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2023: STOP THE HOWLING AND GROWLING AND GET REAL by Femi Fani-Kayode

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Fani Kayode

2023: STOP THE HOWLING AND GROWLING AND GET REAL by Femi Fani-Kayode

 

 

 

 

 

In a statement titled ‘Our Party, APC Must Tread The Path of Equity’,

 

 

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, the Governor of Ondo state, said, inter alia, the following:

 

 

 

 

“It is the turn of the Southern part of the country to produce the next President. The party leadership should have no difficulty in making a pronouncement on this very important issue just as it has fixed various fees for the purchase of forms. This must be done without delay. The principle of Federal Character is enshrined in the 1999 constitution as amended. It would be disingenuous for anyone to argue against rotation at this period. We must not keep our party men and women guessing on the position of the leadership of the party. This is the time to weigh in and take control of the process. No statement must suggest, even remotely, that the party harbours certain sentiments which may predispose it to consider throwing the contest open. This is certainly not the time for equivocation. EQUITY DICTATES THAT WE TAKE A STAND!”

As bellicose and strongly-worded as ever, my dearest brother has spoken his mind courageously. Kudos to him but I beg to differ.

Threatening your party leadership simply because you are a Governor is not the best way to establish common ground and a reasonable consensus on any matter.

More on this later.

In his own contribution Senator Ali Ndume said the following.

“They (meaning the Senators supporting Senate President Ahmad Lawan for President) have not come because they know my position. I have nothing against Ahmad Lawan. He is my colleague. But I have everything against injustice. I won’t support even my biological brother. Fielding a northerner is tantamount to injustice and tantamount to a third term. The so-called Northern Elders that are pushing it are doing so to perpetuate injustice. It is the turn of the South and we have to support them to actualise this. I am disappointed in those that are pushing this (meaning Northern Presidency). I have since taken a position even before my alignment with Rotimi Amaechi”.

These are interesting words from a dear friend and a man for whom I have immense respect. However, once again I beg to differ.

Some who have insisted on a Southern Presidency next year are less charitable and far more rabid, vicious and aggressive than Akeredolu and Ndume.

They have howled, growled and threatened to tear the country apart and indulge in all manner of subterfuge and violence if they do not get their way.

This contribution serves primarily as a response to them and also as a gentle warning and caveat to the more restrained and civilised voices who secretly harbour their thoughts and share their warped disposition but are smart enough not to express it publicly.

To them I say the following.

Kindly stop the howling, the growling, the barking, the wailing, the sulking, the lamenting, the rolling all over the floor and all the other infantile expressions of hopelessness and frustration and get real.

More importantly be cool-headed, cerebal, analytical, intellectual, civilised and thorough in your analysis, stop the nonsense, control your emotions and take sentiments out of this.

The quest for power is a serious business. It is not served on a plate and it does not come easily.

Whilst most in the South are blabbing, threatening and insulting all those that do not see things their way, the majority of the North are planning silently and effectively keeping their cards close to their chest and operating in unity, peace and one accord.

This is both beautiful and powerful and it cannot be downplayed or ignored. It is a virtue and not a weakness.

And those that malign them or treat them with contempt for charting this course do so at their own peril.

If the South really wants the Presidency next year in the name of fairness and equity then I challenge them to let every single aspirant from both the South West and South South in BOTH parties STEP DOWN for a candidate from the South East and support that candidate.

Unless and until they have the presence of mind and fortitude to do so they cannot fairly say the Presidency must not go to the North.

The people of the North East and North Central have been denied their fair share of democratically-elected leaders.

Why should they be denied this opportunity again just to pave way for a Southerner in 2023? Are they not Nigerians as well? Are they second class citizens?

Do they not also have the right to feel marginalised and deprived and are they not entitled to have their own dreams and aspirations?

The North Central has NEVER enjoyed a democratically-elected President in our entire history and the North East has not enjoyed it for 62 years!

Is that reasonable, just or fair?

Worse still in the case if the North East the entire zone has been ravaged by terrorism and barborous banditry inflicted by mainly foreign sponsored elements over the last 12 years and now some are saying none of their sons can run for the Presidency? This is surely callous and unconciable.

Can anyone rightly say they will go to war or sabotage the chances of their own political party just because aspirants from either the North Eastern or North Central zones may emerge as the party flag bearer or because their party refuses to zone the Presidency to the South?

Is this not, at best, irresponsible and, at worse, madness?

Is it a crime to come from Yobe, Borno, Kogi, Kwara, Nassarawa, Niger, Adamawa, the FCT or any of the other North Eastern or North Central states? Surely this cannot be so.

It is absurd and disingenuous for anyone to argue that the SW, who have enjoyed power for 8 years as President and 8 years as VP over the last 23 years alone should take the Presidency next year.

What about the South East, North Central and North East?

Are they not Nigerians too?

We should not talk about North and South anymore. These are archaic, anachronistic and outdated designations. There is no longer any ONE NORTH and there was never any ONE SOUTH.

What we have today are six distinct, strong and intellectually and spiritually independent zones and that is what we should talk about.

My view is that we should allow any of the three zones that have not had their fair share of democratically elected Presidents have an opportunity to do so next year.

That is what you call justice and fairness and all the lamentations, insults, threats and barking in the world cannot change that.

The South East, North East and North Central are peopled by decent, hard-working, diligent, brilliant, civilised leaders as well and they were born free. They were not born Nigerians to be slaves to the people of the North West, South West and South South.

And those of us from the North West, South West and South South were not born to be their masters and overlords and neither were they born to be ours.

We were all born to be equals before God and the law and anything short of that will lead to catastrophy and put us on the road to Kigali.

Finally let me say this: if the PDP picks a northerner as its candidate then the APC MUST do the same in order to win.

Anything outside of this will be folly and a recipe for disaster.

Politics is a game of numbers and it is a winner takes all match. There are no prizes for the runner up.

The APC must not destroy its chances of winning or sacrifice its chances of victory on the alter of a Southern Presidency despite the rantings of some regional irredentists who have a divisive agenda and who ought to know better.

We must do all we can to win and judging from what I am seeing and the fact that an Atiku presidential bid is likely to be presented by the PDP the only way we can do so is if we field a strong candidate from the North Central or North Eastern zone.

Threats that the country will divide or that there will be secession if this happens are unfounded, baseless, alarmist and false.

We shall hold the line and weather the storm. We shall do whatever it takes to keep the peace and keep our flag flying.

Nigeria shall remain united and together we shall go from strength to strength.

(FFK)

religion

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

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Prophet Kingsley Aitafo's Prophecy Fulfilled: Alhaji Muyideen Bello Passes Away

Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:

 

 

1. A Year of Divine Justice

2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.

 

2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against

The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.

 

3. A Major Technological Advancement

WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.

 

4. Nigeria’s National Football Team

The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.

 

5. A Great Man of God in Danger

One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.

 

6. Sunday Igboho

The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.

 

7. Nnamdi Kanu

Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.

 

8. Fire Disasters Worldwide

Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.

 

9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.

 

10. Global Police Forces

The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.

 

11. African Nations and Coups

Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.

 

12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.

 

13. Changes in EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.

 

14. Passing of Aged Leaders

Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.

 

15. New Religious Leaders

New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.

 

16. Churches in Danger of Scandals

Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.

 

17. Exposure of False Churches

Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.

 

18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers

Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.

 

19. Plane Crashes

A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.

 

20. National Unity in Nigeria

Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.

 

21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat

Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.

 

22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict

A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.

 

23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches

The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.

 

24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria

Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.

 

25. Christ’s Return is Near

Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.

 

Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.

 

Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.

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Politics

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

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Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

Peter Obi Offers to Fulfill Bail Conditions for Dele Farotimi, Advocates Justice

The global coordinator of the Obidient Movement has announced that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement, has stepped forward to fulfill the bail conditions for human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi.

Farotimi, a prominent activist known for his bold stance against systemic issues in Nigeria, was recently granted ₦30 million bail by a Federal High Court following charges filed against him. The case has attracted significant public attention, with widespread support for Farotimi from various quarters.

In a statement, the Coordinator revealed that Obi expressed his gratitude to the judiciary and all stakeholders involved in the legal process. The former presidential candidate emphasized the importance of fairness, transparency, and the rule of law in resolving the matter.

The Obidient Movement, known for championing justice and accountability, has remained vocal in its support for Farotimi. The group reiterated its commitment to upholding the principles of justice and transparency in Nigeria’s judicial system.

The next hearing in Farotimi’s case is scheduled for January 2025, with supporters hopeful for a resolution that upholds the integrity of the legal process.

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Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

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Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.

Breaking: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.

Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.

Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.

Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.

“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.

“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.

Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.

“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.

“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.

“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.

“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

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