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  • Peter Obi Appeals for Release of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren, Cites Governance Failures

    Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has appealed to the abductors of schoolchildren kidnapped in Oyo State to release them immediately, describing their ordeal as a painful reflection of the country’s deepening insecurity.

    In a statement on Wednesday, Obi said he was devastated after seeing images of the abducted children, whose bodies reportedly showed signs of severe flogging and abuse while in captivity.

    Obi Expresses Shock Over Children’s Condition

    The former Anambra State governor said the condition of the children highlights the alarming security situation in Nigeria and the dangers facing young people across the country.

    “I am deeply shocked and heartbroken by the condition in which these abducted school children are, as seen from their flagellated bodies. It is a painful reminder of the depth of insecurity in our land,” he said.

    Obi added that the incident reinforced concerns he has repeatedly raised about the long-term consequences of societal neglect and poor governance.

    Links Insecurity to Leadership Challenges

    According to Obi, many of Nigeria’s present challenges are the result of years of poor leadership and policy failures.

    “I have always made it clear that the society we abuse today will take its revenge on our children tomorrow. When I first began making that statement, some of these children were not even born,” he stated.

    He argued that the suffering of the abducted pupils demonstrates how governance failures eventually affect future generations.

    The former presidential candidate also reiterated his concerns about public borrowing, warning that decisions taken today could impose heavy burdens on younger Nigerians in years to come.

    “This is a classic example of how the abuse of governance and society today can produce devastating consequences long after the abusers are gone,” he said.

    Direct Appeal to Kidnappers

    Obi urged those holding the children captive to consider the innocence of their victims and the pain being experienced by their families.

    “Remember that these are innocent children, sons and daughters of people who have placed their hopes, dreams, and entire future in them. In every one of them, you will find reflections of your own children, your own family, and your own humanity,” he said.

    He stressed that no grievance or hardship could justify inflicting suffering on innocent children.

    “No grievance, no hardship, no justification can ever outweigh the sanctity of a child’s life and innocence,” Obi added.

    Calls for Immediate Release

    Obi concluded his message with an emotional appeal for the children’s safe return.

    “I therefore appeal to your sense of mercy: release these children immediately. Let them go. Return them safely to society to reunite with their families.”

  • APC Demands Rescue of Adelabu’s Sister, Faults Makinde Over Rising Insecurity in Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the abduction of Mrs. Busayo Adelabu John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and her twin sons in Ibadan.

    The party called on Governor Seyi Makinde to work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to address the growing security challenges across the state.

    APC Raises Concern Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC described the incident as alarming, especially as several kidnapping cases in the state remain unresolved.

    The party noted that the abduction occurred amid ongoing concerns over the fate of schoolchildren and teachers kidnapped in Oriire Local Government Area, as well as two staff members of the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) in Oluyole Local Government Area.

    According to reports, Mrs. John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons were abducted by gunmen at Elewura-Challenge in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area.

    Call for Immediate Rescue

    APC urged authorities at all levels of government to review and strengthen the state’s security architecture to better protect residents.

    “We demand immediate rescue of all Oriire school abductees, two CRIN staff, Mrs. Busayo John-Paul and her children, as well as others who are in captivity at the moment,” the statement said.

    The party also called for coordinated efforts between government and security agencies to curb the increasing cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in Oyo State.

    Criticism of State Government

    Sadare argued that residents were living in fear due to the worsening security situation and urged Governor Makinde to seek additional support where necessary.

    “No citizen deserves to live in perpetual fear and anxiety as is the situation with the residents of Oyo at the moment,” he said.

    He added that insecurity had reached an unprecedented level in the state and warned that urgent intervention was needed to prevent further deterioration.

    Police Investigation Ongoing

    The Oyo State Police Command had earlier confirmed that investigations were underway into the abduction of Mrs. John-Paul and her children.

    Police spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade said security operatives had launched efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible.

  • Datti Baba-Ahmed Says He Joined Peter Obi in 2023 Out of Sympathy After Failed Alliances

    Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has revealed that his decision to run alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election was partly driven by sympathy, following what he described as failed alliance attempts by the former presidential candidate.

    Baba-Ahmed made the disclosure during an interview on Symfoni, where he spoke about the political dynamics that shaped the Labour Party’s 2023 ticket.

    Failed Political Alliances

    According to him, Peter Obi approached three influential politicians in 2022 in an attempt to build broader support ahead of the election, but the efforts did not succeed.

    He said the situation influenced his personal decision to step in as Obi’s running mate, describing it as a response shaped by both sympathy and concern for the country’s political direction.

    Baba-Ahmed, however, declined to disclose the identities of the politicians involved or the reasons they reportedly turned down the offer.

    Clarifies Political Independence

    The former senator also dismissed suggestions that he is politically tied to Obi or obligated to follow him into any future political arrangement, including any emerging coalition platforms.

    He stressed that his decision in 2023 was personal and based on his interpretation of Nigeria’s political situation at the time.

    Baba-Ahmed added that while he worked with Obi during the election, he remains an independent political actor with no binding political obligation to the former Anambra governor.

    The comments add a new layer to ongoing discussions around the 2023 Labour Party presidential campaign and internal dynamics within Nigeria’s opposition politics.

  • PDP Tackles Keyamo Over Comments on Jonathan’s 2027 Ambition

    The Peoples Democratic Party has criticised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, over his comments advising former President Goodluck Jonathan not to accept any presidential nomination ahead of the 2027 election.

    The opposition party accused Keyamo of meddling in its internal affairs and questioned his authority to determine Jonathan’s political future.

    PDP Questions Keyamo’s Position

    In a statement,  PDP said it would ordinarily have ignored the minister’s remarks but chose to respond because of what it described as growing anxiety within the ruling All Progressives Congress over calls for Jonathan’s possible return to national leadership.

    The party argued that Keyamo’s comments were inconsistent with his past role as a public interest lawyer and activist.

    “It is rather ironic that Festus Keyamo, a man who built his public profile through relentless criticism of governments and public office holders, now seeks to deny others the very democratic space he once occupied with such enthusiasm,” the statement said.

    Focus on Governance, PDP Tells Minister

     PDP said Nigerians remember Keyamo as a vocal critic of those in authority and questioned why he now appeared uncomfortable with political parties exercising their constitutional rights.

    The party urged the minister to concentrate on issues affecting the aviation sector rather than opposition politics.

    “Instead of concerning himself with the internal affairs of the PDP, the Minister would do well to devote his energy to addressing the numerous challenges confronting the aviation sector and the wider administration of which he is a part,” the statement added.

    Jonathan’s Record Defended

    PDP also defended Jonathan’s administration, arguing that many Nigerians still remember his tenure positively.

    According to the party, the former president presided over a period marked by political stability, economic growth and increased investor confidence.

    “The obvious nervousness that has greeted President Jonathan’s candidacy is understandable because Nigerians have not forgotten that under his administration, the country enjoyed political stability, sustained economic growth, increased foreign investor confidence and a more inclusive national atmosphere,” the party stated.

    Party Dismisses Political Pressure

    PDP maintained that no form of political pressure would stop Nigerians from supporting candidates of their choice in future elections.

    It added that as the country moves closer to another election cycle, many citizens are seeking capable and unifying leaders who can address the nation’s economic and security challenges.

    The party concluded by advising Keyamo to focus on helping the government tackle pressing national issues rather than offering what it described as unsolicited political advice to Jonathan.

  • Tinubu to Address National Assembly on June 12 for Democracy Day

    President Bola Tinubu will deliver a joint address to the National Assembly on June 12 as part of activities lined up for Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day celebration.

    The announcement was made on Tuesday during the inauguration of the inter-ministerial committee responsible for organising the national event.

    Akume Unveils Democracy Day Plans

    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, inaugurated the committee at the Shehu Shagari Complex in Abuja.

    According to Akume, the President’s address to lawmakers will be one of the major highlights of the Democracy Day programme.

    He described the annual celebration as an opportunity to honour Nigerians who played significant roles in the struggle for democratic governance.

    Tribute to June 12 Heroes

    Akume paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993 democratic struggle, including the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola.

    He said Democracy Day remains an important occasion for reflecting on the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and citizens who fought for the return of civilian rule.

    The SGF added that the anniversary would also provide an opportunity for the Federal Government to highlight efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and promoting national development.

    Schedule of Activities

    Akume urged members of the committee to commence work immediately, noting that only a few days remain before the celebration.

    Activities approved for the 27th Democracy Day anniversary include a world press conference on June 4, special Juma’at prayers on June 5 and an interdenominational church service on June 7.

    A Democracy Day public lecture is scheduled for June 9, while programmes focused on youth and women will take place on June 10.

    In addition to the National Assembly address, President Tinubu is also expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast on June 12.

  • Oborevwori Explains Why Deltans Should Back Tinubu in 2027

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has said it would be wrong for Deltans to vote against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing the President’s family connection to the state through First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

    Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, the governor argued that Tinubu enjoys a unique relationship with Delta State that goes beyond politics and should earn him support from the people.

    Tinubu Has Family Ties to Delta, Says Governor

    Oborevwori described the President as an in-law to the state and suggested that the relationship should influence voting decisions in 2027.

    “The man is an in-law here, and it would be evil to vote against your in-law. It’s a family affair,” the governor said.

    He added that many people in the South-South region now regard Tinubu as one of their own because of his connection to the area.

    First Lady’s Influence

    The governor also linked growing support for the President in Delta State to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s roots and relationship with the people.

    “The First Lady is holding the state strong, and no Itsekiri person will vote against Tinubu. No Urhobo man will because their son is the governor,” he stated.

    His comments come months after the First Lady received a traditional title in the Warri Kingdom.

    In February 2026, Oluremi Tinubu was installed as Utukpa-Oritse, also known as Ugbone, meaning “Light of God,” by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

    Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms

    Oborevwori also defended the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that federal reforms have increased revenue available to states and supported development projects.

    “Sometimes when I commission projects and say we have money, it is because of the reforms. If they were not working, we would not have funds,” he said.

    The governor maintained that the impact of the reforms is reflected in the improved financial capacity of state governments to execute projects and meet development goals.

  • Oluremi Tinubu Speaks on Political Career, Calls Herself ‘Silent Worker’

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has reflected on her political journey, describing herself as a silent worker who focuses on results rather than public praise for her achievements.

    She made the remarks during a recent interview with journalists, where she responded to questions about her political record and contributions to governance.

    Tinubu Highlights Senate Record

    Oluremi Tinubu pointed to her years in the National Assembly, noting her service as Senator representing Lagos Central for three consecutive terms.

    She said her political journey has been defined by service and consistency, stressing that she prefers not to celebrate her own achievements publicly.

    “I wasn’t going to address it, but now that you’re putting me on the spot. I have ran elections. I am the first woman to be in the Senate three times. I don’t sing my own praise, but I am a silent worker,” she stated.

    Focus on Service, Not Recognition

    The First Lady added that her approach to leadership has always been centred on delivering impact rather than seeking recognition.

    She maintained that her contributions in public service speak for themselves through her years in elected office.

    Oluremi Tinubu served as Senator for Lagos Central before assuming the role of First Lady following the election of President Bola Tinubu.

  • Fayose Alleges Oyo Kidnap May Be Plot to Embarrass Tinubu

    Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, has alleged that the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu, a claim that has added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding the attack.

    Fayose made the allegation on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, where he questioned the timing of events surrounding the kidnapping and the political activities of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

    Fayose Questions Timing of Incident

    According to Fayose, the circumstances surrounding the abduction raised suspicions about possible political motives aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration.

    He argued that Governor Makinde appeared more focused on political activities linked to his party’s nomination process before publicly engaging with the families of the victims.

    “And I want to say to you in Oyo State, I have a strong belief, I may be wrong, that this sometimes can be orchestrated,” Fayose said.

    “The Governor of Oyo State had his nomination, the nomination of his candidate in the face of this abduction. He did not take any action, no steps were taken. It was after all those nominations that he went to the family to visit them.”

    Comparison With Jonathan Era

    Fayose also claimed that the incident was being used in a manner similar to how insecurity became a major issue during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    He maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had inherited significant challenges from previous administrations and was making efforts to address them.

    “I can sometimes believe that this was orchestrated in a way, I’m not saying totally, by the government of Oyo State to blackmail President Tinubu,” he added.

    Background to the Abduction

    Armed men riding motorcycles attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School, and L.A Primary School in Esiele, all located in Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15.

    Police confirmed that an assistant headmaster, Mr Adesiyan, was killed during the attack. An okada rider was also reportedly shot dead after resisting attempts by the attackers to seize his motorcycle.

    Governor Seyi Makinde later disclosed that 25 students and seven teachers were abducted, while one teacher, Michael Oyedokun, was killed by the attackers. Videos circulated online later showed that the teacher was beheaded.

    Makinde’s Response

    Makinde has repeatedly condemned the attack and said the state government was prepared to explore all lawful options to secure the release of the victims.

    Addressing journalists in Ibadan, the governor said the government was willing to listen to the abductors’ demands if it would help secure the safe return of those in captivity.

    He also announced the establishment of an operational situation room at the Oyo State Police Command headquarters to coordinate rescue efforts and provide verified information to the public.

    Meanwhile, President Tinubu has directed security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.

  • Atiku Camp Rejects Babachir Lawal’s Rigging Allegation

    The camp of African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rejected allegations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, that the party’s presidential primary was manipulated.

    Lawal had announced his exit from the party on Monday, claiming the primary election was rigged in favour of Atiku.

    Atiku’s Aide Demands Evidence

    Responding to the allegation, Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phark Shaibu, said Lawal failed to provide any evidence to support his claims.

    “Having chosen to malign a democratic process, insult thousands of ADC members nationwide, and make grave allegations without presenting a shred of evidence, it has become necessary to set the record straight,” Shaibu said.

    According to him, the primary election was conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear outcome that reflected the wishes of party members.

    “The truth is straightforward. The ADC presidential primaries were conducted across thousands of wards and produced a clear and decisive outcome. What Mr Lawal has offered Nigerians is not evidence,” he added.

    Questions Over Adamawa Outcome

    Shaibu also questioned Lawal’s criticism of the process, noting that the same primary election produced a result favourable to his family in Adamawa State.

    He referenced the emergence of Omar Suleiman, described as Lawal’s cousin, as the ADC governorship candidate in the state.

    “Nigerians are entitled to ask whether the process was only credible when it favoured his family and only rigged when it produced a presidential candidate he did not support,” Shaibu said.

    Religious Allegation Dismissed

    The Atiku camp also rejected Lawal’s allegation that the former vice president was pursuing a religious agenda.

    Shaibu argued that Lawal had turned to identity politics after failing to convince party members to support his preferred candidate.

    “Having failed to persuade ADC members to embrace his preferred candidate, he now seeks refuge in the divisive politics of identity,” he said.

    He added that such arguments do not address the economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.

    2027 Election Will Be Decided by Voters

    Shaibu maintained that Atiku’s public record and business achievements remain well known to Nigerians, describing him as committed to national unity and economic reforms.

    He stressed that the outcome of the 2027 election would ultimately be determined by voters rather than post-primary disputes.

    “The 2027 election will not be decided by tantrums, ethnic dog whistles, recycled grievances, or revisionist history. It will be decided by the Nigerian people,” he said.

  • Wike Questions ADC, NDC Credibility Over Primary Election Disputes

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticised opposition parties over controversies surrounding their congresses and primary elections, saying recent developments have exposed their claims of promoting internal democracy.

    Wike made the remarks during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Monday while commenting on disputes that emerged from recent exercises conducted by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Wike Questions Opposition’s Claims

    According to the former Rivers State governor, opposition parties had consistently accused larger political parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of imposing candidates on members.

    He argued that the same allegations are now being directed at parties that previously presented themselves as a better alternative.

    “You hear people talk about a particular party not doing something and promise that they are going to change the pattern. You have accused the APC of imposition, the PDP of imposition,” Wike said.

    “Now you have formed a new party, a new baby, a righteous baby. The messiah, the saviour that would come, what has happened now?”

    ADC, NDC Come Under Criticism

    Wike cited disputes that followed congresses and primary elections in ADC and NDC, saying the controversies weakened their public image.

    “ADC said they are the new face of democracy; they said it’s the kind of party that has not been polluted. What has happened is so dirty,” he said.

    “See what is happening in NDC. As small as they are, they cannot do a primary without protest.”

    The minister also referred to complaints raised by aspirants during party exercises, describing them as evidence of internal problems.

    Reference to ADC Presidential Primary

    Wike specifically mentioned the ADC presidential primary, which was rejected by presidential aspirants Rotimi Amaechi and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen over alleged irregularities and voter disenfranchisement.

    “Look at ADC, which said it’s a coalition to take over. While the congress was going on, two presidential aspirants came to say we cannot believe this, saying it’s criminality of the highest order, which tells you who is deceiving whom,” he said.

    Preference for Established Parties

    The FCT minister said Nigerians should assess political parties based on their actions rather than campaign promises.

    “Nigerians now know that you are all liars,” he added.

    Wike maintained that older political parties, despite their shortcomings, have gained experience in managing Nigeria’s political system.

    “My assessment is that I prefer the old parties that are already there. They have tested it and know what the Nigerian culture is all about,” he said.