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APC Chieftain Claims Reps Now Get N1bn Senators N2bn for Constituency Projects Under Tinubu

Our Reporters2 days ago2 days ago02 mins

Ayodele Asalu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, has claimed that constituency project allowances for federal lawmakers have significantly increased under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, rising from N200 million to N1 billion for House of Representatives members and up to N2 billion for Senators. Constituency allowances are federal funds allocated to lawmakers to address developmental and socio-economic challenges in their constituencies. Asalu, a former House of Representatives aspirant for Ede/Egbedore/Ejigbo Federal Constituency, made the claim during a meeting with APC supporters, as seen in a video shared by IntelRegion. He stated that following the removal of fuel subsidy, federal allocations to states and lawmakers were reviewed upward to allow for greater project execution capacity. “Before 2024, it wasn’t like this. But after subsidy removal, federal allocations to states increased—and so did lawmakers’ project funds. If you see a lawmaker executing projects, don’t think it’s from their pocket,” he said in Yoruba. Asalu’s remarks echo those of Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), who disclosed in March 2024 that he received over N1 billion for constituency projects in the 2024 budget. Nwoko emphasized that while there’s no uniform distribution, lawmakers secure funds based on lobbying power, noting that the allocations are intended for infrastructure and community development, not personal use.

Labour Party Chairman Abure Dares Peter Obi Others to Prove Corruption Claims

Our Reporters3 days ago3 days ago02 mins

Labour Party National Chairman, Julius Abure, has publicly challenged Peter Obi and other former presidential aspirants to present evidence of any funds allegedly given to him or the party during the 2023 general elections. In a video shared by Symfoni on Tuesday, Abure firmly denied receiving money from any candidate for personal use, including Peter Obi, the party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer. He warned that if provoked further, he would expose certain individuals in the party, claiming their reputations would be tarnished “like rotten eggs.” Addressing party members in Abuja, Abure said, “Let any of them—Peter Obi and others who contested—come out and say what they personally gave me or the party. Enough of hiding and alleging corruption. If they have evidence, let them present it. If not, they should remain silent forever.” He also hinted at convening a world press conference to address the allegations, saying he has stayed quiet out of respect and a hope for reconciliation. Speaking further, Abure criticized Abia State Governor Alex Otti, claiming the party received no money from him either. “He asked me what he could do for me. I said, ‘Nothing. Use your money for the election,’” Abure stated. “The party doesn’t have N1,000 from him or any other elected officials, except a few.” Amid growing internal rifts and accusations of financial misconduct, Abure maintained that the Labour Party leadership rejected bribes and resisted political pressure during and after the elections.

If the President Wants Peace I Also Want Peace — Wike

Our Reporters6 days ago6 days ago03 mins

The President has consistently expressed a desire for peace, and I cannot in good conscience say I don’t want the same. He recently visited with two governors and an elder statesman, all from the APC, and reiterated his commitment to resolving the crisis. I won’t oppose him—peace is something we all should work toward. I advised him, as a younger man, on the best course of action to avoid problems. But instead, some people around him told him not to listen, to assert himself as Governor. Now, the consequences have begun to unfold. People pushed him until a State of Emergency was declared. But who bears the brunt of that decision? He does. Who will suffer the consequences? Still him. And even if the State of Emergency is eventually lifted, has the underlying issue been resolved? No. The Assembly will remain as it is, the crisis will persist. Without their support, he won’t have a passed budget and won’t receive federal allocation. That’s the reality. If he genuinely wants peace, he should speak with the right people—like members of the Assembly and key leaders. True peace is reflected not just in words but in actions and conduct. Healing takes time. You can’t hurt people and expect immediate forgiveness or trust. If I didn’t want to support peace, I wouldn’t have welcomed him. I saw him speak, and as a human being, I felt something. He said yesterday that his spirit had left the matter—but how am I to know that? I don’t rely on public sympathy; I focus on the facts. After all, we’ve seen preachers claim they’re led by the spirit, only to find out later there was no spirit at all.

Ganduje: Nothing Wrong If Nigeria Becomes a One-Party State

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago03 mins

National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has said there is nothing wrong if Nigeria eventually evolves into a one-party system, provided such development reflects the will of the people. Ganduje made this statement on Friday after leading three senators from Kebbi State—Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Garba Maidoki—formerly of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to declare their defection to the ruling APC during a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With the defections, the APC continues to strengthen its majority in the National Assembly. Addressing growing concerns about the implications of the wave of defections from opposition parties, Ganduje dismissed fears that Nigeria’s democracy might be threatened. He cited China as an example of a country thriving under a one-party system. “There is nothing wrong if Nigeria becomes a one-party state. If that is the wish and blessing of Nigerians, we cannot quarrel with that,” Ganduje said. “A one-party state is not by force. It is by negotiation, by other political parties seeing the positive governance of our party and deciding to join us willingly.” He emphasized that the APC is not actively working to eliminate opposition, but if other parties merge into the ruling party due to its performance, it should be seen as democratic progression. “You know they say too many cooks spoil the soup. Too many political parties spoil governance,” Ganduje added. “China is one of the strongest countries in the world, and it’s a one-party system.” His remarks have sparked fresh debate about the future of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, with critics warning of the dangers of shrinking political competition, while supporters argue that effective governance should take precedence over partisan plurality. Read Full Details Here: news360ng.com

Aisha Yesufu Slams Peter Obi Over Comments on 2012 Fuel Subsidy Protests

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago02 mins

Activist and Labour Party supporter Aisha Yesufu has publicly criticised Peter Obi over his recent comments downplaying the 2012 Occupy Nigeria protests during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. In a YouTube video published on Thursday, Yesufu responded to Obi’s remarks suggesting that there was no need for mass protests when fuel prices increased from ₦87 to ₦120 under Jonathan. She called Obi’s stance “a very wrong allusion,” stressing that the right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy. “Yes, there was every reason to protest during Jonathan’s time,” Yesufu said. “People protest every day in functioning democracies. Protest is not about who is in power; it is about holding leaders accountable.” Yesufu, a prominent voice in Nigeria’s civic movement and a co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign, reminded Obi and other political leaders that no administration should expect immunity from public dissent. “If Mr. Obi thinks he will become President and people won’t protest because of how ‘good’ he is, then he should forget it,” she said. She also rebutted Obi’s logic that the 2012 protests were misguided since fuel was still relatively affordable. “People were protesting against ₦120 then — and rightly so. The ₦900 per litre we’re seeing today was in the future. Nobody protests the future,” she explained. Yesufu’s comments signal internal debate within the Labour Party’s support base, especially as Obi continues to maintain a high profile following his 2023 presidential bid.

In a significant political development, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The announcement was made by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo during President Tinubu's working visit to the state on May 8, 2025. Speaking at a reception held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Soludo emphasized the shared progressive ideals between APGA and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, "Our party (APGA) started endorsing the president at the centre from 2011 before I joined, and will continue to align and support the government at the centre. President Tinubu, who was sworn in on May 29, 2023, is expected to complete his first term in May 2027. The endorsement by APGA, a prominent party in the South-East, is seen as a strategic alliance aimed at fostering national unity and collaboration. During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned several projects, including the state's first-ever Government House, marking a historic milestone for Anambra State. He also received a chieftaincy title, 'Dike Si Mba' (Hero from another land), conferred by traditional rulers in recognition of his contributions to the state. The endorsement has sparked discussions within political circles, with some viewing it as a move to strengthen progressive politics in Nigeria. As the 2027 elections approach, such alliances may play a crucial role in shaping the country's political landscape.

APGA Endorses President Tinubu for 2027 Backs Alliance with APC

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago02 mins

In a significant political development, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its candidate for the 2027 presidential election. The announcement was made by Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo during President Tinubu’s working visit to the state on May 8, 2025. Speaking at a reception held at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, Governor Soludo emphasized the shared progressive ideals between APGA and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated, “Our party (APGA) started endorsing the president at the centre from 2011 before I joined, and will continue to align and support the government at the centre. President Tinubu, who was sworn in on May 29, 2023, is expected to complete his first term in May 2027. The endorsement by APGA, a prominent party in the South-East, is seen as a strategic alliance aimed at fostering national unity and collaboration. During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned several projects, including the state’s first-ever Government House, marking a historic milestone for Anambra State. He also received a chieftaincy title, ‘Dike Si Mba’ (Hero from another land), conferred by traditional rulers in recognition of his contributions to the state. The endorsement has sparked discussions within political circles, with some viewing it as a move to strengthen progressive politics in Nigeria. As the 2027 elections approach, such alliances may play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

Lagos APC Backs Consensus Ahead of LG Polls to Ensure Unity, Peaceful Primaries

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago04 mins

Ahead of the July 12 local government elections in Lagos State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced its preference for adopting a consensus approach in selecting chairmanship and councillorship candidates across the 57 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). The decision, according to party leaders, aims to maintain internal unity, ensure a rancour-free primary exercise, and position the APC to win all elective seats. With over 400 aspirants vying for 57 chairmanship positions and multiple councillorship seats, party leaders emphasized that consensus was the most pragmatic solution. The announcement was made during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday, attended by Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hazmat, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, Senator Oluranti Adebule (Lagos West), and other senior party figures. Deputy Governor Hazmat urged aspirants to embrace the consensus tradition of the APC. “Let us do it the way we have been doing it before now. It ensures unity within the party. We should not deviate from this ideology,” he said. Also speaking, Tajudeen Olusi, Chairman of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), highlighted the challenges posed by the high number of aspirants. “Five persons cannot occupy a single seat. In some wards, there are 12 aspirants for one councillorship seat. We must concede and support the party’s decisions,” he said. Chairman of the APC Electoral Committee, Babatunde Ogala, stressed the importance of a smooth process, noting the national significance of Lagos politics. “Our presidency is at stake. Lagos is a key sector nationally. Other states are watching. We must be thorough and fair,” he said. Ogala confirmed that the committee had followed party guidelines strictly and had conducted transparent screenings. He said the final list of successful and unsuccessful aspirants would be released by Thursday. While indirect primaries are officially prescribed, Ogala emphasized that consensus remains a valid democratic method. He urged local government leaders to reach agreements, allowing the committee to conduct affirmation instead of contested primaries. Chairmanship primaries will hold at the state party secretariat due to logistics, while councillorship primaries will take place across various wards on Saturday. Ogala stated that only aspirants and their accredited agents will be allowed at the election venues and warned against violating party guidelines. APC State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi appealed to members to prioritize party unity over personal ambition. “This is our party. Let us put its interests above all else to make President Bola Tinubu proud of our efforts in Lagos,” he concluded.

2027: Wike, PDP Governors Move Towards Reconciliation Amid Party Crisis

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago05 mins

Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, appear to be making headway in resolving lingering internal disputes, as part of broader efforts to unite the party ahead of the 2027 presidential elections. A high-level meeting held in Lagos last week between Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who represented the PDP Governors Forum, has been described by insiders as a significant step toward reconciliation. According to sources close to the matter, the dialogue addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State involving Wike and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, as well as contentious issues surrounding the South-South zonal leadership and the vacant National Secretary position. Mounting Internal Struggles Since its loss in the 2023 general elections, the PDP has faced escalating internal divisions. These worsened with the Wike-Fubara rift, which has polarized the party’s South-South bloc. In addition, leadership disputes and legal tussles over key positions have further strained relations between top party stakeholders. Efforts by the party’s national leadership, including the National Working Committee (NWC), Board of Trustees (BoT), National Executive Committee (NEC), and the Governors Forum, have so far yielded little resolution and, in some cases, exacerbated the infighting. These ongoing tensions have already led to defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including high-profile figures such as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, delivering a blow to the PDP’s electoral strength and public image. Key Resolutions From Lagos Meeting The source revealed that Wike used the Lagos meeting to express dissatisfaction with the Governors Forum’s recent decisions, which he argued violated party laws and lacked inclusivity. “Wike expressed his concern that the Forum’s decisions on key issues were taken without proper legal backing or wide consultation. He feels these have only complicated the PDP’s internal crisis,” the source said. Despite his grievances, Wike reaffirmed his commitment to remaining in the PDP, but demanded that the party reassess certain decisions to accommodate all stakeholders and restore internal harmony. In response, Governor Makinde acknowledged that some party officials had behaved in ways that undermined the authority and unity of the PDP governors. He emphasized that the intent of the Forum was not to alienate anyone, but to salvage and reposition the party. The two leaders reportedly agreed that: Makinde is expected to brief other PDP governors before the Forum’s next meeting, while Wike will consult with his supporters and allies to gain their buy-in. Optimism Amid Uncertainty A senior member of the PDP National Working Committee confirmed that the meeting between Makinde and Wike was “a step in the right direction” and could help unify the party as it prepares for 2027. Meanwhile, Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, expressed optimism, saying, “This and previous reconciliatory meetings show that the PDP still has what it takes to reposition and emerge stronger.” Efforts to reach the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.