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2023 Election: Nigeria Assures EU, it would be the best in history of the country

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2023 Election: Nigeria Assures EU, it would be the best in history of the country

By Michael Mike

The Nigerian government has assured the European Union that no Nigerian would be denied his/her human rights,

It also said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been given all needed resources by the government to conduct what will be the best elections in the annal of the nation’s history.

This assurance was given on Friday in Abuja by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Zubairu Dada during the 6th Round of the Nigeria – European Union Human Rights Dialogue.

He said: “The Nigerian government, led by President Muhammadu Buhari will continue to work to ensure that all Nigerians are not denied their inalienable rights.”

On the meeting which discussed issues including the upcoming Elections, Asset Recovery, Migration, Humanitarian Situations and International Humanitarian Law, etcetera, the Minister said: “These issues are dear to our hearts and I am glad we can provide clarity on issues that the European Union member states will have questions on and vice versa.”

He added that: “On the topics for discussion today, you must have all noted the strides that government has made in the past decade to improve the election process and integrity. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received needed resources from government and ready to conduct what will be our best elections ever. The Security agencies are also working to ensure that people will be able to carry out their civic responsibility without fear. They are ready to act swiftly to protect life and properties around the country during the election.l

He noted that in arranging this dialogue, “my colleagues in the Ministries of Justice, Women Affairs, Police Affairs, Defence, Humanitarian Affairs/Disaster Management and Social Development, as well as the Office of the National Security Advisers were very involved. I am grateful for their inputs and I hope the discussions today will help deepen the enjoyment of human rights in Nigeria and in all European Union member states, for our citizens and visitors.”

He also assured that President Muhammadu Buhari is committed to tackling all issues that are necessary for all Nigerians to live in peace, prosperity and dignity, noting that: “This issues which range from fighting crime and extremism to tackling corruption and asset recovery requires unwavering national commitment as well as international cooperation, particularly, as it concerns sharing of knowledge and best practices, as well as provision of financial resources needed for developmental purposes. We will continue to count on our European Union partners to stand with us to resolve these problems.”

He added that “we will continue to work to deepen cooperation on how to fast track asset recovery and commit to zero tolerance for both the source and recipients of the proceeds of corruption.

“Also, we will count on European countries to simplify evidentiary requirements and other mutual legal assistance procedures for timely recovery and return of recovered assets. Furthermore, we will continue to do our utmost to ensure that our people who had fled conflicts in the Lake Chad area can begin to return home voluntarily, safely and with dignity.”

The Minister, also assured that: “We will continue to urge that all European Union member states commit to safe, orderly and regular migration,” stressing that. “There is no doubt in our mind that there must be firm commitments to eliminating all forms of discrimination against migrants.”

After emerging from a close door meeting with the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms Samuela Isopi and some ambassadors from European countries in Nigeria, the Director (International Organisation Department) in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Samson Itegboje, told journalists that Nigeria used the opportunity of the meeting to inform the diplomats that it was prepared for the 2023 elections and that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies were ready for the elections.

He further disclosed that other prominent issues discussed include the promise that the Nigerian government will continue to make technical and financial commitments to provide hope and restore the dignity of life for the millions of Nigerians affected by the crisis around the Lake Chad Basin. The assistance through the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) which targets the poor and vulnerable population will continue.

He added that: “Nigeria and European Union member states must play their parts to ensure safe, orderly and regular migration, while we address the push and pull factors that make people embark on perilous journeys across the Atlantic, in search of greener pastures. Nigeria expects that all migrants, regardless of their status, must be respected and protected across all stages of the migration cycle. There must also be firm commitments to eliminating all forms of discrimination against migrants, including racism, intolerance and xenophobia.”

He said “both parties agreed that it was important to continue to cooperate with one another and share experiences and global best practices necessary for developing capacities on how best to ensure that our people are able to live in dignity, no matter their circumstance.”

On her part, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms Samuela Isopi said the meeting was fruitful and there was the need to continue to have it from time to time.

She noted that Europe was happy with assurances received and the preparation for the elections.

She said some agreements were made and that the EU would be happy to work with the next administration in the country.

2023 Election: Nigeria Assures EU, it would be the best in history of the country

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President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.

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President Tinubu and Vice President, Kashim Shettima

President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.

By: Dr. James Bwala

President Bola Tinubu’s public expressions of gratitude toward Vice President Kashim Shettima for his integral role before, during, and after the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari signify a consolidation of their political alliance amid circulating rumors regarding Shettima’s potential replacement. In a widely viewed address, Tinubu explicitly acknowledged Shettima’s efforts in managing sensitive responsibilities surrounding Buhari’s final days and funeral arrangements, thereby underscoring the trust placed in him. This public commendation is particularly noteworthy given the speculation about discord within the administration, which had suggested that Shettima might be sidelined.

The president’s deliberate acknowledgment not only affirms Shettima’s loyalty but also indicates a strategic move to quell uncertainties about internal leadership dynamics. By highlighting Shettima’s pivotal involvement during this national moment of mourning, Tinubu appears to reinforce unity within his government and project stability to both domestic and international audiences. Such gestures are essential in maintaining cohesive governance during transitional periods marked by political sensitivities. Indeed, this public affirmation serves to dispel any notions of internal discord and emphasizes a unified front within the presidency. 

By publicly lauding Shettima’s contributions, Tinubu not only addresses the rumors head-on but also strategically positions his administration as resilient and unified in the face of potential political upheaval. In doing so, Tinubu not only strengthens his alliance with Shettima but also aims to present a cohesive leadership team that can effectively navigate the challenges posed by such a significant transition. As President Tinubu continues to publicly express gratitude towards Vice President Shettima, it becomes increasingly clear that this relationship is not only intact but also pivotal in navigating the complexities of governance. 

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/vp-shettima-president-tinubus-bold-policies-in-the-interest-of-nigerians/

This strategic acknowledgment is further underscored by Tinubu’s emphasis on collaborative governance, highlighting the administration’s commitment to continuity and collective effort. As the administration navigates this delicate period, Tinubu’s public commendation of Shettima’s efforts sends a clear message of solidarity and mutual respect. 

The public nature of these expressions ensures that any speculation regarding Shettima’s replacement is directly addressed, reinforcing the administration’s unity and shared purpose during this sensitive period. By reinforcing Shettima’s integral role and expressing appreciation for his efforts, President Tinubu not only dispels any doubts about their working relationship but also strengthens the perception of a stable and united leadership team. This approach not only quells any uncertainty but also emphasizes a narrative of resilience and cooperation within the highest echelons of government. 

The public acknowledgment of Vice President Kashim Shettima’s contributions by President Bola Tinubu serves as a strategic affirmation of their collaborative governance and seeks to dispel any lingering doubts about their relationship. This gesture, in the context of circulating rumors and misinterpretations, sends a clear message to critics and skeptics who perceive discord within the administration. By openly recognizing Shettima’s role, Tinubu not only reinforces unity but also counters unfounded speculation regarding internal struggles.

Moreover, such an explicit endorsement aligns with calls from political commentators urging the president to directly address replacement rumors that have fueled division. The clarity offered through this public commendation diminishes space for mischief and undermines narratives that seek to destabilize the administration. Given prior instances where Shettima’s statements were misconstrued yet reaffirmed as supportive of Tinubu’s policies, this move consolidates trust within the executive branch and signals stability to both domestic and international observers.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

President Tinubu’s public acknowledgment of VP Kashim Shettima’s role underscores the trust placed in him.

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Nigeria: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

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Late former president, Muhammadu Buhari

Nigeria: Politics: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

By: Dr. James Bwala

The death of former President Muhammadu Buhari has significantly disrupted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition’s strategy ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections. The ADC had planned to leverage Buhari’s political legacy to challenge the ruling party, particularly targeting Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. However, with Buhari’s passing, the coalition faces internal disarray as their anticipated advantage dissipates, complicating efforts to unify opposition forces and capitalize on northern political sentiments. 

The ADC has openly criticized President Tinubu’s administration for exploiting Buhari’s death to improve its own public image. The party accuses the government of orchestrating a “political theater” through federal tributes designed as calculated PR stunts, aiming to garner sympathy among Buhari loyalists and consolidate support in the north. This appropriation undermines opposition narratives that sought to use Buhari’s legacy as a counterweight against Tinubu and Shettima.

Buhari’s death has not only unsettled opposition coalitions like the ADC but also enabled the ruling government to manipulate public sentiment strategically. The evolving political landscape demands new approaches from opposition groups if they are to remain competitive in the forthcoming elections. 

As the political scene shifts, the ADC and other opposition parties must reevaluate their strategies to effectively counter the ruling party’s growing influence and maintain relevance in Nigerian politics.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/jonathan-marwa-onyema-16-others-to-be-honoured-at-dican-conference/

The ADC and its allies must now craft a narrative that resonates with the electorate, focusing on policy-driven agendas rather than relying solely on Buhari’s legacy to galvanize support. In this context, the ADC and its coalition partners are urged to adopt innovative campaigning strategies that prioritize tangible policy proposals addressing economic development, security, and social welfare to effectively engage a diverse voter base across Nigeria.

The ADC coalition must build robust alliances with civil society organizations and grassroots movements to amplify their reach and effectively challenge the entrenched political structures that favor the incumbents. The ADC’s ability to articulate a clear vision for Nigeria’s future while addressing the electorate’s immediate concerns will be crucial in countering the ruling party’s narrative and regaining political ground. 

To achieve this, they must also navigate the complex political dynamics that have emerged in the wake of Buhari’s death. With Buhari no longer a unifying figure, the ADC and its allies face the daunting task of redefining their identity and political message to resonate with a broader audience. However, to successfully reposition themselves, the coalition must also address internal discord and unify their ranks to present a cohesive front that can withstand both political and public scrutiny. Moreover, the coalition’s efforts must be strategically aligned to counter any attempts by the ruling party to exploit Buhari’s legacy for political gain since they claimed the ruling party is already gaining from Buhari’s death. 

A peep into recent developments within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition has revealed emerging sentiments of regret among some members regarding the defection of key figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. These “feelers” suggest that certain individuals who left the APC, particularly associates of former President Buhari, may be reconsidering their decisions due to unforeseen political challenges and instability within their new alignments. The dynamics underscore the complexities inherent in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, where shifting allegiances often reflect strategic calculations as much as ideological commitments.

While official sources and detailed analyses remain scarce, such internal reflections within the ADC coalition highlight potential fractures that could influence electoral outcomes and party cohesion. This situation aligns with broader observations about Nigeria’s opposition coalitions struggling to present a unified front against dominant parties. Understanding these regrets provides critical insight into how political realignments might affect both intra-party stability and national electoral strategies moving forward. 

This introspection may also indicate a broader dissatisfaction with the current trajectory of the ADC, as it struggles to accommodate diverse political interests and ambitions within its ranks. Moreover, the decision to defect appears increasingly precarious as the ADC grapples with internal divisions and questions about its capacity to serve as a viable opposition platform. As the political landscape continues to shift, these internal tensions could lead to a reevaluation of strategic alliances and prompt key figures to reconsider their roles within the ADC. This growing sense of uncertainty may compel some members to seek reconciliation with the APC or explore alternative political alliances that promise greater stability and influence.

While this political storms raged, the activities of both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice President, Distinguished Senator Kashim Shettima during the recent burial ceremony has been critically analyzed by a renowned political analyst who posited that the event underscored the formidable alliance between Bola Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. 

This observation highlights how the ceremony served not merely as a cultural or religious rite but also as a potent political statement. By showcasing unity and solidarity, the event effectively dismantled attempts by detractors to sow discord between these two influential figures. The analyst’s perspective suggests that such public displays of cohesion reinforce their combined political capital, which is essential in navigating Nigeria’s complex political landscape.

The burial ceremony functioned as a symbolic platform where communal respect and shared values were emphasized, reflecting positively on Tinubu and Shettima’s partnership. The orchestrated unity at this solemn occasion counteracted divisive narratives propagated by opposition forces aiming to weaken their collaboration. Thus, the analyst’s insight reveals how socio-political events can transcend their immediate contexts to influence broader power dynamics, reinforcing alliances crucial for effective governance and political stability.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nigeria: Buhari’s death has thrown the ADC Coalition into chaos, as plans to ride the former president’s political fortunes against Tinubu and Shettima in 2027 collapsed.

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2027: Coalition embarks on grassroots mobilisation to oust APC in Gombe

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2027: Coalition embarks on grassroots mobilisation to oust APC in Gombe

Some opposition party members in Gombe State under the auspices of Gombe State Working Group have called on its members to work together to achieve success in 2027 elections and unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government of Gov. Inuwa Yahaya.

Mr Jibrin Barde, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s 2023 governorship candidate who stated this at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Gombe on Friday, said the coalition would only succeed when they work in unity and put personal interest aside.


Barde expressed optimism that the opposition coalition would defeat the ruling APC in the next general elections.


He emphasised the need for all members to embrace unity to achieve the lofty aspirations of their movement, stressing that harnessing collective strength of the coalition would help them achieve their goal.


He stated that the coalition movement was not about individuals, hence admonished the stakeholders to prioritise the collective interest of the fold above all else.


Barde described the APC government in Gombe as “incompetent and insensitive,” accusing it of failing to improve residents’ welfare and overall governance.


“The APC has failed in Gombe State and we can not allow them to continue their misrule which would further inflict pain on residents.
“We are here to bring better days and ensure a brighter future for all our citizens; this is why we want power to change the narrative for the good of the people,” he said.


Barde stressed the importance of mobilising grassroots politicians and leaders of thought to fortify the movement towards entrenching good governance in Gombe State.


Also speaking, Mr Adamu Modibbo, Social Democratic Party (SDP) chairman in the state, urged other political groups and residents to join the coalition to achieve inclusive governance for the state’s collective benefit.
Modibbo further urged opposition parties in the state yet to be part of the coalition to join the movement to fortify the coalition ahead of 2027.

For Labour Party chairman in the state, Mr Benjamin Abner, “this is the time to get the job done by mobilising massively to get new members and fortify ourselves for the task ahead.”


Abner urged party members to take membership drive seriously instead of waiting till 2027.


In a related development, Barde in company of Modibbo and other SDP stalwarts had on Thursday held similar meeting at Akko Local Government Area were they were received by mammoth crowd.

Barde urged the party supporters to embark on massive grassroots mobilisation across the LGA towards achieving the target of the coalition group in the state, adding that the APC was already scared of the coalition movement in the state.

2027: Coalition embarks on grassroots mobilisation to oust APC in Gombe

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