*inaugurates Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road, others
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike says he is mindful of the interest of the State to protect it at all times, which is why he cannot mislead Rivers people on the political decision that has been taken concerning the presidential candidate to support during the 25th February 2023 general election.
Governor Wike made the assertion on Thursday while inaugurating some critical road projects in Port Harcourt Local Government Area.
The first project that inaugurated at the Ojoto Roundabout in Mile 2 Diobu in Port Harcourt was the dualized Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road.
Other roads projects also inaugurated by the governor were the reconstructed/rehabilitated Edeokia/Femie/ Aeroplane Drive/Okuru Junction to Abuloma Jetty Road, which took place at the Aeroplane Drive junction in Abuloma community.
Governor Wike said he has always advised political officer holders or others in positions of trust to be aware that when their people confide in them, they should use the opportunity to better their lot.
The governor stressed that such leaders endeavour to change the socioeconomic life of their people who they represent in a manner that make living pleasurable for them.
“When you have an opportunity , when the people give you their confidence, you must also make them happy. How do you make them happy? It is by making sure you provide them with things that change their environment, with things that will better their lives, with things that will improve economic activities in their area.”
Governor Wike reiterated that Rivers State has offered him bounteous opportunities to accomplish so much in his private and political life.
The governor said, for such benevolence, he is eternally indebted to the State and will protect its interest in all his life.
He emphasised that nothing will make him to sell the State for anything, not also for a pot of pottage like others who only seek personal benefits do.
“I am sure the people of this area will continue to remember what this road looked like. If I were you, I would take the old picture of this Iloabuchi road and the new one, and put it in your house. When you wake up, you look at what it was and what it is now.
“For what Rivers State has given me, I owed them (Rivers people) a lot in my life and I will continue to protect their interest. I am not going to sell Rivers State to anybody for a pot of porridge. And that is why if I tell you this is the right place, know it is the right place. I am not going to deceive you. I am not one of those leaders who are running around for their personal interest.”
Speaking on the dualised Azikiwe/ Iloabuchi Road, governor Wike commended the host community for cooperating with the contractor, Julius Berger Ltd, to deliver the project within the stipulated completion period of 6 months.
The governor disclosed that the Rivers State government will soon lay the foundation for the construction of the palace of the Eze Epara Rebisi on the land acquired for the project by past military administration in the State.
Governor Wike also spoke at the inauguration of the reconstructed/rehabilitated Edeokia/Femie/ Aeroplane Drive/Okuru Ama Junction to Abuloma Jetty Road.
He advised the people against some of their leaders, who promoted crisis among their people that led to killings instead of creating opportunities that would have empowered the people economically and attract development projects to their communities.
Governor Wike spoke of himself as a leader who did not just occupy public office to enrich himself, but created national impact and attracted development projects to his immediate communities, Rivers State and Nigeria, while he served as Obio/Akpor council chairman, Chief of Staff, Government House, Minister of State for Education and now as a governor.
The governor challenged such leaders to point to projects they attracted to their communities while they served as, Secretary to Rivers State government, Minister of Transport, chairman of Tenders Board and as a Senator, particularly for failing to factor into his constituency project, the Aeroplane Drive that was impassable for a long time.
Governor Wike insisted that his administration delivered critical infrastructure in the State because it believes Rivers people deserve the best.
In response to the request of the Amayanabo of Abuloma, Brigadier General Bright Ateke Fiboinumama (rtd), the governor directed the Commissioner for Works to mobilise his team to Abuloma-Okuru Ama Road including Azuabie Road with a view to reconstructing them, which he said will be his parting gift to the people.
In his address, Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Dr. George-Kelly Dakorinima Alabo said the dualised Azikiwe/Iloabuchi Road was completed in 6 months, and it has improved the aesthetics of the area, changed the socioeconomic dynamics of the people and eased vehicular traffic flow.
Speaking about the reconstructed/rehabilitated Edeokia/Femie/ Aeroplane Drive/Okuru Ama Junction to Abuloma Jetty Road, Dr. Alabo said the 5.5 Kilometres long roads with varied widths of 7.39 meters and less can last for 20 years, and has solved the problem the people had suffered when the roads were impassable.
In his welcome speech, Mayor of Port Harcourt City Council, Allwell Ihunda thanked governor Wike for accomplishing the road projects that are being inaugurated.
Ihunda said Port Harcourt people are pleased and are resolved to continue to support governor Wike because they will vote in the pattern that he has directed them.
February 23, 2023.
February 24, 2023
Press Statement
Presidential Election: Purported Audio of Atiku, Okowa, Tambuwal, Fake – PDP
…Says It Will Not Be Distracted by APC Lies
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) calls on Nigerians and the International Community to utterly disregard the simulated audio recording purported to be the voices of its Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa and Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Governor Aminu Tambuwal, describing it as another pathetical fabrication by the sinking All Progressives Congress (APC).
The fake audio recording is evidently part of the reprehensive, repulsive and foul design of the APC which has recruited hackers to produce and circulate fake media materials with a view to demonizing the PDP and our Candidate before Nigerians ahead of the election.
From the manipulated sound speed and pitch, it is clear that the recording was computer created and simulated to blackmail our leaders and deceive unsuspecting members of the public.
It is laughable for the APC to want Nigerians to believe that Atiku Abubakar, Gov Okowa and Gov Tambuwal who know themselves, can be calling their own names in a conversation as heard in the fake audio recording. Such further betrays the recording as an amateur simulation work.
Moreover, the APC has failed in this attempt to fool Nigerians by using Artificial Intelligence (A.I) to clone and mimic the voices of our leaders as Nigerians are smart enough to detect the distorted wave forms and sound pitch that typify an Artificial Intelligence simulated speech.
The fact is that no matter how hard falsehood attempts to thrive, the truth will always prevail. The APC has shown again how low it can descend with falsehood, fabrications and lies just to deceive Nigerians being jittery about the elections in view of the hardship they have caused Nigerians in the last seven and half years.
In any case, our Party and our Presidential Candidate are ready for the elections. The tide of support by the overwhelming majority of Nigerians is clear and we will not be deterred or distracted by the manipulations of the rejected and fizzling APC.
The PDP charges the security agencies to take note of the activities of the APC, take urgent steps to track down the makers of this fake audio material and make them face the wrath of the law.
The PDP urges Nigerians to remain focused and not be distracted in their determination to rescue our nation at this critical time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
February 23, 2023
Press Update
Presidential Election: Rev your support for Atiku, Campaign Urges Nigerians
The Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Organization has called on Nigerians to continue to rev their support for the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, as he remains the only candidate with the capacity to recover and rebuild our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
The campaign notes that Atiku, Abubakar in the course of the campaign, demonstrated that he has the desired understanding of the nuances and challenges of our nation as well as the capacity, competence, presence of mind and will power to address them.
Atiku Abubakar has the required blueprint to unify our nation, stabilize the polity, secure the nation, revamp the economy by reviving our productive sectors and return our nation to the path of peace, national stability and economic prosperity that has eluded her in the last seven and half years.
It is imperative to state that Atiku Abubakar is the only Presidential Candidate that possesses the required leadership composure, effectual national and international connection as well as the experienced steady hands to effectively steer the ship of State from the abyss where the APC has plunged her.
This explains why Atiku Abubakar has become the established rallying point of all well-meaning Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, class, gender, age and even political affiliations, in this all-important quest to rescue and rebuild our nation at this critical time.
We must therefore rev our determination, shun spoilers and resist the APC, who as enemies of our nation are desperate to scuttle the polls or compromise the credibility of the election through inducements and enticements.
Nigerians must at this moment stand firm, remain united and ensure that they are not in any way distracted from their already established resolve to rally with Atiku Abubakar to give our nation a new lease of life.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
Spokesperson
Atiku/Okowa Campaign Organization
PRESS STATEMENT
Six Years In Office: Akeredolu Reiterates Commitment To More Life-Changing Projects Across The State
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, has reiterated his commitment to pursuing policies and programmes that would accelerate economic development and progress of the people.
The Governor said his administration will continue to work in tandem with the aspirations and yearnings of the people for the overall development of the state.
The Governor, in a special message commemorating the six years anniversary of his administration, stated that bold steps have been taken in the journey of redeeming the state and restoring its lost glory.
“Six years have flown by with astonishing speed. Our mission to redeem the state has been marched with courage and determination. We have made remarkable progress in our resolve to make life better for the people and make our state an enviable destination.
“Our commitment to industrialization and massive investment has yielded enduring fruits. In our first term, we facilitated industries both at the industrial park and the Ondo-Linyi industrial hub in Ore. We kept our promise of putting a stop to the carnage at the cross section of Lagos- Benin expressway in Ore by constructing the first-of-its-kind flyover, christened “The Redemption Bridge.”
“Our infrastructural drive has been phenomenal. In the last six years, over 294.11km of roads have been completed while a little above 100km are ongoing across the state. Our determination to leave the state better than we met it and bridge infrastructural gap has yielded impressive results.
“Despite the giant stride recorded on road construction in our first term, we didn’t rest on our oars as we are still dotting the landscape and initiating new road projects. For instance, we have commenced work on Igoba township road. Similarly, work is about to start on Ajagba – Iju Osun – Akotogbo road. The Agadagba – Pereama road is completed and awaiting commissioning, same as Igbobini – Igbotu township road. We have also concluded arrangements to commence work on the Agerige road.
“In pursuance of our commitment to the REDEEMED agenda of our administration and our desire to leave a good legacy, we commenced the construction of a betting Governor’s Lodge in our second term. Today, the Lodge is near completion and it is our hope that the laudable project will be commissioned in few months’ time.
“In the last six years, we have made bold footprints in the infrastructural sector. Another landmark testimony of our commitment to infrastructural development is the 250 – bed hospital we are building in each of the Ondo and Akure complexes of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital.
“We are also set to build an ultramodern and befitting Judiciary Complex in Akure, the State capital. The new complex will house twenty different Court buildings from Court one to Court 20. That is aside the Chief Judge’s Court. The ground – breaking will be performed soon at the existing Court Complex.
“Also, in our resolve to accelerate development and provide a new lease of fiscal autonomy, we have tremendously improved on our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from the paltry N700 Million inherited in 2017 to an average of N2 Billion. This we achieved without burden on our people.
“When we assumed office in 2017, the workers were owed seven months salary arrears and their morale was low as the situation could be better imagined. We promised to give priority to their welfare, and today, we have offset six out of the inherited seven months arrears. As regards workers’ salary, we have paid up till date. Just yesterday, I approved the payment of the February 2023 salary.
“We understand that no meaningful development can take place in the State without adequate security. That is why we have continued to strengthen the Amotekun corps and other security agencies in the State. It is our resolve to give our best to protect the lives and property of the people of the State.”
The Governor, while thanking God Almighty for His grace so far, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the people for the mandate given to him and the opportunity to provide leadership in the state.
He assured that the remaining two years of his administration will be devoted to more impactful projects aimed at improving the lives of the people.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
February 24, 2023.
PRESIDENT BUHARI ARRIVES KATSINA FOR PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday arrived in Daura, Katsina state, in preparation for the Presidential Elections on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
The President, who was received by the Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari and Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Amb. Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, will be casting his vote at a polling unit close to his country home in Daura, alongside his wife, Aisha Buhari and other family members.
President Muhammadu Buhari, whose helicopter landed at 5:25 in Daura, preparatory to the elections, will be participating, not as a candidate as he had done since 2003, but as a voter.
Knowing the importance of every single vote, the President makes sure that all members of his family, members of the entourage, including security, protocol and other staff are registered to vote in Daura.
Before heading home for the elections, President Buhari had actively participated in the campaigns of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and presented the flagbearer, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as his preferred successor, showcasing his record of statesmanship and contributions to economic development and democracy.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 23, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDEMNS KILLING OF OYIBO CHUKWU, LPs SENATORIAL CANDIDATE IN ENUGU
President Muhammadu Buhari strongly condemns the gruesome killing of Chief Oyibo Chukwu, the Labor Party senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District and his personal aide.
The President believes that the perpetrators of this ignoble act, in Awkunanaw, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State,
have no respect for human life and dignity, and therefore deserve the wrath of natural and divine justice.
The President affirms his avowed commitment to an election that is devoid of violence and rancor.
He reminds all political actors that it is the choice of the electorate that counts, and therefore all eligible Nigerians should boldly exercise their civic rights without any fear of intimidation.
The President directs security agencies to track down the culprits of this heinous crime, even as he commiserates with families of the victims, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Labour Party.
President Buhari prays for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for those who mourn.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 24, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
YOUTHS IN LAGOS DECLARE FOR TINUBU
…Adopt Sanwo-Olu as their governorship choice
…‘Young people will be the backbone of Tinubu presidency’ – Youth Commissioner
As the nation counts down to the presidential election, youths in Lagos have come under a single umbrella to reiterate their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Tinubu, they submitted, is the most experienced and reliable candidate to lead the country in the next dispensation.
The youths, who came from all the traditional divisions in Lagos, converged on Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, on Thursday, to unanimously adopt the APC presidential candidate and his running mate, Sen. Kashim Shettima.
Besides, the youths endorsed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for another term, describing the Lagos helmsman as the most performing state administrator in the outgoing dispensation.
The attendees included members of non-political youth organisations, members of voluntary youth organisation (uniform) operating in Lagos, and their non-uniform counterparts in various groups.
Reading out the decisions agreed at the event, chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Lagos, Comrade Biliamin Oba, said the attendees were convinced that Tinubu remained the only presidential candidate who possessed the capacity and vision to turn things around in the country.
“We watched carefully all the campaigns ran by the major presidential contenders and we came to the understanding that only one of them understands the challenges facing our country. His manifesto is believed to offer solutions, because we have seen his track record.
“Tinubu governed a modern city that could be a country of its own and initiated development plans that have been efficiently implemented by his successors. Lagos, today, has become a pacesetter in governance. On the day of election, we have resolved that all of us will be independent canvassers for Tinubu.”
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Olusegun Dawodu, on whose instance the event was convened, said the Saturday election would be another watershed moment in the country’s political history, stressing that Tinubu remained the only true unifier among the contenders, who would bring the country together.
Dawodu, who recalled how Tinubu scouted for youths under age 35 for cabinet appointments in 1999, said the leadership tutelage model adopted by the APC presidential candidate had raised and thrown up new generation of leaders working to improve governance across the country.
The Commissioner said Sanwo-Olu, appointed into Tinubu’s cabinet in his 30s, had risen on the leadership ladder to become the best performing Governor in the country. Dawodu said young people would be the backbone of the Tinubu presidency if elected, urging the youths to mobilise members of their constituency into voting for APC on Saturday.
He said: “Among those running for president, Tinubu is the only candidate who stands out with verifiable track record. He is a visionary leader who will take our country to its destiny. Tinubu has always been a true believer in the youth. Governor Sanwo-Olu was appointed into Tinubu’s cabinet when he was in his 30s.
“Today, we have a Governor who has been fulfilling and delivering on his promises. This is a sign of things to come when Tinubu is elected as president. We have seen the Lagos experience and records of performance that have been the benchmark for quality governance. Tinubu is a true unifier; he will bring the country together.”
Youngest Lagos cabinet appointee, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, who supervises the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, said the “catch-them-young” legacy bequeathed in Lagos by Tinubu had created opportunities for young people across the State.
“Let us be prepared to vote on Saturday. We need to continue to build on the legacy set by Asiwaju, so that his vision can lead the country forward,” Ogunlende said.
Special Adviser to Gov. Sanwo-Olu on Education, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, said it was vision which differentiated Tinubu from other candidates, reminding the youths of the progress recorded in Lagos education system.
Wahab said Lagos would not have recorded the progress if there had not been continuity in the governance of the State by political parties backed by the APC presidential candidate.
He said: “Election is a science of mathematics and numbers. This will work out better if we are able to mobilise people to vote for APC on Saturday. With a good head start of 4.5 million votes in Lagos alone, this will give Tinubu a comfortable edge over other contenders,” Wahab said.
Lagos Youth Ambassador, Zainab Aderounmu, acknowledged the impacts and opportunities created for young people in Lagos, noting that she personally won support of the APC government in Lagos to pursue her goals.
Miss Aderounmu said the Saturday election was crucial for youth in Lagos to choose between a leader who care about young people’s future and opportunists who came every election year to seek support.
She urged young people to be peaceful in their conduct on Election Day.
Speaker of Nigeria Youth Parliament, Dr. Azeezat Yishau, said she personally endorsed Tinubu and urged her colleagues in the parliament to support the APC candidate for the country’s progress.
Igbo Youths endorse Atiku-Okowa, PDP candidates
The Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Youths Worldwide on Thursday endorsed the candidacy of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Ifeanyi Okowa for President and Vice President as well as all candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP.
The endorsement was given at the maiden Igbo Youth Town Hall Meeting held in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
The Igbo Youths led by Mazi Livinus Obasi Onu said the youths were concerned about the drifting economy and insecurity plaguing the once peaceful South-East and urged the PDP Presidential Candidate Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Dr Ifeanyi Okowa to ensure they reverse the challenges facing Ndi Igbo.
Responding, Okowa said the Atiku-Okowa Presidency would apply dialogue to unite Nigerians and provide more jobs to the teeming youths with the setting aside of $10billion dollars for MSMES.
He further said that a constitutional amendment would be carried out to devolve more powers to states and local governments and to also enable states establish their police force to tackle insecurity in their various states.
“Throughout Nigeria there is cause for every youth to worry and there is the need for the Igbo Youths to be more worried because insecurity in Igbo land is now more worrisome than other parts of the country.
“The Polices of the APC government in the last 8 years have impacted badly on the igbo man particularly the traders.
On resolving the crisis in the South-East, Okowa said Atiku Abubakar had assured that he would dialogue with key stakeholders with a view to releasing Nnamdi Kanu within the first 100 days of his administration.
“There is need for dialogue and we have said there is need to release our brother Nnamdi Kanu. Atiku has said he will open up dialogue assuring that through dialogue process he will release Nnamdi Kanu within 100 days.
“The elders of Igbo land have made the request and it means it was important to them,”
He said Delta was badly affected by the agitation in the Niger Delta but had become very peaceful because he sat with them and dialogued with them.
He added that his administration had engaged many youths through skill acquisition and empowerment programmes which had made many youths to become successful entrepreneurs and job creators.
“We will devolve more powers to the states and local government. We already have a draft bill to amend the constitution for states to have their own police force.
He lauded the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo youths adding that they would benefit immensely from the MSMES fund to be provided by the Atiku-Okowa presidency.
“It is not in the best interest of Igbo land to re-elect APC and we will do everything possible to bring security and development back to the South-East and other parts of the country.
“When the country is peaceful and united it will be easier to create jobs and bring development to the country.
“There is great pain in Nigeria today but there is help on the way with Atiku-Okowa presidency. We will run a transparent government with every part of the country carried along, so be rest assured that the Igbos would no longer be marginalised,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by Senatorial Candidate of Delta North, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko; Minority Leader House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Commissioner for Youths Development, Ifeanyi Egwunyenga among others.
Press Statement
PDP Closes Presidential and National Assembly Campaign Activities Midnight Today
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hereby informs the general public that, in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, all campaign activities and materials related to our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and our National Assembly Candidates for the Saturday, February 25, 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections close at midnight today, Thursday, February 23, 2023.
Consequently, the PDP directs all our campaign units, support groups and supporters of our candidates to end all forms of campaign activities accordingly.
The public, particularly the media should take note that our Party and candidates will not be liable for any campaign activity and/or material that appears on any platform after the stipulated time.
The PDP sincerely appreciates Nigerians for the unprecedented outpouring of love, solidarity and support for our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and the National Assembly candidates of our Party throughout the campaign period.
We urge Nigerians to remain at alert and resist any attempt by anybody to subvert their Will at the polls.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
2023 Elections: Technology experts explain how Atiku, Okowa’s voices were cloned*
In the run-up to the 2023 Nigerian Presidential elections tomorrow 25th Febuary, a new kind of political attack campaign has emerged, using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to clone the voices of political figures. The most recent example involves the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose voices has been cloned using A.I. technology in an attempt to discourage voters before tomorrow’s elections .
The viral voice recording, which purports to be Atiku Abubakar making comments about INEC, has been circulating on social media in Nigeria, causing a stir among the electorate. However, technology experts have now come forward to debunk the recording, pointing out irregularities that prove it is a fake, generated using sophisticated A.I. software that can mimic the sound and intonation of any human voice. They cited online services like www.respeecher.com and www.Resemble.ai which clone speech that are indistinguishable from the original speaker.
“Artificial intelligence is an incredible tool that has many useful applications, but it can also be used for nefarious purposes,” said Dr. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a technology expert based in Lagos. “In this case, someone has used A.I. to clone Atiku Abubakar’s voice and create a recording that never actually happened. We need to be vigilant and aware of these kinds of techniques, especially in the political sphere. I also hope the law enforcement authorities are getting more sophisticated inn their investigations to hold those propagating these sort of dangerous activities”
Dr. Ekekwe went on to explain that A.I. voice cloning technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and it is now possible to create convincing fake recordings that are almost indistinguishable from real ones. However, there are ways to detect fake recordings, such as analyzing the waveform and frequency of the voice, which can reveal anomalies that are characteristic of A.I. generated speech.
As the Nigerian Presidential election approaches, it is likely that we will see more instances of A.I.-generated voice cloning being used in political campaigns. However, with the help of technology experts like Dr. Ekekwe, it is possible to expose these fake recordings and prevent them from influencing the outcome of the election.
Atiku to Nigerians: Ignore fake audio in circulation
*Says it’s last kick of a dying horse
The Presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar has described as utter rubbish, an audio clip on social media wherein he purportedly revealed plans by himself, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State to rig the presidential election.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Phrank Shaibu, the PDP presidential candidate, said the latest fake audio clip in circulation was a confirmation of his warning last week that the opposition would deepen its propaganda ahead of the election.
Shaibu said, “We warned last week that as the election approaches, there will be a spike in the rate of propaganda on social media. With barely 24 hours to the poll, we have witnessed propaganda from not just the All Progressives Congress but the Labour Party as well.
“In this latest drivel, a montage of speeches delivered by Atiku, Tambuwal, and Okowa since last year were manipulated and pieced together to give an impression that they were discussing plans to rig Saturday’s election. In this age of artificial intelligence technology, even dead people can be portrayed as delivering speeches. This is nothing new.
“For the record, Atiku has run in two presidential elections and has never been indicted or prosecuted for election violence or vote buying.
“But some people think they can sell a narrative of Atiku manipulating this election. This is indeed the height of desperation, the last kick of a dying horse. The APC and the Labour Party must note that elections are not won on social media but at the polling units.”
Atiku said the audio clip, which had been shared numerous times on WhatsApp, could be identified easily as a fake even from the tone of the purported discussants.
He added, “It is unfortunate that those seeking power will engage in outdated defeatist tactics. How can Tambuwal be referring to Atiku by his full name in a one-on-one private conversation? This is nonsensical, similar to the type of meaningless chatter about President Muhammadu Buhari being dead and replaced by one Jubril from Sudan.”
Atiku also advised his supporters not to engage in the propaganda war, which had become the style of both the APC and the Labour Party. He said they should respond by voting massively for the PDP on Saturday.
He added, “When they descend to the level of baseless propaganda, we will rise above it with dignity and respond with our PVCs. This election is a watershed in Nigerian history. Nigerians must not lose sight of what is most important, which is the need to rebuild this broken system, revitalize the economy, and improve security and the hope of the people in a united Nigeria.”
The presidential candidate called on the police and other security agencies as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain fair and neutral in the polls.
He asked them to go after those behind the audio tape in line with Section 123(c) of the Electoral Act which provides that any person who before or during an election publishes any statement to the personal character or conduct of a candidate calculated to prejudice the chance of election of the candidate or to promote or procure the election of another candidate and such statement is false and was published without reasonable grounds for belief by the person publishing it that the statement is true, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a maximum of N100,000 or imprisonment for a term of six months or both.
Signed:
Phrank Shaibu
Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar
President candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria.
Abuja
24th February, 2023
Peter Obi Drops Passionate Message Hours To Presidential Poll.*
Fellow Nigerians, it’s 3 days to go and in my quiet moments I know that Nigerians are wondering what Peter Obi is thinking. I will share my thoughts here because I have Nigeria on my mind!
We are currently at a crossroads. We need a leader to show us the way forward. We need a prudent president, a principled president who has what it takes to lead.
As we say in Naija: “We need a person who sabi road; a person we go follow make this country better.” A new Nigeria is possible. We can make it.
We have national elections coming up next Saturday, on the 25th of February 2023. The presidential election is the most critical because we will be electing the next president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It is the only chance to elect a leader of our choice. We must choose someone who can solve our problems. This is an essential and existential election. It is a make-or-break moment in our history. Future generations will not forgive us if we make a wrong choice.
The person of your choice must have these four qualities minimally:
Character: A person with a proven record of fairness, honesty, and trust. We need an honest person with a verifiable background: We must know his real name. We must know where he said he schooled.
We must know people who knew him then. We must know where he has been, what he has done, what he has said, and what he has been doing these past months during the campaigns.
Competence: Someone who has the proven capability and the drive to move us forward. The person must have the required skills and must show the physical and mental ability to manage the affairs of Nigeria.
The president we need must present the correct image of Nigeria abroad and stand tall among his peers at the United Nations and other international forums.
Commitment: We need someone who is committed and has the capacity to stop official corruption in this country. We have heard far too many talks about change. Enough of empty promises! We are tired of hearing sorry stories.
We want real changes, not endless pity parties and porous pledges.
Compassion: We want a leader who is concerned about the welfare of Nigerians, not his clique of praise singers. Our fellow citizens are in IDP camps. I spent Christmas and New Year with them.
They should be home. People die daily, are kidnapped, killed, and raped. No one in government offers the right level of response. It must end. We need a leader with the courage to do whatever it takes to bring relief to our citizens in distress.
Let us perfect the federation of our forefathers. Every generation is destined to make the country better. The post-Independence generation has arrived. This is our turn. This is our time. This is our chance to make a difference.
Making the same old choice will yield the same result. We are Nigerians. We are rational citizens. We can make rational decisions. Let us keep a date with our destiny. Let us make a new nation for future generations.
The world is watching. We must take our destined position as the giant of Africa. You and I know the right thing to do. The greatest lie one can tell is a lie to one’s soul. If you are still undecided, please talk to yourself. Allow your conscience to guide you.
No one is perfect but, ask yourself, “Should I choose someone I do not wish as a role model for my children?
Be introspective. Ask: Could I live with myself for making the wrong choice just for a moment just for few new naira notes or because of my region and my religion?
I believe you will make the right choice and vote Labour Party: LP (Mama. Papa, and Pikin): The election is not about Obi and Baba-Ahmed. This election is not about our ethnic groups, African traditional religion, Christianity, or Islam.
It is not about our sacred churches, mosques, and shrines. The election is about the future of this land that God gave to our great generation.
Why Labour? I will tell you.
We want to move our economy from importing and consuming products to producing, consuming less, and exporting more. That is the essence of Consumption to Production.
Datti and I will work hard every day and with everyone. Many things went wrong in the past 24 years. There are enough blames to go round. We will not share blames. We will share hope. No more excuses. In life, what matters more is not what happened to us; it is what we do with what happened to us. Honesty is the best policy. We must be truthful to ourselves. Truth is the essence of life. I pride myself in striving to be an upright citizen.
I endeavour to do the right things. Fairness is the golden rule: do unto others as you wish them to do unto you. When I fail, I learn.
Our revered Chinua Achebe stated that our humanity depends on the humanity of others. We are in this word with great gifts. Our world presents challenges and opportunities. Challenges stimulate our creativity.
We will use the opportunity of vast resources in our God-given earth to meet those challenges confronting humanity. The welfare of one is the welfare of all.
My modesty is not words of mouth: I live it. We can feed off each other’s simplicity. By producing more and consuming less, we can balance our needs, not wants,and make society more equitable. It makes no sense fighting over issues that require rational thinking & good conscience.
I love this country. It is not perfect. Nothing is perfect. Perfection is a continuum. The labours of our heroes past must not be in vain.
Please come out and vote for Labour Party (LP) Please subscribe to success, to the triumph of a tested, trusted, and verified leadership. Do not renew the subscription to suffering, to the sorrow of tomorrow.
A new Nigeria is possible. Let’s make it happen like a TEAM: Together, everyone achieves more.
These past months have been quite a journey. I have met millions of fellow Nigerians from all walks of life: men and women, young and old, rich and poor.
I thank our vice-presidential candidate, my brother, my friend and partner Senator Dr Datti Ahmed for coming with me on this journey. I thank the Obidients and my core team. History will record this campaign as the best: focused, friendly, mega rallies delivered with no shịshị, always respectful, and zero violence.
Salute to all of us!
We all made it happen: organically structured, passionate, united, and verified!
I ask you, my people, to empower me as your president and commander-in-chief. I will be in charge. I have the requirements for correct leadership: character, competence, commitment, compassion, hard work, honesty, humanity, and humility.
I have the courage and the heart with which to deliver the dividends of democracy freely and fairly to our people. Where we fail, hold me responsible; where we succeed, kudos to you. We can change this country. If it takes us making the supreme sacrifice, let us make it for a greater tomorrow.
I am most grateful that you found me worthy to take the torch and lead. I would not have come this far if you did not follow me. You are my strength, the wings that power the historic Obidient movement.
Let us make it for a greater tomorrow.
On~ behalf of all our dedicated team, I promise to deliver on all core values.
These are my thoughts. This coming Saturday, let us promote the Family Value – by voting for the Labour Party—LP: Mama, Papa, and Pikin.
Vote Labour correctly, peacefully, and hopefully. Labour Party: Forward Ever!
23RD FEBRUARY, 2023
DELTA PDP CAMPAIGN COUNCIL DISCLAIMER ON POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENTS/CLOSE OF CAMPAIGNS
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Delta State Campaign Council, wishes to alert our Local Government Campaign Organizations, Ward/Unit Campaign Outfits, and support groups amongst others, to TAKE NOTE that political campaigns ends at midnight, today, Thursday, 23rd February, 2023.
As a responsible political party that believes in and respects the rule of law, we call on all affiliate groups to pull down all campaign advertisements in the social media, in newspapers, magazines, radio, and television stations, in obedience and adherence to the electoral rules and guidelines for the 2023 general elections.
We, therefore call on all such groups to immediately comply with the electoral rules which bars and forbids political advertisements 24 hours before the elections.
We further wish to emphasize that the Delta State PDP Campaign Council will not take responsibility for any infringement, as anyone found culpable will be held fully responsible and bear the punitive consequences that may arise therefrom.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and relevant law enforcement agencies, are hereby put on Notice that the Delta State PDP Campaign Council, by this Public Statement, completely exonerates itself from any subsequent breaches that may occur and will take no responsibility for any infraction or contravention of the established guidelines, should anyone flout this regulation.
Please be informed and guided accordingly.
Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza,
Deputy Director, Media & Publicity,
Delta PDP Campaign Council/ State Publicity Secretary,
Delta State PDP.
23RD FEBRUARY, 2023
DELTA PDP URGES DELTANS TO VOTE ATIKU/OKOWA FOR PRESIDENCY, PDP ALL THE WAY FOR SENATE, HOUSE OF REPS, ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Campaign Council, has urged Deltans to come out en-masse and vote for Atiku Abubakar/Ifeanyi Okowa for President, as well as, all the Senatorial candidates in the 3 (three) Senatorial Zones of the State and 10 (Ten) Federal Constituencies in Delta State.
This appeal was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Deputy Director, Media/Publicity Committee, Delta PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State ahead of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, on Saturday, February 25, 2023.
The statement reads: “Beloved Deltans, friends, brothers, and sisters, on Saturday, February 25th we will come out once more, to perform our constitutional duty by voting for the man who will become the next President of our country, as well as the Members of the National Assembly, who will make the laws to guide our nation in the next four years.
“The election this year is arguably the most crucial and critical national assignment we have been faced with in our democratic journey because, never before in the history of our nation, has Nigeria and Nigerians been so divided, polarized, endangered, faced with life-threatening insecurity and a regime of unmitigated suffering, choking suffocation and prolonged uncertainty, foisted upon us, by the All Progressives Congress, APC; a government they elected by themselves, with their votes.
February 25 provides us with a great and the best opportunity to correct this mistake that has delivered eight years of endless horror by voting out the APC and returning Nigeria to the glorious era of peace, prosperity, a sense of belonging, and the patriotic confidence of knowing that our identity as Nigerians, which we enjoyed when the PDP administration was in power, will be achieved again.
As you go out to cast your vote on February 25, we urge you to come out en-masse and vote PDP all the way, comport yourselves with decency, discipline, and decorum, guard your votes jealously, and don’t allow anybody to harass, intimidate or cajole you with their actions. Remain steadfast and be vigilant, peaceful, and unwavering in your resolve to ensure that your votes will count and be counted, as we march to victory after the election.
Remember the code:
ATIKU/OKOWA for President.
VOTE the UMBRELLA on ALL the ballot papers.
VOTE PDP All the way.
Let Us Recover, Reset and Unify Nigeria Together.
PDP, Power to the People!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
2023 Elections: Technology experts explain how Atiku, Okowa’s voices were cloned
In the run-up to the 2023 Nigerian Presidential elections tomorrow 25th Febuary, a new kind of political attack campaign has emerged, using cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to clone the voices of political figures. The most recent example involves the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose voices has been cloned using A.I. technology in an attempt to discourage voters before tomorrow’s elections .
The viral voice recording, which purports to be Atiku Abubakar making comments about INEC, has been circulating on social media in Nigeria, causing a stir among the electorate. However, technology experts have now come forward to debunk the recording, pointing out irregularities that prove it is a fake, generated using sophisticated A.I. software that can mimic the sound and intonation of any human voice. They cited online services like www.respeecher.com and www.Resemble.ai which clone speech that are indistinguishable from the original speaker.
“Artificial intelligence is an incredible tool that has many useful applications, but it can also be used for nefarious purposes,” said Dr. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a technology expert based in Lagos. “In this case, someone has used A.I. to clone Atiku Abubakar’s voice and create a recording that never actually happened. We need to be vigilant and aware of these kinds of techniques, especially in the political sphere. I also hope the law enforcement authorities are getting more sophisticated inn their investigations to hold those propagating these sort of dangerous activities”
Dr. Ekekwe went on to explain that A.I. voice cloning technology has advanced rapidly in recent years, and it is now possible to create convincing fake recordings that are almost indistinguishable from real ones. However, there are ways to detect fake recordings, such as analyzing the waveform and frequency of the voice, which can reveal anomalies that are characteristic of A.I. generated speech.
As the Nigerian Presidential election approaches, it is likely that we will see more instances of A.I.-generated voice cloning being used in political campaigns. However, with the help of technology experts like Dr. Ekekwe, it is possible to expose these fake recordings and prevent them from influencing the outcome of the election.
Atiku to Nigerians: Ignore fake audio in circulation
- •••••Says it’s last kick of a dying horse
The Presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar has described as utter rubbish, an audio clip on social media wherein he purportedly revealed plans by himself, Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal; and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State to rig the presidential election.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday by Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr. Phrank Shaibu, the PDP presidential candidate, said the latest fake audio clip in circulation was a confirmation of his warning last week that the opposition would deepen its propaganda ahead of the election.
Shaibu said, “We warned last week that as the election approaches, there will be a spike in the rate of propaganda on social media. With barely 24 hours to the poll, we have witnessed propaganda from not just the All Progressives Congress but the Labour Party as well.
“In this latest drivel, a montage of speeches delivered by Atiku, Tambuwal, and Okowa since last year were manipulated and pieced together to give an impression that they were discussing plans to rig Saturday’s election. In this age of artificial intelligence technology, even dead people can be portrayed as delivering speeches. This is nothing new.
“For the record, Atiku has run in two presidential elections and has never been indicted or prosecuted for election violence or vote buying.
“But some people think they can sell a narrative of Atiku manipulating this election. This is indeed the height of desperation, the last kick of a dying horse. The APC and the Labour Party must note that elections are not won on social media but at the polling units.”
Atiku said the audio clip, which had been shared numerous times on WhatsApp, could be identified easily as a fake even from the tone of the purported discussants.
He added, “It is unfortunate that those seeking power will engage in outdated defeatist tactics. How can Tambuwal be referring to Atiku by his full name in a one-on-one private conversation? This is nonsensical, similar to the type of meaningless chatter about President Muhammadu Buhari being dead and replaced by one Jubril from Sudan.”
Atiku also advised his supporters not to engage in the propaganda war, which had become the style of both the APC and the Labour Party. He said they should respond by voting massively for the PDP on Saturday.
He added, “When they descend to the level of baseless propaganda, we will rise above it with dignity and respond with our PVCs. This election is a watershed in Nigerian history. Nigerians must not lose sight of what is most important, which is the need to rebuild this broken system, revitalize the economy, and improve security and the hope of the people in a united Nigeria.”
The presidential candidate called on the police and other security agencies as well as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain fair and neutral in the polls.
He asked them to go after those behind the audio tape in line with Section 123(c) of the Electoral Act which provides that any person who before or during an election publishes any statement to the personal character or conduct of a candidate calculated to prejudice the chance of election of the candidate or to promote or procure the election of another candidate and such statement is false and was published without reasonable grounds for belief by the person publishing it that the statement is true, commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a maximum of N100,000 or imprisonment for a term of six months or both.
Signed:
Phrank Shaibu
Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar
President candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Vice President of Nigeria.
Abuja.
24th February, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
20TH FEBRUARY, 2023
APC Lied Again In Shameless Hoax Headline
The attention of the Delta State PDP Campaign Council, has again been drawn to another diatribe sponsored by the sinking and shameless All Progressives Congress (APC), with the headline: “The growing rage against PDP in Delta State,” written this time, by two hack scribblers with the names – Ted Uwadiusor/Anthony Arugba.
The Deputy Director, Media/Publicity of the PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, reacting, described the write-up as the job of two hatchet men who, just like their colleagues in the past, made meaningless marks with their messy write-up.
The PDP notes that the headline given to the write-up exposed the writers as impetuous fellows who produced a dirty and disorderly work, produced largely from the figment of the imagination of their sponsors.
Discerning Deltans and other observers have since seen that what was put out was a potpourri of lies against the truth and reality on ground.
Indeed, the first lie is the headline which gave the impression that there’s extreme anger against PDP in Delta State. If anything, the growing rage is in fact against the APC, who Deltans have come to know as a lack-lustre party, one that cannot be trusted and believed, and one that lacks true progressive credentials. It is the reason the APC has become the most dumped and abandoned political party in Delta State, by ex-faithful that have now seen the light and made bold to walk away from the drowning political party. And the PDP has been the greatest beneficiary of those dumping the hapless opposition party.
Yes, pieces of evidence abound across all the 270 Wards and 25 Local Government Areas of Delta State, of how erstwhile faithful of the APC jumped ship and by sheer determination crossed over to the PDP. They did this through an open, public declaration of their decision and spiced with the reason they took such a decision. A few examples will suffice:
In Ward 5, Ekwukwu Agbor, Ika South, on November 11, 2022, the former Chairman of the APC in the Ward, Mr. Onyeme Libenson along with his supporters dumped the APC and embraced the PDP. Libenson said: “I have seen the good work being done by the PDP. Our women, traders are doing well because they are receiving help from the PDP administration. Our youths are receiving empowerment from the PDP administration in Delta State. APC has no administration. If APC wins again, things will be difficult for people in Nigeria. Buhari has failed; even the broom, APC symbol has become firewood.”
At Umunede Ward 11, Ika North East LGA, APC Ward 11 Chairman, Mr. Abel Adagbor openly dumped the party and embraced the PDP. He said the APC was not on ground in the Local Government Area.
At Ndokwa West LGA, Ward 1, Eke market, Kwale, the Integrity Ladies led by Philomena Ojeje dumped the APC openly and embraced the PDP. She said: “APC are liars and big deceivers. There’s no road in APC.” Also at Onicha-Ukwuani Ward 5, Chigwe Ojodume, while decamping from the APC said he had been suffering in the APC. “I have returned to the PDP; this broom will be burnt. Now I throw away this broom that should go away with all the bad things associated with it,” he said.
At Ughelli North LGA, Chief Osiobe and his followers dumped the APC for the PDP. Osiobe said: “I am here today to tell you that there’s no other party than the PDP. We are here to tell you that the PDP will win across board in 2023.”
Just on Saturday, February 18, former Secretary of the APC in Delta State and foundation member of the party, Nick Ovuakpore who renounced his membership of the APC openly during the PDP Presidential Campaign Rally at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, received his PDP membership card from the party’s Chairman in Oyede Ward 12, Isoko North LGA, Mr. Joel Orute.
Receiving his PDP membership card, Mr. Ovuakpore promised to bring electoral value to the PDP, saying: “It is incumbent on me to deliver my Unit and Ward to the PDP. I am from Unit 005 of this Ward. The result from my Unit will prove my mettle. I assure you that I will win my Unit and Ward for the PDP in the coming elections.” He described the APC as crisis-ridden and that the party stands no chance at the polls.
The forgoing exposes the lie put up by the political jobbers in their reckless write-up.
The points of eulogies made to try to shore up the image value of the APC Delta State Governorship candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege has long been deflated and flattened by several write-ups on him that abound in the public domain, that it will be superfluous to warrant repeat here. Except to state that Omo-Agege has no electoral value in the Gubernatorial contest, one being a loner and a soldier without troops. He is on his own, especially as it is said that a tree cannot make a forest.
Incidentally, Omo-Agege’s attack dogs have their focus on His Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, who is already on a pedestal higher than Omo-Agege. The one that Omo-Agege has to contend with is the indomitable Delta State PDP Governorship candidate and Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Oborevwori is a tested politician, and grassroots mobiliser; he is street-wise, a quality that Omo-Agege lacks, yet, one among many other qualities that endeared Oborevwori to the PDP family and Deltans in general. He is the man that Ovie Omo-Agege has to contend with.
So, all the fuss for which he is sponsoring hack writers to do against Dr. Okowa is all misplaced aggression. Governor Okowa has already gone past the position that the APC Governorship candidate seeks. Okowa has his eyes on a higher position.
Omo-Agege is therefore advised to face the consequences of his imminent defeat by the one that is already well-positioned to deliver to him that electoral uppercut. That person is Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Ukodo of the universe and Delta State PDP Governorship candidate in the forthcoming March 11th, 2023 election.
With the above, we in the PDP Campaign Council dismiss the silly, poor, and messy message in its headline as a shameless hoax.
VOTE FOR THE UMBRELLA!
VOTE PDP ALL THE WAY!!
PDP! Power to the people!!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
