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2027 showdown: Wike-Makinde rift threatens high-stakes PDP convention

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There are strong indications that the November national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State, may be derailed following a threat by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt the event.

Wike’s opposition to the convention is believed to be the result of his rift with his erstwhile ally, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and other unresolved issues in the party.

Ahead of the elective convention slated for November 16, the PDP has, however, issued a stern warning to the minister over his moves against the party’s plans.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, in an interview with selected journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, cautioned that decisive action under the party’s constitution would be taken against him should he continue to undermine the collective interests of the party.

PDP National Executive Committee members, including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former National Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, accused Wike of overstepping his bounds, vowing to resist his moves.

They stressed that the party was undergoing a rebuilding process and would strengthen its structure through the Ibadan convention, insisting that no individual could obstruct internal party activities, particularly with the Independent National Electoral Commission already involved.

The PDP only just emerged from months of internal crisis that saw the defection of key figures, including its 2019 and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate and former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, and other prominent leaders to the APC and the newly formed African Democratic Congress.

In a bid to restructure and reposition itself, the party, during its 101st NEC meeting on July 24, resolved to convene a National Elective Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, where 19 new members will be elected into the National Working Committee.

Dissatisfied with the South-South Caretaker Committee constituted by the PDP NWC and the retention of Ali Odefa as National Vice Chairman (South East), Wike vowed that his camp would resist the party’s decision.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TV programme, ‘Politics Today,’ on Tuesday night, the former Rivers State governor cautioned that the party’s crisis might appear resolved for now, fresh crisis could erupt if the PDP refused to acknowledge the zonal congress that elected Dan Orbih as National Vice Chairman, South-South.

He said, “Well, it is over for now. There are a few things remaining and I have told them that they must do it. Our congress was held in Calabar, and there’s nothing anybody can tell us. If they want to have another round of crisis, so be it. In that congress, Chief Dan Orbih emerged as the National Vice Chairman. They never wanted the congress to hold but congress was held.

“The so-called acting national chairman of the party wrote a letter to INEC after congress was held that the congress has been postponed. There is no two ways about it. The National Vice Chairman of PDP South-South is Chief Dan Orbih. If they don’t agree, that’s another round of crisis,” he threatened.

Wike also argued that the party must deal with its South-East zonal chairman, Ali Odefa, who had been sacked from the party by an order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

“The south-east vice chairman, Ali Odefa, is no longer a member of the party. These are the things I tell people. What I don’t like is impunity. And for someone like me, we will not condone it. I will not allow it. We will fight it except they correct it.’’

Wike added that the national convention being put together by the party might end up in crisis if the anomalies in the PDP were not corrected.

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“They said that they are going for their convention in November. I am not part of it until they have corrected it. Let us wait, there is still time for them to resolve it. Before you talk about the convention, resolve the matter. If the matter is not resolved, there will be a crisis.”

He dismissed reports suggesting that a parallel convention was being plotted, insisting that no formal decision had been taken by the party’s NEC.

“I am not aware that any convention would be held in Ibadan. As a NEC member, nobody has informed me, and no such decision has been voted on by NEC. If a few people gather to make pronouncements, that cannot pass for NEC,” Wike said.

He pledged that his group would continue to fight against injustice within the PDP.

The FCT Minister stated, “I am not aware of any convention. If notice of a meeting is not given to members of the NEC, we have the right to challenge it, and nobody can deny me that right.”

When questioned about whether he would take the matter to court, Wike responded, “Our group is meeting tomorrow, and obviously, I don’t think we will allow injustice to prevail. I can assure you that we will not allow it. Nobody serves the interests of the PDP more than I do. None of them.”

Our correspondents in Abuja reported that former governors Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, and other allies of Wike were spotted together on Tuesday.

Although the Wike group’s meeting had not yet been held as of press time, sources close to the minister indicated that it would take place soon, and their resolution would be announced publicly.

A source in the minister’s camp, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment on the issue, told The PUNCH that Wike’s group was prepared to fight till the end.

He stated, “We will meet later today (Wednesday). What I can assure you is that Wike and some of us will fight to the end. The injustice in the South-South and South-East will not stand.

“If the party is not ready to correct this, we will do everything legally possible to address it. But if they want the convention to hold, they must act; otherwise, they will be surprised.”

Reacting, Ologunagba, who countered Wike, said all NEC members were duly informed, and insisted that the National Elective Convention would hold as scheduled.

He stated, “Our NEC and other meetings have been convened properly. We follow the due process. INEC has been duly informed, as expected, of the meetings of the NEC relating to those issues. And in any event, I do not intend to join issues with anybody on this matter.

“The PDP constitution is there, we follow through the constitution. Our preparation is going on. The NEC, which is the second-highest decision-making body of this party, has fixed the venue for the national convention NEC selected the venue, and the venue is Ibadan, Oyo State, on the 15th and 16th of November 2025.

“That national convention will hold on the 15th and 16th of November 2025 in Ibadan, Oyo State. Like I referenced earlier, the train moving towards the national convention has moved, and it’s arriving at its destination because right now all arrangements and all committees are working seamlessly towards a successful national convention at Ibadan.

“In any event, we have documents showing that every relevant person, including Minister Wike, was referenced, and evidence showed that he actually received a letter duly acknowledged and signed for from his office. If there are challenges within his office, we cannot be held accountable for that. In addition to that personalised letter, there was a publication in the national dailies. So, there’s adequate notice: members have approved it, NEC approved it, secretaries approved it, all organs have approved it, and we’re fine, we’re going, we’re coasting on to the national convention in Ibadan.”

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In response to a question on how the PDP would handle Wike and his group’s decision to oppose the party’s plan, Ologunagba said that the party would take “necessary steps.”

The PDP Publicity secretary added, “Well, again, I do know that this party has done everything that is within the law, following the constitution, and we will continue to follow the constitution. If there are actions inconsistent with that constitution, the necessary actions will kick in. We’ve said that before, and we mean every word we have said as a party.

“Look, a party is a voluntary thing;  there’s free entry and free exit. When you choose to leave, you can leave, but it will be irreconcilable for you, or any member, to stay within a party that has rules and not follow those rules. So, for us, we are not joining issues with anybody. We are not going to be raising issues with anybody. We are focused on our process to have a seamless national convention, and we will do that because this is the hope of democracy in this country.

“We are focused, laser-focused, on what to do in the interest of democracy, in the interest of our party. But we have said it again, and we’ll say it again: there will be zero tolerance for disloyalty in our great party. PDP is a party of process, a party of rule and law. There are established ways of taking action and seeking redress that are consistent with the constitution, we will insist on that constitutional provision and do what is necessary and appropriate.”

Also, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Osadolor, warned Wike’s group, reminding them that the Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that internal party matters are non-justiciable.

He stated, “First of all, we are all aware that the convention has not been held. We are also aware that NEC held, and INEC participated in the last NEC, where resolutions on the convention that is going to hold in Ibadan on November 15 and 16 were taken, and they were duly notified.

“Again, this issue of going to court, like they are threatening, I wonder what has informed all of that. But again, I am aware, everybody’s aware, the Supreme Court made a pronouncement that internal dealings and affairs of political parties are not justiciable. It was a landmark pronouncement during the case of Anyanwu versus the Southeast Leaders, and the LP case versus Abure. And all of these two judgments came in the earlier part and the middle part of this year.

“I wonder which court will now entertain the briefs on issues that border on the internal affairs of political parties, having heard from the Apex Court. Again, I think the FCT Minister is overreaching himself by wanting to put himself first and above the collective interests of the political party he claims to belong to.

“And, therefore, I will urge him to take a second thought and not put himself on the wrong side of history. Because the PDP is rebuilding currently, and efforts so far have shown that Nigerians are appreciating the rebuilding that is currently going on within the party.”

Osadolor called on all party members to support the PDP’s rebuilding efforts, stressing that no single individual can prevent the party from carrying out its plans.

The NEC member stated, “Therefore, any party member should not be seen to be derailing the progress that the party has made post the defections of some adventurous governors and senators.

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“So, I want to also use this medium to tell you, Nigerians, the PDP will remain committed to its programs, and it remains undeterred in having a national convention that will usher in the next set of national committee members to pilot the affairs of the party.

“No matter who is going to court or who is not going to court, the programs of the party are set, and nothing will go against it.”

Another NEC member, Olafeso, on his part, vowed that Wike’s attempts to undermine the PDP would be resisted.

He stated, “In the final analysis, it’s obvious that Wike plans to destroy our party, and nobody will allow that for him. He’s heading for the final battle, and we’re ready for him. As far as we are concerned, we followed all the due processes to come this far.

“And he, and any other person on this planet, cannot stop us. Sometimes the arrogance of power will make them look as if everything is possible. The lawlessness that he’s exhibiting is quite unfortunate because the truth is that we are guided by a constitution.

“And that just stipulates how to move forward. We have to manage ourselves. We have followed the constitution all through. We are waiting for them to go to court. We’ll meet them there.”

Also, a former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, has described the threat of Wike to stop the party’s convention slated for Ibadan in November as a mere noise.

The PDP chieftain said the decision of the NEC of the party is superior to the personal craving of any individual, no matter how powerful.

He said, “No individual owns this party (PDP). NEC decided that there will be a national convention, and it will be held in Ibadan. Any individual can make his noise. PDP is not like the All Progressives Congress, which is owned by one person. It is the decision of the NEC authority that is taking us to a national convention.

“I will advise my political son (Wike) to just follow the rules. Otherwise, if he goes beyond that, the party has its own laws. Wike cannot dictate to people like me and many other oldies who are still fully in PDP. I don’t know why he said that (threat to scuttle the Ibadan convention). I am not happy that he said that.

“The party will take appropriate action. We have a NEC meeting coming up on Monday. I will support the procedures and the rules as stated in our constitution. No individual can change the rules, no matter what. Ibadan is the venue of our convention, and Ibadan we will go.”

Attempts to reach the PDP National Secretary, Anyanwu, a member of Wike’s camp, for a reaction were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, Dayo Ogungbenro, stated that the party’s leaders would resolve the issues bedeviling the party ahead of the November convention.

Ogungbenro said, “Well, I think I read it (Wike’s threat) in the newspaper today (Wednesday), I just laughed! It’s a sheer political statement, nothing less, nothing more. Because he is somebody I respect so much, whom my Governor, Seyi Makinde, worked, and stood for and by extension, the PDP in the state.

“He (Wike) should know that we supported him wholeheartedly, but that’s politics for you. So, let’s wait and see. Everything is politics, and our leaders will resolve it, no matter what happens,” he stated.

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PDP: Makinde, Wike camps confident as Appeal Court rules today

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Ahead of today’s Appeal Court ruling on the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, factions aligned with the party’s governors and those loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have expressed confidence that the judgment would favour them, insisting that legal precedents and statutory provisions support their positions.

The National Publicity Secretary of the National Working Committee, led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and backed by Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Ini Ememobong, confirmed that the Court of Appeal scheduled the consolidated cases involving the PDP for judgment on Monday.

Similarly, the National Publicity Secretary of the caretaker committee led by Mohammed Abdulrahman (Acting National Chairman) and Samuel Anyanwu (Acting National Secretary) and backed by Wike, Jungudo Mohammed, confirmed that the leadership dispute within the PDP had been scheduled for judgment at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.

Both factions, in separate interviews with our correspondent, expressed confidence that the judgment would be in their favour.

Governors of the PDP had earlier endorsed the Ibadan convention, which produced Turaki and other members of the NWC on November 15 for a four-year tenure.

The governors also supervised the transition of leadership from former acting chairman, Umar Damagum, to Turaki before Damagum’s tenure expired on December 9.

Meanwhile, a faction loyal to the FCT Minister constituted a 13-member caretaker committee on December 8, appointing Abdulrahman as acting national chairman and Anyanwu as acting national secretary, among others, with a 60-day mandate.

Efforts by both the Wike-aligned group and the governors’ camp to convene meetings at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, on November 18, 2025, turned chaotic, leading to disorder and physical altercations.

Following the incident, the Nigeria Police Force sealed the secretariat, which has since remained closed.

Both factions subsequently sought recognition from the Independent National Electoral Commission, but the commission refused to acknowledge either group, resulting in prolonged legal battles.

One of the consolidated suits before the Appeal Court is suit FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025, which produced a ruling that halted the party’s convention until it fully complies with provisions of its constitution, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Electoral Act (Nigeria).

The case was instituted by three aggrieved members of the Peoples Democratic Party: Austin Nwachukwu (PDP Chairman, Imo State), Amah Abraham Nnanna (PDP Chairman, Abia State), and Turnah Alabh George (PDP Secretary, South-South).

Another significant suit was filed by former Governor Sule Lamido (Adamawa). In that matter, Justice Peter Lifu issued an order restraining INEC from supervising, monitoring, or recognising any PDP convention that excluded the plaintiff as a contestant.

Three other cases, including one originating from the Oyo State High Court, are also challenging the legality of the party’s November 15–16 convention.

Another suit concerns the closure of the PDP National Secretariat at Wadata Plaza, listed as FHC/ABJ/CS/2520/2025, which was filed against the Nigeria Police Force.

On February 12, the Court of Appeal of Nigeria heard all the consolidated cases relating to the PDP leadership dispute and last week informed the parties that judgment would be delivered today, Monday.

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The outcome of the cases currently before the Court of Appeal is pivotal and will determine the leadership of the party.

On their expectations regarding today’s judgment at the Court of Appeal, the Wike-aligned faction stated that precedents set by the Supreme Court of Nigeria support their position, expressing confidence that victory is assured.

The faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed, stated, “Yes, we are very optimistic in the sense that the provisions of the law, and the precedents already established by the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal, give us strong confidence that the judgment will be in our favour.

“You cannot violate the Electoral Act, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the constitution of the party in conducting a convention.

“Not only were these violated, but there was also disobedience to existing court judgments. You cannot do that and expect it to stand, because what they did amounted to building something on nothing. So we are quite optimistic.

“As regards the insinuation they have been relying on that it is an internal party affair and that the courts do not have jurisdiction over such matters, the Supreme Court judgment recently delivered in respect of the case involving the now elected chairman of Bwari Area Council under the APC has already settled that issue.

“In that judgment, the Supreme Court clearly stated that the issue of internal party affairs is not absolute. There are certain actions which, if taken, fall outside the purview of internal party affairs of a party.

“So, based on that judgment and the precedents we already know, we are quite optimistic that this judgment will be in our favour by the grace of God.”

When asked about their next course of action if the judgment goes against them, Mohammed expressed confidence that the outcome would favour them, adding that their focus would be on immediately organising a proper national convention for the PDP.

He stated, “I am not looking at the possibility of the judgment going against us. By the grace of God, it will not go against us.

“We are not approaching this matter from a pessimistic perspective. Rather, we are focused on what our next steps will be once the judgment is delivered, which includes preparations for the national convention. So we are not pessimistic about it for even a second.”

In his response, the Turaki-led NWC spokesman said the leadership had confidence in the judiciary, expressing optimism that the judgment would reinforce democracy and strengthen the multi-party system in Nigeria.

Ememobong stated, “Our party is also expected to be in court tomorrow as the Appeal Court rules on matters affecting the leadership of the party.

“Our optimism lies in the fact that we submitted ourselves to the jurisdiction of the courts and we believe in the judiciary in its complete sense.

“When you look at the case, you will see that the law, as it is, especially the position of the Supreme Court, supports our matter.

“So we are hopeful that justice, according to law, will be done. At the end of the day, democracy must survive. The multi-party system must survive because that is more important.

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“We are optimistic that the case before the court is meritorious and we are very hopeful that justice according to law will be done.”

When asked what their response would be if the judgment did not favour them, Ememobong stated that their next course of action would depend on the reasoning contained in the court’s decision.

He stated, “First, every judgment is based on reasoning. So you listen to the reasoning of the court. It is just like when the Supreme Court gave a judgment on the ‘unsure option.’

“Within that judgment, even the dissenting judgment laid the foundations upon which a political solution that was later arrived at is being implemented today.

“So you do not pre-empt the judgment. You listen to the reasoning of the court. Away from law school, it is the judge and the court that are called to interpret the law, because at the time some of these laws were made, certain situations being interpreted today were not in operation.

“So the court now becomes the institution that interprets the intention of the lawmakers. It is the reasoning of the law and the reasoning that grounds the judgment that we will listen to. Until you listen to that reasoning, you cannot honestly analyse or take a decision on the basis of a judgment.”

The PDP Governors Forum also expressed confidence in the judiciary and called on all party members to stay calm ahead of the judgment.

In a statement on Sunday, its Director General, Dr Emmanuel Agbo, reaffirmed that the party remained committed to offering Nigerians a strong, credible, and people-focused political alternative.

The statement read: “The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), under the chairmanship of Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State, on behalf of the forum, wilfully addresses the party members and faithful as Nigeria awaits the ruling of the Appeal Court tomorrow, Monday, March 9, 2026, on the leadership crisis within the PDP.

“We stand at a defining moment for our democracy. The judiciary, as the custodian of justice, carries the weight of ensuring fairness, impartiality, and the preservation of national stability.

“Whatever the decision may be, the PDP reaffirms its respect for the judicial process and its commitment to peace.

“We call on all party members and leaders to show maximum restraint, calm, and be law-abiding before, during, and after the judgment, as leadership will meet immediately to review the judgment and chart the necessary post-judgment line of action,” the statement read.

The party described the judiciary as an impartial institution.

“The judiciary has always remained the only impartial and people-oriented arm of government whose tireless defence of the constitution has ensured the stability of our democratic governance,” the statement added.

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It called on members with political aspirations to contest the 2027 general election to have faith in the party’s ability to provide the platform that would ensure their electoral victories.

“Notwithstanding the fact that INEC has already published the timetable for the general election, the party will ensure the protection and realisation of their political ambitions,” he said.

It added, “Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, the PDP remains resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a strong, credible, and people-centred alternative.

“No ruling can erase the will of Nigerians for a fair and competitive political system. We are prepared to participate fully in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected.

Doherty seeks speedy judgment

Earlier, a governorship aspirant of the PDP in Lagos State, Funso Doherty, urged the President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria to expedite judgment in a pending appeal concerning the leadership of the party.

In a letter dated March 5, 2026, addressed to the head of the appellate court in Abuja, Doherty said a swift determination of the appeal would provide clarity for party members and electoral stakeholders ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

According to him, the outcome of the appeals could significantly shape the party’s internal processes ahead of its primaries and ultimately influence the credibility of candidates presented to the electorate.

He warned that uncertainty over the party’s leadership structure might complicate preparations for primaries and raise legal questions about the legitimacy of candidates fielded for the elections.

“The pendency or outcome of these appeals will significantly affect not just the internal preparations and processes leading to the PDP’s party primaries and related electoral activities but also the validity and legitimacy of the ballot options that will be presented to the Nigerian public on election day,” Doherty wrote.

The Lagos politician added that the implications could extend beyond the party itself, potentially affecting the validity of electoral outcomes for various offices if the leadership dispute remains unresolved before key electoral milestones.

Doherty referenced the timetable released by INEC, which schedules the commencement of party primaries for April 23, 2026.

He argued that a ruling from the appellate court before that date would help guide the party, electoral authorities, and other stakeholders.

“In view of the time-sensitive nature of election engagements and the need for clarity, I most respectfully crave the indulgence of Your Lordship towards swift determination of the consolidated appeal,” he stated.

He added that an early judgment would provide “invaluable direction” to all parties involved, particularly the electoral commission, which is responsible for supervising party primaries and accepting candidate nominations.

Doherty, however, acknowledged the court’s constitutional independence and discretion in scheduling and delivering judgments, stressing that his request was made with “the utmost respect” for the judiciary.

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Rising opposition attacks spark concerns ahead of 2027 elections

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Fresh concerns have emerged over Nigeria’s political stability ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition parties and political stakeholders raise the alarm over a series of violent attacks on opposition leaders, party offices and political gatherings across the country.

Reports of violent incidents involving opposition leaders and their supporters have surfaced in several states in recent weeks, including Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Kogi, Edo and Rivers.

The African Democratic Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party, New Nigeria People’s Party and Labour Party have strongly condemned the incidents, alleging that the attacks formed part of a deliberate attempt by the ruling All Progressives Congress to intimidate opposition figures and weaken rival political parties before the next national polls.

However, the APC has dismissed the allegations, describing them as baseless and insisting that internal crises within opposition parties were responsible for most of the violent episodes being reported.

The developments, which come barely months into the early political realignments ahead of the next election cycle, have sparked fears that Nigeria’s political climate could become increasingly volatile long before the formal campaign season begins.

Opposition leaders, however, vowed that the alleged intimidation would not deter them from mobilising their members or preparing for the 2027 elections.

Opposition raises alarm

The National Publicity Secretaries of the ADC and PDP, Bolaji Abdullahi and Ini Ememobong, accused President Bola Tinubu and the APC of deliberately targeting opposition leaders and party structures in what they described as an orchestrated attempt to manipulate the political environment ahead of the next general election.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Abdullahi alleged that the attacks were not isolated but part of a broader strategy to intimidate opposition parties.

He stated, “I mean, it is part of an intimidation strategy. What they are trying to do is to manipulate the political field.

“They have repeatedly maintained that what the ruling party wants is to manipulate the political space so that only the incumbent President will be standing in the 2027 election.

“They have managed to draw in many governors. What they are now doing is intimidation.

“The violence you are seeing is meant to intimidate our members so that they will not even be able to attend meetings or organise themselves.

“In the case of Edo and Rivers, for instance, they attacked Rivers’ office because the former governor, Rotimi Amaechi, was there to conduct his registration.

“They targeted Edo because the party leaders were holding a meeting there. These actions are clearly part of an intimidation strategy, and they cannot even deny it.”

Abdullahi revealed that the party was compiling records of the attacks and planned to escalate the matter to international bodies.

He said, “We are going to report all these incidents. We are compiling and documenting every case of assault and the damages.

“We will write to the African Union Court of Human Rights and the ECOWAS Court of Justice. We will also petition major embassies and high commissions in Nigeria to inform them about how the ruling APC is deliberately promoting violence as a political strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Their plan is to weaken the resolve of our members and discourage them from participating. But, we are not going to surrender. We are not going to give up. We will continue to encourage our members.

“Our members will not be discouraged because they understand what is going on and what they are fighting for.

“Nigerians know that the current situation has brought the country to its knees, and it cannot continue this way for another four years.”

PDP blames ‘presidential body language’

Similarly, PDP spokesman Ememobong alleged that the President’s body language had emboldened security agencies and political actors to target opposition leaders.

According to him, remarks credited to the President celebrating the disarray within the opposition could be interpreted as encouragement for actions aimed at weakening rival parties.

Ememobong stated, “Well, the state agencies operate clearly under the instructions of the executive. And if a President says in front of the National Assembly that he is happy when he sees the opposition crumble, it would therefore suggest that one of the key appraisal issues for state agencies is to ensure that they can decimate leaders of the opposition, because the easiest way for the opposition to crumble is for their leaders to be persecuted and harassed.

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“And because it is ‘strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter.’ So if a President says that on the floor of the National Assembly, then it is clearly giving a signal that people’s promotion may depend on the unwarranted efforts of state agencies that provoke attacks and persecution of opposition leaders.

“It may not be direct, and it may not be expressed, but it is obviously implied. But we advise the President and the leaders of the agencies to know that the country is bigger than the President and his party.

“More importantly, the survival of democracy is hinged on the survival of the opposition. The government’s survival is more dependent on the survival of the opposition than on the administration of the government.

“It is the presence of a virile opposition that signals a healthy democracy.”

He said the PDP had begun documenting the incidents and would present the evidence to the appropriate institutions.

He continued, “So it is the presence of a virile opposition, a healthy opposition, that is the defining factor and the check that shows that democracy is functional in a society.

“The attempt may be to see how they can delay our members and make them lose focus from working towards ensuring that the ruling party is defeated in 2027. But it will not work.

“We are taking note of everything that is happening, and we shall give the public and other relevant institutions the record for appropriate action.

“We are reaching out to our members. We are communicating with them, sharing strategies, and developing counter-strategies to ensure that our members are safe and secure.

“We have also set up legal teams. Unfortunately, some occurrences have shaken people’s faith in the judiciary, but nonetheless, we believe in the judiciary, and we want people to continue to believe in it because we must not, at any point, resort to self-help.

“So we are setting our strategies, providing legal counsel and legal teams, and reaching out to our people.”

NNPP Blames APC

The National Publicity Secretary of the NNPP, Ladipo Johnson, also blamed the rising tensions on what he described as inflammatory rhetoric from the ruling party.

Johnson said, “This is telling us that the rhetoric of the party at the centre is very bad. It is obvious that their boys on the streets still feel, much as they do, that despite all the hounding and claims of having 30 governors, victory is not assured for them in 2027. So, it’s a sad thing.

“We have seen how they have been going about attacking the opposition, including the ADC, when they want to do registration in a place. Yet, we have not heard anybody from the government call them out.

“When the shooting happened against Peter Obi and others in Edo, did anyone in the government condemn it or say this is bad or this must stop? We haven’t heard anything.

“The plan is very simple. They don’t want people to come out to vote. They know that if people come out to vote and parties have time to do proper registration in accordance with the Electoral Act, it won’t be so certain for them.

“So you can imagine that with their governors and other things people feel belong to them, they are still afraid.”

LP urges restraint

Reacting to the growing tensions, the acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Nenadi Usman, urged political actors to exercise restraint in order to prevent further escalation of violence.

Speaking through her Senior Special Adviser on Media, Ken Asogwa, Usman warned that the pattern of attacks was troubling and could undermine the credibility of the 2027 elections.

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She said, “We are urging restraint in this, because as it is now, even supporters of the current FCT minister, who is in the opposition, were reportedly attacked yesterday (Saturday). So, you can understand that the whole thing is looking like it is multifaceted.

“The one that happened in Edo was the ADC members who were attacked. In Amaechi’s hometown in Ubima, it was the ADC that was attacked, too. But you can see that the attack on the current FCT minister’s supporters has added a new twist to the drama.

“So, I think politicians should restrain themselves, honestly, because we need to have Nigeria first before we even have elections to contest and positions to occupy.

“But with the way we are going, I’m just wondering if there will be a smooth atmosphere for us to have this election coming in 2027. It’s very worrisome, and it is time for the law enforcement agencies to rise to the occasion.”

She also questioned the slow pace of arrests despite videos showing armed individuals during some of the attacks.

Usman said, “The people who are doing this thing are not spirits. They are Nigerians. You saw some video clips that surfaced showing some of these people carrying guns and shooting guns here and there.

“So, if ordinary individuals who are unarmed could film some of these things, I’m wondering why the security agents are not rising up to the occasion.

“But it is heartwarming to see some changes. I read some days back that the DSS arrested a suspect in connection with the shooting in Edo. At least some of those things could serve as a deterrent.”

Oyo violence deepens concerns

Political tensions also flared in Oyo State, where the Social Democratic Party cautioned the PDP against turning the state into a battleground after violence marred the party’s local government congress in Ibadan on Saturday.

The congress, organised by a faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, reportedly ended in chaos after suspected political thugs disrupted proceedings and destroyed vehicles.

The PDP in the state has been battling internal divisions between supporters of Wike and those loyal to Governor Seyi Makinde.

Reacting to the incident, the Oyo State Chairman of the SDP, Michael Okunlade, urged political actors to avoid actions that could destabilise the state.

He said, “We learned about the violence during the PDP congress via radio and social media yesterday (Saturday).

“As the 2027 elections draw near, we appeal to all political parties within the state to concentrate their campaigns on substantive issues.

“Furthermore, we caution the PDP against turning the state into a battleground in the run-up to the 2027 elections. The party should coordinate its activities in the best interest of residents.

“This also constitutes a call to the state police command to caution major political figures against misusing their influence for personal advantage and inciting chaos.

“We implore law enforcement authorities to monitor the activities of all political entities diligently, given that the 2027 elections are imminent, less than 12 months away.”

Edo attack

One of the most alarming incidents occurred in Edo State, where the ADC state chairman, Ken Odion, said the party’s secretariat had been attacked twice within a short period.

According to him, the attackers destroyed property, injured supporters and vandalised vehicles.

He said, “The first attempt was attempted arson as there was an attempt to burn down the secretariat. They came with fuel, destroyed the party flag and other paraphernalia and some windows were shattered.

“The second attempt was made when we had an event at the secretariat, and all the party supporters were there. It was difficult for them to destroy the secretariat, but they destroyed the canopies and chairs that were used for the event.

“The disc jockey was not lucky as he was beaten and his equipment destroyed. In all, three people were injured.”

He added that the attackers later targeted the residence of the party’s national leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, where vehicles were damaged.

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Odion said, “The thugs then moved to the residence of our national leader, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, shortly after the attack on the secretariat.

“At Chief Oyegun’s house, four vehicles were shattered. No life was lost. They shot into the compound because they thought people were in those vehicles.”

Amaechi convoy attack

Political tensions were also reported in Rivers State, where gunmen reportedly attacked the ADC secretariat in Ubima, the hometown of former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi.

The building was allegedly set ablaze by gunmen who fired shots to scare residents before carrying out the attack.

An ally of Amaechi confirmed the incident and said the secretariat had been newly acquired by the party.

He said, “The secretariat was actually attacked and set ablaze by criminal elements in the community on Thursday night. It was the following day (Friday) that his (Amaechi’s) convoy was attacked around Omuanwa community, also in Ikwerre LGA, on his way to Ubima for party registration.”

The ally added that vigilante members had intercepted Amaechi’s convoy, raising questions about the motive behind the action.

IPAC warns

Meanwhile, the Inter-Party Advisory Council in Rivers State warned that political violence could escalate if security agencies failed to act decisively.

The Secretary of IPAC in the state, Benjamin Ogbogbula, called on the police to arrest those responsible for the attack.

He said, “This act of attacking political parties’ offices is uncalled for in a democratic setting. This ought not to happen.

“So the police should investigate the incident and apprehend those involved in that dastardly act and ensure they are brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.

“What they are doing is to see that opposition parties do not have a presence in the state as 2027 is coming. It is a heinous act, and the perpetrators must be identified and brought to book.”

APC denies involvement

The APC has rejected allegations linking it to the attacks.

The Edo State Publicity Secretary of the party, Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, insisted that the opposition should not blame the ruling party without evidence.

He said, “An arrest has been made already. The person arrested, does he not have an identity? Did the police not interrogate him? Did he say he is a member of the APC? Did he say the APC commissioned him to attack the ADC secretariat? If he did not confess to being a member of the APC, how can anyone ascribe his action to the APC?

“It is a criminal matter, and everyone must own up to their actions, and there is no vicarious liability in criminal law. If you commit an offence, you go in for it.”

Similarly, the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, in an earlier statement, dismissed accusations against the ruling party and blamed the incidents on internal conflicts within opposition parties.

He stated, “Accusing the APC even before any investigation is carried out by law enforcement is particularly senseless, and shows the ADC as a party that lacks focus and without regard for the due process of law.

“Make no mistake, violence of any kind in our political space is unacceptable and must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians.”

Political analysts say the spate of attacks reflects the growing tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, which many believe could become one of the most competitive political contests in Nigeria’s recent history.

While opposition parties accuse the ruling party of intimidation, the APC insists that its rivals are exploiting isolated incidents to score political points.

The incidents have, however, heightened concerns among stakeholders about the need for security agencies to ensure a peaceful political environment as preparations for the next election cycle gradually gather momentum.

Many observers warn that if the current trend continues unchecked, it could further inflame political tensions and undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

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2027: Declare your intentions, Makinde tells appointees eyeing elective offices

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has asked political appointees in his administration with aspirations for elective offices to openly declare their ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Makinde gave the directive on Thursday at the Oyo State Government-organised 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

In a statement released on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, the governor directed the aspirants to pursue their ambitions on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

Makinde said such aspirants could count on his support as long as their loyalty and commitment remained with the people and the development of the state.

He noted that the directive became necessary following claims that he had not given clearance to aspirants seeking political offices, especially those serving in his administration, despite the election timetable having been released by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

“I have read on social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat.

“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position should bring out their billboards. And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to the billboard, nothing will happen.”

The governor used the occasion to appreciate Muslim faithful in the state for their prayers, support, and cooperation with his administration, noting that these had contributed to the state’s development, progress, and growth.

Earlier in his lecture, the guest lecturer at the Iftar programme, Fadilat Onihantu, commended Makinde for his leadership qualities and dedication to his family, faith, and the people of the state.

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In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, Daud Akinola, thanked the governor for consistently organising the Iftar programme since the inception of his administration and for his continued support for the Muslim community in the state.

He also called for more prayers for the state and the country.

In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, appreciated Makinde and urged Muslims in the state to continue supporting the government.

The event was attended by a former governor of the state and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; former Deputy Governor, Hamid Gbadamosi; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mohammed Fadeyi; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Iyabo Yerima; member representing Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Dhikirulahi Olajide; and member representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency, Shina Oyedeji.

Also in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Musibau Babatunde; President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Olubunmi Oni; Deputy Chief of Staff, Kazeem Adeniyi; and the Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Bayo Lawal.

Others present included the Co-Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Wole Oyelese; Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Hashim Atere; Oyo State PDP Deputy Chairman, Wasiu Adeleke; Chairman of all Local Government Chairmen in the state, Sikiru Sanda; K.K. Oloso; Bayo Oyero; Muslim scholars, religious leaders, traditional rulers, members of the League of Imams and Alfas, royal fathers, service commanders, commissioners, and permanent secretaries.

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