The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Abubakar Gombe, has expressed strong confidence in the party’s candidates for the forthcoming Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) election, assuring residents that the SDP has presented competent and credible individuals ready to lead.
Speaking at the grand finale of the party’s campaign rally in Abuja, Gombe said leadership must be rooted in addressing the immediate needs and well-being of the people.
According to him, a true leader should create an environment where citizens feel secure, enjoy peace and directly benefit from governance.
He noted that the SDP chairmanship candidate had already demonstrated commitment to grassroots development by supporting indigent residents of AMAC through a personal foundation, adding that such interventions would be expanded if given access to Area Council resources.
“With the resources of the council, these efforts will be scaled up for the benefit of all residents,” he said, describing the SDP as a welfare-driven and people-oriented party.
Gombe urged residents to turn out en masse on election day, remain peaceful and ensure their votes are protected until the final results are announced. He expressed optimism that victory was within reach, citing the party’s programmes and the response received from the public during the campaign.
In his remarks, former SDP presidential candidate, Adewole Adebayo, called on Nigerians to demand accountability from leaders at all levels of government.
He criticised what he described as poor leadership at the national level, arguing that it has adversely affected public services and economic stability. Adebayo stressed that government exists to serve the people and called for transparency in elections, including proper transmission of results.
He also warned against fiscal irresponsibility, noting that excessive borrowing and poorly managed projects could place heavy burdens on future generations.
On his part, the SDP Chairmanship candidate for AMAC, Dr. Obinna Simon, declared that residents were ready for a new era of inclusive and accountable governance.
Dr. Simon said AMAC belongs to all residents indigenes and non-indigenes alike and must be administered fairly and equitably.
He pledged to prioritise functional public schools, improved primary healthcare, youth empowerment and transparent budgeting. He assured residents that an SDP-led administration would focus on practical service delivery, strengthen public institutions and ensure that leadership is earned through service.
Dr. Simon reaffirmed his commitment to building an AMAC anchored on social justice, transparency and sustainable development.
SDP Chairman Gombe Backs AMAC Flagbearer, Promises People-Centred Governance
NNPC Revenue Reform: Tinubu Showing Grit, Transparency Drive — Nwosu
Former Chief of Staff to a former Imo State Governor, Uche Nwosu, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for mandating that revenues from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited be paid directly into the Federation Account before any disbursement to the national oil company.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Nwosu described the directive as a bold fiscal reform aimed at entrenching transparency and strengthening accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
“For years, Nigerians have demanded greater clarity in the management of petroleum revenues. By ensuring that NNPC earnings first go into the Federation Account, the President has created a framework that allows proper scrutiny and institutional oversight,” he said.
Nwosu noted that the move would curb financial excesses and address longstanding concerns over revenue remittances within the oil sector.
“This decision will enable Nigerians to know exactly how much the country is earning from its oil resources. It reinforces public trust and aligns with global best practices in public financial management,” he added.
According to him, the reform reflects courage and reform-driven leadership, stressing that Tinubu’s action signals a determination to strengthen institutions and enforce fiscal discipline.
He further stated that effective implementation of the directive would enhance macroeconomic planning, improve revenue projections and strengthen fiscal relations among the three tiers of government.
Nwosu urged the administration to sustain the momentum of governance reforms, noting that Nigeria stands to benefit significantly from sustained transparency and institutional strengthening.
AMAC Poll: PDP Candidate Withdraws, Backs APC’s Maikalangu Ahead of FCT Elections
Barely 24 hours after a similar development in Bwari Area Council, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Zadna Dantani, has withdrawn from the forthcoming FCT Area Council elections and declared support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Christopher Zakka Maikalangu.
Dantani attributed his decision to the intervention of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, whom he described as the leader of the party in the territory. He disclosed that he had formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of his withdrawal ahead of the February 21, 2026 polls.
Addressing supporters, Dantani said the decision followed extensive consultations with his family and political associates. He characterised the contest as a “brotherhood election” and urged his supporters across the 12 wards of AMAC to rally behind Maikalangu.
He also linked his action to broader political considerations, including support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In his letter to INEC, Dantani stated that his withdrawal was voluntary and made after careful reflection. He emphasised that the decision was taken of his own free will.
The latest development signals a significant realignment in the political landscape of the FCT, coming on the heels of the withdrawal of the PDP chairmanship candidate in Bwari Area Council in favour of the APC candidate.
Wase: Alake Shuts Mining Site, Orders Full-Scale Probe into Deadly Gas Incident
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has ordered the immediate closure of areas covered by Mining Licence 11810 in Zuraq, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, following the tragic deaths of villagers allegedly exposed to poisonous gaseous emissions while mining.
The affected site, operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited and owned by Abdullahi Dan-China, was sealed off as part of urgent measures to prevent further casualties.
In a condolence call to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Alake expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, describing the victims as innocent citizens who died in the course of seeking a livelihood.
He urged the governor to convey his heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to the grieving families and the people of Wase.
The Minister has also dispatched a high-powered investigative team led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Yusuf Yabo, to unravel both the immediate and remote causes of the incident and recommend appropriate sanctions.
The team comprises experts in mining operations, environmental compliance and artisanal mining cooperatives.
Alake is personally coordinating the investigation and support services to ensure proper management of the situation.
Preliminary findings indicate that the company had ceded the abandoned pit to members of the community following agitation for empowerment. The site, reportedly an old lead mining location, is believed to contain stored minerals capable of emitting sulphuric oxide a toxic gas.
Unaware of the health risks, villagers allegedly carried out mining activities in the pit while inhaling the hazardous fumes, leading to the fatal incident.
Mining Licence 11810 is located between longitudes 10.34.45 and 10.35.50, and latitudes 9.13.45 and 9.14.40.
The Minister assured that further details would be made public as investigations progress.
Wike Hails Tinubu’s Lightning Signing of Electoral Act, Slams ‘Excuse Makers’
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has showered praises on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for wasting no time in signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law.
In a statement yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike described the President’s swift assent as bold, decisive and a strong signal of his commitment to credible elections.
The FCT Minister said the quick passage of the amended bill by the National Assembly and Tinubu’s immediate endorsement have knocked the wind out of those “already cooking up excuses” ahead of future elections.
According to him, democracy is a “work in progress” that must keep evolving to meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“We will keep getting it right as long as we continue to strengthen our laws,” Wike said, congratulating the President and lawmakers for what he called a major step towards deepening democracy.
He particularly applauded Tinubu for not keeping Nigerians waiting beyond 24 hours before appending his signature to the bill, insisting that the move shows serious leadership and readiness to consolidate the nation’s democratic gains.
Grassroots First: Social Democratic Party Rallies Bwari Voters Ahead of FCT Polls
The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Professor Abubakar Gombe, has urged residents of Bwari Area Council to take charge of their democratic future by electing credible leaders in Saturday’s FCT Area Council elections.
Gombe made the call during a courtesy visit by party leaders to the palace of the Awal Musa Ijakoro II, where they sought royal blessings ahead of the polls.
Addressing community stakeholders, the SDP chairman stressed that local government remains the closest tier of government to the people and plays a decisive role in addressing grassroots concerns. He noted that area council leadership directly impacts service delivery, infrastructure development, and social stability.
According to him, those contesting are not distant figures but members of the community who understand local challenges. He urged voters to assess candidates based on competence, accessibility, and integrity, reminding them that the responsibility for shaping Bwari’s future rests with the electorate.
Highlighting the party’s agenda, Gombe said the SDP is committed to people-centered governance anchored on economic empowerment, improved security, and efficient service delivery. He reaffirmed the party’s resolve to implement its manifesto in ways that deliver tangible benefits to local communities.
He also called for peaceful and credible elections, encouraging residents to participate actively and ensure their votes reflect their aspirations for development.
In his remarks, former SDP presidential candidate, Adewale Adebayo, described area council elections as critical to national development, emphasizing that effective grassroots governance can ease pressure on the federal structure by ensuring essential services are managed locally.
Adebayo urged voters to exercise their civic rights responsibly and reject inducements, noting that voter turnout and vigilance remain vital safeguards against electoral malpractice. He also stressed the need for collaboration between elected officials and traditional institutions, saying royal fathers possess invaluable community knowledge that should complement governance efforts.
The party’s chairmanship candidate for Bwari, Abubakar Abdullahi, pledged inclusive governance and grassroots-driven development if elected. Accompanied by his running mate, Mr. Pope Ngoposha, Abdullahi said his ambition is rooted in service and collective progress.
He promised a leadership style that reflects Bwari’s diversity, assuring residents of transparency, participatory decision-making, improved infrastructure, and strengthened social cohesion.
Responding, the Sarkin of Bwari, Awal Musa Ijakoro II, called on political actors and residents to ensure peaceful participation in the elections. He emphasized unity, mutual respect, and the power of the ballot, reminding stakeholders that leadership ultimately reflects the will of the people and the grace of God.
The monarch prayed for a hitch-free exercise and urged candidates to avoid actions capable of disrupting public order.
The FCT Area Council elections are scheduled to hold across the six area councils, with stakeholders underscoring the need for transparency, security, and robust voter turnout.
Bwari Bombshell: PDP Candidate Bows Out, Throws Weight Behind APC Man Days to Poll
Political fireworks erupted in Bwari on Wednesday as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate, Julius Adamu, dramatically stepped down for the All Progressives Congress (APC) flagbearer, Joshua Ishaku Musa — barely 72 hours to the FCT Area Council elections.
Adamu announced his withdrawal at a rally, revealing that his decision followed consultations with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
“I have been in deep consultation with the FCT Minister. Joshua and I are brothers. It will not be nice for two brothers to fight over one office,” he said.
“Therefore, I have relinquished my ambition and I urge all my supporters to queue behind Hon. Joshua.”
The shock move sent waves through the political camp in Bwari, with supporters cheering as the two politicians embraced publicly.
Wike, who was present at the event, did not mince words as he canvassed support for the APC candidate.
“People of Bwari, if you vote for Joshua, I will do more roads in Bwari,” the minister declared.
“On Saturday, come out en masse and make sure Joshua wins.”
The last-minute alliance is expected to significantly alter the battle for Bwari Area Council, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at the polls.
‘Love Him or Hate Him, He Delivers!’ — Gusau Applauds Wike’s Massive FCT Makeover
Former Coordinating Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Prof. Aminu Gusau, has showered praise on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr.Nyesom Wike, declaring that his bold governance style and sweeping infrastructure renewal in Abuja stand out as exemplary.
Gusau spoke on Tuesday in Abuja at the 2026 Annual Distinguished Personality Lecture organised by the Faculty of Social Sciences, Yakubu Gowon University, where Wike delivered a lecture titled, “The Impact of Political Leadership on Infrastructural Development in Nigeria: Between Dividends of Democracy and Good Governance.”
As chairman of the occasion, Gusau described Wike as a public servant whose time in office has been marked by “visible transformation and accelerated project delivery.”
Since assuming office in August 2023, he said, Wike has launched an aggressive drive to restore the Abuja Master Plan, fix failing infrastructure and revive projects abandoned for years.
“Major road networks have been completed and rehabilitated. Key roads linking the city centre to satellite towns are now motorable and functional,” Gusau said.
He listed the Apo–Wasa Road project, rehabilitation of inner-city corridors and upgrades of strategic junctions as key interventions that have boosted movement and business activities across the capital.
According to him, satellite towns such as Gwagwalada, Kubwa, Bwari and Karu are also benefiting from new roads, improved drainage and public infrastructure upgrades.
“Several previously stalled contracts have been revived and completed. That shows a governance approach that prioritises continuity and accountability,” he added.
Beyond roads, Gusau said the Wike-led administration has tightened development control, reformed land administration and stepped up enforcement to restore order and improve transparency in the FCT.
He also credited investments in street lighting, sanitation and public space management for improved security and a cleaner city.
“Leadership is not always comfortable. It requires firmness and sometimes unpopular decisions,” Gusau said.
Drawing from his 27 years in the United States and experience as a university lecturer, he said effective leaders share one thing in common they mean well for the people and act on it.
“You may like his personality; you may not like his personality. But one thing is certain: he works and he works for the people,” Gusau declared.
He stressed that governance should be judged by results, not rhetoric.
“Infrastructure matters. Systems matter. Leadership becomes real when citizens can see completed roads, revived projects and improved order,” he said.
According to him, Wike’s tenure in the FCT offers “clear evidence of performance-driven governance” proof, he insisted, that bold leadership can turn plans into visible progress.
Teargas at NASS: Police Break Up #OccupyNASS Protest Over E-Transmission
Armed police officers on Tuesday fired teargas to disperse hundreds of Nigerians gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly of Nigeria in Abuja under the banner of the National Opposition Movement (NOM).
The protesters had converged on the complex to demand mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results in future polls. The rally, however, was abruptly cut short when security operatives moved in and released teargas canisters into the crowd.
Among prominent figures present at the demonstration were former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili; former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Adewole Adebayo; and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, among others.
The incident occurred shortly after the leaders addressed supporters, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in their demand for electoral reforms. Eyewitnesses said the Divisional Police Officer overseeing security at the complex ordered anti-riot personnel to disperse the gathering.
Moments later, teargas was fired, triggering panic as protesters fled, coughing and gasping for breath. Some demonstrators were reportedly injured in the confusion.
Despite the initial crackdown, a section of the crowd regrouped near the National Assembly gate in defiance of the police action. Reinforcements, including several police Hilux vans loaded with armed officers, were deployed to the scene, and additional teargas canisters were discharged to disperse the protesters again.
The disruption spilled into parts of the nearby Federal Secretariat, with passersby caught in the chaos.
The protesters later reconvened at a distance from the gate, chanting anti-government slogans and condemning the police action as undemocratic and excessive.
As of press time, the police had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
No Shake-Up in Imo, CBM Insists; Cubana Chief Priest Still in Charge
The national leadership of the City Boy Movement (CBM) has dismissed reports of a leadership crisis in Imo State, describing claims of a shake-up as false and misleading.
In a statement on Tuesday, the group faulted publications by Silvernews and other online platforms alleging that Prince Francis Uzor had been removed as State Coordinator and replaced with Hon. Eric Uwakwe, Special Adviser on Youth Affairs to Governor Hope Uzodimma, before a supposed reversal.
The movement made it clear that there is no ongoing or concluded plan to review the appointment of any State Coordinator in Imo State.
According to the statement, the only duly recognised and officially appointed leader of the group in the state remains Cubana Chief Priest, whose real name is Paschal Okechukwu.
CBM stressed that no new appointment has been issued or validated beyond that, adding that reports of parallel leadership structures, withdrawal of appointments or internal wrangling do not represent its official position.
“The City Boy Movement remains a structured and disciplined organisation. Any ambiguity arising from recent correspondence is a ploy to discredit the integrity of the group,” the statement read.
The movement reaffirmed that it follows clearly defined procedures in handling appointments and coordination matters, noting that any official decision would be formally communicated through authorised channels.
CBM further declared that members nationwide remain united in mobilising grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda ahead of the 2027 general elections.
It urged members and the public to disregard unverified reports capable of causing confusion, reiterating its commitment to unity, transparency and organisational discipline across the country.