Fubara Reaffirms Commitment to Wike’s Vision

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering on the development vision of his predecessor, Chief Nyesom Wike, pledging to complete the Port Harcourt Ring Road project by October 2026. The governor described the initiative as a strategic urban infrastructure priority that will enhance transportation, economic activity, and urban mobility in the state.

During an inspection of the ongoing Port Harcourt Ring Road construction, Fubara emphasised that completing the project is both a fulfillment of Wike’s vision and his own promise to the people of Rivers State. He assured residents that all necessary resources, logistics, and manpower would be deployed to ensure the timely delivery of the road.

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“This is a transformative project that will significantly improve connectivity across Port Harcourt and stimulate economic growth,” the governor said, stressing that the road will benefit current and future generations.

Fubara’s statement comes amid ongoing reconciliation efforts with Wike, following earlier political tensions. Stakeholders have hailed the renewed focus on infrastructure, noting that the Ring Road project is a tangible sign of continuity and partnership between successive administrations.

The governor’s pledge underscores a broader commitment to infrastructure development, urban planning, and economic empowerment in Rivers State, with the Port Harcourt Ring Road serving as a flagship project that embodies both legacy and progress.

Fubara Reaffirms Commitment to Wike’s Vision

Atiku, Makinde Hold Closed-Door Meeting With IBB in Minna

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde held a closed-door meeting with former Nigerian Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) at his private residence in Minna, Niger State on Tuesday. The meeting is generating political interest as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections.

Atiku arrived in Minna shortly after 1 p.m. and proceeded directly to Babangida’s residence. About 40 minutes into the session, Governor Makinde joined the meeting, which continued behind closed doors. No official statement has been issued, but sources indicate the discussions focused on electoral reforms, including the ongoing debate over electronic transmission of election results, as well as other national governance issues.

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Political observers see the meeting as a strategic consultation ahead of the 2027 polls, highlighting the involvement of prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) figures in shaping election strategies and political alignments. Journalists were barred from the session, underscoring its private and sensitive nature.

While details remain limited, insiders described the meeting as timely and critical, considering the heightened discourse on credible elections, national security, and political coordination among key stakeholders. An official briefing is expected once the discussions conclude.

Atiku, Makinde Hold Closed-Door Meeting With IBB in Minna

“Electoral Act Amendment: El-Rufai Calls Akpabio ‘Tinubu’s Lapdog’”

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has launched a scathing critique of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of being the central obstacle in the Electoral Act Amendment debate and describing him as a “lapdog” to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The comments mark a new flashpoint in Nigeria’s political discourse over reforms intended to modernize the country’s electoral processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in a recent interview, El-Rufai emphasized that the Senate as an institution is not the main issue. Instead, he singled out Akpabio’s leadership, asserting that the Senate President’s actions have slowed progress on key provisions of the amendment, particularly the mandatory electronic transmission of polling-unit results. According to El-Rufai, Akpabio’s approach appears to prioritize political interests over democratic reform, warning that this stance threatens transparency and voter confidence.

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El-Rufai did not mince words, branding Akpabio a “scumbag” and urging fellow senators and political actors to unite against the perceived obstruction. He maintained that the warning is intended to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system and ensure that reforms are implemented effectively.

The Electoral Act Amendment Bill has been a source of intense debate. Advocates for reform emphasize that electronic transmission of results and other technological enhancements are crucial for credible elections. Critics, however, argue that the Senate’s handling of the bill — including delays and contested provisions — risks undermining public trust.

In response, Akpabio has defended the Senate’s work, insisting that the bill is still under review and that final decisions will follow bicameral reconciliation between the Senate and House of Representatives. He maintains that accusations of obstruction are based on misunderstandings of legislative procedure and that reforms will be implemented transparently.

Political analysts have weighed in, noting that while Akpabio’s role is controversial, the success of the Electoral Act Amendment will ultimately depend on cooperation among lawmakers, adherence to due process, and public accountability. Civil society organizations and opposition figures continue to call for urgent, transparent reforms to ensure credible elections and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

With 2027 elections approaching, the stakes remain high. How the National Assembly navigates debates over modernized voting technology, transparency measures, and legislative authority will influence public confidence and shape political alliances across Nigeria. El-Rufai’s strong words signal growing tension and highlight the urgency for decisive action to advance electoral reform.

“Electoral Act Amendment: El-Rufai Calls Akpabio ‘Tinubu’s Lapdog’”