The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for addressing President Bola Tinubu as “Bola”, accusing the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate of allowing political ambition to undermine his statesmanship.

The APC PCC spokesperson and Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, stated this on Monday, arguing that Atiku had failed to demonstrate the decorum expected of a former vice-president and a presidential aspirant.

Atiku has repeatedly referred to the President by his first name rather than his official title. He has also described Tinubu’s administration as a “Yahoo Yahoo” government, accused it of dishonesty and questioned the President’s educational background.

Reacting to the controversy, Alake said the APC was concerned about what it considered disrespect for the office of the President, adding that Atiku’s conduct fell short of the standards expected of someone seeking the nation’s highest office.

“Since Alhaji Atiku lost the last presidential election, he has allowed political animosity and uncontrollable ambition to rob him of the statesmanship that should guide his public conduct and utterances,” Alake said.

He further accused the former vice-president of setting a poor example for younger politicians through his public comments and political conduct.

Despite its criticism, the APC campaign council urged its leaders, spokespersons, members and support groups to continue treating Atiku with the respect due to a former vice-president and presidential candidate.

Alake said the party would not mirror what it described as Atiku’s approach to political engagement, insisting that its campaign would focus on issues affecting Nigerians, the party’s programmes and Tinubu’s record in office.

According to him, the APC intends to highlight the administration’s efforts to move the country from economic reforms to prosperity as Tinubu seeks a second term.

The council maintained that its campaign would prioritise policy discussions and the President’s achievements rather than personal exchanges with political opponents.

By: Fabian Apechihin

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has described the late Chief Audu Ogbeh as a selfless leader who dedicated his life to the service of others, praying that God grants him eternal rest in paradise.

Speaking in a video shared by Symfoni TV, El-Rufai acknowledged that Ogbeh was a Catholic, not a Muslim, but said he would continue to pray that Allah admits him into Al-Jannah Firdaus because “he is deserving of it.”

Holding back tears, the former governor praised Ogbeh as “a good man” who touched many lives and left behind a legacy of service. He also recalled Ogbeh’s achievements as Minister of Agriculture, noting that under his leadership Nigeria ended its heavy reliance on rice imports.

“Before his reforms, Nigeria was spending five million dollars monthly on rice imports, but that figure dropped to zero during his tenure,” El-Rufai said.

He prayed for comfort for Ogbeh’s family and loved ones, adding: “I will keep praying for Audu Ogbeh, a Catholic and not a Muslim, so that Allah would grant him entrance to Al-Jannah Firdaus. What a great man he was.”

Do you want me to make this more emotional and tribute-like (focusing on Ogbeh’s character and legacy), or keep it strictly factual and political?

I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a man whose life continues to illuminate the path of honour, courage, and patriotism: Colonel Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (Rtd.), on the occasion of his 76th birthday. It is not only a moment of personal reflection but a national milestone, as we honour a soldier, statesman, pro-democracy icon, and moral conscience of our nation.

Colonel Umar stands tall among Nigeria’s most principled voices; his name evoking an unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and democratic ideals. In the tumultuous days following the annulment of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, when many chose silence or self-preservation, he chose the difficult path of truth. He risked his career, comfort, and personal safety by speaking out in defence of Chief MKO Abiola’s stolen mandate, despite being a senior member of the ruling military council. It was a singular act of bravery that not only inspired a generation but redefined the meaning of loyalty to country over convenience.

As a young civil rights activist in those difficult days, I found in Colonel Umar not just a role model, but a moral compass. He demonstrated to us that true leadership is not merely about wielding power, but standing firm in defence of what is right, even at great personal cost. His resignation from the Nigerian Army at a time when he stood poised for further elevation is perhaps one of the most courageous acts in our political history.

As Governor of Kaduna State today, I draw deep inspiration from his sterling example of inclusive leadership. His tenure as military governor of this great state remains a reference point for fairness, balance, and peacebuilding. In a deeply diverse and, at times, fractured society, he governed with wisdom, compassion, and an unshakeable belief in our shared humanity.

Colonel Umar’s transcendence of ethnic and religious divides has never required a denial of his own identity. Rather, he has drawn strength from it: his noble Fulani lineage, his deep Islamic faith, and his enduring belief that justice is the foundation of peace.

I am proud to stand among those who celebrate him, not only for his past heroism, but for his continued voice of conscience in our national life. I also warmly commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honouring him with the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), a richly deserved recognition.

Happy 76th birthday, our highly revered Colonel Dangiwa Umar. May your legacy continue to inspire generations to come.

Senator Uba Sani, CON
Governor, Kaduna State