Category: Politics

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.

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.

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.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The infighting within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) intensified after a televised interview by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, where he addressed internal party issues. In response, the PDP’s Interim National Working Committee, through its National Publicity Secretary Comrade Ini Ememobong, issued a strongly worded statement titled “IGNORE WIKE’S POLITICAL SWAN SONG.”

The party accused Wike of indulging in “political rascality, moral emptiness, crass opportunism, and post‑loss trauma,” describing his media session as “full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” The PDP apologized to Nigerians for ever giving Wike a platform, saying his conduct had become “a national and international disgrace.”

It urged those defamed to seek legal redress, stressing that no one should be above the law. The statement dismissed Wike’s ambitions, noting that the party constitution does not recognize the office of National Leader, and even if it did, his conduct would disqualify him.

The PDP further criticized Wike’s frustration over the ongoing sale of forms ahead of primaries and the national convention, which it said undermines his promise to “hold down” the party. It dismissed his threats against banks as “delusional,” insisting the party’s accounts are operational.

On court judgments, the party challenged Wike to explain the reliefs sought in dismissed cross‑appeals by his allies. Concluding, the PDP assured Nigerians that “no amount of threats will frighten the truth,” emphasizing that while lies may spread quickly, they cannot diminish the power of truth when revealed.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has approved a waiver of screening requirements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary elections.

The decision was reached at the NWC’s 188th meeting held on May 6, 2026, where the committee resolved to deem the President as duly screened in accordance with the party’s constitution.

According to the APC, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the waiver was granted pursuant to its constitutional powers under Article 13.4 (xiii) and (xiv), which empower the NWC to organise and supervise primaries and grant waivers in special circumstances in the interest of the party.

The committee noted that Tinubu has received widespread endorsements and votes of confidence from key party stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), members of the National Assembly, and other organs of the party, particularly during the APC National Summit held on May 22, 2025, and subsequent statutory meetings.

It further stated that, as the incumbent President and leader of the party, Tinubu had already undergone screening ahead of the 2022 presidential primaries, making a fresh appearance before a screening committee unnecessary.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has announced her resignation from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and her decision to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) under the leadership of HE Peter Obi. In a public statement accompanied by a political poster today, she explained that her move reflects a renewed commitment to Nigeria’s progress and democratic values.

The activist and advocate for good governance and a prominent campaigner for the release of the Chibok Girls, revealed that she is not only joining the NDC as a member but also as a candidate for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senatorial seat.

She expressed gratitude for her time and service with the ADC, while appreciating the support she has received.

Her declaration was accompanied by hashtags such as #NewBeginnings, #NDC, #PeterObi2027, #FCTSenate, #BetterAbuja, #NewNigeria, and #ServiceFirst, signaling her campaign’s focus on service and reform.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has held talks with the United States Charge d’Affaires, David Heffern, focusing on security cooperation and bilateral relations.

According to a statement by the minister, the meeting was “constructive” and centred on key issues including security and defence, border and migration challenges, counter-terrorism initiatives, intelligence sharing, visa concerns, and other areas of mutual interest.

Both sides also discussed ongoing collaboration under the Joint Working Group, as well as measures to promote regional stability and address Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States.

Ojukwu said Nigeria would continue engagements with U.S. authorities to review the designation and strengthen cooperation aimed at reversing it, while deepening longstanding bilateral ties between both countries.

The CPC designation has remained a key issue in Nigeria–U.S. relations, particularly amid concerns raised in Washington over religious violence and security challenges in parts of the country.

In February, a U.S. congressional committee set up under President Donald Trump submitted recommendations to the White House following an investigation into alleged violence against Christian communities in Nigeria.

The report, led by Congressman Riley Moore and supported by House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, endorsed Nigeria’s redesignation as a CPC, citing what it described as persistent attacks and insecurity.

Among its recommendations were the establishment of a bilateral security agreement, expanded humanitarian assistance, deployment of security forces to vulnerable regions, disarmament of armed groups, and enhanced counter-terrorism cooperation between both countries.

The committee also proposed visa restrictions for perpetrators of violence, legal reforms, and economic measures aimed at addressing underlying drivers of insecurity, including illicit activities and regional instability.

Despite these concerns, Nigerian authorities have maintained that ongoing reforms and security efforts are aimed at addressing the challenges and strengthening national stability.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has pledged to formally present the Women’s Charter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to deepen women’s inclusion and economic empowerment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mrs Tinubu made the pledge at the National Women Mega Empowerment and Rally themed “The Power of 10 Million: One Voice, One Movement, One Choice,” organised by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs on Tuesday in Abuja.

She said the Women’s Charter represents the collective voice, aspirations, and expectations of Nigerian women, particularly in the areas of political inclusion and economic empowerment.

The First Lady assured participants that the document would be delivered to the President, describing it as a commitment to ensuring that women’s contributions are fully reflected in national development.

She noted that women constitute more than half of Nigeria’s population and play a critical role in nation-building, adding that the administration remains committed to expanding their participation in governance.

“This first term of Mr President has been a period of laying a solid foundation through bold and necessary reforms that will usher in lasting prosperity for our dear nation. Though the process has demanded sacrifice, the seed has been planted, and I am confident that Nigerians will continue to reap the fruits of these reforms in the days and years ahead,” she said.

Mrs Tinubu reiterated the administration’s commitment under the Renewed Hope Agenda to expand women’s inclusion in governance and decision-making processes.

Earlier, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, described the Women’s Charter as a “social contract and policy compass” outlining demands for greater political representation, improved access to financing, expanded economic opportunities, and stronger social protection systems.

She said the “Power of 10 Million Women” initiative is aimed at mobilising women as a unified force to influence governance and national development.

“Let me assure you that Nigerian women recognise this support and will deliver the mandate. We are organised, mobilised, and ready to shape the future of our nation with discipline, unity and purpose,” she said.

The Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the rally marked a shift from informal participation to structured political and economic influence for women, noting that coordinated mobilisation could significantly shape governance outcomes.

“Ten million women who are informed, aligned and intentional will not only participate in development, they will influence its direction,” she said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, urged women to take ownership of national reforms, stressing that collective action strengthens their voice.

The President of the Network of Women with Disabilities, Lois Auta, called for stronger inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in political participation and empowerment programmes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that female heads of federal agencies, grassroots leaders, entrepreneurs, and professional groups also pledged support for expanded women’s representation.

The event featured the rollout of empowerment programmes targeting women through grants, microcredit schemes, skills acquisition, agricultural support, and market access initiatives.

The rally ended with a call for unity among women under the theme “One Voice, One Movement, One Choice,” ahead of the 2027 general elections.