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1999 Constitution is major setback to Good Governance in Nigeria – Attah

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***Calls for reassessment of Nigeria’s Federalism at FFDGN National Conference

Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Obong Victor B. Attah, has declared that the 1999 Constitution is a major hindrance to good governance in Nigeria.
Attah made this statement during his keynote address at the 2024 National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), as chairman of the ocasion held at the Abuja Continental Hotel on Tuesday

Attah criticized the 1999 Constitution, stating that it carried over structural flaws from the military regime that undermined Nigeria’s federalism, which he believes has stifled governance, accountability, and development. He urged the forum to advocate for reforms that will restore true federalism and drive the country toward progress.

“The defilement of federalism has been the biggest drawback to good governance, inclusiveness, and development,” Attah stated, calling for a critical reassessment of the nation’s governance structure.
“The theme of your conference and the five sub-themes show that you have a clear awareness of our current situation in this country.
“Let me add to that my conviction that, as a forum, there is a lot that you can do to add value in all these areas. I say this because, I had found it necessary, in accepting to chair this occasion, to carefully read through your Fact Book.

“Your Fact Book tells me that you were “founded to provide opportunities for past Deputy Governors to deploy their expertise, skills and knowledge individually and collectively for the growth and sustainable development of Nigeria” it goes on to describe you as “a good governance interventionist Organization”.
He asked rhetorically what the forum consider as good governance? Whether Nigeria has been practicing good governance? And how as a forum, they have intervened?

“As a critical platform of quality managers of human and material resources, your forum is expected to contribute to nation building through advocacy for good policy initiatives that will promote a culture of accountability, as well as a consciousness of Nigeria’s Core National Values

“What are these Core National Values and have we always been Accountable?

“From the 2023 Record of Proceedings of your National Conference & Summit, I read where it was said that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) is a good document that can lead our country to the expected eldorado.
“Those of you who have listened to some of my television interviews or read some of my published articles will know that I totally and completely disagree with the statement.

“Rather, like you, I identify fully with the findings of your October, 2022 Annual General Meeting which was held in Uyo. The theme was National Building In Challenging Times and the first major problem that you identified was the installation, by the military regime, of a command structure that defiled Nigeria’s federalism installed from 1954.
“That defilement was carried over into the 1999 constitution and that, by destroying the foundation of federalism on which the country was built, has in my honest opinion remained our biggest drawback to good governance, accountability, inclusiveness, productivity and development.

“The challenging times are still here with us and you have identified in this year’s theme, the main challenges that are still facing us today.
“This is why I have tried in this opening address to stimulate, and may even be, provoke you to think deeply at this conference, discuss frankly and, hopefully at the end, as an interventionist organization, provide this country with the solutions that we so desperately need to bind our country into a thriving nation that is moving forward.
Former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba, who aligned with Atta on his submissions called on former deputy governors in Nigeria to aim for the highest office in the land, citing the historical precedent set by former President Goodluck Jonathan. Osoba highlighted that deputy governors have previously risen to the presidency and could do so again.

“There is still hope. You produced a president before—why can’t you do it again?” Osoba said, referencing Jonathan’s rise from deputy governor of Bayelsa State to president of Nigeria. He expressed his support for the Forum, commending their commitment to good governance and non-partisan collaboration for the betterment of the country.

Osoba stressed the importance of food security, emphasizing that a self-sufficient nation is a powerful one. He praised the Forum for its dedication to national development, crossing party lines to focus on the future of Nigeria.

In closing, Osoba encouraged the Forum to continue its work, expressing hope that one or more of its members might someday become president. “I may not be around, but my prayer will be heard by the grace of God,” he said.

Hon. Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, Director-General of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), emphasized the Forum’s commitment to nation-building and strategic policy interventions at the 3rd National Conference in Abuja. He highlighted the Forum’s growth since its founding in 2011 and its current role as a key platform for driving political and economic dialogue in Nigeria.

The FFDGN’s mission is to fill gaps in policy and governance, providing a solid foundation for the next generation of leaders. This vision is crucial as Nigeria faces governance and economic challenges. Ibe-Kalu acknowledged the efforts of the Forum’s founding members in establishing this vision.
Chairman of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), Dr. Chris A. Akomas, called for urgent and strategic measures to tackle Nigeria’s governance and food security challenges.
Akomas stressed the need for Nigeria to leverage its resources and expertise to overcome critical obstacles to national development.

Themed “Strategic Solutions for Good Governance, Food Security, and Sustainable Growth in Nigeria,” the conference gathered former deputy governors and key national stakeholders to address the nation’s governance inefficiencies and the pressing issue of food insecurity. Akomas underscored that nation-building requires a collective commitment to innovation and practical solutions, highlighting the unique position of the FFDGN in driving reforms.

He also advocated for international cooperation, citing the Forum’s partnership with the Polish Nigeria Business Council as a key initiative to boost trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
Akomas urged participants to move from discussions to concrete actions, and announced the Forum’s plan to present a compendium of governance experiences to guide future leaders.

The conference is set to produce actionable recommendations aimed at enhancing governance and ensuring food security for Nigeria’s sustainable growth.

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Obidient Movement Gears Up for 2027, Strengthens Unity

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Obidient Movement Logo

Following a successful Advisory and Directorate Committees meeting held recently, the Obidient Movement has reaffirmed its commitment to a united, strategic, and value-driven political future.

The meeting, described as a milestone gathering, brought together key stakeholders and leaders within the movement to solidify strategies for the 2027 general elections.
Central to the discussions was the vision of ensuring competent, value-based leadership, with a strong emphasis on supporting Peter Obi and like-minded leaders who embody the movement’s ideals of integrity, good governance, and accountability.
Participants at the meeting underscored the importance of organisation, coordination, and active participation in driving the movement’s objectives.
The event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, reinforcing the need for structure, outreach, and grassroots mobilisation to sustain the momentum ahead of the next election cycle.

Following the deliberations, members left with a renewed sense of purpose, fully aware of the responsibilities ahead.
National Coordinator of the Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko
expressed confidence in the movement’s direction, thanking those who have taken up leadership roles in various directorates and advisory councils.

“We deeply appreciate all those who have accepted appointments to serve in different capacities. Their contributions will be critical in shaping the movement’s future. We also salute the millions of Obidients across Nigeria and beyond who tirelessly advocate and mobilise for a better country. Your dedication is the heartbeat of this movement,” Dr. Tanko stated.
Continuing, he said eith renewed energy and focus, the Obidient Movement is set to expand its structures nationwide, ensuring greater coordination and effectiveness.
According to him, the movement will also empower supporters with the tools needed to actively participate in governance and political processes as well as sustained mobilization at all levels, to reinforce the push for transformative leadership in Nigeria.

Dr. Tanko urged all supporters to stay engaged, participate actively, and remain steadfast in their commitment to the movement’s cause.
He emphasized that a new Nigeria is within reach, but only through collective action and perseverance.
Finally, Tanko encouraged all Obidients to stay informed, join local chapters, and contribute to the shared vision of a better Nigeria.
For further updates and participation, he urged supporters to reach out via Obidient.unification@gmail.com.

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2027 Elections: SDP’s Agunloye Calls for Ideology-Driven Alliances, Not Just Power Grabs

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Olu Agunloye

National Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dr. Olu Agunloye, has warned that alliances must go beyond mere power-seeking and instead be rooted in principles, ideology, and national development.
This is coming as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections with political coalitions and realignments taking center stage once again.
In a thought-provoking paper titled “The Tikanga for Alliances and Coalitions for Good Governance and Life More Abundant,” released in Abuja on Monday, Agunloye examined Nigeria’s history of political coalitions—highlighting their successes, failures, and the urgent need for a new approach.
Dr. Agunloye traced the failures of past alliances, including, the United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA) of 1964, formed out of political expediency, lacking a unifying ideology.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 successfully unseated the ruling party in 2015 but failed to deliver long-term national development, leaving Nigeria struggling with insecurity, poor infrastructure, and economic challenges.

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP 2018) despite signing a memorandum to support a joint candidate, it lacked a clear roadmap before the 2019 elections.

The National Consultative Front (NCF 2021) aimed to form a mega-party for the 2023 elections failed to implement its strategy within INEC’s timeframe.
Looking ahead to 2027, Agunloye urged political stakeholders to move beyond short-term electoral victories and instead adopt a structured, principle-based approach to coalition-building.
He emphasized that alliances should prioritize national security, social justice, and economic prosperity over personal ambition.
“Political partnerships must be built well in advance of elections, with clear strategies for leadership, policies, and campaign execution.
“Coalitions should not be a dumping ground for defecting politicians but a platform for individuals and groups genuinely committed to Nigeria’s progress.
“A blueprint for governance must be established before seeking electoral victory to prevent post-election chaos.”

Dr. Agunloye suggested that the SDP, under its current leadership, has the necessary structure to support a well-planned alliance.
However, he stressed that other political platforms could also contribute to building a coalition focused on national transformation.

“Nigeria does not need to reinvent the wheel,” he stated, urging stakeholders to learn from past coalition mistakes and work towards a grand alliance that prioritizes governance over politics.

As the 2027 elections approach, the critical question remains, will political leaders embrace a new, ideology-driven alliance or repeat the cycle of failed coalitions?

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Ex-LP Treasurer Rejects Abure’s Igbo Presidency Push, Advocates Merit-Based Leadership

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Oluchi Oparah

A former National Treasurer of the Labour Party (LP), Oluchi Oparah, has distanced herself from the position of the party’s National Chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, on the path to an Igbo presidency, insisting that Ndigbo must secure the presidency through merit, not ethnic sentiment.
Oparah’s reaction follows Abure’s recent statement at a South-East Labour Party rally in Abuja, where he reiterated the party’s commitment to supporting the Igbo for the presidency in 2027. According to Abure, the LP had zoned its 2023 presidential ticket to the South-East to “wipe the tears” of the region, urging Igbo leaders to realign and consolidate their political strength ahead of the next election.
However, Oparah, in a statement issued on Sunday, strongly disagreed with Abure’s approach, warning that framing the presidency as an ethnic entitlement rather than a merit-based contest could hurt Ndigbo’s chances.
“The notion that Ndigbo can only achieve the presidency by exploiting tribal and regional sentiments is not only misguided but also detrimental to our collective progress as a nation,” she said.
She pointed to the performance of Peter Obi in the 2023 general elections as evidence that an Igbo candidate can gain nationwide support based on competence, integrity, and vision, rather than ethnic affiliation.
“Obi’s success was not built on ethnic sentiment but on his impressive credentials and performance record, which still speak for him today. If not for certain electoral irregularities, he could have secured the seat for the betterment of all Nigerians,” Oparah argued.

She further criticized Abure’s rhetoric, stating that it undermines the principle of national unity and meritocracy.
“Rather than promoting an ethnic-based campaign strategy, Ndigbo must focus on building a coalition of support across different ethnic and political groups. The presidency of Nigeria should be won based on competence, vision, and leadership, not sentiment,” she said.
Oparah urged political leaders to prioritize a unifying national agenda over ethnic considerations, warning that emphasizing tribal politics could alienate potential allies and weaken support for an Igbo candidate.
As the race for 2027 begins to take shape, her remarks signal a growing debate within the Labour Party and the wider political landscape over the best approach for the South-East to attain national leadership.

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