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PDP Crisis: Wike Lists Conditions for Reconciliation as Court Voids Turaki-Led NWC

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Nigeria’s opposition PDP faces fresh turmoil as Nyesom Wike lists conditions for reconciliation after the Court of Appeal voided the Turaki-led NWC. Party leaders push for unity ahead of the 2027 elections

PDP Power Struggle Deepens as Wike Sets Conditions for Reconciliation

Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), remains embroiled in a deepening leadership crisis as rival factions struggle to control the party structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The latest twist came after the Court of Appeal nullified the November 16, 2025 national convention, which had produced the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC).

The ruling has effectively strengthened the position of a caretaker committee backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, while the Turaki faction continues to enjoy support from some party leaders including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

Both camps have since intensified negotiations in Abuja in a bid to salvage the unity of the party.

Despite expressing support for reconciliation, Wike insisted that any peace process must be genuine and transparent.

Speaking after a meeting with Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro and House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, the FCT minister maintained that the PDP would survive the current crisis.

“PDP will never die,” Wike declared.

He described the internal conflict as part of a natural political process.

“There comes a time when you have crises, but those crises are for you to put yourself in order. Life is in stages. For me, what is happening is a natural process that we must pass through as humans. We are for reconciliation, but genuine reconciliation.”

However, the former Rivers State governor made it clear that reconciliation must be based on clear commitments.

“Minority leader, when you are talking about reconciliation, come with your terms of reconciliation so that we will know.”

He warned against secret negotiations and political manoeuvring.

“Concrete proposals, not like the last time you came to me and before I knew it, you were in Ibadan for the convention.

“I don’t like those who go to negotiate at night and come out to shout in the day. Let those coming for peace come in the daytime and not at night.”

The Court of Appeal’s decision to invalidate the controversial Ibadan convention has reshaped the balance of power within the party.

The ruling effectively restored the caretaker committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed with Senator Samuel Anyanwu as secretary, which has now moved swiftly to consolidate control.

The committee has already announced:

  • State congresses in several states
  • A national convention scheduled for March 28–29
  • Presidential primary slated for May 23

Party insiders say these timelines are designed to ensure the PDP meets Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deadlines ahead of the next election cycle.

Amid the escalating tensions, the PDP caucus in the National Assembly has stepped in to mediate.

Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro emphasised that the survival of the party must come before personal ambitions.

“I bring you solidarity from the National Assembly. I want to reiterate very emphatically here that the NASS caucus of our great party has always been in the forefront of having a united PDP.”

He acknowledged that the party had faced prolonged internal crises but insisted that unity was possible.

“Crisis has rocked the PDP for some time, and the NASS caucus under my leadership and Hon. Kingsley Chinda resolved that we must provide a platform so that we can act as one.”

Moro also made a personal appeal for compromise among party leaders.

“Whether I contest the election in 2027 or not, the survival of PDP is paramount to me. I cannot abandon it. Everybody should accept some level of sacrifice.”

House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda described the court ruling as a turning point for the opposition party.

“For us, we are happy that the judgment of Monday is not just for PDP but for democracy in the country.”

According to him, the decision could restore confidence among members who had previously defected.

“You have seen the exodus of our members in the past just because of the fear of the viability of the platform, but Monday’s judgment has laid all that to rest.

“Within a short time in the House of Representatives, you will see people defecting to the PDP.”

He stressed that genuine reconciliation must be built on fairness.

“Yes, we crave for peace, but whoever seeks peace must also seek justice. That is the only thing that can give us sustained peace.”

The party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) is also split between the rival camps.

The Adolphus Wabara-led BoT, aligned with the Turaki faction, rejected the Court of Appeal judgment but expressed willingness to pursue reconciliation.

In an eleven-point communiqué issued after its emergency meeting, the board said it disagreed with the ruling that invalidated the convention.

However, it also acknowledged the need for dialogue.

The communiqué stated that, “The Board… acknowledges and resolves to explore the window provided by the Court of Appeal, Ibadan Division, for reconciliation within the party.”

On the other hand, the BoT aligned with the caretaker committee urged the party to move away from endless legal battles.

Its chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, described the moment as critical for the party’s future.

“The court has spoken once again that the rule of law must prevail in our party’s internal affairs.

“Enough of litigation that will delay our activities towards the 2027 general election.”

Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan has advised the rival factions to resolve their dispute amicably.

Justice Biobele Georgewill, who presided over the three-man panel hearing the case, emphasised that the conflict should be treated as a family matter.

He urged the PDP leadership to prioritise unity in the interest of the party.

“The case has been adjourned sine die to allow all the parties to meet for reconciliation.”

The judge also reminded the party of the INEC timetable for the 2027 elections, which requires political parties to conduct primaries between April 23 and May 30.

At the grassroots level, several party leaders appear to be backing the caretaker leadership.

Chairman of the PDP Forum of State Chairmen, Austin Nwachukwu, said many state chapters were satisfied with the direction of the party.

“My colleagues who are state chairmen said they are very pleased with the way things are going on now in the party.”

He also called for reforms to strengthen the party’s membership structure ahead of future elections.

“We also wish to ask the party to critically examine the Amended Electoral Act, particularly regarding membership registration.”

The latest developments underscore the magnitude of the crisis facing Nigeria’s leading opposition party.

With preparations already underway for congresses, a national convention, and presidential primaries, the PDP leadership must quickly resolve internal divisions if it hopes to mount a credible challenge in 2027.

For now, the fate of the party appears to hinge on whether its rival factions can transform fragile negotiations into lasting unity. Read More

D’Tigress Crush Colombia 70–37 in Dominant Start to FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

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Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, Nigeria women’s national basketball team, popularly known as D’Tigress, opened their campaign at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup Qualifying Tournament with an emphatic 70–37 victory over Colombia on Wednesday.

The match was played at the Astroballe Arena in Villeurbanne, France, where the seven-time African champions delivered a commanding performance from start to finish.

Under the guidance of head coach Rena Wakama, Nigeria quickly imposed their authority, racing to an 18–12 lead in the first quarter.

The team maintained its momentum through disciplined defence and efficient offence, stretching the lead to 34–29 by halftime before pulling away further in the third quarter.

A strong surge in the third period pushed the scoreline to 53–34, effectively sealing the game before the final quarter, as D’Tigress maintained control to secure a comfortable 33-point victory.

Nicole Enabosi played a crucial role for Nigeria, recording 10 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists in an impressive all-round display.

Victoria Macaulay led the scoring with 13 points and posted the highest efficiency rating of 19, while Pallas Kunaiyi-Akpanah contributed defensively with two blocks and key rebounds.

Guard Ifunanya Okoro also added energy on the court, finishing with two steals and a key layup in the closing stages.

Colombia found it difficult to cope with Nigeria’s physical intensity and pace throughout the game.

Yuliany Paz was the standout performer for the South American side, finishing with seven efficiency points, five rebounds, and three blocks.

Mabel Martinez contributed six points, but the Colombian side failed to sustain momentum after a competitive second quarter.

The victory marked Rena Wakama’s 14th competitive win since her appointment in July 2023, giving her a 77 percent win record from 18 matches.

Her only defeats have come against strong international sides such as Belgium women’s national basketball team, France women’s national basketball team, and the United States women’s national basketball team.

Nigeria have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin after winning the Women’s AfroBasket 2025 title.

However, the qualifiers provide an opportunity for the team to test squad depth and refine tactics against strong international opposition.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to their next match against South Korea women’s national basketball team.

D’Tigress will also aim to build on their historic achievement at the 2018 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Tenerife, Spain, where they became the first African team to advance beyond the group stage.

Tambuwal Dumps PDP, Moves to ADC Citing Deepening Party Crisis

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Former Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal resigns from the Peoples Democratic Party and joins the African Democratic Congress, citing persistent internal crises and leadership disagreements

Tambuwal Dumps PDP, Joins ADC After Months of Party Crisis

Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has officially resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), bringing an end to his long association with Nigeria’s main opposition party.

Tambuwal announced his decision in a resignation letter dated March 11, 2026, addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Tambuwal/Shinfiri Ward in Tambuwal Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

The former governor said his exit from the party followed deep reflection and extensive consultations with political associates, supporters and stakeholders.

Explaining the reasons behind his move, Tambuwal cited persistent internal crises, leadership disagreements and widening divisions within the PDP as major factors that influenced his decision.

According to him, the prolonged disputes within the party had made it increasingly difficult for him to remain committed to the political platform.

Tambuwal noted that the conflicts had significantly weakened the unity and direction that once defined the party.

Political analysts say the development is another indication of the deepening crisis within the PDP, which has struggled with internal disputes and factional battles in recent years.

Despite his departure, Tambuwal expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunities it gave him during his political career.

Through the party, he served Nigeria in several important roles, including as Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as Governor of Sokoto State.

He also currently represents Sokoto South Senatorial District in the Senate.

Tambuwal acknowledged that the party played a significant role in shaping his political journey and leadership experience.

Following his resignation from the PDP, Tambuwal has officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside many of his political associates and loyal supporters.

The former governor said his decision to join the ADC was guided by his belief that Nigeria requires a stronger and more credible political platform capable of addressing the country’s growing governance challenges.

He emphasised that the new political platform must be built on integrity, accountability, inclusiveness and a clear commitment to national development.

Tambuwal also reaffirmed his dedication to public service and democratic values.

According to him, his political decisions remain guided by the principles of justice, national unity and service to the Nigerian people.

Observers say his defection could significantly reshape political alignments in Sokoto State and potentially influence broader opposition dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

For now, Tambuwal’s exit represents another major shift within Nigeria’s opposition politics, as political leaders continue to reposition themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle.

2023 PDP Governorship Candidate Sa’idu Umar Resigns from Party Over Leadership Crisis

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Mallam Sa’idu Umar, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Sokoto State, has resigned his membership from the opposition party, citing unresolved leadership disputes at the national level.

Umar announced his decision in a resignation letter dated March 10, 2026, addressed to the chairman of the PDP in Sarkin Adar Kofar Atiku Ward of Sokoto South Local Government Area.

In the letter, the former governorship candidate explained that his decision followed careful reflection on what he described as lingering legal challenges and the existence of parallel leadership structures within the party.

According to him, the crisis at the national level has remained unresolved and continues to undermine unity and effective political engagement within the party.

“This decision follows careful reflection on the lingering legal challenges and the existence of parallel leadership within the party at national level, which has unfortunately remained unresolved and continues to hinder unity, stability, and effective political engagement within the party structure,” he stated.

Despite his departure, Umar expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership and members for giving him the platform to contest the 2023 governorship election in Sokoto State.

“I remain sincerely grateful to the party for the confidence reposed in me through the opportunity to contest as its gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general elections in Sokoto State. I deeply appreciate the support of the leadership, members, and supporters who stood with us throughout the journey,” he said.

While stepping away from the party’s formal membership, Umar reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles and the development of Sokoto State and Nigeria.

“While I step aside from the formal membership of the party, I remain committed to the pursuit of good governance, democratic values, and the continued development of our dear state and nation,” he added.

Copies of the resignation letter were also sent to the PDP chairmen in Sokoto South Local Government Area and Sokoto State.

IGP Asks Court to Dismiss El-Rufai’s N1bn Rights Suit Over Abuja Home Search

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The Inspector General of Police has asked a Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai over the search of his Abuja residence.

El-Rufai is seeking N1 billion in damages against the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Chief Magistrate Court of the Federal Capital Territory, the office of the Nigeria Police Force Inspector General, and the Federal Ministry of Justice Nigeria.

The former governor is challenging the search conducted at his residence in the Asokoro area of Abuja, where law enforcement operatives allegedly recovered some items.

In a counter-affidavit filed before the court, the Inspector General of Police maintained that the search was lawful and executed based on a warrant issued by a competent court.

The police chief also argued that the suit filed by El-Rufai was an attempt to shield himself from investigation and possible prosecution.

According to the police, officers involved in the operation complied with all legal procedures, insisting that the search warrant was validly issued and properly executed.

The IGP further rejected claims by the former governor that the warrant was defective or unlawful.

During proceedings on Thursday, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ubong Akpan, told the court that he had yet to respond to the counter-affidavit filed by the police, although he had replied to that of the ICPC.

Counsel to the ICPC, Abdulsufianu Abubakar, and the police lawyer, Ezekiel Rimamsomte, did not oppose a request for more time.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik subsequently adjourned the matter to March 25 for hearing.

The judge also ordered that hearing notices be issued and served on the second and fourth respondents — a Chief Magistrate of the FCT and the Attorney-General of the Federation — who were not represented during the proceedings.

In his suit, El-Rufai is seeking a declaration that the search warrant issued on February 4 by a Chief Magistrate in the Federal Capital Territory authorising the search of his residence is null and void.

He argued that the warrant lacked specific details, contained drafting errors and failed to clearly state the items to be seized.

The former governor also claimed the operation carried out at his residence at 12 Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, Abuja, on February 19 violated his constitutional rights.

According to him, the search breached provisions of the Nigerian Constitution guaranteeing dignity of the human person, personal liberty, fair hearing and privacy.

El-Rufai is asking the court to award N1 billion in general, exemplary and aggravated damages for alleged violations of his fundamental rights, including unlawful search, seizure of property, psychological trauma, humiliation and reputational harm.

He also argued that the warrant contravened provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and the ICPC Act, which require that search warrant applications clearly specify the premises and items to be seized and be supported by sworn evidence establishing reasonable suspicion.

The case is expected to resume on March 25, when the court will hear arguments from all parties.

Ogun Deputy Governor: The Rise of Noimot Salako-Oyedele – Her Quiet Performance, Her Leadership Style…

A detailed political feature on Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, exploring her engineering career, leadership style, and influence…

Inside Her Quiet Political Rise…

By Lukman OMIKUNLE

When the administration of Dapo Abiodun took office in 2019, one figure quietly emerged as one of the most stable pillars of governance in Ogun State — Her Excellency, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

Her acceptance across political divides was never accidental. From the very beginning, it was driven by what many close observers describe as her authenticity and genuine desire to serve.

More than six years later, that early perception appears to have been reinforced by her steady performance in office.

Unlike many politicians who thrive on constant publicity, Salako-Oyedele has built a reputation for delivering results with minimal noise — allowing outcomes and beneficiaries of government programmes to speak louder than political rhetoric.

Since assuming office in 2019, the deputy governor has remained a consistent working force within the machinery of the Ogun State Government.

Her role has spanned policy coordination, community engagement, and implementation oversight across multiple development initiatives under the administration’s “Building Our Future Together” agenda.

The stability of her working relationship with Governor Abiodun has also been widely noted in political circles.

Seven years of collaboration without internal friction is rare in Nigeria’s often turbulent political environment.

Political analysts often attribute this to Salako-Oyedele’s technocratic discipline and team-oriented leadership style.

Governor Abiodun himself once described her as “a dependable lieutenant whose leadership and loyalty have been central to the success of this administration.”

Long before politics entered the picture, Salako-Oyedele had already built a strong professional reputation.

An engineer by training, she spent decades building a successful career in the energy and infrastructure sectors, both in Nigeria and internationally.

Her career progression included leadership roles in major multinational organisations, where she worked in oil and gas, infrastructure development, and engineering management.

That technical background later shaped her approach to governance.

Speaking at a Nigerian Society of Engineers event, she emphasised the central role of engineering in national development.

“Engineering has always been at the heart of economic progress—from infrastructure development to industrialisation and digital transformation,” she said.

She added that countries seeking economic transformation must empower engineers and innovators.

“Nigeria has all the ingredients necessary for industrial and technological transformation… but we must create an environment where engineering excellence and innovation can thrive.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Salako-Oyedele’s personal journey has also shaped her public image.

Before politics, she was widely known as a self-made professional who balanced career growth with family responsibilities as a wife and mother.

Those close to her say that balancing these roles helped develop the multitasking discipline that now defines her leadership approach in government.

Her supporters often point to this ability to juggle complex responsibilities as evidence of her administrative capacity.

While she is widely associated with women empowerment initiatives, Salako-Oyedele’s development philosophy extends beyond gender advocacy.

Her programmes have consistently focused on inclusive human development, supporting opportunities for women, youths and vulnerable groups alike.

During a leadership programme, she emphasized that leadership must be inclusive.

“Leadership is about service, vision and creating opportunities for others,” she said, stressing that leadership should never be limited by gender.

Encouraging women to pursue leadership roles, she also noted, “Leadership is not something we stumble into; it is something we must actively prepare for.”

Perhaps one of the most defining aspects of Salako-Oyedele’s political style is her preference for quiet effectiveness over dramatic publicity.

Observers say she has avoided the “celebrity politics” that often accompanies public office in Nigeria.

Instead, she focuses on measurable outcomes.

Her philosophy of influence reflects this thinking.

“Influence is not built in one viral moment; it is built in the little things you do daily,” she once advised young Nigerians.

“Consistency is the bridge between small beginnings and big impact.”

Over time, Salako-Oyedele has also become one of the most visible examples of female leadership within Nigerian state governments.

Her influence extends beyond Ogun State, particularly in national conversations around women’s political participation.

Prominent leaders have publicly recognised her contributions.

On her 60th birthday, Nigeria’s First Lady praised her dedication to governance, describing her service as impactful and inspiring for women across the country.

In a political environment often dominated by loud personalities and constant media battles, Salako-Oyedele represents a different model of leadership.

Her reputation has been built on technical expertise, discipline, and service delivery rather than spectacle.

For many observers, that combination of competence and humility explains why she has remained one of the most respected figures in Ogun’s political landscape since 2019.

Whether viewed as a technocrat, administrator, or political leader, one thing appears increasingly clear, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele has quietly become one of the most consequential figures in the governance story of Ogun State. Read More

“I Don’t Like Stress” — Don Jazzy Reveals the Qualities He Wants in an Ideal Woman

Nigerian music producer and record executive Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, has shared details about the qualities he looks for in an ideal romantic partner.

The founder of Mavin Records made the revelation while appearing on the Is This Seat Taken podcast hosted by actress Chinasa Anukam.

During the conversation, Don Jazzy said he is particularly attracted to women with calm and gentle personalities, explaining that he prefers a peaceful and stress-free relationship.

According to him, being soft-spoken and easy-going ranks high among the traits he values in a partner.

“My ideal woman for dating, in order of importance, first of all, you have to be a freak,” he said.

“Secondly, you have to be soft both in body and personality. Because if you shout at me, you are dating yourself.”

The music executive stressed that he avoids relationships filled with tension, adding that aggressive behaviour or constant conflict quickly turns him off.

“I don’t like stress. I don’t tolerate stress and violence. The moment you try to be nonchalant or violent, you will not see me again,” he said.

Don Jazzy’s comments have since sparked reactions online, with fans weighing in on his candid description of what he considers an ideal relationship dynamic.

“Stop Judging Women’s Bodies” – Nkechi Blessing Slams Double Standards Over BBL and Cosmetic Surgery

Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing Sunday has spoken out against what she described as the double standards surrounding women’s bodies and cosmetic surgery.

In a video shared on social media, the actress criticised men who now encourage women to embrace their natural bodies despite years of mocking and harsh comments about women’s physical appearance.

According to Blessing, the persistent criticism and ridicule many women face about their bodies have played a major role in pushing them toward cosmetic procedures, including the popular Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

She argued that societal pressure and unrealistic beauty standards have significantly contributed to the growing demand for body enhancement surgeries.

“You people mocked women for years because of their bodies, but now you are the same ones telling them to love themselves the way they are,” she said.

“Many women went for BBL because of the insults and pressure they received about their bodies. You bullied women for not having big backsides, and now you are telling them not to do surgery.”

The actress stressed that no amount of criticism or online abuse would pressure her into altering her body.

“This body is my hard work and the success I have achieved,” she added.

Blessing further emphasised that women should have the freedom to make personal decisions about their bodies without facing public judgment.

While noting that she is proud of her natural physique, the actress said she would only consider surgery for health-related reasons such as weight loss, and not for cosmetic enhancement.

“I am proud of my body, and I will not alter it because people talk. Women should be free to make their own decisions about their bodies,” she said.

She concluded by urging people to stop judging women for the choices they make about their own bodies.

UNILAG Management Faults ASUU Strike as Lecturers Protest ‘Amputated’ Salaries

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The management of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) has criticised the institution’s chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for embarking on an industrial action without following established procedures.

The union had announced the strike after a congress held on Tuesday, directing lecturers to withdraw their services from Wednesday over what it described as “amputated” salaries for January and February.

Chairman of ASUU, UNILAG chapter, Idou Keinde, said lecturers did not receive the full components of their pay. According to him, the unpaid items include the Consolidated Salary Structure for Academics, Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance, and the Professorial Allowance.

Keinde insisted that lecturers would not resume academic duties until the outstanding salary components were fully paid.
Reacting to the development, the university’s management, through the Head of the Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, said discussions with the union’s leadership were already underway to resolve the issues, particularly the unpaid Consolidated Academic Teaching Allowances.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the institution maintained that the union did not follow due process before declaring the strike.
“Management observes that due process was not followed in making this declaration.

Nevertheless, in its commitment to the welfare of staff and students, the university has continued to engage with the ASUU Executive to address all issues,” the statement said.

Despite the industrial action, the university assured students that ongoing semester examinations would proceed as scheduled, noting that the academic calendar had reached a critical stage.

The management warned that any disruption could adversely affect students, particularly those preparing for the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), internships, and those expected to proceed to the Nigerian Law School.

However, the institution acknowledged that some examinations might be postponed where students had already been informed by their Deans or Heads of Department that the tests would not hold.

It added that all examinations are expected to continue from Thursday, March 12, 2026, with deans directed to ensure adequate arrangements for their smooth conduct.

The university also appealed to members of the academic community to remain calm while discussions with the ASUU leadership continue in a bid to reach an amicable resolution.

Offa Chief Imam Urges Nigerians to Re-Elect Tinubu, Praises Ajala’s Post-Office Service

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An Islamic cleric and Chief Imam of Offa in Kwara State, Muyideen Salman, has called on Nigerians to support the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the president should be given another term to complete his reform programmes.

Sheikh Salman made the call during a Ramadan lecture organised by the Abdur Rasaq/Muheebah Foundation in Mushin, Lagos.

According to him, the Tinubu administration has demonstrated courage in confronting the country’s economic and governance challenges, noting that early signs of progress are beginning to emerge.

“The administration has been bold in tackling the challenges, and the gains of these bold steps have started to manifest. We must support his re-election so he can consolidate on these achievements,” he said.

The cleric also urged Nigerians to continually pray for their leaders rather than curse them, stressing that Islam encourages obedience to constituted authority.

“Islam enjoins us to obey our leaders and pray for them. It is ungodly to curse leaders in society; we should always pray for them,” he added.

During the event, Salman also commended former Chairman of Odiolowo‑Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area, Rasaq Ajala, for continuing to support and empower residents even after leaving office.

He described Ajala as a model of selfless service, noting that many politicians abandon community development once they leave public office.

“You are not rich if your wealth does not impact positively on others, especially the needy. Ajala has shown that service to the people goes beyond holding political office,” the cleric said.

Salman also encouraged politicians to prioritise empowerment initiatives for young people and vulnerable members of society.

As part of the Ramadan outreach, the foundation distributed food packs to more than 5,000 residents in the area. The packages included staple items such as rice, garri, beans and noodles.