Politics

Governor Defends Daughter’s Appointment To Coordinate First Lady’s Office

Published

2 years ago

October 7, 2024

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has faulted a media report suggesting that his first daughter, Mrs Helen Obareki, has been appointed as the First Lady of the state.

Mrs Patience Umo Eno, wife of the governor, died at a hospital on September 26, 2024, surrounded by family members.

During a condolence visit by the Wife of the President, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, the governor said his daughter, as the Special Assistant to his late wife, was in the right position to coordinate the Office of the First Lady.

Speaking at the All Nations Christian Ministry Intl, Eket, on Sunday, the governor described the move for his daughter coordinating the office as a gesture that came more out of a natural outcome, than a product of political expediency.

He stated that asking her to coordinate the office would bring healing to the family, keep the office running, and serve as one of the ways he would find comfort.

He stressed that First Ladies were not appointed, adding that in the face of the sad situation of the demise of his wife, it was not only proper but also comforting and assuring for the daughter, who had been her closest assistant, to coordinate the lofty programmes of the office.

Eno said priority attention would be given to his wife’s pet project, “Golden Initiative For All,” and other support programmes for the women, elderly, vulnerable, and the less privileged, adding that the activities could only be sustained with Mrs Obareki as coordinator due to her experience, exposure, education and access.

“Please listen to me and listen well, First Ladies are not appointed, they come with the governor. I made a statement, and I would like to repeat that statement for the avoidance of doubt.

“Our daughter, Mrs. Helen Obareki, will coordinate the office of the First Lady. She had been with the mother from the beginning, and you heard the First Lady of the Nation, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, say ‘The mother introduced her to me’.

“So appointing her as the coordinator is not an appointment of a First Lady. You don’t appoint a First Lady.

“So, by appointment, she is a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady. This is not political, it is natural.

“All I pray for is support and wisdom for her to be able to ensure that none of those programmes will die and that she will bring more insight and innovation to the office,” he said.

He said he decided to bring healing to the family and allow the smooth running of the office.

“The only reason I brought this up again is for clarification, that I am conscious of what I am doing, and it is to bring healing to the family and allow the office to keep running. That’s one of the ways I will be comforted,” the governor said.

Speaking further, Eno said, “Even when Jesus died, Peter said ‘Choose from amongst us those that were with Jesus’. So, for me, the Office of the First Lady has responsibilities to the women of this state, and my wife had programmes she was running: the GIFA, the support for the elderly and the other programmes, and as long as I remain governor, those programmes will not die.

“There must be a coordinator, and it must be someone that I see daily, someone that can walk into my room and brief me, not a distant person.”

He reaffirmed his gratitude to Mrs Tinubu and her entourage of some of Nigeria’s renowned women for their visit which he described as timely.

He also thanked her for acknowledging the appointment of Obareki to run the late mother’s office as apt.

The governor appreciated the church for the consolation messages and charged them to be consoled in the word of God.

Politics

Nwifuru’s Quiet Politics Faces Its Biggest Test as the 2027 Battle Takes Shape

Published

2 days ago

July 8, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

By PETRUS OBI

For more than three years, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has pursued a political strategy that stands out in Nigeria’s often turbulent succession politics.

Rather than engaging in public confrontation with his predecessor, Engr Dave Umahi, he has consistently chosen restraint, patience and consensus-building.

That approach has helped preserve political stability in Ebonyi.

Unlike many successor administrations that descend into open conflict with former governors, Nwifuru has continued to project respect for the man who played a decisive role in his emergence as governor.

Publicly, both leaders have repeatedly affirmed their relationship and their commitment to moving the state forward.

Yet politics is often shaped less by public declarations than by the struggle for influence behind closed doors.

Across Ebonyi, there is growing speculation that a quiet contest for political supremacy is gradually unfolding between the governor and his predecessor.

While neither camp has openly acknowledged any rift, recent political developments have fuelled perceptions that both men are steadily consolidating their respective political structures ahead of the 2027 elections.

One of the most discussed examples is the “tussle for the APC ticket for the Afikpo North/Edda Federal Constituency. Governor Nwifuru was widely believed to have preferred the return of the incumbent representative, Idu Igariwey. However, the table was recently turned for the emergence of Ekumankama, who is widely seen as enjoying the backing of Umahi. This has been interpreted by many political observers as evidence that the former governor still commands considerable influence within the party.

Whether or not that interpretation is entirely accurate, the episode reinforced one political reality: while Nwifuru controls the Government House, Umahi remains one of the most influential figures in Ebonyi politics.

It is an unusual political equation. One man possesses the constitutional powers of incumbency, while the other retains an extensive political network built during eight years as governor and now occupies a strategic position in President ‘s cabinet.

Interestingly, the governor has continued to resist attempts to draw him into unnecessary political disputes.

A recent example was the controversy surrounding claims that he verbally attacked the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike duringa recentendorsementrallyforPresidentTinubu. The Ebonyi State Government swiftly dismissed the reports, accusing elements of the opposition, particularly the PDP, of deliberately twisting the governor’s remarks in an effort to create friction between the two leaders.

The response reinforced Nwifuru’s broader political style—avoiding public confrontations that could distract him from governance or create avoidable divisions within the ruling party.

Rather than escalating tensions elsewhere, Nwifuru has largely responded with silence and composure. He has neither publicly criticised his predecessor nor allowed perceived disagreements to dominate public discourse.

That restraint appears calculated. An open confrontation could fracture the APC, weaken governance and hand political opportunities to the opposition.

Instead, the governor has quietly strengthened his own political foundation. Through appointments, stakeholder engagement, consultations and the execution of projects, he has continued to expand his influence across Ebonyi’s thirteen local government areas.

Today, much of the state’s political establishment appears aligned with the governor. Members of the State Executive Council, the State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, women and youth groups, and many grassroots party leaders have publicly identified with his administration. While political loyalties can evolve, incumbency remains one of the strongest advantages in Nigerian politics.

Perhaps Nwifuru’s greatest political strength is that he has largely avoided creating unnecessary enemies. In a political environment where confrontation often defines leadership, he has preferred accommodation to conflict. That has enabled him to consolidate authority steadily while maintaining an image of stability and maturity.

However, the road to 2027 may become more complicated.

As political calculations intensify, ambitions will grow, alliances may shift and competing interests within the APC could become increasingly difficult to reconcile. The governor’s greatest challenge may not be defeating the opposition but sustaining unity within a party that contains multiple centres of influence.

His relationship with Umahi will therefore remain central to Ebonyi’s political future. If both leaders continue to manage their differences privately, the APC could approach the election as a united force. If those differences become more pronounced, internal divisions—not the opposition—could emerge as the governor’s greatest political obstacle.

Beyond political calculations, governance will remain Nwifuru’s strongest campaign asset. Infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, security and job creation will ultimately shape public perception more than political manoeuvring. A convincing record of performance would strengthen his case for continuity and make it more difficult for opponents to gain traction.

His close relationship with President Tinubu’s administration is another advantage. Should the Federal Government continue maintaining political momentum, Nwifuru could benefit from the goodwill generated by that partnership, particularly in a state where the APC remains the dominant political force.

Still, politics rarely rewards complacency. Economic pressures, changing voter expectations, unforeseen political realignments and disagreements within the ruling party could alter today’s political calculations before 2027.

As matters stand, Governor Francis Nwifuru appears to occupy a strong position ahead of the next governorship election. He enjoys the advantages of incumbency, broad institutional support, a relatively peaceful political environment and a reputation for measured leadership.

Yet one question continues to hover over Ebonyi politics: can the governor and his influential predecessor continue to manage an increasingly delicate relationship without allowing a quiet rivalry to become an open political confrontation?

The answer may ultimately determine not only Nwifuru’s re-election prospects but also the unity of the APC in Ebonyi and the party’s ability to deliver another commanding victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the state.

For now, the battle is not being fought through fiery speeches or public attacks. It is being waged through influence, negotiations, strategic endorsements and the gradual consolidation of political structures. And in politics, the quietest contests often produce the most significant outcomes.

Politics

Peter Obi Alleges Harassment, Says He May Not Be Alive to Contest 2027 Election

Published

2 days ago

July 8, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), , has expressed concern over what he described as persistent harassment and frustration ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking during an interview with Chude Jideonwo, Obi alleged that the actions of the current administration have made his daily activities increasingly difficult and negatively affected his means of livelihood.

The former Anambra State governor claimed he faces constant obstacles and said the pressure has become so intense that he cannot be certain he will be alive to participate in the 2027 presidential election.

“With the way this government is going, I may not even be alive to contest the 2027 election. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is deliberately frustrating. I face frustration every day,” Obi said.

He also alleged that he recently experienced an incident at an airport where his vehicle was locked, citing it as an example of the challenges he claims to be facing.

Obi did not provide further details about the airport incident or identify those allegedly responsible for the action.

Politics

Senate: Odoh Unveils Vision to Make Ebonyi Central Globally Competitive

Published

2 days ago

July 8, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for Ebonyi Central Senatorial District, , has unveiled an ambitious legislative agenda aimed at positioning the district as a globally competitive hub for innovation, technology, agriculture and enterprise.

In a statement addressed to the people of Ebonyi Central, Odoh thanked the leadership of the NDC, party members, stakeholders and supporters for entrusting him with the party’s ticket for the 2027 general election.

He described his emergence as a call to service and pledged to pursue legislative initiatives capable of attracting federal interventions, strategic investments and economic opportunities to the district.

According to him, the future of Ebonyi Central depends on electing a senator who can shape transformative legislation, influence national budgets, strengthen oversight and build partnerships that deliver sustainable development.

Odoh argued that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, digital technology, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and precision agriculture require proactive policies to ensure Ebonyi Central is not left behind in the global economy.

He said his legislative priorities would include expanding broadband infrastructure, promoting digital innovation and skills centres, attracting agro-processing and mineral beneficiation industries, and supporting modern agricultural practices to improve productivity and create jobs.

The NDC candidate also promised to unveil a five-part SMART Legislative Agenda detailing plans to strengthen education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, agriculture and investment through purposeful legislation and strategic federal advocacy.

He urged residents of Ebonyi Central to support a vision that would transform the district into a centre of innovation, enterprise and shared prosperity, with the goal of delivering “prosperity in every home, jobs, wealth and opportunity.”

Politics

2027: Nwifuru Plays Safe as Cold War Brews, Denies Rift with Wike

Published

2 days ago

July 7, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

The Ebonyi State Government has moved to dispel speculations of a rift between Governor and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, NyesomWike, insisting that the governor never threatened the minister and that reports suggesting otherwise were politically motivated.

The clarification comes amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, following remarks made by Governor Nwifuru during the June 15 endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu and other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates at the .

Addressing journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Ikeuwa Omebeh, dismissed allegations by factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that the governor had threatened Wike.

According to Omebeh, the governor’s remarks were directed at opposition figures allegedly exploiting Wike’s name to spread misinformation and stoke political tension in Ebonyi State, not at the FCT minister himself.

He explained that Nwifuru’s use of the word “consume” was figurative and merely signified that individuals bent on disrupting public peace would face the full weight of the law if they refused to desist.

“The attention of the Ebonyi State Government has been drawn to statements issued by the national leadership of the two factions of the PDP, as well as media reports concerning remarks made by Governor Francis Nwifuru during the endorsement rally,” Omebeh said.

“We wish to state categorically that at no time did His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, issue any threat against the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike.”

The commissioner maintained that Governor Nwifuru and Wike enjoy a cordial relationship built on mutual respect, describing attempts to portray them as political rivals as false and mischievous.

He accused the PDP and some media outlets of twisting the governor’s comments to manufacture an unnecessary dispute between the two leaders for political gain.

Omebeh also urged the opposition to focus on resolving its internal leadership crisis instead of criticising the Nwifuru administration, arguing that the PDP lacked the moral standing to lecture the government on governance.

He further claimed that the opposition had lost political relevance in Ebonyi State and would not pose a serious challenge to the ruling APC in the 2027 elections.

Reaffirming the government’s position, the commissioner said the people of Ebonyi State remained firmly behind Governor Nwifuru and would demonstrate that support at the polls, insisting that attempts to create an imaginary rift between the governor and Wike would ultimately fail.

Politics

APC Races to Meet INEC July 11 Nomination Deadline as Tinubu Yet to Name Running Mate

Published

4 days ago

July 6, 2026

Everydaynewsngr

With the July 11, 2026 deadline for the submission of presidential nomination forms to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fast approaching, political parties are making last-minute efforts to complete the nomination process.
INEC fixed 6:00 p.m. on July 11 as the deadline for political parties to submit the nomination forms of their presidential and National Assembly candidates through its online nomination portal. The exercise, which began on June 27, involves the submission of Forms EC9 and EC9A to EC9E in accordance with Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.
The commission also scheduled the submission of nomination forms for governorship and State Houses of Assembly candidates from July 18 to August 8, while the personal particulars of presidential and National Assembly candidates will be published on August 1. Governorship and State Assembly candidates’ particulars will be published on August 29.
Among the major presidential contenders, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has named former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as the running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, while the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has paired Peter Obi with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.
However, President Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has yet to formally announce his running mate, despite widespread speculation that he will retain Vice President Kashim Shettima.
A decision to retain Shettima would put to rest months of speculation over the APC ticket following reports of strained relations between the President and his deputy. The rumours intensified after an APC North-East stakeholders’ meeting in Gombe descended into chaos when supporters of Shettima allegedly attacked the party’s zonal vice chairman, Mustapha Salihu, over the omission of the Vice President’s name during endorsements for Tinubu.
Tinubu secured the APC presidential ticket during the party’s nationwide primaries held on May 23, 2026, defeating his sole challenger, Stanley Osifo, by a landslide. He received his Certificate of Return the following day in Abuja but has yet to unveil his running mate.
The APC has maintained that the choice of a running mate remains the President’s exclusive decision.
Of the major parties, only the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), whose presidential candidate is Sandy Onor, are yet to announce their vice-presidential candidates.
Placeholder Option Still Available
Although July 11 is the deadline for submitting presidential nominations, INEC’s timetable allows political parties to withdraw and replace presidential and National Assembly candidates until August 22.
This provision means the APC could adopt the strategy it used in 2022 by submitting Tinubu’s nomination alongside a placeholder vice-presidential candidate before replacing the nominee ahead of the substitution deadline.
Ahead of the 2023 election, Tinubu initially submitted the name of Ibrahim Masari as a placeholder vice-presidential candidate before Masari withdrew, allowing Shettima to emerge as the substantive running mate. Masari later served in Tinubu’s administration as Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters before being appointed Special Adviser on Political Affairs.
APC Says Upload Process Progressing Smoothly
Party sources disclosed that the APC has already uploaded the nomination details of several House of Representatives and Senate candidates, including those of prominent lawmakers and serving governors seeking Senate seats.
According to one senior party source, the nomination forms of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma have already been uploaded to the INEC portal.
The source expressed confidence that Tinubu’s nomination and that of his running mate would be submitted before the deadline.
“We have covered a lot of ground. The uploading of candidates is going as planned. Our leaders and stakeholders are working round the clock to ensure all candidates are uploaded before the July 11 deadline,” the source said.
Another APC official described the exercise as seamless and transparent, adding that the party remained committed to complying fully with the INEC timetable.
ADC, NDC Confirm Submissions
Officials of both the ADC and NDC confirmed that their presidential candidates’ nomination forms had already been uploaded to the INEC portal.
NDC national leader Seriake Dickson confirmed the submission of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso’s nomination, while ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi said the party had successfully uploaded the nomination forms of Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi.
PDP Nears Completion
The Peoples Democratic Party also said it had completed approximately 60 percent of the upload of its National Assembly candidates.
PDP National Organising Secretary Umar Bature explained that about 169 nominations were still pending due to delayed submission of documents by some candidates.
He expressed optimism that the exercise would be completed before the deadline, noting that uploads were being carried out daily as documentation was received.