FEATURES

Nigeria’s GDP Grows By 3.46% In Q3 Of 2024 – NBS

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The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has disclosed that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.46%.

The growth showed an increase in economic performance from Q2 GDP of 3.19% and higher growth from 2023 Q3 GDP of 2.54%.

“Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.46% (year-on-year) in real terms in the third
quarter of 2024. This growth rate is higher than the 2.54% recorded in the third quarter of 2023 and
higher than the second quarter of 2024 growth of 3.19%,” it read.

According to the report released on Monday, the Q3 GDP growth was mainly driven by the service sector.

“The performance of the GDP in the third quarter of 2024 was driven mainly by the Services sector, which recorded a growth of 5.19% and contributed 53.58% to the aggregate GDP. The agriculture sector grew by 1.14%, from the growth of 1.30% recorded in the third quarter of 2023.

“The growth of the industry sector was 2.18%, an improvement from 0.46% recorded in the third quarter of 2023. In terms of share of the GDP, the services sector contributed more to the aggregate GDP in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the corresponding quarter of 2023.

“In the quarter under review, aggregate GDP at basic price stood at ₦71,131,091.07 million in nominal terms. This performance is higher when compared to the third quarter of 2023, which recorded aggregate GDP of ₦60,658,600.37 million, indicating a year-on-year nominal growth of 17.26%,” it stated.

Dele Momodu Reveals How Presidential Aspirant Paid Each Delegate $30K During Party Primary

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The publisher of Ovation Magazine, Dele Momodu, has revealed an aspirant gave $30,000 to each of the 774 delegates during the 2022 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary.

Speaking on the Key to Keys podcast show, Momodu expressed regret over spending nearly N50 million to purchase the PDP presidential nomination form, describing the primary as heavily monetised.

He also stated he would not contest for any party’s presidential ticket unless adopted as a consensus candidate.

He said, “No, experience is the best teacher, and I have come to realise that there are powers you can describe as principalities that control Nigeria.

“Unless a major political party decides to adopt me through a consensus that Dele Momodu is best suited to change and lead Nigeria, then I can consider it.

“But if I have to pick my money to go and buy a presidential nomination form of about N100 million and the last one I spent about N50 million buying the form. This could have gotten me a property and it was a waste, nobody voted for me – not even one vote because everything was monetized.

“There was one of the candidates who paid as high as $30,000 per delegate and we had 774 delegates, so how do you compete with them? They have stolen the country blind and doing all kinds of deals to make money, especially those in the oil-rich areas.

“It’s not easy and that’s why you can’t compete with them – that’s why they insult Nigerians anyhow because of the amount of money available to them in raw cash. There is no country in the world where people control raw cash like Nigeria.

“The bulk of their money is not in any bank so they are not traceable. If today you ask some politicians that look you need $500 million to become a President, they will find it. So people like us where will I start from? I’m not bothered.”

Last modified on Monday, 25 November 2024 14:16

PDP Crisis: Damagum Will Soon Be Taught Elementary Politics 101 – Dino Melaye

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Former Kogi Central Senator, Dino Melaye has slammed acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum.

Speaking on Monday, Melaye said Damagum and his paymasters will soon be taught elementary politics 101.

Melaye stated that Damagum has yet to learn the lessons from past primary elections held in Port Harcourt and Abuja.

Posting on X, Melaye wrote: “Damagum, his paymasters will be taught elementary politics 101. The lessons of Port Harcourt and Abuja presidential primaries have not been learnt. It is too early to determine the day at noon. Senator Dino Melaye.”

The PDP has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since the removal of the former acting National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu.

Recently, a faction of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) suspended Damagum, alongside the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.

However, the Abuja Federal High Court restrained the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT) from removing Damagum as the party’s acting National Chairman.

The court ordered that no other person must be recognized as the PDP National Chairman except Damagum until the party’s national convention, scheduled for December next year.

Why I Decided to Launch My Own Ministry After Leaving Winners Chapel - Bishop Abioye (Video)

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Bishop David Abioye has explained why he's setting up his own ministry after leaving the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel.

This is coming just after retirement from office as Vice President of Living Faith Church worldwide.

The revered cleric unveiled plans for a new spiritual platform titled Hour of Revival. The maiden edition of the Hour of Revival took place on Saturday at the Velodrome of the National Stadium in Abuja, drawing a large crowd of participants from diverse backgrounds.

Addressing the attendees, Bishop Abioye emphasized that the initiative was a divine directive.

Bishop Abioye further clarified that the revival platform is not his personal project but an ordained mission by God.

He called on participants to embrace personal revival as a pathway to corporate revival, expressing his hope that everyone in attendance would be transformed into fire-catchers and fire-spreaders.

The Hour of Revival, which is open to both saved and unsaved individuals, serves as an interdenominational prayer platform to rekindle spiritual fire and inspire personal and collective renewal.

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I Will Leave Office a Free Man, Without Being Afraid of EFCC – Governor Hope Uzodinma Declares

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The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has confidently asserted that he will conclude his term as a free individual, without fear of being targeted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or any other entity.

Uzodinma stated this following the Feast of Christ the King Mass at the Government House Chapel in Owerri.

Speaking on speculations regarding his years in office as a Governor, Uzodimma urged anyone possessing evidence of misconduct to come forward.

“I will leave office a free man, sleep with my two eyes closed without being afraid of anybody, including the EFCC,” he said.

The governor asserted that he has upheld all commitments made to the citizens of Imo.

He conveyed confidence in the legacy of prosperity, infrastructure, and dignity that his administration is creating for the state.

This declaration comes in the wake of the EFCC’s apprehension of former Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa on charges of misappropriating funds amounting to ₦1.3 trillion.

Meanwhile, the Imo State House of Assembly’s recent vote of confidence in Governor Hope Uzodinma has sparked mixed reactions among residents, with many questioning its necessity and relevance.

The legislators passed the motion on November 19, citing the governor’s “outstanding achievements,” but critics argue the lawmakers should focus on addressing pressing state issues rather than praising the executive arm.

Speaking to the Daily Post, retired principal Osondu Hyacinth Eriaja expressed dissatisfaction, saying, “I don’t think passing a vote of confidence is one of the legislative functions of lawmakers. They have much to do rather than reducing their duties to mere praise-singing.

“The governor, no doubt, has aides who can showcase what he has done to the public. Imo, lawmakers should allow the executive arm of government to praise itself. The Commissioner for Information, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and other aides are there to trumpet his activities.

“The lawmakers should focus on delivering effective laws that will address present challenges facing the state—such as bad rural roads and insecurity—and not act as the mouthpiece of the executive branch.”

Meanwhile, some residents, like Ugochukwu Akagha, defended the lawmakers, stating it is within their rights to commend the governor while still fulfilling their legislative duties.

“Doing so will not make them deviate from their primary responsibility of law-making,” he said.

Other citizens, however, urged the Assembly to prioritize urgent issues such as the state’s poor road network and ongoing security concerns, particularly with the festive season approaching.

‘Nigerian Artists Are Just Like Hustlers’ – Tiwa Savage

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Nigerian Afrobeats singer, Tiwa Savage, has asserted that hardship in the country is responsible for the huge amount of entertainers being churning out.

The singer made this known during an interview on the ‘Shopping The Sneakers’ podcast.

According to Tiwa Savage, serving in Nigeria is difficult, and artists are just like hustlers.

She said, “When you come to Nigeria, you will understand why we breed so many superstars. To survive in Nigeria is something else so that’s why the artists that come out of Nigeria are just like hustlers. They are just hustling.”

Osinbajo, Wife Celebrate 35th Wedding Anniversary

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Former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has expressed appreciation to his wife, Dolapo, as they celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary.

Naija News reports that the former presidential aspirant took to his Instagram page to share adorable photos of himself and his wife, including their children.

Osinbajo also thanked his wife for her willingness to give up everything for him and their children.

He added that Dolapo had written several books, run several national prayer meetings, run shelters for vulnerable women, trained thousands of young people in different skills, crocheted a storm, and developed numerous gardens.

He wrote, “My darling @dolapoosinbajo , every year of these 35 years you’ve proved that true love is not a myth or a fanciful phrase—through your willingness to give up everything for me and our children, through your generosity with your time, skills, and great faith by which you have helped us all navigate our sometimes bewildering journeys.

“In all of this, you’ve written several books, run several national prayer meetings, run shelters for vulnerable women, trained thousands of young people in different skills, crocheted a storm, and developed numerous gardens!

“I thank God daily for the gift of you to me. I love you always Dolly. Happy 35th Anniversary.”

Jibrin Defends Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Promises Thorough Review In National Assembly

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Kano State lawmaker, Abdulmumin Jibrin has assured that the National Assembly will soon approve President Bola Tinubu‘s tax reform bills, despite recent opposition from the Northern Elders Forum.

Jibrin, who chairs the House Committee on Housing and Habitat, disclosed this during an interview on Politics Today aired by Television Continental on Sunday.

The bills, which aim to introduce sweeping changes to Nigeria’s tax system, have sparked widespread debate, with critics arguing that the reforms could disproportionately impact certain regions.

Jibrin, however highlighted that the tax reforms, alongside Tinubu’s broader economic policies, are designed to secure a brighter future for Nigerians.

“I have no doubts about the approval and passage of the tax reform bills. We are committed to ensuring they go through,” Jibrin affirmed.

Naija News reports that the Tax Reform Bills have faced pushback from some state governors, particularly from the northern region, who argue that the proposed derivation-based VAT distribution model would disproportionately disadvantage their states.

Acknowledging resistance to the bills, particularly in northern Nigeria, Jibrin noted that efforts are ongoing to clarify misconceptions and demonstrate their necessity.

“For those of us who have studied the bills comprehensively, the benefits outweigh any perceived drawbacks.

“Misconceptions about these reforms largely stem from misinformation being spread,” he explained.

The lawmaker further emphasized that the reforms aim to boost revenue generation and ensure equitable distribution to strengthen Nigeria’s economic stability.

Jibrin stressed that contentious aspects of the bills should be debated and adjusted where necessary, rather than being outrightly dismissed.

“Since the bills are now before the National Assembly, it is our responsibility to scrutinise them thoroughly. Any contentious clauses can be reviewed and adjusted, as the bills are not immutable,” he added.

Reflecting on recent economic measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange market unification, Jibrin highlighted their transformative potential.

While acknowledging the immediate challenges posed by these reforms, he expressed optimism about their long-term benefits.

“President Tinubu is making sacrifices today for the sake of a better tomorrow for all Nigerians.

“His courageous reforms are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient economy,” he concluded.

Tinubu’s Economic Policies Have Brought Nigeria To Its Knees — Ologbondiyan

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Former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan, has condemned the President Bola Tinubu administration’s removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, describing the policies as detrimental to Nigeria’s economy.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, Ologbondiyan argued that a phased subsidy removal combined with effective palliatives, such as subsidised public transportation, would have been a more viable approach.

He criticised the administration for prioritising subsidised rice instead of addressing broader issues affecting Nigerians.

The former PDP spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction with the PDP’s lack of robust engagement with the government, saying more alternatives should be presented to address the country’s challenges.

His remarks followed a PDP governors‘ meeting over the weekend, during which they urged President Tinubu to reform the economy.

“Basically, I as Kola Ologbodiyan, subscribe to the ideas as laid down by the original founders of the party.

“For instance, let’s take the issue of the removal of subsidy, because what has brought Nigeria to its knees has been these two major decisions made by President Bola Tinubu, particularly on the subsidy and removal of the naira.

“But under the PDP leadership in the time past- I am aware that what we had was a phased subsidy removal, which also came with palliatives. The APC has said Nigerians should go and buy rice at ₦40,000 per bag. But the needs of Nigerians go beyond rice. So, I believe the policies could also be better if we have a public transport system where you and I won’t have to drive our vehicles at a subsidised rate.

“But the unfortunate thing as we are witnessing today is that we are paying lip service, even as PDP to engaging the sitting government on its reforms, to put forward alternatives,” Ologbondiyan said.

Since the removal of the petrol subsidy, the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) has surged from an average of ₦189 per litre in May 2023, when President Tinubu assumed office, to over ₦1,000 per litre in recent months.

Council Chairmen Are More Corrupt Than Governors – Ngige

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Former Governor of Anambra State, Chris Ngige, has said the Supreme Court made an error in its judgment on financial autonomy for local governments.

Ngige accused local council chairmen of being too corrupt than governors. He stated that most council chairmen crave to acquire choice estates in Abuja, Lagos and other Western nations.

The Labour and Employment Minister under former President Muhammadu Buhari argued that the Supreme Court judgment was in neglect of Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Ngige stated this at the weekend in Enugu on the topic ‘Local Government Administration and Primary Healthcare’, during the 29th annual general meeting (AGM) and scientific conference of the Association of Urological Surgeons, Nigeria (NAUS).

He noted that more than “15,000 primary healthcare centers were built across the country as constituency projects”, stressing the need for the State Economic Planning Boards to ensure that the abandoned healthcare centers were revamped as quickly as possible.

He noted that the “local government system remained pivotal to basic healthcare system, which former Minister of Health, Prof. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, transformed into primary healthcare system”.

Senator Ngige further explained council chairmen’s desire for luxury affects building public health centers and schools in their areas and owing teachers several months of salary arrears and allowances.

“The same Supreme Court, in 2006, made a pronouncement in which it warned the Federal Government against dictating to the states how to spend local government funds accruable to them.

“The previous Supreme Court ruling when Justice Mohammed Uwais was the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) was pronounced in a case filed by three state governments – Lagos, Abia, and Delta – through their attorneys general, challenging then President Olusegun Obasanjo’s Local Government Account Monitoring Committee Act 2005,” the Nation quoted him.

He emphasized the need to implement statutory first-line deductions for the payment of salaries and wages of council workers, pensions and gratuities, traditional rulers’ entitlements and customary courts’ allowances before paying federal allocation directly to local government chairmen.

He added that the local government system would start working when governors obeyed the law, and the Houses of Assembly became aware of their responsibilities, including calling erring governors to order.

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Aminu Tambuwal Celebrates Atiku At 78

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The former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described Atiku Abubakar as a man dedicated to fostering national unity.

The Senator of Sokoto South District said this while celebrating Atiku as he marked his 78 years birthday on Monday (today).

Tambuwal stated that the former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) through his vision and commitment to democratic values has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape.

His congratulatory message read: “On behalf of myself and my family, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to His Excellency, GCON (Wazirin Adamawa), former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the occasion of his 78th birthday.

“Your Excellency, as you celebrate this significant milestone, it is an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable contributions you have made to the growth and development of our great nation. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, resilience, and selfless service to the people of Nigeria. Through your vision, statesmanship, and unwavering commitment to democratic values, you have left an indelible mark on our political landscape.

“Your dedication to fostering national unity, advancing economic reform, and improving governance continues to inspire many, and your legacy of service is one that will endure generations to come.

“As you mark this special day, I join your well-wishers across the country in celebrating not only your longevity but also the remarkable impact you have had on the advancement of our nation. May this new year bring you continued good health, happiness, and success in all your endeavours.

“Once again, Your Excellency, happy 78th birthday. Nigeria is deeply grateful for your outstanding contributions to our collective progress.”

APC Denies Rift Between Obasa, Seyi Tinubu Over Governorship Ambition

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The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has distanced itself from speculations and endorsements related to the 2027 governorship election, stating that such discussions are premature and not on its agenda.

There had been speculations that Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu and the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, have governorship ambitions.

In an interview with Daily Trust, the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, attributed the unfolding drama to opposition parties attempting to create unnecessary controversy.

Oladejo said, “The party has not spoken about the 2027 election. This is the time for impactful governance, not needless politicking to heat the polity.”

He added that there is no clash between Seyi Tinubu, Obasa, or any other potential aspirants within the party.

“I cannot recall any part of the speaker’s speech that drew a battle line with Seyi Tinubu or anyone else. This is simply the opposition trying to play up the situation to create unnecessary sentiment,” he said.

Oladejo also emphasised that the party focuses on its forthcoming congress and local government elections in 2025, urging members to prioritise unity and progress.

But reacting, the Chairman of the PDP in Lagos, Philip Aivoji, denied the party’s involvement in the alleged endorsements.

“Somebody has answered from APC that Lagos governorship is not a child’s play. What do you want me to say about it again? It’s not my party. People can insinuate anything,” Aivoji said.

When asked about Oladejo’s allegation against opposition parties, he said, “Well, I am not the one behind it. Anyone that is behind such evil against Lagos State, that person is on his own.”

FACT-CHECK: How Senators Misinterpreted Constitution To Endorse CCT Chair’s Removal

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The Senate recently passed a resolution after purportedly relying on Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution to authorize President Bola Tinubu to dismiss the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Mr Danladi Umar.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Senator Bamidele Opeyemi (APC-Ekiti).

“The Senate is aware of the overwhelming allegations against the Chairman. Mr President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has forwarded Mr Abdullahi Usman Bello’s name to the Senate for confirmation as the new chairman of the tribunal. The Senate plenary on Thursday, July 4, 2024, confirmed Bello’s appointment, thus necessitating the erstwhile chairman to vacate the office for the new Chairman to assume duties officially,” Senator Bamidele said.

The Chief Whip of the Senate, Mohammed Tahir Monguno, explained that the resolution was backed by 72 senators who registered their support at plenary and ten others engaged in committee meetings, making 82 senators.

However, a fact-check conducted by PR Nigeria found some lapses in the processes followed by the Senate to clear the road for the removal of the CCT boss.

The medium reviewed Section 157(1) of the 1999 Constitution to assess the constitutional basis cited by the Senate. This section pertains specifically to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and not the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), which are distinct entities.

Section 157(1) states: “Subject to the provisions of subsection (3) of this section, a person holding any of the offices to which this section applies may only be removed from that office by the President acting on an address supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate…”

Subsection (2) further clarifies that this applies to specific positions, including those in the “Code of Conduct Bureau, Federal Civil Service Commission, Independent National Electoral Commission, and other executive bodies,” explicitly omitting the CCT, which operates within the judicial branch of government.

The Fact-Check revealed that instead of Section 157, the removal of the chairman or members of the CCT is governed by Paragraph 17(3) of the 5th Schedule to the 1999 Constitution as amended. This provision states: “A person holding the office of Chairman or member of the Code of Conduct Tribunal shall not be removed from his office or appointment by the President except upon an address supported by a two-thirds majority of each House of the National Assembly praying that he be so removed…. for contravention of this Code.”

Thus, the President can only remove such officials based on an address supported by a two-thirds majority from both Houses of the National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives).

Another error on new appointment

The Fact-Check also showed that the senators equally misrepresented Mr Abdullahi Usman Bello’s appointment. Mr. Bello was appointed as Chairman of the CCB based on his qualifications as a forensic accountant and was cleared for that role by the Senate.

The appointment of the CCT Chairman is detailed in Paragraph 15 of the 5th Schedule to the Constitution: “The Chairman shall be a person who has held or is qualified to hold office as a Judge of a superior court of record in Nigeria… The President shall appoint the Chairman and members of the Code of Conduct Tribunal on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).” Therefore, this cannot apply to Bello, who lacks the requisite judicial qualifications.

The Senators, therefore, erred in their assertion that their actions would facilitate Mr Abdullahi Usman Bello’s appointment as the new Chairman of the CCT. They overlooked that Bello currently serves as Chairman of the CCB, as President Tinubu recommended and by which the Senate themselves cleared him for that purpose.

Speaking to PRNigeria, a legal practitioner Yunus AbdulSalam, SAN, said: “The fact that the import of Section 157(2) of the Constitution eluded our lawmakers in the Senate is alarming and reflects poorly on our constitutional democracy. It sadly highlights a troubling lack of diligence and meticulous scrutiny in their legislative processes.”

[DailyTrust]

Damagum: Continuous postponement of NEC meeting unsettles PDP stakeholders

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There is currently no end in sight to the leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The move to remove the acting National Chairman of the party, Umar Damagum has continued to suffer setbacks following the continuous postponements of the National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting.

DAILY POST reports that for the umpteenth time, the main opposition party on Friday postponed its proposed NEC meeting meant to discuss some issues bedeviling the party and present a substantive National Chairman that would take over from Damagum and complete the tenure of the suspended Iyorchia Ayu.

Recall that at the 98th NEC meeting on April 18, the NEC fixed August 15 to resolve all lingering issues, but unfortunately, it was postponed and rescheduled for October 24.

As the plot to oust Damagum thickened, the meeting was further shifted from October 24 to November 28.

According to the party, the move was to ensure that it goes into the recently concluded Ondo gubernatorial elections with the unity and strength demanded to unseat the All Progressive Congress, APC, government in the state.

However, the hope to end the crisis rocking the party was again dashed on Friday when the PDP National Secretary, Sen Samuel Anyanwu announced the indefinite postponement of the much anticipated NEC meeting.

According to the party, the decision was taken to enable party leadership to attend the funeral of the late First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, wife of Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno. The funeral is scheduled for November 27th-29th, 2024.

The development did not go well with some party members, who are alleging that the Damagum-led NWC was deliberately postponing the meeting to keep him on the seat until the party’s national convention scheduled for next year.

DAILY POST gathered that at least four out of the 13 Governors elected under the platform of the PDP are strongly behind Damagum, who is also a loyalist of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike.

About six others from the camp of the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar have also vowed to kick the acting chairman out of the office before March 2025.

NEC postponement disrespect for the constitutional order of the party – North Central

Some party stakeholders from the North Central geo-political zone said the continuous postponement of the NEC by the Damagum’s NWC was against the party’s constitution.

A NEC member from the region and former National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, who addressed North Central youths in Abuja, said the development was an “aberration that shows a huge disrespect for the constitutional order of the party.”

According to him, “it is trite wisdom that as long as Damagum is being encouraged to continue to sit on the position of North Central, the concept of fixing the PDP will be mere lip service. “

He stated that respecting the party’s constitution by allowing a member from the North Central to complete Ayu’s tenure was the “only way to address the challenges facing the PDP and also fixing Nigeria.

“Anything outside of this demand will end up an exercise in futility,” he warned.

They want to officially hand PDP to APC – Rep Ugochinyere

A member of the House of Representatives, Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo) while reacting to the indefinite postponement, accused the NWC of making moves to collapse the main opposition party into the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

In a post on his official X handle, the lawmaker alleged that Damagum, and the National Secretary secretly met with the ruling party recently.

The lawmaker said the alleged meeting signals an irredeemable doom in the party, calling for the immediate removal of those involved in anti-party activities.

He wrote, “When the national chairman and secretary of a political party meet secretly with the ruling govt, you will know that irredeemable doom awaits that political party if they don’t rise and chase these political outlaws away.

“Now they want to officially handover the PDP to the APC without any shame just for a pot of porridge.

“The end story of ANPP, AD will be better than PDP if we don’t stop these shameless political traitors”.

When the PDP governors are ready to remove Damagum, they know what to do – PDP chieftain, Okai

Meanwhile, a chieftain of the party, Austin Okai told DAILY POST on Saturday that the leadership crisis in the party continued lingering due to the 2027 ambition of some of the PDP governors.

The Kogi-born political activist accused the governors of playing double standards, stressing that they are both fighting for their selfish interests.

According to him, “both the acting National Chairman and the National Secretary have to go; they are not doing anything. We also don’t have a national legal adviser at the moment. None of them are currently functioning.

“Some of us from the North Central have fought for Damagum’s removal to allow a member from the region to take over but we were not supported by the leaders. I am one of the North Central stakeholders and nobody is calling us for any meeting.

“The governor of Plateau State and the former governors are supposed to hold meetings but they are not doing anything. When Bala Mohammed was pushing for Damagum’s removal, some of the leaders were silent.

“They are fighting for 2027. Some of the governors are either eyeing the presidency or vice presidency. They forget that they need to first put the interest of the party at heart.

“So if the governors are really serious, they know what to do. They are obviously not serious yet.”

Okai, however, stated that “what some of the governors are doing is to ensure that they bring in a neutral person to replace Damagum. Somebody who is not a loyalist of Atiku or Wike.”

He admitted that “there is a hand of APC in all these issues. Some of these governors are meeting with the president. The president knows that he is performing badly and if PDP is doing well, he will have a problem.

“They are destroying PDP, Labour Party and even the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP. Our party is currently losing relevance because the public sees Damagum as a part of the APC.

“Damagum must go but the governors should do the needful, they should stop the politics for 2027 and fix the party first”.

However, the PDP governors rose from their meeting on Saturday with a “strong advice” for the Umar Damagum-led NWC to call for the NEC meeting of the party latest by February.

A communique read to journalists by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who is also the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, said, “The Forum is strongly advising the NWC to call NEC latest by the first week of February 2025 to allow for elaborate consultations with critical stakeholders of the Party.

“The period between November and February is to address the existential problems confronting the Party, with a deliberate timeline of activities within the period under review to address issues of leadership and litigations confronting the party.”

[DailyPost]

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FEATURES

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has disclosed that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.46%.

Media

The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has confidently asserted that he will conclude his term as a free individual, without fear of being targeted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or any other entity.

Nigerian Afrobeats singer, Tiwa Savage, has asserted that hardship in the country is responsible for the huge amount of entertainers being churning out.

Former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has expressed appreciation to his wife, Dolapo, as they celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary.

Kano State lawmaker, Abdulmumin Jibrin has assured that the National Assembly will soon approve President Bola Tinubu‘s tax reform bills, despite recent opposition from the Northern Elders Forum.

Former spokesperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan, has condemned the President Bola Tinubu administration’s removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, describing the policies as detrimental to Nigeria’s economy.

Former Governor of Anambra State, Chris Ngige, has said the Supreme Court made an error in its judgment on financial autonomy for local governments.

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The former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has described Atiku Abubakar as a man dedicated to fostering national unity.

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has distanced itself from speculations and endorsements related to the 2027 governorship election, stating that such discussions are premature and not on its agenda.

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