By Rukevwe Odeh

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has appealed to young Nigerians to resist being used as instruments of violence during the 2027 general elections, stressing that peaceful participation is essential to the country’s democratic progress.

The monarch made the appeal while receiving members of the Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen at his palace in Lagos. He urged political stakeholders and citizens to conduct themselves responsibly before, during and after the elections.

Akiolu encouraged youths to channel their energy into productive and lawful activities instead of political thuggery, intimidation and hate-driven campaigns. According to him, peaceful elections are necessary for national unity, stability and sustainable development.

He also advised political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns and respect the rule of law throughout the electoral process. Maintaining peace, he noted, is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of every Nigerian.

The traditional ruler further called on Nigerians to remain patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms would produce positive results over time. He urged citizens to continue supporting the government through prayers and constructive engagement.

Addressing APC officials, Akiolu charged them to uphold honesty, integrity and selfless leadership while working to strengthen the party and promote good governance. He warned against pursuing political positions solely for personal gain, insisting that leadership should always serve the public interest.

The monarch also condemned vote-buying and other practices capable of undermining credible elections. He encouraged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the democratic process, describing voting as both a civic duty and a vital contribution to Nigeria’s future.

By Rukevwe Odeh

The Ex-Niger Delta Agitators Forum for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its support for the party’s presidential ticket of Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi ahead of the 2027 general election.

The endorsement followed an emergency leadership meeting held in Bomadi, Delta State, where representatives of the forum discussed national issues, including the economy, insecurity, and infrastructure.

In a statement jointly signed by the forum’s National Chairman, Gen. Ojuemi Oweikeme, National Secretary, Gen. Ebikefe Freedom, and National Spokesperson, Comrade Daniel Ezekiel Perela, the group congratulated Amaechi on his emergence as Atiku’s running mate. It described the nomination as recognition of the South-South region’s contribution to Nigeria’s peace and economic development.

According to the forum, the announcement was warmly received across the Niger Delta, with supporters celebrating in several communities throughout the region. The group said the development reflects confidence in Amaechi’s leadership experience and political influence.

The forum also criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, citing economic hardship and rising insecurity as reasons Nigerians should seek a change in leadership during the 2027 elections.

It further praised Amaechi’s recent political consultations with prominent leaders from different parts of the country, describing the engagements as evidence of his ability to build alliances across regional and political divides.

Highlighting Amaechi’s record in public office, the group noted his previous service as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Governor of Rivers State, and Minister of Transportation, stating that he demonstrated capacity and effective leadership in each position.

Reaffirming its commitment to the ADC presidential campaign, the forum pledged to mobilize support at the grassroots level, promising to campaign across local government areas and states nationwide to secure victory for the Atiku–Amaechi ticket in the 2027 presidential election.

By Rukevwe Odeh

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing mounting criticism following revisions to the list of candidates produced from its National Assembly primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The changes have sparked debate over internal democracy within the ruling party, with opposition parties accusing the APC of disregarding the outcome of its primaries by replacing some candidates who were initially declared winners.

According to reports, the APC’s National Working Committee reviewed petitions submitted after the party’s primaries and approved changes to several senatorial nominations across multiple states. The exercise reportedly restored the candidacies of a number of serving senators while replacing some earlier winners.

The development has drawn sharp reactions from opposition parties. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described the revisions as evidence of confusion within the APC, while the Labour Party argued that replacing candidates who emerged through valid primaries undermines democratic principles and the Electoral Act. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) also criticised the move, describing it as inconsistent with democratic practice.

Some political observers believe the controversy could deepen internal divisions within the ruling party and lead to legal disputes as the 2027 elections draw closer.

Responding to the criticism, the APC defended its actions, insisting that every adjustment followed the recommendations of its appeal process. The party maintained that the review was carried out in line with its constitution and was intended to ensure fairness for aspirants who challenged the outcome of the primaries.

APC spokesman Bala Ibrahim said the appeal mechanism exists to address legitimate grievances and ensure justice where necessary. He also dismissed criticisms from opposition parties, urging them to focus on resolving challenges within their own organisations.

The controversy comes amid increased political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with analysts predicting that disputes arising from party primaries could shape the political landscape in the months ahead.

Source: Adapted from reporting by Daily Report Nigeria and corroborated by additional reporting from Punch Newspapers.