Politics

If I, four govs quit PDP, party won’t win – Wike

Published

3 years ago

October 15, 2022

Governor Nyesom Wike

I don’t recognise Ayu as chairman

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, says if he and four other governors in his camp leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party will lose the 2023 election. The governor said this on Friday during a live media chat at the state government house in Port Harcourt.

He said that without the participation of himself, Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Samuel Ortom of Benue State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State and Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State in the presidential campaign of Atiku Abubakar, the PDP would find it difficult to win the election.

Wike who insisted that no meaningful progress would be made with regard to the crisis as long as Iyorchia Ayu continues to remain the party’s national chairman, added that he (Ayu) lacks integrity for reneging on his promise to step down if someone from the North wins the PDP presidential primary election.

When asked about the allegations he made in a previous interview accusing Ayu of being corrupt by collecting one billion naira from an unnamed individual in Lagos, Wike said that not only did Ayu do that, he also collected N100 million respectively from a governor and the National Working Committee (NWC) for same project. He said that if he reveals all he knows about Ayu, even Ayu’s children would denounce him.

He also reacted to the statement made by Atiku using the national honours bestowed on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as a vindication of his decision to choose Okowa as a running mate. He said that Atiku’s comment shows the type of leader he is but however added that the presidential candidate has denied authorizing the tweet, which many saw as a jibe at Wike.

Wike noted that he too had received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2014 and had just received a letter from President Muhammadu Buhari inviting him to receive another award based on his achievement on the area of infrastructures.

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Wike denied reports that the PDP candidate deployed former governor of Rivers, Peter Odili and Delta, Onanefe Ibori to plead with him to soften his stance, insisting that the last batch of people he met over the issue were members of the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT).

“Odili was not contacted by the PDP to meet me.” On whether he would listen him if PDP asked Odili to beg him, he said: “All I would say is that even he, knows what is right and what is wrong. He’s a reasonable father. He won’t say so. Do you ever see him in the government house or in Abuja, or with members of the former governors’ forum? If PDP wants me, they will come to my state and talk to me.”

He also denied the allegation about his agitation having something to do with the general fear that exists about Northern domination.

He said, “Those supporting Ayu are political hypocrites, taking the crumbs from the table after the master has eaten. Zone the chairmanship to anywhere in the South. It will be okay for us. If I take this, what will I tell my children tomorrow? There are stages in guerrilla warfare and we’re not going to back down. They should not come and talk to Wike.

“The people they’re sending to me have different ideas about the issue but I keep insisting that we must do things the way our party has always done. Ayu knows the presidential candidate and chairman can’t come from the same area….They are just playing games and they’re not the only ones that can play games. If you play game, I will play game with you. There is no divided house; it is just that people are not doing the right thing. Have I left the party? No. I am campaigning for PDP in my state, so there is no issue.

“We met in London with the presidential candidate one-on-one but what came out of it? We have made a concession that we are remaining in the PDP. What concession have they made? I supported so many states – Ondo, Cross River, Imo, Edo. Cross River came to me. Shouldn’t they be happy that I’m supporting the party financially? I have no interest in becoming minister or anything. I have been chairman of council, chief of staff, minister, governor. What else do I want? If we say we’re leaving the party today, the party can’t win in our states.”

Speaking on the the solution to the crisis, he said, “Give the people what is due to them. Implement what you said. Why is it so difficult? I see some elders – elders are supposed to look inwards and say, listen, this is wrong. Some are elders because of their age. Those who are the party leaders, if they don’t think it’s injurious, why are you bothered?”

On the Executive Order 21 that prohibits political parties from holding rallies in public schools unless they make some non-refundable deposit, he said that the money is to be used to effect necessary repairs in case of damage.

He said the Celestine Omehia’s case had nothing to do with vindictiveness over the latter’s alleged support for Atiku, adding that he would have done so since 2015, when Omehia sacked him and other council chairmen on May 29, 2007 for placing an advert in support of Amaechi. On the AIT lands, he said they don’t have any Certificate of Occupancy since 2003 when the 43.8 hectares of land was allocated to them. On the employment of 50, 000 political appointees, he insisted that he had no regret, adding that he would soon increase the number from 50,000 to 100,000 because it is a way of providing employment for his people.

Politics

Gov Yusuf Pledges Full Support for Tinubu, Declares APC Unbeatable in Kano

Published

4 hours ago

April 5, 2026

Trends Admin

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf

Gov Yusuf Pledges Full Support for Tinubu, Declares APC Unbeatable in Kano

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the dominant party in Kano State and reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Speaking on Saturday to a massive crowd of APC supporters at the Government House in Kano, Yusuf praised the president for his leadership and the delivery of dividends of democracy to Nigerians. He highlighted Tinubu’s efforts to improve the economy, enhance infrastructure across the nation, and ensure the equitable distribution of federal resources despite limited time and funding.

“Mr. President has been doing his best for this country; he has improved the economy of this country,” Yusuf said. He also thanked Tinubu, describing him as a dogged leader committed to ensuring dividends of democracy are provided across Nigeria.

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The governor affirmed that the people of Kano State fully support President Tinubu and will back his bid for re-election by 2027. He emphasized that the APC is the only party capable of winning elections at all levels in Kano and across Nigeria.

“The APC is the only winning party in Kano State and Nigeria. There is no other party that can take control of Kano State and Nigeria by the grace of God,” Yusuf stated.

Yusuf also congratulated APC members for the successes recorded during the party’s Northwest Zonal Congress in Kaduna and the National Convention in Abuja, noting that the achievements underscore the party’s organizational strength and grassroots influence in the northern region.

Assuring residents of continued progress, the governor pledged that his administration would sustain the delivery of critical infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, employment, and empowerment programs for women and youth across the state.

The governor’s return to Kano was marked by a grand reception at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, with supporters singing, dancing, and chanting APC slogans. He later led a rally through the state capital, including Katsina Road, Emir’s Palace Road, and Saboda Bakin Zuwo Road, receiving a warm welcome from cheering residents en route to the Government House.

Political analysts note that Kano, historically an APC stronghold, remains critical for the party’s electoral strategy ahead of the 2027 elections. Yusuf’s endorsement of Tinubu underscores a coordinated effort to consolidate support in the state and maintain APC’s dominance in northern Nigeria.

Gov Yusuf Pledges Full Support for Tinubu, Declares APC Unbeatable in Kano

Politics

ADC Crisis Halts Makinde, Bala, Lawmakers’ Defections

Published

5 hours ago

April 5, 2026

Trends Admin

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed

ADC Crisis Halts Makinde, Bala, Lawmakers’ Defections

Strong indications have emerged that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed may be reconsidering their planned defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) due to escalating internal disputes and regulatory uncertainty. The crisis has also affected several lawmakers who were weighing moves to the party, signaling a setback for opposition realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

The uncertainty stems from the recent action of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which withdrew recognition of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC) led by Mark, following a ruling by the Court of Appeal on March 12, 2026. INEC directed all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the outcome of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, aiming to prevent actions that could influence the court’s final judgment.

Despite INEC’s directive, the Mark-led NWC rejected the decision and insisted it would proceed with the party’s April 14 national convention in Abuja, intensifying internal divisions between factions loyal to Mark and those aligned with Nafiu Gombe. The leadership tussle has created doubts among potential defectors about the party’s legal standing and operational stability.

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Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, had earlier described the ADC as a “preferred destination” amid failed reconciliation efforts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He reportedly held talks with a delegation led by former SGF Babachir Lawal, but his office confirmed he remains a member of the PDP while consultations continue.

Similarly, sources close to Governor Makinde suggested that his interest in the ADC has waned following INEC’s intervention. His media aide, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, dismissed claims that he is planning to leave the PDP, calling the reports “mere rumors.”

The ADC crisis has also left lawmakers in limbo. Mansur Soro, representing Darazo/Ganjuwa Federal Constituency, said consultations are ongoing, while Lagos lawmaker Jesse Onuakalusi declined to comment on his next move amid the uncertainty. Uchenna Okonkwo of Anambra State downplayed INEC’s action, expressing confidence that the dispute would be resolved legally and noting the influence of former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi on prospective defectors’ decisions.

Political analysts warn that the combination of internal party disputes, INEC intervention, and leadership uncertainty poses a significant hurdle to opposition consolidation ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC’s ability to resolve its leadership conflict, secure regulatory recognition, and conduct a credible convention will be crucial for it to attract high-profile defections in the coming months.

ADC Crisis Halts Makinde, Bala, Lawmakers’ Defections

Politics

I Will Support Whoever Emerges as ADC Candidate — Atiku

Published

5 hours ago

April 5, 2026

Trends Admin

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar

I Will Support Whoever Emerges as ADC Candidate — Atiku

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reaffirmed his commitment to support whoever emerges as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate in the 2027 elections, stressing the need for unity within the opposition.

Speaking during an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku—himself a presidential aspirant on the ADC platform—said all contenders must rally behind the eventual flagbearer to strengthen the party’s chances. He noted that unlike previous contests with large numbers of aspirants, the ADC race remains relatively small and manageable, making consensus easier.

“We will support and endorse whoever emerges as the flag bearer,” he said, emphasizing that party unity is critical for electoral success.

The former Vice-President also addressed the controversy surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which recently announced it would halt further engagement with the ADC leadership and would not monitor the party’s scheduled April 14 national convention. INEC cited a court ruling for its position, but the ADC rejected the decision, insisting it was based on a misinterpretation and vowing to proceed with its planned activities.

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Reacting, Atiku dismissed fears that the development could weaken the party, arguing that the ADC continues to gain support nationwide. He alleged that vested political interests are behind the challenges facing the party, linking them to its growing popularity as an opposition platform.

Beyond internal politics, Atiku described the ADC as a youth-driven political movement, highlighting the increasing participation of young Nigerians in the party’s structure. According to him, many aspirants seeking positions from councillorship to the National Assembly are youths, reflecting a deliberate effort to promote youth inclusion in Nigerian politics.

He also expressed readiness to support a younger presidential candidate if elected, noting that leadership opportunities should be extended to the next generation.

“The youths have taken over the party… our role is to create the opportunity and hand it over to them,” he said.

On national issues, Atiku said Nigerians are increasingly frustrated by economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance, adding that the country is approaching a critical turning point ahead of 2027.

He linked rising insecurity, particularly in northern Nigeria, to youth unemployment and lack of access to education, warning that continued neglect in these areas could worsen instability. He stressed that improving education and creating economic opportunities are essential to addressing the crisis.

The former Vice-President also raised concerns about corruption and weak accountability, alleging that authorities have not done enough to curb financial misconduct in government.

Despite these challenges, Atiku expressed confidence that Nigerians are ready for change, noting that growing dissatisfaction could shape voting patterns in the next general election.

Political observers believe Atiku’s stance signals a broader effort to position the ADC as a credible opposition platform, capable of attracting alliances and mounting a strong challenge in 2027. His pledge to support the eventual candidate is seen as a strategic move to avoid internal divisions and strengthen coalition-building efforts.