Welcome

Tag: Nigeria Politics

  • ALGON Backs Tinubu for 2027, Suspends Three LG Chairmen Over Misconduct

    The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections, while also announcing the suspension of three local government chairmen over alleged misconduct.

    The decisions were reached at the association’s 54th Expanded National Executive Council meeting held in Abuja.

    Endorsement rooted in ‘continuity’

    The meeting, chaired by ALGON National President Bello Lawal, brought together members from all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and past leaders of the association.

    A former ALGON President, Alabi Kolade David, moved the motion for Tinubu’s endorsement, which was seconded by Plateau State ALGON Chairman, Anani Hamisu Mohammed.

    In a communiqué issued after the meeting, Mohammed said the endorsement was based on the belief that continuity would strengthen governance at the grassroots.

    “A second term will deepen grassroots governance and consolidate ongoing reforms,” he said.

    Renewed Hope Agenda cited

    ALGON said its support for Tinubu was tied to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which it claimed had improved fiscal capacity and autonomy at the local government level.

    According to the association, stronger councils would enhance service delivery, deepen democracy, and bring governance closer to the people.

    It added that ongoing reforms have positioned local governments to better meet their constitutional responsibilities.

    Three chairmen suspended

    Meanwhile, the council announced the suspension of three local government chairmen.

    They are Zakari Iliyasu of Agwara LGA in Niger State, Abubakar Danladi Abdullahi of Kaiama LGA in Kwara State, and Abba Shehu Tambuwal of Tambuwal LGA in Sokoto State.

    ALGON said the officials were suspended over allegations including impersonation, actions against the association’s interest, and abuse of constitutional provisions.

    Warning to MDAs, partners

    The association warned ministries, departments and agencies, state governments, and development partners against engaging with the suspended officials.

    It stressed that the affected chairmen no longer have authority to act on behalf of ALGON in any capacity.

    Vote of confidence in leadership

    ALGON also passed a vote of confidence in its national president, Bello Lawal, reaffirming support for his leadership.

    The council pledged continued commitment to unity within the association and policies aimed at strengthening grassroots development.

    The endorsement adds to a growing list of political backing for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

  • “I Am Not Desperate for Power” — Peter Obi Opens Up on Pressure, ADC Exit

    Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has opened up on the pressures he faces in Nigeria’s political space, while explaining his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Obi speaks on silent struggles

    In a reflective message shared on Sunday morning, Obi said many Nigerians do not understand the private emotional and psychological burdens carried by individuals working within the system.

    He described the current environment as toxic, marked by intimidation, insecurity, and constant scrutiny.

    “Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily… the private struggles and quiet battles we face while trying to serve sincerely,” he said.

    Concerns over Nigeria’s political climate

    Obi criticised what he described as a system that often works against the people, noting that even allies sometimes become sources of pressure.

    He said humility and compassion are often misinterpreted as weakness, while fairness is questioned in a society driven by status and power.

    “We live in a society where humility is mistaken for weakness… and compassion is treated as foolishness,” he stated.

    Clarifies reason for leaving ADC

    Addressing his exit from the ADC, Obi said his decision was not due to personal issues with party leaders.

    He maintained respect for figures such as David Mark and Atiku Abubakar, insisting that no individual conflict influenced his move.

    According to him, growing internal crises, court cases, and divisions within the party mirrored challenges he previously experienced.

    “The same Nigerian state and its agents that created crises in the Labour Party now appear to be finding their way into the ADC,” he said.

    Responds to criticism and attacks

    Obi also spoke about continued criticism even after stepping away, saying his intentions are often questioned despite efforts to engage constructively.

    He added that individuals working sincerely are sometimes treated as outsiders within their own political spaces.

    “When you choose to leave… you are still maligned and your character is questioned,” he said.

    Focus remains on Nigeria, not power

    The former governor stressed that his ambition is not driven by a desire for political office but by a commitment to national development.

    “I am not desperate to be President… I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not go to bed hungry,” he said.

    He highlighted issues such as insecurity, poverty, and displacement, calling for leadership rooted in service, compassion, and justice.

    Reaffirms belief in Nigeria

    Despite the challenges, Obi said he remains hopeful about the country’s future and committed to contributing to its progress.

    “A new Nigeria is possible,” he added.

  • Kwankwaso Denies Defection Plans, Says Talks Ongoing Amid ADC Crisis

    Former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has dismissed reports claiming he has concluded plans to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying no final decision has been made.

    Kwankwaso reacts to defection claims

    In a statement shared on his X account, Kwankwaso said ongoing consultations are being held but stressed that his political future remains undecided.

    “We have commenced wide-ranging consultations… to explore the best options for protecting our democratic interests,” he said.

    ADC crisis fuels consultations

    He pointed to the lingering leadership crisis within the ADC as a key reason for the ongoing talks.

    Kwankwaso noted that the recent Supreme Court ruling, which affirmed the David Mark-led leadership but returned parts of the dispute to the lower court, has left the party in a difficult position.

    Court rulings deepen uncertainty

    The former governor also referenced a Federal High Court judgment that invalidated the party’s convention, alongside moves to deregister the ADC.

    He said the situation mirrors the legal challenges that earlier forced him out of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

    “The ADC has now been also forced into this difficulty,” he stated.

    Talks with NDC, PRP ongoing

    Kwankwaso confirmed that discussions are ongoing with leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and other stakeholders.

    He assured that a final decision would be communicated at the appropriate time.

    No position yet on 2027 race

    Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Kwankwaso said he has neither declared interest nor endorsed any candidate.

    He reiterated his history of supporting party unity, recalling his roles in previous primaries and elections.

    Absence from meetings explained

    Kwankwaso also clarified that his absence from recent ADC stakeholders’ meetings was due to prior commitments, adding that party leaders were informed in advance.

  • Obi, Kwankwaso Set to Dump ADC for NDC Amid Fresh Coalition Crisis

    Fresh cracks have emerged within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition as indications show that Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso may be set to defect to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Defection plans reach final stage

    Habibu Mohammed, spokesperson of the Kwankwasiyya movement, said discussions with the NDC are nearly complete.

    According to him, negotiations are “about 90 percent” concluded, with the planned defection expected within days.

    “I believe him, Peter Obi, and some others will be joining the NDC,” Mohammed said.

    Stakeholders back move unanimously

    Mohammed disclosed that stakeholders across the 44 local government areas in Kano met and endorsed the decision.

    He said the meeting, held at Kwankwaso’s residence, produced a unanimous agreement to leave the ADC.

    “The stakeholders have unanimously given him the go-ahead to move to the NDC,” he added.

    ADC crisis fuels exit talks

    The decision is linked to ongoing leadership disputes within the ADC.

    The Supreme Court had recently referred the party’s leadership case back to the Federal High Court, prolonging uncertainty.

    Mohammed said the development raised concerns about stability within the coalition.

    “It does not look feasible to stay there,” he said, citing possible prolonged litigation.

    Internal disagreements deepen divide

    He also pointed to unresolved internal issues, including disagreements over zoning and consensus candidacy.

    Peter Obi has reportedly stayed away from recent ADC meetings following concerns that zoning was not addressed.

    2027 calculations shape decisions

    The Kwankwasiyya movement said it considered other platforms, including the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), before settling on the NDC.

    Mohammed noted that looming deadlines for submission of party registers to INEC also influenced the decision.

    The development signals growing uncertainty within opposition ranks as political alignments continue to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • Tinubu Heads to France, Kenya, Rwanda for Key Economic Summits

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-nation visit to France, Kenya and Rwanda to attend high-level economic and diplomatic engagements.

    Trip begins with France stop

    The development was disclosed in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    According to the statement, Tinubu will first visit France before proceeding to Nairobi, Kenya, for the Africa-France Summit.

    Focus on Africa-France partnerships

    The summit, scheduled for May 11 to May 12, will be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto.

    It is expected to focus on energy transition, green industrialisation, digital transformation, global financing reforms, and climate action.

    The event will also provide a platform for discussions on economic growth, infrastructure, youth development, and regional cooperation.

    Next stop: Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda

    Following the Kenya engagement, Tinubu will travel to Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum scheduled for May 14 to May 15.

    The forum will bring together over 2,000 business leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss strategies for economic transformation and cross-border investment.

    Held in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the event will centre on scaling African businesses and strengthening regional integration.

    Tinubu to engage global leaders

    During the trip, the president is expected to deliver key statements on Nigeria’s economic reforms and investment prospects.

    He will also hold meetings with global and African business leaders to strengthen partnerships.

    Tinubu will be accompanied by senior government officials and is expected to return to Nigeria after the Rwanda summit.

  • Sowore Slams Nigeria’s Pay Structure, Says Leaders Earn More Than Workers

    Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has criticised Nigeria’s income structure, saying those in power earn far more than ordinary workers despite contributing less.

    Sowore raises concern over income inequality

    Speaking on inequality under the current administration, Sowore said the country’s compensation system is skewed against workers.

    “In this country, the people that are working are the least paid, and the people who don’t work are the well paid,” he said.

    Claims on lawmakers’ earnings spark debate

    Sowore alleged that an average Nigerian senator earns over ₦30 million monthly, despite limited legislative sittings.

    He argued that such earnings are disproportionate when compared to the financial struggles faced by everyday Nigerians.

    Workers struggle despite daily efforts

    According to him, many workers are unable to afford basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education, despite working consistently.

    He said the situation reflects a system that prioritises political office holders over the labour force.

    Call for shift in leadership priorities

    Sowore called for urgent reforms, insisting that leadership must prioritise the welfare of workers.

    “The greatest work on our hands now is to drive away the enemies of workers who are occupying positions of power in this country,” he added.

    He maintained that addressing inequality in governance and public sector pay is critical to improving living conditions.

  • Man Storms APC Secretariat in Abuja, Demands Reward for 2023 Campaign Work

    A Nigerian man on Thursday stormed the national secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja, demanding what he described as compensation for his role in the party’s 2023 election campaigns.

    Protester carries emotional placard

    The man, dressed in an APC-branded blue shirt, was seen holding a placard with the message: “Reward me or kill me,” as he expressed frustration over alleged abandonment by the party.

    He claimed he had suffered severe personal and financial losses after actively working for the APC during the last general elections.

    Claims of hardship and family struggles

    In a viral video circulating on social media, the man said he sold his house while supporting the party’s campaign activities and now has no means of survival.

    “I sold my house because of the debt I seemed to owe APC… because of the work I worked for APC,” he said.

    He also alleged that he could no longer afford his children’s school fees, claiming he had left them at the party secretariat out of desperation.

    “I dropped my children with the CSO and APC because I cannot take care of them again,” he added.

    Tension at APC headquarters

    The video showed the man pacing the entrance of the secretariat while raising his placard and shouting, as security personnel stood by and onlookers recorded the incident.

    He further alleged threats from a Chief Security Officer at the facility, though this claim was not independently verified.

    No official response from APC

    As of the time the footage circulated online, no APC official had publicly addressed the protest or responded to the allegations raised by the man.

  • Makinde Breaks Silence on 2027 Succession Debate, Urges Caution Over Religion Talks

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has addressed the growing debate over who should succeed him in 2027, urging residents to prioritise unity and divine guidance rather than religious considerations. He spoke on Wednesday in Ibadan during a farewell event for intending Muslim pilgrims.

    His remarks come amid rising calls from some groups advocating for a Muslim governor to emerge next.

    Governor Responds to Rising Calls for Religious Balance

    In recent months, stakeholders including market leaders, transport unions, and traditional figures such as Mogajis and Baales have pushed for a Muslim successor. They argue that such a move would sustain religious balance in the state’s leadership.

    The conversation has gained momentum as early political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

    Makinde Urges Focus on Leadership, Not Religion

    Speaking in Yoruba, the governor cautioned against narrowing the debate to religious identity. He said leadership decisions should be guided by what benefits the state rather than political calculations.

    “I have heard that the next governor should be a Muslim. I want to beg you to pray that God should choose for us,” he said, adding that the priority should be someone who can build on existing progress.

    Governor Highlights Representation Pattern in Senate

    Makinde also referenced what he described as a consistent pattern in Oyo State’s representation at the National Assembly. He noted that recent Senate delegations from the state have been dominated by Muslim lawmakers.

    According to him, all three senators in the current and previous assemblies are Muslims, raising questions about the basis for calls centred solely on religious identity.

    Call for Unity as Political Tensions Build

    The governor stressed the need for unity among residents, questioning whether electoral outcomes should be reduced to religious affiliations. He urged citizens to focus on collective progress rather than divisive narratives.

    “Is it only Muslims who voted that got them elected?” he asked.

    2027 Race Begins to Take Shape

    Makinde’s comments come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the next election cycle, with discussions around zoning, religion, and representation gaining traction. His intervention signals an attempt to steer the conversation toward inclusivity and governance.

  • Kano LG Chairman Distributes Detergents to Women, Sparks Mixed Reactions in Kiru

    The Chairman of Kiru Local Government Area in Kano State, Abdullahi Saidu, has distributed detergents to 500 women as part of an empowerment initiative, triggering mixed reactions across the community. The items were shared with beneficiaries from Yalwa ward.

    The intervention comes at a time of increasing grassroots political activities ahead of future elections.

    Detergent Distribution Targets Household Support

    According to reports, the items distributed included brands such as Omo, Klin and Viva. The chairman said the initiative was designed to support women and reduce some of their domestic burdens.

    He described the effort as part of ongoing attempts to reach vulnerable groups within the local government area.

    Similar Outreach Seen Across Constituency

    The development follows a related intervention by the member representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa. He recently distributed diapers to pregnant women in parts of the constituency.

    Observers say such programmes are becoming more common as political engagement at the community level begins to intensify.

    Residents React, Question Impact of Initiative

    The detergent distribution has, however, drawn criticism from some residents who questioned its impact. Several voices described the gesture as inadequate, calling for more meaningful and sustainable support.

    Muhammad Aliyu Junaid criticised the move, suggesting the items did not address pressing needs. Others echoed similar concerns about the value of the intervention.

    Calls Grow for Sustainable Empowerment

    Some stakeholders argued that empowerment efforts should focus on long-term economic benefits rather than short-term relief. They said initiatives that support income generation would have a more lasting impact on households.

    Residents also raised concerns about the optics of such programmes, particularly when widely publicised.

  • Adeyanju Alleges Obi Kept Anambra Funds in Bank With Personal Interest, Sparks Debate

    Activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has alleged that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi placed state funds in a bank where he had personal interests. The claim, made during a podcast appearance, has sparked fresh debate around Obi’s record in office.

    Adeyanju made the remarks on the Honest Bunch podcast while appearing alongside former senator Shehu Sani.

    Adeyanju Makes Claim During Podcast Appearance

    Speaking during the discussion, Adeyanju said Obi allegedly deposited Anambra State funds in a financial institution in which he had interests. He argued that the decision raised questions about potential conflict of interest.

    “Instead of using state money to work for his people, he kept his state’s money in a bank that he had interests in,” he said during the broadcast.

    He further suggested that the motive behind the alleged action was obvious, insisting it was done for personal benefit.

    Comments Trigger Fresh Scrutiny of Obi’s Record

    The remarks have drawn attention online, with clips from the podcast circulating across social media platforms. Some commentators have questioned the claim, while others say it adds to ongoing scrutiny of public officials’ financial decisions while in office.

    The allegation has not been independently verified, and no supporting documents were presented during the discussion.

    Background on Obi’s Tenure as Governor

    Peter Obi served as governor of Anambra State until March 2014 and has often been referenced for claims that he left significant savings for the state. Reports at the time indicated that he handed over more than ₦75 billion in cash and investments.

    The latest claim has revived conversations around how those funds were managed during his administration.

    No Immediate Response From Obi

    As of the time of filing this report, Peter Obi has not publicly responded to the allegation made by Adeyanju. The absence of an official reaction has left the issue largely within the realm of public debate.

    Observers note that such claims, especially when unverified, are likely to continue generating discussion, particularly as political activities ahead of future elections gather momentum.

    Allegation Fuels Ongoing Political Discourse

    The development adds to the stream of political commentary and counterclaims involving key figures in Nigeria’s political space. While the allegation remains unproven, it has further intensified conversations around transparency, accountability, and the management of public funds.