The political temperature in Osun State has risen further ahead of the August 15 governorship election, with the Accord Party accusing the police of allegedly targeting its members, candidates and supporters in what it describes as a politically motivated crackdown.

The party has petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, the National Security Adviser and other key stakeholders, seeking urgent intervention over what it described as widespread harassment, intimidation, arrest and detention of its members across the state.

Accord also renewed its demand for the removal of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, accusing him of alleged partisanship and expressing concern that his continued stay in office could affect confidence in the electoral process.

The allegations were contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s National Chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem.

According to Mgbudem, about 100 Accord leaders, candidates, members and supporters have allegedly been arrested and detained in different parts of the state, with some reportedly transferred to Abuja.

The party chairman described the development as an assault on democratic values and warned that the alleged arrests could weaken the party’s campaign activities and undermine the credibility of the forthcoming election.

Accord Alleges Double Standard

Mgbudem alleged that Accord had previously reported attacks on its campaign council, party offices, supporters and campaign materials to the police and other security agencies, but that the perpetrators had not been brought to justice.

He specifically cited alleged attacks on the Imole Campaign Council, destruction of campaign billboards and what the party described as the killing of some of its leaders and supporters.

According to the Accord chairman, the party’s frustration over what it considers inadequate response to those incidents informed its earlier demand for the removal of the state Commissioner of Police.

The latest allegations, however, have taken the political dispute to another level, with Accord now asking federal authorities and other stakeholders to intervene.

‘Politically Motivated’

The party alleges that the arrests are politically motivated and intended to frustrate its grassroots campaign ahead of the governorship poll.

Accord said it was particularly concerned about what it described as the arrest and detention of party leaders and government officials without formal charges.

The party has therefore appealed to the Presidency, the police hierarchy, civil society organisations, the international community and other stakeholders to take steps to protect what it considers a level playing field for all contestants.

At the same time, Accord urged its members and supporters not to respond to alleged provocation with violence.

That call for restraint could prove significant as political activity intensifies across Osun and rival parties increase their mobilisation ahead of election day.

‘The Ballot Is Stronger Than the Bullet’

In a striking political message, the party declared that no amount of force would discourage its supporters from backing its candidate.

Its assertion that “the ballot is stronger than the bullet” has become the central message of its latest appeal, underscoring the party’s insistence that political contests should ultimately be decided through votes rather than intimidation or force.

Accord also urged eligible voters in Osun to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate actively in the electoral process.

The Bigger Question: Can Osun Guarantee a Level Playing Field?

The allegations have introduced another contentious issue into an already competitive election season.

Security agencies have consistently maintained that their responsibility is to protect lives and property and provide a peaceful environment before, during and after elections, while remaining neutral among competing political parties.

Against that backdrop, the allegations by Accord will require careful scrutiny.

If the arrests occurred as alleged, questions will arise over the legal basis for the arrests, the identity of those detained, the offences alleged against them and whether due process was followed.

Conversely, if individuals were arrested in connection with genuine criminal or electoral offences, the police would be expected to provide sufficient clarity and evidence to dispel perceptions of political interference.

Either way, transparency will be critical.

Election Security Under Spotlight

With the August 15 governorship election drawing closer, the focus will increasingly shift to the conduct of security agencies and the ability of political parties to campaign without fear or intimidation.

A credible election requires more than the mere presence of security personnel at polling units. It also requires public confidence that law-enforcement agencies are applying the law fairly and without favour.

For Accord, the latest petition represents an attempt to draw federal attention to what it considers a serious threat to its participation in the election.

For the security agencies, the challenge is to demonstrate that every arrest, investigation and deployment is based on law and security considerations rather than political affiliation.

As the campaigns gather momentum, the central question is no longer simply who will win Osun.

It is whether every contestant and voter will have sufficient confidence that the contest will be decided by the ballot—and that the ballot will be protected.

The political atmosphere in Osun State has taken a dramatic turn following the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Teslim Igbalaye, by the police over allegations bordering on possible electoral offences.

The development has immediately triggered a fresh political debate in the state, coming at a particularly sensitive period ahead of the governorship election.

According to the police, the operation at the SSG’s residence led to the recovery of cash, voter registers, Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and other materials which investigators believe may be relevant to alleged electoral infractions.

The police have said the items are being examined as part of an investigation into circumstances surrounding their possession and possible use.

But the Osun State Government has rejected the police operation, describing it as unlawful and questioning the circumstances surrounding the search and arrest of the senior government official.

The conflicting positions have consequently created two sharply different narratives.

On one side is the police, which maintains that the operation was connected to an investigation and that the recovered materials require scrutiny. On the other is the state government, which regards the action as improper and potentially politically motivated.

Electoral Season and Political Sensitivities

The timing of the incident has added another layer of significance.

With political parties and their supporters already positioning themselves ahead of the governorship election, any development involving voter registers, PVCs or other electoral materials is bound to attract considerable public attention.

Electoral materials are particularly sensitive because of their potential implications for the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.

However, the mere recovery of such items does not, by itself, establish criminal culpability. The police investigation, due process and, where necessary, judicial proceedings will ultimately determine whether any offence was committed.

This distinction is important in an atmosphere where political accusations can quickly become campaign weapons.

A Clash of Narratives

The controversy is now developing beyond the arrest itself.

For the police, the central question appears to be why such materials were allegedly found at the residence of a high-ranking government official and whether their possession breached electoral laws.

For the state government, the questions may include the legality of the search, the circumstances of the arrest and whether law-enforcement powers are being deployed appropriately in the heat of political competition.

Both narratives are likely to receive intense political attention as the election approaches.

What Happens Next?

The next stage of the investigation will therefore be crucial.

The police will be expected to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the recovered materials and, if appropriate, establish the specific electoral offences allegedly involved.

The state government, meanwhile, will likely continue to challenge the legality of the operation and defend the SSG.

For the people of Osun State, the bigger issue is the integrity of the electoral process.

Any genuine investigation into electoral malpractice should be conducted transparently and according to the law, while political actors must equally avoid turning unproven allegations into established facts.

The arrest of Teslim Igbalaye has undoubtedly opened another politically charged chapter in Osun State.

Whether it ultimately becomes a legitimate law-enforcement investigation or another flashpoint in the state’s increasingly competitive political landscape will depend largely on what the investigation establishes—and whether due process is allowed to run its course.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has unveiled a 276-member National Campaign Council and a series of specialised subcommittees to coordinate its campaign for the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.

The party named Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as Chairman of the National Campaign Council, signalling a high-level national mobilisation ahead of the keenly anticipated poll.

The composition of the council was contained in a notice signed by the APC National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, and published on the party’s official X handle on Sunday.

Serving alongside Uzodimma as co-chairmen are Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni; President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio; and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, Hon. Ibrahim Kabir Masari, was appointed Deputy Chairman, while the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, will serve as Secretary of the council.

According to the APC, the campaign council brings together prominent party leaders and stakeholders from across the country, including serving governors, members of the National Working Committee, principal officers of the National Assembly, ministers, federal and state lawmakers and other influential party figures.

The broad-based composition is aimed at creating a formidable national campaign structure capable of coordinating the party’s mobilisation and electoral strategy across Osun State.

Beyond the central campaign council, the APC has established specialised subcommittees to handle critical aspects of the election campaign.

The committees will focus on election planning and management; finance and resource mobilisation; contact, grassroots engagement and mobilisation; logistics and campaign management; monitoring and compliance; protocol; media and publicity; security; youth mobilisation; persons with disabilities and other special-interest groups; women’s mobilisation; and secretariat operations.

The structure underscores the APC’s attempt to approach the Osun governorship contest with a coordinated, multi-sectoral strategy, placing emphasis not only on political mobilisation but also on logistics, communications, grassroots engagement, finance, security and election-day coordination.

The party said the inauguration of the National Campaign Council and its various subcommittees is scheduled for Tuesday.

With the August 15 election drawing closer, the unveiling of the 276-member structure effectively marks a major step in the APC’s preparations for the Osun contest, with the party deploying some of its most prominent national figures to spearhead its campaign for victory.

The development is expected to intensify political activities in Osun State as the APC seeks to consolidate its presence and mount a strong challenge in the governorship race.

The political landscape in Rivers State witnessed a major shift on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara publicly reaffirmed his alliance with his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, while endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term and backing Hon. Kingsley Chinda as his preferred governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.

The declaration was made during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Rivers Medical Industry Project in Rumuosi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where the governor announced that the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State had come to an end.

Addressing supporters, Fubara declared that he had fully returned to his political family and urged his followers to embrace the Rainbow Coalition, the political alliance associated with Wike and other groups supporting President Tinubu.

“We have made peace in the state, and I am supporting our Rainbow Coalition,” the governor stated.

Tinubu Gets Fubara’s Endorsement

In one of his strongest political statements since reconciling with Wike, Governor Fubara openly declared his support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

According to him, Tinubu remains the leader they have chosen to support ahead of the next general elections.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is our President, and he’s the one we are supporting,” he said.

Kingsley Chinda Named Preferred Governorship Candidate

The governor also endorsed Hon. Kingsley Chinda as the governorship candidate he intends to support under the Rainbow Coalition.

He urged everyone who believes in his leadership to support candidates presented by the coalition.

“Kingsley Chinda is the governorship candidate that I am supporting. Anybody who believes in me should support every candidate under the Rainbow Coalition,” Fubara declared.

Appeal for Unity

Governor Fubara advised his supporters to stop expecting political rewards before joining the coalition, stressing that he had already completed the reconciliation process with Wike’s political camp.

According to him, politics should now focus on peace and development rather than conflict.

“There is nothing to collect. I am already back in the family. We need to move forward. The time of war is over; it is now time for peace.”

He also warned individuals against using his name to promote political movements outside the Rainbow Coalition.

Political Significance

Fubara’s latest declaration confirms what many political observers had anticipated following his reconciliation with Wike after months of intense political rivalry that polarized Rivers State.

His decision also comes months after he withdrew from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, a move he said followed extensive consultations and personal reflection.

By openly aligning himself with President Tinubu, Wike’s political structure, and the Rainbow Coalition, the Rivers governor has effectively repositioned himself within a broader political alliance expected to play a significant role in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

A major Court of Appeal ruling has dealt a significant blow to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), raising fresh legal questions over the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections and the validity of candidates emerging from its national processes.

Constitutional lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, in an analysis of the judgment, said the Court of Appeal effectively declared the ADC’s national convention a nullity, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for the party’s primaries and candidate selection.

According to Ejimakor, the ruling casts serious doubt on the legitimacy of every nomination that originated from the invalidated national convention, including the party’s presidential ticket.

Atiku’s Candidacy Faces Fresh Legal Questions

Although the ADC has publicly maintained that its 2027 presidential ticket remains intact, Ejimakor argued that the judgment creates considerable legal uncertainty around the candidacy of Atiku Abubakar, who emerged as the party’s presidential standard-bearer through the disputed national process.

He noted that if the convention that produced party decisions has been nullified, nominations arising from that exercise could also become vulnerable to legal challenge.

INEC Restricted From Recognizing Disputed Party Leadership

A central aspect of the judgment, according to Ejimakor, is its implication for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He explained that the electoral commission is now legally restricted from recognizing congresses or activities conducted under the ADC’s disputed national caretaker leadership headed by David Mark.

Instead, he argued that INEC would be expected to conduct its dealings through the party’s duly elected state structures, which the court affirmed as the legitimate organs responsible for organizing state congresses.

According to the legal interpretation, the commission may now adopt a state-first approach, recognizing only activities carried out by constitutionally elected state executives rather than directives issued by the contested national caretaker committee.

Court Upholds Powers of State Chapters

Ejimakor described the judgment as a strong affirmation of the constitutional authority of the ADC’s state chapters.

According to his analysis, the Court of Appeal held that the power to organize state congresses rests exclusively with the party’s elected State Executive Committees and not with the national caretaker leadership.

The court also reportedly affirmed that elected state chairmen are entitled to complete their constitutionally guaranteed four-year tenure, preventing their removal through actions taken by the disputed national leadership.

This aspect of the ruling effectively strengthens the autonomy of state chapters while weakening the authority of the national caretaker committee.

What the Judgment Means for ADC

The decision presents both opportunities and challenges for the opposition party.
On one hand, the affirmation of state executive committees provides a constitutional pathway for organizing congresses and primaries that could receive INEC’s recognition.

On the other hand, the nullification of the national convention raises significant uncertainty over the legality of national-level decisions already taken, including the emergence of candidates for major elective offices.

Political observers believe the judgment could trigger fresh legal battles within the party as stakeholders seek clarity on the status of its national leadership and candidate nomination process.

A Defining Moment Ahead of the 2027 Elections

With political realignments intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Court of Appeal’s decision represents a critical moment for the ADC.

If the legal interpretation advanced by Ejimakor prevails, the party may be compelled to revisit aspects of its internal processes to avoid future disputes over the validity of its candidates.

While the ADC insists that its presidential ticket remains unaffected, the ruling has undoubtedly introduced fresh legal and political questions that could shape the party’s strategy in the months leading to the 2027 polls.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, attention will now turn to INEC, the ADC leadership, and the courts to determine how the judgment will influence the party’s participation in Nigeria’s next general election.

The Labour Party’s Senatorial Candidate for Abia North, Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON, has intensified preparations for the 2027 General Elections with a series of high-profile engagements that combined respect for traditional institutions with a renewed commitment to youth empowerment and community development.

The senatorial hopeful began the day by paying courtesy visits to the Enachioken-in-Council alongside the traditional rulers of the 17 villages of Abiriba before proceeding to the palace of the Udumeze of Ohafia and the 26 Eziogos of Ohafia.

According to Bourdex, the visits were rooted in the long-standing cultural tradition of seeking the blessings, prayers and wise counsel of elders before embarking on significant endeavours. He noted that he appeared before the revered monarchs not only as the Labour Party’s senatorial candidate but, more importantly, as their son seeking fatherly guidance ahead of the 2027 elections.

The traditional rulers reportedly welcomed the delegation warmly and unanimously pledged their goodwill and support to the Labour Party, Governor Alex Otti, Chief Bourdex and other Labour Party candidates across Abia North, particularly those from Ohafia Local Government Area.

Speaking after the meetings, Bourdex described the royal endorsement as both encouraging and inspiring, saying it reinforced his belief that unity between community leaders and elected representatives is essential for sustainable development.

He assured the monarchs that, if elected, he would remain an accessible and accountable representative committed to quality legislation, effective representation and inclusive development across every community in the Abia North Senatorial District.

The day’s activities later shifted to the Ohafia Local Government Headquarters, where the Wife of the Mayor hosted a Youth Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Training Programme.

Addressing participants, Bourdex urged young people to prepare for the future by acquiring practical skills, embracing innovation and pursuing entrepreneurship. He stressed that education, creativity and vocational competence have become indispensable tools for wealth creation and economic growth in today’s rapidly changing

world.

He encouraged the participants to make the most of the training opportunity, shun idleness and social vices, and cultivate the values of discipline, diligence and excellence.

Bourdex also commended the organisers of the programme, including the Wife of the Mayor, Jobberman and the Mastercard Foundation, for investing in the empowerment and future of young people through skills development initiatives.

He further called on Abia youths to continue supporting the administration of Governor Alex Otti, describing the governor’s leadership as a demonstration that purposeful governance can restore public confidence and drive meaningful development.

Expressing gratitude for the support and encouragement he continues to receive across the senatorial district, Bourdex reaffirmed his commitment to working with stakeholders to build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Abia North.

He also expressed confidence that the Labour Party would consolidate its growing support base and perform strongly in the 2027 General Elections.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for a comprehensive investigation following a recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) disclosure that Nigeria excluded public expenditure equivalent to about two per cent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from recent budget documents.

In a statement issued on Saturday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the IMF’s findings as a serious constitutional and governance issue, alleging that they point to a pattern of institutional corruption under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to Atiku, Nigeria’s Constitution requires that all withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund receive approval through the National Assembly’s appropriation process. He argued that any expenditure made outside that framework raises critical questions about accountability and transparency.

“If expenditure amounting to two per cent of Nigeria’s GDP was omitted from the budget process, Nigerians deserve to know who authorised it, who spent it, and who benefited from it,” he stated.

The former Vice President also linked the IMF’s findings to the recent controversy surrounding the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), describing both developments as evidence of what he called a troubling pattern in the management of public finances.

He questioned reports suggesting that while the Federal Ministry of Health received only a fraction of its approved funding for critical healthcare programmes, billions of naira were allegedly allocated to the controversial PFIPC, an agency the Presidency has reportedly denied officially establishing.

Atiku further insisted that government agencies could not have recognised or processed official activities involving such a body without authorisation from the highest levels of government. He therefore called on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to publicly clarify how the agency allegedly gained official recognition.

The former presidential candidate also referred to allegations made by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi, who reportedly claimed that disagreements arose after he refused to approve an alleged 48 per cent kickback request connected to a proposed ₦27.3 billion take-off grant for the council.

Describing the allegation as grave, Atiku urged the Federal Government to institute an independent and transparent investigation.

“If the allegations are false, the government should clear its name through an open investigation. If they are true, every official involved should face the full weight of the law,” he said.

The Waziri of Adamawa further argued that the controversy comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship driven by subsidy removal, rising inflation, increasing electricity tariffs, higher taxes, and continued government borrowing.

He maintained that citizens deserve transparency regarding the management of public resources, warning that confidence in government cannot be sustained where significant public expenditure remains outside official budget records.

Calling on oversight institutions—including the National Assembly, the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC)—Atiku urged them to investigate the IMF’s findings and establish the facts.

He concluded by saying that the issue goes beyond partisan politics, insisting that it concerns constitutional governance, fiscal accountability, and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not issued a formal response to Atiku’s latest remarks regarding the IMF disclosure.

Many people know Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON, as a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader. Yet beyond the public image lies a remarkable story of discipline, sacrifice, vision, and reluctant leadership—a story many in Abia North may not fully know.

Long before politics became part of his life’s journey, Bourdex had already achieved what many spend a lifetime pursuing. Through years of hard work, strategic foresight, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence, he built the Bourdex Group, including Bourdex Telecom, widely recognized as one of the pioneering private digital broadband companies in Eastern Nigeria and among the early indigenous players in the country’s telecommunications landscape. His success brought him financial comfort and influence, making elective politics neither a necessity nor a personal ambition.

For many years, rather than seeking office himself, he supported others who desired to serve. Friends, political associates, and admirers repeatedly encouraged him to contest for public office, believing his experience in building institutions could benefit government. Yet he consistently declined, preferring to contribute quietly from behind the scenes.

What then changed?

Leadership is often born not from ambition but from conviction. As John Quincy Adams observed, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” There comes a time when experience compels responsibility.

Like many citizens, Bourdex became increasingly concerned by what he perceived as the widening gap between the expectations of the people and the quality of representation they received, particularly in the Red Chamber. He believed that leadership should produce measurable development, inspire hope, and restore public confidence. In his view, representation should be defined not merely by occupying a seat but by creating tangible value for constituents.

For him, entering politics was not the pursuit of power; it was the acceptance of responsibility. It was perhaps one of the most difficult decisions of his life. He resisted the call for years, weighing the personal cost, until he concluded that his experience, competence, and commitment could make a meaningful difference for the people of Abia North.

Scripture reminds us in Zechariah 4:10: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” That principle became evident when Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti invited him to serve as the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area.

To some observers, the appointment appeared too modest for someone of his accomplishments. Some friends and critics reportedly urged him to decline, arguing that the office did not reflect his stature. But Bourdex chose humility over pride. He accepted the assignment, believing that no responsibility is insignificant when it offers an opportunity to serve people.

His decision echoed the timeless words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 20:26–27: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” Genuine leadership begins with service.

Supporters point to his approximately eleven months as Mayor as evidence of this philosophy in action, citing initiatives and administrative reforms that, in their view, left a lasting impression on Ohafia Local Government Area. They also note that his performance earned commendation from Governor Alex Otti, reinforcing the belief that effective leadership is measured by impact rather than title.

Today, as Abia North approaches the January 16, 2027 Senatorial election, Bourdex presents himself not as a career politician but as a builder seeking to apply decades of experience in enterprise, administration, and community development to legislative service.

His journey suggests that leadership is not always about those who seek power early; sometimes it is about those who answer the call after succeeding elsewhere, bringing with them proven competence, tested character, and a servant’s heart.

Perhaps that is the Bourdex many people do not yet know—a man who built an empire before seeking office, who chose service over status, and who now believes that the highest investment he can make is not in business, but in the future of the people of Abia North.

As leadership expert Warren Bennis famously said, “Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” The ultimate judgment, however, rests with the people of Abia North, who will decide whether Bourdex’s record, vision, and philosophy of service merit the opportunity to represent them in the Red Chamber.

Hon. Prince Nmaju U. Nmaju is the Media Aide to Chief Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex, MFR, OON

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strengthened his campaign structure ahead of the 2027 general election with the appointment of actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo as his official spokesperson, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has chosen former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as his running mate.

Okonkwo announced his appointment on his official X account on Thursday, expressing gratitude to Atiku for the confidence reposed in him and pledging to serve with wisdom, courage and dedication.

According to him, discussions held with Atiku and key leaders of the ADC focused on safeguarding the interests of the South-East within the framework of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the prevailing political realities.

The former Labour Party chieftain also acknowledged the roles played by Dr. Kashim Imam, former ADC National Chairman Ralphs Nwosu, and Atiku’s Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Dr. Ekene Onwuka, in efforts to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

In his statement, Okonkwo thanked his family, supporters and well-wishers for their prayers and encouragement, asking for continued support as he assumes what he described as a demanding national assignment aimed at building a better Nigeria.

In another significant development, the ADC has officially paired Atiku with former Rivers State Governor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, following Atiku’s emergence as the party’s presidential candidate at its nationwide primary.

The combination of Atiku, Amaechi and Kenneth Okonkwo signals the ADC’s determination to present a formidable political team ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Political observers believe the appointments are aimed at strengthening the party’s national appeal, broadening its regional support base and enhancing its communication strategy as preparations for the polls gather momentum.

The Director General, Greater Ohafia Development Authority (GODA), Elder Engr. Obinna Odum, has called on all Abians to prepare for the forthcoming nationwide voters registration exercise and ensure full participation in support of Governor Alex Otti’s re-election come 2027.

Engr. Odum made the call on Monday August 4, during the monthly meeting of Abia Arise members in Ohafor Ward, held at Atan Town Hall in Asaga Ohafia, Ohafia Local Government Area. He emphasized the critical importance of proactive civic engagement, especially in sustaining the momentum of progressive governance that Abia State is currently experiencing under Governor Otti.

“Governor Otti has proven himself a visionary leader whose achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic revitalization speak volumes. We must not allow our state to fall back into the hands of political jokers,” Odum stated passionately.

“The forthcoming voters registration is a golden opportunity. We must seize it and do the needful, making sure every eligible voter is registered to secure continuity.”

In strong support, Hon. Uchendu Eni, the councilor representing Ohafor Ward, pledged the unwavering loyalty of his constituents to Governor Otti’s administration. He commended the governor’s people-focused leadership and enumerated several development strides already recorded in Ohafor, courtesy of the current administration.

“The dividends of democracy are reaching our people like never before. It is our responsibility to spread the good news of Governor Otti’s achievements beyond Ohafor and ensure it translates into votes come 2027,” Hon. Eni said.

Mr. Morris Ibe, the Abia Arise Coordinator in Ohafor Ward, expressed appreciation to all attendees for their show of support and unity.

“We are grateful for the turnout today. May God guide and bless each of us as we continue to champion good governance in Abia State”, he concluded.

The meeting, which drew a large crowd of grassroots supporters and stakeholders, ended on a note of gratitude and renewed commitment.