Author: Gabby

Emeka Ihedioha, the former governor of Imo State, has declared he will not follow Peter Obi to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) as the 2027 elections approach. Instead, he affirms his continued loyalty to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he has been a key figure.

In a formal statement issued on Thursday, Ihedioha expressed his support for Obi’s political decision but clarified his own path. He noted that while Obi, along with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, recently unveiled their new political movement under the NDC banner, Ihedioha sees no reason to abandon the ADC at this critical juncture.

“For the past year, we have worked tirelessly to build a coalition of patriotic Nigerians within the ADC, with the goal of delivering effective, accountable, and inclusive governance to the nation,” Ihedioha said. He emphasized that their efforts have been grounded in sacrifice, strategic alignment, and a clear vision for Nigeria’s future.

Ihedioha acknowledged that Obi made the choice to transition to the NDC on May 3, 2026, to advance his political ambitions. “While I would have preferred that he pursued this within the ADC, I respect his right as a leader to make decisions based on his convictions. I wish him well,” Ihedioha added.

Despite the divergence in political platforms, Ihedioha stressed that they share a common desire for a better Nigeria—one that serves all citizens and celebrates diversity. “This aspiration transcends party affiliations,” he stated.

After thorough consultation and reflection over 72 hours, Ihedioha confirmed his decision to stay with the ADC. “I take deliberate political actions, and at this moment, there is no reason for me to leave the ADC. We will continue working toward the dream of a new Nigeria, now on different platforms but with the same objective,” he concluded.

Hon. Natasha Osawaru-Idibia, the lawmaker representing Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, has officially switched allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). The politician, who is also the wife of famous musician 2Baba, made the announcement during a visit to the residence of NDC national chairman Senator Seriake Dickson, where she received her membership card.

In addition to the in-person registration, she shared her decision on Instagram, posting a photo from the meeting alongside notable figures like former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabi’u Kwankwaso. Prior to this move, Osawaru-Idibia was a PDP member and has been serving as the representative for Egor Constituency in the 8th Edo State House of Assembly.

Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central, has officially ended his long-standing affiliation with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after more than twenty years. His resignation marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Bauchi State.

In a letter submitted to the ward chairman of Ningi Local Government Area, Ningi explained that his decision followed in-depth discussions with allies, backers, and community leaders. He described this move as one of the toughest choices in his political life.

The lawmaker highlighted that the PDP enabled him to serve as a two-term House of Representatives member and a two-term senator. He once regarded the party as a formidable democratic force in Africa, rooted in unity and inclusive leadership.

However, Ningi voiced dismay over persistent internal conflicts, factional battles, and leadership disputes that have eroded the party’s strength and cohesion. He lamented that a once vibrant and united organization has deteriorated into a disjointed entity plagued by infighting.

Political observers note that Ningi’s departure signals a broader realignment in Bauchi, with expectations that he will soon join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition. This defection is seen as part of a growing trend of politicians seeking new platforms ahead of upcoming elections.

Ningi expressed gratitude to party officials and members for their support over the years and extended best wishes for the PDP’s future rebuilding efforts.

A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant for the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, has raised strong objections to what he sees as a manipulated effort to foist a consensus candidate on the party. He argues that this move threatens President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s electoral prospects and weakens the APC’s internal democracy.

Shettima cautioned that sidelining credible contenders through what he terms a “scripted consensus arrangement” could spark internal discord and hand opposition parties a significant advantage in Kaduna Central. In a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday, the aspirant asserted his strong standing in the race, backed by substantial grassroots support across the seven local government areas in the district.

The aspirant claimed that the alleged endorsement of former Senator Shehu Sani as a consensus pick is undemocratic and deliberately risks damaging the party’s unity and electoral might in the state. He emphasized that Kaduna Central holds strategic political importance and that imposing a candidate would be a gamble the party cannot afford.

“We categorically reject this so-called consensus arrangement. Kaduna Central will not be sacrificed at the altar of political manipulation and backroom deals,” Shettima declared. He warned that denying party members the chance to choose their candidate through direct primaries undermines inclusivity and fairness within the APC.

Shettima noted that forcing a candidate against the wishes of party faithful could deepen resentment among loyal members and create divisions that benefit opposition parties in the general elections. “There is growing concern that internal forces are trying to weaken the APC. Any move that alienates committed stakeholders could hurt President Tinubu’s standing in Kaduna State,” he added.

He called on the APC national leadership, Governor Uba Sani, and other stakeholders to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants vying for the Kaduna Central senatorial ticket. Specifically, he demanded direct primaries, insisting that party members should decide who represents the APC. Shettima vowed to challenge any imposition through “every legitimate political and legal means available,” while reaffirming his loyalty to the APC and support for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani’s administrations.

He stressed that only free, fair, and credible primaries can preserve party unity, internal democracy, and guarantee victory for the APC in Kaduna Central and beyond.

Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District, has formally declared his intention to contest for the governorship of Kwara State in the 2027 elections. This announcement comes amid growing speculation about the resurgence of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by former Senate President Bukola Saraki.

On Thursday, Mustapha submitted his Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms to the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling his official entry into the party’s primary race. He will compete against several other aspirants for the APC ticket in the upcoming governorship election.

In a statement shared on his verified social media platforms, the senator described the submission as a milestone in his political journey toward leading Kwara State. “This marks my official entry into the party’s screening process and represents a significant step in the journey toward building a more progressive and inclusive Kwara State,” he wrote.

Mustapha expressed confidence in his ability to secure the party’s nomination and eventually win the governorship seat. He also emphasized his commitment to engaging with party leaders, stakeholders, and the people of Kwara State throughout the process. “Together, we will continue to work towards the future our state truly deserves,” he added.

The move by Mustapha underscores the intensifying political activities in Kwara as the 2027 elections approach, with the APC aiming to retain power amid challenges from opposition parties.

A prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a contender for the Benue South senatorial position, David Olofu, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its neutrality and guarantee equitable conditions for every political party as the country approaches the 2023 general elections.

Olofu delivered this message shortly after acquiring his nomination papers on Thursday to vie for the Benue South senatorial seat under the ADC banner.

He emphasized that opposition groups should enjoy unrestricted operation across the nation, consistent with the constitutional guarantee of freedom of association.

“INEC needs to stay impartial. INEC should give opposition parties room to function,” he stated.

“A one-party system is not something we support. The constitution clearly protects freedom of association.

“We have decided to align with the ADC, and we deserve the right to function without hindrance in this country.”

The senatorial aspirant voiced strong confidence about his prospects in the upcoming 2023 polls, pointing out that his camp was the earliest to secure the nomination form for the contest.

“By God’s grace, on May 7, 2026, we obtained the form to run for the Benue South Senatorial District election.

“In reality, we are the first to get the form, and I promise our constituents that by 2023, we will also be the first announced as winners,” he declared.

Outlining his vision for the district, Olofu pledged to focus on inclusive governance and representation that serves the people’s interests if elected.

He detailed plans to create the “Benue South People’s Assembly” and the “Benue South People’s Council,” enabling residents to directly influence policy formulation and legislative agendas.

He asserted that representation must always mirror the desires and ambitions of the populace.

Regarding insecurity, the ADC candidate advocated for bolstering existing security structures alongside setting up a robust command and control center within the senatorial zone.

He highlighted that effectively addressing insecurity demands collaborative efforts from communities, local authorities, security agencies, and citizens through prompt intelligence sharing.

Olofu further underscored the necessity of leveraging technology to tackle security challenges, noting that contemporary security threats call for contemporary approaches.

“We need to adopt technology to combat insecurity,” he added.

Peter Adejoh, a governorship aspirant under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State, has raised concerns over the potential emergence of a one-party system in Nigeria. During an interview after securing his nomination form for the 2027 gubernatorial race, he emphasized that no nation benefits from a political landscape dominated by a single party.

He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its independence and impartiality. According to Adejoh, democracy cannot survive unless opposition parties operate without fear of suppression or harassment.

The aspirant also appealed to the judiciary to deliver unbiased rulings on electoral disputes. He described the movement to “rescue Benue” as already in motion, promising that his administration would prioritize openness, responsibility, and economic revitalization if elected.

Adejoh pledged to lead an administration that serves every ethnic group in the state equally. He stated, “My focus will be on Benue State as a whole, not just any particular ethnic community. Resources will be distributed fairly across all three senatorial districts.”

Additionally, he vowed to enhance local government autonomy, tackle security challenges, and develop a robust economy to boost internally generated revenue. He criticized the persistent salary delays at the local government level, assuring that workers would not face such issues under his watch.

Adejoh attributed widespread insecurity, poverty, and underdevelopment to the weakened state of local government councils. He pointed out that Benue’s vast agricultural and mineral wealth could drive economic transformation if properly utilized.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency has reached a significant decision ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party’s apex leadership has selected former Commissioner for Women and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, as the consensus candidate for the House of Representatives.

This choice was finalized during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting that took place on Wednesday at the residence of Chief Joju Fadairo, the chairman of the Ifo APC Apex Leadership. The gathering brought together key party figures and stakeholders from both Ifo and Ewekoro local government areas.

According to sources, the meeting was described by participants as a strategic move to foster party unity, enhance cohesion, and ensure fair representation within the constituency. Notable leaders present included former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Olakunle Oluomo; Folawewo Fatiu Salami, the member representing Ifo II State Constituency; and former House of Representatives members Dele Obadina, Adeyemi Adekunle, and Derin Adebiyi, among others.

Following her adoption, Adeleye expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun, whom she referred to as a father, leader, and mentor. She acknowledged his unwavering commitment to equity, party unity, and inclusive leadership, which she said were instrumental to the process.

The former state lawmaker also thanked the apex leaders, party stakeholders, and supporters across the constituency for their confidence and steadfast support over the years. She emphasized that her emergence reflects a collective aspiration for progress and inclusive representation, aligning with the ideals promoted by the party.

Adeleye clarified that the process was not about exclusion but about building consensus and strengthening the collective interest of the party and the constituents. She called on party faithful and residents to sustain the spirit of unity and cooperation as the party moves into the next phase of the electoral process. Pledging humility, inclusiveness, and people-oriented representation, she reiterated her commitment to serving the constituency with dedication.