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  • Court Sets Aside Judgment That Registered Peter Obi’s NDC, Orders INEC to Withdraw Recognition

    A Federal High Court in Lokoja has set aside its earlier judgment that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party, ordering that all actions taken under the previous ruling be reversed.

    The decision followed an application by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that the NDC was registered using a logo it had previously submitted to INEC.

    Court reverses earlier decision

    Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Isah Dashen held that the court’s December 10, 2025 ruling affected the rights of the PMP, even though the party was not joined in the original suit.

    The judge consequently vacated the earlier judgment and ordered all parties to return to the position they occupied before the December 10, 2025 decision. He also directed the claimants to include all necessary parties in the case before a fresh determination is made.

    INEC ordered to withdraw recognition

    Speaking after the ruling, counsel to the PMP, C.S. Ekeocha, said the judgment means every action taken by INEC based on the previous court order must be withdrawn.

    According to him, this includes the recognition of the NDC as a political party, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in INEC’s official records and any appearance on ballot papers, pending the final determination of the substantive suit.

    Case not yet concluded

    Ekeocha clarified that the court did not determine the substantive dispute but only set aside its earlier judgment to ensure all parties affected by the case are given an opportunity to be heard.

    He also dismissed claims that the court merely ordered parties to maintain the status quo, insisting that the ruling specifically restored the position that existed before the December 10, 2025 judgment.

    The case is expected to return to court after the necessary parties have been joined for a fresh hearing.

     

  • Kwankwasiyya Faction Denies Report of Kwankwaso’s Planned Exit From NDC Over Kano Candidate List

    The Kwankwasiyya faction has dismissed reports claiming that former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is planning to leave the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over alleged disputes surrounding candidate lists in Kano State.

    The clarification comes amid reports suggesting tensions within the party following the replacement of some candidates reportedly backed by the Kwankwasiyya political movement.

    Dispute Over Candidate List

    According to earlier reports, the changes in the Kano State candidate list were made as part of efforts to implement a power-sharing arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya bloc and the existing party structure.

    Party documents reportedly indicated a 60-40 arrangement between the Kwankwasiyya movement and the original NDC structure to balance influence within the state chapter.

    The adjustment allegedly triggered speculation about internal disagreements over control of party positions.

    Faction Dismisses Exit Rumours

    Reacting to the reports, Kwankwasiyya spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, described the claims as unfounded and based on social media speculation.

    “Well, this is still a rumour. It is just being circulated on social media,” he said.

    He maintained that the faction conducted its primaries in line with legal provisions and the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Primaries Conducted Without Crisis

    Mohammed explained that the primaries were held on May 29 following a consensus-building process that produced candidates for various positions.

    He said there were no objections from party members during the exercise and that the process was concluded smoothly.

    “Before that date, there were processes that led to consensus and candidates emerged for different positions. There were no complaints from party members or aspirants,” he stated.

    Kwankwaso Not Planning Exit

    The faction also insisted that there has been no internal discussion suggesting that Kwankwaso intends to leave the NDC.

    Mohammed added that the matter remains based on speculation circulating online, stressing that the leadership remains focused on party activities and ongoing political processes.

  • Aisha Yesufu Confronts NDC Leaders Over FCT Senate Ticket Dispute

    Prominent activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has publicly challenged leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over what she described as irregularities in the party’s process for selecting its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    A video circulating on social media shows Yesufu confronting party officials at the NDC secretariat in Abuja, demanding explanations over decisions that allegedly altered the original primary election arrangements.

    Dispute Over FCT Senate Primary

    Yesufu, who joined the NDC in May 2026 after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had declared her intention to contest for the FCT Senate seat.

    However, she later withdrew from the race, alleging that the primary election process was manipulated through repeated postponements, venue changes and a shift from a planned direct primary to a delegate-based system.

    According to her, the changes created an uneven playing field and ultimately favoured another aspirant.

    In the video, Yesufu is seen addressing party leaders and questioning the handling of communications surrounding the nomination process.

    Raises Concerns About Internal Democracy

    Speaking during the confrontation, Yesufu expressed disappointment over what she described as a lack of transparency within the party.

    She said her name had been subjected to public criticism during the process but noted that she initially chose not to speak publicly in order to preserve party unity.

    Despite her grievances, the activist maintained that her concerns were about strengthening democratic practices within the opposition movement rather than pursuing personal interests.

    Withdraws From Race

    Following the controversy, Yesufu confirmed her withdrawal from the senatorial contest, arguing that the process violated principles of fairness and undermined confidence in internal party democracy.

    She stated that while she disagreed with the outcome, she would not immediately seek legal redress.

    Instead, she said her focus remains on supporting opposition efforts ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Incident

    The confrontation has generated varied reactions among political observers and supporters.

    While some praised Yesufu for demanding accountability from party leaders, others argued that internal negotiations and political compromises are common features of party politics.

    The NDC has yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations raised by Yesufu.

     

  • 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.

  • Aisha Yesufu Withdraws From NDC FCT Senate Race After Party Halts Primaries

    Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has stepped down from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial race for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after the party reportedly decided not to hold primaries for the seat.

    The development, confirmed on Friday, effectively ends her short-lived ambition to contest for the FCT senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Party Decision Alters Political Calculations

    According to Yesufu, the NDC leadership resolved not to conduct internal elections for the senatorial seat in the FCT, a decision that automatically reshaped the contest within the party.

    She noted that while senatorial primaries were suspended, the party would still proceed with House of Representatives primaries in the FCT.

    “Our party has decided not to conduct primaries for the Senatorial seat in FCT Abuja. It however intends to conduct primaries for House of Representatives! Go ahead and make your choice known!” she said.

    Supporters Urged to Remain Focused

    Despite stepping back from the race, Yesufu urged her supporters not to lose focus, stressing that the broader political goal ahead of 2027 remains unchanged.

    She encouraged members of her support base to continue mobilising around wider electoral participation, particularly at the presidential level.

    “I urge each and everyone of you to remain calm and focus on the bigger picture which is the presidential election. Nigeria will be OK!” she added.

    Campaign Movement and Grassroots Engagement

    Yesufu also expressed appreciation to supporters of the #AishaForSenate movement, describing their backing as encouraging during her brief campaign period.

    She said she would continue her engagements across the six area councils of the FCT, promising to sustain her advocacy and grassroots outreach despite withdrawing from the race.

    “In the coming week I will be returning back to all the 6 Area Councils God willing to appreciate them for the warm welcome and continue to forge ahead for a #BetterFCT,” she said.

    Political Realignments Within NDC

    Yesufu had only recently declared her intention to contest the FCT Senate seat on May 6, shortly after joining the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a desire to participate more directly in political leadership.

    Her withdrawal comes amid speculation of internal realignments within the party over the FCT senatorial structure, although the NDC has not issued an official clarification.

    The development adds another layer to early political positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections, as parties continue internal restructuring and candidate selection processes.

  • NDC Confirms May 29 Primaries Nationwide Amid Eid Holiday Disruptions

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed that its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries will hold nationwide on Friday, May 29, 2026, despite logistical disruptions caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays.

    The party disclosed this in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, and National Secretary, Barr. Ikenna Enekweizu, following concerns over movement challenges affecting aspirants and party officials across the country.

    NDC Explains Eid Holiday Adjustments

    According to the statement, the party’s original timetable for May 28 and 29 remains valid, but transportation difficulties and limited flight availability disrupted the movement of aspirants and screening committee members after the screening exercise in Abuja.

    The party said May 28 would now be used for arrivals, consultations, INEC documentation, meetings with security agencies and stakeholder engagements across various states ahead of the primaries.

    “Consequently, the party has decided that May 28 should be used for arrivals, documentation with INEC and security agencies, consultative meetings, and other preparations, while the actual primaries will now hold on May 29,” the statement read.

    Party Warns Against Unauthorized Activities

    The NDC stressed that no agency of government, including the police, INEC, Department of State Services (DSS) or any other institution, is expected to participate in activities scheduled for May 28 outside official consultations.

    The party warned that any engagement outside the approved guidelines would be regarded as illegal and unauthorized.

    “No agencies of the state, viz., police, INEC, DSS, etc., are to play any role in the programs and meetings of May 28. Any activities carried out outside these guidelines would be unauthorized and deemed illegal,” the statement added.

    Order Of Primaries Announced

    The party also released the sequence for the nationwide exercise scheduled for May 29.

    According to the NDC, the process will begin with the presidential affirmation, followed by National Assembly primaries and affirmations, State Assembly primaries and affirmations, before concluding with governorship primaries and affirmations.

    It added that all results from across the states would be forwarded to the National Headquarters, where the National Working Committee (NWC) would officially announce the final outcomes.

    The party insisted that no state executive or electoral committee has the authority to independently declare results.

    “We call for understanding and urge all participants to conduct themselves responsibly, as the party has zero tolerance for violence, disorderly conduct, and hooliganism,” the statement noted.

    Electoral Committees Released

    The NDC also unveiled members of its electoral committees assigned to oversee the nationwide primaries across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Among those appointed are Professor Osita Ogbu for Anambra State, Dr. Osusu Osusu for Rivers State, Chief Barnabas Ejisi for the FCT, Dr. Peter Onigah for Ebonyi State, and Alhaji Sidi Abdul Bomi for Lagos State.

    Others include Dr. Kebiru Umoru for Delta State, Barr. Fredrick Owotorufa for Edo State, Comrade Babatunde Ali for Imo State, Dr. Clement Agiangie for Akwa Ibom State, and Mainasara Sani Abubakar for Kano State.

    The party said the constitution of the committees reflects its commitment to credible and transparent primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The latest development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections amid growing political realignments and internal consultations across the country.

  • Peter Obi Urges Nigerians to Demand Better Governance, Cites Power Gap With South Africa

    Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to take a more active role in demanding accountability and improved governance, especially in tackling the country’s persistent electricity crisis.

    Obi made the call on Monday night while speaking at the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) aspirants dinner held in Abuja.

    Obi Highlights Power Generation Gap

    During his remarks, the former Anambra State governor drew a comparison between Nigeria’s electricity output and that of South Africa, describing the gap as a reflection of long-standing governance failures.

    “Nigeria produces just about 4,000 megawatts while South Africa generates over 40,000 megawatts,” Obi reportedly said at the event.

    He stressed that despite Nigeria’s population size and resource base, successive administrations have failed to deliver stable electricity supply.

    Call for Long-Term National Thinking

    Obi also urged Nigerians to adopt a long-term perspective in national development, insisting that leaders must prioritise the future of younger generations.

    He said the country must focus on building systems that will benefit “our children,” rather than short-term political gains.

    The event reportedly had in attendance notable figures including singer 2Baba Idibia and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who interacted with guests at the dinner.

    Reactions and Political Undertones

    Supporters at the event praised Obi’s consistent advocacy for good governance since the 2023 general elections, describing him as a strong voice for transparency and reform.

    However, some critics dismissed the gathering and questioned its political relevance, arguing that it lacked clear structure and substance.

    Despite differing opinions, Obi’s message continued to resonate with Nigerians concerned about infrastructure challenges and economic hardship.

    Obi has remained active in public discourse since the last election, frequently speaking on governance, economic reforms, and national development priorities.

  • Peter Obi Clears NDC Presidential Screening, Emerges Sole Flagbearer for 2027 Election

    Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has been screened and cleared by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The screening exercise held on May 19, 2026, at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, where officials reviewed his academic certificates, NYSC documents, age declarations, and his broader vision for national leadership.

    Screening Process in Abuja

    The exercise was chaired by former governor Sam Egwu, who led the committee responsible for evaluating all aspirants and engaging them on their policy direction for the country.

    Party officials said Obi was taken through a detailed review process before being cleared after meeting all requirements set by the party.

    Sole Aspirant for Presidential Ticket

    Following the exercise, Obi was cleared and issued the presidential nomination form, becoming the only aspirant who purchased and completed the screening process.

    Party officials subsequently confirmed him as the NDC presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, positioning him as the party’s flagbearer ahead of the primaries.

    Political Realignment Ahead of 2027

    Obi, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party, is now aligned with the NDC following reported opposition realignments ahead of the next election cycle.

    His clearance has already triggered political reactions, with supporters describing it as a major step in his presidential ambition.

    He ended his post with his signature slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible. – PO”

    The development adds to early political momentum as parties begin formal preparations for the 2027 general elections.

  • Peter Obi Emerges Sole Presidential Aspirant As NDC Closes 2027 Nomination Forms

    Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has emerged as the sole presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following the closure of the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the 2027 presidential election.

    Sources within the party disclosed that Obi was the only aspirant who purchased the presidential nomination forms before the deadline expired.

    NDC Extends Deadline For Other Positions

    The NDC, however, announced a one-week extension for aspirants seeking governorship, Senate, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly tickets.

    In a statement issued by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu, the deadline earlier fixed for May 17 was extended to midnight of May 24, 2026.

    According to the statement, the extension applies only to legislative and governorship aspirants, while the presidential nomination process has officially closed.

    “The collection of Expression of Interest Forms for the office of the President has officially closed,” the statement noted.

    Screening To Begin May 19

    The party disclosed that screening and pre-qualification interviews for aspirants who purchased and completed the forms would commence on Tuesday, May 19, and end on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

    It added that the collection and return of Nomination Forms for screened and cleared aspirants would begin on May 20 and close on May 26.

    The NDC warned that no further extension would be granted beyond the new deadline.

    Party Lists Requirements For Aspirants

    The party directed all aspirants to appear before the screening committee with relevant documents, including educational certificates, birth certificate or declaration of age, passport photographs, voter’s card, NDC membership card and curriculum vitae.

    According to the statement, all submitted documents must be provided in six copies.

    The NDC also stated that aspirants would be assessed based on competence, character, capacity, local realities and the wishes of the electorate.

    The party further instructed the screening committee to consider its affirmative action policy for women, youths and persons living with disabilities during the exercise.

    Consensus Encouraged Ahead Of Primaries

    The party encouraged aspirants contesting for other elective offices to embrace consensus-building ahead of the primaries.

    It also stressed that only aspirants cleared through the screening process would be eligible to proceed with nomination forms.

  • Fubara Denies Dumping APC For NDC Amid Fresh Rivers Political Crisis

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denied reports claiming he dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).

    The governor spoke with journalists on Wednesday, insisting that he remains a member of the APC despite growing political tension in Rivers State.

    “Nothing has changed,” Fubara says

    Fubara dismissed social media reports suggesting he had defected from the ruling party.

    According to him, his loyalty to the APC remains intact.

    “I’m a member of the APC, and nothing has changed. Whatever happens, what is important is supporting the overall interest of the party,” he said.

    The clarification followed widespread reports on Tuesday alleging that the governor had moved to the NDC amid the ongoing political crisis in the state.

    Fresh twist in Rivers APC crisis

    The controversy comes amid renewed tension between Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

    The political dispute reportedly escalated after the APC House of Assembly Screening Committee disqualified all 32 aspirants allegedly backed by the governor ahead of the party primaries for the 2027 Assembly election.

    However, the committee cleared 29 serving lawmakers loyal to Wike, including lawmakers led by Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, to participate in the primaries.

    Reports also indicated that the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, obtained the APC nomination form to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives.

    Committee submits screening report

    According to reports, 98 aspirants appeared before the four-member screening panel set up by the APC National Working Committee.

    The exercise reportedly took place at the party secretariat in Port Harcourt over the weekend.

    A copy of the committee’s report, signed by Muraina Ajibola, Ishaku Tanko Yamawo, Abdullah Hajia Aisha Abdullahi Adamu, and Danjuma Samuel, stated that the process was conducted using a “transparent, orderly and participatory procedure.”

    Defection of Fubara’s ally fuels speculation

    Political tension further intensified after Blessing Fubara Snr, described as a close political ally and elder brother to the governor, reportedly defected from the APC to the NDC.

    Supporters of the move claimed it was driven by alleged humiliation and manipulation within the APC screening process.

    The development has continued to fuel speculation over possible political realignments in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections.