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?

The All Progressives Congress League of Professionals (ALP) has dismissed insinuations that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is on the verge of collapse ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such claims as false, unfounded, and mischievous. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Marlin Daniel, a pioneer Secretary of the Bayelsa State…
The post APC Growing Stronger Ahead Of 2027 Elections – ALP appeared first on New Telegraph.

INEC Yet to Show Readiness for Credible Polls — Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Using State Power to Intimidate Opposition


Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over what he described as the declining independence of Nigeria’s electoral system and the misuse of state power ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, speaking through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in an interview with Punch Newspaper, accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of using government institutions, including anti-corruption agencies, to intimidate opposition leaders and force mass defections into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The Constitution provides for freedom of association. As a democrat, Atiku Abubakar will not dictate to others whom they associate with. But it is clear that the Tinubu-led APC has been using state power to coerce opposition figures,” he said.


According to Atiku, the wave of defections across political parties does not reflect genuine political conviction but rather self-preservation by politicians seeking protection and personal gain.

“All of these defectors do not have the people’s interest at heart. What they are doing is to protect their own interests,” he added.


The former Vice President emphasized that despite the ongoing political realignments, ordinary Nigerians remain the ultimate deciders of the 2027 election outcome.

“It is Nigerians — the long-suffering, impoverished citizens who can hardly feed, educate their children, or access basic healthcare — who will determine the fate of 2027. The battle line has been drawn between the forces of good and evil,” Atiku declared.


He expressed disappointment that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to demonstrate genuine commitment to reforming the electoral process, warning that without concrete improvements, the 2027 elections could mirror past irregularities.

Atiku, however, expressed optimism that the will of the people would prevail over political manipulation and state-backed coercion.

NNPP Denies Plans to Endorse Tinubu for 2027 — “We’ve Made No Such Decision,” Says Party Chairman Agbo Major



The National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Agbo Major, has firmly denied speculations that the party plans to adopt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.

In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST, Agbo Major clarified that the NNPP has not taken any formal decision to align with President Tinubu or the All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing that such claims are unfounded.

“There are two separate issues here — individuals within the party who may be eyeing the APC, and the party itself as an institution,” he said.
“It is not unusual for political parties to explore collaborations for national stability, but as a party, the NNPP has made no such move or decision to adopt Tinubu or merge with the APC.”


Agbo Major also addressed the ongoing wave of defections from opposition parties to the ruling APC, clarifying that former NNPP members, including Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who were expelled from the party, are acting independently and not on behalf of the NNPP.

Speaking on the political future of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, Agbo Major noted that the governor’s case was “peculiar.”

“Governor Yusuf came into the NNPP through Kwankwaso’s movement and won the election. However, since assuming office, he’s been under intense control from Kwankwaso, who dictates his every move from Abuja,” he explained.
“If the governor decides to leave NNPP to free himself and serve the people of Kano more effectively, that’s understandable. We won’t hold it against him.”


When asked whether Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf could coexist in the APC, Agbo Major expressed doubt.

“It would be very difficult for both men to work together again under one roof unless the governor completely surrenders himself. Kwankwaso is extremely domineering — loyalty to him is total.”


Agbo Major’s statement comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, as key figures across major parties reposition themselves for influence and power.

Opposition Kicks As National Assembly Moves To Shift 2027 Elections To 2026.

Opposition in the country is enraged over a fresh bid by the National Assembly to move the 2027 presidential and governorship elections to November 2026.

The proposal is part of amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act, which seeks to move the elections forward by about six months to allow all pre and post-election litigations to be concluded before the May 29, 2027, handover date.

If the bid is successful, the presidential and gubernatorial elections would be conducted in November 2026, rather than the traditional February or March dates.

The proposal forms part of the draft amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act, which stipulate that elections for both offices must be held no later than 185 days before the expiration of the incumbent’s tenure on May 29.

Section 4(7) of the proposed amendment states that “elections into the office of the president and governor of a state shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.”

For legislative elections, Section 4(5) of the proposed amendment provides that “elections into the state houses of assembly and the National Assembly shall be held not later than 185 days before the date on which each of the houses stands dissolved.”

At Monday’s joint public hearing, the House Committee on Electoral Matters, chaired by Adebayo Balogun, argued that moving the polls to November 2026 would help “ensure that all manner of election litigations are dispensed with before the swearing-in of winners.”

Balogun stated that the goal was to create sufficient time for the resolution of election petitions, as the committee also proposed an amendment that would reduce the 180-day tribunal judgment period to 90 days.

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.

Personality, Not Party, Will Decide 2027 Elections – Prof Ahmad

Professor Ahmad has said that the 2027 general elections will not be decided by party loyalty but by the strength of individual personalities.

On the State of the PDP

Speaking on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he emphasized that the party remains strong despite past setbacks:

“We are still in PDP. We are not planning to leave. The party may rise and fall, but right now PDP is rising. We are preparing for our convention in Ibadan, and we will move forward.”

When asked about governors who left the party, Ahmad insisted:

“Governors don’t make parties; parties make governors. People make parties, not individuals.”

On Court Cases After Elections

Addressing concerns that the PDP failed to challenge election results in 2019 and 2023, he clarified that the party did, in fact, go to court:

“In 2023, several local governments, including mine, went to court. I personally went to court. Anyone claiming PDP didn’t go to court is not telling the truth.”

He recalled irregularities during collation in his local government, saying results were altered but not announced at the collation center because officials feared public backlash.

On Bukola Saraki and APC Rumors

Responding to claims that former Senate President Bukola Saraki was aligning with the APC, Ahmad dismissed the reports:

“These are fantastic lies. Saraki has invested his time and energy in rebuilding PDP. If he had anything to do with Tinubu or APC, PDP would have collapsed by now. The ADC narrative was just a flash in the pan.”


He added that PDP remains open to reconciliation with other groups:

“PDP has a large heart. Our friends in ADC or elsewhere are welcome. Let’s work together to rescue this state and the country from APC.”


On 2027 Elections

Ahmad predicted that Nigerians will prioritize individual credibility over party lines in 2027:

“People will look at candidates and say, ‘You are good, but not in my party, yet I will vote for you.’ Or, ‘You are in my party, but you are not good, so I won’t vote for you.’ Party loyalty will not decide 2027—it will be about personality.”


On Electoral Reforms and Tinubu’s Legacy

Ahmad stressed the need for credible elections to restore faith in democracy. He urged President Tinubu to enshrine Immediate Result Electronic Filing (IREF) into the constitution:

“From the polling unit, results should be uploaded directly to INEC’s portal. That alone will stop manipulation. Forget long lists of amendments—just constitutionalize IREF, and Nigeria’s democracy will change forever.”


He warned that without credible elections, democracy in Nigeria would continue to lose respect internationally.

“If President Tinubu truly loves Nigeria, he should deliver electoral reforms. That will be his lasting legacy.”

Ganduje, Barau, Kano APC Leaders Endorse Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

According to a report by Punch on Thursday, September 25, 2025, former All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin have reaffirmed their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition in 2027.

At a high-level strategy meeting in Abuja, Ganduje led key Kano political figures in declaring unity within the APC while outlining plans to reclaim Kano State from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

Reflecting on the party’s narrow loss in the 2023 governorship election, Ganduje stressed that the APC had remained politically intact and was now regaining ground through strategic alliances and defections.

“We are here to examine our progress in Kano State and to assure Mr. President that our party is solidly behind him,” Ganduje said. “You all know what happened during the last election—we were about to win, but unfortunately, we did not. Since then, our party has remained intact.”


He revealed that several high-profile politicians had defected to the APC, including Senator Kawu Sumaila, former House of Representatives members, a past Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, and ex-commissioners from the NNPP. Ganduje described these developments as evidence of APC’s growing political strength in Kano.

The meeting also focused on mobilizing for the ongoing voter registration exercise, which stakeholders described as a critical step toward securing victory in 2027. Ganduje encouraged Kano residents to register in large numbers, stressing that political outcomes depend heavily on voter participation.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin echoed Ganduje’s message, calling the gathering a strategic move ahead of the 2027 elections. He praised Tinubu’s contributions to the North, particularly in Kano, citing federal appointments, infrastructure projects, and institutional investments as proof of the President’s commitment.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi also lauded the administration, pointing to major road constructions and other development initiatives. He dismissed claims that Tinubu has neglected the North, describing such allegations as politically motivated.

The meeting concluded with a unified endorsement of Tinubu’s re-election bid and a strong resolve to return Kano to APC control, signaling the beginning of what promises to be an intense political campaign in the state ahead of 2027.

El-Rufai Warns Tinubu Could Become ‘Nigeria’s Paul Biya’

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has warned that President Bola Tinubu risks becoming “Nigeria’s Paul Biya” if not voted out in the 2027 elections. Hosting former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai accused the APC-led government of centralizing power, undermining federalism, and posing a greater threat to democracy than past military regimes.

He described Tinubu’s administration as “a disgrace to democratic ideals,” cautioning that failure to act decisively in 2027 could entrench authoritarian rule similar to Biya’s decades-long stay in power in Cameroon.

El-Rufai: Tinubu Govt Worse Than Military Regimes

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has described President Bola Tinubu’s administration as a bigger threat to democracy than past military governments. Speaking during a solidarity visit from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai labeled the government “a disgrace to the principles of democracy,” accusing it of authoritarian tendencies and centralizing power at the expense of federalism.

He compared Tinubu to Cameroon’s Paul Biya and warned that unless stopped in 2027, Tinubu could entrench himself in power. El-Rufai added that even past military leaders, including Buhari, were more tolerant of opposition than the current administration.

Atiku commended El-Rufai’s boldness and urged opposition leaders to unite in order to democratically unseat Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

AGG Slams APC League of Professionals Over Attacks on Primate Ayodele

The Alliance for Good Governance (AGG) has strongly criticized the APC League of Professionals (ALP) over its recent response to Primate Elijah Ayodele’s prophecies concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing ALP’s position as “a shameful display of ignorance, misinformation, and falsehood.”

In a statement signed by its president, Sola Johnson, AGG accused ALP of embarrassing itself by sponsoring media publications against the cleric, who has consistently issued spiritual counsel and warnings to Nigerian leaders.

“Day in and day out, the man of God is criticized for his prophecies, but this particular one by ALP is laughable. It reeks of ignorance, misunderstanding, and drunken misinformation. For a group that claims to be professionals, they have only succeeded in presenting themselves like stark illiterates and rumour peddlers,” Johnson said.


He dismissed as false and fabricated the claim that Primate Ayodele told President Tinubu not to contest in the 2027 elections.

“How can someone who has been advising on strategies that could make the president win or lose suddenly tell him not to contest? It is embarrassing that ALP would stoop so low to concoct lies,” he added.

On Prophecies About Trump and the Economy

Responding to Ayodele’s caution that Tinubu should be careful in his dealings with former U.S. President Donald Trump, AGG insisted the advice was both timely and crucial.

“This is a prophecy the president himself should take note of to make informed decisions. What exactly is paining this amateur group in this message? They are clearly more interested in attacking the prophet than protecting the president’s interest,” the group noted.

AGG also condemned ALP’s stance that prophets should not speak on economic matters, describing it as “evidence of serious illiteracy.”

“The Bible itself is full of examples where men of God shaped national economies. Joseph’s foresight saved Egypt from famine, Elijah foretold economic recovery in Israel. To say a prophet cannot speak on the economy is shallow reasoning,” Johnson argued.


On security matters, AGG clarified that Ayodele has expressed support for the idea of state police, but warned against its potential misuse by politicians.

The group further cautioned President Tinubu not to be swayed by groups like ALP, alleging they were more interested in undermining his administration than ensuring his success.

“This group is not after Tinubu’s success; they are after his failure. By trying to turn him against the word of God, they are pushing him toward defeat. The president must be very careful of such misguided elements,” Johnson warned.

Primate Ayodele Predicts Defeat for Tinubu and Atiku in 2027 Elections

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a fresh prophecy regarding Nigeria’s political future, predicting that both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar could face defeat in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a live prophetic session, Ayodele reiterated his earlier warnings that the next elections may produce unexpected outcomes.

“I told you two people will defeat Atiku and will defeat Tinubu. I’m still on it,” the cleric declared.


According to him, Nigeria’s political landscape is moving toward a major realignment, and the dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) may be seriously challenged. He noted that new coalitions and emerging leaders could reshape the country’s electoral future.

Primate Ayodele also emphasized the importance of unity among opposition parties, warning that internal rivalries could undermine their chances of success. He stressed that if the right alliances are forged, the ruling party may find it difficult to retain power despite its nationwide influence.

Political analysts suggest that Ayodele’s prophecy resonates with ongoing debates about whether Nigerians are growing weary of the APC–PDP rivalry. While some observers believe his reference to “two people” may point to fresh faces outside the usual political circle, others argue it could be about already established figures gaining ground ahead of 2027.

Ayodele, known for his consistency in issuing political prophecies, has once again stirred nationwide discussions. His latest revelation not only casts doubt on President Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term but also questions Atiku’s long-standing presidential ambitions.

With just two years until the polls, the cleric’s message has added more speculation about who might emerge as a “third force” strong enough to reshape Nigeria’s political destiny.

Obidient Movement Denies Asking Jonathan to Abandon 2027 Presidential Ambition for Peter Obi

The Obidient Movement has dismissed reports claiming it appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan to drop any plans of contesting the 2027 presidential election in favor of Mr. Peter Obi.

According to Independent News on Sunday, September 14, 2025, the National Coordinator of the movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, clarified in a conversation with Daily Independent that the claim was “misleading and inaccurate.”

Tanko explained that what the movement emphasized was the principle of reciprocity, pointing to Obi’s loyalty to Jonathan during a critical political moment in 2015.

“That report is false. We never asked former President Jonathan to step down for Peter Obi. What transpired was that I was asked to comment on Obi’s visit to Jonathan. I explained that they share a long-standing relationship and reminded people that Obi stood by Jonathan when others betrayed him. Therefore, it is only natural for Jonathan to reciprocate Obi’s gesture. At no time did I use the words ‘beg’ or ‘step down,’” Tanko stated.

He recalled that during Jonathan’s presidency, when he faced intense opposition and eventual defeat, many political heavyweights, including Rotimi Amaechi, worked against him. However, Obi remained steadfast in his support and refused to join the opposition’s campaign to oust Jonathan.

Tanko stressed that the Obidient Movement is not pressuring Jonathan, but rather calling for fairness and mutual respect. He added that as the 2027 elections draw closer, the movement believes Jonathan should naturally consider supporting Obi in recognition of his past loyalty.

News Brief: The National Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, says President Bola Tinubu’s policies are inflicting hardship on all Nigerians, leading to widespread discontent across the country. He noted that from market women to student leaders and political figures, citizens nationwide are lamenting the government’s economic decisions. Ahmed also dismissed claims that NNPP is solely focused on Kano State, stressing that the party is positioning itself as a national force ahead of the 2027 elections.

#Tinubu #NNPP #NigeriaPolitics

Rivers Budget Controversy: Fubara Proposed ₦1.1trn, Ibas Pushed ₦1.8trn Approved by NASS – Tariah

Former media aide to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, Opunabo Inkor-Tariah, has raised alarm over alleged financial discrepancies in Rivers State under the six-month emergency rule, which is scheduled to expire on September 18, 2025.

In an interview reported by Vanguard on Wednesday, Inkor-Tariah insisted that Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.) must provide a full account of how state funds were managed during the period.

He revealed that while Governor Siminalayi Fubara had initially presented a budget of about ₦1.1 trillion, Admiral Ibas submitted a revised budget of nearly ₦1.8 trillion to the National Assembly—an increase of over ₦600 billion—which was swiftly approved.

“Governor Fubara’s original budget was about ₦1.1 trillion, but Admiral Ibas presented a revised budget of nearly ₦1.8 trillion to the National Assembly, which was approved for spending during the emergency,” he stated.

According to Inkor-Tariah, Rivers generates more than ₦20 billion monthly from internally generated revenue (IGR), yet there has been little visible development on the ground to justify such massive spending. He argued that Rivers people deserve transparency and accountability in how public funds are utilized.

He further criticized the sidelining of Governor Fubara, describing him as a “ceremonial governor” with limited influence under the emergency arrangement.

“The Assembly will come back, the local government chairmen are Wike’s men, while commissioners will come from Fubara. So, Fubara will come and remain like that,” he warned, suggesting that the governor’s power may remain curtailed even after the emergency ends.

Inkor-Tariah dismissed Admiral Ibas’ claims of restoring peace, saying ordinary citizens, including youth corps members, insist that insecurity and hardship have worsened since Fubara’s suspension.

He described the emergency rule as a political tactic rather than a genuine response to insecurity, arguing that it was designed to weaken Fubara and consolidate control for entrenched political interests.

The former aide also maintained that political influence in Rivers is still firmly controlled by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who dominates both PDP and APC structures in the state. This, he noted, makes the 2027 elections a decisive moment for Rivers politics.

Beyond Rivers, Inkor-Tariah said dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s administration is deepening nationwide. He warned that if grievances are not addressed, there could be a push for a united opposition front to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 general elections.

Sam Amadi: “Nigeria Needs Fresh Leaders, Not Recycled Politicians”

Former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Sam Amadi, has sparked conversations about the future of Nigeria’s politics after questioning the recycling of familiar political figures ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a post on his official X account, Amadi asked:

“Can someone tell me what I would gain by changing Tinubu for Amaechi, Hope for Araraume, Malami for Gbaja, El-Rufai for Tinubu or Shettima? What is the point of the change? Why can we not have a different politics with the likes of Peter Obi, Adesina, Shehu Sani, Aisha etc? Why?”


According to him, merely rotating the same old leaders does not represent real change but only extends the cycle that has hindered Nigeria’s progress.

Amadi stressed that the country needs a new political direction driven by fresh voices and visionary leadership, not individuals who have already been in power without delivering transformative results.

He pointed to leaders like Peter Obi, Akinwumi Adesina, Shehu Sani, and Aisha Yesufu as examples of figures who could inject new energy and ideas into governance.

Until Nigeria breaks away from its entrenched political structures, Amadi warned, the nation may remain trapped in a cycle of disappointment.

GRV Defends Move to ADC, Says Peter Obi Was Fully Aware of His Defection

Former Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (GRV), has cleared the air on criticisms surrounding his defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics (Sept 7, 2025), GRV insisted that Peter Obi, LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, was fully informed and aligned before he made the switch.

“Certainly, His Excellency was aware. A representative of his was even at the declaration yesterday. We are aligned. There’s no step that’s being taken that he’s not aware of,” GRV stated.


He stressed that his decision was in line with a broader coalition of opposition parties working to unseat the APC in the 2027 elections.

However, his move sparked backlash from the LP leadership, which described it as “hasty and ill-advised.”
The party’s interim spokesman, Tony Akeni, argued that Rhodes-Vivour “jumped the gun” and should have followed Obi’s style of collaboration without abandoning LP.

GRV, who officially declared his defection at Alimosho LGA, Lagos, maintained that only a united opposition coalition can challenge the APC’s dominance in 2027.

Viral Moment: Peter Obi & El-Rufai’s Warm Embrace Sparks Political Buzz

Former governors Peter Obi of Anambra State and Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State set social media abuzz after a video of them warmly embracing went viral.

The clip, shared on the official Peter Obi Grassroots Mobilization X handle on Saturday, September 6, 2025, captured the moment at an event in Owerri, Imo State. Obi walked up to El-Rufai, extended a handshake, and the two exchanged a brief hug — a gesture that quickly ignited reactions across the country.

The encounter drew heightened interest as both politicians are now members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), an opposition coalition positioning itself as a formidable challenger to Nigeria’s dominant political blocs.

Online reactions have been mixed:
Some Nigerians applauded the display of cordiality between the two opposition figures.
Others speculated about the political undertones of their alliance, questioning whether it signals a deeper strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

Screenshots of these comments continue to circulate, reflecting curiosity, excitement, and skepticism about what the handshake and hug could mean for Nigeria’s political landscape.

Northern leaders demand sack of security chiefs, cabinet overhaul.

Abuja — The Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum (NENF), a coalition of socio-cultural and political leaders from the 19 northern states, has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately reshuffle his cabinet and overhaul the nation’s security architecture in response to Nigeria’s worsening crises.

In a strongly worded statement issued Sunday in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Dominic Alancha, the Forum said it had “deeply examined the painful conditions of the people of Northern Nigeria and the nation at large” and, after wide consultations, resolved to demand urgent and transformative action.

The group expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the “glaring underperformance” of several ministers, warning that the current cabinet lacks both competence and political capital to effectively drive the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“A ministerial appointment is not merely a reward for loyalty; it is a critical assignment. We therefore call on President Tinubu to immediately dissolve and reshuffle the Federal Executive Council (FEC), replacing underperforming ministers with individuals of proven integrity, exceptional capability and significant political influence,” the statement read.

According to the Forum, a stronger cabinet is essential not only for national development but also for the President’s political survival ahead of the 2027 elections.

On insecurity, NENF lamented that banditry, terrorism and kidnapping had crippled farming, commerce, and transportation across many states, describing the situation as a “full-blown catastrophe.”

It declared that the current Service Chiefs had failed despite enormous resources at their disposal, and therefore demanded their immediate dismissal. The Forum also called for the appointment of new military leaders with a clear, results-driven mandate and urged the declaration of a state of emergency on security in Northern Nigeria.

“This is not a call for militarization but for a targeted, multi-agency emergency operation to flush out terrorists, dismantle their networks, and restore order,” it stressed.

Kenneth Okonkwo: Peter Obi’s One-Term Presidency Promise Is “Pure Political Strategy”

Veteran Nollywood actor and politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, has claimed that the single-term presidency proposal of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is nothing more than a strategy to win over Northern voters ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, Okonkwo argued that Obi adopted the idea after realising he could lose Northern support without such a promise.

According to him, “It was Atiku Abubakar who first said he would do only one term. Peter Obi later keyed into it because he knew if he didn’t, he would lose the North completely.”

Okonkwo added that for any opposition party to stand a chance against an incumbent, its candidate must agree to serve just one term so no region feels sidelined.

He explained that Obi’s promise is designed to assure Northerners that he wouldn’t “shortchange” them if elected, but would complete the eight-year cycle for the South with just a single four-year tenure.