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INEC has no plans to postpone 2023 elections, says Yakubu

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INEC has no plans to postpone 2023 elections, says Yakubu

The Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu says the commission is not contemplating any adjustment to the election timetable, let alone postpone the 2023 general election.

Yakubu stated this at the presentation of electronic copy of the 93,469,008 voter register to leaders of political parties on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that more than ever before the commission was more prepared for the 2023 general elections and had now successfully implemented 11 out of the 14 activities on schedule for the elections.

“Already, substantial quantities of sensitive and non-sensitive materials have been deployed to various locations across the country.

“The last batch of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) has been received while the ongoing configuration of the critical technology in readiness for elections will soon be completed. In the last two days, we commenced the airlifting of other sensitive materials to States across the country.

“Already, some of the materials for 17 States in three geo-political zones have been delivered. Furthermore, 13,868,441 Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) have been printed, delivered to States and are being collected by citizens as new voters or by existing voters who applied for transfer or replacement of cards as provided by law.

he added that similarly, following the display of the voters’ register nationwide and the conclusion of claims and objections by citizens, a new national register of voters has been compiled.

“In short, at no time in the recent history of the Commission has so much of the forward planning and implementation been accomplished 44 days ahead of a General Election.

“Therefore, the commission is not contemplating any adjustment to the election timetable, let alone the postponement of the General Election.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on Saturday Feb. 25, 2023 while Governorship and State Assembly elections will hold two weeks later on Saturday March 11, 2023.

“The repeated assurance by the security agencies for the adequate protection of our personnel, materials and processes also reinforces our determination to proceed.

“The 2023 General Election will hold as scheduled. Any report to the contrary is not the official position of the Commission.’’

On the register voter, Yakubu said after the cleaning up of the data from the last Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) from June 2021 to July 2022, where 9,518,188 new voters were added to the exiting 84,004,084 voters, the preliminary register voters was 93,522,272.

He said that when the register was presented to Nigerians for claims and objections as required by law, INEC received 53,264 objections from Nigerians to the prevalence of ineligible persons on the register by virtue of age, citizenship or death, which were verified and removed from the register.

“Consequently, the register of voters for the 2023 General Election stands at 93,469,008. Of this cumulative figure, 49,054,162 (52.5 per cent) are male while 44,414,846 (47.5 per cent) are female.

“The distribution by age group shows that 37,060,399 (39.65 per cent ) are youth between the ages of 18 and 34; 33,413,591 (35.75 per cent ) are middle aged persons between the ages of 35 and 49;

“17,700,270 (18.94 per cent ) are elderly voters between the ages of 50 and 69 while 5,294,748 (5.66%) are senior citizens aged 70 and above.

“In terms of occupational distribution, students constitute the largest category with 26,027,481 (27.8%) of all voters, followed by 14,742,554 (15.8 per cent ) Farmers/Fishermen and 13,006,939 (13.9 per cent) housewives.

“The data on disability was not collected for previous registration. However, the cumulative figure of 85,362 persons from the recent CVR indicates that there are 21,150 (24.5 per cent ) persons with Albinism; 13,387 (15.7 per cent ) with physical impediment and 8,103 (9.5 per cent) are blind.”

Yakubu said that the softcopy of the breakdown and analysis would be uploaded to INEC website and social media platforms shortly.

He reiterated INEC commitment to transparent, credible and inclusive 2023 General Election, saying INEC would continue to take every step to protect the sanctity of the votes cast by citizens and to deal with infractions.

This according to Yakubu, includes the arrest and prosecution of persons that attempt to perpetuate illegality at Polling Units on Election Day, be they underaged voters or vote buyers.

On the collection of PVCs at 8,809 Registration Areas/Wards nationwide, Yakubu said that locations for collection could be identified by sending a short text message to any of the two dedicated telephone lines

In his response IPAC Chairman, Yabagi Sani commended INEC efforts in ensuring that power is peacefully transferred in the country; in spite the challenges and plots by anti-democratic agents to truncate the process.

Sani, who was represented by IPAC General Secretary, Yusuf Dantalle said that political parties were resolved to ensure to support INEC, security agencies and traditional rulers for peaceful conduct of 2023 general election.

He said that party leaders were confidence in INEC technology for the election including BVAS and IReV for electronic transmission of result.

Sani said the deployment of the technology would discourage vote buying and situation where people write election results from their rooms and ask INEC official to declare it for people to go to court..

“It makes evidence that so many efforts are in place to ensure that this did not work but we are equally appealing to political party leaders in the country to see that power belongs to God and He gives it to whoever He will.

“We will try the best we can, but we political leaders must the country forward. We do not under intense pressure as if we don’t want this democracy or this election will not succeed.’’

NAN reports that Lagos has the highest number of voters with 7, 060,195, followed by Kano State with 5,921,370 and Kaduna with 4,335,208 registered voters.

Ekiti State has the least registered voters with 987,647, followed by Bayelsa with 1,056,862 and Yobe with 1,485,146 registered voters.

INEC has no plans to postpone 2023 elections, says Yakubu

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The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

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VP Shettima and Datti Ahmed

The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

By: Dr. James Bwala

The recent Arise TV interview featuring Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed offers a revealing insight into the emotional and psychological underpinnings of his persistent criticisms against Vice President Kashim Shettima. Ahmed’s palpable frustration, stemming from a profound sense of political defeat, underscores much of his rhetoric. This emotional response can be interpreted as more than mere personal grievance; it reflects the broader dynamics of political rivalry and the ways in which loss can provoke vehement opposition. The interview serves as a case study in how individuals navigate political setbacks by redirecting their energies toward vocal dissent.

Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed’s political trajectory following his defeat in the 2023 vice-presidential election vividly illustrates the tension between personal ambition and collective opposition within Nigerian politics. As a prominent figure of the Labour Party, Baba Ahmed’s response to his loss was marked by evident frustration rooted in his perception of systemic challenges facing Nigeria’s opposition coalition. Indeed, Yusuf Datti Baba Ahmed embodies an “angry politician” who cannot conceal the pains of electoral defeat because it symbolizes not just personal loss but also a failure to galvanize effective opposition. His critiques offer insightful reflections on Nigeria’s complex political landscape, where ambitions clash with collective action imperatives. Thus, Baba Ahmed’s post-defeat rhetoric serves as both a lamentation and a rallying cry for transformative political engagement. Therefore, I will be kind to him. 

Ahmed’s attacks on Shettima are emblematic of the complex interplay between personal ambition and public discourse within Nigerian politics. His frustration reveals an attempt to reclaim relevance and influence by challenging established figures, thereby highlighting the often contentious nature of political engagement. This scenario illustrates how defeat not only shapes individual behavior but also impacts wider political narratives, contributing to an environment where criticism is frequently fueled by underlying emotions rather than solely policy disagreements.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

Ahmed’s approach can be seen as a strategic maneuver to galvanize support among those who feel similarly disenfranchised, thereby forging a collective identity rooted in shared discontent. By doing so, he taps into a reservoir of communal frustration, transforming personal loss into a rallying cry for broader political resistance. 

The interview on Arise TV not only exposes Ahmed’s inability to manage political defeat gracefully but also underscores the lingering psychological impact Shettima has on him. Baba Ahmed’s remarks reveal a politician struggling with the aftermath of the 2023 presidential elections, unable to reconcile with his loss. This behavior highlights a weakness in political maturity and resilience, qualities essential for effective leadership. Instead of focusing on constructive political engagement post-defeat, Baba Ahmed’s public outburst suggests an ongoing fixation that detracts from his credibility.

The tactics Baba Ahmed is trying to apply on the road to 2027 not only amplify his voice but also position him as a prominent figure within an opposition movement, eager to challenge the status quo. Through these actions, Ahmed effectively channels his personal grievances into a broader political strategy, seeking to redefine the narrative around leadership and accountability in contemporary Nigerian politics. His rhetoric, therefore, serves as both a personal catharsis and a calculated attempt to reshape the political landscape by questioning the legitimacy and effectiveness of those in power. In doing so, Ahmed not only underscores the emotional dimensions of political rivalry but also invites a critical examination of the mechanisms through which power is contested and maintained. 

This dynamic underscores the complexity of political discourse, where personal vendettas often intertwine with genuine calls for reform, blurring the lines between personal animosity and legitimate critique. As such, the intensity of Ahmed’s rhetoric can be seen as a reflection of the broader societal tensions that permeate the political arena. In this context, Ahmed’s vehement critiques of Vice President Kashim Shettima can be perceived as both an expression of his own political ambitions and a mirror to the frustrations felt since the 2023 defeat. The fervor with which Ahmed addresses these issues suggests a deep-seated desire to channel public disillusionment into actionable political change, amplifying the voices of those who feel marginalized by the current administration.

However, what Yusuf Baba Ahmed did not know is that his taking his legs to go and grant further illustrates that Vice President Shettima’s personality continues to “haunt” and affect Baba Ahmed deeply, suggesting a complex dynamic extending beyond mere electoral rivalry. Such personal animosities can undermine democratic discourse by shifting attention from policy issues to personal grievances. In sum, this episode reflects poorly on Datti Baba Ahmed’s political conduct while inadvertently affirming the lasting influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s contemporary political landscape.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Arise TV Interview: Datti Ahmed’s Poor Political Conduct and the Lasting Influence of VP Shettima in Nigeria’s Contemporary Political Landscape

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Kashim Shettima: Hate him, like him, the vice president is a child of necessity holding the pillars of APC together for greater glory in 2027.

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VP Kashim Shettima

Kashim Shettima: Hate him, like him, the vice president is a child of necessity holding the pillars of APC together for greater glory in 2027.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s Vice President, embodies a paradoxical figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 2027 elections approach. His tenure has been met with contrasting sentiments: while some vehemently oppose him, others staunchly support his leadership. The complexities surrounding his political standing arise from internal party divisions and regional dynamics that significantly influence APC’s cohesion. Notably, certain elements pushing for Shettima’s replacement underscore some of the challenges Shettima faces as a true pillar standing with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

As advocates for Shettima, we shall continue to emphasize his indispensable role in maintaining party unity and stability. His governance during Borno State’s insurgency crisis and subsequent contributions to national peace and economic empowerment have garnered significant regional backing. This support is crucial as the APC grapples with factionalism that threatens its electoral prospects.

Ultimately, Shettima represents a “child of necessity” holding together fragile pillars within the APC. Despite controversies and opposition, he remains pivotal for consolidating northern support essential for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The party’s future cohesion may well depend on reconciling divergent interests around this contentious yet unifying figure.

The Vice President has emerged as a significant figure in Nigerian politics, often regarded as a prophetic voice advocating for unity and progress. His leadership style embodies resilience and foresight, qualities that position him as a steadfast figure likely to maintain influence until at least 2031. This perception stems from his consistent emphasis on national cohesion and socio-economic development, which resonates deeply across diverse communities. 

Shettima’s strategic engagement with both grassroots movements and political elites underscores his potential to remain a pivotal actor in Nigeria’s political landscape. His advocacy transcends mere rhetoric; it reflects a commitment to transformative policies aimed at fostering sustainable growth. Such attributes reinforce the belief that his voice will continue to shape discourse well into the next decade. 

Vice President Kashim Shettima exemplifies a prophetic leadership model grounded in vision and perseverance. His enduring relevance is not merely speculative but anchored in tangible contributions toward national progress. As Nigeria navigates complex challenges ahead, Shettima’s role as a voice of prophecy remains crucial for guiding collective aspirations through 2031.

The controversy surrounding the potential replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the 2027 presidential race has been a focal point of political discourse within Nigeria’s ruling party, the APC. Notably, those advocating for Shettima’s substitution are often identified as opponents of President Tinubu, suggesting that attempts to displace the vice president are politically motivated rather than grounded in governance concerns. This dynamic underscores how internal party disputes frequently manifest as broader conflicts involving key political figures.

Despite mounting speculation and unrest within APC ranks—highlighted by violent reactions at a North-East stakeholders’ meeting—the party leadership has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to the Tinubu-Shettima ticket. Senior officials have denounced rumors of friction or plans to replace Shettima as baseless and detrimental to party unity. These statements emphasize that such rumors often arise from misunderstandings or deliberate attempts to destabilize the administration’s cohesion.

It is, therefore, evident that resistance against President Tinubu correlates with efforts to undermine Vice President Shettima’s position. The official discourse from APC leadership portrays these efforts as distractions fueled by political adversaries rather than genuine policy disagreements. Maintaining unity around the current ticket appears crucial for preserving stability within both the party and Nigeria’s broader political landscape. 

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

It is high time, therefore, for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognize the intricate dynamics within his party and government, particularly the emerging coalition of oppositions that could challenge his leadership ahead of the 2027 elections. Despite the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) endorsing Tinubu for a second term, underlying tensions and factionalism within the party merit serious attention. The president’s reforms have elicited mixed reactions, with criticisms regarding economic challenges and insecurity fueling dissent among some APC members.

Today, opposition parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have actively accused Tinubu’s administration of efforts to destabilize their unity while simultaneously consolidating themselves into a formidable coalition aimed at political transformation. This evolving political landscape necessitates that President Tinubu reaffirm his grip on power by addressing internal fractures decisively. Failure to do so may embolden these coalitions and undermine his prospects in 2027.

As coalition dynamics evolve within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the role of Vice President Kashim Shettima remains central to the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) prospects for success in the 2027 elections. Despite internal contestations and factional disputes, Shettima’s political influence, particularly in Northern Nigeria, positions him as a pivotal figure whose endorsement could consolidate regional support crucial for APC’s electoral strategy. The Northeast bloc’s endorsement of Shettima alongside President Tinubu underscores his significance despite dissent from some party officials.

Official statements from the presidency have sought to quell rumors about Shettima’s potential exclusion from the 2027 ticket, emphasizing that final decisions will be made post-APC convention and dismissing narratives of discord between Tinubu and Shettima. This institutional backing reinforces Shettima’s status as a key player within APC. In sum, while ADC coalitions are still establishing their footing ahead of 2027, VP Kashim Shettima’s political capital remains a cornerstone for APC’s electoral viability.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Kashim Shettima: Hate him, like him, the vice president is a child of necessity holding the pillars of APC together for greater glory in 2027.

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2027: Coalition only way to send APC packing from Gombe, Nigeria- Group

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2027: Coalition only way to send APC packing from Gombe, Nigeria- Group

Alliance for Good Governance, a political group comprising 108 other groups within the state has declared support for opposition parties’ move to unseat the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government in the state and country.

Hon. Ahmed Usman Haruna, convener of the meeting and Co-ordinator of the Group while speaking during their meeting in Gombe on Tuesday said it had become imperative for political stakeholders to unite for victory in 2027.

Haruna said that the only way to defeat APC in 2027 in the state and country was to unite beyond political differences using a coalition that provide a platform for all well-meaning Nigerians to contribute their efforts towards sending APC out of government.

He said that the APC-led government had failed on its promise to deliver a better Nigeria as majority of citizens had been impoverished by their harsh economic policies and programmes.

The coordinator added that since the coalition was working towards bringing good governance to Nigeria, “we are fully in support of the coalition and we have over 108 groups here and we are going to mobilise more to end the pain-inflicting rule of APC in Gombe State and Nigeria.

“We are here to declare our support for the way out that we are seeing on ground through the movement for the coalition in Nigeria. Of course coalition is the way out.

“If APC is in government, then the only thing that we need is an alternative political party that will get them out from office”, he said.

Haruna urged stakeholders to create more awareness in their communities towards boosting political awareness and participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

2027: Coalition only way to send APC packing from Gombe, Nigeria- Group

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