Category: News

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has refuted allegations that it imposed candidates during its recent primary elections across various constituencies.

In a statement released on Thursday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, clarified that all aspirants were received by the party, given attention, and directed to engage with appropriate leaders and grassroots stakeholders in their respective states.

Director emphasized that the NDC operates under an established stakeholder leadership structure that includes caucus heads in every state of the federation. He reiterated the party’s commitment to principles of leadership, consultation, inclusiveness, and consensus-building.

He further stressed the party’s dedication to encouraging women’s participation in elective offices, noting that this has been implemented in several instances. “At no time has the NDC National Secretariat been involved in picking, choosing, or imposing candidates on any constituency or state,” Director stated.

The party acknowledged reports of some aspirants prematurely declaring themselves as candidates and complaints raised concerning certain aspects of the process. According to Director, these issues have been brought to the attention of the appeal panel and party leadership, and have already been addressed.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has disclosed that more than half of its aspirants for the 2027 general elections were chosen through consensus agreements. This statement was made by the party’s national spokesman, Osa Director, during an interview on Arise Television on Thursday.

Director emphasized that the NDC is committed to fostering a transparent and inclusive democratic process, distinguishing itself from traditional political practices. He noted that some individuals are attempting to undermine the party’s progress by claiming the NDC is no different from other political entities.

“Over 50% of NDC candidates emerged through consensus,” Director stated. “The NDC will conduct itself in a manner that breaks away from business as usual. That is our promise to Nigerians.” He further explained that the party is attracting numerous supporters, but only some will ultimately be chosen, which may lead to disappointment among those not selected. However, he assured that no one is rejected in the NDC.

Drawing an analogy, Director described the NDC as a “political Noah’s Ark,” serving as a vehicle to transform Nigeria into a place of salvation, progress, and inclusive development. The party aims to embrace a new era of growth and opportunity for all citizens.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially rejected a document claiming to list its senatorial candidates for upcoming elections, labeling it as entirely fraudulent. The party, through its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, released a statement clarifying that the so-called “Concluded List of APC Senatorial Candidates So Far” was never issued by the party.

Morka emphasized that no such list has been released and warned the public against spreading unverified information that could mislead party members and the general populace. The statement explicitly declared the list as fake and unauthorised.

The APC urged all stakeholders, including party loyalists, media houses, and the public at large, to completely disregard the publication. It highlighted that only the National Working Committee (NWC) holds the authority to announce candidates, which must be done through official channels after primary elections and other constitutional procedures.

The ruling party expressed deep concern that false information of this nature could sow confusion and erode trust in its internal democratic processes. The statement appealed to all members and stakeholders to abstain from circulating unverified content that might damage the party’s integrity.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially launched appeal panels to address complaints arising from its recently held presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state legislative primaries. This move aims to enhance transparency, fairness, and internal democracy within the party’s candidate selection process.

In a statement released on Thursday by National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed, the party confirmed that these panels will review grievances from aspirants and stakeholders who are dissatisfied with the primary outcomes. The committees are tasked with examining appeals and providing recommendations aligned with the PDP’s constitution, electoral guidelines, and relevant legal provisions.

“The appeal panels will hear and review appeals from contestants and stakeholders who are dissatisfied with the outcome of the primaries. They will also make recommendations in line with the party’s Constitution, Electoral Guidelines and relevant provisions of the law,” Mohammed stated.

He emphasized that this initiative underscores the PDP’s commitment to a credible and transparent candidate selection process ahead of upcoming elections. Mohammed disclosed that the party’s National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, will head the panel overseeing governorship and presidential primary disputes, with former National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu serving as a member.

Additionally, the spokesman revealed that Suleiman Afolagbe will chair the panel responsible for appeals related to state assembly and National Assembly primaries. The nine-member legislative panel is scheduled to convene on June 8 and June 9 at the National Working Committee (NWC) Hall in the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. Meanwhile, the 24-member governorship and presidential panel will begin its sittings on June 10 at the same venue.

A faction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State has appealed to the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Abubakar Malami, to pick his deputy from Kebbi South Senatorial District. The group, called the Kebbi ADC Unity Forum, specifically proposed Paul Gambo Tase for the number two position, emphasizing that this would ensure fairness, inclusivity, and regional equilibrium within the party.

Garba Abdulkareem, the forum’s coordinator, issued a statement on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi, explaining that Tase, a former Labour Party gubernatorial candidate and native of Kebbi South, brings substantial experience and competence to the role. Abdulkareem noted that since Malami hails from Kebbi Central, the deputy slot should logically be zoned to Kebbi South to maintain balance.

The forum described itself as a coalition of party members, professionals, community leaders, youth, and women united in strengthening ADC’s chances in the state. According to the group, Tase has expressed readiness to serve if selected by the party leadership. Tase, a retired economist who worked with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), previously contested the 2023 governorship election under the Labour Party in Kebbi State.

Malami, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, recently secured the ADC governorship ticket for the 2027 elections. The forum’s call aligns with ongoing consultations aimed at boosting the party’s electoral prospects through strategic ticket balancing.

A recently surfaced video appears to contradict the denial made by House Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese regarding his endorsement of Ikenga Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. The footage, made public by Ugochinyere, shows Agbese putting pen to paper on two separate forms on May 21, 2026.

During Thursday’s plenary session, Agbese had raised a point of privilege, claiming his signature had been forged on a document that nominated Ugochinyere—a lawmaker from the Action People’s Party (APP)—for the Minority Leader post. He argued that the publication of the document with his purported endorsement violated his privileges as a member of the Minority Caucus.

The controversy erupted after 61 members of the Minority Caucus reportedly signed to back Ugochinyere’s candidacy. Agbese, however, maintained that he never authorized the use of his name. In response, Ugochinyere released the video evidence, which he says proves Agbese willingly signed the endorsement forms, directly challenging the forgery allegation.

The video has since sparked reactions within political circles, with many calling for a transparent resolution to the dispute. The incident underscores the ongoing jostling for leadership positions within the House’s minority bloc.

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has made it clear that he feels no shame in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term. Speaking at a gathering organized by the Tinubu Support Organisation in Birnin Kebbi, the governor addressed critics who questioned his vocal backing of the president. He argued that such criticisms come from people unfamiliar with the realities on the ground in Kebbi.

Idris pointed to ongoing federal projects in the state as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to the region. “The president truly cares for Kebbi and its people,” he said. According to the governor, these developmental efforts are the reason he remains steadfast in his support. “Democracy is about delivering tangible benefits to the people,” he added.

The governor also recalled that Kebbi was the first state in the country to formally endorse Tinubu for a second term, with thousands of residents gathering at the Haliru Abdu Stadium last year to show their support. He described Tinubu as his leader and mentor, emphasizing that his administration will continue to back initiatives that foster growth in Kebbi and Nigeria at large.

Idris dismissed a viral clip questioning why he is at the forefront of the re-election campaign, noting that the person behind it is not from Kebbi. “We support the president 100 percent,” he declared, reaffirming his unwavering loyalty.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, is scheduled to deliver the convocation lecture at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) this Saturday. The event will take place at the university’s New Convocation Arena in Choba, Rivers State, starting at 10 a.m.

Lere Olayinka, the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, released a statement on Thursday confirming the engagement. Wike will address the audience on the theme “Leadership and Infrastructure Development in Nigeria: Lessons for Future Leaders.”

An invitation letter dated April 20, 2026, from UNIPORT’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Owunari A. Georgewill, extended the request. The VC noted that the lecture provides a platform for distinguished individuals to engage graduates and the academic community on topics crucial to national development, leadership, and society’s future.

The letter stated, “Your Excellency’s distinguished record of service, exemplary leadership, and enduring contributions to governance and infrastructure exemplify visionary statesmanship. We believe your presence will honor your alma mater and strengthen the link between leadership, scholarship, and national progress.”

Wike accepted the invitation through a letter from his Chief of Staff, Chidi Amadi, dated April 23, 2026. The acceptance letter explained that the topic selection stems from the minister’s belief that effective leadership must produce tangible results, especially through critical infrastructure and social services that improve citizens’ lives.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has raised a red flag for 148 communities spread across 17 local government areas in Jigawa State, warning that they are highly susceptible to flooding during the 2026 rainy season. This alert came during a disaster preparedness meeting held in Dutse, as part of a nationwide effort to bolster resilience against natural calamities.

Speaking on behalf of NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar, the North-West Zonal Director Aliyu Shehu pointed out that settlements located near rivers and waterways face a significant danger of inundation. He urged residents to adopt preventive steps before the peak of the rainfall season arrives.

The gathering, held under the banner “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria,” attracted representatives from emergency response bodies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders. Their objective was to explore ways to reduce the impact of possible disasters.

NEMA issued practical advice to those living in high-risk zones: relocate if necessary, ensure drainage channels remain unblocked, and stay updated on weather alerts and official announcements. The agency also emphasized the importance of knowing evacuation routes and emergency procedures.

According to NEMA, flood events rank among the most devastating natural hazards in Nigeria, causing deaths, displacement, ruin of homes and farmlands, and damage to public infrastructure. The agency reiterated that early action and public awareness are vital to cutting disaster-related losses.

The Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hannafi Yakubu, assured locals that the state is ready to handle emergencies. He announced that 20 speedboats have been set aside for evacuation and rescue missions in susceptible communities. Additionally, Yakubu confirmed that relief supplies, including food and essential goods, have been prepared to support flood victims.

Officials from the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency reported that efforts to desilt drains and carry out environmental sanitation are being scaled up across the state. These measures aim to improve water flow and lower the chances of urban flooding.

Participants at the session stressed the need for enhanced early warning systems, greater community awareness, better environmental stewardship, and well-coordinated emergency responses to tackle the looming flood threats.

Resident doctors at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, commenced a three-day warning strike on Thursday, June 4, 2026, following a recent theft and security breach within the hospital grounds. The industrial action was declared by Dr. Olanipekun Arise-Kola, President of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at FMC Abeokuta, during an emergency general meeting held on the same day.

In a communiqué signed by Dr. Arise-Kola and the Assistant General Secretary, Olufemi Alawode, the doctors expressed their unanimous decision to temporarily withdraw services as a protest against what they termed persistent security failures that endanger healthcare workers’ lives and property. The statement highlighted a specific incident at the House Officers’ Quarters, where five mobile phones, one laptop, cash, and a driver’s licence were stolen.

The communiqué read: “The Association of Resident Doctors at FMC Abeokuta formally brings to Management’s attention the grave concerns of its members regarding the recent security breach and theft at the House Officers’ Quarters. During this unfortunate event, several valuable belongings were taken, including five mobile phones, a laptop, cash, and a driver’s licence.”

It further stated: “This occurrence has intensified long-standing concerns about inadequate security on the premises. After an emergency meeting, members unanimously agreed that the current security situation poses a significant threat to their safety and property. Accordingly, members have resolved to undertake a three-day warning strike from June 4 to June 6, 2026, demanding that Management provide immediate, satisfactory assurances on implementing concrete security measures.”

Among the doctors’ demands are the replacement of stolen items by management, replacement of the current security firm with a more competent one, installation of adequate lighting across the hospital, deployment of CCTV cameras at key locations, provision of armed security personnel, and establishment of a functional police post near the quarters. The association reiterated its commitment to a cordial relationship with management but stressed that worker safety must be a top priority.