Abejide Intensifies 2027 Consultations, Secures APC Leadership Backing for Third-Term Bid

ABUJA — The member representing Yagba Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Chief Leke Joseph Abejide, has intensified high-level political consultations ahead of the January 16, 2027 general elections, securing a key endorsement from the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In the early hours of Wednesday, Abejide’s consultation train arrived at the office of the APC National Deputy Publicity Secretary, Hon. Duro Meseko, where his Expression of Interest (EOI) and nomination forms for a third-term bid were formally presented and blessed.

Meseko commended the lawmaker’s legislative record, describing his nearly eight years in the National Assembly as impactful and development-oriented. He noted that Abejide’s recent defection to the ruling APC was a strategic move that would position him to attract increased federal attention and developmental opportunities to his constituency.

“It is only appropriate that a lawmaker with such a verifiable track record aligns with a platform that offers broader opportunities for effective service delivery,” Meseko stated, expressing optimism about Abejide’s prospects within the party.

Abejide, a former chieftain and financier of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), defected to the APC on May 1, 2026 — a move widely interpreted by political observers as a significant setback for the ADC’s influence, in Nigeria as a whole.

The lawmaker, who chairs a key House committee, is widely regarded for his constituency-focused initiatives, spanning infrastructure development and empowerment programmes.

Sources within his political camp say the ongoing consultations are part of a broader effort to consolidate grassroots and elite support ahead of the 2027 polls.

The statement was made available to journalists by the lawmaker’s Special Adviser on Public Communications.

With increasing backing from party stakeholders and a strengthened political base, Abejide is positioning himself strongly as the contest for the 2027 general elections gathers momentum.

ABU ’99 Economics Alumni Declares Support for Abejide, Lauds Records of Compassion and Loyalty

ABUJA —Bashiru Abdul Mohammed (BAM), ANIPR, Special Adviser on Public Communications to Rt. Hon. (Elder) Leke Joseph Abejide, member representing Yagba Federal Constituency, on Tuesday received Ambassador Pax Joel at his Garki office in Abuja, in what observers describe as an early show of grassroots and alumni-driven political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.

Pax, who was a coursemate of the lawmaker in the 1999–2003 Economics class of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, said he was delegated to formally convey the appreciation and solidarity of their classmates, friends of the class, and former lecturers. He described Abejide as a man of rare compassion whose commitment to his peers has remained steadfast for over two decades after graduation.

Speaking during the visit, Pax highlighted several instances of Abejide’s interventions in the lives of former coursemates, particularly in times of distress. He cited a recent case in which the lawmaker reportedly came to the aid of a female colleague facing a life-threatening illness that required significant financial resources.

“We thank God for having someone like him in our midst,” Pax said. “At a very critical time, we almost lost one of our female coursemates to a severe health condition, but Abejide stepped in and made a difference. This is just one out of many instances where he has supported members of our class and extended kindness beyond expectations.”

He noted that despite not playing active roles in Abejide’s previous electoral victories in 2019 and 2023, members of the ABU Economics Class of ’99 now consider it both a moral responsibility and a collective duty to support his re-election bid.

According to Joel, the group has resolved to back Abejide’s aspiration to return to the House of Representatives in the January 16, 2027 general election, where he is expected to contest for a third-term in the 11th National Assembly representing Yagba East/West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency.

He further expressed the readiness of the alumni network—both within Nigeria and in the diaspora—to mobilise support, forge strategic partnerships, and contributes meaningfully to ensuring the lawmaker’s successful re-election.

“We may not have been part of his earlier victories, but we believe it is time to stand up for one of our own who has consistently stood up for others,” he added.

Responding on behalf of his principal, Bashiru  thanked the delegation for the visit, describing their gesture as thoughtful and deeply appreciated. He assured them that their message of goodwill and commitment would be communicated to the lawmaker. 

“We are sincerely grateful for this show of solidarity and the confidence you have expressed in the Honourable,” Bashiru said. “Your support and willingness to partner with him in his future endeavours are well noted, and I will ensure that your message is delivered accordingly.”

The visit is seen by political watchers as a sign of growing support networks coalescing around Abejide ahead of the 2027 polls, particularly among professional and alumni groups with long-standing personal ties to the lawmaker.

Restoration of Kogi Constituencies a Victory for Justice, Rule of Law — Gov Ododo

LOKOJA —Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has described the ongoing process to restore state constituencies as a historic milestone that reinforces justice, equity, and the supremacy of the rule of law in Nigeria’s democratic system.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stakeholders’ meeting in Kogi State, Ododo said the moment marked a significant turning point for communities previously denied full representation, noting that the development would strengthen democratic governance.

The governor commended INEC for what he called its adherence to legality and due process, particularly in implementing the Federal High Court ruling in line with constitutional provisions. He said the Commission’s actions demonstrated institutional integrity and a commitment to upholding the law.

Ododo also praised INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ampitan, for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to fairness, adding that his conduct had boosted public confidence in the electoral system.

He acknowledged that upholding justice often attracts criticism, but urged the electoral body to remain resolute. According to him, “those committed to fairness and legality must be prepared to withstand opposition from vested interests.”

The governor further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing what he described as a credible and capable individual to lead the electoral body, noting that the decision was already yielding positive outcomes for Nigeria’s democracy.

He also commended the President for allowing the judiciary to operate independently, describing the development as a reflection of democratic maturity and respect for constitutional order.

Ododo assured INEC and other stakeholders of the Kogi State Government’s full cooperation throughout the exercise, disclosing that adequate security measures had been put in place to guarantee a smooth and safe process.

He highlighted improvements in the state’s security architecture, describing Kogi as one of the most secure states in the country, while urging the Commission to remain guided by fairness, justice, and due process in carrying out its assignment.

The governor concluded by welcoming stakeholders to the state and expressing optimism that the engagement would further deepen democracy and restore confidence in governance.

APC EXTENDS ASPIRANTS’ FORMS SALE AND SUBMISSION DEADLINES, ADJUSTS SCREENING DATES FOR 2027 ELECTIONS

 PRESS RELEASE

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has approved a further extension of the timelines for the sale and submission of completed aspirants’ Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, as well as the screening process for the 2027 General Elections.

Key Extensions:

• Sale of Forms: Extended to midnight, Wednesday, 6th May 2026

• Submission of Forms: Extended to midnight, Thursday, 7th May 2026

• Screening of Aspirants: Friday, 8th May 2026 – Tuesday, 12th May 2026

• Publication of Screened Aspirants: Wednesday, 13th May 2026

Signed:

*Felix Morka, CON*

National Publicity Secretary

All Progressives Congress (APC)

Please forgive me, former kogi SDP gov candidate, Muri Ajaka send apology to Yahaya Bello

In a twist of political events ahead of the 2027 general election in Kogi state, the former SDP guber candidate, Muri Ajaka has publicly send apology message to the former Governor Yahaya Bello for the roles he played in deepening divisions and disunity in the state during the 2023 guber election won by the current Governor Usman Ododo.

Recently, Muri Ajaka has declared his intention to run for the Kogi East Senatorial election come 2027.

A Call for Peace, Unity and Progress of Our Dear State.

As part of my commitment to consult widely and ensure that every step I take reflects the collective will and best interest of the people of Kogi East, I find it necessary at this moment to speak directly to my people.

The journey of the November 2023 gubernatorial election remains a defining chapter in our collective history. I had the honour of contesting under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), driven by a sincere desire to serve and to advance the interests of our people. That aspiration was never personal; it was born out of a deep conviction that our state could move forward in a more inclusive, just, and progressive direction.

During that journey, I witnessed extraordinary courage and sacrifices that words can scarcely capture. I remain profoundly grateful to every individual, every group, and every community that stood with us, our elders, our youths, our women, and our supporters across the state. I must also pause in solemn remembrance of our gallant supporters who lost their lives in the course of that struggle. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten. I pray that Almighty God grants them eternal rest and comforts their families. Their memory must continue to guide us toward building a more peaceful and united Kogi State.

However, it is also true that the intensity of that period strained relationships and deepened divisions. In particular, the political disagreement between me and the then-Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Yahaya Bello was marked by strong differences. I wish to state, clearly and sincerely, that those differences were never personal, but driven by the circumstances of the time and the passion for the causes we each represented.

In the overriding interest of peace, unity, and the progress of our dear state, I believe it is both necessary and honourable to rise above the past. I extend a hand of understanding and goodwill, and where my actions or words may have caused offence, I PROFOUNDLY APOLOGIZE in the spirit of reconciliation. I have chosen to let go of all grievances and move forward with a clear heart, without reservation.

At this critical point in our state’s journey, we must remind ourselves that no ambition, no contest, and no individual interest is greater than the peace, stability, and collective advancement of Kogi State.

Our focus must now shift from division to unity, collaboration, and from the past to the future; we must build together.

I remain committed, as always, to the service of our people, to the ideals of peace and inclusion, and to the shared goal of a stronger, more prosperous Kogi State.

Together, we will move forward.

—Yakubu Murtala Ajaka

4th May 2026

BREAKING: Abejide Fixes May 8–15 for N710m Community Intervention’s Disbursement in Yagba

YAGBA —Residents of Yagba Federal Constituency have been notified of the rollout of a N710 million community intervention programme scheduled to run from May 8 to May 15, 2026.

In a statement signed by the member representing the constituency, Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, the initiative is designed to reach all communities within the stipulated timeframe, with a detailed timetable already prepared to guide the exercise.

Abejide disclosed that the distribution process would be executed by a limited number of officials from the Leke Abejide Foundation, who have been selected and issued identification tags for the assignment. He explained that the approach is intended to ensure efficiency, security, and cost management.

According to the lawmaker, each community visit will last no longer than 30 minutes to allow the team cover as many locations as possible within the schedule. He urged communities to make adequate preparations ahead of the team’s arrival, warning that any community found unprepared would be skipped due to time constraints.

The statement further outlined a zonal participation structure, restricting movement to district levels to control crowd size. Communities within a specific district are permitted to accompany the team only within their area, after which they are expected to return once the team proceeds to another district.

“This arrangement is necessary to minimize crowd-related security risks and reduce operational costs ahead of the campaign period,” the statement noted.

The intervention will cover key axes including Isanlu, Oke-Oyi, Amuro, and Mopa, as well as council areas across Yagba East, Yagba West, and Mopamuro.

Abejide congratulated communities in advance, expressing optimism about the successful execution of the programme.

BREAKING: Abejide Gets APC Nomination Form from Support Group, Signals Third-Term Bid

ABUJA — Rt Hon. Elder (Chief) Leke Joseph Abejide has formally received the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives nomination form from the Leke Abejide Support Group, in a move that signals his intention to seek a third term in office under the ruling party’s platform.

The presentation of the form, which took place amid a gathering of loyalists and political associates, underscores growing grassroots support for the lawmaker, who currently represents Yagba Federal Constituency. Members of the support group, described the gesture as a demonstration of confidence in Abejide’s leadership, citing his track record in legislative performance and constituency development.

Speaking at the event, representatives of the group emphasized that their decision to procure the form was driven by widespread calls from constituents urging continuity in representation. They noted that Abejide’s contributions in infrastructure, youth empowerment, and social welfare have positioned him as a preferred candidate ahead of the next general elections.

In his response, Abejide expressed appreciation for the show of support, describing it as both humbling and a call to greater service. He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering people-oriented policies and sustaining developmental strides across the constituency.

Political observers view the development as a significant step in Abejide’s recent realignment with the APC, further consolidating his foothold within the party as preparations gradually begin for the forthcoming electoral cycle

2027 House Of Assembly: Motunrayo Olonikadi Idown Still Much In The Race

 

Greetings to the good people of Kabba/Bunu, the news flying around concerning the purported  step down of our candidate  is a lie from the pit of hell. It's on record that the said Bank Andrew out of his sheer desperation has once  lied that Hon. Motunrayo Olonikadi stepped down even before the present shenanigans he's displaying on social media. 

To us in the camp of Motunrayo Olonikadi,  our candidate is still very much in the race. However, we want to state emphatically, that we are much aware of his antics. Banks is only playing to the gallery as this satanic move is dead on arrival. 

In his desperate attempt to lure our candidate into stepping down, he cloned voices on phone to act as some influential people in the present government  urging our candidate to step down over fail promises.

It's on this note, we are giving him 6 hours to pull down this post misleading the teeming supporters of our candidate or face legal action. Meanwhile,  if our elders/Leaders in Oke-Koko failed to caution his desperation,  we promise to take this issues to His Excellency for his intervention. 

May God perpetually bless us all.

*Signed*

*Olonikadi Media Team*

2027 House Of Assembly: Motunrayo Olonikadi Idown Still Much In The Race

Greetings to the good people of Kabba/Bunu, the news flying around concerning the purported  step down of our candidate  is a lie from the pit of hell. It's on record that the said Bank Andrew out of his sheer desperation has once  lied that Hon. Motunrayo Olonikadi stepped down even before the present shenanigans he's displaying on social media. 

To us in the camp of Motunrayo Olonikadi,  our candidate is still very much in the race. However, we want to state emphatically, that we are much aware of his antics. Banks is only playing to the gallery as this satanic move is dead on arrival. 

In his desperate attempt to lure our candidate into stepping down, he cloned voices on phone to act as some influential people in the present government  urging our candidate to step down over fail promises.

It's on this note, we are giving him 6 hours to pull down this post misleading the teeming supporters of our candidate or face legal action. Meanwhile,  if our elders/Leaders in Oke-Koko failed to caution his desperation,  we promise to take this issues to His Excellency for his intervention. 

May God perpetually bless us all.

*Signed*

*Olonikadi Media Team*

JUST-IN: BAM Hails Abejide’s APC Defection as Timely, Courageous, Urges Constituents’ Support

 

GARKI, ABUJA —The Special Adviser on Public Communications to Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, Bashiru Abdul Mohammed (BAM), has commended his principal’s decision to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as both timely and courageous.

BAM, an ANIPR member, expressed optimism that the political realignment would open new opportunities for accelerated development in Yagba Federal Constituency.

Speaking shortly after Abejide’s announcement at a press conference, the media aide said the decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was in the best interest of the people, particularly in light of the lingering internal crises within the party.

He noted that the lawmaker’s return to the APC reflects a strategic step toward strengthening his capacity to deliver democratic dividends to the people of Yagba East, Yagba West, and Mopamuro Local Government Areas.

Describing Abejide as a leader committed to grassroots development, BAM called on constituents, political stakeholders, and supporters across the constituency to rally behind the lawmaker in his new political journey.

He added that sustained support for Abejide would ensure continuity of impactful representation at the National Assembly and further advance the welfare of the people.

BAM reaffirmed his confidence in Abejide’s leadership, stating that the defection would ultimately translate into greater benefits and inclusive growth for the constituency.