Tag: PRP

  • Insecurity: PRP urges Fed Govt to integrate communities into security architecture

    Insecurity: PRP urges Fed Govt to integrate communities into security architecture

    The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has tasked the Federal Government to immediately mobilise, organise, empower and fully integrate local communities into the security architecture, insisting that grassroots human intelligence remains the most potent tool for tracking the movements, networks, and supply lines of terrorists and bandits across the country.

    The party also demanded an immediate end to all negotiations or engagements, formal or informal, between the Federal Government and any terror-linked individuals or groups, warning that such contacts dangerously undermine the authority of the state.

    In a statement on Tuesday by its National Chairman, Falalu Bello, the party said Nigeria’s worsening security crisis has reached a level where community-based intelligence and participation are no longer optional but central to restoring stability and regaining control of the country’s internal security space.

    “The communities possess vital human intelligence that the security agencies desperately need,” the PRP declared, warning that without a structured and empowered grassroots security framework, government forces will continue to operate at a disadvantage against increasingly sophisticated terror cells.

    The appeal formed part of the party’s broader reaction to what it described as Nigeria’s “rapid descent into chaos,” following a spate of coordinated attacks, mass abductions, and targeted killings across several states in recent days.

    On the call for an immediate end to all negotiations or engagements between the government and any terror-linked individuals or groups, the opposition party said the government must “take full responsibility” for all national security operations and stop actions that elevate non-state actors into “stakeholders” in the country’s security process. 

    It stressed that any private or unofficial negotiation only emboldens criminal elements and deepens Nigeria’s security crisis.

    The PRP listed the abduction of more than 315 students and teachers from St. Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State; the kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi; the killing of police personnel and vigilantes in Kwara and Bauchi; the murder of eight Civilian Joint Task Force members in Gwoza, Borno; and the killing of a policeman in Geidam, Yobe. 

    Four rice farmers were also murdered in Edu Local Government Area of Kwara State.

    It warned that the killing of senior security officers, including Brigadier General M. Uba, alongside the spread of terror infrastructure beyond Sambisa Forest, shows a dangerous erosion of state authority, saying “Nigeria is steadily losing control of its internal security architecture”.

    The PRP accused government officials of offering “empty assurances, superficial reforms, and political theatrics” while communities suffer violent attacks and displacement. 

    It described the situation as a “national emergency” marked by a collapse of intelligence coordination, operational capacity, and political will.

    While acknowledging the reported release of some abducted worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, the party said the deaths recorded in the attack and the trauma inflicted underscore the vulnerability of even religious sanctuaries. 

    “This is not governance; it is a catastrophic dereliction of duty,” it stated.

  • PRP pays tribute to Aminu Kano on 42nd memorial

    PRP pays tribute to Aminu Kano on 42nd memorial

    …calls for justice, democratic revival

    The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has paid glowing tribute to one of Nigeria’s most revered political figures, Mallam Aminu Kano, marking the 42nd anniversary of his passing with a renewed call for social justice, democratic accountability, and protection of the rights of the marginalized.

    In a press statement signed by the national chairman of the PRP, Falalu Bello, the party described Aminu Kano as a “remarkable leader, visionary, and advocate for the marginalised,” whose legacy continues to inspire movements for equality and people-centred governance across Nigeria.

    Born on August 9, 1920, Mallam Aminu Kano rose to national prominence as a fearless advocate for the “talakawa”—the masses—and a relentless critic of colonial domination and native aristocratic rule.

    A founding father of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and later the PRP, Aminu Kano was hailed in the tribute as “a beacon of hope” who “championed a revolutionary socialist agenda rooted in societal equality.”

    The PRP said his political activism and moral leadership laid the foundation for the struggle against autocratic structures and unjust political systems that excluded ordinary Nigerians from power.

    Quoting from the historic Sawaba Declaration co-authored by Aminu Kano, the statement read: “The talakawa must organise consciously and politically for the conquest of the powers of government… so that the machinery of government… may be converted from an instrument of oppression into an agent of emancipation.”

    The party called on current and aspiring leaders to take these words seriously and “prioritise the welfare of the people over personal ambition,” especially in the face of what it described as continued electoral injustices.

    Highlighting Aminu Kano’s commitment to inclusive governance, gender equality, and the dismantling of ethnically based political divisions, the PRP urged leaders across all levels of government to “embody his spirit of leadership—one that fosters dialogue, promotes inclusiveness, and galvanises the masses towards collective progress.”

    Read Also: Customs seizes undeclared $1.1m, SR135,000 at Aminu Kano Airport

    The statement did not shy away from contemporary concerns, as Falalu Bello decried what he termed “rigged elections” in recent local government polls across key northern states such as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa—strongholds of Aminu Kano’s legacy.

    He warned that failure to address these electoral infractions poses a serious threat to the survival of democracy in Nigeria.

    “As we mark this 42nd anniversary… let us celebrate his life not merely through remembrance but through action. Let us renew our dedication to his principles, ensuring that his vision for a just and egalitarian society remains alive”, the statement added.

    Aminu Kano, widely regarded as a moral compass of Nigerian politics, passed away in 1983, but his legacy endures in the form of grassroots activism, principled leadership, and a constant reminder that power belongs to the people.

  • PRP kicks off campaign

    PRP kicks off campaign

    The People’s Redemption Party (PRP) flagged off its campaign for the September 21 governorship election yesterday in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

    Its Chairman, Dr Greg Igbinomwanhia, urged the residents to rally support for the party. He emphasized PRP’s mission to bring good governance to the state.

    Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), are Mr Peter Okafor, National Vice Chairman (Southeast), and Elder Godwin Akpanedem, National Vice Chairman (South-south).

    National Chairman, Mallam Bello Falolu said that the presence of national officers at the event underscored the party’s commitment to the Edo governorship race. He said that their presence signalled strong support for the local campaign efforts.

    Falolu, who was represented by Elder Godwin Akpanedem, called on party members and supporters to actively participate in the ongoing permanent voters card collection and the election.

    He expressed confidence that the party’s candidate, Patience Ofure-Key could lead the state to a new era of prosperity. He said: “I urge you all to rally behind the party’s candidate to ensure victory for our great party.”

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    The event witnessed the official presentation of the PRP’s flag to Madam Patience Ofure-Key and her running mate, Abuomwande Ojo-Advice.

    The PRP flag bearer, Patience Ofure-Key expressed deep gratitude to the national body for the opportunity to represent the party. She stated that with the campaign now officially flagged off, the PRP was poised to challenge the status quo and deliver transformative leadership to Edo State.

    She outlined her three-point agenda of Integrated Human Capital Development, Economic Diversification beyond oil and gas, and Comprehensive Infrastructure Development. She promised to deliver her campaign promises, noting that Edo was in dire need of redemption.

    She, however, called on Edo people to vote wisely; stressing that there would be alleged consequences if the wrong candidate was elected.

    Ofure-Key promised that the PRP-led government would usher in a new era of prosperity, improved healthcare, better education, and industrialisation in Edo.

    Highpoint of the event was the Award of Excellence presented to Ofure-Key by the Association of Female Students of Edo State, led by its President, Alice Omoruyi.

  • PRP, APC to sue Kano electoral body over High cost of LG election forms

    PRP, APC to sue Kano electoral body over High cost of LG election forms

    The Kano State chapter of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has threatened to take legal action against the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) over what it describes as the “exorbitant” cost of nomination forms for the upcoming local government council elections.

    KANSIEC Chairman, Prof. Sani Malumfashi, announced that the nomination form for the chairmanship position would cost N10 million, while the form for a councillor would be priced at N5 million. He also promised to conduct free, transparent, and fair elections.

    However, Musa Maigari, the State Secretary of the PRP, condemned the high cost of the forms, arguing that such exorbitant fees would push candidates towards corruption if they were elected into office.

    “The high cost of these forms makes it clear that KANSIEC is working hand-in-hand with the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and has no intention of conducting credible elections,” Maigari said. “We are going to court. Why monetise everything? Is KANSIEC a money-making organization?”

    Maigari further expressed doubts about the commission’s ability to deliver a free and fair election, emphasizing that the candidates come from grassroots communities and should not be burdened with such heavy financial demands. “By setting the chairmanship form at N10 million and the councillor form at N5 million, KANSIEC is essentially encouraging bribery and corruption among those who eventually win,” he added.

    The PRP is not alone in its concerns. Several other political parties in Kano have objected to the high nomination fees set by the commission. Selina Zakari, the State Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), also criticized the costs, calling them “exploitative and undemocratic.” Zakari expressed doubts about KANSIEC’s ability to conduct credible elections, pointing out that many members of its management team, including its chairman, are known affiliates of the NNPP.

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    The APC has also announced its intention to take legal action against KANSIEC, challenging both the nomination fees and the appointment of individuals with clear ties to the NNPP as overseers of the election process.

    Zakari voiced particular frustration with Prof. Malumfashi’s response to their concerns, noting that when they raised objections to the high costs, Malumfashi allegedly stated that “the election is for the elite, not the common man.”

    The opposition parties believe the high nomination fees are part of a strategy to price out competitors, ensuring that only the ruling NNPP can participate in the election without purchasing forms, yet still be cleared to contest.

    The upcoming legal battles could further complicate preparations for the local government polls, raising questions about the fairness and credibility of the electoral process in Kano State.

  • PRP warns against relocation of foreign military bases to Nigeria

    PRP warns against relocation of foreign military bases to Nigeria

    …citing sovereignty, security, other risks

    The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has warned the federal governor against the potential dangers of allowing foreign military bases to be relocated to Nigeria from the Sahel region.

    In a press statement, the party highlighted seven key risks, including threats to national sovereignty, security concerns, economic implications, diplomatic tensions, shift in focus, influence on foreign policy, and environmental and social impacts.

    Some northern stakeholders have recently been apprehensive of alleged plots by the United States, France and other foreign interests, with a military presence in the Sahel region, to secure agreements with the Nigerian government, as well as some other West African countries, for new defence pacts, part of which is said to be the controversial military bases’ relocation plots.

    “The presence of foreign military bases on Nigerian soil may lead to a gradual erosion of our national sovereignty. We cannot compromise our ability to make independent decisions that prioritize the best interests of Nigeria and its citizens. Our nation’s sovereignty is not for sale, and we must protect it at all costs”, the PRP said in a statement issued by its Acting National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq.

    The party also warned of security concerns, citing the potential for unintended consequences and resentment among local communities, which could lead to increased insurgency and violence.

    “The relocation of military bases could inadvertently expose Nigeria to new security threats. These foreign troops may not fully understand the complex and dynamic nature of the security landscape in Nigeria, which could lead to unintended consequences. Moreover, their presence might provoke resentment among local communities, increasing the risk of insurgency and other forms of violence”, the statement said.

    PRP also highlighted the economic implications, including the strain on Nigeria’s limited resources and the risk of increased dependency on foreign aid.

    “The Nigerian government must consider the economic impact of hosting foreign military bases. The costs associated with accommodating these troops, maintaining infrastructure, and addressing potential security issues could strain our already limited resources. Furthermore, there is a risk of increased dependency on foreign aid and assistance, which may undermine our nation’s self-reliance and economic growth”, it further warned.

    Read Also: Open letter to Peoples Democratic Party

    The party also expressed concerns about the potential for diplomatic tensions, citing the risk of straining relations with other African countries, saying, “The relocation of American and French military bases to Nigeria could potentially strain our relations with other African countries. Such a move might be perceived as an act of aggression or a power play, leading to diplomatic tensions and regional instability.”

    Additionally, PRP warned of the potential shift in focus, citing the risk of diverting attention from addressing domestic security challenges to catering to the strategic interests of the base-owner countries.

    “The presence of foreign military bases could divert Nigeria’s attention from addressing its domestic security challenges to catering to the strategic interests of the base-owner countries. This might result in neglecting Nigeria’s internal security needs and weakening its defence capabilities”, it said.

    The party also highlighted the potential influence on foreign policy, citing the risk of altering Nigeria’s stance on regional and international issues to align with the interests of the base-owner countries.

    “The military presence of the US and France in Nigeria may influence the country’s foreign policy decisions, potentially altering its stance on regional and international issues to align with the interests of these countries”, PRP warned.

    Finally, PRP emphasised the potential environmental and social impacts, citing the risk of displacement, environmental degradation, and health hazards, saying, “The presence of foreign military bases could lead to potential environmental and social impacts as these installations often require large tracts of land for infrastructure development, which could lead to the displacement of local communities and the destruction of fragile ecosystems.

    “Additionally, the increased military activity may result in environmental degradation, pollution, and other hazards that could have long-term consequences for the health and well-being of Nigerians”, the party said.

    In conclusion, the PRP strongly advised the Nigerian government against entering into any agreements that would lead to the relocation of American and French military bases from the Sahel to Nigeria.

    “We believe that such a decision would pose significant risks to our national sovereignty, security, environment, and economy. Instead, we call for a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing the challenges faced in the Sahel region, one that prioritizes diplomacy, regional cooperation, and sustainable development”, the statement said.

  • PRP condemns northern governors, govt officials for extravagant overseas events

    PRP condemns northern governors, govt officials for extravagant overseas events

    The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has strongly condemned the recent attendance of some northern governors at a symposium on insecurity held in the United States of America, describing it as an “economic waste” and a showcase of a “lack of commitment and understanding” of the gravity of the situation.

    According to a statement issued on Sunday by its Ag. National publicity secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, the PRP said: “We find it appalling that these governors chose to discuss the pressing matter of insecurity in a foreign country, while the very people they govern continue to face the consequences of this issue daily.” 

    The PRP questioned the logic behind holding such a critical discussion outside the region, saying, “All the solutions are here in Nigeria if only they can summon the political will to tackle the problem. And if only they can summon the courage to stop milking the serious insecurity crisis for political and material ends.

    “Their absence from the region during such crucial discussions only highlights their disconnect from the ground realities and the plight of their constituents. It’s like they are detached from the everyday struggles of the people they are supposed to serve”, the statement said. 

    The PRP also criticised the governors for their alleged “shortsightedness,” saying, “Perhaps our governors will sit up if one of the luxurious government houses is invaded by bandits or overrun by desperate citizens who are on the receiving end of their excesses and incompetence, such as we have seen in Sri Lanka a few years ago.”

    Furthermore, the party slammed the recent workshop organized by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, along with state commissioners of finance and other government officials, held in the United Kingdom. 

    The PRP described the choice of location for this workshop, during a time when the nation’s economy is struggling, as “irresponsible” and “indicative of a lack of concern for the financial well-being of the country.”

    Comrade Ishaq said: “We are dismayed that our governors and government officials would prioritize extravagance over the welfare of their people. It’s unacceptable that they would choose to waste resources on foreign trips while our citizens suffer.”

    The PRP demanded that the northern governors and government officials “take immediate action to rectify their misplaced priorities and channel their efforts towards improving the lives of their citizens.” 

    The party urged the public to hold these leaders accountable for their decisions and to push for transparency and dedication in addressing the critical challenges faced by the nation.

    “We call upon these governors and government officials to prioritize addressing the issues within their jurisdictions and to demonstrate their commitment to the welfare of their people. They must focus on finding practical solutions to the problems faced by their constituents, rather than engaging in extravagant and seemingly resource-embezzling events abroad,” the statement said.

    The PRP’s condemnation comes as many Nigerians continue to express frustration with the government’s handling of insecurity and economic issues.

  • Ondo 2024: ZLP, YPP, PRP others to field candidates

    Ondo 2024: ZLP, YPP, PRP others to field candidates

    The Zenith Labour Party, Young Progressives, and Action Alliance have notified the Independent National Electoral Commission of their decision to field candidates for the November governorship election in Ondo State.

    Other political parties to contest the polls besides the ruling All Progressives Congress and the main opposition People’s Democratic Party are Accord Party, Action Alliance, African Action Congress, African Democratic Congress, ADC, African Democratic  Party, ADP and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party, Boot Party, Labour Party (LP) New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) National Rescue Movement, Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, Social Democratic Party, and Youth Party

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    Ondo Resident Electoral Commissioner, (REC) Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, said the political parties have notified the electoral body of their intention to conduct the party primary.

    Babalola who spoke at a meeting with representatives of political parties in Akure, said the meeting was an opportunity to engage with political parties on the upcoming party primaries.

    She said the political parties were responsible for ensuring the success and integrity of the processes leading to the polls.

    The Ondo INEC REC urged the parties to adhere strictly to their guidelines, rules, and regulations outlined in their constitutions as well as all electoral laws in the conduct of their primaries next month.

    Babalola advised the parties to entrench the principle of internal democracy in the conduct of their primaries to avoid tension, division, and pre-election cases.

  • Shehu Sani, PRP call for cancellation of elections in Kaduna

    The senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has called for the cancellation of elections in the state, particularly his zone.

    Sani is the candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in the senatorial election.

    Addressing reporters yesterday in Kaduna, the senator said the Saturday’s election was marred by irregularities, ranging from over-voting, ballot box stuffing, intimidation of voters and connivance with security agencies to rig in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Sani said he and his party had compiled cases of irregularities across the zone and written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), asking for the cancellation of the elections.

    The senator said though he had not got official results of the elections, he and his party were calling for the cancellation, irrespective of the outcome.

    Also, PRP House of Representatives candidate for Kaduna North, Kassim Balarabe Musa, who spoke on behalf of party, alleged that the presidential and National Assembly elections were marred by irregularities.

    At a separate media briefing in Kaduna, the PRP candidate called for cancellation of the elections across the state.

    He said the elections were allegedly marred by vote-buying, card readers malfunctioning, use of unknown persons’ permanent voter’s cards (PVCs) for voting, among others.

    Balarabe said he would take legal action against those involved in malpractices in the state, adding that he had the evidence against them.

  • Sen. Shehu Sani dumps APC, joins PRP

    Sen. Shehu Sani (Kaduna Central) on Tuesday joined People’s Redemption Party (PRP), three days after he left the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Sani made this known in a statement by his Special Adviser, Political and Ideology, Mr Suleiman Ahmed, in Abuja.

    He said that “It has become impossible for the senator to continue to co-habit with reactionaries and their perfidious and inimical style of politics.

    “Sen. Sani maintains the highest respect and honour for President Muhammadu Buhari. However, we prefer to live in a Cottage of Honour than a mansion of shame.

    “Sen. Shehu Sani has returned to the PRP. PRP represents our socialist revolutionary ideology.

    “Sen. Sani is now free from the toxicity and infamy APC existentially represents. We left the APC for the emperors and their lackeys.”

    Confirming the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview, the Kaduna State Chairman of the party, Dr Tom Maiyashi, said the lawmaker is now a member of the party.

    Maiyashi said the lawmaker had been duly registered and offered membership card of the party.

    He stressed that “Sen. Shehu Sani has registered with the party and his ward is Kaduna South.’’

    Sani on Sunday resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The lawmaker announced this in a letter addressed to the APC Chairman, Ward 6, Tudun Wada North, Kaduna State and obtained by NAN.

    The letter, dated Oct. 19, signed by the lawmaker and copied to the national chairman of the party, Mr Adams Oshiomhole, however, did not state which party he would defect to.

    The party’s appeal committee had affirmed Sen. Shehu Sani as candidate representing Kaduna Central after he was issued automatic ticket by the National Working Committee (NWC).

    However, his name was substituted with Mr Uba Sani, an aide to the Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-rufai.

    Uba Sani, Special Adviser to Elrufai on Political Matters, was declared winner of the primary election conducted in Kaduna on Oct. 6 for the Kaduna Central Senatorial ticket, by Chairman Primary Election Committee, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen.

    Sen. Shehu Sani, however, did not participate in the election because he had been offered automatic ticket by the national body of the party.

    Following the election, Sen. Sani, in a statement by his Special Assistant Media, Abdulsamad Amadi, said the process was ‘illegal’.

    The lawmaker had also been having running battle with Gov. El-rufai, on the latest development and his defection may not be unconnected to it.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had given political parties Oct. 18 as deadline for submission of candidates’ lists for the National Assembly and state houses of assembly elections.

  • Zoning’s unconstitutional, says PRP candidate

    Zoning’s unconstitutional, says PRP candidate

    The candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) the governorship election in Anambra State, Dr Stephen Mbah, says the idea of zoning adopted by most of the parties contesting the poll is unconstitutional.

    This, he added, led most of the political parties to pick their candidates from Anambra North senatorial zone, which is favoured to produce the next governor.

    Speaking with our correspondent in Awka, the State capital, Mbah said the idea is unconstitutional because it was not endorsed by the Anambra State House of Assembly. He described it as a winner-takes-all formula, which would not stand the test of time.

    Mbah said it was an arrangement by some group of people to favour certain persons in the race. He said the best approach was to have a rotational system endorsed by the state House of Assembly that would allow each zone to occupy the position for four years.

    Mbah said only governors that have done well in their first term should be allowed to vie for a second term.