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Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria: A Journey of Progress and Challenges

Published

2 years ago

on

Auwal Yunusa

Introduction:

Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is a country that has experienced both the trials of military dictatorship and the triumphs of democracy. Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has undergone a significant transformation in its political landscape, marked by transitions between military rule and civilian governance. Today, democracy stands as a cornerstone of Nigerian society, empowering its citizens and promising a brighter future. However, the nation’s democratic journey has not been without obstacles and challenges.

The Struggle for Democracy:

For many years, Nigeria grappled with military coups, oppressive regimes, and the stifling of civil liberties. The Nigerian people yearned for freedom, equal representation, and the opportunity to shape their own destiny. The turning point came in 1999 when Nigeria made a historic transition from military rule to democracy. This marked a crucial milestone as Olusegun Obasanjo was inaugurated as the country’s first civilian president in over 15 years. The birth of the Fourth Republic signified a new era of hope, accountability, and democratic governance.

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Progress and Achievements:

Since the advent of democracy, Nigeria has made commendable progress in various aspects of governance. Key achievements include the consolidation of democratic institutions, the promotion of fundamental rights and freedoms, and the fostering of a vibrant civil society. The country has witnessed successful presidential and parliamentary elections, showcasing a growing culture of electoral transparency and participation. Furthermore, Nigeria has seen a vibrant media landscape that enables citizens to express their opinions freely and hold those in power accountable.

Challenges and Room for Improvement:

While Nigeria has made significant strides in its democratic journey, there are pressing challenges that must be addressed to ensure a stronger and more inclusive democracy. Corruption remains a persistent issue, impeding progress and eroding public trust. Economic inequality, ethno-religious tensions, and security threats also pose significant challenges to the country’s democratic fabric. Additionally, the need for electoral reforms, the promotion of gender equality, and the enhancement of youth participation in governance are areas that demand attention.

Promoting Democratic Values:

To strengthen democracy in Nigeria, it is imperative to focus on a few key areas. First and foremost, the government must prioritize good governance, transparency, and accountability at all levels. Political leaders must lead by example and ensure that institutions are strengthened to effectively combat corruption and promote the rule of law. Additionally, fostering an environment that encourages the active participation of citizens, especially marginalized groups, will lead to more representative decision-making processes.

Education and civic engagement play pivotal roles in shaping the future of democracy in Nigeria. By investing in quality education and civic programs, the government can empower citizens with knowledge of their rights, responsibilities, and the mechanisms of democratic participation. Embracing technology and leveraging social media platforms can also foster greater citizen engagement and participation in governance.
Democracy in Nigeria has come a long way since the dark days of military rule. It has provided a platform for the Nigerian people to express their voices, choose their leaders, and participate in the decision-making processes that shape their lives. While challenges persist, the Nigerian government and its citizens must work together to build on the progress achieved, address the existing shortcomings, and strengthen democratic institutions.

Democracy is a continuous journey, one that requires the commitment and active participation of all stakeholders. By nurturing a culture of transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and respect for the rule of law, Nigeria can build a stronger and more resilient democracy that serves the aspirations and needs of its diverse population. The challenges may be formidable, but with determination, Nigeria can move closer to its vision of a prosperous, united, and democratic nation.
Civic society and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in promoting and strengthening democracy in Nigeria. On Democracy Day, these organizations can undertake several meaningful activities to engage citizens, raise awareness, and advocate for democratic values. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Civic Education Workshops: Organize workshops and seminars aimed at educating citizens about their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of democratic participation. These sessions can cover topics such as voter education, the electoral process, human rights, and the role of citizens in holding elected officials accountable.

2. Voter Registration Drives: Conduct voter registration drives to ensure that eligible citizens are registered to vote. This activity is particularly important in reaching out to marginalized communities and encouraging their active participation in the democratic process.

3. Advocacy Campaigns: Launch advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about critical democratic issues and advocate for reforms. These campaigns can focus on topics such as electoral reforms, anti-corruption measures, gender equality, youth inclusion, and the protection of civil liberties.

4. Public Discussions and Debates: Organize public discussions and debates on democracy-related topics, inviting experts, policymakers, and citizens to participate. These platforms provide an opportunity for informed dialogue, the exchange of ideas, and the exploration of solutions to challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy.

5. Community Outreach Programs: Engage with local communities through outreach programs that aim to educate and empower citizens. This can involve grassroots activities such as town hall meetings, community dialogues, and door-to-door campaigns to encourage active civic participation and discuss community-specific concerns.

6. Media Engagement: Utilize various media platforms to disseminate information, promote democratic values, and amplify the voices of citizens. This can include publishing articles, organizing radio or television talk shows, and leveraging social media campaigns to reach a broader audience.

7. Monitoring and Observation: Deploy trained volunteers to monitor elections and observe the electoral process to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability. This helps to promote free and fair elections and contributes to building public trust in the democratic system.

8. Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with other civic society organizations, NGOs, and government institutions to maximize impact and leverage collective resources. By working together, these organizations can share knowledge, pool expertise, and strengthen their advocacy efforts.

9. Celebratory Events: Organize events and activities that celebrate Democracy Day, highlighting the achievements and milestones of Nigeria’s democratic journey. These events can include cultural performances, exhibitions, art displays, and public gatherings that foster a sense of unity, pride, and civic engagement.

10. Policy Recommendations: Conduct research and develop policy recommendations on democratic reforms that address the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. Advocate for these recommendations to be considered and implemented by relevant authorities, ensuring that they reflect the aspirations and concerns of Nigerian citize
However Citizens of Nigeria have a vital role to play in strengthening democracy. Here are some ways in which they can actively contribute:

1. Exercise the Right to Vote: Participate in elections by registering to vote and casting their ballots. Voting is a fundamental democratic right and a powerful way for citizens to express their preferences and shape the future of their country.

2. Engage in Civic Education: Take the initiative to educate themselves about democratic processes, institutions, and issues. This includes understanding the electoral system, political parties, and the responsibilities of elected officials. By staying informed, citizens can make more informed choices and actively participate in the democratic process.

3. Hold Elected Officials Accountable: Citizens should monitor the performance of elected officials and hold them accountable for their actions or lack thereof. This can be done through constructive criticism, public feedback, and active engagement with elected representatives. By demanding transparency, responsiveness, and good governance, citizens can help ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

4. Join Civil Society Organizations and NGOs: Citizens can become active members of civil society organizations and NGOs that work towards promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance. By actively participating in these organizations, citizens can contribute their skills, knowledge, and energy towards advocating for positive change.

5. Promote Peaceful Dialogue and Debate: Engage in constructive discussions and debates on democratic issues with fellow citizens, neighbors, and community members. Encourage respectful dialogue, listen to diverse perspectives, and seek common ground to address challenges and find solutions together.

6. Report Corruption and Electoral Malpractices: Citizens should report any instances of corruption or electoral malpractices they witness to the appropriate authorities or anti-corruption agencies. By taking a stand against corruption and promoting electoral integrity, citizens can help build a more transparent and accountable democratic system.

7. Engage in Community Development: Active participation in community development projects and initiatives can contribute to the overall well-being of society. Citizens can collaborate with others to address local issues, promote social cohesion, and foster inclusive development.

8. Respect for Rule of Law: Uphold the principles of the rule of law and respect for institutions. Citizens should abide by laws, regulations, and court decisions, as well as support the independence of the judiciary. This promotes stability, fairness, and justice within the democratic framework.

9. Encourage Youth Involvement: Recognize the importance of youth participation in democracy and encourage young people to engage actively in political processes. Support initiatives that promote youth leadership, political education, and the inclusion of young voices in decision-making.

10. Peaceful Protests and Advocacy: Exercise the right to peaceful protest and advocacy to raise awareness about issues of concern and advocate for positive change. Citizens can come together to organize peaceful demonstrations, campaigns, or public awareness events that highlight democratic values and call for reforms.
Government officials, both elected and appointed, have a crucial role to play in upholding and promoting democracy. Here are some ways in which they can contribute to strengthening democracy in Nigeria:

1. Commitment to Good Governance: Government officials should prioritize good governance, transparency, and accountability in their roles. They should lead by example and demonstrate integrity, ethical conduct, and a commitment to serving the best interests of the Nigerian people.

2. Uphold the Rule of Law: Officials should respect and uphold the rule of law, ensuring that all citizens are treated equally and that justice is administered fairly. They should work towards strengthening the independence and efficiency of the judiciary and supporting reforms that enhance access to justice for all Nigerians.

3. Promote Inclusivity and Diversity: Government officials should embrace and promote inclusivity, recognizing and respecting the diversity of the Nigerian population. They should ensure that all citizens, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion, or socioeconomic background, have equal opportunities to participate in the democratic process and benefit from government policies and programs.

4. Foster Civic Participation: Officials should create an enabling environment for civic participation and engage with citizens regularly. This includes organizing town hall meetings, public consultations, and platforms for dialogue to gather feedback, listen to concerns, and address the needs and aspirations of the people they serve.

5. Ensure Free and Fair Elections: Elected officials, particularly those in charge of electoral processes, should ensure that elections are free, fair, and transparent. They should support electoral reforms, strengthen electoral institutions, and create a level playing field for all political parties and candidates. This includes safeguarding voter rights, preventing voter suppression, and addressing any electoral malpractices promptly and impartially.

6. Fight Corruption: Government officials should actively combat corruption at all levels. They should implement effective anti-corruption measures, strengthen anti-corruption agencies, and promote transparency and accountability in public administration. By leading by example and fostering a culture of integrity, officials can help restore public trust and confidence in government institutions.

7. Empower Civil Society Organizations: Government officials should recognize and support the vital role played by civil society organizations (CSOs) and NGOs in promoting democracy. They should create an enabling environment for these organizations to operate freely, collaborate with them on key issues, and consider their input in policy-making processes.

8. Enhance Service Delivery: Officials should strive to improve service delivery and ensure that government programs and policies effectively meet the needs of the people. This includes prioritizing essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs. Regular assessment and evaluation of government initiatives can help identify areas for improvement and ensure efficient resource allocation.

9. Continuous Learning and Capacity Building: Government officials should invest in their own personal and professional development. They should seek opportunities for continuous learning, stay updated on democratic principles and best practices, and enhance their skills to better serve the Nigerian people.

10. Collaboration and Dialogue: Officials should foster collaboration and dialogue with all stakeholders, including citizens, civil society, and other branches of government. By promoting a spirit of cooperation and inclusivity, officials can work together towards shared goals and address challenges more effectively.

In conclusion, the strength and vitality of democracy in Nigeria depend on the collective efforts of various stakeholders. Civic society organizations, non-governmental organizations, citizens, and government officials all have essential roles to play in promoting and strengthening democracy.

Civic society organizations and NGOs are instrumental in raising awareness, advocating for democratic values, and holding those in power accountable. Their activities, ranging from civic education and voter registration drives to advocacy campaigns and community outreach, empower citizens and foster an engaged and informed citizenry.

Citizens themselves are the heart of democracy. By exercising their right to vote, engaging in civic education, holding elected officials accountable, and actively participating in community development, citizens can shape the democratic landscape and ensure their voices are heard.

Government officials, whether elected or appointed, bear the responsibility of upholding democratic principles and serving the best interests of the people. By prioritizing good governance, upholding the rule of law, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and fostering civic participation, government officials can build a more transparent, accountable, and responsive democratic system.

In the collective efforts of these various stakeholders lies the true strength of Nigerian democracy. By working together, they can address challenges such as corruption, electoral malpractices, economic inequality, and social tensions. Through collaboration, dialogue, and a commitment to democratic values, Nigeria can continue its journey towards a more vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous democratic nation.

Democracy is not a static concept but a continuous process of growth, adaptation, and improvement. It requires the sustained engagement and commitment of all stakeholders to ensure that democratic ideals are upheld, institutions are strengthened, and the voices of all Nigerians are heard and valued.

As Nigeria moves forward, let us remember that the success of democracy rests in our collective hands. By embracing our roles as active citizens, supportive institutions, and responsible leaders, we can contribute to the building of a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous democratic Nigeria. Together, we can create a nation where democratic values thrive, freedoms are protected, and every citizen has the opportunity to participate and prosper.

Auwal Yunusa
Technical officer
celohaNigeria

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My advice to Yobe people, as we inch towards 2027 general elections

Published

3 hours ago

on

April 30, 2025

By

 

As a concerned member and citizen of Yobe state, I owe it a duty upon myself to make this submission. We have seen the good, the bad and the ugly in the state in terms of leadership and as such we have every reason to thank God. No doubt 2027 is an opportunity for us to search and compel people with Yobe interest at heart, people whose main concern is the plight of the common citizen of Yobe state, people who are willing to make several sacrifices in ensuring Yobe state flourished as a state.

I know, I have no right to compel or impose a candidate on the people of Yobe state, but I believe I have the right to suggest and support any candidate whose intent and track records have shown that he is for the development of Yobe state. I belong to a progressive youth’s group in Yobe state and recently, I have been hearing a lot of good news about a particular individual and this made me ask, who is this individual that sounds too good to be real?

I was told that he is none other than Hon. Jibir Maigari, the Federal Commissioner representing Yobe State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC).

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I became interested in knowing more on this personality and I discovered that he was a former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs during the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, he was also a Federal Commissioner who had earned himself the name “Baba Mai Gonar Offer” for his notable efforts in securing federal job placements for the youths in Yobe state.

It took me months and some days investigating the good records of this honorable personality; I became convinced that he is the right person to keep Yobe state on the right track.

However, I would like to state here that, he should be aware that in the politics of Yobe State today, politicians of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have been categorized into two: the new APC and the old APC.

Balancing between the two will be a Herculean task, but which must be accomplished if any meaningful progress is to take place in the long run. Moreover, it is very vital to note that Governor Mai Mala Buni played a pivotal role in his emergence as Federal Commissioner and in the progress made toward enhancing opportunities for the people of Yobe.

Personally, I have done my work in interrogating the eligibility of Maigari, and I am convinced that if we join hands together and wok towards the victory of APC in 2027, Yobe state will surely become the talk of North East

Hashim Ibrahim Gashua wrote from Yobe state.

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Kano 2027 Projection : APC Chances, Intrigues and Realistic Reality

Published

2 months ago

on

February 15, 2025

By

Governor Ganduje
Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje,APC National Chairman

 

By Abba Anwar

As breakthroughs are unfolding in Kano politics, specifically within All Progressives Congress (APC), before one can correctly assess and conclude the fate of the party (APC) in 2027, there are factors that must be taken into consideration.

The factors, according to my understanding of the situation are as follows:

1. National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje factor,
2. Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin factor,
3. Deputy Governorship Candidate, 2023, Murtala Sule Garo factor,
4. Gawuna – Garo factor,
5. State Chairman, Abdullahi Abbas factor,
6. Hon Alhassan Ado Doguwa factor,
7. Kano Emirship Tussle factor,
8. Garo – Baffa Dan Agundi factor,
9. Expectation of support from the above factor

There could be other factors in some people’s eyes. But to me, I only look at those factors that can change the political direction of either the party or the state or both. The space is still open for further discussion.

Under the National Chairman of the party Dr Ganduje, CON, the major threat that could face APC in Kano, is when Ganduje is deliberately being “humiliated” by the very party, he aided to victory in the 2023 Presidential election. Ganduje was one of the earliest callers who supported the candidature of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then an aspirant.

Before you knew it Ganduje was able to influenced many Northern governors at the time, to came out boldly and declared that North would support only Southern candidate. That was how Tinubu made it.

Whenever some elements within the party plotted for Ganduje’s fall, that will for sure cause many damages to the party in Kano and indeed other parts of Northern Nigeria. No doubt about this! First and foremost, that could easily be translated to mean, loyalty is no longer a pride in political parlance. Just to highlight a few points on Ganduje. He is an experienced politician who knows his onions. Ask his political opponents.

For Barau, if it is true that, he is eyeing the position of Vice President, come 2027, yes the intention is bold and emphatic. But he has to have his plan on how to tread safely, with the current Vice President on board. And he has to know how to handle some notable Northerners who have either directly or symbolically indicate their interest to run for Presidency in 2031 or so.

But if his intention is still on governorship position, Garo and the former Deputy Governor of Kano State and former Minister of State, Housing, Abdullahi Tijjani Muhammad Gwarzo, are still more relevant and powerful than him from the Zone, Kano North. Part of his minuses as observed by many is, his inability to surround himself with politicians of substance and relevance.

While his one touch political strategy, is also seen as another political blunder. That those he accepted or welcomed into APC from other political parties, only get his ears during the jamboree when being celebrated as new entrants. But after that, all new comers are on their own (laughter).

Unlike Garo, Barau can hardly mention five standard politicians from across all the 44 local governments in the state. Politicians that are reliable. But in the case of Garo, many believe that, he knows, very closely, political actors down to polling units.

Many believe that, if Barau gets any ticket in the state elective positions, especially if he didn’t work for it, internal Intrigues among other things would spell doom for him. In this situation therefore, political alignments and realignments could be a safety valve for him and his ambition.

Another dust for Barau, from the standpoint I’m looking at it, is, if it is true he is at loggerhead with Ganduje, I won’t say Rest In Peace (RIP), but I would rather advice him to have a rethink.

So also concerning federal government appointments, if it is true that he has a hand in dropping AT Gwarzo, among other intrigues, so I will wait for 2027 to come. If it happens that I will be alive.

The greatest of it all, is, if it is true that he has a hand in delaying Garo’s appointment all these while, I assume that he will not be the driver of Kano’s political ambulance. Where all the injured, the severely sick and pregnants of uncertainty remain with the driver for an appointed time and destinations.

For Garo, many believe with full conviction, that, his political strength, relevance, result – oriented political practice, down – to-earth political strategy, magnanimous postulation coupled with his generosity, elevate him to be one of the few existing forces to be reckoned with in Kano politics.

Within a twinkle of an eye, Garo can give you practical names of people that can work for the party across all the 44 local governments and 448 Wards of the state.

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He, as at the time I was writing this paragraph, still enjoys the support and commitment of many former local governments Chairmen, since during Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso’s second tenure in office. Down to Ganduje’s eight years in office.

Garo enjoys similar support and commitment from many party leaders at local governments and wards levels. From caucuses of the party at all levels. Also from many former members of the Kano State Assembly. How he managed to get that, I really don’t have the slightest idea. But he is such a strong pillar within the rank and file of the party.

Whether it is true or not, that, he also enjoys the support of the former First Lady Prof Hafsat Abdullahi Ganduje, an impression that makes Gawuna to be treading cautiously, Garo believes, internal democracy is best option for imposition.

Garo’s political sins? According to some opinions, he too much loves the party and he is too loyal to Ganduje, to a fault. But that did not stop him from calling the attention of the former governor to join hands together, with other former governors and political leaders to develop the state. While setting aside their personal interest and differences.

The fourth factor is Gawuna-Garo. It is crafted this way for the simple reason that, some are of the opinion that, Gawuna needs Garo, more than the way Garo needs Gawuna. In terms of political spread across the 44 local governments, both party leaders and followers, believe that Garo was more spread tactfully and earlier than Gawuna, before 2023 general election.

Arguing that Garo was Chairman Kabo local government as Gawuna was also Chairman Nassarawa local government, but Garo was State Chapter Chairman for Association for Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Commissioner for local governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, which gave him age over Gawuna, in terms of political spread and connections to grassroot.

Some people are of the opinion that, Gawuna – Garo ticket can still hold water in 2027. Others argued in the contrary. Challenging that, it could be better for the ticket to be contested for, among all aspiring elements.

Gawuna – Garo ticket according to protagonists, may not need fresh engagement. Because, the ticket has become a household name in Kano politics. Believe it or not, if by chance Gawuna – Garo ticket is maintained in 2027, victory is not automatic. Apart from correcting the past anomalies, those who do not mean well for the party, either overtly or covertly, must be exposed and dealt with politically. If genuine victory will be the goal.

Abdullahi Abbas, as an institution, as some argued, and as a factor, is not a ready-made threat to the party at all. I don’t care whether Abbas continues to be the Chairman forever, but what I am concerned with, is, how the party can regain consciousness with genuine commitment, abandoning self – first approach to issues and engaging honest individuals. I believe there is honesty in politics. Depending on which side of the prism one is looking at.

Yes Abbas is a factor in the party, because many believe he is the perfect match for the opposition in Kano. He masters the language they understand. As far as I’m concern, Abbas or Dan Azumi Gwarzo or Mutari Ishaq Yakasai or Tumfafi or any other person can become a Chairman of the party.

But I suggest that, consolidation of the party’s strength, spread and unrelenting tempo should be left with some hardworking individuals like Garo, Baffa Dan Agundi and Alhassan Ado Doguwa, among few others. Coincidentally they come from our three Senatorial Zones. As party leaders will be occupied with managing the party, Garo-Agundi-Doguwa will be saving the party from external aggression. Without any fear of mincing words, they are very strong, hard working and absolutely fearless!

Doguwa as a factor, it is acknowledged by many that he is a dogged fighter, an astonishing moulder, engaging capacity builder, an accomplished politician of great substance and intellectually sound. He is the only, yes the only, member of House of Representatives who was elected under APC from Kano South. Kwankwasiyya Tsunami was unable to get rid of him in 2023 elections.

He too, masters the language understood by the opposition in the state. Apart from being fearless, in the scheme of things, Doguwa, believes in good representation of his people. One of the outspoken legislators in the Green Chamber, Abuja. Very articulate and down – to-earth.

His ferocious political engagement means a lot in dealing with the opposition voices from Kano South. If APC can be bold and serious enough to bring on board somebody like Doguwa from Kano South, the party, APC, will be dancing to victory, come 2027, in the state. He is a force to be reckoned with in Kano politics. Take it or leave it.

Kano Emirship Tussle as one of the factors, for APC to make or mar in 2027, I have only one statement here. All those that are thinking of making this lingering crisis a corridor for APC’s victory in 2027, are only telling us that they are lazy and cannot fight for the party’s victory. They are only suggesting that, they cannot work very hard for victory. They are only searching for shortcut to political victory. This stance is defeatist!

As for Garo – Dan Agundi factor, I mentioned the union above. Linking them with Doguwa to form tripartite engagement. While party leaders are busy managing party affairs, Garo – Dan Agundi – Doguwa, should be given a particular role to play in managing the youth aspect of the party, particularly against external aggression. This special assignment needs genuine people, with genuine purpose and genuine goal.

Those waiting for support from above during 2027 election, without working for victory, are only deceiving themselves. That is why it is high time for rejig, reengineering, refocus, realignment, reinvesting of ideas and running away from poverty of ideas.

Anwar, was Chief Press Secretary to the former Governor of Kano State, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Can be reached at fatimanbaba1@gmail.com

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200,000 APC Members in Kano Dismiss Allegations Against Ministerial Nominee Yusuf Abdullah Atta as Baseless

Published

6 months ago

on

October 27, 2024

By

 

Over 200,000 members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State have dismissed allegations of incompetence against the ministerial nominee, retired Hon. Yusuf Abdullah Atta, as baseless. Some APC members in Kano believe the allegations stem from personal grudges held by a few individuals who are not legitimate members of the party.

In a statement, Mustapha Gidan Magani, the secretary of APC Kwaciri Ward, on behalf of the entire executive committee of APC Fagge Local Government Area, rejected the allegations of anti-party activities during the 2023 general election. The executives argued that those intending to submit a petition to the Senate, claiming to represent 50,000 APC members, have no legal standing to make such claims.

The APC executives from Fagge Local Government Area are prepared to counter the petition, asserting that it will have little impact on the confirmation of Atta as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development. They expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for nominating Atta, highlighting his administrative skills and dedication to serving humanity.

 

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