Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Governor Ademola Adeleke may have suffered a major political setback ahead of the 2027 general election and the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, respectively, following a Federal High Court judgement ordering the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Accord Party, alongside three other political parties.

Also affected by deregistered are; Ikenga Ugochinyere and Chima Mathew Amadi from Imo state. Ikenga ugochinyere who is presently a member of the House of Reps representing the Ideato South/North Federal Constituency under Action Peoples Party (APP) while Chima Mathew Amadi of the same APP eyeing Owerri Zone senatorial seat

Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered the ruling yesterday in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the five parties for failing to meet constitutional performance thresholds.

The other political parties affected by the judgement were the Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA) and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

The plaintiff had asked the court to determine whether INEC was constitutionally obligated to deregister political parties that failed to satisfy the requirements set out in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The suit also relied on provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC regulations, which were cited as reinforcing the constitutional conditions for the registration and continued existence of political parties.

According to the National Forum of Former Legislators, the five parties had persistently failed to meet the constitutional benchmarks required to retain their registration.

The group argued that the parties neither secured the minimum electoral performance required by law nor won elective positions at the national, state or local government levels.

Under the constitutional provisions cited before the court, political parties are expected to secure at least 25 per cent of votes cast in a state during a presidential election or win at least one elective seat at the federal, state or local government level to justify their continued registration.

The plaintiff told the court that the ADC, Accord Party and the three other affected parties performed poorly in the 2023 general election and subsequent by-elections, failing to win seats across critical levels of government.

It argued that their continued existence as recognised political parties was unlawful and undermined the integrity of the country’s electoral system.

Among the reliefs sought, the plaintiff asked the court to declare that INEC was duty-bound to deregister political parties that fail to meet the constitutional requirements and to compel the electoral commission to carry out the exercise before preparations for the 2027 elections advance further.

The group also sought an order restraining the five parties from participating in elections or engaging in political activities such as campaigns, rallies and primary elections, while asking the court to prohibit INEC from recognising or dealing with them unless they fully comply with constitutional provisions.

In his judgement, Justice Lifu granted the reliefs sought and ordered INEC to deregister the five political parties.

The ruling could have significant implications for the political future of several prominent politicians ahead of the 2027 elections.

Atiku has recently won ADC presidential ticket for the as part of efforts by opposition leaders to build a coalition platform capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.

Similarly, Adeleke has won Accord Party governorship ticket in his State amid growing speculation about possible political realignments ahead of the polls.

With the court ordering the deregistration of both parties and otehrs, the political calculations of their members and prospective candidates may now face fresh uncertainty pending any appeal or further legal action.

Godswill Akpabio harbours a strong bias against him, claiming that the Senate leader is often suspicious of his activities and influence within the National Assembly.

Speaking on the Sunday edition of the Mic On Podcast, Oshiomhole described Akpabio as overly concerned with his interactions with fellow senators, adding that the Senate President would exclude him from the Senate chamber if he had the power to do so.

The former Edo State governor said he could not explain the reason behind what he described as Akpabio’s hostility, despite his longstanding role within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his contribution to President Bola Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 presidential election.

“Don’t forget that I was a founding governor of the APC and deputy director-general of Bola Tinubu’s Campaign Council that gave us victory. I’m not saying I am responsible for the victory, but I worked for it, and I’m happy we got it,” Oshiomhole said.

He continued, “He is so paranoid about anything that has to do with me. Everybody in the Senate knows that if Senator Akpabio had his way, he would lock me out of the Senate because he has misled himself into thinking that I am probably the devil he knows. There are many angels he doesn’t know.”

Oshiomhole also predicted that the next Senate would operate differently from the current one, insisting that many lawmakers were dissatisfied with Akpabio’s leadership style.

“The 11th Senate will not be like the 10th. It can’t be. Senators are grumbling about his style of leadership. But we try to manage, and I’ve tried to assure him that I am a very fulfilled person,” he stated.

According to Oshiomhole, Akpabio’s alleged bias has become widely known among senators, although he declined to speculate on the reasons behind it.

The senator further claimed that Akpabio becomes uncomfortable whenever he engages in discussions with certain lawmakers. He cited an incident involving Senator Abdulaziz Yari, alleging that the Senate President once joked that Yari’s interest in serving as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior was linked to a plot to remove him from office.

Emphasising the democratic nature of the Senate leadership structure, Oshiomhole noted that the Senate President remains accountable to fellow lawmakers because the position is determined by the collective will of senators.

“If you understand the way the Senate works, the Senate President is first among equals. Only the persons favoured by the senators are elected,” he said.

He added that leadership in the Senate is ultimately decided by majority support among lawmakers, stressing that any senator who secures the backing of colleagues can emerge as Senate President.

“Remember, if Senator Yari had got the majority, he could have become the Senate President. It is not about what anybody wishes. It is about who the senators want,” Oshiomhole said.

…Confident of President’s victory based on performance

The Renewed Hope Ambassadors has announced its decision to recruit five million canvassers to ensure that President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was reelected in 2027.

More than four million of the canvassers will work at the polling unit levels while the others will take charge of wards, local governments, and states, with the mandate to disseminate the achievements of the president.

Director General of Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA) and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma disclosed this at a retreat held in Abuja by the organisation for national mobilisation.

Addressing the participants, Uzodimma explained that the theme of the retreat, BUILDING A UNIFIED MOBILISATION ARCHITECTURE, was not a mere slogan but a practical step being taken by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to sell the Tinubu’s reforms to the grassroots.

He said 25 canvassers will take charge of each of the 176,846 polling units across Nigeria totalling 4,421,150, while others will be mobilised for the 8,809 registration areas and wards while yet another set will be responsible for the 774 local governments and 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory.

Uzodimma noted that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors were paying special attention to the polling units because they were the areas where elections were won and lost.

“The polling unit is more than a place to vote. It is where the people give power and where they can take it back. It is where opinion becomes mandate. It is where hope is renewed,” he emphasized.

He said that with the 17 Directorates of the organisation working through the Zonal, states, local governments and wards and units, it would be easier for their message to permeate to the grassroots.

He said the ward agents and the polling units canvassers are the face of the campaign because they interface directly with the citizens.

“When a citizen looks at you, what they must see is love for country, carried with discipline, humility, peace and respect for the law”, he charged them.

The Imo governor clarified between the message of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and propaganda, saying that the message was anchored on truth, reflecting the various achievements of Tinubu in the last three years.

He said that Tinubu’s administration has moved from stabilisation of Nigeria to acceleration as reflected in public finances, infrastructure, and economic reforms.

He was emphatic that the sterling performance of the president in critical areas of the economy, the removal of fuel subsidy, the merging of foreign exchange markets and building of roads, clinics and students loan fund will  easily win him reelection.

He argued that the politics of 2027 will not be won on sentiments but on performance, structure, disciplined message, credibility and on real bond with the people.

Uzodimma described the strategy of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors as one built on truth and carried with performance,  communicated with loyalty, patriotism and discipline.

He therefore urged everyone at every layer of the campaign to work hard and sell the message of performance by Tinubu to all Nigerians.

Justice Peter Odo Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to immediately deregister the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Accord Party and others from participating in the 2027 general elections over alleged constitutional breaches.

Justice Lifu issued the order on Monday while delivering judgment in a suit filed by a group of former lawmakers in the country.

By this judgment, former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the ADC Atiku Abubakar has no platform to stand for the forthcoming presidential election.

Similarly, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, billed to re-contest in the August 15 governorship election on the platform of the Accord Party has been kicked out of the race.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, was instituted by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators against INEC and the five political parties, African Democratic Congress, ADC, Action People’s Party, APP, Accord Party, AP, Zenith Labour Party, ZLP, and the Action Alliance Party, AAP.

In the judgment, Justice Lifu barred INEC from further according the parties’ recognition, accepting nominations of candidates from the affected parties or giving effect to their activities for the purpose of participating in the 2027 general elections.

In the same vein, the Judge directed the parties to stop parading themselves as registered political parties in the country.

A civil society group, the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, NFFL, had dragged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, before the court, praying for an order to compel it to deregister the five parties and prohibit them from participating in political activities in the country.

The group predicated its opposition against the existence of the parties on the alleged violations of the 1999 Constitutional provisions guiding party registration, recognition and existence.

Incidentally, the Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, though a defendant in the suit, supported those who sought the deregistration of the parties.

He had engaged a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Joshua Olukayode Olatoke, who during the hearing of the suite canvassed the prohibition of the parties out of existence.

INEC had, however, countered the suit in its defence, describing the plaintiff as a busybody who lacked locus standi (legal right) to file the suit and had asked the court to dismiss it for being unmeritorious.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/25, was targeted against INEC, the AGF as the two defendants, but by extension, the five political parties.

The originating summons was pursuant to Section 225 (A) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Section 75 (4) of the Electoral Act, 2022, and applicable provisions of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019.

At the heart of the relief sought is whether INEC is constitutionally bound to deregister political parties that failed to meet the minimum electoral performance thresholds prescribed by law.

These include securing at least 25 per cent of votes cast in one state in a presidential election, winning a local government area in a governorship election, or clinching at least one seat in elections ranging from Councillorship to the National Assembly.

The plaintiff asked the court to determine whether INEC is empowered, or indeed obligated to enforce the thresholds against the affected parties, which allegedly failed to win any ward, legislative seat, or elective office in previous elections.

Other issues they prayed for determination included whether the affected parties are still eligible to be recognised as legally registered political parties, and whether INEC can lawfully acknowledge or give effect to their political activities, such as congresses, primaries, campaigns, and participation in the 2027 general elections, without strict compliance with Section 225 (A) of the Constitution.

Among the reliefs sought are declaratory orders affirming that INEC is duty-bound to enforce constitutional benchmarks as a precondition for party registration and participation in elections, as well as orders compelling the electoral body to deregister the affected parties.

The plaintiff had also prayed for a mandatory and perpetual order of injunctions restraining INEC from recognising, accepting, or giving effect to any political activities or correspondence from the parties unless and until they fully comply with constitutional and statutory requirements.

In an affidavit in support of an originating summons deposed to by Igbokwe Raphael Nnanna, Chairman, Board of Trustees and National Coordinator of the NFFL, the group had accused INEC of neglecting its constitutional duty by continuing to recognise political parties that have failed to meet the minimum performance thresholds prescribed by the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

According to the affidavit, the affected parties have, since their registration, failed to win a single elective seat at any level of government, including presidential, governorship, National Assembly, state assembly, chairmanship or council elections.

The plaintiff had further claimed that the parties did not secure the constitutionally required 25 per cent of votes in at least one state in presidential elections, nor any representation across the country’s 8,809 wards, 774 local government areas, 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Hon. Nnanna had averred that despite these “total electoral failures,” INEC has continued to accord the parties full recognition, an action the group described as unconstitutional and contrary to the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, 2022.

The plaintiff had warned that unless restrained by the court, INEC may unlawfully permit the affected parties to participate in the 2027 general elections, thereby “clogging the ballot papers, overstretching administrative resources and misleading voters.” The former lawmakers had argued that the continued existence of non-performing parties undermines political sanity, electoral integrity and genuine competition, while also resulting in wastage of public funds.

Describing the action as a public interest suit, the NFFL had urged the court to compel INEC to enforce constitutional compliance by deregistering political parties that have failed to meet the stipulated thresholds, in order to deepen democracy and uphold the rule of law ahead of future elections.

Yakubu Abdullahi Ruba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, supported by Barrister Gbenga Makanjuola, argued for the former lawmakers during proceedings, asking that the five political parties be proscribed out of existence.

However, Musibau Adetunmibi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN and Shuaib Eneojo Aruwa SAN had argued for the Accord Party and African Democratic Congress respectively in urging the Court to dismiss the suit of the plaintiff

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially named former Minister of Transportation and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the party’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 presidential election.

The announcement means Amaechi will run alongside former vice president Atiku Abubakar, on the ADC ticket in the next general elections.

In a statement issued on Monday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi on its official X page, the ADC said Amaechi’s emergence followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders across the country.

According to the party, the decision came after the conclusion of its presidential primary election, where Amaechi finished as runner-up.

“The National Leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is proud to announce that the Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has been selected as the Vice-Presidential Candidate of our great party for the 2027 Presidential Election,” the statement said.

The party described the Atiku-Amaechi partnership as a combination of “two tested statesmen” with the experience and national appeal required to address Nigeria’s challenges.

“The proposed partnership between His Excellency Atiku Abubakar and Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi represents more than a political alliance; it is the coming together of two tested statesmen with the experience, national reach, and leadership capacity required to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges,” the statement added.

Highlighting Amaechi’s credentials, the party noted that he had served in key legislative and executive positions, including Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term governor of Rivers State and Minister of Transportation.

“Few political leaders in Nigeria today possess such extensive and balanced experience across both the legislative and executive arms of government”, the statement noted.

The ADC further argued that Amaechi’s influence in the South-South and other parts of Southern Nigeria would strengthen the presidential ticket and help broaden its national appeal.  “Together, Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi embody a truly national ticket—one that bridges regions, generations, and political traditions.

“The ADC is prepared to govern, prepared to unite the nation, and prepared to deliver results.” The opposition party expressed confidence that the alliance would boost its coalition ahead of the 2027 election and offer Nigerians what it described as a credible alternative focused on economic recovery, security, job creation and national unity.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has said former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was among political leaders who supported the adoption of rotational presidency in Nigeria following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

According to the SGF, the annulment of the June 12 election, won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola, prompted political leaders to take difficult decisions aimed at preserving national unity and strengthening democracy.

A statement by his Media Aide, Yomi Odunuga, said Akume made the clarification yesterday while responding to questions at a World Press Conference in Abuja as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day anniversary.

He recalled that leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), met in Kaduna under the leadership of the late Chief Solomon Lar and Alhaji Adamu Ciroma to deliberate on the country’s political future, with the issue of power rotation featuring prominently.

“It was a tough argument before the issue of rotational presidency was agreed on. At the end, we had to concede. We must do this. June 12 annulment had complicated the whole thing. It was finally agreed that we’ll be alternating between North and South.

“Atiku was one of the leaders at that meeting, which was convened by Chief Solomon Lar. He was part of that agreement,” he was quoted as saying.

Akume explained that the decision to alternate presidential power between the North and South was designed to address the political consequences of the annulled election and promote inclusiveness and national cohesion.

Reflecting on the significance of June 12, the SGF described the annulment as a painful setback to the democratic aspirations of Nigerians.

“Abiola won that election round and square. That election was annulled by the military government. It was very painful because the people spoke, and they spoke freely. They made their own choice,” he said.

According to him, one of the major lessons from the June 12 experience is the supremacy of the people’s will in a democratic system.

“The first lesson is that the voice of the people must always be supreme; it must be sacrosanct. That’s the beauty of democracy. We prefer the ballot to bullets,” he stated.

Akume expressed confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission, saying the country had learned from the events of 1993 and would never allow a repeat of such an annulment.

“If an election is conducted very fairly, and one wins, no problem. The actors at the Independent National Electoral Commission are not young people; they were adults when this thing happened.

“If we were to take a poll at that time, over two-thirds of Nigerians would have condemned that act of annulment,” he said.

The SGF further commended INEC officials, describing them as men and women of integrity committed to protecting the nation’s democratic process.

“Fortunately for us, those at INEC are men of honour and integrity. They are well-read, patriotic Nigerians, and they are determined to make a difference. Never again would such happen in this country.

“You win, you win. When you lose, go back and prepare for another election. Look at the American example. President Trump lost to Joe Biden. He didn’t bring America down. He went back, prepared and came back and won. That’s the beauty of democracy,” Akume said.

He noted that Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule reflected the country’s commitment to democratic governance and freedom.

“We have decided to embrace democracy. That is why, for 27 unbroken years, we are enjoying this freedom in a democratic setting. We love the values and the morals of democracy, and there is no system that is as beautiful as democracy,” he said.

Akume also highlighted freedom of expression as one of the key benefits of democratic rule.

“It is under a democratic system that you can insult your president and insult anybody and still go to bed, and you don’t receive a midnight knock on your door. Try it under a totalitarian regime,” he stated.

The SGF urged political actors to embrace democratic principles, respect electoral outcomes and continue to strengthen the nation’s democratic culture.

He added that Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democracy underscored its commitment to the rule of law, freedom of expression and peaceful political participation.

Akume’s remarks come amid ongoing political debates over power rotation ahead of the 2027 general election. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a northerner and the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress for the 2027 election, is expected to challenge incumbent President Bola Tinubu, who is seeking a second term in office.

Tinubu, a southerner, was elected president in 2023 following the completion of the constitutionally permitted two-term tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, a northerner.

The Federal Government has insisted that President Bola Tinubu is committed to building a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris stated this on yesterday in Abuja at a press conference as part of the activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day.

“This year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration. It offers an opportunity to take stock of our progress as a nation, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and reaffirm our collective commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria,” he said.

Idris posited that Democracy Day remains a significant occasion for reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, celebrating the resilience of democratic institutions, and honouring the sacrifices of patriots who fought to entrench democratic governance in the country.

“Democracy Day occupies a unique place in our national calendar. It provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our democratic journey, celebrate the resilience of our institutions, and honour the sacrifices of patriots who stood firm in the struggle for democratic governance,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale, MKO, Abiola and other heroes of democracy whose sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today. He also acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and numerous pro-democracy activists who played pivotal roles in the struggle to restore and consolidate democratic governance in Nigeria.

He described Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule as a remarkable national achievement and a testament to the resilience, determination and democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people.

“Twenty-seven years of uninterrupted democratic governance is a milestone worthy of celebration. It is a testament to the determination of Nigerians to uphold democratic values, strengthen national institutions, and continuously strive for a more prosperous and united nation,” he stated.

The minister noted that this year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration, providing an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the nation’s progress, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and renew their collective commitment to national development.

According to Idris, the administration remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting national unity, expanding economic opportunities, and delivering sustainable development for all Nigerians through the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He stated that the press conference was organised to provide Nigerians and the international community with an overview of the administration’s journey over the past three years, highlighting key milestones, challenges encountered, and the vision guiding government policies and programmes.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, George Akume, and Chairman of the Interministerial Committee for Democracy Day 2026, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, described Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance as a major national achievement and a testament to the resilience of the Nigerian people and democratic institutions.

Akume stated that President Tinubu’s administration has remained focused on delivering tangible benefits to Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that reforms in key sectors of the economy are already yielding measurable results.

“The policy decisions of this administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange reforms, were difficult but necessary. They have created fiscal space for critical investments in infrastructure, social interventions, education, healthcare, and economic development. As revenues improve and the economy stabilises, Nigerians will increasingly experience the benefits of these reforms,” the SGF said.

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has dismissed reports of the exclusion of of its members as candidates for the 2027 election by the Kano State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, (NDC).

Spokesperson for the group, Habibu Mohammed, made this rebuttal yesterday in an interview on Trust TV.

Mohammed said no candidates, including those from the Kwankwasiyya Movement and other groups, complained of exclusion.

“When there is contestation, naturally there are going to be a lot of issues with certain people that might not actually find their ways, but I believe that a process was built where consensus candidate emerged across the state, and within that particular process, there were never a candidate from anywhere that have complained of any kind of exclusion.

“All candidates, including those from the Kwankwasiyya Movement, and those who recently come from other political parties, partook into that process.

“We are seeing how other candidates that recently joined the party were part of the consensus, and the real aim is to actually ensure that candidates that have the capacity to win election, bring in votes and help the party develop are the ones that have emerged through that particular process.

“Until the end of the process, there were never any complaint from anybody, and to us, we believe that we have complied both with the party guidelines and at the same time with that of the INEC,” he said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), has warned that recent court rulings affecting aspects of its timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election could disrupt preparations for the polls if not urgently clarified by appellate courts.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, raised the concerns yesterday during the Commission’s second quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja.

Amupitan disclosed that the Commission had already filed appeals against two judgments of the Federal High Court which questioned certain timelines contained in INEC’s timetable for the 2027 elections.

According to him, while the Commission respects the decisions of the courts, the judgments raise significant legal questions regarding the extent of INEC’s constitutional and statutory powers to coordinate and regulate electoral activities.

The Federal High Court in Abuja had delivered two major rulings invalidating key compressed timelines in the 2027 general election timetable released by INEC.

The courts ruled that while INEC has the constitutional authority to issue and adjust election schedules, it cannot use administrative guidelines to shorten or override statutory windows guaranteed to political parties by the Electoral Act 2026

But Amupitan explained that in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2026, Youth Party v. INEC, delivered on May 20, 2026, the court questioned some timelines contained in the Commission’s timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election.

He added that in a subsequent judgment delivered on May 26, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/720/2026, Social Democratic Party (SDP) v. INEC, the court affirmed the Commission’s authority to issue an electoral timetable but nullified certain timelines relating to the nomination and substitution of candidates.

“In view of the differing conclusions reached in the judgments and in order to ensure certainty and stability in preparations for the 2027 General Election, the Commission has filed appeals against the decisions and has taken the necessary legal steps to obtain authoritative pronouncements from the appellate courts,” Amupitan said.

The INEC chairman maintained that the activities contained in the Commission’s timetable are interrelated operational processes designed to guarantee the orderly, transparent and successful conduct of elections.

He noted that while the Electoral Act prescribes timelines for certain electoral activities, several other critical processes are not expressly provided for in the law but must be accommodated within the overall electoral- calendar.

According to him, these include the submission and verification of party membership registers, monitoring of party primaries across the federation, uploading the names of winners of monitored primaries on the Commission’s designated portal, candidate nominations, printing of ballot papers and result sheets, training of election personnel, voter education programmes and the deployment of election materials.

“The absence of coordinated timelines for such activities would create uncertainty, disrupt election planning and undermine the Commission’s constitutional responsibility to organise, undertake and supervise elections in an efficient and credible manner,” he said.

Amupitan argued that environmental and logistical factors, including weather conditions, terrain, procurement of sensitive materials and configuration of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, require careful scheduling and coordination.

“The Commission therefore, considers it imperative that all electoral activities be harmonised within a coherent and workable framework that promotes certainty, transparency, administrative efficiency and equal treatment of all political parties,” he added.

Despite the legal challenge, the INEC chairman assured political parties and the Nigerian public that the Commission remained committed to conducting the 2027 General Election in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act and all lawful judicial pronouncements.

Speaking, National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, (IPAC), Dr. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, said the exclusion of indirect primaries from Nigeria’s electoral framework contributed significantly to disputes, tensions and administrative challenges experienced by political parties during their just-concluded primaries for the 2027 general election.

Dantalle said the implementation of Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026, which limited political parties to consensus or direct primaries, created operational difficulties for parties and triggered avoidable internal conflicts.

According to him, the absence of indirect primaries removed a flexible option that previously allowed parties to manage internal competition and reduce tensions among aspirants.

“The experience of the just-concluded nomination exercise demonstrates that the removal of indirect primaries created considerable constraints for political parties,” he said.

He explained that many political parties were forced to adopt consensus arrangements despite having multiple aspirants who had already obtained nomination forms and expressed interest in contesting elections.

Dantalle noted that in several cases, aspirants were persuaded or in some instances pressured to step down after party leaders had already aligned behind preferred candidates, leading to dissatisfaction and subsequent legal disputes.

He said while some aspirants accepted the outcomes in the interest of party unity, others challenged their exclusion, arguing that genuine consensus must be voluntary and inclusive.

According to him, in some cases, parties limited access to nomination forms or failed to adequately publicise primary election schedules, steps he said were taken to avoid the complications associated with direct primaries.

Dantalle said these developments reflected unintended consequences of the current legal framework governing party nominations.

He urged the National Assembly to urgently review the Electoral Act 2026 to restore flexibility in the conduct of party primaries and strengthen internal democracy within political parties.

The IPAC chairman further expressed concern over the tight timeline given to parties to submit updated membership registers, including National Identification Number, NIN, saying some genuine members were excluded due to logistical challenges.

He said IPAC had earlier warned about the implications of certain provisions of the Electoral Act during its February 2026 General Assembly in Abuja, where it urged lawmakers to reconsider the ban on indirect primaries.

Dantalle said recent developments had validated those earlier concerns and called for urgent reforms to the electoral legal framework.

He claimed that in certain instances, parties restricted access to nomination forms or did not sufficiently publicize primary election schedules, actions he asserted were taken to circumvent the complications linked to direct primaries.

Dantalle indicated that these occurrences represented unintended outcomes of the existing legal structure governing party nominations.

He called upon the National Assembly to promptly reassess the Electoral Act 2026 to reinstate flexibility in the execution of party primaries and enhance internal democracy within political parties.

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

A House of Representatives aspirant on the platform of the National Democratic Congress, NDC, Mrs. Nkasiobi Madumere, has raised an alarm over alleged discrimination by officials during the primaries. She attributed her exclusion from the count to her gender.

Speaking with newsmen in Umuahia, Madumere alleged that she was deliberately excluded from the counting process despite being duly cleared to participate in the exercise.

She revealed that she was the only female contender in the race. She expressed disappointment over what she described as unfair treatment and gender-based discrimination during the primaries.

The aspirant hinted that she joined the contest after receiving overwhelming support and encouragement from party members who believed in her vision for effective representation and good governance.

Madumere reiterated that after buying her nomination form, she successfully underwent screening and was cleared by the party to contest. She added that she mobilised supporters across her constituency. She said the conduct of the exercise was, however, marred by irregularities, including late communication of venues, delays in the arrival of party officials, and multiple changes of election locations.

She regretted that the delayed arrival of party and election officials caused many of her supporters to leave before voting commenced. She added that she was physically present throughout the exercise at the Umuahia South LGA venue, Olokoro Primary School, unlike some other aspirants who were represented by agents.

“However, when it got to my turn, the delegates allegedly turned away without counting me or my supporters. I see it as a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise me, while supporters of my male counterpart were counted,” she said.

She also alleged that similar incidents occurred in Umuahia North and Ikwuano Local Government Areas, insisting that her supporters across the constituency were excluded from the process.

Madumere disclosed that she had submitted petitions to the party’s Appeal Committee, the National Chairman, and other relevant organs of the party, seeking redress over the outcome of the exercise. She called on the leadership of the party to investigate the conduct of the primaries in Abia State, alleging that several irregularities undermined the credibility of the exercise.

She said: “Restoring confidence in the party’s internal democratic processes will require a thorough review of the actions of officials involved in organising the primaries. I am calling for justice and fairness for all aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections. Women should not be discouraged from seeking elective positions through actions that undermine confidence in the democratic process.”

Reacting to the allegation, the Abia State Secretary of the NDC, Mr. Kanu Dike, appealed for calm among party members and urged them to allow the party’s internal mechanisms to address grievances arising from the primaries.

The State Secretary maintained that the party’s Appeal Panel and the National Executive Committee are already considering petitions submitted following the recently concluded primaries.

He assured that the party leadership will announce its decisions after reviewing all valid complaints brought before it.

The Kwankwasiyya movement has distanced Peter Obi from claims that he oppressed northerners during his time as governor.

Speaking with DAILY POST, the movement’s spokesman, Captain Mansur Kurugu, said the claims are false and constitute propaganda targeted at the Obi movement.

He insisted that the opposition is manipulating public ignorance to peddle false narratives about the presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 polls.

“All these sayings that Peter Obi degraded the northerners, this is not true. The one who did that is with the APC now. We are alive when northerners were degraded in Benue, Oyo, Mile 12. Who did you hear amongst these men speak out on his?” he added.

Kurugu insisted that these are attempts by the opposition to rubbish the Obi movement, adding that they are unable to properly showcase the achievements of their candidates.

The spokesman said these attempts would not hold ground as the Kwankwasiyya movement is backed by the people.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir Lawal, has revealed how some Northerners plotted his removal from the office under former president Muhammadu Buhari.

In a post on his Facebook page late Saturday, Lawal said his close relationship with Buhari annoyed so many people who were beginning to fear the late former president was grooming him for something higher.

He said the contract to get him out was awarded to some Northern Senators who proceeded to subcontract the assignment to their very well-known legislative hatchet men.

According to him, the legislative hatchet men recruited some sympathizers and collaborators in the executive branch of government and in the press.

He added that Buhari would not listen to the high powered delegation they sent to him in this regard, stressing that they had to get him out of the seat of the very powerful SGF at all costs.

“They did all manners of things to make sure that I was removed. They felt that Buhari had no business appointing me because I was from the small tribe of Kilba and a Christian.

“I will save them the shame by not naming them here because the main contractor himself later apologized to me in the presence of three of our common friends.

“As a good christian that I strive to be, I forgave him right there at the meeting and it has remained so ever since,” Lawal said.

Recall that Lawal was removed as SGF during the first tenure of late President Buhari.

The battle for the Minority Leadership of the House of Representatives has taken a fresh turn as acting minority leader, George Ozodinobi, dismissed the reported bid by the member representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency of Imo State, Ikenga Ugochinyere, describing the move as “a joke taken too far.”

The controversy follows reports that no fewer than 61 lawmakers had endorsed Ugochinyere for the position following the resignation of former Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda.

Chinda formally stepped down during plenary last week after securing the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC),for the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.

His resignation created a vacuum in the minority leadership structure and triggered a fresh contest among opposition lawmakers.

Prior to Chinda’s resignation, Ozodinobi, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and acting minority leader, had been performing the functions of the office and was widely considered a leading contender for the substantive position.

Speaking with Our correspondent in Abuja, Ozodinobi argued that parliamentary tradition does not support the aspiration of a first-term lawmaker to a principal office in the House.

He said, “We have a tradition in our House Rules that a first timer cannot constitute a nuisance to the extent of aspiring for a principal office of the House. This is a joke taken too far.”

The lawmaker, however, insisted that he was not desperate to succeed Chinda.

“For me, I am not overly ambitious,” he stated.

The latest development comes amid growing divisions within the minority caucus over the process of selecting a replacement for Chinda.

While supporters of Ugochinyere have claimed majority backing among opposition lawmakers, questions have emerged over the authenticity of some endorsements contained in the nomination documents submitted on his behalf.

One of those questioning the process is the Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, who has publicly disowned the use of his signature in support of Ugochinyere’s nomination.

On Friday, Agbese said his signature had been used without his authorisation for a purpose entirely different from what he had agreed to.

The Benue lawmaker disclosed that he raised the matter on the floor of the House during plenary on Thursday under Order 6 Rule 2, expressing concern over what he described as the misuse of his signature and subsequent attempts to justify the action.

According to him, he signed a document in the company of Ugochinyere and another lawmaker under the impression that it related to a proposal seeking equitable distribution of principal offices among minority parties.

In a statement he sent to our correspondent, Agbese said, “For the avoidance of doubt, I signed a document with Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere and another colleague concerning a proposal that sought equitable sharing of principal positions among minority parties in the House.

“At no time was I informed, nor did I consent, that the said document would be converted into or used as a nomination form for Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere as Minority Leader.”

He maintained that his support was limited strictly to the principle of inclusiveness among opposition parties and not to the endorsement of any individual.

“My support was solely for fairness, inclusion, and justice among the minority caucuses, not for the endorsement of any individual for any leadership position,” he said.

Describing the alleged conversion of the document into a nomination form as a serious breach of trust, Agbese added: “The subsequent use of my signature to support a nomination I neither approved nor endorsed constitutes a gross misrepresentation and a clear case of forgery.”

He further denied signing any nomination form in support of Ugochinyere and challenged anyone in possession of such a document to subject it to forensic scrutiny.

“I challenge anyone in possession of such a document to submit it for forensic analysis. The truth must prevail,” he added.

The lawmaker also revealed that he had petitioned the relevant authorities and expressed confidence that a thorough investigation would establish the facts.

“This matter has already been formally reported to the appropriate authorities for investigation, and I have full confidence in the institutions responsible for uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability,” he said.

Agbese urged members of the public and political stakeholders to disregard claims that he had endorsed Ugochinyere’s bid for the minority leadership.

“I urge the public, my constituents, and all stakeholders to disregard any false narrative suggesting that I endorsed Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader. Such claims are entirely untrue and misleading.”

He added that his actions were guided by integrity and respect for due process.

“As a legislator and public servant, I remain committed to integrity, transparency, and the rule of law. Public trust is sacred and must never be undermined through deceit or manipulation.

“I appreciate the support and understanding of Nigerians and assure them that I will continue to stand for what is right, just, and in the best interest of democratic governance,” he said.

The unfolding dispute has exposed fresh fault lines within the opposition caucus in the House, with competing interests and questions over procedure threatening to complicate the process of choosing a new Minority Leader.

The position is one of the principal offices in the House and traditionally serves as the voice of opposition parties in the Green Chamber.

The National Working Committee (NWC,) of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), has concluded review of the report of the primaries appeal committee and approved the report.

Consequently, former governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, was validly elected as the party’s presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.

National publicity secretary of the PRP, Muhammed Ishaq, said in a statement that the primaries appeal committee also upheld other primary election outcomes and duly cleared the candidates to contest in the upcoming elections.

“The primaries appeal committee also upheld four other primary election outcomes. All other candidates have been duly cleared to contest in the upcoming elections, with the exception of Tarauni Federal Constituency, whose election has been nullified. In line with our commitment to active participation in the electoral process, the PRP is proud to field a total of 420 candidates across all positions in the 2027 general elections. We remain committed to principles of internal democracy and service and to delivering a credible and transformative leadership for Nigeria,” the party said.

President Bola Tinubu has approved a minor reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council, removing the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, from their cabinet positions.

A statement issued yesterday by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, said the development was contained in a memo signed by the

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

According to the memo, Taiwo Oyedele has been appointed as the new Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

Also appointed is Dr. Muttaqha Darma as Minister-designate for Housing and Urban Development.

The memo directed the outgoing ministers to complete handover processes to their respective successors or supervising officials.

It stated that all handing over and taking over activities must be concluded on or before the close of business tomorrow Thursday, 23rd April, 2026.

Explaining the decision, Akume said the changes were aimed at improving coordination and strengthening delivery across key sectors of the economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Akume stated.

He added that President Tinubu acted in line with his constitutional powers as provided under Sections 147 and 148 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The SGF also conveyed the President’s appreciation to the outgoing ministers for their service to the nation and wished them well in their future endeavours, noting that the process of cabinet reinvigoration would remain continuous.

The statement further noted that Taiwo Oyedele was appointed as Minister of State for Finance in March 2026, while Edun was among the ministers appointed on August 16, 2023.

Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, (APC), are influencing the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), ahead of the 2027 polls.

Speaking to journalists yesterday as plenary resumed after the Easter break, Kalu said INEC operates independently under the chairmanship of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, without interference from any arm of government.

The Abia North senator described the opposition’s allegation, pushed mainly by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as frivolous and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic process.

“The APC as a party has nothing to do with INEC. INEC is an independent body, and we have a lot of respect for the chairman of INEC. He is an erudite Professor of Law.

“So, let us stop this frivolity. People should take the electoral process and democracy seriously instead of de-marketing the country,” he said.

Kalu, a former Senate Chief Whip, also rejected suggestions that the ruling party is coercing governors and other politicians to defect to the APC, saying that party membership remains a matter of personal choice and negotiation.

“President Tinubu has never begged anybody to leave his party or to join our party. If a governor decides to join the APC, that is his business.

“When you come, we negotiate; if it is good, you stay; if not, you go your way. Nobody is forcing anybody,” he explained.

He urged political actors to strengthen democratic institutions and offer credible policy alternatives rather than “unproductive criticism.”

Kalu further dismissed claims that the South East is marginalised under the APC government, arguing that both the late President Muhammadu Buhari and President Tinubu have contributed to national development, including in the South East.

“Every President has something to add. Buhari has contributed his quota, Tinubu is contributing his quota. We are getting what we are supposed to get… maybe even more today. That does not mean Buhari did not do well,” he said.

Assessing Tinubu’s reform agenda, he said macroeconomic indicators show progress, but challenges persist at the grassroots due to insecurity and sabotage.

“The upper end of the reform is working… investors are coming in. But the lower end has problems because of insecurity and sabotage. Reforms take time; they don’t happen in one day,” he added, citing long-term reform paths in China and Singapore.

Kalu expressed confidence in Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027, describing the opposition as weak and lacking viable alternatives.

“I don’t think anybody will defeat President Tinubu in a free and fair election. APC is like a moving train. Even in places that were not APC before, people are joining. We are rocking like a hurricane,” he declared.

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, (LP), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as growing attempts to stifle press freedom in Nigeria.

Obi spoke in a post shared on his official X page yesterday.

According to him, the recent notice issued by the National Broadcasting Commission, (NBC), raises serious concerns about the state of democratic institutions.

Obi said a free and responsible media should not be seen as an enemy, stressing that the press plays a key role in holding leaders accountable.

“The media is the conscience of the nation,” he said, warning that any attempt to silence or intimidate journalists under the guise of regulation could weaken democracy.

He added that institutions are meant to serve the people and not the government, noting that actions perceived as limiting freedom of expression could undermine public trust.

The former governor also pointed to rising insecurity, economic challenges and growing frustration among citizens, saying attention should be focused on addressing these issues rather than controlling narratives.

Obi further stated that Nigeria needs stronger institutions and not tighter control, as he expressed support for media organisations and broadcasters.

The venue scheduled for the national convention of a faction of the African Democratic Congress, (ADC), led by Nafiu Bala, was deserted yesterday, with no sign of delegates or party officials.

The convention was expected to hold at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, but the facility remained empty at the scheduled commencement time.

A correspondent who monitored via Facebook, reported from the venue that there were no preparations or activities underway, while key sections of the complex, including the velodrome, were locked.

The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, with parallel claims to the party’s leadership by Bala and another faction led by former Senate President, David Mark.

Bala’s faction had fixed April 21, 2026, for its convention, days after rejecting the April 14 convention organised by the rival group, describing it as a violation of a subsisting court judgment.

He had also questioned the legitimacy of the earlier convention, citing the absence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), which he said indicated a lack of official recognition.

The dispute has since escalated, with both factions laying claim to the party’s leadership and legitimacy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The matter is currently before the Federal High Court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, following INEC’s refusal to recognise Bala as acting national chairman.

As of the time of filing this report, there was no official explanation from Bala’s faction for the absence of activities at the convention venue.

The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, has, in a unanimous judgement delivered by a three-member panel of Justices, dismissed the appeal filed by Barrister Julius Abure challenging the leadership of the Labour Party.

On 21st January 2026, Hon. Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, reaffirmed the earlier judgment of the Supreme Court that removed Barr. Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to recognise Senator Nenadi Usman as the legitimate leader of the party, to the exclusion of all others.

Dissatisfied with that decision, Barr. Abure approached the Court of Appeal in suit No. CA/ABJ/CV/255/2026 – Barr. Julius Abure & Anor v. Sen. Nenadi Esther Usman & 3 Ors – seeking to overturn the judgment of the lower court.

In the lead judgment delivered by Justice Oyejoju Oyewumi, with Justices A. B. Mohammed and Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike concurring, the appellate court affirmed the decision of the Federal High Court.

The court held that the Supreme Court had, on 4th April 2025, conclusively settled the leadership dispute within the Labour Party when it nullified the convention that purportedly returned Barr. Abure as National Chairman.

The appellate court agreed with the trial court that the court below had the powers under Section 251 of the Constitution to compel a statutory Federal Government agency to perform its functions when it ordered INEC to recognise Senator Nenadi Usman as the National Chairman of the Labour Party.

The appellate court also agreed with the trial court that the constitution of the Caretaker Committee of the Labour Party, headed by Usman, was a doctrine of necessity needed to provide leadership in the party when there appeared to be a vacuum.

The Justices strongly criticised Barr. Abure for abuse of court process and for engaging in forum shopping at a Nasarawa State High Court on a matter already decided by the Supreme Court, and for persisting in laying claim to the leadership of the party despite the clear and unambiguous pronouncement of the apex court.

The court further held that the appeal was devoid of merit and constituted an abuse of court process.

Consequently, the court, while dismissing the appeal by Barr. Abure, imposed a cost of ten million naira against him for wasting judicial time on a matter that had already been conclusively determined.

Reacting to the judgment, the Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, described the ruling as a victory for democracy and the rule of law. She commended the judiciary for its courage and steadfastness in upholding justice despite attempts by certain elements to undermine its integrity.

Senator Usman also expressed gratitude to party faithful and supporters across the country for their patience, loyalty, and unwavering commitment during the period of uncertainty.

She urged all stakeholders to remain focused on the party’s forthcoming congresses and national convention.

The party further appreciated members of the media for their professionalism and objective reporting and called on Nigerians to continue to place their trust in the Labour Party as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.