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Category: Politics

  • Fayose seeks PDP stakeholders’ support for guber ambition

    Fayose seeks PDP stakeholders’ support for guber ambition

    A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emmanuel Fayose has begun statewide grassroots familiarization tour to solicit support from party leaders for his 2026 governorship ambition.

    Fayose kicked off the tour in Ekiti Central Senatorial District, comprising five local governments: Ado, Efon, Ijero, Ekiti West and Irepodun/Ifelodun.

    Addressing party stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Fayose appealed for unity and support to defeat the All Progressives Congress in the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

    He criticised the APC-led government in the state, saying it has performed below expectations and failed to deliver on its electoral promises.

    He dismissed the wave of endorsements across the state for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid, describing them as “mere jamborees” that cannot guarantee victory for the APC.

    He claimed that the governor has not done well, and the people of Ekiti State are suffering, stressing the need for a change in government, saying that Ekiti people need the PDP in power to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

    The PDP chieftain promised to work towards building the party and taking it to its pride of place, emphasizing his commitment to the umbrella party and his incurable desire to serve the people of Ekiti.

    He said: “There is hunger and poverty in the land. People are suffering. What is coming in from the federal government as allocation is almost times four of what they used to get. There is nothing to justify what Oyebanji and the APC government have been doing with the monthly allocations that have been coming into the state.

    “There is nothing to show for all the money this government has been collecting. There is nothing to point at as development. No project has been commissioned and this is almost three years in office. Ekiti is not developing under his leadership.

    ” All they have been chorusing is four plus four which is equals to zero. We need a change of government. Ekiti people need PDP in power. The people are praying fervently for us to return to government house because when the PDP was in power the economy was far better than this”, Fayose added.

    The PDP Chairman of Ado-Ekiti Local Government Chairman, Femi Odeyemi saluted his courage to vie for the number one seat in the state.

    He said, ” For somebody to come out and say he wants to vie for the position of the governor in this situation that the PDP is, this is a very courageous step. It is only the person who strongly believes that the PDP can take over power in 2026 can come out and declare interest. We thank you for the courage.

    “We Ado people do things collectively and because of this, our support is always channelled to one person. If it is you that will bring us relief, God will help you to get there. We have endorsed you. May God help you to achieve this.

    ” Let us support him to achieve this ambition. PDP will take over power in next year’s poll. Like you all know PDP is a party that remembers the masses. When we were in power, our government prioritised the welfare of the people. We were able to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people and Ekiti State and the people prospered under the PDP.”

    The PDP Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Ademola Alade, expressed the party’s need for a unifier, saying that Fayose’s pedigree and ability to mobilize people made him a suitable candidate.

    He said, “It is no doubt that our party is in shambles right now. Our party is not well fitted right now from the national to the ward levels. And that is why at this point in time we need a unifier. We need somebody who can bring people together. We need somebody who can mobilise well for the party and we believe you are fit to come into this shoe.

    ” You are not the only one contesting, but just that we have preference for you because you are a son of the soil. It is on that note that we have a special love for you. but you need to work for this party.

    “The era of people selling us out is gone. We struggled to be here. All our people here struggled to be on these seats today and we don’t want to witness the last experience. The last experience was not palatable for us at all. We don’t want people that will trade off this party like it happened the other time.

    ” We know you have pedigree, so,,we are counting on you so that people like you can salvage this party. We want you to do more to promote activities that can bring more people into this party and we believe you are serious about it”, he added

  • Presidency to ADC coalition: forget 2027

    Presidency to ADC coalition: forget 2027

    Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare has cautioned politicians coalescing under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with the intention of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 to abandon their aspirations and prepare for 2031 instead.

    Speaking in Abuja on Saturday, Dare dismissed the emerging opposition bloc as a collection of “disgruntled politicians” driven by “avarice ambition” rather than national interest or genuine concern for justice.

    “The Presidency already rests with the region rightfully due. And that’s where it will be till 2031,” he said, insisting Tinubu remains firmly in control, with his democratic credentials and governance record unmatched by any member of the new coalition.

    Dare argued that the politicians rallying around the ADC were not motivated by any desire to correct injustice in the political system, as they claim, but a selfish desire to access public funds.

    “There is no injustice to redress—only avarice ambition to satisfy the cravings of a few for the control of the National treasury,” he stated.

    The coalition of opposition politicians has in recent weeks been positioning the ADC as a platform to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next presidential election. 

    But Dare was emphatic that such a move would not replicate the success of the APC’s 2015 victory, describing the new alliance as lacking the discipline and national purpose that powered the APC merger over a decade ago.

    Read Also: APC dismisses ADC coalition self-obsessed merchants of vendetta

    “In 2013, the merger that birthed the APC was driven by selflessness, national interest, and strategic discipline. The leaders at the time were willing to set aside personal ambitions for the greater good. 

    “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite commanding the loyalty of several sitting Governors, chose to wait. He bided his time, played the long game, and focused on building a viable political platform,” he explained.

    Highlighting Tinubu’s political strength, Dare added: “He had never lost an election, and he didn’t have to force his way in. 

    “Today, no one in this coalition commands that kind of loyalty or trust. Not one of them could genuinely unite a ward, let alone a country. No one comes close to parading the democratic credentials of President Bola Tinubu.”

    The Presidency earlier this week dismissed the opposition’s adoption of the ADC, describing the move as a poor imitation of the historic 2013 APC merger. 

  • Aregbesola urges ADC supporters to focus on facts, not insults

    Aregbesola urges ADC supporters to focus on facts, not insults

    Interim national secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has called on party supporters to avoid insults and attacks against members of the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    He urged them instead to challenge opponents with facts and focus on real issues affecting Nigerians.

    Aregbesola issued the advice via a statement on his social media platforms following his arrival in Lagos where members received him. 

    “I sincerely thank our supporters and members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) who came out to receive me on my arrival in Lagos,” Aregbesola wrote.

    He cautioned that the task ahead was significant and must be approached with civility and substance, especially as the ADC aims to unseat the Tinubu-led APC in the 2027 general elections.

    Read Also: Mark, Aregbesola takeover of ADC sparks chairmen’s anger

    “We do not need to fight, insult, or attack anyone. When others resort to abuse or name-calling, we must rise above it. Instead, ask them one simple question: Are Nigerians better off today than they were before?

    “Challenge them with facts — on food inflation, the economy, the rising cost of living, and the deepening poverty affecting millions.”

    “Let our debates remain focused on the issues that matter. Articulate our position clearly and confidently. Explain why our new political home, the ADC, represents a credible and necessary alternative for Nigeria’s progress and long-term sustainability.”

  • Drama as Ibibios oppose creation of Obolo State

    Drama as Ibibios oppose creation of Obolo State

    The Ibibios have opposed the demand for the creation of an Obolo State from Akwa Ibom state, saying they will not concede any part of their land occupied by the Obolo people.

    This was the position of the Ifim Ibom Ibibio, the highest traditional leadership institution in Akwa Ibom, during the public hearing on the review of the 1999 constitution.

    The public hearing on the amendment of the 1999 Constitution for the South south zone was declared open on Friday at Ikot Ekpene by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    The memorandum was presented by Dr. Samuel Udonsak, the President-General of Ekid People’s Union on behalf of the Ifim Ibom Ibibio. The Ibibios are the largest ethnic group in the state.

    Udonsak stated that whereas the Ibibios are not opposed to the creation of new states  in the country, the Obolo people in Ibeno and Eastern Obolo who are ‘squatters’ on Ibibio lands do not have any right to carve out any portion to create a state of their own.

    He said: “In the current constitutional amendment process/exercise, Ifim Ibom Ibibio notes that Nigerian people have made requests to the National Assembly for the creation of 31 additional (new) States across the six geopolitical zones of the country. 

    “As shown in the public hearing invitation document recently published by the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, we know and note in particular that there is a request for the creation of Obolo State from the present Akwa Ibom State and Rivers State of South-South Nigeria. 

    “The Obolo people in Akwa Ibom State seeking a separate State of their own, currently live in Eastern Obolo Local Government Area (LGA), one of the 31 LGAs in the State, together with the Ibibio people (in 16 LGAs), the Annang people (in 8 LGAs), the Oro people (in 5 LGAs), and the Ibeno people (in one LGA).

    “As earlier precisely indicated in Subsection 1.1 above, Ifim Ibom Ibibio recognizes and respects the right of the Obolo people currently living in Eastern Obolo LGA of Akwa Ibom State, to seek a geopolitical entity (a State) of their own.

    “Ifim Ibom Ibibio, however, firmly holds the position that no part, no inch of Ibibio land, in any of the16 Ibibio LGAs shall be excised or carved out to create Obolo State, or any other State for that matter, which is not formally, legitimately and collectively demanded by Ibibio people, the owners of the ancestral lands they occupy”.

    He stated further: “For the clarity of the matter, it should be noted that the following 16 of the 31 LGAs of Akwa Ibom State, as listed in the FIRST SCHEDULE (SECTION 3) PART 1 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, are Ibibio LGAs: Eket, Esit Eket, Etinan, Ibesikpo Asutan, Ibiono Ibom, Ikono, Ikot Abasi, Ini, Itu, MkpatEnin, Nsit Atai, Nsit Ibom, Nsit Ubium, Onna, Uruan and Uyo.

    “The ancestral/authentic boundaries of these LGAs are clearly demarcated and delineated in the APPROVED, OFFICIAL, AND GAZETTED (APRIL 27, 2023) MAP OF AKWA IBOM STATE.

    “In sum, the position of Ifim Ibom Ibibio and all Ibibio people at large, home and in the diaspora, is that no village, no section, no part, no inch of any of these Ibibio LGAs shall be made part of the proposed Obolo State, or any other State. 

    Rad Also: Calabar fattening room: A tradition under threat

    “As evident from established historical facts, all the parcels of land currently occupied by the Obolo people in the Eastern Obolo LGA of Akwa Ibom State were leased to their forebears by the Ibibio people on a royalty-paying basis.

    “As a people, the Ibibio have been living in harmony with their kith and kin from the Annang, Oro, Ibeno, and Obolo ethnic extractions in Akwa Ibom State. 

    “Ifim Ibom Ibibio and Ibibio people at large, have no problem with the request of their Obolo brothers and sisters for the creation of Obolo State for their separate identity. 

    “However, the Ibibio are totally opposed to the annexture of any part, any inch of Ibibio land to the proposed Obolo State. This is our firm conclusion and position on the matter”, Udonsak stated in the memorandum.

    However, the Obolo people in their presentation at the public hearing insisted on a state of their own saying they have been marginalised in the present Akwa Ibom State.

  • Tinubu unmatched influence, over 140 political heavyweights join APC without a single election

    Tinubu unmatched influence, over 140 political heavyweights join APC without a single election

    By Bamidele Atoyebi, Comrade

    Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, Nigeria’s political map has changed in powerful and historic ways. In under two years and without holding a single national election, over 140 elected politicians have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    They include governors, senators, and members of the House of Representatives, state lawmakers, and local government chairmen. Most of these politicians were elected under opposition platforms, but they have now aligned themselves with President Tinubu’s leadership and vision for the country.

    This wave of support is not a coincidence. It is a direct result of President Tinubu’s performance, maturity, and inclusive style of leadership. His economic reforms, appointments, stabilising policies, and ability to carry people along have convinced politicians across party lines that the APC is where progress lives.

    In Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, elected under the PDP in 2023, made headlines when he defected to the APC in April 2025. Soon after, Speaker Emomotimi Guwor and 21 members of the Delta State House of Assembly joined him. Then, six PDP House of Representatives members from the state followed: Victor Nwokolo, Julius Pondi, Thomas Ereyitomi, Nicholas Mutu, Ukodhiko Jonathan, and Nnamdi Ezechi. They all said they were inspired by President Tinubu’s leadership and wanted to support the national agenda.

    In Edo State, after the APC won the 2024 governorship election, another wave followed. Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, along with two PDP lawmakers, Sunny Ifada and Yekini Idaiye, moved to the APC. In addition, 17 local government chairmen also dumped the PDP for the APC. Earlier in 2024, Edosa Enowoghoma of Ovia South-West and Dickson Ahonsi of Owan West had already switched, together with several councillors.

    In Akwa Ibom, momentum is building steadily. Two senators, Ekong Sampson and Aniekan Bassey, have already defected to the APC. Though Governor Umo Eno remained in the PDP until recently, he formally joined the APC in June 2025. His defection was quickly followed by 24 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, and earlier, seven notable names had already crossed over: Hon. Unyime Idem, Hon. Esin Etim, Hon. Ekpo Asuquo, Hon. Uduak Odudoh, Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, Hon. Okon Bassey, and Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong, from both PDP and YPP. Their decisions confirm that APC’s growth under Tinubu is not just at the top, it’s spreading to grassroots lawmakers as well.

    The National Assembly has also felt the Tinubu effect. In the Senate, APC’s numbers grew from 59 to 69, with defectors including Ned Nwoko (Delta North), Ekong Sampson and Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom), Shehu Sani (Kaduna Central), Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Garba Maidoki (all from Kebbi), Neda Imasuen (Edo South, formerly Labour Party), and Kawu Sumaila (Kano South, formerly NNPP). These moves give the APC even greater control in the Senate and show how Tinubu’s steady hands are winning converts even at the highest levels.

    In the House of Representatives, 30 members have moved to the APC under Tinubu’s watch. Apart from the Delta group, notable defectors include Mark Obetta and Denis Nnamdi from Enugu (Labour Party); Abubakar Aliyu, Yusuf Majigiri, Garba Koko, Jallo Hussaini Mohammed, and Abdullahi Balarabe from Katsina and Kebbi; Kabiru Hassan Rurum and Sani Abdullahi from Kano (formerly NNPP); Oluwole Oke from Osun (PDP); Amos Magaji and Adamu Tanko from the North Central zone; and Alfred Ajang from Plateau. Others include Idris Salman (Kogi), Chris Nkwonta (Abia), Sulaiman Gummi (Zamfara), and a bloc of Labour Party lawmakers, Chinedu Okere, Mathew Donatus, Bassey Akiba, and Esosa Iyawe, who cited internal disarray as the reason for joining the APC. These lawmakers are from all zones, north, south, east, and west, yet now united under one banner: President Tinubu’s APC.

    Read Also: Group faults Amaechi over comments on Tinubu’s govt

    In Rivers State, 27 PDP lawmakers in the State House of Assembly defected to the APC in December 2023. While court cases are still pending, the political impact has already been made. Their move, like many others, was seen as a vote of confidence in the president’s ability to lead Nigeria forward.

    Beyond the defections, there is something deeper going on. Many governors have found common ground with Tinubu because of the quiet but steady reforms he’s implementing. His approach to restructuring, especially financial devolution, empowering state governments and even local councils. For the first time in years, governors are seeing meaningful improvements in their state finances. This is no longer just politics; it’s practical. Those who want governors to oppose the president must now do more than make noise because Tinubu’s reforms are working, and state leaders can see the impact with their own eyes.

    Of course, personal interest always plays a role in politics. But even if we removed self-interest entirely, the reality is this: if decisions were made purely on the economic well-being of states, nearly all 36 governors would stand behind President Tinubu. The few who hesitate do so not because of a lack of results, but because of personal ambitions.

    Some critics have tried to describe this mass realignment as dangerous for democracy, but in truth, it is a vote of confidence in performance. These politicians are not being forced; they are freely choosing to join a government that is delivering. Tinubu’s leadership is not about noise; it is about results. His ability to carry people along, whether or not they hold appointments, has created a broad base of loyalty across all regions and all levels of government.

    What makes this movement historic is the scale and speed. In Nigeria’s political history, no president has recorded this level of support from opposition figures without an election. Under former President Jonathan, defections happened before the 2015 elections. Under Obasanjo and Buhari, movements came slowly and often during second terms. But under Tinubu, over 140 elected officials from across the country have joined the APC in less than two years. That has never happened before.

    It is clear: people are not just watching, they are moving. They are moving toward a leader who is focused, bold, and delivers results. As 2027 approaches, the message is loud. Nigeria is standing behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    –  Bamidele Atoyebi, the Convenor of the BAT Ideological Group, engages in accountability and policy monitoring while also serving as a social worker, criminologist, maritime administrator, and philanthropist. He sent this message from Abuja.

  • Don’t take new ADC for granted, Rep member, Abejide warns APC

    Don’t take new ADC for granted, Rep member, Abejide warns APC

    The only federal lawmaker elected under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Leke Abejide, has cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against underestimating the new coalition taking control of the ADC, describing the group as a formidable political force.

    Abejide, a staunch supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hinted at his likely defection to the APC, stating that the politicians behind the ADC takeover are no pushovers and could pose serious challenges to the ruling party.

    Speaking during a television interview, the Kogi lawmaker and Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise acknowledged his awareness of the planned realignment within the ADC and the resignation of the party’s former national chairman, Chief Ralph Nwosu.

    He noted that the coalition members are within their rights to associate and join any party of their choice.

    He said, “They can cause a headache for APC, and I advise that they are not taken for granted. They will have members in the National and State Assemblies, and possibly governors. But they cannot win the presidency.”

    Abejide added that President Tinubu remains politically strategic and resilient, citing the obstacles he overcame—such as fuel scarcity and the naira redesign—during the last election.

    “The Asiwaju, you see, is a master of the game… He won despite all odds. Now that he has control of the system, do you think he will lose? It’s unlikely. However, I am not saying they won’t make an impact—they will—but not enough to win the presidency,” he said.

    He urged the APC to treat the coalition seriously and to accelerate ongoing reforms, including addressing outstanding payments to contractors working for the Nigerian people.

    “The number of states APC controls now is much more than any party in Nigeria. ADC have no governor, no senator except those who might decamp soon. These people will be working hard not to fail because if they fail, they will face the Consequences. The President, the leaders of the APC and all those supporting the president should not go to sleep.

    Those People you saw are no lightweight politicians. Except for the fact that they cannot agree because most of them want to be president. So, the issue of candidacy will be the problem.

    “People have said Obi will not like to play the second fiddle, and so would want to contest the presidency, and that might be a problem. Once this coalition collapses, that is the end. The coalition is a blessing in disguise for the APC.

    Read Also: We’ll challenge ADC takeover in court, Kachikwu vows

    “The PDP governors are working to put the party together, and this is another party coming up strong, and what happened in 2023 might likely happen in 2027 because the opposition will be fragmented. I want this coalition to continue while the PDP puts their House in order so that this election will be smooth”.

    “I have said it before that the ADC will soon become the second largest party in Nigeria because it will consume the PDP. But the party cannot win the election because it is about the person and not the party. If APC had fielded another for the election in 2023, they would have lost the election.”

    He said, “I am the only elected lawmaker at the federal level and at the state Assembly, I am a member. I am the National Leader of the party, and in 2023, I brought another lawmaker to the federal level.

    “I don’t think Dumebi himself is a member of this party. He joined us in 2023, and I came to know him when they came back from a convention where they were elected as the presidential candidate, and the former national chairman brought him to my house. I told him then that I cannot deceive you. I am for Asiwaju, and I cannot support you. I will support Asiwaju

    “That was the first time I knew him as a party member. I have been at this party since 2018, and I am the face of ADC in Nigeria. If you speak of ADC, it is only existing in Kogi State.

    “Like the president said, there is freedom of Association. I can decide to go to APC tomorrow, and nobody can stop me. It is their right to come to ADC, and for the national chairman who resigned, it is his right. He can resign and go anywhere. But for me, that coalition is not going to end anywhere.

    “People we never expected to come to APC are now coming to APC. So, don’t be surprised if I decide to move. I may decide tomorrow to move because those coming in have never played real politics, and I don’t think we have anything in common.

    “Those we have things in common are in APC. The President, chief of staff to the President, Hon Faleke, are my people, my leaders.  You see Dumebi fighting. What is he fighting for when you cannot stop anybody from associating? Let me tell you something. I am the financier of the party.

    “This same Dumebi did a lot of things against me when I was contesting the governorship of my state. He gathered people not known in the party to stop me from getting the ticket, and for the National chairman to be removed. I told them, this man founded this party and we met him there. We negotiated with him to take the party to the states, and so, you cannot drive him out.

    “He gathered some people and went to court to say they did not hold a convention. The matter has been in the Supreme Court, and they just withdrew the case from the Supreme Court”.

    On whether he was carried along in the affairs leading to the takeover of the party, he said

    “Ralph Nwosu tried to speak with me and there I nothing they did not do to get me to attend their meeting. But I did not because I don’t believe in it. Why should I put my head into something that I know is not going to work?

    “But all of us in ADC are not on board with the coalition. I am not on board, even as the face of ADC. Many of the state chairmen are ready to move to the APC, and you will see this in the next few days.

    “The Chief of Staff to the President and Hon. Faleke are my direct leaders. So, you should know where I belong already. Even in the 2023elections, Ralph Nwosu supported the Labour Party, while my supporters and I, including the National Secretary, supported Asiwaju. We have always had a simple understanding and never fought over anything. He knows my intentions, and that is why he does not disturb me, and I don’t disturb him.

    “In fairness to them, they carried me along in all their discussions, but I told them I don’t want to be part of it. I was aware of all the plans since last year. Everybody has their plan, and mine will be clearer in the next two weeks.

    In Nigeria, all the parties are the same, but the programmes are different. It is not about the panties, but the individuals. The logo of the ADC is easy to identify on the ballot paper.

  • ADC: We support coalition politics, not party hijack — State leaders

    ADC: We support coalition politics, not party hijack — State leaders

    …demand transparency, grassroots involvement

    Opposition is intensifying against the unilateral move by the Ralph Nwosu faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to hand over the party’s leadership to a coalition led by former Senate President David Mark, as State leaders denounced the move as a brazen hijack of the party.

    They faulted the controversial coalition deal, which they say was executed without the knowledge, consent, or involvement of the party’s elected executives and grassroots structures.

    At a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Dr. Musa Isa Matara, the National Publicity Secretary of the Party, alongside several State and Zonal Chairmen, Secretaries, youth and women leaders, including Dr. Etimbuk Umoh, Acting Chairman of Akwa Ibom; Hon. Alakubaju Williams, Chairman of Nasarawa State; Musa Usman, Chairman of Niger State; Abubakar Ibrahim, Secretary of Kwara State; Comrade Stephen Baba Shaidu, North Central Youth Leader; Peter Sunday, Youth Leader of Benue State, clarified that they were not opposed to new members joining the party through a coalition.

    However, they strongly objected to what they described as the flawed and non-inclusive process that accompanied the recent developments.

    They argued that excluding the party’s grassroots structures contradicts the core intentions of the Sen. David Mark-led coalition, as those at the base of the party were not carried along in the decision-making process.

    They also questioned the legitimacy of the purported resignation of the entire party’s executive committee, describing it as a development that should prompt serious reflection among Nigerians.

    “The purpose of this gathering is not to condemn the idea of coalition. Coalitions can strengthen democracy. But the process must be transparent and must carry along the party’s structures from polling units to the national level. That was not done here,” Matara said.

    He stated clearly that the ADC remains an active political party with full structures across the country and that no executive member has resigned as claimed by coalition supporters.

    “We built this party with our own hands, using our resources, and we won’t let anyone who joined just yesterday come in and declare themselves leaders.

    “Some were issued party membership cards on the same day they were named interim chairmen. That’s not democracy,” he stressed.

    Highlighting their loyalty to the party’s values, the group said they had turned down invitations from other political parties during the 2023 elections, choosing instead to stick with ADC.

    “In my state, politicians offered me incentives to defect, but I stayed because ADC represents something bigger, a belief in grassroots politics, youth empowerment, women’s inclusion, and the rights of persons with disabilities,” Matara said.

    Highlighting why ADC youthfulness and grassroots structure became the toast of the old politicians, Matara, among several instances, cited his participation in the 2023 elections, saying, “I contested for a House of Representatives seat and came third.

    Read Also: We’ll challenge ADC takeover in court, Kachikwu vows

    “ADC came fifth in the presidential poll. That’s because of the structures we built across Nigeria.”

    The group also pointed out that they did not know the so-called 30-70 coalition sharing formula, alleging that no official document was ever presented to validate the arrangement.

    “They talk about a 30-70 sharing agreement, but there is no signed document. We were never informed of any template or modalities, the coalition was forced on us,” maintaining that the way forward is to first resolve internal party issues before considering any external alliances.

    “We can’t build on quicksand. Let us put our house in order before talking about mergers or coalitions. Otherwise, the entire structure will collapse,” he added

    The group, however, reiterated their willingness to welcome new members but insisted it must be through the proper process, noting, “You don’t walk into someone’s house and ask them to leave. You’re welcome to join, but don’t try to displace those who built it.”

    Responding to questions about possible legal steps, Matara said they would rely on due process and legal frameworks to protect the party.

    “We are law-abiding citizens. We will follow the ADC constitution, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Electoral Act. We will not act outside the law, but we will not be silent either,” he asserted.

    They accused the coalition proponents of attempting to erase the contributions of long-time party members by bringing in outsiders to assume leadership roles overnight.

    “We’re not against growth or unity, but it must be built on mutual respect and inclusion, not imposition,” one youth leader said.

    The group called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to clarify the current leadership status of ADC and dismiss any claims suggesting mass resignations by elected party officials.

    “ADC is not a social club or a tool for recycling failed politicians; it is a political institution with a distinct ideology. We will defend its legacy, its members, and its structures,” Matara emphasised.

    Other State chieftains, who spoke in solidarity, described the coalition as a deliberate attempt to override existing structures built over the years by dedicated members.

    “They had their time in public office. Now they’re trying to sneak into ADC through the back door. Is that the kind of change Nigerians want?

    Comrade Stephen Baba Shaidu, the North Central Youth Leader, said party members have sacrificed time, energy, and personal resources for years, and they deserve to be part of any future decisions regarding the party’s direction.

    “Does it mean we sacrificed for nothing? We won’t sit back and let years of commitment and sweat be erased. We deserve to be carried along, not sidelined,” he noted.

    He added that ADC had operated transparently for over 20 years and should not be derailed by elite interests.

    “The ideology of ADC is built on inclusion and justice. The people must remain at the centre of any decision,” he added.

  • INEC receives 12 applications for political party registration

    INEC receives 12 applications for political party registration

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed to associations seeking to register as political parties to maintain consistency of their proposed leadership and not cause a delay in the consideration of their applications. 

    The Commission said in a statement that it has received an additional 12 letters of intent from Associations seeking to be registered, bringing the number of applications being processed to 122.

    In the statement by National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the Commission said it was processing all the letters of intent transparently and will constantly update the nation on the development. 

    The statement reads: “On Monday last week (23rd June 2025), the Commission announced that it had received applications from 110 associations seeking registration as political parties. We also assured Nigerians that we will be giving regular updates on the matter. The Commission is processing these applications transparently and in fairness to all applicants. 

    “Meanwhile, the Commission has since received 12 more applications for registration as political parties as of yesterday, Wednesday 2nd July 2025, bringing the total number of applications to 122. 

    “The list of the new applications by names of associations, their acronyms, addresses, and interim Chairmen and Secretaries has been uploaded to our website and other platforms for public information. We will respond to these applicants in line with the Electoral Act and  Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022.

    “However, the Commission notes that one association has already changed its interim Secretary as a result of defection to another association. 

    Read Also: INEC to provide supplementary regulations for election declaration, review – Yakubu

    “To facilitate the consideration of these applications, the Commission appeals to associations to maintain consistency of their  proposed leadership and addresses so that they do not by their own actions cause a delay to the timely consideration of their applications”.

    The statement added:  “The Commission held its regular weekly meeting today, Thursday 3rd July 2025. Among other issues, the meeting discussed the need for clarity on the review of election results as well as the ongoing processing of applications from associations seeking registration as political parties. 

    “Nigerians would recall that in our interactions with stakeholders last week, the Commission promised to give an update on the two issues.

    “The proviso to Section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022 empowers the Commission to review declaration and return in elections that are not made voluntarily or done contrary to the law, regulations and guidelines for the election.

    “Consequently, there have been many interpretations of Section 65 of the Electoral Act, making it necessary for the Commission to use its powers under the law to issue Regulations, Guidelines or Manuals for the purpose of giving effect to the provisions of the Act and for its administration.

    “Clear procedure and timelines have now been provided, the details of which are contained in Supplementary No.1 to the main Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022. As approved by the Commission, the supplementary regulations and guidelines have been uploaded to the Commission’s website and other platforms for public information”.

  • No official position on coalition-PDP

    No official position on coalition-PDP

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has not taken an official position on the ongoing coalition talks. 

    Its National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba in a statement explained the party is rather concentrating on the forthcoming national convention. 

    “The attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to a misrepresenting report in a section of the social media claiming that the PDP had directed its members to join the Coalition Group.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the NWC states in clear terms that the PDP has not taken any official position on the issue of Coalition.

    “The PDP is for now focused on building and consolidating on attained unity, stability and strengthening of its structures and capacity to play its roles as the leading opposition Party determined to return to power in 2027.

    “Our party is currently working conscientiously towards a successful National Convention which will further revamp and reposition the PDP for the task ahead,” he stated.

    Read Also: Damagum: those who left PDP ‘will run back’

    Restating the emphatic views of the Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed that PDP can only work with willing opposition groups without surrendering its independence or strength, Ologunagba stressed that PDP will only work with others without compromising its independence or brand which can win the 2027 elections on its own.

    “Nevertheless, as a major opposition party with very strong presence and bond with Nigerians across the country, the PDP restates that it remains open to working with other well-meaning like-minded citizens in the collective effort to rescue our nation from the stranglehold of the rudderless and insensitive All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration.

    “Our party appreciates Nigerians for their interest, solidarity and loyalty to the PDP brand and reassures that all machineries are being put in place to re-activate the PDP winning ways ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he said.

    “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.”

    – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (27 February 1807 – 24 March 1882)

  • APC Rep membership rises to 220 as party consolidates hold

    APC Rep membership rises to 220 as party consolidates hold

    The All Peogreasives Congress (APC) has taken controllable lead in the House of Representatives, increasing the membership strength to about 220.

    Also the APC has a comfortable lead in Senate with a membership strength of 69 with more defectors from opposition parties expected to increase the tally in the coming days.

    As declared by the Independent National  Electoral Commission (INEC), the number of senators-elect during the 2023 National Assembly election and their political parties include the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with 56 senators; the Peoples Democratic Party (32); Labour Party (seven); New Nigeria Peoples Party (two); Social Democratic Party (two), All Progressives Grand Alliance (one) and the Young Progressives Party (one). The number of seats declared by INEC at the time was 101. Eight seats are yet to be filled.

    However, the APC and PDP later gained more members and also lost some following various court pronouncements and bye elections conducted by INEC in a few Senatorial Districts.

    With some senators from opposition parties have decamped to the APC, the disposition of political party membership in the 10th Senate presently is as follows: APC – 69, PDP – 30, LP – four, NNPP – one, SDP – two, APGA one and with two vacant seats formerly held by Senator Monday Okpebholo who represented Edo Central, and now Governor of Edo State and late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah  who had represented Anambra South.

    In the House of Representatives, at inauguration in 2023, the APC had about 178 members, but the number has increased with recent defection of members.

    On Thursday, seven members of the House from Akwa Ibom state dumped their parties, the PDP and YPP to join the growing members of the APC in the House.

    Read Also: Seven Akwa Ibom Reps dump PDP, YPP for APC over lingering crisis

    Thursday’s development leaves the Young Progressive Party with no member in the House, having come into the House with 2 members.

    The letters of defection of the lawmakers led by the leader of the Akwa Ibom caucus in the House, Unyime Idem were read at plenary on Thursday by Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen.

    The members include Alphonsus Uduak, Martin Esin, Paul Ekpo, Okpolupm Ette and Bassey Okon (from PDP) and Emmanuel Ukpong (YPP).

    The lawmakers said their decision was as a result of the lingering and unresolved crisis in the PDP and the YPP and after due consultation with their constituents.

    In his letter, Unyime Idem who head the House Committee on Public Procurement said he was leaving the PDP after 26 years of membership and having served his state and country on the platform of the party.

    He said he was, leaving the party as a result of the escalating crisis in the leadership of the party, especially regarding the office of the National Secretary, adding that he was leaving in line with section 68(1g).

    Martin Esin said he formally resigned from the PDP in the 17th of June and joined the APC in line with the yearning and aspirations of his constituents, attributing his decision to the lingering crisis in the PDP.

    Other defectors also attributed their decision to join the APC to the unresolved crisis in the PDP and the need to join the President in providing the dividends of democracy to their people.

    However, Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda expressed concern about the direction the nation’s democracy was heading, adding that while the members have the right to choose which political party to belong under section 40 of the Constitution, there are implications to such actions.

    He said the Constitution also spelt out what need to be done when an elected person decide to exercise his rights under section 40, asking the Speaker to do the needful and declare the seats of the lawmakers vacant.

    With the development, the APC now have a comfortable lead in the House, leaving the opposition with about 140 members spread across 6 political parties.

    Standing

    APC-220 up from 178

    PDP-90- down from 113

    LP- 26 down from 35

    NNPP-16-down from 19

    APGA-6- up from 5

    ADC-1-down from 2

    SDP-2

    YPP-O- down from 2

    However, there are five vacant seats in the House left by the death of four members of the APC and One member of the Labour Party.