The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has officially dismissed the idea of a zoning formula for the 2025 governorship race.

This announcement was made by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Dr. Valentine Iyke-Oliobi, in a statement on Saturday.

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Iyke-Oliobi clarified that the APC has never engaged in any zoning agreements with other parties in the state.

He emphasized that the party prioritizes equal opportunities, allowing any member, regardless of their region, to contest for the party’s ticket.

He stated, “The APC in Anambra State has no zoning formula and has never participated in any such arrangements with other political entities. We ensure every member has the chance to vie for positions without regard to their zone.”

Additionally, the statement disassociated the party from Mr. Pope Amaefuna, who had claimed to be an APC chieftain.

Iyke-Oliobi labeled Amaefuna as potentially a ‘fifth columnist’ attempting to sow discord within the party.

Iyke-Oliobi reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democratic values, asserting that the party’s candidate for the 2025 governorship will be chosen based on popular support.

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“The APC is a progressive party that refuses to limit the democratic process to any particular section of the state,” he noted.

He encouraged aspiring candidates to focus on earning the support of party members, rather than engaging in divisive debates over zoning, which he described as foreign to the APC’s principles.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the recent election, has voiced his support for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Speaking from his residence in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi highlighted the precarious state of Nigeria, urging respect for the rule of law.

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Obi insisted on the immediate release of Kanu, referencing court rulings that had granted him bail.

“There’s no justification for Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing detention,” he remarked, emphasizing that the government must adhere to judicial decisions.

He further called on the federal government to release others detained under similar circumstances, advocating for discussions with these individuals.

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“In a democracy, arbitrary actions are unacceptable,” he stated, urging respect for rights such as peaceful protest and freedom of expression.

Obi expressed concerns over Nigeria’s security issues, noting the government’s primary role in safeguarding lives and property.

He lamented the nation’s rising insecurity, attributing it to poor governance, and called for a collective effort among leaders, particularly in the South East, to address these challenges.

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Reflecting on protests, Obi condemned violent riots but supported peaceful demonstrations, stressing the need for constructive dialogue to address grievances.

Regarding political developments, Obi dismissed the focus on forming a mega party ahead of the 2027 elections, prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians.

He emphasized the importance of addressing issues like food security and poverty alleviation over political maneuvering.

“Our focus should be on improving the lives of Nigerians, not just gaining power,” he concluded.

Former Senate President and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, is reportedly set to switch allegiance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement came from Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, APC Chairman in Ebonyi State, during a rally in Ivo, Anyim’s home area, on Saturday.

Emegha emphasized his personal commitment to convincing Anyim to join the APC, citing Anyim’s extensive experience and leadership capabilities as crucial assets.

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Emegha expressed satisfaction with Anyim’s decision, noting that Anyim’s consent was given for the use of his image at the rally.

“I made it a personal mission to persuade him because the entire southeast cannot effectively negotiate without someone of his stature.”

He continued, “Seeing his image on our APC posters today confirms his involvement, despite his absence due to other commitments. This solidifies his role as an APC member and a key figure within the party.”

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Emegha further stated, “By the 14th of next month, it will be clear that Senator Anyim is not only a significant figure in Ebonyi but throughout the southeast APC.”

Additionally, Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by Deputy Governor Princess Patricia Obila, along with local government Chairman Emmanuel Ajah, addressed the rally, pledging further development and resolving local boundary disputes.

Former First Lady Patience Jonathan has expressed her firm reluctance to return to the Presidential Villa, citing the overwhelming stress associated with being in the spotlight.

During a public event on Friday, Mrs. Jonathan emphatically stated, “If you call me now to the villa, I won’t go there. I won’t. Don’t you see how young I am? The stress is just too much.”

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She went on to reflect on the challenges of Nigeria, remarking, “the stress of Nigeria is so much. If God manages to bring you out of it, you should glorify God and thank him. It is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in our eyes.”

Mrs. Jonathan expressed contentment with her current situation, questioning the desire to return to such a demanding role: “He has taken you there once, why do you want to go there again? Me, I won’t go!”

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Her statements reflect a resolute stance against returning to the pressures of political life, opting instead to focus on gratitude for her past experiences.