IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

‎The quest for credible, visionary, and people-oriented leadership in Orsu State Constituency demands a candidate with proven capacity, grassroots connection, political loyalty, and a sincere passion for service. 

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‎Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa (Akaraka Orsu) stands tall as one of the finest choices for the APC ticket to represent Orsu State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly. His personality, experience, accessibility, and commitment to the growth of Orsu make him deserving of the opportunity to fly the party’s flag.

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‎He possesses the qualities of a true servant leader. He understands the challenges facing the people of Orsu, especially the need for improved infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, security, and economic opportunities. Having maintained close contact with the grassroots over the years, he is fully aware of the expectations and aspirations of the people. This connection places him in the best position to effectively represent their interests at the Imo State House of Assembly.

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‎One of the strongest reasons Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa should emerge as the APC candidate is his reputation for humility, accessibility, and compassion. Leadership is not merely about holding office; it is about listening to the people, understanding their struggles, and working tirelessly to improve their lives. Many within Orsu Local Government see him as a dependable figure who relates with people across different age groups and political backgrounds without discrimination. His ability to unite people and build bridges is a valuable asset that will strengthen both the APC and the Orsu State constituency at large.

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‎It is worthy to note that Akaraka represents a new generation of progressive leadership driven by ideas, innovation, and development-oriented thinking. At a time when many citizens desire energetic and responsive representation, he offers hope for purposeful legislation and effective engagement. His emergence would inspire confidence among young people and encourage broader participation in governance and democratic processes.

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‎Electorally, Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa also stands as a strong candidate capable of mobilizing support across the wards in Orsu LGA. His popularity among party faithful and ordinary citizens gives APC a better chance of securing victory in the general election. Choosing a candidate with grassroots acceptance is crucial for party success, and Akaraka has continued to demonstrate the political strength and goodwill necessary to achieve this objective.

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‎In conclusion, the APC ticket for Orsu State Constituency, Imo State House of Assembly should be entrusted to a man who embodies loyalty, competence, unity, compassion, and vision. Ifeanyi Destiny Nwadikwa has shown through his actions and commitment that he is prepared to serve the people diligently and represent them honorably at the Imo State House of Assembly. His candidacy offers APC an opportunity to present a credible, capable, and people-centered leader who can effectively champion the interests of Orsu and contribute meaningfully to the development of Imo State.

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‎My name remains Nze Wilson Amaefule and I write from Amaimo, Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu LGA.

IMHA: ONOWU OBINNA ONYEOCHA UNVEILS CAMPAIGN COORDINATORS, CHARGES THEM TO BE GOOD AMBASSADORS OF GOV. UZODINMA

...as GOC Nwadike Emerges Director-General

By Kaima Awurunke, Owerri

Race for the Imo State House Of Assembly, Orlu State Constituency, Has Earnestly Commenced In Orlu LGA Following The Unveiling And Inauguration Wednesday, Of His Campaign Team By One Of The Top Contenders, Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha Also Known As "Onowu".

Onyeocha Is From The Umutanze Autonomous Community In Orlu North Of Orlu LGA; One Of The Areas Recently Ravaged By Insecurity, But Is Now Bubbling With Life And Excitements, Following The Declaration To Participate In The Race By Their Kinsman, Onowu Obinna Onyeocha.

Inaugurating The "Team Onowu" Comprising Of Ward Coordinators From The 13 Wards In Orlu LGA, Onyeocha Charged Them To Be Good Ambassadors Of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma Who, According To Him, Is Actual "Captain" Of The Ship He Is Assisting To Sail.

Earlier, Onyeocha's Team Of Elders Had Approved And Named Comrade GOC Nwadike From Umuna Ward In The Orlu South Of Orlu LGA As The Director-General Of The Campaign Organisation. 

It Would Be Recalled That Nwadike Was The Director-General Of The Incumbent Executive Chairman Of Orlu LGA, Pastor Chris Mbarie, And He Helped Very Significantly In Marketing And Promoting Mbarie's persona For The Executive Chairmanship Position Of The Council He Today Occupies.

Nwadike Said He Accepted The Appointment As His Own Little Way Of Helping To Promote Peace, Equity, Fairness And Justice In Orlu, Noting That He Worked As The DG For The Incumbent Executive Chairman Because The Office As At The Time Of His Aspiration, Fell Rightly To His Orlu North (Orsu Clan). He Explained That Going By The Existing Gentleman's Understanding Between The Two Clans In Orlu LGA, The Position Of The Member Of The House Of Assembly For Orlu State Constituency In 2027 Would Also Go To Orsu Clan, Hence His Support For An Aspirant From The Orsu Clan.

Other Strategic LGA And Ward Coordinators So Far Appointed Were Named And Led Through Oath Of Offices By A Priest Who Attended The Ceremony In The Presence Of Large Supporters From Umutanze And Orlu In General.

The Team Also Announced Several Proposed Activities, Including Ward Tours Expected To Commence By This Weekend.

Onyeocha Maintained That His Aspiration Is In Keeping With His Determination To Continue To Help The Administration Of His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma In Maintaining Peace And Development In Orlu State Constituency While Remaining In Sync With Orlu People On Their Zoning Tradition.

"I Was Once Asked To Run For This Office In 2023, But I Declined And Told My Leader And Our People That It Was Not Yet The Turn Of My Orsu Clan. That Was Partly How The Incumbent Member Found Himself There. And He Even Vowed Before Me And Our People That In Keeping With Our Strong And Very Tested Zoning Arrangements, He Was Not Going To Seek For Re-election.

"Orlu People Went About This Understanding Because Of The Complex And Mixed Clannish Composition Of The Area, And Since This Arrangement Has Been In Operation, Outsiders Rarely Know Of Our Mixed Bloods In Orlu. This Arrangement Has Brought Peace In Our Local Government, So, It Is Important That We Continue To Respect And It For Peace To Continue To Reign In Our Dear Council. We Must Learn To Shelve Aside Our Selfish Interests When Matters Of Communal Interest Are Involved.

"The House Of Assembly For Orlu State Constituency In 2027 Goes To The Orsu Clan, And I Am Promising You, My Orlu People, The Kind Of Positive And Progressive Representation That You Have Never Experienced Before. Trust Me When I Say This, And Hold Me By My Words", Onyeocha Assured.

Present at the event was the General Secretary Of Óganihu Isu; the overall Socio-political platform of Isu Clan, Ogbuehi John Kennedy Duru who presented a message from his Isu people affirming that the next zoning arrangement for the Imo State House of Assembly from 2027 favours the Orsu Clan. He stated that any Isu politician seeking to twart the agreement is on his own, and will be considered a trouble maker. 

....... As Party launches digital membership registration, reaffirms support for apex leader

The Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Imo State on Saturday held a significant stakeholders’ meeting as the newly emerged State Chairman, Rt. Hon. Michael Anyanwu, presided over the gathering for the first time since assuming office.

The former lawmaker recently emerged as the State Chairman of the party, succeeding the former chairman, Barr. Greg Okemili. Prior to his emergence, Anyanwu served as the State Secretary of the party, a position in which he played an active role in the party’s organizational development and internal coordination.

The meeting brought together key leaders and stakeholders of the party from across the state in a renewed effort to strengthen the party’s structures, deepen unity among members, and reposition the party for greater relevance and impact in Imo State.

Stakeholders engaged in extensive deliberations on strategies for party growth, grassroots expansion, and stronger internal coordination among party organs. Participants emphasized the need for collective commitment and cooperation as the party continues its efforts to build a stronger political platform in the state.

A major highlight of the meeting was the official flag-off of the party’s E-Membership Registration Exercise, a digital initiative aimed at creating a modern, transparent, and well-coordinated membership system that will enhance participation and strengthen the party’s grassroots base across the state.

Another key moment during the meeting was the unveiling of new members of the State leadership. Hon. Samuel Umunnakwe, a former House of Assembly candidate was presented as the State Secretary, while Nneoma Jane Nwoke was unveiled as the State Deputy Chairman. Their emergence, stakeholders noted, would further strengthen the leadership team as the party works to reposition itself in the state’s political landscape.

In a show of solidarity, stakeholders unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Apex Leader of the party in Imo State, High Chief Kemdi Chino Opara, PhD, KSC in recognition of his steadfast leadership, guidance, and continued support toward the growth and stability of the party.

The stakeholders also reaffirmed their confidence in the State Working Committee led by Rt. Hon. Anyanwu, pledging their support for the leadership as it works to reposition the party for effective organization and service to the people.

Party leaders described the meeting as productive and forward-looking, expressing optimism that the resolutions reached would further strengthen unity within the party and enhance its capacity to respond to the aspirations of the people of Imo State. 

His Excellency, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu heartily congratulates the government and people of Imo State on the occasion of the Imo@50 anniversary celebration.

Describing the golden jubilee as a moment of deep reflection, Ugwumba noted that the milestone provides an opportunity to appreciate the shared journey of Imo State, the resilience of its people, and the immense promise of its future.

He paid special tribute to the heroes past, as well as political, traditional, and religious leaders including various groups and spirited individuals whose sacrifices, vision, and selfless service have contributed significantly to the growth, stability, and identity of the State, noting that their legacies remain the foundation upon which Imo continues to build.

As Imo State marks this historic landmark, Ugwumba reaffirmed his commitment to the unity, progress, and overall wellbeing of Ndi Imo.

He wished the present government of Imo state under the leadership His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma and the good people of Imo state a happy 50th anniversary. 

In Igbo culture, the phrase Ezigbo Mmadụ is not used lightly. It describes a person whose character, compassion, and deeds radiate goodness, truth, and integrity. Such a person embodies kindness, fairness, and a sense of responsibility toward others. In our time, one figure who truly reflects this ideal is Ugwumba Uche Nwosu. His life, leadership, and contributions to humanity have made him an outstanding representation of what it means to be a genuine and selfless human being.

Ugwumba Uche Nwosu’s journey is one deeply rooted in service and humility. From his early years, he showed signs of a man destined to uplift others rather than pursue only personal ambitions. His leadership is not anchored on the usual struggles for power or influence but on a sincere desire to make society better. In every capacity he has served, Ugwumba has left behind testimonies of integrity and selfless contribution. His open-heartedness toward both the mighty and the lowly reflects the Igbo adage that “a good man is not known by his wealth but by his deeds.”

One of the hallmarks of Ugwumba’s life is his philanthropy. Beyond politics or social status, he has consistently demonstrated a heart for giving and sharing. He has sponsored educational programs, empowered youths with entrepreneurial support, and provided relief for widows and the less privileged. For him, true wealth lies not in accumulation but in distribution, ensuring that others rise along with him. Such gestures have earned him not only respect but also deep affection from communities across Imo State and beyond.

Leadership in today’s society often comes with challenges of trust, but Ugwumba Uche Nwosu has proven that good leaders can still exist. His style of leadership is one that combines vision with compassion. He believes that governance should not be about titles or positions but about tangible impacts in the lives of people. Those who have encountered him describe him as approachable, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their welfare. This rare trait sets him apart as a model of the true meaning of ezigbo mmadụ.

Furthermore, Ugwumba is a man of peace. He is not known for bitterness, division, or unnecessary conflicts. Rather, he uses his influence to bridge divides, reconcile differences, and foster unity wherever he finds himself. This is in line with Igbo values that celebrate individuals who preserve harmony within the community. To be an ezigbo mmadụ is to be a peacemaker, and Ugwumba has consistently lived up to this calling.

Ugwumba Uche Nwosu is not just a man of influence; he is an embodiment of ezigbo mmadụ. His kindness, philanthropy, humility, and peace-loving nature make him a shining example of the Igbo ideal of a good man. In a society where many pursue self-interest, Ugwumba reminds us that greatness lies in selflessness, and true honor comes from service to humanity.

Wilson Amaefule is a Public Affairs Analyst and writes from Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu Local Government Area. 

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has ordered the arrest of security operatives involved in the shooting near Emeka Offor Plaza, Onitsha Main Market. At least one person died after task force operatives opened fire in a market in Anambra state on Tuesday.

Shortly after the incident, Soludo directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution, and that the medical needs of those who sustained injuries be taken care of. This was disclosed in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.

Mefor said the Anambra State Government was aware of the disturbance that occurred at the market. “We appreciate the swift intervention of the Police, who have restored calm and order to the area. An investigation into the incident has commenced, and the government will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” he stated. “Regrettably, one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead on arrival. Her body has been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation. The other victims are currently receiving treatment and are responding positively.

“Meanwhile, Mr Governor has directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution, and for the medical needs of those who sustained injuries to be taken care of.

“Normalcy has since been restored in the area by the Police, while patrols and monitoring continue by law enforcement agents to ensure sustained peace.”

The Operation Clean And Healthy Anambra Brigade, otherwise known as “OCHA Brigade”, is a special enforcement unit created to enforce environmental and sanitation regulations in the state.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by a former senate president, David Mark. The confirmation which was displayed on the website of INEC on Wednesday.

The recognition came after an internal restructuring that resulted in the emergence of national officers to reposition the party further ahead of the 2027 general elections. Aside from Mark, who was appointed as the interim chairman, INEC listed a former Osun governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary. Other principal officers now officially recognised by the electoral body are a former Edo governor, Oserheimen Osunbor, as National Legal Adviser; Ibrahim Mani as National Treasurer, and Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary.

The opposition coalition officially adopted the ADC as it political platform on July 2, 2025, with the aim of contesting the presidential and other elections in 2027. The coalition said it was set to rescue the country from collapse and rebuild its democracy. “Let it be known to all that this coalition of national political opposition groups goes beyond gaining political power. It is a concerted effort to rebuild the crumbling pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.

“The mission is clear: Rescue Nigeria. Rebuild Nigeria. Return power to the people,” said Mark. The former leader of the senate alleged that the Federal Government led by the All Progressives Congress (APC) had hijacked all democratic institutions, and sent the country on a “creeping descent into total civilian dictatorship” in the last two years. Mark also said the current government was “consumed with politicking” and had abandoned governance.

“The blatant destabilisation and infiltration of all major opposition political parties is aimed at achieving only one objective: to enhance total state capture and leave Nigerians with no alternative or options in 2027. This coalition is to prevent our country’s descent into a one-party sadded. he added. 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faulted what it described as “premature” campaigns by political parties and candidates in the lead up to the 2027 elections. INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, who spoke at a One-Day Stakeholders’ Roundtable on Premature Political Campaigns organized by The Electoral Institute (TEI) at its headquarters in Abuja, highlighted the commission’s major challenge in tackling the issue: a gap in the electoral legal framework.

Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which stipulates the 150-day campaign period. Yakubu revealed that “there is no sanction whatsoever concerning breaches for campaigns earlier than 150 days to an election. Here lies the challenge for the Commission.” The INEC chief said the action, “undermine the Commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits as politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored.”

In his keynote address at the event, a former INEC chairman, Attahiru Jega described premature campaigns as a “serious threat to elections” that “undermine the integrity of the entire electoral process.” Jega was particularly critical of the use of third-party groups and incumbent officials. The former INEC chief said, “premature election campaigns are actually being perpetrated by premature democrats,” and proposed that “all candidates and their parties, and especially incumbent office holders and their political parties, should be vicariously held responsible and penalized for premature campaigns for them by third parties.”

The roundtable featured presentations from the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, the Inspector General of Police, and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), alongside contributions from the IPAC Chairman. Meanwhile, INEC has recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by a former senate president, David Mark.

The development was displayed on the INEC website which indicated Mark as the party’s chairman. The recognition came after an internal restructuring that resulted in the emergence of national officers to reposition the party further ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

The Orlu Renaissance Movement, a rising socio-political platform committed to advocating for good governance, accountability, and community development, has announced the appointment of Comr. Wilson Amaefule as its new Coordinator.

Mr. Wilson, a respected political commentator from Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu Local Government Area, brings to this role years of consistent engagement in political discourse and advocacy for policies that uplift the lives of ordinary people. Known for his courage in speaking truth to power, he has carved a reputation as a voice of reason and conscience within the Orlu zone and beyond.

The Orlu Renaissance Movement, comprising dedicated sons and daughters of Orlu Zone was founded to unite progressive minds towards a common vision of Integrity, Justice, and Development. With Comr. Wilson at the helm, the movement aims to deepen civic awareness, encourage citizens’ participation in governance, and hold leaders accountable to their promises.

In his acceptance speech, Comr. Wilson Amaefule emphasized that leadership is about service, sacrifice, and sincerity. He pledged to steer the Orlu Renaissance Movement as a platform that amplifies the people’s voices and ensures that the collective interests of the zone remain the priority.

“The era of silence is over,” Comr. Wilson declared. “We must rise above divisive politics and chart a course for good governance, unity, and prosperity in Orlu land. Our people deserve better, and the Orlu Renaissance Movement will work tirelessly to demand and achieve it.”

The announcement has been met with excitement among Stakeholders, Youths, and Community Leaders, who see Wilson’s emergence as a turning point for renewed advocacy and genuine leadership in the region.

INEC says over 505,906 Nigerians completed online pre-registration for the Continuous Voter Registration within five days of its resumption. Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the turnout as proof of citizens’ commitment to democracy.

The physical phase begins August 25 across 811 centres nationwide, where biometrics will be captured. INEC also launched sensitisation campaigns urging eligible citizens, especially youths and first-time voters, to register and secure their PVCs. 

The Abia State government has dismissed claims that it spent ₦7bn on Smart Schools, calling the reports false. Special Adviser on Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, clarified that a July 12 contract for 20 Green Smart Schools costs less than ₦7bn, with School Road Primary School, Umuahia, as the pilot. 

He said phase one is completed, while phase two is delayed by drainage works. The schools will feature renewable energy, smart boards, digital tablets, CCTV, and AI-driven learning. 

The Federal Government has said that the Kaduna–Kano Standard Gauge Rail Line is scheduled for completion by 2026. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced this in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Idris also shared the update on the government’s infrastructure project drive.

Echoing this assurance, the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, disclosed that the project had recorded significant progress under the President Bola Tinubu-led administration. According to him, when President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, the Kaduna–Kano railway project was at 15 per cent completion. However, he said the figure has now risen to 53 per cent.

Alkali also revealed that funding had been secured through a bilateral agreement with the Government of China to accelerate the pace of work on the rail line. This funding, he said, is expected to help fast-track the delivery of the project and ensure its completion as promised. The Kano-Kaduna railway, with a total length of 203 kilometres, is a standard-gauge railway.

Once completed, it is expected to provide direct rail connectivity between Kano and Abuja. The China Development Bank (CDB) had in January 2025 granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) for the construction of the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria.

According to a statement by the bank, the move was to provide financial support for the smooth progress of the project. 

Former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose has endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second terms ahead of the 2027 elections. 

Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, Fayose, a PDP member, praised their performance and leadership, saying his support transcends party lines. He also hailed political unity in the state and challenged Oyebanji to match his past electoral sweep of all 16 LGAs and 177 wards. 

The University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has bestowed a Doctor of Science Honourary Degree on Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, the wife of President Bola Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and others.

Wike and Tinubu received the award at the university’s 50th Anniversary and 35th Convocation on Saturday. The lecture topic for the day was ‘The Role of Universities in Nation Building’.

Other recipients of the Honourary Degree include: Aminu Masari (Chairman of TETFund), and Umaru Fintiri (Governor of Adamawa State).

The Senate has approved President Bola Tinubu’s $21.19bn foreign loan request, along with €4bn, ¥15bn, and a $65m grant to fund the 2025 Appropriation Act. 

The package includes ₦757bn in domestic borrowing and a $2bn foreign-currency instrument. Lawmakers stressed the loans are concessional, tied to infrastructure and development projects, including $3bn for the Eastern Rail Corridor. Concerns over transparency and equitable distribution were raised. 

The Nigerian Senate will hold a special session Wednesday to honour former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died on July 13 in London at age 82. 

The tribute will reflect on his leadership and national contributions. Buhari served as military head of state (1983–1985) and civilian president (2015–2023).

The House of Representatives has approved a ₦105.14 billion budget for the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) for 2025. 

The budget includes ₦20.6bn for personnel, ₦8.9bn for overheads, and ₦75.5bn for capital projects. Chairman James Faleke said the committee found the proposal satisfactory and pledged strict oversight on implementation. 

The Presidency has lashed out at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its statement accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of exploiting the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari for political gains.

The ADC had on Friday accused the Tinubu’s administration of exploiting the death of Buhari to whitewash its image. But reacting to the allegation, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, described the opposition party’s claims as “shameless” and “obnoxious.” He specifically accused the opposition party and its leading figures of “disrespecting Buhari and dancing on his grave for relevance.”

“Let it be said clearly: the ADC is the one exploiting Buhari’s death for political attention, not this government. “From Atiku and El-Rufai’s choreographed arrival in Daura — greeted with chants seeking to make political capital from the solemnity of the moment — to this disgraceful press statement, the ADC has shown itself to be utterly shameless. 

“The burial of former President Buhari was conducted with the complete honour befitting a leader of his stature. That is why world leaders showed up, millions of Nigerians tuned in on television and across social media, and even ADC promoters were falling over themselves in Daura, prancing about the Buhari family compound like eager real estate agents scouting new territory,” Dare said.

Dare then called on Nigerians to ignore the “political noise from an outfit gasping for attention”. 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Muhammad Babangida, son of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, as Managing Director of the restructured Bank of Agriculture.

Seven others were also appointed:

-Lydia Kalat Musa – Chair, Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA)

-Jamilu Wada Aliyu – Chair, National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC)

-Hon. Yahuza Ado Inuwa – Chair, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)

-Sanusi Musa (SAN) – Chair, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR)

-Prof. Al-Mustapha Aliyu – DG, Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA)

-Sanusi Garba Rikiji – DG, Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN)

-Mrs. Tomi Somefun – MD, Hydro-Electric Power Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC)

-Dr. Abdulmumini Aminu-Zaria – Executive Director, Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC) 

ADC Interim Chairman David Mark has warned that the current government may use the judiciary to derail the party’s momentum ahead of the 2027 elections. 

He made the claim during a meeting with the party’s legal team, which includes 310 lawyers nationwide. Mark urged Nigerians to support the ADC as a credible alternative.