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Hon Gabriel Zock: Elevating The Standard Of Representation

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By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

Like a resilient diver navigating the tempestuous waves of the Atlantic, Hon. Gabriel Saleh Zock’s initial term as the representative for Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency began amidst skepticism and critical remarks.

Doubts were raised about his ability to fulfill the expectations of his constituents, particularly regarding accessibility and other crucial aspects that impacted his re-election prospects.

Some political commentators tide his re-election bid to Appeal Court declaring the elections for the Kachia/Kagarko Federal Constituency inconclusive, necessitating a fresh election across the entire constituency.

Gabriel Saleh Zock, representing the APC, emerged victorious in the supplementary election, securing 42,461 votes—outpacing his nearest competitor, Umar Gurara of the PDP, who received 26,208 votes, while Austine Umar of the Labour Party trailed with 2,311 votes.

As he embarks on his second term, a clearer vision for Kachia/Kagarko, long envisioned, is coming to fruition. His credible representation has initiated a significant transformation in leadership style and problem-solving approaches, proving that this change is more than just rhetoric.

Zock’s return to the Green Chamber has marked a pivotal shift in the political landscape, solidifying his role as a pioneer of innovative strategies aimed at delivering the benefits of democracy and fostering development for the people of Kachia/Kagarko. His unwavering commitment and accountability have earned him the trust of his constituents, who believe in his mission.

Exemplifying credible leadership, Gabriel Zock prioritizes the needs of his community, tirelessly striving to enhance their quality of life.

Recently, he announced that a bill to establish the Federal College of Agriculture in Kagarko, Kaduna State, has successfully passed its first reading in the House of Representatives. He is determined to secure the institution by May 2025, emphasizing its potential to drive development in the area.

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Zock envisions the college as a hub for education and research, aimed at attracting investments to stimulate economic growth. His approach to leadership is characterized by integrity, selflessness, and a genuine desire to address societal challenges. His substantial contributions to community growth and development are commendable.

Hon. Zock is recognized as a powerful figure within the political landscape of Kachia/Kagarko, playing a crucial role in determining political outcomes in the region. His commitment to grassroots politics ensures that the voices and concerns of his constituents are heard and addressed.

Kagarko Local Government Area’s Executive Chairman, Hon. Nasara Rabo, praised Zock for significantly advancing the party’s principles and achievements during his second term.

He highlighted the empowerment of 500 women across the 22 wards of the Federal Constituency with N37 million in grants to support their businesses.

Additionally, N100 million was allocated to small and medium enterprises to enhance economic activities, along with the distribution of four vehicles valued at N36 million to campaign chairpersons and directors, and N15 million in cash to religious leaders for their peacekeeping efforts.

Gabriel Zock’s exemplary performance has set high expectations among the populace, marking a historic first for the Federal Constituency, according to Nasara.

The young lawmaker’s demeanor and humility are disarming, while his unassuming attire belies his extensive network and connections. He embodies the relentless drive, sincere passion, and determination to build a better society, serving as a model for others to emulate.

With these remarkable accomplishments and his inherent qualities, challenging him in an election would be a formidable task. He has forged an unbreakable bond with his constituents, ensuring his enduring influence in the political arena.

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Ighodalo vows to Appeal tribunal verdict upholding Okpebholo’s election victory

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 19 September governorship election in Edo, Mr Asue Ighodalo, has said he will challenge the tribunal’s judgment at the Court of Appeal.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Edo election tribunal, sitting in Abuja on Wednesday, reaffirmed Gov. Monday Okpebholo’s victory and dismissed the petitions from the PDP and Ighodalo.

Ighodalo, in a statement in Benin, said his decision to challenge the judgment aimed to protect Edo people’s collective rights and ensure they freely determine their future.

“Today, the Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal delivered its judgment on our petition challenging the outcome of the Sept. 21, 2024 election in our dear state.

“While we may not all agree with the verdict, we remain steadfast in our belief that the rule of law must continue as democracy’s foundational bedrock.

“Our pursuit of justice affirms our firm belief that Edo people’s right to freely choose their leaders through credible, free, and fair elections must always prevail.

“As a committed democrat, I respect the judiciary as the last hope of the common man and urge all Edo people to remain peaceful, calm, and law-abiding,” he stated.

Ighodalo said this was not the end of their journey but the beginning of a greater struggle for justice, democracy, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate.

He commended the people for their massive support, sincere love, and belief in their shared vision for a prosperous Edo, which had fuelled their journey.

“For us, this has never been about personal ambition but about our conviction to create a clear ‘Pathway to Prosperity’ for Edo while upholding democracy’s core values.

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“I have, therefore, instructed my legal team to proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge this decision, which we consider a serious miscarriage of justice.

“This is not about me or any single individual; it is about democracy’s essence, our collective right to determine our future, and our legacy for generations unborn.

“We remain resolute. We remain committed. We shall not waver in our pursuit of truth and justice,” Ighodalo said. (NAN)

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Reactions trail Edo tribunal judgement

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Mixed reactions have continued to trail the tribunal’s judgment affirming the election of Gov. Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the Sept. 19 governorship election in Edo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Edo election tribunal, sitting in Abuja on Wednesday, reaffirmed Okpebholo’s victory.

It dismissed the petitions filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.

Reacting to the judgment, the Edo chapter of the PDP expressed disappointment with the ruling delivered by the three-man election petition tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi.

Chris Nehikhare, the State Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee, said the party was waiting to receive the Certified True Copy of the judgment before making further decisions.

“PDP is disappointed with the judgment of the Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led panel.

“As a party, we are waiting for the Certified True Copy. We will study it and decide on our next course of action,” Nehikhare said.

Mr Aslem Ojezua, a former PDP chieftain who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), said he was unsurprised by the tribunal’s decision, as the petition lacked merit.

“What I expect now is for Ighodalo to congratulate Okpebholo and join hands in solving the problems confronting our people and communities,” Ojezua said.

He added that the verdict was clear, highlighting the distinction between legal and sensational issues.

Chief Dan Orbih, PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South), said the tribunal had spoken, and they could not question its ruling.

Orbih stated that PDP would now focus on bringing back members who left during the primary election that produced Asue Ighodalo as the party’s candidate.

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He emphasised that efforts would commence to rebuild the party in Edo State following the election setback.

Orbih blamed the PDP’s struggles on former Gov. Godwin Obaseki, accusing him of driving members away from the party.

“Unfortunately, the former governor brought distress, division, and disaster to the PDP.

“Today, I did not see his face among those at the tribunal, waiting for the judgment outcome.

“As it stands, lawyers will study the verdict and make a decision after a careful review of the well-established ruling,” he said. (NAN)

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Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal Confirms Monday Okpebholo as Governor

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The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has officially recognized Monday Okpebholo as the legitimate governor of Edo State.

In a series of three judgments, the tribunal rejected petitions submitted by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Action Alliance, and Accord Party.

The tribunal determined that the PDP did not present any witnesses to substantiate its claims of overvoting.

Specifically, the PDP failed to bring forth polling unit agents from the locations where they alleged electoral discrepancies occurred.

Furthermore, the tribunal noted that among the 19 witnesses presented by the petitioners, 14 were ward and local government agents, while the primary witness, who claimed to be a director of strategy for the PDP, had no involvement in the election’s execution.

Additionally, the tribunal remarked that the BVAS evidence submitted by the petitioners was inadequately presented.

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