GRPolitics
Imah, Orika, Others Enjoin Mbala People To Participate Actively In Abia Politics
A community leader, Engr. Edozie Richard Imah has called on the people of Mbala Isuochi in the UmunneochiLocal Government Area of Abia State to wake up from their slumber and participate actively in the build-up to the 2023 general elections in Nigeria.
Engr. Imah spoke at the first Mbala political summit which held recently at his palatial home at Umuobasi MbalaIsuochi, in the Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State.
He said it is regrettable that Mbala people have been crying of marginalization by both political representatives and successive governments in Abia State and yet, the people and indeed those who matter in the community hardly show little or no interest in political activities in the state.
Imah, who is the founder of “Support Our Own Initiative”recalled that it was in line with the spirit of supporting Umunneochi people in their political exploits that the Support Our Own Initiative platform was formed to promote the political aspiration of Hon. NkeirukaOnyejeocha of the Federal House of Representatives during the 2019 general elections.
“Every day we lament that we are marginalized, that we do not see any government presence in our area. Yet, when it’s time for politics, you don’t see our people. And the small number that comes out, is often maligned, castigated and run down,” he said.
Imah, who is also a renowned politician and mobiliser in Umunneochi LGA recalled that in the past, Mbala used to be Isuochi political pacesetter, dictating the political direction of the town as well as laying claim to producing some of the finest politicians in the area.
“In the past, Mbala set the pace in politicking in Umunneochi. It was the time we had a generation of politically active people who saw political power as the fastest enhancer of community development and economic empowerment.
“Today, we have regrettably abandoned that path. And that is why I convened this political summit so that we can honestly tell ourselves the truth, look at where the rain started beating us; and then chart a new political course.
“The political summit is the first in the series lined up this year. My aim is to galvanise as well as mobilise our people to take active part in all political activities taking place in Isuochi, Umunneochi and Abia State as we get ready for 2023. We have both the intellectual and financial wherewithal to make this happen; and that journey must start now,” Imah charged.
In a keynote address at the occasion, former governorship aspirant in Abia State, Surv. Ike Orika recalled that it was the ‘I can do it’ spirit in Mbala people that drove him into coming out to aspire to become the governor of Abia State at the return of democratic rule in Nigeria.
Surv. Orika noted that the greatest challenge faced by Mbala people in the politics of Umunneochi and indeed, Abia State is the people’s apathy towards politics and insisted that as long as this attitude is sustained, Mbalawill continue to lag behind in Umunneochi nay Abiapolitics.
“Mbala is blessed with both the human and financial resources needed to become a political power house in this part of the country. What we need is for our people to always show interest in politics, participate in political activities and support our sons and daughters who emerge for elective positions,” he said.
Citing his experience as a case study, Orika enjoined Mbala people to eschew politics of bitterness, and the pull him down syndrome synonymous with politicians and their followers in Mbala and admitted that a politically united Mbala would once become a political force in Umunneochi.
“My experience while aspiring to become the governor of the State was quite sore. I suffered character attacks from our own people. Some people went out to collect money from our opponents to fight their own brother and sabotage our efforts.
“We told other parts of Isuochi and Umunneochi that an Umunneochi person can aspire to the highest office in the State. We were focused at achieving our goal then in spite of the opposition coming from our own people then, he said.
Surv. Orika, therefore, called on Mbala people to close ranks irrespective of political affiliation and sponsor and support candidates of Mbala extraction in the leading political parties in the next general elections billed for 2023.
Others who spoke at the summit include the traditional ruler of Umucha Autonomous Community, Eze Obi Egbo, Chief Richard Ikpe, Chief Mbaraonye Obialor, Hon Mike Ezeh, Sir Richard Imah, Major Sam Ejim (rtd), Comrade Ibe Obialor, Hon Chimaoge Ibeh among others.
The summit was chaired by His Royal Highness, Eze Obi Egbo, Chatu 1 of Umucha Autonomous Community and was witnessed by other dignitaries including Chief Kingsley Madu (Ohamadike) and politicians from across the different political parties in the State.
GRPolitics
With Commitment, Resilience We’ll Defeat Banditry and Terrorism – Badaru
…it is time to end it…Reports SANDRA ANI
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has called on the Nigerian Airforce to intensify the use of their various platforms to bring an end to banditry and terrorism.
According to the Minister, you are key to this this fight and we must put our acts together on your active component to end this war.
In a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, director information and Public Relations, Badaru said this during his operational visit to the Air Component Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at Katsina state on Monday 18th November 2024.
The Honourable Minister appreciated the heroic Air warriors who has continued to shine as beacons of hope, courage and resilience which is an inspiration to Nigerian people.
Furthermore, “the Minister opined that their efforts are yielding positive results as farmers are gradually returning to their farms, schools are reopening, businesses are picking up and Nigerians can now sleep peacefully.”
According to the Minister, the President and commander in chief of the Armed forces Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has expressed confidence on their unwavering loyalty, perseverance and professionalism. He recognizes the personal sacrifices you make every day to keep our country together.
It is pertinent to know that the President has provided the Nigerian Airforce with state of the art Aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles to enhance their attack capabilities. With the induction of these new platforms including the T129 Attack Helicopter, ” I am confident we will make Mr President and Nigerians proud.”
Consequent to this, ‘it is no coincidence that I am here today to flag off this critical phase of the Operations’. “I therefore urge you to synergize with the ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum effect from these combat enablers” Badaru said.
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni continued his operational visit by also going to sokoto to inspect the combat readiness of the platforms and also toured the new site where the permanent base of the newly established Airforce component of military operations against banditry and terrorism and facilities will be built at Sokoto Airport.
In his remarks, the chief of the Air staff , Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, appreciated the Minister’s servant leadership style which is an inspiration to all. For him , the T129 Attack Helicopters will transform our operational capabilities to those who think they can destabilize our nation.
GRPolitics
Jigawa Youth Agenda Refutes Allegations Against Badaru
By, Al-Amin Aliu, a Public Analyst
The Jigawa Youth Agenda has vehemently denied the unfounded allegations made by a mysterious group claiming to represent APC youth in Jigawa State against Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.
After thorough investigations, it was revealed that this group is not officially registered with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa and seems to have been hastily formed to spread misinformation and disrupt party unity.
The Youth Agenda are in solidarity with Minister Badaru Abubakar as they reaffirmed its unwavering support for Minister Badaru Abubakar, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to the APC and Nigeria. His leadership and commitment are indisputable, from his transformative tenure as Governor of Jigawa State to his current role as Minister of Defence.
The them, Minister Badaru has done excellently well and the highlighted his key schievements to include but not limited to the following:
– Strengthening National Security: Minister Badaru Abubakar has enhanced Nigeria’s military capabilities, ensuring protection of lives and property.
– Forging Strategic Partnerships: He has fostered vital alliances with global defence organizations to bolster Nigeria’s security and modernize defence infrastructure.
– Promoting Youth Empowerment: The Minister has launched initiatives focused on education, employment, and entrepreneurship in Jigawa State.
– Advancing APC Unity: Minister Badaru Abubakar promotes unity within the party, fostering collaboration across Jigawa and nationally.
The so-called APC Youth Group’s allegations are an attempt to create division within the united APC family. The Jigawa Youth Agenda urges APC members and the public to disregard these unfounded claims and focus on strengthening party unity and ideals.
Minister Badaru Abubakar’s legacy remains a source of pride for Jigawa State and Nigeria. His dedication to national development, APC principles, and the Tinubu administration demonstrates his integrity and effectiveness. The Jigawa Youth Agenda urges Nigerians to recognize his achievements and support his efforts to build a stronger, more secure nation.
The Jigawa Youth Agenda reaffirms its full confidence in Minister Badaru Abubakar’s ability to lead and contribute positively to Nigeria’s development. Together, let us reject misinformation and uphold APC unity and progress at state and national levels.
GRPolitics
Unmasking the Campaign of Calumny against Dr Bello Matawalle
Writer: Habib Usman, writes from Abuja
Recent protests and allegations against the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, have stirred controversy.
Organized demonstrations outside the Department of State Security (DSS) headquarters in Abuja, filled with hired crowds by APC AKIDA sponsored by Tijjani Ramallan and the Zamfara state government with unsubstantiated accusations, reveal a calculated attempt by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to discredit Dr. Matawalle.
This orchestrated campaign, fueled by political motives and a desire to undermine Matawalle’s position, demands closer scrutiny.
Reports indicate that these so-called protests are not spontaneous outcries from Zamfara’s citizens but rather an agenda-driven spectacle designed to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation.
According to sources, the protestors arrived in approximately 12 long buses, clearly organized and funded to create an image of discontent aimed at the minister.
The protestors, reportedly waving placards accusing Matawalle of colluding with criminals, are part of a broader strategy to mislead the public and manipulate the narrative around Zamfara’s complex security situation.
This orchestrated misinformation aligns with the ongoing media offensive spearheaded by Governor Lawal who has now recruited Tijjani Ramallan and his cohorts. Despite lacking concrete evidence, the governor has been on a persistent media campaign, linking Matawalle with criminal elements and falsely alleging his complicity in the state’s banditry crisis.
However, these accusations have repeatedly failed to withstand scrutiny, as underscored by a recent ruling from the Kano High Court.
The court issued an interim injunction barring Governor Lawal and his associates from continuing their smear campaign against Matawalle, stating that any further defamatory actions would be illegal until a substantive hearing on the matter.
The court order highlights the groundlessness of the governor’s claims and serves as a reminder that accusations against public officials must be substantiated by evidence, not driven by political vendettas.
By pursuing a smear campaign against a fellow public servant, Governor Lawal risks destabilizing not only his state but also the critical national security efforts in which Matawalle is involved.
Such actions could divert attention and resources from urgent security issues, ultimately harming the very citizens the governor purports to defend.
The governor’s tactic of repeatedly visiting media houses to disseminate misleading information about Dr. Matawalle has sparked concern among political observers and security experts alike.
His attempts to block Matawalle’s reappointment appear to be rooted more in political rivalry than in any genuine concerns about Zamfara’s security. It’s no coincidence that this intensified campaign began just as discussions about a potential cabinet reshuffle surfaced.
Dr. Matawalle’s growing influence, coupled with his steadfast loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has evidently made him a target for those who feel threatened by his rise.
For Nigerians, it is crucial to separate truth from politically motivated propaganda. The allegations against Dr. Matawalle are part of a coordinated campaign to undermine a dedicated public servant who has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s defence apparatus.
As the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle plays an essential role in shaping security policy, a responsibility he takes seriously and executes with distinction.
The public is advised to view the recent protests and media blitz with caution. It is imperative to consider the context: Governor Lawal’s relentless pursuit to discredit Matawalle, despite the court’s injunction against these defamatory efforts. Rather than yield to such divisive tactics, Nigerians should remain vigilant, prioritizing the integrity of national discourse over political maneuvering.
In conclusion, let us reject efforts to smear individuals serving in crucial roles, particularly when these efforts lack factual foundation and threaten to undermine national security. The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, deserves due process and an unbiased evaluation, free from political interference.nmasking the Campaign of Calumny Against Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle
Recent protests and allegations against the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, have stirred controversy. Organized demonstrations outside the Department of State Security (DSS) headquarters in Abuja, filled with hired crowds and unsubstantiated accusations, reveal a calculated attempt by Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal to discredit Dr. Matawalle. This orchestrated campaign, fueled by political motives and a desire to undermine Matawalle’s position, demands closer scrutiny.
Reports indicate that these so-called protests are not spontaneous outcries from Zamfara’s citizens but rather an agenda-driven spectacle designed to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation. According to sources, the protestors arrived in approximately 12 long buses, clearly organized and funded to create an image of discontent aimed at the minister. The protestors, reportedly waving placards accusing Matawalle of colluding with criminals, are part of a broader strategy to mislead the public and manipulate the narrative around Zamfara’s complex security situation.
This orchestrated misinformation aligns with the ongoing media offensive spearheaded by Governor Lawal.
Despite lacking concrete evidence, the governor has been on a persistent media campaign, linking Matawalle with criminal elements and falsely alleging his complicity in the state’s banditry crisis.
However, these accusations have repeatedly failed to withstand scrutiny, as underscored by a recent ruling from the Kano High Court.
The court issued an interim injunction barring Governor Lawal and his associates from continuing their smear campaign against Matawalle, stating that any further defamatory actions would be illegal until a substantive hearing on the matter.
The court order highlights the groundlessness of the governor’s claims and serves as a reminder that accusations against public officials must be substantiated by evidence, not driven by political vendettas.
By pursuing a smear campaign against a fellow public servant, Governor Lawal risks destabilizing not only his state but also the critical national security efforts in which Matawalle is involved.
Such actions could divert attention and resources from urgent security issues, ultimately harming the very citizens the governor purports to defend.
The governor’s tactic of repeatedly visiting media houses to disseminate misleading information about Dr. Matawalle has sparked concern among political observers and security experts alike.
His attempts to block Matawalle’s reappointment appear to be rooted more in political rivalry than in any genuine concerns about Zamfara’s security. It’s no coincidence that this intensified campaign began just as discussions about a potential cabinet reshuffle surfaced.
Dr. Matawalle’s growing influence, coupled with his steadfast loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has evidently made him a target for those who feel threatened by his rise.
For Nigerians, it is crucial to separate truth from politically motivated propaganda. The allegations against Dr. Matawalle are part of a coordinated campaign to undermine a dedicated public servant who has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s defence apparatus.
As the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle plays an essential role in shaping security policy, a responsibility he takes seriously and executes with distinction.
The public is advised to view the recent protests and media blitz with caution. It is imperative to consider the context: Governor Lawal’s relentless pursuit to discredit Matawalle, despite the court’s injunction against these defamatory efforts. Rather than yield to such divisive tactics, Nigerians should remain vigilant, prioritizing the integrity of national discourse over political maneuvering.
In conclusion, let us reject efforts to smear individuals serving in crucial roles, particularly when these efforts lack factual foundation and threaten to undermine national security. The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, deserves due process and an unbiased evaluation, free from political interference.
-
Spotlight4 days ago
Concerned citizens appeal to Gov Sanwo-Olu, Dangote Foundation, Banks, MTN Foundation, NNPC, others to assist journalist for brain surgery
-
Politics4 days ago
President Tinubu Restructures Media and Communications Team
-
Travel3 days ago
Defence Minister in S’Arabia to Discuss Counter-Terrorism
-
GRPolitics4 days ago
With Commitment, Resilience We’ll Defeat Banditry and Terrorism – Badaru
-
News2 days ago
Badaru on Operational Tour of 82 Division, other Military Installations in Enugu and Imo States
-
Energy2 days ago
Boost for Nigeria’s Oil Production, As NNPC’s Utapate Crude Grade Hits Global Oil Market
-
Events23 hours ago
Speakers to Discuss How to Restore Nigerians’ Confidence in the Judiciary