WAFFI TV | Politics

Rivers, Bayelsa Will Join APC~ Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Saturday suggested that Rivers and Bayelsa states could soon align with the All Progressives Congress (APC). He made the remark during a grand reception held to formally welcome Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno into the APC. Akpabio expressed optimism that the party would secure a clean sweep of the South-South region in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. According to Akpabio: “Governor Sheriff of Delta State thank you for joining the progressive family and moving the South South in a progressive direction. “Governor Umo Eno, after you, Rivers State will just tumble, after Rivers State, Bayelsa will join. “We won election with Governor Otu in Edo State and we produced an amiable Monday Okpebholo, congratulations once again for your victory.” In April, Governor Umo Eno signaled his intention to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal crises within the PDP as the reason for his planned defection. He made the move official on June 6 during a ceremony in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. The event drew a large turnout, including members of the Progressive Governors Forum and several top chieftains of the ruling party.

6/21/2025, 5:14:20 PM

Rivers Council Administrator Resigns Amid Alleged Coercion

A new controversy is brewing in Rivers State following the sudden resignation of Goodluck Ihemnacho, the appointed Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Area. Ihemnacho, one of the 23 LG administrators appointed by the state’s Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, announced his resignation in a letter dated June 20, 2025, addressed to the Sole Administrator. The letter, which has since circulated widely on social media, cited his decision to return to private life as the reason for stepping down. In the message, he thanked the government and people of Ahoada East for the privilege to serve. He wrote, “I humbly write to your noble office to convey to you my resignation as the Administrator, Ahoada East LGA… My sincere gratitude goes to the government of Rivers State and the good people of Ahoada East for finding me worthy to serve… from 11th day of April 2025 to 20th day of July 2025.” His resignation, however, has raised more questions than answers. Sources close to the situation suggest that Ihemnacho may have been compelled to resign under pressure. One source, speaking anonymously, alleged that a group of unidentified men invaded the Ahoada East council secretariat, physically assaulted him, and coerced him into signing the resignation letter. Fueling the controversy, observers have flagged a puzzling detail in the letter—the dates mentioned extend to July 20, despite the resignation being dated June 20. Following the incident, the secretariat was reportedly sealed off, with police now said to be in control of the premises. Speculation is also swirling that Ihemnacho’s exit could be tied to plans to run in the upcoming local government elections. Though unconfirmed, the theory suggests he may have stepped aside strategically to pursue electoral ambitions. Regardless of the true motive, the development marks the first visible fracture in the Ibas-led interim local government structure, barely three months after it was instituted. The incident may be an early sign of deeper tensions within the state's already volatile political environment.

6/21/2025, 7:44:40 AM

Atiku, El~Rufai Coalition Seeks INEC Registration For New Party

The National Opposition Coalition Group, spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has formally submitted an application to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register a new political party- the **All Democratic Alliance (ADA).** The application, dated June 19, was officially acknowledged by INEC on Friday, underscoring the coalition’s resolve to establish a fresh political platform rather than merge with any existing party. The proposed ADA is supported by several influential political figures, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and Umar Ardo, convener of the League of Northern Democrats and a former aide to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo. The move is seen as a strategic response to growing public discontent and shifting political allegiances aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in the next general election. This development comes shortly after INEC cautioned aspiring political groups that no degree of public pressure or sentiment would override the constitutional and procedural requirements for party registration. The commission emphasized that registering a political party involves a rigorous legal process, not just a political proclamation. With Thursday’s submission, the opposition coalition has ended weeks of speculation over whether it would revive an existing political structure or establish a new entity. A copy of the application, obtained by our correspondent in Abuja, was jointly signed by the coalition’s Protem National Chairman, Chief Akin A. Rickets, and Protem National Secretary, Abdullahi Elayo. The letter partly read, “We respectfully write to the Independent National Electoral Commission, requesting the registration of our association, the All Democratic Alliance, as a political party. “This is a sequel to the decision taken by the Nigerian National Coalition Group to sponsor our association for full registration. “The name of the party shall be All Democratic Alliance with ADA as our acronym and ‘Justice for All’ as our slogan.” The coalition also submitted relevant documents, including the party’s constitution, manifesto, logo, and minutes of its foundational meetings. The party’s symbol prominently features a maize (corn), which the applicants say represents abundance, resilience, and sustenance—core ideals they hope to promote. “We have further attached our manifesto encompassing details of our party ideology and our constitution providing the legal framework that defines our identity, structures, and organisation,” the letter continued.

6/20/2025, 6:34:56 PM

2027: Tinubu Will Choose His Running Mate After APC Convention~ Onanuga

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, has stated that President Bola Tinubu will decide on his running mate for the 2027 election after the next convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He made this known in an interview with *Daily Trust* while addressing recent speculations suggesting that President Tinubu may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 polls. The rumours gained traction after some speakers at the APC stakeholders summit in Gombe endorsed President Tinubu for a second term without acknowledging Shettima. The omission stirred controversy and led to a disruption of the event, as delegates raised concerns over the Vice President’s exclusion from the endorsement. When asked why the presidency has not reacted to the allegation, Onanuga dismissed the subject as a “non-issue,” saying that in a presidential system, the presidential candidate is nominated before a running mate is selected. Onanuga said, “That’s what happened under Buhari; he was nominated first and later picked his running mate. You don’t do both at once. “Once INEC releases the timetable, the party convention will hold, and if the president is nominated again, he will choose his running mate.” The presidential spokesperson also dismissed the speculation of a rift between President Tinubu and Shettima as ‘a beer palour gist’, saying he is not aware of it. “I’m not aware of any issues between the president and the vice president. From what I know, they have an excellent working relationship. All the speculation is just beer parlour gossip,” he said. “People even say ridiculous things like Seyi Tinubu is the vice president. Absolute nonsense. “In this country, deputy roles, whether deputy governor or vice president, are always surrounded by rumours. Even when there’s no conflict, people around them will concoct stories. But as far as I know, Tinubu and Shettima work together very well.” Onanuga also rejected the insinuation that Tinubu’s relationship with former deputies during his stint as Lagos governor is an ominous sign for Shettima. “That’s just speculation. Yes, when he was governor, there were issues. In his first term, he and his deputy, Kofo, didn’t get along, and she had to leave,” Onanuga said. “Femi Pedro replaced her. In the second term, he retained Pedro, but Pedro later defected — he wanted to be governor. That’s why he had to go. I don’t want to reopen old wounds, but that’s what happened. “So, it’s wrong to say he has a pattern of discarding deputies. There were specific political circumstances each time. That’s what I’m explaining.”

6/20/2025, 1:49:19 PM

Okrenkoko Federated Communities Welcomes New Executive Council In Grand Swearing~In Ceremony

It was a day of celebration, cultural pride, and renewed unity in Okrenkoko Federated Community as residents turned out in large numbers to witness the official swearing-in of a new executive council. The ceremony, held on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, marked a historic milestone for the community, as Amb. Chief Mosco Johnny (JP) took the oath of office as Chairman, leading a team of ten other distinguished individuals entrusted with steering the affairs of the community. The new executive council comprises: Amb. Chief Mosco Johnny (JP) – Chairman Barry Maware Sokoto – Vice Chairman Henry Hope B.M.W Bubor – Secretary General Ikare Christmas James – Assistant Secretary Goddy London Sapele – Financial Secretary Dickson Agagha Pounds – Treasurer Mr. Jonathan Yoghaye – Chief Auditor Jacob Yoghaye – Chief Organizer Ijeleba Emmanuel – Assistant Organizer Governor Stanley – Public Relations Officer Denwei Kpenfe Roman – Assistant Public Relations Officer Speaking shortly after taking the oath, Amb. Chief Mosco Johnny, who is also the Soweibiwei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, described the moment as one of the most fulfilling in the community’s history. He commended the elders, stakeholders, and members of the community for their support throughout the transition process. “We may come from different walks of life, but today we are united in purpose. We are here to serve with integrity, to protect our culture, and to chart a new course for progress and unity,” Chief Johnny said. He further called for sustained cooperation from all residents, stressing that “the campaign season is over; now is the time to build.” Dignitaries present at the event included: H.E. Barr. Kingsley B. Otuaro, Immediate Past Deputy Governor of Delta State High Chief P.T. Heavens High Chief Dan Ekpegide Chief Comrade Sheriff Mulade, Environmental Specialist Chief Vote Atapopere Rt. Hon. Samuel I. Ekpemupolo, Leader of the Warri South-West Legislative Arm …and a host of other respected leaders and community members. The swearing-in ceremony was complemented by vibrant cultural performances, traditional drumming, and spirited dancing — a true reflection of the unity and joy within the community. As the new leadership takes charge, expectations are high for inclusive development, cultural preservation, and improved welfare for all indigenes and residents of Okrenkoko.

6/20/2025, 11:48:11 AM

It’s Impossible For Tinubu To Win 2027 Election~ El~Rufai

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands no chance of winning re-election in 2027. Speaking in an interview circulated on X, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) chieftain argued that anyone who believes otherwise is out of touch with the realities on ground in Nigeria. El-Rufai stated that Nigerians have lost confidence in both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu, making it unlikely that they will support them in the next general election. This assertion comes despite repeated assurances from the Tinubu administration that current hardships will soon ease. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reiterated this during a Wednesday appearance on Channels Television, highlighting efforts by the government to stabilize and grow the economy. El-Rufai said, “Anybody that thinks it is possible for President Bola Tinubu to get re-elected is living in another country, not Nigeria. It is impossible for Bola Tinubu to get re-elected.” The former governor and political ally of President Bola Tinubu stated that there is no pathway for the former Lagos State governor. He said that even the weakest opposition would defeat Tinubu because Nigerians are unhappy with APC and the policies of the current administration. “I don’t see a pathway for him,” he said. El-Rufai maintained that those defecting to the ruling party do not matter, insisting that the real target of SDP and its emerging coalition are the voters. “It is greedy and hungry politicians and those that are looking for money, contract, appointment, office that are defecting,” he added. “The other class of those defecting are those that know that the EFCC or ICPC can intimidate them, because they know what they have done if they have done what is not quite right. “And this is what I think the SDP and the coalition of political parties or grouping that we are working with is targeting. We believe that the 2027 elections will be between the APC and Nigerians.” El-Rufai, who supported the election of Bola Tinubu in 2023, is now a member of SDP and is fronting a coalition against the current administration. El-Rufai, alongside the likes of former Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, among others, are leading the coalition to remove President Bola Tinubu through the ballot in 2027.

6/20/2025, 7:33:28 AM

Ex~VP Namadi Sambo Denies Defection To APC, Pledges Loyalty To PDP

Former Vice President Namadi Sambo has denied claims that he has left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). The speculation, which gained traction on Wednesday, stemmed from a circulated photograph showing Sambo alongside Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani. However, in a statement released on Thursday by his media adviser, Umar Sani, the former Vice President dismissed the reports, clarifying that the photo in question is old. Sani emphasized that Sambo remains a committed and loyal member of the PDP and has no plans to defect to any other party. “My attention has been drawn to a widely circulated story alleging that His Excellency, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, GCON, former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This claim is entirely false and without any basis. “Following numerous calls and inquiries, I have taken the liberty on the authority of His Excellency’s family to issue this formal rebuttal. I categorically state that the story is a fabrication, laced with mischief and aimed at misleading the public. “The photograph supporting this falsehood, showing His Excellency with the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, is not recent. It was taken years ago during a condolence visit by the Governor to His Excellency’s residence in Abuja, following the demise of his brother, the late Sani Sambo. The image is now being deliberately misrepresented to fit a contrived narrative. “Furthermore, His Excellency is scheduled to attend the commissioning of a 300-bed hospital in Kaduna on Thursday, 19th June 2025. This project, which he initiated during his time in office, stands as a testament to his enduring commitment to public service and the development of Kaduna State.

6/19/2025, 3:27:46 PM

INEC Rejects PDP’s NEC Meeting Notice, Gives Reason

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) notice for its upcoming 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, citing procedural non-compliance. In a letter dated June 13, 2025, and addressed to the PDP National Chairman, INEC stated that the notice lacked the required endorsement. The letter, signed by INEC’s Acting Secretary, Hajiya Hau’ru Aminu, noted that the notification failed to meet the requirements set out in the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties. INEC specifically referenced Part 2(12)3, which mandates that “the National Chairman and National Secretary of the Party shall jointly sign the notice of convention, congress, conference or meeting and submit same to the Commission.” The letter reads partly: “The Commission draws your attention that the notice is not in compliance… Be guided.” On May 30, 2025, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) notified INEC of its intention to hold its NEC meeting at the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja. Although the notice was submitted within the legally required 21-day window, it was signed solely by the Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, without the mandatory co-signature of the National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu.

6/18/2025, 8:07:41 AM

APC Delta South Senatorial Chairman, Hon. Austin Oribioye, Leads APC LGA Chairmen on Courtesy Visit To Chief Emman Amgbaduba

In a significant move aimed at strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta South Senatorial District, the APC Delta South Senatorial Chairman, Hon. Austin Oribioye, on Saturday led eight APC Local Government Chairmen on a courtesy visit to the immediate past Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta South, Chief Emman Amgbaduba, who recently joined the APC. The high-powered delegation was warmly received by Chief Emman Amgbaduba at his Kotokoto residence in Udu, in what political observers may described as a strategic alignment to reposition the APC ahead of future elections. Speaking during the visit, Hon. Austin Oribioye commended Chief Amgbaduba for taking the bold step to join the APC, noting that his wealth of experience, wide grassroots network, and political sagacity are valuable assets to the party. He emphasized that the visit was to tap into his vast knowledge in party administration and political mobilization. "Chief Amgbaduba is a tested and trusted political leader whose contributions to Delta politics cannot be overlooked. His decision to join the APC is a major boost to our party, and we are here to learn from his experience and to begin charting a new course that will unite and uplift all members of the APC in Delta South," Hon. Oribioye stated. On his part, Chief Emman Amgbaduba, who is also the former, Delta State Commissioner for Oil and Gas, expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed his commitment to working with the APC to ensure inclusive growth and political cohesion in the senatorial district. "I am deeply honored by this visit. It shows a spirit of unity and forward-thinking leadership within the APC. I have come to the APC with an open heart, ready to serve, support, and work with the leadership to build a formidable structure that accommodates both old and new members. Together, we will chart a course that benefits not just the party but the entire Delta South," Chief Amgbaduba said. The meeting which also had in attendance the immediate past State Auditor of PDP who is now an APC member , Pastor Arex Akemotubo, ended with mutual assurances of collaboration, inclusiveness, and commitment to repositioning the APC as a stronger force in Delta South politics.

6/14/2025, 4:43:42 PM

Peter Obi Betrayed Me~ Kenneth Okonkwo

Nollywood actor and former spokesperson for the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Campaign Council, Kenneth Okonkwo, has accused Peter Obi of betrayal over the party’s ongoing internal crisis. In a widely circulated interview with Symfoni that began trending on Saturday, Okonkwo, who officially exited the Labour Party in February 2025, revealed that Obi ignored his counsel by siding with the embattled Julius Abure-led faction — a decision he described as a personal betrayal. “Any politician that knows what he’s doing cannot be betrayed by another. If there is anybody that betrayed the other, I can say it emphatically that Peter Obi betrayed me,” Okonkwo declared. He alleged that Obi was misled by Labour Party executives who falsely claimed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had recognised their faction. Despite Okonkwo’s warnings, Obi returned to support the group. “The Julius Abure-led LP members lied to Obi that the Independent National Electoral Commission had accepted them and Obi surreptitiously went back to them,” Okonkwo said. “But I told him: ‘Sir, you have made a public statement on integrity and even if INEC has accepted them, that is not a criterion for you to go back and start dealing with them because they have shown that they are not democratic. If you go back to them, they will destroy your political career and everything you have said about integrity will die.’” Okonkwo said he made private efforts to dissuade Obi from engaging with the group, which he described as “undemocratic” and “agents of the government.” “I told Obi that these people had become agents in the hands of the government to destabilise him. What they did was absolutely illegal and unconstitutional. I told him that if he went back to them, I wouldn’t join him in doing so. “Thereafter, I called all the people that were in the inner circle and told them the same thing about what Obi was trying to do. I told them he wanted to go back with the Abure people and if he did, I wouldn’t go back with him because I do not swallow back my words,” he said. According to Okonkwo, Obi eventually visited the Abure-led faction’s office and publicly endorsed them, a move which shocked him. He revealed that members of the faction even sent him a video of the endorsement to mock him. “And after saying all those things, within like 72 hours, Obi went back to Abure’s office to publicly endorse them and while he was there talking to them, one of the leaders in that executive sent me the video to mock me that the person I was fighting for against them has come to their office to endorse them. “It was when INEC dissociated itself from Abure that Obi came out to start acting neutral but I told him he could not be neutral and something had to be done,” he added.

6/14/2025, 4:35:13 PM

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