Ganduje welcomes Governor Yusuf of Kano back to APC, assures him of second term ticket

Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, on Monday urged all governorship aspirants to step aside for Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ganduje made the call shortly after receiving Gov. Yusuf into the party at a colourful ceremony held at Government House, Kano.
He stated that anyone seeking to govern Kano should put his ambitions on hold to enable Gov. Yusuf complete his two tenure.
The former national chairman commended Gov. Yusuf for being bold enough to defect to the rulling party and for putting Kano first above all other things.
While formally receiving the governor back to APC, Ganduje said, “I can categorically tell you that you are going to win the 2027 election with a landslide margin because all those contesting for the same seat have agreed to step aside and let you go for it.
“To us the leaders of the APC, this is a memorable occasion we have all been waiting for. I strongly welcome Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf back to his home.
“We were in APC together with you; it was formed with you. But later, because of political differences and redirection, you left for the NNPP.
“Now, we are thankful to our creator, you are back to our party and your home.”
Ganduje described the governor as a progressive politician, “as evident in your utterances, policies, as well implementation of such policies.
“As the leader of APC in Kano today, you embody the party’s policies.”
This according to him, this has put to rest speculations about party leadership in Kano, declaring that, “Gov. Yusuf today stands as the leader of the party in the state.”
He also emphasised that, “President Tinubu is a true Nigerian and a politician who treats citizens not base on religion or ethnicity. I assure you Abba will win in 2027.”
The Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, commended Gov. Yusuf for his courageous decision to return to APC, insisting that the decision remained a lasting one. (NAN)

Alaafin conspicuously absent as Oyo State marks 50th anniversary

Activities to mark the 50th anniversary of Oyo State officially began on Monday, though the opening ceremony was overshadowed by the notable absence of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

The ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan, featured a welcome address by Governor Seyi Makinde and a goodwill message delivered by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Edward Ogundoyin.

The event formally launched a series of programmes commemorating the state’s creation five decades ago.

Oyo State was established on February 3, 1976, during the military administration of the late General Murtala Mohammed, with Brigadier David Jemibewon appointed as its first military governor.

Several traditional rulers from across the state were present at the anniversary opening, including the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

However, observers noted that the seat designated for the Alaafin of Oyo remained vacant throughout the ceremony, a development that reignited public discussion about the strained relationship between the two foremost monarchs.

The Alaafin’s absence comes against the backdrop of a recent public encounter between the two traditional rulers at the 2026 interfaith gathering held at the Grand Space near the Oyo State House of Assembly.

An interaction between them at the event attracted widespread attention after a video circulated on social media.

In the footage, the Alaafin, who had arrived earlier and was already seated, was seen extending his hand in greeting as the Olubadan approached his seat. The gesture was not reciprocated, prompting the Alaafin to withdraw his hand.

The incident quickly sparked debate across the state and beyond.
In response, a coalition of monarchs, mogajis, baales and prominent indigenes of Ibadan issued a statement condemning what they described as disrespect toward Ibadan’s traditional institutions.

The group maintained that Ibadanland is not subordinate to the Alaafin of Oyo and argued that offering a handshake while seated was contrary to accepted traditional protocol.

APC issues Press Statement over alleged plans to replace Shettima ahead of 2027 General elections

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly rejected reports alleging plans to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the claims as unfounded and misleading.

In a statement issued on Monday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC said it had taken note of increasing media speculation surrounding the vice presidency, including the circulation of names purportedly being considered as alternatives to Shettima.

The ruling party dismissed the reports as “entirely speculative and without any factual basis,” warning media outlets and commentators against promoting what it termed rumours originating from unreliable and mischievous sources.

The APC also drew attention to the fact that political activities ahead of the next general elections remain prohibited under existing laws and electoral guidelines, stressing that discussions about party tickets for 2027 are premature and inappropriate at this time.

According to the party, its immediate focus remains on supporting President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in delivering the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

This, it said, includes ongoing economic reforms designed to stabilise the economy, stimulate growth, and improve the welfare of Nigerians.

The party further advised ministers, senior government officials, and party leaders to exercise restraint in their public comments and conduct, cautioning that careless statements could fuel unnecessary speculation.

Instead, it urged them to concentrate on effective governance and highlighting the achievements of the Tinubu-led administration.

The APC reaffirmed its commitment to unity within the party and to providing the necessary political backing for the success of the current administration.