Category: Politics

I’m still with Labour Party,
Peter Obi insist amid ADC Coalition

Peter Obi has clarified that he remains a committed member of the Labour Party (LP) even as he supports the opposition coalition built around the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking on Sunday, July 6, on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics programme, Obi said his involvement with the ADC-backed coalition should not be interpreted as anti-party behaviour.

“The coalition just adopted a party for 2027. So, we are trying to work together for the sake of Nigeria,” he said.

He explained that his role in the coalition is aimed at building a stronger, united front capable of delivering good governance, not abandoning the Labour Party.

“Today, I am a Labour Party member. I remain in the Labour Party. But we have all agreed to work as a coalition for the 2027 election, and for that, we’ve adopted ADC. Going on, other parties, other individuals will also come in,” Obi said.

The former Anambra governor said the shared goal among the coalition members is to install a competent and credible government to replace the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration led by President Bola Tinubu.

“We want better governance for this country. We want to see a more competent government with capacity and character,” he said.

He also noted that the coalition could expand further, potentially changing party names or including more political actors.

“This coalition might have other parties as it happened in the past, and change the name of the party. I am a member of this (Labour Party) and I am going to work with this group,” he added.

Obi insisted that his support for the ADC-led alliance should not be seen as disloyalty to the LP, adding that the collaboration is targeted at the 2027 elections, not the present.

“No, there is no anti-party. Remember, we said for 2027. We are not in 2027; we are in 2025. It’s clear. We’ve adopted it for 2027.

“So, if I say I am going to be part of your dinner in the evening, that doesn’t mean I should abandon my breakfast and lunch,” Obi said.

I’m Ready to Be One Term President, Power Must Remain in the South – Amaechi

Former Transportation Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, has declared his readiness to serve as President for a single term, should he be elected in 2027. Amaechi emphasized his commitment to the rotational presidency arrangement between the North and South, stressing that the South should be allowed to complete its tenure.

As a key member of the opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Amaechi’s stance comes as the group prepares to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC in the 2027 general elections. The coalition has recently partnered with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), appointing former Senate President David Mark and ex-Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola to key positions.

Amaechi warned that the North must respect the zoning arrangement, allowing the South to conclude its eight-year tenure in 2027. His comments underscore the complexities of Nigeria’s power dynamics and the ongoing debate around rotational presidency.

2027: Malami Dumps APC, Joins ADC Over National Concerns

Former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Malami cited national interest as the reason for his decision, stating that it was made after “deep reflection and broad consultations.”

Reasons for Leaving APC

Malami expressed concerns over the deteriorating security and economic conditions in northern Nigeria, particularly the rise of banditry, kidnappings, and terrorism. He accused the APC-led government of prioritizing political interests over citizens’ safety and welfare.

Critique of APC

Malami criticized the APC for sidelining good governance, saying appointments and policies favor political loyalty over national development. He stated that the party has become a system that “watches in silence as Nigerians suffer and die.”

Why ADC?

Malami joined the ADC because it stands for justice, competence, and national renewal, aligning with his values and vision for Nigeria’s future. The ADC is building a broad opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, aiming to rescue the country from its current trajectory and restore hope to the people.

If Wike Can Stay in PDP Work in APC, We Can Also Stay in PDP Work in Coalition – Ologbondiyan

A former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan, has stirred debate over party loyalty and coalition politics. He argues that PDP members can remain in the party and still align with a broader political coalition aimed at unseating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

Ologbondiyan cites the example of Minister Nyesom Wike, who remains a PDP member but supports President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led government and has declared support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid. “If Wike can stay in the PDP and work with the APC, we can also stay in the PDP and join the coalition,” Ologbondiyan stated.

He highlights the fluidity of party affiliations in the current political landscape and expresses concerns over pressure on PDP governors to defect to APC, alleging intimidation and coercion. Ologbondiyan notes that President Tinubu’s intervention in the Rivers political crisis has weakened PDP’s standing in the state and reflects APC’s growing influence in opposition strongholds.

According to Ologbondiyan, external interference and targeted pressure have created a hostile environment for opposition figures, contributing to PDP’s instability.

Politicians Gather for Coalition Meeting

Several prominent politicians have arrived at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja for a coalition meeting. The gathering includes:

• Key Attendees:
  • Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State
  • Rotimi Amaechi, former Governor of Rivers State
  • Dino Melaye, former Minister of Youth and Sports
  • Dele Momodu, politician and entrepreneur
  • Senator Gabriel Suswam
  • Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Labour Party (LP)
  • Emeka Ihedioha, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives
  • Solomon Dalong

Expected Attendee:

• David Mark, former Senate President, is expected to lead other members of the coalition into the hall for the conference.

Parties Represented:

• Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
• Social Democratic Party (SDP)
• Labour Party (LP)
• African Democratic Congress (ADC)

Chris Brown Pleads Not Guilty in UK Court

American R&B singer Chris Brown appeared in a London court on Friday, pleading not guilty to a charge related to an alleged nightclub brawl in 2023. The 36-year-old singer, dressed in a dark suit and tie, stood in the dock and responded “Not guilty, ma’am” when the charge was presented.

Allegations and Bail

Brown is accused of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent. He has been released on £5 million ($6.7 million) bail. After entering his plea, Brown waved to supporters in the public gallery as he left the courtroom.

Trial Scheduled

A trial date has been set for October 26, 2026, with an expected duration of five to seven days. The case will proceed to trial, allowing both sides to present their arguments and evidence.

Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, a former Chief Security Officer to late General Sani Abacha, has announced that he will run for president in 2027.Al-Mustapha said he will run under the Social Democratic Party.