EKO HOT BLOG reports live updates and results form the 2023 APC Presidential Primaries at the Eagles Square, Abuja
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced activities to elect its flagbearer for the 2023 presidential election.
The primary election is scheduled to take place at the Eagle Square in Abuja from Tuesday to Wednesday, June 7-8.
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Tinubu wins APC presidential ticket 2:23 pm
Former Lagos Governor Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has won the presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He polled 1,271 votes to defeat other aspirants at the party’s primary in Eagle Square, Abuja.
He defeated Rotimi Amaechi who scored 316 votes and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who got 235.
He was declared the winner of the contest by Kebbi Governor Abubakar Bagudu, who is chairman of the APC Election Management Committee.
He will square up with People Democratic People(PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and others at the 2023 general elections…READ MORE
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Final Result 2:24 pm
Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu: 1, 271
Emeka Nwajuba – 1
David Umahi – 38
Tunde Bakare – 0
Rotimi Amaechi – 316
Ahmed Rufai Sani – 4
Emeka Nwajuba – 1
David Umahi – 38
Yemi Osinbajo – 235
Rochas Okorocha – 0
Yahaya Bello – 47
Tien Jack Rich – 0
Ogbonnaya Onu – 1
Ahmed Lawan – 152
Ben Ayade: 37
Ikeobasi Mokelu: 0
President Muhammadu Buhari returns to Eagle square to witness the final phase of the Presidential primary. 12:29 pm
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Live APC presidential primary results
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After 17 boxes, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu now has 1069 votes – 11:41 am
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Boxes being counted
As sorting continues into the third hour, Bola Tinubu has taken the lead in the contest while Yemi Osinbajo, Rotimi Amaechi, Ahmad Lawan, and David Umahi, also have a number of votes counted in their names – 11:20 am
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Box 1
Bola Tinubu takes the lead in Box 1.
But it’s still a long way to go as boxes and boxes still remain to be counted.
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Tinubu in early lead; Osinbajo, Amaechi follow
Tinubu has jumped into an early lead in the race for the All Progressives Congress, APC, 2023 presidential ticket as sorting of ballots got underway.
Tinubu’s name was mentioned more often as organisers of the party’s presidential primaries at Eagle Square sorted two ballot boxes.
He is trailed by former Transportation Minister, Mr Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi; and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
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Convention officials consider counting already sorted ballots from Box 1 before sorting the ballots in Box 2 but shelve plan after deliberations, and continue sorting ballots in second box – 09:40am
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Voting ends, sorting of votes begins 8:07am
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Voting ends at APC National Convention – 7:45 am
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81 accredited delegates from Imo State called to cast their votes – 07:16 am
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33 accredited delegates from Gombe State called to cast their votes – 07:05 am
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Another delegate collapses 7:00am
Another delegate believed to be from Zamfara state collapsed on Wednesday morning at the Eagle Square at about 7.00am.
The middle-aged man said to be suffering from epilepsy was however revived before he was taken out of the square in an NSCDC ambulance.
The name of the man who collapsed shortly after delegates from Zamfara were called to cast their vote could however not be ascertained.
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42 accredited delegates from Zamfara State called to cast their votes – 06:54 am
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51 accredited delegates from Enugu State called to cast their votes – 06:45 am
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46 accredited delegates from Taraba State called to cast their votes – 06:38 am
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48 accredited delegates from Ekiti State called to cast their votes – 06:37 am
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52 accredited delegates from Edo State called to cast their votes – 06:28 am
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69 accredited delegates from Sokoto State called to cast their votes – 06:27 am
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Delegates from Osun State called to cast their votes – 05:34 am
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60 accredited delegates from Ogun State called to cast their votes – 05:26 am
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54 accredited delegates from Ondo State called to cast their votes – 05:07 am
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81 accredited delegates from Borno State called to cast their votes – 05:05 am
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74 accredited delegates from Niger State invited to cast their votes – 04:54 am
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64 accredited delegates from Benue State called to cast their votes – 04:49 am
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Delegates from Nasarawa State invited to cast their votes – 04:45 am
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Atiku Bagudu, chairman of the election planning committee of the party, announces that the voting will begin with Bauchi State at the right of the state box, followed by Kano State at the left – 04:33 am
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Abdulrahman Dambazau, chairman of the security committee, addresses the convention in an effort to regain control of the voting areas and resume voting – 04:26 am
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PHOTO: Tired delegates take a nap at the venue of the Presidential Primary 4:14AM
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PHOTO: Delegates from Kano queue up to vote in the APC Presidential Primary 3:55AM
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Voting disrupted as artisans gain access to the voting points – 03:51 am
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There are a total of 2,203 accredited delegates as voting begins – 02:03 am
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BREAKDOWN OF DELEGATES FOR PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY BY STATES
Abia 50
Adamawa 63
Anambra 63
Bayelsa 24
Benue 64
Borno 81
Cross River 54
Delta 73
Enugu 51
Ekiti 48
Edo 54
Ebonyi 38
FCT 18
Gombe 33
Imo 81
Jigawa 81
Lagos 60
Plateau 51
Katsina 102
Kebbi 63
Kwara 48
Kogi 63
Kaduna 61
Kano 126
Nasarawa 39
Niger 75
Ondo 54
Ogun 60
Oyo 99
Osun 90
Rivers 69
Sokoto 69
Taraba 46
Yobe 51
Zamfara 42
TOTAL 2, 203
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Buhari to APC delegates: We must choose knowledgeable, fair-minded person with sense of unity
President Muhammadu Buhari addresses the delegates.#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/K1ZmSvfzVS
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
President Muhammadu Buhari has asked delegates at the presidential primary election of the All Progressives Congress APC to choose a know, fair-minded nationalist who believes in the unity of the country as their presidential candidate for 2023 general elections.
Delivering his speech at the convention in Abuja on Tuesday, the President said that the person must also possess the strength of character to move the country forward.
He added that the delegates and the by extension the party members must not allow the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to drag the country backwards.
“We must choose a knowledgeable, fair-minded nationalist with a very strong belief in the unity of our nation, Nigeria with a strength of character to steer the country forward.
“We should not allow the PDP to drag our country backwards.
“Let’s work collectively in the interest of our great party”, Buhari said.
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To our dear delegates, when you vote tonight, know that your vote carries the answer to your prayers for our country and its future. – Vice President Yemi Osinbajo
To our dear delegates, when you vote tonight, know that your vote carries the answer to your prayers for our country and its future. – Vice President Yemi Osinbajo#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/3kPFdp9epH
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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I believe Nigeria needs a mother. But I am stepping down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Uju Ken-Ohanenye
I believe Nigeria needs a mother. But I am stepping down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Uju Ken-Ohanenye#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/JkT16m3qzh
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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Vote for me to extend Buharism – Ikeobasi Mokelu
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I didn’t come this far to chicken out. I am here to win – Yahaya Bello
I didn’t come this far to chicken out. I am here to win. – Yahaya Bello#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/VhUBwljLLn
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
I am a development agent. This country needs me. – Tein Jack-Rich
I am a development agent. This country needs me. – Tein Jack-Rich#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/6NHTFnUeWj
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
Nicholas Felix steps down for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo
BREAKING: I am stepping down for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo – Nicholas Felix#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/4cENYVhtte
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
I am not running for President to accumulate riches, but to save the lives of ordinary Nigerians. – Rochas Okorochas
I am not running for President to accumulate riches, but to save the lives of ordinary Nigerians. – Rochas Okorochas#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/dH3BlkhHOM
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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I am the most experienced of all the candidates. If you vote for me, I will improve the economy. – Rotimi Amaechi
I am the most experienced of all the candidates. If you vote for me, I will improve the economy. – Rotimi Amaechi#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/Is9rtx417y
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
Tunde Bakare calls for a one-minute silence for victims in the Owo terrorist attack, says won’t step down for any aspirant
Tunde Bakare calls for a one-minute silence for victims in the Owo terrorist attack.#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/kW5sMmg5D0
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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The APC should have zoned the ticket to the South-East. Where is the justice? – Ogbonnaya Onu
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I want to reconfirm my withdrawal from this race and support our leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Mohammed Badaru Abubakar
I want to reconfirm my withdrawal from this race and support our leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Mohammed Badaru Abubakar#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/Kte9P2iwhd
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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I will like to step down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Dimeji Bankole
It is only in unity and cohesion that we can meet our manifest destiny. I am stepping down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu. – Kayode Fayemi
It is only in unity and cohesion that we can meet our manifest destiny. I am stepping down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu. – Kayode Fayemi#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/PcngsJQVZM
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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Senator Ibikunle Amosun steps down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu
In the spirit of consensus building, I have stepped down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu – Ibikunle Amosun#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/ecd5gEe89e
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
Akpabio steps down, backs Tinubu
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Nigeria has to get the economy right for security to improve. As an economist, I have an idea about how to do this. – Dimeji Bankole
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Akpabio steps down, backs Tinubu
I am ably qualified to be your President. But I have stepped down for Bola Ahmed Tinubu. – Godswill Akpabio#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/aTEFGnpxUk
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
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Former Speaker, House of Representatives addressing delegates
Nigeria has to get the economy right for security to improve. As an economist, I have an idea about how to do this. – Dimeji Bankole#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/S64fB8zcXI
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
I ask that you give opportunity to an engineer to lead Nigeria. – Dave Umahi
Governor Dave Umahi thanked Buhari for allowing a free and fair presidential contest.
Whatever is the outcome of this convention I will abide by it. As Governor of Ebonyi State he has brought the state to be at par and more than some older state.
He said as an engineer, he has proved his mettle in Ebonyi on infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and much more, which he said he would replicate at ten centre, if elected
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Senator Ben Ayade called on APC delegates to make a change in the country.
He said he is young and understands the security and challenging problems of the country.
He said he was the only southern Governor that did not sign the anti-grazing law because he felt it was an insult to herdsmen
He said today he has garment, rice, and factories in Cross River State because he believes in job creation.
He also promised to address the rot in the education sector
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Senator Ajayi Borroffice if elected he would pursue a four point agenda – security, education, economy and healthcare. The professor and three- term Senator said he had never lost any election. Recalling his achievements in the Aerospace Management Agency when Nigeria launched four statelites, the first in Africa, he said he will turn things around with science and technology, if elected President.
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As President I will introduce student loans so every child can have access to education. – Ahmed Sani Yerima#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/ZzkDjo0NA7
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
Former Zamfara State governor, Ahmad Sani Yerima now addressing delegates. He promises to improve education and introduce student loans.
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Nigeria has to get the economy right for security to improve. As an economist, I have an idea about how to do this. – Dimeji Bankole#APCPresidentialPrimaries#APCSpecialConvention pic.twitter.com/S64fB8zcXI
— Channels Television (@channelstv) June 7, 2022
Senate President, Ahmad Lawan is now addressing delegates. He calls for opportunity to be given to parliamentarians to govern Nigeria as it’s seen in other countries that practice democracy
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Ahmed Bola Tinubu addresses delegates, says he’s ready to hit the ground running from day 1, if elected.
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Just in: Okorocha storms venue of APC convention
Okorocha was seen greeting delegates who also cheered him up. Recall that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, docked him before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.
Okorocha, who piloted the affairs of Imo State from 2011 to 2019 was arraigned on a 17-count money laundering charge, alongside six others.
The charge against them borders on conspiracy and stealing.
EFCC alleged that the defendants conspired and diverted funds belonging to Imo State to the tune of about N2.9billion.
Just in: All 23 screened aspirants to take part in APC Presidential Primary
All twenty-three aspirants who were screened by the All Progressives Congress for the Presidential Primary will participate in the election, Vanguard reports..
VIDEO: President Muhammadu Buhari arrives primary venue 7:43pm
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APC primary: Consultations for S’west consensus candidate ongoing – Sanwo-Olu 19:04 pm
Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has explained why the southwest has not been able to produce consensus candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary election, The Nation reports.
Although he noted that consultations are still ongoing, he said shocking announcements could come up later before the voting begins.
Sanwo-Olu spoke in a live interview with Channels TV at the primary ground in Abuja monitored by The Nation.
He said the region has array of quality aspirants who believe they have the right qualities to rule the country.
He said: “It has been a very difficult task for us, and all of them (aspirants) believe that they’ve something, they’ve the qualities of running this country. Not up to two or three hours ago, we were all consulting.
“You know in politics, never say never. Things can begin to happen right here later tonight. We’ve had extensive consultations and we’ve given everybody fair hearing. We are just looking around it for peace and equity.
“That conversation is still ongoing. It doesn’t end until when ballot papers are distributed. People can come up and make announcement…I don’t know. I’m not an aspirant, but it is never say never.”
I’ll be 16th President and number 15 must help no 16 – Bakare 6:52 pm
A presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Pastor Tunde Bakare has insisted he will win the party’s presidential ticket.
He described himself as the number 16 President, stating number 15, which is President Muhammadu Buhari, must help him to emerge.
He said the party is yet to reach out to him regarding consensus talks and stepping down.
While urging the party to be mannerly in communicating its decisions to candidates, especially with regards to selecting its flagbearer, Bakare said he had reached out to all delegates for the convention via SMS, stating he does not believe in financial inducements.
While expressing confidence that he would emerge the party’s flagbearer because according to him, “he carries grace,” he however stated the would support whoever emerges.
Speaking during a Channels TV interview at the venue of the convention in Abuja, he said: “Yes, I got to all the delegates and sent them bulk SMS in different languages. There is no single delegate – not the ones that have been banned because when they were running all around, they were going to statutory delegates that cannot vote tonight .
“I didn’t go to them. I got the information and booklet of all the delegates in every state and every local government and everyone got a message from me, and many responded.
“The delegates will vote for whoever they choose. We must stop all these financial inducements. If delegates and citizens allow politicians to take advantage of them, they will visit them around elections and rob their treasury for the next four years. We want to bring change into that order.
“I am going to be on the ballot because I paid for my form. In a decent and orderly society, if I apply to be a candidate and I paid all the necessary fees, courtesy demands that you tell me that – ‘oh, your name is not there.’ I can’t listen to Lalong.
“I did not have any communication from the party and I would not get information from television because I went to the secretariat and paid my fees. You cleared me. Whether I am disqualified nobody has said that, and nobody has said ‘will you step down?’
“Yes, I believe in the supremacy of the party but the party must have manners to tell people that – ‘okay, you have gone through this, but in the interest of our party, we want A,B,C to step down.’ I don’t get information from radio and television. The only promise I made to Nigerians from the day I started and till now, is to lead a cutting-edge nation.
“As far as I’m concerned, I offered myself. You can see the voting number dwindling over the years because people do not trust these same people with lots of experience that has brought us to this sorry state.
“I am not dissatisfied with the process because every process has its challenges and it is not easy to organise 23 adults. The moment this is over, whoever emerges we will support.”
When asked if he is confident that he will emerge he said: “Who knows, I carry grace, favour and God-factor. Give me an opportunity to speak to the delegates and let’s see what will happen.
“I will be the 16th president and when that time comes, number 15 must help number 16 because I did a great deal to ensure number 15 is enthroned in this country. I am a man of faith and what I speak is full of faith.”
VIDEO: Gov Lalong arrives venue of APC presidential primary 6:24 pm
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ceg1mOLsIq_/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=f05ce0e2-8e3a-46d8-8cfc-d735e403ceec
VIDEO: Rotimi Amaechi arrives venue of APC presidential primary 6:37 pm
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ceg0-MYMB2I/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=98ffec0d-53d5-4db2-b2be-4ffc38dafb35
VIDEO: Gov Sanwo-Olu arrives venue of APC presidential primary 5:40 pm
VIDEO: Governor Yahaya Bello arrives venue of APC presidential primary 5:31 pm
https://www.instagram.com/p/CeguOjBsoep/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=30fb4109-fa63-4629-8793-c7ef0c1b524c
Conversely, there are also moves to get Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State to step down for Osinbajo.
Among the five aspirants recommended by APC northern governors and the National Working Committee NWC, three (Tinubu, Osinbajo and Fayemi) are from the South-West. Chief Rotimi Amaechi is from the South-South while Governor Dave Umahi is from the South-East.
Fayemi, the current chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, NGF, is said to be banking on the support of his brother governors.
However, a number of the governors, who are already eyeing the vice presidential slot are seen to be supporting Tinubu, and a few for Osinbajo.
Sources said the South-West leaders want one candidate from the zone hence the pressure on Osinbajo and Fayemi to step down.
As of 4.40 pm, the special Convention was yet to start.
A top party leader told Vanguard: “A lot of meetings are going on. If the meetings yield result only two aspirants will remain and the primaries will not take long to conclude.”
Sources close Tinubu said the former Lagos Governor is not entertaining any call on him to step down.
“If there is going to be a consensus, he said he is the consensus candidate otherwise let’s go for primaries,” a member of the Tinubu Campaign told Vanguard.
Jigawa APC delegate slumps, dies in Abuja
The deceased was Assistant APC chairman in charge of Jigawa central zone.
He was said to have slumped while getting ready to go to Eagle Square, venue of the primary with other delegates from the State.
Jigawa APC Public Relations officer Malam Bashir Kundu confirmed the incident.
He told The Nation: said “Yes, he died this morning. He slumped at Jigawa State Liaison Officer in Abuja and he was rushed to hospital and died before arriving the hospital. When we arrived the hospital he was confirmed died. It had been said he died of heart failure.”
APC primary: Presidential aspirants trimmed to 2, says Sen. Gaya 5:00 pm
Senator Kabiru Gaya (Kano South) has stated there are ongoing efforts to reduce the list of proposed presidential aspirants to two, The Nation reports.
He stated as at Tuesday evening, the contest was between Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice-president Yemi Osinbajo.
Gaya spoke in a live interview with Channels TV at the primary ground in Abuja monitored by The Nation.
But after a fresh deliberation, the list was reduced to three aspirants with Tinubu, Osibanjo and Amaechi making the new list.
Gaya said: “Well, we are still at the process. We know during conventions like this, decision are taken at the last minute and when done at the last minute, people accept that decision.
“Yes, we are trying to trim down. All that we know is that the candidate at the presidency should go to the south. And as it is now, it is going to the south, so that we can have a northern vice-president.
“If we don’t agree on one person, atleast two or three persons will go to poll. The party wants the aspirants contesting to be reduced to two or even one.
“When the process begins, the candidate will mount the podium and tell us if they are stepping down, and who they are stepping down for.”
Delegates take position at Presidential Primary, Eagle Square, Abuja 4:40 pm
Police teargas journalists at Eagle Square
Police have teargassed accredited journalists who were trying to access the Eagle Square, venue of APC presidential primary, The Nation reports.
The incident happened at the entrance gate facing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka however apologised to the journalists before assisting them to gain access into the square.
Read Also: EFCC operatives storm Eagle Square
He said: “I am sorry about the incident involving the use of tear gas by the police at the Foreign Affairs Ministry Access Gate of Eagle Square.
“Some of our accredited journalists were affected. As soon as I was notified, I went there and helped to give access to all accredited journalists.
“I hope everyone is all settled in now at the Convention”.
National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu arrives Eagle Square 4:30 pm
The mood at the convention supports power shift to the Southwest. Senator Kabiru Gaya says APC looks forward to a contest between Tinubu and Osinbajo. But, Amaechi and other aspirants are still kicking
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VIDEO: Some supporters of presidential aspirant, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu arriving the Eagle Square venue for the APC Presidential Primary
BREAKING: Lawan Dropped As APC Govs Releases Final List [PHOTO]
EKO HOT BLOG reports that All Progressives Congress( APC) governors have further reduced down the list of proposed presidential aspirants to three.
President Muhammadu Buhari had earlier instructed governors elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to reduce the number of presidential aspirants to three.
Those initially proposed were Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Rotimi Amaechi; Governor Kayode Fayemi and Governor Dave Umahi.
But they reportedly reduced the list to three aspirants with Tinubu, Osibanjo and Amaechi making the proposed final list.
BREAKING: EFCC Operatives Storm Venue Of APC Convention
The operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission are carrying out a secret operation at the venue of the All Progressives Congress national convention.
The anti-graft agency is currently conducting a covert investigation into delegates’ inducement and vote-buying during the ruling All Progressives Congress’s ongoing presidential primary elections.
“We’re currently at the APC convention ground on a covert operation,” said the reliable source, who spoke with to The Punch correspondent on the condition of anonymity.
We’re keeping an eye on things and keeping a close eye out for incidents of delegates being bribed, votes being bought, and other electoral or financial fraud.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/CeglMSsDcCL/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=3a5cc13f-ac31-4d14-b17c-ba38290117bf
BREAKING: Govs reduce proposed aspirants to 3
The Governors in the early hours of Tuesday proposed a five-man list of aspirants to President Muhammadu Buhari to consider for consensus.
Those initially proposed were Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Rotimi Amaechi; Governor Kayode Fayemi and Governor Dave Umahi.
But they reportedly pruned the list to three aspirants with Tinubu, Osibanjo and Amaechi making the proposed list.
However, the proposal is not a binding decision but a suggestion to Buhari who has requested them to assist prune down the 23 aspirants for consensus.
However, other aspirants, particularly Kayode Fayemi and Yahaya Bello, are kicking, saying that they are still in the race.
Details Shortly….
Fayemi still in APC presidential race, says aide 14: 00 pm
Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi has said he has not withdrawn from the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress(APC).
There has been reports making the round in Abuja that Fayemi has withdrawn from the race and accepted the pruning down of the list of aspirants by his colleagues.
However responding to enquires, Special Adviser for the Governor, Yinka Oyebode said Fayemi remains the leading aspirant in the race.
He said: “That is a fake news. Nothing like that. Dr Kayode Fayemi is a leading aspirant in the race and looks good to win the contest.”
Seven APC presidential aspirants reject Govs list
Seven presidential aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have rejected the five aspirants proposed sent to President Muhammadu Buhari by Governors.
A statement on Tuesday by the aspirants after a brief meeting in Abuja, distanced themselves from the purported list.
The aspirants include: Cross River Governor, Ben Ayade; former Minister for State for Education Emeka Nwajiuba; former Minister for Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu; former Imo Governor Rochas Okorocha and businessman Tein Jack-Rich.
The claimed that they were not consulted before the governors arrived at the decision
Describing the whole exercise as shambolic and failed attempt to sideline other aspirants particularly those from the South-East and South-South regions, the aspirants rallied support for the National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu.
The statement reads: “In the past few hours we have been bombarded with calls and messages from my supporters and concerned Nigerians on a list of five Presidential aspirants submitted to President Buhari to choose from.
“As long as we are concerned no list has been submitted to Mr. President, the move by the Governors is considered a joke taken to the extreme with the aim of playing with the intellect of Nigerians particularly us from the South-East.
“Mr. President’s directive is very simple, that all Presidential aspirants including those from the North should meet and harmonise in order to produce a single candidate. As it stands we have not been consulted or attended a meeting where it was agreed that such names be sent to Mr. President.
“In the so-called list out of the five names only one was selected from the South-East and we are talking about fairness and justice to the South.
“What the Governors have done is a mere picnic in the park. These are the same Governors talking about Equity, justice and fairness yet in a clandestine manner purportedly sidelined the South-east.
“In the absence of any harmonised agreement no list has been submitted to Mr. President, what they have done is just nothing but a charade which is bound to fail.
“We also have it on good authority that the majority of these Governors have been promised and also given various forms of gratifications in order to thwart the process in favour of one aspirant and such grand plot will fail woefully.
“More so, the party led by Senator Abdullahi Adamu remains the official organ of the party through which decisions taken by stakeholders in the party will be communicated and acted upon, in the absence of that any other move remains null and void.
“We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to disregard such information, as we remain in the race hence no consensus agreement has been reached amongst all contestants.”
Those shortlisted by the Governors are Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi; former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and Ebonyi Governor Dave Umahi.
The Governors after meeting with the President said they will return to the villa after meeting with the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, and other stakeholders.
Buhari, Gov Bello meet over APC presidential primary
President Muhammadu Buhari is in a meeting with one of the presidential aspirants of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Governor Yahaya Bello.
The meeting is holding at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Kogi Governor is among the 23 presidential aspirants of the APC cleared to contest for the primary of the party.
Although the APC Governors from the north have resolved that power should shift to the south, Bello has disassociated himself from the resolution.
The agenda of the meeting between the President and the Governor was not made known but there is an insinuation that Bello may discuss his decision on whether he will step down or not with the President.
VIDEO: Lagos APC delegates undergo accreditation
https://www.instagram.com/p/CegM0XrvtKM/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=a65949ee-cac2-454e-9bc6-f25ff690048b
APC Governors propose five candidates for presidential primary election
All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors have proposed five presidential aspirants to participate at today’s primary.
The Governor of Plateau Governor, Simon Lilongwe, confirmed the proposal to reporters in Abuja.
According to him, the selection was done based on the reality on ground and without bias and sentiments.
The five aspirants are from the South and they include, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chibuike Amaechi, Prof Yemi Osinbajo , Dave Umahi and Kayode Fayemi
Lalong said their names were listed in alphabetical order.
Recall that Governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in the North are insisting that the ruling party must present a Southern presidential candidate for the 2023 general election.
APC consensus candidate: You’re a joke – Akeredolu slams Adamu
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has described as an expensive joke, a claim that the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, has endorsed the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, as the party’s consensus presidential candidate.
According to Akeredolu, Adamu “took a flight of fancy and decided to make a pronouncement beyond his competence.”
The governor said the APC Chairman’s pronouncement runs contrary to the position of majority of Northern Governors in APC and their counterparts in the South.
The Governor of Kaduna state, Nasir el-Rufai, has disclosed reasons why his Kogi state counterpart, Yahaya Bello, “excused himself” from a meeting of northern governors of the APC with President Muhammadu Buhari.
El-Rufai said that 13 of the 19 APC governors from the North agreed that APC’s presidential ticket should be zoned to the South.
He said Bello, who is also an APC presidential hopeful, decided not to attend the meeting.
“But the governor of Kogi state excused himself, and he is within his democratic rights to excuse himself,” El-Rufai said.
Buhari’s ally, Honourable Farouq Aliyu, says, “As of today, the APC has no consensus candidate for President. The President has not anointed anybody. But some of us believe it should go to the South.
A former senate president, Ken Nnamani, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential race.
Nnamani announced his withdrawal during a meeting with journalists in Abuja on Monday.
The former lawmaker said: “In the present circumstances, it does not make any sense for me to continue in the race as I have not had the opportunity to market my profile and ideas to the delegates of our party in a manner that allows for deliberation and introspection.
“Therefore, I discontinue my aspiration and wish the party a successful primary and unity of purpose so that we can win the 2023 general elections.
“I will continue to engage with the party and its leadership to make sure that the ideas and values that I cherish and propagate find strong footing in the party administration and in public leadership after the election.”
Meanwhile, the APC National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has announced Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan as the party’s consensus candidate.
This is coming as the party begins its presidential primary election in the nation’s capital, Abuja.
The members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC have denied endorsing Senate President, Ahmad Lawan as the consensus candidate of the party
The National Chairman of the party, Senator Abdulahi Adamu had announced during the NWC meeting held at the lady Secretariat on Monday that Lawan has been anointed as the consensus candidate of the party.
But, the National Organising Secretary of the party, Mr. Suleiman Argungun, while addressing journalists at the party secretariat after the NWC meeting said the issue of consensus was never discussed at the meeting.
He stressed that Adamu only gave them the information, but they were yet to discuss it.
President Muhammadu Buhari, has said that he does not have a preferred candidate ahead of the party’s presidential primaries.
Buhari also told the Notheen Governors, who were in Aso Rock to meet with him concerning where the next President comes from to “Allow the delegates to decide. The Party must participate, nobody will appoint anybody.”
The President on Monday afternoon said it was important to cleared all doubts about where he stands on the choice of a presidential candidate.
Buhari, according to Garba Shehu, made the declaration before the party’s 14 governors of northern states.
According to the President, “no preferred candidate,” and has “anointed no one,” and is determined to ensure that “there shall be no imposition of any candidate on the party.”
Buhari said the party is important and its members must be respected, and made to feel they are important.
The President said he had a clear mind about what he was doing and asked the APC governors to feel the same way.
After s close door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday, the Governors said no to Nothern candidate.
According to them, “We support Southern presidential Candidate,” APC Northern Governors Insist After Meeting Buhari
APC Chairman, Adamu picks consensus candidate
All Progressives Congress National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu has announced Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan as the party’s consensus candidate.
This is coming as the party begins its presidential primary election in the nation’s capital, Abuja.
Adamu was said to have made the announcement at the meeting of the National Working Committee on Monday.
DAILY POST learnt that other aspirants including Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Engr. David Umahi would be allowed to participate in the election despite consensus.
Kogi Governor, Yahaya Bello angrily Walks out of APC Governors meeting with Buhari after he was asked to step down and back a Southern aspirant.
APC Primary: Buhari has no preferred candidate, Northern governors reveal
About 13 Northern Governors elected on the platform of the All Progressive Congress have revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari has no preferred candidate in the party primary election that kicked off today in Abuja.
The revelation came shortly after President Muhammadu Buhari met with some of the Governors at the State House, Abuja.
Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong who briefed State House Correspondents after the meeting, however, said the northern governors have agreed that power should shift to the South.
They are also expected to meet with the National Working Committee of the party later today by 5pm.
The President’s meeting with the APC governors from the north is the fourth parley in his effort to have a harmonised position prior to the convention.
The governors in attendance are the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and governor of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu, chairman of the Northern governors Forum and governor of Plateau State, Simeon Lalong, Abubakar Baduru (Jigawa) and Babagana Zulum (Borno).
Others are Aminu Bello Masari (Katsina), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Bello Matawale (Zamfara), Mallam Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), Yahaya Inuwa (Gombe), Abubakar Bello (Niger), and the Yobe State governor, Mai Mala Buni.
Buhari, Northern APC Governors in last minute talks
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday held last-minute consultations with northern governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
This is amid unconfirmed reports that the National Chairman of the ruling party, has picked Senate President, Ahmad Lawan as the party’s consensus candidate.
The meeting between Buhari and the Governors was held inside the President’s office at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Some of the governors who attended the meeting include Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna, Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano, Aminu Masari of Katsina, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, and Abubakar Bello of Niger.
Also present were Bello Matawalle of Zamfara, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Simon Lalong of Plateau, Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi, and Mai Mala Buni of Yobe.
President Buhari and the northern APC governors met on the day the ruling party said it would commence a special convention to elect its presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections.
All is set for the APC national convention and presidential primaries.
The ad hoc delegates for the presidential primary election of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, are all set to elect the party’s flagbearer for the 2023 general elections. The primary election starts today, Monday, June 6th, 2022.
The ruling party sold 28 forms to 28 different aspirants at the rate of N100 million each and 23 of these contestants were screened last week.
Among the 23, 13 of them were said to have passed the screening exercise, according to John Oyegun, Chairman of the party’s presidential screening committee, while 10 others were ‘disqualified’.
However, the National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Adamu, countered the Screening Committee’s report, saying that no aspirant was disqualified. He said that all the aspirants would battle it out for the party’s sole presidential ticket.
Three aspirants, namely: the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Godwin Emefiele and the Minister of Petroleum for State, Timipreye Sylva, did not submit their forms, while former President, Goodluck Jonathan and Akinwumi Adesina did not show up for screening.
The APC has a total of 2,340 delegates who are set to cast their votes for the aspirants.
And from all indications, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chibuike Amaechi, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Ahmed Lawan are the leading contenders for the party’s ticket.
Among the others ready to fight it out for the party’s flag are: former Minister of Niger Delta, Godswill Akpabio; former Minister of Education for State, Emeka Nwajiuba; former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello; former National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu; former Ogun State governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosu.
Others are Pastor Tunde Bakare, Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, Ebonyi State Governor Dave Umahi, Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Jigawa governor Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and former Zamfara State governor, Sen. Ahmed Yerima.
Meanwhile, the Northern APC Governors had at the weekend asked aspirants from the region to step down and allow their Southern counterparts contest for the primary. The Governors agreed that it was the turn of the South to produce the next President.
They called on President Muhammadu Buhari to pick his successor from the Southern part of the country.
In another development, President Muhammadu Buhari, on his return from the Kingdom of Spain at the weekend, met with all the presidential aspirants of the party, urging them to settle for a consensus candidate. However, it seems that the ruling party’s aspirants are finding it difficult to reach a consensus.
According to the Electoral Act, all the candidates must agree to step down for one of them for a consensus to be reached and if this is not the case, they have to battle it out in the primaries.
The ruling All Progressives Congress has today, tomorrow and Wednesday to decide who bears its flag for the 2023 presidential election.
Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has already emerged the presidential candidate of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and is keenly watching to know his opponent.
Stick with EKO HOT BLOG as we bring you update of the APC presidential election…
FURTHER READING:
- Party Delegates Furious After Discovering They Were Bribed With Fake Dollars
- APC Announces 18 Sub-Committees Chairpersons To Elect 2023 Presidential Candidate [FULL LIST]
- You Need A Successor Who Can Protect Your Legacy – Orji Kalu Writes Buhari
APC: Tinubu, Osinbajo, 3 Others On Verge Of Clinching Presidential Ticket
EKO HOT BLOG reports that Governors who are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have submitted the names of five presidential aspirants to President Muhammadu Buhari to select a consensus candidate from.
Daily Trust quoted a “reliable” source as saying that the governors submitted the names in the early hours of Tuesday.
BREAKING: Buhari Orders APC Govs To Reduce Number Of Presidential Aspirants To 3
EKO HOT BLOG reports that President Muhammadu Buhari has instructed governors elected on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform to reduce the number of presidential aspirants to three.
APC Presidential Primary: Party To Declare Winner At 10pm As Voting Is Slated For 6pm
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the primary election to determine the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will commence 6pm today at the party’s national convention in Abuja.
According to the schedule, eligible delegates from the 36 states and the FCT, Abuja, are expected to arrive the venue – Eagle Square – between 10am and 1pm.
JUST IN: Journalists Denied Access To APC Presidential Primary
EKO HOT BLOG gathered that Journalists were denied access to APC Presidential Primary ground as they are yet to be accredited.
Both local and international journalists designated to cover the presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are yet to get accredited of the time of filing this report.
BREAKING: Tension As Source Reveals Buhari’s Choice Ahead Of Primary
EKO HOT BLOG reports that President Muhammadu Buhari is keenly interested in who wins the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2023 presidential ticket.
A privy source close to the President told newsmen on Tuesday that the Nigerian leader is favourably disposed to the emergence of Senate President, Ahmad Lawan.
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