Why Did Uba Sani’s Campaign Director-General Quit APC for ADC? Does Prof Muhammad Sani Bello’s Resignation Signal a Growing Crack in Kaduna Politics Ahead of Future Elections? Is the All Progressives Congress (APC) beginning to lose key political figures in Kaduna State? That question has taken center stage following the resignation of Prof. Muhammad Sani Bello, the former Director-General of Governor Uba Sani’s 2023 Campaign Council, who has formally defected from the APC to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Bello, a respected academic and former Commissioner of Education and Commissioner of Communications in Kaduna State, announced his decision in a resignation letter dated January 7, 2026, addressed to the APC Chairman of Dogarawa Ward, Sabon Gari Local Government Area. In the letter, he stated unequivocally: “This is to let you know of my decision to withdraw my membership of the APC with immediate effect.” Despite his exit, Bello maintained a diplomatic tone, expressing appreciation for his time in the party and describing his relationship with the APC as “mutually beneficial.” He concluded the letter with formal courtesies, signaling a calculated and orderly departure rather than a public confrontation. His defection is politically significant. Bello was not only a former commissioner but also a central strategist in Governor Uba Sani’s 2023 election victory, making his exit one of the most high-profile departures from the ruling party in Kaduna in recent times. Observers see the move as more than a routine party switch—it raises deeper questions about internal cohesion, loyalty, and ideological direction within the APC at the state level. Why did such a prominent figure abandon the ruling party for the ADC, a smaller but increasingly vocal opposition platform? While Bello did not publicly disclose his reasons beyond the formal resignation, analysts suggest the move may reflect growing dissatisfaction among some party elites, strategic realignment ahead of future elections, or concerns over political inclusion and governance style. The development also underscores the ADC’s quiet efforts to attract influential politicians, potentially reshaping opposition politics in Kaduna. With Bello’s credentials in governance, education, and communications, his presence could strengthen the ADC’s structure and messaging, especially in urban and intellectual circles. Politically, the defection fuels speculation about possible cracks within the APC’s power base in the state. Could more high-ranking members follow? Does this mark the beginning of a broader realignment ahead of upcoming electoral cycles? And what impact might this have on Governor Uba Sani’s political machinery? As Kaduna’s political landscape continues to evolve, Bello’s resignation from the APC and entry into the ADC signals a moment of uncertainty—and opportunity. Whether this move becomes a catalyst for wider shifts or remains an isolated defection will shape the balance of power in the state’s future political battles.

Police Detain Osun Activists Over Report of Deadly Stampede at APC Aspirant Bola Oyebamiji’s Residence The Nigerian Police have detained civic activists in Osun State following their reports of an alleged stampede that reportedly claimed three lives during a food distribution event at the Ikire residence of All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Bola Oyebamiji. The arrests have sparked widespread concern over freedom of expression, civic reporting, and due process. According to family sources, Mr. Abiodun Adegoke, National Coordinator of the Concerned Citizens of Nigeria (CCN), was arrested in Osogbo after publishing claims about a December 27, 2025 incident in which a stampede allegedly occurred during the distribution of rice and cash gifts. He had reportedly called on security agencies to investigate the incident and maintained that he possessed verifiable information and community accounts. Instead of being invited for questioning, he was allegedly arrested without prior engagement, denied bail, and faced possible transfer to Abuja without a court order. In a separate statement, the CCN condemned the arrest of another member, Mr. Iyiola Monsuru, describing it as an attack on freedom of expression and civic responsibility. The group said the stampede reportedly happened in the early hours of the morning during the distribution of food items and envelopes allegedly containing ₦2,000, leading to the deaths of a woman, Mrs. Buli Balogun (popularly known as Iya Eleelo), and two other persons. The organisation emphasized that incidents involving loss of life should be thoroughly investigated rather than suppressed, warning that arresting citizens for reporting such matters undermines democratic accountability. CCN demanded the immediate and unconditional release of its members and urged security agencies to conduct a transparent, impartial investigation into the alleged deaths. SaharaReporters learned that the arrests followed a social media post titled “Three Feared Dead At Bola Oyebamiji’s Residence In Ikire,” in which Adegoke called for an official probe and appealed to Osun residents to demand a full account of the circumstances surrounding the incident. The development has intensified national debate around police conduct, political pressure, human rights, and the shrinking space for civic engagement in Nigeria, particularly as the 2026 Osun State governorship election approaches.

Datti Baba-Ahmed Mocks Atiku’s Endless Presidential Bids, Says ‘He’s Been Contesting Since My NYSC Days Labour Party’s former vice-presidential candidate, Senator Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for his unrelenting presidential ambitions, saying Nigeria urgently needs new and visionary leaders to move the country forward. Speaking in a recent interview, Datti recalled that Atiku had already been an aspirant when he was serving his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), emphasizing that the former vice president has remained a serial contender in every election cycle without offering Nigerians tangible change. “When I was doing my NYSC, Baba Atiku was already an aspirant. In 2018, we contested primaries together. In 2023, I was a vice-presidential candidate elsewhere when his own vice president had left him. And now, in 2027 again,” Datti said, expressing frustration at the recycling of old political figures. He lamented that Nigeria’s political landscape has become hostile to genuine reformers and dominated by money politics, godfatherism, and unfulfilled promises that discourage competent citizens from participating. According to him, the nation is full of capable individuals ready to rebuild Nigeria, but the existing political structure prevents them from rising. “There are good Nigerians who can fix this country, but the system is treacherous and discouraging,” he stated. Datti reiterated his belief that a new generation of leaders is ready to take charge, urging Nigerians to rally behind fresh, credible leadership rather than recycling the same political elites. His remarks come amid speculation that Atiku, now linked with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), may once again contest the 2027 presidential election—his seventh bid since 1993.

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Is Peter Obi a ‘Political Traveller’ Gifted a Presidential Ticket? Why Labour Party VP Candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed Is Challenging Obi’s ADC Move and Declaring His Own 2027 Ambition Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed has launched a pointed political broadside that appears directed at his former principal, Peter Obi, following Obi’s decision to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition. Without naming him directly, Baba-Ahmed described Obi and other defecting politicians as “political travellers” who were “gifted a presidential ticket,” igniting fresh debate over loyalty, leadership, and the future of Nigeria’s opposition ahead of 2027. Speaking while declaring his intention to run for president, Baba-Ahmed insisted that he remains firmly within the Labour Party (LP), arguing that the party already “won a presidential election” and still represents a credible alternative to Nigeria’s dominant political blocs. He dismissed the ADC coalition as a gathering of “disgruntled politicians” who failed to properly challenge alleged constitutional breaches in the 2023 elections, questioning whether such alliances truly offer reform or merely recycle old power structures. At the heart of his message was a bold economic promise: Baba-Ahmed said that by June 2027, salaries of public servants—especially security personnel and teachers—would be quadrupled, insisting that “Nigeria can afford it.” He framed this pledge as a moral obligation to workers often overlooked despite their critical role in national stability and development. Positioning himself as a political outlier, Baba-Ahmed challenged rivals to produce “just one” major presidential aspirant who has never belonged to a ruling party. “I am that one,” he declared, stressing his independence and rejecting what he described as opportunistic movement between power centres. He added that he has no intention of joining any ruling party—except one he hopes to lead through the ballot. The former LP vice-presidential candidate also pushed back against claims that defections are weakening the Labour Party, saying neither he nor the party is responsible. According to him, individuals welcomed into LP in 2022 “with a presidential ticket” merely continued their political journey elsewhere. He urged supporters to “use the truth” amid what he called increasingly hostile online narratives. Recounting political history, Baba-Ahmed asserted that he aspired to the presidency before Peter Obi, citing events from 2018 when he contested in the PDP primaries and personally sought Obi’s support. While he spoke respectfully of Obi’s character, the implication was clear: leadership ambition, he argued, did not originate with his former running mate. Baba-Ahmed also highlighted Labour Party’s achievements despite financial constraints and what he termed “an era of perfected electoral fraud,” pointing to the party’s electoral gains—one state governor, eight senators, and around 40 House of Representatives members—as proof of its growing national footprint. The controversy now raises pressing political questions: Is Peter Obi abandoning the movement that propelled him in 2023? Does the ADC coalition represent a genuine opposition realignment or a gathering of familiar political actors? And can Datti Baba-Ahmed’s pledge of economic reform, party loyalty, and outsider status reshape Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race? As realignments continue, the Labour Party faces a defining moment over identity, leadership, and the path forward in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

What Will 2026 Really Bring for Nigeria and the World? Azu Ishiekwene Predicts Power Shifts, Economic Strain, AI Disruption, 2027 Politics and Who Wins the World Cup Is 2026 a year of quiet recovery—or the beginning of deeper political, economic and global turbulence? And is Nigeria already slipping into the politics of 2027? In what he describes as possibly his final annual forecast, journalist and columnist Azu Ishiekwene delivers a sweeping, high-stakes outlook on Nigeria and the world, blending political prediction, economic analysis, technology trends and global power shifts. Known for earlier forecasts that accurately anticipated election outcomes and cabinet shake-ups, Ishiekwene argues that 2026 will be a year where politics collides head-on with harsh economic realities, leaving citizens caught between daily hardship and recycled political promises. He warns that Nigeria’s economy will remain under pressure, with tensions growing between tight monetary policy and rising demands for fiscal expansion in a pre-election year. Could divisions inside the Ministry of Finance undermine investor confidence? And will petrol prices remain stable around ₦850 per litre, as he suggests, only if oil output rises and NNPC escapes its heavy crude obligations? While cheaper fuel from the Dangote Refinery may offer temporary consumer relief, Ishiekwene predicts continued instability in electricity supply, pointing to a fragile transmission system that still requires massive investment. He also foresees President Bola Tinubu possibly unveiling private-sector-led reforms in power transmission involving major business players. But is Nigeria already entering the politics of 2027 in 2026? Ishiekwene argues that although early elections are unlikely, political realignments are accelerating. With multiple opposition governors defecting to the ruling APC, claims of a creeping one-party state are growing. Yet, he suggests the reality is more complex: a weakened opposition plagued by internal fractures, financial constraints and a lack of coherent alternatives. Turning to the emerging African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition—uniting figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi and Rabiu Kwankwaso—he raises a critical question: is ADC truly built to win in 2027, or merely to survive until 2031? He predicts Atiku will clinch the party’s ticket over Obi, with Obi likely offered the vice-presidential slot—potentially triggering backlash among “Obidients.” With limited grassroots reach and the enormous financial demands of a presidential campaign, Ishiekwene concludes that ADC may struggle to pose a serious challenge to the ruling party in the next election cycle. Beyond Nigeria, he paints 2026 as a year shaped by geopolitical rivalry, especially between Donald Trump’s America and Xi Jinping’s China, and by growing global unease over U.S. trade policies, immigration enforcement and economic nationalism. Could gold and non-dollar assets accelerate as the world quietly prepares for a less dollar-centric future? He also highlights the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, warning that 2026 will mark a shift from basic generative AI to agentic, autonomous systems capable of independent action. As AI blurs the line between reality and fabrication, he predicts rising confusion, misinformation, and ethical challenges—ushering in what he calls the “Year of the Humanoid.” Even football is not spared his forecasting. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Ishiekwene tips Spain to win, citing tactical depth and cohesion, while acknowledging Morocco as Africa’s strongest hope. Ultimately, the essay asks uncomfortable but urgent questions: Is Nigeria drifting toward political dominance by one party? Will economic reforms truly ease citizens’ burdens—or merely reshuffle the pressure? Can a fractured opposition reorganise in time? And in a world increasingly shaped by AI and geopolitical rivalry, where does Nigeria truly stand? For Ishiekwene, 2026 is not just another year—it is a crossroads where technology, politics, power and survival intersect, setting the tone for Nigeria’s future well beyond the next election.

Is Nyesom Wike Undermining APC from Inside Government? Why Rivers APC Leaders Are Urging Tinubu to Sanction the FCT Minister Over ‘Anti-Party’ Activities Why would leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) publicly demand the removal of a sitting minister appointed by their own government? And is Nigeria witnessing one of the most serious internal party confrontations since the 2023 elections? A coalition of APC leaders has formally asked President Bola Tinubu to sanction or remove the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, accusing him of repeated anti-party conduct and statements that allegedly threaten national unity. The demand was conveyed in a memo addressed to the President through the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and was accompanied by plans for a protest at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. The signatories—including party chieftains and youth leaders—say their action was prompted by growing concern that Wike, a former Rivers State governor and still a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has consistently attacked APC leadership while serving in an APC-led federal government. Could a minister appointed from outside the ruling party be working at cross-purposes with the party that empowered him? At the heart of the dispute are comments allegedly made by Wike during a “thank-you tour” in Oyigbo, Rivers State, where he was said to have criticised the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, accusing him of meddling in state politics for personal reasons and warning that those who interfere would “get their fingers burnt.” APC leaders argue that such remarks amount to direct disrespect for the party’s National Working Committee and an attempt by Wike to exert influence in Rivers State despite not being a registered APC member. The coalition further alleges that Wike has been undermining the APC-led government in Rivers State through persistent public attacks on Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reportedly calling his emergence a “mistake” and suggesting that the situation should be corrected in the 2027 elections. Are these political opinions—or a calculated strategy to weaken APC’s hold on Rivers State from within? Beyond party politics, the memo raises alarms over what it describes as “dangerous and inflammatory” statements, including claims attributed to Wike that “nobody can enter Rivers State.” The APC leaders warn that portraying any part of Nigeria as a “no-go area” challenges federal authority, risks reviving tensions in the Niger Delta, and could undermine the President’s constitutional role as Commander-in-Chief. Could such rhetoric threaten national cohesion at a time when unity remains fragile? The group insists that failure to act against the FCT Minister may deepen internal divisions, erode party discipline, and weaken APC’s electoral prospects in Rivers State. They have vowed to escalate their protests nationwide if their demand is ignored. Is this a necessary stand to defend party supremacy and national unity—or a dramatic political showdown that exposes deeper fractures within Nigeria’s ruling party? As the standoff unfolds, all eyes remain on President Tinubu and whether he will heed the call to sanction one of the most powerful political figures in the country.

Why Is the ADC Inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees, Why Is It Rejecting Any Alliance With Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and Jonathan, and What Does This Signal for Nigeria’s 2027 Politics? A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved to strengthen its internal structure by inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees across three geopolitical zones, while firmly rejecting widespread speculation that the party is aligning with major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Goodluck Jonathan. In a communique signed by the party’s National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC said the exercise was part of efforts to entrench internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution ahead of future elections. According to the statement, the South-West Zonal Congress Committee was inaugurated in Ekiti State on January 7, 2026, with Hon. Bala Sani named Chairman and Hon. Kyauta Yakubu heading the Appeal Committee. The ceremony was conducted by the National Chairman himself. In the South-East, a similar inauguration took place in Enugu State on the same date. Barrister Adamu Ado Dauda was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, while Mrs. Iyabo Salami Alibi was named head of the Appeal Committee. The event was presided over by the Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Rufus Ekenmi. Earlier, on January 5, 2026, the party inaugurated its North-Central Zonal Congress Committee, appointing Hon. Lolo Ehirudu as Chairman of the Congress Committee and Hon. Sa’ad Aboki as head of the Appeal Committee. Beyond organisational matters, the ADC used the occasion to directly address growing rumours of a possible political alliance with prominent national figures. The party categorically dismissed claims linking it to Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former President Goodluck Jonathan. “The National Leadership reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution,” the communique stated, urging members and the public to “disregard and ignore” all reports of external political alignments. The party stressed that its focus remains on building “a strong, independent, and ideologically driven platform.” The ADC also emphasised that only duly registered and financially up-to-date members would be eligible to vote or contest in its congresses and internal elections, reinforcing its claim of commitment to internal order and party discipline. By distancing itself from Nigeria’s most recognisable political heavyweights, the party appears determined to project itself as an independent alternative within the country’s democratic space—one that is not defined by elite coalitions or personality-driven politics. As speculation continues over emerging alliances ahead of future elections, observers are asking: Why is the ADC rejecting any association with established political figures? Is the party positioning itself as a third-force movement, or is this a strategic move to consolidate its base before engaging in broader negotiations? And could this internal reorganisation reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of 2027? The ADC insists its direction is clear: no external alliances, strict internal democracy, and a people-centred political platform—a stance that may test both its independence and its appeal in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.

Peter Obi Allegedly Recruited Bwala via Obasanjo to Join 2023 Presidential Campaign – Tinubu Adviser Speaks Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has revealed that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, reportedly reached out to former President Olusegun Obasanjo to persuade him to join Obi’s campaign. Bwala made the disclosure during an interview on The Clarity Zone podcast while responding to remarks allegedly made by Obi, who had reportedly described Bwala as a “character.” Bwala dismissed the description as inoffensive, turning it around to describe Obi himself as the “character-in-chief,” accusing the former Anambra State governor of political theatrics. He further alleged that Obi’s supporters became disillusioned after the 2023 elections when their “fantasy” of his leadership collapsed, leading to aggressive social media attacks on critics. Criticizing Obi’s record as governor, Bwala claimed that doctors in Anambra State went on strike due to poor funding and working conditions, and accused Obi of prioritizing personal financial savings over infrastructure development. He also alleged that Obi avoided clarifying whether he benefitted from dividends from a bank where he served as chairman. On the claim that he had never visited Anambra, Bwala insisted he was well-acquainted with the area, naming roads and communities in the South-East to prove his familiarity. He detailed that Obasanjo had personally contacted him while he was abroad in London, urging him to join Obi’s campaign, with the communication facilitated by a named ambassador. Bwala concluded that his claims were verifiable and that he remained unbothered by Obi’s remarks, emphasizing that his criticisms were based on substantive facts rather than personal attacks. This revelation highlights lingering tensions and controversies from Nigeria’s 2023 elections, providing insight into behind-the-scenes political maneuvers and the dynamics between major political figures in the country.

Will Wike Have to Bow to Fubara in APC? Why the Party Says the FCT Minister Must Follow Rivers Governor—and What This Power Shift Means for 2027 Politics Is Nyesom Wike’s political influence in Rivers State finally being clipped? If the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), will he really be forced to operate under his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara? And what does this internal power struggle reveal about the battle for 2027? The APC has made its position unmistakably clear: if Wike defects to the ruling party, he will not assume a dominant leadership role over the sitting Rivers State governor. According to the party’s Director of Information, Bala Ibrahim, leadership within the APC is tied strictly to current political office—not past power. While Wike would be “given a position” within the party, Ibrahim stressed that he would “certainly be under” Governor Fubara, who currently holds the highest elective office in Rivers State. Why such a firm stance? Ibrahim explained that political authority follows office, not personality. “When he was the governor, he was followed. Now that he’s not the governor, he must follow,” he said, underscoring that once a leader vacates a seat, they no longer retain its power. In other words, past influence cannot override present authority in the APC’s hierarchy. But is this just about party protocol—or something deeper? Reports suggest that Wike’s alleged efforts to undermine Fubara’s 2027 re-election bid have suffered a major blow. Several APC governors are said to have rallied behind Fubara, signaling growing support for the Rivers governor at the highest levels of the party. Party sources indicate that renewed tensions between the two men were triggered after top APC figures openly endorsed Fubara for a second term—an outcome Wike is reportedly opposed to. What changed inside the APC? Insiders say the party leadership has become increasingly impressed with Fubara’s governance style and development projects, earning him favor among key decision-makers. This apparent shift in loyalty is being interpreted as a strategic move to consolidate power around the sitting governor while weakening Wike’s influence in his home state. The conflict reportedly deepened when Wike’s allies attempted to push a preferred candidate for the Imo governorship without consulting the APC Governors’ Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodimma. Party officials claim this move backfired, prompting APC governors to close ranks around Fubara as part of a broader effort to curb Wike’s political reach. Some insiders even suggest that powerful figures within the Tinubu administration no longer see Wike as a favored ally. So what does this mean going forward? If Wike eventually joins the APC, he may find himself navigating a party structure where authority is no longer shaped by his past dominance but by current officeholders—chief among them Governor Fubara. The unfolding drama raises critical questions: Is Wike’s era of control in Rivers coming to an end? Will Fubara emerge as the undisputed political force ahead of 2027? And is the APC deliberately re-engineering power in Rivers to sideline one of Nigeria’s most formidable political figures? As endorsements mount and party leadership draws firm lines, one thing is clear: Rivers State politics is entering a decisive phase—and the outcome could reshape the state’s political landscape for years to come.

Why Is Datti Baba-Ahmed Refusing to Follow Obi Out of Labour Party? As Nigeria looks toward the 2027 general elections, Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed has declared he will remain with the Labour Party, distancing himself from the political move made by his former running mate, Peter Obi. Baba-Ahmed, who was Obi’s vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election, said he has no intention of leaving the Labour Party, insisting that loyalty and consistency matter in politics. Peter Obi recently exited the Labour Party and aligned with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a coalition-backed platform aimed at challenging the ruling APC. However, Baba-Ahmed dismissed the ADC, describing its members as “disgruntled politicians” and questioning the credibility of the alliance. Speaking at the Labour Party’s national headquarters in Abuja, the former Kaduna North senator also signaled his readiness to play a role in fixing Nigeria ahead of 2027. Discussion Questions: Is Datti Baba-Ahmed right to stay with the Labour Party despite Obi’s exit? Does political loyalty matter more than strategy in Nigerian politics? Is the ADC a genuine alternative or just a coalition of unhappy politicians? Who stands a better chance in 2027: Labour Party loyalists or the new coalition? What do you think?

EFCC Warns of Political Interference in Investigations January 7, 2026 – Nigeria The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised concerns over alleged attempts by politicians, interest groups, academics, activists, and some Nigerian fugitives abroad to interfere in its investigations and prosecutions. Key points from the EFCC statement: The Commission claims these groups are orchestrating sponsored media attacks against EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede and the agency itself. The alleged goal is to portray political bias in EFCC operations and intimidate the agency into avoiding investigations involving opposition politicians. EFCC warned the campaign could intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections but stressed it will not be deterred from promoting public accountability. The agency reaffirmed its non-political stance, emphasizing that political affiliation does not protect anyone from investigation or prosecution. EFCC urged Nigerians to respect constitutional provisions, noting that presumption of innocence should not be misconstrued as a defense of suspects. The Commission dismissed claims of any political alliances and reiterated its commitment to operate without fear or favor.

Tinubu’s Information Minister Suspends Aide Over Unauthorised 2027 Niger Election Write-Up January 7, 2026 – Politics Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, has suspended his aide, Sa’idu Enagi, for publishing an unauthorised political article discussing the 2027 Niger State governorship election. The write-up, titled “Malagi 2027”, circulated without the Minister’s approval, prompting the Ministry to clarify that it does not represent Malagi’s views. In a statement, Malagi’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, urged the public to disregard the publication. He confirmed that Malagi had initiated an immediate investigation and disciplined the aide by issuing a suspension letter with immediate effect. The Ministry emphasized that Malagi maintains a positive relationship with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, highlighting that speculation about the 2027 elections could undermine their collaborative efforts for the state. Malagi remains focused on his federal responsibilities at the Ministry of Information. Prior to his ministerial appointment in August 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Malagi had contested the Niger State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC) but lost the primary to Umar Bago.

Can Datti Baba-Ahmed Really Replace Peter Obi? LP’s 2023 Running Mate Declares 2027 Presidential Ambition Amid Party Crisis Is a new political battle for Nigeria’s presidency already taking shape within the opposition—and could Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed be positioning himself as the next major contender? These are the questions dominating political discussions after the former Labour Party (LP) vice-presidential candidate in the 2023 election formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidency. Baba-Ahmed made the announcement at a rally at the Labour Party’s national secretariat in Abuja, at a time when the party is grappling with internal realignments following the high-profile exit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). His declaration comes barely days after Obi’s departure, instantly igniting debate about the future direction of the Labour Party and the broader opposition ahead of the next general election. Addressing party members and supporters, Baba-Ahmed was quick to dismiss any suggestion that his ambition was a reaction to Obi’s political move. Instead, he insisted that his presidential aspiration predates his alliance with Obi, stressing that he was not “following anybody’s trajectory” or attempting to step into anyone’s political space. According to him, records clearly show that he had sought the presidency even before Obi entered the 2023 race. He recalled his participation in the 2018 presidential primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Port Harcourt, noting that his eventual decision to serve as Obi’s running mate was driven by what he described as a rare opportunity for national unity rather than personal ambition. For Baba-Ahmed, aligning with Obi was not a surrender of his own political vision but a strategic choice aimed at offering Nigerians an alternative leadership model. Beyond ambition, his speech touched on sensitive but unavoidable themes in Nigerian politics—religion and ethnicity. Baba-Ahmed openly acknowledged his identity as a practising Muslim and a Hausa man, but maintained that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every qualified citizen the right to seek elective office. According to him, his decision to run is rooted in what he described as a genuine desire to help rescue Nigeria from its many challenges, rather than sectional or personal interests. However, he also struck a cautious tone, emphasizing that he would respect due process within the Labour Party and the electoral framework. While affirming his intention, he stated that he would not formally pursue the ticket until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases its timetable and the party leadership officially calls for aspirants. To him, this approach reflects both loyalty to party structures and adherence to democratic norms. His declaration has added a new layer of complexity to an already evolving opposition landscape. With Peter Obi now outside the Labour Party, questions are being raised about who will command the loyalty of the party’s grassroots supporters, many of whom were mobilized by the “Obidient” movement in 2023. Can Datti Baba-Ahmed inherit that momentum, or will the party struggle to redefine itself without its most visible figure? Reacting to the announcement, Labour Party National Chairman Julius Abure praised Baba-Ahmed for remaining within the party despite speculation that he might defect following Obi’s exit. For party loyalists, his decision to stay is being interpreted as a signal of continuity and internal stability. For critics, however, it raises deeper questions: does the Labour Party still have a unified ideological direction, or is it entering a phase of leadership contest and fragmentation? As 2027 approaches, Baba-Ahmed’s declaration invites broader national reflection. Is Nigeria’s opposition finally preparing early for the next election, or is this the beginning of another cycle of internal rivalry that could weaken alternative voices? Can Baba-Ahmed’s experience, ideology, and personal narrative convince Nigerians that he offers something fundamentally different from the political establishment? And perhaps most importantly, can he fill the vacuum left by Peter Obi’s departure—or will the Labour Party need a complete reinvention to remain politically relevant? On Fintter, this development is more than a headline. It is a conversation about leadership, loyalty, and the future of opposition politics in Nigeria. Is Datti Baba-Ahmed the natural successor within the Labour Party, or is his ambition likely to deepen internal divisions? Can he rally young voters and reform-minded citizens the way Obi once did? 💬 What do you think? Is Datti Baba-Ahmed the right figure to lead the Labour Party into 2027—or is the party losing its political identity? Share your views and join the debate on Fintter.

Is Tinubu Failing Yoruba Land? Pan-Yoruba Group Slams President Over Insecurity, Kidnapped Monarchs and ‘Silence From Power Is Nigeria’s security crisis finally reaching a breaking point in Yoruba land—and is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu truly doing enough to stop it? These are the urgent questions being raised after a Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, publicly condemned the President over what it described as his “deafening silence” in the face of worsening insecurity across the South-West. The group’s outcry followed the shocking abduction of a Kwara State monarch, Oba S. Y. Olaonipekun, and his son, Olaolu, who were reportedly kidnapped by suspected terrorists in the Ile-Ire district. For many observers, the incident marks a dangerous escalation in Nigeria’s security crisis: when even traditional rulers—symbols of authority, culture, and community stability—are no longer safe, what hope remains for ordinary citizens? In a strongly worded statement signed by its Convener, Olusola Badero, and released through Home Director Princess Balogun, the group accused President Tinubu of abandoning his constitutional duty as the nation’s chief security officer. According to the group, violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings have spread across Yoruba communities with little visible federal response. They argued that while statements are often issued, concrete action has been painfully absent. The union alleged that forests and rural communities in parts of Kwara and the wider South-West have become safe havens for armed groups posing as herdsmen, whom they directly described as terrorists. It lamented what it called the humiliation of Yoruba traditional institutions, stressing that the kidnapping of monarchs was once unimaginable in the region’s history. Quoting a Yoruba proverb—“Oríadé kì í sùn tán” (Royalty does not sleep outside)—the group said the abduction of kings represents not only a security failure but also a deep cultural wound. Beyond insecurity, the group launched a broader political critique of President Tinubu’s leadership. They accused him of prioritising personal interests, political allies, and future elections over the immediate safety and welfare of citizens. They further criticised what they described as his frequent foreign trips, alleging that he enjoys public funds abroad while Nigerians face poverty, fear, collapsing healthcare, and deteriorating schools at home. For the group, this contrast symbolises a widening gap between those in power and the people they govern. The statement also targeted Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, accusing the state government of failing to protect residents. The group demanded the immediate release of the abducted monarch and his son, as well as other kidnapped citizens, including workers from the Kwara State Ministry of Works. To underline what it sees as a pattern of lawlessness, the union recalled earlier incidents, including the killing of Segun Aremu, a retired army general and monarch (the Olúkòrò of Koro), and the abduction of Kamilu Salami, the Oníbàrà of Bayagan Ile, who reportedly spent weeks in captivity before regaining freedom. These cases, the group argued, show that the crisis is not isolated but systemic. Perhaps most striking is the group’s warning that continued political inaction could lead to long-term devastation: deserted villages, abandoned farmlands, and forests fully occupied by armed groups. They questioned how elections can even matter if citizens are no longer safe enough to live in their communities. “Who will be alive to vote,” they asked, “if our villages are deserted and our forests controlled by terrorists?” The union went further, calling on Yoruba people at home and in the diaspora to take collective responsibility for protecting their region, suggesting that reliance on political leaders who have “clearly failed” could invite even greater catastrophe. As this controversy unfolds, Nigerians are left with uncomfortable but necessary questions: Has the federal government lost control of internal security? Is President Tinubu doing enough to protect his own region? And what happens when traditional institutions—once seen as untouchable—become targets of violence? On Fintter, this story is more than breaking news; it is a national conversation about leadership, accountability, and survival. Are these criticisms justified, or are they politically motivated? Can Nigeria still reverse its security decline, or has the crisis reached a point of no return? The answers may shape not just the future of Yoruba land, but the fate of the entire nation. 💬 What do you think? Is Tinubu truly failing on security—or is the crisis beyond any single leader? Share your thoughts and join the debate on Fintter.

PDP Plans Strategic Meetings with Peter Obi, Atiku, and Key Powerbrokers Ahead of 2027 Elections” The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to engage with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other influential political figures as part of its strategy to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Ogidi, PDP South-South Chairman, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday. Ogidi revealed that the party has already begun consultations with key political actors, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), to signal that the PDP remains relevant despite internal challenges. He stressed that meetings with Obi and Atiku, both former PDP stalwarts now aligned with other political platforms, are part of a deliberate effort to reconnect with major opposition figures. Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar were previously PDP vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. The outreach reflects the PDP’s commitment to unifying opposition voices and strengthening its democratic credentials. The PDP’s efforts coincide with ongoing preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections. On Tuesday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, the delegation received Jonathan’s assurance of continued loyalty and active support for the PDP. Turaki described the former president’s commitment as “very reassuring and encouraging”, highlighting the PDP’s determination to reorganize, strengthen internal cohesion, and mobilize key political actors ahead of critical upcoming elections. The PDP’s outreach initiative is viewed as a strategic move to solidify its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, heal internal divisions, and present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the years leading up to the 2027 polls.

“Why Was PDP’s Ekiti Governorship Candidate Oluyede Excluded From INEC List? Is Nigeria’s Electoral Process Transparent?” Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State have taken to the streets, staging a peaceful protest at the INEC state office in Ado-Ekiti, over the removal of their governorship candidate, Dr Wole Oluyede, from the official candidate list for the 2026 election. The protest highlights growing concerns about transparency, accountability, and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process. Dr Oluyede, officially declared the PDP flagbearer by the party’s National Working Committee led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN), was shocked to find his name missing from INEC’s portal despite INEC previously supervising and confirming his emergence during party primaries. Supporters insist that the exclusion raises serious questions about due process and the integrity of the electoral system. INEC officials in Ekiti stated that only the national headquarters can provide an official explanation, leaving party members and voters anxious and frustrated. The incident has sparked widespread debate about whether powerful party factions and bureaucratic lapses are undermining the rightful representation of voters. This situation begs urgent questions: Why was Dr Oluyede removed despite legal recognition as PDP’s candidate? Is the electoral body acting transparently? What does this mean for democracy in Ekiti and across Nigeria? Fintter readers, we want to hear from you: Should INEC be more accountable to voters in situations like this? How can Nigeria ensure that party candidates are not unfairly excluded? Join the conversation in the comments and share your thoughts.

Atiku Abubakar Refuses to Step Down from ADC Presidential Race, Calls Tinubu a ‘National Liability’ Ahead of 2027 Elections Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emphatically ruled out stepping aside from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential race, accusing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of attempting to weaken opposition parties and establish a de facto one-party state. In a statement issued through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, on January 7, 2026, Atiku dismissed calls for him to relinquish his ambition in favor of a southern candidate, describing such pressure as serving Tinubu’s interests rather than those of Nigerians. Atiku accused the APC-led government of punishing economic policies, shrinking democratic space, and systematically undermining opposition parties. He emphasized that the ADC is on a “national rescue mission” to restore democracy and build strong structures nationwide, and warned that no intimidation, manipulation, or sabotage would derail the party’s plans. He also referenced Peter Obi’s recent formal entry into the ADC as a sign of the ruling party’s fear of a united opposition, reinforcing his stance that if anyone should step aside in 2027, it should be President Tinubu.

January 6 Was an ‘Attempted Coup’ by Trump to Overturn 2020 Election, Nancy Pelosi Says on Fifth Anniversary of U.S. Capitol Attack Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has described the January 6, 2021 attack on the United States Capitol as an “attempted coup” incited by then-President Donald Trump to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Marking the fifth anniversary of the attack in a statement posted on X, Pelosi said the violence was not a spontaneous event but the culmination of a deliberate campaign to undermine democratic institutions, the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power. She recalled how lawmakers, staff, journalists and law enforcement officers were forced to flee as the Capitol was overrun, with many officers beaten and left physically and psychologically scarred. Pelosi warned against efforts to downplay or rewrite the events of January 6, criticized moves to pardon or glorify those involved, and urged Americans to remain vigilant in defending democracy, protecting voting rights and holding accountable anyone who seeks to place themselves above the Constitution. #January6 #NancyPelosi #USPolitics #CapitolAttack #Democracy #Trump #2020Election #RuleOfLaw #UnitedStates

Kayode Ojo Campaign Accuses Oyebanji Government of Harassment, Secret Detention and Intimidation of APC Supporters Ahead of Ekiti 2026 Election The campaign organisation of APC governorship aspirant Engineer Kayode Ojo has accused the Ekiti State Government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji of intimidation, unlawful arrests, harassment and secret detention of its members ahead of the 2026 governorship election. In a statement obtained by SaharaReporters, the group alleged that state authorities, in collaboration with security agencies, are targeting party members who support Ojo, treating them as “enemies” within the same party. The campaign highlighted several cases of alleged persecution, including the arrest and secret detention of Akogun Abayomi, popularly known as Lustay, who was reportedly denied access to his family, lawyers and medication without formal charges. The organisation also accused the Rapid Response Squad of political coercion, judicial bias, and abuse of police powers, while calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the National Judicial Council and prominent national figures to intervene. It demanded the immediate release of all detained supporters and an independent investigation, warning that repression, fear and internal party intimidation threaten democracy, rule of law and political freedom in Ekiti State. #EkitiPolitics #KayodeOjo #Oyebanji #APC #2026Election #HumanRights #PoliticalIntimidation #NigeriaPolitics #RuleOfLaw