FUL Set To Confer Honorary Doctorate On Hon James Faleke

All is now set for the conferment of a Honourary Doctorate Degree on the member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Hon. James Abiodun Faleke by the Federal University Lokoja (FUL).

The Honour will be confered on the Philanthropist cum seasoned Federal Lawmaker at the combined 6th and 7th Convocation of the Institution.

In a letter signed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, the honour was in recognition of his performance in Local administration, electoral reforms, executive advisory roles, national ethics and values and due process in public procurement.

“On behalf of the Senate and Management of the University, I write to congratulate you on the assumption of office as Member, House of Representative & Chairman, House Committee on Finance of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I am pleased to inform you that the Governing Council and Senate of Federal University Lokoja have approved that you be conferred with Doctor of Letters D.Litt. (Honoris Causa), at her 6th & 7th Convocation Ceremony scheduled for October 16th-21st 2023. This is in recognition of your immense contribution to the growth of democracy, particularly in Local Council development, electoral reforms, executive advisory roles, national ethics and values and due process in public procurement.

“The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) was established by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2011, to expand the access to quality tertiary education in Nigeria, especially to catchment areas, the host Community and other parts of North- Central Nigeria. The University Currently offers 59 academic programmes in Six Faculties and a College of Health Sciences with a student population of about 10,000. The University is very relevant to the history of Nigeria as its location is the first Capital of Nigeria and the Confluence state which has become a melting points for Nigerians from diverse cultures and language. Our Post-graduate and undergraduate students are drawn from all the state of the federation, thereby making the University a unifying academic Institution of the country.

“An Honorary Doctorate award acknowledges that the recipient deserves some recognition for some unparalleled achievement in their lifetime, we would be honoured to have you as Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) of Federal University Lokoja, Nigeria.

 

KogiWest Rally: APC Campaign DG, Hon. Funsho Olumoko thanks supporters and party faithfulls

Hon. Funsho Olumoko, Director General, Kogi West Senatorial District APC Governorship Campaign Council appreciates supporters 🙏

Excerpt

Good morning wonderful Teammates ,your contributions in all ramifications made kabba loud,befitting and victory assured yesterday to all of you,i say egbasibe 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻. 

You are all fantastically wonderful. 

My special appreciation goes to God Almighty who enabled us all to contribute in no small measure to the success,hitch free programme, journey mercies,peace and tranquility,to him alone be all the glory.

To our  God anointed Governor His Excellency Yahaya Adoza Bello,the deputy Governor, our pride Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman,the governor in waiting, other dignitaries, all Directorate and members,party faithful,security personnel and members of the press crew our Royal fathers, I say a big thank you for adding colour,glamour and beauty to the event, may your ways continue to prosper and our dear state. 

Let's keep a date with destiny on the 11th of November 2023.

Thank you all.

Dr Betta Edu: The Classical Humanitarian Queen- Hon AB Ahmad

 

She is indeed a unifier and a bridge builder. An astute political Algebra with compartmentalizing drive towards unifying the diverse ethnic groups of Nigeria. While serving as the APC National Woman Leader, Dr. Betta Edu brought to bear wealth of experience from the health sector, as a trained physician and a one time Honourable Commissioner for health, Cross River State.

Many where expecting her to be in-charge of the health ministry at the federal level. Her passion, sagacity, love and care to humanity in particular, the less privileged ones before, during and after the Presidential elections might have been part of the reasons why she is now assigned the exalted seat of the Hon Minister for Humanitarian and Poverty Alliviation.

The QUEEN, as she is fondly called by Hon Ahmed, has dominated the media space ever since she was so appointed as minister Federal Republic of Nigeria, overseeing the humanitarian ministery. So far she has appointed many Nigerians, majority of who are youths across religions and ethnic groups. She is now seen as the pillar that promote and appreciate cultural diversity of her father land. Nigerians by now, I believed are appreciating HE President Tinubu for finding her worthy to serve in that capacity. 

As rightly put by Mr. Martin Griffiit, the UN Under-General Secretary for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief at the high-level side at New York, United States, *Dr Betta is a new force of Nature in the Humanitarian Community and in the world who will keep the whole world on their toes and make them work harder* 

This powerful assertion is an indication that, the Hon. Minister is not unaware of the role of inclusivity in peace building, peaceful co-existence, interpersonal and communal relationship. Hence, more reasons why she is building a strong team that will in no distance time place her above other appointees i.e ministers.

Nigerian youths therefore want to thank Mr. President for this talent hunt and assuring him that the iron lady will not disappoint him and Nigerians. *Betta4betterNigeria*

 Credited to Hon AB AHMAD*

GYB mandate was predestined and his shameful exit too is equally divine.

“No one can receive anything unless God gives it from heaven" John 3:27. 

The death of Prince Audu Abubakar that gave GYB opportunity to govern Kogi State was clearly an act permitted by the most high God. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 

God put people in positions majorly to serve his people and to make life bearable for them. For He,  takes delight only in the prosperity of His people and not their suffering. When such leaders assume the position of authority, the choice is theirs to be vessels unto honour or an instrument of torture and yoke on their subjects' neck.

But any path taken has its own rewards and/or consequence, as the case maybe. Even the Kings used by God to afflict pains on His people were severely punished by God afterwards.

From King Nebuchadnezzar, to King Pharaoh, to Hazael, king of Syria, to Saul, king of Israel, to Herod the Great, king of Judea; all the aforementioned kings were severely punished for their wickedness. 

For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? Roman 13:1-3

One common, but  grievous feature of  wicked leaders is PRIDE. GYB pride, wickedness, gluttony and recklessness is legendary. This is a governor who will be expecting those who can father him to be prostrating or kneeling down for him. Bullying and threatening royal fathers that are old enough to be his grandfather.

GYB is reputedly cruel and treacherous, pursuing his own interests at the expense of his state. As a civil servant in Kogi State, you will be lucky to receive percentage salary or for many, no salary at all throughout his years of ignominious reign, plunging families into endless anguish, pains and pineries.

Quos Deus vult perdere, prius dementat: "Whom the gods would destroy, they first make mad". This insanity was witnessed during his open confrontation with the much respected Ohinohi of Ebira Land. To GYB, the King was just like one of his boys that he could ordered around, and when his commands are not fearfully obeyed, he issued queries and threats to dethrone. The tears and pains of the civil servants he torment day and night is pushing him to misbehaved and leading him to path of destruction.

GYB has no single regard for his appointees and all elective political office holders in Kogi State. How will you deceive ten (10) of your appointees to go and buy Guber form, only to force them to stepdown for your preferred candidate. These people you wasted their fifty million naira (N50,000,000) and scornfully mocking them that they can't do anything are not happy with you. 

He promised  and boasted openly Infront of camera in his usually way of lying and deceiving people at  APC stakeholders meeting  to return the money of the aspirants that were manipulated during the last primaries of the state houses of Assembly, House of Reps and Senates to suit his imposed candidates. He has not been able to return the money as he boasted Infront of camera. He scammed them but don't worry those aspirants will work against your candidate at the governorship election by November.

For your information, Ododo will come a distance third and not even second. Some of the appointees who have little capacity  will work against you, but covertly. I said little capacity, because no one will love to listen to any GYB associates on who to vote for. You have succeeded in destroying their reputations and voices. Your abysmal performance is a big burden most of them are carrying about.

More importantly, relying on federal might or party in power to impose your candidate against the people's wish will not work this time. JAGABAN regime is not the same as that of BUHARI. The same way your recommended candidate couldn't make the ministerial list and your APC DNPC couldn't make it, same way ODODO will fail and heaven will not fall. 

The state will be liberated from your evil claws and the oppressed civil servants and pensioners will sing a victorious song. The disrespected royal fathers will laugh at your fall. Your party members, leaders and intended delegates you denied the little they should get from proper primaries are already rejoicing over your tribunal and APC NDPC issues. 

Some of your appointees you wasted their N50M can't wait to seeing you drinking from the bitter cup of anguish you forced down their throats. The people you labelled ANTELOPES will be free from the daily insults and your endless tongue-lashing and castigation.

AS THE PEOPLE AWAIT TO CELEBRATE GYB SHAMEFUL EXIT, ALL HIS RECENT PREDICAMENTS ARE SIGNALS THAT WE SHOULD HOLD THE FORT, THAT LIBERATION IS NEAR.

FIERCE AND LONG THE PAINS  RAGES, BUT OUR VICTORY AS THE OPPRESSED IS NEAR. 

CHIEF SESERE JOB MONDAY

X-raying Meseko’s first 100 days as APC’s deputy spokesman

Veteran journalist and politician of note, Durosinmi Meseko, alongside five other new members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC), was sworn in as Deputy National Publicity Secretary (DNPS) of the ruling party on Friday, August 25, 2023.

The events preceding the inauguration ceremony are better forgotten. The initial opposition to Meseko’s choice for the office of DNPS from his home state of Kogi and similar opposition to other nominees from states like Abia and Cross Rivers by the respective APC State caucuses; the powerplay, pandemonium and media hype, which beset the swearing in ceremony further attested the importance attached to membership of the APC NWC.

In his case, owing to his rich background as an influential former Member of the National Assembly and the plethora of roles he had played in the politics of his state and country, Duro Meseko’s image loomed large.

With the level of support he received in the media (his basic constituency), public opinion (based on antecedents), cross country networking and astounding goodwill combined with high level diplomacy on display, all tilted in his favor,

It was no myth that Meseko was able to surmount the opposition to his nomination. The subsequent warm embrace by the most visible opposition to his nomination , Governor Yahaya Bello, speaks volumes of Hon Meseko’s abilities to effectively deploy his goodwill when it matters.

Characteristically, Meseko quickly settled down to the job. He immediately assembled a team of capable aides who were assigned various roles to assist him in the effective performance of his official duty. The appointments which are 90 percent self-funded were equitably spread amongst the component units of Kogi State and beyond.

In the widely reported interview in major Nigerian national dailies on September 26, Meseko expressed concern over the surge of military coups in the West African region. He said the most benevolent military rule is no match to the worst civilian rule. He maintained that while most of the military interventions were as a result of bad leadership and sit-tight in the affected countries, forceful takeover of power is not a solution. Also in the interview, originally anchored by Eternal Reporter, Meseko appealed to Nigerians to trust in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to turn around the social and economic fortunes of  Nigeria, despite all odds.

“When you talk of visionary leadership, give it to him (Tinubu). A little over 100 days in office, see what he has done even his worst critics know that this man means business,” he said.

On October 2, Hon Duro Meseko was in the delegation of APC NWC that visited former President Muhammadu Buhari in his Daura, Katsina State home. The delegation led by the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje was in Daura formally to introduce the new leadership of the APC to the former President and to rejoice with him on the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary.

On October 6, Meseko appeared on Arise TV live programme. He was called upon to respond to questions regarding the press conference addressed by the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), former Vice-president Atiku Abubakar. Atiku, at the press conference had questioned the academic credentials of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which dismissed his petition, insisting he would proceed to the Supreme Court.

Meseko told a panel of moderators of Arise TV popular programme “Morning Show” that the tangling over the certificate of the President was mere politics, tantamount to searching for a needle in the haystack.

He said, “Our position in the APC is that all of this is just politics at its peak, because, pray, what will an otherwise very brilliant student in the person of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu be doing with a forged certificate? The South West College that he attended, he did so well there; you did so well in an examination and then you go ahead again to forge a certificate for doing so well! It doesn’t make sense. And he went ahead to the CSU to perform very brilliantly. What are we talking about? It is just commonsensical”.

Indeed, Meseko quoted the authorities at Chicago State University as referring to the diploma certificate as “just a ceremonial document” adding that “what mattered was the transcript issued by the institution to the students, and of course, he (Tinubu) had the transcript”.

If in doubt, he admonished the petitioners (Atiku and PDP), to proceed to supreme court and prove their case. “They have the right to ventilate their anger at the right places and the supreme court is one of them”.

On October 11, Hon Duro Meseko bagged “Philanthropist of the Year” award by the Exposure Newspaper.

The award coincided with the Annual Lecture and Awards Presentation of the newspaper held at Merit House, Abuja. According to the newspaper, the recognition was based on his unwavering commitment to service to the community and uplifting the needy.

On October 13, Hon Meseko received representatives of Bunu Students’ Union and Youth groups across Bunu Kingdom on a “Thank You Visit”, for his invaluable contributions to Youth development in Bunuland. The group described the former House of Representatives member as “a Godfather, mentor, reliable and dependable leader of repute, whose passion for youth development is unparalleled”

The visit was also to felicitate him on his appointment as DNPS of the APC.

In his remarks, Hon Meseko acknowledged the group’s gesture with appreciation and promised that the gesture would spur him not to relent on his efforts but to continue giving his best to support the Union, the Youths, and the entire Bunu community.

Hon Meseko’s commitment to the future well-being of Bunu, as expressed in his address, served as a promising outlook for the collaborative efforts between influential figures like him and the vibrant energy of the students’ union. This pledge of support further strengthens the bond between the elders and the younger generation, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility for the growth and prosperity of Bunuland.

On October 21, Hon Meseko paid homage to Rt Hon James Abiodun Faleke on his conferment of Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) by Federal University, Lokoja.

In a statement he signed, Meseko asserted that the recognition stands as a testament to the exceptional contributions of Faleke to society and his remarkable achievements over time.

Meseko posited that: “Your unwavering commitment to public service, leadership, and dedication to the betterment of your community, state and country has not gone unnoticed. This honor serves as a validation of your hard work, passion, and tireless efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of others. Your exemplary leadership qualities, integrity, and significant contributions to governance and public administration have inspired many. Your ability to bring people together, bridge divides, and address challenges with resilience and determination is commendable”.

On October 23, Hon Meseko received in audience APC National Woman Leader, Dr Mary Alile in her office to  welcome Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh to the Party.

On October 25, the Okun Young Professionals for Good Governance paid a courtesy visit to Hon Meseko in what the group described as an opportunity for the group to engage in meaningful interactions with him and to discuss matters related to good governance in Kogi State with a focus on Okunland.

The purpose of the courtesy visit, according to the Convener of the group, Mr. Aledare Tobi Daniel was to congratulate the APC Deputy National Publicity Scribe on his assumption of office, establish a positive rapport and foster a constructive relationship.

He alluded to the youth-friendly disposition of Hon Meseko over time as seen in the appointments of his aides. The visit also provided a platform for the group to express their concerns, suggestions, and ideas regarding issues of governance, particularly those that affect the Okun region.

In their addresses, Mr. Opeyemi Ajagun and Ms. Olorunmowaju Folorunsho touched on topics such as mentorship, youth empowerment, educational development, infrastructure, healthcare, job creation, and other essential aspects that contribute to good governance.

In his remarks, Hon Meseko thanked the group for the visit and promised to support them in actualizing their goals. He noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu is youth-centric, which is evident in the number of young persons who have been appointed as heads of various MDAs by the President.

On October 27, Hon Meseko rose to defend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over an allegation by the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Philip Abure, suggesting that President Tinubu may come after the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Reacting, Meseko told The Punch that there was no iota of truth in the claim. While describing the alarm as mischievous, Meseko said, “It is not true. Virtually everybody in Nigeria knows President Tinubu is not that kind of person. In fact, some of the people in Tinubu’s government today like the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, were among those insulting him and all that. Yet, he still brought them on board. That’s for you to know the kind of heart he has. It is therefore satanic and mischievous for the Labour Party and some other critics to still be nursing such thoughts about the President. As a statesman, the President has done his best over time to bring everybody. That is also reflected in his government of national unity. Even this so-called Labour Party was invited on board. But most of their people were busy criticizing him, saying he wanted to put their people in government so the party won’t pursue their case in court again and all that. I am saying this confidently that there is no iota of truth in what the LP chairman is saying.”

On October 29, following the demise of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, HRM Dr Ado Ibrahim, Hon Meseko condoled with the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello and the Ebira people on the passing of the Ohinoyi.

The statement he signed read: “Please accept my heartfelt condolences on this great loss to the people of Ebiraland and Kogi State. It is never easy to bid farewell to someone who held such an influential position and played a vital role in the lives of the people. Ohinoyi was a respected traditional ruler who dedicated his life to the betterment of Ebiraland and the welfare of his subjects. His wise guidance and leadership would surely be missed by all those who had the honor of knowing him. During this period of mourning and reflection, I want to extend my sympathies to Your Excellency and to the entire Anebira. May you find solace in the memories of the Ohinoyi and may his legacy continue to inspire and guide the people of Ebiraland. Please know that you and the people of Ebiraland are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I pray to the Almighty Allah to forgive the late Ohinoyi’s shortcomings and grant him Aljana firdaus. My deepest condolences once again”.

On October 31, Hon Meseko received Tinubu for Good Governance Movement. On November 16, Miss Indigenous Beauty Pageant was the Guest of Hon Meseko. He was presented with “Award of Recognition” during the visit. On November 17,  the DNPS was in the entourage of the APC National Chairman, Dr  Abdullahi Ganduje when the latter visited the governorship candidate of the APC in Kano State, Dr Nasir Yusuf Gawuna to celebrate his victory at the Appeal Court.

Three days later, November 20, Meseko announced two more appointments in Mrs. Olusanmi Temitope Elizabeth, Senior Special Assistant on Political Affairs and Mrs Safiyat Tanko Haruna, SSA on Women Affairs (Kogi East).

On November 21,  Hon Meseko received the Youth Wing of Arewa Consultative Forum. Next day, 22nd, Kabba Students Union delivered its message of appreciation to the DPNS.

The message contained in the letter signed by KSU President, Samuel Oluwabusayomi Felix, stated in parts: “I am writing to express our deepest gratitude for your generous and invaluable support in allocating 20 slots of the Federal Government Social Empowerment Programme to the students of Kabba Students’ Union. Your commitment to empowering our youth through such initiatives is truly commendable, and it reflects your unwavering dedication to the betterment of our community. By providing these opportunities, you are not only investing in the future of our students but also fostering a sense of hope and possibility.

Your leadership and advocacy for the welfare of our youth have not gone unnoticed, and we are fortunate to have a representative who prioritizes the well-being and development of our community.”

Same day, the APC NWC dissolved all the party’s Exco in Rivers State and appointed a Caretaker Committee headed by Chief Tony Okocha to take over the affairs of the party in the state. The APC National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka and Deputy, Hon Duro Meseko made this known at a press briefing in the Party’s Secretariat.

On December 7, Hon Meseko via a viral video message, endorsed the 2023 edition of the famous Obangogo Quest in Kabba, Kogi State, billed for December 27. He encouraged all and sundry, especially Okuns all over the world, in Nigeria and in Kogi State, to be part of the very unique annual mountaineering expedition. “Let me use this privileged opportunity to encourage all Okun people to take very seriously this precious gift that God has given to us in Okunland, the Obangogo Hills. Years in, years out, Obangogo Quest has come to become one of the best mountaineering expedition centres in the world. Obangogo is a natural wonder that you can’t afford to miss. It is the destination of the moment”, he said.

The endorsement of the upcoming Kabba expedition coincided with the visit by the leadership of National Association Of Okun Students (NAOS) who showered encomiums on Hon Meseko for his philanthropic activities in Okunland and Kogi State at large.

The NAOS President, Comrade Olamilekan Ajibade while congratulating Meseko on his appointment said the Union has also resolved to confer an award of ‘Patriotic Politician of Okunland” on the APC Deputy Spokesman during its annual December event slated to hold at Ogidi community in Ijumu LGA of Kogi State.

On Friday, December 15, Hon Meseko received the “Youth Development Impact Award” from the Tiv Youth Integrity Club.

He was eulogized by the group for not limiting his activities of impact to his own Constituency alone but to other States as well.

In the run up to the 2023 elections, Hon Meseko also served in the primary election committees that midwifed the conduct of governorship primaries of the APC in Lagos, Kaduna, Ogun, Kwara, Nasarawa, Kano, Kebbi, Zamfara, Delta and Cross River States.

James Abiodun Faleke: And The Long And Steady Walk To Destiny

At first, he was hit by the sudden death of Abubakar Audu, who was minutes away from a governorship victory. Again, he was poked by legal luminaries who described the situation as "lacuna," bringing the wonderful plans and ideas of the joint ticket to a halt as the decision of his political party regns supreme.

This, by divine providence, marked the beginning of an era that brought unprecedented pain to the inhabitants of the state. A direct opposite of the dreams Audu/Faleke had before marching to the polls in 2015.

In all these, the doggedness, resiliency, and, most importantly, the commitment of the master strategist to actualize the political dream of his political godfather beat my imagination. In an intriguing fashion, he demonstrated, in every sense, the art and mastery of political perfection across the six geopolitical zones of the federation.

He now controls, in large measure, the system that once denied him the highest political office in Kogi State, sitting comfortably in a pole position to determine and/or lobby for how power spheres in the state

James Abiodun Faleke, who was instrumental in Bola Ahmed Tinubu's victory at the polls a couple of months ago, now wields unimaginable power in the current politics of Nigeria. He will, by virtue of the paradigm shift, determine who becomes what in the next political dispensation, especially in Kogi State.

He didn't just arrive there; he endured pain and shame. He remained true to his subordinates as he refused to compromise his principles for a "quid pro quo. He now enjoys the reward for steadfastness and dedication, and there's a lesson to be learned.

I see no spark of skepticism in his leadership prowess. He will restructure, reconcile, and, most importantly, deodorize the system functions that appeared lopsided in previous years.

This will, by all standards, in any form or shape, mark the beginning of a new breath in kogi APC as James Abiodun Faleke stamps authority in kogi politics.

Samuel Mona Endurance

samuelendurance1999@gmail.com

Hon. Leke Abejide Paid Visit To The Bishop of Catholic Dioseces of Lokoja.

 

The African Democratic Congress ADC governorship candidate in Kogi State, Hon. Leke Abejide paid the Bishop of Lokoja Diocese the visit to familiarize with him and also express his intent of becoming the next governor of Kogi State come November, 2023.  

In the courtesy visit with Hon. Leke Abejide were, Barr. Shola Ojo, Dr. Bolu Femi, Dr Femi Klimsman and the State Chairman of ADC Mr. John Adaji. 

Abejide met with Most Revd.Martin Dada Abejide Olorunmolu, Catholic Bishop of Lokoja Diocese who he described as a man after God's own heart, who has dedicated his life to the service of God and mankind, and Chancellor  Fr. Okafor through a meeting conveyed by Catholic Social Forum  coordinator Mr Adeyemi Dare Michael.  

Abejide in his remarks acknowledged the good works of the Most Rev.Bishop of the Diocese and his commitment to the services of God. 

Fr. Okafor received Hon. Leke Abejide stating that even though this is the first time the Diocese is meeting with him, a lot have been heard and said about him, especially what he has been doing for the people of Yagba Federal Constituency and how he has contributed immensely to development, although I have to say this, Catholic Diocese is a Church of God that is not political, we embrace everyone as much as that you are an exceptional man and the Bishop is delighted to meet you. 

He describe Abejide as a leader whose vision is broad and whose hands are large enough to embrace everybody.

The Most Revd.Martin Dada Abejide Olorunmolu, said during the courtesy visit that most of the things being said of Hon. Abejide were all interesting things that a good Christian should poses and he is most delighted to meet him, importantly he heard of the WAEC payment and how he has promised to extend it to all the public secondary schools in Kogi State. 

The Most Reverend Bishop agreed with CFS Coordinator Mr. Adeyemi Dare Micheal, who  described the ADC governorship candidate as a "White Angel" that stands for Purity, sent by God to deliver and rescue the people of Kogi State. 

The Bishop stated that in Catholic Diocese the Church as always remain neutral when it comes to politics but  give avenue for politicians to come around. 

"It is our tradition to meet, interact, pray always that God will bring someone that will lead the good people of Kogi State to that prosperous promise land and to also express solidarity with ourselves and those who are ready to serve the interest of the masses. We are the voice of the people. Our voice is a prophetic voice. When we see where things are good, we say it exactly the way it is and where things are bad, we say it so also. 

"It is part of our prayer that God should give the state a governor that will serve in the interest of all in fairness irrespective of religion and ethnicity, a man that will be for all both Christians and Muslims including people who don't have believes, we know that God has raise your to deliver this generation". He said. 

Hon. Abejide, received prayers from the Most Revd. Bishop while Barr. Shola Ojo the Director of Campaign Leke/Omede for Governor 2023 in his remarks thanked the Most Revd. Bishop of the Diocese and Fr. Okafor for their warm welcome and for standing by the people of the state through thick and thin, stating that the Leke/Omede team are the ones God has sent and he desires the support of the Church and prayer for them to win and restructure Kogi State.

PRESIDENT TINUBU RECEIVES LEKE ABEJIDE, OKUN LEADERS AT STATE HOUSE.

…PROMISES TO LOOK INTO COMPLAINTS OF MARGINALISATION

President Tinubu on Thursday received Elder Leke Abejide, the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and leaders of Okun Development Association, the apex Socio-Political group of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District.

President Bola Tinubu has called on the people of Kogi West Senatorial District to maintain peace and unity ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial elections in the State.

Speaking at a meeting, Elder Leke Abejide with leaders of Okun Development Association, led by Professor Micheal Ikupolati, at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, the President assured Okun people of his commitment to look into their concerns regarding marginalization and the need for fair representation in governance of their state.

The statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) said the Okun People apex leadership expressed their unwavering support for the Tinubu administration and requested the President's backing for Kogi West Senatorial District to have an opportunity to produce the next Governor of the state.

They emphasized that this would be the first time the district will have a chance to produce the governor in 27 years since the state's creation in 1991.

Responding to their appeal, the President told the delegation:

‘‘Democracy is about horse trading, numbers, about conflicts and conflict resolution. I appreciate your leadership and your position. One of your sons, James Faleke, has worked very closely with me and I know about the issue when late Prince Audu was alive.

‘‘But that was the way of God Almighty. He passed on and the arrangement didn’t work and there was a judgement from the Supreme Court that was the last bus stop. That brought about the present government in the State, who is also a member of our party.’’

Regarding the issue of power rotation and constitutional provisions to guarantee equal rights for all Senatorial Districts, the President said he would thoroughly examine the matter of fair representation they brought to his attention.

He recalled the agreement on power rotation made by late Prince Abubakar Audu and other leaders but acknowledged that unforeseen events can impact such arrangements.

‘‘When you talk about domination, I’ll have to dig deeper on the issues. Yes, the question of rotation was agreed by Prince Audu and some other leaders but death didn’t allow him. God Almighty knows the reasons and we cannot question him,’’ he said.

President Tinubu assured the group that having listened carefully to all their concerns on issues surrounding the elections in November, ‘‘he would look into the issues very carefully to ensure fairness, justice and equity but democracy is still a game of number.’’

He charged them to extend love to one another, be patient and show solidarity to other members of the Senatorial districts in the State. 

Prof. Ikupolati had appealed to the President to intervene by directing security agencies to ensure a fair and peaceful election process during the elections scheduled for November 11, 2023.

Additionally, the group requested the enforcement of the use of Biometric Voter Authentication System (BVAS) in the upcoming election in Kogi State.

The Kogi West Senatorial District Leader of Thought highlighted that their appeal for power shift to the Kogi West Senatorial District is a reflection of the region's historical support for other districts in the past.

Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede Urges NAOS/NAKOSS FUL To Support Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide As Kogi State Governor Come November election

Unity Campaign Network For Leke/Omede under the leadership of Engr. Ashiru Oluwasegun has urged students of National Association of Okun Student (NAOS) and the Executive Members of National Association of Kogi State Student (NAKOSS) Federal University Lokoja (FUL) chapter to give their supports to Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide as governor of Kogi State come November 11, 2023 for his numerous physical development before and after his emergence as reps member representing Yagba federal constituency since 2019.

The representatives of the group made the appeal yesterday, Friday 14th, 2023 during their visit to the students at the Adankolo Campus of the school.

As part of their campaign activities, which involves direct interface and discussion with the students and voters across Kogi State  used the opportunity to reel out the physical intervention and projects of the governorship candidate of African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a reps member representing the good people of Yagba federal constituency

The group representatives highlighted some of the key projects started and completed by the Elder Leke Abejide in time past which includes payment of WAEC fees for Yagba students both in private & public school of the federal constituency which he has extended it to the public schools in Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu federal constituency and presently promising to extend it to every local government of the state, educational infrastructure, such as building of 300 capacity ICT center in Isanlu and other amenities within the state and beyond.

The group note that Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide has demonstrated his commitment to the constituents with his outstanding achievements that have helped the society to grow.

The group appeals to students to send a strong message that hard work and excellent performance matter by electing Leke/Omede as Kogi State governor and deputy governor respectively on November 11, 2023 so that Kogites can enjoy full dividends of democracy.

Speaking on behalf of  Okun students Comr. Ajayi Kolawole David says that he can attest to the good deeds of Elder Leke Abejide and his numerous positive impact for the student's, pledged allegiance and total support for the mandate of Leke/Omede.

Also speaking is the NAKOSS President, Comr. Alhasan Nuhu who harps on his hearing of the good work of Elder Leke Abejide in Kogi West, he assured the students that Abejide will extend such gestures to other part of the state if giving the mandate to govern the state, he appreciates the team for the visit and pray that God will grant their heart desires.

© Unity Campaign Network 4 Leke/Omede Media Unit

Better Kogi Initiative 4 Ododo visit Obaro, Seeks Royal Blessings, hints on Medical outreach

Ahead of the November 11 Governorship election in Kogi State, The Frontline Group Better Kogi Initiative for Ododo paid a visit to the Obaro of Kabba seek his Royal blessings and intimate him of the groups plan as the group commence its activities of going round the length and breath of Kabba, Okun and Kogi at large

At the palace the State Coordinator, Comr Tosin Tafu noted with emphasy that APC remain the party to follow now, pointing out that the establishment of Kogi State University, Kabba is more than enough reason to go with the APC, that those who think he will regret his association with APC has been disappointed as the university is more tangible than any other thing.

He said the group which comprises of prominent personalities with proven integrity and love for the community are out to support APC for the overall interest of the people, as the idea of Okun for Governor can be now or later and not now or never, stressing that he strongly believes that very soon it will be the turn of Okun land to be in Lugard house.

In his reaction, the Paramount ruler of Oweland, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman, Okun Area Traditional Council commended the group for a job well done, 

The Monarch commended the group for their foresight to assemble themselves in a manner that will preach the message of unity among Okun people, stressing that it is high time for the people of the zone irrespective of their class and location to unite for the purpose of the development of the area.

Signed;

Tosin Tafu

State Coordinator