After listening to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech, it is impossible to overlook a glaring and troubling omission: the failure to recognize Chief Solomon Lar’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic journey. This omission not only diminishes the sacrifices of one of Nigeria’s most courageous democracy champions but also raises serious questions about the President’s regard for Plateau State and its people.
Chief Solomon Lar, a towering figure in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, demonstrated unparalleled courage and patriotism. His daring act of delivering the historic letter to the tyrannical General Sani Abacha, risking his life for the freedom and democratic integrity of our nation, is a testament to his dedication.
This act not only cemented his place in Nigeria’s democratic history but also set a powerful example for future generations. How then, can President Tinubu, in a speech meant to celebrate our democratic milestones, overlook such a monumental contribution.
This omission raises serious questions about President Tinubu’s regard for Plateau State and its people.
Chief Solomon Lar was not just a national figure; he was a proud son of Plateau, a state that has continuously championed the cause of democracy in Nigeria. Ignoring his contributions is tantamount to dismissing the sacrifices and efforts of the Plateau people in our collective democratic journey.
Moreover, this oversight comes at a time when Plateau State is conspicuously absent from the federal executive council following the resignation of Senator Simon Lalong as Labour Minister. This exclusion is a violation of the principles of federal character as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. Section 14(3) of the Constitution states:
“The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few States or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that Government or in any of its agencies.”
By failing to include a representative from Plateau State in his cabinet, President Tinubu not only undermines this constitutional mandate but also sends a disheartening message to the people of Plateau: that their contributions and sacrifices are undervalued. Whatever is holding up the replacement of a federal minister after Senator Simon Lalong’s resignation to take up his Senate seat last year should be sorted out immediately. Plateau State must participate fully in President Tinubu’s government.
Plateau State has historically been a political magnet and ligament of Nigeria. The state has hosted numerous political party primaries, serving as a neutral ground where crucial decisions that shape the future of our country are made. From the days of independence, Plateau has been a steadfast contributor to Nigeria’s political landscape. The contributions of Plateau State are evident in its historical and ongoing role in fostering national unity and political discourse.
Does President Tinubu truly have the interest of Plateau State at heart? This is a question that every Plateau indigene must ponder.
The President’s actions—or lack thereof—suggest a disregard for the principles of equality and fairness that our democracy stands for. Plateau State deserves better recognition and representation, given its significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The journey towards democracy is paved with the sacrifices of many and the contributions of Plateau State cannot and should not be overlooked. It is time for President Tinubu to rectify these oversights and demonstrate his commitment to the principles of democracy, equality, and justice for all Nigerians. Plateau State remains a vital part of Nigeria’s democratic fabric, deserving of recognition and respect.
Pam Ayuba,
Journalist/Public Commentator,
Wrote from Jos, Plateau State.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kogi State has condemned the ban on political rallies and convoys imposed by the state government.
State Chairman of SDP, Mr Ahmed Attah, issued the condemnation in a statement signed by the SDP Press Secretary, Isaiah Ijele, on Tuesday in Lokoja.
The party described the ban as an attack on democratic principles and a blatant attempt to silence opposition voices.
Attah urged Gov. Ahmed Ododo to learn from the past and avoid repeating old, harmful practices that have hindered the state’s progress.
“The party views this action as an attempt to suppress the freedom of association and movement enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Attah insisted that the state is not at war and urged the government to focus on development instead of engaging in political manoeuver.
He warned that Kogi must not return to the dark days of repression, particularly against the opposition. (NAN)
The Presidential Candidate of the defunct National Conscience Party (NCP) in the 2015 general election, Chief Martin Onovo, has said the only unity and emergence of a strong candidate could secure victory for the coalition of opposition leaders in 2027.
Onovo, an activist and Head of Policy Positions, Movement for Fundamental Change (MFC), said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.
He was reacting to the recent announcement of an opposition coalition to challenge the All progressives Congress (APC) in the next presidential election.
Presidential Candidate of the defunct National Conscience Party (NCP) in the 2015 general election, Chief Martin Onovo,
“The coalition of opposition leaders needs a candidate that is vigorous; a strong candidate to brighten its chances in 2027. The coalition needs somebody with a clear agenda and a clear vision.
“The opposition needs a candidate with a strong background of integrity. Nobody is perfect, but you need a strong background of integrity.
“The opposition needs somebody who is morally and mentally competent, and physically fit. The opposition does not need the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or any old person if it wants to win.
“The opposition doesn’t need any old person now. It is time to use the energy of the young.
“They must present a strong candidate, who is strong morally, mentally, and physically, with a clear patriotic agenda to move the country forward, ” Onovo said.
He added that the coalition had a lot that could work to its advantage in 2027 and urged members to work with unity of purpose to achieve convincing victory.
Also speaking on chances of the ruling party in 2027, the politician said APC could remain in power if the challenges arising from subsidy removal and other economic issues were addressed by the present administration.
He also said President Bola Tinubu still had the opportunity to address the security challenges in the country to win in 2027 ,and remain in power ,if interested
Onovo, who noted that he was not part of the organisers of the mega coalition, said that he had always been part of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) since 2019 elections.
He called on all Nigerians to unite for the development of the country, ensuring leadership that would fulfill the country’s aspirations.
NAN recalls that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, had recently announced the formation of a coalition, aimed at unseating Tinubu in 2027.
Atiku made the declaration during a press conference in Abuja, attended by several opposition politicians, including former APC members.
Among those present at the even were the 2023 Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, represented by Dr Yunusa Tanko; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal and a former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai. (NAN)
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River on Monday granted Gov. Bassey Otu and his deputy, Mr Peter Odey, an automatic ticket for the 2027 general election.
Speaking at the APC Secretariat in Calabar, the party’s Chairman, Mr Alphonsus Eba, urged other party members aspiring for political positions to begin their consultations.
Eba clarified that apart from the governor and his deputy, no other individual had been given an automatic ticket by the party.
He encouraged other aspirants to return to their constituents and seek their support ahead of the elections.
“The State Working Committee and the State Executive Committee of APC met today and resolved that Governor Otu will be the party’s sole candidate in 2027,” he said.
He explained that the decision was based on the principle of continuity, stating, “Nobody changes a winning team. The governor and his deputy will fly the party’s flag in 2027.”
He added that even if Otu was reluctant to run, the party would still present only one ticket with his name, as was done in 2022.
“We appeal to him to listen to the desires of party members and accept the nomination,” Eba stated.
He also praised the deputy governor, currently acting as governor, for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s actions in Rivers.
Eba noted that some individuals had misrepresented the state’s position. He commended the acting governor for clarifying that South-South governors had not consulted him before opposing Tinubu’s decision.
He applauded the President for restoring peace in Rivers, preventing a political crisis. (NAN)
