Author: Oloniruha Emmanuel

PDP felicitates Gov. Oborevwori on birthday

Birthday

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has congratulated  Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta  on his birth anniversary.

This is contained in  a statement issued by   its National Publicity Secretary , Mr Debo Ologunagba, in Abuja on Wednesday.

The party described Oborevwori as a  focused ,humble and visionary leader.

The main opposition party also said Oborevwori was as a man of integrity and  a seasoned administrator.

According to PDP, the Delta governor has  continued to demonstrate an incomparable commitment in ensuring the progress, well-being and development of Delta, the party and the nation.

The party added that  when he was  Speaker of the Delta House of Assembly and now democratically elected governor, Oborevwori was  unwavering in his abiding love and selfless service to the people.

“This is evident in Oborevwori’s life-enhancing legislation and governance policies in Delta”,the party said.

The PDP said it was  proud of Oborevwori’s  agenda of meaningful development, opportunity for all, realistic reforms and enhanced peace and security.

It said with the agenda ,Oborevwori was delivering impactful citizens empowerments , infrastructural development projects in all sectors ,in line with the manifesto and policy thrust of PDP.

The party congratulated Oborevwori and prayed  God to grant him many more years of sound health and vigour in the service of Delta, the nation and humanity.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Congresses: PDP extends deadline for sale of forms

Congresses

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN)The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has extended the deadline for the sale of forms for its 2024 congresses from  June 17 to  June 28.

National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr  Debo Ologunagba,disclosed this in a statement issued  in Abuja on Tuesday.

Ologunagba said that the extension was approved by the party’s  National Working Committee (NWC) pursuant to its power under the party’s constitution.

Ologunagba added that the deadline for  the submission of completed states’ executives forms had also been extended from June 21 to July 5.

He advised all party leaders, stakeholders and members to note the extension and be guided accordingly.(NAN)(nannews.ng)

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Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Governorship candidate urges respect for fathers’ contributions to society

Fathers

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Edo, Patience Ndidi, has sought respect for the vital contributions of fathers to the development of a better society.

Ndidi, known as Uwagboe, in a statement to mark father’s day, acknowledged the strength, love, and guidance that fathers bring into families.

She described fathers as first heroes, steadfast protectors, most impactful teachers, who shape societal values, instill discipline, and prepare their wards to face the world with courage and integrity.

According to her, fatherhood is a profound responsibility filled with challenges but also immeasurable rewards.

“To all the fathers, who have been working tirelessly to support and nurture their families, know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.

“Your dedication builds the foundation of our communities and strengthens the fabric of our society.

“Today, we celebrate your unwavering commitment and the critical role you play in our lives,” she said.

Ndidi also emphasised the need to acknowledge and support those who take on the paternal role of guiding the next generation like stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, mentors, and educators.

“Your influence helps to mold resilient and compassionate individuals who will lead our future.

“On this special day, I encourage all of us to reflect on the lessons and love we have received from the fathers in our lives.

“Let us strive to uphold these values and continue building a society that appreciates and respects the vital contributions of all fathers,” she said.

Nididi expressed her commitment to support policies that empowered families, enhance child welfare, and provide economic opportunities that would uplift every father and family in Edo.

Ndidi, who said that the strength and love from fathers have continue to inspire all, also pledged to work with all to build a brighter, more inclusive future in Edo.

“In this year’s governorship race, I stand as the only female among 17 candidates, a testament to our evolving society where every voice is needed and valued.

“I am here to build on the strong foundation laid by our fathers and to add new perspectives and ideas to our governance.

“The leadership and resilience shown by our men through decades have been instrumental, but today, I offer a vision of inclusive and sustainable progress for Edo.

“Together, we can embrace a future where leadership transcends gender and where our collective efforts lead to greater prosperity for all.

“This Father’s Day, let us celebrate not only what has been accomplished but also what we can achieve together.

“With a woman on the ballot, we bring a fresh and enriching perspective to the enduring work of our beloved fathers,” she said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Eid-el-Kabir: Atiku preaches sacrifice, love, peace

Celebration

By Emmanuel and

Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN) Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of this year Eid-el-Kabir  to demonstrate sacrifice, love and peace.

Abubakar in a statement by his media office on Saturday in Abuja, congratulated fellow Muslim faithful on the celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir festival.

He said that the celebration of Eid, as stated in the scriptures, was not merely a fanfare but an admonition to the people to have forbearance and show compassion in every situation.

“The message of Eid al-Adha is to remind ourselves about the commandment of God to show love to one another and uphold peaceful interpersonal relationships.

“The essential purpose of that message is that we must put our trust in God almighty at all times.

“Even in the face of current hard times that many Nigerians are passing through, we must never fail to put trust in God and, more importantly, extend compassion and safety to the vulnerable people around us.

“This means that as we go about celebrating today, we must ensure that we extend good tidings of support and charity to one another, especially those in difficulties,”he said.

The former vice president called on governments at all levels to be deliberate in initiating measures that will ease the hardship confronting Nigerians .

“As we know that the essence of the celebration today is about a restoration of God’s mercy, it is thus incumbent on government at all levels to take a cue from the divine instruction,” he said.

He  reminded Muslims in Nigeria and across the world to remember their responsibility of being good ambassadors of the religion by living their lives according to the practices and teachings of the noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

“The festivities that we are undertaking today is borne out of the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim and as also exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

“ It is thus our responsibility as Muslims to reflect on their examples in our lives by upholding the threshold of peace at all times, “AbubKar also added.

He wished every Muslim family a happy Eid celebration and prayed for God’s protection and safety for everyone during and after the celebration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited  by Joseph Edeh

INEC publishes final list of candidates for Ondo governorship election

Candidates

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of candidates and their running mates for Nov. 16 Ondo State governorship election.

Mr Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee,disclosed this in a statement issued  in Abuja on Thursday.

According to him ,personal particulars of the candidates and their running mates have been published at INEC state and local government offices in Ondo State.

Olumekun said that in line with the provision of Section 33 of the Electoral Act 2022, two political parties, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) conducted fresh primaries to replace their earlier nominated candidates and their running mates by the deadline of June 10.

He also disclosed that five parties; the African Action Congress (AAC), the Action Democratic Party (ADP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), replaced their running mates only.

“Overall, 17 political parties are fielding candidates for the election. No political party has nominated a female candidate while one candidate nominated by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is a person with disability (a paraplegic).

“The final list also gives the breakdown of the candidates by age and academic qualifications.

“The list has been published at our office in Akure and also uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information,” he said.

Olumekun said that with the conclusion of the nomination process, political parties were now permitted to start public  campaigns from Wednesday (June 19) till the midnight of  Nov. 14.

“As parties commence this critical phase of the election, the commission once again reminds candidates, agents and their supporters of the provision of the law and the Commission’s guidelines governing such activity.

“For emphasis, parties shall conduct their campaigns with civility and decorum devoid of inciting language, violence, voter inducement and other infractions in accordance with the provisions of Section 92-97 of the Electoral Act 2022,” Olumekun said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Nigeria on path to greatness- APC Chieftain

Greatness

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Uche Nwosu, says Nigeria is on the path to manifest her greatness in all spheres of development.

Nwosu, Chief of Staff to former Imo Governor, Sen. Rochas Okorocha, in a statement on Thursday in Abuja said Nigeria’s journey to greatness was demonstrated in the 25 years of sustained democratic rule.

He said this had ultimately returned political power to the people, redefined leadership, restored hope and set the country on the path of rapid growth and development.

Nwosu, while acknowledging some challenges facing the country, called for a united action by stakeholders in the Nigerian project, to realise the dreams of the founding fathers.

He congratulated President Bola Tinubu and the entire nation on the 25 years of unbroken democratic rule, expressing optimism of a brighter future for all and sundry.

He urged Nigerians to have confidence in the present administration to deliver the expected dividends of democracy.

Nwosu said that Nigeria’s 25 years of unbroken democratic rule was a testament to the resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment of the Nigerian people to the principles of democracy and freedom.

“I call on Nigerians to embrace unity, love and respect for one another and to deepen their engagement in participatory democracy.

“We should guard against antidemocratic tendencies and ensure that our democratic values and culture are firmly entrenched at all levels of society.

“As we celebrate this historic day, let us remember the sacrifices of those who fought valiantly for the democracy we are enjoying,” Nwosu said.

Nwosu, also the President Ugwumba Leadership Centre for Africa, said June 12 was not just a date but symbolised Nigerians’ collective struggle for justice, equity and the rule of law.

“It is also a symbol of Nigerians’ aspirations for unity, hope, better standard of living, and true democratic practices, which the country is working toward.

“It is a reminder of the power of the people’s voice and the strength of our democratic institutions,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to building a Nigeria where democracy thrived, where the citizens enjoyed their fundamental rights and the future brighter for generations to come.

“All hands must be on deck in sustaining democracy to ensure the struggle of our founding fathers and heroes’ of democracy, including late Chief MKO Abiola, was not in vain,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chidi Opara and Abiemwense Moru

Democracy

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Edo, Patience Key, has enjoined Nigerians to actively participate in governance process and hold leaders accountable to deepen the country’s democracy.

Ndidi, the only female candidate in Edo governorship election on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the significance of democracy day lay in its call to action.

“It challenges us to look beyond the mere exercise of voting and to demand accountability from those we elect.

“It is a day that underscores the power of the people in shaping the future of our state and country.

“Our democracy can only thrive when we actively participate in the governance process, hold our leaders accountable and insist on policies that serve the common good,” she said.

Ndidi also called on citizens in Edo and Nigeria in general, to renew their dedication to building a state and nation that truly reflect the democratic ideals of fairness, inclusiveness, and prosperity for all.

“I urge every citizen of Edo to join hands with the PRP in this noble pursuit.

“Together, we can forge a future where our democracy is not just a system of government but a way of life that guarantees dignity and opportunity for every Nigerian,” she said

Nididi said that democracy was not a destination, but a journey that required constant vigilance, active participation, and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equality.

She called on Nigerians to pledge their commitment to be the guardians of the nation’s democracy, ensuring that it remains robust, vibrant and reflective of the aspirations of all Nigerians.

“Today, as we commemorate democracy day, we are reminded of the immense sacrifices and unwavering resolve of our forebears who fought tirelessly for the establishment of a democratic society in Nigeria.

“This day is not just a date on our calendar; it is a profound symbol of our collective aspiration for a nation governed by the principles of freedom, justice, and equality.

“Democracy day serves as a moment to reflect on the journey we have undertaken as a nation and to renew our commitment to the values that underpin our democratic system.

“It is a day to celebrate our progress, acknowledge our challenges, and chart a course for a future that truly reflects the will and aspirations of all Nigerians,” she said.

Nididi congratulated Nigeria on 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in the country.

She pledged to uphold Nigeria democratic values, be a beacon of hope for the marginalised, advocate policies that promote social justice, economic empowerment and transparent governance, which she said “PRP is known for”.

She said that her mission was to redeem Edo and nation from corruption, mismanagement and ensure that every citizen’s voice is heard and valued.

“In Edo, we face numerous challenges that require bold and visionary leadership.

“From the need for improved healthcare and education systems to the imperative of creating sustainable economic opportunities for our youth, the tasks before us are daunting but not insurmountable.

“The PRP is committed to addressing these issues head-on, with a clear and actionable plan that prioritises the well-being of all Edo citizens,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Kayode Olaitan

Registration

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 11, 2024 (NAN) The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says  a total of 269,992 new voters were registered in the just concluded Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) in Edo and Ondo.

The commission disclosed this in a statement by Mr Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, after its regular meeting on Tuesday in Abuja.

Olumekun said that of the 269,992 newly registered voters, 129,246 representing 47.87 per cent were male, while 140,756 representing 52.13 per cent were female.

“Still, the majority of the registered voters (182,541 or 67.61 per cent) are youths between 18 years and 34 years.

“In terms of occupation, 95,463 or 35.36 per cent are students while 1,588 representing 0.59 per cent are Persons with Disability (PWDs).

“In addition, 24,454 requests for replacement of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), 74,493 applications for voter transfer and 8,314 for information update were received,” he said

Olumekun, however, said the statistics were preliminary figures, adding that the final figures would be published on state by state basis after the period for claims/objections and Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) .

He added that the date for the commencement of collection of new PVCs would be announced thereafter.

Olumekun also disclosed that in line with Section 19 of the Electoral Act 2022,  the commission would display preliminary register of voters in the two states from Wednesday for claims and objections by citizens.

He said the register would be displayed for a period of seven days in all the 395 wards across the two states as well INEC website: https://cvr.inecnigeria.org/register.

Olumekun said the purpose of the display was for the public to identify any ineligible persons on the register and to draw the commission’s attention to it.

He said it was also for the public to file an objection to appearance of the name on the register by completing Forms EC2 and EC3 available from our officials in all the centres.

He said the forms could also be downloaded from INEC website – https://inecnigeria.org/?page_id=13655 – and handed over to the commission’s officials as provided in Section 9(4) of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Furthermore, fresh registrants and applicants for transfer, correction of personal details and replacement of lost or damaged PVCs can draw the commission’s attention to errors or wrong entries for further action.

“At the end of the period for claims and objections, the commission will further clean up the register using the ABIS before the list of new voters is added to the existing register for the two states,” he said.

Olumekun appealed to the public to seize opportunity of the display of the register to help INEC clean it up as provided by law.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

INEC warns personnel against unethical practices in Edo, Ondo

Warning

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Abuja, June 10, 2024(NAN) The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),  has warned its personnel against unethical and corrupt practices in the upcoming Edo and Ondo governorship elections.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu gave the warning on Monday  in Abuja at a  lecture in honour of late Abubakar Momoh, former Director-General of the Electoral Institute (TEI), from August 2013 to May 2017.

Yakubu, represented by the National Commissioner, and Chairman, Board of Electoral Institute, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, warned that any unethical practice before, during and after those elections would  incur severe punishments under the law.

The theme of the lecture was:  “Achieving Professionalism among Election Personnel through Effective Training in Preparation for the Edo and Ondo Governorship Elections.’’

Yakubu said the success of any election largely depended on the professionalism and competence of those responsible for conducting it.

He advised electoral officers to be guided by the following principles of integrity, impartiality, transparency, professionalism, gender and disability sensitive.

He said it was important for electoral personnel to be knowledgeable, skilled and well-equipped with relevant competencies to handle the complexities and challenges of the electoral process.

“Moreover, the crucial role election personnel play in upholding the integrity of our democratic processes cannot be overstressed.

“The manner, in which they discharge their duties and responsibilities, affects the degree of confidence voters will have in the electoral process which will impact on their participation and turn out,’’ he said.

Yakubu said that to ensure credibility and trustworthiness in elections and build trust among the electorate, INEC had always prioritised the professional development of its election personnel.

He said the commission identified effective and efficient electoral training as the key to unlocking professionalism among election personnel.

“The commission’s involvement in effective training programmes has empowered its staff to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, in order to strengthen our processes and procedures to serve the interests of all Nigerians,’’ he said.

He said that through training, INEC was able to deepen electoral knowledge and strengthen the skills and competences of personnel over time.

The TEI Director-General, Dr Sa’ad Idris in his remarks, said that INEC in pursuit of its mission and vision had prioritised professionalism toward achieving free, credible, transparent and inclusive elections.

“As we prepare for the 2024 Edo and Ondo  off cycle governorship elections, the commission is assured that the outcome of effective training of Election personnel will manifest in the high level of professionalism. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Uche Anunne