Author: Gabby

A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) figure and former Chairman of Kano Municipal Local Government, Faiz Alfindiki, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s performance in northern Nigeria, dismissing criticism as politically motivated propaganda.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, Alfindiki asserted that more than half of the federal government’s major national projects—over 52 percent—are situated in the northern region, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to the area.

According to the APC chieftain, the government is currently executing road projects spanning more than 1,400 kilometers across the North, with a combined value exceeding N7.21 trillion. He described these initiatives as clear evidence that the region is receiving significant attention and investment.

Alfindiki urged the public to focus on tangible achievements rather than misleading narratives. “The era of propaganda and misinformation is over. Real development is driven by action, planning, and dedication—not empty noise,” he stated.

His remarks come as the 2027 general election approaches, with President Tinubu seeking a second term. Notable political figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have expressed interest in challenging Tinubu for the presidency.

The chieftain cautioned against allowing politically driven stories to overshadow the administration’s achievements in the North, emphasizing that measurable progress should be the basis for assessment.

Kenneth Okonkwo, a prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has asserted that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, left the ADC due to a reluctance to engage in competitive internal elections. In a recent interview on ARISE News, Okonkwo clarified that Obi’s departure was not rooted in ideological conflicts or internal party strife. Instead, he alleged that Obi has a consistent record of sidestepping open primary contests throughout his political journey. Okonkwo stated that Obi’s decision to quit the ADC stemmed from an aversion to free and fair primaries, emphasizing that Obi has historically preferred political maneuvering over electoral competition. He pointed out that Obi has yet to participate in a primary election and predicted that this pattern will persist throughout his political career.

In a move signaling unity ahead of the 2027 elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has decided to bypass its standard screening process for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) reached this decision during its 188th meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday.

According to a statement from the party’s spokesperson, Felix Morka, the NWC considers Tinubu as already qualified under the party’s constitution to participate in the upcoming primary elections. This exemption stems from the president’s prior screening before the 2022 primaries, which the NWC deems sufficient for the current electoral cycle.

Morka highlighted that Tinubu has garnered widespread backing from key party stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum, National Assembly leadership, and other party organs. This support was notably expressed during the APC National Summit on May 22, 2025, and other major party events.

The NWC argued that requiring the incumbent president to appear before a screening committee would be redundant and unnecessary. As the party’s leader and sitting president, his previous clearance, combined with overwhelming endorsements, renders a fresh screening superfluous.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has launched a verbal attack on former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over his repeated party defections, accusing him of lacking political commitment. Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike traced Obi’s political journey, criticizing his inability to strengthen any party he joined. According to Wike, Obi’s actions reveal a pattern of self-interest rather than principle.

Wike said Obi joined APGA but failed to build it, then moved to the PDP where he complained about domination before leaving for Labour. At Labour, Wike argued, Obi could not resolve internal crises and left again. Most recently, Obi defected to the NDC, which Wike described as evidence of inconsistency. The minister claimed Obi is only interested in where he can benefit, using the phrase ‘he moves where food is ready’ and referencing ‘Mama put’ to suggest Obi seeks easy opportunities.

Wike also pointed out contradictions in Obi’s stance regarding the Supreme Court ruling on the ADC leadership crisis. He noted that Obi initially praised the court for saving the country, but later an Obidient supporter claimed there was a trap. Wike questioned how one can praise the court and then allege a trap. The minister concluded that such behavior undermines leadership and party development.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has decided to hold its upcoming national convention in Bauchi State instead of Abuja, following issues with venue availability. The party made this announcement on Wednesday through its National Chairman, Prof. Sadiq Gombe, who spoke just before the start of aspirant screening at the party’s Abuja headquarters.

Gombe explained that the change is permitted under the party’s constitution, which allows conventions to occur in any part of the country. He thanked Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for providing a venue despite their political differences, noting that this gesture underscores cooperation across party lines.

The convention, scheduled for May 9, is a critical step as the SDP gears up for the next general elections. The party aims to strengthen its national footprint and put forward candidates for key positions, including the presidency, governorship, and legislative seats.

To ensure a transparent and credible process, the SDP has set up several committees, including screening, electoral, and convention committees, along with sub-committees for specific tasks. Gombe assured members that all aspirants will be vetted according to established rules, covering positions from the presidency down to state and legislative offices.

The screening of aspirants, already underway in Abuja, will determine their eligibility ahead of the convention where final candidates will be selected. Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima (retd.), head of the Screening Committee, stressed the importance of thoroughness and integrity, warning that only qualified individuals will be allowed to contest.