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Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, urging the federal government to clarify his whereabouts and condition.

In a statement, Atiku highlighted that El-Rufai’s health and welfare have become a source of anxiety for his family, friends, and associates. 

He called on the Nigerian government to disclose which agency is responsible for the former governor’s detention—whether it is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the State Security Service (DSS), or any other body.

“The federal government owes Nigerians clarity,” Atiku said, warning that secrecy around detentions can fuel suspicion and undermine public trust.

He stressed that the responsible agency has a constitutional duty to ensure El-Rufai’s safety, preserve his dignity, and provide access to medical care, family, and legal counsel. 

The former VP described reports of El-Rufai suffering a nosebleed in custody, while allegedly being denied family access, as “deeply troubling” and unacceptable in a democratic society.

Atiku further stated that if authorities cannot guarantee the former governor’s fundamental rights, he should be granted bail immediately. 

He also cautioned that the government would be held accountable should any harm come to El-Rufai.

The former VP warned against what he described as selective prosecution, alleging that opposition figures face aggressive targeting while others enjoy impunity.

“The anti-corruption campaign must not become a political weapon,” he said, emphasizing that accountability efforts must be transparent, even-handed, and free from political bias.

Meanwhile, an aide to El-Rufai, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed that the former governor remains in detention, noting that the ICPC has yet to act on his bail application. 

El-Rufai was initially detained by the EFCC after responding to an invitation on February 16, 2026, before being transferred to ICPC custody.

Adekeye stated that despite submitting a formal bail request following interrogation, El-Rufai’s legal team has not received a response, and no remand order has been presented to justify the continued detention. 

He noted that the constitutional 48-hour limit for holding a suspect without charge has already passed.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has recorded a significant grassroots victory in Nigeria’s capital, with its candidate, Mohammed Kasim, emerging winner of the chairmanship election in Gwagwalada Area Council.

Kasim polled 22,165 votes, defeating Yahaya Shehu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who secured 17,788 votes.

The result was officially announced by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer, Philip Akpen, who described the exercise as peaceful, orderly, and smoothly conducted.

A Campaign Built on Grassroots Promises

Throughout his campaign, Kasim focused heavily on community-centered development. His manifesto prioritised:

Community welfare programmes

Women’s empowerment initiatives

Improved healthcare services

Better education opportunities for children

These issues appeared to resonate strongly with voters across the council, helping him edge past his closest rival.

Broader Context: A Win Amid PDP’s Internal Crisis

The victory comes at a challenging time for the PDP nationally. The party has been grappling with internal divisions, leadership disputes, and high-profile defections. Notably, figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have recently aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), weakening the party’s national structure.

Despite these setbacks, the Gwagwalada win suggests the PDP still maintains strong grassroots support in several local communities.

FCT Elections Across Six Councils

The local government elections were conducted across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), covering six area councils:

Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)

Abaji

Kwali

Kuje

Gwagwalada

Voters elected both chairmanship and councillorship candidates.

What This Means Politically

While local elections don’t always reflect national political strength, this result is symbolically important. Gwagwalada’s diverse, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious population makes it a microcosm of Nigeria itself. 

The PDP’s success there could signal that the APC’s recent wave of defections and dominance may not automatically translate into control at the grassroots level.

For the PDP, this win is more than just a seat — it’s a morale boost and a reminder that local connections still matter deeply in Nigerian politics.

The Senate on Tuesday passed the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill 2026, following a stormy debate over key provisions of the legislation.

Heated Debate Over Clause 60

The upper chamber’s proceedings began on a tense note as Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (ADC/Abia South) demanded a division on Clause 60, which addresses the electronic transmission of election results.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio initially stated that the demand had been withdrawn, prompting immediate objections from opposition senators.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin cited Order 52(6) of the Senate Standing Orders, arguing it would be out of order to revisit any provision already ruled on by the Senate President.

The intervention sparked further uproar, with Senator Sunday Karimi briefly clashing with Abaribe. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reminded lawmakers that his motion for rescission invalidated previous decisions, making Abaribe’s demand procedurally in order.

Abaribe, invoking Order 72(1), called for a division specifically on Clause 60(3), which provides that if electronic transmission fails, Form EC8A should not serve as the sole basis for results. 

He sought the removal of the proviso allowing manual transmission in case of network failure.

During the division, 55 senators supported retaining the proviso, while 15 opposed, effectively upholding the existing clause.

Clause-by-Clause Consideration

The Senate had earlier moved into clause-by-clause deliberation following the formal seconding of a motion to rescind the earlier passage of the bill.

This allowed lawmakers to dissolve into a Committee of the Whole for detailed consideration and re-enactment of the legislation.

The process stalled briefly at Clause 60 after Abaribe’s point of order, prompting murmurs and consultations across the chamber before the session moved into a closed-door deliberation.

Timing of 2027 Elections

Concerns over the 2027 general elections timetable and technical inconsistencies in the bill prompted the motion for rescission. 

Bamidele noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had fixed the elections for February 2027, but certain provisions in the amended law, particularly the 360-day notice requirement in Clause 28, could conflict with this schedule.

He explained that conducting elections during Ramadan could adversely affect voter turnout, logistical arrangements, and the overall inclusiveness of the process.

The motion also highlighted discrepancies in the Long Title and multiple clauses, including Clauses 6, 9, 10, 22, 23, 28, 29, 32, 42, 47, 51, 60, 62, 64, 65, 73, 77, 86, 87, 89, 93, and 143. These issues reportedly affected cross-referencing, serial numbering, and internal consistency within the bill.

Former Nasir El-Rufai was on Thursday reportedly confronted by security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly after returning to Nigeria from Cairo, Egypt, in what aides described as an attempted arrest.

The claim was made by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who disclosed the development in a post on his verified account on X.

According to Adekeye, the operatives approached the former Kaduna State governor as he disembarked from his flight and sought to take him into custody. 

He said El-Rufai declined to follow the agents, insisting that he would only respond to a formal invitation or warrant.

“Security agents today attempted to arrest Malam Nasir El-Rufai as he arrived on a flight from Cairo. 

Malam El-Rufai declined to follow them without a formal invitation,” the statement read.

Adekeye further alleged that the security personnel seized the former governor’s passport during the encounter, claiming it was taken from one of his aides.

The incident comes amid heightened political tension surrounding El-Rufai, who recently defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress to the African Democratic Congress.

In a separate interview with BBC Hausa, the former governor expressed concerns that he could soon be arrested, alleging what he described as growing political pressure and intimidation against opposition figures.

He claimed that four of his former associates in Kaduna had already been detained.

“Four people we worked together in Kaduna have been arrested; so it’s only a matter of time before they come for me too,” he said.

El-Rufai maintained that he had not been arrested but suggested that the arrests of his associates indicated possible action against him. 

He also alleged that politicians were being pressured to either defect to or remain within the ruling party.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies or the Federal Government regarding the alleged attempt to arrest the former governor.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

In Nigeria’s long and troubled electoral history, the battle has rarely been about voting itself.

It has almost always been about what happens after the votes are counted.

From ward collation centres to local government offices, ballot figures have mysteriously changed, results delayed, and mandates overturned. 

For years, that grey area between polling units and final declaration has remained the soft underbelly of Nigeria’s democracy.

That is exactly the gap electronic transmission of results was meant to close.

But now, a fresh debate in the Senate suggests that loopholes may still exist.

The push for mandatory electronic transmission of results has become one of the most important electoral reforms in recent history. And that is also why Bayelsa West Senator Seriake Dickson is uneasy about the Senate’s latest amendment to the Electoral Act.

To him, the reform may have come with a loophole big enough to weaken its purpose.

The Senate’s Compromise

This week, the Senate revisited its earlier decision and agreed to allow the electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal (IREV).

But there is a catch.

The amendment provides that if internet connectivity fails, Form EC8A — the manual result sheet — will serve as the primary means of collation.

On paper, it appears to be a simple contingency plan, in practice, Dickson believes it could undermine the credibility of elections.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker argues that introducing exceptions into what should be a strict legal requirement weakens enforcement and opens the door to abuse.

“Laws are made for general rules, not exceptions,” he said, warning that what is meant to be a backup could easily become the norm.

Why the Debate Matters

Nigeria still conducts manual voting and counting. After votes are tallied, presiding officers record the figures on Form EC8A — the first official evidence of results at each polling unit.

Historically, however, problems begin after this stage.

Between ward and local government collation centres, allegations of tampering, intimidation and outright alteration of results have become common features of elections.

This is the gap electronic transmission seeks to close.

By uploading results instantly to IREV, figures become publicly visible and harder to manipulate. Parties and observers can independently verify outcomes in real time.

For reform advocates like Dickson, that transparency is non-negotiable.

He insists that once polling unit results are transmitted immediately, the era of “brigandage, executive interference and thuggery” at collation centres would drastically reduce.

Not the Ideal Law, But the Possible One

Despite his criticism, Dickson admits the outcome reflects political reality more than principle.

According to him, lawmakers had initially agreed during committee deliberations to adopt the House of Representatives’ version, which made electronic transmission mandatory without conditions.

But that position changed during plenary.

The opposition simply does not have the numbers in the Senate to insist on a stricter provision.

“In parliament, you don’t always get everything you want,” he acknowledged.

What emerged, therefore, is a compromise — electronic transmission allowed, but not compulsory.

For some, that is progress.

For others, it is reform watered down.

INEC Holds the Real Power

Even with the caveat, Dickson believes the Independent National Electoral Commission can still protect the integrity of elections.

He argues that INEC’s operational guidelines can effectively make transmission mandatory by directing presiding officers to upload results immediately after counting.

If enforced consistently, he says, the law’s weakness may not matter in practice.

In essence, the credibility of future elections may depend less on the wording of the amendment and more on how seriously INEC implements it.

Democracy Beyond Legislation

Beyond lawmakers and institutions, Dickson places responsibility on citizens as well.

He urges Nigerians to remain vigilant, participate actively at polling units and demand accountability.

Technology can reduce fraud, but it cannot replace civic engagement.

Without voters protecting their mandates at the grassroots, even the best reforms can fail.

The Bigger Question

The controversy surrounding the amendment highlights a deeper dilemma for Nigeria’s democracy: should electoral laws leave room for flexibility, or should they be airtight?

Flexibility may address logistical challenges like poor network coverage. But it may also create opportunities for manipulation.

For Dickson, the choice is clear — certainty builds trust; loopholes breed suspicion.

As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the real test will not just be whether results are counted, but whether they are transmitted, protected and trusted.

Because in the end, democracy is not only about voting.

It is about ensuring that the votes truly count.

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the people of Oruk Anam and Ukanafun Federal Constituency are reflecting on one important question: what kind of leadership do we truly deserve at the House of Representatives?

For years, many communities across the constituency have yearned for more.

More development.

More opportunities.

More presence.

More results.

Bad roads still slow down farmers and traders.

Many youths remain unemployed.

Schools and healthcare centres need urgent improvement.

And too often, the people feel disconnected from those elected to represent them.

It is clear that the time has come for a fresh start — a new kind of leadership built on credibility, compassion, and capacity.

That fresh start begins with Aniekan Solomon Abraham 

A Leader from the People, for the People

Aniekan Solomon is not a distant politician who only appears during election season. He is a son of the soil who understands the daily realities of Oruk Anam and Ukanafun because he lives among the people.

He understands the struggles of farmers trying to move their produce to markets.

He understands the frustration of young graduates searching endlessly for jobs.

He understands the needs of women, traders, and small business owners who keep the local economy alive.

This connection to the grassroots gives him something rare in politics — genuine empathy and commitment.

Credibility That Inspires Trust

At a time when many voters are tired of empty promises, Solomon stands out for his character and accessibility.

Those who know him describe a leader who listens first, consults widely, and focuses on solutions rather than noise.

He believes representation is not about occupying a seat in Abuja — it is about delivering real benefits back home.

The House of Representatives needs someone who will speak boldly, lobby effectively, and attract projects that improve lives.

Aniekan Solomon has both the competence and the determination to do exactly that.

A Clear Agenda for Progress

His vision for Oruk Anam and Ukanafun is simple and practical: development that touches every community.

His priorities include:

Better roads and rural infrastructure

Youth empowerment, skills training, and job creation

Support for farmers, traders, and small businesses

Scholarships and improved educational opportunities

Stronger healthcare services for families

Federal projects that bring visible development to the constituency

This is not politics as usual — it is purposeful representation focused on results.

Why 2027 Is a Defining Moment

This election is more than just another political exercise. It is a decision about the future of our children, our communities, and our economy.

We can continue with the old ways and slow progress.

Or we can choose a new direction.

We can settle for less.

Or we can demand better.

The choice belongs to the people.

The Movement for a New Dawn

Across villages, wards, and towns, support is growing. Youths are inspired by his energy. Women trust his compassion. Elders respect his integrity.

Because they see in Aniekan Solomon a leader who is ready to serve — not rule.

A leader who will be present — not absent.

A leader who will deliver — not disappoint.

The Time Is Now

Oruk Anam and Ukanafun deserve strong, credible, and effective representation.

They deserve a voice that will be heard.

They deserve leadership that works.

They deserve progress that is visible.

They deserve a new dawn.

And that new dawn begins now.

Support Aniekan Solomon for House of Representatives, 2027.

Together, we rise. Together, we build. Together, we win.

Nigeria’s Senate has endorsed the electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IReV), but stopped short of making it mandatory, leaving room for manual collation where technology fails.

The decision, reached during Tuesday’s plenary, followed a fresh review of a controversial section of the proposed Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 — a clause that has sparked nationwide debate about transparency, credibility, and the country’s digital readiness.

Leading the charge for the amendment was Senator Tahir Monguno (Borno North), who argued that Clause 60(3) of the bill required adjustments to avoid legal disputes and operational setbacks during elections.

Under the revised provision, presiding officers at polling units are permitted to electronically transmit results to INEC’s IReV portal after completing, signing, and stamping Form EC8A — the official result sheet.

However, the law does not compel real-time uploads, nor does it make electronic transmission compulsory.

Instead, the Senate adopted a hybrid approach: when network failures or communication challenges occur, the manually completed EC8A forms will serve as the primary basis for collation and final declaration of results.

Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, who seconded the motion, said the reform strikes a balance between the demand for electoral transparency and the infrastructural limitations across parts of the country, particularly rural areas where connectivity remains weak.

After brief deliberations, Senate President Godswill Akpabio put the proposal to a voice vote, with the “ayes” carrying the day.

What This Means for Nigerian Elections

The amendment signals progress, but cautiously too.

While electronic transmission has long been championed by civil society groups as a safeguard against manipulation, the refusal to make it mandatory raises concerns that manual processes — historically vulnerable to interference — could still dominate in critical moments.

Supporters argue the fallback option is practical, given Nigeria’s patchy telecom coverage and recurring technical glitches during past elections.

Critics, however, warn that leaving transmission optional may weaken accountability and create loopholes that undermine public trust.

In essence, the Senate has chosen compromise over certainty — embracing technology, but not fully committing to it.

Whether this middle-ground approach improves credibility or simply preserves old problems may only become clear when the next election cycle arrives.

Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the long-running political feud between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly is finally drawing to a close — following fresh intervention by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike confirmed that the President personally stepped into the dispute for the second time, describing Tinubu’s involvement as both decisive and final.

According to the former Rivers governor, this latest mediation would mark the last time the Presidency would need to wade into the state’s political tensions.

“This is the second time Mr President is intervening,” Wike said. “And by the grace of God, this will be the last time. I have told them to obey Mr President, and I know they will not hesitate.”

Behind-the-Scenes Truce

The assurance follows reports of a closed-door meeting on Sunday night at the Presidential Villa involving Tinubu, Wike, and Governor Fubara.

Sources familiar with the meeting claimed it was aimed at restoring peace and ending months of friction that have crippled governance in Rivers State. The rift between the governor and lawmakers has sparked fears of legislative paralysis, political instability, and stalled development projects.

There were also unconfirmed reports that Fubara later visited Wike at his residence to seek reconciliation and mend fences — a symbolic move many observers interpret as a sign that both camps are ready to compromise.

Tinubu as Political Referee

Wike portrayed Tinubu as a father figure committed to stability in Rivers, stressing that the President’s intervention was driven purely by the interest of the people.

“He is very kind to the people of the state. If there seems to be any problem between the legislature and the governor, as a father he really has to intervene,” he said.

The FCT Minister further expressed confidence that both the governor and the lawmakers would honor the President’s directives to prevent further clashes.

A Crisis That Tested Rivers Politics

The power struggle between Fubara and the Assembly — widely linked to the lingering influence of Wike in the state’s political structure — has dominated Rivers’ political landscape for months.

The conflict triggered legislative battles, threats of impeachment, and deep divisions within the ruling party.

Analysts say the dispute not only strained governance but also raised concerns about political godfatherism and the delicate balance of power in Nigeria’s subnational politics.

A Fresh Start or Temporary Peace?

While Wike’s assurances signal optimism, many Rivers residents remain cautious. Previous attempts at reconciliation have failed to produce lasting peace.

This time, however, the direct involvement of the President may carry the political weight needed to enforce compliance.

If both sides keep their word, Rivers State could finally move past the turbulence and refocus on governance and development.

For now, Wike’s message is clear: the era of discord is over.

As pressure mounts for electoral reforms ahead of future elections, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly rejected claims that poor network coverage makes real-time electronic transmission of election results impossible in parts of Nigeria.

His comments come in response to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who recently suggested that nationwide real-time transmission may not be feasible due to insecurity and weak telecommunications infrastructure in some states.

Speaking at the launch of a book titled The Burden of Legislators in Nigeria, Akpabio argued that insisting on “real-time” transmission could create legal complications if networks fail during elections.

According to him, several states currently experience limited connectivity due to security challenges. He warned that if the law mandates real-time transmission and networks collapse — or even the national grid fails — the validity of election results could be questioned in court.

“Real-time transmission means that in over nine states where networks are not working because of insecurity, there will be no election results,” Akpabio said.

He added that the word “real-time” was deliberately avoided in discussions to prevent legal loopholes, leaving the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to determine the most suitable method of result transmission.

Obi: That Excuse No Longer Holds Water

Peter Obi, however, disagrees.

In a post shared on X after joining a peaceful protest at the National Assembly demanding urgent electoral reforms, the former Anambra State governor dismissed the network argument as outdated and unconvincing.

He pointed to Nigeria’s banking sector as proof that secure digital systems already operate efficiently nationwide.

“Claims that certain states lack network coverage are no longer acceptable,” Obi said.

“Financial institutions operate nationwide through secure digital networks to conduct transactions and collect taxes daily. If banking systems function seamlessly, our electoral system can and should do the same.”

For Obi, the issue is not technology but political will.

Call for Transparency and Accountability

Beyond electronic transmission, Obi also outlined broader reforms he believes are necessary to restore credibility to Nigeria’s elections.

He argued that anyone seeking public office must meet strict standards of transparency and integrity. According to him, candidates should provide verifiable educational records and fully comply with constitutional requirements before contesting.

He also stressed the importance of open campaigns, public debates, and scrutiny of candidates.

“Anyone seeking to hold titles such as Honourable, Distinguished, or Excellency must emerge through a transparent and honourable process,” he said.

“Most importantly, election results must be transmitted electronically and in real time to protect the people’s mandate and eliminate manipulation.”

A Bigger Picture

Obi’s message taps into growing public frustration over election credibility in Nigeria. For many citizens, electronic transmission is seen as a crucial safeguard against tampering, delays, and result manipulation.

He urged young Nigerians to stay engaged and continue pushing for reform, insisting that credible elections are the foundation of good governance.

“Nigeria must stop being a so-called Giant of Africa that embarrasses the continent,” he said.

 “We must become a beacon of exemplary governance, starting with credible elections.”

He concluded with a familiar message of hope and determination:

“A New Nigeria is possible — but only if we stand and act together.”

Final Thoughts

The debate highlights a deeper question: if banks, telecoms, and fintech companies can process millions of transactions daily across the country, why should elections be any different?

For many Nigerians, the answer is simple — technology exists. What remains is the commitment to use it.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, is expected to forward a new list of commissioner nominees to the State House of Assembly this week for screening and approval, as part of moves to stabilise governance in the state.

The development follows a fresh political truce reportedly facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu between the governor and his estranged political ally, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the president convened a late-night meeting at the Presidential Villa on Sunday. In attendance were Governor Fubara, the FCT minister, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and several prominent political stakeholders from the state.

The meeting was aimed at resolving the prolonged political crisis that has disrupted government activities and heightened tensions between the executive and the legislature.

Insiders disclosed that the governor was presented with key conditions designed to ease the impeachment pressure mounted by lawmakers. 

One of the major steps agreed upon was the immediate submission of a list of commissioners to reconstitute the state cabinet and restore full executive operations.

Fubara was also said to have been advised to strictly adhere to the agreements reached during the presidential intervention as part of efforts to ensure political stability and prevent further clashes within the state’s leadership.

The expected cabinet nominations are seen as a critical test of the fragile peace deal and could determine how quickly normal governance returns to Rivers State after months of uncertainty.

Political observers believe the success of the reconciliation may shape the state’s political landscape in the coming months, especially given the high-stakes rivalry between both camps.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again stepped into the deepening political turmoil in Rivers State, convening a late-night meeting with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in what appears to be a fresh attempt to broker peace between the two feuding camps.

The closed-door meeting reportedly took place around 11 p.m. on Sunday at the President’s official residence inside the State House, Abuja. It was also attended by several influential political leaders from Rivers State.

Sources familiar with the discussions said the intervention is part of renewed efforts by the presidency to calm rising tensions that have threatened governance and political stability in the oil-rich state.

Fresh Tensions Resurface

Sunday’s talks come amid renewed disagreements over political control and leadership recognition within the state.

The situation has been further complicated by stalled impeachment moves allegedly being considered by lawmakers against Governor Fubara.

The crisis, which has lingered for months, has continued to divide the state’s political structure, with loyalties sharply split between supporters of the governor and those aligned with his predecessor, Wike.

There have also been reports that the President advised Fubara to acknowledge Wike’s dominant political influence in Rivers politics — a suggestion that has stirred debate given their strained relationship and different party alignments.

A Long-Running Power Struggle

The rift between Fubara and Wike has grown into one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political battles.

Wike, a former governor and now a key figure in the federal government, is widely seen as a powerful political force in Rivers State. 

However, since assuming office, Fubara has gradually asserted independence, triggering a fierce contest for control of party structures, lawmakers, and state political machinery.

The rivalry has led to repeated clashes within the State House of Assembly, threats of impeachment, factional politics, and disruptions to governance.

Tinubu’s Repeated Interventions

This latest meeting marks about the fourth time President Tinubu has personally intervened to resolve the standoff.

His continued involvement signals growing concern at the federal level that the crisis could destabilize the state and affect governance, security, and economic activities, especially given Rivers State’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s oil sector.

Despite earlier reconciliation attempts, lasting peace has remained elusive, with each truce quickly followed by fresh disagreements.

What Happens Next?

While details of the outcome of Sunday’s meeting remain unclear, many observers believe the President is pushing for a political compromise that will allow both camps to coexist and ensure stability.

Whether this latest intervention will finally end the power tussle or merely delay another round of confrontation remains to be seen.

For now, all eyes remain on Rivers State as the political drama continues to unfold

Former Minister of Sports and Youth, Solomon Dalung, believes the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is well-positioned to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Dalung emphasized that defeating Tinubu will require a united effort from the opposition.

“So I think we have many people capable of challenging Tinubu,” Dalung said, adding, “I can decide to contest, and I will challenge him.”

The ADC, adopted last year by the opposition coalition, boasts an impressive lineup of politicians. Among its members are ex-vice president Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Rivers State governor and former minister Rotimi Amaechi, ex-Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, ex-APC national chairman John Odigie-Oyegun, and former Senate President David Mark.

Critics have raised concerns that the ADC could face internal tensions after its presidential primary due to the high-profile roster of members. Meanwhile, the ruling APC, enjoying the support of 30 governors and a majority in the National Assembly, has dismissed claims that the ADC poses a serious challenge.

Dalung, however, insisted that the opposition party is united in its goal to unseat Tinubu, regardless of who emerges as the ADC’s presidential candidate.

“We are committed to conducting a transparent primary, and whoever wins will have the support of all of us to challenge Tinubu,” he said. “Challenging Tinubu is not about an individual—it’s about the party. That resolution has been agreed upon and approved.”

With the 2027 elections just over a year away, the APC continues to consolidate its ranks, attracting governors, lawmakers, and political heavyweights, while the main opposition PDP struggles with defections and internal divisions.

This has positioned the ADC as a potential focal point for opposition forces seeking to offer a credible alternative to the ruling party.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has inspired a protest outside the National Assembly, as his loyal supporters joined forces with civil society organisations, some opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) members, and women’s groups.

The demonstration began from the Federal Secretariat, with Peter Obi’s supporters at the forefront of the march toward the National Assembly gate. Organisers say the protest is aimed at raising their voices on issues tied to governance, transparency, and accountability—principles Peter Obi has long championed.

Security was heightened along the route, with officers from the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps stationed to maintain order. Barricades have already been placed to prevent entry into the National Assembly premises.

Participants emphasized that the protest is peaceful and symbolic, intending to make a statement at the entrance while reflecting the ideals and advocacy Peter Obi represents.

A mass protest, dubbed “Occupy National Assembly,” kicked off on Monday in Abuja as citizens, civil society groups, and political activists demanded transparency in how election results are transmitted. 

The demonstration was sparked by the Senate’s recent decision to remove the phrase “real-time” from the Electoral Act’s provision on electronic transmission of results, a move critics say weakens electoral accountability.

Protesters insist that lawmakers must enshrine mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results into law rather than leaving it to the discretion of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

Many fear that without this, future elections could face manipulation, delays, and a loss of public trust.

The crowd included civil society members, youths, women’s groups, and political activists, with notable figures joining the demonstration to amplify calls for reform. 

Protesters marched toward the National Assembly, where security forces had set up barricades to prevent entry into the complex. Despite the heavy security presence, organisers emphasized that the sit-in was peaceful, aiming to pressure lawmakers without escalating tensions.

Chants and placards called for electoral transparency, urging legislators not to dilute critical reforms. The protest has attracted nationwide attention, reflecting rising public frustration with perceived loopholes in election law that could compromise the integrity of future polls.

The demonstration comes ahead of an emergency Senate session scheduled for Tuesday, as citizens and activists vow to maintain pressure until lawmakers provide clear, enforceable guarantees for transparent, credible elections.