News
Parties In Stormy Ride To Campaign Kick Offs
***Internal wranglings Rock APC and PDP
By: Politics Editor
Political parties are getting set for the formal start of their campaigns for next year’s election, by the end of this month, all being well.
But virtually all the leading parties are either emersed in one crisis or the other, or are smarting from one.
Some of the disagreements arose from internal party struggles for the control of the soul of the parties or from the manner of the emergence of their standard bearers.
In the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, the party is still battling to calm frayed nerves over its Muslim/Muslim Presidential ticket, even as Presidential aspirants during it’s last Presidential elections are giving the party additional headache.
The party has since constituted itd campaign council and appointed seasoned journalists and lawyers into its media team, with the hope of staving off criticisms over its controversial Presidential ticket.
But the constitution of the campaign council came with it’s own controversies, with the Director General, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau state, fighting hard to convince his northern Christian brothers, that, his acceptance of the position of Director General is not an anathema and without prejudice to his faith.
Lalong had to tender public apology to the body of Catholics over his comments, which was regarded as inappropriate, even as the party insists that, the emergence of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima as it’s Presidential standard bearers was the best in the circumstances.
It’s spokesman, Festus Keyamo had to often adopt a combative posture in countering criticisms against the ticket, blaming the opposition of promoting a diversionary narrative.
Key stakeholders of the APC, especially those belonging to the Christian faith have mounted criticisms against the Muslim/Muslim ticket, with some of them dumping the party outrightly.
In critiquing the choice of Tinubu and Shettima, some of the Christian APC stakeholders have been moving to stir up the minds of fellow Christians against their own party, even as they threaten to be uncooperative to the party’s programme in the campaigns and the subsequent elections.
The duo of former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Babachir Lawan and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, have been mobilizing against the choice, by visiting politicians of like minds, to garner support.
Their moves against the Muslim/Muslim ticket seems to have gained acceptance amongst many others, including Muslims, who hinged their reasons on the question of morality and national precedence, which must be upheld.
While the APC leadership would rather see the issue more from the angle of political convenience and the attendant clarification by its Presidential standard bearer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on competence, the controversy has continued to linger, even with the kick off of the campaigns drawing near.
Coming on the heels of the Muslim/Muslim ticket controversy, is the seeming passive resistance being put up by aspirants who contested with Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the primary election.
The aspirants recently shunned the Presidential standard bearer by refusing to attend a reconcilatory meeting convened in Abuja.
While all the aspirants remained passive and ostensibly uncooperative: citing improper approach, there has been palpable tension in the APC.
Both the standard bearer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, Kashim Shettima, have been traversing the country, trying to woo reluctant party stalwarts and aspirants, the refusal to attend the meeting called by Bola Ahmed Tinubu points to the fact, that the overtures seem to be yielding little or no results.
National Trail findings reveal that, the agrieved aspirants are insisting on the personal intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, both of whom must make committal statements on their stakes in the incoming Government.
Findings further reveal that, those of the Christian faith amongst the aspirants may be towing the lines of Babachir Lawan and Yakubu Dogara, to the effect that, the arrangement is heavily prejudiced against their faith.
Agsinst the reported disagreement between the camps of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu and Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s men, over the constitution of the Presidential campaign Council, the crisis in the ruling party may seriously affect the smooth take off, of it’s campaigns.
The continued passivity of key stakeholders, including it’s agrieved aspirants, may spell further doom to the APC in the days ahead.
The main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, is not in less troubled waters, as the festering disagreement between Atiku Abubakar, it’s standard bearer and Governor Nyeson Wike of Rivers State, has further torn the party into factions: each of which my work against it’s victory.
It is no longer news that, the Atiku/Nwike feud, has opened rooms for further realignment of forces, with the duo of Atiku and Nwike as the main combatants.
Reports indicate that, some elements within the Atiku Abubakar team, have worsened the situation with their utterances, while Nwike himself leads the offensive from his camp.
The Rivers strongman has been double speaking on his possible position on the 2023 election; often times giving the impression that he will work against the PDP during the Presidential elections, but will deliver on others.
Nwike is reported to be currently consulting further with APC agents in the United Kingdom, and may make known his position on the simmering Cris in when he returns.
The fiery Governor’s body language indicates that, he plans to dine with the PDP and wine with the APC, during the elections: a move that may earn him expulsion from the PDP Atiku’s men threaten.
Besides the Atiku/Nwike feud, feelers indicate that, the call for the resignation of the PDP national Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, following Atiku’s emergence as the Presidential standard bearer, may snowball into deeper crisis during the campaigns.
The calls being orchestrated from the southern part of the country has the tendency to demarket Atiku in the South, with attendant furastration of his campaign tour of the region.
Like APC’s Muslim/Muslim ticket, the concentration of key positions in the North, is perceived as a gross injustice to the Southern part of the country.
Spokespersons of the party have often attempted to explain how the case of the PDP is different from that of the APC, but agrieved interests do not appear impressed.
The Labour party is not in less crisis, with reports coming from the states of fueding over Governorship candidates, even as it’s Presidential standard bearer, Peter Obi has come under serious fire, for seeking to fund his campaigns from diaspora donations.
The NNPP has been factionalized following the exit of former Kano state Governor Ibrahim Shekarau, the nto the PDP.
Shekarau’s exit has tended to leave the NNPP in quandary and it’s Presidential standard bearer, Ishaku Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in the lurch.
The African Democratic Congress, ADC, is still battling to resolve the crisis arising from the reported expulsion f it’s Presidential standard bearer, Mr Kachukwu.
While state chairmen of the party have been reported to hav void d the reported expulsion, the other parties insist on havening their ways.
Generally, most of the leading parties may kick off their campaigns amidst to internal wranglings and public odium.
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
-
Uncategorized5 years agoFG, states urged to harness flooding for ranching, others with technology – Agbaje
-
Headlines10 years agoBreaking: EFCC seals Borno House of Assembly, as Hon members take to their heels
-
News12 years agoNigeria Security Operatives Stage Manhunt For Homosexual Perpetrator
-
News9 years agoHow 21-year-old Girl fled community over accusation of lesbianism
-
News10 years agoYobe Gov Moves Against Deputy
-
Opinion7 years ago7 signs she has friend zoned you
-
Technology5 years ago
Online job placement company headhunts women
-
Headlines10 years agoBorno Dep Gov Abducts Another Church Leader
