Labour Party’s triumph in UK, sign that LP will win Nigeria’s 2027 election – Rep
The Leader of the Labour Party Caucus of the House of Representatives, Afam Victor Ogene, has said the victory of opposition Labour Party in the United Kingdom, UK, is a sign that its Nigerian version would triumph in the 2027 general elections. In a statement made available to journalists in Awka, Friday, Ogene said the election told vivid tales of hope for the opposition, and competence and integrity of the electoral umpires in the UK, in a manner that elicits public confidence and trust in the electoral process. “Unlike what was witnessed in Nigeria in the last general elections, the process in UK was free of glitches, as about 40 million voters took part. Polls closed around 10 pm Thursday and by daybreak, the results were out. “There was no judicial ambush, as immediate transition took place to the admiration of all lovers of democracy and free and fair elections. “If we must practice democracy, we must also love, copy and abide by the transparency and accountability of democratic institutions in nations of the world that allow the rule of law and democratic principles to thrive. “In deed, one of the potent lessons of the British elections is the fact that, the concept of ‘snatch it, grab it, and run away with it,’ has no place in modern democratic practice,” he said. Relating the development in the UK to the 2027 election in Nigeria, Ogene said: “I urge the Nigerian Labour Party to draw inspiration from its British counterparts, close ranks, rally the people, and prepare to take the reins of power in 2027. “Let us work together to build a better future for our nation, guided by the principles of democracy, transparency, and accountability.” Ogene congratulated Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party in Britain, for his party’s victory over the outgoing UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak and his Conservative Party, in what has been described as the most emphatic election victory by any British political party this century. The opposition Labour Party won a huge parliamentary majority in the UK general election, unseating the incumbent Conservatives after 14 years. While the Labour Party got 412 seats, the incumbent Conservatives got just 121.
Iran begins poll for presidential election
Polls in Iran opened on Friday for a presidential election following the death of ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. Around 61 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the polls where reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, hopes for a breakthrough win against a divided conservative camp. The Guardian Council, which vets candidates, allowed him to run against a field of conservatives now dominated by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. Also left in contention is cleric Mostafa Pourmohammadi after two ultraconservatives dropped out — Tehran major Alireza Zakani and Raisi’s former vice president Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi. “We start the elections” for the country’s 14th presidential ballot, Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi said in a televised address. Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei cast his ballot shortly after the polls opened and urged Iranians to vote. “Election day is a day of joy and happiness for us Iranians,” he said in a televised speech where he also called for a high turnout. “We encourage our dear people to take the issue of voting seriously and participate,” he said. The election in sanctions-hit Iran comes at a time of high regional tensions between the Islamic Republic and its arch-foes Israel and the United States as the Gaza war rages on. Polls opened at 8:00 am (0430 GMT) in 58,640 stations across the country, mostly in schools and mosques. Polling stations will be open for 10 hours, though authorities could extend voting time as in previous elections. Early projections of the results are expected by Saturday morning and official results by Sunday. If no candidate wins 50 per cent of the vote, a second round will be held on July 5, for only the second time in Iranian electoral history after the 2005 vote went to a runoff. The candidacy of Pezeshkian, until recently a relative unknown, has revived cautious hopes for Iran’s reformist wing after years of dominance by the conservative and ultraconservative camps. Iran’s last reformist president, Mohammad Khatami, praised him as “honest, fair and caring”. Khatami, who served from 1997 to 2005, had also endorsed the moderate Hassan Rouhani, who won the presidency and sealed Iran’s nuclear deal in 2015 with Western powers before it was derailed three years later. The Iranian opposition, particularly in the diaspora, has called for a boycott of the vote. Ultimate political power in Iran is held by Khamenei, the supreme leader. Khamenei insisted this week that “the most qualified candidate” must be “the one who truly believes in the principles of the Islamic Revolution” of 1979 that overthrew the US-backed monarchy. The next president, he said, must allow Iran “to move forward without being dependent on foreign countries”.
US Presidential elections: Trump Debates Biden
Expected to entail much fireworks and exchange of exquisite knowledge of governance, statecraft and foreign policy, the much anticipated debate between incumbent President Joe Biden and his rival, former President Donald Trump did not live up to the billing as it turned out to be a lacklustre and tepid geriartic display. If the debate would be a sole determinant of the election however, then it was as good as won barely twelve minutes into the debate as President Biden, who walked into the debating hall looking fragile and forlorn froze midway into his response to a question clearly indicating that he had had a mental ceisure. The debate was anchored by Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, both of the CNN. It is the first debate, preparatory to the US presidential election scheduled for November 2924. Biden stuttered and coughed intermittently and was barely audible as he blinked and closed his eyes, trying most times to remember his facts. Things improved, however, at the eighteenth minute as President Biden showed a flicker of his old self while discussing border patrol. Clearly, Biden has lost his mojo. He was forlorn, frequently forgot his facts, and blanks out repeatedly. Trump was however, brazen and outlandish about claims about his record of service as President which prompted Biden to state repeatedly that “this guy lies” or “I have never heard anyone tell more lies in my life.” Trump avoided providing answers to most questions that either exposed his criminality or his stance on controversial issues like the invasion of the Congress or the two state solution between Israel and Palestine. A viewer who spoke to Nigerian Anchor on his opinion about the debate roundly condemned the two candidates as grossly unfit to occupy the coveted office of President of the United States of America. The responder states that while President Biden appeared quite infirm and weak to still function as President, Mr. Trump was unapologetically narcissistic and still in denial of all his crimes even after his conviction by the US judicial system. Chris Wallace, top show host and former presidential debate anchor, described Joe Biden’s second term candidacy as “an accident happening in slow motion,” which the Democrats failed to do anything to mitigate.
Off-cycle Elections: INEC Adds 269,992 new Voters to Preliminary Register
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the release of the preliminary register of new voters for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States. In a press statement signed by Mr. Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the Commission outlined the next steps in the electoral process. According to the release, the register will be displayed for claims and objections by citizens for a period of seven days starting from Wednesday, June 12, 2024. The display will take place in all 395 wards across both states and will also be available on the INEC website. Citizens are encouraged to identify any ineligible persons on the register and file objections using Forms EC2 and EC3, which can be obtained from INEC officials or downloaded from the INEC website. Additionally, individuals who have recently registered, applied for transfer, correction of personal details, or replacement of lost or damaged PVCs are urged to draw the Commission’s attention to any errors or wrong entries for further action. The commission also provided statistics from the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) process, indicating a total of 269,992 new voters in the two states following the suspension of registration on June 9, 2024. The majority of registered voters are youths aged 18-34, with students comprising the largest occupational group. Requests for replacement of PVCs, voter transfer, and information updates were also noted. The commission emphasized that these figures are preliminary and subject to further verification, as final figures will be published on a state-by-state basis after the claims and objections period and the use of the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) to clean up the register. The date for the commencement of collection of new PVCs will be announced thereafter. The Commission urged the public to take advantage of the register display period to assist in cleaning up the register as required by law. The commission reiterated the importance of public participation in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the voter register for the upcoming elections.
Nigeria 2023 elections: a show of shame – Peter Obi
Presidential candidate of the Labour Party and second runner up at the 2023 presidential elections, Mr. Peter Obi has described the 2023 general elections as a show of shame, which he said was plagued by allegations of fraud and irregularities that were widespread. In a series of posts via his X page on Saturday, the former Governor of Anambra State said the election was marred by glitches despite the enormous amount of money that was spent to conduct the exercise. Obi said Nigeria’s election is a sharp contrast to the recent South African election, which he described as transparent and seamless. He added that the differences between the two countries’ electoral processes are lamentable. He wrote: “The outcome of the recent South African election results remains a shining example of what a transparent and efficient democratic electoral process should look like. “With about 60% voter turnout, over 90% of polling open on time, allowing diaspora voting, the results and updates were real-time without any form of technical glitches during the election. “This demonstrated the robustness and transparency of their system. The seamless online dissemination of results further highlights their commitment to democratic principles and technological advancement. “This is in stark contrast to the show of shame that the giant of Africa, Nigeria, gave the World in 2023. Nigeria’s 2023 election, with less than 30% of Voter turnout, over 60% of the polling stations starting late, and no diaspora voting, the elections were plagued by allegations of fraud and widespread irregularities, all forms of glitches, despite an enormous expenditure to the tune of about a billion dollars (direct allocation of =N=313 Billion and donor agencies support). “The process has been widely discredited. The differences between the two countries’ electoral processes are both stark and lamentable. South Africa’s Election Results Centre, with its state-of-the-art electronic board, showcased results with unparalleled precision and speed.” Obi asserted that Nigeria’s electoral process is mired in controversy and lack of transparency, saying that it is a painful reminder of the country’s ongoing struggles with democratic governance. Therefore, he called for urgent comprehensive electoral reforms and for the establishment of a system that would restore the people’s faith in the country’s democracy. He added: “Meanwhile, Nigeria’s electoral process is mired in controversy and lacks transparency. This glaring juxtaposition is a painful reminder of our country’s ongoing struggles with democratic governance.] “It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure that our elections are free, fair, and credible. We must learn from South Africa’s example and strive to build a system that restores the people’s faith in our democracy. “The time for action is now, and we can not afford to delay any longer in addressing these critical issues for a new Nigeria is POssible!”
Labour Party Renames ‘Obidient’ Directorate After Backlash, Announces Inauguration Date
The Labour Party (LP) leadership has renamed the ‘Obidient’ directorate, following the backlash it received over the naming and composition of the directorate’s leadership structure. Recall that over 200 support groups, which comprise the ‘Obidient Movement’, had denounced the LP leadership for setting up the directorate and naming some persons as directors. In a statement dissociating themselves from the new directorate, the support groups accused the National Working Committee (NWC) of the LP, under the leadership of Comrade Julius Abure, of trying to use the directorate to strip the movement of its independence. In response to the controversy, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, in a terse statement on Thursday in Abuja, announced the party’s decision to rename the directorate. According to Ifoh, the Obidient Directorate will now be known and referred to as the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration. He added that the inauguration will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the National Secretariat in Abuja. He said, “Following the controversies arising from the creation of the Directorate of OBIDIENT Affairs, in the party, the Directorate is hereby renamed the Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration. “The inauguration will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at the party’s National Secretariat, Utako, Abuja, by 10 a.m. Party members and the general public should take note.”
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Withdraws Lawsuit Against APC, Aiyedatiwa …says President Tinubu intervened
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has made a surprising announcement, withdrawing his lawsuit against the APC, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The lawsuit, originally filed in response to alleged irregularities during the governorship primary election, has been withdrawn by Senator Ibrahim as a gesture of respect for President Bola Tinubu. At a press briefing held in Abuja, Senator Ibrahim disclosed that his decision to withdraw the lawsuit came after President Tinubu’s intervention, which involved both telephone conversations and a lengthy physical meeting at the Villa lasting over an hour. He stressed that the withdrawal was not a personal matter but a pursuit to safeguard internal party democracy, which he believed was compromised during the primary election. The primary election, conducted on April 20, 2024, across Ondo State’s 18 local government councils, saw Governor Aiyedatiwa declared as the winner. However, Senator Ibrahim contested the outcome, leading to legal action against the APC, Governor Aiyedatiwa, and INEC. Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for his guidance and assurance during their meeting, Senator Ibrahim highlighted the president’s commitment to enhancing internal party democracy. He also acknowledged Governor Aiyedatiwa’s prior visit to his residence in Asokoro before the withdrawal of the lawsuit. “I cannot disobey the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria because the issue I am fighting for is not personal. It is simply to improve internal democracy, to which the President has pledged commitment. My respect for the President is unwavering,” the Lawmaker affirmed.
INEC to Release Details of Ondo Gubernatorial Candidates Ahead of Election
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to disclose the personal particulars of candidates and their running mates contending in the Ondo State governorship election. The release is scheduled for Saturday, May 25, 2024. Sam Olumekun, the INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, affirmed that the publication of candidates’ personal details is a consequential step following the conclusion of party primaries. Olumekun clarified that seventeen political parties had adhered to the deadline by successfully submitting their candidates’ nomination forms for the Ondo State gubernatorial race before May 20, 2024. Notably, the dedicated portal for submissions automatically closed at 6:00 pm on the specified date. This forthcoming action is in accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, delineated as item 4 on the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the election. INEC will prominently display copies of Form EC9, alongside all academic credentials and other pertinent documents submitted by each candidate. These displays will be accessible at the INEC state headquarters in Akure and the 18 local government offices across the state. Olumekun urged Nigerians to meticulously examine the documents provided. He clarified that any aspirant who participated in their party primaries and harbors reasonable suspicions regarding the accuracy of information provided by a candidate or running mate, has the prerogative to challenge the nomination in a Federal High Court. This recourse is stipulated in Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022.
INEC Declares Isa Dogonyaro’s Seat Vacant
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared a federal lawmaker’s seat vacant following the untimely death of Hon Isa Dogonyaro. The vacancy extends to three state constituencies, including Khana 2 State Constituency of Rivers state, Bagwai/Shanono State Constituency of Kano State, and Zaria Kewaye State Constituency of Kaduna State. Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC chairman, announced plans to conduct bye-elections in the affected constituencies once preparations are finalized. He emphasized the importance of media support in mobilizing Nigerians for continuous voter registration, especially in Edo and Ondo states ahead of off-cycle governorship elections. Furthermore, Prof. Yakubu urged media organizations to promptly apply for accreditation to report on the elections, ensuring transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Off-cycle Elections: INEC Unveils Plans to Distribute Uncollected Voters Cards
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled its comprehensive strategy to ensure the availability of Uncollected Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) ahead of the upcoming off-cycle elections later this year. The announcement came during the Commission’s second quarterly meeting with the media held at its headquarters in Abuja. During the meeting, the Chairman of INEC reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to facilitating robust voter participation in the electoral process. As part of this initiative, the Commission disclosed plans to publish the list of uncollected PVCs both in its offices and on its official website in the coming days. This measure aims to streamline the process for voters to locate and collect their cards efficiently. Emphasizing the significance of personal collection, the chairman underscored that no PVCs would be collected by proxy, urging registered voters to retrieve their cards in person. Furthermore, the Commission clarified that the final list of candidates for the upcoming off-cycle elections in Edo has been published following the conclusion of party primaries and the withdrawal/substitution period. Campaign activities by political parties in public commenced on April 24th, 2024, and will conclude 24 hours before the election date as mandated by law. In preparation for the Edo elections, media organizations have been urged to promptly apply for accreditation to cover the event. The Commission stressed the importance of adhering to the designated deadline and meeting accreditation criteria to ensure smooth processing. Addressing outstanding bye-elections, the Commission announced vacancies in four states, including State Assembly and Federal Constituency seats. Dates for bye-elections in these constituencies will be announced once preparations are finalized. Additionally, the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise is set to take place in Edo and Ondo States simultaneously from May 27th to June 5th, 2024. Eligible citizens who are not registered voters will have the opportunity to register, while registered voters can transfer their registration or replace lost/damaged cards. To accommodate the limited time before the elections, the registration will occur at ward levels and state headquarters, totaling 397 walk-in registration centers across the two states. In preparation for the CVR exercise, training for at least 794 officials will commence soon. Detailed information on registration centers and procedures has been made available on the Commission’s website and social media platforms. The chairman emphasized the pivotal role of the media in mobilizing prospective registrants for the CVR exercise, urging early registration to avoid last-minute rushes. Collaboration with the media was also solicited to ensure the success of the registration exercise and subsequent electoral processes, highlighting the importance of voter participation in shaping the democratic process.