With the collapse of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), positioned itself as the “Second Force” and strategic alternative for high-profile politicians.

Opposition politicians have since flooded the party as the most viable alternative outside the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

However, as the 2027 general elections draw closer, the party is no longer just fighting for the ballot, it is fighting itself.

What was intended to be a “mega-coalition” to challenge the Bola Tinubu-led administration has instead become a battleground of tenure disputes and “hijacked” structures.

DAILY POST reports that this crisis has spread its wings down to Ogun, the Gateway state, and many other states of the Federation, thus dividing the party into two factions, with each claiming constitutional legitimacy.

Both factions, which are said to be aligned with the same leadership of David Mark, conducted their congress at the same time, same day, but at different locations in the state.

Two factional chairmen, one publicity secretary emerges

On Saturday, April 11, the party at its secretariat in Abeokuta, held its state executive congress, which returned Femi Soluade as chairman, flanked by Babatunde Adedeji as deputy, Agbebiyi Olusoji as secretary, Yinka Ogunlade as treasurer, Abideen Obanla as PWD leader with Olumide Onabajo as the publicity secretary alongside 18 others.

The congress was conducted and chaired by Moshood Salvador and the swearing-in ceremony was administered by the state legal adviser, Barrister Femi Aina.

However, our correspondent observed that while the congress was ongoing, a parallel congress was also held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta and supervised by national officials led by Chairman of the Congress Committee, Hon. Olatunji Soyinka, the Deputy National Financial Secretary, Hon. Oladimeji Fabiyi, a National Ex Officio, Motunrayo Odumosu, alongside other members of the congresses committee; Bashir Lawal, the secretary and Musa Odujobi, Yemisi Adegoke and Kunle Ashiru.

The congress produced 56 state officers with Emmanuel Famojuro as the state’s party chairman, Adebanjo Olalekan as deputy chairman, Soaga Akintoye as secretary, Sanni Gbenga as treasurer, Olufade Iyanu as the state PWD leader, Bernard Kuyoro as financial secretary and again Onabajo Olumide as the publicity secretary among others.

The congress chairman, Soyinka, who is a former House of Representatives member presented a harmonised list of the new executives, which according to him, reflected the agreement and decisions of all party leaders and sections of the ADC.

“By the power conferred on me, I have accepted, based on the list submitted to our committee, that the new state chairman will be Mr. Emmanuel Famojuro,” Soyinka said, declaring that the congress was conducted “in accordance with the party’s guidelines and constitution.”

“When we came into the state, we gave notice of the congress to all. Anybody that’s not here is on his own, and our decision here is final,” he asserted.

Famojuro-led faction accuses Soluade of backstabbing party

However, the Famojuro-led faction of the party accused Soluade of backstabbing and preventing potential aspirants from joining the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Recall that on the 14th of February, Soluade announced the suspension of Jimi Lawal over alleged anti-party activities and unveiled a caretaker committee to temporarily fill vacant state executive and local government chairmanship positions across the state.

The next day, the party in a rejoinder signed by its publicity secretary, Olumide Onabajo, nullified the purported suspension of Jimi Lawal and passed a vote of no confidence in its chairman, Soluade, suspending him from office for alleged leading armed thugs to disrupt an event organized by Lawal in Abeokuta.

“The Constitution of our great party does not empower the State Chairman, acting unilaterally, to suspend any member of the party— let alone a leader of the stature of H.E. Jimi Lawal.

“Suspension of any member must follow laid-down constitutional procedures, including due process, fair hearing, and ratification by the appropriate organs of the party.

“Furthermore, the State Chairman does not possess unilateral powers to dissolve duly elected executives, appoint caretaker committees, or fill executive positions at the State or Local Government levels without the approval of the constitutionally recognized organs of the party.

“Any such appointments, announcements, suspensions, or restructuring purportedly made are therefore unconstitutional, illegal, and cannot stand.

“The committee particularly condemns in strong terms the incident of Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Intercontinental Hotel, Ibara, where a peaceful gathering was ongoing for the public declaration of the governorship aspiration of Jimi Lawal.

“The State Chairman arrived at the venue, accompanied by armed thugs, disrupted the event and caused serious chaos,” the statement added.

However, the party in another statement on Monday, 16th February, resolved to reinstate Femi Soluade, urging stakeholders and supporters to put past misunderstandings behind them and work collectively towards building a formidable stronger party.

Speaking at the Saturday’s congress, the deputy national financial secretary, Oladimeji Fabiyi, argued that the state leadership under Femi Soluade dragged the party backwards, alleging that he turned the ADC into a marketplace for negotiations rather than a vehicle for governance.

“The outgoing leadership has not done so well for ADC in the state. They have turned the party into a transactional party, where they go about negotiating. In fact, their leadership has sent so many quality aspirants away from running because they didn’t see any hope; they are not inspired.

“The people of Ogun State have been calling on us, saying this situation cannot continue,” he stated.

He added that the party has now set a new direction, expressing optimism that the ADC is ready for renewed growth and success under the new leadership.

Meanwhile, the chairman of the congress committee, insisted that the party would only recognise authentic members and the newly elected executives.

Soyinka described the transition as a step towards victory for the party and expressed confidence in Famojuro’s leadership, arguing that no individual is bigger than the party, predicting a brighter future for the ADC.

“He is someone who will lead Ogun State to where we want it to be. It is green all over the world that ADC is the next government in Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.

‘Kangaroo election, I remain authentic recognized leader’ – Soluade hits back

Soluade declared himself to be the state’s only legitimate and acknowledged party leader. He referred to the congress that elected Famojuro as a “kangaroo election.”

He emphasized that there is no division within the Ogun ADC and any insinuation of a faction is false and aimed at destabilising the party ahead of the next elections.

According to him, the party in Ogun State is still cohesive under his leadership, with a distinct line of command and compliance with the national body’s directions.

Soluade also announced the suspension of a planned mock or shadow inauguration earlier scheduled to hold at the party secretariat, describing the move as a strategic decision.

He clarified that the decision to put the event on hold should not be mistaken for weakness or retreat, but rather a demonstration of discipline and respect for institutional processes.

“It was a kangaroo election. I emerged as the Bonafide State Chairman of ADC. We were duly screened on the 9th of April but jesters were never screened on the 9th April by the national body. All Executives of my cabinet were duly affirmed by consensus and duly sworn in,” he insisted.

He insisted that the party is unwavering and will not allow outside pressure or legal challenges stop it from achieving its goals, cautioning those purportedly attempting to sow conflict inside the party to stop, stressing that such attempts would eventually fail.

Publicity Secretary makes U-turn, aligns with Famojuro

In a twist, Olumide Onabajo, who was initially named in the executive lists of both factions, has formally pledged his loyalty to the Famojuro-led executive.

The move came barely 24 hours after Onabajo issued a statement to our correspondent, validating the congress that returned Soluade as Chairman.

In what observers are calling a significant blow to the Soluade camp, Onabajo described his decision as a product of “careful reflection, consultations, and consideration of prevailing circumstances.”

While expressing gratitude to both sides for recognizing his contributions, he lamented that despite being a long-term loyalist and a key figure in projecting the party’s image since 2020, the Soluade-led team failed to offer him the necessary support, citing a desire for stability and a leadership structure that aligns with his vision for the party’s growth.

His words, “It is no longer news that two parallel congresses were held in Ogun State on Saturday, 11th April, 2026, each producing different outcomes and leadership structures within our great party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“It is also a known fact that both congresses, one chaired by Otunba Dr. Femi Soluade and the other by Mr. Emmanuel Famojuro produced my name as the elected State Publicity Secretary. I sincerely appreciate both sides for recognizing my efforts and the value of my contributions to the party over the years.

“However, at this critical juncture, it has become necessary for me to clearly state my position.

“I have worked tirelessly for the party, particularly during my time in Ajuwon/Akute, Ifo Local Government. Despite my sacrifices, it is evident that key stakeholders, including Hon. Ojerinde Olusola and Comrade Salau, have not demonstrated support or consideration for my efforts.

“This observation also extends to the Otunba Femi Soluade led team. While I will refrain from going into extensive details, I remain confident that my commitment, sacrifices, and personal investments in the party are known to God and to those who have followed my journey.

“After careful reflection, consultations, and consideration of prevailing circumstances, I have made the decision to align with the team led by Mr. Emmanuel Famojuro,” Onabajo stated.

The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to providing adequate security and fostering a safe, peaceful environment conducive for academic excellence across the state.

Ojajuni gave the reassurance on Wednesday when he received the Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta, Prof. Fatiu Arogundade, and his management team at the Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.

He appreciated the Vice Chancellor and his team for the visit, harping on the importance of strengthening collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and academic institutions.

According to him, the visit was necessary to ensure the safety and security of students, staff, and critical infrastructure within the university community.

Meanwhile, the commissioner outlined proactive measures to address security concerns and enhance intelligence sharing between the institution and the Police.

DAILY POST reports that the move comes amid recurring cult clashes in higher institutions across the state.

A defence witness in the ongoing trial of former Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, has admitted before the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, Abuja, that he signed the defendant’s statement dated May 17, 2022.

The witness, Haruna Alabi, made the admission on Tuesday during cross-examination by prosecution counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe, in a trial-within-trial initiated at the instance of the first defendant.

Idris is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside Geoffrey Olusegun Akindele, Mohammed Kudu Usman and Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited on a 14-count charge bordering on alleged stealing and fraudulent diversion of public funds amounting to N109.5 billion.

The court had ordered the trial-within-trial on November 22, 2022, following an application by defence counsel, Chris Uche (SAN), who alleged that his client’s statements were obtained through deception and inducement.

While testifying, Alabi told the court that he visited the EFCC office on May 17, 2022, alongside other directors from the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation to see Idris, who was in the Commission’s custody at the time.
Myself and other directors visited him at the EFCC,” he said.

Alabi further disclosed that he was the only lawyer among the visitors and that he signed at the back of the statement made by Idris on the said date.

However, he admitted that he was neither invited by the EFCC nor had any prior interaction with investigators before the visit.

Under further cross-examination, the witness stated that apart from appending his signature, he neither wrote nor signed any other part of the statement.

He also said he could not confirm whether Idris personally made the statement he endorsed.

When confronted with a portion of the statement which read, “The statement was taken freely and I signed,” Alabi insisted he did not lie, maintaining that he was not present when the statement was made.

Earlier, during his evidence-in-chief led by defence counsel, Kanayo Okafor, the witness identified his name and signature on Exhibit B3, the statement dated May 17, 2022.

Justice Yusuf Halilu subsequently adjourned the matter to June 24, 2026, for continuation of the trial-within-trial and directed the first defendant to ensure the presence of all remaining defence witnesses on the next adjourned date.

Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has nominated and forwarded Murtala Garo to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as the new deputy governor of the State.

This is contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mustapha Muhammad, late Tuesday night.

According to the statement: “The nomination is in line with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the Governor to nominate a Deputy Governor where a vacancy exists.”

DAILY POST reports that the position of the deputy governor became vacant after the resignation of Abdussalam Gwarzo on March 27, 2026.

“Following wide consultations with key stakeholders, the Governor has requested the Assembly to grant the necessary approval for Garo’s nomination,” the statement added.

The New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) has threatened to initiate contempt action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if it fails to comply with court orders within the next seven days.

The party said it will pursue justice and equity to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

A statement signed by its National Secretary, Mr. Ogini Olaposi, explained that INEC’s persistent disobedience to court orders will likely have a negative effect on the election timetable if parties decide to sue the commission.

Olaposi further explained that INEC risks adjustment of the 2027 general elections timetable if it fails to resolve issues around leadership of political parties in accordance with court judgments.

The statement lamented, “INEC’s disobedience to court orders is avoidable. It is disturbing that INEC—an institution led by a Professor of Law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria—should refuse to obey court orders.”

The party’s National Secretary noted that the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory recently delivered a judgment compelling INEC, within 72 hours, to update its records, recognise the Dr. Agbo Major-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the NNPP, and file an affidavit of compliance.

He lamented that three weeks after, the commission has yet to comply, without any credible explanation, saying that what is evident is that time has been running against INEC from the day Honourable Justice Bello Kawu delivered the judgment and the commission was duly served by the court bailiff, and proof of service is properly entered in the court record.

“It, therefore, stands to reason that INEC must accord the NNPP adequate and equal time, like other political parties, to prepare for and participate in the 2027 elections,” the statement observed.

The party called on the attention of the federal government and other critical stakeholders to urgently call INEC to order, so as to prevent any further distortion of the 2027 election timetable.

The party specifically called on the Attorney-General, the Chief Justice of the Federation, and the President of the Nigerian Bar Association to investigate what is going on in INEC.

It noted that the judiciary and the courts must be seen to protect and guide their jurisdiction jealously, to preserve the integrity and authority of the courts, and to ensure that lawful orders are neither ignored nor undermined.

According to him, INEC’s present conduct may constitute a threat to democracy, saying the party is joining other well-meaning Nigerians in calling on the commission to retrace its steps.

He also called for a comprehensive overhaul of the commission, particularly its legal department, to restore credibility and safeguard the nation’s democracy.

Olaposi added that the conduct of the commission at the moment seemed to be against the spirit and letter of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has finally announced plans to drop his resignation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet.

His spokesperson, Bolaji Tunji, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday morning.

He said his resignation is for him to explore his gubernatorial aspiration in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 election.

DAILY POST reports that the minister presided over Nigeria’s failed power sector despite the electricity tariff hike in April 2024.

Recall that in the last months, Nigerians experienced an inadequate electricity supply, which Adelabu acknowledged at different fora without offering actionable solutions.

“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as minister of power in the coming days,” he said.

Meanwhile, checks by DAILY POST showed that the minister promised 6000 megawatts of electricity by the end of last year, but the country battled with between 2500 megawatts and 3500MW for a population of over 250 million persons.

The outgoing Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in the Federal Executive Council, FEC, and contribute to the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dangiwa made the remarks in response to the recent cabinet reshuffle that led to his exit from office alongside the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun. The development was confirmed on Tuesday.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Strategy, Mark Chieshe, the former minister described his tenure as both an honour and a responsibility in national service.

He said he was privileged to have been entrusted with the leadership of reforms in Nigeria’s housing and urban development sector, noting that the experience was deeply fulfilling.

Dangiwa also extended gratitude to members of the FEC, his colleagues in government, heads of housing agencies, development partners, and ministry staff for their cooperation and support throughout his stay in office.

“I wish to sincerely thank Mr President for the confidence he reposed in me to serve as Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development. It has been a rare privilege to contribute to the advancement of policies and programmes aimed at expanding access to affordable housing for Nigerians,” he said.

He noted that under President Tinubu’s leadership, the ministry recorded notable progress in repositioning the housing sector as a key contributor to economic growth, job creation, and social inclusion.

While acknowledging the directive to complete handover procedures in line with the presidential decision, Dangiwa assured that the transition process would be smooth and well-coordinated.

He reaffirmed his continued support for the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda and expressed confidence in the capacity of the incoming leadership to build on existing progress and further accelerate delivery in the sector.

The former minister highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including the rollout of the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, strengthened public-private partnerships in housing delivery, and reforms in land administration and housing finance.

“I am grateful to my colleagues in the Federal Executive Council, stakeholders across the housing value chain, and the dedicated staff members of the Ministry and its agencies for their commitment and hard work. Together, we laid strong foundations for a more structured and sustainable housing delivery system in Nigeria,” he added.

He further pledged continued dedication to national development and support for initiatives aimed at advancing housing, infrastructure, and economic growth in the country.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has raised the alarm over what it described as fake sting operations being carried out by impersonators across major cities in Nigeria.

The commission raised the alarm in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Head, Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale.

The statement revealed that several ingenious but fraudulent means are being employed by those described as “dark characters” to besmirch the reputation of the EFCC.

Buttressing the claim, the commission said there is a gang of fraudsters now operating around popular Eateries or fun spots in major cities across the country.

“Their modus operandi is laying ambush for innocent youths coming out of the Eateries and harassing them on unfounded suspicions of being internet fraudsters and dispossessing them of their valuables.

“These characters usually portray the identities of authentic EFCC officers by dressing in fake uniforms and moving their victims to locations bearing fictitious resemblance to an EFCC office.

“There is also a gang of itinerant criminals harassing innocent motorists on the identities of their number plates. These ones wield dangerous weapons to compel their victims to offer them money on trumped-up accusations.

“There is yet another tribe of online impersonators and fraudulent content creators dramatizing fake sting operations of the EFCC with evidence of broken doors, windows and forced entrance into their premises.

“Such uncharacteristic portrayals of the EFCC could deceive unsuspecting members of the public into holding the Commission and its officers culpable of contrived actions of impersonators”, the statement added.