GRPolitics
2019: Ebonyi community angry, threaten to withdraw support for PDP
By: Ikenna Oluka
Ahead of National Assembly primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the people of Onicha Igboeze clan in Ebonyi state have threatened to support any political party other than the PDP or people that are willing to factor their interest very well ahead of 2019 election.
The clan, who spoke under the aegis of Onicha Igboeze Town Union, alleged they were aware of the plot to scheme out their son, Hon. Linus Abaa Okorie, by internal forces, bent on thwarting his return ticket despite the alleged position of the National Working Committee of the party who prescribed currently serving National Assembly members be returned to boost the party’s cohesive thrust towards clinching the presidency in 2019.
The clan, therefore, warned the ruling PDP in the state against unnecessary politics and manipulation with Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo (OHAONIVO) Federal Constituency ticket of the party.
“Ebonyi State chapter of the PDP is religiously implementing this strategic policy directive in virtually all other federal constituencies in the state except in OHAONIVO, a seat occupied by our own son, Rt. Hon. Linus Okorie Abaa, and indication are rife that certain internal forces are afoot to thwart his return ticket. Our position is why? We say that no reason is tenable whatsoever. What is sauce for the goose is certainly sauce for the gander.”
The Union made their feelings known in a Communiqué issued after its emergency meeting and signed by the President of the union, Chief James Nwankwo; Deputy President of Onicha Town Union, Mr. Akuma Nwani Okorie; Chairman Onicha Development Union, Elder Sunday Anoke; Chairman Igboeze Development Union Chief Okikie Onu; Prime Minister Igboeze Autonomous community, Chief Ogbonnaya Nwankwo and Chief Felix Akpa Ogo who is all a Prime Minister of Igboeze autonomous community.
According to them, Onicha has taken the least slots of both the Senate and the House of Representatives shared by the three local government areas that make up the constituency, yet, some forces are bent on denying their son, Hon. Linus Okorie a return ticket.
They noted with dismay that whenever it comes to a dispensation of democracy dividends, Onicha local government was always shortchanged by the PDP despite their unparalleled loyalty and support to the party since 1999.
They further added that Onicha people have been grossly shortchanged in a plethora of ways as even promises made to them by Governor Umahi, including street lights and cultural centre were yet to be fulfilled. They equally mentioned that the Governor had on January endorsed Hon. Okorie when they organised civic reception for him.
“Now, not only have we no street light whose deadline for installation the governor put at June 2018; we are not a little alarmed that there are ongoing intrigues to scuttle the just mandate of Rt. Hon. Linus Okorie Abaa, a mandate which may only equal the ante in the distribution of offices in the constituency.”
“Let no one mistake our body language. We shall give to only who is willing to give us. We are unequivocally ready to work with those who do not take our collective sense of solidarity for granted; for everyone knows that robbing Peter to pay Paul is asinine politics.
“A denigrating action targeted at a sincere and loyal bloc MUST, not out of will, BUT out of self-defence be rebuffed. Let no one make any mistake about this: Onicha-Igboeze, grandchildren of Ezza Ezekunna with the spirit of resoluteness and uncanny resistance to operation latent and effusive, even though quite often, we, like the wheel of God grind slowly, but certainly we do grind,” they concluded.
They urged Governor David Umahi, in the very least to play neutral as a father in OHAONIVO federal constituency primary election of the party as anything short of it would not be acceptable for them as a people.
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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