Politics

I won’t support governorship candidate whose age is above 50 – Makinde

By Web News 490

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde says he will not support the candidature of Peoples Democratic Party member whose age is above 50 and 52 years in the 2027 general elections.

He stated this at the Adebo Ogundoyin legislative summit with the theme: Roles of Quality Legislation in Nation Building held at the International Conference Centre, U. I, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde, while emphasizing the roles of youths in nation building, posited that Nigeria needed to catch the nation’s youths young to contribute their quota to the development of the state. 

He called on the youths to dream better and be interested in the governance of the nation. 

He said “I am here this afternoon the encourage the youths. If you go back to the history of Nigeria, after independence in 1960, in 1967, the person that became the maximum ruler was either 29 or 32 years of age, General Gowon. After him, during the Second Republic, former President Obasanjo retired as a general at the age of 39. 

“We should dream big. People have ruled this country at a very tender age. So, for us, don’t think at 29 or 30, you are too young to rule ad I am glad because this is almost like catching them early. You have the students here and in about three years, some of you will be out there to move on. If I were you, I won’t have to start looking for work but start doing my own thing at a very early age of 24 or 25. With the kind of energy you still have, you can pull down the kingdom of Satan. 

“For the Honorable Speaker himself, the opportunity came in 2018 to replace a former Speaker from his Constituency and, at that particular time, he came, I looked at him and felt he was a spoilt chid. That was why I did not support him initially. But, along the line, he became a member of the House of Assmebly. 

“From the data available to us, Oyo State people will give us the opportunity because they wanted to try something totally different. We were coming from a background of no-godfather and the people wanted a change. I told him that was their mood and he agreed with money. So, I predicted that he would win. The election came and turned out to be what we predicted and he became the Speaker. I can see that Osun State is following our footstep. Our people just want us to deliver for them. 

“I am glad that with Debo’s trajectory and this summit, we are moving towards the trajectory where young leaders are now thinking in terms of bridging the leadership vacuum in our country. 

“And also for the students, coming around, seeing young people they can relate with in a position if authority, I think that is enough motivation for them already. It is enough to let them know that they can be responsible. For the students in oyo State, I have signed all the documents that will allow your busary to paid. So, let us just keep pushing so as to ensure that they release the money and you have it physically or I your bank account. 

“The examples I gave about our leaders who led this country as Generals at the age of 29, they are still around up until this moment. But what we need to do is part of what the Honorable Speaker is doing with this type of Summit; bring leaders, look at topical issues and see how we can stimulate ad produce the next step of leaders. 

“So, I am eagerly looking out for the outcome of the Summit and supporting the entrenchment of this initiative so that Nigeria can be better in terms of leadership. If you go to advanced countries, they have a culture of how leaders evolve. 

“For us here, we have seen the common situation where ‘who is your father’ was the order of the day but we have been able to break that in Oyo State. My father was a nobody and the Oyo Stye people still gave me the opportunity to lead. 

“This may be an happenstance but how can we become deliberate in choosing leaders? It is by exposure. Now, the leaders are being exposed and talking to themselves. I made a promise and aired it on radio last December where I said that when I am leaving in 2027, God sparing my life, I will not support anybody that is above 50 – 52 years of age. I know people will fight me because they are being excluded right now. 

“We may not be able to prepare the future for the youths but we can prepare the youths for the future. So, please, don’t see this event as an opportunity to look at the issue of leadership in this country. And, in me, Seyi Makinde, the youths have an ally and we will prepare the leaders of the next generation amongst the youths. 

“We have tried it in Oyo State and it stabilized the House of Assembly and the government as a whole. So, take proper advantage of this kind of gathering and ge prepared for leadership.”

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Politics

LG Poll: Ogundoyin Upbeat about Party’s Chances

By Web News 532

By Mosope Kehinde

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin has expressed confidence in the victory of the Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government in the forthcoming Local Government election scheduled to be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024.

The Speaker gave the assurance at a stakeholders meeting attended by Ibarapa East PDP leaders, Party and Ward Executive members, candidates of the Party in the Local Government election as well as current leadership of the party in the Council.

The candidate of the party in the Local Government, Mr. Kazeem Owolabi Arogundade and his Vice, Mr. Olalowo Olakunle Jacob as well as all the councillorship candidates were in attendance at the meeting.

Mr. Ogundoyin said the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to strategise and assess the level of preparation of the party ahead of the Local Government election. 

He added that the PDP remains the strongest political party in Ibarapa East Local Government hence victory at the poll is non-negotiable.

He said the meeting was to impress it on all stakeholders the need for everyone to work in unison for the victory of the party.

According to the Speaker, the full campaign for the candidates continues in all the major streets, communities, and villages in Eruwa and Lanlate 

” PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government is ready for the Local Government election coming up on the 27th of April, 2024. The stakeholders meeting is to hear from party chieftains and members how far we have gone vis-a-vis our preparation and to also perfect our plans to win convincingly come April, 27. I want to appeal to all our party members to put aside their differences and work together for the victory of the party. We have good and sellable candidates, Hon. Kazeem Owolabi Arogundade (PDP Chairmanship Candidate) and Hon. Olalowo Olakunle Jacob (PDP Vice Chairmanship Candidate) and we shall leave no stone unturned in campaigning for them. ” Oyo Speaker stressed 

Other party chieftains who spoke at the stakeholders meeting pledged their loyalty and commitment to the party.

The meeting was attended by former member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman, Ibarapa East Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Obalowo, Oyo Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss wasilat Adegoke, Hon Ojoawo, a former Oyo State House of Assembly Member, Hon Dimeji Oladapo, Senatorial chairman, Alhaji Kamorudeen Adeyemi, Party Chairman, Alhaji Sikiru Adebisi, Chairman, Oyo State Tipper, Lorry and Quarry Park Management System, Alhaji Akeem Akintola Kuso, Alhaji Kasali Morakinyo, Prince Opadeye and Prince Biodun Olabiyi among others.

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Politics

LG Elections: We won’t leave any stone unturned – APC

By Web News 785

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state have told candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and those of other political parties in the forthcoming local government council election to be prepared for heavy defeat as it would not leave any stone unturned “to rescue the third tier of government from total collapse”.

The stakeholders which comprised some notable leaders, chieftains and members from across the 33 local government councils in the state spoke in similar terms at a meeting held on Sunday at the Oke-Ado State Secretariat of the Oyo APC. The meeting was at the instance of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and deliberations were centred on how APC candidates would emerge victorious in the poll slated for April 27, 2024.

In his opening address; the state secretary, Alhaji Tajudeen Olanite, who stood in for the Chairman, Mr Isaac Omodewu, explained that the participation of Oyo APC in the council poll was a clear indication that the party was not ready to disappoint its members and the entire citizenry on matters relating to democracy, rule of law and good governance as it was prepared to change the narrative of the party in power writing results for its candidates to win all seats.

While delivering his speech; the party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 general election and the current Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, charged all party faithful to do extra work for the success of APC chairmanship and councillorship candidates as he was determined to do. His words; “we are mindful of the fact it is not going to be an easy thing because local government poll is usually the most difficult, especially for a party in opposition but with unity of purpose, commitment and dedication, we can do it.

“As an individual party member, I will do everything within my power to support all our candidates across the 33 LGAs and 351 Wards in the state. We shall begin to walk the talk from today by giving cash support to them. We are not even going to stop at that, we will reach out to other stakeholders in Abuja and elsewhere to mobilize them for the task at hand. I have also asked our supporters, who rejoined Oyo APC with us last December, to cooperate with the party handlers and the candidates of our party. If we are able to work together as progressive family members, victory is sure anytime.

The former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) also used the opportunity to explain the cause of the challenges facing the power sector in the country and the measures being put in place by his Ministry to tackle the problem headlong. “Electricity is so important that no serious government can toy with that sector. The problems we are facing at the moment started about 60 years ago but we would not use that as an excuse. We are doing a lot and very soon, Nigerians will a cause to smile as power supply will become stable nationwide.” Adelabu added.

In his vote of thanks, Alhaji Abu Gbadamosi who spoke on behalf of all party leaders who were present at the meeting, described Chief Adelabu’s decision to identify with the party and its candidates for the council poll as a morale booster coming at the right time. He then urged not to relent in working with others to move the party forward and also ensure that peace and harmony reign supreme with Oyo APC of the 2027 general election when it is hoped that the party would reclaim power in the state.

Party dignitaries who graced the meeting included; Engr. Dayo Lawal, Alh. Mufutau Adisa (Gbayawu), Alh. Kamorudeen Ajisafe, Chief Francis Babalola, Chief C. A Ajibade, Alh. Bello Oladeji (BAO), Hon. Adeyemi Adekola, Hon. Mojeed Olaoya, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, Hon. Tunde Oloyede, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Alesinloye, Alh. Wale Sanusi among others.

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Politics

Shina Peller Defects to PDP

By Web News 588

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remained strong and united in the state and would win the forthcoming local government elections as a result of his government’s people-oriented programmes.

He stated this in Iseyin while welcoming the senatorial candidate of the Accord Party in Oyo North Senatorial District and former member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the APC, Shina Peller, into the PDP.

Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal called on new and old members of the party to work in unison to deliver candidates of the PDP in the local government polls.

The governor urged PDP members, especially in Oke-Ogun and Ogbomoso to support and welcome the defectors with a large heart for the party to continue to wax stronger, as according to him, there is enough room for everyone to operate.

He said: “I want to greet our party leaders and elders who are here at this event. Being progressive without power is zero but we want power in Iseyinland, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso and Oyo State in general. This is why Shina Peller is joining the party that gives power to the people.

“When you are looking for something within a particular place and you don’t get it, won’t you leave the place and go to another place where you can find it?

“I want to assure Peller that he and other followers won’t regret joining the PDP and a lot of benefits will come to them, undoubtedly.

“I want to also greet the Aseyin of Iseyinland, Kabiyesi Oba Sefiu Oyebola. There has been progress in this land during his reign. The developments that each zone in the state has witnessed since Governor Makinde came on board are remarkable and I believe we all want all of these to continue.

“I want to urge the PDP members to join hands together with Peller and his followers for the progress of our party. Let us integrate and support them as we welcome them into our fold.

“We know the local government election is forthcoming and we want the PDP to win in all the polling units.

In a remark, Mr Shina Peller pointed out that the developmental strides and the visionary leadership of Governor Makinde were the reasons for his and his followers’ defection into the PDP.

He pledged their unalloyed support for the continuity of dividends of democracy in Oke Ogun and the state in general through the governor, commending the governor for his laudable project and linking all the zones together through road infrastructure.

Earlier, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, Dayo Ogungbero, who was represented by the Deputy State Chairman, James Olukunle, described the defection of Peller and his followers as a step in the right direction, charging the new entrants to remain loyal and faithful to the party.

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Politics

Court Adjourns Trial of Adebutu over Alleged Vote Buying

By Web News 497

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

A High Court sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital has adjourned the trial of Ogun State Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for the 2023 general election, Chief Ladi Adebutu over allegations of vote buying during the poll until next month. 

The Federal government had arraigned Chief Adebutu and nine others over allegations of vote buying during the March 18 governorship election in the state.

The Federal Government alleged that the PDP Governorship candidate ordered through his bank the issuance of N200,000 preloaded ATM verve cards with N10,000 and distributed same on the day of election across the State with the intent of inducing voters.

At the resumed hearing yesterday, the Federal Government’s counsel, Mr Rotimi Jacobs called three witnesses, including an official of a digital payment company and the witnesses were all cross-examined by the Defense Counsel, Mr Gordy Uche. 

The Prosecuting Counsel later told journalists that they had plans to call more witnesses to prove the case while the defence counsel said, they would be back here to continue with the evidence.

The Presiding Judge, Justice Abiodun Akinyemi later adjourned the case until the 19th and 20th of March March for continuation of hearing. 

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Politics

Arong Replaces Effah-Attoe as PDP National Woman Leader

By Web News 611

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has appointed Amina Arong from Cross River State as the party’s new national woman leader.

In October 2023, the party announced the death of its National Woman Leader, Professor Stella Effah-Attoe.

Effah-Attoe, a member of the PDP National Working Committee, according to the family, died after a brief illness.

The party in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on Wednesday, announced that Arong, who holds a Diploma in Banking and Finance and a B.Sc. in Accounting is to serve out the term of Effah-Attoe, who died on Sunday, October 29, 2023.

The statement read in part, “The new National Woman Leader brings on board to the national leadership of the PDP her intellectual capacity as well as experience, competence and vigour in mobilizing women for the Party at both the State and National Levels.

“The PDP notes with satisfaction. Arong long-standing commitment to the growth of the Party particularly her leading roles in the mobilisation of several Party Women and Youth groups at various levels as well as in the conduct of Party Primaries and Congresses in several parts of the country.

“The PDP congratulates and tasks the new National Woman Leader to deploy her capacity and experience in working with other members of the National Working Committee for the continuing stability, growth and success of our great party.”

Punch/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Politics

Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in PDP, APC’s Appeals against Otti

By Web News 451

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeals by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, against the election of Alex Otti.

The five-man panel led by John Okoro adjourned the matters for judgments after taking arguments from parties involved in the matter.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos had dismissed the petitions by the Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Okey Ahiwe, and Ikechi Emenike of the APC.

The APC and PDP are asking the apex court to nullify the election of Otti of the Labour Party as Abia State Governor.

Details later.

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Court Affirms Anyanwu as PDP National Secretary

By Web News 473

By Ifeoma Nwovu (Abuja)

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has declared Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the valid national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

Delivering judgment, Justice Inyang Ekwo made an order of injunction, restraining the national leadership of the PDP from appointing any person as acting national secretary when Anyanwu’s four-year tenure is still running and subsisting until Dec. 9, 2025, in line with the party’s constitution.

Justice Ekwo also declared that any meeting held or resolution reached by the party to prematurely remove or prevent Anyanwu from exercising the powers of his office would be in violation of Article 47 (1) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017), and would become null and void with no effect.

The judge also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, from recognising any purported appointment of any person as national secretary of the party whether in acting capacity or otherwise other than Anyanwu, the elected national secretary of the 1st defendant (PDP).”

The court had, on November 23, last year, stopped the PDP from removing Anyanwu as National Secretary pending the hearing and determination of the substantive matter.

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Governance

Adeleke Warns Political Appointees against Corruption

By Web News 320

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has warned political appointees against corruption and abuse of office in their various ministries and agencies.

The governor gave the warning at the 2024 prayer programme of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Osun State where he was also endorsed as the governorship flag bearer of the party for 2026 guber polls.

Addressing party stakeholders and top officials of the state government, Governor Adeleke advised the political appointees to be mindful of public service regulations and beware of self-serving postures as they are in office to serve the people.

“Let me use this opportunity to warn our party members holding various offices to be good representatives of the party. We are a party of law and order, due process and rule of law. We must comply with the law in all our doings.”  Senator Adeleke said.

“Appointees must know their rights and responsibilities. As board members, you are not to be involved in the day-to-day running of the agency. That is the turf of the management of the agency. But as a board, you have supervisory roles on the management in line with policies you set at your board meetings and in line with laws setting up the agency. All appointees must take note of this separation of functions.” He said.

Governor Adeleke maintained that his administration would not tolerate corruption and abuse of office and powers either by appointees or management of the agencies declaring it will impose heavy sanctions on those who breach state laws.

While calling on PDP party members to unite for the good of the party and the state, the governor said the reconciliation process has commenced stressing that there would be no more segregation.

Speaking on behalf of the State Working Committee, the State Publicity Secretary, Mr Ayodeji Areola, said the party has declared that the 2026 governorship ticket of the PDP in Osun State is for Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Also, the Osun State chairman of the party, Mr Sunday Bisi, eulogised the state governor for making the party proud since the assumption of office, noting that the prayer session was to thank God for the past’s successes and the future’s victory.

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Politics

Ondo PDP Suspends Chairman

By Web News 433

By Olumide Abudu

The state working committee of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Ondo has announced the suspension of its chairman, Alhaji Fatai Adams, over alleged anti-party activities.

According a to communique signed by nine members of the party’s state working committee, made available to newsmen, the suspended chairman is also alleged to have engaged in activities likely to bring the party to disrepute.

Alhaji Adams was also advised to present himself before a disciplinary committee within the next week.

Meanwhile, the suspended Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Ondo State, Alhaji Fatai Adams says his alleged Suspension Plots were Politically Motivated.

Alhaji Adams in a telephone interview with Radio Nigeria described the purported suspension by some of the State Executive Council members of the party as illegal and unfounded 

He emphasized that it was a plot to remove him so that they could hatch their plans for the Akoko North East/North East Federal Constituency Bye-election.

While stating that he remains the chairman of the party in the State, he maintained that the party will not be taken over by unscrupulous elements who are out there to destroy the democratic values which the party is known for.

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Politics

Oyo LP Governorship Candidate Congratulates Tinubu on Supreme Court Victory

By Web News 493

By Olawale Asake

Oyo State governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 General Elections, Mr Tawfik Akinwale has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his victory at the Supreme Court, signalling the end of litigation.

In a statement, Mr Akinwale urged the appellants, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, and Mr Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP, to rally behind the president and support his administration with valuable suggestions on policies and ideas that could be crucial in the journey of making country thrive.

The former governorship candidate implored every Nigerian to unite in support of the government through prayers for the success of the administration and its dedicated team.

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Politics

Ondo PDP Secretariat Allegedly Under Lock

By Web News 427

The State Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party in Akure, Ondo State, has allegedly been sealed by the security agencies in the state.

There was a heavy presence of armed security personnel, which included the men of the state police command and their counterparts from the Directorate of State Security, at the entrance of the secretariat on Monday morning. Their vehicles were seen parked at the entrance of the secretariat.

As a result of fear of possible harassment, members of staff of the party did not enter into the secretariat to resume work.

It was gathered that the police alleged deployment in the place was not unconnected with the planned protest by the party youths, over the absence of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu from the state.

The protest was reportedly scheduled to take place Monday.

Efforts to get the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, on the matter were not successful, as she did not pick up at the time of filing this report.

Details later

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Atiku Abubakar Clears Air on Certificate Forgery Allegation

By Web News 461

The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar has explained the discrepancies in his Senior School Certificate Examination, SSCE, certificate.

Atiku offered the clarification through Dele Momodu, one of his aides, on Tuesday in a post on his social media platform, X.

According to Momodu, the clarification became necessary following allegations of forgery against his principal by members of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Some members of the APC had questioned the name ”Sadiq Abubakar” in Atiku’s WAEC certificate as against his other credentials.

However, Momodu said he forwarded the accusations to the former Vice President, who also provided an answer for the discrepancy.

Momodu wrote, ”The APC busybodies have been bombarding me with allegations of forgery against my Principal, ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR (GCON), which I immediately forwarded to him and here is his copious response: ‘Yes I used Sadiq Abubakar to sit for my WAEC and after passing my exams I went to swear an affidavit to say I am the same person as ATIKU Abubakar. I went to ABU as Atiku Abuakar and passed my Exams as Atiku Abubakar. Interviewed as Atiku Abubakar by the Federal Civil Service Commission and hired into the Customs Service as Atiku Abubakar. So where is forgery there?’ – ATIKU ABUBAKAR

”CAN THE APC social media bullies forward the deluge of questions in circulation to their boss and get instant and direct response…
I SALUTE ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR…”

Daily Post / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Politics

Adebutu Vows to Appeal Tribunal Judgement

By Web News 506

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke 

The Governorship Flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the March 18th General Election, Chief Ladi Adebutu has promised to continue to fight for the rights and aspirations of its supporters and the citizens of the State.

Chief Adebutu who was reacting to last Saturday’s judgement through his Director of Media, Campaign Organisation, Mr Afolabi Orekoya described the verdict and process as worrisome and disheartening.

The PDP gubernatorial candidate noted that the Party and its legal team would take the matter to the appellate courts to seek a more equitable and just outcome, while assuring the good people of the State that he would not be deterred by the setback.

He solicited the continued support of all the Stakeholders to join the party in its unrelenting quest for justice and in upholding the principles of democracy.

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Politics

Tribunal Sacks Nasarawa Gov, Declares PDP’s Ombugadu Winner

By Web News 557

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has nullified the election of Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state, declaring PDP’s David Ombugadu as the winner.

Delivering the judgment virtually, Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Ezekiel Ajayi, declared Emmanuel Ombugadu of the PDP as the lawfully elected governor of Nasarawa State

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

Politics

Ogun PDP Poised for Appeal after Tribunal’s Verdict

By Web News 444

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Ogun State, has advised members to regard the verdict of the State’s Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal as a temporary setback that would be challenged. 

Deputy Governorship Candidate of the PDP, Mr Adekunle Akinlade, who gave the advice in Abeokuta, said the party would proceed to the Court of Appeal, while exploring and deploying the necessary resources towards getting justice.

Speaking through his Media Aide, Mr Adelani Azeez, the PDP Deputy Governorship candidate urged the members to remain calm and take solace in the fact that the Tribunal was the court of first instance, pointing out that the party was blessed with a resolute leader in its flag bearer, Chief Ladi Adebutu.

The Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal had dismissed the petition filed by Chief Ladi Adebutu and the PDP against the election of Governor Dapo Abiodun for lack of merit.

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Politics

Tribunal Affirms Gov. Abiodun’s Victory

By Web News 446

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has affirmed the election of Prince Dapo Abiodun of the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the duly elected Governor of the State.

At the end of the proceeding which lasted about 11 hours, the three – member panel, led by Justice Hamidu Kunaza, dismissed the petition of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Chief Ladi Adebutu, challenging the victory of Dapo Abiodun in the March 18, 2023 governorship election.

The PDP and its candidate, Chief Adebutu had petitioned the Tribunal, accusing the INEC, Governor Abiodun and the APC of non compliance with the Electoral Act and corrupt practices during the election, alleging that the governor did not win the majority of votes cast during the election.  

Justice Kunaza who read the lead judgment at about 8.15pm during the Tribunal sitting at Isabo, Abeokuta, held that the petitioners did not successfully prove the allegations of non compliance with the Electoral Act and had not discharged the burden of proof. 

Justice Kunaza maintained that the petitioners failed to prove beyond reasonable doubts, the allegations of non compliance, over voting, disenfranchisement of voters, non qualification of Prince Dapo Abiodun and corrupt practices during the polls.

In separate reactions, Counsels to the APC, Professor Taiwo Osipitan and that of the INEC, Dr Remi Olarubora said the indepth judgement was a landmark and the best history. 

Counsels to the petitioners declined to speak to newsmen as they made their way out of the venue with many party chieftains and supporters while the state deputy Governor, Mrs Noimot Salako – Oyedele who thanked the people for standing firm with the present administration led those who thronged the court in support of Governor Abiodun and the APC. 

Politics

Parties Await Tribunal’s Verdict on Lagos Governorship Poll Monday

By Web News 500

The Lagos State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal will deliver judgment for Lagos State on Monday, September 25, Punch Online reports.

Via a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday, the governorship flag bearer for the Labour Party, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, said that he has been informed that the judgment of the election petition at the tribunal will be delivered on Monday.

He posted, “We have just been informed that judgment on our election petition at the tribunal will be delivered on Monday, the 25th of September.”

On April 11, the Peoples Democratic Party Candidate, Mr Abdul-Azeez Adediran, known as Jandor, and the Labour Party candidate, Rhodes-Vivour, had separately asked the tribunal to nullify governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s re-election and declare them the winners.

Subsequently, on Wednesday, May 24, the tribunal dismissed the petitions filed by the Allied Peoples’ Movement and the Action Peoples Party against the victory of Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, in the March 18 governorship election.

Sanwo-Olu polled 762,134 votes to defeat his closest rival, Rhodes-Vivour, who polled 312,329.

The candidate of the PDP, Adediran, came third with 62,449 votes while the candidate of APM, Funmilayo Kupoluyi, polled 884 and the candidate of APP, Abiola Adeyemi, garnered 259 votes.

The petitions of the APM and APP were dismissed by the Chairman of the three-man Tribunal, Justice Arum Ashom, after the petitioners withdrew them.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Power

Adeleke Hails Ogundoyin on Emergence as Conference of Speakers Chairman  

By Web News 598

By Olawale Asake

The Chairmanship Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State in the forthcoming Local Government Election, Mr. Sola Adeleke has congratulated the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin on his election as the Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement signed and made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

The PDP Candidate congratulated Ogundoyin, describing the accomplishment as icing achievements of his political career with many milestones.

Mr. Adeleke acknowledged Mr. Ogundoyin’s brand of leadership, which he noted had endeared him to many political leaders across the Country. 

He reaffirmed his belief in Speaker’s capacity to bring his wealth of experience and expertise to bear in his new role as the Chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Speakers.

Meanwhile, the Chairmanship Candidate also congratulated the newly sworn-in Commissioner for Youth and Sports in the State, Miss Wasilat Adegoke on her appointment.

Mr. Adeleke emphasized the Governor’s readiness to offer deserving opportunities to the youths, as embodied by the recent appointment of Miss Adegoke as a Commissioner in his Cabinet.

He expressed complete confidence in Miss Adegoke’s capacity to lead the Ministry to achieve new height of successes 

He expressed delights in the opportunities presented to the political leaders from Ibarapa Zone by the Governor.

Mr.Adeleke commended the Governor’s progressive positions towards creating a government that was accountable, inclusive and beneficial to all. 

He pledged his unwavering support to the Governor towards the actualization of his developmental goals for the State, particularly as the Local Government election draws closer.

” I want to appreciate the Governor for the opportunity open to political leaders arising from his leadership.

The PDP Candidate pledged readiness to work collaboratively as an active participant within the Ibarapa political landscape towards realising a prosperous, peaceful and integrated Ibarapa Zone. 

Mr Adeleke urged all citizens to actively participate in the State’s socio-economic and political activities and contribute their quota towards the advancement of their communities and the state at large.

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Politics

Tribunal Verdict: Atiku, PDP to Address World Press Conference Thursday

By Web News 475

The Peoples Democratic Party and its presidential candidate during the February 25, 2023, presidential election, Atiku Abubakar, will today address a world press conference.

This is coming after the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal threw out his case and upheld the victory of President Bola Tinubu.

The PUNCH reports that Atiku and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, rejected Wednesday’s judgment of the tribunal affirming the election of Tinubu.

The Legal Adviser to the Labour Party, Kehinde Edun, vowed to challenge the judgment at the Supreme Court.

Also, Atiku’s Lead Counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, said he had received instructions from his client to file an appeal at the Supreme Court.

He said “The judgment has been delivered but we have not received justice. Luckily, the law has given us leverage to go on appeal to the Supreme Court. We have instructions from our clients to go to the Supreme Court. The struggle continues.”

The PEPT, which began sitting at 9.40 a.m. at the Court of Appeal, Abuja, ruled that the petition filed by Atiku and Obi, and their parties had no merit and unanimously upheld Tinubu’s electoral victory in the February 25 presidential election.

The five-member panel took turns to dismiss the petitions presented by Atiku and Obi against the declaration of Tinubu as the winner of the presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission on March 1, 2023.

The judgment was delivered by the Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Haruna Tsammani, assisted by other members of the panel-Justices Stephen Adah, Monsurat Bolaji-Yusuf, Moses Ugo and Abba Mohammed

Not satisfied by the ruling, Atiku, who is a former Vice President, alongside the PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagun, said they will be addressing a world press on the development.

The conference billed to hold at the NEC Hall, located on the ground floor of the PDP National Headquarters,  will start by 2:30 pm

The invite sent to journalists by the party’s National Director of Publicity read, “Hello Gentlemen of the Press, good evening.

“This is to invite you to a press briefing to be addressed by the Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagun and PDP Presidential Candidate, H.E. Atiku Abubakar, GCON.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Judiciary

Presidential Tribunal Sets September 6 for Verdict

By Web News 744

* Allows Live Broadcast

The much-anticipated verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPT, is expected to be delivered on Wednesday, September 6th.

The Court of Appeal Registrar, Umar Bangari confirmed this to Channels Television on Monday, saying the proceedings will be open to live broadcast by interested television stations.

The Labour Party (LP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), as well as their presidential candidates, had petitioned the tribunal seeking to nullify the election of President Bola Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 presidential election.

Judgement is also expected to be delivered by election tribunals in 25 states for governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly election petitions.

The results of the polls announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are being contested in no fewer than 25 states out of the 28 states where elections were conducted.

 ChannelsTv / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Human Angle

Makinde Promises to Donate Building in Honour of Late Adagunodo

By Web News 431

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has promised to immortalize former National Vice Chairman Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP Southwest, late Olasoji Adagunodo by donating a party regional office in his honor. 

Governor Makinde, who stated this at a commendation service held in his honor at the Oyo State Government House, Agodi, Ibadan said the building would be handed over to the PDP within the next one year before the deceased one year remembrance anniversary. 

While describing late Adagunodo as a stabilizer, a committed leader, Governor Makinde said he impacted positively not only in the political terrain in the South West but Nigeria as a whole. 

Governor Makinde urged the family to take solace in the fact that late Adagunodo lived a life of Integrity. 

In a remark, the Acting National Chairman of PDP, Umar Damagun said the deceased was a team player, who would be missed dearly for selflessness, noting that he left a legacy of perseverance and truthfulness

Others who spoke at the commendation service including former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Deputy National Chairman, PDP, South, Taofeek Arapaja and the PDP Chairman in Oyo State, Dayo Ogungbenro stated that late Adagunodo was a fearless and courageous human. 

Late Olasoji Adagunodo was born in 1961 in Osun state and represented Obokun State Constituency at the Osun State House of Assembly. 

He was the state chairman of PDP in Osun State between 2003 and 2007 and elected as the National Vice Chairman of PDP in 2021.

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Politics

Court Quashes Nnamani’s Expulsion from PDP

By Web News 490

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has nullified the expulsion of Senator Chimaroke Nnamani from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  and described the action of the party as null and void.

Justice James Omotosho in his ruling following a suit filed by Senator Nnamani after the erstwhile National Chairman of the PDP, Dr Iyorchia Ayu led National Working Committee expelled him for alleged anti-party activities, said the party lacks the power to expel him.

Having rejected the expulsion, Nnamani took to the court claiming the Ayu-led NWC had no right to expel him from the party.

The court, however, held that the plaintiff was not given a fair hearing besides the fact that only the National Executive Committee and not the NWC has the power to discipline a member of the National Assembly.

It also held that the NWC cannot validly conduct a disciplinary hearing without according to the plaintiff fair hearing adding that “the NWC cannot validly conduct a hearing and reaching a valid decision of suspending or expelling the plaintiff from membership of the PDP”.

The court, however, noted that the NEC has the power after having given the plaintiff opportunity to be heard insisting “the decision suspending the plaintiff is null and void. The decision expelling the plaintiff is nullified and set aside.”

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Judiciary

INEC Mounts Defence at Presidential Poll Tribunal

By Web News 504

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has opened its defence of the February 25 presidential election before the Presidential Election Petition Court sitting in Abuja.

This is coming after the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the Labour Party, LP, and their presidential candidates had successfully closed their cases penultimate on the 23rd of last month, at the Court.

When the matter came up, INEC’s lead counsel and former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Mr Abubakar Mahmood informed the Court of his plan to call three witnesses to counter the allegations of the Labour Party and its Presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.

Mr Mahmood argued that none of the witnesses was in court due to domestic reasons for him to open the defense and pleaded for an adjournment.

The lead counsel for the petitioner, Dr Livy Uzuoku expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of the electoral body.

However, Chief Wole Olanipekun, who stood for President Bola Tinubu and Prince Lateef Fagbemi, who represented the All Progressives Congress APC did not object to the request for adjournment by INEC.

The Chairman of the Court, Justice Haruna Tsammani subsequently adjourned until tomorrow for the electoral body to commence its defence.

FRCN Abuja/Adetutu Adetule

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Politics

We Will Double Our Pace to Attain Development, Makinde Tells Residents

By Web News 417

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that his administration will double its pace on the path to attaining sustainable development in the state. 

Governor Makinde made this known while playing host to Muslim leaders in the Government and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, who visited him  in his house on the occasion of 2023 Ileya festival.

The governor, who appreciated the Muslim community in Oyo State for standing by his administration during Omituntun 1.0, promised to roll out the names of some new appointees very soon.

He said, “First, I want to thank the Almighty for keeping all of us up until this moment; for us to witness another Sallah.

“About three months ago, we were all still out there campaigning and some people tried to sow the seed of division by introducing religion into the politics in Oyo State. But thankfully, they failed as our people did not listen to them, and we have a united Oyo State.

“We are all here celebrating another Sallah. So, I use this opportunity to greet my brothers and sisters of the Islamic faith for standing by this administration and also to wish them many more Sallah.” 

While appreciating members of his cabinet for their contributions to the success of his administration during the first term, the governor implored everyone to play their part to make Oyo State better and more united.

He said further: “Our people are expectant and they want us to move as fast as possible and we have started. The House of Assembly, on Tuesday, cleared some of our commissioner-nominees. 

“The structure of government will start taking shape in days. So, our people should not despair or think we are moving slowly this time around. No, we are not. We will even double our pace.”

Earlier, the PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, thanked the governor for empowering the people of the state and executing laudable projects.

He also lauded him for exemplifying the virtue of Prophet Ibrahim, who kept his vow to Almighty Allah. 

Ambassador Arapaja said Governor Makinde kept his promise to the people of Oyo State in his first term. He expressed confidence that he would not deviate from that style in Omituntun 2.0.

The delegation included the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi; Member representing Ibadan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency, Hon. Abass Adigun Agboworin; Director-General, Seyi Makinde Campaign Organisation, Chief Bayo Lawal; PDP State Secretary, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke; PDP State PRO, Engr. Akeem  Olatunji; and the PDP State Women Leader, Alhaja Wulemat Ibitoye, among others. 

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