Politics Archives - Page 18 of 19

Bayelsa APC Chieftain Set To Seek Contempt Of Court Action Against Sylva’s Loyalists

October 16, 2024 by admin

A Bayelsa APC chieftain, Barr. Blankson, has vowed to institute contempt of court proceedings against party members who defied a January 20, 2023 judgment nullifying the party’s wards, local government areas, and state congresses. The judgment, delivered by Justice I.T. Cocodia, restrained APC and its agents from parading party leaders/officers in Bayelsa State. Blankson displayed a copy of the judgment, emphasizing its implications. Those targeted include the House of Assembly member representing Southern Ijaw Constituency IV, Hon. Selekaye Victor-Ben, the acclaimed chairman of APC in Bayelsa State, Dr. Dennis Otiotio, and other chieftains. Blankson while addressing a press conference in Yenagoa on Monday, faulted the claims by the state lawmaker that the case was abandoned, emphasized that Justice I. T. Cocodia delivered a judgement on the matter on January 20th 2023 in favour of his client , Mr Alex Blankson. Displaying a copy of the court judgement, Blankson said: “I saw on the social media yesterday, in fact, last night, a press briefing organized by the purported APC state chairman led by Dr Dennis Otiotio and Hon Victor-Ben to the fact that there is no pending appeal. “They said that the case was to stop the party from producing candidates and as that was not achieved, the matter has been abandoned. “You see, it’s a sad commentary, I’m feeling very sad to hear that from one who is supposed to be an assembly member, who should know the workings of the court. “The court delivered judgment. No body appealed . This is the full judgment and if you permit me, I will read just the last paragraph of the holding of the court, so you know the consequences of the actions that these people have taken. The last paragraph says: “An Order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants(APC and co) its privies and or agents from parading any person as a Ward, Local Government and State Party Leaders/Officers in Bayelsa State, pending the determination of Motion on Notice and suit No: YHC/107/2021 is also hereby granted. Dated this 20″ day of January, 2023.” “So the implication is that there is an existing court judgement and a restraining order barring these persons, including Dr Dennis Otiotio and the entire excos and party officials that was produced by that Congress. “And so what this means is that they are in contempt. They appealed it and file for a stay of proceedings and later withdrew the stay of proceedings and so if like he said that we abandoned the matter, if that is his understanding, that is sad. If you appeal and the respondent does not respond to your appeal its means that whatever you are praying, the court will grants it because there is no counter appeal. “We have taken steps to institute contempt proceedings against everybody that flouted the judgment. You see, when people take laws into their hands as if there is no law, sometimes it’s good to tell the public that there’s actually law, the law actually exists. “And so when there is court judgment and you are asked to do a particular thing and you refrain or you decided to do the opposition, the law will take its effect. So for us, we won’t make any further comments on this matter again.” Barr. Blackson further faulted the call by the purported Chairman of the APC, Barr. Dennis Otiotio for the State Governors, Gov. Douye Diri to call one of his Commissioner to order over his alleged involvement in the crisis, saying such call should be directed to Otiotio and few others who have violated the Court order and allegedly violated the santity of the court by attacking the litigant and others who supported the suit against the party. He said “Talking about perpetuating violence, Otiotio is the number one man to be arrested , you can recall that in 2023 this case was filed before Justice Aganaba and when it was time to deliver judgement , Otiotio mobilized thugs to the court and attacked the judge”. “I was equally there and I was also attacked , it was by the help of other people that I was able to come out of the court. Some of the hoodlums were arrested and taken to court but one of them is still at large.” “So the police is doing their job diligently if people like Otiotio a senior lawyer could desecrate the court, who is more of a violent person than him. The Commissioner for Power has not done anything, it is on record in this state that a court of law was desecrated because of this matter.” “So when we talk of violence, Otiotio is the one to be arrested and needs to be arrested. I’m challenging him, I have records because they ones that were arrested also told the police how they were mobilized down to the court, so I challenge him to deny it.”

PDP Crisis: Yayari Mohammed Takes Over As Acting National Chairman

October 13, 2024 by admin

Ahmed Yayari Mohammed has officially assumed duty as the Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In his inaugural address to party members made available to the media in Abuja on Sunday, Mohammed expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received, acknowledging the urgent need for introspection within the party. He emphasised that recent internal conflicts and a deviation from core values have hindered the PDP’s effectiveness as a formidable opposition force in Nigerian politics. “Regrettably, we must admit that we have not satisfactorily carried out the critical role expected of a virile opposition in a democracy,” Mohammed stated, calling for a return to the principles of equity, fairness, and justice that underpinned the party’s founding. Mohammed’s appointment is the latest in the crisis besetting the main opposition coming at a crucial time when the PDP is seeking to revitalize its structure and restore confidence among its members, particularly the youth. The factional chairman outlined his commitment to adhering strictly to the party’s constitution and ensuring fair treatment for all members, regardless of their position. Looking ahead, Mohammed announced plans to convene the long-awaited National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on October 24, 2024. He urged the North Central Zone, entitled to nominate a replacement for former National Chairman Iyorchia Ayu, to act promptly in forwarding its nominee for NEC consideration.

2024 Igbo Ora Twins Festival: Oyo Targets Another UNESCO Cultural Heritage Designation,Promises To Complete Ido-Eruwa Road Construction

October 12, 2024 by admin

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed the hope that in line with his administration’s zeal to expand the state’s economy through tourism, the Igbo Ora Festival of Twins and Multiple Births will be promoted to gain world acclaim as a UNESCO World Heritage. Governor Makinde stated this on Saturday, while speaking at the annual World Twins Festival, themed; “Twinning for Love, Unity and National Economic Reorientation,” held at the Methodist Grammar School, Igbo Ora. The governor said that his government would continue to promote the festival because of its uniqueness and importance to Ibarapaland and Oyo State in general. He added that his government would also accelerate efforts on developing necessary infrastructure to support the drive, stating that the government would double its efforts to ensure that the ongoing rehabilitation of Ido/Eruwa road is completed. Governor Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, pledged his government’s continuous support for the festival to attract more investors, stating that this would be achieved through improvement of facilities and creation of an enabling environment needed for tourism to thrive in the state. The event was organised by the Igbo Ora Community Foundation and Ibarapa Central Local Government in conjunction with Oyo State Government and the Twins World Creation Intercontinental. Governor Makinde said: “What we are doing today is something that is worth celebrating. You can see that we have a lot of people who came here from far and wide for this event. “Research has shown that 10 per cent of births in Igbo Ora are twins. We should ask ourselves why it is like that. But if we know that such is what God has blessed this town with, we are supposed to guard that uniqueness jealously. “We should also know that twins are special children from God. It is the same foods they eat here that are being eaten in other places but they have their uniqueness of multiple births in Ibarapaland. “The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism has said a lot about this event and I want to tell you that Oyo State government is making efforts to upgrade the celebration of this event to UNESCO standard, which will make people come all the way from America, Asia and other continents of the world. So, the arrangement is ongoing.” Speaking further, the governor charged parents of twins and multiple births to guide and take care of them well towards attaining their goals in life, while he also encouraged the immediate community to embrace and celebrate the festival by creating a permanent venue that would serve as a monument for the important festival. “Also, we have to, as parents of twins, guide them well towards attaining their goals in life. “I also want to encourage this community, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, to look for a parcel of land that will serve as a venue for this celebration subsequently. They will come and inspect and the government will give necessary support so that we won’t continue to make use of a field. “Part of what will add to the colour of this celebration is to have good roads that lead to the venue of the event, which would encourage those coming for the event to have a smooth experience on their way. “We are working on the Ido-Eruwa Road. I passed the route and I paid attention to the current state of the road. I can assure you that we will redouble our efforts to ensure that the road is fixed quickly,” the governor added. In his address, the chairman on the occasion and Member representing Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Abass Adigun, said “the annual festival does not only showcase the premium placed on culture and tradition by the Oyo State Government but also shows the values and the uniqueness of Igbo Ora Community in the state and all over the African continent.” He lauded Governor Makinde for his efforts in putting the festival on the global map, thereby attracting tourists and investors to develop the economy of the state. Also in his address, the Olu of Igbo Ora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, appreciated Governor Makinde for promoting the twins festival as a platform for tourism and an avenue for the expansion of the state’s economy. Oyo State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatunbosun, said the festival is unique, as it has incorporated twins from all the geopolitical zones in the state, with the target of entering the Guinness Book of World Records and also being enlisted by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. He added that the festival has promoted culture and tourism in the state, urging residents of Ibarapaland to embrace the festival and accommodate all the states in Nigeria. In their speech, the Twins Festival Consultants, Ambassador Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye, also appreciated Governor Makinde for being a lover and promoter of creative and innovative cultural adventures and tourism. Giving the vote of thanks, the Member representing Ibarapa Central/Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, in the House of Representatives, Dr Anthony Adepoju, expressed optimism that the twins festival would soon be on the global map to attract more investors to boost the economy of the state. Highlights of the event include unveiling of twins’ statue at Igbotikale Roundabout; Igbo Ora Twins’ Parade; Twins’ Talent Show and Twins’ Appellation, among others. The event had in attendance traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and top government functionaries, among others.

More Trouble For Damagum As Engr Utaan Moves To Replace Ayu As PDP National Chairmanship

October 9, 2024 by admin

The battle to reclaim the National Chairmanship position by the North Central Zone of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken another dimension, as Engr. Conrad Terhide Utaan, has indicated interest to serve out the tenure of the zone. Recall that since Senator Iyorcha Ayu was sacked by the court as PDP National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, has occupied the position as the party Acting National Chairman for more than a year now. Section 47(6) of the PDP Constitution expressly stated that “where a vacancy occurs in any of the offices of the party, the Executive Committee at the appropriate level shall appoint another person from the area or zone where the officer originated from to serve out the tenure of the officer.” Interacting with newsmen on Wednesday while opposing the continued stay of Damagum as the Acting National Chairman, Engr. Utaan expressed concern that Damagum was becoming more or less like the substantive National Chairman as against the party Constitution. He said: “What came to us in the North Central was the national chairman of the PDP, and then all of a sudden, we discovered that Damagun was becoming more or less a substantive chairman. And then nobody was saying anything, you know, so again, I took it upon myself to give it a challenge. You know, for my zone, it happens when Muazu left as the national chairman and the chairman goes to another zone, the North East, battled until the chairmanship was return to the Northeast. “And this our case should not be an exception. The Chairman of PDP is for the North Central Zone. If the party, or the National Executive Committee of the party decides that Damagum should be a substantive chairman, you should come out and tell North Central, okay, the Deputy Chairman North that Damagu was before he ascended to position of the chairman becomes vacant. So North Central brings the replacement, North East cannot have both deputy national chairman, national chairman at the same time when we North Central are left with nothing, you know.” Utaan warned of the implication of denying North Central its rightful position, adding, “the APC, as much as we hate to take it, may just stroll into another term. If the PDP continues this way, that is the reason why we are in this and by the way, this term ends in November 2025, I’m not running to be chairman for four years. I’m running to complete the term of the North Central, the term of Benue, the term of Benue North West Central district, even if it’s for two days, it belongs to the North Central. It belongs to Benue. It belongs to zone B of Benue. It’s ours, even if it’s for two days. “Common justice requires that the PDP should return back to the North Central, what truly belongs to the North Central. Political interest has kept us where we are, but we are making headway. The recent ward local government and state congresses across the country has thrown up a group of young people, who are going to place a demand on this party, and look, this process does not require a national convention. That’s not what the law says, it’s for Benue to approach the North Central Zonal Executive Committee of the party with a replacement. “Now that Iyorchia Ayu is no longer the Chairman, this position was zoned to us. This is our consensus candidate for Benue. And it will be upon the Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) of the party, in North Central to present that name, to the NEC of the party on the 24th of October. 2024.” Utaan disclosed that he is more than prepare to occupy the position of the party National Chairman, stressing, “look I’m ready to engage anybody, who wants to replace Iyorchia Ayu in an open debate, trust me, I’ll floor them. “I have what it takes, not only academically or intellectually, but I have a real feel, the pulse of the people on the street, ordinary members of the PDP can connect to me better than any former national secretary, any former governor or former senator or former minister or former anything to connect with me better. “I have met with the leaders of this party across all strata. I’ve met with my party at the local level, I’ve met with them at the state level last week, I addressed the North Central Executive Committee of the party. My message resonated with them. “Probably I have brought a new fire that will awaken the North Central, and by extension, awaken the PDP, yeah, our campaign may be slow, unassuming, because, ofcourse, we are new names. We are new face. It is my desire to lead this party with humility, with sacrifice. Independent NG

Oyo Speaker, Ogundoyin Holds Strategic Meetings With Ibarapa East Constituents To Strengthen PDP Ties

October 7, 2024 by admin

By Adeleke Maria In a move to strengthen the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) in Ibarapa East Local Government and enhance unity and cooperation amongst members, the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has held a series of strategic meetings with leaders and members of the party. In the last four days, Hon. Ogundoyin met with PDP stakeholders and constituents at different venues across Eruwa and Lanlate towns. These meetings brought together key party leaders, including Chief Adewale Atanda Alase, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, Alh. Kasali Morakinyo, Chief Abegunde, Dr. Adedokun Daniel, Alh Adebisi Sikiru (Party Chairman), Alh Kamorudeen Adeyemi (Senatorial Chairman), and Mrs. Adebisi Yetunde, among others. Hon. Ogundoyin emphasized the importance of unity, urging members to prioritize cooperation and avoid spreading false information that could harm the party’s reputation. He stressed that the party’s strength lies in its ability to work together towards a common goal and cautioned PDP members in the Local Government against unnecessary bickering over sharing of party political posts and positions. According to the Speaker, if PDP in the Local Government wishes to remain stronger and consolidate on its political gains, it must close ranks, speak with one voice, and never allow internal wranglings to fester beyond control. While admitting that there will occasionally be misunderstandings and unnecessary instigation of crisis by some unscrupulous individuals, the Speaker urged the leadership of the party in the council to always engage in dialogue and consultation in resolving issues. “It was a 4-day productive meetings and engagements with leaders, elders and party faithful in Ibarapa East Local Government. I am happy that PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government has again laid the foundation for a stronger and a more united front. The meetings were productive, with various issues raised and addressed. “There were clarifications and records were set straight. Issues likely to cause dis-affection and disunity were discussed and resolved. Aggrieved members were pacified and contentious issues settled amicably. This move is important to avoid division and crisis which could undermine the strength and success of our party in future elections in our Constituency.” Oyo Speaker said. At the end of the meetings, PDP members in Ibarapa East State Constituency reaffirmed their loyalty to Chief Adewale Atanda Alase as the overall Leader of the party in Ibarapaland and agreed to continue working together for the upliftment of the party and all its members.

Ogsiec Urges Political Parties To Submit Qualified Candidates For The LG Polls.

October 4, 2024 by admin

Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), has called on political parties to present the best of their candidates with credible credentials for the forthcoming polls in November 2024. Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu stated this at the ongoing screening exercise for Councillorship candidates, at the Commission’s headquarters in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta. According to the Chairman, “the screening exercise is going on well, political parties have presented their candidates for screening and everyone is being attended to”. He noted that the Commission would conclude the exercise this week, saying any spillover of candidates for both Chairmanship and Councilorship would be given consideration in the following week, pointing out that “if for any reason, a candidate is disqualified, the party would have to present another candidate for screening”. The electoral umpire implored political parties to cooperate with OGSIEC in order to have a seamless election, while charging the youths to participate in politics by joining political parties of their choice and be part of decision-making process for the benefits of the good people of the state. In their separate remarks, Councilorship candidates, Mrs. Oluranti Subair from Iju ward 7 and Mr. Ebenezer Adesanmi from Ifo ward 3, commended OGSIEC for the smooth conduct of the screening exercise, saying the process had been hitch-free

2027: I still Control PDP Structure,I’ll Have A Say In Who Succeeds Me – Makinde

October 3, 2024 by admin

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has said he will have a say in determining whosoever will occupy the Agodi Government House to succeed him, come 2027. He said, although, he may not have his way in the final choice and eventual occuppier, he will still have his say, noting that the final decision on the successor solely lies with the people of the state. He also said members of the ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the state will have him to contend with in taking a final decision, adding that he is still the one controlling the party structure in the state. Makinde spoke on Thursday while receiving the report of the Committee on Review and Update of Public Service Rules and Other Regulations in the State Civil/Public Service. The brief ceremony held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Oyo state Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan and attended by top government functionaries, party stalwarts, among other dignitaries. The committee was headed by a former Secretary to Oyo State Government (SSG)/ Head of Service, Chief Bisi Adesola.

Makinde Approves Conversion Of LG Ad-hoc Workers To Permanent Staff

October 2, 2024 by admin

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has given ad-hoc workers across local government areas in Oyo State a major boost by approving their conversion to permanent staff status. This exciting announcement was made during the commissioning ceremony of the local government house and staff training school at Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Governor Makinde directed the Commissioner for Local Government to develop modalities for the conversion within four weeks, demonstrating his commitment to ensuring the welfare of local government workers 1. This move is part of the administration’s efforts to collaborate with local government administrations and deliver democracy dividends to the people. The commissioned building is a significant milestone, being the first modern building for the local government family. Governor Makinde emphasized that this achievement contradicts claims that his administration was destroying local government administration. Instead, it marks the beginning of renovations for structures in the Secretariat. This development is consistent with Governor Makinde’s track record of supporting civil servants. Previously, he approved the promotion of over 7,000 civil and public servants whose promotions were due in 2022. Additionally, his administration has reinstated workers unjustifiably relieved of their duties by the previous administration

PDP Accuses INEC, Security Agencies Of Making Edo Election A Must Win For APC

September 26, 2024 by admin

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies of aiding and abetting the irregularities that bedeviled the last Saturday Edo state governorship election, just as the party described the election as the worst poll ever conducted by the electoral umpire. Rev. Olu Martins, the Deputy Director-General, Media and Publicity, of the Asue/Ogie Campaign Council Management made the accusation while addressing newsmen in Benin. Martins said that the INEC made the election a must win for the APC following its actions and inactions. He berated the electoral body and the security agencies for providing the cover for the massive irregularities that took place at the collation process at the INEC State collation centre. Martins noted that the election was going on free, fair, and credible at the ward and Local government levels until INEC and the security agencies became interested parties in the election when it moved collation to the INEC State collation office. He added that President Ahmed Bola Tinubu body language and comments ahead of the Edo governorship election were not unconnected with the rape of democracy perpetuated during the September 21st governorship election, which he described as a sham and shame. He disclosed that the party was already consulting and putting things together to know the next line of action. Independent NG

Edo Election: Civil Society Coalition Warns INEC, Security Agencies Against Dire Democratic Consequences Of Compromise

September 22, 2024 by admin

The Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) has issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Security Agencies to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process in the collation of the Edo State Governorship Election Results as the consequences of compromise will be dire to Nigeria’s democracy. In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Alhaji Ali Abacha, on Sunday, the coalition of over 75 Civil Society Groups, Community-based Organisations, and Socio-political Pressure groups, noted that “the 2023 general elections exposed INEC’s glaring inefficiencies and blatant disregard for democratic principles”, saying that the “Edo election presents an opportunity for redemption as any attempt to subvert the will of the people will be vehemently resisted.” The Civil Society organizations in the Press Statement says, We demand that “INEC conduct itself in a manner that inspires confidence in the electoral process. This includes strict adherence to electoral guidelines and laws, transparent collation and announcement of results, and neutrality and impartiality. “Compromising democracy invites anarchy. Edo voters, not INEC or external forces, must decide their next Governor. The era of court-decided elections is over. The people’s decision must prevail, and their voices must be heard loud and clear in Edo State. “We equally caution Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the NSCDC, the Military, and the DSS, against succumbing to political pressure or inducement of any kind aimed at thwarting the electoral outcome in the State. Your role is to safeguard democracy, not undermine it. Maintaining professionalism throughout the electoral process is non-negotiable. “To the people of Edo State, we urge continued vigilant participation. Protect your vote; ensure your voice is heard. The world watches, and history will judge the actions of INEC and the Security Agencies in the ongoing governorship election. “We will not tolerate any form of manipulation or rigging. The Edo election must be free, fair, and credible”, the Civil Society Coalition insisted.