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Adamawa Guber: Don’t Abort History, Review Results Before Re-run—Stakeholders Tell INEC
Adamawa Guber: Don’t Abort History, Review Results Before Re-run—Stakeholders Tell INEC
Adamawa Guber- Overtime and in a consistent order, women are unrelenting in asserting themselves in the political hemisphere essentially on account of male corrosive effects on political transparency and accountability. This begun in Aba in 1955 when women outnumbered their male counterpart voters in a citywide election.
By 1961, they had increased the tempo when Margaret Ekpo won a seat to the Eastern Regional House of Assembly, a position that allowed her to fight for issues affecting women at the time.
Those flashes of efforts by Nigerian women to bridge the gap of women’s under-representation in political and public life were reinforced by the 1995 Beijing Declaration which recommended Women’s equal participation in leadership.
It is perhaps, against this backdrop that legal luminary, Afe Babalola, SAN, in an article in Tribune Newspaper on July 7, 2022, frowned at the rejection of the Gender Equality Bill by the National Assembly saying the Bill was initiated to address the gender imbalance in governance.
According to the legal expert, the need to draft a constitution that will guarantee equity, fairness and justice to all Nigerians was one of the outstanding recommendations made at the National Conference which President Goodluck Jonathan called in 2014, after realizing that the current constitutional protections are not entirely effective in preventing discrimination based on sex, religion, or ethnicity.
Afe Babalola pointed out that the statistics on women’s involvement in politics in Nigeria are unsurprisingly low adding that much work still needs to be done to increase women’s opportunities for political participation.
In particular, he explained that a thorough examination of the information provided by the Independent National Electoral Commission indicates an insignificant percentage of women occupation of public office since 1999 stressing that “No woman has ever been chosen to lead a state in Nigeria as governor since 1999.”
Clearly, Afe Babalola’s submission speaks directly to the March 18 political somersaults in Adamawa State governorship election where the governor and Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and the only 2023 female governorship candidate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aishat Dahiru Binani, are slugging it out.
Available data indicate that in the Adamawa governorship contest, Binani is not just facing an incumbent, she is also running against religious and cultural biases that have long stood against women in contests for power in the more conservative part of Nigeria.
However and hurtfully so, are powerful individuals at the centre of the twists and turns who exist within and outside benevolent and malevolent categories, ever ready to deconstruct extant political literature.
In a pre-election review, Boboye Abba, a Yola-based public analyst said “But if not for the incumbency factor, Aisha Binani has more support than Governor Umar Fintiri across the segments and the divides in Adamawa State, because of her open-handedness.”
He added that “wherever Binani went before the presidential election, her teeming supporters always showed her love and open support. If she asked them to vote for the APC from the president down to the governor, the crowd would reply ‘No! For the president, we will vote for Atiku Abubakar but in the state, we will vote for Binani’.
“ It showed that those who voted for Atiku in the presidential election may not vote for Fintiri in the governorship election, but for Binani. Attendance at her campaign rallies was more than that of her rivals, the incumbent governor cannot pull her kind of crowd. Because Fintiri does not give out welfare despite being the serving governor, that is why people like Binani,” Mr Abba said.
This review manifested clearly and captured the pattern of victory on March 18 when the election held but finally declared “inconclusive.”
Adamawa State Collation Officer, Professor Mohammed Mele, and the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Yakubu Ari, on Monday, March 20, after collation of results from 20 out of the 21 Local Government Areas, postponed the collation saying the postponement was to enable verification of results from Fufore Local Government Area which were snatched.
In her personal narrative, Aisha Binani stated that in some locations, BVAS was bypassed and governor Ahmadu Fintiri instigated the violence. “Let INEC conducts a review of some local government areas so that it will bring out the real figures scored by each candidate. As soon as that is done, we will be home and dry and we will be confident to go back to the field for a re-run,” she demanded.
To that effect, the APC candidate has made a formal request to INEC to have a “Certify True Copy of BVAS report/result in all the local government areas in Adamawa State for the March 18 guber election to enable me to study some irregularities carried out by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.”
In a letter from her legal representative, Sam Ologunorisa & Co, dated March 23 and titled: “Application For Certified True Copy of the Bio Modal Verification Authentication System, BVAS, Used For 2023 Adamawa State Governorship,” and addressed to the National Secretary of INEC, Binani specifically singled out Madagali and Michika council areas saying “It is well known that these two local government areas are under the severe consequence of insurgency and banditry whereby a huge number of their population had relocated to Mubi, Yola and other places . Yet, results returned from these places recorded the highest number ever in the history of election in the areas,” she stated.
In the face of this logjam, Yiaga Africa, a civil society organization, has requested the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to review concerns that have been raised about the conduct of the gubernatorial polls.
Further, the civil society requests the electoral body to pay attention to complaints saying “INEC should, in line with section 64 of the 2022 electoral act, review cases where legitimate concerns have been raised on the conduct and declarations made by collation and returning officers, especially instances where results declaration contravene the electoral legal framework.
Also, a Women’s group called Amazon has called on Nigerian women to rise up to the challenge in what the group describes as a deliberate attempt to deny women a governorship seat in 2023. During the week, the group gathered at Merit House, Abuja “To add our voice and demand that the right thing is done in Adamawa.”
In an unmistakable call on INEC to eliminate biases from its operations and promote confidence by attending to legitimate complaints especially from candidates who fell short changed, the European Union Election Observation Mission to Nigeria’s 2023 general elections has declared that owing to lack of transparency and operational failures, Nigerians have lost confidence and trust in INEC.
Speaking at a media briefing in Abuja to present the Mission’s second preliminary reports, the Chief Observer, Barry Andrews, noted that although Nigerians had great appetite for democracy and were keen to engage in various civic activities, their expectations were dashed as a result of the apathy recorded. The governorship elections conducted last Saturday was a clear consequence of failures by political elites and “unfortunately, INEC.”
Andrews said: “Obstruction and organized violence limited the free expression of the will of the voters, despite efforts by civil society to promote democratic standards.”
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PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES OTEGA OGRA ON ELECTION TO WORLD FEDERATION OF ADVERTISERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES OTEGA OGRA ON ELECTION TO WORLD FEDERATION OF ADVERTISERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated his Senior Special Assistant on Digital Engagement, Strategy and New Media, Mr Otega Ogra, on his election to the Executive Committee of the World Federation of Advertisers (WFA).
The election took place today at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting, held during the Global Marketing Week Conference in Stockholm, Sweden.
President Tinubu described the development as a significant step for Nigeria’s growing influence in global communications.
He noted that Mr Ogra’s emergence as the only representative from West Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa on the Executive Committee reflects the depth of Nigerian expertise and the contribution of a new generation of young Nigerian professionals to global industry standards.
Mr Ogra was elected to the Executive Committee on the platform of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN), underscoring the role of Nigeria’s organised advertising and marketing industry in shaping representation at the global level.
The WFA is the leading global body for advertisers, representing over 150 multinational and Fortune 500 companies, alongside national advertiser associations across more than 60 countries, with a combined annual marketing spend running into hundreds of billions of dollars. Its Executive Committee is the organisation’s highest decision-making body, responsible for setting priorities and guiding global policy on responsible advertising, media transparency, sustainability, and the evolution of digital ecosystems.
President Tinubu noted that Mr Ogra’s election is both a personal distinction and a strategic opportunity for Nigeria and the African continent, placing them at the centre of global conversations on brand trust, platform accountability, innovation and the future of marketing and communications.
The President commended Mr Ogra, who also serves as Vice President of ADVAN, for his sustained contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s marketing and communications ecosystem, drawing on a career spanning leadership roles across the banking, manufacturing, and public sectors.
“Otega’s election reflects the growing recognition of Nigerian expertise and affirms our capacity to contribute meaningfully to the frameworks shaping global markets,” the President said.
President Tinubu added that the achievement aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in advancing the creative economy, strengthening digital governance, and positioning Nigeria as a competitive hub for innovation and enterprise.
Josh Faulks, CEO of the Australian advertiser association (AANA), and Simon Michaelides, Director General of the UK advertiser association (ISBA), also join the leadership team.
Current members of the executive committee, David Wheldon, President and Philip Myers, Deputy President, who is also the Chief Institutional Affairs and Corporate Communications Officer at Ferrero, continue in their current roles, as do all regional vice presidents.
celebrity radar - gossips
Hold Peter Okoye Responsible If Any Harm Comes To Our Member – NASRE Fires Back At Singer
Hold Peter Okoye Responsible If Any Harm Comes To Our Member – NASRE Fires Back At Singer
The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) has raised alarm over an alleged threat by Afrobeat artist Peter Okoye (Mr P) against journalist and NASRE Directorate member, Mr Bayo Adetu, warning that the singer will be held responsible should any harm come to the journalist or his family.
In a press statement issued on April 20, 2026, NASRE’s leadership, led by Comrade Femi Oyewale, expressed concern over the incident reportedly occurring at the Ikoyi High Court during proceedings in the ongoing legal dispute involving P-Square and their elder brother, Jude Okoye.
NASRE views the alleged statement as inappropriate and unacceptable, stating that any language suggesting intimidation against a journalist performing lawful duties raises serious concerns about press freedom, safety, and professional ethics.
The association has therefore called on Mr Peter Okoye to retract the alleged statement and issue a public apology to Mr Bayo Adetu, while also urging all parties involved in the ongoing legal matter to conduct themselves with restraint, respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Read the statement below:
PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
NASRE RAISES ALARM OVER ALLEGED THREAT BY PETER OKOYE (MR P) AGAINST BAYO ADETU IN COURT, WARNS OF CONSEQUENCES
The leadership of the Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE), led by Comrade Femi Oyewale, expresses concern over an alleged threat issued by popular Afrobeat artist Peter Okoye, widely known as Mr P, against journalist and NASRE Directorate member, Mr Bayo Adetu.
The incident reportedly occurred at the Ikoyi High Court during proceedings in the ongoing legal dispute involving the music duo P-Square and their elder brother, Jude Okoye. Eyewitnesses present in court stated that Mr Peter Okoye drew the attention of Justice Alexander Owoeye to Mr Adetu’s presence, noting that he was formerly P-Square’s publicist but now works with his brothers. The remark reportedly generated reactions in the courtroom.
It is further alleged that after the court session, Mr Peter Okoye confronted Mr Adetu in the presence of others and said, “You, Bayo, I will set you up.”
NASRE views this alleged statement as inappropriate and unacceptable. Any language suggesting harm or intimidation directed at a journalist performing lawful duties raises serious concerns regarding press freedom, safety, and professional ethics.
We state unequivocally that should anything happen to Mr Bayo Adetu or any member of his family, Mr Peter Okoye will be held accountable. Such statements, when directed at a media professional, are taken with utmost seriousness.
NASRE will not tolerate any form of intimidation, harassment, or threat against its members. We are fully prepared to activate all lawful media and legal channels to protect our members and safeguard the integrity of the profession. Mr Peter Okoye must be aware that utterances of this nature carry consequences and he will be held responsible for any outcome arising from this matter.
We therefore call on Mr Peter Okoye to retract the alleged statement and issue a public apology to Mr Bayo Adetu. We also urge all parties involved in the ongoing matter to conduct themselves with restraint, respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
The safety of journalists remains paramount, and the media will not be silenced.
Signed:
Lateef Owodunni
Media Director, NASRE
April 20, 2026
celebrity radar - gossips
Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Addresses Prado Controversy, Says Vehicle Was Compensation — Not Political Gift
Fuji Star, Saheed Osupa Addresses Prado Controversy, Says Vehicle Was Compensation — Not Political Gift
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Nigerian Fuji star Saheed Osupa has responded to a wave of political controversy surrounding his recent campaign appearance in Oyo State, clarifying that a vehicle linked to the debate was not a political gift but compensation tied to a professional engagement.
The backlash followed the circulation of a Facebook Reel showing Osupa performing at an event associated with Sharafadeen Alli, who has declared interest in the Oyo State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC). As the video gained traction, it sparked renewed scrutiny over entertainers’ roles in political campaigns and the assumptions that often follow such appearances.
Amid the reactions, individuals aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) circulated claims on social media alleging that Osupa, alongside gospel artist Yinka Ayefele, had previously received luxury vehicles from the administration of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The claims, which remain unverified, framed the alleged gesture as an example of questionable public spending and raised concerns about political loyalty.
Osupa has since pushed back against that narrative, offering a different account of events. In a video statement, the artist explained that his involvement in the campaign was strictly professional, based on a negotiated performance agreement rather than any form of political alignment.
According to him, he was engaged to perform at campaign events with assurances that he would be adequately compensated after the election. He, however, alleged that those commitments were not fulfilled following the electoral victory.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the vehicle, Osupa stated that his personal car was damaged during the course of the campaign. He said the replacement vehicle later provided to him was intended as compensation for that loss, not a discretionary gift or political reward.
His response reframes the discussion from one of political patronage to a dispute over professional obligations—an important distinction in an environment where entertainers are frequently enlisted to support campaign visibility.
The episode highlights a recurring tension within Nigeria’s political landscape: the blurred line between performance and perceived allegiance. For artists, participation in campaign activities can quickly shift from paid engagement to public endorsement in the eyes of observers, particularly when details of such arrangements are not clearly communicated.
Osupa’s clarification brings that tension into focus, underscoring how easily professional engagements can be recast within political narratives. As conversations continue, the situation points to a broader need for transparency in the relationship between public figures and political actors—especially in moments where perception can carry as much weight as fact.
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