Category: News

In a harrowing incident on Thursday, Innocent Omudu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Otukpo/Ohimini Federal Constituency in Benue State, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt when heavily armed assailants targeted his motorcade. The attack unfolded as Omudu and his team were journeying back to Otukpo following the party’s primary election, where he was unanimously chosen as the consensus candidate and ADC flag bearer for the 2027 general elections.

According to reports, the gunmen unleashed a barrage of gunfire on the convoy along the Onyagede-Ugboju road, resulting in damage to several vehicles and injuries to multiple individuals. Despite the intense shooting, Omudu confirmed that no fatalities occurred among his team, though some members sustained varying degrees of injuries. He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost, describing the ordeal as a terrifying experience from which divine intervention ensured their survival.

Omudu commended the bravery of police officers from the Idekpa Division in Ohimini, who stood their ground and successfully repelled the attackers. He also extended appreciation to local vigilantes who collaborated with security forces to thwart what could have escalated into a deadly assault. Additionally, he thanked the ADC leadership and members in the constituency for their confidence in him following his emergence as the party’s candidate.

Earlier, the party’s leadership in the constituency had unanimously adopted Omudu after his sole challenger withdrew from the race, paving the way for his candidacy.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ebonyi State has officially selected Mr. Oriji Tobias Nnabuike as its governorship flag bearer for the 2027 general elections. Mr. Bassie Umoke, the Coordinator of Electoral Matters and State Returning Officer, made the announcement after the primary election held at the party’s state office on Old Enugu Road in Abakaliki, the state capital.

According to Mr. Umoke, Nnabuike garnered 6,400 votes in the contest, which took place across all 171 wards in Ebonyi. A total of 6,730 party members were accredited for the exercise, and 6,400 delegates ultimately cast their ballots. The voting process was carried out at the ward level, following guidelines from the party’s national leadership.

The returning officer explained that the results were first compiled at ward-level collation centers before being transferred to constituency centers, then to local government centers, and finally to the state collation center for the official declaration. He noted that this thorough process accounted for the time required to finalize the outcome.

To enhance transparency and credibility, the ADC adopted an electronic membership register for the primaries. Mr. Umoke emphasized that this system eliminated common irregularities seen in conventional party primaries and made all figures verifiable. “We aim to change the narrative and make Nigeria workable. Every registered member automatically becomes a delegate for congresses and primaries, and what you see here is fully verifiable,” he stated.

The Ebonyi State Chairman of ADC, Dr. Jennifer Adibe, praised the peaceful and transparent nature of the primary elections. She confirmed that the party has also produced candidates for the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate seats ahead of the 2027 polls. For positions with multiple aspirants, direct primaries were conducted, while others were settled through consensus.

Dr. Adibe dismissed any concerns about insecurity during the exercise, noting that security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), monitored the proceedings across the state. She expressed optimism that the ADC would emerge as a formidable force capable of challenging dominant parties in Ebonyi in the upcoming elections.

The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Primary Election Committee, Dr. Pascale Okafor, commended party members for maintaining order throughout the primaries. He described the exercise as peaceful and in strict compliance with the Electoral Act. Similarly, the Deputy National Auditor of ADC and Secretary of the Electoral Committee in Ebonyi, Princess Nneka Nnebu, applauded the turnout and noted that no major challenges were recorded.

Senator John James Udoedehe, a contender for the 2027 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared that the widespread poverty, joblessness, and disparity in the state inspired his political ambition. Speaking at a press conference in Uyo on Thursday, he lamented that despite the massive funds allocated to the current administration, these issues continue to cripple the state.

Udoedehe emphasized that he is both mentally and physically ready to uplift the populace, not only by generating wealth and employment but also by narrowing the widening gap between the rich and the poor—a problem he says is glaring in Akwa Ibom. He stated, “My motivation comes from witnessing the severe poverty, inequality, and unemployment here; I knew action was needed. Any administration that fails to tackle these three challenges hasn’t truly begun. The hardship is so intense that you see a 35-year-old man with grey hair because of stress.”

He questioned the impact of recent budgets, arguing that Governor Umo Eno has received more revenue in three years than former governors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel combined over 16 years, yet poverty still stalks the streets of Akwa Ibom. Regarding his party’s electoral prospects, Udoedehe, a former APC national secretary, noted that he originally brought the APC to the state, which later became the ruling party. He expressed confidence that through thorough grassroots mobilization and sensitization, the ADC will triumph.

Addressing critics who label him a perennial governorship aspirant, Udoedehe clarified that he has only contested twice. He drew inspiration from governors Alex Otti of Abia and Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, who faced multiple defeats before eventually winning. He also refuted allegations that he intends to collect government money and withdraw midway, leaving supporters stranded. He recalled being unjustly imprisoned due to his ambition, asserting that such a betrayal would be irrational. “I’m not running for personal gain; I’m satisfied with what I have. These are mere blackmail and propaganda. I ask Akwa Ibomites to abandon collective hatred. I haven’t stolen the people’s resources. I’ve endured hardships, including imprisonment under emergency laws, because I fight for my people. Those spreading such lies are sycophants endorsing Senator Akpabio even from outside his district. Regardless of sentiments, I urge voters to give me a chance as governor. Once properly informed, I believe they will choose me in 2027,” he concluded.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State has officially launched its governorship primary elections across the state’s 319 wards. According to reports from DAILY POST, the voting process, which commenced on Friday, employs the Option A4 system, a method where voters queue behind their preferred candidate’s poster.

Supervising the exercise is the party’s National Election Committee (NEC), which is ensuring that procedures are followed. Prior to the primaries, the seven aspirants held a meeting that led to two candidates stepping down to support Gabriel Pidomson, a former lawmaker and ex-Secretary to the Rivers State Government. Among those who withdrew is Henry Ugboma.

The remaining contenders vying for the ADC ticket are Sokonte Davies, Farah Dagogo, Leloonu Nwibubasa, and Allen Hart. The primaries mark a significant step for the party as it prepares for the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.

Lere Olayinka, the media aide to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as Verydarkman (VDM), over his claims linking Rivers State APC governorship candidate Kingsley Chinda to alleged land grabbing in Abuja.

In a Facebook post, Olayinka dismissed VDM as a “very dull man,” accusing him of spreading misinformation for financial gain. He alleged that VDM had earlier posted a video in December 2024 accusing Wike of revoking an estate in Life Camp and allocating it to his kinsmen, including Chinda. Olayinka claimed that VDM went silent when evidence was presented showing the land was never allocated to the supposed claimant, but instead moved on to other topics without apologizing.

VDM had reacted to Chinda’s emergence as APC candidate for the 2027 Rivers governorship election by sharing his old footage, saying “This same Chinda? Rivers State is finished.” However, Olayinka maintained that VDM’s allegations were baseless and that his failure to retract reveals his lack of integrity.

In a significant political development, Kingsley Odionyemma has been chosen as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) flagbearer for the Ngor Okpala State Constituency in the upcoming 2027 Imo House of Assembly elections. The announcement came during a party event where Odionyemma formally accepted the nomination.

During his acceptance remarks, Odionyemma expressed deep gratitude to party leaders, local government and ward executives, as well as the general membership of the ADC for reposing their confidence in him. He acknowledged the collective effort that led to his emergence and pledged to work tirelessly to secure victory for the party in the February 2027 general elections.

The ADC candidate emphasized that success at the polls requires a united front. He called on all party members to rally together, stressing that individual effort alone would not be enough to win the election. Odionyemma outlined a vision centered on quality representation and leadership that prioritizes peace and development over partisan interests, money, or political alliances.

“We intend to demonstrate to the people of Ngor Okpala that our candidacy is not about party loyalty, power, financial influence, or alignment with certain leaders. Rather, it is about offering genuine representation and direction that will foster peace and progress in our constituency,” Odionyemma stated.

With the party primaries concluded, the ADC is now focusing on building momentum for the general election campaign, with Odionyemma leading the charge in Ngor Okpala.

Chisom Godswill Anyim, the APC candidate for Ivo State Constituency, has commended Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State for overseeing a credible and harmonious primary election within the party. Anyim, who is the son of former Senate President Pius Anyim, highlighted that the primaries were among the most peaceful and transparent electoral processes seen in the state recently.

Emerging as the consensus candidate for the 2027 Ebonyi State House of Assembly race, Anyim noted that the smooth conduct of the primaries underscored Governor Nwifuru’s dedication to internal democracy, party unity, and inclusive leadership. In his remarks after securing the ticket, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Nwifuru, party stakeholders, and the people of Ivo Local Government Area for their trust.

Anyim stated, “I sincerely thank President Tinubu for his purposeful leadership and steadfast commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria. I am also deeply grateful to Governor Nwifuru for ensuring a level playing field and peaceful primaries across Ebonyi State.” He described his emergence as a call to greater service, humility, and dedication to the welfare of Ivo Constituency residents.

The candidate praised party leaders, women, youths, and stakeholders in Ivo LGA for their support, unity, and maturity during the primary process. “I am thankful to the good people of Ivo Constituency for deeming me worthy to represent them. This mandate belongs to every youth, every woman, and every family that believes in a brighter future for our constituency,” he said.

Anyim pledged to run an issue-based campaign ahead of the 2027 general election, assuring constituents that his focus would be on people-oriented legislation and grassroots development if elected. His legislative priorities include youth empowerment, quality education, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. “I will go to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly to be the true voice of the people. I will sponsor bills and motions that positively impact our communities and bring development projects to every part of Ivo Constituency,” he vowed.

He also committed to maintaining close ties with constituents, stressing that responsive and accountable leadership is key to effective representation. “Leadership is about service, accessibility, and listening to the people’s needs. My office will always be open to the aspirations and concerns of our constituents,” he added. Anyim reaffirmed his support for Governor Nwifuru’s developmental initiatives in Ebonyi State while aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda at the national level.

The Chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Ajah, along with party faithful and stakeholders, expressed confidence in Anyim’s ability to deliver quality representation. They described him as energetic, visionary, and ready for the task, noting that his emergence boosts APC’s chances in the upcoming election.

The member representing Obingwa West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu, has emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election for Abia South.

Announcing the results in Umuahia on Thursday, the Chairman of the 2026 Senatorial Primary Election Committee, who also handed the certificate of return to Erondu, revealed that the lawmaker secured 15,982 votes. His closest rival, Dr. Blessing Nwagba, garnered 4,556 votes, while Prince Paul Ikonne and Nyerere Anyim obtained 4,322 and 4,022 votes respectively.

In his acceptance speech, Erondu thanked party members across the constituency and promised to deliver exemplary representation in the National Assembly. He reaffirmed his dedication to continuing empowerment initiatives and providing superior legislative service in the Senate.

Speaking at his residence in Obingwa on Friday, Erondu expressed gratitude to his supporters and praised the Senatorial Primary Election Committee, led by Erasmus Cishak, for conducting a transparent and credible exercise. He commended the party leadership for ensuring a free and fair selection process.

“The committee did an excellent job in guaranteeing that the process was not only free and fair but also transparent, thanks to the use of option A4 for the primaries. I extend my appreciation to all members of the national and local organizing committees, as well as my opponents, who ensured a peaceful contest,” Erondu stated.

He added, “I am prepared to collaborate with all my opponents to provide quality representation to the people of Abia South Senatorial District and to secure victory for our party, the APC. In my view, there are no losers or winners in a contest among brothers. I look forward to visiting my gallant opponents soon.”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), under the leadership of its factional National Chairman Nafiu Bala Gombe, has concluded the screening process for aspirants vying for various positions in the party’s upcoming primary elections nationwide.

According to the party, a total of 1,657 candidates were approved to contest in the primaries, while 212 were barred due to their inability to satisfy the necessary criteria.

The ADC emphasized that the screening was carried out with transparency and orderliness across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Screening committees were set up in every state, adhering to the party’s constitution and electoral rules.

Out of 1,869 aspirants who underwent the exercise, only those meeting the specified requirements were allowed to move forward, the party explained.

“Among the 980 aspirants screened for State House of Assembly seats, 155 were disqualified and deemed unfit to proceed to the primary election; for the House of Representatives, 50 aspirants failed the screening, and seven Senate aspirants were also unsuccessful,” the ADC stated.

The party cited reasons for disqualification such as discrepancies in birth dates and graduation years, absence of valid membership cards, and non-compliance with electoral guidelines.

A serious internal crisis has rocked the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State after its primary election descended into chaos and bloodshed. The situation escalated rapidly, with protests and accusations of manipulation becoming widespread.

In Benue South, angry youths stormed the office of Samson Okwu, accusing him of colluding with Tiv political stakeholders to block the Idoma ethnic group from securing the party’s governorship ticket for the 2027 elections. The demonstrators, bearing placards and singing solidarity songs, warned against any attempt to sideline Idoma interests, asserting that Benue South deserves a fair shot at producing the ADC candidate.

Meanwhile, the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, has maintained a conspicuous silence amid the turmoil, further aggravating tensions and suspicions among ADC supporters in the state.

The crisis took a darker turn in Okpokwu Local Government Area, where the local ADC chairman was reportedly kidnapped by unidentified individuals. In response, heavily armed police officers stormed the party secretariat in Okpoga to restore order, as fear gripped both party members and residents.

Adding to the discord, Ejembi Adaje has demanded the outright cancellation of the party’s primary in Enone, citing widespread irregularities and alleging that the process did not reflect the will of genuine members.