Former Minister Backs Direct Primaries In Taraba, Rejects Consensus Push

Former Minister Backs Direct Primaries in Taraba, Rejects Consensus Push Former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, has thrown his weight behind the adoption of direct primaries in Taraba State, urging political stakeholders to allow party members determine candidates through open participation rather than consensus arrangements. Speaking amid ongoing political consultations ahead of party primaries in the state, Mamman argued that internal democracy remains the strongest foundation for credible elections and party unity. He maintained that allowing delegates and grassroots members to vote directly would strengthen confidence among party supporters and reduce internal disputes that often follow consensus decisions. According to the former minister, consensus arrangements risk alienating loyal party members who feel excluded from the candidate selection process. He stressed that democratic participation ensures fairness and enhances legitimacy for eventual flagbearers. Mamman called on party leaders to prioritise transparency, insisting that aspirants should earn nominations through competitive processes rather than negotiated agreements among influential figures. The former minister also appealed to party faithful across Taraba State to remain united and actively participate in the political process, noting that credible primaries would position the party strongly ahead of future elections. His comments come as political parties nationwide continue to debate the merits of direct primaries, indirect primaries and consensus candidacy as mechanisms for selecting candidates. Meanwhile, the Nigeria Immigration Service has dismissed circulating fraud allegations while warning Nigerians against making passport payments through unauthorised channels. In a statement, the agency clarified that all passport application payments must be carried out strictly through its official online portal and approved government platforms. The service cautioned applicants to avoid third-party agents and unofficial websites claiming to fast-track passport processing, describing many of such platforms as fraudulent schemes designed to defraud unsuspecting citizens. Officials emphasised that the NIS does not authorise cash payments or unofficial intermediaries, urging Nigerians to verify information only through official communication channels. The agency added that security agencies are working to track and prosecute individuals behind fake payment platforms, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding applicants and improving transparency in passport administration. NIS further encouraged members of the public to report suspicious payment requests or fraudulent platforms to immigration offices nationwide.