A new certificate forgery scandal has surfaced within the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), just weeks after the resignation of former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, over similar allegations.

This time, the spotlight is on Mr. Nwankwoeze Williamson Chijioke, a senior official serving as the Director of Lands in the Mass Housing Department of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

He is accused of forging his academic qualifications to gain entry into the civil service and rise through its ranks.

At the centre of the controversy is an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) certificate allegedly issued by Kwara State Polytechnic, which Chijioke purportedly used to gain admission into the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, where he later earned a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Architectural Technology.

That HND reportedly paved the way for further academic pursuits, including degrees from the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, and a master’s degree, all of which helped propel him to a top leadership role in the FCDA.

However, a letter dated March 12, 2025, signed by Ibrahim Eletu Saka, the Deputy Registrar (Examinations and Records) of Kwara State Polytechnic, states that the OND certificate did not originate from the institution.

“The statement of result did not emanate from the school,” the letter reads, declaring the document fake.

Following this revelation, a civil society group, the Dependable Patriots for Nation Building and Transformation Initiative (DPNBTI) petitioned multiple government agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, and the Presidency.

“Our investigation revealed that Nwankwoeze Chijioke used a forged statement of result dated January 16, 1997, purportedly issued by Kwara State Polytechnic, to secure admission into Oko Polytechnic and later employment in the civil service,” the group stated.

“The institution has disowned the document in its official letter dated March 12, 2025.”

Despite the weight of the evidence, insiders report that no formal investigation or disciplinary action has been taken against Chijioke, several months after the petitions were submitted.

Frustrated by the inaction, DPNBTI filed a legal case at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on September 23, 2025, seeking to compel the authorities to act.

The case, filed as Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/2050/2025, requests an Order of Mandamus directing the Inspector-General of Police and the Nigeria Police Force to immediately investigate and prosecute Chijioke.

The group’s legal team also requested substituted service, citing the accused’s refusal to respond to official communications.

“This is a test of institutional accountability,” the group’s lawyer declared.

“When clear evidence of forgery is ignored, it weakens public confidence in the system.”

The case has now been assigned to a trial judge for hearing.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has declared that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is on track to control 30 states across Nigeria by 2026, citing a rising trend of defections from opposition parties to the APC.

Idris made this bold projection on Wednesday while addressing the 2025 Quarterly Strategy Meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) in Maiduguri, Borno State.

The event, themed “FGN–PGF Synergy 2025: One Message, One Future,” brought together Commissioners for Information from APC-governed states to strengthen federal-state communication and policy alignment.

“Currently, the APC governs 24 states. With the growing interest from opposition governors to join us, I am confident that by 2026, the APC will control 30 states,” Idris stated.

“This momentum reflects Nigerians’ increasing trust in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and the success of his Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The Minister attributed the political shift to the President’s inclusive governance style, efforts to stabilise the economy, and improved investor confidence.

He emphasized that these gains are encouraging opposition leaders to switch allegiance to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, where Tinubu is expected to seek a second term.

Idris also praised security efforts in the North-East, crediting the military and other agencies for restoring relative peace in the region.

He specifically lauded Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State for his administration’s reconstruction and resilience programs.

“Borno is Nigeria’s most resilient state. Despite years of insurgency, it continues to rebuild stronger. The people and leadership deserve commendation,” he said.

Also speaking at the meeting, Folorunso S. Aluko, Director-General of the Progressive Governors Forum, highlighted the Forum’s ongoing Value Reorientation Campaign, aimed at enhancing civic responsibility and trust in APC-led states.

“Our Information Commissioners play a key role in harmonising our messaging, promoting transparency, and showcasing the achievements of APC state governments,” Aluko noted.

The host governor, Babagana Zulum, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Umar Kadafur, welcomed participants and emphasized the symbolic importance of Borno as the meeting venue.

He outlined the state’s ambitious 25-Year Development Plan and 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative, which he described as blueprints for inclusive growth, long-term stability, and prosperity.

“Our story is one of recovery and renewed hope, from rebuilding schools and communities to revitalising agriculture and infrastructure,” Zulum said.

The strategy meeting concluded with a guided tour of federal and state development projects in Maiduguri.

Key sites visited include University of Maiduguri Solar Power Plant, Muhammadu Buhari International Airport upgrade, Maiduguri Mega Power Plant, Tinubu Mega School as well as Newly constructed flyovers at Customs, West End and Borno Express.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticized the recent defections of two state governors to the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of orchestrating a deliberate plan to turn Nigeria into a one-party state.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the moves by the governors of Enugu and Bayelsa as a betrayal of public trust and a dangerous shift toward authoritarian governance.

“These defections are not mere political decisions, they are part of a calculated strategy by President Bola Tinubu and the APC to silence opposition and consolidate absolute power,” the statement read.

According to the ADC, these developments are clear signs that the 2027 elections will no longer be a traditional political contest but a struggle between ordinary Nigerians and what the party called “a political cabal that has plunged the country into hardship and insecurity.”

“These governors are not joining the APC because of shared ideology or public interest. They are abandoning their people to align with a ruling party responsible for daily suffering, from economic decline and corruption to insecurity and poor governance.”

The ADC said Nigerians are now more aware than ever, highlighting that even past supporters of the APC have grown disillusioned.

“Those who once campaigned for the APC or proudly displayed its logo are now distancing themselves from it. This administration has failed to deliver on basic governance, from safety and jobs to healthcare and integrity in leadership,” the party noted.

The ADC lamented the role of the opposition being weakened by defections, saying that in a functioning democracy, the opposition serves as a critical watchdog and voice for the people.

“Nigerians expected these governors to stand firm in the face of misrule. Instead, they’ve joined forces with those causing the country’s decline. This is political apostasy of historic proportions,” Abdullahi stated.

Despite the defections, the ADC insisted that the line has now been clearly drawn between those genuinely fighting for national progress and those driven by self-interest.

“If anything, these defections have clarified who stands with the people and who’s only in it for personal gain. The APC may celebrate now, but Nigerians are watching and they are taking notes,” the party warned.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the ADC vowed to stand firm with the people, describing the coming election as a defining battle for Nigeria’s future.

“It will be the Nigerian people versus President Tinubu and his political allies. And we’re confident the people will choose justice over greed, and democracy over dictatorship.”

Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a party in irreversible decline, predicting that at least three more governors will soon defect, reducing the party to just five state leaders.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Fayose dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu was behind recent defections from the PDP.

Instead, he blamed internal crises and leadership failures within the party for its current woes.

“President Tinubu should not be blamed for PDP’s problems,” Fayose said.

“The PDP is sick and remains perpetually sick without a cure in view. Those who killed the party know themselves.”

He referenced the recent defections of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to the All Progressives Congress (APC), attributing their exits to personal political calculations, not external pressure from the presidency.

Despite remaining a registered member of the PDP, Fayose made it clear he has no intention of participating in efforts to revive the party, saying:

“I will not be part of any group trying to resuscitate the PDP. The problems of the party are internal and longstanding.”

Fayose hinted that the worst may be yet to come for the PDP, revealing that three more governors are preparing to leave the party.

“Let me tell you, there are three more governors that will leave soon. There will be five remaining. Among the five, one of them will struggle to get the ticket and they all know the ticket is an ordinary tissue paper.”

He also accused PDP leaders of being more interested in controlling the party than saving it, stating that the destructive power tussles from the 2023 general elections continue to plague the party.

“They are killing the party because of selfish interests. It’s no longer about the people or the nation.”

Fayose’s remarks come amid heightened political uncertainty within the PDP following a wave of defections and growing dissatisfaction among stakeholders.

With internal cracks deepening and the 2027 general election approaching, the party faces the challenge of redefining its identity and relevance.

While some members are calling for unity and restructuring, critics like Fayose argue that without a major overhaul and genuine reconciliation, the PDP risks further collapse.

Following the recent defection of Governor Peter Mbah to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has appointed Senator Ben Ndi Obi, CON, as the new Secretary of the party’s 2025 Elective National Convention Organizing Committee (NCOC).

The announcement was made in a statement signed by Debo Ologunagba, PDP’s National Publicity Secretary and Secretary of the NCOC’s Publicity and Communication Sub-Committee.

According to the statement, the National Working Committee (NWC), acting on behalf of the National Executive Committee (NEC), approved the appointment as part of ongoing preparations for the PDP’s National Convention, scheduled to take place November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

“The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party, on behalf of the NEC, has approved the appointment of Senator Ben Ndi Obi as Secretary of the National Convention Organizing Committee,” the statement read.

The party also praised the NCOC, led by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, for its continued efforts and dedication in organizing the upcoming convention, despite recent political shifts within the party.

“The NWC commends the NCOC under the Chairmanship of His Excellency, Governor Fintiri, for its tireless efforts towards the success of the 2025 National Convention,” the statement noted.

The PDP leadership called on its members across the country to remain focused and united in the face of ongoing defections and internal changes.

“The NWC calls on all leaders, critical stakeholders, and teeming members of the PDP to remain united, steadfast, and focused on the successful conduct of the National Convention and the overall progress of our great party,” the statement concluded.

Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State have pledged to rebuild the party following the defection of Governor Peter Mbah to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Mbah, who announced his move on Tuesday, cited what he described as the PDP’s continued marginalisation of the South-East.

However, the decision has sparked mixed reactions across the state, with many questioning the motive behind the switch.

Speaking on a radio programme in Enugu, Dr. Okey Ozoani, former PDP State Youth Leader and Vice Chairman, said the defection could be a blessing in disguise.

“I thank God they’ve left. Now we can rebuild our party,” Ozoani said, urging loyal PDP members to stay calm and resilient. “Good things are coming.”

He questioned whether Mbah’s move would solve real issues facing the state:

“Will defecting reduce taxation in Enugu? This is one of the most expensive and insecure states in Nigeria.”

Former Udi Local Government Chairman and PDP stalwart Nick Ozonsi expressed disappointment, calling for a deeper reform of Nigeria’s political system.

“If you couldn’t fix things in party A, how will you do it in party B?” he asked.

“We must take defections more seriously in this country.”

Other Enugu residents and political observers echoed similar sentiments.

Mr. Nwoke Eze, a loyal PDP supporter, criticized Mbah’s political strategy:

“This is shortsighted. Tinubu didn’t need to join the ruling party to make Lagos work. Why does Mbah think otherwise?”

Alika John described defection after winning office as unethical:

“Politicians shouldn’t use a party to gain office and then dump it. It feels criminal.”

Social commentator Dr. Dele Maxwell warned against personality-driven politics and urged a shift toward ideological consistency:

“We need a system where politicians build parties, not just use them. A party should reflect values, not personal ambition.”

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has dismissed suggestions that recent defections by South-East governors could lead to the region being politically “captured” by any party.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, Obi insisted that Nigeria is a democracy, not a military regime, where voters, not political office holders, ultimately determine electoral outcomes.

“We’re not in a military time when you capture people. In a democracy, leadership is earned through service and persuasion, not by force,” Obi said in a statement issued by his media team.

Obi’s comments come amid the high-profile defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move is seen by some as part of APC’s broader effort to secure the South-East ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s possible 2027 re-election bid.

“Peter Mbah is a good friend of mine. I believe he made his decision based on his own political judgment,” Obi said.

“But no party can automatically win a state just because it has the governor. The people will ultimately decide.”

Obi urged the government to earn the people’s support through performance and policies, not political maneuvering.

Reacting to the planned protest by activist Omoyele Sowore for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Obi reiterated his long-standing position.

“There was no need for his arrest in the first place. I’ve always advocated dialogue, negotiation, and consultation with agitators,” he said.

“This has been my stand since before 2020. Let’s follow due process for everyone involved, not just Kanu. Dialogue is always better than force.”

Obi also spoke on the appointment of Prof. Samuel Amupitan as the new chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), expressing hope for credible elections in 2027.

“We want a new Nigeria where elections are free, fair, and credible. The people with competence, capacity, compassion, and character must emerge,” he said.

“Amupitan should remember he won’t be in office forever. His reputation will outlast his position.

Obi made these remarks during a visit to LEA Nursery/Primary School in Kapwa, a suburb of Abuja, where he campaigned alongside Dr. Moses Paul, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chairmanship candidate for Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the February 2026 council elections.

He condemned the poor state of the school, which he described as “shocking,” noting that over 200 pupils attend the school without access to toilets or decent furniture.

“Education is the foundation of any nation. Our children deserve better. I’m committed to helping improve the conditions here,” Obi said.

“That’s why I’m also supporting Dr. Moses Paul. He’s going from community to community to understand their needs.”