The Nation Newspaper

Category: Politics

  • PDP a formidable party, not charity organisation – Wike

    PDP a formidable party, not charity organisation – Wike

    Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains a formidable political force in the country and not a charity organisation.

    Wike made the remarks at the 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party in Abuja on Monday night.

    While warning members against viewing PDP as a charity organisation, he urged them to return to the grassroots and rebuild the party from the ward and polling unit levels.

    “Forget the idea that PDP is a charity organisation. PDP remains a formidable political force despite its current challenges.

    “PDP is too strong, very strong. We must capitalise on what we have and move forward,” he stated.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister spoke extensively on the party’s internal challenges, the ongoing legal disputes and the way forward for rebuilding it ahead of future elections.

    He stressed that his concerns were solely focused on the survival, stability and success of the party nationwide.

    Wike declared his keen interest in all activities of the Oyo chapter of the party, as part of efforts towards ensuring its survival and success.

    While appreciating the calls for peace by the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the National Working Committee (NWC), Wike urged party leaders and members to remain vigilant, noting the ongoing attempts to destabilise PDP.

    He cautioned that adversaries would not relent until the party was finished, but expressed confidence that such efforts would fail.

    “They will not give up until they believe you are destroyed, but I will not be destroyed; you will not be destroyed. Let us move forward,” he said.

    Read Also: Wike, labour unions reach truce, end FCT workers’ strike

    The minister expressed confidence that any attempt by those he described as “vampires” to take over the affairs of the party across the 36 states of the federation, including FCT, would fail.

    He further urged PDP to rely on experience and internal capacity, noting the presence of competent legal and organising officers within the party, capable of navigating the current challenges.

    “We have a competent legal adviser. We have a competent national organising secretary. Experience matters. When we combine our collective experience, the results will speak for themselves,” he said.

    Wike thanked NEC members for attending the meeting at short notice and urged them to remain committed to strengthening the party as Nigeria’s leading opposition platform.

    He said that the party was now waiting for the caretaker committee to issue clear directives, particularly on the conduct of the overdue congresses, which he described as “critical steps” towards organising a credible national convention.

    (NAN)

  • PDP crisis: Why I rejected expulsion of Wike, others, by Mutfwang

    PDP crisis: Why I rejected expulsion of Wike, others, by Mutfwang

    Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has explained why he objected to the expulsion of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and other members of Group of Five (G5)  governors by the factional Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership.

    He said it was not the right thing to do because it further worsened the protracted crisis in the main opposition party.

    Mutfwang,  who spoke with reporters in Jos, the state capital, after the defection rally, said there was no prior consultation before the decision was taken, adding that only a few people imposed it on the party.

    Wike and 11 stalwarts were suspended at the factional convention held at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State, following a motion by a party elder from Lagos State, Chief Olabode George, who accused them of disloyalty, insurbodination and other anti-party activities.

    Apart from Wike, other expelled chieftains are  former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, factional National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Umar Bature, National Director of Organization, and National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN).

    Also dismissed were factional Acting Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, factional Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Mao Ohuabunwa, Austin Nwachukwu, George Turner, Abraham Amali and Dan Orbih, Southsouth zonal leader.

    Read Also: FG, states, councils share ₦1.969tr December revenue at FAAC meeting

    Mutfwang and Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri instantly dissociated themselves from the action.

    In reaction to the sack, the Wike/Anyanwu faction announced the expulsion of Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, his Oyo and Zamfara counterparts,  Seyi Makinde and Dauda Lawal; Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, newly elected factional Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, Deputy National Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja, former Deputy Chairman, Chief Bode George, Senator Ben Obi among others.

    Reflecting on the crisis, Mutfwang said he objected to the dismissal on principle, inisting that he was not privy to the disciplinary measure.

    He recalled: “I objected out of principle because it was done surreptitiously. There was no conversation around it that I was privy to, and I felt that a decision of such magnitude should not just be taken by a few people. “Moreover, I didn’t see the purpose it was going to achieve. It was only going to deepen the divide, and as you can see, the situation has worsened since then.”

    Mutfwang said the crisis multiplied after the expulsion because the it was a wrong strategy.

    He added: “If you followed the trend last week, there was a particular fiasco in court, which is like walking into a trap. Before you get out of such entanglement, a lot of water has passed under the bridge. I thought it was a wrong strategy to take control of the party.”

    The governor said apart from the invitation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), there was no point staying in PDP because it became a wobbling platform.

    He said: “From September or thereabout, the PDP began to wobble seriously. It got to the point where, as an insider, I became aware, as one of our elders said, that the PDP had fallen into the hands of undertakers.

    “At that point, the question was whether I was still going on with 2027 or not. I likened it to having a very serious appointment, like a wedding, ahead of you, and the vehicle you are travelling in breaks down very irreparably. You are forced at that point either to look for a mechanic or to look for another vehicle.

    “Going into 2027, I needed a platform. When I looked at it and saw that the PDP was not likely going to become a viable platform for 2027, I had to think of an option. The options were either to look for a new political party or to accept the invitation by the President.”

    Mutfwang added: “I did my own intelligence gathering about the state of parties in Nigeria, I found that it was least dangerous for me to respond to the President than to think of a new platform. I have never believed in the gladiators in the ADC, for example, and I didn’t think that was an option for me.”

    Mutfwang added: “in the year, the circumstances were entirely different. After that, events began to emerge that I never contemplated, which forced me to have a rethink. It is that rethink that has brought me to this point now, where, after much consultation, I thought it was safer to go with the APC.”

    The governor said he has no regret joining the APC, stressing that the realignment will bring dividends to Plateau.

    Mutfwang stressed: “For me, it is to expect more collaboration, more enhancement and more support to continue what we have started doing. I must be honest, we haven’t witnessed too much hostility from the Federal Government.

    “At least, in the last one year plus, I think, I’ve enjoyed considerable collaboration with the Federal Government. Now that I’m part of the family, I expect even more enhanced collaboration in the future.

    “What is emerging is that Plateau State is becoming like the jewel of the crown in the North Central. I believe that all the potential to harvest votes on the Plateau will be nurtured so that we can deliver on the potential and produce that we hold.”

  • Businessman: I want to succeed Uzodimma

    Businessman: I want to succeed Uzodimma

    • ‘It is the turn of Owerri Zone’

    Obioma Success Akagburuonye, lawyer, engineer and businessman, has thrown his hat into the ring in Imo State.

    Ahead of next year’s governorship poll, he is intensifying consultations across the three senatorial districts on his ambition to succeed Governor Hope Uzodimma.

    “In Imo State,we need a change for good, change of baton, from Hope to Success. In a relay, it gets to a point where the fast runner finishes the race, he said.

    “Uzodinma has made impact. He has provided a friendly atmosphere for people and businesses to thrive. I commend him for creating employment opportunities and fighting insecurity,” Akagburuonye added.

    The aspirant, who spoke with reporters in Lagos,  empharised the importance of succession, saying that  Uzodimma’s  successor should have a proven record of integrity. He stressed that if the governor can handover to a competent person, Imo would be better for it.

    No fewer than 12 indigenes across the political parties and local governments have unfolded their aspirations.

    Akagburuonye said: “Though am not a politician,  I am a professional in politics with verifiable integrity, achievements, and I believe am the best man for the job.”

    He said power should be fought for, noting the advice of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that power is not served a la carte.

    “Power should be fought for. It may not be a straight road. I believe with God on my side, I will be able to serve my people and serve them well.

    Read Also: Police urge NLC to shelve Tuesday’s planned protest

    “I am a lawyer and and I believe that Uzodimma should hand over the baton to the best person to continue with his legacies.

    “Imo state is not an easy one to govern. Over the years, there had  been controversies of integrity. Uzodimma has set the pace that needs the right man to fit in. I am that man. Imo state  has been trailed by governance below expectations before Uzodimma’s administration.

    “What the people need now is someone with integrity, who can continue with Uzodimma’s legacies. The present administration in Imo state has surpassed itself in infrastructural development and empowerment of the people. Uzodimma’s successor must be ready to continue with it,” he added.

    However, Akagburuonye never disclosed his platform, saying that the non-disclosure is strategic.

    “The platform is not the issue now. What is important is getting the right candidate. Ikedi Ohakim did not emerge from a popular party. He emerged from PPA. God can choose you and make people to work for you.”

    The aspirant reflected on zoning, saying that it is the turn of Owerri Senatorial Zone.

    “I believe in the charter of equity. I believe it could be me. Sentido Hope Uzodimma has said it is the turn of Owerri to be governor. That is why I am contesting. He is the governor now. He has spoken on the charter of unity. Power should shift to Owerri Zone.”he said.

    Noting that rotation would foster equity, Akagburuonye added: Orlu Zone produced former Governors Achike Udenwa ,  Rochas Okorocha and Uzodimma. Okigwe zone also produced former Governor Ikedi Ohakiim, leaving out Owerri zone.

    ” There has been controversy over Okigwe zone having another four years to complete Ohakim’s tenure. This argument is far fetched because Owerri is yet to have any term. We must be allowed this time.

    “If Uzodimma makes true his pronouncement that it is the turn of Owerri zone, it would be one of his greatest equity legacies. “

    Akagburuonye insisted that zoning should be factored into the Imo power arrangement as “all fingers are not equal.

    “Currently, there are 12 LGAs in Orlu zone, Nine in Owerri and Six in Okigwe. If zoning is not allowed, it means that to get power out of Orlu Zone will be a huge problem.”

    On why  he felt he could succeed Uzodimma,   the aspirant said that his philanthropy which across the councils would speak for him.

    “My achievement are verifiable. I won’t steal money because I don’t need money that I will not use,” he said.

    No fewer than 300,000 people have been trained under his solar empowerment programme. The aspirant also floats the ‘Believers of the Gospel Care Foundation, which takes care of the people across faiths and shares their burdens.

    He said hw would not stay in Government House. He also said he would have offices across the local governments to enable him monitor developments in the state.

    Akagburuonye disclosed that he has declared his asset, adding that his life is an open book.

    He reflected on his ordeal as a real estate operator when for 20 years, his lands were seized, but later restored.

    He promised to set up a transparent government. But the contender ruled out probing his predecessors,  if elected.

    “I won’t probe anybody when I get to power. You just do your best. The truth will come out one day,” he added.

  • Ojelabi calls for unity in Badagry Division

    Ojelabi calls for unity in Badagry Division

    The Chairman All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Cornelius Oyefolu Ojelabi, has urged the people of Badagry Division to unite and work for development.

    He assured the people that the grassroots competition—Ojelabi Football Competition, will be a regular programme.

    The tournament, which is aimed at identifying and rewarding outstanding talents and engender peace within the Badagry Division of Lagos State, is sponsored by Ojelabi.

    The first edition of the competition tagged: ‘Ojelabi Football Competition Badagry Division’ featured 74 teams from 10 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas within Badagry division. 

    The tourney came to an end last Saturday, as Sporting Hotspurs of Ajeromi-Ifelodun emerged champions after a 2-0 victory over LASU Blazers of Ojo in the final match held at the Lagos State University playing field on Saturday.

    After goalless first half, Sporting Hotspurs scored a two brilliant second half goals to emerge winner and went home with the trophy and a cash award of one million naira. LASU Blazers were rewarded with N750, 000 for winning silver medal.

    In the losers’ final, Abiodun Kings of Ato-Awori defeated New Era of Badagry by 1-0 to claim bronze medal and a sum of N500, 000. 

    Speaking at the Closing Ceremony/Grand finale, Ojelabi said the competition is an opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of football in the Division.

    Read Also: FG, states, councils share ₦1.969tr December revenue at FAAC meeting

    “The major objectives of initiating and organising this competition were to promote inter-ethnic unity and harmony, identify and reward outstanding talents, and engender peace within the Badagry Division of Lagos State which has produced several national stars like Sunday Olise, Emmanuel Amunike, etc.,” Ojelabi said.

    He added: “It is particularly gratifying to note that since the opening ceremony on Saturday, 15th November 2025, at LASUED, no incidence of violence or disruption was recorded. This is particularly encouraging when you remember that altogether many teams from the LGAs and LCDAs within the Division took part in the competition.

    I am also very happy that 86 matches have been played up to the semi-final stage without any formal protest received.

     “I am equally grateful to the members of the LOC, who have not disappointed us but have proven their experience in Sports Administration. I also commend all the teams, players, coaches, the media, security,  medical personnel, and supporters/fans of all the various teams for adding color to the competition without any violence.”

    The highlights of closing ceremony/grand finale include awards for the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goals Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, Best Behave Team among others.

    It is understood that many scouts and coaches of big clubs watched many of the matches to pick outstanding players.

    Thrilled with the success of the first edition and his resolve to make a meaningful impact in the youths in Lagos State, Honourable Ojelabi has announced that the competition which is being organised within Badagry division will be expanded to cover all councils and LCDAs within Lagos West Senatorial District starting from the next edition.

    He made a promise of N20 million to the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the organisation of the next edition of the competition.

    The chairman also revealed that a mini-stadium will be erected at Isasi for the benefit of the people of Badagry division.

    In his remarks, the chairman of the LOC, Mr Deji Williams commended Hon Ojelabi for sponsoring the tournament.

    He presented a proposal for a SPORTS ACADEMY to be named OJELABI SPORTS ACADEMY(OSA). The academy, according to him, is to ensure that all discovered talents are brought together under this platform and to involve five other sports aside football namely Athletics, Basketball, Volleyball, Table Tennis and Tennis.

    “Let me emphasise that what I submit today is a paperwork expecting the perusal and consideration for approval for a final BLUEPRINT to be submitted,” Mr Williams stated.

    Dignitaries at the final match on Saturday include Royal fathers, Hon. Commissioner for Tertiary Education Lagos State, Tolani Sule, Members of Lagos State House of Assembly, Executive Chairmen of Local Government and LCDAs in Badagry, respected political leaders, the representatives of Vice Chancellors of LASU and LASUED, erudite Academics, Community/Religious Leaders, members of the MOC, LOC, Sport Administration and member of the press.

  • 2027: Group praises Yilwatda’s  support for governor

    2027: Group praises Yilwatda’s  support for governor

    A group, Plateau Vanguard for Democracy (PVD), has hailed the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, for what it described as his humility, maturity and sense of purpose in rallying both new and old members of the party toward building a united Plateau.

    In a statement issued by its National Chairman, Christopher Ishaku, the group said Prof. Yilwatda’s leadership style reflects a deep commitment to reconciliation and inclusive politics at a time when the state needs collective resolve.

    PVD particularly lauded Yilwatda’s public declaration that he would personally lead the second-term campaign drive of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, describing the move as a strong signal of unity and stability within the party.

    According to the statement, “Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has demonstrated uncommon humility and statesmanship. His decision to rally all tendencies within the APC and to spearhead the second-term campaign of Governor Caleb Mutfwang shows that Plateau’s interest is greater than personal ambition.”

    The group noted that the Plateau has endured painful years of division, insecurity, criminality and terrorist attacks that disrupted communities and undermined development. It stressed that the only pathway to lasting peace and prosperity lies in unity of purpose among political actors and citizens alike.

    Read Also: Police urge NLC to shelve Tuesday’s planned protest

    PVD therefore called on supporters of Governor Mutfwang to be gracious and accommodating in embracing the interests and leadership role of the APC National Chairman, emphasizing that harmony between the governor and the national leadership of the party is critical to sustaining progress.

    “We urge all supporters of the governor to rise above narrow sentiments and work collaboratively with the national chairman. This is not the time for internal rivalry but for collective action,” the statement added.

    The group maintained that a united Plateau under a cohesive APC would be better positioned to defeat the forces of criminality and terrorism that had rampaged parts of the state in recent years.

    PVD concluded by urging all stakeholders—political leaders, youth groups, women, traditional institutions and civil society—to close ranks and work together for peace, development and a secure future for Plateau State.

  • Wike/Anyanwu PDP faction holds national convention March 28

    Wike/Anyanwu PDP faction holds national convention March 28

    The Nyesom Wike/Sam Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has fixed March 28 and 29 for national convention to elect leaders to pilot the affairs of the party.

    In a communique at the end of its National Executive Committee Meeting by the Acting National Chairman of the faction, Abdulrahman Mohammed and the Acting National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the faction applauded the judgement of the Federal High Court in Ibadan, which validated its existence.

    The communique reaffirmed the absolute belief of the faction in the independence of the Judiciary and the sanctity of the rule of law as the cornerstones of democracy and constitutional governance in Nigeria.

    The communique reads: ‘The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held its 105th Meeting on MONDAY, 2ND FEBRUARY 2026, in Abuja. 

    “After extensive deliberations on the state of the Party, the political environment, recent judicial developments, and preparations for forthcoming internal processes, NEC unanimously reconfirmed, ratified, and reaffirmed the full content, validity, force, and effect of all resolutions and decisions reached at the Emergency 104th NEC Meeting held on Sunday, 7th December 2025.

    “NEC emphasised that all actions taken pursuant to the 104th NEC resolutions remain binding, lawful, and operative, having been taken in strict compliance with the PDP Constitution (as amended), the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), the Electoral Act, and relevant judicial pronouncements.

    “NEC reaffirmed its absolute belief in the independence of the Judiciary and the sanctity of the rule of law as the cornerstone of democracy and constitutional governance in Nigeria.

    “In this regard, NEC welcomed and affirmed the judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, which upheld the legality of the Party’s leadership and administrative arrangements and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognize the duly constituted National Caretaker Committee of the PDP in line with the law.

    Read Also: Wike inaugurates, NDDC 9.4km road, 1,500-seater hall in Rivers community

    “NEC resolved that all Party organs, members, and stakeholders shall continue to act strictly in obedience to subsisting court judgments and judicial directives, and urged INEC and all relevant institutions to fully comply with the said judgment in the interest of democracy and constitutional order.

    “NEC once again reaffirmed the legitimacy, authority, and mandate of the Abdulrahman Muhammed-led National Caretaker Committee, with Senator Samuel N. Anyanwu as Secretary, as earlier constituted and endorsed.

    “NEC reiterated that the National Caretaker Committee remains the only lawful national administrative organ of the Party, fully empowered to act as the National Working Committee (NWC) pending the conduct of the

    National Convention.

    “Pursuant to its constitutional responsibilities and in line with preparations for a smooth transition to an elected leadership, NEC approved and confirmed the  schedule for Party Congresses nationwide.

    “NEC directed the National Caretaker Committee, in collaboration with the National Organizing Secretary and relevant organs of the Party, to issue detailed quidelines, notices, and modalities for the conduct of the congresses in strict compliance with the PDP Constitution, INEC Regulations, and judicial directives.

    “NEC further approved and confirmed MARCH 28th and 29th, 2026, as the date for the PDP National Convention, to be held at ABUJA, for the purpose of electing members of the National Working Committee and other statutory organs of the Party.

    “NEC affirmed the extention of the tenure of the National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC), and others affected Caretaker Committees  of the State and Zonal Chapters pending the conduct of the National Convention, State and Zonal Congresses respectively. 

    “NEC mandated the National Caretaker Committee to immediately activate Convention Sub-Committees and Commence full logistical, all administrative, and consultative preparations to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and credible Convention.

    “NEC called on all members of the Party at all levels to remain united, disciplined, and loyal to the PDP, eschew actions capable of undermining Party cohesion, and place the collective interest of the Party above personal considerations.

    “NEC reaffirmed that the PDP remains committed to rebuilding a strong, disciplined, democratic, and electorally competitive Party capable of providing credible leadership and governance to Nigerians.

    “NEC expressed confidence that the resolutions of the 105th NEC Meeting will strengthen internal democracy, restore stability, and reposition the Party for future electoral success.

    “The Committee urged all stakeholders, supporters, and members of the PDP across the country and in the diaspora to remain steadfast, law-abiding, and committed to the ideals of the Party.”

  • Uzodimma chairs central coordination committee for APC national convention 

    Uzodimma chairs central coordination committee for APC national convention 

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has constituted a 73-member Central Coordination Committee for the 2026 National Convention slated for March 2026.

    Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Hope Uzodimma, will chair the Committee while Chairman Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Kwara Governor,  AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, will serve as Vice Chairman while the former National Caretaker Committee Chairman and Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni is named Secretary of the Committee. 

    The constitution of the committee was contained in a statement by the National Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Basiru, in Abuja on Monday night.

    The NWC at its 183rd meeting last Friday constituted the Committee after wide consultation with various statutory organs and critical stakeholders of the party.

    All the 29 Governors elected under the platform of the party are members of the committee. Also on the committee are former National Chairmen of the party – Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Adams Oshiomole and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

    Read Also: Hope Uzodimma’s staying power

    Other members are the Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin; Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu; former Senate Presidents and Speakers of House of Representatives who are members of the party, are also appointed to serve on the committee.

    Also on the committee are serving and former principal officers of the two chambers of the National Assembly.

    Members of the Federal Executive Council of the committee include Minister of Budget Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Defence General Christopher Musa; Information Minister, Mohammed Idris Malagi, Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Giadam.

    The details for the inauguration of the committee will be announced later.

  • PDP BoT, caretaker factional chairman moves to end crisis

    PDP BoT, caretaker factional chairman moves to end crisis

    …holds NEC meeting in Abuja

    Following the outcome of a Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State, last Friday, which nullified the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention held in the city between15 and 16 November, 2025, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified moves to overcome its internal crisis.

    The Board of Trustees (BoT) and the National Caretaker Committee reaffirmed commitment to unity, respect for court rulings and preparations for outstanding congresses ahead of a national convention.

    BOT chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa who spoke on Monday at the 85th meeting of the PDP BoT in Abuja urged party members to embrace peace and put collective interest above personal ambition.

    Ohuabunwa said the PDP had weathered months of turbulence marked by leadership disputes and legal battles, but survived due to its strong institutions and adherence to constitutional order.

    According to him, the delay in conducting party congresses was a deliberate and cautious decision taken out of respect for pending judicial processes, not an abdication of responsibility.

    He said, “The PDP chose legality over expediency and patience over provocation. History would judge the party kindly for upholding the rule of law.”

    The Bot chairman hailed the judicial pronouncements, particularly the Federal High Court judgment in Ibadan, which affirmed the legitimacy of the Abdulrahman-led National Caretaker Committee, and called on party members to respect the judiciary and comply with lawful decisions.

    Ohuabunwa warned against divisive rhetoric and actions capable of undermining democratic institutions, stressing that the moral authority of the BoT lies in fairness, balance and due process.

    “With the legal fog lifting, the focus must now shift to reconciliation, rebuilding trust and laying the groundwork for orderly congresses and a credible national convention,” he said, noting that unity was a strategic imperative for the survival of the party.

    In his remarks, National Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee, Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed, thanked members of the BoT for their steadfast support, describing it as crucial to the stability of the party at a defining moment.

    Mohammed also expressed gratitude to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory for standing by the Caretaker Committee, saying the support had strengthened its resolve to reposition the party.

    He said the Christmas and New Year holidays were over and that it was time for decisive action to deliver on the mandate given to the Caretaker Committee to put the PDP back on track.

    The caretaker chairman confirmed that the Ibadan High Court had delivered a declaratory judgment in favour of the committee, stressing that the law was clear and that justice would continue to be pursued for the party.

    Read Also: Zamfara former council chairman dump PDP to APC

    “Any moment from now, we shall roll out a timetable for activities relating to outstanding congresses in some states, which will usher in a seamless national convention,” he disclosed.

    Mohammed described the PDP as the only political party built around the people, with nationwide structures, coherence and verifiable legacies, warning that the party could not afford to “sleep in our hands.”

    He also commended party stakeholders across the country for their unwavering support during what he described as defining times for the opposition party.

    Both leaders expressed optimism that ongoing engagements, reconciliation efforts and planned congresses would reposition the PDP as a strong and credible alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    The party members are currently in a closed door National Executive Council (NEC) meeting with a large turnout of members across the country.   

  • APC dismisses ADC’s claim of coercing civil servants into e-registration

    APC dismisses ADC’s claim of coercing civil servants into e-registration

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed as baseless the allegation by the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) that the ruling party is coercing civil servants to participate in its ongoing electronic registration exercise.

    The APC said the claim reflects the ADC’s intimidation and anxiety over what it described as the massive turnout of Nigerians identifying with and joining the ruling party.

    At the weekend, the ADC raised concerns over reports that civil servants in some states were allegedly being compelled to register for the APC through its e-registration platform.

    The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, warned in a statement that such actions, if true, would amount to economic coercion and forced political affiliation.

    Responding on Monday in Abuja, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the allegation as entirely false and without foundation.

    Morka said the opposition party was unsettled by the success of the e-registration exercise and was resorting to false claims in an attempt to discredit the process.

    The statement read, “Terrified by the massive All Progressives Congress (APC) membership registration in the ongoing electronic-registration exercise, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has made a nonsensical allegation that civil servants are being pressured to participate in our party’s E-Registration exercise.

    Read Also: APC will deliver massive votes for Tinubu, Oborevwori in Delta — Dafinone

    “That claim is entirely false and baseless and seeks to cast a shadow over the cutting-edge and groundbreaking digitization of our Party’s membership register.”

    Accusing ADC of resorting to a disinformation campaign, Morka recalled the fabrication and circulation of a fake “APC membership slip”, purporting that a notorious terrorist had registered as a member of APC.

    He argued that millions of Nigerians who were inspired by the visible gains and impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda have trooped out to voluntarily register for the party without any coercion.

    He also noted that the massive turnout of Nigerians compelled the leadership of the party to yield to popular demand to extend the period of registration from January 31 to February 8, 2026.

    Trashing the allegation, Morka noted, “The ADC is intimidated by the phenomenal success of our Party’s E-Registration exercise, for obvious reasons.”  He, however, argued that “that cannot justify concocting and spewing lies in an attempt to smear the exercise.”

    He concluded that while the ADC continues to fumble and peddle falsehood, APC would remain focused on its onward march as Africa’s standard-bearer of digital and democratic innovation. 

  • APC will deliver massive votes for Tinubu, Oborevwori in Delta — Dafinone

    APC will deliver massive votes for Tinubu, Oborevwori in Delta — Dafinone

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) on Sunday declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure overwhelming victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the 2027 general elections.

    He spoke wjen  the Sapele chapter of the Okpe, Sapele and Uvwie Federal Constituency, OSU, was inaugurated.

    Dafinone, who addressed thousands of party members and supporters at the Sapele Local Government Council Secretariat, Sapele, said the APC was not aiming for narrow victories but for massive votes that would strengthen the constituency’s political relevance.

    According to him, Sapele’s performance at the polls would determine the level of attention and development it attracts, stressing that strong voter turnout was critical to the area’s future.

    The senator urged party members to demonstrate unity and visible loyalty to both the state and federal governments, noting that sustained support for President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was necessary for the dividends of democracy to reach the grassroots.

    He congratulated the newly inaugurated executives of the Sapele chapter of OSU, assuring them of the support of his office and charging them to ensure that the APC recorded clear victories across all wards in the area.

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    The inauguration attracted a large turnout of supporters from across Sapele, with the council secretariat and adjoining spaces filled by party members dressed predominantly in yellow and white colours.

    OSU Coordinator, Chief Solomon Ighrakpata, said the OSU structure was formed on April 4, 2025, to rally support for what he described as a performing government at both the federal and state levels.

    Ighrakpata noted that the body brought together members across political and ethnic lines, united by confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori.

    A former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Delta State, Barr Kingsley Esiso, who also addressed the gathering, said the objective of OSU was to ensure that Governor Oborevwori returned to Government House in 2027.

    He urged the newly inaugurated executives to immediately commence grassroots mobilisation, including party registration and voter engagement across communities in Sapele.

    Deputy Chairman of the APC in Delta State, Chief Paulinus Akpeki, said the turnout reflected growing confidence in the APC, adding that the party was consolidating its base ahead of the next general elections.