Category: News

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on the people of the South East to preserve harmony and steer their young ones away from violent confrontation with the Nigerian state. He delivered this appeal during the burial ceremony of Sir Albert Ikechukwu Nnamani, former Administrative Secretary of the now-defunct Oil Mineral Producing Area Development Commission, held in Ikem, Enugu State.

According to a statement released to journalists in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized that progress can only flourish in a peaceful environment and urged the Igbo community to provide proper guidance to the younger generation. He stated, “For Ndigbo, I implore you to keep the peace and be mindful of today’s youth. They lack political understanding and awareness about development. Development is only possible where peace reigns.”

He further warned that attempts to seize power or achieve independence through armed resistance against the federal government are doomed to fail. “State power will always overpower you,” he cautioned. Akpabio assured that the National Assembly is committed to passing laws that ensure fairness for the South East, including the creation of an additional state to bring the region in line with other zones. “We are ready as a parliament to make the right laws, to dot the i’s and cross the t’s so that Ndigbo can have at least one more state. This is our promise and we stand by it,” he declared.

He noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is determined to rectify historical injustices, citing appointments that reflect inclusivity for the Igbo people. However, he stressed that all demands should be pursued through negotiation. Akpabio expressed concern over the economic impact of the sit-at-home orders, particularly on markets like Onitsha. “The economy of Onitsha and Nigeria has been badly affected by the so-called sit-at-home. Ndigbo are known for enterprise. After the Biafra war, accounts were frozen; if you had two million pounds, you received only three. What can you do with three pounds?” He lamented that the South East and South South, where the war was fought, lacked reconstruction efforts, focusing only on reconciliation and rehabilitation.

In paying tribute to the late OMPADEC administrator, Akpabio highlighted his dignified service and the role he played in Niger Delta development. He remarked that in the past, broken pipelines symbolized broken promises, but such days are now behind us. Akpabio concluded with a prayer that justice would be done for Ndigbo in their lifetime.

A joint security mission in Kwara State has led to the successful release of a kidnapped civilian, though not without a cost. The operation, conducted by troops from the 244 Battalion in collaboration with local vigilantes and forest guards, took place in the dense Tunga Maje forest area of Kaiama Local Government.

According to a disclosure by security expert Zagazola Makama on X, the rescue effort was triggered by intelligence gathered on April 30 at approximately 10:20 a.m., indicating that a resident of Vera village had been taken captive.

The security team moved swiftly into the forest, tracking the kidnappers until they made contact. A short gunfight ensued, during which the abducted individual was freed unharmed. However, one vigilante member sustained a gunshot wound and was promptly rushed to receive medical care.

Items recovered at the scene included two motorcycles believed to have been used by the perpetrators. Security sources have confirmed that further operations are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects and prevent similar incidents.

The Nigerian Navy has carried out a major operation against criminal elements operating along the Calabar–Oron waterway in Cross River State. This action was aimed at curbing the rising incidents of abductions and other unlawful activities in the region.

According to a statement released by Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the Director of Information, the mission was executed by personnel from NNS Victory and Forward Operating Base, Ibaka. The operation focused on Dayspring Island following an increase in kidnapping cases and related offenses in the area.

Folorunsho revealed that the strike led to the demolition of a camp belonging to a notorious militant leader known as “Juju,” who had been evading capture for a long time. The operation was further reinforced by the creation of a forward security post at Idung 1 (Peacock Crossing), which provides troops with a strategic position to control the surrounding creeks and waterways.

The naval spokesperson added that troops working alongside soldiers from the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade forced suspected militants to abandon their hideouts. Security forces also took control of key water routes, limiting the criminals’ ability to move freely.

“During the search of the area, we uncovered and destroyed a militant hideout linked to a wanted suspect called ‘Juju’ in the Idung area,” Folorunsho said.

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former presidential candidate, has clarified that he remains a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) despite ongoing legal disputes within the party. In a statement issued late Saturday, he acknowledged that leaving the ADC remains an option but stressed that no final decision has been reached.

Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, disclosed that he has engaged in consultative discussions with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). He emphasized that he has not declared any intention to run for president or endorsed any candidate for the 2027 elections.

The statement addressed the challenges facing the ADC, including a recent Supreme Court judgment that recognized the David Mark-led National Working Committee while remitting the case to the High Court. Additionally, a Federal High Court ruling delegitimized the party’s recent convention, and the Attorney General of the Federation has moved to deregister the ADC.

Kwankwaso drew parallels to his exit from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), citing legal problems as the catalyst. He reiterated his democratic credentials, recalling his second-place finish in the 2014 APC presidential primary behind Muhammadu Buhari, and his support for Atiku Abubakar after losing the 2019 PDP ticket. He affirmed his commitment to national interest over personal ambition.

He also explained his absence from recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings as due to unavoidable personal commitments, for which he apologized. Kwankwaso promised to formally announce any definitive political direction through official channels at the appropriate time.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to participating in the 2027 general elections, dismissing rumors that it might not field a presidential candidate. In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party emphasized that it remains focused on its mission to rescue Nigeria from what it describes as the failures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and to prevent the country from sliding into a one-party state.

Abdullahi described recent suggestions that the ADC would not present candidates in the upcoming elections as entirely baseless and mischievous. He stressed that the party is fully compliant with all legal requirements, including the Constitution and the Electoral Act, and is actively building the necessary structures to contest and win elections at all levels. The party called on Nigerians to disregard what it termed scaremongering tactics aimed at creating confusion and dampening the growing momentum around the ADC.

The ADC insisted that it will present not just any candidates, but credible, competent, and nationally acceptable individuals capable of leading the country out of its current crisis. The party’s statement read in part: ‘We remain a law-abiding political party, fully compliant with the Constitution and the Electoral Act. There is no legal impediment to our participation in the 2027 elections, and any suggestion to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.’

The party reiterated its role as Nigeria’s primary opposition platform, with a clear focus on organizing, mobilizing, and preparing to win the 2027 general elections. It charged Nigerians to remain steadfast and not be swayed by unfounded assertions, noting that the ADC is determined to provide a viable alternative to the ruling party.

In a significant political shift, Senator Ishaku Abbo, who represented Adamawa North in the 9th National Assembly, has officially left the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His departure was announced on Sunday through a statement by the SIA MOVEMENT, citing the deep crisis plaguing the ADC at both national and state levels.

Abbo explained that conflicting court rulings on the party’s leadership have created a state of uncertainty for members. This instability, he noted, made it impossible to remain in the ADC. Consequently, he and his supporters have now joined the Labour Party to participate in the 2027 general elections.

The former senator expressed regret to those offended by his move but stressed that his decision stems from a need to fulfill the aspirations of many who look up to him. He described himself as a beacon of hope for a generation. He also stated that he has forgiven those who wronged him while he was building the ADC, though he will remember their actions.

Abbo revealed that he will soon announce his preferred presidential candidate, working closely with the Labour Party leadership.

In a significant development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has welcomed a host of prominent politicians from across the country during a grand reception in Abuja. The event, held on Saturday, saw key leaders from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) officially pledge their allegiance to the NDC.

The party’s National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, alongside National Chairman Senator Moses Cleopas and other members of the National Working Committee, received the new entrants. Dickson described the mass defection as a testament to the growing confidence in the NDC’s vision for a renewed Nigeria.

Among the notable figures who joined were Comrade Babatunde Alli, former Deputy National Chairman of the PRP; Professor Mohammed Sani Yahaya, the NNPP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Taraba State; and Honourable Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, a former House of Representatives member and ex-board member of the Code of Conduct Bureau. They were accompanied by thousands of their supporters and political allies.

A key highlight of the event was the formal presentation of membership cards to the new members, signifying their full integration into the party. Senator Dickson noted that their decision reflects a widespread belief in the NDC’s commitment to inclusive governance and national renewal.

Senator Moses Cleopas urged the new members to uphold the party’s core values and work collaboratively to strengthen internal unity and expand the party’s reach across the country.

Comrade Babatunde Alli explained that his exit from the PRP followed careful consideration of the party’s internal challenges. He stated, “Every political party in Nigeria needs inclusivity, youth participation, and fair processes. When these are lacking, it becomes difficult to remain. The emergence of the NDC has given me hope that politics can be done differently, with fairness and purpose.”

Professor Mohammed Sani Yahaya affirmed his commitment to building the NDC from the grassroots. He declared, “From the polling unit to the ward, local government, and state level, we are joining the NDC completely. We have laid the foundation; now we are completing the structure with the NDC. Insha’Allah, 2027 is our year, and we are fully dedicated to spreading the NDC’s message across Taraba State.”

Honourable Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma expressed deep concern over the state of the nation but voiced optimism in the NDC as a credible alternative. He remarked, “Nigeria is hurting and searching for direction. What was sold to us as ‘Renewed Hope’ has, for many, become renewed hopelessness. Our country is blessed but mismanaged. We must tackle corruption and restore trust in governance. I believe the NDC offers a platform for that renewal and for bringing back hope to Nigerians.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State has expressed unwavering confidence in securing a sweeping victory during the 2027 general elections, attributing its optimism to party cohesion, robust grassroots support, and a consensus-driven candidate selection process.

Speaking in Abakaliki shortly after several aspirants collected their expression of interest and nomination forms, state APC chairman Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha downplayed reports of internal strife, asserting that the party remains united and strategically focused on winning every elective position.

Emegha described recent tensions as stemming from the overzealousness of a few individuals, clarifying that such actions do not represent the official stance of the party’s leadership. “Overzealousness can sometimes cause individuals to overstep, but this does not affect our party’s unity. We are one big family, and every decision is made with the people’s best interest at heart,” he stated.

The chairman highlighted that the adoption of consensus candidates resulted from exhaustive consultations involving stakeholders across wards, local governments, and the state level, emphasizing the democratic and inclusive nature of the process. Under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s guidance, the leadership ensured that all interests were considered before arriving at a unified position aimed at bolstering internal harmony and electoral performance.

Emegha stressed that every APC candidate in Ebonyi would enjoy collective backing from the party, noting that electoral contests are a shared responsibility. “No candidate is alone; every ticket belongs to all party members. We will work together to achieve victory, as success in our constituencies is a testament to our strength and connection with the electorate,” he added.

He further expressed confidence that the APC’s track record of governance, coupled with its dedication to peace and development, would resonate with voters and provide the party with a competitive advantage in the upcoming polls.

Several aspirants who aligned with the consensus arrangement also reaffirmed their commitment to the decision, viewing it as a strategic move to minimize discord and foster unity. Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District and Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, noted that the consensus model complies with the Electoral Act and reflects the collective will of party members. He argued that widely accepted consensus candidates are a legitimate democratic option that saves time and resources while promoting cohesion.

Nwebonyi also highlighted his legislative and constituency achievements, including road construction, educational infrastructure, empowerment programs, and facilitation of federal appointments, assuring constituents of continued quality representation if re-elected. He urged party members, especially the youth, to embrace purposeful leadership and selfless service, emphasizing that public office should prioritize the collective good over personal gain.

Other aspirants, including Senator Anthony Ani seeking re-election for Ebonyi South Senatorial District, as well as House of Representatives members Chinedu Ogah (Ikwo/Ezza South) and Joseph Nwobashi (Ezza North/Ishielu), called on party loyalists to remain united and committed as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. They voiced strong confidence that the APC would emerge victorious at the polls.

Public analyst Mahdi Shehu has raised concerns that Nigeria’s opposition parties are unintentionally aiding the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. According to Shehu, the lack of cohesion and excessive personal ambition among opposition leaders are undermining their ability to present a credible challenge.

In a statement on his X account, Shehu pointed out that parties like the PDP, LP, ADC, NDC, and PRP are failing to forge a united front. He warned that when leaders prioritize personal gain over collective strategy, they risk losing both power and respect, leaving only regret.

Shehu criticized several factors eroding opposition strength, including perceived bias in the electoral system. He alleged that INEC appears partial and has become an extension of the APC. He also claimed that APC figures are working in unison to prevent strong opposition, and that the judiciary has not been impartial in political disputes.

He further argued that certain provisions of the Electoral Act are more restrictive than military decrees, disadvantaging opposition parties. Additionally, he noted that the desperation of opposition aspirants is worsening the situation. Their personal ambitions, he said, are blinding them to the larger dangers facing the nation. They are focused on themselves but fail to grasp the bigger picture.

Shehu emphasized that a united opposition could have formed a formidable force capable of matching the APC. However, the refusal of ambitious leaders to cooperate is fueling the APC’s success. He described reports of opposition members moving to other parties or returning to the APC as a final burial of their collective hopes.

He cautioned that 2027 could be a turning point. If opposition leaders fail to unite, they may lose their relevance in national politics entirely. Shehu stated that after losing the 2027 opportunity, there may no longer be a Nigeria for them to contest in, as smaller nations could emerge from the current instability.

Concluding his remarks, Shehu expressed hope in divine intervention, asserting that God can change the situation and that with faith, all is possible.

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has clarified that the potential defection of prominent opposition figures Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso remains purely speculative. Abdulmumin Ohiare Abdulsalam, the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, emphasized that recent reports suggesting an imminent move by the duo from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the NDC are based on probability rather than confirmed plans.

Abdulsalam issued a statement on Saturday addressing what he described as an exaggerated media narrative. He explained that his earlier comments to a journalist were misinterpreted, as they focused on the theoretical possibility of such defections—not a foregone conclusion. The party official stressed that the NDC has not finalized any agreements with the ADC leaders, and discussions about alliances remain exploratory.

According to Abdulsalam, the NDC maintains an open-door policy for politicians from all parties who share its vision for national renewal. However, he underscored that the party neither coerces nor actively engineers defections. Instead, it relies on its ideological foundation and the leadership of its National Leader to attract like-minded individuals.

The statement also referenced ongoing talks among opposition parties aimed at building a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. Despite these discussions, the NDC reiterated that no concrete timeline exists for Obi or Kwankwaso to join their ranks. The party’s position is that all political actors are free to choose their affiliations, and the NDC will continue to welcome those who align with its principles.

This clarification comes amid heightened speculation following reports that both politicians were preparing to leave the ADC. While rumors persist, the NDC’s official stance suggests that a defection is not imminent and remains subject to future political developments.