Politics

Kogi APC Objects Imposition of Officers by NWC

By Web News 351

Kogi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has rejected the names announced by the National Working Committee, NWC, of the party as replacements for the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary and the former Zonal Organising Secretary, who both resigned recently.

Explaining that they were wrongly replaced with names that did not emanate from the state chapter, the Kogi APC said the actions of the NWC is a clear contravention of the party’s constitution.

In a statement by the state APC Chairman, Abdullahi Bello, the party said that some known agents of distabilisation are behind the plot.

The statement noted that “consequent upon the resignation of the two officers, the Kogi State All Progressives Congress, APC, under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello, met to ratify and forward names of replacements for the national and zonal officers that left the party.”

He noted that the state chapter ratified Yahaya Ade Ismail as the new Deputy National Publicity Secretary and Isiaka Musa as the Zonal Organising Secretary for North Central.

The chairman said in line with the provisions of the party’s constitution, it communicated the ratified replacements to the NWC through the North Central Zonal Chairman of the party.

“To our dismay, the National Working Committee came up with strange names which didn’t pass through the state chapter nor the North Central Zone of the party and purportedly went ahead to ratify them, citing ‘Presidency interest’ as the rationale for their action.

“We strongly reject the action as we will not be parties to the blatant and flagrant violation of our party’s constitution.

“Our belief in Mr President as a man who respects the Constitution of our party and a man who believes in due process is unshaken in the face of the current confusion foisted on the party by people dropping the name of the President to achieve their selfish aims.

“We call on the National Working Committee of the party to reverse the unconstitutional replacements done on our behalf without our ratification or approval, and revert to our ratified list as they occupy those offices on behalf of the state chapter of our party.

“We have delivered Kogi State to the APC and the least we will expect is for the party hierarchy to continue to support us to achieve greater heights.

“The Kogi State chapter of the APC, therefore, rejects the decision of the National Working Committee in its entirety and urge it to follow the constitution of our party and the due process our party is known for.

“We are confident that the interest of the party is for Kogi State to remain a stronghold of the APC,  especially now that we march towards November 11 to retain the state,” the statement reads.

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Security

Police Declare Protest Illegal Ahead of Tribunal Verdict

By Web News 434

Amid growing tension in Kano State over a possible outcome of the Governorship election petition tribunal, the Kano State Police Command has banned all forms of street protest in the state.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Usaini Gumel who made the emergency public announcement while addressing newsmen at the Bompai police headquarters, said he got wind that both the All Progressive Congress, APC and the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP members are currently mobilizing rented crowd in the guise of Civil Society Coalition to stage protest over the outcome in the state hence the need to ban any form of protest.

According to him, “In consideration of the confirmatory intelligence products at the disposal of this Police Command, all forms of street protests are hereby banned across all parts of the State.

“Members of the public should therefore note that it has come to our knowledge that both the APC and the NNPP members are currently mobilizing rented crowds in the guise of Civil Society Coalition and without clearance from the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and without prior approval from the security agencies in the state. Both organizers, as well as the umbrella body, should note that any attempt to disrespect NLC and the Security Agencies in the state, by playing around with the fragile security situation, which the combined security agencies have been managing, is not only uncivil, criminal but also an offence against National Security 3. Checks have so far been conducted by this Police Command and It’s revealing that some members of both two political parties are influencing the members of the Civil Society to embark on this decision merely as a result of their apprehensions and to pre-empt the judgement of the election Tribunal.

“Finally, this Police Command is ever grateful for the enormous support and cooperation it has been enjoying from the good people of the State for the peace, security, stability and the overall interest of all residents,” the Commissioner of Police, CP Gumel however stated.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Ganduje Pledges to Reposition APC

By Web News 361

All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje yesterday promised to reposition the platform for growth and victory in future polls.

He spoke in Abuja shortly after he was elected as the sixth chair of party during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

The NEC was also empowered to fill the remaining six vacant party positions during the meeting presided over by the former acting chairman, Senator Abubakar Kyari.

Kyari who is the Deputy Chairman (North) position is also vacant, having been nominated for a ministerial position and screened by the Senate.

Five other positions in the National Working Committee (NWC) are vacant due to ministerial nominations and resignations.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the party leader, who attended the meeting, enjoined the leaders to support his administration in its bid to fulfill his campaign promises.

The Nation/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Ganduje Becomes APC National Chairman

By Web News 323

Former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and spokesperson for the ninth Senate, Senator Ajibola Basiru, were on Thursday officially ratified to replace the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Abdullahi Adamu and former National Secretary, Iyiola Omisore.

The decision was taken barely an hour after President Bola Tinubu arrived at the Transcorp Hilton, venue of the NEC meeting, on Thursday.

The President arrived at the Congress Hall of the hotel surrounded by stern-looking security operatives suspected to be officers of the Department of State Services at about 11.35 am.

Following the announcement of their appointments, supporters of Ganduje and Basiru broke into jubilation that almost disrupt the programme temporarily.

Among the dignitaries that arrived early for the NEC meeting were Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello; former governor of Osun State and pioneer chairman of APC, Chief Bisi Akande; acting National Chairman of the party, Senator Abubakar Kyari; former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and Spokesperson for the ninth Senate, Senator Ajibola Basiru.

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Progressives Govs. Speak on Adamu, Omisore’s Resignation

By Web News 382
  • Apologised for current Pump price adjustment

The Progressives Governors’ Forum has broken its silence on the exit of former National Chairman of All Progressives Congress, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, and National Secretary, Senator Iyiola Omisore, saying it was a voluntary action.

Chairman of the forum and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State stated this while addressing newsmen at the end of their closed-door meeting in Abuja on Wednesday night.

This was even as the governors elected on the platform of APC apologised for the recent adjustment in the pump price of petrol from the previous N550 to N617, promising that the current hardship occasioned by the skyrocketing cost of food, petroleum products and cost of living will soon be addressed.

The meeting, which was held at the Imo State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, started at about 9.54 pm and ended at 11.12 pm.

In attendance were Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state; Umar Bago (Niger); Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi); Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara); Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Ayedatiwa; Fr. Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Uba Sani (Kaduna); Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos); Mai Mala Buni (Yobe); and Dikko Radda (Katsina).

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Uzodinma denied there was crisis in the party, saying the APC governors were in support of Adamu and Omisore’s resignation.

“I am aware some of you are anxious to know what is going on in our party and the country. We deliberated on so many issues that have to do with our party, the APC. You must have heard of the resignation of the National Chairman of our party and the National Secretary of the party. Those are voluntary actions that have been taken with due respect to our national chairman and our secretary.

“We commended the wisdom in what they have done and they served us well in the party, we are happy with the services and the party is united, there is no crisis in the party. They are happy; we also are happy. So, we are in support of their actions and they would continue to be commended, respected, and recognised for the services they have rendered to our great party.

“Their resignations have also been accepted by the leadership of the party. There is now an acting chairman and acting Secretary,” he said.

Continuing, Uzodinma disclosed that the governors’ forum is conscientiously working with the leadership of President Bola Tinubu to address the current hardship faced by Nigerians.

He also debunked speculation on social media that the governors are silent because the increase in the cost of fuel means more money to them through the Federation Account Allocation Committee.

“I decided to deal with the controversial social media posting of our upcoming FAAC. We are aware that the result of the removal of the fuel subsidy will increase the volume of money that would be received by us during the Federation Allocation Account meeting. We are working with the Federal government to ensure that the proceeds of that FAAC will be utilised in a manner that the citizens of the country are happy, the Labour happy and we also the practitioners happy. The economy of the country would be protected. So what has happened is something that we should be happy about.

“The current hardship occasioned by the price increase on food, Petroleum products, and cost of living is being addressed. The sub-national government is working with the Federal Government and tomorrow (Thursday), there would be National Executive Council to discuss further that,” he said.

Punch / Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Adamu Absent at APC NWC Meeting Amid Resignation Saga

By Web News 456

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress , APC, Abdullahi Adamu, has reportedly resigned from his position.

Reports says that Mr Adamu resigned on Sunday night.

He had also told the newsmen that he would not speak on his purported resignation until President Bola Tinubu returned from Kenya where the president is attending the Fifth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting.

“I won’t talk about the issue because the president is away,” Mr Adamu was quoted as saying.

However, it was reported Monday morning that the APC chairman submitted his letter of resignation to Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the president.

When contacted, APC spokesperson Felix Morka did not confirm nor deny the report.

“I cannot confirm anything at the moment,” Mr Morka told newsmen via phone on Monday morning.

Mr Adamu was a senator representing Nasarawa West before his emergence as the national chairman of the ruling party last year.He also served as the Nasarawa State governor between 1999 and 2007.

In the meantime, Senator Abdullahi Adamu was absent as members of the All Progressives Congress, APC’s, National Working Committee (NWC) met in Abuja on Monday.

The APC NWC meeting, held at the party secretariat in Abuja, was presided over by the APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Abubakar Kyari.

The APC NWC meeting and Adamu’s absence come amid his reported resignation and unfolding crisis within the ruling party.

Senator Adamu is said to have resigned along with the National Secretary of the party, Senator Iyiola Omisore.

Some sources within the party said if Senator Adamu does not resign, a vote of no confidence would be passed on him and forced out.

Culled/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Crime

Kidnapped Ekiti APC Chairman, Two Others Regain Freedom

By Web News 383

By Amos Ogunrinde

The Kidnapped Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress, APC in Ekiti State, Mr. Paul Omotoso alongside two others have regained their freedom.

They have also been reunited with their families.

The APC Chairman, Mr. Paul Omotoso, a retired School Principal, Mr Simon Faboyede from Erinjinyan Ekiti and a former Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ayodele Ajimati were kidnapped last Saturday along Agbado Imesi Ekiti road in Ayekire Local Government Area of the state.

The Public Relations Officer, Ekiti State Police Command, Mr Sunday Abutu confirmed this in a statement in Ado Ekiti.

The Police spokesperson explained that the breakthrough was achieved through the combined efforts of the Police, sisters’ agencies, local security outfits and the family members as well as the Ekiti State government.

Mr Abutu announced that that three suspects were arrested in connection with the incident, and they are currently providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of the prime suspects, currently at large.

He implored residents of Ekiti state to be security conscious, vigilant and ensure prompt reportage of any suspicious person or group of persons noticed in their areas to the nearest Police Station.

Religion

Eid-el-Kabir: Makinde, Adeleke, Abiodun, Oyo Assembly, APC  Felicitate Muslim Faithful

By Web News 835

By Iyabo Adebisi

Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and across the country on the occasion of the 2023 Eid-el-Kabir.

The governor congratulated all residents of the state on witnessing the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah 1444 A.H., marking the 2023 Eid-el-Kabir, praying to Allah (SWT) to accept the worship and sacrifices of the Muslim Ummah across the country. 

Governor Makinde, who appreciated the Muslims for their support and prayers during the four years of Omituntun 1.0, called on them to continue to pray for his administration, the state and Nigeria.

According to the governor, the continued peace and prosperity of Oyo State and the success of his government are hinged on the prayers and support of the people.

The governor maintained that once the people continue to support his administration, the government would be able to deliver on its commitment to move the state to greater heights through the action plans highlighted in his Roadmap for Sustainable Development, 2023-2027.

He said: “I use this occasion to congratulate the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and, indeed, all residents of the state on witnessing the 2023 Eid-el-Kabir.

“I appreciate their prayers and support over the years and call for more prayers and support as we work round the clock to improve the lives of our people and deliver sustainable development as promised during the electioneering.

“My prayer is that Allah (SWT) will accept the act of worship and sacrifices of our Muslim brothers and sisters. “Barka De Sallah.”

Funmi Adekoya 

Similarly, the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated the Muslim faithful and entire Osun citizens on the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. 

The governor, in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, extolled the citizens of the state for their exemplary good virtues while urging them to use the occasion of the celebration to rededicate themselves to their creator.

He urged Muslims to use the occasion to spread love through cheerful giving, identifying obedience as key to unlocking the unending grace of Allah.

Governor Adeleke restated the determination of his administration to create a just, harmonious and prosperous state for all and sundry, stressing that a better Osun state beckons under him.

The governor, who stressed the importance of harmony, enjoined the people of Osun state to tolerate one another and live peacefully, noting that development and progress are only possible in a peaceful environment.

He called on Muslim faithful to use the occasion of the Eid ul Adha celebration to renew a sense of sacrifice and brotherhood, saying the lesson inherent in the act of Prophet Ibrahim (ASWM) is that there is reward in obedience.

Governor Ademola Adeleke encouraged the Muslim ummah to exhibit the lessons of Eid-el-Kabir which includes, Faith, patience, love and sacrifices 

Bolanle Adesida

In the same vein, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in felicitating Muslim Ummah called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of selflessness, sacrifice and patriotism in the quest to build a virile and economically viable country.

In his Eid-el-Kabir message, Governor Abiodun said sacrifice, love and unity would lift the country to a greater height.

Governor Abiodun who stressed the need for Nigerians to contribute their quota towards ensuring  national unity and economic growth,

also urged Muslims to follow the example laid down by Prophet Ibrahim.

The governor reiterated the determination of his administration to improve on the wellbeing of the people of the State through various intervention programmes.

While congratulating Muslims on this year’s celebration, Governor Abiodun urged them to pray for the peace and progress of the country.

Mosope Kehinde

In its message to celebrate Eid with Muslims, the Oyo State House of Assembly urged all the Muslims to use the occasion to pray for themselves, the country and the state in particular. 

This is contained in a statement issued by the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Honourable Waheed Akintayo, the Speaker of the House, Right Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin.

Ogundoyin charged them to spread love to the less privileged, orphans and the physically challenged by sharing the festival goodies with them so that they can feel the importance of festive season. 

He also admonished them to pray for directions and guidance for the country’s political leaders, stressing that the country will soon overcome the current hard time it is going through.

The statement also enjoined all well-to-do Nigerians to uphold the teachings of Islam by sharing foods, meats and drinks with their neighbours and other less privileged in the society.

Ogundoyin prayed for the safe return of all Nigerian pilgrims who are currently in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for 2023 Hajj, while assuring Oyo State residents that Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration of Omititun 2.0 will continue to take dividends of democracy to their doorsteps.

Oluwakayode Banjo

On its path, Oyo All Progressives Congress, APC, on the occasion of the Eid-el-adha, urged Nigerians, particularly Islamic faith adherents to use the sacred period to seek Allah’s increased wisdom and guidance on the nation’s leaders to enable them move the country forward.

Eid-el-adha is celebrated globally on the tenth day of the last month of the Islamic (Hijrah) calendar and a day after pilgrims on Hajj exercise have completed possession rites on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia. 

In a special Eid message contained in a statement issued in Ibadan and made available to news men by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC implored Muslims to imbibe the the spirit of faithfulness, altruism and love for humanity as exemplified in the lives of Prophet Ibrahim, his son (Ismail) and the family members. 

“Events in the last one year have further indicated that Nigeria is a divine project as we have been made to appreciate the good plan of Allah (God) for our dear country. The dramatic emergence of the best individual as the APC presidential candidate from a crowd of good aspirants, his electoral victory on February 25, 2023 and his inauguration as the 16th President of in the country, against all odds, remain pointers to the fact that God is involved.

“And now that the global community has been made to see the prospect and promise in the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is important we all support his government in all ramifications. We call on all and sundry to intensify prayers for Nigeria and the world at large so that the desired peace and stability will be entrenched and sustained.

“Meanwhile, Oyo APC uses this medium to congratulate the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Sen.) Mahood Olalekan Balogun, and the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Alhaji Abdulganiy Abubakre (Agbotomokekere) as well as all other eminent leaders and residents of the state on the occasion of Muslim festival while we pray Allah to grant them longevity, bliss and prosperity.” Oyo APC stated.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Tribunal Strikes out Adebutu’s Petition against Abiodun

By Web News 708

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, sitting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, had strucked out the vote-buying allegation levelled against Governor Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress, APC, by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its governorship candidate, Mr. Ladi Adebutu.

Adebutu had dragged Governor Abiodun and the APC to the tribunal, challenging their declaration as the winner of the March 18, 2023 governorship election in the state.

But the governor’s lawyers, led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, in their defence to the petition, made weighty allegations backed up by a police report, establishing that Adebutu and the PDP engaged in vote buying during the election.

On May 22, 2023, Adebutu and the PDP filed a reply to the defence by Governor Abiodun and the APC, also levelling the vote-buying allegation against the ruling party.

The Governor’s lawyers, represented by Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, however, filed an application asking the Tribunal to strike out the reply in its entirety or the alternative, to strike out offending paragraphs from that Reply.

Osipitan argued that the Reply filed by Adebutu and PDP contravenes paragraph 16(1) (a & b) of the Electoral Act and the rules of court pleadings.

While ruling on the matter, the Chairman of the Tribunal, Justice H.N. Kunaza, agreed with the submissions by Prof. Osipitan.

In the ruling, supported by the other two members, Justice J.B. Egele and Justice Sannusi Shehu, the Tribunal overruled Adebutu’s lawyers, led by Chief Goddy Uche, SAN, saying that the application filed by the Governor’s lawyers was not the kind of application that the Constitution requires to be determined at the end of proceedings in judgment.

Relying on relevant provisions of the Constitution, the Tribunal held that only applications that challenge the tribunal’s jurisdiction or the competence of a petition will be deferred till judgment whereas the application filed by Governor Abiodun’s lawyers was not that kind of application.

The Tribunal also held that the Reply by Adebutu and PDP was incompetent for multiple reasons.

The Tribunal identified some paragraphs which contained unnecessary and repetitive allegations, others, which contained arguments and legal conclusions (which are not allowed in replies), and some paragraphs which were an improper expansion of the petition earlier filed.

The Tribunal noted that in their petition, Adebutu and PDP alleged that Governor Abiodun and APC committed corrupt practices during the gubernatorial elections.

The Tribunal further noted that vote buying is a specie of corruption and that if PDP and Adebutu truly believed that APC engaged in vote buying, the petitioner ought to have included those allegations in their petition from the start, which they did not do.

The Tribunal noted that if the Reply filed by Adebutu and PDP was permitted, there was a risk of prejudice, surprise, or even shut out Governor Abiodun and APC on the issues raised in that Reply.

The Tribunal denounced Adebutu and the PDP for coming up with the vote-buying allegation only after APC and Governor Abiodun had done the same against them.

With this backdrop, the Tribunal unanimously concluded that Governor Abiodun and APC would be prejudiced if the Reply filed by Adebutu and PDP is allowed.

The Tribunal held that when Governor Abiodun and APC filed their defence, they joined issues with Adebutu and PDP; that by joining issues, the parties fixed the dispute; and that it was improper to go outside those issues in the Reply.

The Tribunal also found that it was unnecessary to file a Reply in the circumstance, as held in several decisions of the Supreme Court and the Appeal Court.

The Reply was accordingly struck out.

Jelili Owonikoko, SAN, represented INEC, while the APC team was led by Chief Onyeazu Ikpeazu, SAN.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Lifestyle

Oyo APC Congratulates Zacchaeus Adedeji on Appointment

By Web News 1016 Post a comment

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state has expressed its delight over the appointment of the former commissioner for finance in the state, Mr. Zaccheus Adelabu Adedeji, as the Special Adviser on Revenue to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as well-deserved and a step taken in the right direction.

Adedeji, who served as a commissioner in the first term of the APC’s administration of late Governor Abiola Ajimobi between 2011 and 2015, was named among the eight Nigerians recently appointed as aides to President Tinubu.

Oyo APC, in a statement issued in Ibadan and made available to journalists in Ibadan at the weekend, said that “Adedeji was one of the best brains around while his appointment was expected since Mr. President had a record of putting the round peg in a round hole.

“We have no doubt that Zacch is a seasoned technocrat and a reputable financial engineer who will do well in the area of improving revenue generation for the federal government and thus facilitate the desire to turn around the nation’s economy and guarantee a better quality of life to the citizenry. With his exploits as a key player in the corporate world and as the commissioner for finance under our late leader (Sen. Ajimobi), President Tinubu has got another opportunity for him to prove his mettle and we are cocksure he would deliver.

“Our State Chairman, Hon. Isaac Omodewu, who was also a commissioner at the time Adedeji served is particularly gladdened by this development and he has charged the new appointee, and others expected to join him at the centre soon, to be good ambassadors of Oyo APC and go all out to make a huge positive difference in the Tinubu administration which has taken off on a sound footing.

“We congratulate Zacch Adedeji who is loved by all party faithful in view of his attributes as a cerebral, generous, and amiable patriot. It is therefore expected that he would use his new office to further showcase himself as a man imbued with core values, management expertise and passion for excellence.” Sadare added.

 Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

10th National Assembly will follow rule of law – Oseni

By Web News 589

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The 10th National Assembly will be committed to the rule of law and legislative activities that will move the nation forward.

Member representing Ido/Ibarapa East Federal constituency of Oyo State at the House of Representatives, Mr Aderemi Oseni gave the assurance in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Ibadan.

Mr Oseni, expressed optimism that members of the 10th National Assembly would not disappoint Nigerians.

He also promised his constituents of quality representation, as well as, bringing dividends of democracy closer to the people.

He said his experience in the private sector had prepared him well enough for the task ahead at the Green Chamber.

Mr Oseni congratulated the new leadership of the National Assembly, urging them to run an all inclusive administration.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Benjamin Kalu Becomes Deputy Reps Speaker

By Web News 858

A member of the House of Representatives representing Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, Benjamin Kalu, has emerged as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives for the 10th National Assembly. 

The anointed candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged unopposed at the inauguration of the 10th House of Representatives on Tuesday in Abuja.

He was subsequently sworn in at 12:21pm on Tuesday.

Kalu takes over from the Deputy Speaker of the 9th National Assembly, Idris Wase.

The emergence of Kalu followed the election of a member from Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, Tajudeen Abbas as Speaker of the Green Chamber.

Abbas defeated Wase and Aminu Jaji in a voice vote on Tuesday at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

Abbas scored 352 votes of the total 359 votes cast while Jaji and Wase polled three votes each.

In the just-concluded elections, the ruling APC secured over 170 of the 360 seats in the green chamber, the highest by any party. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) came second with over 100 seats, the Labour Party (LP) with over 35 seats, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) with about 20.

Many APC lawmakers had indicated interest to emerge the next Speaker of the House. They include Wase, Jaji, Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, Yusuf Gagdi, Aliyu Betara,  Abdulraheem Olawuyi, Princess Onuoha, amongst others but all others stepped down with the exception of Wase and Jaji.

Earlier, Senator Godswill Akpabio from Akwa Ibom State was elected the President of the 10th National Assembly after he defeated Senator Abdul’aziz Yari.

Meanwhile, Senator Jibrin Barau, who represents Kano North Senatorial District, also emerged unopposed as Senate Deputy President, succeeding Ovie Omo-Agege.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp

Politics

Our NASS members will support your developmental plans – Oyo APC to Tinubu

By Web News 610

By Oluwakayode Banjo

As the 10th National Assembly is due for inauguration on Tuesday, the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Oyo State has assured President Bola Tinubu that all its twelve members in both the Red and Green Chambers would not only key into the developmental plans of his administration but also remain loyal, committed and steadfast as they are being positioned to serve in greater capacity. 

Oyo APC has all the senators-elect from the three districts of Oyo South, Oyo Central and Oyo North as well as nine out of the 14 members-elect to the House of Representatives as its members. 

Five of them are elected as federal lawmakers for the first time while six are returning either for the second or third with the exception of Senator AbdulFatai Buhari who is now set for his third term in the Senate after he had previously spent a term in the Green Chamber between 2003 and 2007.

In a statement issued on Monday and made available to journalists in Ibadan by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, Oyo APC boasted of the quality of all its representatives in the 10th Assembly describing them as “men and woman of competence, enviable track record and proven integrity who would are poised to contribute their quota to the growth and development of their father land under the current dispensation and beyond.”

“As a progressive people, we had looked forward to an auspicious period like this when we would have an individual blessed with the combined wisdom and foresight of Chief Obafemi Awolowo as well as the courage and doggedness of Bashorun MKO Abiola to direct the affairs of this great nation. Now that we have a tested and trusted democrat who also understands the dynamics of public administration at the helms of affairs of our dear country, it is imperative we join hands with him and ensure that he does not fail.”

“To this end, we have realized that the legislative arm would play a key role in the task ahead of Tinubu administration and this makes it important for Mr. President to have people of like minds in both Chambers as allied partners. As a matter of fact, President Bola Tinubu would find all Oyo APC members in the National Assembly loyal subordinates and passionate patriots who would always be ready to support his vision and ideas as far as moving the nation forward is concerned.”

“Apart from ’emeritus’ Senator Buhari, we are also having seasoned professionals and committed patriots in Barrister Sarafadeen Alli and Dr. Yunus Akintunde who would be operating from the Senate while other diligent and experienced democrats would be discharging their respective duties from the House of Representatives. These include; Honourable Tajudeen Abisodun Kareem, Honourable Akeem Adeniyi, Honourable Akin Alabi, Honourable Olaide Akinremi, Honourable Tolulope Akande-Shadipe, Honourable Olaide Muhammadah, Honourable Aderemi Oseni, Honourable Olafisoye Akinmoyede and Honourable Olamijuwon Alao-Akala.”

“With the job done by the leadership of the APC in Oyo State in partnership with all the party candidates including, Senator Teslim Folarin, to deliver a total number of 449,884 votes to Senator Bola Tinubu and Senator Kassim Shettima in the last presidential election, we have demonstrated that we shall always identify with the cause of Mr. President and also ensure that he succeeds in everything he does to promote democracy, rule of law and also deliver good governance to the people of Nigeria.” Oyo APC stated.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Minority Caucus Splits over House Speakership Race

By Web News 507

The controversy trailing the race for the speakership of the 10th House of Representatives has split the minority caucus.

This became visible when a faction known as the minority parties forum adopted the APC consensus candidates, Tajudeen Abass and Benjamin Kalu for speaker and deputy speaker.

The minority parties forum at the meeting attended by 68 members settled for Abass and Kalu sequel to a motion moved by Tijani Abdulkadir of the NNPP from Kano state and seconded by Agbodike Pascal of APGA from Anambra state.

The leader of the forum, Iduma Igariwey of the PDP from Ebonyi state, affirmed the adoption of the APC-backed lawmakers for speaker and deputy speaker.

Igariwey said the decision would be discussed in the next few days by the larger caucus of the minority parties.

On the other hand, the spokesperson of the other faction, Afam Ogene, at a meeting in Abuja said they would no longer contest for the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the incoming 10th National Assembly.

This according to him was because no one has presented himself/herself for the offices.

Ogene revealed that they have also met with those aspiring for the position of Speaker of the House of Representatives but because they have not briefed their members, he will not go into details of the interface.

FRCN Abuja / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTubeChannels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Judiciary

Osun National Assembly Election Tribunal Begins Sitting Tuesday

By Web News 1688

By Adenitan Akinola 

The inaugural sitting of the Osun State National Assembly and House of Assembly election petitions tribunal will commence Tuesday.

38 petitions have been filed by various political parties and candidates challenging the outcome of the 2023 elections.

The Tribunal consists of 2 panels with one handling petitions connected with the National Assembly elections, while the other one will adjudicate on matters with respect to the House of Assembly elections.

The Secretary of the tribunal, Alhaji Mohammed Mogaji told Radio Nigeria that there were three petitions in the Senatorial contest, nine for the House of Representatives seats and twenty-four for the state House of Assembly seats.

Alhaji Mogaji said some of the parties filed applications and were granted reliefs to inspect election materials, but did not eventually bring any petition.

Surprisingly, the major opposition party during February and March elections in Osun State, the APC only presented petitions in federal and state House of Assembly constituencies, while the ruling PDP is challenging the only House of Assembly seat won by the APC.

Thirty-four of the petitions were filed by the Action Alliance Party which finished in a distance 5th position in the election, while the NNPP filed only one.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Politics

Former Lawmaker Gives Gov. Oyebanji Plaudits

By Web News 537

By Kazeem Ayodeji

A former lawmaker and member of the Social Democratic Party, SDP Mr Bimbo Daramola, has described Governor Biodun Oyebanji as a huge blessing to Ekiti, saying the governor’s scorecard may influence his return to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Mr Daramola, who represented Ekiti North Federal Constituency One in the House of Representatives stated this when he paid a visit to Governor Oyebanji in Ado Ekiti.

He said his visit was informed by the need to identify with Mr Oyebanji for his overwhelming performance and achievements in all sectors within the short time he assumed office, calling on the governor not to waver in his transformation drive.

Mr Daramola, who was also a candidate of SDP in the last National Assembly election in Ekiti State, confirmed that there was a possibility of returning to the APC owing to the fact that the Ekiti State helmsman was demonstrating an inspiring leadership quality that had captivated him and rated the governor’ performance eighty percent.

According to the former lawmaker, Mr Oyebanji’s all-inclusive style of leadership and excellent performance in Ekiti was a good sign that the state would witness tremendous development in all ramifications, as he urged the people of the state to give him the needed support to deliver on his mandate.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp

Politics

APC’s Babatunde Wins in Ekiti, PDP’s Adigun Clinches Oyo Reps Seat

By Web News 604

By Amos Ogunrinde/Mosope Kehinde

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Ekiti State has declared the APC candidate for Ido Osi Constituency 1 of the State House of Assembly, Mr Fawekun Babatunde as the winner of the Supplementary Election held on Saturday in the area.

A statement by the INEC’s Head of Voter Education and Publicity, Mr Temitope Akanmu in Ado Ekiti says the APC candidate, Mr Babatunde Fawekun polled four thousand, seven hundred and sixty-four (4,764) votes to beat his closest rival from the SDP, Mr Fadahunsi Ishola Who got four thousand, two hundred and four (4,204) votes to come second.

According to the statement, seven political parties fielded candidates for the Supplementary Election.

The statement appreciates the people of the Ido Osi constituency one for their peaceful conduct which led to the success of the exercise.

Similarly, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP and the incumbent lawmaker representing Ibadan Northeast/Southeast Federal Constituency, Mr Abass Adigun has been declared the winner of the Supplementary elections held on Saturday in Oyo State.

Mr Adigun polled a total number of twenty-eight thousand, one hundred and eleven votes (28,111) to defeat his closest rival, a one-time House of Reps member, Mr Dapo Lam Adesina of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who polled twenty-seven Thousand three hundred and thirty-eight votes (27,338).

Declaring the winner, Professor Benjamin Olley of the University of Ibadan, said Mr Abass Agboworin, having satisfied the requirements of the law was returned elected.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

Controversy as INEC Declares Binani Winner Of Adamawa Guber Poll

By Web News 459 Post a comment

By Olaolu Fawole

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Senator Aisha Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress, APC, popularly known as Binani, as winner of the Adamawa Governorship election.

Prof Hudu Yunus Ari, the Resident Electoral Commissioner of Adamawa, declared Binani as winner midway into the collation.

Results from 10 out of the 20 local government areas had been declared while the exercise was adjourned till 11am.

However, Ari made pronouncement an hour before the scheduled time.

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was leading before the pronouncement was made.

BREAKING: INEC Suspends Adamawa Gov Poll, Summons REC

Some PDP supporters in the hall had protested why the announcement was made by the REC instead of the returning officer.

INEC had declared the 18th March, 2023 governorship election in Adamawa State inconclusive due to violence recorded in some polling units

Politics

Rerun: Oyo APC Urges Electorate to Honour Tinubu by Voting Shadipe, Lam-Adesina

By Web News 503

By Oluwakayode Banjo

As relevant stakeholders warm up for this Saturday’s supplementary election in some polling units in two federal constituencies in Oyo State, the All Progressives Congress, APC, has expressed optimism that it would emerge victorious urging the electorate to honour the president-elect, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, by voting its candidates at the poll.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had declared April 15, 2023 as the date for the conduct of fresh elections in two polling units in Oluyole Federal Constituency as well as three each in both Ibadan North East and Ibadan South East local government councils which make up another federal constituency following reported infractions which necessitated the inability of INEC to declare winners in the February 25 presidential and national assembly elections.

The leadership of Oyo APC, in a communiqué issued after an extended Executive Committee Members meeting held on Wednesday at the Oke-Ado State Secretariat of the party, reiterated support for Mrs Tolulope Akande-Shadipe and Mr Dapo Lam-Adesina who are seeking to represent Oluyole and Ibadan North East/South East federal constituencies for second term respectively, “because the two candidates remain the best option as representatives of their people at this time”.

“The duo share similar attributes of competence, experience and responsibility, unlike the candidates of the PDP and other parties in the contest. It is in this regard that we are urging voters in the affected polling units to go for the best and reject those who would only go to Abuja to warm the bench. We also urge the electorate to be mindful of the fact that voting the candidates of the APC would further cement the confidence which Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has developed in them as he prepares to start reciprocating the gesture as soon as he is sworn in on May 29”.

In the communiqué, stakeholders also passed a vote of confidence on the Isaac Omodewu-led State Executive Committee, “which delivered the biggest winning votes for the president-elect, delivered the three Senatorial and eight House of Representatives seats”.

“We make bold to eulogize all the leaders, stalwarts and loyalists of our Progressive party for the yeoman’s job which they did before, during and after the general election. We single out the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin, for his rare demonstration of courage and statesmanship as he forged ahead in spite of all odds to make a loud statement as a democrat and dogged fighter”.

“Meanwhile, we kick against the surreptitious moves being made by some unscrupulous political jobbers to twist facts and present themselves as the facilitators of the electoral feat recorded for the APC on February 25 with a view to getting juicy appointments and patronage from the president-elect. Also, we would like to use this medium to announce that the doors of our party are open to people from other political parties to come on board while nobody would be discriminated against whether as a new or returning member.” the communiqué read.

The stakeholders’ meeting was attended by all state executive committee members as well as chairmen, secretaries, women and youth leaders of the party from across the 33 Local Government Councils in the state.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Religion

Fear of God, panacea to rising decadence – Islamic Cleric

By Web News 464

By Omolara Adasofunjo

An Islamic Scholar, Imam Hamad Yakub wants Nigerians to always exhibit the fear of God and pay more attention to values as the tool for checking the rising wave of decadence in society. 

The imam of Abdul Azeez Central Mosque, Ebute Meta, Lagos State made the call during this year’s Ramadan lecture of Radio Nigeria Paramount FM, Abeokuta. 

Imam Yakub who lamented that parents and guardians had neglected family values as the foundation for building good character also encouraged the people to embrace discipline, honesty, good conduct and justice. 

Addressing the gathering, the chairman of the occasion and spokesman of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Ogun State, Alhaji Tunde Oladunjoye identified poor parental control as a challenge to raising morally upright children. 

Alhaji Oladunjoye urged clerics to adopt strategies that would make the religion more attractive to the youth.

Earlier, General Manager, Paramount FM, Abeokuta  Mr Akinyinka Akintola represented by the Manager Programmes, Mrs Tolulope Onafowokan had urged the faithful to always take advantage of the Ramadan period to renew their commitment towards doing good to others. 

In a remark, the chairman of the Ramadan Lecture Planning Committee, Alhaji AbdulQadri Oyinlola expressed gratitude to almighty Allah for making the program a success.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Security

APC, PDP Tell DSS to Arrest Interim Government Plotters

By Web News 449

The presidential campaign councils of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party have challenged the Department of State Services to get tough with plotters of the interim national government.

The councils, in separate interviews with The PUNCH on Wednesday in Abuja, said the push for the ING was unconstitutional, adding that the plotters should be arrested.

They spoke against the backdrop of a statement issued by the security agency that some people were plotting the ING.

The DSS had earlier on Wednesday raised the alarm over a plot by some Nigerians to thwart the May 29 inauguration of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The DSS, in a statement in Abuja by its Spokesman, Dr Peter Afunanya, alleged that those behind the plot planned to undermine civil rule and foist an interim government on the country.

The Independent National Electoral Commission had on March 1 declared Tinubu the winner of the February 25 presidential election.

The APC presidential candidate polled 8,794,726 votes to defeat the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar, who got 6,984,520 votes and the Labour Party’s Peter Obi that had 6,101,533 votes.

A day after the result was declared, Atiku and Obi at separate press conferences on March 2 rejected the outcome on the grounds that the election was rigged.

Also, a former Anambra State Governor Chukwuemeka Ezeife, stated that Tinubu would not be sworn in as President.

Speaking on Channels Television on March 23, the vice-presidential candidate of the LP, Datti Baba-Ahmed, said the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, must not swear in Tinubu on May 29.

Some protesters under the aegis of the Free Nigeria Movement on Tuesday last week, asked the President, Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) to annul the February 25 presidential election and set up an interim government.

But hundreds of pro-Tinubu protesters, under the aegis of ‘The Natives’, stormed the streets of Abuja on Monday, warning against the imposition of an ING.

However, in the statement it issued on Wednesday, the DSS said it had identified some key players in the plot for an ING.

It stated, “The service considers the plot, being pursued by these entrenched interests, as not only an aberration but a mischievous way to set aside the constitution and undermine civil rule as well as plunge the country into an avoidable crisis. The illegality is totally unacceptable in a democracy and to the peace-loving Nigerians.’’

The security agency alleged that the plot was taking place after the peaceful conduct of the elections in most parts of the country.

It added, “The planners, in their many meetings, have weighed various options, which include, among others, to sponsor endless violent mass protests in major cities to warrant a declaration of State of Emergency. Another is to obtain frivolous court injunctions to forestall the inauguration of new executive administrations and legislative houses at the federal and state levels.

“The DSS supports the President and Commander-in-Chief in his avowed commitment to a hitch-free handover and will assiduously work in this direction. It also supports the Presidential Transition Council and other related bodies in the states.’’

The DSS added that it would collaborate with PTC and other law enforcement agencies to ensure seamless inaugurations in May.

Consequently, the Service strongly warns those organising to thwart democracy in the country to retract from their devious schemes and orchestrations.

“Stakeholders, notably judicial authorities, media and the Civil Society, are enjoined to be watchful and cautious to avoid being used as instruments to subvert peace and stability of the nation.

“While its monitoring continues, the DSS will not hesitate to take decisive and necessary legal steps against these misguided elements to frustrate their obnoxious intentions,’’ it further warned.

Commenting on the plot, the Director of Strategic Communications for the APC PCC, Idris Mohammed, said the DSS should arrest the plotters.

Mohammed warned that the APC PCC would go all out to ensure nothing hinders a smooth swearing-in of Tinubu.

He said, “The APC PCC is aligned with the position of the DSS, which we believe is doing its job. If this statement is coming directly from the DSS itself, it means that it is not an empty allegation. In any case, we believe the security agencies are also there to deal with this kind of situation. That is why they are there. Their duty is to thwart any threat against the Nigerian nation. They should react to it and go the extra mile to pin down those also responsible.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

APC Suspends Boss Mustapha

By Web News 498

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Gwadabawa Ward of the Yola North Local Government Area of Adamawa State has suspended the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha.

The executives of the ward made this known while addressing the media at the Gwadabawa Ward office in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.

According to them, the SGF failed to assist the party at the ward level in the 2023 general elections.

They alleged that Mustapha did not give a helping hand during the presidential and governorship elections in the state.

The secretary of the APC in the ward, Abdulkarim Nuhu, however, did not state when the suspension will end.

Vanguard/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group 

Politics

26-Year-Old Lady Wins Kwara Assembly Seat

By Web News 579

26-year-old Rukayat Shittu has won a seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly.

Rukayat, a former Senate President of Congress of NOUN Students (CONS), will represent Owode/Onire constituency, Asa local government of Kwara State.

In the result announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer, Professor Hakeem Ijaya, the lady who contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scored 7,521 votes to beat her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rival who polled 6,957 votes in Saturday’s exercise.

Meanwhile, INEC has declared the Kwara State Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon Yakubu Danladi-Salihu of the APC winner of the Ilesha-Gwanara state constituency after edging out his main contestant, Usman Abubakar of the PDP.

Declaring the result at the collation centre for the Ilesha/Gwanara constituency at the Gwanara LGEA Primary School, the Returning Officer, Dr. Adewale Rafiu, said he polled 14, 949 votes while his closest rival got 2,072 votes.

“Yakubu Danladi-Salihu of APC having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected,” Dr. Rafiu declared.

In his acceptance speech, the Speaker lauded his constituents for their massive support that culminated in his victory, assuring them that he would continue to prioritize their welfare.

“I wish to thank my constituents for the show of love and massive support that earned me this sweet victory at the poll, I’ll continue to appreciate and reciprocate this rare gesture with another superlative performance in office while prioritizing people’s welfare,” he stated.

With this result, Danladi-Salihu has now won the seat of the Ilesha-Gwanara constituency for a second term.

Channels/Olaolu Fawole

Politics

Breaking: Makinde Declared Winner of Oyo Guber Race

By Web News 550

Oluwayemisi Owonikoko/Mosope Kehinde

Governor Seyi Makinde has been declared the winner of the Oyo state Gubernatorial election.

Declaring the result, the returning officer for Oyo State, Professor Adebayo Bamire announced that Engineer Seyi Makinde of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP polled a total of 563, 756 votes to defeat his closest opponent Senator Teslim Folarin of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who polled 256,685 votes.

675votes while Accord governorship candidate, Chief Bayo Adelabu garnered 38,357

Professor Bamire who is the Vice-Chancellor, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife gave the number of total votes cast to stand at 88,9592 and Rejected votes to include 14,920

According to the results as announced, Governor Seyi Makinde won thirty-one out of the thirty-three local government areas of Oyo state, while Senator Teslim Folarin won two local governments

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Politics

BREAKING: INEC Declares Tinubu Winner of Presidential Election

By Web News 695 Post a comment

The Independent National Electoral Commission has declared the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, as the president-elect.

Tinubu, a former Lagos State governor, was declared the president-elect after the 70-year-old polled 8,794,726 votes to win the 2023 presidential election.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, announced Tinubu as the winner at the International Collation Centre in Abuja during the early hours of Wednesday.

Tinubu won the election ahead of other contenders — the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Atiku Abubakar; the Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi; and the New Nigeria Peoples Party candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The three leading presidential candidates won in 12 states each while Kwankwaso claimed only Kano State.Tinubu edged Atiku, a former vice president and his closest challenger, with no fewer than 1.8 million votes.

The PUNCH reports that the 2023 presidential election is the first time that Tinubu contested for the nation’s top job.

The former senator left office as a two-term governor of Lagos State in 2007 and is credited with leading the coalition that ousted the PDP from power in 2015 and has extended his influence beyond the South-West region in recent years.

Aside from Tinubu; Obi; Atiku, and Kwankwaso, other candidates that gunned for the nation’s oval office include Dumebi Kachikwu of the African Democratic Congress; Kola Abiola, People’s Redemption Party; Omoyele Sowore, Africa Action Congress; Adewole Adebayo, Social Democratic Party; Malik Ado-Ibrahim, Young Progressive Party; Prof Christopher Imumulen, Accord Party; Prof Peter Umeadi, All Progressives Grand Alliance; and Yusuf Mamman Dan Talle, Allied Peoples Movement.

The list also includes Hamza Al-Mustapha, Action Alliance; Sani Yusuf, Action Democratic Party; Nnnadi Osita, Action Peoples Party; Oluwafemi Adenuga, Boot Party; Osakwe Felix Johnson, National Rescue Movement; and Nwanyanwu Daniel Daberechukwu, Zenith Labour Party.

A tally of the votes announced by electoral officials from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Tinubu, in Borno, polled 252,282 votes across the 27 local government areas and was declared the winner by the state Collation Officer, Prof. Jude Rabo.Atiku and Obi could only garner 190,921 votes and 7,205, respectively while Kwankwaso amassed 4,626 votes.

In Rivers State, Tinubu raked in 231,591 votes from 23 LGAs while the LP scored 175, 071 votes and the PDP polled 88, 468 votes.

The Federal Capital Territory, however, proved to be a game changer for the Labour Party, which floored both Tinubu and his PDP counterpart.

Obi’s popularity in Abuja fetched him 281,717 votes while the former Lagos governor and the former VP shared the remaining slots of 90,902 votes and 74,149 respectively. Kwankwaso also polled 4,517 votes.

But Tinubu made up for his losses in some northern and middle belt states which included Zamfara, Kwara, Kogi, Benue and Kogi States.In Benue, the APC amassed 310,468 votes to relegate LP (308,372), PDP (130,081) and NNPP (4,740) to second, third and fourth places.

In Zamfara State, he polled 298,396 votes against LP’s 1,660; NNPP’s 4,044 and the PDP’s 193,978 votes.As expected, Obi soared above other candidates in Plateau where he won by 466,272 votes compared to APC’s 307,195; PDP’s 243,808 while NNPP settled for 8,869 votes.

The states won by Tinubu so far include Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Kwara, Ekiti, Kogi, Benue, Zamfara and Jigawa, while Atiku emerged victorious in Bauchi, Yobe, Gombe, Kaduna, Kebbi, Bayelsa, Adamawa and Akwa Ibom.

On the other hand, Obi has won Lagos, Enugu, Cross River, Nasarawa, Imo, Anambra, Abia, Delta and Plateau states as well as the FCT.In the final computation, APC polled 8,794,726 votes, PDP amassed 6,984,520 votes, LP scored 6,101,533 votes and NNPP garnered 1,496,687 votes.

Declaring Tinubu as the winner, the INEC boss said, “That Tinubu Bola Ahmed of the APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.”

Punch/Olaolu Fawole