GRPolitics
Abia SDP expels ex-party chair over romance with Atiku
The Abia State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has dissociated itself from an online portal, suggesting that the chapter has been absorbed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in order to support its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.
Consequently, the state chhapter of SDP has expelled one Daniel Okoroafor, who is a former chairman of the party in Umunneochi local government area of Abia state, for being behind the purported PDP-SDP deal and for other anti-party activities.
The SDP State Working Committee (SWC) noted that the claims by Okoroafor and his sponsors were attempts to misled the good people of Abia state, who have decided to embrace the SDP as an ideologically-driven party that will usher in a new lease of political life for the people of the state.
In a statement made available to journalists by the Public Relations Officer of the party, Ikechukwu Osondu and obtained by LEADERSHIP yesterday in Abuja, said “Mr. Daniel Okoroafor, former chairman of Umunneochi local government was expelled by the SWC on the allegations of anti-party activities, mistrust and actions capable of destabilizing the party in the local government.”
“Our attention has been drawn to an unclassified online story published by dailyadvent.com titled: “Atiku receive Bigget Boost Ahead of 2019 As Entire SDP Party Joins PDP”, sponsored by Mr. Daniel Okoraforo, the former SDP chairman in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
“Okoraforo’s anti-party activities, which has been the reason while very notable and credible politicians in the local government have refused joined the party was reviewed and studied by the disciplinary committee set up by the SWC to ensure that justice is done. The report of the disciplinary committee submitted to the SWC and also forwarded to the party’s headquarters in Abuja shows that Okoraforo has been a stumbling block in the progress of the party in Abia State.
“As a matter of fact, Okoroafor has turned himself to a monster since his return from the party’s National Convention in Abuja in October. His ambition to make millions of naira from the just concluded convention, which was frustrated by the SWC was the last stroke that broke the camel’s back.
“Okoraforo’s latest claim that he has joined the PDP with over 500 members of the party is a lie from the pit of hell and an attempt to dupe unsuspecting members of the public who he may want to believe that he is a popular politician. He has no value, no pedigree and he is a cog in the wheel of party progress.
The general public is herby advised to disregard the lies by Okoroafor that the entire local government executives of the party have defected to the PDP with him. The statement said.
“How can the SDP that is waxing stronger across Nigeria, a party that has been adjudged by both local and international observers to have conducted the best convention in recent Nigerian political history be the one whose members will defect to the PDP, which suffered a serious defeat in 2015 or other political parties that are laced with all kind of crises? The story doesn’t just add-up.
The party therefore advised all its members in Umunneochi local government area of Abia state and beyond to disregard any other stories by people it called unscrupulous and disgruntled politicians, who are nothing but mischief makers.
“We would like to advise our members to be focused especially at this period when political jobbers like Okorafoor are out to make quick money because of their belief in money politics.
“The SDP is a discipline and focussed political part with decent, loyal and dedicated Nigerians who are poised to rebuild a strong viral and prosperous society where equity, fairness and prosperity shall reign,” the statement added.
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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