The Ogbe-ljoh Kingdom Oil Producing Communities in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State has threatened to disrupt oil and gas operations in their area if perceived injustice against them in the allocation of wards is not addressed.
The communities rejected INEC’s proposed allocation of 19 Registration Areas/Electoral Wards for the LGA as contained in its field report, insisting they “deserve eight wards” being the most populated area with more land mass and communities in Warri Southwest, and as well, in line with the Electoral Act, 2022 and INEC’s Guidelines/Criteria for the fresh delineation.
At a briefing at Tekedor/Kusimi Community, also known as Egwa II, Tuesday, the Ogbe-Ijoh oil communities called on the Chairman of INEC to address the “gross and wicked injustice” against them, for the interest of peace and fairness.
A statement by Dcn. Clement Tekedor, Chief Samson Oyimi, Emmanuel Kusimi and Johnbull Aniyangha warned: “We shall be forced to take our destiny into our hands and cannot guarantee the further flow of oil and gas from our communities, if the injustice against us is not addressed. We will shut down oil and gas facilities in our communities, if this grave injustice against us is not addressed by INEC.”
Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom is host to the Ajuju/Batan oil field, Egwa II oil field and flowstation, Odidi I and II oil fields, Ikremo manifold, Ugbanabubou field, and flowstations in OML 30, OML 42 and PPL 213.
They expressed dismay that out of 19 wards proposed for the LGA, only two were allocated to Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom while nine was allocated to Gbaramatu Kingdom, five to Itsekiri Communities, two to Isaba Kingdom and one to Diebiri Clan.
They also worried that communities with existing polling units like Tekedor/Kusimi, Kusimi, Eweregbene, Boubougbene, Dudueghagbene and Dubelegbene were suppressed with fictitious communities included in their places in the map that was drawn up by INEC.
“It is important to note that, the Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom by the records of the National Population Commission (NPC) has the highest population, landmass and settlements/communities in Warri South West Local Government Area. Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom settlements and communities constitute One Hundred and Sixteen (116) Localities (after removing Diebiri Clan) out of the Two Hundred and Ninety (290) Localities in the entire Warri South West Local Government in the National Population Commission (NPC) Housing and Locality Enumeration Report, 2023, which represents about 40% of the entire local government area.
“During the field work, INEC officials visited 130 Communities/Localities and identified 251 points for creation of polling units in Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom.
“INEC in its Guidelines/Criteria for the fresh delineation released on the 21st of March, 2024 before the field work, stated that, population, geographical compactness and contiguity shall form the basis of the fresh delineation in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.
“However, the interim report released by INEC runs contrary to all the Criteria contained in its Guidelines on the fresh delineation, especially population which is the foundation for the fresh delineation of registration areas.
“Despite Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom, having the highest population of about 40%, we were allocated only two (2) out of the nineteen (19) Registration areas/electoral wards proposed for Warri South West LGA.
“The question we are asking INEC is, what criteria did you use in allocating Registration Areas/Electoral Wards in Warri South West LGA? How did INEC arrive at the decision to allocate only two Registration Areas/Electoral Wards to Ogbe-Ijoh and allocated nine (9) to Gbaramatu Kingdom? Is INEC saying that Gbaramatu Kingdom is five (5) times populated and bigger than Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom? Also, is INEC saying that the Itsekiri Communities in Warri South West Local Government Area are three (3) times bigger and populated than Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom?
“We the oil producing Communities of Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom make bold to state that, there is no record anywhere which shows that Gbaramatu Kingdom is five (5) times bigger than Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom. There is also no record anywhere to the effect that, the Itsekiri Communities in Warri South West are three times more populated and bigger than Ogbe-Ijoh Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom.
“On the contrary, the available records by the National Population Commission which is the body empowered to keep records of population, localities and housing data in Nigeria shows that Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom is more populated with actual localities/communities than all other Kingdoms and ethnic groups in Warri South West Local Government Area,” parts of the statement read.
They alleged that series of letters to INEC seeking redress appear being frustrated by “powerful persons in INEC,” further disclosing that same individuals “have again made recommendations that are worse than the earlier interim report that was released on April 4, 2025.
“We are aware that, these powerful officers of INEC are working with some political stakeholders in Warri South West Local Government Area. The purpose is to politically decimate and dominate the Ogbe-Ijoh people. We reject this act of wickedness and we shall use every means at our disposal to fight for justice. The Ogbe-Ijoh Kingdom and its oil producing Communities eill not and will never accept this injustice.”
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed as lies the allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the governing party are plotting to undermine and destabilise the opposition coalition party.
ADC Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi in a statement on Monday levied the allegation against the President and the ruling party.
Citing “credible intelligence”, ADC alleged that its party state chairmen in the North East and North West zones were summoned to a “secret meeting with officials of the federal government”, in a plot to intimidate and coerce the opposition coalition.
Trashing the allegation, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday said that ADC has chosen to trudge on the “beaten path of lies and deception like its opposition counterparts, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP).
APC noted that beyond the rash of poorly imagined accusations, the statement did not offer substantiation of any kind.
According to the ruling party, “It’s vague reference to “officials of federal government” only belies the mischievous intent of its makers to whip up sentiments, manipulate public opinion, and distract Nigerians from the patent hopelessness of their political phishing expedition.
“Otherwise, why is it so impossible for ADC to provide Nigerians the details of the alleged “secret meeting” at which its senior party officers were “coerced and intimidated”. Rather, the party cites nonsensical “credible intelligence” as basis for its devious allegations.
“Clearly, there was no such meeting, and certainly, no one could have been coerced or intimidated at a meeting that never was. This could have happened only in the warped imagination of masters of deception and marauding invaders of the ADC.”
The ruling party argued further that there was no reason for the President or APC to expend valuable time and energy trying to sow confusion within ADC that is already mortally wounded by confusion delivered by its invaders.
“The ADC needs no help from our great Party to unravel as it must from its own internal dissonance, contradictions and discord of self-serving and vainglorious personalities that executed a gestapo-like takeover of the party to the chagrin of bonafide leaders and members of the party.
“The ADC’s statement is just a calculated preemptive excuse for its evident ill-fated future of disintegration, like Humpty Dumpty whose great fall could not be put back together again. It has placed on public display the incompetence and inability of its leadership to manage its impending internal crisis, in the same way they proved incapable of managing the internal affairs of opposition parties they have plundered serially before the ADC.
“And what good can possibly come out of a coalition of our country’s most inept politicians and architects of misrule, corruption, poverty and underdevelopment who are now congregated in ADC? What else can be expected from a coalition of failed and restless presidential contenders determined to bring down the roof on the altar of their inordinate ambitions?
“As an agglomeration of politicians desperate for presidential power, the ADC has nothing to offer Nigerians and has failed to articulate any alternative vision of governance and development for Nigeria beyond the sound and fury of grudge, vendetta, inordinate presidential ambitions of its leaders. Their strategy appears to begin and end with vilifying our great party and attacking President Tinubu’s incomparable and unassailable record of economic reconstruction and wholesome transformation of our country.
“The ADC and its leaders may be convinced of their ability to lie their way to presidential victory but they have a highly intelligent and discerning Nigerian electorate to contend with.
“They say one thing, mean another and do yet another. From Mr. Peter Obi’s desperate vow to serve a single term of four years if elected as president, and his pledge to fly only commercial airlines as president, even though he campaigned with steeze and opulence in private jets throughout the 2023 election season; to Mallam El-Rufai who failed spectacularly in comparison to mind-blowing transformation of Abuja by the award-wining incumbent Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike; to Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola whose lack-luster performance as Minister of Interior is now so glaring in the face of the innovation and super efficiency introduced by the current Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; to Hadi Sirika whose tenure as Aviation Minister was characterised by invidious scandals, aside floating a phantom Nigerian Air, now even more disgraceful in comparison with the drastic improvements in our airports and the aviation sector, in general, under the watch of Olorogun Festus Keyamo (SAN), Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, none of the proponents of the coalition has the vision, the courage, competence, credibility, track record, zeal and patriotism to serve Nigeria better than President Bola Tinubu is already doing.”
As political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections intensifies, two key opposition figures in Ondo State—Eyitayo Jegede and Agboola Ajayi—are set to lead a new coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform.
Jegede and Ajayi, who were the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidates in the 2020 and 2024 elections, respectively, will spearhead the coalition alongside other prominent PDP leaders.
Among those joining the coalition are former Ondo South Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, ex-lawmaker Prof. Bode Ayorinde, former PDP State Chairman Tola Alabere, former PDP Publicity Secretary Kennedy Peretei, and Sola Agboola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Speaking at the inauguration of the coalition’s state structure in Akure on Tuesday, Prof. Ayorinde said the movement into ADC reflects growing public dissatisfaction with the status quo.
He emphasised that the coalition, also being championed at the national level by Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola, is built on grassroots mobilisation rather than financial inducement.
Ayorinde added that ADC membership cards would soon be distributed across wards and local government areas to facilitate expansion across the state’s 18 LGAs.
“We called Eyitayo Jegede, who should have been here but was unavoidably absent because of his engagement in Abuja. We have also reached Agboola Ajayi, who is already with us and has our support anytime.
“So, we need everybody on board, and our membership would cut across all boards. Our membership cards will be shared around the state, wards, and the LGA. We’re not sharing any money here, but to work and gain power,” Ayorinde said.
But Mr Jegede’s media aide, Olumide Ogunkua, said his principal has not let the PDP.
In a chat with the NATION, Ogunkua said, “Jegede is still in PDP, but he’s in support of a coalition that would bring about a change in government.”
Earlier, Mr Peretei described the emergence of the coalition as both timely and necessary.
“This is not just about big names joining a new party. It is about responding to the urgent need for political direction in Ondo and in Nigeria at large,” he said.
Peretei claimed that in some areas, PDP structures have already completely dissolved into the ADC, suggesting the opposition party’s influence is fading in parts of the state.
“There was a fear that Nigeria might slip into a one-party system, but that fear is quickly fading. The ruling party knows the tide is turning.”
He also hinted at disunity within the APC, suggesting the coalition would take full advantage of any internal cracks in the ruling party.
“Today is just the beginning. Expect more political shifts in the coming days,” he added.
Remarking, Shola Agboola, former state Secretary, Social Democratic Party (SDP), said those attending the coalition were doing so in private capacities, not on behalf of their parties.
“So, people who are identified as political technocrats are invited, and that is why people like us are here.
“And we are not just here, it is because of the prevailing situation in the country. Everybody is disjointed because nobody is satisfied at all.
“It will be too dangerous for Nigeria to go one-party state. And it is not possible for a single party to defeat the ruling party, we don’t have to deceive ourselves,” he said.
Nasarawa stakeholders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) have declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term bid in 2027.
The stakeholders also urged Governor Abdullahi Sule who would complete his second term in 2027, to seek election into the Senate to represent Nasarawa North.
The two endorsement came weekend during the APC stakeholders meeting of Nasarawa North Senatorial district in Akwanga local government area.
The Commissioner of Water Resources Hon Muluku Agah Mohammed moved the motion to adopt Tinubu and Sule as sole candidates while Commissioner of Youths and Sports, Hon Kwanta Yakubu seconded it..
Executive Chairman, Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board, NSUBEB Dr Kassim Muh’d Kassim said the decision to send Sule to represent Nasarawa North in the 11th Senate is a collective decision of the entire stakeholders of the Nasarawa North Senatorial district.
He declared readiness to deliver Tinubu and Sule, stating that their leadership has brought economic reforms and inclusive governance deserving of continuity .
“This is a collective decision by all of us to support President Tinubu for a second term, and our Governor, Engr Abdullahi Sule to go to the Senate in 2027, we will mobilize our people to deliver them in 2027”
“We have endorsed Governor Abdullahi Sule today to proceed to the Senate due to his immeasurable achievements, his experience, exposure and network can lead to more efficient and effective legislative business as far as his personality is concern.
“Allowing a polished democrat like Governor Sule to represent us at the Senate will provide stability and continuity in governance. We are begging Governor Sule to be our leading light because he has govern us well, he is a detribalised Nigerian, he is an easy going and indivisible fellow who enjoys interacting with people. Engr Abdullahi Sule is the only Governor in the history of Nigeria that picks strange calls and return miss calls.
“A leader that operates an open door policy and people’s friendly leadership styles, and we can’t afford to lose such a man in the leadership of the northern zone,” he said
Reading the communique after the meeting, Former Secretary to State Government, SSG Mr Timothy Anjide said: “The stakeholders of the APC in Nasarawa North Senatorial district met in a critical session to deliberate on pressing issues concerning the party, the government, and the future of the district.
“The meeting was attended by virtually all the key Stakeholders of the APC in the Senatorial district and after extensive and fruitful deliberations, the meeting resolved to acknowledge and appreciate President Tinubu for appointing son’s and daughters of Nasarawa North Senatorial district in to strategic positions in federal agencies, boards and parastatals.
“In recognition of his vision, leadership and developmental focus, the stakeholders unanimously endorse Mr President for a second term in office.
“The stakeholders deeply appreciate His Excellency for his unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, impactful developmental strides and consistent support for the APC family in the district.
“A unanimous vote of confidence was pass on His Excellency, Engr Abdullahi Sule with strong call and appeal to His Excellency to represent Nasarawa North in the Senate come 2027.”
The meeting was convened by Chairman of Akwanga and chairman of ALGON in the state, Hon Safiyanu Isa Andahar, supported by the Chairman of Nasarawa Eggon and Wamba LGAs
All party officials from council wards, LGAs, State and Zonal officers from the zone attended the endorsement meeting.
The Delta State Government has extended warm felicitations to the immediate past Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, on the occasion of his 66th birth anniversary.
Okowa, who served as Governor of Delta State from 2015 to 2023 and Vice presidential candidate of the PDP in the 2023 general election, turned 66 on July 8, 2025.
In a heartfelt message on his Facebook page on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, described Senator Okowa as an exceptional leader, mentor, and father figure who had remained a pillar of support and a source of inspiration to many, including himself.
“Happy Birthday to my wonderful leader and mentor!” Aniagwu wrote.
“With a heart full of gratitude, I wish you a fantastic year ahead filled with happiness, fulfilment, and continued success. I remain grateful for the guidance and inspiration you have consistently provided to me.
“Your leadership and unwavering support have left a lasting imprint on my life and career.”
Aniagwu who served as Chief Press Secretary and Commissioner for Information under Okowa’s administration, praised the former governor for his remarkable achievements in public service and for his enduring legacy in governance, politics, and leadership, noting that his humility, wisdom, and passion for development continue to inspire the younger generation.
“Thank you for being such a great leader and mentor. I truly appreciate everything I have learnt from you over the years,” Aniagwu added.
The Works Commissioner concluded with a passionate salute to the former governor, hailing him as “Ekwueme”— the one who speaks and stands by his word, reaffirming the deep respect and admiration he holds for Okowa.
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Adewale, has said former Vice President Atiku Abubakar should not be held responsible for the party’s struggles and decline.
Adewale, popularly known as Aeroland and a former PDP chairman in Lagos State, made the remark during an interview in Lagos while reacting to a recent accusation by former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George.
George had blamed Abubakar and other former party leaders for the collapse of the PDP, accusing them of jumping ship to lead a new opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He expressed his concerns during a Friday appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, where he criticised Abubakar and former Senate President David Mark for aligning with the ADC-led alliance aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Responding, Adewale said it was George, not Abubakar, who contributed to the party’s decline, especially in Lagos, alleging that George had consistently worked against the PDP in every election cycle in the state.
Adewale said, “I read with dismay a recent statement credited to Chief Bode George claiming that Atiku Abubakar joined the opposition coalition after destroying the PDP.
“What could be more shameful and disgraceful than a known serial betrayer of Lagos PDP accusing another person of destroying the PDP.
“Is it not ludicrous that the same person that has serially and openly worked against the PDP and openly instructing his supporters to work for ADP and Labour party, at different election cycles in Lagos, now claims Atiku destroyed the PDP?”
He said that George as founding member of PDP had not delivered a polling units, including his, to PDP since 1999.
He added, “Despite all Bode George has benefited from the party, he has never won his polling booth or produced even a councilor from his ward.
“I challenge anyone who has any evidence of Bode George winning his polling booth or producing a councilor since 1999, I will give the person N5 million.”
Adewale alleged that in 2017, George While on Channels Television, directed PDP members vote for ADP during the LG election.
He added that George in 2019, through a press conference also directed PDP members to vote for the ADP Gubernatorial candidate, Babatunde Gbadamosi.
Adewale also alleged that in 2023, George also told PDP members to vote for Labour Party ahead of the 2023 general election.
He noted that Abubakar was not part of the people that could be accused of destroying PDP, rather the former vice president had worked and spent for the party.
He said, “So, Bode George should just keep quiet and stop offending our sensibilities. Atiku did not violate any party rule or guideline.
“Atiku has contributed and worked greatly for PDP unlike Bode George and his ilk that would rather secretly work for the ruling party while in PDP in Lagos in every election cycle.”
The National Secretary of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Bashiru, has told opposition leaders joining the coalition force against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to wait till 2031, stating there is no vacancy in Aso Rock in 2027.
He urged whoever wants to contest against Tinubu to keep his resources till 2031 because there is no vacancy at the Villa.
Speaking in Ibadan during a media engagement tagged: Moment with Sen. Surajudeen Ajibola Bashiru” organised by the Zone B of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the APC National Secretary debunked speculations that the North is ganging up against President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027,
He described those behind the speculations as disgruntled politicians who had the opportunity to develop the North but refused to do so.
He noted that all the noise from the opposition leaders is all about contesting to protect individual ambition and selfish interest and not the development of Nigeria.
He lamented that all the opposition leaders are after is how to wrestle power at all costs.
“The North is absolutely in support of APC, one of the greatest support the party is enjoying is from the North.
“Only people who don’t have the love of the North at heart will say Tinubu should not be reelected. President Tinubu is a true Nigerian and a patriot.
“Go to the streets of Kano, Kaduna Kastina and Gombe and see how Asiwaju is being celebrated. As the national secretary of our party, I’ve been to almost all states in the North, Northerners are in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection 2027 agenda.
“It’s a lie from the pit of hell to say the North is ganging up against President Tinubu. The North today is solidly behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term agenda.
“In Kastina, all political party structures collapsed to support President Tinubu’s 2027 Agenda.
“Kaduna state today under Governor Uba Sanni, APC is the only viable electoral machine in that state.
“Today, we have highest numbers of National Assembly members in Kano, Senator Kau had already decamped into our party, we have the Deputy Senate President, the chairman of House Committee on Appropriation is within the APC.
“Also, Sokoto state under the leadership of Sen. Wamako, we are very strong there, these are facts.
“Bauchi governor is currently in a dilemna. He doesn’t know where to go, we have Sen. Alero in Kebbi state, a former governor who won two Senatorial District on the same day Asiwaju won election, he is within our party.
“I was in Gombe state, and the governor told us that Tinubu is supporting the state with N120 billion to develop livestock in the state. If a state gets support of N120 billion, will it not gavanise its support for President Tinubu to continue to have such benefits?
“Kastina state recently launched mechanisation for 40,000 farmers, these are facts. Governor Yari said they don’t have choice than to support Asiwaju re-election because before Tinubu came, for them to move their food items to the South was like a war.
“So, when you see what Tinubu is doing in terms of giving support to the North for the development of their economy, security and giving them key appointment in his administration, his victory is sure in the North.”
He urged Nigerians not to allow opposition leaders confuse them.
“You can’t talk of coalition in a Presidential system of government, you can’t be in Labour Party and at the same time be in ADC.
“Coalition is not only strange to our political system, it is unknown and absolutely depicting a state of confusion of those who are engaging in the act.
“No serious politician will abandon a veritable, strong, competent and capable electoral machinery like APC and go and join an unknown organisation.”
With less than 30 percent of the over 93 million registered voters in Nigeria taking part in the 2023 general elections, there has been concern about the low rate of participation in the voting process in the country. Political parties, civil society organisations and international election observers have called for measures to improve the electoral system. The National Assembly is currently considering a bill to ensure that those who participate in the electoral process and therefore have no time to vote are given the opportunity. TONY AKOWE reports.
At a meeting with state Resident Electoral Commissioners in 2024, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu unveiled the report of several months of engagements with stakeholders in the nation’s electoral circle containing series of recommendations aimed at enhancing the conduct of elections in the country. The report was a follow up to an earlier report on the conduct of the 2023 general elections. Yakubu told the electoral umpires that from the internal and external engagements, the Commission identified 142 recommendations dealing with the general state of preparedness, voter management, voter education and public communication, political parties and candidate management, electoral operations and logistics management, election officials and personnel, partnership and collaboration, monitoring and supervision, election technology, voting and result management, election security, electoral offences and the electoral legal framework. One of the recommendations in the report is the issue of early/special voting for millions of Nigerians who do not vote at the moment on account of the roles they play during elections such as INEC officials, security personnel, ad hoc staff, observers and journalists who are deployed outside the places where they registered to vote. There is also recommendations in support of diaspora voting.
The commission is not unmindful of the fact that several Nigerians are unable to vote either because they have not collected their Permanent Voters card, misplace such or relocated from the where they registered. In view of this, the Commission, according to Prof. Yakubu is considering the use of the Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVC) as the sole means of identification for voter accreditation on Election Day should be reviewed. He said “those who already have the PVCs can still use them to vote, but going forward, computer-generated slips issued to the voter or even downloaded from the Commission’s website will suffice for voter accreditation. This will not only save cost, it will also eliminate the issues around the collection of PVCs and the diabolical practice of buying up the cards from voters in order to disenfranchise them”.
In response to the clamour for early voting by eligible Nigerians who are often engaged in election duties, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua representing Katsina central sponsored a bill which has scaled second reading in the Senate. The bill seeks to amend two major sections of the Electoral Act, 2022 to make room for these categories of voters, while also separating them from other regular voters. First, it seeks to amend section 10 which deals with continuous voter registration of the Act by introducing a new subsection 7 which states that “a copy of the list of registered early voters shall be given to all political parties ahead of the early voting date”. The bill also seeks to amend section 44 by providing comprehensively the procedure that enhance the voting of these categories of persons. Section 44 provide for the notice of polls.
The amendments being sought seeks to set aside a specific date for the conduct of early voting which shall be not later than 14 before the date appointed by the Commission for an election. It also state that “a person shall not vote as an early voter unless the person’s is a registered voter whose name appears on the early voters list compiled by the Commission”. It said further that “on the appointed early voting date, eligible voters shall cast their votes ahead of the election under a procedure to be determined by the Commission.” It list persons eligible for a pre-poll voting to include security personnel; (b) officials of the Commission; (c) Accredited domestic observers; (d) accredited journalists; and (e) ad-hoc staff of the Commission. However, the new subsection also states that “subject to the provisions of this section, a duly registered voter is entitled to participate in the early voting ahead of the official date of election under this Act, if: (a) the voter has, in accordance with the provisions of this section, applied to the Commission for early voting; (b) the voter’s name is on the register of voters issued by the Commission under this Act; (c) the voter is accredited by the Commission and will be deployed for election day duties; and (d) the voter’s name is on the early voters list compiled by the Commission”. It also provide that a person who is eligible to be registered as an early voter shall make an application set out in the form prescribed by the Commission. The proposed amendment provides that anyone who will be engaged in electoral duty, who is a registered voter must first apply to the commission to be included in the list of those to participate in the early poll as a result of being involved in election duty on the date fixed for the general election. It states that “an application under sub-section (6) shall be made to the Electoral Officer of the applicant’s Local Government, not later than 30 days before the day scheduled for early voting and accompanied by a declaration in writing by the applicant and such other documentation as may be required by the Commission, stating, or proving that the applicant is – (a) registered at a polling unit in the local government where the application is made; and (b) duly engaged on election duties on the date appointed for general voting at the election in question”. It said further that “an Electoral Officer shall, on receipt of an application under subsection (2) of this section, transmit the application to the Resident Electoral Commissioner who shall, upon being satisfied with the application and in line with the internal procedure of the Commission – alter the registration details of the applicant on the early voters list”. It also said that “person shall not vote as an early voter unless that person’s name appears on the early voters list”, while “a person whose name is entered on the early voter’s list under this section shall vote at a voting centre specified by the Commission on the date specified for early voting in line with this Act”.
Interestingly, the proposed amendment states that “a person whose name is on the early voter’s list shall not vote on the official day scheduled for the respective election”, adding that the “commission shall compile, maintain and keep the early voter’s list for each election in both an electronic format in its central database and in hard-copy printed format”, and “shall establish voting centres at every ward (registration area) to be used as early voting centre”.
When passed the law will require the commission, not later than 7 days before the date fixed for early voting, publish a notice specifying the date fixed for the early voting, persons entitled to vote; and the location of the voting centre, while those who are qualified to participate in the early voting will be required to vote at centres so designated by the Commission. All the procedures for such elections, such accreditation, voting, sorting of ballots, and other voting procedures at early voting shall be according to the procedure of other elections, with a proviso that “votes from early voting shall be counted and collated on the official election day along with the votes for respective polling units on the election day”. Also, it states that early voting under this section is applicable to all elections under this Act.”
The bill also seeks to alter the provisions of section 56 which deals with voting at the appropriate polling unit by inserting the clause “No person shall be permitted to vote at any polling unit other than the one to which he or she is allotted with the exemption of voters voting during the early voting under this Act”.
Defending his bill before the Senate, Senator Yar’adua said it will address the “disenfranchisement’ of eligible voters who by the nature of their jobs are constrained from exercising their civic responsibility of casting their ballots during general elections. The Katsina Senator listed INEC staff engaged in election duties, ad-hoc staff, the security personnel, journalists, observers and others who work on election day and saddled with the sacred duty to uphold the integrity of the process, but are effectively denied the right to vote because they are deployed to polling units far from where they registered among the eligible but disenfranchised the proposed amendment would enfranchise. He said “over 1 million ad-hoc staff, 310,973 police personnel, 93,495 military and Department of State Service (DSS) personnel, 51,000 personnel from the National Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), 21,000 from the Federal Road Safety Corps, 11,336 from the Nigeria Correctional Service, 9,447 from the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency and 350 personnel from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and an undisclosed number of journalists who were actively engaged in election activities were disenfranchised. Similarly, the Independent National Electoral Commission reported that 144,800 observers were deployed by 196 national and domestic organisations, with the implication that those citizens were also unable to vote. This is in addition to journalists and others involved in elections in various capacities.” He stressed that “the number of those excluded from voting could change the outcomes of election results. The figures highlighted above make this bill a necessity to address the ‘disenfranchisement’ of eligible voters. As lawmakers, it is our duty to ensure that every Nigerian citizen, regardless of their profession or duty on Election Day, has the opportunity to participate fully in the electoral process. Incorporating early voting in our electoral legal framework shall strengthen universal adult suffrage as our Constitution guarantees every eligible Nigerian the right to vote”. Yar’Adua said that when the numbers are put together and added to the number of election observers, it would be enough to determine the outcome of an election. He maintained that the wide disenfranchisement raised concerns given the declining voter turnout saying that in 2015, voter turnout was 4.7 per cent, in 2019 it dropped 34.7 per cent and in 2023, 27. 3 per cent. “To allow early voting for military personnel , it is not only a matter of fairness, it is a necessary step to restore confidence, engage young Nigerians and uphold the principle that says those who defend our democracy should not be excluded from it.
Senator Yar’adua said further that “this Bill strengthens democratic values as democracy thrives when participation is broad, inclusive, and representative. By preventing those on election duty from voting, we are limiting the breadth of participation and undermining the very principles of democracy.” He gave examples of African countries where early voting has gained traction to include, South Africa, Namibia, Senegal and Ghana, saying “INEC has the expertise to incorporate early voting into our electoral process, and the Electoral Act provides sufficient legal mechanisms to address any challenges that may arise. The introduction of early voting is not just about convenience; it is about strengthening our democracy, improving voter participation, reducing electoral violence, and making elections more efficient and transparent. By passing this bill, we will be taking a significant step toward a more inclusive and representative electoral system that better serves the interests of all Nigerians.”
Yar’adua has not just sponsor the bill, he has embarked on advocacy visits security agencies to canvass support for the bill since many of those who do not visit falls within that rank. One of his visit took him to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, himself, a former member of the National Assembly, having served as a member of the House of Representatives. He told the Minister that the advocacy visit centered on the landmark Early Voting Bill, which sought to enfranchise security personnel, electoral workers, and other categories of Nigerians often excluded from participating in general elections due to the nature of their national duties.
Speaking when the sponsor of the bill visited him, Tunji-Ojo said the Early Voting Bill is a necessary and overdue piece of legislation that addresses long-standing issues of voter disenfranchisement. He said “this bill is, in a way, an indictment on all of us who have passed through the National Assembly. It raises the question how did we not think of this sooner?” Citing historical examples such as the 2011 Nasarawa State gubernatorial election, where over 20,000 election-day personnel were unable to vote despite a victory margin of only 4,425 votes, the Minister called for broader discourse on other marginalized groups, including awaiting-trial inmates. He however think that those in the correctional centres should be included, saying that 70% of Nigeria’s correctional facility population are legally presumed innocent, asking “why should they be denied their constitutional right to vote?” He urged that the focus should now be on the extent to which all stakeholders are willing to go to ensure this bill is passed and implemented, stressing that “any reasonable democrat should see the necessity of this without further persuasion.”
Speaking in support of the bill, Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programs at YIAGA Africa, stressed the significance of this reform for Nigeria’s democratic process. She said “the early voting bill is a bold step towards expanding electoral participation and ensuring that those who secure our elections are not denied the right to vote. It reflects our commitment to a more inclusive democracy.”
Among the electoral amendment being sought to enhance the electoral process is the amending the law to allow Nigerians in the diaspora to cast their votes as done in other developed nations like the United States of America. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen is one of those pushing for this reform in the electoral system.
Just like the early voting bill, the diaspora voting bill sponsored by the Speaker seeks to enhance the voting rights of Nigerians and increasing electoral participation.
The bill which received overwhelming support at second reading on the floor of the house is co-sponsored by Sadiq Ango Abdullahi who led the debate for the second reading. According to Abdullahi, the bill seeks to amend section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants citizens the fundamental right of freedom of expression and opinion. When the bill is passed, all Nigerians, irrespective of their location anywhere in the world will be given right and freedom to express themselves in our country’s general election”. The Kaduna Lawmaker is of the view that since Nigerians abroad meet their financial obligations to the country through remittances, it is fair and proper that they are given the right to carry out their civic responsibility of expressing their leadership preferences during elections. He said “It is widely believed that diaspora remittances have contributed remarkably to the development of Nigeria. Nigerians in diaspora make considerable contribution to the Nigerian economy through huge financial inflow to the country. Sadly, existing laws in Nigeria have not made any provision granting voting rights to Nigerians in diaspora. Consequently, the agitation for voting rights for Nigerian in diaspora has continued to gain momentum. It is a practice that allows for holistic inclusiveness in a democratic society,” he said. The major amendments include guaranteeing
The voting rights of Nigerian citizens living outside Nigeria. The section provides that elections to be conducted under this Act if passed shall include elections which the Commission is empowered by law. It will however will not invalidate existing laws in Nigeria. It only provides a platform for Nigerians in diaspora to participate in elections conducted in Nigeria. He added that the benefit of such a law if passed will be that it allows Nigerians in their respective countries of residence to vote in Nigerian general elections without the rigors and logistic challenges of travelling to Nigeria to exercise their voting rights among others. He said the purpose of the new provisions is “to reduce corruption, contract abandonment, waste of resources and generally to forestall a situation where contractors treat government contracts with levity and disdain to the detriment of the society.”
With high-profile defections and growing federal influence under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is steadily dismantling the People’s Democratic Party’s long-standing dominance in the Southsouth geo-political zone, leaving Rivers and Bayelsa as the party’s last bastion. Southsouth Bureau Chief MIKE ODIEGWU reports.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is undergoing a political collapse in the South-south, a region that was once its strongest base. The All Progressives Congress (APC), through strategic alliances, federal influence and Tinubu’s charisma, is reshaping the region’s political map.
At the formative stage of the APC found it extremely difficult to make an inroad into the South-south. The zone treated the party like a leper and avoided any close relationship with it. It was blackmailed into submission, with most people describing it as a Hausa-Fulani or a Boko Haram party. Those who mustered the courage to join the party and to become its foot soldiers in the region were dismissed as betrayers and conspirators.
Such a negative reaction towards the APC was understandable, given that the then-President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, is from Bayelsa State, in the South-south, and was seeking re-election on the platform of the PDP. So, the region seemed united to deliver Jonathan.
Besides, the zone had been the stronghold of the PDP since the return to civil rule in 1999. The party easily secured the support of the people in presidential, governorship and all elections in the South-south states of Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers.
However, Edo broke its covenant with the PDP in 2008 when Comrade Adams Oshiomhole disrupted the political unity in the zone and bulldozed his way into power on the platform of the Action Congress (AC). He repeated the same feat when he secured his re-election four years later.
Nevertheless, Edo State returned to the PDP fold in 2020, following the defection of the then-incumbent Godwin Obaseki, after he fell out with Oshiomhole. With the defections of Obaseki and his subsequent victory in that year’s off-cycle governorship in the South-south state, the zone was once again unified under the umbrella party.
From Edo, the battleground in the political contest between the PDP and the APC shifted to Bayelsa State. In the 2019 governorship election in Bayelsa, there was an electoral revolution against the then-Governor Seriake Dickson and his anointed candidate in the PDP, Douye Diri. The APC, which fielded Chief David Lyon in the election, resoundingly defeated the PDP.
However, the APC victory was short-lived, as PDP bounced back, following a Supreme Court judgment on the eve of the inauguration of Lyon as governor. The judgment, which took everyone by surprise, restored the PDP as the dominant party in Bayelsa and the South-south zone in general.
It took the defection of the then Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, for the APC to gain a foothold in the South-south region in 2021. Ayade hinged his decision to join the party on the incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari’s attributes. Others say it was hinged on the governor’s realisation that Cross River, having lost its oil wells, needed to embrace the government at the centre.
With the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu two years ago, the APC has become more dominant in the southern parts of the country, including states that used to be the stronghold of the PDP. For instance, the APC dealt a heavy blow to the PDP’s bid to retain Edo State in last year’s off-cycle governorship election, with the victory of Monday Okpebholo of the APC over Asue Ighodalo of the PDP.
Following the victory in Edo State, the APC took control of two out of the five states in the zone, leaving PDP with Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta states.
Tinubu’s politics of inclusivity and stakeholders’ engagement recently ignited a massive political realignment in the South-south zone. The zone is gradually but swiftly moving towards political conformity under the broom party. Delta State led the upset in April 2025 following the defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the APC.
Delta’s case was revolutionary. Oborevwori moved alongside his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, members of his executive council, members of the House of Assembly, the local government chairmen and the state executive committee of the PDP. The tsunami uprooted the PDP structures in Delta and nailed the party’s coffin in the state.
The injury it inflicted dealt a devastating blow to the PDP. PDP leaders outside the zone were visibly shaken and wondered how they could lose a state that acted as its major cash cow and produced its vice presidential candidate in the last general election. It came as a shock to many that Okowa, who was the running mate to the party’s presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, was in a hurry to go.
Oborevwori told the gathering during the reception organised to welcome him to the broom family that he was overwhelmed by the love of President Tinubu and that the movement to the APC was meant to support his re-election in 2027.
His words: “What you have seen here today is a movement, not a defection. We have consulted stakeholders at all levels. Mr. President has shown us love. We cannot face him in 2027 to work against him. The love is organic.”
Okowa also said: “This bold decision is in the best interest of our people. It was not about me or the governor, but the fact that there is a need for us to connect to Abuja. This is a bold, patriotic and well-intentioned move.”
While PDP was still battling to decode the Delta State reality, Akwa Ibom, another of its traditional strongholds, collapsed helplessly into the APC. The Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, led his deputy, the majority of the state executive council, members of the state House of Assembly, federal lawmakers and local government chairmen to the APC on June 7, 2025.
Giving reasons why he moved the entire state governance structure to the APC, Eno said the move was motivated by “enlightened state interest predicated on the need to align our state with the centre to attract more federal presence.”
The governor said Tinubu’s track record of achievements inspired him to join the broom party. He described his defection as a gift to Tinubu, adding that he had been an admirer of the President since his days as the Lagos State governor.
He said: “President Tinubu has possible in recent history of the Nation faced the most daunting economic challenges of any leader. With boldness and deep convictions, he has faced these challenging moments head-on and come up with solutions that, though in the immediate aftermath are tough for Nigerians, are beginning to have long-lasting and sustainable effects.
“It is a known fact that I have never hidden my admiration for the President and his patriotic devotion to national renewal, which he is engendering today. This movement falling on a day that we mark Sallah is our gift to our President, and it has a divine connotation.”
With Delta and Akwa Ibom formerly moving to the APC, all eyes are on Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State to toe a similar path. Diri is reportedly under pressure to join the progressives. If he failed to move Bayelsa to the APC, the only homogeneous Ijaw state would perhaps become a political orphan in the zone, with the responsibility of shouldering the needs of a sinking party.
The governor is said to be in a dilemma, following signals that some critical PDP stakeholders, especially his predecessor and Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, are not interested in joining him in the APC. Dickson has been openly criticising President Tinubu, predicating his angst on the emergency rule in Rivers State and indirectly telling Diri that he would have nothing to do with the APC. Apart from Dickson, other federal lawmakers and PDP leaders loyal to Dickson are reportedly not disposed to defecting to the APC.
Those who want the movement, however, are telling Diri to take Bayelsa to the centre either with or without Dickson, using Akwa Ibom as a case study where the governor opted for defection without his predecessor, Emmanuel Udom, and other PDP leaders.
Undoubtedly, Diri has been an admirer of Tinubu and his leadership style. He recently described the president as the grandmaster of collaboration. He praised the President for initiating the construction of a coastal road designed to link Lagos to coastal states.
Besides, Bayelsa is receiving unusual attention from the Federal Government under Tinubu; a similar partnership that Dickson could not galvanise when he was a governor, despite having Dr Goodluck Jonathan, who hails from Bayelsa, as the president.
There are insinuations that Diri has entered into a political covenant with the centre to support Tinubu by moving to the APC in exchange for his re-election. It was gathered that the second term deal he brokered with notable leaders of the APC was the reason the party threw Chief Timipre Sylva, its governorship candidate, under the bus. Therefore, all eyes are on him to fulfil his side of the bargain.
Apart from political agreement, some stakeholders maintain that the survival of Bayelsa and its development depend on moving the state to the party at the centre. As part of the political unification, the Delta State governor and his predecessor recently led a high-powered delegation to Diri in Bayelsa and held discussions behind closed doors. They were said to have gone to the state to woo Diri, their brother, to the APC.
A former President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, shares the same sentiment. He called on Diri and Dickson to move Bayelsa to the APC. Eradiri, a Commissioner for Youths and later Environment, told the two political leaders that there is no better time than now to move the Ijaw nation into the APC.
He insisted that the Ijaw would gain nothing by being in opposition to the administration of President Tinubu, but would only be left to wallow in the political wilderness. He appealed to Diri and Dickson to forego personal interest and see the bigger picture, insisting that their joining the APC would be for the overall interest of the Ijaw nation.
Eradiri said, “The time for political realignment for the Ijaw Nation is now. The current political equation in Nigeria presently will alienate the Ijaw race if we don’t re-strategise immediately and take a decision to join the ruling party. I am calling on Senator Seriake Dickson and Governor Douye Diri to join the APC now to guarantee the Ijaw nation a place in decision-making at the centre.”
Apart from Bayelsa, Rivers State has been partially moved to the APC and poses no threat to Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. The entire PDP structure is controlled by Nyesom Wike, the immediate past governor, who is currently serving as a minister in Tinubu’s administration.
As part of the deal to resolve the political crisis that led to the ongoing emergency rule in the state, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who is currently suspended, is weighing the options of joining the APC. Stakeholders believe that even with the current political situation in Rivers, the state is already in the APC’s bag.
Dr. Josef Onoh, the former southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition led by opposition heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, is not the primary threat to his re-election bid.
He cautioned the real danger against Tinubu’s 2027 reelection bid lies within largely non-performing cabinet members.
He alleged many of the Ministers have personal ambitions and do not champion the administration’s achievements jeopardising Tinubu’s chances in 2027.
He argued the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike stands out and has consistently and publicly defended President Tinubu against the ADC coalition’s aggressive campaign.
Wike un a recent a recent thanksgiving service at St. James’ Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja, dismissed the coalition’s motives, accusing its leaders of pursuing personal gain rather than national interest.
He challenged the credibility of the opposition leaders, stating that they want to rescue their stomach instead of Nigeria. Wike used the opportunity to highlight Tinubu’s achievements, such as the rehabilitation of the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre and the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Structure.
“Wike’s vocal defense stands in stark contrast to the deafening silence from other ministers. I find it alarming that at a time when the opposition is mobilizing under the ADC banner, the majority of Tinubu’s cabinet members remain mute, failing to counter the coalition’s narrative or promote the administration’s successes.
“This lack of unity and loyalty within the cabinet can erode public confidence. Also poor ministerial performance is a liability for 2027,” Onoh warned
The Tinubu’s 2023 campaign spokesman in the South East has repeatedly criticised what he described as the underwhelming performance of many ministers, arguing that their inability to deliver tangible results weakens the administration’s case for re-election.
Onoh argued some of the Ministers tasked with implementing Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, have not demonstrated the capacity to mobilise grassroots support for the President’s re-election.
“Without visible achievements or a compelling narrative from the cabinet, the APC risks losing ground to the ADC coalition, which is capitalizing on public discontent to position itself as a viable alternative,” he cautioned.
“An incumbent minister has openly declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in on of the south west states, signaling a shift in focus from his ministerial duties to personal political goals. Similarly, other Ministers are reportedly eyeing governorship races or other political offices in their home states, diverting their energy from advancing Tinubu’s agenda.
“This pursuit of personal ambition, undermines the cohesion and effectiveness of the cabinet. Ministers preoccupied with their own political futures are unlikely to invest in mobilizing support for Tinubu’s re-election or promoting his administration’s achievements. This internal disarray could prove fatal in 2027, as a fragmented cabinet fails to present a united front against a determined opposition coalition.”
He emphasised that a cabinet that does not share the President’s vision is a ticking time bomb, stressing that the lack of synergy among Ministers, coupled with their failure to actively promote Tinubu’s achievements, creates a vacuum that the ADC coalition is exploiting.
Onoh argued qthat the coalition’s energy stems from the administration’s inability to effectively communicate its successes.
“For instance, Tinubu’s reforms, such as the removal of the fuel subsidy, increased state allocations, and advancements in infrastructure, have been cited as significant achievements by supporters like Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
“Yet, these milestones are rarely amplified by cabinet members or heads of agencies, leaving the public unaware of the progress made.
He warned that failure to act swiftly could affect 2027, as the opposition continues to gain traction.
Onoh further criticised heads of government agencies for their failure to promote Tinubu’s achievements.
“Agencies responsible for key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure have not effectively communicated the impact of policies such as the student loan initiative or increased oil production. This silence allows the opposition to paint a one-sided picture of failure, further fueling public discontent,” he lamented.
Onoh argued that agency heads, like ministers, must be held accountable for their role in advancing the administration’s agenda. Their failure to highlight tangible results undermines Tinubu’s re-election prospects and strengthens the ADC coalition’s narrative of a government in disarray.
According to him: “Cabinet reshuffle is not just a necessity but an urgent imperative to ensure that his team is aligned with his vision and capable of countering the opposition’s momentum. The ADC coalition, while formidable, is not Tinubu’s greatest challenge. The real danger lies in a cabinet and administration that fail to deliver, communicate, or unite behind their leader.
“Failure to do so could hand the opposition the ammunition they need to derail Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The clock is ticking, and the president must act now to secure his legacy and Nigeria’s future. Mr. President, you are a general alone, leading compromised soldiers to battle.”
