Politics Archives - Page 15 of 87

Fear of intimidation keeps govs from joining ADC coalition – Abdullahi

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the African Democratic Congress has revealed that state governors are hesitant to join the opposition coalition platform formed to challenge President Bola Tinubu due to alleged intimidation.

The ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, made this known on Saturday during the 3rd Expanded Meeting of the National Political Consultative Group (North), held in Abuja.

He described the alleged acts of intimidation as a conspiracy against the Nigerian people.

On July 1, key opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, APC’s 2023 presidential aspirant Rotimi Amaechi, and former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai launched the ADC as a unified opposition platform to confront Tinubu in 2027.

Although former Senate President David Mark and former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola were appointed as the party’s interim National Chairman and Secretary respectively, and a few Nigerians have since aligned with the party, no sitting governor has joined.

Abdullahi attributed this hesitation to fear, stating that some governors are aligning with President Tinubu to avoid being intimidated.

He stated, “We don’t need to particularly target any serving governor. We know that no serving governor will want to come to us now because of the kind of intimidation that they are facing.

“We know what they are doing to them. Some of them who cannot jump to their party (APC) are saying we are endorsing their presidential candidate (President Tinubu). No problem.

“But what you are seeing is a conspiracy against the Nigerian people. The ADC welcomes everybody, but we are convinced that we are a movement that has the backing of the majority of Nigerians who are not happy with the direction this country is going.”

The ADC’s interim National Publicity Secretary stated that the party was not established to serve anyone’s personal ambition and emphasized that it remains free from any form of hijack.

The former Minister of Youth and Sport stated, “No, ADC is not going to be hijack. You see, the process for the building of the party ensures that the party does not coalesce around any individual.

“And like I repeatedly emphasised, the ADC is not built for anybody’s ambition. ADC is a party that is determined to give a different trajectory to Nigerian politics. We don’t have any predetermined agenda. We don’t have any favourite aspirant or candidate.

“We are not having any conversation at the moment. Nobody has ever had any conversation about who will be the party’s flag bearer. We believe that it is too early in the day. Our focus now is to build a political party that is strong enough to deliver on the mission that we have set for ourselves.”

Abdullahi explained that the National Political Consultative Group (North) convened the meeting to address and find solutions to challenges facing the Northern region, noting that a similar gathering is planned for the Southern region.

He stated, “As you see, it’s the Northern Consultative Group of the African Democratic Congress. It’s a meeting of our region, the northern region, the north of Nigeria, to discuss situations in the north, especially the issue of insecurity, the issue of how we can strengthen unity in the north.

“There are similar meetings in the south, there are similar meetings for the southeast, all coalesced under the African Democratic Congress. So this particular meeting today is for the Northern part of Nigeria.

“And like I said, it’s for the purpose of getting briefings from all the states to know what the issues are, what the challenges are, and the progress we are making in terms of building this coalition.”

Constitution review: No personal agenda, Barau assures Nigerians

The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has assured Nigerians that the committee has no personal agenda or preconceived opinions to impose on the people.

Senator Barau, who is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, made the remark at the commencement of the North-West Zonal Public Hearing on the Constitution Review held in Kano on Saturday.

He explained that the committee is guided solely by legislative ethics, patriotism, and the collective will of Nigerians.

“Members of the committee hold no preconceived opinions to impose upon you. We are committed to being guided by the highest ethical standards, open-mindedness, and patriotism.

“That is why I implore all stakeholders to provide your input in accordance with these standards, while maintaining the utmost decorum and responsibility,” he said.

The Deputy Senate President said that since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, public demands for constitutional reform have remained persistent.

In response, the National Assembly has enacted five sets of constitutional amendments, the 1st to 5th Alteration Acts, addressing governance, institutional reforms, and national aspirations.

He, however, acknowledged that several pressing national issues remained unresolved and required more than routine legislation.

“Many Nigerians believe that our challenges stem not just from the Constitution itself but from our collective attitude towards governance and the rule of law.

“Still, as representatives of the people, we are duty-bound to respond to their calls for renewed hope,” he said.

Barau stated that the Constitution Review Committee was set up to address these demands and build a broad national consensus.

He confirmed the receipt of hundreds of memoranda from citizens addressing key unresolved issues, including electoral and judicial reforms, local government autonomy, traditional institutions, human rights, gender inclusion, and security restructuring.

“We have carefully reviewed and translated these memoranda into bills which we now present for your further input and discussion.

“We urge you to share your insights with an open mind. This hearing is for all Nigerians, including those who may not have the means to travel to Abuja,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of civic participation, calling it a “vital contribution to shaping our national destiny.”

The Deputy Senate President also stressed the need for collaboration among all arms of government and levels of the legislature to ensure the success of the constitutional reforms.

“Our work must be harmonised with the House of Representatives and State Assemblies. Additionally, the understanding and cooperation of the executive and judiciary are critical. A law that is not implemented is ineffective by default; we must avoid that.”

He expressed appreciation for the attendance of various lawmakers and stakeholders, noting that the process will not end with the hearing but will continue through collaborative efforts to build a consensus that reflects the will of the people.

Buhari used Nigerian doctors, says ex-spokesman Garba Shehu

A former media aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu, has said that Buhari’s frequent medical trips abroad were a matter of personal preference and not a dismissal of Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Shehu made this clarification during an appearance on Channels Television’s “Inside Sources” program on Saturday.

His comments were a direct response to remarks made by Femi Adesina, another of Buhari’s former spokespersons.

Adesina had previously suggested that Buhari “could have died a long time ago” if he had relied solely on Nigerian hospitals, citing a perceived lack of expertise within the country.

However, Shehu contradicted Adesina’s view, asserting that Buhari remained under the care of Nigerian doctors throughout his presidency, implying that the foreign trips were not due to a lack of local medical competence.

Shehu said, “I think it is wrong to assume that he fenced himself off from the Nigerian medical system.

“He had a Nigerian doctor, a chief personal physician and a state house clinic, also led by a medical consultant, a distinguished doctor of many years of practice.”

He emphasised that the president’s medical team was always available to meet his immediate health needs.

“In terms of the immediacy of his own medical needs, they were always present to administer to his own needs,” Shehu added.

While acknowledging Buhari’s consistent visits abroad for treatment, Shehu said this was due to the president’s longstanding medical relationship overseas.

“As for his attachment to his past practice abroad for his medicals, he had an attachment to that.

“It was not that he was disrespectful of Nigeria’s medical practice or that he didn’t believe,” he said.

Shehu also highlighted the presence of Nigerian-trained doctors working globally, noting that their competence is recognised worldwide.

“For most people who also travel abroad and they need to see doctors — I have experienced this in America — you go into the office of the doctor and you find that it’s a Nigerian surgeon, it’s a Nigerian doctor,” he noted.

President Muhammadu Buhari died on July 13 in a London clinic after a prolonged illness.

He was buried at his residence in Daura, Katsina State, on July 15.

Eno hails Tinubu for empowering Akwa Ibom people 26th

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom on Saturday commended President Bola Tinubu for extending the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer initiative to over 27,000 vulnerable residents of the state.

A statement issued by the governor’s aide on entrepreneurship development, Meflyn Anwana in Abuja disclosed that each beneficiary received N75,000 as part of the programme aimed at alleviating poverty and mitigating economic hardship.

Eno described the gesture as a timely intervention that aligns with his administration’s inclusive governance and humanitarian vision.

Speaking at the flag-off of the programme held at the Women Development Centre in Uyo, Eno, represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Helen Obareki, praised the President for prioritising the welfare of the poor and ensuring that his people are not left behind in the federal government’s social investment drive.

The statement partly read, “Through the Renewed Hope Agenda initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over 27,000 Akwa Ibom people received a conditional cash transfer of ₦75,000 earlier today.

“This initiative, strategically designed to lift the poorest of the poor out of poverty and reduce economic hardship, is a social investment that aligns with the humanitarian model in Akwa Ibom State.

“His Excellency reaffirmed his commitment to partnering with the Federal Government to support vulnerable citizens, particularly through the implementation of the ARISE Agenda.”

The statement further highlighted that since assuming office in May 2023, Eno’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on social welfare and embedding humanitarian responses into state policy with the creation of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.

“The state has delivered 205 homes, provided monthly stipends to 600 elderly persons, and facilitated health insurance coverage for 1,287 senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

“The governor also awarded educational grants to 243 students with disabilities, supported MSMEs with equipment and funds, and empowered youths with ₦50,000 grants.

“Our policies are not just about giving food or cash to people but about restoring dignity, driving economic empowerment, and building a state where no one is left behind,” Eno said.

Kano orders probe into commissioner’s alleged role in drug baron’s bail

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the alleged involvement of the State Commissioner for Transport, Alhaji Ibrahim Namadi, in the controversial bail of a suspected drug baron, Sulaiman Wawu.

The governor’s directive follows public uproar and mounting concern after reports emerged that the Commissioner’s name featured in official documentation reportedly used to secure the suspect’s release.

A statement issued on Saturday by the Governor’s spokesman, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, said the state government was treating the matter with the seriousness it deserves, noting that any attempt to shield individuals suspected of sabotaging the fight against drug-related crimes would not be tolerated.

“To ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry,” the statement read, “Governor Yusuf has constituted a special investigative committee to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and recommend appropriate measures.”

The committee, chaired by Aminu Hussain, who is also the Governor’s Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters, has been tasked with investigating the case and submitting its findings with immediate effect.

Other members of the panel include: Hamza Haladu; Hamza Nuhu Dantani; Alhaji Abdullahi Mahmoud Umar; Maj. Gen. Sani Muhammad (retd.); Kabiru Said Dakata and Hajiya Bilkisu Maimota – Secretary.

Governor Yusuf, while unveiling the committee, expressed grave concern over the potential abuse of public office by political appointees and restated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse and related social vices.

“Let it be known that our administration will not condone any act that compromises the safety and wellbeing of our citizens. We are fully committed to the ongoing fight against drug trafficking and abuse, and anyone found culpable—regardless of their position—will face the full weight of the law,” the statement added.

Although no official response has been issued by the Commissioner for Transport as of press time, the formation of the investigative panel suggests a decisive move by the Kano State Government to maintain public trust and ensure transparency in governance.

The alleged drug baron at the centre of the controversy, Dan Wawu, is said to have been arrested on charges related to narcotics trafficking.

His sudden release, which allegedly involved political interference, has raised eyebrows across the state.

The probe comes at a time when the state government is ramping up campaigns against drug abuse and criminality, particularly among youths, which Governor Yusuf has repeatedly described as a major threat to the security and future of Kano State.

Kebbi gov mourns Emir of Gusau

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has extended condolences to the government and people of Zamfara State over the passing of the Emir of Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Bello.

In a condolence message addressed to Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, Idris described the late monarch as a man of wisdom and peace whose leadership and counsel were instrumental to the stability and progress of his domain.

The message, made available by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris, on Saturday, noted that the death of the Emir came at a time his guidance was most needed for the sustenance of unity and relative peace in Zamfara State.

Idris fondly recalled the Emir’s significant contributions to public service, especially in the health sector, dating back to the old Sokoto State, saying his legacy would be remembered for generations.

While praying for Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and eternal rest for the late royal father, the Governor urged the bereaved family and the Gusau Emirate Council to find comfort in the Emir’s remarkable service to Allah and humanity.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kebbi State, I offer our deepest sympathies and pray Almighty Allah to grant the deceased Aljannatul Firdaus and give his family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” the statement concluded.

At least 3 killed as Russia, Ukraine exchange strikes

Russia struck several regions of Ukraine overnight, officials said Saturday, reporting one person killed in Dnipro, while Moscow said two people died after a Ukrainian drone attack in the Rostov region.

Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov said one person was killed in a high-rise apartment complex.

Across the border, Russia’s acting governor of Rostov said a car caught fire following a drone strike.

“Tragically, two people died,” Yuri Sliusar posted on Telegram.

Ukrainian officials in Dnipro, Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia all reported coming under Russian fire overnight.

In Dnipro, Filatov urged people to take precautions during Russian attacks.

“I understand that there aren’t enough shelters, but I must say: during shelling, it is absolutely not advisable to stay on the upper floors, especially when there is an underground parking area available,” he posted on Telegram.

Kharkiv Mayor Igor Terekhov said that his city had come under sustained bombardment “for almost three hours”.

“The enemy used several types of weapons simultaneously: guided bombs, ballistic missiles and kamikaze drones,” he added.

In Zaporizhzhia, Governor Ivan Fedorov said several fires broke out following Russian drone attacks, one of which hit a residential building while another damaged a farm warehouse.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been pushing for a meeting with counterpart Vladimir Putin to end the war, with Kyiv proposing talks by the end of August.

But the Kremlin on Thursday downplayed the likelihood any such meeting was imminent.

Both sides have radically different positions at the negotiating table, and Ukraine has accused Russia of sending only low-level officials with no decision-making power.

Russia has called on Ukraine to effectively cede four regions that Moscow claims to have annexed, a demand Kyiv has called unacceptable.

Ukraine meanwhile has been pleading with its Western backers to send more weapons for its troops to withstand daily Russian attacks.

Gambian president pays condolence visit to Buhari’s family

The President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow, on Friday paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, at his hometown in Daura, Katsina State.

Barrow, who arrived in Katsina for the visit, was received by the Secretary to the Katsina State Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, alongside members of the Buhari family.

While offering his tribute, Barrow described the late Buhari as a pillar of democracy and a steadfast supporter of The Gambia.

“President Buhari stood by us and the Gambian people to ensure that our democratic mandate was fully respected and implemented to its ultimate end,” he said.

Barrow said that Buhari was more than a leader to him personally.

“Every time I saw Buhari, I saw a father, a brother, and an uncle standing before me,” he said.

Barrow highlighted Buhari’s role in promoting peace and democracy across West Africa through ECOWAS, the African Union, and on the global stage.

He stated, “I feel deeply obliged for what President Buhari has done — not just for The Gambia, but for ECOWAS, the African Union, and Nigeria’s image across the world.

“He stood for democracy, freedom, and justice.”

The Gambian leader extended his condolences to the Buhari family and the Nigerian people.

“We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family and to all Nigerians for the loss of a great man—one who helped shape who we are today,” he said.

In his remarks, Garba-Faskari described Barrow’s visit as a true reflection of African brotherhood.

He added that Buhari’s contributions to peace and stability in Nigeria and across the continent would never be forgotten.

Responding on behalf of the family, Yusuf Buhari, son of the late president, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the visit.

He said the gesture underscored the strong historical and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and The Gambia, as well as the late president’s enduring legacy in Africa.

NAN

Tinubu receives class of 1999 govs in Aso Villa

President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, hosted members of the 1999 class of governors at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The former governors were led to the State House by a former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori.

Details of the meeting were not disclosed as of the time of filing this report, but the visit is believed to be part of ongoing consultations by the President with key political stakeholders.

The Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun made this known in a post via his X handle on Friday.

The class of 1999 governors, who assumed office at the return of democratic rule, played significant roles in shaping Nigeria’s Fourth Republic politics.

PUNCH Online reports that Tinubu was the Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007.

More to come…

SDP NEC dissolves Gabam-led NWC, secretary faults process

The internal crisis rocking the Social Democratic Party took a dramatic turn on Friday as the party’s National Executive Committee dissolved the National Working Committee led by the suspended National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, over the lingering crisis rocking the party.

The decision was announced at an emergency NEC meeting held in Abuja and presided over by the party’s National Financial Secretary, Ibrahim Biu.

“The NWC, by this resolution, stands dissolved. We hereby nominate the following persons to take charge of the affairs of our great party, and to move the party forward,” he declared.

The new interim leaders announced include “Adamu Modibo (National Chairman), Abubakar Dogara (Deputy Chairman), Ekpeyong Ambo (National Secretary), Joseph Abu (National Organising Secretary), and Chief Solsuema Osaro (National Legal Adviser).

“Others are Judith Shuaibu (National Publicity Secretary), Ibrahim Biu (Financial Secretary), and Eluwa Ifeanyi (National Youth Speaker).”

Biu told journalists that it was unfortunate the NEC took such a drastic measure following failed attempts to resolve the internal crisis.

“In the last couple of months, our party, unfortunately, was engulfed in a leadership crisis. You are fully aware, somehow, that the party has been factionalised.

“A group loyal to the National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye, suspended the National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, on allegations of misappropriation and fraud.

“On the other hand, the national chairman debunked those allegations and equally considered the so-called appointments made by the group of the secretary as illegal. “That resulted in a kind of scuffle to the extent that the two groups clashed at the National Secretary of SDP. That created a crisis that security operatives had to intervene”, Biu stated.

Continuing, he noted that despite efforts by the NEC to reconcile the factions, the crisis has severely damaged the party’s image and progress.

“This has seriously affected our supporters, and we felt all the efforts we put in the last three years, since our last convention in 2022, somehow, because of this crisis, seem to be lost. And we cannot afford it. We have put in so much effort to build this party to this level. It’s for this reason that we decided to say, let’s come together.

“If the leadership of the party are not ready to provide a remedy to this situation, then you, NEC members, especially at the state should come together and see what we can do so that we can restore the confidence and trust of our teaming supporters,” he said.

In a related development, the NEC also announced SDP’s withdrawal from any form of alliance with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s coalition, which includes the African Democratic Congress.

Addressing journalists, the Deputy Chairman, Abubakar Dogara, clarified the party’s position.

He said, “Recently, there was this issue of coming together of major political stakeholders in the country and some political parties to form a coalition, which SDP was part of in the initial stage.

“But later, the person who represented SDP in that coalition meeting explained to the coalition that SDP are still contesting the by-elections across our 12 states and that the party was not ready to lose its identity. So the party decided to remain as SDP for the time being.

“Stakeholders were engaged later, and everybody agreed that the party should remain as an individual political party. Therefore, the SDP is not part of the coalition. So we will be contesting in the 2027 general elections with our presidential candidates and vice presidential candidates.”

Meanwhile, the embattled National Secretary, Dr Olu Agunloye, has rejected the dissolution of the NWC, insisting the action holds no legal weight.

Agunloye disclosed this in a statement released in the wake of the NWC dissolution on Friday.

According to him, the NEC members were loyalists of the other faction carrying out a hatchet job.

He said, ‘This is to let members of the National Executive Committee of our great Party know that the National Working Committee at its meeting passed a resolution, dissociating itself and the national leadership of the Party from the so-called NEC meeting in Abuja.

“The NWC urges all our elected federal and state legislators, Zonal Officers and State Chairmen, to disregard this illegal and irregular NEC meeting. About 13 State Chairmen had already sent sworn affidavits, as of 23/7/25, through various lawyers to the INEC Chairman to dissociate themselves from the Bissallah-Modibbo NEC Call, claiming their signatures were misappropriated and improperly used.

“The NWC enjoins all our esteemed State Chairmen to be properly guided and not be lured into a trap to avoid sanctions for breach of the SDP Constitution.”