by admin | Apr 1, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
On Tuesday, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the Kogi Central Senatorial District, called upon Nigerians to blame Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, and former governor Yahaya Bello should she and her followers face any attacks.
Akpoti-Uduaghan sounded the warning in a posting on her official Facebook page.
She stated, “Dear residents of Kogi Central, I am looking forward to our tranquil Sallah festivities today.”
Nevertheless, if we encounter or are subjected to violence, Nigerians ought to entirely blame Governor Òdodo, Yahaya Bello, and SP Godswill Akpabio.
Her caution follows shortly after she asserted in a statement that she intends to proceed with her planned trip to her constituency during the Eid-al-Fitr holiday and the rally set for when she returns.
The senator additionally encouraged her followers to ignore rumors circulating that she has canceled her planned appearance.
Although emphasizing her legal duty as a legislator advocating for her constituents, the challenged senator urged her followers to gather together to join her in marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.
On Monday, the government of Kogi State imposed a ban on rallies and public meetings within the state due to ‘security concerns’.
The authorities halted fishing and similar activities, claiming these pursuits were responsible for the deaths of two individuals in Kasemiya, Katubo, and Umozu Ette—all within the Kogi Local Government Area in Kogi West—just recently.
Commissioner Kingsley Fanwo, who oversees information, stated that this step was taken to avoid any potential security breaches that could disrupt the stability of the state.
In a similar vein, the Kogi Police Command cautioned Akpoti-Uduagan against proceeding with her intended Sallah rally.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, indicated that the proposed assembly contradicts the state government’s recently imposed prohibition on political gatherings. This ban was declared on Monday.
In the meantime, videos allegedly showing a rally for the senator’s return began circulating on social media platforms.
At the time of submitting this report, Senator Bashir Haroon from Kogi State broadcasted a live video clip depicting thousands of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s followers—predominantly women—who were enthusiastically singing and beating drums in eager expectation of her arrival.
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by admin | Mar 30, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
Trans Nzoia Governor
Recently, George Natembeya has come to prominence in conversations surrounding the 2027 General Election.
Although he portrays himself as daring
and
an independent leader harboring national aspirations; however, upon closer examination of his political tactics, a distinct storyline emerges.
Governor
It seems Natembeya is not so much his own person but rather a pawn being maneuvered by various political powers.
,. His
The main objective seems to be disrupting the voting block in Western Kenya, which is a key support base for President William Ruto’s campaign to secure re-election.
Natembeya’s rapid ascent to nationwide recognition sparks curiosity, particularly considering he has only recently taken office as governor. His statements and deeds indicate someone more focused on national politics than on ensuring another term in Trans Nzoia. This is perplexing because politicians typically in his situation should concentrate on strengthening their support locally and fulfilling commitments made to voters. However, Natembeya appears to be aiming for a broader stage, which hints at outside interference instead of genuine personal aspirations.
The area in Western Kenya, which is the traditional homeland of the Luhya people, is an important voting zone that has traditionally had a significant impact on the outcomes of presidential elections. For Ruto, keeping cohesion within this region is essential for securing another term in office.
Nonetheless, Natembeya’s latest comments and behaviors indicate an intentional effort to create division and fragment the Western vote. By presenting himself as a Luhya figure capable of representing his community in negotiations, Natembeya is diminishing the authority of current leadership.
such as PCS
Musalia Mudavadi and
Speaker
Moses Wetang’ula.
This division advantages neither the Luhya community nor the area’s political unity; instead, it favors those aiming to undermine Ruto’s backing. Natembeya siding with certain individuals
for example, a deputy president who was impeached
Rigathi Gachagna continues to fuel doubts about his genuine intentions.
Gachauga’s open support for Natembeya, along with the governor’s recurrent criticism of the Ruto administration, indicates a possible strategic move to foster division within the Western Kenya political arena.
Although Natembeya insists he isn’t aligned with Gachagna or any other politicians, his deeds contradict his claims. His outspoken criticism of the administration, frequently presented before the President, goes beyond what one would expect from a governor primarily concerned with regional progress. This behavior suggests an intentional move to establish himself as a key opponent at the national level.
Furthermore, Natembeya’s assertion that the upcoming President must be a Luhya is an obvious strategy to mobilize his community’s support.
,
At the same time, this approach could antagonize other leaders. Although this story may resonate with certain individuals, it has the potential to split the Luhya votes and diminish the area’s influence in nationwide politics.
Natembeya positions himself as the representative of Western Kenya, not promoting cohesion but ensuring his personal political endurance. By criticizing Mudavadi and Wetang’ula—whom he claims support the current power structure—he aims to undermine their authority and generate an opening for his ascendancy into leadership.
Natembeya’s political approach is filled with inconsistencies. While he purports to advocate for the advancement of the Luhya community into positions of power, he simultaneously exhibits contradictory behaviors.
and
On the contrary, his actions appear to advantage outside entities aiming to disrupt the area.
His unexpected engagement in national politics, combined with his hesitation to work towards winning a second term as governor, indicates that he might be serving as a pawn for other political figures aiming to disrupt the voting in Western Kenya.
The political strategies employed by George Natembeya are primarily aimed at promoting the interests of individuals seeking to hinder President Ruto’s chances of re-election, rather than focusing on the welfare of Trans Nzoia residents or the Luhya community.
By presenting himself as a national leader and fostering division within the Western Kenya group, Natembeya is engaging in a perilous maneuver that might have significant implications for the area’s political landscape.
The residents of Western Kenya need to recognize this deception and call for leaders who focus on their needs rather than getting entangled in outside political maneuvers. Although Natembeya might profess to speak for the common folk, his deeds indicate that he is just a piece in a bigger political strategy.
Japheth K. Otiende
is
A Kenyan national living in Botswana
A and remarks about political matters
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by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | political debates, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
As political alliances shifted leading up to the 2027 general elections, Ralph Nwosu, who serves as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), mentioned that over the last year, he hasn’t encountered Peter Obi, the presidential nominee for the Labour Party.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja at the 97th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the ADC, Nwosu stated that if Obi values what the party is doing and wishes to join them, they would be more than happy to welcome him with open arms.
When asked about alliances with other parties, Nwosu revealed that the ADC is holding discussions with the People’s Redemption Party (PRP) as well as various civil society groups.
At the NEC meeting, the ADC Chairman commented, “One of our resolutions aims to establish ‘the handshake’ as a nationwide tradition in Nigeria by October 1st. This custom will be observed in each of the country’s 36 states.”
The second resolution states that according to one of our guidelines, you must be part of the ADC party for at least two years before being able to contest an election within the organization. However, due to many individuals advocating for more flexibility, we are modifying this rule. If you decide to join ADC today, you will immediately become eligible to run for elections or take on a leadership role within the party without having to wait those two years. Therefore, we are adopting this new resolution which eliminates the waiting period requirement.
We have considered organizing a national convention as well. Some among us, including myself, do not plan to vie for the position of National Chairman this time around. My intention is not to seek office; instead, I wish to pass the torch to fellow Nigerians capable of rallying more than 80 million citizens. We aim to enter the upcoming political phase alongside regular Nigerians known for their integrity and lack of corrupt practices. These politicians will confront Nigeria’s challenges head-on and declare ‘enough is enough.’
Nwosu was asked whether he had met with Peter Obi. He replied, “In the last twelve months, I haven’t encountered Mr. Peter Obi; we can’t engage with him at this time. However, should he decide to observe what we’re undertaking after witnessing it firsthand—though our efforts aren’t geared toward politicians but rather towards uplifting Nigerians—I’m far more invested in the African Farmers Club, which boasts over ten million members. If his observation of ADC leads him to conclude ‘enough is enough’ and prompts him to want to align himself with us, then we would gladly extend an invitation to join forces—we welcome them all as our doors remain wide open.”
We are holding meetings with PRP and various civil society groups, these traditions of confronting Nigerians head-on and declaring that enough is enough, we will appeal to Nigerians to embrace us.
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by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has urged for the commemoration of former INEC Chairman, Professor Humphrey Nwosu, emphasizing that Nigeria hasn’t treated him justly.
Late Nwosu served as the Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) and held the position of Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 1989 to 1993.
The electoral commission during his tenure organized the June 12, 1993 elections, which were clinched by the presidential nominee from the former Social Democratic Party (SDP), Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Abiola.
The election deemed to be the most free and fair was nullified by the previous military president, General Ibrahim Babangida.
During the afternoon session dedicated to honoring the former chairperson of the Commission, Professor Yakubu expressed his condolences in a eulogy for the recently departed Professor Nwosu, lamenting the insufficient acknowledgment he received.
He stated: “Professor Nwosu put forth his utmost effort, but this was often overlooked by numerous individuals, even those who initially brought him aboard during the vast transformation from military governance to democratic rule. This period culminated with the nullification of the presidential elections conducted in 1993, leading to the disbanding of the electoral body and paving the way for an interim administration.”
Associated News from June 12 includes: An APGA chieftain has urged President Tinubu to rename the INEC headquarters after Humphrey Nwosu. The organization continues to stress the importance of tribunals for handling electoral offenses. Additionally, various Arewa groups have opposed calls for the dismissal of INEC chairman Yakubu.
Nevertheless, over time, the result of his endeavor has gained widespread recognition. The election is now hailed as one of the finest in Nigerian history. Even those who nullified it have voiced their remorse.
“Twenty-five years after 1993, in June 2018, Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who was believed to be the victor of the 1993 presidential election, was awarded the country’s top honor, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), bestowed posthumously.”
His running partner, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe, received the nation’s second-highest honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). The day of the election, June 12th, 1993, has been officially declared a public holiday known as Democracy Day.
Unfortunately, the electoral commission responsible for conducting the election led by Professor Nwosu garnered little recognition, seeming as though nobody had organized the entire process.
Undoubtedly, the election did not organize itself; it was managed by a commission comprised of commissioners and a chairman. Should it have been overlooked during his lifetime that Professor Nwosu did not receive due recognition, it would be fitting for the relevant authorities to honor him posthumously.
Professor Yakubu, recalling other significant accomplishments of the late Nwosu from his tenure, reassured the family of the late Professor Nwosu that the Commission would keep acknowledging Professor Nwosu’s commendable contributions and devoted service to the country.
He implemented numerous advancements in electoral administration. Physically speaking, he established the groundwork for the Commission’s autonomy by introducing the present tripartite hierarchical framework of the commission, featuring branches at national, state, and local government tiers.
He implemented several changes in how elections were managed during his term. This period is closely associated with the Open Ballot System, commonly known as Option A4, where voters lined up according to the emblem representing their preferred political party for both voting and being officially tallied.
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by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
Kalonzo Musyoka, a prominent figure in the opposition group known as Wiper, has voiced his worries about the transparency and impartiality surrounding the restructuring of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). These concerns arise after an agreement was reached between President William Ruto and ex-Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
At an event held in Kiambu County, Kalonzo revealed that he had sent a letter to Odinga stressing the importance of fair representation when choosing IEBC commissioners.
“I believed Raila would support me consistently from start to finish, but now I’ve reached out to him because we need to clarify matters to avoid any misunderstandings,” Musyoka stated.
He voiced concern that the Ruto-Odinga pact could have negative repercussions for the execution of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, specifically regarding the restructuring of the IEBC.
“We are awaiting the appropriate moment when the committee choosing the commissioners should ensure an equitable nomination process. During our discussion of the NADCO report with the Kikuyu member of parliament, I advocated for collaboration and agreement,” Musyoka stated.
The leader of the Wipers also expressed his hope for Odinga’s backing in maintaining transparency, noting that he had officially conveyed his worries to avoid any possible misunderstandings.
“As a nation, we have arrived at a point where everyone, especially our leaders, seems uncertain about Kenya’s direction. However, for us, we stand as a devoted opposition of the people,” Kalonzo stated firmly.
The reconstruction of the IEBC has been central to the NADCO talks, with officials from both the government and the opposition urging for prompt action.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah stated that tackling the reform of the IEBC is essential, whereas Kalonzo stressed that prioritizing electoral justice, including an audit of the 2022 presidential vote, should come first.
The NADCO report, which provides suggestions for electoral reforms, has faced hurdles such as legal impediments.
Following objections from a petitioner regarding its content, the High Court in Kiambu halted the execution of the decision. This has led Kalonzo to accuse the Kenya Kwanza administration of trying to obstruct the realization of the report.
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by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | government, political science, politics, politics and government, politics and law
As Kenya approaches the heightened political season of 2026 with just one year left, President William Ruto encounters a crucial juncture in his tenure.
This phase is vital for solidifying his developmental priorities before politics dominates the national conversation.
The political scene is changing quickly, presenting unforeseen hurdles due to an enthusiastic and vocal generation—the Gen Z movement—finding its footing among younger demographics.
What issues is Generation Z presenting for Ruto’s government?
Their impact is expanding, their communication is straightforward, and they are demonstrating remarkable resilience under continued strain.
Recent occurrences have highlighted the extent of their organization. During the Safari Rally in Naivasha and at the football match between Kenya and Gabon, the phrase “Ruto Raila Must Go” reverberated through the spectators.
These occurrences were part of an organized plan rather than random events, and this approach is becoming increasingly popular. It’s noteworthy that this initiative has spread into areas once regarded as neutral or non-political domains.
The noise is spilling over into churches, a realm where the president once enjoyed unchallenged dominance. Even places of worship have not been spared from this new wave of defiance.
This rebellion differs from conventional opposition movements as it doesn’t center around political figures or pre-existing frameworks.
This approach is direct and untampered, flourishing through impromptu interactions. The difficulty for the president lies in the absence of one key figure to engage in talks, no hidden negotiations to secure, and no sum of financial incentives capable of suppressing it.
This is an organic movement fueled by frustration, economic circumstances, and a generation determined not to be overlooked.
Given these circumstances, Ruto needs to adjust his strategy. It would be unwise for him to participate in heated debates or try to overshadow the criticism via competing events and additional public engagements.
Implementing that approach would merely exacerbate the situation. Instead, he should focus on engaging with governmental operations and allow his actions to convey his message.
Government ministries, departments, and agencies ought to spearhead the demonstration of advancements.
It falls upon them to convey the administration’s accomplishments, rather than the president doing so directly.
What strategies can William Ruto employ to lessen criticism?
He ought to avoid giving in to the urge to react immediately to distractions and concentrate on producing concrete outcomes instead.
By withdrawing from public attention and focusing on administration, the nation’s leader will generate an air of intrigue surrounding his leadership.
The further he remains from public disputes, the less chance his opponents have to challenge him according to their preferences.
His absence from the daily show will compel his rivals to step into the breach, revealing their shortcomings and dearth of a viable strategy.
The Generation Z movement isn’t fading away. Their presence will remain strong, their tactics will adapt, and their impact will expand.
Ruto’s most effective approach would be not to confront the tide head-on but rather elevate himself above it. He needs to reduce his visibility, concentrate more on governance, and fully dedicate himself to state affairs.
His quietness will convey more powerfully than any protest march. Through his efforts, he shall build his shield. By 2026, as the nation becomes deeply entangled in political affairs, he would have established a heritage robust enough to endure the clamor.
Billy Mijungu, who is both a political analyst and a commentator on Kenyan politics, ran as a Senate candidate for Migori County in 2022.
The opinions stated here belong solely to the author and do not necessarily reflect the stance of LIFEHACK.co.ke.
