Politics
Between the leaked PDP deal, nullified primaries and Amosun’s riposte
Between the leaked PDP deal, nullified primaries and Amosun’s riposte
By Kunle Somorin
Aesop’s, the legendary Greek man of Fables fame must have had the 2023 Ogun State Gubernatorial election in mind when he penned “The Milkmaid and Her Pail.” According to the didactic literato, a milkmaid had been out to milk the cows and was returning from the field with the magnificent milk pail balanced nicely on her head. As she walked along, her pretty head was busy with plans for the days to come.
“This good, rich milk,” she mused, “will give me plenty of cream to churn. The butter I make I will take to market, and with the money I get for it I will buy a lot of eggs for hatching. How nice it will be when they are all hatched and the yard is full of fine young chicks. Then when
May Day comes I will sell them, and with the money I’ll buy a lovely new dress to wear to the fair. All the young men will look at me. They will come and try to make love to me, but I shall very quickly send them about their business!”
As she thought of how she would settle that matter, she tossed her head scornfully, and down fell the pail of milk to the ground. And all the milk spilled out, and with the butter and eggs and chicks and new dress and all the milkmaid’s pride!
So it happened when Justice O. O. Oguntoyibo nullified all the primaries conducted by the People’s Democratic Party in the state because they were not in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act and with the clincher that the Independent National Electoral Commission should cease from recognising Ladi Adebutu as the governorship candidate of the party in the state. Before now like the milkmaid in Aesop tale, the supposed flagbearer, his running mates and their promoters have been counting their chickens before they are hatched – sharing portfolios and spoils of office even before the contest for office, from where the spoils of would emanate, began.
It is no longer news that last week, a document had surfaced in the Nigerian media space, which revealed a power-sharing agreement between the now disqualified Ogun State governorship candidate of the PDP, Oladipupo Adebutu, and his running mate, Abdul Kabir Akinlade. The seven-page agreement, titled, “Alliance Agreement between Hon. Oladipupo Olatunde Adebutu and Hon. Adekunle AbdulKabir Akinlade in respect of the 2023 Election Into the Offices of Governor, Deputy Governor, Related Elective Positions and Appointment in Ogun State”, was dated September 16, 2022.
The document was signed by both Adebutu and Akinlade, and confirmed by an oath at the High Court of Ogun State, Abeokuta, while Sikirulai Ogundele, the state PDP chairman and one Hon. Tola Banjo signed as witnesses to the parties respectively.
The agreement, among other provisions, ceded the role of Commissioner for Trade and Industry to the deputy governorship candidate, in addition to seven substantive commissioner slots, 15 Special Adviser slots, 20 Senior Special Assistant slots, 20 Special Assistant slots; five Statutory Board Chairman slots and five local government executive chairman slots conceded to the Allied People’s Movement (APM) and factional All Progressive Congress camp, should Adebutu emerge as the winner of the governorship election come 2023.
“In furtherance of Clause A and B hereinabove, Hon. Adekunle AbdulKabir Akinlade shall mobilise and deploy his political capital, groups, and other resources toward the successful emergence of all the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly to the office of the Governor in Ogun State.
“Hon Adekunle AbdulKabir Akinlade shall equally support, assist, and promote the political interests of Hon (Dr) Oladipupo Olatunde Adebutu and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at all times.
“All actions, moves, and strategies made by the parties pursuant to the realization of this Agreement shall be made in good faith without any intention to unduly deprive the interests, rights, or benefits or either party.
“Each party shall not be a party to any other agreement that would restrict the Parties’ ability to perform any or all of their obligations as set forth in this Agreement.
“This Agreement shall be binding on the parties and amendment; supplement or modification can only be made by way of supplementary Alliance Agreement which shall be jointly and duly executed by the parties herein.
“In the event of any dispute between the parties with reference to the agreement or any matter arising hereunder, the parties shall resolve same by amicable negotiations.
“This Agreement shall be governed by and intercepted in accordance with the Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“In Witness Whereof, the parties hereto have caused this Alliance Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first set forth above”, the alliance agreement submitted,” the agreement read.
Curiously, a similar agreement was reached in 2019, when deputy governorship candidacy, as well as Ogun West senatorial ticket and two State House of Assembly tickets in Ogun Central, were conceded to the same APC/APM group loyal to a former governor of the state, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun.
While power-sharing agreements among political groups, individuals and interests are not unheard of in a democracy, some experts argue that this particular one signed between the Ogun State PDP and the APC/APM group backed by Sen Amosun reeks desperation to stave off self-inflicted immolation and preservation of the political self-interest of a few.
Of specific interest is the provision of the Section B of the agreement, which compels the creation of a new portfolio just for Akinlade, who “shall be appointed as the Honorable Commissioner for Trade and Investment in a ministry that shall be created to drive investments, improved revenue growth and development of the state. Provided that the deputy governor shall report directly to the executive governor in accordance with extant laws in relation to his official duties and functions of his office as Deputy Governor and Honorable Commissioner for Trade and Investment.”
It is interesting to note that Akinlade was once fired from a revenue yielding portfolio for acts unbecoming of a holder of such a sensitive office when he was appointed Senior Special Assistant in the first term of Amosun who is now disowning him and distancing himself from the retrogressive political wannabe from Ipokia,
Fair enough, Amosun has denied any knowledge of the leaked document signed by Adebutu and his loyalist, Akinlade, saying that the report was false and was only aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Bola Adeyemi, on September 25, Amosun advised the public to dismiss the report. “This story is nothing more than a mischief to mislead the public and discredit the hard-earned reputation of the former governor of Ogun State. We have stated before and wish to state once again, categorically, without any fear of contradiction that, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has nothing to do with the PDP in Ogun State. And he is not a party to any alliance formed with anyone or group of persons in the party,” the statement read.
However, Amosun’s reputation for anti-party activities continues to fuel suspicion about his connection with both the APC/APM group and the agreement between Adebutu and Akinlade. Recall that, in March 2019, the national working committee (NWC) of APC suspended Amosun, the then governor of Ogun over anti-party activities. The NWC of the party further recommended the expulsion of Amosun from the APC for “brazen anti-party activities” for supporting a different candidate for the governorship election in Ogun, despite the APC fielding the incumbent governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as its candidate.
Amosun publicly mobilised support for Akinlade, as governorship candidate as a member of APM.
Amosun was also heavily criticised in February 2019, when he flooded an APC presidential rally in Abeokuta with APM supporters. The incident almost turned violent, as the APM mob threw stones and other dangerous objects at President Muhammadu Buhari.
What’s more, at the commemoration the 50th anniversary of the Abeokuta Club in August, Amosun told journalists that he was not in support of Abiodun’s administration, saying that the governor must vacate his seat at the expiration of his first four-year term. “Just wait, very soon, you will hear where we are going next. Clearly, you know my stand, and my stand is my stand. I am not supporting this administration that is there now. He must be removed,” he said.
He also assured his supporters that his next line of action would soon be made public. Could this leaked agreement between the PDP and his loyalist be Amosun’s next line of action?
When Gov. Abiodun defeated Akinlade to emerge governor in 2019, Amosun instructed his supporters not to engage in a war of words with the government until after three years. However, he continues to discredit Abiodun and runs a parallel APC machinery in the state, along with the support of his APM surrogates.
In October 2021, he spearheaded a parallel state congress at the Ake palace ground, where Chief Derin Adebiyi emerged as state chairman. However, the mainstream of the party in the state, which had the governor of the state as leader, had its congress at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta. The election, which was conducted under the supervision of a 7-man state congress committee led by Chief Wale Ohu, produced Chief Yemi Sanusi as the state chairman of the party.
As expected, the national leadership of the party recognised Prince Abiodun’s bloc. As the political arena witnesses bustling activities, there are bound to be alignments and realignments by individuals and groups. The worry, however, is the extent to which political actors could undermine collective interests in pursuit of selfish interests. Whether connected with Amosun or not, that is what the Ogun leaked agreement has shown and what the court judgment has put paid to.
• Somorin writes in from Abeokuta
APC Group Slams Defence Minister Badaru Over Bye-Election Loss, Demands Resignation
The Concerned Jigawa APC Forum (CJAF) has issued a scathing rebuke of the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, branding his performance in the recent Garki-Babura Federal Constituency bye-election as a “catastrophic political failure” and a threat to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
In a strongly worded press statement, the group demanded Badaru’s immediate resignation, citing his inability to secure votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his home polling unit and ward as evidence of his dwindling political influence.
The bye-election, held on August 17, 2025, saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deliver a stunning defeat to the APC at Badaru’s polling unit (001) in Babura Kofar Arewa Primary School, Jigawa State, with the PDP securing 308 votes to the APC’s 112.
The loss extended to Badaru’s ward, where the PDP also dominated at the polling unit of his ally, Minister of State for Education, Mrs. Suwaiba Ahmad, winning 184 votes to the APC’s 22.
The CJAF highlighted reports of Badaru’s supposed allies celebrating the PDP’s victories, raising concerns about disloyalty within his camp and suggesting active sabotage against the APC.
“After eight years as Jigawa’s governor and two years as a federal minister, Badaru’s inability to deliver for the APC in his home base exposes him as a political liability,” said Alhaji Usman Tanko, President of the CJAF.
“His allies’ jubilation over PDP wins confirms he is no longer on the ground in Jigawa, and his continued presence in the cabinet risks dragging President Tinubu’s administration into disrepute.”
Despite the APC’s overall victory in the constituency, with candidate Mukhtar Rabi’u Garki securing 38,449 votes against the PDP’s 13,519, the CJAF credited Governor Umar Namadi’s effective governance and grassroots support for salvaging the win.
The group’s statement warned that Badaru’s failure in a key APC stronghold like Jigawa signals a dangerous erosion of support in the North West, a critical region for the party’s national ambitions.
The CJAF passed a vote of no confidence in Badaru, declaring him unfit to represent the APC or hold high office.
“Badaru’s collapse in a stronghold like Jigawa signals a dangerous erosion of APC support in the North West, a critical region for the party’s national ambitions,” Tanko added.
“His continued presence in the cabinet risks dragging the Tinubu administration into further disrepute, as his allies’ flirtations with the PDP threaten to fracture party unity.
“We demand that Badaru resign immediately as Minister of Defence. His abysmal track record and inability to add value to the APC in Jigawa, the North West, or nationally make his position untenable.
“While he may maintain a personal friendship with Mr. President, Nigeria’s interests supersede any individual’s ambitions. The country is bigger than Badaru, and it is time for him to step aside and allow fresh, capable leadership to bolster the APC’s prospects.
“His resignation is not just a necessity for Jigawa but a critical step to safeguard the party’s chances in 2027.
“We commend Governor Namadi for his steadfast leadership and urge INEC to maintain the integrity of the electoral process, as demonstrated in the peaceful and transparent conduct of the bye-election.
“The people of Jigawa have spoken, and their rejection of Badaru’s influence is a clarion call for accountability. The APC must act decisively to restore trust and secure its future, both in Jigawa and across Nigeria.”
Politics
Bye-Election: Stop Gov Lawal, Aides’ Assault on Zamfara’s Democracy – Group Tells INEC, Security Operatives
Bye-Election: Stop Gov Lawal, Aides’ Assault on Zamfara’s Democracy – Group Tells INEC, Security Operatives
The Coalition of Zamfara Patriots (CZP) has accused Governor Dauda Lawal of orchestrating a “tyrannical assault” on democracy during the recent Kaura-Namoda South Constituency bye-election, which was declared inconclusive by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a press statement, the group condemned Lawal’s alleged use of state-backed vigilantes and hired thugs to intimidate voters, describing his actions as a desperate bid to cling to power amid a failing tenure.
The bye-election, held on August 16, 2025, followed the death of Hon. Aminu Ibrahim Kasuwar Daji, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Hon. Kamilu Sa’idu Kasuwar Daji, securing 7,001 votes against the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 5,339.
The CZP hailed the result as a “resounding referendum” on Lawal’s leadership, which they branded as a “catastrophic tenure” marked by corruption, vindictive politics, and under-development.
The election was declared inconclusive due to irregularities in five polling units in Sakajiki and Kyambarawa wards, with a supplementary poll scheduled for August 21.
According to the CZP, Lawal’s administration resorted to thuggery and voter intimidation to manipulate the outcome, with reports circulating on social platforms about state-backed vigilantes terrorizing voters in the affected wards.
“This is not leadership—it is gangsterism,” the group declared in a statement signed by Comrade Yusuf Dayda accusing Lawal of treating Zamfara as his “personal fiefdom” through actions like the unlawful suspension of state assembly members and interference with the judiciary.
The coalition demanded that INEC declare the APC candidate the winner, arguing that the 1,662-vote margin clearly reflects the will of the people.
They warned against any attempts to use the supplementary election to distort the outcome, urging the electoral body to resist pressure from Lawal’s camp.
“The people of Kaura-Namoda South have rejected his oppressive rule, and he must accept defeat with dignity,” the statement read.
The CZP also called on security agencies, civil society, and the international community to closely monitor the August 21 supplementary election to ensure transparency.
They cautioned that any further attempts to undermine the electorate’s will could plunge Zamfara into chaos, emphasizing that the state’s citizens would resist any manipulation “with resolute resistance.”
FALEKE: Understanding Trust and Loyalty in Leadership
By William Ochonu
Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke stands as a towering figure of loyalty and transformative leadership, his name etched in the annals of Nigeria’s history for his unwavering commitment to public service. Faleke’s career radiates strategic brilliance and selfless dedication.
As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s steadfast ally, his pivotal leadership in the 2023 presidential campaign and resolute embrace of the Renewed Hope Agenda have solidified his title as the “dependable ally.” Through his sharp legislative insight, profound humility, and remarkable ability to unite diverse stakeholders, Faleke not only drives Nigeria’s progress but also forges a lasting legacy of trust and sacrifice, paving the way for a united and prosperous future.
Born on December 25, 1959, in Ekinrin Adde, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, Chief Faleke has built a remarkable career defined by dedication, integrity, and loyalty. Rt. Hon. Faleke’s political journey began with his appointment as the pioneer Executive Secretary of Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, a role he held from 2003 to 2004. His diligent service earned him the trust of the people, who subsequently elected him as the substantive chairman of the LCDA for two tenures, serving until 2011.
In 2011, Rt. Hon. Faleke was elected to represent Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, a position he has held with distinction. His legislative contributions, marked by insightful debates and impactful work, have been notable. He has served as Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, National Ethics and Values, and later as Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, earning widespread respect for his commitment to public service.
Rt. Hon. Faleke’s exemplary performance, patriotism, and steadfast support for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) culminated in his appointment as the National Secretary of the APC Presidential Campaign Council for the 2023 election. His strategic leadership and dedication were pivotal to the campaign’s success.
If a new word were to be added to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary as a synonym for loyalty, it would undoubtedly be Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke. His unwavering faithfulness to President Tinubu is legendary, comparable to few in Nigeria’s political history. For instance, the bond between Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of Northern Nigeria, and Alhaji Maitama Sule, a close associate, exemplified such loyalty.
Maitama Sule’s dedication to Bello’s vision for Northern Nigeria mirrors the commitment Faleke demonstrates. Similarly, Anthony Enahoro’s unwavering loyalty to Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s ideals reflects the same steadfast allegiance Faleke shows toward Tinubu’s vision.
In the complex dynamics of principal-agent relationships in politics, where loyalty can waver amid power and wealth, Rt. Hon. Faleke remains a beacon of trust and dependability. His loyalty to President Tinubu has been proven time and again, most notably through his strategic and decisive contributions to Tinubu’s emergence as president during the 2022–2023 campaign. Despite daunting challenges, criticism, and opposition, Faleke’s resolute support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has earned him the moniker “dependable ally” and “workhorse” from the President himself.
Faleke’s commitment is further reflected in his alignment with Tinubu’s governance priorities, including transparency, anti-corruption, and youth empowerment. As Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, he has consistently championed these ideals, demonstrating his belief in the President’s vision through his public stands and legislative efforts.
A man of integrity and reliability, Faleke has never taken his decades-long relationship with President Tinubu for granted. Instead, he has worked tirelessly as a servant of the President’s agenda, prioritizing empowerment, inclusivity, and teamwork. His leadership style mirrors Tinubu’s, reflecting a shared commitment to building a united and progressive team without pursuing personal political ambitions.
Faleke’s trustworthy demeanor has inspired confidence in others, who rely on his sense of responsibility, compassion, and understanding. His humility and approachable nature have become a source of strength, drawing many to President Tinubu’s camp. By valuing others’ input and consistently following through on commitments, Faleke has earned respect and built a strong track record as a leader.
Strategically aligned with President Tinubu’s vision, Faleke’s legislative contributions and innovative insights make him an effective confidant and advisor. His ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver results has solidified his reputation as a dependable leader. President Tinubu trusts Faleke’s judgment, often seeking his counsel on critical issues, leveraging his deep experience to shape policies and decisions.
Faleke’s emotional intelligence, humility, and collaborative spirit have positioned him as a vital bridge between President Tinubu and various stakeholders. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds has earned him recognition as a unifying force in Nigerian politics. His tireless work ethic and passion for results underscore his commitment to public service.
Indeed, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke has proven beyond doubt that he is willing to go to great lengths for President Tinubu. As a kingmaker in Abuja, he works relentlessly to achieve results, embodying the essence of trust and loyalty in leadership.
Ochonu is a public affairs analyst writing from Abuja.
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