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Tag: governor

  • Mbah, Mutfwang not available as PDP govs meet in Zamfara

    Mbah, Mutfwang not available as PDP govs meet in Zamfara

    Two first term governors missing as Governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) meet in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.

    In attendance are the Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and the host Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal.
    However, Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah and his Plateau State counterpart, Caleb Mutfwang, were absent.

    It is not yet clear why they were not at the meeting as of the time of filing this report.
    The 7th strategic meeting is aimed at addressing key national and party issues.

    On the agenda are reports and updates from the National Zoning Committee, the PDP Constitution Review Committee, and the National Executive Committee (NEC).

    Preparations for the 2025 National Convention and a memo from the National Legislative Assembly caucus are also lined up for consideration.

    The governors are equally expected to deliberate on critical matters of national importance, including the recently conducted bye-elections and the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The meeting, holding at the Government House, Gusau, is part of ongoing efforts by PDP governors to strengthen internal party structures, review the political situation in the country, and also to strategize ahead of future elections.

    At the end of the meeting, the Forum resolved as follows:
    Appreciation to Party Supporters:
    The Forum expressed profound gratitude to PDP members and supporters nationwide for their steadfast loyalty in the face of intimidation and anti-democratic practices allegedly perpetrated by the APC-led Federal Government during the last bye-election.
    The forum commended the resilience of PDP leaders and members in overcoming orchestrated defections, stressing that such distractions cannot diminish the party’s grassroots appeal or the public’s yearning for affordable living and relative security as experienced under PDP-led administrations.

    The Governors reaffirmed their full support for the resolutions of the 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) held in July 2025 regarding the November 15 National Convention.
    The Forum Also urged members to resist attempts to derail the convention, describing the PDP as the only democratic institution and viable alternative for restoring Nigeria on the path of good governance and development.

    The Governors reiterate their commitment to rescuing the country, the Forum accused the APC of divisive governance and policies that continue to impose hardship on Nigerians.

    Insecurity and Security Reforms:
    The governors commended Zamfara State for initiatives that have significantly curbed insecurity but condemned continued killings in Katsina, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and other states.
    They called on the Federal Government to be more responsive to the protection of lives and property.

    The Forum condemned what it described as the over-militarization of the bye-elections, alleging widespread irregularities, vote buying, and violence, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending their votes.
    The governors thanked the Government and people of Zamfara State for hosting the meeting and commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his achievements in infrastructure, health, education, social services, and security.
    They also commiserated with the people of Zamfara on the passing of the Emir of Gusau and with the people of Oyo State over the loss of traditional rulers.

  • Aftermath of fire incident: Makinde dashes Ayefele ‘tear rubber’ SUV+Photos

    Aftermath of fire incident: Makinde dashes Ayefele ‘tear rubber’ SUV+Photos

    The governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde has dashed popular musician, Yinka Ayefele a brand new SUV few days after his radio station, Fresh FM got burnt.

    The musician, who obviously didn’t expect the gift, was seen singing songs of praises to God for his mighty works in his life.

    The musician who was in tears on Sunday during the fire incident was seen smiling graciously as he received the vehicle gift.

    He was said to have been visibly moved by emotions as the governor represented by the Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Otunba Ademola Ojo, handed over the keys to the SUV to him.

    Governor Makinde, during the presentation at the Ayefele Music House, Challenge, Ibadan, commended Ayefele for his resilience and contributions to the entertainment industry and media growth in Oyo State.

  • Guber ambition: “Ignore detractors, I’m solidly behind Tinubu’s 2027 reelection – Ex-Gov Ambode declares

    Guber ambition: “Ignore detractors, I’m solidly behind Tinubu’s 2027 reelection – Ex-Gov Ambode declares

    Ex-Governor of Lagos State, Akunwunmi Ambode has reacted to rumours linking to nursing another gubernatorial ambition in the state.

    He has also stated that he is solidly standing behind President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

    Amode made the reactions via a statement he released today, describing as false, report of his being interested in becoming governor come 2027 under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) aimed at causing distractions.

    “I wish to publicly reaffirm my absolute and unshakable loyalty to the APC, the party under which I had the privilege of serving Lagos State as governor in 2015, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my leader, mentor, and a tireless champion for Nigeria’s progress,” Ambode said.

    Describing the rumours as false, Ambode described Tinubu as a proven achiever and result-oriented leader who has achieved significant reforms in his first term.

    “His focus, determination, and inclusive governance style are restoring hope and delivering tangible results.

    I am convinced that, given another four years, Nigerians will have even greater reason to celebrate,” Ambode stated.

    Rallying support for the president come 2027, Ambode stated:

    “Let it be clear: I stand solidly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress. We will work together to ensure victory in 2027 to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to all Nigerians,”

    Ambode’s declaration comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the former governor making it clear that his political loyalty remains firmly with the APC and its leader.

  • Why no serving governor would be willing to join ADC – Spokesman

    Why no serving governor would be willing to join ADC – Spokesman

    National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Malam Bolaji Abdullahi has said no sittitng governor is willing to join the coalition because of the alleged intimidation by the Federal Government.

    Abdullahi said this at the third plenary session of the Northern Political Consultative Group (NPCG), in Abuja, on Saturday.

    At the programme which had as its theme: ‘Peace and social cohesion: A panacea to challenges of the North’, Abdullahi said the ADC remains open to everyone.

    “No serving governor would be willing to cross over because of the intimidation that they are facing,” he said.

    “We know what they are doing to them. Some of them who cannot jump to their party are saying we are endorsing their presidential candidate. No problem. But what you are seeing is a conspiracy against the Nigerian people.

    “The ADC welcomes everybody, but we are convinced that we are a movement that has the backing of the majority of Nigerians who are not happy with the direction this country is going.”

    On the 2027 Presidential Candidate, he said the ADC has not entered into any discussions about who will emerge.

    “We don’t have any favourite aspirants or candidates. We are not having any conversation at the moment,” he said.

    “Nobody has ever had any conversation about who will be the party’s flag bearer. We believe that it is too early in the day. Our focus now is to build a political party that is strong enough to deliver on the mission that we have set for ourselves.”

    Earlier, Babachir David Lawal, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who is also a member of the coalition, had said the ADC would rally round anyone who wins its presidential ticket.

    “The ADC as a political party is a party that is founded on democratic principles. We are going to conduct congresses and conventions to elect our representatives at the election. And whoever emerges—be it North, South, Central, West—whoever emerges at either the congresses or at the convention, ADC will support it, and the Northern Political Consultative Group will support that decision.”

    So far, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, have indicated interest in the ADC presidential ticket.

    The coalition has vowed to use every lawful means to unseat President Bola Tinubu, but dismissing their threat, Tinubu described the group as a “Coalition of confusion”.

  • SAD! Ex-Plateau deputy Governor is dead

    SAD! Ex-Plateau deputy Governor is dead

    Ex-Plateau State Deputy Governor Professor Sonnie Gwanle Tyoden has died.

    He passed away at the age of 74, though the cause of his death was not confirmed as at the time this report was filed.

    Tyoden served as the deputy governor of Plateau State from 2015 to 2023, working under Governor Simon Lalong during the administration of the All Progressives Congress.

    Before his time in government, he was the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, a role he held between June 2006 and June 2011.

    Born on September 22, 1950, Tyoden was a professor of political science known for his work in academia and politics.

    His contributions to the development of Plateau State were well-known, and his death has drawn attention across the state and beyond.

  • Let your performance speak for you, Tinubu tells Governors

    Let your performance speak for you, Tinubu tells Governors

    President Bola Tinubu has advised the 36 Governors to allow their performance speak for them in their developmental strides.

    He advised the governors to focus on delivering tangible results to their people, asserting that performance, not popularity, is the true test of leadership.

    Speaking during a two-day working visit to Katsina State, the President charged Governors to “let the people be at the heart of your programmes,” while dismissing distractions from what he termed “armchair critics.”

    “Your hard work and concrete achievements will answer any criticism. Ignore distractions — your results will speak for you,” Tinubu stated at the commissioning of major infrastructure projects.

    Among the projects unveiled during the visit was the 24-kilometre Eastern Bypass Road, which stretches from Dutsin-ma Road through Kano and Daura Roads to Yandaki in Kaita Local Government Area. The project was completed in just 18 months under the administration of Governor Dikko Radda.

    Tinubu also inaugurated the Katsina Agricultural Mechanised Centre, a key initiative aimed at boosting farming productivity and transforming agriculture in the state.

    Commending Governor Radda’s performance across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, Tinubu said, “Significant progress has been made in less than two years.”

    The President acknowledged the insecurity challenges facing the region but praised the Katsina governor’s courage and resilience. “We have decided for peace and stability. I know you face terrorism and banditry attacks in the state, but you have shown determination and courage to move Katsina State forward. You will not walk alone. The Federal Government will be with you,” he assured.

    Tinubu emphasised that hunger and poverty remain the most urgent threats to national stability, underscoring his administration’s commitment to agricultural development. “The economy is sailing in the right trajectory. We are witnessing an effort to banish hunger. Small and large-scale farming will be encouraged. Once we liberate ourselves from hunger, we will appreciate peace and harmony,” he said.

    Highlighting the importance of adopting modern methods, the President stated: “The old style of agriculture is gone. We must invest in mechanisation and water management. Agriculture is the one of our progress and must be for all.”

    He also revealed plans to revive the Bank of Agriculture to provide accessible financing for farmers across Nigeria. “The Bank of Agriculture is being revitalised. When resuscitated, the bank will make funds available for large, medium and small-scale farming,” he said.

    Calling on other States to follow Katsina’s lead, Tinubu noted: “You have introduced a great, day ahead progressive movement in Katsina State by just tilling the land and putting it to use. Farming will be our source of prosperity and growth. We must remove ourselves from reliance on oil and commit to agriculture.”

    He concluded his visit by thanking former governors Ibrahim Shema and Aminu Bello Masari, along with other political leaders in the state, for their warm reception and continued contributions.

    “Thank you for the great honour you have given me. Your coming to the airport to receive me made me feel so welcome. I am your son, and I am one of you. This is homecoming, and Katsina is home — home to progress, development, and freedom for good,” Tinubu said.

  • SAD! CRS ex-MILAD, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu Rtd, dies at 84

    SAD! CRS ex-MILAD, Major General Paul Ufuoma Omu Rtd, dies at 84

    Former Cross River State Governor, Major General Paul Omu, rtd, is dead.

    Omu died at the age of 84.

    The family in a statement on Wednesday signed by Oghenekome Ufuoma Omu confirmed his passage stating that:

    “With gratitude to God for a life of distinguished service and accomplishments, the family of General Paul Ufuoma Omu (Rtd), of Igbide, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, announces his passing on April 29, 2025, at the age of 84.

    “Maj-General Paul Ufuoma Omu was a family man, patriot, statesman, soldier, and community leader whose life was marked by unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria and his beloved Isoko Nation.

    “A distinguished career Military Officer, General Omu rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, serving with honor and distinction.

    He held various strategic command and administrative positions, including serving as Military Governor of the South-Eastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States) from July 1975 to July 1978. During his tenure, he initiated and implemented critical infrastructural and policy reforms that laid the foundation for the region’s growth.

    In 1985, Gen. Omu was appointed Commnader Command and Staff College and a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council, the highest ruling body in Nigeria as at then.

    In the political landscape, General Omu played a key role in Nigeria’s transition to democracy. He was appointed Chairman of the Constitutional Conference Commission in 1994, helping shape the constitutional discourse that would influence Nigeria’s return to civil rule. His leadership, insight, and patriotism earned him national respect and admiration.

    In September 2009, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua appointed Gen. Omu Chairman of the 10-member Governing Board of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).

    Beyond his military and political service, General Omu remained deeply committed to the development of his homeland, Isoko Nation.

    As President of the Isoko Development Union (IDU) between 2014 to 2015, he championed unity, education, and economic advancement, leaving behind a legacy of community empowerment and inclusive development. His tenure was marked by diplomacy, visionary leadership, and relentless advocacy for the rights and progress of the Isoko people.

    Maj-General Omu is survived by his beloved wife, Senator Chief (Mrs) Stella Omu, six children, beloved siblings, numerous grandchildren, and a grateful nation that mourns the passing of one of its finest sons.

    Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.

  • Okpebholo suggests community to produce next Governor in Bayelsa

    Okpebholo suggests community to produce next Governor in Bayelsa

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo has said that the people of Ayakoro community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa deserves to produce the next governor of Bayelsa.

    Okpebholo spoke as a guest during the 67th anniversary of Ayakoro Annual Festival: (Eyal Obeyin) 2025 at Ayakoro community on Sunday.

    NAN reports that the Edo governor served as the chairman of the occasion.

    He said, the massive development and Operation light up Niger Delta is as a result of pragmatic efforts of the Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku an illustrious son of Ayakoro community.

    “When I saw the underdevelopment in my community, I asked God to raised us a man that will bring development to us and today I am the governor.

    “For the great things Dr Ogbuku is doing in this community and the entire Niger Delta, Ayakoro community deserves to produce the next governor of Bayelsa state.

    “I have learned something new today in this community and I will also take it home,” he said.

    In his goodwill message, Dr Samuel Ogbuku who is the Co-Chief Host and the Deputy Paramount ruler of Ayakoro community said, the celebration of the festival was to celebrate their forefathers who due to coastal erosion, relocated to the present place.

    He commended the ancestors for their foresight in relocating to the present site to save future generations from ravaging coastal erosion.

    “I believe they saw something at that time that made them cross to the present location and since then prosperity has continue to be upon Ayakoro community,” Ogbuku said.

    Ogbuku attributed the achievements NDDC is making to collaboration from the stakeholders.

    “One thing is sure that we will always do more if our communities across Niger Delta can partner with us by ensuring that they will protect the facilities we are building in the communities.

    “This facilities are going to be enjoyed by the communities and the people of the communities should take ownership of the facilities. Sometimes we feel bad how some facilities build in a community is been vandalised.

    “So, I will appeal that whatever facilities that has been brought to you, guide it jealously.

    “We don’t like a situation where the communities make things difficult for the contractors and if the contractors decide to leave, it’s your community that will suffer.

    “For communities that have challenges with the contractors, please come to us. Do not frustrate the contractors, we can handle it because NDDC wants to spread development across the entire Niger Delta,”  Ogbuku said.

    He said the NDDC board had received several commendations from the people and even from Mr. President.

    “We are not carried away by those accolades rather they spur us to do more. It’s a challenge to do more for the people of Niger Delta” Ogbuku said.

    In his keynote address, the Senator representing Bayelsa East Senatorial District, Sen. Benson Agadaga commended the NDDC for sterling performance.

    He said, with the development going on and the operation light up Niger Delta by NDDC: “We in the Senate, we are pleased with your achievements and commitment towards the development of the Niger Delta”.

    He extolled the virtues of Ayakoro forefathers who had in their time solved what would have been generational problems.

    “I want to thank Ayakoro people for keeping the festival alive since its inception and I want to encourage them to continue with it”, the Senator said.

    Earlier in his welcome address, Paramount ruler of Ayakoro community, His Royal Highness, Righteous Inegbagha said, Ayakoro Annual Festival called Eyal Obeyin was born out of the need to honour as well as immortalizing the founding fathers of blessed memories.

    According to him, the founding fathers were the leaders of the time who by their visionary leadership embarked and accomplished such a great feat.

    He noted that the feat was historic settlement of the entire people of Ayakoro community on Feb 12,1958, from the old settlement to the present day Ayakoro.

    The traditional ruler used the medium to thank Edo state governor, who chaired the occasion and the MD/CEO of NDDC Ogbuku and other dignitaries that attended the ceremony.

    NAN reports that the festival featured traditional dance displays, boat regatta, traditional wrestling competitions amongst other entertainment activities between Friday and Sunday.

  • EMMANUEL AZIKEN: New perspective on suspension of mining activities on the plateau

    EMMANUEL AZIKEN: New perspective on suspension of mining activities on the plateau

    By Emmanuel Aziken

    The temptation to flex federal muscle following the decision of the Plateau State Government to suspend mining activities in the state has again brought to focus the undercurrents that aggravate Nigeria’s federation.

    Governor Caleb Mutfwang moving forward in his determined efforts in lifting Plateau State from the level he met it has been able to translate good governance in diverse sectors including healthcare, road infrastructure, scaling up the welfare of citizen through such incentives as subsidised transportation and the rejuvenation of the agricultural economy in the state.

    Farmers have been particularly empowered through the provisions of tractors and the provision of farming inputs that have now revitalised the hopes of local farmers.

    Undoubtedly what may have further sharpened the eyes of critical observers in Plateau was the Mutfwang administration’s empowerment of the youth population with knowledge and skill on modern farming practises. This laudable move has won the approbation of the African Development Bank, AfDB which is now partnering with the Plateau State Government to establish a Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone.

    As a corollary to the agreement with the AfDP is training of youths in agricultural practise including the training of 600 youths under Operation Rainbow for intelligence gathering and sharing.

    Farmers in the last 18 months have also been returning to their farms albeit with cautious optimism following the synergy weaved between the state government and the military authorities. The cloud of distrust between the people and the military that existed in the eight years before the advent of the Mutfwang administration has ben eviscerated with an affectionateness that pervades across the citizenry. However, not totally.

    Here and there, especially in deep rural areas, the bad guys continue to nibble at the good works of the administration with a threat of pulling down the system.

    Nowhere is this threat more manifest than through criminals engaged in illegal mining activities in the state. Because they have failed to get the requisite registration from the Federal Government, these criminals have unfolded themselves through several criminal activities to beat the long arms of the law.

    As birds of the same feather flock together, these illegal miners have also congregated with other criminals to exacerbate other illegalities in the state. It is in this wise that Governor Mutfwang following consultations with stakeholders in the state took the decision to suspend all forms of mining activities in the state.

    The situation on the Plateau was especially compounded by the fact that the registered miners were grossly overwhelmed by illegal miners who constituted the bulk of those engaged in mining activities in the state. Because they were not registered, they hardly could be checked.

    Studies have also shown that the threats to the security of the state are more prevalent in mining areas of the state. It would be recalled that the Federal Government in the same vein towards addressing the spate of banditry similarly banned mining activities in Zamfara State.

    Even more, many of these illegal miners are also non-Nigerians.

    Given the fact that mining activities are under the exclusive list, it is tempting for constitutional experts to question the decision of the Plateau State Government to suspend mining activities in the state.

    However, the fact that Governor Mutfwang and President Bola Tinubu have the same goals of economic viability under a peaceful ambience there is bound to be no conflict except war drums coming from the quarter of mischief makers.

    Besides the instrumentality of the Land Use Act and his apron as Chief Security Officer of the state, the backing of stakeholders including traditional rulers is also salutary.

    There need be no discord on this positive step towards regaining the initiative on mining from the assorted gangs of criminals who have held the state prostrate in the course of their illegalities.

    The time is now for Plateau State collaborating with the federal administration to redefine the pace and pattern of mining in the state for the benefit of all.

    Emmauel Aziken is publisher of GWG.ng

  • Ladoja’s role in my emergence as governor in 2019 – Makinde reveals

    Ladoja’s role in my emergence as governor in 2019 – Makinde reveals

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde on Wednesday acknowledged that Sen. Rashidi Ladoja, a former governor of the state, played a critical role in his emergency as governor in 2019.

    Makinde stated this while speaking on Wednesday in Ibadan during one of the ceremonies marking Ladoja 80th birthday at the celebrant’s residence.

    The governor said Ladoja, who is also the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, midwifed the process that led to his emergence as governor in 2019.

    He said that his political trajectory could therefore not be completed without Ladoja.

    “We may have some political differences. When I became governor in 2019, you (Ladoja) are the one that midwifed the process.

    “And I beg you that whenever I have offended you, I have begged you.

    “This is not the only thing, and sincerely we will re-align and there will be development,” Makinde said.

    Makinde said that witnessing the 80th birthday celebration made the day a special day for him and described Ladoja as a leading light in Ibadanland.

    He said the former governor still have a big role to play in the development of the state and people of the state would continue to look forward to his leadership.

    NAN reports that Muslim and Christian clerics, as well as traditionalists, offered prayers at the occasion for the celebrant.

    Dignitaries present also at the occasion included former Deputy Govenor of Oyo State, Rauf Olaniyan, Sen. Sarafadeen Alli, Sen. Fatai Buhari, politicians, businessmen and women, among others.