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“APC And  PDP Are Evil” – Lamido, Says Tinubu’s Economic Policies Make The Rich, Poor Cry

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

Former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has said the two leading political parties, in Nigeria, All Progressives Congress (APC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are evil, but described the PDP as a better evil which Nigerians can bear.

Lamido, a former Minister of Foreign Affairs who spoke on Arise TV political programme pointed out that Nigerians can now choose between the lesser evil and dangerous species if only change is required in the Country.

Lamido, who criticised the Federal Government policies on economy, which make both the rich and poor to be crying, insisted Nigerians can not afford to remain in the hellish situation created by the APC.

Lamido noted that the unifying factor among Nigerians currently is hardship.

“I think the choice is very narrow. You either join the PDP or you remain in your own hell. You see no matter how you analyze, what we have stolen, how dirty we are, we are better evil than the APC.

“Therefore, the choice of Nigerians are two evils- a very dangerous evil which is the APC and maybe a very saintly evil, the PDP.

“I was vilified, humiliated and called a devil. I went through all kinds of agony simply because I was trying to tell Nigerians about the APC and now, they are in power now and they are saying what.

“I always say this. Nigeria is a country so blessed and well endowed by God with the human population which is a huge asset.

“But then, somehow, there is something missing in us. In the last eight years of APC government, we have been through hell and we have been overwhelmed and now being pushed to the extreme.”

Kano: Police Arrests Several As Violence Mars Re-Run Poll

By
The Source
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Alhaji Mohammad Husseini Gumel - Kano CP

By Daniel Maduka

The Kano State Police authorities have arrested a large number of suspected political thugs, allegedly hired by some political actors to disrupt the Saturday February 3 House of Assembly re-run elections in the State.

The State Commissioner of Police, Muhammad Husseini Gumel, who disclosed this at an interactive session with the media, said most of the suspected thugs were arrested in Kunchi/Tsanyanwa, one of the areas where the re-run elections was scheduled to take place in the State.

Alhaji Gumel said that some of the arrested thugs have confessed to being hirelings of one of  the contestants in the elections.

As a result of the violence, disruption of electoral process and the snatching and abduction of electoral materials and some Independent National Electoral Commission INEC officials, the elections were suspended in all the 10 polling units, where elections were supposed to be conducted in Kunchi/ Tsanyanwa.

The New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, on Saturday ,accused its arch rival the All Progress Congress APC of being behind the orgy of violence and attacks on innocent voters during the re run exercise.

The NNPP in a statement issued by its Kano State Chairman Dr Hashim Suleiman Dungurawa, said it is dismayed by the sporadic attacks on unsuspecting voters by APC hired thugs ,with the aim of disenfranchising them.

“We sighted the deployment of thousands of thugs on Friday February 2 by the APC for the purpose of disrupting the election process  on Saturday,.” Dr  Dungurawa alleged.

The Chairman Kano NNPP , however appreciated the efforts of the state police authorities and other security agencies in protecting the lives and property of innocent residents and voters.

As at the time of reporting on Sunday February 4 ,the APC was yet to officially respond to its alleged involvement in the disruption of the elections.

Meanwhile ,the INEC has declared the NNPP as winner in the two state  Constituencies of Kura/ GaruMalam and Rimi Ga do/ Tofa  rerun which held on Saturday,.

.The electoral umpire  said the fate of Kunchi/ Tsanyawa will be made known later.

APC’s Laguda Succeeds Gbaja, Trashes PDP, LP Candidates, Wins Surulere Federal Constituency Bye-Election

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Kayode Laguda

By Akinwale Kasali

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Candidate at the Surulere Constituency 1 Bye-Election, Kayode Laguda has been announced  the winner of the election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, announced that there were a total of 11,801 valid votes, 138 rejected votes and a total vote cast of 11,939.

Out of the total votes cast, Laguda obtained a total of 11,203 votes to defeat his closest opponent, Jerry Afemikhe of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who garnered 278 votes.

The Candidate of the Labour Party, Adeola Adebanjo, had a total of 240 votes.

Prof Adebayo Oladipo, INEC’s Returning Officer for the Bye-Election in the Constituency, announced that Laguda won in all the polling units.

He said, “I hereby certify that Fuad Kayode Laguda of APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared winner and is returned elected.”

With this victory, Laguda, a former Chairman of  the APC in the Surulere Local Government will replace Femi Gbajabiamila who was appointed Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Below is the breakdown of the votes as released by INEC.

Ward 04 Akinhanmi/Cole

Total registered votes: 27917

Accredited Votes: 2190

Total Valid votes: 2170

Rejected votes: 20

Total votes cast: 2190

APC: 2099

PDP: 29

LP: 27

Ward 05 Yaba/Ojuelegba

Total registered votes: 19558

Accredited Votes: 1710

Total Valid votes: 1689

Rejected votes: 21

Total votes cast: 1710

APC: 1615

PDP: 38

LP: 23

Ward 06 Igbaja/ Stadium

Total registered votes: 23060

Accredited Votes: 2234

Total Valid Votes: 2209

Rejected votes: 25

Total votes cast: 2234

APC: 2102

PDP: 46

LP: 48

Ward 07 Shitta/Ogunlana Drive

Total registered vote 32414

Accredited Votes 3157

Total Valid Votes 3119

Rejected votes 34

Total votes cast 3153

APC: 2966

PDP: 84

LP: 50

Ward 08 Adeniran/Ogunsanya

Total registered vote 21586

Accredited Votes 1519

Total Valid Votes 1502

Rejected votes 19

Total votes cast: 1519

APC 1373

PDP 57

LP 61

09 Iponri Housing Estate/Eric Moore

Total registered vote 15842

Accredited Votes 1133

Total Valid Votes 1112

Rejected votes 21

Total votes cast 1133

APC 1048

PDP 24

LP 31

Osun: Gov Adeleke Identifies External Influence As Reason Behind Communal Clashes, Raps Feuding Communities

By
Ayodele Oni
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0

By Ayodele Oni

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has initiated moves to resolve the inter communal crisis between Ilobu and Ifon communities with a view to find lasting solution.

Adeleke at the weekend embarked on marathon peace consolidation efforts among the communities by interacting separately with them during  town hall meetings.

The Governor was accompanied by heads of security agencies and top administration officials to Ilobu, Ifon and Erin Osun.

The Governor reviewed the outcome of the previous security meetings with the royal fathers and community leaders in the affected towns.

In each of the towns, the traditional leaders submitted their own version of the stories and their preparedness to submit a list of members of the peace committee set up at the State Security stakeholders meeting.

The interactive session further provided the state government with clearer perspectives on the conflict and further equipped the state security leadership with better insights into conflict de-escalation and ongoing peace building among the communities.

In separate addresses at each of the town hall meetings, Adeleke harped on peace as a condition for development, reaffirming the resolve of his administration to find a lasting solution to the recurring conflict.

The Governor reassured the communities that he has identified several factors responsible for the confrontation namely lack of trust among the community leaders, non- existence of inter-communal peace structures, involvement of criminal elements and infiltration by external forces from within and outside the state.

The Governor further told the local leaders and people that he is committed to the implementation of the resolutions reached at the stakeholders’ meeting and challenged all signatories to abide by the conclusions.

According to Governor Adeleke, the resolutions and other political strategies already adopted by his administration would tackle the root causes of the clashes, repeating his resolve to deal harshly with those behind the communal unrest.

“I am here to preach peace as a condition for development and better lives for our people.

“I am here to warn that there is no room for war mongers and sponsors of violence. It is in everybody’s interest for peace to reign permanently in these communities.

“If you don’t know, your needless confrontations are scaring investors away from Osun. Don’t allow yourself to become agents of under-development. Let us jaw-jaw instead of war.

“I charge you all to sheath your swords and embrace dialogue. Instead of blood shedding and destruction of properties, why not join hands to build a prosperous society. Our administration will reinforce and sustain peace at all costs. Join the Imole peace move now.”

Imo at 48: “Forward Ever, Backward Never” – Governor Uzodimma

By
The Source
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Hope Uzodimma

Governor Hope Uzodimma has said that Imo State is moving forward at 48, and that his administration is working tirelessly to fulfil the dreams of the visionary founding fathers who laid the foundation of the State.

Imo State was created on February 3,1976 by late General Muritala Mohammed, who named late Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu as the maiden Military Administrator.

The 7th leader of Imo State since her creation, Governor Uzodimma, said in a statement he wrote on his social media platform that at “48 Imo State is moving forward.”

The Governor did as he reflected on the visionary leaders who laid the foundation of Imo State with objectives centring on unity, progress and shared prosperity.

Governor Uzodimma’s statement read in full:

“On this joyous occasion of our beloved State’s 48th anniversary, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every citizen who has contributed to the growth and prosperity of Imo State. As we celebrate this milestone, let us reflect on our Richmond history, forged by visionary leaders who laid the foundation for our great state with objectives centered on unity, progress and shared prosperity.

“Our journey began with the dream of building a State that embodies the spirit of brotherhood and resilience. Today, we stand united, showcasing our resourcefulness, patriotism and unwavering commitment to the collective progress of our dear State and our great nation.

“In commemorating our anniversary, let us take pride in the achievements of our fellow citizens, who exemplifies the dedication and excellence that characterize Imolites. Their contributions on various fronts reflect the spirit of Imo and inspire us all to reach greater heights.

“I commend our active participation in the present-day governance of Imo State, a testament to the success of our all-inclusive Government. Your dedication fuels our efforts to create an environment of sustained development, ensuring the security of lives and properties, and paving the way for prosperity for all.

“At 48, Imo is moving forward and I assure you that my administration is tirelessly working to fulfill our promises. Let us stand united, build on our achievements and forge ahead in transforming Imo into the State of our dreams. Together, we can create a legacy that future generations will be proud of.

“Happy anniversary, Imo State!  Forward ever, backward never.”

LASG Clears Illegal Squatters from Ijora Under Bridge Over Environmental Concerns

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
Ijora Causeway Bridge

By Akinwale Kasali

Following the expiration of the quit notice given to squatters at Ijora Under Bridge and its environs, and in a decisive move to halt  further environmental violation in the area, the Lagos State Government has commenced the dislodgement of illegal squatters residing under Ijora Bridge.

The  action which was carried out by the enforcement team of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, followed a one-week ultimatum earlier issued by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.

Wahab noted that the exercise was aimed at addressing issues of gross environmental abuse, perpetrated by the illegal squatters, adding that the state government would leave no stone unturned in restoring sanity to the environment across the metropolis.

He said, “The dislodgement exercise under the Ijora Bridge is a continuation of our unwavering commitment to restoring environmental sanity across the state. These illegal settlements not only pose serious health and safety risks but also contribute significantly to the littering and defacement of public spaces. We will not tolerate such disregard for the environment and the well-being of residents”.

He stressed that the exercise served as a strong warning to others who might be considering similar actions, noting that the state government would not hesitate to take decisive measures to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of all Lagosians.

“The state governor took an oath of office to safeguard lives and properties of over 22 million Lagosians. Hence the law has to be enforced without fear nor favour. At the end of it all, we are all the better for it. The state cannot fold its arms and allow the economic gain of a few to override the beneficial interest of the rest. It is about the larger picture. It is a zero tolerance to all forms of infraction”, he said.

LAWMA Managing Director/CEO, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the Authority would continue to place premium on establishing a cleaner and healthy environment, adding that the dislodgement of illegal squatters under the Ijora Bridge was a step towards addressing environmental concerns in the area.

“We are committed to ensuring a clean and healthy environment for all residents of Lagos. The enforcement action under the Ijora Bridge is a crucial step in achieving this goal. We will continue to identify and address environmental challenges across the state, working tirelessly to make Lagos a cleaner, more sustainable city”, he said.

INEC Officials Abducted, Rerun Elections Suspended In Three States

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
Ondo Bye Election

By Akinwale Kasali

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has suspended rerun elections in 20 Polling Units in Three States, following the abduction of its Officials.

The affected areas are Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State.

Suspension of elections in two Polling Units (Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA) where all election materials were carted away by hoodlums.

The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun disclosed this in a statement issued Saturday in Abuja, stressing that the suspension of the ongoing re-run elections in some constituencies is due to what it described as “disruptions, irregularities and abduction of election officials”.

“Enugu South 1 State Constituency, Enugu State. Suspension of elections in all eight Polling Units where the original results sheets were not available for inspection by voters before the commencement of polls.

“Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency, Kano State. Suspension of elections in all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs”, he stated.

Olumekun added that the decision of the Commission aligns with the provisions of Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

“Further necessary measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission’s meeting on Monday.

“INEC invites the security agencies to investigate the incidents, while the Commission commits to thoroughly interrogating any breaches involving its officials”, he added.

INEC Gives Bye Election Updates, Confirms Violence In Three States

By
Ayodele Oni
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INEC By Elections

By Ayodele Oni

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given an update on the bye election in some states to fill existing vacant positions mainly at states and national assembly.

The commission announced on Saturday that it is monitoring cases of thuggery and hijacking of electoral materials in some states in the ongoing rerun and bye-elections in some states.

INEC, in a statement on its X handle, listed the affected states where violence was reported as Akwa Ibom, Kano and Enugu.

According to the electoral body, polls opened promptly and accreditation went on smoothly in the 8,934 Polling Units in 26 States involved in Saturday’s bye-elections and re-run elections.

“We are monitoring reported disruption of processes by acts of thuggery and hijacking of materials in some locations in Akwa Ibom, Enugu and Kano States.”

“In Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, we are investigating reported incidents in Village Hall, EdemUrua 003 in Ini LGA and Village Hall Mbiabong Ikot Udo 003 in Ikono LGA.

“In Enugu South 1 State Constituency of Enugu State, we are investigating reports of disruption in 8 Polling Units in Uwani West Ward.

“In Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituencies of Kano State, processes have been disrupted in Kunchi Local Government Area involving 10 Polling Units.”

Besides the three states, other states where the elections are being conducted include: Ebonyi, Yobe, Kebbi, Lagos, Ondo, Taraba, Benue, Borno, Kaduna, Plateau and Anambra.

Others are Cross River, Delta, Jigawa, Katsina, Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Nasarawa, Niger, Oyo, Sokoto and Zamfara.

Earlier, the commission said a total of 4,613,291 Nigerians who have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) are expected to participate in the exercise.

The elections are conducted to replace members who died or resigned their memberships of the national and state assemblies, as well as rerun elections at designated constituencies or polling units (PUs) as ordered by the election appeal tribunals.

According to INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the elections would fill vacancies in not less than three senatorial districts, 17 federal and 28 state constituencies spread across 80 local government areas, 575 registration areas/wards and 8,934 polling units involving 4,904,627 registered voters, out of which 4,613,291 PVCs have been collected.

Ondo Bye Election: INEC Commissioner Applauds Process, Ballot Box Snatching Recorded

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Ondo Bye Election

By Ayodele Oni

Few hitches were recorded during Saturday’s bye election in Akoko North East/Akoko North West federal constituency in Ondo state as voting was disrupted at some centres.

There was report of ballot snatching at Unit 5, Ward 13 in Oyinmo, Ikare-Akoko, as suspected political thugs hijacked the ballot box.

Report explained that the attack by the hoodlums caused panic with many voters taking to their heels during the attack, which occurred just before noon after not less than 63 people had cast their votes.

The hoodlums caused some commotion, while security personnel at the polling unit were trying to restore peace and order, one of them snatched the ballot box and fled the scene.

The results sheet, BVAS machine and other materials were intact.

It was gathered that 407 voters were registered at the polling unit for the election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission,(INEC)  lauded the turnout of voters in the election for Akoko North-East and Akoko North-West federal constituency in the State.

The National Commissioner supervising Osun, Ogun and Ondo, Osun and Ogun States, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, gave the commendation in an interview with newsmen at Okeagbe in Akoko North-West LGA, after monitoring election.

He said “From what we have observed since morning, the election is going on peacefully, and the turnout is impressive, no violence, no vote buying anywhere.

“So, we have not recorded any terrible incident since the start of the election and by grace of God everything will end peacefully.

“Everywhere we have been to, there was no report of challenges with the BVAS machine or cases of it malfunctioning.”

Commenting on the incident of ballot box snatching at the Unit 5,Ward 13, Oyinmo, Ikare-Akoko, the national commissioner said that the situation had been restored to normalcy.

“Is normal that miscreants will remain miscreants, they attempt to disrupt the election there, but the police over powered them and we have restored everything to order and no other incident apart from that.

Benue University Academic Staff Begin Indefinite Strike

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Benue State University

By Ayodele Oni

The Benue State University, (BSU) chapter of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has received the nod of the national body to proceed on an indefinite strike due to the institution’s failure to uphold its agreements.

This was contained in a statement signed by Kwaghfan Tarnongo, Chairperson, and  Terrumun Gajir, Secretary of ASUU-BSU.

The union, however, exonerated the Benue Government of any wrongdoing and commended it for regular funding of the university.

The statement reads “The National body of the Academic Staff Union of Universities has approved the request by the BSU to resume the strike it suspended on June 26, 2023.

“The permission to proceed on this strike was formally communicated to members of the Branch on Thursday at an emergency congress.”

The union listed its demands to include the implementation and payment of accrued arrears of 2021, 2022, and 2023 promotions and annual incremental steps.

Others are April 2023 salary arrears, the shortfall in the salaries of staff of the College of Health Sciences, payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), and payment of sundry allowances.

The demands also include the non-enrolment and implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme amongst other issues.

It said that the management of BSU had refused to address the welfare concerns of the union after a series of engagements with it.

“The most provocative of all is the tripartite agreement reached in January 2023 between the Benue Government, BSU management and the Governing Council and ASUU-BSU.

“This agreement which stipulated increased funding to the university to address the issues of promotion and annual increment is a road map to industrial harmony in BSU.

“The state government has kept its part of the agreement and has continued to sustain the additional funds to the university for specific purposes.”

It further alleged that the management of the BSU  had collected the additional funds from the government but refused to pay the staff their entitlements.

“This breach of the January 2023 agreement by the management of BSU led to the May 2023 strike by the branch.”

It said that the union suspended the strike in June 2023 following assurances by the management of BSU to adhere to the January 2023 agreement.

The union added that the university breached the agreement by failing to pay the arrears of annual increment since it started collecting the funds from the state Government in January 2023.

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