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APC Govs Meet Chief Odigie-Oyegun, Saraki To Resolve party Crisis

Published

9 years ago

November 3, 2016

There have been calls on the party’s national chairman chief Odigie Oyegun whose tenure expires in 2018, to resign for hos purported inability to resolve the crisis rocking the party.Governors elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) moved to address the grievances in the party which are threatening its cohesion.

Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) and Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, who met with the Odigie-Oyegun-led APC National Working Committee (NWC) yesterday, said the party leadership needs to make some amendments to enable the party forge ahead.
Okorocha also met with the Senate President Bukola Saraki and House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara where he said President Muhammadu Buhari would soon meet the APC leaders to address the problems in the party.
The APC has moved from one crisis to another since it took over as ruling party from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in May last year. The crisis started with the emergence of Saraki and Dogara against the wish of the party.
Some chieftains of the party have accused Oyegun of not exerting his influence on how the country is being run.
Recently, the party’s National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asked Oyegun to resign, accusing him of working against democratic fair play in the handling of APC governorship primary in Ondo State, which produced Rotimi Akeredolu as the party’s candidate.
Besides, the APC is yet to have a Board of Trustees (BoT), which is seen as a serious setback for a ruling party.
While fielding questions from journalists after a closed door meeting, Okorocha said the talks focused on the need to restructure the party and ensure unity among its members.
“We noticed that there is so much bitterness among the ranks and members of our party and there is a need for communication and dialogue because where there is no communication and dialogue, war is inevitable,” he said.
“You may recall that it was the same National Working Committee (NWC) and these party leaders that saw us through during the last election. What that means is that these people were good enough. I want to assure them that no one will bully them out or hush them out. But there is need to make amendment which is natural with any human organisation.
“So, the party will be restructured for the purpose of making it stronger and to move forward as a people and as a party,” Okorocha said.
When asked to explain what he meant by party restructuring, he said: “No one is going to boot anybody out. Where there is need for amendment, we shall make amendment in order to save the party and move it forward.
“In every human organization, it comes a time when they restructure. It could be to add more people, it could be to strengthen the party at all levels. And, of course, you know that these people are duly elected people, whose tenure will expire by 2018. So, where there is need for restructuring, restructure.
“I have come to reassure them, because sometimes, when you have the fear or worry that you are not stable, you begin to react in a negative way. But if you know you are stable, you will put in your best,” he said. He said “I came here for a call for unity. The governors are willing to show leadership in this regard by making sure all the members of the NWC, the APC governors and National Assembly work together to ensure the unity of our party.”
On party funding, he said the APC leadership intended to ensure that every member sponsored the party, saying “we want to make sure that every stakeholder will be part of it. It is not a question of whether the governors will sponsor the party or the President.”
After the meeting, Okorocha also met with Senate President Bukola Saraki over the party’s crisis.
He told newsmen that “Nigerians expect so much from us but yet we seem to be in crisis within ourselves. Not crisis made by the opposition parties but crisis created by ourselves for ourselves and which has kept us in total difficult position that we are not making the headway we need to make as a party.
“One wonders then what went wrong. Where did we get it wrong? And after these troubles and after the much hope we have given to Nigerians, we still cannot work together as a party, as a family.”
“So, I am here Mr. President of the Senate to call for unity among us and our party. And to sheath our sword in whatever form anger has gotten to us.
“We noticed and we know that we are a party in majority at the National Assembly and we are a party with majority in the number of governors – state houses of assembly – but we notice there is no cordial relationship between the Governors, the Executive and the legislature,” he said.
He said President Buhari has also agreed to address the leadership of the APC.
“But before then, I think all the rough edges must be smoothened,” he said.
Responding, Saraki said the APC National Assembly caucus would look into all the issues raised.
After a closed door meeting with the House leadership led by Dogara, Okorocha said he had dialogued with the National Working Committee of the party, members in the Senate and House of Representatives and was certain that there would at the end of the tunnel

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Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

Published

2 weeks ago

April 13, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Ajadi Visits Ilaji Resort, Commends Sanusi’s Vision for Oyo’s Economic Growth

The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has lauded the transformative impact of private-sector investment on the state’s economy, following a courtesy visit to Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort in Akanran, Ibadan.

Ajadi, who was warmly received on Sunday by the resort’s founder, Chief Dr Dotun Sanusi, described the facility as a symbol of what visionary leadership and indigenous enterprise can achieve in driving rural development, job creation, and tourism growth.

Speaking during the visit, Ajadi commended Sanusi’s commitment to Oyo State’s economic advancement, noting that Ilaji Resort stands as a model for sustainable development outside urban centres.

“What I have seen here today is not just a business venture, but a bold statement of belief in Oyo State’s potential,” Ajadi said. “Chief Sanusi has demonstrated that with vision, dedication, and strategic investment, we can transform our rural communities into thriving economic hubs. This aligns perfectly with my agenda to expand opportunities, empower our people, and sustain development across the state.”
[4/13, 6:34 PM] johnsonakinpelu: The PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised that his governorship ambition is rooted in supporting initiatives that promote local enterprise, tourism, and youth employment, adding that partnerships between government and private investors would be a priority if elected.

In his remarks, Sanusi, popularly known as Ilaji, expressed delight at hosting Ajadi and his entourage, describing the visit as encouraging for investors in the state.

“I am honoured to receive Ambassador Ajadi here at Ilaji Resort,” Sanusi said. “This project was born out of a desire to give back to society, create jobs for our youths, and showcase the rich cultural and tourism potential of Oyo State. When leaders recognise and support such efforts, it strengthens our resolve to do more.”

Sanusi further stressed the importance of continuity in governance and policies that encourage investment, noting that consistent support from government actors is crucial for long-term economic growth.

The visit also attracted notable political stakeholders, including the former Ona-Ara Local Government Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Oke, Hon. Bass Oloko, and Ajadi’s personal assistant, Kilamuwaye Badmus, among others.

Observers at the event described the meeting as a convergence of political leadership and entrepreneurial vision, highlighting the growing importance of collaboration in addressing developmental challenges in Oyo State.

Analysts see Ajadi’s visit to Ilaji Resort as part of his broader engagement with key stakeholders across sectors, as he continues to build momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

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FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

Published

1 month ago

March 24, 2026

Sahara Weekly

FOPCHEN Calls for Dialogue as Court Fixes May 28 for Continuation

OTA, OGUN STATE — Proceedings in a widely followed legal case resumed on March 24, 2026, at the High Court of Ogun State, Ota Division, ending with a fresh adjournment as the court fixed May 28, 2026, for continuation.

During the session, legal representatives for all parties restated their positions and addressed preliminary matters, laying the groundwork for more substantive arguments at the next hearing. Observers noted that the case continues to attract significant public attention due to its perceived implications for law, culture, and societal values.

The Foundation for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Nigeria (FOPCHEN) used the occasion to reiterate its call for constructive national dialogue. The group emphasized that while the judicial process must be respected, broader societal engagement remains essential.

According to the organization, issues relating to values, responsibility, and cultural identity should not be confined solely to courtroom deliberations but should involve active participation from various sectors of society.
Legal analysts present at the proceedings described the matter as one with far-reaching implications, noting that arguments advanced in court could shape future interpretations surrounding sensitive cultural and moral questions.

The presiding judge subsequently adjourned the case to May 28, granting all parties time to refine their submissions and respond to issues raised during the hearing.

As anticipation builds ahead of the next court date, Nigerians across different sectors continue to monitor developments closely, keen to see how the judiciary navigates the delicate balance between constitutional rights and cultural expectations.

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CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023

Published

2 months ago

March 8, 2026

Sahara Weekly

CRG: Politicians Must Stop Witch-Hunting, Focus on Nation Building — Says NYSC Cleared Deputy Speaker Since 2023

By: Boye Ola

The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has called on political actors and interest groups to desist from what it described as needless witch-hunting of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, following renewed controversies surrounding his National Youth Service Corps records.

The organisation noted that the clarification by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) regarding the matter is not a recent development, as a formal verification letter had already been issued as far back as May 23, 2023.

The letter, referenced NYSC/CCD/VER/10/5.1/VOL1/02, had already addressed and cleared the questions surrounding the Deputy Speaker’s NYSC records.

Reacting to the renewed debate, the spokesman of the Centre,

Obande George, said it was troubling that issues which had already been clarified by a competent national institution were being resurrected for political purposes.

According to him, the time has come for political actors to move away from destructive engagements and concentrate on building the nation.

“It is important to note that the NYSC had already issued a verification letter dated May 23, 2023 addressing the matter.

Reopening issues that have already been clarified by a competent authority suggests that some individuals are more interested in political witch-hunting than in national progress,” George said.

The CRG stressed that democracy thrives when institutions are respected and their determinations are accepted in good faith rather than constantly questioned for political advantage.

George also commended the Deputy Speaker for demonstrating maturity and composure throughout the controversy, despite what he described as sustained provocations.

“Honourable Benjamin Kalu has shown remarkable calm and maturity in the face of intense public scrutiny and political provocation.

Instead of engaging in unnecessary public confrontation, he allowed institutions to speak through their records.”

The Centre warned that Nigeria’s political culture must evolve beyond constant character attacks and sensational allegations, which often distract public officials from their responsibilities.

According to the organisation, the country’s development requires constructive engagement among political actors rather than continuous attempts to discredit opponents.

“Nigeria cannot move forward if political energy is constantly spent on digging up allegations and amplifying rumours. Our leaders and political actors must redirect their focus to governance, policy and nation building.”

CRG therefore urged Nigerians to rely on verified information from credible institutions and avoid spreading speculative claims that could damage reputations or destabilise public discourse.

The organisation reiterated that respect for due process and institutional integrity remains essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.