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Fayose’s Death Wish For Buhari: Go To Afao Ekiti, Go To Aso Rock - By Pius Adesanmi

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwo0kzsKJymoRqjT-2Z24iUuyAM2bvbs7MT1CDAzCqW2gLddr5kkq1msHZjE3aXyt0spHr0YNxuE9XZjf0JLN2-7TKlB5SbJTy2V7JuVkyR2Iajgl0PPpj7QIYyzPNnTQdyGvbBKavE9X/s1600/fayose-court-ekiti.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwo0kzsKJymoRqjT-2Z24iUuyAM2bvbs7MT1CDAzCqW2gLddr5kkq1msHZjE3aXyt0spHr0YNxuE9XZjf0JLN2-7TKlB5SbJTy2V7JuVkyR2Iajgl0PPpj7QIYyzPNnTQdyGvbBKavE9X/s1600/fayose-court-ekiti.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<b>In human tales, in animal tales, in riddles, in proverbs, in legends, in myths, in every genre, in every department in which his ancestors ever exercised their imagination and creative genius to produce a worldview, they created tragic protagonists - humans, animals, ghomids, <i>iwin</i>, <i>anjonu</i> of every colour and shape - who end up being guests of <i>iku</i> (death) and his his wife, <i>arun</i>, (illness, disease) long before those they wished death upon, long before those whose death they had predicted in the foolish self-assurance of man, the <i>adarihurun</i> whose heart is filled with so much evil. Anybody whose first educational institution in life is the bucolic world of <i>alo </i>(folk tales) would have grown up with examples of tragic characters and actors who died while predicting the death of others.</b></div>
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I guess the surfeit of such characters in a people's oral tradition is culture's way of denying the foolish and the ignorant alibis and excuses. I did not know that.... O yes, you did. You have no excuse. Your culture, your history, your worldview provided you example after example, template after template, of characters who did what you just did and came to peril.</div>
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So, when a State Governor who comes from this rich cultural background, who grew up in the <i>alo</i> generation, dips his hands into the public till to buy up newspaper front pages to predict, project, and hint at the possible death of his fellow man in the name of politics - and this despite the fact that his culture arms him with copious examples of those who went long before the innocent on whose head they had wished or predicted death - you know that <i>it is not ordinary eyes</i>. </div>
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You know that it is not ordinary eyes because this Governor also professes the Christian faith of the Deeper Life fundamentalist variety. And he knows more than anybody else the instances in which his Yoruba Bible refers to anybody as an <i>asiwere eniyan</i> for the translators of that Book to Yoruba were coming from deeper cultural intimations than those who brought it to them in English. Wherever the book speaks about the fool, the ignorant, and the vainglorious, the Yoruba translators went for <i>asiwere eniyan</i>. For good reason.</div>
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If, knowing all these, a man goes ahead to place newspaper ads celebrating his anticipated death of his fellow man, you know that things have gone beyond blaming him or screaming your outrage at him like some of you are doing today. As it goes for <b>Doyin Okupe</b>, so it goes for this latest desecrator of culture. This is the point where you head out to <b>Afao Ekiti</b>. Somewhere in that town must be a <b>Fayose family compound</b> with an <i>olori ebi</i>, a family head. This is the point where you gently prod the extended family to do something before their son <i>crosses the market</i>. </div>
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Crossing the market is irreversible...</div>
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When you leave Afao Ekiti, you must go to <b>Aso Rock</b> to check out what is happening with the political 'owners' of Fayose. Although Fayose walked to Afao Ekiti on his head, he walked to the camp of the <i>Chief Occupant of Aso Rock</i> on his legs. The two locations must therefore be scrutinized to understand the sources of Fayose’s behaviour. </div>
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This is not by any means to suggest that President Jonathan is directly responsible for Fayose’s classlessness. After all, this is political season and political season is silly season. A candidate has no means of knowing or curtailing all the designs and excesses of overzealous supporters, especially those supporters motivated singularly by a desire to guarantee prebends and Federal rent collection. Indeed, it is highly unlikely that Fayose notified President Jonathan or even the Jonathan campaign of his desire to indulge in such crass stupidity as to buy up newspaper front pages and project a death wish on the President’s chief political opponent.</div>
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What makes it necessary for us to scrutinize Aso Rock is the need to understand why there is a certain part of Fayose’s brain sending a message to him that morally reprehensible acts and ethically sick actions are okay around President Jonathan, are okay on behalf of President Jonathan. What message, what body language is he getting from the President which tells him that this is okay? What exactly is the moral and ethical atmospherics around the President? What does Fayose see when he looks at that Presidential environment?</div>
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Well, he sees a campaign which has only just hired <b>Femi Fani-Kayode</b>, a man indicted for stealing (by the way, is stealing corruption? I am confused.) and corruption with pending charges and a pending court date. He sees a man indicted by the President’s own anti-corruption agency standing on the same podium with a President who, by that token, is sending a symbolic message to the nation he leads that corruption pays. Corruption is rewarded and becomes a sure path to becoming the President’s <i><b>personal person</b></i>. When Fayose looks beyond Femi Fani-Kayode, he sees <b>Doyin Okupe </b>around the President. Doyin Okupe is a contract racketeer who still owes the people of Benue and Imo states money he collected from their commonwealth and disappeared until he was lucky to encounter <b>a President who says to every thief: let them come unto me for theirs is the kingdom of King Jona</b>. When Fayose looks beyond Doyin Okupe, he sees <b>Pastor Wendell Simlin</b>, a crooked document forger who forged documents in a fraudulent attempt to implicate the current <b>Emir of Kano</b> in terrorism.</div>
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This is the atmosphere devoid of integrity which Fayose sees around his boss in Abuja; this the pestilential environment run by characters who have created an ethical Ebola around the President. The President doesn’t give a damn. He is the one who hired and surrounds himself with this manner of characters. He is the one who enables and authorizes this kwashiorkored environment. This is what sends a message to Fayose’s brain that misbehaviour, ethical emptiness, and moral decadence are okay and will in fact be rewarded. This is why he could have acted alone, without needing to even seek the consent of his principal in Abuja. Fayose knows the terrain. He knows what his principal likes.</div>
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<i>Mo mo awon aguntan mi, awon aguntan mi si mo mi…</i></div>
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President Jonathan knows his sheep.</div>
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President Jonathan’s sheep knows President Jonathan.</div>
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That is why they do these ‘unhearable’ and ‘unsayable’ things on his behalf.</div>

Fayose’s Death Wish For Buhari: Go To Afao Ekiti, Go To Aso Rock - By Pius Adesanmi

In human tales, in animal tales, in riddles, in proverbs, in legends, in myths, in every genre, in every department in which his ancest...

Kwankwaso's Rough Road To The Senate

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWI-Vlf3icM4c25Y_nofxpzdCWpWdKBPnDhzv5xlnoGxipyEsMRSN7OnixrZYPAbXTttS4EqCTRin0topEKwXfqQX7l4Rg5eLuK6hkZEyIeNwBJf4Wa0NIwqS1M-fJfJTUEbXS86qsA_q9/s1600/Kwankwaso.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWI-Vlf3icM4c25Y_nofxpzdCWpWdKBPnDhzv5xlnoGxipyEsMRSN7OnixrZYPAbXTttS4EqCTRin0topEKwXfqQX7l4Rg5eLuK6hkZEyIeNwBJf4Wa0NIwqS1M-fJfJTUEbXS86qsA_q9/s1600/Kwankwaso.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>After securing the Kano central senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is facing mounting obstacles on the road to the Senate.</b></div>
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Kwankwaso, who was the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives in the 1990s, resolved to stage a comeback to the National Assembly when he lost his bid to secure the APC presidential ticket. </div>
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The governor got the APC senatorial ticket on what could be described as a platter of gold as his son-in-law, <b>Alhaji Abba K Yusuf</b>, the flag-bearer, withdrew from the race for him. But the hurdles to reach the Senate are coming from both within the APC and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.</div>
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Apart from the strategies of the PDP candidate, incumbent <b>Senator Bashir Lado</b>, the presidency and the aggrieved members of APC are perfecting plans to thwart the senatorial ambition of the governor, who is regarded by members of his <i><b>Kwankwasiyya</b></i> movement as the oracle of Kano politics. </div>
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Although, when weigh up from all angles, <b>Governor Kwankwaso</b>’s political sagacity, status and clout dwarf that of Senator Lado, the supports being given to the sitting senator by the presidency and by the aggrieved APC members who fall out with the governor after the APC’s governorship primaries are roughing the governor’s way to the Senate.</div>
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The presidency is said to be all-out to scuttle Kwankwaso’s chance in continuation of the feud between the president and the governor. Like the other PDP governors who defected to APC following their disagreement with President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Kwankwaso is believed to be in the president’s bad books.  </div>
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Against this backdrop, the presidency is reportedly empowering key PDP members in the state to ensure that Lado defeat Kwankwaso in next month’s senatorial election in an effort to weaken the political clout of the governor whose second tenure ends on May 29th this year. </div>
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It was gathered that more attention is being given by the PDP machinery to the plot to scuttle the chance of Kwankwaso than any other position in the state. </div>
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"We know that it will be difficult for Jonathan to win Kano in this election. What happened in 2011 may repeat itself when he got less than 20 per cent of the total votes cast in the state. So we are channelling our efforts towards other positions, including Kano central senatorial district," a stalwart of PDP in the state said.</div>
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Of recent, Lado has embarked on house-to-house and market-to-market campaigns in the senatorial district where he buys food stuffs and disburses to people in the constituency. This has earned him the appellation <i>‘Lado mai kayan miya’</i> (literally, ‘<i>Lado the food distributor</i>’).</div>
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The challenge from within the APC too is equally formidable for Governor Kwankwaso. Already, some supporters of the deputy minority leader, <b>Abdulrahaman Kawu Sumaila</b>, who withdrew from the governorship race at the twilight of the APC’s primaries for the anointed candidate of the governor, Dr <b>Abdullahi Umar Ganduje</b>, are teaming up with the handlers of Lado to ensure the defeat of Kwankwaso in the February 14th senatorial election.</div>
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Piqued by the refusal of Governor Kwankwaso to support his ambition to become the running mate to Ganduje after withdrawing from the governorship race, Kawu said he would only work for Buhari’s victory in the state and was silent on others. Kwankwaso reportedly supported <b>Professor Hafiz Abubakar</b>, who was his Commissioner of Finance during his first tenure, 1999 to 2003, to pick the running mate slot.</div>
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According to <b><a href="http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/daily/politics/44637-kwankwaso-faces-major-hurdles-in-senatorial-contest">Daily Trust</a></b>, weeks after making his stance public, Kawu’s campaign vehicles were seen at the campaign office of Senator Lado, the PDP candidate. The vehicles were reportedly donated to Lado. The gesture brightens up Lado’s campaign.</div>
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Kawu is from Kano South senatorial district but his decision to support Lado is seen in some quarters as an attempt to fight back Kwankwaso whom he blames for his political misfortunes. He lost the governorship ticket, the running mate slot and his party’s ticket for Takai/Sumaila Federal Constituency, the seat he is currently occupying.</div>
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However, the actions of Kawu’s men are apparently not being taken seriously by Kwankwaso’s men, in view of their boss reported popularity in the state.  The governor’s popularity is believed to be enhanced by the numerous developmental projects he carried out in the state, which cut across various spheres of life.</div>
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Kwankwaso’s performance in the area of infrastructural development has not only endeared him to the people of the state but across the country. Some say that might have contributed to his good outing at the APC national convention in Lagos last month: he came second in the presidential primary election, ahead of former Vice President <b>Atiku Abubakar</b>. </div>
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The scheduling of the National Assembly and the Presidential Election on the same day by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is seen as another advantage not only to Kwankwaso but to all candidates of the APC vying for seats at both red and green chambers. Many believe that the tidal wave of the APC presidential candidate General Muhammadu Buhari’s popularity could propel many candidates contesting on the same party with him to victory.</div>
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But Senator Lado’s team seems unperturbed by all these. Contacted on phone, Senator Lado’s media aide, <b>Alhaji Shehu Kura</b>, said the chances of his boss are bright, considering the support he is getting from all corners, including from APC members in the state.</div>
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"Actually what is happening, you know, Kawu was roughly humiliated by the governor and his people are now working for the victory of Lado. His people are now actively working with us to ensure the victory of Lado," he said.</div>
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But commenting on the chances of Kwankwaso, one of his media aides, <b>Alhaji Jaafar Jaafar</b>, said irrespective of 'the machinations', Kwankwaso will record landslide victory come February 14th.</div>
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"It is going to be a walkover, considering the popularity of Kwankwaso in the state," he said in a telephone interview. </div>
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"Nobody can beat or defeat Kwankwaso in Kano State. Our achievements are solid, not perishable. Kwankwaso has done a lot for the people of the state which the people of the state are appreciating. Thus, they will vote for him overwhelmingly."</div>
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With the intrigues surrounding the February 14th election, the fight for the <b>Kano Central Senatorial District</b> seat is one of the key contests that are generating interest in the state. While Governor Kwankwaso’s men describe the contest with Senator Lado as a walkover, Lado’s men say Kwankwaso’s joining of the race cannot halt their boss return to the Senate. </div>
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In the final analysis, though, only the electorate will decide the fortune of the duo.</div>

Kwankwaso's Rough Road To The Senate

After securing the Kano central senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is facing mounti...

IBB Thanks APC For Honouring His Constituency (The Military)

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjag0dZjmYscGeG5CMpenbfHyeEMr2iAdJwsGXCdo0Ul_SELSJn4YwvKAk2fBSZ2MQNKc72Tbe06Zho_WwQJhQGrCCgov1JZr4i9TN3bpmH4F6GFEscQ0pwpcUBUrr_wvtgMgqaApyI5C_e/s1600/APC+in+Minna3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjag0dZjmYscGeG5CMpenbfHyeEMr2iAdJwsGXCdo0Ul_SELSJn4YwvKAk2fBSZ2MQNKc72Tbe06Zho_WwQJhQGrCCgov1JZr4i9TN3bpmH4F6GFEscQ0pwpcUBUrr_wvtgMgqaApyI5C_e/s1600/APC+in+Minna3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Former military President, Ibrahim Babangida has said that retired generals in Nigeria will support the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari at the February 14 election.</b></div>
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Babangida said this when APC presidential flagbearer, Buhari paid him a courtesy visit in his residence in Minna, the Niger State capital.</div>
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IBB, as many would call him, said he was proud of the persistence and perseverance of Buhari in seeking to offer himself for service at the highest level in the country’s young democracy.</div>
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Babangida told his guest: "You have beaten some of us in proving General Douglas McArthur’s theory that, 'old soldiers never die' but fade away gradually, but you have refused to fade away."</div>
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He then commended APC for honouring the military by nominating Buhari, adding that: "I wish to congratulate members of the party for the honour of nominating my colleague, General Muhammadu Buhari, as your presidential candidate in 2015 election."</div>
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He noted that the media had misrepresented their relationship, alleging that the media had created the impression that the two leaders were at loggerheads.</div>
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He said: "You media men have created this impression that we are fighting each other.</div>
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"Look at us here today. He knows what I mean and I know what he means.</div>
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"We both fought to keep Nigeria one when we were young Majors then. We were well travelled.</div>
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"I want to commend APC for choosing our colleague as your flag bearer. All of us will support you (Buhari) in this course to salvage this country."</div>
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On the entourage of Buhari to IBB’s house were the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Senator Lawan Shuaibu; the party's National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Chief Audu Ogbeh, Chief Bisi Akande, Governor Rotimi Ameachi, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Mr. Segun Oni.</div>
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Others are General Abdulraham Danbanzzau, Senator George Akume, Chief Niyi Adebayo, Senator Bukola Saraki, Alhaji Kawu Baraje and Chief (Mrs) Kemi Nelson.</div>

IBB Thanks APC For Honouring His Constituency (The Military)

Former military President, Ibrahim Babangida has said that retired generals in Nigeria will support the presidential candidate of the A...

Shagari Was Overthrown Because Irikefe Panel Indicted Buhari, Says Ikimi

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<b>Ex-Foreign Affairs Minister, Tom Ikimi has alleged that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Muhammdu Buhari, staged the 1983 coup that ousted the Shehu Shagari-led government because he was indicted by the Justice Ayo Irikefe panel that probed the missing $2.8 billion </b><b>oil money.</b></div>
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Ikimi, who stated this at the weekend during a rally organised by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in his hometown, Igueben, Edo State, also accused Bola Tinubu of trying to impose a Muslim-Muslim government on Nigeria with himself as Vice-President, saying the nomination of Yemi Osinbajo was just a fluke, as the intention was still on course.</div>
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He said: "When you talk of corruption, you can only know someone who is corrupt by what appointment you give him.</div>
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"He was Minister of Petroleum and before 1983, they smuggled $2.8 billion, which was in our MidWest Bank in England and put it in a notorious bank known as BCTI.</div>
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"By the time it was discovered, that money has yielded an interest of over $400 million. Up till now, nobody knows where that interest money is.</div>
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"They instituted a panel headed by High Court Judge, Ayo Irikefe. The Irikefe panel came out with a White Paper that indicted this man; he quickly made a coup to bring down the government. That was the reason for the 1983 coup that brought down Shagari government</div>
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"Some even say they want to see the paper for the $20 million. I want to see the paper for the $2.8 billion for the 1983. Therefore, what is good for the goose is good for the gander.</div>
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"They say Buhari is there because they claim he is Mr. Integrity. Is there any integrity without having any certificate, is there any integrity in not going to school, is there any integrity in lying about your qualification?</div>
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"General Buhari is now 73 years old, Jonathan is just over 50; Jonathan can access the internet, Jonathan is IT compliant, Jonathan is young, Jonathan is within this new generation. That is what we are talking about."</div>

Shagari Was Overthrown Because Irikefe Panel Indicted Buhari, Says Ikimi

Ex-Foreign Affairs Minister, Tom Ikimi has alleged that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Muhammdu Buh...

Lagos PDP Asks INEC To Disqualify Ambode Over Campaign Spendings

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<b>The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Lagos State chapter, on Sunday, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqualify the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Akinwunmi Ambode.</b></div>
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The PDP accused Ambode of breaching Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), which stipulates a maximum of ₦200,000,000 as fund permitted to be spent by a governorship candidate in an election.</div>
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PDP in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, <b>Taofik Gani</b>, said according to intelligence report, Ambode has spent over ₦6.7 billion in campaigning for election in the state.</div>
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The party also accused the incumbent Governor Babatunde Fashola of flouting the Electoral Act and INEC rules on civil campaigns by always attacking its governorship candidate, Jimi Agbaje, at APC rallies.</div>
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"Consequently, the PDP has called on EFCC to interrogate Ambode whilst demanding that INEC should summarily disqualify him from contesting at the polls."</div>
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The PDP said its intelligence team detected that Ambode had spent at least ₦6.7 billion on campaign strategies placed as: employing expatriates, board adverts, radio and television Jingles, souvenirs, vehicles and campaign houses etc.</div>
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"These, we assert, have been made possible by the over ₦32 billion Local Government funds for three months now diverted into the Ambode campaigns."</div>
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The party also claimed that Fashola had deployed all government property and paraphernalia to support Ambode.</div>
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Such property, according to PDP, include "BRT/Lagbus; footbridges, government offices, roads, state media outfits to mention a few.</div>
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"We are not worried that Ambode’s campaign is aggressive. It in fact suggests that the APC has nothing to be comfortable about in their governance for 16 years.</div>
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"We are, however, uncomfortable because Ambode has spent over ₦6.7 billion on his campaigns and this fund is made available by Fashola, who is now starving the Local Government Councils.</div>
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"Fashola is very unfair to Lagosians. He has abandoned governance and is now attending rallies with Ambode. Laughably, he does not see any achievement to mention at such rallies but to cast aspersions on our candidate, Jimi Agbaje. He has deployed all state advantages to support Ambode. We call on well meaning Lagosians to condemn this action."</div>
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<b>Source: <a href="http://dailypost.ng/2015/01/19/pdp-asks-inec-disqualify-ambode-excessive-campaign-spending/">Daily Post</a></b></div>

Lagos PDP Asks INEC To Disqualify Ambode Over Campaign Spendings

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Lagos State chapter, on Sunday, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disqu...

My Brother, My Sister, How Can You Vote For Jonathan? - By Emmanuel Osanedum

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It ended with Chibok.</div>
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Whatever benefit of doubt I had given <b>President Goodluck Jonathan</b>’s wobbly leadership before then completely evaporated after the daughters of Chibok went missing.</div>
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276 girls were kidnapped, and yet for 18 days our president was silent.</div>
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I was in Abuja around that time, I found out personally that his doubts were real. He felt they were his enemies at work. And because of that, my president abandoned the job we elected him to do, and let terrorists run far with 276 little girls...because of politics.</div>
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That was already an unforgivable error.</div>
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Yet, he continued in this abdication of responsibility. He not only refused to show empathy for weeks and months; he and his lieutenants went ahead to attack, demean and attempt to delegitimise ordinary citizens who only sought to step in where government had failed.</div>
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The implication was clear - this was not a president who cared deeply that little girls were missing, and that their lives were at risk.</div>
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This was a president who would choose politics over leadership, even when lives were at stake.</div>
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I could have lied to myself before then, that Dr. Jonathan was only ‘making mistakes’. After this, there was no such lie to be told. This was not what a leader looked like.</div>
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I have liked the president as a person. I am convinced that he doesn’t by himself want anyone to die. Until last week as I watched him attack Buhari for not remembering his phone number, I could even swear that this was not a man desperate for power. I have seen him forgive enemies, embrace dissent, enable free and fair elections.</div>
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As a friend or an uncle with whom one would share banter, I would accept to accept him.</div>
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But as my president? He represents the worst of our propensities as Nigerians - the sad ability to interpret casualties only as numbers and not as people, the refusal to empathize with a woman who just lost her husband but to accuse her instead of killing [the] said husband, the ability to immediately begin to fight over property when a father has died. A refusal to permit our humanity define our reflexes.</div>
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Let me borrow words from a friend: 300 girls were wasted under his watch. More than a million Nigerians have lost EVERYTHING! Thousands have died under GEJ’s watch. I watch our neighboring states defeat Boko Haram and drive them out of their territory back into Nigeria and GEJ refers to it as all politics. I LOVE my life. I love my child and my husband and our flat and car and I cannot...CANNOT imagine losing all of that. As a human being - As a human woman, only Buhari will do. My vote is not for Buhari, but it is a vote against Jonathan. It is a vote for the traumatised people of the North East.</div>
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Because I no longer have any faith that Dr. Jonathan understands what it truly means to be a leader.</div>
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This is a president who stands on television and tells me corruption can be solved by technology. A president who truly, honestly does not understand that corruption is a question of accountability, personal and public, and a network of leaders who have character. This is a leader who outsources solutions and goes to sleep. This is a leader who doesn’t understand the importance and indispensability of leadership!</div>
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And then last week it happened again. It is almost surreal to me to imagine that this has happened again. At least 150 Nigerians (according to his government) were killed in #Baga, and for 48 hours after, the president did not have the decency, empathy or sense of responsibility to say a word. For four whole days, his people focused instead on insisting the dead were not 2000, but 150. As if it matters! As if it bloody matters! And when he finally spoke about them, he was so dismissive, as if they were a distraction.</div>
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Oh, God.</div>
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This has turned out to be a president without empathy, without comprehension of scale. This is a president under whom I do not feel safe. This is a president under whom fellow citizens have lost their lives, and he has admitted he cannot protect them. Even worse, he has arrogantly defended himself, insisting that not only can he do no better, but also it is impossible to do better.</div>
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A vote for Jonathan is therefore a supremely dangerous thing.</div>
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It is a vote that permits him to continue in this fatal mediocrity. It is a vote that emboldens Boko Haram, Niger Delta militants and every and all violent elements. It is a vote that says no one can do better than what Jonathan has done. It is a vote against the people of Chibok and Baga. It is a vote to reward failure.</div>
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How elections, especially in evolving democracies like ours, are truly not decided by manifestos. Let’s tell ourselves that truth.</div>
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They are decided by character and by leadership. What is the character of the man you are voting? Has he shown the will to solve problems in the past? Has he solved problems in the past? Does he have the strength and vision to lead? Does he have the character to lead?</div>
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I believe Buhari, in the one year he headed this country, showed that he has the strength, and vision and character to lead. But more desperately, Jonathan has already shown that he does not.</div>
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He has made it clear he will not do anything when my life and yours are at stake. He has made it clear he takes the burning of his campaign bus more seriously than the deaths of 150.</div>
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I cannot vote for such a man. I cannot have blood on my hands.</div>
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I know it is your democratic right to do what you wish on February 14. And I know whatever you choose is valid and legitimate. But your choice to vote for such a man, or not to vote at all is going to affect my life, your life, the lives of your children and the lives of millions of children across Nigeria.</div>
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For all our sakes, for the sake of my unborn child and yours, please pause and think again of what you are about to do.</div>
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Please.</div>
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<b>Source: <a href="http://ynaija.com/opinion-fellow-nigerians-how-can-you-vote-for-jonathan/?utm_content=buffer0d229&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer">Y!Naija</a></b></div>

My Brother, My Sister, How Can You Vote For Jonathan? - By Emmanuel Osanedum

It ended with Chibok. Whatever benefit of doubt I had given President Goodluck Jonathan ’s wobbly leadership before then completely...

Jonathan Will Concede Defeat If He Loses - Presidency

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<b>The Presidency has assured Nigerians that if President Goodluck Jonathan loses the February 14 presidential election, he would congratulate the winner.</b></div>
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The Minister of State for Works, Dayo Adeyeye, gave the assurance last night while featuring on a <b>Channels Television</b> programme tagged <b><i>Politics Today</i></b>.</div>
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Responding to a question on whether the president would congratulate the winner of the forthcoming presidential election if he (Jonathan) loses, Adeyeye answered in the affirmative.</div>
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He said: "Of course. President, in many cases we lost governorship elections, was always the first person to congratulate the winner even when the winner is not a member of our party. So, we believe in democracy."</div>
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Asked if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) persistent attacks on Buhari implied that the party was afraid that Buhari could win next month's presidential poll, Adeyeye stressed that the PDP was not afraid of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate.</div>
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He said the Presidency was not jittery about the coming presidential election, claiming that Jonathan had performed more than any other president since 1999.</div>
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"We are not afraid of General Buhari. I believe General Buhari is the easiest person to defeat in any election. Nigeria needs a 21st century leader," he said.</div>
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According to Adeyeye, while Jonathan is a PhD holder, Buhari's secondary education is still a subject of controversy.</div>
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He said Nigerians should also feel concerned about the health status of General Buhari and that of other presidential candidates.</div>
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The minister added that Jonathan deserved to be re-elected because of his performance within the last four years.</div>

Jonathan Will Concede Defeat If He Loses - Presidency

The Presidency has assured Nigerians that if President Goodluck Jonathan loses the February 14 presidential election, he would congratu...

[Tweets]: Jonathan's Desperation Beyond My Understanding - Buhari

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<b>Before starting out on this week's campaign activities, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhammadu Buhari (Retd) took to twitter to review the past week and make comments on issues about his campaign.</b></div>
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He used the platform to call on President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP to stop the smear campaigns against him stressing that elections are not war.</div>
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Good morning, my friends. As we continue our relentless pace campaigning for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Change?src=hash">#Change</a> this week, let’s reflect on the past few weeks -GMB<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557099146457251840">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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I have become seriously disturbed by the volume of falsehood and desperation from the opposition campaign of the PDP.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557100452790018048">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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I clearly underrated the panic and lack of integrity that leads people to tell barefaced lies, and must confess, it continues to confound me<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557100601293537280">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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I have run for office before, but I have consistently done so without desperation or anger, because elections are not war.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557100782353252352">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Why should candidates tell so many frantic lies in order to win elections, if truly their purpose is to ‘transform’ the lives of our people?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557100968777498624">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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It is a tragedy to see the ruling party focus on pettiness and lies; rumours of cancer, foreign treatment, and certificates they know exist.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557101189305610241">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds, perhaps thousands of Nigerians died in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baga?src=hash">#Baga</a> days ago. Our unemployment numbers are rising.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557101409665961985">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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The businesses of our enterprising youth are being killed by lack of access to finance and poor economic policies.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557101732585418753">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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This campaign should be about those issues. It should be about today and the future; about securing Nigerian lives and Nigerian land.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557102168826593280">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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The desperation is beyond my understanding. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThingsMustChange?src=hash">#ThingsMustChange</a><br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103069625077760">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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What is this obsession with lies? What is this obsession with pettiness? What is this obsession with threats and attacks?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103146888347648">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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All of us, citizens and voters need to ask ourselves – why is our President so desperate?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103274994982912">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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How can the President of this country be talking about remembering phone numbers and coup speeches?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103371342319617">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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How can his campaign be talking about dead ex-leaders, jogging around the stadium and outright lies about my health?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103514921754624">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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How can a President who has led this country for six years be unable to run on his own record and his achievements?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557103734002831360">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Where is his fabled calm, where is his reserve, where is his composure? Why is he so ruffled? Why is he so frustrated and afraid?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557104357163139072">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We should be deeply worried that a President who called for calm during governorship elections has now lost his cool in his own elections.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557105208258342912">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Our President and his allies must remember that he is not only a candidate for office; he is the President of Nigeria.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557106035425419265">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We do not have a disinformation or propaganda wing in our campaign. We have no need to waste time in driving petty attacks.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557106127566303232">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We have not spoken about the President's family, his health, his religion, his ethnic group, or his phone number.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557106314610868224">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We are concerned only about his record – has he secured Nigeria? Has he fought corruption? Has he truly grown the economy so it can work?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557107074291597312">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Do our children find it easy to get jobs? Do our sisters and brothers find it easy to set up and sustain their businesses?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557107524038430720">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Can our president keep us safe when we travel to any part of this country? Is your life better today than it was six years ago?<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557107789256859648">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We have only presented our record – how we fought insurgencies, how we stabilised the naira, how we tackled corruption.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557107912502296576">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We have presented our vision and plans – through our manifesto (available on <a href="http://t.co/mpQkYuVlSg">http://t.co/mpQkYuVlSg</a>) and our town hall meetings.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557108056581210113">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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We are lucky to have in this election two people who have led this country. I am proud to present our record of solutions and effectiveness.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557108214677139457">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Imagine the accelerated growth we can now achieve in a democracy –which the world has seen to be the most effective way of governing nations<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557108744942014464">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Let us focus on those issues, please. Elections are not war. February 14 is not about politicians. It is about our country.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557108871475773440">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

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I am appealing to you: the damage to this country is great. The level of unemployment and insecurity is intolerable, worsened by corruption.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557109032583176192">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

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Therefore, I shall refuse to indulge the smear campaign. I refuse to allow them take away the focus from the issues that concern you.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557109251727163392">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

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We insist on a campaign of hope, change and the future. This election is about big, important issues. We refuse to play it small.<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557109479339487233">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

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<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
Join us as we continue the relentless pace of our rallies in Minna and Kaduna today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Change?src=hash">#Change</a> is finally here, my friends. - GMB<br />
— Muhammadu Buhari (@ThisIsBuhari) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari/status/557109593751711744">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

[Tweets]: Jonathan's Desperation Beyond My Understanding - Buhari

Before starting out on this week's campaign activities, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, General Muhamm...

Jonathan's Handlers Have Accepted Defeat In Kano - APC

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yquLYiTX5jTp_2CxpiGwhjMYNjGAJqXtmKPlQZWne_k_LknW8-s-tQG_jUeb7iFUus-gODBr8e5IT3vxBUsHFz5MR_0_zJxKT2FfL3ffkG7E37kn4lrjiHluZhfbaRMFl0LYE0quVvjE/s1600/Goodluck+Jonathan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yquLYiTX5jTp_2CxpiGwhjMYNjGAJqXtmKPlQZWne_k_LknW8-s-tQG_jUeb7iFUus-gODBr8e5IT3vxBUsHFz5MR_0_zJxKT2FfL3ffkG7E37kn4lrjiHluZhfbaRMFl0LYE0quVvjE/s1600/Goodluck+Jonathan3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaigners in Kano State have accepted defeat hence their failure to paste his posters and billboard in the state, a chieftain of the All Proressives Congress (APC) Engineer Atiku A. Dungurawa has said.</b></div>
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Reacting to a report tagged <b>"No Campaign Posters, Billboard of Jonathan in Kano"</b>, Dungurawa said the leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State are shying away from campaigning for the President because he is not a sell-able candidate.</div>
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"They have accepted defeat in Kano, that is why they are not campaigning for Jonathan in Kano because of the overwhelming developmental projects of the Kwankwaso-led administration in the state," Dungurawa said.</div>
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He said people of the state are yearning for change in view of the backwardness the PDP-led Federal Government has thrown the country into, reports <b><a href="http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/daily/politics/44636-jonathan-handlers-have-accepted-defeat-in-kano">Daily Trust</a></b>.</div>
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"The incompetence of the federal government forced the people of the state to yearn for change. With the adamant posture of the PDP in the state, the APC will record landslide victory in the general elections," he said.</div>
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He urged the people of the state to eschew violence during and after the general elections in order to ensure the change that they are yearning for.</div>
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"With this development, the APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari does not need to come to Kano for campaign, because the people will vote for him overwhelmingly," he said.</div>

Jonathan's Handlers Have Accepted Defeat In Kano - APC

President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaigners in Kano State have accepted defeat hence their failure to paste his posters and billboard in ...

Buhari's Certificate Equivalent To Master's Degree - Sagay

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznULSUHcbeX77yBpeSVhA2f5skrxXuQ5eq82BehxF8qB1syfRn4KJK4LEmzlc479k6JuhoPi7rnU1jYU-MoWtxggzbA7TMjqzu53KAcKYIJA-VYQTQB5BUUrvMckPrWq61tbGOOLZrU8X/s1600/Itse-Sagay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznULSUHcbeX77yBpeSVhA2f5skrxXuQ5eq82BehxF8qB1syfRn4KJK4LEmzlc479k6JuhoPi7rnU1jYU-MoWtxggzbA7TMjqzu53KAcKYIJA-VYQTQB5BUUrvMckPrWq61tbGOOLZrU8X/s1600/Itse-Sagay.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Constitutional lawyer, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), has said the academic qualification that the presidential candidate of the All Progresives Congress, APC, Maj.Gen Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) has is equivalent to a Master's degree. </b></div>
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Sagay made this known while reacting to a claim by another lawyer, Mr. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), that Buhari was not qualified to contest because of his failure to provide his certificate. </div>
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According to Sagay, it is not stated any where in the constitution that a candidate of a political party must provide his certificate, adding that Buhari attended the Military Training College in Kaduna; the Mons Officer Cadet School in the United Kingdom; and the Army War College in the United States. </div>
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He said it would have been impossible for anyone who did not have a secondary school certificate to attend such prestigious military schools. </div>
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"This whole discussion of Buhari’s qualification is a negative distraction from the legitimate process of electioneering which should involve issues, records of the candidates, their character, and their capacity to govern. These are things we should be talking about. </div>
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"The constitution is very clear on the issue of qualification. It states that you are qualified to be a President if you have achieved the level of school certificate or its equivalent. Buhari has been to Military College in Britain, he has been to colleges in India and USA, involving high level of training and intellect. </div>
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"We need to ask if participation and completion of courses at these levels and the basic officers training in Mons Officers Cadet School are less than school certificates. On the contrary, you need school certificate to attend those courses. So, if he has attended all those courses, then there is absolutely no need to be talking about secondary school certificates anymore. </div>
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"So, this man attended secondary school and we hear he was even the head boy. He has been to the Cadet School in Mons, he attended the War College in the US and was given a certificate which is equivalent to a master’s degree," Sagay said. </div>
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He added that Nigeria had become worse under the leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan despite the fact that he is the first doctorate degree holder to become the President of the country.</div>
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"If I may add, how has the PhD of the President helped this country?" he said.</div>
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<b>Source: <a href="http://www.today.ng/news/buharis-certificate-is-equivalent-to-a-masters-degree-itse-sagay/">Today</a></b></div>

Buhari's Certificate Equivalent To Master's Degree - Sagay

Constitutional lawyer, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN), has said the academic qualification that the presidential candidate of the All Progresi...

[Photos+Video]:Kaduna Residents Await Buhari/Osinbajo

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOcPua-gJxymZWma-Ij-HoM2Nds2gL_zf7wpKcgMzh7Ayj6eOxjOZk8qK-lGuHv75p7NHvmAIbb0TYwx8KclgNnLo5B6GYVsFtW8UVstF17Av72MG1b_c0lCQ267EUXdAaybGPK0O_dVS/s1600/APC+in+KD3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOcPua-gJxymZWma-Ij-HoM2Nds2gL_zf7wpKcgMzh7Ayj6eOxjOZk8qK-lGuHv75p7NHvmAIbb0TYwx8KclgNnLo5B6GYVsFtW8UVstF17Av72MG1b_c0lCQ267EUXdAaybGPK0O_dVS/s1600/APC+in+KD3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, and his campaign team are being expected in Kaduna for a campaign rally. However, the venue of the event has been jam-parked as early as 6.00 am as residents troop out in their large numbers to secure a view point.</b></div>
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These images are taken from the venue while the campaign team is in Minna soliciting for the votes of Niger State's electorate. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbeG7CgMp6fJPfkXMdFt2t4w0o0lKz3_z7xo-LNvbo-dqX7DWo4GZAsmK-kMUoxyjdqH6HxUpNWyamrmHUI2DOja2y0m6mWY7nOTSr5sJGpoDPMuGQ6vjsc-JRlehhY9q7335TG2-hUkzj/s1600/APC+in+KD4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbeG7CgMp6fJPfkXMdFt2t4w0o0lKz3_z7xo-LNvbo-dqX7DWo4GZAsmK-kMUoxyjdqH6HxUpNWyamrmHUI2DOja2y0m6mWY7nOTSr5sJGpoDPMuGQ6vjsc-JRlehhY9q7335TG2-hUkzj/s1600/APC+in+KD4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5M20w8zx1yEzzr1m9aB7KN6xhNCtqsIyYXe2jqkzvCUgMv5NIo6UFB8Q4875rANjFziLfLveML_f5X6rtMq4j2eGSAmbWx-sNMv7Jzrtb7woXA7fXX317k6nlgWiVIjAibQerLwbdhjXZ/s1600/APC+in+KD5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5M20w8zx1yEzzr1m9aB7KN6xhNCtqsIyYXe2jqkzvCUgMv5NIo6UFB8Q4875rANjFziLfLveML_f5X6rtMq4j2eGSAmbWx-sNMv7Jzrtb7woXA7fXX317k6nlgWiVIjAibQerLwbdhjXZ/s1600/APC+in+KD5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Below is a short video of how supporters and enthusiasts of the Buhari/Osinbajo ticket struggled to get a seat.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="410" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/azATcwdhYgU?feature=player_embedded" width="640"></iframe>

[Photos+Video]:Kaduna Residents Await Buhari/Osinbajo

The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari, and his campaign team are being expected in Kaduna for a campaign rally. Howe...

"Osinbajo Is My Problem", President Jonathan Cries Out

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDhTI4LXGTrg9TPZF6POr5jfZQvpBhclyUb2H9ANd3JYkKRDryRYANNJaEdf5iRaYc0aLupEh86M_AuCuzdPew25GOdEaGQvfFnNbxoah65SZNnF660QeCYVfsdb9hrhfqssmmOzFDLGJ/s1600/Oyedepo-GEJ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDhTI4LXGTrg9TPZF6POr5jfZQvpBhclyUb2H9ANd3JYkKRDryRYANNJaEdf5iRaYc0aLupEh86M_AuCuzdPew25GOdEaGQvfFnNbxoah65SZNnF660QeCYVfsdb9hrhfqssmmOzFDLGJ/s1600/Oyedepo-GEJ.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Ruffled by the momentum generated by the nomination of Pastor Yemi Osinbajo as General Mohamadu Buhari's running mate, President Goodluck Jonathan is asking a group of Pentecostal pastors to help him avert what he fears could be an impending loss in next month's presidential polls.</b></div>
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Bishop <b>David Oyedepo</b> led the Pentecostal pastors to the meeting with President <b>Goodluck Jonathan</b>.</div>
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Osinbajo, a prominent cleric with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, law professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, emerged APC's presidential running mate last month giving President Jonathan and the ruling party, PDP, what is being described as sleepless nights, by sources.</div>
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Specifically last Thursday, the President held a meeting in Abuja, with a number of Pentecostal pastors led by Bishop David Oyedepo of <b>Winners Chapel</b>, with the main agenda being how to fashion out ways to solve the "Osinbajo" problem.</div>
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Sources at the meeting confirmed that President Jonathan confessed in a rather rattled and humbling manner that "Osinbajo is my problem."</div>
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According to those at the meeting, the President added that "everything was okay until APC picked Osinbajo."</div>
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This is coming against the background of wild speculations that APC is an Islamist party and that General Buhari is a religious fundamentalist- which has become one of the main planks of the PDP presidential campaign. While PDP chieftains and supporters have continued to characterize APC as an Islamist party, APC leaders have consistently dismissed such as unfounded, baseless and a scare tactic by the PDP.</div>
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Many observers say the nomination of a prominent Pentecostal pastor from the fastest growing church in Africa by the APC may have effectively doused such speculations and the attempt to label the party as one with an islamization agenda.</div>
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There has been a rather conscious attempt to make next month's presidential polls a religious one especially in the Southern part of the country where there is a much larger Christian population, observers say.</div>
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At the meeting organized by the Executive Secretary of the National Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC) <b>John Kennedy Okpara</b>, President Jonathan poured out his mind that running against a leading Pastor of the RCCG, who is also known to be very close to the much reverred General Overseer of the church, <b>Pastor E.A. Adeboye</b>, is an uphill task.</div>
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Sources at the meeting, said Jonathan was ruffled and much distracted as he confessed to the challenge to him, of the APC naming such a person as Osinbajo as General Buhari's running mate.</div>
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In response, the Pastors led by Bishop Oyedepo assured the President at the meeting that they would, "starting from today," use every device possible including social media, the pulpit and influence peddling, to campaign in support of President Jonathan and against the Buhari-Osinbajo ticket.</div>
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Before the meeting with the President, sources said the pastors held a meeting on the same day to strategize and agree on how and what they would present  to the president.</div>
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At that pre-meeting, some Pentecostal pastors suggested that they use the opportunity of the meeting afforded by the President to express their genuine fears on growing insecurity in the North with Boko Haram killing and attacking Christians and other innocent Nigerians.</div>
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But Bishop David Oyedepo, the most influential pastor at the meeting interrupted the idea, insisting that the meeting was to encourage and strengthen President Jonathan ahead of the elections and not to discuss compelling national issues of concern to majority of Nigerians. </div>
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While some of the pastors were shocked and disappointed that Bishop Oyedepo would not allow them to raise important issues bothering most Nigerians, they decided to keep silent not to be seen as spoilsports.</div>
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And later after meeting the president, the pastors gathered together again on the same day to device strategies they will use to campaign against Buhari/Osinbajo, with the main scheme being to label the ticket as an Islamist one.</div>
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Some of the pastors also suggested that they can influence Christians that the position of Vice President is not an effective one, and that having a Christian hold it makes no difference, although the Nigerian constitution and the order of precedence makes the office the next in rank to the president.</div>
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Indeed as if carrying out the resolve, members of the Winners Chapel said Bishop Oyedepo has already started using the pulpit to achieve the goals set out at last Thursday meeting in Abuja.</div>
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Some of the members said yesterday Sunday January 18, Bishop Oyedepo raised a prayer point that an Islamist would not become the President of Nigeria in the polls coming next month to the chagrin of many of the church attendants on Sunday.</div>
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<b>Source: Empowered Newswire</b></div>

"Osinbajo Is My Problem", President Jonathan Cries Out

Ruffled by the momentum generated by the nomination of Pastor Yemi Osinbajo as General Mohamadu Buhari's running mate, President Go...

Panic Grips PDP Over Feb Polls As Leaders Meet President Secretly

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_-FzYl1cPa9yx33HEixkjC8Difel8f7AFJTOjMQmZi4vTRXhkNQSn1mRGbmO4MutRQEgdYsLkhZ1H-ApbHb0frW3J5vxkkaNUMjZd3jZJXShg7HmZNJxRnO7z60J8Z0Ty2ko4p6ykYdY/s1600/PDP-BOT-MEETIG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_-FzYl1cPa9yx33HEixkjC8Difel8f7AFJTOjMQmZi4vTRXhkNQSn1mRGbmO4MutRQEgdYsLkhZ1H-ApbHb0frW3J5vxkkaNUMjZd3jZJXShg7HmZNJxRnO7z60J8Z0Ty2ko4p6ykYdY/s1600/PDP-BOT-MEETIG.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Less than one month to the February 14 presidential election, panic has enveloped the camp of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), following the the dwindling fortunes of the party across the federation.</b></div>
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According to a reliable source, the leaders of the party have become worrisome over the gale of defection rocking the party across the country as well as the "lacklustre response the party has been getting since the beginning of the ongoing presidential campaign of President Goodluck Jonathan."</div>
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To review the development, the party leaders held a closed door meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan at the <b>Legacy House</b> in Abuja on Sunday.</div>
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The meeting which was described as a "family affair", it was learnt examined the circumstances that led to the defection of some members of the party in Plateau State, <b><a href="http://nigerianewsroom.blogspot.com/2015/01/pauline-tallen-others-dump-pdp-for-apc.html">led by a former Deputy Governor, Mrs. Pauline Tallen and many others to the APC</a></b>.</div>
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It was also learnt that the President and the party leaders were not comfortable with the support the opposition, <b>All Progressives Congress</b> was getting across the country, especially from those leaving the ruling party.</div>
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A source at the meeting said the party is jittery over what may become the fate of its presidential aspirant in the 2015 election judging from the support the opposition has received from its campaign in the south.</div>
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"You know that we have usually taken each presidential election as a done deal since 1999," the source said.</div>
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He added that, "But now, things have changed. With what we have seen so far from the tours of the southern part of country, we need to work harder to win."</div>

Panic Grips PDP Over Feb Polls As Leaders Meet President Secretly

Less than one month to the February 14 presidential election, panic has enveloped the camp of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), follo...

[Just In] APC Camapign Team Pay Homage To IBB In Minna

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_CqYVWBPyhpI9SGabJaU38HAAGWmVi-yICddpRu22jk9ZkminpJiwv6U_Q6p-IT3bhAqVlBvPJVrR8jVv4DB7sLkH8YIhcjzrYKOeKbxbz7tEOq1GMup1n422bh17hKIN1m1ROs1-gTA/s1600/APC+in+Minna0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_CqYVWBPyhpI9SGabJaU38HAAGWmVi-yICddpRu22jk9ZkminpJiwv6U_Q6p-IT3bhAqVlBvPJVrR8jVv4DB7sLkH8YIhcjzrYKOeKbxbz7tEOq1GMup1n422bh17hKIN1m1ROs1-gTA/s1600/APC+in+Minna0.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>The presidential campaign train of the opposition APC has arrived in Minna, the Niger State capital. The team comprising of the leadership of the party was received by the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Ibeto who announced earlier today that he, alongside his supporters and some 200 other notable Niger politicians, had dumped the PDP and declared for the APC.</b></div>
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The team has visited former military President <b>Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida</b>, <b>IBB</b>, at his Hilltop mansion in Minna.</div>
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Details of the visit coming up shortly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Y8tvom-mlO7yYAi03C_rxrL0jXKA7saTmno12hHJLt8hC0j-hKGfp-wGMavy1ZNDRA149BKVXTjylh2oPgfe1G2QTpKWipcvQXi0HKEsNw1qDuqdiyeAj6gFPfYsOvx9ZzG6sWCyYMAP/s1600/APC+in+Minna2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Y8tvom-mlO7yYAi03C_rxrL0jXKA7saTmno12hHJLt8hC0j-hKGfp-wGMavy1ZNDRA149BKVXTjylh2oPgfe1G2QTpKWipcvQXi0HKEsNw1qDuqdiyeAj6gFPfYsOvx9ZzG6sWCyYMAP/s1600/APC+in+Minna2.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Just In] APC Camapign Team Pay Homage To IBB In Minna

The presidential campaign train of the opposition APC has arrived in Minna, the Niger State capital. The team comprising of the leadersh...

Outrage, Condemnations Trail Fayose's Death Wish Ad On Buhari

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMtoEn6TSZiiZV5aaAQvx3-0tLz9PkCgsqnvNJyUx9n6quXuLjcxyTHhryrF1791Ynmmy8Nmy_0xngK85s7IuFobxZ7kRzC87wJyeuuhyphenhyphenUDfn53qAtza1ofdUQD_VeId37g_GH4NEIoEE/s1600/Fayose+Ad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMtoEn6TSZiiZV5aaAQvx3-0tLz9PkCgsqnvNJyUx9n6quXuLjcxyTHhryrF1791Ynmmy8Nmy_0xngK85s7IuFobxZ7kRzC87wJyeuuhyphenhyphenUDfn53qAtza1ofdUQD_VeId37g_GH4NEIoEE/s1600/Fayose+Ad.JPG" /></a></div>
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<b>A front page death wish advert for All Progressives Congress' Presidential Candidate Muhammadu Buhari by Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose has sparked criticism online.</b></div>
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Publisher of <b>Ovation</b>, <b>Dele Momodu</b> tweeted:</div>
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<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
This Fayose ad has done monumental damage to the Jonathan campaign; it is the last straw to PDP's campaign of calumny against BUHARI.<br />
— Dele Momodu (@DeleMomodu) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeleMomodu/status/557154662596771841">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
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Moji Rhodes, in her tweet, sees the ad as disgraceful<br />
<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
This is PDPs campaign. Disgraceful.."<a href="https://twitter.com/ToksAfikuyomi">@ToksAfikuyomi</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/DeleMomodu">@DeleMomodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ogundamisi">@ogundamisi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aonanuga1956">@aonanuga1956</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/omojuwa">@omojuwa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/speaklagos">@speaklagos</a> <a href="http://t.co/rBrHkozw5t">pic.twitter.com/rBrHkozw5t</a>"<br />
— Moji Rhodes #GMB15 (@speaklagos) <a href="https://twitter.com/speaklagos/status/557148616478183424">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
Another twitter user, Ayọ̀kúnlé Ọdékúnlé ‏tweeted</div>
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<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
But Fayose messed up sha.<br />
— Ayọ̀kúnlé Ọdékúnlé (@Oddy4real) <a href="https://twitter.com/Oddy4real/status/557150226554036224">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
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Blossom Nnodim scolded Ayo Fayose as well as The Punch for accepting such an ad </div>
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<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
Fayose's utterances are regrettable. The platform that showcased same are equally to blame.<br />
— Blossom Nnodim ™ (@blossomnnodim) <a href="https://twitter.com/blossomnnodim/status/557134516687732736">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
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Toyan Adeniji-Adele, however, advised Buhari supporters not to resort to violence as this may be the intention of Fayose</div>
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<blockquote align="center" class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
I kinda suspect that Fayose is deliberately trying to incite violence <a href="https://twitter.com/ThisIsBuhari">@ThisIsBuhari</a>'s supporters must ignore these gimmicks<br />
— Toyan Adeniji-Adele (@adetoyan) <a href="https://twitter.com/adetoyan/status/557174307462590464">January 19, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script></div>
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Fayose's name is now trending on twitter with most of the comments criticising the death wish advert for General Muhammadu Buhari.<br />
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The death wish advert placed Buhari's picture alongside former Heads of State from the north west who died in power, asking "will you  allow history to repeat itsself?"<br />
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It then urged Nigerians to vote for Goodluck Jonathan saying northern presidency should wait till 2019.</div>

Outrage, Condemnations Trail Fayose's Death Wish Ad On Buhari

A front page death wish advert for All Progressives Congress' Presidential Candidate Muhammadu Buhari by Ekiti State Governor, Ayo F...

We Will Not Allow Opposition To Rig Us Out - Mark

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<b>Senate President, David Mark on Sunday said that the opponents of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) plans to rig next month’s general election but the PDP would not allow such to happen.</b></div>
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Mark, who spoke in Abuja, charged PDP faithful to work hard in order to guarantee victory at the various stages of the elections.</div>
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"We want to win convincingly at all levels. There will be no room for any manipulation. We as members of the PDP will not rig. We will not allow opposition parties to rig us out. We have enough evidence to show to the electorate why the PDP remain the preferred choice in 2015."</div>
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While addressing supporters of the party from states in North Central including Benue, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, said that anyone or party that is planning electoral malpractices needed to think twice because "we are committed to free, fair, credible and acceptable elections."</div>
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He asked PDP supporters not to take anything for granted, adding that they need to strategise and reach out to the electorate ahead of the polls, <b><a href="http://www.tribune.com.ng/news/top-stories/item/27099-there-will-be-no-room-for-rigging-mark">Nigerian Tribune</a></b> reports.</div>
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Mark acknowledged the challenges posed by the opposition parties but expressed optimism that PDP has lived up to its billings in terms of delivery of dividends of democracy to Nigerians, adding that the record of performance is an indication that the PDP would do more if given another mandate.</div>
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He listed the reasons that justify the return of PDP to power at the centre to include the return of the railway transport services, improved road networks, modernised airports, agriculture and rural development, enhanced power supply, political stability, adherence to the principles of rule of law and human rights as well as freedom of expression under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.</div>

We Will Not Allow Opposition To Rig Us Out - Mark

Senate President, David Mark on Sunday said that the opponents of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) plans to rig next month’s general ...

Stop Attacking Obasanjo, Buhari, Ekiti Elders' Chief Cautions Fayose

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<b>A chieftain of the Ekiti Council of Elders, Dr. Bayo Orire, has criticized Governor Ayo Fayose's claim that the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari is suffering from health challenges which might hamper his capacity to function as President if elected.</b></div>
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Fayose had alleged during last Tuesday’s presidential campaign rally of President Goodluck Jonathan in Ado-Ekiti that Buhari looked sickly and was deliberately planted as opposition presidential candidate to re-enact the crisis that trailed the uncertainty of the health status of the late former President Umaru Yar’Adua.</div>
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But Orire, who is a medical doctor, lampooned Fayose for making what he called "unguarded clinical assumption" against Buhari’s health advising the governor to face the task of governance and convincing the electorate in Ekiti of the worth of the candidate paraded by his party.</div>
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The former Chairman of Ekiti State Hospitals Management Board who spoke with reporters on Sunday berated the governor for his unrelenting attacks on the person of former President Olusegun Obasanjo advising the Ekiti chief executive to settle any issue with the retired general amicably rather than attacks on the soap box.</div>
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He argued that "a well-cultured Yoruba man does not abuse elders recklessly" saying it is only a politician that is bereft of ideas that will leave issues and be attacking personalities.</div>
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Orire, who is also the Publicity Secretary of the APC Elders' Forum in the state said Nigerians are tired of the PDP stranglehold on power for 16 years at the centre and are determined to use the opportunity of next month’s general elections to effect a change.</div>

Stop Attacking Obasanjo, Buhari, Ekiti Elders' Chief Cautions Fayose

A chieftain of the Ekiti Council of Elders, Dr. Bayo Orire, has criticized Governor Ayo Fayose's claim that the All Progressives Co...

I Will Complete Amosun's Projects - Isiaka

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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, has assured residents and indigenes of the State that all projects being embarked on by the present administration in the State will be completed by him, if elected into office.</b></div>
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He, however, disclosed that local contents of the projects would be increased as his government would engage many local contractors to reduce 'capital flight' from the State.</div>
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He also promised that the dream of the State to have a cargo airport would be achieved, saying that he's already working with the Federal Government to ensure that one out of seven proposed cargo airports is cited in the state.</div>
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Isiaka, made the pledge on Saturday at the <b>Ake palace</b>, before the Council of Obas in Egbaland, where he received their royal blessing on his ambition to govern the state.</div>
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Accompanied by the state party Chairman, Mr <b>Bayo Dayo</b>; former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, <b>Salmot Badru</b> and the Ogun Central senatorial candidate, Mrs <b>Bisola Sodipo-Clark</b>, Isiaka eulogised the role played by the Egbas in the political evolution of the state, while appreciating the robust relationship between Egba and Yewa.</div>
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Isiaka, who also promised to develop the rural areas, said towns and villages outside major cities have been neglected by the outgoing government, noting that economic and commercial activities in these rural communities have been crippled.</div>
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He said, "The state, under my watch will set up Border Towns Development Authority to fast track the development of these areas that have been criminally neglected by the present administration.</div>
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"Responding, the Alake of Egbaland, <b>Oba Aremu Gbadebo</b> thanked Isiaka for his laudable vision and plans for Ogun State.</div>
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He said, "I thank you for your wisdom and good intentions. We have watched you for the past few years and observed how consistent you are and by the special grace of God, you shall get there."</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Akarigbo of Remoland, <b>Oba Michael Sonariwo</b>, also at the event, advised Isiaka to remain focused and let people be at the centre of his policies, if elected as governor of the state.</div>
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Oba Sonarinwo said he had no doubt that Isiaka got all attributes that will make him excel as the governor of the state and advised him not to let down those who put their trust in his ambition.</div>

I Will Complete Amosun's Projects - Isiaka

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Prince Gboyega Isiaka, has assured residents and indige...

Dad Faces Jail After Giving Cannabis Oil To Dying Daughter

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<b>A father in Australia is facing jail after he gave medicinal cannabis oil to his dying daughter to ease her pain.</b></div>
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<b>Adam Koessler</b> was charged earlier this month after giving the oil to two-year-old <b>Rumer Rose</b>, in a bid to treat her advanced <i>neuroblastoma</i> – a nerve tissue based cancer which has left the toddler with just a 50 percent chance of survival.</div>
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Speaking to the <b>Newcastle Herald</b>, Mr Koessler, from Cairns, explained how his daughter showed considerable signs of improvement after the oil was mixed with coconut.</div>
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He said: "Her cancer-ridden little body was alive again - Rumer had almost instant quality of life.</div>
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"She would say 'Daddy, tummy's not sore' and she would be able to eat like a champion and began to gain weight.</div>
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"Her energy was up and she wanted to go outside with me instead of lay on her back with her legs curled up.</div>
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"Her skin colour came back, her eyes were sparkling again and we just looked at each other in complete amazement."</div>
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However, Mr Koessler was arrested on January 2 after travelling to Brisbane, where he met with his daughter's oncologist.</div>
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He has been charged with supplying dangerous drugs to a person under 16 and possession of dangerous drugs, and will appear in court on Tuesday.</div>
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According to <b><a href="http://metro.co.uk/2015/01/18/dad-faces-jail-after-giving-cannabis-oil-to-dying-daughter-5026686/">Metro UK</a></b>, his bail conditions now mean that he is not allowed to contact his daughter, who is currently in intensive care, following seizures after she stopped taking the cannabis oil.</div>
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In the wake of Mr Koessler’s arrest, a petition has been launched on <b><a href="http://change.org/">change.org</a></b>, calling for Justice Minister <b>Jarrod Bleijie</b> and Queensland Premier <b>Campbell Newman</b> to intervene in the case.</div>
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The petition reads: "It is inhumane and unjust to keep a parent, who acted out of love for his child, wanting to prolong her life, away from her during such severe illness.</div>
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"Aside from the excruciating cruelty of eliminating his parental rights set down on his bail conditions, this decision is contrary to what is already known and well documented with respect to the benefits of medical grade cannabis oil.</div>
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"Adam Koessler deserves to have his parental rights to see his child reinstated, the charges against him dismissed by a court, and the right to decide the treatment options for his own child."</div>
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More than 30,000 people have signed the petition, while the same amount have supported a Facebook campaign that aims to draw attention to the Koesslers’ desperate situation.</div>
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A Facebook message from the group, posted yesterday, reads:  <i>"To our little angel Rumer Rose. We know your Daddy can't be with you now but the world is on his side. Everyone is sending you healing energy and willing for your Daddy to see you soon.  Hold on little girl. You must be a very special gift to this world.</i></div>
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<i>"Little do you know, that because of you, tens of thousands of people’s lives might be changed for the better."</i></div>

Dad Faces Jail After Giving Cannabis Oil To Dying Daughter

A father in Australia is facing jail after he gave medicinal cannabis oil to his dying daughter to ease her pain. Adam Koessler wa...

Goodluck: Where Are You? - By Hafsat Abiola-Costello

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Dear President,</div>
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On behalf of all of the signatories below, I will like to express our deep concern about the recent situations in Nigeria.</div>
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In the last weeks, extremists killed innocent people in an attack that was unprecedented in its impact. No, I am not speaking of the tragic shootings at the offices of French magazine, Charlie Hebdo, where militant extremists killed 12 people but I am speaking of Baga, a small town in Borno State in Nigeria, our country, where Boko Haram, another group of militant extremists, massacred up to 2000 innocent people.</div>
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What is stunning about the two incidents is that while the world rose to condemn the killings in Paris, the massacre in Baga, the most deadly so far in Boko Haram’s four-year insurgency, has been largely greeted by silence. Most disturbing still for us, is that while Nigeria’s President was able to send a message to France condemning the killings, he has yet to address the Nigerian people who look to him for leadership.</div>
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What can account for the silence of President Goodluck Jonathan on the Baga massacre? Unfortunately, it would not be the first time. It was 40 days after the abduction of the schoolgirls in Chibok before our President addressed the country about the incident. In the intervening weeks, it seemed that there was a question in the government about whether the abduction actually took place.</div>
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The delay has been tragic in its impact: of the 276 girls abducted, the 52 who have since secured their freedom escaped on their own. The rest are still in captivity, still waiting to be rescued, 276 days after the abduction took place.</div>
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Connecting the abduction of the Chibok girls to the Baga massacre, one wonders if there could be some question about whether the Baga massacre occurred? Amnesty International’s report confirmed that the attack took place and that “up to 2000 people may have been killed.” It seems that the army is contesting the numbers, suggesting that it was 150 people that were killed.</div>
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Whether 150 or 2000, it would be important to hear from the government on its efforts to secure the North-East zone, to bear witness to the loss of lives in Baga. Instead, there is a deafening silence. We have seen a case of clear incompetence in handling matters. In the context of existing ethnic and religious fault lines, silence only communicates the impression that Nigeria’s government does not care about the victims and is not dealing with the insurgency.</div>
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Ultimately, the real problem is the seeming inability of the international community to maintain pressure on a government that seems ambivalent about fulfilling its constitutional role of securing the lives and properties of its citizens. You, as our president, after all have a responsibility to speak out.</div>
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As 1.5 million Nigerians flee their homes, swelling camps within Nigeria and overwhelming border communities in neighbouring countries, perhaps, the only hope for effective pressure on the Nigerian state is global outcry for the state to act. It was such global outcry that finally forced the President to address the nation and the world 40 days after the April 2014 Chibok abductions. It was the said outcry that caused Nigeria’s government to reach out to other countries and, with the help of France and the United Kingdom, agree a plan for a regional security force to secure porous borders between Nigeria, Niger and Chad which unsecured enable Boko Haram to move around the four countries with ease.</div>
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Perhaps, had that global focus on the crisis been sustained, the multi-regional force would have been based in Baga as had been planned. Perhaps, they would have been enough to repel Boko Haram when the sect attacked on January 3. Perhaps, 2000 lives could have been saved.</div>
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But the ISIS happened. And in the way that things do, the world moved on. The agreed regional force was not at the base in Baga, leaving a small national military unit standing between thousands of armed militants and a town of 10,000 people.</div>
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Not surprisingly, the insurgents quickly routed the Nigerian Army unit stationed at the base. And up to 2000 people died. Two thousand people, mainly women, children and aged, who could not flee quickly enough, are dead.</div>
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Their bodies are still strewn around the forest and river where they died. If their deaths do not gain the world’s attention, do not generate the outcry and actions that they should, we only prepare the ground for more killings and abductions. We can put a stop to these unnecessary killings, Mr President. We can!!</div>
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We can bring back our girls and boys who have been abducted by Boko Haram. But first we must decide if the lives of people in Nigeria matter or not.</div>
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Break the silence, Mr, President. Call for global attention and support to avert a crisis that begins to echo the early days of the Rwandan genocide. The world said “Never again,” then. Remind them of their pledge and be the voice for the thousands of innocent people who have died and the millions who yearn for peace to rebuild their communities and to claim their place in the unfolding rise of the continent.</div>
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<b>Abiola-Costello is the Founder/President Kudirat Initiative for Nigeria Democracy [KIND]</b></div>
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<b>Co-Signatories</b></div>
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<b><i>Arnaud Vent nbhgfura, France; Bjarte Reve, Norway; Binta Niambi Brown, USA; Erik Charas, Mozambique; Funmi Iyanda, Nigeria; Georgie Bernadette, USA; Jacqueline Musiitwa, Zambia; Loulwa Bakr, Saudi Arabia; Leo Shlesinger, Chile; Marieme Jamme, Senegal; Mark Turrell, Germany; Rossana Figuera, USA; Salim Amin, Kenya; Soulaima Gourani, Denmark; Susan Mashibe, Tanzania; Tara Fela Durotoye, Nigeria.</i></b></div>

Goodluck: Where Are You? - By Hafsat Abiola-Costello

Dear President, On behalf of all of the signatories below, I will like to express our deep concern about the recent situations in N...