He acknowledged the support he received from APC leadership at ward, local government, state, and national levels throughout his time in the party, but said he was now following a new political path guided by his own convictions.

After the letter was read, Falgore asked Shuwaki directly whether he had submitted the resignation letter himself. The lawmaker confirmed he had, and added that he had actually crossed to the PDP several months earlier.

He explained that ongoing political consultations had caused a delay in formally presenting the letter to the Assembly. Shuwaki used the occasion to thank his supporters and former political allies

in Tudun Wada for helping him secure his seat in the Assembly. He called on the public to maintain unity and goodwill regardless of political differences.

Falgore disclosed that the Assembly had received Shuwaki’s resignation letter roughly two months before Monday’s plenary but chose not to present it immediately.

The Speaker said he held back the letter following consultations with the lawmaker to confirm whether he still intended to proceed with the defection.

When it became clear Shuwaki was not changing his mind, Falgore moved to formally read the letter before the House.

“The unity, stability and continued progress of Nigeria must take precedence over personal political ambition,” Imumolen said.

The former presidential aspirant listed 10 reasons for backing Tinubu, including what he described as their shared views on economic reforms, education, industrialisation, youth empowerment and national development.

He also praised the President’s leadership ability, political experience and commitment to progressive governance.

Imumolen said Tinubu had demonstrated an ability to identify and empower talented individuals while promoting inclusive leadership.

He expressed confidence that the administration’s economic and fiscal reforms would place Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth, despite the hardship currently facing many citizens.

The Accord chieftain argued that continuity in governance and consistency in policy implementation were important for strengthening public institutions and attracting investment.

He added that sustaining the government’s reform programme could support job creation and accelerate national development.

Imumolen maintained that his involvement in politics had always been driven by a desire to serve the country rather than merely occupy public office.

He stated, “My aspiration has always been to serve Nigeria and not merely to occupy public office.

“Whenever the national interest is better served through unity and strategic collaboration, I will always choose Nigeria above personal political ambition.”

He described his withdrawal and endorsement of Tinubu as a deliberate sacrifice made in what he considered the country’s best interest.

“Our decision to withdraw our presidential candidature and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a deliberate sacrifice made in the interest of Nigeria,” he added.

Imumolen called on members of the Accord Party, his political supporters, professionals and other Nigerians to support Tinubu’s re-election campaign ahead of the 2027 general election.

He said collaboration with the President would offer a better opportunity to advance the policies and development objectives he had hoped to pursue through his presidential campaign.

Source: Naija News

What is Umuganura Day?

Umuganura is one of Rwanda’s most significant cultural observances. The festival gives thanks to God and ancestors for the bounty of the land and marks the collective effort of communities in cultivating it. Despite being called a harvest festival, it is observed before the harvest begins, a tradition rooted in the practice of elders tasting the fruits of the new season before any family member is permitted to do so.

The celebration starts within individual families and then expands into wider community gatherings where traditional foods, crafts, and performances are shared. Rwandan restaurants and cultural centres, both at home and abroad, typically mark the occasion with special offerings tied to the country’s culinary heritage.

Agriculture sits at the heart of why the day carries such weight. About 80% of Rwanda’s labour force is engaged in farming activities, which contribute roughly 40% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. Tea and coffee are the country’s most important cash crops, making up around 80% of its agricultural exports.

History of Umuganura festival

Umuganura has survived considerable upheaval. Germany colonised Rwanda in 1899 as part of German East Africa, and Belgium took control in 1916 during World War I. The prolonged period of colonial rule disrupted the festival, and it went uncelebrated for many years. Rwanda gained independence in July 1962, and the country gradually rebuilt its national identity in the decades that followed.

Despite its ancient origins, Umuganura was only formally recognised as a public holiday in 2011. Beyond its cultural significance, the day also serves as an occasion to reflect on the country’s yearly achievements across the sectors that drive national development.