Category: News

Kelechi Anosike emerged victorious in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) primary election for Abia State’s governorship race held on Sunday. The primary, which took place across all 184 electoral wards in the state, was supervised by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigerian Police Force, and other security agencies.

Anosike garnered a total of 16,543 votes, significantly outpacing his closest rival, former Commissioner for Information John Okiyi Kalu, who received 3,145 votes. Former Deputy Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Olugu Kalu Ugba, secured 961 votes.

The results were announced by the PDP chairman in Abia State, Abraham Amah, at the party headquarters in Umuahia, with the endorsement of the PDP electoral committee led by Chris Nnadi. Amah noted that while five wards failed to submit their results, the data from the remaining 179 wards provided a clear mandate.

In his remarks after the win, Anosike asserted that Abia is a state rich in resources but suffers from poor governance. He vowed to transform the state into an agricultural and industrial powerhouse and called on PDP members to unite behind him to reclaim the Government House in Umuahia in the 2027 elections.

President Bola Tinubu has pledged to take decisive steps to safeguard Nigerians, despite ongoing security concerns across the nation. The president made this commitment during his acceptance address at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, after being elected as the presidential flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tinubu acknowledged that security challenges still persist in several parts of the country. He assured citizens that his administration treats the protection of lives and property as a top priority. The government has intensified initiatives to bolster the security apparatus, including equipping the military and police, fostering stronger ties with local communities, and increasing investments in intelligence, surveillance, and modern equipment. Additionally, efforts are underway to tackle the underlying causes of insecurity.

Tinubu expressed readiness to support constitutional amendments by the National Assembly to establish state police, calling it a national emergency. He declared that the government will persist until peace and stability are restored throughout the nation. His vision is a Nigeria where all citizens can live, work, and dream without fear.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has officially declared its support for President Bola Tinubu’s reelection campaign in the 2027 presidential race. This decision comes after a thorough and impartial evaluation of the political landscape, with the group asserting that backing Tinubu aligns with the collective interests of the Igbo people.

Ohanaeze emphasized that this strategic move is designed to position the South-East region for the vice presidential slot in 2031 under the All Progressives Congress (APC). The organization believes that by rallying behind Tinubu now, the Igbo nation can secure meaningful participation in federal governance and benefit from ongoing national projects.

The endorsement reinforces agreements made earlier in January 2026 during meetings involving the South-East Governors’ Forum, former governors, and current ministers from the region. A key aspect of these accords is that no Igbo candidate, including Peter Obi, should contest against President Tinubu in the upcoming election.

In a statement released on Sunday and signed by Deputy President-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesperson Chief Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze explained that this calculated restraint allows the federal government to finish infrastructure initiatives, create additional states in the South-East, and implement policies that drive economic growth in the area.

The group congratulated President Tinubu on his victory in the APC presidential primaries and also praised South-East governors who secured reelection, with special recognition for Rt. Hon. Kingsley O. Chinda of Rivers State for winning the APC gubernatorial ticket.

Ohanaeze noted that strategic discussions have already begun with key political figures, including the Presidency, to ensure that after Tinubu’s tenure ends in 2031, a dedicated Igbo leader becomes Vice President. Potential candidates of high caliber mentioned include Senator Dave Nweze Umahi and Chimaroke Nnamani.

The organization stressed that achieving this historic objective requires overwhelming Igbo support for Tinubu in 2027, thereby consolidating political influence and securing tangible returns for the South-East region.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a plea for tranquility and togetherness among its presidential hopefuls, party officials, and supporters as the party prepares for its upcoming presidential selection process, set to take place Monday.

In a message delivered Sunday from Abuja, the party’s national publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, emphasized that this selection marks a pivotal moment for both the party and Nigerians who are searching for a more promising political alternative.

Abdullahi highlighted that the ADC remains the sole genuinely democratic party in Nigeria, as it is the only one that picks its presidential nominee through a transparent, open primary system. He noted that the behavior of members throughout the process will showcase the type of leadership culture the party aims to foster.

“We call on all aspirants, their backers, delegates, and loyal party members to act peacefully, with responsibility and dignity during every stage of this exercise,” he stated. “This election must mirror the principles we claim to uphold—transparency, internal democracy, national cohesion, and respect for the law.”

While acknowledging that political disagreements are natural, Abdullahi stressed that the primary objective should be rebuilding Nigeria and renewing public trust in leadership. “When this process concludes, there will be no victors or losers within the ADC family. Our mutual aim is to come out stronger, more united, and ready to offer Nigerians the capable and trustworthy leadership they need,” he added.

The party also reassured its members that comprehensive measures have been implemented to guarantee that the primaries are free, equitable, transparent, and credible. “History will judge us not only by who emerges as our candidate but by how we carry ourselves in this crucial moment. We urge every member of our party to step up and meet this challenge,” the statement concluded.

A prominent figure within the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Toyin Amuzu, has thrown his weight behind Oladipupo Adebutu, the party’s governorship candidate for the 2027 elections, praising him as a leader of exceptional integrity and skill.

Amuzu, who is also the PDP’s House of Representatives candidate for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, emphasized that Adebutu is among the most seasoned and well-prepared politicians ready to guide the state during this crucial period. He noted that Adebutu’s dedication to public welfare, approachability, and profound grasp of statecraft make him the ideal candidate for the people of Ogun.

In his remarks, Amuzu highlighted Adebutu’s unwavering integrity, humility, and proven leadership devoid of any taint of deception. He pointed out that Adebutu has consistently used his personal resources to better the lives of citizens and remains deeply committed to the state’s advancement.

The party stalwart described Adebutu as a genuine native of Ogun whose legacy and contributions to the state’s progress are widely recognized. He stressed that Ogun needs a leader who embodies credibility, honesty, and a transparent development agenda, qualities Adebutu fully possesses as a true indigene capable of revitalizing the state both economically and socially.

Amuzu argued that effective leadership must be anchored in truth, competence, and empathy. He stated that Adebutu has demonstrated over time his awareness of the people’s challenges and has the expertise to deliver workable solutions.

He further expressed confidence in the PDP, calling it a party dedicated to people-focused governance and democratic principles. Amuzu urged all party members and Ogun residents to rally behind Adebutu’s candidacy to secure victory in the 2027 gubernatorial election. He expressed optimism that the PDP would provide purposeful leadership to tackle unemployment, insecurity, and economic difficulties facing the populace.

A socio-political organization in Imo State, the Ohaji Patriotic Forum (OPF), has officially petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at both state and national levels. The group is raising concerns about what it describes as a long-standing exclusion of the Ohaji bloc from the House of Representatives position since 1999.

In an open letter signed by its National Chairman, Mazi Bethel Nwanorim, and Secretary, Christopher Ekeocha, the forum called for immediate intervention to address what they perceive as an injustice in the recently concluded APC primary for the Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, and Oru West Federal Constituency. The group argues that the current political developments threaten the established zoning and rotational agreement that has ensured peace, fairness, and political balance among the four blocs in the constituency.

The OPF expressed dismay that despite an existing mutual understanding on rotational representation, the Ohaji bloc is allegedly being denied the chance to produce the APC candidate for the federal seat. The forum pointed out that the Ohaji people have waited patiently since 1999 for their turn, and this alleged denial is deeply painful and regrettable.

The letter highlighted that Ohaji has remained a loyal and steadfast supporter of Governor Uzodinma and the APC, demonstrating unwavering commitment during elections. It is disheartening, the OPF said, that the same people who have been loyal are now raising concerns about marginalization and political exclusion.

The forum also referenced an alleged written agreement between Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu and the leadership of Ogbako Ohaji, entered into before the 2023 elections, which reportedly outlined the rotational arrangement. The OPF criticized the reported attempt by a serving National Assembly member to disregard that agreement, which it described as a betrayal of trust, integrity, and honor. The group warned that undermining such agreements erodes public confidence in political leadership and democratic values, sending the wrong message to younger generations.

Despite their grievances, the forum commended Governor Uzodinma for his developmental strides and infrastructural achievements across the state. They appealed to him, President Tinubu, and APC leaders to ensure that justice, fairness, and equity prevail in this matter. The OPF maintained that the Ohaji people remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic processes, urging all stakeholders to act responsibly to preserve unity and political stability within the constituency.

The forum concluded with a passionate appeal for the leadership to uphold the zoning understanding and grant the Ohaji bloc the opportunity they believe rightfully belongs to them. They encouraged the sons and daughters of Ohaji to remain peaceful, united, and steadfast in pursuing justice through lawful and democratic means, expressing confidence that the APC leadership will act in the interest of fairness, equity, and enduring peace.

After the conclusion of the All Progressives Congress presidential primary, aspirant Stanley Osifo has extended his warm congratulations to winner Bola Tinubu. In a display of sportsmanship, Osifo acknowledged Tinubu’s victory following the announcement of the final results.

Osifo, who put up a strong challenge in several states, recorded impressive vote counts in Niger (5,248), Kano (2,675), and Lagos (1,186), among others. Despite his efforts, Tinubu secured a landslide win with over 10.99 million votes, far surpassing Osifo’s 16,504 votes.

The party now looks ahead to the general elections, where Tinubu will represent the APC against candidates from other political parties. Osifo’s gracious concession highlights unity within the party as preparations for the main contest intensify.

A warm and unexpected moment unfolded at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja when President Bola Tinubu affectionately referred to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as ‘landlord’. The exchange, which was captured on video, took place on Sunday as President Tinubu arrived from Lagos.

According to sources, Wike was among several government officials who had gathered at the airport to welcome the President back to Abuja. In the footage, Tinubu can be heard greeting the former Rivers State governor with the words, ‘Landlord, you are back?’

This lighthearted comment comes after Wike spent time in Port Harcourt overseeing the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Rivers State. His role in ensuring that his loyalists secured victory in the internal party elections has been widely reported.

The video of the interaction has since gone viral, sparking reactions across social media platforms. Many have noted the camaraderie between the two political figures, with some interpreting the ‘landlord’ remark as a nod to Wike’s influential position within the FCT and the broader political landscape.

President Bola Tinubu has openly admitted that the economic reforms implemented by his administration have caused considerable hardship for the people of Nigeria. Moreover, he revealed that these challenges have also affected him personally, leading to sleepless nights and weight loss.

In a speech delivered shortly after his victory was announced, Tinubu praised the national chairman of the electoral committee and the entire team for their hard work, acknowledging the demanding nature of the process and its impact on all participants.

He expressed gratitude to Nigerians from all walks of life for their steadfast support and sacrifices. “You’ve given me encouragement. Sometimes it is difficult and I shared the pain with you. I know what it takes to reform this economy that was in tatters. If you lost sleep, I lost some too. If you have lost weight, I think I have lost some too,” he stated.

“But I’ve always remembered one thing that year 2022, I asked for this job and you all supported me and I got it so I must do it,” he added.

Rights organizations and legal advocates in Niger State are sounding the alarm over what they describe as an alarming increase in child abuse cases. The chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Niger, Bolanle Jibogun, has called on parents to be more vigilant about their children’s safety and whereabouts. This plea came after FIDA marked Children’s Day 2026 with special needs children at the Farid Centre in Minna.

Jibogun explained that the group intentionally chose to celebrate with children living with disabilities ahead of the official date because this year’s Children’s Day coincides with the Sallah holiday. “We wanted to send a message that every child matters and deserves equal affection, attention, and protection, no matter their abilities,” she stated.

Although FIDA typically visits government-run facilities, the organization opted for the privately owned Farid Centre this time to ensure those children felt valued and included in the festivities. Jibogun lamented that child abuse cases are on the rise, with many incidents perpetrated by individuals known to the victims. “Parents must always monitor where their children are because most abuse occurs at home, committed by people the children trust. Such cases need to be reported, and nobody should hesitate to speak out,” she added.

Amina Jumai Gimba, Proprietor and Co-founder of Farid Centre, described the FIDA visit as uplifting and empowering for the children. She urged parents not to view children with special needs as burdens but as divine gifts requiring love, care, and opportunities to nurture their talents. Gimba emphasized that her dedication to these children stems from a natural compassion, not personal experience with a special needs child.

Hassana Maiyaki, an Investigation Officer with the National Human Rights Commission representing the State Coordinator Dr. Nuhu Mohammed, noted that the commission works closely with Farid Centre and FIDA to advocate for women’s and children’s rights. She condemned the persistent abuse of children, calling them society’s most vulnerable members who cannot defend themselves. “Children require guidance and protection from parents, the community, and the government. Harming a child is illegal. Every child is entitled to healthcare, shelter, and education,” she said.

The Director General of the Niger State Child Rights Agency, Ulmulkatum Mohammed, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to shielding children from all forms of rights violations. She assured that the organization is always prepared to uphold children’s rights and ensure justice when abuse occurs, expressing joy at celebrating the day with the children at the center.