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  • NDC Fixes May 9 for First National Convention in Abuja Amid 2027 Talks

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced plans to hold its first national convention in Abuja on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

    The party disclosed this in a statement released on Friday by its National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, through the party’s official 𝕏 page.

    Delegates Invited to Abuja Gathering

    According to the statement, delegates from across the country have been invited to attend the convention, which is expected to bring together party members and major stakeholders.

    The event will hold at the Los Angeles Event Centre along Ahmadu Bello Way in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and is scheduled to begin by 10 a.m.

    “The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) welcomes all delegates to its inaugural national convention holding on Saturday, 9th May 2026, at Los Angeles Event Centre, Ahmadu Bello Way, FCT Abuja, by 10 a.m.,” the statement read.

    The party also stated that preparations for the convention had been completed, urging delegates to arrive early for the commencement of activities.

    Party Speaks on Jonathan Speculations

    Meanwhile, the NDC has denied reports linking the party to an alleged agreement with former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party insisted that consultations regarding its presidential ticket were still ongoing and that no final decision had been reached.

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the Deputy National Spokesman of the party, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, said the NDC had neither zoned its presidential ticket nor entered into any arrangement with Jonathan.

    “The NDC is a party that believes in merging ideas and consultations across boards,” he said.

    “I can categorically tell you that we have not zoned the presidential ticket. Consultations are still ongoing since politics is a dynamic game.”

    2027 Political Activities Gather Momentum

    The latest development comes as political consultations and alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to intensify across major parties in Nigeria.

    The NDC’s inaugural convention is expected to shape key discussions around the party’s structure, strategy, and possible presidential direction ahead of the next election cycle.

     

  • Rufai Oseni Questions Jonathan’s Capacity Amid Fresh 2027 Presidential Calls

    Veteran broadcaster Rufai Oseni has questioned whether former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan still has the capacity to revive Nigeria’s struggling economy amid renewed calls for his possible return to power ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Speaking during a viral edition of his QuickTakes programme on Arise TV, Rufai said Jonathan has every constitutional right to contest again, but insisted Nigerians must honestly assess whether the former president can handle the country’s current economic realities.

    Rufai Questions Jonathan’s Readiness

    “Dear President Jonathan, do you really, really think you have what it takes to be able to revamp the ailing economy?” Rufai asked during the broadcast.

    The media personality noted that many of the same political actors now urging Jonathan to contest were among those who strongly criticised his administration before the 2015 election.

    He questioned why the former president was once seen as unfit to lead Nigeria, but is now being projected by some groups as a possible solution to the nation’s problems.

    “But the question is, for those that have touted Jonathan to run, these were the same people that said a lot of things about him in 2015,” he said.

    Peter Obi Mentioned in Political Speculations

    Rufai also referenced political speculations suggesting Jonathan’s possible return could affect the support base of Labour Party figure Peter Obi if he eventually joins the presidential race.

    According to the broadcaster, some political observers believe influential figures may be considering Jonathan as a strategy to divide Obi’s supporters because of the former president’s popularity among many Nigerians.

    Concerns Over Economy and Governance

    The journalist went further to highlight Nigeria’s worsening economic and social conditions, including forex instability, rising poverty, corruption, and challenges within the oil sector.

    He stressed that the country currently needs energetic leadership capable of tackling multiple national crises at the same time.

    “An economy that over 63% of people live in abject poverty. An economy that needs a lot of vigour. An economy that needs to fight corruption,” Rufai stated.

    He also mentioned lingering issues surrounding Nigeria’s refineries and ongoing efforts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to rehabilitate them.

    Legal Questions May Surface

    Rufai additionally pointed to recent court rulings concerning eligibility for individuals who have previously taken the presidential oath twice, suggesting legal debates may also emerge if Jonathan eventually decides to contest.

    Ending his remarks, the broadcaster directly addressed the former president, saying: “Good luck, Ebele Jonathan. You’ve always had luck following you. Mr President, can you do it?”

  • Amaechi Joins 2027 Presidential Race as Ex-Rivers Governor Picks ADC Nomination Form

    Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has officially entered the 2027 presidential race after obtaining the nomination form of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Amaechi, who also served as Minister of Transportation under former President Muhammadu Buhari, disclosed that the form was purchased on his behalf on Friday at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

    Oyegun Leads Form Collection

    The nomination form was obtained by former Edo State Governor and senior ADC chieftain, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

    ADC Deputy National Organising Secretary, Atiku Mohammed, presented the forms to representatives of the former Rivers governor during the exercise in Abuja.

    With the move, Amaechi has now become the second aspirant to formally join the ADC presidential contest ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    ADC Presidential Race Expands

    Businessman and politician Mohammed Hayatu-Deen had earlier secured both the expression of interest and nomination forms, becoming the first aspirant in the race.

    Amaechi’s entry is expected to further intensify political discussions within the opposition party as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

    Party Crisis and Defections

    The ADC has recently battled internal leadership crises and several court cases, creating uncertainty within the party.

    The crisis reportedly contributed to the exit of some notable politicians, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who later moved to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    However, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi insisted that the defections were planned long before the party’s internal disputes escalated.

    ADC Speaks on 2027 Elections

    Despite the lingering legal battles and internal wrangling, ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark has assured party members that the party would participate fully in the 2027 general elections.

    Amaechi’s latest move now places him among the early political figures positioning ahead of what is expected to be another fiercely contested presidential election cycle in Nigeria.

  • 2027: NDC Breaks Silence on Alleged Jonathan Presidential Pact

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed reports linking the party to an alleged agreement with former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party said consultations regarding its presidential ticket were still ongoing and no final decision had been reached.

    NDC denies zoning presidential ticket

    Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, the party’s Deputy National Spokesman, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, stated that the NDC had neither zoned its presidential ticket nor entered into any pact with Jonathan.

    “The NDC is a party that believes in merging ideas and consultations across boards,” he said.

    “I can categorically tell you that we have not zoned the presidential ticket. Consultations are still ongoing since politics is a dynamic game.”

    His remarks come amid growing speculation that the former president could emerge as a consensus candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    ‘High-profile politicians joining party’

    Abdulsalam disclosed that the NDC was already attracting interest from several influential political figures across different parties, including members of the ruling APC.

    According to him, former governors, ex-ministers and lawmakers are making moves towards the party ahead of the next election cycle.

    “As I speak to you, we are still expecting high-profile personalities, including former governors, ex-ministers, serving and former lawmakers, even from the ruling party,” he said.

    “The NDC is the beautiful bride that everybody wants to have right now.”

    Party reacts to Jonathan rumours

    Reacting directly to reports surrounding Jonathan, Abdulsalam described the claims as speculation without any formal backing from the party leadership.

    “This is another rumour making the rounds that former President Jonathan wants to pitch his tent in our party,” he stated.

    “There is no concrete move like that in the hierarchy of our party, and such a decision has not been taken.”

    Despite the denial, the spokesman noted that Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to contest if he decides to return to active politics.

    “But I can tell you that everything is still possible in the case of former President Jonathan,” he added.

    “He is a Nigerian who is eminently qualified to fly the flag of the party on any platform of his choice. But as of today, we have no pact with him.”

  • Senate Drama: Oshiomhole Demands Akpabio’s Resignation Over Leadership Rule Clash

    There was fresh drama in the Senate after Senator Adams Oshiomhole publicly called for the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following a heated clash over controversial amendments to the Senate Standing Rules.

    The confrontation, which unfolded during plenary on May 6, 2026, exposed growing tensions within the Red Chamber ahead of the 2027 political cycle.

    Controversial amendment sparks uproar

    The crisis began after the Senate amended portions of its Standing Orders, particularly Orders 4 and 5, to tighten eligibility for key leadership positions.

    Under the amendment, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately before an election would qualify to contest for positions such as Senate President, Deputy Senate President and other principal offices.

    The move effectively shut out first-term lawmakers and several incoming politicians believed to be eyeing leadership positions in the proposed 11th Senate.

    Critics within the chamber reportedly viewed the amendment as an attempt to protect certain political interests ahead of 2027.

    Akpabio, Oshiomhole clash during plenary

    Tension escalated when Oshiomhole repeatedly raised a point of order during the adoption of votes and proceedings, insisting that the records did not accurately reflect agreements reached during a closed-door session.

    Akpabio ruled him out of order, switched off his microphone and warned him against disrupting proceedings.

    “Senator Oshiomhole, for the last time, if you become unruly in this Senate, we will use the same rules to remove you from the Senate,” Akpabio reportedly said.

    Despite the warning, Oshiomhole persisted, leading to a tense exchange before other lawmakers intervened.

    Oshiomhole attacks Akpabio’s leadership

    Speaking after plenary, Oshiomhole criticised Akpabio’s handling of the amendment process and accused him of running the Senate in an autocratic manner.

    The former Edo State governor reportedly called on Akpabio to resign, describing the process that led to the amendment as flawed and rushed.

    He also argued that lawmakers were denied the opportunity for extensive debate before the controversial changes were adopted.

    Senate reverses amendment

    Amid mounting backlash and constitutional concerns, the Senate later rescinded the controversial amendment and reverted to the previous rules.

    Lawmakers argued that parts of the new provisions could conflict with the 1999 Constitution, particularly Section 52.

    The development has further highlighted growing political tensions within the ruling APC and renewed speculation over succession battles ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Senate Reverses Controversial Rule Amendment After Oshiomhole-Akpabio Clash

    The Senate on Thursday reversed its earlier amendment to key sections of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 after concerns emerged that the changes could conflict with the 1999 Constitution.

    The reversal followed a heated controversy that had rocked the red chamber over eligibility rules for principal leadership positions.

    Senate retreats after constitutional concerns

    Lawmakers rescinded the amendments to Orders 2(2) and 3(1), restoring the previous provisions.

    The earlier amendment had restricted principal offices to senators serving at least a second term, effectively shutting out potential contenders in the incoming 11th National Assembly expected to commence in June 2027.

    Among those believed to be affected were Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Hope Uzodimma and Kabiru Marafa.

    Oshiomhole, Akpabio clash over amendment

    The controversy intensified on Wednesday after Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole clashed during plenary.

    Oshiomhole repeatedly attempted to raise a point of order while Akpabio was reading the Votes and Proceedings, prompting warnings from the Senate President.

    At one point, Akpabio threatened to order Oshiomhole out of the chamber if he continued disrupting proceedings.

    Despite the tension, the Senate initially went ahead with the amendment.

    Senate Leader moves rescission motion

    During Thursday’s plenary, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion to reverse the changes, arguing that fresh constitutional reviews revealed possible conflicts with Section 52 of the Constitution.

    “Certain provisions introduced under Order 2 Subsection 2 and Order 3 Subsection 1 may give rise to constitutional inconsistencies,” he said.

    Bamidele added that the Senate retained the authority to revisit and correct earlier decisions in order to protect parliamentary integrity.

    Barau backs reversal

    Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, described the motion as necessary and straightforward.

    “This is just for us to go in conformity with the constitution,” Barau said.

    He commended the Senate Leader for quickly identifying the issue before it escalated further.

    Oshiomhole faults rushed process

    Reacting after the reversal, Oshiomhole criticised the process that led to the initial amendment.

    “The way we rushed the rules because certain people wanted certain things concluded is one flaw to this process,” he said.

    He urged the Senate to allow more robust debates before taking major decisions in the future.

    Bamidele, however, cautioned senators against turning legislative proceedings into unnecessary drama, insisting that disruptions during previous sittings overshadowed important parliamentary business.

  • Bello El-Rufai Dumps APC for ADC as Reps Announce Fresh Wave of Defections

    Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    The development was formally announced on Thursday during plenary at the House of Representatives.

    Speaker reads defection letters

    Speaker Abbas Tajudeen disclosed that Bello El-Rufai joined the ADC alongside two lawmakers from Kaduna State.

    They include Reps Umar Ajilo and Suleiman Yahaya Richifa, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The announcements were made as part of official communications at the resumption of plenary.

    More lawmakers switch parties

    The Speaker also confirmed the defection of Kamilu Ado, a Kano lawmaker, from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Similarly, Rep Joshua Obika, representing AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the FCT, resigned from the APC and joined the NDC.

    Reasons behind defections

    The lawmakers cited internal crises and uncertainty within their former parties as key reasons for their decisions.

    The latest moves reflect ongoing political realignments ahead of future elections, with shifting alliances across major parties.

  • Tinubu Approves Fani-Kayode’s Redeployment to South Africa After Germany Posting Drama

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the redeployment of former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to South Africa.

    The development follows earlier reports linking his initial posting to Germany with diplomatic concerns.

    Fani-Kayode counters rejection claims

    In a post shared on his X handle, Fani-Kayode dismissed claims that he was rejected by the German government.

    He insisted that he personally declined the Germany posting and formally requested a redeployment.

    “It gives me pleasure to announce that Mr. President has approved my posting as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa,” he wrote.

    Why he chose South Africa

    Fani-Kayode explained that his decision was based on personal preference and strategic considerations.

    According to him, he had spent most of his life in Europe and preferred a new diplomatic experience in Africa.

    “I was not comfortable with Germany for personal reasons and would rather serve in South Africa, a country I have never been to and have great interest in,” he stated.

    He also cited shared political and ideological alignment with South Africa, as well as its economic position on the continent.

    Approval process revealed

    The former minister said he submitted a formal request for redeployment to the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar.

    He noted that the minister reviewed his reasons and forwarded the request to the president, who approved it.

    Background and political ties

    Fani-Kayode served as Minister of Aviation under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and has remained a vocal supporter of Tinubu.

    He was previously prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over forgery-related charges but was later discharged and acquitted by a Lagos court.

  • Jonathan Speaks on 2027 Presidency After Supporters Storm Abuja Office

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will take time to consult before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, following fresh calls for his return to active politics.

    He spoke on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office, urging him to join the race ahead of the next general elections.

    Pressure Mounts as Supporters Make Case

    The supporters gathered at Jonathan’s office to persuade him to re-enter the political arena, pointing to his experience and past contributions to democratic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.

    They insisted that his leadership record and global democratic engagements make him a strong candidate for 2027.

    “Presidential Race Is Not a Game”

    Responding to the calls, Jonathan acknowledged the appeal but stressed that running for president requires serious reflection.

    “Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.

    He also appreciated the group for the visit, noting that their concerns had been clearly received.

    Focus on Patriotism and National Stability

    Jonathan used the moment to highlight the role of patriotism in nation-building, warning against actions that undermine national interest.

    “It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation and take the money elsewhere,” he said.

    He stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who are committed to protecting and developing the country.

    Peace, Credible Elections Top Priority

    The former President identified peace as Nigeria’s most urgent need, especially as the country prepares for future elections.

    “The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said, urging young Nigerians to promote unity and stability.

    He added that credible elections remain critical, warning that flawed processes could discourage capable individuals from entering politics.

    “Because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to get involved in politics,” Jonathan stated.

    Youth Participation in Democracy

    Jonathan called on Nigerian youths to stay actively engaged in the electoral process, particularly through voting.

    He said young people hold the key to shaping the country’s political future and must not withdraw from democratic participation.

    “You as young people must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” he said.

    Lessons from Africa and 2015 Transition

    Drawing from his post-presidency role, Jonathan noted that he has observed elections in over 14 African countries, reinforcing the importance of peaceful democratic transitions.

    He also referenced Nigeria’s 2015 election, where he lost to former President Muhammadu Buhari, marking the first time an incumbent president conceded defeat.

    The peaceful handover of power on May 29, 2015, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.

    Looking Ahead to Future Generations

    Jonathan emphasised the need to build a Nigeria that serves future generations, urging leaders and citizens to think beyond immediate gains.

    He said the country must prioritise long-term development to secure a better future for younger Nigerians and generations to come.

  • Wike Slams Obi Over Defection, Questions His Leadership Record

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi over his recent defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during his monthly media briefing in Abuja.

    Wike questions Obi’s political track record

    The minister accused Obi of failing to stabilise political parties he has been associated with, describing his movements as a pattern.

    He said Obi’s political journey from APGA to PDP, Labour Party and now NDC reflects an inability to manage internal crises.

    “Obi was in APGA. He couldn’t build the APGA… He came to the PDP, he ran away. He went to Labour, there was crisis, he couldn’t fix it. He left again,” Wike said.

    “Looking for where food is ready”

    Wike argued that Obi’s decisions appear driven by personal interest rather than commitment to party development.

    “All he is looking for is where food is ready. ‘Mama put’. Who will stabilise if you cannot stabilise?” he added.

    Criticism extends to ADC exit

    He also referenced Obi’s brief association with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), noting that his exit from the party further reinforces concerns about consistency.

    According to Wike, leadership requires the ability to confront and resolve challenges, not withdraw from them.

    Supreme Court remarks questioned

    The FCT minister also pointed to Obi’s reaction to the Supreme Court ruling on the ADC leadership dispute, alleging contradictions.

    He said while Obi initially praised the judgement, some of his supporters later questioned it, raising concerns about coherence in his political stance.