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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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“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.”

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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.

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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.”

…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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.