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Tag: governorship

  • Monarchs back governorship candidate

    Monarchs back governorship candidate

    Traditional rulers from Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State have said who they want to succeed Chief Theodore Orji in the Government House next year. It is former Managing Director, Diamond Bank, Dr. Alex Otti who is running on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    The traditional rulers made their position known during a meeting with the governorship candidate at the palace of His Royal Majesty, Eze Sunday Nwankwo of Umuaku, Isuochi.

    They said that what informed their decisions to support his candidature was simply because of the pedigree of Otti and their conviction that he would do better if elected the governor of the state.

    Some of the traditional rulers who spoke in turns, including the host, Eze Nwankwo lauded the former Diamond Bank MD for not only taking the financial institution to an enviable height but also using his former position to provide job opportunities for unemployed Abia graduates.

    The traditional rulers who lamented that the Abia State Government was yet to pay them their three months salary arrears pleaded with the APGA governorship candidate to treat them the way governors of their southeast; Enugu, Anambra amongst counterparts treat their traditional rulers when he emerges the governor of the state.

    In his response, Otti who thanked the traditional rulers for their warm reception promised that his administration was going to focus on urban and rural development programmes to spread dividend of democracy across the state.

    The APGA candidate who boasted of team of professionals among his campaign organisation said they were carefully chosen because of their backgrounds and antecedents, adding that he was optimistic that team was not going to disappoint the Abia electorates if voted in power.

    According to him, “We have been led in the past by people that don’t have vision. It is important for Abians to look for people that are self made and people with proven characters and records. We have carefully selected people that we know that will deliver this state. Through a careful study on Abia State by experts that we consulted, we have been able to identify some of the major problems facing the state which we shall tackle as soon as our administration comes on board”.

    The visitor who said he has so much respect for the traditional institution also assured them that his administration would take care of the traditional rulers needs even as he promised that development in all parts of the state would be simultaneously.

    In an interview, Otti described the visit as part of his campaign programmes to reach out to the people at the grassroots, feel their pulse and sell his manifestoes to the people and convincing them to vote for him and his team.

    He expressed the hope that this year’s election was going to be a lot better than the previous elections going by the promise coming from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s boss (Atahiru Jega) has made to ensure a free and fair polls.

  • 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.

  • PDP governorship aspirants protest in Kebbi

    PDP governorship aspirants protest in Kebbi

    Eight out of the 13 governorship aspirants in Kebbi State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have petition the national headquarters of the party, disassociating themselves from the recent primary held in Birnin-Kebbi, the Kebbi State capital.

    In a two-page communiqué signed by the Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Aliyu and six others, issued, made available to The Nation, they said the process that led to the election did not conform to the guidelines of the party. Therefore, they called for a cancellation of the election and the organization of a fresh one as soon as possible.

    The petitioners argued that there was no screening and accreditation before the commencement of the primary, as stipulated in the PDP guidelines.

    They also stated that the delegates’ register provided by the national headquarters of the party in Abuja is not in sync with the one used for the conduct of the election.

    Voters were intimidated and coerced into voting for the candidate anointed by the government, while a parallel congress was conducted at the Race Course with only one aspirant in attendance.

    The aspirants also noted with dismay that the primary election, which was attended by the State Governor Saidu Dakingari, the Minister of Special duties Kabiru Tanimu and the Electoral Committee Chairman Celestine Omehia was marred by substantial irregularities.

  • PDP governorship aspirants protest in Kebbi

    PDP governorship aspirants protest in Kebbi

    Eight out of the 13 governorship aspirants in Kebbi State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have petition the national headquarters of the party, disassociating themselves from the recent primary held in Birnin-Kebbi, the Kebbi State capital.

    In a two-page communiqué signed by the Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Aliyu and six others, issued, made available to The Nation, they said the process that led to the election did not conform to the guidelines of the party. Therefore, they called for a cancellation of the election and the organization of a fresh one as soon as possible.

    The petitioners argued that there was no screening and accreditation before the commencement of the primary, as stipulated in the PDP guidelines.

    They also stated that the delegates’ register provided by the national headquarters of the party in Abuja is not in sync with the one used for the conduct of the election.

    Voters were intimidated and coerced into voting for the candidate anointed by the government, while a parallel congress was conducted at the Race Course with only one aspirant in attendance.

    The aspirants also noted with dismay that the primary election, which was attended by the State Governor Saidu Dakingari, the Minister of Special duties Kabiru Tanimu and the Electoral Committee Chairman Celestine Omehia was marred by substantial irregularities.

  • Akwa Ibom governorship aspirants denounce primary

    Akwa Ibom governorship aspirants denounce primary

    Following the emergence of Udom Emmanuel as the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, 22 of the 23 governorship aspirants in the state have petitioned the chairman of the PDP Governorship Electoral Panel, Prince Bola Oyebowale, over what they described as fundamental irregularities that marred the recent governorship primary.

    The aggrieved aspirants, which wrote the petition under the platform of ‘Forum of Akwa Ibom State PDP governorship Aspirants’, warned that they would not consent to the legitimization of the charade that took place on Monday called the Akwa Ibom PDP governorship primary.

    In the petition signed by the group, which is led by former Deputy Governor Nsima Ekere and Senator Helen Esuene, it alleged that all the purported delegates from the state were invited to Government House Uyo where they were addressed, threatened, intimidated and induced with one million each to vote for the governor’s preferred aspirant, Emmanuel.

    The aspirants said the list of contrived ad hoc delegates is populated by political appointees of the state government and civil servants.

    They alleged that the government doctored the delegates’ list and that there was indeed several lists of purported delegates. The forum said the first list emanated from the Akwa Ibom Consolidation Alliance and was denounced as fake by both the state government and the state chairman of the party.

    But, ironically, they said the list which was earlier denounced was the same one that was used in inviting delegates to the congress, going by the announcement broadcast on the state-owned Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC).

    “Recently, another list emerged carrying the imprimatur of the National Organising Secretary of the PDP and which list is totally at variance with both the list earlier signed by the state chairman of the PDP and the one announced on radio this morning (Monday December 8, 2014),” it said, adding that the lists are contrived, as no ward congresses took place in any of the wards in the state and at the National headquarters of the party.

    The group said despite the plethora of lists, there was no accreditation of delegates by Prince Oyebowale’s electoral panel “to certify the individuals who are being trafficked in heavily-guarded buses to the venue of the congress from the Government House, Uyo.”

    In his individual capacity, Ekere also petitioned the chairman of the party’s Governorship Election Appeal Panel in Abuja, saying unqualified persons were smuggled into the venue of the congress, “with accreditation cards on their necks, without proper prior ascertainment of their status as the first business of the day, either as purportedly elected ad hoc delegates or statutory delegates known to us, having been consulted in the course of the campaigns for the exercise.”

    According to Ekere: “Because the purported delegates were fake, they could not be accredited at the venue of the congress; their accreditation tags/numbers were not given there, nor their names announced to the hearing of all present at the State Congress by the Electoral Officer, thereby breaching the clear provisions of paragraph 19 (e), (f) and (g) of the Governorship Guidelines of the party.”

    Given the magnitude of the irregularities on the entire process, the former deputy governor is calling for the cancellation of the exercise and the organisation of fresh primaries that would conform to the guidelines issued by the party and the law.

  • Crowded governorship race in Abia

    Crowded governorship race in Abia

    GOVERNOR Theodore Orji of Abia State has denied the existence of an anointed candidate. But, political developments in the state in the last couple of months suggest that one of the aspirants enjoys his backing. His name is Okezie Ikpeazu. The Chairman of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency, Aba Zone, has been enjoying a tremendous support and goodwill from various stakeholders.

    He has been endorsed by several groups and notable individuals in the state. A particular group organized a one million-man match for the aspirant. At the climax of the exercise, within the precincts of the Government House, Ikpeazu was handed over to the governor; symbolizing that he should accept him as his successor.

    Stakeholders were able to read Governor Orji’s body language and this has had a bandwagon effect. As a result, most of the aspirants have lost hope of receiving fair treatment during the primary, because they say the list of delegates was compiled at Government House.

    At the outset, there are about 15 aspirants spanning across the three senatorial districts. But, only eight of them were screened by the party for the race. Beside Ikpeazu, the others are: former two-time Deputy Governor, Acho Nwakanma; business mogul and legal practitioner, Friday Nwosu; Okey Emuchay; oil magnate Sampson Uche Ogah; former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Emeka Nwogu; former managing director of Hallmark Bank, Mark Wagbara.

    Other aspirants who were not cleared for today’s primary include: former Deputy Governor and now Senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe; and the Senator representing Abia Central, Nkechi Nwaogu. Abaribe, who had been very hopeful of getting the governorship ticket, has been asked to return to the Senate. He has however not pulled out of the race formally.

    The same thing goes for Nwaogu. Indeed, she is very bitter about the process leading to the primaries, saying there was no delegates’ congress on November 10 because the entire process was manipulated. Nwaogu, who may be dumping the platform for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), has been lamenting that in spite of being loyal, committed and dedicated to the party, she is not being fairly treated. She is particularly not happy that Governor Orji was cleared to contest for the party’s ticket for Abia Central senatorial race; after she was asked to forget about the governorship and buy the nomination form for the senatorial contest.

    Indeed, many disappointed aspirants have complained about the way the party is being run in the state; they say the party has been hijacked by a family and that their chance of realising their political ambition within the current set-up is slim.

    From all indications, there are no obstacles standing between Ikpeazu and the PDP ticket. The zoning arrangement favours him; he is from Abia South. One thing that could go for Ikpeazu also is that he has the backings of the first family and some of the state party executives. The zoning arrangement also favours him because he is from Obingwa Local Government Area in Abia South.

    But, the irony is that the former lecturer at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has never really been involved in politics as such. His opponents in the race have chided him several times, saying that the state doesn’t need a political greenhorn like him.

    There are fears that it may not augur well for the state, if Orji succeeds in installing Ikpeazu as the next governor. Observers are apprehensive that Orji who is popularly known as Ochendo may cage Ikpeazu like his predecessor (Orji Uzor Kalu) did. Such fears are justified, particularly with the governor’s son, Chinedu Orji and his associates being positioned to represent their various constituencies in the state house of assembly. They insist that Ikpeazu will remain a stooge in the hands of Ochendo. It is said that Chinedu is being positioned to become the Speaker of the state house of assembly, with the aim of checkmating Ikpeazu.

  • 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.

  • Ayinde’s governorship aspiration gets boost

    Ayinde’s governorship aspiration gets boost

    Four socio-political groups in Lagos State have thrown their weight behind the aspiration of Tayo Ayinde to govern Lagos State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the party primaries scheduled for this week.

    The groups are: the New Hope (NH); the Asiwaju Youth Alliance (AYA); the Progressives Movement (PM) and the Asiwaju For Life (AFL). Membership of the groups cut across the entire 57 Local Government Areas (LGA) and Local Council Development Areas in the state.

    With this development, which has given Ayinde’s aspiration a boost, the groups have decided to form an alliance to cement their support for Ayinde.

    Describing the governorship hopeful as a bright and vibrant personality, who has the capacity, experience and knowledge required to take Lagos to the next level of development, former Chairman, Badagry LGA and leader of one of the groups, Hon. Abraham Iroko, noted that their decision to form an alliance is to present a united front to be stronger and better to confront the tasks ahead of them.

    Similarly, the President, Asiwaju For Life, Mrs. Ola Williams, pointed out that her decision to collaborate with other groups to support the governorship ambition of Ayinde was owing to his (Ayinde’s) political experience and clean record as a Senior Officer of State Security Service.

    Meanwhile, Ayinde, who thanked members of the groups, however affirmed that he will not disappoint Lagosians, if elected governor.

  • I’m ready for Kano APC governorship race’

    A Kano State governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Usman Alhaji, expressed his preparedness yesterday to ensure his victory in next year’s election, if he gets the party’s ticket for the 2015 poll.

    Alhaji said no other governorship aspirant was working as hard as he had been doing, adding that he has introduced a fresh dimension to campaigns in Kano State.

    The APC chieftain said he had been visiting and meeting people at the ward level.

    He noted that even House of Assembly aspirants did not take their campaigns to as low as the ward level as he had been doing.

    Alhaji said: “So, this time round, as I am talking you, I have visited and met people in not less than 360 wards in the state, out of the 484 wards. And by the grace of God, I intend to complete this new all-time campaign style before the end of the primaries. So, I can assure you that I am reaching out to the people, a lot more than any aspirant has done so far.

  • APC governorship aspirant seeks special status for Lagos

    APC governorship aspirant seeks special status for Lagos

    A chieftain of the All progressives Congress APC), Hon. Lanre Ope, has  said that Lagos State has been shortchanged by the Federal Government. adding that it deserves a special status.

    Ope, who spoke when he  declared his intention to contest next year’s governorship, said the state deserves recognition for catering for people from all over Nigeria and  its contribution to the economic prosperity of the country.

    He said facilities in the state have been overstretched because everyday people are coming to Lagos in search of greener pastures.

    The governorship aspirant said he would consolidate on the achievements of Governor Babatunde Fashola, if given the opportunity to govern the state.

    Ope, a former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, addressed a mammoth crowd at the historic Eleganza Sports Complex, Epetedo, Lagos. The broom revolution resonated at the complex, as indigenes and residents of Epetedo community on Lagos Island trooped out  to support one of their own.

    The aspirant said the people of Lagos deserved a better, deal because they have been robbed of their joy and happiness over the years, particularly by the central government. He said his campaign tagline, #LeapLagos, has become a buzzword on the social media space because it simply talks about springing to a great height.

    “It’s about raising the consciousness among Lagosians that we can soar and leap in bounds in all facets. My campaign is premised on this as I want a Lagos that will continue to set the standards as with the present administration in the state, so that we can collectively take that giant leap,” he told the gathering.

    He said Lagos State is blessed because it was governed after the return to civil rule in 1999 by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who laid the foundation for its future development and later by Fashola, who built on the foundation of his predecessor.

    Ope is a seasoned politician and consensus builder, who has served in various public service roles at the federal and state levels, including being elected as one of Lagos State delegates to the 1994 National Constitutional Conference.

    While in the Lagos State House of Assembly, he sponsored some motions, including the Child Rights Bill and the bill that led to the establishment of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA). During the period, he was appointed into various House committees, where he made valuable contributions to the development of Lagos State.