Politics
I joined Peter Obi’s 2023 ticket out of sympathy, not ideology – Baba-Ahmed
By Abigail David
Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, has revealed that his decision to run alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election was driven by sympathy rather than political alignment.
Speaking during an interview with Symfoni, Baba-Ahmed said Obi had approached three prominent politicians before selecting him as a running mate, but all declined the offer. According to him, he felt compassion for Obi and concern about Nigeria’s situation, prompting him to accept the position.
He explained that he volunteered to support the ticket because he believed it was in the country’s interest, describing himself as someone who has always stepped forward when he felt Nigeria needed help.
Baba-Ahmed also stressed that his political relationship with Obi had limits, insisting that the former Anambra governor does not determine his political future.
“With due respect, he does not own my politics. He does not own me. I am independent,” he said.
The former senator, who left the Labour Party for the Peoples Redemption Party in May 2026, used the interview to distance himself from Obi’s recent political moves.
He argued that internal crises within the Labour Party were not sufficient grounds for leaving the party, questioning whether similar leadership challenges could not emerge in any other political platform.
Baba-Ahmed maintained that political actors should remain and address internal party disputes rather than move elsewhere, adding that Obi’s decision to leave the Labour Party was his personal choice.
The remarks offer fresh insight into the relationship between the two politicians, who contested the 2023 presidential election on the Labour Party platform and finished third in the race.
Politics
Group Urges INEC to Investigate Alleged Election Results Manipulation Remarks by Kaduna Governor’s Aide
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A civil society organisation, Concerned Citizens for Electoral Accountability in Kaduna State, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to investigate remarks allegedly made by a political aide to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani regarding past election results in Igabi Local Government Area.
In a petition addressed to the INEC Chairman and dated June 1, 2026, the group expressed concern over a viral video and media reports attributed to Hon. Abubakar Mamadi, Special Adviser on Political Matters to the governor. The petition, signed by Suleiman Usman Yusuf, Jalal Falal, and Abubakar Ibrahim, Esq., cited reports alleging that Mamadi made comments at a political gathering on May 29 concerning the conduct of previous elections in the area.
The group stressed that it was not alleging wrongdoing and acknowledged that the authenticity, context, and meaning of the reported remarks remain subject to verification. “We do not presume the guilt of any individual and make no definitive allegation that any crime has been committed,” the petition stated. The organisation urged INEC and relevant authorities to review the original recording, verify its authenticity, prepare an official transcript and translation where necessary, and obtain statements from individuals mentioned in the reported remarks.
According to the petitioners, a transparent review would help strengthen public confidence in the electoral process ahead of future elections. The group emphasized that its request is aimed at promoting accountability and protecting electoral integrity, while respecting the constitutional rights and presumption of innocence of all parties involved.
Politics
Abia South Senatorial Aspirant Eruba Promises Jobs, Development and Grassroots Representation
By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu
Aspirant for the Abia South Senatorial District seat on the platform of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Bestman Eruba, has outlined his plans for the district, pledging to prioritise job creation, youth empowerment, and grassroots development if elected.
Speaking on his ambition, Eruba said his understanding of the needs of communities across Abia South would guide his representation in the Senate. “I know what Abia South needs at the grassroots level. If elected, I will work to deliver meaningful development and improve the lives of our people,” he said.
The YPP aspirant also acknowledged the contributions of the current senator representing the district, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, commending his service and commitment to the constituency. According to Eruba, his candidacy represents an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to the district’s representation at the National Assembly.
He pledged to focus on attracting federal projects and government presence to communities within the district while promoting policies that support economic growth and employment. Eruba further promised quality representation, effective legislative oversight, and the sponsorship of laws aimed at addressing the challenges facing constituents.
He also assured residents that he would remain accessible and accountable to the people throughout his tenure if elected. The Abia South Senatorial District election is expected to feature candidates from several political parties ahead of the next general elections.
Politics
Labour Party Factions Produce Rival Governorship Candidates in Nasarawa Ahead of 2027 Election
By Abel Zwanke, Lafia
The leadership dispute within the Labour Party in Nasarawa State deepened over the weekend as rival factions conducted separate governorship primaries and announced different candidates for the 2027 governorship election.
One faction declared Engr. Hon. Ibrahim Afaka Azamu as its governorship candidate, following what it described as a transparent primary conducted in accordance with the party’s constitution and guidelines.
In a statement issued after the exercise, the faction said the primary reflected members’ commitment to strengthening the party and preparing for the 2027 elections. It also urged supporters to remain united and focused on the party’s objectives in the state.
However, a separate faction of the Labour Party also held a governorship primary on the same day and announced Hon. Gaza Jonathan, a serving member of the House of Representatives, as its candidate.The faction additionally produced former Minister of Information and Culture, Labaran Maku, as its candidate for the Nasarawa North Senatorial District, along with candidates for other elective positions.
The emergence of parallel candidates highlights the ongoing leadership dispute within the party, with both groups claiming legitimacy and control of the party structure in Nasarawa State.
As of the time of reporting, the national leadership of the Labour Party and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had not issued any official clarification regarding the competing primaries.
Despite the internal divisions, both factions expressed confidence in the party’s chances in the 2027 elections and pledged to continue mobilising support across the state.
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