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Feature, Kano, Politics

NNPP Claims Overhyped as Ganduje Strengthens APC’s 2027 Positioning – Analyst

Political analysts in Kano have dismissed claims by the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) that the All Progressives Congress (APC) lacks the capacity to win the 2027 elections without the influence of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, describing the assertion as “political exaggeration” aimed at boosting NNPP’s relevance. The reaction follows comments by the Kano NNPP Chairman, Mr. Hashimu Sulaiman Dungurawa, who alleged that the ruling party was “weak and confused” ahead of the next general elections. However, political observer, Umar Idris Shuaibu, said the APC remains the most structured political organisation in Nigeria, currently strengthening its internal cohesion under the guidance of its national leaders, including the immediate past National Chairman and now Chairperson of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.   Ganduje’s Influence Still Central in APC Analysts maintain that despite NNPP’s claims, Dr. Ganduje continues to command enormous goodwill, deep political networks, and unmatched grassroots influence across Kano and the North West. “Ganduje’s political structure did not collapse in 2023. In fact, it is still the most organised political machinery in Kano. His reach goes beyond party lines,” Umar noted. Read Also: APC Needs Unity, Not Division — Kano Analyst Defends Chairman Yilwatda Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027 FG Announces 50 Tax Exemptions, Reliefs for Low-Income Earners, SMEs, Effective January 2026 He added that Ganduje’s leadership style during his tenure as APC National Chairman—particularly his role in reconciliation and expansion of the party nationwide—remains a major asset ahead of 2027.   APC’s National Strength ‘Unshaken’ Despite Opposition Claims Contrary to the NNPP chairman’s position, the analyst said the APC is not in a position of weakness, stressing that political consultations are normal ahead of any election cycle. “Every strong party builds bridges. The APC is not begging for alliances; it is strengthening national unity,” he reiterated. He added that the NNPP’s comments were “an attempt to remain in the news as the party grapples with internal defections and declining influence.”   NNPP’s 2023 Performance ‘Overhyped’ — Analyst Umar Idris Shuaibu also dismissed claims about NNPP’s electoral strength in 2023, arguing that the party benefitted largely from protest votes and ballot visibility issues, rather than from solid political structures. “The NNPP’s success was situational, not structural. Their national impact remains minimal, and their strength is still largely confined to pockets of Kano,” he said.   Ganduje’s Legacy Projects Still Resonating in Kano The analyst further argued that despite political differences, Dr. Ganduje’s infrastructural interventions and rural development initiatives continue to shape public sentiment positively. Some of the key legacy projects include: Construction of rural roads and bridges Development of the Dansoshiya grazing reserve and Fulani settlement Healthcare upgrades across rural communities Improved water supply systems Workers welfare “These projects remain unmatched and continue to earn him respect across the state,” Umar confirmed it.   APC Preparing for 2027 With Renewed Strategy Party insiders confirmed that the APC is intensifying mobilisation efforts to reclaim Kano in 2027, with Dr. Ganduje, federal appointees, and other key stakeholders coordinating support bases across all 44 local government areas. “The 2027 contest will be based on performance, not propaganda,” an APC source said. “The federal government’s interventions in infrastructure, security, and agriculture will reshape voter confidence.”   Conclusion While the NNPP attempts to portray the APC as weakened, analysts insist the ruling party is simply entering a fresh phase of strategic reorganisation. With Ganduje’s sustained political relevance, widened federal visibility, and deep-rooted national structures, the APC remains strongly positioned ahead of the 2027 elections.

National, News, Politics

ADC Formed to Reset Nigeria’s Politics and Democracy – Abdullahi

The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has said the party was established to reset politics and deepen democracy in Nigeria. Abdullahi made the remarks on Wednesday during an interview on Prime Time, a programme on Arise Television. He stated that the emergence of the ADC was a direct response to what he described as government-driven efforts to weaken and destabilise opposition parties across the country. Read Also: Katsina Senator Resigns from APC, Joins ADC “In 2014/2015, what you saw that birthed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was a product of political strategy,” Abdullahi said. “But what has brought about the ADC now is a product of political necessity occasioned by government’s intention to destabilize all other political parties.” He added that the ADC was not founded merely to seek political power but to “reset politics and democracy in Nigeria.” Abdullahi also mentioned that internal conflicts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) pushed figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to join the ADC, noting that some Labour Party members have also defected to the party.

National, News, Politics

APC Reaffirms Commitment to Digital Membership Registration

In a renewed drive to reposition the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a modern, digitally driven, and people-centred political organization, the National Chairman of the party, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has reaffirmed the commitment of the party to fully implement its membership e-registration exercise launched last year. Speaking in Abuja on Thursday while declaring open a one-day membership e-registration training workshop for the 36 state chairmen of the party, Yilwatda said the initiative marks a critical step in strengthening the APC’s internal structures and embracing innovation in political organization. Represented by the National Vice Chairman (North Central), Hon. Muazu Bawa Rijau, the APC chairman described the training as part of the National Working Committee’s (NWC) broader strategy to make the party’s operations more transparent and technology-driven. Read Also: Yilwatda, Ganduje, Gbajabiamila, Barau Witness Defection of Two Kano NNPP Lawmakers to APC “We believe that for the APC to remain a truly progressive and people-oriented party, it must embrace digital transformation not as a choice, but as a necessity for growth, credibility, and sustainability,” Yilwatda said. He explained that the e-registration initiative would enable the party to maintain a credible and verifiable database of members, improve internal communication, and enhance transparency and accountability in its operations. Also speaking, the National Organising Secretary of the APC, Muhammad Sulaiman Arugungu, said the aim of the exercise is to develop an efficient, transparent, and inclusive membership system that accurately reflects the party’s strength and spread across the country. He noted that the initiative follows a series of zonal workshops earlier held across the six geopolitical zones, which brought together State Organising Secretaries and three representatives from each senatorial district to build capacity and ensure a seamless nationwide rollout of the e-registration process. “Those sessions focused on the operational aspects of the e-registration system as well as top-down training,” Arugungu said. “Today’s programme, however, is meant to ensure that our state chairmen — the custodians of party structures at the state level — fully understand both the technical framework and strategic importance of this initiative.” According to him, the exercise will help the APC improve coordination between the National Secretariat and the grassroots, provide a reliable tool for congresses, primaries, and election planning, and strengthen its mobilization base ahead of the 2027 general elections. Arugungu added that the reforms reflect the collective commitment to modernization, inclusivity, and organizational excellence being emphasized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the National Assembly, and the National Working Committee. Charging the state chairmen, he said, “As leaders of the party in your respective states, your role in the success of this programme is pivotal. You are expected to provide leadership and supervision throughout the e-registration process, ensure that others are properly trained and supported, and maintain fairness, inclusivity, and transparency during implementation.” In his remarks, the Chairman of the Forum of State Chairmen and Lagos State APC Chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, assured the party leadership that the state chairmen are fully committed to ensuring the success of the e-registration exercise. He reiterated that the initiative would not only modernize the APC’s operations but also make it more responsive to the needs and aspirations of its members nationwide.

Abuja, Kano, Politics

Yilwatda, Ganduje, Gbajabiamila, Barau Witness Defection of Two Kano NNPP Lawmakers to APC

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, on Thursday, led key party figures to the House of Representatives chamber to witness the official defection of two lawmakers from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the APC. Those in attendance included the immediate past APC National Chairman and current Chairperson of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; and the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin. Their presence underscored the significance of the event for the ruling party. The defecting lawmakers are Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, and Hon. Sagir Koki, representing Kano Municipal Federal Constituency — both from Kano State. Read Also: Ganduje Inspects Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Promises Revival of Abandoned Projects In their separate letters read by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, the lawmakers attributed their decision to persistent internal crises and irreconcilable divisions within the NNPP, which they said had made it impossible for them to continue under the party’s platform. Meanwhile, Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda repeatedly raised a point of order during the session to contest the defections but was not recognised by the Speaker. The defection further strengthens the APC’s numerical strength in the Green Chamber and reflects ongoing realignments within Kano’s political landscape.

Kano, News, Politics

Strong Kwankwaso Ally, Kofa Dumps NNPP, Rejoins APC, Backs Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

The lawmaker representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency of Kano State, Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, has announced his defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid. Kofa disclosed this in a statement he personally signed on Monday, adding that he received a warm reception from thousands of his supporters in his hometown, Kofa, Bebeji Local Government Area of Kano State. He said the attendees unanimously decided to abandon the NNPP and the Kwankwasiyya movement to join the APC in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid. According to him, the event was graced by thousands of people, while nearly 2,000 Islamic clerics offered special prayers for President Tinubu, as well as for peace, progress, and development in Kiru/Bebeji, Kano State, and Nigeria at large. Read Also: Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027 Kofa’s exit from the NNPP follows months of internal crisis within the party, particularly in Kano, where divisions arose between major stakeholders over control and leadership direction. The rift deepened after the 2023 elections, as key figures, including Kofa, reportedly disagreed with the party’s structure and strategy under the Kwankwasiyya movement led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, a former Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group, had previously served as a prominent member of the APC before joining the NNPP ahead of the 2023 general elections. His return to the ruling party marks yet another major political realignment in Kano State’s dynamic political landscape.

Abuja, National, News, Politics

APC Chairman’s Wife Drums Support for Tinubu Re-election, Backs Women’s Seats Bill

Dr. Martina Yilwatda, wife of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has initiated early mobilisation efforts, urging women to unite in support of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. ​Speaking on Sunday in Abuja at an event organised by the Women’s Leadership Network (WLN), Dr. Yilwatda called on women within the ruling party to immediately begin grassroots sensitisation for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. ​“We need to start working on the re-election of President Bola Tinubu, and this can only be achieved through mobilisation,” she stated. ​Dr. Yilwatda praised the administration’s commitment to gender inclusion. “The government of our president has demonstrated a strong commitment to women’s inclusion in terms of appointments in agencies as well as empowerment,” she said. Read Also: Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027 Ganduje and Barau: The Power Duo Shaping Kano and National Politics ​APC Needs Unity, Not Division — Kano Analyst Defends Chairman Yilwatda “And so we should work towards preaching the message of his Renewed Hope Agenda… I urge us once again to preach the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President. He has done a lot for women and Nigerians. So, I want you to support him in 2027,” she added. ​The APC National Chairman’s wife also endorsed the Reserved Seats for Women Bill currently before the National Assembly, stating that its passage into law is crucial for guaranteeing greater female political representation. ​“All the things that you have said here can only be achieved when we work together and speak with one voice. Again, we need to change the narrative that women don’t like each other,” she noted, encouraging women to contest elective offices and actively support one another. ​She referenced the ongoing nationwide mobilisation within the APC, mentioning the ‘Project 774’ championed by the APC National Women Leader. ​Earlier, the National Coordinator of the Women’s Leadership Network, Dr. Fauziya Buhari-Ado, stated that the group was established to promote women’s political participation and leadership development nationwide. ​She lamented that despite being the backbone of the Nigerian economy, women and youths remain underrepresented in governance. “Our vision is not vague. We want an inclusive Nigeria where women and youths are equitably represented in decision-making,” Buhari-Ado said. ​She stressed the importance of early groundwork for electoral success: “Elections are not won on election day — they are won through years of consistent mobilisation, sensitisation, communication and grassroots engagement.” ​Dr. Buhari-Ado also commended President Tinubu for providing women with more opportunities in government “than at any other time in the Fourth Republic.” ​In her opening remark, Deborah Oriaku, Founder of the WLN, who spoke on ‘Empowering Women, Strengthening The Nation: A Call To Purpose And Unity,’ commended President Tinubu’s administration for its tangible impact on women. ​“Many talk about women — but Mr. President has made decisions that directly uplift, strengthen and advance women. His cabinet is one of the most inclusive. His appointments have given women strategic power seats,” Oriaku observed. ​She concluded by framing the support as loyalty based on performance. “Therefore, as 2027 approaches, this is not just gratitude — this is loyalty rooted in evidence… And this is a continuation of solidarity rooted in impact,” she said, urging women to “continue to mobilise, organise and evangelise — intentionally — in our communities… in support of the President’s vision.” ​The Reserved Seats for Women Bill proposes the creation of 37 new Senate seats and 37 additional seats in the House of Representatives, all exclusively reserved for women.

Kano, National, Politics

Ganduje and Barau: The Power Duo Shaping Kano and National Politics

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano In the evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, few partnerships have demonstrated strategic alignment, mutual respect, and political foresight like that of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Senator Barau I. Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate. Their collaboration represents not only the consolidation of political power within Kano State but also the advancement of Northern interests within the broader framework of national governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, a seasoned administrator and political tactician, has long been recognised for his deep understanding of Nigeria’s political terrain. From his eight-year tenure as Governor of Kano State (2015–2023) to his stewardship as APC National Chairman, Ganduje has consistently combined strategic governance with grassroots political mobilisation. His approach to leadership—calm, methodical, and result-driven—has earned him respect as one of the most influential figures in Northern politics. Senator Barau Jibrin, on the other hand, has emerged as a key voice in the 10th National Assembly, where his experience and intellect have helped bridge regional divides and strengthen legislative stability. As Deputy Senate President, his focus on fiscal responsibility, equitable representation, and collaboration with the executive arm has been instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of the legislature. Read Also: Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027 What makes their relationship remarkable is not merely shared political affiliation but a synergy rooted in mutual respect and a common vision for progress. Ganduje and Barau both represent a pragmatic school of politics—where loyalty to the party, development-driven governance, and national cohesion take precedence over personal ambition. Their partnership also carries strong implications for Kano State. Under their collective influence, Kano remains a dominant force in the APC, maintaining political coherence even amid shifting alliances nationwide. Both leaders have successfully balanced state and national interests, ensuring Kano retains its voice in federal decision-making while attracting attention to Northern developmental needs. Observers believe the Ganduje–Barau alliance is a strategic pillar for the APC’s long-term sustainability, especially as the 2027 elections draw near. Ganduje’s organizational experience and Barau’s legislative strength complement each other in a way that fortifies the ruling party’s internal stability and policy direction. Together, they represent a blend of experience and continuity—a partnership that transcends political convenience to focus on progress, stability, and national unity.

Abuja, National, Politics

Why Tinubu Needs Ganduje To Win 2027

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano Former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, is increasingly being recognized as a key political figure whose experience and influence could be critical to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. Observers believe that Dr. Ganduje’s depth of political experience, strategic foresight, and extensive network across Nigeria position him as one of the strongest assets within the ruling party. “Ganduje is a man who understands Nigerian politics at every level,” a political analyst said. “He navigates challenges with foresight and strategy, turning potential crises into opportunities for party growth and unity. If the APC truly wants to retain power in 2027, the President cannot afford to underestimate the value Ganduje brings.” During Ganduje’s tenure as APC National Chairman, the party witnessed a notable wave of defections that strengthened its national presence. Many influential politicians from opposition parties joined the APC under his leadership, reshaping political alignments in several states. Related: Inside Ganduje’s Political Blueprint That Keeps Strengthening APC Nationwide One of the most remarkable defections was that of Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa, a close ally of former Kano State Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso and a leading figure in the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). His return to the APC was widely seen as a major realignment in Kano politics, attributed to Ganduje’s persuasive political skills and strategic outreach. “Ganduje played a central role in persuading key opposition figures to cross over,” said another source familiar with the development. “These moves were not just symbolic—they brought tangible political strength and structure to the APC across the country.” Dr. Ganduje’s political journey has been marked by consistency and strategic depth. He served as Deputy Governor under Engr. Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, later became Governor of Kano State (2015–2023), and subsequently held the position of APC National Chairman. This combination of executive governance and party leadership experience gives him a unique political edge. “Few leaders possess Ganduje’s mix of experience, political wisdom, and strategic insight,” a political commentator noted. “He knows how to read the political terrain and position the party for maximum advantage.” Read Also: Ganduje’s Achievements Still Define Kano, Despite NNPP’s Attempts to Erase Them In Kano, most major political stakeholders have now aligned with the APC, effectively consolidating the state’s political base under Ganduje’s influence. Analysts suggest this consolidation has broader implications for the 2027 elections, strengthening APC’s prospects both in Kano and nationally. “The alignment of Kano’s political heavyweights into the APC sends a strong message,” one analyst explained. “It demonstrates Ganduje’s continued relevance and his ability to shape politics beyond his immediate sphere.” As preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, political observers believe Ganduje’s political acumen and nationwide influence could play a decisive role in securing APC’s continued dominance. “His network across states, understanding of internal party dynamics, and ability to manage opposition challenges make him indispensable to the 2027 strategy,” said one commentator. “He has the capacity to unite factions, bring key stakeholders together, and ensure the APC remains cohesive and strong.” Ganduje’s experience, they argue, could make the crucial difference between a divided party and a united front ready for victory. “He understands that elections are not won by chance—they require planning, coordination, and execution. His counsel to President Tinubu could be the factor that transforms strategy into success,” another observer added. As the APC continues to chart its path toward 2027, Dr. Ganduje stands out not just as a former governor or ex-party chairman, but as a statesman and strategist whose experience, influence, and leadership remain vital to the ruling party’s future. “President Tinubu’s 2027 victory will depend on unity, strong alliances, and strategic foresight,” an analyst reiterated. “And Ganduje has consistently proven he can deliver all three.” Umar Idris Shuaibu is a public commentator and political analyst based on Kano. shuaibuumaridris@gmail.com

News, Politics

INEC Declares Governor Soludo Winner of 2025 Anambra Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as the winner of the 2025 Anambra State governorship election. Announcing the final results in Awka, the State Returning Officer stated that Soludo’s APGA secured a total of 422,664 votes, defeating other political parties by a wide margin. According to INEC, out of 2,788,864 registered voters, 598,229 were accredited across the 21 local government areas of the state. The election recorded 584,054 valid votes, 11,244 rejected votes, bringing the total votes cast to 595,298. Read Also: Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai Other results include: APC – 99,445 votes, PDP – 1,401 votes, LP – 10,576 votes, and YPP – 37,753 votes. Smaller parties shared the remaining votes. With this victory, Governor Soludo has been re-elected to continue his administration under the platform of APGA, maintaining the party’s dominance in Anambra politics.

Enugu, National, News, Politics

Senate Approves Dr. Udeh’s Appointment as Federal Minister

The Senate has officially confirmed Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Dr. Udeh’s confirmation took place on Thursday after he appeared before the upper legislative chamber for his ministerial screening. During the session, he answered questions from lawmakers and outlined his vision and commitment to national development. He was ushered into the Senate chamber at exactly 12:15 p.m. by the Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on National Assembly (Senate) Matters, marking a key step in the final phase of his appointment process. Read Also: Tinubu Strengthens Kano Ties With Appointment of Salihu Sagir Takai President Tinubu had, on Tuesday, written to the Senate seeking Udeh’s screening and confirmation. The request was read during plenary by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. Tinubu stated that the nomination was made pursuant to Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and expressed confidence that the Senate would give the nominee expeditious consideration. Udeh’s nomination comes after the resignation of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, the sole minister previously representing Enugu State in the Federal Executive Council. Nnaji resigned last month following controversies relating to his academic and NYSC credentials. Udeh is currently the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State and was recently elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. After reading the President’s request, Senator Akpabio referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole, which subsequently confirmed Udeh as minister.

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