Politics
Shekarau: LND to Brainstorm on Future of Northern Region
The League of Northern Democrats (LND), a group of politicians comprising former governors, senators, and other prominent figures from the northern region of Nigeria, are coming together for a pivotal summit focused on revitalising the region’s political and economic power ahead of the 2027 elections.
This was revealed in Abuja on Tuesday during a gathering of the members, including traditional rulers, to discuss issues related to the region.
The central theme of the initiative, set to be officially announced at a summit in Kaduna, revolves around addressing the region’s political trajectory, economic growth and security issues.
Speaking on the plan for a northern summit on Tuesday, the Protem Chairman of the LND and former governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, said, “The LND resolved to organise a Northern Nigerian Political Summit, to be held in Kaduna.
“This summit will serve as a platform for discussing the region’s political future, economic development, and security challenges. It will bring together key leaders, thinkers, and influencers to chart a new course for the North.”
In an interview with journalists on the sidelines of the meeting, Shekarau expressed the group’s concern about the progress of the region.
He said the group intended to evaluate the challenges confronting the North, particularly security issues, and create a document detailing possible solutions to tackle the problems.
“We came together to analyse and review the problem bedevilling the northern part of Nigeria. We said we need to embark on general societal reorientation, to enlighten the people on what are their basic challenges and their basic needs.
“It is apolitical though. It is not about any person or any political party, and it is necessarily not about 2027. It is an all-time issue. We want to produce a document, which is not about a year, two-year, or 10-year issue.
“The whole idea is to produce a document that we can confront anybody seeking our votes that these are the aspirations of our people and we want you to assure us that this will be part of your guiding principles.”
In a communiqué jointly signed by the convener, Umar Ardo, and the interim secretary, Emmanuel Jime, the LND announced its resolution to unify the North and reestablish it as a dominant force in national politics.
To achieve this, the group planned to invite prominent northern stakeholders, including former heads of state, current and former vice presidents, and former Senate presidents to rally support for the initiative.
According to the communique, the LND would engage with past Speakers of the House of Representatives, former security chiefs, and other influential figures to gather widespread backing for their efforts.
“The LND resolved to prioritise the political unity of Northern Nigeria. Recognising the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity.
“This unity will serve as the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape,” it stated.
Politics
APC Postpones House of Representatives Primary to Saturday
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has postponed its House of Representatives primary election for the 2027 General Elections to Saturday, May 16, 2026.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the party said the adjustment affects only the House of Representatives primary, while the dates for other primaries remain unchanged.
According to the new timetable released by the APC:
- House of Representatives Primary: Saturday, 16th May, 2026
- Senate Primary: Monday, 18th May, 2026
- State House of Assembly Primary: Wednesday, 20th May, 2026
- Governorship Primary: Thursday, 21st May, 2026
- Presidential Primary: Saturday, 23rd May, 2026
The party assured stakeholders that the shift was necessary and that all other arrangements for the primaries would proceed as planned.
Politics
Makinde to declare presidential ambition on Thursday
The event, tagged “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026”, is expected to serve as the official launch of Governor Makinde’s anticipated 2027 presidential bid, alongside the unveiling of a grand political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM)…
Governor Seyi Makinde is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition on Thursday, 14 May, during a major political rally scheduled to hold at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.
The event, tagged “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026”, is expected to serve as the official launch of Governor Makinde’s anticipated 2027 presidential bid, alongside the unveiling of a grand political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), as well as candidates aligned with the emerging coalition being championed by the Oyo State governor and his loyalists.
Reports indicate that preparations for the rally have intensified amid growing political realignments within Oyo State and the wider South-West region.
Several grassroots mobilisers, political associates and loyalists of Governor Makinde are reportedly making strategic moves as consultations over a broader political structure continue to gather momentum.
Politics
APC Warns Aspirants Against Violence, Anti-Party Activities Ahead of Primaries
The All Progressives Congress National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has urged all aspirants contesting on the platform of the party to maintain discipline, maturity, and sportsmanship ahead of the 2027 party primaries.
In a statement, Yilwatda said that the APC remains committed to conducting transparent, peaceful, and credible primaries capable of strengthening internal democracy and sustaining public confidence in the ruling party.
Yilwatda warned that the party leadership would not tolerate acts capable of disrupting the primaries, including violence, unrest, anti-party activities, or attempts to compromise the integrity of the process.
He stressed that any aspirant or supporter found culpable would face severe sanctions, including suspension from the party, adding that no personal ambition should override the collective interest of the APC and national stability.
The APC chairman reminded aspirants that democratic contests naturally produce winners and non-winners, urging all contestants to accept the outcome of the primaries in good faith.
According to him, democracy thrives on healthy competition, mutual respect, and acceptance of results, while aspirants must see themselves as ambassadors of the party whose conduct should reflect the values and vision of the APC.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting unity within the party, and called on party members and stakeholders to support the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and avoid divisive actions capable of overheating the political environment or undermining progress already recorded by the administration.
Highlighting achievements of the Tinubu administration, the APC chairman pointed to ongoing investments in road infrastructure, rail transportation, energy, agriculture, healthcare, technology, and the solid minerals sector.
He noted that the administration’s reforms are aimed at repositioning Nigeria for long-term economic growth, job creation, food security, and the attainment of a one trillion dollar economy through strategic investments and industrial expansion.
-
News3 days agoEFCC Invasion Forces Uni. Uyo Teaching Hospital to Suspend Operations (Video)
-
Sports3 days agoUS Relaxes Visa Rules to Boost Travel for 2026 FIFA World Cup
-
News1 day agoAnxiety as chemical pollution affects 6 Ogun schools, 90 students
-
Business2 days agoBUA Chairman Rabiu shares South Africa visa entry denial experience at Africa CEO Forum
-
News2 days agoNJC Recommends Elevation of 12 Judges to Court of Appeal, Includes Omotosho and Nwite
-
Crime2 days agoWoman Jailed 20 Years for Transporting 302 AK-47 Rounds to Bandits
-
News2 days agoNJC Suspends Two Judges for One Year Without Pay
-
Entertainment2 days agoNFVCB Approves 304 Nollywood’s New Films
