₦airaland Forum

2027: Obi dismisses Jonathan threat


Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, on Tuesday downplayed speculations that former President Goodluck Jonathan could threaten his 2027 presidential ambition.

Obi spoke after undergoing the party’s presidential screening exercise at the national secretariat of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Abuja, which lasted over two hours.

Reacting to reports that Jonathan may join the 2027 presidential race on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, Obi said he was unconcerned about who might contest against him.

He said, “Actually, I’m not aware of that. But democracy is about people offering themselves for service and being voted for.

“I’m not in any way going around looking for who and who is contesting. I’m concentrating on how to build a better Nigeria.”

Obi said his focus remained on national unity, security, economic revival and the fight against corruption.

“This I will do by first uniting the country because it’s not a united country. We have to govern the country by the constitution of Nigeria, which stipulates federal character and inclusivity. The country must be united. The country must be secure.

“We want to see where mothers can no longer fear when their children go to school or work. We also want to know where we can travel all over Nigeria without fear,” he added.

Speaking on the lengthy screening process, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate described it as “democracy in action,” insisting that the exercise reflected the party’s commitment to due process and accountability.

“This is democracy in action because the NDC chooses to do things properly. So when we say this is going to be a screening, it has to be done right.

“Nigerians want to know whether you meet the stipulated constitutional qualification and provide relevant documents to back them.

“This is the way to know whether everything you have said or declared is nothing but the truth, and if you can answer questions that were posed about your commitment to building a united, secure and prosperous Nigeria. That’s why the screening took over two hours.”

Obi also dismissed reports suggesting he had emerged as the party’s consensus presidential candidate following alleged consultations with party leaders.

“The party just opened up their expression of interest and nomination forms for people to buy. So there is no consensus yet.

“Although I bought the forms, I don’t know other people who bought. So until the party says I’m the only one who expressed interest, that’s it.”

The former governor lamented worsening poverty and insecurity across the country, saying many Nigerians now struggle daily to survive.

“So many Nigerians today go to bed not knowing where the next meal will come from tomorrow. That must change.

“We must live in a country where people do not turn public assets and public wealth into private assets. So we must fight corruption to a standstill and make it work for everybody.”

He also criticised politicians for focusing more on elections than governance.

“Politicians are preoccupied with the next election when Nigerians are dying. That must stop,” Obi added.

Obi had arrived at the NDC national secretariat in Abuja at about 6:45pm for the screening exercise amid growing speculation that he is the frontrunner for the party’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

Dressed in his trademark black kaftan and cap, Obi arrived shortly after the chairman of the screening committee, Sam Egwu, entered the venue.

He was accompanied by the senator representing Anambra Central, Victor Umeh.

The NDC had earlier announced the appointment of Egwu as chairman of its 17-member screening committee for presidential, governorship, senatorial and House of Representatives aspirants.

In a statement issued by the party’s National Secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu, the committee was scheduled for inauguration on Tuesday evening.

Other members of the panel include Buba Galadima, Ikeddy Isiguzo, Wole Adedayo, Udenta Udenta and Henry Obaze.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/2027-obi-dismisses-jonathan-threat/%3famp

Fresh political and legal drama has emerged ahead of the 2027 elections as former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and the Federal Ministry of Justice asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a lawsuit seeking to stop Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election.

The case was filed by Abuja-based lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, who argued that Jonathan had already exhausted the constitutional limit for serving as Nigeria’s president.

Why The Lawsuit Was Filed

According to the suit, Jonathan first became president on May 6, 2010, after the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

He later contested and won the 2011 presidential election, serving another full term afterward.

The plaintiff argued that allowing Jonathan to contest again in 2027 would violate constitutional provisions limiting how many times a person can occupy the office of president.

The suit asked the court to determine whether Jonathan remained eligible “under any circumstances whatsoever” to run again.

Jonathan’s Lawyers Reject The Case

Jonathan’s lawyer, Chris Uche (SAN), urged the court to dismiss the suit completely and even requested ₦50 million costs against the plaintiff.

According to him, similar cases filed in the past against Jonathan had already been dismissed by Nigerian courts.

He also argued that constitutional amendments restricting people who had taken the presidential oath more than twice could not be applied retroactively against Jonathan.

Uche further accused the plaintiff of trying to use the courts as a political tool to stop Jonathan from exercising his constitutional rights.

“He has no locus standi to bring this action,” the lawyer argued.

AGF Also Wants Case Dismissed

The Attorney General of the Federation also supported Jonathan’s position.

A representative from the Ministry of Justice, Dr Maimuna Lamin Shiru, asked the court to dismiss the suit entirely.

However, the plaintiff’s lawyer insisted that the case raised important constitutional questions and argued that being a registered voter was not necessary before challenging the eligibility of a presidential aspirant in court.

Judge Fixes Judgment Date

Justice Peter Lifu has now fixed May 26 for judgment.

The court is expected to rule not only on the main case but also on a separate request by the plaintiff asking the judge to withdraw from the matter over alleged bias.

Political Reactions Already Building

The case has already generated discussions online and among political observers, especially as rumours continue to circulate about whether Jonathan may eventually return to active presidential politics ahead of 2027.

Although Jonathan has not officially declared any intention to contest, the lawsuit has further fueled speculation about his possible political future.

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/05/court-asked-to-stop-jonathan-from.html

The Nigerian military has intensified rescue operations following the mass abduction of hundreds of residents from Ngoshe community in Borno State.

According to the Defence Headquarters, troops under Operation Hadin Kai are currently carrying out intelligence-led operations across the Gwoza and Mandara Mountains areas in an effort to rescue the remaining captives.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, said the military remained deeply concerned about the fate of those abducted and was closely monitoring all developments linked to the attack.

Military Confirms Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Onoja revealed that security forces had already rescued some victims during recent military pressure operations, while efforts were still ongoing to recover others who remain in captivity.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, through Operation Hadin Kai, remains deeply concerned about the plight of abducted residents from Ngoshe community,” he stated.

He added that troops had intensified:

• Surveillance operations

• Patrols

• Intelligence gathering

• Offensive attacks on terrorist hideouts

to weaken the insurgents and prevent further attacks in surrounding communities.

How The Attack Happened

Reports say insurgents attacked a military base and invaded the Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area on March 4, 2026.

During the attack, several people were reportedly killed while about 416 residents mostly women and children were abducted by the terrorists.

Weeks later, the insurgents released a disturbing video demanding a ₦5 billion ransom and threatening to kill the captives if the money was not paid within 72 hours.

Between April 22 and 23, about 12 captives reportedly escaped during military operations, reducing the number of people still held to 404.

However, fresh fears emerged last week after another video allegedly showed the execution of five male captives who had earlier attempted to escape.

Troops Strengthen Security Presence

The Defence Headquarters said troops had now increased their presence across the affected region to stop any possible repeat of the attack.

According to the military, security agencies are also working closely with local communities and other stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and early warning systems.

The military assured Nigerians that troops remain committed to denying terrorists freedom of movement and protecting civilians across the North-East region.

The latest incident once again highlights the ongoing security challenges facing communities in parts of Northern Nigeria despite years of military operations against insurgent groups.

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/05/404-still-missing-nigerian-troops.html

Fear and tension have spread across parts of Oyo State after armed men reportedly attacked schools in the Oriire area, abducting teachers and several pupils during a violent invasion.

Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed on Sunday that at least seven teachers were kidnapped during the attack, while authorities are still trying to determine the exact number of missing pupils.

The governor also revealed that an Islamic Studies teacher was killed during the incident, describing the situation as painful and deeply troubling.

Six Suspects Arrested

Following emergency security meetings with military commanders and other security agencies, Makinde disclosed that six suspects had already been arrested within the affected community.

According to him, three additional persons of interest were also taken into custody as investigations continue.

Preliminary intelligence reports reportedly suggest that some of those arrested may have acted as informants for the attackers.

“The information available is that about six individuals have been arrested within the locality. Some of them we believe are informants,” the governor stated.

“Terrorists Are Moving Southward”

Makinde warned that increased military pressure on terrorists and bandits in Northern Nigeria could be forcing armed groups to move toward southern states.

According to him, states in the South must now strengthen security and prepare for possible attacks from criminals fleeing military operations in the North-West.

“With the pressure on the terrorists and bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward,” Makinde said.

The governor added that discussions were ongoing with leaders from other states over the growing security threat.

Government Engaging Religious Leaders

Makinde stressed that the state government would not rely only on military force to solve the crisis.

He said the government had already begun consultations with community leaders, elders, and religious bodies, including the Baptist Convention, since one of the affected schools belongs to the church.

According to him, a non-violent approach involving local leaders could help improve intelligence gathering and community cooperation.

Families Waiting For Good News

The governor appealed to residents to remain calm and assured affected families that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims safely.

“We are not taking this lightly. We will do everything within our means to resolve this quickly and bring our children back safely,” he assured.

Makinde also announced that the state government would begin daily press briefings to keep residents informed about rescue operations and security developments.

The latest incident has once again raised concerns over growing insecurity in parts of Nigeria, especially attacks targeting schools and rural communities.

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/05/they-are-moving-south-makinde-raises.html

Fresh fears are spreading across Africa after a new outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus reportedly killed no fewer than 80 people in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak has already affected at least three health zones Bunia, Rwampara, and Mongbwalu raising serious concerns among health authorities across the continent.

Health officials warned that the situation could become even worse due to the increasing number of suspected cases and the high positivity rate recorded from early samples.

WHO Describes Outbreak As “Extraordinary”

The World Health Organization described the outbreak as “extraordinary,” especially because the virus strain involved currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment available.

Unlike previous Ebola outbreaks linked mostly to the Zaire strain, this latest outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, which experts say remains more difficult to manage medically.

Ebola is a deadly virus that spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids of infected persons, contaminated objects, or dead bodies carrying the disease.

Symptoms include:

• Fever

• Vomiting

• Body weakness

• Diarrhoea

• Headache

• Muscle pain

• In severe cases, bleeding

Health experts say the disease can incubate for between two and 21 days before symptoms fully appear.

Nigeria Begins Monitoring Situation

Reacting to the outbreak, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention said it has increased surveillance and monitoring across the country.

NCDC Director-General Jide Idris said Nigeria was working closely with Port Health Services and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and prevent any possible spread into the country.

According to him, Nigerians should remain calm and avoid spreading false information or panic online.

The agency advised citizens to:

• Wash hands regularly

• Avoid contact with bodily fluids

• Avoid handling dead animals or unsafe bushmeat

• Report unusual sickness quickly to health authorities

Healthcare workers were also urged to remain alert and immediately isolate any suspected Ebola case.

Nigeria’s 2014 Ebola Experience Still Remembered

Many Nigerians still remember the 2014 Ebola outbreak when an infected traveler entered Lagos from Liberia.

At the time, Nigeria gained international praise for successfully containing the virus through rapid emergency action, contact tracing, and coordinated public health response.

That experience later pushed Nigeria to improve disease surveillance, emergency response systems, and laboratory capacity.

Growing Concerns Across Africa

The latest outbreak has already triggered fresh concerns among African health agencies due to increasing movement between countries across the continent.

The Director-General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Jean Kaseya, said discussions were ongoing about whether the outbreak should be declared a continental public health emergency.

For now, health authorities say there is no need for panic, but Nigerians are being advised to stay informed and follow only official health updates as the situation continues to develop.

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/05/80-dead-who-raises-alarm-over-fresh.html

The conviction and 75-year prison sentence handed to former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, has become one of Nigeria’s biggest anti-corruption cases in recent years.

The judgment followed nearly two years of investigations, court proceedings, legal arguments and dramatic twists linked to the controversial Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power projects.

Mamman, who served under former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2019 and 2021, was first arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in 2024 after investigators traced billions of naira allegedly diverted from government accounts meant for power projects.

The former minister was later arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a 12-count charge bordering on money laundering and diversion of public funds allegedly linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru projects.

According to court documents, the EFCC accused Mamman and others of diverting about N33.8bn through private companies, bureau de change operators and proxies.

Investigators alleged that part of the funds was converted into foreign currencies and used for property acquisitions.

During the trial, prosecutors presented bank records, financial documents, transaction trails and witness testimonies from ministry officials, bank staff and bureau de change operators.

The prosecution argued that the movement of funds did not follow normal government financial procedures and bore clear signs of money laundering.

Mamman’s legal team denied the allegations and argued that many of the transactions were official government disbursements carried out during his time as minister.

His lawyers also challenged the admissibility of several documents presented by the EFCC and insisted the former minister did not personally benefit from the transactions.

The case experienced multiple delays due to procedural issues, health concerns and legal applications.

At one point during the proceedings, Mamman reportedly slumped in court, forcing a temporary suspension of the trial.

However, on May 7, 2026, Justice James Omotosho convicted Mamman on all 12 counts.

The judge ruled that the EFCC had proven beyond reasonable doubt that the former minister participated in the unlawful diversion and laundering of public funds.

According to the court, the transactions showed deliberate movement of public money through private entities and intermediaries to conceal the source of the funds.

The drama intensified after Mamman failed to appear in court for sentencing.

Justice Omotosho immediately issued a bench warrant ordering security agencies to arrest the former minister wherever he is found.

On May 13, 2026, the court sentenced him in absentia to a cumulative 75 years in prison after ordering that the prison terms run consecutively instead of concurrently.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of properties, foreign currencies and recovered funds linked to the case to the Federal Government.

Among the forfeited assets were luxury properties in Abuja and large sums in dollars, euros, pounds and other foreign currencies.

The judgment has sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria, with many describing it as one of the toughest corruption sentences ever handed to a former cabinet minister.

The case has also renewed public anger over corruption in Nigeria’s power sector, where billions of naira have been spent over the years despite continued electricity challenges across the country.

As of now, Mamman remains out of public sight while security agencies continue efforts to arrest him and enforce the court judgment.

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/05/75-years-in-prison-how-former-power.html

HacheNoire:
💯💯💯💯

Verify you 💯💯🫡

brain54:
So so talk...


Na mouth una take dey fight una own bandits/terrorists for here!

I get your frustration, many Nigerians feel the same way.

But at the same time, security matters no be something wey go change overnight. Statements like this are one thing, real action is another na the results everybody dey wait for.

HacheNoire:
When you say neutral, can you please explain?

Two warring factions approaches INEC, either one INEC acknowledges, the loser will still blame INEC.

That is what is playing out. They throw INEC in the middle of what it has no knowledge of, and when INEC makes conclusions, the loser attacks INEC.

Those politicians know exactly what they doing!

You raised a very strong point, and it’s true that political parties put Independent National Electoral Commission in difficult positions.

When I say “neutral,” I mean INEC should make decisions strictly based on law, evidence, and clear processes not influenced by pressure from any side.

The real challenge is that even when INEC tries to act that way, trust becomes an issue because the losing side will always feel unfairly treated.

So the problem is both the behavior of politicians and how much confidence people have in the system.

This one strong… but implementation go matter pass statement

Support network na real issue, but make innocent people no suffer for it

Security matter don reach stage wey serious action needed

https://www.dobblog.online/2026/04/anyone-supporting-bandits-will-be.html

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has warned that anyone supporting bandits or terrorists will be treated the same as the criminals themselves.

He made this known during a recent visit to Kaduna, where he said those providing assistance whether through trade, information, or logistics would be identified and dealt with accordingly.

The statement suggests a tougher security approach that goes beyond targeting attackers to also focus on their support networks.

Nigeria continues to face security challenges, especially in the northern region, where banditry and insurgency remain major concerns.

👉 What do you think about this approach?

Now, our new strategy: A friend of a thief is a thief. Anybody who is doing any trading or providing any support to them, we will find you together and we will deal with you like bandits, like terrorists.

- Minister of Defense, Gen. CG Musa (Rtd), stated this following his visit… pic.twitter.com/6P5l82Et71

— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) April 13, 2026

True, funding is another important factor people don’t always talk about.

If an institution depends on the Federal Government for funding, it can raise concerns about how freely it can operate.

That’s why many people believe independence should not just be in name, but also in structure and operations.

brain54:
As long as the chairman is appointed by the president...


And inec itself relies on the fg for funds it can never be truly independent!

That’s actually where most of the concerns come from.

When the chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission is appointed by the President, people naturally question how independent the system can be.

Even if the process is legal, perception and trust still matter a lot in elections.

HacheNoire:
INEC has always been independent and still independent.

The question at hand should be why political party’s like to put INEC inbetween their chaos.

INEC does not cause the chaos. It all starts from the party, and INEC is thrown inbetween.

Either side INEC acknowledges, INEC will still be blamed.

The problem is not INEC but political party’s

Get your art right before approaching INEC.

You made a valid point. Political parties definitely play a big role in the chaos we see during elections.

But at the same time, institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission are expected to remain neutral and strong enough to manage that pressure.

So maybe the real issue is both party behavior and how strong the system is to handle it.

This question no be small one… e touch the foundation of democracy

Independence no just be by law, na by how people trust the system

Make we hear different opinions, this one concern everybody

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is known as Nigeria’s independent electoral body.

But many Nigerians are now asking a serious question how independent is it really?

By law, INEC is meant to operate without interference. However, its chairman is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, which has raised concerns among citizens.

Some believe this process could affect public trust, especially during elections. Others argue that the system is necessary and follows due process.

The INEC chairman serves a five-year term, with the possibility of reappointment, but leadership changes often happen alongside political transitions.

This has led to growing debates about whether an electoral body should be completely free from political influence.

👉 What do you think is INEC truly independent?

OSUigboFlatHead:
Whoever this failure endorses should be rejected.

That’s a strong statement, but in a democracy, candidates are assessed individually based on their records, vision, and performance.

Dapo Abiodun making an endorsement doesn’t automatically determine the outcome voters still make the final decision at the polls based on their own judgment.

yarimo:
Unserious opposition ADC will soon kick against it , as if it's part of their business

Opposition parties like the African Democratic Congress will naturally react to major political developments that’s part of a democratic system.

Disagreements between parties are normal, but at the end of the day, what matters is the decision of voters during the election, not just party reactions.

HacheNoire:
Ogun people should run for their dare life!

If asap can be presenting a candidate to you, then just know it’s NYSC.

Now Your Sufferings Continue

That’s a strong opinion, but in a democracy like ours, party decisions and endorsements are part of the political process. Ultimately, it will still be the voters in Ogun State who decide in 2027.

Dapo Abiodun and the APC structure may present candidates, but the final outcome depends on elections, not just party declarations. So it’s best to wait and see how things unfold.

AWONEYAN:
Una sha want to pieces this ADC by force.

Is this one Tinubu's fault too

one person most carry fault

Set awon America just kidding

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced that Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) is the consensus candidate of the APC for the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State.

The decision reportedly followed consultations with party stakeholders in the state.

However, final confirmation is expected from the national leadership of the APC as party primaries approach.

HacheNoire:
1.5 billion for coronation?

We need younger people in politics and this is what we get from them?

On these people have a soul and conscience?

How do you summon courage to do such?

1.5 billion can take hundreds out of poverty!

These concerns are understandable, especially given the current economic situation. However, at this stage it is still an allegation and not a confirmed fact from an audited report.

If spending like this is true, then accountability and transparency become very important, regardless of who is involved. That’s why official clarification and proper documentation matter before drawing final conclusions.

Basic123:
It happened to Oshiomole under buhari and the court interdered and stamped the suspension of a whole party National chairman by his ward chairman

APC eyes see shege under that clueless buhari

Yes, there have been past cases like that involving party leadership disputes, and courts often step in when there is conflict within party structures.

But each situation is different and depends on the party constitution and the specific facts involved. It’s not always a straightforward comparison across different administrations or cases.

In the end, it usually becomes a legal and internal party matter rather than just political commentary.

sailor2011:
The girl don run comot ...abi she for survive the brutal attack that was coming for her ?😁😁😁

Make mango tree no go fall for her head 😂😂😂 she discharge

Nigerian politics again 😂
One man’s “event” is another man’s “wasteful spending.” Let’s see how this develops.

Gunayo:
She don run enter cave. E no easy

I cover you with blood of Jesus

alanto:
Imagine APC faction suspending Tinubu in Lagos.

Where's that girl that called herself APC chairmanship sef?

Nigeria politics get as e be

Senator Sharafadeen Alli Accuses Seyi Makinde of ₦1.5bn Coronation Spending, Claims APC Internal Plot

A fresh political controversy has emerged in Oyo State following allegations made by Senator Sharafadeen Alli against Governor Seyi Makinde.

According to the senator, the governor allegedly spent about ₦1.5 billion on a coronation-related event, a claim that has sparked strong political reactions across the state.

Allegation of Wasteful Spending

Senator Alli described the alleged expenditure as excessive, questioning the justification for such a large amount at a time when citizens are facing economic challenges.

The claim has not yet been independently verified, and no official response has been issued by the Oyo State Government as of the time of this report.

APC Internal Politics Angle

The senator also suggested that there may be internal political dynamics within the All Progressives Congress (APC) influencing recent narratives and public statements.

However, no concrete evidence has been provided to support this claim.

What Happens Next?

As of now, the story remains a developing political issue, with Nigerians awaiting official clarification from the Oyo State Government and other stakeholders.

Nigerian politics no get chill at all 😂
Today suspension, tomorrow reconciliation…

If a factional chairman can suspend big names like this, then the real question is: who actually controls the party structure in Adamawa? 🤔