Anthony Osarobo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the Ovia South West Local Government chairmanship election, has emerged as the youngest chairman-elect in Edo State after securing victory in Saturday’s local government polls.

Osarobo, 30, defeated candidates from 11 other political parties after polling 98,994 votes in the election conducted by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC).

Announcing the result at the local government collation centre, the Returning Officer, Dr. Arodoye Nosakhare, declared the APC candidate winner, stating that he secured the highest number of valid votes cast.

“After the collation of results across the various political parties, the APC chairmanship candidate, having scored the majority of valid votes, is hereby returned elected,” Nosakhare announced.

Official results showed that the APC recorded a commanding lead over other political parties.

The Allied Party secured 28 votes, Action Alliance 42, African Action Congress 32, Action Democratic Party 26, All Progressives Grand Alliance 25, Allied People’s Movement five, Action People’s Party 12, while the New Nigeria People’s Party, Peoples Redemption Party and Young Progressives Party each polled one vote.

The Zenith Labour Party recorded 15 votes.

Speaking after his victory, Osarobo expressed gratitude to the people of Ovia South West for their overwhelming support, promising to justify the confidence reposed in him.

“I am happy to have emerged as the Chairman-elect of Ovia South West. I do not take this victory for granted because it was made possible by the support and confidence reposed in me by the people.

“I will use this mandate to work tirelessly for the development and progress of Ovia South West,” he said.

The Edo State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Prof. Ikponmwonsa Omorodion, congratulated the chairman-elect, describing the election as peaceful and transparent.

He expressed optimism that Osarobo would deliver on his campaign promises.

Meanwhile, results from other local government areas were still being collated as voters across Edo State elected chairmen and councillors in the state’s 18 local government areas.

Governor Monday Okpebholo, who cast his vote at Ward 2, Udomi Primary School in Esan Central Local Government Area, commended the peaceful conduct of the election and praised the turnout of voters.

“The turnout was very high. This is a demonstration of grassroots democracy. It shows that our people are interested in choosing those who will administer the affairs of their local governments. By the grace of God, a winner will emerge at the end of today’s election,” the governor said.

INEC National Chairman, Prof. Amupitan 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed that only candidates who emerged from duly conducted and officially monitored party primaries will be recognised for the 2027 general elections.

The commission also maintained that it would not extend the deadline for the submission of presidential and National Assembly candidates, insisting that political parties must comply strictly with the provisions of the Electoral Act and its electoral guidelines.

INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed this while giving an update on the ongoing submission of candidates through the commission’s nomination portal.

According to him, the commission’s portal is programmed to reject the names of candidates who did not emerge from party primaries monitored by INEC, stressing that the integrity of the nomination process would not be compromised.

“The portal will not accept names that are different from those who emerged from duly monitored primaries. Only candidates validly nominated in accordance with the Electoral Act and INEC regulations will be recognised,” Haruna said.

He explained that although some political parties experienced challenges during the submission process, the commission would only entertain requests for substitution where they strictly comply with the procedures outlined in the Electoral Act and the electoral timetable.

Haruna further clarified that while there is a legal window for the substitution of candidates, such requests would be subjected to careful scrutiny to ensure they are not used to circumvent the law or replace candidates who did not emerge through valid party primaries.

The INEC commissioner reiterated the commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent, credible and lawful electoral process, assuring Nigerians that every political party would be treated fairly but in accordance with the law.

He emphasised that adherence to due process remains essential to preserving the credibility of the 2027 general elections and maintaining public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) successfully submitted the names of its presidential candidate and running mate before the close of nominations for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Saturday, INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, stated that the commission would not extend the deadline for the submission of presidential and National Assembly candidates, insisting that July 11 remained the final date approved in the electoral timetable.

According to Haruna, 14 political parties had uploaded candidates through the commission’s nomination portal before the deadline.

They include the Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Congress (APC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Labour Party (LP), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), National Rescue Movement (NRM), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

He further disclosed that only nine political parties had completed the submission of their presidential candidates and running mates as of Saturday evening.

Those parties are AA, AAC, ADC, APC, NDC, PRP, SDP, YPP, and ZLP.

Haruna explained that while some political parties had yet to conclude the upload of all National Assembly candidates, the commission would not shift the deadline.

He noted that political parties experiencing challenges may still utilise the substitution window provided under the Electoral Act, subject to strict compliance with the commission’s guidelines.

The INEC commissioner also clarified that failure to complete uploads before the deadline does not automatically exclude a political party from participating in the elections, provided any subsequent substitutions follow the procedures laid down by law.

Meanwhile, the Young Progressives Party (YPP) appealed to INEC to extend the submission deadline, citing technical challenges encountered on the commission’s nomination portal.

However, the electoral body maintained that the timetable would remain unchanged.

Similarly, civil society organisation Women Arise opposed any extension, arguing that political parties were given sufficient time to conduct their primaries and submit candidates in line with the electoral timetable.

INEC reiterated its commitment to a transparent and credible electoral process, stressing that only candidates who emerged from duly monitored party primaries and whose nominations comply with the Electoral Act would be accepted for the 2027 general elections.

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for greater unity among progressive political leaders and urging the South-East to adopt a more strategic approach to national politics.

Soludo made the remarks on Monday during a political rally in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, where political stakeholders gathered to endorse President Tinubu’s leadership and vision for the country.

Speaking before a large crowd of supporters, the governor described his presence at the event as a solidarity visit and a demonstration of the growing cooperation among progressive political forces across Nigeria.

The position was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime.

Standing alongside Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, Soludo praised his host and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening partnerships aimed at promoting development, stability and national unity.

He noted that progressive leaders must work together to address the country’s challenges and accelerate economic growth, insisting that collaboration remains the most effective path to national progress.

According to him, the endorsement rally symbolised a broader effort by progressive-minded leaders to build consensus around policies capable of improving the welfare of Nigerians.

While acknowledging existing economic and social difficulties facing the nation, Soludo expressed confidence that ongoing reforms by the Federal Government would ultimately yield positive outcomes.

The governor also hinted that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) would soon articulate its position on deeper collaboration with other progressive political interests in the country.

Addressing the Igbo people directly, Soludo called for a shift from what he described as politics driven by grievances to a politics centred on engagement, partnership and opportunity.

He urged Ndigbo to embrace strategic alliances capable of advancing the region’s economic and political interests, stressing that political relevance is achieved through active participation and constructive engagement.

According to him, the South-East must position itself to take advantage of emerging opportunities by fostering unity and aligning with broader national development objectives.

…Urges ENSIEC To Sustain Level Playing Field Ahead Of September Elections

The Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), led by Dr. Johnpaul Anih, has announced the successful screening of all its candidates by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) ahead of the September 26 Local Government Elections.

Speaking with journalists in Enugu on Monday, Dr. Anih disclosed that the party has fielded over 14 chairmanship candidates and more than 210 councillorship candidates across the state.

He stated that the party’s electioneering strategies are already in full swing, describing the forthcoming local government elections as a significant test of the political mood in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Anih commended ENSIEC for its commitment to fairness, transparency and inclusiveness throughout the screening exercise, while warning that any attempt to compromise the integrity of the electoral process would be resisted through legitimate and democratic means.

“We are encouraged by the professionalism and transparency demonstrated by ENSIEC throughout the screening process. The commission has so far provided a level playing field for all participating political parties, and we urge it to sustain this approach until the conclusion of the elections.

“However, we wish to make it clear that any attempt by individuals or groups to manipulate the process will be strongly resisted through lawful means. The credibility of the September 26 election will serve as a major indicator of the state’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections,” he said.

The NDC Chairman further noted that the party conducted one of the most credible and transparent primary elections in the state, duly monitored by ENSIEC and relevant security agencies, resulting in the emergence of competent candidates with the capacity to provide effective leadership at the grassroots.

“Our candidates emerged through a transparent and credible process that reflected the wishes of party members. We are confident that they possess the competence, integrity, and grassroots support needed to provide quality leadership across the local government areas.

“Given a free, fair and credible election, we are confident that our candidates will perform exceptionally well and earn the mandate of the people,” he added.

Also speaking, the State Secretary of the party, Dr. Sebastine Chukwuebuka Okafor, expressed confidence that the NDC would record a strong performance in the September elections if the process remains free from manipulation and electoral malpractice.

According to him, the party’s candidates are individuals with proven records of service and community engagement in their respective local government areas and wards.

“All the candidates presented by our party have demonstrated commitment to grassroots development and community service. Their emergence has already generated excitement among the electorate and reinforced the belief that credible alternatives exist,” he stated.

Dr. Okafor maintained that many residents of Enugu State are eager for a new political direction anchored on accountability, effective representation, and people-centred governance.

He also commended ENSIEC for providing a fair environment for all political parties to participate in the electoral process, noting that such conduct, if sustained, would strengthen public confidence in the state’s electoral system.

The NDC Secretary further called on the people of Enugu State to continue supporting the party’s vision for grassroots transformation.

“The NDC remains committed to ending poor representation, unfulfilled promises, and ineffective grassroots governance. We are offering a platform built on accountability, development, and people-oriented leadership.

“We urge Ndi Enugu to support our candidates and join us in building local governments that truly serve the interests of the people,” he concluded.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected the judgment of a Federal High Court in Abuja directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the party and four others, describing the decision as a grave threat to Nigeria’s democratic order.

Justice Peter Lifu, in a ruling delivered on Monday, ordered the deregistration of the ADC, Accord Party, Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) for allegedly failing to satisfy constitutional electoral performance requirements as stipulated under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.

The suit was instituted by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which argued that political parties that fail to meet prescribed electoral benchmarks should not remain on the register of political parties maintained by INEC.

Reacting to the judgment, the ADC, in a statement titled “You Are Playing With Fire,” described the verdict as unconstitutional and inconsistent with both established legal principles and the position previously taken by the electoral commission before the court.

The party maintained that INEC had clearly informed the court that the ADC remained compliant with all registration requirements and had not breached any constitutional provision that could warrant deregistration.

According to the party, the commission had affirmed that no legal basis existed for its removal from the register of political parties and that deregistration must be guided strictly by constitutional provisions rather than political considerations.

The ADC further questioned the validity of the proceedings, alleging that the trial court continued with the matter despite a subsisting Court of Appeal order issued on May 22, 2026, directing a stay of proceedings.

Describing the development as politically motivated, the party alleged that the judgment was part of a broader effort to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The ADC noted that the ruling came shortly after it concluded its party primaries and commenced preparations for the next electoral cycle, including the presidential election.

Warning against the consequences of shrinking the democratic space, the party argued that the matter extends beyond its own political survival and touches on the broader issue of electoral choice and democratic participation for millions of Nigerians.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing all available legal remedies, stating that it would challenge the judgment at the appellate courts while mobilising democratic stakeholders in defence of constitutional governance.

The ADC also disclosed plans to petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) over what it described as judicial misconduct in the handling of the matter.

While urging its members, supporters and coalition partners to remain calm and law-abiding, the party expressed confidence that the ruling would be overturned and insisted that it would remain an active participant in the 2027 electoral process.

The party maintained that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected from actions capable of limiting political competition, insisting that it would continue to defend the rights of its members and supporters through lawful means.

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties for failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.

Delivering judgment on Monday, Justice Peter Lifu held that the affected parties failed to secure the minimum electoral performance threshold prescribed by law, particularly the requirement to obtain at least 25 per cent of votes in relevant elections.

The parties affected by the ruling are the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

The court further directed INEC not to allow the parties to participate in future elections, including the 2027 General Elections, having failed to satisfy the constitutional conditions necessary for their continued existence as political parties.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, was instituted by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators, which challenged the legal status of the parties based on their electoral performance.

The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and INEC were also joined as defendants in the matter.

The plaintiff argued that the affected parties had failed to meet constitutional requirements relating to electoral spread and performance and therefore no longer qualified to remain registered political parties under Nigerian law.

Justice Lifu dismissed the preliminary objections raised by the defendants before granting the reliefs sought by the plaintiff, effectively paving the way for their deregistration.

Proceedings in the alleged corruption case involving former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, were on Monday stalled following the absence of two co-defendants before a Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna.

El-Rufai, who is facing charges bordering on alleged abuse of office, fraud, and financial misconduct instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), was present in court for the scheduled hearing.

The former governor arrived at the court premises alongside officials of the ICPC, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and police personnel.

However, the matter could not proceed as planned after two co-defendants failed to appear before the court, prompting the presiding judge to adjourn the case.

The court subsequently fixed June 28, 2026, for the commencement of hearing in the matter.
El-Rufai has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence against the allegations.

Prosecutors, on their part, contend that public funds were unlawfully disbursed for projects allegedly either abandoned, unexecuted, or improperly managed during his administration as governor of Kaduna State.

The case is expected to resume later this month as the court moves to begin substantive hearing on the charges.