82-Year-Old Ouattara Wins Fourth Term With 89.77% in Ivory Coast Election.

Ivory Coast’s President Alassane Ouattara has secured a fourth term in office after winning 89.77 percent of the votes in Saturday’s election, the country’s electoral commission announced on Monday.

The poll, which excluded Ouattara’s two strongest rivals, saw nearly nine million Ivorians eligible to vote in the world’s top cocoa-producing nation. 

Despite fears of unrest, voting took place peacefully, although tensions had soared in the lead-up to the election following opposition complaints over disqualifications.

Provisional results showed Ouattara sweeping the polls across most regions, with voter turnout reaching almost 100 percent in his northern strongholds. He also made surprising gains in southern areas and parts of Abidjan, traditionally considered opposition territory, where many polling stations recorded low turnout.

Entrepreneur Jean-Louis Billon finished a distant second with 3.09 percent of the vote, according to the commission’s president, Ibrahime Kuibiert Coulibaly. Turnout stood at 50.10 percent — similar to the 2020 election, when Ouattara won 94 percent amid an opposition boycott.

The 82-year-old leader, who first took power in 2011, remains a dominant figure in Ivorian politics. His victory underscores his continued grip on power in a country that has largely resisted the coups and insurgencies destabilizing other parts of West Africa.

Rep. Abdussamad Dasuki Steps Aside Ahead of 2027 after 14-years in politics, Says Leadership Must Make Room for Youth.

A member of the House of Representatives representing Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency in Sokoto State, Abdussamad Dasuki, has announced that he will not seek re-election in the 2027 general elections.

Dasuki described his decision as a personal sacrifice to give younger Nigerians the opportunity to contribute fresh ideas to governance. “This is not a decision born out of fatigue or frustration, but a higher calling rooted in hope and belief in Nigeria’s future,” he said.

The lawmaker, who began his political career in 2011, has served in the Sokoto State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, and now in the National Assembly. He also chairs The Future Is Now Project, a youth inclusion initiative advocating that 70 percent of House of Representatives seats be occupied by Nigerians under 40 by 2027.

Dasuki said his decision to step aside aligns with the principles he has long promoted. “I am still a youth by many standards, but having crossed the 40-year threshold, it is time to match words with action. This is my sacrifice for the vision we proclaimed,” he stated.

Expressing gratitude to his constituents and political mentor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Dasuki thanked them for their trust and support over his 14-year political journey.

“To the youth of Nigeria, I say no more waiting, no more excuses, no more silence. Take your place, lead with courage, integrity, and vision,” he added.

He assured that even as he exits elective politics, he remains committed to mentorship, youth empowerment, and policy advocacy. “As I step aside, I hope to set a new precedent that true leadership also means knowing when to make space for others,” Dasuki said.

All Eyes on Akinwunmi Ambode.

Politics, in Lagos, rarely forgets, only circling back when the timing feels right. And now, after years of studied silence, Akinwunmi Ambode’s name is again spoken in the open with chants, banners, and renewed conviction that the former governor might find his way back to the seat he once lost.

At a recent gathering in Lagos, the Tinubu-Ambo Support Group, a coalition of political loyalists, pledged allegiance to two men: President Bola Tinubu and Ambode. Their mission was clear: mobilise voters ahead of the 2027 elections, stir the political base, and remind citizens that loyalty, when revived, can reshape the future.

Dr. Seyi Bamigbade, the group’s director-general, described it as a movement to “reawaken civic consciousness” and restore continuity between Tinubu’s national reform and Ambode’s Lagos vision. Their call echoed across markets and youth halls: get your PVCs, prepare for 2027, let Lagos move again.

Yet beneath the cheers lies the hum of unfinished history.

Ambode’s story is one of brilliance and breach. His four-year term (2015–2019) delivered roads, transport networks, and fiscal growth, but also alienated party powerbrokers. In 2018, when Tinubu withdrew his support, the empire shifted. Ambode lost the APC ticket to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ending his bid for re-election and ushering in years of quiet withdrawal.

Now, his name returns, attached to Tinubu’s own. The pairing, once improbable, now feels strategic. For some, it signals reconciliation; for others, a test of Lagos’s political memory. Can ambition and loyalty coexist, or does one always exact a price from the other?

Ambode himself has remained silent, as if watching from a measured distance. But Lagos remembers. And in the whispering corners of its politics, where godfathers and foot soldiers meet, the question grows louder: if the city offers him a second dance, will he take it?

Coup rumours: Agbakoba backs Tinubu on replacement of service chiefs.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Olisa Agbakoba, has backed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to replace the nation’s service chiefs, describing it as a wise and timely move, especially amid rumours of an alleged coup plot.

President Tinubu had on Friday announced major changes in the leadership of the armed forces as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security structure. The reshuffle included the appointment of a new Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officers.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Agbakoba said the president’s action showed firmness and decisiveness that were lacking in the previous administration.

“You have a president who is prepared to take tough decisions, and we know that he likes to take tough decisions,” Agbakoba said.

“I think he has done the right thing because his predecessor, the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, did not like to make such decisions and allowed his military team to stay far longer than they should have.”

Reports had linked the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary events on October 1 to an alleged coup attempt. But the Defence Headquarters dismissed the claims, saying the cancellation had no connection to any plot.

The former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) said the timing of the president’s decision was appropriate and showed leadership at a critical moment.

“So, if it is indeed true that there was a rumoured coup, I think he (Tinubu) acted sensibly by doing exactly what he has done,” he said.

UK Charity Commission Freezes Assets of MFM Ministries.

The United Kingdom’s Charity Commission has frozen the assets of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries International (MFM), a church founded by Dr. Daniel Olukoya, following findings of financial mismanagement and governance lapses within its UK operations.

In a detailed report released on Monday, POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the commission said the decision followed an official inquiry that uncovered “serious concerns” about how the church’s funds were being managed. The investigation revealed that MFM trustees failed to maintain proper oversight of over 100 bank accounts run independently by local branches across the country.

According to the Commission, the charity’s rapid expansion from a few branches to over 90 nationwide was not matched by the necessary governance systems to ensure financial accountability.

“Branches operated autonomously, opening and managing bank accounts without central authorisation or adequate monitoring,” the report said. “This created substantial risks to charitable funds and led to inaccurate and delayed financial reporting.”

The inquiry also found that some branches had engaged in major financial transactions, including the purchase and leasing of properties, without the knowledge or approval of the main trustees. These irregularities, the Commission said, resulted in “financial losses that could not be fully accounted for.”

As part of its enforcement action, the Commission ordered the immediate freezing of all MFM’s UK assets to prevent further mismanagement. “The Commission has acted decisively to protect the charity’s remaining assets while remedial steps are being implemented,” the statement added.

This is not the first time the Charity Commission has intervened in MFM’s affairs. In 2019, the regulator appointed an interim manager to oversee the church’s financial administration after repeated failures to file annual reports and maintain proper accounting records.

Police Deny Shooting Sowore, Others During Protest In Abuja.

The Nigeria Police Force has denied claims that its operatives fired live bullets at protesters in Abuja during the #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration led by activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore on Monday.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said it was only teargas that was fired.

He added that people who are not familiar with the sound can mistake the firing of teargas for live ammunition as both make the same popping, explosion-like sound.

Hundeyin, who spoke on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday night, added that the Police only fired tear gas after the protesters refused to leave the areas where the court had already prohibited their demonstrations.

“I can say it authoritatively that no live ammunition was fired today. Not a single live ammunition.

“It is easy for people who are not familiar with the sound to mistake the firing of teargas for live ammunition. It makes the same popping, explosion-like sound. I can say it on good authority that no live ammunition was shot.

“We made it clear that we were going to enforce this court order. We gave enough warning to these people to step back and not go beyond where they were, but they were adamant and they were approaching these areas,” he said.

The Force PRO added that the officers acted within the provisions of the law and established procedures to ensure public safety.

“You’ll Keep Contesting for President on Social Media” — Wike Mocks Peter Obi.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ridiculed former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, saying he would “continue to contest for President on social media, not in Nigeria.”

Wike made the remark on Thursday during the inauguration of new roads in Abuja’s Mabushi District, responding to Obi’s recent criticism of the poor state of public schools in the FCT.

Obi, during a visit to LEA Primary School in Kapwa on Wednesday, had described the school’s condition as “a national disgrace” and a reflection of Nigeria’s “empty commitment to education,” lamenting the lack of chairs, toilets, and other basic facilities.

But in a fiery reaction, Wike accused Obi of politicising everything and using emotional public appearances to attract online sympathy.

“I hear one of the social media presidential candidates visited a local school and claimed the government had abandoned public education. His name is Mr Peter Obi. It’s not everything you must play politics with,” Wike said.

He also questioned Obi’s record as Anambra governor, alleging that he failed to complete key projects during his eight-year tenure and even clashed with his successor.

“Peter Obi, you governed Anambra for eight years. If you had done everything right, no one would still be talking about developing the state today. Why did you even fall out with your successor?” he asked.

Wike went on to boast that he had achieved more in two years as FCT Minister than Obi did in eight years as governor.

“We’ve been in office for just two years, not even four yet. Compare our work in the FCT with your eight years in Anambra, can you truly say you love this country or your people? Certainly not,” he said.

He further dismissed Obi’s presidential ambitions, claiming that someone who could not manage a political party was unfit to lead a nation.

“You will continue to contest as President on social media, not as President of Nigeria. You couldn’t even manage your own party. How can you manage a country of over 200 million people? It’s not available for people like you,” Wike declared.

Kenyan Opposition Leader Raila Odinga Dies at 80 During a morning walk in India.

Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga has died in India at the age of 80, Indian police confirmed on Wednesday.

According to Krishnan M., Additional Superintendent of Police in Kerala State, Odinga collapsed during a morning walk with his sister, daughter, & personal doctor. He was accompanied by both Indian & Kenyan security officers when the incident occurred. Despite being rushed to a nearby private hospital, doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.

A spokesperson for the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital and Research Centre in Kerala, where Odinga had been receiving treatment, also confirmed the death. “Around 7:45 a.m., Mr. Raila was on his morning walk when he suddenly experienced breathing difficulties & collapsed,” the spokesman told AFP. “CPR was immediately administered, & after brief signs of recovery, he was rushed to a modern hospital. Unfortunately, despite several resuscitation efforts, he could not be saved.”

A member of Odinga’s political team, who requested anonymity pending an official announcement, also confirmed the tragic news.

Born on January 7, 1945, Odinga was one of Kenya’s most influential political figures. A member of the Luo ethnic group, he spent years in jail and exile under the autocratic rule of President Daniel arap Moi, championing democracy and political reform.

He entered parliament in 1992 and ran unsuccessfully for president five times in 1997, 2007, 2013, 2017, and 2022 each time claiming he was denied victory through electoral fraud.

Odinga’s death marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, closing the chapter on a lifelong struggle for democracy, reform, and justice.

Yobe SIEC Chairman Mamman Mohammed is dead.

Mamman Mohammed, the chairman of the Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) is dead.

Mohammed was said to have died after a brief illness at a hospital in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital city on Monday, October 13.

The Fika Emirate Council confirmed his passing on its official Facebook page.

According to the Emirate, Mohammad, the Shamakin Fika died at the Yobe State Teaching Hospital, Damaturu.

“Inna Lillahi wa inna ilaihi Raji unn.

“The death has occurred of Dr Mamman Mohammed, (Shamakin Fika), Chairman of the Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC).

“He died at Yobe State Teaching Hospital after an illness.

“May Almighty Allah grant him Aljannah, Amin”, the Emirate wrote on Facebook.

Politics Nigeria gathered that the YSIEC chairman will be buried on Tuesday, October 14, according to Islamic rites.

Insecurity: "Nigerians Now Safer Under Tinubu" — Bwala

The Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, has declared that Nigerians are now safer than they were before 2023, crediting the improvement in national security to the current administration’s policies and reforms.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Bwala said incidents such as mass prison breaks, frequent kidnappings, and widespread terrorist attacks had significantly reduced since President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

“Before 2023, there were prison breaks everywhere in Nigeria even here in Abuja. In broad daylight, people were being kidnapped before President Bola Tinubu came on board,” he said. “After he became president, we have not had prison breaks. People are going about their businesses all over the country.”

Bwala, who previously served as spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation before joining the Tinubu administration, argued that while isolated cases of insecurity still exist, they no longer threaten the country’s stability.

“There are still skirmishes here and there, but they are no longer the order of the day. The president’s leadership has restored relative calm,” he added.

Reacting to recent allegations by U.S. lawmakers that the Nigerian government was enabling a “Christian genocide,” Bwala dismissed the claims as false and politically motivated. He said the controversial report cited abroad was allegedly produced by a local civil society group with links to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

“No faith group is being targeted in Nigeria. The allegation of religious persecution is baseless and unfair to the country’s security agencies who have been risking their lives to protect all citizens,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to acknowledge the strides recorded under Tinubu’s leadership while continuing to support government efforts to consolidate peace and stability across the federation.

One million Bibles launched to mark Seyi Tinubu’s 40th birthday.

A Thanksgiving service and the launch of one million Holy Bibles in honour of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja on Sunday.

The event, organised by friends of Seyi Tinubu and coordinated by Belusochukwu Enwere, national president of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), brought together Christian leaders, political figures, and youth representatives from across the country.

According to the organisers, the project aims to promote moral rebirth and strengthen Christian values among Nigerian youths.

They said the Bibles would be distributed nationwide across churches and communities to encourage godly leadership and Christ-like virtues.

Enwere described Seyi Tinubu as “a shining example of humility, service, and national unity,” adding that his influence goes beyond politics and business to inspiring moral leadership among young people.

Enwere said: “The one million Bible project is a gift to the body of Christ and a seed for moral transformation.

“Through this effort, we hope to restore integrity, compassion, and love for humanity among young Nigerians. Seyi Tinubu’s life has exemplified these virtues, and we believe this gesture will inspire others to live with purpose.”

The Thanksgiving service, which took place simultaneously at the National Ecumenical Centre and 40 other churches nationwide, featured prayers, worship, and messages of hope for the country.

“Nigeria Now Safer Than Before 2023” — Bwala Defends Tinubu’s Security Achievements


The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has claimed that Nigerians are now safer under the Tinubu administration than they were before 2023.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Bwala stated that major security threats such as prison breaks and daylight kidnappings—which were rampant across the country—have drastically reduced since Tinubu assumed office.

“Before 2023, prison breaks were common everywhere, even in Abuja. Kidnappings in broad daylight were frequent. But since President Tinubu came on board, those incidents have largely stopped. Nigerians are superlatively safer today,” Bwala asserted.


He emphasized that while isolated security challenges still occur, the overall situation has improved nationwide. Bwala further argued that Nigeria’s crime rate is often exaggerated compared to other countries.

“Crimes committed in the United States in one day are more than what happens in Nigeria. People don’t put that into perspective,” he said.


Bwala also responded to recent claims by U.S. lawmakers led by Senator Ted Cruz, who accused the Nigerian government of enabling a “Christian genocide.” He dismissed the allegations as false and politically motivated, maintaining that insecurity in Nigeria is not religiously driven.

“That genocide claim is a well-coordinated agenda,” Bwala explained, alleging that the report cited by the U.S. senators originated from a local group with ties to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).


According to him, the controversy intensified after Vice President Kashim Shettima’s address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which boosted Nigeria’s international visibility and possibly drew political backlash.

Bwala reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to security reform and national stability, urging citizens to recognize the visible progress achieved so far.

“Insecurity is not tied to any faith or region. What we are witnessing is steady progress in restoring law and order across Nigeria,” he concluded.

Sen Orji Uzor Kalu Declares Himself Most Important Politician in South-East, Says Peter Obi Can’t Match His Record.

Former Abia State Governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, has declared that he remains the most important political figure from the South-East, dismissing Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as less influential.

Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Kalu asserted that his political record and achievements far outweigh Obi’s.

“He (Obi) is not my leader. I am the most important politician from that zone,” Kalu said confidently. “I have won two states under the PPA, contested for president in 2007, and secured 4.9 million votes. Under President Yar’Adua, we had ministers, ambassadors, and other key appointments through our party.”

On his political future, Kalu said age would not stop him from running for president if the opportunity arises, drawing parallels with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

“If I’m healthy and God grants me life, I can still contest. It’s not about age; it’s about competence , what’s in my brain and what I can deliver,” he stated.

When asked if he believes the Igbo nation should unite behind Obi in future elections, Kalu declined to endorse the Labour Party leader.

“Peter Obi Is Not My Leader” — Orji Kalu Declares, Says He Remains the Most Influential Politician in the Southeast

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, former Governor of Abia State, has stirred political tension with his bold declaration that Peter Obi is not his leader, asserting that his extensive political achievements make him the most prominent politician from the Southeast.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Kalu emphasized his long-standing influence in Nigerian politics, dismissing suggestions that Obi holds any political authority over him.

In his words:

“He is not my leader. I’m the most important politician from that zone. I have won two states before. I ran for President before — my 4.9 million votes are still there in 2007. I achieved a lot with PPA. We had ministers, we had ambassadors with President Yar’Adua.”

The senator highlighted his decades of political success — from his gubernatorial leadership to his presidential bid under the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) — noting that his legacy extends beyond regional politics.

Kalu’s remarks come amid the growing influence of Peter Obi, whose performance in the 2023 presidential election as the Labour Party’s candidate positioned him as a major political figure, especially in the Southeast where he enjoys massive grassroots support.

David Mark Pledges a “Bigger, Stronger, and Purpose-Driven” ADC Ahead of 2027 Elections


The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced its vision to build a political party that transcends individual personalities, surpasses any movement, and stands out in the history of Nigerian politics.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja on Tuesday, Senator David Mark, the party’s national chairman, said the journey ahead would be challenging and demand significant sacrifices.

“Our mission is not just to attain power in 2027 but to leave a legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit,” Mark said.


The high-profile meeting drew respected leaders from across Nigeria, including former Osun State Governor and ADC National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former SGF Babachir Lawal, Chief Oserheimen Osunbor, and actor Kenneth Okonkwo, among others.

In his remarks, Mark emphasized that ADC members have set aside narrow interests in favor of the common good, stating,

“We advance calmly, courageously, together as a formidable team.”


He added that the ADC would be a party of purpose and determination, committed to promoting democratic values, accountability, and responsibility in every government it forms.

Drawing from his experience as a former Senate President, Mark expressed concern over attempts—both subtle and overt—to undermine the legislature and judiciary. He promised that the ADC would defend the separation of powers, restore legislative and judicial independence, and ensure that public budgets serve the people, not private interests.

The party’s declaration signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s political landscape as it positions itself for the 2027 elections with a focus on principle-driven governance and lasting impact.

Atiku’s Aide Fires Back at Oshiomhole: “You’re Consumed by Fear and Hate”


Paul Ibe, media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has fired back at Senator Adams Oshiomhole over his recent comments describing Atiku as being “consumed by politics.”

Oshiomhole made the remark during an appearance on Channels Television over the weekend while reacting to Atiku’s criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s trip to Plateau State for the burial of the mother of APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.

Atiku had slammed Tinubu for showing “a lack of empathy” toward Nigerians facing killings across the country while attending a social event.

Responding, Oshiomhole said:

“I have sympathy for Atiku. He has allowed himself to be consumed by politics.”

But in a swift and fiery response on Tuesday, Paul Ibe accused Oshiomhole of hypocrisy and fear of Atiku’s political influence.

Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Ibe wrote:

“I have sympathy for Oshiomhole. He is tailoring sycophancy with a designer touch and has allowed himself to be consumed by the hate and fear of @atiku.”

The exchange has since ignited reactions online, with many Nigerians weighing in on the ongoing political rivalry between the camps of Atiku Abubakar and Bola Tinubu.

Legal battle begins over minister’s certificate.

Justice Hauwa Yilwa adjourned hearing on the matter, following the inability of the legal representative for UNN and its officers, to file their replies.

On his part, counsel to UNN and its officials, Asogwa, said though he would not give credibility to the Applicant’s claim, he assured the court that he would advise his clients to maintain the status quo, pending the determination of the suit.

He further told the court that his clients were within Justice Hauwa Yilwa adjourned hearing on the matter, following the inability of the legal representative for UNN and its officers, to file their replies. On his part, counsel to UNN and its officials, Asogwa, said though he would not give credibility to the Applicant’s claim, he assured the court that he would advise his clients to maintain the status quo, pending the determination of the suit.

He further told the court that his clients were within release his academic transcript without further delay and stop playing further politics with the vital document. He insisted that having bagged a BSc. degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry with second class honours (lower division) in 1985, the university had no right to continue to hold back his academic laurel.

His plea came on a day the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja fixed November 10 to hear the suit the minister filed against the university, and the presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, in 2023 election, Peter Obi, asked the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and other relevant agencies to verify certificates submitted by candidates running for public office to prevent people with questionable backgrounds from being elected.

The minister, who is accused of forging the certificate he submitted to the government upon his appointment in 2023, defended himself through his spokesman, Dr. Robert Ngwu, at a media briefing in Abuja yesterday.

Nnaji accused the university authorities of trying to dent his image by issuing two conflicting reports regarding his certificate, all in a bid to satisfy a governor who wanted him out of office so as to enhance his political position. At the briefing, he tendered the graduation brochure with his name as Nnaji Uchenna G and picture, along with other graduads in the 1985 set and another letter issued to him by the Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Celine Ngozi Nnebedum, showing he was admitted in 1981 and graduated in 1985.

Asked how the name Nnaji Uchenna G written in his graduation brochure and Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, which the Registrar wrote as the person who graduated in 1985 could be taken to mean the same thing, he said it did not matter as many Igbo names meant the same thing.

Abduction of 276 Chibok Girls Remain Indelible Scar on My Presidency — Jonathan.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has admitted that the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls will forever remain a scar on his presidency.

He made the remark on Friday at the presentation of SCARS: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum, a memoir by former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor. Commending Irabor, Jonathan described him as “a soldier who stood for truth and never played politics with security.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Jonathan said, “One of the major scars on my government is the Chibok Girls. As Bishop Kukah said, no plastic or cosmetic surgeon can remove it. It is a scar I will die with.”

The kidnapping of 276 girls from Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, triggered global outrage and birthed the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Although some of the girls escaped or were freed, more than 80 remain unaccounted for.

Survivors still struggle with stigma, trauma, and interrupted education, with some returning home with children born in captivity.

Jonathan noted that Boko Haram’s activities, which began in 2009, worsened during his presidency. “I battled Boko Haram for five years as President. I thought Buhari would wipe them out quickly, but they remain. Sometimes they even had more munitions than our soldiers — that does not reflect the actions of hungry villagers,” he said.

While his administration was heavily criticised for its response to the tragedy, Jonathan defended his silence at the time, saying it was aimed at protecting sensitive intelligence. He insisted that the insurgency was more complex than many assumed and called for a renewed approach, stressing that the “carrot and stick” method might be necessary.

Over a decade later, successive governments have rescued or negotiated the release of about 189 girls, but dozens are still in captivity. The Federal Government maintains that freeing the remaining Chibok girls and Leah Sharibu remains a national priority.

ADC’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Ugochimereze Asuzu, Passes on After Slumping.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of its Deputy Publicity Secretary in Imo State, Hon. Ugochimereze Chinedu Asuzu.

Asuzu, who also convened Ikoro Ndigbo and was regarded as a strong voice in Igbo sociocultural discourse, reportedly slumped and died in the early hours of Wednesday.

In a statement signed by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chief MacDonald Amadi, the ADC described his passing as a devastating loss, extolling him as a “man of uncommon intellect, conviction, and service.”

A native of Umuma Isiaku in Ideato South Local Government Area, Asuzu combined academic brilliance with grassroots activism. He earned degrees in Theology and Political Science and was pursuing a doctorate at the time of his death.

Beyond partisan politics, he was a theologian, entrepreneur, cultural advocate, and founder of the Igbo Intelligentsia Renaissance, a platform dedicated to cultural renewal and intellectual engagement. 

He also established and led I Stand With ADC, a coalition support group that mobilised citizens for democratic participation.

Before joining the ADC, Asuzu was a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He was widely respected as a prolific writer, public affairs analyst, and visiting lecturer.

The party’s statement further described him as a loving husband, devoted father, and mentor who inspired many in both religious and secular spheres.

“The passing of Chief Asuzu is an irreplaceable loss to his family, the ADC family, and the larger Nigerian society,” the statement read.

Details of his burial arrangements will be announced later.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he is ready to drop his 2027 presidential ambition if a younger, vibrant and widely accepted candidate emerges under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Atiku, a key member of the opposition coalition, made this known in an interview with BBC Hausa Service on Wednesday. He stressed that his interest in the race is not driven by personal ambition but by the need to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative.

“My being in the 2027 race does not prevent anyone from contesting. If a vibrant and widely accepted younger candidate emerges, I am willing to step aside,” Atiku said.

He dismissed suggestions that he is desperate for the presidency, saying his concern is to “rescue Nigeria from those who have held it hostage.”

Atiku also urged young Nigerians to take politics seriously, assuring that he would give his full backing if a younger candidate is chosen to represent the coalition.