APC Kicks Off Local Government Election Campaign Amidst Credibility Crisis: Certificate, Age & Perjury Allegations Surface

 *APC Kicks Off Local Government Election Campaign Amidst Credibility Crisis: Certificate, Age & Perjury Allegations Surface

The All Progressives Congress (APC) recently presented its candidates with flags for the forthcoming local government elections at the party's Acme Secretariat. This event was held despite significant concerns surrounding the conduct of the party's primary elections.

 Multiple allegations of irregularities and potential violations of electoral laws have been leveled against certain candidates across various Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within the state.

The party's appeal committee reportedly received petitions from over 45 Chairmanship aspirants and 59 Councillorship aspirants. These petitions detailed serious allegations, including age falsification, certificate forgery, perjury, and manipulation of the electoral process etc 

Despite the severity of these allegations, the party leadership appears to have disregarded the complaints and proceeded with the campaign launch, indicating a readiness for the upcoming elections. This decision raises serious questions about the party's commitment to upholding ethical standards and recognizing the potential consequences of such actions.

As Lagosians anticipate the opportunity to elect individuals of value and integrity to represent them in their respective councils, the All Progressives Congress leadership, in its discretion, has chosen a different path. The appeal committee, which received numerous petitions, has remained silent, failing to publicly release its findings or provide justification for the authenticity and resolution of the claims. This lack of transparency further fuels concerns about the fairness and integrity of the candidate selection process.

The failure to publicly disclose the appeal committee's findings further exacerbates public concerns. It raises anxieties that individuals potentially facing serious accusations will be allowed to assume leadership roles within the LGAs and LCDAs for the next four years. This lack of transparency undermines public trust and casts doubt on the party's commitment to good governance.

Supporters of the accused candidates have taken to social media, asserting that the matter is an internal party affair and a pre-election issue, over which the party holds exclusive jurisdiction. However, this perspective disregards the fundamental rights of any aspirant to seek legal recourse in a competent court if they believe they have been wronged by the party's decision-making processes.

This viewpoint overlooks the fundamental right of aspirants to seek redress in a competent court of jurisdiction if they believe the party has demonstrated a lack of equity and fairness in assessing the merits of their allegations.

According to Section 6(6)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), the judiciary is vested with the power to determine questions relating to the civil rights and obligations of citizens. This principle has been affirmed in numerous court decisions, including the landmark case of Atiku Abubakar v. PDP & Others (2014) LPELR-22777(SC). In this case, the Supreme Court held that a court possesses the authority to nullify a primary election where violations of the party's constitution or electoral guidelines have occurred.

 Furthermore, in Buhari v. Obasanjo (2014) LPELR-22778(SC), the Supreme Court affirmed the jurisdiction of courts to adjudicate disputes related to primary elections, including matters concerning the conduct of delegate elections. These legal precedents underscore the right of an aspirant to seek redress in a competent court, citing the relevant constitutional provisions, electoral laws, and established case law.

The implications of the APC's decision to field candidates, given the existing evidence, legal precedents, and the party's own constitution, are significant. It could potentially lead to the disqualification of those candidates if they participate in the election, effectively leaving the party without representation.

Historical precedents support this concern. For instance, on May 19, 2019, the Supreme Court nullified the APC's election victory in Zamfara State. Additionally, the case of Salisu Buhari, who was disgraced from office in 1999 due to certificate forgery, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions.

Also the APC's governorship victory in Bayelsa State, nullified on February 2020 by the supreme Court due to a similar case involving certificate forgery.

Based on these precedents, the leadership and stakeholders within the Lagos APC should carefully consider the implications of their actions. They must act with integrity and transparency, recognizing that opposition parties and the electorate are closely observing their decisions. The public's desire to avoid having individuals with questionable backgrounds managing public funds should be a primary concern.

In conclusion, many of the allegations against the candidates involve serious charges, including perjury, certificate forgery, and age falsification etc these accusations may draw parallels to past cases, such as that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it's crucial to remember that those matters were thoroughly investigated, and facts were presented, ultimately leading to a Supreme Court verdict.

However, a key difference lies in the transparency surrounding these current allegations. How many of the accused candidates have publicly made their certificates and information available for public scrutiny, or otherwise provided concrete evidence to prove their innocence? Instead of relying on supporters to engage in deflection and unsubstantiated claims, the candidates should focus on demonstrating their integrity.

In all this unending gambles of the All Progressives Congress, the opposition parties are watching patiently and might latch on the overconfidence of the ruling party to challenge the results of election in court to claim victory . Local Government Election in Lagos state would surely have a part 2 to test the law and integrity of the judiciary .

A word is sufficient for the wise, and a stitch in time saves nine. It is hoped that the leadership and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State will prioritize the tenets of integrity, transparency, and equity in their decision-making process.

Group Demands Nullification of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government APC Chairmanship Candidate

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Group Demands Nullification of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government APC Chairmanship Candidate

A non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting good governance and electoral integrity , Center for policy and good governance and electoral Intergrity ( CPGG) has publicly called for the nullification of the APC chairmanship candidate in the upcoming local government election. This demand was made during a press conference held in Lagos and subsequently broadcast by TV 360 Nigeria.

During the press conference, the organization alleged that the APC chairmanship candidate, Otunba Kehinde Oloyede, had falsified his age and educational certificates, and committed perjury by providing false information. These actions, the group stated, constitute a significant breach of the constitution and electoral laws.

The spokesperson for the organization asserted that, based on their investigations and presented convincing evidence, the All Progressives Congress should nullify Otunba Oloyede's candidacy in order to uphold the integrity of the Nigerian constitution and electoral guidelines. The group further stated that Oloyede previously contested a House of Representatives election in 2003 in the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government area, utilizing documents that contained age falsification.

The group's spokesperson cited relevant sections of the constitution and electoral laws that emphasize the disqualification of candidates in such circumstances. The organization implored the leadership and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress to uphold the integrity of the local government, safeguard democratic principles, and guide the party towards compliance with the constitution.

Furthermore, allegations of falsified information regarding Otunba Kehinde Oloyede's age and academic qualifications have surfaced immediately following the release of the party's screening committee's clearance list. Numerous community members have come forward with claims based on their knowledge of his childhood and family history, including accounts from former classmates and details of his upbringing. These accounts, which are widely known within the community, highlight that he is the twin son of Alhaja Taiwo Almoroof, the Iyaloja of Oshodi, who was deposed during the Tinubu administration.

Click below link for details of the interview 

https://youtu.be/ZgGlCwDasHc?si=0HK3-kbuShIR3VZ1

Coalition of All 2025 Chairmanship Aspirants opposes Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Chairman's third term Bid

COALITION OF ALL 2025 CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANTS OPPOSES IKOSI-ISHERI LCDA CHAIRMAN'S THIRD TERM BID

 A coalition of all 2025 Chairmanship aspirants and concerned stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has formally opposed the third-term bid of the incumbent chairman, Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada.  The coalition expressed deep concern regarding the eligibility of Princess Bada to contest in the forthcoming local government elections, citing violations of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Princess Bada served as Vice-Chairman to the late Engr. Abdulfatai Oyesanya for six years. Following Engr. Oyesanya's death, she assumed the position of Executive Chairman, completing his tenure and subsequently serving a full four-year term.  The coalition has learned of her intention to seek a third term.

The coalition cites six key reasons for Princess Bada's disqualification:

1. Violation of the 1999 Constitution

2. Inconsistent Enforcement of Party Rules

3. Erosion of Internal Democracy

4. Exceeding Constitutional Term Limits

5. Imposition Without a Proper Electoral Process

6. Widespread Public Disapproval

The coalition urges the Lagos State APC Working Committee to disqualify Princess Bada in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution and party rules regarding term limits.  Furthermore, the coalition calls upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene to preserve internal democracy and fairness.  They also request that Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State House of Assembly, and the Governor's Advisory Council (GAC) take urgent and decisive steps to ensure the uniform enforcement of party rules across all Local Government Areas.

A copy of the submitted petition is attached

APC 2025 primary election : Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Chairmanship aspirants submit petition against third term agenda of the current chairman

IKOSI-ISHERI LCDA 2025: COALITION OF CHAIRMANSHIP ASPIRANTS KICK AGAINST THIRD TERM BID OF THE CURRENT CHAIRMAN 

 Apc primary election : coalition of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Chairmanship aspirants pertition All progressives Congress Lagos state working committee challenging the unconstitutional third term agenda of the current chairman princess Bolanle Samiat Bada. 

The group claimed her attempt to contest the coming local government election is unconstitutional and illegal , having served two terms ,part of her late  former boss and another four years .

 The group said they had gone ahead to submit their petition to the right quarters of the Allah progressives Congress and sure the matter would be given acceleration attention.

Lagos Team steps up training for National Youth Games in Asaba

 Lagos Team Steps Up Training for National Youth Games in Asaba

The Lagos State team for the National Youth Games in Asaba is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation for the competition. Athletes are undergoing rigorous training sessions at Rowe Park, their training camp, aiming to improve upon their previous medal haul.

To provide encouragement and assess the team's progress, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Council, Lakan Fatodun, and the Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports, paid a visit to the training camp. Their presence served as a morale booster for the athletes as they continue their dedicated preparation for the Games. 

 _Lagos State Government Showcases Commitment to Youth Athletes_ 

Following the visit of the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Council, Hon. Adebanji Atewogboye, the Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports, made a follow-up visit to the National Youth Games training camp on Sunday, September 8th. He reiterated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to the development of young athletes in the state.

Inspired by the unwavering support, the athletes pledged to surpass previous medal achievements by securing victories in both individual and team events. 

The Lagos State government, through the office of the Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports, has demonstrated a strong dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of excellence in sports 

 

ForceCID arraigned KOKOzaria for assault on Lawori

 Court Remands NURTW big boy, Kokosaria over alleged assault

* Granted 2million Naira bail with 2 sureties in like sum

A Lagos Chief Magistrate’s Court, has remanded a chieftain of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Ganiyu Ayinde Oyedepo, a.ka. Kokosaria, in prison custody, following his arraignment on alleged offences of conspiracy, assault, and conduct likely to cause breach of public peace.

Chief Magistrate B. Sonuga, remanded the NURTW chieftain, after he pleaded not guilty to the charges, made against him by the operative of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (ForceCID), Alagbon, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Kokosaria was arraigned before the court today, in a charge marked B/40/2024, by Barrister Morufu Animashaun, a legal officer in the legal department of ForceCID, Alagbon, Lagos.

Arraigning the defendant, Barrister Animashaun told the court that the defendant committed the offences in June 5, 2024, at Idimu area of Lagos State, by conspiring with some of his ‘boys’ and assaulted one Alhaji Ade Adele, popularly called Baba Lawori.

Barrister Animashaun further told the court that in the course of the assault, the said Kokosaria’s boys, broke Baba Lawori’s head with a bottle, which inflicted injury on him and caused him grievous harm.

The prosecutor told the court that the offences committed by defendant, contravened sections 411; 173 and 168 (l)(d) of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State. And punishable under section 168 (2) of the same laws.

The NURTW chieftain, Kokosaria, denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty the charges.

With the defendant’s not guilty plea, the prosecutor, Barrister Animashaun, urged the court to remand him in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS), pending conclusion of the charges.

But his lawyers, S. Bello with S. O. Egunjobi, orally moved their client’s bail application, saying that he is a noble person and a member of NURTW and that charge against their client is a bailable one, which the court can exercise it’s discretion judicially and judiciously.

They urged the court to grant him bail in the most liberal terms.

The lawyers told the court that their client is a noble person and a member of NURTW and that charge against their client is a bailable one, which the court can exercise it’s discretion judicially and judiciously.

The prosecutor asked the defendant’s counsel of their client is a governor or a popular police. He therefore urged the court to discountenance the bail application.

The prosecutor however, while citing the plethoras of legal authorites, vehemently opposed the bail application on the ground that he is a ‘flight risk’, and that being a member of NURTW does not make qualified him to be a noble person.

Ruling on the bail application, Chief Magistrate Sonuga, after hearing counsel’s submissions, admitted him to bail the defendant in the sum of N2 Million with two sureties in like sum.

The sureties, according to the Chief Magistrate, must be of unquestionable character, with evidence of means livelihood and who must be residing with the court’s jurisdiction.

The Chief Magistrate also ordered the sureties to present to court evidence of three years tax, and have their addresses verified.

Chief Magistrate Sonuga, while adjourning the matter to October 29, for mention, however remanded the defendant in NCoS’s custody, pending the perfection of the bail terms.

Charges against the defendant reads: “That you Ganiyu Ayinde Oyedepo (M) on or about the 25th day June, 2024 at Idimu, Lagos in the Lagos Magisterial District, Lagos conspired to commit Felony wit: Assault Occasioning Harm and committed an Offence contrary to Section 411 of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

“That you Ganiyu Ayinde Oyedepo (M) on or about the 25th day June, 2024 at Idimu, Lagos in the Lagos Magisterial District , Lagos unlawfully procured one of your boys (now at large) who unlawfully broke bottle and inflicted injuries on the head of one Alhaji Ade Adele and committed an Offence contrary to Section 173 of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State 2015.

“That you Ganiyu Ayinde Oyedepo (M) on or about the 25th day June, 2024 at Idimu, Lagos in the Lagos Magisterial District, Lagos conducted ourself in a manner likely to cause breach of peace when you threatened and procured one of your boys (now at large) to break bottle on the head of one Alhaji Ade Adele and committed an Offence contrary to Section 168 (l)(d) of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State 2015 and punishable under Section 168 (2) of thé same Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos state 2015.”

Breaking news : Nigeria Government endorses Groundbreaking clean cookstoves Project in Nigeria

FG ENDORSES GROUNDBREAKING CLEAN COOKSTOVES PROJECT IN NIGERIA

... GreenPlinth Africa, Partners To Deploy 80 Million FREE Cookstoves Nationwide 

...Set to Plant 4 Billion Economic Trees Across The Nation

In a landmark move towards sustainable development and environmental conservation, the Federal Government of Nigeria through the National Council on Climate Change has officially endorsed a revolutionary initiative aimed at addressing global climate crisis, environmental challenges and improving livelihoods across the nation.

Under the auspices of Greenplinth Africa, in collaboration with strategic partners, an ambitious Article 6.4 project has been launched to distribute 80 million clean cookstoves free of charge to households throughout Nigeria. This initiative, the largest single clean cooking systems project in the world, marks a significant step forward in combatting the adverse health and environmental impacts associated with traditional cooking methods, such as indoor air pollution and deforestation.

The provision of clean cookstoves is set to transform the lives of millions of Nigerians, particularly women and children, who are disproportionately affected by the harmful effects of traditional cooking practices. The adoption of clean and efficient cookstoves by households will lead to improved indoor air quality, reduce respiratory illnesses, and largely contribute to mitigating climate change through lower carbon emissions. 

In a statement by Dr. Olawale Akinwumi, President and CEO of Greenplinth Africa Limited, the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr. Salisu Dahiru recently issued a formal Letter of Endorsement (LoE) for the 'Improved And Efficient Cooking Energy Solution For Nigeria' – a Programmatic Article 6.4 Project.

Dr. Dahiru who is also the Designated National Authority (DNA) and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Focal Point in Nigeria averred that the project would result in greenhouse gas emission reduction and more importantly lead to sustainable forest development and job creation in Nigeria. 

According to him, besides reduction in domestic emissions, the project will decrease upper respiratory infections, thereby leading to improved health conditions; and equally enhance the nation in achieving sustainable development and the goals of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Speaking on the importance of the project, Dr. Victor Fodeke, Vice President and GMD of Greenplinth Africa Limited stated that the initiative will particularly benefits vulnerable communities, women and children, who bear the brunt of health issues linked to traditional cooking practices. “Nigerians will experience tangible benefits while collectively contributing to global efforts in combating climate change”, he said.

Dr. Fodeke, a former Technical Adviser on Climate Change to the African Union (AU) declared that in addition to the deployment of clean cookstoves, the project includes an ambitious aforestation campaign, with plans to plant a staggering 4 billion economic trees across the nation. This initiative not only aims to combat deforestation but also to promote sustainable land management practices, enhance biodiversity, and create economic opportunities for communities across Nigeria – stimulating economic growth by creating new avenues for employment and income 

generation.

“The Article 6.4 Clean Cookstoves Project will be a foreign exchange earner for the Nigerian economy. This is first time anywhere in the world that efficient clean cookstoves project of this magnitude is being launched to be fully funded for every household, and 100% financed by Carbon Credits.

Our PANDA Cookstove is also the first clean cookstove in the world to be launched with the co-benefit of Innovative Tree Planting and Nurturing to eliminate or reduce Poverty, Hunger, and Diseases”, he concluded.

The Federal Government's endorsement of this groundbreaking Article 6.4 initiative underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of its citizens. 

The Improved and Efficient Cooking Energy Solution for Nigeria is a United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Global Climate Action Portal (GCAP) registered Initiative. 

https://climateaction.unfccc.int/Initiatives?id=134

https://cookstoves.greenplinthafrica.com/

https://greenplinthafrica.com/

15th May, 2024