Presidential candidate for theAll People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga,has presented his policy proposals during a meeting with the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA) on Tuesday, October 22. His speech focused on reforms aimed at enhancing Ghana’s economic environment.
A key aspect of his plan is the introduction of a flat-rate billing system for electricity and water, which would replace the current meter-based system.
According to Ayariga, under this model, utility payments for landlords would be based on the type of property they own, simplifying the billing process and promoting fairness in utility costs.
“There will be no metre for water and electricity in an APC government. The metering system is not effective and short-changing Ghanaians.”
Hassan Ayariga, stressing the need for a change in mindset, called on Ghanaians to take responsibility for the nation’s development.
He emphasised the importance of transparency within the presidency and urged the government to put the interests of citizens and businesses at the forefront of its policies.
Among his bold policy proposals, Ayariga outlined plans to establish a national data system and implement a comprehensive national development strategy. He also introduced the idea of an “economic lockdown,” designed to stimulate local productivity and address critical issues across multiple sectors.
In a sweeping tax reform initiative,Ayariga vowed to reduce the current 32 taxes to just five. He also promised to stabilise the Ghanaian cedi and significantly raise the minimum daily wage from 18 to 300 cedis.
To tackle corruption, he proposed implementing a two-week salary payment cycle and introduced a free port policy, which would allow for duty-free importation of goods.
The Presidential Candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has voiced his concerns over Ghana’s excessive dependence on imported goods and laid out his plans to tackle this issue if he becomes president in 2024.
During an interview on Channel One TV’s Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu, Ayariga proposed taking decisive actions, including possibly halting the import of food and other goods, to stimulate local production and promote domestic consumption.
His plan involves enforcing an economic “lockdown” within his first 100 days in office, aimed at boosting local manufacturing and cutting down the reliance on imports.
According to Ayariga, such measures would lead to economic independence, help stabilize the cedi, enhance productivity, and create jobs for Ghanaians.
To ensure the success of this strategy, he plans to establish 24/7 manufacturing hubs, positioning Ghana to produce its own goods, become self-reliant, and reduce its dependence on external markets.
“When they started the compilation of the voter register, I witnessed these two major political parties bring in foreigners from Togo, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire and other neighbouring countries to come and register as Ghanaians and become Ghanaian voters.
“I have witnessed NDC, and NPP go to the schools, bringing young boys who are less than 18, and guaranteeing for them to become 18 and register. So they are the ones spoiling the register.”
The Asante Professionals Club (APC) has expressed its deep concern over the rising incidents of ethnocentric attacks targeting peace-loving Asantes and, most notably, the revered Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
In a strongly worded statement, the APC condemned these unwarranted acts, calling on all Ghanaians to reject divisive rhetoric that undermines national unity and respect.
The APC emphasized that such attacks not only offend the Asante people but also pose a threat to the core values of unity and harmony that bind the country together.
“As proud Asantes, we are resolute in our commitment to safeguarding the dignity and heritage of our people. We stand for unity, strength, and cultural pride, with our rich traditions rooted in a centralized governance system built on respect for customs and values,” the statement noted.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the club pointed out, is not just a symbol of Asanteman but a figure of national importance whose leadership transcends ethnic boundaries.
“Our King, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, symbolizes the cultural heritage and unity of Asanteman. As the custodian of our traditions, he occupies a role of immense cultural and spiritual significance, providing leadership, wisdom, and moral guidance to the Asante community and beyond,” the APC emphasized.
The APC further highlighted Otumfuo’s pivotal contributions to national development over his 25-year reign, noting his commitment to advancing peace, education, and social cohesion throughout Ghana. His initiatives, such as the Otumfuo Educational Fund, have benefited numerous Ghanaians, including non-Asantes, underscoring his reputation as a unifying national leader.
“Otumfuo’s kindness and empathy transcend the boundaries of Asanteman, extending to all corners of the country, reflecting his deep commitment to national unity,” the club added.
One example of this is his leadership in the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, a major healthcare institution serving the northern sector of the country.
The APC also reminded critics that Kumasi, the heart of the Asante Kingdom, has long been known for its hospitality and inclusivity, allowing non-Asantes to live freely and engage directly with Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. His reign, the group stated, has been marked by respect, progress, and inclusivity, with a legacy that promotes national peace and development.
As part of its message, the APC cautioned critics to cease their “distasteful acts” of attacking Otumfuo and Asantes with divisive rhetoric.
“We urge all peace-loving Ghanaians to join us in rejecting any divisive or ethnocentric rhetoric that seeks to erode the peace, respect, and unity that are the bedrock of our society,” the statement concluded.
The flagbearer of the All-People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Hassan Ayariga, has officially announced Rev. Dr. Samuel Worlanyo Mensah as his running mate for the upcoming December 7 elections.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, September 4, where Dr. Ayariga expressed confidence that this partnership would secure victory for the party.
Rev. Dr. Mensah, who serves as the Head Pastor and Presiding Bishop of Christ White House Chapel in Ghana, was chosen for his strong moral character and integrity.
Dr. Ayariga emphasized that his running mate’s religious background makes him “a man of God, so no corruption,” reinforcing the APC’s commitment to a clean and transparent government.
Earlier this year, in June, Dr. Ayariga outlined his plans to strengthen the Ghanaian economy, which include banning the operations of forex bureaus to stabilize the cedi against foreign currencies.
He also proposed banning the importation of certain foodstuffs to encourage local farming and boost domestic production. Dr. Ayariga believes that Rev. Dr. Mensah’s expertise and philosophy, which focus on economic growth and social justice, make him the ideal partner to help turn the country’s economic fortunes around.
Rev. Dr. Mensah accepted the nomination and was sworn in immediately, signaling the start of the APC’s campaign to win the upcoming election.
Dr. Ayariga praised his running mate’s diverse experience and respected voice in Ghana’s economic and leadership landscape, expressing optimism that their combined efforts would resonate with voters across the nation.
The All People’s Congress (APC) flagbearer, Dr. Hassan Ayariga, is proposing a constitutional reform that would require anyone running for president to resign from their current role if they win their party’s nomination.
Dr. Ayariga asserts that this reform would address potential conflicts of interest, particularly preventing the misuse of state resources during presidential campaigns.
He also argued that it would help prevent any misuse of power by individuals currently serving in high positions, such as the vice presidency.
He stated, “Ghana should pass a constitutional instrument (CI) to require a sitting Vice President to step down if they are elected as a flagbearer to run for president. A new Vice President should be appointed to replace the Vice-Presidential candidate for presidential elections.”
In line with this proposal, Dr. Ayariga has urged Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to resign from his role to eliminate any conflicts of interest and fully dedicate himself to the presidential campaign.
Dr. Ayariga is also calling on President Akufo-Addo to appoint a new Vice President before the December elections, stressing the importance of maintaining accountability and transparency as the election approaches.
Read his full statement below;
Ghana should pass a constitutional instrument (CI) to mandate that a sitting Vice President must step down if he/she is elected as Flag bearer to run for president, and a new Vice President should be appointed to replace the Vice Presidential candidate for presidential elections.
The reasons are twofold; first, the sitting Vice President will be compromising his/her position as Vice President; second, the sitting Vice President will be using government resources and state funds to run for president.
Therefore, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should resign as Vice President of Ghana.
This will promote fairness and integrity in the electoral process.
The Founder and leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has voiced strong criticism against Ghana’s leadership, advocating for a significant transformation in the country’s political sphere.
In an interview with Johnnie Hughes on 3FM Sunrise Morning Show on March 26, Ayariga likened the role of leadership to that of fatherhood.
He differentiated between biological fatherhood, which is unchangeable, and the father of the nation, asserting that while a biological father cannot be replaced, the nation’s father, or its leadership, can be changed.
“What we need are basics, the standards, yet over 67 years after independence, we still cannot provide constant supply of water, constant supply of electricity, good roads. These are the basics, I’m taking about Hospitals, proper schools, infrastructure, we still cannot make these things available to our people after 67 years of independence” he said.
Highlighting the crucial role of change in fostering progress, Ayariga emphasized, “Change is a key to new life. When you make changes, you get new life but if you refuse to change you will be where you are and be stagnant.”
He criticized the practice of recycling political leadership, particularly between the two dominant parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), stating “This is what over the years we’ve been doing, recycling of those who were supposed to be changed. There is a difference between change ad recycling. What we need is a change not recycling NDC or NPP, we’ve been recycling the two 8 years NDC, 8 years NPP,” he added.
Mr Ayariga emphasized the necessity for change in national leadership, particularly in addressing the persistent failures of past administrations.
Pointing to the inadequacies in providing essential services such as water, electricity, healthcare, education, and infrastructure, even after 67 years of independence, Mr Ayariga underscored the urgent need for improvement in these fundamental areas.
He criticized the lack of progress in fulfilling these basic needs and called for a renewed focus on delivering them to the Ghanaian people.
Mr Ayariga stressed the importance of change in driving progress, noting that refusing to change would lead to stagnation.
He criticized the practice of recycling political leadership between the two dominant parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), advocating instead for genuine change rather than the continuous rotation of the same political entities.
Encouraging Ghanaians to explore new alternatives, Mr Ayariga urged citizens to consider entrusting him with leadership, citing his commitment to his family and entrepreneurial endeavors as evidence of his reliability.
He pledged to prioritize the nation’s well-being and development if given the opportunity to lead, emphasizing the importance of trust and accountability in governance.
Leader and founder of the All People’s Congress (APC) and a former presidential candidate for the People’s National Convention (PNC) Hassan Ayariga, has announced that his party is aiming to secure a budget of $100 million in preparation for his candidacy in the 2024 presidential elections.
He made the disclosure during an appearance on TV3’s Hot Issues on February 17, 2024.
Responding to the host’s question on what his budget is, Mr. Ayariga said: “Its a lot; we are looking at $100 million to win the elections.”
According to him, any party that seeks to win an election in 2024 is expected to prepare for nothing short of a ‘whooping’ “$52000 million”.
However, he looks forward to winning “at least 23–25 constituencies in the country.”
The former PNC presidential candidate went on to accuse the giant political duo, i.e., the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), of turning the country into a business centre.
“You know, over the years, the NPP and NDC have turned Ghana into a business centre,” he added
The All People’s Congress (APC) is set to host its National Delegates Congress in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital to select the party’s Presidential Candidate for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
The party would also use the opportunity to elect the party’s National Executives. The National Executive elections (Congress) are scheduled for Friday, March 8.
The schedule for the event includes the picking and filing of nominations for National Executive positions, which is set to take place from February 20 to March 2, 2024.
Following the congress on March 9, party members will participate in a parade along the principal streets of Kumasi. Additionally, they will pay courtesy calls on religious and traditional leaders, as well as other stakeholders in Kumasi as part of the post-congress activities.
Already, the APC has opened picking of nominations and filing for Constituency Elections which commenced on February 1, and slated to end on February 27, 2024.
According to the party, elections will also be conducted within the same period.
This decision was announced after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held its National Executive Committee meeting on the 27th of January, 2024. The meeting was chaired by the party’s National Chairman and founder, Dr Hassan Ayariga.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) outlined the agenda for the party in the upcoming general elections.
The party gave out the timeline for the picking of nomination forms and filing for election of Constituency Executives, Regional Executives and National Executives.
Picking and filing of nominations for Regional Executive Elections also began on February 1, but will end on February 28, at the various regional offices. Elections will however be held on the March 2, 2024.
Meanwhile, nominations forms for the party’s parliamentary elections ahead of the December polls will be opened on March 1, 2024.
All aspiring parliamentary candidates are entreated to pick their forms at the National Headquarters and pay the necessary fees to party’s bank account or party’s momo account.
The All People’s Congress (APC) will host its National Delegates Congress in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital to elect it’s National Executives as well as the party’s Presidential Candidate for the 2024 general elections.
Picking and filing of nominations for National Executive positions is scheduled for February 20, to March 2, 2024 and National Executive elections (Congress) will be held on Friday, March 8.
On March 9, party members will be floating on the principal streets of Kumasi and as well pay courtesy call on religious/Traditional leaders and some other stake holders in Kumasi.
Already, the APC has opened picking of nominations and filing for Constituency Elections which commenced on February 1, and slated to end on February 27, 2024.
According to the party, elections will also be conducted within the same period.
This decision was announced after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held its National Executive Committee meeting on the 27th of January, 2024. The meeting was chaired by the party’s National Chairman and founder, Dr Hassan Ayariga.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) outlined the agenda for the party in the upcoming general elections.
The party gave out the time line for the picking of nomination forms and filing for election of Constituency Executives, Regional Executives and National Executives.
Picking and filing of nominations for Regional Executive Elections also began on February 1, but will end on February 28, at the various regional offices. Elections will however be held on the March 2, 2024.
Meanwhile, nominations forms for the party’s parliamentary elections ahead of the December polls will be opened on March 1, 2024.
All aspiring parliamentary candidates are entreated to pick their forms at the National Headquarters and pay the necessary fees to party’s bank account or party’s momo account.
The All People’s Congress (APC) has indicated that nominations forms for the party’s parliamentary elections ahead of the December polls will be opened on March 1, 2024.
All aspiring parliamentary candidates are entreated to pick their forms at the National Headquarters and pay the necessary fees to party’s bank account or party’s momo account.
The National Executive Committee of the party, unanimously agreed to host its National Delegates Congress in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital to elect it’s National Executives as well as the party’s Presidential Candidate for the 2024 general elections.
Picking and filing of nominations for National Executive positions is scheduled for February 20, to March 2, 2024 and National Executive elections (Congress) will be held on Friday, March 8.
On March 9, party members will be floating on the principal streets of Kumasi and as well pay courtesy call on religious/Traditional leaders and some other stake holders in Kumasi.
Already, the APC has opened picking of nominations and filing for Constituency Elections which commenced on February 1, and slated to end on February 27, 2024.
According to the party, elections will also be conducted within the same period.
This decision was announced after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held its National Executive Committee meeting on the 27th of January, 2024. The meeting was chaired by the party’s National Chairman and founder, Dr Hassan Ayariga.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) outlined the agenda for the party in the upcoming general elections.
The party gave out the time line for the picking of nomination forms and filing for election of Constituency Executives, Regional Executives and National Executives.
Picking and filing of nominations for Regional Executive Elections also began on February 1, but will end on February 28, at the various regional offices. Elections will however be held on the March 2, 2024.
The All People’s Congress (APC) has opened picking of nominations and filing for Constituency Elections which commenced on February 1, and slated to end on February 27, 2024.
According to the party, elections will also be conducted within the same period.
This decision was announced after the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) held its National Executive Committee meeting on the 27th of January, 2024. The meeting was chaired by the party’s National Chairman and founder, Dr Hassan Ayariga.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) outlined the agenda for the party in the upcoming general elections.
The party gave out the time line for the picking of nomination forms and filing for election of Constituency Executives, Regional Executives and National Executives.
Picking and filing of nominations for Regional Executive Elections also began on February 1, but will end on February 28, at the various regional offices. Elections will however be held on the March 2, 2024.
Picking and filing of nominations for National Executive positions is scheduled for February 20, to March 2, 2024 and National Executive elections (Congress) will be held on Friday, March 8.
Meanwhile, all aspiring parliamentary candidates are entreated to pick their forms at the National Headquarters from 1st of march 2024. All fees shall be paid to the party’s bank account or party’s momo account.
The National Executive Committee of the party, unanimously agreed to host its National Delegates Congress in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital to elect it’s National Executives as well as the party’s Presidential Candidate for the 2024 general elections.
On March 9, party members will be floating on the principal streets of Kumasi and as well pay courtesy call on religious/Traditional leaders and some other stake holders in Kumasi.
The founder and presidential candidate of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has highlighted the party’s active engagement across all 16 regions of Ghana in preparation for the upcoming political contest.
In an exclusive interview on Happy98.9 FM’s “Fact Sheet” with Reynolds Agyeman, Ayariga affirmed, “We are trying, and I believe we’re very much active and visible in all 16 regions in the country.”
He outlined the party’s proactive measures, stating,“We are currently putting banners across and have printed about 1.5 million banners dispatched to the various regions.”
Ayariga underscored the physical presence of the party, disclosing the establishment of additional offices in various regions with staff working tirelessly.
Expanding on their ambitious initiatives, he stated, “We are still rolling out a number of strategic plans to ensure that even a 2-year-old child can recognize APC and Hassan Ayariga.”
Ayariga’s overarching objective is to make the party and its leader a pervasive presence in the daily lives of Ghanaians. “So that when you come back from school, hospitals, work side, the first image you see is Hassan Ayariga and the APC,” he emphasized.
The APC leader’s comments illuminate the party’s endeavors to fortify its on-the-ground presence, employing a comprehensive approach involving widespread banner distribution and the establishment of numerous offices nationwide.
Ayariga remains confident in the APC’s capability to compete with formidable candidates from other political parties in the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Notably, Ayariga will face off against the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, and the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) John Dramani Mahama.
The entry of Alan Kyeremanten, founder of the newly established Movement For Change, adds a new dimension to the political landscape.
As other political parties, including the Convention People’s Party (CPP), gear up to select their flagbearers and independent candidates enter the scene, Ghanaians anticipate a dynamic political landscape.
Founder of the All People’s Congress (APC), Hassan Ayariga, has lent his support to the allegations made by the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) implementing strategies to ensure that no formidable opposition emerges in the forthcoming 2024 general elections.
During an appearance on the Class Morning Show on Thursday, September 28, 2023, Mr. Ayariga affirmed the claims put forth by the NDC, suggesting that the current government has aligned the Electoral Commission, security services, and the judiciary in its favor in preparation for the 2024 elections.
Mr Ayariga explained that: “Because when the smaller political parties decided to go to court and we got the injunction application against the Electoral Commission, [from carrying out the limited voter registration exercise] you saw what happened, it was thrown to the dustbin. So clearly what it means is that the Chief Justice did not want to listen to such an application, so if the NDC is saying that, of course there’s iota of truth in this, you cannot just debunk it because they themselves have done it in the past.”
The leader of the APC, Hassan Ayariga, has put forward a proposal advocating for a constitutional amendment that would prevent any government from having the authority to appoint an Electoral Commissioner.
“So they[NDC] know what they’re talking that any anytime they are all in power they keep changing the Electoral Commission to their own and why would you keep changing an Electoral Commissioner every time your party was in power and so I would even say that the Electoral Commissioner should not be elected by the President of the day, we should have a constitution that makes them independent. None of their commissioners should be elected by the president or appointed by the president,” Mr Ayariga proposed.
Mr Ayariga stressed: “Those allegations the NDC has put out there there’s some iota of truth in it.”
Mr. Ayariga underscored the detrimental consequences of Presidents being responsible for appointing Electoral Commissioners. He recounted an incident in the Dome Kwabenya Constituency, his place of residence, where despite his driver and friends voting for him, the Electoral Commission reported that he received no votes, leaving him with a tally of zero votes.
“He stood there, he voted for me, but when they counted them I didn’t get one single vote, but he voted, his wife voted, friends of mine within the community voted, but I got zero. My agent was there, they counted the votes and I was given the number, when they were recording I got zero.
“I got 422 votes in Suame, my Parliamentary candidate got 600 votes, when they were writing they wrote 200 for my parliamentary candidate and they gave me 22 votes and when they contested they asked him that what is Ayariga going to do with 400 votes and the Electoral Commissioner was there,” Mr Ayariga intimated.
On Thursday, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is scheduled to appear before the Presidential Election Petition Court.
This information was disclosed by Chris Uche, SAN, the lead counsel representing Atiku Abubakar and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in their ongoing petition.
The petition, registered as CA/PEPC/05/2023, challenges the outcome of the presidential election held on February 25, which declared President Bola Tinubu as the winner. The respondents in the case include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), President Bola Tinubu, and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
During the hearing, Uche informed the court that the INEC chairman would testify about the conduct of the disputed presidential election. Uche also expressed his desire for the respondents, particularly Tinubu and the APC, to be prepared and not caught off guard.
Before Prof. Yakubu’s appearance, the petitioners presented their 19th witness, Alex Ter, who is a lawyer, politician, and the National Coordinator of the PDP’s National Situation Room.
However, Abubakar Mahmoud, SAN, representing INEC, objected when the witness was about to adopt multiple statements. Mahmoud argued that the petitioners’ reply on the additional statements was not pleaded in accordance with the provisions of the law. He requested the court to dismiss it and uphold the objection. Mahmoud also stated that their detailed reasons for the objections would be communicated during the final addresses.
In response, Uche, representing the petitioners, informed the court that the objections raised by INEC had been argued, and the ruling on them was reserved by the court.
“Whatever objection that INEC has should be kept aside, “ Uche said.
He therefore, urged the court to overrule the objection and allow the process go on.
He told the court that they are tendering Manual for the conduct of the 2023 election.
He said he will be tendering video clips of broadcast, by the chairman of INEC on the preparation for the election and that of Festus Okoye National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC on the election.
The also said that he will be tendering European Union (EU) election observers mission broadcast alongside the transcripts and the certificates of authenticity of the three videos.
He said this was pursuant to Section 84 of the Evidence Act.
He also tendered INEC I-reV screen shots of the portal as of March 18 and March 19.
Also tendered was I-reV results portal at the pulling units of March 1 and the transcripts and certificates of authenticity.
INEC did not object but Tinubu and APC objected, but all the respondents reserved their responses until their final written addresses.
Under cross examination by INEC’s lawyer, Mahmoud, the witness admitted that he was not at the National Collation Center but was at the PDP situation room in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He also admitted not being an ICT experts but that he based his report from information obtained from agents of the PDP at the collation centers.
The witness faulted INEC for not transmitting presidential election results electronically, adding that calculation errors led the electoral body into grave errors .
Also cross examined by Akin Olujimi SAN, counsel for Tinubu, the witness said that he came to the conclusion that the presidential election was invalid by reason of corrupt electoral practices as related to him by PDP agents.
Testifying as the petitioners ‘ 20th witness (PW20) was Olutunji Shelle.
He alleged during cross examination by INEC counsel that there were some secret pulling units set up by APC in Lagos.
He however said he did not visit any.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the petitioners have called 20 witnesses so far out of 100 the told the court their would call.
Meanwhile, the five-man panel led by Justice Haruna Tsammani adjourned until tomorrow for further hearing of the petition.
Information reaching the Independent Ghana is that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is allegedly engaged in vote-buying as Nigeria heads to the poll.
According to social media user @tamicute_mina, the party is distributing US dollars to people living in Ondo state, Irele local government,
Per reports, the APC is targeting the rural areas. The reason for this is currently unknown.
APC is sharing dollars in ondo state, irele local government. Their targets are the villages… This is not a fake news
According to information obtained by SaharaReporters, the governorship candidates who have been expelled by the African Action Congress intend to meet with Festus Keyamo, spokesman for the APC-presidential PCC’s campaign council, on Wednesday.
According to SaharaReporters, the estranged AAC candidates intend to meet with Keyamo in order to convince him of their commitment to the ruling All Progressives Congress and Bola Tinubu, the party’s presidential candidate.
Four of the party’s governorship candidates were kicked out: Iboro Otu, from Akwa Ibom; Ray Kene, from Enugu; Ahmed Aliyu, from Kwara; and Dr. David Joel Charima, from Taraba, for “gross violations of the party’s constitution.”
It was found out that
It was learnt that the meeting would be held to iron out monetary and other benefits they would get to switch alliances from the AAC to the APC.
“They have a meeting with Festus Keyamo on Wednesday. They plan to meet Keyamo to sell themselves to APC and Tinubu,” a source told SaharaReporters on Tuesday night.
The concerned state chapters of the AAC expelled the candidates after they refused to reply to queries issued to them within the stipulated period. Their actions or inactions were deemed to be “insubordination” to the party’s constitution and punishable under the same law.
Chariman of Taraba State was queried for engaging in anti-party activities but he ignored the query, prompting his expulsion.
Similarly, in Akwa Ibom State, Otu disregarded a query bordering on “gross violation of the constitution, set rules, and directives of the African Action Congress.”
The expelled candidates were “advised to desist from further transacting any business whatsoever on behalf of the Party or parading” themselves as its representatives.
Meanwhile, in a letter signed by fourAAC governorship candidates, the party was asked to reconsider the punishment meted out to their colleagues.
The letter was signed by Akeem Olayiwola, Lagos; Joseph Obele, Rivers State; Olugbeja Mekunnu, Oyo; and Benjamin Ewaoche, Benue State.
The statement read in part, “We humbly wish to appeal that the four (4) Governorship Candidates. They are Iboro Otu- Akwa Ibom. Ray Kene- Enugu; Ahmed Aliyu – Kwara and Dr. David Charima of Taraba state.
“Sir, we are solicitors in this regards. We are careful not to say anyone is wrong or right. But we cannot be careful to say our party needs unity and not division, we have however, spoken to ourselves (the candidates) and ready to work with the party and to get the desired results. We hereby appeal that the National Executive Council should reconsider our brethren, and consider others in various positions carrying the flag of the party with them in the states (Deputies, Senate’s, etc.).”
The All Progressives Congress’ (APC) Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is running for president, is heard on tape urging that his supporters should use all means necessary to gain power.
He said this while addressing some party members after his Chatham interview in London.
The video which has since been making rounds showed how Tinubu urged his campaign members to “fight, snatch and run away with political power“.
He said: “Political power is not going to be served in a restaurant. They don’t serve it a la carte. At all cost, fight for it, grab it and run with it.”
Tinubu’s statement brought about a loud cheer from members of the party who were present, accompanied by applause.
Sharing the video on his Twitter page, Dino Melaye, a member of the People’s Democratic Party wrote;
“How else will power be snatched through the ballot box if not a resort to violence, electoral violation, and other unorthodox methods of grabbing power? It is now very clear why Tinubu refused to sign the Peace Accord. The international community and security agencies take note.”
Reacting to Tinubu’s statement, some Nigerians have shared their thoughts on social media.
Abiodun of Lagos: Sir Dino if that is your understanding of that statement, then it is unfortunate. Meaning they say resides in man and not in words so good luck.
Emmanuel Atser: Tinubu won’t succeed, he is not God.
Tinubu bragged that he hasn’t lost the election but God is going to put him to shame.
He will lose the 2023 election and his money.
D Senator: He is not God, but what of U that said he won’t win, are U too God?
Exactly the mistake U guys are all making.
Oluwatoyin Adeyemi: You guys should open your eyes very well and match him war strength to war strength. He is aware that his deceit stopped working long ago. Imagine Tinubu choosing the next INEC chairman. Most of his opponents will just have to flee to exile. Fight to stop him. I say my own o!
Winny: Fact. BAT is everything a leader should not be
You Know Who: Political power is not something you snatch. It’s something you bargain for with the people. What happened to the government of the people, by the people and for the people?? This looks like a government for only Apc and their cohorts. Nawa ooo.
KADOZO: “At all cost,” Y’all think Atiku and BAT will allow voters to come out where PO will have more votes? Anyways, 4 newborn babies were kidnapped in a hospital in Anambra today sha in case you don’t know.
umoru I. Abdulkadir: I’m optimistic he (Tinubu Ahmed) will sign it because he’s a law-abiding citizen.
A reminder sir, prior to your dramatic video kindly note that there’s nothing like Minister of London.
Uthman Mujeeb Olalekan: Nigeria and Nigerians are in real trouble.
THE Chief Executive Officer, of Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Nigeria, Princess Gloria Akobundu, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, National Integrity Movement (ANIM) to focus on issues-based campaigns rather than criticising and castigating the candidatesof other parties.
Akobundu made the call after the APC support group conferred matronship status on her during a courtesy call in Abuja yesterday.
She said the call was necessary in view of the fact that President Muhammadu Buhari made a vow at the 2022 UN General Assembly to ensure that next year’s elections are violence-free and credible.
“Our party should lead by example by conducting a violent-free sensitisation, campaigns and elections just as the President had vowed at the UN General Assembly, where he promised the world to conduct free, fair and credible elections. So, as members of the APC and Nigerians, we should help him to realise that mandate.
“We must refrain from bringing down any character of persons of our country. It is not the best way to go. Because at the end of the day, when the elections are over, what you have said during the electioneering campaigns will be used to judge your country, not our party.
“When a leader emerges, he emerges for the country, not for the party. We must be able to work harmoniously so that we can be able to deliver the next leader for our country.
“Let’s join hands and work for the Africa and Nigeria we all desire to have. So, let us go out and make sure we discuss issue based campaign.”
Akobundu also stated that though there were still some challenges in the country, President Buhari had acquitted himself remarkably well as the leader of the country.
According to her, those who said Buhari had not done well were either playing politics or refusing to check the facts.
She explained the president had achieved a lot in the areas on which he anchored his development agenda despite the herculean problems he met on the ground.
“This administration has done its best so far and I encourage the party to be able to speak up on these achievements and advocate for peace. It is good to build on the gains of this administration.
“I encourage us to shun violence and embrace a peaceful campaign in line with His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari’s pledge to conduct a peaceful election and to uphold the integrity, vision and legacy of the APC.”
Akobundu added that the second peer review conducted by AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria has supported national planning and boosted investors’ confidence in the country.
Presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured the North that he would defeat the rag-tag army of bandits and end insecurity with modern technology if elected president in 2023.
Speaking at the Arewa Joint Committee Interactive session with Presidential Candidates holding at the Arewa House Kaduna on Monday, the former Governor of Lagos State eulogized the late Premier of defunct Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello Sardauna who he described as a reference point, saying together with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tarawa Balewa, laid the solid foundation of a united Nigeria.
The Presidential hopeful who was accompanied to the event by some APC Governors of Northern extraction promised that his economic policies would among others, leverage Nigeria’s abundant solid mineral deposits and enhance the economic well-being of the nation.
He said he would use his experience in building human capital, industry and institutions which had made Lagos what it is today to make Nigeria a much better and developed country.
Okechukwuwas shot dead on Saturday night in Unadu town.
Some unidentified gunmen have reportedly killed Hon. Lucky Okechukwu, the youth leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Although details of the incident are still sketchy, SaharaReporters gathered that Okechukwu was shot dead on Saturday night in Unadu town.
A chieftain of the party in the state, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak for the party, confirmed the incident.
“Yes, it is true. I don’t know his real name but we received information that he was shot dead by unknown gunmen last night. If the party wants to speak on the incident, it is definitely going to issue a statement on that,” the source said.
The police have yet to confirm the incident and when SaharaReporters called the spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, he neither answered the calls nor replied to a text message sent to him, seeking information about the incident.
The Minister of Labourand Productivity, Chris Ngige, has refused to publicly endorse the presidential candidate of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, for the 2023 general elections.
Ngige, former Senator and governor of Anambra State, also refused to endorse his successor, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, publicly insisting that Nigeria elections are secret ballot.
The Minister who stated this while featuring Channels TV programme, said he would make his choice at the ballot.
“I’m not active in politics for now because I am facing national assignment,” he said when asked his preferred candidate between the APC’s Tinubu and the Labour Party’s Peter Obi.
“Both of them are my friends. My choice will be in the ballot box. It is a secret ballot. I shouldn’t tell Nigerians what I would do secretly.”
He however noted that Tinubu performed incredibly well in Lagos and laid “a solid foundation” for the state, an often-used campaign argument made by APC supporters.
When pressed on who he felt would win the 2023 elections, Ngige said the big parties had problems.
“We have problems in APC; PDP has their own. Their own is two times our own. Our own is family disagreements. If we get our acts together, my party will sweep,” he said.
The United Kingdom Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the party’s presidential candidate, is hale and hearty, contrary to speculations on social media.
Joseph Adebola, Chairman, APC UK Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), said this in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.
He described the speculations that Tinubu was sick and went abroad to seek medical attention as untrue.
“Unfortunately for them, their evil thinking against Tinubu will not come to pass because they are not God, the giver of life.
“For the records, Tinubu had been having strategic meetings with APC critical stakeholders here in the UK and had remained his vibrant and confident self.
“In one of the recent engagements in London, the APC Presidential Candidate, Tinubu held a strategic meeting with some members of his campaign planning team.
“The team included Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi, Deputy Director of the PCC planning committee, Chief Pius Akinyelure, and a host of progressives, political gurus, here in the UK,” Adebola said.
He said that the meeting was convened primarily to take decisions on some lingering issues, ahead of the APC presidential campaign.
He added that the meeting concluded with a photo session at the venue, which was currently trending on social media.
“One of the viral photos on social media showed Asiwaju and his team walking back into the house from the garden.
“The session is a further confirmation of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s active state and daily engagements.
“We, however, will not be distracted by negative propaganda against Asiwaju and the APC as we are determined to move on, believing God and the Nigerian electorate for the enthronement of Tinubu presidency in 2023,” Adebola said.
He advised the naysayers to get themselves busy with more profiting ventures in their interest.
