Highlight

2019: Lamido appears before  Southern/Middle Belt leaders 

254

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Sule Lamido, is the fourth presidential aspirants to be  questioned on his plans from members of Southern and Middle Belt Forum led by Chief Edwin Clark.

Eminent leaders at the meeting included Pan-Niger Delta Forum leader, Chief Edwin Clark, Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, President-General of Ohanaeze, Chief John Nnia Nwodo, Middle Belt Forum President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu, among others.

The former Jigawa State Governor took questions, particularly on the restructuring of the country which the forum is pushing for, and his plans to revive the economy against the exponential growth in population.

Earlier, Clark told Lamido that the forum will only endorse an aspirant after everyone they had written to, including the President Muhammadu Buhari, gets the opportunity to be heard.

Nwodo explained that the forum took it upon themselves to speak with all presidential aspirants including the incumbent, because “we represent a wide degree of social cultural organisations in Nigeria. Our people are deeply upset by the state of our country and certain issues some of which we championed have become very critical to them as to taking decision as to who to rule this country.

“We believe that our country is at a cross road where leadership is critical to turn it around. We are reluctant to endorse a presidential candidate without giving him the opportunity to speak with us.

“The views that we represent are very obvious to you, we are irredeemable committed to restructuring of the federation of Nigeria knowing fully well that our present structure is a great hindrance to the development economically of our country and unity. And economic growth is so critical now.

“Our questions to you are attempt for us to have a deep understanding of your policies and be able to say that this is what Sule Lamido represents.”

Before the meeting went into closed door, Lamido on his part said he is willing to undergo any pain in order to serve Nigeria.

He said, “my aspiration is out of pure commitment and if I get elected, my assignment will be how do we restore trust among Nigerians and then how do we restore security. Because, the truth of the matter is that our people are living in fear with the menace of Boko Haram, kidnapping and Nigeria needs the right leadership and that I will do with your support and cooperation. That is why I say I feel very emotional because I don’t see why should be here by this time.”

Four aspirants have so far appeared before the forum at the Asokoro, Abuja residence of the Chief Clark.

They are former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; former Sokoto state governor, Attahiru Bafarawa; Sina Fagbenro of KOWA Party and Lamido.

Others in attendance are Air Commodore Dan Sulieman, Yinka Odumakin, Senator Stella Omu, Bassey Ewa-Henshaw, Godknows Igali, Simon Okeke, Gen. Zamani Lekwot, Mrs. Nne Nwafor, Maryam Yinusa, among others.

Leave a comment

Related Articles

FG urged to promote national unity, social cohesion using community-based events, initiatives

The Federal Government has been urged to take a more active role...

Carjacking in FCT: Police recover Land Cruiser Prado after high-speed hot chase

In a swift response to a distress call, the Federal Capital Territory...

Just in: Abuja Court remands 109 alleged foreign hackers in prison

No fewer than 109 alleged foreign hackers, including females who attempted to...

Lagos, Abuja airports receive full NCAA certification

Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport...

Day 3 of African Military Games: Nigerian Armed Forces Shine, Win 17 Medals

The Nigerian Armed Forces have made a remarkable impact at the ongoing...

FG raises N346bln at Nov. 2024 bond auction, reflecting strong investor interest

The Federal Government has successfully raised N346.155 billion at its November 2024...

Breaking: Supreme Court Nullifies National Lottery Act

The Supreme Court on Friday nullified the National Lottery Act 2005 enacted...

NNPC Ltd. hosts NSC boss, pledges support for revitalization of Nigerian football

In a significant move to boost Nigerian football, the Nigerian National Petroleum...

Nigerian youths essential to repositioning Africa, says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to youth...

Just in: Simon Ekpa ‘ll be extradited to Nigeria to face charges – Defence Headquarters

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has announced plans to extradite Simon Ekpa,...

NPA’s CEO Dantsoho Makes History as First Nigerian Chairman of PMAWCA

In a groundbreaking achievement, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian...

Save for rainy day, Federal Accountant General urges state govts, emphasizes transparency, accountability

In a bid to ensure financial stability during adverse situations and economic...

Sacked UNIZIK VC Odoh to Tinubu: You can’t fire me through press release

Sacked Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), in Awka, Anambra State, Prof....

UBA to empower MSME’s with wealth management strategies at its ‘Built to Last’ series

As part of its commitment to deepen the growth and sustainability of...

Olopade assumes office as NSC DG, promises new lease of life for Nigerian sports

Bukola Olopade had assumed office as the Director General of the resuscitated...

Amid High Inflation Rate, IMF Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Economic Reforms

International Monetary Fund (IMF) President Kristalina Georgieva and her team met with...

Nigeria’s Super Falcons Ajibade, Nnadozie, Nominated for 2024 CAF Women’s Player of the Year

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the nominees for the...

Just in: FG announces reshuffle of governing councils at FUOYE, Kogi varsity

The Federal Government has made changes to the governing councils of Federal...

Exclusive: Eguavoen Opens Up on Declining NFF Contract Extension, Reveals Reasons

Super Eagles Coach, Austin Eguavoen, has revealed why he declined the Nigeria...

Boost for Nigeria’s Oil Production As NNPC’s Utapate Crude Grade Hits Global Oil Market

In a major boost for Nigeria’s crude oil production, revenue generation, and...