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Anyanwu: Bayelsa PDP Backs Wike, Demands Presidency Zoned To South

By
James Orji
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Nyesom Wike
Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister

The Bayelsa state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has thrown its weight behind the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over the ongoing tussle for the party’s National Secretary.

The chapter under the leadership of George Turnah said it agreed with the minister that the party should zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the south.

The minister had on Monday, during a stakeholders meeting in Abuja, the nation’s capital insisted that Samuel Anyanwu remained the PDP scribe, citing the recent Supreme Court judgment on the matter.

The magazine reported that Sunday Ude-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader of the party has the support of the majority of the party’s leadership for the position.

According to a statement issued by Derri Wright, the state PDP Publicity Secretary on Tuesday,  it decided to recongnise Anyanwu as the National secretary because of its desire to ensure that the party survived its current crisis, saying Wike’s position on the issue is driven by his love for the party.

Turnah said the PDP in the state stands behind the minister in all the decisions taken at the meeting, noting that zoning the president to the south is line with the PDP Constitution, adding that Anyanwu cannot be replaced because there’s no ‘vacancy’ in the position.

Part of the statement: “We fully endorse the resolutions reached at the meeting, and as a State Chapter, we stand by our decision, and to state that there is no vacancy requiring any replacement whatsoever. Our party’s Constitution and the recent Supreme Court decision regarding the National Secretary issue are very clear and unambiguous in this regard.

“As a State Chapter, we stand united with the rest of our Eminent leaders and concerned stakeholders across the Federation in the decision to zone the Presidential ticket of our party for the upcoming 2027 elections to the Southern region. This strategic move does not just demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and fairness. It also does ensure that our party remains attuned to the voices of all Nigerians.

“Bayelsa State PDP reaffirms its loyalty to the resolutions of this meeting and remains steadfast in its support for Nyesom Wike as our national leader, as well as our endorsement of Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary. Together, we will forge ahead with renewed vigour to restore the PDP to its rightful place as a beacon of hope and justice for our people and nation.”

The magazine reported that three former governors on the platform of the PDP attended the Abuja stakeholders meeting apart from the minister. They are Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwanyi.

Dele Momodu: Nigeria Now Has Two Presidents

By
James Orji
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Ovasion Magazine publisher Dele Momodu has accused the Minister of the Federal capital territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike of behaving as if he’s Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-chief.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers state and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was appointed into the position by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Momodu, a former Presidential candidate of the PDP and an ardent critic of the minister said Wike now behave like na alternate president to Tinubu who appointed him as FCT Minister.

Momodu spoke on Channels Television Programme, The Morning Brief on Wednesday, in his reaction to President Tinubu’s affirmation of Wike’s efforts in transforming the FCT.

President Tinubu had while commissioning the International Conference Centre, ICC, rehabilitated by the FCDA praised the minister, urging him to ignore those the president described as ‘busybodies’ and ‘bystanders who are trying to distract him from achieving his aims for the FCT.

The popular journalist said the president has allowed the minister to do what he likes in the country, suggesting that President Tinubu is treating Wike as if he’s an alternate president to him.

Momodu: “I listened to the President refer to concerned Nigerians as ‘busybodies’ and ‘bystanders.’ Who is a bystander in his own country? All because of one man—Wike.”

” Wike was dancing after commissioning a centre said to have cost over ₦30 billion. Right now, it feels like we have two presidents in Nigeria.”

While commissioning the ICC, the minister accused some people of trying to stop him,  to which President Tinubu told him to go ahead without looking back.

“Don’t pay attention to the busybody and the bystanders. Whatever they say, continue with your good work. You’re a transformational leader, you have the foresight and determination to succeed,” Tinubu said. 

The ICC built by the regime of military dictator, Gen Ibrahim Babangida cost N350 million, at the time according to checks by the magazine, but was recently renovated with N30 billion  by the Minister.

“There Is No Faction In Ohaneze Ndigbo” – IPOB,  Warns Isiguzoro

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Okechukwu Isiguzoro

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, has strongly kicked against the attempt by those it described as  “hungry  political errand boys of Abuja slave masters”  to create phantom and nebulous factions within the leadership structure of the Ohaneze Ndigbo.

This is just as it called on Igbo and South Easterners to shun all activities in connection with the celebration of June 12,Democracy Day.

In a statement issued Tuesday evening, June 10, 2025, by its spokesperson Emma Powerful, IPOB warned that it will no longer  tolerate the denigration,and bastardization of the name of Ohaneze Ndigbo by some self serving individuals.

According to the group, there is no faction within the rank of the revered Igbo apex body. IPOB noted that the only recognized leadership of the Igbo socio-cultural organization is the one led by the much respected Senator Azuta Mbata

The IPOB similarly disassociated the Igbo nation , itself ,and its leadership headed by  Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the purported  statement by one Okechukwu  Isiguzoro on behalf of Ohaneze Ndigbo regarding the history of Igbo,and the States in which they are.

The group expressed deep concern over the tendency by a secion of the country’s media to accord unmerited attention to those it termed ” sponsored clowns” masquerading as factional leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo.

According to IPOB ,any individuals parading themselves as factional leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo are not only insulting the Igbo nation ,but also daring it.

It, therefore, urged the general public to disregard attempts by political merchants to create non-existent factions within the Ohaneze Ndigbo.

Following is the full text of the IPOB terse statement

“We Shall No Longer Tolerate These Insulting Charades in the Name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo – IPOB”

“The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the supreme leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, wishes to categorically dissociate the entire Igbo nation and the Biafra freedom movement from the recent shameful utterances made by one Okechukwu Isiguzoro in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

“We state for the record that Okechukwu Isiguzoro is unknown to the Igbo race as representing any recognised wing or faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Ohanaeze is not factionalised. The notion of a “factional” Ohanaeze exists only in the minds of hungry political errand boys doing the bidding of their Abuja slavemasters. These inconsequential elements neither represent the Igbo people nor speak for Ndigbo.

“It is appalling that these buffoons masquerading as leaders of a non-existent faction continue their coordinated efforts to give the impression that the Igbo race is disoriented or lacks cohesion. This is a calculated insult to our heritage and identity.

“They are also woefully ignorant of Igbo history. The recent claim that Igboland exists in only seven states of Nigeria is an outrageous falsehood. Igbo-speaking people are indigenous to 13 states of this British-created contraption called Nigeria. Any attempt to shrink our ancestral footprint is an unforgivable betrayal.

“Let it be known that Ohanaeze Ndigbo is currently led by Senator Emmanuel Mbatta, and that remains the only recognised and respected leadership of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body. Any individual parading himself as a “factional” leader is not only insulting the Igbo nation, but also daring IPOB with such impunity.

“We are equally disappointed with sections of the Nigerian media that give oxygen to these Abuja-sponsored clowns. The same media that would not dare suggest a “faction” in Afenifere or the Arewa Consultative Forum are quick to publish garbage intended to diminish Ohanaeze. We say to these media houses: any brown envelope you collect to publish such drivel will haunt you.

“IPOB is a proud promoter of free speech, but let everyone make their comments in their personal capacity or through their own platforms. Dragging the name of Ohanaeze into every sponsored narrative is cowardly, fraudulent, and unacceptable.

“We also wish to clarify, once again, that Ohanaeze Ndigbo—whether we agree with them or not—remains the apex body of Ndigbo. IPOB reserves the right to criticise Ohanaeze when they err, but we do not presume to represent them, nor should any other impostor.

“Finally, we call on all Biafrans to ignore any call for participation in June 12-related events. Until Nigeria learns to respect and honour May 30th—our sacred Biafran Remembrance Day—we shall not partake in their selective history or skewed national rituals.

“This is not just about IPOB. This is about our dignity, our truth, and our right to define who we are.

“COMRADE EMMA POWERFUL, MEDIA AND PUBLICITY SECRETARY FOR IPOB”

NIMASA Gets BPSR Commendation 

By
James Orji
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Dayo Mobereola - NIMASA DG

In alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has received commendation from the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, for its forward-thinking approach to institutional reforms.

Speaking during a two-day sensitization workshop in Lagos, the Director General of BPSR, Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, commended NIMASA for its exemplary commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, transparency, and service delivery through the automation of its systems.

In his keynote address titled “Overview of National Strategy for Public Service Reforms,” Dr. Arabi identified NIMASA as one of the standout MDAs embracing transformative change. He noted that the Agency’s reform agenda, particularly its adoption of digital technologies, sets a commendable benchmark for other government institutions.

“NIMASA is showing, in practical terms, what alignment with national reform goals should look like. Their embrace of automation is not just innovative—it is essential for modern governance,” Arabi stated.

He further highlighted that Reform Coordination Units within MDAs serve as strategic instruments for institutionalizing change, improving performance, and aligning operations with the national reform blueprint led by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, . Among the key national reform initiatives he cited were the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, and the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS, —all aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

“Our focus is to equip institutions with tools such as the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) and to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders in order to drive consistent improvements in public service delivery,” Arabi added.

In his opening remarks, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to reform, underscoring its role as a catalyst for national development

“Reform is the pathway to innovation and national advancement. Without change, we risk stagnation. As a forward-looking organization, NIMASA is embracing transformation to fulfill its mandate and better serve the nation,” Mobereola said.

He urged NIMASA staff to embrace a proactive and open mindset toward change, emphasizing that adaptability is essential to building institutional resilience and achieving long-term success.

The workshop provided a valuable platform to deepen awareness of public service reform objectives among NIMASA personnel and to reaffirm the Agency’s alignment with national priorities focused on improving governance and driving economic development.

Ghana To Name, Shame Those Who Publicly Use Honorary Doctorate Titles

By
Adesina Soyooye
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John Dramani Mahama

By Adesina Soyooye

In Ghana, the public use of Honorary Doctorate Degrees and  Professorship titles has been officially barred.

For one to use such titles, according to a statement  from Ghana’s Tertiary  Education Commission, GTEC, one has to earn it by going through academic rigours.

In a  statement, GTEC said it would not only name and shame those who flout the order, it would take legal action.

The statement signed by Professor Augustine Ocloo, Acting Deputy Director General, GTEC, noted that that the fraudulent use of the titles is common among  politicians, clerics and businesses persons. Such use, it pointed out, makes a mockery of the higher education system, and dilutes the integrity and value of true doctoral education and promotion  of the professorial system in the universities. Such habit, it pointed out, is at once deceitful and unethical.

“This notice goes especially to politicians, business men and business women, men and women of God, and any other category of persons to desist from officially using the Honorary and Professorship titles in their everyday life”, the statement  warned.

A Doctorate degree (PhD) is the highest degree awarded by Universities when an individual has completed his/her studies, as well as dissertation. Professorship is the topmost academic rank in the University which individuals obtain based on scholarly works and achievements.

In Nigeria, the use of Honorary Doctorate degrees and professorship titles has been so abused by every Tom, Dick and Harry, including wealthy stark illiterates that those who earned the titles through  scholarly works are ashamed to use them.

Even If Fubara Joins APC, He Will Still Be Impeached – Okocha, Rivers  APC Factional Chair

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Tony Okocha

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Not even  joining the All Progressive Congress, APC, will save suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara  from the sword of  impeachment, a faction of the party has insisted.

The Source reports that Governor Fubara, his deputy and  Members of the State House of Assembly, were on March 18, 2025, slammed with a six month suspension, following the declaration of a State of Emergency in the State by President Bola Tinubu.

The emergency proclamation was, in itself, a direct consequence of the seemingly unresolvable differences between Governor Fubara and the State Lawmakers believed to be  fiercely loyal to the Governor’s estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike ,the Federal Capital Territory FCT Minister.

President Tinubu had cited the need to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order as one of the major reasons for his intervention.

But at an interactive session with the Media on Tuesday June, 10, 2025 in Abuja, Rivers State APC factional Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, noted that the impeachment threat remains in force  in the absence of any genuine reconciliation between the law makers and Governor Fubara.

Siminalayi Fubara
Siminalayi Fubara

His statement comes amidst speculations that the embattled Governor elected on the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, platform may have resolved to defect to the APC as one of the preconditions for his early reinstatement in office.

In fact ,rumours have been rife that democratic order may be restored in Rivers state as the country marks June 12 Democracy Day on Thursday.

However, the Rivers State APC Chairman expressed fears that the state Lawmakers may still opt for the removal of the Governor, even if he decides to join Mr President’s party if concerted efforts are not made to sort out  areas of disagreement with the legislative body.

“Only genuine reconciliation can save him ( Governor Fubara ) from impeachment as the Supreme. Court judgment stands. Any reconciliation must also be arrived at through lawful and due processes

“But, as of today ,I can confirm that there is no genuine and serious reconciliation effort ongoing as it concerns the political situation in Rivers state.

“The suspended Governor has not made any move to reconcile with the Lawmakers. If the situation remains unresolved before the restoration of democratic governance, the possibilities of impeaching the Governor will still be there even if he decides to join APC”, Okocha emphasized.

This is just as he asserted that the APC is no dumping ground for political outcasts.

According to him, as a law abiding party, there are some due processes that have to followed before admitting the suspended Governor.

“In any case, Fubara cannot be forgiven simply because he joined the APC. APC is not a dumping ground .He must follow the procedures before he can be admitted. He has to join from his ward”, he noted.

Reps Beams Searchlight On Condition Of Foreign Missions

By
Ayodele Oni
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House of Reps Members

By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives is set to  address the poor conditions of Nigerian missions abroad.

To this end, a motion being sponsored by three members of the Green Chamber is already before the lawmakers.

The motion was sponsored by Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers), co-sponsored by Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi (LP, Lagos) and Fred Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa), calling for an investigation into the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s  Diplomatic Missions, particularly in the United States of America.

The motion urged the House to assess the structural, operational, and diplomatic challenges faced by these missions, which have raised concerns over national image, staff welfare, and service delivery to Nigerians abroad.

A statement by the Reps spokesman, Akin Rotimi Jnr, explained that members of the House stressed the importance of restoring dignity to Nigeria’s foreign missions through transparent oversight, adequate funding, and strategic foreign policy alignment that reflects the country’s global stature.

“In response, the House resolved to launch a comprehensive probe, engaging relevant MDAs and stakeholders to chart a course for reforms that will enhance the effectiveness and integrity of Nigeria’s diplomatic presence worldwide.

“This action affirms the 10th Assembly’s unwavering commitment to accountability, global representation, and the welfare of Nigerians everywhere.”

Osun: NYSC Sanctions Corps Members For Breaching Service Rules

By
Ayodele Oni
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NYSC - Corps Members

By Ayodele Oni

For running foul of rules and regulations of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme, (NYSC) a total of 119 members serving in Osun State have been directed to repeat their mandatory service year.

This was revealed in a statement issued after the low-key passing-out ceremony of the 2024 Batch B Stream 1 corps members in the state.

According to the State Coordinator, Mr. Agbor Obim, 2,057 corps members successfully completed their service, while 86 received service year extensions and 33 were declared as absconders due to misconduct and non-compliance with NYSC bye-laws.

Speaking at the Olorunda Local Government area distribution centre, Agbor emphasised the importance of discipline, urging corps members to avoid night journeys, travel only from designated motor parks, and refrain from wearing the NYSC uniform while traveling for their own safety.

He highlighted the role of the NYSC in promoting national unity, commending the outgoing corps members for their resilience and service despite the challenges faced during the year.

“We thank the Almighty for guiding our corps members through their service year, and commend them for their meaningful contributions across the state.”

At the Osogbo Local Government area centre, Mr. Oyebade Babatunde, Deputy Director of Mobilisation and Certification, Southwest Area Office 1, praised the corps members for their dedication to national development.

He encouraged them to leverage the skills gained from the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme and to build on the foundation laid during the service year.

“As you step into the next phase of your lives, carry the values of discipline, honesty, hard work, and respect. These are the virtues that will guide you to success.”

He also urged them to pursue further education or practical skills training where possible and cautioned against engaging in illegal activities in the pursuit of quick wealth.

“Let your choices reflect the ideals of the NYSC scheme — nation building, integrity, and service to humanity.”

Tinubu Justifies Renovation Of ICC, As Wike Renames Centre After President

By
Ayodele Oni
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ICC Abuja

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has observed that the State of the International Conference Centre, before its renovation did not befit the status of Nigeria.

Recalling his previous visit to the Centre during the 2024 ECOWAS Parliament conference, President Tinubu recounted his shock at its poor state.

“When I attended the ECOWAS Parliament conference, the environment was dirty, disorganised, and uninhabitable.

“I turned to Mr. Wike and said, ‘This Conference Centre does not reflect who we are. Have we sunk this low?’ He replied, ‘No, bear with us. We will do whatever we can to transform the place.’ Today, I am very happy.

“The International Conference Centre is part of our country’s larger vision to become a hub for regional diplomacy, continental trade discussions, global partnerships, and other thoughtful, well-outlined goals that reflect our ‘Nigeria First’ principle.”

He praised Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, the original contractor, for delivering a high-quality renovation, adding that the quality reflects what Julius Berger has been known for in this country for years.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that Tinubu spoke at the commissioning of the renovated Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC) on Tuesday in Abuja.

The President directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to pay for the use of the facility to ensure its upkeep and long-term sustainability.

At the event, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike announced the renaming of the Centre, which opened in 1991, as the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre.

Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Tinubu further assured Nigerians of his administration’s determination to revitalise infrastructure across key sectors, including transportation, healthcare, education, energy, and urban development.

He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for completing the renovation within one year of the Centre’s closure.

Applauding Wike for his vision and execution, President Tinubu said: “Do not pay attention to the busybodies and bystanders. Whatever they say, continue your good work. You are a transformational leader with foresight, vision, and determination.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the FCT Administration for naming halls at the Centre after the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

He lauded the collaborative spirit between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary under President Tinubu’s leadership.

Wike said the FCT transformed the facility within eight months after the President’s directive.

“Mr. President, this transformation would not have been possible without your leadership. Many presidents have come here, but none said this was not what Nigeria needed because they lacked your courage and vision.”

Wike stressed the need for financial discipline in maintaining the newly upgraded facility,

“Whether you are a Ministry or an Agency, you must pay something to use this facility. That is the only way we can sustain it.

“No such thing as ‘my brother’ or ‘my sister’ wants to use it for a wedding. If you want to use a beautiful place like this, you must pay something.”

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre is among several capital projects scheduled for commissioning by President Tinubu in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of activities marking his second anniversary in office.

Endorsement Of Gov Otti: You Are On Your Own, APC Warns Orji Kalu

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Orji Uzor Kalu and Alex Otti

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The All Progressive Congress, APC, has vehemently rejected the  endorsement handed down to the Abia state Governor, Dr Alex Otti, by a chieftain of the party and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial district ,Orji Uzor Kalu.

The Source reports that Senator Kalu ,a former Governor of the State ,in company with a one time Senator that represented Abia Central, Chris Adighijie had on Sunday, June 8, 2025 during a visit to the  Labour Party’s Governor Otti, patted him on the back for work well done so far in the governance of Abia State.

Kalu, thereafter, proceeded to endorse Otti’s second term bid ,even when the Governor is still waiting on God to decide  his 2027 political foray.

Instructively, Governor Otti, while appreciating the visit of his predecessor in  office, and the concomitant accolades, flayed all discussions about 2027 as amounting to playing God.

While, also, conceding to have borrowed hugely from the infrastructural development blueprint of Kalu during his time as the State Governor, Otti, pointedly disassociated himself from all such distractive permutations on the 2027 polls.

Two years, he  insisted, are too far for political actors to engage in calculations for another election .

The Abia APC in a strongly-worded  statement issued  on Tuesday, June 10, by its spokesperson, Sterling Uruakpa scolded Senator Kalu for indulging in an unsolicited political  handshake with a Governor of a rival party.

The APC , while completely distancing itself from all remarks  credited to Kalu during the said visit, also, stated that the Abia State former Governor is on his own.

The party similarly described Senator Kalu’s visit to Governor Otti as purely a personal affair which does not enjoy the approval and or support of APC.

“Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s visit to Governor Alex Otti was a personal engagement. It does not reflect the position or endorsement of  Abia state APC.

The Party remains firm in its position that the Labour Party Government in Abia is fraught with unresolved conflicts of interest, a troubling lack of transparency, and the concealment of project costs, and contracts details” the party stated.

The APC reaffirmed its position on the alleged opaqueness of the LP administration, as earlier  captured by its Chairman, Dr Kingsley Ononogbu.

The Chairman had at the  occasion of the launch of Renewed Hope Partners in Bende Local Council of the State on May 28, 2025, berated the Otti administration for reveling in unbridled financial secrecy as well as conducting the affairs of Abia State from his private residence in his Isiala Ngwa South Local Government.

The APC in the statement warned against any further act of party indiscipline, sabotage, as well as what it described as  “political fraternization on the part of members.

According to the APC, no party member should hide under the guise of seeking support for the ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to undermine its fortune.

“We will not tolerate a repeat of the 2023 betrayal where party discipline was sacrificed for personal gain”, the APC warned.

Instructively too, at an interactive session with the media after the now controversial visit, Senator Kalu had stated that his overall interest, was to foster a political understanding between President Tinubu and Governor Otti.

While rejecting any plans for a coalition against the President ahead of the 2027 polls, Kalu noted that he is working to ensure that both Governor Otti and the President assist each other during the election.

“I am not into coalition talks. My interest is for Tinubu and Otti to support each other.

“Governor Otti doesn’t have a problem with me. I don’t want to talk about a coalition. I want to talk about Otti supporting Tinubu and Tinubu supporting Otti.That is my interest”, Kalu submitted.

However, not a few people, including a sizable number of his APC members, perceive Senator Kalu’s posture as being in tandem with his well known survival antics.

However, the APC in its statement expressed its unflinching readiness and commitment towards wresting power from the LP in the state.

” Let it be known that no amount of political posturing, or unmerited praise for the Labour Party Government will distract us.

“We are focused on delivering victory in 2027, and aligning Abia state with the APC-led Federal Government”, Uruakpa asserted.

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