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Category: Politics

  • Tinubu’s achievements have shamed opposition – Wike

    Tinubu’s achievements have shamed opposition – Wike

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has said President Bola Tinubu’s achievements within two years in office have shamed the opposition.

    Wike urged Nigerians and FCT residents to continue to support Tinubu, adding that he will support anybody that supports President Tinubu.

    Wike declared the ongoing wave of infrastructure flag-offs and project commissioning across the territory represents an unprecedented record in the history of the FCT.

    He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for reviving long-abandoned projects and restoring public confidence in governance.

    Speaking during the inauguration of the Wuye Engineering Infrastructure Project, Wike challenged critics to name any previous administration that has matched the current pace of transformation under Tinubu’s leadership.

    “If there’s any administration since the creation of the Federal Capital Territory that has done more than what we are doing, let them speak up now. Their silence says it all,this is leadership that is committed, leadership that is changing lives. Tinubu’s administration has shamed the opposition,” Wike declared.

    According to the Minister, many of the projects being inaugurated today have been abandoned since 2009 due to non-payment of contractors. 

    He explained the Tinubu administration took decisive steps to revive them, leading to massive infrastructural development in the Gwagwalada District, including new road networks, sectoral arterials, tunnels, and utility services.

    “When this administration came in, the President took immediate steps to revive what had been neglected. Within one year in office, major projects were completed, including the interchange that once caused traffic chaos in the area,” he noted.

    Wike further announced that after 20 straight days of commissioning and inauguration events, the FCT Administration would take a short break before embarking on another 20-day phase focused on education development, where he promised to unveil the government’s achievements in schools and learning facilities across the capital.

     “Our work is not only about roads and infrastructure; it also extends to education. For twenty more days, we will show Nigerians what we have done in that sector, and it will surprise many,” Wike said.

    Expressing gratitude to FCTA staff, Area Council Chairmen, and Councillors, the Minister praised their dedication and described their efforts as record-breaking.

    He reaffirmed commitment to supporting all political leaders who align with the President’s vision, adding that a “political tsunami” of performance-driven governance is sweeping through the territory.

    Wike said: “Those in real estate used to complain: No roads, no infrastructure, our businesses are collapsing. Can you still say that today? Every day you see progress because infrastructure has been provided. That’s what development looks like.

    “My dear people, look around you. If you live here, if you have property here, your conscience will tell you the truth, that leadership has returned to this country. The Renewed Hope Agenda is real. Forget my face; what matters is the work being done”.

    Wike also commended the Area Council Chairmen and councilors for their partnership and commitment.

    He said: “From Airport Road to Kuje, the results speak for themselves. Go there and see what this administration is doing. The difference is clear.

    “We are not going to rush, we are going to shock them with what we have done in the education sector, so that they will know that President Tinubu’s administration is not only concentrating on the infrastructure in the FCT, as regards to the network of roads, it is also focusing on the education sector”.

  • Supreme Court reserves judgment in PDP Governors’ suit over Rivers’ emergency rule

    Supreme Court reserves judgment in PDP Governors’ suit over Rivers’ emergency rule

    The Supreme Court has reserved judgment till a date to be communicated to the parties in a suit challenging the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. 

    A seven-member panel, presided over by Justice John Okoro made the announcement on Tuesday after lawyers to the parties made their final submissions and adopted what they filed.

    The suit was originally filed by the 10 states controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through their Attorneys General, with the Federal Government and the National Assembly listed as defendants.

    At the commencement of proceedings on Tuesday, Delta State announced its withdrawal from the case having filed a notice of discountinuance to that effect.

    Lawyers to other parties did not object, following which the court struck out Delta State’s name from the suit.

    In his submission, plaintiffs’ lawyer, Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), said his clients’ case is not denying the President’s power to proclaim a state of emergency.

    Jegede added that the suit is questioning the extent to which the proclamation of an emergency rule could be made to affect the offices of the governor, deputy governor, and the House of Assembly.

    He prayed the court to uphold the plaintiffs’ case and grant all the reliefs sought.

    On his part, lawyer to the Federal Government, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) argued against the competence of the case and urged the court to dismiss it

    Fagbemi, who is the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, said: “The more I look at the plaintiffs’ action, the more I am convinced it is speculative and lacks merit.” 

    The AGF argued that Rivers State was engulfed in a political crisis involving the governor, deputy governor, and lawmakers when the President acted, adding that no responsible government would sit back and allow part of the country to burn without taking any action.

    He further argued that the President did not act out of discretion, but discharged a constitutional obligation to safeguard democracy, life, and property. 

    As against the claim by the plaintiffs, Fagbemi said elected officials in Rivers State were not removed, but merely suspended, adding that the suspension was an extraordinary measure adopted in response to an extraordinary situation. 

    Fagbemi added: “The President therefore had to act and act fast to safeguard the state.

    “My lords, the starting point is the judgement of the Supreme Court, wherein your lordships held that as things were at that time, there was no government and governance in Rivers State.

    “Therefore, the President had no choice, but a duty to act in the best interest of the state. What he did was to suspend the protagonists, not remove them. Rivers was in an extraordinary situation, and that required taking extraordinary measures to restore peace and protect democracy,” Fagbemi said.

    He argued that those, directly affected by the proclamation were not before the court, adding that the plaintiffs were trying to be more Catholic than the Pope.

    Also seeking the dismissal of the suit, lawyer to the National Assembly, Charles Yohila adopted the arguments by the AGF.

    In his reply, Jegede argued that while extraordinary circumstances could be deployed to justify firm executive action, such measures must no exceed constitutional boundary. 

    Jegede added: “Extraordinary measures will not contain illegal and unconstitutional measures, sir.”

  • Only Benue PDP Rep joins APC

    Only Benue PDP Rep joins APC

    Tony Akowe, AbujaThe only Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member of the House of Representatives from Benue State, Ojema Ojotu on Tuesday dumped the party and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    In the letter of defection read at plenary by Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, the lawmaker hinged his decision to leave the PDP on the protracted crisis in the party at all levels which has not been resolved. 

    The defection of Ojotu, which was witnessed by Benue Deputy Governor, Samuel Ode, leaves the Senate Minority Whip, Senator Abba Moro, as the only PDP federal lawmaker in the State. 

    Read Also: You signed letter to INEC, PDP fires back at Anyanwu

    Ojotu said he resigned his membership of the PDP on October 8 because of the internal crisis in the party and unresolved issues which have made it impossible for him to serve his people well. 

    Minority Whip of the House, Aliyu Sani Madaki asked the Presiding Officer to declare the seat vacant in line with the provision of section 68(1g) of the Constitution since there was no crisis within the folds of the PDP. 

  • PDP Gov aspirant promises to transform Ekiti economy

    PDP Gov aspirant promises to transform Ekiti economy

    A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Ekiti State, Otunba Olugbenga Peter Obafemi, has pledged to reposition the State for accelerated development, economic growth and regional collaboration if elected governor in the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

    Speaking during an engagement with key stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti state capital, Obafemi said the future of Ekiti lies in pragmatic leadership, strategic partnerships, and people-centered governance. 

    The PDP chieftain promised to deploy his vast experience as a successful businessman and aviation expert to transform the state from a dependent economy to a self-sustaining and productive one.

    According to him, Ekiti is naturally endowed with rich agricultural potential that has remained untapped. He said his administration would maximize this advantage to banish hunger, reduce poverty, and create wealth for the people.

    “Development cannot thrive in isolation. Ekiti must work hand in hand with neighboring states to create economic corridors that will expand trade, improve infrastructure, and strengthen our shared prosperity,” Obafemi stated.

    He assured his government would work closely with other Southwest governors through the DAWN Commission and the newly established Southwest Development Commission to harness regional opportunities. 

    He added that Ekiti state would  also build partnerships through the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to accelerate progress and shared growth, adding that he would leverage his wide connections to attract investors as well as stimulate industrialization. 

    Read Also: PDP convention: Anyanwu protests forgery in letter to INEC

    “The priority of my administration will be to create an enabling environment for private investments to thrive. We will focus on establishing small and medium-scale industries that will drive employment and empower our people,” he said.

    Obafemi also pledged to transform the Ekiti Knowledge Zone into a fully functional innovation hub that attracts global investment and nurtures homegrown talent. 

    According to him, the Knowledge Zone will no longer remain a concept on paper but will become a living reality that redefines Ekiti’s economy through research, technology, and industrial development.

    Highlighting his vision for tourism, the governorship hopeful said that his administration would harness the state’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage sites to position Ekiti as a major tourism destination in Nigeria. 

    He noted that tourism has the potential to boost internally generated revenue and open up new opportunities for local communities.

    “Our goal is to make Ekiti not just a land of honor but a land of enterprise and opportunity — a place where ideas meet action and people truly thrive,” he emphasized.

    Describing himself as a man of integrity, discipline, and vision, Obafemi said he is prepared to serve with transparency and accountability for collective the progress of the state

    “I am a responsible, hardworking, and reliable administrator with no blemish. I will ensure that every kobo of Ekiti’s resources is used for the good of our people,” he affirmed.

    The PDP chieftain further assured that his administration would promote peace, unity, and security, noting that meaningful development is only possible in an atmosphere of stability. 

    “I am a man of peace and a lover of peace. I will be a governor and father to all, irrespective of political affiliation. My administration will place high premium on security to ensure that our people live and work in peace,” he said.

  • APC group hails Matawalle, Yari for unity, renewed political strength in Zamfara

    APC group hails Matawalle, Yari for unity, renewed political strength in Zamfara

    The APC Solidarity Network for Tinubu has lauded, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawale, for what it described as his exceptional leadership, political maturity and tireless commitment to strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the North West.

    The network also extended warm commendations to former Zamfara Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, praising his unwavering support and close collaboration with Matawalle in strengthening the party’s unity and structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    In a statement on Tuesday by its National Coordinator, Comrade Matthew Attah, the group said Matawalle’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda have made him one of the most outstanding ministers in the current administration.

    The network commended Matawalle for spearheading a “massive wave of defections” into the ruling party in Zamfara State, describing the development as a clear testament to his political influence and grassroots appeal.

    “Bello Matawalle has not only delivered on his responsibilities as Minister of State for Defence but has also been instrumental in rebuilding the APC’s political strength across the North West. 

    Read Also: Group hails Matawalle for APC’s strong performance in Zamfara bye-election

    “Under his watch, Zamfara State has witnessed a massive exodus of people into the party, making the APC the most formidable political force in the region,” the statement reads.

    The group vowed to resist any campaign of calumny against the Minister, warning that it would not tolerate attempts to undermine his achievements or question his loyalty to President Tinubu.

    “No individual or group of persons will be allowed to tarnish the image of one of the most performing ministers in this administration. Matawalle’s dedication, both to his ministerial duties and to advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, has delivered superlative results for Nigeria and the North West in particular,” the group said.

    According to the group, the synergy between the two former Governor, Yari and Matawalle, has sent a powerful message of cohesion and renewed determination within the Zamfara APC, reinforcing confidence that the state will deliver a landslide victory for President Tinubu and the party.

    “It is heartwarming to see that both Matawalle and Senator Yari are working assiduously, day and night, to ensure the total victory of the APC in Zamfara and across the North West. 

    “Their renewed partnership is reassuring, and their shared vision for progress is proof that history is about to be made again in Zamfara politics,” the statement added.

    The group noted the harmonious relationship between the two leaders has re-energised the APC base in the state, bridging political divides and restoring confidence among party loyalists.

    “By putting the interest of the party and the success of Mr President first, Matawalle and Yari have shown what true leadership and statesmanship mean. Their unity is a powerful signal that the APC in Zamfara is now stronger, more focused, and more prepared than ever before.”

    The APC Solidarity Network for Tinubu described both leaders as “pillars of hope and progress” whose joint efforts will ensure that Zamfara remains an unshakable APC stronghold as the countdown to 2027 begins.

    “With their continued collaboration and shared commitment to the Renewed Hope vision, there is no doubt that Zamfara State will be 100 percent APC come 2027,” the group declared.

  • INEC to begin PVC distribution, conduct mock accreditation Wednesday

    INEC to begin PVC distribution, conduct mock accreditation Wednesday

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will tomorrow, October 22, 2025, commence the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and conduct a mock accreditation exercise in Anambra State ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

    According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi, the PVC distribution exercise will run from October 22 to 26 for voters who registered during the recently concluded Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).

    Eta-Messi urged eligible voters to visit their respective registration areas to collect their PVCs, emphasizing that collection must be done in person. She reiterated that no collection by proxy will be allowed under any circumstance.

    “All registered voters are urged to ensure they collect their PVCs within the specified period to be eligible to vote in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra,” Eta-Messi said.

    The INEC spokesperson also announced that the mock accreditation exercise will take place on Saturday, October 25, across selected polling units in the state’s three senatorial districts.

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    She explained that the exercise aims to test the upgraded Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), assess its response time, and verify the uploading of results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) ahead of the main election.

    Eta-Messi listed the polling units selected for the mock exercise as follows: Anambra Central: Amawbia II (03), Igwédimma Primary School I & II (006, 007), Idemili North Nkpor II (06), Ububa Village Square (035), Awka South LGA.

    Anambra North: Nteje III (07), Girls Secondary School, Nteje (005); Nteje IV (08), State Primary School, Nteje (002), Oyi LGA; Aguleri II (02), Central School (001), and Umunoke Public Square I (002), Anambra East LGA.

    Anambra South: Ekwulobia I (06), Central School, Ekwulobia (003); Ekwulobia II (07), Urban Girls Secondary School, Ekwulobia (009), Aguata LGA; Ajalli I (01), Primary School (007), and RCM KDT School (011), Orumba North LGA.

    Eta-Messi encouraged registered voters in the affected polling units to actively participate in the mock accreditation, noting that their involvement would help INEC fine-tune its operational and technological processes before the election.

  • Coalition lauds Oyebanji’s infrastructure renaissance

    Coalition lauds Oyebanji’s infrastructure renaissance

    The Rights Monitoring Group (RMG) has lauded Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, noting that his administration had become synonymous with peace, inclusive governance and infrastructure-driven progress.

    RMG, a coalition of 55 civil society organisations focused on electoral reform and sustainable development, said the prevailing peace and harmony in Ekiti were not coincidental, but the outcome of sustained dialogue, lawful consultation, and adherence to constitutional principles.

    “Governor Oyebanji’s administration stands today as a textbook illustration of how peace, law and inclusive politics can coexist within a democratic framework,” the group said.

    It observed that in a federation where political contestation often degenerated into acrimony, the prevailing unanimity of purpose among Ekiti’s political actors, including opposition leaders, was both legally and politically unprecedented.

    According to the RMG, ‘’this consensus reaffirms the constitutional principle that governance is a continuum and underscores the duty of every elected government to promote peace, order and good governance as envisaged under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’’

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    In a statement by its Acting National Coordinator, Dr. Leke Alao, the group said  Oyebanji’s government had judiciously fulfilled the constitutional obligation.

    “Through proactive conflict-management mechanisms, traditional institutions have been re-empowered to mediate disputes, significantly reducing incidence of farmers–herders clashes and rural banditry.

    “Kidnapping, once endemic, has been curtailed through strategic coordination between local vigilance groups and state security apparatuses,” the statement read.

    The RMG commended the state’s monumental infrastructure projects, from road networks to health care facilities, describing them as lawful appropriations of public funds under the Fiscal Responsibility Act and models of sound budgetary governance.

    Such prudence, the group noted, reinforced the public trust doctrine and strengthened the legitimacy of governmental actions.

    “It is the considered view of the Rights Monitoring Group that Ekiti’s experience offers a legal and governance model for intergovernmental cooperation and subnational stability within the Nigerian federation,” it added.

  • Lagos APC slams opposition over #FreeNnamdiKanuProtest

    Lagos APC slams opposition over #FreeNnamdiKanuProtest

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has condemned organisers of FreeNnamdiKanuProtest for creating tension in some parts of the Southeast.

    Stressing that it is politically-motivated, the chapter flayed the organisers for reckless and bitter politics, and abuse of freedom of expression.

    Lagos APC Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo said in a statement that the protest was carefully scripted by desperate opposition figures, who saw chaos as their last political weapon.

    The statement said: “This so-called protest is not about justice; it is about political frustration. It represents the height of bitter, destructive politics – an attempt by those who have been roundly rejected by Nigerians at the polls to exploit national issues in search of cheap relevance.

    “We find it deeply disturbing that certain opposition leaders, who should know better, are shamelessly endorsing and sponsoring these street theatrics.

    “Their involvement reveals what can only be described as a classic case of the Biblical hand of Jacob but the voice of Esau – deceitful manipulation hiding behind the façade of activism. But let them be reminded: they will not gain in the streets what they have disgracefully lost at the polls.

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    “The insensitivity of the organisers and their sponsors is shocking. At a time when the Southeast is still bleeding from years of mindless bloodshed, kidnappings and enforced sit-at-home orders – all consequences of violent agitation – these individuals have chosen to mock the memories of the victims.

    “They ignore the tears of widows, the pains of orphans and the devastation of communities ruined by senseless violence. Their protest is not a demand for justice; it is a betrayal of the sacrifices of the innocent.

    “For years, ordinary citizens in the Southeast have lived in fear – traders afraid to open their shops, transporters grounded by threats, children deprived of education, and families shattered by insecurity.

    “Yet, instead of standing with their people to heal these wounds, these political opportunists have returned to fan the embers of division, hoping to profit from instability.

    “Let it be clear: no one is above the law. The case of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu remains a judicial matter properly before the courts. Nigeria’s judiciary is competent, independent and capable of delivering justice without recourse to mob pressure or street intimidation.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, through the Renewed Hope Agenda, is working to rebuild the economy, restore investors’ confidence, and foster national unity.

    “His administration has shown remarkable inclusivity, with the Southeast occupying key national positions and benefiting from renewed infrastructural development. True progress will come not from chaos, but from cooperation and peace.

    “Lagos APC therefore calls on security agencies to remain vigilant, and on all patriotic Nigerians – especially leaders of thought in the Southeast – to reject the antics of those who traffic in bitterness. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we must not allow political desperation to tear it apart.”

  • I’ve no plan to join APC, says Adeleke

    I’ve no plan to join APC, says Adeleke

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke said yesterday he had no plan either now or in future to leave Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Adeleke, the deputy chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee of the PDP, also said the party would come out if its current crisis stronger and a better party.

    Adeleke, who spoke shortly after the inaugural meeting of Accommodation Sub-Committee of the convention in Abuja, said everything would be done to ensure the success of the programme.

    READ ALSO: Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

    He said: “As we all know, PDP believes in proper organisation and in doing things the right way, and in accordance with the rule of law. This is exactly what we are doing. We have successfully organised many conventions in the past, and this one will be even more successful.

    “By the special grace of God, PDP will continue to grow from strength to strength. I can assure you that we are meeting and resolving our issues internally. It is a family affair. We do not want anyone outside to add sugar, pepper or salt to the matter. We are handling it ourselves. PDP is a family, and we know how to manage our affairs.’’

  • No plan to join APC, says Adeleke

    No plan to join APC, says Adeleke

    Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke said he has no plan either now or in the near future to leave the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    Adeleke, who is the Deputy Chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee of the PDP, also said the party will come out of its crisis stronger. 

    The Governor, who spoke shortly after the inaugural meeting of the Accomodation Sub-Committee of the convention, said everything would be sorted out so that the convention can proceed smoothly.

    He stated: “Some people say I might be planning to join the APC because I have friends there or have been seen attending their events. I’m a very civilised person. If I have friends in the APC and they invite me to a wedding or social function, I will attend. That doesn’t mean I’m joining them. 

    READ ALSO: President’s spokesman seeks sanction for Kanu’s lawyer over protest participation

    “As we speak, I am the Deputy Chairman of our convention, which holds on the 15th and 16th of October, and I remain a loyal member of the PDP. I also chair the Accommodation Committee.

    “The PDP does not believe in propaganda or endless talk. Many people from other parties are also defecting, that’s politics. Nobody knows what will happen tomorrow, but everyone has the right to do as they wish.

    “Our focus is on unity, organisation and success. By God’s grace, our convention will be a great success, and the PDP will continue to grow from strength to strength. Thank you, and God bless you all.”