New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Kemi Badenoch hails Conservative comeback as Labour suffers major losses in local elections

    Kemi Badenoch hails Conservative comeback as Labour suffers major losses in local elections

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — The Leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has said the Conservatives are returning to mainstream political leadership in Britain following early results from the 2026 UK local elections, which show the Labour Party losing at least 254 council seats across England.

    Badenoch said voters across several key areas were signalling renewed confidence in the Conservatives.

    “From Westminster to Wandsworth, Harlow to Bexley, Fareham to Broxbourne, people can see the Conservative Party is renewed. There is much more to do, but we have the plan and team to get Britain working again,” she said.

    Earlier, Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the scale of Labour’s losses, describing the outcome as “tough results for Labour” and conceding that the party had lost “brilliant representatives who stood up for their communities.”

    The opposition Labour Party, led by Starmer, suffered its worst performance in several key regions, with at least 254 council seats lost across England, according to early confirmed results.

    The defeats were particularly pronounced in northern and working-class strongholds, including parts of Greater Manchester and Hartlepool, long considered core Labour territory.

    The election also saw significant gains by Reform UK, while the Green Party and Liberal Democrats recorded modest advances, further weakening Britain’s traditional two-party dominance.

    Political analysts say voter dissatisfaction over the economy, public services, and the perceived slow pace of reforms contributed to Labour’s losses.

    Starmer admitted public frustration, saying, “People are still frustrated. Their lives aren’t changing fast enough. We haven’t offered enough hope or optimism for the future,” reflecting growing pressure on the party’s leadership following the results.

  • Labour’s local election huge losses signal deeper political shifts in the UK

    Labour’s local election huge losses signal deeper political shifts in the UK

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Prime Minister Keir Starmer has openly acknowledged the scale of Labour’s losses in the 2026 local elections, describing the outcome as “tough results for Labour” and conceding that the party has lost “brilliant representatives who stood up for their communities.” His remarks underscore the gravity of the setback and the mounting challenges facing Labour’s leadership.

    Labour lost at least 254 council seats across England, according to early confirmed results, with Reform UK making significant inroads into traditional Labour strongholds. The Greens and Liberal Democrats also registered gains, signaling a broader erosion of Britain’s two-party dominance. Particularly striking were Labour’s defeats in northern and working-class councils, including parts of Greater Manchester and Hartlepool, areas long considered central to the party’s base.

    Analysts point to voter dissatisfaction with the economy, public services, and the perceived slow pace of reforms as key drivers of the electoral backlash. Starmer himself admitted that “people are still frustrated. Their lives aren’t changing fast enough. We haven’t offered enough hope or optimism for the future.” His candid assessment reflects both the scale of discontent and the urgency of recalibrating Labour’s message.

    Despite the losses, Starmer, in a statement on Friday, insisted that his determination remains intact. “I was elected to change this country. These results do not weaken my determination — they strengthen it,” he declared, framing the setback as a catalyst for renewed resolve rather than retreat.

    The outcome highlights two critical dynamics: the rise of smaller parties reshaping local governance, and the vulnerability of Labour in constituencies once considered secure. Reform UK’s gains, in particular, suggest a shifting political map that could complicate Labour’s national strategy ahead of future contests.

    For Labour, the challenge now lies in restoring confidence among disillusioned voters, articulating a clearer vision of economic and social renewal, and countering the momentum of insurgent parties. The 2026 local elections may thus prove less a temporary setback than a warning sign of deeper structural changes in British politics.

  • Obidient Movement rejects ‘parallel structure,’ reaffirms loyalty to Peter Obi

    Obidient Movement rejects ‘parallel structure,’ reaffirms loyalty to Peter Obi

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Obidient Movement has rejected what it described as unauthorised parallel structures within the political movement supporting the aspirations of Peter Obi, following the announcement by a group led by Barry Avotu Johnson claiming to have dissolved the movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The group also reportedly announced its dissociation from Obi.

    In a statement signed by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, the movement said it was aware of the activities and public announcements by individuals and groups allegedly operating under names and structures designed to create confusion around the identity, leadership and direction of the movement.

    The statement maintained that the Obidient Movement recognises no parallel structure, faction or alternative leadership outside its established and recognised leadership framework aligned with Obi.

    It advised the public, media organisations, supporters across Nigeria and in the diaspora, as well as other stakeholders, that any group operating under derivative or deceptively similar identities does not represent the Obidient Movement, its values or its leadership.

    “The Obidient Movement remains a people-driven movement founded on integrity, accountability, justice and the collective aspiration for a New Nigeria.

    “Attempts to create confusion, misrepresent the movement’s identity, or exploit its growing influence for ulterior interests will not distract us from our mission and ongoing engagement with Nigerians across all levels,” the statement said.

    The movement further urged its supporters and members of the public to remain focused and united, while relying only on communications issued through officially recognised leadership and communication channels.

    The development follows an announcement on Thursday by a group led by Avotu Johnson, which claimed to be the original founders and leaders of the Obidient Movement.

    The group announced what it described as the dissolution of the movement ahead of the 2027 elections and declared that it had not adopted any presidential candidate for the polls.

    Avotu Johnson said the decision was taken in the interest of “order and justice,” alleging that the original vision and founding ideals of the movement had been distorted by individuals who later assumed control of its structure after the 2023 general elections.

  • Dickson cautions Edo Assembly members joining NDC against ‘transactional politics’

    Dickson cautions Edo Assembly members joining NDC against ‘transactional politics’

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, on Thursday warned politicians against “transactional politics” as serving lawmakers from Edo State formally joined the party in Abuja.

    The event, attended by lawmakers, political stakeholders and delegates from several states, featured the formal reception of the Minority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Charity Aiguobarueghian, and Natasha Osawaru-Idibia into the emerging political movement.

    Speaking at the gathering, Dickson said the NDC was not established as a platform for short-term political interests, but as a movement rooted in ideology, discipline and long-term nation-building.

    “You are not joiners of this party. You are co-founders and co-builders.

    “This is not a platform for transactional politics. It is a platform for ideological commitment and nation-building,” he said.

    Dickson urged the new members to see themselves as part of a long-term political project, stressing that strong grassroots structures remain critical to the survival and success of any political movement.

    According to him, popularity without organisation cannot sustain electoral victories.

    “A political party is like a horse. No matter how skilled the rider is, if the horse is weak or untrained, it cannot win a race,” he said.

    He added that political parties are “living institutions” that must be constantly nurtured to remain relevant and viable.

    A highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of party membership cards to Aiguobarueghian and Osawaru-Idibia.

    Speaking after his reception, Aiguobarueghian said his decision to join the NDC followed what he described as a period of ideological reflection amid uncertainty within his former political platform.

    “At some point, I began to ask myself whether what we believed in was still possible. I was mocked and it almost felt like there was no clear direction,” he said.

    He maintained that his decision was not driven by personal ambition, but by a desire to serve within a more stable political structure.

    “I am happy to be received in a house where my values do not have to be diluted, where I can serve without suppressing my intellectual capacity,” he added.

    Osawaru-Idibia described the NDC as a movement capable of repositioning Nigeria’s political landscape.

    “Politics has not been easy, but we thank God for standing steadfast.

    “I have a leader whose values are his compass. He keeps reminding me of the youth and where this country is supposed to go,” she said.

    She also reaffirmed her commitment to the party despite prevailing political challenges.

    “We may fall, we will stand. As God is with us, so it will be. The NDC will take over to lead Nigeria to greener pastures,” she added.

    A former Deputy Governor of Gombe State, John Yoriyo, described the development as part of a broader political realignment within Nigeria’s opposition space.

    “This is a turning point for Nigeria. We are witnessing the beginning of a political movement that seeks to redefine how leadership is built and sustained,” he said.

    Yoriyo added that the movement aims to create opportunities for citizens irrespective of background while promoting generational renewal in leadership.

  • Shettima submits Tinubu’s APC Nomination Forms for 2027 re-election bid

    Shettima submits Tinubu’s APC Nomination Forms for 2027 re-election bid

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday formally submitted the nomination and expression of interest forms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to national officers of the All Progressives Congress (APC), signalling the President’s intention to seek the party’s ticket for the 2027 presidential election.

    Speaking during the submission ceremony at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Shettima called on party members, governors, National Assembly lawmakers, and other stakeholders to rally behind Tinubu’s second-term bid.

    The Vice President said the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda had demonstrated the capacity to reposition Nigeria and address longstanding economic and social challenges confronting the country.

    “We are here, first, as Nigerians, and secondly as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to submit this very priceless nomination form of our dear President and leader, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he seeks to lead us for another four-year term,” Shettima said.

    He maintained that President Tinubu had shown leadership and commitment towards pulling Nigeria out of economic difficulties and laying the foundation for long-term national development.

    The event attracted party faithful, APC officials, elected representatives, and political supporters who gathered in solidarity with the President ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

    Tinubu’s formal entry into the race is expected to intensify political activities across party lines as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.

  • Nollywood actor Zubby Michael joins Obidient Movement

    Nollywood actor Zubby Michael joins Obidient Movement

    LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — Popular Nollywood actor Zubby Michael has been formally welcomed into the Obidient Movement, the political support group aligned with the aspirations of former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

    The announcement was contained in a statement issued by Dr Yunusa Tanko, Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide.

    According to Tanko, the actor, whose real name is Azubuike Michael Egwu, joined the movement on April 6, 2026.

    “Yesterday we received in honour Hon. Azubuike Michael Egwu (Zubby Michael) into the Obidient Movement,” part of the statement read.

    Tanko disclosed that the actor attended the event alongside the Director-General of the Obi Kwankwaso Community Movement, Hon. Engr. Francis Nnoli, and Mr Ugochukwu P. Ojinigbo.

    “We keep moving. No distractions, no retreat, and no surrender to centrifugal forces. A New Nigeria is Possible,” the statement added.

    The development comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with entertainers and public figures increasingly taking public positions on national politics.

    Another Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie, son of veteran actor Pete Edochie, is widely known as a supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Political observers expect more actors, musicians, and entertainers with large followings to openly align with political parties and presidential hopefuls as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify.

  • Group claims dissolution of #Obidient Movement, cuts ties with Peter Obi ahead of 2027 elections

    Group claims dissolution of #Obidient Movement, cuts ties with Peter Obi ahead of 2027 elections

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — A group led by Dr Barry Avotu Johnson on Thursday announced the purported dissolution of the #Obidient Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections and dissociated itself from former presidential candidate Peter Obi.

    The group, which claims to be the original founders and leaders of the movement, said the decision was taken in the interest of “order and justice,” while insisting it has not adopted any presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

    Avotu Johnson, who described himself as the International Coordinator of the movement, said the restructuring became necessary after the 2023 general elections, alleging that the original vision and founding ideals of the group had been distorted by those who later assumed control of its structure.

    He also announced the removal of Dr Yunusa Tanko, who currently serves as Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide.

    According to him, the repositioning was aimed at restoring the movement’s founding principles and correcting what he described as a deviation from its original mission.

    Meanwhile, Peter Obi’s recent political movement away from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has continued to generate political reactions and uncertainties within opposition circles ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Obi had explained that his decision was not driven by anger, ambition, or convenience, but followed deep reflection on Nigeria’s current challenges.

    “It came after deep reflection on the present condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from the dangerous path it is currently heading,” he said.

    He emphasized that politics must remain focused on the people rather than individuals or personal gain, citing worsening economic hardship and declining living conditions across the country.

    Obi also reiterated that his exit from previous political platforms was influenced by what he described as “severe, orchestrated litigation and internal crises” that hindered effective political participation.

    As of the time of filing this report, neither Peter Obi nor Dr Yunusa Tanko had issued an official response to the announced purported dissolution of the #Obidient Movement.

  • Senate Deputy President Barau submits APC nomination forms, seeks return to senate

    Senate Deputy President Barau submits APC nomination forms, seeks return to senate

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CFR, has formally submitted his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to the All Progressives Congress as he prepares to seek re-election to the Senate.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, Senator Barau confirmed the submission, noting that the exercise took place earlier in Abuja.

    “Earlier today in Abuja, I officially submitted my completed Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to the officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the largest political party in Africa,” he said.

    The senator expressed gratitude to his constituents in the Kano North Senatorial District, appreciating their continued support, confidence, and solidarity over the years.

    “Insha Allah, we will continue to work tirelessly to address the challenges confronting our people and to advance programmes and initiatives that improve their lives,” he stated.

    Senator Barau reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare, progress, and development of constituents across the 13 Local Government Areas of the Kano North Senatorial District, describing their well-being as his top priority.

    He added that his bid for another term in the legislature is driven by a desire to deepen representation and deliver more developmental projects to the district.

    “Their welfare remains my highest priority as I seek to represent them for another four years in the legislature. This is the essence of our service and the true purpose of politics,” the statement concluded.

  • ‘Nigerians cannot eat GDP,’ ADC slams FG over economic claims

    ‘Nigerians cannot eat GDP,’ ADC slams FG over economic claims

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Federal Government’s celebration of Nigeria’s reported GDP growth, describing it as disconnected from the economic realities facing citizens.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said economic growth figures are meaningless if they do not translate into improved living conditions.

    “People do not eat GDP,” the ADC said, stressing that growth must reflect in lower food prices, job creation, stronger purchasing power, and better livelihoods for ordinary Nigerians.

    The party argued that despite official claims of economic progress, millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with inflation, unemployment, and rising business costs.

    According to the statement, the realities faced by citizens in markets, farms, and households contradict government narratives of recovery, with food prices, transportation costs, and energy expenses placing increasing pressure on families and businesses.

    The ADC warned that celebrating economic statistics without addressing widespread hardship amounts to “economic abstraction disconnected from human reality.”

    It further noted that small businesses are shutting down under the weight of inflation and weak consumer demand, while salaries have lost value and more Nigerians are slipping into poverty.

    The party urged the government to shift focus from “celebrating figures” to implementing policies that deliver measurable improvements in living standards.

    It added that the true test of economic policy lies in whether citizens can live better lives, insisting that growth must be reflected in affordable food, stable electricity, decent jobs, and reduced cost of doing business.

    The ADC maintained that until economic gains are felt at the household level, the government has no basis to declare success in managing the economy.

  • Shettima: Tinubu’s economic reforms strengthening states, driving growth

    Shettima: Tinubu’s economic reforms strengthening states, driving growth

    LAFIA, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice President Kashim Shettima has said the economic restructuring undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is rebuilding the foundations of Nigeria’s economy and empowering states for sustainable growth.

    Shettima made the remarks on Wednesday at the Nasarawa Investment Summit 2026 in Lafia, noting that the reforms are designed to reduce subnational dependence on the federal government through fiscal adjustments and increased allocations.

    According to him, the restructuring is already yielding outcomes in key areas, including improved energy reliability, fiscal balance, tax reforms, and the development of a unified digital gateway for investment.

    He said the transformation of subnational economies into stronger and more viable entities underscores the administration’s decision to place states at the centre of its reform agenda.

    “At the national level, we are rebuilding the pillars every state depends on: energy reliability, fiscal balance, tax reform, and a single digital gateway for investment,” the Vice President said.

    He added that ongoing power sector reforms are creating new opportunities for state participation, positioning them to attract investment and drive economic development.