PRESS RELEASE
With alert, terror threat looming, Atiku holds crucial meeting with officials of US States Department
With alert and terror threat looming, Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar on Friday held a crucial meeting with officials of the US States Department in Washington DC.
The meeting, which focused primarily on enhancing cooperation with the U.S. authorities on Nigeria’s security challenges, elections and democracy was led by Atiku and Assistant Secretary, States Department, Bureau of African Affairs, Molly Phee.
According to sources from the PDP presidential candidate’s side, “the meeting last night with officials of the States Department could not have come at a better time with the terrorist threat alert by the U.S. UK and Canada and the withdrawal of its non essential staff by the U.S Embassy in Nigeria.”
A press statement signed by Paul Ibe, Media Adviser to Atiku, on Saturday, said that, “the focus of discussions were on the critical need to seek collaborative solutions to our local issues on democracy and governance, our deteriorating security and the economy.
“Most importantly, the meeting secured commitments to support for free and fair elections in Nigeria, an announcement of a sanction policy before the elections to deter anti-democratic forces, and commitments for continued partnership with Nigeria in areas of security and development.”
Other officials of the States Department at the meeting included Karl Fickenscher, Acting Assistant Administrator, USAID; Scott Busby, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labour; Michael Heath Deputy Assistant Secretary Bureau of African Affairs; Brian Neubert; Director Office of West African Affairs; Skye Justice Deputy Director Office of West African Affairs; Toby Bradley
Deputy Assistant Secretary Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs; Christopher Landberg, Principal Deputy Coordinator, Bureau of Counterterrorism and Stanley Brown, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary,Bureau of Police-Military Affairs.
Those on the official delegation of the PDP presidential candidate include former Senate President and Special Envoy to the presidential candidate, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Sokoto State governor and Director-General of the PDP presidential campaign council, Right Honourable Aminu Tambuwal; former governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu.
Signed:
Paul Ibe
Media Adviser to Atiku Abubakar
Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, 1999-2007.
Abuja
29th October, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI TO SECURITY AGENCIES, ALL CITIZENS: BE ALERT, DON’T PANIC
President Muhammadu advises the nation’s security establishment and entire citizens to continue being vigilant and careful with security, saying it is important to avoid panic.
He urges citizens to remain calm. The recent changes in travel advice from the US and UK governments should not be a cause for panic.
Nigeria is no exception in having terror threats listed in foreign government’s travel advice to their citizens. UK and US travel advisories also state there is a high likelihood of terror attacks in many Western European nations. Indeed, the UK and US advice to their respective citizens for travel to one another’s countries contain the same warning. Unfortunately, terror is a reality the world over.
However, it does not mean an attack in Abuja is imminent. Since the July prison raid, security measures have been reinforced in and around the FCT. Heightened monitoring and interception of terrorist communications ensure potential threats are caught further upstream.
Attacks are being foiled. Security agents are proactively rooting out threats to keep citizens safe – much of their work unseen and necessarily confidential.
Nigerians’ safety remains the highest priority of government. Security services are working around the clock to keep harm at bay.
The President gives assurances that the government is on top of the security situation in country.
While noting, in addition that security threats are real and have been with us for a long while, the nation’s military, the police and other security agencies have shown a capability to deal with it, as is evident from the fact that a majority of our partners, including the United Nations agencies in our midst have not seen the threat as being sufficient to warrant any form of panic or order citizen evacuations.
The President stresses that that while being security conscious, being alert and careful is crucial, it is also important that responsible members of the society do not create situations leading to unnecessary panic.
President Buhari commends the military and other security agencies for the recent turn around in the nation’s security, and directs that additional precautionary measures be put in place and that these must not slacken now, and during the upcoming festive period.
President Buhari expresses optimism that given the on-going efforts on the part of the military and other security and intelligence agencies with the active support of the civilian population, the nation will emerge victorious against the current challenges facing it.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 28, 2022
FESTUS KEYAMO AND HIS ERRATIC VITUPERATION
By Dele Momodu
I have just read Festus Keyamo’s response to my critique of the APC Manifesto of lies. I’m not surprised that all he could do was yell as usual without examining or practically addressing the content of my article. Unfortunately, he picked on a wrong customer.
Let me take a few minutes to educate this young friend of mine who has since become a shadow of his old self since he was offered an appointment, that makes him look so incompetent, by President Muhammadu Buhari. Any self-respecting soul would have since resigned but Festus Keyamo was not at home the day shame came visiting. The Ministry in which he’s a mere figurehead is in total shambles and only a Bola Tinubu would have given the job of a spokesperson to such a certified nuisance.
What did Festus say I did wrong? He quoted copiously from an article I wrote about two years ago, which the Tinubu media teams have been using to campaign endlessly, because they have no stronger voice of their own. I’m indeed flattered.
There is no doubt that I love Tinubu the Man but I disagree vehemently with Tinubu the Politician. This is not the first time I will say it publicly. Since I now have the opportunity of presenting the bones of my disagreement with Tinubu, courtesy of Festus Keyamo, I will lay them bare.
Tinubu has declined in the last few years. I used to see him as a man of his people but no supposed generalissimo would ever abandon his people in the days of trouble and tribulation. None of the people around him could tell him the truth for pecuniary reasons. He knows it himself but he desperately wants to be President of Nigeria, by fire by force, after he has lost most of his formidable foot soldiers, and now relying on outsiders to activate and actualize his lifelong ambition for him, which is his legitimate right. But Nigerians have the right to scrutinise his action plans.
When he was Governor, I supported him from the distance while he surrounded himself with some people who pretended to love him. When he was busy distributing land to journalists in Lagos, I refused to collect my papers because I love my freedom, the reason I was able to tell him truth regularly.
When he was to be impeached for some infractions, and many of his so-called loyalists were washing off their hands clean, like the Biblical Pontius Pilate, my very dear friend, Tokunbo Afikuyomi, stood by him like the Rock of Gibraltar. But how did he repay Tokunbo who took all the bullets? This shameless Festus Keyamo was one of those who wanted to run Tinubu out of town. Nduka Obaigbena and I had to step in at some point before he could consider Tokunbo for anything. Tokunbo had wanted to be the Governor of Lagos State and Tinubu goaded him on and allowed him to waste his resources. It was when I got Chief Harry Akande to give Tokunbo the ANPP Governorship ticket for Lagos State that Tinubu suddenly realised he had offended his “suicide bomber!”
During his battle to stop Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki from becoming the Senate President, we all saw how the younger politician outsmarted him. I had warned him to leave the gentleman alone because no one should play God, but he went ahead until the gentleman floored him effortlessly. During his egoistic battle against Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, I wrote an article asking him not to try it because their marriage was consummated in heaven. Somehow, he backtracked. In spite of him, Fashola continues to remain relevant in Nigerian politics.
Again, when he continued his tradition of “hire-and-fire” and started plotting against Governor Akinwumi Ambode, I buried my love for Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to speak up against the injustice of removing a great technocrat who was doing well in Lagos. The President of Nigeria, the Vice President, the Governors’ Forum and many distinguished Nigerians begged him to no avail. He must have his way always. The same personalities are now the people he needs and wants to make him President. Nigeria is looking for a President, with compassion and competence, not an Emperor!
Tinubu is a man who loves to bait the Masquerade with a goat but will never release the rope. That’s why he kept losing his best friends like Musiliu Obanikoro, Ambode, Muiz Banire, Opeyemi Bamidele, Rauf Aregbesola, Fuad Oki, Yemi Osinbajo, Adenrele Adeniran-Ogunsanya Babafemi Ojudu, Rahman Owokoniran, Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, Aminu Tambuwal, Yakubu Dogara, Nasir El Rufai, Babachir Lawal, Rotimi Akeredolu, Kayode Fayemi, Aro Lambo, Adeseye Ogunlewe, Jimi Agbaje, Ibikunle Amosun, Femi Pedro, Gbenga Daniel, Kofo Akerele Bucknor. Remi Adikwu Bakare, Tunji Abayomi, Tokunbo Ajasin, Mulikat Akande. Chief Dapo Sarumi, Adeniran Ogunsanya Amos Akingba, Bolaji Akinyemi, Mojisola Akinfenwa,
John Oyegun, Godwin Obaseki, Yinka Odumakin, Papa Ayo Adebanjo, Papa Abraham Adesanya, Dupe Adelaja, Toyin Fagbayi, Papa Olanihun Ajayi, Babafemi Ojudu, Prince Dipo Eludoyin, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who seems to be aloof to Tinubu’s campaign, and so many others, even if some of them have since reconciled due to political expediency. Tinubu personally decimated the pan-Yoruba group, Afenifere, after enjoying their massive support when we came back from exile in 1998.
For me, his biggest sin is the fact that he went funereally quiet when APC became a totally hopeless case, just because he’s hoping to inherit Buhari’s structures.
Lastly, I hope he would have the energy to make himself available for a rigorous scrutiny of his Manifesto. He wants to renew what actually? He wants to turn Nigeria into another Lagos? Many of those who love him genuinely know that the demystification process has started. They wished he had not subjected himself to this agony and anguish. But they can only say so in hushed whispers. Nigerians deserve better. I have been actively involved in politics. I hope Keyamo does not delude himself that I cannot make my own choices. I certainly have, and done so openly boldly. Atiku Abubakar is my choice. He is not a pretender to the throne. He has pursued his dreams with grace, good comportment, self-discipline and uncommon equanimity.
Festus and his gang keep quoting a 2019 article that I wrote. They should go and frame my other writings too. As for that political neophyte called Keyamo, he still has a lot to learn while trying hard to be a lap-dog. He should be reminded that he is still a Minister of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, paid at tax-payer’s expense. He should learn to moderate his undue exuberance.
I could go on ad infinitum but let’s cool temper for now.
Chief Dele Momodu
Director of Strategic Communications
ATIKU/OKOWA Presidential Campaign Council.
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS SOCIAL WORKER, REV AUSTIN EPUNAM, AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with the family, friends and relations of Rev (Dr) Austin Epunam, as the social worker, businessman, and publisher turns 60 October 29, 2022.
The President appreciates the grace of God upon the life of the Ndiakwu Otolo Nnewi born cleric, in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, applauding him for his crusade in dissuading young people from irregular migration through his non-governmental organization, Sweet Home Africa.
President Buhari also lauds the commitment of Epunam to the crusade against breast and cervical cancers, which he takes round the country, and beyond.
As Epunam turns 60, the President wishes him renewed vigor in his enterprises, and greater health and strength to serve God and humanity for long time to come.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
October 29, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES CHIEF AFE BABALOLA AT 93
President Muhammadu Buhari sends greetings to the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Chief Afe Babalola, on his 93rd birthday, October 30, 2022, congratulating the renowned lawyer and educationist for lofty dreams, commendable achievements and contributions to the development of the country.
President Buhari shares the joy of the occasion with family, friends and professional colleagues of the nonagenarian, who was called to the England bar in 1963, and became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987, raising the standard of legal profession in Nigeria by dint of hard work, and grooming generation of lawyers that continue to carry on his legacy.
The President celebrates Chief Babalola for his love and care for others, envisioning and realizing one of the best universities in the country, with world class administration, faculties and departments, especially in health care and following up to provide scholarship for indigent citizens.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will uphold the lawyer and educationist in good health and grant him more strength to keep serving the country and humanity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 29, 2022
2023: SERAP asks Atiku, Tinubu, Obi, others to publish sources of their campaign funding
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an open letter to presidential candidates ahead of the February 2023 presidential election, urging them to demonstrate leadership by directing their “campaign councils and political parties to regularly and widely publish the sources of their campaign funding.”
SERAP said: “We are concerned about the vulnerability of political parties to corruption. Disproportionally large donations seeking specific outcomes or preferential treatment can subvert the wider public interest.”
In the open letter dated 29 October, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Transparency would help to control inappropriate influence on political candidates, ensure fairness, equality, and accountability in Nigeria’s democracy.”
SERAP also said, “Transparency in campaign funding would improve public trust in Nigeria’s politicians and political parties, and show your commitment to prevent and combat corruption if elected.”
According to SERAP, “If Nigerians know where the money is coming from, they can scrutinise the details, and hold to account the candidate and party that receive it.”
The letter, read in part: “SERAP would consider appropriate legal actions to hold you and your political party to account for any infractions of the requirements of campaign funding, as provided for by the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], the Electoral Act and international standards, even after the 2023 elections.”
“SERAP urges you to sign ‘transparency pacts’ that would mandate you to disclose the identities of donors and widely publish donations and contributions including on your party website and social media platforms.”
“Party corruption undermines the legitimacy of government, public trust and, ultimately, democracy.”
“Opacity in campaign funding can distort the electoral competition and lead to state capture by wealthy politicians and individuals, and encourage politicians to divert public resources for political purposes.”
“Transparency in campaign funding would ensure fair and open elections, and address concerns about undue influence by the more economically advantaged and privileged individuals, as well as prevent corruption of the electoral process.”
“Political parties provide the necessary link between voters and government. No other context is as important to democracy than elections to public office. Nigerians therefore must be informed about the sources of campaign funding of those who seek their votes.”
“SERAP also urges you to urgently invite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to monitor campaign funding and expenditures by your political party.”
“The UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party obligates states parties to enhance transparency in the funding of candidates for elected public office and, where applicable, the funding of political parties.”
“Similarly, the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption which Nigeria has also ratified requires states parties to incorporate the principle of transparency into funding of political parties.”
“Sections 225 and 226 of the Nigerian Constitution and Sections 86, 87 and 90 the Electoral Act 2022 demonstrate the importance of transparency and accountability in party and campaign finances, and why political parties must be proactive in disclosing the sources of their donations and contributions, and how they spend the funds they receive.”
“Please let us know if you and your political party are willing to commit to the issues outlined in this letter.”
Presidential candidates for Nigeria’s general elections in 2023 include: Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP); Asiwaju Bola Tinubu of All Progressive Congress (APC); Mr Peter Obi of Labour Party (LP); Mr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP); and Professor Peter Umeadi of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA).
Others include: Prince Malik Ado-Ibrahim of Young Progressive Party (YPP); Omoyele Sowore of Africa Action Congress (AAC); Prince Adewole Adebayo of Social Democratic Party (SDP); Mr Kola Abiola of Peoples Redemption Party (PRP); Professor Christopher Imumulen of Accord Party (AP); Dumebi Kachikwu of African Democratic Congress (ADC); and Yusuf Mamman Dan Talle of Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
30/10/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
WE’RE READY TO FINISH STRONG -WIKE
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has reiterated the resolve of his administration to finish strong and do proper handover to his successor on 28th May 2023.
Governor Wike maintained that what it means is for every member of the State Executive Council to recommit themselves to the tasks assigned to them and achieve desired results.
The governor spoke at the swearing-in ceremony of 18 new commissioners at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Governor Wike observed that because some members of the State Executive Council do not appreciate the enormity of the task given to them, rather they take to sycophancy while abandoning their duties.
“This is the last lap of our administration. We have only 7 months to end the tenure of this administration. It is very important for you to understand that you have to double efforts to make sure that what we have started will be completed.”
Governor Wike emphasised the need for a proper handover to be done to the succeeding administration in good time. He therefore charged the new commissioners and those already in the cabinet to begin compilation of necessary data so that the reports will be ready in good time.
“Make sure that you start preparing your handover note, not waiting for dying minute of the last week. You already know we must handover latest 28th May 2023.
“29th May 2023 is swearing in, so we will fully handover on 28th and then do ceremony of swearing in of the next governor on the 29th May 2023.”
Governor Wike announced the transfer of the Dr. Nabo Graham Douglas Campus of the Nigerian Law School project from the Ministry of Special Projects to the Ministry of Works.
He charged the new commissioners to maximise the opportunity given to them to serve the State diligently for the sake of posterity.
“So, if you know you’re not committed to serve the State, you better withdraw.”
The commissioners sworn in are: Prof. Princewill Chike, Hon. Jacobson Nbina, Mr. Ndubuisi Okere, Mrs Inime Aguma, Charles Amadi, Mrs. Tonye Oniyinde Briggs, Mr. Ben Daminabo, Mr. Chris Finebone, Austin Ben Chioma.
Others include, Mr Uchechukwu Nwafor, Dr. Fred Barivule Kpakol, Emenike Oke, Mr. Prince Ohia, Prof. Kaniye Ebeku, Mr. Ezekiel Agri, Mrs. Ukiel Oyaghiri , Hon. Damiete Herbert Miller and Hon Emeka Onowu.
Similarly, the governor also sworn in Mr. Clifford Oparaodu as a member of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission.
YOU ARE THE FACES OF NIGERIA, PRESIDENT BUHARI TELLS NIGERIANS IN SOUTH KOREA; RESTATES COMMITMENT TO DEEPENING DEMOCRACY AT HOME
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Seoul, Republic of Korea, reminded Nigerians resident in the Asian country that they are the “faces of Nigeria,” and should endeavour to project a positive image of the country through their actions, characters, conducts and general comportments.
The President stated this during an interactive meeting with the leadership and select members of the Nigerian Community as part of his engagements at the end of the First World Bio Summit 2022, while urging them to remain good ambassadors of Nigeria at all times.
According to President Buhari, “As law abiding citizens of our great country, I advise that you replicate the excellent Nigerian virtues by coexisting peacefully with your hosts and abide by the laws of the land. You must always strive to eschew any acts of lawlessness in your day-to-day activities and to take it as major responsibility to encourage other Nigerians to always remain of excellent behaviour.”
Further reminding them that “Nigeria is and will always be our only country,” he enjoined them “to always pray and work for the peace and prosperity of our beloved country. Let us desist from any acts capable of causing disaffection among our people. Nigerians in diaspora in many countries of the world have achieved tremendous successes through hard work, resilience and resourcefulness and I have no doubt in my mind that similar success stories will continue to be replicated amongst the Nigerian diaspora community in the Republic of South Korea.”
The Nigerian leader, who assured them that the Federal Government, through the Embassy will always strive to protect their interests by ensuring that “none of you is unjustly treated at all times,” appealed to them to “see all Nigerians as brothers and sisters irrespective of tribe and religion and collectively work to positively project the image of the country.”
On preparations for the 2023 national elections, which he said, are in active stages, the President sought for their “prayers and support to enable us transit peacefully to the next administration and deepen the democratic processes in our country,” expressing delight that the “outcomes of the last four off-season elections, have left us with great optimism for better conducted and acceptable 2023 elections.”
Speaking earlier on behalf of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), South Korea, the President, Chiemeka Ndukwu, had thanked President Buhari for creating Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NiDCOM) as well as “approving a production line for international passports which we now have here in the Republic of Korea,” adding that “This has eased the stress of going to China, Malaysia or back home for intervention.”
He appealed to the Federal Government to reach a Bilateral Labour Agreement (BLA) with the Republic of Korea, stressing that if signed, it “will not just create job opportunities and increase foreign exchange remittance,” but “also ensure the transfer of technology and skills since these trainees will not just return to Nigeria with enough capital to set up factories and businesses that will employ people, they will also be returning with the skills and technology they acquired.”
Other prominent NIDO members who also attended the interactive session were drawn from construction, insurance, private business sectors as well as male and female representatives of students undergoing post-graduate studies in specialized fields.
It is noteworthy that Engr. Dogara Gani who specializes in smart farming through drone technology; Ms. Hussaina Abdullahi, an IT specialist; and Dr. Kalu Ekpeghere, an assistant professor in environmental engineering at Woosong University, were among other well-established Nigerians in South Korea who also participated in the meeting coordinated by NiDCOM Chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2022
October 27, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Congratulates Chief Dan Orbih on Birthday
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) felicitates with its National Vice Chairman (South South) Chief Dan Osi Orbih as he celebrates his birthday today.
Chief Dan Orbih is a grassroot politician who continues to make immense contributions in the development of our nation, Nigeria.
The PDP congratulates Chief Orbih on this auspicious occasion and prays to God to continue to grant him long life in good health to the Glory of His Name.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
October 27, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Congratulates Adamawa State Governor Fintiri at 55
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) celebrates the Governor of Adamawa State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri as he marks his 55th birthday.
Governor Fintiri is an outstanding statesman, very resourceful administrator and distinguished legislator who remains committed to the unity, wellbeing and development of our nation.
Our Party notes with pride Governor Fintiri’s extraordinary commitment to duty as the Speaker of Adamawa State House of Assembly and now Governor of the State. He continues to ensure peaceful and harmonious co-existence, economic empowerment of citizens as well as human capital and land mark infrastructural development across critical sectors in the State as articulated in the manifesto of the PDP.
The PDP recognizes his excellent delivery of service particularly in legacy infrastructural development; notably the construction of the Yola Flyover in Adamawa State, the first ever in the entire North East region of our country. No wonder the Federal Government recently acknowledged this pioneering feat among others by conferring on him the Nigeria Excellence Award in Public Service.
Governor Fintiri remains a loyal Partyman and our Party appreciates his role as the Chairman of the 2021 PDP National Convention that midwifed the current National Working Committee of the Party. This set in motion our Party’s mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP celebrates this patriotic Nigerian and prays to God to bless him with many more years in good health as he continues to provide service to our fatherland and humanity.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
GOV AKEREDOLU CELEBRATES DR ADEBIMPE OKUNADE @90
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON on Saturday joined family, friends and associates to celebrate Dr. Adebimpe Olutayo Okunade on her 90th Birth Anniversary.
The Governor graced the 90th Birthday thanksgiving service held at All Saints’ Church Jericho, Ibadan, Oyo State Capital.
In his homily, the officiating minister, Most Reverend Dr. Tunji Olaosebikan urged the congregation to be appreciative to God for protection and provision.
2023: ANTECEDENTS OF CANDIDATES SHOULD BE PROOF OF CAPACITY – GOV AKEREDOLU
- Says Dubious People Want To Take Advantage Of Religion
- Hails President Buhari For Bequeathing Legacy Of Electoral Integrity
Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has said the antecedents of prominent candidates in the forthcoming presidential election should be the evidence of their capacity to lead the country.
Governor Akeredolu charged the people of Nigeria to keep the debate on equity and justice alive for peace to reign in the land.
He added that the south must produce the next President in the spirit of equity and fairness.
The Governor spoke on Friday at the 16th Jesus Festival Dinner of the Ibadan Anglican Diocese held at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Agodi, Ibadan. He was the Chairman of the occasion. Engineer Remi Osiberu,FNSE was the Special Guest of Honour.
Governor Akeredolu, who noted that competence and integrity should be the criteria for representation, stressed that the recent debate on representation on account of faith is most unnecessary.
He said: ”As Christians, we must not only be prayerful. It is important that we adopt proactive measures in our bid to protect ourselves against any evil design. We must be vigilant and ready to challenge all actions which threaten to relegate our collective interest to the background.
“In the same vein, we must be wary of the antics of the cunning and deceitful who may wish to exploit the challenges to advance their destructive designs.
“In as much as we encourage full participation of Christians in politics, our involvement must not be used to create disaffection among the various ethnic and religious groups in the country. We must resist the attempts by some elements to use religion to perpetuate crisis.
“Christians are yet to come together to elect representatives who must vie for political offices. Any individual aspiring to serve in any capacity should project his or her strength of character rather than hide under an omnibus but clearly dubious forum to appropriate our collective rights for personal consideration.
“The recent debate on representation on account of faith is most unnecessary. Competence and integrity should be the criteria for representation.
“All those who do not wish to be ruled by persons of dubious character should endeavour to be active in the days ahead. Let all those with their PVCs vote for candidates of their choice. All candidates should be put to the strictest proof of their claims.
“Anyone who exhibits any shred of doubt should be rejected roundly. The antecedents of prominent candidates in the forthcoming presidential elections, and even ALL elections, should be evidence of capacity. The manifesto belongs, largely, to the party.
“We must do more than criticism in the next elections or be ready to be ruled by those with no enviable pedigree. We must participate or be damned.
“We must tell all self-appointed spokespersons of the Christian faith to leave partisan politics for the practitioners and concentrate on the works for which they are called or appointed.”
Governor Akeredolu, who recalled that the political space was awash with embarrassing tales of assassination, thuggery and ballot snatching in the past, hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for setting the country free from the evils.
He said the President is determined to bequeath a legacy of electoral integrity to the country, adding that Election results are becoming more credible with reduced volume of election petition cases in the courts.
“Above all, the President has not allowed partisan interest to becloud his sense of fairness. He congratulates, almost always, whoever becomes victorious regardiess of the political parties to which the person belongs.
“On the whole, there is the pervasive feeling of improvement in the electoral process. The country can still do better than what is obtainable now. We are at a point where all of us must resolve to take more than a passing interest in what affects our general interest as citizens of the country.
“We must resist the temptation to stand aloof while others determine our collective destiny as a people. We must keep the debate on equity and justice alive for peace to reign in the land,” the Governor said.
Earlier in his Exhortation, the Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Rev’d Dr. J.O Akinfenwa, congratulated Governor Akeredolu on his recent national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON, describing it as well deserved.
He noted the Governor’s numerous roles to make life better for the needy especially by promoting adequate security for their lives and property.
The cleric encouraged Nigerians to be vigilant and select credible leaders during the fast approaching election, urging more prayers for the nation.
At the event were some members of the state executive council and APC candidates.
Highlight of the event was presentation of award to the Governor and his family in recognition of his commitment to the security of lives and property of the people, his interventions on national issues and contributions to governance and Law profession.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 28, 2022.
GOV AKEREDOLU RECONSTRUCTS OVER 35KM AKURE TOWNSHIP ROADS
- We ‘II Reciprocate With Massive Votes Come 2023-Residents
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON has commenced the reconstruction of over 35 kilometers network of roads in Akure, the state capital.
According to the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr Raimi Aminu, the roads being reconstructed are existing roads built by the government several years ago and are already in bad shapes with potholes and failed sections within the town.
Speaking during an unscheduled inspection visit on Thursday, the Commissioner appreciated Governor Akeredolu for his unwavering commitment to road infrastructure in the state.
He said the Governor’s efforts on infrastructure development has eased the suffering of the people, despite the scarce resources.
Some of the roads being asphalted are the five kilometers Oba-Ile Housing Estate which links two other Estates including Grace Land and Grace Garden with SIB, and the two kilometers Araromi to Don Bosco road in Akure.
Engr. Aminu, who noted that government is currently working on about 21 roads in the First Phase, assured that everybody will have a taste of good governance under the Governor Akeredolu administration.
He, however, urged the residents to take ownership of any government project in their areas and avoid actions that can cause damage on the roads.
The Commissioner explained that the Governor was able to continue his stride in infrastructure development because of his leadership qualities and uncommon passion for the development of the state.
He said:”A couple of months ago, we received several letters and complaints about bad portions of township roads, potholes, and failed sections within the town.
“We forwarded those letters and complaints to Mr Governor for approval after we have summarized the report and everything. And after our defence Mr Governor graciously approved it.
“Everybody knows government is working on infrastructure massively; we are constructing new roads, and despite that, we will not abandon the inherited ones because we have discovered that majority of our existing roads are bad.
“So, based on that, Mr Governor has graciously approved over 35 kilometers length of roads for maintenance as a Phase A. Oba-Ile Housing Estate road network which is about five kilometers is one of the roads. We are doing asphalt overlay now; they have done patching, maintenance and repair of drain. Few days ago they primed the surface.
“We are happy with what the contractor is doing and we are also happy with the good response from the residents. You can see they are appreciating what government is doing for them.
“Before now we promised to look into the road, and today you can see the level of completion and what the government is doing here.
“We also have other roads in the town. We started from Mother-and-Child road, Champion to Fanibi, Agagu road, Aule to Ilesa garage road, Araromi to Don Bosco, Araromi to Stadium. We are working on Adegbola-Ayedun to Leo too. And what we are doing is that we will maintain, patch and repair drains where necessary, and do complete overlay. So, we are giving new roads.
“With this, within the next couple of years there won’t be any maintenance because we discover that the lifespan of most of these roads has expired.
“So, we are working on about 21 roads as First Phase. After Araromi to Don Bosco, we are moving to Stadium and to Otenuro Avenue down to Edo Lodge, Iyeoma to Bishop’s Court, CBN quarters to Sijuade and a lot more.
“I want to use this medium to appreciate Mr Governor for his magnanimity. Despite paucity of funds he is still working massively on infrastructural projects. Even we, his lieutenants are amazed with what he is doing.
“Infrastructure is the bedrock of all development in the state. With this now, everybody is happy, the residents are happy and we thank God.” The Commissioner added.
Engr Aminu who was joined by a team of Engineers and top officials of the Ministry, assured that all the road projects will stand the test of time.
After supervising the asphalt overlay of about two kilometers Araromi road, Engr Aminu assured the poeple of the state of more life transforming projects across the state under Governor Akeredolu.
In separate remarks, some of the residents of Oba-Ile Housing Estate including Prince Kunle Ademeso and the Chairman, Grace Land Estate, Oba-Ile Olugbenga Popoola, expressed their gratitude to Governor Akeredolu for remembering them.
They promised to deliver massive votes for the APC come 2023 presidential polls because of what Governor Akeredolu led administration has done to alleviate their suffering.
Also at Araromi, some residents including Mrs Gbemisola Adelegan, Mr Jubril Yusuf, Mrs bosede Olawole, Tope Olaiya, said the good road will reduce constant damage on their vehicles and accidents that usually occur as a result of deplorable state of the road before government intervention.
According to them, the bad road has adversely affected the socio-economic activities in the areas until now.
PRESS RELEASE
Why Atiku is visiting US…….?
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar on Thursday arrived Washington DC, United States on a working visit.
The visit will afford the PDP presidential candidate the opportunity of high-level engagements aimed at setting the pace for building an economically stronger and more secure Nigeria, according to a statement by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe.
According to the statement, Atiku will be in the US for a week-long engagement that will opportune the frontline presidential candidate share his vision for Nigeria with US business communities and young Nigerian professionals in North America.
The delegation of the former Vice President comprise senior members of the PDP presidential campaign council, personal aides and other members of the PDP.
Those in the official delegation include the Director-General of the PDP presidential campaign council and governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, former governor of Imo, Emeka Ihedioha and Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, among others.
Signed:
Paul Ibe
Media Adviser to Atiku Abubakar
Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria, 1999-2007.
Abuja
28th October, 2022.
