Edo Election: Governor Obaseki Declares Gubernatorial Poll A “Do-or-Die Affair” ,Criticizes Wike

  Edo governor, Godwin Obaseki, has insisted that the upcoming governorship election in the state is a “do-or-die affair.” The governor stated that if the All Progressives Congress (APC) were to win, it would spell disaster for the people of Edo. His words: “It’s a do-or-die affair because if they do, we die. The level of impunity, the level of recklessness we see in the opposition party, if they take over Edo State, it is the end.” Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Obaseki stated that the electorate in Edo State does not need external influence to make informed decisions in the election, referencing Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who has publicly withdrawn support for the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo. “Edo people are not that dumb. They know who to vote for. They don’t require the services of an outsider to make their decisions. Edo people will make decisions this time because they know what they want,” Obaseki said. Obaseki maintained that his disagreements with Wike and other political figures will not hinder the PDP’s chances on Saturday. The governor also addressed criticism from some politicians about how he has utilized government funds, stating, “Some politicians are not happy with me because I have used money from the government’s revenues to solve the needs of the people.”

Kwara LG Poll: NSCDC Deploys 3,000 Officers Ahead Of Saturday’s Election

    The Kwara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it deployed 3,000 officers across the state’s 16 Local Government Areas for Saturday’s local government elections. The state Commandant, Umar Mohammed, in a statement on Thursday in Ilorin said the personnel were drawn from the State Headquarters, Area Commands, and Divisional offices across the state. He said the deployed officers would man various polling units and synchronise their efforts with those of other sister security agencies to ensure a peaceful conduct of the elections. “Our primary responsibility is to create an environment where the local government elections can be conducted peacefully, free from violence, intimidation, ballot-snatching, and any other disruptive action.We will not tolerate any form of political thuggery, violence, hooliganism or any action aimed at disrupting the electoral process,” Mr Mohammed added. The NSCDC state commandant in Kwara State said the officers had been thoroughly briefed and were ready for the assignment. He further said the Corps’ special forces, such as Operation Harmony, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and the Female Squad, would be patrolling the state for further security. He said, “Also, officers from the Anti-Vandal Unit and Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Department were deployed to monitor and protect government assets, to prevent vandals during and after the elections.” The commandant appealed to political parties and citizens to cooperate with security agencies and avoid any action that could undermine the peaceful conduct of the election. The local government elections will hold on Saturday with only five political parties participating. These are the All Progressives Congress, Peoples’ Democratic Party, Allied Peoples Movement, Social Democratic Party and Accord Party.

PDP Leadership: Gov. Adeleke Affirms Support For PDP Constitution

    Osun State Governor, Sen. Ademola Adeleke has clarified his position on the raging leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). A statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Thursday, said the Governor declared that he stands by the relevant provisions of the PDP Constitution. “I stand by the Constitution of our great party which clearly spelt out the succession procedure in case of the exit of an elected chairman. “I also stand by the resolution of the PDP Governors’ Forum of which I am an integral part. “Our party must adhere to its Constitution at this critical time and at all times. That is the way to build a responsible political party.

Eid-El-Maulud: Hon. Segelu Sends Greetings To Muslims Worldwide

  By Adeleke Maria   Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu,A Germany-based Nigerian entrepreneur, ICT consultant, and politician from Oyo State, who recently declared his intention to run for the 2027 gubernatorial race, has sent his felicitations to Muslims around the world on the occasion of the 2024 Eid-el-Maulud. Eid-el-Maulud is an Islamic feast celebrated to mark the anniversary of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In a statement issued on Monday, Hon. Segelu stressed the need for Muslim faithful in Nigeria to use this occasion to pray for the peace, unity, and security of the country. “I heartily congratulate our Muslim brethren and sisters across the globe on the occasion of the 2024 Eid-el-Maulud, a feast commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). “As I join our Muslim brothers and sisters worldwide in celebrating this joyous occasion, I urge them to imbibe the spirit of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which teaches sacrifice, peace, love, humility, compassion, resilience, charity, and respect for one another. “I particularly ask our Muslim faithful in Nigeria to remember to pray fervently for the peace, unity, security, and economic stability of our country. Our dear country is really going through a very difficult moment that calls for serious prayers and supplications to God Almighty to seek for His eyes of mercy upon Nigeria,” Segelu appealed. He called on the APC led administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) to do something fast to control the escalating rise in the prices of good and services which has brought untold hardship on the masses. While expressing optimism that Nigeria will rise again, he enjoined the President to reconsider some of his policies that have exacerbated the situation in the country and made life unbearable for the citizens.

Edo Election: State Government Alleges Oshiomhole And Mopol Commander Are Colluding To Rig The Vote

  The Edo State government has accused former governor, Adams Oshiomhole, of planning to rig the forthcoming governorship election in polling units around his hometown in Iyamho. Naija News reports that the Edo Polls will be taking place on September 21. However, the State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, while speaking during a press conference in Benin City, the Edo State capital, on Sunday, claimed that Oshiomhole was colluding with the Commander of Mopol and his men to sabotage the election in his hometown. Nehikhare claimed that the same scenario played out in the last election in 2020. The Commissioner said, “We are aware of plans that have already been concluded by Senator Adams Oshiomhole to engage the Commander of Mopol 60 and his men who have been engaged to provide shield in the polling units around Senator Oshiomhole’s home in Iyamho in order to allow the Senator and his supporters take the ballot papers and all election materials into his premises and thumbprint all the ballot papers for APC, leaving other parties with no chances of getting fair votes. In the last elections, we gave this information but it was ignored. The BVAS report validated our report as 210 people were accredited but over 1000 votes were recorded.” Nehikhare alleged that the state government had uncovered massive production of masks and police uniforms by APC agents to veil their thugs to disrupt voting processes in units and wards where they knew they stood no chance of victory. “Only recently, a chieftain of the APC wore one of those uniforms and the police even presented a defence for such wanton display of impersonation. “Having confirmed that they cannot win in Okpella, Lampese, Fugar, Ibillo and Agenebode, the APC has concluded plans to use thugs veiled in those masks and police uniforms which they produced to disrupt electoral process and intimidate voters in those areas. “In Egor Local Government Area, the APC has gathered thugs in the home of a prominent APC leader as well as other houses in the neighborhood under the shield of the Textile Mill Police Station in order to disrupt the voting process in Egor Local Government Area. “We also uncovered plans by the House of Representatives member representing Ovia Constituency who has engaged about 200 militants for the purpose of disrupting election materials and electoral officials in the riverine axis of the State beginning from Ologbo, Nikorogha, all the way to Siluko. We also understand that these militants have already been ferried into the state and lodged into various hotels. We are giving this information for the security agencies to act swiftly to arrest or dislodge these thugs and plans,” Nehikare added

PDP Suspends Senator Dino Melaye Over Alleged Anti-Party Activities

  The Kogi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended former senator and gubernatorial candidate Dino Melaye due to accusations of engaging in activities against the party. Melaye was suspended by the PDP exco in Ayetoro Gbede, Ward 1, following his refusal to honour a summon. In a memo dated September 12, the ward executive committee stated that Melaye was summoned to a disciplinary committee in August to address allegations of misconduct but did not attend the meeting. The memo reads: The Ward Party Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Ayetoro/lluagba ward 1 met on Friday the 12th of September 2024 to review the report of the disciplinary committee set up to investigate alleged anti-party activities against Senator Dino Melaye, a member of our great party. “However, he failed to show up, disregarding the invitation and the authority of the party. “After careful consideration and deliberation, the Ward Party Exco resolved as follows: That Senator Dino Melaye’s failure to appear before the Disciplinary Committee constitutes a gross disrespect to the party and its leadership. “That his actions are in clear violation of the PDP Constitution and the principles of party discipline. “That Senator Dino Melaye’s conduct has brought embarrassment and disrepute to the party, and his continued membership is no longer tenable. “Therefore, the Ward Party Exco hereby suspends Senator Dino Melaye from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately.” The PDP executive committee stated that the suspension is by Article 59(1) of the PDP Constitution, which authorizes the Ward Party Exco to take disciplinary action against members who violate the rules.

Birthday: Hon. Segelu Celebrates with Ogunsina, Oyo State PDP Spokesman

  By Our Reporter   Hon. Olayinka Segelu, a businessman originally from Ibadan and a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) based in Germany, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Michael Ogunsina, the Acting Publicity Secretary of Oyo State PDP, on the occasion of his birthday. Hon Segelu, in a birthday message to Ogunsina on Thursday, described him as a loyal and trusted party man who has remained committed to the progress and growth of the PDP, Oyo State and Nigeria in general. According to Segelu, Ogunsina who is equally the Youth Leader of Oyo State PDP has demonstrated the capacity to lead as a young man full of energy and vibrancy working hard for the good of our party and its members. He said the youth leader cum spokesman of the Oyo State Chapter of PDP who has been an inspiration to youths in Oyo State and beyond, has made significant impact in the lives of many with his dynamism, purposefulness and doggedness. In his message, Segelu, who recently declared his interest to participate in the 2027 Oyo governorship race, said: “Dear Hon. Michael Ogunsina, I join numerous well-wishers, friends, family, and political associates, to extend my warmest birthday wishes to you as you celebrate your special day. “Your leadership as the State Youth Leader and your role as the acting State PRO have made a significant impact on our great Party. Since your election as Oyo PDP Youth Leader and subsequent appointment as the party’s Publicity Secretary (Spokesman), you have clearly demonstrated the ability to lead and conducted yourself in a manner that portrayed you as a good party man keenly interested in seeing that everything works well for our party and her members. “Quite frankly, you have proven to be a complete embodiment of peace, knowledge, humility, friendliness and kind-heartedness. These excellent qualities have no doubt made you an inspiration to many around you. “As you add another year on earth today, it is my very fervent prayer that may God Almighty grant you long life, abundant grace, favour and protection from all sides. Your brotherly advice is cherished and valued immensely. It shall be well with you in your new age! “Happy birthday, Bro Mike as you are fondly called. Enjoy your day to the fullest.”

Olayinka Segelu Announces 2027 Oyo Governorship Bid, Vows to Build on Makinde’s Successes

  By Adeleke Maria      Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji (Segelu), the son of the murdered House of Representatives member Chief Akintola Oladimeji (Segelu), has announced his plan to run for governor of Oyo State in the 2027 general elections as a candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The young and vibrant Olayinka Segelu revealed his plans during a media parley at his Monatan home in Ibadan on Wednesday. He disclosed that his political career is not a matter of chance but is driven by the legacy of his late father, with the goal of making a significant impact on the community. Hon. Segelu, who said that his mission is to consolidate on the achievements recorded by the present administration in the state under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, appreciated the governor for creating an enabling environment for the youth to play an active role in the political setting of the state. The former Personal Assistant to the Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole, described the governor as a man of honour whose style of leadership is worthy of emulation, having demonstrated a strong belief in the ability of youth to lead the state come 2027 with the age limit set for his successor. Hon. Olayinka disclosed that the age limit, his commitment to the party, (PDP) coupled with his political experience as an appointee in the National Assembly, as well as his international connections and exposure have positioned him as the most qualified person to succeed Governor Seyi Makinde in 2027. The youthful Segelu, who is a graduate of Political Science and International Relations, said that his government will prioritize agriculture, infrastructure, economic advancement, health, social welfare, transportation, and human capacity development, which are all in line with the agenda of the present administration in the state. “My life has been shaped by profound experiences, including the loss of my father—a man who dedicated his life to serving our people. His legacy inspires me to follow in his footsteps and make a meaningful impact in our communities. “I may not be the wealthiest or the most experienced candidate, but my youth and determination equip me to tackle the challenges ahead. I am committed to building upon the foundation laid by the current administration under our leader, Engr. Seyi Makinde. “With my educational background in political science and diverse professional experience in sectors like ICT, engineering, and agriculture, I am uniquely positioned to lead Oyo State into a new era of prosperity. “My time as a political appointee in the National Assembly, Abuja has provided me with invaluable insights, fueling my passion for effective governance. “My vision for Oyo State is a mission—to prioritize agriculture, infrastructure, economic advancement, health, social welfare, transportation, and human capacity development. I aim to establish robust institutions that empower our people and foster independence from federal allocations. “Security of life and property and social welfare are very important and will be key parts of my agenda. This is because what they did to my father I will not allow such to happen to other people under my watch. You will notice that when we were facing security challenges in Oyo State and in the entire South West, our governors came together and established Amotekun and this has been helping us in the fight against insecurity. In Oyo State, we will continue on the trend, we will consolidate on the efforts of the government of Engr. Seyi Makinde to ensure that our people continue to enjoy peace in the state. “In terms of economic prosperity, one major area that I will concentrate on is agriculture, which Governor Seyi Makinde has performed wonderfully. One of the achievements is Fasola Farm, we will also consolidate on that to ensure food security in the state.” Ho. Olayinka Segelu called for the support of the youth, women, leaders, members of the Peoples Democratic Party and the media practitioners to support his ambition. “As we embark on this journey together, I want to emphasize the importance of unity, purpose, and transformation for our beloved Oyo State. “Let’s build a narrative of hope, empowerment, and progress together. I look forward to collaborating with each of you as we strive for a better tomorrow for our people,” Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu said.

Kwankwaso Declares PDP ‘Dead’ at NNPP Office Inauguration

The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has said the Peoples Democratic Party is dead in the country. Speaking on Saturday during the inauguration of a renovated party office in Katsina State, Kwankwaso said he and his followers left the PDP because “it is dead”. “I wish to remind you that PDP is dead because we left the party. Since they have gone out of the line, we decided to check out,” he said. Kwankwaso also said he would win the 2027 presidential election, adding that the NNPP is ready to take over the presidency and more than the states. The former Governor of Kano State said Nigerians should not be deceived by gifts or money during the next general election. Also speaking, Katsina NNPP chairman, Armaya’u Abdulkadir, said the party in the state is doing everything possible to enlighten the electorate on the party’s new logo. Abdulkadir said the new logo symbolises education for all, which is the main focus area of the Kwankwasiyya leader. “There is the need for the party to embark on grassroots sensitisation to inform the members on the importance of the new logo,” he said.     Punch 

NIN required to buy 50kg bag of rice at N40,000 – FG

The Federal Government has announced that only buyers with National Identification Numbers would benefit as it commenced the sale of 30, 000 metric tonnes of milled rice to Nigerians at a subsidised rate of N40,000 per 50kg bag. President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, stated during the flag-off ceremony on Thursday, that the rice intervention will be sold strictly on a “one person, one bag” basis. Kyari explained that the 50kg bags of rice, priced at a flat rate of ₦40,000, are part of the Federal Government’s effort to provide subsidised milled rice to help alleviate the ongoing food crisis in Nigeria. “This food intervention can be said to be timely considering the times and challenges we are in as citizens of this great nation. “As one of the numerous efforts of the present administration to cushion the effect of high cost of food commodities, kindly join me in applauding the immense efforts of the present administration such as the release of 42,000MT of Assorted Food Commodities (AFC) to vulnerable and the 30,000MT of milled rice which is being flagged-off for sales to Nigerians today September 5, 2024,” he stated. On buyer verification, Kyari explained that a multi-disciplinary government task force has been deployed to ensure transparency, broad distribution and the overall success of the initiative. He emphasised that the process was designed to prevent individuals from obtaining more than one 50kg bag of rice, noting that beneficiaries will be verified through identification methods such as the NIN and phone numbers to prevent fraudulent individuals from accessing multiple bags at the expense of other citizens. “In view of the above, I urge our dear citizens to cooperate with the relevant agencies of government who will try to serve you to achieve this great initiative of government. “It is expected that with the injection of 30,000MT (1000 trucks of 30MT each of this important staple into Nigeria’s food balance sheet, it will not only crash the price of rice but also other closer food substitutes and alternatives,” he said. Speaking on the process Nigerians would have to follow to purchase the rice, the Director of Strategic Grains Reserve, Ministry of Agriculture, Haruna Sule, explained that civil servants can access the grains at designated points of sale by using their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System details. “To qualify for the one person one bag, you must have a National Identification Number, of course, you have phone numbers and those in public service are all registered under the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS) platform,” he said. “Once you have any of these three, at the point of sale, with the NIN logged into the system, a code number and a Treasury receipt will be generated, and with that, the buyer can get to the collection centre and pick up his bag. The receipt will indicate, the time and point of collection to eliminate stampede,” he added. Sule explained that once the buyer provides the code number, a treasury receipt will be issued as proof of payment to the government, adding that the buyer will then receive a receipt indicating the collection point and time. He further clarified that the collection point is separate from the sales point, adding, “At the collection point, you present your code to our officials, and you will be handed a bag of rice.” In July, the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, announced the sale of subsidised rice. Following this, the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, through its Human Resources Management Department, instructed civil servants to register for the purchase of the food item. However, the government later suspended the plan without providing any explanation for the decision.