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OPONION: What manner of campaigns for 2027 race?

Published

3 weeks ago

August 24, 2026

BY VICTORIA NGOZI IKEANO

victoriangozii@gmail.com 08033077519

Nigeria and Nigerians are entering election mode as campaigns for the January 2027 presidential/national assembly polls has officially commenced with those for governorship/state houses of assembly to follow suit. Soon, our airwaves shall be filled with slogans and songs of the various contestants, giant billboards of candidates and their respective political parties shall spring up in our city centres, their posters shall abound on our streets, there shall be political advertorials in our national dailies and the internet. Political agents may even knock on our doors soliciting our votes for their principals and parties. However, the question is: Will campaigns for the 2027 race be any different from that for the 2023 polls?

Campaigns for the latter were to say the least toxic. The whole environment was fouled by unmitigated filth arising from intemperate language, character assassination and the like which soon infected a large proportion of our populace .Under these rather foreboding atmosphere, it was somehow difficult to breathe freely so to speak. And so, many longed for the 2023 polls to come and end quickly so that we could inhale some fresh air in a calm atmosphere. Alas, this was only temporary, never permanent. For, to-date, deep seated hatred and bitterness still linger among some Nigerians over outcomes of those elections, not least the presidential result. Our nation remains divided.

Yet, politics is a game — you win some, lose some. Besides happenings in our country show that to be Nigeria’s number one citizen is a long term project that requires patience, commitment and strategy, that a contestant rarely gets crowned at the first shot as happened with a former president who succeeded at the fourth attempt. Above all, being a national election, winning requires collaboration, handshakes across all divides, joining of hands between the northern and southern regions. In this regard all peoples, all zones should be esteemed, not denigrated covertly or overtly for whatever reason.

Each zone/region has its strong points as well as weaknesses. Each is blessed with certain resources which the other is not so endowed with and so each has its own comparative advantage over the other. Thus mutual exchange is necessary, in accordance with the law of giving and taking, to be able to derive maximum benefits for the good of all Nigerians. Therefore, all parts of Nigeria should be equally developed. Justice and love towards all constituent parts/zones/regions should be the watch word of any Nigerian leader. That way our diversity becomes a strength for upward progressive development in harmonious relationships rather than a source for constant rumblings and disharmony…

As in the last race the principal contenders for 2027 elections are same, namely Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.   But the political environment is no longer similar. For one, Nigeria’s oldest party in this Republic, since return to civilian rule in 1999 (PDP) which had always performed creditably well in all elections since then, is no longer competitive. Secondly, both Atiku and Obi have left the platforms on which they contested last time and are now campaigning under hitherto, relatively unknown parties, viz, African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). More importantly, Candidate Tinubu in 2023 race is now President Tinubu. Candidate Tinubu in 2023 did not have complete control of his campaigns as such as the then ruling government under the then outgoing president constituted the presidential campaign structure. Tinubu then set up his own Independent Campaign Council (ICC) to “complement” the APC/federal government’s own structure. As president, Tinubu shall now have absolute control of his campaigns and structures.

They are likely to be anchored on his administration’s Renewed Hope mantra. Already Renewed Hope Ambassadors have been launched in several states and at zonal levels led by a director and coordinator respectively. There is also the City Boy movement led by Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son. It appears this movement targets the upwardly mobile youths to leverage on their capacity. And lately, the PBAT Door to Door movement was launched. Of course there would be several quasi-official and voluntary support groups specifically for women, youths, the physically challenged and so on; not forgetting the all-encompassing Jagaban army, Asiwaju Mandate group, etc,. Overall, Tinubu’s campaign structure would be a multi layered one comprising of a Presidential Campaign Council headed by a director-general, Renewed Hope Ambassadors, City Boy movement, Door to Door movement and countless support groups set up by officials and private individuals, targeting different segments of society.

For Peter Obi, his new party, NDC, may set up a Presidential Campaign Council in which it would have a big input after consultations with its flag bearer and vice presidential candidate. His campaigns would be ably supported by the OK (Obi/Kwankwaso) movement and of course, the ubiquitous army of “Obidients”, both of which may have their own different structures of a director-general, directors and coordinators. Some of his ardent followers are also mooting a “Village Boy” movement. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Wazirin Adamawa, an experienced politician would definitely have a strong campaign organisation with good structures.

      Surrounded by these massive structures what will be the kernel of the contestants’/supporters’ campaign speeches/messages at various rallies, platforms and fora? Would they be issue-based, essentially telling teeming Nigerian masses how they would make the dividends of democracy trickle down to them; or would they be full of bile, personal attacks and insults on their opponents? As I stated earlier last general elections campaigns were combustible, toxic. Many Nigerians are hoping that those for the 2027 race would be decent. In this regard it may be necessary to establish a National Ombudsman Committee, made up of stakeholders, to set minimum standards, detailing words that are acceptable and those that are not acceptable during these campaign periods across all channels of mass communication. The various contestants themselves could be made to commit themselves to jettison uncouth, divisive language and to demand same from their supporters/followers. It would be similar to the Peace accords that gubernatorial and presidential candidates sign agreeing to uphold peace throughout the process. Such agreements are not wholly binding because we still witness pockets of violence during elections.

         In same vein I do not expect any commitment by our political actors to tone down their intemperate language during this campaign to curb such excesses 100 percent. This is understandable because here in this dense, heavy, coarse earth, both the good and the bad co-exist; unlike other planes in creation where homogeneity prevails strictly, permitting of no mixing. So, some people fall to temptations from out of the darkness to step out of line and behave in ways that are in contrast to those of a true humanity…

         Before now, a precedent never seen in our country in the quest for political power unfolded. It is a dangerous, deeply troubling move that takes political contest to an unprecedented new level. This is an attempt to get a foreign country or rather to lobby a ‘super power’ to influence Nigeria’s elections, directly or indirectly. Specifically one of the presidential candidates reportedly hired a United States of America-based lobby company for a whopping $1.2 million to literally dig up dirt on Nigeria’s current president, lay this on President Donald Trump’s table and then get him to take decisive action against the president. On this issue, former Rights activist and politician, Shehu Sani stated, “Engaging US lobby groups to criminalise the president and his administration and curry favour from the US government is unconscionable and unpatriotic”. The president’s lawyers maintain that he was “never arrested, indicted, arraigned or convicted of a drug offence in the United States”.
Victoria Ngozi Ikeano a former editor at old Daily Times wrote via victoriangozii@gmail.com
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Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

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FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

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2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

6 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.