Aregbesola’s Defection to ADC Is Justified – Allies Slam Yoruba Ronu, Critics Cite APC Betrayal

Supporters of former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, have fired back at critics questioning his emergence as National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing such criticism as misguided and fraudulent. In a detailed rebuttal widely circulated on Friday, Aregbesola’s allies dismissed the “Yoruba Ronu” narrative that accuses him of disloyalty to President Bola Tinubu, asserting that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had repeatedly betrayed and humiliated the former Minister of Interior long before his defection. “Aregbesola didn’t stab anyone. He was the one betrayed—stabbed politically by those he trusted, worked for, and handed over power to,” the statement said. “Trying to paint him as disloyal is like blaming Julius Caesar for being stabbed.” The group also emphasized that political opposition and contest are legitimate democratic processes, not acts of sabotage. “In a democracy, there is no such thing as working for someone’s downfall. There is political competition, and the people decide who wins,” they added, noting that Tinubu himself defeated an incumbent—Goodluck Jonathan—through such means in 2015. They also outlined a long list of perceived political persecution Aregbesola endured within the APC: “For six years, Aregbesola was dragged through humiliation and political exile. Now he’s in a new party, people suddenly remember his old ties to Tinubu. Where were they when he was being silenced and sidelined?” the statement queried. The former governor’s camp insisted the political alliance between Tinubu and Aregbesola is over, and any expectations of loyalty are misplaced. “It’s like a divorce—once it’s over, your ex’s choices are no longer your business. Aregbesola has moved on. He’s no longer in APC. Let him be.” They further described attempts to guilt-trip Aregbesola over his political choices as illogical, hypocritical, and delusional. “The man has chosen a new path where he is valued. Respect it. If APC didn’t want him, they should stop acting entitled to his political destiny now that he’s left.” The strong-worded response aims to shut down internal criticism and make it clear that Aregbesola is repositioning himself politically, with or without the blessing of his former allies.

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Coalition: Labour Party Gives Peter Obi 48-Hour Ultimatum to Resign from Party

Former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Gregory Obi has received a 48 hour ultimatum to formally resign his membership of the Labour Party having formally joined the coalition party. Labour Party while reiterating its reiterating its disinterestedness in joining the coalition, claimed members of the coalition are power mongers whose only interest was self and not the people. The party warned Nigerians that the often mouthed ‘new Nigeria is Possible’ is a ruse and cannot be achieved with the assemblage of old, recycled, desperate and frustrated politicians in the coalition. In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, the party says that all those who mismanaged Nigeria over the years are the ones that gathered themselves in the coalition while noting that desperate politicians can’t birth new Nigeria. “We are aware of several nocturnal meetings between Peter Obi and some of our members, lobbying them to join him in his new party. We’re also aware that a number of them has refused to defect with him. “Labour Party has consistently said it is not part of the coalition and therefore, any of our members who is part of the coalition is given within 48 hours to formally resign his membership of the party. “Labour Party is not available for people with dual agenda, people with deceptive persona. The party will not avail itself to individuals who have one leg in one Party and another leg elsewhere. People that in the morning, they will claim to be in the Labour Party and in the evening they are in coalition. “Nearly 70 percent of Nigerian population are youths who are tired of the old order, tired of gerontocrats deciding their fate. The new Nigeria that the youths are dreaming of, is not what can be realized from what we are seeing in the coalition. “These people are opportunistic politicians who are only interested in relaunching themselves into circle of power, people who are desperate to continue holding on to power. “The new Nigeria of our dream can only be realized through Labour Party and the party is willing to lead Nigerians along that trajectory. “I therefore urge all members of the party to remain loyal and keep the party structure intact ahead of future elections,” the statement read

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Peter Obi: Coalition Adopts ADC for 2027 Elections David Mark Named Chairman Aregbesola Secretary

Abuja — A newly formed political coalition officially adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday as its platform for contesting the 2027 General Elections, unveiling former Senate President, Senator David Mark, as National Chairman and former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary. The coalition, which brings together former members of major political parties, declared its intention to offer Nigerians a credible and compassionate alternative in the next election cycle, pledging to prioritise competence, unity, and the welfare of citizens. “This decision was not made lightly,” the group stated in its formal announcement. “It comes from deep reflection on where we are as a country and what must be done to move forward.” In a statement read at the unveiling, coalition leaders emphasised the need for collaborative sacrifice and cross-party unity, noting that “no one group can change Nigeria alone.” They stressed the urgency of building bridges across divides to dismantle systemic issues such as poverty and insecurity. The coalition’s vision aligns with the recurring call for a “New Nigeria,” a phrase frequently echoed by former presidential candidate Peter Obi, who is believed to be aligned with the movement, though his official stance remains unconfirmed. “A new Nigeria is possible,” the statement concluded. The coalition’s emergence signals a potential realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of 2027, with growing efforts among opposition figures to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

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When Mourning Becomes a Carnival a Nation Loses Its Soul – Peter Obi

In the wake of the senseless killings of over 200 innocent Nigerians in Benue State, and devastating floods in Niger State that claimed a similar number of lives, many Nigerians pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to visit the affected communities—not with pomp, but with compassion and solemnity. But the President’s recent visit to Benue has drawn widespread criticism for its tone-deaf execution, more akin to a political rally than a condolence mission. Instead of a somber and reflective presence, the President arrived in celebratory agbada, as if attending a commissioning ceremony, not a region reeling from mass death. The state government declared a public holiday, not for mourning, but seemingly to organize fanfare. Schools were shut down, and children who lost classmates and loved ones were lined up in the rain to perform songs and dances for a presidential audience. This rehearsed pageantry in the face of tragedy has sparked outrage. “Condolence visits have become carnivals,” one commentator lamented. “We are not at war, yet our nation is bleeding—and we are clapping.” Critics argue that resources expended on optics—banners, music, security logistics—could have been used to provide relief supplies, trauma counselling, and medical support for grieving communities. Citing examples from abroad, critics point out how President Ramaphosa of South Africa and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India have responded to similar crises with dignity and direct action, not staged crowds and celebration. “These were human beings—children, mothers, fathers—whose blood cries out for justice,” the statement continues. “We must ask: what kind of people have we become, when grief is met with spectacle?” As Nigeria continues to grapple with growing insecurity and environmental disasters, there are growing calls for empathy-based leadership, one that puts people before politics.

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

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

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.

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Peter Obi’s Convoy: Teenager Regains Freedom, Demands N100m Compensation

Quadri Alabi, a young Lagosian whose viral video supporting Peter Obi during the 2023 election campaign has regained freedom. The teenager, who sttod in front of Labour Party’s candidate convoy was freedd from Kirikiri months after being framed forarmed robbery. Barrister Inibehe Effiong who is the lead counsel in Quadri’s case said; “We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. PeterObi has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025. “Our client, Quadri was abducted by two ‘Area Boys’ who are notoriously known in the community as Lege and Baba Waris close to his family residence at Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area and dumped at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters (Pako Police Station) in Lagos State. “Quadri was returning from work when he was grabbed by the duo, who along with other jealous and entitled Area Boys in the community, have been harassing him and threatening to deal with him since 2023 for not giving them ‘their share’ of donations gifted him during the last elections period. “Quadri’s family informed us that the Baale of the community equally pressured them to buy a cow and rice and cook for the community to appease the Area Boys. “The abductors initially told the officers at Amukoko Police Station that our client was involved in street fighting. “To the consternation of Quadri and his family, the police on 26th January, 2025 took Quadri before a Magistrate in Apapa, and obtained an order remanding him at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri on a trumped-up charge of armed robbery. “The police fraudulently joined Quadri with four strange adults who had no form of connection or relationship whatsoever with him and claimed that the four strange men were his case mates. “As part of the diabolical frame-up of our client, the officers at Amukoko Police Station also misrepresented his age to be 18, knowing that disclosing his actual age would likely raise eyebrows. “When we were briefed by Quadri’s mother a week ago, after the matter was brought to public attention by Ms. Hassana Nurudeen, the Co-founder of Ray of Hope Prison Outreach (@Hausa_girl), we swiftly escalated the case and took necessary steps towards securing his freedom. “At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri. “In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed. “We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter. We demand that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and the Inspector General of Police, should as a matter of urgency, remove the DPO of Amukoko Divisional Headquarters and subject him to orderly room trial along with the IPO, one Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers who participated in this evil, sinister, oppressive, and corrupt scheme of framing-up a teenager for armed robbery at the behest of rogue ‘Area Boys’. “We demand that the Nigeria Police Force should pay the sum of One Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) to our client as compensation. “Also, we also demand a public apology from the police. “If the above three remedial demands are not fully complied with immediately, we shall initiate legal actions to seek redress. “Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force. “There are many Quadris languishing in detention centres across Nigeria because of the unbridled criminality, lawlessness, and lack of accountability in the Police institution and the weakness of the justice system. “History will vindicate the just.”

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Security Crisis: Obi Urges President Tinubu to Return Home and Address Domestic Challenges

Security Crisis: Obi Urges President Tinubu to Return Home and Address Domestic Challenges

Amid rising insecurity across Nigeria, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has issued a passionate call on President Bola Tinubu to suspend his ongoing retreat in France and return home to address what he described as an “overwhelming security situation.” Obi, in a strongly worded statement on Tuesday, said the President’s absence comes at a time when the nation is grappling with mounting insecurity and loss of lives, particularly in Plateau and Zamfara states. “In the two weeks you have been away, over 150 Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity across Nigeria,” he stated. “Pipeline explosions in the Niger Delta, resurging insurgency in the North-East, and rampant killings and abductions in the South-East all reflect a nation in distress.” The former Anambra State governor criticized the President for remaining abroad while the country faces worsening crises. “The CEO of the troubling company called Nigeria is retreating in a faraway land, while the headquarters is in chaos,” he added. Obi emphasized that the primary duty of any government is the protection of lives and property, noting that such a responsibility cannot be outsourced or handled from abroad. He called on President Tinubu to “rush home to take responsibility by addressing these disturbing issues,” stressing that the hope for a better Nigeria depends on leaders being present, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the people. “A New Nigeria is POssible,” Obi concluded.

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Supreme Court CTC Vindicates Abure Executive

The leadership of the Labour Party ably led by Barrister Julius Abure has been vindicated by the content of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgement between Nenadi Usman and the Labour Party. This is contained in a statement signed and made available, Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh, on Wednesday. “As promised earlier, we warned that Senator Nenadi Usman and her cohorts have been in the voyage of misleading Nigerians with wrong interpretation of the judgement of the apex court. (Attached is a copy of the CTC). “There is no where it stated that the leadership of Barrister Julius Abure led executive has elapsed or that Nenadi Usman and her National Caretaker Committee has been directed to take over the leadership of the Labour Party. “The Supreme Court emphatically stated that issues within the political party are internal affairs of the party and that party supremacy must be observed. “It is pertinent for us to state clearly that there is no vacuum in the leadership of the Labour Party. The highest organ of the party, the national convention has in March 2024 elected its leaders in line with the constitution of the party and electoral act and their tenure is subsisting,” the statement reads. The Party also warned that any meeting convened in disregard to the constitution of the party is illegal and the outcome null and void. “We are therefore warning all those involved in the illegal meeting holding in Abuja to refrain from further factionalising the party and respect the constitution of the party as we will not fail to activate the provision of the party on disciplinary actions.”

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