The Council of Traditional Rulers in the Southeast geo-political zone has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to consider the request for creation of additional two states in the zone.
The Chairman of the Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, made this request at the Forum of News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Abuja.
He said the request was part of a decision reached by the council at its last meeting.
Asadu added that the appeal for an additional two states is to address the imbalance in state creation, as the south east zone had only five states.
At a meeting, which was well attended by the traditional rulers in the zone, we agreed that we will accept any state creation from any part of the eastern states.
“We are united in this struggle. We have five states in south east, so we need to have two more states to be even.
“But whatever we get, we thank the president. We are at his mercy and God bless him for that.
“So when the state is given to us, we will endorse it. It does not matter where it comes from, it does not matter whose lawmaker sponsored the bill,” he said.
Speaking on the clamour for constitutional roles for the traditional institutions, Asadu said: “We want to have some constitutional relevance, some constitutional powers.
“Our monthly release of five per cent of the local government allocation to traditional rulers in the state have not been given by state governments.
“Traditional rulers play an important role in communicating government policies and programmes to members of the community.”
Igbo traditional rulers seek creation of two additional states in Southeast
Igbo traditional rulers seek creation of two additional states in Southeast
Kenneth Okonkwo dumps Labour Party, parts ways with Peter Obi
Kenneth Okonkwo, a former spokesman for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign council, has announced his departure from the party.
Okonkwo has also parted ways with former presidential candidate of LP, Peter Obi .
In a statement titled “Political Journey to a Great Nigeria,” which he shared on his social media platforms on Saturday, Okonkwo cited his disappointment with the party’s internal crisis and the failure of its former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to address it.
Okonkwo expressed his commitment to a great Nigeria built on equity, justice, and fairness, but stated that the current political parties, including the Labour Party, do not have what it takes to lead the country to greatness.
He said, “I am committed, irreversibly, to a great Nigeria built on equity, justice, and fairness, where every citizen will be free and able to aspire to any position or level in life without regard to primordial sentiments built around ethnicity, religion, sex, or circumstances of birth.”
“It’s obvious that the APC or PDP, as presently constituted, do not have what it takes to lead us to a great Nigeria. Indeed, their combined leadership is trying to cripple Nigeria as this blessed country is now down economically, politically, and in every other index, leaving the people with no other option than to protest for their survival. They can see no hope for the future.
“Unfortunately, by our Constitution, we need a solid political party with a solid grassroots base to be able to wrestle power from these kakistocrats and kleptocrats. We, therefore, need a decisive leader who will be able to build such a party of integrity and character from the grassroots because, eventually, the majority of the people that will populate a government will proceed from the political party of the leader.”
He likened a party to a political tree that produces the leadership cadre in government, stating that a corrupt tree cannot produce good fruits regardless of the leader’s integrity and intentions.
He attributed Nigeria’s problems to a lack of internal democracy within parties, which leads to the emergence of incompetent and corrupt leaders in government.
He emphasised the need for a decisive leader who can build a party of integrity and character from the grassroots.
“We also need a decisive leader who will be selfless enough, in boldness and bravery, to secure our victory, when the people vote for such a leader because these corrupt and incompetent leaders are not willing to conduct free and fair elections and will always grab, snatch power from any weak and indecisive leader, and run away with it. Our judiciary has not proved to be equal to the task of preventing the emergence of electoral bandits who steal electoral victories at gunpoint in the public glare of everyone.
“I am earnestly searching for such a leader who has the integrity and also the commensurate charisma and bravery to mobilise the people to sustain victory if Nigeria votes for such a person. The time for calm down is over.”
Okonkwo recalled the struggle to liberate Nigeria from corrupt leaders in 2023, only for the victory to be stolen. He expressed scepticism that the judiciary will deliver democracy due to judicial abuse, urging people to take control of their destiny by voting for the right president and ensuring that person is sworn in.
He also stressed the need for a decisive leader to stop the current suffering and prevent these leaders from remaining in power beyond 2027.
Okonkwo added that the current situation in the Labour Party has motivated him to pursue a new political direction, adding that after the 2023 general election, many Nigerians, including himself, had high hopes for the Labour Party.
Okonkwo said he believed Peter Obi had the potential to build a strong, integrity-driven party capable of overthrowing corrupt leaders but needed to provide the right directives, and everyone would follow.
Okonkwo said, “I received my first shock when he publicly declared that he didn’t promise Nigerians to build a strong Labour Party, but to solve Nigeria’s problems. I was like, does it mean HE Peter Obi is not aware that without a solid party base, we are heading nowhere politically? However, I continued in his defence believing he would still privately bring the needed solution to LP’s problems. To no avail.
“PO also publicly demanded that the Abure-led National Working Committee must organise an all-inclusive convention that will guarantee the participation of all members of the Labour Party in the choice of their leaders. This didn’t happen, and surprisingly, PO refused to disassociate himself from the shenanigans and criminal activities of the former NWC as their time had expired.”
Okonkwo said that every member of the Labour Party is confused about the party’s future due to a lack of leadership from Peter Obi. He admitted that when members look to him for guidance on Obi’s standpoint, he has nothing to say because he is unaware.
Okonkwo added that he cannot continue to speak on behalf of a leader whose stance on important issues is unknown to him, as he does not know how to manipulate facts.
He added, “I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers to the extent that some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP. The Labour Unions now have an unfortunate situation where they are fighting criminals who want to hijack their party when an ordinary statement from Peter Obi would have brought the solution. I cannot continue with this ambivalence forever.
“I am of course in full support of the Labour Unions and other stakeholders who are now compelled to fight for the soul of LP without the support of PO.
“However, the consequence is that I no longer have the confidence that PO has what it takes to build a party that can win against these kakistocrats and kleptocrats, and above all, he has proved that even if the people vote for him, he doesn’t have what it takes to secure the mandate. I don’t intend to embark on such a campaign as we did in 2023, projecting a person who cannot sustain the victory even if he wins.
“It’s in this regard that I have decided to continue my political journey into the great Nigeria of our vision without Peter Obi. I am always 100% loyal to a leader whenever I am working or following the leader. At any time I have doubts within me that I can no longer offer 100% loyalty to him, I will respectfully let everyone know. When I joined his campaign, I made it public; now that I cannot guarantee my support for his future political aspirations, I believe I owe it to everyone to let them know.”
Okonkwo said the decision to leave the Labour Party has nothing to do with joining the APC or PDP, as he remains committed to the Nigerian people and their aspirations for a better Nigeria.
He also noted that his decision to distance himself from Peter Obi is based on principles, not personal reasons, as he seeks a decisive, bold leader with integrity to confront corrupt leaders.
Okonkwo declared that he is free to negotiate and consult with like-minded individuals to determine the next step in their political journey, stressing that this will not involve joining the APC or PDP for now but may include consolidating the Labour Party.
Okonkwo stated that Nigeria must regain its greatness despite opposition from corrupt leaders. He emphasised that protest is a democratic right and should not be prevented, urging protesters to remain peaceful.
Okonkwo called on the government to use wisdom and restraint in managing protests, highlighting that good governance is the best way to avoid protests, as bad governance makes them inevitable.
Tinubu needs support to tackle economic challenges, says minister
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has urged citizens to support President Bola Tinubu in his efforts to find a lasting solution that will uplift every Nigerian.
According to him, the nation is in a transformative period, adding that the president needs the support of Nigerians to succeed in his quest to solve the country’s problems.
His appeal comes a few days before the proposed nationwide protests slated for 1 August in response to the economic hardship experienced by citizens in the country.
In a statement on Saturday, the Minister said the president is bold, audacious, and tenacious enough to face the difficulties bedevilling the country.
He said, “Sixty-four years after attaining sovereign status, our beloved nation has consciously strived toward the realisation of a better Nigeria. We stand at a pivotal moment in our history, where acknowledging our achievements and recognising the surmountable challenges ahead is essential.
“It is in this spirit of reflection and resolve that I find solace—and consider it a profound blessing—that we have a president who is bold, audacious, and tenacious enough to face these difficulties.”
The Minister noted that the President is aware of the plight of the citizens and is working towards resolving them.
He said, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated unparalleled boldness and tenacity in confronting and addressing the longstanding issues that plague our nation. His unwavering commitment to overcoming these challenges is evident in every action he takes. President Tinubu is acutely aware of the current plight of Nigerians, and he is working tirelessly and meticulously to resolve them.
“In these times of both challenge and opportunity, it is imperative that we, the people of Nigeria, come together with renewed vigour and unwavering support for President Tinubu’s administration. Our nation’s journey has never been easy, but it is through our collective resilience and patriotism that we have made significant strides.
“We call upon every Nigerian to stand united, embracing a strong sense of patriotism and national pride. Our support and commitment are crucial as President Tinubu leads us through this transformative period. He is not just a leader; he is a symbol of our collective aspirations for a prosperous and equitable Nigeria.
“Now, more than ever, we must rally behind President Tinubu’s vision for our country. His administration is dedicated to creating lasting solutions that will uplift every Nigerian, ensuring that our future is one of hope, opportunity, and justice. Let us renew our commitment to this noble cause, knowing that together, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve the Nigeria of our dreams.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remember that the strength of our nation lies in our unity and our unwavering belief in a brighter future. President Tinubu is leading us with courage and determination, and with our support, there is no challenge we cannot surmount.”
Don’t copy Kenyans, hunger protests may have unintended consequences in Nigeria – Tajudeen warns
With few days to the planned nationwide hunger protests in the country, Nigerians have been warned against copying the recent protests in Kenya, as it could have unintended and detrimental consequences.
Ambassador Ibrahim Tajudeen Shola issued the warning in a statement in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Sunday.
While asserting that the Kenyan protests highlight the potential power of public dissent, he argued that “rather than follow a disruptive path, Nigerians should focus on constructive engagement, support for ongoing reforms and holding local governments accountable.
“By working collaboratively within the framework of democratic processes, we can address our challenges more effectively and build a more stable and prosperous future,” he stated.
According to Ibrahim, “In recent weeks, calls for protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu have surged across Nigeria. While dissent and public demonstrations are integral to a healthy democracy, the current wave of calls for protests appears to be premature and counterproductive given the administration’s significant efforts to address our nation’s economic woes.
“President Tinubu’s administration has undertaken a series of ambitious economic reforms designed to tackle Nigeria’s long-standing challenges, including rampant unemployment and economic instability.”
He explained that the initiatives, though met with some immediate hurdles, aim to stabilize the nation’s economy and create sustainable job opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
However, the scope of these reforms, ranging from regulatory changes to investment in infrastructure, requires time to manifest tangible results.
“Yet, rather than supporting these crucial reforms, recent calls for protests risk undermining the very foundation upon which this economic recovery is being built.”
Ambassador Ibrahim advanced reasons why the Kenyan experience should not be allowed in Nigeria, saying “the demonstrations, marked by thousands storming the Kenyan Parliament and parts of the building being set on fire, underscore a critical point.
“While protests can be a powerful form of dissent, copying this approach in Nigeria could lead to adverse consequences and fail to address our unique challenges effectively.
“The protests in Kenya, sparked by the Finance Bill 2024, highlighted significant public unrest over proposed tax increases.
On June 25, 2024, thousands of protesters stormed the Kenyan Parliament Building in Nairobi, driven by outrage over the bill’s proposed tax hikes.
“The situation escalated with some protesters setting parts of the building on fire, leading to considerable property damage and further unrest.
“While the intensity of these protests captured global attention, they also illustrate several risks and challenges that Nigeria should carefully consider before adopting similar tactics.
“Nigeria has avenues for constructive engagement that could lead to more effective solutions. Engaging in dialogue with policymakers, participating in public consultations, and using democratic processes to address grievances are more productive ways to influence policy without causing widespread disruption,” he added.
Don’t copy Kenyans, hunger protests may have unintended consequences in Nigeria – Tajudeen warns
Lagos debunks claim of revoking building permits
The Lagos State Government has clarified that it did not revoke all existing building permits, contrary to some online reports.
Instead, the government explained that it had opened a three-month amnesty window from May 2 to July 30, 2024, allowing property owners to obtain or perfect their planning permits without the usual statutory penalties.
In a statement by the Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State Building Control Agency, Oloye Olusegun, he noted that this clarification became necessary following a misleading headline report in an online news medium, stating that the Lagos State Government revoked all existing building permits.
He clarified, “It should be noted that the issuance of a Planning Permit is the prerogative of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA, which is under the supervision of the Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development.
“The directive issued by the Special Adviser on eGIS and Urban Development, Dr Olajide Babatunde, was that Letters of Authorisation to commence construction, issued by the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, needed to be revalidated because most developers, after obtaining the letter to commence construction, fall short of engaging all relevant professionals in the building projects.”
He asserted that the revalidation was to allow the agency to conduct a proper audit and authentication of all the professionals who would be engaged in building construction in the state.
He added, “Dr Babatunde also disclosed that buildings under construction that had been abandoned for a long time needed to be re-certified before recommencement of construction to ascertain the structural stability of the building project.
“He directed that henceforth, nobody should sleep in buildings undergoing construction, all construction work should not go beyond 7 pm every day, and there should be no building construction work on Sundays.”
Oloye noted that the Special Adviser further directed that property owners and developers should revalidate all letters of authorisation to commence building construction issued to them.
“Dr Babatunde called on developers to always ensure that all relevant professionals in the built environment, such as civil/structural, electrical, and mechanical engineers, and architects, are engaged in building construction,” he concluded.
The Lagos State Government had extended the provision of amnesty for owners and developers of existing buildings without planning approvals in the state by three months.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Oluyinka Olumide, disclosed this during a briefing in Ikeja recently.
He said, “Considering the high rate of applications since the beginning of the amnesty programme, the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the extension of the programme by another three months, starting from August 1, 2024, to the end of October 2024 to allow more people to benefit from it.”
Kano govt vows to navigate full local government autonomy
The newly-inaugurated Forum of Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs has pledged that the formation will have a significant effect across the country regarding the recent court decision on local government autonomy, especially issues like financial autonomy.
Kano State Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who doubles as the newly-appointed Chairman of the forum, made this disclosure during the Forum’s inaugural caucus meeting held in Abuja on Saturday.
According to a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, and made available to journalists on Saturday, the Forum chairman explained that they will not appeal any decision ruled by the Supreme Court but will instead navigate to find a safe way of conducting the administration of their respective local government ministries.
He noted that the local government service is facing numerous challenges resulting from the Supreme Court’s decisions, and the Forum has more reasons to come together, discuss, brainstorm, and find a way forward.
Gwarzo reminded that it is a known fact that the chief executives of every state and the legislative arm rely on the ministry for many things from the local government.
He emphasized that local government and chieftaincy affairs in any state are by no means a small ministry but a very large and critical sector that needs someone who is really trusted by the chief executive to head that ministry.
The Commissioner acknowledged that local government, as constituted in modern times without traditional institutions attached to it, is a very big and enormous task, now combined with chieftaincy affairs coupled with its dire demands.
He stressed that the Forum coming together to discuss and address emerging issues regarding their respective local governments nationwide is commendable and a historic step towards harnessing collective expertise to drive progress and strengthen the third tier of government.
Gwarzo also acknowledged that there are still some gray areas regarding the existence of local government in the country in terms of finances, administration, and elections, among other rising issues triggered by the Supreme Court’s decisions.
“The forum aims to create a platform to discuss how to advise their principals to improve the system across the country,” he said.
Aminu has been in the local government for the past 28 years, serving as chairman in 1996, and is currently charged with supervising the affairs of state ministries of local government and chieftaincy affairs.
Kano govt vows to navigate full local government autonomy
Insecurity: LG autonomy will address security challenges in Zamfara – Jaji
A federal lawmaker representing Birnin Magaji/Kaura Namoda Federal Constituency in Zamfara State, Hon Aminu Sani Jaji, has assured that the teething security challenges in Zamfara and other parts of the country will be addressed with local government autonomy.
He said that the main cause of the ravaging security challenges is that most of the youths in the country have no means of livelihood, noting that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.
Hon. Jaji further stated that the teeming unproductive population lacks education and skills, stressing that this remains the root of banditry and other forms of criminality.
He disclosed this during a public lecture and interactive session organized by the Zamfara State Students Association (ZAMSSA), Ahmadu Bello University chapter, on Saturday, where he was the guest speaker.
The federal lawmaker stressed the need for governments at all levels to pay more attention to policies promoting education as a means to address insecurity in Zamfara State and Nigeria in general.
Hon. Jaji further stated that it is an unfortunate system where governments at all levels could unregrettably handle the issue by providing education and skills to the teeming illiterate youths.
He expressed that it is total ignorance on the part of the governments regarding the reality of the causes of security challenges faced by almost all communities in Nigeria.
“Although local government autonomy would no doubt help to reduce the threatening rate of banditry and other forms of criminal activities, as well as cattle rustling, farmers/herders clashes, and communal clashes,” he said.
The lawmaker further commended the granting of local government autonomy as it is the closest tier of government to the people and holds the key to unlocking grassroots development, economic growth, and improved service delivery.
“In a nutshell, local government autonomy refers to the freedom of local governments to manage their affairs, make decisions, and allocate resources without undue interference from higher tiers of government.
“It is about empowering local communities to take ownership of their development, harness local resources, and address unique local needs.
“As we explore the importance of local government autonomy, we should consider its benefits, challenges, and successes.
“We will examine how autonomy can unlock economic growth and development, improve service delivery, and address local security and conflict resolution.”
Insecurity: LG autonomy will address security challenges in Zamfara – Jaji
APC chieftain mourns Ubah, says he was a great patriot
Deputy National Organising Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Nze Duru, has expressed sadness over the demise of the federal lawmaker representing Anambra South Senatorial District, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
The businessman-turned-politician died on Saturday in London, United Kingdom, at the age of 52.
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Duru lamented that Ubah announced his departure when his intellectual and political prowess were most needed.
He said the late senator was a great patriot, compassionate leader, and democrat.
“His life was marked by an unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria. He was a politician par excellence, a shrewd businessman, a philanthropist, a grassroots mobiliser, and a lover of his people.
“His legacies of service delivery to the good people of Anambra State and Nigeria at large, through the provision of scholarships for students, free healthcare, and support for the less privileged, will live forever. May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” the statement added.
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AfDB boss, Adesina, wife celebrate 40th wedding anniversary
The President of the African Development Bank Group, Akinwumi Adesina, and his wife, Grace, are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary on Sunday.
The former minister of agriculture shared lovely pictures of himself and his wife on social media, expressing his love for her.
He wrote, “40 years of loving and treasuring you, Grace (Yemisi), are the best years of my life. One love, one team, one goal. I love you, Honey.”
Akinwumi and Grace Adesina have two children, Rotimi and Segun.
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Nnamdi Kanu: His release’ll bring peace to Igboland – Southeast mornachs beg Nigerian Govt
The Council of South East Traditional rulers has pleaded with the Federal Government to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu.
The Chairman of the Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, made the appeal on Sunday in Abuja, saying his eventual freedom will reduce tension in the south east zone of Nigeria.
Igwe Asadu said that the council was in support of stakeholders call for his release such as the southeast governors, lawmakers and the entire people of the zone.
He said, “he is our son. He has been there for a long time, in spite of the ups and down with the judiciary.
“Off course, we back the Governors Forum and other stakeholders’ call for his release so that tension will be reduced.
“We before that the government will do its due diligence to ensure that people are guaranteed that the release won’t go beyond what is expected. There should be some form of measures, a deal to be made.”
According to the royal father, the eventual release of Kanu would to a large extent usher in a relative calmness and evoke joy to the people of the zone.
“If the president looks into that and gives him a pardon,we will be excited. It is affecting our area, because his absence. Some of the people are his die hard fans.
“So, who will want to have his son locked up for a long time, of course we are praying every day, all the traditional rulers are praying for Nnamdi Kanu to be released.
“We feel his pains and the pain of his family..
“It will be a gift, if the President does that. We come back to thank him in a big way,” he added.
Nnamdi Kanu: His release’ll bring peace to Igboland – Southeast mornachs beg Nigerian Govt