The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • 2026: Babayemi gets Osun LGA youths, kinsmen endorsement for APC ticket

    2026: Babayemi gets Osun LGA youths, kinsmen endorsement for APC ticket

    Omooba Dotun Babayemi, one of the leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC), was on Thursday endorsed for the 2026 party guber ticket by youths in Ayedaade local government area of Osun State.

    The youths described Babayemi who had contested for guber seat in 2022 as the best choice that would change the face of the state for better.

    Babayemi, who was received by over 2,000 youths in Gbongan (his hometown), had commenced a statewide consultative meeting with leaders and stakeholders of the party after declaring his intention at APC state secretariat.

    Read Also: Tinubu dismisses one-party state agenda, welcomes defectors to APC

    Speaking on behalf of the youths, Mr Adekunle Rafiu said their choice of Babayemi was predicated on the fact that he was visionary and service driven.

    According to him, “His impact through his contributions to communities in this local government and across the state, are immeasurable. This even becomes more instructive if one considers the fact that he has always been doing these in his private capacity.

    “Babayemi has consistently exemplified leadership, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the progress of our community. His policies and initiatives are poised to drive sustainable development, create significant opportunities, and empower the youth”

    He noted that Babayemi’s candidature and eventual emergence at the polls as governor, would lead to a remarkable turnaround for the state and its people.

    “We, the youths of Ayedaade Local Government, are writing to express our unwavering endorsement for Omooba Dotun Babayemi, a distinguished governorship aspirant, in his pursuit of the All Progressive Congress (APC) nomination for the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial election in Osun State” he said

    They subsequently appealed to the leaders of the party to make sure the Gbongan-born Prince was chosen to fly the flag of the party in the 2026 gubernatorial election.

  • 2027: Adamawa APC rallies for Tinubu, welcomes high-profile defectors

    2027: Adamawa APC rallies for Tinubu, welcomes high-profile defectors

    Thousands of All Progressives Congress (APC) members from across Adamawa State converged in Yola on Thursday for a massive support rally in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, endorsing him for a second term in office.

    Party faithful from all 21 local government areas marched through the streets in a colourful procession that began at the iconic Unity Bridge in Jimeta and ended at Muna Hotel in Dougirei, after stopping at the party’s new secretariat on Scope Road. The rally was followed by a stakeholders’ meeting, where the party received thousands of high-profile defectors.

    Read Also: NiMet predicts three days of thunderstorms in Niger, Taraba, Adamawa, FCT, others

    Among the notable figures who officially joined the APC were former Deputy Governor Crowther Seth, prominent businessman and philanthropist Abdulrahman Haske, former Chief Judge of Adamawa State Ambrose Mamman, and ex-Speaker of the State House of Assembly Gibson Nathaniel.

    North East APC Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the event was organised to express appreciation for President Tinubu’s achievements, reforms, and developmental programs over the past two years.

    The gathering also saw party leaders pass a vote of confidence on National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, applauding his efforts in combating insecurity and restoring Nigeria’s global image.

    Other speakers, including former Education Minister Prof. Tahir Mamman, APC State Chairman, Barr. Shuaibu Idris and former Governor Bala James Nggilari praised Tinubu’s leadership, expressing confidence that the temporary hardships caused by reforms would soon give way to national prosperity.

  • Tinubu dismisses one-party state agenda, welcomes defectors to APC

    Tinubu dismisses one-party state agenda, welcomes defectors to APC

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has denied claims that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is working to turn Nigeria into a one-party state, declaring he would be the last person to support such a move.

    Speaking during a joint session of the National Assembly to mark this year’s Democracy Day, Tinubu rejected the notion that the APC is plotting to eliminate opposition parties.

    However, he welcomed defectors from opposition parties into the APC, stating that the ruling party will keep its doors open to all willing to join.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu grants posthumous pardon to Ken Saro Wiwa, other eight Ogoni leaders

    While stressing the importance of opposition in a democracy, Tinubu admitted he has no intention of helping rival parties stay united. 

    “It is my wish for the opposition to be in disarray. I cannot help them put their house in order,” he said.

    Details shortly…

  • Democracy must work for people not just at polls — Natasha

    Democracy must work for people not just at polls — Natasha

    On Democracy Day, suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has called on Nigerians to uphold the ideals of justice, equity, inclusion, and national unity, insisting that democracy must yield tangible benefits beyond elections.

    In a statement on Democracy Day, the Senator representing Kogi Central paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola and other pro-democracy heroes whose sacrifices, she said, laid the foundation for Nigeria’s current democratic system.

    “June 12 stands as a symbol of our collective struggle for democratic governance,” Senator Uduaghan stated. “It is a tribute to the courage of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and the countless Nigerians—known and unknown—who stood firm to defend the sanctity of the people’s will.”

    She noted while Nigeria has made democratic strides, real progress must be measured by how governance improves the everyday lives of citizens.

    “Democracy must bring real development, empower the weak, uphold the rule of law, and protect the dignity of every Nigerian,” the lawmaker emphasized.

    She urged Nigerians, especially youth and women, to actively engage in the democratic process, stressing that their voices and participation are essential to shaping a nation that works for all.

    Read Also: Natasha: Appeal Court strikes out Akpabio’s motions, slams ₦100,000 fine

    “I urge all Nigerians to remain engaged. Our participation and vigilance are vital in building a Nigeria that serves every citizen, regardless of tribe, religion, gender, or class,” she said.

    Reaffirming her commitment to good governance, the Senator vowed to continue pursuing inclusive legislation and transparency in public service.

    “Let us not lose hope in our nation. Let us build bridges across divides and work toward a future where democracy becomes a lived reality for all,” she declared.

    She concluded with a message of optimism and solidarity: “Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

  • NIWA boss denies meeting with police to destabilise Osun

    NIWA boss denies meeting with police to destabilise Osun

    The Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji, has denied meeting with the police to destabilise Osun State ahead of the 2026 guber poll. 

    Oyebamiji, one of the leading guber aspirants within the All Progressives Congress(APC), reacting to alleged meeting with one ACP Adekunle Ige of MOPOL 39 Commander, described the allegation as outright falsehood to smear him. 

    A statement by his campaign coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji on Thursday said he was not planning to heat up the polity of Osun State using the police as reported in some sections of the media. 

    “The accusation is false and is part of the grand plot to distract Oyebamiji from his lofty 2026 project of delivering the state from the doldrum it was plunged into by the clumsy government in Abeere.

    “We equally sense that the power mongers have seen the 2026 defeat staring themselves in the face, thus preparing the ground of excuse for the outcome of the failure awaiting them next year.”

    He said that since Oyebamiji declared his gubernatorial intention, the NIWA boss has come under false attacks from the camp of the incumbent governor of Osun State. 

    “Oyebamiji did not meet the named police officer, or any officer for that matter, for any purpose or for the purpose of further breaching the fragile security architecture in the state or withdrawing the security Details of the Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) in the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun as touted by the news outlet.

    “It is glaring that the evil forces behind the smear campaign against Oyebamiji are those either being haunted by the cruelty of their immediate past or troubled by the towering profile of our political megastar whose resolve, to set Osun loose from the manacles of the economic plunderers feeding fat on the commonwealth of the people of the state, is daily strengthened by the enthusiastic citizens.”

  • Renew commitment to democracy Oyo gov hopeful urges Nigerians

    Renew commitment to democracy Oyo gov hopeful urges Nigerians

    The President, Peter Olaoluwa Foundation (POF) and a governorship hopeful in Oyo State, Olaoluwa Abidemi otherwise known as “OPA” has urged Nigerians to reflect deeply on the successes recorded in the nation’s history and renew their commitment to democratic process, and uphold its principles.

    A statement by Olaoluwa described Democracy Day as a symbol of triumph of people’s collective will over dictatorship and tyranny.

    He stated that June 12 serves as a reminder of the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of past heroes and heroines who fought for the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria.

    According to him, democracy has enabled transparency and accountability in governance, promoted political competition, allowed for the expression of diverse viewpoints, and enhanced civic engagement among citizens. 

    He expressed concern that despite more than two decades of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, Nigeria has not yet reached its full potential.

    He emphasised that there is still much work to be done to strengthen the nation’s democracy.

    He stressed the need for continuous electoral reforms and increased civic participation, as well as the importance of building strong democratic institutions that protect the vulnerable, promote justice, and guarantee equal opportunities for all citizens. 

    He however said he believed that these steps are essential to advancing democracy and fostering national development.

  • June 12: Dafinone urges Nigerians to defend democracy, build better nation

    June 12: Dafinone urges Nigerians to defend democracy, build better nation

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has called on citizens to remain steadfast in defending democratic ideals, as the country marks Democracy Day, saying that while Nigeria is not yet where it ought to be, significant progress has been made since the historic June 12, 1993 election.

    In a statement marking the anniversary, the Delta Central Senator said the country’s democratic journey has been shaped by the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for the sanctity of the ballot. He emphasised that democracy, with all its imperfections, remains far superior to any military regime.

    “The worst form of democracy is still better than the best military rule,” Dafinone stated. “Our voices, our votes, and our freedoms must be protected with unity and purpose.”

    He charged Nigerians, particularly Deltans and the Urhobo Nation, to keep faith with the Nigerian project, urging collective effort to build a nation rooted in justice, equity, and inclusion. “Together,” he declared, “we can create the Nigeria we all desire.”

    According to him: “As we mark another anniversary of June 12, I join millions of Nigerians in reflecting on the journey of our democracy — a journey born out of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of patriots who stood for the sanctity of the ballot and the will of the people. While we are not yet where we should be, it is important to recognise that we have made meaningful progress in deepening democratic values, institutions, and citizen participation since the watershed moment of June 12, 1993.

    “I urge all Nigerians to remain resolute and committed to the ideals of democracy, even in the face of present challenges. As history has shown, the worst form of democracy is still better than the best military regime. 

    Read Also: Dafinone commissions ICT centres, technical equipment for schools in Delta Central

    “Our voices, our votes, and our freedoms matter — and must be protected with vigilance, responsibility, and unity of purpose. Democracy offers the hope of self-determination, justice, and prosperity when we all play our part as responsible citizens.

    “To my fellow Deltans and the great Urhobo Nation, I appeal that we continue to keep faith with the project Nigeria. We must not lose sight of the bigger picture — a united, inclusive, and thriving country where every region and people can find expression and opportunity. Our strength lies in our diversity and our collective will to overcome adversity with dignity and resilience.

    “Together, we can work to build the Nigeria we all desire — a nation guided by equity, transparency, and service to the people. As we remember June 12, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that make democracy meaningful: accountability, participation, rule of law, and justice for all.”

  • Bamidele: How my wife used ambulance to rescue me from Abacha’s agents 

    Bamidele: How my wife used ambulance to rescue me from Abacha’s agents 

    Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has narrated how he was smuggled out of Abuja by his wife, Mrs. Yemisi Bamidele, in an ambulance belonging to Garki General Hospital, where she was working as a registered pharmacist.

    Bamidele added that his narrow escape from the onslaught of the agents of the General Sani Abacha junta eventually culminated into his political asylum in the United States due to perennial threat to his life and immediate family members.

    He spoke in Abuja on Wednesday while narrating his ordeal as part of the activists to commemorate the 2025 National Democracy Day following the annulment of the June 12 presidential election won by the candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Chief MKO Abiola, now of blessed memory.

    Bamidele, in a statement, added that he was in a court session in Wuse II, Federal Capital Territory to defend 11 students union leaders expelled by University Abuja when he received information that security operatives had invaded his law office looking for arms and weapons..

    According to him:  “I was in court when one of the court registrars informed me about the invasion of my law office in Wuse II. There was no GSM then. We only relied on land lines. One of the lawyers in my office had called my wife from NUJ Secretariat because they had my wife’s office line at Garki General Hospital where she was working as a registered pharmacist.

    “He called my wife’s office line just to let me know that when he went to buy something around my office. By the time he was returning; he saw that security officers had taken over the entire place.

    “As one of the people who managed to come out of the street, he heard that the security agencies said they were looking for arms and ammunition in that office. It was that bad to come and look for arms and ammunition in a law office.”

    He further narrated how his wife quickly called one of the assistant registrars she knew in the court, requesting her to inform him about the invasion of his law office by the agents of the military junta.

    According to him: “My case had not been called because we were other senior lawyers in court whose matter would be mentioned before coming to junior counsels. So, the assistant registrar came to whisper what happened in my law office to me. I managed to inform one of my colleagues to stand by and represent me.

    “What I did was to walk across to the law office of another colleague. I stayed there until I was able to reach my wife through her office line. My wife brought an ambulance from Garki General Hospital to convey me to another location. It was the ambulance we used to go to a place where a friend could convey me in his car. We then drove out for almost three days before we got to a safer place.

    Read Also: Bamidele slams opposition over ‘rubber-stamp’ label, defends NASS’ independence

    “I could not fly during the period because the military junta had placed the airport under stick monitoring. So, we could not fly. The journey took almost three days. I could not go to my house in Lagos State. I was told that just as they were searching my office in Abuja, they were also searching the offices of Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti and Chief Femi Falana on the same day in Lagos.

    “I think they were just picking people randomly. That was the beginning of my journey to flee Nigeria. We had a NADECO route where once you found your way to Lagos State, you would go to Badagry. From there, there was an arrangement on how they would take you to Cotonou, which was a very dangerous route for anybody.

    “They put a little boat on the water that connects to the international route. They paddled a canoe at night. A number of us went through this route to get out of Nigeria. From Accra in Ghana, we began to look for people who could send us a ticket. That was how I ended up in the US.

    “In the US, I was granted political asylum by the Government of the United States which gave me a platform to assist other comrades to leave the country where we continued our struggle against the military junta in exile,” the senate leader recounted. 

  • Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu reconciliation: President an exemplary father, says Idimogu

    Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu reconciliation: President an exemplary father, says Idimogu

    A former Lagos lawmaker, Jude Idimogu, has described President Bola Tinubu as an exemplary father, following his reconciliation with his political godson, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    It will be recalled that several rep[orts pointed at the rift between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State governor, over some matters.

    A video showing the President snubbing the governor at a public function also went viral, affirming sharp differences between the duo. 

    But, the exact cause of the feud between them remained a subject of conjecture. 

    However, on Sunday, the Governor Advisory Council (GAC) led the governor to broker a truce. 

    During the meeting in Lagos with the President, GAC Chairman, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, who welcomed Tinubu to Lagos, pleaded with him to forgive anyone who might have offended him, especially the governor.

    Responding, the President reportedly declared, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven.”

    Idimogu, a deputy leader of Ndigbo in Lagos APC, said on Wednesday that the President had shown examples for others to follow, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    “The President Bola Tinubu has shown up again as an exemplary father in this matter, not minding whatever that might have gone wrong between him and the performing Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    “This shows truly that Asiwaju is a great leader with a large heart. The President as a leader is humane and God-fearing.

    “Using the opportunity and essence of Eid-Kabir celebration to forgive and reconcile with his political godson, Sanwo-Olu tells us that the President is god- fearing.

    “Mr President, we thank you for welcoming back your political godson. Whatever that might have caused this disharmony would not arise again,” Idimogu said.

    The former lawmaker said that now that the rift was over, the governor’s mind would be at rest to continue working and make life better for the residents of Lagos.

    “We must also commend Sanwo-Olu’s rare humility and tenderness. The governor has been soft spoken, intelligent, quiet, and he has been doing well excellently.

    “Sanwo-Olu has the fear of God and whatever offences he might have committed cannot be deliberate.

    “Sometimes, we don’t know when we offend people but when we get to know, a good leader must apologise. I am happy he did.

    “We must put this behind us and move forward as we approach the 2027 election which the President will win by the Grace of God,” he added.

    Idimogu reiterated his strong conviction that Tinubu would emerge victorious in 2027 for second tenure no matter the collusion, alliances and coalition of opposition parties.

    “He (Tinubu) is appointed by God to repair Nigeria and we know God wants him there.

    “He will finish his second term strong and in good health in the interest of all Nigeria,” he said.

    Idimogu called on the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC) led by Prince Tajudeen Olusi, for stepping in to find solutions to the problem in wisdom.

    Read Also: June 12: Bode George urges Tinubu to reinstate Fubara

    He commended Lagos State APC leaders for having a good mechanism to always resolve issues internally without allowing it to degenerate.

    He called on Nigerians especially the Northern leaders to support the President.

    Idimogu prayed to God to give the President long life, strength and wisdom to steer the ship of the country to restoration.

    According to him, the President has been doing his best to reposition the country and his efforts have been yielding results for the country.

    Similarly, Idimogu urged the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, to also forgive whoever had offended him in the recent saga in the House.

    He said that this was important to move the state forward without inheritance.

    “To err is human. We offend God and he forgives us of all our sins always, and grants us many more opportunities,” he added.

  • June 12: Nigeria’s democracy has come to stay, says Falae

    June 12: Nigeria’s democracy has come to stay, says Falae

    Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Olu Falae, has said Nigeria’s democracy has come to stay, declaring that it is now impossible for the military to rule the country again.

    Falae, who is now the Olu of Ilu-Abo in the Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, acknowledged that the country deserved to celebrate its 26 years of uninterrupted democracy.

    According to him, the struggle by the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) ushered in the democratic system the country currently enjoys after 29 years of military rule.

    He spoke on Wednesday in Akure, the state capital, in commemoration of June 12, Democracy Day.

    “The NADECO struggle was a successful one, and of course, it ushered in democratic elections which had come to stay. So, since independence, we have never had 25-26 years of unbroken democratic rule, and the NADECO struggle was responsible for that,” Falae said.

    Identifying the heroes of the struggle who fought the military juntas to a standstill, the Afenifere chieftain said the military cannot have a thought of coming back to power, saying they would be visibly confronted by civilians.

    Read Also: Otti, Falae thumb up Tinubu’s bold policies

    “The soldiers saw how we fought to maintain democracy, and that’s one of the reasons they have not tried since then, because they know now there would be resistance. In the past, the military always showed that if they took over, nobody would kick, nobody would dare retaliate. We have dared.

    “We have succeeded. That’s partly why we have had 26 years of unbroken civilian democratic rule. I recall that we gave an ultimatum to the military government to restore Abiola’s mandate within 30 days.”

    He added, “Now, that’s very significant. It had never happened in our history that a bunch of civilians would give an ultimatum to a military government.

    “Since 1963, not once had any group dared to challenge the military. We were the first to give them an ultimatum.”