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2023 And The Usual Delusion of Incumbency

Article by By Hashim Suleiman

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2023 And The Usual Delusion of Incumbency

It is said that those who forget history are bound to repeat same mistakes and when you look around you’ll see these tendencies around some players of the 2023 elections especially those of the ruling APC party and such goes to tell you a lot about why our nation has found it difficult to make a headway regarding imbibing major attitudinal changes that can guarantee meaningful development.

It is said that those who forget history are bound to repeat same mistakes and when you look around you’ll see these tendencies around some players of the 2023 elections especially those of the ruling APC party and such goes to tell you a lot about why our nation has found it difficult to make a headway regarding imbibing major attitudinal changes that can guarantee meaningful development.

I had always spoken about my experiences in 2014 when I and my colleague who formed a non partisan advocacy group which was attempting to run a campaign for 30% affirmation for youth from all strata of government including political parties and private sector because we felt the youth had immense skills that could be tapped for excellence.

The most interesting of the meetings was the one we held with a high ranking member of the then ruling party, the PDP penultimate 2015 elections and to our dismay, after all our well laid out presentations and how such could help their strategy, the man blatantly told us they were the incumbent and would win the elections even if all Nigerians were not going to vote for them, we wondered what that meant especially that we had done our maths and knew they had issues, he shared phantom analysis and said they were relying on some big name politicians from the northern Nigeria whom we knew had little or no political goodwill to bring to the table, the rest about their fate in that election is now history, they failed woefully.

Fast forward to the 2019 elections when same character was employed by the ruling APC and it was a morning of the scheduled presidential elections that they recognized the incumbency thought was an illusion and they suddenly had to postpone the elections by a week and leveraged on Buhari’s sentimental popularity as well as struggled to patch some little areas to struggle to pull out an arguable victory by over 2 million votes. That again passed and everything returned to normal.

We are now approaching the 2023 elections and again all I can see from the APC folks is same approach of sharing ‘beer parlor’ analysis anchored on incumbency to assume that victory is already theirs while I see a totally different scenario realistically.

For example, the APC guys, majority of which are totally new entrants into the political game owing to Buhari’s magnanimity in rewarding friends, families and their allies believe that Buhari’s entire vote Bank which they also will not be able to see has been depleted belongs to Tinubu, how? Is it not same people we speak with on a daily?

The fact is majority of the voters of the country have chosen to conceal their intents owing to the governments high handedness on those who choose to express opinions other than those favorable to them in their tenure.

Such makes it difficult for anyone to truly understand where the people will swing to but a little reminder about their situation in 2014 and now will easily sway them into not voting for APC but you’ll wonder why the APC members will not see this and will refuse any explanations about it.

They will always also tell you about what has now become more of a cliché that Peter Obi would deplete Atiku’s votes and here again I see a people far detached from reality and politics.

I was in lagos earlier last month and to my amazement, my Yoruba friend had told me that there were more Obidients in lagos than any other city of Nigeria and they cut across all the ethnicities, I tried to explain this to some of my APC friends but they’ll debunk it and it always reminds me of my 2014 experience with the PDP as highlighted in paragraph 2 above.

I would also take my time to explain to them how so many of the critical stakeholders of the South East like Jim Nwobodo, Emeka Ihedioha, Osita Chidoka, Adolphos Wabara etc are Atiku supporters and whatever Peter Obi does he cannot deny PDP at least 40% of the south East votes which are sufficient for them while South South will come in the bag for PDP because in history, they had never aligned with the South East, whether it was for Biafra or the 1979 elections when they voted for Shagari ahead of Nnamdi Azikiwe or Awolowo, but again the APC folks will not agree to these and it will become worrisome how a serious people who crave victory detest conversations around history and data.

The APC and her supporters are clearly on a false footing regarding their permutations and high confidence which are anchored on big name politicians especially from the north most of which have lost touch with their people, majority of their conversations and expectations are what we term in local parlance ‘garage talk’ and it’s all orchestrated by their thought that incumbency and not critical strategy is enough but we should remind them that Nigeria’s democracy has long evolved and the earlier they recognize and align the better for them, otherwise, a shocker awaits them as will always with people who refuse to learn, unlearn and relearn like they are up to at the moment.

May the best man win for the benefit of country.

Nigeria and 2023 elections
Hashim Suleiman

Hashim Suleiman writes from Abuja. He can be reached via email: [email protected]

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PDP Crisis: Saraki, Dickson, Dankwambo Storm Enugu, Meet with Gov Mbah

… South East is important to PDP, says Saraki – REPORTER: SANDRA ANI

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Saraki, Dickson, Dankwambo Storm Enugu, Meet with Gov Mbah
L-r: former governor of Gombe State, Dr. Ibrahim Dankwambo; former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki; Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and former governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Seriake Dickson

In a clear bid to stem the tide of crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the PDP Special Reconciliation Committee chaired by former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, Friday, met with the governor of Enugu State and leader of the party in the South East region, Dr. Peter Mbah.

Other members of the Committee present at the meeting, which held behind closed doors at the Government House, Enugu, were former governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Seriake Dickson, and former governor of Gombe State, Dr. Ibrahim Dankwambo.

It is recalled that the leaders of PDP in the zone had in a communique issued after the South East PDP Zonal Executive Council, ZEC, meeting a fortnight ago announced the re-nomination of former PDP National Youth Leader, Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye, to serve out the remaining tenure of the National Secretary, threatening possible exodus should their decision not be respected.

“In the event that our position is not promptly implemented by the Party, the South East PDP, as a family, will be compelled to reconsider our relationship with the PDP going forward,” the communique stated.

But addressing newsmen after the closed-door meeting with Mbah, Saraki said, “We are members of the PDP Reconciliation and Strategy Committee that was set up recently by the PDP Governors’ Forum to work towards ensuring that our upcoming National Executive Council meeting and also likely convention is rancor-free and and works smoothly.

“In line with that, we are here in Enugu State to consult with one of our leaders, Governor Peter Mbah, who is the leader of South East PDP.

“This is the first state we are coming to because we appreciate the importance of the South East in our PDP family. As you all know, the South East has played a key role as the bedrock of the popularity and the strength of our party.

“In recognition of that, we are here to consult with him and first to commend him on the leadership role he has been playing in the party. More importantly also, to commend what he is doing in Enugu State, which is a reflection for Nigerians to see what happens when you have a PDP government.

“In doing that, we discussed how we will ensure that we carry out the assignment given to us and go ahead to have our NEC and our convention. We will have one that is rancor-free and smooth, peaceful and lays the foundation for the PDP that we all are wishing for.

“We have had a very good discussion. Frankly, we have had a very, very useful discussion. We are going away with some of the suggestions that we have here and hopefully work on that.

“With this, we can say here in Enugu we laid the foundation for a greater new PDP that is coming.

“What we have also seen today is that there is nothing insurmountable in the challenge ahead and the spirit, the commitment of all of us, especially our leaders, is very very inspiring,” he stated.

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Urgent Call for Fairness and Justice in Handling Allegations

By: Ojo Emmanuel Ademola

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Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Godswill Akpabio
L-r: Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Godswill Akpabio

In addressing claims of wrongdoing, a balanced and fair approach is crucial. Respect all perspectives, follow due process, and ensure transparency for truth and accountability. Stand with silenced women and demand equality in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Reject shielding the powerful and opt for justice, equality, and democracy. Support brave women like Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who challenge abuse and fight for political transparency. Demand accountability and an inclusive democracy that values women’s voices.

Despite facing opposition, Natasha bravely shared her allegations, urging action. The Senate’s dismissive response raises doubts about their integrity.

It’s a widespread issue in African politics, with women facing exploitation and violence. Nigeria must address these deep-rooted problems.

Advocate for a systemic change, not just Akpabio’s resignation. Ensure women’s full participation in governance and dismantle structures enabling harassment. Nigeria must promote transparency and accountability, supporting women in politics.

Independent investigation into Natasha’s claims is crucial for transparency and accountability. Nigeria must improve its response to sexual harassment in public office, protecting women and promoting democracy. This fight for justice transcends individual interests, uniting civil society for equality and justice. How can we address the myriad of issues, thought processes, and solutions that impact our nation in Nigeria, with the aim of bolstering our democracy and ensuring that women have the rights and opportunities to be active participants in the democratic process?

To strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and empower women as active participants, it is imperative to focus on implementing robust gender equality legislation, promoting education and awareness on the importance of women’s participation, creating women empowerment programs, encouraging more women to run for political office, combatting gender-based violence, providing supportive infrastructure, and promoting positive media representation.

By addressing these key areas, Nigeria can make substantial progress towards enhancing its democracy and ensuring women have the opportunities to participate meaningfully in governance.

Through a concerted effort to address these issues and implement effective solutions, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive and representative democratic landscape that empowers all citizens, regardless of gender.

Should there be a public inquiry into this matter to fully leverage the benefits of the digital age?

Let’s explore the high possibility of a public inquiry with unwavering assertiveness and investigate how embracing digital advancements can bring positive change. 

Indeed, a public inquiry into this matter is necessary and essential to leverage the advantages of the digital age. It is imperative that the truth is uncovered and justice is served. The transparency and accountability provided by a public inquiry are crucial in addressing the issues at hand and ensuring that those responsible are held to account.

In this digital era, where information is readily accessible, and communication is instantaneous, a public inquiry can harness the power of technology to reach a wider audience, gather evidence efficiently, and facilitate public engagement.

It is time to embrace the digital age as a tool for positive change, and public inquiry is a vital step in leveraging technology to improve society.

Prominent in Nigeria’s political sphere, Godswill Akpabio wields power through alliances and controversial actions. Despite insensitive remarks and allegations of complicity in cover-ups, the Senate protects him.

This sends a dangerous message that women’s rights are disposable, perpetuating a culture where speaking out leads to isolation.

Sextortion, highlighted by Transparency International, hinders progress and demands a radical governance shift.

An impartial investigation into Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations is vital, excluding Senate influence. Nigeria must revamp its response to sexual harassment in public office, safeguarding women in governance. Civil society, advocates, and media support are crucial in this battle for justice and equality. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension reveals Nigeria’s dire political reality, but amid the despair, resilient voices advocate for reform across Africa.

To enhance democracy, Akpabio should step down pending an independent investigation into the harassment allegations. This action would demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability. Acknowledging the seriousness of the accusations and cooperating fully with the investigation would further uphold democratic integrity and ethical conduct.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan can contribute to democracy by courageously speaking against harassment and demanding accountability. Engaging with the investigation, advocating for justice, and amplifying the voices of other women facing similar challenges are crucial steps. By promoting gender equality, accountability, and reforms to protect women in power, Natasha can play a key role in advancing democracy and women’s rights in Nigeria.

How can citizens and the government collaborate to bolster Nigeria’s democracy in this particular scenario? Let’s explore the roles each party can play in this critical issue.

Citizens are crucial in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy by holding government officials accountable for their actions and demanding transparency and justice. In the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citizens can support her by advocating for a thorough investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment and ensuring that she receives a fair outcome. They can also actively participate in civil society initiatives that promote gender equality and women’s rights, fostering a culture of respect and accountability within the political sphere.

On the government’s part, they must demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of gender, are treated fairly and protected from harassment and discrimination. This includes conducting thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct and implementing policies that promote gender equality and safeguard women’s rights in the workplace. By working collaboratively with citizens and civil society organisations to address systemic issues of gender-based violence and discrimination, the government can play a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Nonetheless, when considering claims or allegations made by individuals, it is crucial to approach the situation with a balanced and fair mindset. It is important to remember that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and all parties involved deserve the opportunity to present their side of the story and have their claims thoroughly investigated.

In the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims against Akpabio, it is essential to acknowledge and consider the potential motivations and biases of all individuals involved. Without concrete evidence or information, it is not fair to make definitive judgments or accusations about someone’s character or intentions.

It is important to uphold the principles of due process and transparency in addressing allegations of misconduct, harassment, or blackmail. This involves conducting a thorough, impartial investigation to gather all relevant facts and evidence before reaching any conclusions. Fairness and impartiality are essential in ensuring that justice is served and that the truth is ultimately revealed.

Maintaining a balanced and fair approach when evaluating claims and allegations is crucial in upholding the principles of justice and accountability. All parties involved should be given the opportunity to present their perspectives and have their claims thoroughly investigated before any definitive judgments or conclusions are made.

In conclusion, the principles of balance, fairness, and due process are crucial when navigating claims and allegations in any context. When evaluating allegations, it is essential to consider the motivations, biases, and perspectives of all parties involved. Upholding justice requires a thorough and impartial investigation that gathers all relevant facts and evidence before reaching conclusions. By maintaining a balanced and fair approach, we can uphold the integrity of our institutions, ensure accountability, and ultimately work towards a more just and equitable society.

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Tinubu’s Unyielding Path to 2027: El-Rufai’s Futile Opposition

By: Ojo Emmanuel Ademola

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Tinubu and El Rufai by Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
L-r: President Bola Tinubu and former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El Rufai

As we find ourselves at the pivotal juncture of President Tinubu’s first term, during the midpoint where progress and potential intersect, it is imperative that we seize this moment to propel our nation forward in economic development and sustainability.

Building upon the solid foundation laid by President Tinubu, we must harness renewed energy and direction to further enhance his successes.

By boldly embracing innovative strategies, nurturing strategic partnerships, and enacting transformative policies, we can drive sustainable growth and ensure lasting prosperity for all citizens.

We can enrich our economic landscape and pave the way for enduring progress through unwavering dedication to these principles and a resolute focus on our national objectives. United in our actions and unwavering commitment to forward-looking initiatives, we can chart a course towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for Nigeria.

El-Rufai’s feeble attempt to challenge the political powerhouse that is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not just an exercise in futility but a stark reminder of the stark contrast between self-serving interests and authentic leadership driven by a genuine commitment to national well-being.

In a political landscape where opportunistic alliances and personal vendettas reign supreme, President Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to revitalising Nigeria’s economy and promoting sustainable development stands out as a beacon of hope. His bold reforms in agriculture, infrastructure, education, and governance have transformed the lives of millions of Nigerians and laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

The establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund, initiatives like the Dry Season Farming Initiative, and massive infrastructure projects like the Port Harcourt-Aba rail line and the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway have not only enhanced connectivity and boosted economic activity but have also created countless job opportunities and improved the standard of living for citizens across the country.

President Tinubu’s visionary leadership has prioritised education by expanding access to higher education through initiatives like the Student Loans Act 2024, ensuring that Nigeria’s youth have the tools they need to thrive in a competitive global economy. His efforts to streamline tax policies and improve the business environment have catalysed economic growth, increased government revenue, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles that hinder entrepreneurship and innovation.
In stark contrast, El-Rufai’s erratic political manoeuvring and thinly veiled attempts to undermine President Tinubu’s visionary leadership only serve to highlight his lack of credibility and vision. His shifting allegiances and disregard for the national interest in favour of personal vendettas reveal a fundamental flaw in his character and leadership style.

As Sule Lamido rightly points out, authentic leadership is not about personal ambitions or settling scores but about selfless dedication to the common good. President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic development and sustainability exemplifies this principle, inspiring hope and driving progress towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.

El-Rufai’s futile attempts to challenge President Tinubu pale compared to the transformative impact of Tinubu’s visionary leadership. As Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its journey towards sustainable development and economic prosperity, it is imperative that we rally behind leaders who prioritise the national interest above personal grievances and partisan politics. President Tinubu’s bold reforms and unwavering dedication to economic development and sustainability offer a clear path to a more prosperous and equitable future for all Nigerians.

How exactly is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pushing for economic development and sustainability to benefit the citizens and fortify Nigeria’s democracy? Through what concerted efforts and strategic initiatives is his administration robustly working towards these goals? As we delve into the intricate details of his vision and actions, we not only gain insight into the potential impact on the lives of Nigerians but also unravel the threads that weave a more prosperous, inclusive, and democratic fabric for our nation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to economic development and sustainability is a promise and a bold and visionary agenda to transform Nigeria into a prosperous and sustainable nation. His strategic reforms and initiatives are designed to benefit every citizen and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by fostering inclusive growth, creating job opportunities, and improving all Nigerians’ living standards.

President Tinubu’s focus on economic development is evident in his ambitious agricultural sector reforms, such as the establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund and initiatives like the Dry Season Farming Initiative. These measures boost agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and create employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians, particularly in rural areas where poverty and unemployment are prevalent.

Furthermore, President Tinubu’s massive infrastructure projects, including the operationalization of the Port Harcourt-Aba rail line and the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway, are not just about improving transportation and connectivity but are also catalysts for economic growth and regional integration. These infrastructure projects create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, attract investments, and stimulate economic activity, ultimately benefiting the citizens and strengthening Nigeria’s economy.

President Tinubu’s initiatives in education, such as the enactment of the Student Loans Act 2024, exemplify his commitment to empowering Nigeria’s youth and equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to compete in the global economy. By expanding access to higher education and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, President Tinubu is nurturing a new generation of leaders and professionals who will drive economic growth and sustainability in the future.

Moreover, President Tinubu’s efforts to streamline tax policies, improve the business environment, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks aim to make Nigeria more business-friendly, attract investments, and boost economic competitiveness. These reforms increase government revenue and create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, create jobs, and contribute to economic development and sustainability.

President Tinubu’s vision for economic growth prioritises inclusive development, job creation, and sustainable infrastructure, paving the way for a prosperous and equitable future for all Nigerians. Strengthening democracy through strategic policies, his administration’s efforts reflect strides towards comprehensive progress. To sustain this momentum, anti-corruption measures must be intensified to uphold transparency and accountability, fostering public trust and efficient resource allocation. Building on past success, continued focus on governance and economic strategies will propel Nigeria towards a brighter future in 2027.

Additionally, the President must reduce unnecessary borrowing, thereby promoting fiscal sustainability. Moreover, boosting internal productivity, mainly through initiatives that prioritise Nigerians feeding Nigerians, will enhance food security, stimulate economic growth, and reduce dependency on external sources. These strategic actions and other reforms and initiatives will foster sustainable development and inclusive prosperity and enhance the administration’s chances of success in the forthcoming 2027 elections.

In conclusion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure has undeniably ushered in significant advancements across various sectors, setting the stage for ongoing progress and prosperity. His administration can solidify transparency, accountability, and self-sustainability by steadfastly prioritising robust anti-corruption measures, curbing unnecessary borrowing, and catalysing internal productivity. These decisive actions reinforce public confidence in the government and pave the way for a more resilient and inclusive society. As Nigeria steels itself for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2027, it is imperative that President Tinubu tenaciously pursues these vital reforms to secure a brighter and more promising future for all Nigerians.

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