Politics
Tension rise as 2.2 million votes decide Edo governor today

As residents of Edo State head to the polls today, the three main political parties have expressed their readiness for the election.
With over 2.2 million permanent voter cards collected, candidates of the parties —Senator Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress), Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party)— are hoping to get the highest number of votes.
The winner will occupy Osadebe House, the government house, which will be vacated on November 11 by the incumbent, Governor Godwin Obaseki, who has served two tenures.
The Publicity Secretary of the APC in the state, Peter Uwadiae, stated that his party was ready for the election.
He said, “Our campaign shows our readiness. We have done that which the law allows us to do and our campaign was issue-based. As a party, I can confirm that we are ready. Our fear is that one of the persons who killed the police officer at the Benin Airport is roaming freely and we hear he is in Edo Central mobilising for trouble and distorting the election, while other PDP leaders are also doing the same in Edo South.”
While expressing readiness for the election, the Deputy Director General of Media for the Asue/Ighodalo campaign, Dr Pedro Obaseki, voiced concerns that the process could be hijacked by thugs.
He stated, “It has come to light that this is part of a larger strategy to compromise these materials in Oredo LGA. Other local governments targeted for similar disruptions include Egor, Uhunmwonde, and parts of Ovia Federal Constituency.”
The Public Relations Officer of the LP, Sam Uruopa, said Akpata and the party were ready for the polls.
He urged INEC to play by the rules and advised security operatives not to intimidate, harass or molest the electorate.
Uruopa said, “The LP candidate is well prepared, done the needful, gone round 18 LGs and the over 193 wards three times, and he is the only candidate that went to the riverine area with speedboats and he was readily accepted. I can tell you that his preparation is second to none.
“For now, we have not had any fear over the process but we are urging INEC, a Federal Government institution, to be an unbiased umpire and play by the rules of the game.”
The battleground areas
Saturday PUNCH gathered that the major battleground will be in Edo Central, where Okpehbolo and Asue hail from.
The APC candidate has affirmed that he has the backing of the electorate from the zone and expressed hope that his tutelage under the late Tony Anenih will work in his favour.
Edo North is a stronghold of the APC, but the PDP has made inroads into the zone since the presidential election last year.
This development has been speculated to ruffle some feathers in a zone that a former governor of the state, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, still holds sway.
The state Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, who rejoined APC after his battle with Governor Obaseki, will also pull his weight in Edo North.
After a less-than-impressive performance in the 2023 general election, the APC has made significant strides in recent months, with the return of Mathew Urhoghide and Charles Idahosa—widely regarded as a masterstroke.
On the other hand, Ighodalo who hails from Edo Central, will also be relying on the popularity of his party in some parts of Edo South to emerge as a winner.
Akpata’s emergence as the candidate of the LP came to many as a surprise, but he admitted that the plan, which he termed deliberate, had been on for long.
The LP candidate’s stronghold is in Edo South, where he hails from, but he has toured the entire state to gain more supporters and present his manifesto to the electorate.
Despite the LP’s success in last year’s general election, the party has not rested on its oars as it is aware that its two main rivals, the APC and PDP are also consolidating in areas where they enjoyed popularity.
INEC calms citizens
To show its readiness for the election, the Independent National Electoral Commission has delivered electoral materials to all the 18 LG offices of the commission.
The Public Relations Officer of the Edo INEC office, Toyin Buoro, confirmed this to the Saturday PUNCH on Friday, adding that the election will begin in all the polling units at the scheduled time.
She said, “All the LG offices of the commission have their material with them. They will be warehoused in the Registration Area Centre in every LG. However, for security, they merged some of the RAC centres to become Super RAC centres, where the supervisors and polling unit officers will also camp for the night for easy access to their polling unit.”
A senior official at INEC assured citizens that the election would be conducted without tension, emphasising that the commission’s officials, security operatives, and other stakeholders would collaborate to ensure the poll’s success.
“The conduct of this election is a big task, which INEC is capable of handling. We are working with the police and other security operatives so that we will have a conducive environment to do the job. Edo people should go out and cast their ballot for the candidate of their choice on Saturday,” the senior official stated.
The State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Onuoha Anugbum, on his part, revealed that he supervised the distribution of the material alongside the INEC commissioner in charge of the state on Thursday.
He said, “We are here at the Central Bank to send the sensitive materials to their various local governments. Before we did that, we signed the materials and took the political parties and the security agencies to observe. To the glory of God, all of them have seen the sensitive materials and we have sent them to the various local governments.
“We started with Edo North, then Edo Central before Edo South Senatorial District. We invited everyone. You know INEC has the tradition of carrying everybody along.
“The sensitive materials include results sheets, voting sheets, we call voting sheets form A, we have form B, which is the ward collation results, form C, which is the local government collation results.”
Tinubu urges peace
President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, called on all stakeholders in the election to conduct themselves peacefully.
This was conveyed in a statement signed by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, titled, ‘President Tinubu urges peace and civility in Edo State governorship elections.’
“The President implores the governorship candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the democratic process and the people’s will.
“He believes in the voters’ ability to make informed decisions about their future leaders.
“President Tinubu emphasises that democracy thrives on civility, tolerance, patience, and respect for the rules of the game,” the statement partly read.
Tinubu praised the governorship candidates and political parties for their campaigns and expressed confidence in the professionalism and integrity of the security agencies and INEC officials.
Vote-buying, violence worry Yiaga
The Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, in a phone interview with Saturday PUNCH, said voter inducement had been observed in the build-up to the Edo election.
He added that political actors had exploited the prevailing economic hardship in the country, weaponising poverty to induce voters by offering free fuel and cash amounts ranging from N1,000 to N2,000.
Itodo said, “One of the concerns we have noticed and expressed is that what you will see tomorrow is the commercialisation of the voting process, with polling units potentially becoming epicentres of vote buying if security operatives do not hold politicians accountable.
“I am glad to learn that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will be fully present on the ground, but the issue of vote-buying extends beyond just arrests. If you look at the number of prosecutions secured for those who have bought votes, it has been very low, which is why there is such impunity.
“This is a highly competitive election and politicians are exploiting every avenue to secure victory. It will be no surprise that if we go to the polls tomorrow, we will witness all kinds of vote-buying. People may not show up to vote, and politicians might flood the space with money to entice them.”
He further raised concerns about potential violence in Edo South LGA, which was identified as a hot spot for electoral violence.
‘INEC should redeem image’
The Edo State Civil Society Organisations called on INEC to use the governorship election as an opportunity to restore its credibility by ensuring a free, fair poll.
The group, through its Coordinator General, Omobude Agho, made the appeal while addressing journalists in Benin.
He warned that anything short of a transparent election would further discourage citizens from exercising their voting rights in the future.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission must not discourage genuine voters through its actions or inactions during this Saturday’s Edo State governorship election.
“Tomorrow, Saturday, September 21, 2024, presents another golden opportunity for the commission to redeem its image.
“The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, must inspire confidence in our electoral processes, especially given the questionable and controversial outcomes of previous elections conducted by the commission.
“The continuation of democracy in Nigeria rests on his shoulders as the head of the commission. An umpire must be neutral, just, fair, and trustworthy to earn the confidence of the people,” Agho added.
Agho also commended the temporary suspension of the Edo State Security Network, stressing that the police and other security agencies must remain impartial during the election and ensure the safety of citizens.
He called on the citizens to use their PVC to cast their vote, adding, “It is your ultimate power and a fundamental human right. Do not mortgage or sell it for any amount.”
The Whillz Trust Foundation, through its Youth-led Electoral Reform Project, said the Edo State election will provide an opportunity for INEC and security agencies to restore confidence in the electoral process.
The Executive Director of Whillz Trust Foundation, Aaron Anyamwu, said, “A free, fair and credible elections in the state would begin the process of restoring the confidence of Edo and Nigerian youth in the electoral process.
The foundation also called on the police to uphold the tenets of professionalism and remain unbiased in carrying out their duties.
IG directs vehicular restriction
Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the restriction of movement during the election.
He gave the directive in a statement signed by the Force Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, which was made available to journalists.
“In preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6am to 6pm on Election Day. Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.
“To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorised security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorised vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.
“The IGP has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all,” the statement read.
The IG also advised citizens to report any suspicious activities or incidents that might jeopardise the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state.
Panic buying, hotels fully booked
Ahead of today’s election, some residents flocked to various markets for last-minute shopping to beat the restriction of movement order.
In addition to the markets, various motor parks were bustling with activities as commuters were seen travelling to various destinations to cast their votes.
One of our correspondents, who visited Ekpoma Market at Alli Square and its environs in Esan West Local Government Area on Friday, observed a heavy security presence.
Motorists were also making last-minute purchases at petrol stations to avoid being stranded.
Long queues of vehicles were seen at various petrol stations in the metropolis, including those buying fuel in jerry cans.
Customers also swarmed Automated Teller Machines and POS operators to withdraw cash in preparation for the day.
Despite the rush, the environment remained calm and peaceful, with people going about their normal activities.
At Irrua Market in Esan Central LGA, both buyers and sellers were seen in large numbers, engaging in transactions involving food commodities, groceries, and other sundry items.
Similarly, most hotels visited in the communities were fully booked by party supporters and voters, Saturday PUNCH learnt.
Many people were left stranded and disappointed when informed that no rooms were available.
At the hotels, there was a heavy security presence, with officers from the Department of State Service and the police on standby.
Edo commissioner raises alarm
Meanwhile, the state government has raised concerns over the action of political thugs allegedly moving to overrun INEC offices in some local government councils in the state.
The government also commended the military for stopping the suspected thugs who it said tried hard to overrun the INEC office in Oredo LGA in the state capital.
Addressing newsmen in Benin, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said the government was drawing the attention of Nigerians and the international community to the move by political thugs to seize control of INEC local government council offices across the state.
He said, “Political thugs have taken over INEC offices in Oredo, Estako West, and Esan West local government councils in a bid to hijack the process.
“The soldiers repelled the thugs and they have since moved across the road from the INEC facility.”
Politics
2027: Could Peter Obi Steps Down For Jonathan? Two Possible Outcomes

As we approach the 2027 presidential elections, the possibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan positioning himself as a formidable challenger against the current President, Bola Tinubu, is gaining traction.
This shift in the political landscape is bolstered by recent events that suggest a strategic realignment among key political figures. Click link to continue reading.
Notably, Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, recently held a crucial and discreet meeting with Jonathan in Abuja. This gathering has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about potential collaborations or endorsement scenarios leading up to the elections.
Should Obi choose to withdraw in favor of Jonathan, two significant outcomes could arise. First, Jonathan’s experience and recognition as a former president could galvanize support from a broader spectrum of voters, potentially positioning him as a strong contender against Tinubu. Second, such a move would indicate a willingness among prominent political figures to unify against a common opponent, which could reshape the dynamics of the race and influence the strategies of other candidates.
As we analyze these developments, the political implications surrounding the 2027 election continue to evolve, inviting further scrutiny and conversation about the future of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Recently, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, engaged in a significant and discreet meeting with Jonathan in the heart of Abuja.
“Today in Abuja, I had the privilege of meeting my esteemed elder brother, a distinguished statesman, and leader, former President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan. Our closed-door discussion was fruitful, centering on the pressing issues facing our beloved nation,” he stated.
An insider, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that influential political figures across the country are keenly interested in seeing Jonathan run for the presidency in 2027, urging Obi to consider stepping aside for the former president.
As Obi contemplates addressing his passionate Obidient Movement, various proposals are being considered, should both factions find common ground.
The source added that Jonathan might choose to align himself with a prominent candidate from the northern region, potentially selecting either Rabiu Kwankwaso or Bala Mohammed as his running mate.
In the meantime, the PDP Governors’ Forum, under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, has formally endorsed Shekarau as the consensus national chairman in anticipation of the party’s convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
This strategic move has garnered support not only from Jonathan but also from Peter Obi, who, during their recent discussions in Abuja, expressed solidarity with the PDP’s goals.
A close associate of both leaders noted that they swapped insights regarding the political landscape as it shapes up for 2027, commending Mohammed’s efforts to stabilize the PDP and steer it away from the betrayals that have marred its reputation in recent years.
For Obi to accept such condition, according another source, there must be three important appointment that will come directly from him if all plans work in 2027.
Politics
Fresh Crisis Looms In Lagos As Sanwo-Olu, Obasa In Supremacy Battle… Speaker Gives Governor Standing Order

Warnings are emerging that a new political showdown may soon erupt in Lagos State, pitting Governor Sanwo-Olu against Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. The unresolved tensions between these two influential figures suggest that the battle for supremacy is far from over.
Reports indicate that the Speaker, emboldened by a perceived directive from the executive, is contemplating a bold move to confront the governor. The air is thick with anticipation as these political rivals seem poised to clash once more, each determined to assert their dominance in the state’s power dynamics.
Another Executive-Legislative showdown is brewing in Lagos State as the House of Assembly under the speakership of Mudashiru Obasa today asked the State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to withdraw appointment letters to appointees who are yet to be “cleared by the Assembly.”
It is a public knowledge that Obasa and Sanwo-Olu are not on good terms. This was believed to be one of the reasons behind Obasa’s recent removal.
However, the speaker managed to secure the backing of the “powers that be,” who facilitated his return as speaker.
At plenary on Tuesday, lawmakers angrily reacted to what they described as “the growing practice of political appointees assuming office without the constitutionally required confirmation of the House.”
Obasa said the development was a direct challenge to legislative authority, warning that it “tests the powers of the House.”
He held the Head of Service responsible for issuing appointment letters without legislative clearance and announced that the official will be summoned to explain.
Obasa further urged the Governor to withdraw all letters issued to appointees yet to be screened.
This follows a motion titled “Need for Government Appointees to appear before the House for Confirmation.”
Hon. Setonji David, Deputy Chief Whip, cited Sections 126 & 198 of the 1999 Constitution, stressing that no public officer should assume office without legislative screening, warning that such actions undermine separation of powers and weaken accountability.
Hon. Desmond Elliot called the development “an insult to the House,” insisting that no appointee or institution should defy Lagos laws.
Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh noted that some agencies operate without legal frameworks, which erodes due process in a state built on the rule of law.
Hon. Stephen Ogundipe reminded all aspiring public officers that confirmation is not a mere formality but a safeguard to ensure competence, integrity, and good character.
Hon. Kehinde Joseph demanded sanctions for repeated constitutional breaches and urged that any funds spent by unconfirmed officers be refunded to government coffers.
Hon. Rasheed Shabi condemned the lack of respect for legislative authority, describing the issuance of appointment letters without confirmation as a direct affront to the Constitution.
The Speaker directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to forward the Assembly’s resolution to the Governor for immediate action.
Politics
FULL LIST: 20 States Tinubu Will Win Against Atiku, Jonathan, Obi In 2027 Election (SEE MAP)

As Nigeria’s political scene changes, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu faces big challenges in the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
He will encounter tough competition, with several opponents emerging among his rivals. This election could be one of the hardest fights of his political career. Click link to continue reading.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has resurfaced as a formidable competitor, adding to the list of Tinubu’s political adversaries. His return to the political arena could complicate Tinubu’s path to reelection, as Jonathan is a seasoned politician with substantial support.
Prior to Jonathan’s emergence, Tinubu was already contending with other well-known political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi. Both Abubakar and Obi ran against Tinubu in the 2023 election but were unable to secure victory.
In the lead-up to the 2027 contest, they have united within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and expressed their intentions to challenge Tinubu once again. Atiku Abubakar has made it clear that he intends to run as a northern candidate, while Peter Obi has publicly stated his desire to limit his presidency to a single term, aiming to govern for four years before yielding power back to northern Nigeria.
However, this pledge has drawn criticism from fellow coalition members.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has openly criticized Obi’s assertion of a one-term presidency, arguing that it raises doubts about the sincerity of his intentions.
El-Rufai has been vocal in advocating for a southern candidate to oppose Tinubu in the election, suggesting that Obi’s statement lacks credibility among the electorate.
Despite these challenges, many analysts believe that President Tinubu may still secure victories in several key states, leveraging his political strategies that could potentially surprise his opponents in the 2027 election. The states where Tinubu is likely to perform well include:
- Benue
- Kaduna
- Zamfara
- Nasarawa
- Plateau
- Borno
- Niger
- FCT
- Akwa ibom
- Rivers
- Imo
- Ogun
- Osun
- Ekiti
- Ondo
- Oyo
- Lagos
- Kogi
- Kwara
- Edo
These states, each with their unique political dynamics and constituencies, could prove crucial for Tinubu as he navigates the complexities and rivalries of the upcoming election.
Politics
FULL LIST: Analyst Reveals 20 States Jonathan, Atiku May Win Against Tinubu In 2027 Election

As Nigeria approaches its upcoming presidential election, the political landscape is becoming increasingly charged, particularly for incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Tinubu could encounter significant challenges from former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom are gearing up to launch strong campaigns for the 2027 election.
Tinubu may face formidable challenges from former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, both of whom are preparing to launch vigorous campaigns in 2027.
The upcoming election is shaping up to be an intriguing contest, with several prominent political figures signaling their intentions to challenge Tinubu’s presidency.
Among them, Goodluck Jonathan has been actively engaging in strategic consultations with various political stakeholders, seeking to build alliances and strengthen his position for a potential comeback.
Despite some critics pointing to notable achievements during his tenure, President Tinubu’s policies have faced backlash, which could culminate in a tough electoral battle. The following list of 20 states reflects a blend of political discontent and regional dynamics that may hinder Tinubu’s chances of securing victory in these areas:
1. Kano
2. Sokoto
3. Kaduna
4. Taraba
5. Niger
6. Zamfara
7. Benue
8. Anambra
9. Enugu
10. Abia
11. Bayelsa
12. Oyo
13. Adamawa
14 Kwara
15. Bauchi
16. Kebbi
17. Delta
18. Jigawa
19. Katsina
20.Ebonyi
The insights derived from this analysis underscore the multifaceted challenges that President Tinubu could encounter in these states, ranging from personal grievances to broad political influences.
As the election draws nearer, the dynamics within these regions will be closely monitored and could significantly impact the overall electoral outcome in 2027.
Politics
New INEC Chairman Identity Exposed Ahead 2027 Election, Northern Elder Sends Scary Warning To Tinubu

As the political landscape in Nigeria intensifies, several allegations have emerged concerning the appointment of a new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in anticipation of the 2027 elections.
The current INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, is set to retire from his position in less than 60 days after overseeing the presidential elections of 2023.
However, speculation regarding the potential selection of a particular individual from the political sphere have surfaced, prompting concerns that the President’s appointment could ignite significant discord within the country.
Amid the debate about Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s replacement, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, has warned that an alleged move by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government to appoint a controversial retired judge as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could plunged the nation into crisis.
Galadima alleged that Tinubu’s government was considering installing a retired Court of Appeal judge with a questionable reputation to head the electoral body.
Speaking in an interview on the Prime Time programme on ARISE News TV, on Monday, September 15, Galadima said: “Come November, there are rumours all over the place that this government is nominating a just retired court of appeals judge who is known for notoriety to be the chairman of INEC. I wish it is not true.
“Because if that man becomes the chairman of INEC, be rest assured that this government is inviting a civil war in this country,” he said.
Speaking further, the NNPP stalwart accused Tinubu’s administration of having no regard for the rule of law. “And we cannot be in a country where the government does not respect the law,” he added.
In a twist, Galadima, also criticised Professor Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC. He alleged that the electoral body has already been compromised in favour of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to Galadima, INEC cannot dictate certain electioneering procedures to the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly early campaign.
“The INEC chairman has already rigged the election for APC. “INEC has an inability to call political players to order.
“I painfully realised they are not in a position to call them to order because those who pay the piper dictate the tune, ” Galadima added.
Galadima, therefore, argued that such developments pose a direct threat to the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system and warned of dire consequences if the alleged plan goes forward.
“We cannot allow somebody that has a record of notoriety to be imposed on us as INEC chairman,” he declared.
Politics
VIDEO: What God Told Me; Primate Ayodele Issues Strong Warning To ADC In New Prophecy

The leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Prophet Ayodele has consistently made headlines week after week, whether by sharing a new prophecy that captures attention or by commenting on the fulfillment of a previous prophecy that is generating discussion.
Ayodele, has issued a strong warning to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), cautioning that despite being a promising political party, it is plagued with internal betrayal that could threaten its unity.. …click link to watch Ayodele’s video here
Primate Ayodele described ADC with the potential to influence Nigeria’s political landscape, but he noted that hidden elements within the party are working against its progress.
According to him, the spirit of betrayal and disunity among members could lead to serious internal crises if not addressed urgently.
The cleric advised ADC leaders to remain vigilant and strengthen internal structures to prevent imminent separation and collapse; He further urged the party to foster genuine unity and transparency, stressing that only by doing so can ADC fulfill its political potential and become a strong force in future elections.
Would you like me to make this longer with more prophetic depth and advisory tone, the way Primate Ayodele usually frames his warnings, or keep it short and news-straightforward?
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