The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Category: Politics

  • Anambra Guber: Coalition stakeholders adopt ADC’s John Nwosu as candidate

    Anambra Guber: Coalition stakeholders adopt ADC’s John Nwosu as candidate

    The national leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and leaders of some other political parties under the aegis of Anambra Coalition Stakeholders Forum convened its first strategic meeting in Awka with key stakeholders across the state in attendance.

    The meeting officially adopted the governorship candidate of ADC for the November 8 election, Mr.John Nwosu, as the coalition candidate for the election.

    Nwosu, said the historic gathering marked a significant milestone in the party’s renewed commitment to reposition Nigeria for meaningful governance and the delivery of true dividends of democracy to the citizenry.

    He said: “The coalition meeting was more than just a convergence of political minds; it was a strategic and deliberate response to the growing outcry for accountable leadership, inclusive development, and a governance model that genuinely reflects the will and welfare of the people.

    “At the heart of this new direction is the party’s vision to foster a people-centered democratic culture; one rooted in transparency, equity, economic empowerment, and social justice.

    “With the Anambra State gubernatorial election fast approaching, the ADC coalition is set to take a bold stand, leveraging the political opportunity as a litmus test for its ideological and practical commitment to ending bad governance.

    “Anambra, a state rich in human capital, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural heritage, has for years yearned for leadership that prioritizes its people over personal or political interests.

    “The ADC-led coalition sees Anambra as the ideal launchpad for a broader national reawakening; a testing ground to prove that governance in Nigeria can be done differently, done better, and done for the people.

    “The coalition aims to disrupt the status quo, dismantle anti-people policies, and demonstrate that good governance is not just possible, but achievable when visionary leadership is combined with grassroots mobilization and coalition strength.

    According to him, the essence of the coalition meeting went beyond electoral strategy, adding that it was rooted in a shared belief that democracy must begin to work for the ordinary citizen, which entails revamping economic policies that had left the masses impoverished, challenging state actors who perpetuate corruption and impunity, and promoting inclusive governance that listens, learns, and leads with the people in mind.

    He said further: “Through the strategic coalition, the ADC is building a platform of unity, resilience, and national purpose, bringing together civil society groups, youth organizations, professional bodies, community leaders, and political allies who are committed to charting a new democratic course.

    “The coalition is a clarion call to Nigerians who believe in a better future and are ready to contribute to a transformational political movement.

    “As the political momentum builds towards the Anambra election, the ADC is positioning itself not just as a contender for office, but as a catalyst for a democratic rebirth.

    “The coalition’s activities will focus on grassroots engagement, policy articulation, and strategic alliance-building that can challenge entrenched interests and inspire a new wave of political participation across the state and the nation.” Vanguard

  • 2027: Atiku, El-Rufai, others pick new All Democratic Alliance party for coalition, writes INEC for registration

    2027: Atiku, El-Rufai, others pick new All Democratic Alliance party for coalition, writes INEC for registration

    Opposition leaders under the banner of the Nigeria National Coalition Group (NNCG) have adopted the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) as the platform to use in tackling the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

    NNCG has also formally applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register as a party ahead of the next general elections. The coalition’s application letter addressed to INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, and dated June 19, was co-signed by the National Chairman of ADA, Chief Akin Ricketts and Protem National Secretary, Abdullahi Musa Elayo.

    The letter which was stamped received by the office of the INEC chairman on June 20, 2025, was titled: “Application for registration as a political party” with ADA name and flag.

    “We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance as a political party.

    “This is sequel to the decision taken by the Nigerian National Coalition Group to sponsor our association for full registration.

    “The name of the party shall be All Democratic Alliance with ADA as our acronym and ‘Justice for All’ as our slogan.

    “The National Secretariat of the party is as stated at the bottom of the association’s letterhead used in this application.

    “We have also herewith attached our logo describing in details the symbolism of our party colours and the their configuration and the corn (Maize).

    “We have further attached our manifesto encompassing details of our party ideology, and our constitution providing the legal framework that defines our identity, structures and organization, regulates our affairs and guides our actions in alignment with Section 40 and 222 of the Constitution, Section 75 of the Electoral Act (2022) and global democratic principles and objectives.

    “Please find attached the following documents: our party flag depicting our name, acronym and slogan, manifesto, constitution and minutes of meeting.

    “While we eagerly await further action from the commission on the next step forward towards attaining our desired goal, please accept the consideration of our highest respect. Thank you yours most sincerely; Chief Akin A. Rickets, Protem National Chairman,” the letter read.

    Members of the coalition include: Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; ex-Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi; his Kaduna State counterpart, Nasir El-Rufai; the convener of the League of Northern Democrats, Dr. Umar Ardo, and former Senate President David Mark, among others.

    The group had considered joining an existing political party which saw the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) being earlier considered.

    The coalition later set up a committee to consider the option of registering a new platform where all members will start on equal footing in terms of membership.
    This was after several members of the coalition expressed concerns over the internal wrangling within existing parties, which in some cases led to litigation. Daily Trust

  • Presidency Dismisses Tinubu-Shettima Rift, Says Tinubu Will Pick 2027 Running Mate After APC Convention

    Presidency Dismisses Tinubu-Shettima Rift, Says Tinubu Will Pick 2027 Running Mate After APC Convention

    Special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, says the president will select his running mate for the 2027 election only after the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) holds its next national convention.

    Onanuga made the clarification during an interview, amid growing controversy over perceived sidelining of Vice-President Kashim Shettima during a recent APC stakeholders’ summit in Gombe. The event, which saw several speakers endorse Tinubu for a second term without any mention of Shettima, ended in chaos as some delegates protested with catcalls and threats of violence.

    Responding to questions about the silence from the presidency and rumours of a potential fallout between Tinubu and Shettima, Onanuga described the speculation as baseless.

    “The debate is a non-issue,” he said. “In a presidential system, the candidate is nominated first and later picks a running mate. That’s what happened under Buhari — he was nominated first and later picked his running mate. You don’t do both at once.”

    He explained that the timing of the selection would follow the release of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s timetable: “Once INEC releases the timetable, the party convention will hold, and if the president is nominated again, he will choose his running mate.”

    Onanuga also dismissed claims of a strained relationship between Tinubu and Shettima, insisting the two leaders have a strong working rapport.

    “I’m not aware of any issues between the president and the vice president. From what I know, they have an excellent working relationship. All the speculation is just beer parlour gossip,” he said.

    “People even say ridiculous things like Seyi Tinubu is the vice president. Absolute nonsense.”

    He noted that in Nigeria, rumours often surround those in deputy positions, whether at the state or federal level: “Even when there’s no conflict, people around them will concoct stories. But as far as I know, Tinubu and Shettima work together very well.”

    Reacting to suggestions that Tinubu’s track record as Lagos State governor — during which he had two deputies — could be a sign of future changes, Onanuga cautioned against drawing false parallels.

    “That’s just speculation. Yes, when he was governor, there were issues. In his first term, he and his deputy, Kofo, didn’t get along, and she had to leave. Femi Pedro replaced her. In the second term, he retained Pedro, but Pedro later defected — he wanted to be governor. That’s why he had to go,” he explained.

    “I don’t want to reopen old wounds, but that’s what happened. So, it’s wrong to say he has a pattern of discarding deputies. There were specific political circumstances each time. That’s what I’m explaining.” Arise News

  • Senate screens Tinubu’s nominees for RSIEC, other agencies

    Senate screens Tinubu’s nominees for RSIEC, other agencies

    The 17 candidates nominated by President Bola Tinubu to oversee the affairs of Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Rivers State Civil Service Commission and Rivers State Local Government Service Commission have officially declared their assets before the Code of Conduct Bureau.

    The assets declaration came on the heel of security clearance by the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Police.

    The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this during the screening exercise by the Senate ad hoc committee to oversee the activities of the Rivers Sole Administrator, Vice Adm Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).

    The development comes barely one week after President Tinubu transmitted the names of nominees to the Senate for confirmation.

    The five nominees for the Rivers State Civil Service Commission are Dr Barikor Baribuma (Chairman), Lot Egopija, Ms Maeve Ere-Bestman, Mrs Joy Obiaju and Mrs Charity Lloyd Harry.

    Rivers State Electoral Commission has seven nominees – Dr Michael Ekpai Odey (Chairman), Mr Lezaasi Torbira, Prof Arthur Nwafor, Prof Godfrey Mbudiogha, Prof Joyce Akaniwor, Dr (Mrs) Olive A. Bruce and Prof Chidi Halliday.

    The category of Rivers State Local Government Service Commission also has seven appointees namely Israel N. Amadi (Chairman), Linus Nwandem, Lady Christabel George-Didia, Dr Tonye Willie Pepple, Richard Ewoh, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ofik (retd) and Sammy Apiafi.

    The 17 nominees were all presented before the Senate committee by the Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Basheer Lado, who divided them into three categories.

    The nominees for the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board are expected to take place on Wednesday at the Senate. Punch

  • Mbah’s Support Soars as Enugu First Lady Concludes State Tour

    Mbah’s Support Soars as Enugu First Lady Concludes State Tour

    …Targets more women, children for economic, educational empowerment

    The First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechiyere Mbah, has concluded her familiarisation tours across the three senatorial zones of the state during which she received massive support and warm receptions from royal fathers, women groups, professional bodies, youths and political stakeholders.

    This was even as she promised to empower more women and prepare them for economic opportunities through skills acquisition and vocational trainings, while also continuing to prioritise the education of the less-privileged children.

    Speaking at Awgu, Enugu West Senatorial District, during the weekend, the First Lady, who had previously visited Amagunze and Nsukka, where she met with women, youths, and leaders of Enugu East Senatorial District and Enugu North Senatorial District, respectively, said the familiarisation tour was part of her commitment to reaching every part of the state and listening to the voices of the people.

    “This familiarisation visit is an opportunity to connect with you and understand your unique challenges and aspirations. It is also a chance to celebrate the unity and diversity that define our people. I am deeply impressed by the spirit of togetherness and the collective efforts of your leaders and stakeholders, who have continually worked to promote peace and development in the zones,” she said.

    She lauded the contributions of the 17 local government areas that make up the three senatorial zones, noting their historical roles in building the economic and political foundation of the state.

    The Wife of the Governor also commended the zones for their consistent dedication to peace, unity, and social progress, and praised women of Enugu State for their tireless efforts in moving their families and communities forward.

    “As I meet with stakeholders and the womenfolk from this district, I am reminded of women’s critical role in community development and social transformation. Through your efforts, families are nurtured, businesses thrive, and communities grow stronger.

    “I am, therefore, committed to supporting initiatives that empower women, enhance their skills, and provide platforms for their voices to be heard in decision-making.

    “As the First Lady of Enugu State, my role is one of service—championing causes that affect our families, women, children, and communities. Hence, I have come to listen, learn, and lend a hand. We must work to eliminate social, economic, and cultural barriers that prevent our women from succeeding.

    “I am committed to supporting skill acquisition, maternal health, prevention of gender-based violence, and access to education. No woman should be left behind,” she assured.

    Many community leaders and women organisations across the zones have equally reiterated their support for the Mbah administration beyond his current tenure, and expressed gratitude to the first lady for complementingwhat they described as the great works of her husband in the 260 wards of the state.

    Speaking, the Council Chairman of Awgu LGA, Hon Uchenna Okolo; Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Chief of State to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh; Member representing Awgu North State Constituency, Hon. Jane Eneh, Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Ugochi Madueke; Special Adviser to the Governor on Diaspora, Barr. Olangwa Ezekwu, Mrs. Ifenna Onoh, Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Mobilisation, PDP State Chairman, Dr Martin Chukwuweike, PDP State Assistant Organising Secretary, Barr Lovina Eneh, Chairman, Enugu State Capital Territory Development Authority, Barr Uche Anya, as well as wives of the chairmen, among others, expressed delight at the visit, noting that the zone would keep mobilising for the governor beyond 2027.

    Likewise, various speakers during the Enugu First Lady’s visit to Enugu East Senatorial District Nkanu East, Member representing Nkanu East/West Federal Constituency, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji; Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, Hon Okechukwu Edeh; Member representing Nkanu East State Constituency, Hon Okey Mbah; Commissioner for Children, Gender and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih; Member Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Board of Trustees, Dame Rita Mbah; wife of Nkanu East Chairman, Mrs. Edeh, among others, extolled Mrs. Mbah for the lofty projects initiated by her office, noting their positive impacts on lives and contributions to the development of the state.

    In the same vein, the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Council, Engr. Jude Asogwa; who spoke on behalf of other chairmen from the zone, as well as many other speakers during Mrs. Mbah’s visit to Enugu North Senatorial District, lauded the First Lady for rolling out programmes that had started transforming lives of women and children in the six LGAs of the zone.

  • The PDP should be embarrassed that Wike is still its member – Prof. Okey Ikechukwu

    The PDP should be embarrassed that Wike is still its member – Prof. Okey Ikechukwu

    The Executive Director of Development Specs Academy, Okey Ikechukwu, has said that the PDP should be embarrassed that the former governor of Rivers State and Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike is still a member, given his alleged anti-party activities.

    Ikechukwu, who spoke on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, however added that the former Rivers State governor remains a political asset.

    Ikechukwu said, “Wike, whether you like him a not, you must ask yourself: is this man a fool? The answer is no. Does he know what he is doing? Maybe. Can you disregard him? The answer is no. It is the PDP that should be embarrassed that Wike is still a member, given all that he has done and all that he’s doing.

    “It’s the PDP that should be embarrassed that it has not been able to manage such a man because Wike will be a political asset to anybody he works for. For those he is working for now, he is a political asset. But to allow him to bestride both lanes and be doing 160 kilometers per hour shows there is nobody controlling the traffic.

    “The PDP, with all due respect to the distinguished people in that party, is making itself look more ridiculous, not every day but every hour as the next hour comes. They should stop kidding themselves.”

    He slammed the opposition Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) for failing to manage its internal crises.

    The policy analyst said, “The PDP, a very robust party, a party which, during the days of (former President) Obasanjo, Audu Ogbe, and even Atiku (Abubakar) ran impressive campaigns. You had, I think, in 2003, three campaign teams. Today, it has shrunk into a whimpering collection of confounded men and women who are pretending to have a political party.

    “What else does the PDP do today other than talk about its quarrels? Well, occasionally, it makes press releases attacking the APC, thinking that that is political opposition.”

    According to him, the opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s administration is activists, civil society groups, concerned commentators, and elder statesmen who speak on national issues.

    “The whole point of opposition is that you present a profile that will make you attractive to the next person, that will make somebody say to themselves, ‘No, no, no, I need this man to replace this other guy; they don’t know what they are doing.’

    “Please, tell me what makes the PDP attractive today. Internally, it is in total disarray,” he added.

    The professor said that the party’s current preparations for the 2027 general elections, amid the internal crises, do not show that it will perform better at the polls, except it manages the problems.

    “So, in the next election, it will participate but it will not contest; it sounds contradictory.

    “You are taking part in an event but your preparation is such that we know that you are going to get there and get beaten thoroughly and carried out on a stretcher, except a dramatic reconfiguration occurs within that party, with clear attention to the need to modify the optics of people you see in the party,” he said.

  • After God, my loyalty is to Tinubu – Umahi

    After God, my loyalty is to Tinubu – Umahi

    Minister of Works, David Umahi, says after God, President Bola Tinubu is next as far as loyalty is concerned.

    Umahi made the declaration in Abakaliki while speaking with newsmen on the president’s recent commendation of him over some infrastructural feats.

    The minister said the commendation was worth more than one trillion dollars to him, as it shows he was on the right track and that God answers prayers.

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    “I have told the president even publicly that my loyalty is to God first and then, him. When a man gives you the type of trust Tinubu has given me, you will.be of the devil to betray him,” he said.

    He said anyone who betrayed Tinubu after receiving such a level of trust and support would incur the wrath of God.

    “Have you seen where a man presided over the procurement of a project worth N1.6 trillion, and his boss did not call him to ask how he went about it?

    “I am talking about one section of the project, depending on the length. I pray every day that if I place myself, family, and friends over God, Tinubu, and Nigerians, let Him not answer me,” he said.

    Umahi vowed to continue praying for Tinubu and all those who love him and appreciate what his doing.

    “I also dedicate the president’s commendation to all those who pray for me to succeed in serving the people.

    “This means that contractors would be on their toes to complete about 30 mega projects which the president will inaugurate by Dec.20.

    “I am involved in the construction and inspection of the projects scattered across the six geo-political zones of the country,” he said. (NAN)

  • ‘All Is Forgiven’, Tinubu Tells Sanwo-Olu

    ‘All Is Forgiven’, Tinubu Tells Sanwo-Olu

    President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday, told the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, he was no longer angry with him and that “all his sins” had been forgiven.

    This development came about after the president met with members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), who came to plead on behalf of the governor, and others who might have erred in the sight of the president.

    Chairman of the GAC, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, who welcomed the president to Lagos, said it was obvious he was unhappy with some persons in the state, especially the governor, and, therefore pleaded for mercy.

    Responding, the president, according to multiple sources, said, “It’s all over now. All is forgiven,” assuring everyone in the room that he was no longer angry with anyone, let alone Sanwo-Olu.

    It was at this point that Sanwo-Olu and other members of the GAC prostrated to the president in apparent remorse and appeasement.

    One of the sources told THISDAY that the meeting didn’t entertain a situation where the President or the governor had to start explaining what happened between them.

    They just pleaded for outright mercy on behalf of the governor, and the president granted it.

  • Akwa Ibom: Commissioner resigns after Gov. Eno’s defection to APC

    Akwa Ibom: Commissioner resigns after Gov. Eno’s defection to APC

    Ini Ememobong, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy and Special Duties in Akwa Ibom State, has resigned.

    Ememobong announced his resignation in a Facebook post on Friday following Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    In his social media post, Ememobong, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), shared that his decision was in accordance with the Governor’s directive that any political appointee unwilling to join the APC should step aside.

    “Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign,” he stated.

    “While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn.

    “My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.

    “This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries (Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port).

    “I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.

    “Let me convey the very sincere appreciation of my family to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, for appointing me into his cabinet.

    “Our very special appreciation goes to Mr Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for his enduring love and belief in me, especially for appointing me into the Executive Council during his administration.

    “Given another opportunity, I will do more.”

    “I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding,” he added.

  • JUST-IN: Akwa Ibom Gov Eno Joins APC

    JUST-IN: Akwa Ibom Gov Eno Joins APC

    The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

    He made this known during an official announcement on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.

    The governor said the decision followed “three months of wide consultation” with critical stakeholders across the state.

    Eno expressed his gratitude to the PDP for their support during his tenure, stating that it was time for him to make a progressive move.

    The governor said he decided to join the APC, citing his admiration for President Bola Tinubu and the need for Akwa Ibom State to align with the federal government to reap continuous benefits.

    Eno also assured the people of Akwa Ibom State that he would continue to work tirelessly for their benefit, regardless of party affiliation.

    He said, “After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC.

    ”We’re joining the APC today in the state interest and because of our critical admiration and respect for President Tinubu and to provide the needed support for Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

    ”We are not joing the APC from the position of weakness but from the position of strength and alive. We are joining the APC out of a need to align our state with the center.”

    Some of the APC Governors who attended the event included the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo) and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others.

  • Gov Adeleke not defecting to any party – Spokesperson

    Gov Adeleke not defecting to any party – Spokesperson

    Isa Umar, Abuja

    Following the visit of the governor of Osun state, Governor Ademola Adeleke, alongside his senior brother, Dr. Deji Adeleke, and hip-hop act, David Adeleke to President Bola Tinubu, the spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, has stated that Adeleke still remains a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

    Denying the allegation of defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Rasheed, in a terse statement, clarified that the governor’s visit was a “routine courtesy visit” by the Adeleke dynasty.

    Rasheed faulted media speculations on imminent defection of the governor All to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “The media speculation about likely or imminent defection is fake news. Governor Adeleke remains a member and leader of the PDP in Osun state.

    “The visit by the Adeleke dynasty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a routine courtesy visit. Any reading of defection agenda into the visit is mere fake news”, the statement clarified.

  • 2027: I’ll Consult With My God Before Taking Decision to Recontest – Gov. Otti

    2027: I’ll Consult With My God Before Taking Decision to Recontest – Gov. Otti

    Amidst endorsements and calls for reelection bid in 2027, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti says he will consult with God before taking decision.

    According to a government issued statement, Governor Alex Otti made his position known at Sam Ihesiulor Stadium, Okpuala Ngwa during the grand civic reception and appreciation ceremony organised by the ‘Oha Isiala Ngwa People’ of Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas, in recognition and appreciation of his towering and excellent performance across Abia State especially projects littered across Isiala Ngwa North and South Local Government Areas.

    While thanking the people for their endorsement, the Governor stated that 2027 will be in the hands of God.

    “Just like 2023 was in the hands of God, 2027 will also be in the hands of God.

    “So, while I thank you for this endorsement, because I see it as an endorsement of what has been achieved so far, I also thank you for making predictions.

    “I would only say that, I would go back and consult with my God. And as time goes on, my response will be made public. Because, like I said the other day, I know my people are waiting.

    Governor Otti explained that his administration’s deliberate investment in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the State is anchored on the potentials Aba has in driving the economic growth of the State.

    He added that, developing Aba is a strategic decision aimed at stimulating internally generated revenue to fund projects in other parts of the State.

    “Our concentration on Aba is because, we do know that Aba has the capacity to generate revenue for us to develop other parts of the State.

    “Aba occupies a prime place in our strategy, because that is our major commercial hub. Not just for Abia, but the South East and South-South,” Gov. Otti stated.

    The Governor, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving inclusive governance, said that his government is working simultaneously in all parts of the State. He announced that December is the deadline for the completion of the Mgboko–Ntigha road project.

    The State Chief Executive used the opportunity to clarify that the location of Abia Airport in Nsulu was purely on technical merit and not political considerations and disclosed that all affected landowners have been fully compensated.

    He also described the Abia Airport project as an ambitious undertaking, which is more than just an aviation facility but a full-fledged development hub, aimed at providing long-term economic benefit to the people.

    “We are not just building an Airport; we are building an Airport city. A three or four-star hotel is going to be there, and even the Nigeria Air-Force is going to have a base there. There is going to be markets and shopping plazas within the facility.

    “We have paid 100% compensation to everybody whose land was affected. If there’s anyone that has not been paid, it is not our fault. Maybe, they provided a wrong account number or there are three or four people struggling for the same space”, Gov Otti clarified.

    The Governor used the occasion to welcome stakeholders from other political parties, including former members of the PDP and Accord Party, as well as members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers who declared for the Labour Party during the event, and announced plans to transform the Sam Ihesiulo Stadium Okpuala Ngwa to a standard stadium and directed the Honourable Commissioner for Works and the Youth & Sports counterpart to commence the process.

    He thanked the people of Isiala Ngwa for their support to his administration and promised to continue running an inclusive and people-focused government to bring development to Abia State.

    In their remarks, the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Okenze Chief Ginger Onwusibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha and member representing Isialangwa North State Constituency, Hon. Collins Iheonunekwu said that the Governor has done excellently well and urged him to seek re-election in 2027.

    They commended the Governor for focusing on long-term development goals that prioritise infrastructure and human capital development, declaring that, there is no vacancy in Government House, Umuahia, until 2031.

    In their speeches, the Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Obinna Anaba and another son of the soil, Mr. Cyril Ishmael
    commended the administration’s rapid strides in infrastructural development, social welfare, and economic reforms, saying that, the Governor has proven that effective leadership is possible in Abia State.

    They reaffirmed the people’s support for the Governor and expressed confidence in his continued delivery of democratic dividends in Abia State.

    Contributing, the President of Ngwa National Association in USA and Canada, Dr. Ugochukwu Agu expressed satisfaction with the Governor’s performance, particularly in the education sector.

    He said that the Ngwa community abroad had launched support programmes to align with the administration’s developmental goals and have introduced scholarship schemes for students and undergraduates, and have launched a skills acquisition programme to up-skill the people.

    The occasion was graced by son and daughters of Isiala Ngwa North and South from all works of life, including the political class, academia, captains of Industries, elder statesmen, appointees of the Governor, Ndi Eze and a crowd of ordinary men and women capable of causing political tsunami in favour of the performing Governor in 2027.