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Tag: All Progressives Congress (APC)

  • Kwara South APC Chairmen Endorse Yahaya Seriki

    Kwara South APC Chairmen Endorse Yahaya Seriki

    Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the seven local government areas in Kwara South Senatorial District have endorsed Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki as the party’s preferred governorship candidate for the 2027 election in Kwara State.

    The endorsement was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday after a meeting of the party leaders in the district.

    The APC chairmen commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what they described as a strategic decision aimed at sustaining the developmental policies and achievements of the current administration.

    According to the statement, the governor’s leadership and performance over the years have earned him the credibility to influence the emergence of a successor capable of consolidating on his administration’s programmes.

    “We in Kwara South APC fully align with the decision of His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in supporting Ambassador Yahaya Seriki as the preferred governorship candidate of our great party ahead of the 2027 election,” the statement read.

    The party leaders described Seriki as a loyal party member with strong grassroots connections and the leadership capacity required to move the state forward.

    They added that his experience, competence, and political maturity make him well-positioned to continue the policies and projects of the present administration.

    The chairmen also pledged to mobilise party members, youths, women, and stakeholders across the district in support of Seriki during the APC primaries and the general election.

    “As party leaders at the grassroots, we consider it our responsibility to unite our members and work tirelessly for the success of the party and the emergence of Ambassador Yahaya Seriki as the next Governor of Kwara State,” the statement added.

  • NILDS DG Withdraws from Kwara Governorship Race

    NILDS DG Withdraws from Kwara Governorship Race

    Director General of the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, has withdrawn from the Kwara State governorship race ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

    Sulaiman announced his decision in a statement issued on Tuesday, citing extensive consultations and recent political developments.

    He said his decision to join the race was motivated by a desire to contribute to the development, unity, and progress of Kwara State rather than personal ambition.

    “I remain deeply humbled by the encouragement, prayers, goodwill, and overwhelming support shown to me by Kwarans across Kwara North, Kwara South, and Kwara Central,” he said.

    The former governorship aspirant noted that the decision to step down was difficult but necessary, stressing that leadership should be guided by wisdom, responsibility, and commitment to the collective interest.

    Sulaiman reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed continued support for President Bola Tinubu and the party’s leadership.

    “While I may no longer be participating in this contest, my belief in the future of Kwara State remains unwavering. I also reaffirm my loyalty and commitment to our great party, the APC, and to the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he stated.

    He pledged to work for the success of the APC in future elections and to continue supporting peace, unity, and development in Kwara State and across Nigeria.

    Appreciating his supporters, Sulaiman thanked them for their encouragement throughout his campaign, adding that their goodwill and support would remain valued.

    “This may mark the end of a political process, but not the end of our shared commitment to building a better Kwara State,” he added.

  • 2027: APC endorse BOB for Kwara Governor

    2027: APC endorse BOB for Kwara Governor

    A former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Benjamin Issa Ezekiel on Saturday joined other stakeholders from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to endorse the governorship ambition of Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa in the forthcoming 2027 general election.

    While the former Speaker represented Kwara North Senatorial District, a former Legal Adviser of APC in the state, Barrister Ladi Mustapha represented Kwara Central while a former deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Adetiba Raphael represented Kwara South senatorial district respectively.

    The press conference was organised by a coalition of party loyalists gathered that the APC stakeholders threw their weight behind the governorship ambition of Hon. Bolarinwa, describing him as the most qualified candidate in the race.

    The event featured notable figures including Barrister Ladi Mustapha, former member of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Honourable Benjamin Issa Ezekiel, Honourable Adetiba Raphael representing Kwara South.

    Speaking on the theme, “Why Hon. Bolarinwa stands above all other candidates in the gubernatorial race,” the stakeholders assured their decision followed extensive consultations and objective assessment across the three senatorial districts.

    The press statement, read by Barrister Ladi Mustapha, highlighted the aspirant’s proven integrity and commitment to service, noting that he is widely respected for his honesty, sincerity, and dedication to the welfare of the people.

    They also cited his extensive political and administrative experience spanning over two decades, having served in various capacities including councillor, local government chairman, and member of the House of Representatives.

    According to the group, Hon. Bolarinwa possesses strong intellectual depth, academic excellence, and a clear vision for socio-economic transformation, particularly in areas such as education, agriculture, commerce, and youth empowerment.

    Also speaking, Honourable Adetiba Raphael confirmed that Kwara State is at a critical juncture where citizens are yearning for inclusive governance and continuity in democratic dividends, stressing that the aspirant embodies a servant-leadership philosophy rooted in compassion, justice, and service.

    He said the aspirant does not believe in division and assured that no region would be marginalised under his leadership, adding that governance under him would promote unity, inclusion, and sustainable development.

    In his view, Honourable Issa Ezekiel emphasised the need for direct leadership, stating that a governor who will govern without intermediaries will deliver more effective results.

  • APC, ADC Intensify Moves to Woo PDP Leaders

    APC, ADC Intensify Moves to Woo PDP Leaders

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Wednesday stepped up efforts to attract influential figures from a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State.

    APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, held talks in Kano with former governor Ibrahim Shekarau and Senator Hayatu Gwarzo, urging Shekarau to consider rejoining the ruling party. The visit came shortly after Shekarau met with Abba Yusuf over moves to facilitate his possible return to the APC.

    During the meeting, Yilwatda emphasised the importance of northern political unity and highlighted federal infrastructure projects and appointments as evidence of the administration’s commitment to the region. He described Shekarau as a respected political figure whose experience would strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

    Responding, Shekarau acknowledged internal challenges within the PDP and said he would consult members of his political family before announcing his next move. He added that any decision would prioritise the interests of Kano State and its people.

    Meanwhile, in Abuja, factional ADC National Chairman David Mark hosted key PDP figures loyal to Makinde at his residence in the Apo District as part of ongoing consultations among opposition leaders.

    Those present included Tanimu Turaki, former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, former Niger State governor Babangida Aliyu, Jerry Gana, and Ini Ememobong. Also at the meeting were prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Kwankwaso, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal, former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, and ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi.

    Although details of the discussions were not disclosed, Makinde said the visit was in solidarity with the ADC leadership amid concerns about pressures facing opposition parties and fears of a possible drift toward a one-party system.

    A planned meeting between ADC leaders and Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi State, did not hold as scheduled, with no reason given for his absence.

    Other attendees at the Abuja meeting included Inna Ciroma, Tunde Ogbeha, Liyel Imoke, Ishaya Bamayi, and House of Representatives member Fred Agbedi, as consultations among opposition actors continue ahead of future political alignments.

  • Sokoto APC Accuses Tambuwal of Neglecting Home LGA

    Sokoto APC Accuses Tambuwal of Neglecting Home LGA

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State has accused former governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of neglecting his home constituency during his time in office. The allegation was made at an APC stakeholders’ meeting in Tambuwal, where party leaders criticised what they described as a lack of meaningful development in the area under his administration.

    Speaking at a meeting, the APC local government chairman, Isa Sadiq Achida, also faulted Tambuwal’s reported involvement in a political coalition, describing it as a reassembly of familiar political actors rather than a fresh movement. He urged residents, especially youths, to support continuity under the APC instead of aligning with what he called recycled political interests.

    The meeting also featured the formal reception of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including three former councillors. In separate remarks, Commissioner for Higher Education Prof. Ala announced the approval of three new secondary schools for Tambuwal Local Government Area, while the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Aminu Dikko, said several indigenes had secured political appointments under the current administration.

    Dikko dismissed speculation about any personal political ambition, saying he would abide by party decisions. Efforts to reach Tambuwal for comment were unsuccessful, while the PDP spokesperson, Hassan Sahabi Sanyinnawal, said the party would respond at an appropriate time.

  • Osun Govt Dismisses APC Vice Chairman’s Funding Claims

    Osun Govt Dismisses APC Vice Chairman’s Funding Claims

    The Osun State Government has rejected calls by a group claiming to be local government vice chairmen elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to account for council allocations spanning more than a year.

    The group, which calls itself the Forum of Local Government Vice Chairmen, alleged that the state government failed to transparently utilise funds released to councils between December 2023 and January 2025.

    In a statement circulated in Osogbo, the forum’s chairman, Victor Fatoki, claimed that local governments in the state received more than ₦200 billion during the period and argued that the inflow was not reflected in visible projects across several council areas.

    The group called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to provide a detailed breakdown of how the funds were spent, citing communities such as Atakunmosa East, Ila, Ifedayo, Boluwaduro and Obokun as lacking infrastructure commensurate with the alleged allocations.

    The state government, however, dismissed the claims and questioned the legitimacy of the group, saying it had no legal standing under Osun State law.

    Speaking through his deputy spokesperson, Oladele Bamiji, Governor Adeleke said the administration would not engage with what it described as an unlawful body, adding that there was no recognised forum of vice chairmen elected on the basis of political parties in the state.

    Bamiji warned that the activities of the group could undermine public order, while the governor also noted that the status of officials claiming to be vice chairmen remained the subject of ongoing court cases.

    The dispute comes amid a protracted legal battle between the Osun State Government and the APC over the control of local government councils and their finances, a conflict that has stalled full council administration since February 2025.

  • [PHOTOS] Ex-Kwara Gubernatorial Candidate Hakeem Lawal Joins APC

    [PHOTOS] Ex-Kwara Gubernatorial Candidate Hakeem Lawal Joins APC

    Former Kwara State gubernatorial candidate and Chairman of the Awliya Foundation, Hakeem Oladimeji Lawal, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

    Lawal announced his decision after a courtesy visit to the Kwara State APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, where he formally informed the party leadership of his intention to join the ruling party alongside members of his political family.

    Prince Fagbemi, who received Lawal on behalf of the APC National Chairman and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the move as a reunion and homecoming, assuring him of full acceptance within the party.

    Several party stakeholders were present at the meeting, including former Kwara State Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji AbdulAzeez Afolabi; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Prince Sulyman Sai Kayi; APC Chairman in Ilorin East Local Government, Hon. Habib Lawal; and the APC Chairman of Magaji Aare Ward I.

    After the meeting, Lawal proceeded to Magaji Aare Ward I, where he formally completed his APC registration.

    He was received by traditional rulers, including the Magaji Aare of Ilorin and the Baba Isale of Ilorin, who offered prayers and goodwill messages.

    Speaking after the registration, Lawal thanked party leaders and supporters for the warm reception and pledged to work for the growth of the APC and the development of Kwara State.

    Lawal is the Chairman of the Awliya Foundation, a faith-based and humanitarian organisation with operations across the state.

    SEE PHOTOS

  • NNPP Says Kwankwaso Betrayed by Kano Governor’s Defection

    NNPP Says Kwankwaso Betrayed by Kano Governor’s Defection

    The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has expressed disappointment over the decision of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as a betrayal of trust.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the NNPP’s National Spokesperson, Ladipo Johnson, said the defection deeply disappointed the party’s national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and undermined the confidence of Kano voters who overwhelmingly supported the NNPP in the 2023 governorship election.

    Johnson said the sense of betrayal extended beyond Kwankwaso, noting that residents of Kano State had voted massively for the NNPP after what they considered eight years of poor governance under the APC.

    “Of course, he feels betrayed, but this goes beyond Senator Kwankwaso. The people of Kano turned out in large numbers to entrust the NNPP with power through Kwankwaso’s leadership,” Johnson said.

    He recalled that the party contested the election without an established political structure in the state, yet secured victory through grassroots support.

    “We had no councillors and no local government chairmen, yet the people voted for the NNPP from the ground up. They stood by Abba Kabir Yusuf through the tribunal, the Court of Appeal, and up to the Supreme Court,” he added.

    Johnson argued that Yusuf’s defection, carried out without consulting the electorate, amounted to a disregard for the mandate freely given by the people.

    According to him, returning power to the same party that voters rejected after eight years, without seeking public consent, represents a fundamental breach of trust.

  • Atiku’s Son Backs Tinubu Over Economic Reforms

    Atiku’s Son Backs Tinubu Over Economic Reforms

    Abba Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, citing the administration’s business-friendly and innovative economic policies.

    He made the remarks during a solidarity visit to the City Boy Movement (CBM) leadership in Abuja on Monday evening, leading members of his group, formerly the Haske Atiku Organisation, now rebranded as the Haske Tinubu Organisation.

    Abba officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on January 15 in Yola North, Adamawa State, collecting his membership card and pledging support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

    According to Abba, the president’s economic initiatives, introduced since 2023, are reshaping Nigeria’s private sector landscape and attracting investments, which influenced his political realignment.

    “This administration has introduced policies that have every Nigerian in mind. If anyone says this government is not doing well, I will tell them they are lying,” Abba said. “I believe that if given another term, the government will do even more because it is focused.”

    He added that his extensive business experience has given him insight into economic governance, stating that Tinubu’s policies benefit both businesses and ordinary Nigerians.

    Abba also explained that his alignment with the APC and the City Boy Movement reflects his commitment to public service and his desire to represent Adamawa in the National Assembly.

    “My joining the APC and the City Boy Movement is based on my belief in this administration. I also intend to use this platform to serve the people of Adamawa at the National Assembly level,” he said.

    The Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Oluwatosin Shoga, reaffirmed Tinubu’s commitment to youth participation in governance, noting that CBM seeks to position young Nigerians for leadership roles and encourage greater political involvement.

    Abba and his delegation were received by Shoga and CBM’s National Coordinator, Favour Abayomi, as they discussed strategies to support youth engagement and political development under the Tinubu administration.

  • Kano’s Political History Fuels Debate on APC Alignment

    Kano’s Political History Fuels Debate on APC Alignment

    Speculation over a possible realignment of Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked debate among political observers, with analysts cautioning against viewing Kano as a state permanently locked in opposition politics.

    Kano, Nigeria’s most electorally significant state in the North-West, has historically demonstrated a pragmatic voting pattern shaped more by local political ownership and strategic relevance than rigid ideological loyalty. Analysts argue that the state’s electoral behaviour reflects a preference for platforms that align with its internal political structures and development priorities.

    While critics often cite Kano’s past support for opposition movements such as NEPU and the PRP as evidence of an enduring anti-establishment stance, political historians note that those platforms were rooted in local populist movements rather than opposition to the federal centre per se.

    Recent electoral history further complicates claims that Kano is inherently opposed to the ruling party. In the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections, the state delivered decisive victories to the APC, including over 1.4 million votes for President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019, representing more than 77 per cent of the total votes cast.

    The 2023 elections, which saw the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) win in Kano, are also viewed by analysts as a vote for the Kwankwasiyya political movement rather than a rejection of federal power. Observers say the outcome reflected strong grassroots mobilisation and a sense of local political ownership.

    Political analysts note that Kano’s history of shifting alignments—from NEPU and PRP to PDP, APC and NNPP—demonstrates adaptability rather than ideological opposition, underscoring the state’s reputation as a politically sophisticated electorate.

    Supporters of a possible APC alignment argue that closer ties with the federal government could enhance access to infrastructure projects, security cooperation and economic opportunities, particularly as neighbouring North-West states have benefited from sustained federal engagement.

    However, analysts caution that any realignment carries political risk and would depend on tangible governance outcomes, legislative backing and visible federal dividends. They warn that Kano’s electorate is likely to judge any shift based on performance rather than party label.

    As debate continues, observers agree that Kano’s political choices are driven less by opposition identity and more by strategic negotiation aimed at securing relevance, influence and development within Nigeria’s federal structure.