The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said Nigeria’s democratic process will remain intact even if the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other parties fail to make it onto the ballot in upcoming elections.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the party dismissed concerns raised by a faction within the ADC over alleged attempts to block its participation, insisting that elections must strictly follow laid-down legal procedures.

The APC emphasised that democracy operates within the framework of laws and institutions, not emotions or political pressure, noting that all parties are required to meet the conditions set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

According to the ruling party, failure to comply with electoral guidelines carries consequences, adding that no political party should expect special treatment.

Drawing from past experiences, the APC recalled its own exclusion from elections in some states during the 2019 general elections due to legal issues, stressing that such outcomes are part of a rules-based system.

The party also criticised the ADC, attributing its current challenges to internal disputes and organisational lapses rather than external interference.

It argued that attempts to blame others were misplaced, describing the situation as a result of self-inflicted problems within the opposition party.

Reaffirming its stance, the APC maintained that the absence of any party from the ballot due to non-compliance would not undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

The party urged political actors to prioritise internal cohesion and adherence to electoral laws, while reiterating its commitment to credible and transparent elections.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for an immediate apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over a controversial comment directed at television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.

In a statement issued by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union expressed strong outrage, describing the minister’s remark as dangerous and capable of undermining press freedom.

The controversy stems from a statement attributed to Wike in which he allegedly said he would have “shot” the journalist if it were possible through the television screen.

The NUJ condemned the comment as a serious threat that could intimidate media professionals and discourage critical reporting.

According to the union, it initially held back its response in anticipation of a retraction or apology. However, the absence of any such move, it said, suggests the comment may have been deliberate rather than a slip.

The NUJ warned that such rhetoric from a high-ranking public official risks creating a hostile environment for journalists and could embolden attacks on the media.

It further urged the Federal Government to publicly denounce the remark and take concrete steps to safeguard journalists and uphold democratic values.

Calling for solidarity, the union appealed to media organisations, civil society groups, and pro-democracy advocates to resist any attempts to silence the press.

Reiterating its position, the NUJ demanded an unreserved apology from Wike, stressing that the safety and independence of journalists are essential to a healthy democracy.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called for an immediate apology from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over a controversial comment directed at television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.

In a statement issued by its National President, Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi, the union expressed strong outrage, describing the minister’s remark as dangerous and capable of undermining press freedom.

The controversy stems from a statement attributed to Wike in which he allegedly said he would have “shot” the journalist if it were possible through the television screen.

The NUJ condemned the comment as a serious threat that could intimidate media professionals and discourage critical reporting.

According to the union, it initially held back its response in anticipation of a retraction or apology. However, the absence of any such move, it said, suggests the comment may have been deliberate rather than a slip.

The NUJ warned that such rhetoric from a high-ranking public official risks creating a hostile environment for journalists and could embolden attacks on the media.

It further urged the Federal Government to publicly denounce the remark and take concrete steps to safeguard journalists and uphold democratic values.

Calling for solidarity, the union appealed to media organisations, civil society groups, and pro-democracy advocates to resist any attempts to silence the press.

Reiterating its position, the NUJ demanded an unreserved apology from Wike, stressing that the safety and independence of journalists are essential to a healthy democracy.

Former Bayelsa State Governor and senator, Seriake Dickson, has rejected allegations questioning the legitimacy of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), describing them as baseless and politically motivated.

Dickson was responding to claims by Umar Ardo, a chieftain of the All Democratic Alliance, who alleged that the party’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not follow due process.

In a statement shared via his official X handle, Dickson expressed disappointment at Ardo’s stance, especially given their long-standing relationship, and accused him of spreading misinformation.

He explained that the NDC’s registration process began as far back as 2017 but was delayed when INEC, under the leadership of Mahmood Yakubu, suspended the registration of new political parties.

According to him, when the process resumed, the commission initially rejected the party’s application over concerns that its proposed logo resembled that of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Despite attempts to address the issue, INEC maintained its position, prompting the party to seek legal redress.

Dickson stated that the court ruled in favour of the NDC, affirming its right to exist and directing INEC to complete its registration.

He noted that the commission complied with the judgment and has not filed any appeal within the stipulated timeframe.

He further revealed that the party has since begun formal activities, including notifying INEC ahead of its National Executive Committee meeting, which the commission reportedly monitored.

While acknowledging that Ardo had faced similar challenges with his own political platform, Dickson said he had advised him to pursue legal action, but insisted that the NDC had no involvement in the issues affecting Ardo’s group.

Emphasising that other political parties have also been registered through court rulings, Dickson questioned why the NDC was being singled out for criticism.

He maintained that there is no legal dispute over the party’s status and warned against the spread of false information, adding that only INEC has the authority to challenge the court-backed registration.

Confident about the party’s prospects, Dickson said the NDC is gaining traction nationwide and remains open to Nigerians seeking a credible alternative political platform.

The Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Muhammad Usman Zuru, has died.

He reportedly passed away in a hospital in Egypt, where he had been undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness.

Sources within the Kebbi State Government revealed that the late lawmaker had been battling health challenges for some time and was flown abroad after his condition deteriorated shortly before the Ramadan fasting period.

Until his death, Zuru represented the Zuru Constituency in the state assembly.

Reacting to the development, an aide to Governor Nasir Idris on Communication and Strategy, Idris Abdullahi Zuru, described the loss as shocking and deeply painful.

He noted that the state government was still gathering full details surrounding the incident and would, in collaboration with the family, announce burial arrangements in due course.

Yusuf Buhari, the only male child of late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has formally declared his intention to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections.

In a letter dated April 3, 2026, Yusuf announced his ambition to represent the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua Federal Constituency in Katsina State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He stated that his decision followed extensive consultations and a desire to contribute to quality leadership and development in the constituency.

Yusuf emphasized that his candidacy would focus on improving infrastructure and supporting human development across the area, while appealing for backing from party stakeholders and constituents.

His declaration comes shortly after APC stakeholders in Sandamu Local Government publicly endorsed him as their preferred candidate.

The endorsement reportedly followed a high-level meeting involving political figures and appointees from across the constituency.

Speaking at the gathering, council chairman Usman Na-Lado described the move as a collective decision, citing Yusuf’s perceived capability and acceptance within party ranks.

Sources within the party further suggested that the endorsement aligns with the position of Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, who is believed to support Yusuf’s candidacy.

The meeting also reaffirmed loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Radda ahead of the 2027 elections.

A coalition of youths in Yobe State has raised ₦188 million in support of a potential 2027 governorship bid by former Senate President, Ahmad Lawan.

The fundraising initiative, organised by the Yobe-East Progressive Youths, was announced in Damaturu by the group’s leader, Dr. Yerima Goni, who said the effort was aimed at promoting civic engagement and encouraging broader participation in the political process.

According to Goni, the funds were generated through a mix of pledges, bank transfers, and cash donations, reflecting strong grassroots support for Lawan’s possible candidacy.

The event drew a large turnout of youths, community leaders, and political stakeholders from across the state, highlighting growing interest in the 2027 governorship race.

Responding to the gesture, Lawan expressed appreciation, describing the support as a sign of responsible citizenship and active public involvement in leadership matters.

While he has yet to formally declare his intention to run, the former Senate President indicated his readiness to answer the call to serve the people if required.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of deliberately attempting to exclude it from participating in the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that INEC is creating “administrative landmines” that could prevent it from fielding candidates.

At the centre of the dispute is INEC’s decision to stop accepting correspondence from the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.

While the commission describes the move as procedural, the ADC argues it could make it impossible for the party to meet key legal deadlines.

According to the party, the Electoral Act 2026 sets strict timelines, including a 21-day notice period for political activities and a May 10 deadline for submissions.

The ADC insists that INEC’s refusal to engage effectively blocks it from complying with these requirements.

The party also pointed to past interactions with INEC, claiming the commission had previously recognised its leadership and monitored its internal processes, including its National Executive Committee meeting that produced new party officials.

Describing the situation as a calculated attempt to force “artificial non-compliance,” the ADC warned that such actions could be used as grounds to disqualify it from the 2027 general elections.

The party has called on INEC to reverse its position and resume normal engagement, warning that the development poses a serious threat to democratic fairness and political inclusion ahead of the 2027 polls.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of deliberately attempting to exclude it from participating in the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that INEC is creating “administrative landmines” that could prevent it from fielding candidates.

At the centre of the dispute is INEC’s decision to stop accepting correspondence from the party pending the outcome of a case before the Federal High Court.

While the commission describes the move as procedural, the ADC argues it could make it impossible for the party to meet key legal deadlines.

According to the party, the Electoral Act 2026 sets strict timelines, including a 21-day notice period for political activities and a May 10 deadline for submissions.

The ADC insists that INEC’s refusal to engage effectively blocks it from complying with these requirements.

The party also pointed to past interactions with INEC, claiming the commission had previously recognised its leadership and monitored its internal processes, including its National Executive Committee meeting that produced new party officials.

Describing the situation as a calculated attempt to force “artificial non-compliance,” the ADC warned that such actions could be used as grounds to disqualify it from the 2027 general elections.

The party has called on INEC to reverse its position and resume normal engagement, warning that the development poses a serious threat to democratic fairness and political inclusion ahead of the 2027 polls.