Spokesperson of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has alleged that powerful figures from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are bent on destroying ADC ahead of the 2027 general election.

Abdullahi, the national publicity secretary of ADC, said in a statement on Monday, that he was aware of efforts to promote Nafiu Gombe as the party’s national chairman and noted that Gombe had been previously expelled from the party.

“Mr Gombe, who once claimed to be Deputy National Chairman under the former National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, was duly expelled from the ADC after engaging in actions that were inconsistent with the party’s constitution, its principles, and the collective decisions of its leadership,” the statement reads.

“The objective is clear: to manufacture confusion within the ADC, sponsor illegitimate leadership claims, and ultimately cripple the only credible opposition platform that Nigerians are increasingly looking to as a genuine alternative, thereby leaving Nigerians with no real choice in the next general election, despite the widespread suffering the ruling party has brought on the people.

“We, therefore, wonder at the level of desperation driving these anti-democratic forces to continue their sinister efforts to impose expelled individuals on the party or manipulate its internal structures through external political pressure on judges and electoral officials.”

He noted that a combined meeting of the party’s national working committee (NWC) and national executive committee (NEC) in July 2025, witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), transferred leadership to the coalition led by David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola.

Abdullahi noted that the transition was formally recognised by INEC in September 2025.

The ADC spokesperson also highlighted that a federal high court dismissed a case challenging Mark’s leadership on March 6, affirming the party’s internal processes and the supreme court’s previous judgment that leadership matters are primarily an internal party affair.

Abdullahi called on the public, party members, and democratic institutions to respect the ADC’s constitutionally recognised leadership and to disregard claims made by unauthorised individuals.

He noted that the party remains committed to strengthening internal democracy and providing Nigerians with a credible political alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.

By Bonaventure Melah

The New Nigeria Integrity Movement (NMIM), Middle Belt Zone, has called on former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to consider returning to national leadership in the 2027 general election, citing the urgent need for experienced and stabilising leadership amidst worsening national challenges.

The call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of a strategic meeting of the group, during which members reviewed the current state of the nation and expressed deep concern over rising insecurity, economic hardship, and the deteriorating living conditions of millions of Nigerians.

According to a media release jointly signed by Hon. Pastor Peter Hassan, National Leader, and Dr. Blessing Eliagu, Secretary, “Nigeria is currently facing a critical moment marked by widespread poverty, hunger, and persistent insecurity across several communities, particularly in the Middle Belt region.”

The statement continued, “Across the nation, millions of Nigerians are experiencing unprecedented economic hardship. Poverty has deepened, hunger has become widespread, and many families now struggle daily to secure basic meals.”

The group acknowledged that while infrastructure development remains important for long-term national growth, it does not immediately address the urgent crisis of hunger and livelihood confronting many Nigerians.

They therefore urged Dr. Jonathan to offer his leadership and experience once again in service to the nation.

“We believe that former President Jonathan represents calm, experienced, and credible leadership capable of restoring hope, rebuilding trust in governance, and initiating policies that directly address the economic suffering of citizens,” the communiqué stated.

The organisation also appealed to democratic leaders and partners around the world to support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic governance and stability in Nigeria.

The group described Jonathan as one of Nigeria’s most experienced statesmen, noting that his tenure demonstrated respect for democratic principles, tolerance, and commitment to national unity.

“His leadership style reflected humility, respect for the rule of law, and dedication to democratic values,” the statement added.

It further argued that his return could help reinforce the principle of power rotation, which it described as an important mechanism for maintaining national balance and political stability in Nigeria.

The movement stressed that its appeal is driven not by partisan considerations but by concern for the wellbeing and survival of Nigerians.

“Nigeria requires a national reset – one that focuses on human welfare, economic recovery, and national cohesion. Silence in the face of the current suffering is not an option,” the group said.

The organisation also called on Nigerians to continue advocating peacefully for responsible leadership and policies that prioritise the welfare of citizens.

“Nigeria deserves better. The time to act is now,” the communiqué further stated.

The world football governing body, FIFA, has sanctioned Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Congolese Football Association following disciplinary incidents recorded during a 2026 World Cup qualifying fixture between the two countries.

According to FIFA’s latest disciplinary overview for World Cup qualifying matches, the two football bodies were found guilty of separate infractions during the encounter played on 16 November 2025.

FIFA stated that Nigeria was penalised for a breach relating to order and security at matches, specifically involving the throwing of objects by spectators during the game.

The offence falls under Article 17 and Article 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, for which the NFF was fined 1,000 Swiss Francs.

The Congolese federation received a heavier sanction after supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the match.

The act contravenes Article 17.2.d of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, leading FIFA to impose a fine of 5,000 Swiss Francs on the DR Congo Football Association.

FIFA emphasised that disciplinary decisions are taken based on the circumstances of each case and may still be subject to appeal.

The governing body also noted that the summary of sanctions released publicly is mainly intended to inform the media, while the official legal decisions are communicated directly to the concerned federations.