Category: News

The Deputy Financial Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Oladimeji Fabiyi, has taken a swipe at former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, accusing him of being self-centered and not a genuine leader who fights for the masses. Fabiyi made these remarks while appearing on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program, which was monitored by our correspondent on Tuesday.

Fabiyi’s comments come in the wake of Obi’s recent defection from the ADC to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). The ADC chieftain expressed his dissatisfaction with Obi’s actions, stating that the former Anambra State governor is not someone who embraces challenges or works for the collective good. Instead, Fabiyi claimed that Obi’s political maneuvers are driven by personal ambition rather than a commitment to the Nigerian people.

According to Fabiyi, Obi’s decision to leave ADC was not motivated by the presence of other political figures like Atiku Abubakar or David Mark, but rather by his discomfort with certain internal party dynamics. Fabiyi noted that there was a specific reason behind Obi’s defection, and the former presidential candidate is the only one who can truly explain his reasons. However, he criticized Obi for not being transparent about the real issues that led to his departure.

Fabiyi’s outburst reflects the growing tension within the ADC following the exit of high-profile members like Obi. The ADC official’s remarks highlight the deepening rift between the party leadership and former members who have chosen to align with other political platforms. As Nigeria’s political landscape shifts ahead of the 2027 elections, such defections are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future political alliances.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced a revised timeline for its 2026 primary elections, alongside adjusted costs for nomination forms, following comprehensive discussions with party members, candidates, and key stakeholders.

National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi released the details in an official statement. According to the new plan, the sale of nomination forms is scheduled from May 1 to May 4, 2026, while completed forms must be purchased and submitted between May 6 and May 13, 2026, with the latter date as the absolute deadline.

Candidate screening will occur on May 14 and May 15, 2026, with results published on May 17, 2026. Appeals will be addressed from May 18 to May 19, 2026, and the final list of qualified aspirants will be released on May 20, 2026.

Primaries for State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate positions are set for May 21, 2026, followed by governorship primaries on May 22, 2026. The presidential primary is slated for May 23, 2026, leading to a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 25, 2026, and a Special National Convention on May 26, 2026.

The revised fees are as follows: presidential ticket – N90 million, governorship – N30 million, Senate – N10 million, House of Representatives – N5 million, and State Houses of Assembly – N2 million. The party will continue its concessionary policy, offering a 50% discount for youth aspirants aged 18 to 35, and a 25% discount for women and individuals with disabilities.

These changes result from broad consultations designed to enhance internal democracy, broaden access, and maintain the ADC as a credible and inclusive platform. All aspirants and stakeholders are urged to follow the updated schedule and comply with the published guidelines.

The ADC remains dedicated to organizing effectively and fielding credible candidates for the 2027 general elections.

In a recent television interview, the Deputy National Financial Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Oladimeji Fabiyi, asserted that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi left the party due to apprehension about former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Appearing on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today,’ Fabiyi claimed that both Obi and Rabi’u Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) sought a coronation rather than a competitive political process.

Fabiyi emphasized that Obi’s departure was not a reflection of Atiku’s actions but rather Obi’s fear of facing Atiku in a unified opposition. He explained that Atiku’s initiative was to bring together all opposition forces to challenge the current government under President Bola Tinubu. According to Fabiyi, Atiku demonstrated leadership by convincing various political actors to unite, and that unity is essential to oust the Tinubu administration.

He further stated that Obi and Kwankwaso misinterpreted Atiku’s efforts. Fabiyi stressed that the goal was to consolidate opposition for the 2027 elections, not to serve individual ambitions. He clarified that Atiku did not instigate Obi’s exit; rather, Obi and Kwankwaso wanted a coronation, which conflicted with the broader strategy of opposition unity.

Fabiyi’s comments come amid ongoing political realignments as parties prepare for the 2027 general elections. The ADC chieftain’s remarks highlight the tensions within opposition parties regarding leadership and strategy.

In a significant political development, Mustapha Sule Lamido, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Jigawa State from the 2023 elections, has officially acquired the party’s nomination form to run again in 2027. Lamido personally delivered the form to members of the PDP State Working Committee and other influential stakeholders, seeking their endorsement and backing for the upcoming electoral contest.

This action has put an end to rumors that he might defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Earlier speculation suggested that Lamido had engaged in talks with the ruling party, but investigations reveal that those discussions failed to yield an agreement, keeping him firmly within the PDP fold.

Addressing Jigawa PDP stakeholders, Lamido stated that he had completed all necessary consultations and resolved to seek the party’s approval to be its gubernatorial flagbearer in the next election. He emphasized his commitment to the party’s principles, stating, “We are PDP card-carrying members, and we believe in our party’s philosophy, strength, and resilience to tackle its internal challenges and also surmount the problems militating against Jigawa and Nigeria if given the chance again.” He further expressed confidence that the people of Jigawa and Nigerians still trust the PDP, asserting that no other party has delivered projects and programs that have improved their lives as the PDP has. He criticized other political parties that have held power after the PDP, accusing them of worsening the country’s social, economic, and security challenges through poor leadership.

Lamido called on all PDP members in the state to support his candidacy, promising to continue advocating for the PDP’s core philosophy of patriotism and service to humanity.

The Enugu State chapter of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially welcomed a fresh wave of members, including supporters from the Obidient Movement and followers of former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso. In a statement released on Tuesday in Enugu, party leaders expressed confidence that this influx will bolster their political strength ahead of upcoming elections.

The announcement, made by State Secretary Dr. Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor and Publicity Secretary Mr. Emmanuel Ugwuegze, highlighted that the new members reflect a growing trust in the party’s vision. Notable figures such as Gil Nnaji, Chief Chinyeaka Ohaa, Princess Adaogbu, and Chief John Nwokeabia are among those who recently joined.

According to the NDC leadership, the party is emerging as a formidable force capable of winning elections in Enugu. They emphasized an open-door policy, welcoming collaborations with individuals and groups from various political backgrounds. The statement read: “The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Enugu State Chapter, warmly welcomes all new members. Your decision to join at this pivotal moment shows a shared commitment to purposeful leadership, inclusive governance, and people-focused policies.”

It continued: “The growing influx of credible personalities and grassroots supporters signals that Ndi Enugu are eager for a fresh direction. We are thrilled to welcome prominent sons and daughters from the Obidient Movement into our party. With leaders like Sen. Gil Nnaji, Chief Chinyeaka Ohaa, Princess Adaogbu, and Chief John Nwokeabia, the NDC gains enhanced capacity to win elections and become a dominant political force in Enugu State. We take pride in this new chapter in our state’s political journey.”

The party reaffirmed its dedication to improving education, healthcare, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kano State has put an end to its internal leadership wrangling following the intervention of the party’s national leadership. The dispute, which erupted after the former Kano State Governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement joined the party, threatened to split the state chapter. However, a special meeting convened on Tuesday by the party’s national chairman, Senator Seriake Henry Dickson, successfully restored harmony.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Engineer Muhammad Sabo Bakin Zuwo (Vice Chairman for the Northwest), and other senior party officials. After thorough deliberations, the gathering unanimously resolved that Honourable Husaini Isah Mai Riga should remain the chairman of the NDC in Kano State.

In a statement released by Adam Said Adam, the Director General of Social Media for the NDC Kano State Chapter, the resolution was described as a testament to the political acumen and statesmanship displayed by the Kwankwasiyya leader, who played a crucial role in mediating the conflict and ensuring party unity. The statement highlighted that the amicable resolution reflects the maturity and wisdom of the party’s leadership at all levels.

In response, Mai Riga expressed heartfelt gratitude to Senator Seriake Henry Dickson, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Engineer Muhammad Sabo Bakin Zuwo, and the entire people of Kano State for their unwavering support and affection during the turbulent period. He also took the opportunity to apologize to anyone he may have inadvertently offended in recent days and asked for their forgiveness.

Mai Riga further prayed for divine guidance and strength for the NDC across all levels, success in the forthcoming elections, and lasting peace and development for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised alarm over the alleged unjustified sealing of its headquarters in Kaduna by officers of the Nigeria Police Force. This action comes just hours before the Forum’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, which was scheduled for Wednesday, April 6, 2026.

In a statement released to the press, the ACF National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Muhammad-Baba, expressed dismay at what he described as an arbitrary and baseless closure. He noted that the only explanation for the police action is a brief unsigned circular, purportedly authored by Bashir Dalhatu, Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees (BOT), which claims the meeting has been canceled because it was convened by the Forum’s Secretary General.

Prof. Muhammad-Baba stressed that the ACF is not aware of any court order or legal restriction that would justify such a drastic measure. He further clarified that, according to the ACF Constitution, the BOT Chairman has no authority over matters beyond those outlined in Section 8 of the same constitution. The meeting in question was called by the ACF Chairman, Mamman Osuman, under Sections 20(3) and 13(3)(c) of the constitution, which explicitly grant the Chairman the power to convene meetings, irrespective of any debates regarding the tenure of the Secretary General.

The statement emphasized that both the National Working Committee (NWC) meeting, which occurred earlier in the day, and the NEC meeting were conducted with prior notification to relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police. Therefore, there is no legitimate reason for sealing the office. The ACF strongly urged the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, to direct the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police to immediately unseal the headquarters. With delegates already arriving in Kaduna for the NEC meeting, the Forum hopes for a swift and rational resolution to this matter.

The Nigerian Army has expressed deep concern over the proliferation of false narratives suggesting that troops have suffered setbacks in the fight against Boko Haram in the North-East. Such misinformation, it warned, endangers national security and undermines ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.

Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, who commands Operation Hadin Kai, made these remarks during a meeting with defense and frontline journalists in Maiduguri on Tuesday. He emphasized that contemporary warfare extends beyond physical combat into the realm of information, where propaganda can sway public opinion and lower military spirits.

Abubakar pointed out that inaccurate reporting can distort the actual situation on the ground and weaken the nation’s resolve if left unchecked. He specifically criticized unverified posts on social media claiming operational failures and troop defeats, calling them deceptive and detrimental to the mission.

The commander also warned about individuals lacking professional journalism training who share unconfirmed security updates online, thereby fueling confusion and hindering military progress. He reaffirmed that Operation Hadin Kai continues to achieve notable victories, including eliminating terrorists and disrupting their supply chains.

Additionally, he noted that insurgents have adapted by blending into civilian populations, making identification and engagement more challenging. Abubakar called for enhanced cooperation between the military and the media to promote factual reporting and responsible communication. He urged journalists to cross-check sensitive security information with official sources before publishing.

Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to a dual approach involving both kinetic operations and non-kinetic measures such as community outreach, rebuilding infrastructure, and providing humanitarian aid to stabilize liberated areas in the North-East.

A deadly assault by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on a military outpost in the Lake Chad region has resulted in the deaths of 23 Chadian soldiers, with an additional 26 troops sustaining injuries. The attack, which occurred late Monday, targeted a base on the island of Barka Tolorom within Lake Chad.

The Chadian military reported that its forces engaged the militants in a fierce exchange of gunfire, successfully repelling the assault and inflicting heavy losses on the attackers, though the exact number of insurgent casualties was not disclosed.

President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno strongly condemned the incident, labeling it a cowardly act by Boko Haram. In an official statement, he extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and reaffirmed Chad’s commitment to stepping up military operations against terrorist groups active in the Lake Chad basin. He vowed to continue the fight with renewed determination until the insurgent threat is completely neutralized.

The Lake Chad region, which borders Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon, remains a volatile hotspot for Boko Haram and its splinter factions. Cross-border attacks on both military and civilian targets are frequent. This latest incident echoes a similar attack in October 2024, when around 40 Chadian soldiers were killed in the same area. Security sources indicate that Chadian forces have faced mounting pressure in recent months.

Military authorities confirmed that operations are ongoing to secure the area and prevent further incursions by insurgent elements.

The Abia State Government has received the final report from its seven-member administrative panel tasked with probing the unrest in Okon Aku, a community in Ohafia Local Government Area. The panel was established following the tragic death of Igwe Akuma, a youth leader in the area, and widespread destruction of homes due to arson.

Governor Alex Otti, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, accepted the document during a ceremony in Umuahia on Tuesday. He assured that the government would carefully review the findings via the Office of the Secretary to the State Government before releasing a White Paper to implement the recommendations and restore lasting peace.

Retired Justice Kenneth Wosu, who chaired the panel, revealed that 52 memoranda were submitted by various individuals and groups after a broad public awareness campaign. Public hearings ran from January 28 to March 10, 2026, with 27 sessions conducted. During this period, the panel admitted 56 exhibits, including both documentary and electronic evidence.

The team also conducted an on-site visit to Okon Aku and held thorough deliberations, summoning key persons to clarify issues and respond to allegations. According to Wosu, the crisis originated from several underlying factors, including disputes over the management of the Erei Farm Settlement, succession conflicts regarding the Ezogo and Nnaka traditional stools, and a long-standing rivalry between the Ndi Uma and Ndi Owo kindreds for traditional authority.

Other contributing elements included the removal of the Okon Aku Development Union president and allegations of external meddling in traditional matters. The immediate trigger was the murder of a former youth leader, which escalated tensions and resulted in a total breakdown of law and order, with arson and violent clashes.

The panel has recommended the immediate creation of an all-inclusive Okon Aku Community Peace Committee, government takeover of the Erei Farm Settlement, and a full investigation and prosecution of those involved in criminal activities.