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The People’s Choice: Olumide Akpata Surges Ahead, Leaving PDP in the Dust as Edo Election Heats Up
The People’s Choice: Olumide Akpata Surges Ahead, Leaving PDP in the Dust as Edo Election Heats Up
By Oshiobugie John
In an astonishing turn of events, Olumide Akpata has emerged as a formidable force in the Edo State political landscape. With his people-centric approach and grassroots acceptability, Akpata has managed to secure a significant number of electorates from Edo South and is making impressive inroads into Edo North and Central. His candidacy, which initially faced considerable skepticism, has gained unstoppable momentum, causing palpable anxiety within the ranks of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Olumide Akpata’s rise to prominence is no accident. His deep connection with the people and commitment to addressing their concerns have endeared him to voters across the state. From urban centers to rural communities, Akpata’s campaign has been characterized by direct engagement and genuine dialogue with the electorate. This approach has not only won him admiration but also a loyal following that is rapidly expanding.
Edo South, traditionally a crucial battleground in state elections, has seen a significant shift in favor of Akpata. His ability to resonate with the everyday struggles of the people and provide tangible solutions has translated into substantial support. But Akpata’s appeal is not confined to the South. His strategic outreach to Edo North and Central has been equally effective, securing bloc support and further solidifying his position.
When Akpata first announced his candidacy, many viewed it as a long shot. The established political machinery of the PDP seemed insurmountable. However, Akpata’s relentless campaign, marked by transparency and sincerity, has turned the tide. His rise has been nothing short of meteoric, spreading like wildfire across the state. The initial doubts surrounding his candidacy have dissipated, replaced by a groundswell of support that is reshaping the political dynamics of Edo State.
The dramatic rise of Olumide Akpata has not gone unnoticed by the PDP. The party, which once considered itself unchallenged, is now facing a formidable opponent. Akpata’s popularity and the widespread acceptance of his vision have rattled the PDP, leading to a series of desperate attacks aimed at undermining his credibility.
The party’s attempts to discredit him are a clear indication of their fear. The PDP’s anxiety is rooted in Akpata’s ability to connect with the electorate in ways they have failed to do. His surging popularity is seen as a direct threat to their political dominance, and their aggressive tactics reflect their desperation to retain power.
As the election approaches, Olumide Akpata’s campaign continues to gain traction. His vision for a better Edo State, coupled with his unwavering dedication to the people’s welfare, has set him apart from his rivals. With every passing day, his support base grows stronger, making it increasingly likely that he could uproot the PDP from the government house.
In conclusion, Olumide Akpata’s surge in popularity is a testament to the power of a people-centric approach and genuine grassroots engagement. Despite the odds and the relentless attacks from the PDP, Akpata’s candidacy is flourishing. As the momentum builds, it is clear that the people of Edo State are rallying behind a new leader who promises to bring about meaningful change. The People’s Choice, indeed, appears poised to redefine the political landscape of Edo State.
The People’s Choice: Olumide Akpata Surges Ahead, Leaving PDP in the Dust as Edo Election Heats Up
2026 teachers’ summit: Zulum stands in for NGF chair, commends FG for NELFUND
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, on Monday, attended the National Teachers’ Summit held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where he stood in for the Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
Governor Zulum commended the Federal Government for its strategic investments in education, citing the positive impact of Students Loan Scheme, the strengthening of key educational institutions, and the upward review of salaries for federal university teachers as evidence of a clear policy direction aimed at revitalising the sector.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to educational development and human capital advancement in Borno State.
The summit, convened by the Federal Ministry of Education, provided a strategic platform to review the state of Nigeria’s education sector, strengthen policy implementation, and formally launch “Edu Revamp”, a platform to enhance teacher capacity, utilise digital tools for 21st-century skills, and foster collaboration to improve learning outcomes.
About 12 exemplary teachers were honoured for their outstanding service to the nation. Six teachers—one from each of the six geopolitical zones—from the Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), alongside six secondary school teachers, received cash awards of ₦25 million each. The Overall Best Teacher award was presented to Mr Solanke Francis Taiwo, who received a cash prize of ₦50 million.
Governor Zulum commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for hosting the maiden National Teachers’ Summit at the Presidential Villa, describing the initiative as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s prioritisation of education.
He particularly applauded her sustained advocacy for girl-child education and her support through scholarships and grants that continue to reduce barriers to educational access for vulnerable Nigerians.
He also praised the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Olatunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, for their focused and reform-driven leadership.
2026 teachers’ summit: Zulum stands in for NGF chair, commends FG for NELFUND
News
Kyari Urges Fairer Global Trade Rules as Nigeria Participates in Cocoa Beyond Borders Conference in UK
Kyari Urges Fairer Global Trade Rules as Nigeria Participates in Cocoa Beyond Borders Conference in UK
By: Our Reporter
Nigeria is participating in the Cocoa Beyond Borders 2026 Conference in the United Kingdom, joining global policymakers, industry leaders, financiers, and farmer representatives to examine power imbalances and compliance challenges in the global cocoa sector.
Delivering a keynote address, Senator Abubakar Kyari, CON, Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Nigeria, challenged existing trade and compliance regimes, stating that cocoa-producing nations “must not remain rule-takers in a system where the rules are made without their meaningful input.”
Speaking within the conference theme, “Rules Without Recourse? Navigating Compliance, Power, and Trade Justice in the Cocoa Sector,” the Minister warned that sustainability frameworks would fail if they undermine farmer livelihoods and national sovereignty, stressing that “compliance cannot be just if it weakens producer economies while protecting markets elsewhere.”
Senator Kyari also cautioned against the weaponisation of ESG and environmental regulations as non-tariff barriers, noting that climate action must advance alongside fairness and equity in global trade.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to reclaiming value across the cocoa supply chain, emphasising the need for producing countries to move beyond raw exports to processing, branding, and greater market influence, while calling for stronger producer-led alliances to reshape global cocoa governance.
The two-day conference is examining ESG compliance, digital traceability, climate finance, price volatility, and the future of cocoa innovation, positioning cocoa as a strategic asset in global trade justice.
Kyari Urges Fairer Global Trade Rules as Nigeria Participates in Cocoa Beyond Borders Conference in UK
Armed robbery foiled by Bauchi Police, three suspects arrested in Bauchi
By: Zagazola Makama
Three persons were arrested following a foiled armed robbery along the Bauchi–Gombe Federal Highway in Kirfi Local Government Area of Bauchi State on Jan. 26.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 12:16 a.m. when armed robbers blocked the road near Kalajanga Hamlet via Bara Village.
Officers on routine patrol responded promptly, engaging the hoodlums and forcing them to abandon their operation and flee into the surrounding bush.
The trail of the robbers led authorities to the house of one Nasiru Ibrahim of Saddiya Hamlet, where two of his children, Isya Nasiru, 20, and Umar Nasiru, 18, were also arrested in connection with the case.
Recovered items included two sticks, a touch light, three bags, a local bullet-proof shirt, face masks, two pairs of shoes, an Oppo android phone, and several local charms.
Sources say Investigations are ongoing.
Armed robbery foiled by Bauchi Police, three suspects arrested in Bauchi
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