Police operatives arrested two members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and two staffers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Iperu Remo, with huge sums of cash allegedly meant for rigging the by-election into the Remo Federal Constituency House of Representatives.
The suspects, arrested in the early hours of Saturday, were reported to have provided very useful information to the police regarding their respective roles in the grand plan to bribe election officials and rig the House of Representatives by-election.
In a video recording, police could be seen interrogating the suspects comprising four males and a female.
The INEC staffers, a man who identified himself simply as Constance and a woman who identified herself as Amina, claimed to have been sent by their supervisor to collect the money from a certain PDP politician in the area.
The Kaduna chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defended its member, Shehu Aliyu Pantagi, arrested by security operatives with N30 million cash, insisting the money was meant strictly for election logistics and party agents, and not vote buying.
Addressing reporters in Kaduna on Saturday, Kaduna PDP chairman, Sir Edward Percy Masha, described the allegation of vote buying as “false, malicious, and politically motivated.,” maintaining that the seized funds were intended to facilitate the work of PDP agents and officials during the by-elections across the state.
According to him, every party mobilises agents, supervisors and collation officers during elections, and such structures require funding.
He noted that with over 5,000 PDP agents deployed across the constituencies, the seized N30m amounted to little more than stipends for their welfare.
According to him: “Let me make it clear: that money was for election logistics. We have 169 wards, and if you multiply the number of agents, supervisors, and collation officers by their allowances, you will arrive at well over N30m. That is the reality. To now turn around and say it was for vote buying is mischievous and an insult to the intelligence of Nigerians.”
Masha lamented the party has been the target of harassment by security agencies working, in his words, “at the behest of the Kaduna State government.”
He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of weaponising state institutions to intimidate the opposition.
He recalled that only a day earlier, security operatives raided the campaign council office of the PDP candidate for Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, Princess Esther Ashivelli Dawaki, and whisked away several party officials, including the state publicity secretary, zonal chairman, youth leader, women leaders, and over 18 others.
The PDP boss said the spate of arrests and seizures showed desperation on the part of the APC, which, according to him, is jittery about losing the by-elections. He stressed that no amount of intimidation would deter the PDP from participating fully in the polls.
“If the APC is confident of its performance, it should go to the field and let the people decide. Resorting to Gestapo tactics and propaganda only shows they are scared of defeat,” he declared.
Masha urged security agencies to remain neutral and professional, warning that compromising their role could endanger the integrity of the electoral process and peace in Kaduna State.
He also appealed to PDP supporters to remain calm and resolute, assuring them that the party will pursue justice through all legal and constitutional means.
“We will not be intimidated, and we will not be silenced. Our responsibility is to ensure that democracy thrives in Kaduna State. We call on our members and supporters to stay strong, vote their conscience, and reject every attempt to manipulate the process,” he added.
The PDP chairman further called on civil society organisations, the media, and the international community to beam their searchlight on Kaduna’s by-elections, warning that democracy in the state was “under serious threat.”
Gov. Francis Nwifuru has declared that Ebonyi people are proud to identify with President Bola Tinubu due to his bold decisions which marks him as a great leader.
Nwifuru made the declaration in Abakaliki during a town hall meeting organised by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris on the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The governor noted that it is difficult for one to be great leader without the willpower to take bold decisions.
“The bold decisions taken by the president has hard implications but Nigerians are currently seeing the benefits.
“Tinubu’s presidency is spiritual and though human beings can fight, his God is with him.
“This is the reason he is succeeding and we are all seeing the successes he is recording,” he said.
He noted that the president trusts and loves him so much which contributes greatly to the successes recorded in the state’s governance.
“There is no other way to reciprocate this gesture except to demonstrate that I have the needed strength and capacity to deliver him.
“When the time comes, we would face those making noise and show them our stuff,” he said.
Nwifuru said his administration has recorded giant strides in infrastructure, human capital development, health, education among other sectors.
“I felt this delegation should have stayed for three days in Ebonyi to tour and report what we are doing to the president.
“Ebonyi has been blessed with good leaders since creation and the support of its stakeholders and people have been top notch,” he said.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris thanked Ebonyi people for the reception, noting that the delegation was awed by the mammoth turn-out at the event.
“The president is currently out of the country but he is watching this event and will definitely be happy.
““What we have seen in Ebonyi is awesome and could have opted to stay for days to monitor ongoing state and federal government projects across the state.
“We just monitored about 20 per cent of the projects and this showed that Ebonyi is greatly feeling the impact of the president’s renewed hope agenda,” he said.
He assured Ebonyi people and Nigerians of continued delivery of democratic dividends, asserting that a “winning team is not supposed to be changed”.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders who include National Assembly members, All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwarts among others, affirmed Ebonyi people’s continued support to president Tinubu.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kaduna State has accused security operatives of abducting its House of Representatives candidate for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency bye-election, Princess Esther Ashivelli Dawaki, with 25 supporters.
In a statement on Saturday by its Chairman, Sir Edward Percy Masha, the PDP alleged that the operation was carried out by “Operation Fushin Kada” — a joint security network under the Kaduna State Government.
The opposition party claimed the operatives stormed City Den Hotel in Malali, broke into a room in search of the PDP Campaign Council Chairman, Hon. Hussein Ahmed-Kero, and, when they could not find him, whisked away Dawaki and others.
The party described the alleged action as “a brazen act of harassment, intimidation and insanity” purportedly orchestrated by Governor Uba Sani and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). It demanded the immediate and unconditional release of its candidate and supporters.
The PDP further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the DSS, the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defence Staff to intervene, accusing security forces of being used to suppress the opposition ahead of the polls.
It urged civil society groups and “all lovers of democracy” to rise against what it termed an assault on democracy and the constitution in Kaduna State. “For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP will not be intimidated or silenced,” the party said, vowing to resist any attempt to tamper with the electoral process.
According to the statement, the ruling APC’s alleged resort to show of force “signals desperation and fear of defeat.”
The PDP assured its members and supporters that it would continue to provide updates on the situation, while restating its commitment to stand firm in defence of democratic rights and freedoms in the state.
The House of Representatives on Friday denied reports that members of the House collect money to either sponsor motions, bills or petitions or support the passage of such on the floor of the House.
Spokesman of the House, Akintunde Rotimi said in a statement that the allegations by a member of the House were baseless and cannot be substantiated.
Rotimi said the allegations can undermine public confidence in the House in particular and the National Assembly in general.
The statement reads: “The House of Representatives has taken note of a viral video in which Rep. Ibrahim Usman Auyo, Member representing Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, alleged that Members of the House receive payments to sponsor Motions, Bills, and Petitions.
“These allegations are unsubstantiated and, if left unclarified, risk undermining public confidence in the National Assembly. Statements of this nature must be backed by verifiable facts and presented through the appropriate parliamentary channels.
“As the 10th Assembly recently crossed its midterm mark, stakeholders nationwide are rightly demanding accountability from their elected representatives, a legitimate and essential expectation in any thriving democracy.
“The House remains focused on delivering its mandate under the Legislative Agenda (2023–2027), which emphasizes transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the people.
“The leadership of the House has consistently encouraged Members to engage with their constituencies during recesses and report on their stewardship. This commitment is reflected in frequent town halls and public hearings, including a series of midterm engagements held in June and July, presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON.
“In just two years, the People’s House has introduced 2,263 Bills, passed 237, and moved over 1,100 Motions, generating significant interventions across critical sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, security, and economic development. These efforts have triggered substantive executive action and positively impacted the lives of constituents nationwide.
“The National Assembly is an institution of records, with well-established and transparent procedures for introducing Bills, Motions, and Petitions, governed by the Constitution, House Standing Orders, and parliamentary ethics. The insinuation that sponsoring a Motion or Bill is a “contract job” involving bribes is inconsistent with these processes and must be clarified.
“When the House reconvenes, Rep. Auyo will be invited to substantiate his claims before the House. Should he be unable to provide evidence, the matter will be referred to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for appropriate consideration, in line with parliamentary procedure.
“The House remains committed to fostering mutual respect among Members while upholding the dignity of Parliament. All Honourable Members are encouraged to engage constructively, address concerns through due process, and work together in the collective interest of the Nigerian people”.
A staggering 98% of voters in Ganye State Constituency are backing the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Hon. Misa Musa Jauro, for Saturday’s bye-election, according to an opinion poll of 500 residents conducted on Friday.
The poll results follow a massive campaign rally led by Hon. (Dr.) Abubakar Kabir Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations and head of the APC National Campaign Council for the Ganye bye-election, which drew thousands of supporters to Ganye town, signalling a likely landslide victory for the APC.
The bye-election, set for Saturday, aims to fill the vacancy left by the death of Hon. Abdulmalik Jauro in May 2024.
The survey conducted across major villages including Sugu, Gurum and Jaggu gave Hon. Misa Musa Jauro 98% support (490 respondents), while the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Barrister Buba Mohammed Joda, secured 1% (5 respondents), with other parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), also at 1% (5 respondents).
At the rally, which caused unprecedented traffic in Ganye town, Bichi electrified the crowd, vowing a decisive APC victory.
“Before 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, we will emerge victorious. We will defend every vote and ensure they are counted,” he declared, addressing concerns about electoral integrity.
Local residents hailed Bichi’s speech and his national-level achievements, expressing unwavering trust in his call to vote for the APC candidate.
Malam Aminu Sugu, a trader from Sugu village, said, “Bichi’s words were powerful. His work in the National Assembly has brought pride to the north. When he says vote APC, we listen without hesitation. The PDP, ruling Adamawa, has done nothing for Ganye.”
In Gurum, Mrs. Halima Gurum, a seamstress, added, “Bichi’s performance in Abuja shows he delivers. His rally inspired us, and we’ll vote APC because he asked us to. The PDP has neglected us for years.”
Mr. Musa Jaggu, meanwhile, a youth leader in Jaggu, echoed, “Bichi’s record as Appropriations Chairman speaks for itself. His speech fired us up, and we trust his judgment. The APC candidate will win. The PDP has failed Ganye completely.”
Even in other parts, support was overwhelming. “The APC is serious about development. Hon. Misa Musa Jauro will represent us well,” said Malama Hauwa Sangasumi, a teacher.
Malam Adamu Bakari, a carpenter, echoed, “Bichi promised the roads will be done, and we believe him. The PDP can’t match APC’s energy. The APC’s promise to fix our roads will change our lives. We trust Bichi’s words because he’s a man of action.”
However, a lone PDP supporter, Malam Musa Joda from Jaggu, admitted, “Barrister Buba Mohammed Joda has already lost, the APC’s campaign is too strong. We want a fair election.”
A socio-political group in the North-Central region operating under the aegis of The North-Central Agenda (TNA) has berated opposition leaders complaining of marginalisation of the north under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that the accusation was baseless and unfounded, as realities on the ground contradict allegation.
The group also challenged political leaders in the North-Central, especially the state governors, to judiciously make us of the increase in the revenue allocation to their states for the benefit of the poor and vulnerable in the zone.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja to herald the birth of the group, the chairperson of the group, Dr. Ene Ogbole said the organisation will ensure that some of the challenges facing the region, which include; unemployment, poor education, insecurity, drug addiction, kidnapping, and political thuggery, among others would receive attention in the efforts to promote and defend the interest of the zone, and the country in general.
Reacting to the allegation of marginalisation of the region, the group accused proponents of such allegation of being mischievous, partisan, and selfish.
According to the group: “You can not come from a region that has benefited the highest national budgetary allocation of 2024 and still say you have been marginalized.
“You can not come from a region that clearly has benefited in terms of equal representation in governance and say or claim to have been marginalized. You can not come from a region that benefits from almost 90 percent of national security expenditure and still claims to have been marginalized.
“Those who talk about marginalization or accuse Tinubu’s administration of marginalization are only doing that simply for selfish and mischievous political purposes. They are yet up to this day to bring out figures and facts of Bola Tinubu’s administration marginalisation.”
The TNA chairperson said the initiative became necessary in view of the fact that the people of the North Central zone, have in recent history, been subjected to unimaginable level of endless human agony and disaster, ranging from socio-economic, political, and worst of all, security crisis that have almost brought the region to her knees.
“It is heart-warming and reassuring to know that, while the prevailing challenges are resolute in ensuring that our region is reduced to the worst level of hardship and insecurity ever experienced in our political history, however, we are consoled by the surge in current national revenue, has presented leverages opportunities to all tiers of government to respond swiftly and adequately to the socio-economic, political and security needs of the North Central people and other regions of the country.
“Our intervention focuses on massive social advocacy to encourage all stakeholders, both within and outside government, from top to bottom on the use of available resources for the development of the zone.
“It is worthy of note to mention unequivocally that our group is working overtime to recreate and promote government /citizen partnerships through gradually restoring their hope and confidence in government policies, programs and reforms that are targeted at uplifting the well-being and living standard of the people also bearing in mind that the buy-in, participation and partnership of the electorate is sacrosanct if a government must succeed.
“We have been in the business of conscientizing our youths and women of existing government initiatives, policies and programmes that are targeted at uplifting the well-being and living standard of our people and by so doing bridging the gap between the government and her citizens.
“Furthermore, we are creating massive and unrelenting awareness on the concept of separation of powers and the constitutional mandate of the three tiers of government, the federal, state, and local government and the obligations of our citizens.
“Similarly, we wish to once again deploy this avenue to appeal to our political gladiators across party lines to immediately desist from heating up the polity in national interest, peace, decorum, and tranquillity to pave way for broad based national development. We advise that all hands should be on deck regardless of party affiliation as we struggle to surmount this phase of global economic meltdown that has grossly devastated all economies around the world. It is our duty to let politicians know that patriotism is not about seek for power at all cost, it is about supporting those in government whether we like them or not to achieve the ultimate goal of delivering the dividends of democracy the people especially the poor and the vulnerable.”
Throwing its weight behind the president over the recent emergence of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the group, urged opposition leaders to eschew bitterness and support President Tinubu’s administration for the betterment of the country.
“We deeply appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) for appointing Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as the National Chairman of the Ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). It is considered a step in the right direction as we are certain that the young professor will bring to bear contemporary ideas that will move the party forward in the right direction to be able to deliver the dividend of democracy to our people.”
The Tinubu Media Force, led by National Coordinator Oluwagbenga Abiola, has described recent remarks by World Trade Organization Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on Nigeria’s economic trajectory as an independent endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s progressive governance.
Speaking at an international forum, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala commended the President’s economic policies for steering the country toward “irreplaceable positivity” and “revolving progression.”
According to the Tinubu Media Force, this recognition affirms that the administration’s reforms are building a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
In a statement signed by Abiola on Friday, the group cited recent economic indicators, noting that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.13% in the first quarter of 2025, driven largely by a 5% surge in the services sector.
The Tinubu administration aims for 7% annual growth by 2027 and a quadrupling of the economy by 2030, based on a rebased GDP of ₦372.8 trillion.
Reforms span energy, transport, education, agriculture, and industry, with education highlighted as a flagship priority.
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has disbursed over ₦104 billion to more than 600,000 students in federal tertiary institutions, including ₦20.07 billion in tuition payments and ₦12.82 billion in stipends. Over 9,000 applications are processed daily, providing critical support to Nigerian families.
On infrastructure, the administration is pushing landmark projects such as the $11 billion, 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, designed to link nine states and create millions of jobs. The first 47.47km segment is already under construction with $747 million funding.
Other key projects include the 1,000km Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, dualisation of the Kano–Maiduguri Road, rehabilitation of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, completion of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, and reconstruction of over 330 roads and bridges nationwide.
Beyond roads, the government has launched construction of 10,000 affordable housing units, expanded the national health insurance scheme to include children, improved passport processing, stabilised electricity supply across board, and commissioned new federal medical centres to for affordable access to health care for the average Nigerian Man. Agricultural reforms and the introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an affordable transport fuel are also expected to reduce food and transportation costs.
The Tinubu Media Force also highlighted the proposed tax reform bill, which aims to ease burdens on low and middle income earners by eliminating regressive levies, simplifying tax collection, and focusing more on high income sectors and large corporations.
Commending Dr. Okonjo-Iweala for her “objective and fact-based” analysis, the group urged commentators to evaluate the administration’s performance on measurable achievements rather than partisan narratives.
As Nigeria’s largest grassroots media network, the Tinubu Media Force reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring every ministry and parastatal, publicising the benefits of their policies, and ensuring citizens understand and feel the impact of government initiatives.
All eyes are on the Anambra South Senatorial District ahead of tomorrow’s by-election. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP), and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are set for a fierce contest. Southeast Bureau Chief NWANOSIKE ONU reports
The political atmosphere in Anambra South is charged with anticipation as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares to conduct the much-awaited bye-election for the Anambra South Senatorial District seat on Saturday. The election, triggered by the passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah on February 27, 2024, in London after a brief illness, has drawn national attention for its implications on the November 8, 2025 governorship race.
Ten political parties have formally entered the race to fill the vacant senatorial position, but political analysts and stakeholders agree that the battle lines are most clearly drawn between two dominant parties – the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). In what has been described as a “political stress test” ahead of the governorship election, this bye-election will serve as a critical measure of grassroots influence, party machinery, and political alignment in the state.
The contenders
Although the ballot lists 10 candidates, four individuals have emerged as the major contenders expected to significantly influence the outcome of the race:
Emmanuel Nwachukwu (APGA)
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s administration has thrown its full weight behind Chief Emmanuel Nwachukwu, a loyal party stalwart from Ukpor, Nnewi South Local Government Area. Formerly a banker and now a contractor with APGA-led projects, Nwachukwu’s selection surprised many within the party ranks.
Initially, the ticket was contested by prominent business figures such as Chief Ebuka Onunkwo of the Seahorse Group and rice merchant Chief Akai Egwuonwu, but Governor Soludo’s preference for a loyalist carried the day.
Nwachukwu’s greatest challenge lies in mobilizing votes from Ukpor and surrounding communities, which are considered volatile due to the presence of armed separatist groups. These security concerns have raised questions about voter turnout and INEC’s ability to safely conduct the election in certain parts of Anambra South.
Sir Azuka Okwuosa of the APC is widely regarded as a strong grassroots politician with deep roots in Anambra South. He previously served as Local Government Chairman of Nnewi South and later as Commissioner for Works in the state. Known for his close ties to his influential brother, oil magnate Emeka Okwuosa, Sir Azuka enjoys popularity across political divides.
However, the APC faces an uphill battle in Anambra, where it has historically struggled to win the trust of a majority of voters. While the party boasts a roster of political heavyweights, many political observers caution that “names don’t win elections”, and Okwuosa will need to convert personal popularity into actual votes.
Chuma Nzeribe (LP)
Chief Chuma Nzeribe brings a long political résumé, having served as a Member of the House of Representatives for Ihiala Federal Constituency under the PDP and later as a security adviser during former Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju’s administration. Known for his assertive political style, Nzeribe is banking on the Labour Party platform, which enjoyed unprecedented momentum in the 2023 general elections due to the presidential run of Mr. Peter Obi.
However, analysts note that the fervour of the “Obidient” movement has diminished in Anambra, and 2025 may not replicate the enthusiasm seen two years earlier. Nzeribe’s challenge will be to translate what remains of Labour’s popularity into a competitive senatorial bid.
Chris Uba (PDP)
Once the undisputed kingmaker of Anambra politics, Chief Chris Uba has seen his influence wane in recent years. While his past ability to shape elections was legendary, Uba now faces a fragmented PDP and a political base that has eroded over time. The lingering memory of past controversies – including the abduction saga involving a sitting governor – continues to affect his public perception.
The PDP’s decline in Anambra South has been compounded by the defection of many of its strong members to other parties, particularly the APC. Analysts describe Uba’s path to victory as “akin to a camel passing through the eye of a needle.”
Other candidates
The ballot will also feature Nnamdi Ezike of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP); Donald Chidi Amamgbo, the African Democratic Congress (ADC); Prince Offorbuike Okoli-Egbo, the Young Progressives Party (YPP); Onyemelukwe Eusebius Zonyelu, the Action Peoples Party (APP); Peter Ekwueme, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP); and Emma Chikaelo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
While these candidates are expected to campaign actively, political observers believe they are unlikely to disrupt the dominance of the APGA, the APC, the LP, and the PDP in this particular race.
More than a Senate seat
The by-election is widely seen as more than just a contest to replace the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. It is being framed as a proxy battle for control of Anambra’s political landscape ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
Governor Soludo has described the election as “consequential,” urging APGA members to mobilize a massive turnout. Speaking at a campaign rally in Umunze, Orumba North, he stressed the importance of party unity and the role of the senatorial seat in maintaining APGA’s political dominance. The governor cited his administration’s infrastructure achievements across the state as evidence of APGA’s performance and capacity to deliver.
On the other side, the APC’s governorship candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, has declared that the bye-election will serve as a litmus test of who truly controls the political structure of Anambra. Addressing market leaders in Awka, Ukachukwu stated, “We will govern Anambra State and nothing will stop us. We will start with Saturday’s Anambra South Senate election and after that, we will know who is in charge.”
Security concerns
A significant factor that could influence the outcome is the security situation in parts of the senatorial district. Communities in Ukpor and surrounding areas remain under the shadow of armed separatist activity. These zones have been described as “no-go areas” for political campaigns, and questions remain about whether INEC can safely and effectively conduct voting there.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has indicated that it is working with security agencies to ensure that voting takes place across all wards, but residents and political stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic.
Ifeanyi Ubah’s legacy
Even in death, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s political influence continues to loom over the contest. Widely regarded as a “street general,” Ubah transformed the APC’s profile in Anambra South, making the party a viable contender in an area where it previously struggled. His unexpected death not only left a leadership vacuum but also energized political rivals seeking to claim his mantle.
Observers note that while APC retains the structural advantages built under Ubah’s tenure, replicating his connection to the grassroots will be a formidable challenge.
Voter Sentiment
Public opinion in Anambra South appears divided along party loyalty, candidate popularity, and regional considerations. The APGA’s control of the state government gives it a significant logistical advantage, while the APC hopes to leverage the Okwuosa name and its concentration of political heavyweights.
The LP’s Chuma Nzeribe may appeal to pockets of youthful and reform-minded voters, though sustaining momentum without the 2023 wave will be critical. For the PDP, the challenge is monumental; internal divisions and the diminished stature of Chris Uba make a strong showing difficult, though not impossible.
Conclusion
As Saturday’s election approaches, the Anambra South senatorial bye-election is shaping up to be a defining political event for the state. The result will not only determine who represents the district in the National Assembly but also set the tone for the November governorship race.
With four main contenders, a politically aware electorate, and heightened stakes, the election promises to be fiercely contested. The interplay of loyalty, legacy, and logistics will ultimately decide who emerges victorious.
INEC has reaffirmed its readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible polls, while security agencies have pledged to safeguard the process. Political leaders from all sides have been urged to conduct their campaigns responsibly and to respect the will of the people.
The eyes of Anambra – and indeed, Nigeria – will be on the South Senatorial Zone this Saturday.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State has disowned reports linking it to a coalition with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of Saturday’s bye-election in Kajuru/Chikun Federal Constituency.
In a statement,.Kaduna SDP Chairman, Hon. Adamu Idris, dismissed the claim as false and the handiwork of political impostors bent on misleading the public.
Idris accused one Hon. Nasiru Maikano — “who is neither a member nor official of the SDP” — of issuing a statement suggesting an alliance between both parties.
“To be clear, Hon. Nasiru Maikano does not represent or serve as the chairman of SDP in Kaduna State. The SDP is not in any coalition with any political party in Kaduna State,” he said.
The chairman warned that such falsehoods could damage the party’s electoral prospects and vowed to report the matter to the relevant authorities, describing it as a breach of the party’s constitution.
He reaffirmed that the SDP’s candidate for the Kajuru/Chikun seat remains Comrade Johnathan Maikaratu Wushiri, and urged voters in Zaria Kewaye and Basawa State Assembly constituencies to ignore the “false claims of impostors.”
Idris also advised party members and supporters to remain calm, law-abiding, and adhere strictly to all Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines before, during, and after the polls.
