₦airaland Forum

To Mr bayo onanuga the spokesperson to President bola Ahmed tunubu(the worst Nigerian president ever)

@aonanuga1956 sir, VDM never posted this. The person who posted this video must be held responsible for doctoring the original video, not VDM. While I may not fully agree with VDM I believe this is a direct attack on him and if justice is real, we want to see him vindicated. pic.twitter.com/2QVQOdItez

— Ronano (@0xRonano) May 27, 2026

Happy Birthday to my brother and fellow patriot, H.E. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, @ChibuikeAmaechi.

Your courage, conviction, and years of service to Rivers State and Nigeria continue to inspire many across the nation. I wish you good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to our dear country. -AA

A former United States mayor, Mike Arnold, has rejected any potential political alliance between former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing such a ticket as a “national disaster.”

Arnold accused Kwankwaso of links to terror and extremist networks, extremism in Sharia enforcement policies, and alleged involvement in a series of corruption scandals.

Arnold made the controversial remarks in a lengthy statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday night, May 25, 2026, where he declared that he would oppose any Obi-Kwankwaso presidential ticket in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

“No, I am not ok with Obi-Kwankwaso — and you shouldn’t be, either,” Arnold wrote. “I like Peter Obi. I am not sold on him yet, but he has potential, and I have an open mind.

“What will close my mind instantly, without any wiggle room, is an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket.”

The former mayor argued that Nigeria did not need what he described as another recycling of old political forces under a new alliance.

“Nigeria does not need more of the same. It does not need different gasoline running through the same engine. It does not need a different conductor on the train — not when the train has to follow the same damnable tracks,” he stated.


Arnold further accused Kwankwaso of maintaining unwavering loyalty to the Sultanate establishment despite moving across multiple political parties over the years, describing the former Kano governor as “a sniveling bootlicker to Sokoto.”

“Why am I against Kwankwaso? Simple. He is the Sultan's man. Most inside of the inner circle. A sniveling bootlicker to Sokoto in a five-decade career arc that has changed parties five times — PDP to APC to NNPP to ADC to NDC — but never once strayed from fealty to the throne,” he alleged.


He also made controversial claims regarding the activities of the current Sultan of Sokoto during the post-9/11 war on terror era.

Arnold alleged that sensitive operations involving countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia were known to only a few top Nigerian officials, including Kwankwaso, who was the Defence Minister at the time.

“When the future Sultan was — as a senior officer of an OIC nation — operating in the shadows during the war on terror, his assignment from the Nigerian government was to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Every active jihadi theater of the post-9/11 era.

“One Nigerian Defense Attache who is a descendant of Muhammed. Five radical Islamic countries. Three years.

“There are only two other people in the Nigerian government who knew what he was up to. The President. And Kwankwaso, who was serving as Defense Minister at the time,” Arnold claimed.

Arnold further referenced the 2006 military aircraft crash that killed senior Nigerian Army officers and another crash involving the late Sultan Muhammadu Maccido and members of his family, suggesting there were unresolved questions surrounding both incidents.

“Incidentally, when the future Sultan returned from this post in 2006, not long after, the top ten reform-minded generals of the Nigerian Army died in a plane crash. The committee Obasanjo had assembled to clean up the military, gone in one flight,” Arnold said.

“A few weeks later, the sitting Sultan, his son and heir Senator Badamasi Maccido, and several grandchildren were killed in another plane crash. The Abuja airport radar was turned off when their plane went down.

“The Aviation Minister declared it a pilot error within 24 hours. The President ordered the arrests of aviation officials within 48 hours. Question closed,” he alleged.

Arnold also criticised the emergence of Sa’ad Abubakar as Sultan after the death of Maccido.

He alleged, “The future Sultan was turbaned four days later. Record time. Skipping past Maccido's surviving adult sons and past dozens of older brothers in the line, Sa'ad Abubakar was the youngest of 52 children of Sultan Siddiq Abubakar III.

“The Sultanate Council reached past all of them. And not long after that, all those terrorist groups from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia started showing up in Nigeria, where they have been slaughtering Christians and raping the land ever since.”

He claimed Kwankwaso’s tenure as Kano governor was equally troubling, citing the implementation of Sharia law and the creation of the Hisbah Board.

“As Governor of Kano State, Kwankwaso formally declared Sharia law on June 21, 2000, and established the Hisbah Board — the religious enforcement agency that has been arresting Kano residents for 'improper dress' and 'indecent mixing of the sexes' ever since,” Arnold stated.

“He lost his re-election in 2003 anyway, for being insufficiently Islamic for the Kano clerical establishment. Obasanjo handed him the Defence Ministry the same year.”

Arnold also referenced allegations of financial misconduct against Kwankwaso, including claims involving pension funds and pharmaceutical procurement contracts.

“When he returned as Kano Governor from 2011 to 2015, he left behind allegations that he misappropriated roughly N10 billion in pension contributions from Kano state workers,” he said.

“The EFCC interrogated him over it in 2021 and sealed his property. The investigation has stalled.

“A separate panel found that the EFCC chairman at the time had personally directed his operatives not to investigate Kwankwaso.

“Today, his nephew Musa Garba is under criminal investigation in Kano for a multi-billion-naira pharmaceutical procurement fraud allegedly tied to a contract awarded to his company without due process. Kwankwaso is publicly accused of interfering with the investigation to protect him.”

Arnold insisted that any presidential ticket involving Kwankwaso would be unacceptable to him, regardless of who emerged as the presidential candidate.

He said, “Sharia. Hisbah. Pension funds. Pharmaceutical contracts. The defence ministry during a genocide. A different party every cycle. And now the vice presidency.

“That is why I will actively oppose any ticket with Kwankwaso on it. No matter who is on top.

“Peter Obi, if you want my open mind, pick a running mate who is not a puppet of the Sultan.”

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has emerged the winner of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Presidential Primary Election in Gombe State.

The Returning Officer, Prof David Agbu, who made the announcement, said Atiku polled 139,334 votes to emerge as the winner of the exercise in the state, defeating former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Ameachi and others.

Giving the breakdown, Agbu said Amaechi scored 1,150 votes, while Muhammad Hayatu-Deen got 465 votes in the exercise, which he said was conducted peacefully across the state.

According to him, a total of 140,949 registered party members cast their votes during the primary election, out of the 160,982 registered members of the ADC in the state.

“From these results, Atiku scored the highest votes in the election and is hereby declared as the winner of the primary election in Gombe State, held today on May 25, 2026,” he said.

Recall that ADC in the state had earlier announced Atiku as their sole candidate ahead of the presidential primary election.

Peter Obi is a content creator. I wonder why some people take him serious but anyways, the hope he gives to his demographic is good. Hope is part of nation building. The only credit he deserves is for helping us sanitize social media space of former Biafra agitators online and getting them interested in Nigeria politics. For that he should be commended and given a national award. All the Biafra flags on social media accounts have been replaced with Obi’s picture. A man afraid or ordinary primaries with Atiku is the one that want to face Tinubu, the grab it, snatch it and run with it master. He is an unserious content creator.

Comrade
You have been a bright spot n light since you were with PO
Now you have to focus on your self
This election is already gone
Bat will def get his second term

Just go focus on ur self
We are going to miss you

The Abuja Division of the Federal High Court has invalidated guidelines by the Independent National Electoral Commission mandating political parties to submit a register and database of all members on May 10 to be eligible to contest for the 2027 general elections.

Justice M.G. Umar delivered the judgement on Thursday in a suit filed by the Youth Party, compelling INEC to follow the 120 days pre-election deadline prescribed by the Electoral Act 2026 for the submission of party registers.

“A Declaration is made that having regards to Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026 which requires political parties to submit the personal particulars of their candidates not later than 120 days to an election, the Defendant cannot lawfully abridge or limit that statutory period by prescribing a shorter time frame in its 2027 elections,” stated the judgement.

All registered parties, according to Mr Umar, have until September to submit an updated list of all party members, nullifying the initial May 10 deadline.

The judgement gives politicians, who have lost primary elections in their respective parties, the leeway to defect to another political party to continue their ambitions.

The presidential and national assembly elections have been scheduled for January 16, 2027 while governorship and state Houses of assembly polls are set to hold on February 6, 2027.

Dear Asari Dokubo,

You may recall that I called you privately about this issue three years ago. I physically went to Chicago State University on Monday, September 19, 2022. I verified directly from the horse's mouth and with pictorial and other documentary evidence that then-candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu was admitted, attended lectures, passed examinations, and graduated from CSU.

Even though that revelation was against my political interests, I released a video and a press statement which was published by the Nigerian and international media. This was followed by my publication of a document presented to me by Chicago State University verifying the bona fides of then-candidate Tinubu. I also granted interviews affirming that fact five months before the 2023 election.

I was the first person to verify that fact physically, and after I published my findings, the British Broadcasting Corporation ran a report vindicating those findings.

After Chicago, I proceeded to Peru to investigate this claim you just made against Peter Obi. I went to the women's prison in Lima, Peru, with a witness who is still alive and a video camera. I also visited authorities in that country, and confirmed that the story that Peter Obi is a drug baron who sponsored a female drug mule to Peru, and that the girl was arrested, tried, and implicated him during her trial is false. I also granted an interview to Arise TV right from Cusco, Peru. This was on Tuesday, November 22, 2022.

I thereafter called you on the phone and told you not to make the allegation anymore, because it was not true, and it is morally wrong to accuse a man of a crime he is innocent of. You may recall that you agreed with me.

As we approach the 2027 election, please can we all refrain from recycling these allegations, which I have already debunked.

I spent my money and time to establish the facts. Nobody gave me a dime. I did this because of patriotism and commitment to justice, even when it is against my political interests. So it is rather disconcerting to see these allegations being recycled.

Nigeria first. Always!

Thank you, and may God bless you.

Reno Omokri

Ambassador Designate to Mexico. Gospeller. Deep Thinker. #TableShaker. #1 Bestselling author of Facts Versus Fiction: The True Story of the Jonathan Years. Hodophile. Hollywood Magazine Humanitarian of the Year, 2019. Business Insider Influencer of the Year, 2022. 21st Most Talked About Person in Africa, 2024.

Peter Obi is a thief and criminal.

@PeterObi should be in custody not running for President.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Tanimu Turaki, SAN, has scheduled to screen former president Goodluck Jonathan tomorrow, Tuesday as the lone presidential candidate of party.

Former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, former governor of Plateau State, Jona Jang and a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Ikimi have been listed among a committee of 14 members to screen Jonathan described as a lone candidate by the party.

Other members of the committee were Chief Olabode George, Babangida Aliyu, Maryam ciroma, Zainab Maina, Josephine Anenin, Dr. Abdul Bulama, Dr. Esther Uduehi, Edo State PDP chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, Dr. Sunday Solarium and Chief Anicho Okoro, who would serve as administrative secretary of the committee.

The statement by the PDP only said a lone presidential aspirant, but on inquiries by THISDAY, it was gathered that Goodluck Jonathan was the lone presidential aspirant.

Last week, the national Publicity Secretary of the faction, Ini Ememobong, disclosed that former president Jonathan has successfully registered as a member of the party in the fresh digital registration exercise directed by INEC.

The PDP faction backed by the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also announced that it was set to screen 748 house of representatives aspirants, 198 senatorial aspirants, and 112 governorship aspirants.

The screening committee would screen 2122 states houses of assembly aspirants. The exercise will commence tomorrow, Tuesday in different states.

The party, in a statement posted on its official Facebook page on Sunday, said one presidential aspirant is also expected to be screened by the screening committee.

According to the statement, the screening exercise would take place nationwide on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

The statement said the Interim National Working Committee (iNWC) has also released the names of members to serve on the Screening Committees and Screening Appeal Panels.

It added that the publication of the screening details “is in accordance with the party’s guidelines and timetable for the conduct of the 2027 general elections.”

Meanwhile, a former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Eze Madumere, has expressed commitment to deliver victory, restore visibility and inclusivity to Owerri zone in the 2027 Senatorial election.

He said he was endowed with capacity, contact, and the reach to actualise his dream, on the platform of the PDP, expressing enthusiasm in respect of the overwhelming support of the populace and vowed to deliver dividends of democracy.

The human capital development expert stressed that he has paid his dues politically and built relationships across the state and beyond.

According to him, he intended to leverage same to develop the socio-economic development of Owerri zone through youth empowerment and job creation.

“I have the political reach, capability, capacity to win this election for our great party, the PDP. My name is not a strange name in Imo State. You cannot mention Prince Eze Madumere and ask, who is that?

“The people know me. They know my track records. They know what I stand for, which represents equity and justice. Be rest assured, I am fully prepared, fully ready, and fully committed to this election.

“By the grace of God, with the support of our party faithful, stake holders and the good people of Owerri Zone, victory is assured,” he said.

Chuks Okocha and Amby Uneze

Mahmud Sadis Buba, popularly known as Al-ajabin Zazzau, has withdrawn from the race to represent Sabon Gari Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives.

In a letter addressed to the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in
Kaduna State, published on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, Buba said it was not an easy decision to take.

The letter read in part “Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am withdrawing from the race for Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, House of Representatives, effective immediately.

“This was not an easy decision. But it was hastened by the reconciliation efforts initiated by stakeholders and leaders of our party. Consequently, after extensive consultations with my family, political associates, and stakeholders within our great party, I have decided that this decision is in the best interest of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I believe that uniting behind a single candidate is paramount to our victory in the general election and for the continued progress of our constituency and state.” The letter stated.

Buba, however, appreciated Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna and the leadership of the party for the opportunity given to him to participate in the nomination process.

He said the experience has enriched him and he remain grateful for the support from constituents and party supporters throughout the process.

Buba also reaffirmed loyalty and dedication to the APC, stressing that his withdrawal was not a sign of weakness, but a sacrifice for the greater good of the party.

He assured to remain faithful to the party and committed to working tirelessly for the victory of the party’s consensus candidate and the party at large at the polls.

Buba urged his supporters to remain calm, united, and to throw their full weight behind the party’s decision, advising that whoever emerges as the party’s candidate, should be given maximum support.

The aspirant was involved in age controversy during the period he aspired for the APC ticket.

Critics claimed he is 16 years old, while circulating the data page of his passport.

In a saner clime Peter Obi will be in jail over tax evasion.

He is a master in evading taxes and tax related fraud.

In a saner clime Peter Obi will be in jail over tax evasion.

He is a master in evading taxes and tax related fraud. pic.twitter.com/68XWBUx4vX

— High Chief Lawrence Igbins Okoro (@HighChiefOkoro) May 15, 2026

Sadisu Mahmud, the 15-year-old with a diminutive stature who declared interest in contesting the House of Representatives seat for the Sabon Gari Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, has been caught in a web of deceit after lying to Nigerians that he was 30 years old.

Mr Mahmud, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), gained significant attention in May 2026 when he obtained the APC expression of interest and nomination forms to contest the 2027 House of Representatives election.

His diminutive stature and youthful appearance sparked a massive online debate after he appeared before the APC screening committee in Abuja earlier in May.

In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Mr Mahmud claimed that he was 30 years old and had met the 25-year constitutional age requirement to contest the House of Representatives election.

Also, during the process of obtaining his APC membership card, he claimed to be 30-years-old and asserted that he was married.

Mr Mahmud also said he was born on August 2 1995, hails from Sabon Gari in Zaria, Kaduna State, and worked as a driver before fully venturing into politics.

Following his declaration to contest in the 2027 elections, Mr Mahmud received commendations from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani.

His campaign team also claimed that he is the chairman of the “Tinubu–Uba Sani Agenda ’27” support group and a grassroots mobiliser in Kaduna.

Mr Mahmud had been seen alongside prominent political figures, including President Bola Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Mr Akpabio, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, Bello El-Rufai and Seyi Tinubu.

Following his declaration to contest the 2027 general elections, his passport began circulating online, prompting an investigation by this newspaper.

The Peoples Gazette found that Mr Mahmud presented a forged age certificate declaration when submitting his form to the APC screening committee.

The Gazette also obtained details of Mr Mahmud’s National Identification Number (NIN) 7359 567 1139 on the National Identity Management Commission’s (NIMN’s) database, which confirms that he was born on August 27 2010.

The Gazette also obtained a copy of Mr Mahmud’s birth certificate, which shows that he was born in Sokoto State on August 27 2010, contrary to his false claim that he was born in Sabon Gari, Zaria, Kaduna State, on August 2 1995.

Also, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) database reveals that Mr Mahmud, with the middle name ‘Buba,’ was born on August 27 2010.

According to Section 65 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), an individual must attain the age of 25 years to be qualified to contest a House of Representatives seat.

Under the constitution, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may be in violation of Nigerian law if Mr Mahmud is allowed to contest the House of Representatives election at age 15.

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has said that what Nigeria needs today is a wealth creator and manager like himself.

Mr Obi told MD/CEO of News Central Kayode Akintemi on the programme ‘60 Minutes with Kay’ aired on Thursday that no presidential aspirant, including President Bola Tinubu, can match his experience as a wealth creator.

He stated this in reaction to Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor of Kano State, who said at Chatham House in London in 2023 that he had a PhD and was more qualified to be president than be Obi’s running mate. Kwankwaso was the presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) at the time.

Both men have now joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), with Kwankwaso likely to become Obi’s running mate in 2027 after the party zoned the presidential ticket to the southern region where Obi comes from.

“Qualification is a perspective and it depends on where you’re coming from. He (Kwankwaso) said he was more qualified because he has a PhD which is not bad. I don’t have a PhD,” Obi said.

“He has some experience, he’s exposed. He was a minister. There’s no doubt about that. I don’t think his claim was wrong but for what Nigeria needs today, Nigeria needs a wealth creator, wealth manager.

“I have built reputable businesses from scratch locally and internationally. Nobody today in this context, including the president, can claim to have passed through my experience.”

Obi said in reaction to being tagged a “common trader” that trading and making money from it is one of the most difficult things to do else everyone would be a trader.

“What Nigeria needs today is somebody that creates wealth, not somebody who shares wealth, somebody who can manage resources more efficiently and save for the future,” he said.

Remi tinubu is 65 years, Margaret obi 51 years, The beauty of who u vote for between the two of them will determine how Nigeria will look like

so vote wisely!!!

Bala Kumo, Chief of Staff to the factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Nafiu Bala Gombe, on Tuesday formally purchased his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to contest the Gombe Central Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kumo obtained the forms at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja amid cheers from supporters and loyalists of the embattled ADC factional chairman who accompanied him to the event.

His entry into the race sets the stage for a political showdown in Gombe State, where he is seeking to unseat incumbent Senator Mohammed Goje of the ruling All Progressives Congress in the 10th National Assembly.

Goje, a former governor of Gombe State and one of the state’s most influential political figures, has maintained a strong hold on the senatorial district over the years, making the contest one expected to attract significant political attention as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.

Addressing journalists shortly after obtaining the forms, Kumo said his decision to join the race was driven by a desire to provide quality representation and people-oriented leadership for constituents in Gombe Central.

He said, “I believe that political office is a public trust, not a personal privilege. Our democracy works best when citizens with a genuine commitment to service step forward, offer themselves for scrutiny and seek the mandate of the people.

“I took this step to contribute my skills and experience to solving the problems facing our community and to give constituents a clear choice rooted in accountability, transparency and participation.

“I believe I am the right person for this role because my approach is grounded in democratic principles. First, I am committed to listening more than speaking. Secondly, I have a track record of integrity and follow-through in my professional and community engagements, which I intend to bring to public office.”

The development comes amid increasing political activities across major parties and opposition platforms as aspirants intensify consultations and strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.

Politicians from various political parties have defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Niger State.

The mass defection took place over the weekend in Wushishi Local Government Area, where supporters and political stakeholders gathered in support of the governorship ambition of Dr. Mohammed Kpautagi.

The defectors were drawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), signaling what observers describe as an early shift in the state’s political landscape.

Among the notable figures who joined the ADC was Mallam Abdul Ishaku, a former APC candidate for the House of Assembly in the 2023 elections.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Ishaku said the decision to move to the ADC was driven by confidence in the leadership style and political vision of Dr. Kpautagi, as well as the growing acceptance of the party across Niger State.

According to him, the development reflects increasing political movements ahead of the 2027 elections and demonstrates the readiness of many politicians to align with emerging platforms they believe can deliver effective leadership.

He expressed optimism that the ADC would continue to expand its influence and emerge as a formidable force in the state.

He stated that the ADC remained open to Nigerians committed to democratic participation and political development, adding that the party was determined to strengthen its grassroots presence ahead of future elections.

Abuja: Former President Goodluck Jonthan will attempt to return to the presidency using the Peoples Democratic Party as the platform to actualize his renewed presidential ambition, Vanguard gathered authoritatively on Sunday.

A top official in the Jonathan’s team confirmed to Vanguard on Sunday that the decision to use the PDP followed extensive deliberation over where his chances were brighter in returning to power in order to provide quality leadership to the country amid growing hardship and poverty.

The confirmation of PDP as the channel through which Jonathn hopes to use to and return to power, immediately opened a floodgate of struggle by entities believed to be pushing him to contest, to jostle for the purchase of his nomination form, which the factionalised party has pegged at N100 million.

The top official, who spoke to Vanguard in confidence, said that the groups competing to purchase the nomination form for Jonathan were aware that the deadline for the submission of the form ends on Tuesday this week and that they were determined to get the form for him.

The source said that a notable group, which calls itself, the Goodluckan Movement, made of Nigerians in the diaspora is claiming the right to obtain the form for him, arguing that the movement is more representative of Nigerians across the world than the northern groups jostling for it.

The official listed some of the groups in the front line to obtain the forms for the former president include the Coalition for Jonathan, which has twice mobilized thousands of youths to rally in his office and urged him to pick a nomination form and run, the Goodies Movement, an online support group for Goodluck Jonathan and the The New Nigeria, TNN – a mass based movement with millions of members mostly in northern Nigeria.

Others are, the Almajiri Network, Arewa for Good Governance, the Northern Youth Alliance for Good Governance, Northern Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, the Arewa for Better Government and the North Youth Progressive Movement.

The official claimed that each of the Jonathan support groups has pledged to raise the 100m and purchase the form for him.

Vanguard learned that although the former president merely told the groups the crowd that beckoned on him to run in 2027 that he would consult widely before taking a final decision on the matter, Jonthan had since made up his mind to run, hoping to convince Nigerians to re-elect him to revamp the economy and reduce the level of hardship in the land.

The leader of the Jonathan support group, Dr. Tom Ohikere, had urged him to “immediately pick a presidential nomination form of any party of your choice to contest the elections”.

Following the calls by groups on Jonathan to run, there had been concerns as to which party platform he would use to pursue his ambition, a development which immediately prompted the Turaki-led PDP to issue a statement confirming he had fulfilled the necessary conditions to fly the party’s flag.

The PDP spokesman, Barrister Ini Ememobong, confirmed that Dr. Jonathan had earlier in the year fulfilled his online registration with the PDP and dispelled the swirling rumours of his political party membership as no denial has come from his media team or any of his close associates.

It will be recalled that in 2022, a Northern almajiri group obtained a 100m APC form for President Goodluck Jonathan, which made the headlines, but which he later disowned and the form was never submitted.

But as an indication of his seriousness to run in 2027, Jonathan has approached a Federal High court in Abuja to challenge a lawyer who asked the court to bar him from running again, claiming that he had since served two terms.

The case will determine whether Jonathan has any chance of challenging the incumbent and returning to Aso Rock.

Groups Push Jonathan To Join 2027 Presidential Race, May Pick Up PDP Presidential Form Monday

Some groups may pick up the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential nomination form for former President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Sources indicated that former President Goodluck Jonathan might pick up the PDP presidential nomination form on Monday.

“Goodluck Jonathan will pick up PDP nomination form on Monday,” one of the sources said.

However, a close associate dismissed the speculation, stressing that although several groups are pushing for his candidacy, it remains uncertain whether he will make any immediate move.

“What’s happening is that various groups are pushing for him, but it’s unclear whether anything will happen tomorrow or not,” a source in Jonathan’s camp said.

The former President had asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a suit seeking to stop him from contesting the 2027 presidential election amid growing speculation over his possible return to active politics.

Jonathan, through his lawyer, Chris Uche (SAN), challenged the competence of the suit filed by Abuja-based lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, shortly after the matter came up before Justice Peter Lifu on Friday.

The former president’s legal team informed the court that it had already filed a conditional appearance, a notice of preliminary objection, counter affidavit and written address on May 5, 2026, urging the court to throw out the case.

According to Uche, Jonathan’s camp only became aware of the suit through media reports, forcing them to urgently respond because of the sensitive nature of the matter bordering on the ex-president’s eligibility to contest the next presidential election.

The senior advocate described the suit as unnecessary and legally defective, arguing that the issue had already been decided by the courts in previous cases up to the Court of Appeal.

Earlier, counsel to the plaintiff, Ndubuisi Ukpai, told the court that the case was originally scheduled for mention but that he had just been served with Jonathan’s processes in court and would require time to respond.

Following submissions by both parties, Justice Lifu adjourned the matter until May 11 for hearing of Jonathan’s objection as well as the substantive suit.

The judge also ordered that hearing notices be served on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), who are listed as the second and third defendants in the matter but were absent from court proceedings.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, Jideobi is asking the court to issue a perpetual injunction restraining Jonathan from presenting himself to any political party for the purpose of contesting the 2027 presidential election.

The lawyer also prayed the court to stop INEC from accepting or publishing Jonathan’s name as a duly nominated presidential candidate.

The legal battle is coming amid increasing political speculation surrounding Jonathan’s possible return to presidential politics.

SaharaReporters had earlier reported that the former president was likely to formally join the 2027 presidential race after hinting at a possible comeback while addressing a group of young Nigerians who urged him to contest.

“He has already hinted at joining the race and it may happen as early as tomorrow,” a source familiar with the development told SaharaReporters on Thursday that Jonathan might announce his decision to join the race on Friday.

Jonathan recently made the remarks while addressing young Nigerians who appealed to him to run for president in 2027.

Responding to the calls, the former president described the presidential race as a serious undertaking and not something to be approached lightly.

“Presidential race is not a computer game. But I've heard you, and I'll consult widely. But the most important thing is in Nigeria, that the young people will have hope,” Jonathan said.

The former president also used the opportunity to urge Nigerian youths to remain patriotic and committed to the unity and progress of the country, warning that unpatriotic citizens could destroy a nation.

“I urge you to continue to be patriotic to the country. It's only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money to anywhere to enjoy their life,” he said.

“So you must be patriotic. And things are very, very clear. The key thing we need in this country is peace.”

The former president further urged Nigerian youths to actively participate in elections and obtain their voter cards, lamenting the low level of voter turnout in Nigeria compared to other African countries where he had monitored elections.

“And as youths, we will continue to advocate for that. It's very dear to us, peaceful elections. And indeed you, as young people, must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” Jonathan said.

“I've observed elections in about 14 or more African countries. Some have been there two times. And even in Southeast Asia, Nigeria has the lowest turnout of elections in every election cycle. We have the highest voter apathy.”

“And it shows us that people are not even interested in the elections. We have the worst, the least. I've never been to a country that has the low numbers we have, in terms of percentage of voters,” he added.

Dr. Azeez Adeduntan, a former Commissioner of Health and governorship aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Barely 24 hours after he resigned from the broom party, the cardiovascular surgeon picked the governorship expression of interest and nomination form under the ADC.

Speaking on the decision, Adeduntan said he has begun his road to the Agodi Government House by obtaining the nomination form.

He said his bold political step, coming barely 24 hours after his resignation as a card-carrying member of the APC, has unsettled the party’s structure and stirred intense reactions across its ranks.

He added that, since his exit, the political atmosphere within the APC has been marked by visible unease, as stakeholders grapple with the weight of his departure.

“With a career carved in excellence and service—from the lecture halls of the University of Ife to the prestigious institutions of Columbia and Harvard, the name Dr. Adeduntan embodies a rare blend of intellect, experience, and compassion.

“My transition from saving lives in the operating theatre to shaping policies in public office reflects a lifelong commitment to humanity and progress. A proud son of Ibadan, my legacy in Oyo State remains indelible.

“As Commissioner for Health, I championed transformative initiatives, attracted multi-million-dollar medical support from international partners, and laid enduring foundations for a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system. My leadership was not only seen but deeply felt—earning me accolades as one of the most outstanding commissioners of my time.

“Now, under the banner of the ADC, my renewed quest signals more than political ambition—it represents a clarion call for purposeful leadership, a reawakening of hope, and a bold vision for a greater Oyo State.

“As the journey to Agodi gathers pace, the message is clear: experience is ready, capacity is proven, and the moment has come. Oyo is watching. The road has opened. And Adeduntan has begun the march.”

Fresh political realignments gathered momentum yesterday as federal lawmakers and prominent politicians dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

The senator representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, Abdul Ahmed Ningi, resigned from the PDP after more than two decades in the opposition party.

Ningi announced his resignation in a letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ningi Ward in Ningi Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The lawmaker said his decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, supporters and stakeholders, describing it as one of the toughest decisions of his political career.

He noted that since joining the PDP in 1998, the party had provided him with the opportunity to serve the country in different capacities, including two terms in the House of Representatives and two terms in the Senate.

Indications suggest Ningi is aligning with the ADC coalition.

Senator Ibrahim Khalid Mustapha (Kaduna North) dumped the PDP for the ADC, citing protracted leadership crises and litigations.

Mohammed Bello el-Rufai, son of former Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai and member representing Kaduna North in the House of Representatives.

He resigned from the APC following consultations with his “mentors.”

Joining el-Rufai in the House exodus were Umar Ajilo (Kudan/Makarfi) and Suleiman Richifa (Soba), who left the PDP for the ADC; Chinedu Obika (AMAC/Bwari) and Esosa Iyawe (Oredo), who defected to the NDC.

Obika, who briefly joined the APC from the Labour Party in March, cited a lack of inclusiveness in FCT APC congresses. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas allowed the defection despite procedural questions, noting the “mood of the nation.”

Esosa Iyawe resigned from the APC just two days after purchasing nomination forms.

He cited “irreconcilable differences” with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who is reportedly backing Dr. Paddy Iyamu for the ticket.

Iyawe, originally elected on the Labour Party platform, has now moved to the NDC.

In Bauchi, former APC National Youth Leader Sadiq Abubakar resigned, citing the imposition of candidates.

In Enugu, NDC senatorial aspirant Chief Ogochukwu Onyema (OAU) stated that opposition figures are flocking to the NDC following directives from former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Onyema said: “We are for NDC, and we are for Peter Obi. We believe the salvation of Nigeria will come through this movement.”