Category: Politics

A former aspirant of the Labour Party in the 2024 Edo Governorship Election, Kenneth Imasuagbon, on Wednesday joined the African Democratic Party, accompanied by his supporters.

Imasuagbon also picked up the party membership card in Benin after his admission into the party.

Popularly called the ‘Rice Man’, Imasuagbon had previously contested for the governorship seat under the Peoples Democratic Party and the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, now known as the All Progressives Congress. He lost the Labour Party ticket to Olumide Akpata in 2024.

However, he said he would continue to look at the party that was working for genuine change in the country and Edo State.

He said, “The African Democratic Congress is the only alternative political party that will rescue Nigeria from its present pitiable state. I saw the Labour Party as a rescuer, but unfortunately it turned out to be a sham. The ADC is in tandem with his belief as a person who has the common man at heart.

“I have found an alternative. I have found a credible vehicle. An alternative that is genuinely for change. An alternative that wants to reduce the price of food. An alternative that loves the common man. An alternative that loves the Okada rider. An alternative that loves the widow. An alternative that loves the students. That alternative is ADC.

“Therefore, I call on all well meaning Nigerians to join the moving train. We have decided today to rescue our dear country. This is the vehicle. There is no other one.”

Imasuagbon lamented that due to the harsh economic conditions in the country, he can no longer distribute rice to Edo people, particularly the less privileged, as he used to do during Christmas.

“I’m tired, very tired that a bag of rice that was sold ₦7,500 some years ago is now being sold for over ₦100,000. I can no longer buy rice to share with the poor people and widows of Edo State. I’m really tired.

“I’m tired because I can no longer buy fuel. Some years ago, fuel was ₦65 per litre, today it is almost a ₦1000. Nigerians are tired. We are concerned that our children will graduate but be unable to find jobs.

“We are all Nigerians. Nobody can threaten anybody. We want to make Nigeria and Edo better than we met them. I am not satisfied with the poverty in the land. I am calling on all Nigerians to join in. I am ready to lead the battle for change.”

Earlier, the state party chairman, Kennedy Odion, described Imasuagbon as a man of the people. He said the ADC, being a moving train, has provided a platform for every Nigerian with the aim of rescuing the country.

Odion, who said the road to rescue Nigeria may be rough but shall surely be a reality, asserted that Nigerians will soon experience a massive exodus to the party.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says his administration is committed to resolving pension challenges through honest dialogue and inclusive decision-making.

Otti said this on Tuesday when the national leadership of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners paid him a visit in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.

He noted that resolving the pension challenges in the state required collaboration, deep reflection, and goodwill from all parties involved.

He clarified that the backlog of pensions predates his administration but expressed his willingness to manage the situation.

He said that the exact figure of the backlog of pensions had remained uncleared as pension obligations kept growing with ongoing retirements.

He also said that there was a political will to solve the problem and expressed confidence in finding a workable solution.

The governor recalled inviting the state NUP leaders to his office on assumption of office to begin talks on the pension crisis.

He also recalled his administration securing N10 billion to offset part of the pension arrears based on amounts owed.

According to him, pensioners owed N1 million or less were paid in full, while larger amounts received partial payments.

Otti noted that in spite of the intervention, the state NUP leaders misrepresented the facts and frustrated genuine efforts at reconciliation.

Earlier, the National President of NUP, Mr Godwin Abumisi, urged the governor to forgive the state chapter of the union and reopen discussions.

Abumisi said that the document the state leaders of NUP signed with the government concerning gratuity was signed in ignorance and should be set aside in good faith.

“Whatever document they signed with the state government concerning their gratuity was signed in ignorance.

“I am here to plead with you to discard that document. After they signed it, they reported to me at Abuja and I said it is not done.

“We are not here today to argue whether they did it or not. Your Excellency I plead that you forgive them, they don’t know what they are doing,” he said.

Abumisi also commended the governor for prioritising salaries, pensions, and infrastructure describing him as a “star performer”.

Otti however thereafter immediately set up a negoriating team to be led by his Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Mr Godson Anucha, to revisit the state pension challenges.

Other members of the team include include the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, the Chief of Staff Dr Caleb Ajagba,Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, as well as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Dr Betty Emeka-Obasi.

(NAN)

Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, has signed the state Hisbah Board Bill into law, establishing the Hisbah Board as a statutory body to bring greater social order and moral discipline in the state.

This development comes days after the state House of Assembly passed the bill at its plenary session, aimed at supporting the activities of the Jigawa State Hisbah Board across the state.

Speaking shortly after signing the bill into law, at a mini ceremony held on Tuesday at the Council Chamber, Government House, Dutse, the state capital, during the weekly State Executive Council Meeting, Namadi described the occasion as a remarkable achievement, marking the culmination of over eight months of legislative and administrative effort.

“Today, we have signed into law the Hisbah Bill, which establishes the Hisbah Board as an official institution in Jigawa State,” he said.

The governor added that “This is a process that began seven to eight months ago, and today, by the grace of Allah, we have concluded it.”

Namadi expressed hope that the Hisbah Board’s operations would bring greater social order and moral discipline to the state.

He urged Hisba personnel to conduct their duties with the fear of God, fairness, and dedication.

The governor also commended the Hisbah Board Establishment Committee members for their commitment, hard work, and sacrifice in diligently carrying out their mandate.

“Their efforts have been instrumental in bringing the bill to fruition,” he noted.

He added, “With the signing of this law, the Hisbah Board is now fully empowered to operate across Jigawa State in line with its mandate to promote moral guidance, social justice, and community well-being.

“The establishment of the Hisbah Board as a statutory body will undoubtedly enhance its effectiveness in promoting moral values and social justice in the state.

“The board’s operations are expected to have a positive impact on the community.”

He described the state government’s decision to establish the Hisbah Board as a testament to its commitment to promoting moral guidance and social justice, adding that “the board’s work will be crucial in shaping the state’s social fabric.”

Highlighting more on the Board’s mandate, Namadi explained, “The Hisbah Board’s mandate includes promoting moral guidance, social justice, and community well-being.

“With the new law, the board can now operate with greater authority and effectiveness.”

As the Hisbah Board begins its work, Namadi cautioned that it is essential for the Board personnel to conduct their duties with integrity and fairness.

“This will ensure that the board’s operations are effective and beneficial to the community,” he said.

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has warned against threats to opposition leaders.

Atiku, in a post on his X handle on Tuesday, stated that any threat against Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is a threat to all opposition figures.

He wrote, “Let it be known that a threat against Peter Obi or any of us is a threat against all of us!”

The former vice president’s reaction followed comments by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who, while addressing supporters at a rally in Benin City last Friday, warned Obi to obtain security clearance before visiting the state.

“If Peter Obi wants to come here, he should seek proper security clearance. We cannot guarantee his safety otherwise if anything happens to him here, he will have himself to blame. I’m not joking,” he had said.

He further claimed that the last time Obi visited the state and made a donation of N15 million to a nursing school in the state, there was unrest in the state leading to the death of some people.

Amid backlash from many Nigerians and notable individuals, the governor insisted that his comments were misinterpreted, stressing that his call was a security protocol and not hostility toward the opposition leader.

The governor slammed the critics, adding that the statement should not be misconstrued as a threat.

In a statement on Sunday, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said that his principal’s statement was given various misinterpretations.

“The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to various misinterpretations surrounding the recent remarks made by Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, regarding the visit of Peter Obi to the state.

“It is imperative to state clearly that the governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr Obi, but rather emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.

“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike.

“This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention.

“When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats,” the statement read.

Itua said the governor’s position was relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.

He noted that the state had witnessed its share of tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years.

He noted that public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger.

He added, “The governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility…

“Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.

“Furthermore, the governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points.

“The state government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives.

“We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.”

The Peoples Democratic Party is set to commence its 101st National Executive Committee Meeting on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Abuja.

The crucial three-day gathering, which extends through Thursday, July 24, and Friday, July 25, is expected to address key party matters, internal reforms, and strategic planning ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This was contained in a special announcement issued by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba, on Tuesday.

The party said the meeting will be held at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja with proceedings scheduled to begin at 2pm daily.

The statement read, “The 101st NEC meeting brings together a broad spectrum of the party’s leadership, as stipulated under Section 31(1) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017). Expected attendees include the National Chairman, serving and former Presidents and Vice Presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who are members of the party, and the Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Trustees (BoT), along with all other BoT members.

“Also slated to participate are Principal Officers of the Senate and House of Representatives who are members of the PDP, alongside up to 18 serving Senators and 24 serving members of the House of Representatives, spread across the country.

“All State Governors who are members of the party, all National Officers of the Party (NWC Members) and their Deputies, and all State Chairmen are also expected. The NEC further includes six ex-officio members, all former National Working Committee members, former Principal Officers of the National Assembly produced by the Party, and all former State Governors produced by the Party, provided they remain members.”

Ologunagba underscored the party’s confidence and readiness.

He said, “PDP is the only party with the structure, national spread and credibility to unseat the APC.

“There is no community in Nigeria where you won’t find PDP members. Nigerians are tired of failed governance and are eager for the return of the PDP.”

The PDP meeting, according to Ologunagba, comes amidst ongoing efforts by the PDP to reposition itself and consolidate its national presence and electoral strength.

“Discussions are anticipated to cover a range of issues vital to the party’s future, including internal reconciliation, preparations for the upcoming national convention, and strategies to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general elections.

The PDP, with its rallying cry “Power to the People!”, aims for a united front as it navigates the current political landscape and prepares for future electoral contests.

The Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria has expressed grief over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a labour-friendly president.

In a press statement on Tuesday, signed by the National President, Dr. Kabiru Minjibir, and the Secretary General, Auwalu Kiyawa, the union extended condolences to the late president’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, the entire Buhari family, and Nigerians.

“Late President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR was not only a patriot but also a visionary leader, a selfless elder statesman, a man with inner strength, and dedication to serve Nigeria dutifully,” the union stated.

The union noted that Buhari was admired and trusted by Nigerians who believed in him as a democrat.

The union also pointed to Buhari’s policies aimed at supporting the poor and vulnerable in society, including the school feeding programme, which it said drastically reduced the number of out-of-school children. It also cited social investment and poverty alleviation programmes that provided stipends to families.

According to the statement, Buhari resisted calls from the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and their leaders for a sudden removal of fuel and electricity subsidies, opting instead for a gradual approach to protect ordinary Nigerians.

MHWUN acknowledged the former president’s role in initiating the Anchor Borrowers Programme for farmers, describing it as a master stroke to boost food production.

The statement read, “The late President will always be on our minds as a labour-friendly president. He unprecedentedly increased the retirement age for teachers from 60 to 65 years and 35 years of service to 40 years, with a new teachers’ salary structure. The health sector and other sectors of the civil service have recently also benefited from this bureaucratic structural innovation.

“Without hassles, late President Buhari signed into law the N30,000 (Thirty Thousand) Naira minimum wage. His fight against the global health dragon called COVID-19, which claimed millions of lives in more civilised climes but with little impact in Nigeria, is very much commended to this day. He built the Second Niger Bridge. He also revived and brought to life and light our once abandoned railway system. He maintained infrastructures around the country — the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, etc.

“Most importantly, he was a military governor of North Eastern State, a former Minister) Federal Commissioner of Petroleum, he built the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries, a former military Head of State and an Executive President of the country for eight years. Yet, an iota of corruption was not found in him.”

The health union workers further said, “In fact, his death is an unimaginable colossal loss not only to Nigeria as a country, but Africa as a continent. He did everything possible within his power to touch positively the lives of Nigerians and Africans, especially those within our sub-region — ECOWAS.”

The Edo State Government on Sunday said that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s warning that the Labour Party’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, should get security clearance before coming to the state, should not be misconstrued as a threat.

On July 18, the governor said that Obi’s visit to St Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences on June 7, where he donated N15 million for the completion of projects in the school, coincided with the resurgence of violence and the killing of three persons.

The governor said, “That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance.

“His visit coincided with a resurgence of violence in the state, and this will not be tolerated.”

However, in a statement by the governor’s CPS, Fred Itua, he said that Okpebholo’s statement was given various misinterpretations.

The statement reads, “The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to various misinterpretations surrounding the recent remarks made by Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, regarding the visit of Peter Obi to the state.

“It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi, but rather emphasised the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagements within the state.

“As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike. This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention.

“When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats.”

Itua added that the governor’s position is relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.

He noted that the state has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years.

He noted that public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger.

He added, “The governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility. The Holy Scripture reminds us that giving is best done in private, as Jesus admonished us in Matthew 6: 2 – 4 that, “when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpet…but when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

“In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.

“Furthermore, the Governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points. The state Government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives. We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.

“Governor Okpebholo is committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all. His administration is working tirelessly to address the insecurity it inherited, and his call for coordination and orderliness should be seen as a measure of responsible governance, not hostility. The Edo State Government will continue to welcome all well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected.”