APC Aspirant Petitions Tinubu Over Alleged Manipulation of Ondo Reps Primary

By: Michael Mike

An aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency seat in Ondo State, Prince Monday Akinyomi, has petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as the manipulation and hijack of the party’s primary election.

In a protest letter addressed to the President and dated May 18, 2026, Akinyomi alleged that the primary election scheduled for May 16 failed to hold as party officials assigned to conduct the exercise did not appear at the venue.

The aggrieved aspirant claimed that the process was deliberately compromised, warning that such actions could undermine confidence in the internal democratic process of the ruling party.

According to him, the development was inconsistent with the democratic ideals and progressive principles the APC publicly professes to uphold.

Akinyomi, a Nigerian based in the United States before returning home, said he was motivated to participate in the political process after listening to President Tinubu’s appeal to Nigerians in the diaspora to return and contribute to national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He stated that he answered the call by returning to Nigeria, remaining loyal to the APC, and actively supporting the party during the 2023 general elections.

The aspirant disclosed that he purchased both the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency contest in good faith, believing that the exercise would be transparent and credible.

He, however, lamented that the alleged manipulation of the process had raised concerns about fairness and equal opportunity within the party.

Akinyomi warned that if the situation was not addressed, it could discourage Nigerians in the diaspora from responding to future calls to return home and contribute to governance and national development.

He further argued that allowing such practices to stand would send a negative signal that competence, loyalty, and sacrifice were secondary to predetermined political arrangements.

The APC aspirant appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and ensure justice, fairness, and due process in the conduct of the primary election.

He expressed confidence in the President’s leadership and urged him to protect the integrity of the party and Nigeria’s democratic system.

Copies of the petition were also addressed to the national leadership of the APC in Abuja.

APC Aspirant Petitions Tinubu Over Alleged Manipulation of Ondo Reps Primary

I’ll run inclusive governance, sustain Fintiri’s achievements, if elected governor- Galadima

Alhaji Tijjani Galadima, a governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State has pledged to be fair, just while ensuring people-centred leadership, if elected governor in the 2027 general elections.

Galadima who is the immediate past Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) gave the assurance during a stakeholders’ engagement in Yola.

He commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing the administration’s policies as impactful on national development.

According to him, his administration and that of Tinubu would work together and continue to impact positively across the grassroots.

Galadima further lauded Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri for his visionary leadership adding that his achievements have created a strong foundation for growth.

He added that his administration would also focus on continuity, unity, inclusive governance, stressing that no segment of the state would be left behind under his leadership.

Galadima thanked party members and supporters for their encouragement and loyalty, assuring them that their confidence in him would not be misplaced.

Earlier, in his address, Kevin Peter, Galadima’s campaign Director-General said, Galadima is qualified to be the next Governor of Adamawa because of his experience and leadership capacity needed to move the state forward.

He called on the party delegates and the electorates to support Galadima’s ambition to succeed.

In their separate remarks, Prof. Maxwell Gidado and Lilian Steven, party Stalwarts expressed optimism that Galadima would consolidate on the achievements of the present administration if elected governor.

They said Galadima is a leader with the vision and competence to deliver quality governance and improve the living conditions of citizens across the state.

I’ll run inclusive governance, sustain Fintiri’s achievements, if elected governor- Galadima

2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the realm of political discourse, especially during the critical periods leading up to general elections, rumors and speculative reports often emerge, attempting to sway public perception and influence outcomes. One such instance is the recent report by the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers on May 17, 2026, suggesting intensified efforts within the ruling establishment to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima amid internal political consultations. This narrative, which paints a picture of discord and impending change in the vice-presidential slot, is not only baseless but also misleading. In reality, Vice President Kashim Shettima remains a steadfast pillar in the administration’s strategy for the 2027 general elections, working in unison with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deliver victory for the All Progressive Congress (APC). 

The unfounded claims surrounding the so-called “Shettima issue” are the new kite the enemies of this partnership between President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are trying to sell in their continuous attempts to dismantle the progress already achieved and reaffirm their continuous lack of ideas over what made Tinubu and Shettima’s partnership thick. While they are entitled to their own beliefs and strategies, the renewed vision and partnership between the president and vice president for a stronger, unified Nigeria stand tall and shine constantly in position like a northern star. 

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

While they failed in their imaginations, we build. The context and motivations behind the propagation of such misleading reports are not far-fetched. Nigerian politics, characterized by fierce competition and complex alliances, is often marred by misinformation aimed at destabilizing governing coalitions. Reports insinuating a potential replacement of Vice President Shettima seemingly emerge from rival political interests who seek to fracture the APC’s front in the crucial northern regions where Shettima wields significant influence. By casting doubt on the vice president’s position, these reports aim to sow confusion among supporters and create fissures within the party’s grassroots structure. However, looking closely at the facts and recent developments reveals no basis for these rumors.

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s role in the current administration has been instrumental—not only as a vice president but, more importantly, as a strategic leader who mobilizes support across the North. His roots and connections in this region have proven invaluable in consolidating the party’s influence and outreach, especially now. Since assuming office, Shettima has consistently demonstrated loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration and an unwavering commitment to the broader national agenda. The assertion that internal consultations are targeting his removal contradicts observable realities and official statements from both the presidency and the APC leadership, all of which underscore unity and forward momentum.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

The idea that high-level consultations and behind-the-scenes political maneuvers are underway to replace Shettima ignores the transparent and collaborative nature of the Tinubu-Shettima partnership. Both leaders have publicly reiterated their dedication to working together towards the success of the upcoming 2027 elections. Their collaboration is rooted not only in political expediency but also in a shared vision of governance, economic development, and national cohesion. This synergy has been evident in various policy implementations and campaigns aimed at fostering growth and stability, dispelling any notion that their alliance is fragile or conditional.

The vice president’s focus remains resolute on positioning the APC for electoral success. His active engagement with party stakeholders, community leaders, and electorates across the northern geopolitical zones confirms his central role in the campaign apparatus. Efforts to undermine this position are not only premature but counterproductive. It would be illogical for the ruling party to disrupt a winning formula, particularly when Shettima’s involvement is critical to maintaining the party’s stronghold in strategically vital states. This consistency in leadership and messaging helps sustain public confidence and project an image of stability, both domestically and internationally.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has consciously prioritized the cultivation of a leadership team grounded in trust, competence, and mutual respect. The strength of the partnership between Tinubu and Shettima lies in their complementary attributes—Tinubu’s political acumen and national stature combined with Shettima’s grassroots connections and regional influence form a formidable alliance. This relationship is not merely transactional but built on a shared commitment to delivering on the promises of a new Nigeria—a nation defined by inclusivity, prosperity, and democratic consolidation.

Critics and opponents who propagate the “Shettima issue” narrative must consider the potential consequences of their actions. Spreading falsehoods undermines not only the individuals involved but also the democratic process itself. Political maturity dictates that differences and challenges be addressed through dialogue and institutional mechanisms rather than through sensationalist media narratives or unsubstantiated claims. The APC, under the leadership of Tinubu and Shettima, exemplifies this maturity by focusing on policy priorities and voter engagement rather than succumbing to divisive distractions.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/apc-2027-will-consensus-enforce-anti-party-as-a-result-of-collapses-in-internal-democracy/

Importantly, the renewed hope for a stronger Nigeria encapsulated in the Tinubu-Shettima vision is one that transcends individual positions or political convenience. It is a collective aspiration for national growth, peace, and stability that resonates deeply with the citizenry. Their joint campaign promises reflect commitments to infrastructural development, job creation, security enhancement, and education reform—areas that directly affect the lives of millions of Nigerians. To suggest instability within the leadership based on unfounded reports is to disregard the tangible progress and strategic planning underway.

The report by the Nigerian Tribune Newspapers alleging internal political turmoil regarding Vice President Kashim Shettima is not only inaccurate but dangerously misleading. Such narratives serve no constructive purpose and only detract from the significant work being done by the ruling administration to steer Nigeria towards a prosperous future. Vice President Kashim Shettima remains fully engaged and indispensable in the campaign to secure the APC’s victory in the upcoming elections. His partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is solid, visionary, and crucial to the realization of a new Nigeria. Those anticipating a change in this dynamic have already miscalculated the strength of this alliance and the determination of the leaders involved. The administration’s focus remains clear: to build a Nigeria that offers hope, opportunity, and progress for all its citizens.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Between President Tinubu And Vice President Kashim Shettima