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  • Peter Obi Faces Tough Questions on Security, 2023 Election Claim in Viral Interview

    Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has defended his record in public office, restated his claim of winning the 2023 presidential election, and outlined his plans for Nigeria if elected president in 2027.

    Obi spoke during a live interview on the Nevon HQ Blackbox podcast hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni on Tuesday, where he addressed issues ranging from governance and security to economic development and national unity.

    Obi Defends Record as Anambra Governor

    The former Anambra State governor highlighted what he described as key achievements during his time in office, particularly in education, healthcare and fiscal management.

    According to him, his administration improved educational standards, expanded healthcare facilities and invested in human capital development while maintaining prudent management of public resources.

    Obi said his performance in Anambra demonstrates his ability to deliver results and manage government funds effectively.

    Revisits 2023 Election Claim

    During the interview, Obi reiterated his long-held position that he won the 2023 presidential election despite the declaration of President Bola Tinubu as the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    He also confirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the NDC platform.

    “I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said.

    The former Labour Party presidential candidate maintained that his political ambition is driven by a desire to improve the country’s economic and social conditions.

    Outlines Vision for Nigeria

    Obi said his vision for Nigeria focuses on poverty reduction, national unity, improved education and economic growth.

    He promised to boost power generation to 10,000 megawatts and strengthen agriculture as part of efforts to improve food security and create jobs.

    According to him, these goals can be achieved through efficient governance, investment in human capital and stronger anti-corruption measures.

    Speaks on Insecurity

    Addressing insecurity, Obi said his administration would combine dialogue with firm action against criminal groups.

    “In uniting the country, anybody who wants peace, I will talk with him, I will negotiate with him. Anybody who wants war, we’ll go to war,” he said.

    He added that individuals willing to abandon violence should be given an opportunity to reform and reintegrate into society.

    Obi, however, declined to provide detailed operational plans for tackling insecurity, saying the focus should remain on broader strategies for restoring peace and stability.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Interview

    The interview generated varied reactions across social media platforms.

    Supporters praised Obi’s vision and commitment to governance reforms, while critics questioned some of his policy proposals and argued that he was not sufficiently detailed on security matters.

    Obi also dismissed allegations of financial impropriety raised by some former associates, insisting that anyone with evidence should present it in court.

    The interview comes as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general election, with Obi remaining one of the leading opposition figures seeking to challenge the ruling APC.

  • Court Orders Deregistration of ADC, Four Other Political Parties

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the deregistration of five political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), in a ruling that could have implications for political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Justice Peter Lifu delivered the judgment, holding that the affected parties failed to satisfy constitutional requirements necessary for their continued recognition as registered political parties in Nigeria.

    Parties Affected by Judgment

    The court’s decision affects the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Actions People’s Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Accord Party (AP).

    According to the judgment, the parties did not meet the standards stipulated under Section 225 of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister political parties that fail to comply with constitutional and electoral obligations.

    Court Relies on Constitutional Provisions

    Justice Lifu noted that political parties are expected to fulfil specific legal and operational requirements to maintain their registration status.

    The court held that the affected parties fell short of those constitutional expectations, making them liable for deregistration under existing laws.

    Section 225 of the Constitution grants INEC the authority to remove parties from its register where they fail to meet prescribed conditions.

    Implications Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The ruling is expected to generate significant political debate as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

    The inclusion of the ADC among the affected parties has drawn particular attention due to its growing role in opposition politics and its association with prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    However, the legal battle may not be over, as the affected parties could challenge the ruling through the appellate courts.

    The judgment has introduced fresh uncertainty into Nigeria’s political landscape, with attention now turning to possible appeals and INEC’s next steps regarding the affected parties.

  • ADC Picks Amaechi as Atiku’s Running Mate for 2027 Election

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has selected former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the party’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, pairing him with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    The announcement was made on Monday by ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who said Amaechi’s emergence followed consultations with party leaders, coalition partners and stakeholders across the country.

    ADC Explains Amaechi’s Selection

    According to the party, Amaechi’s selection was influenced by his performance in the ADC presidential primary, where he emerged as runner-up, as well as his experience in public service.

    The party noted that his record as former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term governor and former Minister of Transportation makes him a strong complement to Atiku’s candidacy.

    Abdullahi said the partnership brings together two politicians with extensive experience in governance and national politics.

    Party Describes Ticket as National Alliance

    ADC described the Atiku-Amaechi ticket as a national alliance aimed at addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

    According to the statement, Amaechi’s political influence in the South-South and across southern Nigeria would strengthen the party’s reach ahead of the election.

    The party also argued that the combination of both leaders offers experience in governance, public administration and coalition building.

    Focus on 2027 Election

    ADC said the ticket represents its effort to provide Nigerians with what it described as a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    The party expressed confidence that the partnership would energise its supporters and strengthen its campaign across the country.

    It also called on party members, coalition partners, youth groups, women organisations and other stakeholders to support its plans for the next general election.

  • Okpebholo Alleges Opposition Behind Rising Insecurity, Says No Vacancy in Aso Rock

    Governor Monday Okpebholo has alleged that rising insecurity across Nigeria is being fuelled by opposition elements seeking to discredit the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

    Okpebholo made the remarks on Tuesday in Benin City during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the forthcoming local government elections in Edo South Senatorial District.

    Okpebholo Blames Opposition for Security Challenges

    The governor claimed that the recent increase in kidnappings and other security incidents was politically motivated and aimed at undermining the federal government.

    According to him, those behind the insecurity would not achieve their political ambitions through such actions.

    “There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us, yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” he said.

    “What is happening today is the handiwork of the opposition. They have failed. Is it by kidnapping children? Then who are you going to govern? There will be nobody for you to govern.”

    He urged those responsible to allow governments at all levels to focus on governance and development.

    Tinubu’s Policies Yielding Results, Governor Says

    Okpebholo also defended President Tinubu’s administration, arguing that the president had achieved more than previous administrations.

    He pointed to ongoing projects in Edo State as evidence of the benefits arising from federal economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy.

    The governor maintained that the impact of the policy was becoming visible through infrastructure development and increased government investments.

    APC Targets Strong Performance in Council Polls

    Okpebholo congratulated candidates who emerged from the APC primaries ahead of the local government elections, expressing confidence in the party’s chances.

    He said strong performances at the grassroots level would strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    According to him, the APC remains committed to delivering what he described as the 2.5 million votes promised to President Tinubu in the next presidential election.

    Party Chairman Expresses Confidence

    Speaking at the event, Edo APC chairman Jarrett Tenebe described the ruling party as the dominant political force in the state.

    He urged candidates to campaign on the achievements of the Okpebholo administration and take the message of development to communities across Edo State.

  • INEC Holds Party Stakeholders Meeting Ahead of Ekiti Governorship Election, Appeals Court Judgments on Election Timetable

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has held a consultative meeting with political party leaders ahead of the Ekiti State governorship election scheduled for June 20, 2026, as part of final preparations for the poll.

    The meeting, which took place in Abuja, brought together INEC officials, national commissioners, and representatives of political parties to review readiness for the election and address outstanding concerns.

    Stakeholders Review Election Preparedness

    INEC said the engagement was part of its scheduled consultations with political parties aimed at ensuring a smooth electoral process in Ekiti State.

    The Commission noted that the discussions were focused on strengthening coordination and ensuring that all parties are aligned ahead of the poll, which is now about eleven days away.

    Officials said the meeting also provided an opportunity to fine-tune logistical arrangements and address operational issues ahead of the governorship election.

    INEC Defends Election Timetable

    Meanwhile, INEC has confirmed that it has filed appeals against two Federal High Court judgments that questioned parts of its timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections.

    INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, said the Commission believes the electoral timetable is a structured and interconnected process that cannot be selectively altered without affecting the entire electoral calendar.

    He made the remarks during the Commission’s quarterly consultative meeting with political party leaders in Abuja.

    Court Judgments Under Review

    The Commission is appealing a May 20, 2026 ruling in a case filed by the Youth Party, as well as a May 26, 2026 judgment involving the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

    While the SDP ruling affirmed INEC’s authority to issue an electoral timetable, it also nullified certain timelines related to candidate nomination and substitution.

    INEC said the judgments raise important legal questions about its constitutional and statutory powers in managing elections and has therefore taken steps to seek clarification from higher courts.

    INEC Lists Key Electoral Processes

    Prof. Amupitan explained that several electoral activities operate within the broader timetable, including party primaries, nomination processes, voter education, material deployment, and configuration of election technology systems such as BVAS.

    He stressed that these processes must be harmonised to ensure transparency, efficiency and equal treatment of all political parties.

    INEC maintained that despite the legal challenges, it remains committed to conducting elections in line with the Constitution and the Electoral Act.

    Preparations for Candidate Nomination Portal

    The Commission also announced that it will issue access codes to political parties on June 26, 2026, to enable them upload candidate details through its nomination portal.

    INEC warned that the system is fully automated and will close once the submission window expires.

    The electoral body assured stakeholders that preparations for both the Ekiti governorship election and the 2027 general elections are ongoing as scheduled.

  • Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Nigeria’s Rising Debt Profile, Questions Borrowing Transparency

    The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as excessive borrowing by the Federal Government, alleging that Nigeria’s debt profile has climbed to about N200 trillion within three years.

    Obi made the claims in a statement shared on his verified X account, where he questioned the transparency and accountability surrounding the utilisation of borrowed funds.

    Concerns Over Rising Debt

    He alleged that Nigeria’s total debt has increased by over N100 trillion under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, comparing it with borrowing levels recorded under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Obi described the trend as unsustainable, warning that it could place additional pressure on the country’s economy and future generations.

    Borrowing Targets and Fiscal Questions

    Citing data from the Budget Office of the Federation, Obi claimed the government borrowed about N11.89 trillion between January and September 2025, exceeding its projected target of N10.34 trillion.

    He questioned the rationale behind the additional borrowing, arguing that such deviations should require public explanation and scrutiny.

    Questions on Capital Spending

    The former Anambra State governor also claimed that only a fraction of the borrowed funds was directed towards capital projects within the same period.

    He said about N3.10 trillion was allocated to capital expenditure, raising concerns over how the remaining funds were utilised.

    According to him, the gap between borrowing and infrastructure spending raises accountability questions that Nigerians deserve answers to.

    Call for Accountability

    Obi further questioned what became of the unaccounted portion of the borrowed funds, insisting that transparency is essential in public financial management.

    He called for greater scrutiny of government borrowing and expenditure practices.

    The Federal Government has not responded directly to the specific allegations at the time of filing this report.

    Ongoing Debt Debate

    Nigeria’s debt profile continues to generate national debate, with supporters of government borrowing arguing it is necessary for development financing, while critics warn of long-term fiscal risks.

    The discussion remains central to ongoing conversations about economic reforms and public accountability.

  • Kwankwasiyya Faction Denies Report of Kwankwaso’s Planned Exit From NDC Over Kano Candidate List

    The Kwankwasiyya faction has dismissed reports claiming that former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is planning to leave the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over alleged disputes surrounding candidate lists in Kano State.

    The clarification comes amid reports suggesting tensions within the party following the replacement of some candidates reportedly backed by the Kwankwasiyya political movement.

    Dispute Over Candidate List

    According to earlier reports, the changes in the Kano State candidate list were made as part of efforts to implement a power-sharing arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya bloc and the existing party structure.

    Party documents reportedly indicated a 60-40 arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya movement and the original NDC structure to balance influence within the state chapter.

    The adjustment allegedly triggered speculation about internal disagreements over control of party positions.

    Faction Dismisses Exit Rumours

    Reacting to the reports, Kwankwasiyya spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, described the claims as unfounded and based on social media speculation.

    “Well, this is still a rumour. It is just being circulated on social media,” he said.

    He maintained that the faction conducted its primaries in line with legal provisions and the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Primaries Conducted Without Crisis

    Mohammed explained that the primaries were held on May 29 following a consensus-building process that produced candidates for various positions.

    He said there were no objections from party members during the exercise and that the process was concluded smoothly.

    “Before that date, there were processes that led to consensus and candidates emerged for different positions. There were no complaints from party members or aspirants,” he stated.

    Kwankwaso Not Planning Exit

    The faction also insisted that there has been no internal discussion suggesting that Kwankwaso intends to leave the NDC.

    Mohammed added that the matter remains based on speculation circulating online, stressing that the leadership remains focused on party activities and ongoing political processes.

  • Senate Moves to Pass State Police Bill This Week Amid Rising Insecurity

    The Senate has announced plans to consider and pass a constitutional amendment establishing state police this week, citing growing concerns over terrorism, banditry and other security challenges across the country.

    Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, saying the proposal would be transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly after passage by the National Assembly.

    State Police Tops Senate Agenda

    Bamidele said lawmakers had reached a consensus that the establishment of state police could no longer be delayed due to the current security situation across the federation.

    According to him, the National Assembly would separate the state police proposal from other constitutional amendment bills to fast-track its passage.

    “Our position is very clear on state police. We are standing with Nigerians on the issue of state police,” he said.

    “All strata of the federation have made it clear that there cannot be a better time to establish a state police than now.”

    Constitutional Amendment Underway

    The Senate leader explained that the amendment would seek to alter Section 214(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which currently provides for only one police force in the country.

    He expressed confidence that the proposal would receive the necessary support from state legislatures once transmitted.

    “The bill can as well be on its way to the 36 State Houses of Assembly as soon as possible because we will need two-thirds of the assemblies to approve it before presidential assent,” he stated.

    Tinubu, Governors Back Proposal

    Bamidele revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors and key security stakeholders are aligned with the National Assembly on the need for state police.

    He said several consultations had taken place involving the National Assembly, the Attorney-General, the Chief of Staff to the President, security agencies and constitutional review committees.

    According to him, the Senate Committee on Constitution Review led by Barau Jibrin and the House Committee chaired by Benjamin Kalu have held extensive discussions with relevant stakeholders.

    Push for Improved Security

    The renewed effort comes amid increasing calls for decentralised policing as communities across the country continue to grapple with kidnappings, banditry and terrorist attacks.

    Earlier, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed that consultations on the constitutional framework for state police were nearing completion and that a report would be submitted to President Tinubu.

  • Oluremi Tinubu Says Nigerians Will Benefit From Ongoing Infrastructure Projects

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed confidence in the country’s future, saying ongoing infrastructure investments by the federal government will deliver lasting benefits for Nigerians.

    Speaking in a video circulating online, she acknowledged concerns over the rising cost of air travel but noted that expensive flight fares are a global challenge and not peculiar to Nigeria.

    First Lady Addresses Travel Costs

    Senator Tinubu said air transportation costs have increased in several countries, including the United States, prompting the administration to focus on expanding alternative transportation systems.

    According to her, the government is investing in coastal transport routes and rail infrastructure to improve connectivity and ease movement across the country.

    “Nigeria is such a great country and now you can see airports emerging, so I know you will say, ‘Oh, the flights are so expensive,’” she said.

    “Everywhere in the world, even in America, flights are expensive. And that’s why Mr President is doing the coastal routes, not only coastal routes, even trying to have rail lines.”

    Government Continuing Rail Projects

    The First Lady stated that the current administration remains committed to completing rail projects initiated by previous governments.

    She said continuity in infrastructure development is necessary to achieve long-term national growth.

    “And so I know the previous administration started the rail line and, you know, we continue. We continue building,” she added.

    Optimistic About Nigeria’s Future

    Senator Tinubu expressed optimism that ongoing investments in transportation and other sectors would eventually improve the lives of Nigerians.

    She said the country has enormous potential and urged citizens to remain hopeful about the future.

    “Nigeria has a huge future ahead of it and by the grace of God, very soon we all will be beneficiaries of the success of what Nigeria will become,” she said.

  • Tinubu Swears In Joseph Tegbe, Sola Enikanolaiye as New Ministers

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday swore in Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Minister of Power and Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs during a ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    The inauguration followed their confirmation by the Senate after the resignation of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to pursue governorship ambitions in their respective states.

    Swearing-In Held at Presidential Villa

    The ceremony was attended by family members of the new ministers, senior government officials and other invited guests.

    Tegbe and Enikanolaiye were nominated by President Tinubu and later screened and confirmed by the Senate on May 6, 2026.

    Their appointments fill the vacancies created by the recent cabinet reshuffle.

    Tegbe Takes Charge of Power Ministry

    Joseph Tegbe, an indigene of Ibadan in Oyo State, assumes leadership of the Ministry of Power with more than three decades of experience spanning the public and private sectors.

    Over a career lasting more than 35 years, he has been involved in economic management, public sector reforms, policy implementation and strategic planning.

    He is also known for his work in institutional development and stakeholder engagement.

    Enikanolaiye Joins Foreign Affairs Ministry

    Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, who hails from Igbagun in Kogi State, brings extensive diplomatic experience to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

    He graduated with a First Class degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he emerged as the best graduating student in his faculty.

    He later obtained a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos with distinction.

    Experienced Diplomat

    Before his appointment, Enikanolaiye served as Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Foreign Affairs and International Relations in the Office of the Chief of Staff.

    During his diplomatic career, he represented Nigeria in several countries and international missions, including Ethiopia, Serbia, Canada and the United Kingdom.

    He also served as Nigeria’s Head of Mission in New Delhi, India, before returning to the presidency.