Why I want to be Nigeria’s president — Donald Duke
Donald Duke Outlines Vision for Nigeria’s Presidency
By Soni Daniel, Northern Region Editor
ABUJA — Donald Duke, the presidential candidate for the Peoples Redemption Party, expressed his intention to enter the presidential race, emphasizing a commitment to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges and to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Duke reflected on the unfulfilled potential of Nigeria’s leadership since the country’s return to democratic governance in 1979. He pledged to provide the leadership necessary to bridge the significant gaps that have developed over the years.
“Frustration in the political system has existed since the return to democracy. We could have achieved more if we had the right leadership,” he stated. Duke contended that while successive leaders have come into power with political agendas, none have articulated a coherent leadership vision for the nation.
He asserted that his candidacy aims to change the dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape and foster necessary development and growth. “We need to present to Nigerians what we can do for the country, rather than engage in mudslinging,” he said.
Duke criticized past leaders for lacking a clear plan upon assuming office, which he believes contributed to the government’s inability to meet citizens’ needs. He argued that if the opposition comes together to endorse a single candidate, it stands a stronger chance of unseating the current government in the January 2027 elections.
He warned that without a unified opposition, the ruling administration would likely secure victory. Duke emphasized that even with the All Progressives Congress (APC) controlling a majority of states, they could be vulnerable to a well-organized opposition.
Addressing economic issues, Duke advocated for the continuation of fuel subsidies, arguing it is unjust for citizens to face high fuel prices while the country benefits from its oil resources. He expressed support for the establishment of state police, citing the increase in crime driven by poverty.
Duke also acknowledged the initiative of student loans as a positive step but stressed that without job creation policies, beneficiaries would struggle to repay these loans. He proposed that improving alignment between government spending and revenue generation could lead to greater wealth creation and alleviate poverty across the nation.
Atiku Abubakar Promises Direct Local Government Funding
By Juliet Umeh
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has pledged to ensure that local government councils receive their funds directly upon taking office.
Despite a Supreme Court ruling that local governments should access their federal allocations directly, many councils still face obstacles, stalling grassroots development. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, Abubakar emphasized his commitment to uphold the rule of law and the independence of local governments.
He accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of failing to enforce the court’s ruling, suggesting that this inaction was intended to placate state governors who previously controlled local government finances.
“My administration will respect court judgments, safeguard local government autonomy, and ensure that public funds are directed to the people for whom they are intended,” Abubakar stated. He believes this approach will facilitate development at the grassroots level and enhance local governments’ ability to combat crime and terrorism.
Abubakar criticized the current administration, asserting that political motives related to the upcoming presidential elections are influencing its handling of local government funding. “This is not the Nigeria we should accept,” he concluded.
