The Hood – Hearing from your neighborhood

Kasamu Visits Dapo Abiodun Ogun Governor Elect

The People’s Democratic Party Governorship Candidate in last Saturday’s Governorship Election, Prince Buruji Kashamu, visits the Governor-Elect, Prince Dapo Abiodun, at his Iperu Remo country home.

Kasamu was in a joyful mood as he congratulates the governor elect prince Dapo Abiodun.

Guber polls: South South hails Nigerian military over deployment of troops to protect voters

The South-South Coalition for Credible Leadership has described as a welcome the deployment of military troops to the region ahead of the Saturday’s governorship and house of assembly elections.

The coalition said the action would further boost the confidence of electorate during the polls.

Briefing newsmen on Thursday, Success Timothy, the Coordinator General of the group, said the deployment is necessary following the success of the troops in some south-southern states during the national assembly and presidential election on February 23.

According to him, the presence of troops during the elections proved to be the right decision in view of the fact that acts of politically motivated violence were limited to a few instances.

Success said the he pockets of violence witnessed in some parts of Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers state would have been more widespread but for the presence of troops.

According to him, “Interestingly, the Niger-Delta, where political leaders clamored most against military presence for the election, recorded more of the instances of violence and ballot snatching during the exercise. It is logical that soldiers should be withdrawn from areas that were largely peaceful during the polls of two weeks ago to allow for the deployment of higher number of troops to the places that recorded violence.

“Meanwhile, we observed that the personnel of the Nigerian Army were able to maintain peace and prevent political brigandage while adhering to acceptable rules of engagement. They fear of abuse and intimidation of the civilian population, which opponents of military deployment had used to back up their argument, turned out to unjustified as law abiding citizens had nothing to be apprehensive about. Only attackers that had intended to deprive other people of their right to life were gunned down in exchange of gunfire with troops in Rivers state.

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The South- South Coalition for Credible Leadership therefore passes a vote of confidence on the Nigerian Army and its personnel. They have the capacity to support security operations in the regions towards ensuring that elections hold without citizens being afraid for their lives or worrying that their votes will not count because ballot box snatchers. Their presence in the entire Niger-Delta region will ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order by any group of persons.

“We passed this vote of confidence cognizant of the campaign of calumny being waged against the deployment of the military for the elections. It does not take long to decipher the intent of those opposed to troops being in the Niger-Delta during this period. These people comprise of opposition political parties that lost in the presidential and National Assembly elections because they were unable to use thugs to snatch and stuff ballot boxes just as they were unable to intimidate voters.

“The other sets of people opposed to seeing troops in the Niger-Delta are the militants and sabotage economic infrastructure in the region as well as those that have their sight set on kidnap for ransom. These are backed up by separatist elements, including those that belong to groups that the courts have outlawed. They are apparently scared that the presence of the military in the area will yield credible intelligence that can be used to dismantle their non-election related criminality.

“It is most unfortunate that the criminal intentions of the aforementioned groups are being hidden behind the façade of ‘the opposition’ and for marshalling weak arguments against the deployment of troops to secure the country during the elections. The fake news they are peddling is that the Army is the region to favour particular candidates. This must rank among the greatest lies told so far in 2019.

“We note the charge by the Chief if Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai, to troops and commanders to do better during their deployment for Saturday’s election. Such decisive and responsive leadership has contributed to the sterling performance that the Nigerian Army displayed during the previous elections. His acknowledgement of the few instances of violence and a commitment to correct these errors is laudable for this gives the assurance that there will be improved voters’ turn out once the electorate are reassured that they are safe.”

100 inter-faith clerics predict peace, prosperity in Buhari’s second term

There will be abundance, surplus and serenity across Nigeria in President Muhammadu Buhari’s second-term, according to 100 Inter-faith Clerics.

These 100 clerics had earlier predicted Buhari’s re-election at the February 23 polls after holding a 40-day prayer and fast last year.

As forecasted, the incumbent emerged victorious, defeating Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In its usual trend of accurate and unbiased prophecies, the religious leaders have predicted enormous gains in the next four years.

The 100 clerics who are members of the National Inter- Faith and Religious Organizations for Peace made the declaration at the grand-finale of the 3- Days Thanksgiving and Salat Al- Shukur held in Abuja.

Speaking on behalf of the Islamic clerics, Sheik Ibrahim Bulama expressed that the co-inhibition of both religions is a testament of president Buhari’s impeccable personality.

“ We prayed and fasted for 40 days seeking the face of God for divine direction for Nigeria in our quest for greatness. We identified with President Muhammadu Buhari with a firm conviction that he would take Nigeria to the promised land. We also backed up our belief with prayers and supplements to Allah the most merciful and beneficent.

“ And he heard our prayers and supplication by granting unto us our heart desires by the resounding victory recorded by President Muhammadu Buhari at the elections. Consequently, I say we have all done nobly.

“ I want you all gathered her that there would indeed be a reward for the sacrifices in making supplications on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari for his success at the polls.

“ In our actions, we have exhibited a resolve that Nigeria under Muhammadu Buhari is on the path to glory. In our prayer sessions, Allah indeed made us understand the uniqueness of the personality of Muhammadu Buhari in terms of his uprightness and sincerity of heart and purpose.

“ We have so far exhibited that resolve to identify with an upright man whose integrity is unquestionable. Those who submit themselves completely to Allah and do good have grasped the Firmest Handhold. The result of all affairs is with Allah. (Surah Luqman: 22)

“ Muhammadu Buhari has submitted himself entirely to Allah, and this much has been exhibited in his words and actions since 2015. We are grateful to Allah for the rare gift of President Muhammadu Buhari to Nigeria in whom we are pleased.

“ My brethren, the uniqueness of this occasion is the fact that we have displayed a love towards one God and one nation in the interest of peace and tranquillity. And the anointing on President Muhammadu Buhari has reinforced our belief that we are on the right track on the journey towards greatness in this country.

Speaking on behalf of the Christian clerics, Arch Bishop (Dr) Julius Ediwe, added that anyone opposed to the president is challenging God’s authority.

This is because Mr Buhari is the anointed choice for Nigeria as revealed during the 40-day prayer and fast.

The cleric, Provost of the South-South College of Bishops, was particularly critical of some naysayers in disguise as prophets who forecasted defeat for the incumbent.

“ Brothers and Sisters, let me make it clear here about statements coming from some supposed men of God describing the elections as rigged and not in the interest of the people. I am taken aback with such a statement, and in my capacity as the Provost of the South-South College of Bishops, I abhor such statement because God is not a man that he should lie,” he stated.

“ When it was revealed during the 40 days’ prayers and fasting that President Muhammadu Buhari would win the elections, where were they? Or are they insinuating that they have a monopoly of the Kingdom heritage?

“ My brothers and sisters, I stand before you as a servant of God to say that God is indeed on the throne and for those that think otherwise should have a rethink. I say this with all authority that President Muhammadu Buhari was indeed Gods choice for Nigeria because I prayed and heard him clearly when he stated that Buhari is the chosen one to take Nigeria to greatness.

“ I want to assume here today that one of the reasons for the display of anger because President Muhammadu Buhari won the elections might be as a result of the victory rally that was aired on the television stations across the country.

Both groups, however, enjoined other Nigerians to pray and support the president to lead the country to greatness.

The Labour Party Mega rally in Abeokuta South constituency 2 in Ogun state, on Wednesday 6th of march 2019, witnessed a huge turnout of the town’s residents.

People in their hundreds trooped out to support one of their sons, igbalaye Wasiu Ayodel (IWA) who is contesting for the post of house of Assembly in the march 9 gubernatorial and house of Assemblies election.

Labour party supporters across the constituency were seen carrying placards and other promotional materials for House of Assembly Candidate at the rally held at Sapon, kuto, isabo, ijeja among others in Abeokuta.

Addressing the audience, the chairman of labour party comrade Abayomi Arabambi, stated that voting for LP affirms continuous and better development in the State.

Arabambi who taught the people how to identify the party on the ballot paper, also told them to stay with their votes afterwards.

IWA while addressing supporters at the event promised to transform Ogun state if elected by providing drugs for our health care centers, gives out empowerment to youth, give widows at least 5 thousand naira every month, she added.

IWA urged the LP members and supporters to shun violence but to use their votes to defend their rights.

Leaders of ethnic groups, Okada riders, road transport unions and National Union of Local Government Employees also attended the event.

Shocking: Bello Yabo Accuses Sen. Wamakko of APC with Homosexuality

The Sokoto cleric, Sheikh Bello Yabo has challenged the senator to take him to court and he will present evidence
In a widely circulated video trending online across Sokoto state social media, a top Islamic cleric Sheikh. Bello Yabo accuses Senator wamakko of APC of engaging in homosexual with minors, the cleric also challenge the senator who is also the father of APC in the state to take him to court if he is lying.

In the video, which is circulated in Hausa, the cleric was heard saying some of the victims whom were mainly young men have expressed their readiness to serve as witness should the need arises, this is coming at a time when Sokoto state will be joining other states for the conduct of the 2019 Governorship elections schedule by INEC to hold on 9th March, 2019 where the APC senator fielded his stooge in the APC to contest against the incumbent Governor Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal whom analysts see as the favorites to win the elections.

Those questioning Buhari’s victory are challenging God’s authority — Bishop Ediwe

President Muhammadu Buhari’s victory at the presidential election is divine, hence those opposed to it are challenging “God’s authority” according to foremost Christian preacher Arch Bishop (Dr) Julius Ediwe.

Dr Julius spoke at the second day of the ongoing Inter-Faith Clerics for the celebration of President Buhari’s victory held at the Unity Fountain, Abuja.

Despite massive propaganda by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate Atiku Abubakar, Mr Buhari of the All Progressive Congress (APC) was re-elected in fascinating fashion.

Bishop Ediwe isn’t surprised by the president’s overwhelming triumph, especially after it was revealed when some Christian and Islamic clerics met in a 40-day prayer and fast prior to the polls.

The cleric, Provost of the South-South College of Bishops, was particularly critical of some naysayers in disguise as prophets who forecasted defeat for the incumbent.

He, however, urged these critics not to oppose God’s choice and instead pray for the president.

“ I won’t say I am surprised at the composition of the audience here. I would instead say I am moved to tears so much that I asked myself, could this be happening in Nigeria? Could a gathering a people from different faiths praying for a common goal happen here in Nigeria?

“ God is indeed faithful to his word and his people. When it was declared here some months ago that the Lord revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari would emerge victorious at the polls, many doubted us and called us all sort of names. But we preserved.

“ I, therefore, ask today been the 2nd day of the Thanksgiving and Salat Al-Shakur service that are we not sharing in the kingdom of light? In the same vein, in Surah Al-Baqara, 153, it is stated that “O ye who believe! seek help with patient perseverance and prayer; for Allah is with those who patiently persevere.”

“ What does this tell us? It merely tells us on the oneness of God, and that was why we have been able to assemble here together and united in one voice, spirit, body and soul.

“ They are also angry for lack of knowledge of the Buhari phenomenon. They also need to understand that just like God singled out Job as a man of integrity, he also singled out President Muhammadu Buhari as a man of integrity. And God always identifies with the pure in spirit.

“ Is it not funny on how some men of God prophesied that President Muhammadu Buhari was going to lose the elections? December 2018, an Anglican church prophet, Udoka Okechukwu, prophesied that Atiku Abubakar of the PDP would defeat President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 election.

“ On February 12, 2019, few days to the presidential election, the general overseer of Evangelical Bible Outreach Ministries Int’l (EBOMI), Prophet El-Buba, said President Buhari would lose the election.

“ The presiding Bishop of Divine Seed of God Chapel Ministries, Ibadan, Prophet Wale Olagunju, in October 2019, claimed that Buhari would lose to Atiku Abubakar.

“ My brothers and sisters, we can find the answers to the false prophesies in the book of Romans 8:31, “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?

“ Let me once again thank you all for your constant prayers towards the success of President Muhammadu Buhari at the elections. And I am not sure anyone of us here regardless of our ethnicity or religion would ever doubt the oneness of God.”

Former Ogun Speaker dumps ADC, joins Dapo Abiodun

A former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Titi Oseni-Gomez, has defected from the African Democratic Congress to the All Progressives Congress.

Newsjaunts gathered that she would be working with her supporters for the success of the governorship candidate of the APC, Dapo Abiodun, at the Saturday polls.

Oseni-Gomez, who contested under the platform of the ADC for the Ogun Central Senatorial District at the last National Assembly election, said she made the decision after consulting with her family members, constituency and other party stakeholders.

“I have moved to the APC. It is confirmed,” she told our correspondent on the telephone on Tuesday night.

Politicians and their supporters in Ogun State have been forging alliances as the Saturday governorship election draws near.

Our correspondent reported last Friday that another senatorial candidate of the ADC, Deji Ashiru, who contested for the Ogun East Senatorial District, defected to the APC.

Oseni-Gomez and Ashiru will now be working against the governorship candidate of their former party, Gboyega Isiaka, who has the endorsement of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The APC flag bearer, Abiodun, while reacting to the development through his aide, Emmanuel Ojo, said he was gladdened by the news.

He said, “Before anyone could emerge a senatorial candidate, you will agree with me that such a person must have a lot of political influence. And you know politics is a game of numbers. So, we are happy she has finally agreed to join us; it is a plus to us. We are looking forward to a great relationship with her and her supporters.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s swashbuckling victory at the presidential election is already bridging the religious divide among Nigerians.

This was evident as Christian and Islamic leaders, under the aegis of Inter-faith clerics, joined forces to celebrate the president’s overwhelming triumph.

Mr Buhari was returned by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of main challenger Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In recognition of this remarkable feat, several renowned religious heads, Monday, led thousands of their followers to the Unity Fountain in Abuja to begin a three-day praise and worship program.

Majority of these clerics similarly organized a 40-day prayer and fast for the president’s re-election.

Sheik Usman Mohammed, co- Chairman, NIFROP, in his remark revealed that Mr Buhari is God’s choice, calling on Nigerians to back the president with their prayers.

“ I warmly welcome you all faithful to this thanksgiving service dedicated to the victory of president Muhammadu Buhari at the recently conducted presidential elections.

“ As you all might know, we as a group converged at this same venue to pray in unity for 40 days for the success of the president at the elections and also for God to grant him good health throughout the electioneering campaigns.

“ I recall that after the 40 days’ prayers, we solicited the support of Nigerians for President Muhammadu Buhari as he is God sent to deliver the country from evil.

“ We also prayed that those with intent to cause trouble to be put to shame and their evil intentions comes to nuts. And we thank the Almighty God for his mercies upon us as a country and as a people.

“ Brethren, the elections have come and gone, and Nigeria is still standing as one united and robust country. The elections have come and gone, and it is evident that the forces of darkness have all been defeated by the almighty God, the ruler of humanity.

“ We are gathered here to express our gratitude to the Almighty Allah for his show of love for Nigeria, and also for putting the enemies of Nigeria to shame through the outcome of the presidential elections.

“ My dear brothers and sisters, now that we have a President with a new mandate of 4 years, it, therefore, behoves on us not to relent on our prayers for a peaceful and successful tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari as he pilots the affairs of the country to greater success.

“ We also have to pray for Allah the Most Merciful to grant him good health as he governs the country for the next four years. Whoever intercedes for a good cause will have a reward therefrom, and whoever intercedes for an evil cause will have a burden therefrom. And ever is Allah, over all things, a Keeper.

“ We must come together in this period to lend our support to him as always to succeed for he needs our prayers and support.

“ We also call on all well-meaning Nigerians regardless of their political inclinations, religion or ethnicity to extend their support to President Muhammadu Buhari for Almighty Allah has destined him that he would lead Nigeria to the promised land.

” My brothers and sisters, we all know “ that God indeed loves Nigeria for giving us this rare breed human in President Muhammadu Buhari. A man that exudes integrity and selflessness. A man that God has chosen to lead the people of Nigeria to the promised land. A man whose heart is so transparent.

“ My brothers and sisters, we are indeed grateful to Almighty Allah for the great things he has done for us, and that is why we are gathered here to show appreciation and gratitude.

“ We must know that we are duty bound to continue to pray for President Muhammadu Buhari from our various places of worship when we leave here. This is a task mandated by Almighty Allah on us to ensure that he, President Muhammadu Buhari succeeds.”