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SDP Expels El-Rufai, Bans Him from Party Activities for 30 Years

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Kaduna, Nigeria – July 28, 2025The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, and banned him from all party-related activities and membership rights for the next 30 years. The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba. The party accused El-Rufai of falsely presenting himself as a member without undergoing proper registration processes, a violation of party protocols and Nigeria’s electoral regulations. According to the statement, El-Rufai allegedly forged documents to claim membership in Unguwar Sarki Ward of Kaduna North LGA and assigned himself membership number “001”. Despite making public declarations on social media that he had joined the SDP, investigations by the party revealed that he never completed the required registration at the ward level. The SDP also accused the former governor of using the party’s name in unauthorized political dealings, attempting to pull the SDP into coalition arrangements without the consent of its leadership, and destabilizing party structures with “obscene inducements, misinformation, and manipulation.” “Effective immediately, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai is excommunicated from the Social Democratic Party, with a 30-year ban from applying for membership or associating with the party in any capacity,” the statement read. The party said it has notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies of the decision. The SDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal discipline, ideological clarity, and ethical political engagement, urging all prospective members to adhere strictly to its constitutional procedures.

Over 32,000 APGA Members Defect to APC as Prince Ukachukwu Gains Momentum Ahead of 2025 Anambra Polls

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 days ago05 mins

Massive Endorsements, ₦150 Million Fundraising Mark Turning Point in Guber Race In what analysts are calling a major shift in Anambra’s political dynamics, over 32,000 members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in support of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the party’s governorship candidate for the November 8, 2025, election. The unprecedented mass defection occurred during a mega rally and thanksgiving event hosted by the Sustenance of Faith in Governance (SOFIG) Family—popularly known as the Ikwukuoma SOFIG Family—marking its sixth anniversary on Saturday. The event drew thousands of party supporters, political stakeholders, and grassroots mobilizers from across the state. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Prince Ukachukwu, fondly called Ikwukuoma, expressed deep gratitude to the SOFIG movement for its unreserved endorsement and support. “This is the first time I’ve received such overwhelming support without anyone asking for a single kobo,” Ukachukwu said. “SOFIG has invested in this journey with faith, love, and commitment. This isn’t politics as usual—it’s a divine movement rooted in family, community, and vision.” He pledged to usher in a new era of people-focused, integrity-driven governance, promising to build political leadership from the grassroots to the statehouse. “Within this crowd are tomorrow’s councillors, local government chairmen, and Assembly members,” he added. “We are laying the foundation for a new political future.” Senator Ekwunife Declares Ukachukwu “Anambra’s Needed Leader” Deputy governorship candidate, Senator (Iyom) Uche Ekwunife, described Ukachukwu as a visionary leader capable of transforming Anambra. “The time is ripe. Prince Nicholas is trustworthy, God-fearing, and ready,” she stated. “Our victory must start at the ward level and spread across all 901 wards of Anambra Central and beyond.” She praised SOFIG founders Dr. (Bar) Kingsley Ezekwelu and Dr. Kenneth Ezekwelu for creating what she called “one of Nigeria’s most impactful political platforms.” ₦150 Million Boost for Campaign SOFIG National President, Dr. Kingsley K. Ezekwelu, Esq., formally endorsed Ukachukwu and Ekwunife, announcing a ₦150 million donation to the campaign. “We are more than 35,000 members strong, including 32,000 defectors from APGA today,” Dr. Ezekwelu said. “This is more than an endorsement—it’s a mission. We are ready to win this battle with our PVCs.” APC Welcomes New Members APC State Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, welcomed the new members, describing the day as a “historic milestone.” “With Prince Ukachukwu, APC is poised to deliver the long-awaited transformation in Anambra. The tides are turning—and SOFIG has shown us the way,” he said, while donating ₦2 million to SOFIG on behalf of the party. Financial Powerhouses Fuel Campaign Momentum The rally also featured a significant financial show of force: As the 2025 polls draw closer, Saturday’s event signals a strong and coordinated push by the APC and its supporters to challenge APGA’s longstanding dominance in Anambra politics.

No Tinubu-Kwankwaso Secret Meeting, Alliance Talks Hit Roadblock

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago08 mins

By Kamal Yalwa Media reports on Monday (not originating from Daily Trust) claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held a secret meeting with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, national leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The report suggested the closed-door engagement was part of a broader plan by the presidency to bring Kwankwaso back into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections, potentially as a vice-presidential candidate. However, the story has since been debunked by credible sources at both the Presidency and Kwankwaso’s camp. False Claims, Denials Follow The alleged meeting was said to have followed Kwankwaso’s attendance at the Nigeria Forest Economy Summit 2025 at the State House Conference Centre. It was portrayed as a second known interaction between the two leaders since Tinubu’s inauguration in June 2023. But a source close to Kwankwaso dismissed the report, saying: “That narrative is far from the truth. Kwankwaso was only at the Villa for the stated conference and nothing more.” Presidency insiders also rubbished the claims. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political Matters, Ibrahim Kabir Masari, described the report as “fake news,” adding, “There was nothing like that. If the meeting had taken place—either at the office or the residence—it would have been known.” Alliance Talks Stalling Recent developments suggest a cooling of relations between President Tinubu and Kwankwaso, once speculated to be on the verge of an alliance. Following the surprise resignation of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC national chairman—widely believed to have been Kwankwaso’s main obstacle to rejoining the party—analysts speculated that reconciliation talks were gaining traction. However, the narrative shifted sharply this week. During a Kano State-sponsored forum on constitutional reform, Kwankwaso lashed out at the Tinubu administration, accusing it of neglecting Northern Nigeria in favour of the South. “The North is battling poverty, insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure due to mismanagement and resource allocation,” Kwankwaso said. “Most of the roads in the North are in terrible condition, while huge sums are being spent on the South.” Presidency Responds In response, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Sunday Dare, refuted the claims on X, listing over 40 federal projects initiated in the North during Tinubu’s tenure. He maintained that the administration had demonstrated balanced development across regions. Kwankwaso Rallies Support The former Kano governor further signalled a shift in strategy on Friday, when he announced that thousands of APC defectors had joined the NNPP at his residence in Kano. “Our distinguished leadership continues to attract new members. I welcome them all and assure them of fairness and cooperation,” Kwankwaso posted on X. Alliance Hopes Fade Sources close to Kwankwaso told Weekend Trust that the former defence minister is weighing multiple options for 2027. These include: “The Tinubu option isn’t off the table, but it’s complicated,” a senior aide said. “There’s no rush to decide.” A Political Gamble? Dr. Aminu Hayatu, a political analyst at Bayero University, Kano, believes Kwankwaso is playing a waiting game. “He’s watching how the dynamics evolve within both the APC and opposition coalitions. His recent criticism of Tinubu may be strategic—to press for better political leverage,” Hayatu told Daily Trust. He warned that joining the APC could alienate parts of Kwankwaso’s base, many of whom are critical of Tinubu. How It All Began Speculation about a Tinubu-Kwankwaso alliance dates back to 2023, when reports emerged that the two met in Paris shortly after Tinubu’s election victory. Kwankwaso was rumoured to have accepted a ministerial role—an appointment that never materialised. Tinubu’s directive to Ganduje to reconcile with Kwankwaso also failed, reportedly due to Ganduje’s resistance. With Ganduje now out, many believed an alliance was imminent—until Kwankwaso’s recent criticism suggested otherwise. What Lies Ahead While President Tinubu is reportedly still exploring ways to secure Northern support in 2027, Kwankwaso’s next move remains uncertain. Whether he stays in the NNPP, aligns with the opposition, or rekindles talks with the presidency, his political clout—especially in Kano, Nigeria’s most populous state—will be pivotal in the race. In 2023, Kwankwaso’s 997,279 votes in Kano far exceeded Tinubu’s 517,341 and effectively blocked Atiku Abubakar’s chances in the region. As Nigeria edges closer to 2027, all eyes remain on the direction he chooses to go. Source: Daily Trust

Oshiomhole Clarifies Comment on Peter Obi’s Visit to Edo, Says Media Exaggerated Narrative

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

By: Kamal YalwaJuly 26, 2025 Former Governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has addressed the controversy surrounding remarks about Peter Obi’s recent visit to a state-owned facility in Edo, stating that the media exaggerated the incident. Speaking during a public engagement, Oshiomhole said there was no personal rift between him and the Labour Party presidential candidate, whom he described as a former colleague and someone he still holds in high regard despite their differing political views. “I think the media tried to exaggerate it,” Oshiomhole said. “You know, people who don’t talk too much must choose how they communicate. The essential message was clear: Obi and I know each other well, and I like him—I still do—but politically, we don’t agree.” The Senator narrated how, in early June, he was invited to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to deliver a lecture. In anticipation of the trip, he made efforts to notify the Enugu State Governor out of respect and protocol, even though he is no longer a serving governor. “I asked my orderly to get the phone number of the Governor. When he finally reached the Governor’s ADC, I requested that my visit be conveyed to His Excellency and that I would appreciate security support from the airport to Nsukka. There’s no law mandating this—it’s simply about decency and mutual respect.” Oshiomhole recounted a similar precedent from his time as Governor of Edo State when former President Olusegun Obasanjo—despite their strained relationship during Oshiomhole’s time as Nigeria Labour Congress President—formally informed him of a visit to Edo State and requested logistical and security support. “Obasanjo came to my residence, and when the media asked why, he said, and I quote: ‘Whomever you think you are, when visiting a state, there is a constitutional authority in that state. Out of respect, you inform the Governor.’” He stressed that Peter Obi, though well-intentioned, should have extended the same courtesy when visiting a government-owned nursing school in Edo State—an institution fully built, funded, and maintained by the state government. “It’s not a private facility. It’s owned 100% by the Edo State Government. So, even if Obi has good intentions, as a former Governor, he should understand the importance of protocol and decency in such cases.” Oshiomhole concluded by stating that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s concerns were not about seeking permission, but a matter of basic courtesy and administrative order. “Maybe it was a question of how people interpreted the Governor’s choice of words. But the message was clear: if you’re coming to a state facility, it’s just respectful to notify the sitting Governor. It’s not about protocol or permission—it’s about decency.”

Atiku’s Media Aide Accuses Tinubu of Favoritism Towards Christians, Sparks Religious Backlash

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

By Kamal YalwaJuly 26, 2025 A political storm is brewing following a controversial statement by Abdul-Aziz Na’ibi Abubakar, a media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, in which he accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of favoring Christians in key appointments across his administration. In a widely circulated message, Na’ibi claimed that President Tinubu’s government has disproportionately handed top federal positions to Christians, despite running a Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket. He suggested that Muslims must “rise up and take over the country” from what he referred to as a “Christian government.” The statement has sparked outrage and renewed religious tensions in the political space, with critics accusing Atiku’s camp of fueling division and promoting an anti-Christian agenda. A counter-narrative has since emerged, highlighting the religious identities of high-profile Christian appointees under the Tinubu administration. The list includes: Observers note that the religious composition of Tinubu’s cabinet and appointees reflects a diverse, multi-faith balance—contrary to accusations of sectarian bias. “This administration’s appointments are arguably among the most inclusive Nigeria has seen in recent years,” a political analyst commented. “To frame this as anti-Muslim or pro-Christian is disingenuous and dangerous.” Meanwhile, the presidency has yet to issue an official response to Na’ibi’s remarks. However, civil society groups and interfaith organizations have urged political actors to refrain from incendiary language capable of destabilizing the country’s fragile unity. Political tensions are expected to rise further as Nigeria edges closer to the 2027 general elections, with religion and ethnicity once again taking center stage in national discourse.

Presidency Refutes Kwankwaso’s Claims of Northern Marginalisation

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Presidency has dismissed recent claims by former Kano State governor and 2023 NNPP presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is marginalising northern Nigeria. Kwankwaso, speaking during a stakeholders’ dialogue on the 2025 constitutional amendment held in Kano on Thursday, accused the federal government of concentrating resources and development efforts in the South, while poverty and insecurity continue to escalate in the North. He also decried the poor condition of infrastructure in the region, citing a recent journey from Abuja to Kano via Kaduna. The trip, he said, was a “hellish” experience due to the deteriorating state of the federal highways. In response, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday to counter the accusations. Dare described the allegations as unfounded and insisted that the Tinubu administration is committed to inclusive and equitable development across all regions of Nigeria. He reaffirmed that no section of the country is being neglected or treated unfairly in the current dispensation. “The North has not been sidelined,” Dare said, adding that the administration’s infrastructure and economic policies are designed to benefit the entire nation, irrespective of geography or political affiliation.

Peter Obi Caught in Fresh Coalition Controversy, Denies Being Tricked into ADC Alliance

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

A new controversy has erupted over the involvement of former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the emerging opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with claims surfacing that he was tricked into joining the alliance under false pretenses. Reports suggest that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may be positioning himself as the coalition’s leading presidential hopeful for the 2027 elections, following recent statements hinting at his intention to run again. At a public event, Atiku vowed to clamp down on corruption if elected, saying, “I swear to God, if elected, whoever steals or engages in any corruption-related activities, we will declare war against them and they must be punished.” Meanwhile, Peter Obi clarified that he has not discussed any joint ticket arrangement with Atiku or anyone else. He reiterated his commitment to serve only a single term if elected president. “If there is any form of agreement that will restrict me to four years in office, I will comply with the agreement and be ready to leave office on the 28th of May 2031,” Obi said. Obi Was Deceived into Coalition – Ex-Adviser Alleges Katchy Ononuju, a former Special Adviser on Public Affairs to Obi during the 2023 presidential campaign, alleged that Obi was misled into joining the coalition. According to Ononuju, the promise was that Obi would emerge as the presidential candidate after the coalition’s launch, but those behind the move had other intentions. “They tricked Peter Obi, saying don’t worry, go and register, go, let us inaugurate. After the declaration, we will start negotiating on you being the presidential candidate,” Ononuju told DAILY POST. “But ADC is an Atiku Abubakar construct. You’re not going to get it.” Ononuju claimed he had warned Obi against trusting the arrangement and cautioned that any attempt to accept a vice-presidential slot under Atiku or anyone else would result in a “political death.” He stressed that the youth-led Obidient Movement would reject such a compromise. “Peter Obi as a political creation will die if he abandons the youths. In every single administration, the voice of the Vice President does not matter; it is muted and if he complains, he is degraded,” he said, citing past vice presidents such as Osinbajo and Atiku himself. Obi Remains with Labour Party – Tanko Reacts Reacting to the claims, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, dismissed Ononuju’s assertions as attempts to sow discord. He denied that Obi was tricked into joining the coalition and reaffirmed his continued membership in the Labour Party. “They are trying to create distractions and disharmony,” Tanko said. “If Peter Obi is going to make any statement as regards the coalition, you will get it from him directly, from me, or from any of his aides.” Tanko emphasized that the coalition was being formed with 2027 in mind and does not affect Obi’s current affiliation with the Labour Party. “He has made it clear that he is a member of the Labour Party to protect the interest of his followers… The coalition is a coalition he is interested in for the 2027 general elections and we are in 2025,” he added. While the ADC-led coalition remains in the early stages of formation, internal power struggles and conflicting ambitions appear to be threatening its cohesion even before any formal structure has been agreed upon.

University Don Emerges New APC National Chairman

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

A Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and a former university don, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda has emerged as the new Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC). Yilwatda emerged as the consensus nominee at the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday. The Professor replaced Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who recently resigned from the position citing health concerns. Yilwatda, 56, hails from Plateau State and was the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in the state during the 2023 general elections. His nomination aligns with the party’s zoning arrangement, which allocated the national chairmanship to the North-Central geopolitical zone comprising Benue, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau states. Professor Yilwatda comes with a blend of academic, bureaucratic, and political experience. Before venturing into politics, he was an engineering lecturer at the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi. He also served as a Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) between 2017 and 2021, overseeing elections in Benue, Anambra, Osun, Rivers, and Cross River states.