Author: Gabby

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has emphasized that June 12 remains a cornerstone in Nigeria’s political evolution and democratic progress. In a Democracy Day message released on Thursday in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, highlighted how this date embodies the persistent democratic hopes of Nigerians.

Abdullahi pointed out that June 12 serves as a powerful indication that the voices of citizens carry weight, their electoral choices matter, and the legitimacy of governments stems from the populace. He stated, “June 12 is undeniably one of the most pivotal dates in our nation’s political timeline, reminding us that authority flows from the people.”

However, the ADC spokesperson urged that Democracy Day should not solely focus on celebrating historical battles but also provide a chance to evaluate the current state of democratic growth. He argued that the true measure of democracy lies not in the duration of civilian governance but in tangible improvements in citizens’ well-being, liberties, and prospects.

Abdullahi noted that ongoing issues like insecurity, economic struggles, and dwindling trust in institutions continue to hinder Nigeria’s democratic advancement. He observed that escalating expenses for food, transport, healthcare, shelter, and education are exerting tremendous strain on families and enterprises. “Our youth, who should be driving national progress and revitalization, are instead struggling to find opportunities and optimism within the country,” he lamented.

The ADC leader rejected any notion that insecurity, poverty, and economic difficulties are unavoidable, asserting that effective governance can reverse these trends. He declared, “For Nigeria to achieve enduring peace, our approach to security must be intelligence-driven, tech-enabled, community-grounded, and locally tailored.”

Abdullahi outlined the ADC’s vision, which prioritizes economic reforms to lower living costs, bolster businesses, and enhance the quality of life for Nigerians. The party is committed to fostering transparency, accountability, food security, and institutional changes to rebuild public faith in democratic governance. He concluded, “We believe government must once more be judged by outcomes, not rhetoric, excuses, or media stories, but by the welfare of Nigerians.”

The ADC extended its congratulations to Nigerians on Democracy Day and called on citizens to stay dedicated to constructing a safer, wealthier, and more responsible democratic society.

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has called on politicians to treat party primaries as healthy competitions rather than hostile confrontations. Delivering his Democracy Day address to Lagosians and Nigerians at large, Obasa emphasized that internal party elections should foster unity, not division.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Research, Media, and Documentation, Adeshina Oyetayo, the speaker underscored the importance of prioritizing dialogue, internal cohesion, and mutual respect among party members. He reminded politicians that democratic processes thrive on constructive engagement, not conflict.

Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Obasa described it as a landmark date in Nigeria’s history. “Every June 12 serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our heroes and the resilience of Nigerians in defending freedom, justice, and democratic values,” he stated.

He further noted that 27 years into the Fourth Republic, the nation must reaffirm its commitment to democratic governance as the most viable path to development and prosperity. Obasa added, “Party primaries are contests, not wars. We must resolve differences through democratic means, strengthen our structures, and remain focused on delivering good governance.”

Concluding his message, the speaker expressed confidence that a united All Progressives Congress (APC) would consolidate democratic gains and continue driving national progress and stability.

Moses Paul, a former chairmanship candidate for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), has accused political adversaries of orchestrating the turmoil within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a deliberate attempt to cripple the party. Speaking on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ on Thursday, Paul asserted that external forces are working to sow discord among the party’s top three leaders: Seriake Dickson, Peter Obi, and Rabi’u Kwankwaso.

He emphasized that Peter Obi had no role in nominating any candidates for the party, countering claims that the former presidential candidate was involved in the ongoing disputes. Paul warned that the ultimate goal of these machinations is to create chaos and collapse the NDC from within. "The plan is to fracture the alliance between these three wise men," he stated, referring to Dickson, Obi, and Kwankwaso.

Paul urged party members and the public to recognize these efforts as an external agenda aimed at destabilizing the NDC. He clarified that Obi neither nominated nor influenced any candidates, insisting that the narrative suggesting otherwise is false propaganda. "We must see through these divisive tactics," Paul added, calling for unity to thwart what he described as a calculated assault on the party’s foundation.

Eunice Atuejide, a former presidential candidate under the National Interest Party, has issued a direct challenge to Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). She demands that Okonkwo present every piece of damaging evidence he claims to hold against Peter Obi in a court of law. This challenge was made public during her appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program this past Thursday.

Atuejide, who describes herself as a devoted supporter of Peter Obi, emphasized that she refuses to back any individual with a criminal past or one who cannot withstand public scrutiny. She wants complete transparency to ensure her support is well-placed. ‘I am calling on Kenneth Okonkwo to submit in court all incriminating information he has against Peter Obi,’ she declared.

She went on to explain that her motivation stems from a desire for a better future for her children. ‘I am following Peter Obi wholeheartedly, with my entire being, and I do not wish to follow a man with a criminal record or one who cannot be thoroughly examined by the public. My children are watching everything, and they are proud that their mother supports someone different from the typical Nigerian politician. For their sake, I need Mr. Okonkwo to fully disclose every detail.’

Atuejide further stated that she has informed her leader of her intention to push for the continuation of this case in court. She wants everyone with potentially damaging information about Obi to step forward. ‘I want to see all of it,’ she asserted, reiterating her commitment to a transparent process.

With the African Democratic Congress (ADC) primaries concluded, the spotlight now shifts to Atiku Abubakar’s search for a vice-presidential candidate. The former vice president previously selected Peter Obi in 2019 and Ifeanyi Okowa in 2023 as his running mates.

Atiku secured the ADC presidential ticket several weeks ago by garnering the most votes during the party’s primary election. Reports suggest he is eyeing the Southeast region for his running mate, with prominent names like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), and former House Speaker Emeka Ihedioha being floated.

However, according to Arise News political director Sumner Sambo, Okonjo-Iweala has declined the offer, preferring to remain at the WTO where she began her second term in September 2023, which runs until 2029. She communicated her decision directly to the Atiku camp, citing her commitment to her current role.

Ihedioha, a former Imo State governor and ADC member, remains a strong contender. Meanwhile, speculation also points to the South-South region, with former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, a two-term Rivers State governor, being considered. Atiku recently held a private meeting with Amaechi, sparking rumors about a possible partnership.

APC chieftain Sogbeye Eli argues that selecting a running mate from the Southeast may not yield significant votes for Atiku in 2027, given Peter Obi’s influence in the region. Conversely, lawyer Maduabuchi Idam believes that picking a Southeast running mate could challenge Obi’s ambition and foster national cohesion.

Amid the uncertainty, ADC chieftain Dele Momodu stirred speculation by sharing a flyer depicting himself as Atiku’s running mate, touting the ticket as the right choice for Nigeria.

Atiku’s aide, Phrank Shaibu, insists the decision will be based on competence, not symbolism. He emphasizes that the vice president must contribute meaningfully to governance and national rebuilding.

The national leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has called on party chieftains to ensure their supporters behave responsibly.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, Dickson addressed the growing criticism leveled against the party. He emphasized that the NDC would not permit anyone to tarnish the reputation of its members.

Expressing his frustration, Dickson said he could not understand why some individuals were portraying the NDC negatively and why their leaders were not taking action to correct them. He recalled that when these members joined the party, they agreed to work together to build a strong political platform. He reiterated that the party would support its flag bearers through the general elections to provide the kind of government Nigerians deserve.

Dickson stressed that the NDC would not allow anyone who recently joined the party to damage someone else’s image, especially after the party had done so much for them.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed its complete readiness for the upcoming Ekiti State gubernatorial election, scheduled for Saturday, 20 June 2026. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, provided a comprehensive update during a stakeholder meeting in Ado-Ekiti on 11 June, detailing operational, technological, and logistical arrangements.

According to Amupitan, the Commission has finalized a clean and legally verified voter register, now including 1,059,360 registered citizens—an increase from the 2023 figure of 987,647. This growth stems from the addition of 66,664 new registrants during the first two phases of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. The use of the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) has effectively eliminated 2,103 duplicate registrations, bolstering the integrity of the voter roll.

Voting will take place across all 16 local government areas, 177 registration areas (wards), and 2,445 polling units. INEC aims for simultaneous activation of all polling units at exactly 8:30 a.m. on election day. The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) will be the sole tool for voter authentication and accreditation, with results transmitted directly to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) for real-time public verification.

Amupitan emphasized a strict policy: “No PVC, no accreditation, and no voting—no bypasses, no exceptions.” The Commission has also introduced assistive technologies such as Braille ballot guides and magnifying glasses for voters with disabilities, ensuring equitable access.

On security, INEC has collaborated with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) to conduct detailed threat mapping across the state. High-risk areas identified include Ado-Ekiti, Effon, Ekiti South West, Ikere, Irepodun/Ifelodun, and Oye, which are vulnerable to political thuggery and ballot disruption. The EFCC and ICPC have been engaged to combat vote-buying and financial inducement at all polling units.

Amupitan also referenced the Peace Accord signed by all 13 participating political parties on 21 May 2026, urging that its principles be honored not just on paper but in practice. He warned that the accord must not be treated as a mere formality, but as a binding commitment to peaceful conduct.

To ensure transparent oversight, INEC has accredited 91 media organizations—deploying 675 journalists—and 98 observer groups (96 domestic and 2 international). Amupitan called on the media to report accurately and fairly, and on observers to remain neutral and present findings truthfully.

The Ekiti election is part of a broader electoral activity: on the same day, legislative bye-elections will be held in six states, including Enugu North, Nasarawa North, Rivers South East, Ondo South Senatorial Districts, Dawakin Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency (Kano), and Zuru State Constituency (Kebbi). Amupitan assured stakeholders that the same rigorous standards will apply across all concurrent elections.

Ekiti State Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi confirmed that non-sensitive materials have been received and managed appropriately. Sensitive materials will be deployed next week, while training of election personnel continues. The Commissioner of Police, CP Michael Falade, pledged full deployment of security forces to protect voters, candidates, and officials.

Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) chairman Hon. Adeniji Akinropo Philip called for peaceful conduct and a level playing field, urging parties to see themselves as members of a common community rather than rivals.

Earlier, Amupitan held a strategic meeting with the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, presenting INEC’s readiness profile and enlisting their moral authority to promote peaceful elections. He appealed to traditional leaders to use their influence to discourage vote-buying and encourage early turnout.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State, Adamu Usman Ahmed, has declared his intention to prevent Governor Bala Mohammed from installing a preferred successor in the upcoming election.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, Ahmed noted that Bauchi voters have historically made independent choices and will reject any attempt to impose a governor.

“Bauchi people are known for their wisdom,” he said. “No governor in the state’s history has ever succeeded in handing over to a chosen candidate. That gives the opposition a real chance to win.”

Governor Bala Mohammed, who once led the PDP Governors’ Forum, recently defected to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) following internal party conflicts.

Ahmed pointed out that the current political landscape has shifted, with multiple parties vying for power. “In previous elections, only two parties were in contention. Now, with seven or eight parties fielding candidates, the dynamics are different—and that works to our advantage.”

The PDP candidate also outlined his vision for the state, emphasizing job creation as a top priority. “Our administration will focus on reducing unemployment and creating opportunities for young people,” he stated.

The United States has temporarily shut down its diplomatic operations in Nigeria, including the embassy in Abuja and the consulate in Lagos. This decision aligns with the observance of the June 12 Democracy Day holiday.

According to an official announcement from the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, both facilities will be closed on Friday, June 12, 2026. The statement highlighted that the closure is in recognition of the national holiday commemorating the country’s democratic transition.

Earlier, the Nigerian government had declared Friday as a public holiday to mark Democracy Day. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his address to the nation, urged citizens to maintain faith in the country despite ongoing challenges. He emphasized the importance of unity and resilience, calling on Nigerians to continue believing in their nation’s potential.

The temporary closure of the U.S. diplomatic offices underscores the significance of the Democracy Day celebration, reflecting international acknowledgment of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

On Friday, a large crowd converged in Lagos to stage a renewed #EndBadGovernance protest, using the Democracy Day occasion to call for urgent action from the government on issues like economic suffering, rising crime, joblessness, and the increasing cost of living.

The peaceful march involved activists, non-governmental organizations, and worried residents who moved through several parts of the city holding signs that read “Release All Detainees Now,” “Stop Anti-People Policies,” and “We Need Living Wages and More Jobs.”

Demonstrators voiced deep concern over the nation’s worsening economic conditions and called on authorities to implement concrete measures to alleviate the hardships faced by the populace.

The protest follows recent reports of mass kidnappings in Oyo and Borno States, adding to public anger over rising living expenses and economic struggles.

Those taking part highlighted how inflation, higher transport costs, and reduced spending power are hurting ordinary Nigerians, and they demanded policies that would lessen the load on the people.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights activist Femi Falana was present at the protest, adding his voice to demands for better leadership, stronger security, and economic changes that would enhance the well-being of citizens.

Earlier, Falana joined various civil society groups in declaring June 12 a day for nationwide rallies, pointing to widespread insecurity, hunger, and economic problems affecting millions.

Security forces were deployed to oversee the demonstration and ensure calm throughout the event.

Meanwhile, a different set of demonstrators gathered at the same location to show support for the federal government’s ongoing economic and policy changes.

These pro-government supporters carried banners saying “Nigeria’s Future Is Bright” and urged citizens to be patient and allow the reforms to deliver positive outcomes.

They argued that the current policies are designed to reshape the economy for long-term recovery, stability, and sustainable development.