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Category: Politics

  • Ekiti 2026: My aspiration not worth blood of any person – Oyebanji

    Ekiti 2026: My aspiration not worth blood of any person – Oyebanji

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has appealed to residents of the state to shun violence and maintain peace as political activities intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election. 

    Oyebanji said that no ambition is worth the shedding of blood, warning that his administration would not tolerate any breakdown of law and order.

    The governor in a statewide broadcast on Tuesday aired on radio and television stations in the state, assured citizens that his government remains committed to protecting lives and property before, during, and after the elections.

    He expressed concern over recent cases of violence allegedly orchestrated by some political actors, noting that such incidents threaten the peace that Ekiti has enjoyed under his watch. 

    Oyebanji noted that security agencies had been fully briefed to prevent political thuggery and ensure Ekiti’s reputation as one of the Nigeria’s most peaceful states is preserved.

    He warned individuals he described as “fifth columnists” against exploiting infrastructural challenges to incite unrest, urging political leaders across parties to rein in their supporters.

    “It should never be heard that members of my party or those sympathetic to us are involved in acts capable of instigating violence. 

    “My aspiration is not worth the precious blood of any Ekiti person. No one is allowed to bully, intimidate or coerce another person. Every Ekiti citizen has a right to freely move around and peacefully canvass for votes,” the Governor said.

    While acknowledging that political tension often rises during electioneering, Oyebanji reminded residents that Ekiti had previously set a benchmark for peaceful elections in Nigeria. 

    He said his administration deliberately ran an inclusive government by bringing opposition voices on board in order to promote peace and development.

    He, therefore urged citizens to go about their legitimate activities without fear, assuring them that security operatives will decisively deal with any attempt to destabilize the state. 

    “The seed of our ambition should not be nurtured with the blood of our followers. The peace of Ekiti is far more important than individual aspirations,” he said. 

  • PDP leaders express optimism over plans for convention, 2027 elections

    PDP leaders express optimism over plans for convention, 2027 elections

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed its readiness for its national convention scheduled for November 15–16, expressing strong optimism about returning to the presidential villa in 2027.

    Speaking at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, PDP national chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum, inaugurated a 119-member national convention organizing committee, assuring members of a smooth and successful exercise.

    Party leaders dismissed fears of division or a possible parallel convention, insisting that such concerns—fueled by loyalists of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike—would not derail their plans.

    Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, stressed that while efforts are ongoing to rally all stakeholders, a convention does not require 100% participation to succeed.

    “Convention is not about excluding anybody; it’s also not a denial of the majority to have their way, because that’s what democracy is all about. If you have 100% involvement, it’s fine, but what matters is an overwhelming majority,” Makarfi said.

    The PDP maintained that its convention will further strengthen its unity and prepare the ground for reclaiming Aso Rock in 2027.

    “In that direction, the party has zoned its positions to. North and South: either of them can sit and do what they wish but that should not deny opportunities for any individual who disagrees by testing his will – just buy the form, go to the field and test your capacity.

    “So, there’s no need for raising temperature, because there will be no exclusion; that has been the tradition since PDP was formed, we must always strive to build consensus,” Makarfi said.

    In his speech, chairman f the PDP Governors Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed stressed that the party’s inclination towards building consensus should not be misinterpreted by anyone as weakness or cowardice.

    “We are not cowards and we are not afraid of any person, we can’t keep quiet and allow people to continue to take us to the slaughter house or take us for granted: enough is enough.

    “We agree to consensus and accommodation but that is not cowardice.

    “If anybody wants to form a faction of fools, we will allow him,” he said in veiled reference to concerns that some Party stakeholders may be heading towards having a parallel national convention.

    In his speech, PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Ilyas Damagum asserted that he was able to lead and achieve some progress over the past two years, adding that some beneficiaries of party opportunities have constituted themselves into ‘destructive voices.’

    Damagum said, “Ironically, many of the destructive voices have come from individuals who have benefited immensely from the PDP; they sought to sow division and weaken our structures.

    “Yet history will record, and analysts will debate, but the consensus will remain that in a time of great difficulty, this National Working Committee, under my leadership, held the line and did a remarkable job,” he said.

    The party chairmen emphasized the significance of the forthcoming national convention as a crucial step towards repositioning PDP and achieving electoral victory in the 2027 general elections.

    Damagum spoke further, “It is often said that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step; today, we take that step forward—towards strengthening and sustaining our great party through the instrumentality of balloting, as we pave the way for the next National Officers who will lead us into the future.

    “This Main Committee for the National Convention is ably chaired by His Excellency Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, with His Excellency Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State as Vice Chairman and His Excellency Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State as Secretary; their competence to undertake this task is well known and unquestionable, and they also reflect the diversity and unity of our PDP family.

    “Leaders, brothers and sisters of the PDP, this National Convention is of critical importance, the National Officers we elect will lead our great party into the next general elections and beyond.

    “We must recognize that the challenges we face as the leading opposition are mutating, much to the dismay of well-meaning Nigerians; while the faction that broke out has not garnered much traction, we know that politics is dynamic, and the ruling class may seek to capitalize on or even sponsor such distractions to weaken the PDP, which remains the only dominant opposition party in our dear country, Nigeri,” Damagum said.

    According to Damagum, the recent by-elections across the country, as well as the local government elections in Port Harcourt, speak eloquently about the challenges confronting the PDP.

    Delivering the vote of thanks at the occasion, PDP’s Deputy National Chairman (South), Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja pointed out that “PDP belongs to the people and not to any individual; no matter what some pple do, insha Allah, we are heading for Aso Rock in 2027,”.

    Those in attendance inilude the chairman of the PDP national convention planning committee, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Governor Seyi Makinde and Governor Bala Mohammed while Governors of Enugu and Osun states were represented by their deputies.

    Also in attendance were former Benue Governor, Samuel Ortom, some members of the National Assembly, PDP National Working Committee and the Board of Trustees.

    Those in attendance include the chairman of the PDP national convention planning committee, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Governor Seyi Makinde and Governor Bala Mohammed while Governors of Enugu and Osun states were represented by their deputies.

    Also in attendance were former Benue Governor, Samuel Ortom, some members of the National Assembly, PDP National Working Committee and the Board of Trustees.

  • Oborevwori tasks APC members, Deltans on voter registration

    Oborevwori tasks APC members, Deltans on voter registration

    Delta state governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to intensify efforts in mobilising eligible voters, particularly those yet to be registered, to participate in the ongoing voters’ registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The governor made the call on Tuesday at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, during an enlarged meeting of party leaders at the ward, local government, and state levels.

    He emphasised that all citizens who attained the age of 18 since the last registration in 2022 should be encouraged to register in order to exercise their franchise in the 2027 general elections.

    Oborevwori explained that the meeting was convened to further strengthen the bond of unity among party stakeholders, stressing that with a united front, the APC was poised for victory at all levels.

    He assured of his synergy with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the collective good of the state and the nation, even as he applauded the commitment of APC leaders at the ward, local government and state levels to the growth and development of the party.

    “With unity in our party, no other political party can defeat the APC. We are performing well at the federal level, and we are equally doing well here in the state. The issue of voters’ registration is very important, and we must take it seriously. From the ward level, ensure that those who could not register before are captured this time,” the Governor said.

    In his remarks, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, reminded elected and appointed members of the party of their duty to return to their wards and local governments to mobilise registrants.

    He noted that working as a team remained the surest way to advance the “Renewed Hope for More Agenda.”

    Earlier in his remarks, the State Chairman of the party, Elder Omeni Sobotie who underscored the importance of unity, urged members of the party to continue to work together in order to enhance the electoral fortunes of the party in future elections in the state.

    Also speaking, a party stakeholder, Chief Solomon Arenyeka, appealed to aggrieved members to bury their differences and work in unity for the growth of the APC and the overall development of the state.

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, the State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr. Valentine Onojeghuo, said the gathering was primarily convened to consolidate party unity and raise awareness for the ongoing voter registration exercise.

    He stressed that unity and loyalty were indispensable for the party’s success in the 2027 polls. 

    “Our first and most important takeaway from this meeting is the unity of the party because without unity, there can be no loyalty. 

    “The second is ensuring that all eligible young people turning 18 are captured in the ongoing registration. Once this is done, the 2027 general elections will be a walkover for our party,” Onojeghuo added.

  • Ex-deputy speaker rallies stakehokders’ support for Tinubu, Wike

    Ex-deputy speaker rallies stakehokders’ support for Tinubu, Wike

    Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Prince Chibudom Nwuche, has brought together stakeholders from Ahoada East and Ahoada West local government areas of Rivers State to declare support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.

    Nwuche, who convened members of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the Team Rivers for Tinubu (TRT) platform, also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Wike for his appointment as Chairman of the Southsouth Development Commission (SSDC).

    Addressing elders, women, youths, and party leaders, Nwuche said President Tinubu had shown genuine love to Wike, the people of Rivers, and the Niger Delta, noting that all stakeholders should rally behind his administration.

    He commended Tinubu for standing firmly with Wike and providing him with the resources and encouragement needed to deliver his vision for the FCT.

    Describing Wike as “an excellent performer,” Nwuche said the former Rivers governor had transformed Abuja just as he revitalised Rivers State during his tenure.

    He said, “The FCT is now wearing a new look with many projects completed and ongoing. Even those, who do not like the government can’t deny the fact that the government of President Tinubu with Chief Nyesom Wike is delivering the dividends of democracy and is performing spectacularly well”.

    Nwuche urged all stakeholders to support Tinubu for a second term in 2027 saying no coalition would stop the President’s reelection.

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    He told the people not to be cajoled by the coalition leaders, whom he described as people united by their hunger for power without any genuine intentions for development.

    He said, “President Tinubu came and in his first tenure removed subsidy, which they could not do when they were in power. With the bold reforms and economic transformation of President Tinubu, the states are awashed with money and the governors have a lot of money at their disposal to pay salaries and execute projects. The President inherited tough economic challenges, but he is tackling them”.

    Nwuche wondered why the coalition leaders were showing desperate hunger for power, a few years after leaving their various political positions and asked them to try again after Tinubu’s eight years in office.

    He said, “These people just left power, but they are already hungry for it again. Some of us left our positions about 20 years ago, but are still supporting genuine courses. We are not doing any coalition of power grabbing with them. We are going to support Tinubu’s second term. It is the turn of the South to do eight years and President Tinubu is doing a wonderful job of it.”

  • Wike, others give condition for peaceful PDP national convention

    Wike, others give condition for peaceful PDP national convention

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, some eminent leaders and concerned stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have said for the party to hold a peaceful national convention in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, leadership positions must remain open, inclusive and competitive.

    The party, they said, should also ensure regional equity in accordance with the PDP’s long-standing traditions.

    The conditions were given after a closed-door meeting in Abuja on Monday night. 

    They presented the conditions in a communique at the end of the meeting which started by 8:45pm and ended Tuesday morning.

    The communique read by the former Benue Governor Samuel Ortom gave conditions that must be met to prevent the upcoming national convention from being invalidated because; “legitimate members of the party would be disenfranchised.”

    Ortom said: “We, the Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), having met to review the state of our great party and assessed the critical issues leading to the forthcoming National Convention, do hereby express our collective commitment to the principles of equity, justice, inclusivity, and the rule of law – values upon which the PDP was founded and upon which its survival depends.

    “In the spirit of unity and progress, and mindful of the party’s historical role as a custodian of Nigeria’s democratic aspirations, we considered it imperative and expedient to make the following observations and convey our demands to the party leadership and the National Working Committee (NWC) as we prepare for the National Convention.”

    According to the communique, the group observed “PDP stands at a defining crossroads where its ability to reconcile internal disputes, uphold fairness, and respect constitutional processes will determine its future relevance.

    “That unity cannot be built on disenfranchisement, exclusion, or the neglect of valid judicial pronouncements.

    “That a credible National Convention must be anchored on transparency, fairness, and respect for the rule of law as well as inclusivity.”

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    The PDP group called on the National Working Committee (NWC) to urgently conduct fresh, transparent and inclusive congresses in Ebonyi and Anambra States in line with the judgments of the courts.

    “That a fresh and legitimate South-East Zonal Congress should be conducted.

    “That the outcome of the valid and legitimate South-South Congress held in Calabar, Cross River State and recognized by the court be respected.

    “That the Ekiti State Local Government Areas Congress should be conducted immediately, in obedience to the subsisting court judgement.

    “That on zoning of party offices, whereas; we agree with the zoning committee’s recommendations, which was adopted by NEC that status quo remains, we further, and very strongly hold that there should be no form of micro-zoning for peace and stability within the party.

    “Consequently, the National Chairman of the party should remain in the North-Central in line with the zoning formula of the 2021 convention,” it said.

    The group warned that failure to “comply with the above resolutions and demands shall render any purported national convention invalid, as legitimate members of the party would be disenfranchised.

    “The PDP was built on the foundation of inclusivity, fairness, and justice. Therefore, to reclaim its pride of place as the leading opposition and the true alternative for Nigerians, the party must now rise above narrow interests and embrace collective responsibility.

    “We, the Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders, remain steadfast in our loyalty to the party and resolute in our determination to work with all organs and leaders of the PDP to ensure that the forthcoming National Convention becomes a watershed moment — a moment where unity triumphs over division, and justice prevails over impunity.

    “Only then can the PDP speak with one voice, act with one heart, and march with renewed strength toward victory,” they demanded.

    In attendance were senior PDP figures, including the National Secretary, Sam Anyanwu; National Vice Chairman (South-South), Dan Orbih.

    Others present include former Abia Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu; former Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose; former Senator representing Rivers East, George Sekibo; Rivers Speaker; Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda, Hon Micah Jiba, some BoT members of the PDP, as well as other zonal and state party chairmen.

  • ‘No vacancies in Aso Villa, Delta Govt House’

    ‘No vacancies in Aso Villa, Delta Govt House’

    Former member of the House of Representatives from Ethiope Constituency, John Agoda, spoke with ELO EDREMODA on the Delta State All Progressives  Congress (APC)’s preparations for 2027 polls.

    Senator Ovie Omo-Agege is rumoured to be interested in contesting the 2027 governorship election. How do you react?

    My reaction is simple and blunt: Omo-Agege is living in self denial. His time has passed. Delta APC has moved on, but he is stuck in yesterday’s shadows clutching at an ambition that Deltans already rejected in 2023. His fresh push to contest the 2027 governorship election is not the rebirth of a political vision. It is the recycling of a failed project that is dead on arrival. Instead of rallying behind our sitting governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, who is now the leader of APC, he wants to contest against him. That’s like setting fire to your own house because you don’t like the curtains. It is a voyage to nowhere.

    In the past, you praised Omo-Agege’s brilliance in the Senate.Does that endorsement still stand

    That endorsement has since expired in the light of recent political events. Yes, Omo-Agege had his moment in the Senate. But he already had his shot at the governorship in 2023. Politics is not about recycling ambition like a broken record. If you are rejected once, you don’t force yourself down people’s throats. Delta is not anybody’s inheritance and he should not see the office of the governor as his birthright.

    Does Omo-agege’s ambition not contradict the APC Delta Central’s endorsement for President Tinubu and Oborevwori for 2027, given as both of you are from that zone?

    It doesn’t just contradict it, it spits on it. That endorsement was a show of unity of the Party in Delta Central where every leader of the party-both old and new-came together in a show of unity and strength. For Omo-Agege to come out and still say he will run is regrettably unfortunate. He is telling the party that his ego matters more than our collective survival. For someone who claims to love APC, he’s doing a wonderful job of trying to tear it apart. But I am very confident that he will not succeed.

    Apart from the Delta Central unity meeting, both Delta North and South senatorial districts have also held unity meetings where they endorsed President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for 2027. What’s your take, and where does your own constituency stand?

    That’s the point. Unity is not just in Delta Central.Delta North and South have also spoken clearly: they are standing with the President and with Governor Oborevwori come 2027. In fact, in my own Ethiope Federal Constituency, our leaders and stakeholders have resolved the same way. We have endorsed Tinubu and Oborevwori because we know that there is no vacancy in Presidential Villa and Government House, Asaba.

    Omo-agege’s supporters point at his grassroots appeal as evidence that he is still the man to beat.?

    Grassroots appeal? Please, let’s call things by their proper names. If Omo-Agege truly had grassroots appeal, why did Deltans reject him so clearly in 2023, even when he was the sitting Deputy Senate President with so-called “federal might”? Why did he lose to Oborevwori despite boasting of all his so-called “structures”? You cannot fail that spectacularly and still claim to be the darling of the grassroots. That’s like a trader who goes bankrupt claiming to be the wealthiest man in the market. Very laughable. His supporters should wake up from their day dreaming. Real grassroots support is organic; it comes from trust, integrity, and sacrifice for the people. The real grassroots now belong to Oborevwori -he is the sitting governor, embraced by every senatorial district and constituency, including my own Ethiope Federal Constituency.

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    Omo-Agege is seen by his supporters as building APC to what it is today and cannot be expected to vacate the house for ‘tenants’. How do you respond to that as one of the old members of the Party?

    This is a laughable claim. What do you now say about people like Olorogun O’tega Emerhor. Political memory is very short only for those who choose to forget. Many of us were in the trenches building APC in Delta long before Omo-Agege defected from the Labour Party. Coincidentally, I contested as the party’s 2015 senatorial candidate against him at a time when APC was still struggling to find its footing in Delta State. If there are “landlords” in APC, it is those of us who were here before he even arrived-not someone who came in later, benefited from the structure and now seeks to monopolize it. APC is not Omo-Agege’s private estate and he should not see it as such. It belongs to all of us and to the people of Delta State.

    Shettima declared Oborevwori as leader of APC in Delta during the formal defection ceremony in Asaba. Is that the situation in Delta?

    The matter of leadership is already settled. The Vice President of Nigeria, standing before the entire country, declared Oborevwori is the leader of APC in Delta. That is the voice of the Presidency and the national party. Leadership is not grabbed; it is bestowed. And it has been bestowed on  Oborevwori.

    Recently, Sen. Peter Nwaoboshi said he and Chief James Ibori advised Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege, not to run against Oborevwori.

    Well, Nwaoboshi has spoken publicly, and he is not a man to fabricate such a serious matter. If he said he advised Omo-Agege, in the presence of former governor James Ibori, not to run against Sheriff Oborevwori, then we must take it seriously.This is typical of Omo-Agege’s camp—always quick to shout “fake” when reality does not suit them. If tomorrow the sun rises from the East, they will say it is fake news because it did not rise from their bedroom window. The truth is bitter, but it is still the truth. Omo-Agege was advised, and he ignored wise counsel. If your own friends are telling you to quit and you still refuse, then what you are carrying is not ambition, that is pride that blinds you to reality. But then again, maybe Omo-Agege believes he knows better than everyone else, even his allies. He wants to run a one-man show. That is not leadership, that is recklessness.

    Earlier this year, APC leaders petitioned Omo-Agege over mismanaging campaign funds running into billions and even working against you in the 2023 elections. How do you respond?

    That petition alleges that billions of campaign funds were mismanaged and the party suffered for it in the 2023 governorship elections. Instead of strengthening the party, those resources, in my view, were used in ways that undermined fellow candidates and I was a victim. As APC’s candidate in Ethiope Federal Constituency, rather than support me, he worked against me. The video of how he worked against me is still trending out there. Tell me, what kind of leader sabotages his own party’s candidates?

    That aside, whatever little credibility he had left was struck a major blow following allegations of mismanagement of the Tantita surveillance jobs meant for the people of Delta central by Pararan mock news online. Those who squander yesterday, sabotage today and betray their own cannot demand tomorrow’s crown.

    And up till today, Omo-Agege has not publicly responded to those weighty allegations.Silence, in matters this serious, is not golden.

    Recently,Oborevwori, awarded many contracts, including the construction of flyovers at Otovwodo Junction, Ughelli, Agbor and the rehabilitation of the failed portion of the Warri/Sapele Road. Do you think that so far, his performance is enough to guarantee him a second term?

    Without a doubt, yes. In fact, Sheriff Oborevwori’s performance so far has been nothing short of commendable. He came into office and hit the ground running, addressing critical infrastructure that had been neglected for years. The flyovers at Ughelli and Agbor are not just cosmetic projects; they are strategic investments that will ease traffic, boost commerce, and open up those areas to greater economic opportunities. The rehabilitation of Warri/Sapele Road is another bold step that touches the lives of ordinary Deltans every single day.What people want from a governor is not empty rhetoric but tangible results-roads they can drive on without breaking their vehicles, infrastructure that makes life easier, and policies that bring development closer to their doorsteps. Gov. Sheriff is delivering all these, and in record time. In fact, his developmental projects are unprecedented.

    So, to your question: is his performance enough to guarantee him a second term? My answer is a resounding yes. Given his present trajectory, 2027 will not even be a contest-it will be an endorsement by the people. How do you challenge a performing governor who has the backing of the people, the presidency, and the party? It is political suicide. Sheriff Oborevwori deserves a second term, and Deltans will give it to him gladly.

    Moreover, Sen. Peter Nwaoboshi said as much in his interview that you don’t run against a sitting governor in your party who wants a second term and even mentioned ex-Govs Ibori, Okowa and Uduaghan who were not challenged in their second term bids. In circumstances like this, the governor has the right of first refusal if he so chooses.

    What’s your message to APC members and Deltans ahead of 2027?

    My message is very clear: APC now controls Delta through Gov. Oborevwori. We must consolidate, not tear ourselves apart. Omo-Agege should have the decency to realize by now that his 2027 ambition is dead and buried. He can shout, he can posture and his supporters can spin, but Delta APC has moved on with Gov Sheriff Oborevwori as our sole candidate for 2027 and he should do the same.

  • Senator Marafa: The leprous finger that withered away

    Senator Marafa: The leprous finger that withered away

    On August 29, 2025, news broke that former Senator Kabiru Marafa, who represented Zamfara Central Senatorial District from 2011 to 2019, and his loyalists have dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC), with claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a “use and dump” politician, rising insecurity in Zamfara State, and the neglect of Zamfara in political appointments under this administration.

    While some might view this as a disturbing development, any keen and objective observer of Zamfara State politics will celebrate his exit, as the most disruptive and self-serving politician in the party has finally left.

    In a contest driven by ego and selfish interests, Kabiru Marafa ensured that his party, the APC, lost the governorship and other elective offices in the state.

    His stance was clear: “If I can’t have it, no one will.” He brought down the roof on everyone, disregarding the monumental damage and cost to his party’s political fortunes.

    It is well-known that in 2018, Senator Marafa ran for the governorship nomination of the APC in Zamfara State, but his bid was marred by internal conflicts within the party. The APC in Zamfara was divided into two factions: one led by Marafa and the other by then Governor Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari. Each faction organized its own primary elections, leading to a dispute over the legitimacy of the process.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognized the candidates chosen by Yari’s faction, but Marafa argued that no valid primaries had taken place.

    He insisted that the party’s internal process was flawed and that the primaries organized by Yari’s faction were illegal.

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    This disagreement prompted Marafa to challenge the primaries, ultimately taking the case to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

    On May 24, 2019, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Marafa’s position, declaring that the primaries conducted by Yari’s faction were indeed illegal.

    Consequently, the court’s decision invalidated the election of all APC candidates in Zamfara for the 2019 general elections.

    As a result, the APC’s votes in Zamfara were rendered void because the party failed to present valid candidates due to the lack of properly conducted primaries.

    In the lead-up to the 2023 general elections, Marafa quickly allied with his former political rival from the 2019 election cycle in a bid to realize his ambition of becoming governor.

    This resulted in a crisis between two factions: one led by Governor Bello Matawalle, who had defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC a few months before the start of post-election activities, and another led by former Governor Abdul’aziz Yari and Senator Kabiru Marafa.

    The crisis within the APC deepened when the then-National Caretaker Committee Chairman, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni, visited the state to welcome Matawalle to the party and announced that Matawalle was automatically the leader of the party in the state.

    Thanks to effective leadership and political maturity displayed by Matawalle, the implosion of the state chapter of the party and a repeat of the 2019 fate were averted, albeit at a cost. Matawalle lost his re-election bid, but the APC remained a united front in Zamfara.

    Marafa’s brief association with the Northern Elders Forum and his harsh criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are not rooted in northern nationalism but rather in a desperate attempt to maintain political relevance.

    It is reasonable to speculate that Marafa believed he was a frontrunner for a ministerial slot from Zamfara State, but his hopes were dashed when President Tinubu nominated H.E. Bello Matawalle, and appointed him as Minister of State for Defence.

    This appointment clearly undermines Marafa’s and his allies’ claims of neglect of Zamfara in political appointments.

    It is also noteworthy that Mr. Yazeed Shehu Danfulani was appointed as the Chairman of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation.

    This appointment is not only political but also strategic, as Zamfara prides itself on farming, with the state slogan, “Farming is our pride.”

    Addressing the allegations of militarization during the recent by-elections, it should be noted that Zamfara, given its security challenges, could justifiably be considered a militarized zone.

    To any objective Nigerian, the increased deployment of military personnel was intended to ensure the safety and well-being of the electorate, as these areas are within a hotbed of banditry and terrorism.

    While Zamfara remains in the news for security-related matters, it is on record that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration has neutralized over 20 bandit leaders declared wanted in the last two years.

    This marks a clear departure from the situation in 2023, when the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration made insufficient efforts to secure the state, heavily militarized the 2023 governorship election, and failed to capture, try, or neutralize a single bandit leader.

    In my opinion, Marafa’s exit from the APC represents the self-elimination of a disruptive element from its ranks.

    • Abdulrahman Alkali a social commentator, writes from Gusua.

  • You goofed again, our victory in Rivers council poll well deserved, APC fires Atiku

    You goofed again, our victory in Rivers council poll well deserved, APC fires Atiku

    The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has told the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that he has goofed again over his incendiary allegations of foul play in the just concluded Rivers State local government elections.

    The party, while appreciating the people of Rivers State for its overwhelming victory at the grassroots election, rejected Atiku’s comment, describing his baseless allegations as highly irresponsible.

    The APC won 20 out the 23 local government areas in the weekend local government elections that saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) struggling to win in three councils while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) lost out.

    APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka in a statement in Abuja on Monday expressed the party’s profound appreciation to the people of the state for their overwhelming support in Saturday’s Local Government Elections.

    According to Morka, the victory was “another unmistakable indication of strong confidence of the people in the APC-led President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and its flagship Renewed Hope Agenda to continue to deliver transformative and people-oriented governance at all levels in our country.

    Read Also: Adedeji calls for global action against cross-border tax crimes

    “We commend our party leaders, members and supporters for working assiduously for this important victory.

    “Our appreciation also goes to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful, transparent and hitch-free election.”

    The party urged the newly elected local government officials to work even harder to deliver meaningful governance outcomes for the common good of all.

    Taking a swipe on Atiku, the governing party said it “categorically rejects the incendiary and highly irresponsible allegations of foul play hurled by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over the Rivers State local government elections.

    “Atiku’s tirade is no more than a smokescreen meant to distract the public from another miserable no-show record of his African Democratic Congress (ADC), and an attempt to stoke tension and strife over the Rivers local government election.

    “We trust Rivers people to reject Atiku’s incitement to strife and instability as an unwise counsel of a forlorn serial presidential contender.

    “Again, our profuse gratitude remains with the Rivers state electorate for their highly valued support. Together, we will build a stronger, more united Rivers state that works for the good of all.”

  • 2027 presidency: Jonathan constitutionally qualified to contest elections – Azibaola Robert

    2027 presidency: Jonathan constitutionally qualified to contest elections – Azibaola Robert

    Azibaola Robert, a cousin of former President Goodluck Jonathan, has declared that Jonathan is constitutionally and legally qualified to contest the 2027 general elections.

    His statement came amid rising calls from stakeholders who believe Jonathan remains the only opposition figure capable of mounting a strong challenge against President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from May 2010 to May 2015, first assumed office in an acting capacity following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

    He later won the 2011 presidential election under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) before conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.

    With the opposition split between the PDP and the Labour Party, and uncertainty surrounding the political ambitions of Peter Obi and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stakeholders argue that Jonathan’s experience and national appeal position him as the strongest unifying candidate.

    Read Also: 2027: Why Jonathan shouldn’t risk contesting against Tinubu, by APC group 

    However, his potential return has sparked debate. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, SAN, has urged the PDP not to field Jonathan, while human rights lawyer Professor Chidi Anselm Odinkalu insists he is constitutionally barred from running again.

    Reacting, Robert stressed that Jonathan retains the constitutional right to contest in 2027 if he chooses. He added that if the former president decides not to heed the growing calls, it would not be for lack of qualification.

    He reminded both Keyamo and Odinkalu that he is also a lawyer who was also a prodemocracy activist in the 1990s, adding that, although his comment does not confirm Jonathan’s candidacy.*

    Azibaola wrote on his Facebook page:

    “Dear Festus Keyamo, SAN, Chidi Odinkalu (Prof.), I greet both of you. For the record, we are three lawyers.

    “We all were pro-democracy activists in the 90s, and I was a better activist than both of you combined.

    “RULE NO. 1: Do not offer legal advice where none is solicited. Goodluck Jonathan has numerous, more celebrated, more experienced SANs at his disposal who give him sound, unblemished, professional legal advice only.

    “GEJ is 100% constitutionally and legally qualified to contest if he chooses to. If he chooses not to yield to his overwhelming calls to contest, it would not be because he is not qualified.

    “Your screwed, unsolicited legal view is not of any concern in his bucket list, and it will never be. Don’t waste your precious time further dwelling on this.

    “Or should you schedule a meeting with me so you can get properly educated on the subsisting court judgements on this, one of which your party, APC, was a party?

    “I beg una, make we no dey put too much water inside belle for another person disco dance, make long line no form for latrine door. This is not a confirmation that GEJ is running, though.”

  • Political motive behind attacks on NAHCON chairman, says group

    Political motive behind attacks on NAHCON chairman, says group

    A political support group, Tinubu Vanguard for 2027, has condemned what it described as an orchestrated campaign to tarnish the image of the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman.

    In a statement on Monday, the group alleged that certain individuals and interest group blocks were targeting Usman as part of a broader plot to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The group added that part of the plan is to discredit trusted northern technocrats within the Tinubu administration.

    The chairman of Tinubu Vanguard for 2027, Bisola Abdulkadir, said that the recent attack on the professor have nothing to do with transparency and accountability.

    He described the NAHCON chairman as a man of integrity and experience, commending his efforts during the 2024 hajj.

    Read Also: No extension of deadlines for 2026 Hajj, NAHCON tells stakeholders

    He added that his ongoing reforms have improved pilgrims’ welfare and institutional transparency.

    It stressed: “The recent attacks on Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman are not about transparency or accountability. They are simply attacks against the Tinubu administration orchestrated by individuals and interest blocks. They are targeting trusted technocrats of northern extraction within the administration.

    “Intelligence reports made available to us have indicated that several political office holders of northern extraction have been marked for character assassination ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The plans are meant to de-market President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027.”

    The group called on Nigerians especially northern stakeholders to reject the malicious propaganda masquerading as activism and support leaders like Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman who are committed to national unity and effective service delivery.