GRPolitics
2019: Sanction APC Over Early Campaigns, Opposition parties, CSOs Tell INEC
Some opposition political parties and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have decried what they called early open campaign by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) contrary to the time table released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The political stakeholders and the civil rights organisations also called on the electoral umpire to sanction the ruling party for the abuse of electoral guidelines.
Speaking separately in Abuja, the political parties accused APC of carrying out open campaigns across the country contrary to the time table released by INEC.
Recall that the ruling party had staged political rallies, widely televised on national television in Abia, Edo and Kebbi states to officially receive decampees into its fold but the opposition parties were uncomfortable with the outings.
APC, a lawless party — ADP
Speaking in an interview with our correspondent, National Secretary of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) James Okoroma, described APC as “a lawless organisation.”
“The APC is a Lawless Organisation. The APC is the only Political Party that is conducting rallies nationwide. It has started open campaigns and this is against INEC’s regulations. Since APC has nothing to offer in terms of good governance, it has a lot of time for political mischief.
“In the last two weeks, APC has held rallies and campaigns in Abia and Edo states. INEC should have the courage to wield the big stick. Sanctions must be imposed or anarchy will set in.
From all indications, governance will suffer since the ruling Party has commenced open campaigns.
Okoroma called on INEC to call the APC to order, saying “imagine what will happen if other political Parties start doing what APC is doing now. There will be chaos. The political space would look chaotic and riotous.”
It’s unfortunate — SDP
Also reacting to the development, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) expressed disappointment in the ruling party, APC, for allegedly carrying out open campaign.
“It is very unfortunate that it is the party in power, APC which needs all available time to concentrate and address the tons of problems afflicting the country that is breaking the law organising campaign rallies for an election that is about a year away and INEC looks on helplessly.
“If INEC is truly independent as it often wants to make the public believe, let it exercise its power on APC so that other parties can respect the rules, otherwise it will lack any moral ground to challenge any opposition party for jumping the gun too.”
It’s an abuse of Electoral Act — ACPN
For the opposition Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), the open campaign before the time provided by the INEC is a “fragrance abuse of the Electoral Act.”
National Chairman of the party Alhaji Ganiyu Galadima, described the rallies assigned that the ruling party has failed the country.
“The APC Government has failed Nigerian my brother. The rally going about is a panicking rally to create an erroneous impression that all is well in the APC Government and in the party. They are liars.
“Therefore, the APC and other political parties organising rallies all over the place could not have been for the elections in 2019 in fragrance abuse of the Electoral Act, but to mobilise for the APC and its failing Government in Nigeria. If not so, why is the APC leadership so insensitive and callous as to be the political party holding rally all over the country despite the security challenges and wanton killing of innocent citizens in the country.
“I hope that the leadership of the APC, the ruling party in the country would reflect on the present situation in the country and join heads with the President to provide solutions to the issue of herdsmen and farmers ravaging the country instead of engaging in cheap politicking.”
CSOs react
For the Executive Director, Citizens of Impact Foundation (CIF), Comrade Daniel Olatunde, “campaign has not started but like you are aware, everyone in Nigerian including those in government do not obey rules but are a god to themselves as the institutions to maintain law and order are also complacent therefore they are also law breakers therefore Nigeria is a lawless country and a place where everything goes.
It’s an invitation to political anarchy — CISLAC
Executive Director the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said INEC was clear in the time table released ahead of 2019 general elections.
“If politicians will disregard the laws establishing their activities, then there will be anarchy. I think what politicians and their political parties are doing now are now in accordance with the laws establishing INEC. Therefore, INEC need to send warning to political parties and politicians to stop engaging in campaigns because this is not the time according to the INEC time table for campaign. It is important that we follow the Electoral process and INEC guidelines, failure to do this we will be inviting political anarchy.” (Blueprint)
GRPolitics
Minister Commends Guards Brigade for Exceptional Service in Securing the Seat of Government
The Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has expressed profound appreciation for the unwavering commitment and exemplary efforts of the Commander, officers, and personnel of the Guards Brigade in safeguarding the Federal Capital Territory and its environs.
In his remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the 2024 West African Social Activity (WASA 2024) held in Abuja, the Minister stated, “Your loyalty, sacrifice, and dedication in executing your Presidential security duties, coordinating ceremonial parades, and managing operational challenges are commendable. Your proactive approach in addressing security threats has ensured the safety of the Presidency as well as that of citizens, visitors, and diplomats alike. I urge you to continue embodying compassion and empathy in your operations, striving for excellence in all your responsibilities.”
The Minister highlighted that the WASA event serves as a vibrant testament to the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria, as showcased by the personnel and families of the Guards Brigade. “The traditional dances and local delicacies on display tonight not only enhance our appreciation of our diverse cultures but also play a crucial role in preserving our cultural heritage and distinct identity,” he added.
In conclusion, the Minister called upon the Guards Brigade to uphold the trust placed in them by consistently meeting the challenges of their duties and ensuring that the flag of the Nigerian Armed Forces continues to fly high.
Earlier, Major General Adebisi Onosayan, Commander of the Guards Brigade, delivered a welcome address expressing gratitude to the President for his unwavering support of the Brigade’s operations, training, and welfare. “Thank you, Your Excellency. I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for their relentless guidance and support. We pledge our unwavering loyalty and readiness to contribute effectively to the security of lives and property in the Federal Capital Territory and its surroundings,” he emphasized.
General Onosayan further noted that the 2024 WASA highlights the social diversity, cultural identity, values, beliefs, and rich heritage of the Nigerian people, resonating with the ethos of the Nigerian Army. “This event provides an opportunity to showcase various cultural dances, traditional cuisines, languages, attire, and ethnic groups of our great nation in a relaxed atmosphere,” he stated, adding that today’s event marks the Brigade’s Grand Finale.
GRPolitics
Matawalle Commends President Tinubu for Positive Economic Reforms
…Matawalle urges critics to be positive in their narratives
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his robust economic policies and reforms, which are yielding significant positive results for the nation. According to Matawalle, these initiatives are contributing to a turnaround in the economy that will benefits all Nigerians.
In the light of ongoing criticism, particularly from some quarters in Northern Nigeria, according to a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, director information & PR at the Ministry, Matawalle urged critics to be positive in their narratives and called on citizens to remain steadfast in their support for the President and to reject divisive narratives.
“It is crucial for Nigerians to stand united behind Mr. President, who is diligently working hard to revitalize our economy through a series of effective policies, programs, and reforms,” he stated.
Matawalle specifically highlighted President Tinubu’s tax reforms as a pivotal element in the country’s economic turnaround. He explained that these reforms are designed to create a more equitable tax system, which will enhance revenue generation for the government while easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.
“By broadening the tax base and ensuring that everyone pays their fair share, President Tinubu is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth. These reforms will not only increase government revenues but also stimulate investment and job creation across various sectors,” Matawalle elaborated.
He further noted that the tax reforms aim to simplify the tax administration process, making it easier for individuals and businesses to comply. This will foster a more business-friendly environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, which are essential for driving economic progress.
Matawalle also highlighted several key achievements across various sectors, particularly noting improvements in national security. He emphasized that President Tinubu has made substantial strides in enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military through the provision of modern hardware and equipment. Additionally, he assured that military personnel have received timely payment of their allowances and salary increases, which has significantly boosted their morale.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing a renewed commitment to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians, and I encourage everyone to recognize the positive changes taking place,” Matawalle concluded.
The Honourable Minister of State Dr. Mohammed Bello Matawalle has disclosed that the Nigerian Armed Forces have achieved a lot in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other groups that are enemies of the Nigerian State since the advent of this administration but a lot of these success stories are not in the public space due to security reasons so as not to expose the gallant men and women of the Armed Forces who are in the forefront of this fight to danger.
According to a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, director, information and Public Relations at the Ministry, Dr. Matawalle disclosed this during the engagement with the Special Assistant to President on Policy and Coordination/Head of Central Result Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU) Hadiza Bala Usman with the Ministry of Defence when she presented the 1st – 3rd Quarters 2024 Performance Assessment Report on Implementation of Presidential Priorities and Ministerial Deliverable at the Ship House, Abuja.
The Minister also informed the SA to Mr. President that before now, the Nigerian airwaves was always full of news of oil theft, bunkering, piracy and all forms of kidnapping.
But since they assumed office, the country has recorded low occurrence and reduced reports of those activities just as he assured Nigerians of their resolve to do more to make our society safe for all.
Matawalle assured Hadiza Bala Usman of early submission of achievement data to her office for their reviews.
In a similar development, the SA to President advised the Ministry of Defence to put out more data into the public space to avoid doubts and negative feedbacks on the successes achieved by our Armed Forces in the fight against insecurity.
Adding that, regional tour of the troubled areas could be conducted to carry out on-the-spot interviews and first hand assessment of rescued individuals whose response will serve as raw and real data to the populace and as evidence that government is not resting on its oars.
Speaking further during the review of the Q1 – Q3 Report, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni gave a detailed submission on the achievements of the Ministry and promised that the Ministry will do more to surpass previous quarter’s report as he poured encomium on the Chief of Defence Staff and all Service Chiefs for their consistency and tireless efforts in making Nigeria a peaceful and safe place.
Dr. Kana tasked the Directors of the Ministry not to relax in their quest to give their best to the service of our dear country.
