Category: News

In a candid assessment of Nigeria’s shifting political landscape, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, who served as the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate in 2023, has voiced skepticism over whether the northern region would ever fully embrace a joint ticket comprising Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. He argued that historical voting behavior and entrenched regional loyalties make such an alliance improbable.

During a recent interview, Datti explained that he refrains from naming specific politicians in his commentary, yet he emphasized that northern voters are unlikely to coalesce around what he termed the ‘OK’ pairing. He made clear that his doubts stem from an understanding of regional dynamics, not from personal animosity toward either leader.

Reflecting on a January 2024 meeting with Obi at John Wilson Hotel, Datti disclosed that he advised the former Anambra governor to reach out to influential northern figures like Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai. He stressed that political foresight extending beyond immediate electoral cycles is essential for success. ‘If in 2024 you cannot plan for 2027, then I cannot continue to be with you,’ he recalled telling Obi.

Datti also questioned the logic behind shifting alliances, noting that some political actors who rejected coalition opportunities in 2022 are now seeking partnerships. He posed the rhetorical question, ‘What changed between 2022 and 2023?’ suggesting that inconsistency undermines trust and electoral viability.

He highlighted a critical paradox in the opposition’s push for new leadership: while there is a call for youthful, fresh faces, some proposed vice-presidential candidates are actually older and more experienced than their running mates. ‘You are looking for new blood, a new generation, yet you may have a vice-presidential figure who is older in age, education, political profile, and experience,’ he said.

Turning to Kwankwaso’s political stature, Datti noted the former Kano governor’s deep roots in his region. ‘The local government is almost his state, the state is almost his region. And this is someone with strong ambition and temperament, who, then, will actually be the president?’ he asked. This, he argued, could create internal power struggles that undermine any joint ticket.

Datti concluded by emphasizing that consistent party structures and long-term strategic planning remain crucial for any opposition success. While collaboration is theoretically possible, he warned that internal contradictions and demographic realities could derail even the most promising alliances.

Dr. Adefolaseye Adebayo, the South West Coordinator of the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement (OK Movement), has announced that approximately 10 million Nigerians registered with the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) within a single day following former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi’s decision to join the party.

According to reports, Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso departed from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday to align with the NDC ahead of the forthcoming general elections. This move has sparked debate, with some critics suggesting that Obi’s presidential ambitions are diminishing.

In response to these criticisms during an interview on Arise TV on Monday, Adebayo refuted the claims, emphasizing that Obi’s widespread support spans all six geopolitical zones of the country. She asserted that the focus should be on Obi’s character and competence rather than the political party he represents.

Adebayo stated: “Peter Obi commands a massive following across Nigeria. It is inaccurate to suggest that his chances or those of the South East have been significantly weakened. Within 24 hours of Obi leaving the ADC, 10 million Nigerians enrolled as members of the NDC, which speaks volumes about his influence.”

Aminu Gwarzo, who previously served as Deputy Governor of Kano State, has officially ended his membership with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The resignation notification, which he sent to the ADC chairman in Gwarzo Local Government Area, was effective without delay.

Gwarzo explained that his decision was driven by recent shifts in the political environment and a need to reassess his party affiliation in light of his personal political goals. He noted that after careful consideration and consultations with allies, supporters, and well-wishers across Kano, he chose to step away from the party.

The former deputy governor emphasized that the changing political scene compelled him to pursue a different direction. His departure adds to a series of exits from the ADC, including prominent figures like Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) held its zonal congress for the North-West region on Monday, resulting in the election of a fresh set of officials. Hon. Salihu Suleiman, a delegate from Kaduna State, was chosen as the new National Vice Chairman for the zone.

The announcement was made via a statement from the electoral committee, signed by Chairman Adamu Idris and Secretary Titus Madaki, following the event at the party’s state secretariat in Kaduna. They confirmed that all candidates for the available posts were returned unopposed.

During his address to the delegates, Idris emphasized the importance of inclusive governance within the party, urging the newly elected officers to involve all members in decision-making processes. He also called for enhanced internal unity and robust democratic structures, highlighting the need for the SDP to remain cohesive and competitive as future elections approach.

Speaking on behalf of the new officials, Suleiman pledged to fortify the party under his stewardship. He said the focus would be on building a formidable opposition across the zone, with the aim of boosting the party’s electoral performance and improving its prospects in upcoming polls.

The full list of elected officials includes: Rilwanu Jamo (Katsina) as Zonal Secretary; Hassan Gidan Laka (Sokoto) as Zonal Treasurer; Comrade Musa Lawan (Katsina) as Zonal Publicity Secretary; Comrade Inuwa Idris (Kaduna) as Zonal Financial Secretary; Bishop Alex Baidi as Zonal Organising Secretary; Dr. Aminu Sagagi as Welfare Secretary; Garba Namodori as Auditor; Ummi Kabir as Women Leader; and Murtala Jangebe as Youth Leader.

In a significant political maneuver, the lawmaker representing Abia South in the Senate, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has abandoned the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Labour Party (LP), marking yet another shift in his party affiliation.

The announcement was made by Emenike Iroegbu, the Labour Party’s publicity secretary for Abia State, confirming that the seasoned politician has formally joined their ranks.

Abaribe’s career has been characterized by frequent party changes. He previously moved to ADC in December of the prior year, after having left the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under whose banner he secured reelection in the 2023 general elections. His tenure in ADC proved brief, lasting only a few months.

Currently in his fifth term as the senator for Abia South, Abaribe has yet to release any personal statement regarding this latest defection, leaving the political landscape buzzing with speculation.

Veteran journalist and former presidential spokesman Reuben Abati has raised concerns about the rapid expansion of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), cautioning that the party must avoid turning into a sanctuary for displaced politicians. Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Tuesday, Abati highlighted that the NDC’s membership has skyrocketed from approximately 9.4 million to over 10 million in a short span, fueled by the recent defections of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Abati acknowledged that the influx of prominent figures has bolstered the party’s profile, positioning it as a formidable opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections. However, he warned that without a clear ideological framework and structured engagement, the NDC risks becoming an “IDP camp”—a haven for internally displaced politicians seeking refuge rather than a vehicle for genuine change. He emphasized that the party must articulate a concrete manifesto and establish a meaningful contract with Nigerians, rather than relying on vague slogans about service, rule of law, agriculture, and transportation.

According to Abati, the NDC’s sudden popularity serves as a wake-up call for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling that opposition cannot be suppressed. He noted that attempts to stifle dissent in other parties would only drive politicians to regroup elsewhere. Abati expressed hope that the political landscape ahead of 2027 would be competitive, offering voters real choices rather than a predetermined outcome. He praised Obi and Kwankwaso for bringing “heft, peace, and momentum” to the NDC, but reiterated that the party must engage meaningfully with the electorate to avoid being dismissed as a mere collection of disgruntled politicians.

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has issued a strong warning to businesses across the state, cautioning them against the use of misleading prices and hidden costs in advertisements. In a statement released on Monday, the agency’s general manager, Afolabi Solebo, expressed concern over the rising trend of entrepreneurs advertising goods and services at attractive rates, only for consumers to encounter unexpected charges or conflicting terms at the point of sale.

Solebo emphasized that such practices erode consumer trust and violate established consumer protection laws. He stressed that all advertised prices must be transparent, accurate, and all-inclusive, and that businesses have an obligation to present pricing clearly to avoid confusing or deceiving buyers. The agency warned it will not tolerate tactics like unclear pricing, fake discounts, or bait-and-switch schemes designed to lure unsuspecting customers.

Additionally, Solebo cautioned businesses running promotions, discounts, or raffle draws to avoid ambiguous phrases like “while stock lasts,” unless clearly defined, as such terms may infringe on consumer rights. He urged businesses to specify the exact duration of offers, including start and end dates, along with all associated conditions. The general manager reiterated that non-compliance with fair pricing and advertising rules is an offense under the Lagos State Consumer Protection Law, particularly the “right to be informed,” and will result in penalties, sanctions, and possible prosecution.

LASCOPA called on all business owners—including supermarkets, online vendors, automobile dealers, electronics stores, service providers, and retailers—to review their pricing and advertising practices to ensure full legal compliance. Consumers are encouraged to report instances of misleading pricing or false advertisements through the agency’s official complaint channels. LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumers and fostering a fair, transparent, and competitive marketplace in Lagos State.

In a swift response to an attack on an investigative journalist, the Rivers State Police Command has apprehended 13 individuals. The arrests follow an incident where journalist Allwell Ene was reportedly assaulted while conducting solo investigative work in a Port Harcourt area known for criminal activity.

Commissioner of Police Olugenga Adewole Adepoju took immediate action upon receiving the report, initiating an investigation and inviting the journalist for an account. The Divisional Police Officer of the Olu-Obasanjo Division deployed operatives to the scene, successfully rescuing the journalist.

According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the rescue was followed by coordinated operations in the Olu-Obasanjo axis and surrounding areas, leading to the detention of 13 suspects. These individuals are allegedly linked to phone theft and harassment of residents.

The command stated that investigations are ongoing, with efforts to apprehend other criminals and ensure they are prosecuted. Additionally, police advised journalists and private investigators to avoid working alone in dangerous locations and to collaborate closely with security forces to ensure their safety.

The Rivers State Police Command reiterated its dedication to protecting lives and property and vowed to continue operations to cleanse the state of criminal elements.

The Ebonyi State Government has officially ended the curfew imposed on Amasiri Autonomous Community in Afikpo Local Government Area. The restriction was lifted three months following the deaths of four individuals from Okporojo Village in Idima Community, Edda Local Government Area.

Mrs. E.Y. Kolawole, the Director of the State Security Service (DSS) in Ebonyi, shared this update during a press briefing after a security council meeting at the Governor’s Office in Abakaliki on Monday. She confirmed that the curfew has been fully lifted but emphasized that security personnel will remain stationed in the region to preserve peace and order.

Kolawole further stated that authorities are preparing to declare wanted other suspects still at large in connection with the attack.

The State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Barrister Ben Odoh, explained that the government’s decision was influenced by multiple apology letters from the Amasiri Community, which were accepted by the Okporojo Village. Odoh noted that these letters were submitted through Amasiri’s traditional leaders, who pledged their dedication to peace and reconciliation.

Odoh also revealed that appeals from founding fathers and the council of elders played a key role in the government’s rejection of a proposed bill that sought to remove Amasiri Development Centre from the list of the state’s 64 development centres.

Regarding the return to normalcy, Mrs. Rita Mary Okoro, the State Head of Service, stated that her office will oversee the removal of restrictions on schools and healthcare facilities in the area. She added that a circular will be sent to the Ministries of Education and Health, along with the Local Government Service Commission, to facilitate the return of staff previously redeployed from Amasiri Development Centre.

Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Hope Okafor, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Mr. Tarzan Tsav, announced that investigations into the murder of the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike Ikwo, Eze Francis Igwe, have been completed, and suspects will soon face charges. He also mentioned that inquiries into the killing of the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Autonomous Community are ongoing, with assurances that those responsible will be prosecuted once the investigation concludes.

A journalist with TheCable, Olalekan Fakoyejo, has shared a disturbing account of being physically attacked by a soldier following a minor traffic disagreement in the Ogba area of Lagos State. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has sparked outrage over the conduct of military personnel in civilian settings.

Fakoyejo, who serves as Assistant Business Editor at the online news platform, recounted the events in an interview on Monday. He was traveling in a tricycle from Ikeja to Ogba when he encountered soldiers managing traffic near Pleasant Event Centre on Ajao Road.

The altercation began when a soldier ordered another tricycle driver to climb onto the roof of his vehicle as a form of punishment. Fakoyejo voiced his concern that this action was worsening the traffic situation. The soldier overheard his remark and forcibly dragged him out of the tricycle, threatening him and demanding that he report himself to other soldiers nearby.

Fakoyejo refused to comply, asserting that he had done nothing wrong and that the soldier had no authority to make such a demand. The soldier persisted in pushing him backward toward his colleagues. When a colleague approached to speak with Fakoyejo, the original soldier suddenly slapped him across the face.

An eyewitness video recorded the soldier repeatedly pushing the journalist and attempting to strike him with a cudgel picked from the ground. During the scuffle, Fakoyejo’s mobile phone fell and sustained a cracked screen.

Bystanders eventually intervened, urging the journalist to leave the area to avoid further harm. As he departed, two other soldiers approached and threatened to flog him, but onlookers appealed for calm.

Efforts to obtain a response from the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Appolonia Anele, were unsuccessful at the time of this report. The incident has raised concerns about the conduct of security personnel involved in traffic management and the need for accountability.