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2027: Coalition of Support Groups Back APC Consensus Candidate, Shehu Sani for Kaduna Central

2027: Coalition of Support Groups Back APC Consensus Candidate, Shehu Sani for Kaduna Central

A coalition of political support groups and stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has thrown its weight behind Shehu Sani as the consensus candidate for Kaduna Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition, which comprises youth groups, women associations, party mobilizers, grassroots campaign structures and community leaders drawn from the seven local government areas of Kaduna Central, announced its position during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Kaduna.

According to the groups, the endorsement of the former senator followed extensive consultations among party stakeholders and supporters across the zone who considered Sani’s track record, accessibility and constituency projects during his tenure in the National Assembly between 2015 and 2019.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, the Convener, Comrade Musa Ibrahim, said the decision to support Sani was based on what he described as “visible achievements, courage, and people-oriented representation.”

He noted that during his time in the Senate, Sani facilitated several developmental projects across Kaduna Central, including the construction and equipping of primary healthcare centres, educational support programmes, rural infrastructure and empowerment initiatives targeted at youths and women.

According to him, many residents of the senatorial district still remember the former lawmaker for maintaining close contact with constituents and consistently speaking on issues affecting ordinary Nigerians both at the state and national levels.

“The coalition carefully reviewed the political situation in Kaduna Central and resolved that Senator Shehu Sani remains the most experienced, accepted and credible aspirant capable of uniting the party and delivering victory for the APC in 2027,” Ibrahim said.

He added that the groups were particularly impressed by Sani’s long-standing involvement in human rights advocacy, democratic struggles and grassroots mobilization, describing him as a politician with “deep connection to the masses.”

The coalition further argued that Sani’s return to the Senate would strengthen legislative representation for Kaduna Central due to his experience, national visibility and understanding of the challenges confronting the district.

In an interview,another stakeholder, Hajiya Zainab Mohammed, said women and youth groups across the zone were supporting the former senator because of his inclusive style of leadership and accessibility while in office.

She stated that many beneficiaries of scholarships, empowerment schemes and social intervention programmes initiated during Sani’s tenure still identify with his leadership style.

“We believe Senator Shehu Sani has the capacity to effectively represent Kaduna Central again. He is accessible, outspoken and understands the needs of the people. That is why many groups have resolved to support him as consensus candidate,” she said.

The coalition also appealed to other aspirants and party leaders within the APC to work towards unity and avoid actions capable of creating divisions ahead of the elections.

According to the groups, adopting a consensus arrangement would help strengthen the party’s chances and ensure a rancour-free primary process in Kaduna Central.

Political observers believe the endorsement may further boost Sani’s growing political momentum within the APC following recent alignments and consultations among party stakeholders across the state.

Although the APC is yet to officially commence its primary process for the 2027 elections, political activities and consultations have continued to intensify across Kaduna State as aspirants position themselves for key elective offices.

You Lack Credibility To Vie For Elective Position… Abdullahi Tells Rtd AIG AbdurRahman

You Lack Credibility To Vie For Elective Position… Abdullahi Tells Rtd AIG AbdurRahman

Following preparation towards the 2027 General election in the country, politicians, business men, retirees and Clerics are buying nominations and expressions of interest forms vying for different positions in different political parties.

Among those that have purchased the forms include his former boss a retired AIG of Police Rtd Ahmad AbdurRahman . Abdullahi stated that he was so surprised and laughable seeing AbdurRahman purchasing the form. He stated that Rtd AIG AbdurRahman serves as Governor Bala Muhammad Chief Security Adviser recently but as a result of some infraction or incompetent he was forced to resign his appointment. AbdurRahman who was given the appointment out of compassion and intervention of a highly placed personnel but later claimed to be defected to the APC and equally seeking to become a member representing Alkaleri/ Kirfi Constituency.

Abdullahi further stated that he had worked with AIG AbdurRahman right from 2008 in EFCC when he was a CSP in the police up till 2025 as Chief Security Adviser Bauchi State. Abdullahi averred that the public have read in different media outlets his predicament with his former boss of betrayal, injustice and unfairness while in Bauchi which resulted Governor Bala Muhammad compelling him to resign his appointment with immediate effect, though he claimed that he voluntarily resigned his appointment but that is not true.

Abdullahi says he is disturbed and surprised AbdurRahman is now seeking an elective position under APC, he said AIG AbdurRahman was the one condemning and criticising President Bola Tinubu style of leadership saying APC government has bedevilled with corruption and nepotism, one can imagine how he come about seeking for elective position under the same APC. First and foremost I would like AbdurRahman to tell Nigerians or the people of Alkaleri/Kirfi what he has contributed in the development of the said area in terms of Youth empowerment, Job creation, Community development and engagement among others before thinking to represent them in the National Assembly.

In the same vein Abdullahi Ishaq averred that for the past 17 he served AbdurRahman they have never visited Alkaleri /Kirfi town, they will only goes to Jos and Bauchi but could not visited them once talk less of bringing any developmental projects in the area. AIG AbdurRahman is more concerned about Jos his birth town and Bauchi his origin so why would he think of contesting to represent the good people of Alkaleri/Kirfi in the National Assembly. I advised AIG AbdurRahman to desist from politics for now, he needs to be prepared fully by participating or bringing developmental programmes to the people which will automatically qualify him for any political or elective position.

The National Chairman Prof. Nentawe should be fair and just in his role as the APC National Chairman by ensuring a direct primary is conducted to enable the electorate vote candidate of their choice who has the capability and capacity to represent his people. All stakeholders in APC should also look for a good candidate who can represent them very well instead. Ladies and gentlemen, the good people of Alkaleri/Kirfi, I advised you to present somebody with capacity who will not win and relocate to Abuja and Kaduna. Rtd AIG AbdurRahman is only hiding under religion to achieve his desired objectives, Abdullahi added, he will only apply the “Used and Dump” syndrome on you, I am saying these from experienced

Rtd AIG AbdurRahman’s desire mainly was to dominate everybody using religion and pretend to be incorruptible. He is self-centered and doesn’t want anybody to grow or progress, he will do everything possible to bring you down by ridiculing you. He does the same to me by taking part in truncating my job but I thank God as the matter still before the FCT High Court and I will seek justice for his confession and admittance in taking part in my predicament.

Furthermore Abdullahi is appealing to the people generally to avoid voting for people that have the habits of Used and Dump, stating clearly that all the political parties in Nigeria have brought candidates that are not capable of representing their people with all honesty and transparency. He called on the people of Alkaleri/Kirfi to as a matter of urgent national importance conduct a survey or reach out to places where AIG AbdurRahman has worked before retirement to be sure of how many people from the area he secured employment for. Not even AbdurRahman anybody seeking an elective position from any part of the country should provide detailed information and figures of development he brought to his people, Abdullahi added

Open University: Aba To Get a Study Centre

Open University: Aba To Get a Study Centre

The Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti OFR has directed the commissioner Tertiary Education and the Managing Director, Greater Aba Development Authority to commence search for a temporary site for the location of a study centre of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) in Aba, pending the building of a befitting Centre in the area.

The directive followed the request of the Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma for a policy direction in citing a study centre of university in Aba.

Dr. Alex Otti added that Aba being a major commercial hub in the state cannot afford the luxury of being behind without a centre of NOUN.

He noted that “Open and distance learning over the years has transformed over the years using technology. Applications like the Google meet, zoom etc has facilitated meetings and the transfer of knowledge. In view of the role NOUN is playing in advancing education, it’s no brainer, Aba has to get a study centre.

“As a responsible government, the state is committed to educational development through the hiring, training and retraining of teachers. We will provide all the support you need (NOUN) for the actualisation of a centre in Aba”.

The Governor also Directed the commissioner Tertiary Education in the state Prof. Uche Uche in the direction of the Umuahia Study Centre of the university and see how the government can assist with the improvement of facilities for a better learning environment.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Uduma Oji Uduma who was on a courtesy visit to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti OFR at his country home in Umuehim, Nvosi Isiala-Ngwa South LGA Abia State, had told the Governor that NOUN does not only pride itself in education through open and distance learning alone but access and inclusiveness in all of its activities by carrying everyone along.

“The study centres are instruments of access and Aba being one of the largest cities in the country cannot be denied such access to education.

“NOUN as an institution that reflects federal character is willing to partner with any government or institution in creating access to education that allows people to express themselves freely” the Vice-Chancellor stated.

Prof. Uduma underscores the importance of ODL globally necessitating currently other universities in the country operating a dual mode of education delivery.

He thanked the Governor for his hospitality and accepting to host him and the university management despite the demand of his office.

Supporters Declare Hon. Tom Garba APC’s Winning Choice

Supporters Declare Hon. Tom Garba APC’s Winning Choice

In a resounding display of unity and confidence, prominent stakeholders and grassroots supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lere West have thrown their weight behind Hon. Tom Garba, declaring him the undisputed choice to fly the party’s flag for the Kaduna State House of Assembly.
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‎As the APC prepares for crucial primaries, a powerful coalition of leaders, youths, women, and traditional influencers insists that fielding Hon. Tom Garba is not just strategic but imperative for securing victory in Lere West. They describe him as a tested, accessible, and development-focused leader whose popularity cuts across ethnic, religious, and social lines.
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‎Speaking passionately to journalists, Mr. Nehemiah, a respected party member, said: “Hon. Tom Garba represents the future we desire. His track record of empowering youths and supporting youths is unmatched. He listens to the people and delivers results. If APC is serious about winning Lere West convincingly, Tom Garba is the man for the job.”
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‎Madam Jummai, another APC stalward in the area, echoed this sentiment with equal conviction. “Our women and mothers have suffered enough from poor representation. Tom Garba is different. He has empowered many widows, supported girl-child education, and ensured women have a voice. We stand solidly behind him. APC should listen to the voice of the people and give him the ticket without delay,” she declared.
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‎Mallam Umar, a prominent elder, highlighted Garba’s appeal among the younger generation. “The youths of Lere West are energized by Hon. Tom Garba. He understands our struggles with unemployment and lack of skills. Through his various interventions, many have gained training and start-up support. He is our candidate. Any other choice risks alienating the critical voting bloc that decides elections,” Mallam Umar asserted.
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‎Adding his voice, Alhaji Ibrahim, a respected community elder with deep influence across the local government, emphasized Garba’s unifying factor. “In Lere West, we need a candidate who brings people together. Tom Garba has built bridges where others built walls. He is respected by both Muslims and Christians, farmers and traders alike. He is the peace we need and the development we deserve,” Alhaji Ibrahim noted.
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‎Master Jauro, a vocal representative of the younger artisans and market leaders, was equally enthusiastic: “Hon. Tom Garba does not make empty promises. What he says, he does. From support for small businesses and other meaning empowerment, his impact is visible. The ticket must go to him so we can continue this progress under APC,” he said.
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‎Reinforcing the growing consensus, an APC stalwart, Hajia Salamatu, captured the mood of the moment: “If APC wants to win Lere West, Tom Garba is the candidate no two ways about it because he is loved by all across the local government.”
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‎Supporters point to Hon. Tom Garba’s impressive credentials. A seasoned politician with a heart for service, he has consistently championed youth empowerment, agricultural support, and women’s inclusion. His accessibility has earned him admiration even from opposition strongholds, positioning him as a candidate capable of delivering a landslide victory.
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‎Analysts believe that in an increasingly competitive political landscape, APC cannot afford to ignore the voice of the people. Lere West remains a strategic constituency, and fielding a candidate with broad acceptability like Hon. Tom Garba could consolidate APC’s hold on Kaduna State.
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‎As the countdown to the primaries intensifies, the message from Lere West is loud and clear: Hon. Tom Garba is the winning ticket. Stakeholders urge the APC leadership at both state and national levels to heed the clarion call of the people and formally endorse him as the party’s candidate for the Kaduna State House of Assembly seat in Lere West.
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‎The overwhelming endorsement reflects not just political calculation but a genuine desire for continued progress. With Tom Garba at the helm, supporters are confident that Lere West will witness unprecedented development and that APC will secure a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.

Ex-Councillors Celebrate Information Minister Malagi at 60

Ex-Councillors Celebrate Information Minister Malagi at 60

The National Forum of Ex-Councillors of Nigeria has extended warm felicitations to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, on the occasion of his 60th birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, May 4, 2026, the association described Malagi’s attainment of the diamond age as a milestone worthy of celebration, commending his contributions to governance and national development.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, the National President of the forum, Auwal Kassim Hassan, said the minister has demonstrated exemplary leadership since assuming office.

He noted that Malagi, who also serves as the National Patron of the forum, has left “indelible footprints” through his commitment to effective information management and national orientation.

Hassan further stated that the association, which represents former councillors across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, takes pride in identifying with the minister’s achievements and leadership style.

He added that the forum remains committed to supporting the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, emphasizing that Malagi’s role in government aligns with their vision for sustained national progress.

The forum wished the minister continued good health, wisdom and success in his service to the nation.

Hon. Amb. Auwal Kassim Hassan

Nationál President

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2027: Presidency Backs Akpabio, Barau, Bamidele, Yari, Fatai Buhari, Abiru, Wamakko, Others for Automatic APC Return Tickets

2027: Presidency Backs Akpabio, Barau, Bamidele, Yari, Fatai Buhari, Abiru, Wamakko, Others for Automatic APC Return Tickets

Fresh indications emerged over the weekend that the Presidency have quietly endorsed automatic return tickets for a number of serving federal lawmakers under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Multiple party insiders familiar with ongoing consultations within the corridors of power disclosed that the move is aimed at consolidating the party’s grip on the National Assembly while rewarding loyalty, legislative experience and political stability.

A senior Presidency source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly on the matter, said those being considered include principal officers of the National Assembly, ranking senators and lawmakers regarded as “high-performing and dependable allies” of the administration.

According to the source, the list cuts across several states and geopolitical zones, reflecting what insiders described as an early strategy by the ruling party to avoid internal rancour and strengthen cohesion ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested 2027 electoral cycle.

Of the party’s men in the Senate, only 19 Senators have been confirmed and duly informed for automatic tickets, while a total of 102 members from the House of Representatives have also been confirmed with their names sent to the party’s National Chairman, Netanwe Yiwaltda for necessary approval.

Among the top lawmakers pencilled down for automatic return tickets are Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; Abdulaziz Yari and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas.

The source further revealed that the arrangement extends beyond the National Assembly leadership to senators and lawmakers considered loyal to both the party and the Presidency.

Those favoured for automatic senatorial return tickets include Tokunbo Abiru and Sanni Eshinlokun from Lagos; Abdulfatai Buhari from Oyo North; Kawu Sumaila from Kano South; Aliyu Wamakko from Sokoto; Adamu Aliero and Abdullahi Yahaya from Kebbi.

Others named by the source are Mustapha Saliu and Oyelola Yisa Ashiru from Kwara; Yemi Adaramodu from Ekiti; Sunday Katung from Kaduna; Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua from Katsina State; Senator Mohammed Sani Musa (Niger East) and Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central).

Insiders said those names were arrived at, after wide consultations behind closed doors to identify strategic lawmakers whose return to the National Assembly is considered crucial to the party’s long-term legislative agenda.

He dismissed any suggestion that some of those given automatic tickets had served two or three terms or more, saying “Ahmad Lawan (Yobe North) had been In the National Assembly since 1999. Served 2 terms in the House and has been in the Senate since 2007, serving as Senate President (2019–2023). And David Mark (Benue South) until recently served from 1999 to 2019 (20 years). He was the President of the Senate from 2007 to 2015.

“Ali Ndume (Borno South) has been in the National Assembly since 2003, serving in both the House and Senate, making him one of the longest-serving lawmakers in the country”.

The source also hinted that some members of the House of Representatives are benefiting from similar arrangements, particularly those occupying strategic committee positions or considered influential within their states.

For the return tickets to some House of Representatives’ members, Niger and Oyo States have five members each already approved while some other states either have more or less than five, with those approved totalling 102 across the 36 States of the federation.

In Kwara State (APC), Representatives for automatic return tickets include Hon. Ismail Semo, Hon. Imam Ahmed Adekunle, Hon. Aweda Olatunde Emmanuel, Hon. Abubakar Fatima Jemeelah, and Hon. Olatunji Dare Emmanuel. For Kaduna State, the Reps favoured include the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, alongside Abdulkarim Ahmed, Abdullahi Ango, Aliyu Abdullahi, Amos Daniel, Jallo Mohammed, Mukhtar, Munir Mohammed, and Usman Zubairu. Also included from Kano State are Abubakar Kabir Abubakar and Hon. Sani Abdulraheem.

The list from Ondo State include Hon. Timehin Adelegbe and Hon. Festus Adefiranye, while that of Oyo State include Hon. Akin Alabi, Hon. Tajudeen Abisodun Were; Hon. Olamiju Alao-Akala, and Hon. Lafisoye Akinmoyede. Lagos State (APC). In Lagos, the beneficiary lawmakers Representatives include Hon. Babajide Obanikoro, Hon. Wale Raji, Hon. Lanre Ogunyemi, Hon. Oyewo Olanrewaju, Hon. Adewale Temitope, Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle, and Hon. Taofeek Abiodun.

Interestingly, the Presidency is also said to be weighing the political future of some second-term APC governors who are quietly positioning themselves for senatorial seats after completing their constitutional tenure in office.

According to the insider, several governors have allegedly begun discreet consultations with power brokers within the party and the Presidency over possible transitions to the Senate in 2027.

“The thinking within the system is simple,” the source said. “The party wants tested hands, loyal party men and people who understand governance and legislative stability.
Many of them have stood firmly with the administration at critical moments.”

Political observers say the unfolding permutations signal that the battle for the 2027 elections may have started much earlier than expected, with strategic alignments already taking shape across the ruling party.

Supporters of the alleged plan argue that rewarding loyal and experienced lawmakers could strengthen governance continuity.

They argued that this development would help the President to consolidate on the gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda before and after the 2027 general elections.

Wike’s Contradictory Remarks on Abaji Chairman Stir Political Reactions in FCT

Wike’s Contradictory Remarks on Abaji Chairman Stir Political Reactions in FCT

…As FCT residents Prefer Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi ahead of Senatorial Election

Recent contrasting remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, about the Chairman of Abaji Area Council, Abubakar Umar Abdullahi, have sparked conversations within political circles in Abuja.

Wike had earlier acknowledged Abdullahi’s leadership capacity, describing the council chairman,popularly known as AUA,as a humble leader with a deep understanding of his people’s needs. He was also quoted as saying he had “rarely seen a chairman with such humility,” adding that Abdullahi was “destined for greater things.”

However, recent developments suggest a shift in tone, as the same Abdullahi has reportedly been referred to as a “small boy” in what observers interpret as a reflection of changing political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The apparent contradiction has drawn attention from stakeholders and analysts, many of whom see it as indicative of the fluid nature of political alliances and rhetoric in Nigeria. With Abdullahi widely believed to be nursing senatorial ambitions, the evolving narrative is being linked to the intensifying contest for political influence in the FCT.

Political observers note that while public endorsements and commendations often signal alignment, they can quickly change when interests diverge, especially in the build-up to major elections.

Supporters of the Abaji council chairman have, however, dismissed the development as inconsequential, insisting that Abdullahi’s record in office and his connection with the grassroots remain strong. They argue that his performance and leadership style will ultimately shape public opinion more than political remarks.

As political activities gradually gather momentum, the situation highlights the growing stakes in the FCT’s political landscape, where key actors are expected to realign in the coming months.

For many residents and stakeholders, the focus remains on leadership quality and service delivery, as the electorate prepares to make its choice in the next electoral cycle.

FCT 2027: Equity Debate Reshapes Senatorial Contest as Abuja South Pushes for Power Shift

FCT 2027: Equity Debate Reshapes Senatorial Contest as Abuja South Pushes for Power Shift

By Abuja Advocates for Equity and Justice Forum

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a familiar yet increasingly urgent debate has resurfaced in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT): the question of equity, fairness, and rotational representation in the senatorial seat.

At the centre of this renewed conversation is a growing call by stakeholders—particularly from the Abuja South axis, comprising Abaji, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali Area Councils—for what they describe as a long-overdue opportunity to produce the next senator representing the FCT.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, the FCT has been represented in the Senate by a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous politicians. Among them are Khairat Abdulrazaq Gwadabe, Isah Maina, Usman Jibrin Wowo, Sidi Ali, Philip Aduda, and the incumbent, Ireti Heebah Kingibe.

A closer look at their tenures reveals a pattern that has now become the basis for agitation. While early representation rotated relatively evenly—with Khairat Gwadabe and Isah Maina serving four years each—later developments altered the balance significantly.

The emergence of Philip Aduda, who represented the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC)/Bwari axis—commonly referred to as Abuja North—marked a turning point. Aduda held the senatorial seat for 12 consecutive years, the longest tenure in the history of FCT representation in the Senate.

In contrast, indigenous representatives from Abuja South, such as Usman Jibrin Wowo and Sidi Ali, served significantly shorter terms—approximately one year and three years respectively. Collectively, their tenure amounts to about four years, a disparity that has become a rallying point for proponents of zoning.

Beyond geography, the debate intersects with the sensitive issue of indigeneity in the FCT. Although the capital is constitutionally designated as a territory belonging to all Nigerians, indigenous communities—largely concentrated in Abuja South—have continued to demand greater inclusion in political representation.

Analysts note that while three of the six senators since 1999 are considered indigenous, their cumulative time in office falls short when compared to their counterparts from Abuja North or non-indigenous backgrounds.

“The issue is not just about who has served, but how long and from where,” a political observer in Abuja noted. “Equity, in this context, is both geographical and cultural.”

The debate has placed the spotlight on the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose internal philosophy emphasizes fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Supporters of Abuja South’s agitation argue that the party’s credibility will be tested by its willingness to reflect these principles in its candidate selection process. They point to the APC’s broader reliance on zoning and political balancing as a mechanism for managing Nigeria’s diversity.

“There is a moral obligation on the APC to translate into action,” a party chieftain said. “Anything short of that could trigger internal dissent and electoral backlash.”

Complicating the situation is the current political configuration within the FCT. The APC state chairman is widely believed to be from Abuja North, a factor some stakeholders interpret as strengthening the case for micro-zoning the senatorial ticket to the southern axis.

Equally significant is the role of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, whose influence looms large in the evolving political landscape. Since his appointment, Wike has been credited with accelerating infrastructure development and initiating reforms in traditional institutions across the territory.

While his performance has attracted commendation, political watchers believe his stance could be decisive in shaping the APC’s 2027 strategy in the FCT.

“There is an expectation that the minister, given his emphasis on order and structure, would support a balanced arrangement,” another analyst observed. “Endorsing Abuja South could consolidate political gains and foster unity.”

The FCT remains strategically important—not only as Nigeria’s capital but also as a politically competitive territory. In recent elections, opposition parties have made notable inroads, often capitalizing on internal divisions within dominant parties.

Advocates of zoning warn that ignoring the equity argument could deepen fractures within the APC and create openings for rivals. Conversely, conceding the ticket to Abuja South, they argue, could galvanize grassroots support and improve the party’s electoral prospects in 2027.

Ultimately, the debate over who produces the next FCT senator reflects a broader tension in Nigerian politics—the delicate balance between merit, inclusivity, and political pragmatism.

Adding another layer to the conversation is the current distribution of federal appointments, which critics argue is skewed toward Abuja North, including the ministerial position.

Although the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, the practice has evolved into an unwritten principle for managing the country’s complex diversity. In the FCT—where questions of identity, ownership, and belonging remain deeply rooted—the stakes are particularly high.

As 2027 approaches, the decision before political actors, especially within the APC, goes beyond candidate selection. It is a defining moment that will test their commitment to fairness, equity, and justice.

For many in Abuja South, the message is unequivocal: the time for inclusion is now. Whether that demand translates into political reality remains to be seen.

FCT Senatorial Race: Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Picks Expression of Interest,Nomination Forms

FCT Senatorial Race: Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Picks Expression of Interest,Nomination Forms

The Chairman of Abaji Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi, has formally joined the race for the FCT Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections after obtaining his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms.

Hon. Abdullahi’s entry into the contest follows mounting pressure and sustained appeals from a broad spectrum of stakeholders across the territory, including community leaders, youth groups, women organisations, and political associates, who have urged him to contest.

Sources close to the council chairman revealed that the push for his candidacy was largely driven by what supporters describe as his “proven leadership capacity, grassroots connection, and performance” during his tenure in Abaji Area Council.

A stakeholder, who spoke on condition of anonymity, expressed confidence in Abdullahi’s ability to deliver effective representation at the National Assembly.

“They believe strongly that Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi possesses the competence, experience, and political will to represent the diverse interests of residents of Abuja,” the source said.

Political observers note that his administration in Abaji Area Council has been characterised by efforts to improve infrastructure, strengthen local governance, and promote inclusive development—factors that have significantly enhanced his political standing within the FCT.

Supporters further argue that his entry into the senatorial race could reshape the political landscape of the territory, citing his growing acceptance among youths and women, as well as his perceived ability to bridge grassroots and elite interests.

Although he has formally declared his intention, Hon. Abdullahi is expected to unveil a comprehensive agenda detailing his plans to address key challenges facing residents of the FCT, including infrastructural deficits, youth unemployment, and social welfare concerns.

Analysts believe the 2027 FCT senatorial contest will attract considerable attention, with Abdullahi’s entry adding momentum to what is already shaping up to be a keenly contested race.

As the election season gradually gathers pace, residents of the nation’s capital will be watching closely as aspirants articulate their vision for the future of the rapidly expanding territory.

WHEN THE CAP FITS : Abdullahi’s Youth-Driven Playbook for National Mobilisation

WHEN THE CAP FITS : Abdullahi’s Youth-Driven Playbook for National Mobilisation

In a political era where connection with young people increasingly defines influence, few public officials have blended governance and grassroots engagement as effectively as Dr Mustapha Abdullahi. As Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and Director of Youth for the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Abdullahi has emerged as a compelling figure whose cap, quite fittingly, rests on both policy leadership and youth mobilisation.

At just under a decade into national prominence, Abdullahi represents a new generation of technocrats redefining public service. Appointed in 2023, he has not only overseen critical energy reforms but has also stepped beyond his technical mandate to energise a politically conscious youth base.

His role within the Renewed Hope Ambassadors has placed him at the intersection of governance and political communication. Rather than relying on traditional mobilization tactics, Abdullahi has adopted a more strategic approach—translating government policies into relatable narratives that resonate with young Nigerians. His engagements across forums, policy discussions, and youth-focused platforms have helped position governance achievements as tangible, everyday realities.

Central to his influence is his ability to connect policy with people. Under his leadership at ECN, initiatives around renewable energy, rural electrification, and sustainable development have not only advanced national goals but also created talking points that energise youth participation. These projects, while technical on the surface, serve as powerful tools for mobilising young Nigerians around the broader vision of development and continuity.

Beyond policy advocacy, Abdullahi has actively contributed to youth development through mentorship and community engagement. His involvement in grassroots sports promotion, talent development, and youth-inclusive programmes reflects a broader understanding that mobilisation goes beyond politics—it requires building trust, opportunity, and visibility for young people.

As Director of Youth in the Renewed Hope structure, his influence extends into shaping elite and professional youth opinion—an often overlooked but critical demographic. By engaging young professionals, academics, and industry stakeholders, Abdullahi has helped expand the movement’s appeal beyond conventional political bases, reinforcing credibility and intellectual backing for its agenda.

His recent activities further underline this dual role. From facilitating international partnerships aimed at boosting Nigeria’s renewable energy capacity to championing initiatives that promise job creation and innovation, Abdullahi continues to align national development with youth aspirations. Notably, discussions around establishing solar manufacturing capacity and attracting foreign investment into Nigeria’s energy sector reflect a forward-looking agenda that speaks directly to employment and economic inclusion.

In many ways, Abdullahi embodies a shift in Nigeria’s political ecosystem—where technocrats are no longer confined to boardrooms but are active players in shaping public sentiment. His ability to bridge policy outcomes with youth engagement makes him not just an administrator, but a mobiliser in the truest sense.

When the cap fits, it is worn with purpose. For Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, that cap represents a rare blend of intellect, influence, and youth connection—qualities that continue to define his growing relevance on Nigeria’s national stage.