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You Started A Fight You Can’t Finish, Wike Fires Back At Makinde

Governor Seyi Makinde 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, warning against initiating political confrontations without the strength to sustain them.

Wike made the remarks on Monday during the 107th National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party, amid rising tensions within the party.

The clash follows comments by Makinde, who had alleged that politicians aligning with Wike’s faction were indirectly backing the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu ahead of 2027.

Makinde made the claim during a closed-door meeting with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Bayelsa West Senator Seriake Dickson, where he suggested that Wike had pledged to “hold the PDP” for the President.

Responding, Wike dismissed the allegation as misleading and criticised Makinde for what he described as an ill-considered political move.

“It is unfortunate that a fight you cannot sustain, you started. Politics is not contract work,” Wike said.

In a pointed remark widely seen as a jab, he added, “You wanted money; I wanted power. Stay where you are as a contractor.”

Wike further cautioned party members against unnecessary political battles, stressing that success in politics requires strategy, discipline, and loyalty rather than mere rhetoric.

With the PDP’s national convention slated for March 29–30, the minister warned that members who fail to demonstrate commitment to the process risk being excluded from the party’s future structure.

He, however, called for unity and genuine reconciliation within the party, urging stakeholders to put aside personal differences in the interest of strengthening the PDP ahead of future elections.

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Again, EFCC Moves Against Malami As Abuja Property Marked For Forfeiture

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has marked a property in Abuja linked to former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, following an interim forfeiture order granted by a court.

The commission’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said the action was a standard enforcement procedure aimed at notifying the public of the property’s legal status.

According to him, once a court issues an interim forfeiture order, the agency is empowered to identify and mark the affected asset to caution potential buyers or occupants.

He dismissed claims that operatives raided the property, insisting that what occurred was simply the execution of a lawful court directive.

The development comes amid a viral video showing a tense exchange between Malami and EFCC operatives, in which the former minister questioned the legality of the move and demanded to see a specific court order authorising the action.

Malami maintained that the order presented was not directly tied to his property and described the exercise as an attempt to publicly embarrass him, vowing to challenge the action in court.

The incident drew political attention, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar leading a delegation on a solidarity visit to Malami shortly after returning from Saudi Arabia.

Atiku criticised the move, alleging that it reflected a broader pattern of political intimidation under the administration of Bola Tinubu.

He called for the release of detained political figures, including Nasir El-Rufai, warning against the use of state institutions to suppress opposition voices.

Describing the situation as a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism, Atiku argued that targeting opposition figures undermines democratic principles and weakens public trust in governance.

The legal dispute stems from a Federal High Court order earlier this year, which approved the interim forfeiture of multiple properties allegedly linked to Malami and his associates, pending further judicial determination.

Malami has since challenged the forfeiture in court, setting the stage for a protracted legal and political showdown.

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National Convention: PDP Begins Sale Of Nomination Forms

The Peoples Democratic Party has commenced the sale of nomination forms ahead of its much-anticipated national convention, while reaffirming its zoning arrangement as a framework to stabilise the party and ensure balance in leadership positions.

The decision followed the party’s 107th National Executive Committee meeting held in Abuja, where leaders reviewed preparations for the convention scheduled for March 29 and 30.

In a communiqué signed by the Chairman of the PDP National Caretaker Working Committee, Abdulrahman Mohammed, and Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, the party urged all aspirants to strictly adhere to approved guidelines and timelines.

The NEC emphasised that zoning would remain central to the convention, describing it as a critical mechanism for ensuring equity and managing competing regional interests within the party.

Backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, the leadership expressed confidence that the party was regaining stability after months of internal crisis.

Mohammed noted that recent congresses at various levels had recorded significant success, while acknowledging lingering tensions.

He, however, called for unity, stressing that reconciliation efforts were ongoing and inclusive.

“There is no victor and no vanquished—only a shared commitment to rebuild and reposition the party,” he said, urging members to prioritise collective interest over personal ambition.

The upcoming convention, themed around inclusiveness, unity, and renewal, is expected to serve as a defining moment for the PDP as it seeks to rebuild trust and reposition itself as a viable opposition force.

The meeting also highlighted the role of key stakeholders, including former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, who chairs the convention planning committee.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mao Ohuabunwa, described the period as critical to the party’s future, urging members to embrace unity, fairness, and internal democracy.

He also commended the ongoing electronic membership registration, noting that it would enhance transparency and credibility within the party.

Despite the reconciliatory tone, the PDP leadership acknowledged the delicate balance required to manage internal divisions, insisting that unity remains key to its survival and relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

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2027: Kwankwaso Seeks New Political Home With NDC, Kwankwasiyya Movement Confirms

The Kwankwasiyya Movement has confirmed that the National Leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and its 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is currently engaged in high-level talks with the African Democratic Congress and the National Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Spokesperson of the movement, Mansur Kurugu, disclosed this in Kano on Monday, noting that the ongoing consultations could lead to a strategic realignment among the parties.

According to him, no final decision has been reached, but discussions are progressing steadily, with strong indications that a consensus platform will emerge before the next electoral cycle.

“It is true that Kwankwaso is in talks with ADC and NDC. We are optimistic that the leaders involved will eventually agree on a common platform before the 2027 elections,” Kurugu said.

He further revealed that key political figures, including Seriake Dickson, Peter Obi, and Seyi Makinde, are part of the ongoing negotiations, which he described as “significantly advanced.”

Kurugu added that the final decision may see the coalition adopt either ADC, NDC, or even retain the NNPP as its political vehicle.

The talks follow a recent political convergence in Kano, where Kwankwaso hosted Makinde, Obi, and Dickson during a Sallah gathering—an event widely interpreted as a signal of intensifying opposition alignment ahead of 2027.

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Gov Mbah’s Road Revolution: How Enugu Is Rising Into A Modern Urban Hub

By Jeff Ejiofor

When a technocrat assumes a position of leadership, the impact is often visible, measurable, and enduring.

The people of Enugu State can confidently attest to this undeniable reality under the administration of Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, who, in less than three years, has embarked on what can best be described as a bold reinvention of the state’s road infrastructure.

My personal observations across various parts of the state, particularly within the Enugu metropolis, have been both remarkable and heartwarming.

It is evident that this amiable and forward-thinking governor has not only rehabilitated roads that had been abandoned for over five decades but has also restored life and accessibility to them.

Even more impressive is the fact that several areas that had never witnessed asphalt surfacing now boast well-paved roads, complete with smooth finishes and beautifully constructed pedestrian walkways.

A visit to Emene reveals a fascinating and well-coordinated network of access roads. Areas that were once difficult to navigate have now been transformed into easily accessible routes.

I recall with amazement the day I seamlessly connected to the Abakaliki Expressway from the Emenite axis through what used to be an old, nearly forgotten road, now fully rehabilitated What once took considerable time and effort can now be achieved within minutes.

Emene, previously regarded as a suburban outskirt of Enugu, has undergone a significant transformation, courtesy of Governor Mbah’s ongoing road revolution.

In the New Haven area, this transformation is even more pronounced. Almost all previously neglected internal roads have been rehabilitated, complete with proper drainage systems and modern pavements.

The governor has effectively restored the area to its former status as a well-planned urban district, making movement within and around it smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Ogui New Layout stands as another testament to this infrastructural renewal. Nearly all its internal roads have been resurfaced and modernized, creating a cohesive and functional road network.

This transformation extends through Asata and along Ogui Road, where newly paved and rehabilitated roads now define the landscape.

The story remains consistent in Uwani, where extensive road construction and rehabilitation efforts are clearly visible.

From Idaw River through Achara Layout down to Garriki, the same level of attention and execution is evident, further underscoring the administration’s commitment to equitable infrastructural development across the city.

Abakpa, Trans Ekulu, and Thinker’s Corner have not been left behind. In Abakpa, roads that had been forgotten for over 50 years have been revived and made fully functional once again.

Areas around Ogwuagor, Ugboezeji, and Abakpa Housing Estate are now easily accessible. Trans Ekulu, which had long suffered neglect, has been revitalized, including roads leading to and around Timber Market. Today, Thinker’s Corner is fast evolving into a mini-city within Enugu, driven largely by this ongoing street road revolution.

Independence Layout, widely regarded as the pride of Enugu, is also experiencing extensive upgrades. Its internal roads are being transformed into neatly paved, modern streets.

Even the Independence Layout Extension is undergoing a remarkable facelift, steadily evolving into a well-structured urban environment designed for the comfort and convenience of residents.

The Government Reserved Area (GRA) arguably stands out as one of the most transformed zones. I was particularly astonished during a recent visit to areas behind the Road Safety Zonal Office, where every road has been reconstructed with high-quality asphalt and proper drainage systems.

The level of detail and execution is commendable and speaks volumes about the administration’s infrastructural priorities. Indeed, what I witnessed compelled me to regard Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah as one of the most outstanding performers in road infrastructure development.

In conclusion, all indicators point to the fact that Enugu State is fortunate to have a technocrat at the helm of affairs at this critical time.

I am confident that if given the opportunity to fully execute his vision, Enugu will emerge as one of the leading states in Nigeria in terms of road network and infrastructural excellence, second perhaps only to Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.

May I seize this opportunity to assure Your Excellency of our unwavering and unalloyed support. We stand firmly behind you as you continue to reposition Enugu State for greater development.

Tomorrow is indeed here.

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2027: Win Without Governors, Stop The Panic – Wike To PDP Leaders

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain confident ahead of the 2027 general elections, dismissing fears that the absence of PDP governors in some states could weaken their chances.

Speaking during the party’s 107th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, Wike told aspirants not to be intimidated by political realities in their states, insisting that electoral victory is not solely dependent on having a sitting governor.

He maintained that party members must shed fear and embrace confidence, stressing that the notion that candidates cannot win without a PDP governor is misleading.

The former Rivers State governor also reaffirmed that the party’s national convention scheduled for March 29 and 30, 2026, would proceed as planned, noting that all necessary arrangements had been concluded.

He expressed optimism that several defected members would return to the party in the coming days.

On internal reconciliation, Wike called on the party leadership to intensify efforts to reunite aggrieved members, emphasizing that the process must be genuine and not driven by personal ambition.

He added that members must demonstrate commitment before the convention or risk being sidelined.

Taking a swipe at some party figures, including Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, Wike criticized those who had accused him of working for the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that many of them have since defected.

He lamented the shrinking number of PDP governors, blaming internal weaknesses and political defeats, but insisted that quality leadership matters more than numbers.

Wike concluded by reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, declaring that he would not abandon the party and would continue to support reconciliation efforts even after the convention.

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ICPC To Arraign El-Rufai Tuesday Over Alleged Fraud, Money Laundering

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has concluded arrangements to arraign former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, alongside one Joel Adoga, before the Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

The Commission disclosed this on Monday in a statement issued by its Head of Media and Public Communications, John Okor Odey.

According to the statement, the suit, marked FHC/KD/73/2026, borders on allegations including conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering.

IICPC further revealed that a separate charge involving El-Rufa’i and one Amadu Sule of the Kaduna State Livestock Development Agency (LEDA) has been filed before the Kaduna State High Court.

The state case, referenced KDH/KAD/ICPC/01/26, reportedly contains allegations ranging from abuse of office and fraud to intent to commit fraud and conferring undue advantage. Both charges were filed on March 18, 2026.

While the date for arraignment at the State High Court is yet to be fixed, the Commission confirmed that El-Rufa’i has been duly served.

Reaffirming its stance, the ICPC emphasized its commitment to due process and strict adherence to the rule of law.

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Gov. Mbah Charges Enugu Directors To Drive Innovation, Deliver Results In Reformed Civil Service

The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has challenged senior civil servants to sustain the state’s wave of disruptive innovations and ensure result-oriented governance across all sectors.

The governor gave the charge in Enugu while declaring open a three-day capacity-building workshop for Directors and Deputy Directors in the state civil service.

The training, themed “Fiscal Stewardship, Strategic Oversight, and Institutional Integrity in the Era of Disruptive Innovation,” is aimed at strengthening leadership and accountability within the system.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Ifeanyi Ossai, Mbah emphasised the need for top-level bureaucrats to fully understand and internalise the government’s evolving policies and reforms.

He noted that embracing innovation, particularly through e-governance, is critical to improving service delivery, transparency, and efficiency.

According to him, the administration has undertaken sweeping reforms across the state and requires the full cooperation of civil servants to effectively communicate and implement its programmes.

Mbah stressed that the ongoing overhaul of the civil service is designed to boost productivity and ensure sustainable economic growth, adding that adopting data-driven decision-making and modern technology would yield better governance outcomes.

In his remarks, the Head of Service, Godwin Anigbo, described the workshop as a strategic initiative to align the civil service with the administration’s innovation-driven agenda.

He highlighted ongoing efforts to transform the system into a transparent, agile, and technology-powered institution.

Participants at the workshop also commended the initiative. Mr Robinson Ezea, Director of Administration at the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, said improved productivity would strengthen the case for better welfare for workers and support the state’s ambition of growing its economy to $30 billion.

Similarly, Juliet Okonkwo, Director of Legal at the Ministry of Justice, applauded the government’s commitment to continuous training, especially in digital skills and e-governance.

The workshop, organised by the Enugu State Government through the Office of the Head of Service in collaboration with Citihoms Finance Ltd, underscores ongoing efforts to reposition the civil service as a key driver of development in the state.

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Soludo Reshuffles Team, Appoints Key Aides To Drive Governance Agenda

The Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, has approved a fresh round of strategic appointments into key positions within his administration, reinforcing his governance structure.

The appointments, which cut across principal secretaries, special advisers, and top administrative roles, were announced in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.

Among those appointed are Mrs Ngozi Iwouno as Head of Service, Joachim Anetoh as Principal Secretary to the Governor, and Dr Ben Nwankwo as Chief of Staff.

Also named is Prof. Frank-Collins Okafor as State Chief of Protocol.

Other notable appointments include Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN) as Attorney-General, Christian Aburime as Chief Press Secretary, Dr Vincent Okechi as Deputy Chief of Staff, and Ms Ngozi Okoye as Deputy State Chief of Protocol.

The governor also named several special advisers to strengthen policy implementation across critical sectors.

These include Dr Godwin Nnadozie (Medicals and Pharmaceuticals), Ms Chinwe Okoli (Innovation and Business Incubation/CEO, Solution Innovation District), Prof. Ebuka Nwankwo (Special Projects and Project Monitoring), and Ken Emeakayi (Community Security).

The latest appointments follow an earlier decision by the governor to appoint Mrs Chiamaka Nnake as Secretary to the State Government, further consolidating his administrative team.

The move is seen as part of Soludo’s ongoing effort to reposition governance and accelerate development initiatives across Anambra State.

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Relief For South-East Motorists As Umahi Orders Opening Of Enugu–Onitsha Expressway Section

 

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed that a completed 15-kilometre stretch of the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway be opened to traffic on or before March 31, in a move aimed at easing long-standing transportation challenges in the South-East.

Speaking during an inspection of the project, Umahi described the highway as a critical economic corridor that has for years been associated with heavy traffic congestion and frequent accidents.

He noted that the ongoing reconstruction forms part of the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure drive, adding that the road spans a total of 107 kilometres on each carriageway, amounting to 214 kilometres.

The minister reiterated his preference for concrete pavement over asphalt, stressing that it offers greater durability and long-term value.

According to him, at least half of the road will be constructed using concrete to ensure resilience.
Umahi also revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights along the corridor, beginning with the initial 15-kilometre stretch to be opened.

He issued a firm directive to engineers to make the road accessible before the end of March, regardless of pending finishing touches such as lane markings or median barriers, describing the move as a form of “Easter relief” for road users.

The project has also received support from Peter Mbah, who facilitated the payment of compensation and relocation of utilities along the route.

While acknowledging that funding delays have slowed progress, Umahi expressed confidence that work would accelerate once contractors receive payments.

Officials from the Federal Ministry of Works confirmed that the 15-kilometre section, located around the Akama axis, is nearly complete and already being used by some motorists, with final adjustments ongoing to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.

The development signals renewed efforts to improve connectivity and boost economic activities across the South-East region.

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