The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Promised Land

  • Buhari ‘ll lead Nigerians to Promised Land, says Support Group

    The Buhari/ Osibanjo Mandate Group, one of the many support groups working for President Muhammadu Buhari’s re-election, said yesterday that Nigerians should support the President lead the country to the “Promised Land devoid of money politics”.

    National Coordinator Prince Europe Martins told reporters yesterday that Nigerians must be careful not to hand over the country to desperate politicians who spend billions of Naira to secure nomination as Presidential candidate, saying: “what do you expect if such a person is voted in to govern this country”.

    Martins asked Nigerians to select the best among the Presidential candidates who has the interest of the nation at heart and not those who are desperate for power, and lacking the integrity to govern.

    He called on all Nigerians to support President Muhammadu Buhari administration in its drive to ensure infrastructural development.

    Countries all over the world, including China and Dubai are able to succeed because of their ability to put in place proper infrastructure and it is on record that none of them was able to do this within four years a day the good news for Nigeria is that President Buhari has started putting together proper infrastructure for the country”, he said.

    According to him, Nigeria had the largest number of abandoned projects before the coming of the Buhari government,  stressing that the government had started completing those projects because of his believe that they are important to the overall development of the country.

    While commending the government for the take off of the Mambilla Hydro power project,  Martins reminded Nigerians of how the previous governments wasted 16 billion dollars on power project without anything to show for it while the Buhari government had raised power generation to about 7,000 megawatts.

    He said the social intervention programmes of the government were not popular because they are targeted at the poor

    Leader of the South East Forum Chief Ansleem Njoku said every sensible Igboman with the interest of the people at heart should know that a Buhari second term is the only guarantee for an Igboman President in 2013.

    He pledged that the south east would give the President an overwhelming support because he is the only president that has genuinely addressed the marginalisation of the Igboman nation through infrastructural development and the payment of pension too retired ex-Biafran policemen.

    He challenge other political parties to an open debate regarding the provision of infrastructure for the South East, saying: “they should come out and tell us what they have been able to do for the South East over the years despite our support and we will show them what President Buhari has been able to do for the South East in just three and half years despite not voting for him in 2015”

  • Mustapha: ‘I will take Kwara to promised land’

    Mashood Mustapha is a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State. In this interview with SINA FADARE, Mustapha argues that the time is ripe to bring the people of Kwara State out of the woods.

    At what point did you decide to contest for Kwara State governorship?

    Yes, l have seen it all as somebody from the private sector, a legislator, a former commissioner and a Senior Special Assistant on Legislative Matters and Inter-government to the Senate President. I have gone through the phases of governance. With the experience garnered as a successful entrepreneur, one is better placed to serve as governor. The intention is to lift my people from poverty and see how we can actually change the narratives. The only way to do this is the combination of what you have just said. One thing that cannot be bought with money is experience. You can use it for the betterment of the people. I am contesting because l am strategically placed to do this for our people.

    Kwara State has been left behind in terms of development, compared to other states created at the same time. What are you bringing to change this narrative?

    I would run an inclusive government. If you notice, the people are showing that they are really tired and yearning for a change in whole system. Kwara used to be in the conservative side, which has led us to where we are now, but what is important is a determination to have a change. However the change will not come until the time is right. To me and my colleagues, the time is ripe for that change and that was why the responses from the people are very overwhelming. To those of us who are very close to the grassroots, l can see the cry of agony, neglect and frustration written all over our people; they are all yearning for the time the suffering will be over. That is why l took up the challenge, as somebody who has seen it at all. I want to be an agent for the needed change. When l saw that the powers that be want the oppression to continue, l resigned my appointment as the Special Adviser to the Senate President last January, realising that the only way we can return confident to the people is to remove that barrier. The barrier has created a dichotomy between the government and the people. There shouldn’t be any line of demarcation between the government and the people. Anything that accrues to the government belongs to the people. It is a common patrimony. The era has gone where the government will just decide to do whatever it likes for the people; it should be what the community desires to have that should be provided by the government. By so doing, they will have a sense of belonging. A community may need portable water, but if you fix their roads, it may not be valued at that particular time.

    A particular dynasty has been in control of the affairs of Kwara for some time. How would you break this syndrome?

    There is nothing that lasts forever. In the recent past, there was a paradigm shift in the system, where the late Dr Abukakar Olusola Saraki, a philanthropist per excellence, did a yeoman’s job in the political space of Kwara and he was appreciated. But, the situation changed since 2011, when the father and his son, Dr Bukola Saraki, took separate paths. Now, the situation has changed; we cannot extend to the son what we did to his father, because time has changed. An individual cannot continue to dictate the political space of Kwara. No way! Nobody will tell the people of Kwara to eat when they are not hungry or to sit down when they want to stand up, or to keep quiet when they are being oppressed. That is why we have gone to this level. We are bringing freedom not only to the polity of Kwara, but quality and a sense of belonging to all, where everybody who is aspiring will be free to exercise his or her fundamental rights without intimidation or threat.

    What are you going to offer the people?

    I am an advocate of direct primary. If you have gone round the state, they will tell you that l believe in the people and their participation to elect their leaders. I left the other camp, because they are not thinking about how to empower the people but how to enslave them. No, l will not be a party to that; in all my interaction and daily operation, service to humanity has been my watch word. That is what dragged me into politics. I am always happy when l wipe tears from the eyes of the people, by providing a succour for them. I am not desperate to be governor, so I will by the wishes of the people. Anybody that wins in the primary, let others support him. Let everybody know that there will always be another time. This is our state; all hands must be on deck to make it a place where all will be proud to live. The people have seen it all and know the person that can take them to the promise land.

    What will be your priority, if you become governor?

    We want to introduce what is call practical governance. The governor will not seat down in the office, expecting monthly allocation from Abuja. We are going to use our contacts, both within and outside the country, to create job opportunities for our teaming youths who are presently roaming the streets. We will try to leverage on the support of the Federal Government, to attract needed projects for the state. l was Commissioner for Agriculture. I know the potentials that agriculture can bring in the area of empowerment and job generation to the people of Kwara State. l will go all out to do this, so that within a short time we will get to the promise land. Instead of sitting down in the office, enjoying the paraphernalia of office, l will go out to see how much investment l can attract to the state. We do not have any other place to go; that is why I have invested heavily in this state.

    Are you not scared by the level of decadence in the state?

    Yes, l am. Recently, l travelled to the nooks and crannies of Kwara South senatorial district, the level of infrastructural decay is scary. The poverty on the faces of our people is even scarier. So, if l tell you l am not scared, it is an understatement. But, l believe that with God and the experience l have l will take Kwara away from the woods.

    How did you transform from being a conservative to progressive politician?

    It is possible because in life nothing is static. Life is very feasible on its own, even religion that is sacred people still change from one to another. If you believe in one ideology and you feel such ideology is not working for the common purpose of the generality of the people, you can seek a new platform to effect a change. The bottom line is the result; the ability to render service to the people, so that their lives will be positively transformed.  The problem with most leaders is that they do not look back to ask the question, why a particular action was taken and to realize that there is a limit to every human endeavor. No matter what you do, there is always a life limitation that you cannot cross, no matter how powerful you are. The moment you know this, you must set your target and priority right and put things together with all zeal, so that politics is separated from governance. Kwara was created in 1976. Some states that are created 20 years, after Kwara was created, are better than Kwara today, in terms of infrastructural development. This is so, because everything was politicised at the expense of the interests of the people at the grassroots.  A governor should go out of his way to look for technocrats who can build a virile and dependable system that will be like an umbrella for all to take cover. We should not be too scared about the situation on ground, but the hope for a better tomorrow which we would all build together. I know the time we introduced commercial agriculture which was a laudable initiative, but along the line we derailed and that landed us to where we are today. We are not coming to rubbish anybody, but to take Kwara to the next level. I am saying enough of dancing on a spot without movement; the time is ripe to take Kwara State to the promise land.

     

  • Mustapha: ‘I will take Kwara to promised land’

    Mashood Mustapha is a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State. In this interview with SINA FADARE, Mustapha argues that the time is ripe to bring the people of Kwara State out of the woods.

    At what point did you decide to contest for Kwara State governorship?

    Yes, l have seen it all as somebody from the private sector, a legislator, a former commissioner and a Senior Special Assistant on Legislative Matters and Inter-government to the Senate President. I have gone through the phases of governance. With the experience garnered as a successful entrepreneur, one is better placed to serve as governor. The intention is to lift my people from poverty and see how we can actually change the narratives. The only way to do this is the combination of what you have just said. One thing that cannot be bought with money is experience. You can use it for the betterment of the people. I am contesting because l am strategically placed to do this for our people.

    Kwara State has been left behind in terms of development, compared to other states created at the same time. What are you bringing to change this narrative?

    I would run an inclusive government. If you notice, the people are showing that they are really tired and yearning for a change in whole system. Kwara used to be in the conservative side, which has led us to where we are now, but what is important is a determination to have a change. However the change will not come until the time is right. To me and my colleagues, the time is ripe for that change and that was why the responses from the people are very overwhelming. To those of us who are very close to the grassroots, l can see the cry of agony, neglect and frustration written all over our people; they are all yearning for the time the suffering will be over. That is why l took up the challenge, as somebody who has seen it at all. I want to be an agent for the needed change. When l saw that the powers that be want the oppression to continue, l resigned my appointment as the Special Adviser to the Senate President last January, realising that the only way we can return confident to the people is to remove that barrier. The barrier has created a dichotomy between the government and the people. There shouldn’t be any line of demarcation between the government and the people. Anything that accrues to the government belongs to the people. It is a common patrimony. The era has gone where the government will just decide to do whatever it likes for the people; it should be what the community desires to have that should be provided by the government. By so doing, they will have a sense of belonging. A community may need portable water, but if you fix their roads, it may not be valued at that particular time.

    A particular dynasty has been in control of the affairs of Kwara for some time. How would you break this syndrome?

    There is nothing that lasts forever. In the recent past, there was a paradigm shift in the system, where the late Dr Abukakar Olusola Saraki, a philanthropist per excellence, did a yeoman’s job in the political space of Kwara and he was appreciated. But, the situation changed since 2011, when the father and his son, Dr Bukola Saraki, took separate paths. Now, the situation has changed; we cannot extend to the son what we did to his father, because time has changed. An individual cannot continue to dictate the political space of Kwara. No way! Nobody will tell the people of Kwara to eat when they are not hungry or to sit down when they want to stand up, or to keep quiet when they are being oppressed. That is why we have gone to this level. We are bringing freedom not only to the polity of Kwara, but quality and a sense of belonging to all, where everybody who is aspiring will be free to exercise his or her fundamental rights without intimidation or threat.

    What are you going to offer the people?

    I am an advocate of direct primary. If you have gone round the state, they will tell you that l believe in the people and their participation to elect their leaders. I left the other camp, because they are not thinking about how to empower the people but how to enslave them. No, l will not be a party to that; in all my interaction and daily operation, service to humanity has been my watch word. That is what dragged me into politics. I am always happy when l wipe tears from the eyes of the people, by providing a succour for them. I am not desperate to be governor, so I will by the wishes of the people. Anybody that wins in the primary, let others support him. Let everybody know that there will always be another time. This is our state; all hands must be on deck to make it a place where all will be proud to live. The people have seen it all and know the person that can take them to the promise land.

    What will be your priority, if you become governor?

    We want to introduce what is call practical governance. The governor will not seat down in the office, expecting monthly allocation from Abuja. We are going to use our contacts, both within and outside the country, to create job opportunities for our teaming youths who are presently roaming the streets. We will try to leverage on the support of the Federal Government, to attract needed projects for the state. l was Commissioner for Agriculture. I know the potentials that agriculture can bring in the area of empowerment and job generation to the people of Kwara State. l will go all out to do this, so that within a short time we will get to the promise land. Instead of sitting down in the office, enjoying the paraphernalia of office, l will go out to see how much investment l can attract to the state. We do not have any other place to go; that is why I have invested heavily in this state.

    Are you not scared by the level of decadence in the state?

    Yes, l am. Recently, l travelled to the nooks and crannies of Kwara South senatorial district, the level of infrastructural decay is scary. The poverty on the faces of our people is even scarier. So, if l tell you l am not scared, it is an understatement. But, l believe that with God and the experience l have l will take Kwara away from the woods.

    How did you transform from being a conservative to progressive politician?

    It is possible because in life nothing is static. Life is very feasible on its own, even religion that is sacred people still change from one to another. If you believe in one ideology and you feel such ideology is not working for the common purpose of the generality of the people, you can seek a new platform to effect a change. The bottom line is the result; the ability to render service to the people, so that their lives will be positively transformed.  The problem with most leaders is that they do not look back to ask the question, why a particular action was taken and to realize that there is a limit to every human endeavor. No matter what you do, there is always a life limitation that you cannot cross, no matter how powerful you are. The moment you know this, you must set your target and priority right and put things together with all zeal, so that politics is separated from governance. Kwara was created in 1976.

  • I’ll back candidate who ‘ll lead Nigeria to Promised Land, says Obasanjo

    FORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday declared that he is ready to support anybody that will take Nigeria to the promised land.

    The elder statesman spoke when former Minister of Special Duties and Inter -government Affairs  Kabiru Tanimu Turaki visited him at his Abeokuta home, the Ogun state capital.

    Turaki was in Abeokuta to intimate Obasanjo of his ambition to join the  2019 presidential race.

    Obasanjo said: “For me, I’ll continue not to rest until we get this country to where God wants this country to be. There is no permanent arrangement for the indivisibility of Nigeria. I share your concern but I believe that no one can do it alone.

    “And for me, anybody who will lead Nigeria to the promised land, will have my support.

    “We are in a position to do better than we are doing but in a situation of the world today, where whatever is happening can be seen instantly, we have to create a good image to the world. But some of the things we do inadvertently or inadvertently are not creating that good image.”

    According to the former president, those destroying the country were not necessarily the bad ones perpetrating evil, but people who being in a position to speak out, elected to remain silent.

    Obasanjo described such people as “Nigeria’s worse enemies”, vowing that he would not stay mute while bad things were being done,.

    The ex-President noted that God has endowed Nigeria with men and women who can stand their onions anywhere in the world, saying he would not relent in demanding good governance until Nigeria reaches  where God destined her to be.

    “Let me say that what is happening here today or what you’re making to happen with your delegation particularly gladdens my heart. You are firming up and stabilising our democracy. Democracy is not a destination but a journey and there is no nation that can claim to have reached the final destination.

    “It is good for us as a nation and our democracy. We have said a lot of things that we have identified about what we need to put right as a country.”

    According to him, Turaki’s presidential aspiration is  a pointer to the fact that Nigeria is not short of leadership that can perform if given an opportunity.

    Turaki, who spoke with reporters after the meeting,  described it as “fruitful and encouraging”

    “We have discussed openly, honestly and frankly about the current situation in this country and like always, Baba was of tremendous guidance to us,” he said.

     

     

  • We’ll take Nigeria to Promised Land, says Tinubu

    National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu yesterday assured all that the party would take the nation to the Promised Land.

    Delivering a speech at its national convention in  Abuja, Tinubu said the party had redirected the nation to the path of progress and development after years of misrule by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    His words: “Joined in goodwill by common purpose and noble endeavor, we assemble this day. The doubters who gave APC no chance of existence or of continued survival have gotten their reply in full. Their envious prayers and complaints have been answered in reverse.

    “They wanted to see the end of us and our pursuit of good governance for Nigeria. You should not forget, as I shall never forget, the strong efforts they made to stop us in the courts.

    “There were twelve cases brought trying to stop us from merging, from registering the new party, then attempting to bar our candidate from the election.

    “Lacking the courage to face the democratic will of the people, they tried to misuse the courts as a weapon against democracy. We thank the judiciary for following the letter and spirit of the constitution by dismissing this dirty dozen of malicious cases filed against us.

    “With their schemes foiled, those who tried to destroy us must bear witness to the destruction of their edifice of corrupt governance and their dreams of unjust domination of our nation.

    “While they planned a lifetime of greedy enrichment by looting the people’s resources and the public treasury for 60 years, we moved to reform the economy to bring development and aid to the poor.

    “When they called for hate and division, we strove for compassion and unity. When they hoisted the standard of bias, we raised the flag of justice and the chevron of fairness.

    “When they sought to make Nigeria a monument to corrupt government, we sought to remake Nigeria into a place of transparency and honest opportunity for all.

    “The APC’s formation is the most important political development in our recent history. This is not due to the names of those who founded the party. It is because of the ideals upon which the party was established.

    “The APC was not brought into existence to compel the majority to serve the few. For 16 consecutive years, the PDP had already assumed that mean role.

    “The APC came into being to reverse this unjust equation.

    “Under the PDP, the people were made to let the beast ride them.  The APC came to stop this travesty. By right, it is the people who are to ride the beast not the other way around.

    “As we go through today’s deliberations, we must keep in remembrance and put into action the purposes for which this party was formed.

    “Yes, human nature is partly composed of personal ambitions. Life would be incomplete without such goals and dreams. Yet, we must be motivated by other things more sublime than our personal benefit.

    “As good citizens of Nigeria and members of the party, we must seek to prosper with society more that we seek to prosper from society.

    “In the APC, we are many but we are also one.

    “Thus, we must stand together for democratic good governance or stand not at all.

    “We have experienced much since our inception. Unexpected events and harsh realities emerged to block our way. Those who detest progress fought severely against us. And they are still fighting.

    “Yet, we remain true to our beliefs.

    “In a few short years, we have done more than the other party did in 16 long years.

    “During their years, oil prices and government revenues were high.  They had more money but less moral commitment to the common welfare.

    “They neither established school-feeding programs nor created a safety net for the poorest among us. We had less but did these things because we cared more.

    “Under the PDP, terrorists planted their wicked flag on our soil, controlled territory and spread mayhem as they willed.

    “Now, that evil flag of Boko Haram no longer flies over any of our land.  Their fantasy of establishing an empire has forever been dashed. They are retreating and being beaten by the day. The APC government accomplished this while the PDP spent money with no result except increasing misery.

    “Where did the money go? When the PDP holds their convention and presents their candidates, the public should ask them.  If the question is asked, theirs will be the quietest convention ever held. They dare not answer the question with honesty for an honest answer will destroy them.

    “Our party has made progress but much work remains. We have overcome recession but that is an insufficient cure to many. We must accelerate economic growth and bring prosperity to all.

    “We must create jobs wherever we find the jobless. We must help bring food to the tables of the hungry. We must bring light where darkness now resides.

    “We must continue to squash corruption where it stands.

    “People continue to suffer violence in several places. We must end the violence and untangle the root causes of such conflict.

    “We must reclaim Nigeria’s place in the world as the leader of the African cause and black race.

    “These things will be challenging. This is why we must band together as one party, one family, one purpose, one people.

    “As a very old and wise woman recently told me: “Don’t worry son. You are doing well but you mustn’t get tired. Your broom is good but it takes more than one stroke to clean a filthy house.”

    “Well, the PDP left us a dirty house. As we complete this four-year term, we complete but one stroke of that broom in cleaning that house.

    “We are here today to prepare our way so that we may continue to right the wrongs that have been left by others for us to correct.

    “You are here to build a better Nigeria.

    “This means we must join hands even more tightly than before.  Over the past few months, there has been jockeying and competition for the various positions in the party.

    “Today, we conduct the elections to fill these vital posts. Those who sought posts were all qualified and good people. While only one person can win, the party needs you all.

    “You all have competed as is your right in a democratic setting. Now, competition must end. Reconciliation for the great battle ahead – the general elections – must commence.

    “We must show the people that we conduct our internal affairs differently than other parties just as we adhere to different ideas and policies than these other parties do.  They are backward. We are progressive. They are despotic. We are democratic. Now, we must walk the same as we talk.

    “Today I appeal to you to accommodate each other by giving greater emphasis to the progressive bond that unites us so that we attain victory in the electoral battles to come.

    “The success of the APC convention today is such that it sets our eyes at the edge of the spear.

    Under President Buhari, Nigeria has found its rightful course.  Discipline and collective purpose are taking root. Government has become accountable. Bleakness turns to hope.

    “President Buhari has done significant work clearing away yesterday’s mess so that we may reach a better future.

    “When his critics grossly falsify by saying he has not achieved enough, remember what the old woman told me “Your broom is good but it takes more than one stroke to clean a dirty house.”

    “The old malpractices of the PDP that have soiled what should be our beautiful national home. We now must continue cleaning it for the benefit of all Nigerians, even for the members of the PDP who have done so much harm because we are a party of compassion and togetherness not one of malice and intolerance.

    “Be proud to be of the APC.  We are on a mission to save our nation. When you return home, speak not only of what we accomplished today.

    “But enlighten your people about the policies and ideals of this party so that they will know which party is day and which is night, which party seeks to be their servant and which again schemes to be their master.

    “To the APC governors, Excellencies. You are the wheels on which the party moves. You have found ways to close ranks and wisely resolve issues in the overall interests of the party.

    “You have rallied behind President Buhari and refused to be moved by anything other than the good of this collective enterprise. Your comportment has been inspiring.

    “To our lawmakers, your efforts are recognized. Without your contributions, providing responsible and good governance would be impossible.

    “We ask you to do even more to advance our party’s policy agenda and help the president enact laws that ensure prosperity and justice reign throughout the land.

    “APC Women, you are the heart and conscience of the nation and our party.  You must always raise your voice to ensure that we remain true to our goal of improving the lot of the average family.

    “We count on you to run for elective office and to galvanize support for the party throughout the land.

    “Great APC youth (pause and repeat). Your intelligence, skills and patriotism tell us you are ready to serve. That we believe in you is evident by Mr. President signing the “Not too young to Run” bill into law.

    “If you seek progressive governance that gives every Nigerian a fair chance, the APC is the home for you. We welcome you home.

    “Before closing, I must mention something of high concern. Our progressive agenda has been hampered because elements of the PDP remain embedded in the many agencies and ministries so crucial to daily governance.

    “They have been as a fifth column, undermining our policies at every turn. While impeding reform, they also plot the comeback of their reactionary brethren to power.

    “This is something we should no longer abide. Our party teems with competent, reform-minded people who would perform admirably in these positions.

    “It is time to sweep out the PDP remnants and put in position people, who actually care about the people.

    “Some among us feared that today we would be joined by the presence of rain. Don’t fret. Let the rain fall if it must. For it is a sign of a great washing.

    “We, the party of the broom, should understand more than anyone else what this represents. The rain symbolizes that we are to wash away the remaining shards of the old, unjust politics so that we can set forth a better path for Nigeria.

    “Thus, let us be equal to the historic moment before us. Let us dedicate ourselves to uplifting the average man, woman and child. Let us dedicate this day to the establishment of a compassionate political culture and social consciousness.

    “May this mighty broom that we have become sweep aside that which needs to be swept aside so that all Nigerians may enter into their finest destiny with national pride and utmost dignity.

    “We are ready. We are the APC. We are Nigeria.

    “May God bless you all and bless our beloved republic.”

  • Buhari ‘ll take Nigeria to promised land, says Adesina

    Buhari ‘ll take Nigeria to promised land, says Adesina

    THE Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity), Mr. Femi Adesina said yesterday President Muhammadu Buhari is fulfilling his campaign promises to Nigerians, particularly in stimulating the economy for job creation, anti-corruption campaign and security of life and property.
    He spoke while receiving a delegation of Northern Youths Initiative for Peace and Good Governance in Abuja.
    A statement by the Deputy Director (Information), Office of the Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity), Attah Esa, said Adesina urged Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s commitment to take “Nigeria to the Promised Land.”
    He said: “I am glad that majority of Nigerians are still with President Buhari.
    ‘‘The excitement and jubilation, around the country, that greeted his return to Nigeria recently is a clear testimony of the love, confidence and belief, which Nigerians have in his leadership.
    ‘‘We are witnessing a positive turn around in the economy, agriculture, the fight against corruption, job creation and I am very confident that President Buhari will lead Nigeria to the Promised Land before the mandate given to him by Nigerians lapses in 2019,’’ Adesina said.

  • At 56 Nigerians not yet in promised land

    SIR: If a country’s greatness is determined by the promises and rhetorical prowess of its leaders, Nigeria of course would have become one of the most powerful and economic vibrant nation. Since 1960 the agenda to transform the country into a developed nation has never been lacking. The pledge and desire to make Nigeria a formidable force to be respected in international community by every Commander-in-chief can never be overemphasized. Every inauguration of new President presents a wind of hope across the length and breadth of the country. But after a while the national interest becomes optional and citizens betrayed as the leader in charge usually blazes through a solo path of self-enrichment and compensation of cronies. As a result Nigerians have been placed in a permanent state of expectations.

    Nigerian as a country is blessed with abundant human and natural resources. It is no longer news that Nigerian is the most populous black nation and one of the largest exporters of petroleum on earth. Ironically, there is no gainsaying to state that in spite of these natural gifts, Nigerians are still suffering from endemic poverty, epileptic power supply, dilapidated infrastructure, ethno-religious and resource control crisis. In essence Nigeria’s problem is not paucity of resources, but rather the inability of successive governments to convert the windfalls into public good.

    Some school of thought relates poverty with large population and therefore blames population growth in Nigeria as a major setback to human and economic development whereas China the largest populated country is indisputably the fastest growing economy in the world. In as much as we recognize the efforts and sacrifices of our leaders to get things done the right way, it is however pertinent to state categorically that apart from natural disasters and war, the major causes of poverty and underdevelopment are bad governance, corruption, injustice, mismanagement and lack of diversification.

    Just as a deaf person needs no warning at a troubled market, every Nigerian knows without recourse to economic indicator that hard times are here. However, since a day is not criticized until nightfall, there could be hope of a better and prosperous Nigeria if government should guarantee observable progressive difference in social, judicial and political setting. It is also expected that government should reduce unemployment and inequality, create conducive political space to accommodate eligible Nigerians without regard to their creed, tribe and party affiliation.

    While we commend government on relative security and the courage to declare war against corruption, it should also declare state of emergency on food security and fight corruption without any trace of vendetta or favour. Another challenge before the government of Nigeria and the people is that the world attention is still on the fate of the Chibok Girls and the Internally Displaced Person (IDPs).

    We therefore call on government to quickly initiate the release of our girls and provide adequate security and food to the IDPs in short term and subsequently resettle them in their ancestral homes.

    Finally, the Federal Government should as a matter of urgency revive the economy, dialogue with the aggrieved persons or groups, improve health standard and standard of education, then Nigeria  could stand shoulder high again in the comity of nations.

     

    • Comrade Chike Leo Oguanya;

    Tudun Barki Suleja, Niger State.

  • Buhari will take Nigeria to promised land, says Osinbajo

    Buhari will take Nigeria to promised land, says Osinbajo

    Vice President Yemi Osinbajo yesterday said President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration will take Nigeria to the promised land.

    He spoke at the 56th Independence Anniversary Interdenominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.

    The promise of God, he said, includes building a new Nigeria where there will be peace from north east to the Niger Delta, and where there will be jobs for the unemployed.

    “We are on our way out of the wilderness”. He stated

    Describing Nigeria as the light of the world and salt of the earth, he appealed to Nigerians not to be dismayed by the economic situation.

    “We should not be like children of Israel when He took them out of Egypt and after few problems became grumblers in chief.

    He said: “As children of God we must declare this nation will prosper, we must be like our father who is the great encourager.

    “Our message to Nigeria is be strong and of good encourage, do not be dismayed, every Nigeria will benefit from the new Nigeria.

    “God saw our nation and decided to put this leadership in place, this leadership will take us across the red sea to the new Nigeria”. He stated

    President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Dr. Samson Supo Ayokunle, who delivered the message, said the leaders need divine revelation and to receive wisdom from God to handle the economy.

    According to him, the wisdom from God will prevail over the economic recession in the country.

    Despite the huge resources in the country, he said that Nigeria found herself in recession for a number of reasons.

    One of the causes of the recession, he said, was Nigeria’s inability to save during the rainy days.

    He said: “They were siphoning the resources for their pockets. We got into this also because of our inability to diversify. We killed our agriculture for oil.

    “We are all responsible for the self-imposed trouble. There is hope; help will come from above for Nigeria. There is a way out in the mind of God if we seek Him.” He added

    As a way out of the recession, he advised the government to go beyond party affiliations as the solutions are not limited to the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

    The government, he said, should be able to listen to others, promote and celebrate excellent leadership.

    Urging Nigerians to always put God first in all they do, he called on employers of labour to always do everything possible to pay workers their salaries and allowances.

    He also urged the government to always promote the politics of love and not hate.

    Noting that the country is also being troubled by insurgency, militancy and unemployment, he advised that the quicker Nigeria stopped paying lip service to agriculture, the better for the nation.

    “When you have left office, what will you be remembered for?” He queried

    “Judgment of God is coming. The corrupt Nigerians that have not been apprehended will not escape the judgment of God.” He said

    He urged the government to restore religious studies and discipline in schools.

    Part of the scriptures the clergy read in the Holy Bible included Isiaiah 60: 9 to 20 and 1st Chronicle 12:32.

    The 1st scripture reading was taken from Ezekiel 37: 1 to 14 by a representative of the judiciary.

    The 2nd scripture reading was taken from Romans 8: 28 to 39 by Chief of Defence State Gen. Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin.

    Intercessory prayers were said for the nation, security and economic challenges, for the President, Vice President and other executives.

    Prayers were also offered for the legislature and the judiciary, peace and development of the country and the unity of the church.

    Dignitaries at the occasion included Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir David Lawal, Wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, former Vice President, Alex Ekwueme, Senator Olorunimbe Mamora, Senate President Bukola Saraki was represented by Senator Barnabas Gemade.

  • Can Salvador take Lagos PDP to promised land?

    Can Salvador take Lagos PDP to promised land?

    At the recent congress of the Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Adegoke Salvador succeeded Capt. Tunji Shelle (rtd) as chairman. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU highlights the challenges that will confront the new leadership. 

    Can Adegoke Salvador, the new Chairman of the Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), succeed  where his predecessors failed? As he kicks off his tenure as the new helmsman of the crisis-ridden chapter, eyes are on the businessman-turned politician.

    Those who will him in the task of re-building the party include Prince Muiz Shodipe (Secretary), Chief Ola Apena (Deputy Chairman), Taofik Gani (Publicity Secretary), Taiwo Kuye (Organising Secretary) and Princess Plateru-Olagbegi (Women Leader).

    After receiving the mantle of leadership, the chairman’s message was conciliatory. He lauded chieftains who have stood against division in the party. He also urged aggrieved members to sheathe their swords. Salvador said: “Today, a new era has come and I want to appeal to all aggrieved members to work together for the progress of our party.”

    The chairman said the party could move mountains, if it is united. He peeped into the future, saying that the PDP can defeat the ruling party, it put its house in order. “We have ample opportunity to defeat the APC. We all have a responsibility to make this party great. Let us, therefore, work together to make this party a great one,” he added.

    His major tasks include forging unity in the obviously divided house, ensuring fairness and equity, and resolving the personality clashes between the warring leaders, especially former National Deputy Chairman Chief Olabode George and former Minister of State for Defence Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

    Salvador is also expected to mitigate the tension between those chieftains already accustomed to imposition of candidates and younger elements canvassing democratic primaries. Many expect the old chieftains, who have returned to their shells, due to the protracted crises that have seized the party, to come out to guide the party. Also, membership drive is on his agenda.

    But, the greatest challenge before the new leadership is winning elections. Before the end of the year, the time-table for the local government elections may be released by the Lagos State Independent National Electoral Commission (LASIEC). In 2019, the party will also try its luck at the governorship poll. Since 1999, victory has always eluded the PDP at the governorship election. Except in 1999, the chapter has often gone for the elections as a divided platform, with personal ambitions being elevated over and above the collective interest. Ahead of every election, its gladiators are always at war. It was a common saying in the PDP that leaders were more interested in federal appointments than dislodging the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

    None of the party chairmen has led the chapter to victory. The party’s dream to occupy Alausa Secretariat, the seat of government, has become a tall order. In 17 years, Lagos PDP has produced seven chairmen. This underscores the leadership instability in the fold. The pioneer chairman, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, was shoved aside, shortly after the 1999 elections. He was succeeded by Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi, whose tenure was crisis-ridden. The party literarily broke into two, with the Ikorodu group, led by Basorun and another group, led by Senator Tony Adefuye, firing salvo at his leadership. Both Basorun and Adefuye are now in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Ashorobi was succeeded by the elder statesman, Chief Rasheed Williams, the Ajiroba of Lagos. The former Board of Trustees (BoT) member was prevailed upon by former President Olusegun Obasanjo to take up the assignment. He had a vision for reconciliation. But, the protracted logjam defiled solution. Williams relocated the secretariat from Opebi to GRA, Ikeja. He was abroad when he was edged out by some party leaders. Up came Adebayo Williams as the acting chairman. He later handed over to the former House of Representatives member from Badagry Constituency, Hon. Setonji Koshoedo. The Badagry politician was succeeded by Captain Tunji Shelle, who bowed out last month.

    Shelle has a beautiful story to tell. Under his leadership, the party was able to spring a surprise. It routed the more formidable All Progressives Congress (APC) in eight constituencies in last year’s elections. The PDP has eight lawmakers in the House of Assembly. They are representing Osodi/Isolo, Surulere, Ajeromi/Ifelodun, Ojo and Amuwo-Odofin constituencies. The party also has six members of the House of Representatives. Shelle said the chapter will build on the achievement by making a point during the proposed local government elections.

    Salvador is not a founding member of the PDP. He was a leader of the now weakened Alliance for Democracy (AD) before defecting to the PDP, ahead of the 2003 elections. As a member of the House of Representatives, he was popular in the circles of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, and progressive bloc. Many were taken aback when he took called it quits with the AD. Other defectors included Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, Hon. Obafemi Davies, Hon. Onimole, and Hon. Tugbobo. Some of them alleged that they left because the AD was embroiled in crisis.

    Since he changed camp, Salvador has remained consistent and loyal to the PDP. Although he aspired to the Senate, the ambition crumbled. Also, his bid for the deputy governorship hit the rock. However, he was a delegate to the 2014 National Conference in Abuja.

    His first major task is setting the rift between the party leader, George, and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro. Both have followers who are fanatically loyal to them. There was gulf between the two leaders in last year’s election. George had thrown his weight behind Mr. Jimi Agbaje, who former President Goodluck Jonathan also preferred for the slot. The primary was chaotic. Obanikoro could not scheme his way through. He headed for the court. Later, he was persuaded to withdraw the case in the interest of the party. In George’s view, Obanikoro is a master schemer with an inflated ego, adding that he is never mindful of his limitations. On the other hand, Obanikoro perceives George as a party leader who cannot mobilise for victory, unlike him who has bestrode the landscape as an elected council chairman, commissioner, senator and minister.

    During the recent state congress, the two camps were threatening a showdown. However, Obanikoro’s absence stemmed the tide of conflict. Salvador became a bridge builder. Although he was sponsored by George camp, he also has cordial relations with Obanikoro supporters from their AD days. He is seen as someone who could not rock the boat. Since his assumption of office, he has been promoting the cause of peace in the chapter.

    Acknowledging the gulf between the two leaders, Salvador said he will unite them and make them to work together for the party. “Their quarrel will become a thing of the past. Both of them are assets to the party,” he said.

    There are many eminent Lagosians in the PDP who can assist Salvador in the task of re-organising the party. Lagos PDP has experienced leaders. They include Dr. Bimbo Ogunkelu, a former Minister of Regional Integration, Dr. Obafemi Anibaba, former Communications minister, Gen. Tajudeen Olarewaju, also a former Communication Minister, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, former Works Minister, Pa Aderibigbe Shitta, Ajiroba Rasheed Williams, Mrs. Modupe Sasore, Chief Bode Oyedele, Semiu Kukoyi, Mrs Remi Adikwu-Bakare, Mrs. Onikepo Oshodi and Hon. Koshoedo.

    Since last year, the chapter has been left in the cold. There is no Federal Government to look up to. Although some PDP chieftains are still in the Buhari administration as members of boards and parastatals, the curtains will soon be drawn on their tenure. How to finance party activities may be a challenge. Ahead of last year’s polls, many chieftains defected to the APC, where they were integrated and given appointments. Therefore, there may be more defections by bread and butter politicians who may not be able to adjust to the status of the party as an opposition platform.

    In the past, PDP legislators also defected to the ruling party in the House of Assembly, citing the crisis rocking the party. Although the eight PDP legislators have reiterated their loyalty to the chapter, it may be difficult for some of them to resist overtures to defect to the ruling party.

    The membership drive by the Lagos PDP is at a low ebb. No conscious effort is being made to recruit more followers. Although the ethnic sentiment swayed Igbo votes to the party last year, sustaining the feat will require more efforts.

    As the party warms up for the council polls, there may be commotion at the primary. Many chieftains have sworn to prevent imposition of candidates. How to manage the process is a challenge to the Salvador leadership.

  • President to Nigerians: we’ll get to Promised Land

    President to Nigerians: we’ll get to Promised Land

    President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday reassured Nigerians that the nation will get to the Promised Land despite the obstacles and challenges.

    He spoke at the thanksgiving service for his daughter, Inebharapu, at the Anglican Church the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

    The President noted that the whole world is currently being challenged and that with the prayer of Nigerians, the country will overcome its challenges.

    He said: “I’m not here to make a political statement but only to thank you my brothers and sisters and to continue to pray for our great country. This is a period in which the whole world is being challenged, just like some of the passages we read. Whenever I think about all these happenings in Nigeria I remember the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land.

    “When God promised they were going to be given a land full of milk and honey, ordinarily one would have expected them to walk in and get the milk and honey. But they had to cross the Red Sea; that was a challenge; they had to meet people like Annas and others; that was a big challenge but because God wanted them to be there they were able to get there.

    “Surely, we’ll get to where we want to go as a nation. We may have the road bumps, we may have the obstacles but we will crush them and pass them. All what we request is your continued support and your prayers, and we promise we’ll continue to do our best.”

    Speaking on the thanksgiving, he said: “We were here before, and today we are here again because my son and my daughter were joined in holy matrimony yesterday by His Grace, who was the presiding priest and assisted by other men of God. It was a joyful occasion because marriage in Christendom takes a long journey.

    “We started this journey in the village where we had to fulfill the traditional obligation to show that a girl was properly given out to the man. Then yesterday we had the real marriage followed by the little reception.

    “All these processes went through successfully. Up to this time, I have not heard of any incident and I ask you to join me to pray as the people are going back home today, there should be no incident.”

    The Church’s Sub-Dean, Ven. Emmanuel Adekola, in his sermon entitled: “Times of stress and the second coming of Christ,” taken from II Timothy 3:1-5, noted that the perilous times are already here.

    Warning that Nigerians have turned away from all that is good, he said the word of God remained the standard for the judgment of all.

    According to him, the deviation from the scriptures and corruption of the word of God being currently witnessed has been in existence before now.

    He warned the congregation to be weary of fake prophets that will masquerade as messiahs in their day-to-day life.

    He said: “Many people will be perturbed with what is happening in the world and false prophets will set in because people are looking for answers. People masquerading as messiahs have come up. We must not be swept off our feet by speculative teachings.

    “Killing in the name of God is ongoing. But the word of Jesus is for us to hold on to our faith.

    “We are witnessing insurgency in the North. People are suffering for the sake of their faith. France had its share last week when some journalists, security agents and hostages were killed.

    “Darkness cannot overshadow light. Evil cannot prevail over good. The promise of Christ’s return will surely come to pass, no matter how long.”

    Adekola urged the congregation to live holy and godly life, saying that is what the nation needs at this time.

    The cleric also charged them to be watchful and be on guard as they anticipate His coming, which he described as the glorious hope of the church.

    The text for the service, taken from II Timothy 3:1-5 was read by the President’s wife, Dame Patience.

    Prayers were rendered for the President, the church and the nation.

    At the service were: Jonathan’s mother, Eunice; the new couple; Chief of Staff to the President, Gen. Jones Arogbofa (rtd.); the President’s Chief Physician, Dr. Fortune Fiberesima; the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, Mr. John Kennedy-Opara; government officials and presidential aides.