IPAC tasks stakeholders on eliminating gender-related barriers
By Emmanuel Oloniruha
National Chairman of Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Yusuf Dantalle, has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts toward eliminating all gender-related barriers, especially those inhibiting inclusive politics in Nigeria.
Dantalle made the call on Wednesday in Abuja at a conference for women political leaders, with the theme “Breaking Barriers and Shaping Positive Attitudes for Inclusive Politics in Nigeria.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two-day conference was organised by National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), in collaboration with the IPAC Directorate of Women Affairs.
Dantalle said that the awkward barriers, including culture, stereotypes, poverty, lack of education and violence against women, impeding women participation in politics had no place in modern society and must be broken immediately.
He said that in any democratic society, the active participation of women in politics was critical to achieving inclusivity, equality, equity and sustainable development.
“It is obvious that democracy is dependent on active participation and representation of all citizens in democratic institutions and processes.
“When a section of the society is under-represented in policy discussions, they feel marginalised. This is the case with women who constitute about 50 per cent of the nation’s population.
“We cannot advance our democracy if half of the population is excluded from the political sphere. This injustice shall not stand,’’ he said.
Dantalle said that women’s rights, including right to live free from violence and discrimination, right to be educated, to own property and to political participation must be respected.
He said that it was unfair and unjust to deny women these basic rights because of their gender, particularly right to political participation and representation in decision-making processes.
“I charge Nigerian women to rise up and take their rightful place in politics and governance.
“It is time for them to break the glass ceilings, join political parties of their choice, contest various elective positions and prove their ability to lead, bearing in mind that power is not given; it is taken.
“If women do not participate in the electoral process, there is no way they can be elected president or vice-president, governors or deputy governors, senators, House of Representatives members, state legislators and councillors,’’ he said.
Dantalle reiterated IPAC’s call for the passage of the bill on the reservation of special seats for women in parliament pending at the National Assembly.
He said that IPAC would intensify action to ensure that the bill scaled through the House of Representatives and Senate, and assented to by the president.
Dantalle also called on the national assembly to also pass the Electoral Offences Commission Bill.
This, according to him, will ensure the prosecution of electoral offenders and their sponsors, to serve as a deterrence to those inclined to undermine the integrity of the nation’s elections.
“To further safeguard the integrity of the electoral process, IPAC advocates for a single-day general elections.
“A single-day election will reduce costs, minimise disruption of economic and academic activities, maintain voter enthusiasm throughout the process and address logistical challenges.
“This is in line with global practices, as obtainable in Ghana, Sierra Leone, the United States and Venezuela,’’ he said.
The Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, said that in spite of the commendable strides in various sectors, Nigeria continued to grapple with a significantly low level of women’s representation in elective and appointed positions.
Omotayo, represented by the Director of Administration, NIPSS, Suleiman Kabir, said that the deficit was not just a matter of gender equality, but a fundamental challenge to the inclusiveness and effectiveness of Nigeria’s democracy.
“This conference, therefore, comes at a crucial juncture. It serves as a crucial platform for political leaders, women leaders, policymakers and intellectuals to tackle key issues.
“These issues include identifying barriers to women’s participation, shaping positive societal attitudes toward women’s leadership and developing inclusive strategies for political engagement,’’ he said.
In his remarks, the President, Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), Amb. Emmanuel Okafor, stressed the need for policy reforms, establishment of a robust legal framework and cultural and social reorientation that would promote gender equality and ensure a level-playing field for all.
Okafor said that achieving these objectives would require deep and sustained collaboration among government agencies, civil society and the private sector.
“As we strive to dismantle barriers and challenge stereotypes, we must also nurture a culture of inclusion, dignity and mutual respect.
“We owe it to ourselves, our daughters and future generations to build a Nigeria where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive,’’ he said.
NAN reports that highlights of the occasion included the unveiling of Action Plan Women Directorate of IPAC. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq
LG poll: Chairmanship aspirants to pay N5.5m as Lagos APC fixes nomination fees
By Adeyemi Adeleye
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has fixed the nomination and administrative fees for aspirants seeking to vie for the different seats in the July 12 Local Government Election in Lagos State.
The fees are contained in the party’s election guidelines, jointly signed by Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi and Dr Adeola Jokomba, the APC chairman and secretary, respectively.
The party, in the guidelines released on Tuesday, said chairmanship aspirants are to pay N5 million as nomination fee and an additional N500,000 as administrative fee.
According to the party, female chairmanship aspirants are to pay N2.5 million as nomination fee and same N500,000 as administrative fee.
APC noted that aspirants below the age of 40 years would have 50 per cent discount on their nomination fee, but will pay same administrative fee of N500,000.
The party, however, waved the nomination fee for aspirants with disabilities, while charging an administration fee of N250,000.
“For the councillorship position, male aspirants will pay N1 million for nomination form and N100,000 administrative fee, while female aspirants will pay N250,000 for nomination form and N100,000 as administrative fee.
“Youths aspiring for councillorship positions will have 50 per cent discount for nomination form fee, while the administrative fee remains the same.
“Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) will collect the nomination forms free for councillorship seats, while the administrative fee is N50,000.
“There shall not be a separate fee for Vice Chairman. These fees shall be paid by way of bank draft in favour of All Progressives Congress, Lagos State,” the party added.
Giving more details, the party said nomination form for chairmanship position shall be supported by five registered members, who are registered voters in all the aspirants’ wards, local government or LCDA.
It noted that for the councillorship seats, the nomination form shall be supported by 20 registered members, who are registered voters in the aspirants’ wards.
The party said all aspirants must be Nigerian citizens in addition to possessing other qualifications and meeting other conditions for the election.
“An aspirant must be educated up to at least school certificate level or its equivalent, and a higher qualification will be an added advantage.
“For council and LCDA chairmanship, the aspirant has to attain the age of 30 years, while for councillorship, the aspirant has to attain the age of 25 years.
“All aspirants are to submit evidence of membership of the party. Aspirants are to submit a demonstrable evidence of active party support.
“Aspirants must provide a portfolio of loyalty to the party. All Aspirants must sign the party’s Code of Conduct.
“Only aspirants cleared by the Screening Committee shall be eligible to stand election at the party’s primaries,” the party said.
According to the party, any party office holder interested in contesting for an elective office (whether party office or office in a general election) shall resign and leave office 30 days prior to the date of election or party primary.
It said that all aspirants “shall comply with constitutional provisions and requirements applicable to the public office they seek to contest for”. (NAN)(www.nanmews.ng)
Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Buhari Bolaji
PWD stakeholders partner with Reps Committee for national inclusive Sports Festival
By EricJames Ochigbo
Some stakeholders, in collaboration with the House of Representatives Committee on Persons with Disabilities (PWD), have resolved to organise a National Inclusive Sports Festival for PWDs.
The stakeholders, including Afestac Media, Advocates for Global Peace Forum International, the Association of Accessibility Professionals, and Big C Real Estate and Property, unveiled the plan in Abuja.
The sports festival is one of the initiatives under the PWD’s Potentials Unhinged Project (PP-UP), aimed at promoting inclusivity.
In his remarks, the Project Director of PP-UP, Mr Valentine Zhyon, stated that the project was designed to ensure the welfare, empowerment, and well-being of PWDs across Nigeria.
He explained that the project comprised five sections.
“The first is nationwide medical outreach for PWDs, followed by PWD-got-talent, a platform where PWDs can showcase their skills and win prizes.
“The third section is the Unlimited Television Reality Show, where a champion will emerge after a series of evictions.
“Additionally, there is the One Stage Africa section, which gives PWDs the chance to perform alongside global artists. Finally, the project includes the National Inclusive Sports Festival.
“This is a sports festival where PWDs will compete in events like the marathon and other sports for prizes.
“We want to showcase their gifts and talents to the world, helping deepen inclusivity,” he said.
The Chairman of the House Committee on PWDs, Rep. Bashiru Dawodu (APC-Lagos), commended the initiative.
He emphasised that in other countries, PWDs enjoyed extensive social welfare and empowerment, with some even pretending to be PWDs to benefit from the system.
Dawodu stressed the importance of viewing PWDs through the lens of empowerment rather than pity, noting that the committee was focused on this perspective.
He also highlighted that anyone could become a PWD in an instant and emphasised the importance of ensuring that policies support them.
He further explained that the National Assembly had passed a law to ensure easy access to public buildings, employment quotas for PWDs, and the protection of their rights.
He expressed the House’s commitment to enforcing these laws and supporting activities that enhanced the well-being of PWDs.
“After serious assessment, we decided to partner with this organisation, and that’s why we gave our approval.
“It’s important for society to understand that empowering people with disabilities is not charity, it’s about creating a system where everyone, regardless of disability, has the opportunity to thrive,” he said.
The lawmaker commended the stakeholders for their efforts and expressed hope that their strength and commitment would continue to grow, improving life for PWDs across Nigeria. He assured them of the House’s continued support.
Dr Joachim Aforjama, Managing Director of Big C Real Estate and Property, also pledged support for the festival, emphasising his firm’s reputation for backing sports and welfare initiatives.
He expressed excitement about the partnership with the committee and PP-UP to organise the National Inclusive Sports Festival. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
MC Tagwaye declares interest in 2026 AMAC chairmanship election
By Emmanuel Oloniruha
Mr Obinna Simon, popularly known as MC Tagwaye, has officially declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the 2026 election on the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Simon disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting his commitment to transforming the local government and addressing long-standing issues.
He promised more inclusive, progressive and sustainable AMAC, if elected as the council’s next chairman.
“My vision for AMAC is one of progress, inclusivity and sustainable development.
“I am driven by a profound conviction that I can catalyse transformative changes in AMAC by championing causes that uplift marginalided communities and advocate for policies that tackle our most pressing challenges,” he said.
While recalling his background as an educator with over eight years of teaching experience, MC Tagwaye announced his plans to prioritise education in AMAC.
“The first thing I will do as chairman is declare a state of emergency in education.
“Our children deserve quality education that prepares them to compete nationally and globally,” he said.
While evaluating the current AMAC administration, MC Tagwaye said: “My rating for the current administration is very low.
“Over 70 per cent of residents in AMAC do not even know who the chairman is, which reflects a leadership absence from the community.
“I personally visited all the 12 wards of AMAC, and there is a stark picture of neglect and poor infrastructure.
“There are places where vehicles can’t even reach. The roads are terribly bad. In a community in Sauka, a school which my foundation visited, teachers and students often have to use neighbouring homes or even the bush as toilets.
“This is in the FCT, just on the way to the airport,” he said.
The chairmanship hopeful called on residents of the council area to support his aspiration, saying that they should work together for a brighter future.
“I ask for your support, your vote and your prayers. Together, we can make a difference,” he said.
He expressed deep satisfaction with SDP, describing the party’s support as “tremendous” and as one free from internal crises plaguing other political parties.
“I have no regret joining SDP. The way they have treated me and my aspirations has been extremely wonderful. I encourage a lot of people to come to SDP,” he said.
He criticised the current AMAC chairman’s recent defection to another party, describing it as a sign of lack of direction and commitment to the people.
“At my age, I should leave legacies. That is why I’m coming to bring new ideas, experience and education to the table,” he said.
MC Tagwaye’s Campaign Director-General, Malam Abubakar Bello, described the event as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward effective leadership and grassroots development.
Bello explained that Nigeria’s leadership had historically been centered around national figures like presidents and ministers, while local governance often remained neglected.
“Local governance in Nigeria, including AMAC, lacks essential services, while education is under-funded and poorly managed.
“Schools lack proper infrastructure, with children still sitting on bare floors, deprived of seats and learning materials.
“This stark reality underscores the urgent need for grassroots leadership that can bring tangible change from the ground up,” he said.
Bello urged Nigerians to support the new leadership, emphasising that Nigeria’s future depends on collective efforts, resource allocation and unwavering support for leaders who genuinely serve the people. (NAN)(www.nanannews.ng)
Edited by Yinusa Ishola/’Wale Sadeeq
South-West PDP congress returns Ajisafe, 21 other excos unopposed
By David Adeoye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South-West Congress, on Wednesday, returned Mr Kamorudeen Ajisafe as the South-West Zonal Chairman of the party.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the election took place during the zonal congress of the party held at the Theophilus Ogunwusi Hall, UCH, Ibadan.
The election, which produced the 22-member zonal executive, unopposed, also saw the emergence of Mr Muyiwa Obagunwa as Zonal Secretary, Mr Adeyemo Adetunji as Zonal Treasurer and Mr Yahaya Adeleke as Zonal Financial Secretary.
Among other elected zonal executives are: Benson Adegbenro – Organising Secretary, Mrs Bosede Adedibu – Zonal Women leader and Mr Shefiu Adesina – Auditor.
In his acceptance speech, Ajisafe, on behalf of the executives, pledged to move the party forward while soliciting for support from party leaders.
He assured all party members that the PDP would win more states in the zone under his chairmanship.
In his welcome address, the host and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, charged party members in the zone to remain united.
According to him, unity among everyone would enhance progress of the party.
Makinde stated that the success of the zonal election would be a reference point for the forthcoming national congress.
In his goodwill message, Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun, said the success of the election had confirmed that Southwest PDP remained one entity, while urging other PDP zones to emulate the zone.
Adeleke lauded the party members for their resilience and commitment to the party regardless of the crisis that had rocked it.
NAN also reports that Chief Olabode George and PDP candidate during 2023 governorship election in Ogun, Chief Ladi Adebutu, were among party chieftains that participated in the congress.
Former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Udom, supervised the conduct of the election, while representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) observed the conduct of the election. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Remi Koleoso/Bayo Sekoni
Kaduna assembly passes mental health department establishment bill
Akpabio warns MDAs on non-compliance with NASS resolutions
By Kingsley Okoye
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government, against non-compliance with Senate resolutions.
He said that compliance with legislative resolutions were not optional but binding on MDAs and other public institutions.
Akpabio stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the 2nd National Workshop organised by the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop had as it’s theme “Consolidating Strategies for Strengthening Legislative Compliance by MDAs.”
Akpabio, who was represented by Sen. Osita Ngwu, the Minority Whip of the Senate, said compliance was a constitutional obligation owed by all arms and levels of government to the people of Nigeria.
” let me state emphatically, compliance with legislative resolutions is not optional. It is absolutely fundamental.
“Our laws, policies, and oversight functions are meant to guide the execution of government programmes in a manner that ensures transparency, equity, and effectiveness.
“When departments and agencies fail to comply with legislative directives, they undermine not just the authority of the legislature but the collective will of the Nigerian people, whom we all represent,” he said.
The president of the Senate stressed the need for public institutions to work closely with the National Assembly to develop an egalitarian society.
“When public institutions ignore legislative resolutions, when compliance becomes selective, and when oversight is treated with disdain, the result is a breakdown in trust.
“As the President of the Senate, I give you full assurance that the National Assembly remains unwavering in its resolve to ensure that its resolutions are not only respected but also implemented.
“The days of impunity must give way to the reign of institutional discipline. However, enforcement must be accompanied by engagement,” he said.
Sen. Ede Dafinone, Deputy Chairman, Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, in his remarks decried the non-compliance of some MDAS to National Assembly resolutions.
“In recent times, we have witnessed several instances where MDAs and public institutions have either delayed or outrightly disregarded legislative resolutions passed by the Senate.
“These actions not only undermine the authority of the legislature but also weaken the very foundation of our democratic institutions,” he said.
He said the workshop was aimed at providing a platform for stakeholders to critically examine the root causes of non-compliance.
According to him, they include legal ambiguity, institutional rivalry, capacity gaps, and bureaucratic challenges.
He noted that the goal was to develop practical and enforceable solutions.
Dafinone urged MDAs to collectively work towards bridging the gap between legislation and execution for good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the benefit of the Nigerian people.
Mr Francis Usani, Director of Fraud Risk Assessment, Prevention and Control, who represented the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, commended the initiators of the workshop.
“This workshop couldn’t have come at a better time—when we are witnessing increased instances of laws, policies, rules, and regulations being observed more in the breach than in compliance,” he said
He emphasised that the legislature, by constitutional provision, is saddled with the responsibility of making laws for good governance and democracy.
He added that democracy can only be sustained where laws are made and obeyed.
“Compliance with resolutions made by the legislature is therefore critical to the sustenance of institutions. It is widely said that where there are no laws, there will be anarchy.
“And where laws are made but not complied with or implemented, there will also be anarchy,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Emergency rule: Reps inaugurates 21-member ad-hoc committee to oversee Rivers govt.
Committee
By Ikenna Osuoha
The House of Representatives on Tuesday inaugurated a 21-member ad-hoc committee to oversee the caretaker government in Rivers during the state of emergency.
Speaker of the House, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, said that the inauguration of the committee was in line with Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
While reaffirming the National Assembly’s commitment to transparent governance in Nigeria, Abbas urged the committee to be non-partisan and impartial.
“Today’s inauguration of the 21-member ad-hoc committee on Rivers State reaffirms our constitutional commitment to transparent governance.
“Empowered by Section 5 of the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation 2025 and pursuant to Section 11(4) of our Constitution, this committee has a clear and non-partisan mandate,” he said.
According to him, the committee is to monitor the implementation of federal directives and policies in Rivers, ensuring that the caretaker administration adhered to the law.
The speaker said that the sensitivity and gravity of the assignment could not be over-emphasised, describing it as a litmus test for the committee members’ commitment to democratic principles and constitutional governance.
“The importance of the assignment places a considerable burden on the chairman and all members, as every action taken will be subject to national scrutiny,” he said.
Abbas urged the committee members to conduct their oversight with highest level of impartiality and monitor every aspect of the caretaker administration in strict accordance with the constitution.
“Beyond mere oversight, your work must actively support efforts to restore lasting peace and re-establish a fully functioning democratic system in Rivers State.
“You are called upon to interface with federal agencies, security institutions, and any reconciliation initiatives that may be established, fostering trust among all stakeholders in the process,” he said.
The speaker emphasised that the national assembly’s intervention in Rivers was not an instrument of political vendetta but a constitutional necessity.
He explained that it was the collective duty of the legislature to safeguard peace, security and rule of law in the state.
Abbas said any time that any state house of assembly was unable to perform its functions by reason of the situation prevailing in that state, the national assembly could make laws for the peace, order and good government in such state.
While commending President Bola Tinubu for rising to the occasion in Rivers, in accordance with section 305 of the constitution, he said it was a display of responsible leadership.
The speaker charged the Sole Administrator, Retired Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas to be highly transparent in the discharge of his duties, saying that his government is temporary.
Responding, Chairman of the committee, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, thanked the speaker for rising to the occasion.
Ihonvbere, a professor and House Majority Leader, promised not to fail the national assembly and Nigerians at large in the discharge of their mandate.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that members of the committee include: Ali Isa, Deputy Chairman, Isiaka Ibrahim, Idris Wase, Aliyu Betara, Sada Soli, James Faleke, Igariwey Enwo, Shehu Rijau and Wole Oke.
Others are: Akarachi Amadi, Patrick Umoh, James Barka, Alex Egbona, Isa Anka, Amos Daniel, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Onuh Onyeche, Fatima Talba, Chris Nkwonta and bibake Enenimiete. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq
2027 Election: PDP Governors rule out joining coalition, merger
By David Adeoye
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum has declared that the party will not join or merge with any other political party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Chairman of the forum, Gov. Muhammed Bala of Bauchi State, stated this on Monday, at the end of its meeting, held in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.
Reading the group’s communique after the meeting, Bala said that the PDP governors resolved that the party would not join any coalition or merger.
He, however, said that PDP as a major opposition party would welcome any party, association or group that was willing to join it, with a view to wrestle power and enthrone good leadership in 2027.
Bala, who was flanked by other PDP governors when reading the communique, equally stated that the forum reaffirmed its position taken in Asaba on the issue of the national secretary of the party.
He said “that on the wake of the Supreme Court judgment the forum resolved to recommend the Publicity Secretary of the party to act as the national secretary.
“Pending the nomination and ratification of substantive national secretary from the South East Zone by NEC at its next meeting.”
The chairman further stated that the forum reasserted its collective determination to approach the Supreme Court to give a clear verdict on the interpretation of the provision of the law on the declaration of State of Emergency in any state of the federation.
“The forum, therefore, reiterates its solidarity with His Excellency, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, on the ordeal in which he and his people are being plunged into by the declaration of State of Emergency.
“And we reiterate our commitment to stand with him to the end,” he stated.
The forum also raised concern over alarming worsening security situation in some parts of the country, especially in Borno, Plateau, Katsina and Edo States.
Bala disclosed that the forum called for review and reordering of priorities and strategies of security agencies that would guaranty improved security across the country.
The forum commiserated with the people of Plateau over the loss of lives in the recent attack in the state.
The chairman of the forum further made it known that the NEC meeting of the party would hold on May 27, “having resolved with the National Working Committee and other relevant organs of the party.”
He explained that zoning committees would be constituted during the May 27 meeting, with a view to addressing all issues relating to running of the party offices.
The chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum said that the convention of the party would be held on Aug 20, “precisely on the 20th, 29th and 30th in the ancient city of Kano.
The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that present at the meeting were Governors Peter Mbah (Enugu); Agbu Kefas (Taraba); Dauda Lawal (Zamfara); Ademola Adeleke (Osun); Seyi Makinde (Oyo); Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa) and Douye Diri (Bayelsa).
Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) were represented by their deputies, Monday Onyeme and Sen. Akon Eyakenyi respectively. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Bayo Sekoni