Category: News

The Nigerian Senate has taken a decisive step to address growing concerns over DSTV’s billing system in the country. During a plenary session on Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted a significant disparity in how the service operates in Nigeria versus South Africa. He pointed out that subscribers in Nigeria lose their subscription days even when they are not using the service, which he described as unfair.

Akpabio noted that in South Africa, if a customer travels for an extended period, their subscription remains intact until they return and reactivate it. However, in Nigeria, the same benefit does not apply. Subscribers find their paid days consumed regardless of whether they are using the service or not. This practice, he argued, places an undue burden on Nigerian families who often travel for holidays and return to find their subscriptions exhausted.

Drawing a parallel to electricity billing, Akpabio expressed frustration that consumers are charged for power they do not utilize. He mentioned communities where transformers have been non-functional for months, yet residents continue to receive monthly bills. This comparison underscores a broader issue of consumers being made to pay for services they are not receiving.

In response to these concerns, Akpabio directed the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Communications to summon DSTV for an explanation. He made it clear that Nigerians should not be compelled to pay for services that are not being rendered. The move aims to ensure that DSTV aligns its billing practices with those in its home country, where customers are treated more fairly.

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.

Senator David Mark, the national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), convened a pivotal meeting with former federal lawmakers from the party following a series of defections that have shaken the National Assembly.

Two days ago, 17 members of the House of Representatives formally announced their departure from the ADC, crossing over to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu read their resignation letters during Wednesday’s plenary session.

The group of defectors represents constituencies spanning several states, including Kano, Anambra, Lagos, Edo, and Rivers. Additionally, Representative Leke Abejide from Kogi State left the ADC but chose to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC) instead of the NDC.

Multiple lawmakers cited internal leadership disputes and ongoing legal battles within the ADC as their primary reasons for leaving the party. The meeting, held at the ADC’s national secretariat in Abuja, was confirmed by Kola Ologbondiyan, the technical adviser on strategic communication to Mark, who shared a brief update on X (formerly Twitter).

“Representatives of former ADC federal legislators are currently in a high-level discussion with our national chairman, Senator David Mark, at the party’s headquarters this Wednesday,” Ologbondiyan posted. He did not elaborate on the agenda of the talks.

As of press time, the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, has not issued any official statement regarding the outcome of the meeting or the ongoing defection crisis.

The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has publicly expressed regret for supporting Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. In a strongly worded statement, the group condemned Wike’s recent media appearances, accusing him of making reckless and offensive comments that damage the party’s image.

Ini Ememobong, the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, signed the statement released on Wednesday. It characterized Wike’s remarks as a display of political irresponsibility and an unwarranted attack on respected figures. The group further alleged that his media outing, which they claimed was funded by taxpayers, lacked dignity and substance, describing it as a performance full of noise that signifies nothing.

Rather than addressing Wike’s claims directly, the faction apologized to Nigerians for previously backing his rise to power as a governor and now minister. ‘We are sorry for providing a platform to someone whose behavior and statements have become a national disgrace,’ the statement read. It urged those allegedly defamed by Wike to take legal action, emphasizing that no one is above the law.

Regarding internal party matters, the group dismissed the notion of a ‘National Leader’ position within the PDP, stating it is not recognized by the party’s constitution. They confirmed that party activities such as the sale of nomination forms and preparations for primaries and the national convention will proceed as scheduled.

The faction suggested that Wike’s outbursts may stem from his frustration over losing influence in the party, particularly regarding the emergence of the PDP’s presidential candidate. On legal issues mentioned by the minister, the group said they are awaiting certified copies of relevant court judgments and challenged Wike and his allies to publicly clarify the matters.

The Enugu State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thrown its weight behind Kabiru Turaki following his reinstatement as National Chairman, declaring that the Supreme Court verdict has resolved the internal strife plaguing the party. Chairman of the Enugu PDP, Barr Steve Oruruo, made this known upon his return from Abuja, lauding the court decision as a watershed moment for the party’s unity.

Speaking with reporters, Oruruo expressed steadfast confidence in Turaki’s ability to steer the PDP through turbulent times and restore its credibility in Nigeria’s political arena. He stated, ‘I have absolute faith in Kabiru Turaki’s skill and dedication to lead the party out of crisis, especially now that our nation requires a trusted political platform with a proven track record.’

Oruruo also praised the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), chaired by former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, for its resolute and principled stance during the leadership dispute. He remarked that the BoT exhibited remarkable unity and honesty in managing the situation. ‘The Board of Trustees proved to be both cohesive and incorruptible, resisting all forms of pressure and bribery,’ he asserted.

Commenting on the Supreme Court’s verdict, Oruruo emphasized its far-reaching consequences. He noted, ‘While the court nullified the Ibadan convention in a split ruling, it unanimously upheld the suspension of Senator Samuel Anyanwu and others. This effectively invalidates every action taken by those suspended individuals on behalf of the PDP.’ He dismissed the rival faction’s activities as illegitimate, calling the inauguration of Anyanwu’s committee a ‘sham’ and the Abuja convention a ‘farce.’

With the leadership question settled, Oruruo announced that the party would now resume its political activities across the country. ‘The BoT’s bold adherence to the Supreme Court ruling means our party can now begin selling interest and nomination forms through the authentic leadership structure, from the national down to local levels,’ he explained.

He also called for a political transformation in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for governance that truly serves the people. ‘We must reinvent Nigeria’s leadership model to reflect the hopes and demands of the electorate. Our goal is to recapture the art of governance and align it with the will of the majority,’ Oruruo concluded.

In preparation for the 2027 general elections, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has commenced the screening of Prince Adewole Adebayo and several other presidential aspirants. The exercise, which took place at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, marks a critical step toward selecting a candidate to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

National Chairman Professor Sadiq Gombe announced that the party has established over four committees to ensure a smooth convention process. These include the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee, and multiple sub-committees, each tasked with specific responsibilities to guarantee a transparent and credible process.

Gombe stated that the screening covers all aspirants vying for various positions, including the presidency, governorship seats across Nigeria’s 36 states, National Assembly seats, and State Houses of Assembly. He expressed confidence in the committee members’ competence and integrity, urging them to act with diligence, fairness, and transparency.

Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima, who chairs the Screening Committee, emphasized the need for strict adherence to party rules. He reminded members to carry out their duties with integrity, regardless of personal familiarity with the aspirants.