Crunch Times News

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has constituted a 73-member Central Coordination Committee to oversee preparations for its 2026 National Convention, appointing Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, as chairman.

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, will serve as vice chairman, while Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has been named secretary of the committee.

The committee, approved by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), will supervise the planning, coordination and conduct of the APC’s ward, local government, state and zonal congresses, leading up to the national convention scheduled for March 2026.

In a statement signed by the party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, the APC said details regarding the committee’s inauguration would be announced later.

Congress Timetable Released

Alongside the committee’s inauguration, the ruling party unveiled an updated timetable for its congresses nationwide.

Membership e-registration will begin on January 31 and end on February 8, 2026. Ward congresses are fixed for February 18, followed by local government congresses on February 21.

State congresses will take place on March 3, while zonal congresses across the six geo-political zones are scheduled for March 25.

The APC National Convention will hold from March 27 to March 28, 2026.

Zonal Venues

The party also announced locations for the zonal congresses:

South-West – Ibadan

South-East – Enugu

South-South – Rivers/Cross River

North-West – Kaduna

North-East – Gombe/Bauchi

North-Central – Nasarawa

Forms and Fees for Aspirants

The APC released the cost of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for aspirants seeking party offices.

At the ward level, Expression of Interest forms cost ₦5,000, while nomination forms range between ₦15,000 and ₦20,000.

For local government offices, the Expression of Interest fee is ₦10,000, with chairmanship nomination forms priced at ₦100,000.

At the state level, chairmanship nomination forms cost ₦1 million, while other executive positions attract ₦500,000.

For national offices, aspirants for national chairman must pay ₦10 million, while other national positions range between ₦5 million and ₦7.5 million.

Concessions and Exemptions

The party granted concessions to female aspirants, youths and persons with disabilities, who will pay only the Expression of Interest fee and 50 percent of the nomination fee.

Ekiti, Osun, Rivers states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are excluded from the ward, local government and state congresses but will elect three delegates each to participate in the national convention.

All forms will be completed online after payment verification by the party’s national secretariat. Payments are to be made directly into the APC’s designated accounts with Zenith Bank and UBA.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Here’s a full story aligned with the report:

Peter Obi has put an end to speculation about his political future, declaring his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election.

He made the announcement while campaigning for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate ahead of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“You see this coming election, support us in AMAC; it will help me. Your support in AMAC is critical to our journey. I am involved and contesting the coming election as number one. When I come back, you will see. I assure you,” Obi told supporters.

Since joining the ADC, members of the Obidient movement and other supporters have been urging the party to make him its top presidential candidate. But ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi has cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric, stressing the importance of unity within the party.

Speculation has also emerged about a possible Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket, particularly after Kwankwaso opted not to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Meanwhile, supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have suggested that Obi consider a running mate role, similar to the 2019 arrangement. Obi dismissed the idea, insisting he intends to contest as the party’s standard-bearer.

He urged his followers to back his preferred candidate in the AMAC polls, describing their support as “crucial to his political journey.” Since declaring his presidential ambitions, Obi has repeatedly emphasized that he will not spend “a day beyond four years in office” if elected.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Dr Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to former Osun State Governor and current minister Gboyega Oyetola, has dismissed allegations by the Osun State House of Assembly linking Oyetola to the control of local government funds, describing the claims as fabricated and malicious.

Reacting to a statement by Speaker Adewale Egbedun, Akinola said local governments enjoy full financial autonomy under the Constitution and are not subject to interference from any state official or federal minister. 

He stressed that Oyetola has no constitutional or statutory role in the administration or disbursement of council funds.

He accused the Assembly of spreading propaganda to divert attention from the state government’s challenges and ongoing legal disputes. 

Akinola cited the Supreme Court judgment of July 11, 2024, which granted full autonomy to local governments nationwide, barring governors from controlling their finances.

He also referenced a February 10, 2025 Court of Appeal ruling that reinstated Osun’s elected local government chairmen, noting that the decision remains final and binding.

Akinola urged the state government to respect court rulings and stop what he called misinformation, while calling on Nigerians to defend local government independence and uphold the rule of law.

By Solomon Ekpo, Plateau 

Vice President Kashim Shettima has told Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang that President Bola Tinubu has assured him of a “place second to none” in the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his formal decision to join the ruling party.

Shettima spoke on Tuesday in Jos while leading a high-level APC delegation to Mutfwang’s official declaration from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, describing the governor’s move as a major boost to party unity and national stability.

According to the Vice President, the ruling party is not facing internal crisis but is built on cohesion, inclusiveness and leadership that prioritises the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians.

“We are not a party in crisis. We believe in team-building, unity and leadership that uplifts the vulnerable,” Shettima said.

He described Mutfwang’s entry into the APC as a turning point for Plateau State and the North-Central region, adding that it reflected a broader national drive toward political cohesion.

Mutfwang: Defection Is Strategic Realignment

In his remarks, Governor Mutfwang said his decision followed months of consultations with President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima and other senior national leaders, stressing that the move was a strategic realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“This is not defection; it is realignment. We are re-engineering Plateau to fully enjoy the dividends of democracy,” the governor stated.

Mutfwang pledged full support for President Tinubu’s re-election, citing the administration’s efforts at economic stabilisation and improved security.

“It is better to follow the man who knows the road,” he said, assuring that Plateau would deliver overwhelming support for the APC in 2027.

Federal Projects, Security Boost for Plateau

Shettima announced key federal interventions for Plateau State, including the mobilisation of contractors for the Akwanga–Jos highway, Plateau’s selection as the pilot state for the national livestock development programme, and approval for the recruitment of 1,000 youths as forest guards.

He also praised Plateau’s historic contributions to Nigeria’s unity, recalling the leadership of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and the sacrifices of military officers from the state.

Akpabio Hails Tinubu’s Inclusiveness

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, described the Tinubu administration as Nigeria’s most inclusive and religiously tolerant government, noting that the president has consistently demonstrated fairness across religious and ethnic lines.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, Akpabio said Tinubu’s leadership style had strengthened unity, equity and national cohesion.

“President Tinubu treats Christians and Muslims equally. His government reflects fairness, justice and inclusion,” Akpabio said.

He congratulated Mutfwang, noting that the governor’s decision had repositioned Plateau at the centre of national politics and strengthened the APC’s dominance in the North-Central zone.

APC Leadership Welcomes Mutfwang

APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe, described Mutfwang’s entry as a “homecoming,” saying it marked the unification of Plateau’s political blocs under one platform.

He noted that the APC now hosts structures from the PDP, Labour Party, PRP and NNPP, making it the dominant political force in the state.

“With this realignment, APC is now the majority party across all wards and local governments in Plateau,” he said.

Goshwe assured the governor of the party’s full support ahead of the 2027 elections, predicting a strong showing for President Tinubu in the state.

North-Central Now Fully APC

Akpabio further stated that Plateau’s entry into the APC meant all states in the North-Central geopolitical zone were now aligned with the ruling party, describing the development as politically significant.

He assured Plateau residents of federal support in tackling insecurity and improving livelihoods, adding that the National Assembly would back funding initiatives aimed at closing internally displaced persons (IDP) camps nationwide.

“We will not leave you alone. Plateau will receive full federal support to improve security and the well-being of its people,” Akpabio said.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

As preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has called on political parties and actors to conduct themselves with conscience, civility, and a strong sense of patriotism.

Akpabio made the call on Tuesday while welcoming senators back from a six-week recess following the Christmas and New Year holidays, warning that Nigeria’s unity and stability must never be sacrificed on the altar of political ambition.

According to him, democracy thrives when political competition is guided by principles, public discourse remains responsible, and national interest is placed above personal or party considerations.

The Senate President also charged lawmakers to prioritise legislation that will drive economic growth, strengthen democratic institutions, enhance security, and rebuild public trust in governance as the 10th National Assembly enters its final stretch.

He announced the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), describing the late lawmaker, who died on December 31, 2025, at the age of 52, as a dedicated public servant known for diligence, humility, and commitment to duty.

In his address titled “The Final Stretch: Finishing the Work, Honouring the Trust,” Akpabio emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between the legislature, the executive, and other stakeholders, anchored on mutual respect and constitutional responsibility.

He stressed that cooperation must remain a guiding principle for national progress, adding that lawmakers should avoid legislative excesses and focus on passing laws that address Nigeria’s most pressing needs.

“What we pass at this stage must be reforms that endure, laws that work, and oversight that corrects rather than merely criticises,” he said, noting that the remaining period of the Assembly should serve as a legacy phase focused on completing unfinished business and removing legislative bottlenecks.

Akpabio said history would judge the National Assembly not by the number of bills passed, but by the impact of its decisions on the lives of Nigerians.

On security, the Senate President commended ongoing military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in combating terrorism, noting that such partnerships strengthen the country’s security architecture.

He also expressed sympathy to families affected by insecurity across the country, stressing that security challenges represent real human losses and must be addressed with urgency and compassion.

Reflecting on the state of the nation, Akpabio said Nigeria has continued to make progress despite economic pressures, security concerns, and social challenges, praising the resilience of Nigerians who have continued to persevere and contribute to national development.

He, however, expressed concern over a recent United Nations warning that up to 35 million Nigerians could face hunger this year, describing it as a call to action for lawmakers to intensify efforts through legislation, oversight, and collaboration to improve food security.

According to him, protecting vulnerable citizens and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind must remain a top priority as the country approaches another election cycle.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

By Idara Okokon, Uyo

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State convened a major stakeholders’ meeting on Monday, January 26, aimed at revitalizing the party and strengthening its grassroots structures ahead of future elections.

Iquat Umoren, the Caretaker Chairman of the PDP in the state, expressed gratitude to members for their continued loyalty despite internal challenges. 

He described the gathering as a key step in rebuilding the party’s foundations and consolidating its presence across local communities.

During the meeting, Ini Ememobong, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, highlighted the need for unity within the party. 

He acknowledged recent defections and disputes but urged members to remain focused on long-term party growth and electoral success. Ememobong also assured that ongoing legal issues facing the party would be resolved favorably, reinforcing confidence in PDP’s future.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to mobilize support at the grassroots level and ensure that PDP remains competitive in Akwa Ibom’s political landscape, particularly with the 2027 elections on the horizon.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s move highlights a recurring pattern in Nigerian politics: party loyalty is often fluid, power is centralized, and ideology frequently takes a back seat. As more politicians align with the ruling party, questions about political competition and the long-term balance of democracy in Nigeria are likely to grow.

To many observers, Yusuf’s decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is more than a personal defection—it is a strategic shift signaling a calculated realignment in Kano’s power structure. Kano remains one of Nigeria’s most politically influential states, and any move by its sitting governor carries national implications, particularly ahead of future elections and federal resource allocations.

Rather than ideological alignment, the move appears driven by political survival and access to influence, a common feature of Nigerian party politics where proximity to federal power often shapes decisions. This underscores a recurring theme in the country’s governance: power dynamics frequently outweigh policy platforms or party principles.

What this means for Kano residents

For ordinary citizens, party colours are secondary to governance outcomes. Many will be watching to see whether this political shift leads to:

-Increased federal support for Kano

-Improved infrastructure and security

-Tangible development projects rather than just political reshuffling

History shows that switching parties does not automatically improve governance. The real measure will be whether this alignment produces measurable improvements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety for residents.

Impact on political parties and national figures

For the APC, Yusuf’s defection strengthens its hold on the North-West and signals growing dominance in Kano politics. It also provides a potential boost to the party’s leadership at the national level, including President Bola Tinubu, by consolidating support in one of Nigeria’s largest and most influential states. 

A stronger APC presence in Kano could enhance the party’s ability to implement policies and showcase governance achievements, which indirectly supports its leadership’s political standing.

For the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), the loss is significant. Kano was its most prominent stronghold, and Yusuf’s exit raises questions about the party’s long-term relevance beyond regional pockets. The move may force the NNPP to rethink its strategy, candidate selection, and alliances if it hopes to remain competitive in future elections.

Broader national implications

Yusuf’s move reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics: fluid party loyalty, centralization of power, and pragmatism over ideology. As more politicians align with the ruling party, concerns about reduced political competition and a potential imbalance in democratic representation are likely to intensify.

Observers and analysts will also be monitoring whether the defection leads to meaningful policy changes or simply reshuffles political influence without tangible benefits for the citizens of Kano.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

A former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition, describing it as critical to Nigeria’s political stability, growth, and overall development.

Amosun made the declaration while speaking with journalists at his 68th birthday celebration held in Ake, Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital. 

He stressed that the long-standing understanding between the North and South on rotational presidency must be upheld in the interest of equity, fairness, and national unity.

According to him, it is only fair for the South to complete an eight-year presidential tenure in line with Nigeria’s informal zoning arrangement, noting that such balance has remained central to the country’s stability.

Reaffirming his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the former senator argued that respect for zoning between the North and South is a “no-brainer” for anyone genuinely committed to Nigeria’s unity.

“In the interest of Nigeria, we must observe rotation. If the North takes the presidency at one time, the South must take it the next time,” Amosun said.

He recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari, from the North, served a full eight-year tenure, adding that it is now the South’s turn under President Tinubu, who hails from the South-West but governs in the interest of all Nigerians.

“President Tinubu represents all of us in Nigeria, but by rotation, he is also representing the South. So, anyone who loves this country should agree that we must respect the rotational arrangement,” he added.

While acknowledging that the reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration came with early hardship, Amosun noted that the policies were already beginning to yield positive results. 

He urged Nigerians to remain patient and optimistic, expressing confidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda would ultimately deliver tangible dividends of democracy.

The event attracted several APC stalwarts, including former Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Lekan Adegbite; former Minister of State for Transportation, Ademola Adegoroye; former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Isola; former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Tunde Lemo; as well as former senators Iyabo Anisulowo and Gbenga Obadara, among other party leaders and supporters.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

All is now set in Kano State for the formal reception of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move widely seen as a major turning point in the state’s political landscape.

The ceremony, scheduled to hold at the Government House, will officially seal the governor’s defection from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), ending months of intense speculation over his political future.

As of the time of filing this report, the Coronation Hall venue within the Government House complex was filled to capacity, with supporters and party loyalists drawn from all 44 local government areas of the state.

The event is further bolstered by the return of Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former APC National Chairman and immediate past governor of Kano State, who is expected to play a central role in the reception. 

Ganduje arrived in Nigeria early Monday from London, where he attended the graduation ceremony of his daughter, Fatima, at King’s College.

According to party insiders, Ganduje’s presence is expected to trigger a wave of defections from the Kwankwasiyya political movement into the APC, further strengthening the party’s foothold in the state.

Governor Yusuf is expected to formally unveil the APC broom symbol at the Government House before proceeding to the Coronation Hall, where he will inaugurate the party’s electronic membership registration exercise. 

The initiative is aimed at consolidating the APC’s structure and expanding its grassroots base ahead of future elections.

Confirming Ganduje’s arrival, Garba Muhammad, Chief of Staff to the former APC National Chairman, disclosed that he landed in Abuja at about 5:30 a.m. aboard a British Airways flight and would proceed to Kano for a series of high-profile political engagements tied to the realignment.

Political observers believe the formal reception of Governor Yusuf into the APC could significantly redraw alliances in Kano politics, reshape the balance of power, and strengthen the ruling party’s influence across the North-West.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

The growing political involvement of businessman and philanthropist Obi Cubana has sparked renewed interest in governance among young Nigerians, the City Boy Movement has said, describing the development as a positive shift in the country’s democratic landscape.

The Director-General of the movement, Oluwatosin Shoga, made this known in a statement on Monday while responding to criticism over the increasing presence of successful entrepreneurs and philanthropists in politics.

According to Shoga, Obi Cubana’s entry into the political space has become a rallying point for youth engagement, drawing the attention of thousands of young Nigerians who had previously felt excluded from the political process.

“For years, young people complained about recycled leadership and political exclusion,” Shoga said. “Today, figures like Obi Cubana are helping to reawaken interest in governance, not by force, but by inspiration.”

He noted that Nigeria is at a critical stage in its democratic evolution, where fresh ideas and inclusive leadership are urgently needed to drive national development.

Shoga stressed that democracy thrives when capable and willing citizens are encouraged to participate, regardless of their professional background.

“Nigeria’s progress depends on the involvement of patriotic, competent individuals who are ready to contribute to nation-building. Shutting the door against such participation would weaken, not strengthen, democracy,” he said.

The City Boy Movement said the attention generated by Obi Cubana’s political involvement has re-energised youth participation, with many young Nigerians now engaging in political discussions, asking critical questions, and showing renewed interest in public affairs.

“Thousands of young people who were once disconnected are now paying attention. That level of awareness and engagement is the foundation of a healthy and vibrant democracy,” Shoga added.

He also addressed what he described as contradictions in public discourse, noting that while Nigerians often criticise age-dominated leadership, resistance sometimes arises when younger-minded individuals step forward to lead.

Reaffirming support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Shoga said the administration has demonstrated a commitment to youth inclusion, entrepreneurship, and fresh perspectives in governance.

“The evolving political environment reflects Nigeria’s democratic maturity. Our future will be shaped by courage, participation, and unity—not fear of change,” he concluded.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

What began as a routine youth endorsement rally in Lokoja on Sunday swiftly transformed into a powerful political statement ahead of the 2027 general elections, as youths of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State presented a N100 million cheque for the purchase of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election nomination form, signalling early mobilisation and growing support for the President’s second-term bid.

The cheque was presented to Governor Ahmed Ododo at the Youths Endorsement Rally held at the Muhammadu Buhari Square, Lokoja, by Babangida Onimisi, President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN). Onimisi said the gesture represented the collective decision of Kogi youths to endorse President Tinubu for a second term in office.

According to him, the endorsement was driven by the need to consolidate what he described as the foundation laid by the President for a better and more prosperous Nigeria.

He said Tinubu’s leadership has been “purposeful and impactful,” adding that its effects are visible across the country.

“Your Excellency, the N100 million cheque we are presenting today is for the purchase of the presidential nomination form for our President,” Onimisi said.

“We want to continue with Tinubu’s promising journey to the promised land for the good of all Nigerians. Our votes are for Tinubu come 2027.”

Onimisi also commended Governor Ododo for what he described as impressive developmental strides recorded in Kogi State within his first two years in office, assuring him of the unwavering support of youths for a second term in 2028.

Speaking at the rally, APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, described President Tinubu and Governor Ododo as leaders of the present generation whose policies and programmes have positively impacted Nigerian youths.

Israel said government interventions under the Tinubu administration have touched students, young entrepreneurs, and grassroots communities across the country.

Similarly, the Kogi State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello, said President Tinubu would be remembered for transforming Nigeria’s economy, while Governor Ododo would be remembered for governing the state with humility and a development-driven mindset.

Bello praised the youths for what he described as a bold and patriotic move, noting that continuity in leadership remains critical to sustaining development at both the national and state levels.

The Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Monday Anyebe, said Nigerian youths must rise above ego-driven politics and work collectively for national progress.

“The task ahead of Nigerian youths is too important for selfish politics,” Anyebe said.

“We must work together for the re-election of President Tinubu and the continued success of Governor Ododo, whose leadership has remained a beacon of stability and progress in Kogi.”

Responding, Governor Ododo thanked the youths for entrusting him with the responsibility of delivering the cheque to President Tinubu for the 2027 presidential nomination form.

He said the gesture underscored a broader political choice facing Nigerians ahead of the next election cycle.

“What you have done today is to clearly tell the President that the 2027 election will not be between political parties alone,” Ododo said.

“It will be between vision and empty rhetoric; between courage and cowardice; between those fixing Nigeria and those who destroyed it.”

Ododo added that the election would not be defined by ethnic or sectional divisions but by leadership capacity and commitment to national development.

“Your message will be delivered. Nigerians appreciate courageous, selfless and compassionate leadership,” he said.

The governor noted that President Tinubu’s mandate aligns with the aspirations of Nigerian youths, stressing that every effort by the administration is aimed at securing better opportunities for future generations.

“We will not fail our generation. We are doing this together for the greatness of Kogi and Nigeria,” Ododo added.

Hundreds of APC youths drawn from the 21 Local Government Areas of Kogi State were reported to have attended the rally, underscoring growing youth engagement and early political alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has reacted to growing speculation that he may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Dogara, who spoke on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, urged Nigerians and political commentators to exclude him from the ongoing discussions, stressing that national interest—not personal ambition or political pressure—should guide decisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

His comments come amid renewed debate over whether the APC will again present a Muslim–Muslim ticket in 2027 or opt for a religiously balanced pairing.

“I would have sincerely pleaded with you to leave me out of this,” Dogara said, reacting to questions about the rumoured shake-up of the presidential ticket. “Whatever we are doing shouldn’t be because we are afraid of anybody breathing down our necks; it should be because it is the right thing to do.”

Call for Inclusive Governance

The former Speaker emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity must be reflected at the highest levels of leadership, arguing that governance should unite rather than alienate any segment of the population.

According to Dogara, discussions around power rotation and religious balance should not be reduced to regional sentiments alone but seen from a broader national and faith-based perspective.

“We are talking about running an inclusive government, bringing everybody in this country together, so that we can build a nation that works for all of us,” he said.

He added that rotational leadership remains a legitimate subject for national discourse, noting that concerns go beyond Northern Christians to include the Christian faith across the country.

“If you have a Muslim, whether he comes from the North or the South, let it be that he is representing the Muslim community. And if you have a Christian, wherever he comes from, he represents the Christian faith. That way, you achieve religious balance,” Dogara explained.

2027 Ticket Still an Open Discussion

While distancing himself from any personal ambition, Dogara acknowledged that conversations around the composition of the 2027 presidential ticket are already taking place within political circles.

On the possibility of a Christian emerging as Tinubu’s running mate, he described it as an ongoing discussion rather than a settled decision.

“It’s a discussion, and I am aware that such discussions are already taking place,” he said.

However, Dogara also pointed out the political reality that incumbent presidents traditionally retain firm control over their party’s ticket.

“At the end of the day, whatever the president decides, nobody who is a serving president has ever lost the party primaries. So, we assume that the president will get the party’s ticket,” he added.

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

A federal lawmaker has dismissed recent comments by Daniel Bwala on the Rivers State political situation, describing them as ill-judged, biased and far outside his official remit.

The lawmaker said the confidence many Nigerians repose in Nyesom Wike is firmly rooted in his proven record as governor of Rivers State — a performance so notable that even former President Muhammadu Buhari publicly honoured him, despite not being particularly fond of his politics.

He accused Bwala of exercising poor judgment by suggesting that Wike was frustrating Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s ability to govern the state, arguing that such claims distort the realities on ground.

According to him, Bwala went further by projecting his personal opinions as the position of President Bola Tinubu, an action he described as inappropriate and unbecoming.

“The manner of his comment reflects classic implication framing from a confused individual who dabbles into matters beyond his competence and job description,” the lawmaker said.

“He denigrates his office by passing off his personal biases as the President’s views. He was certainly not speaking for the President, who clearly understands where responsibility lies in the Rivers situation. Bwala does not speak for the President — that is not his remit. 

He is far down the pecking order of presidential spokesmen.”

The lawmaker, who also chairs the House Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, suggested that Bwala’s outburst may be driven by unresolved bitterness over the defeat of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 presidential election.

“Bwala spoke out of turn because Minister Wike politically neutralised Atiku Abubakar. Atiku was his boss until he jumped ship,” he said.

“Obviously, he is still burdened by a sense of what might have been, despite grovelling back for relevance in a government made possible by people like the Minister, while he previously engaged in self-serving rants elsewhere.”

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja

Supporters of the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on Sunday stormed his residence in Kano in a show of solidarity amid growing political tension in the state.

The visit followed the recent defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, from the NNPP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that has stirred strong reactions within the party.

Kwankwaso disclosed the development in a statement shared on his official Facebook page, noting that the supporters came from Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State.

Expressing gratitude for the visit, the former Kano governor described the moment as a difficult period and commended the supporters for their steadfastness.

“This afternoon, I was honoured to receive a solidarity visit at my residence in Kano from the resilient people of Nasarawa Local Government,” Kwankwaso said.

“In our discussions, I reaffirmed my profound appreciation for their unwavering courage and determination. Despite the recent trials that have tested the faith and fortitude of many, they have chosen to stand firmly with us—not for personal gain, but for the collective progress and wellbeing of our people.”

He further assured them of his continued commitment to the Kwankwasiyya movement, stressing that its core ideals remain intact.

“Together, we remain resolute in upholding and advancing the timeless ideals of Kwankwasiyya. Thank you once again for your loyalty and solidarity. The journey continues, and victory is assured by the grace of God and the will of the people,” he added.

Recall that Governor Yusuf’s defection to the APC dealt a major blow to the NNPP in Kano. Reacting to the development earlier, Kwankwaso expressed deep disappointment and described the day the governor left the party as “World Betrayal Day.”

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Director General of the South East Governorship Forum and former deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2025 Anambra election, Senator Uche Ekwunife, has declared President Bola Tinubu the strongest candidate ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting that the country is being steered in the right direction under his leadership.

Ekwunife spoke on Saturday in Awka during an APC stakeholders’ meeting held to evaluate the ongoing electronic membership registration exercise and fine-tune the party’s organisational roadmap for future elections.

She said the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms are beginning to deliver results, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of the government.

According to her, “Nigeria is in safe hands with President Bola Tinubu. He remains the most formidable candidate for the 2027 elections. His policies and economic agenda are already yielding positive results, and Nigerians should continue to support his leadership.”

Ekwunife, who served in the seventh and eighth Senate, said her experience working closely with First Lady Remi Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima gave her confidence in the integrity and capacity of the current administration.

“I had the privilege of serving in the National Assembly and working with Remi Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. They are people of character. Our party is making progress, the government is on course, and we must stand firmly behind the President,” she said.

On party affairs, Ekwunife explained that the electronic membership registration exercise is aimed at strengthening the APC’s grassroots base and improving internal organisation.

She noted that the exercise is being conducted in collaboration with ward chairmen, whom she described as key stakeholders and custodians of the party structure at the ward level.