Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, visited Akure on Monday to rally support for the party’s candidate in the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, Chief Sola Ebiseni.

Obi, joined by key LP leaders, led a vibrant roadshow through the main streets of Akure to engage voters ahead of the Saturday election.

During the campaign, Obi urged the people of Ondo State to vote for the Labour Party and resist the influence of vote buying and selling.

He emphasized the importance of restoring integrity to Nigeria’s democracy, which he said has been undermined by transitional politics.

Obi told the crowd, “We are here for the gubernatorial campaign ahead of Saturday’s election. We know democracy is struggling in Nigeria, and while they’ve turned it into a tool for transitional politics, we must continue our efforts to build a new Nigeria. A Nigeria where a child of nobody can become somebody, a country with equal opportunities for all.”

He further elaborated on his vision for the country, stating, “We want to build a Nigeria where poverty is eliminated, where children have access to quality education, where hospitals function, and where we put an end to corruption. We don’t want stolen money to be used to buy our votes, only for those responsible to keep stealing from us.”

Obi also called for a shift from a consumer economy to a productive one, saying that the country needed to focus on job creation and economic growth.

“This is why we are campaigning. We want to stop the stealing and start rebuilding Nigeria.”

Chief Sola Ebiseni, the LP’s gubernatorial candidate, also addressed the crowd, claiming that the Labour Party was the most popular political force in Ondo State.

He pointed to the party’s achievements and initiatives in various parts of the state, which he said had made a significant impact on the lives of the people.

Ebiseni expressed confidence that Ondo voters would support the LP.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Monday, rejected repeated calls for the adoption of part-time legislators as part of proposed political reforms in Nigeria.

Speaking in Abuja at the opening of the one-day National Dialogue on a Home-Grown Parliamentary System of Government, Abbas argued that while the conversation around reform is timely, part-time legislators could undermine the serious responsibilities of lawmakers.

Abbas explained that the current advocacy for part-time legislators could diminish the critical role lawmakers play in lawmaking, representation, and oversight.

“A legislator’s work demands full-time commitment,” he stated, stressing that governance is a serious business that requires attention, accountability, and dedication.

The Speaker also discussed the broader issue of reform, noting that while there are ongoing debates about a unicameral legislature, Nigeria’s vast diversity makes a bicameral system essential for ensuring balanced representation across regions and ethnic groups.

He emphasized that any structural changes must be carefully considered to avoid unintended consequences for the country’s complex socio-political landscape.

“As we explore reforms, we must recognize that Nigeria’s unique challenges demand a governance model grounded in the country’s realities and values. A home-grown system should reflect not just procedural aspects, but the values, goals, and cultural nuances of the people it serves.”

He also highlighted the National Assembly’s commitment to professional development and capacity building for its members, committees, and support staff.

“We are focused on building resilience and professionalism through continuous training to better serve Nigerians,” Abbas added.

The event, which was attended by various stakeholders, also featured speeches from experts critical of the current American-style presidential democracy in Nigeria.

Dr. Usman Bugaje, a former presidential aide and guest speaker at the dialogue, lamented the worsening poverty, escalating insecurity, and widespread corruption that have persisted under the presidential system over the last 25 years.

He argued that while the country had experienced some peace in the early years of the Fourth Republic, the situation had deteriorated drastically with each passing decade.

“We’ve seen deepening poverty, rising insecurity, and pervasive corruption that continues to undermine the political system. These issues are fundamental breaches of democratic practices and contribute to a growing crisis in our democracy.”

Other contributors to the dialogue, including the former National Secretary of the defunct Action Congress, blamed Nigeria’s parliament for being ineffective.

They argued that the legislative body had become largely a rubber stamp, failing to play its constitutional role in holding the executive accountable.

The speaker called for a reinvention of Nigeria’s politics, suggesting that continuing to borrow systems from other countries could only lead to further failure.

Professor Ango Abdullahi, Chairman of the occasion and convener of the Northern Elders Forum, also critiqued Nigeria’s adoption of the American presidential system.

He contended that the system, which has been in place for 24 years, had not delivered the expected benefits for the Nigerian people.

Abdullahi called for the exploration of alternative systems of governance that are better suited to Nigeria’s history, traditions, and social realities.

“The American presidential system was a mistake for Nigeria. Our situation has worsened under this system, and it’s clear that we need to adopt a new approach, one that reflects our own history and experience.”

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki echoed similar concerns, stressing that the presidential system had failed to deliver the democracy Nigeria’s founders had envisioned.

He argued that it was time to craft a new system that addresses the country’s systemic problems, emphasizing the need for a home-grown solution, driven by inclusive dialogue between different generations of Nigerians.

Former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of accountability in any system of government.

He warned that without strict measures for accountability, no system would be able to resolve Nigeria’s current challenges of poverty, insecurity, and corruption.

The dialogue ended with a consensus that Nigeria needs a parliamentary system rooted in its unique political and cultural realities, but that reform must be approached with caution and careful consideration to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Abdullahi Gwarzo, the former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, has clarified that his dismissal by President Bola Tinubu had nothing to do with his performance in office.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Gwarzo expressed his surprise at the decision, stating that he had not been found guilty of any wrongdoing or subpar performance during his tenure.

“I was shocked by the dismissal because there was no accusation against me regarding poor performance or misconduct,” Gwarzo explained.

He also pointed out that as Minister of State, he worked closely with the senior minister, who oversaw a significant portion of the ministry’s activities.

Before the announcement of his removal, Gwarzo said President Tinubu had personally informed him of the decision, citing an imbalance in political appointments in Kano North as the reason for the change.

According to Gwarzo, the president explained that the region had an overrepresentation of political officers, necessitating a more balanced distribution.

However, Gwarzo felt the reasoning was insufficient and suggested that other individuals may have played a role in his removal.

The former minister also expressed disappointment with the choice of Yusuf Ata as his replacement, arguing that the slot should have gone to Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, the 2023 governorship candidate for Kano.

“If the ministerial slot was intended for Kano Central, we have a capable candidate in Gawuna, who is also a key leader in the region. He should have been offered the position first,” Gwarzo stated.

He added that if Gawuna declined, the role could then be offered to another candidate.

Gwarzo pointed out that similar positions had been given to candidates from other states, such as Plateau and Zamfara, who had contested for governorship elections.

This, he suggested, should have been the case for Kano as well.

Gwarzo emphasized that his removal was not related to his performance, and he remains perplexed by the rationale behind his dismissal.

Edo State Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, has appointed Fred Odianosen Itua as his Chief Press Secretary (CPS).

The announcement, made on Monday, revealed that Itua’s appointment will take effect from November 12, marking the first key appointment in Okpebholo’s incoming administration.

Itua, who previously served as the assistant political editor at The Sun Newspapers, brings a wealth of experience in journalism.

He has also worked with Leadership Newspapers in the past.

A graduate of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, Itua holds a Master’s degree in Media Arts from the University of Abuja.

He is currently in the final stages of completing his PhD thesis in Development Communication at Veritas University, Abuja.

With extensive experience in covering critical sectors such as the National Assembly, migration, health, anti-corruption, and environmental issues, Itua is well-versed in both national and international affairs, which will provide valuable insight to Okpebholo’s administration.

The Obidient Movement, in collaboration with the Anambra State Support Groups, has reiterated that a transformed Nigeria is within reach, but only if the right leaders are chosen.

This message was underscored during a one-day symposium titled “Repositioning the Obidient Movement for Greater Impact”, held on Saturday at the All Saints Cathedral Auditorium in Onitsha, Anambra State.

The symposium served as a platform for the movement to emphasize the importance of electing capable and visionary leaders to guide the country toward progress and development.

The event was part of the movement’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its structure and increase its influence in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, stressed that a “new Nigeria” is achievable if Nigerians adopt a more discerning approach to leadership selection. He pointed to the legacy of Nigeria’s founding fathers—Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and Tafawa Balewa—who, despite laying a solid foundation, saw the country’s potential hindered by poor leadership.

Tanko highlighted that the movement’s mission is to ensure that the right leaders are elected, marking a decisive break from the era of bad governance.

“A new Nigeria is possible, but it starts with the people making the right choices when it comes to elections,” Tanko asserted.

He added that the Obidient Movement is focused on promoting ethical leadership, accountability, and unity across the country, with particular emphasis on empowering Nigerian youth.

The symposium also aimed to reorganize and restructure the movement, ensuring that its efforts are aligned with broader goals of social cohesion, justice, and national development.

The six core objectives outlined by Tanko included harmonizing efforts within the movement, fostering political unity, strengthening ethical leadership, and involving the diaspora in Nigeria’s reform process.

Tanko praised the ongoing support for the movement from the Southeast region and emphasized the importance of continuing to champion good governance from home.

He also spoke highly of Peter Obi’s dedication to Nigeria’s welfare, stressing that by 2027, Nigerians must ensure that only capable leaders, committed to the nation’s advancement, are elected into office.

Prof. Stella Okunna, the event’s chairperson, reinforced the significance of good governance in Nigeria’s quest for progress.

She commended the Obidient Movement for reinvigorating the spirit of activism and urged the movement to broaden its outreach, transcending party lines to attract wider support for its cause.

Sensitive materials for the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, set for Saturday, 16th November 2024, have arrived in the state capital, Akure.

The materials, transported by the Nigerian Air Force, were officially received by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) officials.

This development was announced in a brief update shared on the official X (formerly Twitter) page of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday.

The arrival of the materials marks an important milestone in preparations for a secure and efficient election process in Ondo State.

The INEC post stated: “Breaking News! Sensitive materials for the Ondo State governorship election, scheduled for Saturday, 16th November 2024, have arrived in Akure, the state capital, and have been received by officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria. The materials were transported to Akure by the Nigerian Air Force.”

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State hosted former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area (LGA), over the weekend.

The meeting, which included Speaker of the House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, some of Otti’s aides, and members of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, has ignited speculation about a potential political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections.

Although Kwankwaso stated that his visit was to condole with Governor Otti on the passing of Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the first governor of old Abia State, political observers quickly noted the timing of the visit amid rumors of growing political collaboration between the two leaders.

Onu, who passed away recently, was buried in his hometown of Uburu in Ebonyi State on Friday.

Kwankwaso’s visit coincided with a reception hosted by Governor Otti for 15 Abia indigenes who recently graduated from the Nigeria Police Academy in Kano, further fueling discussions about the political significance of the gathering.

Political analysts suggest that Kwankwaso’s presence in Abia was part of a broader effort to strengthen opposition forces ahead of 2027.

“With 2027 fast approaching, it’s unlikely that two influential figures like Kwankwaso and Otti would meet without discussing the presidential election,” said one analyst.

“They are both aware that the only way to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the APC in 2027 is through a united and formidable alliance.”

The local government elections in Abia last month saw remarkable success for candidates loyal to Governor Otti, who won nearly all chairmanship positions under the platform of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

This success followed a series of legal battles concerning the legitimacy of leadership within the Labour Party (LP), which has been divided into factions, one led by Julius Abure and the other supported by Peter Obi and Otti, with Nenadi Usman, former Finance Minister, at its helm.

Analysts suggest that if key opposition figures—Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Obi, and Kwankwaso—fail to resolve their political differences and present a unified front with a strong presidential candidate in 2027, they risk missing an opportunity to challenge the dominance of the ruling APC.

During the visit, Otti expressed gratitude to Kwankwaso, recalling how, in May 2022, Kwankwaso had offered him a platform to run for governorship when Otti was still considering his political options.

“Thank you for your guidance, for your patriotism, for everything you did for this country. You encouraged me not to lose hope, even when it seemed like all was lost. That call you made in May 2022, offering me your platform, meant a lot to me.”

Kwankwaso, for his part, congratulated Otti on his successful governorship bid, praising his leadership and the positive feedback he had received about the governor’s achievements.

“From what I have heard and seen, you are doing well. Your projects are evident everywhere,” Kwankwaso said.

Both leaders took the opportunity to address the newly graduated police officers, urging them to serve with dedication and professionalism.

Governor Otti encouraged the officers to work hard and be exemplary, noting that anyone, regardless of their background, could achieve success.

“If people like us, who had no hope in the past, can make it, there is no reason why you can’t reach your goals. Do things the right way—cutting corners doesn’t get you far.” Otti said.

Kwankwaso also offered advice to the new officers, urging them to maintain professionalism in their duties.

“Fear God first, and always be professional in your work. You are now part of a prestigious institution—stay true to the values of professionalism.”

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has condemned the recent visit by its former presidential candidate, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State.

The party described Kwankwaso’s meeting with Otti on November 9 as a “deceptive ploy” and linked it to a recent Abia State High Court ruling that affected the party’s internal structure.

The party’s internal crisis has escalated following the expulsion of Kwankwaso, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, and members of the Kwankwasiya group from the NNPP.

This crisis has also intensified within the Kano State chapter of the party, where members have reportedly called for a reduction in Kwankwaso’s influence over the party’s activities.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Abdulrasalam Abdulrazaq, reiterated that Kwankwaso and his group had been expelled from the party.

He added that any efforts by the expelled members to claim leadership within the party would be considered “irresponsible” and an act of “impersonation.”

The controversy stems from an Abia State High Court ruling, which mandated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transfer control of the NNPP to the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), led by Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, in line with the party’s 2022 constitution.

The NWC urged Governor Otti to stay out of the party’s internal matters and avoid being dragged into what it called Kwankwaso’s attempts to destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party also accused Kwankwaso of using his position to create division within the NNPP since joining in 2022, claiming that his ultimate goal was to “hijack” the party for personal advantage, thereby betraying the trust of its founders.

Reaffirming its support for the court’s ruling, the NWC stated that Kwankwaso’s objections to the decision should be pursued through legal channels rather than through political tactics or meetings with state governors.

The statement emphasized that INEC, not Kwankwaso or his group, had the authority to challenge the court’s order.

Furthermore, the NWC criticized Kwankwaso’s recent comments to police officers in Abia, questioning the consistency of his call for a “fear of God” given his actions within the NNPP and in Kano State.

The party argued that if Kwankwaso had truly adhered to that principle, he would not have sought to seize control of the party for his personal interests.

The NWC reaffirmed Dr. Boniface Aniebonam as the legitimate chairman of the BoT and NNPP founder, declaring that the expulsion of Kwankwaso and his group is final and crucial to restoring peace within the party.

The NWC further emphasized that only INEC had the legal standing to appeal the court’s decision, signaling a clear stance on the issue.