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Election: Knight of Saint Mulumba cautions against vote buying, selling

Published

6 years ago

September 26, 2018

Popular Catholic religious group, the Knight of Saint Mulumba Nigeria (KSM) has advised all registered voters to reject the lure of selling and buying of their votes by selfish politicians as doing so will be tantamount to mortgaging their destinies and those of their Children.

It also urged voters not to allow themselves to be used as political thugs or agents of destabilization.

KSM in a statement in Lagos signed by its Supreme Knight, Brother Diamond Ovueraye said Nigerians should not exchange good governance for filthy lucre.

“Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong. Therefore, we urged all Nigerians, to register and obtain their voters cards, think wisely before you vote, shun any form of inducement, be an active participant in the affairs of your communities, engage your representatives defend your votes and be unceasing in your prayers for Nigeria,” he said.

Ovueraye encouraged registered voters to choose their leaders with wisdom and forethought noting “If you register to vote, you automatically have power in your hands to vote out any corrupt, insensitive and underperforming government”.

He also urged the media, as part of its civic role to create and shape public opinion, educate and strengthen society, to act against the injustice, oppression, misdeeds and partiality in the society.

Ephasizing the role of religious leaders in the 2019 elections, Ovueraye stated that aside religious leaders acting as moral compasses in shaping attitudes, opinions and behaviours of their members who hold them in high esteem, are not only leaders of their own faiths communities but they are also interlocutors between the leaders and followers of other faith. In other words, they must thus acquire a deeper and sympathetic understanding of other faiths. This will without doubt tone down the religio-political challenges in out polity.”

Ovueraye urged Nigerians to live the ideals of patriotism. “Patriotism, as Theodore Roosevelt notes, means to stand by your country. It doesn’t mean to stand by the president, governor, senator or any other public official, save exactly to the degree in which he himself stands by the country. It is patriotic to support him insofar as he efficiently serves the country. It is unpatriotic not to oppose him to the exact extent that by inefficiency or otherwise, he fails in his duty to stand by the country,” he added.

Expressing the concerns of KSM for the 2019 elections, Ovueraye explained: “KSM is a Catholic religious organization, guided by the cherished values of working towards a high sense of order and discipline, are very concerned about the tone of politics, as we have seen a decline in civility and bipartisanship and a rapid increase in hostility between those who have differing opinions. We think this has led to the alienation of the public in governance which jeopardizes democratic participation.

“We know that progress comes from the intelligent use of experience and this experience tells us that the countries that have the best economic growth are those that have good governance, freedom of speech and a good education system. Good governance comes from freedom of communication where leaders break down beaurocratic barriers enabling the led to embrace their vision, initiative, or assignment in a way that the citizens feel a sense of purpose, ownership, personal engagement and common cause.

“But first we have to win the fight against poverty. Second, we must improve moral standards in government and in society to provide a strong foundation for good governance. Third, we must change the character of our politics to promote fertile ground for reforms.”

He expressed reservations over people’s unpleasant attitudes towards the general election, saying the inept leadership over the years has made people to develop apathy.

“It is worrying that on account of our rather unsavoury democratic experience, people are already aloof as our democracy has become a license to indulge individual whims and proclivities. But aren’t we all guilty of one or more of the short-comings in our polity, like; – cash for votes, shunning the democratic process/abstaining from voting, intolerance of opposing views, not registering for voters’ cards, not speaking out and condemning injustice, any form of electoral malpractice, oppression and repression in whatever guise”, Ovueraye stated.

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Prophet Ikuru bombarded with calls from opposition parties to join them against 2027

Published

6 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sahara Weekly

By Collins Nkwocha

Prophet Godwin Ikuru has cemented his position as one of the leading prophets on the African continent, as an integral part of APC , the prophetic hall of fame never hid his love for the president, Ahmed Bola Tinubu whom he prognosticated into power and fought several battles for his sake

It’s alarming to discover that several political parties are wooing the handsome prophet against 2027 as they believe that his true potential is being underutilised in APC who left him without a portfolio,they kept bombarding him with numerous calls for him to leave the ruling party and join them against 2027

Despite the numerous calls and emissaries sent by the opposition parties,the prophetic hall of fame has kept faith with APC because of the unending love he has for Mr.president,Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he’s willing to remain with him despite all the happenings and odds.

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

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

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.

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.

Business

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal

…As Dangote Refinery partners MRS to sell PMS at N935 per litre nationwide at its retail outlets

Sahara Weekly Unveils That The Foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira for crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, which has led to reduction in prices of petroleum products in the country.

To provide succour to Nigerians, Dangote recently reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N970 to N899.50 at its Refinery loading gantry and provided generous credit terms to marketers.

“To ensure that this price reduction gets to the end consumer, we have signed a partnership with MRS to sell petrol from its retail outlets nationwide at N935 per litre” he added. This price has already commenced in Lagos, and it will be offered nationwide from Monday.

In his statement, he called on other oil marketers such as the NNPC Retail and all other marketers, “to work with us to ensure that Nigerians enjoy high-quality petrol at discounted prices.”

According to him, “The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will therefore continue to work with various value chain players to deliver high quality petrol at cheaper prices. Our aim is for all Nigerians to have ready access to high quality petroleum products that are good for their vehicles, good for their health, and good for their pockets.

Recall that in September, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of Mr. President approved the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira and corresponding purchase of petroleum products in Naira. The move, which commenced on October 1, led to reduced pressure on the dollar and ensured the stability of the local currency.

Dangote thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support and the government for creating an enabling environment for the domestic refining industry.