Former Nigerian Senator representing Abia North, Mao Ohuabunwa, has distanced himself from a communiqué purportedly released by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that accused Governor Alex Chioma Otti of financial mismanagement and alleged misuse of state allocations. According to Ohuabunwa, the controversial item five in the communiqué was a “mischievous insertion” allegedly crafted by individuals with the intent to create political tension and discredit Governor Otti’s administration. Speaking through his media office on Monday, September 1, 2025, the former Senator clarified that he had been made aware of the communiqué issued at the conclusion of the Abia North PDP stakeholders’ meeting, which was held on August 30, 2025, at his country home. Ohuabunwa explained that the communiqué, in its entirety, largely represented the spirit of unity, camaraderie, and forward-looking deliberations that marked the stakeholders’ meeting. However, he firmly maintained that item five — which allegedly questioned the performance and achievements of Governor Otti’s administration — was never discussed or agreed upon during the meeting. “For clarity’s sake, I, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, neither authored, endorsed, nor subscribed to any statement implying that the efforts of the Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, do not align with the financial inflows received by the state,” Ohuabunwa emphasized. The former lawmaker expressed disappointment at what he described as a gross misrepresentation of facts. He warned against the dangerous path of reducing politics to bitterness, propaganda, and divisive narratives. Instead, he urged political stakeholders in Abia State to embrace constructive engagement, unity, and collaboration in order to move the state forward. Ohuabunwa concluded by reminding political actors that true democracy thrives when leaders and citizens focus on developmental partnerships rather than indulging in malicious smear campaigns.
The approval of a ₦300 billion loan request for Governor Seyi Makinde by the Oyo State House of Assembly has sparked heated debates and mixed reactions across the state. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Hon. Ibraheem Shittu, a lawmaker representing the Saki West State Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC), was the first to raise alarm publicly about the loan’s approval. Shittu, who expressed dissatisfaction, argued that the loan was endorsed during the Assembly’s six-week recess, without adequate notification to all members. Lawmaker Raises Objection In his reaction, Hon. Shittu declared: “I want it to be on record that I, Hon. Shittu Ibraheem, representing Saki West State Constituency, was not part of the lawmakers who approved a ₦300 billion loan on August 19, 2025, and perfected on August 26, 2025, during an emergency sitting while the House was on recess.” He emphasized that the Assembly was on break from July 31st to September 16th, yet an unscheduled plenary was organized for the approval. Shittu questioned why such a massive loan was necessary, especially at a time when Oyo State was already experiencing increased revenue from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). His statement has generated strong reactions from citizens, civil groups, and political parties in Oyo State. House of Assembly Defends Approval In response, the Oyo State House of Assembly described Shittu as “ignorant” and accused him of rarely attending plenary sessions. A statement signed by Majority Leader, Sanjo Adedoyin, and the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Waheed Akintayo, dismissed Shittu’s claims as misleading. The lawmakers clarified that the emergency session was duly communicated on the Assembly’s official platform. They further explained that: They criticized Shittu for absenteeism, alleging that he missed crucial sittings, oversight visits, and failed to contribute meaningfully in the House. APC Raises Alarm on Debt Burden Meanwhile, the opposition APC condemned the approval, warning that the state risks financial collapse before 2027. Wasiu Olawale Sadare, APC’s Publicity Secretary, in a statement obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, argued that Gov. Makinde had already secured ₦610 billion in loans within eight months of 2025, including ₦200 billion in March and ₦110 billion from the French Treasury in July. The APC insisted that despite huge federal allocations and internally generated revenue, citizens had not felt tangible development impacts. The party accused the Assembly leadership of acting as a “rubber stamp” for the governor. Oyo Government Insists on Transparency The Oyo State Government, however, countered opposition claims. Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Makinde, stated that the facility was structured to ease repayment and support infrastructure projects. According to him: Olanrewaju insisted that Gov. Makinde’s financial management had increased the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from ₦20 billion annually in 2018 under APC to over ₦70 billion in 2025, without introducing burdensome taxes. He further argued that the APC had no moral standing to criticize, given its history of unpaid salaries, abandoned projects, and massive debts during its tenure. Civil Group Condemns Lawmakers Adding to the controversy, the Concerned Youth Movement (CYM) criticized both the governor and the House of Assembly for “mortgaging the future of unborn generations.” The group’s leaders, Pastor Tayo Adigun and Alhaji Olaide Kobomoje, urged Oyo residents and leaders to reject unjust governance. They stressed that lawmakers should act as watchdogs instead of routinely approving loans without consulting their constituents. APC Chieftain Demands Protection for Shittu In another twist, APC chieftain Barrister AbdulWaheed Olatunde Lawal expressed concerns over Hon. Shittu’s safety. In a letter obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, Lawal urged the APC to engage security agencies including the Police and DSS to prevent harassment or unlawful arrest of the lawmaker. He argued that Shittu was only fulfilling his constitutional oversight duties and warned that silencing him would damage democracy and accountability in Oyo State. Lawal advised the APC leadership to petition the National Working Committee (NWC) and even the Presidency if necessary, to protect Shittu from intimidation. Conclusion The ₦300 billion loan approval has exposed deep political divisions in Oyo State, raising questions about transparency, governance, and the long-term financial stability of the state. While the government insists it is a strategic move to sustain growth, opposition parties and civil groups maintain it is a reckless decision that endangers the future of citizens.
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The convoy of Abubakar Malami (SAN), former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, reportedly came under attack in Birnin Kebbi, the capital of Kebbi State. According to reports, the incident occurred along Old NITEL Road shortly after Malami had returned from a condolence visit to the family of the late Chief Imam of Dr. Bello Haliru Jumu’ah Mosque. Eyewitnesses revealed that a group of suspected political thugs armed with dangerous weapons ambushed the convoy, leading to chaos. Several vehicles belonging to the entourage were destroyed during the assault, heightening tension in the area. In response to the unrest, security operatives were quickly deployed to strategic locations including the attack scene, the state headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Malami’s residence. Their presence was intended to maintain order and prevent the violence from escalating further. Reacting to the incident, Malami expressed deep disappointment, describing the event as unfortunate and painful. He confirmed that “some thugs armed with dangerous weapons and stones attacked and destroyed vehicles in our convoy.” The All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Kebbi State also condemned the act of violence. The party’s Public Relations Officer, Isa Abubakar As-Salafi, stated that investigations would be carried out to identify and punish those behind the attack. He appealed to political stakeholders and supporters across the state to ensure peace and avoid actions capable of destabilizing Kebbi ahead of the political season. Meanwhile, after an emergency security meeting at the Government House, the Commissioner of Police in Kebbi State, Bello M. Sani, confirmed that a full investigation had commenced into the matter. He issued a strong warning to all political groups against organizing unauthorized campaigns or gatherings, stressing that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had not yet lifted the ban on political activities in the state. This violent episode has once again brought to the forefront concerns about political thuggery in Nigeria and its potential impact on peace and democracy. Security agencies have promised to keep the situation under control, while many citizens continue to call for restraint, vigilance, and lawful conduct from political actors and their supporters.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has engaged in a high-level private meeting with prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who are aligned with his political structure. According to reports, the crucial gathering is currently being hosted at Wike’s official residence in Abuja, the nation’s capital. The meeting commenced at exactly 8:40 pm and quickly transitioned into a closed-door session, signaling the sensitive nature of the discussions. PDP Leaders Present at the Meeting Several influential figures within the PDP were in attendance. Among them was the National Secretary of the Party, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who has been a central figure in recent internal party conversations. Also present was the National Vice Chairman for the South-South region, Chief Dan Orbih, alongside former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom. In addition, former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, and former Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, were also part of the meeting. Another notable participant was former Senator representing Rivers East, George Sekibo, accompanied by several other zonal and state chairmen of the party. Earlier Hint from Wike Earlier in the day, during his monthly media briefing, Nyesom Wike revealed that he would be meeting with certain PDP stakeholders later in the evening. His statement hinted at strategic political conversations, which this late-night session appears to confirm. The closed-door meeting comes at a time when the PDP is navigating critical internal challenges and positioning itself for relevance ahead of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. Although the agenda has not been made public, the presence of senior PDP power brokers highlights the importance of the deliberations.
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Growing anxiety surrounds the Nigerian government’s delayed payment of contractors, sparking criticism from lawmakers, stakeholders, and industry professionals who argue that the situation is harming the economy. This issue gained more attention when Obi Aguocha, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation, publicly urged the Federal Government to address the backlog of payments owed to contractors since last year. Back in June 2025, Bauchi lawmaker Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi had earlier raised alarm on the floor of the Senate over the non-payment of federal contractors since 2024, calling for a full investigation into the matter. Despite assurances from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) that payments would soon be made, the government’s pledge was not immediately honored, fueling skepticism and uncertainty among contractors and stakeholders. Stakeholders Express Frustration The delay has triggered heated reactions across different sectors. Speaking in an interview with DAILY POST, the former President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Aliyu Wammako, emphasized that the impact extends beyond contractors. According to him, the non-payment has ripple effects that touch nearly every sector of Nigeria’s economy. Wammako explained that the circulation of funds from contractors to workers, professionals, and suppliers forms the foundation of Nigeria’s economic growth. He urged the government to prioritize clearing these debts without delay so that the economy could regain momentum. He further echoed Senator Ningi’s call on the Senate floor, stressing that the Federal Government must release payments promptly to contractors to ensure capital projects continue as planned. “The non-payment of contractors by the government affects not only construction workers and service providers but the entire Nigerian economy,” Wammako said. “The funds must flow, otherwise development remains stagnant.” Federal Budget and Capital Project Concerns Reports indicate that in 2024, Nigeria spent only a small portion of the ₦24.9 trillion budget earmarked for capital projects. Similarly, the 2025 capital expenditure allocation of ₦23.96 trillion has also faced poor implementation. In June, the Senate approved another extension of the capital budget implementation, making it the second in seven months. This persistent delay has intensified criticism of the government’s handling of developmental projects. Although the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration recently defended itself against claims that capital projects were concentrated in Lagos State, stating that projects are spread across all six geopolitical zones, reports from LMSINT MEDIA confirm that none of these projects have reached 50% completion. Nigerian Government Begins Payments Amid Criticism Amid rising outrage, the Federal Government has now confirmed the commencement of contractor payments for projects under ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). According to Bawa Mokwa, spokesperson for the OAGF, clearance of outstanding debts has begun following more than a year of halted payments. However, as of the time of this report, contractors themselves are yet to confirm receipt of these funds, leaving doubts among stakeholders about the true pace of disbursement.
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Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has urged political stakeholders from the Jechira axis of Benue State to put aside political differences and rally their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the nation moves toward the 2027 general elections. The SGF made this appeal at his Maitama residence in Abuja, where he received a courtesy visit from a delegation of influential leaders from the Jechira bloc. The group comprised members representing different political affiliations, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party, and others. The delegation was led by Senator Dr. Jack Tilley-Gyado, accompanied by respected figures such as Elder Abaki Julius Korapera (Upper Jechira), Dr. Sarwuan Tarnongo (Lower Jechira), and Professor Dennis Ityavyar, who represented voices across the political spectrum. Leaders Commend Tinubu’s Choice of Akume as SGF Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Jechira leaders expressed their appreciation for President Tinubu’s appointment of Akume as SGF. They described the appointment as a recognition of Akume’s political stature and a reward for his long-standing dedication to governance. The leaders praised Tinubu’s decision, calling it “a well-deserved choice” that reflects inclusiveness and confidence in Akume’s leadership abilities. They further pledged unwavering loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration and committed themselves to mobilizing grassroots and political support for his re-election campaign in 2027. Push for Jechira’s Continued Political Relevance The Jechira delegation also highlighted Akume’s significant role in ensuring that the axis produced the current governor of Benue State. They called for the governorship seat to remain in Jechira beyond the present administration, emphasizing that other zones within the state had previously enjoyed two full terms. Additionally, they extended their appreciation to the Jemgbah leaders for consistently supporting Jechira’s political advancement over the years. Tilley-Gyado Acknowledges Tinubu’s Support for Benue In his remarks, Senator Tilley-Gyado commended President Tinubu for not only entrusting Akume with the office of SGF but also for appointing other prominent sons and daughters of Benue into key positions within his government. He acknowledged the administration’s ongoing infrastructural development projects in the state, noting that these initiatives have strengthened the people’s confidence in Tinubu’s leadership. He reiterated the bloc’s loyalty to Akume’s guidance and pledged that the Jechira people would continue to stand firmly behind the SGF’s political direction as the 2027 election approaches. Akume Reassures Leaders of Inclusive Governance Responding to the delegation, Senator Akume expressed deep gratitude for their solidarity and reassurances. He emphasized his commitment to inclusive and purposeful governance, stressing that his leadership would remain open, accommodating, and free from ill-feelings despite provocations. He encouraged unity among political stakeholders in Benue and reiterated the need to work collectively to ensure that President Tinubu’s administration succeeds in delivering development across the country.
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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has openly stated that he, alongside other top opposition leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, possesses the political strength and insider knowledge to dislodge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking during a live interview on Channels Television on Sunday, El-Rufai stressed that his deep involvement in the founding of the APC gives him an edge in understanding its weaknesses and strategies. According to the former governor, his role in the party’s creation makes him confident that he can work with other political heavyweights to retire both Tinubu and the ruling party. “We were the ones that built the APC. We know exactly where the dead body is buried. Similarly, individuals like Atiku Abubakar understand where the PDP’s weaknesses are buried. With this combined knowledge, we are in a strong position to challenge the APC effectively. We don’t necessarily need a brand-new group of people from outside the system to take on APC,” El-Rufai declared. He went further to criticize the current administration, pointing out that under President Tinubu, Nigeria’s economy has worsened, while security challenges have intensified rather than improved. Recent political alignments further emphasize this agenda. Reports from LMSINT MEDIA highlight that El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and other influential figures have thrown their support behind the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This coalition aims to present a united opposition front strong enough to unseat the ruling party in 2027. The former Kaduna leader’s statements have since sparked heated debates across political circles, as Nigerians continue to question whether the coalition can truly end APC’s dominance after nearly a decade in power.
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The Federal Government has emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains firmly committed to fairness, justice, and inclusivity in the allocation of infrastructure projects, appointments, and national opportunities across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. According to a statement released by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government dismissed speculations suggesting marginalization of certain regions, stressing instead that the Tinubu-led administration has consistently pursued balanced development and equitable distribution since assuming office. The statement highlighted that capital projects under President Tinubu’s leadership have been fairly allocated, ensuring that no region is treated as secondary or left behind. Beyond the ministries, departments, and agencies executing developmental works, each of the six zones now has a Regional Development Commission to drive growth and economic expansion tailored to local needs. Major Highway and Rail Projects The government pointed out that flagship infrastructural works demonstrate this balance. For instance: This deliberate distribution, the government stressed, ensures that no part of Nigeria is excluded from national development. Simultaneous projects are ongoing nationwide, covering highways, bridges, railways, and energy infrastructure. Specifically, light rail projects worth ₦150 billion in Kano and ₦100 billion in Kaduna have secured funding, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving public transportation. Meanwhile, Lagos and Ogun States’ metroline projects further strengthen Nigeria’s urban light rail network. Collectively, these projects are expected to generate more than 250,000 jobs nationwide, directly boosting employment opportunities. Focus on Human Capital and Social Development The administration has also revived efforts to rehabilitate the Eastern Corridor rail line from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. Over 1,000 primary health care centres have been upgraded nationwide, signaling the government’s determination to enhance human capital and social infrastructure. Regional Distribution of Projects Data from the government indicates the following allocations: Legacy Road Projects under Tinubu’s Administration The federal government listed major road projects currently underway: From the total length of these projects, 52% are situated in the North and 48% in the South. Other Major Projects in the North Key Projects in the South Notable Projects in the Southeast Developments in the South-South
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Former Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has firmly rejected the idea of returning to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, stressing that what she desires most at this stage of her life is peace. Speaking in response to ongoing speculations surrounding her husband, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and the 2027 general elections, Mrs. Jonathan stated that the current challenges facing Nigeria are overwhelming. According to her, anyone who has left such a position of power should count it as God’s grace and focus on living in peace. Quoting her words, The Guardian reported that she said: “The distress of Nigeria is so much that if God manages to bring you out of it, you should glorify Him. Why do you want to go back there? I need peace. My peace is enough.” Her statement comes amid increasing pressure on former President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his interest in the 2027 presidential election. Political observers suggest that some individuals and groups within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are working behind the scenes to persuade him to run. Adding to the discourse, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga recently advised Jonathan to disregard those urging him to contest again, reminding the public of his defeat in the 2015 general elections. Onanuga cautioned that returning to that path could expose Jonathan to unnecessary political stress. Currently, while rumors continue to spread regarding Jonathan’s possible return to politics, the former president himself has not made any official declaration on whether he will be on the ballot in 2027. Patience Jonathan’s remarks reflect a personal decision to prioritize peace of mind over political ambition, sending a clear message that she has no intention of going back to the Presidential Villa regardless of the political pressure surrounding her husband.
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Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has clarified his relationship with his successor, Governor Uba Sani, stating that the current Kaduna leader is not his personal friend but rather his mentee. El-Rufai made this statement on Sunday during an interview on Politics Today, a popular political programme on Channels Television. He emphasized that contrary to speculations, there is no rift between him and Governor Sani, but that he reserves the right to provide constructive criticism when necessary. The former governor explained that the role of government is to serve the people and advance the nation, noting that loyalty should not prevent one from speaking out when things go wrong. In his words: “The purpose of government is to deliver results for the progress of the citizens and the country. Even if my son or father is president or governor, if I believe he is not doing the right thing, I have the right to voice my disagreement or criticism.” El-Rufai further highlighted that Uba Sani is among the many individuals he has mentored over the years, stressing that one of his biggest life achievements is raising, guiding, and elevating people to positions of leadership and influence. He added: “Yes, Uba Sani is one of my mentees. I have developed and mentored many people. My greatest pride in life is that I have supported and encouraged individuals to achieve greatness, sometimes even beyond me. I am extremely proud of that. However, if a person I mentored begins to derail or takes actions that are not right, I cannot be stopped from speaking or expressing my disagreement, regardless of my role in supporting their rise.” El-Rufai’s comments come amid speculations about disagreements with the present administration in Kaduna, but he insists that his input is constructive and should be seen as guidance rather than opposition.
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Former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has openly accused his successor, Governor Uba Sani, of being behind the violent disruption that occurred on Saturday, during which he and several opposition figures in Kaduna were attacked. According to reports by LMSINT Media, the incident unfolded during the official inauguration of a transition committee organized by opposition parties in Kaduna State. The event turned chaotic when a group of suspected political thugs invaded the venue, causing disorder, destroying properties, and physically attacking attendees. Allegations by El-Rufai Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Sunday, El-Rufai alleged that there is concrete proof linking Governor Uba Sani to the attack. “I have evidence; Kaduna State Governor is behind Saturday’s attacks. I will submit evidence to the IGP and other authorities if they care to investigate,” El-Rufai stated. He emphasized that the political violence was not spontaneous but rather coordinated, insisting that he would make his evidence public if necessary. Criticism of Security Forces The former governor also expressed disappointment in Nigeria’s security system, particularly the police force, which he described as ineffective in handling the situation. According to him, security operatives were present at the venue but allegedly stood by while opposition members and their supporters came under assault. “The policing system has collapsed in Nigeria,” he lamented, stressing that law enforcement officers watched as political thugs carried out the attacks without intervention. Political Tensions in Kaduna This development highlights the growing political tension in Kaduna State, with allegations of violence, intimidation, and suppression of opposition voices becoming a recurring theme in Nigeria’s democratic landscape. Analysts believe that this incident could deepen political divisions in the state if not properly addressed.
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has successfully regained control of the political structure in Rivers State following his prolonged rift with his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. On Saturday, Wike reestablished his dominance during the local government elections organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state. The polls marked a new chapter after months of political turmoil that destabilized Rivers politics. Background of the Political Crisis Last year, at the height of the Rivers State political conflict, Governor Fubara conducted a controversial local government election. His loyalists, running under the Action Peoples Party (APP), swept through the polls, securing victory in 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions. However, this victory was short-lived. On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court nullified the election after an appeal by the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a ruling delivered by Justice Jamilu Tukur, the apex court held that the election violated an earlier Federal High Court order, which had barred RSIEC from holding council elections until the voter register was updated. Suspension of Fubara and Tinubu’s Peace Deal As tensions escalated, President Bola Tinubu intervened on March 18, 2025, declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. He suspended Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months in a bid to restore stability. A reconciliation meeting was later held at the Rivers State Government House, with President Tinubu brokering peace between Wike and Fubara. Reports confirmed that part of the agreement was to reinstate Wike’s loyalists into the local government system. This settlement eventually led to the fresh elections conducted last weekend. How Wike’s Loyalists Took Back Power Ahead of the new elections, Wike’s allies, many of them former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members, defected to the APC faction led by Chief Tony Okocha. They secured APC tickets to contest for chairmanship positions, a move political analysts believe positions Wike to dominate both APC and PDP structures before the 2027 general elections. According to reports, candidates linked to Wike ran under the APC in 20 LGAs, while three contested on the PDP platform—particularly in Obio-Akpor (Wike’s base), Port Harcourt, and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni. Although official results were yet to be released, it was evident that Wike’s loyalists were in firm control. Fubara and His Supporters Boycott Polls Governor Fubara, who is expected to return to office on September 18, 2025, was absent during the exercise. His close allies, including Chief of Staff Edison Ehie and Secretary to the State Government Dr. Tammy Danagogo, also refrained from participating. The 23 former local government chairmen removed by the Supreme Court equally boycotted the polls, further clearing the path for Wike’s camp. One of Fubara’s loyalists, speaking anonymously, said there was “no need to waste time voting since the winners were already known.” He also revealed that Fubara, currently out of the country, accepted the power shift as part of the peace agreement with Wike and President Tinubu. According to him, “Governor Fubara believes peace is more important than holding on to power. He was willing to sacrifice even his position for stability in Rivers State. But it is unprecedented that a sitting governor can be suspended by the president.” Election Apathy and Voter Frustration Despite the political maneuvering, the election witnessed low voter turnout across Rivers State. By mid-morning in Obio-Akpor LGA’s Ward 17 Unit 054, no voter had shown up. Residents expressed frustration, alleging electoral malpractice. A voter, Wisdom Kagbara, claimed ballot papers were being thumb-printed for APC candidates. Another resident, Grace Agba, said most citizens did not see the need to vote, as results had allegedly been predetermined. Many described the exercise as “a selection, not an election,” criticizing the process as a waste of resources since Wike’s victory was seen as inevitable following the agreement brokered at the national level
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The political atmosphere in Abia State witnessed a significant shift on Friday as Governor Alex Otti of Abia State officially welcomed 66 notable politicians from different political parties into the Labour Party (LP) alongside their numerous supporters. The event took place at Obehie Central School in Ukwa West Local Government Area, signaling a historic moment in the state’s political realignment. For decades, Ukwa West LGA has been the political stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where the umbrella party continuously dominated elections from 1999 up until 2023. However, the tide appears to be changing as prominent PDP members and other opposition figures have now aligned themselves with the Labour Party. Among the new entrants into LP are Adinigwe Ugochukwu Nwoke, former Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly; Ngozi Ulunwa, former Secretary to the State Government; Ralph Egbu, Uche Nwaele, Ugoeze Ogbonna, Lucky Ejiogu, and several other influential grassroots politicians. These defectors, who previously operated under the banners of PDP, APGA, and other political parties, have now pledged loyalty to Governor Otti’s vision and leadership. Governor Otti’s Remark at the Reception While addressing the crowd, Governor Otti expressed heartfelt gratitude to the new members and encouraged others who are yet to make a decision to seize the opportunity before it is too late. In his words:“I truly welcome our new members and their loyal supporters. For those who are still in doubt, I urge you to join us now before the train leaves the station.” The Governor emphasized that his administration remains committed to restoring the dignity of the Abia people. As part of this commitment, he announced plans to construct a mini-stadium in Ukwa West LGA, directing the Mayor of the Council to carry out land surveys and ensure the proposed site is fenced for immediate development. Furthermore, Otti appealed to the Obehie community to cooperate with the Inner Galaxy Company regarding the siting of a skills acquisition centre in Obehie. He stressed the need for unity and understanding, urging stakeholders to set aside disagreements over the project’s location, as the initiative is aimed at equipping youths with practical skills for self-reliance. Labour Party Leaders React Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Chairman of LP in Abia State, Nwaeze Oti, praised the Governor for his achievements since assuming office. He explained that Otti’s outstanding performance and people-focused governance are the key reasons why the Labour Party continues to attract defectors and new supporters across Abia State. With this mass defection, political analysts believe that the Labour Party is steadily consolidating power and could reshape the political dynamics of Abia State ahead of future elections.
