Politics
Term Elongation : Finally, APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun bows to pressure
Published
7 years agoon

Opponents of tenure elongation have carried the day in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Its National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, last night bowed to pressure from governors and party leaders to forego tenure extension.
He has summoned an emergency meeting of the National Working Committee (NWC) for 8am today to draw the timetable for state congresses and National Convention.
The meeting will hold before the National Executive Committee (NEC) session begins at 11am.
A member of the NWC said: “We were all shocked to get a text message inviting us for NWC meeting by 8am on Monday when all we were preparing for was the NEC session.
“Some of us inquired and we were told that the NWC meeting will draw the timetable for state congresses and the National Convention for consideration by NEC. This was what we told him to do last Thursday.
“We suspect that the latest development must have accounted for Oyegun’s U-turn. From the horse-trading so far, all the APC governors have backed out of tenure extension for Oyegun and the NWC.
“We learnt the last governor to ditch him yesterday was Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna State.”
Another NWC member said: “I think summoning NWC meeting very early in the morning before NEC amounted to panic on the part of the national chairman.
“Some of us were really amazed when we got the text message. This was the same Oyegun who did not allow us access to the report of the Governor Simon Lalong Committee which was set up by the NWC.
“We had the whole weekend, he did not call for any meeting. Now, he wants to hold a pre-emptive meeting.
“We will go there and listen to what he has in stock for us.”
There were talks last night that Oyegun might seek to recontest based on some governors’ advice. But, it was not clear if he would heed the advice.
If he does, he would have to jostle for the seat again with former Governors Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) and Clement Ebri (Cross River).
Investigation by our correspondent revealed that pro-Buhari governors reached out to NEC members to accept his proposal for elective congresses and National Convention.
As at Friday, no fewer than 21 governors and their state chairmen had conceded that the party should conduct fresh election into party offices in order to avoid running into legal technicality on the nomination of APC candidates for the 2019 polls.
A governor said he and his colleagues chose to rally round President Muhammadu Buhari because his proposal is the first major advice he would give to the party.
The governor said: “To me, I believe the President is facing a major vote of confidence at the NEC meeting. The issue is not about Oyegun or NWC members but it borders on the extent to which we have respect for the President’s views.”
He went on: “Unlike other past Presidents who will force their views on party members, Buhari was democratic enough to render advice and ask party leaders to consider the pros and cons.
“If Buhari’s advisory is accepted, it will be a sign that his voice counts. But where NEC rejects his proposal, he would have lost the confidence of a key organ of the party.
“You can see why we have regarded the NEC meeting as make or break. An endorsement of Buhari’s idea will also foretell his chances in the party if he chooses to seek a second term ticket in 2019.
“So, some of us do not see it as one person hijacking the party structure or not but as a major test of a vote of confidence in Buhari.
“This is why we have prevailed on him to stay behind and be part of the NEC meeting. We do not want any upset for him as designed by some forces. The President has taken his political fortunes for granted because of his new found democratic disposition but we have asked him to take his destiny in his hands.”
Another source said: “The NEC meeting will chart a new course for APC by confirming our ability to look inward to address our challenges without rancour.
“If we get it right at the NEC meeting, it will strengthen the party to prepare for the 2019 polls. Otherwise, we may end up being divided.
“For a party that has barely existed for four years, we cannot afford the luxury of derailing. This is why we are saying that wise counsel must prevail.”
Our correspondent learnt last night that pro-Oyegun governors and party leaders may be seeking “soft-landing” by coming up with the concept of a “guided national convention” which will lead to the return of some NWC members.
Another source said: “A few governors are calling for a guided national convention by which the return of some NWC members will be negotiated and delegates will be advised to vote for them at the convention.
“They do not want to throw away the baby with the bathwater. They believe some NWC members have done fairly well and if their zones still want them, delegates should be asked to endorse them.
“So, instead of a complete overhaul of NWC, the bad elements should go.”
But a NEC member said: “We won’t accept guided convention in view of the manipulation we have gone through in the past few weeks.
“At least, we have secured two-thirds in support of Buhari’s proposal; we will go full blast for state congresses and national convention.
“Any NWC member interested in seeking re-election should canvass for votes. We have also decided that all suits against tenure elongation will be withdrawn if Oyegun and the NWC members concede to elective national convention.”
Another governor, who responded to The Nation’s enquiry said: “We are no longer bothered about the tenure extension debate, we are comparing notes among ourselves on the appointment of the National Convention Committee.
“To some extent, the governors and some leaders of the party have reached a consensus on the list of the convention committee which will be presented to NEC.”
As at press time, it was learnt that some governors were still making a case for Oyegun’s return to office.
A source in Oyegun’s camp said: “Some governors have approached Oyegun to re-contest but he has not made up his mind. I think the outcome of NEC session will determine his next step.”
But there were indications that Oyegun’s return has been rejected by Edo APC which is insisting that he must quit.
“The APC leaders in Edo actually do not want Oyegun. In fact the state branch has filed a suit to oppose tenure elongation.
“If Oyegun decides to re-contest, he might fight for the slot with ex-Governor Adams Oshiomhole and ex-Governor Clement Ebri.
“I think Oshiomhole has an edge at present,” said a Northwest governor.
Meanwhile, six APC governors have been urged to support the President’s bid to reposition the party.
The Northcentral Media Support Group for Buhari made the plea in a statement by its National coordinator, Ahmad Tukur.
Tukur said the governors should support the President at the NEC meeting.
He said: “We are confident that the Northcentral will give the President every support that is why we are urging our governors to go to NEC meeting with one voice to ensure that the decision of Mr. President is supreme as the leader of the party.”
“Supporting the President from Northcentral is a support from the country because the zone constitutes a mini Nigeria.”
The group said the President was doing his best to “ ensure that the right thing is done in accordance with the provision of the law to see that APC leadership is legally put in place.
“Buhari as the leader of the party deserves every commendation for his effort to place the country among the comity of nations that respects rule of law and the constitution.”
Related
Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

You may like
Politics
PRIMATE AYODELE SHOCKER!! Not Atiku, Not Obi, only Tinubu Can Make Nigeria Great Again!
Published
1 day agoon
April 25, 2025
PRIMATE AYODELE SHOCKER!! Not Atiku, Not Obi, only Tinubu Can Make Nigeria Great Again!
-Warns President To Do 3 Things To Win 2027 Elections
If there is one prophet presently in Nigeria that has established himself clearly as an oracle, one that foretells accurately what the future holds for different prominent individuals and the country at large, that prophet is no other than Primate Ayodele Elijah, the founder and leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual church. Over the years, he has distinguished himself as different from the rest of the crowd. He is a different breed of prophet. What stands him out distinctly is his ability to hear from the Lord and make prophecies long before they happen.
For instance, in 2022, one of the most popular videos from any prophet back then, was the viral video of Primate Ayodele warning Nigerians not to vote for President Tinubu because, according to him, the country would be plunged into severe economic hardship if he is voted into office. And that’s exactly what happened. But today, Primate Ayodele has another fresh prophecy that changes everything, something many Nigerians will be delighted to hear about. Below is his response when he spoke to City People Editor, WALE LAWAL (08037209290) recently.
What is his position on the gale of defections by many PDP members, including governors and ex-governors to the ruling party, APC, he was asked?
“I have said this before, go and look through our previous prophecies. Maybe a lot of Nigerians are surprised, but I am not the least surprised about this. I specifically mentioned the PDP governors that will defect to the APC and it is all coming to light now. This was what the Lord told me would happen since last year.”
“Now, there is something I want to tell you Nigerians and it is very, very critical and it is important that they listen to me very attentively. I am sure many Nigerians will remember that, in 2022, I was the prophet who warned that they should not vote for President Tinubu and that if they do, the country will be doomed and things will go from bad to worse, right? And it turned out as I foretold. Now, I am the same person coming out strongly to tell Nigerians that, it is that same man, Tinubu, that will take us to the Promised land, and they have to take it or leave it. I said it that the economy will be in shambles if he becomes president, I said the prices of petroleum product will be at an all time high and there will be hardship everywhere. I am now telling you that the same man, come 2027, is the best person for the job. He is the one God will use to turn things around and Nigerians will be happy again.”
“As for Atiku, if he becomes the next president of Nigeria, Nigerians will be in perpetual shock at the outcome of how terrible things will become in the country! If it’s Peter Obi, I am telling you Nigeria will no longer be on the map of the world! If it’s Aminu Tambuwal, Nigeria will crash in only a matter of months. If it’s El-Rufai, Nigeria will be buried for life!”
“I am sure a lot of Nigerians are wondering, what is this man saying? I am saying exactly what I know, exactly what God has told me. When I said the last time that Nigerians would not vote for the best candidate at the time, people said I collected money from Atiku, now that I have declared that the best man for the job is President Tinubu, let them come and tell me I have collected money from Tinubu as well. They say all of these because they do not understand who a prophet is. A prophet is dynamic. A prophet must not be one sided, he must listen to the word of God. Tinubu is the man that will make Nigeria better. And the coming 2027 elections will be largely influenced by ethnicity. And Tinubu’s vote will seriously divide the north.”
Meanwhile, there are three people that must not come out to contest, if they do, Tinubu is in trouble! His re-election for a second term will be in crisis. I will not mention the names now, if I must do that, I will speak to only the appropriate person and that’s the president. I want to speak with the president himself and if he likes, let him listen to me because there are three things the president must do to guarantee his re-election for a second term. If he does not do those three things, he will lose the election, I can guarantee him that. He needs to do these very critical things, three of them, before he can be guaranteed of victory in 2027.”
“As for the President’s wife, she must be careful and guide against being poisoned. She must change her cook.”
Primate was asked to comment on the moves by prominent politicians and the opposition to form what they consider a powerful coalition against the President and his government.
“All these coalitions they are forming all over the place is not new to me, people leaving one party for another party has never been an issue with me. I knew all this would happen and we said so. So, its not new,” Primate Ayodele stated.
The highly revered prophet launched into other areas of governance and politics.
“Adebayo Adelabu cannot become governor of Oyo state. If APC gives him their ticket it is going to be nothing but a wasted vote. If they give it to him, the APC will lose disgracefully.”
“In Anambra state, Uwachukwu Nicholas cannot unseat Soludo as governor. Let him run to anywhere he wants, he cannot succeed unless he does some very significant and needful things that will enhance his chances. But limiting his chances to his own capacity and ideas alone, he should forget it, he will not win the Anambra election.
In Osun state, PDP will still retain power. If APC brings back Oyetola, they will lose the election so disgracefully that the APC in Osun state will go into oblivion. Nobody will remember APC again in Osun state.
Outside of politics, I see Eleganza being set ablaze and shoprite. In addition, I am seeing that hundreds of herdsmen will be killed and they will be chased out of the country. I also see the end of militants fighting themselves.
Eggs will become scarce. We must pay attention to our international airports to ensure that no shooting targetted against a VIP takes place.
IGP Egbetokun will go. Then, I must not forget to reveal that Nyesom Wike, the Attorney General of the federation and Ribadu will be engulfed in a very serious fight.
I warned Fubara that he must not go against the FG, he must use the government for government. He has listened to my warnings now, I had released the warning since October 2024. If he follows my advice to him, I am telling you, Fubara will come back, he will go for a second term and he will win.”
Related
Politics
Expired Mandates Must Go: A Call for Rebirth in the People’s Democratic Party
Published
2 days agoon
April 25, 2025
Expired Mandates Must Go: A Call for Rebirth in the People’s Democratic Party
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
In a country grappling with the deepest crises of its post-independence history, ranging from economic despair to democratic regression, there is no space for expired mandates or recycled leadership. Yet, within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), both at home and in the diaspora, many individuals who have long outlived their political relevance continue to occupy leadership positions. These individuals, once symbols of hope, have now become obstacles to progress, clinging to power not for service but for self-preservation.
The time has come to say it clearly and without apology: they must go. Nigeria cannot afford another electoral cycle wasted on nostalgia and recycled strategies. The PDP must embark on a painful but necessary ideological and structural rebirth. If we are to remain a viable political force capable of saving Nigeria from the catastrophic misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC), then we must begin by purging our ranks of dead weight.
When Leadership Becomes Liability
True leadership is tested not during times of ease, but in moments of national adversity. Sadly, during some of Nigeria’s darkest moments, when the people needed courage, clarity and conviction, many of the PDP’s so-called leaders were either silent, complicit or comfortably absent. While Nigerians suffered the brunt of failed policies, currency freefall, widespread kidnappings and systemic corruption under APC rule since 2015, these leaders were either engaged in backdoor negotiations or gracing dinners hosted by the same regime they were elected to challenge.
This betrayal is not merely political; it is moral. The PDP was founded as a platform for justice, inclusion and national development. Its current condition, tainted by the complicity and cowardice of career politicians, is a disgrace to that vision. Rather than resist tyranny, these political merchants have preferred transactional alliances, preferring personal gain over public good.
Opposition Is Not a Hobby: It Is a Calling
Politics in a democracy, especially from the opposition bench, is not for the faint-hearted. It requires backbone, vision and a readiness to speak truth to power, even at personal cost. But in Nigeria, opposition politics has too often been reduced to empty press releases, Twitter activism and superficial coalition-building that collapses at the scent of political appeasement. The PDP’s most vocal moments seem to come only during electoral seasons, when contracts are on the line and tickets are up for grabs.
This is not opposition, it is opportunism.
Since the APC took power in 2015, Nigeria has faced an alarming regression on nearly every front. Our economy, once Africa’s largest, now wallows in inflation, unemployment and a crumbling Naira. Insecurity has turned vast swathes of the country into killing fields. Democratic institutions have been weakened and civil liberties trampled. And yet, the PDP has not offered the formidable resistance expected of a party with its legacy. Where was the outrage when election results were manipulated? Where was the coordination when court orders were disobeyed or when citizens were gunned down during peaceful protests?
Far too often, PDP leaders have failed to meet the moment. Instead of organizing sustained campaigns against injustice, they were busy negotiating political appointments, forming alliances of convenience or going mute entirely.
The Curse of Recycled Leadership
Nigeria suffers not from a lack of talent, but from the stranglehold of geriatric politics. The same names dominate the PDP’s leadership structure year after year, individuals more committed to preserving their influence than solving Nigeria’s problems. Their ideas are outdated, their rhetoric tired and their loyalty questionable. These figures are relics of a past that Nigerians are desperately trying to escape.
It is this recycling of failed politicians that keeps the party in perpetual crisis. These individuals cling to “UNITY” not as a principle of inclusion, but as a euphemism for entitlement. They manipulate internal processes, undermine youth participation and resist reform. Their refusal to exit the stage is not only selfish; it is dangerous. They have nothing more to offer but delays, distractions and diluted strategies.
A Generational Reawakening
The PDP must now prioritize generational transition; not as a symbolic gesture, but as a matter of strategic survival. The future of opposition in Nigeria depends on the rise of a new crop of leaders, men and women who are untainted by the corruption of the past and committed to confronting the APC with courage, clarity and creativity.
We must restructure our internal systems to promote merit, innovation and grassroots participation. The party must become a sanctuary for activists, youth leaders, technocrats and political reformers, individuals who are willing to stake their reputations and risk personal comfort in service to the people. We need leaders who do not seek comfort in compromise but purpose in resistance.
This change must start from the ward level to the National Working Committee. The culture of “godfatherism,” imposition and shadow deals must end. If we fail to democratize our own party, how can we claim to defend democracy in Nigeria?
Rebirth Through Accountability
Rebuilding the PDP means going beyond slogans. It means instituting a new culture of accountability. Those who failed the party during our most difficult battles must not be rewarded with tickets or appointments. They must be named and shamed. Loyalty must no longer be measured by years of membership, but by years of service, sacrifice and substance.
PDP must also return to issue-based politics. Nigerians are tired of empty rhetoric. We must present comprehensive, bold and practical policy alternatives, from security reform to youth employment, education, healthcare and digital economy development. We must use every avenue/parliament, media, civil society, diaspora networks to expose the failures of the APC and champion workable solutions.
From Diaspora to National Action
This call also extends to the diaspora chapters of the PDP, many of which have devolved into echo chambers dominated by career politicians abroad. The diaspora should be a nerve center of innovation, advocacy and global lobbying for Nigerian democracy, not a retirement plan for political patrons. Our foreign chapters must become engines of ideas, funding and advocacy/not gossip centers filled with expired politicians chasing diplomatic appointments.
Let the new wave of diasporans be bridge-builders between Nigeria and global best practices. Let them lead policy conversations, support grassroots mobilization and raise the intellectual bar of opposition politics.
Time to Clear the Stage:
Nigeria is at a historic crossroads. The APC has failed, but failure alone does not translate to victory for the PDP. Only a credible, dynamic and forward-looking PDP can offer the country a genuine alternative. That journey begins by asking those who have failed the test of leadership to step aside.
This is not a personal attack; it is a patriotic call. If you failed to defend Nigerians in their hour of need, if your legacy is more betrayal than bravery, then the time has come to go.
Let the PDP be reborn through truth, not tokenism. Let it be restructured around the people, not personalities. Let us build a party where conviction overrides convenience and where service, not survival, is the goal.
Let the expired mandates go. Nigeria’s future cannot wait.
Related
Politics
Meet Joseph Onosolease, also known as PJO, the next chairman of Somolu Local Government Council …A forward-thinking visionary leader for Somolu’s transformation
Published
3 days agoon
April 24, 2025
Meet Joseph Onosolease, also known as PJO, the next chairman of Somolu Local Government Council
…A forward-thinking visionary leader for Somolu’s transformation
~By Oluwaseun Fabiyi
*What is Honorable Pastor Joseph Onosolease’s position in Somolu, Bariga Lagos politics?*
Pastor Joseph Onosolease, also known as PJO, enjoys a reputation for exemplary character, integrity, and loyalty. He provided selfless service, worked diligently, and played a pivotal role as a Lagos grassroots politician in that struggle
In the rapidly evolving context of Lagos politics and development, a select few demonstrate remarkable leadership and foresight, among whom Hon. Pastor Joseph Onosolease is especially prominent
His journey exemplifies a dynamic fusion of politician, entrepreneur, and urban planner, offering a compelling narrative of leadership driven by purpose, service, innovation, and community empowerment. PJO’s early life was defined by a diverse educational background that encompassed the Southwestern regions of Nigeria and Africa. His formative years in Lagos State foretold the national influence he would later wield. His foundational years displayed a synthesis of cross-cultural experiences and academic excellence.
His dedication to structured societal growth led him to a life-changing, impactful position in God’s vineyard within his jurisdiction in Nigeria and abroad. His academic background proved instrumental in his subsequent contributions to land administration and urban development as a grassroots politician in Lagos, demonstrating a commitment to excellence as a dedicated politician focused on transforming Somolu local government for the better
The political trajectory of Joseph Onosolease, alias PJO, is a testament to his strategic approach to governance, marked by thoughtful appointments and an unwavering commitment to creating a lasting impact. His rise to prominence within the Somolu/Bariga axis of Lagos State has been swift and decisive, driven by his astute grasp of grassroots politics. This expertise has enabled him to institute meaningful reforms, reshaping institutional frameworks and urban policy implementation to better serve Somolu’s residents
His 2023 gubernatorial bids, aimed at securing a position in the Lagos State House of Assembly within the ruling party (APC), did not yield electoral victories; however, they showcased a persistent aspiration to contribute to and reform governance at the state level. On this occasion, PJO has secured the affection of the Somolu community, who are now rallying behind him in his bid to emerge victorious as the next Somolu Local Government Chairman, a move that signifies a new dawn, one that is divinely ordained by God
PJO’s leadership extends beyond politics, thriving in the non-profit and private sectors, while also serving as a pioneering force in God’s vineyard, untainted and embodying entrepreneurial vision with social impact
What most distinguishes Pastor Joseph Onosolease popularly known as PJO is his passion for community development.Through his political name, PJO, he spearheads humanitarian initiatives that touch lives across Somolu/Bariga, Lagos State. His recognition, including being a servant of God (Pastor), is a testament to his national influence and religious integration
PJO serves as a resounding testament to the transformative potential of leadership, countering widespread skepticism in an era where leadership is frequently questioned. By exercising political power with sagacity and compassion, he has demonstrated that meaningful change is achievable. His experience underscores the notion that the future trajectory of Somolu local government is contingent upon the vision, values, and character of its leaders, distinguishing him as an exemplary leader. PJO’s exceptional qualities make him an ideal candidate for the position of chairman of Somolu Local Government, warranting consideration based on merit alone.
Watch for his achievement in part 2 of this political article.
Related
Trending
-
Business6 months ago
Comprehensive Media Audit Shows Flutterwave, MTN Nigeria, and Bolt Outpacing Competitors in Media Engagement
-
celebrity radar - gossips7 months ago
How Deji Adeyanju Secured The Release Of Speed Darlington
-
Entertainment4 months ago
Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
-
religion6 months ago
Intimacy 2024 Lagos Crusade with Apostle Johnson Suleman: A Call for 1 Billion Souls for Christ
You must be logged in to post a comment Login