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Plans To Remove APC National Chairman Thickens -Party Chieftain

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Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje,APC National Chairman

 

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Seyi Olorunsola, has expressed deep concern over the misfortune that has befallen the party in Kano State.

Olorunsola, in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, blamed the ugly development on the lack of adequate support from presidency to candidates of the party during various litigations that trailed the 2023 general election.

He lamented that the lack of robust support from President Bola Tinubu during the critical stages of the legal process allowed the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) narratives to gain traction, ultimately influencing court’s decision in its favour.

While blaming the seeming political miscalculation of the presidency for recent defections of some prominent APC members to Kano NNPP, Olorunsola said the move has plunged the party into a state of confusion.

“The recent wave of defections by Local Government Council Chairmen in Kano State from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the ruling New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the state has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, both within the state and at the national level.

“Notably, the defection of the Chairman of Dawakin Tofa Local Government, the immediate constituency of the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the Chairman of Nasarawa Local Government Council, the constituency of the APC gubernatorial candidate in the last elections, Dr. Nasir Gawuna, has added a significant twist to the unfolding political drama.

“These events highlight concerns that I have raised long before the Supreme Court affirmed Governor Kabir Abba as the elected Governor of the state. I consistently emphasized that the leadership of the APC at the national level, particularly the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led presidency-a product of the party, seemed too laid back in drumming up support for its candidate. Even when victories were secured at the Tribunal and the Appeal Court, the propaganda machine orchestrated by the NNPP, which essentially incited the public against the APC, set the stage for the events that unfolded at the Supreme Court.

“Without casting judicial prejudice on the judges involved, it is crucial to acknowledge the impact of the propaganda and misinformation campaign orchestrated by the NNPP. The lack of robust support from the President during the critical stages of the legal process allowed these narratives to gain traction, ultimately influencing the Supreme Court’s decision. Had the President thrown his full weight behind the APC candidate, the current scenario might have taken a different turn. Unfortunately, it appears the President allowed the situation in Kano to unfold, possibly with an eye on the 2027 elections, inadvertently pressing a self-destruct button.

“The aftermath of these defections has plunged the APC in Kano into a state of confusion, with the looming possibility of more individuals abandoning the party. It is essential to recognize that the APC National Chairman, despite appearances of losing grip in his immediate constituency, bears no blame for the current predicament. He has consistently demonstrated commitment to the party, and his efforts to navigate the complex legal terrain were hindered by the lack of decisive support from the Presidency.

“The withholding of support for the APC in Kano during crucial legal battles has left those who ardently supported the President during the Presidential Election in the state bearing the brunt of such indecision. It is imperative to note that the implications of these decisions go beyond the immediate political fallout, affecting the party’s credibility and unity in the state, ” he said.

Olorunsola, however, called on Kano APC members not to be discouraged but remain supportive of the National Chairman of the party, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, in his efforts to reposition it for better performance.

” In this challenging moment, I extend a heartfelt plea to APC supporters in Kano to maintain faith in the party’s leadership, under the steadfast guidance of the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Despite external pressures and internal challenges, he has consistently exemplified loyalty and dedication as a party stalwart. It is crucial for supporters to remain united, as any disintegration only plays into the divisive strategy employed by the NNPP to undermine the APC’s strength in the state.

“The NNPP’s role in orchestrating these defections is perceived as a divisive tactic aimed at breaking the ranks of the APC, creating an illusion of a fractured leadership both at the state and national levels. The initial optimism that the NNPP would join forces with the APC to strengthen its position in Kano now seems to be fading away. The Presidency’s gamble on the NNPP has unwittingly played into the deceitful nature of the party, further complicating the political landscape in Kano, ” he said.

The APC chieftain also warned the presidency against working with Rabiu Kwankwaso ahead of 2027 general elections, saying such political adventure portend danger for the party.

” Having made a first gaffe in succumbing to the manipulative games of the NNPP, the Presidency must be wary of not further playing into the hands of the Leader of the party in the person of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, whose ambition is to be the de facto political party of Kano State.

“The game-plan would be to edge Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje out of the position of National Chairmanship of the APC, thereby paving a clear path for Senator Kwankwaso to have his way in Kano and in the next elections. President Tinubu must be wary of the scheme being hatched.

“As we navigate this challenging period, it is crucial to foster a sense of unity within the APC in Kano and reaffirm our commitment to the party’s principles and objectives. The internal strength of the APC should not be underestimated, and despite the current challenges, there is potential for resilience and resurgence. It is a time for introspection, strategic planning, and rallying behind the National Chairman to steer the party through these turbulent waters.

“In conclusion, the events in Kano underscore the importance of robust and unwavering support from party members and leaders. The APC must learn from this experience, recognizing the need for proactive and united action to secure its political standing. Together, we can overcome the current challenges, rebuild trust, and emerge stronger, ensuring that the APC remains a formidable force in Kano State.

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Nigerian Television Authority Mourns With The Family Of NTA Broadcaster Joy Osiagwu Who Passed Away

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The Director General of The Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, Salihu Abduhamid Dembos has condoled the families, friends and colleagues of late Joy Osiagwu saying the entire NTA family was deeply saddened at the news of her death.

This is contained in a condolence message signed by the DG NTA where he describes the late Joy as a cherished former colleague, respected reporter, and accomplished news caster. He notes that Joy demonstrated the spirit of journalism with her unwavering dedication, integrity, and passion for the profession.
In extolling Joy’s virtues the NTA’s Director General says late Joy brought to her role not only an exceptional talent for storytelling but also a deep sense of responsibility to the truth.

The statement notes that throughout Joy’s career her sense of professionalism and commitment set a high standard, inspiring both her colleagues and viewers across the nation as her voice was a trusted source of news.
While extending heart felt condolences to the family, friends on behalf of the entire NTA, the DG says Joy was part of the fabric of the organisation, and that her contributions remain etched in the foundation of NTA’s mission.
While praying for Joy’s soul to rest in peace the DG equally enjoined the family to take solace in the impacts she made in the field of journalism and on the countless lives in and outside Nigeria while alive.

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Dangote named most tax complaint business organizations by FIRS

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L- R, Dangote Ports Managing Director, Akin Omole, Dangote Industries ltd, Group Head, Strategic Tax & Compliance, Dr.Titilayo Fowokan, receiving the Federal Inland Revenue Service(FIRS)’s Most Compliant Taxpayer Award from the FIRS Director, Tax Payers Service Department, Dr. Loveth Onanuga; FIRS Tax Controller Large Taxpayers Office, Ikeja Lagos, Abisola Olabiyi; FIRS State Administration Lagos Mainland, Ishola Akingbade,at the presentation of the award in Lagos at the weekend.

It was a season of award at the weekend for the Dangote Group and its subsidiaries following their recognition as best Nigeria’s best compliant tax payer business organization and FMDQ Gold award winner for being the most active corporate organization in the foreign exchange market.

Dangote Indusries Limited (DIL) and Bluestar Shipping, a subsidiary, were recognized as the most compliant in tax payment in the country ahead of the MTN Communication while the country’s leading cement manufacturer, Dangote Cement Plc at another occasion won three awards at the FMDQ Gold Awards held in Lagos.

During the Special Day of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) at the just concluded Lagos International Trade Fair, the nation’s tax regulators adjudged Dangote Industries Limited as the most compliant taxpayers in Nigeria.

In another development, Dangote Cement Plc emerged as the Largest Commercial Paper Quotation on FMDQ and Single Largest Corporate Debt Issue on FMDQ. Dangote Industries Ltd also emerged as the “Most active corporate in the foreign exchange market”.

The FMDQ GOLD Awards, (Global Competitiveness, Operational Excellence, Liquidity and Diversity), is a corporate tradition that recognises the resilience and agility of the Nigerian financial markets’ participants.

The award acknowledges the valuable efforts of these stakeholders, whose participation in the FMDQ markets and across the financial market infrastructure value chain of FMDQ’s businesses – Securities Exchange, Central Counterparty and Depository – have positively shaped the course of the markets and invariably impacted the development of the Nigerian economy.

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Two companies from the Dangote stable, Dangote Cement and Blue Star Shipping were recognised at the weekend by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) as being among the most compliant taxpayers. As part of its Special Day activities at the 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair, the FIRS celebrated several business organisations for their high levels of tax compliance.

Dangote Cement was recognised in the biggest taxpayer category in the part of the programme tagged “FIRS compliant taxpayers awards and recognition”. Several speakers at the event including FIRS State Administration Lagos Mainland, Ishola Akingbade, who represented the Chairman of FIRS commended these companies for their high levels of compliance which makes tax administration easy.

Head of Tax Compliance at Dangote Industries Ltd, Dr. Titi Fowokan speaking on the journey leading to the recognition by FIRS  stated that “Dangote as a Group has a Tax Policy that is based on zero tolerance for tax non-compliance. As good corporate citizens, we comply with all relevant laws, including tax laws. Also, complying with the tax payment statutory deadlines ensures that we do not fall foul of the law, which stipulates penalties for non-compliance.”

We pride ourselves in the Dangote Brand and seek to promote a tax compliance culture, which demonstrates our corporate responsibility to the government for the provision of public goods and services for the citizens”, she added.

Fowokan explained that the company as part of steps to achieve compliance maintained its best practice tax governance culture, ensured ⁠accurate tax computation and timely remittance to avoid penalties & interest arising from tax compliance defaults. She affirmed that these steps helped to minimise tax audit risks & avoid incidence of tax litigations.

Dangote Industries Limited (Dangote Group) is one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates. It is a diversified and fully integrated conglomerate. It has been a key investor in the Nigerian economy. The Group’s interests include cement, sugar, salt, fertiliser, agriculture, transport, packaging and real estate, the oil and gas, petrochemical, and steel sectors of the economy.

The core business focus of the Group, which started operations in 1978, is to provide local, value-added products and services that meet the ‘basic needs’ of the populace. Through the construction and operation of large-scale manufacturing facilities in Nigeria and across 17 other African countries, Dangote Group is focused on building local manufacturing capacity to generate employment, prevent capital flight and provide locally produced goods for the people.

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Stop Attacking Tinubu Over Your Removal, Sacked Minister Gwarzo Warned

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The Renewed Hope Ambassadors Forum (RHAF) has warned the former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi T. Gwarzo, to cease attacking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his removal from the federal cabinet.

Gwarzo and four others were relieved of their duties last month due to concerns regarding their performance in implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda for their respective ministries.

In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service on Saturday, Gwarzo claimed that his removal was politically motivated. He questioned President Tinubu’s appointment of Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Atta as his successor. He specifically suggested that the President should have appointed Nasiru Yusuf Gawuna, the APC’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Kano State, instead of Atta.
Gwarzo also shared details of his private conversation with the President regarding his removal.

In response, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Forum described Gwarzo’s remarks as insulting to President Tinubu and the presidency, asserting that his statements revealed he was unfit for the ministerial position.

The Kano State Coordinator of the forum, Comrade Danjuma Usman Gwale, in a statement, expressed dismay that Gwarzo had indirectly questioned Section 171 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which grants the President the authority to hire and fire ministers.

“We viewed the BBC interview of the sacked Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi T. Gwarzo, as an insult and an attack on President Tinubu, who has the constitutional powers to appoint and dismiss ministers.

“For someone who has served as a minister to disclose private conversations with the President publicly is not only unfortunate and ridiculous but also unbecoming of his status. It indicates that he cannot be trusted. This behaviour is an insult to both the President and the presidency. He should understand the implications of sharing confidential discussions with the media, particularly those involving the President. In the first place, he may not even be qualified to be a minister,” they said.

The forum further characterised the interview as an attempt to undermine the President and warned Gwarzo to desist immediately or face appropriate consequences.

” No dropped minister in the history of this country has ever ignorantly behaved like Gwarzo. The usual practice for those who are knowledgeable in the practice of Democracy is to thank the President for giving them the opportunity to serve and then move on with their lives, just like the rest of the ministers recently dropped by President Tinubu did. But Gwarzo feels that his appointment as a minister was at his behest and not at the president’s behest as enshrined in our constitution. We believe that Gwarzo needs someone to lecture him appropriately in this regard.

In a statement by Comrade Danjuma Usman Gwale Kano State Coordinator
Renewed Hope Ambassadors Forum (RHAF) said Gwarzo’s utterances are capable of undermining the President. Why is he now recommending Gawuna rather than doing so when he was nominated as a minister in 2023? He should have declined his nomination if he believed Gawuna was the right choice. We don’t know who told him that defeated APC Gubernatorial candidates must be appointed ministers. His level of hypocrisy is unacceptable, and we will not tolerate it,” they stated.

 

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