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Category: Politics

  • By-elections: Obaseki never interested in Edo development, says Okpebholo

    By-elections: Obaseki never interested in Edo development, says Okpebholo

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has told the people of Edo Central senatorial district that his predecessor, former Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party were never interested in developing the State.

    Okpebholo said the administration of Obaseki was transactional.

    The Edo Governor spoke in Ekpoma during the party’s final campaign rally.

    Okpebholo assured the people that his administration would deliver more developmental project.

    He said: “You see, because of what we are doing in Edo State, the people are asking, where were these funds? Let me tell you, Obaseki and the PDP were never interested in developing our state. They were not interested in our people. They were purely transactional people.”

    Read Also: By-election: INEC distributes sensitive materials in Edo

    In Ovia federal constituency, the Deputy Governor expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious.

    “All that is needed is for us to fully mobilise and encourage our supporters to come out enmass to exercise their civic responsibilities on Saturday.

    “It is very obvious that from our engagement with the people these past days and across various communities in the federal constituency, we are sure of not less than 90 percent of total votes cast.

    “Infact, is not for the misdeed of the immediate past administration, Edo is home to the APC, it has always been right from the AC to ACN, and before the APC”, Idahosa stated

    Five political parties, the All Progressives Congress, the African Democratic Congress, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Action Alliance, and the Peoples Democratic Party signed the peace agreement ahead of Saturday’s By-election.

    The political parties signed at a ceremony in Benin City and witnessed by security agencies.

    Edo Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Anugbum Onuaha, who also signed the peace pact, said all electoral materials have been dispatched.

    Chairman of the Peace Committee, Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase Of Benin, who was represented by Chief Jackson Igbinovia, urged all stakeholders and voters to conduct themselves peacefully at the polls.

  • Terrorism: We don’t seek foreign bench legitimacy, APC fires Canadian court

    Terrorism: We don’t seek foreign bench legitimacy, APC fires Canadian court

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed the ruling of a Federal Court of Canada that classified the party with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) as terrorist organisations.

    Justice Phuong Ngo was reported to have ruled on June 17, 2025, that the two major parties in Nigeria are terror organisations while denying asylum to one Douglas Egharevba over his decade-long affiliation with both political parties.

    The judge dismissed Egharevba’s application for judicial review after the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD), found him inadmissible under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, IRPA.

    The Canadian Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness was said to have argued that the APC and PDP were implicated in political violence, subversion of democracy and electoral bloodshed in Nigeria

    The court records also showed that Egharevba was a PDP member from 1999 to 2007 before joining the APC where he remained until 2017. He moved to Canada in September 2017 and disclosed his political history.

    Read Also: Allegations over displacing the poor to please the rich in Abuja false – FCTA

    Reacting to the judgement in Abuja on Thursday, APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru said the APC is a credible democratic political organization and does not seek legitimacy from a foreign bench and under a law that has no extra territorial application.

    Dismissing the judgement, Bashiru noted thar the presiding judge must be an ignoramus. He argued that APC was not party to the suit, maintaining that “the court has no jurisdiction to determine the status of a Nigerian recognized political party not to talk of declaring it as a terrorist organization.

    “The so-called judgment was obviously delivered from a jaundiced perspective and within the narrow confines of determining eligibility for asylum by an applicant.

    “The APC is a credible democratic political organization and does not seek legitimacy from a foreign bench and under a law that has no extra territorial application”

    Bashiru, however, noted that “it is unfortunate that some desperate and unpatriotic Nigerians will allow the name of the country to be brought to unpalatable commentary by racist judges on account of self contrived application for asylum.”

    Reports said that the Canadian immigration authorities flagged Egharevba’s affiliations, citing intelligence reports linking both parties to electoral violence and politically motivated killings.

    The IAD was also quoted to have based its decision largely on the PDP’s conduct during the 2003 state elections and 2004 local government polls, when the party allegedly engaged in ballot stuffing, voter intimidation and killing of opposition supporters.

    The tribunal found that the party leadership benefited from the violence and took no action to stop it, meeting Canada’s legal definition of subversion under paragraph 34(1)(b.1) of the IRPA.

    Justice Ngo affirmed that mere membership in an organisation linked to terrorism or democratic subversion is enough to trigger inadmissibility under paragraph 34(1)(f) of the IRPA, even without proof of personal involvement.

  • 2027: Which way for Obi amid fractured opposition camps?

    2027: Which way for Obi amid fractured opposition camps?

    Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has unfolded his ambition to re-contest for President in 2027. However, he did not disclose the platform. There is uncertainty about the way forward. Assistant Editor EMMANUEL BADEJO reports.

    NIGERIA’s political landscape has witnessed several events in the last few weeks. The events are not unusual in a democratic state. Early last month, a coalition adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC). While the Social Democratic Party (SDP) suspended its national chairman, Shehu Gabam, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party, elected a new national chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. It is also on record that at least 110 associations have shown interest to be registered as political parties. These are part of the game plans that usually trail any major election. Therefore, these developments are not new as 2027 general election approaches. 

    Of all the events, the one that has gained more traction is the ADC coalition. The coalition, officially unveiled in July, encompasses prominent figures including former vice president and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar; 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, immediate past Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former governor, Rivers State and immediate past Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, and others. They have coalesced to offer an alternative to APC’s Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. 

    While most of the leading figures are reportedly working towards getting either the presidential or vice presidential ticket of the ADC and have resigned membership of their former political families, the fate of the ‘light’ of the Labour Party (LP), Obi, hangs in the balance as he still maintains his membership with LP.  And as permutations, calculations and realignments are still evolving in the ADC vehicle, Obi on June 29 on X space didn’t mince any words when he assured his supporters that he would be on the ballot to contest the 2027 presidential election. He equally spoke of the possibility of serving just one term of four years. 

    The former Anambra governor also clarified what was then speculated about his being part of a coalition where he would be the running mate to some politicians, denying that he entered into any such agreement. He said: “I have not joined in any form of discussion on joint tickets including with (former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar). If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office by 28th May, 2031.”

    With Obi’s declaration, pundits are wondering what the future holds for him as his party is split into two or three factions. The ADC is already looking unattractive and a no-go area following wrangling within the group over allegation that Atiku has hired the party and its machineries to contest the 2027 election. Similarly, there are rumours making the rounds that Obi is considering returning to the PDP.  But, if he does, will he get its presidential ticket, when a faction of the party is already wooing former President Goodluck Jonathan to return and take the PDP’s ticket? Pundits ask: where does Obi stand and what are his chances of clinching the ticket of any major opposition party?

    Factions in LP weaken party’s influence

    That Obi is still a member of LP is not in doubt. But his party is caught in a battle of supremacy between Julius Abure-led and Esther Nemadi factions. The latter is backed by the only governor the party produced, Alex Otti, Obi and their loyalists.

    Things are falling apart for the Labour Party. From relative obscurity, the LP emerged as a third force in Nigerian politics almost overnight, following the entrance of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi into the party ahead of the election. The youth embraced the LP.

    But, the LP is currently facing a serious challenge. Internal squabble surfaced within the party, after the general election, following allegations of corruption against its National Chairman, Julius Abure. One allegation surfaced after another; putting the national chairman under pressure to defend his integrity and that of the party. This development, it is said, has dealt a heavy blow to the image of the party that had embodied the hope of many youths.

    Speaking on the crisis rocking the LP, Obi said steps were being taken to get the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to endorse the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC) of the LP, based on the April 4 Supreme Court judgment. The X Space interaction would suggest that Obi still has in mind to run the 2027 polls on the ticket of the LP, especially by disclosing the fact that his faction of the party led by a former Minister, Senator Nenadi Usman, was approaching INEC to sort out any lingering issues.

    Sharing his thoughts on the imbroglio, the Chairman of the Partners for Electoral Reform, a non-governmental organisation, Ezenwa Nwagwu echoed this viewpoint.

    He said the infighting and internal divisions within opposition parties “have weakened their unity and effectiveness, making it harder to present a cohesive alternative to the ruling party”. He added: “But now, cases of corruption and a clear violation of laws by opposition figures are providing ethical challenges that make it harder for them to challenge the government.

    Read Also: Obi claimed credits for my projects as governor, says Ngige

    “Some people might find some of my positions very uncomfortable. But to transform our country, we must embrace some hard truth and continue to educate Nigerians on how to hold our politicians to account, whether in government or out of government.

    “Is the economy in a bad state? Yes. Is there a heightened security challenge? Yes. But in the wake of the internal crisis and corruption allegations rocking the leadership of the opposition party, especially the Labour Party, one wonders how such opposition can hold the government in power to account.”

    Besides squabble over party leadership, Obi’s open alignment with the coalition has also increased tension within the party. Answering questions on the same x space, Obi acknowledged “being involved in coalition talks because of his desire to rescue Nigeria from the drift by aligning with all patriotic Nigerians.”  He said of the coalition: “If the coalition is not about stopping the killings in Benue, Zamfara, how to revive our economy, how to make our industries productive, how to put food on the tables of Nigerians…. Count me out. Nigeria is currently at war. We need to do something about it.” He urged Nigerians to see the need to rescue the country with him, stating, “I will bring stability to Nigeria within two years in office. Leaders of Nigeria should sit down in Nigeria and fix Nigeria.”

    But a faction loyal to Abure had since reacted calling on the former Anambra governor to relinquish his membership status with the LP.  The Labour Party while reiterating its disinterestedness in joining the coalition said that the members of the coalition are power mongers whose only interest was self and not the people.

    The party warned Nigerians that the often mouthed ‘new Nigeria is Possible’ is a ruse and cannot be achieved with the assemblage of old, recycled, desperate and frustrated politicians in the coalition.

    In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, the party says that all those who mismanaged Nigeria over the years are the ones that gathered themselves in the coalition while noting that desperate politicians can’t birth new Nigeria.

    “We are aware of several nocturnal meetings between Peter Obi and some of our members, lobbying them to join him in his new party. We’re also aware that a number of them have refused to defect with him.

    “Labour Party has consistently said it is not part of the coalition and therefore, any of our members who are part of the coalition is given within 48 hours to formally resign his membership of the party.

    “Labour Party is not available for people with dual agenda, people with deceptive persona. The party will not avail itself to individuals who have one leg in one Party and another leg elsewhere. These people will claim to be in the Labour Party in the morning, and in the evening, they are in coalition.

    “These people are opportunistic politicians who are only interested in relaunching themselves into a circle of power, people who are desperate to continue holding on to power.

    The new Nigeria of our dreams can only be realized through the Labour Party and the party is willing to lead Nigerians along that trajectory.”

    Obi’s dual loyalty under fire

    While ADC courts Obi warmly, and the PDP succinctly wishes to have him, a faction within Obi’s own LP’s warns against divided loyalty. Umar Farouk Ibrahim, representing the Abure-led LP faction, declared that Obi risks being disqualified from securing the LP’s 2027 presidential ticket if he continues his engagement with the ADC coalition.

    Ibrahim stressed that the LP would not entertain “half-in, half-out” affiliations, and highlighted Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed as an equally credible contender should Obi be deemed ineligible.

    Speaking during an national television, Ibrahim said no individual has an automatic claim to the party’s presidential ticket, and warned that Obi must fully align with LP to remain eligible.

    “Datti is qualified to contest for the presidency as much as Peter Obi,” he said, referring to Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, Obi’s 2023 running mate.

    “But if those people don’t come back to us, they lose that opportunity. There’s no way you’ll continue to romance with other political parties and then still come back with one leg in the Labour Party, no, ab initio, you may be disqualified.”

    Another faction, aligned with acting chair Usman Nenadi, appears more accommodating of Obi’s dual positioning. However, Obi’s coalition involvement and LP’s internal crisis, marked by leadership contests between factions, casts shadow over his path to LP’s ticket.

    The seeming contradiction, ADC’s urgent pursuit of Obi and LP’s factional resistance, highlights a broader political tension: can the opposition effectively challenge APC if its leading asset faces internal resistance?

    ADC: Atiku, Obi camps rivalry escalate

    Atiku’s presidential ambition is reportedly shaping the internal structure of the ADC while Obi, is said to be struggling for influence. Insiders within the ADC, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, alleged that Atiku financed efforts to take control of the party as a platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

     A party source disclosed that most of the ADC’s state chapters, zonal bodies, and even its national leadership were now largely aligned with Atiku.

    However, ADC interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, refuted claims that Atiku had taken over the coalition. He insisted that the group remained united in its objective to dislodge Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress in the next election.

    On July 3, ADC’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, accused the David Mark-led interim ADC leadership of plotting Atiku candidacy.

    Recently, on August 4, a leaked memo from the Obidient Movement to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, raised concerns about the alleged sidelining of its members fromADC’s major decision-making processes.

    In a document dated July 29, 2025, and signed by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Tanko Yunusa, Obi’s group accused the coalition of marginalising its members despite their pivotal role in strengthening the political bloc.

    The memo reads, “We write on behalf of the Obidient Movement to express our severe grievances regarding recent developments within the coalition’s systems.

    “Our people are deliberately excluded at all levels. While we remain committed to the shared vision of building a united and formidable front for the task ahead, we must raise the following issues that our members have repeatedly flagged.”

    Listing their grievances, Tanko cited lack of inclusion in major deliberations. “Several of our designated representatives and members are reportedly being excluded from crucial meetings where major decisions affecting the coalition are made. This creates an impression of marginalisation and undermines trust, which is essential for building a sustainable partnership,” he lamented. This indicates that Obi’s camp is being emasculated, portending a no-go area for Obi. Permutations are that Obi might pull out of the coalition arrangement.

    PDP card on the table

    The leading opposition party has in recent time been making overtures to Obi to return to its fold. The PDP Governors’ Forum chairman and Bauchi State governor, Bala Muhammed has publicly pleaded with Obi to return to its fold.

    Also, a two-time member of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, Abduljabbar Rufai, has revealed that the party is in active talks with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to bring him back ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Rufai while speaking with journalists in Abuja recently, explained that the move is part of the PDP’s wider strategy to unite its members and strengthen its position against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    He described Obi’s possible return as a ‘strategic’ step that could improve the PDP’s chances, especially in the Southeast and South-South regions where Obi enjoys strong support.

    “Leaders of the PDP recently visited Peter Obi, and we believe his return to the PDP, a party he once called home, would be highly strategic and impactful.

    “Looking at the 2023 polls, it’s clear that Peter Obi garnered the majority of his votes from the Southeast, which has traditionally been a stronghold of the PDP. If we can bring him back, it would be a game-changer for the party and a boost to our electoral prospects,” he said.

    PDP woos Jonathan

    Obi may meet dead end if he returns to the PDP as another faction within the leading opposition party is routing for former president Goodluck Jonathan, who is being promised an automatic ticket if he returns to the party.

    Daniel Woyengikuro, the PDP’s National Financial Secretary, made this disclosure during an interview with a national newspaper in Abuja. Woyengikuro emphasized Jonathan’s continued influence within the party and the nation’s politics, describing him as the PDP’s national leader.

    “Is he not the best candidate for us at this moment? He is not just a former president; he is the leader of the party now. Aside from [former President Olusegun] Obasanjo, the next person in line is him. Goodluck Jonathan is the national leader of this party,” Woyengikuro said.

    He confirmed that the PDP has been consulting with Jonathan and his associates, aiming to bring him back into the party’s mainstream leadership as part of a larger strategy to reposition the party and address Nigeria’s growing political and economic challenges.

  • 2027: Aiyedatiwa convenes advisory council meeting

    2027: Aiyedatiwa convenes advisory council meeting

    • Akinyelure, Kekemeke lead GAC, preach unity among party members
    • APC elders applaud Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style, reinstate support for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has convened the inaugural session of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in a bid to strengthen unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The council is chaired by former NNPC Limited Board Chairman and ex-APC National Vice Chairman, Pius Akinyelure, with the party’s National Vice Chairman (South West) and former Secretary to the State Government, Isaac Kekemeke, serving as Secretary.

    The inaugural meeting, held behind closed doors at the weekend, follows a recent caucus session convened by Aiyedatiwa at the Government House Banquet Hall in Alagbaka Akure.

    Party sources told The Nation on Sunday that the GAC’s mandate is to advise the governor on governance and strategies for the party’s growth ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Speaking after the meeting, Akinyelure said the forum was designed to bridge the gap between the ruling party and government.

    He lauded the governor for the initiative, saying the leaders are happy and have unanimously agreed to work together in ensuring the existing peace and unity in the party in the state are sustained.

    Read Also: No room for Obi, Atiku, Amaechi’s coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    “What we have basically discussed is the growth of the party and the success of the government, which is headed by Mr. Governor [Aiyedatiwa]. Ours is to bridge the gap, to make sure that the party grows and the government is successful.

    “Whatever is going on in government is exposed to the party, so that there can be a smooth relationship. I am not only satisfied, I am encouraged by the participation of our members”, Akinyelure said.

    Other APC leaders who attended the meeting also echoed similar sentiments. 

    Former APC National Vice Chairman (South West), Bankole Oluwajana, hailed Aiyedatiwa’s “receptive attitude” and commitment to accommodating diverse views.

    Oluwajana specifically mentioned that the ‘closed-door meeting’ encouraged frank discussions between the party leaders and Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    “One very commendable thing is the governor’s receptive attitude accommodating everyone, regardless of past views before he became governor.

    “There’s no room for disunity. The governor is for all of us. He is the leader of the party in the state, and we acknowledge that leadership,” he said.

    Former Senator for Ondo North, Prof. Ajayi Boroffice stressed the council’s role as an advisory and not dictatorial body, praising the governor for his fiscal discipline.

    “The main purpose of this meeting is to revitalise this Government Advisory Council. As a council, we are to advise Mr. Governor on issues concerning his policies and the unity of the party, and that is exactly what we have done. Those who have some issues raised them, and the Governor responded.

    “He has paid all salaries; he is not owing, has not borrowed, and has even paid part of the debts owed by the government over the years. These are commendable within this short time of his administration. The Advisory Council is to advise, not to dictate.

    “The Governor is the Chief Executive of the state and is to pick the best hands to help him achieve his goals. We can advise, but he has more information to take decisions that favour the government and the people.”

    Jamiu Ekungba and Awodeyi Apata commended the governor for convening the GAC meeting, stressing that it would strengthen the party in the state ahead of the next general elections.

    Hon. Kekemeke, the GAC Secretary, emphasised that the meeting resolved contentious issues and reaffirmed governor Aiyedatiwa’s position as the party’s leader in the state.

    He also cautioned that support groups must not act as alternatives to the party.

    “We restated the obvious fact that the governor is the leader of the party in the state. We also agreed that support groups, particularly presidential support groups, can continue to exist but cannot serve as alternatives to the party or be used to divide it. Support groups are meant to support the party and the presidential aspiration of our national leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “We were satisfied with the governor’s performance and advised him on wider consultations with stakeholders. We concluded that our party is one, with no factions and advised on collegiate leadership at the local government level for more inclusive decision-making,” Kekemeke said.

    Other leaders at the meeting included former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, General Funso Oyenehin (rtd), Ambassador Sola Iji, Chief Bode Sunmonu, Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Dr. Ayodeji Oyedele and Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti.

  • ‘How PDP can bounce back’

    ‘How PDP can bounce back’

    Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, has called on PDP members and Nigerians, to come together, unite and rescue Nigeria from what he described as, the maladministration of the current APC-led federal government.

    The governor made the statement, when he received the PDP Founding Mothers and women at the Government House, Bauchi State, Northeast Nigeria.

    “It is a fact that women contribute significantly to the Nigerian electoral process, but their contributions are often not well recognised, particularly in the areas of political appointment and elective positions.

    “This is one of the reasons the Peoples Democratic Party Founding Mothers and women, led by former Minister of Women Affairs, Maryam Inna Chiroma, visited Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, to discuss and formally submit their request, for the actualisation of 35% affirmative action for women, as stated in the party’s constitution,” he said.

    Read Also: ‘PDP has nothing to offer in Ibadan North’

     Mohammed stated that the PDP Governors’ Forum is committed to ensuring the proper implementation of 35% affirmative action, for women’s inclusion, in politics and governance.

    He emphasised that women are trusted, reliable, and dependable partners in politics; hence, their contributions would not be forgotten.

    The governor called on party leaders, including those who left the party, to come together, close ranks, and work towards bringing the PDP back to power in 2027, to deliver good governance to the people.

    While assuring the delegation of his continued commitment, to ensuring the success of the PDP, and urged for collective support, the governor alleged that the federal government is not working because the people are complaining, saying that Nigeria now has three budgets on ground in the National Assembly: the 2024 and 2025 budgets, and 2026 is around the corner.

  • Kwara 2027: Nupe Community backs Tinubu, Mustapha

    Kwara 2027: Nupe Community backs Tinubu, Mustapha

    The Nupe community in Ilorin Emirate has declared support for the second term ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governorship aspiration of Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central District.

    The endorsement came under the platform of the Nupe Progressives of Ilorin Emirate, after what the group described as “extensive consultations” and in recognition of the two leaders’ track record of performance and engagement with their community.

    The event, held in Ilorin, the state capitall, attracted traditional title holders, Islamic clerics, youth leaders, women mobilisers, and other prominent figures from the Nupe community across the five local governments.

    Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq and Senator Mustapha are from Kwara Central. The group avoided the subject matter of zoning.

    Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, the convener and Maiyaki ’N’ Nupe of Ilorin Emirate said the community had never enjoyed such recognition and inclusion in governance as they have under Senator Mustapha, while also commending President Tinubu’s efforts in stabilising the nation.

    Read Also: Tinubu swears in Dakas as NLRC chair, Okolocha as commissioner

    “In our more than 100 years within the Ilorin Emirate, no political leader has carried the Nupe people along like Senator Mustapha,” he stated. “At the national level, we believe President Tinubu has the courage and capacity to continue leading Nigeria on the path of progress. Both deserve our unshakable support in 2027.”

    Youth mobiliser Comrade Abdulrauf Saheed (Na’aAllah) recalled that Mustapha’s bond with the Nupe community strengthened during the 2023 elections when he made specific promises which he has since fulfilled.

    He said: “Our experience with Senator Mustapha is unique. He kept his word, and that matters,” Saheed said. “If one good turn deserves another, we will stand with him and with President Tinubu, regardless of political affiliation.”

    The meeting also featured prayers for the success of both leaders in the 2027 polls, as speakers lauded Senator Mustapha’s empowerment initiatives and President Tinubu’s reforms.

    Mustapha’s aide, Abdulkareem Alabi, described the endorsement as a “profound vote of confidence” and urged the community to sustain unity and support for the AbdulRazaq administration.

    Senator Mustapha, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, is serving his first term in the Senate.

  • APC women leader launches senior citizens initiative

    APC women leader launches senior citizens initiative

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Woman Leader, Dr Mary Idele Alile, has inaugurated the APC Senior Citizens Initiative in Bayelsa State.

    It marks a significant milestone under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The launch event, held at the Lady Diana Memorial Hall in Yenagoa, brought together top APC leaders, prominent women mobilisers, and senior citizens representing all eight local government areas of the state. 

    The initiative aims to give elderly Nigerians a stronger voice within the party and national affairs.

    Dr. Alile described the programme as more than a welfare scheme, emphasising its role in politically reintegrating senior citizens into the APC’s decision-making processes. 

    Read Also: APC support group challenges Otti to account for increased revenue to Abia

    “This initiative is part of our broader Vision 2027 strategy under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    “We are creating a national platform to celebrate our senior citizens, attend to their welfare, and reintegrate them into the party’s decision-making structure,” she said.

    Hosted by Bayelsa State APC Women Leader, Mrs. Ebiere Juliana Akpobasa, the event featured free medical services provided by FMC Asaba, welfare distributions, health talks, and interactive townhall sessions designed to foster mentorship and unity between generations within the party.

    Political analysts note that Bayelsa is the first stop in a nationwide rollout led by Dr. Alile’s office, targeting all geopolitical zones to ensure the elderly’s wisdom and contributions are acknowledged and their participation in governance strengthened ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The APC National Woman Leader’s office remains the coordination centre for the programme, inviting media, volunteers, and party members to support this landmark initiative. 

    For many senior citizens in Bayelsa, the launch represents a welcome return to political relevance and recognition.

  • 2027: PDP confirms talks with Peter Obi

    2027: PDP confirms talks with Peter Obi

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed it is in active discussions with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, while maintaining a strong lineup of potential 2027 presidential contenders from among its governors.

    Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, reaffirmed PDP’s determination to reclaim legislative seats lost through defections and stressed the need for “absolute, 100% loyalty” from members.

    “This party has many very qualified, exceedingly qualified, performing governors that can become president of this country,” Ologunagba said. “So, when you ask me whether Jonathan is contesting, go and ask him, I don’t speak for President Jonathan. We are talking to Obi — ask Obi who is talking to him.”

    He further noted that the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) had mandated the party’s Legal Adviser to take constitutional steps to recover mandates from lawmakers who defected without justification, adding that the party would deal decisively with members campaigning for other political platforms.

    “Membership of the party is voluntary. What we will not take is disloyalty,” Ologunagba stressed, warning that PDP constitution would be invoked against members found to be working for rival political parties.

    On internal disputes and reconciliation, Ologunagba said politics was not a “zero-sum game” and that bitter pills sometimes had to be swallowed for the greater good.

    He noted that the party had adopted a multi-level approach to reconciliation—talking to members through formal party channels, religious spaces, and community platform – while avoiding confrontation.

    Giving a hint that another round of conflict between some party leaders and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike may soon become inevitable, Ologunagba asserted that the party cannot embrace the condition given by Wike that the re-election of Chief Dan Orbih as Chairman of the PDP for the South-South zone must be upheld, adding that instead, party leaders will continue to support the Chief Emmanuel Ogidi-led Caretaker Committee picked for the zone.

    He dismissed suggestions that the PDP would take instructions from any individual or entertain conditions being given by any political figure ahead of its national convention, maintaining that all processes were guided strictly by the party’s constitution.

    “PDP has not, and will not even take condition from anybody and we will follow that constitution anyway; we have a South-South Zonal Caretaker Committee and they’ve been functioning as such.

    “This party is People’s Democratic Party, based on rules and processes that every member is subjected to; with regards to the South-South, in March this year, the tenure of the South-South Zonal Committee expired by effluxion of time and in line with the practices and its constitution, the party’s National Working Committee decided to set up a Zonal Caretaker Committee for the South-South, headed by Elder Emma Ogidi.

    “In line with the processes of the party, we decided to formally inaugurate that committee and that committee has since started work, they’ve been working seamlessly; so there can only be one way to have that process and that process has been followed,” he explained.

    He further maintained that the PDP was “stable, strong, and pushing towards the national convention,” and welcoming back aggrieved members while making it clear that loyalty would be demanded and enforced.

    Explaining further, Ologunagba stated that PDP will not be extreme or dogmatic about following the recommendations of the Tom Ikimi Disciplinary Committee, poiting out that the party is also working on reconciliation and making efforts to fully welcome all those who wish to retrace their steps by returning to the PDP.

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    “Look, in politics there’s no zero-sum game, sometimes you swallow bitter pills and then move ahead; we, as a party have resolved in line with our capacity, to take care of challenges because it’s not a zero-sum game; you win some, you lose some and that’s what we’re good at reconciliation.

    “There are multiple conversations going on, there are people you can talk to in PDP, there are people you can talk to in churches, there are people you can talk to in the marketplace; what we have done is to do a multiple approach to reconciliation and we have discussed at different levels and we are determined.

    “That is what the PDP National Executive Committee has demonstrated; we have a process, we have constitution, we are going to obey it, we are going to follow through.

    “We are not confrontational, we are not fighting, we will respect our processes, we will respect our institutions, we will respect our organs, we will follow through, work together in the interest of the party one, in the interest of democracy and in the interest of Nigerians,” Ologunagba stated.

    “If we could read the secret history of our enemies, we should find in each man’s life, sorrow and suffering enough to disarm all hostility.”

  • Bye-election: Candidates sign peace accord in Ibadan

    Bye-election: Candidates sign peace accord in Ibadan

    Candidates jostling for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat of House of Representatives on Wednesday signed a peace deal for peaceful conduct before, during and after the August 16, election.

    The event, hosted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Oyo state had in attendance the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Adeniran Rahmon Tella who led top management staff of the Commission, the Oyo, Commissioner of Police, Oyo Cmmand, CP Femi Haruna who led other security Commanders, religious leaders, party leaders among other held at the INEC State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

    The REC said, although seven political parties conducted primaries that were monitored by the Commission, only five parties made the final list as published by the electoral umpire.

    The contestants for the Bye-election, who attended and signed the Peace Accord include: Akin-Alamu Dexter Femi of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Olatunji Haastrup Adewale of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Odususi Olajumoke Olabisi of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Oyekunle Fola of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hammed Badmus of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

    He added that, the essence of Peace Accord is to foster a conductive environment for voters to exercise their rights, ultimately contributing to the legitimacy and credibility of the electoral process.

    Dr Tella said, “In line with the timetable, party primaries have been conducted and 7 political parties were monitored by the Commission. Five politicai parties made the final list published by the Commission.

    “The parties and candidates that scaled through and that will be contesting in this upcom Bye-Election on Saturday are as follows: Hon. Akin Alamu Dexter Femi of African Democ Congress (ADC), Hon. Olatunji Haastrup Adewale of All Progressive Congress (APC). Odususi Olajumoke Olabisi of All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Hon. Oyekunle Fola S of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hon. Hammed Badmus of Zenith Labour Party respectively.

    “The essence of which is to foster a conductive environment for voters to exercise their rights, ultimately contributing to the legitimacy and credibility of the electoral process.

    “The Commission had constant engagements with the members of Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) with the Commissioner of Police as the lead Security Agency in this regard. Assurances have been made to ensure safety, protection of lives and property of the electorate before during and after the conduct of the coming election.”

    He appealed to all stakehders to adhere to the principles outlined in the Peace Accord saying, “Let us work together to create an environment that allows voters to exercise their rights without fear or intimidation.

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    “INEC is committed to conducting a credible election and we appreciate your cooperation in this regard. I encourage all flag-bearers and their supporters to maintain a high level of decorum and sportsmanship throughout the campaign period which incidentally comes to an end tomorrow, the 14th August 2025 accordingly.

    “I would like to express my gratitude to all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional leaders, security agencies, especially the Commissioner of Police and other members of Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), the Media and all relevant stakeholders in the electioneering process for their support in promoting peace and stability in the State.”

    In the separate remarks in an aside interview shortly after the signing, the candidates of the parties assures strict compliance withe the accord, urging INEC to remain impartial in the conduct of the election.

  • Rivers women hail peaceful preparations for LG poll

    Rivers women hail peaceful preparations for LG poll

    Rivers State women have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing peaceful preparations for the August 30th local government elections in the state.

    The stakeholders under the auspices of Women Unite for SIM (RWUS) noted the peaceful conclusions of primaries and the beginning of seamless campaigns across all 23 local government areas.

    The women in a statement signed by Glory Sunday described the milestone already attained in advancing peace in the state as more than a routine political exercise

    They said, “The peaceful conclusion of party primaries across all 23 Local Government Areas and the official commencement of campaigns for the forthcoming Local Government elections mark a new dawn in our political journey.

    “This milestone is far more than a routine political exercise. it is a living testament to the power of dialogue, reconciliation, and the conscious choice to prioritise harmony over discord.

    “It speaks to a renewed spirit of unity and cooperation among stakeholders, a spirit that benefits not only the political class but every man, woman, and child who calls Rivers State home.”

    The women vowed to remain steadfast in their prayers, interceding for peace, unity, and progress in every sector of the state’s affairs, especially in politics, economy, infrastructure, education, and social development.

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    The stakeholders said, “We congratulate all candidates who have emerged from various political parties and commend His Excellency, Governor of Rivers State, Sir (Dr) Siminalayi Fubara, and the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for demonstrating maturity, statesmanship, and a shared commitment to the process.

    “As mothers, wives, and daughters of Rivers State, our prayers and unwavering support remain with those chosen to lead, as well as with our entire citizenry. We believe that with reconciliation, harmony, and a collective sense of purpose, Rivers State will rise again to even greater heights.

    “We therefore call on all Rivers women to rise to the occasion. This is a season that demands deeper cooperation, renewed sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the growth and well-being of our beloved State. Let us continue to stand firm, stay focused, and remain courageous in the face of challenges.”