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  • Bala Mohammed Denies Link to Jonathan 2027 Presidential Ticket

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has denied reports suggesting he is being considered as a running mate to former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The clarification follows growing online speculation linking the governor to a potential joint ticket after Jonathan was adopted as a presidential candidate by a Peoples Democratic Party faction led by Kabiru Turaki.

    Jonathan’s Candidacy Sparks Political Speculation

    Jonathan was declared the faction’s presidential candidate during a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday. Although he was absent, his Certificate of Return was received on his behalf by Bayelsa lawmaker Fred Agbedi.

    Shortly after the convention, claims emerged on social media suggesting that Bala Mohammed had been picked as a possible vice-presidential candidate.

    The speculation was further amplified by political commentary online, triggering widespread debate within opposition circles.

    Mohammed Rejects Claims

    In a statement posted on his verified X account, the Bauchi governor dismissed the reports as false and misleading.

    “Thank you for your interest in my political aspirations. However, for the sake of clarity, my focus remains firmly on contesting for the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),” he wrote.

    He urged the public to disregard any information linking him to a different political arrangement, describing such claims as speculative and inaccurate.

    Focus on Senatorial Ambition

    Mohammed also reiterated that his current political priority is the Bauchi South senatorial seat under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), following his reported departure from the Peoples Democratic Party amid internal party tensions.

    He maintained that his attention remains on his immediate political plans rather than national-level negotiations.

    The development comes amid ongoing realignments within opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • Tinubu Condoles Oyo Victims, Vows Safe Return of Abducted Pupils

    President Bola Tinubu has expressed sympathy with families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring them that efforts to secure the victims’ release will continue.

    In a statement released on Monday, the President said no child should be taken from the safety of a classroom, as concern grows over the May 15 attack on communities in Esiele and Yawota.

    Tinubu Commiserates With Families

    The President said he shares in the pain and anxiety of affected families following the abduction, which has attracted nationwide attention and renewed concerns about school security.

    “No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu said.

    He also extended condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher killed during the attack.

    “I also extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” he added.

    FG Promises Sustained Rescue Efforts

    Tinubu assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue coordinated efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the operation will be intelligence-driven and supported by both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.

    “Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.

    High-Level Delegation Visits Communities

    The President’s statement comes after a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

    The visit followed renewed calls for urgent action as families continue to await the release of the victims.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier visited the communities and assured residents that his administration would take all lawful measures to secure the release of those still in captivity.

  • Deji Adeyanju Faces Backlash After Blaming Peter Obi for Tinubu’s 2027 Chances

    Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has come under heavy criticism after accusing opposition figures, particularly Peter Obi, of helping President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Adeyanju made the remarks while commenting on the country’s worsening insecurity and kidnapping crisis, arguing that a divided opposition could once again weaken efforts to unseat the ruling party.

    Adeyanju Points Finger at Opposition

    In a statement shared online, Adeyanju said opposition leaders risk repeating the mistakes of the 2023 election by failing to unite.

    According to him, ongoing divisions among opposition figures could split votes and create a pathway for Tinubu to secure a second term in office.

    “If Tinubu gets re-elected in 2027, blame Peter Obi and the other contractor-general. With all the insecurity and kidnapping in the country, they are the ones aggressively working for his second term by ensuring opposition votes are divided like they did in 2023,” he wrote.

    Social Media Users Push Back

    His comments quickly triggered reactions across social media, with many Nigerians rejecting his position and questioning why opposition figures should be blamed for the country’s current challenges.

    One user, identified as Abraham, accused Adeyanju of offering criticism without presenting solutions.

    “Oga, rest, what is your own contribution toward getting a better deal in 2027? Nothing whatsoever than to come out here and insult everyone without any suggestion,” he wrote.

    Another commenter, D’xtaga, defended Peter Obi, insisting that the former Labour Party presidential candidate remains one of the strongest political figures in the country.

    “Who’s the most popular southern candidate with the best chance of winning if elections are held today?” he asked.

    Debate Over 2027 Election Intensifies

    Some Nigerians linked the current wave of insecurity to political developments ahead of the next election cycle.

    Akins Boy argued that similar security concerns emerged before previous elections, suggesting that the current situation should be viewed in a broader political context.

    Others maintained that public attention should remain focused on the performance of the current administration rather than opposition figures.

    Obi Supporters Reject Allegations

    Supporters of Peter Obi were among the strongest critics of Adeyanju’s remarks, insisting that responsibility for insecurity and economic hardship rests with those currently in government.

    One commenter, Damilare, accused Adeyanju of turning Obi into a scapegoat.

    “Why is all the blame on Peter Obi? People are making him the scapegoat for the incompetence of this government. Anyone in their right state of mind won’t vote Tinubu in 2027 with all the happenings in the country,” he said.

    Another user, Ade, argued that President Tinubu could face a difficult re-election battle despite assumptions about his support base.

    The exchange highlights growing political tensions as conversations around the 2027 presidential election continue to gain momentum amid concerns over insecurity, governance and economic hardship in Nigeria.

  • Tinubu Sends Ribadu, Gbajabiamila, Security Chiefs to Oyo Abduction Scene as Pressure Mounts on Rescue Efforts

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a high-level federal delegation, led by National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, to communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of students and teachers in a coordinated attack.

    The visit comes two weeks after armed men reportedly stormed schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota axis, abducting more than 45 students, alongside six teachers and a principal in a morning raid that has continued to trigger nationwide concern.

    Federal Delegation Arrives Oyo Communities

    According to visuals circulating online, members of the delegation were seen arriving in the affected communities amid tight security presence.

    The team includes key federal officials such as the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and presidential aide Sunday Dare.

    In a post on X, Sunday Dare said President Tinubu had activated coordinated efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims and tracking down the attackers.

    He wrote that the delegation was deployed to the Ogbomoso axis, which falls under the Oriire Local Government Area, describing the attack as a serious national security concern requiring immediate intervention.

    Makinde’s Earlier Visit

    The federal visit follows an earlier visit by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who met with families of the abducted victims and assured residents that both state and federal security agencies were working to secure their release.

    Makinde had pledged that all legal and operational measures would be deployed to ensure the safe return of the students and teachers.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The attack has intensified concerns over school safety and rural insecurity in parts of the state, with growing calls for stronger protection of educational institutions and faster response mechanisms during such incidents.

    Security agencies have continued operations in the area as pressure mounts on authorities to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

  • Wike Mocks Aisha Yesufu Over Failed FCT Senate Bid in NDC Primary

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at activist Aisha Yesufu following her inability to emerge as the senatorial candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the FCT ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Wike made the remarks on Saturday during a luncheon for candidates of the Rainbow Coalition in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    He mocked the outspoken activist, describing her as someone who speaks “grammar” but could not secure victory in what he called a simple party primary.

    Wike’s Remarks

    According to Wike, Yesufu had previously criticised him as a government appointee, insisting she had no business engaging with political office holders.

    He said:

    “There’s one woman who said Wike is an appointee of government and that she has no business with appointees. You speak grammar, speak grammar.

    “Ordinary primary of NDC, not APC or PDP, just ordinary NDC, what happened? She didn’t make it.

    “It’s easy for people to talk. When they enter into those media houses, they begin to churn out data from nowhere.

    “Now, the time for data has come. What happened? Fa fa fa foul. It didn’t work. If e didn’t dey? E didn’t dey.”

    Background to the Dispute

    Aisha Yesufu had earlier accused the NDC of undermining its internal democratic process in the selection of its FCT senatorial candidate, alleging that the exercise was manipulated to favour a predetermined outcome.

    Her comments and political involvement have continued to generate reactions across political and civic spaces, especially as the build-up to the 2027 elections intensifies.

  • APC Tells Makinde to Resign Over Security Comments, Says Governor Has Failed Oyo

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has criticised Governor Seyi Makinde over his recent comments on insecurity, accusing him of failing in his responsibility to protect lives and property in the state.

    The opposition party also called on the governor to resign and allow his deputy complete the remaining year of the administration.

    APC Rejects Makinde’s Position

    In a statement issued in Ibadan by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, the APC faulted Makinde’s remarks that governors have limited control over security agencies because they are under federal authority.

    The party described the governor’s position as an attempt to shift responsibility amid growing concerns over insecurity, particularly following the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    According to the APC, Makinde’s comments reflected what it described as a lack of leadership at a critical time for the state.

    Security Debate Deepens

    Makinde recently renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that governors often bear responsibility for security challenges without having direct control over security agencies.

    The governor made the remarks while addressing members of the Allied Peoples Movement during its primary election in Ibadan.

    He maintained that empowering states to establish and manage their own police structures would improve responses to security threats across the country.

    APC Cites Previous Administrations

    The opposition party argued that previous governors operated under the same constitutional framework without facing the level of insecurity currently affecting parts of Oyo State.

    The APC specifically referenced former governors including the late Lam Adesina, Rasheed Ladoja, the late Adebayo Alao-Akala and the late Abiola Ajimobi.

    According to the party, Ajimobi strengthened security through the establishment of a security trust fund and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

    Calls for Resignation

    APC further claimed that Makinde’s presidential ambition was distracting him from governance and alleged that his handling of security issues had exposed weaknesses in his administration.

    The party insisted that if the governor believes he lacks the authority to effectively tackle insecurity, he should step aside.

    “Makinde has failed to demonstrate the leadership qualities required at this critical period and should resign from office immediately,” the statement said.

    State Police Remains Key Issue

    The exchange highlights the growing debate over state policing in Nigeria, with supporters arguing that decentralised policing would improve security, while critics remain concerned about potential political abuse and constitutional implications.

    The discussion has gained renewed attention following recent kidnappings involving teachers and students in parts of Oyo State.

  • Makinde Accepts APM Presidential Ticket, Promises State Police and Security Reforms

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has accepted the presidential nomination of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) for the 2027 general election, pledging to prioritise security reforms and restore public confidence in governance.

    Makinde received the party’s certificate of return and flag during a ceremony held in Ibadan after delegates reportedly endorsed him as the party’s consensus candidate.

    Makinde Accepts Nomination

    Speaking after receiving the nomination, Makinde said his decision to run was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to address Nigeria’s challenges through practical leadership and transparent governance.

    According to him, the country needs leaders who can rebuild trust and deliver results that directly impact ordinary citizens.

    He said his administration’s experience in Oyo State had shown that meaningful reforms are possible when leaders remain accountable to the people.

    Security Takes Centre Stage

    A major focus of Makinde’s speech was insecurity, which he described as one of the country’s most pressing challenges.

    The governor referenced the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen killed a teacher and abducted students and educators.

    Makinde argued that governors often lack sufficient constitutional powers to respond effectively to security emergencies despite being regarded as chief security officers of their states.

    Push For State Police

    The Oyo governor reiterated his support for state policing, insisting that Nigeria’s current security structure requires urgent reform.

    According to him, decentralising security operations and granting more authority to state governments would improve response times and strengthen efforts to protect lives and property.

    He maintained that localised security solutions remain critical to tackling kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes across the country.

    Supporters Back Reform Agenda

    Supporters at the event described Makinde’s emergence as an opportunity to advance conversations around governance reform, security and economic development.

    His nomination adds another prominent name to the growing list of politicians being linked with the 2027 presidential race.

  • Jonathan Emerges PDP Faction’s 2027 Presidential Candidate Amid Convention Drama

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emerged as the presidential candidate of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party for the 2027 general election.

    The former Nigerian leader was ratified as the faction’s candidate during a special national convention organised by the group led by Kabiru Turaki in Abuja on Saturday.

    Jonathan Ratified in Absentia

    Although Jonathan was absent from the convention, delegates unanimously endorsed his candidacy.

    His certificate of return was received on his behalf by Fred Agbedi, a member of the House of Representatives representing Bayelsa State.

    Party officials said a date would be announced later for the formal presentation of the party’s flag to the former president.

    Convention Venue Changed After Police Blockade

    The Turaki-led faction had initially scheduled the convention to hold at the A-Class Park and Event Centre in Abuja.

    However, the event faced a setback after the Federal Capital Territory Administration directed hotel and event centre operators to deal only with political party leaderships recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    The PDP faction aligned with Nyesom Wike is currently the group recognised by INEC.

    Police officers reportedly blocked access roads leading to the original venue on Saturday morning, forcing organisers to relocate the gathering.

    Delegates Meet at Party Office

    Following the disruption, party officials moved the convention to the faction’s office in Area 10, Garki District, Abuja.

    Delegates later assembled at the new venue and proceeded with the convention, where Jonathan’s nomination was formally ratified.

    Fresh Twist in PDP Leadership Crisis

    The development adds another layer to the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, where multiple factions continue to battle over the party’s structure and control ahead of the 2027 elections.

    It remains unclear whether Jonathan will formally accept the nomination, as the former president has not publicly commented on the development.

  • Tinubu Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal, Says Nigeria Escaped Bankruptcy

    President Bola Tinubu has defended his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidy, stating that the move saved Nigeria from imminent bankruptcy and helped stabilise the economy.

    The President made the remarks on Friday while hosting state governors at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.

    Tinubu Says Reforms Prevented Economic Collapse

    According to Tinubu, the subsidy removal was a difficult but necessary decision that faced strong opposition, legal battles and public criticism.

    “It was challenging at the time, but we survived. We faced litigation and accusations. We survived them. Instead of bankruptcy, Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered. It is growing. Agriculture is booming,” the President said.

    He argued that the fuel subsidy regime drained public resources while benefiting only a small segment of the population.

    President Highlights Economic Gains

    Tinubu said ongoing reforms in infrastructure, agriculture, social investments, fiscal management and foreign exchange policies are beginning to produce positive results.

    “I’m glad governors are no longer borrowing from the federal government and asking for interventions and not knowing how to survive, how to pay salaries, no more,” he said.

    The President added that construction projects are progressing nationwide, abandoned roads are being rehabilitated, and the housing sector is experiencing renewed growth.

    He also expressed optimism that Nigeria could achieve food sovereignty if states fully utilise available agricultural land.

    Sokoto-Badagry Highway Cited as Key Project

    Tinubu pointed to the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway project as a major economic corridor with vast opportunities for agriculture, irrigation and electricity generation.

    “Imagine how many dams on that corridor for irrigation, for farmland, for electricity,” he said.

    The President thanked governors for supporting his administration’s reforms and encouraging Nigerians to remain patient through the economic adjustment period.

    Shettima Praises Tinubu’s Courage

    Vice President Kashim Shettima described the reforms as a bold effort to address long-standing structural problems in the country.

    “You chose not to postpone the surgery. You chose not to massage the wound. You chose to confront the contradictions that have held this country hostage for 50 years,” Shettima said.

    He added that the administration was engaged in the difficult task of rebuilding and repositioning the nation for long-term growth.

    Governors Back Tinubu’s Policies

    Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the reforms had improved state finances and reduced dependence on borrowing.

    “I think the nation was shocked by the audacity of Mr President to implement that serious policy, but today, it has benefited immensely from that policy,” he said.

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma also praised Tinubu’s performance, claiming that governors had assessed the administration positively.

    “You have virtually recovered Nigeria from the brink of collapse to a state of stability and survival,” Uzodinma said.

    Several governors attended the meeting, including those from Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Benue and Kogi states.

  • Atiku Slams Tinubu’s Three Years in Office, Says Nigerians Face Hunger, Insecurity

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, saying the government’s three years in office have brought hardship, insecurity, poverty and hopelessness to Nigerians.

    Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the remarks in a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

    Atiku Says Nigerians Have Seen “Enough”

    The former vice president accused the Tinubu administration of relying on propaganda and political deception instead of addressing the realities facing ordinary Nigerians.

    “Three years ago, President Tinubu promised renewed hope. What Nigerians have received instead is renewed hardship, renewed insecurity, renewed poverty, and renewed hopelessness,” Atiku stated.

    According to him, rising inflation, unemployment, naira depreciation and the collapse of businesses have worsened living conditions across the country.

    He added that food prices had become unaffordable for many households, deepening economic hardship nationwide.

    Questions Over Government Borrowing

    Atiku also criticised the Federal Government’s borrowing under Tinubu’s administration, questioning the impact of the loans on citizens’ lives.

    He alleged that public records showed the government borrowed about ₦11.9 trillion within nine months but spent only ₦3.1 trillion on capital projects.

    “Nigerians are therefore entitled to ask a simple question: where did the rest of the money go?” he asked.

    The ADC flagbearer further raised concerns over infrastructure spending, alleging that projects appeared to favour politically connected interests.

    Insecurity Remains Major Concern

    Atiku said the continued cases of kidnappings and attacks across the country reflected the administration’s failure in addressing insecurity.

    He referenced the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Borno State and the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    “What greater evidence of failure can there be than parents sending their children to school only to receive news that they have been abducted?” he said.

    According to him, the incidents showed that many communities across Nigeria remain unsafe despite repeated government assurances.

    “No Amount Of Propaganda Can Hide Reality”

    The former vice president argued that governance should be judged by the experiences of citizens and not official statements from government officials.

    “No amount of propaganda can fill an empty stomach. No amount of spin can erase insecurity,” he stated.

    He urged Nigerians to use the ballot box to demand change in future elections, insisting that citizens have the constitutional power to decide the country’s direction.

    “The ballot box remains the most powerful weapon in the hands of the people,” Atiku added.

    ADC Promises Alternative Policy Blueprint

    Atiku disclosed that the ADC would soon unveil a comprehensive policy document focused on tackling insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment and institutional failure.

    According to him, the proposed blueprint would cover economic recovery, job creation, education, healthcare, fiscal discipline and security reforms.

    He also pledged that his campaign would focus on competence, ideas and practical solutions rather than propaganda and political insults.

    The statement comes as President Tinubu marks his third anniversary in office amid continued debate over the state of Nigeria’s economy and security situation.