Connect with us

society

RESIDENTS URGE IGP TO INVESTIGATE POLICE OFFICER OVER INVASION OF ENUGU COMMUNITY WITH THUGS

Published

on

RESIDENTS URGE IGP TO INVESTIGATE POLICE OFFICER OVER INVASION OF ENUGU COMMUNITY WITH THUGS.

 

By Our Reporter
For allegedly Invading his own community with thugs, brutalizing and inflicting grievous injuries to his cousin and a widow, over his desire to grab a coconut tree, Residents of Achi Agu community in the Oji River area of Enugu State,  have appealed to the Inspector – General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, to investigate and prosecute the erring  Sargent Daniel Ikechukwu Mgbejiofor.
 In what was described by their community leaders,  as a case of  ” Brothers Against Brother “, Police in Enugu, it was learned, has declared a manhunt for the Serving  Police Seargent in Abuja, Daniel Mgbejiofor, with Force Numbers F/512231, who allegedly inflicted grievous bodily harm on his half brother and willfully destroyed properties of his relative, after he was said to have invaded his village with some thugs, over a coconut tree dispute with a widow.
Seargent Mgbejiofor, who was later found to be a Specialist Police Officer attached to the  Logistics and Supplies (works Department) Abuja, Under  Commissioner of Police,  CP Shuaibu, was said to have evaded arrest and escaped from  Enugu State, back to  Abuja,  when the Oji River Police  Division, despatched an invitation letter requesting his presence over the case of  ” Conspiracy /Assault ” preferred against him.
According to the Investigation  Police Officer, IPO,  Corporal Kingsley  Nnaji, ” Seargent Daniel Mgbejiofor and his group are yet to be apprehended, after the incident that happened in Enugu – Agu Achi, Oji River Local government Area.”
 ” We gave his community chairman and the community security an invitation that if they see them, that they should bring them down to the station, they should invite them. We learned that they are not stable, they are not staying at home, they came back and after the issue, they went back again. we would have rooted his invitation through his office in Abuja, but we don’t have his force numbers, without which, we can not do much. what I extracted from the crime diary is Assault occasioning harm, wounding and malicious damages “, Nnaji said.
One of the victims of the alleged invasion, Mr. Chukwuebuka  Mgbejiofor, who was said to have been brutalized by Daniel,  stated  that  ”  Seargent Daniel had invaded my house on Good Friday, April 2nd, 2021 at about 6pm, in the company of his two  biological brothers, Godwin, Chinedu and three other  unidentifiable hefty men, demanding for an apology from me, over what he claimed was my role in the coconut tree dispute between his father Mr. Ephraim Mgbejiofor and  my widowed mother, Mrs. Philomena Mgbejiofor , I refused to follow them to apologize to his father because I told him that I never insulted or assaulted his father and that I didn’t do any wrong by saving the poor widow Philomena, who was being beaten up by his father Ephraim “
Narrating further his ordeal in the hands of the Seargent and his group, Chukwuebuka recalled that March ending, he was slapped severally by the Sergeants father,  Ephraim, for daring to separate him from beating up his widowed mother, over the right to plucking from a coconut tree belonging to another late uncle named  Ebenezer  Mgbejiofor.
  ” I pushed my mother away from him and he got angry asking if I was trying to challenge him, my uncle Ephraim went home and lied to his children that I challenged him and his children called me and threatened to deal with me whenever they come home. So, on Good Friday,  immediately I came back from work and was sweeping our compound, I heard sounds of motorcycles, suddenly Sargent’s Daniel entered our backyard with his group and they started beating me, broke our chairs and used the  broken pieces to injure me, just because I refused to follow them to go and apologize and beg their father for the offense I didn’t commit.”
“As if the earlier beatings and injuries were not enough, they came again on April 7th,2021, to my place of work and continued their beating, because they said that I refused to apologize to their father, after one week grace they gave to me. They attacked me, wounded me, and continued the beating until I fainted and they left me there in the pool of my blood until a good Samaritan from our community named killer Joe Uzo despatched a car that brought me to his house and after taking photographs of my injuries with his phone, he called the DPO  of Oji River Police Division, informing him that I was coming to make a formal report”.
“At Oji River Police Division, they took my photographs and statements and asked me to go and take care of myself as the people that committed the crimes had fled. They now gave me police invitation letters for the Sargent and brothers, which I sent through the chief security Officer of our community.”
According to the 26years old Tiller, Despite the trauma, intimidation, injuries inflicted on him and his mother by the Ephraim Mgbejiofors family, Ephraim has unlawfully through malicious prosecution, gone to a customary, and Magistrate court to secure an improper eviction order aimed at quitting them from his late father’s brother, Ebenezer’s house, where they are residing since his father’s death, Claiming that as the oldest surviving son of late Mgbejiofor,  he owns everything in the family.
He appealed to the Governor of Enugu State, His Local Government Chairman and the Inspector – General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, to call for proper and independent investigations, with a view to protecting their lives and granting him and his widowed mother justice.
“I have been on medical treatment since then and the suspects have refused to surface in our village again, rather his father is making life unbearable for us in our own house “, Chukwuebuka said.
In an interview with the village head, Nze Cyril Obitulata, he frowned at the move by Ephraim to evict the widow, Philomena, and his son from  Late Dr. Ebenezer Mgbejiofors house.
Collaborating the allegation of unlawful eviction against the widow,  Nze  Obitulata, declared that the house in dispute does not belong to Sergeant Daniel’s father, Ephraim Mgbejiofor .
” I have spoken to Ephraim informing him that he has no  ‘ locus stand’ to evict the widow,  because, he is not the rightful owner of the house. For the fact that the deceased Philomena’s husband is late, they had children who are alive. I have told Ephraim to leave the property alone but he is still pursuing it and I don’t know why”, he lamented.
 “It is the property of late Dr. Ebenezer Mgbejiofor , who had his own children, who are supposed to inherit the house or any other person from his lineage, has more claims over the house than any other person from any other group,” Nze said.
Lamenting further over Ephraims contest on the property, the Village Leader, who is also an Engineer, said thus:  ” I don’t know why Ephraim is contesting with the widow,  Philomena, over that property,I have told him severally to leave the house alone.
For the coconut tree,  I don’t know much, I heard that they planted it for one of Ebenezer’s sons and if so, it means that Ebenezers son owns it by our tradition, just as the compound belongs to them. “
Speaking on earlier attempts to reconcile the disputing families, he confirmed that he had tried in the past to bring the two families together so that peace will reign in the community.
 ” I didn’t go to the village during the  Easter holiday, I was in Enugu. I heard of the matter concerning fighting,  though nobody reported it officially to me. I don’t know much about the case, but I was told that there was a fight “.
” In our tradition, when a man marries two wives, after his demise, the first son of the first wife is the real owner of the house. I have told Ephraim that he has no right to evict Philomena from that house because she has the consent of Ebenezers late wife and children to stay there,  he Concluded.
 When our Correspondent contacted Sargent  Daniel, he denied all the allegations against him, claiming that he was not aware of any invitation from the police.
” All these things are just mere allegations. Chukwuebuka is my cousin, actually, we have problems in the family, which I traveled down to the village as a peacemaker during the Easter celebration. Though we scheduled a family meeting I was disappointed that only a few people came. I was surprised to see these allegations. My father has no issues with Philomena and it’s on record that Philomena’s husband divorced her. before his death “, he said.
The police officer also said that there was no fighting between him and the victim. ” I can’t fight Chukwuebuka because I am about 20 years older than him. I only visited him with my brothers for discussion, after I had called him over on phone to my house, but he didn’t come. He even came to apologize to my father and we made peace, there was no beating and I don’t know how he got bruises”, he stated.

society

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

Published

on

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

 

A governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has unveiled a comprehensive 17-point agenda outlining his policy direction ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.

Ajadi, who described leadership as a “relay race,” said his proposed administration would focus on continuity, consolidation, and innovation, building on existing development initiatives while introducing fresh ideas aimed at strengthening public trust and delivering measurable impact under what he termed the “Omituntun 3.0” framework.

The PDP chieftain said his manifesto prioritises industrial growth, agricultural expansion, security enhancement, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners, among other key sectors.

According to him, the agenda is designed to reposition Oyo State for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life for residents, while deepening grassroots democracy and inclusive governance.

He added that his vision centres on proactive governance that anticipates challenges and leverages strategic partnerships, technology, and policy stability to drive long-term development across the state.

Ajadi also pledged to strengthen public service delivery and ensure transparent, participatory governance that reflects the aspirations of the people of Oyo State.

Below is the full statement of the agenda released by Amb. Ajadi.

Oyo State 2027 Governorship Aspirant Ambassador Ajadi Unveils 17-Point Agenda

…Ajadi Reveals His Manifesto for the Good People of Oyo State

If I become the governor of Oyo State, my approach will be guided by continuity, consolidation, and innovation. Leadership is a relay race, and my commitment is to carry the baton forward—building on good works and introducing fresh ideas that deepen public trust and deliver measurable impact under the Omituntun 3.0 initiative.

My Core Priorities Include:

ENSURE CONTINUITY OF PROGRESS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

I will strengthen existing development frameworks, promote policy stability, and introduce innovative solutions where gaps exist. Governance is a continuum, and sustainable progress requires building on tested foundations rather than dismantling them.

INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

To reduce overdependence on federal allocation, my administration will pursue a deliberate industrial revolution through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). We will revive and expand industrial zones, attract local and foreign investors, and provide incentives such as tax holidays, infrastructure support, and land access. This will stimulate local production, job creation, and economic resilience.

AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD SECURITY

We will reposition agriculture as one of the major economic drivers by supporting farmers with inputs, mechanisation, credit facilities, and market access. Large-scale farming of cassava, rice, cocoa, cotton, maize, and other crops will be encouraged, alongside agro-processing and export. Our goal is to make Oyo State food-secure within our first term.

Ajadi Unveils Ambitious 17-point Plan To Drive Jobs, Security, Growth

RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND STRENGTHENING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

Rural development will be prioritised through road construction, ultramodern markets, water supply, electrification, and healthcare.

ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION

We will implement Operation “No Single Pothole” policy on our major roads and some inner roads to ensure consistent road maintenance across urban and rural areas. Strategic partnerships with construction firms will be explored for major industrial and border roads, with mutually beneficial tolling arrangements where necessary.

STRENGTHENING SECURITY ARCHITECTURE

Security of lives and property remains fundamental. My administration will strengthen community policing, energise community watch structures, deploy technology for crime monitoring, and improve coordination among security agencies. Increased support for the Security Trust Fund and collaboration with private security operators will ensure safer communities.

Oyo State will continue to develop a modern, safe, and sustainable urban transportation system by introducing electric and hybrid cars and buses equipped with smart technologies such as GPS tracking, digital displays, CCTV, collision-avoidance systems, and cashless payments to reduce congestion, emissions, and operating costs.

The transport system will be inclusive and people-centred, featuring low-floor buses, ramps, wheelchair spaces, and audio-visual announcements to ensure safe and comfortable mobility for all residents, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children.

Through sleek modern designs based on the existing built terminals, strong safety standards, and transparent governance, urban transportation will drive economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life across Oyo State.

This initiative will be achieved in partnership with the existing transport management body in Oyo State.

PUBLIC UTILITIES, WATER, AND WASTE MANAGEMENT

Provision of public waterworks through proper funding, infrastructure maintenance, and effective management. On waste management, modern legislation, private sector participation, recycling initiatives, and environmental sanitation will be pursued to create jobs and improve public health.

PARTY UNITY AND GRASSROOTS DEMOCRACY

Party unity, internal democracy, and grassroots engagement will be strengthened. A united PDP is essential for peace, cohesion, and collective progress.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue the trust in leadership by delivering a government that truly serves the people—one that listens, acts, and remains accountable. I am ready to carry the baton forward with loyalty, competence, and renewed energy for a better and more prosperous Oyo State.

EDUCATION: BUILDING A FUTURE-READY GENERATION

Education will be the backbone of Oyo State’s development, modelled after systems in developed countries where education drives innovation and economic growth.

Key Reforms:

Free and compulsory basic education with strong enforcement and incentives for school attendance.

Teacher retraining and continuous welfare upgrades, including continuous professional development, competitive salaries, and performance-based rewards.

Digital classrooms and smart schools, equipped with broadband internet, tablets, and a conducive environment for students across the state.

Technical and vocational education (TVET) aligned with industry needs, which will fall under the dual education system.

University–industry partnerships to promote research, innovation, and job placement for graduates.

Education loans and scholarship schemes for indigent but brilliant students.

Outcome:
A globally competitive workforce equipped with practical skills, innovation capacity, and strong civic values.

YOUTH, SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ECONOMIC GROWTH THROUGH TALENTS

As part of my commitment to youth development, my administration will prioritise youth participation in sports as a strategic tool for building a healthy, disciplined, and productive generation. We will invest in grassroots sports to improve physical and mental well-being, nurture talent, and instil values such as discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect for fair play. Through sports, we will keep our youths positively engaged, reduce crime and social vices, and open pathways to education, employment, and professional careers. This agenda will also strengthen social inclusion, community cohesion, and collective pride, positioning sports as a pillar of sustainable development.

Drawing inspiration from developed countries that value talent, sports and entertainment will be positioned as part of projecting our talents who are looking for international sports participation and scouting.

Through a strengthened Ministry of Sports and Entertainment:

Grassroots sports development in schools and local communities to discover and nurture talent early.

World-class sports infrastructure, including mini stadiums in all schools, training academies, and community sports centres.

Sports scholarships and talent scouting programmes, connecting Oyo athletes to international clubs and competitions.

Creative industry hubs for music, film, fashion, and digital content creation.

Entertainment grants and low-interest loans for young creatives.

Annual international festivals to attract tourism, investors, and global attention.

Outcome:
Thousands of jobs created, global recognition for Oyo State talents.

EMPOWER YOUTHS AND WOMEN

Youth and women empowerment will be central to our agenda through skills acquisition programmes, entrepreneurship support, provision of access to soft loans, and funding for micro, small, and medium enterprises through partnership with financial institutions. Empowering these groups is key to reducing unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.

HEALTHCARE: A MODERN, ACCESSIBLE, AND PEOPLE-CENTRED SYSTEM

Healthcare will be built on multiple levels to ensure access, affordability, and quality.

Key Initiatives:

Universal health insurance coverage for all residents, especially the vulnerable.

Upgrading primary healthcare centres to operate 24/7 with modern equipment and trained personnel.

Specialist hospitals and diagnostic centres across the zones of the state.

Medical tourism within Oyo State, reducing the need for foreign treatment.

Public-private partnerships (PPP) in healthcare delivery.

Incentives to attract and retain doctors and nurses, including housing and career development opportunities.

Outcome:
A healthier population, reduced medical expenses abroad, and increased life expectancy.

HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT: MODERN CITIES, DECENT LIVING

Inspired by urban planning models in developed countries, Oyo State will undergo a visible transformation.

Key Policies:

Development of high-rise and low-cost modern housing estates in Oyo State.

Affordable housing schemes for civil servants, artisans, business owners, and low-income earners.

Smart city planning, including green spaces, reliable power, water supply, and efficient waste management.

Urban renewal programmes to redevelop slums and ageing neighbourhoods.

Mortgage and rent-to-home-ownership schemes in partnership with financial institutions.

Existing home ownership will be censored and integrated into the existing Oyo State map planning.

Outcome:
A cleaner, modern, and visually attractive Oyo State that supports economic growth and improved quality of life.

SECURITY: SAFE COMMUNITIES, STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Security will be approached using global best practices from community policing models in some developed countries.

Security Strategy:

Technology-driven security, including CCTV cameras, drones, and smart surveillance systems, will be integrated into the existing security system.

Strengthened community policing, working closely with traditional rulers and local leaders.

Rapid response units across all the local government areas of Oyo State.

Youth engagement and employment programmes to address the root causes of crime.

Improved welfare and training for security personnel.

Outcome:
Safer communities, protected investments, and renewed confidence among residents and investors.

RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ELECTRICITY:

We will deliver reliable and affordable electricity by investing in independent power projects, renewable energy, and modern distribution systems to guarantee steady power for homes, industries, hospitals, schools, and investors. This will attract foreign investors to choose Oyo State as their investment base and also eradicate dark environments.

Dedicated power supply will be provided to industrial clusters, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions to boost productivity and service delivery. Stable electricity will reduce dependence on generators, lower business costs, strengthen security infrastructure, and accelerate sustainable economic growth in Oyo State.

FAIR WAGES AND TIMELY CAREER PROGRESSION FOR SERVING CIVIL SERVANTS

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges fair wages and entitlements that factor in prevailing economic realities for the workforce.
As a responsible and conscientious government, the Ajadi political ideology has gone ahead to provide a policy hedge for this, prioritising civil servants’ conditions of service.
By this, their salaries will continue to be paid regularly and promptly in line with established civil service rules.
In addition, merit-based promotions will be conducted as and when due, and there will be no issue of administrative delays or bureaucratic bottlenecks denying civil servants merited career progression.

Why will an Ajadi-led government keep faith with regular salary payment and promotion?
First, it is scriptural that a worker is worthy of his wages. In other words, anyone who has laboured to serve the state deserves decent wages for such labour.
Besides, regular payment of salaries is a sure way of sustaining workers’ morale, and my administration will not toy with it, knowing that the service is the engine room of productivity in any state economy.

Through these, therefore, an Ajadi-led government will sustain morale within the civil service, strengthen institutional efficiency, and guarantee that workers retire with dignity.

PENSIONERS AND RETIRED CIVIL SERVANTS: HONOURING SERVICE, SECURING DIGNITY

An Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo-led government would be run on equity and compassion, especially when it comes to pensions for retirees.
From the outset, the administration would put in place a robust pension payment framework that will not allow backlogs, but will instead be calculated upfront and paid as and when due.
This will enable retirees to plan their daily sustenance and also free government from running helter-skelter when it is time to pay.
Pensioners have served with their energy and time and should not be subjected to a beggarly status or have their lives endangered while seeking to receive what is both legally and morally theirs.

In connection with the above, our starting point is to seek to clear all verified outstanding pension and gratuity backlogs.
The modality for a transparent process has already been worked out and would go into operation upon the inauguration of the administration.
One of such modalities is the institution of a sustainable Pension Funding Framework aimed at ensuring uninterrupted and stress-free pension payment on a regular basis.

Digital and Seamless Pension Administration

Knowing very well how bureaucracy can affect genuinely thought-out government policies, the administration of Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has gone ahead to plan for the introduction and expansion of e-payment systems and digital verification platforms.
This will both checkmate fraud and fast-track pension payment for all entitled Oyo retirees.

Health and Social Support for Retirees

Retired civil servants will be integrated into affordable healthcare schemes, while welfare support programmes will be designed to assist elderly pensioners in managing their health conditions.
The policy, already formulated, will, however, accommodate the input of pensioners’ unions in implementation.

Our Watchword

Under Omituntun 3.0, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo pledges that retirement will not mean rejection and that years of service will never be rewarded with neglect. Pensioners will be treated as partners in development and accorded the same respect and priority as serving workers.

An Ajadi administration will protect earned benefits, preserve dignity, and guarantee peace of mind for every retired civil servant in Oyo State.

TRANSPARENT, INCLUSIVE, AND PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE

I hereby sign an undertaking to be held accountable and prosecuted in a court of law for failing to fulfil the electoral promises that I hereby make to the citizens of Oyo State.
Anti-corruption measures will be institutionalised, public service delivery digitised, and citizen feedback will be encouraged. Women, youths, and marginalised groups will be actively included in political and leadership spaces to ensure equity and shared ownership of governance.

Continue Reading

society

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

Published

on

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

“A father’s blessing is tied to your breakthrough and can change life’s patterns.”

Dishonouring one’s father—whether biological or spiritual—can disrupt the source of a person’s blessings and hinder progress in life. According to the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christopher Okafor, honouring one’s father is a spiritual principle that preserves destiny and unlocks divine favour.

Dr. Okafor made this statement during the Sunday Divine Intervention and Breakthrough Service held on March 15, 2026, at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.

The Power of a Father’s Blessing

In his teaching, the cleric described a father as a spiritual source.
According to him, when individuals respect and honour their source, they create a pathway for blessings, stability, and the fulfillment of their inheritance in life.

“One of the most dangerous practices for a believer is dishonouring a father,” he said.

“When the source is honoured, life flows well and destiny is preserved.”

He warned that when a father releases a negative declaration, it can become difficult for a person to experience lasting success, regardless of their level of hard work or skill.

“You may be hardworking,” he noted, “but if the source is polluted, progress can become difficult.”
Patterns Passed Through Families
Continuing his sermon in the series “Patterns – Part 2,” Dr. Okafor explained that many individuals struggle with recurring challenges within their families.

He suggested that hostility, blackmail, or disrespect toward authority figures may sometimes reflect deeper unresolved patterns within family lineages.

According to him, such patterns can affect a person’s progress until they are consciously addressed.

Breaking Negative Patterns

The preacher emphasized that the blessing of a father can interrupt negative family cycles.

Regardless of the patterns affecting a family, he said, a sincere blessing from a father figure has the spiritual authority to shift circumstances and open new paths for success.

He further advised believers to live responsibly, follow divine instructions, and remain prayerful.
“When you honour your fathers and walk in obedience,” he said, “God releases guidance and answers prayers speedily.”

Service Announcement

Meanwhile, Grace Nation Worldwide has announced that its annual flagship family liberation conference, “Harvest of Babies 2026,” will hold in the last week of March at the church’s international headquarters in Ojodu Berger, Lagos.

According to church officials, the conference is designed for couples and individuals trusting God for the fruit of the womb. The event is expected to attract participants from different parts of the world seeking spiritual support and prayer for miracle children.

Dr. Okafor encouraged expectant parents and families believing for children to participate in the prophetic gathering, expressing faith that God will bring transformation and testimonies to many lives.

 

Dishonouring Fathers Pollutes Your Source and Limits Destiny — Dr. Chris Okafor

Continue Reading

society

ADC Unveils Opposition Strategy as Obi, Atiku, Amaechi Move to Challenge Tinubu in 2027

Published

on

ADC Unveils Opposition Strategy as Obi, Atiku, Amaechi Move to Challenge Tinubu in 2027

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

“Opposition heavyweights explore coalition strategy under the African Democratic Congress as political analysts debate whether a united front can realistically challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.”

Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi are working together under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as part of a coordinated political effort aimed at defeating Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, according to party insiders who revealed the strategy in Abuja in March 2026.

https://www.stanbicibtcbank.com/nigeriabank/personal/products-and-services/all-loans/stanbic-ibtc-mreif-home-loans

https://www.stanbicibtcbank.com/nigeriabank/personal/products-and-services/all-loans/stanbic-ibtc-mreif-home-loans

The ADC leadership disclosed that the three prominent political figures (each of whom commands significant national followership) are currently holding consultations, building a broad opposition coalition, and harmonising political structures across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The objective, according to the party, is to create a unified opposition front capable of challenging the electoral dominance of the APC, which has controlled Nigeria’s presidency since 2015.

Party officials said the collaboration represents a deliberate attempt to replicate the successful coalition strategy that defeated the then-ruling party in 2015, when several opposition blocs merged to form the APC and ultimately removed the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from power after sixteen years. Analysts say the ADC coalition hopes to reverse that historical pattern by bringing together major opposition figures under a single political platform before the 2027 elections.

According to political insiders, the discussions among Obi, Atiku and Amaechi revolve around three key pillars: coalition building, electoral strategy, and national policy alternatives designed to appeal to voters dissatisfied with Nigeria’s economic direction and governance challenges. The ADC reportedly believes that combining Obi’s youth-driven support base, Atiku’s political networks across northern Nigeria, and Amaechi’s organisational influence within the political establishment could create a formidable opposition alliance.

Political scientist Prof. Pat Utomi argued that coalition politics may be the only realistic path for opposition forces seeking to defeat an incumbent government in Nigeria. According to him, “Opposition fragmentation has always been the ruling party’s greatest advantage. A coalition changes the arithmetic of Nigerian politics.”

Similarly, constitutional lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) observed that the emerging alliance reflects a broader democratic pattern. “In many democracies, opposition parties must cooperate to challenge incumbents effectively. What matters is whether such cooperation produces credible alternatives for voters,” Falana said in a recent public lecture on electoral reform.

However, not all analysts believe the coalition will automatically translate into electoral victory. Political commentator Dr. Jide Ojo noted that Nigeria’s electoral politics is shaped by regional balancing, party structures, and grassroots mobilisation, factors that may complicate the opposition’s strategy. “Coalitions are powerful, but they only work when ideological differences are managed and when leadership ambitions are carefully negotiated,” he explained.

The question of who will eventually emerge as the coalition’s presidential candidate remains one of the most sensitive issues. Both Obi and Atiku previously contested the presidency in the 2023 election, while Amaechi (former governor of Rivers State and former Minister of Transportation) also ran in the APC presidential primaries that produced Tinubu as candidate. Negotiations over the presidential ticket are therefore expected to become a central issue as coalition talks progress.

Political historian Dr. Sam Amadi, former chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, believes the coalition’s success will depend on whether it can present a clear national vision rather than merely an anti-Tinubu agenda. According to him, “Nigerians are not only interested in defeating incumbents; they want to know what comes after. A coalition must offer policy credibility.”

Meanwhile, supporters of the ruling APC dismiss the coalition as politically exaggerated. Some party leaders argue that the opposition alliance lacks cohesion and may eventually collapse under internal rivalry. They maintain that President Tinubu still commands strong political structures nationwide and remains well-positioned ahead of the 2027 race.

Despite the skepticism, the emerging ADC coalition has already intensified political discussions across the country. For many observers, the alliance represents the first serious attempt to reshape Nigeria’s opposition landscape since the 2023 general election.

Whether the collaboration between Obi, Atiku and Amaechi will ultimately succeed in unseating Tinubu remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the battle for Nigeria’s 2027 presidency has quietly begun, with coalition politics once again emerging as a decisive factor in the nation’s democratic trajectory..

 

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending