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OndoDecides2024 :Gunshot Erupts in Ondo, Edo Border Community Amid Election

November 16, 2024 by admin

There was reported firing of gunshots by some unknown persons at Ofosun Village, an Ondo community at the boundary with Edo State. The incident, it was learnt, caused panic, forcing people to stay indoors to avoid being hit by stray bullets. A source in the village, identified simply as Dauda, who spoke to our correspondent on the phone said, “We don’t know who they are but they were firing gunshots into the air in some parts of the village since early morning. Ofosun is an Ondo village close to Benin in Edo State. No casualty, but people in the village are staying indoors.” It was not immediately clear what could have led to the incident, but the Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Festus Akingbaso, while commending voters’ turnout, expressed concerns over the alleged infiltration of some villages under the Idanre Local Government Area by hoodlums. Akingbaso, who spoke shortly after casting his vote at Imikan Ward 02, Unit 008, Idanre, commended INEC for the timely arrival of voting materials but alleged, “Information reaching me is that majority of the villages are filled with thugs allegedly brought in by the APC. At the moment, all the villages are occupied with thugs. Villages like Ofosun, Omifunfun and Allah are occupied. “There is a place called Igbepo where suspected thugs are in their numbers in Idanre Local Government Area. An incident happened in Ofosun where suspected thugs broke into the house of a party member to prevent him from voting. We were informed that there are plans not to allow people in the villages to vote. “I have reported the matter to the DPO and DSS. To my expectation, the security agencies have not been able to do anything.” Reacting to the allegation, the Ondo APC spokesperson, Mr Steve Otaloro, absolved his party of involving in any crime and demanded a thorough investigation into the allegations. He said, “I am in the situation room of APC right now. Let me say first some foremost, the person you mentioned is the deputy governorship candidate of Agboola Ajayi of the PDP. And if you recall PDP had a press conference two days ago alleging the kind of violence that happened in that place was by APC. “All the places he mentioned, was he on the ground in all those places? He was supposed to be at his polling unit. Even if he was called, he should have done proper diligence to be on the ground. They told us there was nothing like that. Voting is going on orderly, if they have any issue with that, they just want to create an issue out of nothing. “As I speak, no member of our political party is going out to vote as a member, everybody has become electorate. Whatever violence that is happening, they should investigate it properly, but I can assure you it is not from our members. How will you infiltrate all those local areas, these are routes and farm settlements? Why will our members infiltrate such places? That is not true. “More often than not, maybe their plans were burst, and that was why he is coming up with this allegation. And since morning, this election has started peacefully, they should allow it to end peacefully. We as a political party, are committed to peace, and we have told our people to allow peace to reign in all their activities in the course of this election.” When contacted, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, said she was in transit. She also said the incident had not been reported to her. Punch

Former Ebonyi Commissioner Leaves PDP To Join APC

November 14, 2024 by admin

A former Commissioner in Ebonyi State, Abia Onyike, has left the Peoples Democratic Party and joined the ruling All Progressives Cong ress in the state. Onyike served as the Special Adviser on Media Relations under former Governor Sam Egwu and as Commissioner for Information during the administration of Martin Elechi. Onyike, a former Deputy National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, announced his decision to leave the party that had supported him at a ceremony in Owutu Edda Ward, located in the Edda Local Government Area of the state, on Wednesday. In a statement on Thursday, Onyike said he was joining the APC because of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s perceived restoration of good governance. He said, “My decision to join the APC is because of the need to build a solid alliance of support for Governor Nwifuru, who has taken steps to restore good governance and inclusive politics in Ebonyi State. “Politics is local, and we are driven by our own developmental aspirations in our state. I am joining other progressive forces in the state to sustain and consolidate the current peaceful atmosphere prevalent in the state under Governor Nwifuru.” The Chairman of the APC in Owutu Edda Ward, Mr. Oko Ogbuagu, expressed the party’s happiness in welcoming Onyike to its fold. “Onyike is a tested hand. He is a man of the people, and his entry into our party will enhance its fortunes in future elections,” he said.

Okpebholo Takes Over In Edo, Oshiomhole’s Son Makes Cabinet

November 13, 2024 by admin

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo and the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, were sworn in on Tuesday in Benin City. Following his victory in the state governorship election held on September 21, 2024, Okpebholo officially took over from former Governor Godwin Obaseki. Amid heavy crowd and security presence, Okpebholo, accompanied by his two daughters, took the oath of office and allegiance at 1:00 pm administered by the state Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa. Earlier, Idahosa, accompanied by his wife, mounted the podium to take the oath as the deputy governor of the state. The governor later went ahead to inspect the guard of honour as well as a parade by the officers and men of the Nigeria Police. Supporters of the party at the stadium cheered all through the oath-taking exercise meant to usher in the new administration in the state. Speaking after his swearing-in, Okpebholo unveiled a five-point agenda for the development of the state. In his inaugural speech, he pledged to prioritise security, infrastructure, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education. The governor declared war on criminals, saying the era of incessant kidnapping and other violent crimes was over. “Our citizens are a top priority for us. To achieve this, we shall implement programmes carefully outlined in my five-point agenda, designed to grow robust economic growth and improve the lives of our people. “We will not betray this confidence you have reposed in me and the Deputy Governor, Rt. Honourable Dennis Idahosa,” Okpebholo said. Bemoaning incessant cases of kidnapping and other crimes, the governor said his administration would be firm in dealing with criminals and improve the security of the state. “For a long time now, our people have become victims of kidnapping and other violent crimes. “To end this ugly situation, we will be firm in dealing with criminals and improve the security of our land, so that farming and other business activities will flourish again. “The deplorable condition of our roads has made it difficult for people to move from one part of the state to another. “Our policy to develop road infrastructure is targeted at constructing roads, drainages, and bridges to ease transportation for all. “We shall immediately commence work to make the roads passable again. “We are also ready to partner with the Federal Government, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, those in the diaspora, and other stakeholders, to develop our state across all sectors,” he said. The governor promised that the new administration would support small businesses and market women with soft loans. “Our teeming youthful population will not be left out. We shall support them in acquiring relevant skills for self-empowerment. “My administration shall immediately swing into action to recruit teachers and rebuild the deplorable classrooms. “Tertiary education will be strengthened in many ways, too, to ensure quality education,” Okpebholo added. He added, “Fellow citizens, my administration is ready to link communities that have not yet been connected to the national grid to ensure that they have electricity. “Our traditional institution shall be given the necessary support to play their role as custodians of our rich cultural heritage. “It is in recognition of this that my administration shall support the decision of the Federal Government to uphold the Oba of Benin as the exclusive owner of the returned artefacts, which were looted by British colonial forces during the Benin Massacre of 1897,” he said. He promised to work closely with other arms of government to strengthen democracy and good governance in the state. The governor also announced a panel of inquiry into the remote cause of the failure to inaugurate 14 members-elect of the House of Assembly in 2019. Okpebholo names new appointees The governor appointed Dr Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, son of the former governor of the state, Adams Oshiomhole, as the Commissioner for Health-designate. In a press statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Tuesday, the governor also appointed Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to State Government and a former member of the House of Representatives, Samson Osagie, as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice-designate. Cyril’s academic journey began at St. Anne’s Primary School, followed by Command Secondary School. He later pursued higher education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery. He enrolled at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, where he obtained a Master of Science in Public Health, majoring in Environmental Health, Toxicology, and Disaster Management. His academic pursuits continued at Harvard University, Boston, where he underwent postgraduate training in Clinical Research and at Queen Mary University, London, where he studied Gastroenterology. Ikhilor was born on the 6th of August 1980 at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. He attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he obtained an LL.B in 2008 (Second class Upper Division). In 2009, he obtained a B.L. (Second Class Upper Division) at the Nigerian Law School and was enrolled as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In 2017, Ikhilor proceeded to acquire his Masters degree in Telecommunications Law (LL.M) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He has over 11 years of experience in legislative drafting, parliamentary administration, lawmaking procedures and processes, constitutional drafting and amendment, and general legislative governance issues working in various capacities at the National Assembly. In 2019, he was appointed a Consultant to the House of Representatives on the review of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, where he had been closely analysing and reviewing matters on gender equity, human rights, strengthening institutions of government and creating efficient and transparent processes and systems to deliver good governance. Also in 2019, he was appointed as Senior Special Assistant and later Special Adviser to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives who also doubled as the first Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament. In May 2022, he was assigned to act as the Chief of Staff to the Deputy Speaker of the House of … Read more

Full List: Trump Announces Key Cabinet Picks, Appoints Wiles As Chief Of Staff

November 12, 2024 by admin

Following his narrow victory in the November 5 election, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced a series of cabinet nominees and appointees who will form the core team for his second term. These initial choices, covering areas from environmental policy to border control, reflect Trump’s focus on returning to many of the “America First” principles that shaped his first presidency. Trump’s administration is set to begin on January 20, 2025, and he has emphasised that these appointments will steer the nation towards what he calls a “renewed American strength.” Here is a list of Trump’s appointments so far: Environmental Protection Agency Administrator: Lee Zeldin Lee Zeldin, a former New York Congressman and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, has been selected to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Zeldin, 44, has previously voiced scepticism towards the Paris Agreement, advocating for a version that imposes stricter standards on all signatory nations. In his acceptance message, he emphasised goals to “restore U.S. energy dominance” and strengthen the automotive industry while upholding standards for clean air and water. National Security Advisor: Mike Waltz Trump’s choice for National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, brings a military-focused approach to U.S. foreign policy. Waltz, a U.S. Army Green Beret and Congressional representative for Florida, has served in Afghanistan and written extensively about his military experience. Waltz’s addition signals a focus on defence readiness, especially concerning U.S.-China relations. As part of the House China Task Force, Waltz has previously identified key threats and advocated for proactive measures to counter Chinese influence. White House Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles Susie Wiles, known for her significant role in Trump’s 2024 campaign, is appointed as the White House Chief of Staff. Wiles, 67, has a long history in Republican politics, including advising Florida Governor Ron DeSantis during his initial gubernatorial campaign. Trump acknowledged Wiles’ influence during his victory speech, referring to her as “the Ice Baby,” a moniker that reflects her reserved yet determined approach. Border Czar: Tom Homan Former ICE Director Tom Homan will reprise a prominent role within Trump’s administration as the newly appointed Border Czar. Known for his tenure under Trump’s first administration, Homan, 62, has advocated for strict immigration enforcement. Trump has vowed that Homan will oversee the “largest deportation operation in U.S. history” as part of a campaign to curb illegal immigration. Ambassador to the United Nations: Elise Stefanik Elise Stefanik, a Republican Congresswoman from New York, has been named Ambassador to the United Nations. At 40, Stefanik is a vocal figure in the GOP, known for her questioning of university officials during congressional hearings on antisemitism. Stefanik’s appointment aligns with Trump’s goals for reforming U.S. foreign relations, including his commitment to ending the conflict in Ukraine. Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy: Stephen Miller Stephen Miller, a key architect of Trump’s first administration immigration policies, returns as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy. Miller’s focus on stringent immigration measures and American sovereignty has been a hallmark of his advocacy, both in government and through his America First Legal Foundation. His recent rally speech emphasising “America is for Americans” underscores the administration’s planned focus on restrictive immigration policies. As Trump’s team begins to take shape, the emphasis on strong national defence, limited immigration, and a recalibrated approach to climate policy reflects the values of Trump’s base, signalling a return to many of the policies that defined his first term. The National Post reports that further appointments and policy outlines are expected in the coming weeks as the administration prepares for its January inauguration. Punch

Ondo Gov Poll: Banks Run Out Of Cash, Customers Blame Political Parties

November 10, 2024 by admin

With just a week to the Ondo State governorship election, residents are feeling the pinch of severe cash shortages in commercial banks across the state. Sunday PUNCH gathered that politicians from the major political parties had been making large withdrawals from banks and stockpiling cash to buy votes. Our correspondent learnt that customers who wanted to withdraw money over the counter were given less than what they requested because of the unavailability of cash in commercial banks across the state. A source in a new generation bank disclosed that the politicians had been withdrawing millions of naira from banks in the last one week. They were alleged to be colluding with bank managers to make the withdrawal easy. The source said, “In the past few weeks, there has been a high flow of cash in the state because politicians, particularly members of the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party have colluded with bank managers to withdraw huge amounts of money daily. When the politicians ‘settle’ the bankers, they permit them to withdraw as much as they want. I can tell you authoritatively that the politicians are withdrawing millions of naira in cash from the banks, with the assistance of the managers. “That is why we don’t have much cash to give customers. If you go to banks now, little cash is available in all their branches across the state. They are withdrawing money for their logistics in the campaigns and also keeping the money to buy votes on election day.” Some bank customers, who spoke to our correspondent, said they had been finding it difficult to withdraw money across the counter. While blaming politicians, the residents stated that the bankers informed them that they had little cash available in their branches. A customer, who identified himself as Tunde, said he was disappointed to reach one of the commercial banks in Akure on Thursday only to be informed that he could not withdraw more than N10,000 from the counter. He added that the bankers advised him to go out and withdraw from the Point-of-Sale machines outside. “I was surprised that when I got to my bank on Thursday to withdraw N50,000, the man at the counter told me that cash was not available and that they couldn’t give me more than N2,000 cash. I was angry and I asked him the reason; they told me they didn’t get much cash from the CBN (Central Bank of Nigeria),” the customer lamented. Another bank customer told Sunday PUNCH that it had been a problem getting cash from the banks in Ondo State. He said he was given the sum of N10,000 from his bank recently when he wanted to withdraw N30,000. Later, he was asked to go and use PoS for the remaining. “I use one of the new generation banks. I got there to withdraw N30,000 cash to settle some bills but I was told I could only be given N10,000 as the highest I could withdraw from the counter. I asked the reason for this, but the only answer I got was little cash was available in the branch for customers,” he added. A manager of one of the branches of a commercial bank, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the development. He said little cash was left in the banks for customers to withdraw after politicians mopped up huge amounts of money from the banks. The source said, “As a matter of fact, even before now, the amount of money in circulation is very low generally, not only in Ondo State, but there is a way we adequately manage the available money given to us. That is not known to the public. For instance, the CBN in Akure has mandated all the banks in its domain that you cannot withdraw (from the CBN) more than twice within two weeks, unlike before that we will go there Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to withdraw cash. But now, they are dealing with us two times a week. “Then, on the withdrawal by politicians, it is not a lie. It is really happening. It is not limited to only one bank but virtually all the commercial banks in the state. There are some locations that per week, they mop up close to N300m, N200m. You can see that when that one is gone from a branch, there is no way you can serve an ordinary man who wants to withdraw N50,000, N100,000. It is very unfortunate.” Another source alleged that the chieftains of all political parties approached banks for cash, but the ruling APC and the PDP were most responsible for the cash crisis in Ondo banks. “They withdraw huge sums to keep for vote-buying on the election day,” he added. Reacting, the Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr Kennedy Peretei, denied the allegations, saying the main opposition party did not have the money to buy votes. He said the popularity of its candidate and that of the party were enough to win the poll. “The PDP does not need to buy votes to win this election. The antecedents and scorecards of the governorship candidate, Agboola Ajayi, and his deputy can easily see us through the election. Therefore, the allegation is not true as far as the PDP is concerned. However, l cannot speak for the APC which may be relying on vote-buying to cover up their poor performance in government,” he stated. The Director of Media and Publicity of the APC, Mr Steve Otaloro, also denied the allegation, saying it was to tarnish the image of the party and its candidate, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Otaloro said, “The claim that the APC chieftains have withdrawn large sums of cash from banks to buy votes in the upcoming governorship election on November 16 is a desperate attempt to tarnish our party’s image. Our party, the APC, is committed to conducting free and fair elections, and we have always adhered to the electoral laws and guidelines. We believe in the … Read more

2027: Hon Segelu Supports Call On Makinde To Contest Presidency

November 7, 2024 by admin

A gubernatorial aspirant under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 elections, Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu has reiterated his support for the call on the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to vie for the presidential seat in 2027. According to Hon Segelu, Makinde represents a generational shift in Nigerian politics, resonating with the younger population. As one of Nigeria’s prominent PDP leaders, the Germany-based business tycoon, politician and IT professional, has established a nationwide network that could support a presidential bid. He said although Governor Makinde has not declared to partake in the 2027 presidential race, he is widely recognized for his commitment to public service and developmental governance in Southwest Nigeria. He further noted that it would be a significant milestone for the PDP, a party increasingly focused on youth-driven leadership and change, if Makinde decides to pursue higher office like the presidency in 2027. The governorship hopeful applauded the incumbent Oyo helmsman for generously donating a secretariat to the South West PDP. He said Makinde’s leadership in celebrating the contributions of past leaders dedicated to serving the people was laudable. “I would like to commend Governor Makinde on the recent commissioning of the South West PDP Party Secretariat, named in honour of the late Hon. Soji Adagunodo, a former Osun State Chairman and National Vice Chairman of our party. “It is gratifying to see that our amiable governor is fulfilling his honour the late South West Zonal Leader with a new edifice as the secretariat of the PDP in the southwestern zone of the country, for his contributions to the growth of the party,” Hon Segelu said. Son of a founding member of the PDP who was the first Executive Chairman of the Party in Oyo State gruesomely murdered by assassins, late Hon. Olusegun Moses Akintola Oladimeji, Hon Olayinka Segelu, noted that “His decision to dedicate this secretariat to Late Hon. Soji Adagunodo, known for his unwavering dedication to the PDP, is highly commendable. Naming this building after such a prominent leader honours Adagunodo’s memory and serves as a reminder of the values of service, loyalty, and commitment to the party’s mission. “The newly commissioned South West PDP Secretariat, with its modern infrastructure and strategic location, is a valuable asset for our party in the South West region. This initiative exemplifies Governor Makinde’s visionary approach to strengthening the PDP’s organizational framework and fostering unity. “By investing in this facility, Governor Makinde has established a dedicated space for collaboration, planning, and capacity-building among PDP leaders and members in the South West. His commitment to the growth and unity of our party is commendable.” Hon. Olayinka Segelu expressed confidence that Governor Makinde’s actions will inspire all party members to remain loyal, dedicated, and willing to make sacrifices for the PDP. “It’s crucial that we recognize and honor past leaders who dedicated themselves to the party’s ideals, fostering a culture of respect and continuity within the party. Late Hon. Adagunodo was indeed a bridge-builder whose legacy endured, and this monument stands as a testament to his greatness. The secretariat will undoubtedly enhance grassroots political engagement, unity, and growth within the PDP, a remarkable achievement made possible by Governor Seyi Makinde’s generosity,” he further remarked. Hon. Segelu encouraged all party members to fully utilize the resources available at the new secretariat to pave the way for a stronger future for the PDP.

2027: Nobody Can Set Agenda For Me – Makinde

November 3, 2024 by admin

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Saturday said nobody apart from himself can set an agenda for him on what to do next with his political career. Apparently reacting to insinuations and permutations of him declaring for the Presidential race in 2027, Makinde said he disagreed with those accusing the ruling party of interfering with other political parties in the country so as not to have a formidable opposition in the next election. Rather, he charged leaders of the leading opposition party across the board to look inward and see how they can work together and salvage the country, adding that the next election will be between the ruling party and Nigerians. He noted that the next elections will not even be about APC versus PDP, urging members of the PDP to do their bit to unite the party, unite the base, and let the people of Nigeria speak. Makinde disclosed this while commissioning the newly built Olusoji Adagunodo Southwest Zonal Secretariat. He was joined at the event by the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Iliya Damagum; Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State; former Governor Samuel Ortom (Benue); Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia); members of the National Working Committee of the party, other leaders from the Zonal and country at large. The building personally funded by Governor Makinde is named after the late Olusoji Adagunodo, a former Chairman of the party in the Southwest. The Nation reports that Makinde had on the death of Adagunodo promised to build a structure and name it after him, to keep the memory alive. He also at the event announced the appointment of the son of the late Adagunodo as his Special Adviser on Regional Integration. Speaking, Makinde thanked his counterpart from Osun State, Governor Adeleke, and a former Zonal Chairman, Dr Eddy Olafeso among others for showing political maturity and understanding in honoring the memory of the late leader by attending the event. He urged all party faithful to shun any form of discord and disunity that is hindering the party from achieving his mandate in providing the alternative needed by the people. Nation

Ondo Guber: I’ll Deliver My Best If Elected, Aiyedatiwa Vows

October 25, 2024 by admin

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has vowed to give his best, if elected in the November 16 governorship election. Aiyedatiwa also pledged his unwavering commitment to improving residents’ quality of life. Speaking during his campaign tour to Ifedore Local Government Area, the All Progressives Congress, APC, the candidate said his administration would not deviate from giving the people the best. He added that his administration will continue to prioritise healthcare and Infrastructure development. The governor, who noted the demands of the people of Ifedore in healthcare facilities, road construction and infrastructural development, pledged that the right steps were being taken to address the situation. Ifedore needs The traditional ruler of Igbaraoke, Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, listed the needs of the community to include rehabilitation of roads, which he described as “the lifeline of our community, connecting our people to opportunities. Its rehabilitation will greatly enhance economic activities.” He noted the challenges with healthcare, revealing that the community’s basic Healthcare centre lacked resident doctors and personnel. “Your swift intervention in matters affecting our traditional institution shows your respect for us. This is why you have earned our trust. “The road network across this local government requires urgent attention to improve access and facilitate development “We need access to reliable healthcare. The absence of a resident doctor has left us vulnerable for too long. “We are in dire need of water, while flooding has been a recurring problem. We seek your intervention to address these concerns.” Aiyedatiwa, however, expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their blessings and support, emphasizing the importance of traditional rulers in shaping public opinion. Aiyedatiwa’s pledge He said: “Your endorsement carries great weight with the people. When you speak, they listen and follow. We will double our efforts to ensure that all your requests are addressed promptly, our government remains focused on delivering lasting infrastructure and improved services that benefit every citizen. “I am assuring you that we will address them promptly. We remain committed to improving infrastructure and delivering projects that will uplift every corner of this state.” The governor said that his administration’s development agenda is people-centred and promised that all ongoing projects across all sectors will continue to reflect the priorities of the people. “Our government belongs to all of you, and your welfare is our priority. Together, we will achieve more, I urge the whole local government to stay united and maintain their support throughout the campaign and beyond.”

LG Poll: Kaduna Residents Comply With Movement Restrictions

October 19, 2024 by admin

Kaduna State residents on Saturday complied with the movement restriction imposed by the state government to ensure peaceful and orderly conduct of the local government elections. The usually bustling streets of Kaduna metropolis were deserted as eligible voters cast their ballots across the state. Shops and fuel stations were shut to residents. PUNCH Online reports that the Kaduna State Security Council had announced a restriction of movement from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024, to prevent potential security breaches. The commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, had explained that the restriction was necessary to guarantee the success of the elections. “The restriction of movement is aimed at preventing any individual or group from disrupting the electoral process. We want to ensure that the elections are conducted peacefully and without any incidents,” Aruwan had said. Residents heeded the warning, staying off the streets while those eligible and willing to exercise their civic responsibility went to their voting centers to cast their votes. However, some voting centres experienced delays, with officials and materials yet to arrive as of noon. A troubled voter lamented, “Up till now, no SIECOM officials and voting materials for votes to commence. We have been waiting since morning, and it’s disappointing to see that the officials are not here yet.” James Alechenu, another voter, expressed frustration over the delay. “They (SIECOM) know what they are doing. The next thing we will hear is that the ruling All Progressives Congress has cleared all the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.” Despite these challenges, the elections took place across 255 wards and 23 local government councils. Road users, especially those travelling from other parts of the state, were stopped and searched by police. However, there was scant police presence in major areas such as Barnawa, Narayi, and along the Kachia roads. The elections are crucial for the state’s development, and the government is committed to ensuring their success. The security situation was generally peaceful, with no major incidents reported. Punch

“I Won’t Run Away From Vampires”- Nyesom Wike Declares On PDP Factions

October 17, 2024 by admin

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, has declared that he won’t run away from what he termed as “vampires” within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This declaration comes amidst a deepening crisis that has split the party into factions, with Wike at the centre of the storm. According to reports from Punch Newspapers, the PDP is currently embroiled in a fierce power struggle that has led to the emergence of two distinct factions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The crisis has its roots in the ongoing conflict between Wike and the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike’s faction, led by the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has taken controversial steps that have angered other party members. These actions include securing approval for contentious PDP Congresses in Rivers State and postponing a crucial National Executive Committee meeting. In response to criticism from other PDP governors, Wike issued a stark warning on August 31, threatening to disrupt activities in their states if they continued to interfere in Rivers State matters. This threat was met with strong condemnation from the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. The situation escalated further when Wike’s faction suspended two key party officials – the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Governor of Rivers State, has declared that he won’t run away from what he termed as “vampires” within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This declaration comes amidst a deepening crisis that has split the party into factions, with Wike at the centre of the storm. According to reports from Punch Newspapers, the PDP is currently embroiled in a fierce power struggle that has led to the emergence of two distinct factions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). The crisis has its roots in the ongoing conflict between Wike and the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike’s faction, led by the party’s acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has taken controversial steps that have angered other party members. These actions include securing approval for contentious PDP Congresses in Rivers State and postponing a crucial National Executive Committee meeting. In response to criticism from other PDP governors, Wike issued a stark warning on August 31, threatening to disrupt activities in their states if they continued to interfere in Rivers State matters. This threat was met with strong condemnation from the PDP Governors’ Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. The situation escalated further when Wike’s faction suspended two key party officials – the National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.