INEC: insecurity threatens Nov 11 governorship polls.

INEC: insecurity threatens Nov 11 governorship polls.

INEC Chairman, Yakubu Mahmood

There is security threat to the November 11 governorship elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa states, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said yesterday.

It added that there is need for the government to bring down the level of insecurity to guarantee free and credible elections.

INEC National Commissioner Mohammed Haruna stated this yesterday during a media engagement in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The electoral umpire implored political  ”actors “ and other stakeholders like security operatives and the media to work for peace ahead of the polls.

It, however,  said  that in spite of the security challenges, it was working assiduously to ensure that the elections turned out successfully.

The commission explained that  of the 13 items mapped out for the November polls in the three states, eight had been taken care of.

Haruna lamented that insecurity in Imo and Kog had resulted in a situation where residents were scared of applying as ad hoc staff for the election in the states.

He said: “We have gone so far with our preparedness for the off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa states.

“But the commission is truly worried about the growing level of insecurity and violence  in Kogi and Imo states. This is unacceptable, unnecessary and not healthy for our democracy.”

Haruna explained that the security situation in Bayelsa a shade better than the situation in the other two states.

He added: “Campaigns in Kogi State have been violent and this is most unfortunate. Our political gladiators and indeed, all citizens, must work towards ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

“It stands to reason that if this situation is allowed to continue, there is the likelihood that people will be afraid to come out to vote, on the election day.

“Already, INEC is having a shortfall in the number of ad-hoc staff needed to superintend over the forthcoming elections. This is because most people expected to work are afraid of their safety.

 ”It is very important that peace prevails otherwise voters will not come out to vote.

“I appeal to all actors to observe peace because at the end of the day, if there is no peace,  there will be no free,  fair and credible election.”

Early this month, there was a renewed insecurity and a series of killings that put residents of Imo State. One of the incidents was in the Umualumaku in  Ehime Mbano Local Government Area   where gunmen attacked and killed five security personnel.

Earlier in  April 21, a group of gunmen killed five police officers and a couple in  Okpala  in Ngor-Okpala  Local Government Area.

Kogi State has also had a series of security breaches, especially kidnappings, of recent. The latest is the kidnap of a medical doctor Austin Uwumagbe, in Ogaminana, Adavi  Local Government  Area. His abductors are demanding N80 million for his release.

Raising the hope that things might change so that the elections will be done under a safe atmosphere, Haruna recalled that  during the preparation for  the  election that produced Prof. Chukwuma Soludo as Anambra State governor,  ”people called on us to postpone the poll,  but INEC went ahead to conduct it and today,  that election was one of the most  peaceful we ever had.”

He also charged media people to adhere strictly to the ethics of their profession by reporting factually, objectively and accurately.

“In reporting the activities of the Commission, pre-election, election, and post-activities, we plead with the media to be factual, objective, and professional in their reportage.”

The INEC chief noted that diatribes heaped on the electoral body in respect of previous elections arose chiefly through inaccurate and unverifiable reports.

He assured  voters hat INEC had put in place the necessary mechanism to guard against the resurgence of the odds that marred previous elections.

Haruna recalled that INEC received kudos for the successful conduct of the last Osun State governorship poll but received bashing from some members of the public over the conduct of the February 25 presidential election due to glitches during the transmission of election results to the IREV.

He said: “We tested the BVAs up to state level and created files for each level, by the time there was this glitch, we were worried because the other elections were perfect.

“But we asked the petitioners if what they have at ward, local government to state levels are  different from what the polling agents presented.

“There was no malice and we will not have such problems in the governorship election and we need the media to tell the story as it is without bias or misrepresentation.”

Imo State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner Sylvia Agu said the commission would continue to see the media as partners in progress.

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) , Ifeanyi Nwanguma described vibrant media and democracy as indispensable instruments for national development.

Credit: The Nation Newspaper.

Meet Ekiti 2 Gold, Sliver and Bronze Medalists from Same Parents.

Meet Ekiti 2 Gold, Sliver and Bronze  Medalists from Same Parents.

Abdulrahman Mustapha and Abdulrahman Fatai stated their goal of becoming Nigeria's and world  top golfer after overcoming Team Brono to win at the golf men's singles finals.

In the golf competition at the National Youth Games in Delta Asaba, The Abdulrahman's  from Ado Grammar School in Ekiti, representing Team Ekiti, defeated Team Brono in sudden death on hole 2.

After winning, the brother Abdulrahman Mustapha expressed his gratitude to God the Almighty, his parents, and coach. 

He emphasised to also appreciate the government of Ekiti  for their support thou far 

He stressed further saying he has  never competed in the National Youth Games before. And  pleased to have won the gold medal. 

The 14-year-old went on to discuss his aspirations for the future, saying that he wanted to be the best golfer player in Nigeria and the world.

He exhorted Ekiti's sports enthusiasts to keep praying for our contigents here .

Congratulations to Ekiti

President Tinubu Celebrates NUPRC Boss Komolafe At 60.

President Tinubu Celebrates NUPRC Boss Komolafe At 60.

President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, as he clocks 60 years of age.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the president commended Komolafe for his meritorious services to the nation in various capacities.

He observed that the various expertises of the technocrat will keep him relevant for other national services in the nation’s quest for quality service delivery.

The statement read: “President Bola Tinubu sends greetings to Engineer Gbenga Komolafe on his 60th birthday, September 26, 2023, felicitating with the engineer and reputable technocrat in the oil industry, who has served the nation meritoriously in various capacities.

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“President Tinubu joins family, friends and associates of the Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to celebrate the former banker for attaining the Diamond Age and his many years of dedicated service to the nation in the Oil and Gas sector at various levels.

“As the NUPRC CEO clocks 60, President Tinubu affirms that Engr. Komolafe’s deep knowledge of the Oil and Gas sector, and his other contributions in Engineering, Economy and Human Resource Management are highly appreciated and will keep him relevant as the nation strives for excellent service delivery and better living standard for her citizens.

“The president prays for more years of greater accomplishments for Engr. Komolafe and wishes him good health and continued service to our nation.”

Spanish Football Club Plans Tributes For MohBad.

Spanish Football Club Plans Tributes For MohBad.

Spanish La Liga club Cadiz CF has said it will hold its own tribute for late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba aka Mohbad.

Recall that the 27-year-old singer died on September 12. His death has continued to generate reactions, the latest being from Laliga side Cadiz CF who expressed heartfelt condolences to family of late singer,

The club announced in a post on their official X page that they would display a Mohbad jersey on their substitute bench during their game against Rayo Vallecano to give the team strength.

They wrote: @iammohbad_ will be with us for tomorrow’s home game against Rayo Vallecano.

The singer’s Cadista shirt will be on the bench to give us the strength we need to win the match.

Labour Party backs NLC, TUC Proposed Strike.

Labour Party backs NLC, TUC Proposed Strike.

The leadership of the Labour Party on Wednesday threw its weight behind the planned industrial action of the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, saying the presidency has been insensitive to the plight of Nigerian workers.

The development is coming in the wake of organised Labour’s resolve to ground activities nationwide from October 3 following the failure of the government to successfully implement policies to alleviate the sufferings of the masses after the removal of fuel subsidy.

After the 21-day ultimatum given by the NLC lapsed last week, the NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, had lamented that none of the demands put before the Federal Government was addressed.

Among other things, the NLC and the TUC are asking for wage awards, implementation of palliatives, tax exemptions and allowances to public sector workers and a review of the minimum wage.

Reacting to the proposed strike in a statement titled ‘Workers strike: Labour Party identifies with Nigerian workers’ on Wednesday, National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, bemoaned that Nigerian workers have shown enough patience and understanding.

While charging supporters of the party to stock up on food, Ifoh warned that the leadership of LP will support any legitimate means to demand better welfare for Nigerian workers.

He said, “We have followed with keen interest, in the last four months, various meetings between Organised Labour and various government bodies including the president of the Senate, the presidency and the ministers of Labour as well as all the efforts made by the Labour leadership to get the government to understand the magnitude of sufferings its policies have thrown Nigerian workers into since the enthronement of this administration.

“We are not in any way surprised at the government’s apparent indifference, insensitivity, intransigence, and recalcitrant posture towards the genuine demands of the Labour bodies because their usurpation of power was not sanctioned by both the workers and generality of Nigerians.

“Nigerians went to the polls with clear conviction of the government they wanted but this was denied them through institutional conspiracy. Today, Nigerian workers are being punished for taking a stand during the February 25 Presidential Election. Labour Party is also aware of the sordid conditions which workers, the majority of them being our members, are subjected to, where many go to the office on a Monday and are forced by the prevailing economic challenges to sleep in their offices all through to Friday before returning home.

“We are also using this medium to inform all our members and supporters to stock their homes with their necessary needs ahead of a long-drawn mass action until victory is ascertained. No retreat, no surrender.”

Advocates for Christian Involvement in Politics: Oyebanji's Call to Action.

Advocates for Christian Involvement in Politics: Oyebanji's Call to Action.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has advocated for greater involvement of Christians in partisan politics, as a way of deepening democracy and development in the country. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Tuesday in his office, in Ado Ekiti, when he received the General Overseer, of Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev'd Sam Aboyeji and his wife, Rev (Mrs) Olabisi Aboyeji, said more inclusive political landscape would lead to policies that better reflect the values and concerns for the people.

The Governor said a good number of Christians who can add value to the system would rather stay out of politics, because of their belief that politics is a dirty game, meant for a certain group of people. Sadly, he said those who avoid politics are not immuned against the effect of bad policies. 

Rather than see politics as a dirty game, Oyebanji said Christians should consider it as a viable opportunity to contribute to nation building, make positive impact on the society and promote the values aligned with God. 

He opined that more Christians participation in politics would also provide moral leadership in politics, promoting honesty, integrity and ethical behavior among elected officials and be a voice for right decision-making and accountability in Governance.

While urging ministers of God and churches in general to play a pivotal role in inspiring and educating their congregation about the importance of civic participation, the Governor admonished the General Overseer not to relent in praying for more development in Ekiti State and the country in general. 

“Most Christians don’t want to come near politics, but the Bible says when the righteous is in authority, the people rejoice. And to get to authority in Nigeria you have to be involved in politics and so when the bible says the righteous must be in authority, there must be a path to get to it and the only path we have now is through political office or appointment. So, we should continue to pray and encourage Christians to participate in politics”. The Governor stated. 

Earlier, the General Overseer of Foursqare Gospel Church, Reverend Sam Aboyeji, who appreciated the Governor for receiving him and his team, despite his busy schedules, commended the Governor’s leadership style, saying he is representing God very well in Governance.

Rev Aboyeji explained that the visit was to intimate the Governor about the activities of the Church in Ekiti, especially the newly planted church and skills acquisition centre. 

The General Overseer said an important aspect of his visit was to to pray and pronounce God’s blessings on the state, adding that God’s hands is upon the state as evident in the level of peace and development being enjoyed. 

Also present at the meeting were Commissioner for Budget, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun; and Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

Gbonyin LCDA Residents Rally Behind Hon. Damilare Ajayi for Second Term as Chairman.

Gbonyin LCDA Residents Rally Behind Hon. Damilare Ajayi for Second Term as Chairman.

.....Unprecedented Development and Commitment to Progress Highlight Ajayi's Candidacy.

In what can only be described as a resounding call for continuity, residents of Gbonyin Local Council Development Area (LCDA) are throwing their unwavering support behind the incumbent Executive Chairman, Hon. Damilare Ajayi, as he seeks re-election for a second term. The groundswell of support can be attributed to the remarkable strides and transformation witnessed under his leadership, firmly establishing him as a beacon of modern-day politics in the region.

During his tenure, Hon. Damilare Ajayi has overseen a slew of impactful initiatives and infrastructure projects that have left an indelible mark on the LCDA. From the heart of the community to its economic lifeblood, every facet of Gbonyin has seen significant improvements.

One of the standout achievements of Hon. Ajayi's administration is the construction of a block of five administrative offices, along with other facilities, which have become central to the efficient functioning of the LCDA. Furthermore, an abandoned building that had languished for years was renovated and transformed into the Executive Chairman's office, breathing new life into it.

Marketplaces across Gbonyin have also received a much-needed facelift under his leadership. Notably, 20 units of market stalls in Ijan Ekiti were renovated, 10 units of open market stalls in Iluomoba Ekiti were constructed, and 20 units of market stalls in Aisegba Ekiti were refurbished. These improvements not only enhance the comfort of traders but also contribute to increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

In a commendable move to bolster security, Hon. Ajayi's administration provided motorcycles for security personnel in Gbonyin LCDA, ensuring better mobility for law enforcement agencies. Township roads have not been left out, as grading and rehabilitation efforts have touched several communities, including Ijan Ekiti, Iluomoba Ekiti, and Aisegba Ekiti.

Additionally, the council's secretariat has undergone a major transformation with the perimeter fencing of the entire premises, enhancing security and tidiness. Regular security meetings and provision of funds for logistics demonstrate the chairman's unwavering commitment to the safety of the LCDA's residents.

However, perhaps one of the most noteworthy aspects of Hon. Ajayi's leadership is his dedication to human capital development. His administration has invested significantly in staff training and retraining through seminars and workshops, ensuring that the LCDA's workforce remains competent and capable.

In the agricultural sector, Hon. Ajayi has tapped into the region's agricultural potential, cultivating large hectares of land for cash crops such as yam, maize, and cassava, thereby contributing to food security and economic growth.

In summary, the achievements and impact of Hon. Damilare Ajayi's administration in Gbonyin LCDA are undeniable. He has demonstrated visionary leadership, a commitment to progress, and a knack for turning challenges into opportunities. As residents unite behind his candidacy for a second term, the message is clear: Hon. Damilare Ajayi is the catalyst for Gbonyin's continued greatness, and his re-election is essential to sustaining the positive transformation of the LCDA.