Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has strongly criticized certain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for collaborating with the emerging opposition coalition which recently adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political vehicle. During his speech at the PDP Stakeholders Conference held on Wednesday in Abuja, the governor made it clear that individuals cannot claim dual political loyalty. He emphasized that one cannot maintain membership in the PDP while simultaneously aligning with another political coalition. Mohammed, who also serves as the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, stated that the party must address what he described as a growing trend of indiscipline among some members. According to him, party loyalty must be singular and undivided. “Indiscipline cannot be normalized to the extent that it spreads like a disease. Being in PDP means you’re committed to PDP alone. You cannot have one foot in PDP and the other in a coalition or another party,” Governor Mohammed declared. He continued by describing the idea of forming or joining a coalition while still in the PDP as abnormal, stressing that such dual loyalty is incompatible with political integrity. “We won’t tolerate this. Coalition membership while being in PDP is a political anomaly. That’s my position. You can’t hold dual allegiance. Politically speaking, you can’t be both male and female—you must choose one identity,” he asserted. Several of the founding members of the PDP supported the governor’s remarks, affirming that no one should profess loyalty to the party while simultaneously promoting the agenda of rival political movements. According to a report by LMSINT MEDIA, the PDP has been entangled in internal disputes for more than two years. The latest fallout occurred last week when its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, officially withdrew from the party. The former Vice President cited irreconcilable differences as the reason behind his exit, stating that the party’s current direction sharply contrasts with the original principles and values upon which it was founded. In a related development, former Senate President David Mark also left the PDP prior to Abubakar’s resignation. Mark has now been appointed the interim chairman of the ADC, the platform chosen by the newly formed opposition coalition.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu engaged in a crucial meeting on Wednesday night with state governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) umbrella. Sources close to the development suggest the meeting is directly tied to the APC’s forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) gathering scheduled for Thursday. During this pivotal session, President Tinubu is anticipated to relay his official stance to the party’s governors concerning internal leadership matters. At the heart of the NEC meeting lies the pressing task of selecting a new National Chairman to replace Abdullahi Ganduje, who vacated the position in June. Following Ganduje’s resignation, the Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, stepped into the role in an interim capacity. While political analysts have speculated that the NEC might formalize Dalori’s position and provide him with a definitive period to organize a formal convention to elect a permanent party leader, alternative viewpoints suggest President Tinubu could nominate a permanent chairman during the same meeting. This decision could shape the direction and stability of the ruling party as it prepares for key political transitions.
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Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Nigerian Senate, has firmly denied the circulating claims that the Senate has approved the formation of 12 additional states across Nigeria. Addressing the issue, Akpabio expressed deep concerns about the growing misuse of social media across the continent, cautioning that such trends could potentially lead to societal destruction if left unchecked. In recent days, various social media platforms were flooded with reports suggesting that the Nigerian Senate had reached a consensus on the creation of 12 new states. The news ignited heated debates among citizens, sparking both support and criticism across different communities and political lines. However, Senator Abdul Ningi took to the Senate floor on Monday to categorically debunk the reports. He clarified that the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review had not made any such recommendations. According to him, the widespread news was not only false but also highly misleading and harmful. Senator Ningi stated: “I serve as a member of the Constitution Review Committee. Let me make it clear that our zonal reports have not even been submitted to the central committee handling the main review. Therefore, the viral social media claims that the National Assembly has finalized or even proposed the creation of 12 new states are entirely fake, dangerous, and utterly irresponsible.” He further emphasized that: “There has been no plenary discussion or deliberation on any zonal committee report. The main constitutional review committee has not received or considered any such proposal yet.” Following up on this clarification, Senate President Akpabio voiced his disappointment over how easily false information spreads via social media. He used the opportunity to address broader concerns about the platform’s influence on governance and society. “My concern is that the misuse of social media by Africans may end up tearing our societies apart,” Akpabio warned. “It has gotten to the point where people fabricate fake government documents, such as appointment letters, just to mislead the public or cause confusion—claiming, for example, that someone declined a political appointment when that’s entirely untrue.” Akpabio’s remarks underline growing anxieties among public officials about the disruptive power of misinformation, particularly when amplified through digital platforms that lack robust fact-checking measures.
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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, remains officially suspended from the Nigerian Senate and will not be allowed to resume duties until the National Assembly reconvenes from its two-month recess. This confirmation was made by Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday. The clarification came shortly after the embattled senator was prevented from participating in plenary sessions at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. “We are not in the entertainment industry; we are lawmakers with serious national responsibilities,” Adaramodu explained. “Initially, the situation began like a minor issue, but it has now evolved into a dramatic production. The suspension stands and will remain until the Senate reconvenes after the recess,” he emphasized. Senator Natasha was initially suspended in March 2025, following a controversial incident involving a disagreement over seat allocation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The matter escalated when she alleged sexual misconduct against the Senate President—claims which Akpabio has vehemently denied. Despite her suspension, Senator Natasha attempted to return to Senate proceedings on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, but was denied access and prevented from taking part in legislative duties.
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Judith Amaechi, wife of Nigeria’s former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has firmly denied accusations made by the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that she received ₦4 billion each month from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for women’s training and empowerment programs. She dismissed the statement as “unfounded and ridiculous.” In a detailed rebuttal issued on her behalf, Mrs. Amaechi also condemned Wike’s claim that she was implicated in a corruption-related investigation involving the NDDC. She described the accusation as a calculated attempt at character assassination intended to gain political mileage. Both political figures — Wike and Rotimi Amaechi — have deep roots in the political landscape of Rivers State, an oil-producing region in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. The duo once shared similar affiliations, having each served as governor of the state. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Rotimi Amaechi governed Rivers State between May 2007 and May 2015. His tenure ended when Wike succeeded him and completed his own eight-year term in office. Since then, the once-cordial relationship between the two political heavyweights has deteriorated into open rivalry, often marked by public accusations and counter-accusations. In a recent interview aired in early July 2025, Nyesom Wike alleged that Mrs. Amaechi had received a total of ₦48 billion — ₦4 billion monthly — from the NDDC to fund empowerment programs for women in the region. However, responding through her spokesperson, Dike Bekwele, on Tuesday, Judith Amaechi denied ever receiving such funds from the NDDC. Bekwele insisted there was “no shred of truth” in Wike’s claim against Mrs. Amaechi or the NGO she founded, the Empowerment Support Initiative (ESI). “Dame Judith Amaechi has neither received nor benefited from any ₦4 billion monthly allocation from the NDDC,” Bekwele clarified. He elaborated that ESI’s partnership with the NDDC was a mutual arrangement aimed at co-sponsoring human capital development programs, especially for youths and women in the Niger Delta. According to him, the initiative focused on boosting small business owners, including nano and micro enterprises, through capacity-building and entrepreneurship training. Bekwele criticized Wike’s remarks as not only misleading but also defamatory. He argued that there has been no official release of any forensic audit report from the NDDC indicting Mrs. Amaechi or ESI. “For Mr. Wike to publicly claim that ESI or Dame Judith was mentioned in a supposed NDDC forensic audit — which has yet to be made accessible to Nigerians — is completely reckless. The accusation is baseless, absurd, and clearly an invention of Wike’s imagination,” the statement read. Mrs. Amaechi, undeterred by the allegations, challenged Wike to present the version of the audit report that allegedly links her or her foundation to any form of misconduct. She maintained her innocence and urged the public to disregard what she termed politically motivated propaganda.
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has disclosed that the country experiences an annual financial drain exceeding $18 billion due to illicit financial flows and profit shifting schemes often executed by multinational companies operating within its borders. This revelation was made by Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of State for Finance, during her address at the National Conference on Illicit Financial Flows, which was convened by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). While delivering her speech, the minister expressed concern over the increasing volume of unlawful financial activities affecting the country’s economic structure. She described these flows as a concealed mechanism silently siphoning Nigeria’s collective resources. According to Dr. Uzoka-Anite, these unauthorized transactions significantly reduce government revenue, thereby preventing the execution of essential infrastructure projects and services that benefit the populace. She emphasized, “Illicit financial flows are not merely technical challenges; they represent political, developmental, and national security threats. These illicit practices are an economic menace that must be decisively eliminated.” The Minister highlighted that Nigeria suffers substantial financial setbacks due to multinational entities engaged in profit manipulation and tax evasion, especially in sectors with high foreign participation. “It is currently estimated that Nigeria forfeits roughly $18 billion every year as a result of tax avoidance strategies and profit misrepresentation by international corporations active in Nigeria,” she said. She further noted that massive capital is routinely transferred out of the country, pointing out that such illegal transfers drain Nigeria of the financial capacity required to support fundamental public services. “Through the Renewed Hope initiative spearheaded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is now undertaking comprehensive, peaceful reforms to construct an economically stable and self-sufficient nation anchored on revenue generation rather than loan dependency,” she remarked. She also addressed the volatility of Nigeria’s historical dependence on oil revenues, describing it as unsustainable and unstable. The ongoing reforms, she stated, are geared towards diversifying the revenue stream by turning attention to non-oil revenue sources. During the event, Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, the Executive Chairman of FIRS, also voiced the urgency of protecting Nigeria’s national financial assets. He stressed the need to cultivate a robust and fair economic future, noting the harmful consequences of illicit financial outflows on the country’s macroeconomic balance. However, he voiced optimism, saying the current administration under the President’s Hope Agenda marks a pivotal transition into fiscal transformation. Adedeji revealed that the recent approval of four key tax reform legislations reflects the government’s intent to restructure the nation’s tax administration and legal frameworks, while promoting transparency in revenue processes. “Reforming tax laws is only the foundation. It’s imperative to strengthen enforcement, improve digital tax compliance mechanisms, and earn public trust through fairness, transparency, and strategic communication,” he explained. He added that the FIRS is actively deploying multi-pronged strategies to tackle these issues. Their broader objective, he said, is to cultivate a taxation culture driven by public trust and voluntary compliance, rather than fear or coercion. “We are designing a revenue system that is forward-thinking, secure, and highly intelligent,” Adedeji concluded.
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The Zamfara State Government has reiterated its strong resolve to combat banditry and other escalating security challenges, following a critical meeting of top security stakeholders held in Gusau on Monday. The high-profile security meeting was convened by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Malam Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, and brought together leaders from various security forces as well as key state officials. The aim was to conduct a thorough review of the region’s existing security structure and foster deeper cooperation among different agencies to tackle criminal threats effectively. Present at the meeting was the Deputy Governor, Malam Mani Malam Mummuni, whose attendance further affirmed the state administration’s unshakable dedication to restoring peace, safeguarding lives, and ensuring the protection of property in all communities across Zamfara. Ten Strategic Recommendations to Strengthen Security As disclosed by Suleman Ahmad Tudu, the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the SSG, the attendees at the meeting unanimously adopted ten strategic recommendations. These are targeted at enhancing coordination among agencies, streamlining intelligence sharing, and increasing operational efficiency to counter criminal networks, especially armed bandit groups terrorizing the state. During his address, SSG Nakwada denounced the recent wave of attacks that devastated several rural settlements and extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families. He emphasized that the government remains unwavering in its mission to reestablish full security and stability in every locality across Zamfara. “Security threats are evolving rapidly, and we must respond with unified and flexible tactics. Our administration is fully aligned with all security agencies to guarantee that Zamfara regains its status as a safe state,” Nakwada declared. Call for Unified Action Against Bandits In his closing address, Deputy Governor Mummuni reaffirmed the necessity of unified action among all arms of security enforcement. He stressed the importance of keeping up momentum until the menace of banditry is eliminated. “We cannot afford to leave any part of our beloved state vulnerable. The urgency of the moment demands immediate and sustained action,” he asserted. The renewed strategy by the Zamfara Government is widely seen as a bold move to end the longstanding insecurity that has plagued the region and to send a strong message to criminal elements that the state is no longer a safe haven for lawlessness.
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In a strategic move to resolve persistent challenges in the Ogun State contributory pension system, Governor Dapo Abiodun has officially inaugurated a 25-member Pension Funds Management Committee dedicated to addressing irregularities and non-remittance issues associated with the state and local government pension schemes. The newly formed committee, which was inaugurated on Tuesday, is jointly chaired by Mrs. Arinola Adetayo and Mr. Olufisan Osiyale. It draws members from key bodies including the Bureau of State Pensions and the Bureau of Local Government Pensions. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the committee has been mandated to provide both administrative and expert guidance on the proper functioning of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). Their responsibilities include monitoring the implementation process, reviewing updates, and analyzing policy directives from the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) for timely and effective application in the state’s pension framework. Committee’s Duties and Focus The committee is expected to ensure the prompt remittance of both employer and employee contributions into designated pension accounts. In addition, they will assess reports from Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs), engage with independent auditors, actuarial consultants, and legal professionals as needed, and offer strategic advice on managing pension-related risks. Another core responsibility is to improve employees’ understanding of their pension entitlements, ensuring transparency and confidence in the system. The committee’s overarching goal is to stabilize and enhance the CPS in Ogun State by applying global best practices and ensuring compliance with established pension laws. Background: Workers’ Strike and Pension Law Criticism It is noteworthy that this intervention follows a 7-day industrial strike staged by state and local government workers. Their protest centered on the state’s failure to remit contributory pension funds over the years. A major demand was the suspension of the Ogun State Pension Reform Law, which, according to union leaders, has failed to meet expectations. Reports indicate that a staggering ₦82 billion in pension remittances remains unpaid by successive administrations over the past 17 years. In response, Governor Abiodun has committed to beginning immediate pension payments for all public workers scheduled to retire starting July 2, 2025, under the Contributory Pension Scheme. He acknowledged that the older pension model was marred by deep structural issues, such as mounting debts, excessive delays, and a heavy reliance on annual budget releases, making it unreliable for retirees. Governor’s Vision for Pension Reforms During his address at the committee inauguration ceremony held at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the governor made it clear that pension reform is not merely a goodwill gesture but a constitutional, ethical, and financial obligation. He called on the committee members to maintain integrity, accountability, and transparency in all activities, emphasizing the pivotal role they play in shaping a secure retirement future for civil servants. Governor Abiodun further clarified that the formation of the committee aligns with Section 19, Paragraph 2 of the Ogun State Pension Reform Law of 2006, and stems from a Memorandum of Action signed with organized labor unions following negotiations. He stated: “This committee comprises representatives of both the State Bureau of Pensions and the Bureau of Local Government Pensions. Your work is monumental and purposeful—you are entrusted with the retirement future of thousands of diligent public servants across the state.” The governor emphasized the moral obligation to ensure retirees who have served Ogun State with dedication enjoy their retirement with dignity and peace of mind. Labour Leaders Acknowledge Government’s Step Governor Abiodun also extended his appreciation to labor leaders for their decision to suspend the industrial action. He praised their commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution, viewing it as a testament to their patriotism and trust in the government’s reform agenda. In a show of appreciation, Mr. Olufisan Osiyale, who chairs the Local Government Pensions Committee, expressed gratitude to the governor for his confidence in their abilities. He pledged that the committee would work in collaboration with all stakeholders to successfully deliver on their mandate and rebuild trust in the state’s pension system.
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The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to authorize thorough investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) into disturbing allegations of land misappropriation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). According to NACAT, there are strong claims that parcels of land within the FCT are being unlawfully distributed to both immediate and extended relatives of individuals currently occupying public offices. The group emphasized that such unethical practices are unacceptable and urged the president to take immediate action. In a press release jointly signed by Fejiro Oliver and Tega Samson, co-founders of the organization, NACAT called for decisive action against those implicated in the illegal allocation of Abuja lands. The group further demanded the prompt dismissal of any public official found culpable in this ongoing abuse of power. NACAT Condemns Presidential Silence Amid FCT Land Diversion Allegations The organization expressed concern over what it described as President Tinubu’s silence regarding the alleged misconduct. It noted that the presidency’s failure to address the matter has only emboldened those engaging in unethical land distribution. NACAT insisted that the practice of allocating FCT lands to relatives of government officials without due process must stop, warning that the group would not remain passive while the capital territory is allegedly being stripped of its public resources through nepotism and corruption. “It is highly troubling that President Bola Tinubu has yet to reprimand or caution those accused of involvement in these illegal allocations,” the statement read. Call for Urgent Probes and Public Accountability In its formal address, NACAT demanded swift intervention by anti-graft agencies, stressing that those involved in the scandal must be arrested and investigated without delay. They cited past examples, such as Stella Oduah’s removal by former President Goodluck Jonathan over the controversial purchase of luxury BMW vehicles for under N300 million, emphasizing the need for consistent accountability regardless of who is involved. “Stella Oduah was removed from office for buying a BMW worth less than N300 million,” NACAT stated, calling on Tinubu to apply equal standards to those currently facing allegations. The anti-corruption advocacy group went further to issue a warning: if the government fails to act, they will organize sustained protests at both the National Assembly and the FCT Ministry. NACAT made it clear that Nigerian citizens are reaching a breaking point and would no longer tolerate corruption, abuse of office, or the continued exploitation of public assets. “We are overwhelmed as Nigerian citizens and cannot permit further degradation of Abuja and our national integrity. Enough is enough.”
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Former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has delivered a scathing assessment of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a party characterized by failure, pain, and anguish. In a strongly-worded resignation letter addressed to the APC Chairman in Ward 8, Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, Amaechi officially declared his exit from the ruling party. The resignation letter, dated July 1, 2025, emphasized that the APC no longer embodies the aspirations of the Nigerian people and has demonstrated a stark lack of empathy towards the suffering masses. According to reports by Daily Post Nigeria, Amaechi earlier announced publicly that he was no longer associated with the APC, asserting that the party has effectively ceased to exist in the real sense. Amaechi’s Full Explanation for Leaving the APC In his letter, Amaechi cited his decision as a product of deep reflection and widespread consultations. He affirmed that his resolve was anchored in the necessity to align with other patriotic Nigerians in salvaging the country from the “fangs of failure, pain, and anguish” that the APC has come to represent. “After extensive consultations across various quarters, I am now firmly convinced that it is the right time to sever ties with the APC. The party has strayed far from the noble principles upon which it was founded. Consequently, it can no longer inspire Nigerians with the hope of a better and greater future,” Amaechi stated. He further disclosed that his next political step involves collaborating with well-meaning citizens to embark on a new path aimed at the liberation and genuine transformation of Nigeria. Amaechi’s Role in 2027 Opposition Movement Amaechi’s resignation comes at a pivotal moment, especially as he is recognized as a key figure in the opposition coalition strategically formed to challenge and dislodge the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the upcoming 2027 general elections. This development marks a significant realignment within Nigeria’s political landscape, as more notable politicians prepare for what many expect to be a fiercely contested electoral battle.
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Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, has firmly dismissed any speculations of discord between him and the party’s presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi. Baba-Ahmed made this clarification during his attendance at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party, held on Monday in Abuja. According to a report by the Daily Post, the Labour Party has recently been entangled in deep-seated internal turmoil, leading to a clear division within its ranks. The party is currently polarized between two factions: one under the leadership of Julius Abure and the other steered by the interim Chairman, Nenadi Usman. The majority of party stakeholders, including prominent figures, argue that Julius Abure’s tenure as the national chairman has come to a lawful end. This view was reinforced by a court ruling, which explicitly directed Abure to desist from identifying or parading himself as the national chairman of the Labour Party. In line with this judicial directive, leading members of the Labour Party such as Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, the presidential candidate Peter Obi, Datti Baba-Ahmed himself, along with elected lawmakers representing the party, have consistently shown their allegiance to the Nenadi Usman-led faction. Despite his presence at the NEC meeting convened by the Abure faction, Baba-Ahmed clarified his mission, stating that his appearance was purely in the interest of peace-building within the party. Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the meeting, he emphasized that Peter Obi remains a bona fide member of the Labour Party, dismissing rumors suggesting otherwise. “I have attended the meeting and paid attention to the coalition dialogues. Yes, I still retain my membership in the Labour Party,” Baba-Ahmed asserted. He further stressed that Peter Obi, who is his principal, is equally committed to the Labour Party. While both leaders have participated in coalition discussions with other political entities, Baba-Ahmed pointed out that such coalitions do not equate to party membership shifts. “To the best of our knowledge, His Excellency Peter Obi, my leader, remains with the Labour Party. Like myself, he was involved in the coalition talks. However, participating in a coalition does not automatically signify joining another party like the ADC. There is no foundation for such claims,” he explained. Addressing speculations about a fallout between him and Peter Obi, Baba-Ahmed categorically stated that such a scenario is beyond the realm of possibility. “There is absolutely no crack between Peter Obi and me. In fact, imagining a rift between us is more difficult than cracking the entire APC structure,” Baba-Ahmed declared humorously but firmly. This declaration comes at a critical time when the Labour Party is battling internal divisions that threaten its cohesion and public image. Baba-Ahmed’s reassurances are aimed at calming tensions and projecting unity at the top leadership level of the party.
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Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has firmly dismissed recent speculations about his potential defection, clarifying that he remains committed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and has no plans to leave. Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his political allegiance during the official flag-off ceremony of the 3.5-kilometre dualisation of Ila township road in Ila-Orangun on Monday. He emphasized that his primary mission remains the development and service of the people of Osun State, stating that nothing will derail his dedication to this cause. Expressing his delight over the commencement of the Ila township road dualisation project, the governor acknowledged the numerous uncertainties facing Nigeria but insisted that governance must continue regardless of challenges. Governor Adeleke further assured the public that he had made a solemn vow to both God and the citizens of Osun State to serve them diligently and that no distraction would deter him from fulfilling this commitment. Road Projects and Infrastructure Development in Osun State The governor proudly highlighted his administration’s strides in infrastructural development, stating that his government has reconstructed, rehabilitated, and renovated over 175 kilometres of roads across the state. Several other strategic projects, including dual carriageways and flyovers, are also underway at various completion stages. Adeleke underscored the strategic importance of completing the Osogbo–Ikirun–Inisha–Okuku–Ijabe–Ila Odo road, a 39-kilometre stretch linking Osun State with neighbouring Kwara State. He reiterated his government’s resolve to see the project through to completion. “I was elected on the PDP platform, and I remain steadfast within the party. There is no intention or reason for me to defect,” Governor Adeleke asserted. He added that the newly flagged-off second phase of the project mirrors the extent of work achieved in the past 12 years. However, his administration is determined to complete this phase within 12 months by God’s grace. Governor Adeleke described the gathering at the event as a divinely orchestrated moment in history, affirming that everyone is destined by God for their respective roles and accomplishments in life.
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As the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gears up for its crucial session on Thursday, June 24, 2025, the North-Central APC Forum has strongly appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure the party’s National Chairman seat returns to the North-Central region. The call was made through a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja by the Forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, ahead of the impending NEC meeting. The NEC gathering is poised to address significant matters within the APC, including the selection of a substantive National Chairman following the resignation of Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje in June 2025. Why North-Central APC Insists on Reclaiming the Chairmanship Zazzaga, who was part of the APC’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Council, emphasized that restoring the chairmanship to the North-Central aligns with the party’s existing zoning arrangement and the region’s historical contributions to APC’s growth. He stressed that appointing a National Chairman from the North-Central is the only equitable course the NEC can pursue to sustain fairness within the party’s leadership dynamics. Recall that Abdullahi Adamu, former Nasarawa State governor, held the APC National Chairman role when it was zoned to the North-Central during the March 2022 convention. However, Adamu stepped down in July 2023, prompting the appointment of former Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, in August 2023. Ganduje’s tenure was short-lived, as he resigned on June 27, 2025, paving the way for Ali Bukar Dalori from Borno State (North-East) to assume the position in acting capacity. Strategic Importance of the North-Central to APC The North-Central APC Forum reiterated that their region has consistently been pivotal in the APC’s electoral strength and political dominance. They stated that any attempt to bypass the region in selecting the next National Chairman would be viewed as a betrayal of trust and efforts. According to the Forum: “Over the years, the North-Central has played a strategic role in building and consolidating the APC. Disregarding the region in this critical decision will be deeply disappointing to stakeholders.” They further highlighted that the North-Central region delivered significant results in the 2023 presidential election, securing the third-highest votes for President Tinubu after the South-West and North-West. Tinubu polled 1,760,993 votes (41.3%) in the region, while Peter Obi of Labour Party garnered 1,415,557 votes (33.2%), and Atiku Abubakar of PDP received 1,025,178 votes (24.1%). The Forum also pointed out that the APC controls five of the six states in the North-Central — Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, and Niger — showcasing the party’s entrenched influence and grassroots acceptance in the region. Forum’s Rejection of Dalori’s Acting Tenure Extension The Forum opposed the proposition from the All Progressives Stakeholders Forum, led by Dr. Maryam Danjaki, which advocated for the extension of Dalori’s acting tenure pending the next national convention. While the Stakeholders Forum warned that altering the party’s leadership structure could cause internal discord, the North-Central APC Forum countered that retaining Dalori would unjustly favor the North-East at the expense of the North-Central. “Leaving Dalori in acting capacity is akin to robbing Peter to pay Paul. The North-East cannot assume the role of National Chairman when the North-Central has made far greater contributions to APC’s success,” the Forum declared. They buttressed their argument with electoral data from the 2023 presidential poll in the North-East where the opposition PDP led with 1,741,846 votes (55.9%), compared to Tinubu’s 933,176 votes (29.9%), despite Vice President Kashim Shettima hailing from the region. Call for Leadership Renewal in APC Dispelling fears of internal crisis, the Forum argued that restoring the National Chairmanship to the North-Central would instead rejuvenate the party and demonstrate APC’s commitment to equity and justice. “There are numerous competent leaders within the North-Central with the capacity to lead APC to greater achievements. We urge President Tinubu to consider and appoint a credible candidate from the region,” the statement concluded.
