Yayi’s emergence, defining moment for unity, equity, progress — Ogun West Professionals

The emergence of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola as the consensus governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 election has been described as a turning point for unity, equity and political stability in Ogun State, with stakeholders saying the move could reshape the dynamics of the race well ahead of the polls.

The Ogun West Professionals for Yayi (OGWPY), in a statement, said the consensus arrangement not only eliminates internal rivalry but also strengthens the APC’s chances of retaining power, positioning the party for early mobilisation and strategic coordination.

The group noted that the development reflects a deliberate effort to align political interests and avoid divisions that have historically weakened electoral outcomes.

According to the group, the decision—announced by Governor Dapo Abiodun—demonstrates “rare statesmanship and foresight,” while also acknowledging the broader leadership climate under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which it said has encouraged unity and discipline within the ruling party.

OGWPY also commended former governors Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun for backing the consensus, describing their support as critical to building continuity and stability. It further praised aspirants such as Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and Abiodun Akinlade for stepping aside in the interest of party unity.

The statement highlighted growing endorsements from prominent figures, including Iyabo Obasanjo, Tunde Lemo and Kayode Amusan, noting that the convergence of political and technocratic support reinforces confidence in Adeola’s candidacy.

Beyond party politics, the group emphasised the historical significance of Adeola’s emergence for Ogun West Senatorial District, which has not produced a governor since the state’s creation more than five decades ago.

It described the development as a long-awaited restoration of equity and inclusion within the state’s power structure.

OGWPY also pointed to Adeola’s track record as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, citing infrastructure projects, healthcare delivery and educational support initiatives across Ogun State as evidence of his capacity to lead.

It added that these achievements, coupled with the consensus backing, provide a credible pathway for accelerated development.

As preparations for the 2027 election gather momentum, political observers say the APC’s early consensus could prove decisive, transforming potential internal competition into a unified front and setting the stage for what may become a highly strategic and closely watched governorship race.

Nigeria Rejects Fresh IMF Loans Amid Push for Economic Reforms

Nigeria has ruled out any immediate plans to seek loans from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or other multilateral financial institutions, according to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.

Edun made the position known on Thursday during the Finance Ministers’ press briefing at the ongoing IMF–World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., stressing that the country is not currently considering new external borrowing from the IMF.

“Nigeria has no plans at the moment to approach the IMF or any other institution to borrow funds,” he said.

He explained that the decision reflects both fiscal strategy and broader concerns about the cost of borrowing, particularly the high interest rates faced by African economies in global financial markets.

According to him, elevated debt servicing costs are placing significant pressure on government revenues, limiting the ability of many countries to invest in critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure.

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“At the elevated interest rates that African countries pay, the premium on commercial debt is out of reason and contributes to debt distress,” Edun said, noting that a large portion of national revenue in many developing economies is now directed toward debt repayment.

He added that reducing borrowing costs across Africa would require stronger economic reforms, improved debt-to-GDP ratios, and increased use of technology to enhance efficiency and revenue generation.

Edun also reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s call for a review of the high risk premiums charged on African borrowing, arguing that fairer global financing terms would improve development outcomes across the continent.

As part of broader regional financial planning, Nigeria is also pushing ahead with efforts to host the African Monetary Institute, a key step toward deeper monetary cooperation and financial integration in Africa ahead of its planned rollout in 2026.

On global financial support, the minister urged the IMF to accelerate the disbursement of proposed assistance packages, including a suggested $50 billion support programme for economies affected by global conflicts and economic shocks.

He noted that many vulnerable economies, particularly in Africa, stand to benefit from such funding but stressed the importance of timely and large-scale disbursement.

Edun also highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing domestic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which he said previously consumed as much as 5 percent of GDP, as part of efforts to strengthen fiscal sustainability and reduce dependence on external borrowing.

He maintained that the government’s focus remains on stabilising the economy through reforms that improve revenue generation, reduce inefficiencies, and attract private sector investment rather than relying on new IMF facilities.

Nigeria Rejects Fresh IMF Loans Amid Push for Economic Reforms

INEC Revises Osun Governorship Campaign Deadline 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has adjusted the campaign deadline for the Osun State governorship election, aligning it with the recently shifted election date.

INEC had earlier, on February 26, 2026, revised the electoral timetable and moved the Osun governorship election from August 8 to August 15, 2026, as part of broader scheduling adjustments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Thursday, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education, Mohammed Haruna, confirmed that political campaigns will now end at midnight on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

He explained that the adjustment complies with Section 98(1) of the Electoral Act, which mandates that all political campaigns must cease 24 hours before election day.

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INEC emphasised that all political parties, candidates, and stakeholders must strictly adhere to the updated timeline to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process.

The commission also reiterated its commitment to delivering free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections, urging parties to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid actions capable of inciting tension.

The Osun governorship election is a key off-cycle poll expected to test INEC’s preparedness and operational capacity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with multiple political parties already gearing up for what is anticipated to be a closely contested race.

The adjustment of the campaign deadline is part of INEC’s broader efforts to maintain compliance with electoral laws while ensuring adequate time for logistical preparations and stakeholder coordination.

INEC Revises Osun Governorship Campaign Deadline