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Tag: 2027 Election

  • Datti Baba-Ahmed Questions Obi’s Readiness for 2027, Criticises Exit from Labour Party

    Former vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has raised concerns about Peter Obi’s political direction ahead of the 2027 presidential election, questioning his readiness for the challenges ahead.

    The comments come amid recent political realignments involving key opposition figures.

    Datti faults Obi’s party exit

    Speaking in an interview shared online, Baba-Ahmed criticised Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party.

    He said Obi should have remained to address internal challenges rather than walk away.

    “As much as I dislike what the APC has done against Nigerians, someone who got the Labour Party’s ticket so easily should have stayed to fix the problem,” he said.

    Questions over leadership approach

    Baba-Ahmed also questioned Obi’s approach to political disputes, suggesting it may not reflect the resilience required for national leadership.

    “My former leader saying that wherever there is a quarrel, he will walk away? If there is a quarrel in Nigeria, will he walk away?” he asked.

    “If you are not ready to fight, stay in your house,” he added.

    Doubts over alliance strength

    The former lawmaker further expressed reservations about a potential alliance involving Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

    He suggested that such a ticket could struggle to gain traction in northern Nigeria.

    The remarks follow reports of both politicians moving from the African Democratic Congress to the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

    Growing political tension

    The development highlights ongoing shifts within the opposition as parties reposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Analysts say such internal criticisms could shape discussions around coalition building and candidate selection in the coming months.

  • PDP Interim NEC Unveils 2026 Primary Timetable, Sets Nomination Fees Ahead of Party Primaries

    The interim National Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party has approved its 2026 pre-election timetable and nomination guidelines ahead of the party’s primaries.

    The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the party’s interim leadership, outlining key dates and fees for aspirants.

    Timetable for primaries released

    According to the statement, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 5 to May 13, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 14, followed by screening of aspirants from May 15 to May 18.

    The party fixed May 21 for screening appeals, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 22.

    Ward primaries are expected to hold on May 27, with appeals on the exercise slated for May 28.

    A National Executive Committee meeting to approve candidates will take place on May 29, while a special convention for ratification is set for May 30.

    Breakdown of nomination fees

    The PDP also released the cost of forms for various elective positions.

    For State House of Assembly, the expression of interest form is pegged at ₦500,000, while the nomination form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are to pay ₦2 million for expression of interest and ₦5 million for nomination.

    Senate forms are priced at ₦3 million and ₦7 million respectively.

    Governorship aspirants will pay ₦5 million for expression of interest and ₦35 million for nomination, while the presidential forms are pegged at ₦10 million and ₦90 million.

    Concessions for women, youths

    The party announced that women will only pay for expression of interest forms, as nomination forms are free for them.

    Youths and persons living with disabilities are to enjoy a 50 percent discount on nomination forms across all positions.

    The move, according to the party, is aimed at encouraging broader participation in the political process.

    Fresh division emerges within PDP

    Meanwhile, a faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced a separate date for the party’s presidential primaries.

    The group fixed May 23, 2026, for its exercise, indicating ongoing divisions within the party structure.

    The parallel moves highlight the deepening leadership crisis within the PDP as preparations intensify for the next election cycle.

  • ADC Unveils 2026 Primary Timetable After Leadership Crisis Resolution

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced its full timetable for the 2026 primary elections, setting dates for nomination, screening, and party primaries across all elective positions.

    Nomination process begins May 5

    In a statement issued on Sunday by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the sale of nomination forms will run from May 5 to May 10.

    Submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 11 to May 13, followed by screening of aspirants between May 14 and May 15.

    The party added that screening results will be published on May 17, while appeals will be handled from May 18 to May 19.

    Primaries to hold from May 21

    According to the timetable, the final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 20 ahead of the commencement of primaries.

    Elections into State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate seats will hold on May 21 at the ward level.

    Governorship primaries are fixed for May 22, while the presidential primary will take place on May 25.

    A National Executive Committee meeting is scheduled for May 26, followed by a Special National Convention on May 27 for final ratifications.

    Party sets nomination fees, discounts

    The ADC said the presidential nomination form is pegged at ₦100 million, while governorship forms cost ₦50 million.

    Senate forms are set at ₦20 million, House of Representatives at ₦10 million, and State Assembly at ₦3 million.

    The party also announced a 50 percent discount for youths and 25 percent for women and persons with disabilities.

    Move follows Supreme Court ruling

    The development comes days after the Supreme Court affirmed Senator David Mark as the party’s chairman following a prolonged leadership dispute.

    The ADC said the timetable reflects its commitment to internal democracy and compliance with electoral guidelines.

     

  • Otti Says Labour Party Opted Out of Opposition Coalition Talks in Ibadan

    Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has said the Labour Party (LP) did not participate in the opposition political summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, where talks were held on presenting a joint presidential candidate for 2027.

    LP distances itself from Ibadan coalition meeting

    Speaking in Umuahia on Wednesday, Otti clarified that the Labour Party was not part of the gathering attended by factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

    He said the party remains focused on strengthening its internal structure nationwide rather than joining any external political arrangement.

    Party insists on independent presidential ticket

    Otti stressed that the Labour Party will not collapse its structure into any coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    He added that the party is preparing to field its own presidential candidate and will continue to build its grassroots base across the country.

    “We were not part of it” — Otti

    Addressing journalists, the governor said the party had no involvement in the Ibadan summit.

    “Unfortunately, we were not part of the summit. We will hold a convention. So, we are not bound by what happened there. We did not attend,” he said.

    He added that any eligible party member interested in contesting would be given the opportunity to run under the party’s platform.

    Reconciliation within Labour Party

    Otti also spoke on ongoing reconciliation efforts within the party, noting that steps are being taken to rebuild unity among members.

    He said the party is working to reintegrate aggrieved members, including former national chairman Julius Abure, as part of broader efforts to strengthen internal cohesion.

    Focus on party structure ahead of 2027

    The governor reaffirmed confidence in the current National Working Committee, led by the Usman faction, to steer the party forward in the coming years.

    He also dismissed suggestions of any merger or alignment with other political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC).

  • “I Will Run Again” — Tinubu Declares 2027 Bid, Says Insecurity Won’t Push Him Out

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed he will seek re-election in 2027, insisting that rising insecurity across parts of the country will not force him out of office. He made the declaration while hosting Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders in Abuja.

    His remarks come amid sustained public concern over security challenges nationwide.

    Tinubu Links Security Criticism to Political Opposition

    The President suggested that ongoing criticisms of his administration’s handling of insecurity could be exploited by political opponents. He warned that narratives around violence and instability may be used to weaken his position.

    “You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies,” he said, referring to those highlighting security failures.

    President Signals Firm Resolve Ahead of 2027

    Tinubu stated that he remains determined to continue in office despite pressure and public scrutiny. He described himself as politically resilient and committed to seeking a second term.

    “I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term,” he said.

    Rising Insecurity Remains National Concern

    The declaration comes against the backdrop of continued attacks, kidnappings, and killings reported in several parts of Nigeria. The situation has prompted calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for more decisive action.

    Security remains a central issue shaping public discourse ahead of the next election cycle.

    Government Maintains Efforts to Address Threats

    The President has consistently defended his administration’s approach, stating that security agencies are receiving the necessary support to combat threats. Officials say efforts are ongoing to restore stability and improve safety across affected regions.

  • Cubana Chief Priest Declares House of Reps Bid, Targets Imo Seat Ahead of 2027

    Popular socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has announced plans to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections. He said he intends to represent the Orsu, Orlu and Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The declaration was made in a video shared online, where he outlined his motivation for entering politics.

    Chief Priest Declares Interest, Frames Ambition Around Service

    In the video, the celebrity barman said his decision to run is driven by a desire to contribute to the development of his constituency. He insisted that his ambition is not financially motivated but focused on adding value.

    “I am not coming to steal money, I want to add mine to the constituency,” he said.

    Move Follows Alignment With Tinubu Support Structure

    His political ambition comes weeks after he formally aligned with the City Boy Movement, a support group backing President Bola Tinubu. The development has intensified conversations about his growing involvement in political activities.

    Earlier in February, he was appointed Imo State Director of the movement, a role that positions him within the structure mobilising support for the president’s re-election bid.

    City Boy Movement Highlights Role in Tinubu Agenda

    The group, in a statement announcing his appointment, described Cubana Chief Priest as a figure capable of strengthening grassroots mobilisation. It said his influence and reach would help advance the Renewed Hope agenda.

    According to the statement, his role includes supporting party structures and driving engagement across the state.

    Early Signals as 2027 Political Activity Builds

    His declaration adds to the growing list of early political moves ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly among public figures expanding into politics. Observers note that such announcements reflect increasing activity within party structures as alignments begin to form.

    With his entry into the race, attention is expected to shift to how established political actors in the constituency respond in the coming months.

  • APC Rift Deepens in Ogun as Daniel, Abiodun Clash Over Ogun East Senate Ticket

    Moves to maintain unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State have come under pressure after Senator Gbenga Daniel and Governor Dapo Abiodun made parallel moves for the Ogun East senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections. The development has exposed fresh cracks within the party’s structure in the state.

    Daniel, who currently represents Ogun East, picked up his expression of interest and nomination forms on Tuesday, signalling his intention to seek re-election.

    Daniel Declares Re-Election Bid Despite Consensus Push

    Confirming his move, the former governor said he remains committed to representing the district in the Senate. He described his decision as part of ongoing efforts to deliver effective and responsive representation under the APC platform.

    “Today, I picked up my nomination and expression of interest forms as I seek to return to the Nigerian Senate,” he said.

    Abiodun Emerges as Consensus Candidate in Ijebu-Ode

    Hours earlier, Governor Dapo Abiodun had declared interest in the same seat after being adopted as the consensus candidate by APC stakeholders. The endorsement took place at a meeting held in Ijebu-Ode.

    Abiodun welcomed the decision, describing it as a vote of confidence. He assured supporters that he would offer strong representation if elected.

    Controversy Trails Stakeholders’ Meeting

    The consensus process has, however, been trailed by controversy following claims that Daniel was denied access to the meeting venue. In a video that circulated online, the senator expressed frustration over being blocked from entering the gathering.

    “We have been here since 10am, but we have been barred. We are told that we can’t enter,” he said.

    Supporters Reject Consensus, Allege Exclusion

    Supporters of Daniel under the BATOGD Movement have rejected the consensus arrangement, describing it as an attempt to sideline their candidate. The group argued that the process did not follow established party guidelines.

    Spokesperson Olumuyiwa Okunowo said the move amounted to a deliberate exclusion, raising concerns over fairness within the party’s internal process.

    Pro-Abiodun Camp Defends Decision

    Stakeholders backing Abiodun insist the endorsement reflects a collective agreement by party members across the district. They maintain that the decision was aimed at strengthening the APC’s chances in the next election cycle.

    The meeting was said to include grassroots leaders, lawmakers, councillors, and representatives of youth and women groups.

  • Obi Meets Makinde in Ibadan, Pushes United Nigeria Agenda as 2027 Consultations Intensify

    Peter Obi has met with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan, saying their discussions focused on building a more united, secure and productive Nigeria ahead of the 2027 elections. The meeting is part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures as political alignments begin to take shape.

    Obi spoke to journalists after a closed-door meeting that lasted nearly two hours at the Oyo State Secretariat.

    Obi Describes Meeting as Part of Wider Consultations

    According to Obi, the engagement is one of several ongoing discussions about Nigeria’s future. He said both leaders share a common goal of building a country that works for all citizens.

    “We have come to consult and to continue discussions… on issues that concern the future of our country,” he said. He added that the talks are focused on national development rather than narrow political interests.

    Focus on Unity, Security and Inclusive System

    Obi said the conversation also touched on unity, security and governance. He stressed the need for a system where opportunities are based on merit rather than personal connections.

    He noted that rebuilding trust and ensuring fairness are key to achieving long-term national stability.

    Economic Shift and Job Creation Highlighted

    The former presidential candidate called for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production. He said this is necessary to create jobs and drive sustainable growth.

    According to him, economic policies must directly improve livelihoods and reduce dependence on imports.

    Meeting Follows Recent Opposition Engagements

    The meeting comes days after a high-level opposition gathering in Ibadan. It also follows Obi’s recent engagement with former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    These moves point to growing coordination among political actors ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Early Signals as 2027 Political Activity Builds

    With consultations intensifying, attention is now shifting to how these discussions will shape alliances in the coming months. Political activity is expected to increase as parties prepare for the next election cycle.

  • Labour Party Elects Nenadi Usman as National Chairman, Makes History at Umuahia Convention

    The Labour Party (LP) has elected Nenadi Usman as its National Chairman at its national convention held on Tuesday in Umuahia, Abia State. Her emergence marks a major leadership shift within the party as it prepares for the next electoral cycle.

    Usman becomes the first woman to be elected National Chairman of a political party in Nigeria, a development party members described as a defining moment for internal party democracy.

    From Caretaker Leader to Substantive Chairman

    Usman had been leading the party as Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee since September 4, 2024. She was appointed at a NEC meeting in Umuahia following the expiration of the tenure of the former National Working Committee.

    During that period, she oversaw the party through internal leadership disputes that were eventually resolved in her favour through court rulings. Her leadership was later recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after a Federal High Court judgement delivered on January 21, 2026.

    That decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal on April 21, 2026, further strengthening her position within the party ahead of the convention.

    Legal Backing Strengthens Leadership Position

    The court rulings played a key role in stabilising the party’s leadership structure after months of uncertainty. With both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal affirming her leadership, Usman entered the convention with significant institutional backing.

    Her emergence as substantive chairman is seen as the formal consolidation of that leadership, transitioning from a caretaker arrangement to a fully recognised party structure.

    Usman Promises Unity, Party Repositioning

    In her acceptance speech, Usman thanked party members for their support and pledged to reposition the Labour Party for future electoral success. She emphasised the need for unity, peace, and reconciliation within the party.

    She also commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti for his role and assured members that her leadership would focus on strengthening internal cohesion ahead of the next general elections.

    Otti Urges Strong Leadership as New NWC Emerges

    Speaking at the convention, Governor Otti called on the newly elected National Working Committee to provide purposeful leadership and deepen the party’s structures nationwide. He stressed the importance of building a strong and united platform capable of competing effectively in future elections.

    The convention also produced other key members of the National Working Committee, including Iheanacho Obioma as National Secretary, Nike Oriola as Deputy National Chairman, and Ken Eluma Asogwa as National Publicity Secretary.

    Others include Oluchi Oparah as National Organising Secretary, Anslem Eragbe as National Financial Secretary, and Hilda Dokubo as National Women Leader. The newly elected officials were sworn in at the convention.

    Labour Party Enters New Phase Ahead of 2027

    Usman’s emergence signals a new phase for the Labour Party as it moves to stabilise its internal structure and prepare for the 2027 elections. With leadership disputes largely resolved, attention is expected to shift to party expansion, voter mobilisation, and national positioning.

    The coming months will test the party’s ability to maintain unity and translate its internal reorganisation into broader political relevance.

  •  Tinubu Moves for 2027 Re-Election as APC Picks ₦100m Nomination Forms in Abuja

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has moved closer to seeking a second term after the All Progressives Congress (APC) purchased his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the 2027 presidential election. The forms were obtained on Tuesday in Abuja, marking an early political signal from the ruling party ahead of the next general elections.

    Faleke Handles ₦100m Form Purchase in Abuja Ceremony

    The nomination forms, valued at ₦100 million, were picked up on Tinubu’s behalf by James Faleke, lawmaker representing Ikeja Federal Constituency. The documents were officially presented by APC National Organising Secretary, Suleiman Argungu, who declared the process open.

    Faleke, who also leads the Tinubu Support Groups, completed the transaction as party stakeholders witnessed the exercise in Abuja.

    APC Opens Early Race Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The move is seen as the formal start of internal mobilisation within the APC ahead of the 2027 presidential race. Party officials say the process will trigger wider consultations and alignments across political structures in the coming months.

    The development places Tinubu at the centre of early preparations within the ruling party as political activities gradually gather pace nationwide.

    INEC Releases Full Timetable for 2027 Polls

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has already announced the schedule for the 2027 general elections. Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections are fixed for February 6, 2027.

    INEC also confirmed that party primaries and dispute resolutions will run from April 23 to May 30, 2026, setting the stage for candidate selection across parties.

    Campaign Dates Set as Political Activities Build Up

    According to INEC, presidential and National Assembly campaigns will begin on August 19, 2026. Campaigns for governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled to start on September 9, 2026.

    The timelines are expected to guide early planning, even as political parties quietly intensify behind-the-scenes preparations ahead of the official campaign window.

    Early Signals as 2027 Race Begins to Take Shape

    With the purchase of nomination forms, the APC has effectively stepped into early campaign mode, months before official political activities are allowed to fully begin. The development is expected to trigger reactions from opposition camps as the election cycle gradually builds momentum.

    Attention now shifts to how other parties will respond as Nigeria edges closer to another high-stakes election season.