PDP

By Usman Abdullahi Koli, ANIPR

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” This profound metaphor resonates deeply in the context of Bauchi State, where Governor Bala Mohammed’s dedication and visionary governance are sowing the seeds of transformation, elevating Bauchi into a beacon of progress. His re-election is not merely a continuation of policies but a renewed commitment to fostering hope, growth, and a brighter future for all.

Governor Bala Mohammed embodies humility, passion, and an unyielding commitment to public service. His journey from a distinguished Senator to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and now as Governor illustrates a leader devoted to selflessness and service. His transparency and community-centred governance ethos have left an indelible legacy that resonates across the state.

Born on the 5^th of October, 1958, Bala Mohammed began his educational journey at Duguri Primary School in Bauchi, where he graduated with a first leaving certificate. He attended Government School Bauchi from 1972 to 1976, obtaining his WAEC certification. After completing his advanced-level studies at the North East College of Art and Science in 1979, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maiduguri.

Bala began his civil service career as an administrative officer at the Federal Ministry of Internal Affairs, progressing to the Presidency as a Principal Administration Officer. His rapid ascent through the ranks—from Chief Supplies Officer at the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to Deputy Director at the Federal Ministry of Transport—culminated in his voluntary retirement to pursue a political career.

Under Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration, a remarkable passion for education has flourished. With an investment exceeding N13 billion in this sector, he recognises education as the cornerstone of a prosperous society. His administration has consistently supported students by covering WAEC, NECO, and UTME fees for thousands, ensuring that no student is denied educational opportunities due to financial constraints.

Beyond financial assistance, his administration has renovated over 100 schools, constructed more than 50 new institutions, and provided essential learning resources, fostering an environment conducive to quality education. Continuous investment in technical and tertiary institutions reflects a commitment to a holistic education that addresses the diverse needs of the state’s youth.

Under his stewardship, the health sector has also witnessed a remarkable transformation. His dedication is evident in the construction and renovation of over 204 primary healthcare centers and general hospitals across the state. Understanding that health is wealth, he tirelessly ensures that every citizen—especially those in rural areas—has access to quality healthcare services.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Bala swiftly responded by distributing over 85,000 face masks and implementing stringent health measures, saving countless lives. His collaborations with development partners have successfully eradicated polio, and his ongoing efforts to combat diphtheria and other infectious diseases have earned him accolades locally and internationally. Recently, he approved the upgrade of the Misau General Hospital to Federal Medical Centre status, fully equipping secondary healthcare centres across various local government areas.

A hallmark of Bala Mohammed’s leadership is his proactive approach to security and crisis management. He has significantly enhanced their operational capabilities by equipping military and paramilitary agencies with over 50 vehicles. His decisive actions during crises and efforts in conflict mediation demonstrate his commitment to peace-building.

Bala’s respect for traditional institutions and support for religious and community leaders foster a harmonious atmosphere in Bauchi, positioning it as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. His governance style is rooted in inclusivity, ensuring every group has a voice and representation in decision-making.

Governor Bala’s administration has revitalised Bauchi’s agricultural sector. Over 8,000 metric tons of fertiliser have been produced, and 1,000 farmers have been trained in modern agricultural techniques. The state has also been positioned as a food production hub. Distributing fertiliser to over 10,000 farmers has significantly increased yields, enabling irrigation farmers to export their produce beyond state borders.

Perhaps the most visible legacy of Bala Mohammed lies in infrastructure development. His administration has constructed over 300 kilometres of roads, including significant projects such as Duguri to Yashi (68.4 km) linking Tafawa Balewa and Alkaleri LGAs, Itas to Gadau (24.5 km), Udubo to Gamawa (25 km), Sade township road (2.8 km), Dualization of major roads, including the Kano road (22 km), Maiduguri road (14 km), and Jos road (12 km).

Additionally, the construction of flyovers in Bauchi, particularly at Wunti and the Central Market, underscores his commitment to enhancing infrastructure and urban development. Thanks to the governor’s relentless focus on urban and rural development, this transformation is so profound that visitors may require a guide to navigate the city.

As an indigene of Ningi LGA, I can personally attest to the life-changing impact of the new road network in my hometown of Nasaru. The network has opened up economic opportunities, improved access to markets, and reduced travel times for residents. This is a testament to how Governor Bala’s leadership enhances people’s lives.

Under the auspices of the Kaura Economic Empowerment program, Bala Mohammed’s administration has launched the most successful and sustainable empowerment initiatives in Bauchi State’s history. 

Key accomplishments include the distribution of 156 commercial buses across the 20 LGAs, the distribution of 1,500 tricycles to support local entrepreneurs, the implementation of a micro-grant scheme providing N10,000 each to petty traders, with a total funding of N200 million, the launch of the N75 million KEEP initiatives per LGA for youth and women empowerment and allocation of N500 million for soft loans to traders and artisans.

As Governor Bala Mohammed marks his 66th birthday, we celebrate him as a leader, father, mentor, and patriot. His life exemplifies the power of perseverance, vision, and service. The people of Bauchi and Nigeria are fortunate to have a leader who addresses today’s challenges and is dedicated to creating a future that benefits future generations.

Recognised for his remarkable achievements in Bauchi, Bala has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Federal Government Award of Excellence and the esteemed title of CON. His traditional titles, such as Kauran Bauchi, Turakin Ningi, and Wazirin Dass, reflect the respect and admiration he commands across diverse communities.

As we look ahead to the next three years of Bala Mohammed’s administration, one thing is clear: Bauchi is on a path to greatness. His leadership has established a solid foundation for growth, and his vision will continue to propel the state to new heights. The people of Bauchi have once again placed their trust in him, and he has repeatedly proven that he is worthy of that trust.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s journey is far from over. His determined dedication to the people of Bauchi, his passion for development, and his commitment to good governance will continue to inspire us all. As we celebrate his achievements, let us also look forward to the brighter future he is building for us all.

Happy 66th birthday, Your Excellency. May your days be long, and may your leadership continue to shine as a flare of hope and progress for all.

Usman Abdullahi Koli wrote via mernoukoli@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

A Federal High Court in Kano has disqualified Prof. Sani Lawan Malumfashi as Chairman of the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC) due to his affiliation with a political party. 

Justice Simon Amobeda delivered the ruling following a suit filed by Aminu Aliyu Tiga and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The court also disqualified five other members of KANSIEC—Anas Muhammad Mustapha, Mukhtar Garba Dandago, Isyaku Ibrahim Kunya, Kabir Jibril Zakirai, and Amina Inuwa Fagge—on similar grounds. 

According to the court, they are active members of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), making them unqualified for their roles under the Nigerian Constitution and the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission Law.

Justice Amobeda further ordered that KANSIEC must cease all activities related to the upcoming 2024 Local Government Election in Kano State until a properly constituted commission is appointed in accordance with the law. 

This includes halting the issuance of election guidelines, candidate screenings, and the sale of nomination forms, all of which were declared null and void.

Additionally, the court directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withhold all electoral materials, including the voter register, from KANSIEC until the commission is legally restructured.

The ruling emphasizes that any actions taken by KANSIEC in preparation for the 2024 Local Government Election are invalid unless qualified individuals are appointed to the commission.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri recently stated that his successor must be a grassroots politician. So, to all grassroots politicians, are you prepared?

Whether or not you agree with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, it’s impossible to ignore that he delivered an impressive performance in just five years. His leadership style, marked by decisiveness and a strategic approach, has left a lasting impact on Adamawa State. 

Three key factors contributed to his success: first, he profoundly understands local politics at the grassroots level. This knowledge allowed him to manage diverse interests, bringing various stakeholders together while effectively navigating the political landscape. He knows how to utilise power not just to control but to drive progress and development as well as the political power itself.

Second, Fintiri is known for making bold decisions without hesitation, which sets him apart from many political leaders who are often bogged down by fear or indecision. Whether in policy formulation or tackling complex issues, he has consistently courageously taken risks where necessary. However, boldness doesn’t equate to rashness. Fintiri rarely rushes critical decisions, opting instead for careful deliberation. He balances this decisiveness with a thoughtful approach, ensuring resources are allocated judiciously across various sectors, leading to sustainable development and equitable growth.

Finally, while he can be measured and calculated in his decision-making, Fintiri is also forthright. He doesn’t shy away from expressing his views openly, making him a leader who is both pragmatic and honest. This combination of boldness, caution, and openness has earned him recognition on a national level, bringing Adamawa into greater prominence. Recently, Fintiri expressed his political views in Rivers State but remained balanced as a leader. That is how a true leader speaks.

For Fintiri’s successor, the road ahead will be marked by both challenge and opportunity—a situation that could be described as sweet-bitter. The primary challenge will be following in the footsteps of a highly successful leader. Succeeding a high performer often comes with the burden of high expectations. The new leader will be required to exceed Governor Fintiri’s accomplishments, as merely matching them or falling short would likely be a failure. This catch-22 is often the hardest part of leadership transitions—especially when the predecessor has set a high bar.

On the flip side, there is a significant advantage. Fintiri has laid a strong foundation, which includes efficient tools, systems, and a skilled human resource base. Gov. Fintiri’s successor will have the opportunity to build on these assets, improving where needed while inheriting a well-established structure. With the right approach, he or she can take Adamawa to even greater heights.

Fintiri’s understanding of politics in Adamawa has been straightforward—he sees it as the art of balancing interests driven by fairness and people’s rights. His ability to manage conflicting interests while making decisive moves has been crucial to his success. Bold yet measured, he has used resources to create visible impacts, from infrastructural developments to social programs, all of which have put Adamawa in the national spotlight. His performance will give his successor powerful momentum on which to capitalise. However, whoever succeeds Governor Fintiri must recognise the weight of expectation that comes with succeeding a well-regarded and high-performing predecessor. It will require vision and strategy to maintain the trajectory and deliver even greater results.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken a dramatic turn, with the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) factionalised over issues in Rivers State and the conflict between Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed. 

Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has faced mounting criticism and calls for resignation since taking over after Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s court-ordered removal.

The crisis escalated when Damagum and other NWC members, supporting Wike, approved controversial PDP Congresses in Rivers State and postponed the National Executive Committee meeting. 

The lingering conflict between Wike and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, intensified on August 24, with PDP governors publicly backing Fubara and urging a review of the state congresses.

Wike responded by threatening to disrupt activities in the governors’ states, but the PDP Governors’ Forum labeled his threats “irresponsible”. 

In a surprising move, the NWC suspended National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), citing opposition to Damagum’s efforts to hand over control to Wike.

However, Ologunagba’s faction of the NWC swiftly suspended Damagum and National Secretary, Sen. Samuel Anyanwu, for alleged disloyalty, appointing National Treasurer Yayari Ahmed Mohammed as acting National Chairman. 

The situation remains fluid, with the PDP’s future hanging in the balance.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State, Isa Rabiu, has asked former governor Nasir El-Rufai to be patient and allow a proper investigation to be conducted into his eight years administration in the state.

The PDP chieftain was reacting to El-Rufai’s claim that he did not steal public money during his time as Kaduna governor.El-Rufai had said he is ready to swear with the Holy Quran to prove his innocence.

Reacting to El-Rufai’s assertion, Rabiu said, “Former governor El-Rufai should wait patiently for the final investigation before uttering anything against his predecessors or swearing with the Quran on what transpired during the eight years of his administration in Kaduna State.”

Rabiu observed that the same El-Rufai ‘arranged’ a petition against former governor of Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, following which the Makarfi administration was investigated.

He added, “To be honest, from all indications, El-Rufai lacks discipline, self control and focus to do the right thing than swearing with holy Quran. The same El-Rufai ran away to a foreign country during the regime of late President Yar’Adua and only came back when the President died in 2010 and started making unnecessary utterances against the late President Yar’Adua.”

He called on the Kaduna State government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and related offences Commission, ICPC, to investigate the former governor with a view to recovering what was stolen from the state during his tenure.

By Uzair Adam

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has withheld its signature from the peace accord for the upcoming Edo State Governorship election, scheduled for September 21.

This was revealed by former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar during the peace accord signing ceremony in Benin on Thursday.

Abubakar explained that the PDP’s participation is contingent on certain conditions being met before they will sign the agreement.

“I met with the governor yesterday, and he informed me that the PDP will not be signing the peace accord,” Abubakar said.

“The party has made some observations and set conditions. After these are addressed, they will go to Abuja to sign.”

The PDP’s state chairman was absent at the event and did not elaborate on the party’s reasons.

However, Governor Godwin Obaseki had previously hinted at the possibility of his party opting out of the accord during a meeting with the National Peace Committee.

Despite the PDP’s absence, candidates from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party (LP), including APC’s Monday Okpebholo and LP’s Olumide Akpata, signed the agreement.

By Uzair Adam

Nigeria’s main opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government to immediately review its policies, which they claim are “asphyxiating life in the country.”

The Daily Reality reports that the PDP made this call in response to a nationwide protest against the government’s handling of the economy.

The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, stated that the government’s policies have led to a severe economic downturn, characterized by high inflation, unemployment, and poverty rates.

He criticized the government’s decision to increase fuel prices and float the currency without implementing measures to cushion the effects on citizens.

Ologunagba alleged that the APC government has been arrogant and insensitive to the plight of Nigerians, who are struggling to afford basic necessities like food and cooking oil.

He claimed that over 120 million Nigerians have become destitute and can no longer afford their daily meals and other basic necessities of life, with poverty rates soaring to over 40%.

The PDP accused the APC government of being responsible for the crippling of the productive sector, with the crashing of the Naira to over N1,500 to a Dollar, fuel soaring to over N1,000 per liter, and a high cost of goods and services with over 34% inflation rate and over 40% unemployment rate.

Ologunagba also alleged that APC officials are looting the national treasury to fund their luxurious lifestyles, including acquiring luxury jets, expensive holidays abroad, renovating official residential mansions, and other profligacies, without regard to the feelings and pains of the majority of Nigerians.

Furthermore, the PDP claimed that the APC administration is secretly paying a whopping N5.4 trillion as fuel subsidy for 2024, even after President Tinubu announced an end to fuel subsidy.

The PDP called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to personally address the nation, announce major policy reviews, and order an investigation into the alleged looting of subsidy and palliative funds.

They also urged the President to review all luxury items and purchases in the APC government and channel the resources for immediate intervention in the provision of food and other essential commodities to Nigerians.

The PDP called on Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding in their pursuit of good governance in the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Olabode George, has appealed to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, asking him to reconsider his 2027 presidential ambition in favour of younger Nigerian leaders. 

Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Chief George expressed concerns about Atiku’s age, emphasising that, at 81 years old in 2027, he may be too old to effectively govern the nation.

He suggested that Atiku should adopt a mentoring role, acting as a guiding figure for the younger generation, rather than pursuing another presidential bid. 

“My brother Atiku Abubakar was 77 years old last year, and by 2027 he will be 81 years old. Atiku should give room for younger Nigerians, who still have the energy and the brain to develop the country,” George stated during the interview. 

He further stated the importance of consistent adherence to party norms, suggesting that the PDP should prioritize mentorship and continuity.

Chief George concluded by stating that the presidency must remain in the South in 2027, following the completion of the North’s eight years in power. 

The appeal from the PDP ex-leader brings attention to the ongoing discussions within the PDP about generational leadership and the party’s direction in the upcoming presidential elections.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Sixteen ex-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers in Plateau State, ousted by the Court of Appeal in November 2023, plan to defy the court ruling and return to legislative duties.

Despite having their election nullified over party structure issues, they argue that the recent Supreme Court judgement, validating Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s election, supports their claim as authentic members. 

Led by Ishaku Maren, the former majority leader, they stress their commitment to democracy and assert their constituents’ unwavering support.

The lawmakers are set to resume today, raising concerns from the APC and warning against potential legislative and security implications in Plateau State.

This is coming as observers await developments and reactions to this audacious move by the former lawmakers.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the failure of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government to pay federal workers’ salaries in December. 

The party claims that this further proves that the administration is intent on frustrating and harming Nigerians. 

Hon. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, issued a statement on the matter in Abuja on Saturday. 

The Party describes the failure to “discharge such sensitive obligation to workers, especially at this yuletide period as unacceptable and further shows the level of insensitivity of the Tinubu-led APC administration towards the welfare of Nigerians.” 

Ologunagba said, “By this action, the Tinubu administration has practically turned our nation into a huge Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp with millions of Nigerians becoming beggars and observing the period in hunger, anguish and misery. 

“It is obvious that the non-payment of the December salary critically needed by the workers including our gallant security operatives at this period is consistent with the atrocious character of APC administration to weaponize poverty and further suppress Nigerians to surrender to totalitarianism. 

“Is it not provocative that while President Tinubu is busy partying and luxuriating with APC leaders, workers who are putting in their time and energy in the service of the nation are left with nothing to feed and celebrate with their families and loved ones? 

“Sadly, President Tinubu would rather approve the frittering of our nation’s scarce resources to sponsor cronies, political minions, hangers-on and their mistresses to expensive foreign trips while making no provision for the salary of genuine government workers. 

“Such heartless act by the anti-people APC administration never happened in the 16 years of the PDP in government as workers then promptly received their December salary before Christmas day (25th) to enable them to celebrate yuletide and end of year festivities with their loved ones. 

“More distressing is that the Tinubu Presidency can afford to withhold salaries even after approving the unbearable increase in the pump price of fuel to over N700 per litre, with the attendant high cost of food, transportation, medication and other necessities of life. 

“It is instructive to remind Nigerians that the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) had earlier this month announced that it shared a total of N1.783 trillion to Federal, State and Local Governments for December 2023, yet workers have not been paid because no cash backing was effected by the Tinubu administration despite huge resources accruable to it. We ask, where is the money? 

“Our Party is appalled by the level of profligacy apparent in the APC administration whose actions and policies are skewed towards the promotion and institutionalization of corruption, deprivation and suppression of Nigerians. 

“Nigerians will recall that earlier in August, the PDP alerted that our nation’s economy was asphyxiating and grinding to a halt under the increasingly corrupt APC and President Tinubu’s crippling economic policies with a consequential negative toll on productivity.” 

He further stated, “The failure to pay December salary of workers further confirms that the Tinubu-led APC administration has practically run our nation’s economy aground with its corruption, recklessness and ill-informed counter-productive policies. 

“The PDP demands that President Tinubu immediately account for the trillions of naira accruable from the removal of subsidy on petroleum products in the last seven months. 

“Furthermore, the President is requested to come clean on the December 2023 distributable Statutory Revenue of N376.306 billion, distributable Value Added Tax (VAT) Revenue of N335.656 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy Revenue of N11.952 billion and Exchange Difference Revenue of N364.869 billion as contained in the communique issued by FAAC at its December 2023 meeting. 

“The PDP demands the immediate payment of the December salary of workers and additional compensatory payment of at least 50% of the salary of workers to cushion the effect of the economic hardship foisted on them by the APC administration. 

“President Tinubu must understand that Nigeria is a Federation that must only be governed by the Constitution and the Rule of Law and not by the whims and caprices of an individual or group.”