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Tag: APC

  • APC aspirant gets support for Reps’ seat

    APC aspirant gets support for Reps’ seat

    A political group, under auspices of ‘The Observers’, has endorsed  Mrs. Tomisin Edu-Falade as candidate for House of Representatives for Akure North/South Federal Constituency in 2027.

    In a statement by Spokesperson, Olusegun Adesope, in Akure, the group urged leadership of All Progressives Congress (APC) to back a candidate, who embodies vibrancy, competence, and an understanding of effective representation.

    According to them, Mrs. Edu-Falade stands out as the only aspirant who truly fits this description.

    The group noted that Mrs. Edu-Falade hails from Akure North, a region that has been marginalised in the constituency’s political representation since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.

    “No individual from Akure North has represented Akure North/South Federal Constituency in the House,” Adesope said.

    “This imbalance must be corrected, and Edu-Falade’s candidacy offers a historic chance to ensure equitable representation for all parts of the constituency.”

    “We love her dynamism, vision, and commitment to delivering  dividends of democracy to the people of Akure North/South.

    “She is not just an aspirant; she is a beacon of hope for a constituency that has yearned for good representation,” it reads.

    The group pointed out the constituency has faced challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited access to quality education, and insufficient economic opportunities.

    “Her connection to the grassroots, combined with her strategic vision, positions her to attract federal resources and implement policies that will uplift living for constituents,” Adesope added.

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    The Observers also praised Mrs. Edu-Falade’s inclusive approach, noting her ability to unite diverse groups within the constituency.

    “She is a bridge-builder who understands the importance of carrying everyone along, regardless of their background,” the statement continued.

    “Her candidacy represents a fresh start for Akure North/South, one that prioritizes progress, equity, and accountability.”

    The group called on the APC leadership to prioritize competence and fairness in the selection process for the 2027 elections, emphasizing that Mrs. Edu-Falade’s nomination would not only address the historical marginalization of Akure North but also strengthen the party’s position in the constituency.

    “The people are watching, and they are ready for a leader who will deliver. Mrs. Tomisin Edu-Falade is that leader,” Adesope concluded.

    The group also encouraged other aspirants to rally behind her candidacy for the sake of unity and progress in the constituency.

  • APC will tower above PDP in achievements if Tinubu rules for eight years

    APC will tower above PDP in achievements if Tinubu rules for eight years

    Abuja-based legal practitioner, writer and political enthusiast, Muhammed Mustapha Belgore, is probably the hope of tomorrow’s youth. Blunt, upright and focused, Muhammed is well grounded in political analysis. In this interview with Gboyega Alaka, Mohammed opens up on current party politicking in Nigeria and how it affects the youths and the North’s position.

    You are no doubt a politically conscious youth. But do you think today’s youth are generally mindful of politics?

    Yes, I believe today’s youth are generally mindful of politics. As I stated before this interview, my generation is the golden generation that will save this country. While it may seem that not all youths may be fully participating, everyone is watching with keen interest, especially as policies directly affect their survival in the harsh situations we find ourselves in. They have no choice, Nigeria is home, and politics touches every aspect of life here.

    We have to tighten our belts. Our forebears have disappointed us. They preferred to teach us to kneel down to greet our elders rather than secure the institutions that would make our lives easier. Healthcare, electricity, pipe borne water, education, what have you, nothing. they just pocketed the billions. We can’t let our own children look at us in that manner. No.

    Do Nigerian youths care about who their political leader is, and should they really care, after being disappointed for so long?

    Absolutely, Nigerian youths care about who their political leader is, and they should care deeply. After years of disappointment, it’s understandable to feel disillusioned. But disengagement is not the answer. Policies shape our survival, and as I’ve said, we’re all watching keenly because there’s no escaping the impact. Nigeria is home, we must care to change it for the better.

    What is your impression of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the man you commonly refer to as a political phenomenon?

    Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a political phenomenon who I adore. His track record is one of triumph, from building Lagos into an economic powerhouse to navigating national politics with strategic brilliance. He is a leader who understands the ubiquity of politics in Nigeria where everything is politics, and he has mastered it.

    We had the PDP in the political saddle for so long, and we have also had the APC in the saddle for quite a while now. Which can you say has done well or better?

    Between PDP and APC, I’d say APC has done better, especially under leaders like Tinubu. PDP held power for 16 years from 1999 to 2015, but corruption and inefficiency plagued their tenure. APC, since 2015, has focused on reforms, anti-corruption drives, and infrastructure, though challenges remain. But if Tinubu is the leg that APC stands on, at the end of his eight years tenure, I expect that APC will stand tall when compared with PDP.

    Is the formation of ADC really necessary, considering the fact that the political figures remain the same?

    The creation or rather the recent revival of ADC as a coalition is not necessary, given that the same political figures are involved. ADC was founded in 2005, but now in 2025, it has become a platform for opposition leaders like Atiku, Obi, El-Rufai, Amaechi, and others to unite against APC. It’s the same recycled politicians shifting for power, not ideology. It won’t bring fresh change.

     In time past, when Nigerian politics seemed to have been about serving the masses, politicians defected from parties based on ideologies and desire to better the lot of the electorate. But today’s defections seem to be pocket-motivated. What do you think?

    Maybe I’m too young to know, but I can’t remember when it was ever based on ideologies and a desire to serve the masses. I think the egregiousness of the greed woven into the fabric of their sinister intentions is only more pronounced now. It’s always been about personal gain. Politics is ubiquitous in Nigeria. Everything is politics here, and that ubiquity often leads to self-interest over public good.

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    Let’s be factual here, can ADC really take power from APC?

    Factually, no. ADC cannot take power from APC. Maybe  2031. But 2027? There’s no magic they want to perform. Let’s be practical, even with the coalition of big names, the opposition is fragmented, and the APC’s hold, especially under Tinubu, is strong. The recent defections to the APC weakened the opposition further.

    Who would you say is the face of the ADC?

    ADC doesn’t have a single “face” right now. It’s a coalition. David Mark has been named interim national chairman, but key figures include Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, and others who joined in 2025 to challenge Tinubu.

    Tinubu’s past, according to you, is a tale of triumph, but every man has a losing point! Do you think that applies to Tinubu whose track record you already know?

    Every man has a losing point. But for Tinubu, whose past is a tale of triumph that I know well, I don’t see it applying anytime soon. He’s not God; he’s failed in certain respects as well in the past, but he is resilient, strategic, and adored for good reasons. His track record in Lagos and nationally shows he’s built to win, even against all odds.

    Months before the 2015 general elections in which General Buhari locked horns with former president Jonathan, one already knew the position of the North. From your perception, what is the permutation of the North about 2027?

    From my perception as a youth, the North’s permutation for 2027 is not mainly about reclaiming power in 2027. Yes, there’s growing unity in the North against Tinubu’s administration, feeling marginalised and all that. But Tinubu will fix this grievance before 2027. The North will not be cheated, this is biblical. No, the North will not be cheated. As Brazil is to football, that is how the North is to politics, and Tinubu knows this. He will dot the Is and cross the Ts where necessary.

    There have been underground moves to recall a reluctant Jonathan into the 2027 presidential race. Do you see him jumping into the ring?

    I don’t see Jonathan jumping into the ring for 2027. If he wants to erase that fragile legacy he has as Nigeria’s democratic hero, then he can jump in. But he will drown; because the category of politicians we have now, he’s not their caliber. He should just sit down and enjoy his hero status. Unless he wants them to use him for their own selfish reasons. The truth is he will only be an expendable tool to them.

    If you were to advise ADC, who would you suggest they give the baton to; Atiku, Obi or El-Rufai?

    What I will advise ADC to do will sound very absurd, but I’m telling you that it is how they will win. When I saw that they made Bolaji Abdullah their interim spokesperson, I felt okay, perhaps these guys may get it right. But I don’t know, I guess we’ll see. None of those bigwigs can win. But if they support a technocrat like Bolaji Abdullahi; Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, El-Rufai, David Mark, let them just decide that the goal is to win and sacrifice their own ambitions, and then support a candidate. That gives Nigerians the impression of a fresh start, then they will have a chance. Let them just unite behind a candidate Nigerians are not expecting, and then give it everything. But I know they won’t do that. Atiku will contest till thy kingdom comes.

    With a weakened G5 which APC had in 2015, don’t you think that APC has lost its legs?

    Yes, with a weakened G5, APC has lost some legs. The G5—Wike, Makinde, Ortom, Ugwuanyi, and Ikpeazu, supported Tinubu in 2023, but now the group is fractured. Some like Wike are in Tinubu’s government; others have lost influence post-2023. APC relied on them for southern support, but their weakness exposes vulnerabilities.

    Can one party system work in Nigeria?

    A one-party state is where only one political party is legally allowed to govern, controlling all aspects of power without opposition. It can work in stable, ideologically unified nations like China. But in diverse Nigeria, it would stifle democracy, breed corruption, and lead to authoritarianism. We need multi-party competition for accountability.

    Looking at it critically, Tinubu has 2027 in his pocket. But what does that say about the economy, and the future of the youths of Nigeria?

    If Tinubu has 2027 in his pocket, I even prefer it like that. See, democracy has a lot of challenges. Continuity is a problem. There are policies that take time to bear fruit. If someone else comes in and starts running the country de novo, we will go back to square one. Let him finish his eight (8) years. Let’s see the result of another uninterrupted eight (8) years of democratic rule. As for the future of Nigerian youths, is he not the first to initiate the student loan policy? Was their future looking better under his predecessors? Come on… let him put 2027 in his pocket and zip it up.

     You write and speak politics. When are you going into politics proper? Or are you already one of them?

     I write and speak about politics, and I feel like a politician already, even though I’m not particularly active with any party at the moment. Politics is ubiquitous, especially in Nigeria where everything is politics. I’ll step in when the time feels right to contribute more actively.

  • 2027: Governors in power game to pick successors

    2027: Governors in power game to pick successors

    • Abiodun, Makinde, AbdulRazak keep cards close to chest
    • Anxiety in states as aspirants intensify consultations

    All appears not to be well between many second term governors and party stakeholders over succession to government houses in 2027, an investigation by The Nation  has shown.

    The rank and file of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, Ogun, Kwara, and Nasarawa as well as those of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo and Adamawa are worried that the governors are keeping them in the dark over their possible replacements.

    Alleged governorship aspiration of the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo on the platform of APC in Akwa Ibom State is generating tension of its own.

    Sources said Governor Umo Eno had been assured by the APC hierarchy of a second term ticket as a condition for his defection from PDP in June.

    Party members in the state are upset that the minister’s aspiration could threaten internal cohesion.

    Members of the APC in Lagos State are eager to know the party’s stand on its possible flag bearer in 2027 and the senatorial district he might come from.

    Since 1999, it could be said that only one party has maintained dominance in Lagos State.

    Eyes are on the Centre of Excellence for three reasons. The first is that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will be completing his second term in 2027. Succession politics fills the air. Across the political parties, the nomination of candidates will follow the usual complex and challenging processes.

    The second is that Lagos is the base of the President, and at least, in the ruling party, the buck may stop at his table.

    The third is that the ruling party can hardly drop its guard, given its 2023 experience when the incumbency power and influence collapsed during the presidential poll with the Labour Party (LP) triumphing over the supposedly poll-confident APC.

    But the contemporary history of Lagos also attests to the mystery of its succession politics whereby since 2007, there is no member of ruling parties – AD, AC, ACN and APC – who vied for the ticket and got it without President Bola Tinubu’s backing.

    The governors who are Tinubu’s successors – Babatunde Fasola, Akinwunmi Ambode and Sanwo-Olu – have one thing in common. In the real sense of the word, they are not politicians with solid personal structures, but technocrats – lawyer, chartered accountant and banker – who became outstanding in public service as Chief of Staff, Accountant-General and Commissioner.

    Whether that pattern of nomination of a competent and suitable candidate for the ruling party will be sustained or changed will depend on certain dynamics in the nearest future.

    Factors usually considered, apart from competence and acceptability to the electorate, are zoning,  which is not sacrosanct; religious balancing, which also may not be a strong issue in the Southwest; and gender parity, depending on the pre-determined outcome of the nominations, either through direct primary, indirect option or consensus which is now remote.

    The only sub-zone rooting for zoning or rotation in 2027 is Badagry Division in the Lagos West Senatorial District. The activities of some politicians from the area in this regard are visible in the media.

    Once the candidate receives the majority endorsement in the ruling party, post-primary crisis is nipped in the bud and party faces the election squarely.

    There will be no shortage of aspirants on the platform of APC, with the majority of them from Lagos East.

    Unlike in other states, however, the potential contenders are careful not to divert the attention of the governor and heat up the state. They are only intensifying consultations and underground mobilisation within the party structures.

     A source said four are in the race as a strategy to draw attention so that they can be considered for other positions if the governorship ticket predictably slips away.

    The potential Lagos APC aspirants are in four categories. The first category comprises former aspirants who are likely to throw their hats in the ring again.

    The first is Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who competed with Ambode at the 2015 primary, and was offered the running mate in 2019 before stepping down for Sanwo-Olu.

    Since he joined the Tinubu administration as a commissioner in 2002/3, he has always been in government. He served in the eight years of Fashola as commissioner before becoming Special Adviser to him while he was works minister.

    The second in the category is Tokunbo Wahab, Environment Commissioner. He is a lawyer. Before his current assignment, he had served as Special Adviser on Education.

    The third is the Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde, who was preferred as successor to Ambode by some influential associates of Tinubu in 2015. A security expert, he was the campaign manager for Sanwo-Olu in the Independent Campaign Group in 2019 and 2023.

    The second category is made up of experienced politicians who are coveting the seat and putting up personal structures to actualise their dream. These include Presidential Chief of Staff and former House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, who has sponsored empowerment programmes in Surulere Constituency and beyond; House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was reinstated after his impeachment as head of the legislative arm; and former Governor Ambode, whose second term bid hit the rocks. They are all in positions to fund state-wide governorship campaigns.

    The third category is made up of young men and women of note and distinction who have excelled and earned good reputation in politics, public service and personal endeavours. One of them is Hakeem Muri-Okunola, a lawyer who had served as Head of Service in Lagos State before becoming Principal Private Secretary to the President.

    Also, mention has been made of the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who is up and doing in his current assignment. A distinguished medical doctor, he is a former Minister of State for Health.

    Others include House of Representatives member from Ikorodu, Jimi Benson, and his predecessor, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who is the chairman of the Diaspora Commission.

    The last category is made up of technocrats in APC; patriotic, experienced in public administration, competent and loyal party stalwarts who mean well for the party, its leadership and the state, but who may not personally seek the governorship ticket unless they are called upon to take up the role in furtherance of their dedicated service to the state, the nation and humanity.

    In this mould, according to party sources, is Tokunbo Abiru, chartered accountant, banker and senator representing Lagos East District.

    He had resigned as Finance Commissioner in the Fashola government to take up the job of Executive Director at Syke Bank. He later became Managing Director of Polaris Bank. He succeeded Senator Osinnowo Pepper after his demise. Abiru was re-elected in 2023.

    More aspirants are expected when the whistle is blown by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    PDP

    The Lagos PDP chapter is not currently in a good shape. It is weakened by protracted crisis, more than its 2023 condition. The chapter is polarised.

    But the state executive committee is made up of officers loyal to the BoT member, Chief Olabode George, who is recognised as the leader by the national leadership.

    A source said the 2023 LP candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, is being wooed by the chapter ahead of 2027. Currently, LP is enveloped in crisis and there is no end in sight to the logjam.

    Rhodes-Vivour was the anointed aspirant until Jide Adediran defected from the APC to PDP, shortly before the last general election.

    LP

     The mass appeal of LP in the state seems to have evaporated after Rhodes-Vivour lost in the 2023 election. He now courts the ADC. The party is not attractive to politicians who may wish to borrow the platform because of its protracted crisis.

    ADC

    Lagos ADC is woven around anti-Bode George members of the PDP, including Alhaji Rahman Owokoniran and Funmi Onita-Coker. No aspirant is associated with the platform for now.

    But Onita-Coker said: “ADC will definitely field a governorship candidate.”

    Nassarawa

    The state is currently administered by APC Governor Abdullahi Sule who is over two years into his second term. The APC is the party to beat in the state and is not likely to be short of governorship aspirants.

    For now, the two most visible aspirants in the party are Senator Aliyu Wadada and retired Police Inspector General Mohammed Abubakar Adamu.

    Wadada, an immensely popular politician, currently represents Nasarawa West in the Red Chamber.

    He recently returned to the APC following his resignation from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on whose platform he got elected in 2023.

    He broke ranks with the APC in the run up to the 2023 elections when he was denied the senatorial ticket by the powers that be.

    He moved to the SDP and won.

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    Adamu served as the 20th Inspector General of Police. He was appointed on January 15, 2029 and retired on April 6, 2021.

    Governor Sule is mute on his choice.

    Ogun

    Like Sule, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State is giving nothing out yet on his preferred candidate for the office that he will be relinquishing in less than two years from now.

    But that has not stopped several aspirants from his party-APC- from going about their consultations with the people.

    But the greater challenge lies in the reluctance of Ogun East (Ijebu and Remo areas) and Ogun Central (Egba area) to cede the ticket to Ogun West, which has not had its own occupy the office since the creation of the state in 1976.

    While Ogun East has produced the late Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and the incumbent Abiodun, from Ogun Central came Chief Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun.

    Different interest groups are assembling teams, building relationships and scanning the political climate across the three senatorial districts ahead of the party primaries.

    The governor, who is interested in going to the Senate after his tenure, is currently locked in a battle with the incumbent Senator for Ogun East, Otunba Daniel, after the former governor accused Abiodun of planning to demolish his (Daniel’s) Asoludero Court private residence in Sagamu, and a hotel over alleged building regulation infractions.

    Their face turned ugly on Tuesday with the suspension of Daniel by the APC for alleged anti-party activities.

    Observers say having used pliant party structure to suspend the ex-governor, Abiodun may have set off a political storm that would keep him too preoccupied and distracted ahead of 2027 that his political goodwill could be adversely affected to make a strong representation on who should be his successor.

     So, governorship aspirants in the state seem to be looking beyond Abiodun for backers. They are taking cues from the fate of those who relied on his predecessors but failed in the end. The argument is that if more popular governors like Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun could not produce successors, what chances does Abiodun have to break the jinx?

    Governorship aspirants in APC include Ambassador Sarafa Isola, the immediate past Nigeria’s High Commissioner in London; Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu; Kayode Amusan, a former member of the House of Representatives; Senator Solomon Adeola; Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Representative Gboyega Nasir Isiaka; and Representative Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade.

    Isola, Salisu and Amusan are Egba while Salako-Oyedele, Isiaka, Akinlade and Adeola are from Ogun West.

    The Yewa, Awori and Ogu people of Ogun West are pulling all the strings to have the governorship this time around. They say they can no longer remain spectators while the Ijebu, Remo and Egba continue to dominate the seat.

    Observers believe that should APC stakeholders decide to concede the ticket to Ogun West, it will likely go to Adeola who appears to be well connected to the grassroots across the state.

    The governorship candidate of PDP in 2023, Oladipupo Adebutu, is also believed to be working underground to have another shot in 2027.

    Adebutu though from Iperu, Remo like Abiodun, is plotting to use the platform of Ogun Central to contest.

    He recently said he has Egba connection through a village in Odeda Local Government area of the state.

    Adebutu is reputed as the sole financier of the Ogun PDP and has taken firm grip of the party structure, using it to corner the governorship ticket to only himself.

    But the outing of his party and its candidate in the last by-election in his Ikenne/Sagamu Remo North Federal Constituency does not portray him as one with the kind of influence he claims to have.

    Moreover, notable members of the PDP including former chairman of the party in the state, Dr. Sikirulahi Ogundele and Adebutu’s running mate in 2023, Abdulkabir Akinlade, have deserted him for APC.

    The ADC and LP are practically non- existent in the state.

    Akwa Ibom

    Concerned by the alleged aspiration of Mr. Ekperikpe Ekpo to contest the APC ticket with Gov. Eno, some party members petitioned President Tinubu, saying the party’s unity was at stake.

    The minister’s action, according to them, is “undermining the party’s unity and creating divisions that are detrimental to our collective success.”

    They accused him of being more focused on positioning himself for a future political contest than on delivering results for the party.

    The PDP which had ruled the state from 1999 until Eno’s recent defection is now a shadow of its former self.

    The rump of its membership are trying to find space in ADC.

    Oyo

    The result of the recent by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency which went in favour of the PDP seems to have strengthened Governor Seyi Makinde’s grip on the party and the state.

    Members of the party and the people of the state are anxiously looking forward to January 2026, five months from now, when the Governor promised to reveal his preferred candidate.

    Speaking during the 11th Omituntun Ramadan lecture in Ibadan back in March, Makinde said: “In January 2026, we know that political activities will start. I will tell you the picture of the person that will be installed there.”

    But while the waiting game continues, speculations are rife about those aspiring for the position in PDP.

    They include Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; Adebo Akande, Executive Adviser to the Governor on International Cooperation Development and Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA); Chief Adegboyega Adegoke, businessman, politician, and philanthropist; and Niyi Aborisade, human rights activist and United Kingdom-trained lawyer

    From the APC are Power Minister Bayo Adelabu , Special Adviser  to the President on Public Communications and Orientation, Mr Sunday Dare; Representative Remi Oseni;and Zacheaus Adedeji, Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

    The party’s governorship candidate in 2023, Senator Teslim Folarin, has been quiet lately.

    Members of the APC in the state say the party has immense goodwill but is in dire need of leaders in the mould of the late Abiola Ajimobi, who can seize the momentum and propel the party to the desired height.

    The ADC in the state is torn apart by internal challenges. Only recently, its leadership expelled some key members including former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, and ex-Senator Michael Koleoso, for alleged anti-party activities.

    Since the sack, not much has been heard from the party.

    Kwara

     In Kwara State, alliances are being formed and old tensions are resurfacing ahead of the governorship race.

    So far, some governorship aspirants from Kwara North have expressed their intention to seek APC’s governorship ticket for 2027.

    They are the Senator representing the zone Sodiq Umar, Hon Danladi-Salihu, Makama of Lafiagi Alhaji Tajudeen Audu and Haliru Dantosho Mahmud.

    Governor Abdulraman AbdulRazaq in his first term in office pledged power shift to the zone in 2027.

    Stakeholders from the zone are confident of getting the support of the rest of the state and recently convened a meeting to lay the ground for the emergence of the next governor from the zone.

    Speaking during the meeting, APC Deputy Chairman in the state Abdullahi Samari said it was to “put our house in order” and to enable the aspirants work together.

    He said:”Principally, APC has guidelines and that will be followed before a candidate will emerge. We want to assure Kwarans and Nigerians that those aspiring to govern the state from Kwara north are people with enough wisdom, experience, people with fear of God, love for the masses and have resolved to work together- so that whosever emerges as the candidate at the end of the day with support of our brothers and sisters from other senatorial districts- will cling the seat of power.”

    All the four aspirants took their turns to express their resolve to rally round any of them that emerges as the governorship candidate come 2027.

    Speaking, Senator Umar said the governorship seat is what the zone has been “hungry for in the interest of Kwara first and, of course, our region.

    “All we are asking is for Kwarans to trust us and give us this opportunity to also govern the state.

    “There is no division between us. We are all working together. Kwara north is united not divided. We are one people and the same family.”

      Former Senate President Bukola Saraki who is the leader of PDP in the state will be key in deciding the party’s flag bearer.

    The party is still reeling from its loss of power in the Otoogee rebellion of 2015 and the defection of some key members to ADC.

    ADC revs up in Adamawa

    The political influence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in his home state of Adamawa is still strong, hence the movement of key politicians mainly from his former party PDP to the ADC.

    These include the 2023 governorship candidate of APC, Senator Aishatu Ahmed (Binani), former Governor Jibrilla Bindow , Senator Ishaku Abbo; and ADC governorship candidate in 2019, Senator Abdulazeez Nyako, each of whom is keen on being governor.

    The ADC has promised to take no sides when the contest starts.

    Chairman of the party in Adamawa State, Shehu Yohanna, told The Nation that everyone will have adequate accommodation to thrive.

    In the PDP, the political landscape is similarly populated by four formidable contenders.

    The four include immediate past speaker of the state House of Assembly and now Senator for the Central Zone, Aminu Iya Abbas.

     Like most in the race, he has not officially declared interest, but his associates are preaching his ambition on many of his social media handles.

    Iya Abbas who got into the Adamawa House of Assembly in 2019, became Speaker upon reelection in 2023 and got into the Senate in 2023, is a fast riser who is believed to be keenly interested in seeking to move up quickly again for a higher office, the office of Governor.

    The incumbent Secretary to the Adamawa State Government (SSG), Auwal Tukur, has the political legacy in a father, Bamanga Tukur, who served as both governor of the defunct Gongola State and then as National Chairman of PDP.

    Tukur who was member of the House of Representatives two decades ago, sought to go to the Senate in 2023 but failed to get the PDP ticket for Adamawa Central Zone.

    The current Commissioner of Works in Governor Ahmadu Fitiri’s cabinet, Adamu Atiku Abubakar, who is a son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, is also said to be interested but observers wonder why he would not prefer ADC where his father is now a leader.

    The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Amos Sunday, known for his ability to surprise his opponents, is also quietly in the race.

    Other contenders in the PDP can be described as new breed politicians who appear to command some following more for their fat purses than for political pedigree.

    One of them is Chief Maurice Vonobolki, a financial expert who retired as a bank assistant general manager.

     In APC, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, holds the aces.

    Ribadu who is the APC leader in Adamawa State by virtue of his NSA Office in Abuja, is also the one in the sure position to decide who gets the party’s ticket for the 2027 governorship election in the state.

    Who succeeds Bayelsa’s  Diri?

    The three senatorial districts in the state are rooting for a fresh look at the power rotation agreement among them.

    Some interest groups say with power having gone round all the senatorial districts, the 2027 polls should be an all comers affair.

    But this argument has not gone down well with some in Bayelsa East senatorial district, who argue that while the two other districts have had full tenures, it has only had a combined six-year tenure between ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-Gov Timipre Silva.

    Ex-President Jonathan served one year into the second term of ex-Gov Dipreye Alamieseigha’s mandate before he was elevated to the office of vice president to ex-President Umaru Yar’Adua.

    Ex-Governor Timipre Sylva, accordingly, served only one term after his bid for tenure elongation which he challenged at the courts failed.

    However conventional wisdom appears to favour rotation of power.

    Within the Bayelsa, All Progressive Congress (APC) top contenders from Bayelsa East said to be interested are incumbent Managing Director of Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, ex-Gov Timipre Sylva, Senator Ben Murray- Bruce,  Petroleum Minister (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpibiri, from Bayelsa West. His ambition will upset the rotation policy if he decides to gun for the top job.

    PDP Governor Duoye Diri has kept his preferred successor close to his chest, but there are speculations that he might settle for Benson Agadaga, the PDP senator representing Bayelsa East.

    Aside Senator Agadaga, it was learnt, Gov Diri could settle for his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo who hails from Bayelsa East senatorial district.

    The National Working Committee of the APC, led by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, yesterday met with leaders and stakeholders of the Bayelsa State Chapter of the party, reaffirming the Party’s commitment to inclusivity, unity, and grassroots strengthening ahead of future elections.

    Details of the meeting were not immediately available.

     Alia in the eye of the storm

    Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia is only two years into his first term but the odds are quite formidable against him already.

    But the Reverend Father who refers to himself as Gafa, meaning the powerful Eagle in Tiv, is determined to do two terms.

    He has been having running battles with politicians even within his own party, APC, including the state House of Assembly.

     At the burial of his traditional ruler in January, Alia said: “For now, I am the only governor of Benue State,” and “if you do not want me, leave the state until after eight years, after my tenure, you can return.”

    His Chief Press Secretary, Sir Kula Tersoo said: “Governor Alia has no serious challenger in the 2027 governorship.”

    Notwithstanding, several candidates are vying to challenge him in 2027. One of them is Chief Mike Aondoakaa, a former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. He is in the APC.

    He has been consulting quietly and possesses a massive financial war chest.

    There is also Hon. Pastor Terwase Orbunde, a former House of Representatives member and Chief of Staff to former Governor Samuel Ortom.

    Prof. Terhemba Shija, a former Commissioner for Information and Culture in Benue State, has also been consulting to take a shot at the 2027 governorship race possible on the platform of ADC.

    Honorable Terkaa Ucha, a two-term member of the Benue State House of Assembly, wants to contest on the platform of PDP.

    The recent defection of former Senate President David Mark from PDP to ADC has left a vacuum in the PDP in the state.

    Those campaigning to displace Otti in 2027 are wasting their time — Says Umuahia Catholic Bishop

    The Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Dr. Michael Kalu Ukpong, says those campaigning to take over from Governor Alex Otti in 2027 are wasting their time, saying that the Governor’s performance  in two years has done the campaign for him.

    Bishop Ukpong stated this when he hosted the Governor to a lunch at Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia, to celebrate his impactful and remarkable achievements.

    ‎The Bishop said that things he thought would be impossible to happen in his lifetime in the state have been made possible by Governor Otti.

    He said: ”There was a time I sent you a text, telling you that for the first time, Abians are proud to be Abians. I have not been to Aba for a long time.

    “Those living there are telling stories of your good works in Aba, which the Catholic Bishop of Aba, Bishop Echema has also confirmed. We are saying, keep it up.

    “If we finish saying everything we are saying without mentioning Igwu (Omenuko) Bridge, then we have not started. Since I became an adult, travelling from Ohafia through Bende-Ohafia Road, once you get to Igwu Bridge, the journey becomes scary until you cross the bridge.

    “Once you cross the bridge, you know that you have started your journey. Coming from Umuahia, it was the same thing.

    “But now, nobody is scared of the bridge again because of the work you have done there. Hence, we say thank you. What I thought was impossible in the past is now possible.

    “I didn’t know that in my lifetime that the bridge would be like what it is now.”

  • Enugu re-run: APC lauds Nnaji for defending democracy

    Enugu re-run: APC lauds Nnaji for defending democracy

    The Enugu chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has applauded Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, for what it described as his courageous role in defending democracy during the just-concluded Enugu South 1 Constituency re-run election.

    In a statement at the weekend by Enugu APC chairman, Barr. Ugochukwu Agballah, the party said the Minister’s presence at the election venue helped to thwart alleged moves by vested political interests to manipulate the exercise.

    “The courage displayed by Chief Uche Nnaji on that day reassured the people that democracy can be protected when men of goodwill stand firm,” Agballah said.

    The APC also congratulated the Labour Party (LP) candidate, Barr. Bright Ngene, who was declared winner of the re-run by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

    Ngene, serving a prison sentence over an alleged community fund scandal, polled 5,862 votes against his closest rival, PDP’s Sam Ngene, who scored 2,000.

    INEC, in a statement by its National Commissioner, Sam Olumekun, confirmed that after disruptions in earlier attempts, the election was finally concluded in the affected eight polling units with 4,616 registered voters, clearing the way for Ngene’s return.

    Agballah commended other political figures who stood their ground to ensure the will of the people prevailed, including LP’s Senator Kelvin Chukwu, APC lawmakers Hon. Chimobi Atu and Hon. Paul Nnamchi, and executives of both APC and LP at the state and local levels.

    He described the outcome as “a signal that Enugu people will no longer tolerate election rigging,” recalling his own past experiences of alleged manipulation in 2003 and 2007.

    “The Labour Party won the 2023 governorship election in this state but was rigged out. The only way to protect the people’s mandate is for all parties to stand together as we saw in Enugu South,” Agballah said.

    While assuring Ngene of APC’s continued support both in securing his mandate and in his legal battle for freedom, Agballah urged PDP’s candidate, Sam Ngene, to show statesmanship by accepting the outcome.

    “You fought gallantly, but as a Christian and leader, you should congratulate your brother and move on. Tomorrow still holds promise for you,” he advised.

    Observers note that Ngene’s imprisonment remains controversial, with many insisting it is politically motivated and tied to the long-drawn battle for the Enugu South seat, which had remained vacant for over two years.

  • ADC mere distractions, says APC southwest

    ADC mere distractions, says APC southwest

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Southwest has described the orchestrated efforts by some politicians to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027 as mere distractions and comedy shows aimed at derailing the ongoing Nigerian Project codenamed the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    It will be recalled that, recently, some politicians made public their readiness to forge a common front in their desire to dislodge the APC government at the centre in a manner similar to how the same APC sent the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) government led by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan away from power in 2015 after winning that year’s presidential election in what was said be an unprecedented political development.

    Read Also: Osun 2026: APC chieftain vows to deliver 100,000 votes

    In a statement issued at the weekend and made available to journalists by the Publicity Secretary in the Southwest, Mr. Ayobami Afolabi, APC said the current crop of anti-Tinubu crusaders have nothing to offer Nigeria and Nigerians as they are failed politicians who lack ideas on how to add value having contributed to the augean stables which the present administration is cleansing.

  • 2027 election: Southwest APC dismisses anti-Tinubu moves as distractions

    2027 election: Southwest APC dismisses anti-Tinubu moves as distractions

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Southwest has described ongoing efforts by some politicians to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections as mere distractions and “comedy shows” aimed at undermining the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In recent weeks, some political actors have announced plans to form a coalition to challenge the APC at the federal level, similar to the strategy that saw the party defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and oust former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 general elections.

    Reacting to the development, the APC Southwest Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ayobami Afolabi, said in a weekend statement made available to journalists that those plotting against the party are “failed politicians” with no credible ideas to move the country forward.

    “They contributed to the Augean stables that the present administration is cleaning up. They have nothing new to offer Nigeria and Nigerians,” Afolabi stated, adding that the party remains focused on delivering on its promises under President Tinubu’s leadership.

    Read Also: Tinubu tasks Nigerians abroad on national development

    “It is obvious that those behind the ill-conceived coalition against the Tinubu administration ahead of the 2027 presidential election are people who should be remorseful on account of their individual or collective contributions to the socio-economic and political challenges which the country is now struggling to overcome.

    These are former vice presidents, governors, ministers, top political appointees and heads of MDAs whose scorecards are nothing to write home about, and they still want to return to power.

    “As a matter of fact, this set of people know that President Bola Tinubu is doing well, but the spirit of self-entitlement, self-aggrandisement and insincerity in them would always get the better of them.

    “Fortunately, most Nigerians have come to realise that President Tinubu has come to put the country on the right track of prosperity, stability and sustainable growth as evident in the bold steps which he has been taking to fix the country.

    “However, it is still not late for the sponsors of the alliance against Tinubu to realize the errors in their anti-people activities since it is certain that they cannot succeed in their mission going by the small sample which voters showed them in the recent by-elections conducted across 12 states in which the APC had more than 75 per cent of the total numbers of state and federal legislative seats contested.

    “Our dear President cannot be distracted as he is poised to succeed in his mission beyond 2027,” Afolabi added.

  • PBAT Vanguard condoles with APC national chairman over mother’s demise

    PBAT Vanguard condoles with APC national chairman over mother’s demise

    The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Democratic Vanguard (PBAT-DV) has commiserated with the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, on the passing of his mother, Mama Lydia Toma Yilwatda.

    In a condolence message made available to journalists, the National Coordinator of PBAT-DV, Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, described the late matriarch as a “kind-hearted, generous, God-fearing and peace-loving woman whose life was a blessing to her family and community.”

    Dr. Jimoh noted that Mama Lydia lived a fulfilled life of service and was fortunate to witness the successes of her children, particularly the emergence of Prof. Yilwatda as the National Chairman of the ruling APC.

    “The transition of Mama Lydia to glory calls for the celebration of a worthy and accomplished life. From testimonies of family members and community folks, it is evident that she was a mother who touched many lives positively,” he said.

    Read Also: Akpabio condoles APC chairman Yilwatda on mother’s death

    He added that the Vanguard, a political support group loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stands in solidarity with the APC chairman and his family during this period of grief.

    According to him, “The entire members of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Renewed Hope Democratic Vanguard sympathise with our amiable National Chairman, Prof. Yilwatda, and his beloved family in this trying moment.

     It is our fervent prayer that Almighty God will grant the gentle soul of Mama Lydia Yilwatda eternal rest while comforting the family. Mama obviously lived a worthy and fulfilled life, deserving of emulation.”

    Mama Lydia Yilwatda, who was widely regarded as a strong pillar in her community, is remembered for her dedication to family values and her unrelenting support for her children.

  • 2027: Delta South APC women leaders declare support for Tinubu, Oborevwori

    2027: Delta South APC women leaders declare support for Tinubu, Oborevwori

    Women leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta South Senatorial District have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the 2027 general elections.

    The endorsement was made during the Delta South APC women/stakeholders unity meeting held at Oleh, Headquarters of Isoko South Local Government Area, and hosted by the Delta South Senatorial Woman Leader, Chief Onome Rita Ogagarojor.

    The motion for the vote of confidence on President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was moved by Hon. Joy Ejemudo, Leader of the Warri South Legislature, and seconded by Hon. Elohor Sim, Majority Leader of Isoko South Legislature.

    The decision was affirmed through a voice vote conducted by Orode Meyiwa Uduaghan, the Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Community

    Support Services and Girl Child Development, Delta State.

    Addressing the gathering, the convener, Chief Onome Rita Ogagarojor, described the unity meeting as more than just a political assembly but a movement aimed at repositioning women for greater political participation.

    She recalled that Delta South is the only Senatorial District in the state to have produced a female senator, adding that the state itself has been blessed with illustrious First Ladies, noting that women have the capacity to achieve even more if they embrace unity.

    She said that; “We have the capacity to do more, and we will do more if we come together in unity. Since the dawn of our democracy, women from this district have shown that leadership is not beyond our reach. What we need now is solidarity to push the boundaries even further.”

    Ogagarojor, emphasized that the Renewed Hope for More Agenda must guide women in politics, urging them to choose collaboration over competition, celebrating achievements of each other, resolve conflicts with maturity, and stand together against injustice. “Women divided are vulnerable, but women united are unstoppable” she said.

    Read Also: Oborevwori releases N10bn to clear backlog of pension in Delta

    Several speakers at the meeting also lent their voices in support of unity and greater political engagement for women.

    Mrs. Mimie Igbrude, a member of Delta State Local Government Service Commission, said it was time for women to take decisive action and work together, stressing: “Men are powerful, but women are influential. With our numerical strength, there is no reason for us to remain at the background.”

    Chief Veronica Tamgbowei, former woman leader, urged participants to see themselves as leaders of the APC in Delta South and continue to show love for one another to move the party forward.

    Ann Iniovosa, immediate past Vice Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, expressed gratitude for the success of the meeting, noting that the APC in Delta South Senatorial District would grow stronger with unity.

    Also speaking, Egbajinor Christabell, Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, lamented that women are often sidelined in political appointments despite being active participants during elections. She urged the women to uplift themselves and avoid fighting each other, warning against being “used and dumped” by politicians.

    In her closing remarks, the State Woman Leader, Mrs. Linda Okwudili, praised the women for coming out in unity, likening the gathering to the solidarity spirit of 1999. She disclosed that Governor Oborevwori has promised to work with women across the state and appealed to them to return to their units and strengthen the party at the grassroots.

    The meeting also honoured prominent women leaders including the wife of the Governor of Delta State, Her Excellency Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; wife of former Governor, Deaconess Rolly Uduaghan; former Chief Whip of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Stella Omu; and the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Mrs. Lyna Ocholor (Esq), among others.

    Others who spoke to our correspondent on the sidelines noted that the meeting not only solidified the women’s endorsement of Tinubu and Oborevwori but also rekindled a new wave of solidarity among APC women in Delta South ahead of 2027.

  • Aspirants linked to FCT minister get APC’s tickets for Rivers council

    Aspirants linked to FCT minister get APC’s tickets for Rivers council

    Ahead of the August 30 local government election in Rivers State, loyalists of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, have been nominated as the chairmanship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Chief Tony Okocha-led leadership of the party.

    From the list of candidates posted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC), Wike’s men, in a surprising shift of party loyalty, were cleared to contest the election on APC platform.

    Most stakeholders were said to be amazed at the way the minister was able to integrate the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into one united political family ahead of the poll.

    While notable PDP members were said to have switched party loyalty to APC to contest the election, three other Wike’s loyalists were asked to remain in PDP and contest the poll.

    While most people attributed the development to the ongoing crisis rocking the PDP at the national level and its implications to the Rivers local government election, others said it was part of the strategic positioning of the state by Wike to deliver bloc votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    The 20 Wike’s foot soldiers flying the chairmanship flags of the APC for the election are Confidence Deko, Gokana Local Government; Dr. Chidi Lloyd, Emohua; Obari Ollormate, Eleme; Akuro Tobins, Okrika; Dr. Thomas Bari-ara; George Onengiyeofori, Asari-Toru; Bob-Fubara Aboiya, among others.

    It was observed that the political family of Wike produced only three chairmanship candidates on PDP platform.

    The PDP candidates are Dr. Gift Worlu for Obio/Akpor, Wike’s home local government; Allwell Ihunda for Port Harcourt City Council and Chukwu Ogbugu for Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government.

    RISIEC had cleared 16 political parties to contest the elections after a screening held at the commission.

    Apart from the PDP and the APC, other parties cleared for the poll are Labour Party, All Progressives Grand Alliance, Zenith Party, Accord Party, African Action Congress, Action People’s Party, and Social Democratic Party.

    Others are Action Alliance, Youth Party, Young Progressive Party, Action Democratic Party, New Nigerian People’s Party, African Democratic Party, National Rescue Movement and Allied People’s Party.

    It was noticed that the APC and the PDP had inaugurated their campaign councils and begun campaigns for the election.

    Read Also: Akpabio condoles APC chairman Yilwatda on mother’s death

    The two political parties featured messages of Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu and drummed support for his re-election in 2027.

    The leadership of the Renewed Hope Political Family in Emohua Local Government inaugurated the campaign council for the election of Sir Chidi Lloyd as chairman, Mrs Amadi Vivian Obiageri as vice chairman and 14 councillors,

    The inauguration was performed by former Chief of Staff Rivers State Government House and NOSDRA Director General, Chief Chukwuemeka Woke.

    Lloyd, the former chairman of Emohua, said he would not take the opportunity for granted, promising to improve on the achievements of his first term in office.

    He urged members of the campaign council to open the doors for new members and returnees from other political groups to the Renewed Hope Political Family.

  • PDP asks court to sack four Osun lawmakers over defection

    PDP asks court to sack four Osun lawmakers over defection

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to order the removal of four lawmakers representing Osun State in the National Assembly for defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The PDP made the application in four separate suits, dated August 20 and filed by its counsel, Rapheal Oyewole.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lawmakers include two senators and two members of the House of Representatives.

    They are: Senator Francis Fadahunsi, representing Osun East Senatorial District; Senator Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi (Osun Central); Omirin Olusanya, representing Atakumosa East/West and Ilesa East/West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, and Taofeek Ajilesoro, representing Ife Central/East/North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

    The plaintiff had, in the originating summons, sued Fadahunsi, Fadeyi, Olusanya, and Ajilesoro as the first defendants in each of the cases.

    While the Senate President is sued as the second defendant in the suit against the senators, the House of Representatives Speaker is named the second defendant in the matter against the two House members.

    The National Assembly, its Clerk, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are listed as third to fifth defendants in the suits.

    The PDP, which sought six questions for determination, asked if by virtue of Section 68(1)(g) of the Constitution 1999 (as amended), a senator or House member, like the lawmakers, are not liable to forfeit their legislative seats after resigning the membership of the plaintiff political party on whose platform they were elected, before the end of the term for which they were elected, devoid of any division, merger and/or faction in the plaintiff political party.

    Read Also: I spent N1.2bn borrowed funds on charity in 2021 — Mbaka

    The party prayed the court to declare that the continued occupation of the legislative seats by the four lawmakers, after defecting from the party on whose platform they were elected, without satisfying the express provision under Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, constitutes a breach of the constitution and renders their seats vacant by operation of law.

    It also prayed the court to make an order of mandamus compelling Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, to, forthwith, declare their seats vacant accordingly.

    The PDP urged the court to direct Akpabio, Abbas, and the INEC to discharge their constitutional duties, as provided by the law, by declaring the seats vacant and initiating processes for the conduct of by-elections into the vacant seats in the senatorial districts and constituencies.

    The party sought an order directing the Clerk of the National Assembly (NASS) to withdraw all entitlements and stop payments of salaries, allowances, including benefits to Fadahunsi, Fadeyi, Olusanya, and Ajilesoro.

    It equally sought an order directing the embattled lawmakers to refund all salaries, emoluments, benefits and allowances received from the date of their resignation from PDP to the date of judgment, having unlawfully retained a legislative seat in violation of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution.

    The PDP said the court decision would be in strict compliance with Section 68(1)(g) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Meanwhile, the suits are yet to be assigned to a judge.

    It would be recalled that the Osun State PDP chapter had, recently, dragged Rep Oluwole Oke, the lawmaker representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of the state, before Justice Emeka Nwite over his defection to the APC.

    The state’s party had continued to activate the provisions of the constitution as contained in Section 68(1)(g), which borders on defection of legislators during the term for which they were elected.