The immediate past Governor of Benue State and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom has reiterated his commitment to strengthening the party to reclaim power in the state, come 2027.

He stated this on Friday at his Judges Quarters residence in Makurdi while hosting members of the PDP G-14 and other critical stakeholders of the party from the 14 local government areas in Zones A and B parts of the state.

Chief Ortom reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, dispelling speculations by what he described as “mischief makers” about his alleged plan to defect, stressing that the party would emerge stronger and united, ahead of the 2027 polls.

The former governor called on stakeholders to remain resolute and committed to rebuilding the PDP, stating that though he wouldn’t be contesting personally, he would stand solidly behind the party’s candidates to record victories, advising PDP aspirants to consult widely and not be discouraged by the wave of defections to the ruling party.

In his remarks, the leader of the PDP G-14, Dr. Laha Dzever, who spoke on behalf of the forum, pledged continued support and loyalty to Chief Ortom, appreciating what he described as his purposeful leadership.

Also speaking, the State Deputy Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Azua Ashongo, advised stakeholders in the various local government areas to present only credible candidates for the next elections. He noted that this was necessary to ensure the party’s victory and to sustain Chief Ortom’s efforts to strengthen the PDP. Ashongo also commended Ortom for his sacrifices for the party and urged others to emulate his example.

Similarly, Ambassador Chive Kaave assured Chief Ortom of the commitment of Zone A members of the party to align with his plans to return the party to power and promote development. Senator Fred Orti gave similar assurances on behalf of Zone B.

Others who spoke included Rt. Hon. William Ortyom, representing PDP members in the Benue State House of Assembly; Hon. Simon Anyamkande, for PDP chairmen in the 14 Tiv-speaking local governments; Mrs. Veronica Gajir, for women; and Joel Iyua Kôrinjô, for the youths.

The meeting was attended by serving and former members of the PDP National Executive Committee, former members of the Board of Trustees, local government party chairmen, national delegates, former aspirants, former government appointees, former council chairmen, National Assembly aspirants, members of the State Working Committee, and other party officials and stakeholders.

By: Fabian Apechihin

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Secretariat in Ekiti State has been set on fire by suspected political thugs believed to be affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The attack, which occurred late Monday night, left the entire building in ruins — destroying furniture, campaign materials, and important party documents.

A video posted on the ADC’s official Facebook page shows the Secretariat engulfed in flames, with shattered windows, burnt signboards, and debris scattered across the premises.

Reacting to the incident, the ADC accused its political opponents of masterminding the attack in an attempt to intimidate its members and halt the party’s growing popularity in the state.

“Our Party Secretariat was set ablaze by those threatened by the rising momentum and strong organisational structure the Ekiti ADC is building. This cowardly act is regrettable, but it will only strengthen our resolve and unity. The formidable Ekiti ADC has come to stay,”
the party said in a statement.

The incident reportedly occurred just hours before the party’s Reconfiguration and Affirmation Ceremony for its ward, local government, senatorial, and state executives.

Despite the destruction, ADC leaders vowed to remain undeterred:

“Our spirit remains unbroken; our vision, unstoppable,” the statement added.

As of the time of this report, the Ekiti State Police Command has yet to release an official statement or confirm any arrests related to the attack.

By: Fabian Apechihin

A major crisis is unfolding within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the party has suspended its National Vice Chairman (South-South) and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Usani Uguru Usani, with immediate effect.

The suspension, announced on Monday in Abuja, follows a resolution reached during the Cross River State Working Committee (SWC) meeting held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

In a statement signed by James Otudor, one of the party’s State Publicity Secretaries, the ADC accused Usani of actions “detrimental to the unity and progress of the party,” adding that his recent conduct violated the ADC constitution.

According to the statement, the SWC deliberated on several petitions and reports alleging anti-party activities, insubordination to constituted authority, and conduct capable of damaging the party’s image and electoral prospects.

“In line with the ADC constitution and disciplinary procedures, Dr. Usani’s suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of a formal investigation by the appropriate party organs,” the statement read.

The committee also expressed dissatisfaction over the appointment of Ms. Jackie Wayas as Deputy National Publicity Secretary, saying the decision was made without consultation with the state leadership. It further alleged that Wayas had not engaged with the Cross River ADC leadership since her appointment and questioned her commitment to the party’s unity and growth.

“Consequently, the SWC urges the National Leadership to review her appointment and replace her with a competent, credible, and media-savvy individual from Cross River State who has demonstrated loyalty to the ideals of the ADC,” the committee stated.

The SWC also raised concerns over some members of the Coalition Movement who publicly declared support for the ADC but failed to complete their registration months later. It warned against dual membership and cautioned that the party would not serve as a platform for individuals maintaining allegiance to multiple political groups.

The statement directed all coalition members and new entrants to complete their registration at their ward levels within seven days—ending Saturday, October 25, 2025—or face exclusion from leadership and decision-making structures within the party.

“We urge all members to remain calm, law-abiding, and steadfast as the party’s internal mechanisms for discipline, justice, and accountability take their full course,” the statement concluded.