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RE Keyamo: How Not To Be a Spokesman

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Keyamo

RE Keyamo: How Not To Be a Spokesman

 

 

 

By Sly Ikechukwu

 

 

 

I read with utter disappointment a concocted opinion piece authored by one Phrank Shaibu with the aforementioned headline. In the rather toxic piece, Shaibu, a known political hustler, renowned content thief and plagiarist oozed such a strong sense of rage and bitterness, much to the chagrin of many astute Nigerians.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sahara Reports That The reason for which Phrank Shaibu and his allies chose to respond to Keyamo’s assertions was not out of concern for Nigerian citizens or out of love for Nigerian students caught up in the ASUU/FG crisis, but rather because the Minister stated unequivocally that the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had never held an executive position that would have qualified him for the job in 2023.

 

 

 

 

RE Keyamo: How Not To Be a Spokesman

 

 

 

 

Without clothing him in a borrowed apparel, it is a statement of fact that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, has never held any executive position in Nigeria till date and whatever decisions or policies implemented between 1999 and 2007 were unquestionably approved and sanctioned by only one Commander In Chief, Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR on whose table the buck stops.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The aforementioned, a statement of fact which Keyamo reiterated formed basis for Phrank Shaibu’s tirade against the person of the erudite Senior Advocate, who is well-respected for his exceptional brilliance and mental soundness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My first knowledge of Phrank Shaibu dates back on Sunday, September 23, 2012 when I chanced on an article on Daily Trust Newspaper, written by renowned Professor of Journalism, Farook Kperogi, describing him as not only an intellectual thief but also a “nakedly transparent fraudster” who often plagiarized the former’s Grammar Column.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No doubt, every election season throws up all manner of political hacks that traffic in a one-way lane already strewn with shipwrecked characters that operated on reverse osmosis thinking of decency and societal good. The result is that history not only repeats itself, but it matches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So, when Olorogun Festus Keyamo, SAN, FCIArb UK, the Nigerian Minister of State for Labour and Productivity was announced as the Campaign Spokesperson of the ruling Party, All Progressive Congress (APC) for the 2023 presidential election, the derangement syndrome that it caused in the opposition camps was surprising but not unexpected.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leading the opposition cyber militias to express the trepidation in their camp was one social media hack or prankster with no fixed address who goes by the name Phrank “prank” Shuaibu. In 2019, after all effort to pitch his tenth with President Buhari’s campaign team failed like crumbled cookies, Shaibu surfaced in Atiku’s camp and began to spool some crap in the media space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In his chameleonic signature, yet again Phrank Shaibu wasted no time in showing how scared the major opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is, by frontally attacking the introductory media interface by the Honourable Minister after he was appointed Spokesperson, not on seminal issues but purely hybridization of facts and also, trying to obfuscate the picture of the Minister’s interview, albeit, poorly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is worthy of note that Festus Keyamo has a mandate, borne out of an eloquent testimony of verifiable performance record which the naysayers cannot assail. He will not be distracted from the objective, which is to market the APC Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the enthusiastic and well-informed electorate of Nigeria. Hence, he will not dwell on Phrank’s uncouth manners, intemperate disposition and Nollywood theatrics but focus on the onerous mandate to tell Nigerians the congenial qualities of his principal, which sets him apart from other pretenders and political prostitutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If performance is the yardstick for measuring success, then Festus Keyamo, SAN, is indeed a campaign spokesman to beat and the opposition is aware of this fact. He is a tested and effective campaign spokesperson who needs no introduction to Nigerians as his entire life and career has been in public space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Also, his outstanding performance contributed immensely in terms of political communications and reputation management to President Muhammadu Buhari’s reelection in 2019. The outstanding performance record undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s choice to re-hire him for the same position, going into the general elections of 2023.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Even though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) hasn’t formally pronounced the campaign season to the open, it is broadly acknowledged that the different political parties are already working hard unobtrusively in the background, to promote their candidates. And the emergence of Keyamo as the leading Spokesperson of the APC campaign machinery is apt and has been roundly applauded as a good choice, as he’s well apprised of the contending issues of our polity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many discerning Nigerians were therefore taken aback a few days ago, when an opinion post with the authorship of one Phrank Shaibu entitled “Keyamo: How Not To Be a Spokesman” first appeared online a few days ago.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the aforementioned article, Shaibu who was in a hurry to disparage the reputation of the learned silk and further questioned his suitability to serve as the All Progressives Congress – APC’s campaign spokesperson dished out loads of fallacies, including exposing his ignorance or blatant disregard for the Nigerian constitution in public domain.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shaibu’s outburst is sequel to an interview Keyamo granted Channels Television days back. During the interview, Keyamo marshalled out reasons why he thought that the PDP Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar is not the candidate to beat in the forthcoming 2023 election.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He also bared his mind on the lingering ASUU strike among other issues, saying that he subscribed private individuals weighing in and if need be, even for parents to beg ASUU to sheath the sword. His passionate and unbiased analysis of the ASSU saga surely revealed the Hon. Minister’s inner feelings of empathy for the university students and their parents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a product of the system and a known advocate of the masses of Nigerian whose own family members also surfer the adverse effect of this unfortunate situation, Keyamo merely expressed a harmless opinion which himself was willing to champion as a parent. But regrettably, it hit Shuaibu and his paymasters on the wrong chord.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s lamentable the inability of some political communication jobbers to communicate effectively principles that will unite Nigerians from all regions into a cohesive democratic force but instead resorted to elevated propaganda, demagoguery and falsehood of what a true Nigerian President should represent beyond their parochial interpretation of programmatic thrust.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Prank’ Shuaibu should realize that it’s not easy to shape his institutionalized memory of his vile against the APC in his futile attempt to twist Keyamo’s comments and hoodwink intelligent Nigerians as to the presidential candidate who has gathered more political IOUs in Nigeria other than Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the quintessential Jagaban.

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

Tinubu Intervenes in Lagos Assembly Crisis, Upholds Obasa as Speaker

President Bola Tinubu has successfully intervened in the lingering leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, endorsing Mudashiru Obasa’s continued tenure as Speaker despite previous recommendations for his resignation.

The resolution followed a crucial meeting between Tinubu and all 40 lawmakers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. The President’s decision, however, runs contrary to the recommendations of a panel previously established to mediate the crisis.

Reversal of Agreement

The panel, led by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande and former Ogun State Governor Chief Gbenga Daniel, along with members of the Governance Advisory Council, initially advised that Obasa should return as Speaker but step down shortly after, allowing for a new Speaker from Lagos West in the interest of political balance.

On March 3, 2025, Mojisola Meranda, who had taken over from Obasa after his impeachment, resigned from her position and was re-elected as Deputy Speaker. Obasa was subsequently reinstated in line with the agreement. However, in a dramatic twist, he indefinitely adjourned the Assembly and refused to step down as originally planned.

Tinubu Brokers Lasting Peace

During the closed-door meeting, Tinubu urged lawmakers to put aside their grievances and work together under Obasa’s leadership to ensure stability in the Assembly and across Lagos State.

“Tinubu met with the lawmakers behind closed doors. They expressed their concerns, and he resolved the issues. Obasa will remain as Speaker, and the lawmakers have agreed to work with him,” a source familiar with the meeting revealed.

Despite dissatisfaction among some Lagos stakeholders over Obasa’s defiance of the original agreement, the source assured that Tinubu would engage all concerned parties to maintain unity.

“Some stakeholders are naturally displeased that Obasa reneged on the agreement with the Akande panel, but the President will address their concerns to ensure lasting peace,” the source added.

Obasa to Withdraw Lawsuit

In a further development, Tinubu directed Obasa to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his impeachment at the Lagos State High Court.

“The President told the lawmakers to allow Obasa to work, and in return, Obasa must withdraw his case against Meranda and the Assembly members in court. The lawmakers have agreed to this arrangement,” another insider disclosed.

Prior to this directive, Obasa’s lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), had confirmed that despite his reinstatement, the Speaker had not withdrawn his lawsuit, arguing that the allegations against him—ranging from high-handedness to financial mismanagement—needed to be addressed.

With Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court set to hear the case on March 17, 2025, all eyes are now on Obasa’s next move following Tinubu’s directive.

Political Ramifications

The intervention by Tinubu, a towering figure in Lagos politics, signals his firm grip over the state’s political structure. However, the decision to allow Obasa to remain as Speaker could spark further discontent among factions within the ruling party and raise questions about adherence to internal agreements.

For now, the Lagos State House of Assembly crisis appears to have been temporarily resolved, but the long-term political implications remain to be seen.

 

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly"

LOCKED OUT: RIVERS STATE GOVERNOR DENIED ENTRY TO ASSEMBLY, BUDGET PRESENTATION STALLED

…Fubara Laments Attempt to Frustrate Governance
…Tension Mounts as Assembly Faction Defies Supreme Court Ruling
…Tinubu Pressures Governor to Implement Verdict Amid Growing Political Standoff

 

Rivers State was thrown into fresh political turmoil on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied access to the Port Harcourt Aba Road temporary Rivers State House of Assembly complex, effectively blocking him from presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

Accompanied by his entourage, Fubara arrived at the Assembly Quarters only to be met with locked gates, an action seen as a bold and calculated move by the 27 lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The incident underscores the deepening power struggle between the governor and Wike’s faction, which the Supreme Court recently recognized as the legitimate Assembly leadership.

48-Hour Ultimatum and Assembly’s Defiance

The legislative crisis escalated after the pro-Wike lawmakers issued Fubara a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget, challenging an earlier approval by a four-member faction of lawmakers aligned with the governor. However, instead of attending the session, Fubara invited the lawmakers to Government House, Port Harcourt, a move they outrightly rejected.

Governor Fubara Reacts: ‘I Leave Everything to God’

Addressing the development during the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana LGA, Governor Fubara expressed disappointment at the obstruction, emphasizing that his priority remained the state’s economic stability and the welfare of civil servants. He lamented the resistance he has faced in executing governance duties despite following due process.

“I made frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly,” Fubara stated. “I even sent WhatsApp messages to them, notifying them that I would be coming at 10 a.m. to present the budget. This was to ensure that Rivers State does not face any crisis because of me, as some have alleged.”

Despite his efforts, Fubara said he was left standing outside the legislative complex, only to hear claims that no official communication was made regarding his visit.

“I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret,” he added. “Like I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually comes to an end. What matters is how we use power. I have chosen not to abuse mine, no matter what they claim.”

Presidential Pressure: Tinubu Orders Compliance with Supreme Court Verdict

The budget blockade comes just 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu directed Governor Fubara to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling recognizing the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers. During a high-stakes meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu reinforced his stance, demanding adherence to the court’s decision to prevent further instability in the oil-rich state.

However, Fubara’s camp views the legislative impasse as an orchestrated attempt to sabotage his administration. His allies argue that the governor is being cornered into submission, with the opposition exploiting institutional control to dictate terms.

Calls for Resignation, Threats of Impeachment

Adding to the already volatile situation, Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, called for Fubara’s resignation, warning that failure to comply with the Supreme Court ruling could lead to impeachment proceedings. The remarks signal a potential escalation in the crisis, with political forces aligning to push Fubara into a corner.

As tensions mount, Rivers State finds itself at the center of a deepening political crisis. The coming days will determine whether Fubara can navigate the high-stakes battle or if the opposition forces will tighten their grip on the state’s political landscape. One thing remains certain—this is a battle far from over.

 

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Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

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Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

The Lagos State House of Assembly has plunged into further turmoil following the controversial purchase of N5 billion worth of vehicles for lawmakers, exacerbating the already strained relationship between Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and his predecessor, Mojisola Meranda.

Investigations by The PUNCH revealed that during Obasa’s removal as Speaker, Meranda facilitated the purchase of 39 vehicles for lawmakers. However, it emerged that before his ouster, Obasa had approved N7 billion for the same procurement, with plans to source the vehicles from Dubai. His removal on January 13, 2025, by 35 out of 40 lawmakers, citing highhandedness and financial mismanagement, paved the way for Meranda to assume the Speaker position.

Meranda’s tenure, however, was short-lived as she resigned on March 3, 2025, after intense pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, allowing Obasa to reclaim the speakership while she reverted to her Deputy Speaker role. Despite this political settlement, legal and financial disputes between the two factions continue to rage.

Legal Battle Over Procurement

The controversy now centers on the legality of the vehicle purchase made under Meranda’s leadership. Sources close to Obasa allege that she acted without proper authorization, thereby undermining his earlier procurement strategy.

“He had approved the money before his removal. But Meranda proceeded with buying them, a move that infuriated Obasa,” an anonymous aide to the Speaker disclosed.

Another insider added, “In December, Obasa approved the purchase of those vehicles from Dubai. However, after his removal, Meranda changed the process to open bidding, leading to local procurement instead. That is the major difference.”

Meranda’s Defense: A Cost-Saving Measure

Meranda’s camp has firmly defended her decision, asserting that she actually saved the state N2 billion by purchasing 32 units of the 2025 Toyota Prado SUV and seven units of the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser for N5 billion, compared to Obasa’s planned expenditure of N7 billion for 35 Toyota Fortuner SUVs and 10 Toyota Prados.

A close associate of Meranda emphasized, “Let it be known that Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda never withdrew funds from the Assembly’s account. She merely adjusted an existing procurement approval, resulting in significant cost savings.”

He further argued that Meranda’s decision to source the vehicles locally ensured better financial prudence and transparency. “Unlike Obasa, who planned to import the vehicles from Dubai, all the cars were purchased domestically. Also, she did not approve any vehicle for herself as Speaker, unlike past administrations,” he added.

Court Showdown Looms

Despite political efforts to resolve the leadership crisis, Obasa remains steadfast in challenging his removal in court. His lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), underscored the significance of the case, stating, “The allegations against him, including highhandedness and fraudulent practices, are serious and must be legally addressed.”

Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has now set March 17, 2025, for the next hearing, after an initial adjournment from March 10, following further filings by Obasa’s legal team.

What Lies Ahead?

The unresolved legal battles and lingering power struggle between Obasa and Meranda continue to cast a shadow over the Assembly’s stability. As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications of the procurement controversy and the broader leadership crisis could shape the political landscape of Lagos in the coming months.

 

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