Summary:
Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, attended the meeting of the coalition of opposition presidential candidates in the forth coming presidential election. The meeting which took place at Transcorp Hilton Hotel on Tuesday, was attended by, the All Nigeria Peoples Party’s presidential candidate, Gen. Mohammadu Buhari, and the Action Congress vice-presidential candidate, Chief Ben Obi. During the meeting, , Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa (the Democratic Peoples Party’s presidential candidate), said "there was no election in the country, especially in his state, Sokoto". He also added that all his party and state officials were arrested by police. He said, ”Just like in any other state of the country where we don‘t have the police or military, I was so surprised to see a high-powered detachment of police, led by the EFCC boss in Sokoto." The chairmen of the political parties have called for the immediate dissolution of INEC and the removal of its chairman, Prof. Maurice Iwu claiming that the conduct of the election on Saturday was ”a total sham characterised by massive irregularities that paled into insignificance what occurred in the 2003 general election and also Iwu must be disbanded to save the nation due to his failure.
Issue:
It is a good idea that the opposition party co-operate together to fight PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) which has proven to tough to be sacked. I hope that they reach a conclusion and at the end of the day, they compenciate themselves accordingly.
Significance of issues:
Through co-operation, teh opposition parties can achieve whatever they want to achieve. PDP is just one party eventhough it the "ruling party". For the fact that PDP is proving too togh, the party needs to be eliminated for the good of Nigeria.
full article: http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200704182561175
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Oyinlola imposes curfew on Ilesa over violent protests by Gbenga Faturoti, Correspondent, Osogbo
Summary:
A dusk to dawn curfew as been imposed in Ilesa, Osun state by Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola after Rotimi Makinde (AC senatorial candidate) was abducted after the election by people suspected members of his political opponent. Mrs. Makinde confirmed the story. Currently, members of the AC (Action Congress) in the state have gone into hiding to prevent them from being arrested while some other members are living under fear in the state. This protest by people of Ilesa as been linked to Oyinlola’s declaration as winner of last Saturday’s governorship election in the state by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Issue:
Govenor Olagunsoye Oyinlola's victory is not supported by members of his state. It is in his best interest to seek the request of Osun residents and know how best to behave for them to accept him as their governor.
Significance of issue:
Govenor Olagunsoye Oyinlola should clearify all issues he has with members of his state. If he is not accepted as their governor, he should step down so that peace can rain in the state.
full article: http://odili.net/news/source/2007/apr/17/601.html
A dusk to dawn curfew as been imposed in Ilesa, Osun state by Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola after Rotimi Makinde (AC senatorial candidate) was abducted after the election by people suspected members of his political opponent. Mrs. Makinde confirmed the story. Currently, members of the AC (Action Congress) in the state have gone into hiding to prevent them from being arrested while some other members are living under fear in the state. This protest by people of Ilesa as been linked to Oyinlola’s declaration as winner of last Saturday’s governorship election in the state by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Issue:
Govenor Olagunsoye Oyinlola's victory is not supported by members of his state. It is in his best interest to seek the request of Osun residents and know how best to behave for them to accept him as their governor.
Significance of issue:
Govenor Olagunsoye Oyinlola should clearify all issues he has with members of his state. If he is not accepted as their governor, he should step down so that peace can rain in the state.
full article: http://odili.net/news/source/2007/apr/17/601.html
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Ribadu gets second term, now AIG reported by Chiawo Nwankwo and Oscarline Onwuemenyi of THE PUNCH NEWSPAPER
Summary:
As a result of a job well done and the contribution of EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) towards eradication of corrupt practices in Nigeria, President Olusegun Obasanjo has approved the extension of the tenure of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as the chairman of the Commission and also as the an Assistant Inspector-General of Police. Ribadu‘s re-appointment, was well supported by some members of the House of Representatives. According to Mr John Agoda, chairman (House Committee on Information), "Ribadu‘s re-appointment demonstrated Obasanjo‘s total commitment and boldness to the fight against corruption".
As a result of a job well done and the contribution of EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) towards eradication of corrupt practices in Nigeria, President Olusegun Obasanjo has approved the extension of the tenure of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as the chairman of the Commission and also as the an Assistant Inspector-General of Police. Ribadu‘s re-appointment, was well supported by some members of the House of Representatives. According to Mr John Agoda, chairman (House Committee on Information), "Ribadu‘s re-appointment demonstrated Obasanjo‘s total commitment and boldness to the fight against corruption".
Issues:
So far, EFCC has done remarkably well in helping Nigeria scrub and bring to awareness those corrupt officials in government. I support Mr John Agoda's statement that Ribadu's re-appointment is a sign of Obasanjo's commitment towards fighting against corruption but, my concern is that; will EFCC continue it's good job? Almost all governors and government officials have been examined, what will be EFCC's next agenda when all officials are examined?
Significance of issues:
The issue of corruption in Nigeria is gradually turning a new leaf. It is a welcome development that should be encouraged in Nigeria. If truly EFCC will perform their due without being bias, then they will get the support of some Nigerians.
Full article: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20070411144635
Youth Attack Idris’ Aide Over Attempt To Defraud Them reported by Olufemi Yahaya, Special Correspondent, DAILY INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER Lokoja
Summary:
Mrs Comfort Onoja (Special Assistant to Kogi State Governor on Inter-party Affairs) was stripped naked, molested and beaten up by angry Igbo youth at Govrnment House, Lokoja. Hell broke out when Mrs Comfort Onoja was suspected of fraudulent attempt over a cash gift of N1 million given to a group of elders and the Igbo youth who paid Governor Ibrahim a solidarity visit. Mrs Onoja was reported to have reserved N500,000 for herself and deliver the rest N500,000 to the visitors.Mrs Onoja was thoroughly beaten up and stripped her naked by the angry youths. She was later rescued by two policemen who used tear-gas to scare the youths away.
Issues:
It is a sad development that while Nigeria is still battling to fight against and stop corruption, a governor is still caught in such Act. If a group of people pay him a solidarity visit and they were rewarded with N1 million, then it means if 5 groups visit him, he might likely reward them with 4-5 million naira. This attitude is really unfair to Nigerians. Instead of just giving away such amount of money, it could be used to build schools, repair roads and any other thing that will be of benefit to Lokoja residents. Besides, it is also shameful that such improper behavior could happen within the government's house premises.
Significance of issues:
Kogi state residents really need to examine whom ever they want to elect as their governor. Based on Olufemi Yahaya's report, the present administration is not up to the task of being re-elected.
read full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=44&a=24521
Mrs Comfort Onoja (Special Assistant to Kogi State Governor on Inter-party Affairs) was stripped naked, molested and beaten up by angry Igbo youth at Govrnment House, Lokoja. Hell broke out when Mrs Comfort Onoja was suspected of fraudulent attempt over a cash gift of N1 million given to a group of elders and the Igbo youth who paid Governor Ibrahim a solidarity visit. Mrs Onoja was reported to have reserved N500,000 for herself and deliver the rest N500,000 to the visitors.Mrs Onoja was thoroughly beaten up and stripped her naked by the angry youths. She was later rescued by two policemen who used tear-gas to scare the youths away.
Issues:
It is a sad development that while Nigeria is still battling to fight against and stop corruption, a governor is still caught in such Act. If a group of people pay him a solidarity visit and they were rewarded with N1 million, then it means if 5 groups visit him, he might likely reward them with 4-5 million naira. This attitude is really unfair to Nigerians. Instead of just giving away such amount of money, it could be used to build schools, repair roads and any other thing that will be of benefit to Lokoja residents. Besides, it is also shameful that such improper behavior could happen within the government's house premises.
Significance of issues:
Kogi state residents really need to examine whom ever they want to elect as their governor. Based on Olufemi Yahaya's report, the present administration is not up to the task of being re-elected.
read full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=44&a=24521
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Atiku Can’t Stop Elections – Obasanjo By Chesa Chesa, Abuja, and Kazeem Akintunde of DAILY INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER
Summary:
President Olusegun Obasanjo has vowed that his governement will not accept any form of misbehaviour from those planning to disrupt the smooth running of the forthcoming elections, because of their disqualification by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He commended the INEC (Independent Electoral Commission) for their role in filtering out elegible candidates from the candidates'list. President Obasanjo has assured Nigerians that April elections would go ahead as planned. He also requested for the assistance of the general public not to support or part-take in any form of evil schemes planned by selfish individuals and corrupt politicians whom he said, " want power by any means necessary".
Issues:
It is now clear that due to the court rule on AC (Action Congress), PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) might have an edge over most other parties. It seems to me that in Nigerian politics, success is mainly about the destruction of other parties and the raise of one's party. If eventually AC is dis-allowed to part-take in the forth coming election, then PDP stands a chance of retaining presidency.
Significance of issue:
The battle fought by AC has now gotten to a point whereby only the court and INEC can make final decission(s). Even if AC is dis-allowed from part-taking in April 2007 election, they have in many ways influence the politics of Nigeria. Many people are now politically conscious and legal ways of tackling political issues have being unleashed. Tese and several archievements of AC makes them my best political party in Nigerian history.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=181&a=22921
President Olusegun Obasanjo has vowed that his governement will not accept any form of misbehaviour from those planning to disrupt the smooth running of the forthcoming elections, because of their disqualification by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He commended the INEC (Independent Electoral Commission) for their role in filtering out elegible candidates from the candidates'list. President Obasanjo has assured Nigerians that April elections would go ahead as planned. He also requested for the assistance of the general public not to support or part-take in any form of evil schemes planned by selfish individuals and corrupt politicians whom he said, " want power by any means necessary".
Issues:
It is now clear that due to the court rule on AC (Action Congress), PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) might have an edge over most other parties. It seems to me that in Nigerian politics, success is mainly about the destruction of other parties and the raise of one's party. If eventually AC is dis-allowed to part-take in the forth coming election, then PDP stands a chance of retaining presidency.
Significance of issue:
The battle fought by AC has now gotten to a point whereby only the court and INEC can make final decission(s). Even if AC is dis-allowed from part-taking in April 2007 election, they have in many ways influence the politics of Nigeria. Many people are now politically conscious and legal ways of tackling political issues have being unleashed. Tese and several archievements of AC makes them my best political party in Nigerian history.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=181&a=22921
Appeal Court stops Atiku by Tobi Soniyi, Abuja of PUNCH NEWSPAPER
Summary:
Atiku Abubakar‘s bid to contest in the April 21 2007 presidential election has been rejected by the court of appeal. The presiding judge, justice Umar Abdullahi agreed that in accordance to the 1999 Constitution's Electoral Act, (INEC) Independent National Electoral Commission has the power to screen and disqualify candidates for the election and also disqualify any candidate that fails to meet the criteria set out by the 1999 Constitution without having to go to court.
Issues:
The court of appeal's judgement is fair, in the sense that, justice Umar Abdullahi's judge was in accordance with Nigeria's constitution. If trully INEC has the constitutional right to disqualify candidates, then it means that Akitu Abubakar's faith depends on INEC.
Significance of issue:
April 2007 election probably just a few weeks away. Disqualification of candidates at this moment is really not a good way of practising democracy. Atiku Abubakar and his supporters have come along way to swallow any form of resistance or hindrance that will prevent them for pursuing presidency. INEC should endeavour to forget with ever issues they have with Atiku and grant him permission to contest.
full article: http://www.punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art2007040412131993
Atiku Abubakar‘s bid to contest in the April 21 2007 presidential election has been rejected by the court of appeal. The presiding judge, justice Umar Abdullahi agreed that in accordance to the 1999 Constitution's Electoral Act, (INEC) Independent National Electoral Commission has the power to screen and disqualify candidates for the election and also disqualify any candidate that fails to meet the criteria set out by the 1999 Constitution without having to go to court.
Issues:
The court of appeal's judgement is fair, in the sense that, justice Umar Abdullahi's judge was in accordance with Nigeria's constitution. If trully INEC has the constitutional right to disqualify candidates, then it means that Akitu Abubakar's faith depends on INEC.
Significance of issue:
April 2007 election probably just a few weeks away. Disqualification of candidates at this moment is really not a good way of practising democracy. Atiku Abubakar and his supporters have come along way to swallow any form of resistance or hindrance that will prevent them for pursuing presidency. INEC should endeavour to forget with ever issues they have with Atiku and grant him permission to contest.
full article: http://www.punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art2007040412131993
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Atiku adamant, vows to continue campaign by Musikilu Mojeed and Olusola Fabiyi of PUNCH NEWSPAPER
Summary:
Vice president Atiku Abubarkar is not affected by the decision made by Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) to disqualify him from contesting for presidency. Atiku has vowed to continue with his campaign discribing INEC's decision as means of distracting him from carrying on with his campaign. His party AC (Action Congress) reported that their right to freedom of association has been violated and they intend taking the matter to court.
Issues:
Those against AC political party can now rejoice for a while till court gives it's final judgement. Ac has come along way to give up presidential race. INEC's judgement is very unfair eventhough they might be right with the claim that their judgement was based on his indictment for corruption by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and an Administrative Panel. EFCC and the Administrative Panel should be well examined to know if really they have geninue reasons for their actions or they are being controlled by a higher autority. Along, AC has been going about their politics without bothering anymore. So why should they be deprived of their ambition? The fact that Atiku wants to contest for presidency has not granted him automatic sit. Even the ruling party PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) has to go through the same procedure as AC before they can retain presidential sit.
Significance of Issues:
If eventually, AC is deprived from contesting for presidential sit, this will favour other parties. AC has been a treat to other parties due to their strong irresistable effort toward their gola which is to rule Nigeria come April 2007.
full article: http://www.punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200703184263193
Vice president Atiku Abubarkar is not affected by the decision made by Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) to disqualify him from contesting for presidency. Atiku has vowed to continue with his campaign discribing INEC's decision as means of distracting him from carrying on with his campaign. His party AC (Action Congress) reported that their right to freedom of association has been violated and they intend taking the matter to court.
Issues:
Those against AC political party can now rejoice for a while till court gives it's final judgement. Ac has come along way to give up presidential race. INEC's judgement is very unfair eventhough they might be right with the claim that their judgement was based on his indictment for corruption by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and an Administrative Panel. EFCC and the Administrative Panel should be well examined to know if really they have geninue reasons for their actions or they are being controlled by a higher autority. Along, AC has been going about their politics without bothering anymore. So why should they be deprived of their ambition? The fact that Atiku wants to contest for presidency has not granted him automatic sit. Even the ruling party PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) has to go through the same procedure as AC before they can retain presidential sit.
Significance of Issues:
If eventually, AC is deprived from contesting for presidential sit, this will favour other parties. AC has been a treat to other parties due to their strong irresistable effort toward their gola which is to rule Nigeria come April 2007.
full article: http://www.punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200703184263193
Obasanjo To Question Govs For Non-Performance After Tenure by Uwakwe Abugu, and Maxwell Oditta of DAILY INDEPENDENT
Summary:
President Olusegun Obasanjo has vowed that if Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) win the forth coming presidential election, he will continue monitoring and assessing the activities of governors belonging to PDP even after his tenure as president which will be over on May 29th, 2007. Also, Obasanjo has announced his membership as one of PDP's Board of Trustees which permits him the right to make certain decisions in the party. The whole aim of this idea is to make Nigeria one of the 20 most industrialised nations of the world by the year 2011.
Issues:
There are several issues to be considered concerning Obasanjo's future intension. It will be unfair and wrong if after his tenure he is still allowed such rights. Moreover, I do not think the constitution will permit him to do so, but viewing his decision from the angle of a future PDP governor, it will be unfair if his wish is granted. The government in Nigeria is a collection of various units (people), each having a role to play in order to ensure Nigeria's progress. Granting Obasanjo such right will definately affect the performance of future governors in a negative way. They won't feell free to take certain decision has they are been monitored. The president should ask for the PDP's governors view or option before taking his decision. Constitutionally, it might be a violation of human right. We allow have right to live and right to take certain decisions. Nigeria is owned by Nigerians, not some board of trustees.
Significance of Issues:
President Obasanjo's future plan signifies that, he is not through with this reforms or he has some things yet undo. He did not utilize his two tenures well enough, which ordinarilly is enough for anyone who really focuses on his reforms. He shouldn't be allowed into Nigeria politics anymore. Others should be given a chance to assist in the transformating Nigeria. If indeed the president has some issues left undo, he won't be going around campaigning for an election that he is not contest. He should have been more focused on this reforms.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=183&a=22979
President Olusegun Obasanjo has vowed that if Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) win the forth coming presidential election, he will continue monitoring and assessing the activities of governors belonging to PDP even after his tenure as president which will be over on May 29th, 2007. Also, Obasanjo has announced his membership as one of PDP's Board of Trustees which permits him the right to make certain decisions in the party. The whole aim of this idea is to make Nigeria one of the 20 most industrialised nations of the world by the year 2011.
Issues:
There are several issues to be considered concerning Obasanjo's future intension. It will be unfair and wrong if after his tenure he is still allowed such rights. Moreover, I do not think the constitution will permit him to do so, but viewing his decision from the angle of a future PDP governor, it will be unfair if his wish is granted. The government in Nigeria is a collection of various units (people), each having a role to play in order to ensure Nigeria's progress. Granting Obasanjo such right will definately affect the performance of future governors in a negative way. They won't feell free to take certain decision has they are been monitored. The president should ask for the PDP's governors view or option before taking his decision. Constitutionally, it might be a violation of human right. We allow have right to live and right to take certain decisions. Nigeria is owned by Nigerians, not some board of trustees.
Significance of Issues:
President Obasanjo's future plan signifies that, he is not through with this reforms or he has some things yet undo. He did not utilize his two tenures well enough, which ordinarilly is enough for anyone who really focuses on his reforms. He shouldn't be allowed into Nigeria politics anymore. Others should be given a chance to assist in the transformating Nigeria. If indeed the president has some issues left undo, he won't be going around campaigning for an election that he is not contest. He should have been more focused on this reforms.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/?c=183&a=22979
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
London Trip: Atiku Thanks Obasanjo For Releasing Presidential Jet reprted by Festus Owete,Assistant Editor of DAILY INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER, Abuja
Summary
A group of AD (Alliance for Democracy) loyalists have expressed gratitudes to President Obasanjo for releasing the presidential jet to take vice president Atiku to London for treatment on his knee. It was also learnt that president Obasanjo called at every 30 minutes interval to know what the health condition of Atiku was.
Also reporting to journalists, AD loyalists have vowed to resist to their last drop is Atiku's name is does not appear on the list of those to contest for April 21th presidential sit.
Issues
President Obasanjo's action towards Atiku seems to have taken a new dimension. It is a good development that should be encouraged for the nation to move forward.
Significance of Issues
The dispute betwen Obasanjo and Atiku might gradually come to an end. Since Obasanjo has shown concerns over Atiku's health, then probably there will be more interractions between the both of them when Atiku returns from London.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/news/44/ARTICLE/22637/2007-03-13.html
A group of AD (Alliance for Democracy) loyalists have expressed gratitudes to President Obasanjo for releasing the presidential jet to take vice president Atiku to London for treatment on his knee. It was also learnt that president Obasanjo called at every 30 minutes interval to know what the health condition of Atiku was.
Also reporting to journalists, AD loyalists have vowed to resist to their last drop is Atiku's name is does not appear on the list of those to contest for April 21th presidential sit.
Issues
President Obasanjo's action towards Atiku seems to have taken a new dimension. It is a good development that should be encouraged for the nation to move forward.
Significance of Issues
The dispute betwen Obasanjo and Atiku might gradually come to an end. Since Obasanjo has shown concerns over Atiku's health, then probably there will be more interractions between the both of them when Atiku returns from London.
full article: http://www.independentngonline.com/news/44/ARTICLE/22637/2007-03-13.html
Only court can save Atiku, says INEC reported by Musikilu Mojeed and Sola Fabiyi of PUNCH NEWSPAPER
Summary
Vice-President Atiku's fate on contesting for Presidency lies in the hands of the judiciary. Speaking on Atiku's fate, the Chairman of the Information and Publicity Committee of INEC, Mr. Phillip Umeadi Jnr according to Musikilu Mojeed and Sola Fabiyi's report, said that "issues concerning the vice-president‘s participation in the election were still in the court and decisions could not be taken on them until an order came from the court".
Mr Umeadi also told journalists that according to the Section 35 (5) of the Electoral Act permits INEC the right to exclude a candidate‘s name from the list of those contesting an election.
Issues
The main issue is that V.P Atiku's fate lies in the judicary. Although constitutionally, NEC has the right to exclude a candidate's name, but still these matter should be well investigated. The dispute between President Obasanjo and Atiku might be responsile for the on-going effort of trying to dis-qualify AD party's presidential ambition to the advantage of PDP.
Significance of issues
Only the judiciary has the constitutional right to allow or dis-allow Atiku from contesting for Presidency.
full story: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20070314221460
Vice-President Atiku's fate on contesting for Presidency lies in the hands of the judiciary. Speaking on Atiku's fate, the Chairman of the Information and Publicity Committee of INEC, Mr. Phillip Umeadi Jnr according to Musikilu Mojeed and Sola Fabiyi's report, said that "issues concerning the vice-president‘s participation in the election were still in the court and decisions could not be taken on them until an order came from the court".
Mr Umeadi also told journalists that according to the Section 35 (5) of the Electoral Act permits INEC the right to exclude a candidate‘s name from the list of those contesting an election.
Issues
The main issue is that V.P Atiku's fate lies in the judicary. Although constitutionally, NEC has the right to exclude a candidate's name, but still these matter should be well investigated. The dispute between President Obasanjo and Atiku might be responsile for the on-going effort of trying to dis-qualify AD party's presidential ambition to the advantage of PDP.
Significance of issues
Only the judiciary has the constitutional right to allow or dis-allow Atiku from contesting for Presidency.
full story: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art20070314221460
Monday, March 12, 2007
Yar’Adua back Campaigns in Ekiti reported by Iheanacho Nwosu, Willy Eya and Anthony Omoh of DAILY CHAMPION NEWSPAPER
Summary
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Alhaji Umaru Yar'Adua has finally
arrived from Germany, where he went to receive medical attention. He joined president
Olusegun Obasanjo and the rest of PDP's chieftains in Ado-Ekiti on helicopter from Lagos. Upon
his arrival on a chartered aircraft in Lagos, he was recieved by his Wife, well-wishers and
dignatories.
He expressed disappointment over the rumor of his death. Based on Iheanacho Nwosu, Willy
Eya and Anthony Omoh's report, he siad that, "My joy is the concern shown towards me by
Nigerians. All those who brought the news of my death have been disappointed." He also added
that he has forgiven those responsible for therumor.
Issues
Alhaji Umaru Ya'Adua pressence in Ekiti state is although a good idea but it's not a must. He
should have been given some time to rest (atleast a week) before joining his team in
campaigning. It is also required that he makes public his health condition so as to clearify that
he is trully okay health-wise.
Significance of Issues
PDP members should be more concerned about Yar'Adua's health than his political ambition.
Yar'Adua should not be stressed atleast for week so that he can fully health-wise. Rushing him
to campaign is not a good idea.
view full story: http://odili.net/news/source/2007/mar/11/507.html
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Alhaji Umaru Yar'Adua has finally
arrived from Germany, where he went to receive medical attention. He joined president
Olusegun Obasanjo and the rest of PDP's chieftains in Ado-Ekiti on helicopter from Lagos. Upon
his arrival on a chartered aircraft in Lagos, he was recieved by his Wife, well-wishers and
dignatories.
He expressed disappointment over the rumor of his death. Based on Iheanacho Nwosu, Willy
Eya and Anthony Omoh's report, he siad that, "My joy is the concern shown towards me by
Nigerians. All those who brought the news of my death have been disappointed." He also added
that he has forgiven those responsible for therumor.
Issues
Alhaji Umaru Ya'Adua pressence in Ekiti state is although a good idea but it's not a must. He
should have been given some time to rest (atleast a week) before joining his team in
campaigning. It is also required that he makes public his health condition so as to clearify that
he is trully okay health-wise.
Significance of Issues
PDP members should be more concerned about Yar'Adua's health than his political ambition.
Yar'Adua should not be stressed atleast for week so that he can fully health-wise. Rushing him
to campaign is not a good idea.
view full story: http://odili.net/news/source/2007/mar/11/507.html
ATIKU INJURED, FLOWN TO LONDON reported by Simon Ekpe, John Alechenu and Musikilu Mojeed of PUNCH NEWSPAPER
Summary
Vice President Atiku Abubarkar has is currently recieving treatment in London as a result of a
knee injury he sustained while exercising. In interview conducted by Simon Ekpe, John
Alechenu and Musikilu Mojeed of Punch News Paper, V.P also confirmed his reason for leaving
the country.
Based on Simon Ekpe, John Alechenu and Musikilu Mojeed's interview, Atiku added
that he broke his knee tendon while doing his normal exercise in my gym. He conducted an x-
ray. The result came out and he realised that he has broken his knee tendon but
unfortunately it cannot be handled in Nigeria.
Vice President Atiku also made comments on the current government's effort towards stopping
his presidential aspiration, which to him is not the way politics should be practical. He
emphasised on the need for the present government to be soft and allow him the opportunity to
content for president during the forth coming election.
Issues
It is very important that the V.P Atiku stated clearly his reason for being flown out of the
country. This will save alot of rumor as many people might connect his leave with his current
political issue with president Obasanjo. It is interesting to know how helpful Atiku has was
towards Obasanjo's presidential ambtion and it will be unfair if the former pay back in an unkind
way. Although the president Obasanjo permitted the use of the Presidential jet for conveying
Atiku to London, he should also employ the same spirit and resolve the dispute between him
and his vice.
Significance of Issues
As the presidential candidate of Action Congress (AC) political party, Atiku's health matters alot
to the members. Travelling to London for treatment is the best option for Atiku, atleast he
would get better attention from professionals.
view full article: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200703122143562
Vice President Atiku Abubarkar has is currently recieving treatment in London as a result of a
knee injury he sustained while exercising. In interview conducted by Simon Ekpe, John
Alechenu and Musikilu Mojeed of Punch News Paper, V.P also confirmed his reason for leaving
the country.
Based on Simon Ekpe, John Alechenu and Musikilu Mojeed's interview, Atiku added
that he broke his knee tendon while doing his normal exercise in my gym. He conducted an x-
ray. The result came out and he realised that he has broken his knee tendon but
unfortunately it cannot be handled in Nigeria.
Vice President Atiku also made comments on the current government's effort towards stopping
his presidential aspiration, which to him is not the way politics should be practical. He
emphasised on the need for the present government to be soft and allow him the opportunity to
content for president during the forth coming election.
Issues
It is very important that the V.P Atiku stated clearly his reason for being flown out of the
country. This will save alot of rumor as many people might connect his leave with his current
political issue with president Obasanjo. It is interesting to know how helpful Atiku has was
towards Obasanjo's presidential ambtion and it will be unfair if the former pay back in an unkind
way. Although the president Obasanjo permitted the use of the Presidential jet for conveying
Atiku to London, he should also employ the same spirit and resolve the dispute between him
and his vice.
Significance of Issues
As the presidential candidate of Action Congress (AC) political party, Atiku's health matters alot
to the members. Travelling to London for treatment is the best option for Atiku, atleast he
would get better attention from professionals.
view full article: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200703122143562
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
US spy chief warns of crisis in Nigeria reported by Agency Reporter
View full article: http://punchng.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art200702281493284
Published: Wednesday, 28 Feb 2007
Summary
Mike McConnell of the United States made a global warning due to the political
instability in Nigeria. He claims that President Olusegun Obasanjo is influencing the political
pocess in Nigeria with his position. According to Agency's report; " President Olusegun Obasanjo is manipulating the political process ahead of April elections".
According to the report; the dispute between President Olusegun Obasanjo and his Vice Atiku
Abubakar might be inconnection with the Vice's refusal of the ammendment that will extend President Obasanjo's presidential tenure.
My View:
There are several consequences and implications unknown to many Nigerians and politians
over the political instability in Nigeria. One of which is the global warning as announced by Mike
McConnell. As the 'Gaint of Africa', this warning will not only draw the attention of Nigeria to the rest of the World, it will also tarnish our image.
There have been several crisises recently in Nigeria, such as the Niger-Delta crisis and political
crisis in Ibadan and some other places to add to this, those responsible for solving these crisis
are engaged in political dispute too.
Positive/Negative Impact:
Nigeria might loose her good global image and all benefits enjoyed from foreign countries.
Solution:
The dispute between President and his Vice should be settled soon, so as to avoid any form of
interference from countirs like America as-in the Iraqi case.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Obasanjo is Nigeria’s master thief –Tinubu by Fabian Ozor and Gbenga Faturoti of Daily Independent
News article can be found at: http://odili.net/news/source/2007/feb/25/617.html
Summary:
During AC (Action Congress) rally in Osogbo, Osun State, Lagos State governor Bola
Ahmed Tinubu while protesting over his accusation of being amongst the EFCC's list of corrupt
politicans in Nigeria has according to Faturoti's report replied that; "if all the 36 governors in the
country were corrupt, then the president was the "master thief".
Governor Tinubu also added that PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) members are scared of their
faith after their tenure and that's their reason for making wrong accusations. Lots of comments
on PDP's accusations were also made by other AD party members.
My View:
It is sad to know that those that are supposed to govern the country are engaging themselves in
an unnecessary dispute over which party rules during the forth coming election. As a Nigerian,
the question now is; What happens next after the election? Will the ruling party revenge on the
other parties? Will all the parties merge and support each other? What will be the focus of the
ruling party? These questions are very important because it is obvious that no party is really
concerned about what their political agenda and what their focus will be if they win.
Positive/Negative Impact:
If the disputes between the political parties are not resolved soon, there might be a problem of
lack of concerntration in future. The future president might spend his few months in power
revenging on the others instead of this primary focus, which should be moving Nigeria forward.
Solution:
A committee should be formed that will involve atleast 10 of each party members towards how
to resolve the current political crisis in Nigeria.
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