A leading figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stated that the Obidient movement will play a defining role in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, emphasizing the growing influence of its members within the ADC’s leadership.

Speaking during an appearance on Arise Television on Friday, Chille Igbawua, a prominent chieftain of the ADC, addressed growing speculation about the role of Peter Obi and the Obidient movement in future political realignments.

“People think they [the Obidients] stand apart, but many of them are already embedded in the leadership structure of the ADC,” Igbawua said.

“We absolutely need their energy and commitment going into 2027.”

Igbawua dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), was detached from the movement or the broader political coalition in which the ADC plays a key role.

“Peter Obi has been actively involved in the coalition’s activities since the beginning. He participated in forming the reconstituted National Working Committee and National Executive Council,” he explained.

He further noted that while some comments made by self-identified Obidients might not reflect Obi’s views, the former governor remains deeply engaged and aligned with the coalition’s vision.

Commenting on the internal crisis within the Labour Party, Igbawua acknowledged that the factional split has also created some divisions within the Obidient movement.

However, he clarified that those loyal to Peter Obi remain aligned with the ADC-led coalition.

“Even the national chairman of the Labour Party attends coalition meetings with us, alongside Peter Obi. That shows where the alignment lies,” he said.

He stressed that Obi’s own words and presence speak louder than external narratives.

“I’ve heard him say both in public statements and at our meetings that he is committed not just to seeking office, but to rescuing Nigeria. I believe what Peter Obi says and does not rumours spread by people from past campaigns,” Igbawua added.

Looking ahead, Igbawua revealed that the coalition is laying the groundwork for governance, not just electioneering.

“We are developing a realistic manifesto, building a functional constitution for our party, and crafting a policy blueprint for an ADC-led government. When we win, we won’t be figuring things out, we’ll be ready from day one.”

While specific strategies remain confidential, he affirmed that the coalition understands what it takes to win elections and govern effectively.

“Our focus is not just on the presidency. It’s about building a credible, accountable political alternative that can truly transform Nigeria,” he said.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, has been conferred with Honorary Citizenship of the State of Georgia, USA, in recognition of his participation in key events during the Black Congressional Week in Washington, D.C.

The honour was bestowed following a series of high-level engagements, particularly focused on Georgia State, where Obi participated in discussions around democratic development and energy partnerships in Africa.

During the week, Obi joined U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock at a reception hosted in the Kennedy Caucus Room of the U.S Senate, as part of the Congressional Black Caucus Week.

The dialogue focused on the future of democratic governance in Africa. According to Obi, Senator Warnock encouraged continued conversations on strengthening institutions and leadership on the continent.

As part of his engagements, the former Anambra State Governor met with Ms Kim Clark, CEO of Georgia Power, one of the U.S’s largest electricity providers with a capacity exceeding 20,000 megawatts.

Obi described the meeting as “deeply insightful,” emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy partnerships for Africa’s economic transformation.

Obi also delivered remarks at the One Voice Africa forum, a platform advocating for the dignity of Black immigrants.

In his address, he called for greater advocacy for transparent governance in Africa, highlighting the continent’s untapped potential under effective leadership.

The week concluded with the State of Georgia awarding him Honorary Citizenship, a gesture Obi described as “encouraging and symbolic,” reinforcing his resolve to remain committed to the ideals of good governance and national development.

“This recognition strengthens my resolve to continue learning, serving, and working towards a new Nigeria that is not only possible but within reach,” he said.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has revealed that the most painful experience of his tenure has been the loss of his wife, describing it as a tragedy that overshadows any accomplishment in office.

Speaking during an interview with Arise TV, Governor Eno became emotional as he recounted the passing of his wife, Patience Umo Eno, who died on September 26, 2024, after a brief illness.

“It’s painful. I wish she was here with me right now. Sometimes it’s tough,” he said, expressing the deep personal impact of her death.

Until her passing, Patience Eno served as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, where she was known for her compassion and commitment to charitable causes, particularly in support of women and children.

Her death drew widespread mourning, with politicians, religious leaders, and citizens paying tribute to her legacy of kindness and humility.

Despite the emotional toll, Governor Eno said he finds strength in the positive impact his administration is making, particularly in the lives of the less privileged.

“Two projects stand clearly for me,” he explained. “We have the Arise Compassionate Homes for indigent people. You need to see where these people used to live before now. And then now they can have a place they call home.”

He said the state government has already completed 267 out of 500 planned housing units, with one home designated for each ward across the state.

Governor Eno also spoke passionately about his administration’s efforts to empower young people through entrepreneurship and skills development, which he said is critical for long-term economic growth.

“This is how to stimulate the economy, training entrepreneurs and giving a helping hand to these young men and women,” he said.

“Coming from a business background myself, I understand the value of equipping youths with the right tools and mindset for success.”

Governor Eno emphasized that while development projects are important, the emotional connections formed with the people and the ability to transform lives in underserved communities remain the most meaningful part of his leadership journey.

The newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant the long-standing request of the Ibadan people by creating Ibadan State out of the present Oyo State.

Oba Ladoja made the call on Friday in Ibadan, shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

“My people sent me a message to Mr. President. Mr. President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority,” the monarch declared.

He urged President Tinubu to fulfill this request before the end of his administration in 2027, describing the creation of Ibadan State as a matter of regional pride and importance to his people.

Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, pledged to serve the people of Ibadan diligently.

He promised to focus on job creation for youths and push forward an urban renewal agenda aimed at transforming Ibadan into a more modern and inclusive city.

Speaking at the coronation ceremony, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed joy over the successful installation of the new monarch, noting that the event was a moment of pride and cultural unity for the people of Ibadanland.

“It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland,” Makinde said.

He lauded the peaceful and well-structured succession process that led to Ladoja’s ascension to the throne.

“The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions. The succession process to the throne of Olubadan is now well established and free from contestation, and this is a source of pride for us all,” the governor added.

Makinde expressed hope that Oba Ladoja’s reign would bring lasting peace, unity, and development to Ibadanland and Oyo State at large.

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has been honoured with three international awards at the 2025 Global Power Forum in New York, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

In a statement released Friday by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Soludo was announced as the recipient of the following honors:

– African Public Service Excellence Award

– African Governor of the Year Award

– Certificate of Special Recognition from the House of Representatives of South Carolina, USA

According to Aburime, these accolades recognize Governor Soludo’s distinguished leadership, his commitment to public service, and Anambra State’s growing global reputation.

“The South Carolina House of Representatives commended Gov. Soludo for his outstanding career and service,” Aburime stated.

The official citation highlighted Soludo’s academic and professional achievements, including his past roles as Renowned Professor of Economics, Former Chief Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The House also acknowledged Soludo’s pivotal role in strengthening Nigeria’s financial system and his contributions to positioning Nigeria as a major economic force in Africa.

At the high-profile forum, Governor Soludo also delivered a keynote address titled:

“Africa Unleashed: Navigating the Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities, The Anambra State Example”

In his speech, Soludo showcased Anambra State’s ongoing reforms aimed at transforming it into a hub for innovation and sustainable development, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa and the Caribbean.