South-East Ex-Governors Back Tinubu’s Re-Election

Former governors from Nigeria’s South-East have thrown their weight behind the decision of current governors in the region to support the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the move as a strategic political alignment aimed at advancing regional development.

The endorsement followed a closed-door meeting held in Enugu, where the former leaders also formally unveiled the South-East Former Governors’ Forum, a new platform designed to strengthen collaboration with sitting governors and contribute to national policy discussions.

Speaking after the meeting, the Minister of Works and former Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi, said the forum would serve as an advisory and support body, offering guidance on key regional and national issues, including infrastructure, security, and economic development.

South-East Ex-Governors

In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Francis Nwaze, Umahi noted that the forum’s formation reflects a renewed commitment by past leaders to work closely with incumbent governors in promoting the interests of the South-East.

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He said the former governors commended President Tinubu for ongoing infrastructure development projects across Nigeria, as well as for appointing several individuals from the South-East into strategic government positions. They also expressed appreciation for what they described as the President’s continued support for governors in the region.

Umahi added that the ex-governors were unanimous in backing the position already taken by current South-East governors, pledging their full support for Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, the forum is open to all former governors from the region regardless of political affiliation and will operate alongside existing structures such as the South-East Governors’ Forum, rather than replacing them.

Those who attended the meeting included former governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Sullivan Chime, Martin Elechi, Chris Ngige, and Okezie Ikpeazu.

The development signals a growing political consensus within the South-East, as key stakeholders in the region increasingly align with the federal government. Analysts say the move could reshape political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle, particularly in a region that has historically had diverse political leanings.

While the endorsement underscores unity among former and current leaders, observers note that its broader impact will depend on how it translates into tangible development outcomes and voter sentiment in the coming years.

South-East Ex-Governors Back Tinubu’s Re-Election

Yusuf Buhari, Son of Late President, Declares for House of Reps Seat

Yusuf Muhammadu Buhari, son of Nigeria’s late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has officially declared his candidacy for the House of Representatives, aiming to represent the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua federal constituency in Katsina State under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.

The announcement, shared publicly via X by Bashir Ahmad, comes after extensive consultations with local party leaders, elders, and influential stakeholders across the three local government areas in the constituency. Yusuf emphasized that his decision was driven by a commitment to community development, effective representation, and empowerment of local youth.

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In a letter titled “Expression of Interest to Contest for the House of Representatives Seat,” Yusuf Buhari highlighted his intention to focus on infrastructure, education, and human capital development if elected. He also called for the support of residents and party members, urging a collaborative approach to addressing local challenges.

Political analysts note that the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’Adua constituency is a traditional APC stronghold, making the party primary the most critical stage of the election. Yusuf’s entry marks his first major move into active politics, having maintained a low profile during his father’s presidency.

While the announcement has drawn strong attention, some local party stakeholders have stressed the importance of transparent primary elections, warning against endorsing any candidate prematurely. Nonetheless, early meetings reportedly indicate significant grassroots support for Yusuf ahead of the APC primaries.

Yusuf Buhari’s declaration signals the start of a politically active phase for the former president’s son, with observers watching closely how his campaign develops as the 2027 general elections approach.

Yusuf Buhari, Son of Late President, Declares for House of Reps Seat

Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has dismissed claims linking Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the leadership crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the allegations as baseless and politically motivated.

In a strongly worded statement, Onanuga accused Peter Obi and his supporters of turning the President into a “whipping boy” for internal problems within opposition parties. He insisted that Tinubu has no involvement in the ADC crisis, stressing that the challenges facing the party are self-inflicted.

Onanuga linked the turmoil within the ADC to Obi’s recent political moves, particularly his exit from the Labour Party Nigeria after the 2023 presidential election. He described the move as a “use-and-dump” strategy, arguing that Obi failed to build a lasting political structure within the party.

The presidential aide also criticised Obi’s reliance on the Obidient movement, describing it as largely online-driven rather than a fully developed political organisation. According to him, Obi’s decision to align with the ADC reflects a need for an existing political structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

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Onanuga further alleged that the ADC crisis stems from internal disputes following claims that the party was “hijacked” by political interests linked to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar from party founder Ralph Nwosu. He suggested that lack of due diligence by new stakeholders contributed to the current leadership crisis.

Reiterating his stance, Onanuga said there is “absolutely no connection” between President Tinubu and the ADC’s internal struggles. He urged Obi and other party stakeholders to focus on resolving disputes within their ranks, including reconciling with aggrieved members such as Nafiu Gombe.

The presidential spokesman also downplayed Obi’s chances ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that he remains politically irrelevant without securing a party ticket. He noted that Obi’s third-place finish in the 2023 election does not guarantee future success.

The exchange highlights growing tensions within Nigeria’s opposition space, as parties grapple with leadership crises, shifting alliances, and preparations for 2027. Analysts say the ADC situation reflects broader challenges facing opposition politics, including internal divisions and struggles to build cohesive structures.

Onanuga concluded by defending the Tinubu administration, saying the President, as an incumbent, has achievements to present to Nigerians, and accused critics of attempting to undermine his record with unfounded claims.

Onanuga Denies Tinubu’s Role in ADC Crisis, Criticises Peter Obi