Category: Politics

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned that the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should not be reduced to a contest for presidential ambition, insisting that the party’s survival hinges on rebuilding its grassroots structure.

Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Friday, Wike argued that winning the presidency without a strong sub-national base would leave the party ineffective, regardless of who occupies the highest office.

The FCT Minister maintained that the PDP must first stabilise and re-establish itself at all levels before focusing on national power.

“Nobody does that. So the whole thing is not about the presidency. That’s what I have never liked,” Wike stated.

He emphasized that a presidential victory without a solid party structure on the ground would amount to little.

“Even if you win the presidency, if you don’t have the sub-national structure, the party is not on ground,” he said.

Wike added that the priority should be ensuring the PDP remains functional after emerging from its internal crisis, rather than fixating on who leads the party or the country.

“What is important to me is that the PDP is still on ground to make an impact after the crisis it has come through,” he concluded.

The comments come amid the just concluded national convention of the PDP loyal to Wike, and as factions continue to jostle for control of the party’s structure ahead of future elections.

The entire Awkunanaw Clan has announced a Mega Rally in honour of the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, scheduled to hold on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The event, according to a public announcement released by the clan, will take place at the Awkunanaw Civic Center, Akpasha, Akegbe Ugwu, in Nkanu West Local Government Area, commencing at 10:00 am.

All sons and daughters of Awkunanaw, stakeholders, residents of Enugu State, and the general public are cordially invited to attend the rally, which is being organized to honour the Governor for his transformative leadership.

The clan further praised Governor Mbah’s leadership, noting that his administration has become a point of reference for other sub-nationals across the country, setting a new benchmark for good governance.

“Your Excellency, your leadership in Enugu State has become a point of reference for other sub-nationals in the country, setting a new benchmark. You have redesigned and redefined good governance, and as a clan, we are proud of you”.

The rally is expected to draw a large crowd from the Awkunanaw clan and beyond, as they come together to celebrate the Governor’s achievements and reaffirm their support for his administration, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Our correspondent reports that Awkunanaw clan include : Akegbe Ugwu, Obuoffia, Amechi, Amodu, Umueze, Akwuke, Ugwuaji, and Obeagu.

The focused and transformational leader of Enugu State, Barr. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has quietly but decisively elevated the state to an enviable status as the de facto capital of Southern Nigeria. This achievement is not by chance, but through deliberate and strategic investments across critical sectors.

His administration has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to education through the establishment of smart schools and the integration of digital technology. In infrastructure, long-abandoned projects such as the International Conference Centre, Hotel Presidential, and Nike Lake Hotel Resort have been revived and are receiving the attention they deserve. The ongoing development of an ultra-modern international hospital further reflects his vision for a healthier and more prosperous Enugu. The acquisition of CNG buses, taxis, growing fleet of Enugu Airline coupled with bus terminals across the state have made traveling easier placed Enugu as a major traveling hubs in the country.

Across the state, massive road construction projects now connect both urban and rural communities, complemented by the establishment of asphalt plants to sustain development. In agriculture, the introduction of year-round farming, supported by modern implements such as tractors, is positioning Enugu as a hub for food security and agribusiness.

Politically, the recently concluded APC National Convention in Abuja has further cemented the Governor’s stature as a leader who truly “sees tomorrow today.” His strategic influence was evident in the emergence of Dr. Ben Nwoye, a founding member of the APC and former State Chairman, as the APC Deputy National Chairman (South). This, alongside the emergence of Dr. Oby Ajih as the APC Woman Leader for the Southeast Zone, speaks volumes about the Governor’s growing political strength and foresight.

Governor Mbah’s consistent support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his commitment to national assignments particularly in the rehabilitation of infrastructure in Police Colleges across the country underscore his dedication to nation building. These efforts align with his broader vision of upgrading infrastructure to meet global standards.

In the area of security, Enugu State has witnessed remarkable transformation. With the deployment of advanced Command and Control Security Center with drones, and intelligent surveillance cameras across major intersections and on Distress Response Squad patrol (DRS) vehicles, the state has become one of the safest in Nigeria. It is no surprise that Mr. President has entrusted him with sensitive national responsibilities.

Governor Mbah’s vision for Enugu is firmly anchored in his mantra, “Tomorrow is Here.” Today, that vision is manifesting in infrastructure renewal, digital innovation, educational advancement, and Enugu’s emergence as a political and economic hub in Southern Nigeria. With improvements in aviation, healthcare, and transportation, the state is steadily positioning itself as a destination for medical tourism and investment.

Indeed, Enugu is back and thriving under one of the most performing governors in Nigeria. In recognition of these sterling achievements, and in line with the principle that one good turn deserves another, the people of Enugu State are poised to reward Governor Peter Mbah with a well deserved second term in office, come 2027.

Dr. John Egbo, Deputy Sheriff, rtd. Writes from Enugu.

The Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, has congratulated Dr. Ben Nwoye on his emergence as the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the victory as well-deserved and a testament to his unwavering commitment to the party.

In a congratulatory message, Ogbodo, speaking on behalf of the good people of Nkanu West LGA, expressed confidence that Nwoye’s tenure would further strengthen the APC and advance the collective interest of the South.

The Council Chairman lauded Nwoye’s personal qualities, noting that his personality reflects discipline, humility, resilience, and a deep sense of service.

“Dr. Nwoye, your personality reflects discipline, humility, resilience, and a deep sense of service. You have consistently demonstrated integrity and political maturity, earning the trust and respect of party faithful across the region,” Ogbodo stated.

He added that Nwoye’s calm disposition and strategic approach to leadership set him apart as a unifying figure capable of driving progress and cohesion within the party.

Ogbodo also commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his role in making the achievement possible, noting that his visionary leadership, strategic support, and commitment to party unity played a significant part in Nwoye’s emergence.

“His dedication to strengthening the APC in Enugu State and beyond continues to yield remarkable results,” the Chairman said.

The Nkanu West Council Chairman assured Nwoye of total support and loyalty as he embarks on his new responsibilities.

“Be assured of our total support and loyalty as you embark on this new responsibility. Congratulations once again, sir,” he concluded.

…Eulogizes Tinubu for a rancour-free convention

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has congratulated the National Working Committee (NWC) members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) elected at the party’s 8th National Convention held in Abuja, Friday.

Mbah hailed them as “round pegs in round holes,” saying their election reflected a deep confidence in their ability to steer the APC to greater heights and also to resounding victory in the 2027 general elections.

He said the National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda; National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Basiru; Deputy National Chairman (South), Dr. Ben Nwoye; Deputy National Chairman (North), Ali Bukar Dalori, and the rest of the executives came with deep experience in party politics as well as unalloyed commitment to the nation, democracy and the party.

The governor also paid glowing tribute to President Bola Tinubu, noting that the peace, orderliness, conviviality and sense of brotherhood that characterized the national convention was yet another glittering demonstration of the President’s sterling leadership qualities, remarkable inclusive governance philosophy, and immense experience at political engineering

The governor added that through the conduct of a rancour-free convention, the APC had, once again, set an enviable benchmark for other political parties to emulate.

“Democracy is about the people, and we have demonstrated that tonight. The success of this convention shows that as a party, we are not only modeling good governance and implementing reforms that are repositioning our economy, we have also shown that the APC is a model in party politics and that we are one big family,” Governor Mbah said.

He pledged his total support to the new party leadership, urging every member of the party to rally round them to build on the gains of the successful congresses and national convention.

The APC Youth Progressive Forum has thrown its weight behind the candidacy of Dr. Ben Nwoye for the position of Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress, describing him as a visionary leader with a revolutionary blueprint to mobilize millions of Nigerians for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the National Chairman of the forum, Rt. Hon. Ukkasha Hamza Rahama, outlined Nwoye’s extensive credentials and unveiled an ambitious empowerment and mobilization agenda that the group said would redefine grassroots engagement in the South.

‘A Champion of the South’

Rahama described Nwoye as a stalwart of the APC with decades of unwavering loyalty and commitment to the progress of the party.

“Dr. Nwoye’s vision for the APC is not just about rhetoric but about revolutionary action. He aims to mobilize millions of Nigerians to renew their mandate for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, while opening floodgates of empowerment, employment, training, and global opportunities that will reward loyalty, uplift the forgotten, and ignite the brightest futures for women and youth,” he stated.

Grassroots Mobilisation Strategy

The Youth Forum chairman painted a picture of Nwoye’s mobilisation strategy as a grassroots symphony of town-hall dialogues, digital town criers, and community champions that will sweep across every ward, village, and city in the South-East, South-South, and South-West.

“Imagine a network of 10,000 trained APC ambassadors, young men and women equipped with smartphones, branded with hope, and fired by purpose, carrying President Tinubu’s message of security, economic revival, and inclusive growth into every household,” Rahama said.

Through culturally resonant storytelling in Igbo, Yoruba, Ijaw, Efik, and pidgin, he added, Nwoye would rekindle the fire of 2023, ensuring that 2027 becomes not just a victory, but a landslide of historic proportions.

Empowerment Ecosystem for Party Faithful

Rahama highlighted Nwoye’s commitment to rewarding those who sacrificed for the party’s victories, noting that through strategic collaboration with key Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, he would architect a comprehensive empowerment ecosystem.

“Party faithfuls who mobilised, canvassed, and delivered votes will no longer be spectators; they will be first beneficiaries,” he declared.

He outlined several initiatives under Nwoye’s proposed leadership:

• APC Southern Prosperity Window: Thousands of women, men, youths, market leaders, artisans, and entrepreneurs receiving targeted grants, business training, and access to CBN intervention funds.
• Priority Access: Youths who campaigned gaining priority access to N-Power 2.0, digital skills academies, and international training scholarships.
• International Training: Hundreds of deserving party members to be sent abroad for specialised training in renewable energy, agribusiness, technology, and Healthcare.
• APC South Talent Pipeline: A dedicated database matching loyal party members with jobs in infrastructure projects, the creative industry, agriculture value chains, and the blue economy

Special Focus on Women and Youth

Rahama emphasized that at the heart of Nwoye’s vision beats a special emphasis on women and youth. He disclosed plans to institutionalise a “Women and Youth Empowerment Desk” right at the Deputy National Chairman’s office, ensuring that every federal programme is ring-fenced for APC members who delivered victory.

“Women will receive micro-credit facilities, leadership training, and political mentorship to contest and win elective offices,” he added.

The Youth Forum chairman concluded by urging all delegates to support Nwoye’s candidacy, describing him as a visionary leader who has dedicated his life to the progress of the APC and the South region.

“His decades of unwavering loyalty, commitment, and service make him an ideal candidate for the job. We urge all delegates to support his candidacy and join us in building a brighter future for the APC and Nigeria,” Rahama said.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), South East Zone, has successfully concluded the zonal congress of the party, with an eight-member zonal executive emerging by consensus.

The zonal congress, which held on Wednesday at the newly revamped Hotel Presidential, Enugu, witnessed a mammoth turnout of party leaders, delegates, and party faithful from the fybe states of the South East.

Governor of Ebonyi State, Hon. Francis Nwifuru’s motion for the dissolution of the old zonal executive was seconded by the Senator representing Imo North Senatorial District, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, and unanimously adopted, thus paving the way for the election of a new zonal executive.

However, before the continuation of proceedings, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State announced that the leaders of the party in the zone had fruitful and extensive discussions at the Government House, Enugu, where they decided to adopt the consensus mode of election, one of the two options spelt out in the party’s constitution.

“Today, in line with Article 20.1 of the Constitution of the APC, both the leadership and stakeholders of our party have agreed that our zonal congress shall be by consensus mode,” he stated.

Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, moved a three-in-one motion, namely: a motion for the ratification of the outcomes of the ward, local government, and state congresses earlier concluded by the party; a motion for the adoption of the consensus mode of the zonal congress; and a motion naming the proposed officers for adoption by delegates.

The motion was seconded by the Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu, and was unanimously adopted.

Consequently, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu was reelected as the Vice Chairman (South East) of the APC, while Chief Innocent Azuoba emerged as the Zonal Secretary.

Others who emerged are: Zonal Legal Secretary, Barr. Ernest Mayor Ogbonna; Zonal Publicity Secretary, Hon. Henry Onwuahaluonye; Zonal Youth Leader, Barr. Chima Kenneth Ogbonna; Zonal Leader of Persons with Disabilities, Dr. Nwachukwu Stanley Chinedu; Zonal Woman Leader, Dr. Oby Ajih; and Zonal Organising Secretary, Chief Arinze Ikedife.

Meanwhile, addressing the congress, the host governor and leader of the party in Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, said the successful ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses reinforced the strength and unity of the party in the South East, as well as the determination of the South East APC to return President Bola Tinubu to office in 2027.

“Ndi Igbo, our presence here, and the number of people that I have seen here today, is a testament to the fact that the South East is APC and APC is South East.

“There is no gainsaying the fact that APC in the South East is solid. I know that we have some naysayers who believed that our congresses would lead to an implosion. But we have disappointed those naysayers and critics because we have come out of these congresses stronger as a party.

“Importantly also, our peaceful and successful congresses in the South East region underscore our determination to reelect the President come 2027. So, I want to also commend the President for his audacious and expedient reforms. He has launched our country, Nigeria, on the path of major economic growth,” he stated.

While commending the ex-zonal executives and members of the National Working Committee in the region for their tireless efforts in making the APC solid in the region, Mbah congratulated the newly elected zonal executives, charging them to shoulder the responsibility of leading and consolidating the gains of the party in the region creditably.

The governor equally urged continued unity in the South East APC going into the National Convention in Abuja.

“As we go ahead to the National Convention, let us sustain this sense of brotherhood in our party, in our zone. Beyond the congresses, let us also continue to demonstrate that the South East APC is not only growing, but equally a model of internal cohesion and progressive politics,” he stated.

…As party’s national leadership names all zonal congress venues

All is set for the zonal congress of the All Progressives Congress, APC, South East region to be held in Enugu on Wednesday.

This is line with the 2026 Schedule of Activities and Timetable of the Nationwide Congresses and Related Activities earlier released by the national leadership of the party. This, however, did not specify venues.

However, in a letter addressed to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, entitled “Notices of Conduct of Zonal Congresses” jointly issued by the National of the party, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and the National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Bashiru, the party named the Multipurpose Hall of Hotel Presidential Enugu as venue for the South East zonal congress.

The ruling party equally penciled down the Mobolaji Johnson Arena (Onikan Stadium), Lagos State as venue for South West zonal congress and the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, Delta State, as venue for South South zone.

Other venues are the Yar’Adua Multipurpose Conference Centre, Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna, for the North West zone; International Conference Centre, Gombe, for North East zone, and the Aliyu Akwe Doma Conference Hall, Government House, Lafia, Nasarawa State for North Central zone.

The congresses are expected to commence at 10 o’clock in the morning at all the venues.

A coalition of indigenous youths from Eha-Amufu community in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State has expressed support for Chidi Egbuogu, as conversations around representation in the Enugu State House of Assembly continue to gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle.

In a statement signed by C. J. Nnamani, the group said its position followed consultations among youth leaders and community stakeholders on individuals considered capable of advancing the interests of the constituency at the state legislature.

The youths noted that Egbuogu possesses leadership qualities, political exposure, and grassroots engagement which they believe could contribute meaningfully to discussions on development and representation in Isi-Uzo.

According to the statement, Egbuogu, who previously served as Special Assistant to the immediate past Governor of Enugu State on Drugs and Narcotics, has demonstrated commitment to public service and community engagement over the years.

The group described him as a leader with humility and a strong understanding of the socio-economic realities facing communities within the local government area.

“Following consultations among youth leaders and other stakeholders, we believe that Chidi Egbuogu has continued to show commitment to community development and grassroots mobilisation.

His experience in public service and community leadership has kept him actively engaged in issues affecting our people,” the statement read.

The youths also noted that his experience in politics and administration has positioned him among individuals contributing to ongoing discussions on infrastructure development, youth empowerment, security, and social welfare in the constituency.

They further emphasised the importance of constructive civic engagement and responsible leadership in strengthening democratic participation across Isi-Uzo.

Profile of Chidi Egbuogu

Chidi Egbuogu was born on August 23, 1982, in Ihenyi, Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State.

He is the son of the late Hon. Wilfred Egbuogu, a teacher and farmer, and Chief Hon. Josephine Egbuogu, a retired nurse.

He received his tertiary education at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, and later attended the University of Nigeria.

Egbuogu has been actively involved in student leadership and grassroots mobilisation. During his student years, he served as Secretary-General of the Students’ Union Government. He later founded the Isi-Uzo G-20, a grassroots mobilisation platform focused on community engagement.

He also served as Secretary-General of the Ihenyi Town Union and was appointed Special Assistant to the immediate past Governor of Enugu State on Drugs and Narcotics, where he participated in advocacy and public awareness initiatives on drug abuse prevention.

Married with three children, Egbuogu is widely known for his interest in sports, especially table tennis and football, and for his deep passion for reading.

The youths expressed optimism that increased participation of young leaders in public discourse would contribute to inclusive development and stronger representation across Isi-Uzo constituency.

Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Tambuwal announced the decision in a statement on Wednesday which was shared on his verified X account, saying he had communicated his resignation in writing to his ward chairman.

The former Sokoto State governor said the PDP had been a significant part of his political journey and expressed gratitude for the opportunities the party gave him to serve the country.

He noted that he served as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as governor of Sokoto State under the platform of the party.

However, Tambuwal said persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the PDP made it increasingly difficult for him to remain in the party.

According to him, the developments have weakened the unity and direction that once defined the PDP.

Consequently, he said he had officially joined the ADC along with his associates and supporters.

Tambuwal added that his decision was guided by the belief that Nigeria needs a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear commitment to national development.

See the full post below:

Today, after deep reflection and consultations, I have formally resigned my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and I have communicated my resignation to my ward chairman in writing.

The PDP has been a significant part of my political journey, and I remain grateful for the opportunities it gave me to serve our nation, including as Speaker of the House of Representatives and as Governor of Sokoto State during my second term in office.

However, the persistent internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and growing divisions within the PDP have made it increasingly difficult to continue my membership of the party. These developments have unfortunately weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party and have necessitated this decision.

Consequently, I have today officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) with my associates and supporters.

I am convinced that this decision is guided by my belief that Nigeria needs a stronger political platform built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness, and a clear commitment to national development.

I remain fully committed to the service of our country and to the ideals of democracy, justice, and national unity. – AWT