UNTYING THE TIE IN ENONE: THE 2027

UNTYING THE TIE IN ENONE: THE 2027 ADO, OKPOKWU, OGBADIBO FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY RACE 

An Op-Ed

By: Jacup Ochulayi 

The race for Ado Okpokwu Ogbadibo Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general election is gradually taking shape, and, for the purpose of this analysis, three strong candidates initially took centre stage and appeared to be in a political tie.

I use the expression “strong candidates” not necessarily to suggest that they are more competent than every other contender, but to acknowledge their existing political advantages, visibility, experience, structures and capacity to mount a serious campaign.

In the language of Afrobeats and hip pop, these three could jokingly be described as the “old cats” of the contest not because of age, but because they have previously been tested in political contests.

1. Hon. Andrew Agom and the ruling party advantage, the APC candidate, enters the race as a serving member of the Benue State House of Assembly and the candidate associated with the Governor’s preferred political direction for the ticket and the eventual ticket holder

Ordinarily, these factors should give him access to considerable political resources, networks and an established structure with which to approach a federal constituency election.

His advantage lies significantly in the institutional and political machinery available to a candidate of the ruling party, however, not in all instances does that advantage work seamlessly.

2. Hon. Philip Agbese and the expected Incumbency advantage, as the incumbent representative of the constituency and is seeking a second term.

Some may argue that an incumbent deserves another term, but ultimately, that question belongs to the electorate and the court of public opinion to adjudge through the ballots.

As the sitting member of the House of Representatives, Agbese is expected to have developed political structures, relationships and resources capable of supporting a re-election campaign

Perhaps one of his most notable political attributes has been his ability to navigate the difficult political terrain that emanated from the long standing political battles within the Benue APC, where he charted his own political course and played a significant role in repositioning the Labour Party in Benue State as a vehicle for his 2027 ambition and not losing out on being on the ballot 

3. Hon. Aida Ogwuche, is young experienced, and Resilient, she brings a different dimension to the contest. Her being a young woman is not a disadvantage, rather, it can be an important political asset in a constituency increasingly interested in generational change and broader representation in governance.

Aida is returning to the race after a fiercely contested 2023 battle for the PDP ticket with the then incumbent, a contest that eventually travelled through the courts to the Supreme Court.

Four years later, she returns with the benefit of experience, lessons learned, renewed energy, expanded networks and, presumably, a stronger political structure.

These qualities place her among the candidates who cannot be taken lightly.

THEN CAME THE NEW CHALLENGERS

If the contest had remained between these three, one could reasonably describe the race as a political tie needing a new entrant vote, if it were a parliament or council.

But the equation has changed as two significant new entrants enter the race, Engr. Steven Adoyi of the ADC and Pharm. David Onoja the NDC candidate

Both are young, energetic, politically ambitious and, importantly, appear capable of financing and sustaining a federal constituency onstituency campaign that can lead to victory

Their emergence and party consolidation has therefore introduced a new variable into what many had initially perceived as a three-horse race between the in quote three strong candidates 

ENGR. STEVEN ADOYI a new variable in the political equation has approached the contest with an emphasis on engagement, networking, political mobilisation and the effrontery to win an election 

Since emerging as a contender, he has moved to establish relationships with stakeholders, political actors and ordinary people across Enone.

His emergence as the candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), one of the major opposition political platforms in the evolving 2027 political landscape, adds another dimension to his candidacy.

The strength of his candidacy will ultimately depend not merely on the party label, but on how effectively he can translate party structures, stakeholder relationships, grassroots mobilisation and personal political capital into votes.

That is where the “tie” begins to unravel.

If the three established contenders possess advantages arising from incumbency, ruling party machinery or previous electoral experience, the newer candidates have an opportunity to exploit the gaps created by those same advantages if critically identified

Politics, after all, is rarely determined by pedigree alone, It is determined by strategy, mobilisation, credibility, voter connection and performance at the ballot box.

HON. PHARM. DAVID ONOJA, Another new dimension to the race, a swift mover, David is another young and energetic contender who has entered the race with considerable political ambition and personal resources.

In the course of the contest for the ticket, David Onoja moved into the NDC from ADC and emerged as the party's candidate.

For David, the challenge will be converting his personal political appeal, charisma and the broader appeal of his political platform into a functioning grassroots structure capable of delivering votes across wards and polling units.

In the coming race, personal political identity, candidature and wider coverage and reach with the people will become as important as ever.

SO, WHO BREAKS THE TIE?

This is the central question for Ado Okpokwu Ogbadibo electorates as the contest may no longer be adequately described as a simple three way race.

The emergence of Steven Adoyi and David Onoja has complicated the political arithmetic and created new possibilities for victory

The established contenders have experience, visibility, existing structures and, in some cases, institutional advantages.

The new entrants bring youth, fresh energy, ambition, resources and the opportunity to present themselves as alternatives to the established political order.

Ultimately, Enone will decide and victory will be determined by who can build the strongest connection with the electorate, organise effectively at the grassroots, communicate a convincing vision and persuade voters that their candidacy represents the best path forward for Ado Okpokwu Ogbadibo Federal constituency of Benue State 

Other political parties, including the NNPP, SDP, NDP and others, also have candidates in the race. This opinion piece, however, focuses on the five contenders discussed above and the changing political dynamics surrounding their candidacies. 

See you in the next episode!

Jacup Ochulayi

Multimedia Strategist,

Political Commentator,

Editor-in-chief for Info Times,

Freelance journalist, 

Writes from the FCT - Abuja 

Hon. Daniel Amos Condoles with Families of Victims of Gidan Waya Attack in Kaduna State

The Member representing Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency, Hon. Daniel Amos, on Thursday undertook a condolence visit to families affected by the tragic attack on the Hunters Vigilante Group office in Gidan Waya, which claimed the lives of four vigilantes and a student.

During the visit, Hon. Amos met with bereaved families,  engaged youths and community stakeholders across Tudun Wada Kaninkon, Gidan Waya, Godogodo, and Nindem. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a grievous loss not only to the immediate families but to the entire constituency, particularly in light of the role the vigilantes played in safeguarding their communities.

The lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and offered prayers for the repose of their souls. He acknowledged the courage and sacrifice of the fallen vigilantes, noting that their commitment to community safety would not be forgotten.

Addressing community leaders and youths, Hon. Amos called for enhanced collaboration in strengthening local security architecture. He urged the organization of structured community watch groups to complement government efforts in protecting lives and property.

He, however, cautioned against any form of self-help or extrajudicial actions, stressing the dangers inherent in taking laws into one’s hands. He advised residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and supportive of security agencies, while assuring them that necessary steps are being taken to apprehend those responsible for the attack

   Hon. Amos reaffirmed his commitment to the safety and well-being of his constituents and pledged continued engagement with relevant authorities to ensure that peace and stability are restored and sustained across the affected communities.

MY MANIFESTO! EKOKOWOICHO 2027:

  IT IS GOD’S TIME FOR ENONE

A Manifesto for the People of Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency

Presented by: 

Hon. Pharm. David Onoja (Ekokowoicho)

To the good people of Enone,

The name Ekokowoicho is not just a name; it is a divine decree. It means "God’s Time." For too long, our constituency Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo has waited in the shadows of under-representation. We have watched our roads crumble, our youth wander without direction, and our parents suffer in silence from preventable ailments.

But the season of neglect is over. It is God’s time for a representative who doesn't just speak, but heals. As a Pharmacist, I don't just see voters; I see a people in need of a prescription for progress.

1. THE OWUKPA REVELATION: OUR 30-DAY MEGA OUTREACH

Our mission began not with a speech, but with a stethoscope and a blood pressure cuff. During our recent clinical outreaches in the Owukpa region, we uncovered a heartbreaking reality: over 70% of our adults are hypertensive.

This "silent killer" is a direct result of years of stress, lack of clean water, and zero access to quality healthcare. Because we cannot wait for the election to save lives, we are launching a 36-Ward Mega Outreach across the entire Enone constituency.

• The Prescription: We are bringing free screenings, cardiovascular consultations, and essential medications to every single ward. We are treating the people now, because "God’s Time" for healing is today.

2. HEALING OUR HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

A constituency that is sick cannot be productive.

• From Outreaches to Institutions: I will push for the total rehabilitation of our Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs). I will ensure they are staffed with qualified personnel and stocked with genuine medications, moving us away from "Consulting Clinics" to "Healing Centers."

• National Health Insurance: I will advocate for a special rural health subsidy to ensure the poor in Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo can access surgery and emergency care without selling their ancestral lands.

3. ROADS: THE ARTERIES OF OUR ECONOMY

Our roads are death traps and barriers to wealth. Whether it is the federal routes connecting our borders or the rural roads linking our farms:

• The Enone Link Project: I will be a "troubleshooter" in the National Assembly, relentlessly lobbying the Federal Ministry of Works and FERMA to fix the collapsed portions of our roads.

• Economic Access: Good roads mean our Owukpa coal, our Ado yams, and our Ogbadibo palm oil reach the markets at the right price.

4. HUMAN CAPITAL: EMPOWERING THE ENONE MIND

Representation is about building people, not just bridges.

• The Ekokowoicho Skills Initiative: We will establish vocational hubs focusing on ICT, mechanized agriculture, and pharmacy technician training for our youth.

• Education: I will institute a transparent bursary scheme for our students in tertiary institutions to ensure no Enone child drops out of school due to lack of fees.

5. EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION: A VOICE THAT ROARS

We have been silent for too long. Under-representation ends now. I will be a visible, vocal, and vibrant member of the House of Representatives. I will not be a "bench-warmer." Your pains will be my motions; your yearnings will be my bills.

Conclusion

The 70% hypertension rate we found in Owukpa is a sign of a constituency under pressure. I, Pharm. David Onoja, am here to relieve that pressure. My name is my promise: Ekokowoicho.

God’s time for Ado has come.

God’s time for Okpokwu is here.

God’s time for Ogbadibo is now.

VOTE HON. PHARM. DAVID ONOJA (EKOKOWOICHO)

Healing the People, Building the Land.

ONE MAN’S DEATH CHANGED EVERYTHING!

By Abu Shadrach

There are moments in history that shook nations, changed generations, and rewrote the future of mankind. But among them all, one death stands above every other death ever recorded,a death that did not end a life alone, but gave life to the whole world.

It was the death of one man who carried the pain of many.

One man who was rejected so others could be accepted.

One man who was wounded so humanity could be healed.

One man whose silence in suffering became the loudest message of love ever heard.

That death changed everything.

Before that moment, humanity lived in fear, guilt, and separation. Hope was distant, peace was uncertain, and the burden of sin weighed heavily on the hearts of men. But when that one man gave up his life, the veil of darkness was torn apart, and mercy found its way to mankind.

His death was not ordinary.

It was sacrifice.

It was love in its purest form.

It was redemption wrapped in pain.

He died so the broken could be restored.

He died so the weak could find strength.

He died so the forgotten could discover purpose.

He died so those who had lost their way could find light again.

What makes this death different is that it still speaks today.

It speaks to the widow crying in silence.

It speaks to the young man battling fear and uncertainty.

It speaks to the family holding onto faith in difficult times.

It speaks to the nation praying for healing and restoration.

His death reminds us that even in the darkest hour, hope can still rise.

The story did not end at the grave. What looked like defeat became the greatest victory ever known. What seemed like the end became the beginning of grace, salvation, and a new covenant for all who believe.

Today, the world still stands on the message of that sacrifice:

that love is stronger than hate,

that light is greater than darkness,

and that one life surrendered for others can transform eternity.

Indeed, one man’s death changed everything forever.

Sen. Al-Makura Donates 6 Storey Secretariat Edifice to Renewed Hope Ambassadors

By: Abu Shadrach

The North Central Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, has donated a magnificent six-storey edifice to serve as the national secretariat of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.

The imposing structure, strategically located in the heart of Jabi, Abuja, is expected to function as the administrative and coordination headquarters of the movement, further strengthening its nationwide operations and grassroots mobilization framework.

Receiving the building on behalf of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors was the Governor of Imo State and National Coordinator of the movement, Hope Uzodimma, who expressed deep appreciation to Senator Al-Makura for what he described as a visionary and selfless contribution to the consolidation of the Renewed Hope agenda.

Governor Uzodimma noted that the six-storey facility would significantly enhance strategic planning, zonal coordination, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication across the six geopolitical zones. He commended Senator Al-Makura’s steadfast commitment to strengthening the institutional capacity of the movement.

Dignitaries present at the formal presentation included former Senate President and South-East Coordinator, Anyim Pius Anyim; former Speaker House of Representatives and former Governor of Katsina State and North-West Coordinator, Aminu Bello Masari; former Governor of Bauchi State and North-East Coordinator, Isa Yuguda; former Senator and South-West Coordinator, Adedayo Adeyeye; and Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications.

The event reflected a strong show of unity among leaders across regions, reinforcing their shared resolve to deepen the Renewed Hope message and ensure effective mobilization at the grassroots. Stakeholders described the donation as a landmark milestone that would provide a solid institutional foundation for the continued growth and coordination of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors nationwide.

AL-MAKURA JOINS THOUSANDS AT RENEWED HOPE MEGA SOLIDARITY RALLY IN LAFIA

By: Abu Shadrach 

Former Governor of Nasarawa State and North Central Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, earlier today participated in the Renewed Hope Mega Solidarity Rally held at Lafia Square, where thousands of supporters gathered and expressed their appreciation for the leadership and reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The rally, which attracted key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), political leaders, grassroots mobilizers, and supporters from across the state, was organised as a show of gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, for the ongoing national and state-level reforms, including economic restructuring, infrastructure development, and social intervention programmes which bears impact on citizens of the country. Over 15,000 participants were expected to attend the event.  

As North Central Zonal Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Al-Makura reaffirmed his commitment to deepening grassroots engagement and advancing the Renewed Hope vision across the region through sustained mobilisation and collaboration with stakeholders. 

He also commended the Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdulahi Sule for his steadfastness in advancing the fortunes of the party in the state. He equally commended the State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Barr. Labaran Shuaibu Magaji, for his leadership, dedication, and efforts in mobilising grassroots support and ensuring the successful organisation of the rally.

During the event, party leaders, in their separate remarks, highlighted the administration’s policy direction, particularly economic reforms, increased revenue allocation to states, and infrastructure projects executed within Nasarawa State. The programme also featured the inauguration of Local Government Coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation and engagement across communities.  

Furthermore, the occasion witnessed the formal reception of new members and defectors into the All Progressive Congress (APC); reinforcing efforts toward party unity and expansion ahead of future political activities. 

 

Notable dignitaries expected or represented included national and party stakeholders, as well as prominent political figures aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

2023: GROUP WANTS WIKE TO CAUTION JANG OVER PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

 

2023: Group wants Wike to caution Jang over presidential candidate 

A group, the Plateau Integrity Group has written the leader of the G-5 Governors, Nyesom Wike, in the PDP to caution former governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang for supporting Atiku Abubakar rather than wait for the decision of the group on who to support for the presidency.

The group in a letter to the Rivers State governor said the former Plateau State governor could be playing double game if allowed.

The letter reads: 

"We crave your  understanding to communicate to you in this manner hoping you'll agree with us that it is imperative due to the urgency required in drawing your attention to a brazen case of betrayal in your fold by a former governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah Jang.

"Sir, permit us to first of all, appreciate your commitment and sacrifice to nation building through your efforts at ensuring that Nigeria deserves a better deal through equity and justice in the allocation of political offices.

"Rest assured that you have won the admiration of many with your great courage and fearlessness as encapsulated in your 'pepper them' stance which upholds saying the truth at all times no matter whose ox is gored and this you have amply demonstrated by your insistence that political positions must not only be rotated among the various divides in the country but must at any given time, reflect federal character.

"Your Excellency, as you strive to purify our  democracy of prebendalism and to ensure that the right things are done which led to your disagreement with the PDP heirachy and consequently the formation of the Integrity Group also known as G-5, there are some within your camp whose commitment to this just cause are in doubt as they are playing double game with you by pretending they are with you while trying to throw away all the efforts you're making in this regard.

"Foremost in this category is the former governor of Plateau State, Senator Jonah Jang who pretends to be with you in daytime but fights you at night with his selfish and unfortunate agenda 

"Your Excellency, the former governor has managed to pretend that he is with you in the cause to restore justice and equity to the PDP when he travels out of Plateau State but does a different thing when he is in the state.

"Permit us to bring to your notice a recent happening in Plateau State that exposes this Janus-face tendency and the betrayal of the worthy cause you have chosen in your quest to see Nigeria grow in unity and cohesion.

"Your colleague, Gov Simon Lalong of Plateau State who like you, stands for truth and justice, had at a campaign rally in Wase LG of the state, had cause to draw the attention of the people to the principle you are fighting for and made reference to you and all the G-5 governors are doing to ensure power shifts from the North to the South.

"But to the shock of many, Jang took umbrage at this popular acclamation and in a gasping epiphany, revealed that he is not in support of that acclamation and that he is in bed with the same forces you are up against.

"Subsequently and in total betrayal of your celebrated stand on national cohesion and integration, Jang issued a statement countering Lalong, telling the world point blankly that he is not with you in your bid to restore equity and justice in the polity and that he is one hundred percent for Atiku Abubakar, Iyorchia Ayu and Aminu Tambuwal who threw you under the bus to achieve their selfish aims.

"For adumbrating on what you and the G-5 stand for, Jang became angry and took it personal with Lalong calling him all sorts of names and worst of all, exposed himself as not worthy of the trust and respect you have accorded him.

"Sir, have you travelled this far to ensure equity and justice in the polity only for you to be betrayed by the very people you've been trying very hard to sustain and restore to political relevance with your hard earned resources and valuable time?

"Instead of staying the course of the G-5 position which he pretends to support at the national level and on national television, the former governor is singing a different tune in Plateau State, in a  classical case of double speak.

"Those familiar with the antics of the former military administrator are however not surprised as he has in the past demonstrated the same trait of inconsistency when he left the PDP after losing at the primary in 1999 and joined the now defunct ANPP swearing never to return to the PDP only to abandon his supporters in the ANPP when he saw an opportunity to grab the PDP ticket in the build up to 2007 and quickly ate his vomit.

"Even while in the PDP, he again betrayed so many people that helped him to return to the party when he became governor that many of them including his deputy, Pauline Tallen out of anger, formed what later came to be known as PDP 2 before leaving for other parties.

"You remember his role in the chairmanship of the Nigeria Governors Forum where he said without shame that he won the election with 16 votes against his opponent who scored 19? That is the kind of person he is. Always supporting a wrong cause in a wrong way.

"In the same manner, he has now taken to his double dealing antics again urging his dwindling number of supporters to support the PDP Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in total embarrassment to your altruistic populist agenda, which he pretends to support.

"The former governor has continued to assure his few followers that he’ll get funding from you to deliver Plateau State to Atiku Abubakar and by so doing, damage and embarrass your group interest, and secure the ministerial position promised him in one of the  nocturnal meetings with that camp.

"If you doubt this submission, we urge you to kindly monitor the private FM station, Jay FM,  which he personally owns to verify the rubbish being broadcast to deride your corporate position and that of the G-5.

"Sir, is it not for the same act of betrayal that you reprimanded Celestine Omehia who through your magnanimity was enjoying all the perquisites of office as a former governor from the Rivers State government only for him to go behind your back to support Atiku?

"Your Excellency, the case of Jang may come to you as a shocking betrayal, however, the Plateau people who are familiar with his antics are not surprised.

"When you personally stormed the courts in Jos to rescue the former governor from corruption charges along with the background efforts you made to save him from imprisonment, not a few knew that those things you did in good faith would be requited with betrayal.

"Hence, barely two weeks to the presidential election that is meant to project you as a nationalist, the Judas is unleashing his treacherous fangs to expose you to ridicule and mockery by pitching tents with the very people that conspired against you in the PDP presidential primary due to his selfish interest.

"As you continue to fight a just cause, kindly accept the assurances of our esteemed regard as we vow to continue to expose those that do not mean well for our party."

Signed: Clinton Bagat,

Coordinator,

Plateau PDP Intelligent Group

13-02-2023

RENEWED HOPE - TINUBU /SHETTIMA PRESIDENCY

 

Broken Shackles, Renewed Hope: Hallmarks of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidency

By Yakubu Dati

The illustration of broken shackles adorning the cap of the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has evolved from a mere beautiful piece of art to a symbol of liberation under a new beginning.

Like a true African art piece, the illustration is not just about aesthetics, but encapsulates a deeper meaning that  resonates with the people.

The immediate acceptance of the broken shackles as an emblem is an endorsement of the ideal that those behind it have the vision of what Nigeria needs to progress to the comity of advanced nations that have broken the chains of poverty and underdevelopment and has further revealed the philosophical depth of Tinubu,  the man whose time has come … awal’okan!

Not surprisingly, the insignia of the broken shackles has found its way into the fabric of northern and southern attires, evoking a definitive fashion statement and adding to the many positives of the Tinubu brand.

While the symbol is sending the right messages across,  the Renewed Hope mantra of the Tinubu/Shettima APC Presidential campaign is also doing wonders on its own.

It is gaining traction through strategic deployments of intimidating rallies, sectorial townhall meetings and grassroots mobilization by thousands of support groups all lending support to what existing party structures are doing.

The APC, with a verifiable presence across the about 15,000 Electoral Wards spread across 774 Local Government Areas is daily sensitizing the 93 million registered voters to do the right thing come February 25. This figure can be fact-checked in case of doubt and at the risk of sounding immodest, let me add that facts are sacred. 

From all available indices, the All Progressive Congress (APC) parades an intimidating profile.

As the ruling party in Nigeria, it has in its kitty a humongous superstructure led by a sitting President at the top, supported by 22 governors and over 500 elected local government chairmen and about 13,00 councilors to boot. 

These elected representatives are not only driven to deliver the Tinubu/Shettima presidential ticket, but most importantly, in the bis to secure their political relevance and survival as elected representatives, in line with the dictum that all politics is local, they add to the fortunes of the party at the next general elections.

In tow are the political appointees who are resolved to protect their appointments as well as the many others who are desirous to seek relevance and accommodation in the next administration and are giving their all to make sure the Tinubu/Shettima presidency becomes a reality.

Added to that is the fact that all the aspirants have personal stakes in the 176,846. polling units across the country and they know what is expected of them to deliver to the APC!

These obvious advantages have been upped by the formidable popular choice of the Tinubu/Shettima presidential candidacy. 

A combination that is sensitive to the yearnings of Nigerians for inclusiveness and one which sets to unite the country on all fronts.

The groundswell of enthusiasts has invariably quadrupled with the army of youths who have situated their personal well-being with the APC ticket embedding it deeply in the Tinubu/Shettima victory.

Not only that, majority of National Assembly members and candidates who are members of the APC will further enlarge the nest of those convinced to vote for the party in their respective constituencies.

This has foreclosed the slightest possibility of electoral victory for the opposition parties and has put them on edge.

Under the calm and strategic leadership of the Director General, Gov Simon Lalong, with a team comprised of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor and charismatic labour leader; Hadiza Bala Usman, foremost pro-democracy/civil society  activist from the scion of the firebrand social justice crusader, Dr. Bala Usman; and herself former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority and Hon James Abiodun Faleke, a three-time serving federal lawmaker; all is set for the APC ship to coast to victory.

This formidable team has calibrated about 80 Directorates which has no less than 10,000 strong membership  all inspiring a coordinated force transversing the nooks and crannies of the nation harvesting votes.

Little wonder the opposition parties, faced with imminent defeat, are running from pillar to post and losing steam.

Rather than focus on issues of development, they're rather inciting the people by stoking primordial fault lines.

The main opposition party for instance, is currently engulfed in crisis of unimaginable proportion with five of its governors publicly rejecting their presidential candidate, situation which has left them gasping for breath with only eight governors!

The only APGA governor on the other hand, has since distanced his party from the regional social media presidential candidate from his state thereby practically rendering the candidacy as Dead On Arrival (DOA). 

The presidential pretender whose party has no governor and zero elected office holders has remained on the sphere of facebook and Twitter misleading innocent youths and promising an Eldorado that he couldn't offer when he was governor.

While the party entangled in credibility crisis and legal rigmaroles with the likelihood of its ending up with no presidential candidate, it is engaging in foreign travels to fleece the hard earned money of unregistered voters in the Diaspora with a Greek gift of Green cards which is akin to what transpired in “Waiting for Godot," a play by Samuel Beckett in which two characters, Vladimir (Didi) and Estragon (Gogo), engaged in a variety of discussions and encounters while awaiting the titular Godot, who never arrives.

With the three swing states of Lagos, Kano and Rivers firmly in the kitty of the APC, the pollsters are unanimous about a Tinubu/Shettima Presidency  

This reminds me of a literary piece titled, “Broken Shackles “ which was published in 1889 in Toronto under the pseudonym of Glenelg.

Little did the author  imagine that the theme of the work will resonate in the most populous country in Africa centuries later to inspire millions to break from their shackles and embrace Renewed Hope under a Tinubu/Shettima presidency in 2023!

It is due to the freedom and opportunities that a broken chain offers which is different from the dour and Utopian claims of the opposition, that I urge Nigerians to in line with the popular mantra “shine your eyes and follow who know road!”

Yakubu Dati is the Chief of staff to the DG PCC

REPS MEMBER COMMENDS GOV. ORTOM, CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF FOR DEPLOYING SOLDIERS IN ADO BORDER COMMUNITIES

... Commends Rev Fr Solomon Ujah, The Clergy For Intervention

...Pledges More Support For Operation Whirlstroke

... Moves To Establish NDLEA Zonal Command In Igumale

... Urges Soldiers To Clear Doubt Of Criminals

The Honourable Member representing Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Dr. Francis Ottah Agbo has commended Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor and the Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe for deploying Soldiers around the border communities of Odoke, Ugboghelle, Anmeka, Apa-Ogbozu to manage the spill over of the Ezza/Effium crisis!

He also commended the clergy, particularly, Reverend Father Solomon Ujah for his strategic role in persuading the Benue State Government to quickly deploy Operation Whirlstroke to the troubled area where he oversees as Parish priest.

The Ezza/ Effium crisis started last year, in Ohaukwu LGA of Ebonyi State and escalated to parts of Ado LGA, Benue State where Ezza and Effium people also live!

Dr. Ottah Agbo in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Mr. Andrew Agbese described the Force Commander of the Operation Whirstroke, Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe as a patriotic and committed officer.

He said having worked closely with Gen Aligbe in Bayelsa State when he served as Task Force Commander, he knows he will motivate the officers and men to clear the doubts of the ethnic militias and criminals taking advantage of the Ezza/Effium crisis to kill and destroy property in the Ado border communities!

The Lawmaker who doubles as Chairman, Narcotic Drugs Committee and Spokesman of the Reps Minority Caucus, promised to lend more support to Operation Whirlstroke in Ado.

While stressing that the existing Security Apparatchik is overwhelmed in Ado, the Feed Back Lawmaker promised to establish an NDLEA Zonal Command in Igumale to complement the efforts of security agencies in tackling insecurity. The Lawmaker said the foundation laying stone of the Command will be laid by the NDLEA Chairman/ CEO, Gen. Buba Marwa before the end of April, 2022.

ATTENTION MEDIA HOUSES!

04-01-2022

Libelous Statement In Circulation

It has come to the notice of the Honourable Member representing Ado/ Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Dr Francis Ottah Agbo, that a highly libelous statement attributing a comment against the military is being circulated to media houses to tarnish his hard earned reputation as a patriotic leader.

It is pertinent to let the media houses in receipt of the statement know that at no time did the Honourable Member make the comment as even the person quoted did not in any way imply nor make such a statement in the comment section of the social media platform referred.

The Lawmaker, popularly known as the Ozigizaga and Moving Train of Enone does not shy away from issues and whenever he has cause to go public on any matter, he does so directly or through his Media Team and if that is that case, he makes it clear that they have his authority to issue such statements.

Attribution is key in journalism and can only be done either directly or on behalf of a person with his express permission.

The Honourable Member hopes the concerned media houses would be properly guided and treat the statement with the contempt it deserves.

Andrew Agbese,

Senior Legislative Aide to

Honourable Francis Ottah Agbo.