President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will bestow national honours upon a total of 210 former members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for their exceptional service during the 2020 to 2023 service years. This announcement was made in a recent press release issued on Saturday from Abuja by Mr. Emeka Mgbemena, the Director of Media for NYSC. According to the official statement, the Presidential NYSC Honours Award ceremony will take place on Tuesday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, signifying high-level government recognition of meritorious national youth service. Mr. Mgbemena stated that 200 of the award recipients were selected for demonstrating excellence across NYSC’s four core pillars, which include: In addition to these outstanding performers, 10 other ex-corps members who sustained various permanent disabilities while serving Nigeria will also be honoured under the NYSC Hope Alive Initiative. This initiative is part of the federal government’s efforts to ensure that no hero is left behind, especially those who were injured in the line of duty. The event is expected to host dignitaries such as the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Akinlade Nafiu, and other key members of the NYSC management team. They have all expressed anticipation in receiving the awardees and invited guests at the national event.
In a strategic alliance aimed at transforming Nigeria’s textile industry, the Ogun State Government has partnered with Arise Integrated Industrial Platform (IIP), a globally recognized industrial development group headquartered in India. Together, they have inaugurated a project implementation committee tasked with overseeing the launch of what is projected to become the largest garment production facility in Africa. This implementation team is charged with crafting a step-by-step roadmap for project execution—defining specific tasks, setting delivery deadlines, and ensuring all preparatory work aligns with the scheduled groundbreaking ceremony in September 2025. During a recent high-level meeting at the governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun warmly welcomed the delegation from Arise IIP, led by its President Mr. Gagan Gupta, alongside representatives from AFRIXEM Bank. Governor Abiodun emphasized the monumental economic transformation the initiative is expected to bring—not just to Ogun State, but to the Nigerian economy as a whole. Unveiling a Game-Changing Textile Production Capacity According to Governor Abiodun, the garment factory will boast a staggering production capability: These production metrics translate into an output of approximately 4.4 million garments every day, and are projected to create between 120,000 to 150,000 direct and indirect job opportunities for Nigerians. “This implementation committee is being set up to ensure all requirements are clearly identified, and corresponding timelines are enforced. It’s all part of our build-up to the September project launch,” said Abiodun. Reviving Nigeria’s Cotton Ecosystem One of the most exciting aspects of the project, the governor noted, is its potential to revitalize cotton farming across Nigeria—a sector that once thrived but has seen significant decline over the decades. Governor Abiodun revealed that Ogun State, known for cultivating Nigeria’s highest quality cotton, has already allocated 10 hectares of land for initial cotton development. A well-organized cotton growers’ association exists in the state, and the project aims to engage these farmers as contracted outgrowers under structured offtake agreements. “This approach gives Arise IIP full supply chain control while providing cotton farmers with reliable market access and pre-agreed purchase terms,” the governor added. Restoring Nigeria’s Status in the Global Textile Industry Governor Abiodun lamented Nigeria’s diminishing role as a leader in textile manufacturing, a title it once held with pride. However, with this $2 billion investment, Nigeria is poised to reclaim its rightful place as a textile powerhouse in Africa. The garment facility is slated to be built within the Special Agro Processing Zone, part of the planned Airport City project. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering an investment-friendly environment that has attracted international investors like Gagan Gupta and his team to commit such significant resources to Nigeria’s industrial sector. Global Expertise to Drive Local Transformation Mr. Gagan Gupta, President of Arise IIP, highlighted the company’s vast experience in textile manufacturing, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s potential to emerge as Africa’s textile capital. While acknowledging the current challenges in cotton production, he emphasized that the new facility would spur demand, incentivize local cotton farming, and open up both domestic and export opportunities. Similarly, Mr. Raja Rajaburu, CEO of ATMS, reiterated their intention to inject over $2.25 billion into the garment sector in Ogun State. The proposed facility is expected to provide 120,000 direct jobs, with indirect employment expected to be 2.5 times that number, creating a ripple effect across the value chain. “We are genuinely impressed by the infrastructure and enabling policies created by the state government. That’s why we’re committed to setting up this mega facility in Ogun,” Rajaburu noted. Positioning for Domestic and ECOWAS Market Expansion Arvind Mathor, CEO of Textiles at Arise IIP, added that the new industrial park will cater not just to domestic demand but will also serve as a gateway to regional export markets, especially within ECOWAS. He praised the supportive business climate and reaffirmed Arise’s commitment to making Ogun State a continental garment hub.
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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed a comprehensive investigation into allegations linking Commissioner for Transport, Alhaji Ibrahim Namadi, to the controversial bail of an alleged drug kingpin, Sulaiman Dan Wawu. The development followed public outrage after Namadi’s name reportedly appeared in official documents used to facilitate the suspect’s release on bail. This revelation triggered widespread criticism from residents and civil society actors over perceived political interference in a sensitive drug trafficking case. According to an official statement released on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the Kano State Government is taking the allegations with utmost seriousness and will not tolerate any actions that undermine the collective efforts against drug-related crimes in Kano State. The press statement reiterated Governor Yusuf’s strong resolve to ensure accountability and transparency. It declared unequivocally that anyone found attempting to sabotage the fight against illicit drugs and criminal activity in the state would be held accountable, regardless of their political status or influence. To conduct a neutral and detailed investigation, the governor announced the formation of a special investigative committee. This panel has been assigned to uncover all facts behind the release of Dan Wawu and present actionable recommendations based on their findings. The committee will be chaired by Aminu Hussain, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters. Other prominent members appointed to the panel include: During the inauguration of the committee, Governor Yusuf voiced concern about potential abuse of public office, especially among political appointees. He reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking, substance abuse, and all related social vices affecting the safety of Kano citizens. “We want it to be clearly understood that this administration will not shield anyone involved in actions that threaten public safety,” the governor emphasized. “Our government remains firmly committed to the war on drugs. Anyone implicated—no matter their official title—will face the full consequences under the law.” The central figure in the controversy, Dan Wawu, had been previously arrested on narcotics trafficking charges. His unexpected release—allegedly aided by high-level political interference—has raised significant alarm across Kano and has now become a matter of urgent public interest.
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Omoyele Sowore, a renowned Nigerian activist and politician, has openly criticized the recent decision by the Lagos State Government to rename certain public landmarks and streets in the state. According to a video circulating widely on social media, government officials were seen announcing the renaming of the iconic Charly Boy Bus Stop to Olamide Baddo Bus Stop. This unexpected move has sparked widespread outrage and backlash from Lagos residents and well-meaning Nigerians across the country. Many believe the action was politically motivated rather than driven by genuine urban reform or community development. In his official reaction, Sowore released a statement on Saturday expressing his disapproval. He described the renaming campaign as a xenophobic and divisive agenda, which he claims is being executed to marginalize certain ethnic communities and punish those who do not align politically with the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party in Lagos. Sowore emphasized that the strategy and manner in which these name changes are being implemented do not reflect an ordinary urban development exercise. Instead, he sees it as a deliberate political maneuver aimed at furthering a tribal and exclusionary narrative in one of Nigeria’s most ethnically diverse cities. Highlighting the broader implications, Sowore stated unequivocally that Lagos is not the property of any particular ethnic group, urging for the immediate reversal of the decision. He called on citizens to resist what he described as an increasing trend of authoritarianism disguised as civic policy. “These changes must be undone immediately,” he demanded.“The people of Lagos and Nigeria at large should stand against this silent drift into ethnic division masked as public order,” Sowore concluded.He firmly added: “We will not sit back quietly while Lagos is turned into a tool for tribal, political, or ideological marginalization.”
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The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, led by its Chairman MacDonald Ebere, has officially congratulated Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his emergence as the new National Chairman of the party. In his message, Ebere described Yilwatda as a well-grounded technocrat and visionary political strategist, with whom he has shared a long-standing and productive partnership. He emphasized that Yilwatda’s elevation comes at a pivotal moment, one that will reposition the party for grassroots development and institutional transformation ahead of the 2027 elections. According to Ebere, Yilwatda’s unwavering dedication to the core principles of the APC and his innovative mindset make him a unifier—someone capable of strengthening internal cohesion across party levels nationwide. The statement, released to the media by Ebere’s media aide, Julian Chijioke, followed the conclusion of the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Ebere extended profound gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and APC National Leader, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his steady leadership and facilitation of what he described as a smooth transition process that preserved stability within the party at the national level. In the same breath, Ebere praised Governor Hope Uzodinma, who doubles as the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, for his steadfast loyalty and instrumental role in rallying consensus among stakeholders that led to Yilwatda’s emergence through unity and collective purpose. Highlighting Governor Uzodinma’s leadership influence, Ebere stressed that his role in enabling Yilwatda’s rise illustrates his bridge-building efforts beyond the Southeast region, strengthening national integration within the party. Furthermore, the Imo APC Chairman acknowledged the tireless contributions of APC stakeholders across the national, state, and ward levels, appreciating their loyalty, resilience, and commitment to the party’s vision and mission. He encouraged them to maintain their resolve as the APC steers the nation toward a path of democratic renewal and economic revival. “As we advance towards the 2027 general elections, I assure Nigerians that the APC, under the able leadership of President Tinubu and our newly appointed National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, will remain committed to fulfilling its promises and driving national development,” Ebere declared.
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Alhaji Aminu Yakubu-Ladan, the Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Area (LGA) in Niger State, has instituted legal proceedings against the Niger State Government over an alleged unconstitutional attempt to reduce the tenure of democratically elected local government officials. The council chairman has taken the matter to the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, challenging the legitimacy of the Niger State Local Government Law, 2001, which recently amended the tenure of local government chairmen and councillors from four years to three years. In the suit, Yakubu-Ladan is asking the court to rule that this amendment is invalid, arguing that it violates the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act of 2022. His claim centers on Section 29 (2) of the amended Local Government Law, which he believes contradicts superior national legislation. According to the court documents, the suit was officially filed on July 11, 2025, by his counsel, Chris Udeoyibo, under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1370/2025. The chairman is asking the court to interpret eight key constitutional issues that revolve around the legality and applicability of the state’s amended local government law. The lawsuit lists several key institutions as defendants, including: As part of the reliefs sought, Yakubu-Ladan is requesting a court injunction to suspend all preparations for the November 1, 2025, local government elections throughout the state. He is demanding that the elections should not proceed until the full four-year tenure of currently elected chairmen and councillors is completed, as originally stipulated before the controversial amendment. He further urges the court to issue an order barring both INEC and the IGP from providing any form of logistical or security support for the planned elections, claiming such action would undermine the constitutional rights of elected officials. Despite these concerns, the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC) has already fixed the local government elections for November 1, a decision that has raised tensions and attracted criticism from various political stakeholders. As at the time of reporting, the case has not yet been assigned to a specific judge.
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A respected Lagos State chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, has reaffirmed that the outcome of the recently concluded National Executive Council (NEC) meeting proves that the PDP remains stable and united, contrary to some political speculations. Dr. Pearse, who was previously a member of the Atiku Abubakar 2023 Presidential Campaign Committee and is also the Convener of the Reset Lagos PDP Movement, made these remarks on Friday in Lagos following the party’s NEC meeting held in Abuja. The high-level NEC meeting concluded on Thursday, with resolutions that include fixing the PDP’s national elective convention for November 15 and 16, 2027, in Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State. PDP Not Facing Any Internal Crisis — Pearse Affirms Responding to inquiries, Dr. Pearse confidently stated that the party remains structurally sound and is not experiencing the kind of internal disintegration seen in some rival political organizations. “There’s absolutely nothing wrong with the PDP. Unlike many other political entities, our party is deeply rooted in a well-established foundation,” Pearse said. Drawing a metaphor from family life, Pearse compared internal party disagreements to disputes in a marriage. “Just like in any marriage, disagreements can arise and be resolved. Jumping from one relationship to another doesn’t guarantee a better outcome. In fact, it may end up being worse or even disastrous.” According to him, the success of the NEC meeting clearly signals that the PDP is regaining its rightful place within Nigeria’s political landscape. “We conducted our NEC meeting in a democratic fashion. Unlike certain parties where leaders are imposed, the PDP elects its leaders through due process. That’s the true essence of democracy. Our party is making progress and everything is back on track.” “Those who left the PDP are disoriented and have made hasty, miscalculated decisions. The PDP is restored and ready,” Pearse added. Zoning the Presidential Ticket to the South: A Strategic Decision Pearse went further to highlight the significance of the NEC’s decision to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the Southern region. He described it as a strategic masterstroke that could challenge the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “This zoning arrangement is the only viable strategy to defeat the incumbent president come 2027,” he emphasized. Pearse Says ADC Lacks the Strength to Compete Dr. Pearse also addressed the issue of opposition figures defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the platform recently adopted by several political stakeholders. He expressed serious doubt about the party’s ability to gain any significant political traction. “The ADC lacks the necessary national structure and presence to be a formidable force in the upcoming elections. Those who defected from PDP to ADC will soon realize the misstep and come back.” Atiku’s Political Gambit Is Risky — Pearse Speaking on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s exit from the PDP, Pearse expressed concern over what he perceives as a string of poor political decisions made by the veteran politician. “Atiku will surely win the ADC’s presidential primary, but he has no realistic path to winning the national election under that party’s banner. His frequent party switches have seriously eroded his political credibility.” Pearse added that Atiku’s departure would have no meaningful impact on the PDP’s strength or strategy. “Atiku is only damaging his own legacy. His political instincts seem flawed at this point,” he noted. PDP’s 101st NEC Meeting Marks New Direction The PDP’s 101st NEC meeting, held in Abuja, brought together party stakeholders from across the country. The discussions focused on internal reforms, strategic alignment, and preparations for the 2027 general election. With the conventions scheduled for later in the year and a renewed vision, the PDP appears to be charting a new course as it aims to reclaim its place in Nigeria’s political hierarchy.
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Adeleke’s Adviser Labels Oyetola the “Weakest Opponent” Ahead of 2026 Polls Muniru Raji, the Special Adviser on Political Matters to Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has dismissed the chances of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial election, branding him as the least formidable opponent for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun. Speaking during a recent episode of Lero Temi, a popular podcast in Osogbo, Raji stated that if the All Progressives Congress (APC) fields Oyetola, now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, he would suffer another decisive defeat at the hands of Adeleke. This remark comes in the context of recent developments surrounding Adeleke’s alleged defection and the Osun State PDP’s unexpected show of support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid. “Oyetola is the easiest opponent to defeat in any governorship race. Should the APC present him again, Governor Adeleke will defeat him convincingly, just as he did in 2022,” Raji affirmed. No Plans for Defection – Adeleke Committed to PDP Raji further clarified that Governor Adeleke has no intention of leaving the PDP, regardless of the ongoing political realignments in Osun. He highlighted the reality of frequent defections in Nigerian politics and pointed out that when Adeleke took office, every elected official was from the APC, not the PDP. “Defections happen all the time. But at the time Governor Adeleke assumed office, all elected public officials in Osun were APC members,” he said. He also emphasized that the loyalty of voters carries more weight than the actions of elected officials who may defect, adding that Adeleke still enjoys the strong backing of the grassroots. “Officeholders are not as significant as the voters. Since 2018, Adeleke has enjoyed unwavering support from the people, and that hasn’t changed going into 2026.” Adeleke to Run for Re-Election on PDP Platform Confirming that Adeleke will indeed contest again under the PDP, Raji dismissed speculation about internal strife within the party’s national leadership, particularly the dispute over the National Secretary’s position. “The issue involving the PDP National Secretary has been resolved. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has affirmed its position, and Adeleke remains with the PDP.” Rumors of APC Meetings Debunked Raji also rejected the claims that Governor Adeleke held meetings with APC stakeholders, reiterating that no such conversations took place. “Governor Adeleke has not met with any APC members, contrary to what’s being speculated.” However, in a surprising twist, Raji noted that both Adeleke and the Osun PDP would back President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid in 2027, not out of party loyalty, but due to ethnic solidarity and political strategy. “Adeleke and the PDP in Osun will support President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. His support from the North is diminishing, and we’re standing with him because he is a Yoruba son from the South.”
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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he termed interference in opposition affairs, while neglecting Nigeria’s deepening economic and security challenges. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Paul Ibe, Atiku condemned Tinubu’s recent remarks about the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made during the 14th APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. The former vice president alleged that President Tinubu is manipulating state resources and institutions to disrupt opposition parties—an action Atiku described as a deliberate strategy aimed at turning Nigeria into a single-party state. According to the statement, Tinubu is prioritizing his ambition for re-election in 2027, while ignoring the suffering of Nigerian citizens. “Instead of interfering with the affairs of the ADC, President Tinubu should focus on mending the widening divide between himself and Vice President Kashim Shettima, and urgently address Nigeria’s deteriorating economic landscape,” the statement said. Atiku’s media aide further denounced the presidency’s alleged misuse of public funds to sow discord within opposition ranks, calling it an unproductive and unethical waste of national resources. The statement also pointed fingers at Tinubu’s administration for inciting tensions among supporters of Atiku and Peter Obi within the broader opposition alliance, describing it as a calculated move that failed to achieve its goal. “It is now public knowledge that the rift between Atiku and Peter Obi’s supporters was intentionally ignited by the presidency. Fortunately, that plot collapsed. The alliance has healed, and we are more unified than before,” the statement emphasized. In his broader assessment of Tinubu’s government, Atiku slammed the current administration as ineffective and disconnected from Nigeria’s urgent realities. He cited increased levels of insecurity, food scarcity, and worsening poverty as indicators of failed leadership. Atiku also alleged that the presidency was deploying anti-corruption agencies and other government institutions as tools of coercion to intimidate and pressure opposition figures into joining the APC. In conclusion, the former vice president urged President Tinubu to stop focusing on political gamesmanship and instead channel his energy toward tackling the real problems facing Nigeria.
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In a sharp criticism directed at the newly formed opposition front under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the alliance as a “coalition of confusion.” The statement was made during the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which took place on Thursday in Abuja. At the same gathering, Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was officially announced as the new national chairman of the APC. President Tinubu used the opportunity to propose that the APC congresses be rescheduled to December 2025. He explained that the delay would provide an opportunity for more opposition members to join the ruling party, signaling a strategic political move to widen APC’s influence ahead of the next general elections. In a veiled jab at his opponents, Tinubu stated: “It’s not a bad idea to jump off a sinking ship or to stay away from a coalition of confusion.” According to LMSINT MEDIA, some of Tinubu’s main political opponents, namely Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar of the People’s Democratic Party, are prominent members of the ADC-led opposition coalition. This new bloc has openly declared its intention to challenge Tinubu’s presidency and unseat him in the 2027 general elections.
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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially announced a new date for its much-anticipated elective national convention, confirming that the event will now hold in November 2025. Initially planned for August 2025, the national convention has been postponed and will now take place in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. This announcement was made public on Thursday by Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, during the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. Ologunagba clarified that while Kano State was previously scheduled to host the convention, logistical and strategic considerations have led to the decision to shift the venue to Ibadan. In a related development, Umar Iliya Damagum, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, revealed a positive shift within the party ranks. According to Damagum, many of the members who previously aligned with a political coalition have begun to return to the PDP. He further emphasized that those members admitted they never truly abandoned the party, but had merely attended a few coalition meetings. Damagum referred to the coalition as a “failed political experiment,” expressing confidence that the PDP remains the only political platform with the national presence, credibility, and legacy needed to reposition Nigeria. He reassured the party faithful that the PDP is strategically prepared to wrest power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming general elections. He maintained that the party’s grassroots structure and national spread are unmatched, making it the only viable alternative to the APC-led government.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially revealed his administration’s intention to construct a new All Progressives Congress (APC) national secretariat in Abuja. Speaking during the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Thursday at the State House Conference Centre, Tinubu called on the APC National Working Committee (NWC), the Progressive Governors’ Forum, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to jointly collaborate on executing the new secretariat project. “We are going to identify a suitable plot of land to erect a state-of-the-art national secretariat,” Tinubu affirmed. The President emphasized the need to form a dedicated committee responsible for identifying a suitable location and managing the construction process of the proposed APC national headquarters. At present, the party operates from its existing office at 40 Blantyre Crescent, Wuse 2, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. In another development during the NEC meeting, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda was formally sworn in as the APC’s new National Chairman. The newly appointed chairman, a former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and previous APC governorship candidate in Plateau State, received his nomination from Governor Hope Uzodimma and was seconded by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.
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Fresh controversy has erupted surrounding the recent involvement of Peter Obi, the former Labour Party (LP) presidential flag bearer, in a newly formed opposition coalition reportedly coordinated by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reports now suggest that Obi, the ex-governor of Anambra State, was allegedly misled into aligning with the coalition, raising widespread concerns over internal power play. As speculation mounts, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is increasingly being seen as a leading candidate to clinch the ADC’s 2027 presidential ticket. This comes amid strong indications that he intends to contest again in the next general elections, as observed by LMSINT MEDIA. While addressing a public audience recently, Atiku declared emphatically, “I swear to God, if elected, anyone caught in corrupt acts will face the full wrath of the law. There will be no mercy.” In contrast, Peter Obi has maintained that his presidential ambition remains centered on a one-term tenure, promising to hand over power as soon as the term ends. “I have not been part of any discussions on joint tickets, including with Atiku. If any agreement mandates a four-year term, I will honor that commitment and vacate office by May 28, 2031—not the 29th, but the 28th,” Obi emphasized. Obi Allegedly Misled Into Coalition Dr. Katchy Ononuju, who served as Obi’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs during the 2023 elections, revealed that the former Anambra governor was allegedly tricked into joining the ADC coalition under the illusion that he would be positioned as its presidential candidate. In a conversation with LMSINT MEDIA, Ononuju revealed that the coalition was a strategic ploy to lure Obi into a premature alliance. “They told Peter Obi to go ahead and register, promising that after the coalition’s inauguration, they would zone the presidency to the South and begin negotiations for him to emerge as the candidate. I warned him. These people are not sincere,” Ononuju stated. He continued, “I co-founded the Obidient Movement with Doyin Okupe. After trying to convince the PDP on zoning principles, we decided to support Obi’s leadership. That is why the Obidient Movement came into being. But I told Obi clearly that if he aligns with an arrangement that suppresses our collective vision, we will not support it.” Highlighting the insignificance of the Vice Presidency, he added, “Being Vice President means political silence. Look at Shettima, Osinbajo, or even Jonathan in the early years. Their voices were suppressed.” Accusations Against Atiku on Zoning Betrayal As Director General of the Heritage Centre, a think tank focused on governance and public policy, Ononuju accused Atiku of manipulating the zoning arrangement by refusing to honor the power rotation to the South. “Atiku once said the presidency should rotate to the South and Southeast. Why is he now resisting it? That’s why I warned Obi. The coalition was a trap. Obi even made a veiled reference during a recent Channels TV interview, confirming the ADC as a ‘future prospect,’ but stated he remains in his party—for now. The damage, however, was already done.” Ononuju further alleged that Atiku had already begun outlining his policy agenda, showing he intends to be the flag bearer. “ADC is Atiku’s political construct. There’s no room for negotiation. Once again, Obi is facing deception. Without caution, he could be politically sidelined,” he warned. Peter Obi’s Political Future at Risk if He Becomes Vice President Ononuju insisted that should Peter Obi agree to serve as a Vice President on any ticket, he would lose the support of Nigerian youths and suffer political extinction. He said, “Obi will be politically dead if he becomes anyone’s running mate. Nigerian youths will abandon him. Vice Presidents don’t have a voice—ask Osinbajo or Shettima. History shows that once you’re degraded as VP, you can’t recover.” Recalling the origins of Obi’s candidacy, he said, “Initially, Obi declined to run, remaining loyal to Atiku. But I reached out to Doyin Okupe, and we pushed the southern agenda until Obi agreed to run. Now, if he goes back on that, the youth base will walk away.” Ononuju: Atiku Built ADC Coalition for Himself Ononuju reaffirmed that the ADC coalition was a strategic framework built by Atiku and not designed for power sharing. “To be fair, ADC was built by Atiku. Why would he build a coalition just to hand over the candidacy to someone else?” he asked. He added, “This isn’t just about removing Tinubu. You must ask—remove him for what? Without a sound replacement strategy, you’re only recycling power among elites.” Ononuju described how the last campaign was structured along ethnic lines, engaging minority groups such as the Igalas, Ebiras, Babur, and Tiv in grassroots dialogue. “That’s why Peter Obi gained traction—he didn’t rely on one ethnic bloc. He appealed to all,” he said. Obidient Movement Reacts: “There’s No Truth in the Deception Claim” Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, has dismissed the allegations that Peter Obi was misled into the ADC coalition. Tanko told LMSINT MEDIA that such reports are false and meant to derail the movement’s focus. “These are distractions. If Obi ever makes a statement on the coalition, it will come from him, myself, or a verified aide. There’s no truth in these claims. Obi believes in collective leadership that uplifts education, healthcare, and economic growth,” Tanko noted. Peter Obi Is Still in Labour Party; 2027 Coalition Is Strategic Tanko reaffirmed that Obi remains committed to the Labour Party and clarified that any coalition effort is strictly for the 2027 general elections. “He is still in the Labour Party to protect his followers and candidates under the platform. The coalition is a future arrangement for 2027. Right now, Obi is LP,” he concluded.
