GRPolitics
Ekiti Guber Pre-Election Poll: Eleka in early lead over Fayemi
Ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti State Gubernatorial elections slated for July 14th 2018, a new public opinion poll conducted by NOIPolls has pitched Professor Kolapo Olusola, candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in an early 8-point lead over Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The poll was conducted between 18th and 23rd June 2018 and it sought to assess the preparedness of voters towards the forthcoming Governorship election in Ekiti state.
From the results of 1,000 randomly selected respondents, all resident in Ekiti state, and interviewed via telephone: Professor Olusola, fondly known as Eleka polled 34 percent; Dr. Fayemi (JKF) polled 26 percent; Otunba Segun Adewale of ADP, fondly called Oshaprapra (7 percent); and Reverend Tunde Afe of ANRP (6 percent)
In addition, there were some candidates who altogether polled 4 percent, such as: Akinloye Ayegbusi (SDP), David Ayodele Adesua (ADC), Ebenezer Femi Ogunsakin (PPN), Dr. Sikiru Lawal (LP), Sunday Balogun (MPN), Mrs, Ilesanmi Anike Margaret (AP), Temitope Amuda (KP), Tosin Ajibade (ID) and Agboola Olaniyi (AD) amongst others.
Interestingly, the poll also revealed that while 93 percent of respondents claimed to have obtained their Permanent Voters Card (PVC), 83 percent were absolutely certain they would come out and vote for the gubernatorial candidate of their choice on 14th July 2018. However, in spite of this level of optimism and preparedness, 23 percent of respondents remain either undecided or simply refused to divulge their choice of candidate.
The poll further indicated that while Professor Olusola appeared to enjoy significant support across the three senatorial districts of the state, Ekiti Central (39 percent), Ekiti South (36 percent) and Ekiti North (30 percent); Dr. Fayemi’s support base was observed mainly in Ekiti South (28 percent) and Ekiti North (27 percent) senatorial districts.
Similarly, the poll highlighted Eleka’s support amongst youths aged between 18 and 35 years (39 percent) and the working-class of ages 36 to 60 years (34 percent); compared to JKF’s whose support averaged 26 percent across all age categories. Interestingly, the poll also revealed a strong female support for Eleka (37 percent), compared to JKF with significant support from male respondents (28 percent).
In conclusion, although Eleka currently leads the race with a significant 8-point margin, we opine that the election remains a keenly contested race between the two leading candidates (Prof. Olusola and Dr. Fayemi) for two main reasons: 1.) There remains a very significant proportion of voters (23 percent) who remain either undecided or seek confidentiality as to their choice of candidate; and 2.) For political watchers, the election of 14th July 2018 appears to be more of a contest between the incumbent Governor, Dr. Ayodele Fayose and the former Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and not necessarily between Eleka and JKF.
The poll, according to the result signed by Dr. Bell Ihua, the CEO NOIPolls, was conducted between June 18th and 23rd 2018. It involved telephone interviews of a random state-wide sample in Ekiti State. 1,000 randomly selected phone-owning residents of the state aged 18 years and above, representing the three senatorial districts of the state, were interviewed.
With a sample of this size, we can say with 95% confidence that the results obtained are statistically precise – within a range of plus or minus 3%. Of the 1,000 completed interviews, 52 percent were male and 48 percent female respondents.
Samples for the poll were selected randomly for the senatorial districts in representation of the state’s population – Ekiti Central (39 percent), Ekiti South (34 percent), and Ekiti North (27 percent). Also, 35 percent of respondents were aged between 18 and 35 years; 57 percent between 36 and 60 years; and 8 percent above 61 years. In terms of employment status of respondents, top 5 respondents are: Self-employed traders (32 percent), Civil servants (21 percent), Artisans (10 percent), Unemployed young people (7 percent), and Students (7 percent).
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.
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