GRPolitics
Ugwuanyi-Sullivan collabo that got Akpabio mad at Udom
The gully-of-disaffections between former Senate Minority Leader, Godswill Akpabio and the incumbent Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, became wider as the former could not hide his feelings on the butchered relationship between them.
Akpabio-Emmanuel, when the going was easy and rosy.
He even expressed regrets for what he called “imposing” Udom on the people of the state.
Apologising before a crowd at Ikot Ekpene Plaza, Akpabio, who returned from his mother-in-law’s burial at Enugu on Sunday evening, said Emmanuel was the greatest mistake he made in a hurry, and asked to be forgiven.
Akpabio, who represents Akwa Ibom North West in the Senate, noted that Emmanuel “is a mistake that must be corrected in 2019.”
“Udom (Emmanuel) is a mistake that must be corrected in 2019. All hands must be on deck to ensure that the mistake is corrected for a people-oriented leadership under the ruling All Progressives Congress at the centre.”
According to him, “Emmanuel’s administration has failed the people,” forcing him to take decisive actions to correct the anomaly for posterity to be fair on him.
Akpabio spoke of the prevalence of hunger and deprivation in Akwa Ibom State since the Emmanuel administration assumed power, adding that it was time for “holistic action” to liberate the state from the shackles of bad governance
But recall, Akpabio had, in the run up to the 2015 elections, declared Emmanuel, then Secretary to the State Government, next in line to succeed him, even when 26 aspirants jostled for the post.
However, GrassRoots.ng traces Akpabio’s latest outburst to a supposed ‘cordiality’ he witnessed between the incumbent and immediate-past Governors of Enugu State- Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and Barrister Sullivan Chime.
Just last weekend, Senator Akpabio expressed delight with the relationship between Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and his predecessor Sullivan Chime.
Sen. Akpabio, who spoke during the funeral ceremony of his grand mother-in-law, Madam Mercy Uduoku Neife Igwenagu in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State, which was attended by Gov. Ugwuanyi and ex-Governor Chime, among other dignitaries, told Chime that “it is not easy to see to a successor giving you this respect; keeping up with your projects; maintaining the projects; improving on them and ensuring the peace of the state”.
The Senator commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for his uncommon leadership style anchored on peace and good governance and encouraged the immediate past governor of Enugu State to “support Gov. Ugwuanyi for the good works he is doing in this state”.
Sen. Akpabio noted that he was impressed with the giant development strides of Gov. Ugwuanyi, the state’s peaceful atmosphere and the warm hospitality he observed when he visited Enugu with Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State for the burial of the late former Vice President, Chief Alex Ekwueme, stressing that all these were achieved when “there was recession”.
Ugwuanyi, Akpabio and Sullivan.
“The joy you (Ugwuanyi) also gave me was when I left Enugu Government House in the night, I saw street lights everywhere. I said, I thought in many states that they said that there is recession and I entered those states and there were no street lights again. But you have not only been able to maintain what you met on ground, you have improved on them, you are still improving on them”, Sen. Apkabio pointed out.
Speaking on Gov. Ugwunayi’s humble disposition and penchant for peace, the Senator stated that the governor’s humility is “disarming”, saying: “Because you have shown humility to God; that God will give you your heart’s desires”.
His words: “We want prosperity and peace. It is in the heart of the individual. It is the love you have in heart for your people that gives prosperity and peace. Our prayer is that God will give you (Ugwuanyi) more resources as you continue to add to the development of Enugu State. And as you continue to add to the beauty of Enugu City, may God bless you for your good works in Jesus Name.
“I am very proud you have been not just an in-law but a great son of Enugu State. Enugu remains the capital of South-South and South-East, and I am sure you know that this whole city will continue to see progress and that can only come with peace and love among all of us. You have shown love from the successor to the predecessor and then to all of us”.
Another highlight of the event was the performance of a highly cherished traditional dance in the Igbo land, Igede, by Gov. Ugwuanyi, Chime and Akpabio.
So, if you have been asking why Akpabio had to make the comment on his return to Akwa-Ibom, look no more. Now you know- it is because of the Ugwuanyi-Sullivan collaboration in Enugu State; even though they now belong to different political platforms.
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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