Political Earthquake in Abuja: Gwagwalada Chairman-Elect Defects from PDP to APC Days After Victory

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG 

“Mohammed Kasim’s Swift Party Switch After FCT Council Polls Sparks Outrage, Raises Questions About Electoral Mandate and Political Loyalty.”

In a dramatic post-election twist that is reverberating through Nigeria’s capital, Mr. Mohammed Kasim; the newly elected chairman of Gwagwalada Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and has reportedly defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) just days after being declared winner of the February 21 area council elections.

Kasim’s evolution from opposition victor to APC affiliate compounds political tensions in the FCT. Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) results had shown him securing the Gwagwalada chairmanship with 22,165 votes, defeating the APC’s Yahaya Shehu’s 17,788 votes in a keenly contested poll.

Yet sources close to political circles in Abuja suggest Kasim’s defection was pre-negotiated with key stakeholders in the corridor of power, triggering controversy within PDP ranks and raising questions over democratic integrity at the grassroots.

Political analysts contend this move reinforces APC’s dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections while highlighting institutional fragilities within the opposition. As Dr. Aisha Bello, a governance expert at the Centre for Democratic Studies, observes, “Defections at the local level underscore the erosion of ideological coherence in Nigerian politics and signal a drift towards patronage-driven alignments rather than programme-based political competition.”

The PDP has reportedly threatened legal action to contest the legitimacy of the defection on grounds that it undermines the electoral will of Gwagwalada constituents, insisting that allegiance shifts so soon after a mandate breach electoral norms. For residents and observers, Kasim’s decision is more than political theatre: it is a litmus test for Nigeria’s democratic maturation and the resilience of opposition structures under pressure.

Daniel Olushola Falola Releases latest video “Ayipada”

Falola Olusola Daniel, the mastermind behind Mary Jay Crew, a prominent Nigerian gospel musician, has released a new and powerful video titled ‘Ayipada’. A trailblazing gospel musician offered a prayer video with great sincerity on behalf of Nigeria and its government.

“Ayipada” is a commendable song by Falola Daniel Olushola, distinguished as a hit song that encapsulates Nigeria’s circumstances and serves as a prayer for the nation’s comprehensive liberation.

The Ayipada video stands out for its exceptional sound and imagery, while its lyrics, which are rich in prayers for less privileged Nigerians, provide peace to the people.

The song’s theme of hope and divine dependence transcends ordinary music, positioning it as a melodic prayer. Through its blend of spiritual essence and modern rhythms, ‘Ayipada’ signifies a new era in an individual’s life journey.

“Ayipada” defies categorization as an ordinary song, gaining immense popularity on YouTube and social media platforms, and has emerged as a beacon of hope, energizing the spirit and bringing solace to the hopeless.

Undoubtedly, Falola Daniel Olushola is making significant strides and gaining momentum in the gospel entertainment industry. With a keen eye for excellence and a deep passion for music, Falola Daniel Olushola consistently delivers outstanding performances as a gospel musician.

For Ayipada’s latest video updates, follow him on YouTube @foladanielolushola, and explore his content on his Facebook page and Instagram, where you can also subscribe and download his videos.

Fire Erupts at Lagos International Airport

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG 

“Smoke at Nigeria’s Busiest Gateway: Fire Scare Jolts Lagos International Terminal, No Casualties Reported.”

A fire outbreak on Monday, 23 February 2026, triggered panic at the international terminal of Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The blaze, reportedly caused by an electrical fault within a service section of the terminal, was swiftly contained by officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.

FAAN spokesperson Mrs. Obiageli Orah confirmed there were no casualties. Emergency teams evacuated passengers from affected areas, while some flights experienced brief disruptions. Authorities have launched a technical investigation to determine the precise cause and prevent recurrence at Nigeria’s busiest airport gateway