Politics
Understanding VP Shettima: The Sokoto government on dancing to the sultanate
Understanding VP Shettima: The Sokoto government on dancing to the sultanate
By: Dr. James Bwala
I do not think those trying to escalate the statement attributed to Vice President Kashim Shettima over his comments at the North-West Peace and Security Summit in Katsina State have a full understanding of the issues surrounding the relationship between the Sokoto state government and the Sultanate, which also informed the needs that brought to note the larger scale of the vice president’s message to the Sokoto state government.
It is not that the Vice President is trying to meddle in the affairs of the state of Sokoto but simply cautioning on the political moves from a question raised between the Sokoto state government and the Sultan, which is becoming sensitive to peace and security not only of Sokoto and the Northwest region but also Nigeria on a larger scale as the sultanate is a reflection of religion not only to the people of Sokoto but to every Muslim, which I believe is the fear raised by Professor Isiaq Akintola, the Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Council (MURIC).
Another concern that informed Kashim Shettima’s massage directed at the deputy governor of Sokoto state for the government is for the government to understand that if there are any such moves, it will not only end in the Sokoto enclaves but will affect every citizen of Nigeria, whether Muslim or Christian, because the experiences in Kano state are already a pointer to say “NO” to another traditional seat dragging and for Sokoto it is not going to be about that traditional institution but a drag that may temper a religious institution, which the country cannot afford any act of violence in that direction that will further stretch the federal government efforts towards peacebuilding.
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From the statement of Professor Isiaq Akintola, the Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Council (MURIC), the political play that want to unveil in Sokoto for whatever position in the government understanding of the wake in new relationship between the government and the sultanate—the pointer was never to malign the governor’s position as the chief executive of the state but certainly to advise the government that certain actions may not end in his control alone, as such it is not heroic to pull triggers that will engulf the nation in violence as
Nigerian Muslims would strongly oppose any attempts to depose the Sultan, particularly after the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu, deposed 15 traditional rulers over political alignment, according to reports circulating.
So, the vice president was looking largely at the efforts the federal government is already putting in place, one of which calls for the North-West Peace and Security Summit in Katsina State. Shettima stressed that the Sultan transcends his role as a mere monarch, embodying a significant concept. He highlighted the necessity for the Sultan and other traditional leaders across the nation to vigorously protect, promote, and sustain the advancement of the country.
According to the VP, when it comes to all matters concerning the progress of our nation, we must recognize and appreciate the role played by His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, as a symbol of guidance and influence among all the royal figures gathered here. “To the deputy governor of Sokoto, I have a straightforward message: the Sultan is not just a regional ruler but an embodiment of an important idea. He represents an esteemed institution that requires our diligent protection, advocacy, and preservation for the enhancement of our national development.”
So, what is wrong with the VP’s message here? The Sokoto governor’s spokesperson, Abubakar Bawa, hinted in a response to the ongoing airings that the governor said Shettima should have contacted him to verify the news that made the rounds on the purported plan to depose Sultan Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar before going public. According to him, there was never any attempt to sack the Sultan. But it was not only Kashim Shettima who heard about the brewing political new relationship in Sokoto that is dancing towards the sultanate.
And if indeed, the VP is all ears about what is happening across the country, It is not about issues to verify because Professor Isiaq Akintola, the Executive Director of the Muslim Rights Council (MURIC), could not have come this far, and this is also not about the Sultan enjoying all the powers he is entitled to and that the state government has never denied him any of his freedom or rights. But this is about stepping on the smoky grass in the winter. The VP acted in good faith and spoke well with a defined message. Nigeria cannot afford another shaky situation around the peace and security of its citizens.
- Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Understanding VP Shettima: The Sokoto government on dancing to the sultanate
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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