₦airaland Forum

Deregistration Suit: Court Rejects Gov. Adeleke’s Joinder Bid

By Lizzy Chirkpi

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Wednesday 20th May 2026 rejected applications by some politicians and parties seeking to be joined in the suit seeking the deregistration of several political parties, including the Accord Party, African Democratic Congress (ADC) and others, over alleged constitutional breaches.

Justice Peter Lifu dismissed the joinder applications filed by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Oluwafemi Abayomi Adebambi ,the Accord Party Guber Candidate for Ekiti State and Hon. Sani Yakubu Noma of the ADC, holding that their political parties were already defendants in the suit, thus making the inclusion of individual members unnecessary.

The judge also refused applications seeking a stay of proceedings, ruling that the matter has proceeded to an advanced stage , and halting the case at this stage would create hardship to other litigants in the suit, particularly as political parties were expected to submit names of candidates ahead of forthcoming elections.

“It is my considered view not to grant the stay except otherwise decided by the upper court,” Justice Lifu said, adding that the issues raised by the applicants lacked merit and were accordingly dismissed.

The court subsequently reserved judgment in the substantive suit for June 5th 2026.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, was instituted by the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and several political parties, including the ADC, Action Alliance, Action Peoples Party (APP), Accord Party and Zenith Labour Party.

During proceedings, counsel to the plaintiff, Yakubu Abdullahi Ruba, SAN, argued that the affected political parties failed to meet constitutional requirements relating to electoral spread and performance.

Ruba relied on Supreme Court authorities, contending that political parties were required to secure at least 25 per cent of votes in prescribed elections to remain relevant under the law. He urged the court to order the deregistration of the parties, insisting that none of the defendants had effectively countered the argument.

Representing the Attorney-General of the Federation, A. Abdulrahman told the court that the AGF possessed constitutional powers to support actions aimed at ensuring compliance with the Constitution. He urged the court to determine whether the parties listed as third to seventh defendants had breached constitutional provisions.

Counsel representing the affected political parties, however, urged the court to dismiss the suit with substantial costs.

The court also heard arguments from counsel to the APP, Peter Abang, who sought dismissal of the suit on the grounds that issues raised had already been argued before the Court of Appeal.

Justice Lifu, in a brief ruling, stated that the court would consider the appellate court’s decision alongside all issues canvassed by parties before delivering judgment.

At the previous sitting, defence counsel led by Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, for the Accord Party, and Shuaib Enejo Aruwa, SAN, for the ADC, had urged the court to suspend proceedings pending the determination of interlocutory appeals before the Court of Appeal.

They argued that continuing with the hearing while appeals were pending could prejudice matters already before the appellate court.

However, the plaintiff opposed the request, arguing that neither the Court of Appeal nor the Supreme Court had restrained the Federal High Court from proceeding with the matter.

Counsel to INEC, Haliru Mohammed, informed the court that the commission had already filed a counter-affidavit to the substantive suit.

All parties adopted their briefs/written addresses signalling the end of hearing of the Suit.

Suit was adjourned to Friday 5th June for Judgment.

Reacting after the hearing, Hon Raphael Nnanna Igbokwe Chairman Board of Trustees maintained the Suit was not targeted at any political party but aimed at expounding our electoral jurisprudence and promoting credible political system.


Credit: Premium times 🗞️

2027: If ADC Refuses To Zone Its Presidential Ticket To The Southeast, I’ll Campaign For APC-Okonkwo

During the interview, Okonkwo stated, “If ADC refuses to zone its presidential ticket to the Southeast, I will campaign for APC.” He made the remark while discussing what he described as the need for fairness and political balance in the allocation of presidential tickets among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.………

Okonkwo explained that his position is driven by what he considers long-standing political imbalance affecting the Southeast in Nigeria’s democratic history. According to him, the region has not had a fair opportunity to produce a president in the current democratic dispensation, and political parties must take deliberate steps to address that concern.

He further argued that zoning remains a critical instrument for maintaining unity in a diverse country like Nigeria. The ADC chieftain maintained that ignoring such arrangements could lead to political dissatisfaction and weaken trust in the democratic process, especially among underrepresented regions.

Okonkwo also emphasized that political parties must be consistent in their principles, stating that fairness should not be applied selectively depending on which region holds power at any given time. He added that zoning decisions should reflect justice, equity, and national inclusion rather than convenience or political advantage.

He concluded by warning that political alignment decisions in 2027 will be influenced by how parties handle issues of regional representation, stressing that he would support any platform—regardless of affiliation—that ensures the Southeast is given a fair opportunity in Nigeria’s highest political office.

BREAKING: Trump says U.S. forces just helped take out "the most active terrorist in the world."

In a late-night Truth Social post, the president announced that American forces and Nigeria’s military carried out a complex mission that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, whom Trump described as ISIS’s second-in-command globally.

“[He] thought he could hide in Africa,” Trump said, "but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing."

EXTRA: ‘Don’t bully us’ — NDC support group asks Obidients to be cordial ahead of Obi’s planned defection

A support group of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has implored Obidients, supporters of Peter Obi, 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to be “cordial and friendly” amid his planned defection.

In an X post on Sunday, the group appealed for mutual respect, saying it had been on the political platform before the anticipated influx of new supporters.

2027: Egbeda/Ona-Ara Stakeholders Demand Rotation of Reps Ticket, Cite Imbalance

Stakeholders in Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency have begun a series of visits to key leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling for fairness and rotation in the allocation of the party’s House of Representatives ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.

During the visits, the group displayed placards highlighting what they described as a long-standing imbalance in representation between the two local governments. According to them, by 2027, Egbeda Local Government would have held the seat for about 20 years, while Ona-Ara would have had only eight years—an imbalance they described as unjust.

The stakeholders took their agitation to prominent party leaders, including Sarafa Alli; Yunus Akintunde; and former Oyo Central senators, Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun and Teslim Kolawole Folarin, at their respective residences.

Speaking on behalf of the group, one of its leaders, Waydem, described the situation as unfair to the people of Ona-Ara Local Government and warned against any attempt to sideline the area in the forthcoming selection process.

“In Ona-Ara, we have more than five aspirants who have purchased their nomination forms. They are all qualified. The party should, in the spirit of fairness, concede the ticket to Ona-Ara and allow the local government to choose from among its aspirants,” he said.

He added that there was a gentleman’s agreement between both local governments, expressing concern over moves by the incumbent to seek re-election.

“While we do not oppose his right to contest, any attempt to impose a candidate against the will of the people of Ona-Ara will not be accepted,” he said.

Responding, Senator Sarafa Alli received the protest letter and assured the group that their concerns would be presented at the appropriate stakeholders’ meeting. He also appealed for calm, expressing optimism that the issue would be resolved amicably.

Similarly, Senator Yunus Akintunde assured the stakeholders that their message would be conveyed to the relevant party authorities for consideration.

IBADAN APC LEADERS ENDORSE ADELABU FOR OYO GUBER

Political leaders in Ibadan have thrown their weight behind former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, as their preferred candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Oyo State.

The endorsement took place during a stakeholders’ meeting held at Ibadan Southeast LG and was well attended by prominent figures including Alhaji Mufutau Adisa Gbayawu, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Alhaji Wale Sanusi, coordinators aligned with Senator Hosea Agboola, and Dr. Fola Akinosun, among others.

Speaking at the gathering, Alhaji Mufutau Adisa Gbayawu, a topmost political leader from Ibadan Southeast local government, dismissed reports linking him to a purported endorsement of Sarafadeen Alli, where he described the claim as false and misleading.

“I don’t know why my name was mentioned on radio as part of their jankara endorsement at Samonda. I was not part of their acting,” Gbayawu said. “Ibadan people will endorse an Ibadan candidate, and I want to clearly state that Bayo Adelabu is our candidate.”

Gbayawu, who affirmed his standing as a key Ibadan leader, stressed that the decision reflected the collective will of stakeholders across the metropolis.

Also speaking, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi rejected claims of any endorsement by the Unity Forum, insisting that due process was not followed.

“When we were active in the Unity Forum, I served as the state chairman. There cannot be any Unity Forum endorsement without my involvement,” he said. “I therefore reject any purported endorsement being circulated.”

Alimi further disclosed that he had earlier cautioned against any form of imposition, revealing that he personally reached out to Ibikunle Amosun.

“I called Alhaji Ibikunle and warned against any undemocratic endorsement from anybody, but my advice was disregarded,” he added.

Addressing the leaders, Adelabu declared himself the most prepared aspirant for the Oyo State Government House, noting that the time had come to actualise his long-standing ambition.

“The time is now. I have come to show you my expression of interest and nomination forms and to seek your support and permission before submission,” he said.

Adelabu also reaffirmed his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing himself as a long-time protégé.

“I am a core Asiwaju boy. He has been my supporting pillar over the years, even after I became Minister. He remains my leader,” Adelabu stated, adding that the President encouraged him to pursue his governorship ambition.

According to him, Tinubu advised that while consensus remains an option, all aspirants should be allowed to test their popularity at the polls if consensus fails.

Adelabu further dismissed insinuations of any imposed candidacy, noting that the President had not endorsed any individual.

“President Tinubu is a democrat. He has not called anyone for endorsement. If such is to be done, all stakeholders must be duly represented,” he said.
The former minister also criticised the rival endorsement meeting, describing it as lacking legitimacy.

“None of the party executives were present at that ‘jankara’ endorsement. The wife of our late leader, Abiola Ajimobi, was not there. Neither was Teslim Folarin, nor any of the APC aspirants in agreement with it,” Adelabu noted.

He urged party members to remain united, warning against internal divisions. “This is the time for progressives to unite against forces trying to destabilise the APC. We must not fall into their trap,” he cautioned.

The endorsement is seen as a significant boost to Adelabu’s governorship ambition ahead of the APC primaries in Oyo State.

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has unveiled his 7-point agenda tagged “Prosper.”

Unveiling the manifesto before the media and different groups across the state in Osogbo, yesterday, Oyebamiji assured that the prosperity plan will be pursued “with seriousness and total commitment.”

Oyebamiji promised not to “dull” the reading of the budget before the State House of Assembly, saying the budget would be read openly for the people and made available.

Poverty alleviation, workers’ welfare and job creation: He pledged targeted social intervention programmes to reduce poverty and support vulnerable citizens.

Responsive, accountable and transparent governance: He promised people-centred leadership, transparency, accountability, economic growth and empowerment.

The agenda includes opportunities for SMEs, youth, and women, with plans to strengthen the Osun State Investment Promotion Agency to drive investment.

Security, safety and social protection: Oyebamiji said he will strengthen collaboration with security agencies and support community-based security initiatives.

Productive agriculture and rural development: He promised Agro-Industrial clusters and modern farm settlements, with farmers supported through access to technology, training, and finance.

Education, skills development and healthcare: He promised to modernise education infrastructure, strengthen technical and vocational training, and recruit, train, and support teachers.

He promised “Renewed infrastructure, culture and tourism, improved road networks, power supply, and water systems, with targeted infrastructure development for each local government.”

Oyebamiji described the manifesto as a commitment to lead with integrity, govern with purpose, and deliver meaningful development across all sectors of Osun state.


https://thesun.ng/oyebamiji-unveils-prosper-7-point-agenda-for-osun/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARixCxjbGNrBGLDw2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHrxA-qT9PFAsVRfKGttyGv_Fx0KHgcMjcgmv3Swpr9i3LSwzjDFNqWoh5mtM_aem_39faOLsEReM9xjW8FEqAyQ

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Approved ₦114 Billion for Osogbo-Iwo-Ibadan Road

The Federal Executive Council under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved at least nine major road projects across Nigeria in a single sitting yesterday, 30th of April 2026.

A move widely seen as one of the most significant infrastructure decisions in recent times and record-breaking number of contracts in a single sitting.

Among these approvals, one project stands out for us in Iwoland:

✅ ₦114 Billion approved for the reconstruction of the Osogbo–Iwo–Ibadan Road (90.9km)

For years, this critical road has remained a recurring promise across administrations from Rauf Aregbesola to Gboyega Oyetola, and even under the current leadership of Ademola Adeleke. Despite several budgetary mentions over the years, the road has remained in poor condition.

Yesterday's approval by the Federal Government brings renewed hope that this long-abandoned economic lifeline will finally receive the attention it deserves.

Why this road matters to Iwoland 👇:

The economic opportunities lost over the years due to the poor condition of the Ibadan–Iwo–Osogbo Expressway are immeasurable.

✔️ A good road network will allow workers in Osogbo and Ibadan to comfortably reside in Iwo and commute daily without stress.

✔️ Businesse including farmers, traders, hotels, filling stations, and transport operators will experience increased activity and growth.

✔️ Improved connectivity will boost commerce and significantly enhance revenue generation for Osun State.

Let’s not forget also that Iwo is strategically positioned between two state capitals: Ibadan (Oyo State) and Osogbo (Osun State). This positions Iwo as a natural economic hub once the road is fully functional.

May this project not just be approved, but completed.

May God bless Iwoland, Osun State and Nigeria 🇳🇬

Chief priest association with Seyi Tinubu has huge political effects in his life. I can see clearly.

Chiefpriest has bought his APC form for House of Rep. This is the nomination forms to run for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State.

chicfarmer:
Your question has already been answered. Any Adolphus Nwabara led BOT caretaker community set up now will be the authentic leadership of the party.

ok

HOW ADELEKE FAMILY EMBEZZLED OSUN TAX PAYERS MONEY THROUGH APPOINTMENTS

Ademola Adeleke - Governor

Ademola Adeleke — Commissioner for works

Dr. Deji Adeleke - Chairman Advisory Council

Yeye Dupe Adeleke - Co-Chairman Advisory Council

Títí Adeleke - First Lady 1(Admin)

Ngozi Adeleke - First Lady 2 (Academic)

Adenike Folasade Adeleke —Commissioner for Federal Affairs

Tunji Adeleke —Chairman local government commission

David Adeleke—Chairman Osun Sport Trust fund

Prof. Maruf Adeleke— Commissioner for Budget and Planning

Gbolahan Adeleke —- S A on Government House Affairs

On behalf of Osun People, We say Ó tó gé
O to ge fun ijoba Adeleke ni ipinle Osun. Enough of looting our treasury.

Put link on it fergie001

Cyberterror:
That one is charge and bail

fergie001 is a very active political analyst. He will come back and analyse the way forward of PDP.

LagosOrigin:
It is over for Nyesom Wike strangulation of PDP to favour APC.

Wike can now cross to APC because he will surely be sacked from the PDP.

Nlfpmod

Omo grok is right here. Anyanwu isn't the national secretary of PDP.

Fergie001 enlighten your people

Cyberterror:
That's not true. BOT cannot submit list of candidates to INEC. Only Chairman and Secretary can.

so who will submit lists of candidates here

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU NOMINATES JOSEPH OLASUNKANMI TEGBE AS MINISTER OF POWER

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Mr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Minister of Power, subject to confirmation by the Senate.

The nomination has been transmitted to the Senate for screening and confirmation in accordance with the Constitution.

The nomination follows the resignation of the former Minister, Adebayo Adelabu, who stepped down from office to pursue elective office.

Mr Tegbe, from Oyo State, is a fiscal and economic reform expert with over 35 years of experience spanning the public and private sectors.

He is a former Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa, where he led wide-ranging initiatives in fiscal policy reform, institutional transformation, and governance. He has also advised key government institutions and private sector organisations on strategic reforms, regulatory frameworks, and investment structuring.

He is at present the Director General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), where he is responsible for strengthening bilateral development cooperation between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China.

The NCSP also coordinates engagements with public sector stakeholders to advance economic and social development in line with FOCAC objectives.

Mr Tegbe’s experience includes significant engagements within the power sector, particularly in regulatory and institutional reform involving agencies such as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET).

His nomination is expected to strengthen further ongoing efforts to reform the power sector, enhance grid stability, and attract sustainable investment in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President expects the Minister-Designate, upon confirmation, to bring his extensive expertise to bear to advance critical reforms and deliver improved outcomes for Nigerians in the power sector.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
April 30, 2026

ppogba:
Very wicked and selfish venture.

yes sooo

Seyi Makinde just waste money on that kangaroo convention niii

He has been settled with a Commissioner seat under Hamzat government.

Jandor Quits Lagos Governorship Race

The race for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election has taken a dramatic turn following the withdrawal of Abdul-Azeez Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, from the contest.

Jandor, who had earlier obtained the All Progressives Congress governorship expression of interest and nomination forms, reportedly stepped down from the race barely 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu endorsed the decision of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council to adopt Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat as the party’s consensus candidate.

His withdrawal is already generating political reactions across Lagos political circles, with many observers describing the move as a major development capable of reshaping the dynamics of the APC governorship contest ahead of 2027.

With Adediran now out of the race, attention has shifted strongly to Deputy Governor Hamzat and Samuel Ajose, who are now seen as leading figures in the emerging political battle within the ruling party.

Political analysts believe Jandor’s decision may further strengthen the position of Hamzat, especially following the endorsement by President Tinubu and influential leaders within the APC structure in Lagos State.

The latest development also leaves room for renewed speculations around former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, whose loyalists and supporters have continued to campaign for his return to office to complete projects and policies initiated during his administration.

Although Ambode is yet to officially declare his intention, his name has continued to feature prominently in discussions surrounding the 2027 governorship contest.

Sources within the APC disclosed that consultations among party stakeholders are still ongoing as efforts continue to build unity ahead of the election season.

Meanwhile, supporters of Jandor have expressed mixed reactions over his withdrawal, with some describing it as a strategic political decision while others say it may alter existing alignments within the Lagos political landscape.

More details are expected to emerge in the coming days as the governorship permutations continue to unfold.

President Bola Tinubu has described himself as a “very stubborn politician” whom his enemies tried to get rid off through insecurity.

Read more:
https://dailytrust.com/tinubu-they-want-to-get-rid-of-me-but-im-a-stubborn-politician/

Ambode has been short-changed again

Newbie2024:
The endorsement would have been inconsequential if there is a strong party to battle APC

exactly. The opposition party has been useless too.

The Oyo governorship race is between teslim folarin and bayo Adelabu here.

Oyo Guber: Former Power Minister, Bayo Adelabu, Picks APC Nomination Form. It was picked on his behalf by Mr Ajiboye Akande.

Lagos Assembly Removes Clerk Onafeko, Appoints Female Replacement

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday removed Mr. Olalekan Onafeko as Clerk of the House with immediate effect, bringing an end to his tenure after more than two years in office.

The decision was reached during plenary after deliberations by lawmakers and was subsequently adopted through a voice vote, indicating overwhelming support among members of the Assembly.

Speaker of the House, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the session, explained that the action was in line with the Assembly’s established rules guiding tenure in office.

According to Obasa, Onafeko’s tenure had naturally elapsed, stressing that the decision should not be interpreted as a disciplinary action but a routine administrative process.

Onafeko had served as Clerk of the House since January 14, 2022, where he supervised legislative administration and coordinated activities of the Assembly.

The Speaker commended the outgoing Clerk for his service, noting that his period in office witnessed significant legislative engagements and institutional growth within the Assembly.

Following the development, Obasa announced the appointment of Adenike Osinowo as the new Clerk of the House with immediate effect.

He expressed confidence in her ability to deliver effectively, stating that her experience and administrative competence would further strengthen legislative operations and improve efficiency within the Assembly.

In another development, the House also confirmed Latifat Ogbara as Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission.

Lawmakers described her appointment as deserving, citing her track record, competence and years of public service experience.

The Assembly equally confirmed Remi Bello as a member of the Commission and charged him with contributing meaningfully to ongoing institutional reforms.

Members of the House urged the newly appointed officials to uphold professionalism, transparency and dedication in the discharge of their duties.

OneCandleAway:
Dapo is banking on his closeness to Tinubu to win.

😂 Dapo will never win. It's direct primary straight. Ogd don do his assignments well to get the ticket back.

This is what the noise is about. If he looses the primary, he will suddenly start criticizing APC.