By Ejike Agbata

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Senator representing Anambra Central, Uche Ekwunife, on Monday hosted the Head of Political Section of the British High Commission, Lucy Green, and her team during a courtesy visit to her office in Abuja.

The high-level engagement focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, as well as addressing key national and global issues including governance, economic reforms, security, and women’s participation in politics.
Speaking during the meeting, Ekwunife called for deeper collaboration between both countries, stressing the need for partnerships anchored on inclusive governance, sustained economic reforms, and joint efforts to tackle security challenges.

“Our bilateral relationship must continue to evolve in ways that deliver real impact for our people,” she said.
The former lawmaker also made a strong case for increased inclusion of women in politics, decrying the barriers many women face, including intimidation, harassment, financial exclusion, and reputational attacks.

She proposed that the international community consider imposing visa restrictions on individuals who deliberately malign or blackmail women for participating in politics.
Ekwunife further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to women’s inclusion through key appointments and for implementing bold economic reforms. She specifically highlighted the removal of fuel subsidy and other initiatives aimed at easing economic pressures and promoting growth.

According to her, while the reforms may take time to fully yield results, they are already improving resource availability, particularly at the grassroots level.
On national security, Ekwunife emphasized the need for collective responsibility, urging collaboration among government, security agencies, and citizens. She noted that communities play a critical role through credible intelligence gathering.

She also highlighted the economic and innovative potential of Nigeria’s South-East region, encouraging broader engagement across the country’s regions to better harness opportunities and promote unity in diversity.

Ekwunife reaffirmed her commitment to sustained dialogue and strategic collaboration with international partners, particularly the United Kingdom, in advancing democratic stability, inclusive governance, and sustainable development.

Plans by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have collapsed over disagreements on power-sharing.

Chairman of the Turaki-led PDP faction in the state, Sama’ila Burga, disclosed this on Saturday while addressing journalists in Bauchi.

Burga said negotiations between the governor’s camp and APC leaders ended in a deadlock after the ruling party reportedly rejected a proposed 60–40 formula for control of party structure in the state.

Despite the breakdown in talks, he noted that the governor and his supporters remain open to joining another political party, with fresh consultations ongoing from the ward to the state level.

According to him, the APC initiated the discussions through its national leadership, with the involvement of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, who visited Bauchi to persuade Mohammed.

However, talks stalled after the APC declined the proposed sharing arrangement, which Burga said had been used in similar defections elsewhere.

“You cannot expect a government bringing its full structure from ward to state level not to have significant control,” he said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a strong warning to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), cautioning that going ahead with its planned congress against a court order could cost the party dearly.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, speaking on Arise News, made it clear that defying the court could trigger serious consequences, including the nullification of election victories.

He warned that the party risks repeating the Zamfara political crisis, where candidates who won elections were later sacked by the courts for failing to follow due process.

“If they go ahead, what happened in Zamfara can happen again,” Amupitan cautioned.

He explained that even if ADC candidates win at the polls, the courts could overturn such victories, handing power to candidates who came second — a situation that has also played out in Plateau State.

“Disobeying court orders has consequences,” he stressed, noting that INEC is determined to avoid another legal and electoral crisis.

Despite the warning, ADC leadership, led by its National Chairman, David Mark, has insisted it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention.

ABUJA — The departure hall of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport remained lively with post-convention activity as delegates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) began to disperse following the party’s 8th National Convention.

Amid the movement of party officials and supporters, the Chairman of Udenu Local Government Area, Aka Eze Aka, spoke briefly with reporters moments before boarding his flight. In the structured exchange, he shared his reflections on the convention, the party’s leadership, and the political outlook ahead of 2027.

INTERVIEW

On the Convention Outcome

Question:
You have just concluded participation in the APC National Convention. What is your overall assessment?

Aka Eze Aka:
The convention was, in every sense, historic and well-organised. More importantly, it reflected a level of democratic maturity that goes beyond routine political gatherings. What stood out was the spirit of unity, consensus and mutual respect shaped the process. For me, that is the most significant takeaway.

On Internal Democracy and Party Structure

Question:
Observers say the emergence of the National Working Committee was seamless. Does this set a new benchmark?

Aka Eze Aka:
Yes, it does. The process demonstrated that internal democracy is strengthening. Leadership emergence was consultative and inclusive. Democracy is not only about voting; it is about trust. This exercise has reinforced that trust within the party and signals institutional stability.

On State Leadership and Coordination

Question:
How would you assess the role of your state delegation leader, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah?

Aka Eze Aka:
Governor Mbah’s leadership was strategic and unifying. From the ward congresses through to the convention, he ensured inclusivity and fairness. He listened, coordinated effectively, and built consensus. That is why Enugu delegates remained cohesive and confident throughout the process.

On Delegate Morale and Representation

Question:
There was visible excitement among Enugu delegates. What drove that?

Aka Eze Aka:
It was more than celebration—it was a sense of belonging. The process carried people along. The emergence of Ben Nwoye also gave our people a sense of representation and recognition. Naturally, that inspired confidence and optimism.

On National Leadership

Question:
How do you assess the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in relation to the party?

Aka Eze Aka:
President Tinubu is a seasoned democrat. His leadership is reform-driven and forward-looking. While reforms can be challenging, they are essential for long-term national development. Within the party, his leadership has ensured direction, order, and inclusivity, as reflected in the convention’s conduct.

On 2027 Political Outlook

Question:
What is your perspective on the party’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections?

Aka Eze Aka:
The party is well-positioned. This convention has strengthened the foundation. At the state level, governance performance is building public trust, and at the national level, there is clear direction. Structurally, from the grassroots to the national leadership, the system is solid. If this trajectory is sustained, 2027 looks promising.

On Regional Political Engagement

Question:
You also attended the South East Zonal Congress in Enugu. What was your experience?

Aka Eze Aka:
It was peaceful and well-coordinated. The event demonstrated organisational capacity and effective collaboration among stakeholders in the region. That level of cooperation is critical for political stability and progress.

On Grassroots Leadership

Question:
What does this convention mean to you as a grassroots leader?

Aka Eze Aka:
It is reassuring. It shows that grassroots voices remain relevant in the party’s decision-making process. My responsibility is to translate these outcomes into tangible benefits for the people at the local level. With the leadership structure now in place, I am optimistic about delivering more impact.

The Executive Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Caleb Onyema Ani, has congratulated Dr. Ben Nwoye on his emergence as Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the party’s National Convention held in Abuja.

Ani also felicitated other newly elected members of the APC National Executive Committee, describing their emergence as a reflection of confidence in experienced and strategic leadership within the party.

In a statement, the council chairman described Nwoye as a seasoned administrator and committed party stalwart, noting that his tenure as former APC Chairman in Enugu State positioned him for national recognition. He added that Nwoye’s election represents both a personal milestone and a moment of pride for Enugu State and the South-East.

Ani further commended Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for what he termed a pivotal role in promoting unity, political maturity, and collaboration that contributed to the outcome.

He described the governor as a visionary leader whose approach to governance encourages inclusiveness and strengthens the state’s relevance on the national stage.

“Governor Mbah’s leadership reflects bridge-building and a forward-looking vision. His support for credible leadership underscores a commitment to the broader progress of Enugu State,” Ani said.

While wishing the new APC national executives a successful tenure, Ani expressed confidence in their ability to strengthen internal democracy and contribute to national development.

He reaffirmed the readiness of Enugu South Local Government to support initiatives that promote peace, development, and good governance.

Enugu South LG Media

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has congratulated the National Working Committee (NWC) members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) elected at the party’s 8th National Convention held in Abuja, Friday.

Mbah hailed them as “round pegs in round holes,” saying their election reflected a deep confidence in their ability to steer the APC to greater heights and also to resounding victory in the 2027 general elections.

He said the National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Basiru; Deputy National Chairman (South), Dr. Ben Nwoye; Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, and the rest of the executives came with deep experience in party politics as well as unalloyed commitment to the nation, democracy and the party.

The governor also paid glowing tribute to President Bola Tinubu, noting that the peace, orderliness, conviviality and sense of brotherhood that characterized the national convention was yet another glittering demonstration of the President’s sterling leadership qualities, remarkable inclusive governance philosophy, and immense experience at political engineering

The governor added that through the conduct of a rancour-free convention, the APC had, once again, set an enviable benchmark for other political parties to emulate.

“Democracy is about the people, and we have demonstrated that tonight. The success of this convention shows that as a party, we are not only modeling good governance and implementing reforms that are repositioning our economy, we have also shown that the APC is a model in party politics and that we are one big family,” Governor Mbah said.

He pledged his total support to the new party leadership, urging every member of the party to rally round them to build on the gains of the successful congresses and national convention.

Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Germany, Femi Fani-Kayode, has strongly opposed the idea of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi ever becoming President of Nigeria, declaring “God forbid” without providing specific reasons.

In a recent interview with Nigeria Today News Network, Fani-Kayode stated: “I look at someone like Peter Obi… God forbid Peter Obi should be President of this country. I won’t go into why I said that, but God forbid.”

The former Minister of Aviation also urged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to abandon his presidential ambitions to allow others to contest.

“I have respect for our former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, but I also believe that it’s time for him to simply say ‘let others continue the work’,” he said.

Fani-Kayode dismissed the existence of any meaningful opposition in Nigeria, arguing it has effectively collapsed due to internal divisions and lack of direction.

He particularly criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it not as a serious opposition party but as “an association of people who are desperate for power” individuals he called “discredited” with “no hope in hell of moving this nation forward.”

He added: “The opposition has collapsed in Nigeria. There is no opposition because they don’t even know how to be in opposition. How can they keep the Government on its toes when they are busy bickering amongst themselves, fighting amongst themselves and they are fast asleep in bed snoring!”

Fani-Kayode contrasted the current opposition with the All Progressives Congress (APC) during its time in opposition, which he said was strong enough to defeat the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“Can you compare the APC that was in opposition to the jokers we have today that call themselves opposition?” he asked.

The comments have sparked reactions online, reflecting ongoing debates about Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

Aprokorepublic

Vice President Kashim Shettima has dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as an “empty bone” that lacks substance and urged Nigerians not to align with the opposition party.

Speaking on Wednesday at the Gusau Trade Fair Complex in Zamfara State, while addressing a large crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters during the reception of Governor Dauda Lawal into the ruling party, Shettima said the ADC has nothing meaningful to offer the country.

“Do you know that ADC? It has nothing to offer for you, therefore you shall not go there,” he told the gathering.

He likened the party to “an empty bone” that “neither has bone marrow nor flesh on it,” adding that it lacks the qualities needed to deliver for Nigerians.

The Vice President’s remarks came as he led a high-profile delegation of APC governors and leaders to formally welcome Governor Lawal and thousands of his supporters from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC fold.

The event drew a massive crowd and brought activities in the Zamfara State capital to a standstill.

Aprokorepublic

It was a moment of significance in Anambra State as Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo was officially sworn in for a second term in office alongside his deputy, Onyekachukwu Ibezim.

The ceremony, which drew dignitaries and political stakeholders from across party lines, witnessed the presence of the APC Deputy Governorship candidate in the last election and a prominent APC party leader in the state, Distinguished Sen. Uche Ekwunife.

Senator Ekwunife, who graced the occasion, also took to her official Facebook page to extend her goodwill message to the Governor, emphasizing unity, development, and collective progress for Anambra State.

In her words:

“I warmly congratulate His Excellency, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on his successful inauguration for a second term as Governor of Anambra State.

I am confident that this renewed mandate will usher in a smooth, impactful, and people-oriented administration. This second tenure offers a valuable opportunity to further improve the livelihoods of Ndi Anambra and accelerate infrastructural development across our dear state.

I call on Ndi Anambra to unite and rally behind the Governor in the interest of peace, progress, and sustainable development. Now that the elections are behind us, our collective focus must be on advancing the common good and building a stronger Anambra State.

I also pray that God grants Governor Soludo divine wisdom, guidance, and protection as he embarks on this new phase of leadership.”

Her presence and message reflect a call for post-election unity and a shared commitment toward the growth and stability of Anambra State.

See some of the pictures captured in event below