As the 2023 general elections draw near, eligible voters in Jos, Plateau State, are expressing worry over the delay in the distribution of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
The voters say they have been visiting centers designated for the collection of the PVCs but were unable to collect theirs as they were told that they were not available.
Our correspondent who visited some of the ward registration centers reported that some of them were deserted while others were filled with people waiting to collect their PVCs.
Community leaders at the ward collation centers of Gangare and Islamiyya in Jos metropolis said voters were coming to pick up their PVCs, but the numbers of those getting theirs were not very high.
Shu’aibu Hussaini, who was at the Gangare registration center said, “I came to pick up my PVC but I wasn’t able to. They told me they haven’t seen mine.”
Abubakar Danladi, another Jos resident said, “I came to collect my PVC, but I was told mine was not available. They told me that some PVCs were yet to be received.”
The voters, however, expressed optimism that they would get their cards before the deadline for the distribution ended.
Renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and founder of Saheeto Signature, Prince Saheed Kekere-Ekun, popularly known as “The King of Small Chops,” joined top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party’s grand finale rally in Ado-Ekiti, throwing his weight behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s bid for a second term in office.
The well-attended rally brought together Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, serving governors, ministers, lawmakers and thousands of party supporters in what has been described as one of the largest political gatherings in Ekiti State ahead of the governorship election.
Prince Kekere-Ekun, whose influence extends beyond business into philanthropy and public engagement, was seen interacting with several party leaders, including Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the APC presented a united front in support of Governor Oyebanji.
Speaking after the rally, Prince Kekere-Ekun said his presence in Ekiti was driven by his belief in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and the progress recorded under his administration.
“Governor Biodun Oyebanji has shown genuine commitment to the development of Ekiti State. His style of leadership is inclusive, people-focused and development-driven. I came to stand with him because I believe he deserves the opportunity to continue the good work he has started.”
He described the massive turnout at the rally as a clear indication of the governor’s growing popularity across the state.
“The atmosphere here speaks volumes. You can feel the enthusiasm and the confidence of the people. It is inspiring to see Ekiti people united behind a leader they believe has their interest at heart.”
Prince Kekere-Ekun also urged party supporters to remain peaceful and focused as the election approaches.
“Democracy is strengthened when people participate peacefully and responsibly. I encourage everyone to come out, support the candidate of their choice and ensure that the process remains peaceful. For me, Governor Oyebanji has earned the trust and confidence of the people through his performance.”
Widely recognised as “The King of Small Chops” for building one of Nigeria’s most successful hospitality brands, Prince Kekere-Ekun has continued to expand his influence beyond entrepreneurship, maintaining strong relationships across business, politics and community development.
His appearance at the APC mega rally further reflects his support for progressive governance and his commitment to initiatives aimed at advancing development and economic growth.
As Ekiti prepares for the governorship election, Prince Saheed Kekere-Ekun’s presence alongside the party’s top leadership added yet another notable voice to the growing campaign for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election, reinforcing the message of continuity and confidence in the administration’s vision for the state.
The National Democratic Congress, NDC, in Zamfara State has expressed concern over the resurgence of banditry in parts of the state and criticised the Federal Government over what it described as inadequate protection of lives and property.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Gusau by the party’s Assistant Publicity Secretary, Murtala Gusau, the state chairman, Surajo Garba Maikatako, commiserated with communities affected by recent attacks in Zurmi, Maradun and Anka local government areas.
The party also sympathised with security agencies over the death of three police officers killed in an explosion along the Bagega-Anka road.
“The NDC sympathises with security agencies over the death of three police officers as a result of an explosion, and with communities in Zurmi, Maradun and Anka over the resurgence of banditry activities,” the statement said.
According to the party, persistent attacks on communities reflected leadership challenges and underscored the need for improved security measures.
The NDC also expressed concern over comments attributed to the state governor during a BBC interview, in which he reportedly said he did not promise to end insecurity during his election campaign.
The party further commiserated with the Zamfara State Police Command and the families of the three Explosive Ordnance Disposal, EOD, officers who died in the line of duty.
“The party received with shock the death of three gallant EOD police officers. It is an unfortunate incident. Security agencies were advised to step up efforts in the fight against insecurity,” the statement added.