APC

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) linking it to a reported shooting involving ADC members in Edo State, describing the claims as unfounded and premature.

In a press statement signed by Felix Morka, National Publicity Secretary of the APC in Abuja on February 26, 2026, the APC said the opposition party had rushed to conclusions without allowing security agencies to investigate the incident.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is, undoubtedly, its own nemesis. It needs no external help to achieve its political demise. The party is doing a good job crippling itself even before it has time to stand on its feet.”

The ruling party criticised the ADC leadership, accusing it of making reckless claims and disregarding due process.

“In its press statement of February 25, 2026, the ADC claimed that the APC was responsible for the shooting incident involving its members in Edo State. That is utterly delusional. Accusing the APC even before any investigation is carried out by law enforcement is particularly senseless, and shows the ADC as a party that lacks focus and without regard for the due process of law.”

The APC added that such allegations suggest that the ADC had assumed multiple roles in the matter.

“By its baseless conclusion, the party has declared itself to be the accuser, investigator, prosecutor, and judge in its own cause.”

The party questioned the ADC’s capacity to manage national issues, especially security concerns.

“Nigerians must wonder how a party that cannot manage a single incident with proper guidance, maturity, and in line with legal and constitutional process can be trusted to manage the complexities of Nigeria’s security environment.”

It also faulted the ADC’s reference to alleged acts of terrorism, describing the claim as irresponsible.

“The ADC’s reference to ‘cases of acts of terrorism by the ruling APC against our party’, in its presser, is reckless and unjustifiable.”

The APC maintained that such remarks show a lack of awareness of the country’s security challenges and the sacrifices of security personnel.

“It’s flippant accusation clearly shows that the ADC is out of touch with the prevailing realities of the country’s war on terror, and insensitive to the patriotic sacrifices of our troops in the frontlines in defence of our lives and liberty.”

While condemning political violence, the party called for a proper probe into the Edo incident.

“Make no mistake, violence of any kind in our political space is unacceptable and must be condemned by all well meaning Nigerians. Our great Party roundly condemns the reported shooting incident in Edo state. We call on police and other law enforcement authorities to carry out an expeditious investigation into the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The APC further suggested that investigators should examine internal issues within the ADC.

“Investigation of this incident should begin with a thorough scrutiny of the ADC, its leaders and members as prime suspects.”

It alleged that internal disputes within the ADC could be linked to the incident.

“Among other leads, law enforcement investigation should focus on widely reported violent clashes and confrontations among its factional leaders over control and access to certain meetings of the party.”

The party insisted it had no involvement in the incident and stated that it remains focused on recent electoral successes.

“To be clear, the APC has absolutely no role or responsibility in the unfortunate shooting incident. We are too busy taking stock of our recent  big wins in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) municipal elections, and the Rivers and Kano states constituency elections to pay any attention to a fringe and inconsequential meeting of ADC political wanderers in Edo state.”

The APC also took a swipe at the ADC’s performance in recent elections.

“The ADC should be just as busy trying to fathom its back-to-back dismal and disgraceful performance in previous and recent by-elections in the country despite its nuisance rants.”

The party expressed appreciation to voters and reaffirmed its commitment to governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We are grateful to Nigerians for the solid and growing support of our great Party. We particularly appreciate the electorate in the FCT, Kano and Rivers states for their eloquent vote of confidence in our Party, and in the visionary and transformative leadership of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR.”

It concluded by restating its focus on national development.

“Our Party and Mr President remain focused on building a stronger, more resilient and prosperous country for the good of all Nigerians.”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that its victories in last weekend’s by-elections across several states serve as a clear public referendum endorsing the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration’s policies.

The Lagos State Chapter of the APC characterized the outcomes in Rivers, Kano, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as a resounding affirmation of the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

“The resounding victories recorded by our candidates reaffirm the confidence of the electorate in the Renewed Hope Agenda and the transformative policies being implemented at both the federal and state levels,” the statement read.

The ruling party asserted that the results demonstrate public recognition of its governance strides, including economic reforms and infrastructural development. It framed the wins as a direct rebuttal to opposition criticism, stating that “the people have spoken decisively through the ballot.”

In a pointed critique of its political rivals, the APC described the opposition as “uninspiring and unworthy of serious consideration.” The party suggested that the by-election results represent “the final straw on the back of an opposition that has remained largely uninspiring,” accusing them of relying on “rhetoric, sensationalism, and obstruction” rather than offering credible alternatives.

The Lagos APC also downplayed the influence of digital activism, suggesting that the opposition’s significant presence on social media failed to translate into actual votes. “The amplified noise of the opposition across digital platforms did not translate into real electoral penetration or public acceptance when it mattered most—at the ballot box,” the statement noted, adding that “Democracy is ultimately decided by voters, not virtual trends.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the party expressed strong confidence, suggesting the recent momentum could make the next national vote “a walk in the park” for the APC.

The party extended its appreciation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the polls and commended security agencies for their professionalism. It also lauded its party members and campaign teams for their grassroots engagement.

The Lagos APC concluded by reaffirming its “unwavering support” for President Tinubu and calling on all Nigerians, including those in the opposition, to collaborate on the task of nation-building.

By Kamal Alkasim

The PDP candidate’s manifesto during his campaign focused on community welfare, women’s empowerment, improved healthcare services, and enhanced education opportunities for children.

The Premium Times reported that the PDP defeated its contender from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Yahaya Shehu, who scored 17,788 votes.

Declaring Mr Kasim as the winner, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer, Philip Akpen, said the election was peaceful and smooth.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Mohammed Kasim, has won the Gwagwalada Area Council chairmanship in the local government elections held across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Sunday.

Mr Kashim polled 22,165 votes to defeat his rivals in the election.

Mr Kasim’s manifesto during his campaign focused on community welfare, women’s empowerment, improved healthcare services, and enhanced education opportunities for children.

The elections were in two categories: the chairmanship and the councillorship.

PDP pulled through in the election at a time it is facing its most devastating crisis, which has led to division in its national leadership and loss of governors and lawmakers elected on its platform to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its top figures, such as the former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Although the outcome of the local election does not necessarily mirror the PDP’s popularity at the national level, it is a significant victory for the party in a section of Nigeria’s capital, reflecting the country’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition.

It may also point to the fact that APC’s enhanced dominance, driven by high-profile defections from opposition parties to its fold in the last year, may not have taken strong hold in many local areas of the country.

INEC conducted the local elections across the six council areas of the FCT, including Gwagwalada, on Saturday. The rest are the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Abaji, Kwali, Abaji and Kuje.

Kamal Alkasim

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared two All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates as winners of Saturday’s by-elections in Rivers state.

TheCable reported that the by-elections were conducted to fill vacant seats in the state house of assembly — Ahoada East constituency II and Khana constituency II.

Napoleon Ukalikpe of APC was declared the winner of Ahoada East constituency II with 3,980 votes, while his closest challenger, Godstime Egor of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), scored 38 votes.

For the Khana constituency II seat, Bulabari Henrietta Loolo of APC won the poll with 7,647 votes, while Anthony Ndor of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) garnered 47 votes.

Ahoada East constituency II seat became vacant following the resignation of Ehie Edison, who is now the chief of staff (CoS) to Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers state.

Dinebari Loolo’s death in September 2023 created the vacancy for the Khana constituency II seat in the Rivers House of Assembly.

TheCable observed that the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party (LP) were absent from the ballot sheets for the by-elections.

By Dr. Saifullahi Shehu Imam

Politics is often debated in abstract terms of strategy and alignment. But sometimes, it is written in the language of the streets, the markets and the stadiums.

The formal reception of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress (APC) was one such moment, but to define it merely as a “defection” is to miss the profound human story at its core.

From the moment the Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Kashim Shettima’s delegation touched down at Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, it was clear this was not a routine political event; it was a historic convergence of federal intent and grassroots will.

The journey to the Sani Abacha Stadium was, in itself, a powerful political narrative. The first stop was not a politician’s lounge, but the fire-ravaged Singer Market. There, amidst the charred remains of shops and livelihoods, the Vice President Shettima delivered more than just a condolence message, where he also announced a concrete federal commitment of ₦5 billion to support the affected traders. This was not a symbolic politics; it was governance meeting grief with action.

For the traders of Kano, this single act transformed a political realignment into a tangible promise of partnership. It signaled that Kano’s alignment with the centre has already started yielding immediate, practical and tangible support for its people in their moment of need.

From the market, the procession to the stadium became a rolling testament to the depth of this new alliance. The mammoth crowd that lined the streets and filled the venue was not a rented gathering. It was a cross-section of Kano’s very soul. This massive turnout was more than a welcome party; it was a clear and potent signal of electoral mathematics. Public energy of that magnitude rarely gathers around symbolism alone; it gathers around expectation. It was a strong indication that the APC, now fortified with Governor Yusuf’s leadership and grassroots structure, is poised for a landslide in 2027.

The message from the crowd was unambiguous. The coast is clear for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to secure Kano’s votes, for Governor Abba to secure a second term, and for the party to sweep elections from the National Assembly down to the State Assembly.
In his address, Governor Yusuf framed the move not as a personal ambition, but as a strategic decision to bring Kano into the “mainstream of our national politics” and align with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The logic is undeniable. Kano, as the North’s commercial and demographic powerhouse, has often been held back by being at odds with the federal government. This realignment changes that equation overnight. It means Kano will no longer be a political outlier but a primary beneficiary of federal infrastructure, economic investment, and developmental programmes. It means a direct pipeline from the Renewed Hope Train to the heart of Kano. This is what “Kano First with Renewed Hope” truly means. It means a new compact where federal power is not a distant concept but a present partner in progress. The foundation has been laid, not in sand, but in the solidarity of its people. Now, the work of building a greater Kano begins.

Dr. S.S. Imam is a senior researcher and a political analyst from Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria. He can be reached via: saifaz2005@gmail.com

By Kamal Alkasim

Kenneth Eze (APC-Ebonyi) has called for a nationwide debate on replacing Nigeria’s current two-term, four-year presidential cycle with a single 16-year tenure.

(APC-Ebonyi) has called fotionwide debate on replacing Nigeria’s current two-term, four-year presidential cycle with a single 16-year tenure.

Mr Eze, chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation, said this on Monday while addressing journalists at his Ohigbo-Amagu country home in Ezza South LGA.

He noted that frequent election cycles undermined policy continuity and stalled national development.

“Every four years, we return to campaign mode. By the third year, governance slows as attention shifts to re-election; that is why projects are abandoned, and policies are not allowed to mature.

“Nigeria’s constitution provides for a four-year presidential term, renewable once, but if you ask me, I will advocate one tenure of 16 years. It sounds controversial, but it will allow policies to run their full course and stabilise the system,” Mr Eze explained.

Mr Eze, therefore, proposed scrapping the two-term structure in favour of a single, extended tenure that would free leaders from electoral pressures and enable them to pursue long-term reforms.

The lawmaker noted that critical sectors such as power, infrastructure, agriculture and fiscal reform required sustained commitment beyond short political cycles.

According to him, irrigation schemes, mechanised farming programmes, and energy reforms require continuity to yield a measurable impact. He defended recent economic measures, including the removal of the fuel subsidy, describing them as unavoidable steps to avert fiscal collapse.

”We were borrowing to pay salaries. That is not sustainable for any country; tough decisions are necessary to secure long-term stability,” said Mr Eze.

Mr Eze maintained that his proposal should be seen as a governance conversation, not an assault on democracy. He called for a broader national dialogue on constitutional reform to determine whether an extended tenure could improve implementation while preserving checks and balances.

He acknowledged that any amendment would require approval by the National Assembly and ratification by state legislatures, but stressed that the process must remain transparent and participatory.

Beyond tenure reform, Mr Eze urged citizens to embrace civic responsibility and patriotism. He challenged journalists, teachers, civil servants and parents to promote national values, warning that policy changes alone could not transform the country.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, as a Renewed Hope Ambassador and the Deputy Director-General for Party Outreach, Engagement, and Mobilisation.

The appointment, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at strengthening the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to a statement released on Monday, the President leveraged Governor Sani’s “salient leadership and organisational abilities” to fill the role. As Deputy Director-General, Sani will work closely with the party hierarchy, particularly the National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje—to ensure harmony and strategic coordination across the party’s mobilisation framework.

In an official letter conveying the appointment, President Tinubu outlined the strategic importance of the new role.

“The overall objective of your appointment is to ensure that the entire citizenry is aware of, understands, and ultimately supports our party and its candidates at all levels for broad national acceptance in the 2027 election,” the President wrote.

“Preparation is critical and essential to achieving this outcome, and your leadership will be central to guiding this process effectively and strategically.”

The President further charged Sani with galvanising support for the party’s policies and milestones, reinforcing the “Renewed Hope” agenda nationwide.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Abba Kabir Yusuf has relieved Engr. Buba Galadima of his position as Chairman of the Governing Council of Kano State Polytechnic.

The decision was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

In his place, the Governor approved the appointment of the Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, Emir of Gaya, as the new Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council.

According to the statement, the removal followed a restructuring process aimed at aligning the Polytechnic with the administration’s Kano First Agenda and ongoing reforms to enhance institutional performance. Although members of the Governing Council are expected to serve a three-year tenure, Galadima’s appointment was terminated before its expiration as part of the reform measures.

Governor Yusuf expressed appreciation to Galadima for his contributions during his tenure and urged the new Chairman to deploy his experience and leadership in repositioning the Polytechnic for improved academic and administrative excellence.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced a change in the leadership of its National Convention Central Coordination Committee, replacing Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, with former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bello Masari, as chairman.

The development was made public on Friday by the party’s National Secretary, Surajudeen Basiru, through an official statement.

“In further consultation with the leadership and national stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Central Coordination Committee for the 2026 National Convention has been reconstituted,” the statement reads.

“Sub-committees of the Central Coordination Committee will be constituted and announced in due course.”

Following the restructuring, Uzodimma, who previously headed the committee, will now serve as treasurer in the new arrangement approved by the party leadership.

The ruling party also increased the committee’s membership from 73 to 90. The expansion brought in more party leaders, including Barry Mpigi, senator representing Rivers South-East.

Under the revised composition, former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim, emerged as Vice-Chairman I. Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, was named Vice-Chairman II. Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, retained his position as secretary of the committee.

Meanwhile, the APC released an updated timetable for its nationwide congresses, national convention, and other activities scheduled for 2026.

In a notice shared on its X handle on Friday and titled “Adjusted APC 2026 schedule of nationwide congresses, national convention and related activities”, the party said forms for expression of interest and nomination would be sold at its national secretariat in Abuja.

“The Expression of Interest Form and the Nomination Form will be available for purchase and collection at the Directorate of Organisation, 2nd Floor, APC National Secretariat, No. 40 Blantyre Street, Wuse 2, Abuja,” the party said.

The party explained that all timelines were reviewed to ensure smooth and transparent conduct of the processes nationwide. It added that only forms obtained from the Directorate of Organisation at the national secretariat would be recognised as valid.

According to the APC, the adjustments in the timetable and the reconstitution of the committee reflect zoning considerations and efforts to strengthen internal democracy ahead of the 2026 national convention.

The party’s national convention is scheduled to hold between March 27 and 28.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed reports suggesting a possible replacement of Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a press statement issued and signed by the APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, CON in Abuja on January 26, 2026, the ruling party said it had observed increasing media attention around what it described as unfounded claims concerning the vice president’s position on the party’s future presidential ticket.

The APC noted that while the reports initially appeared subtle, they later escalated with the mention of specific individuals alleged to be under consideration as replacements for Vice President Shettima.

Reacting to the development, the party stated that “the stories are purely speculative, untrue and utterly baseless.”

The APC warned media organisations against providing platforms for what it called rumour merchants and unreliable sources, urging journalists to exercise caution and responsibility in their reporting. According to the party, such narratives were designed only to create tension and confusion within the political space.

The statement further reminded the public that political activities remain restricted under existing laws and electoral guidelines. It stressed that the party’s current priority is governance, with full support for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima as they pursue the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The APC said its focus remains on policies and reforms aimed at economic transformation, national prosperity, and improved living standards for Nigerians.

The party also advised ministers, senior government officials, and party leaders to avoid comments or actions that could fuel unnecessary speculation. It urged them to concentrate on effective service delivery and to strengthen public confidence in the achievements of the Tinubu-led administration.