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NCC Moves to Strengthen Local Smartphone Manufacturing With Fresh Incentives

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced a package of incentives targeted at promoting the local production of smartphones, tablets and other telecommunications equipment as part of efforts to make digital devices more affordable and increase access to technology across the country.

The Chairman of the NCC Governing Board, Chief Idris Ibikunle Olorunnimbe, said the Commission was taking a more active role in driving industrial growth by creating an enabling environment for investors to establish device manufacturing plants in Nigeria.

Policy measures, including tax holidays and streamlined customs processes, would back the initiative to lower production costs and boost local manufacturing capacity, he said.

Effective regulation is still crucial to ensure consumers access to quality and affordable digital devices, according to Olorunnimbe.

“Regulation and market integrity are what make a market affordable to begin with. They are its precondition. A phone is only genuinely cheap if it’s real, if it’s safe, if it works and if it has the warranty the buyer can trust,” he said.

He observed that Nigeria has made considerable progress in telecommunications coverage, but the high cost of smartphones still prevents many citizens from participating in the digital space.

The NCC chairman said cutting the cost of devices would complement ongoing investment in network infrastructure and help bridge the country’s digital divide.

He also advocated moving away from the traditional model of outright phone purchases, saying more flexible financing arrangements will make devices accessible to a larger segment of the population.

“Do away with the notion that a Nigerian has to buy a phone outright, in one payment, on the day. “It’s not how it works anywhere else in the world,” he added.

Olorunnimbe said locally made smartphones, routers and MiFi devices would be incorporated into the Commission’s digital inclusion programmes as part of the broader strategy.

He said the devices are likely to have embedded links to educational platforms as part of the NCC’s zero-rated education programme, enabling students and other users to access learning materials without paying for data.

In addition, the devices will provide direct access to key government digital services, including civic registration, tax administration and e-health platforms, to improve citizens’ access to essential public services.

The initiative, he said, is not only about expanding access to the internet, but also ensuring that digital connectivity translates into better educational opportunities, improved public service delivery and greater economic participation.

The NCC said the policy is a demonstration of its commitment to fostering the development of indigenous technology while supporting Nigeria’s drive for a more inclusive and self-reliant digital economy.

INEC Reacts To Court Ruling On NDC Deregistration

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it would take an informed and lawful decision in accordance with the directives of the court after its legal department receives the Certified True Copy of the judgment delivered by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which nullified the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The Commission, according to a statement issued on Saturday by its Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser, Adedayo Oketola, said it was aware of media reports on the June 26 judgment.

The electoral umpire, the statement said, could not comment on the specifics until its legal department got and reviewed the court’s decision.

The statement read, “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is aware of reports circulating in the media about the judgment delivered on Friday, June 26, 2026, by the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, which set aside an earlier order concerning the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

“However, up to this time, the Commission has not yet received the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the court’s order.

“Once the legal department of the Commission receives and meticulously studies the CTC of the judgment, INEC will take an informed, lawful decision in compliance with the directives of the court.

We cannot comment on the details of the ruling until then, and we encourage the public to await the Commission’s formal position on the matter.”

Obioha Insists Peter Obi Must Be On 2027 Presidential Ballot

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Rev. Dr. Okechukwu Christopher Obioha, Leader of Njiko Igbo Forum, has warned that Nigeria might not successfully conduct the 2027 general election if Peter Obi is prevented from appearing on the presidential ballot.

The comment followed the judgement of the Federal High Court on Friday, ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to deregister Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, as a political party.

Justice Isah Dashen, who delivered the judgment in Lokoja, according to reports, held that the earlier judgment of the court affected the rights of the Peace Movement Party, PMP, which claimed ownership of the logo adopted by the NDC.

The judge ruled that the PMP was not added as a party in the original suit despite its claim over the disputed logo.

Obioha said the agency had suffered a setback in public confidence because of what he described as inconsistent decisions and accused the current administration of weakening the institution.

He said: “The citizens of this country, the genuine citizens of this country, who are looking up to a democracy that would have been meant to be sustained and maintained are not looking at the courts at all.

“Now we have no respect for the judiciary in Nigeria. The judiciary in Nigeria is full of inconsistencies. Then, adding to the leadership of this country, the APC government of this country, that influenced what they have done since they came into power, especially since Tinubu came into power.

He has damaged the judiciary, he has messed them up.

“As for the political arrangements or pronouncements by the courts, we don’t trust them anymore because they are one of the arms of government that are weak, that should be strengthened.

“If Peter Obi is frustrated and is not on the ballot there will be no election in 2027. This is not a threat. That’s the way it’s going to turn out. I’m trying to… You can call it prophecy, if you like. I’m a reverend. Whatever you want to call it, I’m just warning Nigerians.”

“If Peter Obi, with all the struggles and the level he is now, is frustrated not to be on the ballot, there will be no election in 2027.

“And on the 29th of May next year, Tinubu will not be the president because we are tired of the system. We are weary.

“We are strangulated and the rest will be story about this country called Nigeria.”

Rivers Assembly Faults Fubara Over Late Submission Of Spending Proposal

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The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, has condemned Governor Siminalayi Fubara for submitting the state’s 2026-2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework “nine months behind the timeline prescribed by law.”

He said that the lawmakers approved it only in the interest of the state.

The reports indicated that the lawmaker voiced his reservations on Friday’s plenary, 24 hours after the MTEF was read on the floor of the House.

Amaewhule, in a statement by his media aide, Martins Wachukwu, said that Section 10(1)(b) of the Rivers State Fiscal Responsibility Law No. 8 of 2010 mandated the MTEF to be laid before the House in September 2025, four months before the start of the next financial year.

“However, in the interest of the state, the House thought it expedient to deliberate on the document, which is a precursor to the State’s 2026 Budget Estimate, even though the year is already half gone,” the statement said.

It said the lawmakers looked into the assumptions in the MTEF and agreed that if well executed, would be in the interest of the people of Rivers.

It added that the Speaker put the question and members voted affirmatively “based on the MTEF being given positive consideration by members.”

On Friday, the House also received a petition from the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Dr Gift Worlu, through the member representing Obio/Akpor Constituency II, Hon. Emilia Amadi, on alleged imminent security breach, threats to lives, destruction of property and attempt to forcefully take over property by some persons in the local government area.

Amadi while presenting the petition urged the House to look into the matter and take necessary steps to protect lives and property in the affected communities.

The Assembly last met in February, when it vetted commissioner nominees sent over by the governor before adjourning indefinitely.

Thursday it was reconvened after about three months.

Uba Sani Critic’s Arrest Sparks Outcry As Amnesty Demands Release

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Amnesty International has condemned the arrest and continued detention of Mr. Jonah Bonet, better known as “Pompo,” and called the arrest arbitrary and a violation of his right to freedom of expression.

In a statement issued on its official X account on Saturday, the rights organisation called for the immediate and unconditional release of Bonet.

Amnesty International said Bonet was arrested just for criticizing the Kaduna State Government and Governor Uba Sani in a viral video on social media.

Mr. Bonet is innocent of any crime and his arrest is a clear abuse of power. “It is his right to criticise any official of the government, whatever his position or status,” the organisation said.

Armed operatives attached to “Operation Fushin Kada” invaded Bonet’s residence in Abuja at about 8:15 p.m. on June 23, 2026 and whisked him away at gunpoint in the presence of his wife and kids, Amnesty said.

The organisation also claimed that Bonet’s family and legal representatives have been denied access to him, while security agencies have refused to reveal his whereabouts.

It accused Nigerian security agencies of failing to follow due process and of allowing themselves to be used to suppress dissent through arbitrary arrests and detentions.
“Nigerian security agencies must always uphold due process of law and not become a tool in the hands of politicians by carrying out arbitrary arrest, detention and other undue restrictions of the rights of individuals to the legitimate exercise of their freedom of expression and opinion,” Amnesty said.

The group also accused the Kaduna State Government of heightening repression by cracking down on critics, warning that it was creating “a toxic climate of fear” in the state.

It further accused Governor Uba Sani of intolerance to criticism, insisting that no citizen ought to be punished for expressing opinion on elected public officials.

Amnesty International also warned of what it called increasing intimidation of Nigerians who use social media to comment on political and social issues, saying attempts to stifle online criticism are a violation of basic human rights.

The organisation urged the authorities to immediately release Bonet and respect the rights guaranteed under Nigerian law and international human rights standards.

At the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government and security agencies have not responded to the allegations by Amnesty International.

Nigerians Turning Remi Tinubu’s Honest Counsel Into Controversy, Says Igbokwe

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APC chieftain, Joe Igbokwe has lambasted Nigerians over the attacks on First Lady, Remi Tinubu after she encouraged Nigerians to consider small-scale ventures such as selling akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli.

Remi made the remarks while speaking with journalists after the second quarter meeting of the Renewed Hope Initiative with the wives of state governors at the State House, Abuja on Wednesday.

On the activities of the Renewed Hope Initiative, the First Lady said the programme had been giving out grants, not loans, to vulnerable Nigerians to enable them start businesses and better their livelihoods.

“We’re trying to give hope, and starting Akara business doesn’t take a lot of money,” she said. Nothing to start roasting corn, or somebody even said kuli kuli. We didn’t loan it to them, we gave it to them as a grant.

“So we’ve encouraged Nigerians as best we can. I have given what we have at hand, and I keep on giving.”

However, many Nigerians interpreted the advice as an insult and took to social media to lambast Remi Tinubu.

Reacting to the backlash, Igbokwe on Saturday in a post on his Facebook page attacked the netizens asking why the First Lady is being attacked for giving honest advice.

The present generation frightens me to the marrows, he wrote. An honest advice HE Oluremi Tinubu gave to young Nigerians on how to help themselves has become a tool to abuse and to pour invectives.

Truth, even spoken, is a tool to unleash scurrilous drivels in the Social Media.

We go learn las las. Look at the empty heads and headless mobs dancing naked in the public space right and left. Awon werey everywhere. I am ashamed”.

Lagos-Ogun Police Crackdown: Four Kidnappers Neutralized, Four Hostages Rescued

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Four armed kidnappers have been killed by police operatives during a joint operation between the Lagos and Ogun Police Commands codenamed ‘Operation Kosaye’.

The operation, which was an initiative of the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu and supported by the governors of Lagos and Ogun, also led to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers when operatives stormed Area J4 Forest, Ogbere, Ogun State on Friday night.
In a rescue operation involving over 300 police men, five travelers abducted at the Ogbere axis of Lagos-Sagamu-Benin Expressway on Thursday evening were successfully rescued.

During operation, sophisticated firearms such as AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, locally-made pistols, ammunition, mobile phones, communication equipment and other items were also recovered.

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun, Bode Ojajuni, told journalists at the official launch of ‘Operation Kosaye’ at the Nigeria Police Training School, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State, on Saturday that the joint operation was a security initiative between the Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands.

The codename of the operation, which literally translates to “there is no hiding place for criminals” in the Yoruba language, was initiated by the Inspector-General of Police with the full support of the governments of Lagos and Ogun states, which have provided the necessary logistics to ensure its success, he said.

The Ogun CP who was flanked by his Lagos State counterpart, Tijani Fatai said the main objective of the joint operation was to stamp out kidnapping and other violent crimes in the two states.

“It is also targeted at clearing forests, hideouts and other criminal enclaves across the vast border communities between Lagos and Ogun states.

“We are here to reassure members of the public that the police are committed to restoring confidence and ensuring safety of lives and property.

“Many criminal hideouts have been busted from the operations so far. I can tell you there are no known victims being held by kidnappers in the operational areas of this exercise as I speak.

“Our operatives have swept and cleared several forest corridors and border communities spanning both states. These include the Kara Bridge axis, Long Bridge corridor, areas around Sagamu, Ogere and other adjoining communities, extending to Ikorodu and bordering settlements. We have also destroyed criminal hideouts, cleared illegal shanties used as cover and arrested several suspects.

One of the major breakthroughs recorded during the operation was the rescue of five kidnapped victims along the Ijebu-Ode corridor following the directive of the Inspector General of Police.

“Four suspected kidnappers were neutralised and four others arrested in the course of the rescue operation. In addition, 84 more suspects were arrested in the ongoing operation in Lagos and Ogun states.

“We are therefore appealing to members of the public not to panic whenever they see heavy deployment or movement of police personnel. The operation is ongoing and our officers will sustain the offensive against criminal elements.

“We also urge the public to report any persons seen with suspicious gunshot wounds or any information that may assist ongoing investigations.

The Nigeria Police Force remains fully committed to the protection of residents of Lagos and Ogun states and the eradication of all criminal elements in our communities, Ojajuni said.

CP Tijani Fatai of Lagos State Police Command, said in his remarks that he was happy that the joint operation had started yielding significant results.

He noted that the operation had commenced as criminal elements had established camps in thick forests and border communities connecting Lagos and Ogun states, some of which he said were hideouts for kidnappers and other violent criminals.

“The objective of this joint operation was to deny the criminals the possibility to use these forests as safe havens. Our personnel have methodically combed these areas, dismantled criminal camps and re-established security in the corridors concerned.

“This exercise is not a one-time operation. It is ongoing and will continue as long as needed to assure that people in both states can go about their lawful business without fear.

“We want to assure the people of Lagos and Ogun that the Nigeria Police Force is fully committed to securing every part of these states. “The Inspector-General of Police has provided the necessary leadership and operational support for the success of this initiative.

“I also want to sincerely appreciate the Governors of Lagos and Ogun states for their unalloyed support, particularly in providing the logistics to make this operation effective.

The results are self-explanatory. You have seen the victims rescued, the suspects arrested, the firearms recovered, and other evidence displayed here today. These achievements show that this is a serious and coordinated effort to address insecurity.

“This collaborative approach among neighbouring state police commands shall continue and I believe, shall be replicated across other parts of the country where similar security challenges exist”, CP Tijani submitted.

Peace Initiative: NGO Commits to Stabilising Igboland

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A non-governmental organization (NGO) called One Click Access Career Builders Foundation has developed plans for the restoration of peace and stability in South East Nigeria because it is disturbed by the instability in many Igboland communities and wants to see peace as the essential peak for development and transformation.

The equally non-political group’s president, Mr. Emmanuel Ezeji, revealed this in a press release he signed on the group’s behalf on Tuesday.

Ezeji revealed that the Igbo Peace Project has been initiated by the NGO, beginning in the communities of Amasiri and Okporojo in Ebonyi State’s Oso Edda Local Government Area.

He noted that efforts are now focused on resolving the complaints of the people and each community because the South-East geopolitical region, which includes the States of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo, has been experiencing severe economic disruption, growing insecurity, social tensions, and deepening divisions sparked by numerous agitations, wranglings, and bickering.

He bemoaned how the formerly tranquil South East has become a Dane of violence and unmanageable conflicts, weakening ties and impeding the region’s growth and governmental administrative objectives.

Additionally, the effects of protracted war and mistrust have eroded community ties and deterred diaspora participation in the area.

“Many have been killed, traditional rulers have left their ancestral homes and kingdoms to live in hotels, and beautiful homes and mansions have grown grasses because the owners could no longer access them,” he said.

Delta APC State Congress Faces Backlash as Top Leaders Shun Event, Demand Cancellation

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Chief Solomon Arenyeka, the recently elected chairman of the All Progressive’s Congress (APC), has pledged to put an end to the animosity and hostility that previously defined the party. The chairman set the tone for the new direction by emphasizing the importance of peace in his opening remarks during the swearing-in. Chief Arenyeka’s move toward reconciliation had a quick and impressive knock-on impact. In a healthy takeoff, it was anticipated that former principle officers who lost their jobs after a new team was elected would abandon partisanship in order to contribute to issues, particularly those of interest and imputance to the party. He concluded that members and everyone else have to be forgiving, understanding, and trusting of one another. The chairman called on all members of the party to get past the chaos that marked the congressional process.

Chief Arenyeka’s white outfit seemed to fit very nicely with his amicable demeanor.

Chief Efe Uko became State Secretary, while Elder Moses Iduh was chosen as Deputy Chairman. Chief Paulinus Akpeki, the chairman of Delta Central, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, the chairman of Delta South, and Engineer are additional officials chosen by consensus. Elder Emmanuel Egbabor, State Organizing Secretary, Barr, and Daniel Ossai, Chairman of Delta North. Mrs. Ifeyinwa Sobotie is the State Woman Leader, Christopher Agali is the State Youth Leader, and Valentine Onojeghuo is the State Publicity Secretary.

State Congress Electoral Committee Chairman, Engr. Following their confirmation by delegates, Vita Abba declared the new executive elected, claiming that the procedure adhered to the party’s rules and constitution.

Prior to this, previous Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Mr. In order to make room for new leadership, Victor Ochei proposed that the State Working Committee be dissolved. Olorogun O’tega Emerhor seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.

Speaking to party supporters, Governor Oborevwori praised the departing leadership, headed by Elder Omeni Sobotie, for leading the party through what he called a pivotal phase of transition after the state’s political realignment in April 2025.

“I stand before you today with a deep sense of responsibility and optimism about our great party’s bright prospects,” the governor declared. “What started out as a moral choice to align Delta State with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s revitalized vision has developed into a potent and unstoppable political movement.”

He commended party members for their unity and discipline, citing the peaceful conduct of congresses in the state, 25 local government areas, and 270 wards as proof of the APC’s internal democracy.

“No imposition occurred. We saw widespread participation, consensus, and inclusivity. All of us own this structure,” he said.

Prioritizing frequent meetings, strengthening grassroots involvement, and stepping up voter mobilization before 2027 were among Oborevwori’s tasks for the incoming executive.

“Our goal is clear-cut. He proclaimed, “We must secure victory at every level: the Presidency, Senate, House of Representatives, Governorship, and State House of Assembly.” He expressed confidence that President Tinubu and other party candidates will receive resounding votes from the Delta APC.

Citing accomplishments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, agriculture, security, and human capital development, the governor reiterated his administration’s dedication to openness, responsibility, and performance under the MORE Agenda.

Elder Omeni Sobotie, the departing State Chairman, said in his speech that the congress was the result of unity and joint sacrifice.

He urged the new leadership to exercise humility, saying, “In politics, what we have is not ‘I’ but ‘we.’ The interest of the people is more important than personal interests.” “A man may rise to the top with ability, but humility keeps him there.”

Arenyeka praised party leaders and members for their trust in him and the new SWC during his acceptance speech.

“I do not take this responsibility lightly; I am fully aware of its weight. We are honored to serve, and we promise to live up to the trust placed in us,” he stated.

He gave members his word that the new executive would maintain responsibility and consensus-building inside the party while upholding diligence, honesty, openness, and collaboration.

Arenyeka also praised Governor Oborevwori for his unity and leadership, promising that Delta APC will become an example for other states under his chairmanship.

“Our leader has given us the order to march. We will deliver all APC candidates in the 2027 elections, by God’s grace,” he said.

Party leaders and stakeholders from all around the state attended the congress, which culminated in a heated celebration as the Delta APC formally installed its new leadership in front of the upcoming election cycle.

Some prominent political figures and chieftains, including some elected individuals, were absent from the well-attended state congress.

Governor Oborevwori joked, “Those who did not attend are not from Delta,” as he acknowledged and thanked party supporters for the big turnout.

The Delta APC coalition has already demanded that the alleged state congress be immediately called off. calling it a big joke and kangaroo.

The Delta State APC Coalition for Equity asserted in a sharply worded statement on Monday, March 2, 2026, that a number of candidates from the former APC bloc who purchased for the State Chairmanship nomination forms were purposefully refused access to them despite their complete adherence to party rules.

The group said that this essentially prevents eligible card-carrying members from taking part in the party’s internal democratic process, characterizing the reluctance to issue the forms as “exclusion through administrative obstruction.”

The coalition warned that the APC should not be reduced to “a platform where outcomes are predetermined and aspirants screened out through technical maneuvers,” adding that “this pattern raises serious concerns about transparency, equity, and adherence to due process.”

Additionally, the alliance claimed that members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Governor Oborevwori, had just defected and were unduly influencing the congress arrangements.

It specifically cited “credible fears” of a planned scheme to appoint Elder Moses Idu as Deputy Chairman and Chief Solomon Arayinka, a former Delta State PDP Chairman, as APC State Chairman. It cautioned that this would amount to “a transfer of PDP leadership structure into the APC.”

The statement emphasized that “Delta APC is not an annex of any other political formation” and stated that “if accurate, such action would marginalize foundational members who built this party through sacrifice and resilience.”

According to the group, the purported anomalies have caused significant dissatisfaction among devoted members throughout the state and may undermine party cohesion prior to the general elections in 2027.

In a sharp turn of events, the coalition warned APC supporters in Delta State not to travel to Asaba for the planned congress on Tuesday, March 3, claiming that doing so would validate “an already decided congress.”

The statement stated that taking part in a compromised kangaroo exercise would only serve to legitimize injustice and undermine the legitimacy of our party structures.

The coalition called for the congress to be rescheduled to a new date so that all card-carrying members could vote in a free and inclusive process and demanded that nomination forms be made immediately available to all candidates who had paid for them.

Additionally, it made a direct request to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Professor Nentawe, the National Chairman of the APC, and members of the National Working Committee to step in immediately, look into the alleged anomalies, and rebuild the process’ credibility.

The alliance declared, “Our demand is simple: fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all aspirants,” cautioning that postponing justice at this crucial juncture might have far-reaching effects on party unity and election prospects.

Acting Chairman Ambassador Felix Datuowei, Acting Secretary General Kenchad Rafua, and Chief Alex Ikpeazu, who is reportedly an excluded candidate for the Delta State APC presidency, signed the statement.

In the meantime, Jarrett Tenebe’s newly elected Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) executive has endorsed Governor Monday Okpebholo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for second terms in power, noting their “outstanding performance.”

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, party delegates from all 192 Edo State wards gathered at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Hub in Benin City to choose new executive members. The delegates reinstated Tenebe’s 36-member state executive for a further four-year term in a unanimous voice affirmation.

Tenebe stated in his acceptance address that the re-elected executive had publicly approved Governor Okpebholo and President Tinubu for second terms, pointing out that both leaders had shown excellent performance and enhanced the lives of Edo citizens and Nigerians.

Citing what he called “quality representation,” Tenebe also declared his support for Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and senator from the Edo North Senatorial District, to serve a second term in the Senate.

Tenebe declared, “This unanimous voice affirmation is a call to duty, and we are ready to fulfill our responsibility and ensure the party continues to put Edo people first while supporting the governor to sustain his developmental strides in the state.”

He promised that the team would steer the party’s affairs to new heights and praised delegates for their unwavering faith in the executive. Tenebe also expressed gratitude to party members for their steadfast support, which he claimed allowed the party to persevere through difficult times and maintain unity.

“A new chapter has begun today, and other states in the federation are already using it as a model and point of reference. He continued, “The race ahead is a marathon that will span the next four years. We have been given the baton of leadership.”

Tenebe pointed out that the time frame aligns with the execution of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which he defined as a revolutionary plan to reposition Edo State for sustainable growth. He reiterated that the APC is still totally dedicated to helping the agenda be carried out successfully.

The National Congress Committee Chairman, Hon. According to Kabiru Ajana, the committee’s task was to hold elections for the 36 open APC leadership posts in Edo State.

He claimed that since all 36 posts were returned without opposition following the screening process and no appeals were filed, the exercise showed unity within the party.

The congress’s president, Ajana, praised the governor for encouraging harmony within the Edo APC and urged other states to follow suit.

Speaking as well, Oshiomhole expressed gratitude to the delegates for re-electing the Tenebe-led administration, characterizing the process as smooth and emblematic of Edo State party unity.

“I want to thank all of the delegates for a smooth exercise that represents the party’s unity in Edo State.” This solidarity sends a strong message about Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. We honor the governor for the party’s cohesion,” he declared.

Minister for Regional Development Abubakar Momoh, the Deputy Governor, and other dignitaries attended the state congress. Mr. Edo State Government Secretary, Barr, is Dennis Idahosa. Musa Ikhilor, as well as other influential party figures.

Due to Uzodimma’s performance, PDP members in Imo empty into the APC

In a different event, on Monday, March 2, 2026, Governor Hope Uzodimma enthusiastically welcomed 1320 defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the All Progressives Congress (APC). This action has further crippled Nigeria’s political powerhouse.

Their choice to join his party, according to Uzodimma, is a step toward unification and faster growth in Imo State.

Speaking to the new APC members in the Sam Mbakwe Executive Council Chambers in Government House Owerri, Uzodimma stated that the change was about “a new trajectory of development” for the State rather than political history.

“This choice is made for the benefit of our people, not for personal benefit. “We all own the government of Imo State,” he declared.

The governor emphasized the importance of shared accountability in governance, pointing out that infrastructural issues and insecurity call for cooperation.

He promised to work closely with the new APC members and consider some of them for jobs, assuring them of equal rights and opportunities.

In addition, Uzodimma emphasized the Igbo people’s historical contributions to Nigeria’s growth and urged a renewed sense of cohesion and concentration. “We need to go ahead, not backward. “Our State’s and our people’s interests are the common denominator,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the APC leadership for welcoming the defectors without prejudice.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman for Imo State, Sir MacDonald Ebere, expressed happiness that several excellent PDP members had joined the party and promised the defectors full recognition and equal standing inside the organization.

They are the “substance and oxygen” of the PDP, according to Sir Ebere, who also noted that their decision to join the APC signaled a dramatic change in Imo State politics.

He urged the new members not to worry about being left out and commended Governor Uzodimma for bringing the State together via inclusive leadership. He stated that everyone is still welcome and that “you will retain your status and even be better recognized in the APC.”

The Hopism Movement’s coordinator, Evangelist Mike Ikoku, led the defectors, who admitted that every member had quit the PDP and was now properly registered with the APC.

He said that the defectors include former members of the Party’s State Working Committee, past Local Government Party Chairmen, former State Organizing Secretary, former PDP Financial Secretary and Legal Advisor, former House of Assembly candidates, and their supporters.

Declaring their delight, Hon. Former PDP House of Assembly candidate Jeff Nwachukwu, Mr. Mike Nkwocha, Ugorji Onuegbu, and other speakers emphasized that Governor Uzodimma’s leadership acumen and performance were the reasons behind their decision to join the APC.

They begged the Governor to welcome them as repentant and enlightened prodigal sons into the APC fold.

They pledged their allegiance to the APC principles and insisted that their defection was an indication of their support for good governance in the State and the country.

Condolence Visit: Yilwatda Comforts Kano Chief of Staff on Mother’s Death

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Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), visited Kano State to offer his Chief of Staff, Mustapha Dawaki, condolences for the loss of his mother.
Professor Yilwatda offered the Dawaki family his sincere sympathies during the visit to Kano, characterizing the late matriarch as a woman whose ideals and legacy are obvious in her son’s character and public service.

83-year-old Hajiya Binta Bala died following a protracted illness.

According to Islamic customs, her janaza (funeral) prayers were held last Saturday at the Dawakin Kudu Central Mosque in Dawaki Town.

He prayed for her soul to rest in peace and for the bereaved family to have courage and solace at this trying time.

During the visit, the APC National Chairman took a tour of the Police Private School (PPS), Dawkin Nkudu, which was founded by Hon. Dawaki to increase the state’s access to high-quality education.

The school, which has expanded to over 700 students in less than two and a half years, is one of Dawaki’s many empowerment initiatives to improve communities and make investments in human capital.

As an academic man, Professor Yilwatda praised Hon. Dawaki for his vision and dedication to education, pointing out that intentional investments in character development and knowledge are the first steps toward sustainable development.

He described the school as a light for molding Nigeria’s future leaders and commended the administration and personnel for their commitment, professionalism, and nurturing environment.

Residents of Dawkin Nkudu and the adjacent communities welcomed the APC National Chairman with great enthusiasm during the condolence visit, demonstrating Hon. Dawaki’s strong grassroots contacts and popularity in the region.

In closing, Professor Yilwatda urged ongoing community-focused projects that uplift youth, promote social cohesiveness, and reaffirm the APC’s dedication to people-centered development nationwide.