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  • APC Waives Screening for Tinubu Ahead of Presidential Primary

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has waived the screening requirement for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the party’s presidential primary.

    The decision was announced on Wednesday after the National Working Committee (NWC) held its 188th meeting in Abuja.

    Tinubu ‘deemed duly screened’

    In a statement by APC spokesperson Felix Morka, the party said the president is considered to have met all screening requirements.

    The NWC stated that Tinubu is “duly screened in accordance with the Constitution of the Party” and can proceed to participate in the primary.

    Party cites constitutional powers

    Morka explained that the decision was based on provisions of the APC constitution, which empower the NWC to organise primaries and grant waivers where necessary.

    He said the committee acted within its mandate under Article 13.4 of the party’s rules.

    Endorsements influenced decision

    According to the party, Tinubu has already secured strong backing from key stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum and members of the National Assembly.

    The NWC also referenced endorsements from previous party events, including the APC National Summit.

    Screening deemed unnecessary

    The party added that Tinubu had already undergone screening ahead of the 2022 presidential primary, making another appearance before a screening panel unnecessary.

    It described the requirement as redundant given his current position as president and leader of the party.

  • Aisha Yesufu Dumps ADC, Declares FCT Senate Bid After Joining NDC

    Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where she has declared her intention to contest the Federal Capital Territory senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

    She made the announcement on Wednesday via a statement shared on her X handle.

    Defection tied to Obi’s political move

    Yesufu linked her decision to her continued support for former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who recently moved to the NDC.

    She said her latest political step reflects a deeper conviction about Nigeria’s future and alignment with Obi’s leadership.

    “The next couple of days will define the future of this nation… I resigned from the ADC to join the NDC as I follow the leadership of HE Peter Obi,” she stated.

    “I’m running for FCT Senate”

    The activist confirmed that she would be contesting for the FCT senatorial seat under the platform of the NDC.

    “This time I am joining the NDC not just as a member but as one running for the FCT Senatorial seat,” she added.

    Explains exit from ADC

    Yesufu described her resignation as a “clean transition”, noting that her initial move to the ADC was also influenced by her support for Obi.

    She said her defection is a continuation of that commitment.

    “When I give my word, I keep it… To continue to honour the promise I am joining the NDC,” she said.

    Appreciates party members

    She also expressed gratitude to members of the ADC, stating that she had completed her responsibilities within the party.

    According to her, she served in multiple roles including sub-committee chair, deputy committee chair, and secretary.

  • “We’ll Use the Rules on You” — Akpabio Warns as Oshiomhole Disrupts Senate Proceedings

    There was a tense moment in the Senate on Wednesday after a heated exchange broke out between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole over procedural rules.

    The disagreement erupted during plenary while the Votes and Proceedings of the previous sitting were being read.

    Clash over Senate procedure

    Trouble began when Oshiomhole raised a point of order, prompting Akpabio to remind him that such interruptions are not allowed at that stage under the amended Standing Orders.

    Despite the warning, Oshiomhole continued, leading Akpabio to call on Senator Orji Kalu to clarify the rule. Kalu backed the Senate President, insisting that no point of order could be entertained at that point.

    Tensions escalate on the floor

    As the exchange intensified, Chief Whip Tahir Monguno also stepped in, cautioning Oshiomhole to comply or risk disciplinary action.

    Akpabio later issued a direct warning: “If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”

    The session eventually continued, with lawmakers adopting the Votes and Proceedings after a motion was moved and seconded.

    Fresh rule amendment sparks controversy

    The clash comes shortly after the Senate amended its Standing Rules, a move that has drawn attention ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Under the new provisions, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately before nomination will be eligible to contest for principal leadership positions.

    This effectively limits eligibility for key roles such as Senate President and Deputy Senate President to returning lawmakers from the current assembly.

    Implications for future contenders

    The amendment narrows the field for leadership positions in the incoming 11th National Assembly, excluding first-time or non-consecutive senators from contesting.

    Lawmakers say the change is aimed at strengthening parliamentary tradition and enforcing ranking within the Senate.

    The development has added another layer to ongoing political realignments, as attention gradually shifts toward 2027.

  • Wike Fires Back After Pastor’s Emotional Plea Over Jabi Lake

    FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reacted to a viral appeal by Pastor Sarah Omakwu, dismissing emotional pressure over the proposed development of the Jabi Lake recreation area in Abuja.

    The response came during his Wednesday media briefing, days after the cleric publicly pleaded against any private takeover of the site.

    Pastor’s plea sparks public attention

    Omakwu, Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, had gone on her knees in a video, urging the minister not to allocate the lake area to private interests.

    “I cannot fight the minister… but I go on my knees… that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody,” she said.

    The emotional appeal quickly gained traction online.

    “I’m not moved by emotions” — Wike replies

    Reacting, Wike said governance cannot be driven by sentiment, stressing that not everyone will agree with government decisions.

    “I’m human in this government and you don’t expect everybody to be happy,” he said.

    He questioned the basis of the claim, asking who owns the lake and why individuals would assume control over public assets.

    Concerns over current state of the area

    Wike explained that the location had previously been allocated to a company for development but had deteriorated into what he described as shanties.

    He said the condition of the area raised security and environmental concerns.

    “There is a hotel there… who would come and stay when there are shanties all over? You don’t know if there are criminals,” he added.

    Debate over public space and development

    The exchange has sparked wider conversations about urban development, public access, and government decision-making in the FCT.

    While some support redevelopment efforts, others insist the lake should remain a public recreational space.

  • Birthday Twist as Kalu Signs Tinubu’s 2027 Nomination Form

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, signing his nomination form for the 2027 general elections.

    The move coincided with Kalu’s 55th birthday, which he described as a symbolic moment to reaffirm his political stance.

    “A birthday gift” — Kalu explains move

    Kalu said endorsing the President’s form was a rare privilege and a meaningful way to mark his birthday.

    “This was indeed a beautiful birthday gift… reaffirming my support and commitment to the continuity of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    Top figures join endorsement

    The signing took place on Tuesday alongside other key figures, including Ikeja lawmaker James Faleke and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Kalu disclosed the development in a post shared on his X handle.

    Backing continuity beyond 2027

    According to the Deputy Speaker, the endorsement reflects a broader commitment among some political leaders to sustain the current administration’s reforms.

    He said efforts remain focused on advancing development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

    “We remain resolute in our pledge to work with Mr. President in delivering transformative reforms,” he added.

    Early signals ahead of 2027

    The development adds to early political signals ahead of the 2027 elections, with alignments and endorsements gradually taking shape within the ruling camp.

  • Dino Melaye Mocks Peter Obi’s Political Moves, Says He “Avoids Hot Kitchen” in Leadership Test

    Former senator Dino Melaye has criticised Peter Obi over his recent political move, questioning his ability to handle pressure within Nigeria’s political space.

    Melaye made the remarks while reacting to Obi’s shift to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Melaye questions Obi’s resilience

    Speaking in a strongly worded statement, Melaye accused the former presidential candidate of avoiding difficult political situations.

    He argued that leadership in Nigeria requires the capacity to withstand internal crises and intense pressure.

    “Peter Obi excused himself from tough situation. If he can not face party tribulations and crisis, how does he intend to handle Nigeria?” he said.

    He added, “He can only operate in an air-conditioned kitchen. Hot kitchens are not for him.”

    Claims over political trajectory

    The former lawmaker also alleged that Obi has largely avoided competitive primary elections throughout his political career.

    According to him, Obi benefitted from direct tickets at different stages, including his governorship, vice-presidential, and presidential bids.

    “He has never gone through primary… APGA gave him free governorship ticket, Atiku gave him free VP ticket, Labour gave free presidential ticket,” Melaye stated.

    He further claimed that Obi’s exits from previous parties were linked to his reluctance to participate in primaries.

    Controversy over NDC alignment

    Melaye went on to question the independence of the NDC, alleging that the party is aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “NDC is an agency of APC,” he claimed.

    The comments add to growing reactions trailing recent political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, as key figures continue to shift alliances across parties.

  • INEC Fixes May 11 for Final Voter Registration Phase Ahead of 2027 Polls

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the third and final phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise will begin on May 11, 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The commission said the exercise will run until July 10 across the country.

    Final phase begins nationwide

    INEC disclosed that the new phase follows the suspension of the second stage on April 17 to allow for data clean-up after the publication of the voters’ register.

    According to the commission, the final phase will give eligible Nigerians another opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

    Who can register and update details

    Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said citizens who have turned 18 or missed earlier registration windows are expected to take part.

    He added that registered voters can also transfer their registration, replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), or correct personal details.

    Haruna advised Nigerians to use the official CVR portal or visit INEC offices in their states and local government areas.

    Voter register to be displayed

    The commission said the updated register will be displayed for claims and objections between July 23 and July 29, 2026.

    It noted that the process is designed to ensure the credibility, accuracy and completeness of the voter database.

    INEC assures smooth exercise

    INEC assured that all arrangements have been concluded for a seamless exercise nationwide.

    The commission also urged Nigerians to take the process seriously, describing voter registration as a key step in strengthening the country’s democratic system.

  • “After All I Spent…” — APC Aspirant Breaks Down as Consensus Deal Costs Him Ticket

    An aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has broken down in tears after losing out in his party’s candidate selection process, sparking reactions online.

    A viral video shows the moment he displayed his nomination form, visibly distressed over the outcome.

    Tears over lost ticket

    In the footage, the aspirant lamented that despite purchasing the nomination form and participating in the process, the party eventually adopted a consensus arrangement.

    He said the decision handed the ticket to another contender, leaving him sidelined at the final stage.

    The emotional scene has since drawn attention, with many questioning the fairness of internal party processes.

    Claims of heavy investment

    The aspirant suggested he had invested significantly in the race, making the outcome even more painful.

    Voices heard in the background of the video indicated that the incident may have occurred in northern Nigeria, although full details remain unclear.

    Similar case resurfaces in Kwara

    The development comes shortly after another aspirant, Abdulmajeed Abdulfatai Arikewuyo, made headlines over a similar experience in Kwara State.

    Arikewuyo had claimed that despite completing his nomination process at the ward level, his name was never submitted at the state level.

    He said he was later informed that his details were not on record, effectively disqualifying him from the race.

    Growing concerns over party processes

    Both incidents have fueled conversations about transparency and accountability in candidate selection within political parties.

    As reactions continue to trail the videos, calls are growing for clearer procedures to ensure fairness for aspirants.

  • “ADC Is His Party” — Lawmaker Accuses Atiku of Dominating Coalition

    A fresh rift may be unfolding within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition after a federal lawmaker, Hon. Ifeanyi Uzokwe, accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of dominating the group’s structure.

    The claim adds to ongoing concerns about internal disagreements ahead of the next election cycle.

    Claims of personal control

    Uzokwe alleged that key decisions within the coalition were being driven by Atiku rather than through collective agreement.

    According to him, tensions escalated after claims that the coalition was formed under Atiku’s personal influence.

    “We left ADC because His Excellency Atiku Abubakar said that coalition was formed in his house, that ADC is his party, that nobody will tell him anything,” he said.

    Dispute over primaries and zoning

    The lawmaker questioned the process for selecting candidates, insisting that all aspirants should be allowed to compete through transparent primaries.

    He suggested that Atiku should step aside to allow southern contenders to emerge.

    “Let him say he is stepping down… let Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi and others go into primaries,” he stated.

    Uzokwe also referenced internal zoning discussions, claiming some factions had already conceded the presidential ticket to the South.

    ‘Mass movement’ claim rejected

    Dismissing narratives of a unified opposition front, Uzokwe accused some political actors of misleading Nigerians.

    “What are you telling me? Somebody that stood for election in 2023 and you are telling me about primaries. My brother, stop telling lies to Nigerians,” he said.

    He further claimed that multiple meetings were held among political stakeholders, but no consensus was reached on power-sharing arrangements.

    Coalition tensions deepen

    The remarks point to deeper divisions within the ADC coalition, particularly over leadership control and strategic direction.

    With political realignments continuing, the situation is likely to shape how opposition forces organise ahead of 2027.

  • Senate Tension Rises as Oshiomhole Targets MTN, DSTV Over SA Crisis

    Tension rose in the Senate on Tuesday as Senator Adams Oshiomhole called for economic sanctions against South African companies operating in Nigeria over renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians.

    His remarks came as lawmakers condemned the violence and urged urgent diplomatic action.

    Oshiomhole pushes for economic retaliation

    Speaking during plenary, Oshiomhole invoked the principle of reciprocity, arguing that Nigeria must respond firmly.

    “I don’t want this Senate to be shedding tears… If you hit me, I’ll hit you,” he said.

    He proposed the withdrawal of operating licences for MTN and DSTV, alleging that both companies repatriate significant revenue while Nigerians face hostility in South Africa.

    Call for licence revocation

    The senator urged the Federal Government to consider nationalising MTN and revoking its licence.

    He also called for similar action against DSTV, describing both firms as major economic actors with strong ties to South Africa.

    According to him, such steps would not only protect Nigerians but also create opportunities for local businesses.

    Lawmakers raise safety concerns

    Senator Victor Umeh also expressed concern over the safety of Nigerians abroad.

    He described reports from South Africa as alarming, noting that many Nigerians are unable to move freely due to fear of attacks.

    Umeh called on the African Union to intervene and consider sanctions against South Africa.

    Senate rejects proposal

    Despite the strong calls, the Senate declined to support the revocation of licences for MTN and DSTV.

    Lawmakers described the suggestion as uncalled for, even as they unanimously condemned the xenophobic attacks.

    They labelled the violence “barbaric, unlawful and inconsistent with African brotherhood.”

    Diplomatic pressure builds

    The development reflects growing pressure on the Federal Government to take decisive action in protecting Nigerians abroad.

    It also highlights the delicate balance between economic interests and diplomatic relations in responding to international crises.