The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the outcome of the recent by-elections in Rivers, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as a decisive endorsement of President Bola Tinubu and his administration’s reform agenda.
In a statement issued in Ogba, Lagos, by its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, the party expressed appreciation to voters across the affected constituencies, saying the results represent a “clear and unmistakable referendum” on the President’s leadership.
According to the Lagos APC, the victories recorded by its candidates reaffirm public confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda and the policies being implemented at federal and state levels.
At a time when detractors have sought to misrepresent the direction of the country, the people have spoken decisively through the ballot,” the statement read.
“These results show that Nigerians recognise bold leadership, economic reforms, infrastructural expansion and institutional strengthening when they see them.”
The party argued that the by-election outcomes exposed what it described as the weakness of opposition forces, claiming they have failed to present credible alternatives to voters.
It further stated that strong online presence and digital activism by opposition elements did not translate into electoral success.
Democracy is ultimately decided by voters, not virtual trends,” the statement added, noting that social media influence alone cannot unseat what it called a performance-driven ruling party.
Looking ahead, the Lagos APC suggested that the momentum from the by-elections could extend into the 2027 general elections, expressing optimism about the party’s prospects.
If morning shows the day, then the forthcoming 2027 general election may well be a walk in the park for the ruling APC,” the party said, attributing the victories to what it termed decisive leadership and courageous reforms.
The chapter also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the elections, while praising security agencies for maintaining peace and order.
It concluded by reaffirming its support for President Tinubu and urging Nigerians including opposition members to work collectively toward national development.
The by-election victories are not merely political wins; they constitute a renewed mandate to serve the people,” the statement said.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that the outcome of Saturday’s Area Council elections in Abuja has clarified Nigeria’s political landscape, revealing both the ruling party and what he termed the “real opposition.”
Speaking in a nationwide broadcast on television and radio, Wike commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as the peaceful conduct of the polls.
According to him, the results reflected residents’ confidence in the current administration and the democratic process championed by the Federal Government.
The peaceful conduct of the election is a testament to the commitment of the people of the FCT to democracy and good governance,” Wike said. “This election has indeed shown that Nigerians now know the ruling party and the real opposition party.”
The minister lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for delivering what he described as a free, fair and credible exercise, while also applauding security agencies for maintaining order throughout the process.
I congratulate INEC for conducting a free, fair and credible election, and I commend the security agencies for their professionalism and dedication to duty,” he stated.
Wike further linked the outcome to what he called the developmental strides recorded in the FCT under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the administration had restored optimism among residents.
This election is a reflection of the President’s vision and leadership, and a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda has brought optimism and confidence to the people of the FCT,” he added.
He congratulated candidates of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who emerged victorious, urging them to justify the mandate entrusted to them.
To the winners of the elections, I urge you to serve the people with humility, dedication and commitment to excellence,” Wike said.
PDP Insists It Remains Credible Opposition Despite securing only one of the six chairmanship seats, the PDP described its performance as proof of its continued relevance as Nigeria’s leading opposition force.
In a statement by its National Caretaker Working Committee, the party congratulated Mohammed Kasim on his victory in Gwagwalada Area Council and hailed supporters for what it termed a gallant showing.
The PDP said its chairmanship win in Gwagwalada, alongside several councillorship victories across the FCT, underscored its resilience and grassroots support.
As the only opposition party that won one out of the six Area Council chairmanship seats, the PDP has reaffirmed that it remains a viable and dependable alternative platform,” the statement read.
The party also commended INEC and the Nigeria Police for the peaceful conduct of the elections while urging the electoral body to address observed gaps.
A PDP presidential aspirant, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, described the poll outcome as evidence that the party was regaining strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He said that despite internal leadership disputes and external pressures, the PDP remained structurally intact and capable of mounting a stronger challenge in future contests.
The PDP is a resurgent party. In spite of leadership disputes and pressure, the people stood firmly by the party,” he said.
With both major parties framing the FCT election outcome as validation of their political standing, the battle for narrative dominance appears set to intensify as attention gradually shifts toward 2027.
Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested 20 suspects for alleged electoral offences during the just-concluded Federal Capital Territory (FCT) local government elections, recovering more than N20 million suspected to be earmarked for vote buying.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Sunday, the anti-graft agency disclosed that the arrests were carried out on Saturday, February 21, 2026, across various area councils in the FCT.
According to the commission, the suspects were apprehended in Abaji (2), Gwagwalada (9), Kuje (4) and Kwali (4), for offences ranging from vote buying and vote selling to obstruction of electoral officers.
The suspects were arrested across the FCT for offences ranging from vote buying, vote selling to obstruction of officers to the tune of N17,218,700,” the statement read.
The EFCC further revealed that one suspect was found with N13.5 million in a vehicle parked beside a polling unit in Kwali Area Council.
The commission stated that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The February 21 elections were conducted across the six FCT area councils Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali and Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) amid reports of inducement at some polling units.
Election observers, including the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), documented instances of cash inducements ranging from ₦1,000 to ₦5,000 per voter, particularly in Gwagwalada and Kuje.
Results declared on Sunday by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) showed the All Progressives Congress (APC) winning five of the six chairmanship seats, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured one.
Artist, actor and former Big Brother Naija housemate Adeoluwa Okusaga, popularly known as Saga, has revealed that his appearance on the reality show was a calculated step to kick-start his entertainment career.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Saga disclosed that he auditioned for the show at the urging of colleagues despite never being a viewer.
“My colleagues at work literally begged me to go for Big Brother; I never watched the show,” he said.
According to the engineering graduate, his entry into the BBNaija house was far from accidental fame.
I went to Big Brother Naija to launch my career as an entertainer,” he stated. “When I was an engineering student in school, I didn’t even touch any of the creatives; I completely abandoned them. I started drawing officially the year after I left school.”
Saga drew parallels between engineering and the creative arts, arguing that both disciplines require imagination, intelligence and technical skill. He cited Italian polymath Leonardo da Vinci as an example of someone who successfully bridged art and science.
I love engineering. A lot of artists end up as engineers because to be an engineer, you need a powerful imagination. You need understanding, skill and you need to be smart,” he explained.
Reflecting on his journey, Saga said he focused strictly on engineering while in school, where he became known for his technical drawing skills. However, after graduation, he began seriously exploring music, fitness and visual art.
“When I was in school, I didn’t touch any creative work. My classmates are surprised now. Back then, they just knew me for technical drawing. I loved drawing diagrams and even did assignments for people,” he said.
He added that he would often take his drawing board to work, sketching during breaks while also nurturing his passion for singing and fitness.
Describing his time on BBNaija as challenging yet transformative, Saga said the experience ultimately reshaped his life.
The Big Brother experience was rough at the time, but in hindsight, it was absolutely worth it. I couldn’t have pictured my life playing out differently,” he noted.
Since leaving the show, Saga has transitioned fully into acting, featuring in several Nollywood productions while continuing to develop his music and visual art career.
The lawmaker representing Yakurr I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Cyril Omini, has confirmed that the arrest of former presidential aide Okoi Obono-Obla followed a petition he filed with the Nigeria Police Force over alleged defamation and malicious accusations.
The Cross River State Police Command had earlier announced Obono-Obla’s arrest. In a statement issued to journalists in Calabar, Omini said his petition was prompted by what he described as sustained defamation of character and the fabrication of serious criminal allegations against him, including claims linking him to cultism and murder.
The lawmaker alleged that on August 7, 2025, Obono-Obla and others accompanied police officers to his residence in Ugep around 3 a.m., alleging that he was harbouring cultists and kidnappers. He said the operation led to the arrest and detention of his security guard, Mr. Ebri Edet Ubi, also known as Edet Omenka, who was subsequently taken to Calabar.
Omini further claimed that some of his property was damaged during the search.
According to him, the situation escalated on October 6, 2025, when Obono-Obla publicly accused him of sponsoring cult-related activities and linked him to an individual’s death allegations he described as grave and damaging to his reputation.
Omini acknowledged that criticism is inherent in public service but stressed that there is a clear distinction between political disagreement and what he termed deliberate fabrication of criminal claims.
He said he initially refrained from reporting the matter out of personal respect for Obono-Obla, whom he described as a mentor and father figure.
However, he explained that the continued spread of the allegations across communities and social media platforms compelled him to seek legal redress.
The lawmaker maintained that he merely exercised his constitutional right to petition the police and did not order or influence Obono-Obla’s arrest, insisting that due process was followed.
He also dismissed reports suggesting the case involved certificate forgery or unlawful entry, clarifying that his petition strictly addressed alleged defamation and malicious fabrication of criminal accusations.
Reaffirming his willingness to submit to any investigation, Omini said he has nothing to hide and remains confident that due process will reveal the truth.
He urged constituents in Yakurr I to disregard rumours and conflicting narratives, pledging to remain focused on his legislative responsibilities as police investigations continue.
A former presidential aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has described the outcome of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections as a clear signal of the party’s political resurgence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Olawepo-Hashim congratulated party members and supporters, praising what he called an “outstanding performance” despite internal leadership disputes and what he alleged were deliberate efforts to weaken the party’s structure in the FCT.
The PDP is a resurgent party. Despite leadership disputes at the national level and deliberate efforts to weaken our structure in the FCT, the people stood firmly by the party,” he said.
The PDP was officially declared winner in one Area Council. However, Olawepo-Hashim argued that the party should have secured victory in three additional councils, alleging that its mandate was compromised in those areas.
Even with the obvious irregularities, the strength of the PDP was undeniable,” he stated. “The PDP is not declining. The PDP is rebuilding. And this is only the beginning.”
Beyond the chairmanship race, the party also won several councillorship seats across the FCT — a development the PDP chieftain said underscored sustained grassroots loyalty and organisational resilience.
He commended ward leaders, polling unit agents, and party supporters for what he described as their “unshakable loyalty to the party logo.”
You cannot suppress structure. You cannot intimidate conviction. The grassroots have spoken,” he declared.
Olawepo-Hashim maintained that the FCT results mark the start of a broader revival for the opposition party, expressing optimism that a united and stabilised PDP would pose a formidable challenge in 2027.
This election marks the start of our resurgence. If we can perform this strongly under strain, imagine what a united and fully stabilised PDP will achieve in 2027,” he added.
The FCT Area Council elections are widely regarded as a political barometer ahead of national contests, given their strategic location in the nation’s capital and their emphasis on grassroots mobilisation.
The polls were conducted amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP at the national level, with disputes over party structure and internal alignments fueling concerns about cohesion as the 2027 general elections approach.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated winners of Saturday’s elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano, and Rivers states, describing the outcomes as a significant boost to Nigeria’s democratic consolidation.
The polls, conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), covered chairmanship and councillorship elections across the six area councils of the FCT, alongside by-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II state constituencies in Rivers State, as well as Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
In a statement issued Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President urged the victorious candidates to discharge their mandates with humility, patriotism, and a strong sense of service.
He reminded them that the trust placed in them by voters is sacred and must be honoured through people-focused governance and inclusive leadership.
President Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as remarkable developmental strides in the territory, noting that such achievements had translated into political gains for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The President extended his congratulations to the APC’s national leadership and its Kano and Rivers State chapters for their performance at the polls.
He further lauded INEC, security agencies, and voters for ensuring the peaceful conduct of the elections, emphasising that credible electoral processes remain the foundation of sustainable democracy.
Democracy is enriched by participation and healthy competition,” the President was quoted as saying, adding that the discipline and sportsmanship demonstrated by contestants reflected the vibrancy of Nigeria’s democratic space.
Tinubu also urged INEC to build on the success of the exercise and continue improving the credibility and transparency of future elections. Observers monitoring the elections across the FCT and affected constituencies in Kano and Rivers reported a generally calm atmosphere at voting centres.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to deepening democratic governance, the President called for unity across party lines in pursuit of national development and institutional strengthening.
The Eselu of Iselu, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, backs Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo’s 2027 Ogun governorship ambition, praising her credentials and urging more space for women in leadership amid Ogun West’s push for equity after 50 years without a governor
Iyabo Obasanjo
Ogun 2027: Eselu of Iselu Endorses Iyabo Obasanjo’s Governorship Bid, Calls for Greater Women’s Inclusion
In a significant boost for gender inclusion in Ogun State’s politics, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North LGA, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has publicly backed Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo’s ambition to become the state’s next governor in 2027.
The monarch hosted the daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo at his palace during what he described as a private visit, according to reports from Vanguard and Punch newspapers.
Oba Akinyemi emphasised Ogun State’s proud history of producing exceptional women and called for equal opportunities in leadership.
“Whatever affects Ogun State affects Nigeria. If you look at the great women we have produced, the likes of Efunsetan Aniwura and Madam Efunroye Tinubu and even in contemporary times, you will see that Ogun is blessed with exceptional women,” he said.
He highlighted current role models, including Ogun State Chief Judge Mosunmola Dipeolu, as symbols of excellence.
The royal father praised Obasanjo’s impressive track record: her service as Commissioner for Health (2003–2007), her tenure as a Senator (2007–2011), and her impactful philanthropy through the Iyanuwura Foundation.
“The activities of the Iyanuwura Foundation are still fresh in our memory. She built human capacity across the state. She is a medical doctor by profession and a philanthropist. These are things that make us proud,” the monarch stated.
Oba Akinyemi urged men to rethink traditional barriers: “If somebody like her is willing to take the shot, we men should have a rethink and give women more room than we have been giving them. They will not see us as chauvinists.”
He drew global comparisons: “Tell me, is there any position in the West that women cannot occupy? Some prime ministers are women. If not for Kamala Harris losing to Donald Trump, the United States would have produced its first female president. We cannot ask women not to contest. It is a good development.”
The monarch stressed that contesting is a fundamental right: “We are traditional rulers; God knows tomorrow. We cannot erase the fact that she has every right to be governor. It is her civil right.”
He clarified the visit’s nature: “She did not come for royal blessing. It was a private visit. At the appropriate time, she knows the appropriate place to go.”
Amid Ogun West’s long-standing quest to produce the state’s first governor—50 years after Ogun’s creation—the Eselu called for unity across senatorial districts.
“We have to work together. Those contesting in Ogun West have been visiting people in Ogun Central. It is vice versa,” he said.
Obasanjo was accompanied by APC chieftain Pastor Abiodun Ajayi and Engr. Oluwatoyin Jokosenumi, the Bada of Owu Kingdom.
Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo hails from Ogun Central Senatorial District. Her entry into the 2027 governorship race introduces a formidable contender from outside Ogun West, intensifying the competition and posing a direct challenge to the long-standing agitation by Ogun West stakeholders—who have never produced a governor in the state’s 50-year history and are pushing for zonal equity and power rotation
However, on Friday, February 22, 2026, monarchs from Ogun West embarked on a high-stakes strategic visit to the Otta-Awori District Obas at the historic palace of the Olota of Otta, Oba (Professor) AbdulKabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, Lanlege Ekun II.
Newsheadline247 reports that the gathering focused on deepening unity and finalising a coordinated blueprint to finally deliver the Ogun State governorship to Ogun West in the 2027 general elections—marking the first time the senatorial district would produce a governor since the state’s creation 50 years ago.
At the heart of the discussions was the urgent need to forge a united front that safeguards and advances the collective interests of the Yewa-Awori people, amid growing concerns that lingering internal divisions and lack of cohesion could once again sabotage the region’s decades-long governorship ambition.
Yewa and Awori monarchs at the Palace of Olota of Otta on February 20, 2026
While front-runners from the zone include Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) and Rep. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, Obasanjo’s entry—after joining the APC and declaring her intent—adds a compelling dimension, especially with royal voices championing women’s leadership and regional equity.
Political watchers note that cohesion remains key to avoiding past divisions that have frustrated Ogun West’s governorship dream. Read More
Nollywood actress Adesua Etomi Wellington is ringing in her 40th birthday in style, sharing a series of breathtaking photos alongside a heartfelt message of gratitude.
Turning 40 on Sunday, the mother of two took a reflective moment to thank God for preserving her life, inviting fans to join her in giving thanks.
In a post that radiated confidence and joy, she described herself as “forty, blessed, loved, confident, and fine,” embracing the milestone with grace and awareness of life’s blessings.
Chapter 40. I’ve been waiting for you. Please thank God on my behalf. He has preserved my life, and I’m aware of it now, more than ever,” she wrote, celebrating a new chapter filled with love and confidence.
Cristiano Ronaldo shuts down exit rumours, saying “I belong to Saudi Arabia” and wants to stay at Al-Nassr after scoring twice in their 4-0 win over Al-Hazem.
Cristiano Ronaldo Declares ‘I Belong to Saudi Arabia,’ Wants to Continue at Al-Nassr Amid Transfer Rumours
Al-Nassr captain Cristiano Ronaldo has firmly quashed speculation about leaving the club, declaring his deep connection to Saudi Arabia and his desire to continue playing in the Saudi Pro League.
The 41-year-old Portuguese superstar made the heartfelt statement following Al-Nassr’s dominant 4-0 victory over Al-Hazem in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Ronaldo scored a brace to help his side reclaim top spot in the standings, with Kingsley Coman and Ângelo Gabriel also finding the net.
The win comes amid recent reports linking Ronaldo with a potential departure at the end of the season, fueled by his earlier protest over the club’s perceived lack of transfer ambition during the January window—which saw him miss several matches.
“I belong to Saudi Arabia. I want to continue here,” Ronaldo said, as quoted by renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano.
“It’s a country that welcomed me, as well as my family and friends. I’m happy here and want to continue here.”
Ronaldo’s comments underscore his commitment despite past frustrations, including a brief strike that raised questions about his long-term future. His contract with Al-Nassr runs until June 2027, and his on-field impact remains immense—he now has 117 goals for the club.
The brace against Al-Hazem also marked a personal milestone, pushing Ronaldo’s career goals since turning 30 to an astonishing 501.
With Al-Nassr back at the summit of the Saudi Pro League under coach Jorge Jesus, Ronaldo’s public pledge of loyalty boosts morale and signals stability for the ambitious project in Saudi Arabia. Fans and analysts now see the superstar fully recommitted to the league that has embraced him since his 2023 arrival. Read More
