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BREAKING THE CAMEL’S BACK! By Zailani Bappa

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4 years ago

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The great people of Bakura have finally spoken. It is the voice awaited nationwide to decide who owns Zamfara politics today. It all started like a teaser. The Bye-election in Bakura Constituency slated for end of last October was ordinary to the ordinary Zamfara person. It is one of 24 such unit elections in the state in terms of Democratic representation.

 

 

However, every cloth has its own tailor. The People’s Democratic Party in the State had the seat before it’s representative died. (May his soul rest in perfect peace). In ordinary parlance, the election to fill into the vacant position is best left for the people of that unit to decide without a political fuss. But that’s not how it was allowed to be. It was inadvertently catapulted into an object of statewide show political prowess, drawing a national face to it by the All People’s Congress in the state.

 

 

Yes, as the build up to the elections gathered, which was later re-scheduled to the first week of December, the APC, led by former Governor Abdulazeez Yari bounced from surface to the gutter, drawing the attention of the World to this election in utmost confidence of winning the competition. It was an opportunity for them to show the world that the APC was still in control of the State political terrain. After all, they say, the PDP did not win the election but was in power by the fiat of the Court verdict. It was an opportunity granted by God to show the World that the APC holds the four aces and will still win an election anytime in Zamfara State.

 

 

As the campaign to hold the elections built up, Abdulazeez Yari and his team jumped from one APC state to another seeking confidence, support and cash. They bulldozed the state with a lot of dirty antics and many wrongs. They campaigned dirty and nasty. The Matawalle-led PDP kept its cool. After all, the whole thing is temporary and the elections would soon be over. As the campaign curtain began to draw, Yari invited dignitaries including state Governors, serving Senators, serving Ministers, National Assembly members and heavy political stalwarts all for the tiny Bakura Constituency elections. Matawalle must be intimidated, he must know he’s not in control, Yari promised.

 

 

The first blow against this discredited despot was that all these dignitaries failed to honour his invitation. When they came, they unleashed mayhem at Bakura town and environs in the name of rounding-up their campaigns. Their thugs slaughtered two known PDP supporters, injured many and burnt property. This was in spite of the law as the Police had earlier announced a suspension of all campaign rally and imposed a 24-hour curfew to forestall any possible breach of the peace. Still, the Matawalle led PDP kept its cool to avoid loss of lives.

 

 

Now, the D-day came. The day of reckoning was here. It was a day to decide, not only the Bakura election, but who now triumphs in a free and fair contest in the state between the loser APC and the so-called Court winner PDP. Both Parties were fully represented at the constituency. The votes started and ended peacefully. But, alas, INEC said the elections were inconclusive as they cancelled the votes of 14 polling units with more than 11,000 votes at stake. Even then, the PDP was leading with more than 2000 votes. As the 14 wards where the votes were cancelled also represent a stronghold of PDP, the Yari group became beaten-up and fully neutralised.

 

 

INEC then, declared Wednesday, the 9th of December as Re-run election day to conclude the inconclusive. To save its battered pride, the APC called a Press Conference and a withdrawal from the race citing reasons from the absurd to the laughable.

 

 

Now, today is the D-day. Elections held peacefully with all political parties participating except the APC who made good its promise not to be there. The Bakura people made a decision. A decision that will go down into posterity as a final straw that broke the Camel’s back. The APC lost woefully to the PDP and, tail between the legs, the APC run out of sight.The PDP has won.

 

 

However, the Bakura bye-election contains very many significant lessons. The major lesson to learn and imbibe is the need for the APC to accept the Will of God. Everyone has his own time. And the Will of God is that Matawalle today, is His choice and that his gladiating political prowess and structure is now built and is shining like the lone northern star, permanently fixed in the firmament.

Bappa writes from Gusau.

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

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8 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

 

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

 

 

In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.

 

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.

 

 

 

“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”

 

 

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”

 

 

 

Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.

 

 

 

As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.

 

 

 

In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.

 

 

 

As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

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13 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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OGSTEP Empowers Over 15,000 Artisans and Traders with Skills Development

The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has successfully trained over 15,000 artisans and traders as part of its ongoing skills development initiative under the Ogun State Skills Fund (OSF).
This was disclosed by the Skills Development Specialist, Engr. Adesegun Fatoki, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He revealed that the training program recorded 6,605 participants in Vocational/ICT skills, 4,989 in Entrepreneurship, and 5,288 in Functional Literacy Training.
Engr. Fatoki explained that the OSF training is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage their income and businesses. “So far, over 4,000 beneficiaries have completed their training in the first batch, while the second batch is currently underway across various trades. The third phase will target market women, artisans, and traders, bringing the initiative closer to grassroots communities,” he stated.
He encouraged artisans, market women, and traders to register for the ongoing third batch of the training by visiting www.osf.ogunstate.gov.ng. He assured that the program focuses on demand-driven skills and operates at various training centers across the state.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment to the program’s success, Engr. Fatoki reassured stakeholders that the initiative is non-partisan and designed solely for the benefit of market women, artisans, and traders.
In response, representatives of various groups expressed gratitude to the state government for the initiative and pledged to mobilize their members to take part in the training.
Speaking earlier, the Project Gender Specialist, Mrs. Ewajesu, highlighted the program’s goal of empowering artisans and traders with critical skills to thrive in today’s competitive economic landscape. She explained that the training also improves participants’ literacy and business management capabilities, enhancing productivity and strengthening the state’s economy.
Mrs. Ewajesu urged participants to make the most of the opportunity, noting that the skills acquired would position them for greater success in their respective trades.
The meeting was attended by representatives from the Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba Traders’ Associations, who expressed optimism about the program’s positive impact on their communities.

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

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20 hours ago

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December 21, 2024

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Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

Ibadan Funfair Tragedy: Ooni’s Ex-Queen Hospitalised as IG Leads Probe into Stampede

 

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has taken over investigations into the tragic stampede at a children’s funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured. The incident occurred when over 7,500 participants, far exceeding the expected 5,000, rushed to gain entry to the event.

The funfair was reportedly organised by Prophetess Naomi Silekunola, the former queen of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Ibadan-based broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat.

Naomi, who was arrested alongside Hamzat, reportedly collapsed on Friday and was rushed to the Police Hospital at Eleyele for medical attention. A senior hospital staff member confirmed the development, stating, “Both of them are currently at the hospital. The police have secured the premises, and no further details can be disclosed.”

Eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to Oyo State Police Command spokesperson Adewale Osifeso. A police source revealed that the Inspector General of Police has now taken charge of the case, stating, “For further details, you’ll need to contact Abuja.”

Victims and Medical Response

The Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council at Adeoyo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Adeoye Allen-Taylor, confirmed that four children remain on admission. He added that some casualties were brought in dead and that the Oyo State Government is covering all medical expenses.

At the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, five fatalities were reported, though none of the bodies were taken to the hospital’s mortuary. The Public Relations Officer of UCH, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the death toll.

Government and Public Reactions

In response, the Oyo State Government mandated strict safety measures for all public events, especially those involving children and the elderly. Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Dotun Oyelade, warned event organisers of severe penalties for compromising public safety.

Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the tragedy as “painful and preventable,” announced the cancellation of his December 25th birthday celebrations to honor the victims. “There will be no birthday celebration this year. I will remain indoors to reflect,” the governor stated while receiving a condolence delegation from the South-East PDP, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara.

Condolences from PDP and Fayemi

The South-West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed its condolences to the Oyo State Government and families of the victims. PDP Publicity Secretary Chief Sanya Atofarati attributed the tragedy to economic hardships, which he said pushed families to seek free entertainment for their children.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, also extended his sympathies, urging authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The investigation continues, as authorities work to uncover the causes of the tragedy and ensure accountability.

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