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  • Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang Joins APC, Receives Membership Card

    Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang Joins APC, Receives Membership Card

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, on Friday formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) after receiving his party membership card at an event held in Jos, the state capital.The APC membership card was presented to Governor Mutfwang by the State Chairman of the party, Hon. Rufus Bature, marking his official defection and alignment with the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.The event was attended by key APC stakeholders, including former Plateau State Governor and Senator, Simon Lalong; Senator Diket Plang; and House of Representatives member, Yusuf Gagdi, among other party leaders.

    Speaking after receiving his membership card, Governor Mutfwang pledged that Plateau State would deliver over one million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.“Let me say wholeheartedly that, having prayed and consulted widely, I have decided to accept the membership of the APC,” Mutfwang said. “I am excited because one of my long-held dreams is to see Plateau united, and today I am beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.”The governor reflected on the political divisions that have characterized the state over the years, noting that successive administrations struggled with deep-seated polarization.“

    In the days of former Governor Joshua Dariye, Plateau was highly polarized. When Governor Jonah Jang took over, the divisions remained sharp. When my brother Simon Lalong became governor, I never set foot in Government House,” he said. “When I took over, the divisions worsened, and I prayed silently that God would bring reconciliation.” Mutfwang described his defection as a turning point for Plateau politics, emphasizing reconciliation and unity across party and ethnic lines.“ Today, God has brought us together. We are laying the foundation for a new Plateau, where acrimony is reduced to the barest minimum,” he added. He further assured party leaders and supporters that his administration would work closely with the APC’s national leadership to ensure Plateau State remains relevant in national political discussions.“Together with the national leadership of our party, we will ensure that Plateau has a seat at the table where critical decisions are made,” Mutfwang said. “I also look forward to one of the most peaceful elections in the history of Plateau State in 2027.”

    Earlier, the APC State Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, described the governor’s defection as a historic moment for the party and the state.“Today’s event is very significant for the APC. As the Scriptures say in Ecclesiastes, there is a time for everything, and the time is now,” Bature said.He noted that Governor Mutfwang had fulfilled all constitutional requirements of the party and was therefore entitled to all privileges accorded to APC members.“ This is a moment that will be recalled in the political history of Plateau State for years to come,” Bature added.The development is expected to reshape Plateau State’s political landscape as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.—

  • Tinubu’s Policies Lay Foundation for Better Nigeria, Says Tumsah

    Tinubu’s Policies Lay Foundation for Better Nigeria, Says Tumsah

    From Abel Zwanke

    A political stakeholder in Yobe State, Barrister Kashim Musa Tumsah, MFR, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies are laying a strong foundation for a better, more inclusive Nigeria, urging Nigerians to sustain their support for the current administration beyond 2027.Tumsah made the statement on Monday during a stakeholders’ meeting with his supporters drawn from across political parties in Yobe State. The meeting focused on the political future of the state ahead of the completion of Governor Mai Mala Buni’s second term in office in 2027.According to him, the Tinubu administration has taken deliberate steps to restore public confidence in governance by strengthening democratic institutions, expanding civic participation, and initiating long-term economic and political reforms.

    He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership approach reflects a clear commitment to inclusive governance and national development, noting that early policy decisions have begun to reposition the country for sustainable growth.“This administration has given Nigerians a stronger voice in governance, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is clearly on the right direction toward building a better Nigeria,” Tumsah said. “What is required at this stage is collective support to consolidate the gains already made.” He stressed that citizens must look beyond short-term challenges and focus on the long-term benefits of the reforms being implemented, adding that meaningful transformation requires patience, consistency, and broad-based support.

    Speaking on the political direction of Yobe State, Tumsah called on political actors and residents to rise above partisan divisions and align with national policies that promote unity, stability, and sustainable development.“Yobe State has come of age politically. We must speak with one voice and align ourselves with a national direction that promises enduring dividends of democracy, especially for our people at the grassroots,” he stated.Tumsah, a development advocate, is widely recognised for his over three decades of involvement in community-based initiatives across Yobe State. His interventions span key areas such as education, access to clean water, rural electrification, and youth and women empowerment programmes.

    He explained that his decision to seek the governorship of Yobe State was driven by persistent calls from traditional rulers, community elders, women groups, and youth organisations who believe his development record should be scaled up through public office.“I did not initially set out to seek political office,” he said. “However, the overwhelming calls from the people to sustain and expand these development interventions compelled me to heed the call to serve.”

    Tumsah noted that institutionalising grassroots development through effective leadership would help address long-standing socio-economic challenges in the state and ensure more inclusive growth.Political observers say Tumsah’s growing influence and cross-party appeal are reshaping political conversations in Yobe State. They note that his emphasis on development, unity, and alignment with national reforms is gaining traction as the 2027 governorship election approaches.

    Analysts also point out that discussions around Tinubu’s policies and their impact at the state level are likely to shape political alignments in Yobe State in the coming years, as stakeholders position themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle.

  • NNPP convention, Kano NNPP Chairman, Nigerian politics, Rabiu Kwankwaso, 2027 elections

    NNPP convention, Kano NNPP Chairman, Nigerian politics, Rabiu Kwankwaso, 2027 elections

    By Jabiru Hassan

    The Kano State Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Dr. Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, has described the party’s recent conventions at ward, local government, state, and national levels as a strong symbol of improving democracy in Nigeria.Speaking in an interview shortly after the NNPP national convention held in Abuja on Saturday, Dungurawa said the orderly conduct of the exercises demonstrated the party’s commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and inclusive participation.

    According to him, the NNPP convention process reflects a political culture where members are given the opportunity to freely choose their leaders, thereby strengthening democratic values within the party and the country at large.“NNPP has once again shown that genuine democratic practice is achievable in Nigeria. From the ward level to the national convention, our processes were peaceful, inclusive, and credible,” Dungurawa said.He noted that the party’s approach to leadership selection sets it apart from other political parties and positions it as a viable platform capable of delivering accountable governance to Nigerians.

    Dungurawa commended the NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, for what he described as visionary leadership and selfless commitment to democratic ideals. He credited Kwankwaso’s guidance for ensuring that the party remains focused on people-oriented politics.“Our leader, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, has continued to provide direction that prioritizes the welfare of Nigerians without bias. His leadership philosophy is anchored on development, fairness, and policies that improve livelihoods across all segments of society,” he said.The Kano NNPP chairman added that the party’s growing acceptance across the country is rooted in its consistent promotion of democratic norms and development-driven governance.Commenting on governance in Kano State, Dungurawa expressed confidence in the performance of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, stating that the NNPP-led administration is making visible progress in both urban and rural areas.

    He said the state government’s policies and projects across key sectors, including education, infrastructure, and social services, are gradually transforming Kano into a model of good governance.“We believe that His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, is making a positive impact. From what we can see on the ground, Kano State is undergoing rapid transformation, and the benefits of good governance are reaching the people,” Dungurawa stated.He further stressed that the NNPP remains committed to consolidating its structures nationwide, using internal democracy as a foundation for electoral success.In his concluding remarks, Dungurawa thanked party supporters across the six geopolitical zones for their loyalty and commitment to the NNPP’s vision. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge stronger ahead of the 2027 general elections.“With the continued support of our members and the grace of God, NNPP will grow even stronger and be well-positioned to win future elections with a wide margin,” he said.

  • 2027 Elections: Gov Alia Denies Plan to Defect to ADC After Visit to Ayu

    2027 Elections: Gov Alia Denies Plan to Defect to ADC After Visit to Ayu

    By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

    Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has denied allegations that he plans to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The rumours surfaced following his recent courtesy visit to former PDP National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, at his Makurdi residence.In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, the report was described as “fabricated, malicious, and aimed at distracting the governor from his duties.” The statement clarified that Governor Alia’s visit to Dr. Ayu was purely a normal engagement consistent with his inclusive leadership approach.“Our attention has been drawn to a false report alleging that His Excellency is preparing to defect from the APC after a supposed secret meeting with Sen. Iyorchia Ayu,” the statement read. “Such visits are routine and should not be misinterpreted. Governor Alia maintains an open-door policy and reserves the right to consult elder statesmen across Benue State.”

    The statement further explained that Governor Alia has been actively reaching out to political leaders and respected figures in the state as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC. Some of these engagements, the CPS noted, have resulted in new influential figures joining the party, including 3rd Republic Senator Prof. David Iormem, Elder David Iorwashima Amo, and Ambassador Terhemen Tarzoor.Kula reaffirmed the governor’s unwavering commitment to building a united and dominant APC structure in Benue ahead of the 2027 elections. According to him, Governor Alia is prepared to engage more political stakeholders and attract additional supporters into the party as part of a broader consolidation strategy for both his administration and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He urged members of the public to disregard the rumour, describing it as a deliberate attempt to sow confusion and undermine the governor’s growing influence within the APC. “This concocted story is a distraction intended to mislead the presidency and derail the governor’s progress. The public is advised to ignore it entirely,” Kula added.Governor Alia, who has consistently emphasized collaboration and inclusion in his governance model, maintains that his focus remains on delivering development across Benue State. The statement reiterated that he has no intention of defecting and remains firmly committed to the APC’s vision and objectives.

  • North-Central APC Forum Urges Review of Yilwatda’s Appointment as National Chairman

    North-Central APC Forum Urges Review of Yilwatda’s Appointment as National Chairman

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has called on key party leaders in the region to engage with President Bola Tinubu and review the appointment of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda as the APC National Chairman. The Forum made the appeal on Wednesday, citing concerns over his performance and its potential impact on the zone’s political prospects.In a statement issued by its Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, the Forum urged the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, along with APC governors in Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, and Niger states, to meet with the Progressive Governors Forum and subsequently with President Tinubu. The group maintains that a review of Yilwatda’s appointment is essential for strengthening the party’s leadership structure in the North-Central region.The call marks the latest development in ongoing tensions between the Forum and some APC stakeholders in Plateau State regarding Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s rumored defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. While the Forum has openly encouraged Mutfwang to join the party, Plateau APC executives and several women’s groups have staged rallies rejecting the governor’s possible entry.The Forum alleged that Yilwatda, who hails from Plateau State and was the APC’s 2023 governorship candidate, is sponsoring protests and media campaigns to block Mutfwang’s defection due to his own interest in contesting the 2027 governorship election. According to the group, such actions undermine party unity and contradict the responsibilities of a national chairman.“

    We are calling on the SGF, the Progressive Governors Forum, and APC governors in the North-Central to urgently meet Mr. President to review Professor Yilwatda’s appointment due to his unsatisfactory performance,” the statement said. “We cannot allow the region to suffer future setbacks based on the performance of one individual.”The Forum criticized the national chairman for allegedly diverting his attention from party-building efforts to political battles within Plateau State. It argued that Yilwatda’s alleged opposition to Mutfwang’s entry into the party contradicts the APC constitution, which places membership decisions at the ward level.“It is not within the national chairman’s powers to prevent Governor Mutfwang from joining the APC. Instead of providing the leadership needed to strengthen the party, he is sponsoring protests to stop a development that could secure Plateau State for the APC,” the Forum added.Calling his conduct “partisan” and “self-serving,” the group said Yilwatda lacks the experience required to lead a ruling party at the national level. It urged the APC leadership to immediately reassess his position and appoint a more capable individual if necessary.

    The Forum also reiterated its earlier demand that Yilwatda step aside and focus on his 2027 governorship ambition rather than “leading the party into crisis.”In a separate development, the Forum congratulated Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma, on his appointment as Director-General for Party Outreach, Engagement, and Mobilisation. It said Uzodinma’s new role further underscores the need for effective leadership within the APC’s national structure.The Forum encouraged Uzodinma to use his new responsibilities to support the call for a review of the national chairman’s appointment. It also warned against the alleged payment of small sums to women in Plateau State to protest against Mutfwang’s defection, cautioning that such actions could expose them to security risks.“Activities like these may endanger the women and their families by making them targets of criminal elements who believe they received large sums of money,” the Forum warned.

  • NYA Appoints New State Chairmen for Southwest Ahead of 2027 Elections

    NYA Appoints New State Chairmen for Southwest Ahead of 2027 Elections

    By Jabiru Hassan

    The National Youth Alliance (NYA) has appointed six new State Chairmen to lead its chapters across the Southwest geopolitical zone as part of ongoing restructuring efforts ahead of the 2027 General Elections. The announcement was made by the National Vice President (South), Hon. Meshack Onyeche, who said the appointments aim to strengthen the NYA’s presence and enhance youth political participation in the region.According to Hon. Onyeche, the newly selected leaders were chosen based on merit, credibility, and their proven commitment to the values of the NYA. He noted that the appointments align with the organisation’s broader mission to build strong grassroots structures capable of mobilizing young Nigerians toward meaningful political involvement.The newly appointed NYA State Chairmen are: Adeniyi Ojo Adeniran – Oyo State

    Olatunde Adeola Elizabeth – Ogun State

    Hon. Ilesanmi Joel – Ekiti State

    Olasunkanmi Osoaro – Lagos State

    Abass Gazali Alade – Osun State

    Lamidi Ismail Oyewale – Ondo State

    Hon. Onyeche explained that each appointee underwent a rigorous screening and selection process to ensure they possess the leadership qualities required to drive the organisation’s agenda at the state level. He added that their mandate includes mobilizing young people, strengthening state structures, and fostering unity within the movement.

    He further urged the new chairmen to begin immediate grassroots engagement and work collaboratively with their respective state chapters to prepare for increased political participation ahead of the 2027 polls. “We expect them to champion the collective vision of building a new Nigeria driven by the energy and innovation of its youth,” he said.The National Youth Alliance reaffirmed its commitment to empowering capable young leaders and promoting national unity. The organisation emphasized that the active involvement of Nigerian youths remains vital to the country’s political and socio-economic development.

  • VP Shettima Welcomes Former Kogi Governor Wada, SDP’s Abenemi, Others Into APC

    VP Shettima Welcomes Former Kogi Governor Wada, SDP’s Abenemi, Others Into APC

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday formally received former Kogi State Governor, Capt. Idris Ichala Wada, into the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The event, held in Lokoja, also welcomed Hon. Samuel Abenemi, the deputy governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the last election, along with several other notable opposition members across the state.

    During the brief but colourful ceremony, the decampees, led by Capt. Wada, were each presented with the APC flag in acknowledgment of their entry into the ruling party.

    Speaking on behalf of the new entrants, Wada described his move as a deliberate step toward joining what he called “the progressive family.” He attributed his defection to the party’s ideological direction and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.

    “There are many reasons why I joined the APC. First, the party is progressive. Secondly, President Tinubu has a very good vision for the country,” Wada said.
    He further praised the removal of fuel subsidy, claiming it led to improvements in food prices, naira appreciation, and overall economic stability. “The dividends of democracy under Mr President are numerous. With these reasons, we are taking the bold step to join the APC today. We must unite with Mr President to ensure his victory in 2027,” he added.

    Vice President Shettima, while receiving the new members, expressed satisfaction with the growing strength of the APC in Kogi State. He described the defection as a significant milestone for the party both in the state and nationally.

    “It gladdens my heart to see this day. Good governance is at play in Kogi State. This marks a new chapter in the life of APC in Kogi and Nigeria,” he said.
    Shettima hailed Wada as an elder statesman whose decision to join APC reflects confidence in the party’s governance. “What is happening in APC is a coalition of who is who in Kogi and Nigeria. You have joined a family that brings peace and progress, and you will not regret joining the progressives,” he added.

    Shettima assured the decampees that he would relay the development to President Tinubu. “The message from the Confluence State today is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in 2027 is total,” he said. He also commended the people of Kogi State “for speaking with one voice.”

    Earlier in his welcome remarks, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello, Chairman of the APC in Kogi State, told the Vice President that President Tinubu’s re-election campaign would face no resistance in the state. “Mr President does not need to come to Kogi for any political campaign. His victory here is already guaranteed,” Bello said.

    The defection marks one of the most notable political shifts ahead of the 2027 elections, further consolidating the APC’s influence in Kogi State.

  • APC Youth Vanguard Pass Vote of Confidence on National Chairman Prof. Nentawe

    APC Youth Vanguard Pass Vote of Confidence on National Chairman Prof. Nentawe

    By Israel Adamu, Jos

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Vanguard on Tuesday passed a vote of confidence on the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, describing him as a visionary leader steering the party toward greater unity and strength.

    Speaking at a press conference in Jos, the group’s leader, Mr. Markus Maikor, dismissed as “laughable and politically motivated” a two-week ultimatum reportedly issued by a group sponsored by the opposition, calling for Prof. Yilwatda’s resignation.

    Maikor urged the APC Chairman not to be distracted by what he termed “baseless propaganda,” emphasizing that Prof. Yilwatda’s leadership has brought renewed stability and progress to the ruling party.

    “We particularly condemn the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State for engaging in a deliberate campaign of falsehood and calumny against Prof. Nentawe,” Maikor said. “Since assuming office, our National Chairman has been consulting widely with stakeholders across the country to strengthen the APC and position it for future victories.”

    The group praised Prof. Yilwatda’s strategic leadership, organizational acumen, and focus on grassroots mobilization, noting that his efforts have united party members and expanded APC’s political base nationwide.

    “The opposition is simply uncomfortable with his achievements and has now resorted to cheap blackmail, which is dead on arrival,” the statement added.

    The Youth Vanguard reaffirmed its support for Prof. Yilwatda and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that under their leadership, the APC would secure a decisive victory in the 2027 presidential election and win additional states.

    The group also applauded the APC Chairman’s role in attracting key political figures into the party, citing the recent defections of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State from the opposition.

    “Under Prof. Nentawe’s leadership, APC now enjoys overwhelming representation in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. His results speak for themselves,” Maikor stated.

    The Youth Vanguard concluded by commending President Tinubu for his ongoing reforms aimed at reviving Nigeria’s economy, pledging continued loyalty and mobilization support for the administration and the party’s national leadership.

  • Defection: Kaduna Now 95% APC — Governor Uba Sani Declares at Mega Rally

    Defection: Kaduna Now 95% APC — Governor Uba Sani Declares at Mega Rally

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has declared that the state is now “95 percent All Progressives Congress (APC)” following a major wave of defections that saw four State Assembly lawmakers,five House of Representatives members, and thousands of their supporters join the ruling party at a mega rally on Saturday.

    The rally, held at the Murtala Square, Kaduna, was attended by APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Minister of Environment, Alhaji Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and Chairman of the North West Development Commission, Alhaji Lawal Samaila Yakawada, alongside thousands of party supporters.

    According to a statement on Sunday by the Governor’s media aide, Ibraheem Musa, the defections have strengthened APC’s dominance in Kaduna politics. The ruling party now boasts 13 out of 16 House of Representatives members and 26 out of 34 State Assembly members, leaving the PDP with a dwindling minority.

    Speaking at the rally, Governor Sani assured the new entrants of equal treatment within the party, emphasizing APC’s unity and inclusiveness.

    “Those who joined our party today and those who have been with us since inception will enjoy the same privileges,” he said. “What matters is your ability to connect with the grassroots and carry your constituents along.”

    Governor Sani noted that the APC had only four federal lawmakers in 2023 but now holds a commanding 14 seats in the lower legislative chamber.

    “Today in Kaduna, we don’t have any opposition. I told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that we were aiming for 80 percent of the votes in 2027, but now I can boldly say Kaduna will deliver 95 percent of the total votes to APC,” the Governor declared.

    He attributed the surge in membership to his administration’s commitment to justice, fairness, and inclusivity, noting that Kaduna has not witnessed a single ethno-religious crisis since his assumption of office.

    “Our diversity is our strength. Poverty does not respect religion or ethnicity, so we must work together as one family for the progress of our state,” Sani said.

    The Governor also highlighted his administration’s balanced development efforts across the state’s 23 local government areas, covering all three geopolitical zones.

    In his remarks, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda described the APC as “the promised land” for Nigerian politicians and praised both President Tinubu and Governor Sani for their visionary leadership.

    “President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani deserve second terms based on their achievements,” Yilwatda stated.

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said the APC had achieved an unprecedented political dominance in Kaduna, remarking that, “Whether in Zone 1, Zone 2, or Zone 3, APC is now the party to beat.”

    Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. Hussaini Jalo thanked Governor Sani and President Tinubu for their leadership, declaring Kaduna a “one-party state” and expressing confidence in the re-election of both leaders in 2027.

    Among the prominent defectors were Hon. Sadiq Ango (Sabon Gari), Hon. Abdulkarim Husseini Ahmad (Kaduna South), Hon. Aliyu Mustapha Abdullahi (Ikara/Kubau), and Hon. Hussaini Jalo (Igabi). Others included former Senator Danjuma Lah, Senator Suleiman Othman Hunkuyi, Senator Shehu Sani, former Governor Muktar Ramalan Yero, and Hon. Saidu Adamu, former PDP State Secretary.

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