The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • Tinubu greets former VP Sambo at 71

    Tinubu greets former VP Sambo at 71

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to former Vice President Namadi Sambo on his 71st birthday, praising him as a man of integrity, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to national unity.

    In a statement on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the former Vice President as “an elder statesman” whose career in public service continues to inspire confidence in Nigeria’s democratic and regional institutions.

    Sambo, a renowned architect, served as Kaduna Governor from 2007 to 2010 before becoming Vice President under President Goodluck Jonathan from 2010 to 2015. 

    Tinubu commended the role Sambo played during his tenure, noting the “mutual respect” that defined his working relationship with President Jonathan, both in office and beyond.

    “Vice President Sambo is a man of integrity and loyalty who is deeply committed to Nigeria’s unity and stability,” Tinubu said.

    The President also acknowledged Sambo’s continued involvement in regional peace and democratic development, citing his leadership of ECOWAS Election Observation Missions to Ghana in December 2024 and to Niger Republic during the December 2020 and February 2021 polls.

    In his tribute, Tinubu also commended Sambo for his ongoing support for peace-building efforts in Kaduna State, particularly his collaboration with Governor Uba Sani in promoting religious tolerance and statewide stability.

    The President wished the former Vice President continued good health and many more years of service to the nation and the West African subregion.

  • Onuesoke faults Kwakwanso’ claim on Tinubu’s alleged marginalisation of North

    Onuesoke faults Kwakwanso’ claim on Tinubu’s alleged marginalisation of North

    Chairman/ CEO of DAS Energy Services Limited, Chief Sunny Onuesoke has faulted  Senator Rabiu Kwakwanso’s claim  that President  Bola Tinubu is marginalizing the Northern  part of Nigeria.

    Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the NNPP, while speaking during a Stakeholders’ Dialogue on the 2025 Constitutional Amendment organised by the Kano State government, accused Tinubu’s administration of sidelining the northern region.

    He alleged that national resources are being disproportionately channeled towards developing the South, the President’s home region, just as  he attributed rising poverty and insecurity  as well as deteriorating infrastructure to the neglect of the region by the Tinubu’s administration.

    Reacting to Kwankwaso’s alleged claim, while responding to questions from journalists at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on the issue,  Onuesoke, a prominent Delta political analyst  described the assertion as misleading and politically motivated.  

    He argued that Tinubu has in fact demonstrated a national outlook in appointments and development initiatives, with the North not left out.

    Onuesoke pointed out that  records available to Nigerians revealed that the Federal government has even executed more  projects in the North than in the South, adding that  when a former Senator Kwankwaso makes such farfetched allegation, one begins to wonder what he intends to achieve.

    On Infrastructure and investments, Onuesoke argued Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has delivered targeted infrastructure across the north, such as the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway to  enhancing connectivity from Abuja into the North which  includes airport linkage in Kano, major rural and agricultural road projects flagged off across Northern states.

    “The Greater Abuja Water Supply Network (Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6) was recently inaugurated, designed to serve districts across FCT including its Northern corridor. These projects underscores equitable public service access under Tinubu’s administration.

    “President  Tinubu has not marginalised the North,  rather he has made  strategic appointments and tangible infrastructure efforts across the region from rail connectivity and major highways to water supply systems. His administration is actively fostering unity, equity, and development in line with Nigeria’s constitutional Federal Character principle.

     “It is unfortunate that some leaders use ethnic or regional sentiments to push personal political agendas. If you look critically at Tinubu’s key appointments and projects, the North has benefited significantly. From ministerial positions to key security and economic roles, Northerners are strongly represented,” Onuesoke noted.

    Onuesoke, who was former Delta gubernatorial aspirants, urged national leaders to promote unity rather than stoke regional division, especially at a time when the country needs healing and cooperation across all zones.

    While emphasising on the importance of leaders focusing on performance and accountability rather than using the narrative of marginalization for political leverage, Onuesoke urged   President Tinubu to stay focused on delivering good governance, warning that playing to regional pressures could derail efforts to reposition Nigeria.

    “I call on Nigerians, including Kwankwaso to “reject divisive rhetoric, and embrace factual dialogue, and support a government that spans the entire nation in vision and implementation,” he advised.

  • PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    PDP loyalists slam ADC defectors, vow to keep party strong in Enugu

    Leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State have lashed out at members defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accusing them of sowing division within the PDP before abandoning ship.

    The Concerned PDP Stakeholders Forum, a coalition of founding members, grassroots mobilisers, and former executives, alleged those aligning with the ADC were the very individuals who destabilised the PDP and are seeking refuge after causing internal crises.

    “They want to destroy the PDP and run, but we won’t let them succeed,” Ozo Okey Ozoani, the group’s leader and former PDP state vice chairman said while addressing reporters after a strategy meeting in Enugu weekend. 

    “These same people fuelled the confusion around the National Secretary seat, and now they’re jumping to the ADC.”

    Ozoani insisted that the PDP in Enugu remains solid and unshaken despite defections and speculations surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s rumored move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “We are here to restore hope in the PDP. Enugu has never known any other party since 1998. It’s not easy to go to the wards and preach a new party to our people,” he said.

    The forum emphasised the state chapter would not follow any politician blindly, even if the Governor were to leave. 

    “The PDP is not moving with anyone. Many of us are here to stay,” Ozoani declared.

    He also dismissed agitation by some Southeast PDP members threatening to quit the party if SKE Ude-Okoye is not made National Secretary. 

    “That’s a divisive move. The current occupant of that office is from the Southeast—Senator Anyanwu from Imo. Why push him out for another Southeast candidate from Enugu?” he queried.

    Joining the conversation, a former Udi council chairman and ex-aide to Senator Ike Ekweremadu, Engr. Nicholas Obiora Ozonsi, said the party’s survival must not depend on one individual. 

    “We will defend the PDP even if the governor takes a different path. Our loyalty is to the party, not personalities,” Ozonsi said, stressing the need to safeguard the PDP’s legacy and credibility.

    “If anything happens overnight, people must still find the PDP standing,” he said.

    The group said it will begin reconciliation efforts across wards and local government areas to bring back disillusioned members and keep the party united ahead of future elections.

    “We are not just loyalists,” Ozoani added. “We are guardians of the PDP in Enugu, and we’re here to remind everyone that PDP is still the party to beat.”

  • Osun 2026: Adeleke denies fratanising with ADC amid Aregbesola’s visit to Oyinlola

    Osun 2026: Adeleke denies fratanising with ADC amid Aregbesola’s visit to Oyinlola

    Ahead of 2026 Osun governorship election, Governor Ademola Adeleke on Friday denied fraternising with African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola. 

    This is coming amid the visit of Aregbesola to former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s residence during the week after Adeleke described the ADC scribe as a worthy Governor in the history of Osun State. 

    The Governor through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed in a statement on Friday noted that Adeleke is not defecting to ADC or aligning with anybody within the coalition ahead of the 2026 elections.

    He affirmed that Adeleke remains in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and is going to win the 2026 governorship elections on the platform of the PDP with wide margin..

    According to him: “Our attention has been drawn to news reports and media enquiries about the imminent defection of Governor Adeleke to the ADC or alignment with ADC big wigs ahead of the 2026 governorship race. There is no truth in those publications and speculations.

    Read Also: Osun 2026: Tinubu’s comment rekindles speculations on Adeleke’s possible defection to APC

    “First of all, we, the PDP Osun, have already adopted and endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, so there is no alliance with ADC. Adeleke has no alliance with anyone in ADC.”

    “The Osun electorate supports Adeleke because of his impressive performance since he came to office. That good work is still ongoing and Osun people are committed to sustaining the delivery of good governance by re-electing Governor Adeleke in 2026.”

    He urged PDP members to forge ahead with the ongoing strengthening of the party structures across all levels to prepare for fresh victory next year.”

  • Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. 

    Speaking on Friday at a special meeting of the Ondo State Leaders Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa praised President Tinubu for his bold and administrative economic reforms, most especially in the petroleum sector and monetary policy. 

    He explained that the state has benefited immensely from the president, stressing the need to begin a grassroots political support for his re-election bid. 

    The Governor, who canvassed the need to strengthen the APC in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections, launched the ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 Movement in order to begin grassroots mobilisation. 

    “We don’t have any pending governorship election here in Ondo State. Therefore, we have to focus all our efforts on mobilising grassroots votes for the re-election of the President in 2007.

    “It is granted that the President will win the election. However, for us in the South West and Ondo State, the victory must be overwhelming,” Aiyedatiwa declared.

    Read Also: Appeal Court upholds Aiyedatiwa’s victory

    He added the decision of the National Economic Council to launch the Renewed Hope Ward Development Progrmamme is aimed at taking development further to the grassroots. 

    Further addressing party stakeholders after an interactive session, the governor emphasised the need for unity among the APC members in the state and reaffirmed the supremacy of the party in the state’s political affairs.

    According to him, all groups within the party must operate under its leadership and that the newly reconstituted Caucus would meet regularly.

    “Our strength lies in our unity, and all of us as leaders of the APC in the state must come together to build on the foundation already laid.

    “Because we are heading towards general elections, it is expected that various support groups will spring up. However, all groups must be under the leadership of the Central Party structure, which has the State Working Committee and the State Caucus as core components.”

    He also used the occasion to intimate the party leaders with the efforts of his administration towards the development of the state, particularly since he was sworn into office in February.

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, the member representing Akure North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Derin Adesida said that the gathering was enshrined in the APC constitution to enable leaders to meet and deliberate on the party’s future.

    Also, a stalwart of the APC in the state, Ambassador Sola Iji, commended the givernor for conveying the meeting, saying the constitutional caucus meeting is primarily reserved for top echelons of the party. 

    The Nation reports the Caucus later appointed the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, and the State Secretary of the APC, Mrs. Roseline Okafor, to coordinate the state secretariat of the Caucus. 

    Those who attended the meeting included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, and two of his predecessors, Alhaji Ali Olanusi and Lasisi Oluboyo.

    Others included Senator Jide Ipinsagba of Ondo North and Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire of Ondo Central, as well as former Senators Titus Olupitan and Remi Okunrinboye. 

    The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, former Speakers Kenneth Olawale, Victor Olabimtan, and Bamidele Oleyeloogun were also in attendance. 

    Also, the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ololade Gbegudu, former Deputy Speakers Dare Emiola, and Abayomi Akinruntan graced the meeting. 

    Other are: Members of the House of Representatives – Hon. Abiola Makinde, Hon. Jimi Odimayo, Kolawole Babatunde and Tajudeen Adefisoye, and Hon Gbenga Elegbele were present. 

    The party leadership in the state was led by the Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin. Former Chairmen of the defunct ACN, Mrs. Jumoke Ajasin-Anifowose among several others. 

    Photos at the Friday’s Caucus meeting held at government house Banquet Hall in Akure. 

  • 2027: PDP lacks direction in Bauchi, says APC chieftain

    2027: PDP lacks direction in Bauchi, says APC chieftain

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State, Comrade Sabo Muhammad, has criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing it of lacking direction and a credible candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Speaking at a reception organised in his honour by the Shehu Buba Vanguard, Muhammad dismissed the perceived strength of the PDP, asserting that the APC is strategically positioned to reclaim power in the state.

    “The PDP lacks direction in terms of having a credible candidate that can match ours,” he said, adding that the APC already has a widely accepted and politically experienced contender.

    Muhammad, recently appointed as a new media aide to Senator Shehu Buba, representing Bauchi South, revealed that the APC has developed a comprehensive media strategy to promote its candidate and unify the party’s campaign messaging.

    Read Also: Bauchi woos Southeast investors as Gov declares State “haven of peace”

    He emphasised the need for internal unity within the APC and urged members to cooperate to achieve their common goal of electoral victory in 2027.

    Also speaking at the event, the Director General of the Shehu Buba Vanguard, Ishaq Dabo, said the reception was held to celebrate Muhammad’s appointment and to reaffirm support for Senator Shehu Buba’s anticipated governorship bid.

    Dabo praised Senator Buba’s track record, noting his contributions to employment generation, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development, including the construction of a tiled road—an unprecedented project in Bauchi State.

    He described Buba as a “sellable candidate” whose legacy projects and performance make him the ideal choice to lead the state.

  • ADC acting chairman denounces designation letter 

    ADC acting chairman denounces designation letter 

    The Acting National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Nafiu Bala, has dismissed claims that he resigned as the party’s Deputy National Chairman, describing the purported resignation letter circulating in the public as fake and fabricated.

    In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Bala condemned the document, dated May 18, 2025, as entirely false and misleading, accusing certain mischievous elements within and outside the party of orchestrating the misinformation.

    Bala had on Thursday at a press conference in Abuja assumed the role of Acting National Chairman, following the recent resignation of the party’s National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu. He maintained that his succession is in line with the party’s hierarchy.

    The statement read, “I am writing to address a matter of utmost importance that has recently surfaced in the public domain, a fabricated letter of resignation purportedly authored by me, Nafiu Bala, dated 18 May 2025. This document, which has been circulated by certain mischievous elements within and outside our party, is entirely false and without merit. 

    “I wish to unequivocally state that I have not resigned from my position as the Deputy National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The timing and content of this fake resignation letter are not only misleading but also riddled with glaring contradictions that raise serious questions about its authenticity. 

    “Notably, while the letter claims I resigned on 18 May 2025, it is critical to highlight that on 2 July 2025, during a meeting to receive certain new members into the ADC at the Yar’Adua Conference Center in Abuja, my predecessor, Ralph Nwosu, publicly declared his own resignation. 

    “In his address to the global media, he made a specific mention of my status, stating, “Nafiu Bala did not resign as the Deputy National Chairman.” This statement alone invalidates any claims of my resignation and underscores the deceitful nature of the circulated letter. Furthermore, I would like to draw attention to the discrepancies between my official correspondence and the aforementioned fake resignation letter.

    Read Also: ADC not strong enough to unseat Tinubu, says Idimogu 

    “All my official communications have been conducted on the official headed paper of my office, which bears the emblem and insignia of the African Democratic Congress. In stark contrast, the fraudulent resignation letter is presented on plain paper, devoid of any official markings. This blatant difference in presentation further undermines the credibility of the document and highlights the nefarious intentions behind its circulation.

    “In light of these developments, I must also question the authenticity of those who are now posing as new leaders of our party. The constitution of the African Democratic Congress clearly stipulates that any individual seeking to assume a leadership position must be a member of the party and must have maintained their financial obligations for a minimum of one year prior to their candidacy. 

    “This provision has not been amended, and any claims to the contrary are simply unfounded. It is essential that we uphold the integrity of our party’s Constitution and ensure that all leadership transitions adhere to the established guidelines.

    “The integrity of our party’s governance structures must be preserved, and any actions taken outside of these formal processes cannot be recognized as legitimate.”

    Bala then called on all party members, supporters, and the broader public to remain alert in the face of misinformation and to reject efforts aimed at sowing discord within the party ranks. 

    He added, “Our party is built on the principles of democracy, transparency, and integrity, and it is imperative that we work together to uphold these values.

    “I reaffirm my commitment to the African Democratic Congress and its vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria. Together, we will continue to advance our agenda and serve the interests of the people we represent.”

  • Progressives Yes Forum endorses Tinubu for second term

    Progressives Yes Forum endorses Tinubu for second term

    A group within the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Oyo State ‘Progressive Yes Forum’ (PYF) has declared support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. 

    PYF, at an event in Ibadan which has in attendance former Deputy Governors in Oyo State, Chief Iyiola Oladokun and Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, with some leaders of the party said the step became necessary to ensure that the party retains power at federal and state levels.

    PYF chairman, Comr. Wole Abisoye said Tinubu deserves re-election considering his achievements in the last two years.

    Abisoye urged members of the party to allow legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain their guiding light, adding that Awolowo’s government founded principles of welfarism, discipline and visionary planing, which brought monumental progress to the people.

    Read Also: Super Falcons: How Tinubu deepened long-tradition of rewarding sporting  heroes

    According to him: “As we chart a course for the future of Oyo State, we must revisit the principle of party supremacy that Awolowo championed. Our task is to reclaimed the lost ideal of progressivism in Oyo State, progressivism is not just about holding office but building future that is brighter, fairer and stronger for every citizens.

    “Fellow Progressive, we must unite as one family, internal division, personal rivalries and disregard for party structures only weakened the party. Let us all renewed our pledge to uphold party supremacy, discipline and collective decision making.

    “Let us all rise above our difference to place the welfare of our people above all else, and to reclaim the vision that made Oyo State beacon of Progressivism in Nigeria. Let us all work in the footstep of Awolowo for the future of Oyo State belong to those who date to build it.”

    Oyo APC chairman, Alhaji Olaide Abass, assured that there will be level playing ground for contestants in the party come 2027.

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    Also, the Conference Planning Committee chairman, Hon. Rasaq Olubodun said endorsement of President Tinubu for second term is long overdue, adding that APC is returning to Aso Rock in Abuja and government house in Agodi, Ibadan.

    Olubodun, who described the conference as aggregation of consultations across the state with respect to progressive governance in Oyo State, lamented that it been a while the party has been out of power in the state due to some internal crises 

    He noted that Progressive governance stated in Ibadan led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, adding that no party should to rule in Southwest accept progressive party.

  • ADC not strong enough to unseat Tinubu, says Idimogu

    ADC not strong enough to unseat Tinubu, says Idimogu

    As fingers point towards Peter Obi as the plausible candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 presidential election, a former two-term lawmaker who represented Oshodi/Isolo State Constituency 11 at the Lagos Assembly, Hon. Jude Emeka Idimogu, has advised Obi to drop his presidential ambition and support President Bola Tinubu’s second tenure bid.

    Idimogu, who is the Deputy Leader of Ndigbo in Lagos APC, advised Obi in a chat with reporters in Lagos recently.

    He said it would be difficult for Obi to defeat Tinubu on any political platform in the next presidential election.

    Backing a recent call by the Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okey Nwadinobi, urging Obi to drop his 2027 ambition and support Tinubu, Idimogu, who was House Committee Chairman on Commerce and Industry between 2015 and 2019 and House Committee Chairman on Wealth Creation and Employment between 2019 and 2023, said: “I strongly agree with the Ohanaeze chieftain’s appeal to Obi about dropping his ambition and supporting Tinubu as both leaders are from the South.”

    The ex-lawmaker added that Obi’s ambition would only divide Southern votes again and dwindle the region’s chances in 2027.

    Aligning his views with others, Idimogu expressed his view that it would be difficult for Obi or any other candidate from the South to defeat Tinubu on any political platform in the next presidential election.

    He urged all noteworthy Southern politicians to rally behind Tinubu and work to ensure his victory in 2027.

    “This time, it’s the turn of the South to produce and complete its eight-year tenure. Let’s not allow another Southern candidate to disrupt the zoning formula that ultimately would be to the advantage of Northern interests,” he stated.

    Idimogu compared the situation to Buhari’s eight-year presidency, where northerners combined forces in support of their candidate despite public dissatisfaction.

    Read Also: Tinubu appoints Majekodunmi as new DG of Climate Change Council

    “Tinubu deserves full support for a second term. He cannot undo Nigeria’s problems in just two years. With unity, progress is possible,” he stated, noting that a united Southern backing for Tinubu would guarantee a fair outcome and preserve the region’s hold on power.

    While acknowledging Obi’s right to run for the presidency, Idimogu urged Igbo leaders to prioritise regional interest by backing Tinubu’s second term bid.

    He appealed to Northern politicians to also support Tinubu to complete a Southern presidency for equity and national stability.

    According to him, constructive criticism and alternative solutions from the opposition are welcome, but unity must be given priority in the scheme of things.

    “Neither the PDP nor the ADC has a candidate strong enough to unseat Tinubu,” Idimogu stated.

  • 2027: Tinubu will win with at least 15m votes, says ex-presidential aspirant

    2027: Tinubu will win with at least 15m votes, says ex-presidential aspirant

    …dismisses ADC coalition as baseless

    Former presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Nicolas Felix, has predicted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure no fewer than 15 million votes in the 2027 general election, dismissing the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a weak alliance built on shaky foundations.

    Felix made the prediction on Thursday in Suleja, Niger State, during a community outreach where his DNF Foundation International distributed thousands of litres of free fuel to residents.

    Flanked by the APC Deputy National Women Leader, Hon. Zainab Ibrahim, Felix downplayed the threat of opposition coalitions, stating that such alliances were bound to collapse due to a lack of genuine vision and purpose.

    “In a democracy, opposition is normal. But we are not threatened. Let them gather. They will scatter,” he said. “Come 2027, President Tinubu will win with nothing less than 15 million votes. Nigerians are beginning to see the results of his policies.”

    He pointed to the recent disbursement of over N100 billion in interest-free educational grants to 600,000 students through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) as one of the many achievements that would sway voters in the President’s favour.

    Felix added that the free fuel distribution was part of his ongoing commitment to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration. 

    Read Also: NPA promotes indigenous ownership of vessels in line with Tinubu’s policy

    He explained that the outreach specifically targeted low-income earners such as commercial motorcyclists and tricycle riders, whom he described as the real beneficiaries of government support.

    “This initiative is about putting smiles on the faces of ordinary Nigerians,” he said. “We’ve done this in Edo and now again in Suleja. It’s about giving back.”

    APC Deputy National Women Leader, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim, praised the gesture, saying it reflected the party’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Some of the commercial riders who benefited from the fuel distribution expressed gratitude to the foundation and called on other APC leaders to emulate the initiative.