The leadership struggle within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified as the National Working Committee (NWC) endorsed the Rivers State congresses, consolidating Nyesom Wike’s influence.

The NWC’s decision, made during a meeting at Wadata Plaza in Abuja on Thursday, affirms Wike’s control and delays the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting—initially scheduled for September 26—to October 24. This postponement could prevent any potential reversal of the endorsement.

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The PDP NWC, chaired by acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, faced mounting pressure as tensions escalated between Wike and the PDP Governors Forum.

The conflict reached a peak when PDP governors publicly supported current Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and called for a review of the Rivers State congresses.

Wike responded with threats to destabilize the governors’ states if they continued to interfere in Rivers State affairs, prompting condemnation from the PDP Governors Forum.

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An anonymous NWC member revealed that the endorsement of the Rivers and other state congresses had been completed, and the rescheduled NEC meeting would be the only remaining venue for overturning the decision.

Some states, such as Kogi, saw partial approval due to identified irregularities, but the Rivers State congresses were fully endorsed.

The delay of the NEC meeting, originally set to address crucial issues including the potential replacement of Damagum, is seen as a strategic move to solidify Wike’s gains.

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The rescheduling of the meeting to October 24 may affect its execution, further entrenching Wike’s position against the governors’ forum led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

As the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) gears up for the 2027 elections, the chairmen of its state chapters in the South-West have expressed strong support for the party’s national leadership.

The vote of confidence was delivered during a meeting in Lagos, overseen by Ademola Ayoade, the Vice National Chairman for the zone.

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In the meeting, attended by chairpersons including Adelusi Ayeni of Ekiti State and Mrs. Ronnie Dikko-Kila of Lagos State, Ayoade affirmed the unwavering support of the state chairmen for the leadership of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Dr. Ajuji Ahmed, who head the NNPP’s National Executive and National Working Committees.

Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, Osun State chairman, highlighted the urgent need for improved party discipline and a more robust organizational structure down to the ward level.

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He emphasized that the party would no longer tolerate indiscipline and stressed the importance of unity and cohesion as the NNPP prepares for the 2027 elections.

The meeting also focused on strategic planning and agreed to initiate zonal consultations and strategic meetings to strengthen the party’s presence.

Motunde Fajuyi, the Oyo State chairman, announced that consultations would commence soon, with a major Southwest meeting scheduled to take place in Osun State in the final quarter of the year.

These actions are part of the NNPP’s broader strategy to enhance its influence and ensure a strong showing in upcoming elections.

As the 2027 presidential election approaches, former Kano State Governor, Sen. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has initiated consultations regarding his potential candidacy.

Kwankwaso, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and the leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has begun a series of meetings with key stakeholders, party members, and political allies to gauge support and strategize his bid for the presidency.

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Kwankwaso’s consultations are aimed at assessing his party’s readiness and exploring alliances with other political groups.

During these meetings, he is expected to outline his vision for Nigeria’s future, address concerns about his platform, and build a coalition of support across various regions of the country.

The former governor’s consultations come at a critical time as Nigeria prepares for another electoral cycle in 2027.

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Kwankwaso, known for his track record in governance and his influential role in northern Nigerian politics, is seeking to consolidate his political base and rally support from across the country.

Kwankwaso’s potential presidential bid reflects his continued ambition to influence national policy and governance in Nigeria.

His consultations will likely involve discussions on key issues such as economic development, security, and political reforms, as he aims to position himself as a viable candidate for the presidency in 2027.

The Kogi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended former senator and governorship candidate Dino Melaye due to alleged anti-party activities.

The decision, made by the party’s executive committee in Ayetoro Gbede, Ward 1, follows Melaye’s failure to attend a disciplinary hearing.

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According to a memo dated September 12, Melaye was summoned by the party’s disciplinary committee in August to address allegations of misconduct.

His absence was deemed a serious breach of party discipline.

The memo stated: “The Ward Party Executive Committee of the PDP in Ayetoro/Iluagba Ward 1 met on September 12, 2024, to review the disciplinary committee’s findings.

Despite being invited, Senator Dino Melaye did not attend, showing disregard for the party’s authority.”

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The committee determined that Melaye’s failure to appear represented a significant disrespect to the party and its leadership.

The resolution included that his actions violated the PDP Constitution and undermined party principles.

The suspension, effective immediately, was enacted under Article 59(1) of the PDP Constitution, which grants the Ward Party Exco the power to discipline members for rule violations.

The executive committee emphasized that Melaye’s conduct has caused embarrassment to the party and that his continued membership was no longer acceptable.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has inaugurated Barr. Aber Serumun Deborah as the state’s first female Secretary to the State Government (SSG). The ceremony took place at the Government House in Makurdi on Thursday.

Governor Alia praised Barr. Aber’s appointment as a significant step towards recognizing and empowering women in leadership roles.

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He emphasized the administration’s commitment to merit-based and inclusive governance.

“The appointment of Barr. Aber Serumun Deborah as the first female SSG reflects our administration’s belief in the capabilities of Benue women and our dedication to fostering diversity in leadership roles,” Alia said.

The governor expressed strong confidence in Barr. Aber’s capacity to manage her new responsibilities effectively, including coordinating government activities and promoting sustainable development.

He assured her of full support from his administration and encouraged collaboration among public servants, stakeholders, and citizens for the state’s advancement.

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In her acceptance speech, Barr. Aber thanked both God and Governor Alia for the opportunity. She promised to diligently serve in her new role and align her efforts with the administration’s goals for a more prosperous Benue.

Barr. Aber’s appointment follows the resignation of the former SSG, Prof. Joseph Alakali.

Hajiya Fatima Aliyu Aminu Garu, the wife of Hon. Aliyu Aminu Garu, representing Bauchi Federal Constituency, is facing criticism for distributing sugarcane sticks to youths as part of an empowerment effort.

The event, captured in photos that have since gone viral, has been met with derision and condemnation from various quarters.

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The Bauchi State Chapter of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has expressed its disapproval of the initiative.

PRP State Secretary, Abdulazeez Haruna issued a statement criticizing the gesture as inadequate and out of touch with the real needs of the constituency.

He stated, “This gesture is far below the standard expected of our representatives. The people of Bauchi Federal Constituency deserve more than superficial handouts. They need substantial developmental programs that address their actual needs and challenges.”

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Haruna called for accountability from Hon. Aliyu Garu, demanding a detailed account of his legislative contributions and developmental projects.

“We want to know what tangible benefits he has provided to the people of Bauchi Local Government Area. What significant bills has he sponsored? What projects has he supported to improve the lives of his constituents?”

He urged the lawmaker to focus on genuine, impactful initiatives rather than token gestures and called on the people of Bauchi to hold their representatives accountable for meaningful progress.

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Haruna also promised that the PRP is prepared to offer more effective and responsive representation.

Attempts to reach Hon. Aliyu Garu for comment were unsuccessful, but an aide confirmed that the lawmaker is currently out of the country on official business.

Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, has expressed grave concerns about the escalating tensions among political actors in Edo State as the September 21 governorship election approaches.

In an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today, Itodo warned that the situation in Edo State appears increasingly volatile, with rising activities from cult groups and reported attacks on political candidates and their supporters.

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Itodo urged security agencies to uphold impartiality and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to appoint individuals of high integrity to oversee the election.

He highlighted that the current environment suggests that political actors are gearing up for conflict rather than a democratic election.

He said, “The increase in cult group activities, attacks on candidates, and destruction at party rallies indicate that the political landscape is not preparing for an election but for a confrontation. Security agencies and INEC must prioritize the safety and interests of the people.”

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Itodo warned that if voters feel unsafe, they may not participate in the election, thereby disenfranchising the people of Edo.

He urged both political sides to prioritize the state’s well-being and adhere to democratic principles.

The Yiaga Africa executive director emphasized that security operatives must conduct their duties with impartiality and transparency to build trust among stakeholders.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of deploying individuals of exemplary character to manage the election to ensure a credible and secure process.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate redeployment of the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, ahead of the September 21 governorship election.

The party is urging the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to take swift action, citing concerns that Dr. Onuoha’s position could lead to a biased and compromised election.

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The PDP, in a statement by its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, also requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to remove the current Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Nemo Edwin-Iwo. According to the party, the redeployment of these officials would help restore trust in the election process and ensure a peaceful, fair contest.

Damagum criticized the police for disbanding the Edo State Security Corps, a unit set up by the Edo State House of Assembly.

He argued that this move by the police has escalated tensions, threatening the security and safety of Edo residents ahead of the election.

Additionally, the PDP accused Dr. Onuoha of partisanship, claiming that he is sympathetic to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and cannot be trusted to oversee a credible election.

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The party also demanded the immediate release of 10 PDP members arrested in connection with the election, vowing not to sign any peace accords until their grievances were addressed.

Governor Godwin Obaseki had earlier expressed similar concerns, accusing the police of bias against the PDP and alleging that the party’s leaders were being targeted to weaken their chances in the upcoming election.

This tension culminated in the PDP’s refusal to sign the National Peace Accord, a pact designed to ensure a peaceful, violence-free election.

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While representatives of 17 other political parties signed the accord, the PDP state chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, and the party’s governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, declined to do so.

They stated that the party would not enter into any agreement while its members were being unlawfully detained.

The Chairman of the Peace Accord Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), emphasized the importance of the accord, urging candidates to commit to peaceful campaigns and respect the election’s outcome.

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However, the PDP insisted that it would only participate in the peace accord after its concerns were fully addressed.

In response, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reassured all parties that the police would remain neutral and committed to providing a fair and secure environment for the election.

He called for all stakeholders to maintain peace and trust in the democratic process, assuring voters that their rights would be protected.

Meanwhile, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Convener of the National Peace Committee, encouraged the people of Edo State to come out and vote peacefully.

He urged candidates to seek legal recourse if dissatisfied with the election results, reminding them that the peace committee has mechanisms in place to address election-related disputes.

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has explained its refusal to sign the National Peace Accord for the upcoming September 21 governorship election, citing concerns of bias by the police.

Despite being present at the event, PDP State Chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi and the party’s candidate Asue Ighodalo chose not to sign the accord, alongside representatives from 17 other political parties.

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Earlier, Governor Godwin Obaseki had hinted at the possibility of the PDP pulling out of the peace agreement.

He accused the police of working in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), pointing to the recent arrest of 10 PDP leaders who were seen as key figures ahead of the election.

According to Obaseki, this demonstrated that the police, under APC influence, were biased from the outset, making it impossible for the PDP to sign an agreement overseen by a partial umpire.

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Aziegbemi echoed this sentiment, questioning the validity of signing a peace accord while several PDP members remained in detention without trial.

He further criticized the Inspector General of Police (IGP), accusing him of unprecedented bias and demanding the withdrawal of external police forces currently operating in Edo State.

Meanwhile, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Chairman of the Peace Accord Committee, emphasized that the purpose of the peace accord was to ensure a peaceful, hate-free, and violence-free election, where candidates respect the outcome as long as it is deemed fair and credible.

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He urged all parties to prioritize the interest of Edo State’s people above individual ambitions, stressing that peace is crucial for the state’s progress.

In response to the PDP’s concerns, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reassured all stakeholders that the police would remain impartial, professional, and committed to ensuring a level playing field for all political parties.

He called on all parties to embrace peace and respect the democratic process, ensuring a credible and fair election where voters can exercise their rights without fear or intimidation.