Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Osun LG Crisis: APGA Condemns Attacks on Innocent Citizens, Calls for Peace

 **OSUN LG CRISIS: APGA CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON INNOCENT CITIZENS, CALLS FOR PEACE**  



The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has strongly condemned the attacks on innocent citizens amid the ongoing local government takeover crisis between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State.  


In a press statement issued by the Chairman of the party, Wole Adedoyin, APGA expressed deep concern over the rising violence and tension in the state, emphasizing that the lives and safety of Osun residents should never be sacrificed on the altar of political conflicts. 


The party described the attacks as a blatant violation of democratic principles and called on all political actors to embrace peace.  


APGA noted that the crisis, which has led to unrest in various parts of the state, is a direct threat to the democratic stability of Osun. 


The party urged security agencies to intensify efforts in curbing violence and bringing perpetrators to justice to restore law and order in the state.  


“The lives of our people must be protected at all costs. No political ambition should be worth the blood of any citizen. We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and peaceful resolution instead of resorting to violence,” the statement read.  


APGA further stressed that democracy thrives on the rule of law, and any attempt to use force to achieve political objectives undermines the very essence of governance. 


The party urged both PDP and APC to act responsibly by calling their members to order and allowing due process to take its course.  


While expressing solidarity with the victims of the attacks, APGA encouraged residents to remain law-abiding and avoid being used as tools for political violence.  


APGA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peaceful political engagement and constructive dialogue in resolving disputes. 


The party pledged to continue working towards a political environment where democracy is upheld and citizens' rights are protected.  


As a party rooted in democratic values, APGA reiterated that power should only be attained through legitimate and constitutional means, not through intimidation or violence. 


It called on all political parties in Osun to prioritize the interests of the people above their political rivalries.  


Finally, APGA urged religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations to join in preaching peace and ensuring that Osun State does not descend into further chaos. 


The party remains resolute in its call for justice, peace, and unity among all Osun citizens.

Osun LG Crisis: APGA Condemns Attacks on Innocent Citizens, Calls for Peace

 **OSUN LG CRISIS: APGA CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON INNOCENT CITIZENS, CALLS FOR PEACE**  



The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has strongly condemned the attacks on innocent citizens amid the ongoing local government takeover crisis between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State.  


In a press statement issued by the Chairman of the party, Wole Adedoyin, APGA expressed deep concern over the rising violence and tension in the state, emphasizing that the lives and safety of Osun residents should never be sacrificed on the altar of political conflicts. 


The party described the attacks as a blatant violation of democratic principles and called on all political actors to embrace peace.  


APGA noted that the crisis, which has led to unrest in various parts of the state, is a direct threat to the democratic stability of Osun. 


The party urged security agencies to intensify efforts in curbing violence and bringing perpetrators to justice to restore law and order in the state.  


“The lives of our people must be protected at all costs. No political ambition should be worth the blood of any citizen. We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and peaceful resolution instead of resorting to violence,” the statement read.  


APGA further stressed that democracy thrives on the rule of law, and any attempt to use force to achieve political objectives undermines the very essence of governance. 


The party urged both PDP and APC to act responsibly by calling their members to order and allowing due process to take its course.  


While expressing solidarity with the victims of the attacks, APGA encouraged residents to remain law-abiding and avoid being used as tools for political violence.  


APGA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peaceful political engagement and constructive dialogue in resolving disputes. 


The party pledged to continue working towards a political environment where democracy is upheld and citizens' rights are protected.  


As a party rooted in democratic values, APGA reiterated that power should only be attained through legitimate and constitutional means, not through intimidation or violence. 


It called on all political parties in Osun to prioritize the interests of the people above their political rivalries.  


Finally, APGA urged religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations to join in preaching peace and ensuring that Osun State does not descend into further chaos. 


The party remains resolute in its call for justice, peace, and unity among all Osun citizens.

Monday, February 17, 2025

Don’t Turn Osun State into a War Ground, APGA Tells PDP and APC

 

DON’T TURN OSUN STATE INTO A WAR GROUND, APGA TELLS PDP AND APC


 

The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under the leadership of its State Chairman, Wole Adedoyin, has expressed grave concern over the recent political tensions in the state, calling on both the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to desist from actions that could destabilize the peace and unity of Osun State.

Speaking after a stakeholders' meeting of the party held yesterday in Osogbo, Wole Adedoyin warned the two major political parties against turning Osun State into a war ground due to their selfish political ambitions. He stated that the interests of the people of Osun should remain the primary focus, rather than fueling a cycle of violence and unrest for personal or party gains.

Recent developments have seen Governor Ademola Adeleke accusing his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola, of trying to incite violence in the state by using security forces to reinstate local government chairmen and councillors elected under the APC in the controversial October 15, 2022 elections. Governor Adeleke’s allegations have heightened political tensions and have the potential to spiral into further instability.

Governor Adeleke’s claim is based on his assertion that the Court of Appeal, Akure Division, only allowed the appeals filed by the APC-elected chairmen but did not mandate their reinstatement. He emphasized that this development is a matter of legal interpretation, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene to prevent former Governor Oyetola from escalating matters that could threaten the peace in Osun State.

In response, Osun APC spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, dismissed the accusations, advising Governor Adeleke to seek recourse through the Supreme Court instead of engaging in what he described as baseless blackmail against Oyetola, who now serves as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy. Olabisi clarified that Oyetola had not directed any individual or group to incite violence, countering Adeleke’s claims by accusing him of deliberately attempting to discredit his predecessor.

APGA’s Chairman, Wole Adedoyin, in his statement, emphasized that such political disagreements should not be allowed to escalate into violence. He pointed out that the people of Osun have suffered enough from political instability, and the ongoing rivalry between the PDP and APC should not result in bloodshed or turmoil for the innocent citizens of the state.

Adedoyin further stated that the use of security forces for partisan gains is a dangerous precedent and could lead to a breakdown in law and order in Osun State. He urged both Governor Adeleke and Oyetola to act responsibly and resolve their issues through dialogue, legal channels, and mutual respect for the rule of law, rather than resorting to actions that could lead to unnecessary conflict.

The APGA Chairman also reminded the leaders of the PDP and APC that the security of lives and properties is paramount. He condemned the rising instances of political violence and called for all political parties in the state to collaborate for peace and unity rather than furthering personal and party interests that could put the future of Osun State at risk.

“We cannot afford to let the politics of Osun State degenerate into another conflict zone. Our people deserve peace, progress, and development. We, as leaders, must put the welfare of the citizens above political rivalry. Both parties must take a step back and focus on what truly matters — the growth and stability of Osun State,” Adedoyin urged.

 

Friday, February 14, 2025

How APGA Pioneered the Digitization of Membership Register in Nigeria

 

HOW APGA PIONEERED THE DIGITIZATION OF MEMBERSHIP REGISTER IN NIGERIA


 

By Wole Adedoyin

In recent years, political parties around the world have embraced digital platforms to streamline membership registration, improve transparency, and ensure more efficient engagement with their supporters. In Nigeria, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) stands out as a trailblazer in this regard, having pioneered the digitization of its membership register. Under the visionary leadership of Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa, the national chairman of the party, APGA has set a remarkable precedent in the Nigerian political landscape, becoming the first party to fully digitize its members’ registration data.

The journey towards a fully digital membership register for APGA was one marked by strategic planning, innovation, and the unwavering commitment of the party’s leadership. As part of a broader effort to modernize the party and enhance its organizational structure, Barrister Ezeokenwa recognized the need for a robust, transparent, and secure database that would not only keep track of members but also provide real-time insights into the party’s activities. This foresight culminated in the introduction of the digital membership registration system, which is already transforming how political engagement and membership tracking are handled in Nigeria.

The introduction of the digital membership register is a testimony to Barrister Ezeokenwa’s commitment to modernizing APGA and setting it on a path of sustainable growth. With the vision of creating a more inclusive and participatory party, he recognized that traditional methods of membership registration were no longer sufficient in an increasingly digital world. The new system leverages customized software designed to capture member profiles, which are then authenticated and stored in a secure database. This data is updated periodically and reflected down to the polling unit level, ensuring that the party maintains an accurate and up-to-date record of its members at all times.

This digital initiative not only strengthens APGA’s internal structure but also provides a more seamless and transparent process for its members. By eliminating the need for paper-based records and reducing the chances of errors or manipulation, the system ensures that APGA's membership data is both accurate and secure. This is an important step towards fostering trust and accountability within the party, as it allows for more efficient communication with members and enhances the party’s ability to mobilize support during elections.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the national leader of APGA and Governor of Anambra State, has been a strong advocate for this groundbreaking initiative. The governor, alongside his wife Nonye and daughter Adaora, took part in the historic event of registering in the digital database at their ward in Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area. This moment marked a significant milestone not only for the party but for Nigerian politics as a whole. Governor Soludo’s participation in the registration process further emphasized the importance of this development, and his statement stressed the party’s commitment to leading the charge in modernizing political engagement in the country.

Describing the event as “historic,” Governor Soludo highlighted the significance of APGA becoming the first political party in Nigeria to fully digitize its membership registration process. He acknowledged the pivotal role the initiative would play in shaping the future of Nigerian politics, particularly in ensuring that party membership is accurately recorded and regularly updated. With the new system in place, the party will now have a national register that can be accessed and updated in real time, providing a comprehensive and reliable record of its membership nationwide.

Moreover, the digital database is linked directly to the voters’ register, making it easier for the party to cross-reference its membership data with the national electoral roll. This integration with the voter register is particularly important as it ensures that APGA's membership is accurately reflected in the electoral process, facilitating greater participation and engagement from the party's supporters in elections. By leveraging this technological advancement, APGA has set a new standard for other political parties to follow.

The process of online registration is straightforward and accessible to all Nigerians who wish to become members of APGA. Interested individuals can simply visit the party’s official website at www.apga.ng to complete the registration process. The platform is user-friendly and designed to ensure that even those with limited technological expertise can easily sign up. Once registered, members can update their profiles and stay informed about party activities and events.

The impact of this innovation extends beyond just APGA. The All Progressives Congress (APC), under the leadership of Dr. Umar Ganduje, has recently followed suit, contracting a private company, Tunmef Global Limited, to begin a nationwide digital membership registration process. This move by the APC, coming a year after APGA’s successful digitalization, shows the growing trend of political parties adopting modern technology to enhance their operations. Dr. Ganduje’s party aims to create a comprehensive and up-to-date database of its members ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling that digital membership registration is now an essential tool for political organizations in Nigeria.

The signing of the agreement with Tunmef Global Limited took place at the APC secretariat in Abuja, marking a significant step towards the party's own digital membership system. While APGA was the first to implement this transformation, the APC’s decision to follow suit highlights the importance of the initiative and its potential to reshape the Nigerian political landscape. It also stressed the role that Barrister Ezeokenwa and APGA have played in setting the stage for this technological shift in Nigerian politics.

As APGA continues to lead by example, Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa's vision for the party’s future becomes increasingly clear. His leadership has positioned APGA not only as a political force but also as a symbol of innovation and progress. The digital membership register is just one of the many ways that he has modernized the party, and it is likely that this initiative will continue to bear fruit in the years to come. As Nigeria’s political parties evolve and adapt to the digital age, APGA’s pioneering efforts will remain a key reference point for others to follow.

In addition to streamlining party operations, the digital database offers a host of other benefits. It improves communication between the party and its members, making it easier to disseminate information, coordinate events, and mobilize supporters. It also provides the party with valuable insights into the demographics and preferences of its membership, allowing for more targeted outreach and engagement strategies.

Furthermore, the digital database will enhance the party's ability to monitor its membership across different regions of Nigeria. With a system that allows for real-time updates, APGA will be able to quickly identify areas where it needs to focus its efforts and allocate resources more effectively. This will be particularly important in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, as the party prepares to mobilize its supporters and increase its presence across the country.

The success of APGA’s digital membership registration system is a testimony to the power of innovation and the importance of embracing new technologies in politics. Under the leadership of Barrister Ezeokenwa, the party has not only improved its internal processes but has also set an example for other political organizations in Nigeria and beyond. His vision, combined with the support of national leaders like Governor Soludo, has propelled APGA into the forefront of political modernization in Nigeria.

As other parties, including the APC, move towards digitizing their own membership systems, it is clear that the future of political engagement in Nigeria will be shaped by technology. APGA’s pioneering efforts will continue to influence how political parties interact with their members, ensuring that the country’s democratic processes remain inclusive, transparent, and efficient.

Looking ahead, the full impact of the digital membership register on APGA’s political fortunes remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: the party is now better equipped than ever to engage with its members, mobilize support, and play a leading role in shaping Nigeria's political future.

 

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Ganduje's Empty Boast: Anambra Remains APGA's Stronghold

 *GANDUJE'S EMPTY BOAST: ANAMBRA REMAINS APGA'S STRONGHOLD* 


By Wole Adedoyin 



The recent visit of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to Anambra State has sparked political discourse, particularly regarding his declaration that the APC will take over Anambra in the next governorship election. 


His statement, laden with political bravado, does not align with the reality on the ground, where the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under the leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has entrenched itself as the preferred party of the people.  


Ganduje’s vow is not only an affront to the democratic choice of Anambra citizens but also an underestimation of the resilience and political consciousness of Ndi Anambra. 


The APC’s ambition to wrest power from APGA in Anambra is not based on superior governance records but on mere political desperation. 


The people of Anambra have consistently rejected external political dominance, and this will not change anytime soon.  


Governor Charles Soludo, since assuming office, has demonstrated a level of governance that speaks directly to the needs of the people. His administration has prioritized infrastructural development, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Under his leadership, Anambra has witnessed a massive road construction drive, rehabilitation of schools, and a boost in agricultural productivity. These achievements resonate with the people, reinforcing their confidence in APGA as the party best suited for Anambra’s continued development.  


One of Soludo’s most remarkable feats is his effort in tackling insecurity, a challenge that has plagued many parts of Nigeria. Through strategic investments in security infrastructure, recruitment and training of local security personnel, and collaboration with federal security agencies, Anambra has seen a significant reduction in crime rates. Criminal elements that once terrorized the state have been pushed back, restoring peace and stability.  


Unlike the APC, which has failed to address the security crisis at the national level, Soludo has shown that leadership is about proactive governance and not empty rhetoric. The APC’s failure to secure lives and property across Nigeria has made its promise to "take over Anambra" even more laughable. How does a party that has failed in security at the federal level intend to convince Anambra people that it can do better than the current administration?  


Furthermore, Soludo’s economic blueprint is transforming Anambra into a hub of commerce and industry. His administration has supported small and medium-scale enterprises, encouraged investment in technology and innovation, and provided incentives for businesses to thrive. His push for a smart megacity aligns with his vision of a livable and prosperous Anambra.  


Ganduje’s visit and his misguided declaration ignore the reality that APGA is not just a political party in Anambra; it is a movement. The party embodies the Igbo spirit of self-determination, resilience, and progressive governance. APGA is deeply rooted in the hearts of Ndi Anambra, and its track record speaks louder than Ganduje’s hollow political threats.  


APC’s dream of taking Anambra in the next election is unrealistic. The people of the state are politically aware and will not trade good governance for the chaos and deception that have characterized APC’s leadership at the national level. If Ganduje and his party are truly interested in governance, they should focus on fixing the mess at the federal level before looking to destabilize a state that is thriving under APGA’s leadership.  


Governor Soludo’s administration has also prioritized education, improving the quality of teachers, and enhancing learning environments across the state. His free education policy for primary and junior secondary school students has eased the burden on parents and ensured that every child has access to quality education.  


Additionally, Soludo’s focus on healthcare is commendable. The renovation of general hospitals, provision of modern medical equipment, and recruitment of health workers have improved healthcare delivery in Anambra. The governor’s attention to public health issues, including disease prevention and emergency response, has positioned the state as a model for effective healthcare management.  


Anambra’s infrastructural transformation under Soludo is another testament to APGA’s competence. Roads that were once in deplorable conditions have been reconstructed, making transportation more efficient. The ongoing construction of strategic flyovers, bridges, and drainage systems further demonstrates the governor’s commitment to urban renewal and modernization.  


If APC truly believes in democratic principles, it should wait until 2030 when Governor Soludo would have completed his constitutionally guaranteed eight-year tenure. Until then, Anambra remains firmly in the hands of APGA, a party that has consistently delivered dividends of democracy to its people.  


It is also important to commend the National Chairman of APGA, Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the party. Since assuming office, Ezeokenwa has worked tirelessly to expand APGA’s reach, unify its members, and position the party for greater electoral success. His youthfulness, vision, and administrative prowess have revitalized APGA, making it a formidable force in Nigerian politics.  


Under Ezeokenwa’s watch, APGA has continued to grow beyond Anambra, gaining influence in other Southeastern states and beyond. His strategic leadership has ensured that APGA remains the dominant party in Anambra, defying the wishes of external political forces who seek to undermine the party’s stronghold.  


The APC’s tactics of trying to impose itself on Anambra through propaganda and political maneuvering will not work. The people of Anambra know what they want, and they have found a leader in Soludo who is delivering on his promises. No amount of external interference can change that fact.  


While Ganduje and the APC may continue to dream about an Anambra under their control, the reality remains that APGA is the party of the people. The achievements of Governor Soludo have solidified APGA’s place in the hearts of Ndi Anambra, and no amount of political intimidation can alter that.  


Instead of wasting time trying to destabilize a well-governed state, Ganduje should redirect his energy toward addressing the internal crisis in APC, a party that has been riddled with infighting, poor governance, and unfulfilled promises.  


The people of Anambra are not deceived by Ganduje’s political antics. They know that APGA represents their aspirations and that Governor Soludo is the leader they can trust. The APC should take a backseat and allow democracy to take its course.  


Governor Soludo’s tenure is a testament to the power of good governance. From security to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, he has shown that leadership is about service, not empty political declarations.  


Anambra remains APGA’s fortress, and the APC’s desperation will not change that. The people have spoken through their unwavering support for Soludo, and they will continue to stand by him until 2030 when his tenure expires. Until then, Ganduje and his APC should look elsewhere because Anambra is not for sale.


Wole Adedoyin is the Osun state Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Coordinator of the Progressive Writers Association of Nigeria (PWAN) and the APGA Press Corps. He can be reached via woleadedoyin@gmail.com.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

APGA National Chairman, Sly Ezeokenwa attends INEC’S Consultative Meeting with Political Parties

 

APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, SLY EZEOKENWA ATTENDS INEC’S CONSULTATIVE MEETING WITH POLITICAL PARTIES


 

By Wole Adedoyin

The incumbent National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, attended the First Regular Consultative Meeting with Political Parties held today, January 22, 2025, at the INEC Conference Room in Abuja. This important meeting, chaired by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, focused on preparations for the year’s electoral activities and other critical developments in the nation’s democratic process.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed gratitude to political parties for their cooperation in 2024, a year that saw the successful conduct of 51 re-run elections, bye-elections, and off-cycle elections, including the Ondo State Governorship Election. He noted the Commission’s resilience in addressing challenges such as office attacks and flooding incidents, which tested its operational efficiency.

The INEC Chairman highlighted the busy schedule for 2025, particularly the Anambra State Governorship election slated for November 8, 2025. He reminded political parties to adhere to the timelines for primaries, set between March 20 and April 10, 2025. The submission of activity schedules by political parties was emphasized as crucial for better coordination with the Commission.

Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa reaffirmed APGA’s commitment to collaborating with INEC in ensuring credible, transparent, and inclusive elections. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Ezeokenwa emphasized the need for political parties to take ownership of the electoral process by upholding democratic values and fostering peaceful conduct during elections.

One of the key highlights of the meeting was the announcement of the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, scheduled for February 21, 2026. Prof. Yakubu detailed the electoral timelines, including the issuance of the Notice of Election on February 26, 2025, party primaries from June 9 to June 30, 2025, and the commencement of campaigns on September 24, 2025.

The Commission also announced plans to resume nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) to address new voter registrations and relocations. APGA, through Barr. Ezeokenwa, assured its readiness to mobilize citizens, particularly youths, to participate actively in the exercise to strengthen voter inclusivity.

INEC used the platform to reiterate its long-standing advocacy for a more cost-effective method of filling electoral vacancies to reduce the burden of multiple bye-elections on its resources and operations. Prof. Yakubu called on political parties and other stakeholders to support legislative amendments to address this issue.

Ezeokenwa commended INEC for its proactive approach to tackling electoral challenges, especially its commitment to stakeholder engagements and transparency. He pledged that APGA would continue to uphold its philosophy of being a people-centric party that champions grassroots development and democratic ideals.

The meeting concluded with the distribution of electoral guidelines and timelines for upcoming elections to party representatives. This initiative reflects INEC’s commitment to inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability in its operations.

The All Progressives Grand Alliance remains dedicated to playing a leading role in deepening Nigeria’s democracy by promoting free, fair, and credible elections. APGA also urges all political actors to prioritize national interest over partisan gains as the country moves into another critical electoral cycle.

 

Gov. Soludo Congratulates APGA National Chairman Ezeokenwa on Birthday

GOV. SOLUDO CONGRATULATES APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN EZEOKENWA ON BIRTHDAY By Wole Adedoyin  The Governor of Anambra State and National Leader o...