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