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  • PDP, ADC Seal 2027 Alliance Plan, Push for One Presidential Flagbearer

    Leaders of opposition parties have agreed to present a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) push for a united front against the ruling party.

    One candidate strategy takes shape

    The decision was announced at an opposition summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, where party leaders resolved to align their efforts ahead of the next general election.

    PDP factional Chairman, Tanimu Turaki SAN, disclosed this while reading the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting.

    According to him, the parties are working towards presenting a consensus candidate that will be jointly supported across opposition platforms.

    Top contenders already in the race

    The development comes as key political figures have already shown interest in the ADC presidential ticket.

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi are among those who have declared their intentions.

    Opposition raises concerns over 2027 polls

    Beyond the candidate plan, the PDP and ADC also demanded the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan.

    They accused him of bias and alleged partisanship in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Warning over electoral credibility

    Reading the communiqué, Turaki said the opposition would resist any attempt to impose a sole candidate from the ruling party in 2027.

    He added that confidence in the electoral umpire had been eroded, warning that the chairman’s continued stay in office could threaten the credibility of the elections.

    “That we shall work towards fielding one Presidential Candidate for the 2027 elections… to rescue our nation and her long suffering masses,” he stated.

    The parties insisted that only a transparent and credible electoral process would ensure stability and public trust in the outcome of the 2027 polls.

     

  • Kwankwaso Arrives Ibadan for Opposition Leaders’ Summit Hosted by Makinde

    Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has arrived in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders.

    The former presidential candidate disclosed this in a post on his X account on Saturday, expressing readiness for high-level engagements.

    Summit brings opposition figures together

    The summit is being hosted by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with several political figures expected to participate.

    Kwankwaso described the meeting as an opportunity for meaningful discussions among national leaders.

    “Excited to arrive in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders, hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde,” he wrote.

    “Ready for meaningful engagements with fellow national leaders.”

    Focus on political consultations

    Although details of the agenda were not disclosed, the gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures ahead of future political alignments.

    The meeting comes amid increasing talks around coalition-building and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • Court Strikes Out Contempt Suit Against INEC Chairman Over Service Failure

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a contempt suit filed against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the applicant failed to personally serve the required court documents.

    Why the court struck out the case

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik dismissed the suit on the basis that the defendant was not personally served, as mandated by law in contempt proceedings.

    She held that since contempt is quasi-criminal in nature, Form 48 must be served directly on the alleged contemnor.

    The judge added that failure to comply leaves the court with no option but to strike out the case.

    Background to the legal dispute

    The case stemmed from an earlier judgment delivered on March 5, 2025, where the court ordered INEC to recognise the Edozie Njoku-led faction as the leadership of the National Rescue Movement (NRM).

    Following INEC’s refusal to comply, the faction initiated contempt proceedings against the then INEC chairman by filing Forms 48 and 49.

    However, INEC challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the contempt did not occur in the face of the court.

    Case reassigned before final ruling

    The initial trial judge later recused himself and returned the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, who reassigned it to Justice Abdulmalik.

    At the resumed hearing, the court insisted on proper personal service and adjourned for compliance.

    But when the applicant failed to meet the requirement, the case was struck out.

    Reactions from NRM faction

    Reacting, factional NRM chairman Chinedu Obi welcomed the ruling, questioning the legitimacy of the Njoku-led leadership.

    He maintained that the party’s recognised structure remains the one reflected on INEC’s official platform.

    Obi added that the development clears the path for the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections.

     

  • Yahaya Bello Secures N1bn Court Victory Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

    A Kogi State High Court has awarded N1 billion in damages to former governor Yahaya Bello in a defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over remarks made during a television interview.

    Court rules interview defamatory

    Delivering judgment in the suit marked HCL/16/2023, Justice A. S. Ibrahim held that statements made by the senator during a November 4, 2022 appearance on Arise TV’s “The Morning Show” were defamatory.

    The court ruled that describing Bello as a “murderer,” “killer,” and “perpetrator of evil acts” was unjustified and damaging to his reputation.

    N1bn damages, injunction granted

    Based on the balance of probabilities, the court entered judgment in favour of Bello and awarded ₦1 billion as damages.

    It also issued a perpetual injunction restraining Akpoti-Uduaghan, her agents, or associates from making further defamatory statements against the former governor across media platforms.

    Legal battle and appeal history

    The suit followed Bello’s claim that the senator’s comments tarnished his image.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the case was an abuse of court process.

    However, Bello’s counsel countered the claim, insisting the matter was properly filed. The Court of Appeal later dismissed the senator’s challenge and affirmed the High Court’s authority to hear the case.

  • Ruto Mocks Nigerian English After Tinubu’s Kenya Comparison Sparks Reactions

    Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has stirred reactions after taking a swipe at Nigerians while responding to recent remarks by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu comparing Nigeria’s economy to Kenya’s.

    Ruto’s remark sparks backlash

    In a viral video, Ruto defended Kenya’s standards while mocking Nigerian English.

    “Our education and English are good. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator,” he said.

    The comment has since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians criticising the tone of his response.

    Tinubu’s comment triggers exchange

    Ruto’s remark follows Tinubu’s statement during a visit to Bayelsa State on April 10, where he compared Nigeria’s economic situation with that of other African countries, including Kenya.

    “Yes, I hear you… the fuel prices are biting hard,” Tinubu said.

    “But look around; let’s thank God together that we are better off than those in Kenya and other African countries.”

    The statement sparked debate among Nigerians, many of whom questioned the comparison.

    Opposition figures push back

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, criticised the president’s position, urging a focus on realities on ground.

    “Nigerians should not be asked to find solace in comparisons that ignore their daily struggles,” he said.

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also faulted the comparison, describing it as misleading.

    “It is both curious and troubling that the President would isolate fuel prices… while ignoring more critical indicators like purchasing power and cost of living,” Atiku said.

    He argued that affordability should be measured by income relative to expenses, adding that many Nigerians are under increasing economic pressure.

    Debate widens across borders

    The exchange has widened discussions about economic performance and national perception between Nigeria and Kenya.

    The development is trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, as reactions continue to build across social media and political circles.

  • APC Shifts Presidential Primary to May 23 as Party Revises 2027 Election Timetable

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rescheduled its presidential primary election to May 23, 2026, from the earlier dates of May 15 and 16, as part of adjustments to its timetable for the 2027 general elections.

    Fresh timetable announced

    The update was announced by APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, after the party’s 186th National Working Committee meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

    He said the revision affects key stages, including screening, appeals, and primary elections across all levels.

    “We now have a new revised timetable in accordance with the Constitution… the Electoral Act 2026, and INEC’s schedule,” Meseko said.

    Screening, forms timeline adjusted

    According to the new schedule, sale of nomination forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026, while submission of completed forms will close on May 4.

    Screening of aspirants for various positions will hold between May 6 and May 9, with presidential screening fixed for May 9.

    Publication of screening results is scheduled for May 11, while appeals will be heard between May 12 and May 13.

    Primary elections schedule

    The party outlined dates for its primaries across positions, beginning with House of Representatives on May 15, followed by Senate on May 18, and State House of Assembly on May 20.

    Governorship primaries will hold on May 21, while the presidential primary has now been moved to May 23.

    Post-primary appeals will follow between May 18 and May 25, depending on the position.

    Mode of primaries clarified

    Meseko said the APC will adopt both direct and consensus methods for its primaries, in line with the Electoral Act.

    “Aspirants are free to decide their preference… where consensus fails, it automatically reverts to direct primaries,” he explained.

    He also dismissed claims that nomination forms would be restricted, insisting they are open to all interested aspirants.

    Zamfara congress timetable released

    The party also released a separate timetable for ward, local government, and state congresses in Zamfara State, scheduled to begin on April 28.

    The process will include screening, elections, and appeals across different levels of party structure.

    INEC timeline in focus

    The adjustments come as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls set for February 6.

    INEC also stated that party primaries must be conducted between April 23 and May 30, 2026.

    The revised APC timetable is now a key development in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

     

  • Adelabu Directs Traffic in Ibadan After Exit as Power Minister, Sparks 2027 Buzz

    Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, was spotted directing traffic on a busy road in Ibadan on Thursday, hours after returning to the city amid growing political signals ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Viral moment on Ibadan road

    In a video circulating online, Adelabu was seen stepping out of his vehicle and controlling traffic flow like a road marshal.

    “He just came down and started directing cars. People were surprised, but some even hailed him,” an eyewitness said.

    The unusual scene quickly drew attention, with many linking it to his renewed political visibility in Oyo State.

    Warm reception fuels speculation

    Earlier in the day, Adelabu received a large welcome at the Ibadan airport, where supporters gathered to escort him in a lively procession to his residence.

    The reception is widely seen as a signal of his preparations for another run at the Oyo State governorship.

    Resignation clears path

    In his resignation letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu confirmed that he would leave office effective April 30, 2026.

    “This decision is in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, as I intend to contest in the forthcoming election,” he said.

    His exit brings an end to his tenure as power minister, during which he said he focused on reforms in Nigeria’s electricity sector.

    Eyes on 2027 comeback

    Adelabu previously contested the Oyo governorship election in 2019 under the All Progressives Congress but lost to Governor Seyi Makinde.

    He ran again in 2023 under the Accord Party but was defeated.

    Despite those outcomes, his latest moves suggest a fresh push for the 2027 race, with supporters already expressing confidence.

    “This is just the beginning… we are ready for 2027,” one supporter said.

    The development is gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as political activities begin to build ahead of the next election cycle.

  • Tinubu Meets APC Governors in Aso Villa Amid Party Consensus Concerns

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently meeting with governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, in a move that comes amid growing concerns over the party’s internal arrangements.

    Governors arrive for closed-door talks

    The meeting, holding inside the President’s office, has in attendance several APC governors, including Babagana Zulum (Borno), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara).

    Some governors are also represented by their deputies.

    As of the time of filing this report, details of the meeting agenda have not been disclosed.

    Meeting follows Senate engagement

    The development comes less than 24 hours after Tinubu held a separate meeting with the leadership of the Senate.

    That earlier engagement was reportedly centred on concerns raised by lawmakers over the party’s ongoing consensus arrangement.

    Focus shifts to party direction

    While the outcome of the meeting remains unclear, the gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations within the ruling party as it navigates internal dynamics.

    The development is already drawing attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, as stakeholders watch for signals from the APC leadership.

  • Bala Mohammed Declares ‘Freelance Politician’ After Meeting Peter Obi in Bauchi

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has described himself as a “freelance politician” after hosting former presidential candidate Peter Obi in Bauchi, in a meeting linked to ongoing opposition consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.

    ‘We are all in the opposition’

    Speaking after the closed-door meeting at Ramat House on Thursday, Mohammed said he is no longer tied strictly to any political party.

    “Neither PDP nor ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and his party is also in limbo. We are looking up to the judiciary. But certainly, we are all in the opposition,” he said.

    He added that discussions focused on possible alignment and cooperation among opposition figures, though details were not disclosed.

    “It is about realignment, alignment and cooperation so that we can have a platform. We cannot go without a platform,” Mohammed stated.

    Obi leads delegation

    Peter Obi, now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led a delegation of political stakeholders from the South-East.

    The team included Senator Ben Obi, former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa, Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh, as well as Prof. Udenta Udenta.

    Push for unity ahead of 2027

    Obi said the visit was aimed at strengthening national unity and building cross-regional cooperation.

    “My purpose is to solicit for the support and cooperation of His Excellency and the stakeholders of Bauchi and the Northeast in our quest to unite this country,” he said.

    “The country cannot continue the way it is today… we need to reverse that for everybody.”

    Talks signal opposition moves

    While both sides kept specifics of the discussions private, they confirmed that the talks centred on collaboration among opposition leaders.

    The meeting is the latest in a series of engagements between Mohammed and Obi, following a similar visit in August 2025 when the governor invited Obi to join the Peoples Democratic Party.

    Parties face legal uncertainty

    The development comes amid ongoing legal disputes within both the PDP and ADC, with key cases still pending before the Supreme Court.

    The uncertainty around party structures has further fuelled talks of political realignment ahead of 2027, making the development a major issue in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Tinubu Seeks N698bn Loan for Sokoto–Badagry Highway as Senate Begins Review

    President Bola Tinubu has asked the Senate to approve a fresh N698 billion loan for the construction of the Sokoto–Badagry super highway, a major infrastructure project linking northern and southern Nigeria.

    Loan request before Senate

    The request was conveyed in a letter read at plenary on Thursday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    Tinubu said the loan would fund Sections 1, Phase 1a and 1b, covering 120km of the planned 1,000km corridor.

    The highway is designed to run from Illela in Sokoto State through Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, and Ogun, terminating in Badagry, Lagos State.

    Financing structure outlined

    According to the president, the project will be financed through a syndicated loan to be secured via Deutsche Bank AG, with support from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit.

    He added that the Federal Government would provide counterpart funding of ₦265.5 billion for land acquisition, compensation, and related infrastructure.

    The loan has a nine-year tenor, including a grace period of up to three years, with interest capped at CME SOFR plus 5.3 percent annually.

    Project aims and expected impact

    Tinubu noted that the super highway is expected to improve connectivity between the North and South, enhance road safety, and reduce logistics costs.

    He also said the project would support trade, boost food security, and strengthen national cohesion by linking production zones to markets and ports.

    The design includes provisions for future rail integration and utility corridors along the central median.

    Senate moves to review proposal

    Akpabio referred the request to the Senate Committee on Foreign and Local Debts, which is expected to report back within one week.

    Senator Mohammed Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) backed the project, describing it as long overdue.

    “This project has been on the ground for the last 55 years… I have inspected the project and I have seen the progress made,” he said.

    He added that ongoing work includes both concrete and asphalt sections fitted with solar streetlights.

    Aliero estimated that the road could cut travel time from Sokoto to Lagos by over 70 percent, reducing the journey from about 13 hours to roughly six hours.

    The proposal is now under legislative scrutiny and remains a key issue in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as infrastructure financing debates continue.