill of engineering management and evaluation with what is critically executed on ground.”

    He promised to attract government presence to the zone and take youth empowerment as his personal responsibility. “I will not only teach them to fish I will use my position to empower Esanland by attracting donor agencies,” he added..

    Odia who is of the Esan stock, a major ethnic group in Southwestern part of the country in Edo Central Senatorial District, in Edo State, has a personal story which is a tale that explains very vividly that Odia is not making promises he cannot fulfill as some politicians would want to do but would more likely reach into his pedigree to write a script for success and bring more attention to the plight of his people.

    The statement recalled that starting out with a small construction company in 1991, Odia made a huge success of that company which now employs over 200 professional engineers. At the moment he sits atop a conglomerate which runs a quarry in Edo State, two asphalt plants –one in Edo State, the other in Rivers State while another quarry will soon be commissioned.

    Before his foray into politics, Odia had an overwhelming grassroots support. His philanthropic activities are well documented and appreciated by the people who see him as a pillar of support to the vulnerable in the society like widows. He is very supportive of the women folks and some indigent students enjoy scholarships in his name.

    He said: “Politics in Edo State in the days ahead is going to be very interesting and exciting in a state where the opposition has produced the governor running the state. Already propaganda is very high in the political menu in a state where words have become very cheap. There is indication that the opposition party will be desperate to secure the seat in order to buoy the exaggerated performance of the governor.  But the Ishan people will likely use the election as the beginning of a process to put their house in order and take their destiny in their own hands in the face of a governor that has only paid gratuitous attention to them. In terms of infrastructural development, the zone comprising five local government areas-Esan West, Esan Central, Esan North East, Esan South East and Igueben-is a distant third.”

    Esan is also the home of Chief Tony Anenih, the PDP leader. A community leader said: “The Esan people will demonstrate their true ancestry; they will demonstrate that they are decent people properly brought up by their parents; people who will not stay in exalted offices and throw invectives at their elders no matter the political provocation.

    “They will cast their vote to support their star leader, Chief Tony Anenih in order to demonstrate that they don’t consume their stars as is the practice in most parts of the country. The Esan people enhance the luminosity of their own stars.”

    Odia said that he will not betray the trust and confidence of the people, if he becomes a senator. “I am amiable, peace-loving and loved by the people; I am Christian, not only by birth but by action.”

    Many are of the opinion that Odia has absolute trust in institutions and pursues his cause with diligence. Since he joined the PDP, he has never done anything to hurt the party. Instead, he has supported the platform. Even, when he was in a vantage position to wrest the slot  from Ugbesia, he refrained. Odia honoured the internal zoning subscribed to by stakeholders. His action brought tranquility to the party.

  • Kwara PDP unveils Ajibola as governorship candidate

    Kwara PDP unveils Ajibola as governorship candidate

    The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the weekend presented Senator Simeon Ajibola as its governorship candidate.

    The primary that led to his emergence early in the month was dogged with controversy.

    But PDP State Chairman Iyiola Oyedepo said the crisis had been resolved, as he introduced Ajibola to the public at a media briefing in Ilorin, the state capital.

    Three of the former 10 governorship aspirants of the party – Prof. Shuaib AbdulRaheem, Deacon John Dara and Dele Belgore – attended the event.

    The PDP candidate also unveiled Yinka Aluko as his running mate, saying Aluko’s emergence was divine, just like his.

    Ajibola, who accepted to run as the PDP governorship flag bearer, said the PDP would defeat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2015 election.

    He hailed the aspirants for conceding the position to him, adding that he was not the best among the contestants though his emergence was the wish of God.

    Ajibola said: “The victory at the primary is not only for me but for all of us who decided or dared to put ourselves forward for public service in our effort to rescue Kwara.

    “I hereby plead with you all to put personal interests aside, respect the decision of the delegates and, above all, remind ourselves of our promises to work together for the success of the party.”

    Aluko accepted the position with a promise to be loyal to Ajibola.

    Oyedepo noted that despite the crisis over the outcome of the primary, the party had come out with a candidate who was not imposed.

    AbdulRaheem explained that contrary to the speculation that the multiple aspirants would divide the party, the party was more united.

    He said the members were satisfied with the process that produced Ajibola.

  • APC candidate urges review of Fiscal Federalism

    APC candidate urges review of Fiscal Federalism

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 1, Dr. Eniola Ajayi, has called  for a review of fiscal federalism.

    She said the review became necessary, owing to the reduction of allocations going to the states from the Federation Account, which, she said, has made it difficult for them to pay salaries and honour other commitments.

    Dr. Ajayi made the call at the weekend in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, at a news conference, where she unfolded her agenda for the people of Ado-Ekiti and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas that make up her constituency.

    She expressed confidence of winning the election despite sharing the same federal constituency of origin with Governor Ayo Fayose, who belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying “the power of the people is greater than the power in government”.

    Dr. Ajayi said the mood among the electorate right now favour the APC as a party that has better manifesto and programmes for the electorate than the PDP.

    The former Commissioner for Education also pledged to champion the review of the nation’s strategies for job creation and employment in a bid to reduce the security threat posed by a large army of unemployed youths.

    She said the weapon of lawmaking should be used to legally institutionalise  the percentage of women in the public sector.

    The APC candidate said if she is elected as a member of the Green Chamber of the National Assembly, she would effect plans to cut down cost of governance and curb corruption.

    She said it was called for introduction of social security plans for the aged and the vulnerable in the society.

    She promised to ensure that the people of the constituency benefit from the Constituency Project Scheme of the Federal Government.

  • Sheriff is PDP senatorial candidate for Borno Central

    Sheriff is PDP senatorial candidate for Borno Central

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has selected former Governor Modu Sherrif as its Borno Central senato-rial candidate for next year’s election.

    The party explained that Senator Sherrif emerged as a consensus candidate, following consultations among stakeholders.

    He was given the ticket after he was cleared by the Department of State Security Services (DSS) on the allegation sponsoring Boko Haram activities.

    To forge unity in the chapter, the party also resolved to select other candidates through consensus to prevent post-primary crisis.

    Sheriff was absolved of complicity in Boko Haram activities. Also cleared was the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd).

    During the investigation by security agents, another controversy broke out, when the photograph of Sherrif with President Goodluck Jonathan and Chadian President Idriss Derby in D’Jamena, the Chadian capital, appeared in the social media.

    The pictures provoked debate and condemnation by critics and opposition political parties.The Presidency explained that  Sheriff was not part of Dr. Jonathan’s entourage, adding that he received the visiting President like other Nigerians resident in Chad.

    Last week, the DSS paraded seven suspects, including Junaidu Khadi, former Special Adviser to the former governor, on allegation of conspiracy to frame up his former boss.

    However, Governor Kasim Shettima’s spokesman, Malam Isa Gusau, pointed out that the DSS failed to allude to the fact that Khadi served as a special adviser under Sherrif in 2010.

    He also recalled that the former governor mounted pressure on his successor to re-appoint Khadi as a member of the State Executive Council. Gusau emphasised that Khadi was sacked by the governor before his arrest, adding that he was not working with Shettima when he was arrested.

    Sheriff had earlier endorsed his associate, Alhaji Mohammed Imam, for the Senate, following his failed governorship bid. Imam lost to Alhaji Gambo Lawan during the selection process. While Imam enjoyed the support of the former governor, other PDP leaders preferred Gambo.

    Sheriff had contested for the Senate in 2011 on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), but he lost to Ahmed Zanna of the PDP,  a relatively unknown politician.

    A source said that Sherrif has promised to get ministerial or ambassadorial position for Imam, if the President gets a second term.

    However, many stakeholders are jittery because of the soaring popularity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the rising profile of its presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari. In their view, the PDP may not bounce back, if the APC sustains the current tempo of mobilisation across the six geo-political zones.

  • ‘Omoworare was properly elected as senatorial candidate’

    ‘Omoworare was properly elected as senatorial candidate’

    Insinuations that Senator Babajide Omoworare was imposed by Governor Rauf Aregbesola on the  as the  Osun East senatorial candidate has been described as a tissue of lies.

    The Director of Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, made the clarification while reacting to allegations by an aspirant, Mr. Sola Lawal. He said  Lawal’s allegation lacked substance, adding that it was a a fabricated to deiscredit the shadow poll and dent the image of the governor.

    Okanlawon described Aregbesola as an advocate of democratic ethos, noting that Lawal’s accusation paled into a failed attempt to rubbish his democratic credentials.

    He said, since Lawal started his media war triggered by his imaginary victory, he has not spared any party leader from his virulent attacks.

    Okanlawon said that, contrary to Lawal’s claim that he polled 17 votes to defeat Omoworare, who, according to him, scored just three votes, those who voted were more than the 37 people.

    He said there was no way the voters at the primaries who came from Ife/Ijesa axis could be reduced to 37.

    Okanlawon added:  “Some leaders in the senatorial district were saddled with the responsibility of screening aspirants for the senatorial seat. How can the screening become a party primary? How can 20 people dictate who will represent the people?

    “How can there be a primary to choose a senator from a district where the governor hails from and the governor was unaware of such a primary election? How did 20 people arrive at the decision without any of the 11 APC local government party chairmen, 11 Local Government Executive Secretaries, all members of the executive council from the Ife/Ijesa Zone and all other stakeholders across the senatorial district taking part?”

    The spokesman explained that the screening were done for aspirants by leaders from each of the senatorial districts before primaries were conducted.

  • INEC to Oyo PDP: Court has stopped your candidate

    •Makinde: PDP may not field candidate•Folarin: you are ranting 

    The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Oyo State, Oluseyi Makinde, has said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may not field a  candidate in next year’s governorship election because of a  lawsuit.

    Makinde, who was a PDP aspirant, joined the SDP last Monday.

    He spoke at the unveiling of the structure of his new party in Ibadan, the state capital, at the weekend.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has written to the PDP National Chairman, Adamu Muazu, that a Federal High Court had restrained it from recognising any candidate who emerged from a primary, whose delegates differed from the one it ruled in favour of.

    The letter, dated December 9 and signed by the commission’s Secretary, Mrs Augusta Ogakwu, urged the PDP to act in line with the court ruling.

    The three-paragraph letter reads: “This is to confirm receipt of service of the Order of Federal High Court, Abuja, in respect of the above suit in which you were represented by counsel.

    “The court restrained the commission from accepting, recognising or treating as nominated candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, any candidate who did not emerge in accordance with the order of the court. You may wish to be guided accordingly, please.”

    Explaining why he joined the SDP,  Makinde said he approached members of the PDP national leadership before the primaries and he was assured of a level-playing field.

    He said they reneged on their promise because they worked in favour of Teslim Folarin.

    The SDP candidate said the party refused to allow the right delegates to emerge through the ward congresses.

    Makinde added that three of the five-member committee that conducted the ward congress endorsed the list of appropriate delegates but that the leadership chose to use a list allegedly prepared by a particular candidate.

    Consequently, Makinde said the litigations arising from the development may eventually ensure that the PDP does not have a valid candidate in the election.

    He urged his supporters to work for the SDP’s success in the February election.

    But Folarin described Makinde’s comments as the ranting of a defeated player.

    The PDP candidate, who spoke through his spokesman, Victor Oluwadamilare,  said yesterday that Makinde  wants to eat his cake and have it.

    According to him, the suit filed against his (Folarin’s) candidature by one of Makinde’s supporters would be thrown out because the latter has left the PDP.

    His words: “The problem with Seyi Makinde is that he wants to eat his cake and have it.

    “His suit will be thrown out because he has left the PDP. He can’t be in the SDP and be talking about the PDP.

    “The delegates who voted for Folarin have spoken. If the delegates had chosen him, he would not have been complaining.

    “It is an internal crisis and if you have not exhausted the internal mechanism process before going to court, you will just be wasting your time. He is just ranting.”

    On the INEC letter, Oluwadamilare said the commission did that only to show fairness to all parties, emphasising that the PDP would still reconfirm Folarin as its candidate.

  • Vote wisely, APC candidate urges electorate

    Vote wisely, APC candidate urges electorate

    All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives candidate in Kosofe Constituency, Lagos State Prince Rotimi Agunsoye yesterday advised stakeholders to brace up for next year’s general elections.

    He described 2015 as a decisive year, urging the people to vote and defend their votes in the interest of democracy.

    The former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who won the ticket at the primaries, thanked party members for their support, advising them to remain loyal to the party and its leadership.

    Agunsoye told reporters in Lagos that the success recorded at the primaries can only be meaningful, if voters vote for the APC at the general elections.

    He promised to implement his campaign manifestos, if elected at the poll.

    Agunsoye said: “I have walked before the people of Kosofe in humility and sense of patriotism and service. I have served the grassroots with the best of my ability and the state in a strategic portfolio. I have been a party man and a community man. Now that I have been given the mandate, I will continue to work for the realisation of the developmental agenda of Kosofe and Lagos State.”

    The politician urged Lagosians to vote for continuity at the poll, adding that the APC will build on its achievements in government in post-Fashola period.

    He added: “Lagosians and the APC have a pact of development. The state is on cause under the APC government. What we need is continuity and the people will make it happen. From the House of Assembly to the presidential primaries, the APC threw up competent candidates. When the APC comes on board at the centre, there will be a new lease of life for Nigeria.”

  • Okoko: Why I ‘m candidate to beat in Akwa Ibom

    Okoko: Why I ‘m candidate to beat in Akwa Ibom

    The ambition of Benjamin Enobong Okoko, a governorship aspirant in the Peoples Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom State, has unsettled the kingmakers.  In the party, there is lack of internal democracy. The acrimony in the party is among some of the stakeholders, who brought the party to the state, managed and nurtured it effectively.

    The party’s primaries for the selection of candidates to represent the party in the elections are another test case between the founding members and those who joined the party.

    Incidentally, in the 2015 governorship race in the state, the only founding member of the party in the race is Mr. Benjamin Enobong Okoko, who co-founded the PDP in 1998 alongside seven other patriots. The others are Chief Don Etiebet, who was the state leader, Obong Victor Attah and Senator Anietie Okon as conveners from Uyo Senatorial district.

    Dr.  Ime Titus Okopido and Sen Emmanuel Ibok Essien as conveners from Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District while Eket District had Benjamin Enobong Okoko and the late Dan Etukudoh. As conveners of the PDP, they were charged with the responsibility of establishing the party.

    Among the founding members of the party, Okoko is now the only one aspiring to the Akwa Ibom Hill top mansion. At the age of 37, he contested the party primary in 1998 and won but the leaders intervened saying he was still a young man with prospect in future. Since then he had made two other attempts stalled through the party’s intervention.

    Okoko expressed his feeling thus: “It is said that greatness is not in how many times you fall, but being able to rise each time you fall. 1999 is a story everybody knows. The 1999 election was supposed to have been a coronation for me as everything was set. But some leaders of the party approached and prevailed on me to withdraw my candidature for the governorship election in 1998/1999 election. I accepted it without any condition.

    “In 2003, I ran and the party decided that the incumbent should have a second term. In 2006 we had a crowd of about 60 aspirants. There was complete confusion, but the party decided it was Governor Godswill Akpabio that should have the ticket. He got the ticket and ran. In 2011, I didn’t run because I became wiser, I came to understand my party better knowing that it is not easy to run against the incumbent seeking a second term.

    “In 2015, Governor Akpabio is finishing his second term. So, I feel I have to come out. With the experience I have the previous times, I really understand the politics better this time. I am quite optimistic to be successful this time and four is my lucky number.”

    Since launching his campaign in the state, Okoko’s strategy to pick the party’s ticket has totally put other aspirants in a tight corner and confusion especially when he was not expected in the race. He remains the first aspirant in the state to consult the party both at the local and state levels.

    As a bonafide party man, Okoko made history by making his first point of contact to be the party.  It was like a presidential directive or an order from the national headquarters of the party that the state party leadership both at state and local government levels should open their doors and receive to Okoko’s campaign train.

    Out of the number of aspirants in the state, none ever deemed it fit to consult the party, until Okoko made the move. After consulting the state executive, Okoko, did not stop there but embarked on a state-wide consultation of 31 local government local government chapters of the party where he addressed the executive members and party faithful.

    His reception by the chapters was another homecoming of an original party man. The leadership urged Okoko, who started his political career as a chapter officer, to restore the supremacy and dignity of the party officers as key players of Government.

    The plight of PDP officers at these levels was described as pathetic especially after serving the party judiciously. “There is nothing to show for our loyalty to the party. Our mandate as trustees for the party is with an empty stomach,” he said appealing to Okoko to remember that he started his politics as an officer of the party and should therefore reverse the trend his colleagues are passing through in the state

    To the PDP members, it was like a dream come true; that the restorer has arrived and from their disposition, mostly characterised by intermittent smiles and outburst of joy, it was obvious their hopes have been rekindled.

    Okoko,  promised that with their support, the party will be returned to its proper place of pride.  He admonished them to join hands and ensure that only a true party man becomes the next governor of the state.

    With his sincerity of purpose and track record, it was not totally surprising that the entire 31 local government chapters of the party  were unanimous in accepting, confirming, agreeing that Okoko would emerge the PDP standard bearer of the party and shall go ahead to contest the 2015 governorship election and succeed Akpabio, as the next governor.

    They took this decision because they decided to go back to history and trace the root of the party. Having glanced into the immediate past, they resolved that justice should be the foundation for political stability. They remembered that Okoko did not join the party but co-founded the party in 1998.

    They remembered his sacrifice to the party when he was told to let go the ticket to pave the way for Obong Attah to become governor from Uyo senatorial district. They also remembered that he obeyed the party unconditionally and has remained a loyal, faithful, committed and dedicated party man under the umbrella.

    In addition, they remembered that he has not left the party since its formation. They remembered that in spite of the fact that he is yet to  benefit from the party he co-founded, he has held on to the party.

    Okoko conducted the first  state and local government congresses of the PDP  in 1999, which saw the emergence of party executives. He was the second National Publicity Secretary of the PDP; former Member, PDP National Working Committee (NWC); former Member, PDP National Executive Committee (NEC); former Chairman, PDP National Electoral Panel, Kwara State; former Member, PDP National Convention Committee and pioneer Secretary, PDP South South/South East Caucus.

  • Who emerges as Lagos APC governorship candidate?

    Who emerges as Lagos APC governorship candidate?

    Delegates will elect the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate today at the primaries. Eleven aspirants are in the race. Who wins the ticket? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the epic succession battle.

    Today is a special day in the life of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC). Over 6,000 delegates from 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) will elect its governorship candidate at the primaries. They comprise over 4,000 elected delegates and 2,000 statutory delegates, including ward, local government and state officers of the party, and appointees.The flag bearer will face the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in next year’s elections. The winner will succeed Governor Babatunde Fashola, who will bow out from office after completing his two terms of eight years.

    The succession battle is gaining momentum in the economic hub and commercial capital of Nigeria. It has provoked interest beyond the political parties. Even, other states are monitoring unfolding events. APC governorship aspirants are intensifying their consultations and mobilisation. The outcome of the House of Assembly primaries held on Tuesday may predict the result of the primaries.

    No doubt,  contenders are locked in a fierce battle. There are allegations of gang-ups by some aspirants against a particular aspirant.  Strategic defections by impatient politicians seeking the golden fleece outside their political family are being contemplated. Reality has dawn on some paper-weight aspirants that they cannot go far.  Yesterday, some of them canvassed the review of procedures for the primaries. They said that direct primaries are better than indirect primaries.

    Lagos APC aspirants parade intimidating credentials. But, not all of them are blessed with solid structures. No fewer than 11 chieftains are vying for the governorship. The aspirants  include Senator Ganiyu Solomon, House of Assembly Speaker Hon. Yemi Ikuforiji, Mrs. Tokunbo Agbesanwa, the only woman in the race, former Health Commissioner Dr. Tola kasali, and former Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr. Akinwumi Ambode.

    Others are Commissioner for Works Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, former Health Commissioner Dr. Leke Pitan, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Supo Shasore (SAN), Tokunbo Wahab, and Mr. Tayo Ayinde. Many of them are disciples and beneficiaries of Tinubu’s political philanthropy.

     

    Division in governor camp

    Many issues will shape the shadow poll. The first is the incumbency factor. In 2007, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the former governor, was in charge. Today, Fashola is the governor, but he is not in control of the political machinery. Sources said that Fashola is rooting for Shasore, his friend and learned colleague. But, it is an uphill task. For seven and half years, the governor has not acquired political skills like his predecessor, although he is the controller of financial resources. Since the shadow poll is the internal affair of the ruling party, it may be difficult for the governor to achieve a breakthrough in his agenda to install a successor. Despite being in the saddle for two terms, he is not perceived as the party leader by the majority of party members. Thus, the power of incumbency may crumble at the primaries.

    A source said that the governor’s camp is thinking beyond the primaries. Reminiscent of the 2011 episode, the relics of the Labour Party (LP) are being exhumed. “If Shasore fails to get the APC ticket, the governor will fight. The ‘Plan B’, as it is being called, is to arrange for him to contest on the platform of the Labour Party (LP).” added the source.

    The governor’s camp is also divided, ahead of the primaries. Few months ago, the camp was rooting for Hamzat, a star commissioner and member of the kitchen cabinet. The projection of Shasore by the camp has led to a division, with ardent supporters of Hamzat protesting that he has been dumped by the chief executive.

     

    LCDA argument

    Two days ago, eight out of 11 aspirants protested against the procedure for the primaries. In their view, delegates to the primaries cannot be based on the 57 councils, 37 of which have not been listed in the constitution, because the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a federal body that does not recognise the 37 LCDAs, will conduct the governorship polls. The additional councils are being sacrificed on the altar of the bitter struggle for power.

    Lagosians were taken aback when aspirants who were at the forefront of the creation of the additional 37 councils inadvertently  re-echoed the Federal Government’s sentiment that they have not been listed in the constitution. The additional councils are legal entities validly created by the House of Assembly. The aspirants have in the past defended the creation of the additional councils, based on the legitimate aspiration of Lagosians for deeper grassroots governance and development. According to observers, the aspirants have forgotten that the governor has funded the councils for seven and half years through the State/Local Government Joint Accounts Committee. Their chairmen were inaugurated by the governor.

    Reflecting on the rejection of the 57 council structure, a party elder said: “Politics is funny. These people (aspirants) have fought for the creation of the councils. They have also defended their creation when the Federal Government decided not to recognise them. But, they are now saying that delegates cannot come from the councils. It is strange.”

    Party insiders disclosed that plans are underway to discredit today’s primaries, if the party leadership insists on the distribution of delegates across 57 councils. A source said that the protest against the procedure for the shadow poll is the prelude to a showdown.

    To an extent, indigeneship may be a factor in the contest. When the Olowo-Eko of Lagos said that “we will not allow the son of the Ewekoro monarch to rule us in Lagos,” the message was internalised by party chieftains and prospective delegates. However, the party has not disqualified any aspirant, based on this factor. The Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe, said that the APC will abide by the 1999 Constitutions, which guarantees a level-playing field for contestants.

     

    Zoning

    According to the APC leadership, zoning is a factor. In fact, the party has earlier announced that it has zoned the slot to Lagos East Senatorial District. However, politics are smart. Indeed, aspirants not initially favoured by the zoning have traced their ancestral roots to the district. For example, Solomon has claimed that his illustrious father and strongman of Mushin, Lagos West politics, the late Chief Rafiu Solomon, left Ipakodo, Ikorodu Division, for Mushin in 1949. Also, Hamzat has claimed that he is a descendant ofthe  Ajiborisa family of Epe. Last week, Shasore also said that he has deep seated historical links with the East District. Therefore, zoning is a weak factor.

     

    Religion

    In Lagos, there is the clamour by Christians for a “Christian governor.” But, religion is a weak factor. There are Christians and Muslims in the race. The Christians are Ambode, Shasore, and Pitan. The Muslims are Ikuforiji, Hamzat, Kasali, and Wahab. In fact, many have described religion as a non-issue in Lagos politics. An aspirant, Shasore said stakeholders should avoid the danger of erecting religious platforms for politicking in a polity still battling with the ethnic divide. Another chieftain, Hon. Lateef Raji, a House of Representatives aspirant in Osodi/Isolo Constituency, said Lagos cannot afford religious tension. He stressed: “ Christians and Muslims in Lagos State have co-existed harmoniously without friction. We have had more Muslims governors than Christian governors, but it is mere coincidence. In the Southwest, religion has never shaped our politics. Another chieftain, Alhaji Kola Oseni, warned against setting a dangerous precedence. “Merit should be the watchword, not religion,” he said.

     

    Mystery of Lagos politics

    The lessons of Lagos politics are also  instructive. But, aspirants often refuse to learn from history. The political field is slippery. Historically, aspirants who were not in the reckoning have always become the candidates. Eyes were not on Tinubu in 1998/99 and Fashola in 2007. But, they were thrown up by some circumstances and they won the governorship polls. In 1999, Tinubu was warming up for the Senate, until the Afenifere leaders of Ijebu origin advised him to signify interest in the governorship. The only dissenting voice was Dawodu, who, had favoured Funso Williams for the seat.

    In 2007, the defunct Action Congress (AC) had 14 aspirants. They included Jimi Agbaje, Abiodun Ogunleye, Solomon, Oyinlomo Danmole, Tola Kasali, Tokunbo Afikuyomi, and Femi Pedro. Others are Tunde Fanimokun, Bayo Ajisebutu, Kaoli Olusanya, Omotilewa Aro-Lambo, Remi Adikwu-Bakare, and Fashola, the dark horse.  At the primaries, Fashola, the former Chief of Staff secured the ticket.

     

    Consensus and primaries

    Times are changing. Miffed by the culture of imposition, some forces have pressed vigorously for internal democracy. Ironically, the beneficiaries of imposition have turned around to discredit the process that threw them up as party candidates, elected representatives and political appointees.

    The APC is set for primaries today. But, some aspirants are still kicking against its elements. The party settled for primaries, following the stiff opposition to consensus. Two weeks ago, the aspirants attended a crucial meeting in Ikeja to brainstorm on consensus candidacy. A source said that it was deadlock.

    How to conduct a successful primaries is the challenge. Igbokwe said it is possible, recalling that the House of Assembly primaries were largely successful across the constituencies.

     

    Aspirants

    Solomon

    The politician from Mushin will test his popularity today. His campaign structure, ‘Ideal Club’, is not relenting. From 1998 to date, Solomon has been relevant. He has served as the Chairman of Mushin Local Government Area and a member of the House of Representatives. In 2007, he became a senator. He was re-elected in 2011.  Solomon is the first aspirant to declare his ambition. Solomon is also the first contender to set up his campaign office at Ikeja. The event was witnessed by his supporters. He has been canvassing for democratic primaries. Among the party leaders backing him is Alhaji Kola Oseni.

     

    Pitan

    The successful medical doctor from Agbowa, Epe Division, is perceived as the candidate of the Mandate Group. A prominent member of this group is the former Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Muiz Banire, a beneficiary of imposition-turned anti-imposition crusader. In post-Fashola era, the group wants to bounce back as an influential power bloc in the Centre of Excellence. Pitan served as Commissioner for Health and Education for eight years in Tinubu Administration. In recent times, he has set up a medical mission. Any where he goes, he is accompanied by health workers who screen people for ailments. Many believe that he is fit to rule the state. Few weeks ago, his supporters started the agitation for primaries. He is intelligent and hardworking. Last week, his campaign office said that he has been endorsed by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The body has dismissed the media report as a tissue of lies.

     

    Ikuforiji

    Ikuforiji is from Epe. He is a loyal politician. He became a member of the House of Assembly in 2003. He was re-elected in 2007 and 2011. He is the longest serving Speaker of the House. The Speaker enjoys the support of legislators as the head of the legislative arm. Under his leadership, the House has been stable. Ikuforiji has expanded the House of Assembly complex. He has had the privilege of representing two constituencies-Epe and Ikeja, which are in two separate senatorial districts in the House of Assembly.

     

    Ambode

    Ambode is a technocrat from Epe. Three months ago, he set up his campaign office at Gbagada, Lagos East.  Today may mark the beginning of his journey to the State House. At his prime, he showed the prospect of a promising person. At 21, Ambode obtained a degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos, Akoka. At 24, he earned a Masters Degree and qualified as a chartered accountant. He has worked in many councils as a treasurer before he was transferred to the state civil service. He was the Auditor-General for Local Government. In 2012, the Fullbright scholar retired voluntary as the Accountant-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, at the age of 49 years. He was the first Permanent Secretary to have done so in the history of Lagos Civil Service. When the Federal Government withheld allocations to Lagos councils, he designed the blueprint for the financial survival of the councils. His colleagues in the civil service describe him as a man of character, capability and competence.

    Ambode’s head is full of figures. He is a financial strategist. His partisan moves in recent times suggest that he is learning at the feet of experienced leaders. No fewer than 60 traditional rulers from the five divisions of Epe, Ikorodu, Ikeja, Badagry and Lagos witnessed his declaration ceremony at Onikan Stadium, Onikan. The crowd was huge. brooms filled the air. Also present were Christian and Muslim clerics, wives of the Oba of Lagos, Lagos white cap chiefs, top party leaders, members of the National Assembly, party officers from ward, local government and state levels. At the ceremony, he was endorsed by ‘Conference 57’, which comprise of former local government chairmen. After the declaration, he embarked on the tour of the local governments to market himself to stakeholders. When he visited Lagos East AOC elders at Ibeju-Lekki, the elders were unanimous that he is a bumble and pleasant person bubbling with ideas.

    At Onikan Stadium, where he declared his ambition, he promised to build on the foundation laid by Fashola and Tinubu. He promised to preside over a government of continuity, which will promote accountability, quality leadership, good governance and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, if elected as the next governor. Ambode said: “Lagos is my state and you are my people. I shall work to serve you. I shall never do less. here and now, I dedicate myself to this task. I shall not flinch nor lose focus.”

    The representatives of the Muslim Community was led by Imam Olubodun Gbajabiamila, who stood for the Chief Imam of Lagos, Imam Garuba Akinola. Gbajabiamila, who rendered the opening prayer, reflected on the challenges of governance, saying that Ambode is competent to succeed Fashola. He said: “Ambode has been assessed by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu, the Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Akinola Garuba and the political leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. We pray that he will excel in the office.”

    The Chairman of the  ‘Conference 57’,Hakeem Oris, who reiterated the support of the 57 council chairmen for his ambition, said: “Tinubu started the journey to modernity in Lagos. he was succeeded by Fashola, the actualiser. Today, we present Akinwumi Ambode. Lagos requires a financial wizard to continue from where Fashola will stop next year. He will do better.”

    Ambode exuded confidence, saying that it attested to his popularity and acceptance by Lagosians, following his state-wide consultations. He said: “In recognition of this support, I, Akinwumi Ambode, in your presence and in the presence of God, formally put myself forward to run for the position of the governor of Lagos State.  I make this declaration with the highest sense of responsibility. I am putting nyself forward because I belive I have the qualities required to continue the giant strides, which our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has achieved in Lagos in recent years.

    In his speech titled: “Continuing the progress, securing the future”, the Epe born politician said, having witnessed 15 years of growth and development under Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola, Lagos State deserved a governor that would build on their achievements.

    He said: “I stand before you today in the spirit of the continuity of excellence that\Lagos is known for. My vision and mission is to create a clean, secure and prosperous Lagos State driven by a vibrant economy and supported by quality service, equity and justice.”

    “I am resolved to offer you genuine leadership that will be accountable with all the principles of good governance, a government of inclusion that will not leave any race or gender behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe of any other status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos liveable for you.”

    Ambode promised to implement the APC blue print on wealth and job creation, in consonance with its agenda for change and prosperity for Nigerians.  He said stakeholders, including the aged, widows, artisans, students, children, the physically challenges and professionals will be carried along by his administration.

    Ambode also said that his administration will not discriminate against any tribe or ethnic group. He said: “Lagos is the most cosmopolitan state in Nigeria and there is no room for discrimination. Whether you are Igbo, Efik, Ijaw, Hausa, Fulani, a foreigner, whoever you are, so far you live and work in Lagos, our government will work for you and you will be adequately represented.”

    Urging Nigerians to also support the push for power shift at the centre, the politician advised Lagosians to mobilise their families and relations in and outside the state to vote the APC in next year’s election. Firing salvos at the Peopled Democratic Party (PDP), he added: “We are tired of transformation without motion. In their kind of transformation, the more they brag about, the less we see things transformed. And God will help us.”

    Ambode paid tribute to patriots who have served Lagos meritoriously, he said Lagosians will not forget the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Gen. Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef jakande, Asiwaju Tinubu and Fashola. He urged them to also vote for a new governor who will lead the state to greater prosperity in next year’s election.

    Ambode added: “I stand before you today as the bridge between the elderly and the youth. I hold before you a beacon that summons us all to building together a more prosperous Lagos. I have the competence, experience and determination to lead Lagos State to greater economic heights and prosperity. I ask for your support and your votes that will send me to Alausa to continue my tradition of selfless service to this great state.”

    APC chieftain Asipa Kaoli Olusanya said Ambode will get the highest number of votes at the primaries and the general election from the six local governments in Ikorodu Division. He described him as a “techno-politician”, who has garnered experience in grassroots politics as a civil servant in the local government and civil service.  The former commissioner added: “Ambode kicked off his career in Lagos as a waste disposal agent. He moved to the local government as a treasurer. He moved to the civil service and through creative financial engineering, the state survived when the Federal Government moved against the local governments.  On behalf of the six Ikorodu local governments, I tell you that Ambode will have the votes of delegates. he will get 85 percent of votes from Ikorodu.”

     

    Hamzat

    The Commissioner for Works is the son of the party leader, Oba Olatunji Hamzat, the Olu of Awofora-Sogaade, Ogun State. His father was a legislator and commissioner in the Second Republic. His mother is from Lagos State. Hamzat holds a doctorate degree in Agricultural Engineering. Between 2005 and 2007, he was the Commissioner for Science and technology.

     

    Kasali

    Kasali is the former Rural Development and Heath commissioner. He was the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Council. He was a member of the SDP in the Third Republic. When Sarunmi was about to be disqualified, he asked Kasali to obtain the governorship form. But, he declined, saying that the time was not ripe. In 2007, he vied for the position. But, Fashola emerged as the candidate. He later served as Commissioner for Special Duties. He is not a threat to any aspirant. For him, it is not a do-or-die affair.

     

    Shasore

    Shasore is a legal luminary and a member of the Body of Benchers. He was succeeded as the Justice Commissioner by Ade Ipaye in 2011. Shasore is a close friend of Fashola. He was a delegate to the national Conference. He is an astute administrator. But, he is not perceived as a politician.

     

    Ayinde

    Ayinde was Tinubu’s chief security detail. He is a rich man. But, he joined the race very late.

     

    Agbesanwa

    She is the only woman in the race. Agbesanwa hails from Epe. As a governorship aspirant, she will use her participation in the primaries to bargain for appointments after the elections.

  • I will step down for consensus candidate, says Hamidu

    I will step down for consensus candidate, says Hamidu

    An governorship aspirant in Zamfara State,  Alhaji Saghir Hamidu, has promised to step down for any consensus candidate selected by stakeholders.

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain said, since consensus candidacy is part of democracy, he will embrace the option, if it is the wish of the party.

    The politician said religion will not shape thhe the election in the state.

    He promised to focus on education, agriculture and youth development, if elected as the ghovernor. He also promise to construct an airport to enhance socio-economic activities.

    Hamidu said: “Out of the 10.5 million children out of school in Nigeria, Zamfara State has one million. We can’t continue to watch, something has to be done before the figure escalates, I will work to establish functional vocational training centres to support youths with viable ideas.”

    Reflecting on the dwindling internally generated revenue, he said efforts must be made to expamd the revenue base.

    He added: “States can’t continue to rely on dwindling federal allocation, we must start to look inwards, the IGR is too small to breach the shortfall from federal allocations, we must explore the gold resources available in the state to develop our citizens.

    “Zamfara state does not encourage investors, the absence of airport in the state is driving investors away, we need to work on creating one.”