Tag: APC

  • Easter: APC prays for divine strength for Tinubu, urges Nigerians to embrace hope, resilience

    Easter: APC prays for divine strength for Tinubu, urges Nigerians to embrace hope, resilience

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has offered prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, seeking divine strength and wisdom for him as he continues efforts to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

    The party’s goodwill message was conveyed on Sunday in Abuja by its national publicity secretary, Felix Morka, as part of Easter celebrations.

    The APC called on all Nigerians, especially Christians, to rejoice in the spirit of Easter and reflect on the values of hope, patience, sacrifice, and resilience — virtues embodied in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

    The party expressed optimism that with collective effort and faith, the nation would overcome its current trials.

    The statement reads: “The All Progressives Congress (APC) rejoices with Nigerians, especially Christians, on the joyous occasion of Easter celebration.

    “Easter, the joyful end of the Lenten season of fasting and penitence, is core to the Christain faith as it commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It symbolizes God’s eternal triumph over death and the power of light over darkness. 

    “As we celebrate, we enjoin Nigerians to embrace hope, patience, sacrifice, and resilience, some of the priceless values and virtues immanent in Jesus’ death and resurrection. 

    “We join Christians in prayer that the transformative blessings of Easter abide with all Nigerians, strengthen President Bola Tinubu in his determination to tackle and overcome outstanding socio-economic challenges confronting our nation. 

    Read Also: 2027: APC Forum slams Malami for dismissing Al-Makura-led CPC bloc

    “May the worthy example of Christ inspire us to extend love and kindness to the needy and less-privileged as we remain steadfast in prayer for peace, security, unity and sustained progress of our beloved nation. 

    “And may God continue to bless and protect our troops in the frontlines as they defend our freedoms and our homeland,” the party prayed. 

  • And APC Sokoto “bombs” PDP state chapter

    And APC Sokoto “bombs” PDP state chapter

    By Emmanuel Ado

    “Sometimes it is entirely appropriate to kill a fly with a sledgehammer!” Maj. Holdredge

    When Isa Sadiq Acida, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress(APC), decided  to kill a fly, in this case the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sokoto State Chapter, with a sledge hammer,  it was deliberate and was targeted at not just the PDP, but at other flies – opposition elements – that might be tempted to thread the dangerous path of the PDP that has made making wild allegations a way of life.

    Acida, in his world press conference entitled “Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto: A Worthy Ambassador of the APC”, achieved a three – in- one strategic objective. First, he proudly showcased the achievements of its worthy ambassador, Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto. He also succeeded in putting the opposition on notice that the APC would no longer tolerate unwarranted and unsubstantiated accusations against the administration of Governor Sokoto. And lastly, Acida flaunted the readiness of the APC in Sokoto state for the 2027 general elections.

    Going by the swift reaction of the APC to his latest campaign of misinformation, and outright lies against Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, his administration and family, the  State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sokoto State Chapter, Alhaji Bello Aliyu Goronyo would definitely be full of regrets because he definitely got more than he had bargained for: a strong rebuttal through showcasing the achievements of Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto who, in less than two years, has achieved what the PDP administration under former Governor Aminu Tambuwal couldn’t achieve in eight years.

    Since Governor Ahmad Sokoto defeated Saidu Umar, the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections, the party had declared a full scale  war without boundaries on him. And the politically smart governor, seeing through their devilish plot to distract him and for him to end up  in their ignoble boat, refused all entreaties by his supporters to return fire for fire. But, with the 2027 elections already in top gear, the APC has rightly decided to counter the PDP strategy of continuous campaign of misinformation with facts.

    Thankfully, unlike PDP’s Aminu Tambuwal, the APC ambassador- Governor Sokoto- has numerous projects in every sector to showcase. In the words of Isa Sadiq Acida: “We advise our political opponents to borrow a leaf from us and tell  the people how they spent our Commonwealth while they were in office, otherwise they should stop rushing to press to ridicule themselves with unsubstantiated claims that cannot stand a litmus test”.

    What are the facts? Contrary to the warped narrative of the opposition PDP,  Governor Aliyu Sokoto has transparently managed the resources of Sokoto State, the reason he has been able pay salaries,pensions, complete over 250 impactful projects and counting, and liquidate the loans obtained by Tambuwal in less than two years!

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Trump mulls shut down of US embassies in Africa

    It’s a fact that Governor Sokoto has completed all projects that Aminu Tambuwal inherited or started but later abandoned. They include the housing estates,the Independent Power project,the 40 million per day water project, and several roads,including the Rijiya flyover bridge, the only major project that Tambuwal initiated in his eight wasted years as governor and which in his typical nature he also abandoned.

    The national newspapers have a duty to institute an award for the likes of Aminu Tambuwal whose notoriety for abandoned projects is legendary.

    In the Housing Sector, the stark difference between Governor  Sokoto and his predecessor is crystal clear. While the Aminu Tambuwal sold off all Government houses, proceeds of which he couldn’t account for, Governor Sokoto has built a total of 1136 houses, made up of 500 at Gidan Salanke, 500 at Wajake, Wamakko Local Government Areas, and purchased 136 housing units  from the Federal Housing Authority.

    It is a fact that the Ahmad Aliyu administration has constructed a network of roads in Sahara Area,  at Gawon-Nama area, Ramen-Kura around the Abattoir, at Koko Road area, around Saint Paul Primary School, and the J Allen Area. While another Network of roads is being constructed at New Arkilla, Mabera as well as the Tudunwada Area. Others are the Zamfara, Zungeru and Shinkafi roads near the Government House. On the whole, about 48 roads are currently under construction.

    If only the PDP isn’t shameless, it wouldn’t have stirred the hornets nest, because there is so much difference between Governor Sokoto and their own failed governor, Aminu Tambuwal. Aminu Tambuwal was no doubt a colossal failure. And it ought to have known that the difference between Governor Sokoto and the former governor goes beyond Tambuwal seeing the governorship position only as a stepping stone to the presidency, which he attempted unsuccessfully in 2019 and 2023. It is widely believed that Tambuwal had no resources to run the state because of his presidential ambition. In aviation circles, Tambuwal was a considered a “gold customer” due to his penchant for hiring private jets in search for delegates.

    So, if the governor or the local government chairmen are allegedly squandering resources, how have they been able to fund the  myriads of projects they have so far executed without ever borrowing a penny from the banks?

    It’s a fact that long  before May 29, 2023, residents of Sokoto metropolis had no access to pipe borne water because the Sokoto State Water Corporation, heavily indebted to Kaduna Power Company, was disconnected and had no electricity to pump water. Mountains of refuse defaced the landscape, oozing out putrefying odour.  Salaries were paid well into the next month, which demoralized the public servants. Not even the pensioners that gave their youth to the state were spared the agony of governance failure. It’s a fact that Governor Sokoto resolved all these  problems within his first 100 days.

    It’s a fact that by 2023, Aminu Tambuwal  left a liability of over N14 billion in pensions and questionable bank loans, with many assets of the state at risk of being confiscated by the banks. Again, Governor Sokoto changed the narrative within a few months in office. He has not only drastically reduced all liabilities, especially pensions, and made provisions for new retirees, again, without borrowing from the banks.

    The question for the PDP is, how did the government fund the construction of these roads if it had, indeed, squandered the resources of the state? Some of the roads that have been constructed in the 23 local government areas include the Gudun – Tandamare – Rijiya road (6.3 km), Romo – Kaya – Barga road (4.25 km), both in Tambuwal LGA; Dandin Mahe – Mabera road in Shagari LGA (2.9 km), the Ehra – Ruggar Mallam road (6 km) and Ginga Junction – Horo Birni road (3.1 km) both in Shagari  LGA; Kilgori – Kwaidaza road (2.2 km) and Magacci Main Road – Ruggar Kiju (3.1 km) and  Bingaje – Dono road in Yabo LGA (2.6 km) all in Yabo Local Government; Yar Jakuru – Kafar Sanyi road in Bodinga LGA, Wababe Junction – Fajaldu – Illela – Gusau Main Road in Dange Shuni LGA (3.15 km), Shuni Main Road – Gidan Danga – Makere – Dabagi – Tudun Salaru – Girgiri – Sanda Kuwana – Kulalu – Milgoma road, Wamakko Main Road – Wajeke road (1.3 km),Giniga – Yarkanta – Gidan Kawuri – Yarlabe road in Wamakko local Government; Western Bypass Main Road – Makabarta – Kurfi road (2.3 km) in Kware local Government; Telande – Hamma Ali Town (6.2 km) in Kware local, More Main Road – Jumu’at Mosque – Buddau Town in Kware LGA (2.35 km), Gadar Maruda – Galadanchi – Gidan Gero Town in Kware LGA (3.3 km), Lambar Gwaddodi – Gwaddodi Town in Rabah LGA (1.5 km),Lambar Kundus – Kundus Town in Rabah LGA (1.95 km),Lambar Gidan Buwai – Gidan Buwai Town in Rabah LGA (1.8 km),Tangaza – Ruggar Ruwa Town in Tangaza LGA (1.5 km), Tangaza – Zabarmawar Yahaya Town in Tangaza LGA (3.6 km),Gidan Maidebe – Kabawa town in Binji LGA (2.6 km),Binji – Inname road in Binji LGA (5.9 km)and the Dingyadi Main Road – Rumbuki town in Bod.

    A government that’s squandering resources won’t also be constructing the following roads:- The Tangaza- Balle road, the Illela- Gada Road, the Romon Sarki-Romon Liman Road, the Margai-Kebbe segment of Tambuwal-Kebbe Road, the Wurno-Huchi road and the road from Silame Police Station to Silame Bridge, and the Sokoto State segment of the Sokoto -Gummi Road, which is a federal highway.

    Another area that Governor Sokoto has written his name in gold is in the security sector. It must be noted that though security is exclusively that of the federal government,this has not stopped the governor from strengthening the security agencies towards tackling the  security challenges affecting some local government areas, particularly in the Eastern Senatorial District.

    To date, the governor has procured and distributed over 140 patrol vehicles to security agencies to boost their mobility and response capabilities. He has also  established  the Community Guards Corps, and equipped them with essential operational tools and logistics to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies. The 2,600 Guards Corps members have been equipped with 30 units of Hilux Vehicles 2022 model, with full insurance cover and 800 Motorcycles  to ease mobility of the Community Guards Corps personnel.

    The state Government also built, equipped and furnished operational offices for the Community Guards Corps in all the 13 local governments seriously affected by insecurity in the State. The Community Guards are fully armed for the execution of their assigned duties. Without doubt, these efforts have yielded significant results, with security personnel recording major successes in tackling all sorts of criminal activities.

    The achievements of the governor in education,agriculture and health are too numerous to mention. In education the governor continues to make huge investment. In the last two years he has surpassed the UNESCO recommendations.  In the 2025 budget, education got the lion’s share of the N526.88 billion allocation, a clear statement of Governor Sokoto’s commitment beyond intentions because he fully understands the importance of education as the bedrock of development. Schools have been renovated and new classes constructed which has led to a significant increase in enrollment of pupils and drastic reduction in the number of out-of-school children. His scholarship scheme has also enabled students to pursue higher education, both within and outside the country.

    Governor Aliyu Sokoto’s agricultural policy thrust is the massive production of food which would improve the living standard of the people and supply raw materials for the agro-allied industries. The governor has provided farmers with fertilizers, improved seedlings, and modern farming equipment. If Governor Ahmad Sokoto succeeds in his agricultural development initiative, not only will Sokoto State farmers earn better income, but they will ultimately save  Nigeria huge foreign exchange spent importing food.

    The problem with the opposition PDP relics is that they have yet to recover from  the political punches clinically delivered by Governor Sokoto, culminating in their total defeat. In their flip-flop and confused effort to stage a comeback in 2027, they have chosen the shameful path of demonizing an administration that is hugely popular. So if the PDP is not accusing the government of concentrating development in Sokoto metropolis, it would be accusing it of squandering resources. The allegations just don’t add up and the APC deserves commendation for refuting the allegations with facts.

    Though the PDP allegations are frivolous, they have continued to shoot blank,  and beyond generating headlines the PDP hasn’t landed a punch where it matters- with the people- the attacks if left unchallenged, the possibility of their dirt sticking cannot be dismissed, hence the need for the APC to frontally and continuously refute these lies from the pit of hell.

  • ‘2027: PDP, LP, building mansion on sandy soil that will collapse’

    ‘2027: PDP, LP, building mansion on sandy soil that will collapse’

    Chief Modestus Umenzekwe, is one of the leaders of the All Progressives Congress APC is Southeast. An Anambra born politician. He had held various appointments at the federal level and mixed Ministerial appointment by whiskers. In this interview with Southeast Bureau Chief, NWANOSIKE ONU, he speaks on the just concluded APC governorship primary that produced Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the alliances by the opposition parties to oust President Bola Tinubu and the November 8, governorship election in Anambra state among other things. Excerpts…

    APC held it’s State Primary  for the November 8 Governorship election, where Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu emerged winner, what’s the next move now?

    First of all, let me thank God for a successful primary election which we had, let me also thank the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving the National Working Committee, NWC,  led by Dr Umar Granduje unfettered hands to conduct a successful primary . Even though there were small complaints here and there which is the normal thing in any group or association, but the process was very seamless.

    The State Working Committee, SWC, should not be left out in this commendation despite the fact some people raised issues that their names were omitted in the delegate’s list which for me, everybody must not be, I was not a delegate, but I was there as a stakeholder where I coordinated my people. Then, the four contestants, my very good friends, Engr. Johnbosco Onunkwo, Valentine Ozigbo, who hails from my Maternal home, Edozie madu and prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, I congratulate them for following the exercise to a logical conclusion where Prince Ukachukwu finally emerged as the flag-bearer of the party, that shows there is unity of purpose in the APC family in Anambra State. Now that the Primary has come and gone, the flag bearer, Prince Ukachukwu is set to go into the battle field with the whole party members, both high and low. If you listened to his victory speech, he made it clear that he was not talking as somebody who has won the battle, but like somebody who is about to enter the battle field and that is why he said he needs the corporation and assistance of everyone. And recall that prince Ukachukwu ab’nitio, was very instrumental to helping people step into the government house of Anambra State as Governors  and he equally made it clear in his  speech and now he wants to handle that governance by himself to solidify in concrete terms whatever achievements  any past Governor or the incumbent had made as well as bringing innovations in governance in order to link Anambra State proper to the centre. So, right now, we are mending fences making formidable allowances and re alliances  for the party members in order to go to that battle because whether anybody likes it or not, to dislodge the incumbent is a herculean task.

    Therefore, APC must not lose  sleep in trying to achieve this, it must be through a fair, free and credible atmosphere come November, 2025.

    But does Ukachukwu have the capacity to match Soludo in the contest?

    You would have asked me whether former President Muhammadu Buhari had the capacity to match Goodluck Jonathan then as incumbent. But Buhari defeated Jonathan even though it was a very big task. Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the much I know him, has been a goal-getter, he has been there as a Federal House Of Representatives Member where he represented Abuja Municipal. He has been a Philanthropist of note that cut across ethnic divide and he is deep rooted in grassroots mobilization.

    Finally, he is capable even though friends and well wishers may equally give him enough support. He is a young man full of energy and vibrancy and above all, he relates  very well with people high and low. His political tentacles  are spread within the six Geopolitical zones of this country and every nook and cranny of Anambra State. With all these and others unmentioned, the capacity to run the election is all over him.

    But APC seems not to be popular in Anambra and entire southeast and APGA being a movement in the state, what  magic will be deployed to win?

    (Laughs).  What do you mean by APGA being movement? Interjection,  (they worship the party like religion in Anambra). (He continues). It is not true. Before now, particularly Ebonyi and Anambra, Imo and Abia, were majorly APGA, due to the believe we  had in late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu as an enigma.  As a matter of fact, no Igbo person jokes with the name Ikemba Ojukwu till today.  His name is like an oracle in Igbo land. But then, this is politics and the most important thing is to leverage on what is available now to attract the  national cake to the entire southeast and Anambra State is not an exemption. There is a saying that Rome was not built in a day, when you say APGA is a movement there are so many movements in this country. Making sure that southeast gets its own share in government is equally, a movement and that movement has yielded fruits in Imo State, it has yielded fruits in Ebonyi State and after November 8, 2025, it will yield fruits in Anambra State. And mark you, when Ojukwu returned from exile in 1982 , his action was against sectional parties being the reason why he joined NPN, leaving NPP which was like APGA then, in the hands of the South Easterners. He believed that getting the national cake was our right, knowing that we could not get it from outside but from within. So, gradually we are getting there.

    There is this hate attitude by Igbo towards the president, Bola Tinubu, what is that thing the president is not doing well that offends  the zone?

    I do not believe or agree that Igbo hate Mr president, but the devastating effect of the civil war, was and is still too much on the people. They lost a lot both in human and infrastructural development. The only thing they are doing from my own understanding, is calling for the full implementation of the three (Rs) enacted by General Yakubu Gowon in his post war speech of ‘no victor, no vanquished’, which are, Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction and so, Ndigbo are saying let there be more equitable distribution of the national assets to heal the wound totally. So, they  are doing like Oliver twist, they don’t hate Mr president, after all, why have they migrated to everywhere, assisting to raise more structures in those areas than their places of  birth? Those of us who are  unrepentant supporters of the federal government that were part of the number of votes Mr President got during the last election, does it mean that we hate him? In all my political publications over the years,  I have been very consistent, eulogizing and defending the policies of APC led Federal Administration at my own cost, are my not a core Igboman? It is misconception and misrepresentation of facts.

    Read Also: Keep supporting Tinubu, Fubara tells Rivers

    And this our cry for equitable sharing of the country’s resources is yielding good result being the reason why  we got the second Niger Bridge, built by the Buhari led administration, using the hero of his government, Dr Babatunde  Raji Fashola, SAN, the then Minister of Works and housing. Today, President Tinubu has appointed our brother, senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of works and said go and make your people happy. Jonathan’s administration appointed Dezieni Alison Madueke as petroleum Minister and Other appointments two numerous to mention like that of Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. The southeast Development Commission SEDC, as created by the Jagaban of African, Bola Tinubu and I  believe, that in no distant time, one more state will be created from the Southeast to bring them  at per with other regions in the country.

    So, It will be unfair for anybody to think that the Igbo hate Mr President or that Mr President hate the Igbo, it is not so. As i commend Mr President for the giant strides he is making despite the hardship in the system which was not created by him, I urge him to kindly accommodate more Igbo indigenes in federal government appointments which will add more value in healing any wound that may have existed.

    Two years to 2027 and opposite parties are rallying, ganging up against APC, do you think Mr President stands any chance?

    That is the greatest joke of the year. PDP was in government for 16 years and I have said it time without number that APC must do 16 years for us to draw comparable analysis. But anytime I say it, some people will start attacking me. APC will do 16 years before any other gang up.

    Now, coming to Mr President, this is a man that knows the political terrain, this is the man that brought certain members of opposition to political lime light. So, the political gang up to oust President Tinubu will not work unless he decides not  to re-contest otherwise, the opposition is building a mansion on a sandy soil that will collapse.

    Are you sure Tinubu will visit Anambra State to campaign for APC when it  is being alleged that he’s working closely with Soludo?

    There is great difference between governance and being a party man. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is always a party man and that is why you see him succeeding and that is why he contested once and won the election because he took care and related with his party members in all the zones and it worked for him. So, having the governor of Anambra State in his economic team, has nothing to do with campaigning for his party’s candidate. He made it clear that he is going to run a unity government and not winner takes it all, and he is reflecting it in his appointments . But it is totally different from making sure his party APC wins governorship election in any part of the country, Anambra not an exception.

     Your party lost one powerful member, Sir Paul Chukwuma and some other governorship contestants  quit the race in anger, don’t you think it will affect APC during the election.

    You said Paul Chukwuma, Chukwuma Umeoji and Obiora Okonkwo( great men). Well, I have not discussed with any of them why they did so whether in anger like you  said. I will answer this question well after hearing  from them. However, it’s their decision. Two of them are my friends and  we respect each other. I will talk about them after hearing from them. However, no one knows what it will resort to, but we are still watching the situation. But i know the flagbearer and the party faithful will not fold their arms. If indeed, they left in anger, he will know how to heal the wound. They promised to work to achieve the renewed hope agenda of Mr president, so they did not leave in anger.

  • Ekiti APC leaders endorse Tinubu, Oyebanji for re-election 

    Ekiti APC leaders endorse Tinubu, Oyebanji for re-election 

    Leaders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) have unanimously endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for a second term in office, citing their exemplary leadership qualities and impactful policies as reason for their endorsement. 

    The endorsement, which was passed at a special Caucus meeting of the chapter of APC at Iyin Ekiti, was attended by the first civilian Governor of the state, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and the immediate past Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi, as well as Oyebanji. 

    Also in attendance were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Senator Yemi Adaramodu; Ekiti Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu; serving and former  members of the National and State Assembly, Party Chieftains, Among others. 

    Speaking while moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a very loud voice vote, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), commended President Tinubu for his decisive economic reforms that have revitalized the country’s economy as well as his comprehensive security strategies that have addressed the root cause of insecurity in the country within one and half years in office. 

    He said for these reasons and several other positive outcomes, the President deserved to be supported for re-election in order to sustain the gains and ensure their long term effect.

    Describing the President’s reforms as “transformational”, with profound impact on the socio-economic landscape, Senator Adaramodu said “I, on behalf of the National Assembly Caucus and as a true progressive member of our great party, APC, I move that we in Ekiti APC, want to adopt continuity, starting from our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that comes 2027, we are moving that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should continue as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that the Renew Hope Agenda shall continually be renewed”.

    Addressing concerns over high-profile political alignments outside the APC, the Senator  insisted the party remains unshaken. “We are not worried. What do you expect politicians to do other than play politics? Whether through lies or propaganda, they have to try something.”

    While moving the motion for the endorsement  of Governor Oyebanji for re- election, the Speaker Aribasoye said the Governor had  demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities characterised by his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people and all round development of the state.

    The Speaker praised the Governor for making the party highly acceptable to the people through his sterling performance, people-oriented policies and programs as well as consistently prioritizing the needs and aspirations of the citizens, thereby fostering trust and unity across the state.

    The Speaker said: “I, Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, rise to move a motion of utmost importance concerning the leadership of our great party, APC under the leadership of our dear Governor Biodun Oyebanji who has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities characterised by integrity, dedication and deep commitment to the welfare and development of Ekiti and that his sterling performance has resulted in remarkable infrastructure development, enhance security, improved healthcare, education outcomes and the overall social economic growth of the state, I therefore move that this distinguished caucus of our great party APC, in Ekiti pass a vote of confidence in Governor Oyebanji, affirming our unwavering support for his leadership and vision for Ekiti. 

    “Furthermore I move that this caucus endorse Governor Oyebanji to contest the forth coming 2026 gubernatorial election in Ekiti State”

    Read Also: Keep supporting Tinubu, Fubara tells Rivers

    Fayemi said: “Generally speaking, I think we have a lot to thank God for and we must thank our Governor, everywhere we turn to its BAO, our leader and I do exchange notes regularly, when i was coming back to the country yesterday morning, I travelled with somebody from the Senate from London and he said thank you very much for the Governor. 

    “He said I went to Ekiti for Senator Bamidele’s conferment of honourary degree, you need to extend Ekiti magic to the rest of the country to help us. This is all due to the way our Governor has conducted himself and how he conveyed his sense of humility and service to the party both at the national and the state levels, and that is why we are all gathered here to happily work together with him to accomplish the task of greater development for the people”.

    Responding, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to leaders of the party for their belief in his leadership acumen and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and for creating a conducive environment that has allowed states to thrive through bold national policies and reforms.

  • Enugu APC suspends Sen Utazi over alleged anti-party activities

    Enugu APC suspends Sen Utazi over alleged anti-party activities

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State on Friday announced the suspension of Senator Chuka Utazi for alleged anti-party activities.

    Utazi, a two-time senator (2015-2023), who represented Enugu North Senatorial District under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), decamped from his party and joined APC in 2024.

    But in a letter of a notification addressed to the State Chairman of APC, Barr Ugochukwu Agballah, and signed by the Chairman of APC Uzo-Uwani LGA, Chief Chris Ajodo; the Secretary, Hon. Pius Diara;, and APC Chairman, Nkpologu Ward, Hon. Albert Aniebonam, the party stated that Utazi’s suspension was sequel to and consequent upon a complaint/petition from the Senator’s

    Nkpologu ward, alleging anti-party activities. 

    Read Also: Insecurity: Sokoto steps up mechanisms against banditry, other crimes for peace, stability

    The ward accused the former lawmaker of having participated in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Enugu North Zonal Chapter meetings and endorsement of Barr. Peter Mba,  the Governor of Enugu State, for a second term in the coming 2027 election.

    They also accused the senator of granting interviews and engaging in open blackmail and de-marketing of the APC Enugu State Chapter in public, among other infractions.

    “These allegations were backed up by online video evidence as the case may be,” the party officials stated in the notification letter, which was also copied to the leader of the party in the state, Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

    The party officials further clarified, “On receipt of the said complaint, the local government on 8/4/2025 set up a three-man disciplinary committee which notified the Senator of the petition and duly invited him to appear before the disciplinary body.”

  • 2026: Murder of reinstated council chairman targeted to weaken APC in Osun West-Group

    2026: Murder of reinstated council chairman targeted to weaken APC in Osun West-Group

    A group within the All Progressives Congress(APC), Osun State, has said the murder of the reinstated chairman of Irewole Local Government Area, Hon. Remi Abass, was aimed at weakening the party in Osun West Senatorial District ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

    The group, under the aegis of The Osun West Majiyagbe Ambassadors (TOWMA), boasted during a rally held in Iwo town to endorse the Osun West Senatorial District to produce an APC governor candidate that the APC will continue to grow in the zone.

    The Acting Coordinator of the group, Afeez Ismail, who recalled that Abass was gruesomely killed during the council control crisis in front of Irewole council, demanded justice for the slain LG boss.

    He said: “Abbas’ murder was a scheme to weaken the West’s aspiration, and we vow that his struggle for equity will not be in vain because he pursued this when he was alive.

    Read Also: CPC youths endorse Tinubu, declare loyalty to APC

    “They wanted to destabilise us(APC) by killing Honourable Abass, they wanted a weak zone to be given the ticket so that winning will be difficult for us. His life was dedicated to advocating for fairness, and in honour of his legacy, we urge APC stakeholders not to let his death be in vain.”

    He urged APC leadership, including President Bola Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, and Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, to consider their demands in the spirit of equity and justice.

  • 2026: Murder of reinstated chairman targeted to weaken APC in Osun West — Group alleges

    2026: Murder of reinstated chairman targeted to weaken APC in Osun West — Group alleges

    …endorses Osun West to produce APC guber candidate 

    A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has alleged that the killing of Hon. Remi Abass, the reinstated chairman of Irewole local government area, was a calculated attempt to weaken the party’s base in the Osun West Senatorial District ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

    Operating under the aegis of The Osun West Majiyagbe Ambassadors (TOWMA), the group made the claim during a rally in Iwo town where they declared support for the emergence of an APC gubernatorial candidate from the district.

    The group’s acting coordinator, Afeez Ismail, recalled that Abass was brutally murdered in front of the Irewole council secretariat during a crisis over council control. 

    He demanded justice for the slain chairman, describing the murder as a blow to the zone’s political aspirations.

    “Abass’ murder was a scheme to weaken the West’s aspiration, but we vow that his struggle for equity will not be in vain. He stood for fairness while alive and we will continue his fight,” Ismail said.

    Read Also: APC commends Umahi for avoiding rift with Gov. Nwifuru

    “They wanted to destabilise us(APC) by killing Honourable Abass, they wanted a weak zone to be given the ticket so that winning will be difficult for us. His life was dedicated to advocating for fairness, and in honour of his legacy, we urge APC stakeholders not to let his death be in vain.”

    He urged APC leadership from President Bola Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, National Secretary Ajibola Basiru, and Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal to consider their demands in the spirit of equity and justice.

  • Enugu APC suspends Sen Utazi over alleged anti-party activities

    Enugu APC suspends Sen Utazi over alleged anti-party activities

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Uzo-Uwani local government area of Enugu state has suspended former Senator Chuka Utazi over alleged anti-party activities.

    Utazi, who served as senator for Enugu North from 2015 to 2023 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), defected to the APC in 2024. 

    However, a letter addressed to the state APC chairman, Ugochukwu Agballah, announced his suspension following a petition from his Nkpologu Ward.

    The letter, signed by Uzo-Uwani APC Chairman Chief Chris Ajodo, Secretary Hon. Pius Diara, and Nkpologu Ward Chairman Hon. Albert Aniebonam, cited Utazi’s alleged involvement in PDP activities, including attending PDP zonal meetings and endorsing Governor Peter Mbah for a second term in 2027.

    He was also accused of granting media interviews that allegedly blackmailed and de-marketed the APC in Enugu state, among other infractions.

    “These allegations were backed up by online video evidences as the case may be,” the party officials stated in the notification letter, which was also copied to the leader of the party in the state, minister of innovation science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

    The party officials further clarified, “On receipt of the said complaint, the local government on 8/4/2025 setup a three-man disciplinary committee which notified the senator of the petition and duly invited him to appear before the disciplinary body. 

    “The invitation was however ignored by the respondent. The above notwithstanding, the committee carried out a thorough investigation of the allegations and came out with a verdict of “guilt”. 

    “The committee found the conduct of Senator Utazi highly disappointing, repugnant and unbecoming of a bona fide member of APC, and hence, recommended his indefinite suspension from the party.”

    Meanwhile, a former state chairman of the party, Ben Nwoye, has resigned his membership of the party over what he described as continuous act of injustice and lack of rule of law in the state chapter of the party.

    Addressing a press conference in Enugu, Nwoye, a foundation member of the party, stated that the core values for which it was formed years ago had been abandoned.

    He stated that there is no unity and peace in the party in his state, explaining that the party’s symbol “broom” has been seriously “scattered” in the state.

    “With deep sense of responsibility I write to inform you that I hereby resign as a member of All Progressives Congress. My resignation is as a result of disintegration of the leadership of party in Enugu State.

    Read Also: 2027: North central APC forum applauds CPC’s rejection of opposition coalition against Tinubu 

    “The bunch of “Broom” which we painstakingly tied together in 2013 at a time when we were called unprintable names has loosened and permanently scattered. All efforts made by the party elders to gather the “Broom” and reassemble it has failed. In its current form, further attempts to reassemble the “Broom” in Enugu State is no longer practicable”.

    He continued: “What is left of the “Broom” are two skeletal structures. One of each structures is held by two strong men. One of the strong men claims Chairmanship by judicial pronouncement. While the other claims Chairmanship through arrogant disobedient of the same judicial pronouncement aided by the silent approval of the National Leadership

    “The leadership of the party in South East are fully engaged in vindictive politics. They are not interested in adding another State to the two States the party controls in the South East. As far as they are concerned, the supremacy of the party is measured by how low they can go to oppress their perceived political enemies. These they do, without recourse to the core principles upon which APC stands -Justice, Peace and Unity. To say the least, the Zonal leadership in the South East has lost direction.”

    Nwoye said that the APC National Leadership had maintained willful blindness to issues in the party in the state, hence “allowing the warring factions to self-destruct and strangulate the party in Enugu State.

    “To worsen the situation, the APC National leadership treats party elders’ calls for reconciliation with disdain and disrespect. Loyal party members calling for party unity are treated like conquered and captured political warriors.

    “On the basis stated above, I engaged in extensive consultations with my grassroots followers and I have come to the conclusion that it is time to move on,” he added.

  • 2027: North central APC forum applauds CPC’s rejection of opposition coalition against Tinubu 

    2027: North central APC forum applauds CPC’s rejection of opposition coalition against Tinubu 

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (NC APC) forum has commended the bloc of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), led by former Nasarawa state governor Tanko Al-Makura, for rejecting the growing coalition of opposition politicians against President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

    The forum described the CPC bloc’s position as a reaffirmation of loyalty to both Tinubu and the ruling party.

    The opposition coalition, reportedly spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna state governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, is working to unite anti-APC forces ahead of the 2027 elections. 

    However, amid growing speculation that the CPC bloc would join the alliance, particularly after El-Rufai claimed he had Buhari’s blessing to leave the APC, Al-Makura and other CPC stalwarts convened at his Abuja residence on Wednesday to distance themselves from the coalition.

    The meeting culminated in a press statement signed by Al-Makura, former Katsina State Governor Bello Masari, and 21 others, where they dismissed any defection rumours and emphasized their “unwavering loyalty and solidarity” to the APC and President Tinubu’s administration.

    Reacting in a statement on Friday by its Chairman, who was a member of APC 2023 campaign council member, Saleh Zazzaga, the North-Central APC Forum hailed Al-Makura’s leadership, saying it reinforced the region’s unwavering support for the President.

    “The North-Central APC Forum salutes the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc led by former Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, for snubbing the opposition coalition being formed against President Bola Tinubu and our great party, the All Progressives Congress, APC.

    Read Also: NCDC: Tinubu is a listening president, says North Central APC Forum

    “By this singular act, Tanko Al-Makura has shown that he is a committed, loyal party man who believes strongly in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and the APC. 

    “He and his team have demonstrated loyalty to the party and to Mr. President, and we wholeheartedly commend them for this exemplary conduct,” the NC APC Forum stated.

    The Forum noted that the CPC decision has sent a message to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 election, adding that the message, which is loud and clear, is that Nigerians should reject any attempt to derail the reforms and good work being done by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to turn the fortunes of the country around.

    The Forum accused opposition figures of being driven by personal interests, noting, “The failed politicians who are championing the coalition against Mr. President do not have anything better to offer Nigerians, they do not even have the interests of Nigerians at heart, they are only aggrieved because they lost the last election, and they are not part of President Bola Tinubu’s government.

    “Just as the Tanko Al-Makura-led CPC bloc has shown that they are people of integrity and honour by rejecting the coalition, we urge Nigerians to reject the coalition and any other attempt to turn back the progress recorded so far under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.”

    The Forum recalled the North-Central’s pivotal role in the formation of the APC, noting that former Governor Tanko Al-Makura was the only sitting governor from the CPC bloc who actively participated in the merger that birthed the party, a feat unmatched by some other zones.

    Despite this contribution, it lamented that the region was marginalized under the Buhari administration, which informed the Forum’s earlier decision not to enter into any political alliance with the North-East and North-West blocs ahead of future elections.

    “During Buhari’s government, the North-Central suffered most, we were denied infrastructure, our roads were not attended to, and the high level of insecurity in the region was not addressed. Instead, the North-East and North-West concentrated all the benefits in their zones,” the group recalled.

    It, however, pointed out that under President Tinubu, the region has received renewed attention, prompting a reconsideration of its earlier stance and a renewed commitment to deliver six million votes for his reelection and the APC.

    “President Tinubu has reversed the marginalization experienced by the North-Central under Buhari, thereby finally giving the zone a sense of belonging and recognizing its strategic contribution to the formation of the ruling party,” Zazzaga noted.

    The Forum acknowledged major infrastructural projects, key appointments, and gains recorded in the campaign against insecurity as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment.

    Further stressing that the North-Central is solidly behind Tinubu, the APC Forum noted that the zone was the first to endorse the President for another term with a promise to deliver six million votes in 2027.

    “With former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura fully on board, the North-Central APC Forum is confident of actualizing the promise to deliver six million votes for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    “The North-Central is indeed for the APC and President Bola Tinubu and this is not surprising when one considers the historical role played by the zone in the formation of the APC,” Zazzaga assured in the statement added.

  • Ex- Gov candidate, 3,000 others join APC in Ekiti

    Ex- Gov candidate, 3,000 others join APC in Ekiti

    A former Deputy Governorship candidate on the platform of the defunct All Nigerian Peoples’ Party(ANPP) in Ekiti state, Stephen Abiodun Ojo has defected to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC)

    Ojo with 3, 000 members of the ANPP across the state were received by the Ekiti APC Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe on Thursday in Ilupeju-Ekiti, Oye local government area.

    Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Ojo said the decision to join APC was informed by the landmark achievements and developmental strides of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

    “Its like coming home and one cannot but join a progressive train to contribute my quota to the development of the party and the state.I am happy to join the train of his excellency and i want to assure the party of my commitment, loyalty and love for thr BAO second term agenda.

    “I have come with over 3000 followers to join the APC and i can boastly announce that the party is on course to win the next guber election with a landslide victory” he added.

    Receiving the defectors, the APC Publicity Secretary commended them for taking the decision to join APC, saying they had chosen the right path.

    Read Also: APC is set to take over FCT, says Ganduje

    Dipe assured the defectors of equal treatment, noting that APC is a party for all and their is level playing ground for all either new or old members.

    “On behalf of the National Chairman of our great party, APC, I welcome you and your followers to this great party. I want to assure you that you have come to the right party and the welfarism of you and your followers remains our top priority.

    “The progressives party is your home and you can be rest assured our party is on course for the repositioning of the state.”

    Former Chairman of the party and Elder statesman, High Chief Jide Awe assured the decampees of equal opportunities in the party.

    The Special Adviser on political matters to the Governor said that the defection was a major boost to the APC ahead of the 2026 governorship, saying there was no opposition to the broom party in Ekiti.

    “Otunba Stephen Abiodun Ojo is a golden name and with what we see here today, the acceptance is massive and it is a testament to the fact that he has a good reputation in his community and such personality is a good addition to our great party,” he added.