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ADC Launches Bold Constitution Revamp: Mark Pledges Unity, Transparency, and Unbreakable Democratic Foundations

By
Toyin Adebayo
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…As Party Positions Itself as Nigeria’s Credible Opposition Force

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has taken a landmark step to strengthen its internal democracy by inaugurating a powerful Constitution Review Committee, signaling a renewed commitment to building a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable political platform.

National Chairman Sen. David Mark led the inauguration ceremony on Thursday in Abuja, charging the committee to develop a constitution that upholds the party’s core values while adapting to modern challenges.

“You must listen to party members at every level, honor our founding principles, and deliver a constitution that bolsters internal democracy, enforces discipline, and ensures transparency,” Mark declared, emphasizing the gravity of the task.

He described the review not as a radical overhaul but as an essential reinforcement: “This is about fortifying our principles—ensuring clarity, fairness, inclusivity, and accountability. It’s about empowering members, fostering unity, resolving disputes equitably, and establishing the ADC as a trusted alternative for national leadership.”

Mark hailed the event, attended by key National Working Committee members, as a pivotal milestone: “This inauguration reflects our determination to create a party rooted in robust democratic values, unity, and good governance.”

Viewing the constitution as the party’s “moral compass and legal foundation,” Mark stressed its role in defining ideology, guiding conduct, and protecting internal democracy. With the party’s growing influence, he said the review is timely to address current realities, anticipate future needs, and align with global democratic standards.

He urged the committee to work with open minds, extensive consultations, and dedication to the ADC’s broader interests.

The committee’s mandate is broad: reviewing the current constitution, incorporating best practices, promoting inclusivity and transparency, clarifying organ roles, reforming dispute and disciplinary processes, ensuring alignment with Nigeria’s national constitution and electoral laws, consulting across geopolitical zones, and prioritizing women and youth involvement.

Chaired by Etigwe Uwa, SAN, the committee includes prominent figures such as Barr. Peter Iyeola Oyewole, Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum, Hon. Ishaka Bawa, Sen. Ehigie Uzamere, Mrs. Sally Oguni-Agbo (PhD), Barr. Aishatu Dan-Kani, Prof. Lawal Salihu, H.E. Emeka Ihedioha, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, Hon. Mohammed Kumaila, Barr. Suleiman Usman (SAN), Bar. Zawo Osu, D.I.G. Ibrahim Adamu (RTD), Dr. Rasaq Oyelami Saliu, Sen. E.Y. Orker-Jev, Sen. Idris Abdullahi Umar, Chief Ralph Nwosu, Barr. Amanda Pam, Prof. Mohammed Sani Bello, Dr. Paul Angya, and Rukayya Lamido Dodo.

In response, Chairman Uwa pledged a diligent, inclusive effort: “We will commit fully to crafting a forward-looking constitution with strong grassroots mobilization and effective dispute resolution to protect the party from common crises.”

He stressed balanced design: “Constitutions should be broad and embracing, providing fair democratic selection processes for offices and candidates, drawing from best practices and innovative ideas to address challenges in Nigerian politics.”

Uwa highlighted the review’s goal to attract more members by meeting expectations for fairness and magnetism. “This isn’t because our current constitution is flawed—it’s to make it even stronger.”

He promised swift action through physical and virtual consultations: “We’ll seek wide input to produce an ideal, homegrown constitution with broad acceptance. We ask for your support and vow not to let the party down. Our work starts today with urgency and resolve.”

Port Harcourt–Bonny Road: Tinubu Kept His Word, Wike Tells Bonny People

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has declared that the completion of the Port Harcourt–Bonny Road is clear proof that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu keeps his promises.

Speaking during a thank-you visit to Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, Wike said the road has ended decades of political excuses and rewarded the loyalty of the people.

“This is why we are here—to say thank you. In 2023, it was not easy when we decided to support President Tinubu, but today, we thank God that it was the right decision,” Wike said.

He noted that there was no written agreement with the President, stressing that the only assurance was that the people’s support would not be in vain.

“The Bodo–Bonny Road was promised by every government. Year after year, nothing happened. I prayed that in our time, we would drive on this road—and today, we have,” he said.

Wike praised the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for turning the President’s vision into reality, adding that he deliberately avoided putting pressure on the Presidency.

“I didn’t want explanations. I just wanted to drive on the road,” he said.

Recalling past visits, Wike said Bonny was once a difficult destination, accessible mainly by helicopter.

“Before now, we only saw Bonny from the air. Today, we came by road. God be glorified,” he declared.

Describing the project as more than infrastructure, Wike said the road is a lifeline that connects people, creates jobs and unlocks economic opportunities.

“This road alone speaks louder than politics. It is not just a road; it is a workplace and a symbol that God’s time has come,” he said.

The former Rivers governor questioned why the people of Bonny would not support President Tinubu, saying the project had silenced all arguments.

“No one can come here to tell you stories again. What you can see is better than any promise,” he said.

Wike commended the unity of Bonny leaders and urged them to sustain cooperation for more development.

“Unity brings development. I will carry your message to Mr. President. What you will see in 2027 will explain why today matters,” he added, pledging not to disappoint the people who stood by him.

Earlier, Mr Cyril Heart, Representing Degema-Bonny Federal Constituency, commended Wike for championing women inclusion in governance in Rivers State and the country at large.

Describing the move as an “unspoken legacy” of the minister, the lawmaker recalled how Wike insisted that women must be vice chairman of local government councils in Rivers State.

He said that the National Assembly was making efforts to replicate what the minister did in Rivers State, through a bill that would institutionalise women inclusion in governance across the country.

Also, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Mr Abinye Pepple, described Wike as the most “dependable, reliable and cheerful leader” of Rivers politics.

Pepple commended the minister for the numerous projects he executed in the area during his tenure as the governor.

He equally commended the minister for being the first to give Ijaw people the opportunity to be governor in Rivers State.

““Also, for the first time in history, our people can drive from Bonny to Port Harcourt. This is an overwhelming experience.

 

“My father and mother didn’t experience that, but through you, Mr President has completed that project and now you can come to Bonny through land, through water and through air.

 

“For this and many others, we will deliver Bonny to Tinubu in 2027,” he said.

2026 LG Polls: Kogi PDP Chair Vows Fierce, Credible Opposition, Targets Lugard House

By
Roland Edet
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LOKOJA —Ahead of the 2026 local government elections and the 2027 general polls, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, Hon. Muhammed Sanni Gambo, has vowed to provide a strong and credible opposition capable of restoring public confidence and delivering purposeful governance in the state.

Gambo made the pledge on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Lokoja, where he described the media as a critical partner in deepening democracy.

In what he described as a “thank-you visit,” the PDP chairman expressed appreciation to the NUJ for its support during his legal battle, noting that the backing of journalists played a key role in his eventual victory.

“Your support during my struggle for justice means a lot to me. I am grateful for the confidence you reposed in me,” Gambo said.

Recently affirmed by the Federal High Court, Lokoja, on November 10, 2025, as the authentic PDP chairman in the state, Gambo stressed that justice, equity and fairness must guide the political process as Kogi approaches another election cycle.

“We must always stand by the truth and uphold the rule of law,” he said, while commending the judiciary for what he described as its courage in dispensing justice.

Calling for unity within the party, Gambo urged aggrieved PDP members to bury their differences and rally behind the new leadership, declaring that the party was repositioned to reclaim power in the state.

“We remain the biggest opposition in Kogi State, and we are determined to take over Lugard House in 2027,” he said.

The PDP chairman also declared that the party had “bounced back,” thanking party faithful for their resilience over the years and pledging to work with them to build a Kogi State free from oppression and fear.

Responding, the Vice Chairman of the Kogi NUJ Council, Comrade Ibrahim Obansa, who spoke on behalf of the council chairman, congratulated Gambo on his victory and urged political leaders to shun bitterness in their engagements.

“Politics should always be about service to the people. We must put the country first,” Obansa said.

He assured the PDP leadership of continued media collaboration in promoting peace and security in the state, while stressing the need for sustained efforts to flush out criminal elements.

“The media will continue to play its watchdog role while encouraging partnerships that enhance public safety,” he added.

Basiru’s Attack on Wike May Cost Tinubu Rivers Votes — Group Warns

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

Political tension is brewing in Rivers State as the Rivers Restoration Movement (RRM) has cautioned that recent remarks credited to the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Basiru, against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, could jeopardise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances in the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group, in a statement jointly signed by its Director-General, Hon. Johnson Georgewill, and Secretary, Mrs. Sarima Akpata, described Basiru’s comments—allegedly calling on Wike to resign and accusing him of interfering in Rivers politics—as careless and inflammatory.

RRM warned that such utterances could inflame tensions and undermine the fragile political balance in Rivers, a state it described as strategic to national electoral calculations.

The movement, which said it worked with over 40 affiliate groups to support the 2023 political realignment that produced Governor Siminalayi Fubara, noted that it would ordinarily have ignored the comments but was compelled to react because of Rivers State’s importance to President Tinubu’s political future.

“Rivers remains a major battleground. Any statement capable of destabilising the state has far-reaching implications for the ruling party and the President,” the group said.

RRM queried whether Basiru was privy to peace meetings and agreements reached between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, and whether he was aware of commitments reportedly made by the governor to uphold such agreements in the interest of stability and governance.

The group also questioned whether the APC scribe appreciated the political sacrifices and strategic role played by Wike in delivering Rivers State for Tinubu and boosting his vote spread during the 2023 presidential election.

Calling on the APC national leadership to rein in its National Secretary, RRM warned that public disagreements and internal party disputes could prove counterproductive.

The movement urged Wike to ignore political actors it described as lacking electoral weight and instead focus on building a broad-based coalition to secure Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

RRM further said such a coalition should work towards producing a new Rivers governor who embodies honesty, gratitude and teamwork, adding that, in the spirit of fairness and equity, a “grateful Rivers Ijaw son” should be considered as successor to Governor Fubara.

Rivers Crisis Deepens as Assembly Moves to Impeach Gov. Fubara, Deputya

By
Gladys Phillip
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Political tension heightened in Rivers State on Thursday as the State House of Assembly formally initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Dr. Ngozi Odu.

The impeachment move was announced during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Mr. Martins Amaewhule, where the Majority Leader, Major Jack, read a notice of allegations accusing the governor of gross misconduct.

The notice, which was reportedly endorsed by 26 lawmakers, alleged that Governor Fubara committed acts said to be in violation of provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Following the reading, Speaker Amaewhule disclosed that the impeachment notice would be served on the governor within seven days, in accordance with constitutional procedures.

In a related development, the Deputy Majority Leader, Linda Stewart, also read a separate notice of allegations of gross misconduct against the Deputy Governor, Dr. Ngozi Odu, during the same sitting.

The twin actions against the state’s top elected officials signal a fresh escalation in Rivers State’s lingering political crisis, raising concerns over governance and stability in the oil-rich state.

SDP State Chairmen Hail Adewole Adebayo at 54, Praise His Vision , Democratic Ideals

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) State Chairmen Forum, Mr. Femi Ferrari Olaniyi, has congratulated the party’s former presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, on his 54th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader and a committed patriot.

In a goodwill message issued in Abuja on behalf of the forum, Olaniyi said the anniversary was not merely a celebration of age, but a tribute to Adebayo’s lifetime of service to Nigeria, marked by dedication to national development, justice and unity.

He noted that the former presidential candidate’s leadership qualities and steadfast commitment to democratic ideals have continued to inspire members of the SDP and Nigerians across political divides.

According to Olaniyi, Prince Adebayo’s passion for good governance and selfless service has strengthened the party’s resolve to pursue people-oriented policies and democratic values.

The SDP State Chairmen Forum prayed for continued divine guidance, strength and good health for Adebayo, as he remains engaged in national service.

They wished him many more years of purposeful living and impactful contributions to the country.

SDP Showers Praises on Adewole Adebayo at Birthday, Says Nigeria Needs Him Now More Than Ever

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has rolled out the drums to celebrate its 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Ebenezer Adebayo, hailing him as an iconic patriot, true democrat and one of Nigeria’s most outstanding national assets.

In a statement issued on Thursday to mark Adebayo’s birthday, the Acting National Chairman of the party, Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, speaking on behalf of the National Working Committee (NWC) and party members nationwide, said Nigeria was fortunate to have a leader of Adebayo’s depth, intellect and character at this critical period.

The party described Adebayo as a man of uncommon vision whose ideas, values and lifelong commitment to justice, equity and people-centred governance continue to inspire hope across the country.

According to the SDP, Adebayo’s relentless efforts toward building a fair and prosperous Nigeria, where opportunities are not limited by class, status or creed, have earned him respect beyond partisan boundaries.

The party praised his philanthropic gestures, youth empowerment initiatives and mentorship of young professionals, noting that his impact on lives and communities across the country speaks louder than words.

“As he marks another year, we urge him to remain focused and undeterred in his mission to rebuild Nigeria and restore dignity to governance,” the statement said.

The SDP also prayed for long life, good health and greater fulfilment for its standard bearer, expressing confidence that the time for the full expression of his leadership qualities on the national stage would come sooner rather than later, for the good of Nigeria.

The statement was signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, and dated January 8, 2026.

Wike Vows Rainbow Coalition Will Secure All Elective Positions in Rivers in 2027

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured that candidates endorsed by his Rainbow Coalition will clinch all elective positions in Rivers State in the 2027 general elections.

Wike made the declaration on Wednesday during his “thank-you” visit to Asari Toru Local Government Area, describing the Rainbow Coalition as a unifying political platform under the Renewed Hope Family, which brings together members of different parties in support of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

“After Tinubu, the Rainbow Coalition will produce every elective position in Rivers State in 2027. So, if you are not part of this Rainbow Family, forget it,” Wike said.

The minister urged the people to remain steadfast in their support, noting that the gains Rivers residents are currently enjoying stem from their decision to back Tinubu in 2023. He also commended community leaders for their loyalty, emphasising that the risks they took in 2023 are now yielding tangible benefits.

“Continue on this path and you will continue to reap good results. I assure you that I will stand with you at the appropriate time,” Wike added.

The Chairman of Asari Toru Local Government, Mr. Onengiyeofori George, expressed appreciation for Wike’s contributions to the LGA, stressing that the people are united under the Renewed Hope Family.

Similarly, Chief Michael West, representing Asari Toru Constituency II in the State Assembly, commended Wike for rallying support for Tinubu and for facilitating the emergence of an Ijaw governor in the state—the first since Nigeria returned to democratic rule.

West pledged the continued support of the people, declaring their readiness to follow Wike in future political endeavours.

The visit underscores Wike’s ongoing mobilisation efforts in Rivers State as political stakeholders position for the 2027 elections.

Deliver Tinubu in Your States, Nwuche Urges Politicians

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Chairman of the South-South Development Commission, Chibudom Nwuche, has called on politicians across the country who claim to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate their loyalty by delivering their respective states for his re-election in 2027.

Nwuche made the appeal on Wednesday during a “thank you” visit by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, to Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives emphasised that politics is essentially local, cautioning outsiders to steer clear of Rivers State’s internal political matters.

“Politics is local. Those who want to prove their love for the President should go back to their states and show their political strength. Rivers State has its peculiar political dynamics that outsiders may not fully understand,” he said.

Describing Rivers as a political family, Nwuche stressed that loyalty, unity, and collective action are crucial for sustaining leadership, warning that division undermines gratitude and cohesion.

“When a leader takes a decision, the least the team can do is to stand together. Gratitude is not shown by breaking ranks,” he added.

Nwuche commended Wike for his foresight in mobilising Rivers people to support Tinubu’s presidential bid and Siminalayi Fubara’s governorship candidacy during the 2023 elections. He, however, expressed disappointment over Fubara’s performance, noting that many stakeholders supported the governorship choice largely out of trust in Wike’s leadership.

He also lauded Wike’s developmental record, revealing that over 22 projects were executed in Ahoada East alone under his administration—a feat he described as unmatched by any governor since 1999.

“No governor in Rivers State has made the kind of impact witnessed during your tenure. Wherever you go, we will go with you,” Nwuche said.

Speaking to the residents, Wike said the visit was aimed at appreciating their support during the 2023 elections and mobilising them ahead of the 2027 polls. He assured the people that leadership challenges confronting the state would be addressed, urging them to remain steadfast in backing President Tinubu.

Won’t Regret Supporting Tinubu, Fubara an Ungrateful Child – Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has declared that he has no regrets backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and will continue to support him, describing Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as a “bad and ungrateful child.”

Wike spoke on Wednesday during his ongoing “thank you” tour of Asa Local Government Area, as part of his visits across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State.

The former Rivers State governor said the visit was to appreciate the people for their steadfast support during the difficult period of the 2023 presidential election, noting that loyalty and gratitude remain the bedrock of enduring political relationships.

“Today, we are here to say thank you because you have always stood with us. No matter how tough it looked, you always came through with success. Now that all forces have come together and are united, we can sleep with our eyes closed, knowing that all is well,” Wike said.

He explained that it would have been wrong to return to the area without expressing appreciation, stressing that his political family does not take loyalty for granted.

“We are not ungrateful people. When people do good for us, we always come back to say thank you. Once you support us, we will never forget you,” he added.

Recalling the uncertainty that trailed the 2023 presidential election, Wike said the decision to support Tinubu was a bold political risk that has since yielded positive results.

“In life, you must take risks. In 2023, we did not know what would happen, but we took a decision. By God’s grace, that decision has paid off,” he said.

The FCT minister commended political leaders, elected officials and grassroots supporters in Asari-Toru LGA for their loyalty over the years, noting that gratitude remains central to political success and stability.

He maintained that leadership mistakes could only be resolved through accountability and corrective action, not propaganda or political confrontation.

“When a man makes a mistake and comes back to say, ‘I am sorry,’ the mistake can be corrected. No shouting, no propaganda can solve problems. Only accountability and correction can,” Wike stated.

Downplaying party affiliations, Wike said his political movement transcends party lines, describing it as a broad-based coalition.

“Here, we are not talking about party politics. What we have is a family a rainbow coalition. If you are not part of this family, forget it,” he said.

Wike thanked the people of Asari-Toru Local Government Area for their overwhelming support and assured them of his continued commitment to their welfare and the overall development of Rivers State, while praying for God’s blessings on the community.

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