₦airaland Forum

Tinubu Set to Approve Anioma State as Nigeria’s Newest State
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/tinubu-set-to-approve-anioma-state-as-nigerias-newest-state/
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is poised to approve the creation of Anioma State, a proposed state in the South-East geopolitical zone, as the country’s newest state. According to sources, Anioma State is likely to be the only new state created, addressing long-standing feelings of marginalization among South-Easterners.

The proposed state, which would have Asaba as its capital, is expected to be carved out of Delta State and become the sixth state in the South-East region, bringing the total number of states in the region to six. Senator Ned Nwoko, a vocal supporter of the Anioma State creation, has expressed confidence that the agitation would soon yield results, citing support from over 90 senators

‘My Father Cannot Beat Tinubu’: Atiku’s Son Defects to APC, Declares President Unstoppable for 2027
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/my-father-cannot-beat-tinubu-atikus-son-defects-to-apc-declares-president-unstoppable-for-2027/
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YOLA — In a move that has fundamentally shaken the political foundation of the North-East, Abba Atiku Abubakar, the son of former Vice President and serial presidential contender Atiku Abubakar, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) with a blunt verdict: his father cannot defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

Speaking at a high-profile reception in Yola, Adamawa State, on Monday, January 26, 2026, Abba formally renounced his father’s political dynasty to embrace the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the incumbent administration. His defection was marked by a rare and public assessment of his father’s electoral prospects, as he asserted that the political momentum and structural advantages currently held by President Tinubu have made the presidency “unattainable” for any opposition figure.

Chaos in Abuja: Striking Workers Blockade Wike’s Office Amid Mounting Trash and Stalled Projects
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/chaos-in-abuja-striking-workers-blockade-wikes-office-amid-mounting-trash-and-stalled-projects/
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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) descended into administrative and environmental chaos on Monday, January 26, 2026, as striking workers under the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC) barricaded the FCTA Secretariat, effectively preventing the Minister, Nyesom Wike, and his security detail from accessing his office.

The industrial action, which has entered its second week, reached a volatile peak on Monday morning. Protesters, supported by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), established a human blockade at the main gates, turning back political appointees and chanting slogans demanding the Minister’s resignation. While the FCT Administration has attempted to secure a restraining order through the National Industrial Court (NICN) in suit NICN/ABJ/17/2026, the workers have remained defiant, insisting on the immediate payment of promotion arrears and the full implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage for area council staff.

Reps Reject Works Minister Umahi’s Rice Gift
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/reps-reject-works-minister-umahis-rice-gift/
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A significant row has erupted in the House of Representatives as several lawmakers formally rejected a donation of rice from the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, describing the gesture and its attached conditions as “demeaning” and “unnecessary.”

The controversy, which reached a flashpoint on Monday, January 26, 2026, stems from an internal memo circulated within the lower legislative chamber regarding the collection of five 25kg bags of rice allocated to each of the 360 members. Legislators expressed outrage over what they termed “stringent and cumbersome” requirements, which included a mandate for legislative aides to obtain special forms from the Speaker’s office, provide photocopies of official identity cards, and present written authorization from their principals.

Under investigation by EFCC, Okowa’s alleged interest in the Senate rankles
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/under-investigation-by-efcc-okowas-alleged-interest-in-the-senate-rankles/
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Many Nigerians are wondering what kind of country are we living in, sometimes, the attitude and activities of politicians put enormous stress on the emotional intelligence and put pressure on logic.
As we hurtle along the path of 2027 elections, politicians are again warming up, looking for the best way to stay relevant.
But this is normal, but what many have always found difficult to rationalize is the audacity and total lack of propriety of some politicians.
Many of the former and current political office holders are under investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for corruption issues.
Many would have thought that a person under suspicion and probe would want to clear his name before aspiring to public office.

Wike Not Above Law: Ex-Minister Shittu Says EFCC Will Probe FCT Minister Over Florida Property, Land Grabbing Allegations If Necessary
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/wike-not-above-law-ex-minister-shittu-says-efcc-will-probe-fct-minister-over-florida-property-land-grabbing-allegations-if-necessary/
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ABUJA — Former Minister of Communications and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Adebayo Shittu, has declared that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) maintains the institutional autonomy to investigate the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, should compelling evidence of financial misconduct arise. Speaking in a national interview on Sunday, January 25, 2026, Shittu dismissed the notion that any political figure, regardless of their status or relationship with the Presidency, is shielded from legal scrutiny.

His remarks come amidst intensifying calls from several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for a comprehensive probe into a myriad of allegations surrounding the FCT Minister, which include international money laundering, massive land racketeering, and judicial compromise.

CSOs and activists have filed detailed petitions with both Nigerian and U.S. authorities, outlining what they describe as a pattern of asset concealment and abuse of power dating back to Wike’s tenure as Governor of Rivers State. Specific allegations raised in the petitions to the EFCC and the Florida Attorney General include claims that Wike and his wife, a serving Nigerian Appeal Court Justice, secretly purchased three luxury lakeside properties in Winter Springs, Florida, between 2021 and 2023.

Crisis Hits ADC as ‘Obidients’ Demand Peter Obi as Sole 2027 Candidate; Northern Blocs Threaten Exit
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/crisis-hits-adc-as-obidients-demand-peter-obi-as-sole-2027-candidate-northern-blocs-threaten-exit/
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ABUJA — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is currently facing a severe internal crisis as the “Obidient” movement, loyal to former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, has issued a definitive demand for the party’s 2027 presidential ticket. This development, surfacing on Sunday, January 25, 2026, has triggered a significant rift within the opposition coalition, threatening the unity of the “Third Force” ahead of the next general election.

The friction reached a boiling point following a series of strategic meetings at the party’s national headquarters, where representatives of the Obidient movement insisted that Peter Obi be declared the sole presidential candidate without a primary contest. The movement argues that the South must complete an eight-year presidential cycle and that Obi remains the only opposition figure with the national grassroots appeal necessary to defeat the incumbent administration.

‘Guard the Forests Like the Pipelines’: Northern Elders Urge FG to Award Security Contracts to Armed Herdsmen
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/guard-the-forests-like-the-pipelines-northern-elders-urge-fg-to-award-security-contracts-to-armed-herdsmen/
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KADUNA — A coalition of Northern elder groups has sparked national debate by proposing that the Federal Government award formal security contracts to armed Fulani herdsmen to patrol Nigeria’s restive forests. The elders argue that formalizing the presence of herdsmen as a specialized “Forest Guard” is a necessary step to curb the wave of banditry and mass abductions currently paralyzing the North-West.

In a formal statement issued on Friday, January 23, 2026, the elder groups questioned what they termed a “security double standard” in the Federal Government’s approach to regional instability. They specifically drew a parallel between the billions of naira paid to ex-militants in the Niger Delta for pipeline surveillance and the lack of a similar investment in Northern forest security.

Beatrice Ekweremadu Returns to Nigeria Following UK Prison Release; Senator Husband Remains Jailed in London
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/beatrice-ekweremadu-returns-to-nigeria-following-uk-prison-release-senator-husband-remains-jailed-in-london/
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ABUJA — Beatrice Ekweremadu, the wife of former Nigerian Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, has officially returned to Nigeria after being released from a United Kingdom prison. Her arrival in the country on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, follows the completion of the custodial portion of her sentence for her role in a high-profile organ-harvesting conspiracy.

Mrs. Ekweremadu was received by family members and close associates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, marking her first time on Nigerian soil since the legal saga began in mid-2022. While her return has sparked celebrations in her hometown of Mpu, in the Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, it comes amidst the continued incarceration of her husband in London.

America Doesn’t Buy Luxury SUVs for First Ladies’: Peter Obi Decries Wasteful Spending in Renewed Call for a ‘New Nigeria’
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/america-doesnt-buy-luxury-suvs-for-first-ladies-peter-obi-decries-wasteful-spending-in-renewed-call-for-a-new-nigeria/
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ABUJA — Former presidential candidate and opposition leader Peter Obi has issued a stinging rebuke of the Nigerian government’s fiscal priorities, contrasting the nation’s “extravagant” expenditure on political elites with the disciplined governance of developed economies.

In a bold public address on Friday, January 23, 2026, the former Anambra State Governor questioned the continued allocation of billions of naira for luxury vehicles intended for federal legislators and the Office of the First Lady. Obi characterized these expenditures as a betrayal of a citizenry currently grappling with unprecedented economic hardship and hyperinflation.

Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu Under Fire for Rubber‑Stamp Role Amid Economic Hardship
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/deputy-speaker-ben-kalu-under-fire-for-rubber-stamp-role-amid-economic-hardship/
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ABUJA, Nigeria – Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, *Ben Kalu*, has come under intense criticism for failing to translate his public sympathy for Nigeria’s suffering masses into meaningful legislative action. While Kalu repeatedly declares that his “focus is governance, not 2027 ambition” and claims to champion the hungry citizens hit by President Tinubu’s harsh economic policies, observers say his record shows a pattern of *rubber‑stamp leadership* that sidelines genuine oversight.

In recent months, Kalu has highlighted a series of infrastructure achievements—over 20 completed road projects and a ₦10 billion rehabilitation of the Umuahia‑Bende‑Ohafia‑Arochukwu corridor—as evidence of his commitment to development. Yet, critics argue that these projects, while visible, do little to address the soaring inflation, unemployment, and food insecurity that have left millions of Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.

Presidency Affirms Fubara as Rivers APC Leader; Warns Wike Against Destabilizing State Interests
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/presidency-affirms-fubara-as-rivers-apc-leader-warns-wike-against-destabilizing-state-interests/
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“Mr. Wike has been adequately compensated with one of the most powerful ministries in the country,” Bwala stated, referencing the FCT portfolio. He added that the President’s gratitude does not grant any individual a license to undermine a sitting governor at the expense of Nigeria’s broader interests. “Once you cross the line of national stability, you will know,” the Special Adviser added, signaling that federal protection for the Minister’s local political battles is nearing its end.

Leadership Reaffirmation
The Presidency emphasized that under the APC’s constitutional framework, the sitting governor is the de facto leader of the party in his state. This declaration effectively neutralizes the claims of the pro-Wike APC faction in Rivers, which had previously sought to bypass the Governor in party decision-making.

Gov Uzodinma Sets Up Team for 2027 Senatorial Bid, Eyes Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere as Main Obstacle
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/gov-uzodinma-sets-up-team-for-2027-senatorial-bid-eyes-ikenga-imo-ugochinyere-as-main-obstacle/
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Owerri, Imo State – Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has reportedly begun assembling a campaign team for a potential senatorial run in 2027, with political insiders identifying Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere as the primary challenge to his ambition.

According to sources within the All Progressives Congress (APC), Uzodinma has been quietly reaching out to key stakeholders across Imo State to build a formidable structure ahead of the next election cycle. The governor, who has publicly pledged to hand over power to Owerri zone after his tenure, is said to be positioning himself to contest for the Imo West (Orlu) senatorial seat, leveraging his influence and grassroots network to gain an edge.

2027 Realignment: Kwankwaso Eyes ADC Move as Peter Obi Reportedly Secures APP as ‘Plan B’ Contingency
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/2027-realignment-kwankwaso-eyes-adc-move-as-peter-obi-reportedly-secures-app-as-plan-b-contingency/
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The Nigerian political landscape is witnessing a seismic shift as high-profile opposition leaders begin aggressive realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. Reports reaching our newsroom on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, indicate that former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso is on the verge of joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC), even as Peter Obi reportedly finalizes a secret “backup” alliance with the Action Peoples Party (APP).

The Battle for the ADC Ticket
The African Democratic Congress has emerged as a central hub for opposition figures following hints from former President Olusegun Obasanjo regarding his preferred choice for the party’s 2027 ticket. This development has reportedly caused a decline in the momentum of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s presidential ambitions, as influential power brokers shift their focus.

Political Shockwave as Atiku’s Son Defects to APC to Lead Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Drive
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/political-shockwave-as-atikus-son-defects-to-apc-to-lead-tinubus-2027-re-election-drive/
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ABUJA —In a major symbolic blow to Nigeria’s opposition, Abba Atiku Abubakar, the son of former Vice President and 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection, finalized on Thursday, January 15, 2026, was marked by a high-profile reception at the National Assembly, where the younger Abubakar was welcomed by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, and the APC National Vice Chairman (North-East), Mustafa Salihu.

2027 Shake-up: Kukah, Musa, and Dogara Tipped for VP Slot as Tinubu Faces Pressure for Muslim-Christian Ticket
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/2027-shake-up-kukah-musa-and-dogara-tipped-for-vp-slot-as-tinubu-faces-pressure-for-muslim-christian-ticket/
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With the 2027 general election cycle rapidly approaching, President Bola Tinubu is reportedly facing intense diplomatic and domestic pressure to abandon his “Same-Faith” ticket in favor of a Muslim-Christian pairing for his re-election bid.
According to a report by Daily Sun on Thursday, January 15, 2026, high-level geopolitical interests, specifically from the United States, are advocating for religious balancing on the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket to address concerns over national inclusion and the alleged persecution of Christians.
The VP Shortlist: Kukah, Musa, and Dogara
In light of these pressures, three prominent Northern Christians have emerged as potential replacements for the incumbent Vice President, Kashim Shettima:

“I Will Never Join APC”: Gov Bala Mohammed Blasts Tinubu Over ‘Institutional Terrorism’ and 2027 Power Play
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/i-will-never-join-apc-gov-bala-mohammed-blasts-tinubu-over-institutional-terrorism-and-2027-power-play/
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Allegations of Political VictimizationThe Governor’s remarks followed the recent arraignment of the Bauchi State Commissioner for Finance by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges involving an alleged $9.7 million terrorism financing scheme. Governor Mohammed characterized the charges as a “fabricated attempt” to criminalize his administration.


“I woke up to see accusations of terrorism, with my name being mentioned despite the constitutional immunity I hold,” the Governor stated. “I have kept quiet for too long, but I am not a coward. I will not allow anyone to criminalize me simply because I refuse to join the APC—and I will never join the APC.”

Rivers State APC Rejects Impeachment Move Against Governor Fubara
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/rivers-state-apc-rejects-impeachment-move-against-governor-fubara/
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In a statement signed by Darlington Nwauju, the APC spokesperson, the party emphasized that while the legislature has a constitutional role in checks and balances, the impeachment process is unacceptable. The party argues that the budget approved by the National Assembly in May 2025, with a total allocation of ₦1.485 trillion, is valid until August 2026, and Governor Fubara may not need to present a supplementary budget

Wike’s Wreckage: FCT On Autopilot As Minister’s Power Play Backfires
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/nigeria-democratic-front-urges-wike-to-focus-on-fct-not-politics/
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*Controversies Surrounding Wike’s Tenure*

Land Allocation Scandal: Wike allocated 2.082 hectares of prime land in Abuja to his son’s company, valued at $3.6 billion, sparking allegations of corruption and self-dealing.
Education Crisis: Primary schools in the FCT have been on strike for months, with hundreds of children out of school, due to Wike’s alleged neglect of education.
Property Seizures: Wike has been accused of seizing properties and allocating them to his political cronies.

Nigeria Democratic Front Urges Wike to Focus on FCT, Not Politics
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/nigeria-democratic-front-urges-wike-to-focus-on-fct-not-politics/
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*Controversies Surrounding Wike’s Tenure*

Land Allocation Scandal: Wike allocated 2.082 hectares of prime land in Abuja to his son’s company, valued at $3.6 billion, sparking allegations of corruption and self-dealing.
Education Crisis: Primary schools in the FCT have been on strike for months, with hundreds of children out of school, due to Wike’s alleged neglect of education.
Property Seizures: Wike has been accused of seizing properties and allocating them to his political cronies.

Panic In Anambra As APGA Set To Drop 15 Council Chairmen
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/panic-in-anambra-as-apga-set-to-drop-15-council-chairmen/
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It was earlier gathered that the 21 Council Mayors were promised automatic party tickets should they deliver Governor Charles Soludo during the last gubernatorial election in the state , a development that has not gone down with some aspirants of the party for the coming election.

Already about 87 persons have indicated interests to contest the ticket of the party and there have been sustained lobbying by these aspirants among party leaders for them to be considered.

Nigeria Democratic Front (NDF) Praises Bauchi Governor for Speaking Out Against Tinubu Administration’s Harassment
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/nigeria-democratic-front-ndf-praises-bauchi-governor-for-speaking-out-against-tinubu-administrations-harassment/
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n a statement, the NDF cited the recent arrest and detention of the Bauchi State Finance Commissioner, who was charged with fraud and accused of financing terrorism, as a prime example of the Tinubu administration’s alleged attempts to destabilize the opposition. “The EFCC has made allegations of fraud and terrorism financing against the Bauchi State Government without providing any evidence,” the NDF said. “This is a clear case of political persecution and an attempt to undermine the opposition.”

Wike’s World Narrows: Internal Turmoil and APC Pressure Mount
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/wikes-world-narrows-internal-turmoil-and-apc-pressure-mount/
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Sources close to Wike indicate that President Bola Tinubu’s allies are working to reduce his influence, with Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State allegedly leading the charge. Uzodinma is said to be positioning himself for a potential vice-presidential slot in 2031 under the APC banner.

Key Players Working Against Wike:

Governor Hope Uzodinma: Seeking to join the presidential train in 2031 as a possible vice-presidential candidate.
Other South-South Governors: Collaborating with Uzodinma to undermine Wike’s influence within the APC.
Northern APC Leaders: Joining forces to whittle down Wike’s political clove, with former Kano State Governor Ganduje allegedly part of the campaign.

APC Chairman Recognizes Fubara As Rivers Party Leader, Sets Condition For 2027 Support
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/apc-chairman-recognizes-fubara-as-rivers-party-leader-sets-condition-for-2027-support/
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, has officially named Governor Sim Fubara as the party leader in Rivers State. This announcement adds a new twist to the ongoing power struggle between Fubara and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike.

While Fubara recently defected to the APC and claimed the “001” position, Wike has insisted that he still holds the political keys to the state. However, the APC Chairman clarified the party’s stance during an interview on Channels Television.

Amb. Bianca Ojukwu And The Fake Chieftaincy Title From A Fake Traditional Ruler
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/amb-bianca-ojukwu-and-the-fake-chieftaincy-title-from-a-fake-traditional-ruler/
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The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to a publication by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E Amb. Bianca Ojukwu indicating that she has been conferred with a chieftaincy title of “Anyanwu N’Awalu Ora” which according to her was “conferred at the prestigious Igu Aro Cultural Festival by His Majesty Obi Austin Chukwuezugo Ndigwe (MON)”. Mrs Ojukwu is an APGA chieftain and her posts have caused massive confusion leading many to wonder whether her involvement in the phoney chieftaincy title signals a change in the State government’s policy stance or simply an unnecessary/avoidable affront to the State government and the Anambra traditional institutions and culture. As a government committed to law and order and to the promotion and protection of our culture and traditional institutions, the Anambra State government wishes to clarify and state as follows:

Ignore Sounds Of War, Rivers Will Remain Peaceful – Gov. Fubara
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/ignore-sounds-of-war-rivers-will-remain-peaceful-gov-fubara/
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Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has urged residents of the state to remain calm and resolute in the face of rising political tension, assuring that his administration will not be distracted or intimidated by what he described as “sounds of war.”
He emphasized that prayer, restraint, and peaceful engagement—not confrontation—will continue to define the government’s approach to leadership and governance in 2026.
The governor gave the assurance during the New Year crossover service at the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, Port Harcourt, where he reflected on the first two years of his administration, describing the period as one marked by turbulence and internal challenges that slowed the pace of development.

Ganduje is the former nat chair

HgAkpobomeEr:
APC is the ruling party in Nigeria, led by President Tinubu since 2023 | Ganduje is the current APC national chairman.

Ganduje Set To Receive Kano Gov Into APC
https://247ureports.com/2026/01/ganduje-set-to-receive-kano-gov-into-apc/
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Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, former APC National Chairman, is expected to receive Yusuf into the party, signaling a strategic alliance aimed at consolidating power in Kano State. The move is seen as a bid to secure a second term in office, with the APC offering a more stable platform for Yusuf’s ambitions.

BREAKING: Gov. Bala Mohammed Blasts Tinubu Over Tax Reforms, EFCC Arraignment of Bauchi Finance Commissioner
https://247ureports.com/2025/12/breaking-gov-bala-mohammed-blasts-tinubu-over-tax-reforms-efcc-arraignment-of-bauchi-finance-commissioner/
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The Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has launched a scathing attack on the Federal Government over the ongoing tax reform laws and the arraignment of his Commissioner for Finance by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations bordering on terrorism financing involving $9.7 million.

Speaking on the matter on Wednesday, Governor Mohammed described the development as politically motivated and an attempt to intimidate opposition figures, alleging that the APC-led Federal Government is using state institutions to persecute those who do not belong to the ruling party.

Kwankwaso Allegedly Set To Join APC With Ministerial Appointment
https://247ureports.com/2025/12/kwankwaso-allegedly-set-to-join-apc-with-ministerial-appointment/
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Sources close to Kwankwaso indicate that the deal includes conditions such as showing loyalty to President Tinubu and respecting APC leadership. The move has sparked division within the Kwankwasiyya Movement, with some supporters backing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s potential APC move, while others remain loyal to Kwankwaso.



The development comes amid speculation about Governor Yusuf’s own political future, with some insiders suggesting he may also be considering a switch to APC. However, Hashimu Dungurawa, NNPP Kano State Chairman suspended by his ward, downplayed the development, stating that Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf are “working same direction”. He insisted he remains the legitimate party chairman.