GRPolitics
Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Fed House of Reps ticket: Another crisis brews in APC
A House of Representatives aspirant for the Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Barr. Maximus Ugwuoke has warned the party against fielding Engr. Ikechukwu Ugwuegede as its candidate.
The APC election committee had declared Ugwuegede as the winner of the primary.
However, Ugwuoke, who emerged from a parallel primary conducted by the Deacon Okey Ogbodo led faction of the party, in a strong-worded statement made available to DAILY POST, vowed to reclaim his mandate.
He said. “I remain the validly elected candidate of APC for Nsukka Igboeze South Federal constituency who emerged from the direct primary election held by the APC on the 3rd day of October 2018 and no one can deny me that mandate.
“I have a copy of the result of that primary where I scored the highest number of votes cast and I will resist the orchestrated imposition of whomever as the candidate of the party.”
He said that “the Enugu APC under the chairmanship of Deacon Okey Ogbodo that wanted the direct primaries from the onset was well prepared and well equipped with the materials for the direct primary election and had fully complied with all the known legitimate steps for the conduct of the election as stipulated in the APC party guideline for conduct of the 2018 Direct primaries.
“They had also notified the relevant security agencies and the INEC of their readiness for the election prior to that date. And so they went ahead with the conduct of the election in the various wards in the state.
“The results were collated as stipulated in the party guideline and in my constituency I emerged winner with a very wide margin to defeat my two other opponents Mr Emma Agama who came second and Engr Ik Ugwuegede who came third.
“I later heard the rumour that Engr Ugwuegede is laying claims as the party candidate, how?
I repeat without mincing words that any attempt to impose him as the party candidate will
spell a doom for APC as far as my constituency is concerned.
“Besides the fact that he did not emerge the winner of the primary through any democratic means, he is not a qualified member of APC and as such cannot be the Party’s candidate for that election.
“I have all it takes to prove this in Court if the party goes on with this impunity. He doesn’t possess the requisite qualifications for that office, I know what I mean and will let the cat out of the bag if the party decides to forge ahead with this impunity. The court of law is there to clean up any mess that anyone may want to do to circumvent this truth.
“I wouldn’t just say I will drag all those that may be involved in this impunity to court, I would rather say I am already waiting for them in the Court because that where I already belong.
“I have confidence in our judicial system to right any wrong. As a lawyer, I am not new to controversies and good enough Ugwuegede is not new to controversy either. The difference perhaps lies on who can go the extra mile.
“I am determined to go that mile the legal way. What is morally wrong cannot be politically right. It does matter whose name is sent to INEC. I have filled and submitted my INEC Form, it doesn’t matter whose data is published by INEC, the final list of Candidates will be out by January 2019 by INEC timetable and even after then it doesn’t foreclose the avenue to remedy any injustice done in the process.
“Good enough under our law, INEC doesn’t print any candidate’s name on the ballot paper, it is the name of the political parties that are printed there. I pray and will continue to work for APC to win the general election in my constituency, then after we will know who has the valid claim to the party’s ticket in my constituency. The wind of justice grinds slowly but it will surely grind to a halt.”
GRPolitics
Breaking: ‘Welcome home,’ Gov Mbah Receives Edeoga Back to PDP
…‘You’re Enugu people’s choice,’ Edeoga tells governor
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Wednesday, welcomed the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 governorship election, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, back into the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, fold, commending the ex-opposition flagbearer for demonstrating that politics is not a do-or-die affair.
Mbah said that Edeoga’s return to the PDP was in line with the party’s principle of reconciliation and making the people, not personal ambition, the focus of governance, urging him and his supporters to feel very much at home.
This was even as the former gubernatorial candidate endorsed Mbah as the popular choice of the people of Enugu State, stressing that he had fully aligned with that choice.
Receiving Edoega in his office, in the company of party leaders led by the state party chairman, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike, Mbah said, “Welcome back home. The symbolism of your action is a mark of the enduring bond that runs in our party. I am indeed very delighted to have you back to rejoin your family.
“What we are witnessing today is a result of fence-mending consistent with the philosophy of our party – the imperatives of reconciliation.
“It is also a demonstration on your part that politics is not a do-or-die affair; that what we are currently doing in Enugu State appeals to you and you believe that it is working for the interest of the people and you have taken that decision to say, ‘Look, let us join hands together and serve our people.’
“I commend you greatly for making such a courageous bold step. The lesson for us is quite profound, as it shows that the common denominator even when we express our aspirations on different political platforms, is all about the people and making them the centerpiece of our ambitions.
“So, we will embrace you with our arms wide open. You are going to be treated as a member of PDP, which we know you are indeed. We look forward to working with you in the service of our people.”
Edeoga, on his part, commended Governor Mbah for making his return possible, describing it as a paradigm shift from politics of animosity and winner takes all to politics of empathy and people-centred development.
“I thank Your Excellency for overseeing the process that has culminated in my return to the PDP and my visit to your office. It is easy to downplay what has happened. But something like this has not happened in the annals of politics in Enugu State. I commend your wisdom, I commend your empathy, I commend your mental sagacity.
“What has happened here today will effect a paradigm shift in the way politics is played in Enugu State. It will no longer be winner takes all or politics being seen as a hostile or brutal activity. It has restored politics as just a contest of ideas and visions. These contesting visions were thrown open to the public and the people of Enugu State have made their choice, which I completely align myself with.
“Politics should be played without bitterness; it should be played without animosity and as much humanely as possible. Once the victor has emerged, the next thing is governance. The governance is ongoing and it is going very well. When it is time for politics, people are free to pursue their dreams. For now, it is time for governance.
“Anyone, who feels annoyed or deeply angered that Edeoga has taken this step of faith, I believe with time, they will align with the superior wisdom of those who are their leaders. Leadership comes with responsibilities and one of these responsibilities is to take a step of faith.
“Again, thank you for making my return to the PDP possible. I recommit myself to the ideals of PDP. As much as possible, I will work to ensure that PDP becomes victorious going forward,” he said.
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.
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