The Nation Newspaper

Tag: second term

  • Why I endorsed Okowa for second term, by Ibori

    Why I endorsed Okowa for second term, by Ibori

    Former Delta State Governor James Ibori has endorsed Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for a second term. He said his re-election in 2019 will enable him to complete the eight-year tenure of Delta North senatorial district in the spirit of the zoning within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Ibori said one good turn deserves another.

    Ibori spoke at a rally organised to welcome him back to the country, after his release from jail in the United Kingdom where he was indicted for money laundering.

    He said Delta North had in time past supported Delta Central and Delta South to serve eight years tenure and that the principles of equity, justice and good conscience demands that the Urbobos of Delta Central must support Okowa and Delta North to complete their eight years, so as to enable Urhobo enjoy Delta North support in 2023.

    The former governor, who widely regarded as the godfather of Delta politics assured the people that the quality results of consolidated politics will be visible for all Deltans to see in 2019. He urged PDP members and supporters to rekindle their enthusiasm, hope and to ignore cheap blackmail and empty political propaganda embarked upon by “some mediocre politicians currently parading themselves as the new messiah of the people”.

    The event, which was organised by the Leader of the Delta Central PDP, Senator Ighoyota Amori, took place at the permanent site of the Western Delta University, Oghara, and was was well attended.

    Speakers at the occasion commended Ibori for his leadership role in Urhoboland and the state in general, adding that his travails in the United Kingdom is nothing but persecution. They added that his persecution, incarceration and long absence caused the Urhobos a big loss in the political equation of the country.

    Urhobo leaders who spoke include; former minister, Chief Grace Akpoguma, Chief Mike Adiotomre, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Monday Igbuya, Secretary to the State Government, Ovia Agas, Hon. Evelyn Oboro, Hon. Lovette Idisi, PDP Chairman, Kingsley Esiso, PDP Board of Trustees (BOT) member, Chief Judith Enamuotor, and Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo.

    Ibori thanked the PDP family, traditional rulers of Urhobo extraction and indeed the entire Urhobo nation, Deltans and Nigerians in general, for standing by him and above all for believing in him as their political leader since 1998.

  • ‘Why we’re supporting Obiano for second term’

    ‘Why we’re supporting Obiano for second term’

    Prince Innocent Ofordile is the President-General of Omambala Youth Forum. In this interview with NWANOSIKE ONU, he speaks on the preparations for the Anambra State governorship poll and the group’s support for Governor Willie Obiano.

    What is your assessment of Governor Obiano’s performance in office?

    Governor Obiano is  God-sent to Ndi-Anambra. Hence, the reason why he is living up to the expectation of Ndi-Anambra. It is a known fact in the public domain that his administration has recorded tremendous achievements in all sectors of governance, starting from security. It is said that when the righteous is on the throne, the people rejoices. Ndi-Anambra are truly rejoicing for the gift of Obiano to them at this point in time; a man whom his words are his bonds.  During the last 2013 election campaign, Obiano promised to harness the agricultural potential of our beloved state and he has done that within two years and 10 months in office. He pledged to complete all projects started by his predecessor and he did not renege on this promise. Awka as a capital city is now wearing the look of a befitting capital city of Anambra State, courtesy of Governor Obiano administration’s dividends of good governance. The Obiano administration has recorded what can best be described as a milestone achievement in our beloved state and he deserves commendation for such wonderful work  because it is said that “when you praise a human being for doing good, the praises will spur the person to do more.”

    What is your view on Governor Obiano’s security initiatives?

    Marvelous. Obiano started with security from the inception of his administration because he knew that security is the bedrock of sustainable development and that, without security, there will not be any meaningful development. Ndi-Anambra are currently enjoying the benefit of Governor Obiano’s security initiatives. In Nigeria as at today, Anambra is being referred to as the safest state in our country. So, Obiano has done well in the security sector. Ndi-Anambra has not had it so good like this before.

    What is your view on the decision of Tony Nwoye, Chike Obidigbo and Oseloka Obaze to contest the governorship election against Obiano?

    Their ambition is dead on arrival because the people of Anambra North are not in support of their inordinate and misguided ambition. They are spoilers and we, the Omambala youths, will not allow them to achieve their devilish plot of spoiling things for Obiano. They are nothing, but jokers.  These set of people you made mention of contested the 2013 governorship election against Obiano and Obiano trounced them. Chike Obidigbo and Oseloka Obaze lost to Obiano at the APGA primary. Tony Nwoye lost to Obiano at the election proper. Mark my words, they will loose again to Obiano. One good thing is that Governor Obiano’s achievement in Anambra State has endeared him to Ndi-Anambra and Ndi-Anambra will use this  election to appreciate his good works.  No sane Anambra  northerner will contest election against Obiano.

    The governorship election in Anambra is  gathering momentum. It was rumored that Soludo has joined the APC to contest the election and Soludo swiftly refuted the claim.  Ifeanyi Uba, Andy Ubah, Bath Nwibe, Chinwoke Mbadinuju, George Moghalu and many others have indicated interest to contest against Obiano. What do you have to say to this?

    Let me first of all commend Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo for swiftly refuting the rumour of his membership of the PC and governorship ambition. It shows that he is a man of honour that wants equity and fairness to be entrenched in Anambra political system. My promise to him is that this kind gesture to the people of Anambra north will definitely be reciprocated, what our people are saying is that Obiano deserve a 2nd term in office because the people of Anambra central senatorial zone enjoyed 2nd in office through Peter Obi. The reason why I will not support a fresh candidate from Anambra North is because the person will alter the yet to be entrenched zoning arrangement in our beloved state. The only way zoning will be entrenched in Anambra State political system is by allowing Obiano to complete his merited 2nd term in office and after that power will shift to Anambra South. Most of this people you reeled out their names as aspirants in the forthcoming 2017 governorship election participated in the 2013 race and Obiano defeated them. Be rest assured that he will achieve the same feat in this 2017 governorship election against them.

    What is your view on those attacking Obiano?

    In the meeting we just finished now, Omambala Youth Forum resolved to issue a stern warning to those beating the drums of war because of the forthcoming Governorship election in Anambra, in this regard, am using this medium to tell them to remove the hand of a monkey from a soup pot before it becomes the hand of a human being. Omambala Youth will not take it lightly with anybody that attacks Obiano. He is our father and we will not allow discredited politicians to pocket or disgrace him out of office. We are fully prepared for the forthcoming election and we will use our mobilization strength to return Obiano for a 2nd term in office. We are solidly behind Obiano.

    Election is usually marred with violence….

    The blame for the violence must be put at the door step of Abuja politicians. They go to the President and feed him with all sorts of lies on a bid to convince him to use Federal might to subvert the democratic will of the people and impose unpopular candidate on them. It happened in Bayelsa and Rivers State, but they met stiff resistance in those states. Ndi-Anambra will resist the use of Federal might to impose unpopular candidate on them. What we want is one man one vote and we will take every legitimate step for our votes to count. All this discredited politicians that defected to APC with the hope of using Federal might to rig the forthcoming Governorship election have Ndi-Anambra to contend with because we will not allow them to achieve their devilish plot.  Anambra witnessed unprecedented qualitative leadership under Obiano administration and Ndi-Anambra will use their vote to appreciate his good works in our state. What we want in Anambra is a peaceful, free and fair election, nobody will be allowed to compromise these three things.

  • Nigeria’s longest serving monarch endorses Ayade for second term

    Nigeria’s longest serving monarch, Uti J.D. Agba, the paramount ruler of Obudu, has endorsed Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade for a second term.

    The traditional ruler, who is the father of All Progressives Congress’ (APC’s) stalwart and former governorship aspirant, Goddy Jedy Agba, said the state’s Northern Senatorial District gave the position of governor to Ayade, whom he described as their son, with their whole heart.

    The monarch added that the district also supported former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, who were from the Southern and Central senatorial districts, for eight years each.

    “Ayade will also be governor for eight years,” he said.

    Agba spoke at an event in Obudu when he led sons and daughters of the town to pour libation and perform traditional rituals to cleanse the land and pray for Governor Ayade.

    He said: “There is a proverb in Bette (Obudu) language that the new generation should be better than the old one. We pray for our son, who is the governor. We have given him the governorship with all our hearts. He will be on that seat, just as we supported others from Southern Senatorial District and Central Senatorial District.

    “Wine is what God gave to our ancestors to drink. We pour it on them and pray that in the morning, afternoon and evening, we should stand together and ensure that all of us enjoy the benefits of having a governor from our land. When we are through with the governorship, we will take a shot at the presidency.”

    The monarch is reputed to be the country’s longest serving king, having been on the throne for about 57 years, dating back to his days as a member of the Eastern House of Chiefs during the First Republic.

  • Obasanjo: I didn’t advise Buhari against second term

    Obasanjo: I didn’t advise Buhari against second term

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said President Muhammadu Buhari can seek re-election in 2019 as his constitutional right.

    Obasanjo added that it is up to Nigerians to vote for him or not, and denied an online publication claiming he (Obasanjo) had, through his ex-Chief Press Secretary, Alex Nwokedi, warned Buhari against re – contesting in future.

    The ex-President, who spoke to reporters in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, yesterday, through his media aide, Mr Kehinde Akinyemi, said he had not spoken with Nwokedi in the last three years.

    He described the on-line report published on September 3 as “false” and those behind it as “destructive” and “enemies of democracy.”

    “My belief is that democracy allows anybody, including President Buhari for that matter, to contest any election, and it is the prerogative rights of Nigerians to vote or not to vote for him.

    “I have not communicated with Alex in the last three years, so how a story could be credited to me, when I did not authorised such or communicated with him in the last three years?

    “Nobody has the right, not even me, to advise my children not to seek elective post. It is part of the freedom of democracy.

    “I condemn in the most highest manner the story and those behind it. And for those behind it, they are simply enemies of democracy and freedom of expression,” he stated.

    Obasanjo said he is still committed to the peace and progress of the country’s democratic development, which he promises will bring relief, with patience and understanding of the masses.

  • Dickson vows to improve security, agric as he takes second term oath

    Dickson vows to improve security, agric as he takes second term oath

    At about 1pm, yesterday, the Valentine’s Day, Bayelsa State Governor. Seriake Dickson took the Oath of allegiance and the Oath of Office to begin his second term.

    Dickson said his new term would focus on economic diversification, rural electrification scheme, massive investment in power to drive industrialization, youth empowerment and investment in agriculture.

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience, who recently attended a thanksgiving ceremony organised in Port Harcourt by Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike, were absent at Dickson’s swearing-in and thanksgiving service.

    But governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), members of the National Assembly, the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), the party’s Board of Trustee (BoT) members, traditional rulers and many stalwarts of the party witnessed the event at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, Yenagoa.

    Some of the PDP governors in attendance were Ayodele Fayose (Ekiti), Nyesom Wike (Rivers), Emmanuel Udom (Akwa Ibom), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Dairus Ishaku (Taraba) and Dankwambo Ibrahim (Gombe).

    The 2015 PDP governorship candidate in Lagos State, Mr. Jimi Agbaje; Senate Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio and his counterpart in the House of Representatives, Mr. Leo Ogori and a host of other dignitaries attended.

    Chief Judge Justice Kate Abiri administered the oaths on the governor and his deputy John Jonah

    Speaking after the traditional parade by the Police, Dickson said his victory was a testimony that the Ijaw nation had never been conquered.

    “My victorious people of the Ijaw Nation who like our fathers before us have shown that this great and proud land of good and great people can never be conquered.

    “The electoral contest for the governorship of our state will undoubtedly go into the annals of Nigerian political history as a reference point both for study and inspiration on how a people can rise to defend their democratic rights and dignity against forces of desperation and oppression”, he said.

    He said having roundly defeated the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Timipre Sylva, it would be foolhardy for some persons to think they could upturn his victory through the back door at the court.

    He said: “This should send a clear message to those who think that a man who lost in seven out of eight LGAs in full glare of the world can somehow snatch victory through the back door by hoping to manipulate the judicial process just because his party controls the central government.

    “The recent posture and pronouncements of the highest court of the land gives us confidence that such antics and schemes would not succeed.

    “Politicians who seek authority to govern people in our democracy must derive power from the people’s vote freely expressed through the supremacy of the ballot box and not through subterfuge, intimidation, blackmail or manipulation. That is subversion of the constitution itself”.

    The governor said he would not play politics with the security of lives and properties and vowed to consolidate on his administration’s gains on security.

    He said his administration would work with the Federal Government to tackle kidnappers, cultists and other criminals who vandalised national economic assets.

    He said the terms of the partnership should hing on the principles that no government officials should use their position to encourage or facilitate crimes.

    “Similarly, security officials at federal or state levels should not be intimidated from executing their statutory functions for fear of retribution. Nobody, regardless of political persuasion should be allowed to subvert national institutions or undermine the security and stability of the State or the Nation.

    “Our experience in Bayelsa State in the recent past has shown a tendency to misconstrue membership of the political party at the center as cover and license to kill, maim and destroy while security officials look on helplessly. Let us not allow partisanship to slide our country into anarchy. The consequences will be too grave”, he said.

    He called on opposition party members to sheathe their swords and join hands with him to move the state forward.

     

  • Second term doesn’t excite me, says Ayade

    Second term doesn’t excite me, says Ayade

    •Governor canvasses socialism

    Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade yesterday urged governors to focus on their first terms, instead of nursing second term ambitions when they have not fulfilled their promises to the people.

    He said: “Second term is not my excitement. My excitement is to serve now. I don’t have desperation for second term.”

    The governor called for the re-evaluation of politics, saying primitive acquisition should not displace service delivery.

    He said: ‘’If to make money is the reason you are in office, you have failed. If it is to serve, you are in the right path.”

    Senator Ayade, a professor of Evaluative Science, who spoke with reporters in Lagos, decried the evil of capitalism, urging those in power to cultivate socialist orientation to safeguard public welfare.

    The governor urged stakeholders to take a critical look at the presidential system, which he described as too expensive and time-consuming.

    He explained that the system usually permitted the commitment of politicians to the inordinate hunt for power, instead of delivering good governance.

    Ayade said: “We should take a look at the presidential system which we copied from abroad. In the first year, the governor is struggling to step down in office. The second year, he has just started working. The third year, he is preparing for elections.”

    The governor said his assets were his character and credibility, adding that these virtues would not be sacrificed on the altar of politics.

    Hailing his predecessor, Senator Liyel Imoke, for leaving behind a secured and buoyant state, he said his priority was to continue where Imoke stopped by fighting the infrastructure battle and creating opportunities for youths.

    Ayade said his administration responded to the challenge of the cash crunch by reducing the cost of governance, adding that he exhibited an example of sacrifice and self-denial.

    He added: “Government must cut down cost. Others are suggesting downsizing. We need to cut allowances. But, downsizing is not the right thing to do. I have increased the number of ministries from 13 to 28. If we downsize, the survivalist instinct of the people will predispose them to criminality and there will be social tension. Government is being expanded to increase productivity, but the number of political appointees must be reduced.”

     

  • ‘Wada doesn’t deserve second term’

    ‘Wada doesn’t deserve second term’

    The Forum of Former Chairmen of Local Governments in Kogi State has said Governor Idris Wada of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has failed to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

    It said he should be voted out of office on November 21.

    Rising from a meeting in Lokoja attended by 23 members, the forum endorsed the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Abubakar Audu and his running mate, Mr. James Faleke.

    The ex-council chairmen lamented the quality of governance under Wada.

    A communiqué by Matthew Keyi (Kogi Central), Collins Adama (Kogi East) and Ganiyu Salaudeen (Kogi West), on behalf of the 22 former council bosses, said: “The living condition of our people in Kogi State, especially in the rural areas, has deteriorated with attendant security challenges under Governor Idris Wada’s watch.”

    The statement added: “The forum noted with dismay that the euphoria and optimism, which heralded the creation of Kogi State in 1991, have given way to a sorry state of despair and disenchantment because of the uninspiring performance of successive PDP administrations, especially the Captain Idris Wada-led government.

    “The forum noted that the councils have been rendered prostrate by the administration…’’

  • Ex-council bosses: Wada doesn’t deserve second term

    Ex-council bosses: Wada doesn’t deserve second term

    •Rally support for Audu 

    The Forum of Ex-Chairmen of Local Governments in Kogi State has said Governor Idris Wada of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has failed to deliver the dividends of democracy.

    The former council bosses said he should be voted out of office in the November 21 election.

    Rising from a meeting in Lokoja, attended by 23 members, the forum endorsed the All Progressives Congress’ (APC’s) candidate, Prince Abubakar Audu and his running mate, Mr. James Abiodun Faleke.

    The ex-chairmen lamented that the quality of governance under Wada had dropped.

    A communiqué by Mathew Keyi, (Kogi Central Senatorial District), Collins Adama, (Kogi East) and Ganiyu Salaudeen (Kogi West), on behalf of the 22 former local government chairmen, said: “The condition of our people, especially in the rural areas, has worsened under the Wada administration.”

    It reads: “The forum noted with dismay, the euphoria and optimism, which heralded the creation of Kogi State in 1991. It has since given way to a sorry state of despair and disenchantment because of the uninspiring performance of successive PDP administrations, most especially the Wada government.

    “The forum noted that the councils, which ought to be centres of growth and development, have been rendered ineffective by the Wada administration. The music of continuity being drummed into our ears by the courtier of political office holders and their allies is hollow and self-serving.

    “Continuity in governance should be based on credible performance, a virtue the Wada administration cannot lay claim to. It is obvious to Kogites that the Wada administration has poor performance record in the delivery of democratic dividends.

    “The forum affirms that what the people of Kogi require is a man who can take on the challenges of underdevelopment.

    The decision of the forum to support the APC candidates is based on the need to bring on board tested hands and competent administrators, who are committed to rescuing our people from political quagmire.

    “In furtherance of this resolution, the forum advises our members comprising former chairmen, ex-vice chairmen, councillors, supervisors, secretaries, special advisers and other former political office holders in the 21 local governments to join our ongoing house-to- house campaign for the emergence of Audu and Faleke as the governor and deputy governor.”

     

  • ‘Second term in Bayelsa must be based on performance’

    ‘Second term in Bayelsa must be based on performance’

    In 2007, Prince Ebitemi Amgbare contested for governor in Bayelsa State on the platform of  the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), but lost to Chief Timipre Sylva. He, went to court and got Sylva’s election annulled in a judgment that changed the electoral calendar of the state. He recently resigned his appointment in the administration of Governor Seriake Dickson. He spoke with MIKE ODIEGWU on his resignation and other issues.

    Recently, you resigned your appointment in the administration of Governor Seriake Dickson. Why did you leave?

    Let me go back to how it all started. Sometime, in March, during the fuel subsidy crisis, I saw that our people were suffering with regards to movement. There was serious transportation challenge in town, and I called the governor that I needed to speak with him on that. So when I saw him, I told him about the difficulties, and in the course of our discussion, I proffered some solutions, and I think he was impressed with the solutions I proffered. He now said, ‘Can you help us go to transport and help us reposition the company?’ and I said, ‘Why not?’ And precisely, July 2012, he announced me as the General Manager of Bayelsa Transport Company with immediate effect. And I resumed, came up with a lot of blueprints. But whether or not I was supported to carry out my blueprints is not a matter for today.

    The reason why I pulled out is that, there is another need. Remember, it was a need that made me to approach him, and because of that approach, I got a job. But today, I see a bigger need. The need I see today that is bigger, is that we must take full advantage of this opportunity we have to elect a governor via the ballot box. And, I can say for the very first time, you know how Bayelsa has been; how our elections have been in the past. Our elections have been more of endorsements. Materials, really, never got to the grassroots. Leaders would just agree, and endorse, and share votes: give 30% to one party and 70% to another party. That is why in 2007 when I contested, I challenged the misconduct of that election, and I was able to prove that it was not properly conducted.

    Don’t you think there will be a campaign against you that you could not run a simple transport company?

    I will wait for that time to come. But for now, I will dwell on why I left Bayelsa Transport Company. I want to dwell on that, because I know that nobody will raise what you are saying in the public domain. But if anybody dares to mention it, I will handle it at that point in time. But for now, the very reason why I left is because I see a need – the need is to make sure that our votes count in the December 5th governorship election in Bayelsa state.

    Historically, Bayelsa, as you pointed out, is known for selection, instead of election. Do you think this has affected the development of the state?

    Naturally, if you owe your emergence as governor to the people, you will never take them for granted; forever you will hold them in high esteem, because you know they brought you there. I’m in the system. I’ve been in this system since 2001, and I know the efforts we have made to pull this thing to the grassroots. As Chairman of PDP in Sagbama, 2001/2003, I came up with ‘Operation Deliver Your Wards’. I did that, because at that point, it was a central arrangement, you know, few leaders in the local government will just sit down and share the votes. Materials will not even go to the Ward headquarters. So I said no. Let materials get to the Ward headquarters. That’s why I came up with ‘Operation Deliver Your Wards’. Then in 2003 election, Alameseigha, the then governor adopted it as his policy for the election, that leadership at the ward level must be recognized. So, that has been our problem. So this time, my energy, my wealth of experience in election matters, I want to see how I can deploy that to bring about making the votes count.

    Do you think the governor has delivered on his promises?

    You see, the truth of the matter is, when it comes to campaigns, I’m sure everybody in Bayelsa state knows where we are today, where we were in 2012, when Dickson came on board. So, it’s not a matter to talk about. For now, my focus is how to make sure we mobilize Bayelsans, provide leadership, inspire them and make sure that on December 5th when we come out for governorship election, they come out. In fact, it’s a process. You know, we want to start the build-up for tomorrow, start preaching the gospel why we want to make sure that it’s a complete departure from the past. And, I, Ebitemi Amgbare, will be doing my people a lot of disservice if I tie myself in one corner, and don’t provide this leadership at this time.

    Which political party are you heading for? 

    I’ve already registered with the All Progressive Congress. You’ll recall that before I got this appointment, I was a member of the ACN. And I didn’t take part in the process of registration because I was busy serving my people as General Manager of Bayelsa Transport Company. But now that I have disengaged from that assignment; I did that yesterday- registered, I’m a member of the All Progressive Congress.

    Why did you go back to the APC?

    That’s where I belong. And, I have my sympathy for APC. I am a progressive minded person. I am completely different from this conservative kind of arrangement. Even though I was in that government, of course, you will know from my policies, my blueprints that  as the GM of Bayelsa Transport Company, I came up with the promoted idea of subsidy in the transport sector. The few places, even though I didn’t have a vehicle I was able to go into franchise arrangement with vehicle owners, and so, Amassoma, Yenagoa, because of the Niger-Delta University, I made sure that it was N100 or N150, even when the National Union of Road Transport Workers and other unions were charging N200. I believe that government must subsidize. Food is very expensive in Bayelsa state, and what is the reason? transportation. Movement from one point to another is very difficult. So those are the policies of a progressive-minded group, and that’s where I belong.

    There is an insinuation that Bayelsa State is not developed because no governor has been able to completely break the second term jinx. Why should the governor not complete his tenure?

    No. I hear people say that there is a second tenure jinx. There is no second tenure jinx.

    I came into Alameseigha’s administration. I was in that government for close to three years. That means Alameseigha spent almost three years in his administration second tenure, before he had his challenge, and his problem was not an internal problem, it was from outside. So,you see, there is no jinx. But to be candid, you must earn your second tenure. First tenure may be by chance. But second tenure is purely on merit. If you merit it, you’ll get it. But if you don’t merit it, the people will kick you out.

    Do you think Dickson merits a second tenure?

    I will leave that for the people to judge. My concern here, as I said is that the mandate must come from the ballot box. Dickson must get his second tenure via the ballot box. If the people think that he deserves the second tenure, they’ll give it to him. But, if they think that he does not deserve it, I’m sure they will kick him out.

    In 2007, you challenged the outcome of the governorship election as the candidate of the defunct ACN. You got a judgment that changed the political calendar of the state. Why did you go to that extent?

    It was not properly conducted. Even as the governorship candidate of my party, I did not see the ballot paper. They just sat in Government House and wrote results. And I was able to prove beyond reasonable doubt that materials did not get to units. The tribunal disagreed with us, but fortunately, the appeal court saw reasons why the election should not be allowed to stand.

    The 2007 judgement annulled the election of Governor Timipre Sylva. Now, Sylva is the leader of APC in Bayelsa state. Do you have a problem with that?

    No, I don’t have a problem with that. Even when we were in court, Sylva and I were quite close. We were talking, and I said to him that, my loyalty was for my party, and that the reason why we were in court was that my party felt the need to deepen democracy. And you can imagine if we did not prove all that; if we did not succeed in annulling the elections; if Oshomhole did not succeed in upturning the victory of Osunbo; if Rauf Aregbesola did not succeed in Osun; if Fayemi did not succeed in Ekiti; you know, in Ondo state election, if Mimiko did not succeed, we wouldn’t have had any reason to deny Morris Iwu a second tenure.

    But we were able to prove to the public, even to the international community, that look at the annulments; look at the number of elections this man conducted; look at the number of annulments that followed the elections, this man does not deserve a second tenure, and that was the saving grace. We kicked out campaigned against Morris Iwu. We came up and kicked out Morris Iwu and paved way for Attahiru Jega to come in. if Morris Iwu was the INEC chairman, we wouldn’t have come up with any reforms, and today, APC would not have occupied the centre stage.

     

    So we did serious work. That loyalty to the party is what Sylva is enjoying today. My loyalty to the party in 2007 is what he is enjoying today. He was on the other side, and you can see that there is no personal problem. Today, he took up that same fight against his kinsman. Why? It’s because of his loyalty to his party. You know, he’s in APC, Jonathan is in PDP. But when there was a reason for him to stand against Jonathan on a different platform, he was loyal to his platform.

     

    That’s the victory we have today. I have no problems with him, but I expect him also to open his arms to receive me, knowing fully well that I have been very committed to the broom; it’s the ‘broom’ we are talking about here. I brought the ‘broom’ to Bayelsa state. I made the ‘broom’ popular in Bayelsa state, and spread the revolution of the broom in Bayelsa state. So, I expect him to know our case is like one planted, one watered. So the one who planted should get his honour, and the one who watered should get his honour. I appreciate

     

    Does the APC have any chance to win the December 5 election?

     

    I think we have plenty of work to do. I’ve always maintained that we must do things differently. Even in the presidential election, what gave APC the edge from the beginning was that APC was able to organize a very transparent primary. From the onset. APC stole the sympathy of international community and even Nigerians. So I expect us to organize ourselves properly here. We shouldn’t take it for granted that we have the party at the centre, so it’s going to be a smooth sail. I know that APC will not use brute force: the kind of force we saw in Rivers state; the kind of force we saw in Akwa Ibom. I am sure APC will not unleash terror on Bayelsans. APC will expect, support, encourage us in Bayelsa to organize ourselves and produce a credible candidate that will fly the flag of the party and rally round the person and deliver the state.

     

    Do you see all these people coming into APC from PDP imbibing the unity you preach?

     

    During the formative stage of APC at the centre, they said APC is a party of strange bedfellows. But, because of the way the leaders were able to organize themselves, they were able to prove them wrong. It is up to us in Bayelsa state to rally round the agenda. The number one agenda is to win the state for the party. It’s a possibility. Like our president will say, bury your personal ambition, work for the party, and make sure the party wins.

     

    Do you still have governorship ambition?

     

    I’m working towards that. By the grace of God, I think I should enrich the list of the people that will contest for the ticket of the party.

    END.

     

  • PDP, APC and politics of second term in Bayelsa

    PDP, APC and politics of second term in Bayelsa

    Bayelsa State Governor is Seriake Dickson is fighting to get the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for a second term. Correspondent MIKE ODIEGWU examines the obstacles on his way.

    Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson is in the eye of the storm. His bid for a second term has become a tough battle between his camp and his foes, in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Dickson is fighting to remain in the Creek Haven, the Government House, next year.

     

    Thorny path to second term:

     The first obstacle against the governor’s re-election bid is the crack in the PDP. The crisis between Dickson and the former first lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has not been resolved. The former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, was a pillar of support for Dickson when he competed for the ticket with his predecessor, Timpreye Sylva.

    Mrs. Jonathan resigned her appointment as a Permanent Secretary in Bayelsa State. After her resignation, the friction led to the factionalisation of the PDP.

    Sources said that Mr. Weripamowei Dudafa, a former presidential aide, was being sponsored by Mrs. Jonathan. According to them, the former first lady was planning to use the Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN) as a platform to campaign against Dickson. The leader of the group, Hon.   Talford Ongolo, a former Speaker of the old Rivers State House of Assembly, who is the Chief of Staff, was shoved aside to pave the way for the former deputy governor, Werinipre Seibarugu, an associate of Mrs. Jonathan.

    The group has continued to wax stronger in Bayelsa. Its office on Isaac Boro Road, Yenegoa, is always alive with partisan activities.

     

    Crack in PDP

    The governor moved swiftly by whittling the influence of Mrs. Jonathan. He sacked members of the State Executive Council perceived to be loyal to the iron lady. Last year, Mr. Francis Egele, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice; Mr Ayakeme Massa, Trade, Investment and Industry Commissioner, and Dr Anapurere Michael Awoli, the Health Commissioner, were removed. Also dropped from the council were Mr. Nelson Belief (Tourism Development); Mr Gesiye Isowo (Special Duties (Federal Projects); Mr. Parkinson Macmanuel (Science, Technology and Manpower Development), Mr. Zuwa Konuga (Capital City Development), and Dr. Sylvanus Abila, (Environment).

    Other prominent politicians, including the Commissioner for Local Government, Mrs. Marie Ebikake, the Special Adviser on Federal Government Projects, Chief Remi Kuku, were sent packing. The aggrieved politicians may have resolved to team up with Mrs. Jonathan to work against Dickson’s re-election bid.

     

    Suspension and defection

    The PDP was further torn apart by the suspension of founding members. The Chairman, Col. Sam Inokoba, was suspended in controversial circumstances by the State Working Committee (SWC). The development worsened the bad blood between Dickson and Mrs. Jonathan. Inokoba, an associate of the former President, was accused of financial impropriety.

    However, the suspension is yet to be upheld by the National Working Committee (NWC) as stipulated in the PDP constitution. Therefore, ahead of the election, the PDP has two factional chairmen-Chief Serena Dokubo-Spiff and Inokoba. The Federal High Court was has restrained Inokoba from parading himself as the chairman. Yet, Dokubo-Spiff is yet to be recognised by the NWC.

    The governor has filled the leadership vacuum. He set up a committee chaired by his deputy to investigate the activities of erring chieftains during the last general elections. He also vowed to punish those indicted of anti-party activities. Consequently, nine chieftains were punished. Expelled from the party were Dudafa, Senator Nimi Barigha-Amange and former Acting Governor Nestor Binabo, former Deputy Governor Werinipre Seibarugu, Mr. Chamberlain Kren Ikidi, Mr. Osomkime Blankson, Mr. Emmanuel Okponipre, Mr. Ebikapade Dibiya and Joyce Fouyowei.

    Dokubo Spiff said the Executive Committee of the party has adopted the recommendations of the disciplinary committee in an unanimous voice vote.

    He, however, noted that some of the indicted members, who are in the National Assembly or holding appointments at the national level, would be referred to the national body of the PDP for further disciplinary measures in line with the provisions of the constitution.

    He said: “The State Working Committee met after receiving the report and deliberated on it and the State Executive Committee took a unanimous voice vote, based on the gravity of the offences and the attitudes of the affected members. Some were expelled, others suspended and a few others were reprimanded and exonerated.”

    Defending the disciplinary action, Dickson said that it would check indiscipline and disloyalty, which are inimical to the survival of the party. He said chieftains who sponsored candidates against the PDP in the state in the last elections were disloyal members.

    Dickson stressed: “You cannot have a situation where party leaders will sponsor candidates on the platform of other political parties to contest for political power and space against our party. And they do so with impunity, campaign openly while they are PDP members benefitting from the platform provided by our party. This can no longer be tolerated.

    “This is a PDP state, but our party’s strength will wane, if we do not maintain party discipline. We cannot tolerate a situation where a few people consider themselves above the party and do things with impunity without regard for the authority of the leadership of the party just because they are in one leadership position or the other which by the way were positions they got through the instrumentality of the PDP.”

    But, Inokoba fired back. He described the activities of the governor and the disciplinary committee as null and void, accusing Dickson of destroying the party. He said the crisis was engineered by the governor to send potential governorship aspirants out of the PDP and pave the way for him as the sole candidate.

    He said: “As the truly elected chairman of the PDP in the state, I am the only one that can summon any meeting of the executive committee or set up any disciplinary committee”.

     

    Failed reconciliation

    The defection of prominent chieftains is a setback for the PDP. The defectors-Senator Clever Ikisikpo, Mr. Nadu Karibo and Hon. Azibola Omekwe-dumped the PDP for the APC, citing the protracted crisis as the reason for leaving.

    Former President Jonathan’s move to reconcile the warring chieftains were belated. Many members have berated him for failing to stop his associates from leaving for the APC. They alleged that he refused to call them to order as they sowed the seed of discord. Although he called a meeting, many aggrieved chieftains shunned the parley. Sources said Mrs. Jonathan’s associates refused to attend the fence-mending meeting because of the presence of the Dickson and his supporters.

    For the PDP to retain power next year, party elders said the aggrieved members should rally round Jonathan and Dickson. Jonathan has endorsed the second term aspiration of the governor and party members to support him.

    The former President also set up a three-man committee headed by former Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha to reconcile the aggrieved groups and individuals. Other members are King A. J. Turner and Chief Thompson K. Okorotie.

     

    A house divided

    Despite the endorsement of Dickson for a second term by Dr. Jonathan, Dickson’s kinsmen, under the aegis of Ogbia Joint Initiative (ODJI), said rejected the endorsement. Then, a gale of defections followed. Dr. Jonathan’ friend, Chief Diekivie Ikiogha, defected to the APC.

    Ikiogha, a founding member of the PDP, Chief Victor Awala, Mr. Paul Ajuwa, Mrs. D. Irene, Mr. Prince Abeki, a former commissioner, and  over 150 former councillors led the ruling party.

    At a rally in Yenagoa, Ikiogha said he decided to quit the PDP because it is party of betrayal and deceit.

    He said:  “The PDP is full of betrayal and deceit. There is lack of internal democracy and it is a party where the highest bidder always has his ways.”

     

    Division among elders

    Dickson’s second term ambition has divided the party elders under the umbrella group, the Bayelsa Development Forum (BDF) headed by Chief Thompson Okorotie. Those opposed to the governor’s ambition have left the group. Following their exit, they held a meeting in Yenagoa to map out strategies. In attendance were former commissioners, special advisers and local council chairmen. Majority of them came from Dickson’s Bayelsa West Senatorial District. At the meeting, they formed a group, the Bayelsa Peoples Consultative Assembly (BPCA). Senator John Brambayefa from Sagabama, where Dickson hails from, was elected chairman of the group.

    Speakers flayed the Dickson administration, saying that it has made the state stagnant. They were unanimous in their clamour for change.

    Brambayefa disclosed that a 14-member committee has been set up to work out the modalities for their defection to the APC.

    Also, an elder statesman, Alex Ekiotimin, said decried what he described as the inhuman polices of the governor. He accused him of disregarding elders, adding that their decision to join the APC was in order.

    But, Dickson described the elders as greedy and hypocritical politicians.

    He said: “This is an opportunistic lobby group, desperately in search of power without any modicum of integrity. They should be reminded that contrary to their assertions, they actually constitute the problem of development in the state. Their selfish conception of politics and attitude in government are what had retarded development in the state since the era of the late statesman, Chief MelfordOkilo.

    “Bayelsans can never exchange the present peace and tranquility in the state and the unprecedented level of development for the chaos and unmitigated rent culture of the past”.

    Dickson said the aim of the group is to return the state to the era when state resources were shared among few people at the expense of development.

    He added: “Since 1999, these are the same people, who benefited in state and federal appointments, which came with huge influence and privileges, but what did they do with such power and influence?                                         “What has been their contribution to economic development and empowerment of Bayelsans? All they want is free access to money, which will enable them to live big at the expense of development.”

    Also, the PDP said the defection to the APC is insignificant, although it acknowledged that it was unfortunate and embarrassing.

    The party said the defectors were not grateful to the platform that offered them opportunities to rise to stardom.

    The Publicity Secretary, Mr. Osom Makbere, alleged that the defectors  have wrecked havoc on the platform before leaving for the APC.

    He said: “These fellows, who actually have no electoral value and whose fibre are also spent, are creating the impression that they are moving with supporters.”

    He said the defectors took undue advantage of the PDP’s defeat at the centre to reposition themselves as APC members, adding that they did so to curry favour and attract patronage from the APC leadership. He said it is shameful and disheartening that the defectors were the key men of the former President.

    Makbere added: “They ought to remain faithful to the party in this period of sober reflection as a way of demonstrating our appreciation and eternal gratitude to the party for providing the platform for us as a minority to produce the President.

    “But they are now busy jumping ships in passion for greener pastures. This clearly show them as people who are untrustworthy, disloyal, unfaithful and treacherous”, he said.

    He said the defectors sought to fly the flag of the party at the last general elections, but lost out by divine providence.

    He said: “It is repugnant that most of these persons are beneficiaries of the magnanimity of the Seriake Dickson Restoration Government which either appointed them to senior sensitive positions or awarded them contracts. These are the ones turning around to say that nothing is happening in the state.”

    Makbere said Dickson has recorded many achievements in the areas of good governance, rule of law, safety of life and property, education, rural electrification construction ad equipment of hospitals.

    He added: “We are not perturbed by these show of shame because the party ad the government enjoy massive support from within and outside the state. We use this opportunity to appeal to our teaming party supporters ad the general public to remain calm and collected and have unflinching confidence in the government and the party”, he said.

     

    Divided cabinet

    The State Executive Council is also divided over the governor’s ambition. Commissioners and special advisers are attending anti-Dickson’s meeting in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State capital, by the former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Timi Alaibe, who may run for the governor in the APC.

    A source said: “Timi Alaibe hosted a meeting in Port Harcourt. I have the names of Dickson’s aides who were in attendance. Even people in Government are in the opposition. The governor is aware of all the moves by some of his appointees to join forces with his detractors and move against him.”