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APC Chairmanship Race: Oshiomhole, Ebri to square up with Oyegun

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Opponents of tenure elongation have carried the day in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Its National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, last night bowed to pressure from governors and party leaders to forego tenure extension.

He has summoned an emergency meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) for 8am today to draw the timetable for state congresses and National Convention.

The meeting will hold before the National Executive Committee (NEC) session begins at 11am.

A member of the NWC said: “We were all shocked to get a text message inviting us for  NWC meeting by 8am on Monday when all we were preparing for was the NEC session.

“Some of us inquired and we were told that the NWC meeting will draw the timetable for state congresses and the National Convention for consideration by NEC. This was what we told him to do last Thursday.

“We suspect that the latest development must have accounted for Oyegun’s U-turn. From the horse-trading so far, all the APC governors have backed out of tenure extension for Oyegun and the NWC.

“We learnt the last governor to ditch him yesterday was Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State.”

Another NWC member said: “I think summoning NWC meeting very early in the morning before NEC amounted to panic on the part of the national chairman.

“Some of us were really amazed when we got the text message. This was the same Oyegun who did not allow us access to the report of the Governor Simon Lalong Committee which was set up by the NWC.

“We had the whole weekend, he did not call for any meeting. Now, he wants to hold a pre-emptive meeting.

“We will go there and listen to what he has in stock for us.”

There were talks last night that Oyegun might seek to recontest based on some governors’ advice. But, it was not clear if he would heed the advice.

If he does, he would have to jostle for the seat again with former Governors Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) and Clement Ebri (Cross River).

Investigation by our correspondent revealed that pro-Buhari governors reached out to NEC members to accept his proposal for elective congresses and National Convention.

As at Friday, no fewer than 21 governors and their state chairmen had conceded that the party should conduct fresh election into party offices in order to avoid running into legal technicality on the nomination of APC candidates for the 2019 polls.

A governor said he and his colleagues chose to rally round President Muhammadu Buhari because his proposal is the first major advice he would give to the party.

The governor said: “To me, I believe the President is facing a major vote of confidence at the NEC meeting. The issue is not about Oyegun or NWC members but it borders on the extent to which we have respect for the President’s views.”

He went on: “Unlike other past Presidents who will force their views on party members, Buhari was democratic enough to render advice and ask party leaders to consider the pros and cons.

“If Buhari’s advisory is accepted, it will be a sign that his voice counts. But where NEC rejects his proposal, he would have lost the confidence of a key organ of the party.

“You can see why we have regarded the NEC meeting as make or break. An endorsement of Buhari’s idea will also foretell his chances in the party if he chooses to seek a second term ticket in 2019.

“So, some of us do not see it as one person hijacking the party structure or not but as a major test of a vote of confidence in Buhari.

“This is why we have prevailed on him to stay behind and be part of the NEC meeting. We do not want any upset for him as designed by some forces. The President has taken his political fortunes for granted because of his new found democratic disposition but we have asked him to take his destiny in his hands.”

Another source said: “The NEC meeting will chart a new course for APC by confirming our ability to look inward to address our challenges without rancour.

“If we get it right at the NEC meeting, it will strengthen the party to prepare for the 2019 polls. Otherwise, we may end up being divided.

“For a party that has barely existed for four years, we cannot afford the luxury of derailing. This is why we are saying that wise counsel must prevail.”

Our correspondent learnt last night that pro-Oyegun governors and party leaders may be seeking “soft-landing” by coming up with the concept of a “guided national convention” which will lead to the return of some NWC members.

Another source said: “A few governors are calling for a guided national convention by which the return of some NWC members will be negotiated and delegates will be advised to vote for them at the convention.

“They do not want to throw away the baby with the bathwater. They believe some NWC members have done fairly well and if their zones still want them, delegates should be asked to endorse them.

“So, instead of a complete overhaul of NWC, the bad elements should go.”

But a NEC member said: “We won’t accept guided convention in view of the manipulation we have gone through in the past few weeks.

“At least, we have secured two-thirds in support of Buhari’s proposal; we will go full blast for state congresses and national convention.

“Any NWC member interested in seeking re-election should canvass for votes. We have also decided that all suits against tenure elongation will be withdrawn if Oyegun and the NWC members concede to elective national convention.”

Another governor, who responded to The Nation’s enquiry said: “We are no longer bothered about the tenure extension debate, we are comparing notes among ourselves on the appointment of the National Convention Committee.

“To some extent, the governors and some leaders of the party have reached a consensus on the list of the convention committee which will be presented to NEC.”

As at press time, it was learnt that some governors were still making a case for Oyegun’s return to office.

A source in Oyegun’s camp said: “Some governors have approached Oyegun to re-contest but he has not made up his mind. I think the outcome of NEC session will determine his next step.”

But there were indications that Oyegun’s return has been rejected by Edo APC which is insisting that he must quit.

“The APC leaders in Edo actually do not want Oyegun. In fact the state branch has filed a suit to oppose tenure elongation.

“If Oyegun decides to re-contest, he might fight for the slot with ex-Governor Adams Oshiomhole and ex-Governor Clement Ebri.

“I think Oshiomhole has an edge at present,” said a Northwest governor.

Meanwhile, six APC governors have been urged to support the President’s bid to reposition the party.

The Northcentral Media Support Group for Buhari made the plea in a statement by its National coordinator, Ahmad Tukur.

Tukur said the governors should support the President at the NEC meeting.

He said: “We are confident that the Northcentral will give the President every support that is why we are urging our governors to go to NEC meeting with one voice to ensure that the decision of Mr. President is supreme as the leader of the party.”

“Supporting the President from Northcentral is a support from the country because the zone constitutes a mini Nigeria.”

The group said the President was doing his best to “ensure that the right thing is done in accordance with the provision of the law to see that APC leadership is legally put in place.

“Buhari as the leader of the party deserves every commendation for his effort to place the country among the comity of nations that respects rule of law and the constitution.”

•The Nation.

GrassRoots.ng is on a critical mission; to objectively and honestly represent the voice of ‘grassrooters’ in International, Federal, State and Local Government fora; heralding the achievements of political and other leaders and investors alike, without discrimination. This daily, digital news publication platform serves as the leading source of up-to-date information on how people and events reflect on the global community. The pragmatic articles reflect on the life of the community people, covering news/current affairs, business, technology, culture and fashion, entertainment, sports, State, National and International issues that directly impact the locals.

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Minister Commends Guards Brigade for Exceptional Service in Securing the Seat of Government

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Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle,
Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle at WASA 2024

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.

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Matawalle Commends President Tinubu for Positive Economic Reforms

…Matawalle urges critics to be positive in their narratives

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matawalle and Tinubu
R-l: President Bola Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle

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.

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Matawalle: Our Success Story is Huge

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Mohammed Bello Matawalle
Dr Mohammed Bello Matawalle in a photograph with the visitors

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.

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