President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on a mission to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and boost regional cooperation.
He was warmly welcomed upon arrival by Tanzania’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, alongside the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian High Commission to Tanzania, Ambassador Salisu Suleiman.
This visit marks a significant milestone in deepening the relationship between Nigeria and Tanzania, with a focus on expanding trade, investment, and economic collaboration.
At his hotel, President Tinubu met with Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), further underscoring the importance of the trip in advancing Africa’s economic agenda.
During his stay, President Tinubu is expected to engage in high-level discussions with key African leaders and economic stakeholders, aiming to strengthen partnerships and promote sustainable development across the continent.
The visit reflects Nigeria’s commitment to playing an active role in addressing Africa’s challenges and fostering collaborative solutions for growth and regional integration.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has urged citizens to exercise patience as the country navigates a challenging economic landscape.
He made this appeal during his Independence Day address, . He defended his contentious economic reforms, asserting that they are essential and beginning to yield positive outcomes.
Tinubu also claimed that Nigeria is making progress in combating the violence that has plagued the northern regions, a statement that some may find hard to believe given the ongoing issues.
Meanwhile, demonstrations in the capital, Abuja, and in Lagos marked the 64th anniversary of independence from Britain, with protesters expressing their dissatisfaction with the government’s economic management.
President Tinubu began his speech on Tuesday by telling Nigerians: “I am deeply aware of the struggles many of you face in these challenging times… I plead for your patience as the reforms we are implementing show positive signs, and we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.
Following the speech, Lagos resident Michael Olaleye told the Reuters news agency: “Personally, me I am doubting if it is something that is going to work out because it has not shown really… majority of what the president is talking about has not shown.”
But another city dweller, Victory Azimih, urged Nigerians to be “optimistic” and acknowledge that the government cannot “fix everything”.
Tinubu also addressed security in his speech, saying: “I am happy to announce to you, my compatriots, that our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry.”
He added that the government has eliminated commanders from Boko Haram – a leading Islamist militant group in Nigeria – “faster than ever”.
The military in Nigeria has escalated its efforts against armed groups, increasing both aerial bombardments and ground operations. According to a military spokesperson, nearly 2,000 alleged terrorists were “neutralized” in the third quarter of the year.
However, there have been tragic incidents amid these operations.
Just last week, a military airstrike intended for armed groups in Kaduna state resulted in 24 casualties, hitting a mosque and residential areas, according to local reports.
Additionally, there are ongoing concerns about civilian safety, as attacks by these armed groups continue to be reported.
Recently, media outlets indicated that armed attackers killed two individuals and abducted 44 more in separate incidents in Zamfara andKaduna states.
This surge in violence has prompted protests, with demonstrators expressing their frustrations over the “destruction, hunger, insecurity, and the difficulties” attributed to the current government’s actions.
Similar protests occurred in August, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 people and numerous arrests on various charges.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu plans to implement a three-month restriction on ministers and other government officials from utilizing publicly funded foreign travel.
According to Mr. Tinubu’s chief of staff, the decision stems from the president’s concerns regarding the escalating expenses associated with official travel by public officials. The ban is scheduled to commence on April 1.
Critics have targeted President Tinubu and his administration, particularly for their frequent overseas trips. The controversy intensified following the government’s sponsorship of over 400 individuals to attend the COP28 climate conference in Dubai last November.
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has embarked on more than 15 foreign trips. Reports suggest that he has expended at least 3.4 billion naira ($2.2 million; £1.8 million) on both domestic and foreign travel within the first six months of his presidency.
This expenditure surpasses the budgeted amount for 2023 by 36%, as reported by the Nigerian newspaper Punch in January, citing GovSpend, a civic tech platform that monitors government spending.
Femi Gbajabiamila, the chief of staff to Mr. Tinubu, stated that the travel ban aims to reduce costs amidst Nigeria’s current economic challenges and the imperative for responsible fiscal management. Nigeria is currently facing one of its most severe cost-of-living crises in decades, resulting in widespread hardship and discontent.
The three-month suspension of official travel by government officials represents Mr. Tinubu’s latest effort to address public criticism. In January, the Nigerian president announced a 60% reduction in the size of official travel delegations, including cuts to his own entourage.
When the ban takes effect in April, government officials will only be permitted to undertake foreign trips deemed absolutely necessary, requiring President Tinubu’s approval at least two weeks prior to travel. Mr. Gbajabiamila emphasized that the travel halt will enable government officials to concentrate on their respective mandates for effective service delivery.
Despite tightening restrictions on travel by government officials, Mr. Tinubu has not indicated whether he will reduce his own trips.
In the past, the president and his representatives have justified his trips as essential for tackling the economic challenges he is accused of neglecting.
Nigeria’s decision to rename Minna International Airport after President Bola Tinubu has sparked controversy, particularly among those who view it as a self-serving endeavor.
The government of Niger state defended the move, citing Tinubu’s contributions to regional development.
However, many Nigerians have questioned the decision, labeling it as a display of vanity.
President Tinubu himself attended the inauguration of the refurbished airport in Minna.
Previously known as Abubakar Imam International Airport, it was named after a renowned Nigerian writer and journalist who played a significant role in establishing the region’s first Hausa language newspaper.
This renaming comes amid broader plans by aviation authorities to rename a total of 15 airports after prominent Nigerian figures, including former presidents.
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has stirred controversy by appointing his son-in-law, Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo, as the head of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), raising concerns about nepotism.
Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo is married to Mr. Tinubu’s eldest daughter, Folashade, marking the first instance of President Tinubu appointing a relative to a position within the federal government.
The presidency, in announcing Mr. Ojo’s appointment, highlighted his “over a decade of work experience in the housing and hospitality industries,” along with his previous tenure as a member of the House of Representatives.
However, the move has ignited a strong backlash on social media, with many questioning the decision and suggesting that there were more qualified candidates for the role.
“Blatant nepotism is a leadership weakness. It’s unfortunate Nigerian leaders don’t see it as a form of ethical failure,” remarked one individual on X platform.
Nevertheless, some have defended Mr. Ojo’s appointment, arguing that his familial ties to the president should not disqualify him from government positions.
The appointment of Mr. Ojo is part of President Tinubu’s broader efforts to revamp the management of the housing ministry, with the FHA, falling under its purview, tasked with facilitating the delivery of affordable housing across Nigeria.
At the time of reporting, the government had not issued a response to the criticisms surrounding Mr. Ojo’s appointment.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, is convening with state governors to address the escalating cost of living crisis gripping the nation.
The Sultan of Sokoto, one of Nigeria’s foremost traditional rulers, emphasized on Wednesday that the country stood at a critical juncture, citing the growing hardships faced by many Nigerians in affording essential food items.
He urged President Tinubu to tackle the economic challenges arising from his decision to slash fuel subsidies.
Nigeria, known as Africa’s largest oil producer, had long subsidized petrol costs. However, following Tinubu’s election last year, he deemed this policy unsustainable.
The resulting increase in transportation expenses has further burdened Nigerians, leading to recent protests against skyrocketing food prices and stagnant wages.
Labor unions have threatened to embark on strike action in the coming weeks.
President Bola Tinubu has reversed the contentious decision to deduct 40% of Internally Generated Revenues from federal universities nationwide.
Speaking at the 75th Founder’s Day ceremony of the University of Ibadan, the President, represented by the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, deemed the policy implementation “ill-timed” and emphasized that it was inappropriate given the current challenges faced by universities.
Tinubu, in his capacity as the Visitor to the university, expressed his dedication to reforming the nation’s education sector, recognizing its pivotal role in national development.
He said, “The 40 per cent IGR automatic deduction policy stands cancelled. This is not the best time for such a policy since our universities are struggling.”
As per a report by the media the Federal Government, through a letter dated October 17, 2023, titled ‘Implementation of 40% automatic deduction from internally generated revenue of partially funded federal government institutions,’ has announced the commencement of the 40% automatic deduction from internally generated revenue (IGR) of partially funded federal government institutions, effective from November 2023.
The letter, signed by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mrs Oluwatoyin Madein, and Felix Ore-ofe Ogundairo, Director of Revenue and Investment at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, cited the Finance Circular with reference number FMFBNP/OTHERS/IGR/CRF/12/2021 dated December 20, 2021, as the basis for the auto-deduction policy of gross IGR.
In response, the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities has written a protest letter to the Federal Government, urging a reconsideration of the plan to deduct 40% of the Internally Generated Revenues of federal universities.
Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, the Secretary-General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, conveyed this stance in a phone interview, emphasizing that the government’s demand for 40% of universities’ IGR was unjustified, especially considering the lack of autonomy granted to the universities.
Ochefu warned that if the Federal Government proceeds with the policy, parents would bear the consequences, noting that the Finance Act 2020 stipulates the remittance of 40% to the FG only in the presence of a surplus, which is not the case for universities reliant on user charges rather than profits or revenues.
He said, “If you look at the Act, it didn’t say 40% IGR, but a surplus. So, who determines what is surplus? The Finance Act of 2020 is explanatory, and it is the institution that is supposed to decide and send you the surplus if there is any.”
“But FG says it now wants to deduct it from the source. We have protested and written to the Ministry of Education. If they insist, it means they want to ground the universities to a halt. Or we will be forced to add the 40 per cent to what we are charging the end users and these end users are complaining already. We told the Ministry of Education to write the Ministry of Finance to halt the development. The letter was written on Thursday.”
Concurrently, the Academic Staff Union of Universities protested the mandate for public tertiary institutions to submit forty percent of their IGR to FG.
In a statement released after its National Executive Meeting, ASUU—whose president, Emmanuel Osodeke, signed it—claimed that the decision would make the already publicly funded universities even poorer.
In a significant legal development, a Nigerian court ruling on Thursday upheld President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s election victory, bringing an end to a highly contested and protracted election trial that had the potential to push Africa’s largest democracy to the brink of a constitutional crisis.
Tinubu had been declared the winner of the February election by the country’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), despite concerns raised by international observers about irregularities in the electoral process.
Opposition candidates, led by Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who finished as the runner-up in the election, contested the results on the grounds of electoral malpractice and ineligibility. Their case had been dismissed by the Presidential Elections Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) in September, prompting Abubakar’s legal team to swiftly file an appeal at Nigeria’s highest court, the final recourse for electoral disputes.
In the Thursday ruling, the judges of the Supreme Court rejected this appeal and upheld the lower court’s decision. Chief Justice John Okoro, presiding over the case, cited the inability to accept new evidence that Abubakar’s legal team had recently acquired through the deposition of a Chicago State University official in a U.S. court.
The evidence, according to analysts, raised questions about Tinubu’s educational qualifications, and Abubakar’s legal team aimed to use it as proof that the president had presented a forged certificate to INEC, which would constitute a crime under Nigerian law if proven.
However, experts noted that this move came too late in the legal proceedings, making it an ineffective strategy.
“You can’t bring fresh evidence in a case that has already been decided at first instance,” Martin Obono, a lawyer and political commentator told Al Jazeera, referring to the initial decision of the lower election tribunal. The opposition, Obono added, was also unable to strongly prove that Tinubu had lost the elections.
“You have to prove that you won and either your votes did not count, or there was overvoting somewhere,” Obono said. “That is the only way that elections have been upturned in Nigeria, not through these technical issues.”
The decision made on Thursday was expected. In Nigeria’s six-decade history, the Supreme Court has never reversed the outcome of a presidential election. But thousands of Nigerians were following the President Tinubu missing credentials case with great interest, drawn in by the drama it created, and it seemed almost like a first.
Mystery certificate
President Tinubu’s Controversial Political Career and the Aftermath of the Supreme Court Ruling
President Tinubu’s political journey has long been shadowed by controversy, particularly regarding inconsistencies in his credentials. These discrepancies first surfaced after he assumed the role of governor in Lagos in 1999. In a 2002 Supreme Court hearing, his legal team attributed these inconsistencies to a clerical error and invoked his immunity as governor, shielding him from prosecution.
Following the conclusion of his governorship in 2007, the noise surrounding these allegations subsided as his political influence continued to grow. However, these claims resurfaced last year when he declared his intention to run for the presidency.
Accusations have ranged from adopting another person’s identity to numerous allegations of corruption during and after his two-term governorship. Questions about the true source of his wealth, with some linking it to narcotics, have also been raised.
His opponents had previously argued that Tinubu was ineligible to run in the February election due to allegations of drug trafficking while residing in Chicago. While U.S. government statements confirmed that Tinubu forfeited $460,000 in 1993 in connection with a drug trafficking syndicate, he was not formally indicted or convicted.
Although a university degree is not a requirement to run for president in Nigeria (the minimum educational qualification being a school leaving certificate or its equivalent), President Tinubu did not submit one.
The Supreme Court’s ruling is final under Nigerian law and cannot be overturned. President Tinubu celebrated the decision as a victory, stating that it strengthens his resolve to do more. Nevertheless, opposition parties expressed their dissatisfaction, with supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) candidate who came third in the February election, accusing the top court of not giving due consideration before announcing its decision.
The PDP, led by Abubakar, expressed disappointment and grave concern with the Supreme Court’s reasoning. While there was initial speculation about possible further actions, the understanding is that the Supreme Court’s judgment is binding and cannot be appealed.
Both Abubakar and Obi are likely to challenge President Tinubu in the next elections scheduled for 2027.
With the election dispute resolved, President Tinubu now faces the pressing challenge of a deteriorating economic outlook. Since assuming office in May, the Nigerian naira has reached historic lows, despite economic reforms announced on his first day as president. Removal of fuel subsidies led to soaring fuel prices, even though Nigeria is a significant oil producer. Food prices have also surged, reaching levels not seen since 2007, according to the World Bank.
President Bola Tinubu has entreated Nigerians to remain optimistic about turning the fortunes of the country around as it commemorates its 63rd Independence Anniversary today, October 1, 2023.
In a Twitter post, he noted that providing a “better Nigeria” hinges on three virtues, namely “courage, compassion and commitment.”\
According to him, the journey ahead will not be navigated by fear or hatred.
“We can only achieve our better Nigeria through courage, compassion and commitment as one indivisible unit,” he added.
He described Nigeria as “a broad and dynamic blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions and cultures.”
However, its bond is “intangible yet strong, invisible yet universal.”
“We are joined by a common thirst for peace and progress, by the common dream of prosperity and harmony and by the unifying ideals of tolerance and justice,” he added.
Fellow Nigerians,
Nigeria is remarkable in its formation and essential character. We are a broad and dynamic blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions and cultures. Yet, our bonds are intangible yet strong, invisible yet universal. We are joined by a common thirst for peace… pic.twitter.com/M2WT3gfWjK
To provide a better tomorrow for all Nigerians, President Tinubu promised to “remain committed and serve faithfully.”
He also invited all to join this enterprise “to remake our beloved nation into its better self.”
“We can do it, We must do it. We shall do it.!!! I wish you all a happy 63rd Independence Anniversary,” he concluded.
For decades, Nigerians have traditionally taken to the streets on October 1, with loud music and the national flag in hand, to proudly celebrate their independence from the United Kingdom. However, on the 63rd anniversary of this historic event, the usual jubilant atmosphere is conspicuously absent from the country’s streets.
In the capital city of Abuja, where grand banquets and concerts, often supported by the government, were once the norm for Independence Day celebrations, the streets remain unusually quiet.
The only notable activity is the flow of traffic, as worshippers head to Sunday masses. Over the loudspeakers, some religious leaders can be heard appealing for divine intervention to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges.
Africa’s largest economy has been grappling with severe economic challenges. Youth unemployment, inflation, and debt have reached unprecedented levels and continue to rise. Over 60 percent of the population resides in what the United Nations classifies as “multidimensional poverty.”
Nigeria @ 63 Independence Anniversary 🇳🇬🇳🇬 Nigeria 🇳🇬 is the Giant of Africa yet people are d*ing of Hunger !! What exactly are we celebrating?
The state of electricity supply remains gloomy, with the national grid experiencing multiple failures throughout the year, and consistent, uninterrupted power supply remains an elusive dream.
After thinking for six hours, they said Peter Obi’s Labour Party’s request was not valid and rejected all of his arguments, including the accusation of deceit.
We will know soon what they decide about the complaint made by Atiku Abubakar from the Peoples Democratic Party.
Although there were issues with the election, Mr. Tinubu was officially sworn in as an officeholder on May 29th.
The election was the most strongly fought since the military rule ended in 1999, with three very capable candidates competing for the first time. Mr Tinubu received the highest amount of votes with 37%, while Mr Abubakar got 29% and Mr Obi got 25%.
Before Wednesday’s decision, there was a lot of tension in the country. The capital, Abuja, saw more security measures put in place.
Even though authorities told people not to protest, different political groups came together outside the courthouse and started singing and dancing.
The decision made on the same day the President served 100 days in office will be a big win for President Tinubu. He will now closely watch the Supreme Court, as his opponents may challenge this ruling.
But the judges at the Appeal Court all agreed and their decision will make him feel more assured. This was already shown because he was not in the country when Wednesday’s decision was made. He was in India for the G20 summit.
Lead justice Haruna Tsammani, who made the final decision, said “the people who brought the case couldn’t prove that there was corruption and too many votes. ”
Justice Tsammani also mentioned that:
The people who made the petition did not say exactly which polling stations they believe had cheating. The people who started the petition did not give enough evidence to support their claim that votes were being unfairly stopped from being counted in the areas where they have the most support. The electoral commission didn’t have to send results electronically. Not uploading pictures of the polling unit results right away did not make the election not count.
Minister of Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has called back all of Nigeria’s ambassadors, both professional and non-career.
In a statement released on Saturday by his SA for Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, the minister officially announced the recall of all ambassadors.
Sarafa Ishola, the nation’s representative to the United Kingdom, had been recalled, according to Vanguard.
The resignation of Ambassador Ishola as the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Representative to the United Kingdom was announced in a recall letter from Ambassador Tuggar.
It urged Ishola “to commence the process of winding down your affairs, and take formal leave of your host government within 60 days and to return to Nigeria by 31 October 2023 at the latest.”
Total recall
The statement confirming the recall of all ambassadors:
“Sequel to the inquiries on the letter recalling the Nigerian ambassador to the UK, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has clarified that all career ambassadors and non-career ambassadors have been recalled on the instructions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Ambassadors as representatives of the country serve at the behest of the President and it’s his prerogative to send or recall them from any country.”
In this interview, Mr. Zaccheus Adedeji, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Revenue, discusses the efforts of the Tinubu Administration to enhance Nigeria’s revenue, ensure sustainable financing, and implement ongoing reforms to positively transform the nation’s economic prospects.
The last three months have been challenging for Nigerians due to the economic reforms initiated by President Tinubu. Is the President on track to fulfill his election promises?
For this government, our focus extends beyond the present moment or the short-term achievements of the President’s tenure. We are laying the groundwork for a prosperous future. While the foundation of a building may not always appear glamorous, it is undeniably the most critical part. As the house takes shape, its beauty becomes evident, and it provides shelter from external challenges.
In this short period, we have accomplished several significant milestones, such as addressing pressing tax issues, eliminating the wasteful subsidy on petrol to create fiscal headroom, and implementing forex reforms to rectify market distortions. These actions have placed us on the right path, moving in the right direction.
How is this administration planning to alleviate the burden on Nigerians facing the high cost of living following the removal of fuel subsidies?
We recognize the challenges faced by , particularly in the wake of economic reforms. President Tinubu signed executive orders on July 6 that reversed tax increases on manufacturers, suspended excise taxes on Single Use Plastics that would have affected SMEs, and deferred the commencement of various changes introduced through the Fiscal Measures and Finance Act 2023. These measures provide individuals and businesses with reasonable time to adapt without major disruptions to their livelihoods.
The removal of wasteful subsidies on petrol and forex has halted the financial drain on our treasury and is setting the stage for sustainable financing. Although some of these measures have led to short-term difficulties, we are confident that Nigerians will soon reap the benefits.
Are there plans to reduce the nation’s dependency on a single revenue-generating sector?
We firmly believe that Nigeria’s potential is vast, provided we enhance our policy environment and improve the efficiency of both the private and public sectors. President Tinubu has approved the establishment of a Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, composed of distinguished Nigerians. This committee will advise the government on necessary reforms and support their implementation.
Ultimately, the committee’s work and other policy actions will result in diversifying the economy, revenue sources, and foreign exchange earnings, leading to a more productive economy.
What strategies are in place to attract foreign direct investment and create a conducive environment for potential investors?
President Tinubu’s philosophy is to tax returns on investment rather than investment itself, tax consumption instead of production, and facilitate prosperity while ensuring fair and progressive taxation. This administration’s market-friendly approach has already stimulated excitement in the capital market, with over 20% growth, the best performance in 15 years.
We are also working on reforms to create more job opportunities and entrepreneurship in the digital economy, particularly for our youth. Recognizing the volatility of the oil and gas sector and its impact on the economy, we are committed to diversifying into sectors like agriculture, solid minerals, and maritime.
How can the funds saved from subsidy removal contribute to economic stability?
The removal of subsidies on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and forex is a prudent decision that will not only curtail wasteful spending but also promote resource efficiency and eliminate economic distortions. This, in turn, reduces the need for excessive borrowing by the government at all levels to fund public spending.
The savings can be redirected towards building critical infrastructure, social services in education and healthcare, and reducing multidimensional poverty. Infrastructure projects like roads, power, rail, broadband, and pipelines are essential for a productive economy and can only be provided by the government. By investing in these areas, we create an environment that attracts investors and fosters economic growth.
Why should Nigerians trust President Tinubu and his team to deliver on the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’?
President Tinubu’s agenda centers on inclusive and sustainable economic prosperity. Appointments in his administration are based on competence, with technocrats managing various economic aspects. Even the appointed politicians have proven records of performance.
We are making substantial progress, moving in the right direction, and I am confident that Nigerians will begin to experience the benefits of this administration’s policies in the near future. The future holds great promise.
As part of an initiative to curtail government expenditure, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has taken steps to streamline the Nigerian delegation for the forthcoming UN General Assembly.
President Tinubu issued a directive on Monday to the US mission in Nigeria, requesting that visas be granted exclusively to Nigerian government officials who have direct involvement in the upcoming UN event, set to be held in New York next month.
Furthermore, Mr. Tinubu specified that Nigeria’s mission in New York should only accredit government officials who hold clearly defined roles at the General Assembly.
In addition to this, the president mandated that officials traveling to the United States limit the number of aides and support staff accompanying them to the UN event. He cautioned that individuals who fail to adhere to these guidelines will be excluded from the delegation.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, participated in the ECOWAS meeting held in Abuja, Nigeria, on Thursday, August 10, 2023.
During this meeting, West African leaders discussed their next steps in response to the defiance of Niger’s military junta, which failed to meet their deadline for reinstating the ousted president.
However, experts suggest that the regional bloc, ECOWAS, might be running out of viable options as support for a military intervention wanes. (AP Photo/Gbemiga Olamikan)
In light of a military junta’s refusal to step down after seizing power through an undemocratic abduction of Niger’s president, West African nations have placed their armed forces on standby, prepared for a potential military intervention.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a coalition of 15 nations, convened on Thursday and issued a statement that strongly denounced the unlawful detention of President Mohamed Bazoum of Niger.
While the final decision entails the readiness of troops that could potentially intervene in a matter of weeks, ECOWAS underscores its ongoing pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
President Alassane Ouattara of Ivory Coast confirmed his nation’s involvement in the operation, alongside Nigeria and Benin.
Ouattara informed reporters that the coup in Niger constitutes a “terrorist act” and highlighted that diplomatic negotiations with military leaders have so far yielded no progress.
“We cannot let this continue, we have to act,” Ouattara said. “We will not accept coup d’etats.”
Any military action could be dangerous for Bazoum. Military junta leader Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani has threatened to kill the abducted president if neighboring countries invade Niger.
Tchiani has refused diplomatic negotiations from the West, including officials from the State Department, and entrenched himself in power this week by appointing his own officials to lead the government.
The situation in Niger has quickly spiraled out of control since the coup in late July displaced Bazoum in the capital of Niamey. ECOWAS imposed a deadline on Sunday to release Bazoum, which the military junta ignored. Leaders instead closed all flights in and out of the country.
Tchiani has justified the overthrow by citing an economic crisis and soaring violence in the West African nation.
Some in Niger have supported the coup because of concerns about corruption during Bazoum’s administration, along with a compounding economic insecurity and violence crisis.
Two West African nations have also supported Niger’s military leaders, Burkina Faso and Mali. Their governments are military-led and suspended from ECOWAS membership. It’s unclear how both nations might respond to military intervention in Niger.
The African Union on Friday supported the ECOWAS activation of troops.
In a statement, African Union Commission Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed “deep concern about the deterioration of the conditions of detention of President Mohamed Bazoum.”
“The Chairman of the Commission calls on the whole of the international community to unite all its concrete efforts to save the life and the moral and physical integrity of President Mohamed Bazoum,” he said.
Bola Tinubu, the president of Nigeria, has replied to criticism on the choice to consider a potential military intervention in Niger following the coup last month.
He claimed that the Ecowas regional bloc made this decision, not Nigeria, along with the demand that the leaders of the military coup in Niger restore the expelled president.
It happens at a time when Mr. Tinubu, who is also the current chairman of Ecowas, is facing criticism for allegedly advocating military intervention in Niger.
The president “has deemed it necessary to state unequivocally that the mandate and ultimatum issued by Ecowas is that of Ecowas’ position,” according to a spokesperson for the Nigerian government.
The representative also claims that Ecowas is responsible for Niger’s financial sanctions in a statement.
Ecowas previously stated that it favours a diplomatic and political solution that restores Mohamed Bazoum to his position as the elected president of Niger. If the junta continues to be obstinate, it was stated that a military intervention would be the “last resort.”
Following the Ecowas deadline’s expiration on Sunday, the Ecowas heads of state will meet on Thursday in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, to discuss the best course of action for Niger.
Bola Tinubu, the president of Nigeria, is under intense domestic pressure because he threatened to use military force to put an end to the coup in neighbouring Niger.
Despite the Senate being under the authority of Mr. Tinubu’s party, local media reports that there was substantial opposition to military action at a session on Saturday.
However, there has also been widespread national opposition of the threat of war. This was especially true among MPs from states near the more than 1,500km (930 mile) long border with Niger.
The West African regional bloc Ecowas gave the junta until Sunday to relinquish power or face potential military action.
Since Mr. Tinubu currently serves as Ecowas’ chairman and Nigeria is its most powerful member, the choice was widely regarded as being his.
Despite the fact that the junta disregarded the ultimatum, Ecowas did not send troops right away in response. Many Nigerians, who seek a diplomatic solution to the problem, were relieved to hear this.
Given that Nigeria and other nations must obtain parliamentary approval before sending the military, some people dispute whether a seven-day timetable was reasonable.
Many people are also horrified that President Tinubu‘s instructions to cut off electricity to Niger resulted in blackouts in Niger’s capital city of Niamey and other areas.
Critics assert that this violates a deal that allowed Nigeria to construct a dam on the River Niger, while Mr. Tinubu’s supporters assert that the power outages are intended to put pressure on the junta to restore ousted President Mohamed Bazoum’s rule without resorting to force.
Strong linkages exist between Nigeria and Niger on the racial, economic, and cultural levels, and any military action against Niger would have an impact on northern Nigeria, which already faces significant security issues.
Mr. Tinubu should not “rush into an avoidable conflict with a neighbour at the behest of global politics,” according to a powerful group of Muslim clerics in northern Nigeria.
Mr. Bazoum was a crucial friend of the West and permitted the US and former colonial powers France to maintain military bases there to aid in the war against militant Islamists wreaking havoc throughout much of West Africa.
If Ecowas does deploy force, the military juntas in Mali and Burkina Faso have threatened to support the coup leaders in Niger, perhaps igniting a huge regional confrontation.
Currently, Mr. Tinubu is the centre of attention. He has been the most outspoken in denouncing military coups in West Africa and claimed last month that Ecowas cannot consist of “toothless bulldogs.”
“We must be adamantly pro-democracy. Without democracy, there can be no government, freedom, or rule of law. Soon after assuming control of the regional organisation, Mr. Tinubu remarked, “We won’t accept coup after coup in West Africa again.
According to the constitution of Nigeria, the National Assembly, which is made up of both the upper and lower chambers of parliament, must provide its consent before the president can send out troops.
Given the opposition Mr. Tinubu is up against, it is uncertain whether he will win their support.
Prof. Khalifa Dikwa, a professor at the University of Maiduguri and a prominent elder in northern Nigeria, declared, “Ecowas wentof, the Nigerian president also wentof.”
The Senate’s leader, Godswill Akpabio, challenged the Ecowas parliament to offer “solutions to resolve this logjam as soon as possible” in a cautious statement following Saturday’s closed-door meeting.
President Tinubu’s stern stance against coups may have its roots in his personal history. Early in the 1990s, he served as an MP for just over a year until elections were thrown out, parliament was dissolved, and Gen. Sani Abacha took over.
He became a part of the pro-democracy movement, which fought for the restoration of civilian authority, putting him in the sights of the military, which ultimately drove him into exile. After the passing of Gen. Abacha, one of Nigeria’s most ruthless and corrupt military leaders, he returned in 1998.
However, many Nigerians believe that President Tinubu did not consider the internal repercussions of deploying force, and that Ecowas was hasty in delivering an ultimatum to the junta.
“Up until the Berlin Conference [in 1884–1885], when foreign powers established Africa’s current borders, Niger was a continuation of the northern half of Nigeria. You anticipate that the North will start a war with itself?
President Tinubu, like his predecessor Muhammadu Buhari, and his national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, a former policeman, neither have military backgrounds.
Last week, Ecowas army chiefs released a statement of their own, stating that they saw military involvement as a “last resort” in most cases.
Critics accuse Mr. Tinubu of rushing through important choices in the past, citing the fact that he abruptly ended a decades-long gasoline subsidy in May during his first speech as president, causing pandemonium.
On Thursday, Ecowas leaders will meet in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, to choose their course of action.
It is difficult to imagine other West African nations joining any military involvement without Nigeria, even though some have pledged to do so. If the National Assembly does not support them, it is unlikely that they will.
Mr. Tinubu is both the president of Nigeria and the chairman of Ecowas. Acting in the regional interest and in defence of democracy is necessary for the one, but it could be highly expensive for the other party.
On Thursday, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urged Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu and allow him the opportunity to address the country’s challenges.
CAN also praised Tinubu for proactively taking measures to prevent the proposed strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress in response to the removal of fuel subsidies.
The organization advised the NLC and TUC that if any call to action is necessary, it should be for the prudent and accountable use of the funds that would have been allocated to subsidize fuel.
During a press conference in Abuja, the Chairman of Lagos State chapter of CAN and Methodist Bishop of Ikeja Diocese, Stephen Adegbite, raised these concerns.
He criticized the fuel subsidy as a misguided policy that benefits the wealthy and politically connected, while ordinary citizens suffer.
Adegbite commended Tinubu’s approach in inviting the leaders of NLC and TUC for private discussions, which led to a resolution and the end of the nationwide protest.
He praised the President’s willingness to listen and take action in the national interest.
Adegbite appealed to Nigerians to give President Tinubu an opportunity to address the country’s issues once and for all.
He said, “I have keenly followed the socio-economic developments in our country since May 29, 2023, when the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took the reigns of governance.
“The President had, on assuming office, made his now famous ‘fuel subsidy is gone’ pronouncement in his inaugural speech and since then, fuel prices have twice gone up in line with the dictates of market forces.
“The step he took was one majority of Nigerians had agreed needed to be taken. It was increasingly obvious that the subsidy regime was not benefiting the masses it was originally designed to benefit.”
He added, “The truth is that the fuel subsidy misadventure was profiting the rich, the politically connected, and even worse, our regional neighbours and smugglers who enjoyed opulent returns at the expense of the citizenry.
“Basically, the masses who were supposed to benefit from the subsidy were not the primary or secondary beneficiaries, but the saddest part is that the people have somehow been hoodwinked and deceived into believing that the fraud of subsidy was in their favour.
“It is against this background that I commend President Tinubu for inviting NLC and TUC leaders for follow-up discussions after organized labour went ahead with protest marches, despite his nationwide broadcast.”
Adegbite stated that Tinubu is a listening president who provided clarity to the leaders of the NLC and TUC, over matters that were unclear.
He mentioned, “I find it assuring that he used the opportunity to provide clarity on a number of things labour leaders felt were not clear enough.
“This, in my view, shows that we indeed have a listening President who is interested in getting things done in national interest.”
Adegbite acknowledged that labor raised the issue of refineries in its criticism of President Tinubu’s recent nationwide broadcast. He mentioned that there have been assurances that the Port Harcourt refineries will be operational by December 2023.
He added that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) should be aware that all four of the nation’s refineries are undergoing refurbishment under an arrangement made during the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari, each with its specific timeline.
Adegbite emphasized that there is a clear plan in place to ensure local refining of petroleum. He expressed his satisfaction with the decision of labor to suspend its protest marches.
“So my message to NLC and TUC is that if there is any need for a call to action, it should be for the judicious and accountable use of the funds that would otherwise have been used to subsidise fuel.”
“We can’t be complaining about a deficit of social infrastructure and amenities as well as low wages for civil servants, and at the same time be opposed to efforts to improve the quality and availability of same,” the state CAN chairman said.
In an effort to resolve the ongoing political impasse in Niger Republic, Nigerian President and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Bola Tinubu, has taken decisive action.
Following the resolution reached during the extraordinary summit of ECOWAS in Abuja, President Tinubu has dispatched a delegation to Niger with a mandate to promptly address the situation.
The delegation, led by former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd), left for Niamey on Thursday after receiving a briefing from President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
Alongside General Abubakar, the delegation includes the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji [Name].
The move is aimed at finding a swift and effective resolution to the current political challenges in Niger Republic, and it underscores the commitment of ECOWAS to supporting stability and peace in the region.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has urged his citizens to trust him on solving the perennial challenges in Nigeria
Mr. Tinubu announced in a televised speech to the country that he had directed the release of 200,000 tonnes of grain from strategic stocks.
Additionally, he pledged to raise the minimum wage, promote more well-paying jobs, and provide financial support for the manufacturing, farming, and small business sectors.
While acknowledging the challenges individuals faced, Mr. Tinubu justified the recent elimination of a fuel subsidy, claiming it had saved Nigeria about $1.3 billion (£1 billion).
Protests have been sparked by the elimination of the subsidy.
“I understand the hardship you face; I wish there were other ways, but there are none… Have faith in our ability to deliver. We will get out of this turbulence,” he assured citizens.
In order to counteract the rising expense of transportation, he proposed a $129 million fund to buy around 3,000 commercial buses that would be spread across the country.
He pleaded for tolerance as he carried out his economic strategies.
Taiwo Oyedele, who was recently appointed as the chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee byPresident Bola Tinubu, has resigned from his position as a fiscal policy partner and Africa tax leader at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC).
In a tweet on July 19, Oyedele announced his resignation from PwC, stating that he needs to focus on his new role assigned by President Tinubu.
President Tinubu approved the establishment of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in early July and appointed Oyedele to lead the committee.
This move reflects Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the country’s challenges and implementing transformational reforms in fiscal policy and taxation, as stated by the presidency.
The primary objective of the committee, as the presidency has said, was to enhance the collection of revenue, ensure transparency in reporting as well as the promotion of the effective utilisation of tax and more revenue of boost the morale of the citizens, enhance heavy tax structure and encourage compliance voluntarily.
Oyedele’s statement reads in part: “This is to enable me to focus fully with undivided attention on my new role as the Chair of the Presidential Fiscal Policy & Tax Reform Committee, which I consider animportant national assignment.”
Nigeria is facing a serious challenge of feeding its growing population, as millions of people are at risk of hunger due to conflict, climate change, inflation and rising food prices.
The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation, as it has disrupted the food value chain and affected the livelihoods of farmers and consumers.
To address this urgent issue, President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, July 13, declared a state of emergency on food security and announced a series of interventions to boost food production and distribution, as well as to stabilize food prices and create jobs.
Today, we declared a state of emergency and unveiled a comprehensive intervention plan on food security, affordability, and sustainability, taking decisive action to tackle food inflation. These are steps towards a more food secure Nigeria for all. Our new initiatives will tackle… pic.twitter.com/DBb81p1jd2
The government has outlined the following measures to improve the food security situation in the country:
Providing fertilizers and grains to farmers and households to increase crop yields and reduce food shortages.
Assigning the National Security Council to oversee the food and water distribution across the country, especially in areas affected by insecurity and banditry.
Redirecting funds from fuel subsidies to support the agricultural sector, which employs about 70% of the labour force in Nigeria.
Establishing a National Commodity Board to regulate and stabilize food prices, which have increased by more than 20% in 2022, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
Enhancing agricultural practices and technologies to improve productivity and resilience to climate change and pests.
What are the objectives?
The benefits of government’s interventions include;
Reducing the cost of food for consumers, especially the poor and vulnerable who spend more than half of their income on food.
Promoting agricultural development and diversification, which are key to achieving economic growth and reducing poverty.
Creating employment opportunities for young people, women and rural dwellers, who are often excluded from the formal economy.
President Tinubu has assured of fairness, noting that no one would be overlooked in the government’s pursuit of ensuring affordable and abundant food for all.
And how does he plan to achieve this?
A National Commodity Board will be established to regulate and stabilize food prices, thereby fostering a more sustainable agricultural environment.
Also, government intends to allocate funds previously dedicated to fuel subsidies towards supporting the agricultural sector.
President Bola Tinubu has announced a state of emergency on food security in response to the persistent issue of food inflation in Nigeria.
The government has developed immediate, medium, and long-term interventions to tackle food shortages.
These measures include providing fertilizers and grains to farmers and households, as well as assigning responsibility for food and water to the National Security Council.
To support the agricultural sector, funds from the removal of fuel subsidies will be allocated, and a National Commodity Board will be established to regulate and stabilize food prices.
President Tinubu emphasized that the primary objectives of these initiatives are to reduce food costs, promote agricultural development, and generate employment opportunities.
In a post on his Twitter handle, President Tinubu said that the “new initiatives will tackle rising food costs, enhance agriculture, and boost job creation”.
“No-one will be left behind in our efforts to ensure affordable, plentiful food for every Nigerian,” he tweeted.
6. Creation of a National Commodity Board to review food prices and maintain a strategic food reserve.
7. Engagement of security architecture to protect farms and farmers.
8. Role of the Central Bank in funding the agricultural value chain.
A former governor from northern Nigeria recently voiced concerns about the country potentially facing a food crisis as a result of the ongoing banditry in the region.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also issued a warning about the potential rise in food prices and associated risks due to factors such as floods and the high cost of fertilizers.
These developments highlight the growing apprehension regarding Nigeria’s food security and the need for concerted efforts to address the challenges posed by insecurity, natural disasters, and the affordability of agricultural inputs.
It has been alleged that the Director General of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), Yusuf Bichi, enlisted the assistance of hackers to breach WhatsApp and gain access to the messages of President Bola Tinubu’s political opponents during and after the 2023 presidential election.
These hackers were reportedly brought in from Cape Verde under the direction of the DSS boss.
During the 2023 presidential election, Bola Tinubu, the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emerged as the winner.
However, his victory is currently being contested at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, along with their respective candidates, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
“The DG of DSS brought hackers from Cape Verde to help Tinubu break into WhatsApp messages of his opponents during the elections and afterwards,” one of the sources said.
In June, President Tinubu made a significant decision by authorizing the immediate retirement of various key officials, including the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, Advisers, and the Comptroller-General of Customs.
These retirements took effect immediately, and President Tinubu also announced their respective replacements.
Additionally, Chairman AbdulRasheed Bawa of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was indefinitely suspended from his position by President Tinubu.
“But guess who was spared from being axed! Yusuf Bichi. That is the reason why Tinubu retained Bichi after firing all the heads of security agencies,” one of the sources said.
The Director of Information in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Willie Bassey, in a statement, disclosed that the suspension would allow investigations into “weighty allegations” of abuse of office against the suspended chairman of the anti-corruption body.
“President Tinubu has approved the indefinite suspension from office of AbdulRasheed Bawa, CON, as the Chairman, Economic, and Financial Crimes Commission to allow for proper investigation into his conduct while in office. This follows weighty allegations of abuse of office levelled against him.
“Bawa has been directed to immediately hand over the affairs of his office to the Director, Operations in the Commission, who will oversee the affairs of the Office of the Chairman of the Commission pending the conclusion of the investigation,” the statement read.
Bawa was appointed by then President Muhammadu Buhari in February 2021 as the EFCC chairman following the removal of Ibrahim Magu, his predecessor, over allegations of corruption.
Bawa was subsequently invited for questioning by the DSS and has been in the custody of the secret police since then.
On June 28, SaharaReporters exclusively reported that Bawa had been moved from the headquarters of the secret police to a private facility.
Sources told SaharaReporters that Bawa was moved to another facility to have total control over him after he refused to write any statements in custody.
SaharaReporters also exclusively reported on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, that Bawa had refused to write statements at the secret police’s facility. It was learnt that Bawa told investigators that the DSS had no right to detain him without charges, hence his refusal to write any statements in custody.
“They’ve taken Bawa from DSS headquarters to one of their private facilities to have total control over him after he refused to write statements requested from him,” a top security source had said.
Following their suspension from their respective offices by President Tinubu’s administration due to corruption allegations and abuse of office, both AbdulRasheed Bawa, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Godwin Emefiele, the suspended governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, have been detained.
SaharaReporters previously reported that Emefiele implicated Bawa as an accomplice in the Naira redesign scandal that shook the country some months ago.
Bawa’s invitation and subsequent interrogation by the Department of State Services (DSS) occurred shortly after Emefiele’s arrest and transfer from Lagos to Abuja for alleged corruption and abuse of office.
On November 23, 2022, then-President Buhari and Emefiele unveiled new Nigerian currency notes with denominations of N200, N500, and N1,000.
Emefiele clarified that the old notes would no longer be considered legal tender after January 31, 2023. Emefiele emphasized that the move was not aimed at any specific individual, although there were speculations that it was influenced by the influential group within the Presidency to hinder the chances of Bola Tinubu, who was the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), from winning the election held on February 25, 2023.
This policy resulted in significant hardships for Nigerians due to the scarcity of new currency notes. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) struggled to meet the demand, leading to cash shortages and long queues at banks and ATMs.
Furthermore, Emefiele disregarded a Supreme Court ruling that extended the validity of the old notes until December 31. Former President Buhari distanced himself from the non-compliance with the court order.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission, Bola Tinubu emerged as the winner of the election, defeating 17 other candidates with a total of 8,794,726 votes. Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) secured second place with 6,984,520 votes, while Peter Obi of the Labour Party came third with 6,101,533 votes. Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party came fourth with 1,496,687 votes.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has been placed head of the economic and financial crimes unit, Abdulrasheed Bawa, on indefinite administrative leave for abuse of office.
The suspension was due to “weighty allegations of abuse of office”, against Bawa, a statement from the presidency said late on Wednesday June 14 2023.
The move came a week after the president suspended the country’s central bank Governor Godwin Emefiele.
Local media have reported that Bawa is currently being interrogated by Nigeria’s secret police, like Emefiele.
A spokesman for the unit, officially known as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) did not immediately respond to calls for comment.
Created 20 years ago, the EFCC investigates and prosecutes financial crimes, including money laundering and corruption.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to remove the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) from the board of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
This request comes in response to the recently signed students’ loan bill, which includes provisions for the composition of the board.
During a visit to the State House on Tuesday, the NANS delegation, led by the body’s National President, Umar Barambu, revealed that they urged him to review the constitution of the special committee that will oversee the new Nigerian Education Loan Fund to include student representatives.
The NANS President said, “We thank the President for the Students Loan Bill. We have outlined the clauses that we are not too comfortable with.
“And part of them is the issue of that board that we mentioned to the President, which we said at least students’ representatives should be captured and there are some organisations that they put there, which to us, they don’t need to be there.
“We gave him an example, most especially the Nigerian Bar Association, ASUU. ASUU has its own microfinance bank running its own affairs without students on its board. So, I don’t think it’s wise for us to allow them to be inside our own board because it is purely students.
“We are the major stakeholders of that bank. So I don’t think allowing them to be there is good. Not only them, but we also mentioned a lot of people that they should remove and put more of student-oriented organisation.”
In response, President Tinubu assured the NANS leaders that he would carefully consider their requests. However, he also emphasized the importance of unity among the student body nationwide, highlighting that greater achievements could be attained through collective efforts.
“You have to promote unity and stability among each other. You have to employ democratic means in your programmes and elections. I have to say, anyone who is unable to accept and celebrate a free and fair election, does not deserve the joy of victory,” Tinubu said.
The President stressed that poverty should not prevent any Nigerian from obtaining quality education at the highest levels.
He promised that his administration would commit more resources to the education sector to ensure that every Nigerian child, regardless of their background, has access to quality education.
“Poverty should not prevent anybody, any child, including the daughter or son of a wood seller, ‘boli’ (plantain) seller or yam seller from attaining their highest standard of education, to eliminate poverty.
“If we all believe that education is the greatest weapon against poverty, then we have to invest in it. If you eliminate poverty from one family, you can carry the rest of the weight,” the President said.
He thanked the students for supporting the removal of subsidy on petrol, explaining the reasons behind the decision and the need to curb smuggling.
“I’m glad you understand the reason for the subsidy removal. We were at a point where Nigeria tried to draw water from a dry well and that is no longer acceptable we equally must not continue to service the smugglers because they used to take our tankers and Premium Motor Spirit across the borders. We will put our money where our mouth is,” he said.
Nigeria‘s newly inaugurated President, Bola Tinubu, has wasted no time embracing his new role with boundless enthusiasm, captivating the nation and online audiences alike.
As the inauguration ceremony unfolded, with many Nigerians tuning in through live streaming platforms and keeping track of updates on social media, eagle-eyed netizens quickly noticed a significant change in Tinubu’s Twitter and Facebook bios.
Mere minutes after being officially sworn in as President, his Twitter profile underwent a swift transformation, shedding the title of “President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria” and proudly donning the prestigious status of “President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” The alteration was met with both awe and anticipation, symbolizing the dawn of a new era under his leadership.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, widely known as Asiwaju, secured his place as President after emerging victorious in the Nigerian elections held in March earlier this year. Brimming with eagerness, he eagerly embraces the weighty responsibilities that accompany his new position, prepared to steer the nation towards a brighter future.
In the lead-up to his inauguration, Tinubu took to Twitter to express his heartfelt gratitude to all those who have supported him thus far. In a tweet that resonated with his supporters, he extended his appreciation to those who joined both physically and virtually in the exhilarating RENEWED HOPE CONCERT.
With sincere admiration, he acknowledged their unwavering support and dedication, highlighting the awe-inspiring rendition of the National Anthem by @Praiz8 as the standout moment of the night. The performance filled hearts with renewed hope, serving as a powerful reminder of the unity that binds Nigerians together.
Tinubu’s message carried a resounding call for the nation to embrace this moment of unity, allowing it to ignite their collective determination and propel them towards a Nigeria adorned with a brighter future. Together, he believes they will forge a nation synonymous with freedom, peace, and unity.
As the nation embarks on this new chapter under President Tinubu’s leadership, the anticipation and optimism in the air are palpable. With a vibrant spirit and a renewed sense of hope, Nigerians eagerly look forward to the transformative journey ahead, united in their pursuit of a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, born in Lagos on 29th March 1952, will be sworn in as the President of Nigeria today, Monday, 29th May 2023.
He is set to become the country’s 16th president since 1960 after taking over from Muhammadu Buhari, his immediate predecessor. He will also become Nigeria’s fifth president of the Fourth Republic.
Tinubu is known as the “godfather” in Nigeria’s political space due to his influence. He has held several positions that have elevated his impact in Nigeria.
This article will look at Tinubu’s journey and highlight the most significant parts, from his birth to his most influential position as President.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Buhari
Early life and education
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was born in Lagos on 29th March 1952. Information about his parents is scarce. Tinubu is said to have spent his early days in southwestern Nigeria before moving to the United States of America (USA). According to reports, his mother supported this migration.
He arrived in the US in 1975 and completed his undergraduate studies there, first at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago and then at Chicago State University. To overcome the initial difficulties of school, he had to take on jobs such as dishwashing, night-guard, and cab-driving.
Chicago State University
Due to his brilliance, Tinubu had the rare privilege of partly teaching other students in his Faculty remedial tutorial classes during his first year at Chicago State University.
During his undergraduate years, Bola excelled academically, consistently making the Dean’s List and receiving prestigious awards such as the Outstanding Student’s Award, the University Scholar’s Award, and the Certificate of Merit in Accounting and Finance. His exceptional performance earned him the esteemed Summa Cum Laude distinction with a GPA of 3.54 out of 4.0.
In his final year at university, Bola successfully ran for and won the position of President of the Accounting Society, showcasing his leadership abilities and popularity among his peers.
Tinubu later graduated in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Accounting and Management).
Tinubu at 2023 Presidential inauguration
Life outside school
After graduating with honors and numerous accolades, Bola Tinubu embarked on his professional journey at renowned American firms such as Arthur Anderson, Deloitte Haskins and Sells (now known as Deloitte Haskins and Touche), and GTE Service Corporation, the largest communication and utility company in the United States.
At Deloitte Haskins and Sells, Bola gained valuable experience by contributing to auditing and management consultancy services for prominent companies like General Motors, First National Bank of Chicago, Procter and Gamble, International Harvester, GEC, and other Fortune 500 firms.
Equipped with his international exposure in financial management, Bola returned to Nigeria and joined Mobil Producing Nigeria, where he occupied a senior position.
Tinubu’s political life
Bola Ahmed Tinubu made his initial entry into active politics as a founding member of the now-defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). In 1992, he was elected as a respected Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
During his tenure, he notably served as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Finance, Appropriation, and Currency, a prominent committee in the Senate.
Following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 Nigerian Presidential Election and the subsequent militarization of Nigerian politics, Tinubu became a founding member of the renowned pro-democracy group, the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
Despite facing numerous arrests, detentions, harassment, and threats to his life, he remained committed to the cause, even going into exile to join NADECO abroad in advocating for the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.
In 1998, Tinubu responded to the call for national reconciliation and development and returned to Nigeria. The following year, he began his two-term tenure as the elected Executive Governor of Lagos State, representing the Alliance for Democracy (AD) political party.
During his time as Governor (1999-2007), Tinubu’s exemplary performance earned him several accolades and recognition, including the Best Governor in Nigeria for Y2000 by the Nigerian-Belgian Chamber of Commerce and the Y2002 Best Practices Prize for improving the living environment awarded by the Federal Ministry of Works and the UN Habitat Group.
He also received the Y2000 Best Computerized Government in Nigeria Award from the Computer Association of Nigeria. In recognition of his significant contributions to democracy, good governance, and national development, Tinubu was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree by Abia State University.
He holds various chieftaincy titles and serves as a patron to numerous professional and social organizations.
As a skilled political strategist, Tinubu successfully navigated the incursion of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the South Western States of Nigeria.
Tinubu during his two-day visit to Rivers State
Despite facing opposition, he stood as the lone re-elected Governor from the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and engaged in frequent disputes with the PDP-controlled Federal Government, particularly regarding the creation of an additional 37 Local Council Development Areas for Lagos State.
A Supreme Court judgment ruled in his favor, compelling the release of the seized statutory allocation of the Lagos State Local Government funds by the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Tinubu played a significant role in the establishment of the Action Congress (AC) political party as a response to the weakened Alliance for Democracy (AD).
Through his adept leadership and persuasive ideas, he quickly transformed the AC into a credible opposition party to the PDP at the national level.
In 2013, Mr. Tinubu’s Action Congress (AC) joined forces with the All Nigerians Peoples Party (ANPP), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and factions of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to form the All Progressives Congress (APC). This merger resulted in a powerful opposition party in Nigeria.
On 31st July 2013, the party received approval from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to become an official political party, leading to the withdrawal of operating licenses for the ACN, CPC, and ANPP.
The APC quickly gained popularity among Nigerian voters and successfully defeated the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 elections. The pivotal role played by Mr. Tinubu in the formation of the APC was acknowledged by several leaders within the party.
Tinubu’s journey to becoming President
In January 2022, Bola Tinubu officially announced his candidacy for the Nigerian presidency in the 2023 elections.
In June of that same year, Tinubu won the presidential primary of his party, securing over 1,271 votes and defeating his closest rivals, ex-minister Rotimi Amaechi and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
Subsequently, in the presidential elections held in February 2023, Tinubu competed against Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, who were his main contenders.
Tinubu emerged as the victor, receiving 36 percent of the more than 24 million votes cast, according to the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The opposition has raised concerns of possible irregularities, and Mr. Peter Obi has sought legal recourse to address the situation. But the class action has not hindered President-elect Tinubu from being sworn in as the country’s substantive president.
Today, President-elect Bola Tinubu will be sworn in as Nigeria’s 16th president since the country’s independence in 1960.
Kashim Shettima will be sworn in as the country’s new vice president.
Both will take over from President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, whose second four-year term ends today.
The inauguration of Messrs Tinubu and Shettima will hold at Eagle Square, Abuja.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on 1 March, declared Mr Tinubu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the 25 February presidential election.
He defeated 17 other candidates who took part in the election after polling 8,794,726 votes. He also scored over 25 per cent of the votes in over 25 states.
His closest rival, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a former vice president, polled a total of 6,984,520 votes while the Labour Party (LP) flag bearer, Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, garnered 6,101,533 votes and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) 1,496,687 votes.
Mr Tinubu, 71, will be inaugurated as the fifth president of the current Fourth Republic which began in 1999. He served as governor of Lagos State, the country’s economic hub, between 1999 and 2007. An accountant by profession, Mr Tinubu had previously served as a senator in the short-lived Third Republic.
Mr Shettima, 57, was governor of Borno State in the nation’s north-east region between 2011 and 2015 when he was elected to represent the state’s central district. The vice president-elect who is a professional banker served at various times as the state commissioner for finance and economic development, local government and chieftaincy affairs, education, agriculture and health.
Today’s ceremony, the 7th consecutive transition of power, holds at 10 a.m., according to the Presidential Transition Committee (PTC) constituted by the outgoing Buhari administration to midwife the transition programme. Previous presidents’ inaugurations were held in the same facility. The facility has since undergone renovation in preparation for today’s Inauguration.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, is expected to administer the oath of office on Messrs Tinubu and Shettima. The inauguration was preceded by a number of other activities packaged by the 24-member PTC and held in the last eight days. They included the dinner in honour of the duo and the outgoing administration and the conferment of GCFR and GCON on them.
Foreign heads of state and government and dignitaries, including delegations from the US and the UK, will attend the inauguration. Several foreign and local media have also been accredited to cover the historic event.
Remarkably, the event is holding despite various moves to abort it through the plethora of court cases as well as protests by some groups. Messrs Atiku and Obi as well as the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) are currently challenging the declaration of Mr Tinubu as the winner of the February poll. The Presidential Election Petition Court has since consolidated the three petitions.
The transition council, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, said adequate arrangements have been made for the safety and security of the people attending the ceremony. Already, security has been beefed up in the federal capital, especially around Eagle Square located in the Central Business District of the territory. The police and paramilitary outfits have cordoned off the venue and restricted movements around Eagle Square to ensure a hitch-free ceremony.
Nigeria is often referred to as the “giant of Africa”, given its huge population and economic potential, but it has some gigantic problems too – and these will confront Bola Tinubu as he takes over as president on Monday.
The 71-year-old is unlikely to be fazed by the challenges. As a two-time governor of Lagos, he revitalised Nigeria’s commercial hub – no easy task – and is well aware of the issues.
But Nigerians, even those who did not vote for him, will want to see early results from Mr Tinubu. Here are some of the major hurdles he faces and how he may tackle them.
Ending the fuel subsidy
This challenge has been kicked down the road by successive governments since its introduction in the 1970s.
Despite its oil riches, Nigeria is unable to refine enough crude to meet local demands so it imports petroleum products, which are then sold at a government-set price. As this is usually lower than the import price, the government pays the difference.
Image caption,Cheap fuel is seen by many Nigerians as their right given the country’s oil wealth
But this subsidy is taking a huge toll on dwindling public finances. Last year it guzzled 4.3trn naira ($9.3bn; £7.5bn) and for the first half of this year, 3.36trn naira was budgeted.
These payments come at the expense of development goals such as building schools or hospitals, but removing the subsidy will not be easy as it will lead to an increase in prices.
The last attempt to do so in 2012 ended in widespread protests.
Many struggling Nigerians, used to seeing politicians mismanaging the country’s oil wealth, believe cheap petrol is their share of what has been described as the “national cake”.
But Mr Tinubu has firmly repeated that the subsidy has to go, and his associates insist he has the political will to do it.
“He has a capacity to listen and to consult widely before making tough decisions,” Housing Minister Babatunde Fashola, a close colleague who succeeded Mr Tinubu as Lagos governor in 2007, told the BBC.
One area he may explore to lessen the impact is to subsidise and improve public transport – something he has experience in after implementing a massive public transport scheme in Lagos that put in place fast bus links.
The outgoing government has also managed to secure an $800m World Bank loan, intended to beef up its welfare scheme for vulnerable Nigerians who will be most affected by the loss of the subsidy. However, lawmakers still have to approve the package – so it is not a done deal.
Lack of popular support
Only 37% of voters backed Mr Tinubu, making him the Nigerian president elected with the least vote-share since 1999.
He won a tightly contested election that was not only rancorous, but exposed ethnic and religious divisions that have lingered even in Nigeria’s most cosmopolitan cities.
He will have to perform a balancing act when it comes to choosing his government to build bridges across these divides.
There are signs he is already doing so, reportedly meeting two opposition politicians since winning February’s vote:
Musa Kwankwaso, a powerful rival from the north, who was third runner-up
Nyesom Wike, the influential and outgoing governor of Rivers state.
As governor of Lagos, Mr Tinubu probably had the most ethnically diverse cabinet in Nigeria, appointing non-Lagosians into key positions, which is still a rarity.
“He is more interested in technocrats who are thinkers and researchers,” his friend Seye Oyetade told the BBC.
But politicians, often with common interests, may be easier to placate than the millions of young Nigerians who did not vote for him – especially those who supported Peter Obi of the Labour Party.
Many of them consider the vote flawed, though the electoral commission denies this – and an election challenge is still pending in court.
Close allies say by making jobs available and getting young people involved in governance, Mr Tinubu may win over some of them.
“You will see a government that will embrace new ideas and technology and by extension, you will see a lot of young people around him,” Mr Fashola explained.
Fixing the economy
Most agree that as a trained accountant, this is Mr Tinubu’s area of expertise – but things have never looked worse for Nigeria:
One in three are unemployed
Inflation is at a record 22%
96 million live below the poverty line of $1.90 per day
GDP per head (the economic output produced in a year by the average person) was $2,065 for 2021 (compared to $70,248 for the US and $46,510 for the UK)
Low revenues from declining oil sales.
Mr Oyetade bats away such statistics: “These are not too dissimilar to what he met in Lagos in 1999.”
This may be hyperbole, but Mr Tinubu’s use of technology to improve tax collection in Lagos was remarkable, increasing revenue by more than 400% in eight years.
Image caption,It can be hard to get hold of foreign currency, which has led to a widening gap between the official and black market rates
He has spoken several times of his ambition to widen the tax net, but this might be harder to replicate at a national level given high inflation, rising poverty and widespread insecurity that often stops people from working.
Mr Tinubu also favours a more private-sector led approach, in contrast to his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, who aimed to bolster national welfare safety nets.
But it his relationship with Godwin Emefiele, the central bank governor, that will be key.
The incoming president has criticised the bank’s policy of using multiple exchange rates.
This keeps the naira artificially high – the official exchange rate is 460 naira: $1, available to different categories of people who have to apply and wait till it is available.
Everyone else who wants forex must use the parallel rate – currently 760 naira: $1, meaning there is a widening gap between the official and black market.
For any review to happen, Mr Tinubu will need to work with Mr Emefiele, who has another year left to serve as governor.
The two have a fractious relationship following the central bank’s move to redesign the local currency – leading to huge cash shortages – just before the election. This was seen by some as a ploy to scupper the ruling party’s chances of winning the vote – allegations Mr Emefiele denies.
Kidnapping and insecurity
Mr Tinubu will want to get a grip on this quickly, given the scale of problem. His administration will be confronting armed criminals on motorcycles in the north-west, countrywide kidnapping and a violent secessionist group in the south-east. Deadly clashes between farmers and herders also continue in the central states.
During the election campaign, Mr Tinubu’s deputy, incoming Vice-President Kashim Shettima, said this would be his remit – touting his experience as governor of north-eastern Borno state, home to many Islamist militant groups and the Boko Haram insurgency.
Image caption,Relatives of those kidnapped have been left distraught and desperate to raise money for ransoms
But Nigeria’s security challenges have evolved since he left office in 2019 and President Buhari, a former army general, failed dismally to find an answer during his eight years in power – instead insecurity has escalated nationwide.
The Tinubu-Shettima plan includes using anti-terrorist battalions with special forces to go after the kidnappers and extremist groups.
More importantly, they have proposed freeing police personnel from VIP security and guard duties, which could see more officers on the streets fighting crime.
Staying fit – and other distractions
Opponents of the incoming president say he has lost the vitality he used to forcefully modernise Lagos.
Since the election, he has travelled abroad twice, raising questions about his health. In 2021 he spent months in London being treated for an undisclosed illness.
He has brushed off the criticism, saying the job does not require the fitness of an Olympic athlete and his associates are quick to remind everyone that US President Joe Biden is older, at 80.
But Nigerians are weary of seeing presidents spend considerable time in hospitals abroad, leading to government in-fighting for control. This happened under both Mr Buhari and Umaru Yar’Adua, who died in office in 2010.
They are also worried about potential controversies. Before the vote Mr Tinubu denied various allegations of links to narcotics and corruption.
Since his victory, it has been revealed that he was once issued with a Guinean diplomatic passport – which is not illegal but was not previously disclosed. While a Bloomberg investigation said his son owns an £11m mansion in London. Neither Mr Tinubu, his son, nor his allies have commented on the report, and it has not been confirmed that Mr Tinubu was involved in the purchase.
Allies of Mr Tinubu will be concerned that any further allegations could distract him from the massive job he is about to undertake.
The Nigerian police say they have freed 58 persons who had been kidnapped and held prisoner in Kogi state’s central region by criminal groups.
How long they had been detained remained unclear.
According to a police spokeswoman, the rescue in Udulu Forest was a cooperative effort by local volunteer defense organizations.
She claimed that one captive died during the operation while the abduction group fled with minor injuries.
Bola Tinubu, the incoming president who will take office later this month, will face a number of difficult security concerns, including kidnappings for ransom.
During Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure as president, they spread to numerous states and became typical.
Despite legal challenges to his victory, Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, will be sworn in on May 29, according to Lai Mohammed, the minister of information.
As outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari officially leaves office in May, groups angry over the results of the presidential election on February 25 are calling for an interim administration.
According to Mr. Mohammed, there is “no basis” for the formation of an interim administration. The right to dispute the presidential election in court, he claimed, belongs to the opposition political groups.
On March 21, four presidential candidates filed lawsuits to contest Mr. Tinubu’s election, alleging massive vote-rigging and tallying manipulation.
It takes about eight months for the judiciary to determine a presidential election petition. The petition must be heard within 180 days from the day it is filed. A petitioner can appeal the tribunal’s judgement at the Court of Appeal within 21 days from the decision date.
If petitioners are dissatisfied with the appellate court’s decision, which is delivered within 60 days, they have 21 days to appeal it at the Supreme Court, whose decision is final.
Bola Tinubu, the incoming president of Nigeria, has traveled to France and the UK to “relax” and organize the transition process before his inauguration on May 29, 2023.
The president-elect left the country on Tuesday, according to a statement released on Wednesday by Mr. Tinubu’s spokeswoman, Tunde Rahman.
The president-elect, according to Mr. Rahman, would later perform the Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
“The president-elect decided to take a break after the hectic campaign and election season to rest in Paris and London, preparatory to going to Saudi Arabia for Umrah (Lesser Hajj) and the Ramadan fasting that begins Thursday,” Mr Rahman said.
He added that Mr Tinubu is expected back in the country “soon”.
The president-elect’s frequent travels overseas continue to fuel speculation about his health.
He made several unannounced trips to the UK and France before campaigns started in 2022.
He is also facing legal battles over his victory in last month’s presidential election.
Nigeria’s President-elect, Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu, is a Nigeria politician and a former governor of Lagos who is married to the pastor of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and Senator, Oluremi Tinubu.
They got married in the year 1987 and have 6 children.
According to sources, Asiwaju had three children with different women before he got married to Oluremi.
His first three children are Jide Tinubu, Seyi Tinubu, and Shade Tinubu, while his kids with Remi are Zainab Abisola Tinubu, Habibat Tinubu, and Olayinka Tinubu.
According to information gathered by the local media, Bola Tinubu sadly, sadly lost his first child Mr Jide Tinubu in 2017. Therefore, he has 5 children as of May 2022 who are still alive.
Here are the names and details of his children:
OlaJide Tinubu (late)
Folashade Tinubu-Ojo
Seyi Tinubu
Zainab Abisola Tinubu
Habibat Tinubu
Olayinka Tinubu
Olajide Tinubu
Jide Tinubu is the first child and first son of Bola Tinubu whom he had with his alleged first wife. Jide was born on October 12, 1974 (some reports state his year of birth as 1980) and graduated from the University of Liverpool, England where he studied law. Before his death, he practised as a lawyer in Mobil and also spent the majority of his lifetime in London. There he lived with his wife and three sons.
Sadly, he died of cardiac arrest on October 31, 2017, at the age of 43. After his death, Tinubu his dad described him as a “highly intelligent person with a vibrant personality and a zest for life”.
Tinubu’s first son, Jide Tinubu (Late)
Folashade Tinubu-Ojo
Folashade Tinubu, is the second child and first daughter of Bola Tinubu. She graduated from Middlesex University in London with a degree in business administration. Folashade has served as the Iyaloja General of Lagos State since 2013. She has authority over all traders in the markets of Lagos, including the ability to collect taxes from them. Oyetunde Ojo, a former member of the House of Representatives, is currently married to Folashade Tinubu Ojo. The pair has two children together as of May 2022 who were both born through surrogacy.
Iyaloja Folashade Tinubu-Ojo
Seyi Tinubu
Seyi Tinubu is the third child and second son of Bola Tinubu. He was born on October 13, 1985, and is 36 years old as of May 2022. Seyi Tinubu’s mother is allegedly Prophetess Bunmi Oshonike. According to reports, Tinubu had an affair with Bunmi leading to Seyi’s birth.
Seyi Tinubu graduated from the University Of Buckingham where he bagged a degree in Law. Aside from being a lawyer, Seyi is an entrepreneur and also philanthropist. He is the CEO of Loatsad Promomedia LTD, an advertising agency. Seyi is also the founder of the Noella Foundation. His foundation is a non-profit organization that creates job opportunities for Nigerians.
In August 2016, Seyi Tinubu married Nigerian-Lebanese entrepreneur Layal Holm. They had a colourful wedding ceremony at Lake Como, Italy. As of May 2022, Seyi Tinubu and his wife Holm have 2 lovely children.
Meanwhile, Seyi Tinubu allegedly has another child with Freda Francis, a Nigerian socialite and businesswoman who is also known to be an ex-girlfriend of music artist Iyanya. In 2021, there were rumours that Seyi Tinubu had gotten Freda pregnant for the second time. There was also news that his wife Layal Holm left him because of this. However, the Loatsad CEO debunked the rumour.
Seyi Tinubu and wife, Layal Holm
Zainab Abisola Tinubu
Zainab Tinubu is Tinubu’s fourth child. However, she is the first child of Tinubu with his wife Oluremi Tinubu because the first three children were from Asiwaju’s past relationships. Information about Zainab is currently scarce because her parents like to keep her off the media.
Habibat Tinubu
Habitat Tinubu is Tinubu’s fifth child and last daughter. She is Tinubu’s second child from Senator Oluremi. The only information about Habibat that is public is that she is a graduate of music. She graduated from Berklee College of Music, Boston on May 11, 2013.
Olayinka Tinubu
Olayinka Tinubu is Tinubu’s last child and third child from Pastor Oluremi. However, there is no information about Olayinka that is available online apart from his name.
Following the announcement of Bola Tinubu as the president-elect of Nigeria, some celebrities have taken to their respective social media accounts to react to the news.
The Independent National Electoral Commission chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu on Wednesday, March 1, declared Bola Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 general election.
Tinubu beat Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, his major contenders, to emerge as the winner.
However, some celebrities have since taken to social media to share their thoughts on the development.
President-elect, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration shall bring smiles to the faces of all Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliations. He gave the pledge on Wednesday morning in his acceptance speech, delivered at the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council secretariat in Abuja.
He also called on his opponents to collaborate with him to build a betterNigeria.
“THE ERA OF RENEWED HOPE“
By The President-Elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,
My fellow Nigerians,
I am profoundly humbled that you have elected me to serve as the 16th president of our beloved republic. This is a shining moment in the life of any man and affirmation of our democratic existence. From my heart, I say thank you.
Whether you are Batified, Atikulated, Obidient, Kwankwasiyya, or have any other political affiliation, you voted for a better, more hopeful nation and I thank you for your participation and dedication to our democracy.
You decided to place your trust in the democratic vision of a Nigeria founded on shared prosperity and one nurtured by the ideals of unity, justice, peace and tolerance. Renewed hope has dawned in Nigeria.
We commend INEC for running a free and fair election. The lapses that did occur were relatively few in number and were immaterial to the final outcome. With each cycle of elections, we steadily perfect this process so vital to our democratic life.
Today, Nigeria stands tall as the giant of Africa. It shines even brighter as the continent’s biggest democracy.
I thank all who supported my campaign. From President Buhari who adeptly led my campaign as its chairman, to my Vice Presidential Candidate, Senator Kashim Shettima.
To the progressive governors of our party and this nation, to the party leadership, to our loyal party members. I owe you a debt of gratitude. To the entire campaign organization, I thank you sincerely.
I thank my loving wife and dear family whose support was ceaseless and inspiring. Without you, this victory would not be possible.
I am grateful to Almighty God. By His mercy, I was born a son of Nigeria and through His sublime purpose I find myself the victor of this election. May He grant me the wisdom and courage to lead the nation to the greatness He alone has destined for it.
Finally, I thank the Nigerian people for their abiding belief in our democracy. I shall be a fair leader to all Nigerians. I will be in tune with your aspirations, charge up your energies and harness your talents to deliver a nation that we can be proud of.
To my fellow candidates, former VP Atiku, former governor Kwankwaso, former governor Obi and all others, I extend the hand of friendship. This was a competitive, high-spirited campaign.
You have my utmost respect.
During the election, you may have been my opponent but you were never my enemy. In my heart, you are my brothers.
Still, I know some candidates will be hard put to accept the election results. It is your right to seek legal recourse. What is neither right nor defensible is for anybody to resort to violence. Any challenge to the electoral outcome should be made in a court of law, and not in the streets.
I also ask my supporters to let peace reign and tensions fade. We ran a principled, peaceful and progressive campaign. The aftermath of our campaign must be as benign.
Yes, there are divisions amongst us that should not exist. Many people are uncertain, angry and hurt; I reach out to every one of you. Let the better aspects of our humanity step forward at this fateful moment. Let us begin to heal and bring calm to our nation.
Now, to you, the young people of this country, I hear you loud and clear. I understand your pains, your yearnings for good governance, a functional economy and a safe nation that protects you and your future.
I am aware that for many of you Nigeria has become a place of abiding challenges limiting your ability to see a bright future for yourselves.
Remodeling our precious national home requires the harmonious efforts of all of us, especially the youth. Working together, we shall move this nation as never before.
My running mate, Vice President-elect Shettima, and I understand the challenges ahead. More importantly, we also understand and deeply value the talent and innate goodness of you, the Nigerian people. We pledge to listen and to do the difficult things, the big deeds, that put us on the path of irreversible progress. Hold us firmly to account, but please give us a chance first.
Together, we shall build a brighter and more productive society for today, tomorrow and for years to come.
Today, you have given me the greatest honor you can bestow on one man.
In return, I will give you my utmost as your next president and commander-in-chief. Peace, unity and prosperity shall be the cornerstones of the society we intend to build. When you gaze upon what we shall accomplish in the coming years, you shall speak with pride at being a Nigerian.
I thank you all.
God bless you all. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
On March 1st, 2023, Bola Tinubu won Nigeria’s presidential election by defeating his closest rival, Peter Obi, and other contestants.
While many Nigerians celebrated Tinubu’s victory, some were not pleased with the outcome.
Ghanaian socialite, Afia Schwarzenegger, and political analyst, Kwame A Plus, both posted on Instagram, expressing their views on the election results.
Afia Schwarzenegger’s post, which featured a photo of the 70-year-old looking dejected and confused while wearing a Jalabia and a hat, suggested that Nigerians had made the wrong choice.
She wrote, “Okay ooo…Since this is what you want…Congratulations Nigerians…Africa is proud of you all.”
Meanwhile, A Plus appeared to question the decision of Nigerians, writing, “Wei????♂️????♂️ Aaawell… Congratulations Sir,” after asking if Tinubu was really the man Nigerians had voted for.
The posts by Afia and A Plus generated a lot of reactions from netizens, with some Nigerians accusing the pair of being ignorant of Nigerian politics and not understanding the election’s significance.
This is not the first time Afia Schwarzenegger and Kwame A Plus have sparked controversy on social media. Their posts highlight the deep divisions in Nigerian politics and the polarizing nature of social media.
The election results underscore the contrasting views of Nigerians on Tinubu’s leadership capabilities.
While some see him as a capable leader who can take Nigeria to the next level, others view him as a representative of the old political order that has failed to address the country’s many problems.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos state has praised Nigerians for continuing to carry out their duties to strengthen the nation’s democracy despite the terrible difficulties they face.
Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the party’s chairman, also thanked the party’s leaders, supporters, and members for their dedication, patience, devotion, vigilance, and sacrifice in the days leading up to the election as well as during and after it.
While congratulating the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Tinubu on his well-deserved victory at the just concluded presidential election, Ojelabi assured Nigerians that the President-elect will fulfil the social contract by delivering in totality on his manifesto of renewed hope to usher in an era of peace, security, prosperity, nationwide growth and our restoration to a place of pride in the comity of nations.
The statement reads, “chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has congratulated the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his well-deserved victory in the recently held presidential elections.
He acknowledged the wide support for Asiwaju across the board despite the keen nature of the contest.
He expressed his appreciation to all the leaders, members, and sympathizers of APC for their diligence, perseverance, commitment, vigilance, and sacrifice in the days preceding the election, during and thereafter.
Despite the excruciating challenges of recent times, he appreciated all Nigerians who performed their responsibilities to further entrench our democracy.
The electoral body, INEC, the security agencies, and other stakeholders will go down in history as midwives to a free, fair, transparent, and historic election in Nigeria.
The role of the opposition parties, who made a keen contest of the election by providing options for the electorates, was significant of tremendous growth in our nascent democracy.
He assured that the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will fulfil his part of the social contract with all Nigerians by delivering in totality on his manifesto of renewed hope to usher in an era of peace, security, prosperity, nationwide growth, and our restoration to a place of pride in the comity of nations.
Nigerians have chosen a prepared president whose selling point remains his antecedent, pedigree, and unwavering commitment to progressive governance.”
After receiving more than 25% of the vote in 12 states, Bola Tinubu of the All Progressive Congress Party has obtained the simple majority needed to be proclaimed the winner of the presidential elections.
With 8,805,428 votes, the former governor of Lagos and APC national leader won the majority of the vote. Atiku and Obi came in second and third with 6,984,290 votes and 6,093,962 votes, respectively.
Rabiu Kwankwaso, the New Nigeria Peoples Party’s (NNPP) fourth-place finisher in the presidential election, received 1,496,671 votes.
The winner must receive the most votes overall and at least 25% of the votes cast in each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as required by the constitution (Abuja)
According to the results, Peter Obi of the Labour Party is in second place with 24% of the votes, followed by former vice president Abubakar with 2%.
Tinubu won the elections in Rivers, Borno, Jigawa, Zamfara, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Oyo, and Ogun states.
Atiku won in Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Kaduna, Gombe, Yobe, Bauchi, Adamawa, and Taraba states. He also won in Osun, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa states.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria, announced Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the winner of the 2023 presidential election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman Mahmood Yakubu’s announcement of March 1, 2023 signified the former governor of Lagos State’s realization of a lifelong desire to lead from Abuja.
Nonetheless, Tinubu is a contentious figure in Nigerian politics, in part because of his management style, his claim to political and commercial ownership of Lagos, as well as allegations of drug trafficking and corruption.
Here are 10 top facts about the man known as the landlord of Lagos:
1. His full name is Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu. He holds the titles of the Asiwaju of Lagos and the Jagaban of Borgu Kingdom.
2. His known date of birth is 29th March 1952, which makes him 70 years, a figure that has widely been disputed.
3. Even though he has become more famed for his influence in Lagos (Nigeria’s commercial hub) and his time as its governor, his birthplace is Osun State, southwest of Nigeria. He is a Yoruba by ethnicity
4. Tinubu had his education in Nigeria’s Ibadan before he continued to college in Chicago and onwards to the Chicago State University for his undergraduate studies. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 1979.
5. He worked for a number of accounting firms in the States before he moved to Nigeria in 1983. Bola Tinubu joined Mobil Oil Nigeria, and soon after, he was appointed as the company’s executive.
6. He joined politics in 1992 with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on whose ticket he became Lagos West Senator.
7. Tinubu joined pro-democracy groups after the ‘electoral coup’ of 1993 (when the military annuled the election of Moshood Abiola) and fled to exile in 1994 fearing the then Sani Abacha regime.
8. He came back to Nigeria in 1998 after the death of Sani Abacha. In January 1999, he vied for the position of Governor of Lagos State on the AD ticket. He was elected governor of the state.
He left the Lagos State government house in 2007 but has since influenced who becomes Lagos governor. The last three governors after he left have all admitted publicly to being his prodigies.
Tinubu’s infleunce has also extended across the southwest region and his political alliances have also seen him make very loyal friends in the Muslim dominated north.
9. He became national leader of the ruling APC after its formation in 2014 before the party won elections in 2015 with outgoing Muhammadu Buhari as its flagbearer. He run on a Muslim-Muslim ticket, i.e. he picked a Muslim as his vice (Kashim Shettima from Borno State) contrary to the religious balancing of tickets by the major parties.
10. He is married to Oluremi Tinubu, a Reverend Minister and has four children – Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, Oluwaseyi Tinubu, Abibat Tinubu, and the late Jide Tinubu.
Tinubu beats two main contenders
Tinubu was in the race along with the main opposition People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP).
In terms of the hard figures, APC polled 8,805,655 valid votes as against the PDP’s 6,984,520 and LP’s 6,098,588.
The New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) got 1,496,687 valid votes whiles the fourteen other aspirants together got the remaining 666,298.
Nigeria’s peculiar means of determining president means that the winner must get at least 25% of votes in two thirds of the 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja.
Tinubu had at least 25% of votes in 29 states, Atiku had 25% of votes in 21 states, Obi had 25% of votes in 16 states whiles Rabiu Kwankwaso of NNPP passed the threshold in only one state.
Tinubu is expected to be handed his certificate later today at the Abuja International Conference Center where INEC had used as the collation center for the presidential elections.
All People’s Congress’ (APC) candidate, Bola Tinubu, has won the 2023 Nigerian presidential election.
APC’s Tinubu, PDP’s Atiku Abubakr and LP’s Peter Obi were considered the frontrunners in the elections that was held over the weekend.
After collation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), 70-year-old Tinubu got 36% of the vote, official results show.
His main rival Atiku Abubakar polled 29%, and Labour’s Peter Obi 25%.
Ealier, the opposition parties dismissed the poll as a sham, and demanded a rerun.
Mr Tinubu is one of Nigeria’s richest politicians, and based his campaign on his record of rebuilding the biggest city, Lagos, when he was governor.
He was nevertheless defeated in the city by Mr Obi, a relative newcomer who mobilised the support of many young people, especially in urban areas, shaking up the country’s two-party system.
Mr Bola Tinubu will now take over the helm of affairs from President Buhari.
He becomes the fifth president after Nigeria ended its military rule.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for president, could easily win if the results of eight additional states’ presidential voting on Saturday match those already reported by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Results of the 2023 presidential election so far announced across the country put Tinubu ahead of his closest rivals, Atiku Abubakar of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), with Tinubu clinching stunning electoral victories in northern states that many would have readily given to the PDP flag bearer, Atiku, who is from the region.
In the results so far announced, Tinubu opened a significant lead over Atiku, beating the PDP candidate in North West states of Jigawa and Zamfara, while in states of the North East zone – like Atiku’s home state, Adamawa, as well as Gombe and Yobe, where Atiku won, Tinubu is coming a close second and picking up the 25 percent vote spread necessary for emerging winner of the election, including Kano where he was defeated by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
In the North Central zone, Tinubu won the presidential poll in Kwara, Kogi and Benue States, with a brighter chance in Niger State where unofficial results have already tipped him as winner.
Results from the North indicate that the region as a political bloc may likely make Tinubu from the South West geopolitical zone the next president of Nigeria, as it did in 1999 when ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo enjoyed a similar privilege at the dawn of this democratic dispensation.
LEADERSHIP recalls that in 1999 when the country returned to civil rule, General Obasanjo, who had just been released from prison after being accused of involvement of a coup plot by the Sani Abacha military junta, ran for presidential race on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) where he beat Dr Alex Ekwueme and other party bigwigs to clinch the party’s presidential ticket with majority votes from northern delegates in the party primary.
And having no political base in his South West region, Obasanjo, who even lost his polling unit, depended largely on votes from the North to beat Olu Falae of the All Peoples Party (APP) to win the two-horse presidential race.
The 2023 presidential poll also recorded a major upset, with the Labour Party candidate, Obi, redrawing the political map to reflect a new balance of power and political rebirth across the country with the Obedient Movement.
Obi polled 582,664 votes to defeat Tinubu in Lagos, a state the APC candidate served as governor for eight years, from 1999 to 2007. Tinubu came second with 572,606 votes, while Atiku got 75,750 votes.
Elections for the office of the president, 360 House of Representatives, and 109 Senatorial seats were held in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory on Saturday and Nigerians expect the declaration of results by the electoral umpire.
Though 18 candidates are in the race, pollsters and analysts had described the contest as a four-horse race between Tinubu, Atiku, Obi and Kwankwaso.
While Obi and Tinubu are from the southern region of the country, Kwankwaso and Atiku are from the northern part of Nigeria.
The four heavyweights and strong contenders have large followings with the numerical potential of emerging as the successor of President Muhammadu Buhari whose two-term tenure ends on May 29, 2023.
Elections were held at most of the 176,606 polling units in Nigeria, with 87.2 million voters with Permanent Voter Cards voting for their preferred candidates.
So far, election results for 11 states have been announced by the commission as of yesterday.
For Kwara, Tinubu polled 263,572 votes, followed by who scored 136,909 votes. Obi polled 31,166 votes, while Kwankwaso got 3,141 votes.
In Osun, Atiku of PDP won with 354,366, while the APC candidate came second with 343,945. Obi of LP got 23,283, and Kwankwaso of NNPP came fourth with 713.
For Ondo, Tinubu won with a wide margin, polling 369, 924, to defeat Atiku who came second with 115,463, followed by Obi, 44,405, and Kwankwaso, 930.
Results for Gombe and Yobe states were also announced. Atiku won both states. Likewise, Obi won Enugu and Lagos states, while Tinubu won Ogun and Oyo states.
INEC chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu said the collation of presidential election results will be done at four levels — first at the 8,889 wards, then at the 774 local government areas, the State Collation Officer for Presidential Election (SCOPE) at the 36 states, and the Federal Capital Territory will submit the votes per candidate in Abuja.
The electoral chief said the collation centre will be open all day and all night with short breaks.
He also cautioned political parties to only draw their figures from INEC.
“I appeal to all political parties and media organisations to draw their figures only from the official results released by the commission as the only body constitutionally responsible for releasing official election figures,” Yakubu emphasised.
For results announced at the state level, Tinubu is taking the lead with 94,977 votes from the ten local government areas that INEC had already collated results in Kogi State, while Atiku is following the APC with 57,889 votes.
The ten local government areas so far collated include Idah, Bassa, Omala, Ogori-Magongo, Yagba West, Mopamuro, Ofu, Igalamela-Odolu, Ankpa and Olamaboro.
Other LGAs are expected to be released as they arrive at the collation centre, though elections were delayed in some LGAs in Kogi state as a result of the malfunctioning of the BVAS machine and other reasons that resulted in the postponement of the election.
In Jigawa State, Tinubu polled 421,390 votes to defeat Atiku who scored 386,587, followed by Kwankwaso with 98,234 votes.
In Adamawa, Atiku polled 417,611 votes to defeat Tinubu who scored 182,881 votes.
In Akwa Ibom State, Atiku has been declared winner of the presidential poll, having won in 22, out of the 31 local government areas of the state.
Tinubu won in six LGAs, with Obi winning in three councils.
In Rivers, Tinubu is so far leading in nine, out of the 13 local government areas already declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State.
Also, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party is trailing behind Tinubu, having won two local government areas in the state.
The local government areas so far won by the APC presidential candidate include Gokana, Tai, Opobo/Nkoro, Emohua, Eleme, Omuma, Abua-Odual, Oyigbo and Asari-Toru.
On his part, the Labour Party presidential candidate won in Ahoada-West and Bunny local government areas of the state.
Obi won the presidential election in Enugu State, defeating candidates of other political parties in the 17 local government areas of the state.
The LP candidate scored 428,640, while the PDP’s Atiku came second with 15,747. Tinubu scored 4,772 while APGA scored 1548 and NNPP scored 1808.
Obi also won the presidential election held in Nasarawa State.
In the result announcement by INEC’s returning officer, Prof Ishaya Tanko, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Obi scored 191,361 against Tinubu’s 172, 922 and Atiku’S 147,093 to win the poll. Kwankwaso got a total of 12,715 votes.
In Plateau, Obi won 10 local government areas from results of 15 LGAs released by INEC
The LGAs won by Obi are Shendam where Governor Lalong comes from, Bassa, Pankshin, Jos South, Mangu, Jos East, Bokkos and Làngtang North, Riyom, Barkin-Ladi and Mikang.
Tinubu won in Kanam, Wase and Kanke LGAs, while Atiku won in Làngtang South and Mikang.
Meanwhile, results from Jos North and Quan’an Pan LGAS were expected to be announced later yesterday.
In Benue State, the collation officer for the presidential election, Prof. Farouk Kuta, declared the results of the election collated across the local government areas.
According to the results announced, Tinubu won with a total number of 310,468 votes, followed Obi who got 308,372, and Atiku who came third with a total votes of 130,081.
In Edo State, Obi was declared winner, polling a total of 331,163, Tinubu scored 144,471 to finish second. Atiku scored 89,585 votes, while Kwankwanso scored 2,743.
APC Campaign Asks Security Forces To Track Melaye, Momodu, Pastor Enenche For Inciting Violence
The All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council has called on security agencies to restrain spokespersons of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dino Melaye and Dele Momodu as well as Senior Pastor of Dunamis Church, Paul Enenche for allegedly inciting violence with their utterances in the aftermath of Saturday’s presidential poll.
It specifically accused Pastor Enenche of desecrating the sanctity of the pulpit with politics and utterances that are capable of inciting violence.
Speaking at a press conference at the APC presidential campaign head office in Abuja, special adviser on Media and Communication of the campaign council, Dele Alake, results from presidential polls so far have clearly shown the direction Nigerians have chosen to go, indicating that the deceit and propaganda of the opposition did turn out for them at the polls.
This, Alake said, has undoubtedly created unease in the opposition, and because failure was already dogging them in the face, they have resorted to cutting corners with a view to scuttling the electoral process, rather than accepting the results honourably true democrats would do.
The APC campaign team alleged that there had been many doctored results giving false victory to the Labour Party even in places where its presidential candidate performed poorly.
Asking security forces to go after Melaye, Momodu and Pastor Enenche, the APC said, “The results trickling in since the close of voting on Saturday have clearly shown the direction Nigerians have chosen to go.
“Right from the polling unit results received from across the country, the signs were clear that the deceit and propaganda of the opposition did not fetch them the expected votes. This has expectedly generated anxiety in their camps with many of their leaders making irresponsible incendiary comments.
“We note with utmost concern those inciting comments and call to violence by some spokespersons of the opposition, especially those from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“We are particularly concerned and call on the State Security Services and the Nigeria Police Force to immediately restrain persons such as Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu and a certain Pastor Paul Enenche of Dunamis Church from their clear call to violence.
“Melaye’s tweet threatening violence, Momodu going on the TV to announce a purported winner and Enenche’s hate speech from the pulpit violate every law of the land. They should not go scot-free.
“When failure stared them in the face, rather than accept the outcome with dignity like good democrats would, some sore losers began shopping for ways to cut corners or scuttle the process. We have seen many doctored results giving false victory to the Labour Party in places where it performed abysmally poor. The idea was to give its followers hope and prepare them for a planned street insurrection.
“The PDP has employed almost similar tactics despite secretly admitting defeat. They went about with mouthwatering offers looking for willing partners that would help them subvert the will of the people.”
Alake further noted that after failing to get their officials to doctor results, the PDP chose to make “very dangerous statements on the election,” even as he wondered why PDP agents “at the Abuja collation centre are pushing insistently for the uploading of the results on INEC portal, when section 60 of the Electoral Act is clear about who has the power to do so at the polling unit”.
He continued: “The state collation officer has no such power. The INEC chairman, who collates what has been collated from the states also has no such power. Is the PDP calling for the upload to enable it hack the system to give it a false victory?
“Unlike what the PDP spokesmen have done, we will not announce ourselves as winners despite having the figures which affirm our anticipated victory. We will abide by the laws by allowing the electoral umpire to do its job.
“A cursory look at the figures from across the states show that our candidate is well placed for victory. The results have shown that the Labour Party, as we kept saying, is no threat to our victory.
“The PDP, on the other hand, has also failed in its own permutation making its dream of victory go up in smoke. The PDP’s projection of a landslide win in the North has collapsed.”
The APC campaign council mocked PDP over what it described as “its dismal performance in Kano where the APC is emerging with over 600,000 difference ahead of the PDP.”
Noting that the monumental figure in Kano has offset the PDP in the entire North, Alake said the trend “is the same in the South where PDP’s very poor show in Lagos, Oyo, Rivers and other key states spell doom for the party.”
In South South and South East, Alake said the little gains made by the PDP in the two zones are very microscopic to compensate for the party’s huge shortfall in the South West.
APC added: “In the North Central, the APC has decimated all parties to a comfortable majority of votes in Kwara, Kogi and Niger. Our impressive show in Benue, FCT and Plateau is also pushing PDP into third position in these places.
“Taken together, we are very upbeat as the numbers do not lie. We call on the opposition to stop the macabre dance of a dying horse and embrace defeat honourably. There can still be honour in defeat.”
… Alleges Plot To Stop Presidential Poll With Court Order
The APC presidential campaign council also raised the alarm alleged stealthy attempt by the PDP and Labour Party to shop for a court order to prevent the INEC from announcing the result of last Saturday’s presidential and National Assembly polls.
According to the APC campaign team, the PDP and LP are hell-bent on scuttling the country’s democratic process.
It warned the judiciary to guide and guard against being used by the politicians to scuttle democracy and throw the country into turmoil, even as it asked those hatching the plot to remember the June 12 debacle.
Director of Public Affairs and chief spokesman of the campaign team, Festus Keyamo (SAN), stated this in Abuja yesterday while briefing journalists at the press conference.
Keyamo who is also minister of State, Labour and Employment said the APC campaign council has credible information that PDP and LP have asked some lawyers to go to court and stop the 2023 presidential poll just like June 12, 1993 presidential poll was scuttled. – Festus Keyamo.
He said, “We have it on good authority that the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party have perfected plans to finally scuttle our democracy and throw the country into constitutional crises by surreptitiously obtaining exparte court orders stopping the announcement of the Presidential Election results which they fear have gone against them.
“The walk-out they staged today at the National Collation Center is just a precursor to executing the plan
“Nigerians would recall that the June 12, 1993 debacle that brought Nigeria to its knees and caused our country international isolation was precipitated by a court injunction stopping the announcement of Presidential Election results. The court order was obtained by a certain Association for Better Nigeria headed then by one Chief Authur Nzeribe.
“This is exactly what Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr. Peter Obi want to foist on this nation again because of their inordinate ambitions. This is not surprising because both candidates were nowhere to be seen when ASIWAJU was fighting for the democracy we all enjoy today.
“However, we wish to draw the attention of Nigerians, the Judiciary and the world to the provisions of section 84 (15) of the Electoral Act which prohibits the grant of injunctions to stop the holding of elections (which includes the declaration of results).
“The section states: ‘Nothing in this section shall empower the courts to stop the holding of primaries or general elections under this Act pending the determination of a suit.”
Warning against a repeat of the June 12 debacle, Keyamo said, “We therefore wish to advise anyone who wishes to aid and encourage these candidates along this infamous part to remember the June 12 debacle.
“They may also wish to learn a lesson or two from President Muhammadu Buhari who resorted to the court of law in 2003, 2007 and 2011 when the same PDP ‘defeated’ him in those presidential elections in controversial circumstances. President Buhari, as a true statesman and democrat, never resorted to underhand tactics to declare himself President.”
The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, of the All Progressives Congress‘ presidential candidate, won the presidential elections held on Saturday in Oyo State.
Tinubu prevailed in the 33 local government areas of the state, placing Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate, in second place.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Labour Party, finished in a distant third place overall in the state.
This was as announced by the INEC returning officers for each local government areas in the state at the state collation centre, INEC Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, Oyo State from Sunday through Monday.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Rashid Bawa, has stated that he is not surprised by the preliminary results of the ongoing elections in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), announced results from some states with Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leading in the Ekiti State.
Reacting to this development on JoyNews, on Sunday, Mr Bawa said with hesitation that, he is not surprised at the present outcome.
“I hardly, would want to talk about it but I’m not too surprised. It’s expected. If you look at where the results is coming from”, he told host, Emefa Apawu.
“Nigeria is actually divided into geographical zones. We have the North, we have the South-South and we have the South-West. The South-South are largely the Igbo’s.
“The South-West are the Youba’s. And the North are the Hausa’s, the Hausa’s Fulani. Now these major tribes have got three leading candidates. Each candidate wherever he’s coming from, has his strength”, he explained.
Mr Bawa continued, “So when you look at most of the results, if it’s the North that is dropping in, you’ll realise that the candidate from the North gets most of the votes.
If it’s coming from the South-West, which is the Yoruba’s, then the candidate who is coming from that particular zone gets most of the votes. So this is how it is”.
Collation is presently underway, following the close of polls on Saturday, February 25.
Meanwhile, some aggrieved political parties have expressed their grievances with the conduct of the polls; alleging attempted rigging.
The elections have however been described as peaceful by many pundits and observers, despite isolated incidents of violence at some polling units.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has won in Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-voting Rufai’s districts.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate, received 134 votes, falling short of Tinubu’s 173 vote total.
In the same Polling Unit 024, Ward 07, Ungwan Sarki, Kaduna, Labour Party (LP) scored three votes, while Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) got 20 votes.
The All Progressives Congress, Presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu has won the presidential poll with a landslide victory in his polling unit with 33 votes.
The electoral officer of the Ward C Poloing Unit, 085, declared the result at the end of voting at exactly 2.45pm.
APC however led in all other polls in both senatorial and House of Representatives with a total of 324 registered votes and 43 accredited voters.
Labour scored 8 votes while Peoples Democratic Party PDP and Young People’s Party, scored 1 each in the presidential poll.
For Senatorial, APC scored 36, Zenith Labour Party, ZLP, 2, PDP, 4 and Action Democratic Congress, ADC, 1.
Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has expressed confidence that his hard work during the campaign will be rewarded by Nigerians with their votes.
Speaking to journalists after casting his vote at polling unit 085, ward 3, Alausa, Ikeja in Lagos State, Tinubu claimed to have worked harder than any other candidate in the country.
He stated, “I am very confident. I worked hard for it. I traverse the country sometimes four times and attended town hall meetings and various interest groups. I have attended to their request and I have worked hard than any other candidate in this country. I believe Nigeria will reward me, they will reward my hard work.”
Tinubu further declared that if elected, his government would be transformative and work hard to change the economic crisis in the country.
He acknowledged that the economic crisis was affecting the entire world and called for a recalibration.
The former Governor of Lagos State also urged Nigerians to remain respected democrats throughout the electioneering process.
Tinubu was accompanied by his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as he cast his vote amidst a mammoth crowd at the polling unit, which had a total of 324 voters. The atmosphere was reported to be calm as voters continued to exercise their franchise.
Information reaching the Independent Ghana is that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is allegedly engaged in vote-buying as Nigeria heads to the poll.
According to social media user @tamicute_mina, the party is distributing US dollars to people living in Ondo state, Irele local government,
Per reports, the APC is targeting the rural areas. The reason for this is currently unknown.
APC is sharing dollars in ondo state, irele local government. Their targets are the villages… This is not a fake news
A prominent presidential candidate named Peter Obi’s campaign manager was found guilty of money laundering by a Nigerian High Court in the nation’s capital, Abuja.
Doyin Okupe was found guilty of receiving more than $400,000 (£330,000) from a person without following the proper procedures in addition to other charges.
The presidential campaign of Mr. Obi is likely to suffer a serious setback as a result.
He has positioned himself as a departure from prior leaders and corrupted parties.
Just two months remain until the elections. Okupe, a crucial ally and the director-general of Mr. Obi’s campaign organisation.
Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, had charged Okupe in 2019 for money laundering and diversion of funds.
This was before he began working for Mr Obi. He was accused of accepting money in 2015 in excess of the amount that is allowed without having to declare it to the authorities.
Delivering the judgement on Monday, Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu said that Okupe had violated the Money Laundering Act, and sentenced him to two years in prison – though there is the option to pay a fine.
Neither Okupe’s lawyers nor the Obi campaign have yet reacted to the judgement.
Mr Obi is running without the backing of either of Nigeria’s two main political parties but he has cultivated a lot of support among young people.
Bola Tinubu, a two-time governor of Lagos state who is running for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February elections, has avoided the Nigerian media since winning the party’s ticket, instead delegating spokespeople to speak on his behalf.
In addition, in the run-up to the elections, he avoided presidential debates and town hall meetings with other candidates.
As a result, many people who tuned in to Mr Tinubu’s highly publicised appearance in London had high hopes of hearing him answer key policy questions.
How would he deal with widespread insecurity in Nigeria? How would he solve the country’s huge unemployment rate? How would he stop oil theft in the Niger Delta?
Thankfully, these questions were asked by journalists inside the packed hall but many were stunned as Mr Tinubu elected aides to respond on his behalf, a departure from the norm at the institute popular with those seeking elective offices in Nigeria.
A spokesman for the candidate of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described it as “an abdication of responsibility” while many others said it confirmed Mr Tinubu’s lack of physical and mental rigour to lead Africa’s most populous country.
But Dele Alake, his media adviser – who answered a question on his behalf at the event – said those criticising Mr Tinubu “are ignorant of the nuance and dynamics of leadership”.
“He wanted to show the calibre of his team,” he said.
The APC candidate did take some questions though, speaking publicly for the first time on controversies surrounding his age and work profile.
He confirmed he was 70 sayinghe was born in March 1952 – there had previously been a lot of speculation about his age.
He also said that he had been schooled at Chicago State University and later worked at financial consultancy firm Deloitte, both facts have been greatly disputed in the past.
Mr Tinubu is one of three frontrunners seeking to lead Nigeria next year.
