Politics
Forgive IBB, NNPP Pleads With Nigerians
The New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) led by Dr Boniface Aniebonam on Sunday, urged Nigerians to forgive former military ruler, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida over the annulled June 12, presidential elections.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General in Lagos, Mr Major Agbo, the NNPP stated that “IBB displayed a rare remorse by apologising to Nigerians on June 12.”
“The NNPP notes with great admiration, the courage displayed by IBB for taking responsibility over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections.”
“The fact is not lost on NNPP that it is a rare display of remorse for a Nigerian leader to acknowledge a mistake, and seek forgiveness, an attribute which our great party holds as one of the ingredients needed for new Nigeria,” it stated.
The party further said that “with this remorse, Nigerians will lay to rest all agitations, bitterness and hatred over June 12, 1993 elections”.
The NNPP, however, lauded the courage of those who fought for the actualisation of the June 12 result and also prayed that those who lost their lives in the struggle would rest in perfect peace in the bosom of God.
“Particular mention must be made of late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the election and his darling wife late Mrs kudirat Abiola.”
Both lost their lives in the struggle to actualise the election result.
“ We acknowledge that no amount of apology can bring back these precious jewels and many others who died as a consequence of that mistake.”
“We, however, want to say that in line with the teaching of the holy books, we should let by gone be by gone.”
According to the party, in the spirit of national reconciliation, it appeals to members of late M.K.O. Abiola’s family in particular and the entire aggrieved Nigerian community in general to put the entire episode behind them as Christians and Moslems.”
“We do hope that other past leaders who might have made such mistakes would toe the line of reconciliation with Nigerians.”
“Perhaps, if there is anything Gen. Babangida and any other such past leader could do to assuage the feelings of people, now is the time to do it.”
“No sacrifice is too much for the sake of our dear country,” it added.
The NNPP also stated that the time was ripe for proper re-alignment that would enable politicians of like minds to come together under the same umbrella to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams.
The party announced that it intended to extend its hand of fellowship to great hands, like any Nigerian who is at cross-roads in whatever political camp they belong to be part of a new direction for Nigeria using its platforms.
The Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the Rivers State Governor, Dr. Darlington Oji, has disclosed that about 15 Special Advisers to the governor were duly approved by the Rivers State House of Assembly before the current political crisis in the State.
Oji made the disclosure in a Television programme in Port Harcourt, recently, while reacting to issues surrounding appointments, the impeachment moves against the governor and his deputy, and allegations of financial mismanagement.
He clarified that the appointment of Special Advisers was carried out in strict compliance with constitutional provisions, and received the approval of the Rivers State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, before the crisis began.
According to the Special Adviser, the appointments did not require any further screening, countering claims that the governor violated due process in constituting his advisory team.
On the impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, Oji described the process as unfounded and lacking constitutional backing.
He said that several lawmakers who initially supported the impeachment move were now reconsidering their stance after discovering that the process had no legal basis.
Oji also attributed the impeachment plot to personal and political ambitions, saying it is not motivated by the interest or welfare of the people of Rivers State.
Speaking on the financial position of the State after the Emergency Rule, the Special Adviser disclosed that the governor met about ?600 billion in the state’s coffers upon assumption of office.
He explained that the availability of funds enabled the administration to continue governance smoothly without the need for a supplementary budget.
The governor’s aide also refuted allegations of financial mismanagement against the governor, and stressed that all allocations to lawmakers and constituency projects were transparently handled.
He maintained that the Fubara administration remained focused on development, stability, and good governance despite the political distractions in the State.
Oji expressed confidence that the impeachment moves would eventually be abandoned as legislators and the public become more informed, adding that the governor’s leadership has continued to reassure citizens and sustain political stability in the State.
King Onunwor
Accordingg to the statement, the Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF, noted with very grave concern the recent spate of political developments in Rivers State.
“Regrettably, these developments have now degenerated into the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the governor and deputy governor.
“This is a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order.
“This concern is heightened by the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria as a whole”, the statement said.
The Forum called on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe their swords and embrace peace.
“This should be guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity.
“All stakeholders must place paramount importance on peace, development and the welfare of the people of Rivers.
“We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the state,” the Forum said.
PANDEF commended President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
-
Niger Delta4 days agoPDP Declares Edo Airline’s Plan As Misplaced Priority
-
Sports4 days agoSimba open Nwabali talks
-
Nation4 days agoHoS Hails Fubara Over Provision of Accommodation for Permanent Secretaries
-
Niger Delta4 days ago
Stakeholders Task INC Aspirants On Dev … As ELECO Promises Transparent, Credible Polls
-
Niger Delta4 days ago
Students Protest Non-indigene Appointment As Rector in C’River
-
Rivers4 days ago
Fubara Restates Continued Support For NYSC In Rivers
-
Oil & Energy4 days agoNUPRC Unveils Three-pillar Transformative Vision, Pledges Efficiency, Partnership
-
News4 days agoDiocese of Kalabari Set To Commence Kalabari University