Politics

By Anwar Usman

President Bola Tinubu has suspended the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Odu for six months.

The president stated this while addressing the country on the current political crisis in the state.

The president was quoted saying “By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs Ngozi Odu and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for an initial period of six months,” he said in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday.

Details later…

By Uzair Adam 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked the land allocated for the new National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja’s Central Business District.  

The Daily Reality reports that the 12-story building, which has remained uncompleted for two decades, was initially estimated to cost N16 billion when construction began in 2008. 

Despite raising over N62 billion through fundraisers and electoral activities, the project remains unfinished.  

A letter confirming the revocation, signed by the Director of Land Administration, Chijoke Nwankwoeze, on behalf of the minister, was addressed to the PDP National Chairman. 

Dated March 13, 2025, the letter cited the party’s failure to pay annual ground rents for 20 years—spanning from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2025—as the reason for the decision.  

The letter referenced several public notices issued by the FCT Administration since 2023, urging allottees to clear outstanding dues on their properties. 

It also cited Section 28, Subsection 5 (a) and (b) of the Land Use Act, which grants the government the authority to revoke land over breaches of the terms of occupancy.  

With the revocation now in effect, the land has reverted to the FCT Administration, which plans to take immediate possession. As of the time of filing this report, PDP had yet to issue an official response.

By Uzair Adam 

Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has dismissed an invitation from former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, urging opposition politicians to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).  

El-Rufai, who recently defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the SDP, made the appeal in an interview with BBC Hausa, inviting prominent figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola to join him in the party.  

Responding in a separate BBC Hausa interview on Sunday, March 16, 2025, Lamido described El-Rufai’s call as an insult, emphasizing that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was instrumental in shaping the former Kaduna governor’s political career.  

“The party we built, the PDP, is what gave birth to El-Rufai. He is not in a position to make us abandon it,” Lamido said.  

He also criticized El-Rufai’s leadership approach, questioning his sudden shift to the SDP after years in the APC.  

“Leadership requires patience, vision, and commitment to the peace and stability of the country. It should not be driven by anger or personal interests,” he added.  

Reaffirming his allegiance to the PDP, Lamido stated that he had no reason to leave the party, saying, “If I wanted to leave, I would have done so in 2014 when the APC was formed.”  

He advised El-Rufai to prioritize national interest over political grievances, stressing that the PDP remains focused on rebuilding its strength after losing the 2015 presidential election.

By Anas Abbas

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has publicly reaffirmed his allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressing his desire to be recognized as a loyal member of the party.

In a statement released on March 13, 2025, Buhari reiterated his dedication to the APC, the political party that facilitated his two terms in office.

“I am an APC member and I like to be addressed as such,” Buhari stated, underlining his commitment to promoting the party.

He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the APC throughout his presidency, describing it as the highest honor he could receive.

Buhari also acknowledged the efforts of the party’s founding members, highlighting their sacrifices in establishing a robust political platform aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s constitution and democracy.

He reiterated that these foundational efforts should be cherished and nurtured.

The former president’s remarks come at a time when discussions among party leaders are ongoing, though he refrained from referencing any specific individuals or current issues within the party.

By Uzair Adam

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasiru El-Rufai, has revealed that his decision to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was made with the knowledge and approval of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Monday, El-Rufai confirmed his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa on Wednesday, he disclosed that he sought Buhari’s counsel before making the move, emphasizing that he often consulted the former president on political matters.

“There are certain people I consult before making major decisions, and I always follow their advice. Former President Muhammadu Buhari is one of them. I met with him on a Friday, informed him about my decision to leave the APC, and asked for his prayers and blessings, which he gave,” El-Rufai said.

He also recalled instances during his tenure as Kaduna governor when he sought Buhari’s input on key appointments, including commissioner nominations.

“Before appointing my commissioners, I presented the list to Buhari for review, to check if any of them had ever insulted him. “He laughed, thanked me, and told me to proceed with my appointments,” he added.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The 2027 game will not only be interesting but will also mark a significant turning point in Nigeria’s political landscape. The voting patterns and intricate scheming that shaped the 2023 elections will not be replicated in their exact form, yet their influence will still be felt. While the key political figures who played major roles in 2023 will remain central to the unfolding drama, they will adopt new strategies, shift alliances, and engage in different forms of political maneuvering.

The battle for power will be defined by strong political platforms, influential players, a formidable war chest, scientifically crafted strategies, and carefully calculated negotiations. The presidential race, in particular, will be a high-stakes contest, shaped by a mix of ambition, ideological shifts, and pragmatic political decisions.

An incumbent seeking a second term will be a bulldozer—with an enormous war chest, a solid structure, and the full weight of state power behind them. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will fight tooth and nail to secure reelection, as mostly, any first term president will do so. However, the APC stronghold – the North, is gradually slipping from the party’s grasp. In fact, 75% of President Tinubu’s second-term resources and energy will be expended in the North—making it a crucial battleground for his team. If the Tinubus have played their card very well, the North would have been firmly in the arms.

The North will be the main battleground, while the Southwest will find itself in a dilemma—torn between supporting their own and upholding their deep-rooted tradition of rewarding excellence. The Southeast will watch from the sidelines with arms akimbo but will ultimately follow their hearts, while the South-South may take a more indifferent stance, adopting a “let’s just move” attitude.

The recent resignation of Nasir El-Rufai from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is just one of many major developments that will reshape the political terrain in the coming months and 2027 approaches. El-Rufa’i’s early defection serves as a catalyst for the unfolding political drama. The Tinubu team is fortunate to have this early warning, giving them ample time to strategize. Meanwhile, the opposition will be on the offensive, while the APC will be forced into a defensive position.

For the opposition, the biggest challenge will be balancing the interests of four key groups: the Atiku camp, the Kwankwaso camp, the Peter Obi camp, and the El-Rufai/Buhari former ministers’ camp. They must navigate these competing interests carefully if they hope to strike the winning formula.

As political camps solidify and realign, new alliances will emerge, while old ones will fracture under the weight of conflicting interests. The electorate, too, will evolve—demanding more from their leaders and scrutinizing candidates beyond party affiliations.

Ultimately, the 2027 game will be a masterclass in political strategy and power dynamics—one that students of politics, analysts, and observers alike will find fascinating to study for years to come.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja, zaymohd@yahoo.com, 08036070980

By Fatimah Yusuf Usman

The political exclusion of women in Nigeria has once again come to the fore with the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her alleged offense? Speaking up. Her punishment?

A swift and harsh six-month expulsion from the Senate, her office sealed, salary cut off, and access to the National Assembly revoked. Her ordeal began when she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, an allegation that was neither investigated nor given a fair hearing.

Instead, the Senate’s Ethics Committee moved with unusual speed to shut her out. This raises an urgent question. Is there space for women in Nigerian politics beyond tokenism, or must they submit and endure injustice to survive?

Sexual harassment remains a global crisis, yet many societies, including Nigeria, prefer to sweep it under the carpet. Worldwide, one in three women, about 736 million, has experienced physical and or sexual violence.

But when victims muster the courage to speak up, they are often met with disbelief, scrutiny, or punishment. Natasha’s case is no different. Rather than handling the matter with fairness and transparency, the Senate wasted no time in punishing her.

A six-month suspension without pay seems less like a disciplinary measure and more like a warning to women in politics. Know your place or face the consequences. If this can happen at the highest levels of government, what hope is there for the ordinary Nigerian woman facing harassment in her workplace, school, or community?

Women in Nigeria’s political space face a glass ceiling reinforced with steel. Out of 109 senators, only a handful are women, a stark reminder of the gender imbalance that continues to define governance in the country.

And when women like Natasha refuse to conform to the unwritten rules of submission, the system moves to silence them. But even as she was escorted out of the Senate chambers, Natasha refused to be broken.

“This injustice will not be sustained,” she declared. Her words are a rallying cry, not just for herself, but for every woman who has been silenced, sidelined, or denied justice. The idea that politics is a “man’s world” must be dismantled.

Nigeria cannot claim to be a democracy while women’s voices are suppressed. Gender equity in governance is not a privilege. It is a right. The Senate’s handling of this case has only reinforced the perception that powerful men can get away with anything while women who dare to challenge them are punished.

If Natasha’s case has taught us anything, it is that the struggle for women’s political inclusion is far from over. But if we do not confront this now, when will we? How long will women continue to be punished for demanding dignity, fairness, and equal representation?

This is no longer just about Natasha. It is about every woman who has been ignored, intimidated, or denied justice. If we allow this injustice to stand, we send a dangerous message that a woman’s voice does not matter. But we refuse to accept that.

We stand with Natasha. We stand with every woman who has been silenced. And we demand justice, not just for her, but for all of us.

Fatimah Yusuf Usman is a Corps Member serving at PRNigeria Centre, Abuja. can be reached via: fatimahborkono@gmail.com

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Several prominent figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) are reportedly preparing to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as part of a new political alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Among those expected to join the SDP are former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and Attorney General Abubakar Malami, along with APC national chairman Abdullahi Adamu.

Their defections are said to follow the recent move by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who officially joined the SDP earlier today.

Although the specific reasons behind the defections remain unclear, sources suggest that the moves are part of a broader strategy to form a third-force coalition capable of challenging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership in the upcoming elections.

By Anas Abbas

Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has officially announced his resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his decision to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

In a resignation letter submitted to his local ward in Kaduna State on Monday, El-Rufai cited irreconcilable differences with the ruling party’s leadership and expressed disappointment with the APC’s recent direction.

“I have served the APC diligently and have contributed significantly to its viability as a political platform,” he stated. “However, recent developments have revealed a concerning disregard for democratic principles and progressive values that I hold dear.

”As a founding member of the APC, El-Rufai played a pivotal role in securing electoral victories for the party in 2015, 2019, and 2023.

Reflecting on his tenure as governor, he emphasized his administration’s commitment to human development, education, healthcare, infrastructure, job creation, and investment.

He explained that his departure from the APC was motivated by growing concerns regarding governance and internal party dynamics.

“At this juncture in my political journey, I must seek a different political platform that aligns with the progressive values I cherish,” he remarked.

Upon joining the SDP, El-Rufai expressed his gratitude to mentors, colleagues, and supporters, reaffirming his dedication to advancing democratic principles.

“As a member of the SDP, I am committed to building a unified democratic front to challenge the APC in the upcoming elections,” he concluded.

During his time as Chairman of Hadejia Local Government, Bala T.O was not just a leader; he was a transformative figure. His leadership was characterized by a keen focus on the needs of his people. Under his stewardship, Hadejia saw numerous developmental strides in infrastructure, education, health, and local governance. His unique leadership style, which blended accessibility, transparency, and pragmatism, earned him the admiration of his constituents and political peers alike.

Honourable Bala Umar, widely known as Bala T.O, is a name that resonates deeply within the political landscape of Jigawa State. From his impactful tenure as the Chairman of Hadejia Local Government to his current position as the Special Adviser on Special Duties to Governor Malam Umar Namadi, Bala T.O has continually demonstrated unwavering commitment to public service and governance.

But beyond his political prowess, Bala T.O’s legacy is also tied to his deep-rooted understanding of governance. His work was driven by the belief that leadership should not just be about authority but about empowering the people, fostering unity, and prioritizing the well-being of all. He was particularly known for his efforts in building bridges between various community groups, ensuring inclusivity, and addressing the challenges faced by the common people of Hadejia.

In his current role as Special Adviser to the Governor of Jigawa State, Bala T.O continues to serve with the same fervor and dedication that defined his earlier career. The transition from a local government chairman to a Special Adviser is not merely a change in title, but a testament to his capacity for leadership at both local and state levels. His wealth of experience and extensive knowledge of Jigawa’s grassroots realities has positioned him as an invaluable asset to the state government.

As Special Adviser on Special Duties, Bala T.O now plays a crucial role in shaping policies and ensuring the successful implementation of programs that affect not only the people of Hadejia but all residents of Jigawa State. His position enables him to influence strategic decisions that directly impact sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure development, and social welfare – areas critical to the continued growth and prosperity of the state.

One of the standout qualities of Bala T.O is his dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in the development process. He has remained a staunch advocate for the inclusion of marginalized communities and continues to push for policies that promote equal opportunities for all. His approach to governance is not about political gain, but about creating sustainable change that will benefit future generations.

Furthermore, his relationship with Governor Malam Umar Namadi (Danmodi) is one built on mutual respect and a shared vision for the future of Jigawa State. As a trusted adviser, Bala T.O plays an instrumental role in providing valuable insights, guiding the governor in making decisions that reflect the needs of the people. His counsel, honed through years of hands-on leadership experience, is a driving force behind many of the initiatives currently underway in the state.

As we look to the future, it is clear that Honourable Bala Umar (Bala T.O) will continue to be a key figure in the political and developmental trajectory of Jigawa State. His continued service, first as Chairman of Hadejia Local Government and now as Special Adviser, demonstrates the power of dedicated leadership and the impact one person can have on a community and beyond.

In conclusion, Bala T.O’s journey from local government leadership to becoming the Special Adviser to the Governor serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the power of hard work, integrity, and service. His story is a testament to the belief that true leadership is not defined by position, but by the positive change one can bring to the lives of others.