Author: Gabby

The former presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabi’u Kwankwaso, has made a significant political concession, according to public affairs analyst Mahmud Jega. Speaking on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program, Jega described Kwankwaso’s agreement to support the zoning of the presidential ticket to the South within his new party, the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), as a landmark decision.

Jega noted that for a politician with substantial backing in a key and volatile state like Kano, this move was particularly noteworthy. He remarked that Kwankwaso must be cautious about his base’s reaction, as the public often perceives him as an aggressive and tough figure. However, in the interview, Kwankwaso appeared calm and considerate, Jega observed.

The analyst highlighted that Kwankwaso’s decision likely involved extensive consultations, and indications suggest that most of his supporters are on board. This could pave the way for a potential Obi-Kwankwaso ticket in the upcoming elections. Jega also pondered whether Kwankwaso’s youthful and social media followers would follow his lead, emphasizing the importance of a leader’s ability to bring their supporters along.

The All Progressives Congress in Benue State has taken a decisive step by disqualifying more than two dozen aspirants from contesting in the upcoming primaries for the 2027 House of Assembly elections. This move, announced by the party’s State Assembly Screening Committee, stems from violations of established party rules and constitutional provisions.

According to the committee’s report, the disqualifications were necessitated by the aspirants’ failure to adhere to the party’s guidelines. The APC leadership has called on those affected to accept the screening outcome gracefully and urged all party members to maintain unity as the 2027 general elections approach.

The report, signed by Committee Chairman Dr. Auwalu Ishiye and Secretary Barr. Tijani Abdullahi, provided the full list of disqualified individuals. Among them are Shio Keghnen Ephraim (Katsina-Ala East), Smith Enyi (Oju II), Uhimbir T.T. (Makurdi South), Isaac Aondohemba Kyan, Dugha Mark (Gboko East), Adikpe Ojoi (Oju I), Victor Johnson (Okpokwu), Iyua Samuel (Makurdi South), Varvar Titus (Ukum), Ubii Abraham (Gboko West), Mannaseh Kwaghlu, Elias Odoba (Apa), Iorshase Barnabas (Gboko West), Nyitse James (Ukum), Willaum Terhide (Buruku), Adakole Sale (Agatu), Obor Onor (Oju II), Odeh Aaron (Oju II), Tamenor Emmanuel (Makurdi South), Kundan David (Buruku), Iko Benjamin (Buruku), Anyor Justice (Kwande West), Richard Saidu (Ukum), Andrew Tyonongo Mbagwa, Timothy Cherem Tiev, Akumbur Peter (Gboko West), Nyiongu Innocent (Makurdi North), Terkula David (Katsina-Ala West), and Sebastian Ugba (Gwer West).

The party’s call for calm and respect for the screening process underscores its commitment to internal democracy and discipline. As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, the APC Benue chapter aims to ensure that only candidates who fully comply with its standards proceed to the primaries.

Rabi’u Kwankwaso, a former presidential aspirant for the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), has hinted at the possibility of a collaborative effort between the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections. During an appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ on Monday, the seasoned politician discussed his exit from the ADC and the formation of an alliance with Peter Obi, the ex-presidential candidate of the Labour Party.

Kwankwaso remarked that the NDC and ADC might yet join forces before the election. He added that there are significant developments across the country that many older individuals fail to grasp. According to him, while older generations often dwell on religion and ethnicity, younger Nigerians are more focused on securing competent governance. He expressed support for this youthful perspective, stating that they are absolutely correct in their quest for strong leadership.

Lauretta Onochie, who previously served as a media aide to late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has demanded the unconditional release of Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). She argued that holding him under dubious circumstances fuels concerns that state mechanisms are being used to target political adversaries.

On social media platform X, Onochie emphasized that dissenting voices must be allowed to speak freely, not suppressed through incarceration. She stated: “In any democratic system, opposition viewpoints should be countered with arguments, not jail terms. Turning political involvement into a reason for persecution puts democracy itself on trial.”

She noted that El-Rufai has been detained for several months on allegations widely viewed by Nigerians as politically driven and fabricated. “What is even more alarming are claims that his release hinges on political concessions: either rejoin the APC or quit politics entirely. That is not justice. That is coercion and political intimidation disguised as legal procedure,” she added.

Onochie stressed that Nigeria cannot present itself as a democracy while punishing those who refuse to conform. She asserted that the rights to political affiliation, opposition, and participation are enshrined in every constitutional democracy. No citizen should have to barter their freedom for political submission, she insisted.

“If there is a legitimate case against him, let it be tried openly, fairly, and without delay before a competent court. However, continued detention under questionable circumstances only reinforces the belief that state power is being misused to silence opponents. This goes beyond Nasir El-Rufai. It touches the very foundation of Nigerian democracy—whether citizens can still disagree, compete for power, and speak without fear,” she said.

She concluded by calling for his immediate release, even if on bail, pending a just resolution of his case. “A democracy that incarcerates opposition voices today may find itself with no opposition tomorrow. A nation without opposition is a nation under dictatorship,” Onochie warned.

The African Democratic Congress has officially unveiled the candidacy of Osinachi Usuwa, who is set to vie for the Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency seat in Abia State. This announcement was made through a post on the party’s official social media platform.

According to the party, Usuwa’s entry into the race is driven by mounting demands for leadership that prioritizes the needs of the people and offers genuine grassroots engagement. The ADC emphasized that Usuwa’s ambition aligns with the growing call for representatives who are deeply connected to their communities.

In a statement, the party reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing visionary leaders who are committed to integrity, competence, and service. “As more credible voices emerge nationwide, the ADC remains a platform for those ready to lead with dedication and transparency,” the statement noted.

The announcement marks the formal commencement of Usuwa’s political journey for the constituency, signaling a new chapter in the region’s political landscape.