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Tag: Governorship Election

  • Tight security in Ekiti ahead of governorship election

    Security operatives have tightened security in Ekiti ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, according to reports.

    Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Police, Nigerian Army, and other law enforcement agencies were observed on patrol in the state capital, Ado-Ekiti, and other parts of the state ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

    A correspondent, who monitored security preparations for the election in Ekiti, also saw personnel of the NSCDC and Police at some strategic points in different parts of the state keeping vigil to ensure a hitch free election.

    The NSCDC had deployed no fewer than 9,747 personnel while the Nigerian police deployed over 17,000 men in the state to ensure adequate security.

    A resident in Ado-Ekiti, Mr Joshua Aremu, in an interview, described as impressive the security personnel deployed in the state for the election.

    He said that the massive security deployment had allayed the initial apprehension of residents over the peaceful conduct of the election.

    “I hope their presence encourages people to come out and vote because we all need to vote in all forthcoming elections for those we feel are fit for the respective positions,” Aremu said.

    Also, a trader, Mrs Kemi Odesanya, said that the presence of security operatives and others for the election in the state had led to increased sales.

    She said since the arrival of visitors and security operatives to the state, sales had increased, “which implies more money for all traders”.

    Odesanya said that she intends to perform her civic obligation by coming out to vote in the governorship election because the state deserves a leader worthy of the position.

    NAN

  • Female candidate picks APP governorship ticket in Delta

    Mrs Annabel Cosmas has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Action Peoples Party (APP) in Delta State at its primary election unopposed.

    Mr Fred Akpewe, the Returning Officer at the party’s primary, declared Cosmas the winner of the poll after the necessary formalities on Tuesday in Asaba.

    Akpewe, who was also the Chairman of the party’s Electoral Committee in the state, said the election had attracted delegates from the 25 Local Government Areas of the state.

    He said that Cosmas, who was a sole aspirant at the exercise, had her nomination affirmed by the delegates.

    However, the candidate, thanked the delegates, the party’s leadership and other stakeholders in the state for giving her the opportunity.

  • Ex- Deputy Gov. Aliyu wins APC governorship ticket in Sokoto State

    Ex- Deputy Gov. Aliyu wins APC governorship ticket in Sokoto State

    Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, ex- Sokoto State Deputy Governor and immediate past Secretary of Police Trust Fund, has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Sokoto State.

    Aliyu polled 1,080 votes out of 1,182 votes cast at the primary election, contested by six aspirants.

    The Election Committee Chairman, Alhaji Aliyu Kyari, said Sen. Ibrahim Gobir scored 36 votes, Amb. Faruk Malami-Yabo 27 votes, and former Minister of Transport, Alhaji Yusuf Suleiman, 16 votes and 23 invalid votes.

    Kyari listed other aspirants as Abubakar Abdullahi 1 vote and Sen. Umar Gada, 0 vote.

    The exercise started about 4 p.m. on Thursday and ended about 11.40 a.m. on Friday.

  • 2023 guber elections: Candidates emerge for APC

    2023 guber elections: Candidates emerge for APC

    Some candidates have emerged for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the gubernatorial primary elections conducted by the party ahead of the 2023 general election.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports candidates have so far emerged for Delta State, Lagos State, Ogun State, Zamfara State, Rivers State, Nasarawa State, Oyo State, Yobe State and Borno State.

    Buni emerges Yobe APC guber candidate unopposed

    Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe has clinched the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial ticket unopposed for 2023 election in the state.

    Announcing the result in Damaturu, the Returning Officer, Umar Kareto, said Buni, the sole candidate in the election, was declared the winner and returned elected.

    He said 890 delegates were accredited for the election and 825 votes cast, adding that 805 votes were valid and 20 votes invalid.

    In his acceptance speech, Buni thanked the delegates and his party for finding him worthy of the ticket for the second time.

    He promised to consolidate on his development projects and programmes if re-elected as governor.

    Toye Cole emerges Rivers APC governorship flag bearer

    The Rivers chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gave its governorship ticket to Mr Tony Cole in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

    Cole polled 986 votes to win the ticket at the party’s primary election, having defeated Mr Ojukai Flagamakere, who placed second with 190 votes and Mr Sukonte Davids who got 49 votes.

    Mr Larry Ode, the Returning Officer at the election declared Cole the winner and said other contestants, Mr Michael West got 43 votes, while Mr Benald Miku got two votes and Sen. Magnus Abe, one vote.

    In his acceptance speech, Cole expressed gratitude to Mr Chibuike Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation, for believing that he had the capacity to give good governance to the people of Rivers.

    He also thanked all the delegates who also believed in his capacity.

    Cole called on Sen. Abe and other former aspirants to join hands and work with him to deliver Rivers to the APC at the 2023 general elections.

    Earlier, Sen. Abe said he did not withdraw from the contest as earlier rumoured, but decided not to participate because the indirect primary election option chosen did not meet the standard of the process.

    Omo-Agege picks APC guber ticket in Delta

    The Deputy Senate President, Chief Ovie Omo-Agege has been elected as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta.

    Omo-Agege, who polled a total of 1,190 votes, was returned unopposed by a total of 1,235 accredited delegates of the party at the APC governorship primaries held on Thursday in Asaba.

    The event which was held at the premises of the Federal College of Education (FCE), Asaba, saw the deputy senate president emerg as the sole aspirant in the primaries.

    Annoucing the results, the APC Returning Officer, Mrs Oyibo Nwaneri, declared Omo-Agege as winner,  haven  polled majority of the votes cast.

    On his victory, Omo-Agege, expressed joy over the smooth conduct of the primaries and thanked his supporters and the entire APC family in Delta.

    “Today, the APC in Delta has spoken with one voice. We may have had our differences in the past, but we have been able to reconcile ourselves.

    “With my emergence as the party flagbearer for the 2023 governorship in Delta , the APC is very determined to take over the reign of affairs in Delta.

    “And we are prepared to achieve that with the support of our members and the people of Delta.”

    The party primaries was attended by some notable chieftains of the APC in Delta,  including Sen.  Peter Nwaoboshi and Chief O’tega Emerhor, a former governorship candidate of the APC in Delta.

    Others were Mrs Ngozi Olejeme, a former PDP governorship aspirant who recently defected  to the APC among others.

    Abiodun wins Ogun APC guber ticket

    Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has been declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2023 governorship election.

    Abiodun contested the primary election with five other aspirants; Abdulkabir Akinlade, Biyi Otegbeye, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, Owodunni Opayemi and Remi Bakare.

    The exercise was held at the main bowl of the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta on Thursday.

    The election was supervised by a five-man Electoral Committee from the National Headquarters headed by Wale Ohu.

    Announcing the results of the election after delegates from the 20 Local Government areas had cast their votes, Ohu said Abiodun scored 1,168 votes while other aspirants had nil.

    He said that 1,180 delegates were accredited for the election, saying that 1,170 votes cast with two voided votes.

    “Prince Dapo Abiodun, having scored the majority votes cast, is hereby declare the winner of the APC governorship primary election in Ogun state .

    “He is hereby declared the governorship candidate of APC to stand in the 2023 governorship election in the state,” Ohu said.

    In his acceptance speech, Abiodun promised to continue with the massive turnaround of the state with various infrastructural development.

    He appreciated the people of the state for the continuous support and prayers.

    The governor also commended members of the electoral committee, saying that they have conducted a free and fair election.

    Matawalle emerges APC governorship candidate in Zamfara

    Gov. Bello Matawalle of Zamfara on Thursday emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in the state.

    The election of Matawalle was unopposed. The 735 delegates that participated in the election were all accredited.

    They were drawn from the 147 political wards of 14 local government areas of the state.

    Matawalle’s emergence would give him the opportunity to contest for the second term as governor of the state in the 2023 general elections.

    Declaring Matawalle as the winner, Chairman, Committee for Governorship Primary Elections in the state,  Babagana Tijjani-Banki, said out of 735 delegates, 733 votes were validly cast.

    Tijjani-Banki commended the delegates for showing maturity and good conduct during the election

    “Based on the power vested on me as Chairman of the APC governorship primary election in the state, I am happy to declare Bello Matawalle winner of the APC governorship candidate for the 2023 general elections,” he said.

    In his acceptance speech, Matawalle described his election as peaceful and historic.

    “I wish to express my gratitude to Almighty Allah for attending and completing this exercise.

    “I commend our delegates and all stakeholders of the party for the successful primary election,” Matawalle said.

    He called on the delegates of the party to participate actively in all National Assembly primaries scheduled to hold on Saturday and Sunday.

    Matawalle promised to continue to provide meaningful development in the state if re-elected for  the second term.

    According to him, the secret of political party’s success is based on unity, peace and stability, saying the recent reconciliation of the party members also played a major role.

    “I commend the former governors, Mahmud Shinkafi and Abdul’aziz Yari, Sen Kabiru Marafa and other stakeholders’ for their support and cooperation.

    “There is  unity peace and stability in the party,” he said

    The primary election was monitored by the official of the  Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led by Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state Prof. Sa’idu Babura.

    Sule wins Nasarawa APC guber ticket

    Gov Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary election in his bid for a second term in office.

    Dr Ahmed Ibeto, Chairman of the party’s governorship primary election committee, announced Sule as winner of the election conducted on Thursday in Lafia.

    Ibeto said that the incumbent governor polled 698 votes to defeat Dr Fatima Abdullahi, who got three votes.

    “With this result, as far as we are concerned and as my position as chairman of this primary committee, I hereby declare Abdullahi Sule as the winner of the governorship  primary election,” he said.

    Sule, while reacting to the outcome of the election, lauded the peaceful conduct of the exercise and  thanked the delegates for their patience.

    He expressed hope that the general election in 2023 would also be peaceful as the  primaries in the state.

    The governor appreciated his opponent, Abdullahi, for her zeal and courage  to vie for the governorship seat saying it would encourage women, especially in northern Nigeria, to seek to occupy elective positions.

    “My happiness is that you have gone through the exercise and have gained the experience,  now I have no doubt in my mind that should you come out in 2027, the performance will be different,” he said.

    Shortly after the election, the governor’s opponent congratulated him for the resounding victory at the polls.

    She explained that she joined the race as a face of hope for the youth and women, especially the Northern Nigerian woman whose participation in politics has been poor and whose involvement in governance has been low, despite being the highest voters especially in Nasarawa State.

    “I will continue to project myself to encourage women across the country to aim higher and not to be limited by anything whatsoever,” she said.

    Abdullahi pledged her support and that of her teeming supporters  towards the victory of the governor during the general election.

    Sanwo -Olu wins Lagos APC ticket to run for 2nd term

    Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has clinched the APC ticket to run for second term in the 2023 governorship election in the state.

    Sanwo-Olu,  a  sole aspirant at the primaries held on Thursday at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, was endorsed via voting   by delegates at the  conference.

    Announcing the result of the election, the Chairman of the APC Electoral Committee/Returning Officer, Alhaji Adamu Yuguda said Sanwo-Olu scored 1,170 votes to emerge  winner of the primaries.

    He said 1,225 ad hoc delegates were expected at the special state congress to choose the party’s governorship candidate  for the 2023 election while 1, 198 delegates were accredited across the 20 Local Government Areas of the state.

    Yuguda said: “For those who have been murmuring , we have three aspirants that purchased forms in Abuja. Three of them went for screening, one was cleared and two were disqualified.

    “The total number of voters are 1, 225; total number of accredited votes – 1,198; the total votes cast – 1,182, the total number of valid votes -1,170 while the invalid votes are 12.

    “So, the candidate with the highest number of votes is Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu who scored 1,170 votes.

    “I, Alhaji Adamu Shettima Yuguda, the Chairman, governorship primary committee in the 2023 APC primary in Lagos state, hereby declare  Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu the winner, haven  scored the highest number of votes.”

    Earlier, Yuguda revealed that only Sanwo-Olu was cleared to participate in Thursday’s special state congress by the party’s screening committee and the appeal committee.

    The other two aspirants for the topmost seat that were not cleared according to Yuguda, were a former commissioner, Mr Wale Oluwo, and a former permanent secretary, Abdul-Ahmed Mustapha.

    In his acceptance speech, Sanwo-Olu appreciated the electoral committee, supporting staff and all delegates for finding him worthy to be the party’s flag bearer.

    The governor applauded the Lagos State Executive  of the APC -led by Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, all cabinet members, party faithful and observers for their efforts and support.

    “Our delegates have defied the rain. They have spoken and they have spoken well.

    “This is affirmation that you want us to continue and we will not disappoint you.

    “In all facet, Lagos residents should expect a lot more from us. We will not  disappoint or betray the confidence reposed in us.

    “I want to say that indeed, this is the beginning of bigger work that we have for Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    The event was conducted under heavy security presence and the watch of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    2023: Zulum wins APC guber primary election in Borno

    Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governirship primary election in the state.

    Announcing the result, Chairman, APC Primary Election Committee, Mr Uba Maigari, declared Zulum winner of the election at the end of the exercise held on Thursday in Maiduguri.

    He said the governor emerged unopposed being the only aspirant in the election.

    Maigari said that 1,422 delegates were accredited while 1,411 voted and endorsed Zulum through voice vote.

    In his acceptance speech, Zulum thanked the delegates and other stakeholders for the confidence reposed in him and promised not to disappoint them.

    He also pledged to address security challenges bedeviling the state through adoption of proactive measures to fast track rehabilitation, reconstruction and resettlement programme in the state.

    Oyo APC governorship primary postponed

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Oyo State scheduled to hold at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan on Thursday has been postponed.

    The primary was postponed by the APC Primary Committee led by Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi.

    There are six governorship aspirants in the state, namely Sen. Teslim Folarin, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), Dr Azeez Adeduntan, Mr Akeem Agbaje and Mr Hakeem Alao.

    At about 5.00 p.m. all members of the Afikuyomi-led committee, state executives, some National Assembly members and aspirants were already at the venue.

    The committee members, aspirants, delegates and other supporters present left the venue around 6.00 p.m.

    It was later revealed that the primary had been postponed to Friday due to influx of non-delegates into the venue and security reasons.

    Earlier, Afikuyomi had appealed to all party members and supporters who were in the stadium to move out for the committee to accredit delegates into the venue.

    The committee chairman had also called on the aspirants to speak to their supporters which they all did.

    All efforts to get the committee chairman and members to speak on the postponement proved abortive.

  • FLASH: Sanwo-Olu knows fate as APC guber primary commences in Lagos

    FLASH: Sanwo-Olu knows fate as APC guber primary commences in Lagos

    The governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced in Lagos State to decide if incumbent Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will get the party’s ticket to contest for a second tenure term in office in the 2023 general election.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the Lagos APC governorship primary is currently held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (Onikan Stadium) with 1,198 State delegates already officially accredited.

    At 2:00 p.m., voting had commenced in the primary election, which was slated for 10 a.m., amidst tight security, and under the watch of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The voting commenced with delegates from Agege Local Government.

    In his remarks after the accreditation exercise, Alhaji Adamu Yuguda,  Chairman of the five-man committee, said that 1,198 delegates were accredited out of 1,225 ad hoc delegates being expected.

    Meanwhile, out of the three contestants for the APC governorship ticket, only the incumbent,  Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu was on the ground at the time of the commencement of the special congress.

    Two other aspirants in the race,  a former Commissioner, Mr Wale Oluwo, and a former Permanent Secretary,  Abdul-Ahmed Mustapha, were yet to arrive at the time of filing this report.

    On the presence of only Gov. Sanwo-Olu out of the three contestants for the APC ticket, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the party Chairman in Lagos state, said that this showed the seriousness of the aspirant seeking the mandate of the people to rule the state.

    Ojelabi said that the three contestants were all aware of the primaries, where the flag-bearer would emerge.

    “I wouldn’t know why other aspirants are not here. This process is being driven by the party’s national secretariat,” he said.

    Ojelabi said that the orderly and peaceful atmosphere of the primaries in the state was a symbol of what APC represented.

    Earlier, the governorship primary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for Lagos State had produced the Lead Visioner of Lagos4Lagos Movement, Dr Olajide Adediran (Jandor) as the guber flag bearer of the party.

  • Shehu Sani loses PDP guber ticket, hails 2 delegates who voted for him

    Shehu Sani loses PDP guber ticket, hails 2 delegates who voted for him

    Former Senator who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, Shehu Sani on Wednesday lost in the race to win the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket for Kaduna State.

    Sani lost the governorship ticket to Mr Isa Ashiru, who emerged as the governorship candidate of the PDP in Kaduna State for the 2023 governorship election.

    The Returning Officer, Mr Raymond Dabo, a former Plateau State PDP Chairman, announced the result after the party’s gubernatorial primary election.

    Dabo said Ashiru polled a total of 414 votes to defeat Sani Sidi who got 260 votes to pick the party’s ticket.

    He said Muktar Yero placed third with 28 votes while others including Sani Abbas, Haruna Sa’eed, Shehu Sani recorded 15, 11 and 2 votes respectively.

    The returning officer, however, announced 30 invalid votes.

    However, Sani has hailed the two delegates who voted for him despite his loss at the People’s Democratic Party Primary election.

    “The Kaduna PDP Governorship primaries have been concluded. I lost and Honourable Isah Ashiru won. I wish to congratulate him. Two Delegates voted for me without giving them a dime; unfortunately, I don’t know who they are, so that I can appreciate these clean votes. We look forward.

    “Two delegates voted for me without paying them kobo But I have received over 300 calls from Different Delegates claiming that they are the two that voted for me and want to come and see me,” Sani tweeted.

  • Guber ticket: PDP, Amori, Augoye, others congratulate Oborevwori

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State and chieftains of the party have congratulated Chief Sheriff Oborevwori after the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly clinched the governorship ticket of the party to contest the 2023 elections.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Oborevwori defeated Olorogun David Edevbie and other aspirants who contested the gubernatorial ticket of the PDP for Delta after polling 590 votes from delegates on Wednesday.

    Among those who have sent congratulatory messages to the Speaker are the State immediate past Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye, PDP candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District, Ighoyota Amori and the Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Entrepreneurship Development, Mr Ayemidejor Austine.

    Augoye congratulates Oborevwori

    Okpe PDP State House of Assembly candidate and former commissioner for works, Delta state Chief James Augoye has congratulated the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his emergence as Delta Guber Candidate at the just concluded PDP Governorship primary at Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba.

    Augoye described Oborevwori’s victory as the will of God and that of Deltans, noting that Oborevwori is a seasoned politician and indeed a great son of Urhobo Nation.

    “Am convinced that Oborevwori will deliver the dividends of democracy and continue from the good work of His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa come 2023. Oborevwori’s victory is victory for Delta Central and indeed victory all Deltans,” Augoye said.

    Amori congratulates Oborevwori, describes guber primaries as win for Urhobo

    The National Chairman, Delta Central 2023 code named DC-23 and elected Peoples Democratic Party’s Senatorial candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District, Chief Sen Ighoyota Amori JP has congratulated Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as he emerged as the party Gubernatorial Candidate in Delta State at the just concluded PDP Gubernatorial primary election in Asaba.

    Chief Amori described his emergence as a victory for the good people of Delta Central who through DC-23 leadership preached the message of equity, fairness and justice by upholding the zoning principle which favoured the Urhobo ethnic group of Delta Central Senatorial District.

    “Today is a great day in the political history of Urhobo Nation and Delta State. Our great party gathered in one voice to returned and uphold the existing power rotation which favoured Delta Central Senatorial District in the state.

    “I am extremely elated as our efforts going round the entire three Senatorial Districts including; Delta Central,Delta South and North was never in vain. DC-23 leadership worked thoughtfully and pragmatically in ensuring the Principle of Equity, Fairness and Justice formed the whole essence of our political system in Delta State.

    “Our Governor His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, party leaders and faithfuls,have demonstrated great leadership and genuineness by making it possible for Urhobo man of Delta Central to emerged as the party flag- bearer.

    “This victory is not just for Chief Oborevwori,but for entire Urhobo Nation, making it possible for the actualization of Urhobo man Governor which is DC-23 primary goal in Delta State.

    “On behalf of DC-23 leadership,I congratulate our newly elected Governorship candidate,Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and Urhobo Nation of Delta Central.

    “Special appreciation to our Governor,His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and entire PDP leadership in the State.

    “I hereby appeal to all aspirants across Delta Central and Delta State in general to work in harmony as members of one political family, to deliver all our candidates in the general election,” Amori said.

    2023: Delta PDP congratulate Oborevwori, other victorious candidates after successful primaries

    The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) Delta State, heartily congratulates Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, who emerged victorious, as our Governorship Candidate for the 2023 elections, after a keenly contested and hugely successful contest.

    The Delta PDP guber primary showcased an array of distinguished Deltans who we are proud to identify with, as members of our great party, and in the end, there was no Victor and no Vanquished. PDP is the WINNER.

    We also warmly congratulate all our other victorious candidates at the House of Assembly, Federal Constituencies, and Senatorial Districts primaries, who braved all the odds, to emerge victorious at the end of a robust and very competitive primary election all round.

    Now that the primaries have been successfully concluded, we want to applaud all our Aspirants who gave their best to ensure that the Delta PDP primaries were conducted in a peaceful, rancour-free atmosphere, devoid of acrimony and bitterness.

    We are proud to declare that our primaries for all elective positions, was a wonderful family affair, conducted in the true spirit of sportsmanship, in which everybody is a winner and the party is stronger and more united than ever before.

    While appealing to all participants in our primaries to embrace each other and join hands with the successful candidates to ensure that we deliver a comprehensive and overwhelming campaign ahead of the 2023 elections, we equally wish to urge and enjoin all successful candidates, to extend the olive branch and their hand of fellowship to all party members, especially their co-contestants, accommodate them in all campaign process and carry everybody along, as we march towards ultimate victory.

    Delta PDP is one big, happy family, and like we had earlier predicated before the primaries, our loyal and committed members have once again proven, beyond doubt, that Delta PDP is a united family and it has ended in praise for one and all.

    As we prepare to hit the campaign trail, covering every Local Government, Ward, and Unit in our usual robust and comprehensive manner, we charge all of our members to remain calm, focused, and unwavering in our quest to achieve the main objective, which is landslide victories in all our elections in 2023.

    Once again, hearty congratulations to all our successful candidates and our deep, profound gratitude to all those who participated in the primaries. You have all made us proud.

    Ayemidejor congratulates Oborevwori on his victory

    Special Adviser to Governor Okowa on Entrepreneurship Development, Mr Ayemidejor Austine has congratulated the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Chief Sheriff F.O Oborevwori on his emergence as the People’s Democratic Party Governorship candidate in Delta State.

    Reacting to Oborevwori’s victory, the erstwhile commissioner for higher Education described the victory as a victory for all Deltans stating that Oborevwori as a seasoned politician has distinguished himself over the years as a fine parliamentarian and a committed party man.

    “Deltans will no doubt see “MORE” development as I am convinced that Oborevwori will complement the efforts of our performing governor”. Ayemidejor opined.

    On behalf of my family and political associates, I rejoice with you.

    Delta Guber Ticket: Ochor congratulates Oborevwori 

    The Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Ochor C. Ochor had congratulated the winner of the Delta Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Governorship Primary held on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, in Asaba the State capital, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

    The Deputy Speaker in a Press Statement signed by his Press Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, on behalf of his family, friends, aides and his constituency, said that despite the thorny parts towards the primary, the Speaker, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori was steadfast, and unperturbed by avarice of misinformation dished out to discredit his person and the journey as the candidate of Delta Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

    “Despite the thorny parts before the primary, you were all the time steadfast, unperturbed by the avarice of misinformation dished out to discredit your aspiration to fly the flag of our great party, the PDP in 2023 Governorship Election.”

    Hon Ochor attributed his steadfastness to his leadership learning over the years, which had prepared him for public offices such as a candidate to be the Governor of Delta State, with its socio-cultural peculiarity, not seen in other part of the country.

    ‘Your Steadfastness I can tell is due to your many years of learning, which had prepared you for public offices such as the office of the Delta State Governor, a state with a socio-cultural peculiarity, not seen in any other part of the country.”

    The Deputy Speaker while congratulating Oborevwori, dedicated the victory as the Candidate of the PDP in the 2023 Governorship Election to All Deltans, for their unity in support of his emergence as the choice of the party, while calling all party members to come together, to work towards victory in 2023, as yesterday is now history.

    “Your victory to me is to God who had protected and guided you through the Journey, and All Deltans who had stood behind you all these months. Yesterday had gone, we look up to tomorrow, I therefore urge all party faithful to works towards tomorrow, by dropping our differences, as the victory is for all members of the PDP family.

    Hon Ochor also gave accolade to the leadership of the party in the state, especially the Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who he described as a man of his words to give every aspirants an equal playing ground.

    “I will not fail to also appreciate the leadership of our party, especially the Governor senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who kept to his words of a free and fair primaries. He demonstrated this in all the primaries starting with that of the House of Assembly.” he said.

    On behalf of my family, my constituency, friends and aides, I congratulate you for your victory.” He concluded.

    Onyeme congratulates Oborevwori on winning Delta PDP guber ticket 

    The Chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party PDP in Ndokwa Nation and Executive Chairman, Delta State Internal Revenue Service Sir  Monday Onyeme has congratulated the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on winning the Delta State PDP Gubernatorial ticket.

    Speaking shortly after the declaration yesterday, Onyeme lauded Gov Okowa and the electoral Officers for holding a free, fair, transparent and rancour-free atmosphere in Governorship Primaries which led to the emergence of Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori as the Party flag bearer for the Delta State 2023 Governorship election.

    According to him, Hon Sheriff Oborevwori submitted himself to the people and the people’s (Delegates) power prevailed, adding that his commitment to democracy, nation-building, loyalty to the party are quite remarkable

    “This is Indeed the finest moments in Delta PDP, hence the decisions of the delegates which led to the landslide victory was an affirmation of Oborevwori’s wide acceptability, his sterling leadership qualities and his commitment towards good governance”

    While congratulating Rt Hon Oborevwori on his emergence as the Delta State PDP 2023 Gubernatorial Candidate, he expressed confidence that Hon Oborevwori will not only deliver the M.O.R.E Agenda that will better the lives of Deltans if elected but will also consolidate on the gains achieve by the Okowa’s led administration.

    He called on all aspirants, Party faithful  to demonstrate the spirit of Sportsmanship by joining hands together with the party’s gubernatorial candidate Rt Hon Oborevwori for a total victory at the general election

    Ugbomah praises Oborevwori, commends PDP, Okowa over primary

    House of Assembly Aspirant in Ndokwa east Engr Philips Ugbomah Chukwumah has congratulated the winner of the People’s Democratic Party PDP governorship primary in Delta State Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.

    According to Ugbomah in a congratulatory message, Sheriff’s emergence will unite the PDP more.

    He said everyone who contested the PDP gubernatorial primaries should join hands with Sheriff in sustaining the unity in the party.

    Ugbomah who commended Delta State Governor Sen Ifeanyi Okowa for the developmental strides recorded in the past years in the state said, Sheriff will bring more dividends of democracy to Deltans when elected as governor of Delta State.

    “I congratulate Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori on his emergence as the PDP gubernatorial candidate.

    His choice by the party delegates is a well-calculated choice and we must work together as one family in winning the 2023 general election.

    I also want to use this medium to urge Rt Hon Sheriff to unite with other aspirants to work towards the success of the party come 2023.

    Sheriff no doubt will perform beyond expectations when elected,” he said.

  • Edevbie reacts after losing PDP guber ticket to Oborevwori

    Edevbie reacts after losing PDP guber ticket to Oborevwori

    Former Chief of Staff, Government House, Asaba, Delta State, Olorogun David Edevbie has reacted after losing the State governorship ticket of the PDP to Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, Speaker of State House of Assembly.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Edevbie as saying though the outcome of the PDP governorship primary election was not favourable to him, he is humbled by the immense goodwill shown to me across the entire State.

    Edevbie states: “After several months of consultations and crisscrossing the length and breadth of our dear State, the Delta State PDP Governorship Primary was finally held today May 25.

    “Though the result was unfavourable, I am humbled by the immense goodwill shown to me across the entire State. I thank all Deltans and members of our Party, particularly the youth, for your enthusiasm and support through the process.

    “We are driven by the vision and a strong passion for the development of our dear State, and we remain encouraged that most Deltans share in this vision.

    “Though several unsavoury factors came into play in our politics, particularly over the last few months, we remain steadfast in our aspiration for a modernised Delta to be bequeathed to the next generation.

    “Once again, thank you, Deltans and may God bless our State”.

    Recall that Oborevwori emerged winner of the governorship primary that was conducted by the PDP on Wednesday for the 2023 general election.

    The Speaker polled a total of 590 votes to beat Edevbie, who scored a total of 113 votes.

    Other aspirants are Deputy Gov. Kingsley Otuaro who scored nine votes and the immediate past Attoney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Peter Mrakpor who also polled nine votes.

    Sen. James Manager (83); Mr Fred Majemite (six); Ejaife Odebala (three); Chief Abel Esievo, (two); Dr Braduce Angozi; ( two ); Sir Bright Onajefe-Gift, ( three); Mr Chris Iyowaye, ( zero); Lucky Idike, (one); and Chief Ikie Agbarianovwe scored no vote.

    However, a former Minister of Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, who was also cleared by the party to run backed out of the primary.

    The PDP Returning Officer, Mr Ndubisi Nwobu and his team, while declaring the result, announced Oborevwori winner for scoring the highest number of votes in the primary election.

    According to him, the elections committee accredited a total of 824 delegates for the primary elections but 822 votes were cast with three void votes.

    “By the power conferred on me as the Party Returning officer for the Delta State PDP Governorship Primaries for 2023, I hereby declare Mr Sheriff Oborevwori winner for scoring the highest number of votes in the election.

    “Oborevwori scored a total of 590 out of 821 valid votes to emerge winner and he is hereby returned as the Delta PDP candidate for the 2023 general election.”

  • Former Rivers’ Accountant-General, Fubara, clinches PDP guber ticket

    A former Accountant-General of Rivers, Mr Siminialaye Fubara, has clinched the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial ticket for the 2023 general election with a total of 721 votes.

    The Chairman of the electoral panel, Prof. Walter Mbutu, declared him winner, following a peaceful delegate election held on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.

    The runner-up, Mr Kamala Isaac secured 86 votes, followed by Mr George Kelly with 37 votes while Mr Tammy Danagogo polled 36 votes.

    Others were West Morga and David Briggs who got four votes each while Mr Felix Obuah, the immediate past Chairman of the party, garnered two votes.

    In his acceptance speech, Fubara thanked the party and the delegates for the support, describing his win as a victory for the party and a step towards moving the state forward.

    “The purpose of this congress is to consolidate on the achievements of the present administration,” he added.

    He, however, assured the people of his readiness to work in harmony with the party to sustain the ‘’wonderful’’ achievements of Gov. Nyesom Wike-led administration, and urged other contestants to support the cause.

    In his remarks, Wike thanked the contestants for participating in the process and supporting the party while expressing optimism that the party would be victorious during the general elections.

    “Power comes from God; so everybody should see his (Fubara’s) emergence as God’s wish for the state,” he said.

    Adressing the congress before the election, the Chairman of the party, Mr Desmond Akawo, had thanked members of the party for a successful congresses across the wards and constituencies.

    He urged them to replicate same in the gubernatorial primary election.

    The voting process which commenced at about 6: 10 p.m. recorded 980 registered delegates from the 23 local government areas of the state with three (one female, two male) delegates drawn from each ward.

    A total of 898 voters were accredited out of whom cast 890 valid votes while eight votes were voided.

  • 2023 guber election: Candidates emerge for PDP in 12 States

    As the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held primary elections across the country today, candidates have emerged from twelve (12) States, according to results announced at the time of filing this report.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports the States where results have been finalized and announced are Delta, Gombe, Jigawa, Benue, Abia, Bauchi, Enugu, Oyo, Nasarawa and Adamawa, with the primary election postponed for Niger State.

    Barde wins Gombe PDP guber primaries

    Alhaji Jibrin Barde has emerged the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 general election in Gombe State.

    Barde polled 160 votes to defeat five other aspirants in the primary election held on Wednesday in Gombe.

    Announcing the results, Mike Oghiadomhe, the PDP Returning Officer for the PDP governorship primaries in the state, declared Jamil Gwamna scored 119 votes, Dr Ali Gombe got 17 votes, Adamu Suleiman 18 votes, Gimba Ya’u 1 vote and Babayo Ardo scored 13 votes.

    He said that the total vote cast in the election was 328.

    Oghiadomhe commended security personnel, journalists, contestants and party executives for the peaceful conduct of the exercise.

    He urged members of the party to work together to ensure its victory in the forthcoming general elections in the state.

    In his acceptance speech,  Barde attributed his victory to the will of God while commending the party.

    He said that he would work with all the contestants to ensure the PDP win election to provide good governance to people of the state.

    Barde, a first runner up in 2019 All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primary in the state, decamped to the PDP in February 2021.

    He was a former Chief Executive Officer, SunTrust Bank.

    Lamido’s son emerges Jigawa PDP guber candidate

    Alhaji Mustafa Lamido, the son of former Gov. Sule Lamido of Jigawa, has emerged as the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2023 poll.

    The returning officer for the primaries, Mr Isah Ahmed, said this when he announced the results on Wednesday in Dutse.

    Ahmed said that Mustafa scored 829 out of the 832 votes cast to win the primaries, adding that Alhaji Saleh Shehu, placed second with zero votes.

    He congratulated the winner of the election, party delegates as well as party members whose conduct made the election hitch free.

    Mustafa expressed joy at the victory.

    “I most sincerely accept this nomination with humility, modesty and determination,” he said.

    He described the congress as historic.

    “As we move to the next stage of campaign and elections, I ask you to trust me, work with me, campaign with me and vote for me so that we can make the state great again. And I can on you to come out massively to vote for PDP.

    “I urge all of us to avoid politics of division and disunity. The interest of the state is far and above any personal or sectional interest.

    “To our traditional rulers and elders, I have great respect for them and will consult them regularly on issues that will assist in moving the state forward. I pledge to campaign peacefully, but vigorously, I therefore as for your support and prayers,” he said.

    One of the aspirants, Alhaji Adamu Bashir, announced his withdrawal a few hours before the commencement of the primary election.

    Benue speaker emerges PDP guber candidate

    The speaker of Benue House of Assembly, Mr Titus Uba, has picked the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for the state governorship election in 2023.

    The Returning Officer for the primaries, Mr Bode Ojomu said this when he announced the result of the election on Wednesday in Makurdi.

    Ojomu said that Uba scored 731 out of the 851 votes at the event, adding that the deputy governor, Benson Abounu placed second with 81 votes, while Prof. Dennis Ityavyar got two votes to take the third position.

    Reacting, Uba described his victory as an act of God. He appreciated some aspirants, who stepped down for him, saying the action as a sign of comradeship.

    “My challenge now is how to move both the party and the state forward but with the support of PDP members we will be able to achieve great things for the party and state,” Uba said.

    He thanked Abounu for showing him immense love in spite of the fact that they were aspiring for the same position.

    Also speaking, Gov. Samuel Ortom, attributed Uba’s victory to God.

    “A man cannot get anything unless given to him by God. God has done it and we return all the glory to Him.

    “This victory is not Uba’s victory, neither is it mine but it is victory for Benue and PDP,” Ortom said.

    He pledged to give Uba the needed support to enable him succeed, saying that PDP would work to retain the state in 2023 general elections.

    He lauded the electoral process, saying it was free, fair, credible and transparent.

    2023: Former VC emerges Abia PDP flag bearer

    Former Vice Chancellor of the Abia State University, Uturu, Prof. Uche Ikonne, has emerged the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 general elections.

    Ikonne was elected at the party’s primary election held at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Wednesday.

    He polled 468 votes to defeat five other contestants in the exercise that took place under heavy presence of security personnel.

    Mr Lucky Igbokwe came a distant second with 45 votes, while the only female contestant, Mrs Ngozi Merenge, scored five votes.

    The Chairman of the Primary Election Committee and former Gov. Ayo Fayose thanked the delegates for their peaceful conduct during the exercise.

    In an acceptance speech, Ikonne expressed gratitude to Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu and PDP for believing in him.

    He gave assurance that he would not betray such confidence.

    He further assured them that he would deliver victory to the party in the general election.

    He promised to tackle the huge infrastructure need of the state, create jobs for the youths and ensure that women were gainfully engaged when elected.

    2023: Kashim emerges Bauchi PDP guber candidate

    Mr Ibrahim Kashim, a gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi State, has emerged as the party’s governorship flag bearer for the 2023 general election.

    Kashim, the immediate past Secretary to the State Government was the only governorship aspirant in the party’s primary election.

    Mr Hassan Grema, Chairman, PDP Governorship Primary Election Committee, announced this at the end of the exercise on Wednesday in Bauchi.

    He said that 656 delegates participated in the exercise, adding that only one vote was declared invalid.

    “Ibrahim Kashim was the only aspirant of the party in the state and the delegates had to vote to complete due process in line with the electoral law,” he said.

    He commended the delegates for their orderly behaviour during the exercise held across the 21 local government areas of the state.

    Responding, Kashim said: ”I want to thank you for bestowing the honour on me, this is just the beginning, we will have a great task ahead.

    “We need to unite our party faithful ahead of the 2023 general election in the state,” he said.

    He lauded Gov. Bala Mohammed for providing purposeful leadership and execution of developmental projects in three years of his administration.

    Kashim pledged to build on the existing structures and consolidate on the feat achieved by Mohammed’s administration in the state.

    Mohammed has joined the presidential race on the platform of the PDP.

    Former Chief of Staff, Peter Mba, emerges PDP Gubernatorial candidate in Enugu

    A former Chief of Staff to Ex Gov Chimaroke Nnamani of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mba, has emerged winner of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial primaries in the state.

    Mba, who was also Commissioner for Finance under the Nnamani administration, polled 790 votes in the primaries contested by nine aspirants.

    His closest rival, Mr Chijioke Edeoga polled nine votes, followed by Mr Chinyeaka Ohaa with three votes while Sen. Ike Ekweremadu and Mr Chukwunta Gilbert with one vote respectively.

    The other five contestants which included Prof. Hillary Edeoga, Mr Ken Onoh, Prof. Barth Nnaji, Sen. Gilbert Nnaji and scored nil votes.

    Only three void votes were recorded in the primary election.

    The Chairman of the PDP Gubernatorial Primaries Electoral Committee in Enugu State, Sen. Zik Sunday, who declared the result, described the process as “transparent, credible and peaceful”.

    Sunday said that 812 delegates were accredited for the exercise with 807 votes cast.

    He said that at the close of accreditation, two delegates from Oji River Local Government Area were absent.

    The electoral committee chairman said that independent observers, including officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, were on the ground to monitor the exercise.

    19 aspirants purchased the gubernatorial nomination form of the party.

    However, prior to voting during the primaries, eight of the aspirants stepped down for Mba.

    The aspirants who announced their withdrawals are Messrs Chukwudi Nneji, Kingsley Udeh, Erasmus Anike and Nwabueze Ugwu.

    The rest are Messrs Ifeanyichukwu Nwoye, Onyekwere Nnaji, Beloved-Dan Anike and Gabriel Ajah.

    In his acceptance speech, the governorship candidate pledged to serve with humility and build on the success of the current administration if elected.

    According to Mba, it is our vision to transform our state with the support of the people of the state.

    It would be recalled that Ekweremadu had in a statement early hours of Wednesday announced his withdrawal from the contest.

    Voting at the primaries which held in the main bowl of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu started by 2:22 pm.

    Mba, a legal professional, who hails from Nkanu East Local Government Area of the state is the Chief Executive Officer, Pinnacle Oils Nig. Ltd.

    Makinde wins Oyo PDP guber primaries

    Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has emerged as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 governorship election in the state.

    Makinde defeated Hazeem Gbolarumi, who was his only opponent in the primaries held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, on Wednesday.

    Announcing the results of the election, the secretary of the PDP Electoral Committee, Alhaji Abdullahi MaiBasira, said that 1,048 delegates were accredited to vote out of 1,086 delegates.

    MaiBasira said Makinde scored 1,040 votes to defeat Gbolarumi, who scored only two votes; adding that six votes were voided.

    In his acceptance speech, Makinde thanked all the delegates for finding him worthy to be the party’s flag bearer in the 2023 election.

    “I’m not the most brilliant or the most upright person yet you gave me your mandate. Thank you for believing in me and in our party, PDP.

    “Trust is like a building. For every building to stand it must have a solid foundation; the foundation for trust is truth,” Makinde said.

    The governor, while assuring the delegates that he would continue to be honest, urged all PDP members in the state to continue working for the progress of the party.

    Earlier, Gbolarumi, who alleged that his delegates were chased away from the venue of the primaries, called on the leadership of the party to do the right thing for the growth of the party in the state.

    The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Oyo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke, and the INEC Administrative Secretary, Alhaji Abiodun Onigate-Amosun, witnessed the primaries.

    Representatives of security agencies at the election were the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Department of Security Service (DSS).

    Delegates from across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state were at the stadium for the primaries.

    Gbolarumi, a former deputy governor to former governor Adebayo Alao-Akala arrived at the venue of the event at exactly 11.05 a.m.

    As part of the efforts to ensure the integrity of the election security agencies locked the gates leading into the venue leaving only one gate for participants to gain entrance while turning back intruders.

    Gov. Fintiri scores 633 out of 638 votes, emerges as PDP’s governorship candidate

    No fewer than 663 delegates on Wednesday elected Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa as the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship candidate to contest the 2023 election for a second term of office.

    Dr Gibon Katabs, Chairman of the electoral committee of the primary election made the announcement in Yola after the exercise.

    Fintiri was the only contestant following the disqualification of Mr Jamil Waziri by the screening committee.

    Katabs said that 668 delegates were accredited, but there were five invalid votes.

    “Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri scored 663 valid votes and is hereby returned as the governorship candidate of PDP for Adamawa in 2023,’’ he said.

    Katabs also commended the delegates for the successful primary election.

    In his acceptance speech, Fintiri thanked and appreciated the delegates for the confidence reposed in him to run for a second term of office.

    He congratulated all the party’s candidates for the successful primary elections and assured that the party would stand by them to the end.

    Fintiri urged those who lost elections to accept their fate as an act of God and to continue to support the party to succeed as one family.

    He also called on the party’s supporters to be ready for the national convention to ensure that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, an Adamawa indigene and former vice-president emerge as the party’s presidential candidate.

    Speaker Oborevwori emerges as PDP’s governorship candidate in Delta

    Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori has won the governorship ticket of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

    Oborevwori won the PDP governorship ticket to emerge as the gubernatorial candidate of the party in Delta to contest the 2023 General Election.

    The primary election, which was held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, the State Capital, saw eight hundred and twenty-five (825) delegates accredited to vote.

    Oborevwori polled 590 votes to emerge as the candidate of the PDP for Delta in the 2023 general election. While David Edevbie scored 113 votes to come second, Senator James Manager polled 83 votes from delegates.

    TNG reports Olorogun Fred Majemite polled 6 votes, Peter Mrakpor polled 9 votes, Kingsley Otuaro polled 9 votes, Omizu Odebala polled 4 votes and Kenneth Gbagi polled 1 vote.

    A total of 14 aspirants were announced for the governorship primary election but only 13 were present at the venue, excluding Gbagi called in absent due to fatigue.

    Other governorship aspirants that took part in the primary election are Abel Esievo, Chris Iyovwaye, Braduce Angozi, Lucky Oroye, Onajefe Gift and Ike Arariboro.

    Former Reps member clinches Nasarawa PDP guber ticket

    A former member of the  House of Representatives, Mr David Ombugadu, has clinched the gubernatorial ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Nasarawa State.

    The Chairman of the party’s electoral committee in the state, Mr Bature Musa, announced Ombugadu as the winner of the governorship primary election held on Wednesday in Nasarawa, Nasarawa Local Government Area of the state.

    Musa said Ombugadu polled 247 votes to defeat retired Maj. Gen. Nuhu Angbazo who scored 203 votes.

    “Having secured a total of 247, I thereby,  declare Hon. David Ombugadu the winner of the Nasarawa State Governorship primary election,” he said.

    He said a total of 450 delegates were accredited and all voted in the election.

    Reacting in an interview with newsmen, Ombugadu attributed his victory to God and promised to work hard to ensure that PDP take over governance in the state in 2023.

    Also reacting to the result of the primaries, Angbazo accepted the outcome describing the conduct as free and fair.

    “I want to make it very clear that the organisation of the whole process was very transparent. It was done in a way that there is no need for me to think otherwise,” he said.

    He pledged to work closely with Ombugadu in order to ensure victory for PDP in the general election.

    Mr Labaran Maku, a former Minister of Information and an aspirant had earlier withdrawn from the contest before voting began.

    PDP postpones governorship primary election in Niger as aspirants protest

    Meanwhile, the governorship primary election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Niger was postponed from Wednesday to Thursday following protests by four of the five aspirants contesting the election.

    The protesting aspirants, Alhaji Sani Kutigi, Alhaji Sidi Abdul, Mr Abdulrahman Gimba and Alhaji Abubakar Jankara, insisted that delegates must identify themselves properly before they could be accredited.

    A total of 800 delegates were expected to elect the party’s governorship candidate.

    The four aspirants took the decision that all delegates must identify themselves properly after an emergency meeting they held in one of the offices at the PDP secretariat, venue of the election.

    Jankara, who spoke on behalf of the aggrieved aspirants, conveyed their decision to the Chairman of the electoral panel and Deputy Governor of Bayelsa, Mr Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

    The protesters insisted that delegates must present a means of identification, which should be a national drivers’ licence, a national identity card or international passport.

    Efforts by Ewhrudjakpo to pacify the aspirants to agree that the delegates be identified by the chairmen of their respective local governments failed.

    The four aspirants also intimated the head of the security team at the venue, Assistant Commissioner of Police Adedeji Taiwo, who advised them to put their complaint in writing.

    Ewhrudjakpo later informed newsmen that he had directed all delegates to get means of identification and shifted the exercise to Thursday.

    Court refuses to stop PDP from conducting guber primary in Rivers

    The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, refused to grant an ex parte application filed by Mr Farah Dagogo asking the court to stop the gubernatorial primary election of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers.

    Dagogo, a member of the House of Representatives from Rivers approached the court through an ex parte application filed and argued by his lawyer Mr Selekeowey Larry (SAN).

    He asked the court to stop the primary pending the hearing and determination of his substantive suit in which he is challenging his exclusion from participating in the screening that would make him eligible to participate in the primaries.

    The suit was instituted against the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC).

    In his ruling on Wednesday, Justice Taiwo Taiwo held that after perusing the ex parte application, it was his view that the application had no merit.

    “It is my well-considered view that this application ought to fail and same is dismissed,’’ Justice Taiwo said.

    The judge said that the application failed owing to the fact that Dagogo delayed in filing it.

    “I have looked at the ex parte application before me and I can see that the applicant filed his originating summons on May 12, and filed the ex parte application on May 18.

    “Why did the applicant fail to file the ex parte application together with the originating summons?

    “Why did the applicant wait for six days before filing the application as he is no doubt aware of the guidelines of the PDP for the conduct of primary elections.

    “I have to ask these questions to show that there has been a delay on the part of the applicant in timeously filing the application,’’ the judge said

    Justice Taiwo also said that the balance of convenience was not in favour of the applicant as it would be an inconvenience to the respondents for the court to grant the application.

    According to the judge, the applicant did not participate in the screening which is a condition precedent in taking part in the gubernatorial primary election of the PDP.

    He dismissed the suit and fixed June 7, for hearing of the substantive matter.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dagogo had prayed the court for an order of interim injunction restraining the PDP from conducting its governorship primaries in Rivers.

    He also asked the court to stop it from parading and or using any list of aspirants for the purpose of conducting the gubernatorial primary election for Rivers on May 26.

    He further asked the court to restrain INEC from accepting any candidate which might emerge from the Rivers gubernatorial primary of the PDP pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

    In an affidavit in support of the suit, Dagogo alleged that the PDP connived with the governor of Rivers and prevented him from participating in the screening.

    He said that this was done by arresting and locking him up in the governor’s office.

    Responding for the PDP, Mr Ken Njemaneze (SAN) argued that Dagogo was not an aspirant having not been screened to contest the primaries.

    Njemaneze held that based on the grounds that Dagogo was not an aspirant of the party, he lacked the competence to evoke the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the matter as constituted.