Politics
Govs revolt as Wike’s expulsion breaks PDP
The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party escalated on Saturday following the expulsion of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and 10 other high-ranking leaders over alleged anti-party activities.
The decision was taken at the PDP’s 20th National Convention at the main bowl of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Those also expelled include a former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose; the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade; and Austin Nwachukwu.
Others are the factional chairman of the party, Mohammed Abdulrahman; Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; Austine Nwachukwu; Abraham Amah; George Turner; and Chief Dan Orbih.
A motion for the expulsion was moved by the former National Vice Chairman of the party (South), Chief Olabode George, and seconded by the Bauchi PDP Chairman, Samaila Burga, before its eventual adoption by the party’s delegates.
At the convention, the delegates also unanimously confirmed Umaru Damagum as the substantive National Chairman of the party.
The convention sparked divisions among the governors loyal to Damagum, as two of them—Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, who chaired the National Organising Committee of the convention, and the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang—dissociated themselves from Wike’s expulsion.
The battle before convention
The PDP has been engulfed in crises in recent months, with factions loyal to Wike and Damagum clashing over control of the party’s structure.
This culminated in a bitter confrontation before the convention.
Ahead of the convention, former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking justice after being denied the opportunity to purchase the PDP national chairmanship nomination form.
On Friday, Justice Peter Lifu ordered the party to suspend the convention.
He also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission from supervising, monitoring, or recognising any convention conducted by the PDP that did not include Lamido as a contestant.
Justice Lifu held that evidence before the court showed that Lamido had been denied the opportunity to obtain a nomination form to contest for the position of National Chairman.
Recall that on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Justice Lifu delivered a similar ruling restraining the PDP from holding the convention, which was intended to elect new national officers to lead the party.
Lamido, through his counsel, Jephthah Njikonye, SAN, had filed an ex parte motion seeking an interim injunction to halt the convention pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
In his ruling, Justice Lifu held that the plaintiff’s application had merit and consequently restrained the PDP from convening the event until the substantive matter before the court was resolved.
He noted that there was no reason to depart from an earlier ruling by Justice James Omotosho of the same court on October 31, 2025, which similarly halted the convention.
However, in a conflicting order, the Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan on November 3 permitted the PDP to proceed with the convention.
Justice Ladiran Akintola, ruling on an ex parte application filed by an Oyo PDP member, Mr Folahan Adelabi, directed INEC to attend and monitor the convention for the election of new national officers.
The Damagum camp went ahead with the programme, claiming no knowledge of Justice Lifu’s Friday order.
Wike, others expelled over anti-party activities— PDP
Announcing the expulsion of Wike and other high-profile members via X on Saturday, the PDP said the decision was ratified by the majority of delegates at the convention.
The party explained that the move underscored its commitment to eradicating internal divisions and anti-party conduct that have hindered its progress.
Citing Articles 10(6) and 58(1)(b), (c), (f), (i), (j), (l), as well as 59(1)(g) of its 2017 Constitution (as amended), the PDP argued that the National Convention remains supreme in all matters relating to the party, including issues of discipline involving its officers and members.
Speaking with after the announcement, the South-West PDP Chairman, Kamorudeen Ajisafe, said the expulsion was long overdue.
“Wike and others were suspended for anti-party activities,” Ajisafe said.
“They wanted to destroy the party, and we cannot allow that to happen.”
He, however, clarified that Lamido was not included in the expulsion despite his series of court moves to stop the convention.
“Lamido isn’t in Wike’s category. He is a respected PDP leader,” Ajisafe stated.
“He is just angry that he wasn’t allowed to purchase the nomination form to contest the PDP chairmanship, as he showed interest after the closure of the timeframe for such. We will resolve issues with him.”
The Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, dismissed the convention as mere drama.
Olayinka, via X, argued that no one should take the organisers seriously.
“They went to Ibadan to start dirty December in November. When people decide to start their own dirty December in November, one can’t but ignore whatever comes out of their mouths,” he wrote.
“They gathered in Ibadan to do social party, enjoyed themselves and got intoxicated. They are free to say anything.”
Govs revolt against Wike’s expulsion
Governor Fintiri dissociated himself from Wike’s expulsion.
Fintiri, while delivering his speech at the convention ground, said the absence of INEC officials at the event also necessitated his withdrawal from the exercise.
“With the absence of INEC and the various litigations for and against this convention, it is not within my prerogative to continue with this exercise. I leave the convention delegates to decide,” Fintiri said.
The Adamawa governor further clarified his position in a statement shared on his verified X handle (@AhmaduUmaruFintiri).
He described Wike’s expulsion as an action against the interest of the party and warned that it could plunge the PDP into an unending crisis.
Fintiri urged party members to work towards unity and the reconciliation of aggrieved members.
He noted that his position was informed by the desire for peace and stability within the party.
“I urge all stakeholders to work towards healing the divisions within the party and to strive for unity and cohesion. As a party man, I am committed to supporting efforts that promote peace, stability, and progress within the PDP,” he wrote.
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.”
Politics
2027: Tomorrow Is Here Group Rallies Thousands of Nsukka’s Voters for APC, Mbah, Tinubu’s Re-elections
…Our zone has settled for APC, can’t be deceived again – Igboetiti boss
The Tomorrow Is Here Movement (THM), a prominent political support group in Enugu State, has mobilised thousands of voters across Enugu North Senatorial District, popularly known as Nsukka Zone, in support of the re-election of Governor Peter Mbah, President Bola Tinubu and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
The mobilisation, which featured a victory walk across several communities in the district, attracted thousands of residents and supporters, with political leaders declaring that the zone was increasingly aligning with the APC ahead of the elections.
The Executive Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Hon. Martins Ugwu-Amadieze, reaffirmed the commitment of the zone to the APC, insisting that Nsukka voters would no longer be deceived by politicians without credible development agendas.
The rally, tagged “Victory Walk for All APC Candidates in Enugu North Senatorial Zone,” commenced at Opi, Nsukka, and proceeded through Orba, Obollo-Afor and Obollo-Eke in Udenu Local Government Area, before extending to Ogrute, Enugu-Ezike, in Igboeze North; Ibagwa-Aka in Igboeze South and other communities in Nsukka Local Government Area.
Speaking during the exercise on Monday, the Leader of the movement, Chief Tony Okonkwo, thanked the people for their massive participation, disclosing that the mobilisation, initially planned for about 200 persons, attracted thousands of supporters.
He attributed the turnout to the growing acceptance of the Mbah and Tinubu administrations, citing infrastructure development, educational interventions, healthcare delivery, agricultural empowerment and improved transportation.
“We were not prepared to see this number of people enduring a long walk across different parts of the zone that took several hours. Your presence today shows appreciation for what Governor Peter Mbah and President Bola Tinubu are doing.
“The ongoing dual carriageway from 9th Mile through Igbo-Etiti, Nsukka and Udenu to Benue is a major infrastructure investment that will transform our communities. Nsukka has also produced its first indigenous Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Professor Simon Ortuanya, after 50 years. Our people are benefiting from federal appointments, agricultural programmes and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
“Under Governor Mbah, we have witnessed improved security, Smart Green Schools in every ward, modern healthcare facilities and ongoing road projects. Over 50 CNG buses are also operating from the Nsukka Central Terminal, providing affordable transportation and security to passengers.
“These are visible interventions. We are glad that our people are embracing the APC. The good work must continue, and this is possible if we support the APC from the Presidency to the House of Assembly,” he said.
In his remarks, Ugwu-Amadieze urged voters to reject attempts by opposition politicians to exploit tribal sentiments and political emotions ahead of the 2027 elections, insisting that the APC had demonstrated greater commitment to the development of the zone.
He said the massive turnout at the victory walk reflected the willingness of residents to identify with Governor Mbah, President Tinubu and other APC candidates.
“What happened today was a victory walk for Governor Peter Mbah, President Bola Tinubu and all APC candidates in the zone. From what we have witnessed across Nsukka, I can boldly tell you that our people are happy to identify with Governor Peter Mbah.
“Our zone has settled for APC. We cannot be deceived again by politicians who have no clear agenda for our people. Our people have embraced the ideology behind the broom and are ready to vote for all APC candidates.
“When we approached Governor Mbah with two requests; to assist in securing the Vice-Chancellorship of the University of Nigeria for an indigene of Nsukka and to consider the dualisation of the Penoks–Nike–Ugwogo–Ekwegbe–Opi–Nsukka road, little did we know that he would exceed our expectations within a short period of time. That has never happened in the history of our zone. The people of Nsukka are prepared to reciprocate his commitment through their votes in 2027,” he declared.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Igboeze North Local Government Area, Dr. Chris Onyekachi, reaffirmed his people’s support for the APC, attributing increased financial capacity of subnational governments to the economic reforms of the Tinubu administration.
He said improved allocations to state and local governments had created opportunities for increased development interventions and infrastructure delivery at the grassroots, urging residents to support the continuity of the ongoing reforms.
Similarly, the Deputy ALGON Chairman and council boss of Igboeze South Local Government Area, Barr. Ferdinand Ukwueze, said the achievements of the Mbah administration and interventions by local government councils had demonstrated the APC’s capacity to deliver development.
He expressed confidence that the party would secure victory across the senatorial district in 2027, assuring that APC candidates would receive massive support from voters in the zone.
Among dignitaries who attended the rally were the APC State Secretary, Chukwudi Nnadozie; APC State Financial Secretary, Hon. Ejike Idodo; Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Ezenta Ezeani; Dan Shere; William Amuta; Hon. Favour Asogwa; and the Deputy Mayors of Udenu and Igboeze South Local Government Areas.
Others included Chief Chukwukwurote Odo, popularly known as Messiah na Nsukka; Hon. Mrs. Nkiru Ugwuagu, Deputy Mayor of Ezeagu Local Government Area; Vitalis Okonkwo (Oil Money), Special Personal Assistant on Grassroots Mobilisation; Osita Ajih; Local Government Coordinators of the Tomorrow Is Here Movement; and several other APC and THM faithful.
2027: At last NDC Speaks On Peter Obi’s Healt
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has dismissed concerns over the health of its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, insisting that the former Anambra State governor is in good health but requires adequate rest due to exhaustion from his demanding political schedule.
The party’s Deputy Campaign Spokesperson, Dr Sam Omale, gave the clarification during an interview on Channels Television, explaining that Obi’s frequent travels, hectic engagements and commitment to political activities had taken a toll on his energy.
According to Omale, the former governor maintains a demanding routine, often travelling between different locations within short periods while attending to numerous political and other responsibilities.
He noted that Obi hardly has enough time to rest, considering the intensity of his engagements and the energy he devotes to his political activities.
Omale expressed amazement at the presidential candidate’s ability to sustain such a hectic schedule, given the number of places he visits and the volume of activities he undertakes daily.
He, however, stressed that Obi’s need for adequate rest should not be interpreted as a sign of ill health, maintaining that the concern was primarily about physical exhaustion arising from his demanding schedule.
The party’s clarification comes amid public concerns over the presidential candidate’s health as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election gather momentum.
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