Adeleke’s Aide Anisu Resigns, Defects to APC

A political tremor has hit Osun State as a Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke, identified as Anisu, has resigned his appointment and defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The development, which emerged on Saturday, has sparked widespread reactions within the state’s political space, with observers describing it as a potential shift in loyalty within the ruling circle of the Osun government.

Although details of his resignation letter were not immediately made public, sources within political circles hinted that the decision may not be unconnected to internal disagreements and realignments ahead of future political contests in the state.

Anisu, who served as one of the aides to the governor, was considered part of the grassroots political structure that contributed to the electoral success of the PDP in Osun. His defection is therefore seen by analysts as symbolically significant, even if its immediate electoral impact remains uncertain.

Supporters of the APC in Osun have since celebrated the move, describing it as a sign of growing acceptance of the party within the state. Some party loyalists took to social media to welcome the former aide, noting that his experience within government would strengthen the party’s strategy ahead of upcoming political engagements.

On the other hand, the PDP is yet to issue an official statement regarding the defection as of press time. However, party insiders have downplayed the development, insisting that it does not pose any serious threat to the administration of Governor Adeleke or the party’s dominance in the state.

Political analysts say defections are not unusual in Nigeria’s political landscape, where alignments often shift based on interests, strategy, and evolving power dynamics. They note that while individual defections may not immediately alter the balance of power, a consistent pattern could signal deeper cracks within a party.

The defection also comes amid ongoing political maneuvering across Nigeria, as parties continue to consolidate their bases and attract influential figures ahead of future elections.

Efforts to reach Anisu for comments on his decision were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

Adeleke’s Aide Anisu Resigns, Defects to APC

Bala Mohammed Rejects APC Pressure, Says He Won’t Be Criminalised

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has strongly rejected alleged political pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the federal government of President Bola Tinubu, insisting he will not be intimidated or “criminalised” for refusing to defect to the ruling party.

Speaking at a press conference, Governor Mohammed accused federal agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the courts, of being used as tools to target political opponents. He described the alleged actions as politically motivated harassment aimed at forcing him and other opposition figures to align with the APC.

“The APC-led federal government thinks they can use the court and the EFCC to prosecute Nigerians who are not in their party,” Mohammed said. “If they don’t stop, we are prepared to declare a war. I assure you, we will not keep quiet any longer. I will not allow anybody to criminalise me because I refuse to join their party.”

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The governor reaffirmed his decision not to defect, highlighting that some of his commissioners have already faced pressure and what he calls unjust scrutiny by anti-graft agencies. He warned that continued coercion could provoke stronger public responses from himself and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership.

Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, accused the APC-led administration of deploying “gestapo tactics” to weaken opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said these actions undermine democratic principles, politicize state institutions, and threaten the independence of officeholders.

Political observers note that his comments underscore rising tension between the federal government and opposition governors, as speculation continues about party realignments and alliances ahead of upcoming elections. Supporters argue that his stance represents a firm defense of political freedom, while critics warn that the rhetoric could further heighten partisan polarization in the country.

Governor Mohammed’s position highlights broader concerns over federal influence on state affairs, the impartiality of anti-corruption agencies, and the use of state institutions in partisan politics, raising urgent questions about Nigeria’s democratic and governance frameworks.

Bala Mohammed Rejects APC Pressure, Says He Won’t Be Criminalised

US Firm to Engage Trump, Congress Over INEC’s Suspension of ADC Leadership

A U.S.-based policy and lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C., has announced plans to brief members of the U.S. Congress and officials linked to former President Donald Trump over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to withdraw recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership. The move has raised concerns about Nigeria’s electoral credibility and the ability of the opposition to participate fully in the 2027 presidential election.

INEC had earlier this week removed recognition of the ADC leadership from its official portal and suspended all formal engagement with the party, citing ongoing litigation over a leadership dispute. The commission said its action was in compliance with a Court of Appeal order directing parties to maintain the status quo until the legal matter is resolved.

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In a statement, Von Batten-Montague York L.C. said INEC’s action has effectively frozen one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties at a critical time, potentially undermining political participation, democratic processes, and election integrity. “This situation could hinder the opposition’s ability to organise and participate fully in the democratic process,” the firm stated.

The U.S. firm also highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance to the United States in areas including regional security, economic stability, and counterterrorism, adding that the integrity of Nigeria’s elections has direct implications for U.S. interests and global stability. Accordingly, the firm plans to present its concerns to U.S. lawmakers and Trump administration officials to ensure that free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria remain on the international agenda.

The firm further called on President Bola Tinubu to guarantee that the upcoming elections are beyond reproach, transparent, and reflective of the will of Nigerians. It urged that no political party or faction should be disadvantaged in a manner that could compromise electoral fairness or democratic participation.

The ADC leadership dispute, involving rival factions led by Senator David Mark and others, has drawn sharp reactions locally. While INEC maintains it is acting to comply with court directives, critics argue that the decision could weaken the opposition and create uncertainty in the lead-up to the presidential elections.

Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended INEC’s actions, describing the crisis as self-inflicted by the ADC and urging compliance with the law to resolve leadership disputes ahead of election preparations.

Analysts warn that the situation underscores the importance of institutional neutrality, transparency, and timely resolution of party disputes to maintain the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.

US Firm to Engage Trump, Congress Over INEC’s Suspension of ADC Leadership