Category: News

Ayodele Arise, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress and a contender for the Ekiti North Senatorial District ticket, has strongly criticized the party’s primary election, calling it a farce. He is urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the chaos that has followed the exercise.

Speaking over the weekend, Arise pointed to state governors as a significant obstacle hindering a transparent primary process within the APC. He stressed that the committee tasked with overseeing the election declared incumbent Senator Cyril Fasuyi the winner, but Arise and other aspirants, including Dipo Bamisaye and Dare Owolabi, have rejected this result, alleging widespread fraud and manipulation.

Arise, who previously represented the district from 2007 to 2011, maintained that the primary lacked integrity and accused the party of merely paying lip service to the resulting crisis. He emphasized the gap between having a constitution or guidelines and actually adhering to them in practice.

“When we speak about internal democracy, it remains a huge challenge,” Arise stated. “It is one matter to have a constitution; it is another to see people deliberately violate it or the election guidelines. That was clearly shown during my attempt to return through this primary. I knew what was coming, so I participated to make a point.”

He added, “It would be a disgrace if some of us who have passed through this country fail to speak out against these irregularities and inform people that if we intend to practice democracy, we must do so properly. If not, that is a different matter altogether.”

Arise expressed hope that party leadership, including the chairman and President Tinubu, are examining the issues and that those who legitimately won their races will eventually receive their mandates. He praised the President for being proactive in addressing such challenges and making corrections before it is too late.

“The issue of governors remains a major barrier when it comes to Senate elections,” Arise noted. “Even if you are not running against them, if you are not their preferred candidate, your chances become extremely difficult.”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) achieved a clean sweep in the Adamawa State local government elections, winning chairmanship positions in all 20 Local Government Areas where results have been announced so far. The only outstanding contest is in Numan LGA, where voting was rescheduled for today after being postponed from the original date of Saturday, June 13.

This landslide victory comes as a surprise to many, given that the state government is currently under the control of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s defection from the PDP to the APC on February 27. However, observers note that the election arrangements were largely finalized before the governor’s party switch.

While most of the governor’s loyalists followed him to the APC, the incumbent council chairmen, who had already received party endorsements to seek re-election under the PDP banner, remained with their original party. Other political parties contested the election but failed to make any significant impact.

Chief Maurice Vunobolki, the PDP governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections, who campaigned vigorously ahead of the council polls, congratulated the newly elected chairmen. He described the outcome as a clear indication that the PDP remains the preferred choice among the electorate.

The election was conducted by the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC), which has now shifted its focus to the Numan LGA poll. Among the notable winners is Jibril Ibrahim Jimeta, who was elected chairman of Yola North LGA.

The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has alleged that the majority of primary elections recently conducted by political parties were characterized by fraud. He made this assertion during an appearance on Arise Television, noting that the outcomes have exacerbated internal disputes and undermined the authority of party leadership.

Amadi emphasized that political parties currently lack the necessary strength to enforce discipline among aspirants and their members. He stated, “Most party primaries were fraudulent. Even some House of Representatives aspirants who were favored by zoning arrangements failed to make the list, highlighting the excessive influence of governors.”

He further pointed to the chaos within party structures, where new entrants displace long-standing members. As an example, he cited the situation in Delta State, where former governor Ifeanyi Okowa managed to unseat Ned Nwoko. “It’s not necessarily that Nwoko underperformed, but structural shifts disrupted the status quo,” Amadi explained.

In a startling declaration, Sabo Nakudu, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) flagbearer for Jigawa State, has announced his intention to leave Nigeria should the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerge victorious in the 2027 general elections, provided the party fails to enhance citizens’ living standards.

Nakudu issued this pledge during a meeting with ADC youth members in Jigawa. He lamented the escalating hardship nationwide and cautioned that young people would continue to suffer if pressing issues remain unaddressed.

The candidate criticized successive administrations for their inability to deliver fundamental necessities, leaving many Nigerians frustrated and uncertain about what lies ahead. He emphasized that access to clean water, electricity, education, and security should no longer be mere campaign slogans decades after independence.

“It is disheartening that many communities still lack potable water and stable power. Governments should be judged by how their policies affect ordinary people’s daily lives,” Nakudu stated.

He further declared, “I will depart Nigeria if the APC wins the 2027 polls. The younger generation will bear the heaviest burden if unemployment, insecurity, and poor infrastructure persist.”

Nakudu urged youths not to shy away from politics but to participate actively in democracy. “Only leaders dedicated to development and accountability deserve public trust,” he concluded.

In a major political development, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally declared Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, as its vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections. This decision positions Amaechi as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar, setting the stage for a high-profile presidential contest.

Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, issued a statement confirming the selection. According to the statement, the party’s national leadership conducted extensive consultations with coalition allies, party stakeholders, women and youth groups, and representatives from all geopolitical zones before arriving at this choice. The statement also highlighted Amaechi’s strong performance in the ADC presidential primaries, where he finished as runner-up, earning broad support from party members nationwide.

The Atiku-Amaechi partnership is described as more than a mere political alliance; it is depicted as a merger of two seasoned statesmen whose combined experience, national influence, and leadership skills can address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. The ticket is intended to usher in an era of prosperity, security, and inclusive development.

Amaechi’s extensive public service record was underscored in the statement. He served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, marking one of the longest tenures in that role during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Later, as Governor of Rivers State for two terms, he drove significant advancements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and public sector reforms. At the federal level, as Minister of Transportation, he spearheaded ambitious rail and transportation modernization projects.

The ADC statement emphasized that few politicians today can match Amaechi’s balanced experience across both legislative and executive branches. This depth, it argued, would be crucial from day one of an ADC administration. Strategically, Amaechi’s influence in the South-South and broader Southern Nigeria, along with his reputation as a reform-minded administrator and coalition builder, makes him an ideal complement to Atiku Abubakar.

Together, the statement asserts, Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi represent a truly national ticket that bridges regions, generations, and political traditions. Their collective expertise in governance, economic management, public administration, and nation-building offers a credible alternative capable of restoring public trust and accelerating development. The party called on all members, partners, civil society, youth, women, and Nigerians of goodwill to join this historic mission to renew the nation and secure a better future.

A delegation from Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) visited the family of late Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.) and the Katsina State Government on Sunday to offer condolences. The visit was confirmed in a Monday statement by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer for Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

Major General IM Abdullahi, Chief of Administration for the Army, led the delegation. He extended sympathies from Chief of Defence Staff General OO Oluyede and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN). During the family visit in Katsina, Abdullahi praised the late officer as a devoted and patriotic soldier who served the nation with excellence for over three decades.

Abdullahi highlighted Abubakar’s significant contributions to the Nigerian Army and the country’s security framework. He assured the family that security agencies will work to ensure those responsible for the general’s death face justice. As a mark of honor, he presented the national flag to the family in recognition of Abubakar’s service and sacrifice.

Alhaji Dikko Mu’azu Ruma, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed gratitude to the CDS and the armed forces for their support during this mourning period.

The delegation also visited the Katsina State Government House, where Deputy Governor Faruk Lawal Jobe received them on behalf of Governor Dikko Radda. Abdullahi reiterated the military leadership’s condolences, calling the late general a distinguished son of Katsina State whose national service will be remembered.

Deputy Governor Jobe described Abubakar’s death as a painful loss for both the state and Nigeria, noting that his dedication to national service will inspire future generations. He urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to combat insecurity and pledged the state’s continued support for military operations aimed at restoring peace in the North-West.

In response, Abdullahi commended the Katsina government for its support to security agencies, emphasizing that cooperation between the military and state government is vital for lasting peace in the region. Special prayers were offered for the repose of the late officer’s soul at both the family residence and the Government House.

Other members of the delegation included Major General WB Idris (Theatre Commander, Operation FANSAN YAMMA), Major General BP Koughna (GOC 8 Division), Rear Admiral AM Haruna, Air Vice Marshal AY Abdullahi, Major General JS Bindawa (retd.), Brigadier General SK Usman (retd.), and Air Vice Marshal IS Kaita (retd.).

In a move aimed at bolstering security measures, the Rivers State Police Command has announced a new enforcement operation targeting automobiles that display unauthorized, obscured, or missing registration plates. The initiative, set to begin on June 15, 2026, is a direct response to concerns that improperly affixed plates facilitate criminal activities by allowing perpetrators to hide their identities.

ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Command’s spokesperson, revealed in a statement released Monday that the directive originates from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu. She emphasized that the primary goal of the operation is to curtail criminal behavior and enhance public safety across the state.

The exercise will be spearheaded by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, who has directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to enforce the order strictly within their jurisdictions. Vehicles found in violation will be impounded, and offenders may face legal prosecution.

Motorists are strongly advised to ensure their number plates are correctly attached, fully visible, and free from any coverings or alterations to avoid arrest, vehicle seizure, or legal consequences. The police have stressed that the operation must be conducted professionally, without harassment or extortion.

CP Adepoju issued a stern warning to officers, stating that any form of misconduct, intimidation, or extortion will result in severe disciplinary action. The Command reaffirmed its dedication to protecting lives and property through proactive security measures.

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has made his way to the Federal High Court in Kaduna for the ongoing hearing in his corruption case. He was accompanied by officials from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), as well as operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.

The charges against El-Rufai include abuse of office, fraud, and financial mismanagement during his time as governor. Prosecutors allege that funds were misappropriated for projects that were either poorly executed or not carried out at all.

El-Rufai has pleaded not guilty to all counts and is maintaining his innocence. During Monday’s court session, both the prosecution and defense are expected to present their motions and arguments as the trial moves forward.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that the South-East geopolitical zone will adopt President Bola Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. He made this declaration while inspecting ongoing federal road projects in Ebonyi State over the weekend.

In a press statement released on Sunday by his media aide, Francis Nwaze, Umahi expressed the region’s gratitude for the infrastructure developments initiated by the Tinubu administration. He noted that the people of the South-East have observed these projects and are eager to show their support publicly.

“The South-East is deeply appreciative of what Mr. President has accomplished. By Monday, under the leadership of Ebonyi State’s governor, we will formalize this appreciation by adopting him as our sole candidate,” Umahi stated.

The minister highlighted several federal projects in the region as proof of the government’s dedication to inclusivity and progress. He also revealed that the 2026 budget includes allocations to link a major road corridor to Ebonyi’s capital.

Addressing contractors, Umahi assured them that outstanding payments would be settled and urged them to continue work without interruption. “All contractors who are owed will receive payment. Work should not halt because we aim to commission this project by December,” he said.

Umahi maintained that the South-East populace has recognized the delivery of projects and is ready to openly rally behind President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.

The British government has announced the appointment of Peter Vowles as the next High Commissioner to Nigeria, according to a statement released by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on Monday. Vowles will take over from Richard Montgomery, who has been serving in the role.

Vowles brings extensive diplomatic experience to the position, having previously served as the UK ambassador to Zimbabwe. He has also held various senior roles within the FCDO, equipping him with the skills needed to foster strong bilateral ties.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time as the United Kingdom and Nigeria continue to enhance collaboration in areas such as trade, security, education, climate action, and economic development. As High Commissioner, Vowles will represent the British government and King Charles III in Nigeria, overseeing diplomatic relations, trade and investment partnerships, consular services, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.