Category: Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Social Democratic Party National Chairman, Sadiq Gombe, on Monday insisted that the National Executive Committee (NEC) decision expelling former chairman, Shehu Gabam, remains valid and binding.

Gombe stated this after a closed-door meeting between party leaders and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja. The meeting, convened by INEC, formed part of efforts to resolve the lingering leadership crisis within the SDP ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

According to Gombe, the party attended the engagement out of respect for INEC and in response to its invitation for an alternative dispute resolution process. He disclosed that 11 members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), alongside other stakeholders, participated in the meeting.

Gombe said the NEC had earlier ratified the current NWC leadership and approved the suspension and eventual expulsion of Gabam.

He added that the NEC meeting was duly communicated to INEC and monitored by its officials, while certified true copies of the proceedings were also submitted to the electoral body.

“We are here because of the respect we have for INEC and to honour its invitation for alternative dispute resolution, but we made it categorically clear that the SDP has the constitutional authority to manage its internal affairs,” he said.

Gombe explained that the disciplinary action against Gabam followed allegations bordering on corruption, mismanagement, and breach of the party’s constitution as well as the Electoral Act.

Citing Article 19(C) of the party’s constitution, he argued that any disciplined member has five working days to appeal through internal party mechanisms.

According to him, Gabam neither exhausted the internal appeal process nor approached a competent court within the stipulated period.

“From the day the NEC ratified his expulsion, he ceased to be a member of the party. He did not exhaust the internal mechanisms provided by the constitution,” Gombe stated.

He also dismissed claims that party leadership recognition could be determined through the INEC portal, insisting that political parties retain constitutional powers over their internal administration and leadership affairs.

Gombe further clarified that the matter before the Supreme Court originated from a suit filed by an SDP governorship aspirant in Ekiti State and had no connection with the party’s national leadership structure.

He maintained that no court order could override resolutions passed by the NEC on internal party administration.

“The NEC is the administrative organ responsible for the day-to-day running of the party, and its decisions remain binding,” he said.

Gombe also expressed surprise over claims that some correspondences relating to suspensions and expulsions were not received by INEC.

“We have duly acknowledged copies of all correspondence submitted to INEC, and these documents were again presented during the meeting,” he added.

The SDP chairman said the party had already conducted its national convention and presidential primary ahead of the 2027 elections in compliance with the Electoral Act and the Constitution.

He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to credible democratic processes and urged INEC to remain impartial as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.

The crisis within the SDP escalated after allegations of financial mismanagement and constitutional breaches were levelled against Gabam, leading to his suspension and eventual expulsion by a faction of the NEC.

However, supporters of the former chairman have continued to challenge the process, insisting that due process was not followed.

The leadership dispute has also triggered legal battles and conflicting claims over the party’s authentic leadership recognition by INEC.

ASABA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former Delta State governor Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for Delta North, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Okowa secured 113,309 votes to defeat incumbent senator Ned Nwoko, who polled 2,612 votes, and Dr. Maryam Ali, who garnered 40 votes, in a peaceful exercise conducted across the district’s nine local government areas.

Announcing the results, APC Returning Officer, Prof. Johnbull Tonukari, said Okowa dominated the contest from the onset, maintaining strong leads in nearly all councils. He noted that Okowa recorded overwhelming victories in Ndokwa East (9,436 votes), Ika South (9,763 votes), Oshimili North (13,110 votes), and Ukwuani (12,167 votes), among others.

Tonukari described Okowa’s performance in Nwoko’s local government area as a major upset, where the former governor polled 5,480 votes against Nwoko’s 1,343 votes. He added that Okowa also won convincingly in Aniocha South (10,353 votes), Oshimili South (11,616 votes), Ika North East (26,185 votes), and Ndokwa West (15,199 votes).

Following the announcement, APC National Working Committee leader in Delta, Mr. Eugene Odo, declared Okowa winner of the primary, describing the process as peaceful, transparent, and credible.

“Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa is hereby declared winner, having scored the highest lawful votes cast in this peaceful and credible primary election,” Odo said.

Party officials and security personnel were commended for ensuring smooth coordination throughout the exercise.

In his acceptance statement, Okowa thanked party members and supporters across the Delta North senatorial district for their overwhelming show of love, support, and massive turnout, describing it as deeply humbling and inspiring.

“I do not take this support for granted, and I remain grateful to God for the grace to continue relating closely with our people. As I prepare for a return to the Senate, I remain committed to offering wise, experienced, and people-centred representation that will strengthen the voice of Delta North at the national level,” he said.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has tasked Chief Executive Officers, Chairmen and members of Governing Boards of federal parastatals, agencies and commissions to uphold good governance, accountability, integrity and efficient service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Akume issued the charge on Monday in Abuja during an induction programme for Chief Executive Officers, Board Chairmen and Governing Board Members of federal agencies and commissions.

He was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana.

According to a statement signed by Chris Ugwuegbulam, Head of Information and Public Relations, the SGF said the programme was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of government policies, processes and operational procedures while strengthening their capacity to effectively deliver on their mandates.

He stressed that the public service remains the central machinery for policy implementation and service delivery in Nigeria, noting that parastatals and agencies exist to execute specific functions within the framework of national priorities.

Akume expressed concern over recurring conflicts and misunderstandings between governing boards and chief executive officers, warning that such tensions have negatively impacted productivity and institutional harmony in several agencies.

He clarified that governing boards are responsible for policy direction and strategic oversight, while chief executive officers handle day-to-day administration and management of their institutions.

The SGF cautioned board members against interference in daily operations, urging them to remain within their statutory mandates and focus on oversight responsibilities.

He advised board chairmen and members to familiarise themselves with the enabling laws and operational guidelines governing their respective institutions.

Akume further outlined key responsibilities of governing boards to include safeguarding the long-term interests of the Federal Government, promoting sustainable and cost-effective practices, strengthening internal control and risk management systems, monitoring management performance, and supporting strategic development initiatives.

He also disclosed that the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) had been directed to conduct impact assessments on agencies whose board members and chief executives participate in the induction programme.

According to him, the exercise will help government assess compliance with existing rules and measure levels of institutional harmony and effectiveness.

The SGF urged all appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them through professionalism, dedication, and commitment to transparency, equity and accountability.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to strengthening public institutions and improving governance structures for more efficient service delivery to Nigerians.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has REAFFIRMED the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to protecting religious freedom and constitutional rights across the country.

The minister stated this after a meeting with the United Kingdom’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, David Smith, and the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery.

According to Idris, Nigeria remains committed to preserving its identity as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation.

“We are very proudly a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation, and will always cherish and nurture this diversity that strengthens us,” the minister stated.

He added that Nigeria deeply values the support and solidarity of the United Kingdom and would continue strengthening collaboration with both local and international stakeholders in combating religious extremism and violence.

The meeting comes amid growing international attention over alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria following comments made by United States President Donald Trump.

Trump had on Saturday reposted a video message by Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), on his Truth Social platform. The US President captioned the repost: “NIGERIA PASTOR SPEAKS OUT — THE WORLD NEEDS TO LISTEN.”

In the emotional video, Reverend Dachomo appealed to the international community and the United States government over what he described as killings of Christians in Nigeria.

“United Nations, I know you are watching me. American Senate, you are watching what I am doing, what I am saying here? Special Adviser, tell Trump now! Tell Trump to save our lives in Nigeria. They are killing Christians, massacring Christians in Nigeria,” the cleric said in the video.

KANO, Nigeria (NPA) — A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed delight at the massive turnout of supporters in Kano for a solidarity walk to his residence. The leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement urged them to channel their enthusiasm into registering to vote ahead of the upcoming elections.

In a related development, the former Kano State Governor, speaking over the weekend on Trust TV News, addressed recent controversies, particularly claims that Peter Obi harbours anti-North sentiments. He recounted his intervention in the Imo State ID card incident, stressing that he personally resolved the matter peacefully.

“There is no way people will say Northerners were being targeted without mentioning that I stepped in to resolve the matter. All those claims against Obi are false and deliberate lies,” he said.

Reacting to the turnout of the great crowd of supporters, Dr Yunusa Tanko, the Worldwide Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, praised the solidarity demonstrated by the Kwankwasiyya Movement in Kano.

He described the peaceful mobilisation as inspiring for young Nigerians, urging them to obtain their PVCs and participate actively in shaping the nation’s future.

“We commend the supporters for their discipline and commitment. Nigeria will be OK,” Tanko added.

ENUGU, Nigeria (NPA) — Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to long-term investments across critical sectors of Enugu State, stressing that the present generation must lay the foundation for future prosperity.

Governor Mbah made the remarks in a statement issued on Monday, accompanied by a video broadcast, where he emphasised the need for sustained development policies capable of creating greater opportunities for future generations.

“My generation has a responsibility to work tirelessly today so that the next generation can inherit greater opportunities, meaningful work, and a better quality of life,” the governor stated.

The statement was accompanied by a video showcasing recently acquired agricultural equipment by the Enugu State Government, including tractors and other mechanised farming tools and inputs, distributed to farmers across the state.

Mbah said his administration remained committed to investing in mechanised agriculture, empowering farmers with modern technology, and supporting local tractor assembly through strategic partnerships.

According to him, one of such partnerships involves NORTRA, which is currently producing and assembling agricultural equipment in the state in collaboration with the Enugu State Government.

“These are not just projects; they are long-term investments in productivity, food security, jobs, and economic growth,” he said.

The governor added that his administration was building a future where young people in the state could thrive in a modern economy driven by innovation, technology, and industry.

The latest remarks come days after several youth and student organisations across the state publicly endorsed Mbah for a second term in office. The groups, including NANS, NAUS, NAPS, NFSAN, NACESS, NUNS, FEWS, FANS, and NSLC, reportedly contributed a combined ₦100 million toward his second-term nomination.

Responding to the gesture, Governor Mbah described the endorsement as a reflection of the confidence young people have in his administration and its governance direction.

“To the young people of our state, I hear you, I value you, and I remain committed to creating an Enugu where your ambitions can truly thrive. Tomorrow is here,” the governor stated.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has CAUTIONED the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against what he described as excessive borrowing for consumption rather than productive investment.

Obi issued the warning in a statement released on Monday titled, “Debt Servicing, Borrowing, and Nigeria’s Fiscal Priorities.”

According to him, President Tinubu recently disclosed during a foreign tour that Nigeria would spend approximately $11.6 billion on debt servicing — a figure Obi said should alarm anyone concerned about the country’s economic future and long-term development.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate stated that borrowing in itself was not a problem when guided by prudence and directed toward productive sectors capable of generating sustainable economic returns.

He cited countries such as Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Indonesia as examples of nations with high debt profiles that nonetheless invest borrowed funds in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and innovation.

According to Obi, such investments create measurable productivity and strengthen repayment capacity, making their debt burdens more manageable despite their size.

“Nigeria’s situation, however, is markedly different,” Obi said, arguing that a significant portion of the country’s borrowing had been channelled into consumption with little visible or sustainable developmental impact.

The former Anambra State governor further alleged that a large portion of the debt currently being serviced was accumulated under the Tinubu administration, while fresh borrowing continued at what he described as an aggressive pace.

Obi listed recent external borrowing arrangements to include about $5 billion from First Abu Dhabi Bank in the United Arab Emirates, $1 billion from UK Export Finance through Citibank London, a proposed $1.25 billion World Bank facility, and an additional $516 million arranged through Deutsche Bank.

He said the combined external loan commitments amounted to approximately $7.8 billion, excluding ongoing domestic borrowing through monthly bond issuances.

The opposition figure also expressed concern over what he described as a growing imbalance in Nigeria’s fiscal priorities.

According to him, the proposed 2026 national budget allocated about ₦2.46 trillion to healthcare, ₦2.56 trillion to education, and ₦865 billion to poverty alleviation — a combined total of roughly ₦5.885 trillion.

By comparison, Obi noted that projected debt servicing costs of about $11.6 billion, estimated at between ₦17 trillion and ₦18 trillion depending on exchange rates, would be nearly three times higher than the combined allocation to the three critical sectors.

“This imbalance highlights a troubling fiscal reality in which debt obligations increasingly crowd out investment in human capital and poverty reduction,” he stated.

Obi, who insisted he is pushing for a change in the polity under his “A New Nigeria is Possible” mantra, also warned that even the limited allocations made to social sectors could suffer from poor implementation and possible misappropriation.

He maintained that the core issue was not borrowing itself, but whether borrowed funds were being transformed into measurable productivity, inclusive growth, and improved living standards for Nigerians.

“Without this, debt servicing shifts from being a temporary fiscal obligation to a long-term structural burden that constrains development and deepens economic vulnerability,” Obi added.