Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated confidence that Nigeria is “now working,” as he formally submitted the presidential nomination and expression of interest forms on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The submission, which took place on the final day of the designated deadline for aspirants, officially places President Tinubu in the APC presidential primary race for a second term bid. APC Hosts High-Level Submission Event in Abuja The formal presentation ceremony was held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre (BATIC) in Abuja, a venue specially reserved for the president’s submission. Other aspirants submitted their forms at a different designated hotel, highlighting the symbolic importance attached to Tinubu’s participation. The event was marked by strong political messaging from party leaders, who insisted that Nigeria has made significant progress under the current administration and should continue on the same leadership path. Just a day before the submission, the APC National Working Committee (NWC), during its 188th meeting, approved a waiver for President Tinubu, exempting him from the usual screening process. According to the committee, the decision was based on his already established political clearance and widespread endorsement within the party structure. The NWC explained that Tinubu had previously been screened and cleared ahead of the 2022 presidential primaries and had since received overwhelming support from key APC stakeholders, including the Progressive Governors Forum and National Assembly leadership. “Nigeria Has Crossed the River” — Shettima Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima said the administration has successfully navigated Nigeria through difficult economic conditions and is now on a path of recovery and stability. He praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as a leader who remained focused despite economic pressure and political criticism. According to him, the government inherited a challenging economic situation, including weakened foreign reserves, but chose to implement difficult reforms aimed at long-term stability. For broader context on Nigeria’s economic structure and reforms, you can explore this overview from the World Bank: Shettima emphasized that the administration’s reforms are already yielding results, adding that Nigeria has moved “out of the dark tunnel” and is now experiencing gradual economic recovery and renewed investor confidence. He also called for national unity, urging Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious lines to support the continuity of Tinubu’s leadership beyond 2027. APC Leadership Declares Era of Continuity APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, described the event as a reaffirmation of continuity in governance, highlighting what he called major achievements in infrastructure development, economic reforms, and institutional renewal. He noted that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), the second-highest decision-making body of the APC, had previously endorsed President Tinubu for a second term, making the current submission a formal continuation of that resolution. According to him, the waiver granted by the NWC was necessary to maintain consistency with earlier party decisions and avoid unnecessary repetition of processes already concluded. Infrastructure and Economic Projects Highlighted Yilwatda further outlined several flagship infrastructure projects under the Tinubu administration. These include: He explained that the railway corridor, particularly the connection toward Maradi in Niger Republic, is expected to strengthen regional trade and improve Nigeria’s position as a commercial hub for landlocked West African countries. The Badagry–Sokoto highway project, according to him, is also designed to boost agricultural productivity by linking irrigation zones and supporting the development of over 300 dams across the northern and southwestern regions. APC Governors Push for Consensus Candidacy In a parallel development, all 31 APC governors have expressed support for a consensus arrangement backing President Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, made the announcement in Abuja during the submission of the nomination forms. He stated that the governors are united in their decision to support Tinubu’s re-election bid and are prepared to actively campaign based on the administration’s performance and policy direction. Uzodimma emphasized that the endorsement is not a new political stance but a continuation of an earlier resolution adopted during the APC Political Summit, where party leaders collectively agreed to back the president for a second term.
A prominent figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, has called on the party’s newly constituted leadership to take decisive steps toward addressing the growing economic and social difficulties faced by Nigerians. His appeal comes amid increasing concerns over the policies and governance style of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which many citizens believe have contributed to widespread hardship. Oguntoyinbo made this known in a statement released in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. He specifically urged members of the PDP’s National Caretaker Committee, under the leadership of Tanimu Turaki, to focus on restoring hope and delivering solutions that will ease the burden on Nigerians. Recent developments within the PDP indicate a renewed effort to reposition the party ahead of future elections. The party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) recently endorsed the formation of a 13-member Caretaker Committee. This decision followed deliberations at the party’s 103rd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which took place in Abuja. The move is widely seen as a strategic attempt to strengthen internal structures and improve cohesion within the party. Reacting to this development, Oguntoyinbo emphasized the importance of unity within the PDP, especially following the recent judgment by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which has helped stabilize the party’s internal dynamics. He encouraged the committee members, including the National Secretary, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, to build on this unity and work collectively toward achieving electoral success. According to him, the responsibility before the committee is enormous and requires dedication, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. He expressed optimism that with proper guidance and teamwork, the party could regain public trust and position itself as a credible alternative capable of addressing the nation’s pressing challenges. Oguntoyinbo further stressed that the PDP remains a national platform with the capacity to lead Nigeria toward recovery and stability. He noted that millions of citizens are looking up to the party for relief from the economic strain and governance issues currently affecting the country. As such, he urged the leadership not to fall short of expectations but to deliver results that reflect the aspirations of the people. He concluded by reiterating the need for the party to remain focused, united, and committed to its goals, particularly as the next general elections approach. By doing so, he believes the PDP can secure victory and play a pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria’s future.
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Political realignments have intensified across Nigeria in recent weeks as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum. Governors, legislators, and influential party figures have continued to change political platforms, a development analysts describe as a calculated repositioning that is gradually reshaping the nation’s political structure. On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, the House of Representatives approved an amendment to certain sections of the Electoral Act aimed at criminalizing dual political party membership. The decision is widely interpreted as an effort to reduce opportunistic defections and enforce discipline among politicians ahead of the forthcoming elections. According to the revised provision, anyone found holding membership in more than one political party could face a fine of N10 million, a prison term of up to two years, or both penalties. The amendment also declares any form of dual party membership invalid and without legal effect. Legal analysts believe the amendment reflects the determination of lawmakers to strengthen internal party stability and safeguard the mandate given by voters during elections. Legal framework and limits of existing laws Nigeria’s Constitution already contains provisions that address political defections. Section 68(1)(g) states that any legislator who abandons the political party that sponsored their election may lose the seat, except in situations where there is a confirmed division within the party. Although the Electoral Act supports this constitutional provision, enforcement has often been inconsistent, allowing politicians to switch parties without serious consequences. Barrister Abdulrazak Boye Folorunsho, a legal practitioner based in Minna, told DAILY POST that repeated defections weaken democratic institutions. He explained that moving from one party to another reduces the strength of opposition parties and damages the democratic system, adding that failure to enforce existing laws can suppress the will of the electorate. Folorunsho further observed that legislators sometimes face sanctions, while governors often escape penalties, creating an uneven level of accountability. Increase in defections across different states Political defections usually increase between twelve and eighteen months before general elections, as politicians attempt to secure advantage ahead of party primaries. Niger State In Niger State, Adamu Tanko, who represents Suleja/Gurara/Tafa Federal Constituency, left the PDP for the APC in March 2025. Around the same period, former lawmaker Abdullahi Ricco also changed party affiliation. Several other politicians in the state switched parties at different times, showing a wider pattern of political adjustment ahead of the 2027 elections. Some residents expressed dissatisfaction over the situation. A Suleja resident, Aisha Musa, stated that she voted based on party promises, and the decision of elected officials to move to another party without consulting voters feels like a betrayal. Analysts said the timing of these defections suggests that many politicians are aligning with federal authority to secure political survival rather than acting on ideology or public demand. Adamawa State Adamawa experienced one of the most significant political shifts. In February 2026, Speaker Wesley Bathiya and about fifteen lawmakers resigned from the PDP and joined the APC, citing internal disputes within their former party. Shortly afterward, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri also defected to the APC along with members of the state executive council and several local government chairmen. This coordinated move significantly altered the political balance in the state ahead of 2027. Opposition figures argued that the change was motivated by strategy rather than public interest and warned that it could weaken the influence of opposition parties. Federal Capital Territory Senator Ireti Kingibe moved from the Labour Party to the ADC in late 2025. Political observers described the move as a strategic decision aimed at aligning with a party believed to have stronger national influence. Plateau, Rivers, Enugu, Delta and Akwa Ibom States Between April and December 2025, several governors changed party affiliation, including Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), all of whom moved to the APC. Opposition leaders criticized the development, saying the decisions appeared politically motivated and did not reflect the wishes of voters. Analysts said many governors prefer to align with the federal government before elections to gain political advantage and access to resources. Civil society groups also warned that frequent defections weaken democratic accountability and reduce the strength of opposition parties at the state level. Kano State In January 2026, Governor Abba Yusuf left the NNPP for the APC along with several lawmakers and local government officials. Observers described the move as another example of political alignment ahead of elections. Defections also recorded in the National Assembly The National Assembly has also seen several defections. In March 2026, Senators Amos Yohanna, Aminu Iya Abbas, and Ikra Aliyu Bilbis left the PDP for the APC, with their letters officially read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Earlier, Senators Shuaibu Lau and Haruna Manu from Taraba State also joined the APC, increasing the party’s numerical strength in the Senate. Analysts believe these changes are part of efforts to influence legislative control before the 2027 elections. Hidden negotiations behind party switching Many defections are the result of negotiations that are not visible to the public. Political insiders in Niger, Adamawa, and other states told DAILY POST that politicians often consider which party can provide better access to federal support, protection from internal disputes, and stronger chances of re-election. Some defections are timed to affect party primaries or local government elections, indicating that survival strategy often plays a bigger role than ideology. Sources also said discussions sometimes involve federal officials and party leaders, showing that many defections are carefully coordinated. Experts speak on survival politics Dr Dominic Alancha, political analyst and Convener of Concerned APC Stakeholders, North Central, Benue State, said that economic reforms and increased allocations to states under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu encouraged some governors to align with the ruling party, noting that survival is often a major factor. Dr Abdullah Mohammed Jabi, Chairman of the Campaign for Democracy, North Central zone, stated that ideology rarely drives defections, adding that when opposition parties fail to organize properly, members feel forced to leave, which voters see as a
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Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has directed every political appointee serving in his administration who plans to contest for any elective position in the 2027 general elections to step down from office on or before March 30, 2026. The announcement was made as part of efforts to maintain stability, continuity, and uninterrupted governance across the state. The instruction was disclosed in an official statement released on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula. According to the statement, the governor explained that the decision was taken to ensure that the current pace of development in Benue State is not slowed down by political activities or personal ambitions ahead of the upcoming elections. The statement further clarified that the governor believes early resignation by any appointee with political interest will allow for a smooth administrative transition. This, he noted, will help prevent unnecessary distractions that could interfere with the execution of government policies, programmes, and ongoing developmental projects across different parts of the state. Governor Alia emphasized that his administration remains fully committed to completing all ongoing projects and delivering on promises made to the people. He stressed that governance must remain the priority and that political ambitions should never be allowed to affect the progress already recorded under his leadership. He also called on citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders throughout the state to continue supporting his administration’s vision, which focuses on growth, transformation, and long-term development for Benue State. “I invite all people of good conscience to join hands with me so that together we can build a Benue State that attracts everyone and creates opportunities for all,” the governor stated while addressing supporters. While speaking on the achievements recorded so far, the governor pointed to several areas where progress has been made, including road construction, infrastructure upgrades, and improved welfare packages for civil servants working in the state. He explained that visible improvements across the state are clear signs that the government is fulfilling its mandate to the people. “When you see heavy construction equipment working on roads that were once in very bad condition, that is development. When you see civil servants going to work with satisfaction and returning home happily, that is also development,” he said. Governor Alia noted that his administration has already made significant progress but is determined to do more before the end of his tenure. According to him, the promise he made to the people of Benue State remains a binding commitment that guides every decision taken by his government. “I have started the work, I am halfway through, and I am even more determined to continue because that was the agreement I made with the people of Benue State. I cannot apologize to anyone for focusing on development because my responsibility is to improve the state,” he stated. He added that his loyalty is to the people who entrusted him with leadership, and his main concern remains how to improve their living conditions and change the narrative of the state for the better. “My covenant is with the people of Benue State. My focus is on how to make their lives better and how to rewrite the story of this state in a positive way. Nothing will distract me, and nobody will push me to abandon this mission,” the governor declared. Governor Alia concluded by reaffirming that his administration will remain focused on policies, programmes, and actions that directly impact the lives of citizens, adding that the government will continue to work towards sustainable development, economic growth, and improved welfare for all residents of Benue State.
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The Ondo State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Victor Olabimtan, has revealed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the organisation to enlist 25 individuals from each of the 3,933 polling units in the state as part of preparations for the 2027 presidential election. According to him, the planned recruitment will produce a total of 98,325 grassroots campaigners who will operate directly within polling units across Ondo State. Each of the recruited members will be tasked with persuading a minimum of five voters to support the President during the forthcoming election, strengthening mobilisation at the community level. Olabimtan made this disclosure during the official inauguration of the Ondo State chapter of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, which took place in Akure, the state capital, on Tuesday. He explained that the initiative has been established in all 36 states of the federation to improve communication between the Federal Government and citizens, especially regarding the policies, programmes, and projects introduced under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Speaking at the event, he stated that the directive from the President emphasises the importance of political engagement at the polling unit level rather than relying solely on ward, local government, or state structures. He noted that each polling unit is expected to produce 25 canvassers, and these individuals will receive financial support beginning three months before the election and continuing until two months after the exercise. Payments, he added, will be made directly to the participants. Olabimtan further explained that the strategy is designed to ensure effective voter mobilisation. With every canvasser expected to influence at least five voters, the cumulative effect across the state and the country is projected to significantly improve electoral outcomes for the ruling party. He added that both the President and the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, will be responsible for funding the remuneration for the campaigners. The coordinator, who also serves as Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, said the Renewed Hope Ambassadors programme was created to provide accurate information to citizens about Federal Government policies while also gathering feedback from grassroots communities. According to him, the nationwide initiative aims to educate Nigerians about reforms and opportunities introduced by the current administration. The programme is also intended to ensure that members of the public understand the benefits of government interventions and how to access available opportunities. He urged members of the group to remain active in mobilisation efforts and party outreach activities throughout the state. Olabimtan said those selected were chosen based on their experience, credibility, and past contributions, adding that they are expected to strengthen collaboration with structures of the All Progressives Congress at the state, local government, ward, and polling unit levels. He explained that the network would help maintain consistent communication, promote unity within the party, and support elected officials in delivering accurate information about government programmes to their communities. The former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly also clarified that the establishment of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will not interfere with the activities of other support groups working for President Tinubu in the state. He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his contribution to the selection of members and expressed confidence that the organisation would carry out its responsibilities effectively in order to achieve its objectives ahead of the 2027 general election.
