By Justice Chidi PhD

The government of Enugu State is setting a precedent that is unsettling the old narrative of one thing-at-a- time.

When Governor Mbah said that he was in a hurry to develop Enugu during the presentation of his manifesto at the Peter Mbah auditorium at Godfrey Okoye University Enugu, many thought it was the usual political rhetoric synonymous with politicians.

Time and events have actually proven that Mbah meant his words and wasn’t embarking on mere play on words.

At the heart of this transformation lies Mbah’s refusal to be bound by the incrementalism that has long characterized public sector project delivery.

Rather than subscribing to a linear strategy where one project must end, and reluctantly so,before another begins, the Mbah approach embraces simultaneity.

Roads rise while schools are taking shape; digital infrastructure expands even as healthcare systems are recalibrated.

Simply put, Enugu has become a construction site of ideas translated to concrete realities. Each initiative reinforcing the other in a carefully orchestrated pattern of progress.

We must point out that driving multiple projects at once demands not only resources but also coordination, discipline, and an unwavering clarity of purpose.

It requires a leader willing to stake political capital on the belief that citizens can see beyond temporary disruptions to grasp long-term gains.

In the above sense, Governor Mbah is the man. Ndi Enugu should be broad-minded enough to see the future gains.

For the simpleton, as you would hear a number of them muse while relieving a bottle of beer of its content, the governor should have just renovated the existing school blocks and discarded the idea of smart green schools.

For such thinkers, Enugu is not an institution of higher learning and there was no need for international conference centre; for them, the governor should have left transportation in the hand of private individuals because Enugu citizens have adapted to traumatising journeys.

Some even argue that such velocity risks overextension, that too many moving parts could strain institutional capacity.

Yet, such concerns often underestimate the power of urgency and the audacity of vision. When systems are compelled to operate at higher efficiency, dormant potentials are activated.

Civil servants adapt, contractors innovate, and timelines shrink.

Again, another deeper motivation is the governor’s recognition of the interconnectedness of development. A road is not merely a strip of asphalt; it is an artery for commerce, a bridge between rural productivity and urban markets.

A smart school is not just a building; it is a recalibration of the future workforce. By pursuing multiple projects concurrently, governance becomes holistic rather than fragmented.

Ultimately, Governor Mbah’s vision of multitasking is not merely about speed. He has effectively collapsed the distance between promise and proof. In all honesty, our dear governor should take his flowers.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the postponement of its proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached on Friday, April 10, 2026, following a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), where key electoral matters were reviewed.

In a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC said the postponement was part of its strategic considerations ahead of the next general election cycle.

The Commission explained that the voter revalidation exercise remains a vital component of its constitutional mandate to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters.

According to INEC, the exercise is designed to verify and update existing voter records, ensure the accuracy of personal data, eliminate duplicate and ineligible entries, and strengthen the integrity of the voter register.

INEC further noted that the process would also give registered voters the opportunity to confirm their details and make necessary corrections where required.

Despite the postponement, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections across the country.

People often say that the only constant thing in life is change, and this is clearly seen in the leadership of Barr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

There was a time in Enugu State when politics was largely associated with thuggery and disorder. Many people accepted it as normal. But then, one man stepped in and decided that things could be different. That man is Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

What makes Governor Mbah stand out is his belief that things must work better when the right people are given the right responsibilities.

He understands that when skilled and qualified professionals are put in positions of authority, the results are usually more efficient and meaningful.

Instead of relying on guesswork or favoritism, his approach focuses on competence and accountability.

This mindset is already showing results across the state. From the introduction of smart schools to boost education, to efforts in industrial growth, digital innovation, and improved road infrastructure, there is a visible shift in how things are being done.

These are not just policies on paper but they are changes people can actually see and feel in their daily lives.

When Governor Mbah took office, he had a choice: to continue with the old ways or to do things differently. He chose to make a change. Rather than ignoring the problems, he faced them directly.

One major issue he identified was the loss of government revenue through cash-based transactions. To fix this, he introduced a digital system that made payments more transparent and easier to track.

The keke that used to generate only three million naira monthly can now generate over eight hundred million on monthly basis. What a shift in revenue growth.

This decision made a big difference. By reducing leakages and ensuring accountability, the state began to generate more revenue. Today, Enugu is recognized as one of the fastest-growing states in terms of internally generated revenue. This shows what can happen when practical solutions are applied to real problems. Enugu can now have more resources to invest in airline businesses which also has the capacity to create additional jobs for the growing population. This has ensured the road infrastructure is being taken care of. Things don’t just change, this is a result of creative leadership.

Another important aspect of Governor Mbah’s leadership is his focus on the future. He is not just interested in quick results; he wants changes that will last.

This is why his administration supports partnerships between the government and private sector. With his background in the private sector, he understands that many government projects fail because they are not properly managed.

By involving experienced partners and setting clear systems, he is working to ensure that projects are completed and continue to benefit the people over time.

What truly makes him a change maker is his determination. He does not just talk about change but he works for it. Even when there is resistance, he stays focused and keeps pushing forward.

His leadership is driven by purpose, and his actions show a clear commitment to improving the lives of the people.

In the end, Peter Mbah represents what true leadership should look like. His work in Enugu State is a reminder that positive change is possible when leaders are willing to take responsibility and act with vision and integrity. His story shows that one person, with the right mindset and determination, can truly make a difference.

The Nigerian Bar Association has raised alarm over what it described as growing interference by legal practitioners, the judiciary, and electoral authorities in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such actions could weaken Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued by its President, Maxi Afam Osigwe, the association expressed concern over recent developments surrounding the interpretation and application of the Electoral Act 2026.

Osigwe warned that the NBA would not hesitate to discipline lawyers found to be exploiting the legal process to influence intra-party disputes.

He stressed that practitioners who deliberately file suits to secure judicial interference or obtain ex-parte and interlocutory orders in violation of statutory provisions risk facing sanctions.

According to him, such cases would be referred to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee to serve as a deterrent and uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

He emphasized that lawyers must remain officers of the court and not engage in procedural manipulation capable of undermining democratic institutions.

The NBA also called on the judiciary to exercise restraint, urging judges to avoid being drawn into politically motivated disputes and to strictly operate within the limits of the law.

Osigwe further appealed to the National Judicial Council to establish stricter measures to sanction judicial officers who assume jurisdiction in matters expressly barred by law or grant orders that contravene statutory provisions.

He maintained that the association would not hesitate to report any erring judicial officer to the NJC for appropriate action, in line with the judicial oath.

On the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the NBA urged the electoral body to maintain neutrality and independence in the discharge of its responsibilities.

Osigwe cautioned that the commission must avoid any action that could be perceived as political interference or an attempt to influence party structures, noting that such perceptions could erode public confidence in the electoral system.

The NBA particularly faulted what it described as the increasing involvement of lawyers and courts in intra-party conflicts, despite clear provisions in Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026 prohibiting judicial intervention in such matters.

Quoting the law, Osigwe reiterated that courts lack jurisdiction over disputes relating to the internal affairs of political parties and are also barred from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases.

He warned that continued disregard for these provisions by both lawyers and judges amounts to a direct violation of the law and poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

Osigwe concluded by stressing that the nation’s legal and electoral systems must be protected from what he described as disingenuous litigation and judicial overreach, insisting that safeguarding democratic integrity remains a collective responsibility.

The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission has released a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2026 local government elections, citing recent changes in Nigeria’s electoral legal framework.

In the updated timetable obtained by DAILY GAZETTE and endorsed by the commission’s Chairman, Prof. Chris Ngwu, ENSIEC explained that the adjustment followed the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.

The commission noted that the new schedule is designed to align the electoral process with the provisions of the updated law and other relevant statutes governing elections in the state.

ENSIEC recalled that it had earlier issued a notice of election on August 20, 2025, along with an initial timetable.

However, the revised framework now provides a fresh sequence of activities leading to the polls.

According to the commission, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between January 23 and May 26, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

Campaigns are scheduled to commence on April 29, 2026, and will end on September 25, 2026, a day before the election.

The submission of nomination forms by political parties will close on May 29, 2026, while the publication of candidates’ personal particulars is slated for June 19, 2026.

The final list of nominated candidates will be released on July 27, 2026.

Other key activities include the submission of polling agents by August 31, 2026, and the publication of the official notice of poll on September 11, 2026.

The commission confirmed that the local government elections will take place on September 26, 2026, with voting expected to run from 8am to 3pm using the open secret ballot system.

In the event of inconclusive outcomes, rerun elections will be conducted on October 10, 2026.

ENSIEC reaffirmed that the revised timetable was issued in line with its constitutional responsibilities and in compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 and other applicable laws.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State have distanced themselves from moves to endorse the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, for a third term ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party stakeholders described as undemocratic the call by former Deputy Governor, Rev. Peter Obadan, for Agbebaku to emerge as the sole candidate of the APC in the constituency.

Obadan had urged political actors across Owan to rally behind the Speaker, citing his performance, relationship with constituents, and what he termed an inclusive leadership style.

He also credited Agbebaku with maintaining stability in the Assembly and sustaining a cordial relationship with the executive arm of government.

However, APC leaders in Owan West rejected the endorsement, insisting that it does not reflect the position of the party at the grassroots.

They argued that the constituency has not witnessed satisfactory representation under the Speaker.

In a statement signed by key party officials, including Osumah Raymond, Ayeni Iyabo, and Frank David, the leaders urged party members and stakeholders to disregard Obadan’s appeal, describing it as lacking legitimacy.

They further alleged that Agbebaku’s role during the last governorship election contributed to internal divisions within the party, claiming that some members were subjected to intimidation and harassment.

The leaders also questioned his alignment with the party structure at the ward and local government levels, insisting he is yet to be fully recognised within the APC leadership framework in Owan West.

Reaffirming their stance, they maintained that any attempt to impose a sole candidate would undermine internal democracy within the party.
Reacting to the development, Agbebaku insisted he remains a loyal and bona fide member of the APC.

The Speaker had defected to the APC in May 2025 alongside two other lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party.

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will only support National Assembly aspirants with proven records of achievement ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor made this known during the commissioning and inspection of projects executed by the Senator representing Ebonyi North, Peter Nwebonyi. Nwifuru was represented at the event by the state APC chairman, Stanley Emegha.

According to him, the party is shifting its focus toward performance-based evaluation, stressing that only candidates who have delivered tangible results in office will be considered for tickets in the next election cycle.

He praised Senator Nwebonyi for initiating impactful projects in his constituency, including the construction of a three-bedroom bungalow for a local party leader, describing such efforts as beneficial to grassroots development and political inclusion.

Nwifuru noted that initiatives like these not only improve living conditions but also encourage greater participation of women in politics.

He urged other lawmakers to follow similar examples by investing in meaningful projects that directly affect their constituents.

“The era of automatic tickets is over. Only those who can point to visible achievements will be given another opportunity to represent the party,” he said, warning that underperforming lawmakers risk being sidelined in 2027.

In his remarks, Senator Nwebonyi explained that his projects were aimed at supporting the developmental agenda of the state government.

He added that some of the interventions, particularly in education, were designed to address the rising number of out-of-school children in the district.

He highlighted the construction of classroom blocks and other facilities across communities as part of efforts to improve learning conditions and encourage school attendance.

Community leaders and traditional rulers who attended the events expressed satisfaction with the projects delivered, citing improvements in infrastructure such as roads, schools, and street lighting across Abakaliki, Izzi, and Ebonyi local government areas.

Nwebonyi reaffirmed his commitment to raising the standard of representation, stating that he aims to set a benchmark that would be difficult to surpass if given another mandate in 2027.

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party has reaffirmed that Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe remains the party’s legitimate National Chairman, dismissing claims suggesting otherwise.

In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the leadership emphasized that no court ruling has removed Gombe from office.

It added that his position has been duly confirmed by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).

The party accused some individuals of spreading misinformation, warning that repeated false claims could mislead the public if not countered with facts.

According to the statement, recent court judgments related to party primaries in Ekiti and Osun states did not address or alter the party’s leadership structure.

Clarifying the legal issues, the SDP explained that a case filed by Babatunde Tosin Fayemi at the Court of Appeal focused solely on disputes arising from the Ekiti governorship primaries. Tl

The court, presided over by Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, ruled on March 27, 2026, that leadership matters within political parties fall outside judicial jurisdiction and remain internal affairs.

The statement further noted that former chairman Shehu Musa Gabam was neither part of the suit nor mentioned in the court’s judgment.

It maintained that Gabam is no longer a member of the party, having been expelled over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office—decisions that were ratified by the NEC in March 2026.

Reiterating its stance, the SDP said it would not engage with expelled members, particularly those facing ongoing legal proceedings.

The party stressed that Gombe continues to lead its affairs and that its internal structures remain stable.

The NWC also assured members and supporters nationwide that the party is focused on strengthening its base ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It highlighted ongoing efforts such as membership registration, organizational expansion, and collaboration with like-minded political and socio-cultural groups.

According to the party, these steps are part of a broader strategy to position the SDP as a credible alternative capable of driving national transformation and improving the welfare of Nigerians.