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Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat.

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Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat. By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com

Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com

In a country bruised by decades of misgovernance, economic sabotage and elite manipulation, one would assume that any attempt to salvage the democratic space through coalition-building would be celebrated. Unfortunately, that is not the case in Nigeria. What we are witnessing is not a democratic government promoting political plurality, but a ruling regime that has become allergic to dissent and terrified of unity among the opposition.

The fear is EVIDENT. The panic is LOUD. The desperation is SHAMELESS.

The recent waves of government-led intimidation, including the bullying of event centres meant to host the official unveiling of the opposition coalition and the curious emergence of factional crises within the newly adopted platform, are nothing short of coordinated political sabotage. These are not coincidences; they are state-sponsored tactics driven by an irrational fear of being held accountable in 2027.

Why the Fear?
The question on every conscious Nigerian’s lips is simple: Why is the APC government so scared of this coalition?

It is because, for the first time since 2015, Nigerians from all walks of Life (market traders, students, civil servants, religious leaders and even former APC loyalists) are beginning to find hope in something that is not wrapped in a broom. The coalition, despite its imperfections, is perceived as a potential people’s movement not just a merger of political interests. That frightens the cabal that currently profits from Nigeria’s status quo.

This coalition represents a direct threat to the monopolistic control APC has over Nigeria’s electoral machinery, state resources and security institutions. A united opposition disrupts the illusion of invincibility the APC has built over time, especially since it has used defections and factionalism as tools to divide and conquer any opposing force.

Bullying Tactics: A Hallmark of a Dying Regime.
It is a tale as old as African politics; when an authoritarian-leaning government sees its grip slipping, it doesn’t tighten its belt; it reaches for the baton. From pressuring event centres to cancel bookings, to using the Department of State Services (DSS) and police to intimidate political opponents, the APC is clearly exhibiting what Chinua Achebe called “the MADNESS of the FALLING TREE.”

This regime thrives on chaos. If it cannot CO-OPT you, it will CRUSH you. If it cannot DIVIDE you, it will DEMONIZE you. If it cannot DISCREDIT you, it will FABRICATE a crisis within your ranks.

The emergence of new factions in the opposition party barely 48 hours after the coalition’s unveiling is suspect. As former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu once warned, “Nigerian politics is not just a game of INTEREST; it is a game of INFILTRATION.” These factions do not represent ideological disagreements; they are symptoms of a larger plan to weaken the coalition before it gains grassroots traction.

A Regime Built on Fear, Not Performance.
The APC government’s paranoia is not baseless, it is earned. Under its watch, Nigeria has become the global capital of poverty, food insecurity has skyrocketed and insecurity continues to claim lives daily. The fuel subsidy removal was done with the swiftness of a dictator’s pen but without a sustainable economic cushion for the people. Naira devaluation has made basic commodities unaffordable. Foreign investors are fleeing. Universities are constantly on strike; and now, they borrow to pay salaries in most states.

According to data from the Debt Management Office (DMO), the Buhari administration left a debt burden of ₦48 trillion. In just two years, President Tinubu has doubled it to ₦96 trillion, without providing basic subsidies for education, transportation, health or fuel. This level of borrowing (combined with hyper-inflation and high unemployment) has made the APC extremely vulnerable to voter revolt in 2027. Hence, the coalition must not be allowed to breathe.

Senator Shehu Sani said it best: “The APC is not afraid of the opposition’s incompetence; it is afraid of the opposition’s unity.”

Defections Mean Nothing Without Will-power.
One may argue that almost all state governors are defecting to the APC, thus neutralizing the threat posed by the opposition. However, this assumption fails to recognize that in today’s Nigeria, party loyalty no longer means ideological alignment, it means self-preservation. Most of these defectors are driven by fear of EFCC investigations or the desire to secure second-term tickets, not any genuine love for APC.

Moreover, Nigerian voters are more politically aware today than in 2015. The #EndSARS generation is not silent anymore. The diaspora is mobilizing. The youth are watching. The citizens have seen what a united front like Labour Party could achieve even without deep structures. Imagine what a real coalition with grassroots presence, electoral agents and shared manifesto could do in 2027.

As political analyst Jide Ojo notes, “The 2023 elections broke the myth that only the ruling party can win. It showed that with passion, coordination and purpose, the so-called political giants can be retired.”

The Strategy of Intimidation Will Backfire.
By trying to suffocate the coalition in its infancy, the APC is planting the seeds of its own downfall. History has shown us that popular movements are strengthened by oppression. The African National Congress (ANC) in apartheid South Africa, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) in Zimbabwe, and even NADECO in Nigeria, all thrived under government intimidation.

Trying to destabilize a people’s project with DSS & EFCC intimidation and political faction creation only gives it more attention and moral legitimacy.

Governor Nyesom Wike once said, “You cannot be in government and still behave like an opposition. You have all the instruments of governance. Use them to govern, not to persecute.” Sadly, the APC behaves like a wounded opposition even while holding power.

A Call to the Nigerian People.
This moment is bigger than parties or coalitions. This is a fight for Nigeria’s democratic soul. The coalition may not be perfect, but it is currently the only serious alternative that the APC fears. That alone is worth defending. Let the people (especially the youth) rally around the idea, not just the personalities. Let the agenda (not just the anthem) be revolutionary.

We must not allow this moment to be stolen by the usual games of betrayal, bribery and internal sabotage. The price of failure is too high. Nigerians must recognize that this government’s obsession with crushing the coalition is not about protecting the people; it’s about protecting the looters of the future.

In Summary
The APC government’s fear of the coalition is not rooted in morality but in survival. They know what they’ve done. They know what they’ve failed to do and they know that a united opposition armed with the people’s voice is the one thing that could end their reign.

To quote the late Dora Akunyili: “You cannot cover a smoke with bare hands.”

The more the APC tries to suppress the coalition, the more obvious their guilt becomes. Nigerians must rise and defend this window of change, before it’s too late.

Fear, Fractions and Factions: Why the APC Government Fears the Coalition More Than an Election Defeat.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com

Written by George Omagbemi Sylvester
Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com

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COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION

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COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION

COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION

 

University of Abuja SUG President Unveils 6-Day Programme Focused on Leadership, Innovation, Culture, and Student Unity

 

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The President of the Students’ Union Government, University of Abuja, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO) has officially unveiled the schedule of activities for SUG WEEK 2026, scheduled to hold from 18th to 23rd May, 2026, at the University of Abuja.

 

In an official release to the general public, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu stated that this year’s edition is designed as a comprehensive student engagement and development programme aimed at promoting leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, culture, intellectual interaction, entertainment, sportsmanship, and social integration within the university community.

 

COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION

 

“SUG Week 2026 is not merely a celebration, but a reflection of purposeful student leadership and the collective spirit of the University of Abuja student community, ”Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu said. “I encourage every student to participate actively, represent their faculties and departments positively, and make the most of this platform for growth and unity.”

 

Building on a Record of Student-Centred Governance

Under the leadership of Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu, the current administration, has introduced several initiatives to improve student engagement and institutional representation. These include the unveiling of the official SUG Website, presentation of SUG Buses, development of strategic partnerships, presentation of the SUG Magazine, and various welfare and empowerment-driven programmes.

With the approval and support of University Management led by the Vice-Chancellor, *Prof. Abdulhakeem Fawehinmi Babatunde*, SUG Week 2026 has been structured to provide students with opportunities for networking, creativity, intellectual participation, relaxation, and campus-wide unity.

`

SUG WEEK 2026 Schedule of Activities

Day 1 – Monday, 18th May: Corporate Day
Official Launch & Unveiling
1. Official Unveiling of the SUG Website
2. Presentation and Commissioning of the SUG Buses
3. Presentation of the SUG Magazine
4. Award Presentation Ceremony
5. Leadership and Innovation Summit
6. Networking Session

The opening ceremony will feature distinguished personalities, public office holders, institutional stakeholders, business leaders, and guests from across the country.

Day 2 – Tuesday, 19th May: Old School Day
Inter-Faculty Debate Competition
A day dedicated to celebrating culture, creativity, and intellectual engagement through vintage-themed appearances and an inter-faculty debate competition.

Day 3 – Wednesday, 20th May: Jersey Day
Sports & Health Awareness
Focus on fitness, wellness, sportsmanship, and health awareness through sporting activities, recreational engagements, and sensitisation programmes.

Day 4 – Thursday, 21st May: Denim Day
Career & Entrepreneurship Day
Empowering students with career development opportunities, entrepreneurship knowledge, mentorship, networking, and innovation-driven discussions.

Day 5 – Friday, 22nd May: Fashion Show Day
Fashion Display & Runway Experience
Students will showcase creativity, talent, fashion expression, and entertainment through runway displays and coordinated fashion activities.

Day 6 – Saturday, 23rd May: Fake Wedding / Owambe Finale
Grand Finale
The grand social and cultural finale brings students together through music, culture, fashion, food, entertainment, and social interaction.

Call to Action
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu and the Students’ Union Government encourage all students to take part in the week’s activities and uphold the spirit of unity and excellence that defines the University of Abuja.

Students interested in volunteering, participating, partnering, sponsoring, modelling, or engaging in any activity are advised to send a direct message to the Union through the provided contacts.

For Sponsorship and Partnership: +234 810 593 0335

Signed:
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO)
President, Students’ Union Government (SUG)
University of Abuja

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REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE

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REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE.

REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE.

 

 

The recent publication titled “Enugu Nursing College Faces Backlash for Using DSS, Police to Intimidate Student Nurse for Exposing Oppression” is a clear attempt to sensationalize a matter that is already before lawful authorities and to deliberately further tarnish the image of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences through emotional propaganda, half-truths, and social media trial.

 

For the avoidance of
doubt, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies are constitutional institutions established by law to investigate complaints, establish facts, preserve public order, and ensure justice. Their involvement in any matter does not amount to intimidation. Rather, it reflects the lawful pathway for resolving allegations, especially where there are claims of cyber-bullying, defamation, unauthorized recordings, false publications, and dissemination of misleading information capable of damaging institutional reputation and public confidence.

 

REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE.

It is therefore surprising that intellectually poor bloggers and such individuals who continuously make public allegations on social media suddenly describe lawful invitations by security agencies as “oppression.” One cannot publish accusations, circulate inflammatory contents online, mobilize public outrage, and then reject legal scrutiny when called upon to substantiate those claims before competent authorities.

Mr. Francis Nwapa and those behind these coordinated media attacks should understand that social media is not a courtroom, and activism requires truths and fairness that must not place anyone above the law. If allegations have been made publicly against Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences and its leadership, then the proper and civilized response is to appear before the relevant authorities and provide evidence to substantiate such claims instead of resorting to media blackmail and emotional manipulation.

The attempt to portray every lawful investigation as victimisation is both irresponsible and dangerous. Security agencies are not established to entertain sentiments or online noise; they are empowered to determine truth from falsehood through a due process.
Or could it be that Mr.Francis Nwapa and his cohorts assume themselves untouchable and above the law, even when they churn out lies and deceits against legally established institutions on social media? If Nwapa claims to be the coordinator of Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), legal or illegitimate as it seems, should be able to know the duties of the DSS and the Police and accord them same respect. The group should know the law and its process. The group should have a learned legal profiled counsel to respond or educate their ignorance of the law. Needless to say that Mr. Francis Nwapa’s strategy of Cyber-bullying is a game the DSS and the police are so familiar with and cannot be cowed thereof.

The insinuation Mr. Nwapa made about transferring the case to Lagos for his convenience is baseless. He should have defined his jurisdiction before he went uncontrolled on social media space to write what he didnt understand. He should have asked questions on the location of the crime alleged. But, No. He went viral to disburse unfounded information which he claimed happened at a location he never knew. Now, he is being invited to Enugu where the alleged crime was committed, instead of yielding to the state of law, Francis is calling for public sympathy. He insinuates in the writing that investigation procedure be shifted to Lagos to accommodate his reporting ineptitude, rather than at Enugu where the petition and incidents took place. What a myopic view of the procedure! It is pertinent to note that the law does not recognize convenience.

Therefore, if invitations were extended by the DSS or Police, it is only proper for those involved to honour such invitations and clarify the numerous statements and allegations which they already circulated online.

Furthermore, it is important to remind the public that institutions have rules, ethical codes, and disciplinary procedures designed to protect professionalism, patient confidentiality, institutional integrity, and public trust. Unauthorized recording of patients, hospital environments, administrators, or internal communications and broadcasting them online without clearance may raise serious ethical and legal concerns, especially in professional healthcare training institutions.
It is also intellectually dishonest for certain groups to weaponize the current security challenges in Nigeria as an excuse to discredit lawful investigations.

The DSS and Police are capable of handling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, including investigating complaints relating to cyber harassment, defamation, false information, and conduct capable of inciting unrest. Mr. Francis, writing on his blog “Francis Nwapa Watch” on 15th of April called for proper investigation into the matter. The security agents yielded to that call and lunched investigations to establish the truth. Why is Mr. Nwapa afraid to dance the music he started beating its drums? Journalism is an age long profession practiced by men of seasoned value, honesty and integrity to uphold public truths. It is unfortune that Mr. Francis whose only known job is pest control and fumigation dabbled into a noble profession as journalism, untrained and unequipped to investigate truth before misinforming the public. More disheartening is that Francis might not know the huge negative impact he would be making to institutions and the public just because he afforded a cheap phone and data to post unverified information on blogs.

Dr. Gloria C. Bertram-Okoli and the management of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences have consistently demonstrated commitment to healthcare education, discipline, and institutional excellence. The college cannot and will not surrender its integrity to orchestrated campaigns of calumny or mob pressure driven by social media theatrics.

The public is therefore urged to disregard attempts to distort facts and to allow lawful authorities to carry out their constitutional duties without intimidation from activist groups seeking publicity. Justice is not established on Facebook posts, WhatsApp broadcasts, or media headlines, but through lawful investigation and evidence.

Meanwhile it is also contempt of the legal process as Mr. Nwapa continues to bully online and misinform the public about a matter which is already under investigation. The police had advised that all parties be invited to respond to questions.

The matter is being followed legally. Mr. Francis will do well to submit to legal procedure.

Those who have made allegations should courageously present their evidence before the appropriate authorities instead of portraying legitimate legal procedures as persecution. Truth does not fear investigation.
—Opinion—

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ONDO EAST-WEST FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY APC ADOPTS OTUNBA BOLA FISAYO

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ONDO EAST-WEST FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY APC ADOPTS OTUNBA BOLA FISAYO

 

Ahead of APC House of Representatives Election scheduled for Saturday 16th of May 2026, Ondo EAST-WEST Federal Constituency stakeholders have adopted Otunba Bola Olawafisayo as its flagbearer.

 

Rising from the stakeholders’ meeting held at Harmony Estate in Ondo city, a source close to Otunba Bola Olawafisayo disclosed that arrangements have been perfect and party members will formally adopt Otunba Bola Olawafisayo on Saturday the very day slated very for the primary.

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