Category: News

Jonathan Vatsa, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Niger State Commissioner, has raised alarms that Nigeria could be heading toward chaos before the 2027 general elections. He pointed to the judiciary’s questionable conduct and the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) attitude as potential catalysts for this crisis.

Speaking to journalists in Minna following a church service for his 64th birthday, Vatsa emphasized that the nation’s democracy could collapse if these institutions fail to operate without bias. He also predicted that internal conflicts within the APC would explode, overshadowing disputes in any opposition party.

According to Vatsa, the prolonged silence on primary election results—almost two months after the polls—proves that the APC is sitting on a powder keg. He warned, “Once those results emerge, the APC will face its biggest internal war yet.”

He dismissed opposition party crises as “manufactured,” insisting that the APC’s problems are homegrown and far more dangerous. Vatsa held INEC and the judiciary responsible for any political fallout, stating that their partiality could “plunge the country into anarchy and end democratic rule.”

The former publicity secretary accused the party of abandoning real elections during its primaries, claiming that roughly 80% of candidates in Niger State were selected through a consensus forced by the state government. He labeled this “the most significant political fraud since 1999” and argued that such impositions would eventually backfire.

He questioned why some politicians could pursue a sixth term while others seeking a second term were made to step aside, warning that these injustices could lead to anti-party activities. “The anger is simmering beneath the surface because people fear losing their livelihoods, but it’s there,” Vatsa said.

Recalling his role in creating the APC, Vatsa lamented that founding members have been pushed aside by “tenants” who took control after the party assumed power. “We revived a broken vehicle called APC in 2015, but now latecomers occupy the house. I helped build this party; I won’t surrender it to strangers,” he added.

Yiaga Africa, a prominent election monitoring group, has officially endorsed the results of the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The group’s independent tally, conducted through its Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology, confirmed that INEC’s announced outcomes matched votes counted at polling units across the state.

Speaking at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday, Yiaga Africa commended INEC for notable improvements in election logistics, including the timely deployment of materials and personnel, smooth accreditation and voting processes, and a generally peaceful environment throughout the election day. However, the group did not shy away from highlighting several critical concerns that marred the exercise.

Among the most pressing issues identified were widespread vote buying, weak management of sensitive electoral materials, poor public communication regarding late administrative and judicial decisions, and discrepancies in voter turnout figures. Yiaga Africa noted that while the official turnout announced by INEC stood at 38.7%, their independent projection estimated a range between 34.1% and 38.2%. This gap, they suggested, may stem from INEC using the 2022 voter register instead of the updated 2026 register.

According to Yiaga’s statistical projections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) was estimated to secure between 83.9% and 87.1% of the votes, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) between 8.5% and 11.7%, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) between 2.9% and 4.1%. All these figures fell within INEC’s announced results, reinforcing the accuracy of the election outcome.

Despite this validation, Yiaga Africa called on INEC to urgently clarify the turnout discrepancy and tighten quality control for sensitive materials ahead of future elections, particularly the 2027 general elections. The organization also urged security agencies to intensify efforts against vote buying and voter intimidation. Political parties were advised to better train their polling agents on electoral laws and guidelines, while the government was urged to regulate incumbency powers and the use of state resources to ensure a level playing field.

Concluding their statement, Yiaga Africa stressed that although election administration has seen improvements, the persistence of vote buying and management lapses poses a serious threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has leveled accusations against Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Vice-Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), alleging that he seized 69 nomination forms for multiple political offices in Kano. This, they claim, has thrown the party into disarray and confusion.

Addressing journalists at the NUJ Press Centre in Kano, the PRP State Chairman, Abdulkadir Musa Guza, revealed that he had traveled to Kaduna for a party retreat and had obtained forms for various aspirants from Kano who had paid for them. However, upon his return, he was informed that all the forms had been purchased by someone else.

Musa Guza explained that when he pressed for details, the party’s national secretary identified Kwankwaso as the buyer, adding that the party was in discussions with him about a possible defection. After days passed with no sign of Kwankwaso joining the PRP, suspicions grew that his actions might be part of a deliberate scheme to disrupt the party.

The chairman further stated that Kwankwaso cannot legitimately hold forms from another party while still being a member of his own, and described the situation as a mischievous mission. He expressed deep concern for the hundreds of aspirants who now face uncertainty, unsure if they can contest under the PRP banner.

Musa Guza warned that legal steps will be taken if Kwankwaso does not return the forms before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadline for submitting candidates’ names. He added that other political parties are experiencing similar troubles, indicating a broader issue.

The internal strife within the Kwara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is reaching new heights as supporters of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq prepare to visit the party’s national headquarters in Abuja this Monday. This action follows growing tensions over the alleged imposition of Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu as the APC governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.

Reports indicate that a delegation from the governor’s camp, led by state party chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi, will meet with national party leaders to present the governor’s stance on the crisis. The delegation also includes former PDP secretary Razaq Lawal and Abdullateef Alakawa, chairman of the Niger River Basin Development Authority.

According to sources, the team intends to engage with the national chairman and members of the National Working Committee (NWC). Additionally, they plan to consult with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to seek support for the governor’s position.

This development comes after ten gubernatorial aspirants petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rejecting the primary election that produced Salihu as the party’s candidate. Earlier, the elders’ caucus, led by Chief James Bamisaiye, had also opposed Salihu’s emergence, accusing the governor of imposing him.

Sources revealed that the delegation will travel from Ilorin via a chartered flight early Monday morning to maintain confidentiality. “We want to ensure that nobody knows who is travelling. So, we are leaving by 6 a.m. tomorrow, Monday, through a chartered flight,” a source said.

While the governor’s supporters maintain that the party is united and can resolve internal issues, political observers believe these events highlight deepening fractures within the Kwara APC.

The Action Peoples Party (APP) in Osun State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to bolster the security of its technological infrastructure ahead of the governorship election scheduled for August 15.

In a statement released on Sunday by Odesola Oluseye Titus, the APP chairman in Osun, the party warned against any attempts to manipulate electoral technology, stressing that the integrity of the election must be protected.

The APP demanded that INEC take immediate steps to secure all electronic systems used in the electoral process, including rigorous checks on the voter register, ensuring card readers function properly, and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.

“We call on INEC to act swiftly to safeguard the entire technological framework from fraudulent activities and tampering,” the statement read. “This involves strict verification of the voters’ roll, operational card readers, and robust data protection measures.”

The party insisted that every eligible voter must be allowed to exercise their franchise freely and fairly, without any technical hindrances.

“We expect INEC to uphold its constitutional duty to the people and guarantee that the election is transparent, credible, and free from any form of technical manipulation,” the party added.

The APP’s concerns stem from reports of alleged technical irregularities during the recent governorship election in Ekiti State, which have raised doubts about the reliability of electoral technology.

“The residents of Osun State have watched with growing concern the reports of technical anomalies in the Ekiti election. These issues demand greater scrutiny of the technology used in future polls,” the statement noted.

The party warned that the people of Osun would not tolerate any form of electoral manipulation using technology. “We make it unequivocally clear that the people of Osun will reject any attempt to rig or tamper with the democratic process through technical means.”

“The citizens are closely monitoring developments, and we will not hesitate to mobilize against any tactics aimed at disenfranchising voters or manipulating the outcome of the August 15 governorship election,” Titus emphasized.

The APP expressed hope that INEC would provide assurances that the upcoming election would be conducted with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness.

The Action Peoples Party in Osun State has issued a strong appeal to security operatives, urging them to ensure full implementation of a recent Federal High Court judgment regarding the local government impasse.

In a statement released on Sunday by its chairman, Odesola Titus, the party emphasized that the court’s decision unequivocally affirms the mandate of democratically elected council officials.

The Federal High Court in Osogbo ruled that the continued stay in office of APC-affiliated chairmen and councillors is unconstitutional, according to Odesola.

However, the APP clarified that the judgment does not nullify the local government elections conducted on February 22, 2025.

“We alert all security agencies in Osun State about the recent Federal High Court verdict. The court has clearly declared the continued tenure of Yes or No (APC) chairmen and councillors as illegal,” Odesola stated.

He stressed that the ruling reinforces the need to acknowledge and protect the authority of legitimately elected officials, warning against any unlawful interference with their duties.

“Given this verdict, we call on all relevant security bodies to act promptly to enforce compliance. It is vital to maintain peace, law, and order in our communities and to safeguard the mandate of those duly elected by the people of Osun State,” he added.

The party further urged security agencies to uphold democratic principles and ensure stability across local government areas in line with the court’s directive.

The APP expressed gratitude for the cooperation of security agencies and their dedication to the rule of law, expressing confidence that the democratic process in Osun would be respected.

This appeal follows Governor Ademola Adeleke’s vow that PDP-elected council officials from the February 22, 2025 polls would assume office on Monday, June 22, 2026.

The state government conducted the local government elections on February 22, 2025, which were overwhelmingly won by PDP candidates.

Governor Adeleke had sworn in the winners on February 23, 2025, but advised them not to report to council secretariats to avert violence.

Meanwhile, outgoing APC officials, whose terms ended on October 22, 2025, had approached the Federal High Court seeking an extension of their tenure.

On June 15, 2026, the court dismissed their application, ruling that they lacked the legal right to file the suit.

The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of betraying a growing sense of unease regarding the rising political appeal of its governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

According to the party, residents of Ogun are eagerly anticipating a fresh direction, and no amount of political spin can halt the transformative wave sweeping across the state. The PDP Youth Leader, Comrade Lukman Ejalonibu, made this known in a statement released on Sunday.

Ejalonibu pointed out that recent remarks by Olamide Lawal, the Special Assistant on Youth Development to the Ogun State Governor, about Adebutu inadvertently exposed the contradictions within the ruling party. Lawal had previously claimed on a television program that Adebutu poses no real threat to the APC, lacking the political stamina and track record needed to unseat the incumbent.

He also argued that current zoning arrangements in the state significantly reduce any chance of Adebutu succeeding Governor Dapo Abiodun. In response, Ejalonibu argued that the APC’s persistent focus on Adebutu is a clear testament to his expanding popularity, acceptance, and deep connection with the people of Ogun State.

“It is both ironic and laughable that the APC, which insists Adebutu is no threat, continues to waste precious airtime discussing him. No political party invests so much energy attacking someone they consider irrelevant,” Ejalonibu said.

He further challenged attempts to dismiss Adebutu’s achievements as a former House of Representatives member, highlighting his constituency projects, educational scholarships, youth empowerment initiatives, and community development efforts. Ejalonibu described Adebutu as “a true son of Ogun State, whose heritage, dedication, and contributions to the state are undeniable.” He emphasized that Adebutu’s bond with the people predates his political ambitions.

The PDP youth leader stressed that the party’s primary mission is to offer credible alternatives and rally citizens around accountable, inclusive, and people-focused governance. He also criticized the APC for using zoning as a smokescreen to avoid substantive debates on pressing issues like unemployment, infrastructure decay, and economic hardship.

“Democracy thrives on ideas, competence, and public trust, not on fear-driven excuses. If Oladipupo Adebutu truly posed no threat, there would be no reason for the ruling party and its spokespersons to keep making him the focus of their political discussions,” Ejalonibu concluded.

The Kano State Police Commissioner, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has issued a stern warning that the state will not provide a safe harbor for criminals and swindlers. This declaration was made public on Sunday through a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.

During a ceremony where recovered stolen vehicles were returned to their owners, the commissioner emphasized the police command’s zero-tolerance stance on crime. The statement highlighted that four stolen vehicles were recovered through intelligence-driven operations by the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) and Badawa Division across Kano, Yobe, and Kaduna states within the past week.

One major breakthrough involved the arrest of Suleiman Umar in Damaturu, Yobe State. He allegedly used a fake bank alert to fraudulently obtain a red Kia Forte worth N9.5 million from a car dealer based in Lagos. The suspect confessed to the crime, and the vehicle was recovered and handed back to its owner.

In another operation, a red Daihatsu Sirion stolen from outside a residence in Tarauni Local Government Area, Kano State, was recovered abandoned. Efforts to arrest the fleeing suspects are ongoing. Similarly, an ash-colored Hyundai Elantra stolen from an event center in Kano was recovered in Zaria, Kaduna State, after the suspects abandoned it during a tactical police operation.

A Toyota ambulance belonging to EHA Special Hospital was also recovered. The vehicle, along with solar batteries and other items, was stolen after attackers assaulted security guards. It was found abandoned along Zaria Road and returned to the hospital management.

The vehicle owners praised the Kano State Police Command for their swift response and professionalism in recovering and returning their property. Commissioner Bakori reiterated that criminals involved in vehicle theft and fraud would find no sanctuary in Kano State. He also urged the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing investigations and enhance public safety.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has extended his heartfelt appreciation to fathers throughout Nigeria in celebration of Father’s Day. He emphasized that the contributions of fathers to family unity, societal harmony, and national advancement are truly invaluable.

In a statement released by CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, Disu highlighted the Nigeria Police Force’s acknowledgment of the efforts, commitment, and guidance provided by fathers. These men play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and reinforcing the ethical foundations needed for a tranquil and prosperous society.

The IGP also underscored the essential role of fathers in raising well-rounded children, fostering strong moral values, and teaching principles such as discipline, integrity, diligence, and patriotism—all vital for nation-building. He observed that the everyday sacrifices fathers make through mentoring, safeguarding, and supporting their families help solidify the social fabric and drive national progress.

Special recognition was given to police officers who, despite the challenges of their profession, remain devoted fathers and mentors at home. Disu commended these officers for balancing the demands of national service with their parental duties, often spending extended periods away from home yet staying committed to their families.

He wished all fathers continued good health, strength, wisdom, and fulfillment, and urged Nigerians to value and acknowledge the sacrifices, dedication, and lasting influence of fathers. Their efforts, he said, are instrumental in building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.

The internal crisis within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) escalated further on Sunday when its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, announced the expulsion of several members associated with the dissolved 3rd Administration of the Directorate of State (DOS), the group’s highest administrative body.

This development follows Kanu’s decision on June 17, 2026, to dissolve the DOS led by Chika Edoziem and appoint a new administration headed by Chris Nwaogu. Edoziem opposed this move and, in retaliation, issued a statement purportedly suspending Kanu as the group’s leader and also announcing the suspension of IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful.

In response, IPOB, through Powerful, dismissed the suspension as invalid and reaffirmed Kanu’s authority, citing the organization’s Code of Conduct, which grants the leader exclusive power to appoint and dissolve the DOS.

In a personal statement released on June 21, 2026, Kanu, currently serving a life sentence in Sokoto prison on terrorism charges, declared the immediate and indefinite expulsion of the Edoziem-led team. The expelled individuals include Chika Edoziem, Tony Nzurumike, Austin Agbanyim, Chukwudi Oforma, Isaiah Ubah, Colins Chinedu, Chinasa Nworu, Fidelis Ejiogu, Chidinma Nworu (also known as Juliet Edward Filatro), and Keke Uda.

Kanu stated, “I, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Supreme Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Worldwide, Head of the Biafra Restoration Project and Director of Radio Biafra, hereby announce the indefinite expulsion of the following members of the dissolved 3rd Administration of the Directorate of State from the Indigenous People of Biafra with immediate effect. These individuals are hereby expelled from IPOB indefinitely. They no longer represent, speak for, or act in any capacity on behalf of the Indigenous People of Biafra.”

Providing context, Kanu explained that leadership changes in the DOS are not unprecedented. He noted that the 3rd Administration’s original six-month term expired in September 2017, and they continued in office at his pleasure. He differentiated the dissolution as an administrative action from the expulsion, which is a disciplinary measure.

Kanu emphasized that all actions were taken under the IPOB Code of Conduct, which vests authority to appoint, discipline, or expel solely in the Supreme Leader. He detailed multiple grounds for the expulsion, including: abandonment of the Supreme Leader and other Biafrans in detention without legal or medical support; countermanding his directives for fundraising when he was critically ill; undermining his legal case; making spurious allegations against his family; circulating false claims about his court case; and persistent violations of the IPOB Code of Conduct.

Kanu warned that anyone associating with or speaking on behalf of the expelled individuals would be considered acting against IPOB’s interests. He urged all genuine members and supporters to back the new 4th Administration led by Chris Nwaogu, concluding, “The movement remains resolute, focused, and united under my clear leadership and vision.”