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If 27 Parties Are Ready, We Are Also Ready -INEC Reply Jegede

Published

8 years ago

November 25, 2016

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Saturday governorship election in Ondo State, Eyitayo Jegede, on Thursday, led protesters to the state office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) demanding for the postponement of the governorship election by four weeks.

Jegede, who was accompanied by mammoth crowd to the office of the INEC office, armed with a letter of request seeking for the postponement of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 26, in order to enable him fulfill and comply with the Electoral Act. (2010) as amended.

Jegede and some leaders of the party, including the State Party chairman, Clement Faboyede, were attended to by the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Segun Agbaje , who told Jegede and his entourage that they were denied entry into the premises of INEC because they staff of the Commission were busy distributing sensitive materials for tomorrow’s election.

Speaking to the REC, Jegede who drew the attention of the Commission to the Section 34, 45, and 74 of the Electoral Act of 2010 said the request became imperative to avoid some loopholes in the election process.

According to him, the PDP flag bearer, the Electoral Act made it mandatory for the electoral umpire to publish the names and addresses and political parties of each candidate contesting the election on the commission’s website and display such in their office.

He also noted that the Commission has not receive the names of his agents for the election saying ” the Electoral Act enjoins each political party to forward the names of its agents in each of the polling units to the commission at least seven days before the day of the election. We also refer to Section 74 of the Act which provides for every result sheet to be countersigned by polling agents.”

He however said ” We want all these corrected. We are asking INEC to shift the election and give me also the opportunity to enjoy the same rights and privileges that other political parties candidate have enjoyed. That is why we are here and that is why we are waiting for INEC response and I do hope they will give us the opportunity to formally make this presentation to him.

He said his counsel had written to the Commission earlier to inform the INEC of some provisions of the Electoral Act and said ” before now my counsel had written INEC to inform the Commission of what is needed to be done in line with the provision of the law . They have till date not reply the letter and we want to know what is the official position of INEC.

He queried INEC over the election saying “are they prepare to give a level playing ground or not? Are they also prepared to give the same opportunity they have given to other political parties and I have heard INEC spoke about conditions for postponement.These conditions are three, Violence, natural disaster or any other emergency but what we have here is legal emergency and it must be attended to. It’s not my fault, it is a legal emergency”

While responding, Agbaje said the Commission had taken notice of all the issues raised by Jegede and PDP and had forwarded it to the Commission headquarters in Abuja, but said the governorship election would go on in the state as scheduled.

Agbaje explained that all the sensitive materials needed for the election have been distributed to all the local government areas of the state, and disclosed that postponing the election would cost the nation a fortune.

He acknowledged receiving the Court order reinstating Jegede’s mandate and said the commission has replaced the Jimoh Ibrahim’s name with Jegede saying “the Commission has taken notice of all these issues, when we have the directive from the National headquarters, we have since pasted the name of the candidate on our notice board and also sent it across to all our office in all the local government “

He said the Commission should not be blamed for the party’s woes and explained the rationale behind dealing with Biyi Poroye’s group, and said the voters register had been handed over to the Jimoh Ibrahim faction.

He said “On the issue of voters register, the soft copy as far as the Commission is concern, was given to the party that the court directed us to deal with on the 28 of last month. When the judgement was given and the officials of the other faction of PDP came here the following day after the judgement, they were duly given, so as far as we are concern. PDP was given.
“This morning when we started the distribution of sensitive materials, the party agents was also among the agents who witnessed the collection and distribution of these materials to the local government areas
“I must be sincere with you that this election must go on and we are going to go ahead with the election on Saturday, the security agencies are ready. It is going to cost Nigeria serious financial implication.”
It is true that the party has crisis but the crisis is intra party crisis, it is not the fault of INEC and we have no control over the Judge that directed us to give the mandate of the party to one faction of the party and now that the Supreme Court had spoken and Appeal court has also given judgement, we have bowed to the order of the superior court”
Agbaje said further “The fact that we have two days in between the election and the fact that today is the last day for the campaign. This is not the fault of INEC but the fault of the party themselves because the first judgement was given in June, so I believe if the two faction had approached the Superior court that time, maybe it would have been something difference today.

“It is not the fault of INEC, if 27 parties are ready and we are also ready for the election and by now sensitive materials have gone out, even the chairman cannot call them back again because it means the government is going to spend millions of Naira to produce new set of sensitive materials.

“On the issue of party agents, as at about an hour ago about 17 local government have been received by our office and I am sure that the Electoral Officer must have given instructions to them on how to receive them in a very transparent manner.”
Similarly, the state Party Chairman, Faboyede, has asked INEC to postpone the election in order to give room to equity and fair play in the election.

Faboyede urged the Commission not to run foul of the electoral laws in the election, noting that the party has not submitted the names of the agents in the election while the voters register for the election has not been receive by the party

The PDP chairman who said that INEC is not ready for the election, said ” we don’t want to waste our time and energy on illegality, INEC should follow and employ Electoral Act and guidelines as stipulated by the electoral laws.”
Meanwhile, the Coalition of INEC Accredited Domestic Observers, has also called for the postponement of the Ondo state governorship election to ensure fairness, moral considerations and level playground.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Coordinator, Kalu Igwe said the call became necessary following the last minute Court judgement that affirmed the authentic candidate of PDP, Jegede.

The group urged INEC to consider postponing the election to enable the candidate of the PDP that was just cleared by the court to minimally prepare for the election.

Igwe said “The postponement of the election will douse political and security tension created by Justice Okon Abang Kangoroo judgement against Eyitayo Jegede’s candidature for the election. A judgement that threw the state into serious chaos; dividing the judiciary, our electoral system and the political class.

“While we have confidence on the commitment on our dear President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR in strengthening our democratic values, we urge him to see reasons with the good people of the State who are threatening to boycott the election should INEC go ahead with the election on Saturday and call the commission to order by postponing the election in consideration to the demands of the people.”

The group noted that some few hours to the election, politicians in the state have commenced buying of voters card in some areas of the state while it said ” It has also been reported that thumb-printing of ballot papers is ongoing in a local government within the coastal area of the state.

Also yesterday, the National Chairman of the Inter Party Advisory. Council of Nigeria Hon Muhammad Lawal Nalado called on political parties, contestants and the electorate to maintain high sense of civility and decorum in the course of their last minutes campaigns.

Addressing newsmen in Akure, Nalado advised against selling ‎their votes noting that doing so is ” mortgaging the future of your unborn generation and denying you the moral right to hold the winner accountable.

He pleaded with INEC and security agencies to conduct a credible and acceptable election and to perform their constitutional duties without bias

The chairman called on the electorate to vote for candidate that have articulated the numerous economic, social and political problems. And proffer solutions.

‎However, the state government has declared tomorrow as Public Holiday to enable workers prepare for Saturday’s governorship election.

This was contained in a statement issued by the state Head of Service, Toyin Akinkuotu, who directed all heads of MDAs to inform workers in their offices.‎

celebrity radar - gossips

Celebrating a Distinguished Patriot and Statesman: General Olu Bajowa @84

Published

4 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Celebrating a Distinguished Patriot and Statesman: General Olu Bajowa @84

Today, we gather in spirit and gratitude to celebrate a man whose life epitomizes selfless service, courage, and unwavering dedication to the progress of our nation, Nigeria. At 84, General Olu Bajowa, OFR, CFR stands as a towering symbol of patriotism, leadership, and philanthropy.

General Bajowa’s influence transcends the military. He has consistently provided wise counsel and leadership in public service, contributing meaningfully to national development. His voice remains a beacon of reason and vision, advocating for policies that uplift the Nigerian people and preserve the nation’s unity.

Born to Lubokun Royal family, at Igbotako Osooro in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, on 27th December 1940. Prince (Rtd) Major General (Dr) Sir Joseph Oluyemi Bajowa attended Anglican Elementary School, Igbotako, Manuwa Memorial Grammar School Iju-Odo, Okitipupa, Gboluji Anglican Grammar School, Ile-Oluji, Ondo. He finished his Secondary Education at Gboluji in 1959, and later attended Federal School of Science, Lagos 1960, for his “A” Levels. He worked as a civil Servant in the then Federal Ministry of Lands and Survey in Lagos and later as a 3rd Class Clerk in the Houses of Parliament, Lagos.

Professionally, General Olu Bajowa joined the Nigerian Army as a Cadet in training at the then Military College, now Nigerian Defence Academy Kaduna in September, 1960 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant at Mons Officer Cadet School, Aldershot, England in 1961. He was later attached to the British Army in the Rhine, Western Germany during the “Cold War”, after which he was posted to 4th Infantry Battalion of the Nigerian Army Ibadan in 1962 to start his Military Career.

He took part in the United Nations Peace keeping Operations in the Congo and the Nigerian Civil War. He climbed through the rungs of the Officer Corps to the rank of Major General and retired meritoriously from the Nigerian Army in 1980 at the age of 40 years.

Amongst the appointments held while in Military Service were Platoon Commander, Military Transport Officer, General Staff Officer Grade 111 and General Officer Grade 11 both at Army Headquarters, Ministry of Defence, Lagos, Company Commander, Brigade Major, Battalion Commander, General Staff Officer Grade 1 at 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters, Brigade Commander, Acting General Officer Commanding 3 Infantry Division of the Nigerian Army, Adjutant General of the Nigerian army, and Quarter-Master-General of the Nigerian Army both at Ministry of Defence, Lagos. He was also Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. Jaji-Kaduna, (1978-1979).

Significantly, He was on active service in Western Germany with the British Army in 1961, during the “Cold War”. He served two tours in the United Nations Operation in Congo with 4 BN NA in 1962, at Kinshasha, and in 1963 at Leopoville (now Zaire) with 1st BN NA. He took active part in the Nigerian civil War. Infact he was the one as the Commanding Officer 11 BN NA at Iwo road Ibadan, Olusegun Obasanjo ordered to move his Battalion on 9th August 1976 from Ibadan to defend the Western Region Boarder at Ofusu/Owena River bridge, to prevent the incursion of the 101st Division of the Biafran Army during its advance to capture Ibadan and Lagos and occupy Western Region, after the fall of Benin City and Mid-Western Region, in a Biafran Army lighting operation of 101st Division of the Biafran Army. He held the Ofusu/Owena Bridge and fought in the legendry Ore Battle (“Ija Ore, Oleku”). He miraculously survived four (4) coups while in military service and three (3) coups after his recall from retirement, to serve the nation in different capacities, during the Military Interregnum.

On the Military-Political Front, he was a Military Member of the Executive Council of the then Western State of Nigeria, Military Member of the Executive Council and Acting Military Governor of the Southeastern State (now Cross River and Akwa Ibom States); and also Acting Military Governor of Rivers State (now Rivers and Bayelsa States).

After retirement from the Nigerian Army, he went into business, politics and later into academics. He enrolled into the University of Lagos in 1983, where he obtained Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with Second Class Honours, Upper Division, (2.1) in 1988. He was awarded Doctor of Theology by the Theological Seminary, Durban, South Africa, in London, 2005, in affiliation with Trinity University and College, Delaware, USA and he has currently enrolled for Bachelor of Law Degree, University of London, England.

He was a Member of the Governing Council of Ondo State University (1981/1982) and in 1983 he was
appointed Chairman Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria. He was also appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of Nigeria Airways Limited in January 1988. Sole Administrator of Nigeria Airways Limited in October same year and Managing Director and Member of the Presidential Task Force of Nigeria Airways Limited (1988-1989). He was later appointed as Special Assistant in the Presidency and Co-ordinator Movement of Seat of Government and Federal Ministries from Lagos to Abuja. He was appointed the Director-General/Permanent Secretary, Deputy Minister Ministry of Defence in 1990-1993 and Permanent Secretary, Federal ministry of Industry in 1993-1997, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Science and Technology from 1997-1999, and Chairman of all related Companies and Parastatals of the Ministries.

His decorations include Medals of the United Nations Peace Keeping Operations in the Congo, The Nigerian civil war. Forces Meritorious Service Star (FSS) in 1983, and Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (OFR), in recognition of his Military Service (1960 -1980), and gazette in 1998 for the honour of Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR), in recognition of his Federal Civil Service (1988 – 1999). He is a Distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Security Nigeria (dfisn).

In recognition of General Olu Bajowa’s contribution to the security and development of Ikale-Land, his people honoured him with the Chieftaincy titles of Jagunmolu of Ikale-Land and Ojagbulegun from The Source (Ayeka Kingdom), and Ajagungbade of Idepe-Okitipupa, Ondo State of Nigeria. He was a Member of the Board of Governors of International Foundation for Science (IFS) in Stockholm, Sweden, and also Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy, (1997-1999). He creditably concluded his tenure as the Chairman of Programmes and Budget Committee (PBC) of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in Vienna, Austria, a post he held for one year (1997/1998).

He is a sports enthusiast, philanthropist and happily married with children. He is an author and had to his credits four (4) books, namely: Spring of a Life, Ikale, Soldier by Choice and Egbaiyelo (Legacy of a legend).

General Bajowa’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and heritage is equally commendable. As a proud custodian of tradition, he has tirelessly championed initiatives to celebrate and protect the rich cultural tapestry of his people.

As he celebrates this remarkable milestone, we reflect on a life well-lived—a life devoted to God, country, and humanity. At 84, General Olu Bajowa remains an icon of hope and inspiration, a symbol of resilience, and a beacon of wisdom.

On behalf of friends, family, and admirers across the globe, we wish General Olu Bajowa a happy 84th birthday. May your days be filled with continued joy, good health, and fulfillment. Your legacy shines brightly, and we are forever grateful for your immeasurable contributions to our nation and beyond.

DARE ADELEKAN

celebrity radar - gossips

Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

Published

11 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

In a heartwarming gesture of generosity, Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi on Thursday, December 26, brought immense joy to over 2,000 children in the bustling city of Ajegunle, Lagos. The festive spirit filled the air as the star athlete, alongside local dignitaries and notable figures, made Christmas unforgettable for the children in this vibrant community.

The grand event, held at the Maracana Sports Centre, was a collaborative effort between Ndidi, renowned businessman Yemi Idowu, Fatai Ayoola, the chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, and the traditional ruler of Iwa and Apapa, Mohammed Amodu-Tijani. The Boxing Day children’s party became a major highlight of the Christmas season in Ajegunle, attracting widespread attention from locals and the media.

Despite currently sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Ndidi took the time to give back to the community in a deeply personal way. The 28-year-old midfielder was seen serving food to the excited children and distributing gifts, bringing smiles and happiness to everyone present. His presence at the event served as an uplifting reminder of the power of generosity and community spirit.

Speaking to the crowd, Ndidi explained that his own childhood experiences were a driving force behind the initiative. “I feel like it’s a festive period and these kids deserve something like this. It’s something they will have to remember and the memory sticks with them,” Ndidi said, his voice filled with sincerity.

He continued, “The happiness on the faces of the children can’t be explained. When you do something for adults, the emotions stay with them only, but when you do something for kids, the adults see it as well, so they also try to do the same. All we are trying to do is to create memories, and I’m happy to be doing this because some of us didn’t have this experience while growing up. I grew up in the barracks like most people know. This is not about football now. Schools are on break and this is a time to create memories, especially among kids.”

The event was not only about the celebration but also about fostering a sense of unity and shared joy. Yemi Idowu, CEO of Cana Sports, expressed his admiration for Ndidi’s involvement. “This is part of something we do every year to try and celebrate with the kids, especially because we are here in Ajegunle and they are friends. I am very happy to have the king, the chairman, and Wilfred to support us in doing this. It has a bigger impact when we all work together.”

The Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Fatai Ayoola, commended the collective effort to bring smiles to the faces of the children. He highlighted the meticulous organization that made the event a success, explaining, “What we have done is to first accredit them from the LGA secretariat and we drove the kids into this venue. We also made arrangements for those who would come unannounced at the Maracana Park, and they would equally be taken care of as much as those inside so we can have a perfect party. It’s a back-to-back celebration for the kids of Ajegunle, and we are elated to host Ndidi. This month alone, we have had three visitors who have given the kids befitting Christmas gifts. So, what we are doing is to make them happy in grand style.”

The event served as a beautiful reminder of the true essence of Christmas — bringing people together, spreading joy, and creating lasting memories. For the children of Ajegunle, it was a day filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments, thanks to the unwavering commitment of Wilfred Ndidi and his collaborators.

As the community continues to celebrate the season, the impact of Ndidi’s kind gesture will no doubt be felt for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be part of the festivities.

celebrity radar - gossips

Nollywood Star Omoborty Seals Her Love Story with a Stunning Legal Wedding

Published

12 hours ago

December 27, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Nollywood Star Biodun Okeowo, “Omoborty,” Officially Ties the Knot in Legal Ceremony

Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Biodun Okeowo, widely known as Omoborty, has officially tied the knot with her partner in a heartfelt legal ceremony. The event, which comes months after their traditional wedding, was held on a significant day for the actress—her birthday.

Omoborty took to Instagram to share the joyous news, posting stunning photos from the ceremony. The images captured the love and joy of the occasion, which marked a new chapter in her life.

“In the euphoria of my birthday, I’m thrilled to share the memories from one of the most beautiful days of my life. The day I legally said ‘yes’ to the man of my heart before God and man,” she wrote in her caption.

The actress emphasized that all necessary customs and protocols were observed, expressing pride in her journey to becoming “Mrs. Biodun Sofuyi.” Reflecting on the milestone, she added, “My first wedding, and by God’s grace, the last. Amen.”

Omoborty’s fans and colleagues have since flooded her social media pages with congratulatory messages and heartfelt well-wishes, celebrating her new status as a legally married woman.

The actress, known for her captivating performances and entrepreneurial spirit, continues to inspire with her authenticity and joy. With this union, she embarks on a fresh chapter filled with hope, love, and the blessings of a bright future.