Fresh Twist in Nigerian Politics: Atiku Haske Organisation Expels Abba Atiku After Joining APC A fresh political drama has erupted as the Atiku Haske Organisation (AHO) expelled Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former VP Atiku Abubakar, over attempts to influence the group’s political direction. The AHO dismissed Abba’s directives as “null, void and dead on arrival” and reaffirmed its loyalty to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Despite the expulsion, the organisation reiterated its support for Atiku Abubakar as a credible leader for the 2027 elections. Abba’s move to join the ruling APC and endorse President Tinubu was described by Atiku as a personal decision, not alarming amid family politics. #AtikuAbubakar #AbbaAtiku #NigeriaPolitics

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?

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.

What Will Be the End of Nyesom Wike? Analysis of His Political Influence and Future Prospects” In this incisive opinion piece, Pelumi Olajengbesi, Esq., examines the political trajectory and future of Nyesom Wike, one of Nigeria’s most influential and polarizing politicians. Wike, formerly instrumental in shaping the emergence of President Tinubu, has long dominated Rivers State politics, pushing aside rivals and asserting a near-absolute influence over his political domain. His style, a combination of strategic brilliance, territorial control, and relentless confrontation, has both earned him admiration and created friction with allies and the opposition alike. Wike’s political approach has been defined by territorial command—he defines the political space, punishes disloyalty, and keeps opponents uncertain. This method proved highly effective when he fully controlled Rivers politics, yet the shifting political terrain has begun to challenge his authority. The analysis highlights that when his former protégé, Governor Fubara, aligned with the APC, Wike’s influence began to face constraints, illustrating that political power dependent on perception and intimidation can be fragile. Olajengbesi notes that Wike’s predicament is heightened by his dual position as both a useful ally and an outsider within the ruling party. While his support for Tinubu and his ability to destabilize opposition calculations have made him relevant at the federal level, his independence and confrontational style are increasingly perceived as a threat to party discipline and structure. As the ruling party prepares for the next political cycle, Wike’s influence risks erosion if it continues to undermine institutional hierarchy. The opinion piece predicts several possible outcomes for Wike: gradual isolation, where his access and influence diminish quietly; neutralisation, where he retains office but loses political leverage; or forced realignment, requiring him to fully submit to party structures, sacrificing the independence that has defined his political brand. However, Wike’s experience and strategic acumen suggest he may yet adapt, potentially transitioning from territorial dominance to coalition management, balancing influence with accommodation. Ultimately, Olajengbesi portrays Wike as a fascinating case study of power, strategy, and political survival, highlighting that his future depends not only on strength but on his capacity to navigate institutional politics without alienating the structures that sustain it. The piece underscores that in Nigerian politics, influence without institutional belonging is potent but precarious, and Wike’s next moves will determine whether his story ends in decline or reinvention.

#OpEd: Legacy of an Evil Leader By Bayo Oluwasanmi, December 19, 2025 The article frames Muhammadu Buhari’s legacy as that of an “evil leader”, leaving Nigeria with deep societal trauma and weakened institutions. Buhari’s tenure is criticized for corruption, economic mismanagement, and institutional decay, including politicized military/police and compromised legal systems. His leadership allegedly eroded truth, promoted propaganda, and fostered division along ethnic, religious, and political lines. The author compares Nigerian politics to the fable of the Dog, the Sheep, and the Wolves, suggesting visionary leaders are often undermined while corrupt elites thrive. Buhari’s 8-year rule is summarized under seven negative traits: incompetence, rigidity, intemperance, callousness, corruption, insularity, and evil. The piece warns that his legacy has normalized cruelty, fear, and division, leaving a lasting societal impact.

Okwy Chris reveals the big political shake-up ahead of the 2027 election — the most likely card Tinubu and the APC will play to correct the Muslim–Muslim ticket. According to him, General Christopher Gwabin Musa is now being quietly positioned as the preferred choice to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima in 2027. Sources allegedly say the full proposal has already been presented to Bola Ahmed Tinubu — and he reportedly “strongly embraced” the idea. If true, this could mark the beginning of one of the most unexpected political realignments in recent times, because the Muslim–Muslim ticket that brought Tinubu and Shettima into power was a big error (though I know some APC supporters on this platform will not agree). Is the military influence returning to the heart of Nigerian politics if the APC succeeds in replacing Shettima with Gen. Musa? Is this a strategic move… or a sign of deeper political calculations ahead of 2027? Knowing fully well that Trump is watching. Nigeria never stops surprising us. Stay woke. If this plan becomes official, do you think General Musa as VP is a GOOD move or a DANGEROUS one for Nigeria’s democracy? Let’s talk! If It’s Loud, It’s NewsFlash! Share this post to keep others informed. New here? Follow our page so you don’t miss any major updates. #newsflashngr #NigeriaDecides2027 #PoliticalUpdate

Sam Nda-Isaiah’s Legacy Lives On: Azu Ishiekwene Reflects Five Years After His Passing” In this reflective opinion piece, Azu Ishiekwene examines the enduring influence of Sam Nda-Isaiah, founder of LEADERSHIP newspaper, five years after his death. He highlights how Sam’s voice remains alive through his writings, especially his incisive columns on Nigerian politics, governance, corruption, and national security. Ishiekwene revisits several of Sam’s notable articles, showing how many of his warnings and analyses still hold relevance today—from the PDP’s internal crises to terrorism, corruption, and leadership failures. The tribute underscores Sam’s relentless fight against injustice, his bold political commentary, and the lasting imprint of his ideas on Nigeria’s public discourse. #AzuIshiekwene #SamNdaIsaiah #Opinion

“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.

Analyst Criticizes Atiku’s Use of Marriages as Political Appeal to Yoruba Voters A public affairs analyst, Dele Fanimo, has criticized attempts by politicians to use their marriages as evidence of national inclusivity, specifically referencing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s outreach to Yoruba voters. Speaking on Voice of the People TV, Fanimo questioned the sincerity of such tactics, arguing that marrying across ethnic lines does not necessarily prove genuine commitment to national unity. “Who is asking him in the first instance to tell us how much he loves Yoruba?” Fanimo asked rhetorically. He pointed out that Atiku has wives from multiple regions, including the Yoruba, Igbo, and South-South, but maintained that this does not automatically make him a “pan-Nigerian.” “Titi Atiku is his wife, the same way he also married somebody from Igboland, the same way he also married from the South-South—and that doesn’t make him a pan-Nigerian,” Fanimo said. The analyst added that Nigerian voters are becoming more discerning about political rhetoric: “Nigerians are becoming conscious of the lies politicians put up,” he observed. Extending his criticism beyond Atiku, Fanimo said the issue reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics. “It’s not only Atiku. Most politicians, when they need your vote, there is nothing they will not tell you,” he remarked. His comments echo a growing skepticism among political observers about the sincerity of politicians’ appeals to different ethnic and regional groups during campaigns

Obasanjo Recounts Emotional Moment He Learned of Abacha’s Death Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has relived the dramatic moment he was informed of the death of General Sani Abacha, the late military ruler whose regime imprisoned him. Speaking in a video shared by Symfoni TV, Obasanjo reflected on one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political eras, offering rare personal insight into how the end of Abacha’s rule became both a personal and national turning point. Obasanjo was jailed in 1995 after being accused of plotting a coup against Abacha’s government—charges he consistently denied. Despite the uncertainty of his imprisonment, he said he held on to the hope of eventual freedom, though he never knew when it would come. According to him, the shocking news of Abacha’s death on June 8, 1998, first came from a prison warder. “The day Abacha died, a warder came to me and said, ‘Sir, congratulations.’ I asked him, ‘Warder, what is the problem?’ He replied, ‘Our enemy has died.’ I asked again, ‘Who is your enemy?’ And he said, ‘Abacha.’” Initially, Obasanjo thought it might be a trap or misinformation. But as more warders repeated the same news, he realized something significant had happened. Within a week, Obasanjo was released from Yola Prison, marking the start of his remarkable political comeback. Abacha’s sudden death ended a regime often associated with human rights abuses, political repression, and corruption. His successor, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, quickly initiated a transition program that restored democracy in 1999. For Obasanjo, the moment was more than personal liberation—it was a national rebirth. Less than a year later, he won the presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and became Nigeria’s first civilian president of the Fourth Republic. Reflecting on his imprisonment, Obasanjo has often said the experience deepened his commitment to democracy and shaped many of his decisions while in office. Since leaving office in 2007, he has remained an influential voice in Nigerian politics, frequently speaking on governance, security, and development. His recollections of the Abacha years, analysts say, highlight how moments of personal suffering can intersect with broader national transformation. Obasanjo’s story remains a testament to resilience, timing, and the unpredictable turns of history that have defined Nigeria’s journey from military rule to democracy.

BASA Accuses Governor Makinde of Betrayal, Says He Abandoned Her Local Government for Another Candidate Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (BASA), a former Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Matters to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has voiced strong disappointment over what she described as a breach of political trust by the governor. In a video interview shared on the official YouTube channel of Edmund Obilo, BASA recounted how Governor Makinde had personally pledged support for her ambition to contest a seat in the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to her, the governor encouraged her candidacy as part of his stated commitment to increase women’s participation in politics. However, BASA said things took a different turn when the decisive moment arrived. She claimed the governor abandoned his promise, leaving her and her supporters embarrassed, while instead throwing his weight behind another consensus candidate. “He disappointed and abandoned my local government in front of all of us the same day he chose the other consensus candidate,” she said. Her remarks have sparked debate among political observers, with many pointing to her experience as another example of how women often face exclusion despite ongoing calls for gender inclusivity in Nigerian politics. BASA’s outburst is expected to reignite discussions about trust, loyalty, and fairness within the PDP in Oyo State, while also highlighting broader concerns about women’s representation in leadership positions.

Ifeanyi C. Ejiofor, Esq. (KSC), a distinguished lawyer and prominent human rights advocate, recently spoke with The Sun about various governance challenges facing Nigeria, focusing on the impact on the Igbo people and the security situation in his home state, Anambra. During the interview, Ejiofor addressed the topic of the 2027 general elections, specifically responding to remarks made by Dr. Reuben Abati. Abati had suggested on national television that the Northern region of Nigeria would likely oppose Peter Obi’s proposal for a one-term presidency due to deep-seated mistrust rooted in the Civil War era. Ejiofor concurred with this perspective, stating that Abati’s comment accurately reflects the enduring political realities shaped by the unresolved consequences of Nigeria’s civil conflict. Although the war formally ended in 1970, Ejiofor explained, its aftereffects continue to influence Nigeria’s political, economic, and social structures decades later. He pointed out that the legacy of exclusion remains deeply embedded, particularly affecting the Igbo ethnic group. Ejiofor highlighted how the current political framework appears to be structurally biased against the South-East, with key national leadership roles often inaccessible to people from that region. This ongoing marginalization fosters a sense of alienation among the Igbo population. Experts have long noted that Nigeria’s presidency has traditionally rotated between the North and South-West regions, effectively sidelining the South-East and diminishing the prospects for an Igbo presidency. Reflecting on this reality, Ejiofor remarked that it would be easier for “an elephant to pass through the eye of a needle than for an Igbo to become president under the present political structure.” He emphasized that this difficult truth may be uncomfortable for some but remains the stark reality of Nigerian politics. Ejiofor’s comments bring to light the enduring ethnic and regional divisions within Nigeria’s political landscape, underscoring the urgent need for more inclusive governance and reconciliation to heal long-standing wounds.

Deji Adeyanju Slams ‘Obidient’ Movement Over Online Harassment of Prominent Nigerians Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has once again criticized the online conduct of supporters of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, popularly called the “Obidient” movement. Speaking in an interview reported by The Cable on Saturday, August 30, 2025, Adeyanju alleged that Obi’s supporters have consistently harassed prominent Nigerians who chose not to support the former Anambra governor. He cited respected personalities in arts, culture, and politics — including veteran actress Joke Silva and Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka — as victims of coordinated online attacks. According to him, dissent and neutrality are no longer tolerated by these online “mobs,” who insult, demonize, and even label critics as part of what they call the “Obidient Gulag” — a reference to the infamous Soviet labor camps of the mid-20th century. Adeyanju also referenced the backlash against actress Mercy Johnson, who faced severe criticism after endorsing President Bola Tinubu at an APC rally. He argued that such cyberbullying discourages freedom of expression and undermines Nigeria’s democratic values. “Reducing politics to intimidation and mob action on social media risks creating deeper societal divisions,” he warned. While Adeyanju’s remarks have fueled renewed debate about civility in political discourse, some observers insist that the passion of Obi’s supporters stems from long-standing frustration with Nigeria’s political elite. Nonetheless, his comments have reopened conversations about tolerance, democracy, and the growing influence of social media in Nigerian politics.

Jonathan Meets IBB & Abdulsalami in Abuja Amid Ongoing National Consultations Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on Sunday paid a courtesy visit to former Nigerian heads of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at their Abuja residence. The closed-door meeting reportedly lasted several hours, though details have not been made public. Jonathan, known for his consistent calls for dialogue and consultation in tackling Nigeria’s challenges, is believed to have used the visit as part of his wider engagement with elder statesmen across the country. Generals Abdulsalami and Babangida remain towering figures in Nigerian politics. Abdulsalami is revered for ushering in the Fourth Republic in 1999, while Babangida remains a key voice in national discourse, having ruled between 1985 and 1993. Jonathan, who governed from 2010 to 2015, has maintained regular contact with past leaders, fostering discussions on unity, governance, and peace. His Abuja visit once again highlights the tradition of former leaders consulting one another to strengthen national stability. #GoodluckJonathan #IBB #Abdulsalami #NigeriaPolitics #Leadership #Unity #NationBuilding

2027 Elections: Ayodele Warns of Rising “Giant” That Could Reshape Nigeria’s Political Future Prophet Ayodele has set Nigeria’s political space buzzing with a striking prophecy about the emergence of a formidable new candidate who could change the course of the 2027 general elections. He stressed the growing importance of public opinion in determining political outcomes, warning that the country’s political elite must prepare early to avoid being blindsided by this rising force. Ayodele urged leaders to recognize the shifting tides of Nigerian politics and adapt quickly to maintain relevance and influence in the nation’s fast-changing political landscape. His message has already triggered intense debate both online and among political analysts, with many speculating about the identity of this “giant” and the alliances that could form ahead of the polls. As the 2027 elections draw closer, attention will increasingly focus on emerging figures and unexpected political shifts. #NigeriaPolitics #2027Elections #PoliticalProphecy #AyodeleSpeaks #PowerShift #EmergingLeaders #PoliticalGiant

ADC knocks PDP over moves to woo Obi, claims party has lost influence. Arewa Forum backs Jonathan’s return, dismisses Obi’s one-term pledge • PDP chieftain welcomes Jonathan, Atiku, Obi, seeks open presidential primary The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a swipe at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over reported efforts to woo Peter Obi, describing the development as a clear sign of the party’s political decline. National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, said it was “laughable” that the PDP, once dominant in Nigerian politics, was now “begging for candidates all over the place,” a situation he claimed reflected the former ruling party’s loss of relevance. “If the PDP is truly wooing Peter Obi, that tells you how low the party has degenerated,” Abdullahi said. “This is the same party that many Nigerians were once desperate to get its ticket. Now they are begging for candidates. Why would we be threatened by that?” Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, is also a key member of the ADC-led opposition coalition. His name has resurfaced in political circles following remarks by prominent PDP figures urging him to return to the party. Among those making the overtures are former Information Minister, Prof Jerry Gana, and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who recently described Obi as the de facto leader of the opposition. But Abdullahi dismissed the outreach, stating that Obi remains a part of the coalition and is fully aware of what he called the PDP’s “destructive internal dynamics.”

Gov Soludo shades ‘these other guys’ claiming they only want to do one term. Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has stirred reactions with a blunt remark targeting politicians who promise to serve only one term in office, suggesting such claims are unrealistic and illogical. Speaking during a high-energy rally in Anambra South to drum up support for his second-term bid, Soludo questioned the sincerity and mental soundness of any politician pledging to serve a single term, arguing that it contradicts both logic and constitutional provisions. “You come to people and say I will do only one term. Anybody, any politician that says that should be sent to a psych+attic home. Because the person must have some mental problem. When the constitution allows you to stay for eight years, they come and tell us I’m going to spend one term. Tell us where it has ever happened,” Soludo said. He challenged proponents of the single-term idea to cite any instance in Nigerian politics where such a promise was fulfilled, emphasizing that the country’s constitution clearly allows for two terms. As he pushes for re-election, Soludo’s statement underlines his intent to fully utilize the constitutional window to continue his development agenda for Anambra State, while throwing shade at political opponents he perceives as unserious or disingenuous.

“They say Tinubu is playing chess not checkers. 🧠 But who’s really pulling the strings in Nigerian politics? Share your theory 👇”

T-Pain and Other Nicknames Nigerians Call President Tinubu – And What They Mean President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria's 16th president, has acquired several nicknames over the years, each reflecting public perception, political influence, and his evolving leadership style. These names arise from admiration, satire, or criticism, and they highlight the complex relationship between Tinubu and the Nigerian people. Recently, a new nickname — T-Pain — has gained traction. This latest moniker underscores the economic struggles many Nigerians are currently experiencing. 1. T-Pain The most recent nickname, T-Pain, is a play on the name of the American singer and combines the letter “T” (for Tinubu) with “Pain.” It reflects the frustration of many Nigerians who are grappling with economic hardship, especially following the removal of fuel subsidies. The rising cost of living, inflation, and unemployment have deepened public discontent. While the name began as a critique, some of Tinubu's supporters have attempted to rebrand it positively — interpreting it as "Temporary Pain" — in line with his “Renewed Hope” manifesto, suggesting that current difficulties are necessary steps toward a better future. 2. Jagaban One of Tinubu’s most enduring titles, Jagaban, translates loosely to “leader of warriors.” Originating from the Hausa words ja (to pull) and gaba (front), it implies someone who leads from the front. “Jagaban Borgu” specifically refers to the Chief Warrior of the Borgu Kingdom, a title Tinubu holds. It signifies his dominance in Nigerian politics, especially in Lagos, where he is considered a political kingmaker. 3. Asiwaju A Yoruba term meaning “leader” or “forerunner,” Asiwaju emphasizes Tinubu’s trailblazing role in Nigerian politics. His strategic political moves and ability to shape the political landscape have cemented this title among supporters and critics alike. 4. City Boy The nickname City Boy reflects Tinubu’s deep ties to Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub. It highlights both his influence in urban politics and his central role in transforming Lagos during his tenure as governor. The name evokes admiration from some and criticism from others, depending on one's view of his legacy in the city. 5. Emilokan Emilokan, a Yoruba phrase meaning “It’s my turn,” became Tinubu’s rallying cry during the 2023 presidential campaign. It captured his ambition and belief that, after years of political groundwork, he had earned the right to lead Nigeria. The phrase resonated widely and became symbolic of his determination and political resilience. Political Reactions Political analyst Dr. 'Toks Oguntuga has noted that the T-Pain nickname, though humorous on the surface, is a serious emotional outlet for citizens grappling with economic pressure. He argues that such names reflect public sentiment and should not be dismissed as mere social media banter. As President Tinubu navigates his term, these nicknames — both flattering and critical — will continue to serve as barometers of his public perception.