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Tinubu not a Superman, Onanuga defends fall at Eagles Square

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The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has defended the fall of his principal during the democracy day event held at Eagle Square in Abuja.

According Online earlier reported that Tinubu approached the vehicle shortly after he arrived at the venue of the 2024 Democracy Day, but lost his footing momentarily as he was about to step into the vehicle.

However, despite the slip, the President regained his balance and continued with the proceedings.

The development has attracted several reactions from Nigerians. Some netizens mocked the President over the incident, and others downplayed it because the president went on with the ceremonial rounds.

Reacting to the incident via a post on his X handle, Onanuga stated that the President’s fall should not detract from the importance of the democracy day celebration.

The presidential aide asserted that the Nigerian leader was just human and anyone, including political leaders, could slip or fall.

Onanuga further cited examples of the current American President, Joe Biden, and his predecessor, Barack Obama, who slipped while in office despite his young age.

He wrote: “President Tinubu is not a Superman. He is human, like all of us. President Biden has had several slips in the last three years. Even the younger Barack Obama slipped while President. Political leaders are human. Slipping should not detract from the import of Democracy Day celebration.”

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Democracy Day: Nigerians still not free – Rights activist, Israel Joe

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A human rights activist based in the Niger Delta region, Israel Joe has said the people of Nigeria are not free given the economic and political situation of the country.
Joe made the assertion in a press release to mark the 2024 Democracy Day, saying, “On Democracy Day, I can boldly say that we are not free.”
He said, “Nigeria is not economically free, looking at the suffering and nosediving economic policies that have set a total decline for its people.”
Joe explained that “Nigeria is not free, looking at the lives and suffering state of the working class people in Nigeria.
“We are not free, looking at the fuel subsidy removal that has not been reflected in the average lives of the people.
“We are not free, with the rising cost of foodstuff in the market, that Nigerians are groaning, to purchase day in and day out.
“We are not free after twenty-five years of uninterrupted Democracy and can not boast of electricity power supply. We are not free.
“We are not free when we can not trust the process of our electoral umpires, thereby causing doubt to the most crucial process of democracy from which we derived this hollow Democracy Day called June 12.
“We are not free when our police and security forces still crazily extort, victimise, oppress, suppress, intimidate, over-detain, and harass the young people of Nigeria as though we are refugees in our own land.
“We hope that freedom begins from the minds of the elites to the agitations of the people. From the circle of injustice to the threshold of justice. From the lean path of inequality to the opposing path of equity. We hope and pray this day as we engage in another long work to genuine democracy.”
Democracy Day: Nigerians still not free – Rights activist, Israel Joe

Speaker Abbas, Yalleman commended for advancing police reform bill

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A pro-good governance group, the National Democratic Front has commended Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas for his handling of the Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Secretary General, Abdulkadir Musa, the group also commended the Chairman of the Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Yalleman, for his dedication to addressing security challenges in the country at all levels.

The statement read, ‘This amendment bill, which seeks to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Nigerian Police Force, is a significant milestone in the quest for a more robust, responsive, and people-friendly policing system in Nigeria.

“The bill’s provisions, which include the extension of police officers’ retirement age and service years, will undoubtedly lead to improved morale, retention of experienced personnel, and enhanced overall performance of the Force.

“We wish to express our heartfelt appreciation and commendation to the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, and the Chairman of the Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Yalleman for their landmark consideration of the Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

“We commend them for their demonstrated commitment to security sector reform and their responsiveness to the yearnings of Nigerians for a more effective and accountable police force, Musa said, adding that the consideration of the bill “Is a testament to their dedication to entrenching a culture of excellence, professionalism, and service delivery in our security agencies.’

Recall that the Police Act Amendment Bill recently passed a second reading during a plenary session on the floor of the lower legislative chamber.

The bill among others, seeks to review the service years of police personnel, improve the experience and expertise of the police workforce, retain experienced personnel, reduce the cost of training and recruiting new officers, improve morale performance and job satisfaction, and address the shortage of skilled personnel in the force.

Musa described the proposed legislation as timely; given the importance of having experienced security personnel in service to handle the worsening state of security in the country.

The body urged the Senate to concur with the House on the bill to enable President Bola Tinubu to assent to it without delay, saying, ‘We believe that this amendment will significantly contribute to the improvement of security and safety in Nigeria.

Democracy Day: Adopt 2014 Confab Report – Bishop Isong to Tinubu

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The Bishop of Christian Central Chapel International, CCCI, Bishop Emmah Isong has urged the federal government to adopt the report of the Sovereign National Conference of 2014.
In an interview, Isong who is also the national publicity Secretary of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria said, “Nigeria needs to go back to the report of the Sovereign National Conference of 2014 where all Nigerians came together to talk about issues like revenue sharing, balance in the region, equity, constitutional change and adopt its resolutions.”
Isong contended that if the country must move forward as a nation, issues of equity and justice and the immunity clause in our constitution among other issues should be looked into.
He stated that without this, the country will continue to go around in circles instead of moving forward.
The PFN boss who was reacting to the Democracy Day celebration disclosed that though Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted democracy for 25 years, only five percent of Nigerians have enjoyed democratic dividends.
According to him, only those in the corridors of power, as well as politicians, are enjoying the dividends of democracy in Nigeria.
He said the present democratic system in the nation favours the politicians more.
He was worried that, following what they benefit, politicians want to perpetuate themselves in the positions they occupy.
The clergyman further pointed out that there has been a deterioration of morality and fear of God in the hearts of the country’s leaders.
He stated that “the problem is not actually with democracy as a system of government but in the operation.”
Isong added that a lot of the politicians who win elections in Nigeria forget their manifestos immediately after they take their oath of office.
Isong said, “Nigeria needs a new kind of democracy with lots of constitutional adjustments and adaptability to suit its peculiar African culture.
“Nigeria cannot continue in a democracy where during elections, politicians arm thugs who go on a rampage with weapons and people run into their houses to hide and at the end positions are filled with the worst Nigerians.”
Democracy Day: Adopt 2014 Confab Report – Bishop Isong to Tinubu

‘Unfortunate incident’, Atiku reacts as Tinubu slips at Eagles Square

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the viral video that revealed the moment President Bola Tinubu slipped while boarding the presidential parade vehicle at Eagles Square in Abuja.

According Online reports that Tinubu approached the vehicle shortly after he arrived at the venue of the 2024 Democracy Day, but lost his footing momentarily as he was about to step into the vehicle.

However, the President quickly regained his balance and continued with the proceedings with the help of his security aides.

Sharing the now trending video on X.com, Atiku wrote, “I sincerely sympathise with President Bola Tinubu, #officialABAT, over this unfortunate incident as he was set to review the parade on Democracy Day.

“I do hope that all is well with him.”

Nigerians have also taken to social media to react to the video.

While some netizens mock the President over the incident, others downplayed it because the president went on with the ceremonial rounds.

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Democracy Day: Gov. Ododo, Ex Kogi Assembly Speaker, others tasks Nigerians on resilience

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As the nation marks 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo has urged Nigerians to continue to be resilient in the country’s journey to ensure justice for all citizens
In his democracy day message on Wednesday, Governor Ododo called on Nigerians to remain resolute and steadfast in the collective journey to sustain democratic governance which is essential to guarantee freedom of choice and the capacity of Nigerians to demand justice from those in positions of authority at all levels.
The Governor noted that the commemoration of Democracy Day must go beyond a day in our calendar but an auspicious opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of heroes who have made sacrifices to establish and sustain democracy in the country.
“As we celebrate Democracy Day and 25 years of uninterrupted civil rule in Nigeria, we salute the courage and determination of those who paved the way for the democratic governance we experience today.
“We must continue to honour their memory and pledge to uphold the principles for which they stood by ensuring that citizens continue to enjoy the freedom of choices and access to justice and the rule of law as enshrined in democratic principles.
“But beyond that, our people must be empowered to have decent lives by making our resources work in their interest and giving them opportunities to participate in economic activities at all levels,” Governor Ododo said.
While describing democracy as a continuous journey that requires the participation, vigilance, and dedication of every citizen, the Governor enjoined Nigerians to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his efforts to mobilize Nigerians and our resources to overcome challenges that hinder our progress and strive towards a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society.
Ododo called on the people of Kogi State to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic ideals of unity, peace, and development.
He stressed the importance of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect among the people to navigate the complexities of a diverse society, stressing that his administration is committed to building a state where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every community thrives as beneficiaries of the dividends of democracy.
“In Kogi State, we have made significant strides in strengthening our democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring the active participation of all our citizens in the democratic process. Our administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the continuous improvement of the welfare of our people,” Governor Ododo assured.
The Governor promised to sustain his consultation with all stakeholders to ensure an all-inclusive governance in the state.
In the same vein, the immediate past Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly Prince Mathew Kolawole called on Nigerians to be patient with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, adding that, in the long run, he will surely overcome the problem and move the nation forward.
Prince Kolawole noted that the governor of Kogi State has started very well stressing that his policy so far since he became the governor of the state has improved the wellbeing of the people.
The Kogi State Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) Comrade Gabriel Amari also called on Nigerian workers to be more resilient in the face of hardship.
Comrade Amari said the call became imperative given the economic challenges impacting workers negatively.
According to him, the NLC is working alongside the Trade Union Congress and all committees set up by the Federal Government to arrive at an acceptable new minimum wage for implementation.
The NLC Boss noted that democracy day is also a day of stocktaking by the nation’s leaders at all levels on the need to change the narrative for a greater Nigeria.
On his part, the immediate past Chairman, Trade Union Congress, TUC, in Kogi State Comrade Ranti Ojo called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in the face of present economic challenges.
Comrade Ojo, who is the current Chairman, Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, ASUSS, in Kogi State said the Government has put policies and measures in place which will soon start yielding results for a better Nigeria.
He called for sustained prayers for leaders in positions of authority as well as the need to remain hopeful for a greater nation.
Democracy Day: Gov. Ododo, Ex Kogi Assembly Speaker, others tasks Nigerians on resilience

Ijaw tasks Tinubu on economic crisis, restructuring

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The Ijaw National Congress has challenged President Bola Tinubu to solve Nigeria’s current economic crisis.

The apex body of the Ijaw nation has also implored him to address the imbalance in the number of local government areas in Nigeria as part of efforts to restructure the country.

INC President, Prof Benjamin Okaba, in a message to celebrate 2024 Democracy’s Day, declared that June 12 is worth celebrating, considering the relative human rights and freedom Nigerians have been enjoying under civilian administrations and the need to consciously immortalize the Iconic democrat, Chief M.K.O Abiola, who gave up his life on July 7th, 1998, in active democratic struggle.

He noted that the return to democratic rule has at least allowed the citizens to choose political leaders and advance their rights.

On the current economic crisis, Okaba demanded that the current Federal Government take urgent steps to overcome the hardship facing Nigerians, insisting that the masses who are battling with various livelihood and life-threatening challenges such as insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and criminality are becoming increasingly hopeless and helpless with each passing day

For the Niger Delta region, the INC helmsman said the expectation of the people is for the Tinubu administration to provide solutions to their challenges.

He said, ‘’The oil and gas-rich Niger Delta region, which is a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, expects the current administration to, without any further delay, address the multifaceted challenges facing the region in terms of Infrastructure development, environmental remediation, economic empowerment, good governance and inclusive representation in decision-making processes.”

According to him, the Ijaw people, who are one of the four largest ethnic nationalities and major producers of oil and gas resources in the country, expect greater commitment from President Tinubu’s administration to deal with ‘’her peculiar and persistent problems and concerns of resource injustice, lack of political inclusion, and representation in key political positions and decision-making processes, and environmental degradation.’’

Okada stressed that the Ijaw quest for true federalism was rooted in their desire for greater autonomy, resource control, and self-determination that would enable them to manage their affairs more effectively and promote their overall well-being.

“We wish to express our satisfaction with President Tinubu’s stance on restructuring. While we appreciate the need for more efficient management of our local government councils, which are the third tier of government that is also closer to the people at the grassroots, we want to caution those seeking local government council autonomy to first and foremost tackle a more fundamental injustice created by the wide disparity in the number of local government areas per state (where Kano, for instance, has 44 and Bayelsa at the other extreme has only eight).

“Granting local government council autonomy without addressing this politico-demographic imbalance amounts to the perpetration of criminal injustice, in-equity, and disregard for the sensitivity of the people of the Niger Delta region who have fewer Local government areas despite producing the wealth of the nation,” he said.

June 12: Credible elections best way to immortalize MKO Abiola — Gov Adeleke

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Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State says free and fair elections are the best way to honour the memory of the acclaimed winner of the June 12 presidential election, late Bashorun MKO Abiola, and other heroes of democracy.
Adeleke said this in a statement by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, to commemorate the 2024 Democracy Day on Wednesday.
He described free and fair elections as the lifeline of any virile democracy, acknowledging the sacrifices and struggles that paved the way for the current civil rule in the country.
He appealed to politicians in the country to submit themselves to upholding the tenets of democracy by respecting the will of the people.
According to the governor, the political class must recommit to strengthening the country’s electoral system to deliver credible elections and ensure that the will of the people is not subverted.
Calling election rigging an act of war, Governor Adeleke said: “Our best homage to our democratic heroes is our continued upholding the basic tenets of democracy. Such include free and fair elections and observance of the rule of law.
“We cannot on one hand celebrate democracy day and on the other hand undermine the democratic machine. You cannot be applauding the great memories of the late Bashorun Abiola and at the same time be working against free and fair elections.
“I call on leaders locally and nationally to re-dedicate ourselves to democratic ideals. The will of the people freely expressed must be accepted by genuine democrats. Our electoral system must be strengthened to deliver credible elections. Under no circumstances should the will of the people be subverted.
“Free and fair elections are the lifeline of any virile democracy. Politicians must grow to know and accept that power flows from the people. Rigging elections is an act of war against democracy. Genuine democrats accept electoral verdicts as a mark of respect for the voters, the ultimate holders of sovereignty. That’s what I did in 2018 when I was denied victory.
“If there is any lesson June 12 every year is to teach us, it is that democracy thrives when electoral candidates bow to people’s will. We must stop being autocratic in democratic garb.
“If you are rejected at an election, take it in good faith and prepare for the next round of election. After all, Abraham Lincoln failed several polls before his eventual emergence as American president,” Governor was quoted as saying.
June 12: Credible elections best way to immortalize MKO Abiola — Gov Adeleke

Gov Abiodun vows to uphold MKO Abiola’s vision of a unified Nigeria

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Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has said his administration would continue to uphold the good vision and desire of late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

Abiodun described the late Abiola as a completely detribalised Nigerian and a great son of Africa who wanted the best for everyone, irrespective of tribe or religion

The governor stated this while speaking during a special memorial prayer held at the Abiola family House, Oja Agbo, Gbagura, Abeokuta, in honour of the late MKO.

Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, explained that the late MKO wanted the best for everybody when he was alive, not minding ethnicity or religion.

“We are here to honour late MKO and pray for his soul and also celebrate 25 years of unbroken democracy in the country,” he said.

Abiodun explained that democracy had continued to thrive in Nigeria, saying that democracy had accorded the people the best leadership.

“We will continue to uphold what MKO believed in, democracy has continued to thrive. Democracy is what will give our people the best leadership,” he said.

The governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu for what he had done to better the lots of Nigerians, urging Nigerians to pray for the progress of the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Abiola family, one of his sons, Ameen Abiola, appreciated the state and the Federal government for always celebrating his father after his death.

He appreciated the Ogun government for preserving the heritage of Abiola’s family.

In his sermon at the memorial prayer, Alhaji Daud Toriola, Mufasir Egba Agura, described the late MKO Abiola as one of the greatest philanthropists the nation ever produced.

Alhaji Toriola, thereafter, prayed for the late Business mogul, the state and Nigeria.

Abiola was the presumed winner of the 1993 presidential poll annulled by the military government of Gen Ibrahim Babangida (retd.)

The renowned businessman, philanthropist, and politician died in prison on July 7, 1998.

Court sentences police inspector to death for killing phone dealer

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The Delta State High Court sitting at Asaba on Tuesday sentenced Inspector Ubi Ebri of the Nigeria Police Force to death on a murder charge.

The court presided over by Justice C. D Diai convicted and sentenced Ebri to death for killing a phone dealer, Onyeka Ibeh in Asaba.

The deceased, a popular phone dealer in Asaba, along with his wife was driving from Ugbolu to Asaba on April 5, 2023, when they were flagged down by the police team for search.

Ibeh had stopped and waited to be searched, but after a prolonged delay without being attended to, they decided to move on.

Infuriated by the action of the deceased, the police inspector immediately opened fire into the vehicle and the bullet hit Ibeh on the head.

The wife of the deceased, who was in the front seat, was unhurt.

The incident led to protests by youths along the streets of Asaba and to police headquarters to demand justice.

The prosecution, led by a Director in the Ministry of Justice E.H Edema, speaking to journalists after the judgement, said, “Today’s judgement is a landmark judgement because justice has been served in this case to the deceased and the society at large.”

Also, the older brother of the deceased, Ifeanyi Ibeh who witnessed the judgement commended the court for delivering justice to his family.

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