Politics

ADC Penetrates Okpebholo’s District As Defections Strengthen Party in Edo Central

Published

1 month ago

April 19, 2026

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a significant political gain in Edo Central, following a wave of defections from the district of Governor Monday Okpebholo, a development, party leaders have, described a boost to its growing strength ahead of the 2027 elections.

The defectors, drawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), were received in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area, by the ADC State Chairman, Tony Alile, alongside party leader, Kenneth Imansuagbon.

The influx, described as a strategic breakthrough, is seen as a major inroad into the governor’s political base in Edo Central.

Addressing journalists, weekend, Alile said the defection was a clear reflection of public discontent and a sign of shifting political loyalty in the region.

“This is an organic, people-driven movement. Nobody was induced to be here. The turnout speaks volumes about the frustration in the land and the desire for a credible alternative,” he said.

He added that the development signals a changing tide in Esan land.

“The political tide has shifted. If elections were held today in Esan land, ADC would emerge victorious. Even committed members of other parties are identifying with us. ADC has come to stay.”

On internal party matters, Alile acknowledged existing grievances but noted that reconciliation efforts were ongoing.

“In every contest, there are bound to be aggrieved persons. However, we have activated our conflict resolution mechanisms to bring everyone together,” he stated.

Also speaking, Imansuagbon described the mass defection as a rejection of entrenched political structures.

“Edo people have made it clear that power does not belong to a few cartels. What you are seeing here is a revolt by the people,” he said.

“We are tired of kidnapping, hunger and unemployment. The people have found a platform they believe can take them to a better future.”

The event also featured the unveiling of new aspirants, including House of Assembly hopeful, Engr. Barnabas Odion, who declared his intention to contest the Esan South East State Constituency seat under the ADC.

Odion, a former PDP member, said his decision to defect was driven by the need to address neglect and poor representation in the area.

“Esan South East has suffered neglect in infrastructure and representation. I am offering myself as a vehicle for positive change,” he said.

Party leaders reiterated their commitment to consolidating the ADC’s presence across Edo State, describing the latest defections from the governor’s district as a major boost to the party’s grassroots expansion.

Politics

NDC Warri Fed. Constituency Candidate, Mulade, Pledges Inclusive Representation

Published

2 days ago

May 30, 2026

Editor

The winner of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election for Warri Federal Constituency, Dr Sheriff Mulade, has
assured constituents of prioritising their interests through effective, people-oriented, and responsive representation if elected at the general election.

This was contained in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Warri on Saturday.

Chief Mulade, while expressing profound gratitude to party delegates, supporters, and constituents for the overwhelming support that secured him victory, described the outcome of the election as a demonstration of the confidence, trust, and acceptance reposed in him by the people of Warri Federal Constituency.

The environmental rights activist and peace advocate said he remains humbled by the mandate entrusted on him.

According to him, the victory belongs, not just to him, but to every resident of the constituency who believes in the ideals of good governance, unity, and sustainable development.

“I deeply appreciate all those who participated in the electoral process, especially the delegates, supporters, and well-wishers who stood firmly behind my aspiration. Your support, trust, and confidence mean a great deal to me,” he stated.

Comrade Mulade further called for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective progress among the three major ethnic nationalities that make up the constituency—the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo—stressing that the future of Warri Federal Constituency depends on collaboration and mutual inclusiveness.

He noted that the outcome of the primary election reflects the people’s desire for inclusive leadership, grassroots-driven representation, and a renewed commitment towards addressing the developmental needs of the constituency.

“I dedicate this victory to God Almighty and all the people of Warri Federal Constituency whom I seek to serve. This mandate is a call to greater responsibility, and I assure you that I will not let you down. Together, we shall build a constituency where every community has a voice and every citizen has a stake in our collective progress,” Mulade added.

The NDC candidate also urged party members and supporters to remain united and focused as the party prepares for the next phase of the electoral process.

He emphasized that victory can only be sustained through solidarity, commitment, and a shared vision for the development of Warri Federal Constituency.

Politics

‘The Country Is Bleeding’ – Oba Olaitan On Why Nigerians Must Replace Tinubu In 2027

Published

4 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

The leader of Afenifere, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, has explained why Nigerians, through the ballot, must as a matter of urgency, replace the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government in 2027.

He said Nigeria urgently needs a change of government to address insecurity, economic hardship, and threats to democracy.

Olaitan spoke this weekend at the SDP 2026 National Convention and Presidential Primaries held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi State.

Addressing delegates and party members, the Afenifere leader said Nigeria was currently “bleeding” under the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration.

According to him, worsening insecurity across the country has left citizens living in fear.

“Our people can no longer sleep with both eyes closed because of the unrelenting wave of insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes that have turned farmlands into killing fields and turned hope into fear,” he said.

Olaitan also lamented the state of the economy, saying the rising cost of living had pushed many Nigerians into hardship.

“At the same time, the economy has been brought to its nadir. Prices of basic goods have gone beyond the reach of ordinary families. Our youths roam the streets without jobs, and our farmers and traders struggle daily just to survive,” he stated.

The Afenifere leader accused the APC government of weakening opposition parties and undermining Nigeria’s democracy.

“Nigerian democracy is under threat today with a government that is jittery about constructive opposition,” he said.

“As we are all aware, the APC government breaks any identifiable opposition into fractious factions, while destroying the very basis of the multiparty system.”

Olaitan maintained that the suffering in the country was a result of wrong policy choices and not an act of God.

“This suffering of many is not an act of God. It is the direct result of wrong choices and of neoliberal economic policies that put market forces and elite comfort above the welfare of the people,” he added.

He said the next general election should not be seen as a battle between ethnic or religious groups but between the ruling party and Nigerians facing poverty and hardship.

According to him, the SDP remains the party best positioned to deliver social justice, economic recovery, and democratic inclusion.

“SDP is not just another political party; it is the party that best reflects the values of social justice, equity, and a genuine concern for the masses and for democracy,” he said.

Politics

NDC Clears Air On Reports Of Aspirants Being Prevented From Participating In Primaries

Published

4 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

The Screening and Selection Committees of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has reacted to the reports that some aspirants are allegedly being prevented from participating in the ongoing party primaries across the country.

In a statement signed by Osa Director Esq., the National Publicity Secretary, NDC, the party said categorically that all aspirants who successfully completed the screening process have been duly cleared and are therefore eligible to participate in the primaries.

“Consequently, any action by any state chapter or party official aimed at preventing a duly cleared aspirant from participating in the exercise is null, void, and of no effect whatsoever,” the statement said.

“No aspirant should be denied the opportunity to participate in the primaries in any part of the country.”

The NDC said it remains a progressive and people-oriented political party firmly committed to the principles of accountability, transparency, fairness, and inclusivity.

It added, “It is therefore unacceptable for any arm of the party’s administrative structure to act contrary to these core values and guiding principles.”

The party said that members and officials at all levels are directed to ensure that the primaries are conducted peacefully, transparently, and strictly in accordance with the constitution, guidelines, and regulations of the party.

It said, “The primaries for the presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections will hold nationwide on May 29, 2026.

“Aspirants are further advised to note that, aside from the State Assembly primaries, which will hold within the respective constituency areas, all other primaries shall take place at the local government level as earlier communicated by the party.”