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Anambra Poll: 17 Guber Candidates Sign Peace Pact …INEC Vows To Prosecute Electoral Offenders, Vote Buyers …

Published

5 years ago

November 7, 2021

Candidates for Saturday’s Anambra State governorship election, yesterday, signed a peace accord in Awka, the state capital, just as INEC has warned the people of Anambra State that it would prosecute any electoral offender including its staff in this weekend’s governorship election.
This is as the Inspector General of Police; Usman Alkali Baba has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement in and out of Anambra from 11:59pm on Friday, November 5, 2021 to 11:59pm on Saturday, November 6, 2021 as part of measures aimed at protecting the sanctity of the electoral process in the November 6, 2021.
Also, following the genuine intervention of elders, esteemed traditional rulers and religious leaders, and after due consideration of the positive impacts of their engagement, the leadership of IPOB has immediately called off the one-week sit-at-home earlier declared to commence today to November 10, 2021.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, was present at the ceremony, which was facilitated by the National Peace Committee.
Also present at the ceremony were the National Peace Committee Chairmanship, former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd); and the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Dr Mathew Kukah.
In his speech, Yakubu, warned the people of Anambra State that INEC would prosecute any electoral offender including its staff in this weekend’s governorship election.
The chairman reiterated the determination of the commission to deploy technology for the poll, assuring that the electoral body was mentally, physically, logistically ready for the poll.
He reminded the electorate that vote buyers would also face the full wrath of the law, urging the electorate to be rest assured that their votes will count in the free, fair and credible election.
Mahmood equally reiterated that the ban on the use of smart phone or other photographic devices in the voting cubicles is still in force.
Reading the riot act to the electorate, candidates and official, he said: “I want to assure all voters in Anambra State that in designing the sensitive materials for the election, the commission has introduced additional visible and invisible security features, including different colour codes.”
Speaking earlier, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Barrister Festus Okoye, said that it would be in the interest of democracy, people of Anambra State and Nigeria to conduct an acceptable election in Anambra State.
He argued that having conducted the Edo and Ondo governorship elections under very difficult circumstances occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, the commission will conduct the Anambra poll despite the security challenges.
Also speaking, the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Mathew Kukah urged the good people of Anambra to remember ‘Cain and Abel’ in the holy bible and avoid bloodshed during Saturday’s governorship election.
Kukah disclosed this while speaking in Awka during the ceremony of the signing of the peace accord by candidates for Saturday’s Anambra governorship election.
He said, “First of all, I want to thank the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. His tenacity and commitment has made the credibility of the institution he represents quite easy for many of us. Let me use the word: follow him and support him.
“I want to thank the staff of INEC for their dedication, commitment. I am mighty convinced that in a few years, we will turn the corner. Let us remain in this part and to the good people of Anambra.
“I stand here as a catholic priest. This environment is predominantly catholic, Anglican and predominantly Christian. We have a duty, we have a responsibility to access the fact that blood, bloodshed has no biblical justification that is the story of Cain and Abel, and I just hope and pray that the young people of Anambra and the people of Anambra, in general, will do what needs to be done.
“The DIG has already told you the level of their preparedness. Let it be that for this election, police are not a threat to the facilitators. May God bring peace to Anambra and we plead and plead that nobody would lose his life in the course of just going out to do what is taken for granted in other parts of the world. Please, if you don’t want to vote, it is not by force, you can stay at home.”
However, as part of measures aimed at protecting the sanctity of the electoral process in the November 6, 2021, Anambra State Gubernatorial Elections, the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba has ordered the restriction of vehicular movement in and out of Anambra State.
That will be from 11:59 PM on Friday, November 5, 2021 to 11:59 PM on Saturday, November 6, 2021.
The IGP noted that the restriction order became necessary following pointers from the Election Security Threats Assessments conducted by the Force.
It revealed a high likelihood of infiltration by criminally-minded individuals to Anambra State, before, during and after the polls.
The IGP further noted that the measure would also avail security forces a firm grip of the state to checkmate the movement of political thugs and touts.
It would also prevent the free flow, circulation and use of illicit arms and hard drugs throughout the period and beyond.
The IGP enjoined INEC officials, accredited observers and journalists, and other authorized officials to go about their lawful duties as it relates to the elections, provided they observe all relevant rules guiding their deployment, including the visible display of their accreditation tags.
He acknowledged that police officers and other security personnel deployed for the election would be appropriately supervised.
This is to ensure that they carry out their responsibilities in the most humane, firm and professional manner, especially to emergency service providers such as fire-fighters and ambulance services.
The IGP enjoined citizens particularly motorists and travellers who may want to use the routes within Anambra State during the period of the restrictions to seek alternatives and see the inconveniences as part of sacrifices toward the collective sustenance of our democracy.
He called on citizens in the state to go out en-masse on Election Day and exercise their franchise without any fear or apprehension as the force and other security agencies are already on the ground to ensure a safe and conducive environment for the elections.
Meanwhile, the United States looks forward to a gubernatorial election in Anambra State on November 6 that is peaceful and transparent, with results that accurately reflect the will of the state’s residents.
We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections.
We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.
Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members.
We call on citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.
Earlier, Anambra and other South-East states have witnessed several ‘gunmen’ attacks recently, casting doubts on the safety of the elections.
The proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had also threatened the sanctity of the Anambra election, if its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, was not released from the detention of the Department of State Services (DSS).
It would be recalled that the IPOB in the South-East had declared a seven-day sit-at-home protest in the South-East starting from November 5, if Kanu was not released.
The sit-at-home was expected to start on the eve of the Anambra State governorship election.
However, the Federal Government has beefed up security in the state, promising a free and fair election.
On Tuesday, the Senate Minority Leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe, urged voters to show up at the polls, insisting that the elections will be safe.
Also, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, has since assured of the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), to securing electoral processes, protection of personnel, critical national infrastructure, and materials of INEC ahead of the November 6, 2021, governorship election in Anambra State.
Meanwhile, IPOB has cancelled its one-week sit-at-home order initially planned to take effect from today in Anambra.
IPOB announced the cancellation in a statement signed by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Emma Powerful, yesterday.
The statement reads: “Following the genuine intervention of our elders, esteemed traditional institutions/rulers and religious leaders, and after due consideration of the positive impacts of their engagement, and sequel to the fact that our elders have spoken in our terms, the leadership of IPOB ably lead by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu hereby and immediately calls off the one-week sit-at-home earlier declared to commence today, November 5 to November 10, 2021.
“We have equally considered several appeals by our mothers who earn their living based on their daily economic activities which will obviously be affected if Biafra land is locked down for one whole week. It’s never our intention to add to the pains of our people, hence our decision to suspend the sit-at-home.
“IPOB leadership is only interested in our referendum and peaceful agitation for self-determination, and cannot by under any guise be seen to be interfering with any electoral process.
“The people of Anambra State should go out enmasse and peacefully exercise their franchise come November 6, 20121, and accordingly, chose a leader of their choice and should not be intimidated by anybody, group of persons or security agents.
“Credible intelligence available to us confirmed that the Nigeria DSS has concluded arrangement to deploy a branch of their trained terrorist group to Anambra State come 6th Day 2021, to unleash mayhem on our people and attribute the killing to peaceful IPOB members.
“Anambrarians should vote and standby to protect their votes. No rigging of any kind will be tolerated on the Anambra State governorship election. It must be transparent, free and fair to all.
“We wish to thank Biafrans, IPOB members worldwide, friends of Biafra and lovers of freedom for their continued support for our dogged struggle for independence.
“May we, therefore, warn detractors, traitors and enemies of Biafra not to cause confusion by imputing motives to our decision. IPOB doesn’t expect anybody to observe, monitor or enforce the suspended order otherwise such action will be considered a rebellion to the highest leadership of our global movement.
“On the other hand, our oppressors should not take our decision as an act of cowardice. IPOB still believes that our elders, religious leaders, political leaders and various stakeholders will live up to their promises in their engagements and efforts towards securing the unconditional release of our leader.
“We, therefore, urge all Biafrans and residents of Biafra to go about their lawful businesses without fear of any molestations. All agents of darkness recruited by our enemies to inflict pains on our people under the guise of enforcing the sit-at-home are hereby warned to steer clear or brace up for the consequences of their evil action.
“IPOB will not relent in our pursuit for Biafra freedom. Nigeria government must give us date for Biafra referendum to decide where we want to belong”.

Featured

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment To Peace, Development

Published

5 days ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to peace, unity, security, and inclusive development as Rivers State marked its 59th anniversary, last Wednesday.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary, Governor Fubara stated that despite the challenges faced over the years, the people of Rivers State have continued to demonstrate resilience, strength, and an enduring spirit of unity that has sustained the state since its creation.

The Governor noted that the strong bond of brotherhood among the various ethnic nationalities of the state, including the Ijaw, Ikwerre, Ogoni, Etche, Ekpeye, Andoni, Kalabari, and others, remains one of Rivers State’s greatest strengths and a critical foundation for peace, stability, and progress.

He further observed that Rivers State has remained a major driver of Nigeria’s economy for decades, not only because of its abundant oil and gas resources, but also because of the exceptional contributions of its people across diverse sectors including academia, jurisprudence, business, entertainment, public service, and sports.

Governor Fubara assured the people that his administration will continue to prioritize policies and programmes that promote peace, protect lives and property, and expand development across all parts of the state. He emphasized that governance must be people centered and impactful, with equal attention given to every Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor also paid tribute to the elders and founding leaders of the state for preserving the spirit of unity and coexistence over the years, while urging the youths to remain hopeful, responsible, and actively committed to building a greater Rivers State through innovation, hard work, and patriotism.

He equally acknowledged the invaluable role of women in strengthening families, communities, and society, describing them as indispensable partners in the continued growth and stability of the state.

Governor Fubara called on all Rivers people to use the occasion of the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, dialogue, and collective progress, stressing that the unity and future of Rivers State must always rise above personal interests and political differences.

Rivers State was created on May 27, 1967, by General Yakubu Gowon.

Editorial

Nigeria’s 27 Years of Civil Rule Journey

Published

5 days ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

Nigeria returned to civil rule on May 29, 1999, after several years of military intervention in politics. The transition marked a major turning point in the nation’s history and raised hopes for freedom, stability, economic growth and accountable leadership. Citizens expected that elected governments would strengthen institutions, improve living conditions and unite the country after years of authoritarian rule. Twenty-seven years later, civil rule has survived without interruption, making it the longest uninterrupted civilian administration since independence in 1960.

Since 1999, Nigeria has witnessed six administrations at the federal level. Olusegun Obasanjo governed from 1999 to 2007, followed by Umaru Musa Yar’Adua from 2007 until his death in 2010. Goodluck Jonathan served from 2010 to 2015, while Muhammadu Buhari led the country between 2015 and 2023. Since May 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office. Though democracy has remained stable, governance outcomes have produced mixed reactions among Nigerians.

The country has made some notable progress over the past 27 years. Democratic institutions such as the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties and the media have become stronger than they were during military rule. Elections are now regular, though still imperfect. Telecommunications, banking, entertainment and digital technology have expanded greatly. Nigerian youths have also become more politically aware and active. The country’s economy, despite its difficulties, remains one of the largest in Africa.

However, many of the expectations that came with democracy remain unmet. Corruption, unemployment, poverty, insecurity and poor infrastructure continue to trouble the nation. Public confidence in government institutions has weakened over time because many citizens believe political leaders have not done enough to improve their welfare. Ethnic and religious tensions also remain major challenges. While democracy has endured, good governance has not always matched the hopes of the people.

President Tinubu’s administration began with bold economic decisions aimed at reforming the nation’s finances. His government removed fuel subsidy and unified the foreign exchange system. Supporters argue that these measures were necessary to reduce waste and attract investment. The government also increased revenue allocation to states and sought to improve tax administration. Yet the immediate impact has been severe hardship for millions of Nigerians. Inflation, high transport costs and the falling value of the naira have placed enormous pressure on households and businesses.

In education, the Tinubu administration has promised reforms through student loan schemes, support for technical education and efforts to reduce strikes in tertiary institutions. Some progress has been recorded with the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, public schools still face poor funding, inadequate facilities and shortage of teachers. Many students continue to struggle with rising school fees and declining quality of education.

The health sector under the current administration has also recorded both efforts and challenges. Government has pledged to improve health insurance coverage. Nevertheless, hospitals across the country still suffer from inadequate equipment, shortage of medical personnel and brain drain as doctors and nurses continue to leave Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. Access to affordable healthcare remains difficult for many rural communities.

The power sector remains one of Nigeria’s biggest disappointments after nearly three decades of democracy. Despite repeated promises and reforms, electricity supply is still unstable. Businesses and households spend heavily on generators and fuel. The Tinubu administration has introduced policies aimed at decentralising power generation and encouraging investment, but ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel significant improvement in electricity supply.

The rising cost of living has become the greatest concern for many Nigerians today. Food prices, transportation costs and rent have increased sharply. Though the Federal Government introduced palliative programmes and cash transfer initiatives to cushion the effects of reforms, many citizens believe the interventions have been inadequate or poorly distributed. There is growing demand for more effective social protection programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.

On national security, the government continues to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. Security agencies have recorded some successes in parts of the country, yet insecurity remains widespread. Farmers in many rural communities still face attacks, affecting food production and increasing fear among citizens. Regional stability in West Africa has also become more uncertain due to political crises in neighbouring countries. Nigeria continues to play a leading diplomatic role in the region, but internal security challenges weaken its influence.

In infrastructure and other key sectors, the Tinubu administration has continued several road, rail and housing projects inherited from previous governments. Investments in ports, gas and digital technology have also been encouraged. In agriculture, government has promoted mechanised farming, dry season cultivation and access to credit. Yet food insecurity remains high because insecurity, inflation and poor rural infrastructure continue to affect agricultural productivity. Nigeria still imports many food items despite its vast agricultural potential.

To improve national conditions, the Federal Government must place greater attention on job creation, industrialisation and support for small businesses. More investment is needed in agriculture, healthcare, education and electricity. Anti-corruption institutions should be strengthened while government spending must become more transparent. Leaders must also prioritise national unity and reduce political divisions. Nigerians expect reforms that produce visible improvements in their daily lives, not only policy announcements.

In Rivers State, the 27 years of civilian rule have produced substantial development alongside political tensions. The state has remained economically important because of its oil and gas resources. Different administrations since 1999 have invested in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and urban renewal projects. However, political conflicts and struggles for power have often affected governance and slowed development in parts of the state.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara assumed office in May 2023 amid high expectations and intense political disagreements. In infrastructure, his administration has initiated projects such as massive road construction, bridge rehabilitation and urban development schemes in parts of the state. Ongoing works on major roads and public facilities have been presented as efforts to improve transportation and economic activities. Critics, however, argue that political instability in the state has distracted government’s attention from faster project delivery.

In education and health, the Rivers State Government has continued support for public schools and healthcare centres. Efforts have reportedly been made to improve learning environments and sustain payment of workers’ salaries. In health, there have been interventions in hospitals and primary healthcare services. On security, the administration has worked with security agencies to maintain peace, although political tensions in the state have created uncertainty. In the civil service, workers and pensioners have largely continued to receive salaries, stipends, and welfare support. The state government has also shown interest in agriculture and power development, though these sectors still require stronger investment and clearer long term strategies.

Going forward, Rivers State needs greater political stability to achieve meaningful development. The government should focus more on rural roads, youth employment, agricultural expansion and uninterrupted healthcare services. Investments in independent power projects and industrial development would help attract businesses and reduce unemployment. Above all, political leaders in the state must place the interest of the people above personal or factional battles. Democracy can only succeed when governance delivers peace, development, and hope to ordinary citizens.

Featured

WASSCE: RSG Distributes Science Materials To Secondary Schools

Published

3 weeks ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Government has distributed science equipment and materials to all senior secondary schools across the state to support students during the ongoing West African Examinations Council exams and to strengthen practical learning.

Flagging off the distribution at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board premises in Port Harcourt, on Monday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Peters Nwagor, said the move demonstrates Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to improving education standards in the State.

Nwagor said the materials were approved and provided by the state government specifically to boost the teaching and learning of science subjects, describing science education as the foundation for technological advancement, innovation, and national development.

“No society can compete globally without deliberate investment in science and technology,” the Commissioner stated.

He commended the governor for consistently prioritising the education sector by providing tools needed for effective teaching and hands-on learning.

The Commissioner directed principals to ensure that the equipment are used strictly for practical lessons in their schools, warning that any principal or administrator found diverting, hoarding, or selling the materials wil face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

Nwagor also warned against examination malpractice, saying any principal found aiding or encouraging malpractices will be decisively sanctioned.

“We must collectively restore the dignity and credibility of our educational system,” he said.

Also speaking, Chairman, Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board, Tony Egwurugwu, urged school heads to make judicious use of the materials for students’ benefit.

He thanked the State Government for providing the resources, and assured that monitoring mechanisms would be put in place to ensure the materials serve their intended purpose.

In his own remarks, a Board Member for Technical Education, Nwisabari Bani Samuel, expressed appreciation to the governor for prioritising education and acknowledged the Commissioner’s role in advancing education development in the State.

He said the distribution covers all senior secondary schools in the State and is intended to improve students’ performance in both internal and external science examinations.

Akujobi Amadi