Politics

As the next US 2024 election approaches, a growing number of Americans are rallying around their preferred candidates. While the outcome of the election is creating a big buzz online and offline, several people are now making it clear who their preferred candidate is. In a recent tweet, X’s (formerly Twitter) CEO, Elon Musk, highlighted his support for Republican candidate Donald Trump. The Tesla boss noted that without Trump’s leadership, America could face a dangerous political shift that threatens democracy itself. “Very few Americans realize that, if Trump is not elected, this will be the last election. Far from being a threat to democracy, he is the only way to save it! “Let me explain: if even 1 in 20 illegals become citizens per year, something that the Democrats are expediting as fast as humanly possible, that would be about 2 million new legal voters in 4 years. “The voting margin in the swing states is often less than 20 thousand votes. That means if the “Democratic” Party succeeds, there will be no more swing states!!” He further accused the Democrats of trying to create a one-party system in the US using asylum seekers. “Moreover, the Biden/Harris administration has been flying ‘asylum seekers’, who are fast-tracked to citizenship, directly into swing states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Arizona. It is a surefire way to win every election.  “America then becomes a one-party state, and democracy is over. The only ‘elections’ will be the Democratic Party primaries. This already happened in California many years ago, following the 1986 amnesty. “The only thing holding California back from extreme socialism and suffocating government policies is that people can leave California and remain in America. Once the whole country is controlled by one party, there will be no escape. “Everywhere in America will be like the nightmare that is downtown San Francisco,” Must concluded. Reacting to Elon Musk’s tweet, a user said, “You can’t make it any clearer.  Trump is our only hope for America to survive. Otherwise, we plunge into total darkness and despair.  Your kids and grandkids’ future depends on it.” Another user shared a strong opinion on Twitter, stating, “This is the fight for the soul of our nation. Freedom and Our Republic are literally on the ballot. We have to vote for Trump.”

The World Bank has recently approved three significant projects for Nigeria, amounting to $1.57 billion in financing. This funding aims to tackle various governance challenges in critical sectors such as education and healthcare, enhance primary healthcare services, and bolster resilience against climate change. On September 26, 2024, the World Bank reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s development by approving this financing package. With over 40% of its population living below the poverty line and a struggling healthcare system, the need for sustainable development solutions is more pressing than ever. Previous World Bank projects have aimed to address similar issues, setting a foundation for these new initiatives. The most recent funds are intended to strengthen human capital and improve infrastructure, ultimately addressing poverty and enhancing productivity across the nation. The package consists of a $1.5 billion loan and a $70 million grant, reflecting a broader strategy to uplift key sectors. Breakdown of Projects HOPE-GOV Program: Funding: $500 million Objective: Improve governance in education and health sectors. Focus: Address financial and human resource management issues to enhance service delivery. The goal is to ensure that basic education and primary healthcare services reach vulnerable populations through improved transparency and accountability. Primary Healthcare Provision Strengthening Program (HOPE-PHC): Funding: $570 million Objective: Strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly for women, children, and adolescents. Focus: Reduce maternal and under-five mortality rates while enhancing health infrastructure resilience. The program aims to provide quality reproductive and child health services to approximately 40 million Nigerians in underserved areas, supported by a $500 million International Development Association (IDA) credit and a $70 million grant from the Global Financing Facility (GFF). Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project (SPIN): Funding: $500 million Objective: Protect Nigeria from climate-induced challenges such as floods and droughts. Focus: Enhance dam safety, improve water resource management, and expand irrigation services to benefit around 950,000 people, including farmers and livestock breeders. The project will also develop a master plan for hydropower generation, aiming to boost energy production through public-private partnerships. The Impact of Continuous Borrowing World Bank’s $1.57 billion commitment to Nigeria represents a pivotal opportunity for transformation across critical sectors. If executed effectively, these projects could not only improve immediate living conditions but also lay the groundwork for a more resilient and self-sustaining economy. While these projects promise significant improvements in critical sectors, the continuous borrowing from the World Bank raises concerns about the long-term implications for Nigeria’s economy. Each loan compounds the nation’s debt burden, potentially mortgaging the future of Nigerians. The continuous borrowing raises critical questions about the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s economic future. It is essential for the Nigerian government to balance immediate needs with the long-term implications of its financial decisions to ensure a prosperous future for all citizens. Relying on external financing can lead to a cycle of dependency, where the government prioritizes loan repayments over local investments in infrastructure and social services. In addition, high levels of debt may deter foreign investment and hinder economic growth. Investors often seek stable environments, and excessive borrowing can create uncertainty about Nigeria’s financial health. Without a clear strategy for sustainable development and economic diversification, Nigeria risks becoming trapped in a cycle of borrowing that does not yield long-term benefits.

In a significant development, the Nigerian Police Force has declared Andrew Wynne, a British national, as wanted in connection with an alleged conspiracy to undermine Nigeria’s democratic government under President Bola Tinubu. Known also by the names Andrew Povich and Drew Povey, Wynne is accused of masterminding a scheme aimed at destabilizing the country and orchestrating an unconstitutional regime change. The police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, detailed that Wynne’s covert operations were conducted under the cover of legitimate businesses. He reportedly rented a property at Labour House in Abuja, where he established the “Iva Valley Bookshop” and founded the “STARS of Nations Schools.” These entities were allegedly used as fronts for his subversive activities aimed at destabilizing the Nigerian government. Adejobi revealed that authorities have gathered substantial documentary evidence and confessions that implicate Wynne in orchestrating and financing a series of disruptive protests that occurred in August. He is accused of providing financial support, operational guidance, and strategic direction to various operatives involved in the plot. The evidence points to Wynne’s active role in issuing directives, monitoring the protests, and advancing his destabilization agenda. Additionally, the Nigerian Police Force has summoned Comrade Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), for questioning. Ajaero, who is a tenant at Labour House where Wynne’s purported operations were based, is being investigated for any potential involvement or connections to the alleged plot.  “The Nigeria Police Force is conducting a thorough investigation into the involvement of both foreign nationals and local accomplices in efforts to undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions,” Adejobi stated. Adejobi elaborated that initial findings suggest the suspects were engaged in a range of unlawful activities, including inciting violence, spreading false information, and creating widespread chaos to justify their illegal aims. In a related development, the police have apprehended nine individuals who are suspected of receiving substantial financial backing from foreign sources to aid their destabilization efforts. This comes on the heels of the Department of State Services (DSS) arresting several Polish nationals in Kano during the protests, who were subsequently released after several weeks in detention. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover the full scope of the conspiracy and ensure that all those responsible are held accountable.

French President Emmanuel Macron has addressed the recent arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, which occurred on French territory. Macron clarified that this action is part of a broader judicial investigation and emphasized that it is devoid of any political motivations. In his response, President Macron took to X (formerly Twitter) to counter what he described as misleading narratives circulating about France’s stance on this matter. “I have observed numerous inaccuracies regarding France’s position following Pavel Durov’s arrest,” Macron stated. “France is unwavering in its commitment to upholding freedom of expression, communication, and innovation. Our dedication to these principles remains steadfast.” Macron further elaborated that in a nation governed by the rule of law, freedoms are protected within a structured legal framework, both in digital spaces and in everyday life. “It is essential for the judiciary, acting with complete independence, to enforce the law,” he added. “The arrest of Pavel Durov is part of an ongoing judicial process and should not be misconstrued as a political maneuver. It is the responsibility of the judicial authorities to make determinations regarding this case.” This statement from Macron has generated significant global interest and commentary, with notable figures like Elon Musk weighing in. Musk, known for his influential voice in the tech world, responded to Macron’s clarification by calling for greater transparency. “It would be beneficial for the global public to receive more details about the reasons behind Pavel Durov’s arrest,” Musk tweeted, reflecting widespread curiosity and concern over the situation. In the wake of Durov’s arrest, the Russian embassy in France has been actively seeking access to the detained individual but has faced obstacles. The embassy issued a statement accusing French authorities of hindering their attempts to engage with Durov. This diplomatic friction underscores the international dimension of the incident and the complex interplay between legal processes and global relations. The arrest has thus sparked a broad discussion on the intersection of law, politics, and personal freedoms, highlighting the tension between national judicial actions and international perceptions. As the situation develops, it will continue to draw scrutiny from both the public and international leaders.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, has sounded the alarm on Nigeria’s economic trajectory. In a recent address to the Nigerian Bar Association, she highlighted a concerning trend: the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate has been steadily declining since 2014, indicating a deterioration in the average Nigerian’s standard of living. The contrast between the pre-2014 era and the subsequent period is stark. Prior to 2014, Nigeria experienced a decade of robust economic growth, averaging 3.8% annually. This growth rate comfortably outpaced the nation’s population growth, resulting in a tangible improvement in the lives of its citizens. “We have had episodes of reforms and faster economic growth that were not merely a function of the price of oil. But we have been unable to consolidate and build on them, and millions of our compatriots have paid the price in terms of diminished job prospects and human well-being. “For example, in the decade between 2000 and 2014, we had an average GDP growth rate of 3.8%, well above our population growth rate of 2.6% per annum, meaning that people were on average truly improving their standard of living. “During the following decade, average annual GDP per capita has been negative around minus 0.9%, meaning people were worse off because we were not able to sustain prior positive growth momentum,” Okonjo-Iweala added. Nigeria’s declining GDP growth rate has significant implications for its worsening poverty rate and increasing population. Rising Poverty: When GDP growth slows or becomes negative, it typically leads to a decrease in job opportunities, reduced income levels, and increased economic hardship. This can push more people below the poverty line, exacerbating existing inequalities. Strained Social Services: A weakened economy can limit the government’s ability to provide essential social services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This can further marginalize vulnerable populations and contribute to a cycle of poverty. Increased Inequality: Declining GDP growth can disproportionately affect low-income and marginalized communities. This can lead to a widening gap between the rich and poor, contributing to social unrest and instability. Population Pressure: Nigeria’s rapidly growing population puts additional strain on its resources. When economic growth is sluggish, it becomes more difficult to meet the needs of a growing population, leading to increased poverty and unemployment. Okonjo-Iweala attributed this downturn to the government’s inability to sustain the positive growth momentum achieved by previous administrations. She emphasized that the challenges faced by the Nigerian Bar Association, and indeed by the nation as a whole, are deeply intertwined with the country’s economic struggles. To address these challenges and foster sustainable development, Okonjo-Iweala called for a consistent approach to economic policy, regardless of political affiliations. She argued that the country must prioritize long-term economic stability and growth over short-term gains.

The chairman of the Action People’s Party (APP) in Rivers State, Hon. Sunny Wokekoro, says the party will field candidates in the October 5 local government election in the state. The state chairman also expressed the readiness of the party to win the 23 chairmanship seats and the 310 councillorship seats in the state. Speaking when he, alongside the national legal adviser of the party, Barr Henry Odili, and the state legal adviser, Barr Henry Ekine, received, in a courtesy visit, the simplified Rivers daughters in his office on Monday, Hon. Wokekoro said the party is open to receiving defectors from other parties. He said, “We have to prove to the governor and to all those we are inviting to join our party that we are formidably enough and a veritable platform for them to contest the election. And how are we going to do that? We are going to start with the local government election. We have 319 wards, and we will now produce 319 councillors.” “We intend, by the special grace of God, to sweep you out. We are not leaving any. We have 23 local government council chairperson positions to contest, and by the special grace of God, we are going to clear these 23 of them. When that is done, we are going to make this party, the APP, a national party. We are going to wrestle power and position from those parties that do not take the dream and the aspirations of Nigerians for granted,” he said. Speaking further, Hon. Wokekoro said the APP has become a threat to the bigger party, explaining that the attack on the state secretariat by detractors made the party popular. The APP chairman also promised to always defend the interests of the party, noting that he intends to take the party to greater heights.  He said: “If anybody is making the mistake of thinking that what they did here is a discouragement to any of us, the person should go and have his or her head re-examined because we are more, we are more emboldened, we are more determined, and we are more encouraged to do what we are doing. Rivers State must be rescued, irrespective of the political parties to which we all belong.” Rivers State must be rescued. This narrative in River State, introduced by people who do not even understand why they have to introduce it, was introduced by people that River State has been so kind and wonderful to. River State has blessed them beyond their imaginations, and they want to introduce this kind of thing to pay back the River State people. Also speaking, the national legal adviser of the party, Barr Henry Odili, enjoined the people to join hands and move the party forward. Barr Odili assured on behalf of the national working committee of the party that the Action Peoples Party has come to stay in Rivers State and is ready to sweep all electable offices in the coming council elections in the state. Earlier, the coordinator of the group, Helen Nyeche, promised to support the party chairman as he led the party to success.  Also, the chairman received, in a courtesy visit, the Supreme Council for SIM, led by its chairman, General Smith. Highlights of activity at the secretariat were the kick-off of the “APP with Jesus” weekly prayer meeting and the dedication of the secretariat by Pastor David Dakoru.

The Rivers State Ethnic Youth Leaders Council (RSEYLC), the state’s leading indigenous youth organization, along with various affiliated youth groups, have strongly condemned recent calls for the removal of Mr. Dango Matthew. Mr. Matthew currently serves as the Special Adviser on Youth to the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). In a statement, the youth organizations have labeled the individuals behind these calls as “faceless, unscrupulous, and disgruntled elements with ulterior motives.” “Our attention has been drawn to the unwarranted call by some faceless, unscrupulous, and disgruntled individuals for the sack of Mr. Dango Matthew, the Special Adviser (S.A.) on youth, to the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). “The efforts and determination of these demented, frustrated, and hunger-driven ” Oliver Twist” individuals who have pretentiously come under the guise of the Niger Delta Stakeholders with the aim to deceive the general public have been spotted and are therefore condemned by every well-meaning individual.” They expressed their unwavering support for Mr. Matthew’s leadership and denounced the baseless attempts to tarnish his reputation. “Dango is a friendly and very humble person, level-headed, and always apt in discharging his duties and responsibilities fervently. As a result, the attention of the general public and all relevant authorities is therefore drawn to discountenance and disregard the characters of Charles Omusuku and his likes in their unwarranted call for the sack of Dango, as this is not emanating from the true Niger Delta Stakeholders. “This call is known to be coming from the enemies of our region, to spoil and smear the good work and efforts of the current NDDC Board. “We are calling on Charles Omusuku and his cohorts to desist forthwith, in this malicious adventure and should go and look for a proper means of livelihood and engagements, other than threatening the lives of individuals, private and public establishments, for his or their daily survival.” The youth leaders urged the public to disregard these “malicious fabrications” and commended Mr. Matthew’s dedication to serving the interests of the Niger Delta’s youth. They believe Mr. Matthew’s leadership is crucial for ensuring the effective implementation of youth development programs within the Niger Delta region.

A vibrant assembly of Renewed Hope Family members from across the local governments of Rivers State gathered in significant numbers at the Port Harcourt Polo Club. A sea of banners proudly displaying their unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu, the event was a vivid demonstration of their collective commitment. Darling Amadi, the Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State, speaking, solicited support and patience from everyone as regards the on-going economic challenges in the state and nation at large. Amadi continued that while the current situation is tough, the current administration has only been 14 months in office and needs more time to fix the economic challenges that have been happening since the past administrations. Hon. Eric Wibani further commented, “We are here under the auspices of the Renewed Hope Family as Rivers people in solidarity with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are here in solidarity with the Nigerian Senate and with the Minister of the FCT. “What we have come to do is to appeal to Rivers people and Nigerians for more patience. We know that there are challenges as a country, but we have a firm belief that what we are experiencing is only for a while. I am sure that at the end of the day, when the policy adjustments of this administration will have taken shape and begin to yield results, we will all be happy.” Wibani concluded that Nigeria remains on the path to progress. Leading the rally was Tony Okocha. Okocha, who was at the helm in orchestrating this show of solidarity, rallied local residents to voice their backing for President Tinubu and underscore their unity behind his leadership. We are matching for Mr. President. This is Tinubu’s family in Rivers State, and Tinubu’s family in Rivers State is under the leadership of His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. We represent 001. He is very much aware that his family in Rivers State is out here today to show support to the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “We believe that Rome was not built in a day. If you want to make an omelet, you must break an egg.  Many of the programs that Mr. President is doing today are futuristic. The event marks a pivotal moment in reinforcing political alliances and rallying community support for the president’s agenda. Dr. Gift Worlu, former Commissioner of Housing in Rivers State, noted that there is a need to give support to the president as he is taking Nigeria on the right path. In his words: “Before now, Nigeria was moving in the wrong direction with a lot of speed. What President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come to do is redirect Nigeria to the right path. Unfortunately, just as we experienced, Nigeria is not moving with enough speed. But I want to assure you, in a couple of months, Nigeria will gather momentum; we will have regained our strength. And being on the right path, I can assure you that Nigeria will be that great nation that we all want. “The Tinubu that I know, like Jesus Christ, is ready to put down his life for Nigeria. I want to tell you that history will judge President Tinubu right. The decisions that he is taking today are decisions that true leaders take. All the other pretenders before him who did not have the will to make these decisions are the ones that put Nigeria where it is today.” Worlu also spoke of the achievements of Barr. Nyesom Wike, describing him as a man that rewards labour. Overall, all the speakers advocate for patience from the public as the current administration navigates economic difficulties.

In a significant development that could reshape the political landscape of Rivers State, a High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has nullified the dissolution of the Emeka Beke-led executive of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The court presided over by Justice Sika Aprioku, declared the actions of the APC National Working Committee (NWC) in removing the elected state executive as unlawful and unconstitutional. Reacting to the court ruling, Hon. Tony Okocha, in a press briefing, described the ruling as unjust, noting that the decision of the party ought to have been supreme in the eyes of the court. “It is not a surprise to us that the judge took that voyage. From what I know about the judiciary when a case of bias is raised against a trial judge before a matter commences, the judge must recuse himself from the matter. “In this case, the judge failed to hide his bias even after he was accused. “There are some people who were part of the plot, and they all agreed that the judgment that should be delivered must embarrass the party at the national level. “The National Working Committee of the APC had previously removed Emeka Beke for anti-party activities. In their wisdom, the party decided to lay off an exco that had been proven to be against the party.” Justice Aprioku’s ruling underscored the autonomy of state chapters of the APC, asserting that the NWC lacks the authority to dissolve an elected state executive committee before the expiration of its tenure. The court’s decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for the party’s internal dynamics and its electoral prospects in the state. Further highlighting his angst, Okocha noted that while the Supreme Court had repeatedly stated that the political party’s decision was supreme, Justice Aprioku still nullified the party’s decisions despite several assertions by his lawyers. Okocha reiterated his stance on Justice Aprioku’s biased judgment, stating that he was bribed. “Our senior advocate was able to raise the issue with the Supreme Court, but because the judge had already been paid, he decided to go the other way. This matter will go to the Supreme Court. “He made attempts at me to bring money, but I said no. I want to assure you, gentlemen of the press, and also our teeming supporters, that we are aware of the hand of the monkey inside the soup. But can they psychologize us into docility? The answer is, no. We are wiser than they think.” The reinstatement of the Beke-led executive marks a major victory for the faction loyal to the embattled chairman. It also sets a precedent for other state chapters facing similar leadership crises, potentially emboldening them to challenge the overreach of the party’s national leadership. The political landscape in Rivers State is expected to witness further developments as the implications of this ruling unfold.