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Tag: PRIMARY

  • How to avert post-primary crisis – Lebi

    How to avert post-primary crisis – Lebi

    Morayo Lebi, lawyer and governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, spoke with Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU on his plans for the state, preparations for the shadow poll and how to avert post-primary crisis.

    What are the factors or issues  that will shape the Ondo APC primary?

    It’s an important election, an off- cycle election where the national attention will be focused on our activities. What is paramount to all stakeholders is to elect a candidate that will lead the party to victory in the general election.  Therefore, the issue of loyalty, consistency and character will be serious factors.  Because of the experience in the recent past,  the issue of reward for aborigines that have been consistently supporting the building of the party over the years, especially those who have not been rewarded for their commitments to the party, will be a serious factor. Of course, integrity will be another vital factor; aspirants without baggage such as certificate,  financial, and debt issues are those to be reckoned with as no sensible party will want to present a candidate that will be chased away in court due to scandalous background.

    Another point that will also be a factor is someone acceptable across the board.

     The party is polarised in Ondo State because of the controversy over the sickness and the eventual death of our former governor. The party needs someone who can unite all factions occasioned by the controversy.

    How can the party ensure a free, fair, and credible shadow poll?

    APC’s leadership has already put a watertight process in place that will ensure a credible,  acceptable, free, and fair election. Besides, the electoral umpire,  INEC, will mobilise their officials to monitor the elections as promised recently by Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chairman.

    What is the assurance that you will be able to beat other aspirants at the primary?

    The assurance can only be given by God. Nobody receives anything without being given by God. However, as an aspirant, I have done my homework. I am known in the party for my efforts over the years in building the party from scratch.  My commitments and financial contributions to the growth and entrenchment of the party across the state are well known to most of the members and leaders of the party. I haven’t taken anything for granted for I have equally gone across all the 18 local government areas in the state, 203 wards, and all units. I have coordinators in every ward.

    Besides, I have impeccable records and unbeatable track records both in the conduct of my private affairs and in my relationship with all stakeholders. I have sold my vision and mission to all our party faithful, that I have the capacity to transform the fortune of the state and so far, they are excited by the opportunity our aspirations offer.

    The governor who wields the power of incumbency is in the race. Is that not a threat to your aspiration?

    No. His Excellency, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, is a governor today by divine unfathomable orchestration.  In 2015, when I was running for Senate in Ondo South which comprises six local governments,  Mr Aiyedatiwa contested for the House of Representatives which comprises two local governments.  The so-called power of incumbency could be an advantage and it can also become an albatross. People will want to know what he has done so far with the famed incumbency power. What projects has he successfully executed so far with the incumbency power at his disposal? Has he been able to unite the party or not? Anyway,  Governor Lucky is simply not a threat to my aspiration.

     How can Ondo APC avert a post-primary crisis?

     Like your first question,  this is another critical question that requires sobriety. The party must be fair to all stakeholders. The process must be transparent and the track records of aspirants shouldn’t be overlooked. And, I am sure that post-primary management of both the winners and others will be put in place.

    Some aspirants may be planning to step down. What is your view?

    It is part of exercising the fundamental human and political rights of aspirants to decide whether to step down for other aspirants or not. There will be political rapprochement, alignment re-alignment, and understanding among aspirants.  But, as for me, Barr Morayo Lebi,  I am in the race to win.

    What is the importance of the next governorship election for Ondo State?

    It is an election that will usher in fresh people with fresh ideas into governance. The outgoing administration will be leaving after 8 years ( together with the late Governor because it was a joint ticket). Also, after 16 years, Ondo Southern District will be having one of their sons as the occupant of Alagbaka Government House. Talking seriously too, the people are desirous of change in terms of concrete and verifiable development. There’s a new President with a new team and agenda that is giving some positive vibes in the economic sector. There’s a massive road being constructed that will link Lagos to Calabar that will pass through Ondo State. The last administration approved a Sea Port for the state. These are serious opportunities that must be leveraged by the coming administration and these and many more reasons why the election is very important.

    What edge do you think you have over other contestants?

    I have virtually answered this in one of the questions you asked me above. I have been a loyal,  dedicated,  and committed party man, an aborigine! I have helped in building the party across the state starting from my ward in Akotogbo to Akure, state office. I have devoted a huge chunk of my personal resources to the funding of the party without any corresponding reward so far from the party. Most of the contestants merely joined the party to hijack what some of us have laboured so hard to build.  They are here to merely fulfil political ambitions.  Most of them are shamelessly reaping where they haven’t sown. My antecedents as a Lawyer, businessman, and philanthropist, coupled with my provable academic records, and my robust agenda for the overall prosperity of the state, I am sure, I am the most suitable person to win this contest. My agenda for the overall development of the state and my passion is the edge I have over others.

    As you are in this race, what is your Plan B?

    What do you mean by plan B? Those always running around, jumping from one party to another party are the ones you should be asking about their Plan B or Plan Z! My only plan is to emerge the candidate for my party and emerge victorious in the general election scheduled for November.

    Read Also: Ondo APC primary and Aiyedatiwa’s battles

    What is responsible for this bravado in Ondo APC that makes its stakeholders think that it cannot be displaced by PDP during the governorship election?

    What’s bravado? What’s the crime in having conviction that your party is unbeatable? Oh, you don’t think the incumbency factor ( as you press guys like to put it) will be to our advantage this time around? Our late leader, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, laid a solid foundation and we are leveraging on his achievements. Nationally,  President  Bola Tinubu and his team are re-kindling hope in the economy and don’t you think it will have a positive effect on the election? If those are what you are calling bravado, I think they are well-earned.

    What are your core plans for the state, if you become governor?

    Massive infrastructural developments,  youth empowerment through education( ICT), agricultural revolution, integrated rural development,  prudent resources management. We shall harness our natural resources and endowment like the coastal areas, nearness to Lagos, etc to transform our dear state. Ondo State has the geographical advantage and we are going to utilize that advantage. In the area of tourism, we are going to globalise Ondo State so that it would attract international investment in tourism as it has been successfully done in Dubai and other progressive countries in the world.

    What is responsible for the feeling in Ondo APC that direct is better than indirect primary?

    Can you share with me how you arrived at this conclusion? Well, if it’s for academic exercise, I can reel out the advantages, benefits, and also the demerits of both the direct and indirect primary election.  Whatever system is being adopted is decided by the party. It’s their prerogative.  What matters is the transparency, fairness, and integrity of the entire process. Let everything necessary for the conduct of a free and fair election be put in place with adequate security and top-notch logistics.

  • Aiyedatiwa, Oke, Jimoh, Akinterinwa to face direct primary

    Aiyedatiwa, Oke, Jimoh, Akinterinwa to face direct primary

    • Two women in race for ticket
    • Party rakes in N720m from sale of nomination, expression of interest forms

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is to conduct the April 20 Ondo State governorship shadow election through direct primary.

    A letter to this effect signed by the National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and National Secretary, Sen. Ajibola Basiru, was sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the primary.

    Deputy National Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, confirmed the mode of election to our correspondent in a phone conversation in Abuja last night.

    Asked what mode of election will be used for the party’s April 20 Ondo State primary, the former House of Representatives member said:

    “We are using the direct primary mode of election for Ondo State governorship shadow poll.

    “This decision has equally been conveyed in a letter signed by the National Chairman and the National Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the party has adopted direct mode of election for Ondo State shadow poll.”

    Two women are in the race for the APC governorship ticket in Ondo State.

    The party has raked in N720million from sale of expression of interest and nomination forms.

    At the close of sale yesterday, 16 aspirants have picked the forms ahead of the April 20 governorship primary election to elect the APC standard-bearer for the November 2024 Ondo State Governorship Election.

    The party realised the money from 14 male aspirants, who picked the forms for N50 million each and two female contenders, who paid N10 million each for the expression of interest form, as women and persons living with disabilities are exempted from paying the N40 million nomination form.

    Read Also: APC settles for direct primary to pick Ondo Gov candidate

    The exercise, which started on March 27, closed yesterday.

    Checks at the party’s Directorate of Organisation showed that the incumbent governor, Lucky Ayiedatiwa and 15 others picked the expression of interest and nomination forms to contest for the party’s shadow election later in the month.

    The Nation gathered that all the aspirants but two were male. The female aspirants are Funmilayo Mary Whaeed Adekojo, an engineer and Mrs. Funke Omogoroye Folakemi Judith, also an engineer.

    Those who obtained the forms include Olusoji Adewale Ehinlanwo, Hon. Okunjimi Odimayo John, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and APC National Vice Chairman (Southwest) Duerimini Isaacs Kekemeke.

    Others are Akinfolarin Mayo Samuel, Adewale Okumuyiwa Akinterinwa, Olugbenga Omogbemi Edema, Chief Olusola Alexander Oke (SAN), Gen. Ohunyeye Olamide Felix, Morayo Lebi, a lawyer; Garvey Oladiran Iyanjan, Prof. Francis Adebayo Faduyile and Ifeoluwa Olusola Oyedele, an engineer (Male).

    The aspirants have till tomorrow to submit their filled forms to the Directorate of Organisation.

    Currently, the revalidation of the membership register is being conducted in the 18 local governments ahead of the local government congress.

  • Revitalising primary healthcare for a healthier future

    Revitalising primary healthcare for a healthier future

    Dr. Faisal Shuaib, the Executive Director/CEO of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), has emphasised that the primary care level is pivotal in preventing and managing up to 70 percent of the disease burden in Nigeria. He made these remarks during the annual AMOHN conference organised by the Association of Medical Officers of Health in Nigeria, Lagos Chapter.

     Represented by Dr. Oritseweyimi Ogbe, Dr. Shuaib underscored the adverse effects of limited access to Primary Health Care (PHC) services and the resulting financial burdens incurred when seeking care at secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. He noted that these expenses push many households deeper into poverty. Dr. Shuaib also highlighted that the persistently high disease rates and poor health indicators in the country reflect a fragile PHC system, exacerbated further by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

     During his keynote address at the AMOHN conference,  with the theme: ‘Overview of National Primary Health Care under one roof performance: Nigeria’s journey towards Universal Health Coverage,’ the NPHCDA boss stressed that a robust Primary Health Care (PHC) system with functional primary health centres can significantly enhance the overall well-being of Nigerians. This, in turn, reduces poverty and contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and national health security.

     He pointed out that the PHC system’s inability to function optimally is primarily attributed to persistent intrinsic institutional challenges. These challenges include a shortage of human resources, service delivery issues, and inadequate infrastructure. He expressed concern that despite Nigeria’s status as the largest economy in Africa, the country still records unfavourable health indices that adversely affect human capital development. Dr. Shuaib highlighted that approximately 70 per cent of PHCs lack the necessary healthcare personnel, leading to an increased workload for existing staff, resulting in suboptimal PHC services. He also noted that around 35 per cent of PHCs urgently require renovation due to structural issues, such as leaking roofs, cracked walls, and broken doors. Additionally, many PHCs lack essential equipment, with four out of 10 facilities falling short of the standard requirements.

     Dr. Shuaib acknowledged the gradual progress of the Primary Health Care Under One Roof (PHCUOR) initiative in Nigeria, with 13 states successfully repositioning their PHC programmes under the State Primary Health Care Board (SPHCB). However, he stressed that full repositioning is critical to the successful integration of PHC programmes, and only 13 states have achieved this milestone, including Abia, Adamawa, Delta, Gombe, Kano, Kebbi, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Plateau, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara.

    Read Also: Afenifere hails tribunal ruling on Atiku, Obi petitions

     The Commissioner for Health in Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi, emphasised the importance of revitalising and repositioning primary healthcare as a cornerstone of the community’s well-being. He highlighted the need for accessible and affordable healthcare services at the Primary Health Centres while maintaining high standards. Prof. Abayomi outlined various strategies employed by Lagos State to enhance PHCs, including infrastructure development, manpower training, and improved governance and resources. He emphasised the importance of addressing nutrition and promoting community medicine as part of the state’s commitment to improving public health.

     “Over the years, we have developed innovative strategies in the area of infrastructure, manpower, governance and training and resources. One infrastructure, the first thing we did in our last dispersion is to establish all three tiers of government in the Primary Healthcare Sector which has recognised that many of our PHCs were not built fit for the public, so we went the extra mile to develop three prototypes that are energy efficient and functional and equipped with infection prevention control. Also, we noticed that some of the PHCs required refurbishment, so we started with 20 centers which are almost 50 per cent ready through the completion phase.

    “What we are trying to achieve is, if you are in a community, you don’t need to skip Primary Health Care facility and rush to a General Hospital; your first medical attendant should be your PHC in your community/ward to access your illness. If they can’t manage your condition, they can refer you to the General Hospital, but you don’t go to the general hospital as your first point of contact but your PHC.

     “Aside from this, we are looking at community medicine. We want to address and improve nutrition for everybody in Lagos State because the brain of a child is dependent on how they are fed in the womb of the mother for 9 months and the first five years of life. If we are talking about human capital, without capital Lagos cannot move forward. Medical officers are important to the growth and development of our nation-building because you are custodians of human capital development. To achieve all these, we strategy to create a marriage between the Primary Health Care Platform and Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) which is the custodian of Ile Eko,” he said.

     Dr. Olanrewaju Tejuoso, the chairman of the occasion, discussed the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases in Nigeria, urging medical experts to explore innovative ways to sustain immunisation efforts. He emphasised that the globalised world necessitates maintaining adequate immunisation coverage to prevent the rapid spread of diseases across borders. Dr. Tunde Osoba, Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of AMOHN, reiterated the significance of fully implementing the Primary Health Care Under One Roof model in Lagos State, emphasising its potential to address various healthcare challenges, including human resources, monitoring and evaluation, sustainable PHC funding, and governance. Throughout the conference, medical experts and practitioners engaged in insightful discussions on critical healthcare issues affecting Nigeria. Prominent speakers included Dr. Chinenye Okafor, the State Coordinator of WHO Lagos, Dr. Adenike Oluwo, Dr. Jide Obosi, Zouera Youssoufou, Dr. Wale Adediran, Dr. Adeleke Awolesi, Dr. Alero Roberts, and others.

  • Primary: APC faithful in Ojo, Badagry stage peaceful protests

    Some members of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ojo Local Government area of Lagos state, under the aegis of the ‘Concerned Leaders of APC’, yesterday braved the heavy downpour to stage a protest against alleged plan to impose a candidate on the party for the Ojo Federal Constituency. They appealed to APC national leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and other leaders to save the partly from implosion by ensuring the aspirant that won the primary is announced the party’s flag-bearer.

    The group said they suspect attempts by certain elements within the party to subvert the people’s will by manipulating the primary election to favour an aspirant that emerged third during the exercise. The group said: “Hon. Durosinmi scored 3,798 votes followed by Hon. Taiwo Saheed with 2, 587 votes, while Hon. Lanre Ogunyemi who came distant third with1,753 votes appeared in the purported list.

    “We are seeking quick intervention to call on the people that are behind this illegal act. The people of Ojo Federal Constituency have expressed their choice by voting massively for Hon. Durosinmi. Our plea is in the spirit of justice and fairness as propagated by our party, the A PC.” The petition was signed by Chairman APC Ojo Local Government, Hon. Joel Tudonu and his counterpart at Iba LCDA, Hon. Babatunde Lawal, as well as Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, a former House of Representatives member .

    Similarly, APC youths from Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), under the aegis of Badagry Youths Alliance for APC, on Saturday protested over alleged plan to impose a candidate for the Badagry Federal Constituency election in 2019. According to the youths who carried placards with various inscriptions, there was the need for justice and a level playing field for all aspirants in the just concluded primaries of the party.

    The protest was to express their grievances over the planned imposition and rejection of result. The protesters arrived at the State Secretariat in Acme, with placards, expressing their rejection of the alleged imposition plan. Zosu Solomon, the spokesman of the group, said it became expedient at this time to call on the Alhaji Tunde Balogun, the state chairman of the party to wade into the matter in order to save it from an imminent defeat in 2019 elections.

     

  • Ashafa seeks APC members’ support at primary

    SENATOR Gbenga Ashafa said yesterday that he is ready recontest for the Lagos East in the 2019 election.

    He urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) members to defend their votes at the primary.

    Speaking at a conference attended by members of the Lagos East APC, he said there were important issues concerning Lagos that needed to be logically concluded.

    He said the special status for Lagos initiated by Senator Oluremi Tinubu was already enjoying the support of his colleagues at the National Assembly.

    Ashafa said it was important to follow it to a logical conclusion, noting that his good relationship with colleagues across different parts of the country had helped in gaining support for the issue.

    The senator said: “You will agree with me that our district currently stands tall on the legislative precedents that have been laid down by the succession of senators that have represented us since 1999.

    “It is a legacy of excellence, which the Lagos East District has worked hard to maintain and improve upon. Nothing short of excellence is expected and nothing short of excellence is deserved by the resilient, industrious and hardworking people of Lagos East.

    “In the last seven years, through your supports, I have been able to deliver 96 per cent verifiable and functional projects, 26 bills and 12 motions of local and national importance. We have been able to deliver poverty alleviation programmes that have benefitted 50,000 of our constituents directly and even more.”

    The senator urged the people to vote him at the APC primary, noting that he was the candidate to beat at the shadow polls.

    “I will contest in the primary scheduled for October 2, cast your vote for me and defend it. We need to prove to the world that power has returned to the people.

    “Politically, we have remained one. We have remained resolutely committed to the progressives and democratic ideals of our National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and our great party the APC.

    Also speaking, Lagos East APC leader Chief Olorunfunmi Bashorun said the party should support its present senators, adding that Ashafa and his colleagues had done well.

    He said: “The party cannot afford to deny senators who are presently making huge contributions at the National Assembly. We need Senator Ashafa at the National Assembly.”

  • Adamawa: Ex- SGF, Aisha Buhari’s brother, Ribadu, insist on direct primary

    Stakeholders, governorship aspirants and statutory delegates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State led by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr. Babachir Lawal have warned that any attempt to foist the indirect primary option on the party in the state may cause the party the 2019 governorship election.

     

    The stakeholders including Dr. Mahmud Halilu, believed to be brother to the Wife of President Muhammadu Buhari and former EFCC Chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu told a news conference in Abuja at the weekend that only primaries conducted through direct option will be acceptable to the generality of members of the party in the state.

     

    The former SGF who spoke on behalf of the stakeholders said that as a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, there is no way a proper stakeholders meeting can be held in the state without being invited, adding that the meeting which endorsed indirect primary for the state was secretly called and held inside the government house.

     

    He reminded leaders of the party at all level of a pending appeal against the conduct of the congresses that brought the current leaders to office in the state, adding that any primary conducted by such a group will be null and void.

     

    Lawal said: “Further to our press conference of 27th April 2018 on APC elective congresses, we are constrained to once again express our total rejection to the Indirect Primaries being concocted by Adamawa State Government and their cohorts.

     

    “You will recall that the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great Party APC has adopted the Direct Primaries for the nomination of candidates for the 2019 general elections. We hereby commend our dear National Chairman Comrade Adams Oshiomole and members of the NEC of our Party for the progressive landmark decision which is also in accordance with the yearnings and aspirations of the members and the general public and the need to strengthen our internal democracy.

     

    “For a long time especially in the days building up to the current political activities, otherwise key and respectable stakeholders in the Party have been increasingly marginalized and Party activities and processes carried out more and more shrouded in secrecy to exclude legitimate interests.

     

    “This policy of exclusion came to a head with the purported meeting of the State Executive Committee convened at the Government house on Monday, September 3, 2018 where Indirect Primaries was allegedly adopted as mode of electing Party flag bearers.

     

    “That meeting was convened secretly and thus, we the undersigned aspirants, statutory delegates and critical stakeholders were kept in the dark and were not invited. It was therefore a meeting of like minds, persons who are prepared to perpetuate illegality to satisfy the whims of a single individual who has totally lost out in popularity and integrity.

     

    “We, as aspirants, statutory delegates and stakeholders want to unequivocally dissociate ourselves from the purported resolution which was done in bad faith and is bound to affect the image and chances of our great Paty in the forthcoming elections.

     

    “The larger majority of the APC family in Adamawa received the news of the adoption of Direct Primaries by NEC of the Party with pleasure and enthusiasm. Our members are pleased that they are going to help the Party in nominating credible, acceptable and marketable candidates to fly the Party’s flag. We, therefore, cannot allow unpopular persons who are afraid of voters to change the rule of the game.

     

    “It is equally necessary to remind all the parties concerned of the pendency of an appeal filed in respect of the outcome of the ward, local government and state congresses in Adamawa state in May, 2018. Step taken to over reach or disregard the legal processes may result in the nullification of whatever the outcome sooner than later.

    “The focus of our APC government on integrity exemplified by transparency, accountability and total eradication of corrupt practices should have no room for Indirect Primaries.

     

    “It is in his commitment to the culture of probity and accountability that President Muhammadu Buhari opted for Direct Primaries. As we stated in our letter to our dear National Chairman NEC, we affirm support for Direct Primaries based on our firm belief that encapsulates the following among other merit.

     

    “Direct Primaries is an inclusive way of deciding who flies the party flag with all bona fide members of the party having a chance to make their choice. It gives meaning to membership of the party as followers are included in taking vital decisions like who represents their party in the general elections.

     

    “Democracy differs from feudalism. It is by popular definition a means of governance by the people and for the people. Making contests open and transparent, with everybody having a say, as in Direct Primaries, is a true expression of democratic values which the APC strives to uphold.

     

    “Because Direct Primaries happen at different places at the same time, it enables peace and tranquility, as well as orderly conduct by all involved in the process.

     

    “The Indirect Primaries (delegate system) is long discredited for wanton use of money and sheer corruption. With a notice of pending appeal already served on the Party and seven others, Indirect Primaries is not an option at all.

     

    “To cap it all, in his wisdom and culture of ethics and uprightness, President Muhammadu Buhari chose to have the Presidential Primaries in direct form, and wonder why anyone else, with even smaller constituency would oppose the popular choice of the people and that of our dear President.

     

    “We also want to assure the Chairman, and by extension the National Secretariat, that Adamawa State is fit and ready for Direct Primaries. There is the needed tranquility and peace to guarantee peaceful election all over the state.

     

    “It amuses us, and all those who care to ponder, that the same persons who claimed to have conducted congresses in all wards of the state will now change overnight to make a case against Direct Primaries because of alleged insecurity.

     

    “The exclusion of well-meaning members of our party like us did not start today, or with the purported stakeholders meeting of September 3. Long before now, the Party and its affairs are skewed to exclude persons considered as threats to the ambition of some individuals.

     

    “We and our supporters were completely shut out of the congresses at all levels in the state in May this year. Forms were hoarded by State Party officials and our supporters only managed to purchase forms after we protested to the National Headquarters and an extension was granted to accommodate us. Yet, the process was still hijacked and committees sent to conduct those congresses were either bought over or hijacked to do the bidding of the state government.

     

    “Some of us have written letters to draw attention to this plight and reject outcome of the so called congresses, but were shockingly ignored by the party, thus the concerned parties decided to go to court to protest the clear fraud perpetrated in the name of congresses.

     

    “We therefore feel there is no legitimacy for a set of people whose purported election is still being challenged before the courts to be allowed to conduct or participate in the primaries. Rather, the process should be opened up and thrown at all Party members to take decisions in who they want to fly the party’s flag.

     

    “We once again assure our great Party of our total support and loyalty to its progressive leadership while firmly hoping that the right thing will be done.”

    Those who attended the briefing include Engineer Babachir D. Lawal, Senator Ahmed Abubakar Mo’Allayid, Senator Abubakar Halilu Girei mni, Senator Bello Tukur, Engineer Marcus Gundiri mni, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu mni, Sadiq Muhammed (Walin Ganye), Dr. Mahmoud Halilu.

  • Ekiti extends long term holidays for primary, secondary schools

    Ado Ekiti- Ekiti State Government yesterday extended the current long term holidays for students in public and private primary and secondary schools.

    Education, Science and Technology Commissioner, Jide Egunjobi, said in a statement in Ado Ekiti that all schools would now resume on Sept. 24, as against Sept. 14.

    The commissioner said the extension of the holidays became necessary to allow the various schools conduct interviews for fresh students across the state.

    Besides, he said the extension would also allow for consolidation of the school system before resumption of pupils and students.

    Consequently, all parents, guardians and other stakeholders in the education sector are urged to take note of the extension and disseminate the information appropriately.

    The commissioner implored teachers and workers in various schools to brace up for better service delivery as they await the new resumption day.

     

  • Warming up for direct primary in race for Osun governor

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC) yesterday approved the recommendation of the Osun State Working Committee, led by Gboyega Famodun, for the adoption of direct primary for its governorship shadow election. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the arguments for direct and indirect primary by opposing forces in the party.

    The coast is clear for the adoption of direct primary for the election of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State. According to the guidelines by the National Working Committee (NWC), aspirants and party members were enjoined to brace for the option, which it said, was constitutional and adopted in the best interest of the party.

    In the last few weeks, the chapter has been polarised by forces rooting for a direct primary, and those clamouring for an indirect primary. The third force is favourably disposed to a consensus. In this group are old political war horses and experienced politicians who have been on the turf since the First Republic. Although they are still largely perceived as the esteemed moral voice, their preference lacks the backing of the APC Constitution and the Electoral Act. Besides, they are in the minority.

    The core options of direct primary and indirect primary have their foundations in the APC constitution. According to the constitution, the nomination of a candidate for governor “shall be through direct or indirect primary election.” But, the law is silent on which of the options is superior. The constitution does not prescribe the condition that may warrant the choice or rejection of either of the options. Therefore, the onus is on the party to adopt an option.

    How the adoption is to be done is not outlined by the constitution. The implication is that the agitations for direct and indirect primaries are legal. Also, the two options have their advantages and disadvantages. How the direct or indirect primary is managed has implications for the chapter, ahead of the governorship poll.

     

    The direct model

     

    The idea is the legacy of the American progressive democratic model. Under the direct system, registered party members choose party candidates through secret ballot in a manner similar to a general election. Since it is perceived to be more transparent, the corruption which often mars the delegate system is reduced. There will be no room for ‘delegate camping.’ There is the likelihood of increased participation and aspirants may develop confidence in the wider elective process. Also, the fear that a large number of aspirants is seeking for votes is reduced.

    According to experts, direct primary offers opportunity for the candidate to test his popularity, ahead of the main poll. It gives party members an equal chance of electing their candidates. Voter’s turnout is huge. The model provides the chance for a test of stamina in the preliminary election.  To get votes, the aspirants must be up and doing. They must enlarge their networks and be ready to consult widely and mobilise for victory.

    However, the crowd is huge and management of the crowd will require skill and strategy. Emphasis may now be placed on quantity instead of quality of participation. Many voters may not be informed and therefore, lacks the competence to make informed choices. Therefore the “mass voters” need education and enlightenment. Since a lot of mobilisation has to be done, it may be too tasking for aspirants who lack the resources for intra-party campaigns and logistics. The voting hour may be elongated, thereby creating stress for the Direct Primary Committee.

    In some states, the delegate system were rancorous. The exercise was marred by unruly behaviour of delegates. This challenge can be aggravated by the direct method due to the high population of participants. The choice of venue must be considered. Will the direct primary participants assemble in a venue like the delegate system or the direct election will be conducted in layers at the wards or local governments?

    Oshiomhole said: “All card-carrying members of the party will be involved in the process of selecting the party’s candidate.”

    This means that the screening or accreditation of voters will have to be done at the wards, using the party membership register. This also means that the register must not be tampered with to ensure the credibility of the process. If a party member has lost his membership card, there should be an opportunity for him to obtain new ones before the exercise. Also, defectors whose names have not appeared on the register must make haste to register.

    Since its inception in 2014, the APC has always adopted the indirect primary for the choice of its governorship flag bearers in many states. But, Osun may have blazed the trail of adopting the direct model when the process was adopted in selecting Governor Rauf Aregbesola as candidate for a second term in 2014.

     

    The indirect option

     

    Unlike the direct primary, voters in the indirect primary are elected or selected delegates from the wards and local governments, and statutory delegates, including governors, elected party officers, legislators, members of Board of Trustees (BoT) and other party elders. Many have criticised the delegate system as a fraudulent method, which confers an advantage onthe highest bidder among the aspirants. However, since the direct system has not been widely tested, there is anxiety among party members who believe that it may spell doom for the chapter.

    The responsibility for organising the shadow poll is not vested in the State Executive Committee and State Working Committee of the party. The power to make “rules and regulations for the nomination of candidates through primary elections” is vested in the NWC, subject to the approval of the National Working Committee (NWC). Although the State Executive Committee and State Working Committee can issue some pseudo-guidelines on governorship nominations, they do not take precedent over the NWC’s position.

    Party sources disclosed that, since the consensus of opinion favours the direct system, the State Working Committee, led by Gboyega Famodun, the chairman of the party, proposed it to the NWC. The recommendation was backed by an overwhelming evidence of popular preference.

    However, the provision for direct and indirect primary is not made in isolation of other criteria for nomination. According to the APC Constitution, “all such rules, regulations and guidelines shall take into consideration and uphold the principles of federal character, gender balance, geo-political spread and rotation of offices, to as much as possible, ensure balance within the constituency covered.”

    In Osun APC, those rooting for direct primary appear to be more vociferous, unlike the supporters of the pre-existing delegate system. Although some aggrieved chieftains have written to the NWC, urging it to retain the delegate system, they were disowned by party officers across the local governments.

     

    The best process

     

    Famodun, who advocated for the shift of emphasis from the indirect to the direct system, gave five reasons for its viability, potency and superiority. He said the State Working Committee recommended it to the NWC because it gives party members a wider opportunity for participation in the shadow poll, unlike the delegate system. Besides, he said a direct primary would signify popular participation by ensuring the “largest participation” of party members from the 30 local governments. In Famodun’s view, “a direct primary promotes democracy, reduces the intimidation of delegates, bribery and other electoral malfeasance and prevents monetisation of the process.”

    He added: “The direct primary system will also address the fear of imposition of any person as candidate of the party, as being alleged in some quarters, and it helps in mobilising members and popularising the party in the state.”

    Party officers at the grassroots are in the same frame of mind with Famodun. The Secretary of the Forum of Local Government Party Chairmen, Rufus Oyegbile, said a popular governorship candidate can only be elected at the direct primary.

    He warned against the adoption of the delegate system, saying it could be disastrous.

    Denying a report linking the forum with the clamour for an indirect primary, he said: “We are not subjectively and objectively against the implementation of the constitutional provision of direct primary for the nomination of our flag bearer in the forthcoming September 22 governorship election.”

    In its letter to the APC National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the forum maintained that a hitch-free direct primary is the answer. It said the direct system will throw up a generally acceptable, popular and presentable flag bearer, while preventing “the selective wish of few financially-induced persons, who are major determinants of previous primary election.”

    According to the forum, the direct method of election will allow the over 300,000 registered APC members in Osun to participate in the nomination of the flag bearer. It will foster internal democracy, give members a sense of belonging and prevent the hijack of the process by money bags.

    The forum said: “The new initiative, when implemented, will be a moral boosting episode to all members that they are also major stakeholders in the dynamic APC project, where over 300,000 persons as against the selective method of just 5,000 statutory delegates. It will further strengthen internal democracy, mobilise all our members to participate at the primary and this will energise them in preparation for the main election.

    “The claim of popularity by a section of the aspirants among the delegates should have made them more joyous as their popularity will soar higher among party members. Alas, their sinister motive to forcefully coerce the delegate structure, have been uncovered.

    “That is the only reason they are vehemently rejecting the popular demand of our members for direct participation in the nomination of the governorship candidate, which will entail collective collaboration.

    “Precautionary measures guiding our noble stance arise from the primary concluded in some states lately where it is of public knowledge that money through financial inducement was a key determinant of who eventually flew the party’s flag. The delegates, as discovered elsewhere and presently on-going in our state, have launched a negotiation platform with aspirants, in exchanging votes for money.

    “We must discourage and discontinue such fraudulent template. One of the decimating and limiting factor of the PDP that nailed them to the cross of opposition today is the rain of dolarisation of all their elective processes. We are not PDP. We are APC, the party that stands for positive change. We must strive and work hard to show transparency indeed and in conduct.”

    Eyes are on the Direct Primary Committee headed by Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Chairman and Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari. He has the responsibility for presiding over a transparent and credible exercise that will be applauded by 17 aspirants on Thursday. Anti-direct primary aspirants have two options. It is ether they fall in line with the party’s directive or opt out of the contest.

    More guidelines are expected from the panel on the modalities for a successful primary.

  • Primary: Will Ekiti APC get it right?

    The repeat governorship primary of the Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) will hold tomorrow in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. Will history repeat itself? Will the gladiators put their house in order? Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU captures the anxiety of party members.

    Will the so-called progressives get it right the second time? Will the gladiators learn from the lessons of last Saturday? Will a clear winner emerge from the primary of the Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) slated for tomorrow in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital? Eyes are on the troubled chapter.

    For the Ekiti APC, this is a trying moment. For four years, it has been out of power. The party claimed that it was rigged out in the 2014 poll, which former Governor Kayode Fayemi, lost to the out-going Governor Ayo Fayose. Now, less than three months to another election, the house is divided.

    Ekiti APC suffers from a self-inflicted wound. Many believe that the party has a bright chance at the July 14 poll. But, its botched primary was a major set back. It was the climax of intrigues and campaigns of hate that characterised the pre-primary consultations and mobilisation of delegates.

    No fewer than 32 gladiators are competing for the ticket of the major opposition party. They are not stangers to one another. Observers had warned that the primary may end in a frasco due to the large number of contenders. The aspirants are endowed with hearts of steel and stone. They have a republican disposition. Unfortunately, there is no leader in Ekiti who can whip them to line.

    They are combative, over-confident and full of bravado. In the course of mobilisation, aspirants elevated their personal interests over and above the larger, collective interests of the party. As they waxed stronger individually, they also suffocated and weakened the platform the candidate will ride to power.

    There was a clash of ego last Saturday. Aspirants and delegates stormed the Kayode Oluyemi Stadium as if they were going to war. Cracks deepened on the wall. Observers contended that, judging by the aggression of the contenders, the party had become more divided. Even, the flag bearer that will emerge tomorrow will have to concentrate more on post-primary reconciliation, instead of kicking off his campaigns immediately.

    If the 32 contenders dissipated the energy and resources they have invested in the primary to APC campaigns, the party will shake the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Ironically, Ekiti APC is now being advised to emulate the PDP because the ruling party organised an orderly and transparent shadow poll.

    Time is running out. The name of the candidate must be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on or before next Tuesday. Thus, APC is warming up for a make or mar exercise.

    The onus is on the party elders and leaders to drum it into the ears of the 32 contenders that time is of essense.

    The pitfall of last week should not be repeated. The Al-Makura Panel should remain neutral and impartial. The aspirants should warn their delegates and supporters against unruly behaviour capable of tarnishing the image of the party.

    If the primary is inconclusive again, the only option is for Southwest APC leaders to form an electoral college empowered to select a candidate out of the lot in their wisdom. This will breed more strife and rancour.

    If 22 aspirants decide to withdraw from the race today, it will not be perceived as an act of cowardice, but a patriotic sacrifice for the survival of the party. It will be a relief. Even, with 10, it is still a crowded race.

    Only two contestants participated in the PDP primary, which was perceived to be free and fair. Yet, the loser has not congratulated the winner. What will happen tomorrow after the close of poll? Will the 32 congratulate the winner? Will they reject the potential overtures to defect to other parties? Will they team up with the winner?

    Politics is about personal interest. But, there should be a limitation. If the pursuit of personal interest will put the party’s collective interest in jeopardy, the ambitions politician should learn to pull the break. What is the significance of getting the ticket to contest on the platform of a weakened, polarised and decimated party?

    This is a challenging moment for Ekiti APC. The competitors should not cripple the future of the party as they pursue the interest of today.

     

  • Ekiti 2018: APC governorship primary to hold May 6

    Ekiti 2018: APC governorship primary to hold May 6

    The flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for this year’s governorship election in Ekiti State will be elected on May 6, The Nation has learnt.

    The date has been picked for the conduct of the party’s primary where the candidate will be elected by delegates at a yet-to-be-determined venue.

    The party’s proposed schedule of activities, which our reporter obtained yesterday, shows that APC will begin the sale of its Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to governorship aspirants on April 6.

    The commencement of expression of interest forms to aspirants is exactly one month to the shadow election.

    After the conduct of the primary on May 6, hearing of appeals arising from the shadow poll will start on May 8 and end on May 11.

    The electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has fixed July 14 as the date for the governorship election.

    Voters in all the 2,195 polling units, comprising 177 wards and 16 local government areas will go to the poll to elect a new governor.

    Governor Ayo Fayose, who won the June 21, 2014 election, is expected to leave office on October 15.

    According to the schedule, Osun State APC governorship primary will hold on July 7.

    The sale of nomination forms to aspirants jostling to succeed Governor Rauf Aregbesola will start on June 25.

    Hearing of appeals arising from the primary will hold between July 9 and July 12.

    The Osun State governorship election will hold on September 22.

    According to the schedule, the APC national convention to elect members of the National Working Committee (NWC) will hold on June 30.

    The congresses for electing ward officers will hold on March 3 while appeals arising from the ward congresses will hold between March 5 and 9.

    March 17 has been picked as the date for the conduct of local government congresses while appeals from aggrieved aspirants will be heard between March 18 and 25.

    State congresses to elect officers of the State Working Committees (SWC) will be held on April 14 while appeals arising from the state congresses will be heard between April 16 and 20.

    Party members will elect zonal officers at the zonal congresses on May 12 while aggrieved candidates will table their appeals between May 14 and May 18.

    Houses of Assembly’s primary will hold on September 15; House of Representatives primary on September 19 and the Senate primary on September 20.

    Appeals arising from legislative primaries will hold between September 17 and 30.

    The states’ governorship primary (except in Kogi, Bayelsa, Edo, Ondo, Anambra, Ekiti and Osun) will hold on September 22 while appeals will hold between September 24 and 27.

    The national convention to ratify a presidential candidate, according to the timetable, will hold on September 29.

    INEC has scheduled the 2019 presidential and National Assembly polls on February 16, 2019, while the governorship and State Assembly elections will hold on March 2, 2019.