Politics
2023: Betara and the People’s Mandate
2023: Betara and the People’s Mandate
By: James Bwala
The gathering was not a coincidence nor was it an accidental gathering. There was a saying that where the carcasses are the eagles gathered. So it was with the Saturday May 7, 2022 gathering in Biu local government area of Borno state to celebrate one man – Muktari Betara Aliyu, member representing Biu, Shani, Bayo and Kwaya Kusar federal constituency in Borno state, northeast Nigeria.
The gathering was a party for the kings. Betara Aliyu receives his declaration of intent and nomination forms purchased by his constituents in a grand ceremony. He was received at Gombe International airport in the earlier hours by a large following and preceded to Biu. Leading the crowd is the former Deputy Governor of Borno state, Alhaji Adamu Yuguda Dibal.
The people of Biu local government area said this occasion was the first of its kind. Betara in Biu was received by His Royal Highness, Alh. Mustapha Umar Mustapha lI, The Emir of Biu with a royal kiss to a worthy son and kingly blessings.
NEWSng reports that many who came from far and near have expressed shock at what their eyes have seen and witnessed in Biu. According to some of the guest at the occasion, who testify to their amazement described the Biu gathering for the man, who had been the occupant of the green chamber on behalf of the people of Biu, Shani, Bayo and Kwaya-Kusar as the moments of truth and lessons for every politicians who desire to impact on his People.
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A former chairman in one of the local governments where Betara is representing said the gathering was expected. The Chairman, who asked not to be mentioned said, ‘what do you expect to see of a man who has over two million supporters whom he has impacted on them directly through his numerous people oriented projects and support over the years.
“As of today over one hundred and eight million (N180, 000,000) was realized and more are still coming in support of Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu. This is an exceptional gathering from the people of Conscience. People will always stand by anyone who plays the servantship representation. Betara Aliyu is such an example to emulate. We are happy that we have him. The people of Biu, Shani, Bayo and Kwaya-Kusar Federal constituency are happy. The government and people of Borno state are happy and Nigerians are happy that such a person is coming from a place like this.” He said
Also speaking, a Senior Lawyer based in Abuja, who is also an indigene of Biu local government area of Borno state, Barrister Musa Adamu described Muktari Betara Aliyu as a worthy son. According to him, the federal constituency where Betara is representing has no reasons not to give him such a rousing welcome and gathering.
His words: ” I learnt that the gathering was massive. About N180 million naira was said to have been realized for Muktari. He deserved it. I am happy for him and I believe people like him are what we need.”
Former Commissioner for home affairs information and culture, Borno state, Hon. Inuwa Bwala who graced the occasion in Biu while on phone with NEWSng simply put that Muktari Betara Aliyu needs no opposition owing to his records of achievements.
The former Commissioner who had recently step down his aspiration for the position of federal representative for Askira/Uba and Hawul federal constituency to honour and respect the party leadership plea for realignment in the party and positions says there are many inspiration to drive from Betara for anyone who will be representing the people of Askira/Uba and Hawul federal constituency in the state.
Alhaji Yusuf Adamu, former Political Adviser to former governor of Borno state, Senator Kashim Shittima described the occasion as unequal in the history of federal representation in Biu emirate. Adamu, who has been in politics for decades and served Biu local government as Chairman said, when a man is determined to change the political psyche of his area, this is an opportunity for such politician to have a class with Betara Aliyu.
“We are in the dispensation of knowledge. The people being represented are keen watchers of happenings in the political discourse. Social media has also presented a kind of bold journalism and there are also media men who are out for objectivity reporting. They are able to bring out those who are doing the job and those who are redundant in the house. Hon. Betara Aliyu has been in the house for over a decade and there is never a dull moment even though he never shouts it out. Good people like you have seen his works and have continued to project his image, part of which makes today’s impactful gathering to once again appreciate him.” Adamu said.
2023: Betara and the People’s Mandate
News
Senator Lawan condoles APC Northeast Youth Forum chairman over the demise of his father
Senator Lawan condoles APC Northeast Youth Forum chairman over the demise of his father
By: Yahaya Wakili
President of the Ninth Senate, Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan PhD, GCON, Sardaunan Bade, Yobe North Senatorial District, has paid a condolence visit to the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Northeast Youth Forum, Haruna Adamu Sardaunan, over the passing of his beloved father, Mallam Adamu Isa Bulama, at Potiskum.
During the visit, President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ahmed Lawan, prayed for the repose of his soul.
Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, PhD, GCON, urged his son, Haruna, to draw strength from his father’s memory and continue along the path of dedicated services to our people.
Mallam Adamu Isa Bulama, until his demise, was the chairman of the Yobe State Hunters Association.
Senator Lawan extended his deepest condolences to Haruna and his family and prayed that Allah (SWT) grants them the fortitude to bear this great loss.
“May the soul of Mallam Adamu Isa Bulama rest in Aljannatul Firdaus Amin, Sardaunan prays.
Senator Lawan condoles APC Northeast Youth Forum chairman over the demise of his father
News
Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has called for the prosecution of those that were involved in electoral fraud in the just concluded gubernatorial election in Edo State
A statement on Thursday by the NGO Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said:
“it is important that those responsible for undermining the will of the people are held accountable. The government must be unequivocally reminded that its foremost duty is to serve the interests of the citizens, not to facilitate or condone actions that silence their voices.”
Mamedu said: “For over 15 years, ActionAid Nigeria has been consistent in her work around electoral processes in Nigeria including observing elections in the 36 states and FCT, although not physically present to observe the just concluded Edo State governorship election, we stand firmly in solidarity with our fellow Civil Society organisations and partners who have reported significant irregularities throughout the electoral process. This election has been marred by serious allegations of manipulation and rigging, as thoroughly documented by multiple civil society groups within the state. Disturbing accounts of disruptions at collation centers, including intimidation of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and attempts to manipulate results contrary to established electoral provisions, have raised profound concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
“We recognise that INEC has acknowledged reports of result tampering and has pledged to investigate any proven violations but their track record in conducting free, fair, and transparent elections has been severely undermined by persistent accusations of inefficiency, manipulation, and undue political influence. While the investigation is a step in the right direction, it is important that these investigations translate into swift and effective action.
“Also, beyond the investigation, it is important that those responsible for undermining the will of the people are held accountable.”
He added that: “The time has also come to critically reassess INEC’s role in our electoral system. When an institution entrusted with safeguarding democracy continuously falters, we must explore alternatives. Nigerians deserve an electoral body that is genuinely independent, transparent, and accountable. There is a need to reform INEC as a commission in order to make it more efficient, effective and accountable in carrying out its mandate as an electoral umpire.”
Mamedu said: “A comprehensive electoral reform in Nigeria is urgently needed. First, there must be a complete overhaul of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to create a more transparent, accountable, and independent body, free from political influence and led by individuals of proven integrity.”
He called for more roles for civil society organisations and international observers in Nigeria’s electoral process, stating that: “Civil society organisations and international observers should play a more significant role in observing elections, ensuring that their recommendations are taken seriously, with mechanisms in place for swift action against misconduct.”
He added that: “The adoption of more robust electoral technologies, such as biometric voting systems and real-time result transmission, is crucial to minimizing fraud.
“Security personnel must also be deployed impartially to prevent violence and intimidation, ensuring that party agents, the media, and observers have full access to maintain electoral integrity. It is essential to incorporate technologies like the BVAs and IREV into the Electoral Act.
“The judiciary must uphold its role as the guardian of democracy, prioritising electoral cases with swift, evidence-based verdicts. Any officials found complicit in electoral fraud must be held accountable, necessitating comprehensive reforms in the judicial sector to ensure just outcomes.”
Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
News
Ize-Iyamu congratulates Edo deputy governor-elect Dennis Idahosa
Ize-Iyamu congratulates Edo deputy governor-elect Dennis Idahosa
By: Michael Mike
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has extended his warm congratulations to Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa on his election as the Deputy Governor of Edo State. In a congratulatory message, Ize-Iyamu praised Idahosa’s victory as a reflection of his dedication to public service, noting that the people of Ugboko in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Idahosa’s maternal hometown, are particularly proud of his achievement.
Ize-Iyamu highlighted that Idahosa’s success represents not only his hard work but also his deep connection with the aspirations of the people of Edo State. He expressed confidence in Idahosa’s ability, alongside Governor-elect Sen. Monday Okpebholo, to drive significant progress in the state, given his wealth of experience and passion for development.
He further prayed for wisdom, strength, and courage for the newly elected leaders as they take on the challenges ahead, emphasizing the hope that Edo State would experience peace, unity, and prosperity under their leadership. Ize-Iyamu also expressed optimism about the positive impact the duo would have on the advancement of Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
Ize-Iyamu wished Idahosa success in his tenure as Deputy Governor and looked forward to the transformative leadership he would bring to Edo State.
Ize-Iyamu congratulates Edo deputy governor-elect Dennis Idahosa
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