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Tag: succeeds

Mamora succeeds Boss Mustapha at NIWA

Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, a former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has taken charge as the substantive Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), following the appointment of Mr. Boss Mustapha as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, by President Muhammad Buhari, in October last year.

Mamora was received in office by the Acting MD, Danladi Ibrahim, the management and other staff members at the NIWA headquarters, Lokoja, Kogi State.

The new NIWA boss thanked President Muhammadu Buhari, just as he hailed the administration’s commitment to the revitalization of water transportation across the country.

He commended the members of staff of the authority for their untiring spirit, and urged them not to relent in their efforts.

He said, “I am profoundly humbled by God’s benevolence and President Muhammadu Buhari’s kind gesture for this great opportunity to come before the management and staff of the National Inland Waterways Authority on this occasion of handing over and assumption of office as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer.

“I thank the management of the authority for its effort and resilience over the past few years, that had witnessed frequent changes of leadership of the authority.

“Without any doubt, the absence of a substantive CEO would naturally pose great challenge, especially with respect to getting the needed attention from the Federal Government. Gratefully, this has come to an end now. My assumption of duty as the Managing Director/CEO of this authority is a demonstration of the present government’s concern towards developing the inland waterways Infrastructure for the purpose of bringing back to the country a modern water transport mode that can complement the services if roads, railways and pipeline transportation of goods, products, raw materials and passenger services on the Nigeria waterways.

“I wish to enjoin all staff and management to re-dedicate their efforts, as we jointly propel the management of this authority

towards ensuring the enactment of the amended NIWA bill to an Act of the parliament, development of the human resource profile of the authority with additional expertise and well trained workforce to enhance its operational efficiency.”

He commended the efforts of the Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, the supervisory minister, for the achievements in the sector under him and former NIWA heads, including his immediate predecessor in office and current Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, whose brief tenure he highlighted as achieving much.

October 9, 2018
Who succeeds Gaidam in Yobe?

Ahead of 2019 general elections, stakeholders and politicians have returned to the drawing board in Yobe State. Correspondent Duke Joel examines the factors that shape the primary and governorship elections in the Northeast state.

The succession race is gathering momentum in Yobe State. The questions is: Who succeeds Gov Ibrahim Gaidam? Major political leaders and other stakeholders have been strategising on how to capture power in the Northeast State. The state wants a credible and competent politician to succeeed the governor. Also, Gaidam will not be insensitive to the nature, personality and tendency of his successor.

According to observers, the governor has raised the bar for whoever will be stepping into his shoes. Thus, his successor should possess the polical clout.

Having established a solid developmental foundation for the state, the people are of the opinion that Yobe State needs someone who will not fall short of what they have but, rise above the where the state is.

The governor at different public gatherings said those planning to succeed him with the intention of siphoning the resources of the state will not have a chance as long as he lives.

He said as a product of God’s divine work, that it is only God who gives power to whom He wishes. “But, I want to assure you that I will hand over Yobe State to a credible successor who would continue with the good work we have started, not drunkards and Indian hemp smokers that would lead our great party and people of Yobe State astray.”

The Nation gathered that the lobbying the espcially by close friends and political jobbers, has made the governor to tighten up. Gaidam wants to be sure of those who are on the same political page with him.

It was learnt that the lobby had increased the governor’s fear on succession, since it looks as if everybody is pretending, waiting to be anointed before they reveal their real personality, a close associate of the governor said.

Despite the lobby, the goveror is not in a hurry to endorse any of those who are sheming to take his job. Sources said even his closest political associates cannot really beat their chest on the person who will receive the governors blessings.

There are speculations that Gaidam may surprice the people by anointing Deputy Governor Abubakar Aliyu, who some stakeholders are equally pushing for the job.

Those pushing for Aliyu believe that his loyalty to the governor is unquestionable and that he will protect Gaidam’s interest. It is said he will consolidate on his boss, blue print.

An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, who want to remain unanimous, said the party will support the governor’s choice in 2019.

He said if the governor announces his deputy as his choice, the people will support him. He added that the choice of Aliyu will stabilise the transition programme in the state by carrying forward the good works of Gaidam.

But, other are not too comfotable with the arrangement, noting that it is undemocatic. They are of the opinion that other chieftains who are well endowed to steer the ship of state abound.

They wonder why Gaidem would handover to the brother of his former boss, the late Mamman Ali. They said the race should be thrown open and whoever wins during the primary is good to lead the state.

“Are they the only families in Yobe? Is it a game of relay race? How can the two families be exchanging leadership baton as if there are no other families qualified to occupy that position in the state?”, they queried.

The supporters of the deputy governor are saying that, if Gaidam decides to anoint him, it will be one big gesture, not just to the Ali family, but the entire Yobe South geo-political zone. They opined that it would make up for the zone, which period was truncated, following the demise of Ali.

Hon. Sidi Yakubu Karasuwa, two-time Director-General of Gaidam Campaign Organisation, a former Commissioner and member representing, Nguru, Yusufari,Karasuwa and Machina Constituency in the House of Representative had indicated interest to govern the state.

Those who have not opened up have recruited some people to campaign underground for them, sell their ambition and gaug their popularity on the social media.

Despite the intruges playing out, many want Gaidem play a major role. It has been observed that Yobe State had not collapsed notwitstanding the plague of insurgency. The state had been hit in the the last six year in the last tenure of the governor.

The governor made tremendous inroad in his efforts to raising the standard of living of the people through his extraordinary developmental programmes and policies.

His infrastructural revolution, healthcare delivery, education, roads, youth empowerment are the key sectors that have been effectively transformed in Yobe State put him in effective position to decide who succeeds him.

Gaidam has received commendations and awards of excellence from individuals and cooperate organisations for his good works and the prudent management of resources which has made the state stand out during the recession period in the country without owing workers salaries.

Sources said those waiting for Gaidam’s nod include Commissioner of Works, Lawan Shettima(Yobe East) Head of Service and Gaidam’s immediate past Chief of Staff, Salleh Abubakar(Yobe North), Speaker of Yobe State House of Assembly, Adamu Dala Dogo(Yobe North), Senate Leader Sen. Ahmed Lawan(Yobe North), a former Commissioner Mohammed Saleh (Yobe North), who defected from the PDP, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim, Minister of States Foreign Affairs(Yobe East), Mohammed Bomoi (Yobe South).

As the clock ticks to 2019, the people are eagerly awaiting to see how Gaidam will break his silence and make the all-important announcement. At the moment, political activities in the state are stifled largely due to the silence of the governor. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in complete disarray with no clear candidate, apart from its veteran governorship candidate Adamu Maina Waziri, who is likely to vye for the position in 2019.

November 20, 2017
2019: Who succeeds Ahmed?

Ahead of the 2019 governorship election in Kwara State, chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) have returned to the drawing board. Correspondent ADEKUNLE JIMOH examines the succession battle in the Confluence State.

The race for governor in Kwara State has begun. Ahead of the 2019 general elections, some politicians interested in taking a shot at the seat have started oiling their political machinery.

Kwara State politics is dominated by the late Dr Olusola Saraki’s political dynasty. So, whoever would emerge as the next governor is likely to enjoy the blessing of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, a scion of the Saraki dynasty. As at the last count, no fewer than 15 persons under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have indicated interest in the seat.

Some of followers and loyalists of the Senate President who are eyeing the governorship are holding political offices both at the state and national levels. Apparently, to prevent the ambition of the gladiators from heating up the polity, the APC has issued a stern warning to members to abide by the rules of the Saraki dynasty.

As a result, some of those nursing the ambition are going about it surreptitiously. Indications are that some of the aspirants considered to be serious contenders have floated what an impeccable source called “subtle pressure groups”.

Those interested in the number one seat include: the spokesperson of the APC at the national level, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Dr Ali Ahmad; former acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and now an APC stalwart, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje; the Special Adviser to the Senate President on Special Duties, Alhaji Mashood Mustapha; the senator representing Kwara North Senatorial District, Alhaji Mohammed Shaaba Lafiagi; and the member representing Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Razak Atunwa.

Others are a member representing Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr. Abubakar Amuda-Kannike; his counterparts for Edu/Moro/Patigi Constituency and Baruten/ Kaiama Constituency respectively, Alhaji Bahago Ahman Patigi and Zakari Mohammed; the Chief of Staff, Government House, Ilorin, Alhaji Yusuf Abdulwahab; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Alhaji Usman Bibire Ajape.

Some of the aspirants have started recruiting of youth groups and others to work clandestinely towards their goals. The youth have taken to social media platforms to market the candidacy of their principals. It was learnt that some of the aspirants, who may likely join the race immediately the whistle is blown, are afraid of impending backlash in the event that they unveil their plans ahead of time.

Social media platforms are already awash with names of Abdullahi, Ahmad and Mustapha as likely successors of Governor Ahmed when his second term of four years ends May 29, 2019. It was gathered that Mustapha is not making his ambition secret, as he has already started strategic moves to curry the favour of the powers that be in securing the governorship ticket of the APC.

His 2019 branded vehicles are already out in some parts of Ilorin metropolis. He was a member of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015 and served as Commissioner during the tenure of Dr. Bukola Saraki as governor of Kwara State.

For Abdullahi, some youth organisations were said to have started convening stakeholders’ fora both in Ilorin and Abuja, as a platform to commence subtle campaigns. Abdullahi served as Minister of Sports and Chairman, National Sports Commission in the cabinet of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

But, Ahmad is still keeping his ambition close to his chest. He was a member of the Seventh National Assembly, where he served as Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Justice. His four years in the Green Chamber gave birth to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, a bill he sponsored, with main objective of speedy trial of criminal cases.

The Speaker’s media aide,Shuaib Abdulkadir, has, however, dismissed the rumour that his principal is nursing governorship ambition in 2019. He said it is only the party hierarchy that would determine who takes what in the forthcoming general elections. He added that no decision had been taking on that yet.

Abdulkadir said: “As far as everybody is concerned in Kwara State, and as you rightly know, he (Ahmad) is the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, representing Ilorin South Constituency in the State House of Assembly. Yes, you might have been told some things about his ambition. I am not aware of that. But, I can tell you reliably that he is not nursing that ambition (governorship seat) yet, except probably what the party hierarchy in the state would decide, which everybody is not aware of. That is all I can tell you.”

The Speaker himself neither picked our correspondent’s telephone call, nor responded to text messages sent to him, inquiring about his 2019 governorship ambition.

A member representing Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency, Dr. Abubakar Amuda-Kannike, could not be reached for his comment on the matter.

But Baraje advised those nursing governorship ambitions in Kwara on the APC platform to tarry awhile. He urged such aspirants to exercise patience and allow the incumbent governor to concentrate on his job. He also said it was too early for anyone to campaign for governorship or any elective office, two years down the line.

Baraje pointed out that there is a rare political system in Kwara State, where the party’s hierarchy decides who takes what. He advised those reported to be nursing governorship ambition to allow the system work.

He said: “In Kwara State, Dr Bukola Saraki, the Senate President is still our leader. I respect him and still queue behind him and when the time comes, all of us shall sit down together and the system will bring out the best candidates for governorship and other elective offices that will be beneficial to the people of our state.

“For now, I think we should allow the sitting governor to continue the good work he is doing. The governor is doing his best to serve the people in accordance with the principles and policies of our great party, the APC.

“It is public knowledge that the governor has been going round the state inaugurating various projects as well as empowering the vulnerable members of the society. To those nursing governorship ambitions, I advise them to be patient and cooperate with the political leader of the state.”

Baraje said if the so-called governorship aspirants “have been part of the APC family in the state, then, they are not doing justice to the system and if they have not been part of us, then they should know that we have a system.”

The flag bearer of the Labour Party in the last general elections, Dr Mike Omotoso, is believed to be one of those aspiring for Governor Ahmed’s seat. But, he is eyeing to contest on the platform of another party this time around.

Omotoso, it was gathered, may contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He recently gave conditions for his participation the 2019 contest. Though he did not disclose the platform which he would use as a vehicle to contest, Omotoso said the readiness of the electorate would spur him to join the race.

Indications emerged that the pharmacist-turned-politician is tinkering with the idea defecting to the PDP to realise his ambition. Omotoso, popularly known as Omotosure, stated that the masses remain the determinant factor of the electoral processes.

The former LP flagbearer, who lost to the Governor Ahmed in the 2015 polls, said his decision to vie for the governorship was to improve the welfare of the electorate.

He said: “I would love to run, but the people must be ready. It is not about me wanting to be governor. I am not a career politician; it is about better life for the masses. At the right time, details will be unveiled by the people, if they actually want me to run.”

The PDP under which he is reportedly seeking to contest, has been polarised into two factions with Senators Ali Modu Sheriff and Ahmed Makarfi each laying claim to the soul of the party. Although the recent Appeal Court verdict recognised Modu Ali as the authentic National Chairman of the party, the National Caretaker Committee, chaired by Makarfi, has headed for Supreme Court to upturn the appellate court judgment.

July 3, 2017
Kwara 2019: Who succeeds Ahmed?

Two years to the next general elections, consultations are on in Kwara State. Politicians are scheming for the seat that will be vacated by Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed on May 29, next year. ADEKUNLE JIMOH examines the succession struggle and aspirants on the platforms of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Though next general elections are two years away, Kwara State is already abuzz with politics. Major political gladiators interested in the seat that would be vacated by Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed have started oiling their political machinery.

Kwara politics is still dominated by the Olusola Saraki dynasty. This perhaps, explains the large number of aspirants that have in one way or the other signaled their interest in the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC). So far, about 15 persons on the platform of the party are said to be interested in the seat.

A good number of them are associates of the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki; most of them are holding political offices both at the state and national levels. Some of the aspirants considered to be serious contenders have floated what an impeccable source called “subtle pressure groups”.

They include the spokesperson of the APC, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Dr Ali Ahmad; former acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and now APC stalwart, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje; the Special Adviser to the Senate President on Special Duties, Alhaji Mashood Mustapha; Senator Representing Kwara North Senatorial District, Alhaji Mohammed Shaaba Lafiagi; and member representing Asa/Ilorin West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Razak Atunwa.

Others are a member representing Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr Abubakar Amuda-Kannike; his counterpart for Edu/Moro/Patigi Constituency, Alhaji Bahago Ahman Patigi; Zakari Mohammed representing Baruten/Kaiama Constituency; the Chief of Staff, Government House, Ilorin, Alhaji Yusuf Abdulwahab and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Alhaji Usman Bibire Ajape.

The aspirants have begun clandestine recruitment of youths, who are already helping to market their candidacy in the social media.

A source told The Nation that some of the aspirants are keeping their ambition to their chest, owing to the peculiarity of Kwara politics. It was learnt that some of the aspirants who are bent on taking part in the contest are afraid of a possible backlash in the event that they unveil their plans ahead of time.

Some social media platforms are already touting Abdullahi, Ahmad and Mustapha as likely successors of the incumbent Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, when the latter’s second term of four years ends May 29, 2019.

Mustapha is not making his ambition secret as he has already started strategic moves to curry the favour of the power that be in securing the governorship ticket of the APC.

He was a member of the House of Representatives between 2011 and 2015 and served as Commissioner during the tenure of Saraki as governor.

For Abdullahi, some youth organisations were said to have started convening stakeholders’ fora both in Ilorin and Abuja as a platform to commence subtle campaigns for him. He served as Minister of Sports and Chairman, National Sports Commission in the cabinet of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

However, a source hinted that Ahmad is also interested in the race, but he has chosen to keep the ambition close to his chest. He was a member of the Seventh National Assembly, where he served as the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Justice.

His four years in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly gave birth to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, a bill he solely sponsored, with main objective of speedy trial of criminal cases.

The Speaker’s media aide, Shuaib Abdulkadir, dismissed media reports that his principal was nursing governorship ambition in 2019. He said it is only the party hierarchy that will determine who takes what in the forthcoming general elections, adding that no decision had been taken on that yet.

He said: “As far as everybody is concerned in Kwara State, and as you rightly know, he (Ali Ahmad) is the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, representing Ilorin South Constituency in the House of Assembly.

“Yes, you might have been told some things about his ambition. I am not aware of that for now. But I can tell you reliably that he is not eyeing the governorship seat, except probably what the hierarchy would decide, which everybody is not aware of for now. That is all I can tell you.”

Abdulkadir neither picked up telephone calls nor responded to the message sent to him inquiring about his 2019 governorship ambition.

A member representing Ilorin East/South Federal Constituency, Dr Abubakar Amuda-Kannike, could not be reached for his comment on the matter.

But, Baraje advised those nursing governorship ambitions within the APC to tary a while. He urged such persons to exercise patience and allow the incumbent governor to concentrate on the good job he is doing.

Baraje said it is too early for anyone to start campaigning for the next governorship or any elective office.

He pointed out that a rare political system where the party’s hierarchy decides who takes what exists in Kwara State. Baraje advised those reported to be nursing governorship ambitions to allow the system work.

He added: “In Kwara State, Dr Bukola Saraki, the Senate President, is still our leader. I respect him and still queue behind him and when the time comes, all of us shall sit down together and the system will bring out the best candidates for governorship and other elective offices that will be beneficial to the people of our state.

“For now, I think we should allow the sitting governor to continue the good work he is doing. The governor is doing his best to serve the people of the state in accordance with the principles and policies of our great party, the APC. It is public knowledge that the governor has been going round the state, flagging off various projects, as well as empowering the vulnerable members of the society.

“To those nursing governorship ambitions, I advise them to be patient and cooperate with the political leader of the state.”

Baraje said if the so-called governorship aspirants “have been part of the APC family in the state, then they are not doing justice to the system and if they have not been part of us, then they should know that we have a system.

The former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in the 2015 election, Dr Mike Omotoso, it was gathered, may still give the governorship seat a shot. But, this time around, he may be contesting on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Omotosho recently gave conditions to make himself available for the 2019 governorship race. Though he did not disclose the platform on which he intends to contest, he said the readiness of the electorate would spur him to join the race. Indications are that the pharmacist-turned-politician is tinkering with the idea of defecting to the crisis-ridden PDP to realise his ambition.

Popularly known as Omotosure, he said the masses remain the determinant factor of the electoral processes.

The former LP flag bearer who lost to Governor Ahmed in the 2015 polls said his decision to vie for governorship was to improve the welfare of the electorates.

He said: “I would love to run, but the people must be ready. It is not about me wanting to be governor; I am not a career politician. It is about better life for the masses. At the right time, details will be unveiled by the people, if they actually want me to run.”

The PDP is currently destabilised by factional crisis. The party is divided into two factions, with Senators Ali Modu Sheriff and Ahmed Makarfi who are laying claims to the soul of the party.

Although the recent Appeal Court verdict recognised Sheriff as the authentic National Chairman, the National Caretaker Committee chaired by Makarfi has gone to the Supreme Court to challenge the appellate court judgment.

May 12, 2017
Who succeeds Mimiko in Ondo?

Correspondent DAMISI OJO writes on the succession battle in the Ondo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the chances of the aspirants and the implications of the stiff competition for the party’s governorship ticket.

The major challenge confronting Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko is succession. It is critical to the survival of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Governorship aspirants are warming up for the shadow election in the ruling party. The question is: who will the governor anoint?

In the All Progressives Congress (APC), no fewer than 30 aspirants are fighting for the ticket. They cut across the three senatorial districts. Unlike the APC, only 10 aspirants are vying. None of the PDP aspirants has made an open declaration. But, they have intensified consultations with stakeholders.

According to PDP sources, the governor does not want the scramble for power to heat up the party that has already been decimated by defections to the APC. Thus, the aspirants are working underground as they await the time Mimiko will unfold his succession plan. “Governor Mimiko wants to retain the state for the PDP to prove a point. But, there are challenges. The perception is that men of clout like the governor are scarce in Ondo PDP. The governor wants a person who will not give him problem after leaving office. He will support one aspirant eventually and manage the crisis that may be triggered by his choice,” said a party chieftain.

The majority of the aspirants are members of Mimiko’s cabinet. They include the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Eyitayo Jegede, his Environment counterpart, Sola Ebiseni, former Presidential Adviser on Niger Delta Hon. Kingsley Kuku, Hon. Bakitta Bello and Hon. Saka Lawal. Others are Mr. Rotimi Jegede, Prince Nekan Olateru-Olagbegi, Mr. Bamiduro Dada and Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye.

Ebiseni:

He is a lawyer from Ilaje, Ondo South District. He came into limelight as the Chairman of Ilaje/Ese-Odo local government in 1991 on the platform of the defunct Social Democratic Party [SDP]. He is a grassroots politician. Ebiseni is popular across the state. He is acknowledged as a mobiliser. He also has a fine record of public service, having served as the Chairman of the Ondo State Law Review Commission in 2009 by Mimiko before he was appointed as a commissioner.

The Ilaje politician is a veteran governorship aspirant. He had contested for the top seat before. He has also aspired to the deputy governor in 2007 on the platform of the Democratic Peoples’ Alliance (DPA).

However, a source said Ebiseni may only rely on his loyalists to get the ticket because he may not be anointed by the governor.

Kuku:

He is the former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs and the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Kuku is an Ijaw from Ondo South. He came into reckoning when he was elected as a member of the House of Assembly from Ese-Odo Constituency. Many party chieftains believe that he has money to run a state-wide campaign. Kuku is a loyal chieftain. He is consistent. He has always supported the party financially. Age is also on his side. But, he is from a minority tribe.

Kuku is recuperating from a knee surgery abroad. But, critics said that he ran to the United States to evade arrest by anti-graft bodies, which want him to render accounts as a former presidential aide. His associates are working underground to convince stakeholders that he is a viable candidate. If he returns, he still have to clear his name with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) before going ahead with his ambition.

If Kuku gets the ticket, he will be the first non-Yoruba speaking candidate. He will have to do extra work by convincing the majority Yoruba that he will protect their interests.

Jegede:

He is a brilliant lawyer from Akure, the state capital. Jegede is not a politician, but a reliable technocrat. The Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) has deep interest in the race. He believes that he has been learning the ropes since 2009.

According to party chieftains, Jegede has a bright chance. He is trusted by the governor. The two of them are very close. The Akure Agenda was initiated because he is in the race. Since the agenda was unfolded, prominent Akure leaders have been calling for power shift. Since Ondo State was created, no governor has emerged from Akure. The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, has said that Akure will support any political party that picks its candidate from the state capital.

Akure Kingdom is a vast area, which include Ifedore, Akure South and Akure North. Its voting strength cannot be ignored. Akure votes have always decided who rules the state. However, the civil servants and other indigenes and residents who account for the voting strength are also indigenes of other districts outside Akure.

Jegede has a big hurdle before him. He is from the Central District like Mimiko. Can Ondo State people vote for another candidate from the Central? This is the question on the lips of party members.

Since 1999, the state has subscribed to an unwritten agreement on zoning or rotational principle. The late Chief Adebayo Adefarati from the North District served between 1999 and 2003. He handed over to the late Dr. Olusegun Agagu from the South. After six years, Agagu handed over to Mimiko from the Central. The consensus of opinion now is that power should shift to the North.

Adelola:

The Secretary to Government (SSG)is eyeing the seat. Adelola has been with Mimiko since 2009. He is closer to the governor’s younger brother, Prof. Femi Mimiko. Thus, the scholar is also rooting for him.

Olateru-Olagbegi:

The Owo prince is not a pushover. He is the Coordinator of the Private/Public Partnership (PPP). He has a structure. In 2007, he was the Labour Party (LP) senatorial candidate for the North District. he was defeated by Dr. Bode Olajumoke of the PDP. In 2011, he also vied for the Senate. But, he stepped down for Senator Ajayi Boroffice. He is loyal to the governor.

A party source said that he has not been adequately rewarded for his loyalty. Although he was nominated for an appointment under the Jonathan administration in 2011, he was dropped for Dr. Pius Osunyikanmi.

Dada:

The pharmacist is the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. He is from Ikun-Akoko, Akoko South-West local government. There are some odds his ambition. He is from the same local government with Senator Boroffice and Hon. Victor Olabimtan, who are aspiring to rule the state on the platform of the APC.

Also, Akoko South-West is one of the strongholds of the APC. Thus, observers believe that it would be difficult for Dada to politically disarm the APC gladiators from Ikun-Akoko.

Elegbeleye:

He is the former Director-General of the Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC).

He served as the Chairman of Akoko North-East Local Government Council between 1997 and 1998. He was also a member of the Ondo

State Primary Education Board (SPEB). In 2003, he became the Chairman of the Ondo State Waste Management Authority,a position he held until 2006. In 2007, Elegbeleye became a member of the House of Representatives from Akoko-North/East/West Constituency.

However, Elegbeleye, an indigene of Ikare-Akoko, may not get the blessing of Mimiko for the ticket. He is a grassroots politician. But, he is a member of the old PDP faction.

Bakitta:

He is the former Speaker of the House of Assembly and A former Speaker and Chairman of Teaching Service Commission.

Bello:

Bello, an indigene of Oke-Agbe, is a grassroots politician.

He defeated from the PDP to the LP as a member of the House of Assembly.

February 29, 2016
Who succeeds Mohammed?

All Progressives Congress (APC) National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Lai Mohammed will bow out of office this week, following his appointment as minister by President Muhammadu Buhari. Four chieftains-Timi Frank, Joe Igbokwe, Sola Lawal and Rotimi Fasakin-are in the race to succeed him. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU writes on the contest for the party office.

Four chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are jostling for the position of the National Publicity Secretary. The aspirants are Mr. Sola Lawal, the Publicity Secretary of the Ogun State chapter, his Lagos State counterpart, Comrade Joe Igbokwe, Mr. Rotimi Fasakin and Mr. Timi Frank.

The Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, is expected to resign from the position this week, following his appointment as a minister.

Lawal has served as Publicity Secretary in Ogun State for six years. Also, Igbokwe has served as Publicity Secretary since 2007. However, the rights activist, who has not declared his bid, is being persuaded by his colleagues across the federation. Fasakin was Gen. Mohammadu Buhari’s spokesman when he was the presidential candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Fank is Mohammed’s deputy at the party secretariat.

Mohammed’s legacies:

From the independence, opposition spokesmen have always endowed their parties’ publicity office with visibility. In the First Republic, AG Publicity Secretaries were intellectuals and ideologues; the witty Ajibola Ige and Banji Akintoye, who were thorns in the flesh of Balewa and Akintola governments. In the Second Republic, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN)’s spokesman was the brilliant analyst, MCK Ajuluchukwu, the Director of Research and Publicity, whose efforts were complemented by the gifted orator, Ebenezer Babatope. The out-going APC National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed, has built on their records. Politicians across the divide, he is perceived as a vital asset in this age of modern propaganda.

For 15 years, the Igbaja, Kwara State-born lawyer has served as the shadow minister of information. Circumstances foisted the patriotic duty on him. Mohammed has combined the incisive wit and boldness of Bola Ige, the intellectual sagacity of Akintoye and ideological strength of Ajuluchukwu, in the discharge of his onerous responsibility as the opposition spokesman and image builder. The mega publicity mandat has brought him into collision with top government officials and security personnel during the previous dispensation.

Hailing him, Buhari said: “I have come to the conclusion that he is more than a spokesman for his party, more than a quiet and loyal brain box of the ACN and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, but the loudest and consistent voice in the defense of democracy, liberty and social justice under this Fourth Republic.”

A PDP Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Babatope, described Mohammed as a lover of truth and justice. He said, although the PDP his party are foes, he could not shy away from acknowledging his competence as “one of the very best practitioners of the political party system in Nigeria today.” He added: “I am a fan of Lai Mohammed. His writings, his press releases and political utterances designed to explain the positions of his political party are so brilliantly and intellectually presented that one cannot but love his person and the style of his presentations.”

Mohammed was drafted into publicity work by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. The former lagos State governor had asked him to be the facilitator of a meeting of leading politicians in the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the PDP. The effort led to the birth of the Movement for the Renewal of Democracy (ARD), and later, the Advanced Congress of Democrats (ACD), which later became the Action Congress (AC). Mohammed was appointed as the Chairman of its Media and Publicity Committee. When the AC transformed into the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), he got a vote of confidence to continue on the job. In Mohammed’s view, the assignment has not been not a tea party. “In speaking the truth to power in Nigeria, on many occasions, we have turned non-issues, which are critical for democracy, liberty and justice, into issues,” he added. When the APC became the ruling party on may 29, it was not difficult for Mohammed to adjust to his new role. Both as opposition and ruling party spokesman, he has performed creditably.

To succeed, his successor must mirror his style and embrace the duty with passion . The publicist succeeded because he had the pre-requisite academic, professional and political training. After his tertiary education at the University of Ilorin, where he studied French, he had a brief teaching experience in the institution in 1978 before accepting the appointment as a Publicity Officer at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), where he rose to the position of the Chief Publicity Officer. The quest for knowledge made him to study Law at the University of Lagos.

In legal practice and politics, his path crossed with Yomi Edu’s. In fact, as a chieftain of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), he was Edu’s Chief of Staff and Governorship Campaign Coordinator. When Tinubu signified his intention to contest for the governorship, he played the same role to the best of his ability. He later served as Governor Tinubu’s Chief of Staff at the Round House, Alausa, Ikeja. In 2003, Mohammed returned to his native Kwara State to contest for the governorship under the AD, but he was defeated by the PDP candidate, former Governor Bukola Saraki.

Mohammed achieved success as a Publicity Secretary because he cultivated the media. “The kind of publicity machine that we have built for the opposition party has been so strong that, even at the time that we controlled only Lagos State between 2003 and 2007, we loomed larger and were stronger in the public discourse that the all-powerful Federal Government and the ruling party. This was partly because, though we were a minority party, we paraded the best in terms of experience, intellect and skill,” he said.

Journalists have enjoyed professional relationship with him because he has respect for the profession and the practitioners. He has always treated them as equal stakeholders. Paying tribute to the media, he said that journalists are not “cash and carry” practitioners, but men and women worthy of respect and recognition for their contributions to the society.

Lawal

Lawal was born on the April 5, 1963 at Ile – Ife, Osun State. He attended Ansaru-Ud-Deen Primary school, Ile – Ife where he obtained his Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1976. He also attended Erin Community Grammar School, Erin-Ijesha, Osun State, where he obtained his West African School Certificate in 1981. He obtained the Teachers’ Grade II Certificate at Methodist Teachers College, Sagamu in 1983. He proceeded to the ObafemiAwolowo University, (OAU), Ile-Ife, where he got his first degree in English in 1990. He is now a post-graduate student of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos, Akoka.

Lawal worked as a reporter/staff writer for Hotline News Magazine, Kaduna from 1990 to 1992. He was the Associate Editor between 1992 and 1993. He was the Chief Correspondent, Concord Press of Nigeria in 1993. Later, he became the Sub-Editor/ Reporter, Post Express Newspaper from 1996 to 1999. He is the Chief Executive Officer, Globe Telly, which he founded in 2003.

Lawal is an activist. He was the founder of Yoruba for Change. He was the Assistant Youth Mobilization Officer for Iremo Ward, Oranmiyan Local Government, Ile Ife for the UPN from 1982 to 1983. He served as the Returning Officer, Gubernatorial Primaries, Alliance for Democracy (AD), Ogun State in 1998. He was the Mobilization Officer, Ogun East Senatorial District, AD between 1998 and 1999.

He became the Secretary, Afenifere National Publicity Committee between 2000 and 2006. While on the Afenifere National Publicity Committee, he also served as the Personal Assistant (Political) to Afenifere Leader Leader, the late Senator Abraham Adesanya between 1999 and 2008. He was a member of Afenifere National Caucus from 1997 to 2007. Between 1995 and1998, he was a member National Democratic Coalition.

Lawal was the Director of Campaign, Dipo Dina Movement, Ogun State, from 2004 to 2007. He was the Ogun State AC Publicity Secretary between 2006 and 2010. In 2010, Lawal became the Publicity Secretary, Ogun State ACN. He is currently the Ogun State APC Publicity Secretary.

Lawal was detained without at the Jos Prison in January 1994 by the Abacha regime. He was also detained at the Central Police Station, Wuse, Abuja in May 1996. In December, 2006, Lawal was detained at the Lion Building Police Station, Lagos. In the same month, he also detained at the Ogun State Police Headquarters, Eleweran , Abeokuta. It was during the famous trial for theft of government vouchers of the AC governorship candidate, late OtunbaDipo Dina. Lawal was the Special Adviser on Media, Ogun State Government between 1999 and 2003. He was also the Consultant on Communication to the governor . He is the author of ‘The Leaders Tongue: A compendium of immortal words of Abraham Adesanya.’

He was a senatorial aspirant on the platform of the APC in Ife/Ijesa District, Osun State.

Lawal justified his bid for the post, saying that it requires professionalism. “Lawyers are usually appointed as commissioners and ministers of justice. Doctors and pharmacists serve better as ministers and commissioners for health. I believe that a seasoned journalist will bring his professionalism to bear on the job of the party’s publicity secretary.”

Igbokwe

A pro-democracy activist, Igbokwe made his name under the military as a freedom fighter. He was at the forefront of the battle for the revalidation of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Igbokwe was born on January 30, 1956 in Uruagu, Nnewi, Anambra State. He attended Uruagu Nnewi primary School from 1962 to 1971. He was the school’s football team captain. He attended Okongwu Memorial Grammar School, Nnewi, from 1974 to 1979. He was the head boy. He also made a Grade One.

Igbokwe attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he obtained his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1985. He is a policy analyst, commentator on national issues, leading voice in human rights movement, motivational speaker, community leader and President of First Grade International Limited, publisher of National Vision Newspapers.

Igbokwe is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN). He has attended leadership courses in lagos, Singapore, Dubai and South Africa.

He is the Lagos State AC, ACN, APC Publicity Secretary (since 2007), Chairman of Conference of APC State Publicity Secretaries, Coordinator, Igbo Vision in Lagos APC and patron of Igbo Conscience. He was General Manager, LASIMRA (2005-2015). He is currently Chairman, Wharf Landing Fees Collecting Authority, Lagos State.

Fasakin

He is a politician from Owo, Ondo State. He was the Buhari’s media aide in the defunct CPC; loyal and hardworking.

Frank

Frank is from Bayelsa State. He is the APC National Deputy Publicity Secretary. It is doubtful, if there is a harmonious working relations between him and the outgoing publicity secretary. On some occasions, the there were gaps between positions canvassed by Mohammed and Frank on behalf of the party. He has an independent mind. His admirers perceive him as a radical of sorts. But, he is popular in his constituency.

A party source said Frank may not succeed Mohammed. He added: “The position will be vacant by the end of the month. There is nothing on ground to show that the deputy publicity secretary, Timi Frank, will step into Lai Mohammed’s shoes. The party will look for a professional and an astute politician to do the job. Also, zoning may not favour the deputy publicity secretary.

November 9, 2015
Who succeeds Oshiomhole in Edo?

Ahead of next year’s governorship election in Edo State, aspirants have started to mobilise supporters and set up structures for the realisation of their dreams. Correspondent Osagie Otabor reports.

Who will succeed Governor Adams Oshiomhole in November, next year when his tenure expires? This is a one million dollar question Edo residents are battling to answer because of the unprecedented developmental strides of the governor. Many people have indicated interest in the race, but the big question is, who will the people trust with their votes?

Among those interested in the job are Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Oshiomhole’s deputy, Dr. Pius Odubu, former Minister of State for Works Chris Ogiemwonyi, Major-General Charles Airhiavbere, Mike Onolemenmen, Chief Solomon Edebiri, Kenneth Imasuangbon, Matthew Iduoriyikemwen and Christopher Iyare.

The aspirants are carrying out consultations and intense lobbying among leaders in the state and explaining why they are better replacement after Oshiomhole.

In June 2014, two-time governor of the defunct Bendel State, Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, began a lone search for a successor to Oshiomhole. Ogbemudia began his search during the party primaries for the recent general elections. He visited the Ijaw in Gelegele and some community leaders in the state to seek their support.

Ogbemudia told the Ijaw that he looked forward to the realisation of his dream that one of them (Ijaw) would become governor and urged them to work with other ethnic groups to achieve the goal.

He said: “We need to work together as a team. We need to keep our cooperation working. Expand and make friends and make sure you are part and parcel of the whole. There are many things we can do without fighting. We need God to give us somebody to take over from Oshiomhole in 2016.”

Ogbemudia told the elders of Evbuotubu and Ohovbe that Oshiomhole’s successor would emerge, following consultations with community leaders.

He said the time has come for the people to look for a good candidate, who would build on the legacies of Oshiomhole, instead of waiting till the eleventh hour.

Last month, the former governor announced that he would launch the Edo Mass Movement (EMM) on July 4, adding that the group will lead the search team.

Ogbemudia noted that the state has made tremendous strides in infrastructure, adding that Oshiomhole’s successor should not destroy his achievements.

He said: “We in Edo State, want to ensure that the state is developed and because of that I am going to proclaim Edo Mass Movement, irrespective of party affiliations, and we will support any political party that gives us indication that it wants Edo State to succeed.

“The launch of the movement entails the mobilisation of people across the three senatorial districts to sensitise them on the need to collaborate in the search for a credible candidate that believes in good governance so as not to destroy the progress made so far by the Oshiomhole administration.”

Ogbemudia, however, said the movement would not work for any political party, but for the people in their search for a credible successor.

Analysts, however, are of the view that the search for Oshiomhole’s successor by Ogbemudia would be a fruitless one. They argue that searching for a candidate without any political platform would be a hard sell to party leaders. Ogbemudia, observers said, lacks the goodwill to propel any candidate to electoral victory.

Ogbemudia, a former chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was a member of the defunct National Republican Party (NRC). The NRC fielded Lucky Igbinedion, who lost the governorship election to Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

When PDP was in power in Edo, Ogbemudia’s residence was a rallying point. His son, Eghosa, won an election as Chairman of Uhunmwode Local Government during the Igbinedion administration. One of his daughters was councillor in Ikpoba-Okha.

In the 2012 governorship election, Ogbemudia ‘supported’ the PDP, which lost in the 18 local governments. In the last general elections, two of his children contested under the PDP. A third contested under the APC. Only one, Uyi, got the PDP ticket to contest for the Oredo East Constituency in the House of Assembly, but she lost to the APC candidate, Chris Okaeben.

Besides Ogbemudia, the Edo Peoples Assembly (EPA), led by Dr. Don Pedro Obaseki, is also searching for a successor to Oshiomhole. The group said the next governor must also make life meaningful for Edo people.

The ideal candidate must have pedigree, proven record of service and sufficient understanding of the intricacies of governance.

Obaseki said the group would ensure that elected officials are alive to their responsibilities.

Obaseki said the EPA will educate the masses and the political class so that the killing of youths would stop because of the inordinate ambition of a few.

He said: “We will move to places and talk to people. We will take over our streets and ask our brothers to sink boreholes in their neighborhood”

“The card reader has made us to know that the political calculus has changed. People will not be able to go into a small building and thumbprint papers. It is either the card is reading or it is not.”

“The 2016 election is going to be a pivotal turning point for the Edo people. Nigeira has just witnessed a paradigm shift in electioneering in Nigeria. If it doesn’t affect the people of the state now, we might just miss the box.

“It is important that we must be able to take over the political space and agenda of the state. We must be able to make sure that we contribute directly to the emergence of someone who will protect the economic and socio-standing of the average Edo man.”

The APC has barred aspirants from setting up campaign structures and it has been silent on zoning to any senatorial district. The PDP has also not spoken on zoning, but indications are rife that both parties may field candidates from Edo South Senatorial District.

Indications that Ogbemudia’s choice may be rejected by some PDP leaders emerged last week when former Governor Lucky Igbinedion declared that the next governor would be a founding member of the PDP.

Former Senate Chief Whip Senator Roland Owie said he would join other well-meaning leaders of the PDP to scout for a credible candidate, who does not have any connection with the PDP failed government.

He said: “The 2016 governorship will not be based on political platform; it is going to be who that candidate is. For the PDP to be seen to have broken ranks with irresponsibility, we have to be sure that our candidate for 2016 will not have any relationship with previous failures of the PDP government in Edo”

“The truth is that the performance of the PDP government between 1999-2007 cannot be compared to the performance of the Oshiomhole government because we all have eyes and we can see. You can see achievements in roads, schools and many other spheres of life. The Ugoneki-Ehor Road, which passes through my community, was done in 1974 by the military administration; no body touched that road until Oshiomhole came. Today I can get to my village in 20 minutes from Benin.”

July 2, 2015
Who succeeds Mark in the Senate?

As the intrigues over the successor of Senate President David Mark at the Red Chamber deepens, Associate Editor, Sam Egburonu, reports that North-East has become better positioned for the plum job

Who will call the shots at the Red Chamber of the National Assembly after May 29, 2015? That is one of the major questions agitating the minds of political leaders in Nigeria today. Already, leaders of the various geo-political zones are holding unending meetings both amongst themselves and with the leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC) to market their candidates and to explain why the plum position should be zoned to them.

There is no argument or pontification that the in-coming Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will wear a new look leadership, courtesy of the triumphant entry of the All Progressive Congress (APC) against the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP).

For now, the APC has an overwhelming majority of 60 against PDP’s 49. This development has emphatically changed the political calculations in the upper legislative chamber.

In the out-going dispensation, the Senate President, Senator David Mark, from Benue State, North Central geo-political zone, held sway for eight uninterrupted years. He set an unprecedented, unblemished record of no scandal within these years. Mark rewrote the history of Nigeria Senate with quality leadership, transparency, honesty and accountability. He ended the era of “banana peels” which was the order of the day before his emergence in 2007. Senator Mark represents Benue South Senatorial zone on the platform of the PDP.

In the emerging u- turn, the APC, except the extra- ordinary or unimaginable happens, has taken firm control of the Senate just like in the House of Representatives where it controls 214 out of the 360 members.

Unarguably, the APC takes charge in the Senate while the hitherto ruling PDP takes the back seat. The issue now is where would the “King makers” in the APC zone the plum position of Senate Presidency to? Would it remain in the North-Central or move to the North-East zone?

Most informed analysts say the South-South and the South-East zones are technically out of the equation because the zones did not produce any senator in the last elections. The South-West zone also seems out of reckoning in the contest because the zone already has the Vice President -elect, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.

Taking this scenario into consideration, the North-Central zone is already parading the likes of former governor of Benue State and incumbent Minority Leader, Sen. George Akume and former Kwara State governor, Bukola Saraki for the exalted seat.

Akume is said to be favoured by some powerful elders within the APC while Saraki, according to insider sources enjoys the support of the relatively younger but also influential elements within today’s APC.

But Akume’s critics, especially amongst some serving Senators allege that Akume may have failed to deliver much as minority leader in the senate. They therefore argue that he cannot be entrusted with a higher responsibility now. A source at the National Assembly, who begged not to be named, however said there is still a problem in the whole calculation of narrowing the contest between Akume and Saraki because while Akume’s critics may not want him to occupy that seat now, it must not be forgotten that Saraki is yet to clear his cases with the EFCC.”

This reality has also thrown up speculations that the North-East may have emerged a stronger force in the quest to succeed Mark. It is on record that some influential leaders of the North-East zone are contending today that the Senate Presidency should be zoned to their zone because they have been neglected and marginalized in the political arrangement at least since 2007.

From the North-East zone, the likes of former governor of Gombe State, Danjuma Goje, Ali Ndume from Borno State and Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan from Yobe State have emerged as frontline candidates.

However, critics are quick to point out that strong candidates like Goje and Ndume may be challenged because of some alleged cases and allegations. Some of the cases and allegations include for example, allegation that Goje still has a case with the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) while Ndume has pending cases with security operatives over alleged complicity with the dreaded Islamic set, Boko-Haram.

For now, the third major contender, Senator Ahmad Lawam, seems to have no serious matter that may pose as a direct challenge against his quest to emerge the next Senate President. A source, an insider in the politics of the National Assembly, confirming this said, “Besides, Lawan parades robust academic credentials. He holds Master and Doctorate Degrees in Remote Sensing. His first degree is in Geography.

“Above all, should the ranking rules apply; it would be a done deal for Lawan. He is the highest ranking lawmaker among the contenders. He was in the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2003; 2003 to 2007 and moved to the Senate from 2007 to 2011 and 2011 to 2015. This is a testimony to the fact that Senator Lawan stands tall far above his competitors,” the source said.

Also commenting on the likely successor of Mark at the Red Chamber, Dr John Udo, a social commentator, said he is not surprised at the names currently bandied in the media. According to him, “While not dismissing other zones and candidates, I think the North-East may get it this time around. Also, amongst the names we have seen, Lawan, to me, seems advantaged here.” He added that the Yobe State senator “has also demonstrated high level of competence and integrity as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Accounts. I understand he enjoys the respect of his colleagues for his intelligence and robust debates. Of course, that is why he was rated best Senator 2011 by Baseline Global Ventures.”

If these testimonies are accepted by the leaders of APC, Lawan, who won the Yobe North Senatorial seat for APC, may just be the needed round peg in the round hole to wear the big shoe expected to be left behind by Senator Mark. The game is getting hotter by the day and Nigerians are eager to behold the third citizen.

April 12, 2015
2015: Who succeeds Aliyu?

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have returned to the drawing board in Niger State. Governorship aspirants on their platforms are also intensifying their consultations and mobilisation for the next poll. JIDE ORINTUNSIN writes on the succession battle in the Power State.

The race is gathering momentum. The aspirants are scheming for power. Stakeholders are also preparing to separate the wheat from the chaff. Who succeeds Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu next year?

For the two parties, the die is cast. The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not leaving anything to chance. Aliyu’s priority is to hand over to another PDP governor. But, the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) is not sleeping on guard. The party is growing in leaps and bounds. Therefore, pundits have predicted a tough battle in the acclaimed “Power State.”

The next governor will be the fifth chief executive. Historically, hectic partisan battles have always heralded the ascension of the governor. In 1979, Alhaji Awwal Ibrahim emerged as the first civilian governor. He is now the Emir of Suleja. In the Third Republic, the late Dr. Musa Inuwa assumed the reins. His emergence was a surprise to many observers. Inuwa, a medical doctor from Kamberi ethnic group, joined the race few days to the primaries. Yet, he won the ticket.

In 1999, Abdulkadir Kure, an engineer and retired civil servant, emerged on the scene. He was an unknown political figure. But, he was highly favoured by powerful and influential leaders of thought. He bowed out in 2007. Also, Aliyu never contested the PDP primaries. But, he became the PDP candidate and won the governorship poll.

According to analysts, if history is anything to go by, the race is unpredictable. There are notable politicians eyeing the seat. Many factors will shape the contest. The governor has a stake. Sources said that he is trying to raise a worthy successor, who will be acceptable to his party and other stakeholders. Also, there are some political leaders who may rub shoulders with the governor because they are also interested in sponsoring candidates. But the political dynamics of the state and the level of political consciousness among the people may have consigned the theory of the “last minute emergence of candidate” or a “dark horse” into the political dustbin of history.

In recent times, an unwritten zoning arrangement, which was introduced by the ruling party, has been exhumed. If it is implemented, the next PDP candidate will come from Niger North Senatorial District or Zone C. This explains why the zone has the highest number of aspirants. For now, only three contenders are from other zones. At the last count, no fewer than 13 aspirants from the two dominant parties itching to succeed Aliyu.

The PDP has been in control of the state since 1999. Therefore, it has the highest number of aspirants. 10 aspirants are jostling for the slot. However, more aspirants may still indicate interest, ahead of the primaries.

For now, the APC has three aspirants. But, sources said that one of the aspirants may have opted out. The aspirants is contesting the bye-election for the Niger East Senatorial seat, which became vacant, following the death of Senator Dahiru Awaisu Kuta last month.

The PDP primaries may be rancorous. This is because none of the aspirants is willing to step down. Many of them have also ruled out the consensus option. The aspirants include the deputy governor, Hon. Ahmed Musa Ibeto, Alhaji Mu’azu Bawa Rijau, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Alhaji Sheidu Abubakar, the Chairman of Wushishi Local Government, former Minister of Trade Mustapha Bello and Ibrahim Matane, a former Head of Service. Others are Alhaji Garba Mohammed Dukku, a federal servant, former military governor of Benue State Col. Aminu Kontagora, retired Deputy-Inspector General of Police Senator Nuhu Aliyu, a medical practitioner, Dr Mustapha,and Alhaji Darangi.

Aliyu has never hidden his preference. Sources said that he is grooming a member of his cabinet for the role. But, he has held the card close to his chest. Eyes are on Musa Ibeto and Mu’azu Bawa Rijau. To observers, the race may just be narrowed down to the two politicians, if the governor is the only politician who will anoint the candidate.

Apart from Ibeto and Rijau, who are the top contenders in the ruling party, the posters of Garba Dukku also adorn the streets. There is rivalry among these contenders as they try out do one another at any function. The rivalry is also worrisome to the governor. When Aliyu visited Gulu, Lapai Local Government Area for the commissioning of the Gulu General Hospital, he cautioned them, saying that politics should not be a do or die affair. Tension had risen at the ceremony when the supporters of the two politicians fought.

To many people, Ibeto has a towering credential. He has served as the deputy governor for seven and half years. He is also perceived as a faithful and loyal deputy. He is also a former member of the House of Representatives and a former Director of Protocol to former Governor Kure. He is believed to have the financial muscle. But, he has some hurdles to cross. Those who opposed his selection as Aliyu’s running mate are not backing his bid. The deputy governor has also been accused of not reaching out to those who matter in the state chapter of the PDP.

Rijau is a household name in Niger State. His father is a power broker. An economist, the former Chairman of the Board of internal Revenue has performed well as the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Development. He is very popular in the party. Besides, he is relying on the backing of his father’s political associates across the three districts.

Bello, a one-time Minister of Trade and 2003 governorship candidate of Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), is not a push over. A technocrat of high repute, Bello knows his onions. He is courageous. After his failed attempt 11 years ago, he has refused to desert the battle field. His financial muscle and political clout are assets. But, he has many people opposing him at home. A source said that his people have resolved to back an APC candidate during the election.

Another aspirant to watch is Dukku. He is seen as the “Abuja joker”. He is well connected. He has godfathers among top PDP big wigs. Dukku has campaign structures in the 25 local governments. This feat has not been matched by any aspirant.

Senator Aliyu’s ambition may not go beyond the party primaries. He lacks political structure and patronage required for the contest. His political popularity has declined, following his defeat by a relatively known lawyer and opposition candidate, Senator Ibrahim Musa, at the 2011 senatorial election.

Other aspirants- Abubakar, Kontagora and Darangi-are not slowing down. Also, Ahmed Matane, the former Commissioner for Agriculture, is waxing stronger. He is close to Aliyu. Many people believe that Matane is Aliyu’s undisclosed candidate. The Mashegu-born politician has a member of the kitchen cabinet since 2007. But, he lacks the financial strength.

In Niger State, the PDP cannot pretend as if there is no threat to its dominance. The APC is enlarging its coast. This is giving PDP leaders nuch concern. Unlike their PDP counterparts, APC contenders are maintaining a low profile. The two aspirants that are visible are Abubakar Sani Bello and Mohammed Sule. Sources said that the odds may favour the former because he is from the preferred zone. Umaru’s decision to opt out of the governorship race to participate in the senatorial by-election may be to Bello’s advantage.

Bello, fondly called Abu Lolo by admirers, is the son of the former military governor of old Kano, Colonel Sani Bello. He is former Commissioner for Trade and Investment. He has the backing of retired Generals. He is also the toast of the youths who are agitating for generational shift. He has campaign structures in all the wards.

Mohammed Sule, a green horn, is also trying his luck. The fate that befell Dr. Mustapha may also be his lot at the primaries. The duo are from Niger South District, which is favoured by zoning. But, Sule is perceived as the candidate of the future.

The succession race is open. Either of the parties can produce the next governor. But, it will not be a walk over for any party.

July 7, 2014
Katsina 2015: Who succeeds Shema?

As Nigerians await the full commencement of campaign for next year’s general elections, politicking in Katsina State is gradually heating up, with leading political stakeholders readying their arsenals in the battle for the government house.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has remained the ruling party in the state since the return of democracy in 1999 with the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua serving two terms as governor before handing over to Alhaji Ibrahim Shehu Shema in 2007.

The late Yar’adua was the second civilian governor of the state after Alhaji Sa’idu Barda, who was elected governor of Katsina on the platform of the National Republican Convention (NRC) in December 1991.

He defeated the late Umaru Musa Yar’adua, the then governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). But Barda’s tenure was abruptly brought to an end in November 1993 when the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, announced the sacking of all democratic structures.

The Nation gathered, in his search for a successor, Yar’adua had zeroed in on the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, then a PDP card carrying member.

The idea of picking the former Speaker was later dropped by the late president. Sources claim that Yar’adua allegedly dropped Masari because of fears that the former Speaker may either become uncontrollable or betray him.

Ensuing intrigues and permutations resulted in the choice of the former Katsina State deputy governor, Ambassador Audu Aminchi.

But while Yar’adua was busy preparing the ground for Aminchi, Shema on the other hand was also plotting on how to clinch the PDP governorship ticket through the then President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo.

He eventually got the ticket through the aid of some of his friends that were close to Obasanjo.

Shema, who also served as an Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice under Yar’adua’s regime, was elected governor of Katsina State on the PDP platform in 2007 and was re-elected for a second tenure in 2011.

In the North West state, the big question on the lips of many politicians within the ruling PDP and the major opposition party, APC is: who succeeds Shema in 2015?

Within the PDP, the seeming distrust among its leading stakeholders is giving the Presidency a serious concern. According to sources, this development, if not well handled, could affect the party’s chances in the 2015 governorship poll.

Not a few party leaders and elders, The Nation gathered, are opposed to the governor’s plan to singlehandedly anoint his successor.

It is believed in Katsina that Shema has no strong political structure on ground that can produce the next governor in the state. It is further alleged that the PDP in the state has three factions and that the two other factions do not enjoy the support of Shema.

The factions include the late Yar’adua faction and the one called the Abuja group. The belief is that though the governor belongs to the Abuja faction, his relationship with members of the group has gone sour.

According to them, the third group, which the governor is heading, is not capable of producing the next governor as it is largely dominated by businessmen and a few party leaders, thereby making it weak politically.

Watchers of political events also believe that the faction, barring any unforeseen development, cannot make serious any impact in the politics of Katsina come 2015.

Another factor, which observers say will disrupt the governor’s plans in picking a successor, is the unpleasant relationship that exists between the incumbent and many top brass politicians in the state.

A pointer to this, they noted, was the last appointment of the local governments’ caretaker committees in the state.

The governor, it is believed, has offended many elders during the appointment by sidelining their candidates. They argue that most of the affected elders have not forgiven Shema and that they are waiting for an opportunity to get back at the governor.

But despite the hurdles in picking his successor, Governor Shema has reportedly made some attempts in a bid to have his way when the chips are down.

An unconfirmed report earlier had it that he may have settled for Alhaji Musa Sada, the present Minister of Mines and Steel for the PDP governorship ticket.

But Sada was later dumped due to his alleged political romance with Vice President, Muhammad Namadi Sambo, with a source claiming that Shema has tentatively made a choice in the person of the present state Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Adamu Funtua.

While the governor has not made any statement in this regard, there are also feelers many other PDP members including Senator Ibrahim Idah and Engineer Nura Khaleel have allegedly indicated their interests for the seat.

The Nation further gathered that the way and manner the Commissioner is being fawned over by top government officials is a strong indication that he is Shema’s clear choice for the plum seat.

A recent statement credited to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Alhaji Ya’u Umar Gwajo-Gwajo, while addressing farmers in Mai’adua local government at a function for the sales of fertilizers, that Funtua is the PDP’s governorship candidate lends credence that Shema’s camp has made its final choice on who takes over from him in 2015.

This plot may, however be countered by some political groups and politicians within and outside the PDP, with the Abuja and Yar’adua factions of the party leading the opposition against the Shema/Funtua camp.

On the governor’s political future, analysts opined that the recent political development has already exposed the incumbent’s dilemma.

Shema’s name had initially come up for mention to replace the Vice President, Architect Mohammed Namadi Sambo, following an alleged plan by President Goodluck Jonathan to dump his deputy in the next presidential election.

Sambo’s deft politicking, particularly his alleged role in the defection of some top Northern politicians from the APC to the PDP, reportedly forced the president to stick with his deputy.

The development reportedly compelled Shema to lower his political ambition to the seat of Senator.

Recently, the governor was alleged to have informed some close aides his ambition to contest for Katsina Central senatorial district come 2015.

If he sticks to his plan, the governor will be slugging it out with Abubakar Sadiq Yar’adua, the serving senator for the zone.

Other governorship hopeful

Suleiman Dikko

He is the current the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and former Chairman of the state Basic Education Board.

A relative and associate of Governor Shema, his political inexperience, analysts argued, could work against him.

Abdulahi Tsauri

He is the only one among other the contenders who has come out openly to formally declare his interest in contesting for the governorship seat.

He hails from Dutsinma, the same council area with the incumbent governor, an issue that could work to his disadvantage.

Musa Adamu

A former lawmaker and currently the Commissioner for Agriculture, he is quite close to the governor and also popular among the youth in the state.

He hails from Funtua, a council area in the southern part of the State which is yet to produce a governor. This had led some PDP members from his zone to demand that the next governor comes from the area.

Abdullahi Garba

If the law of succession is to be followed, Garba, who is the deputy governor of the state, would be the next to fly the PDP flag for the gubernatorial seat.

A former Attorney-General and university lecturer, he is seen by many to be a major political figure from Funtua senatorial zone.

Musa Sada

He is the current Minister of Mines and Steel and former Works and Housing Commissioner in the state.

An Architect by profession, he reportedly played a key role in the construction of some of the infrastructure the state boasts of today.

His strength lies in his current position as minister and closeness to the President and the vice president.

Ibrahim Ida

Senator Ida is the former lawmaker representing Katsina Central in the upper legislative chamber of the National Assembly.

Ida has the support base, experience and influence to fly the party’s flag. He is, however, said to be considering the possibility of returning to the Senate.

Dikko Inde

Inde is the current Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).

He has the charisma and clout due to his association with major political bigwigs. His undoing may have to do with his political inexperience and lack of a support base.

Nura Khalil

Some years ago, Khalil contested against the late Yar’Adua for the governorship position on the platform of the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

Although he lost, he has nonetheless proved to be one person that could garner votes in an election due to his strong support base.

He was initially a member of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) before defecting to the PDP.

Of recent, he had accorded more time to his business, which made some of his supporters wonder whether he is still interested in the governorship seat.

In the APC, whose profile has been on an upward swing in the state, some members are reported to be interested in flying the party’s governorship ticket.

Aminu Bello Masari

He is the former Speaker of the House of Representatives and had contested for the same position on the platform of the defunct CPC, but lost to the incumbent governor.

Currently the Deputy National Secretary of the APC, he is acknowledged as a major contender for the number one position.

Masari undoubtedly has the clout and support base to his advantage, but the political strength of the ruling PDP in the state is a major issue he has to contend with.

Abdulaziz Yar’Adua

He is a younger brother to the late President Yar’Adua. The retired Army Colonel was the running mate to the flag bearer of a faction of the CPC in the last general elections, and had shown interest in contesting for the governorship seat in 2011, but was reportedly persuaded to step down.

The popularity of his late brother in the state is a factor that could greatly work to his advantage.

Usman Bugaje

The former university don and outspoken former member of the House of Representatives contested on about two occasions for the coveted seat, but lost to the ruling PDP candidate.

He is one candidate to beat when it comes to intellectual discourse.

Abu Ibrahim

The current Senator representing Funtua senatorial zone had in the past, unsuccessfully contested for the gubernatorial seat. He is one lawmaker that has contributed immensely to debates, and has both clout and experience.

His zone, which has produced only deputy governors, could give him the needed support if he eventually decides to contest for the seat. His popularity, however, seems to be limited to his zone.

Kanti Bello

The former Senator represented Daura senatorial zone at the National Assembly from 2003 to 2007.

He has crisscrossed several political parties from the ANPP, PDP, CPC and now the APC.

A vocal and charismatic person, he has the support base and clout to win the contest.

But as a plan B, he is said to be considering the possibility of vying for the senatorial seat in the event that his governorship ambition does not succeed.

Mustapha Inuwa

He was former Education Commissioner and Secretary to the State Government (SSG) during the late Yar’Adua’s tenure as governor.

Although he never showed interest in contesting for the seat in the past, several of his supporters had called on him to do so, and may do same as 2015 draws near.

His closeness to Masari and other APC stalwarts could give him an added advantage over other candidates.

May 11, 2014