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  • APC Shifts Presidential Primary to May 23 as Party Revises 2027 Election Timetable

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rescheduled its presidential primary election to May 23, 2026, from the earlier dates of May 15 and 16, as part of adjustments to its timetable for the 2027 general elections.

    Fresh timetable announced

    The update was announced by APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, after the party’s 186th National Working Committee meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

    He said the revision affects key stages, including screening, appeals, and primary elections across all levels.

    “We now have a new revised timetable in accordance with the Constitution… the Electoral Act 2026, and INEC’s schedule,” Meseko said.

    Screening, forms timeline adjusted

    According to the new schedule, sale of nomination forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026, while submission of completed forms will close on May 4.

    Screening of aspirants for various positions will hold between May 6 and May 9, with presidential screening fixed for May 9.

    Publication of screening results is scheduled for May 11, while appeals will be heard between May 12 and May 13.

    Primary elections schedule

    The party outlined dates for its primaries across positions, beginning with House of Representatives on May 15, followed by Senate on May 18, and State House of Assembly on May 20.

    Governorship primaries will hold on May 21, while the presidential primary has now been moved to May 23.

    Post-primary appeals will follow between May 18 and May 25, depending on the position.

    Mode of primaries clarified

    Meseko said the APC will adopt both direct and consensus methods for its primaries, in line with the Electoral Act.

    “Aspirants are free to decide their preference… where consensus fails, it automatically reverts to direct primaries,” he explained.

    He also dismissed claims that nomination forms would be restricted, insisting they are open to all interested aspirants.

    Zamfara congress timetable released

    The party also released a separate timetable for ward, local government, and state congresses in Zamfara State, scheduled to begin on April 28.

    The process will include screening, elections, and appeals across different levels of party structure.

    INEC timeline in focus

    The adjustments come as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls set for February 6.

    INEC also stated that party primaries must be conducted between April 23 and May 30, 2026.

    The revised APC timetable is now a key development in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

     

  • INEC Chair Amupitan Speaks on ‘Divine Conviction’ After Appointment Amid Neutrality Concerns

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has said he only accepted the role after receiving what he described as a “clear divine conviction,” even as questions over his neutrality continue to trail his leadership.

    ‘I would have declined’

    Amupitan spoke in Abuja during an end-of-tenure service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its outgoing president, Israel Akanji, and his wife, Victoria.

    According to him, the decision to lead Nigeria’s electoral body was not taken lightly.

    “If I did not have the conviction for this job, I would not accept it,” he said.

    He added that he drew strength from what he described as a direct assurance from God before taking up the position.

    “The Lord said, ‘Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you.’ I heard this clearly before I accepted this job,” Amupitan stated.

    Faith amid pressure

    The INEC chairman said that conviction has remained central to his leadership, especially given the complexity of managing elections in Nigeria.

    “No matter the storm, no matter the difficulty, God is able to calm every storm. That is what God has been doing,” he said.

    He also urged Nigerians to pray for the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the polls could set a new standard.

    “Continue to pray for Nigeria… that the 2027 election will be the best ever,” he said, adding that success would require divine support.

    Controversy over neutrality

    Amupitan’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny over his perceived political neutrality.

    He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in October 2025 to succeed former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu.

    Since then, resurfaced social media posts allegedly linked to him have sparked allegations of sympathy for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 elections.

    The claims have triggered calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for his resignation.

    Denial and pushback

    Amupitan has denied operating the account linked to the posts and insisted he remains politically neutral.

    INEC has also dismissed the allegations, describing them as attempts to discredit its leadership.

    Despite the denials, the controversy has continued to shape public discourse around electoral credibility, voter confidence, and the integrity of the commission ahead of 2027.

    The development remains a key talking point in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as attention shifts to preparations for the next general election.

     

  • LP Chair Nenadi Usman Says It’s “Too Late” for Peter Obi to Return for 2027 Ticket

    Labour Party Chairman Nenadi Usman has said it would be too late for the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under its platform ahead of the 2027 general election.

    “It will be too late” — Usman explains

    Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, Usman said party procedures and electoral guidelines would prevent any late return.

    “Well, it will be too late, actually for him to come back… once we close the register 21 days before primaries and submit the e-register to INEC, you can’t come from behind the door,” she said.

    She stressed that the timeline makes it impossible for new entrants to be registered and cleared to contest once the process is closed.

    Acknowledges Obi’s impact on party

    Despite her position, Usman admitted that Obi played a major role in building the Labour Party’s current profile.

    “Even me, he convinced me to come with him… many people that are in Labour Party today were convinced by Peter because we believed in equity and fairness,” she said.

    She added that no current party member commands the same level of political momentum Obi brought during the 2023 election.

    Explains defection from PDP

    Usman also spoke on her decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party, linking it to disagreements over zoning.

    “We believed that PDP should have zoned the seat to the south… though I’m a Northerner, I felt it was not fair,” she said.

    Her stance, she noted, led to her move to the Labour Party alongside others who shared similar concerns.

    Focus on party ideology and leadership

    Looking ahead, the LP chairman said the party would return to its core principles of social justice and equal opportunity.

    She pointed to Abia State Governor Alex Otti as a leading example of the party’s ideals in practice.

    “He is what I would say is the ambassador of the Labour Party… and he’s doing very well,” she said.

    Call for political participation

    Usman also urged Nigerians, particularly activists and unionists, to participate more actively in politics.

    “If you think you’re an activist… come contest elections, because you cannot change from outside,” she said.

    The comments have added to ongoing discussions around party alignments and preparations for the next election cycle in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Adebayo Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister to Pursue Oyo Governorship Bid

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has resigned from the Federal Executive Council to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State, with his exit set to take effect on April 30, 2026.

    Resignation letter to Tinubu

    In a letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu said his decision was taken with “a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude.”

    “I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as the Honourable Minister of Power… This resignation is to take effect on 30th April 2026,” he stated.

    The letter was routed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to allow for a smooth transition.

    Focus shifts to Oyo ambition

    Adelabu said his resignation would enable him concentrate fully on his governorship ambition in Oyo State.

    “My decision to step down is informed by my intention to focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State,” he wrote.

    He added that the move aligns with provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which bars political appointees from contesting elections while in office.

    Gratitude and reflections on service

    The former minister thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his appointment as a privilege.

    “It has been a rare honour to contribute to national development under your leadership and to play a role in advancing reforms in the power sector,” he said.

    Adelabu also referenced his earlier resignation from the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2018 to pursue the same political ambition.

    Political implications ahead of election cycle

    His resignation signals a major shift in Oyo State politics as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather pace.

    Adelabu is expected to join the race for the governorship seat, setting the stage for intensified political activities in the state.

    The development is already drawing attention across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as stakeholders begin to position for the contest.

     

  • Adelabu Speaks on 2027 Gubernatorial Ambition, Confirms Exit Plan from Power Ministry

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has confirmed his intention to step down from office in the coming days as he prepares to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, after formally informing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his political ambition.

    What happened

    According to a statement issued by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu disclosed that he had already communicated his decision to the President during a recent meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he also presented a detailed report on his stewardship in the power sector over the past two and a half years.

    The statement noted that the Minister is expected to resign officially in the coming days, a move described as part of efforts to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in ongoing reforms within the electricity sector before his exit from office.

    Meeting with Tinubu and sector update

    During the engagement with President Tinubu, Adelabu reportedly highlighted key developments recorded under his leadership, including attempts to stabilise electricity generation, improve transmission capacity, and strengthen reforms across the power value chain.

    He also presented major policy frameworks such as the National Integrated Electricity Policy (NIEP), its Strategic Implementation Plan, and a Medium to Long-Term Resource Plan designed to guide sustainability and long-term sector growth.

    The statement explained that these frameworks are aimed at improving electricity access, expanding renewable energy integration, attracting investment, and building a more resilient national power system with clearer institutional responsibilities.

    Resignation linked to 2027 ambition

    The statement further confirmed that Adelabu’s planned resignation is directly tied to his governorship ambition in Oyo State, adding that he has received the President’s consent and blessing to pursue the political move.

    It also stressed that part of the reason for the delayed exit is to allow him conclude critical interventions in the power sector, particularly ongoing efforts to address challenges such as gas supply constraints, infrastructure repairs, and outstanding obligations to gas suppliers affecting generation output.

    What it means

    Adelabu’s decision now officially positions him among serving ministers preparing for the 2027 political cycle, as political activities gradually intensify across the country. His exit is expected to trigger a replacement process within the Federal Executive Council in the coming weeks.

  • Adeleke Appoints Davido Youth Mobilisation Head Ahead of Osun 2026 Election

    Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, as head of youth mobilisation for his campaign council ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election.

    Davido confirmed the development on Tuesday via X, expressing excitement over his role in his uncle’s re-election bid.

    “I have been appointed by the Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke and flag bearer of the Accord Party as head youth mobilization of campaign council! We look forward to a smooth campaign and your re-election your excellency! 4+4,” he wrote.

    Role in campaign structure

    The singer is expected to drive youth engagement and mobilisation as political activities gather momentum across the state.

    Davido has been a consistent supporter of Adeleke and was actively involved in previous campaigns.

    Race for Osun Government House

    The appointment comes as Adeleke seeks a second term in the August 2026 governorship election.

    He is expected to face candidates including Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Salaam Folasayo of the African Democratic Congress, among others.

  • APC Unveils Full Timetable for 2027 Elections, Fixes Dates for Primaries, Forms

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has released its detailed timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, outlining dates for sale of forms, screening, primaries, and appeals.

    The schedule, signed by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, shows that the process will begin on April 20, 2026, with the notice of election to state chapters.

    Key dates announced

    According to the timetable, the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is fixed for May 4, while screening of aspirants for all positions will take place between May 6 and May 8.

    The publication of screening results is scheduled for May 11, with appeals set for May 12 and 13.

    Primary elections schedule

    The party fixed its presidential primary for May 15 and 16.

    House of Representatives primaries will hold on May 18, followed by the Senate on May 20.

    State House of Assembly primaries are slated for May 21, while governorship primaries will take place on May 23.

    Appeals timetable

    Appeals for the presidential primary will be held on May 18.

    House of Representatives appeals are scheduled for May 20, Senate on May 21, State Assembly on May 23, and governorship on May 25.

    Cost of forms

    The APC also released the cost of nomination and expression of interest forms.

    Presidential aspirants will pay ₦100 million, made up of ₦30 million for expression of interest and ₦70 million for nomination.

    Governorship forms cost ₦50 million, Senate ₦20 million, House of Representatives ₦10 million, and State Assembly ₦6 million.

    The party added that female, youth, and physically challenged aspirants will pay for expression of interest forms and 50 percent of nomination fees.

    What it means

    The release of the timetable signals the formal start of APC’s internal process ahead of the 2027 elections, with political activities expected to intensify in the coming weeks.

     

  • “Stay There, Fight Them, Scatter ADC” — Gbajabiamila Tells Abejide Amid Party Crisis

    Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has urged ADC lawmaker Leke Abejide to remain in the African Democratic Congress and intensify internal battles within the party amid its ongoing leadership crisis.

    He made the remarks at a birthday event in Abuja, where a video of his comments later surfaced online.

    What happened

    In the viral clip, Gbajabiamila openly encouraged Abejide to stay in the ADC and resist rival factions.

    “I know you to be a committed party man… Stay in that same ADC. Fight them. Scatter them. Hold on to your party,” he said.

    He added that Abejide should ignore opposing voices and continue his political efforts within the party.

    “We like what you are doing. Continue… Nobody can come and take your party away from you,” Gbajabiamila stated.

    ADC crisis deepens

    The ADC has been engulfed in a leadership tussle, with multiple factions battling for control, including a group linked to former Senate President David Mark.

    Abejide is aligned with the Nafiu Bala faction, which is contesting the legitimacy of the rival leadership bloc.

    Abejide’s stance

    The Kogi lawmaker has maintained support for President Tinubu despite remaining in the ADC.

    Speaking on Channels Television, he said his political loyalty cuts across both APC and ADC.

    “My heart is in the APC, and in the ADC… Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and it’s not about party,” he said when asked about his 2027 presidential choice.

    Protest at INEC

    Last week, Abejide and other supporters staged a protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, rejecting the Mark-led faction.

    They accused the group of attempting to hijack the party’s leadership in violation of its constitution.

    “We are here to urge INEC to do the right thing… These people are hijackers,” Abejide said.

    What this means

    The development highlights growing tensions within the ADC as political alignments begin to shift ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The party’s internal crisis is expected to shape its strength as a potential opposition platform.

     

  • Shekarau Dumps PDP After Consultations, Moves Toward APC

    Former Kano State Governor, Ibrahim Shekarau, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ending his latest stint with the opposition party.

    Resignation confirmed

    Shekarau announced his exit on Sunday at his residence along Mundubawa Avenue in Kano, following days of consultations with his political allies, including members of his Shura group.

    In a resignation letter dated April 19 and addressed to the PDP Chairman of Giginyu Ward in Nassarawa Local Government Area, he stated that his decision takes immediate effect.

    “Accept this letter please as notice of my resignation from my position as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with effect from today,” he wrote.

    Reason for exit

    The former governor said his decision came after extensive deliberations with his political group on the need to pursue their ambitions on a different platform.

    “This decision follows wide and extensive deliberations within my political group to pursue our political career in a different political party,” Shekarau added.

    Fresh political direction

    Copies of the letter were also sent to the Kano State PDP Chairman and the PDP Chairman in Nassarawa Local Government Area, signalling formal communication across party structures.

    Although he did not officially name his next destination, APC posters were reportedly seen around his residence, suggesting a likely move to the ruling party.

    Background moves

    Shekarau, who governed Kano State between 2003 and 2011 under the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), had previously defected to the PDP in 2014 after the ANPP merged with other parties to form the APC.

    His latest move comes days after reports that the APC leadership reached out to him as part of ongoing political realignments.

  • “Don’t Kill to Rule” — Pastor Paul Enenche Sends Warning to Leaders Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, has issued a strong warning to political leaders, urging them to seek power only through the will of the people as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections.

    His message

    Speaking during a sermon, Enenche stressed that leadership must be rooted in public acceptance, not force, manipulation, or financial inducement.

    He criticised politicians who push themselves into power despite being rejected by the people, describing such actions as shameful.

    “People say they don’t want you, yet you spend money to impose yourself on them. Is that not a shame? Somebody should lead because you are wanted,” he said.

    Warning against election malpractice

    The cleric cautioned against electoral malpractice, including vote-buying and rigging, insisting that leaders must not resort to violence to gain power.

    “They don’t want you. Clear out. Don’t contest at all. Don’t rig to lead. Don’t kill to come into power. Let them need you,” he added.

    Call to speak out

    Enenche also urged Nigerians and religious leaders not to remain silent in the face of injustice, warning that silence could be interpreted as support for wrongdoing.

    He encouraged citizens to speak boldly against poor leadership and hold those in power accountable.

    Growing political conversations

    His remarks come amid increasing conversations around leadership accountability and electoral integrity as political activities begin to build ahead of the 2027 general elections.