Politics

Obasanjo stresses need for effective management of population in Africa

Published

6 years ago

February 22, 2019

Obasanjo: A living legend - Gov. Abiodun

Obasanjo at the Africa Progress Group (APG) organized international round table session, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Abeokuta, on Wednesday, said the call became imperative in order to assure improved socio-economic development of the continent.
The former President and Chairman of the APG explained that the Roundtable session, with the theme: “Making Africa Population An Asset Rather Than A Liability” said the discussions had become necessary in order to sensitise African governments and other stakeholders within and outside the region on the need for effective management of the population to assure improved socio-economic development of the continent.
Obasanjo specifically observed that the growing and unmanaged population was fuelling terrorism within the region, particularly the Boko-Haram insurgency in Nigeria.
He recalled that 25 of 26 arrested members of the Boko-Haram interviewed by him said they joined the sect while they were in search of job with only one admitting that he joined for religious reasons.
In a communique signed the the APG Director, Prof. Peter Okebukolaparticipants affirmed that “Africa’s population can be an asset not when we are able to feed the citizenry and provide good quality of life but when that population can make meaningful contribution to the entire socio-political economy society.
“To ensure that Africa’s population is an asset to development, after careful consideration of successful practices in managing populations across the world, participants recommended to African leaders as follows:
1. Enthronement and promotion of competent, efficient and effective governance should be top priority for African countries as this is the lever for development and for turning the continent’s population into an asset.2. Based on the power of education in the successful management of populations, educational systems in African countries should be overhauled paying special attention to access to education (Education for all), education of women and girls, entrepreneurship and ensuring relevance of education delivered to the needs of the society. We need better harmonisation of Islamic education and Western education as successfully practised in a number of Islamic countries including Tunisia, Egypt and Indonesia.3. Invest in culturally-compliant family planning procedures, showcasing, publicising and rewarding successful practices.4. Step up public health and environmental awareness to ensure that even with large populations liability of population on health and environmental security will be mitigated 5. Emphasise participation in agriculture, especially mechanised agriculture to foster food and nutrition security even with large populations.6. Improve primary, secondary and tertiary healthcare delivery systems to keep the population healthy and productive.7. Publicise and raise awareness of religious provisions that encourage practices that will slow down population growth rate.8. There must be a decision on the type of society we want especially fostering and managing egalitarianism. What is normal in every African society is the culture of sharing and caring. This culture should be universally encouraged.9. Knowledge and experience sharing of good practices in managing populations among countries in Africa and elsewhere in the world should be encouraged.10. Although the problem of population of Africa today and in the immediate future looks daunting, there are possible approaches that can access globally available resources now lying dormant. One of such approaches is harnessing permanent capital from investment markets. Governments should explore the implementation of the novel, doable idea of permanent capital to address the resource-demand of managing populations. Permanent capital is based on frameworks to address the demographic challenge relating especially to educational, political, cultural and social dimensions. To make the approach work, radical reforms are needed to the policy and regulatory environment. Reduction in overall frictional costs of doing business should also part of the reform.
They also called for enactment and enforcement of state policies “that take care of the elderly so that Asset-based and life course approach to managing Africa’s population can be optimally applied.12. Government in close cooperation with civil society and business should create an enabling environment and policies to support the building of skills and creation of jobs 13. Access to low-interest loans and supporting cooperatives
Key recommendations to Development Partners include
14. Support capacity-building efforts of African governments on good practices of managing populations through technical and funding assistance.15. Use final APG report on the theme as instrument for lobbying both in the north and south so that the SDGs are achieved.
Reaching religious leaders
16. Population management is a sensitive issue which should be approached with caution. Those to be engaged in its propagation through faith-based activities should be those who have the right perspective of the concept.

Politics

Governor Alex Otti Uncovers Real ‘Sponsors’ Behind Gunmen Attacks

Published

8 hours ago

November 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Governor Alex Otti Uncovers Real ‘Sponsors’ Behind Gunmen Attacks

The Abia state governor Alex Otti has unveiled those behind the frequent gunmen attacks in the state.
“The sole agenda is to cause disaffection and distract the government from its focus on the development of the state,” Otti said.

Governor Alex Otti accuses opposition politicians, with external support, of sponsoring violence in Abia State.

Attacks, including the killing of soldiers and police, aim to destabilize the government and distract from its development agenda

Otti promises a “counter-offensive” to eradicate criminal activities and maintain peace in the state

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has accused opposition politicians, in collaboration with external parties, of being behind the recent wave of insecurity in the state.

The governor’s statement comes amid rising gunmen attacks and violence in the region, which has raised concerns among residents and security officials alike.

Legit.ng reported that on Wednesday, 13, November two Nigerian soldiers were killed at a checkpoint on the Umuahia-Owerri Road in Ekeneobizi, Umuahia South Local Government Area.

Another attack occurred on Sunday, November 16, when gunmen killed a police officer during an assault on the convoy of a Nigerian lawmaker.

While the Nigerian government has accused the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) of orchestrating the violence, IPOB has denied any involvement.

Governor Otti says politicians responsible for attacks
In a statement released on Monday, November 18, by his media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, Governor Otti revealed that his administration has uncovered that opposition politicians in the state, rather than IPOB, are responsible for sponsoring the attacks.

He explained that the violence started in late May and has continued to escalate as part of a strategy to disrupt his administration’s focus on development.

“The sole agenda is to cause disaffection and distract the government from its focus on the development of the state,” Otti said.

He further added that the opposition’s efforts to fabricate lies against the government had failed, and now, they were resorting to violence.

We will smoke them out, Governor Otti vows
Governor Otti vowed that his administration would not allow any group or individual to destabilize the peace in Abia State.

He stated that a “counter-offensive” was being launched to eliminate the terror structures set up by criminals.

“It needs to be understood that the government will not sit idly by and watch any person or group of persons unleash violence on innocent and peace-loving citizens of the state,” he asserted.

Previously, Legit.ng reported that police authorities in Abia state have confirmed the killing of Inspector Bala Mohammed, one of the security officials assigned to Ginger Onwusibe, a member of the house of representatives representing the Nsiala-Ngwa North/South constituency.

Mohammed was alongside his colleague, Inspector Dunna Jatau, when he was attacked by some gunmen.

Politics

Ewekoro Local Government: Hon. Sikiru Adesina Eskay Advocates Unity for Progress

Published

19 hours ago

November 19, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Ewekoro Local Government: Hon. Sikiru Adesina Eskay Advocates Unity for Progress

……Preaches All-inclusive Government

Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

Ewekoro, 19th of November – The atmosphere was electric as Hon. Sikiru Adesina Eskay was inaugurated as the new chairman of Ewekoro Local Government in a ceremony marked by hope and celebration. In front of a gathered throng of enthusiastic supporters, community leaders, and dignitaries, Eskay articulated a bold vision for the future, promising to work hand-in-hand with the people to foster development and unity.

In his inaugural speech, Chairman Eskay expressed profound gratitude for the trust bestowed upon him by the citizens of Ewekoro. “This is not just my victory; it is a collective triumph for all of us,” he stated passionately. “Today, we embark on a journey to build a brighter future together, where every voice is heard, and every citizen plays a role in shaping our community.”

Hon. Eskay emphasized his commitment to inclusive governance, pledging to involve citizens in decision-making processes that impact their lives. “I believe that true leadership lies in collaboration,” he remarked. “My administration will prioritize transparency, accountability, and open dialogue with the people of Ewekoro.”

Central to his vision are initiatives aimed at enhancing education, healthcare, and infrastructure within the local government. Eskay underscored the importance of investing in the youth, assuring parents that his administration would work diligently to provide quality educational opportunities. “Our children are the future of Ewekoro, and I am committed to ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive,” he affirmed.

In a direct appeal to political opponents, Hon. Eskay urged them to join his administration in pursuit of progress. “To those in the opposition, I extend an invitation to come aboard the winning team. Let us set aside our differences and work together for the greater good of Ewekoro,” he declared, emphasizing that unity is essential in addressing the challenges faced by the community.

The proposed initiatives received enthusiastic support from attendees, many of whom expressed optimism about the new administration’s potential. “Hon. Eskay has always been a man of the people, and we believe that he will lead us towards a prosperous future,” said a local business leader. “His commitment to inclusivity and community engagement gives us hope.”

As the ceremony drew to a close, Hon. Eskay articulated a vision of Ewekoro as a model for local governance, where progress is made through collaboration and shared responsibility. “Together, we can transform Ewekoro into a thriving community that meets the needs of all its citizens,” he concluded.

With a clear mandate and a vision for inclusive governance, Hon. Sikiru Adesina Eskay embarks on his tenure with the support and hope of the people of Ewekoro, ready to lead them into a new era of development and unity. As the community looks forward to the changes ahead, they remain united in their commitment to building a brighter future together.

Politics

NNPP Southwest Chieftain Ajadi Slams Ogun LG Polls, Calls for Judicial Review By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Published

3 days ago

November 17, 2024

Sahara Weekly

NNPP Southwest Chieftain Ajadi Slams Ogun LG Polls, Calls for Judicial Review

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

The local government elections conducted in Ogun State on November 16, 2024, have been marred by allegations of malpractice, delays, and voter disenfranchisement, according to Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the Southwest Chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

Ambassador Ajadi, an advocate for political stability and good governance, described the election as a sham, emphasizing that results announced by the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) could not reflect the will of the people. Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, he accused OGSIEC of bias and collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Any numbers declared in Ogun State were fabricated,” Ajadi alleged. “No votes were counted at many polling units, and the exercise was riddled with irregularities. If OGSIEC announces any results, it is a fraudulent act that must be challenged in court.”

Voting Disruptions and Missing Officials

Ajadi recounted his personal experience at polling unit 027 in Adebimpe, where he waited until 4:15 PM without the arrival of OGSIEC officials. Similarly, his wife, Mrs. Oyindamola Ajadi, was unable to vote at polling unit 090 at Mr. Biggs in Ibafo due to the absence of electoral officers.

“The lack of organization was glaring,” Ajadi said. “How can we talk about credible elections when basic logistics were ignored? This is an affront to democracy and a betrayal of the people’s trust.”

Reports from NNPP Polling Agents

Ambassador Ajadi revealed that NNPP agents stationed across the state reported widespread delays and harassment. In Ofada Ward, OGSIEC officials arrived at polling unit 07 at 1:45 PM, but polling unit 08 saw NNPP agents intimidated by individuals allegedly linked to the APC, reportedly with the support of law enforcement officers.

In Orimerunmu, OGSIEC officials eventually showed up at polling units 012 and 013, but voters remained stranded due to missing materials. Meanwhile, polling units 035 in Ibafo and 019 at Asese Primary School were completely unattended throughout the day.

Ajadi added, “Our agents reported that at most locations, OGSIEC officials showed up as late as 2 PM with only 50 ballot papers for Councillors and 50 for Chairmen. Where are the missing ballot papers? This suggests rigging was already in motion before the process began.”

Accusations of Intimidation and Collusion

Ajadi further alleged that armed thugs, purportedly working for the APC, disrupted voting in several wards by chasing away NNPP members. “No results should be declared from polling units where elections did not take place,” he insisted. “Our party agents monitored the process diligently, and the evidence is clear—this was an exercise in futility.”

The NNPP chieftain accused OGSIEC of failing in its constitutional duty to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. “The commission’s incompetence and bias have disenfranchised countless voters and undermined democracy in Ogun State,” he lamented.

Call for Judicial Intervention

Ajadi called on the judiciary to ensure that justice is served and warned against the announcement of any manipulated results. “The good citizens of Ogun State deserve transparency and accountability. Announcing fraudulent results would amount to robbing the people in broad daylight,” he said.

Public Reaction

As reports of electoral irregularities continue to emerge, stakeholders and political observers have joined Ajadi in questioning the credibility of the election. Many are demanding a thorough investigation into OGSIEC’s conduct and immediate reforms to prevent a recurrence in future elections.

Efforts to reach OGSIEC for comments on the allegations were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. Meanwhile, the NNPP has vowed to pursue legal redress to protect the integrity of the democratic process in Ogun State.