Politics
2015 promises: Kukah slams Buhari says he’ll be leaving Nigeria in pains
In his Christmas message at St. Mary Catholic Church, Sokoto, titled, ‘Let us turn a new leaf,’ on Sunday, Kukah said Buhari would be leaving office in good health, noting, however, that Nigerians were in pain on account of his failure to fulfil his promises to fix the country.
Kukha, who had attacked Buhari several times on his policies and inability to tackle corruption, cited nepotism as a major factor that characterized his regime.
The priest, however, commended the President’s efforts in the area of infrastructure, where he acknowledged there has been a measurable improvement in the landscape, especially in the area of roads.
Speaking against the backdrop of Buhari’s several trips to a United Kingdom hospital for medical treatment, the cleric noted, ‘’I speak for myself and Nigerians when I say, we thank God that He mercifully restored you to good health.
‘’We know that you are healthier now than you were before. We can see it in the spring in your steps, the thousands of miles you have continued to cover as you travel abroad. May God give you more years of good health.
‘’However, I also wish that millions of our citizens had a chance to enjoy just a fraction of your own health by a measurable improvement in the quality of health care in our country.
‘’It is sad that despite your lofty promises, you are leaving us far more vulnerable than when you came, that the corruption we thought would be fought has become a leviathan and sadly, a consequence of a government marked by nepotism.
‘’In my Christmas message last year, I pointed out the fact that you had breached the Constitution by your failure to honour and adhere to the federal character provisions of our Constitution. The evidence is all before us all.’’
School children
The bishop recalled that the Buhari regime has similarly failed to rescue scores of school children held captive in the forests by insurgents and bandits, stating that Nigeria is bearing scars and deep sorrow.
Kukah further flayed the President over alleged nepotism in his choice of appointees whom he described as mediocres, adding that the nation has paid the price for entrusting power to characters who treated it as their family property.
“Nepotism is a cancer which has consumed us in the last few years. We have paid the price of nepotism entrusting power into the hands of mediocres who operate as a cult and see power purely as an extension of the family heirloom,’’ he lamented.
The bishop called for a change of strategy to confront ‘’those who sit on the throne of power in arrogance and are determined to reduce our country to a jungle,’’ stressing that Nigerians needed to stand up firm against their oppressors.
Noting that a caste system has emerged in the country, Kukah challenged the citizens to rally together ‘’to destroy those who have institutionalised a caste system in our societies because every life matters.’’
He stated, ‘’Although the responses to my messages suggest that, generally, Nigerians listen to our voices in the wilderness. However, the deliberate culture of pauperisation and destitution of our people continues. So, we need a change of strategy so that we can turn a new page.
‘’We need a new strategy to confront those who sit on the throne of power in arrogance and are determined to reduce our country to a jungle. We need a new strategy that separates men and women of honour from those who have chosen dishonour.
‘’We need a new strategy that provides a clearer moral guide for ordinary citizens who, based on the moral strength of culture and religion, are seeking to build a good society, even if with straws. We need to stand up and stand firm. We need new mechanisms for saying no to the violence of governance.’’
Advocating a collective action against the oppressive system holding sway in the country, the priest said, “A caste system has emerged in our country. It has consolidated its hold and blunted the cutting edge of all institutions.’’
Kukah, who is known for his vitriolic preachment against bad governance, expressed concern about the regression under the Buhari regime, insisting that the nation was worse off than it was before the President took office.
‘’We keep asking questions in seminars, conferences and committees as to why we are unable to progress, but nothing ever happens. Why has progress eluded us?
‘’Who would have imagined, after listening to the campaign speeches ahead of the 2015 elections, the new President’s inaugural speech, that we will be so worse off than we were? Yet, it could get even worse if we do not pause and pause very seriously,’’ he warned.
Recalling his 2021 Easter message in which he drew attention to the urgent need for Nigerians to reclaim their glory which was slipping away, Kukah lamented that the notion of patriotism was becoming alien as the country was falling to the pressures of ethno-religious nationalism, noting that “before our eyes, a dubious jihadist culture has held our nation to ransom with the government simply looking away.’’
Mounting debts
The Christian leader also responded to criticisms from the Presidency, arguing that they could not quarrel with the facts he expressed regarding the poverty in the country, security crisis, mounting debts, Nigeria’s declining global influence and the dying sports sector.
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He added, ‘’Who will quarrel with the fact that our glory has departed as a country? Where is our voice respected today even within the African continent which looks up to us for leadership? Unless we count lining up behind others for handshakes across Europe and America as achievements, we will be remiss not to worry about our declining global influence.
‘’Is being the poverty capital of the world and one of the most violent states in the world an achievement? And our suffocating internal and international debts? And you do not think our glory has departed?
‘’We failed to qualify for the World Cup, our Falcons lost their title, our seemingly invincible champions, Anthony Joshua, Kamuru Usman and Israel Adesanya have all lost their titles. Our citadels of learning lie prostrate. When will glory return to us?’’
Fixing the country, he stressed, required courage, honesty, truth, humility, trust and firm commitment, adding that lies and blackmail are no substitute.
He, therefore, appealed to all Nigerians who have been given custody of the public trust and commonwealth to rise up to the duties for which they have been so handsomely rewarded.
Ends
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against what it described as an attempt to undermine opposition parties through judicial interventions.
The party issued the warning following a Federal High Court judgment in Abuja that removed the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the ADC and invalidated the party’s nomination of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu as an attempt to weaken the opposition and deny Nigerians the opportunity to freely choose their leaders in the 2027 general elections.
The party also questioned the timing of the judgment, noting that it came barely 24 hours after its presidential campaign rally in Sokoto, which it claimed attracted hundreds of thousands of supporters.
According to the ADC, the development raised concerns that the judgment had been prepared earlier but was only delivered following the successful rally.
The party said the ruling could have far-reaching consequences beyond Atiku and David Mark, potentially affecting thousands of candidates seeking elective positions at the local, state and federal levels.
“Do these people understand what they are playing with? This is not about Atiku Abubakar or David Mark. It is about the democratic rights of Nigerians to freely choose their own leaders. It is about the rights of thousands of candidates to participate in a democratic process,” the statement said.
The ADC further argued that the judgment was legally indefensible, citing an earlier ruling by Justice Musa Liman of the same Federal High Court, delivered on July 2, 2026, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1637/2025.
According to the party, the earlier judgment affirmed the legitimacy of the David Mark-led National Working Committee and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise the leadership.
It maintained that a court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot review, vary or nullify the subsisting judgment of another court of equal jurisdiction.
The party, however, said it was awaiting a Certified True Copy of the latest judgment to establish its precise terms, scope and consequential orders.
The ADC accused the APC of attempting to use the courts to weaken political opposition, insisting that Nigerians would not remain silent if their democratic rights were threatened.
“We warn the APC: do not play with fires you cannot control. The peace and stability of Nigeria are bigger than the ambition of any president or political party,” the statement added.
The party also questioned why the APC would be concerned about political competition if it was confident in its performance and electoral popularity.
It called on the judiciary to resist attempts to use the courts to undermine democratic institutions and pave the way for dictatorship.
The ADC urged its members nationwide to remain calm and law-abiding while the party pursues all available legal avenues to challenge the judgment.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) has dismissed the judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which nullified the leadership of Senator David Mark and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and voided the nomination of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar as the party’s presidential candidate.
The Council described the judgment as an academic exercise that had been overtaken by events, insisting that it would challenge the ruling at the appropriate judicial platforms.
In a statement signed by its Director of Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, the ADC PCC maintained that the judgment had no practical effect and could not override an existing judgment delivered by a court of coordinate jurisdiction on the same subject matter.
It recalled that Justice Musa Liman of the same Federal High Court, Abuja, had earlier ruled on the circumstances surrounding the emergence of Mark and Aregbesola as National Chairman and National Secretary of the party.
According to the Council, Justice Liman had held that the transfer of leadership from Chief Ralph Nwosu to Senator Mark did not violate the provisions of the ADC constitution.
It further explained that the disputed July 2, 2025 meeting was a stakeholders’ meeting preceding the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of July 29, 2025, where Mark and Aregbesola emerged as National Chairman and National Secretary respectively, under the monitoring of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Council argued that the leadership question had already undergone judicial scrutiny and could not be overturned without due consideration of the principles governing judicial authority.
It therefore described the latest ruling as an exercise in futility, adding that its legal team was taking immediate steps to challenge the decision.
The ADC PCC also questioned the timing of the judgment, linking it to the party’s growing political momentum following what it described as a successful presidential campaign flag-off in Sokoto, in contrast to the reported failure of the APC campaign flag-off in Kaduna.
It accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to use political and institutional instruments to frustrate the opposition rather than confront it through democratic competition and the ballot box.
The Council also expressed concern over Justice Lifu’s involvement in another controversial judgment concerning the ADC, recalling that his earlier ruling declaring the party deregistered was subsequently set aside by the Court of Appeal.
It further alleged that there were concerns surrounding possible pressure and political interference in the proceedings, insisting that the independence and integrity of the judiciary must not be compromised by partisan interests.
The ADC PCC, however, reaffirmed its recognition of Senator Mark as the party’s National Chairman and Aregbesola as National Secretary.
It urged its candidates, members and supporters nationwide to remain calm and continue their political activities, assuring them that the party’s leadership was addressing the legal and political implications of the judgment.
The Council also disclosed that its legal team was taking steps to seek appropriate interim relief, including a stay of execution where legally applicable, before proceeding with an appeal.
It called on Nigerians not to be distracted by the development, but to remain committed to defending multiparty democracy, political pluralism and the constitutional right of citizens to freely elect their leaders.
The statement concluded that the ADC would remain focused on its political activities, declaring that its campaign for the 2027 general elections would continue despite the legal challenge.
A coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has announced plans to stage a one-million-man protest against the administration of Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, on November 9, 2026.
The coalition said the protest would hold simultaneously in Abakaliki, Abuja and Lagos, with 56 NGOs and 39 CSOs expected to participate.
Leader of the coalition, Dr Ibiam Oko Ibiam, disclosed this in a press release made available to journalists, explaining that the demonstration was aimed at drawing national and international attention to alleged human rights abuses, politically motivated killings, electoral violence and mismanagement of public funds in the state.
Ibiam called on Ebonyi residents, irrespective of their political affiliations, to join the protest, describing it as a collective effort to demand accountability and protect the interests of the people.
He questioned Governor Nwifuru’s commitment to the constitutional responsibilities of his office, particularly the protection of lives and property and the promotion of citizens’ welfare.
The activist expressed concern over the reported killing of one Ubochi Onwe at Mgbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, alleging that the victim’s mouth was mutilated after he reportedly offered prayers for an opposition political candidate.
He also cited other reported assassination incidents in Ezza South Local Government Area, describing the alleged violence as disturbing and calling for urgent intervention by security agencies.
On public expenditure, Ibiam accused the state government of misplaced priorities, questioning alleged spending on luxury vehicles for female political office holders, expensive champagne and cash distributions to political associates and official guests.
He argued that government spending on entertainment, hospitality and political largesse should not take precedence over critical sectors such as education, healthcare and other essential public services.
Citing figures covering January to September 2026, the coalition leader questioned alleged expenditure of ₦22.2 billion on entertainment, approximately ₦17 billion on cash donations to official guests and ₦30 billion on loan servicing.
He contrasted the figures with the reported allocation of about ₦9.3 billion to education and primary healthcare, demanding explanations from the state government over its spending priorities.
Ibiam also raised concerns over Ebonyi State’s borrowing profile, warning that rising debt obligations could put pressure on projected government revenue and undermine the state’s financial stability.
The coalition urged human rights advocates, labour unions, youth organisations and other stakeholders to mobilise for the demonstration.
According to the statement, the protest will take place in Abakaliki, at Louis Edet House in Abuja and around the American Embassy area in Lagos.
The coalition said its demands included accountability in governance, protection of human rights, an end to political violence and prudent management of public resources.
It also called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for participants and ensure that the planned demonstration remained peaceful and orderly.
The allegations and expenditure figures cited by the coalition had not been independently verified as of the time of filing this report. The state government’s response was also not contained in the statement.
A Federal High Court sitting in Enugu has nullified the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election for Enugu West Senatorial District, ruling that no valid primary was conducted and directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disregard Hon. Uche Eneh as the party’s candidate.
The judgment was delivered on Wednesday by Justice Segun-Bello in suit No. FHC/EN/C’S/153/2026, following a legal challenge instituted by Barr. Ugochi Ohajekwe, who is aligned with the Dr. Johnpaul Anih-led Enugu State Working Committee of the party.
The court held that the NDC National Working Committee (NWC), which is legally empowered to conduct the party’s primary under the Electoral Act, did not organise any primary election for the senatorial district on May 29, 2026.
Justice Segun-Bello consequently ruled that the primary purportedly conducted by the state working committee was invalid, stressing that the committee lacked the legal authority to organise the exercise.
The judge further declared that no valid primary election was conducted by the NDC for Enugu West Senatorial District.
The suit was filed by Ohajekwe through her counsel, Kelvin Eya, Esq., who argued that the party’s national leadership failed to conduct a valid primary election in Enugu State.
She maintained that the only exercise held was organised by the state chapter under the leadership of Dr. Johnpaul Anih and challenged the process through which Eneh emerged as the party’s senatorial candidate.
The court also nullified INEC’s publication of Eneh’s name and ordered the commission to disregard him as the NDC candidate for the district.
The judgment came days after another Federal High Court sitting in Abuja removed Hon. John Nwokeabia as the NDC candidate for Awgu/Aninri/Oji River Federal Constituency and declared Hon. Chijioke Okereke the duly elected candidate.
Reacting to the Enugu judgment, the NDC State Secretary, Dr. Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor, described the ruling as a victory for democracy.
Okafor accused the party’s National Working Committee of working against the presidential ambition of Mr. Peter Obi, alleging that its failure to conduct primaries in the state or initiate meaningful reconciliation had exposed its undemocratic approach.
He said the judgment had vindicated the position of the state leadership, adding that although the ruling might appear to be a setback for the party, it would strengthen internal democracy and discourage the violation of members’ rights.
According to him, the judiciary has once again demonstrated that no individual or group is above the law, stressing that political parties must respect fairness, transparency, equity and the rights of their members.
He described the judgment as a warning to party leaders against imposing candidates without following due process.
Okafor also warned that continued disregard for the Electoral Act and the legitimate aspirations of party members could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
The latest ruling adds to the legal disputes surrounding the NDC’s candidate-selection process in Enugu State, with the party’s national and state leaderships facing continuing disagreements over the conduct of its primaries.
Politics
‘The Lord Fights for the Righteous’ – Agbese Speaks on Quiet Project Delivery, Political Attacks and More
Honourable Ibrahim Sani Bsc
Hon. Philip Agbese, the member representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency and Labour Party leader in Benue State, has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering tangible results as the general elections approach.
While seeking re-election, the lawmaker insisted that his focus remains on the work rather than political distractions or personal glory.
Agbese said a responsible lawmaker must keep working without being drawn into the negative campaigns and underhand tactics of rivals.
The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives says he draws quiet strength from his faith and prefers to leave every battle in God’s hands.
“The best advert for the kind of massive projects we have executed come from the people, not self-glorification,” Agbese stated.
“I deliberately refused to blow my own trumpet all these three years. I am grateful that critical segments of the society have taken notice of our monumental development projects.”
He added, “A good lawmaker works day and night and is not bothered by political opponents. I believe in the scripture that says we should leave vengeance to God. As it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.’ The Lord fights for the righteous.
“From the onset, we made education a clear priority and by the grace of God, we are delivering. We have so far built seven schools across the constituency, all constructed to international standard and fitted with tiles for the children.
“The record is there. Among them is the first one-storey primary school in our federal constituency. Many of our projects have come under heavy attacks but thank God that in the end, light has prevailed.”
Beyond education, his interventions also include health and market facilities, ICT training and empowerment for the youths, a befitting royal home for a monarch, solar electrification, farm inputs and equipment, as well as recreation, sports and agricultural support.
Despite the volume of work, Agbese is known for shunning fanfare. He rarely commissions his own projects and is often already planning the next one once delivery is complete.
“I am not the kind of person who loves to show off, especially when there is still more work to be done. That is why I hardly commission my own projects,” Agbese explained.
“Each time a project is delivered, I am already looking forward to starting the next one and not taking glory. I dread fanfare and do not love the spotlight like many others. The work itself is what matters.”
Beyond constituency projects, Agbese has built a strong legislative record in the National Assembly.
He holds the distinction of moving the highest number of motions and bills by any lawmaker from Benue State, including the Bill for the establishment of the College of Agriculture, Agila, which has already been passed.
He has also been a consistent voice on national issues, notably championing equal national honours for the Senate President and the Speaker, and taking a frontline position during the state of emergency debates in Rivers State.
“The work continues with the same energy,” Agbese noted. “Whether it is constituency projects, motions, bills or standing up on issues of national importance, the responsibility is the same — to serve effectively and without distraction. We remain committed to the people of Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo.”
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