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  • Adelabu Speaks on 2027 Gubernatorial Ambition, Confirms Exit Plan from Power Ministry

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has confirmed his intention to step down from office in the coming days as he prepares to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, after formally informing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his political ambition.

    What happened

    According to a statement issued by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu disclosed that he had already communicated his decision to the President during a recent meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he also presented a detailed report on his stewardship in the power sector over the past two and a half years.

    The statement noted that the Minister is expected to resign officially in the coming days, a move described as part of efforts to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in ongoing reforms within the electricity sector before his exit from office.

    Meeting with Tinubu and sector update

    During the engagement with President Tinubu, Adelabu reportedly highlighted key developments recorded under his leadership, including attempts to stabilise electricity generation, improve transmission capacity, and strengthen reforms across the power value chain.

    He also presented major policy frameworks such as the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), its Strategic Implementation Plan, and a Medium to Long-Term Resource Plan designed to guide sustainability and long-term sector growth.

    The statement explained that these frameworks are aimed at improving electricity access, expanding renewable energy integration, attracting investment, and building a more resilient national power system with clearer institutional responsibilities.

    Resignation linked to 2027 ambition

    The statement further confirmed that Adelabu’s planned resignation is directly tied to his governorship ambition in Oyo State, adding that he has received the President’s consent and blessing to pursue the political move.

    It also stressed that part of the reason for the delayed exit is to allow him conclude critical interventions in the power sector, particularly ongoing efforts to address challenges such as gas supply constraints, infrastructure repairs, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers affecting generation output.

    What it means

    Adelabu’s decision now officially positions him among serving ministers preparing for the 2027 political cycle, as political activities gradually intensify across the country. His exit is expected to trigger a replacement process within the Federal Executive Council in the coming weeks.

  • Gov Yusuf Nominates Atiku’s Son-in-Law Garo as Kano Deputy Governor

    Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded the name of Murtala Sule Garo to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as deputy governor, weeks after the position became vacant.

    The nomination, which was formally transmitted to lawmakers, places Garo, who is reportedly the son-in-law of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, in line to take over the role pending legislative approval.

    How the vacancy emerged

    The deputy governorship seat became vacant on March 27, 2026, following the resignation of Aminu Gwarzo, who later defected after falling out with Governor Yusuf in a deepening political rift.

    Before his exit, the Kano State House of Assembly had already initiated impeachment proceedings against Gwarzo over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, breach of public trust and financial mismanagement.

    Governor Yusuf had also accused the former deputy governor of attempting to undermine his administration, escalating tensions that eventually led to his resignation.

    Details of the nomination

    In a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the nomination was said to be in line with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers a governor to appoint a replacement when the office becomes vacant.

    The statement noted that the decision followed consultations with key political stakeholders across the state, with the governor seeking swift approval from the Assembly to fill the gap in his administration.

    Muhammad described Garo as a “seasoned political administrator” with extensive experience spanning over two decades in both elective and appointed positions.

    Garo’s political profile

    The 48-year-old politician has held several roles, including State Organising Secretary of his party, Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area.

    He also served as Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and was the deputy governorship candidate of the APC in the 2023 general elections.

    According to the statement, his nomination is part of efforts by the Yusuf administration to strengthen governance structures and ensure continuity in service delivery across the state.

  • Viral Video Questions Tinubu’s Media Silence, Sparks Debate Online

    A viral video has triggered fresh debate over President Bola Tinubu’s communication style, with a Nigerian woman questioning the level of his direct engagement with journalists.

    The clip, which has gained traction across social media, shows the speaker raising concerns about what she described as limited access to the president.

    What she said

    In the video, the woman criticised the pattern of public appearances by the president, noting that most engagements appear to be controlled settings without direct questioning.

    “President Tinubu occasionally holds press briefings… and that’s it,” she said, adding that she has not seen instances where journalists directly ask him questions.

    She also pointed to the campaign period, recalling that his media appearances were minimal.

    “Even during his campaign… that’s the only interview I can remember,” she added.

    Questions over transparency

    The speaker further raised concerns about transparency, questioning the absence of open interviews or press interactions since Tinubu assumed office.

    She referenced a town hall event during the campaign which the president did not attend, saying it added to perceptions of limited media access.

    “There’s a lot of questions to be asked… but we never get that,” she said.

    Global comparison

    Drawing comparisons with international practices, she cited the United States, noting that leaders there often engage directly with journalists.

    Her comments referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump as an example of frequent media interaction.

    Reactions trail video

    The video has since generated mixed reactions online, with some users agreeing that there is a communication gap, while others argue that the president communicates through official channels and spokespersons.

    Observers say the discussion reflects broader concerns about transparency and public engagement as political discourse intensifies.

  • Adeleke Appoints Davido Youth Mobilisation Head Ahead of Osun 2026 Election

    Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, as head of youth mobilisation for his campaign council ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election.

    Davido confirmed the development on Tuesday via X, expressing excitement over his role in his uncle’s re-election bid.

    “I have been appointed by the Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke and flag bearer of the Accord Party as head youth mobilization of campaign council! We look forward to a smooth campaign and your re-election your excellency! 4+4,” he wrote.

    Role in campaign structure

    The singer is expected to drive youth engagement and mobilisation as political activities gather momentum across the state.

    Davido has been a consistent supporter of Adeleke and was actively involved in previous campaigns.

    Race for Osun Government House

    The appointment comes as Adeleke seeks a second term in the August 2026 governorship election.

    He is expected to face candidates including Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Salaam Folasayo of the African Democratic Congress, among others.

  • Reps Dump LP, APC, PDP for ADC as Defections Rock National Assembly

    At least three members of the House of Representatives have defected to the African Democratic Congress, in a fresh wave of political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The lawmakers, Thaddeus Attah (Eti-Osa, Lagos), Usman Zubairu (Birnin Gwari/Giwa, Kaduna), and Sani Noma (Argungu/Augie, Kebbi)  announced their defection during plenary on Tuesday, cutting across the Labour Party, All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party.

    Fresh wave of defections

    Their move signals a growing shift toward the ADC, as politicians continue to reposition across party lines.

    At the same time, Abubakar Buba (Chanchaga, Niger) and Ibrahim Mohammed (Bunza/Birnin Kebbi/Kalgo, Kebbi) defected from the PDP to the APC, boosting the ruling party’s numbers.

    In Osun, Mudashiru Alani (Ayedire/Iwo/Ola-Oluwa) and Adetunji Olusoji (Odo-Otin/Ifelodun/Boripe) also dumped the PDP for the Accord Party.

    Meanwhile, David Fuoh (Sarduana/Kurmi/Gashaka, Taraba) moved in the opposite direction, leaving the APC for the PDP.

    Why lawmakers are switching

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who read the defection notices on the floor, said the lawmakers cited internal crises in their former parties as the main reason for their decisions.

    The justification reflects a familiar trend in Nigeria’s political space, where party instability often drives defections.

    2027 politics taking shape

    The latest movements highlight increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Observers say the shifting alliances raise concerns about party discipline and ideological consistency, as lawmakers continue to switch platforms in search of political advantage.

  • Court Adjourns El-Rufai Bail Hearing to June as ICPC Prosecution Continues

    A Kaduna State High Court has adjourned the bail hearing of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to the first week of June 2026, in an ongoing trial over alleged fraud and abuse of office.

    What happened

    Justice Darius Khobo fixed the new date after El-Rufai appeared before the court last Tuesday for hearing of his bail application on an amended nine-count charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    The judge had earlier scheduled ruling for April 21, 2026, but later adjourned proceedings.

    Details of the case

    El-Rufai was arraigned last week on charges bordering on fraud and abuse of office.

    His counsel, Ukpon Akpan, confirmed the adjournment after Tuesday’s proceedings, describing the delay as politically motivated.

    Earlier bail in separate case

    The former governor had earlier secured bail in a separate corruption case before a Federal High Court in Kaduna.

    Justice Rilwanu Aikawa granted him bail in the sum of ₦200 million and ordered that he remain in ICPC custody pending the fulfilment of the conditions.

    As part of the bail terms, El-Rufai was barred from making public comments on the case and must attend all court sittings.

    What it means

    The adjournment means the court will only decide on his latest bail request in June, prolonging legal proceedings in one of the high-profile corruption cases involving a former state governor.

  • Lagos Surgeon Appointed Southwest Coordinator as Obi-Kwankwaso Movement Gains Momentum

    Dr. Adefolaseye Adebayo, an ENT/Head and Neck Surgeon at General Hospital Lagos Island, has been appointed Southwest Zonal Coordinator of the OK Movement, a political group backing a proposed Peter Obi–Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket.

    The development comes as political alignments ahead of future elections begin to take shape across the country.

    Appointment confirmed

    The OK Movement, a pressure group advocating an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket, announced Adebayo’s appointment as it expands its structure across regions.

    Obi is currently linked with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while Kwankwaso is being projected as a potential running mate under the proposed alliance.

    Adebayo reacts

    Reacting via social media, Adebayo described the appointment as an honour and pledged commitment to the role.

    “I am deeply honored… I wholeheartedly accept this responsibility… I call on all Nigerians in the Southwest… to join the OK Movement,” she said.

    She added that the movement believes the Obi-Kwankwaso combination offers a viable path for Nigeria’s leadership.

    Growing political signals

    The move reflects early mobilisation efforts by political groups positioning ahead of the next election cycle.

    Observers say such alliances could shape the dynamics of opposition politics in the coming months.

  • Jibrin Ibrahim Raises Fresh Alarm, Accuses INEC Chair Amupitan of Bias

    Senior Fellow at the Centre for Democracy and Development, Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim, has accused the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, of acting with bias, warning that recent developments could weaken trust in Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of future polls.

    Fresh claims against INEC leadership

    Speaking during a television interview, Ibrahim said early actions under the current INEC chairman suggest a pattern that raises questions about neutrality.

    He noted that although Amupitan is newly appointed, some of the commission’s decisions have already drawn concern from observers.

    “Targeting opposition without basis”

    Ibrahim alleged that certain moves by the electoral body appear to be directed at a major opposition party without clear legal justification.

    “This indicates we have a partisan person, who has come to do the job of his master,” he said.

    “He had partisan opinions in the last election and showed that partisanship openly on X.”

    He added that several legal experts have also questioned the basis of some decisions taken by the commission.

    Why this matters

    According to Ibrahim, perceived bias from INEC could damage public confidence in elections, especially as political activities begin to build toward 2027.

    He warned that trust in the electoral umpire remains a key pillar for credible elections.

    What this means going forward

    The remarks add to ongoing conversations around electoral transparency and accountability in Nigeria.

    As scrutiny of institutions increases, stakeholders say maintaining neutrality will be critical in shaping public perception of future elections.

  • APC Unveils Full Timetable for 2027 Elections, Fixes Dates for Primaries, Forms

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its detailed timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, outlining dates for sale of forms, screening, primaries, and appeals.

    The schedule, signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, shows that the process will begin on April 20, 2026, with the notice of election to state chapters.

    Key dates announced

    According to the timetable, the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is fixed for May 4, while screening of aspirants for all positions will take place between May 6 and May 8.

    The publication of screening results is scheduled for May 11, with appeals set for May 12 and 13.

    Primary elections schedule

    The party fixed its presidential primary for May 15 and 16.

    House of Representatives primaries will hold on May 18, followed by the Senate on May 20.

    State House of Assembly primaries are slated for May 21, while governorship primaries will take place on May 23.

    Appeals timetable

    Appeals for the presidential primary will be held on May 18.

    House of Representatives appeals are scheduled for May 20, Senate on May 21, State Assembly on May 23, and governorship on May 25.

    Cost of forms

    The APC also released the cost of nomination and expression of interest forms.

    Presidential aspirants will pay ₦100 million, made up of ₦30 million for expression of interest and ₦70 million for nomination.

    Governorship forms cost ₦50 million, Senate ₦20 million, House of Representatives ₦10 million, and State Assembly ₦6 million.

    The party added that female, youth, and physically challenged aspirants will pay for expression of interest forms and 50 percent of nomination fees.

    What it means

    The release of the timetable signals the formal start of APC’s internal process ahead of the 2027 elections, with political activities expected to intensify in the coming weeks.

     

  • Tinubu Approves New Police Academy Campus in Ogun, Releases ₦15bn Take-Off Fund

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigeria Police Academy campus in Erinja, Yewa South Local Government Area of Ogun State, alongside a ₦15 billion take-off grant for its development.

    The approval was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    What was approved

    According to the statement, the ₦15bn intervention fund will be sourced from TETFund’s 2026 allocation.

    It will cover key infrastructure, academic facilities, student accommodation, and essential training equipment for the new campus.

    The Presidency said the move aligns with the Nigeria Police Academy (Establishment) Act, 2021, which allows the institution to operate multiple campuses nationwide.

    Why Ogun was selected

    The siting of the campus in Erinja followed recommendations from a high-level meeting involving top government officials.

    Participants included the Minister of Police Affairs, Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, the Inspector General of Police, and the National Universities Commission.

    They considered factors such as student capacity, funding, academic standards, and the long-term training needs of the Nigeria Police Force.

    What it means

    The Presidency said the expansion is aimed at strengthening policing education, institutional governance, and national security.

    The Nigeria Police Academy currently operates a single campus in Wudil, Kano State.

    The new Ogun campus will be the first additional campus created under the 2021 Act.

    Background

    The Academy began in 1988 with temporary campuses in Kano and Kaduna before relocating to Wudil in 1996.

    It became a degree-awarding institution in 2012 and now offers programmes across law, sciences, and related fields.

    Lawmakers had earlier called for decentralisation of the Academy, proposing campuses across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.