Category: Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced vacancies for ad-hoc staff positions in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election. The recruitment drive, conducted through the INEC Portal for the Engagement of Election Staff (INECPRES), is open to eligible applicants residing in Ekiti State.

According to INEC, the positions available include Supervisory Presiding Officers (SPOs), Presiding Officers (POs), Assistant Presiding Officers (APOs), Registration Area Technical Support Staff (RATECHSS), and RAC Managers.

Eligibility Criteria:

• SPOs: Federal Public/Civil Service and MDA staff on Grade Level 10–14.
• POs/APOs: INEC staff (GL 07–14), serving NYSC members, former corps members (not later than 4 years post-service), permanent staff of MDAs with OND or GL 07–10, and students of federal tertiary institutions.
• RAC Managers: Heads of schools or designated staff of institutions hosting RACs or Super RACs.
• RATECHSS: Suitable INEC ICT staff at state and LGA levels not engaged in other duties.

INEC emphasized that applicants must not be members of political parties or express support for any candidate.

Application Timeline

The online portal will open on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 8:00 AM and close on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 12 Midnight. Applications can be submitted via Android devices or web browsers.

Help Desk Contacts

Applicants can reach INEC help desks across Ekiti State for assistance:

• Ado-Ekiti: 09074678918
• Ijero: 07036153700
• Oye: 08113547196
• Ikole: 08030779585
• Abdulwahab: 08036472801
• Omuo: 08028753188
• Mike: 08064736071

INEC described the recruitment as a critical step toward ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in the Ekiti State gubernatorial election scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026, according to the timetable released by the commission.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Omoyele Sowore, 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has explained why he declined to attend the Opposition Summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, which ended with the adoption of the Ibadan Declaration.

Sowore said his refusal was based on the conviction that “Nigerians deserve a genuine alternative, not recycled failure.” He argued that those who presided over years of stagnation, corruption, and systemic decay cannot suddenly reinvent themselves as champions of progress. “Not all Nigerians are suffering from amnesia,” he added.

The AAC leader insisted that his revolutionary party will not be part of what he described as a charade designed to recycle failed political actors under the guise of opposition. Instead, he pledged that AAC remains committed to presenting a formidable, people-driven alternative rooted in integrity, accountability, and genuine transformation.

Sowore clarified that AAC will mobilize Nigerians nationwide to rally behind a credible vision that rejects both the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and what he called their “opportunistic counterparts” in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and others.

“Nigeria does not need a rearrangement of the same broken pieces, it needs a complete break from the past,” he concluded.

IBADAN, Nigeria (NPA) — The Opposition Summit held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, April 25, 2026, ended with the adoption of the Ibadan Declaration, a communiqué issued after extensive deliberations by leaders of Nigeria’s opposition political parties.

Signed by the chairmen of participating parties, the communiqué outlined resolutions aimed at countering what they described as the “stranglehold of the oppressive and anti-democratic All Progressives Congress (APC)” and emphasized the need for urgent collective action to rescue Nigeria and its over 200 million citizens.

Delivering the welcome address at the Banquet Hall of the Oyo State Government House, Governor Seyi Makinde underscored the dangers of weakening opposition in Nigeria’s democracy.

“Across Nigeria today, we are witnessing a level of political concentration that should concern all of us,” he said, warning that democracy is not destroyed overnight but weakened step by step until citizens begin to feel it no longer works for them.

He stressed that democracy is defined not by the success of one party but by the existence of real alternatives and the confidence that citizens’ choices matter. “Because democracy without opposition is not democracy, it is a slow drift toward a one-party state. And Nigeria must not make that drift,” Makinde declared.

The governor reminded participants of Ibadan’s historic role in shaping Nigeria’s political future, noting that the summit was not a gang-up against one man or about individual ambitions, but about the collective ambition of Nigerians to preserve democracy. “No matter how strong any party becomes, the presence of credible opposition is not a threat to democracy, it is what sustains democracy,” he added.

Key Resolutions of the Ibadan Declaration

1. Opposition parties will resist all attempts by the APC to impose a one-party state and will fight to preserve multi-party democracy.
2. Despite alleged manoeuvres by the ruling party to impose President Bola Tinubu as the sole candidate in 2027, opposition parties pledged to field candidates in the presidential and other elections.
3. Parties agreed to work toward presenting a single presidential candidate in 2027, supported by all opposition groups, to “rescue the nation and her long-suffering masses.”
4. The communiqué demanded the removal of INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, citing bias and loss of public confidence, warning that his continued stay could trigger widespread crisis.
5. The National Assembly was urged to review the Electoral Act 2026 to safeguard the sanctity and integrity of elections.
6. Leading politicians detained or harassed over bailable offences should be released immediately to exercise their fundamental rights.
7. The recent INEC guidelines were described as obstacles deliberately engineered against opposition parties. The summit demanded an extension of the deadline for primaries until the end of July 2026.
8. Nigerians were commended for their resilience and readiness to work with opposition parties to free the nation from “state capture.”
9. The summit expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for hosting the historic event.

SOKOTO, Nigeria (NPA) —The Senator representing Sokoto East Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Primary Healthcare, Development and Disease Control, Ibrahim Lamido, has resigned his membership of the All Progressive Congress (APC).

In a letter dated April 22, 2026, addressed to the Ward Chairman of the APC in Isa South, Isa Local Government, Sokoto State, and titled “Letter of Resignation from the All Progressive Congress (APC)”, the senator formally tendered his resignation from the party with immediate effect.

Lamido noted that the decision was not taken lightly. However, he explained that the ongoing internal party crisis, suspicion, and unfair leadership style within the Sokoto State chapter of the APC had made it increasingly difficult for him to continue his membership in good conscience.

He also cited persistent divisions, lack of cohesion, and unresolved disputes, which he said have significantly hindered the progress and unity that the party once stood for, as part of his decision.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served and contributed to the party during my time as a member. I wish the party well in its efforts to overcome its present challenges and move forward in unity,” he added.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Mr. Peter Obi has expressed concern over what he described as troubling developments in Nigeria’s academic institutions, following the sudden cancellation of his scheduled keynote lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

Obi said the invitation had been extended to him several months ago, with adequate preparations made, but he was informed at the last minute that the event would no longer hold. He noted that universities are regarded as “ivory towers” because they are meant to serve as centres of pure, isolated intellectual thought, warning that it is worrisome when they are pressured to operate outside this norm.

“Today, I was scheduled to be at Obafemi Awolowo University at 9 a.m. to deliver a keynote lecture, before proceeding to Ibadan for the opposition parties’ political summit at noon. Regrettably, I received the news that the event would no longer be held in the University as planned,” Obi stated.

He added that this was not an isolated incident, pointing out that similar cancellations had occurred more than ten times, including at his alma mater, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). He recalled that the inaugural memorial lecture in honour of late Vice Chancellor Prof. Frank Ndili was cancelled by the university authorities on the scheduled date.

“These are not merely personal inconveniences; they raise deeper questions about the kind of environment we are nurturing in our country. Universities are meant to be centres of learning, open dialogue, and the free exchange of ideas. When platforms for constructive engagement are repeatedly constrained, it reflects a worrying shift away from these ideals,” Obi said.

He contrasted the situation with his international engagements, noting that in the past 24 months he had delivered lectures at globally respected institutions including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, and Imperial College. “Those environments continue to demonstrate openness to dialogue, critical thinking, and shared learning — values that should equally define our own institutions,” he added.

Obi, who is aspiring to Nigeria’s presidency under the mantra “A New Nigeria is Possible”, stressed that the country must ask itself what kind of nation it is building if spaces for intellectual engagement are shrinking. “Nigeria must work towards becoming a place where ideas thrive, where knowledge is shared without fear, and where our institutions uphold the principles they were established to protect,” he concluded.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State have unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

The motion for endorsement was moved by Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan and seconded by Alhaji Chiroma Mashio, Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, during the party’s stakeholders’ meeting in Damaturu on Thursday.

Governor Mai Mala Buni, speaking at the event, highlighted the benefits Yobe has derived from federal government projects and programmes under Tinubu’s leadership. “Our alignment with the national party and government since 2015 has attracted advantages that facilitated our reconstruction and recovery programme for the good of the state and its people. I therefore call on the good people of Yobe to once again support the APC and endorse President Tinubu for another term,” he said.

Buni commended stakeholders for demonstrating political maturity and maintaining peace despite differing opinions. He described Yobe as the “home of politics without bitterness,” echoing the philosophy of late political leader Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim.

The governor also expressed gratitude to the people of Yobe for their resilience and support in recovery efforts, and paid tribute to security operatives for their sacrifices in restoring peace to the state. “Some of you paid the supreme price for Yobe State to remain peaceful. Your sacrifice is never in vain,” he said.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday swore in Dr Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Nigeria’s new Minister of Housing and Urban Development, following his clearance by the Senate. Darma, from Katsina State, replaces Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, who recently resigned from the cabinet.

At the brief ceremony held at the State House, President Tinubu congratulated Darma, describing him as a “fitting peg in the right position” and commending his rich professional background. “You have rendered valuable services in all the assignments you have embarked upon. We need competent hands like yours at this challenging time of national development,” Tinubu said. He further urged the new minister to be ready to serve in any capacity as required.

According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy), Darma brings extensive experience as a scholar, administrator, and development expert. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree from the University of Liverpool and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from Atlantic International University, USA. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, followed by a Master’s in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Benin.

A member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the Nigerian Institute of Management, Darma previously served as Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund between 2008 and 2012. He also held key roles in Katsina State, including Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, and Commissioner for Rural and Social Development. In addition, he has contributed to academia as a lecturer at Bayero University, Kano, and is widely published in governance and development.

Before his appointment, Darma was President of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Human Development Centre in Katsina. His swearing-in marks a new phase for Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector, with expectations that his expertise will help drive reforms and strengthen national infrastructure.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Taiwo Oyedele has officially assumed office as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, following a handover from his predecessor, Wale Edun, on April 23, 2026.

In his inaugural remarks, Oyedele expressed appreciation to Edun for his service and contributions, noting that Nigeria is at a critical juncture. He emphasized the need to consolidate recent economic stabilization efforts, deepen ongoing reforms, and ensure that these translate into tangible benefits for citizens.

Oyedele outlined five strategic priorities for his tenure: boosting productivity and growth through policy coherence and investor confidence; strengthening fiscal discipline and sustainability with transparent resource management; optimizing revenue and ensuring fair taxation by broadening the tax base while protecting vulnerable groups; enhancing government coordination across institutions; and deepening public-private partnerships to drive data-driven policy design and implementation.

He stressed that success will depend not only on sound policy design but also on disciplined execution, accountability, and measurable results. “We must move from reform to result, accelerate growth, and build a more stable, inclusive, and prosperous economy,” he said.

Meanwhile, Edun’s resignation continues to generate debate within political circles. Allegations of conflict of interest and policy disagreements have been cited as possible reasons for his departure. Some observers suggest deeper irreconcilable differences may have emerged between Edun and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, both longstanding politicians from Lagos State.

Oyedele’s appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s economic management, with expectations that his leadership will help steer the country through pressing fiscal challenges and position the economy for sustainable growth.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Kwankwasiyya Movement has called for an expedited hearing at the Supreme Court of Nigeria over the leadership crisis rocking the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning that prolonged uncertainty could undermine the party’s participation in upcoming electoral processes.

In a statement, the political group aligned with former Kano State governor and a prominent leader in ADC, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, addressed members, supporters, and Nigerians on the ongoing legal dispute challenging the legitimacy of the David Mark-led leadership of the party.

The crisis, which has led to the party’s deregistration from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal, has also triggered accusations from opposition figures that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is behind the turmoil—an allegation the APC has denied, describing the situation as self-inflicted.

Signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Habibu Sale Mohammed, the Kwankwasiyya Movement said it remains confident in the integrity and independence of the Supreme Court but stressed the urgency of a timely resolution.

According to the group, the protracted legal battle has placed the party in a race against time, noting that electoral processes are governed by strict constitutional and administrative timelines.

“The absence of a clear and final determination inevitably constrains the ability of the party to fully organize, mobilize, and participate effectively within the democratic space,” the statement said.

The group urged the apex court to consider not only the legal merits of the case but also its time-sensitive implications for democratic participation and national stability.

It noted that the court has historically demonstrated that justice must be both fair and timely, particularly in matters affecting Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.

“We are confident that the Supreme Court of Nigeria, in exercising its constitutional mandate, will act in a manner that preserves both the integrity of the judiciary and the vitality of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy,” the statement added.

The movement also appealed to its members and supporters to remain calm, united, and committed to lawful democratic engagement while awaiting the court’s decision.

“The Kwankwasiyya Movement remains assured that justice will prevail—timely, fairly, and in the best interest of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the schedule of activities and timetable for its 2026 ward, local government area (LGA), and state congresses in Zamfara State.

According to a statement signed by the National Organizing Secretary, His Excellency Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, OFR, the timetable aligns with the party’s earlier nationwide congresses and outlines key dates for screenings, congresses, and appeals.

Schedule of Activities

1. Screening of Aspirants for Ward Executive Positions — Tuesday, April 28, 2026
2. Appeals from Ward Screening / Screening of Aspirants for LGA Executive Positions — Wednesday, April 29, 2026
3. Ward Congresses / Appeals from LGA Screening — Thursday, April 30, 2026
4. Appeals from Ward Congresses / LGA Congresses / Screening of Aspirants for State Executive Positions — Friday, May 1, 2026
5. Appeals from LGA Congresses / Appeals from State Screening / State Congress — Saturday, May 2, 2026
6. Appeals from State Congress — Sunday, May 3, 2026

The APC National Secretariat, located at Buhari House, 40 Blantyre Street, Wuse II, Abuja, emphasized that the congresses are part of the party’s ongoing efforts to strengthen internal democracy and ensure credible leadership structures across all levels.

The party leadership urged members and stakeholders in Zamfara State to adhere strictly to the timetable and participate actively in the process, noting that transparency and fairness remain central to the conduct of the congresses.