Politics Archives - Page 7 of 20

BREAKING: Yayi Picks APC Governorship Forms

April 28, 2026 by admin

The lawmaker representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, has obtained the ₦50 million All Progressives Congress governorship nomination forms ahead of the 2027 Ogun State election. The forms were obtained on his behalf, signalling his entry into the race for the state’s top seat. The APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, on Tuesday in Abuja, declared the process open and presented the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to Adeola’s proxy. Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, February 6, 2027. The commission also announced that party primaries, including the resolution of related disputes, will take place between April 23, 2026, and May 30, 2026. INEC further stated that campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while those for governorship and state assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026. More to come…

Faleke Picks Presidential Forms for Tinubu

April 28, 2026 by admin

The lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, James Faleke, has picked up the All Progressives Congress Expression of Interest and Nomination forms on behalf of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, on Tuesday in Abuja, declared the process open and presented the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to Faleke, who also serves as the founder of the Tinubu Support Groups. Faleke’s collection and payment for the forms, valued at N100 million on behalf of the President, formally signal the commencement of Tinubu’s bid for re-election. The Independent National Electoral Commission has scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, February 6, 2027. The commission also announced that party primaries, including the resolution of related disputes, will run from April 23, 2026, to May 30, 2026. INEC further stated that campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while those for governorship and state assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026. More details later…

JUST IN: S’West PDP Backs Makinde, Declares Loyalty To Turaki-led NWC

April 20, 2026 by admin

IBADAN — THE South West chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared its full alignment with Seyi Makinde, while reaffirming its unwavering loyalty to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) led by Aminu Turaki. The position was made known on Monday during a press conference held at the party’s zonal headquarters, Adagunodo House, in Ibadan. Speaking on behalf of the zonal leadership, the PDP South West Publicity Secretary, Sanya Atofarati, said the Zonal Executive Committee stands in solidarity with Nigerians amid prevailing economic and security challenges across the country. Atofarati noted that the party remains committed to offering what he described as a credible alternative anchored on people-oriented governance, stability, and national development. The zone also threw its weight behind Governor Makinde, commending his administration for consistent delivery of democratic dividends and dedication to strengthening democratic institutions. “The South West Zonal Executive Committee unequivocally identifies with and stands firmly behind Governor Seyi Makinde, whose leadership continues to exemplify stability, focus, and commitment to the welfare of the people,” the statement read. The party dismissed reports of an alleged impeachment plot against the governor, describing them as unfounded and a calculated attempt to create political tension. It urged Nigerians to disregard such claims. The PDP also criticised former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, over what it described as “reckless and divisive” remarks capable of inciting discord, particularly through the politicisation of traditional institutions. According to the statement, such comments are “irresponsible and self-serving” and do not reflect the position of the PDP in the South West. The party further maintained that Fayose remains expelled and should refrain from actions capable of creating friction between the Makinde administration and the Olubadan Palace. It also warned against dragging the revered Olubadan stool into partisan politics, stressing that the relationship between the monarch, Rashidi Ladoja, and Governor Makinde remains cordial. Calling for calm, the PDP urged citizens to remain vigilant and united, warning against attempts by “disgruntled political actors” to destabilise the polity for personal interests. Reaffirming its commitment to internal cohesion, the zone pledged total support for the Turaki-led NWC, emphasising the need for unity, discipline, and collective purpose within the party. The party also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their resilience and continued faith, assuring that it remains committed to providing responsible leadership and steering the country towards stability and prosperity.

Gbenga Daniel Locked Out of Ogun APC Stakeholders’ Meeting.

April 20, 2026 by admin

Former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East at the Senate, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, was reportedly denied access to the ongoing All Progressives Congress Ogun East stakeholders meeting at Adeola Odutola Hall, Ijebu Ode, on Monday. Daniel disclosed this in a viral video circulating for about one minute. The video showed the former governor addressing party supporters from his white campaign bus, branded with the OGD/PBAT Movement. Daniel said, “We are here for our Ogun East APC caucus meeting, but surprisingly, we have been barred; we are told that we can’t enter, but let it be said that whatever they do here today is null and void.” The invitation letter for the emergency stakeholders meeting sent out by the leadership of the party in Ijebu Ode included deputy governors, past and serving local government chairmen, councilors, past and serving members of both the state and National Assemblies, among others, as expected to attend.

Atiku’s Suspension Linked to “Indian Hemp Smoking,” Says Ex-SGF

April 13, 2026 by admin

Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has urged the public to ignore the alleged suspension of Atiku Abubakar, himself, and others, dismissing the group behind it as “Indian hemp smokers.” Babachir is the Vice Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, North East region. A factional chairman of ADC in the state, Raji Zumo, announced during a press conference on Monday the suspension of Atiku, Lawal and the party’s transition committee chairman, Sadiq Ibrahim. Speaking exclusively to PUNCH, Babachir said, “If some people take heavy Indian hemp, they can claim to be President of Nigeria, so don’t consider them as normal people. Indian hemp is at duty.” He said Raji has no reasonable position in the ADC that empowered him to speak on behalf of the party. “Raji’s actions demonstrated the power of Indian hemp against our young men. What is his position in the party in Adamawa State, if not influence of drugs?” he said. Also speaking, the Adamawa State Chairman of the ADC, Mr. Shehu Yohanna, said the statement credited to Raji was not only baseless but also insisted that he had left the party long ago. “Raji was my deputy, before he disappeared to an unknown place, only for him to resurface on social media on Monday, suspending our father, Atiku Abubakar,” he said. An Adamawa State High Court on Thursday suspended the ADC congresses in the state. Justice Ahmed Isa of Yola High Court No. 6, who presided over the case, ordered the suspension of the congresses slated for Thursday until the determination of the case. The court adjourned the case to April 15, 2026, for continuation of hearing. The embattled ADC chairman of the Adamawa State chapter, Shehu Yohanna, approached the court and asked it to halt the congresses due to his exclusion from the planning process. Yohanna filed the suit against Mr. Sadiq Dasin, the state chairman of the transition committee of the ADC, Adamawa State chapter. When PUNCH contacted Lawal, he denied knowledge of the court ruling. “I am in Abuja, so I don’t know about the case. Go and ask those that were in court today. I don’t know anything concerning the court case,” he said. The Adamawa State chapter of the ADC has been engulfed in crisis since last year over the leadership of the party, creating three different factions.

Easter: PDP Chieftain, Olayinka Segelu Calls on Christians to Embrace Peace, Hope, Unity, and Renewal

April 5, 2026 by admin

As Christians across Nigeria mark the Easter celebration, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and community leader, Aare Olayinka Akintola Oladimeji Segelu, has extended heartfelt Easter greetings, calling on believers to reflect deeply on the core values of faith, sacrifice, love, and unity. In his Easter message to Christians on Sunday , Chief Oladimeji described the season as a powerful reminder of hope and renewal, emphasising that the resurrection of Jesus Christ offers strength and encouragement in challenging times. “The message of Easter goes beyond festivity,” Oladimeji said. “It is a celebration of triumph over darkness, a promise that no situation is permanent, and that through faith and resilience, victory is assured.” He urged Christians to allow the lessons of Christ’s resurrection to shape their daily conduct, stressing that the values of compassion, forgiveness and selfless service should be reflected in personal and communal life. Segelu also used the occasion to call for greater unity among Nigerians, noting that the spirit of Easter calls citizens to rise above divisions and work collectively towards peace and progress. “At a time when our nation faces various challenges, may the hope and renewal symbolised by Easter inspire us to be agents of goodwill, understanding, and mutual respect,” he said. The PDP leader further encouraged believers to remain steadfast in prayer, expressing confidence that a deepened faith would foster resilience, courage, and optimism across all facets of life. He concluded by wishing Christians a peaceful, joyful and fulfilling Easter celebration, praying that the season would usher in renewed hope and lasting blessings for families and communities.

Rival Groups Clash Over Desmond’ Elliot’s Fourth-Term Bid

April 1, 2026 by admin

A coalition of stakeholders in Surulere has rejected the bid by Desmond Elliot to seek a fourth term as the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The group, under the aegis of the Surulere Accountability Forum, made its position known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos by its spokesman, Olanrewaju Badmus. Badmus said the decision followed a broad assessment of Elliot’s performance over three terms, which, according to the coalition, fell short of expectations. According to him, community leaders, youth groups, small business representatives, and civil society organisations participated in the review and collectively agreed that the constituency required a new direction. He added that after three terms in office, constituents expected clearer evidence of development and policy innovation, noting that the area continues to grapple with infrastructure decay, youth unemployment, and inadequate primary healthcare. The coalition maintained that its stance was not driven by personal bias but by a commitment to accountability and democratic principles. It stressed the need for leadership that reflects the evolving aspirations of the people and prioritises tangible outcomes. Badmus also called on residents and party stakeholders to support candidates with fresh ideas and renewed energy capable of advancing the constituency. “As stakeholders, we remain committed to promoting inclusive participation and ensuring that leadership remains responsive to the needs of the people,” he said. The development comes as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the primaries of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 general elections. However, the opposition to Elliot’s fourth-term ambition is not without contrast. Earlier, a separate group of party members and residents reportedly staged a rally in support of the lawmaker, urging party leaders to adopt him as a consensus candidate, citing what they described as his impactful representation. The emerging divide among stakeholders signals a potentially competitive race for the Surulere Constituency I seat as the election cycle approaches.

Zamfara Speaker, 12 PDP Lawmakers Defect to APC

March 23, 2026 by admin

The Speaker of the Zamfara House of Assembly, Bilyaminu Moriki, alongside 12 state assembly members, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress. The speaker announced the lawmakers’ defection during plenary in Gusau on Monday after presenting letters of resignation to the House. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the lawmakers’ defection followed the defection of Governor Dauda Lawal from the PDP to the APC. NAN also reports that the National Secretariat of the APC has scheduled Tuesday, March 24, to officially receive the governor into the party. The governor’s reception into the party will be performed by Vice President Kashim Shettima and the national leadership of the APC, alongside former governors of the state. The defecting lawmakers are expected to be formally received into the APC alongside Gov. Lawal on Tuesday. XThe governor’s reception into the party will be performed by Vice President Kashim Shettima and the national leadership of the APC, alongside former governors of the state. The defecting lawmakers are expected to be formally received into the APC alongside Gov. Lawal on Tuesday. Among the defectors are the Deputy Speaker of the House, Adamu Aliyu (Gummi II Constituency); the Majority Leader, Bello Mazawaje (Tsafe East Constituency); and the Chief Whip, Rilwanu Nagambo (Anka Constituency), among others. Moriki said the lawmakers’ unanimous decision was informed by their desire to join the governor. “It became necessary for all of us to support Governor Dauda Lawal to bring more development to the state. “We received full support from our constituencies before taking the decision to leave the PDP for the APC. “Our decision is aimed at encouraging smooth collaboration between the state and the federal governments,” he said. NAN reports that with this development, the APC now controls the Zamfara House of Assembly, with all 24 members. (NAN)

Soludo Appoints Key Officials, Special Advisers

March 23, 2026 by admin

The Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has approved a fresh appointment of key officials to serve in various capacities within the state government. These appointments, including principal secretaries and special advisers, among others, were announced in a press statement released by Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Monday. The appointees include the Head of Service, Mrs Ngozi Iwouno; Principal Secretary to the Governor, Joachim Anetoh; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Ben Nwankwo; State Chief of Protocol, Prof. Frank-Collins Okafor. Others are Attorney-General of the State, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN; Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime; Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr Vincent Okechi; and Deputy State Chief of Protocol, Ms Ngozi Okoye. Others are Special Adviser, Medicals and Pharmaceuticals, Dr Godwin Nnadozie; Special Adviser, Innovation and Business Incubation & CEO, Solution Innovation District, Ms Chinwe Okoli; Special Adviser, Special Projects and Director, Project Evaluation and Monitoring, Prof. Ebuka Nwankwo; and Special Adviser, Community Security, Ken Emeakayi. PUNCH Online earlier reported that Soludo approved the appointment of Mrs Chiamaka Nnake as the new Secretary to the State Government of Anambra State. Nnake, 39-year-old, hails from Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area of the state, is a seasoned finance and public sector professional with over 13 years of experience spanning finance, strategy development, and economic planning. She most recently served as the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in Anambra State and as Chairman of Solution Fun City Limited

Aiyedatiwa Kicks Against Court Verdict Barring Him from Another Term

March 12, 2026 by admin

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has criticised the ruling of a Federal High Court in Akure restraining him from seeking another term in office, describing the decision as premature and a distraction from governance. Aiyedatiwa spoke on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme. The governor said discussions about the 2028 off-cycle governorship election were unnecessary at this stage, noting that he had only recently secured a fresh mandate from voters in the state. “This is too early. Why don’t you wait till 2027 or when the off-cycle timetable will be out in early 2028? Maybe at that time, I might begin to think, wait a minute, do I have the right to contest or not? “At that time, one can begin to seek interpretation of some of these clauses in the constitution,” he said. Aiyedatiwa said his focus remained on delivering the mandate given to him in the November 16, 2024 governorship election. “I went into a free and fair, conclusive election, which I won on the 16th of November 2024, so it is still fresh. I have never thought about any other election other than delivering on the mandate that has been given to me. “Future elections were not in my mind at all because you have to go step by step, stage by stage,” he stated. The governor added that although he was aware of the constitutional provision limiting a governor’s tenure to eight years, he had not begun considering how it might apply to him. “I know the constitutional provision of eight years, but I have not even gone into that because I just won an election. All I was occupied with was to govern and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people until somebody woke up and began to challenge it,” he said. He also described the suit as a distraction following the political challenges he had faced. “You ask how I feel. I feel the same way. This distraction will be put to rest because it is a whole lot of distraction for me, having gone through election and survived impeachment,” he added. Responding to insinuations surrounding the suit, Aiyedatiwa dismissed claims that he was engaged in a political witch-hunt or forcing members out of the All Progressives Congress. According to him, the party remains dominant in Ondo State, adding that politics is ultimately “a game of numbers.” Earlier on Thursday, a Federal High Court sitting in Akure ruled that the governor would be ineligible to contest for another term in office in 2028. The suit was filed by a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Akin Egbuwalo, who asked the court to interpret Section 137(3) of the Constitution regarding the eligibility of Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Olayide Adelami, to contest for another term. The defendants in the suit included the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Aiyedatiwa, Adelami and the APC. In a judgment delivered by Justice Toyin Adegoke, the court held that Aiyedatiwa would be ineligible to stand for election in 2028, having been sworn in on December 27, 2023, to complete the tenure of the late governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and subsequently inaugurated on February 24, 2025, after winning the November 16, 2024, governorship election. The judge declared that the 1999 Constitution (as amended) does not permit an elected president, vice-president, governor or deputy governor to spend more than eight years in office. The court relied on the decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Marwa v. Nyako.