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  • Obi Meets Jonathan With South East Leaders as 2027 Consultations Intensify

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday visited former President Goodluck Jonathan at his residence in Abuja, alongside a delegation of South East leaders.

    The meeting comes amid growing political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    South East Leaders Present at Meeting

    Those present at the meeting included former Enugu State governor Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Imo State governor Achike Udenwa, ex-NDDC Managing Director Onyema Ugochukwu, and Senator Victor Umeh, among others.

    The visit is widely seen as part of Obi’s ongoing engagement with key political figures.

    Obi Speaks on Purpose of Visit

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, Obi said the visit was purely consultative and focused on Nigeria’s future and the 2027 elections.

    “We, some notable South East leaders, have come in consultation to our respected former President Goodluck Jonathan… it is all about Nigeria,” he said.

    Jonathan Calls for Credible Elections

    Obi revealed that Jonathan emphasised the need for free, fair, and credible elections, while rejecting the idea of a one-party system.

    “He wished that we have free, fair, credible election… There can’t be a one-party system. He cannot support such thing,” Obi said.

    He described Jonathan as a committed democrat who served the country faithfully.

    No Endorsement Yet

    On speculation about endorsement, Obi clarified that no such discussion has taken place.

    “We’re not talking about endorsement yet. When I become a candidate, I’ll come back for endorsement,” he stated.

    2027 Political Moves Gather Pace

    The meeting comes as Obi has already indicated interest in contesting the 2027 presidential election, reportedly under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with consultations ongoing across political blocs.

  • APC Releases 2027 Election Timetable, Fixes Presidential Primary for May 23

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, outlining key dates for primaries and internal processes.

    The schedule was issued on Monday and signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu.

    Dates Fixed for Primaries Across Positions

    According to the timetable, the APC presidential primary will hold on Saturday, May 23, 2026.

    Other primaries are scheduled as follows: House of Representatives on May 15, Senate on May 18, State Houses of Assembly on May 20, and governorship on May 21.

    Guidelines on Screening, Appeals, Payments

    The revised schedule also includes timelines for screening, appeals, and directives on the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.

    The party listed designated bank accounts for all payments related to the purchase of forms.

    Fees Retained for Aspirants

    The APC maintained its nomination fees, with the presidential form pegged at ₦100 million and governorship at ₦50 million.

    Senate aspirants are to pay ₦20 million, House of Representatives ₦10 million, and State House of Assembly ₦6 million.

    Discount for Women, Youths, Others

    Female aspirants, youths, and persons living with disabilities are required to pay only for the expression of interest form and 50 percent of the nomination fee for each position.

    Political Alignments Ahead of 2027

    The release of the timetable comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition figures already indicating plans to field a joint candidate against the ruling party.

  • APC Faces Fresh Tension as Aspirant Moves to Challenge Tinubu’s 2027 Ticket

    Fresh signs of internal tension have surfaced in the All Progressives Congress (APC) after an Edo-born politician, Osifo Stanley, declared his intention to contest the party’s 2027 presidential ticket against President Bola Tinubu.

    The move comes despite widespread endorsements positioning Tinubu as the party’s consensus candidate.

    Aspirant Rejects ‘Consensus’ Narrative

    Speaking in Abuja, Stanley said he had already taken steps to formalise his ambition, including requesting the party’s account details to pay nomination fees.

    He insisted that endorsements do not replace the constitutional process of primaries.

    “I believe strongly that we all have the right to enjoy our constitutionally-guaranteed rights to run,” he said.

    ‘Endorsement Is Not a Ticket’

    The aspirant argued that no provision in the APC constitution or Nigerian law allows endorsements to automatically produce a candidate.

    “There is no such law in our party’s Constitution… endorsement is not a pathway to becoming the candidate,” he said.

    He added that both party rules and electoral laws recognise the right of members to contest.

    Tinubu Backed by Party Structure

    Stanley’s declaration comes weeks after the APC’s national convention in March, where governors, lawmakers and other stakeholders adopted Tinubu as sole candidate.

    Several state chapters, including Lagos, Borno, Kebbi and Ekiti, had also endorsed the president, creating what appeared to be a unified front.

    Focus on Economy, Security

    Outlining his vision, the aspirant said his campaign would prioritise economic recovery and national security.

    “Our plan is to see how Nigeria can get out of lingering economic tension… the economy and security are the foundation,” he said.

    The development signals early cracks within the ruling party as preparations for the 2027 election intensify across Nigeria’s political landscape.

     

  • Shehu Sani Says Peter Obi Support Is ‘Drama’, Backs Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

    Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has dismissed the growing support for former presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing it as “drama” driven by tribal sentiments.

    He also insisted that President Bola Tinubu is on course to secure re-election in the 2027 general elections.

    Comments on ‘The Honest Bunch Podcast’

    Sani made the remarks during an appearance on The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he featured alongside activist Deji Adeyanju in a discussion on Nigeria’s political climate and leadership.

    He argued that many of Obi’s supporters are driven by ethnic loyalty rather than national interest.

    “The support for Peter Obi is drama, many of those supporting him and those who come from his ethnic background,” Sani said.

    He added that even if Obi becomes president, “nothing changes.”

    ‘Same Ideological Class’ Claim

    The former lawmaker also downplayed ideological differences among major political figures, placing Obi, Atiku Abubakar, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and President Tinubu in the same political category.

    “Obi, Obasanjo, Atiku, and Tinubu are people who come from the same ideological perspective,” he said.

    Sani further insisted that Tinubu remains the frontrunner ahead of 2027, adding that Nigerians are faced with limited political choices.

    “The choice we have is between Satan and the devil,” he stated.

    Comments on Insecurity and Past Senate Experience

    Reflecting on insecurity in the country, Sani recalled his time in the Senate, alleging that his interventions on killings and kidnappings were often met with resistance from fellow northern lawmakers.

    “When I was in the Senate, each time I stood up to speak about the killings and kidnappings of my people, the first attack I got was from Northern senators,” he said.

  • Kano Governor Yusuf Denies Link to Underwear Display at Remi Tinubu Rally

    Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has denied any involvement in the controversial display of red underwear during a rally held in honour of First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu.

    The incident, which surfaced in viral videos over the weekend, sparked widespread reactions online.

    Yusuf Distances Self from Event

    Speaking during a special prayer session at the Government House in Kano, the governor said he neither approved nor had prior knowledge of the activity.

    “We were going about our normal activities when I was informed that some young women displayed inappropriate items. I was not aware of it,” he said.

    Condemns Display as ‘Inappropriate’

    Yusuf described the act as unacceptable, stressing that it contradicts the cultural and religious values of the state.

    “Such actions are against our culture and the teachings of Islam, and we strongly condemn them,” he added.

    Controversy Trails Viral Videos

    The display had earlier been linked to an alleged empowerment initiative, with reports suggesting it was backed by the state government.

    However, the governor’s reaction has now distanced the administration from the development.

     

  • Sanwo-Olu Endorses Hamzat for 2027 Lagos Governorship Race

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has endorsed his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, for the 2027 governorship election, citing his experience and capacity to lead the state.

    The endorsement was announced on Monday at Lagos House, Marina.

    Endorsement at High-Level Gathering

    The event was attended by all 57 local government and local council development area chairmen in the state, signalling strong grassroots backing.

    Sanwo-Olu said Hamzat possesses the knowledge and leadership qualities required to govern Lagos.

    Growing Support for Hamzat

    Hamzat’s ambition has gained momentum in recent weeks, with several political and community leaders throwing their weight behind him during consultations across the state.

    Among those who have publicly endorsed him are the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and other key stakeholders.

    Top Political Figures Join Support Base

    Also backing the deputy governor are Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Senator Tokunbo Abiru; and former Finance Minister Wale Edun.

    Their endorsements add to the growing coalition rallying around Hamzat ahead of the 2027 polls.

    Race for Lagos 2027 Takes Shape

    The development signals early political alignments as parties and aspirants begin positioning for the next election cycle in the state.

     

  • APC Slams Makinde Over ‘Operation Wetie’ Remark at Opposition Summit

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde over comments made at an opposition summit, describing them as inciting and dangerous.

    Makinde had referenced the “Operation Wetie” violence of the 1960s while warning against the emergence of a one-party state in Nigeria.

    Controversial Historical Reference

    Speaking at the National Summit of Opposition Political Party Leaders, Makinde said, “They should remember that ‘Operation Wetie’ started from here. This is the same Wild Wild West.”

    The phrase “Operation Wetie,” derived from a Yoruba expression meaning “soak him,” refers to a violent political era marked by arson and attacks following the disputed 1965 Western Region elections.

    APC Raises Alarm Over ‘Incitement’

    In a statement issued on Sunday, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka described the comment as troubling.

    “It is deeply concerning that a sitting governor would invoke such a violent historical reference,” the party said, warning it could trigger “anarchy, murderous rage and widespread lawlessness.”

    The APC added that Makinde’s remarks cast doubt on his suitability as a state’s chief security officer.

    Calls for Security Action

    The ruling party urged security and intelligence agencies to take note of the statement, stressing that public office holders must be held accountable.

    “Constitutional immunity from prosecution is not immunity from accountability for threats or acts against national security,” the statement added.

    Opposition Blamed for Internal Crisis

    The APC also dismissed concerns about a one-party state, attributing challenges within opposition ranks to internal divisions.

    It criticised figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, accusing them of weakening their parties rather than building viable alternatives.

    2027 Political Tensions Build

    Reaffirming confidence ahead of the 2027 elections, the APC said Nigeria’s democratic space remains open.

    The party pledged continued mobilisation in support of President Bola Tinubu’s agenda as political alignments intensify.

     

  • NDC Moves for Obi, Kwankwaso Ticket as 2027 Race Gathers Pace

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has stepped up moves ahead of the 2027 elections, openly courting Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso with an offer to run on its platform.

    The party hinted at a two-week window for both politicians to decide on joining and securing its presidential ticket.

    Deadline Sparks Attention

    In a post on X, the NDC wrote: “All we need right now. Just all we need. 2 weeks to deadline,” alongside a photo of Obi and Kwankwaso shaking hands with the caption, “Nigeria will be OK.”

    The move signals growing urgency among emerging political blocs seeking to reposition before the next general election cycle.

    ‘OK Movement’ Gains Ground

    The development follows the launch of the “OK Movement” by supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso, aimed at mobilising backing for a possible joint ticket.

    Justin Ijeh, the group’s national publicity secretary, has since announced appointments into its national executive council, as well as zonal and state structures.

    Wider Opposition Realignments

    The push comes amid broader political realignments across opposition parties ahead of 2027.

    At the same time, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing an internal leadership crisis, with uncertainty over its readiness for the elections.

    On April 22, the Supreme Court reserved judgment in an appeal filed by a faction led by David Mark, challenging a suit involving party leadership.

    Race for 2027 Intensifies

    The NDC’s latest move adds to growing manoeuvres among political actors positioning for the 2027 presidential race, as alliances and negotiations continue to shape the opposition landscape.

  • PDP, ADC Seal 2027 Alliance Plan, Push for One Presidential Flagbearer

    Leaders of opposition parties have agreed to present a single presidential candidate for the 2027 election, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) push for a united front against the ruling party.

    One candidate strategy takes shape

    The decision was announced at an opposition summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, where party leaders resolved to align their efforts ahead of the next general election.

    PDP factional Chairman, Tanimu Turaki SAN, disclosed this while reading the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting.

    According to him, the parties are working towards presenting a consensus candidate that will be jointly supported across opposition platforms.

    Top contenders already in the race

    The development comes as key political figures have already shown interest in the ADC presidential ticket.

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi are among those who have declared their intentions.

    Opposition raises concerns over 2027 polls

    Beyond the candidate plan, the PDP and ADC also demanded the resignation of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan.

    They accused him of bias and alleged partisanship in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Warning over electoral credibility

    Reading the communiqué, Turaki said the opposition would resist any attempt to impose a sole candidate from the ruling party in 2027.

    He added that confidence in the electoral umpire had been eroded, warning that the chairman’s continued stay in office could threaten the credibility of the elections.

    “That we shall work towards fielding one Presidential Candidate for the 2027 elections… to rescue our nation and her long suffering masses,” he stated.

    The parties insisted that only a transparent and credible electoral process would ensure stability and public trust in the outcome of the 2027 polls.

     

  • Court Strikes Out Contempt Suit Against INEC Chairman Over Service Failure

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a contempt suit filed against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the applicant failed to personally serve the required court documents.

    Why the court struck out the case

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik dismissed the suit on the basis that the defendant was not personally served, as mandated by law in contempt proceedings.

    She held that since contempt is quasi-criminal in nature, Form 48 must be served directly on the alleged contemnor.

    The judge added that failure to comply leaves the court with no option but to strike out the case.

    Background to the legal dispute

    The case stemmed from an earlier judgment delivered on March 5, 2025, where the court ordered INEC to recognise the Edozie Njoku-led faction as the leadership of the National Rescue Movement (NRM).

    Following INEC’s refusal to comply, the faction initiated contempt proceedings against the then INEC chairman by filing Forms 48 and 49.

    However, INEC challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the contempt did not occur in the face of the court.

    Case reassigned before final ruling

    The initial trial judge later recused himself and returned the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, who reassigned it to Justice Abdulmalik.

    At the resumed hearing, the court insisted on proper personal service and adjourned for compliance.

    But when the applicant failed to meet the requirement, the case was struck out.

    Reactions from NRM faction

    Reacting, factional NRM chairman Chinedu Obi welcomed the ruling, questioning the legitimacy of the Njoku-led leadership.

    He maintained that the party’s recognised structure remains the one reflected on INEC’s official platform.

    Obi added that the development clears the path for the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections.