Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has asserted that Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, has become politically irrelevant.

Atiku, a former Vice President, recently praised the resilient citizens of Rivers State for maintaining peace and integrity during the recent local government elections.

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In a statement on his X account, he commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his steadfast dedication to the people’s interests, particularly in upholding the integrity of the elections amidst various challenges.

He remarked, “With the conclusion of the local government election in Rivers State, the shadows of political intimidation and judicial chicanery have dissipated, paving the way for the noble pursuit of governance to commence in the state.

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From the bustling heart of Port Harcourt to the tranquil shores of Onne, the populace has spoken in harmonious unison, affirming that nothing is greater than democracy.”

Atiku emphasized that the people of Rivers are astute and resolute, rejecting any form of political oppression or manipulation by self-serving elites.

However, in response to Atiku’s comments during a luncheon honoring the 10th Rivers State Assembly on Saturday, Wike criticized the former Vice President’s political track record, pointing out his repeated electoral failures.

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Wike noted that Atiku had lost the presidential elections in both 2019 and 2023, implying that Nigerians have decisively rejected him.

He said, “We never contested the local government elections. Did we contest? Did we pick forms? I hear Atiku Abubakar saying, ‘Oh, they have rejected me in Rivers State.’ Assuming, though not conceding, that he has lost many times, Nigerians have also rejected him.”

He concluded, “If you say an election we did not contest indicates that Nigerians have rejected us, fine. You, who contested and failed woefully, Nigerians have rejected you, so pack up and go home.”

Babatunde Oduyoye, a former House of Representatives member, declared on Saturday that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde will not enter the 2027 presidential race through covert means.

Oduyoye made these comments during an interview in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

Having previously served as Makinde’s Special Adviser on Strategy and Political Matters, Oduyoye emphasized that the governor is a strategic thinker who would take the necessary steps before making any significant political decisions.

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He pointed out that, based on his understanding of Makinde, it is clear that the governor has not undertaken the usual preparatory actions indicative of a serious presidential bid.

Oduyoye suggested that the speculation surrounding Makinde’s potential presidential ambitions might be driven by supporters who hope to see him advance politically.

He reiterated that Makinde has yet to make a definitive decision, as he has not engaged in his customary strategic planning for major political moves.

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“I’ve seen reports claiming that Governor Makinde has declared his intention to run for president in 2027, but none of these reports provide a direct quote from him. I know him well, and I understand the steps he would typically take if he were genuinely interested,” Oduyoye stated.

“As of now, the governor has not taken those steps. Thus, I believe this rumored ambition is primarily coming from his well-wishers.

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“The governor is not one to shy away from challenges, and he will not secretly enter the presidential race; he is not cowardly. I know him, and I am confident that he will reveal his intentions when the time is right,” he concluded.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has achieved a sweeping victory in the local government elections held on Saturday, winning all 23 chairmanship and 255 councillorship positions in Kaduna State.

The results were announced by Hajara Mohammed, the Chairperson of the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KAD-SIECOM).

In her announcement, Mohammed noted that eight political parties participated in the elections, with the APC securing victories across various local government areas, including Birnin-Gwari, Chikun, Igabi, Ikara, Jaba, Jema’a, Kachia, Kaduna North, and Kaduna South.

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The ruling party also dominated in Kagarko, Kajuru, Kaura, Kuaru, Kubau, Kudan, Lere, Makarfi, Sabon Gari, Sanga, Soba, Zango-Kataf, and Zaria.

After casting his vote at the LEA Kawo polling unit O47 in Kaduna North, Governor Uba Sani expressed his satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the elections throughout the state.

He remarked that the elections were generally free, fair, and peaceful, with only minor issues reported in three polling units.

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Governor Sani highlighted the significance of local government elections and noted that voter turnout across the 23 local government areas was satisfactory.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Kaduna praised the election as largely peaceful and transparent, despite some delays in the arrival of voting materials in certain areas.

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged victorious in all 21 local government chairmanship positions in the recently concluded local government elections in Kogi State on Saturday.

The ruling party also claimed all 239 councillorship seats across the state.

Announcing the results, Mamman Nda-Eri, the Chairperson of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC), praised the conduct of the elections, describing the process as “peaceful, free, and fair.”

“APC performed remarkably well, sweeping all the chairmanship and councillorship seats, leaving no victories for the other 18 political parties that participated,” Nda-Eri said, as reported by NAN.

He added that the results announced at the KOSIEC headquarters were initially declared by returning officers at the respective collation centers across the state.

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Nda-Eri expressed appreciation to election officials, security agencies, observers, and journalists for their role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the elections.

He also encouraged the elected officials to be magnanimous in victory, reminding them of the recent Supreme Court ruling that granted local governments financial autonomy.

The KOSIEC chairman extended his gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the successful election process.

As Hon. Barr. Chijioke Edeoga, the Enugu state Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the 2023 general election, marks his 60th birthday, we reflect on the remarkable contributions of a man whose life and career have been defined by service to his people, integrity, and a commitment to justice and development.

Born in Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, Hon. Edeoga has spent decades in public service, making a lasting impact across various levels of government.

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His journey began in journalism, where he honed his skills as a communicator and advocate for the people.

This early experience laid the foundation for his transition into politics, where he has distinguished himself as a voice for the underrepresented.

Edeoga served as a local government chairman and later as a member of the House of Representatives, where he championed legislative reforms aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly in rural communities.

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His tenure was marked by a deep commitment to accountability and transparency, earning him the respect of his colleagues and constituents alike.

As Commissioner for Environment in Enugu State, Edeoga played a pivotal role in driving policies that promoted sustainability, environmental protection, and urban planning, making Enugu more resilient to the challenges of climate change and urbanization.

Beyond his official roles, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga has been a tireless advocate for justice, equal opportunities for all, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

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This dedicated leader remains an exemplary figure in Nigerian politics—steadfast, committed, and devoted to the principles of good governance.

His vision for a better and more prosperous Enugu continues to inspire those who work alongside him and the many whose lives he has positively impacted.

This milestone is not just a celebration of his years but a recognition of a life spent in service to the people.

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Okaaome, I wish you many more years of impactful leadership and unwavering commitment to the progress of Enugu State and Nigeria at large.

Happy 60th birthday, the people’s leader !

Your friend; Johnpaul Anih