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Category: Politics

  • APC announces guidelines, committees, and coordinators for 2026 presidential primaries

    APC announces guidelines, committees, and coordinators for 2026 presidential primaries

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially released the guidelines and committee lists for the conduct of its 2026 presidential primaries, reaffirming its commitment to a transparent and credible nomination process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    In a press statement signed by Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, the party’s National Secretary, the APC confirmed that the decisions were approved by the National Working Committee (NWC) in line with the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act. The primaries will be conducted through a direct voting system across Nigeria’s 8,809 wards, with results collated at local government and state levels before final declaration in Abuja.

    The Presidential Primary Election Committee, chaired by Senator John Akpan Udoedehe, includes Senator Ken Nnamani, Senator Victor Ndoma‑Egba (SAN), Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and Mr Sani Musa as Secretary. The Appeal Committee will be led by Rt. Hon. Aminu Masari (CON), with Mr Samuel Piwuna serving as Secretary and Hon. Patricia Obuqumiri Etteh as a member.

    The party also announced the appointment of State Coordinators and Collation Officers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Among them are Senator Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Senator Uba Sani (Kaduna), Senator Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (Kebbi), and Hajia Zainab Ahmed (FCT).

    According to the circular, the primaries will culminate in Abuja on 26 May 2026, where the final results will be presented to the national committee. The process will adhere strictly to the “Procedure for the Conduct of Direct and Consensus Modes of Primaries” earlier submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under reference APC/HND/INEC/PRS‑DOCS/01‑05/26.

    “The decisions were approved by the Party’s National Working Committee (NWC) in accordance with the Constitution of the Party, the Electoral Act, and APC’s commitment to a transparent and credible primary election process,” the statement read.

  • ADC welcomes court ruling on INEC guidelines, predicts defections from APC

    ADC welcomes court ruling on INEC guidelines, predicts defections from APC

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress has welcomed a Federal High Court ruling on deadlines for party primaries and other provisions contained in the electoral guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

    In a statement released on Thursday by Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the judgment as a vindication of its earlier objections to aspects of INEC’s regulations. According to the ADC, it had previously raised concerns over strict timelines relating to membership registration and the conduct of party primaries, arguing that some of the provisions contradicted constitutional principles.

    “The decision of the Court on these issues, including those that directly contradict the Constitution, is therefore a welcome vindication of our position,” the party stated.

    The ADC also praised the aspect of the ruling, which it said removed restrictions affecting politicians seeking to contest elections on alternative political platforms.

    According to the party, the judgment strengthens freedom of association and protects the rights of politicians to align with political parties of their choice.

    The opposition party further alleged that the earlier restrictions were designed to discourage defections from the ruling All Progressives Congress. “We believed at the time that that particular restriction was designed to prevent people from leaving the ruling party, APC,” the statement added.

    The ADC expressed confidence that the court’s decision could trigger fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    “Now that the court has ruled against it, we are sure that, in the coming days, we will witness a mass exodus from the ruling party,” the party stated.

    The ruling is expected to shape political calculations among parties and aspirants as preparations intensify ahead of the next electoral cycle in Nigeria, especially those who failed to secure party tickets in the primary elections.

  • Presidency denies report claiming Tinubu plans to rename Nigeria, abolish Sharia Law

    Presidency denies report claiming Tinubu plans to rename Nigeria, abolish Sharia Law

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Presidency has dismissed as false reports circulating online alleging that Bola Ahmed Tinubu is planning constitutional amendments to change Nigeria’s name to the “United States of Nigeria” and abolish Sharia Law in the northern region of the country.

    In a statement issued on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency described the viral report as fake, misleading and aimed at creating political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    According to the statement, the story, which allegedly cited anonymous sources, forms part of attempts by “desperate politicians” to create disaffection, destabilise the country and inflame the political atmosphere.

    “The Presidency wishes to inform Nigerians and state clearly that there is no truth to the viral fake story,” the statement said.

    The Presidency also denied claims that President Tinubu intends to transmit any bill allegedly code-named “Project True Federation” to the National Assembly by December 15.

    According to the statement, a constitutional amendment is a serious legislative process that cannot be carried out unilaterally by the President or the National Assembly.

    The Presidency explained that under Nigerian law, constitutional amendments require the approval of a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly of Nigeria as well as concurrence from at least 24 State Houses of Assembly.

    The statement stressed that President Tinubu remains focused on implementing economic reforms and delivering what it described as tangible dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

    The Presidency further urged citizens to be cautious of fake and divisive reports expected to intensify as political campaigns ahead of the January 2027 general elections gather momentum.

    It warned Nigerians against falling for misinformation spread by individuals described as “agents of destabilisation and merchants of disorder.”

  • APC reschedules governorship, assembly primaries in Bauchi, Kwara, Zamfara

    APC reschedules governorship, assembly primaries in Bauchi, Kwara, Zamfara

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The All Progressives Congress has announced the rescheduling of its governorship primary elections in Bauchi State and Kwara State to Friday, May 22, 2026.

    The party also approved the rescheduling of State House of Assembly primary elections for Maradun I and Maradun II constituencies in Zamfara State to Sunday, May 24, 2026.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by Felix Morka, National Publicity Secretary of the APC.

    According to the statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, CON, the decision was approved by the National Working Committee of the party following consultations with relevant stakeholders.

    The APC stated that the adjustment forms part of efforts to ensure a transparent, orderly, peaceful and credible primary election process across the affected states.

    The party, however, did not disclose specific reasons for the postponement of the primaries.

    The rescheduled elections are expected to determine the party’s candidates ahead of the forthcoming governorship and State House of Assembly elections.

  • Pakistan PM Sharif hails strong ties with China at 75th Diplomatic Anniversary

    Pakistan PM Sharif hails strong ties with China at 75th Diplomatic Anniversary

    ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (NPA) — Shehbaz Sharif has praised the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and China during a ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries.

    Speaking on Thursday in Islamabad before Pakistani and Chinese officials as well as members of the diplomatic corps, Prime Minister Sharif described the relationship between the two nations as historic and enduring.

    According to him, Pakistan was the first Muslim-majority country to officially recognise China and among the earliest countries globally to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing.

    “Seventy-five years ago, our founding fathers laid down the foundation of our bilateral diplomatic relations, and it went to the credit of Pakistan that we were the first Muslim country to recognise China and one of the first few countries around the globe,” Sharif stated.

    The Pakistani leader said relations between the two countries have continued to grow stronger over the decades, noting that China has consistently stood by Pakistan during difficult periods.

    “Throughout these 75 years, Chinese leadership and the people of China stood with Pakistan like a solid rock,” he added.

    Sharif also recalled Pakistan’s role in strengthening ties with China during the 1960s, referencing the historic first flight that landed in Beijing decades ago as part of expanding engagement between both nations.

    The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the One China policy, stressing that Islamabad would continue to support Beijing without hesitation.

    “To this day and forever, we will support the One China policy without fear or favour,” he said.

    Sharif further described the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a major symbol of China’s commitment to Pakistan’s economic development.

    According to him, the project, established under the Belt and Road Initiative championed by Xi Jinping, has contributed significantly to infrastructure growth and economic progress across Pakistan.

    The anniversary event highlighted decades of diplomatic, economic and strategic cooperation between the two countries, widely regarded as close regional allies.

  • Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    Starmer says UK net migration down 82%, unveils free bus travel plan amid deepening economic hardship

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Keir Starmer has claimed that net migration into the United Kingdom has fallen by 82 per cent, saying his government is delivering on its promise to restore control of British borders and strengthen national security.

    In a statement he issued on Thursday, the British Prime Minister said his administration remains committed to overhauling the country’s immigration system and reducing dependence on foreign labour, which fuels mass immigration to the United Kingdom.

    “I know there’s more to do. We’re introducing a skills-based migration system that rewards contribution and ends our reliance on cheap overseas workers,” Starmer stated.

    The Prime Minister said the measures form part of broader efforts by his government to build what he described as a more secure and economically stable Britain.

    However, analysts and critics have continued to raise concerns over illegal migration into the country, alleging that approximately 70,000 illegal migrants have entered the UK through the English Channel since Starmer assumed office as Prime Minister.

    According to reports, the majority of the migrants reportedly applied for asylum upon arrival, fueling ongoing debate over border security and pressure on public services and the British economy.

    The issue of illegal migration remains one of the most contentious political challenges facing the UK government amid rising economic concerns and growing public scrutiny over immigration policies.

    In another development, Starmer announced that children across England will enjoy free bus travel throughout August as part of measures aimed at easing financial pressure on families.

    “We know that families are still feeling the cost-of-living pressure, so we’re delivering immediate support,” the Prime Minister said in a separate statement.

    According to him, the initiative is designed to help families cope with rising living expenses during the school holiday period while also reducing transportation costs for households.

    Starmer further disclosed that his administration is taking additional steps to reduce the cost of everyday food items and put more money back into the pockets of citizens.

    The announcement comes amid mounting economic pressures in the United Kingdom, including inflation concerns and the impact of ongoing instability linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

    Earlier, the British government unveiled plans to subsidise groceries for struggling families as part of wider measures aimed at cushioning the effects of the cost-of-living crisis across the country.

  • NDC announces updated membership cards, urges members to re-download

    NDC announces updated membership cards, urges members to re-download

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — One of Nigeria’s opposition parties, the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has announced the release of updated membership cards for its registered members nationwide.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the party disclosed that it had completed major upgrades to its membership system as part of efforts to improve efficiency, harmonise member records and strengthen data protection.

    According to the party, the updates include a refreshed design for all membership cards, full harmonization of its databases and the standardization of membership codes for both online and offline registered members.

    The NDC stated that the changes were introduced following requests and feedback from members across the country.

    The party also announced the removal of Date of Birth and Address details from membership cards to enhance privacy and better protect members’ personal information.

    “All registered members are kindly requested to re-download their updated membership cards,” the statement said.

    The party urged members to obtain the new cards as soon as possible through its official membership portal.

    Members can download the updated cards through the party’s official platform, NDC Membership Portal.

  • Ebonyi Governor lifts suspension of Oriuzor-Ezza school headteacher amid public outcry

    Ebonyi Governor lifts suspension of Oriuzor-Ezza school headteacher amid public outcry

    ABAKALIKI, Nigeria — The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has directed the immediate lifting of the suspension reportedly placed on Mr Iloke Hyacinth of CPS Obulechi Umoru Oriuzor in Ezza North Local Government Area following widespread discussions on social media platforms.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media. According to the statement, Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to the welfare of teachers, pupils and the continuous improvement of learning conditions across schools in the state.

    The government also stated that ongoing efforts are being made to strengthen educational infrastructure, particularly within the affected area.

    According to the statement, the state government is currently undertaking massive school building projects at Community Primary School Unwuigboke and Community Primary School Unwuezeali, both located in Oriuzor, as part of broader efforts to provide a more conducive learning environment for pupils.

    The government acknowledged that some communities across the state still face infrastructural challenges but assured residents that sustained efforts are ongoing to address the issues progressively.

    The statement further noted that while all developmental needs may not be met simultaneously, the administration remains focused on expanding access to quality education and improving public infrastructure across Ebonyi State.

    The government appreciated citizens and media organisations for their concern over developments in the education sector and reiterated its commitment to the well-being of residents and the delivery of quality education across the state.

    Recall that Community Primary Schools in Oriuzor, Ebonyi State, recently trended on social media after a viral video revealed the dire conditions under which pupils were learning. A video published by Ezza TV showed children studying in unfinished, poorly furnished classrooms with inadequate facilities. The footage highlighted crumbling walls, a lack of desks, and unsafe learning environments, drawing national attention to the neglect of the rural school.

    In response, the Ezza North Local Government Education Authority reportedly suspended the headteachers of the affected schools, alleging they had invited the content creator to film. The content creator denied the claim, insisting he documented the conditions independently after witnessing the plight of the children.

    The suspension letters circulated online, triggering public outrage. Many Nigerians criticised the government for punishing teachers instead of fixing the schools.

  • Jigawa partners StarAgri to support 20,000 rice farmers, Bauchi delegation studies MASAKI programme

    Jigawa partners StarAgri to support 20,000 rice farmers, Bauchi delegation studies MASAKI programme

    DUTSE, Nigeria — Umar Namadi has announced a major partnership between the Jigawa State Government and StarAgri West Africa Limited to support 20,000 rice farmers participating in dry season farming across the state.

    Governor Namadi said the agreement represents another important step by his administration to strengthen agriculture and reduce the burden facing farmers due to rising production costs.

    According to the governor, agriculture remains the main source of livelihood for thousands of families in Jigawa, but increasing costs of farm inputs, fuel and irrigation have continued to make farming difficult for ordinary farmers.

    He noted that many farmers are eager to return to their farms, but economic challenges have made the process increasingly difficult, adding that the situation informed the partnership with StarAgri West Africa Limited.

    Under the agreement, the Jigawa State Government will provide a 30 percent subsidy on agricultural inputs for participating farmers. The administration also approved the distribution of 6,000 solar-powered water pumps under a flexible repayment arrangement spread across two years.

    Governor Namadi said the intervention is expected to significantly improve dry season farming activities and boost food production in the state.

    The governor commended Sandy Eyal and the management of StarAgri West Africa Limited for partnering with the state and supporting local farmers.

    He also praised the Ministry of Agriculture, JASCO and members of the agricultural technical committee for their efforts in facilitating the agreement.

    “At the end of the day, what matters most is whether the ordinary farmer feels the impact. That is the standard we continue to hold ourselves to,” the governor stated.

    In another development, Governor Namadi received a delegation from Bauchi State led by the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Sani Muhammad Dambam, who visited Jigawa to understudy the state’s MASAKI nutrition programme and other community-based healthcare interventions.

    The governor said he was encouraged by the delegation’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery in Bauchi State, noting that the team had toured several programme sites and interacted directly with technical staff and frontline health workers.

    Governor Namadi stressed that the fight against malnutrition remains a major priority for his administration, noting that poor nutrition continues to affect children and vulnerable families across communities.

    He explained that the MASAKI programme, alongside initiatives such as the Tom Brown programme, was introduced to improve child nutrition while also empowering women economically.

    According to him, women participating in the Tom Brown initiative are trained, equipped and linked to primary healthcare centres, enabling them to earn sustainable incomes while supporting nutrition efforts at the grassroots.

    Governor Namadi appreciated the Bauchi State Government for considering Jigawa worthy of the study visit and commended health workers, technical teams and community volunteers for their continued dedication to improving healthcare delivery across communities.

  • SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

    LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) has commenced a pre‑election goodwill assessment mission in the Republic of Zambia, engaging stakeholders ahead of the country’s General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.

    The mission is led by Ambassador Joseph Nourrice, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Seychelles, and Dr Leonard Sesa, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Botswana. They are supported by officers from the SADC Secretariat.

    According to the Council, the team is holding consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, political parties, civil society, and individual experts on elections and democracy.

    The SEAC mission is being conducted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which require the Council to undertake pre‑election assessments in member states preparing for national polls. These missions are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to democratic standards across the region.

    The Council emphasised that the goodwill mission is not only about observing preparations but also about encouraging dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and democratic elections.

    By engaging Zambia’s political actors and institutions, SEAC aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and reaffirm SADC’s commitment to supporting member states in upholding democratic values.