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“We Are Battle-ready, Soon We Will Disclose Details Of Agreement Reached With Fubara” – Wike

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Siminalayi Fubara and Niyesom Wike

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has finally revealed the major reason for his renewed wave of attacks on Governor Siminalayi Fubara of late.

The immediate past Governor of Rivers state who on Wednesday December December, 31, 2025, informed that he is now fully battle-ready, accused his estranged political godson of virtually throwing overboard all the terms of the agreement brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This is as he vowed to give an insight into the details of the agreement between his camp and that of Governor Fubara in the days ahead.

The Source reports that the President shortly before the expiry of the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State brokered a truce between Wike group and the camp of Governor Fubara.

Although details of the so-called agreement are not yet in the public domain, it is, however, strongly believed that part of the terms include the part barring the Governor from seeking re-election in 2027.

But since announcing his defection to the All Progressive Congress APC a couple of weeks back , every steps and actions of the Governor have pointed to one ready to throw his hat into the ring.

The disposition of Governor Fubara towards seeking re-election, many observers believe, has remain at the root of Wike’s belligerent posture since last weekend, with his insistence that  “agreement must be respected”.

“You know me, I believe in agreement is agreement. Anything you know that you cannot do, don’t enter into it.

” Let me inform you; we will start real politics by January 2026. We will start real politicking then.

“I believe in people fulfilling agreements reached. Agreement is an agreement, no matter what. Anything you know you cannot do, don’t promise to do it .

“Nobody can use us to achieve something, and then turn around to renege on the agreement made. For me, whatever you agreed in the morning, you should also be ready to agree at night.

“So, don’t be worried and scared by the later day Tinubu supporters who are busy going about shouting  “on your mandate we stand”. We shouted when it mattered most”, Wike told Stakeholders at the Ahoada West/Ahoada East meeting.

Speaking on Wednesday,  in continuation of his thank-you-visit to Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State, Wike told the people that very soon he will reveal details of  the truce between him and Governor Fubara.

“After agreeing on something, you renage. And you think you are a smart politician. You are just being clever by half.

“Very soon, we will let Rivers people know what we agreed before Mr President. This agreement was not done anywhere else. It was made before Mr President

“So, if you can renege on what we agreed before Mr President ,then who are we?

“Look, we are battle-ready. We were the original mandate people. Don’t deal with people who cannot keep to agreements. And they tell you it is politics. That politics will not work here again.

“If they like, let them keep all the money in the coffers of the state. Whether they have N600 billion or more does not matter. We have defeated people with money before.

“We will still defeat people with money . What matters is the people, it is not money”, the FCT Minister boasted.

Atiku Welcomes Obi To ADC, Says Move Will Strengthen Opposition

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Peter Obi Joins ADC
Mr Peter Obi

By Ayodele Oni

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed optimism that Peter Obi’s entry into the African Democratic Congress, (ADC), would strengthen opposition politics and lay the groundwork for a government capable of delivering prosperity and peace to Nigerians.

The former vice president welcomed the official declaration of Obi, into the ADC, describing the development as a significant moment in the history of political coalitions in Nigeria.

Atiku made the remarks on Wednesday, in a statement shared on his verified Facebook handle.

“Today marks a significant moment in the history of political coalitions in our country, with the official declaration of my brother and associate, Peter Obi, into the African Democratic Congress (ADC).”

The former PDP presidential candidate said he was pleased to officially welcome the former LP presidential candidate Obi into the party, stressing that their collaboration would help foster a “virile opposition” that can effectively challenge the ruling party and offer Nigerians a credible alternative.

“It is my pleasure to welcome him officially, as we look forward to a robust working relationship that will foster a virile opposition, one that will ultimately form a government capable of bringing prosperity and peace to our people,” he added.

Atiku also referenced the symbolic take-off of what he described as the “ADC Coalition train” from Enugu, the capital of the South-East zone, noting that the choice of location underscored the coalition’s national outlook and inclusive agenda.

“And as the ADC Coalition train leaves Enugu, the capital of the Southeast region, I hope this inspires other patriots to join the cause with the train headed in their direction,” he said.

Peter Obi has formally defected to the ADC, alongside several prominent political leaders from the South-East geopolitical zone.

Obi said the move to the ADC was part of a broader effort to forge a united opposition platform capable of working with like-minded leaders across the country to “rescue Nigeria from the poor governance of the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

Dignitaries at the event included former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; Senators Ben Obi, Victor Umeh, Tony Nwoye and Gilbert Nnaji; Chief Onyema Ugochukwu; Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; Senator Sam Egwu, as well as several serving and former members of the National Assembly.

Also in attendance were leaders from other parts of the country, including former Senate President and national chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark; former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; former governors from the South-East, and other political heavyweights.

Senator Abaribe Dumps APGA For ADC

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Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe

By Adesina Soyooye

The representing Abia South, Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe has officially dumped the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)  for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The vocal Senator announced his defection from APGA to ADC Wednesday, December 31, 2025. His defection ends weeks of speculation over his political future.

He explained that his decision was informed by the “irreconcilable differences with the leadership and direction of APGA.”

In his opinion,  the ADC offered a more credible platform which aligns with his “political ideals and commitment to democratic accountability.”

Abaribe: “After wide consultations, I have taken the decision to formally resign from APGA and align with the African Democratic Congress, which provides a clearer vision for good governance and national renewal.”

Senator Abaribe said Nigeria needs a strong and principled opposition that will offer citizens “a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 general election.”

Abaribe’s relationship with APGA has been strained in the past few months.

The Senator was a former Deputy Governor of Abia State under the Government of now Senator Orji Kalu. After a a very untidy relationship, he became a Senator under the umbrella of the Peoples Democratic Party, but defected to APGA in the run-up to the 2023 Senatorial election and beat then incumbent Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu who vied for the same seat.

APC Warns Wike Off Party, Accuses Him Of Creating Tension In Party

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Nyesom Wike - FCT Minister
Nyesom Wike.

By Ayodele Oni

The All Progressives Congress (APC)  has warned former Rivers State governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to stay clear of the internal affairs of the party.

This warning followed Wike’s recent interview in which he reportedly made disparaging remarks about the APC, claiming there is nothing like “001” in the party and insisting that there is “no land in politics.”

APC also advised Wike to either concentrate fully on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he officially belongs, or formally join the APC, if he wishes to participate in its affairs—making it clear that the party operates by strict rules and discipline.

The party called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the leader of the APC and the nation, to call Wike to order and caution him against actions capable of creating internal tension within the party.

In the same interview, Wike was accused of attempting to downplay and ridicule the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara with whom he is currently locked in a political rivalry.

According to Wike, “there’s nothing like 001. There’s nothing like I have registered in the state as 001. Everybody registered in their own ward.

You could be the first person to register, but that’s not your position.”

On Fubara being the leader of the party in Rivers State, Wike said: “I don’t know about that because if he says so, who is the leader of APC in Lagos State?

APC leaders insist that such comments are unacceptable and provocative, warning that the party will not tolerate external interference or disrespect, regardless of political influence or position.

Two Dead, Four Others Still Trapped In Kebbi Rice Mill Collapse

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Kebbi Rice Mill Collapse

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Police Command in Kebbi State has assured of a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse of a rice parboiling mill in Bulasa area of the State.

The Source reports that a substantial portion of the popular Niagri Rice Production Firm located in Bulasa area of Birni-Kebbi the state capital in the wee hours of Tuesday caved in leading to the death of two persons, with one injured victim, and four others still trapped in the collapsed factory.

A statement on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from the Kebbi State Police Command Spokesperson Bashir Usman CSP, informed that the Commissioner of Police, while on an on-the-spot assessment visit to the scene  lauded the efforts of the combined team of rescuers comprising the Police ,the state and Federal Fire Services, and others for their swift intervention and commitment to the rescue operations.

“As at the time of the visit (CP’s visit) ,two persons who were earlier evacuated were confirmed dead by medical doctors.

“One injured victim has been treated and discharged, while four others were still trapped, with rescue efforts ongoing”, the police stated .

This is as the CP assured of enhanced security around the affected area with a promise to commence  investigations into the  unfortunate incident as soon as rescue operations are concluded.

According to Usman, the state Police Commissioner also extended the Command’s condolences to the families, relations, and friends of the victims, with an assurance of rescuing trapped persons.

Although it is not yet clear the extent of the damage recorded in the incident, but it is  strongly believed that several millions of Naira worth of  equipment may have been destroyed in the process.

Rivers: Gov. Fubara Reshuffles Cabinet

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Siminalayi Fubara
Governor Siminalayi Fubara

By Ayodele Oni

The Rivers State Government, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a  reshuffle of the State Executive Council.

The announcement, seen as a strategic move aimed at bolstering the administrative efficiency of the State, also marks a significant shift in the State’s legal and administrative leadership.

Barrister Christopher Green formerly in the ministry of sports, now moves to the Ministry of Justice as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

The official directive was communicated via a statement issued by Dr Honour Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications.

According to the statement, the Governor’s decision is designed to optimise the performance of key ministries as the administration enters a new phase of governance.  Barrister Green will still continue to coordinate activities of the Ministry of Sports.

He will oversee the later’s affairs in an acting capacity until such time as a substantive Commissioner is appointed. The realignment has been ratified during the final State Executive Council meeting of 2025.

Observers suggest the timing of the redeployment underscores Governor Fubara’s resolve to enter the forthcoming year with a strengthened legal framework and a renewed commitment to seamless service delivery for the people of Rivers State.

The statement noted that the redeployment takes immediate effect, reflecting the urgency with which the Governor seeks to harmonise the state’s legal strategies and executive functions.

Obi Leads South-East Senators, Politicians To ADC

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Peter Obi leads South East Senators to ADC

By Ayodele Oni

As alignment among politicians ahead of 2027 election continues, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, led several prominent political figures from the South-East  formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Obi led the group of leaders who made their decision public in Enugu, the Enugu State capital, on Wednesday.

The gathering brought together politicians from the South-East and other parts of the country, signaling a broader coalition beyond regional lines.

Among those who joined the ADC are a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, the Interim National Chairman of the ADC, Senator David Mark, and a former Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, ((PDP), Senator Ben Obi.

Others present include the Senator representing Anambra Central, Victor Umeh, the Senator representing Sokoto Central and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, as well as a former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa. Several other political stakeholders were also in attendance.

Speaking during the event, the leaders said their decision followed months of wide consultations with supporters, party leaders, and political associates across the country.

They explained that the move was driven by the need to build a strong and united opposition.

They stated that they had resolved to work together under the ADC to “rescue Nigeria from the poor governance of the All Progressives Congress (APC)”.

The politicians stressed that the ADC provides a platform that aligns with their vision for national unity, good governance, and inclusive development, adding that their alliance is open to other opposition figures who share similar goals.

The meeting ended with a call for Nigerians to support the emerging coalition, which they described as a serious alternative ahead of future political contests.

“Our Job Is To Vote APC Out”, Obi Says As He Officially Joins ADC

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Peter Obi
Mr Peter Obi
Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, alongside other political leaders from Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone, has declared for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing the need to “rescue Nigeria from the poor governance of the All Progressives Congress (APC)”.
The leaders made the declaration on Wednesday during a meeting held in Enugu, the Enugu State capital, after what they described as months of wide-ranging consultations.
According to them, the decision to join the ADC was part of a broader plan to align with other opposition leaders across the country in a collective effort to unseat the ruling APC, which they accused of mismanaging the nation.
Obi said, “As the year 2025 ends today, we stand on the threshold of a new year, which we hope will mark the beginning of Nigeria’s long-awaited socio-economic transformation,” Obi said.
“For Nigeria, that moment of decisive action is now. Nigeria is not poor, we are looted into poverty.”
Obi painted a grim picture of the country’s condition, describing Nigeria as “a nation in grave distress,” plagued by insecurity, unemployment, poverty and institutional decay.
“With over 130 million Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty and more than 80 million youths unemployed, our people are in persistent agony,” he said.
“Nigeria is not collapsing under the weight of its people; Nigeria is suffocating under the weight of impunity and greed of her leadership.”
He argued that the country’s challenges are not rooted in a lack of resources but in leadership failure. “As a nation, we are not poor; we are looted into poverty. As a nation, we are not broken; we are severely betrayed,” Obi declared, drawing loud applause from supporters.
“We most strongly demand urgent reforms of the entire electoral process,” he said. “At the heart of our coming national transformation is electoral integrity. We can no longer toy with elections, especially when we see the tragedies of truncated democracies across West Africa.”
Obi warned that attempts to rig or manipulate the 2027 elections would be resisted. “The will of the Nigerian people is sacrosanct and non-negotiable,” he said. “Those plotting to subvert it in 2027 should rethink their actions. Nigerians have endured enough.”
Drawing from his international engagements, Obi cited Rwanda, Indonesia and several Asian economies as examples of what unity and competent leadership can achieve.
“In 1995, Rwanda’s GDP per capita was about $200. Today, it is over $1,000,” he said. “Nigeria’s GDP per capita in 1995 was $1,225, but has declined to below $1,000 after 30 years. This is a tragedy for a country called the ‘Giant of Africa.’”
He attributed the divergence to leadership choices and national consensus, referencing his interactions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Indonesian leaders and renowned scholars including Nobel laureate Prof. James Robinson.
“Our problem is not ignorance,” Obi said. “Nations like Nigeria know what to do to prosper but refuse to do so. The problem is leadership and lack of unity.”
Obi also criticized the Federal Government’s fiscal policies, particularly ongoing controversies surrounding tax reforms.
“It is bad fiscal policy for government to make the people poorer and still tax them more,” he said. “Taxing poverty will not create wealth; it will create more poverty.”
He described reports of a forged tax law as alarming. “For the first time in our history, a tax law is reported to be forged,” Obi said. “A forged tax regime cannot create wealth and cannot sustain national unity.”
In a major political declaration, Obi formally announced his alignment with a broad opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress, led by former Senate President David Mark.
“Having been part of the coalition from inception, I now respectfully call on my supporters, the Obidient Movement and opposition parties across the country to join this broad national coalition under the ADC,” he said. “This decision is guided solely by patriotism and national interest.”
He dismissed fears of political invincibility by the ruling elite. “They have built a house of cards with lies and errors,” Obi said. “Democracy offers us the opportunity to reject them at the polls. Our job in 2027 is to vote them out and keep vigil until they are out.”
Ending on a hopeful note, Obi urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair. “This is not the time for silence or ethnic chauvinism,” he said. “It is time to unite to dismantle the criminal enterprise destroying Nigeria.”
“Together, let us move forward with courage, unity and resolve,” Obi concluded. “A new, united, productive and inclusive Nigeria is possible.”
The event marked Obi’s most forceful political statement since the 2023 election and is expected to reshape opposition alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sahara Reporters

Ogene Leads Labour Party Caucus In House Of Reps To Join ADC

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Victor Ogene

In a significant political event happening in Enugu, Enugu State, Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, Leader of the Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives, is leading LP members to join Mr. Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate t ADC, at an event being broadcast live on Arise TV.

The event, taking place in Enugu, is likely to draw attention from political analysts across the country.

New Year: Ondo Workers To Observe Friday As Work-Free Day

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Lucky Aiyedatiwa
Ondo State Governor, Lucky  Aiyedatiwa.

By Ayodele Oni

Civil servants in Ondo State will resume work on Monday, January 5, 2026, the state government has announced.

This follows the declaration of a work-free day on Friday, January 2, designed to give workers adequate time to return from the New Year holiday.

The federal government had earlier declared January 1 as public holiday.

A statement on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Ebenezer Adeniyan, stated that this was disclosed by the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, after the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday, presided over by Governor Lucky  Aiyedatiwa.

He described the decision as a relief for workers and urged public servants and members of the public to take note of the revised resumption date.

Philip further stated that the day (Monday, January 5) would feature the state’s customary first workday prayer meeting at the Governor’s Office complex.

On infrastructure developments, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to the state’s progress through various projects.

He disclosed that projects such as the 24km Aboto/Atijere road and a 1km Sabomi road in Ese Odo had already been approved by the cabinet.

In chieftaincy matters, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, announced the appointment of Owei Kekemeke as the pioneer Amananawei of Agadagda-Obon in Ese Odo Local Government Area.

He added that the government is prepared to fill all vacant stools once communities were ready to begin the selection process.

Takuro also confirmed that warrant chiefs had been approved for the appointment of a new Alade Okun of Alade in Idanre, enabling the community to install a new king without delay.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, also disclosed that the State Government has approved a new Tax Bill for submission to State House of Assembly for passage.

He said this aligns with the state’s commitment to harmonise its fiscal policies with the upcoming Federation tax law, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

The new bill is designed to ensure that Ondo State’s tax framework operates in tandem with national standards under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 and related reforms, promoting efficiency, transparency, and sustainable revenue generation for the benefit of all residents.

By adopting these measures, the state aims to foster economic growth, improve public services, and create a more equitable tax environment that supports businesses and individuals alike, including relief for low-income earners and small businesses.

The Attorney General stated: “This approval marks a proactive step towards integrating Ondo State into the evolving national tax landscape. It will enable us to better serve our people while contributing to Nigeria’s broader economic objectives.”

The bill will now proceed to the Ondo State House of Assembly, where it will undergo legislative review and debate. The Ondo State Government encourages public participation in the process and remains open to constructive feedback from stakeholders.