The Allied People’s Movement (APM) confirmed yesterday that it had successfully uploaded the details of Oyo State Governor, Mr Seyi Makinde, to the platform of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 elections as its presidential candidate.

The party said Makinde’s “growing popularity” had positioned him as a strong contender for the nation’s highest office as political parties prepared for the race.

INEC had initially set July 11 as the deadline for political parties to upload the names of their presidential and National Assembly candidates to its portal but later extended it to July 14.

The National Publicity Secretary of the APM, Mr Abubakar Yusuf, told reporters in Abuja on Monday that the party met the deadline and successfully uploaded the names of Makinde, his running mate and its National Assembly candidates.

According to him, the party has continued to gain momentum among Nigerians, especially following the entry of Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, and Makinde into its fold, adding that the APM is determined to win the 2027 presidential election.

Yusuf said: “We have uploaded the details of our presidential, vice-presidential and National Assembly candidates as required by INEC. This marks another important milestone in our journey towards offering Nigerians a credible, competent and people-oriented alternative in the 2027 general elections.

“Our confidence is rooted in our continuous engagement with Nigerians and the array of highly credible candidates we are fielding at all levels.

“The APM is proud of the quality of leaders flying its flag across the country. Our candidates are men and women of proven character, integrity and outstanding performance in their respective fields. They embody the values of accountability, service and purposeful leadership that Nigerians have consistently demanded.

“Across the country, citizens have expressed deep concerns about the rising cost of living, widespread insecurity, unemployment and declining economic opportunities. These are genuine concerns that require practical solutions and compassionate leadership, which only the APM can offer.

“With an APM-led administration and Makinde at the helm, the welfare of Nigerians will be at the centre of government policies.

“We have a presidential candidate who not only has the commitment but also the leadership capacity and competence to secure our nation, rebuild the economy and ensure that every Nigerian enjoys the dividends of good governance.

“Our presidential candidate stands out as a leader whose record speaks for itself. Without argument, his achievements have earned him national recognition as one of Nigeria’s best-performing governors, and that is why Nigerians want him as President.

“We all know that Governor Makinde has earned a reputation for the prudent management of public resources and responsible governance. These principles will guide an APM government at the federal level.

“Beyond his impressive performance in office, Governor Makinde represents a new generation of leadership. He combines experience with relative youth, energy, vision and the capacity to unite Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious divides. We firmly believe he possesses the competence, character and courage required to reposition Nigeria and restore confidence in governance.”

Citing the case of Governor Bala Mohammed, who is one of the party’s senatorial candidates, Yusuf noted that his wealth of experience would be an asset to the APM.

He added: “In Bauchi State, Governor Bala Mohammed, our senatorial candidate, brings a wealth of experience and leadership that will further strengthen the party’s vision of effective representation and national development.

“Together with our other candidates, he will play a vital role in advancing the APM’s mission of delivering responsible governance.”

He criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government, saying it had been unable to address the country’s worsening security and economic challenges.

Yusuf said: “The failures of the APC administration have made it clear that Nigeria needs a new direction anchored on competence, accountability and people-centred leadership, which only the APM can offer Nigerians.”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) yesterday said it has begun challenging the Court of Appeal’s judgment at the Supreme Court regarding its ward, local government and state congresses, insisting that the ruling has no effect on the emergence of its candidates for the 2027 general election.

In a statement following the appellate court’s judgment in Abuja, the party’s national publicity secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the verdict as “legally unsustainable” and said the party was confident the apex court would overturn it.

The ADC maintained that the judgment relates solely to the election of its ward, local government and state executive committees and does not invalidate the direct primaries through which its candidates emerged at all levels.

The party also drew attention to the dissenting judgment delivered by the presiding Justice, arguing that it more accurately reflected the settled position of the law and the party’s case.

The opposition party urged its members and supporters across the country to remain calm and focused despite the court ruling.

The Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), an elite assembly of Southeastern Nigerian intellectuals, traditional rulers and stakeholders, have condemned what it calls the systematic suppression of the opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that no democracy develops without a vibrant opposition.

ILT cautioned that if the clampdown on the opposition is not urgently checked, it could seriously diminish the integrity of the 2027 general elections.

The group’s position came amid the recent alarm raised by the presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr. Peter Obi, over his safety and systematic frustration of his businesses, as well as the several judicial pronouncements against the key opposition parties aimed at destabilizing their preparations for the 2027 polls.

ILT also recalled that Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, had in the past warned Mr. Peter Obi, threatening that his security was not guaranteed in his state, and noted that actually when he visited Edo State early this year for  political activities, gunshots were fired at him and others in his  entourage.

According to the group, the emasculation of the opposition could wreck Nigeria’s hard fought democracy and cause serious political instability in the country.

ILT, in a statement signed by Prof. Elochukwu Amucheazi, the President and Prof. Jerry Chukwuokolo, the Secretary, also frowned at the use of state institutions, including the judiciary, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to incapacitate the opposition parties, to make them unable to compete with the ruling party for the 2027 general elections.

“The democracy we are enjoying in Nigeria did not come on a platter of gold. It is a product of a long-drawn political struggle against military rule. Ironically, those in power in Nigeria today, who do not want the opposition to breathe, pride themselves as key players in the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria. The same people who claim to be champions of democracy are emasculating the opposition”, the group noted.

“The Igbo Leaders of Thought strongly condemns the ongoing suppression of opposition in Nigeria. If not curbed, it could derail plans for the 2027 general election, cause serious political instability, and derail our hard on democracy. Nigeria cannot afford another major political crisis arising from election. The country suffered dearly because of the mistakes of past elections.

“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat the mistakes” ILT warned, and remained Nigerians of the violent political protest (Operation Wetie) that took place in 1962 in Western Nigeria which triggered a chain of events, including bloodletting and burning of properties, which eventually led to the first military coup in Nigeria on January 15, 1966.

“In the Second Republic, a disputed governorship election triggered a devastating political upheaval in Ondo State, resulting in widespread burning of properties and loss of severally lives, ultimately paving the way for another military intervention in 1983.

“If we cannot remember what happened in the First and Second Republics, we should be able to remember the political violence that trailed the 2011 presidential election, which according to Human Rights Watch, claimed over 800 lives in Northern Nigeria, including innocent youth corps members. We are not in any way trying to engage in scare mongering, but just appealing to those in authority in Nigeria to do what is right.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has narrated how he unknowingly met with the Director-General of the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, Adeniyi Adeyemi.

The Abia State-born politician stated that he met with Adeyemi in his office after receiving what appeared to be an official letter bearing the Presidency’s insignia.

Speaking during yesterday’s plenary in support of a motion seeking an investigation into the activities of the alleged council, Kalu said he was among those deceived by the group’s claims of legitimacy.

“I rise this morning to support the motion that has been properly moved by my friend and brother from Plateau State. It is quite embarrassing that people have the kind of boldness exhibited, moving around with what is not in existence, carrying themselves as if they are a legal entity,” he said.

Kalu disclosed that his office received a letter dated May 2, 2025, on a letterhead bearing the Presidency and identifying the sender as the Director-General of both the Presidential Economic Advisory Council and the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council.

“On the 2nd of May, 2025, my office got a letter. That letter had the Presidency on top of the letterhead. It had the Office of the Director General, the Presidential Economic Advisory Council and the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council. Two councils under one DG,” he said.

According to him, although some aspects of the letter raised doubts, it contained what appeared to be authentic details, including an address at the Federal Secretariat Complex and a government website.

“When I saw this, I looked down at the letterhead. I saw the Federal Secretariat Complex, Phase 3, 2nd Floor, Central Business District. I also saw the website, pfipc.gov.ng. It was a bit confusing for me. Some of the information looked credible, some did not,” Kalu stated.

The deputy speaker stated that he directed members of his team to verify the office address before approving a meeting with the group.

“I sent my team to go and verify the existence of this organisation at the said address. They came back confirming that this organisation was in the said location. I then gave approval for them to come and have the interaction they had written for,” he said.

Kalu explained that the visitors had requested a meeting to discuss constitutional amendment, economic governance, legislative priorities and collaboration on foreign investment, but the discussion took a different direction.

“They said they wanted to discuss the 10th House of Representatives Constitution Amendment process and its implications for economic governance, legislative priorities that can enhance investor confidence, and areas of collaboration between the National Assembly and the Council to drive foreign investment,” he said.

However, he added, “When they came and started engaging, the issues they mentioned in the letter were not what they engaged on. They did not talk about the Constitution that we were amending. They were more about photo taking.”

The Deputy Speaker said the experience underscored the need for stricter verification of organisations claiming government affiliation.

“This goes on to show that a beautiful letterhead that has the Presidency is no longer confirmation that an agency is legal. It goes to show that an address that shows Federal Secretariat does not mean that that particular agency is legal,” he said.

He urged lawmakers to support the motion and conduct a thorough investigation into how the alleged council operated.

“It is our duty, based on Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution, to dig deeper into this matter. I urge members to support this motion for the House to show Nigerians that we are in support of transparency and accountability in governance,” Kalu added.

PUNCH Online reports that the council sparked nationwide controversy after it appeared as one of the beneficiaries in the 2026 Appropriation Act despite the Presidency insisting that no such agency exists under the Federal Government.

The controversy broke after the National Assembly passed the 2026 budget with allocations to the council, raising questions over how an agency later disowned by the Presidency found its way into the federal appropriation process.

The Presidency subsequently distanced itself from the council, maintaining that President Bola Tinubu neither approved its establishment nor appointed anyone to head it.Following the development, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, petitioned security agencies over the alleged impersonation of the Presidency and the use of documents purportedly linked to the agency, leading to investigations by the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.

Matthew was subsequently arrested and detained by the police before being arraigned on allegations bordering on forgery, impersonation and related offences.

He has, however, consistently maintained his innocence, insisting that all documents in his possession were legitimately obtained.

As public outrage intensified over the agency’s inclusion in the federal budget, Tinubu directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission to investigate how the council was inserted into the 2026 Appropriation Act despite not being recognised by the Federal Government.

The President also ordered that everyone found culpable in the alleged budget insertion be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law, while directing relevant authorities to unravel the circumstances that led to the controversial allocation.

The House of Representatives yesterday rejected a proposal to invite President Bola Tinubu to explain the alleged suspension of funding for zonal intervention, popularly known as constituency projects, during a rowdy plenary over delays in the implementation of the 2026 budget.

The drama followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia State, Alex Ikwechegh, on the poor funding of appropriated budgets and delayed release of capital funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Earlier, the member representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency of Delta State, Benedict Etanabene, raised a constitutional point of order, informing the House that he had seen a circular from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation announcing the suspension of funding for zonal intervention projects pending fresh verification requirements.

Etanabene urged the House to exercise its constitutional oversight powers by inviting President Tinubu and members of his economic team to explain the reported suspension.

“I wish, Mr Speaker, that the Constitution be tested. I want to urge this House to agree that we summon Mr President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria together with his financial team to please come to this House… to brief Nigerians exactly what is happening because the stories are not complimentary at all,” he said.

He added, “We cannot explain to the constituents what is happening… Presently, in Nigeria today, we are implementing 2024, 2025 and 2026 budgets running concurrently. This is not in the best interest of everybody.”

The proposal triggered heated exchanges, with lawmakers shouting across the chamber as members took opposing positions.

Moving the substantive motion, Ikwechegh argued that the credibility of the appropriation process depended on the timely release and utilisation of budgeted funds.

“The powers of appropriation in the National Assembly, and the credibility of the budget rests not only on the size of the figures appropriated, but on the fidelity and timeliness with which appropriation funds are released, cash-backed and utilised for ministries, departments and agencies,” he said.

He noted that ministers and heads of MDAs had disclosed during the 2026 budget defence sessions that many agencies received little or no capital releases in the 2025 fiscal year.

Ikwechegh also recalled that President Tinubu had directed the immediate settlement of verified contractor liabilities estimated at about N1.5tn and approved the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee to harmonise records and facilitate payment.

Despite the directive, he said, releases to MDAs had remained slow, stalling projects and worsening contractors’ financial challenges.

The lawmaker further criticised a June 29, 2026 Treasury circular issued by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation requiring a Certificate of Verification and Compliance from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs before payments could be made for constituency projects.

According to him, the directive introduced fresh bureaucratic bottlenecks that could further delay project execution.

However, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas ruled that the proposal to invite the President was out of order, saying it was not part of the substantive motion before the House and was inconsistent with parliamentary procedure.

The House subsequently adopted the substantive resolutions of the motion, urging the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget Office of the Federation, Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation and the Central Bank of Nigeria to prioritise the timely release and cash-backing of appropriated funds.

Lawmakers also called for a clear schedule for the release of funds for the 2026 fiscal year and the speedy settlement of verified contractor liabilities.

The House further urged the Office of the Accountant-General to review the June 29 Treasury circular and harmonise it with the President’s directive to prevent further delays in the execution of constituency projects.

To strengthen oversight, Abbas constituted a 12-member ad hoc committee chaired by the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Abubakar Bichi, to interface with relevant fiscal authorities and report back to the House within four weeks.

The Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, said Nigeria must resist any hint of selective justice that erodes public trust and threatens national unity.

Obi said this in a statement posted on his verified X handle yesterday.

He was reacting to the viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, telling President Bola Tinubu that they don’t deserve what is happening to them.

“I woke this morning in America and was deeply moved by an emotional viral video of Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, prompting deep reflection on our nation’s future.

“Regardless of the allegations against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai or any other citizen, justice must be transparent and fair, with reasonable bail conditions that should not be seen as punitive before trial. In a democracy governed by the rule of law, institutions exist to protect every citizen’s rights, regardless of their background.

“We must resist any hint of selective justice that erodes public trust and threatens national unity. Those tasked with enforcing our laws must act professionally and strictly follow due process.

“Let us strive for a Nigeria where the law is paramount, and where every citizen is guaranteed dignity and justice. This is the foundation of the New Nigeria we envisage,” Obi tweeted.

The House of Representatives was yesterday thrown into a rowdy session as lawmakers clashed over a motion seeking to summon President Bola Tinubu to explain the alleged non-funding of constituency projects.

The tension followed the consideration of a motion sponsored by the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia State, Alex Ikwechegh, who decried what he described as poor funding of appropriated budgets and persistent delays in the release of capital funds to Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

The motion came on the heels of a Constitutional Point of Order raised by the member representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency of Delta State, Benedict Etanabene, who informed the House that he had seen a circular from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation announcing the suspension of funding for zonal intervention projects pending fresh verification requirements.

The debate quickly divided the chamber, with lawmakers across party lines expressing frustration over what they described as the slow implementation of projects approved by the National Assembly.

While the motion enjoyed overwhelming support, attempts by some members to oppose aspects of it were drowned out by loud shouts and protests from their colleagues, forcing the Speaker to repeatedly call for order.

Moving the substantive motion titled, “Urgent need to address the poor funding of appropriated budgets and delayed releases to MDAs as revealed during the 2026 budget defence sessions,” Ikwechegh argued that the credibility of the appropriation process depends not only on the passage of the budget but also on the timely release and utilisation of funds.

He said, “The powers of appropriation in the National Assembly, and the credibility of the budget rests not only on the size of the figures appropriated, but on the fidelity, timeliness with which appropriation funds are released, cash-backed, and utilized for ministries, departments, and agencies.

“The House also notes that during the 2026 budget defence sessions, honourable Ministers and heads of MDAs disclosed deeply troubling levels of funding of 2025 budget, including sectors that recorded zero capital releases for the entire fiscal year, and others that received only a token, a fraction of their appropriated capital votes.

“The House is aware that these disclosures are consistent with repeated protests staged in 2025 and early 2026 by indigenous contractors of Nigeria that have invested heavily to do business with the Nigerian government at the Federal Ministry of Finance and at the gates of the National Assembly; on one occasion, disrupting plenary sittings because due to unpaid certificates for completed and verified projects with many contractors unable to service bank loans obtained to execute government projects.”

Ikwechegh recalled that President Bola Tinubu had, at a Federal Executive Council meeting on December 10, 2025, directed the immediate settlement of verified contractor liabilities estimated at about N1.5tn and approved the establishment of an inter-ministerial committee to reconcile records and facilitate payment.

According to him, “The House is also aware that His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Federal Executive Council of 10th December, 2025 expressed grave displeasure at the backlog, directed the immediate settlement of verified contractor liabilities of about N1.5tn and constituted an inter-Ministerial Committee to harmonise records and deliver a lasting funding solution, declaring his readiness of the government to even borrow when necessary to settled verified obligations.

“The House is further aware that directive of the National Assembly approved the borrowing in excess of N1tn specifically to finance the settlement of outstanding obligations on completed and verified capital projects, in addition to dedicated provisions in the 2026 Appropriation Act for contractor liabilities, while the Honourable Minister for Finance have announced the clearance of substantial sums announcements, which contractors dispute as partial announcements.”

He expressed concern that despite the presidential directive and legislative approvals, the release of funds to MDAs had remained slow.

“The House is concerned that notwithstanding the clear directive of the President, the legislative approvals and the ministerial assurances releases to MDAs remain slow, if I may say unexistent, stalling critical projects, escalating contract costs, exposing contractors to insolvency, and rising non-performing loans and eroding public trust in the budget of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, approved by this parliament.”

The lawmaker also criticised a Treasury circular dated June 29, 2026, reportedly issued by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, which requires a Certificate of Verification and Compliance from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs before payments can be made for constituency projects.

He said, “The House is disturbed by recent newspaper reportage of a federal treasury circular dated 29th June, 2026 issued by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, halting payments for zonal intervention and constituency projects, unless a certificate of verification and compliance is first obtained from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, a directive which however well-intentioned, introduces yet another layer of bureaucratic bottlenecks at the very moment Mr President has demanded speed and risks turning back the hands of the clock by subjecting duly appropriated, procured, and executed projects to further delay.”

Nigeria Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has insisted that President Bola Tinubu is tired and needs to go home and rest in 2027.

Obi stressed that he is not desperate for power but wants Nigeria to work.

In an interview with media personality, Chude, Obi said Tinubu’s administration has sent more Nigerians into poverty.

According to Obi, some Nigerians doing well in business have resorted to selling kuli-kuli.

He said: “Tinubu is tired and needs to go home and rest. When Tinubu came into power 87 million Nigerians were in poverty but today it’s 140 million.

“Insecurity has gotten worse. Which hope are they going to renew again? You can’t renew failure.

“I am not desperate to be President of Nigeria. There’s a way you will fail in school, they will ask you to leave the school.

“People who had business when you came into power are now people who are selling kuli-kuli.”

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, said he may not be alive to contest the poll, alleging that the government is frustrating his activities and targeting opposition figures.

Obi made the remarks during an interview on With Chude, which media personality Chude Jideonwo posted on X yesterday.

Responding to a question on whether there was a possibility he might not be a candidate in 2027, Obi said, “Not even a candidate. I might not even be alive. I’m telling you.

“Every single thing I do for a living, this government is frustrating it. Deliberately so. Everything. So, there is even a possibility, if they have the opportunity, I will not be alive.”

He, however, clarified that he was not making direct accusations but described daily experiences of obstruction.

“It’s not an accusation. I know. I get frustration every day. Because you do things that you think would be normal—it is not normal anymore.

“They won’t come directly and say, ‘Oh, we’re doing this,’ but you can see their hand in virtually everything,” Obi said.

Asked whether the government was attacking him personally, the former Anambra State governor said the alleged treatment extended to members of the opposition.

“They are attacking everybody who is in opposition personally. I am being attacked personally. Everything. Even to provide me with necessary things that I should have been entitled to, not at all,” he said.

Obi cited an incident at an airport where he claimed officials locked his car despite other vehicles being parked in the same area.

“I had a case recently at the airport, where people who work in the airport came and locked my car. And I said, ‘It’s me.’ The person in charge said he doesn’t care.

“But I said, ‘Look at the cars of other people.’ And you could see them talking to each other, as if, ‘Who is this one?’”

He further alleged that some people now avoided publicly associating with him for fear of becoming targets.

“And I see people I know at the airport, they will not greet me because they are fearing that if they greet me…”

The former Labour Party presidential candidate also claimed that some supporters had discouraged him from attending family events.

“And I have people send me invitations and say, ‘My son, my daughter is wedding, but please don’t come,’” he said.

Obi did not provide evidence to support his allegations during the interview, and the Federal Government had yet to respond to his claims as of the time of filing this report.

Aslam Aliyu, a political ally of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has said there is no vacancy in the Presidential Villa until 2031.

Aliyu said President Bola Tinubu will emerge victorious in the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement she released in Abuja, announcing her resignation from the ADC and defecting to the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aliyu called the opposition party a “hoax.”

Aliyu also showed her support for Tinubu, saying her choice came after many years of working with the opposition, which she said did not offer a real plan for the country’s progress.

“After almost twenty years of working hard to make progress, it’s very clear that the opposition doesn’t have a real plan for development or a practical and lasting solution to save the country,” she said.

Aliyu said the opposition group didn’t have trust within its own members.

She also said the ADC didn’t have a real plan for the country, arguing that their approach was just criticizing the federal government without giving any real solutions.

She said, “Nigeria is fed up with political figures who only take photos and act like they’re filming, but don’t really care about the country.”

Aliyu asked her followers to become members of the APC and said that President Tinubu will win another term in 2027.

She said, “There are no available rooms in Aso Rock Villa because President Tinubu will win the presidential election in 2027, thanks to Almighty Allah.”

….Warns mischief makers

Satisfied with his leadership style and commitment to the development of the oil producing areas of Imo State, the Niger Delta Youth Stakeholders Forum has unanimously passed a Vote of Confidence on the Managing Director of Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), Chief Austin Onyedebelu.

The Vote of Confidence came on Tuesday when leaders of the Forum led by Comrade Wisdom Nwauwa, paid a courtesy visit to the ISOPADEC MD, in Owerri.

The youth leaders highlighted several challenges confronting communities in the oil producing areas and appealed for sustained government intervention to address developmental needs across the region.

Reacting, the MD  detailed the group on the Commission’s ongoing projects and programmes, explaining that ISOPADEC remains committed to delivering meaningful development to the people.

Onyedebelu noted that the Commission regularly engages traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups and other stakeholders to ensure inclusiveness and transparency in its operations.

The ISOPADEC boss further assured the delegation that his office remains open to every citizen of the oil producing region, encouraging stakeholders to continue offering constructive suggestions that will enhance the Commission’s performance.

Speaking, Comrade Nwachukwu Charles Oringo, President of NDYM, Imo State Chapter, commended Onyedebelu for his accessibility, responsiveness and developmental initiatives, saying the youth are impressed by the level of work being undertaken by the Commission.

The youth, satisfied with Onyedebelu’s achievements, unanimously endorsed his leadership style,   urging all stakeholders from the oil producing communities to unite behind his leadership in the interest of peace, stability and sustainable development.

The Forum also expressed optimism that Onyedebelu’s emergence as the Chairman of APC in Imo State would further strengthen his access to Governor Hope Uzodimma and attract greater developmental attention to the oil producing communities.

“The dual responsibility places the ISOPADEC MD in a strategic position to facilitate stronger collaboration between the Commission and the state government, a development we believe will translate into unprecedented growth for the Niger Delta communities in Imo State”, the youth added.

The Forum, however, warned individuals allegedly sponsoring campaigns of blackmail and distraction against the Managing Director to desist.

They also advised those interested in succeeding Onyedebelu to allow him complete his tenure, stressing that unnecessary distractions and politically motivated attacks would only undermine the Commission’s developmental mandate.

The youth reaffirmed its commitment to supporting every genuine effort aimed at improving the welfare of the people of the oil producing areas and pledged to continue partnering with ISOPADEC in promoting peace, accountability and sustainable development across the region.

Ebonyi State government has said that the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), cannot pitch the Minister of Federal Capital Territory(FCT), Nyesom Wike against Governor Francis Nwifuru.

The government alleged that the two factions of PDP have been making every attempt to score cheap political point and cause disaffection between Wike and Nwifuru by twisting a public statement of the Ebonyi Governor on June 15, 2025 at the Abakaliki Township stadium during the endorsement rally of President Bola Tinubu and other APC candidates for the 2027 general elections.

Commissioner for Information and State Orientation in the state, Chief Ikeuwa Omebeh stated this in a statement in Abakaliki, the state capital yesterday.

Omebeh said at no time did Nwifuru issue any threat against Wike during the .endorsement rally contrary to PDP statements and some media reports.

“The attention of the Ebonyi State Government has been drawn to press statements by the national leadership of the two factions of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as well as reports in some sections of the media, concerning remarks made by His Excellency, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, during the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and other APC candidates for the 2027 general elections held on June 15, 2026, at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki.

The State Government hereby makes the following clarifications: “at no time did His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, issued any threat against the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

“In his speech at the event, the Governor only cautioned some opposition elements who are fanning the embers of crisis in the State and spreading fake news and propaganda in the name of His Excellency, Barr. Nyesom Wike, to desist from such acts.

“The word “consume” used by His Excellency was a metaphorical expression indicating that those involved in such acts would face the full weight of the law if they fail to retrace their steps.

“Their Excellencies, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru and Barr. Nyesom Wike, maintain mutual respect. As such, Governor Nwifuru has no reason whatsoever, to make any uncomplimentary remarks or threats against Barr. Nyesom Wike.

“The attempt by the two PDP factions and some paid media hirelings to twist the Governor’s speech for selfish reasons and to create a rift between both leaders is uncalled for and should be discountenanced”, Omebeh said.

He urged PDP to be more concerned about resolving the numerous crises plaguing the party, which he said have rendered it almost non-existent, than commenting on the performance of the Nwifuru’s administration.

He said a party that has been unable to resolve its internal crisis for years lacks the moral rectitude to comment on governance issues.

“On the attempt to cast aspersion on the Governor and government of Ebonyi State by one of the PDP factions, we wish to counsel the party to be more concerned about resolving the numerous crises plaguing the party, which have rendered it almost non-existent, than commenting on the performance of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s administration.

“A party that has been unable to resolve its internal crisis for years lacks the moral rectitude to comment on governance issues.

“The two PDP factions are almost non-existent in Ebonyi State and pose no threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC), in the forthcoming general elections.

“The people of Ebonyi State remain in full support of His Excellency’s administration and will reaffirm this support with their votes in 2027. Opposition elements seeking relevance through fake news and propaganda should be prepared to face the law.

“The Ebonyi State Government maintains that any attempt to create an imaginary misunderstanding between Their Excellencies, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru and Barr. Nyesom Wike, will fail like a pack of cards”, the Commissioner said.

Members of Abia South Senatorial District under the aegis of Asiwaju Tsunami group have declared that the All Progressives Congress, (APC), will defeat Labour Party senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe, in the 2027 election.

The group which addressed the press in Aba yesterday, said that APC will record a resounding victory in Abia South and other parts of the state through the leader of Asiwaju Tsunami, Paul Ikonne .

The group which spoke through Chinwe Nwangaga yesterday, said the APC will take over the Abia South Senate seat from Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe through Ikonne.

The group argued that the Obingwa section of the Abia South political bloc which produced Abaribe, former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu and other politicians, have been dominating the district for over 20 years.

It also pointed to Ikpeazu’s appointment as Nigeria’s ambassador to Spain as evidence of the long-standing domination by the Obingwa section.

“Since 2007 when I ran for deputy governor, Abaribe has been in the Senate. We want a fresh person. We want a fresh idea and we have no doubt that Ikonne will beat anybody to win the election,” Nwanganga said.

The APC group while thanking President Bola Tinubu and the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, for being impartial in Abia South APC primary elections,  maintained that the national leadership of the party reserves the final decision on matters concerning APC candidates in Abia.

… Assures new members of equal rights and zero discrimination

The political landscape of Aboh Mbaise underwent a significant shift yesterday as the Executive Chairman of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Barr. Iheukwumere Alaribe, officially received a prominent chieftain, Engr. Bedewell Ehiriudu, alongside over 1,000 members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Uvuru Ward 1, into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The high-profile defection effectively marks the collapse of major opposition elements in Oke Ovoro and the wider Aboh Mbaise LGA.

The defectors were formally received at the Executive Chairman’s residence, in an event well attended by top government officials, APC leaders, and party faithful.

Addressing the gathering, Barr. Alaribe noted that the entrance of Engr. Bedewell Ehiriudu and his massive following into the APC signifies a total eclipse of the opposition in Aboh Mbaise. He warmly welcomed the newcomers, assuring them that the APC operates on a foundation of fairness and equity.

In his words: “There is no segregation or second-class citizenship within the APC. You will enjoy the same rights, privileges, and benefits as older members. I urge you all to deploy your wealth of experience towards driving the success and dominance of the All Progressives Congress in your wards and Aboh Mbaise in general.”

To immediately demonstrate this commitment to inclusivity, Barr. Alaribe announced the immediate appointment of former ADC Ward Chairmen, Hon. Obinna Njoku and Mr. Innocent Amuchie, as his Special Assistants.

Speaking at the event, the Member representing Aboh Mbaise State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Ugochukwu Amuchie, commended Engr. Ehiriudu and the people of Uvuru Ward 1 for making the right political choice. He described their former party, the ADC, as “sinking sand” that is fast fading into political oblivion.

Echoing these sentiments, the Local Government Party Secretary, Hon. Charles Agwulonu, who spoke on behalf of the APC LGA Chairman, Sir Tony Awusaku, described Engr. Ehiriudu as a “big fish” whose administrative and political weight would add immense value to the ruling party.

Expressing his gratitude, Engr. Bedewell Ehiriudu thanked the Executive Chairman for ensuring a seamless integration into the party. He revealed that his decision to cross over was inspired by the transformative leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the developmental strides of the Imo State Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, and the grassroots impact of Barr. Iheukwumere Alaribe.

Engr. Ehiriudu further noted that the unending leadership crisis within the ADC catalyzed their exit.

“The ADC is built on a faulty foundation, and the center can no longer hold. As progressives, we consulted widely and decided to collapse the entire ADC structure in Uvuru Ward 1. My supporters and I are fully committed to ensuring that the APC wins convincingly across all polling units and wards in Aboh Mbaise in the upcoming elections.”

The event drew a vast array of prominent political figures, including:

– Barr. Emma Njoku (Former Interim Management Committee Chairman)

– Hon. Kingsley Umunnakwe (Deputy Leader, AMLC)

– Hon. Chinonye Nwaogu (Chief Whip, AMLC)

– Hon. Ugonna Ihenaka, Hon. Bob Ufomadu, and Hon. Eze Oguzie

– Chief Kelvin Anosike (Oke Osisi)

– Hon. Sylvester Ugwuamaka, Hon. Ugochukwu Umunnakwe, and Hon. John Ikewe

– Chief Linus Ogunka, Engr. Leo Njoku

– Hon. Ogbonna Ekperi, Hon. Ogechi Ebegu

– Hon. John Akobundu, Hon. Isinabu Felix

– Hon. Ugwuezumba Onwuemeodo

– Hon. Chekube Ugoala

– Barr. Shedrach Anyalewechi

– Hon. Dennis Adikwuru

– Mr. Chika Iwuamadi (Chairman, Enyiogugu Ward)

– Mr. Samuel Umunnakwe (Chairman, Uvuru Ward 2)

– Mr. Ignatius (Chairman, Uvuru Ward 1)

– Mr. Udochukwu Iwuoha (Lorji Ward Chairman)

– Hon. Cashmire Anyamele (Ngurunwenkwo Ward Chairman)

– Mr. Akagha (Lagwa Ward Chairman)

– Members of the Local Government Working Committee, Ward Officers, and several others.

Piqued by high level of moral decadence in global communities and the need for Nigerian youths to live a life worthy of emulation, former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere, has admonished the nation’s youths on the need for their adherence to discipline, integrity and developing positive mind set of patriotism as the strategic pathways to sustainable growth, development and transformations of any country and her people.

Prince Madumere, who’s the 2027 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate for Imo East Senatorial district, ( Owerri zone,) disclosed this, while inaugurating the students wing of ” Journey of Grace” as part of the activities marking his 62nd birthday celebrations, held at the campaign office, Okigwe road, Owerri , Imo State.

The astute politician reminded the students that his Imo East Senatorial ambition, represents holistic paradigm shift to emancipate the citizenry, deliver tangible dividends of democracy to the youths, women and the elderly within the Senatorial zone and the nation at large.

The American trained technocrat urged them to take the Journey of Grace project as their project, preach the message to the populace, embrace residence, tenacity of purpose as they march on to victory in the forthcoming political dispensation.

The icon in human capacity building further enjoined the students on the absolute need to embrace positivity, thinking big , starting small, noting that greatness is achieved through purposeful dream focusing, commitments to vision, mission and having an enduring faith in Almighty God.

Prince Madumere reiterated that the advancement in technological evolution in the 21st century has shifted global needs and values that quickly demands a generation that can think outside the box, key into creativity, erase outdated norms and vigorously pursue excellence through genuine enterprise, rather than shortcuts to success, that erodes societal values.

The frontline Imo East Senatorial hopeful also advised the students to dismiss the pursuant of instant gratifications and the mindset that success comes without sacrifice, reminding them that such thinking often leads to stagnation.

According to the revered philanthropist, “I represents the real deal, I have the capacity , integrity, acumen and dexterity, as well as the reach and contact to deliver. I am one of you, very much accessible, dependable and reliable”.

He insisted that the demands of his people for effective and qualitative representations, will definitely form the bedrock of his Agenda when elected as the Senator, representing the Senatorial zone in the Red Chambers of the National Assembly.

The PDP Senatorial candidate re-affirmed his commitment to sign a social contract with the people of Owerri Senatorial Zone for results oriented representations when elected.

According to him, “I will sign a social contract for quality representation with my people, the stakeholders and the entire citizens of the Senatorial zone.

According to him, “I have a clear vision, I represents the face of fresh hope and aspirations of our people as enshrined in my blueprint, anchored on Journey of Grace, templates. Let’s work together and keep hope alive for a new Owerri zone is possible.

” Am highly perturbed because the good people of of Owerri zone have suffered so much marginalization in socioeconomic and political developments of the area. I will create sustainable youth and women empowerment programmes, job creation opportunities, and create conducive environment for businesses to thrive” he assured.

Prince Madumere, also re-emphasized that the students are the leaders of tomorrow, future hope of the nation and passionately noted that sustainable growth is rooted in integrity, humility, transparency and courage to be different in approach and delivery, saying a new Owerri Zone is possible through the Journey of Grace, paradigm shift mantra.

Responding, the President of the Students Union Government,SUG, Imo State University extolled Prince Madumere’s visionary and examplary leadership qualities , as well as his philanthropic gestures.

The SUG President also reiterated the resolved of the students community and the youths to work for him during electioneering campaigns and the election proper while describing him as a man of indomitable courage, with antecedents and pedigree.

It’s pertinent to recall that Prince Eze Madumere historical 62nd birthday was celebrated with pomp and pageantry as it featured, feed the street outings, visit to the Red Cross at Emmanuel college, Owerri, visit to orphanage home in World Bank, Owerri, Imo State.

The Senate yesterday defended the passage of the State Police Bill, insisting that 84 of the 109 senators voted in support of the bill during its clause-by-clause consideration, describing the outcome as evidence of broad bipartisan backing for the constitutional amendment.

Defending the Senate’s decision in a statement issued by his media office, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, said the proposal was the product of years of consultations, public hearings and stakeholder engagements across the country.

Bamidele also dismissed claims that the proposal was driven by partisan interests, insisting that it emerged from extensive consultations with the executive, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures and the police.

He noted that public hearings conducted across the six geopolitical zones in July 2025 produced overwhelming support for state police.

“The state police bill was subjected to intense debates at the Senate and House of Representatives. Though the All Progressives Congress (APC) is the majority party, opposition legislators actively took part in the process that approved the state police initiative.

“They exercised their discretion in favour of the proposal, mainly in the national interest and not on a parochial basis. In the Senate, for instance, 84 out of 109 members voted clause by clause in support of the bill. This accounted for 77.06 per cent approval at the Senate alone,” he explained.

The clarification comes amid growing debate over the proposed decentralisation of policing, with supporters arguing that state police would improve security at the grassroots, while critics fear governors could misuse the outfit to intimidate political opponents.

SANUSI insisted that traditional rulers and political elite in the North must work together to rebuild the region and improve the lives of the people, adding that God would question each person on what they did to better the society.

The former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) gave the admonition, weekend, while speaking at the yearly Dhikr and National Prayers organised by the Tijaniyya sect held at the ancient palace.

“We must first change ourselves before asking Allah to change our situation. We cannot continue waiting for others to solve our problems. Even our own people have come and gone without doing what needed to be done. We must work together to restore the lost glory of our land. There was a time others looked up to us with admiration, but today we are labelled as illiterate, uneducated and lacking peace, though many of these allegations are untrue.

“As traditional rulers and politicians, we must work together because Allah will ask each of us what we did to improve society. Let us pray that Allah grants us the strength and the opportunity to transform this region and improve the lives of our people,” Sanusi added.

He used the occasion to applause Governor Abba Yusuf’s administration.

Responding, Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to serving the people of Kano with sincerity, justice and fear of God, pledging to sustain policies and programmes that improve the lives of citizens.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dismissed a media report alleging that he was offered N500 billion to contest against Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), in a bid to split South-South votes.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Media, Ikechukwu Eze, described the report as “entirely false and baseless.”

Eze urged Nigerians to disregard what he called a fabricated report that falsely attributed the claim to the former president.

According to him, the report failed to state where or when Jonathan allegedly made the statement, who was present, or who purportedly made the alleged offer.

He said the publication bore “all the hallmarks of fake news deliberately crafted” to mislead the public and drag Jonathan into unnecessary political controversy.

Eze noted that election seasons are often characterised by a surge in misinformation and false attributions.

He urged Nigerians to disregard the report in its entirety and verify sensational claims before sharing them.

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the ongoing nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by two weeks and introduced an online self-service registration platform for eligible first-time voters as part of efforts to expand access to voter registration.

The Commission announced that the exercise, initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026, will now continue until Sunday, July 26, 2026.

The decision, according to INEC, followed a review of the exercise and feedback received from its state offices, political parties, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

Haruna said the extension was aimed at providing additional time for eligible Nigerians who had yet to register ahead of future elections.

“The extension underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that every eligible Nigerian has a fair and reasonable opportunity to be included in the Register of Voters ahead of future electoral activities,” he stated.

In a major innovation, the Commission also unveiled an online self-service voter registration platform for first-time voters, which will become operational on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

Haruna explained that the platform, accessible through INEC’s dedicated CVR portal, would enable eligible Nigerians to complete their voter registration process, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting any INEC office.

He added that the technology is equipped with robust identity verification, biometric validation and backend integrity checks to protect the integrity, credibility and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.

Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to an inclusive and technology-driven electoral process, Haruna urged all eligible Nigerians who were yet to register to take advantage of both the extended registration period and the newly introduced online registration option.

He stressed that the initiative reflects INEC’s determination to make voter registration more accessible while leveraging technology to improve citizens’ participation and experience in Nigeria’s electoral process.