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Category: Politics

  • APC South-south slams Rivers lawmakers over plot to impeach Fubara

    APC South-south slams Rivers lawmakers over plot to impeach Fubara

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Group and lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly have expressed contrasting positions on recent developments involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the implementation of the 2026 budget process.

    The APC South-South Group, speaking on Friday in Port Harcourt, reacted to comments by some lawmakers who claimed that the governor had not fully adhered to the peace agreement brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to resolve ongoing political tensions in the state.

    Addressing journalists, the group’s coordinator, Comrade Freedom Amadi, said the issues currently generating concern were linked to disagreements over the budget and governance priorities. 

    He maintained that the governor’s decisions were within his administrative authority and called for continued dialogue to preserve stability.

    According to him, the presidential peace accord was designed to restore calm and ensure that all institutions in the state functioned without friction. 

    He added that mutual respect for constitutional roles remained essential for sustaining the progress achieved since the agreement was reached.

    Lawmakers, however, have insisted that certain actions recently taken by the governor were inconsistent with the terms of the agreement and argued that the House of Assembly would continue to exercise its constitutional responsibilities.

    The APC South-South urged all parties to avoid actions or statements that could escalate tensions, stressing that collaborative engagement was necessary to uphold democratic order.

    The group also called on both the Rivers State House of Assembly and relevant federal institutions to maintain restraint and prioritise measures that reinforce peace, institutional harmony, and public confidence in the governance process.

  • NNPP rejects court order reversing dissolution of Kano executives

    NNPP rejects court order reversing dissolution of Kano executives

    A faction of the national secretariat of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) loyal to Rabiu Kwankwaso has rejected an ex parte order granted by a Kano State High Court reversing the dissolution of its executive committees in the state.  

    A statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson, in Abuja described the purported order as “a farce” and an abuse of court process.

    He said the NNPP National Working Committee (NWC) has not been served with any court process and therefore considers the reported ruling as “an ordinary street rumour.”

    As a consequence of the deepening crisis over Governor Yusuf’s defection to APC, the former NNPP Chairman Hashimu Dungurawa –a pro-Kwankwaso was sacked at the prompting of the Governor, who swiftly appointed Abdullahi Zubairu Abiya as replacement. 

    Abiya’s appointment was even backed by the court which affirmed the dismissal of the former chairman.

    However, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party described Dungurawa’s removal as a nullity. 

    It went on to dissolve the entire Kano party executives at the ward, local government and state levels indefinitely, saying the action was in line with the NNPP constitution.

    Read Also: JUST IN: NNPP appoints Abiya as Kano acting chairman amid leadership shake-up

    Not relenting, the pro-Yusuf camp approached the Kano High Court where Justice Nasiru Saminu, granted an order restoring the party’s executives at the state, local government and ward levels, which were earlier dissolved by the party’s NWC.

    But the party’s NWC is insisting that even if such an order exists, it would be legally defective.

    The party’s National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson said it was improper for a court to issue an interim injunction against a decision that had already been completed by a political party’s national leadership.

    “The court lacks jurisdiction to reverse an internal decision of the party,” he said, arguing that the Supreme Court has consistently held that the internal affairs of political parties are non-justiciable,” he said.

    The party also warned that if the reported injunction was confirmed, it would pursue legal remedies and petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) against any judicial officer found to have issued overreaching orders in breach of due process.

    Ladipo said: “The dissolution of Kano State executives at all levels therefore stands.”

  • Folarin urges massive voter registration to boost Tinubu’s chances

    Folarin urges massive voter registration to boost Tinubu’s chances

    The Oyo State Ambassador for Renewed Hope, Sen. Teslim Folarin, has urged eligible citizens and residents of Oyo State and South-West to fully participate in the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    He described voter registration as the bedrock of democratic participation, adding that it will also boost chances of re-electing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 general elections.

    Speaking during continuation of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ 14–Federal Constituency Tour in Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, Folarin said massive voter registration would enable Oyo State to significantly improve on its 2023 electoral performance for Bola Ahmed Tinubu by at least 35 per cent. 

    He stated that an expanded voter base would strengthen democratic legitimacy and ensure a clearer expression of the people’s will at the polls.

    The APC chieftain noted that Oyo State remained strategically important to national electoral outcomes, adding that coordinated grassroots mobilisation would position the state to deliver record-breaking results in the South-West and across Nigeria. 

    Read Also: Folarin calls for probe into alleged shooting at APC unity rally in Ogbomoso

    According to him, the region’s long-standing reputation for political consciousness can only be sustained through early registration, sustained civic engagement, and disciplined participation.

    Folarin urged youths, first-time voters, and residents yet to update their voter records not to miss the CVR window, describing registration as both a civic responsibility and a critical step toward consolidating democratic gains. 

    He however reaffirmed that as the tour progresses, Renewed Hope Ambassadors remained committed to mass mobilisation, unity of purpose, and active citizen participation to ensure the South-West emerges as a decisive voting bloc in Nigeria’s democratic journey toward 2027.

  • ADC afraid of its shadow, says Lagos APC

    ADC afraid of its shadow, says Lagos APC

    Lagos State chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC) says it has taken note of yet another alarmist outburst by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who now claims that Nigeria’s democracy is facing an “existential threat.”

    The party, in a statement yesterday in Ogba by its spokesman, Seye Oladejo, said: ‘’Coming from a political tendency that has repeatedly tested, stretched and strained democratic institutions, this sudden affection for democracy is as ironic as it is convenient.

    ‘’It is instructive that this apocalyptic narrative is being amplified from the stable of African Democratic Congress (ADC), a political contraption that appears unsure of its ideological footing, uncertain of its leadership direction and plainly afraid of its own shadow. Having failed to convince Nigerians at the polls, the opposition now seeks relevance by predicting the collapse of a democracy that has continued to mature despite their constant doomsday prophecies.

    ‘’Nigeria’s democracy is not under threat; what is under threat is the opposition’s fading relevance. Since May 29, 2023, democratic institutions have functioned as designed. Elections have been conducted, courts have adjudicated disputes, the legislature has exercised oversight, and citizens have continued to enjoy constitutionally guaranteed freedoms. The opposition has spoken freely, protested freely, and litigated freely-hardly the attributes of a nation under democratic siege.’’

    READ ALSO: Kano’s unfolding power game

    The statement said it was increasingly apparent that the ADC might implode under the weight of its own contradictions and inherent deceit.

    ‘’Beneath the loud rhetoric, borrowed moral outrage and manufactured alarmism lies a fragile coalition of protagonists, whose singular ambition is the Presidency-each nursing private entitlement while threatening fire and brimstone should that ambition be denied.

    ‘’No political house built on sand can withstand the inevitable internal whirlwind that follows unchecked ambition without ideology. It is therefore disingenuous to blame the ruling party for the visible desperation of ADC leaders, who already see the forthcoming elections as their final bow on the national stage.

    ‘’Perhaps it bears reminding that winning and losing are integral and inseparable components of the democratic process. Democracy does not collapse because personal ambitions are frustrated, nor is it imperilled when Nigerians refuse to mortgage their future to political expediency.’’

    Oladejo said the coalition, as presently constituted, appeared to have its expiry date engraved upon it, adding that longevity, sadly, did not appear to be its portion.

    The statement further said: ‘’What we are witnessing is not the defence of democracy, but the last convulsion of a political arrangement held together by fear, impatience and the fading relevance of its leading lights.

    ‘’Lagos APC affirms that Nigeria’s democracy remains resilient and firmly anchored under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The ongoing reforms, though demanding, are rooted in constitutional order, the rule of law, and democratic accountability-principles that cannot be wished away by those who lost the confidence of Nigerian people.

    ‘’We therefore advise Atiku Abubakar and his new political companions to confront reality honestly. Nigeria is not afraid. Democracy is not collapsing. It is only the opposition that is frightened by its own shadow-and by the unmistakable reality that Nigerians have moved on.’’

  • Youths clash over Fubara’s impeachment proceedings

    Youths clash over Fubara’s impeachment proceedings

    The Rivers State Youth Parliament (RSYP) and the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) have disagreed over the ongoing move by the Rivers Assembly to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara 

    The RSYP in a statement by its Speaker, Wisdom Bruce, declared support for the decision of the lawmakers to investigate Fubara on alleged gross misconduct.

    The statement said: “This action, though long overdue, is both timely and necessary in the overriding interest of peace, stability, democratic governance, and the collective future of the people of Rivers State.

    “Over an extended period, the state has witnessed persistent political tension, breakdown of trust among critical stakeholders, and repeated breaches of peace accords brokered severally by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and other well-meaning national leaders. 

    “These peace agreements were entered into in good faith, with the clear expectation that all parties would respect their terms in the spirit of reconciliation, unity, and responsible leadership. 

    “Regrettably, these agreements have been consistently violated by the governor of Rivers state thereby undermining national efforts to restore calm and political stability in Rivers State.

    “The Rivers State Youth Parliament views these repeated breaches as a grave affront to democratic norms, constitutional responsibility, and the authority of conflict-resolution mechanisms established to protect the peace and welfare of citizens.

    READ ALSO: Senator Kalu replies Otti, says Tinubu, APC will win Abia in 2027

    ” Leadership at all levels must be anchored on accountability, respect for dialogue, and adherence to agreements reached through lawful and inclusive processes. Where these principles are persistently disregarded, constitutional remedies must be pursued without fear or favour.

    “We emphasise that impeachment, as provided for under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is not an act of vendetta but a legitimate democratic process designed to safeguard governance, uphold the rule of law, and protect the public interest. 

    “The Rivers State Youth Parliament is particularly concerned about the long-term consequences of prolonged political crises, economic stagnation, loss of investor confidence, and shrinking opportunities for young citizens, lack of employment and others. Our generation bears the brunt of governance failures, and we therefore cannot remain silent when leadership actions continually threaten peace and development”.

    But the South South Youths Initiative (SSYI) condemned the renewed impeachment proceedings against describing the move as ill-conceived and destabilising.

    SSYI said youths across the South-South region, particularly in Rivers were deeply disturbed by the impeachment notice issued by the State House of Assembly.

    The position of the group was contained in a statement by its National President,  Imeabe Saviour Oscar on Thursday. 

    Saviour said the action by the lawmakers was coming at a time when Rivers people expected cooperation between the executive and the legislature to restore effective governance after what it described as a six-month near collapse during the period of emergency rule.

    He said: “Rivers youths are appalled that this is coming at a point when we are all expecting that the legislature would work closely with the governor to give Rivers State the desired governance that has been lacking since the return from Emergency Rule.  

    “While other states are talking about governance, Rivers State is still playing politics despite coming out from a six-month near collapse of governance. This is most unfortunate. Even though we are aware that the country is about to enter a political season, this action by the Assembly is too sudden and ill-conceived.”

    The group appealed to the lawmakers to work with the Governor to deliver good governance instead of distracting his administration and advised Fubara to remain focused despite what it described as political distractions.

  • ADC moves to review constitution to boost electoral chances

    ADC moves to review constitution to boost electoral chances

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has initiated another major internal reform process with the inauguration of its Constitution Review Committee, a move the party said is critical to strengthening its internal democracy and positioning it as a credible national alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    But Deputy National Chairman of the party, during the tenure of former Chairman Humphrey Nwosu, Hon. Nafiu Bala, is insisting he remains the party’s authentic National Chairman while dismissing the Sen. David Mark-led National Executive Committee (NEC) as illegal and unconstitutional.

    The extant Constitution, in effect since the party’s inception in 2006, has undergone several reviews and contentious amendments, some of which have led to litigations.

    Inaugurating the committee on Thursday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, said the exercise was central to the growth and institutional strengthening of the relatively young party.

    The 22-member committee chaired by Etigwe Uwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), include former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha; former party National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu; former Minority Leader Hon. Mohammed Kumaila; Senator E.Y. Orker Jev; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; Professor Lawal Salihu; retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Adamu; Professor Mohammed Sani Bello and former House of Representatives member Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum, among others.

    The committee is mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing ADC constitution and identify areas requiring amendment, clarification or updating, as well as ensure alignment with global best practices in democratic governance and party administration.

    In addition, the group is expected to review the structures of the party, electoral and disciplinary processes, membership administration and compliance with Nigeria’s constitution and electoral laws.

    The committee was mandated to submit an interim report with proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days.

    READ ALSO: Senator Kalu replies Otti, says Tinubu, APC will win Abia in 2027

    The National Chairman described the constitution review as a demonstration of the party’s resolve to build strong democratic values, internal cohesion and effective governance, stressing that the party’s constitution remains its foundational guide as well as safeguarding its internal democracy.

    Mark said the review had become necessary as the party expands in reach and responsibility, adding that the goal was to ensure the constitution reflects present realities, anticipates future challenges and aligns with global best practices in democratic party administration.

    Noting that the exercise was not aimed at altering the party’s core ideals, the former Senate President said, “This exercise is not about changing principles; it is about strengthening them. 

    “It is about ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in our structures and processes.”

    He said the revised constitution must empower members, promote unity, resolve disputes fairly and position the ADC as “a credible alternative for national leadership.”

    But Bala, who identified himself as the party’s substantive chairman, said the ADC was not factionalised, arguing that those claiming parallel leadership positions were not recognised members of the party and had no constitutional standing.

    “As far as we are concerned in ADC, we are an authentic party leadership. Those people, they are not even a cadre member of the ADC. I will not see them as party members. They are not even our party members,” he said.

    He accused the rival group of falsely presenting itself as party leadership and disclosed that the matter was already before the courts.

    “Already, we are before the court. I told them we are filing a matter before the court. I am challenging INEC on what they are doing,” Bala stated.

    He alleged that the party’s former national chairman, Nwosu did not voluntarily resign and denied claims that party officials had lawfully stepped down and communicated such changes to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    “Our former national chairman resigned involuntarily. And they are saying names were submitted to INEC and everybody resigned their position. This is not the truth,” he said.

    Bala explained that under the party’s constitution, he assumed leadership lawfully following developments within the party structure.

    “Before the national chairman resigned his position, automatically, our party constitution gave me this political power to take over the party national chairmanship office,” he said.

    He faulted INEC for what he described as overreach, insisting the electoral body had no authority to determine party leadership.

    “The court and INEC have no right to choose our party leadership. My name is before INEC. I was elected during the last convention. My tenure is coming to an end, but as far as our party constitution is concerned, I am the authentic party national chairman,” Nafiu said.

    Raising concerns about INEC’s actions, he accused the commission of encouraging illegality by recognising rival claims.

    “When INEC puts the name of David Mark on their website, already notifying INEC, this is illegality. They are taking the wrong decision against our party constitution,” he said.

    Nafiu added that his camp had taken legal steps to halt further actions pending judicial determination.

    “This is the reason why, immediately after notifying INEC of their error, we filed a matter before the court. We cannot do anything until what the court says. We continue running our party as the authentic party leadership,” Nafiu said.

    In a direct message to prominent political figures, Bala warned against bypassing party procedures.

    “I want to draw the attention of Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir el-Rufai, and other people claiming positions, including David Mark and Aregbesola, to follow the process of our party constitution.

    “If they want to join us, they should go to their various ward levels and register with us first as party members, to avoid anything about party internal crisis,” Nafiu added.

    However, checks on the lNEC website as of the time of filing this report show that official recognition has been accorded to the David Mark–led group.

  • 2027: We won’t allow anyone to hijack Oyo ADC, Ex-Makinde’s aide vows

    2027: We won’t allow anyone to hijack Oyo ADC, Ex-Makinde’s aide vows

    A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State and former aide to Governor Seyi Makinde, Bolanle Sarumi (BASA), has assured party executives and members that no individual or political bloc will be allowed to hijack the party, regardless of influence or status.

    Sarumi gave the assurance amid growing speculation over possible defections of prominent figures, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, to the ADC.

    Responding to concerns raised by party members, Sarumi said several leaders across the state had reached out to her, expressing fears that powerful politicians might attempt to seize the party’s structure or impose candidates ahead of the 2027 general election.

    She dismissed such concerns, insisting that the ADC in Oyo State remains anchored in grassroots organising and collective leadership.

    She emphasised that the party’s independence is protected by the commitment of its members, who finance its activities and have entrenched a culture of discipline and internal democracy across the 33 local government areas.

    Sarumi maintained that the ADC would not accept any attempt by Governor Makinde or other influential actors to impose candidates, warning that the party’s primaries would be conducted transparently and without interference.

    She added that any aspirant, delegate, or executive found engaging in vote-buying or manipulation would face immediate sanctions.

    Read Also: 2027: ADC moves to review constitution to boost election chances

    She further assured members that safeguards had been established to prevent betrayals or internal subversion during primaries, reiterating that the party’s integrity remains a top priority.

    “This cannot happen again. We have taken measures to ensure transparency. Such things only happen when executives allow them, and I have confidence in the loyalty and integrity of our leaders and members.”

    She clarified that while the ADC remains open to new members, including high-profile politicians, such individuals must align with the party’s values and contribute positively, rather than seek to dominate or buy influence.

    Members of the ADC in Oyo State welcomed Sarumi’s reassurance, describing it as timely and confidence-boosting.

    A member of the party noted that the interest being shown by sitting governors was evidence of the party’s growing national relevance.

    “That sitting governors are considering ADC shows the party is becoming a major force. PDP has lost relevance, and ADC is now the platform for serious politicians with a vision for Nigeria.”

  • 2027: ADC moves to review constitution to boost election chances

    2027: ADC moves to review constitution to boost election chances

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has initiated another major internal reform process with the inauguration of its Constitution Review Committee, a move the party said is critical to strengthening its internal democracy and positioning it as a credible national alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The extant Constitution, which has been in effect since the party’s inception in 2006, has undergone several reviews and contentious amendments, some of which have led to litigation.

    Inaugurating the committee on Thursday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, the National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, said the exercise was central to the growth and institutional strengthening of the relatively young party.

    The 22-member committee, chaired by Etigwe Uwa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), includes former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Emeka Ihedioha, former party National Chairman Chief Ralph Nwosu, former Minority Leader Hon. Mohammed Kumaila, Senator E.Y. Orker Jev, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Professor Lawal Salihu, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Adamu, Professor Mohammed Sani Bello, and former House of Representatives member Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum, among others.

    The committee is mandated to conduct a comprehensive review of the existing ADC constitution and identify areas requiring amendment, clarification, or updating, as well as ensure alignment with global best practices in democratic governance and party administration.

    In addition, the group is expected to review the structures of the party, electoral and disciplinary processes, membership administration, and compliance with Nigeria’s constitution and electoral laws.

    The committee was mandated to submit an interim report with proposed amendments to the National Working Committee within 30 days.

    The National Chairman described the constitution review as a demonstration of the party’s resolve to build strong democratic values, internal cohesion, and effective governance, stressing that the party’s constitution remains its foundational guide as well as safeguarding its internal democracy.

    Mark said the review had become necessary as the party expands in reach and responsibility, adding that the goal was to ensure the constitution reflects present realities, anticipates future challenges, and aligns with global best practices in Democratic Party administration.

    Noting that the exercise was not aimed at altering the party’s core ideals, the former Senate President said, “This exercise is not about changing principles; it is about strengthening them.

    “It is about ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusiveness, and accountability in our structures and processes.”

    He said the revised constitution must empower members, promote unity, resolve disputes fairly, and position the ADC as “a credible alternative for national leadership.”

    Charging members of the committee, Mark urged them to approach the assignment with open minds and broad consultations, “You must listen to the voices of party members at all levels, respect our founding values, and produce a constitution that strengthens internal democracy, enhances discipline, and guarantees transparency in party affairs,” he added.

    Mark expressed confidence that the process would strengthen the ADC’s democratic culture and better prepare the party for national political engagement ahead of 2027.

    Responding, the committee Chairman, Uwa, pledged the readiness of the members to deliver a revised document that strengthens internal democracy, accountability, and efficiency in party administration.

    He stressed that the review exercise was aimed at improving the existing Constitution, not faulting it, while expressing confidence that the outcome would produce a practical and widely acceptable framework for the party’s future operations

    He assured that all necessary intellectual and institutional resources would be deployed to complete the assignment successfully, while disclosing plans to consult widely with party stakeholders across the country to ensure the final document reflects the expectations of members and the wider public.

    The committee said the review would focus on opening up key constitutional provisions to promote transparency, improve internal governance, and support a more inclusive and functional party structure, particularly at the grassroots level.

    He stressed that the revised Constitution would be broad and enabling, avoiding excessive detail while providing clear, fair, and transparent processes for the selection of party officials and candidates for elective positions, in line with best democratic practices.

  • APC group demands halt to impeachment move against Fubara

    APC group demands halt to impeachment move against Fubara

    …says action violates constitution and Tinubu-brokered peace

    The APC Progressive Mandate Group has called for an immediate halt to the impeachment proceedings against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, describing the process as constitutionally defective, politically driven, and a clear breach of the peace accord personally facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Comrade Ayodele Alonge, the group warned that the impeachment move, already initiated in the Rivers State House of Assembly, is being prosecuted on what it termed a faulty legal foundation. It urged lawmakers to suspend the process to prevent further destabilisation of the state.

    According to the group, the ongoing proceedings lack the constitutional and procedural legitimacy required for such a consequential action.

    It added that beyond legal infractions, the move represents a direct affront to the President, who last year brokered peace between Governor Fubara, Minister Nyesom Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The group said the development jeopardises the fragile stability restored through that intervention.

    The Assembly had earlier levelled allegations against Fubara, including extra-budgetary spending, demolition of the Assembly complex, withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, and alleged failure to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on legislative autonomy. He is also accused of unconstitutional expenditure and obstructing the Assembly’s statutory duties.

    The group recalled that President Tinubu’s intervention last year resolved tensions that threatened governance in Rivers State, leading to a reconciliation agreement signed by Fubara and Wike under the President’s supervision. It argued that any attempt to overturn that agreement is reckless and challenges the President’s authority.

    It further dismissed the Assembly’s reliance on the Rivers State budget passed by the National Assembly during emergency rule, insisting that lawmakers have no legal authority to question its implementation.

    The APC Progressive Mandate Group noted that Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC in December 2025 triggered a series of high-profile defections into the ruling party. Among those who have joined are former PDP national chairman Uche Secondus, former Governor Peter Odili and his wife, Justice Mary Odili, as well as at least five members of the House of Representatives from Rivers State.

    The group stated that Fubara has expanded the APC’s influence in Rivers State by fostering partnerships with influential leaders and lawmakers, thereby strengthening the party’s national relevance. It warned that the impeachment effort risks eroding the political gains achieved through dialogue and reconciliation.

    It also criticised the role of Wike and his loyalists in the Assembly, alleging that the impeachment push is driven more by political sabotage than governance concerns.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Rivers Assembly initiates impeachment proceedings against Fubara, Deputy

    “For long, the narrative has painted Governor Fubara as the source of instability. It is now evident that the effort to destabilise Rivers stems from a faction led by Minister Wike and sympathetic legislators who are intent on dismantling the peace that President Tinubu painstakingly facilitated. Their ambition is undermining state cohesion and the broader democratic order.

    “Wike must also be called upon to face his duty as FCT minister or resign immediately. Wike’s current role in the latest impeachment proceedings against Fubara is an insult to the president, who showed uncommon courage in appointing him as a minister, despite his membership in the PDP,” the group said.

    The statement urged the National Assembly to intervene, warning that inaction could set a dangerous precedent for other states.

    “We call on the National Assembly to uphold constitutional order and intervene decisively. The federal legislature must ensure that due process and legal propriety are respected in Rivers State. Let it be clear that the actions of a few cannot dictate the political destiny of an entire state,” Alonge added.

    The group also demanded an immediate halt to the impeachment and an apology to the President.

    “This impeachment is not corrective; it is a political misadventure. Halting the process and acknowledging the President’s role in restoring peace is essential, not just for Rivers State, but for the credibility of democratic governance in Nigeria. Those behind this disruption must understand that attempts to subvert national reconciliation will neither succeed nor be tolerated,” the statement added.

  • Atiku won’t step aside for Obi in 2027 – Dele Momodu

    Atiku won’t step aside for Obi in 2027 – Dele Momodu

    Former presidential candidate and media entrepreneur Dele Momodu has ruled out any possibility of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar withdrawing from the 2027 presidential race in favour of former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.

    Atiku, who was the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 presidential election, formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in November 2025, a move widely seen as a strategic step towards securing the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Obi, who finished third in the 2023 poll behind Atiku and winner President Bola Tinubu, also defected from the Labour Party to the ADC last week. 

    His defection has been interpreted by political observers as part of a broader opposition realignment aimed at mounting a serious challenge to Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    The development sparked speculation that Obi could settle for a vice-presidential role on an Atiku-led ticket—claims swiftly mocked by figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo.

     However, prominent Obi supporters such as political economist Pat Utomi and activist Aisha Yesufu have warned they would withdraw their support if Obi accept a deputy slot.

    Recent rumours suggesting that Atiku might step aside for Obi, based on an alleged agreement for Obi to serve a single four-year term before handing over power in 2031, were firmly dismissed by Momodu.

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Momodu said Atiku had no reason to abandon his ambition.

    Read Also: Wike tackles Dele Momodu over comment on June 12 struggle

    “Several people have asked me to advise former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to voluntarily withdraw from the 2027 presidential race,” Momodu said.

     “When I ask them why, they say he is too old—not that he is less healthy than President Bola Tinubu.

    “Out of unsubstantiated malice and prejudice, Tinubu can and should contest, but Atiku can’t and shouldn’t contest.”

    Momodu argued that attempts to discredit Atiku’s ambition had become a recurring media narrative, insisting that the former vice president’s experience and record set him apart from most of his contemporaries.

    “He’s certainly not a saint, but he towers above most of his peers by not being a parasite feeding on the state since he left power in 2007,” he added.