Category: News

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) chairmen from various local government areas in Lagos State have issued a strong appeal to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). They are urging the NWC to honour the results of the governorship primary election and respect the collective will of party members.

In a communiqué released after a meeting of the Forum of Local Government Area Chairmen of ADC in Lagos, the leaders expressed concerns over attempts to undermine the democratic process. The statement, jointly signed by the forum’s Chairman, Anaere Ugochukwu, and Secretary, Oluwabukola Okeowo, highlighted what they see as efforts to set aside the mandate given by members during the primary.

The chairmen reaffirmed their confidence in the state party leadership, particularly ADC Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru and the State Executive Committee. They praised the committee’s efforts in steering the party’s affairs effectively.

According to the forum, the credibility and future growth of any political party hinge on its dedication to internal democracy and adherence to members’ decisions. They insisted that the votes cast by party faithful must remain the ultimate basis for selecting candidates, warning against any actions that could erode members’ trust.

“As grassroots leaders, we firmly believe that the strength and integrity of a political party are anchored on democratic principles. The collective decision of our members must be upheld without exception,” the communiqué noted.

The forum argued that the ADC’s electoral prospects in upcoming elections would largely depend on the confidence and loyalty of its members and supporters statewide. They urged the national leadership to carefully review the issues surrounding the Lagos governorship primary and ensure that any final decision aligns with the party’s constitution and democratic norms.

The chairmen cautioned that moves perceived as disregarding the preferences of party members could weaken the party’s foundation at the grassroots level and hinder its electoral success. They further appealed to the National Secretariat and NWC to allow the mandate freely expressed during the primary to stand, describing this as essential for preserving unity and stability within the party.

According to the forum, respecting the primary outcome will boost the ADC’s chances of becoming a major political force in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group emphasized that a commitment to democratic values is crucial if the party intends to build on its growing support and achieve electoral victory in the state.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has implemented a significant reshuffling of its candidate list in Kano State, removing several nominees put forward by the Kwankwasiyya faction. This move stems from an alleged failure to adhere to a previously established power-sharing agreement between the two political groups.

According to a statement signed by the party’s Kano State Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, and obtained by Siyasarmu TV, the decision was taken to enforce a 60-40 distribution formula for elective positions and party offices. Under this arrangement, the Kwankwasiyya group was entitled to 60 percent of the slots, while the NDC structure retained 40 percent.

The revised list, which was copied to National Leader Seriake Dickson, Kwankwasiyya leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and NDC North-West Zonal Chairman Alhaji Muhammadu Rabi’u Sabo Bakinzuwo, introduces new candidates for several key constituencies. For the House of Representatives, the party approved Barrister Isma’il Idris Sani for Kumbotso, Nasiru Ali Ahmed for Nassarawa, Kabiru Ishaq Sa’id for Kano Municipal, Barrister Dayyabu Jamilu Ibrahim for Doguwa/Tudun Wada, Muhammad Hamisu Abubakar for Dawakin Tofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa, Ibrahim Bashir Bango for Sumaila/Takai, and Abdulmajid Isa Umar Mairigar Fata for Gwale federal constituency.

Adjustments were also made to State House of Assembly tickets in Dala, Tarauni, Kumbotso, Ungogo, and Dawakin Kudu constituencies.

NDC spokesperson Comrade Ibrahim Waya explained that the changes were necessary to uphold the agreed formula and avert internal strife. “There was an understanding on the 60-40 sharing formula between the party leadership and Senator Kwankwaso. The action was taken urgently to avoid crisis within the party,” Waya stated.

The development is expected to intensify political tensions within the emerging alliance as both sides continue negotiations over the distribution of positions ahead of the upcoming polls.

In a significant political move, Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former senator representing Ogun Central, has announced her departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC). She attributed her resignation to what she described as a continuing pattern of marginalization, rejection, and unfair treatment by the party’s leadership in Ogun State.

The decision was conveyed in a letter dated May 31, addressed to the Ogun APC chairman, Yemi Sanusi. Obasanjo, a US-based epidemiologist, had recently sought the party’s governorship ticket for Ogun State but was unsuccessful. She criticized the process that led to the emergence of Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate, claiming the consensus method used did not follow the party’s established guidelines.

She stated that although she had agreed to support any candidate selected through a consensus process, she was neither consulted nor informed before Adeola’s announcement. Furthermore, some of her supporters were allegedly barred from the venue where the candidate was unveiled and faced intimidation during the event. Despite these concerns, Obasanjo said she accepted the outcome in the interest of party unity and promptly congratulated Adeola.

She also revealed that Adeola later agreed to meet with her supporters, who presented three demands. However, despite a promise to respond within a week, no feedback was given even after two months. This, she said, reinforced a recurring lack of appreciation for her contributions within the party.

Obasanjo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Ogun APC leadership, and party stakeholders for their support during her time in the APC. She had rejoined partisan politics earlier this year, registering as an APC member in Ward 11, Ibogun, Ifo Local Government Area. Her political career includes serving as Ogun State Commissioner for Health from 2003 to 2007 and as a senator representing Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011. After losing her re-election bid in 2011, she moved to the United States and stayed away from active politics until late 2025, when campaign billboards appeared across Ogun State signaling her potential return for the 2027 governorship race.

A prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), John Odigie-Oyegun, has voiced strong concerns about the escalating wave of defections, resignations, and party changes among Nigerian politicians. He believes this trend highlights serious weaknesses in the nation’s political framework.

During a speech in Benin, Edo State, on Sunday, the former governor noted that the constant movement of politicians between parties, often sparked by internal disagreements, raises doubts about their dedication to national progress and the well-being of the populace.

Odigie-Oyegun pointed out that the high frequency of party abandonment indicates that key issues within Nigeria’s democratic system have yet to be addressed. He observed that the behavior of many politicians does not reflect a sincere effort to tackle the difficulties faced by Nigerians, such as economic struggles and security threats.

In his view, if political leaders were genuinely committed to rescuing the country and enhancing citizens’ lives, the massive political realignments occurring ahead of the 2027 general elections would not be necessary. The ADC stalwart argued that the political class seems disconnected from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians endure, and their actions often lack a true commitment to national advancement.

“If those in power were truly driven by a desire to save the nation, we would not be seeing the developments now unfolding as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify,” he remarked. He stressed that efforts should concentrate on resolving urgent national challenges instead of engaging in political maneuvers that do little to improve people’s lives.

Odigie-Oyegun also called on opposition figures across the country to examine their motivations and determine whether their actions truly aim to reduce the suffering of Nigerians. He emphasized the need for opposition leaders to focus on providing solutions to the nation’s problems rather than pursuing narrow personal ambitions.

Despite his worries, the former governor expressed optimism about the opposition’s potential, stating that a fair electoral environment and strong institutions could pave the way for a change in political leadership. He added that the opposition can successfully challenge the ruling party if the electoral process and state institutions operate with fairness and transparency.

Dele Momodu, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar stands as President Bola Tinubu’s most formidable opponent ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Speaking on Monday, Momodu emphasized that the upcoming contest will be a clash of political heavyweights, with Atiku emerging as the primary challenger to Tinubu’s leadership.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Momodu urged the ADC to overhaul its political approach and embrace modern strategies to remain relevant. He argued that the party must bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary politics, blending conservative values with innovative governance.

According to Momodu, the 2027 election is primarily a duel between Tinubu and Atiku, though a third force might emerge, similar to the 2023 election cycle. However, he cautioned that such a force would likely lack the strength and tenacity to displace the two seasoned politicians. The ADC chieftain stressed the urgency for national reconciliation, reorientation, and reconstruction, noting that the current political climate is fraught with tension and chaos.

Momodu called for a reunification of the North and South, moving beyond ethnic and religious divisions. He lamented the rise of political gangsterism and the erosion of legacies left by Nigeria’s founding fathers, such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, and Obafemi Awolowo. He warned that without immediate action, the nation risks descending further into turmoil, making it imperative for the ADC to act as a bridge between the old and new guard.

In a bold move signaling his political ambitions, media mogul Dele Momodu has unveiled a campaign-style image on social media that positions him as the prospective running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential race. The Ovation magazine publisher took to his Facebook page on Monday to share the poster, which he accompanied with a call for national healing and renewal.

Momodu characterized the upcoming election as a showdown between two political heavyweights: President Bola Tinubu and Atiku, whom he described as the primary contenders. He argued that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) must reinvent itself by fostering collaboration between seasoned politicians and emerging technocrats, as well as bridging generational divides.

Reflecting on the current landscape, Momodu stated, “It promises to be the battle of the Tians. A third force, hopefully, may show up, like it did in 2023, but not with enough fire power and tenacity to upstage, and obliterate, the two elder statesmen.” He emphasized that such a strategy would be crucial for strengthening national unity and alleviating the country’s political and social tensions.

The publisher also highlighted the importance of enhanced cooperation between Northern and Southern Nigeria, cautioning that if political leaders fail to act, the nation’s challenges could worsen. He advocated for a return to issue-based politics and leadership inspired by the ideals of Nigeria’s founding fathers, including Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The move has sparked discussions about potential alliances and the evolving dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.

Dr. Yusuf Bello Danbatta, who was the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, has officially switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a statement he personally signed and released to the press, Danbatta explained that his decision came after thorough deliberations and extensive discussions with political figures, allies, backers, and other key players.

He believes the APC provides a more effective avenue to champion the interests of the populace and back programs aimed at enhancing governance and progress. The former PDP candidate pointed to the leadership approach and development initiatives of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration as a major factor in his move. He praised the Kano First Agenda as a visionary plan that shows a strong dedication to sound governance, human capital growth, infrastructure renewal, and the state’s overall advancement.

Reaffirming his steadfast commitment to public service, Danbatta vowed to keep working for the unity and advancement of the people, irrespective of party lines. He urged his followers and colleagues to back efforts focused on the continued growth, stability, and development of Kano State.

According to Arise News Director of Politics, Sumner Sambo, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has declined the opportunity to serve as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Speaking on The Morning Show, Sambo explained that Okonjo-Iweala is unwilling to abandon her lucrative position at the World Trade Organisation, where she is serving a second term ending in 2029.

He noted that while speculations about her potential candidacy have circulated, she has made it clear she intends to stay in her current role. Sambo argued that it would be illogical for her to leave a secure international appointment for a political contest in Nigeria, particularly one involving a party still entangled in legal disputes.

Emphasizing her recent resumption in September and extended tenure, Sambo stated that Okonjo-Iweala would not consider the vice-presidential offer. He described the WTO role as both lucrative and stable, contrasting it with what he called the uncertainties of Nigerian politics.

Retired Police Commissioner Ikechukwu Ayo Aduba has publicly taken issue with Chief Philip Asiodu, accusing him of misrepresenting historical facts. Asiodu recently released a statement denying that Asaba has Igbo roots and dismissing the ethnic nature of the 1967 Asaba Massacre, asserting that ‘Asaba is not Igbo.’

In a pointed rebuttal titled ‘Building On Truth: Asaba, Igbo Identity And The 1967 Massacre,’ Aduba argued that Asaba is unequivocally an Igbo community based on its language, culture, and ancestry. He emphasized that Asiodu’s claims ignore robust linguistic, cultural, and scholarly evidence, including documentation from Asaba’s own traditional institutions.

‘Chief Philip Asiodu is entitled to his political opinions, but history is not a matter of personal belief,’ Aduba stated. ‘It is preserved in language, artifacts, and lineage.’

To substantiate his position, Aduba pointed out that Asaba, though located in Delta State, is part of the Anioma/Igboid cluster. He noted that the Igbo language is officially recognized as Asaba’s national language, and linguists classify Anioma communities, including Asaba, as native speakers of Igboid languages within the Niger-Congo family. Specifically, the Enuani dialect, spoken in Asaba and surrounding towns, is listed as an Igbo dialect.

Aduba further highlighted cultural continuity, noting that Asaba’s traditions align with core Igbo customs, or Omenala. ‘The Asagba of Asaba himself commits to preserving Asaba’s heritage, including Igba Mkpisi, an Igbo initiation rite tied to titles and ancestry. The traditional greeting to the Asagba is “Nna Agu! Asagba Ahaba Agu,” which uses Igbo titles and cosmology. Masquerade traditions such as Agaba and Mgbedike originate from Igbo-speaking communities,’ he explained.

He also pointed out that the five quarters of Asaba—Ezenei, Ugbomanta, Umuagu, Umuaji, and Umuonaje—all carry the Igbo prefix ‘Umu,’ meaning ‘children.’ The town’s original name, Ani Ahaba, translates to ‘We have settled in this land,’ an Igbo phrase.

Regarding the Asaba Massacre of October 5-7, 1967, Aduba insisted that the killings were ethnically motivated, contradicting Asiodu’s claim that ethnicity was not a factor. He cited federal records, survivor testimonies, and academic research to support his view. Additionally, he reminded that former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon publicly apologized to the people of Asaba in 2001 for the high death toll, which estimates place between 373 and 800, with survivors and recent memorials citing over 1,000 fatalities.

‘The sons and daughters of Asaba who perished in October 1967 deserve the truth, as do future generations. A accurate history is the bedrock of a great society. Let us build on truth,’ Aduba concluded.

The Kano State Hisbah Board has announced that prospective couples from 24 local government areas are required to report to their respective Hisbah offices on Monday, June 8, 2026, for medical screenings as part of the state-sponsored mass wedding program for 3,000 couples.

Deputy Commander-General of the board, Mujahideen Aminudddeen, stated on Sunday that the affected councils include Rogo, Wudil, Tudun Wada, Warawa, Kibiya, Dawakin Tofa, Garun Malam, Kura, Dambatta, Karaye, Tsanyawa, Minjibir, Rimin Gado, Shanono, Kabo, Tofa, Rano, Bebeji, Ajingi, Gwarzo, Sumaila, Kiru, Takai, and Madobi.

He further explained that the screening will cover tests for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, genotype compatibility, drug use, and pregnancy checks for female applicants. Successful couples will then be cleared to participate in the mass wedding.

Recall that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf had earlier unveiled plans to sponsor the marriage of 1,500 men and 1,500 women, primarily widows, divorcees, orphans, and low-income residents. Each groom will receive N100,000 as dowry support, while couples will be provided with household items such as beds, mattresses, wardrobes, and food supplies, along with an additional N100,000 grant to start small businesses.