Author Archives: News All Around

A group of northern Christian’s youths has called President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give priority to appointing northern Christians to principals’ positions in his government, siting that it mobilized Christians in the region to vote the President. The group made this call today in a congratulatory message to the President. ‘’It is with great pride that we recall our unwavering support and the efforts made by our organization to mobilize Christians from the Northern region to vote for you’’

It will be recalled that the Northern Christian Youth Professionals among the very few Christians in the region to come out publicly and declare support for Tinubu and his Vice who are both Muslims, the northern Christians especially the APC chieftains led by former Secretary of the Federation Mr. Lawal Babachir and Former Speaker of House Representatives Yakubu Dogara had rejected the ‘’muslim muslim’’ ticket back in July when Vice President Kashim Shettima was picked as Tinubu as the running mate.

The Christians are now asking ‘’ for increased representation and inclusion in decision-making processes. By appointing deserving Northern Christians to important roles such as the Secretary General of the Federation, Security Chiefs, and other principal positions’’, Adding that such appointments will only acknowledge their collective support but also ensure that the diverse voices and perspectives of the northern region are duly represented at the highest levels of governance.

The Press statement from the group also urged the President Tinubu to revitalize the Forest Guards, which promised in his Renewed Hope manifesto will help to monitor, identify, and track down violent and criminal groups in the likes of Boko Haram, Bandits in the forests’e recognize the magnitude of this task and the impact it can have on national security, the revaltilzed Forest Gaurds can recruit and employ one hundred and eighty-five thousand young Nigeria individuals within the first six months in fulfilment of one million jobs promised from the digital economy’’.

The statement signed by the chairman of the group Isaac Abrak says demands that the President revitalize the Forest Guard in his first 6 months of his administration siting his success and that of his vice who both created government agencies that employ youths enmass that curb insecurity when they both governors of Lagos and Borno states respectively.’’Drawing upon your experience as the Governor of Lagos State, where you successfully utilized mass youth employment through the establishment of the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency, and your Vice President Kashim Shettima instrumental role in establishing the Civilian Joint Task Force as a Goernor in Borno State’’ as such NCYP says they have great confidence in Tinubu and Kashim’s. ability to make this ambitious plan a reality within the first 6 months of their administration.

The group further praised the President for announcing the removal of the fuel subsidy, describing it as ‘’audacious’’ and a bold step that demonstrates his commitment to implementing crucial reforms for the betterment of the nation, urging the President to remain steadfast in his resolve and push forward with removing the fuel subsidy, keeping in mind its potential to create a more sustainable and equitable economic environment for all Nigerians.

Engr. Ogbonna Nwaiwu member
Professionals For Good Governance (PFGG) has said a new dawn beckons in the land of hills and valleys as Mr Peter Mbah takes the seat of power in Enugu state.

Nwaiwu in a press statement titled “Cometh The Hour Cometh The Man: A New Dawn Is Here With Peter Mbah In The Driving Seat. – Professionals For Good Governance.” Said the down pour of rain since the night of 28th of may into the early morning of today is a sign that Mbah administration will usher in great moments for the state.

The Full Statement reads;

“With nature speaking out in monumental proportions and the elements pouring out rain in somewhat amazing dimensions, a New Dawn beckons in the land of Hills and Valleys. Enugu the moment and the hour is here, as a New Dawn replete with great promises unfold.”

“Our Team on ground in the capital city of Enugu State, have told us how the heavens have poured out its belly since the night of the 28th of May, 2023, and have continued to do so in a manner never seen in ages. It does appear a befitting close of an era and a wonderful opening of the new. The Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi era like everything consonant with the transience of power comes to an end today, as a new watchman comes in the saddle.”

“We are positive that Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah will hit the ground running. We are confident that he ‘knows the road’. And we are going to be on him to make sure he lives real and true to the promises he made Ndi’Enugu.”

“He has assured us that he will not let Ndi’Enugu down. He says to everyone that this moment and hour calls for folded sleeves and boots, that there is no time to engage in the luxury of officialdom, and that the day to take Enugu State to greater heights is here. We wish him well.”

“We pray that like he assembled an awesome Transition Team of eggheads and professionals, that he diligently goes to work with the best Team of Advisers, Aides and Commissioners he can find. Yes, our nation is replete with excellent minds and thinkers of repute, he must find and engage them.”

“As a Technocrat in Politics he knows that success has no short cuts, he must come to the party with competent, capable and credible hands, he must surpass the feats of his predecessors, and he must deliver on the Olympic promises he has made the people of Enugu State.”

“We wish all the elected public office holders taking the Oath of Office today the best, as we insist that they understand that the raging minimum across the nation today is a call to service not sleaze. A call to sacrifice not selfishness. A call to patriotism not profligacy. A call to dedication to common good not the depletion of our collective patrimony. And a call to effective and effectual inclusion not exclusion. We wish Ndi’Enugu and indeed Nigerians well.”

The Northwest Progressives Forum( NPF) has lampooned ex-Presidential aide Mr. Obono-Obla, for what it described as “reckless outburst and attention-seeking rant” against Senator Abdul’Aziz Yari, a frontline APC contender for the slot of Senate President.

In a media statement signed by the group’s Director of Public Relations, Adamu Isa on Saturday, the group wondered why the ex-presidential aide “who has case of fraud with the ICPC has the guts to call Yari names and even object the APC Senate President’s legitimate struggle for the number-three seat”.

The group, in the statement, recalled that “the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) in late January 2021 arraigned Mr. Obono-Obla, and two others for fraud and certificate forgery.”

The Statement stressed that Obono-Obla, as a former Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution and ex-Chairman of the disbanded Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP), “was arraigned by the ICPC and the matter is not yet over”.

The NPF also reacted to the stance of the Forum of National Assembly Legislative Aides from the North West, which reportedly expressed displeasure with the refusal of Yari to back down for Senator Akpabio.

“We were not surprised that the Forum of Legislative Aides of the National Assembly would hold a Press Conference to insinuate that Yari’s backing out of the race was the only way forward just because they have a hidden agenda . Truth is, at the end of the day, only Senators elected under the 10th Senate have the power to choose their leaders from amongst themselves.

“We’re happy to have read and fully support the position of the ruling party as reflected in the full-page interview of the National Chairman of the APC, His Excellency Abdullahi Adamu, in the Daily Trust, when he said ‘ Senators will elect elect their leaders on D-day”, the NPF Director said in the Statement.

Millions of seasoned Ministers and Pastors from around the world would participate in the two-day Global Ministers’ Classroom (GMC) with Pastor Chris, an interdenominational program organized under the auspices of the International School of Ministry for Prayer, Fellowship, Strategy, and the Word.

The program is open to all Ministers of the Gospel – Church Leaders, Pastors, Ministry Leaders and Executives, Ministry staff, and all categories of Church Workers. The first edition of the program which was held in 2018, was born out of the desire of the man of God, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Dsc D.D, to have a platform through which the Holy Spirit equips and imparts Ministers of the Gospel for remarkable and transformational impact in Ministry. Over the years, classroom attendance has increased; from 8 million in 2018 to 78 million in 2022 with participating Ministers from 239 Nations of the world.

Today, the GMC has become one of the tools that have helped millions of ministers of the Gospel around the world to become effective in their work and walk in ministry; and to fulfill God’s calling upon their lives. Indeed, in these unprecedented times, the Global Ministers’ Classroom will strengthen Ministers’ desire to fulfill their role in evangelization and making disciples of nations.

This year’s 24-hour edition with the man of God, Pastor Chris, is scheduled to commence on Friday, 2nd of June by 2 pm GMT+1 and ends on Saturday, 3rd of June. There will also be teachings from seasoned Senior Ministers of the Gospel, impact testimonies from previous program attendees, Question and Answer segment, where participants will have their questions answered by the man of God in real-time, and lots more. It promises to be an extraordinary time of revelatory teachings and impartation for greater works in these last days.

“Ministers of the Gospel, prepare for the program and pray about it….it is the Spirit’s call; it is a moment of mobilization; God is mobilizing His Army; He is getting us ready for the final phase for the work of the Church in this world.” Rev. Chris Oyakhilome, Dsc DD.

The event will also be broadcast live in all major languages of the world; to allow many more ministers of the Gospel to participate in the program.
Registration for the program is on and free; so go ahead to register yourself, Ministers, and Christian leaders in your sphere of contact via
http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org/v/NigeriaGMC/

Ministers who have attended previous editions of the program recount their experience and testimonies of the impact of the program thus:
“I attended GMC 2022, and experienced a tangible increase in the anointing of God’s Spirit in my personal life and Ministry. My church has also experienced increased growth tremendously ever since”- Pastor Martinis Marinko from Croatia

“Through the teachings at the GMC, my leadership capacity was greatly increased. I became more committed to the vision of global evangelism, which led me to travel to countries such as Singapore and Bangladesh, to host Ministers Conferences for the training and equipping for more ministers for phenomenal ministry impact”.- Pastor MV. Thomas from India

“Following my participation in the GMC, the fire and passion to win more souls for Jesus was greatly stirred. I held a crusade in Nairobi, Kenya and packed out the stadium. Thousands of souls received salvation and many miracles were recorded. This brought about an increase in my church growth” – Pastor Judah Kalinga from Uganda

“After one of the editions of the GMC, I hosted the largest Ministers Conference in my country. I have also experienced notable increase in my personal finance, church growth and leadership capacity”.- Pastor Isaac Zirebwa from Zimbabwe

The 2023 GMC is just a few days away! Ministers of the Gospel from every nation on Earth will converge in this global online assembly, and be transported by God’s Spirit to fresh and new levels of effectiveness in life and ministry.

To register for the program, kindly log on to
http://www.ismglobalministersclassroom.org/v/NigeriaGMC/
and invite other Ministers of the Gospel and Christian Leaders in your world.

A political activist and former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Timi Frank, has faulted Friday’s decision of the Supreme Court on the double nomination case against the joint ticket of the President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had approached Court to invalidate the joint ticket.

Reacting to the judgement through a statement, Timi Frank said the court that is meant to be the last hope of the citizenry has become a place of the highest bidder, wondering whom Nigerians offended.

According to the activist, one would be tempted to ask if there is hope in the ongoing Election Petition Tribunal? Would we be surprised if the aggrieved parties are at the end of the day described as busy bodies?

He said: “It is a sad day in Nigeria. The court that is meant to be the last hope of the citizenry has become a place of the highest bidder. Who did we offend as a country? Where in the world do you see judges jump into the arena in delivering judgments? Why would you not decide the cases on their merit.

“This rulling has clearly shown that they are partisan. The hope of the country has been dashed by this singular act. Why would our courts decisions be premised on sentiments?

“One thing I will say to our judicial officers today is; many days for the thief but one day for the owner.

“My hope is that, God will one day, rescue Nigeria from the shackles of these justices, whereby they will no longer determine who governs us as we expect that our elections will be manned by men and women of integrity, unlike Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and his cohorts.

“It is a fact that in Nigeria of today, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the rulling party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) will beg people to go to court because they know our courts have been compromised.

“What happened to the days of Justice Niki Tobi, Justice Anthony Aniagolu, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Justice Tabai and many more? – Who stood against the military and many odds to deliver very sound judgments that were seen to be fair and just.”

While asking Nigerians not to lose hope, Timi Frank, who is the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP), Ambassador to East Africa and Middle East, said Nigerians should not relent and not be defeated in the face of injustice in the country.

“Are Nigerians surprised? I would say No. I only thought, the Supreme Court will take a cue from Kenya to redeem their image as men of integrity.

“In the past few weeks, I have read where the Chief Justice of Nigeria charged the Justices and other judicial officers to be fair and just to all in the delivery of their judgments. As good as this may sound, we would not be deceived with the tomfoolery.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu said more than that, yet administered the worst election in the history of Nigeria.

“We as a people, reject today’s judgment in it’s entirety as it epitomizes compromise and it’s a show of shame to Nigeria and the entire world.

“It is good to state at this point that our spirit as Nigerias is very high. We shall not relent and we will not be defeated!

“We shall await the outcome of the Election Tribunal.
It is another opportunity to do the right thing in order to be remembered as Justice Niki Tobi, Justice Oputa , Justice Aniogolu and the likes or do the wrong thing and have your names and that of your family destroyed forever.

“Posterity will judge all of us at the end of the day.”

Press Statement.

I have a solemn and urgent duty today. It is to alert you to the danger that you are about throwing away our hard won democracy due to the culture of indiscipline, impunity and insensitivity that you have grown in recent years.

The Issue:

The issue is simple. The Constitution at section 134(2)(b) states that a candidate for the office of President at an election involving two or more candidates is deemed duly elected where the candidate obtains the highest votes at the election and at least 25% of the votes in each of two thirds of all the States and the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. Where no candidate meets this requirement, there should be a second election between the candidate with the highest votes and one out of the remainder who has a majority of the votes in the highest number of States. Where the requirement of spread is still not met, there should be a third election between the two which should be decided on a simple majority of votes. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu did not obtain the required 25% of the votes in Abuja but insists on being sworn in as President and Commander-in-Chief.

The Threat:
Section 1(2) of the Constitution prohibits anyone or group from taking control of the Government of the Federation or any part thereof contrary to the provisions of the Constitution. It is the responsibility of all Nigerians, including the military to safeguard the Constitution. Section 14(2)(a) of the Constitution expressly declares that the people are the true sovereign and the ultimate authority in the land from whom the Government derives the authority to govern through the Constitution.

The Constitution has therefore authorized each and every Nigerian in whatever position that he finds himself and with whatever means at his disposal to safeguard the Constitution by resisting any would-be impostor from power. The primary allegiance of our soldiers is to the Constitution, which is also the source of their own authority and standing as officers of the nation. They cannot be expected to give allegiance to anyone that is installed President contrary to the Constitution.

The upshot is that if we proceed to install Tinubu President and Commander-in-Chief under the present circumstances, we would be setting democracy up for overthrow. The intervention, ostensibly to restore the authority of the Constitution, and democracy, might mean that this country might not experience democracy again for a long time.

We have the experience of late Earnest Shonekan and the Interim National Government that he headed that was sacked by a Lagos High Court for lack of constitutional foundation for guidance and certainty regarding the point that every High Court in this country is empowered to interpret the Constitution and may therefore sack Tinubu, if installed, with a simple declaration. That would set the stage for extra constitutional actions that would be justified with the excuse of restoring the authority of the Constitution. It would be the death of democracy in the country.

The Solution:
We need to exercise discipline to obey the simple instruction of our Constitution. Section 134(3)(a) and (b) instruct us to proceed to a second election between Tinubu, as the candidate with the highest votes, and one of the other candidates that has the majority of votes in the highest number of States. We should embark on that in earnest.

May 29th 2023 and after:

We are faced with neither the prospect of a vacuum in the office of President nor that of constitutional crises if we put off the planned inauguration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Constitution expects us to do. His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari GCON, has the authority, nay, the order of the Constitution to remain in office to guard and guide the action while processes for the due emergence of his successor continue until that successor takes the oath of office. If we proceed to install Tinubu unconstitutionally, the Constitution would still continue to regard President Buhari as the President and Commander in Chief. Anything that is done contrary to the Constitution is a nullity. Four years as a tenure under section 135(2)(a) would become an issue only when there is a due successor available to take the oath of office.

We implore the Chief Justice of Nigeria, the President and Commander in Chief, the security chiefs and all other officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria not to be complicit in the overthrow of the Constitution by lending their support for the installation of Tinubu as President of this country on May 29th or any other day under the present election results.

The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal:

The PEPT as presently engaged has no constitutional basis. It is only when there is a valid declaration of a winner of the election that its jurisdiction can be invoked. The grounds for invoking it under section 134 of the Electoral Act are (1) non-qualification of the winner (b) invalidity of the election, and © failure of the declared winner to obtain majority of the votes. The issue of failure to secure 25% of the votes in two thirds of all the States and the FCT is not one of the conditions. It is left out because it is a constitutional issue that should be resolved before the PEPT is constituted. The Constitution demands a second election at the present time unless any petitioner before the PEPT can satisfy it that he fulfilled the requirements of section 134(2)(b) of the Constitution and should have been declared winner.

Conclusion:
We call on the intentional community not to encourage the overthrow of democracy and the possible institution of anarchy in the Nigeria with their support for the unconstitutional installation of Tinubu as the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on the 29th of May 2023.

Chuks Nwachuku Esq.
Solicitor to Abuja Residents and Voters.

By: Musa Musawa

The leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN, North East zone has said that that major challenges affecting the economics development and growth in Nigeria is ineffective and inefficient financial resource management.

The group through its organizing secretary, Amb. Ibrahim Dangata Inuwa, during a press conference which held in Abuja and copy of the text made available to newsmen in Kaduna, hailed Admiral Dr. K. M Bushi following his recent book launch titled; “fundamentals of Nigerian public finance and accounting, stressing that there is no better time for the unveiling of the book than now because of the dwindling revenue Nigeria has been confronted with in the recent time.

According to Inuwa, the book will contribute immensely to the Society and the entire body of knowledge in Nigeria, adding that It is a fact that one of the “major challenges affecting economics development and growth in Nigeria is ineffective and inefficient financial resource management”.

The Youth group also stressed that Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral resources but there is nothing much to show due to lack of effective management of revenue generated from exploration and exploitation of those resources.

They said, “the leadership of National Youth Council of Nigeria North-East Zone wish to use this medium to felicitate with Admiral Dr. K.M Bushi over the Unveiling of the book titled ‘’Fundamentals of Nigerian Public Finance and Accounting’’. There is no better time for the unveiling of the book than now because of the dwindling revenue Nigeria has been confronted with in the recent time.

“There is no doubt that this book will contribute immensely to scholarly Society and the entire body of knowledge in Nigeria. It is a fact that one of the major challenges affecting economics development and growth in Nigeria is ineffective and inefficient financial resource management.

“Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral resources but ironically there is nothing much to show due to lack of effective management of revenue generated from exploration and exploitation of those resources.

“We are very much excited with the unveiling of this book because of the timing. Over time, government revenue has drastically dropped down and the only way out is to embrace some of the far reaching recommendations made by Admiral Dr. K.M Bushi in his book titled ‘’Fundamentals of Nigerian Public Finance and Accounting”.

“Admiral Dr. K.M Bushi has distinguished himself in several respects. In the military, he has carved a niche for himself as a disciplined and integrity personified officer. He has conducted himself with dignity and respect.

“He is exemplary, he is an embodiment of Knowledge, he is a scholar per excellence, a role model, a prolific author, a beacon of hope to we the younger generations, a detribalized individual, a benefactor to underprivileged, a compassionate individual, a patriotic Nigeria to the core, a humble man to a fault.

“In short, we are short of words to describe this exceptional gentleman. His contribution to societal development cannot be over quantified. It takes a lot of sacrifice, tenacity of purpose and dedication for him to have put this important idea into a book. Despites his tight schedules as Chief of Naval budget and account, he is able to achieved this meritorious and praiseworthy feat in scholarly society.

“Although, we are not surprise because we are familiar with his antecedents as a goal getter and a resilient individual. We will ever be supremely and immensely proud of him. The entire youth of North east, particularly Taraba State where he hails from will continue to look up to him as a mentor, father and a role model.

“The leadership of National youth council of Nigeria North east zone will continue to identify with admiral Dr. K.M Bushi for a number of reasons. Chiefly amongst the reason is his unconditional beliefs in youth development and empowerment. He is a pacesetter in youth development in Nigeria. We are very much proud of his exemplary contributions to humanity and the body of knowledge especially in public finance in Nigeria.

“In conclusion, we are using this medium to call on high government officials both within and outside the military to emulate the sterling qualities of Admiral K.M Bushi. Government officials must brace up and wake up to their official responsibilities. They must lead by example if we must get it right.

“There is no doubt that admiral K.M Bushi has paid his Due as far as evolution of modern Nigeria is concern. No wonder he has several awards to his credit. We urge governmental officials at all level to live by example and be a role model like admiral Bushi. We appeal to Nigerian government to utilize human resources like Admiral Bushi for the overall benefit of the country.

“Finally, we are using this medium to thank profusely the chief of Naval staff, Admiral A.Z Gambo for his untiring support to Admiral Dr. K.M Bushi. We humbly urge him to sustain the support.We are calling on Nigeria Government at all level to procure this book titled “fundamentals of Nigeria Public Finance and Accounting for all government revenue generating agencies, Tertiary institutions libraries, Directors of finance and accounting and government auditors.

“This is because the core issues considered in the book encompasses budgeting and appropriation, financial recording and accountability, sources of public revenue, public expenditure management and controls, public financial reporting system, Taxation, pension and gratuity, public debt management, auditing and lastly public sector financial reforms in Nigeria”.

ENDS

Comrade Elliot Afiyo is the National President of the Northern Youth Leaders Forum (NYLF), the umbrella Organisation of 42 Northern youth groups founded in 1994 by the Northern Traditional, Military, Political and Religious leaders to propagate and protect the northern political and economic interest within the national interest.

Comrade (Dr) Elliot Afiyo is also the Secretary – General of the Association of West African Monarchs (AWAM), the umbrella body of Traditional Rulers in West Africa. In this interview with Journalists in Abeokuta, Comrade Afiyo bares his mind on the 2023 general elections.

Questions;

Comrade sir, since 1999, your Forum secured victories for Candidates you endorsed and supported at all levels since 1999. But in the last presidential elections, former vice president Atiku lost in spite of all your support and endorsement. What went wrong Sir?

Comrade Afiyo;

Thank you very much. I want to tell you categorically that Atiku did not lose the 2023 presidential election because there wasn’t any candidate that meets up with the constitutional requirements to be declared the winner of the 2023 presidential election. It was a conspiracy in dietriabe to declaring Tinubu as the winner of that election for fear of a rerun. 2023 presidential election was full of betrayals, conspiracies and deceptions

Questions;

But your Forum couldn’t make the difference like the previous elections since 1999.

Comrade Afiyo;

Our Forum performed the best ever since 1999. For the first time, our Forum faced the toughest and most challenging election and came out with good results especially in the North- East and North- West geopolitical zones.

Questions;

How tough was the election sir?

Comrade Afiyo;

You see, I held a press conference in Kano two weeks to the elections and drew the attention of our presidential candidate of an organised deception and betrayals. All the APC governors that promised to work for Atiku changed their minds three days to the elections because of the senseless and leucitic statement made by one of the Atiku’s campaign spokesmen that Atiku will investigate and jail them.

Secondly, the statement made by Atiku that he was going to restructure the country even at the detriment of his life, made the Fulani elites to work against him.

Thirdly, 85% of the people Atiku made as PCC members also betrayed him because the dollars given to them for logistics and mobilization, was only shared amongst and between them. They had erroneous and lithifying confidence that with or without mobilization, Atiku will win.

Fourthly, the people that were sincerely and honestly working for Atiku were side lined, barricaded, excluded and isolated. Thanks to some our patrons who saw all these things and decided to mobilise us and also gotten some assistance from international Organisations. These mobilisations coupled with our determination and commitments made the difference in the voting outcome.

We saw ourselves fighting against the collective decision of the Northern Governors, Fulani Elites and the Religious leaders from both the Islamic and Christian religions.

The Imams were heavily mobilised with millions of dollars while the statement made by Governor El-Rufai about the northern Christians population also encouraged and gingered the Christian clerics to mobilise Christians to waste their votes for Obi so as to prove El-Rufai wrong and teaches him and his cohorts a protogenetic and dangerous lesson. The ethnic angle was also given priority in some States like Kogi, Kwara and Niger. You can now see the forces NYLF faced and still ensured that Atiku won in the North.

Question;

Why Niger State?

Comrade Afiyo:

Whether you believe IT or not, Asiwaju has a link with the Nupes.

Question

Are you saying Tinubu did not win the 2023 Presidential election?

Comrade Afiyo;

I am telling you without fear of contradiction that Tinubu did not win the election that meets up with the constitutional requirements even after results were doctored. Prof Yakubu knew it and he made up his mind to announce a rerun. Thirty minutes to the announcement, he was summoned and the decision was changed. Alterations and doctoring of results were made, that is why he reluctantly staged a podiatric coup against democracy and Nigerians, by going ahead and announced Tinubu as the winner at about 4:am

Questions;

Sir, are you saying that Prof Yakubu staged a coup?

Comrade Afiyo;

Prof. Yakubu is a learn tic Coupist by every reasoning. Coups are normally announced at early hours of the day and that what was he did. I will not be surprised if Prof Yakubu is arrested and tried for treasonable felony in the nearest future.

Question;

But the Northern Elders Forum and the Arewa Consultative Forum supported Atiku?

Comrade Afiyo;

All these pressure groups are constituted for political relevance and financial patronage. They are far from translating to political victories. Unfortunately, the Aspirants and the Candidates patronize them at the detriment of the Youth groups. Some of these Individuals are not known in their localities. And if they are known, they cannot command political fellowship and followership which will translate to political voting and by extension, political victories.

Questions;

Sir, so you agree with Governor El-Rufai that they don’t control votes?

Comrade Afiyo;

I totally agree with him because he said nothing but the truth. How many of these Elders will secure a political victory for their Councillors not to talk of President? The Governors and the Youth Leaders control and determine the direction of voting in the North. The clerics are far politically better than these Elders.

The only aspect that I disagree with EL-Rufai is denigration and localisation of the elders by calling them ‘so called elders’ and his statement on the Northern Christians which has caused major division among the Northerners. If care is not taken or more awareness created, it will be very difficult for a Northerner to win presidential election in the nearest future in a free and fair elections unless that Northerner is a Muslim and must come from one of the minority tribes.

Question;

President Buhari said that Atiku lost the election because of over confidence and complacency

Comrade Afiyo;

That’s very true, over confidence in the sense that PCC members were doing what they feel like. Even the presidential Candidate and his running Mate were deliberately ignoring some stakeholders. The support groups were ignored and downgraded. The G5 Governors were termed and considered inconsequential. The Governor of Bauchi who is very popular and influential in the country especially the Northern Youth, was isolated not until I decided to take an action that maybe so devastating, before he was visited and invited for negotiation.

Let me tell you the truth, most of the key members of PCC of the PDP worked against Atiku because they have interest in 2027 and Atiku winning this election will block them. This is more reason why they pocketed the dollars, thereby frustrating the genuine efforts of Atiku’s supporters.

Another factor that causes complacency was the appointment of his spokesmen who were caucus members of the APC. These were people verily known with Tinubu, whatever they said were not given any serious consideration.

You can see Senator Dino saying ALLAH YA ISA to PDP in 2015. The same Dino saying ALLAH YA ISA to APC in 2019 and 2023. Spiritually, any Candidate that Dino becomes his or her Spokesman under PDP or APC, will never wins the election because he has used the same tongue to curse the Parties.

Question;

Sir, we read in some National Dailies prior to the elections that some Emirs threatened to assassinate you if Atiku wins the election in their States. How true is this statement?

Comrade Afiyo;

Absolutely true, two of them told our Co-ordinators that they will assassinate me if Atiku wins in their States. I personally called them to confirm the story and they affirmed it. These threats made me to relocate to one of the States and informed the Emir that I was in the State to ensure that Atiku wins in all the States. I called some of our Patrons who mobilised funds for us. When Atiku won in the State, I placed a call to the Emir who later invited me for a dinner in his palace. After the Dinner, he looked at me said “shege Batta jo”, and I smiled and said mi yeti barkama walla aibe”. And that was all.

Question;

Sir, we were also told that Tinubu’s camp is making overtures for you to join the team.

Comrade Afiyo;

For now, I will not join them until the final pronouncement by the Supreme court. In fact, the Northern Youth will never recognize Tinubu as President of Nigeria even after the swearing – in until the final pronouncement by the Supreme Court.

Question;

Are you saying that the inauguration ceremony should be stopped?

Comrade Afiyo:

Under common sense or literal reasoning, the inauguration should have been done after final pronouncement by the Court. But in a situation like this, one should not expect that to happened. Seriously, it is a major set- back to our Country. But I am quite sure that God’s will would prevail very soon.

Question

There was a story in one of the daily newspapers that you led a Team of investigation from UN and EU to visit the six geo- political zones and the Team was sponsored by one of your patrons.

Comrade Afiyo;

The Team was a fact-finding Team. I was just privileged to guide them.

Question;

What do we expect from you and your Forum from now?

Comrade Afiyo;

For now, let us allow the will of God to prevail. This is our only country that we can call our home. Enough of crisis and shedding of innocent blood. Let us all be law abiding and give maximum support to the security agencies. Sooner or later, Nigerians will definitely rejoice.

By : James Magaji

A group of purpose-driven youths from the North East Sub-region has vowed to resist the attempts of what it described as some selfish political elite from the Northeast have begun clandestine moves to scuttle the confirmation of the newly appointed Board management of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) Most especially the MD of the Commission and other new appointees of the board.

The group operating under the aegis of the North Eastern Youths Advocacy for Peace and Development (NEYAPAD) in a statement jointly signed by the national leadership of NEYAPAD comprising of Alh. Safiyanu Ya’u Existing, Hon. Abner Shittu, Hon. Tukura Kwayi, Engr. Suleiman Bakafada and Amb. Salahuddeen Shuaibu Planner in Gombe state noted that the move is not only unacceptable but a coup plot against the Nigerian Youths community.

The group said having followed meticulously the glowing antecedents of Engineer Hashidu right from his days at the Kano electricity distribution company (KEDCO) and until recently the Yola Electricity distribution company (YEDC) they are convinced that the accomplished technocrat now public servant has the needed skill and the know-how to drive the pilots seat in the efforts to restore the lost glory of the beleaguered North East Sub-region.

The group was also full of praises and adulations for the Executive Director of Humanitarian Affairs Hajiya Suwaiba Baba who they noted is a worthy ambassador of the women folk from Taraba state expressing optimism that the service-oriented Amazon will not falter in her new assignment.

While reaffirming its support to the new NEDC Management Team, the leadership of NEYAPAD Noted that the new management composition compromises of some of the best Brains in Nigeria’s private and public sector.

Speaking further the Leaders of the group vowed to activate the affiliate bodies of the organization which includes the National Youths Council of Nigeria to ground any politician or group of politicians from the sub-region further urging the Senate to rise to the occasion and not allow itself to be involved in the political war of any politician or group.

The Apex Youths organization dedicated to the Peace and Development of the geo-political zone reiterated its commitment to the growth, stability, prosperity, and peace of the sub-region calling on the political leaders not to involve themselves in acts and conducts that are inimical to the development of the society.
The group urged all aggrieved individuals to sheath their swords and give these energetic young men the chance to display their potential which will no doubt propel the region from its currently ravaged status to a revived developed region that will not only reunite displaced persons but attract investors from length and breadth of the world.

A Group Known as Professional for good governancen(PGG) has said With May 29, 2023 a few days away, and the inauguration of brand new State Executive Governors in 28 States of the Federation, they are concerned about the quality of leadership and the prospects before Nigerians.

Engr. Ogbonna Nwaiwu spokes person of the group while wishing the incoming Chief Executives the best and said It is trite to state that the group keenly followed the entire electoral process leading to the February 25th Presidential and National Assembly elections, and the March 18th Governorship and State Assembly elections and x-rayed the manifestos of the candidates and assessed their preparedness to improve the lot of the people, and to make their States better.

Engr Nwaiwu further stated that one of the candidates exuded an uncommon preparedness and clear-headedness throughout the period of Campaign, and has continued to inspire great hope even after the election.

He said the Governor Elect of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mbah comes to the Party with a bag full of ideas. And wished him well.

Part of the statement reads. ” Indeed, his extraordinary disposition to the task ahead was manifest from the start, from his campaign manifesto to the grasp of the issues and the challenges facing Enugu State; from his commitment to berthing a New Enugu State to the passion that saw him through the electoral process; and from his promise to light up Enugu, and provide Pipe borne within the first 180days of his stewardship, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah offers renewed hope to Ndi’Enugu.”

“There is a fervency in the land that calls for responsible and responsive watchmen at different leadership strata, it is that fervency that inspires our group to search out and align with Leaders who are ready to lead right. We are committed to supporting the prepared to do justice to the letters of their manifesto, whilst challenging those who apparently may not be very prepared to take a cue from those who like Barrister Peter Mbah shows the readiness to hit the ground running from the moment he takes the Oath of Office.”

“Clearly Ndi’Enugu are set for a new dawn, a new deal and a new day in leadership. It is palpable, we feel it, and we can see so much happening even before the Swearing-In of the incoming Governor of Enugu State Barrister Peter Mbah.”

“Are you aware that at his personal cost, facilities and materials necessary for the lighting up of strategic areas in the State, and materials relevant for the Pipe borne water he promised within his first 180 days are being assembled?”

“Are you aware that he has assembled a Team of Experts, Technocrats, Eggs heads, Professionals and Ideologues to give life and proactive strategic input to the details of his manifesto, a document he respects as proof his social contract with Ndi’Enugu?”

“Are you aware that Barrister Peter Mbah is not just a Technocrat in Politics, but a Lawyer, an accomplished Businessman and one who has the requisite governmental experience necessary to take Enugu State to a new pedestal. Are you aware that he is Competent, that he has the Capacity, that he is Credible, that he is Compassionate and that he has the Commitment necessary and relevant to build an Enugu State that works for all?”

“As the Peter Ndubuisi Mbah era beckons we wish Ndi’Enugu the best, and pray that the Almighty grant the incoming Governor the candour and the composure to deliver, and to make real the elaborate promises and projections he has on paper.”

“We wish Ndi’Enugu the best, and pray that across the States of the Federation leaders become responsible and responsive to the people.”

“As Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah takes over as the Governor of Enugu State on the 29th of May, 2023, we wish him well. And say Congratulations to Ndi’Enugu.”