The Supreme Court on Friday ordered that old N200, N500, N1,000 notes remain in circulation till December 31, 2023.

The apex court also nullified the Federal Government’s naira redesign olicy, declaring it as an affront to the 1999 Constitution.
Justice Emmanuel Agim, who read the lead judgement, held that the preliminary objections by the defendants (the Attorney General of the Federation, Bayelsa and Edo states) are dismissed as the court has the jurisdiction to entertain the suit.
Citing Section 23(2)1 of the constitution, the court held that the dispute between the federation and states, must involve law or facts.
The apex court further held that President Muhammadu Buhari in his broadcast, admitted that the policy is flawed with a lot of challenges.
The court said the policy has led to some people engaging in trade by barter in this modern age, in a bid to survive. The court added that the President’s disobedience of the February 8 order, is a sign of dictatorship.
Sixteen states of the Federation instituted the suit to challenge the legality or otherwise of the introduction of the policy.
The suit initially instituted by Kaduna, Kogi and Zamfara states has been slated as the first case on the cause list for final verdict.
Justice John Inyang Okoro who led a seven-man panel of Justices of the Court had on February 22 fixed today for the court to make its decision known on the suit.
The 16 states led by Kaduna, Kogi and Zamfara are praying the apex court to void and set aside the policy on the ground that it is inflicting hardships on innocent Nigerians.
They accused President Muhammadu Buhari of usurping the function of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in the introduction and implementation of the policy and asked that the directive issued by Buhari be voided.
On its part, the Federal Government challenged the jurisdiction of the Apex Court on the grounds that the CBN was not joined as a party and that the dispute on the policy ought to be directed at the CBN so that the suit can be referred to the Federal High Court.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and his Kogi State counterpart, Yahaya Bello were in court to witness the judgement on Friday. The two governors were also in court at the last hearing. Also, Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle was in court on Friday.
Back Story
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had extended the deadline for the swap of old N200, N500, and N1,000 from January 31 to February 10 following complaints by many Nigerians but the Supreme Court, after a suit filed by the states, held that the Federal Government, the CBN, commercial banks must not continue with the February 10 deadline pending the determination of a notice in respect of the issue.
However, President Muhammadu Buhari, in a national broadcast last Thursday, directed the apex bank to release old N200 notes into circulation to co-exist with new N200, N500 and N1,000 banknotes for 60 days — by April 10, 2023. He also said old N500 and N1,000 banknotes cease to be legal tender in Nigeria.
There has been a flurry of reactions and stark criticisms against the President’s directive including from governors of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governors Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa), Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Umar Ganduje (Kano); Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo; and many stalwarts of the ruling APC have openly censured and faulted the President’s directive, arguing that it has not grounds because the case is before the apex court.
Leading Senior Advocates of Nigeria like Femi Falana and Mike Ozekhome have equally faulted the President’s move, saying he cannot overrule the apex court of the land.
Also, three State Governors- Kaduna, Zamfara and Kogi have filed another suit against Malami, and the CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele over contempt of court and their alleged failure to comply with the Supreme Court order on the old naira notes.

DG APC PCC GOVERNOR LALONG CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT- ELECT ASIWAJU BOLA

Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council and Governor of Plateau State Simon Bako Lalong has described the victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President-elect of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as an act of God that vindicates his many years of hardwork, perseverance and commitment to the democratic development of Nigeria.

Lalong while reacting to the victory of Asiwaju said the APC has proven that it is a party that has diversity and acceptance among Nigerians of all persuasions.

He thanked Chairman of the PCC President Muhammadu Buhari and the entire leadership for spearheading a robust campaign that got the buy-in of Nigerians as well as generated goodwill and acceptance of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Director General said the election of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Kashim Shettima will usher in a new vista in the nation as they have promised to ensure peace, unity, justice, equity and fairness to all Nigerians irrespective of their backgrounds.

He commended the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reaching out to other contestants to join hands with him in building a greater future for all Nigerians, saying this is reassuring.

While commending INEC for conducting a credible election despite the few challenges, Lalong also advised candidates and political parties who have complaints to use legal means provided by the constitution to ventilate, rather than taking inciting citizens to angage in any act that could joarpadsie the peace and security of the nation.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Director General, APC Presidential Campaign Council and Governor, Plateau State.
1st March 2023.

Freelance Reporters,Jos

Federal lawmaker representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Hon Yusuf Gagdi has won his re-election bid to the National Assembly.

Hon Yusuf Gagdi who is the house committee chairman of the ,Navy contested under the platform of the All Progressives Congress APC.

INEC Returning Officer for the election, Prof. Ikoni Ogaji, declared the result on Monday in Pankshin, Plateau.

He said that Gagdi polled 78,585 votes to defeat his closest opponent, Mr Chrisantus Ziphion of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, who scored 47,105 votes.

Also, the returning officer said that Mr Abbas Wokdung of the Labour Party, LP, polled 18,952 votes.

Reacting to his victory, Gagdi thanked the people of the constituency for the confidence reposed in him to represent them for another tenure again.

He promised to consolidate the developmental strides so far achieved, adding that he would dedicate more time and resources to providing quality representation and dividends of democracy to the people.

ELECTION DAY 2023: GOVERNOR LALONG, FAMILY VOTE AT AJIKAMAI, OPTIMISTIC OF VICTORY

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong casted his vote at his polling unit in Ajikamai, Shendam Local Government Area with optimism that the APC will emerge victorious at the end of the day.

The Governor who is running for the Senatorial seat of Plateau South District was joined by his wife Mrs. Regina Lalong, his children and other household members.

Lalong who is the Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council said he was highly impressed with the turn out of voters in various polling units he sighted on his way to vote as well as from reports he has been receiving across the State.

He said so far, the elections have been going on peacefully as there is no report available to him of any threat to the exercise in the State.

He commended the people of Plateau State for their enthusiasm and peaceful conduct which he said affirms their maturity in politics.

Fielding questions from journalists, the Governor urged the citizens to avoid anything that will cause breach of the peace throughout the voting process and when results are announced, saying INEC has assured of its neutrality and determination to ensure that votes count.

He said those who may be aggrieved should use legal channels to seek redress rather than instigate violence and destruction which does not help the nation.

Asked how he feels voting for himself as candidate for Senate, Lalong said “I am used to it and this is not the first time. I did so many years back as Member House of Assembly voted twice; during my Recall ordeal; as Governor twice and now as Senator by the grace of God. I am indebted to my people for their confidence in me and continuous support which I will never betray”.

Lalong further commended INEC officials security personnel, observers, party agents and the electorate in general for doing their best towards the success of the elections.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
25th February 2023.

GOVERNOR LALONG PRESENTS STAFF OF OFFICE TO REKNA OF BASHAR; ROUNDS OFF CAMPAIGN IN WASE, LANGTANG NORTH.

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has tasked the traditional institution to sustain its role of maintaining peace and harmony within their domains particularly with the 2023 general elections around the corner.

Governor Lalong was speaking while presenting a Second Class Staff of office to the Rekna of Bashar in Wase Local Government His Royal Highness Alhaji Abdullahi Idris Isa.

The Governor said the traditional institution has continued to play the role of a stabilising force at all times especially during crucial national engagements such as the elections about to commence.

He said the traditional institution must not only continue to work with all segments of society for the success of the elections, but should also make the citizens know that they have a role to play in the democratic development of the country.

While congratulating His Royal Highness for ascending the throne of his fore fathers, he also appreciated the King Makers who did all that is required according to the customs and traditions of the Bashar Chiefdom to expeditiously select a successor to occupy the stool.

He said “While you discharge your duty diligently, I admonish you to be more proactive, carry your people along irrespective of creed, religion or any affiliation. Avoid tendencies that will make you a sectional leader thereby jeopardizing the sanctity of the revered stool which you are occupying in trust for your people”.

Lalong also urged him to carry everyone along and work with the Government to promote peace, development and harmony, advising him not get involved in politics but sensitise his people to participate in the political process and perform their civic duties.

On the forth coming elections, he said “For the people of Bashar and Wase Local Government in general, I want to thank you for always supporting us and voting for our party. That is why we have also reciprocated by giving you what you deserve. Let us continue this good partnership even as we head to the polls this Saturday to elect our next President, Senators and Members House of Representatives. I know you are aware that apart from Voting for your son Rt. Hon. Idris Wase for the House and myself as Senator, the big deal is to massively vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President. I have the confidence that you will do the needful this Saturday and during the elections for Governor and House of Assembly when my successor by the grace of God Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda and other candidates of our party will be massively elected. Please ensure that you conduct yourselves peacefully and shun any act that will jeorpadise the peace and progress of our State and country at large”.

Long Gamai of Gamailand HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III who spoke on behalf of Gbong Gwom Jos Da Jacob Gyang Buba used the opportunity to once again thank the Governor for paying special attention to the traditional institution since assuming office, describing him as a leader with passion for peace, security and harmony.

In a similar vein, Emir of Wase Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Abubakar said since coming on board, Governor Lalong has paid greater attention to reviving and strengthening the traditional institution so that it can contribute meaningfully to the development of the State.

Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase who is the brother of the new Rekna of Bashar thanked Governor Lalong for his sense of fairness, justice and equity which he said has been demonstrated in his non interference for selection of the Rekna and other traditional rulers across the State.

He recalled that Governor Lalong has so far created 285 new Districts, 36 Chiefdoms as well as restored 3 Chiefdoms scrapped by the previous administration.

Chairman, Wase Local Government as well as the Chairman, Bashar Development Association Zakari Muhammed Dalhatu said the presentation of staff of office to the new Rekna of Bashar again signifies the importance that Governor Lalong places on the yearning and aspirations of the people.

The Governor thereafter commissioned some projects executed by the Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Rt Hon. Idris Wase. They include roads, schools, police divisional headquarters, electrification and bridges. They also inspected other ongoing projects still under construction.

Before returning to Jos, the Governor stopped over in Langtang to meet with APC stakeholders as part of the mobilisation for Saturday’s elections where he is vying for the seat of Senator representing Plateau South Senatorial District.

He was at the Palace of the Ponzhi Tarok where he was received by the Ponzhi Zhini, Acting Chairman Tarok Traditional Council and his members.

Governor Lalong thanked the people of Langtang particularly the traditional council for standing by him since his days as Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly to his election as Governor.

Welcoming him to the Palace, Acting Chairman Tarok Traditional Council Ponzi Zhini said the council has deep appreciation and respect for Governor Lalong who has emancipated the Tarok nation by approving many graded chiefs and ensuring that progress and development comes to the land.

He prayed for him and wished him well saying because he is a child of grace who has used his position for uplifting others, there is light at the end of the tunnel for him.

At a stakeholders meeting later, the Governor once again thanked the people for supporting him and said he will continue to represent their interests when elected to the Senate where he has vast experience in legislation and representation.
He said because Langtang is dear to him, he has decided to round off his Campaign in the area and assure them that voting for him, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, and other candidates of the APC is great investment that will yield many dividends.

Dr. Makut Simon Macham
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor of Plateau State.
23rd February 2023.

GAGDI:KANAM SOLIDARITY MARCH WAS LOUD AND CLEAR

It was meant to be a solidarity march by youth and women in honor of the people’s representative, Rt Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi and other APC candidates for the 2023 general elections.

As soon as the drums and solidarity songs started to beat on Ali Pada Junction on Jos Road, Dengi, it soon turned out to be a carnival of some sorts.

It was instructive, but by any stretch of imagination, the message was clear and loud: Beware, Gagdi is in charge of PKK. Those who are pretending to be territorial leaders had better beware; the Commander is in charge and has been proclaimed as such.

The women, youth, men and party leaders had converged on Dengi to deliver a message of hope and togetherness: This, in many ways is a sign of victory.

Gagdi knows it, his constituents know what it portends. The team is waiting for Saturday, February 25, 2023. Let the votes SPEAK for GAGDI.


GAGDI CAMPAIGN COUNCIL MEDIA
February 23, 2023

By Prince Sekat, Jos

His Excellency, Nigerian Ambassador to Russia, Professor Shehu abdullahi Yibaikwal today organized parley with youth groups, religion bodies, civil societies, cultural groups and other organized community of youth bodies ahead of violence free election come Saturday election where Nigerians will elect a new president.

The Nigerian Diplomat who spend most of his years in service to the country and united nation says that youths all over the world are the driving factor behind any peaceful society and progressive economy and so, that of Plateau state and Nigeria shouldn’t be any different. He says that the united nations have come up with policy that will liberate the youths and and make them economically relevant in the society.

Furthermore, Amb Yibaikwal urged the youths to shun violence of any sort, says that the blood of the youths doesn’t worth the aspiration of any politician and so, they should match to the poll in a peaceful manner without any fear or intimidation. He congratulate everyone and wished them a peaceful election comes Saturday.

By Freelance Reporters, Jos

Campaign council of the All Progressives Congress ( APC) for Jos North / Bassa Federal house of representatives race in the forthcoming polls Hon Ibrahim Baba Hassan,
has denied negotiating by himself or through a proxy, with any person or group to step down his ambition to be elected as a lawmaker .
Addressing newsmen in Jos on Wednesday, the Chairman of his Campaign council Alhaji Baba Gangan , said contrary to rumours making the rounds that our Candidate RT Hon Baba Hassan is no longer in the race ,our Candidate has continued his grass root campaign with an assurance of victory on Saturday.

” We are debunking the fake news making the rounds on social media that Our Candidate has stepped down ,Hon Baba Hassan is a candidate that was duly elected through a legitimate party primaries of the APC hence we have not had any correspondence from his party indicating his withdrawal from the race .”

” We believe that our Candidate Hon Baba Hassan has what it takes ahead of other candidates jostling for the position due to his experience and inclusiveness .”

“The Independent campaign council of Hon Baba Hassan calls on the electorate of Bassa / Jos North Federal constituency to come out en mass on Saturday to vote massively for Baba Hassan and other candidates under the APC .”

By Freelance Reporters, Jos


The Indigenous Concerned Youths of Jos North/Bassa federal Constituency kicked against the endorsement of HON MUHAMMAD GWANNI of PRP by SHEIKH SANI YAHAHA JINGIR..
In a Press Release issued in Jos after an emergency meeting today,the group said it’s no longer news that the famous cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaha Jingir,the leader of Izala sect in Nigeria made a pronouncement recently about him supporting the candidature of Hon Muhammad Gwanni aka Dan London who is presently the member representing Jos North/Bassa Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.
A lot of waters had gone the wrong path and it’s important for the general public to know some of the reasons why the cleric made such an uncalculated speech, according to the cleric,his reasons for the endorsement of HON MUHAMMAD GWANNI of PRP is that,he has on record that Ibrahim Baba Hassan doesn’t pay much attention on the Muslim Community in Jos North Bassa Federal Constituency rather he has been concentrating on the Christian Community which is a threat to Islam and Muslim in Jos North Bassa Federal Constituency.
That his recent donations in Churches and his various assistance rendered to orphans and widows within the Christian Community is alarming, that Sheikh Sani Yahaha Jingir also notice that Hon Ibrahim Baba Hassan secured permanent and pensionable appointments to Christians more than Muslims in Jos North Bassa Federal Constituency hence the endorsement of HON MUHAMMAD GWANNI.
According to our findings,we have it on good records that Sheikh Sani Yahaha Jingir said,if Babs is given a higher responsibility,he might do more to Christians than Muslims.
It’s also a known fact that political appointees or elected officials make regular donations to religious organizations. Why is Baba Hassan’s Case different?, Does it mean that the Sheikh is calling for support to just one single side or religion,When humanity should come first rather than religion?

When contacted, the party (APC) said, Hon Ibrahim Baba Hassan is fully in the race for the house of representatives Jos/Bassa federal constituency and they urge their supporters to come out enmass and vote for Hon. Baba Hassan come 25/2/2023.

Elisha Danashina
Chairman

Musa Taru
Secretary

ANOTHER SIDE TO THE STORY: IBRAHIM BABA HASSAN and the recent endorsement of HON. MUHAMMAD GWANNI of PRP by SHEIKH SANI YAHAHA JINGIR..


Details Soon….