Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has firmly expressed his unwavering commitment to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating clearly that he would comply with any directive from the President, especially concerning the 2027 presidential race. His statement comes amid increasing speculation over potential choices for Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 presidential election. Jibrin’s name has surfaced among political circles as a likely vice-presidential candidate, prompting his public reaction during a press briefing on the upcoming zonal public hearings for the Senate Committee on Constitution Review. “I don’t want to speak on that issue right now, but one thing is very obvious. Since this administration began, Mr. President has been working diligently to steer the country in a new direction that fosters prosperity,” Barau said. He emphasized that discussions around running mates at this stage are premature and urged political groups to redirect their efforts toward supporting the Tinubu-led government. “That’s why I told the groups who brought up this idea that I don’t know them personally, but I appreciate their support. I also told them that it’s too early to focus on such political matters. We should instead concentrate on governance. When it’s time for politics, we will handle that. But now is the time to build the nation,” he added. Barau further described President Tinubu as his political mentor, emphasizing that his loyalty was absolute and unwavering. “He’s my political father. If I start listing the things he has done for me and my constituents, you would be amazed. So, whenever he instructs me to take action in the future, I will obey. I am 100% loyal to him,” he declared. In addition to his remarks on loyalty and political speculation, the Deputy Senate President also provided key updates on the forthcoming zonal public hearings organized by the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, which he chairs. According to him, the committee is currently handling 59 bills and 31 constitutional proposals, with the expectation that more feedback will be collected from citizens through public memoranda. He confirmed that these hearings will be held across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring national participation in the constitutional reform process. The zonal hearings are scheduled as follows: Barau reiterated the importance of broad public engagement and constitutional inclusiveness, highlighting the hearings as a vital platform for citizens to shape the country’s democratic future.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that while the president excels at political strategy, his performance in actual governance is deeply disappointing. During an interview with Vanguard, Adebayo questioned the potential legacy Tinubu would leave behind, considering his low scorecard in leadership execution. “When it comes to the political game, President Tinubu deserves an A1,” Adebayo remarked. “Unfortunately, that distinction in political manipulation is matched by an F9 when it comes to governing the country.” He emphasized that although Tinubu clearly understands the dynamics of the political elite and how to manipulate them to his advantage, he lacks insight into the real needs and expectations of everyday Nigerians. Adebayo explained: “The president is well-versed in the motivations of politicians. He knows exactly how to manipulate the political class — recruiting them, disengaging them when necessary, retiring them, and even bringing them back onboard. He knows what drives them. “But that’s not the same as leading a nation. If President Tinubu fails to protect lives in volatile regions like Benue, Plateau, and other crisis-prone areas, then it’s a clear sign that his administration is failing the people.” The former presidential hopeful went further to accuse Tinubu of believing that ordinary citizens are disengaged from the political process, and that controlling government institutions and political elites is sufficient to maintain dominance. Adebayo issued a warning that the real political resistance will not emerge from politicians but from the Nigerian electorate, whose growing awareness could soon reshape the democratic landscape. He cautioned those who attempt to convert career politicians into meaningful opposition voices, pointing out that their motivations are often self-serving rather than ideological. “Many of these so-called opposition voices only raise their concerns after being excluded from political appointments or government boards,” he said. “It’s only when they are dropped from ministerial positions or denied lucrative board seats that they suddenly become vocal — hoping to stir noise and get reabsorbed into the system.”
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The announcement by Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, regarding a proposed ₦63.5 billion renovation of the Agodi Government House has sparked mixed reactions across political, civic, and public sectors. Historically referred to as Oke Ebo, the Agodi Government House in Ibadan was established during Nigeria’s colonial era and has functioned as the official residence of successive governors — both military and civilian — overseeing the Western Region, old Western State, former Oyo State, and now the present-day Oyo State. Over the years, the edifice has seen periodic renovations by previous administrations. However, the scale and financial implications of the current renovation plan have stirred controversy among stakeholders and citizens alike. Governor Makinde recently disclosed his intentions at a public event in Ibadan, where he also delivered the State of the State address at the Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Agodi. According to the governor, Oyo State is rapidly becoming a hub for investment, owing to simplified governance models and effective policy execution. Responding to the uproar over the substantial budgeted cost, Governor Makinde justified the high expenditure by attributing it to Nigeria’s unstable exchange rate and the inclusion of a broader scope of infrastructural upgrades — including building reconstruction, road repairs, and chalet enhancements. “Yesterday, social media went agog with criticism over the ₦63 billion Government House renovation. But before jumping to conclusions, let’s consider some facts,” the governor asserted. He elaborated by recalling that the previous government had secured a $200 million World Bank loan for the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP). When his administration took office in May 2019, the loan stood at approximately ₦70 billion due to the then exchange rate of ₦350 to $1. Monthly repayments hovered around ₦700 million. Out of the $200 million, $100 million had already been disbursed, while $50 million was committed. Makinde’s government honored those commitments but managed the funds prudently, even returning $18 million to the World Bank — funds that were not utilized. The governor used this to underscore how exchange rate volatility had impacted the debt portfolio of the state. The same $200 million loan now equates to a whopping ₦320 billion due to the exchange rate shift to ₦1,540 per dollar. As a result, monthly loan servicing has ballooned to ₦3 billion. While highlighting the achievements of the IUFMP, including a working advanced warning system for floods, Makinde concluded that managing currency devaluation is beyond state-level governance. “We will continue to act in the best interest of our state,” he affirmed. Opposition and Civic Stakeholders Reject Makinde’s Renovation Budget Despite Governor Makinde’s explanations, several political and civic groups have voiced strong opposition, accusing the administration of misplaced priorities, fiscal irresponsibility, and possible corruption. APC Tells Makinde to Withdraw N63.5B Renovation Plan The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) strongly condemned the proposed renovation. Publicity Secretary Wasiu Olawale Sadare, in a statement provided to LMSINT MEDIA, urged the governor to immediately reverse the decision. Sadare labeled the move as a blatant display of extravagance and poor judgment, warning that it could further destabilize the state’s economy. He criticized the governor for prioritizing vanity projects, referencing an earlier controversial contract — the alleged purchase of exercise books for public school pupils at ₦2,100 per copy in 2019. He accused Makinde of recycling similar tactics, noting that the government house had already undergone major renovations under former Governor Abiola Ajimobi in 2017. Sadare dismissed Makinde’s budget defense as an “attempt to mask a clear case of misappropriation.” He also spotlighted issues surrounding the Alakia Airport upgrade, alleging contract splitting. According to him, Makinde released additional ₦10 billion and now ₦14.3 billion for a project initially budgeted at ₦14.3 billion — long after full payment was supposedly made. The APC chieftain further criticized the acquisition of aircraft for supposed security operations, asserting that the planes were unnecessary and would only benefit the political elite. “What Oyo needs is stronger synergy between stakeholders and proper funding of security forces, not luxurious aircrafts,” Sadare concluded. SPN Labels Renovation a “Misplaced Priority” The Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN), Oyo State Chapter, also denounced the renovation plan, calling it a gross misallocation of scarce public resources. Secretary Ayodeji Adigun said in a statement that Governor Makinde’s rationale was unconvincing and contradicted economic logic. The SPN accused the administration of exacerbating the state’s debt crisis. Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the party stated that the total debt prior to Makinde’s tenure was around ₦129 billion. This included ₦94 billion in domestic debt and ₦32 billion in external obligations. However, within just 15 months of taking office, the state’s debt reportedly surged by an additional ₦140 billion, totaling ₦266 billion — evidence, according to the SPN, of financial recklessness. “Blaming former governments while engaging in even more reckless spending is hypocritical,” the party said. The SPN stressed that resources should have been directed towards critical sectors like education, healthcare, and rural development instead of a non-essential luxury project. It also criticized the security aircraft procurement, arguing that public safety should be achieved through better-equipped police forces and modern surveillance systems — not private jets. Lawmakers, Citizens Must Demand Transparency – APC’s Alao Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao, a senior member of the APC, also condemned the spending proposal, urging the state legislature and citizens to demand full accountability from the governor. In a statement made available to LMSINT MEDIA, Alao asserted that the proposed expenditure was not included in the 2025 budget, and as such, represents unlawful spending. “Budget allocations for 2025 earmarked ₦152 billion for infrastructure, ₦145 billion for education, and ₦59 billion for healthcare — not for renovating the Government House,” he explained. Alao urged that any off-budget spending during this time of economic turmoil was both unjust and unethical, particularly when critical public services are underfunded. He called for immediate legislative scrutiny and a halt to vanity expenditures that fail to serve the needs of ordinary citizens.
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In a significant move impacting Nigeria’s fiscal planning, the Nigerian Senate has officially granted a second extension to the capital component of the 2024 national budget, moving the new deadline for its full implementation to December 31, 2025. This decision was reached during the Senate plenary session on Tuesday, after an amendment bill to the Appropriation Act was introduced and swiftly passed. The amendment aimed to adjust the timeline for utilizing the capital allocations approved in the 2024 fiscal budget. The announcement of the Senate’s resolution was made by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, following the adoption of a detailed report from the Senate Committee on Supply. Why the 2024 Capital Budget Was Extended Again The motion advocating for this extension was championed by Senator Solomon Adeola, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation and a representative of Ogun West under the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to Senator Adeola, this second extension is crucial to prevent the abandonment of critical national projects that are yet to be completed due to timing constraints. “We must not allow these important national projects to be abandoned due to time constraints. Extending the implementation period will ensure value for money and improved service delivery,”— Senator Solomon Adeola His remarks emphasized the need for continuity and accountability in national development, stressing that delays caused by rigid fiscal calendars could lead to wasted investments and stalled progress. This Marks the Second Official Extension for the 2024 Budget As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, this is the second official extension granted by the National Assembly for the 2024 capital expenditure budget. The first extension occurred in December 2024, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally requested that the budget deadline be moved from December 31, 2024, to June 30, 2025. With this new development, Nigeria is now operating two concurrent capital budgets—one for 2024 and another for 2025. This overlap raises serious questions about potential funding challenges and budget execution efficiency, especially given the country’s tight revenue environment and external debt commitments. Calls for Transparency and Accountability in Contractor Payments During the proceedings, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, raised a crucial concern regarding the non-payment of contractors since the start of 2024. He called on the Senate to initiate an investigation to address why many government contractors have not received their due payments despite ongoing budget provisions. The senator’s call further underscores the necessity for strong financial oversight and budget transparency, especially as Nigeria navigates dual capital expenditures. Unpaid contractors can lead to abandoned projects and undermine public trust in government financial management. Implications of Running Two Concurrent Capital Budgets Running parallel capital budgets for two fiscal years presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it allows for greater flexibility in completing ongoing projects, but on the other, it demands effective financial discipline and oversight to avoid duplication, waste, or mismanagement. Stakeholders in the public finance and economic sectors will be watching closely to see how the Federal Government handles disbursement, contractor accountability, and project timelines as 2025 unfolds. For more updates on Nigeria’s national budgeting, procurement, and fiscal management strategies, follow updates from the Federal Ministry of Finance and Budget Office of the Federation
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Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has expressed cautious openness to the growing opposition coalition reportedly planning to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections. In a revealing interview on Arise News TV on Tuesday night, Ndume admitted that while he has engaged with members of the coalition and even attended some of their strategic meetings, he remains hesitant to commit, emphasizing that he would not want to leap “from frying pan to fire.” “I am aware of the opposition coalition. I have gone to several of their meetings,” Ndume acknowledged during the program. When probed further about whether the coalition has formally approached him to join their cause, the senator confirmed the development but maintained a guarded stance. “Yes, but I told them no. I don’t want to jump from frying pan to fire. I have to be sure. I am a loyal person and I have my reasons for being loyal,” he said. Ndume’s remarks come at a time of heightened political speculation regarding the formation of a new political movement in Nigeria. The emerging coalition is reportedly considering the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) — a newly proposed political platform that has formally submitted an application for registration to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The ADA is rumored to be the vessel through which a formidable opposition front will be formed ahead of the 2027 elections. Among the influential figures leading the coalition are: The formation of such a coalition signifies deepening cracks within the existing political order and could lead to a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. However, Senator Ndume’s stance reflects the caution many politicians may adopt amid uncertain alliances and power dynamics. While Ndume has yet to align formally with the opposition, his participation in their meetings signals a potential ideological shift, or at the very least, an interest in alternative political futures. This development is part of a broader conversation about governance, loyalty, and the realignment of political structures ahead of 2027.
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Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has openly stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu harbored a personal dislike for him during their time in the All Progressives Congress (APC). El-Rufai made this known in an exclusive conversation during the Prime Time programme on Arise Television, aired on Monday. In the interview, the former governor clarified his political alignment within the party, emphasizing his close affiliation with former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom he referred to as his political mentor and ally. “Bola Tinubu never really liked me, and we never truly got along. In the party, I was known as Buhari’s boy,” El-Rufai disclosed. He further noted that his stronger relationship in the party was with Chief Bisi Akande, the former Osun State Governor and a founding member of the APC. El-Rufai described Akande affectionately as “Baba Akande”, underscoring the cordial bond they shared. “The person I connected well with was Baba Akande,” he added during the broadcast. Delving deeper into Nigeria’s electoral framework, El-Rufai also expressed skepticism regarding the current leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), specifically under the chairmanship of Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu. He voiced doubt over the commission’s willingness to register a new coalition political party. In comparing the leadership styles and political will of past and present electoral commission heads, El-Rufai praised Prof. Attahiru Jega, who served as INEC Chairman during the registration of the APC. He implied that Jega demonstrated greater impartiality and administrative openness during his tenure. El-Rufai previously served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory under President Olusegun Obasanjo, making him one of the few political figures with experience under multiple administrations. His recent commentary sheds light on ongoing tensions within the APC and paints a clearer picture of the internal political dynamics and personal relationships that continue to shape Nigeria’s democratic space.
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Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has outlined the critical motivations that led to the political merger which ousted President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. El-Rufai addressed a recurring perception that coalitions tend to emerge mainly when a Southern leader holds the presidency. He was responding to observations connecting the formation of coalitions to Southern leadership, especially as it occurred under Jonathan and appears to be resurfacing under President Tinubu. It should be recalled that during Jonathan’s presidency, various opposition political parties merged to form what is now the All Progressives Congress (APC). Today, under President Bola Tinubu—also a Southerner—the coalition discussion is once again gaining momentum. As one of the instrumental political figures behind the formation of the APC, El-Rufai reflected on how President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year administration—often labeled as one of the most ineffective—went by without any such coalition challenges arising. When questioned about why coalitions often emerge during Southern-led governments, El-Rufai responded that the matter had never occurred to him deeply. “That’s not something I focus on. The coalition against Jonathan happened due to three major reasons,” El-Rufai stated. He elaborated further, noting: “This was a strategic survival move,” El-Rufai added. “The three major parties decided to come together because they saw the PDP overpowering them one by one. It wasn’t really about North or South. It was simply about leadership performance.” Interestingly, El-Rufai has since exited the APC and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). There is growing speculation among Nigerians that El-Rufai’s defection might be tied to grievances over President Tinubu’s refusal to appoint him as a minister. Currently, El-Rufai stands as a prominent member of an opposition alliance that has pledged to unseat President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, aiming to send him back to his Lagos residence.
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…Six Northern APC Leaders Rumored as Alternatives, Including Ex-Zamfara Governor Yari Despite growing speculations and behind-the-scenes political movements aimed at replacing Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general elections, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firmly committed to maintaining Shettima as his running mate, according to authoritative sources confirmed by Vanguard. There have been whispers within political circles that six prominent figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC), hailing from the Northeast and Northwest, have emerged as potential replacements for Shettima. These individuals include former Zamfara State Governor Abdullaziz Yari, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and former House Speaker Yakubu Dogara. Among these names, insiders believe the president may be considering Ribadu to position him as a future successor in 2031 when the presidency might shift back to the North. Yari, on the other hand, is reportedly viewed favorably due to his unwavering loyalty and consistent public defense of Tinubu on national matters. Dogara is said to appeal to some party strategists advocating for a Christian vice presidential candidate in order to rebalance the ticket and dispel the notion of religious bias often associated with the Muslim-Muslim configuration. As for Governors Yahaya, Bago, and Sani, their current performance in office is viewed positively by APC insiders, who argue their achievements enhance the party’s reputation and support in the North. Nonetheless, officials within the Tinubu administration have categorically denied the idea that the President is considering a replacement for Shettima in 2027. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, dismissed the rumors, asserting that no conflict exists between the President and his Vice President since they assumed office. According to Onanuga, decisions about running mates are only made after a presidential candidate emerges from the party primaries. He further emphasized that the evolving nature of Nigerian politics does not necessitate anxiety over such speculations. Another source close to the Presidency, who requested anonymity, stated clearly that there’s no indication Tinubu plans to replace Shettima. The source emphasized that the Vice President has a strong political base in the North, which is crucial given the growing dissent in the region regarding Tinubu’s re-election plans. The source added that Shettima remains undefeated in electoral contests in Borno State, where he previously served as governor and senator before becoming Vice President. “President Tinubu is unlikely to risk replacing Shettima in 2027. The Vice President brings immense political value. He was among the first northern leaders to openly support Tinubu’s presidential ambition even before the APC primaries,” the source said. It was also recalled that Shettima publicly dismissed Yemi Osinbajo, Tinubu’s former rival, as “an ice cream seller” during the primaries, and went on to become the Director-General of Tinubu’s campaign, playing a central role in securing victory. Since assuming office, he has displayed unwavering loyalty and efficiency, key traits Tinubu reportedly values deeply. In terms of national unity, the source described Shettima as detribalized, noting his decisive role in de-escalating tensions when northern youths issued a quit notice to Igbos. He worked directly with southeastern leaders to resolve the matter peacefully. The source alleged that some of those pushing to replace Shettima lack political capital and the ability to win elections in their localities, and are only doing so for selfish political gain. Additionally, the cordial relationship between Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Hajia Nana Shettima may influence the President’s stance. The bond between the two women is reportedly strong, built through shared initiatives and public engagements. Hajia Nana Shettima has become deeply involved in the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI)—Senator Tinubu’s flagship empowerment program—which supports millions of Nigerians, especially women and girls. She often represents the First Lady at key functions, reinforcing the alliance. Sources from the Presidential Villa believe that Senator Tinubu’s ease in working with the Vice President’s wife might further solidify Shettima’s position on the 2027 ticket.
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Veteran actor, lawyer, and politician Kenneth Okonkwo has announced that the All Democratic Party (ADA)—a new political coalition—will open its 2027 presidential ticket to candidates from every region in Nigeria. Okonkwo, who served as spokesperson for Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flag bearer Peter Obi, made this statement during a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics. He emphasized that no aspirant from any geopolitical zone would be restricted from contesting under the new party’s platform. “I have said it clearly, nobody is going to stop anybody from contesting for the presidential ticket in the coalition, nobody,” he stressed. He noted that due to Nigeria’s complex political landscape, regional favoritism must be avoided. Okonkwo argued that trusting political promises has become difficult, even when candidates vow to serve only one term. “Politicians have shown that it is very difficult to trust them even when the person promises one term,” he stated.“If someone from the South has already taken a term and isn’t delivering—like Tinubu—the issue becomes critical. You can’t then bring in another Southerner who would likely serve eight years. That would trigger a response from the North, saying it’s unjust.” He proposed an open presidential race, where the most competent candidate, regardless of region, can emerge. This, he believes, would foster unity and national progress. “The best is to throw it open. When the best comes in, every other person will support him and the person will promise to do four years,” Okonkwo concluded. The ADA emerged as the political vehicle of a national coalition aimed at reshaping Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election. According to reports late last week, the coalition has officially settled on the ADA platform. Key political heavyweights involved include: The formation of ADA marks a major realignment ahead of the 2027 elections and signals an attempt by opposition figures to offer an alternative to the current administration.
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Former Labour Party Presidential Campaign Spokesman and Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, has publicly challenged Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), to openly explain how he was betrayed following his exit from the party. Okonkwo issued this challenge during his appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, firmly declaring that he maintained absolute loyalty to Obi throughout the 2023 campaign. According to him, he neither consulted with nor communicated with any opposing political figure while working under the Labour Party. “Throughout the campaign period, I didn’t consult with any rival political party or politician. I make this clear before everyone—I was 100% loyal,” Okonkwo affirmed. He added that once he stepped away from Obi’s camp, he made his decision known to the public, stating: “I told the entire world that from that moment onward, I would no longer speak on behalf of Peter Obi. Those accusing me of betrayal clearly don’t understand what betrayal truly means.” Background of Fallout It can be recalled that in July 2024, Kenneth Okonkwo publicly severed ties with the Labour Party. Despite being one of the most vocal supporters of Peter Obi during the 2023 elections, he parted ways with the party and Obi himself. The legal practitioner cited persistent internal crises within the Labour Party as his reason for leaving, particularly Obi’s unwillingness to address these disputes effectively. He also refuted claims that he received financial incentives or housing benefits from Peter Obi during the campaign period. “Let Obi have his opinion; everyone is entitled to one. But nobody fights for God,” Okonkwo added. Responding to Obi’s subtle reference to Judas Iscariot in past comments—where Obi reportedly remarked that Jesus had 12 disciples and one betrayed him—Okonkwo hit back sharply: “If Peter Obi is making that analogy, does it mean he sees himself as Jesus? How do you betray someone you no longer work for?”
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has suggested that Rivers and Bayelsa States may soon align politically with the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling potential shifts in the South-South geopolitical zone ahead of the 2027 general elections. Akpabio made this known during a large-scale reception in honor of Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who was officially welcomed into the APC. The event, held in Uyo, was attended by several notable figures within the party, including members of the Progressive Governors Forum. During his speech, Akpabio acknowledged and appreciated the recent political alignment in the region and projected future transitions. “Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive movement and helping steer the South-South in a progressive path,” he remarked. Akpabio further predicted: “Governor Umo Eno has made the leap, and up next will be Rivers State. Following closely behind, Bayelsa State is also expected to come on board. We already secured victory in Edo State through Governor Otu and have successfully presented Monday Okpebholo. Congratulations once more on your win.” Earlier in April, Governor Eno had hinted at exiting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal disputes. Citing unresolved party crises, he disclosed his intentions to defect to APC. The move was formalized on June 6, when he officially announced his defection during a well-attended event in Uyo. The gathering saw attendance from various APC leaders and key stakeholders.
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A major opposition movement under the banner of the National Opposition Coalition Group has officially submitted a request to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new political party named the All Democratic Alliance (ADA). The coalition is spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, signaling a bold political repositioning ahead of the next general election cycle. INEC confirmed the reception of the group’s application, which was dated June 19 and formally acknowledged by the commission on Friday. This submission affirms the coalition’s active intention to establish an alternative political platform, potentially disrupting the current national political structure. Among the influential figures backing the creation of ADA are former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Umar Ardo—a former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and the convener of the League of Northern Democrats. Together, these political heavyweights are leveraging increasing public discontent and evolving political alignments to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming elections. The coalition’s move follows closely on INEC’s recent warning that any political group seeking registration must strictly adhere to the country’s constitutional and electoral procedures, regardless of external pressures or popular demand. The formal letter to INEC was co-signed by Chief Akin A. Rickets, the Protem National Chairman of the group, and Abdullahi Elayo, the Protem National Secretary. In the letter, they stated: “We humbly approach the Independent National Electoral Commission to request the formal registration of our association under the name All Democratic Alliance (ADA), following the resolution passed by the Nigerian National Coalition Group, our sponsor.” According to the application, the party’s official slogan is “Justice for All”, while its acronym remains ADA. Included with the submission were all required documentation such as the party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and foundational meeting minutes. The proposed symbol of the ADA is a maize (corn), which the founders say symbolizes abundance, resilience, and sustenance—key values the party aims to promote nationally. The letter further highlighted: “Attached to this request are our party’s full manifesto—outlining our ideological direction—as well as the constitution, which frames our legal, structural, and organizational identity as a political body.”
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday, referred to himself as the luckiest politician in Nigeria. Wike highlighted how he is consistently surrounded by close allies from Abia, Enugu, Sokoto, and Cross River States during major functions held in Abuja. He made these remarks during the official commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N5 (also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way), stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III (RR3). The event featured the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who stood in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This road commissioning was among the many initiatives rolled out to commemorate President Tinubu’s two-year anniversary in office. Wike stated: “Mr President, allow me to say this; I don’t think any other politician in this country is as fortunate as I am. Each time we organize any event in Abuja, my friends—from your state, Abia, Enugu, Sokoto, Cross River—consistently show up in support.” He continued: “With your permission, Mr President, I want to express gratitude to the people of Rivers State and indeed all Nigerians. To those of you present here today, kindly take a bow before Mr President. These individuals deserve recognition and praise.”
