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Atiku, Obi, Amaechi Unite in Coalition, Set to Announce Party for 2027 Election

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Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have declared that they have formed an opposition coalition with the goal of running against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
Atiku reportedly confirmed the news during a press conference on Thursday at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja to inquiries from the media. Following growing debates on the need for a unified opposition to overthrow the current government, the announcement was made.
On March 8, Atiku, the 2023 PDP presidential candidate, reiterated his desire to bring the opposition together in order to overthrow the All Progressives Congress (APC), a cause he has always supported.
When El-Rufai switched from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on March 10, it sparked more discussion among opposition leaders and increased the impetus for such a coalition.

“Yes, the coalition of opposition is being born ahead of 2027,” Atiku stated during his remarks at the conference.

Like Atiku, Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, emphasized that the coalition’s goal was the freedom and empowerment of the Nigerian people. According to Obi, who was represented by Yunusa Tanko, the Obidient Movement’s Interim National Coordinator, the coalition would deal with the country’s pressing governance problems.

Yes, the former vice president and His Excellency Peter Obi are working together on this, Tanko said in an interview. Plans for a conversation among the opposition are a crucial concept. Since the former governor of Anambra State has stated it before, it is clear that we must cooperate as a team.

It must be founded on a program to emancipate the Nigerian people, which is precisely what we have just begun, he added.

“Our democracy has been attacked morally, with indignity and a level of disdain,” according to Tanko, who also denounced recent political acts. In that specific statement against the Rivers State government, that is precisely what was demonstrated, and as Democrats, we will not tolerate such an absurd display of power and intolerance for the Nigerian people.

The partnership would concentrate on issues like electricity supply, security, and the declining quality of Nigeria’s educational system, he continued. “Everything will be based on issues,” Tanko continued.

He said, “It will be announced,” in response to a question concerning the coalition’s political allegiance.

Other opposition figures who attended the news conference included Segun Showunmi, the convener of The Alternative; Peter Ameh, the national secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties; and Babachir Lawal, the former secretary to the Government of the Federation. Former National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), and Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), all former APC governors, all endorsed the coalition but were not present.

In an interview with The PUNCH, Peter Ameh stated that no decisions had been made on the coalition’s name or program, but that coalition talks had made great progress.

Read Also: Court Rejects Ex-Gov Kalu’s Attempt to Block FG’s Appeal in Fraud Case

As the previous vice president stated, the coalition is officially born with this press conference. We will continue to interact with political leaders and parties, and the conversations have gotten more heated,” Ameh said.

“At this point, we have not yet made a decision regarding the coalition’s name or platform,” he continued. Nonetheless, there are still debates about both. It will be made public as soon as we come to a consensus.

Regarding the alliance, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor also gave party leaders advice to maintain their flexibility. Osadolor stated that ensuring the APC was ousted from office in 2027 was in the best interests of the PDP and Nigeria overall.

“Well,” he went on, “I would advise the PDP leaders to avoid being very stiff or stagnant. Also, since they are the big brother of all the other opposition parties in this nation, they should learn to be accepting and adaptable.

Osadolor stressed that all Nigerians would gain from the coalition’s success. They should therefore be able to compromise and make the alliance a key topic of conversation. He came to the conclusion that tossing this government into the trash is beneficial for the PDP and all Nigerians.

Court Rejects Ex-Gov Kalu’s Attempt to Block FG’s Appeal in Fraud Case

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coic
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On Friday, former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu was unsuccessful in his bid to stop the Federal Government from appealing a court decision from 2021 that stopped his prosecution in a suspected money laundering case worth ₦7.1 billion.
The Court of Appeal’s three-member panel rejected Kalu and Slok Nigeria Limited’s arguments against the Federal Government’s request for an out-of-time appeal, which was submitted through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to Kalu and Slok, the Court of Appeal had no further jurisdiction over the matter because it had already rejected a previous appeal by the Federal Government on March 6, 2024.

But the ruling’s author, Justice Ishaq Sanni, explained that the March 6 decision was dismissed for technical reasons relating to the certification of court documents rather than the case’s merits.

The Federal Government has the authority to request an extension of time, according to Justice Sanni, because the verdict was given after the three-month timeframe for an appeal had passed.

Read Also: ‘Democracy is Dead in Nigeria’ – Pat Utomi Condemns NASS Over Rivers Crisis

The court granted the motion, enabling the government to submit its notice of appeal against the Federal High Court’s September 29, 2021 ruling.

The notice of appeal must be submitted by the Federal Government within 14 days, the court further said.

Both CA/ABJ/PRE/ROA/CV/431MI/2024 (FRN v. Slok Nigeria Limited & two others) and CA/ABJ/PRE/ROA/CV/430MI/2024 (FRN v. Orji Uzor Kalu & two others) are affected by the decision.

‘Democracy is Dead in Nigeria’ – Pat Utomi Condemns NASS Over Rivers Crisis

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coic
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Pat Utomi, a former presidential candidate, has blasted the National Assembly for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State.
Due to the unsolved political situation in the state, Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the House of Assembly.
Nevertheless, the National Assembly unanimously adopted the proclamation on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in spite of the flurry of objections to the move from opposition party leaders, attorneys, and political analysts nationwide.
In an interview with Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, March 21, 2025, Prof. Utomi claimed that the lawmakers had destroyed democracy and that he could not openly claim to be from a democracy.

Noting that the majority of the current members of the National Assembly were hiding while individuals like him struggled for democracy, the political economy professor claimed that the Senate and House of Representatives’ support of emergency rule was an insult to Nigerians.

Read Also: NAFDAC Uncovers Fake Rice Distributor in Rivers

He declared, “Today, democracy was killed in Nigeria.” Since my country is not a democracy, I cannot openly claim to be from one. The way it is done is extremely disrespectful to the Nigerian people’s sensibilities.

The Nigerian people were insulted by what they did yesterday. The National Assembly’s insults to Nigerians have become routine. We are no longer a democracy.

In addition, Pat Utomi criticized the lawmakers’ voting procedure and the assertion that there was not a single dissident voice during the voice vote.

It is tragic that Nigeria has reached a point where the world now mocks the nation, he insisted, adding that Nigerian authorities are undermining the nation’s institutions.

NAFDAC Uncovers Fake Rice Distributor in Rivers

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coic
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During a recent operation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) seized large quantities of counterfeit rice.
In a statement released Thursday via its official social media accounts, NAFDAC detailed this development and included images and videos.
According to the statement, NAFDAC, working with Big Bull Rice’s manufacturers, raided stores in Port Harcourt’s Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets and discovered widespread sales of fake Big Bull rice.
One of the main distribution hubs for the fake rice was found to be a store on Woji’s YKC axis.

During the operation, officials found a considerable quantity of empty counterfeit Big Bull Rice bags, as well as bags from other rice brands, including Cap Rice, Stallion Rice, Tomato Rice, and Mama Pride, as indicated in the statement.

According to the release, Ogechi Okafor, a salesperson, was taken into custody at the scene.

It also revealed that many bags of rebagged rice, a stove, a generator, sewing and sealing equipment, and thread were among the things taken from the store.
Emmanuel Onogwu, NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, highlighted in the announcement the unique qualities that differentiate real Big Bull Rice from fake goods. These characteristics include superior quality bags, an authentic brand, and a distinctive glossy ribbon along the threaded top.

Read Also: Presidency Reacts to Opposition’s Actions Against Tinubu, Calls Them ‘Frustrated’

Rebagged rice often comes from questionable sources and may be treated with dangerous chemicals to enhance its appearance, Onogwu said.

According to the agency, more than 120 fake rice bags were seized from more than ten different stores and taken to the NAFDAC Zonal Office for additional analysis.

Presidency Reacts to Opposition’s Actions Against Tinubu, Calls Them ‘Frustrated’

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coic
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Opposition leaders have been labeled “frustrated politicians” by the president, which has rejected their efforts to unite against President Bola Tinubu in advance of the 2027 elections.

Tinubu’s special adviser on communications and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that the president will not be sidetracked by self-serving political connections and will instead remain focused on governing.

Remember how former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar declared on Thursday that he and other opposition leaders are joining forces to run against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming election? He addressed a press conference in Abuja that was arranged by political stakeholders in protest of Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Read Also: Breaking: Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Samuel Anyanwu as PDP Nat’l Secretary

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, former APC national working committee member Salihu Lukman, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Babachir Lawal were among those who attended the briefing.

In a statement released Thursday, Onanuga responded by emphasizing the administration’s accomplishments as it approaches the midterms and reaffirming Tinubu’s commitment to national advancement.

In order to create a successful nation, President Tinubu is concentrating on governance. He is making progress toward this goal. His midterm is in two months, and he has a lot of noteworthy accomplishments to share. They are taking on insurmountable issues head-on. He cannot be sidetracked by the alleged political alliance. They do not pursue the public good like politicians. They are only interested in themselves. They don’t like it. What a frustrated bunch they are. Those in charge are bitter losers. Haters of Tinubu have joined together to form the coalition. “Tinubu’s stop is their goal,” he wrote on X.

Breaking: Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Samuel Anyanwu as PDP Nat’l Secretary

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coic
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According to the Supreme Court’s decision, Senator Samuel Anyanwu is the rightful National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Supreme Court overturned the Court of Appeal’s December 20, 2024, ruling in Enugu, which had supported the High Court’s decision to dismiss Anyanwu and name Sunday Udey-Okoye as his successor.

Anyanwu, who was unhappy with the appellate court’s decision, appealed the case to the Supreme Court, claiming that neither the Court of Appeal nor the Enugu High Court had the authority to make a decision on a matter pertaining to the PDP’s internal affairs. He insisted that issues pertaining to party leadership and membership are not subject to the law and therefore not to be decided by a court.

Anyanwu further accused the lower court of neglecting to take into account whether the plaintiff had used up all of PDP’s internal dispute resolution procedures prior to bringing the lawsuit. Furthermore, he expressed doubt about the choice to give the plaintiff the right to contest his position, arguing that such issues are essential to a court’s jurisdiction.

Furthermore, Anyanwu argued that he was not dismissed from his position as National Secretary nor did he resign, contesting the lower courts’ interpretation of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act 2022.

Read Also: Gov Yusuf Enforces Asset Declaration for Aides

He maintained that the PDP constitution lays out exactly how executive posts are to be vacated and that the judges’ judgment that he had resigned was not supported by any legal grounds. He reaffirmed his argument that his dismissal was illegal by pointing out that the PDP constitution’s Article 47 only allows party officers to serve one four-year term.

Remember that the PDP’s National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and Governors’ Forum had all endorsed Udey-Okoye.

Gov Yusuf Enforces Asset Declaration for Aides

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coic
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All political appointees have been ordered by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to disclose their assets.
During an Iftar (the breaking of the fast during Ramadan) meeting with the heads of government agencies and special advisers at Government House in Kano, this command was reportedly given.
According to the governor, 60–70% of the appointments have not yet complied with the Code of Conduct rules.

He advised them to get, complete, and submit the necessary paperwork as soon as possible to make sure they were in accordance with the law.
To the special advisers, Yusuf also underlined the importance of reporting on governance challenges and offering advice.

He urged people to keep a close eye on government operations and to share their opinions, both positive and negative.

Furthermore, Yusuf declared that the Heads of Government Agencies would be receiving 13 Hajj seats.

In response, Dr. Rahila Mukhtar, Executive Secretary of the Kano State Contributory Health Care Management Agency (KCHIMA), thanked the governor on behalf of the appointees for his support.

Malam Umar Ibrahim, the State Government’s Secretary, reaffirmed to the appointees their dedication to carrying out their responsibilities fairly.

Ibrahim advised them to be committed to Yusuf’s vision and goal, emphasizing change and improving the inhabitants’ quality of life.

Kwankwaso Condemns 10th Assembly Over Fubara’s Suspension: ‘Appalling Rubber Stamp’

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coic
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State has been sharply denounced by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement and the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), who has called it a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
Kwankwaso said in a statement issued on Thursday that the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all elected state lawmakers was a major violation of democratic values and an abuse of executive power.
In light of his experiences in the 1992–1993 National Assembly, Kwankwaso issued a warning against making the same mistakes in the past, where legislators put internal power conflicts ahead of defending democratic institutions.
“My initial silence was motivated by my desire to let the authorities and parties involved in the conflict do what is right,” Kwankwaso stated, adding that he has been closely monitoring events in Rivers State over the last two days.

He did, however, express shock at Tinubu’s decision to remove elected officials from office without consulting anyone, claiming that it was against the constitution and directly threatened Nigeria’s democratic foundation.

The 10th National Assembly, according to Kwankwaso, failed to respect democratic values and served as a rubber stamp for executive abuses.

“The legislature should not always follow the executive’s lead; it has a duty to keep it accountable. He said, “It is disgusting to see this 10th Assembly turn into a rubber stamp more than any of its predecessors.”

He also criticized the National Assembly’s approval of the state of emergency, saying that it was not transparent and that due process was compromised by using a voice vote on such a significant matter.

Kwankwaso Demands Freedom of the Judiciary
The former governor of Kano also urged the courts to stand up to outside pressure and declare their independence. Judges should make sure their decisions are fair, Kwankwaso said, adding, “Our judiciary must wake up to its responsibility of calming nerves by delivering judgments devoid of any hint of external influence.” Kwankwaso cautioned that Tinubu’s actions would pave the way for more federal meddling in regional government by creating a risky precedent for states headed by the opposition.

People in opposition-led states are now in a state of confusion as a result of this declaration and the Attorney General of the Federation’s following statements. It creates a risky precedent for the Head of State to strengthen his hold on states that are not as politically aligned with the center,” he said.

Read Also: Ibas Speaks on Rivers Crisis After Security Meeting, Plans Media Address

As a longtime supporter of democracy, he also opposed the military’s role in Rivers State governance, saying Tinubu should be aware of the risks associated with restoring military power in Nigerian politics.

The advancements we have made over the last 26 years are at risk if the military is called into leadership roles, according to Kwankwaso, a lawmaker who takes pride in protecting democracy.

Kwankwaso reminded President Tinubu of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to keep the military confined to their barracks, warning that reversing this trend could have long-term negative consequences for Nigeria’s democratic progress.

Concluding his statement, Kwankwaso urged the federal government to reconsider its actions, asserting that the political situation in Rivers State did not justify such drastic measures.

“I am of the view that the political situation on the ground in Rivers does not justify such a flawed interpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution. This action constitutes an unconstitutional overreach, and if unchecked, it could foster a culture of impunity,” he warned.

Ibas Speaks on Rivers Crisis After Security Meeting, Plans Media Address

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coic
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In an official return to duty, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), the recently appointed Sole Administrator for Rivers State, arrived in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
At around 11:25 am, he arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport in Omagwa, where he was greeted with great courtesy by high-ranking state officials and security guards. He was greeted at the airport with a guard of honor right away.
Ibas told the media, “Port Harcourt is my city,” expressing his satisfaction with the state’s current state of affairs. Everything seems to be calm. He underlined his dedication to restoring the city to its former splendor.
Ibas traveled to the Government House in Port Harcourt with the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 16.

Read Also: Japan Secures First Spot in 2026 World Cup with 2-0 Victory Over Bahrain

After being shown around by important officials at Government House, he went to the Executive Council Chamber to speak to service chiefs and Government House officials.

Ibas used a brief press conference to thank his predecessors for their contributions, saying, “I want to thank you all for what you have been doing so far.”

Upon arrival, he said, he had met with service commanders and the head of service. The formal briefing will require me to meet with them. He declared, “I promise you that I will have to speak to you about some matters you are interested in later this evening.”

Ibas, wearing all-white native clothing, also spoke about the welcoming reception he experienced when he arrived.

Japan Secures First Spot in 2026 World Cup with 2-0 Victory Over Bahrain

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coic
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After defeating Bahrain 2-0 on Thursday, Japan became the first country to reserve a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo’s goals in the second half clinched the victory and guaranteed Japan’s seventh straight World Cup appearance.
The Group C leaders got off to a poor start on a cold Saitama evening, but they soon settled into a groove.

Shortly after being brought on as a substitute, Kamada of Crystal Palace broke the tie in the 66th minute. Kubo of Real Sociedad completed an outstanding performance by adding a second goal in the 87th minute.
Japan was almost guaranteed to qualify even before the game started because a draw would have been enough after Australia’s decisive 5-1 victory over Indonesia.

To the pleasure of the almost 60,000 spectators, the Samurai Blue were keen to close the deal in style.

Kamada’s influence was instantaneous; he put the ball beyond Bahrain’s goalkeeper, Ebrahim Lutfalla, after latching onto a deft reverse pass from Kubo.

At the final whistle, Kubo’s well-executed left-footed shot from a tight angle placed the outcome beyond dispute and sent the Japanese players into frenzied jubilation.

Japan has dominated the Asian qualifiers under coach Hajime Moriyasu, going undefeated with five victories and one draw.

Premier League players Wataru Endo of Liverpool and Kaoru Mitoma of Brighton were among the team’s formidable roster.

Endo’s strike in the ninth minute almost gave Japan the lead early in the match, but VAR disallowed it.

Read Also: Rivers State of Emergency: Senate Holds Closed-Door Deliberation

The home team kept up the pressure, although Bahrain appeared dangerous on the attack after Komail Al Aswad wasted a good opportunity just before halftime.
Additionally, Mitoma blazed a shot over the bar in stoppage time, missing a fantastic opportunity. Midway through the second half, Moriyasu added Kamada and Junya Ito because he felt the team needed new energy, and it immediately paid off.

After forcing a superb save from Lutfalla, Kubo, who had been a continuous menace, eventually scored in the last seconds.

As they get ready for the 2026 World Cup in North America, Japan’s triumph not only guaranteed qualification but also solidified their place as one of Asia’s best footballing nations.

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