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.

Hon Leke Abejide dumps ADC, cites unlawful hijack of party leadership

PRESS RELEASE ON MY POLITICAL REALIGNMENT FOR THE PROGRESSIVE PROMOTION OF YAGBA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY

It is a painful but necessary decision to realign politically in order to safeguard my future and protect the ideals I have long stood for. This decision became inevitable following the activities of individuals who infiltrated and destabilized my former political party—one I laboured tirelessly to nurture and build with deep commitment.

For clarity and public understanding, it is important to outline the sequence of events that led to this decision. Around August 2025, I instituted a legal action against leaders of the ADC Coalition, including Senator David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, Chief Ralph Nwosu, and the party itself. During the court’s long vacation, my legal team successfully applied for an accelerated hearing in view of the approaching electoral timelines. The presiding Judge granted this request to ensure timely justice, allowing all parties to determine their political paths ahead of the primaries.

However, the defendants adopted delay tactics by introducing multiple parties into the suit, thereby frustrating the proceedings. This prolonged the case until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released the timetable for the 2027 general elections. As a result of these deliberate delays, my counsel advised that I consider alternative political platforms to pursue my ambition.

Further legal advice revealed that the ADC had become structurally compromised, lacking validly recognized leadership capable of fulfilling mandatory electoral requirements, such as endorsing nomination forms. It became evident that the so-called coalition had no genuine intention to strengthen the party but rather to undermine long-standing members like myself—those who had remained loyal since 2019 and contributed significantly to the party’s growth and electoral successes.

To my fellow Nigerians, and especially my loyal supporters in Yagba Federal Constituency, Kogi State, and beyond, I address you at this critical time. The crisis that engulfed the ADC, marked by unlawful takeover and leadership disputes, necessitated my recourse to the Federal High Court in defense of my constitutional right to freedom of association.

I joined the ADC with a vision and invested my resources and energy to build it into a nationally recognized platform with legislative representation. As National Leader, I funded party structures and later relinquished leadership to the current National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala, whom I wish well in his ongoing legal battles. While our collective aspiration was to build a party of pride and integrity, circumstances have taken a different turn.

After wide consultations with political leaders, constituents, and supporters who share my vision—aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—I have resolved to continue my political journey within a more stable and progressive platform. This decision was made after deep reflection and prayer, drawing inspiration from Isaiah 9:10: “The bricks are fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones; the sycomores are cut down, but we will change them into cedars.” I am determined to rebuild on a stronger foundation that will better serve my people.

I also wish to address the claim that I was expelled from the ADC on April 14, 2026. I categorically state that I had, prior to that date, voluntarily withdrawn my membership in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution. My exit was lawful, deliberate, and final.

Furthermore, I must clarify a widely circulated video involving Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President. His remarks advising me to remain in the ADC and “fight” were made in a lighthearted and informal context, consistent with our usual interactions. They have been grossly misinterpreted and taken out of context. At no point did he advocate the destruction of any political party. On the contrary, he encouraged due process and wished me well in my legal pursuit. Any attempt to portray his comments as undemocratic is both misleading and unfounded.

Recent developments, including the Federal High Court judgment delivered by Hon. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on April 29, 2026, have further validated my concerns about the internal inconsistencies and constitutional breaches within the party.

Finally, I want to appreciate you all for standing by me in the trying times of building a virile political party that was unfortunately hijacked by individuals known for such tendencies since the return of democracy in 1999. On this note, I am officially informing you that I have moved on from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to pursue my future political ambitions on a more viable platform.

Thank you for your attention.

RT. HON. LEKE ABEJIDE

KABBA APC LEADERS ZONE ASSEMBLY SEAT TO ASUTA/OKEKOKO WARDS, SEEK UNITY AHEAD OF PARTY PRIMARY

The leadership of the All Progressives Congress in the Kabba District of Kabba/Bunu LGA has zoned the Kabba/Bunu Constituency 1 seat to Asuta and Okekoko wards in a bid to arrive at consensus candidate in order to foster unity and party cohesion ahead of the primary election of the party. The decision forms part of far reaching decision reached at a well attended meeting of Party executive members, government officials and critical stakeholders in the nine(9) wards of the the district.

While setting the tone of the meeting in his opening remarks at the beginning of the meeting, Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy Matters and Chairman Forum of Special Advisers in Kogi State, Omoluabi Bode Adeyemi welcome leaders to the meeting, stating that it was a crucial one called to allow party stakeholders take far reaching decisions in the spirit of oneness, equity, fairness and Justice. He said it is a thing of joy to note that the suppressed constituency that had eluded the people for over thirty six(36) had returned, thereby offering the community the opportunity to field candidate that would represent them in the Kogi State House of Assembly.

Omoluabi further enjoins leaders and stakeholders to close ranks in the best interest of Oweland and overall success of the party in the LGA. He assured members of the party present that the leadership will ensure that the process is thorough, fair and just. He challenged leaders to come with open mind in the interest of the party and success of the Governor.

On his part, the Kabba/Bunu LGA Chairman, Barr Zacheous Dare Michael thank the leaders for their promptness in responding to short notice of the meeting and enjoined them to keep the interest on. He said it was out of his patriotic zeal that made him to approach the Federal High Court to seek for the restoration of the suppressed constituency which is today a beautiful reality. He challenged the party leaders to allow for a rancour free and transparent primary process in the overall interest of the party and anticipated success in the general election.

While speaking to party faithful, APC Leader and Chairman of Stakeholders of the party in the community, Elder Benjamin Olowodola thanked the leaders for converging for the meeting at the shortest notice and urged them to continue to work for the success of the party and victory ahead. He enjoined party stalwarts to allow fairness to guide their decision making process in order for the party to succeed at the poll.

On his part, Special Adviser to the Governor, Hon Jethro Funsho Oni also commended the seeming unity the attendance has demonstrated, he urged that the tempo is sustained in the overall interest of the party.

Other speakers at the meeting were Col Yomi Dare rtd, Elder Stephen Makun former Cabinet Secretary Government House, Engr SB Bello, former LGA Chairmen of Kabba/Bunu LGA, Hon Emmanuel Ayo Aledare APC Zonal Chairman Kogi West and host of others.

At the end of the deliberations, stakeholders resolved and zoned the assembly seat to Asuta and Okekoko Wards of Kabba leaving contestants to five people from the two wards. Stakeholders further adjourned the meeting to a yet to be announced date in order to allow for more consultation, consensus building, political alignment and resolution ahead of the next meeting.

JUST IN: Abejide Applauds Tinubu Over Enikanolaiye’s Appointment as Minister of State

FCT —The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, Leke Abejide, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

Abejide, who represents Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State, described the elevation of Enikanolaiye from Special Adviser on Foreign Affairs to ministerial level as “well-deserved,” citing his over three decades of experience in diplomacy.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the lawmaker noted that the new minister had previously served as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and held several strategic diplomatic positions, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver in his new role.

He said Enikanolaiye’s vast experience would complement the efforts of the senior minister in strengthening Nigeria’s international relations and advancing economic diplomacy to boost trade and investment.

Abejide also expressed optimism that the combined expertise of the foreign affairs leadership would deepen Nigeria’s bilateral and multilateral engagements, adding that the appointee’s legacy would be “indelible” in promoting the country’s global interests.

Congratulating Enikanolaiye, the lawmaker prayed for divine guidance and success in office, urging him to leverage his experience to further enhance Nigeria’s diplomatic standing.

He further appreciated President Tinubu for the appointment, stating that it reflects the administration’s recognition of Kogi State and demonstrates the president’s responsiveness to national considerations