A Ugandan military helicopter deployed as part of the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia crashed at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Wednesday, claiming the lives of five passengers, according to Ugandan military spokesperson Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye.
The helicopter, carrying eight people, crashed just moments before landing. Three of the occupants survived, but suffered severe injuries and burns, Kulayigye confirmed.
The crash impact triggered the detonation of onboard munitions, which destroyed nearby structures and injured three civilians, he added.
In a statement, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) said search and rescue efforts were ongoing to recover all passengers and crew.
Eyewitness Farah Abdulle, who works at the airport, described the scene:
“We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter.”
Photos from the scene showed thick smoke rising near the airport, consistent with the aftermath of the explosion.
Earlier reports from Somalia’s state-run SONNA confirmed that the helicopter had been engulfed in flames after crashing.
The helicopter was part of AUSSOM’s ongoing support mission in Somalia. The peacekeeping force includes over 11,000 personnel, working in collaboration with Somalia’s military to combat the al-Shabaab insurgency, an al-Qaeda-affiliated group that has been waging a violent campaign for nearly two decades to overthrow Somalia’s internationally recognized government and impose a harsh version of Sharia law.
At least 15 residents of Kwallajiya village in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State were killed in a brutal attack by suspected members of the Lakurawa terrorist group on Wednesday afternoon. The assault, which left several others injured, has heightened fears of escalating violence in Nigeria’s northwest, where the extremist group has intensified its operations.
The gunmen, believed to be led by a notorious bandit known as Charambe, stormed the village in the early hours, opening fire on unsuspecting residents. Armed with sophisticated weaponry, the attackers shot sporadically, targeting civilians and causing widespread panic.
The victims were buried that evening in accordance with Islamic rites, as confirmed by Isa Bashir Kalanjeni, the Executive Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Council, who led a delegation to the village for the mass burial.
Community members expressed deep concern over the persistent violence, alleging that some locals may be collaborating with the terrorists, providing insider information that facilitates such attacks.
“We believe these attacks are sometimes facilitated by insider information. It is crucial for residents to work closely with security forces,” a local source stated.
Efforts to reach the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters and the Sokoto Police Command for official comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.
The attack is believed to be a reprisal for the recent killing of three Lakurawa members. The group, suspected to have ties to extremist factions, has been terrorizing Sokoto and neighboring Kebbi States, targeting agrarian communities during the farming season.
This incident follows a series of violent assaults by the group, including an explosion in Gwabro village on June 9 that killed six people and injured three others, and an ambush in Hurumi Forest on May 5 that claimed 13 hunters.
The Lakurawa group, which emerged in the late 2010s as herdsmen offering protection to locals against bandits, has since turned to extremism, attempting to impose Islamic law and engaging in kidnappings, extortion, and targeted killings.
Security analysts warn that their growing use of improvised explosive devices and advanced weaponry poses a significant threat, potentially surpassing other extremist groups if left unchecked.
“The behaviour at which the Lakurawa is operating is going to be more dangerous for Nigeria,” a security expert noted.
In response, troops from Operation Fansan Yanma, alongside police tactical teams and community guards, have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, combing bush paths and border routes between Nigeria and Niger Republic.
The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has claimed progress in dismantling Lakurawa camps in Sokoto and Kebbi, but the latest attack underscores the challenges in curbing the group’s influence.
The assault has reignited calls for stronger counterterrorism measures and community cooperation to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and lack of basic amenities, which make rural areas vulnerable to extremist recruitment. Residents of Kwallajiya and surrounding communities are living in fear, with many urging security agencies to bolster their presence to prevent further bloodshed.
Nigeria grapples with this emerging threat, the Lakurawa’s reign of terror continues to disrupt lives, displace families, and threaten food security in the region.
The federal and state governments face mounting pressure to devise effective strategies to neutralize the group and restore peace to Sokoto’s border communities.
In a move to reshape Nigeria’s federal structure, the House of Representatives is reviewing proposals to create 46 new states and 117 additional local government areas (LGAs), sparking widespread debate about the country’s governance framework.
The ambitious constitutional review, aimed at addressing long-standing demands for restructuring, has drawn both support and skepticism as lawmakers grapple with its implications for national unity, resource allocation, and administrative efficiency.
The proposals, currently under consideration by the House Committee on Constitution Review, seek to address regional agitations for greater representation and decentralization.
Among the key suggestions is the creation of 46 new states, which would increase Nigeria’s total from 36 to 82.
Notable proposals include new states such as Lagoon State, Oke-Ogun State, and Ijebu State in the southwest; Anioma State in the southeast; and Tiga State in the northwest. These new states aim to address demands for equitable representation, particularly from regions that feel marginalized under the current geopolitical structure.
Additionally, the plan includes the establishment of 117 new local government areas, bringing the total to 891.
This expansion is intended to enhance grassroots governance and bring administration closer to the people, particularly in rural areas where access to government services remains limited.
Other proposals under review include the creation of new local governments in existing states, such as 13 in Lagos, eight in Katsina, and four in Imo, among others.
The constitutional review also encompasses broader reforms, including the establishment of state police to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, such as banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Proponents argue that state police would enable more localized and responsive law enforcement, reducing the burden on federal forces.
Another significant proposal is the introduction of a unicameral legislature to streamline governance and cut costs, alongside calls for special seats for women in the National Assembly to promote gender inclusion.
Lawmakers and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the proposals. Supporters, including some regional advocacy groups, view the creation of new states and LGAs as a step toward addressing historical imbalances and fostering development in underserved areas.
“This is a chance to correct structural injustices and ensure every region has a voice,” a lawmaker from the southeast stated during a public hearing.
However, critics argue that the expansion could strain Nigeria’s already stretched fiscal resources, exacerbate ethnic tensions, and create administrative redundancies.
“Adding more states without a clear economic plan is a recipe for inefficiency,” a political analyst cautioned.
The review process, which began earlier this year, is part of the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to amend the 1999 Constitution to reflect Nigeria’s evolving needs.
The House Committee on Constitution Review has been engaging stakeholders through public hearings and consultations across the six geopolitical zones. The committee is expected to submit its recommendations to the full House by mid-2026, with any approved amendments requiring a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly and the concurrence of at least 24 state assemblies.
Economic concerns loom large over the proposals, as Nigeria faces challenges such as inflation, a declining naira, and dependence on oil revenue.
Critics question how the government will fund new administrative structures amid these fiscal pressures. Supporters counter that decentralization could stimulate local economies by empowering states and LGAs to harness their resources more effectively.
While the proposals promise greater inclusivity and local governance, their success will depend on careful planning, broad consensus, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of regional discontent.
For now, the House of Representatives remains at the center of a historic effort to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, with far-reaching implications for the nation’s future.
Staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have called off their three-day protest, which began on June 28, 2025, over unpaid salaries, striking teachers, and delayed wage awards. The workers, under the aegis of the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC), announced the suspension on June 30, 2025, but issued a stern 21-day ultimatum to the FCT authorities to address their grievances or face renewed industrial action. The protest, which disrupted activities across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was sparked by months of unpaid salaries for some FCTA workers, the ongoing strike by primary school teachers, and the non-implementation of wage awards approved by the federal government. The workers also demanded the immediate removal of the Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, accusing the leadership of mismanagement and failure to address critical welfare issues. JUAC President, Comrade Matilukuro Oluwakorede, addressed a press conference in Abuja on June 30, stating, “We have suspended the protest to allow for dialogue, but the government must act swiftly. Our members are suffering, and the situation is untenable. If our demands are not met within 21 days, we will resume industrial action, and it will be more intense.” The workers’ demands include the immediate payment of all outstanding salaries, the resolution of the teachers’ strike, and the implementation of the approved wage awards. Additionally, they called for reforms in the FCT Civil Service Commission to ensure transparency and accountability in its operations. The ultimatum has put pressure on FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the commission’s leadership to address the issues promptly. The protest saw significant participation from FCTA staff across various departments, with demonstrators blocking key access roads to the FCTA Secretariat and staging peaceful marches in the capital city. The action drew attention to the plight of civil servants, particularly teachers, who have been on strike for weeks, disrupting primary education in the FCT. Residents of Abuja have expressed mixed reactions to the situation. While some sympathize with the workers’ plight, others have raised concerns about the impact of the teachers’ strike on students and the broader implications of the protest on administrative services in the FCT. An FCTA spokesperson, in response to the ultimatum, assured that the government is engaging with the unions to resolve the issues. “The FCT Administration is committed to addressing the concerns of its workers. We are in discussions with relevant stakeholders to ensure a lasting solution,” the spokesperson said. As the 21-day ultimatum counts down, all eyes are on the FCT Administration to see how it will navigate this crisis. Failure to meet the workers’ demands could lead to significant disruptions in the Federal Capital Territory, further straining relations between the government and its workforce.
Spain striker Esther González scored twice in the first half as her side powered to a 5-0 win over Portugal at the Women’s Euros that was overshadowed by the deaths of Portugal international Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car accident earlier on Thursday.
On an emotional night that began with a minute’s silence for the brothers, Portugal went behind almost immediately, Olga Carmona putting the ball over the top for Gonzalez to run on to and score in the second minute.
Mariona Caldentey did superbly to pull the ball across the box for Vicky López to score the second goal five minutes later.
The Portuguese managed to steady the ship but they were rocked again four minutes before the break when Alexia Putellas took down another great pass from Caldentey on her chest before calmly cutting inside and firing home.
“I highlight our mindset, how we came out to play,” Putellas said. “We were really eager to get started but it’s only the first match.”
There was more misery to come for Portugal before halftime as Gonzalez netted her second two minutes later, scoring from close range after Claudia Pina’s cross came back off the far post.
The Spaniards were delighted to be able to bring in Aitana Bonmatí from the bench following her recent brush with viral meningitis, and the playmaker wasted no time getting into the thick of things, setting up a chance for Cristina Martín-Prieto.
“Aitana is a very important player for us. We are delighted that she is back and has overcome her illness. It is a joy,” Putellas said.
Portugal showed more composure in the second half but they were no match for Spain’s power, precision and technique and, though they held Spain at bay for most of the second half, Martin-Prieto scored with a superb late header to complete the rout.
“We conceded early goals and the team became anxious and unsettled,” said Portugal forward Diana Silva. “We couldn’t get hold of the ball and then it’s harder to chase the result. We were much better in the second half, more united. We didn’t allow Spain so much space to get in.
“We believe until the end, our goal is to earn points until the end and everything is still up for grabs.”
Italy Edge Belgium in Tight Contest to Secure First Euro Win Since 2017
With Italy having defeated Belgium 1-0 earlier in the evening, Spain top the group with the Italians second. Spain take on the Belgians in their next game, while Portugal face Italy.
Italy won their first match in the Women’s European Championship since 2017 as Arianna Caruso struck just before the break to give them a 1-0 victory over Belgium in their Group B opener on Thursday.
Lucia Di Guglielmo’s quick pass from the right found Caruso unguarded just outside the box and the Bayern Munich midfielder calmly curled a right-footed shot away from keeper Lisa Lichtfus to find the net at the near post.
“It was what we wanted, the first match is always complicated,” coach Andrea Soncin told RAI after Italy made their first winning start in the tournament since 2009. “We can definitely improve and we must if we want to continue to grow, but I am happy with the attitude we showed.”
Player of the match Caruso probed the Belgian defence with multiple attempts in the first 20 minutes, after the match began with a minute’s silence following the death of Portuguese national men’s team striker Diogo Jota in a car accident.
Belgium had more of the ball in the first half and made 10 attempts, two more than Italy, but failed to take the lead when Mariam Toloba shot wide in the 26th minute and Tessa Wullaert missed the target from close range four minutes before Caruso’s goal.
Lichtfus’s quick reflexes saved Cristiana Girelli’s close range back-flick in the 64th minute to keep Belgium in the game, but the 2022 quarter-finalists were unable to find an equaliser as Italy made their first winning start in the tournament since 2009.
Italy will continue their campaign against Portugal on Monday, while Belgium play Nations League winners Spain.
Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has passed away at the age of 61. He died in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a prolonged illness that had kept him out of the public eye for several years.
Celebrated as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, Rufai enjoyed an illustrious career that spanned two decades, playing for local clubs like Stationery Stores as well as European sides such as Go Ahead Eagles, Farense, and Deportivo La Coruña.
He made 65 appearances for the Nigerian national team, featured in two FIFA World Cups, and was a key figure in the Super Eagles’ historic 1994 AFCON triumph. Though his family is yet to release an official statement, his former teammate Waidi Akanni confirmed the sad news.
Who Was Peter Rufai?
Peter Rufai was a retired Nigerian goalkeeper, widely regarded as one of the finest in the nation’s football history. Fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’, he stood out for his composure, leadership, and shot-stopping ability, often compared to later stars like Vincent Enyeama. He represented clubs across Africa and Europe, building a respected career that left a lasting legacy in Nigerian sports.
Early Life of Legendary Super Eagles Goalkeeper
Peter Rufai was born on August 24, 1963, in Oshodi, Lagos State, into a royal family from the Idimu area. Raised in a polygamous household, he experienced a relatively privileged upbringing more comfortable than what was typical for many children of his era.
Following the death of his father in early 1998, his club at the time, Deportivo La Coruña, granted him leave to return home and engage in succession discussions. However, Rufai chose to forgo the traditional throne, reaffirming his deep commitment to football.
He was married to Mikaila Rufai, and their union is blessed with four children.
Rufai’s Football Career
Peter Rufai began his football journey with Stationery Stores FC and Femo Scorpions, where his exceptional goalkeeping skills quickly drew attention.
After making his mark locally, he took his first step onto the international stage in 1986, signing with AS Dragons FC de l’Ouémé in the Benin Republic. Although specific details of his time at the club remain limited, his performances there were impressive enough to spark interest from European scouts, paving the way for the next chapter of his career abroad.
Career In Europe
Following an impressive season with AS Dragons, Peter Rufai caught the attention of European clubs and signed with Belgian side KSC Lokeren in the summer of 1987. He spent four solid years there before moving to KSK Beveren in 1991, where he played for another two seasons.
In the 1993/94 campaign, Rufai joined Dutch club Go Ahead Eagles, making 12 appearances as the team finished 12th in the Eredivisie. The following year, he moved to Portugal to play for SC Farense, where his influence was pivotal helping the club qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time in its history. His standout performances earned him a move to Hércules CF in Spain in 1997, but limited opportunities and the team’s relegation made it a challenging stint.
In the summer of 1998, Rufai signed with Deportivo La Coruña as a backup goalkeeper. He featured in just nine matches over two seasons, contributing mostly as a squad player. As his career neared its end, he returned to Portugal in 1999 to join Gil Vicente, making a single appearance before retiring in 2000.
Three years after his retirement, Rufai settled in Spain, where he channeled his passion into mentoring young talents by establishing a goalkeeping school.
International Career
The highly respected goalkeeper earned 65 caps for Nigeria during his international career. As the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper, Rufai featured in both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup tournaments, solidifying his place in Nigerian football history.
He was also between the sticks when Nigeria clinched their second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in Tunisia in 1994. In a memorable moment on July 24, 1993, Rufai joined the ranks of goalkeepers who’ve scored, confidently converting a penalty in a 6-0 victory over Ethiopia during an AFCON qualifier. He brought his international journey to a close in 2000, capping off a distinguished 20-year football career.
Football Academy
Driven by a passion to give back, Rufai established Staruf Football Academy in Lagos on January 1, 2010. The academy is dedicated to nurturing young Nigerian football talents, providing professional training and development. Located at 1 Sowande Street, Off Rev Emma Adubifa, Omole Phase 2, Lagos, the academy stands as a testament to his enduring love for the game.
The Julius Abure faction of the Labour Party has set a 48-hour deadline for Peter Obi, the party’s former presidential candidate, to formally quit the party.
On Thursday in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, told journalists that the ultimatum came as a result of Obi’s participation in an ongoing coalition among prominent opposition leaders.
Ifoh stated that the party is not interested in joining any coalition and characterized the coalition members as power-hungry individuals focused on their own agendas instead of serving the people.
He described the frequently repeated slogan ‘A New Nigeria is Possible’ as misleading, emphasizing that it cannot be realized without leaders who are selfless.
He added that the coalition consists of those who have mismanaged Nigeria over the years, insisting that desperate politicians are incapable of creating a new Nigeria.
“We are aware of several nocturnal meetings between Obi and some of our members, lobbying them to join him in his new party. We’re also aware that a number of them have refused to defect with him.
“Labour Party has consistently said it is not part of the coalition and, therefore, any of our members who is part of the coalition is given within 48 hours to formally resign his membership of the party.
“Labour Party is not available for people with dual agendas, people with deceptive persona. The party will not avail itself to individuals who have one leg in one party and another leg elsewhere.
“Nearly 70 per cent of the Nigerian population are youths; the new Nigeria that the youth are dreaming of is not what can be realised from what we are seeing in the coalition,” he stated.
Mr. Ifoh characterized the members of the coalition as opportunistic politicians focused solely on repositioning themselves within the power circle and determined to cling to their hold on power.
“The new Nigeria of our dream can only be realised through Labour Party and the party is willing to lead Nigerians along that trajectory.
“I, therefore, urge all members of the party to remain loyal and keep the party structure intact ahead of future elections,” he said.
Several individuals have been hospitalised following the collapse of a building overnight, along Adeniji Adele Road at Isale Eko on Lagos Island.
The incident, which happened in the early hours of Thursday, prompted an emergency response from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, the Nigerian Police, and other relevant rescue agencies.
Updates shared by LASTMA on its verified X handle revealed that those trapped beneath the rubble were rescued and promptly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
“There is a report of an overnight collapsed building along Adeniji Adele road, at Isale Eko. LASTMA personnel, other emergency responders and Men of Nigerian Police Force are all onground. Traffic flow is currently not affected along the corridor as our personnel are firmly at the location for traffic monitoring. Victims rescued from the building have been taken to the hospital for treatment,” LASTMA said.
While the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, officials are still at the scene carrying out search and rescue operations.
LASTMA also announced that traffic is being redirected to facilitate movement around the affected area.
“Our officials have diverted traffic from Zenith back through Oba’s Palace to make use of Enu Owa to their various destinations,” the agency added.
The cause of the collapse has yet to be officially stated, but structural failures and aging buildings are common concerns in the area.
The building site remains cordoned off, and emergency responders continue operations as of the time of filing this report.
The official cause of the collapse has not been disclosed, though structural defects and aging buildings are frequent issues in the area.
The site remains sealed off, with emergency personnel still carrying out operations at the time of this report.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, threatening a nationwide strike that could cripple the country’s healthcare system if longstanding demands regarding salaries, allowances, and welfare are not addressed.
The ultimatum, announced on July 2, 2025, during a press conference in Abuja, sets a deadline of July 23, 2025, for the government to act or face widespread industrial action by medical and dental practitioners.
NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, expressed deep frustration with a recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on June 27, 2025, which purportedly addressed adjustments to allowances under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
Audu described the circular (SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646) as “grossly inadequate, misleading, and a flagrant violation” of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) signed in 2001, 2009, 2014, and 2021.
He accused the NSIWC of disregarding salary structure tables submitted by the NMA, further deepening tensions among doctors who continue to serve despite challenging conditions.
“This circular undermines the spirit and letter of agreements painstakingly reached with the government,” Audu stated.
The NMA’s demands are extensive, reflecting years of unresolved grievances. Key among them is the immediate withdrawal of the June 27 circular and its replacement with one that adheres to prior CBAs.
The association is also calling for the correction of salary adjustments to align with agreements, particularly regarding call duty allowances, and the payment of all accrued backlogs, including 25/35% CONMESS arrears, clinical duty, and accoutrement allowances.
Additionally, the NMA demands the immediate release of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) and its review to reflect current economic realities, as well as the resumption of overdue CBA negotiations.
Other demands include the implementation of scarce skills, specialist, and excess workload allowances for doctors, comprehensive health insurance for medical practitioners, and the enforcement of CONMESS across all federal and state ministries to curb internal brain drain.
The NMA also seeks the reversal of appointments of non-medical professionals as consultants in hospitals, citing risks to patient safety, and the implementation of a revised retirement age for doctors.
“We are committed to the wellbeing of Nigerians, but our members deserve fair treatment and timely compensation,” Audu emphasized, appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the public to intervene.
The ultimatum comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s healthcare system, already strained by repeated strikes, brain drain, and inadequate infrastructure.
Posts on X reflect public anxiety, with some users warning of a looming healthcare crisis if the government fails to act.
One post noted, “Hours after Tinubu announced deploying doctors to Saint Lucia, the NMA issues a 21-day strike notice over salary adjustments,” highlighting the irony of international commitments amid domestic unrest.
The NMA stressed its commitment to dialogue, noting repeated engagements with the Federal Ministry of Health and other agencies.
However, Audu warned, “We expect our demands to be addressed within the next 21 days to avert disruption in health services.”
Failure to comply could lead to a total shutdown of public hospitals, exacerbating challenges for patients and adding pressure to an already overburdened system.
As the deadline approaches, stakeholders are urging swift government action to prevent a repeat of past strikes that have led to increased morbidity, postponed surgeries, and loss of public confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
A strong coalition of Nigeria’s opposition leaders has united under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to confront the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
Unveiled on July 2, 2025, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, the coalition seeks to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accused of economic turmoil, widespread insecurity, and eroding democratic principles.
Spearheaded by heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai, the ADC coalition has ignited discussions about its ability to transform Nigeria’s political landscape.
Formation of the ADC Coalition
The ADC coalition emerged from months of negotiations among opposition leaders frustrated by the APC’s governance and the fragmentation of parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP).
Initially, the coalition explored registering a new party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), but faced delays with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which some, including Nasir El-Rufai, alleged was influenced by the APC.
After unsuccessful talks with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the coalition adopted the ADC, an existing party with a reformist history, on July 1, 2025, following a late-night meeting in Abuja.
The coalition draws inspiration from the APC’s 2013 merger, aiming to unite diverse political forces to oust Tinubu in 2027.
Key Figures in the ADC Coalition and Their Roles
The ADC coalition comprises political heavyweights from the PDP, LP, APC, and civil society, each bringing significant influence.
David Mark (Interim National Chairman)
A three-time Senate President (2007–2015) and former PDP stalwart, Mark defected to lead the ADC. His role is to unify the coalition and articulate its vision of restoring democracy against what he calls the APC’s “creeping civilian dictatorship.” His North Central influence, especially in Benue, and legislative experience make him a stabilizing force, though his long PDP tenure may invite skepticism.
Rauf Aregbesola (Interim National Secretary)
Former Osun State Governor (2010–2018) and ex-Minister of Interior (2019–2023), Aregbesola left the APC to oversee the ADC’s organizational restructuring. He aims to build a party rooted in social justice and internal democracy, drawing on his South West base and mobilization skills. His past governance record, however, may face scrutiny.
Bolaji Abdullahi (Interim National Publicity Secretary)
A former Minister of Youth and Sports and PDP chieftain, Abdullahi leverages his media expertise to shape the coalition’s narrative. His role is critical for appealing to youth and countering APC propaganda, though he must overcome perceptions of being a recycled politician.
Atiku Abubakar (Key Coalition Leader)
Former Vice President (1999–2007) and PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku is a central figure mobilizing northern support. His call for PDP members to join the ADC reflects his strategic pivot, but his age (81 by 2027) and multiple presidential losses raise electability concerns.
Peter Obi (Key Coalition Leader)
The LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Obi brings a youth-driven “Obidient” movement and South East/South South support. His reformist image and reported one-term proposal enhance his role as a unifier, though tensions with Atiku over leadership could pose challenges.
Nasir El-Rufai (Key Coalition Leader)
Former Kaduna State Governor (2015–2023), El-Rufai defected from the APC via the SDP. He drives northern mobilization and coalition negotiations, but controversies, such as his stance on the Muslim-Muslim ticket, may polarize voters.
Rotimi Amaechi (Key Coalition Leader)
Former Rivers State Governor (2007–2015) and ex-Minister of Transportation (2015–2022), Amaechi resigned from the APC on July 1, 2025, citing Nigeria’s economic collapse. His South South influence strengthens the coalition, though past rivalries with Atiku could complicate unity.
Other Figures : Former governors like Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto), Gabriel Suswam (Benue), and Liyel Imoke (Cross River), alongside ex-APC National Chairman John Odigie-Oyegun and former ministers like Abubakar Malami (Justice) and Solomon Dalung (Youth and Sports). Civil society figures like Dele Momodu and youth leaders like Kenneth Okonkwo broaden the coalition’s appeal.
Political Weight : The coalition’s leaders command significant influence, with Atiku and Obi’s 13 million combined 2023 votes, regional strongholds, and high-profile defections from the APC and PDP. However, critics like Dumebi Kachikwu label them “recycled politicians,” risking public skepticism about their reformist credentials.
Electoral past performance of ADC Coalition Leaders
The coalition’s key figures bring substantial electoral experience from their previous parties, particularly in the 2023 elections, which shapes their potential impact in 2027.
• Atiku Abubakar (PDP): As the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku secured 6,984,520 votes (29.07% of the total), finishing second to the APC’s Bola Tinubu (8.7 million). His strong performance in the North East and North West, including wins in states like Adamawa and Taraba, underscores his national appeal. However, his vote share was diluted by Peter Obi’s LP surge, highlighting the cost of opposition fragmentation.
• Peter Obi (LP): Running as the LP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Obi polled 6,101,533 votes (25.40%), placing third and flipping key areas like Lagos, Abuja, and the South East. His youth-driven “Obidient” movement disrupted the APC-PDP dominance, showcasing his ability to mobilize urban and southern voters. His performance signals strong potential for 2027, especially among younger demographics.
• Nasir El-Rufai (APC): As Kaduna State Governor in 2023, El-Rufai delivered significant votes for the APC’s Tinubu, who won Kaduna with 399,293 votes (39.91%). El-Rufai’s influence in the North West, a key electoral battleground, remains a major asset, though his defection may alienate some APC loyalists.
• Rotimi Amaechi (APC): Amaechi, a key APC figure in 2023, helped deliver votes in Rivers State, where Tinubu secured 231,591 votes (44.23%). His organizational skills and South South base are critical, but his exit from the APC reflects tensions with Tinubu, potentially bringing Rivers voters to the ADC.
• Aminu Tambuwal (PDP): As Sokoto State Governor in 2023, Tambuwal supported Atiku’s PDP campaign, which won Sokoto with 288,679 votes (49.29%). His influence in the North West strengthens the coalition, though his PDP loyalty may create tensions.
• Gabriel Suswam (PDP): A former Benue State Governor, Suswam ran for the Senate in 2023 under the PDP but lost to the APC’s Titus Zam in Benue North East. The PDP still polled strongly in Benue, with Atiku securing 308,372 votes (44.04%). Suswam’s regional clout remains valuable despite his personal defeat.
• Rauf Aregbesola (APC): As a former Osun State Governor and APC chieftain, Aregbesola contributed to Tinubu’s 2023 victory in Osun, where the APC won with 375,027 votes (49.87%). His defection to the ADC could sway South West voters disillusioned with the APC.
• David Mark (PDP): Though not a candidate in 2023, Mark’s influence as a PDP elder helped Atiku secure strong votes in Benue. His leadership in the Senate and regional network make him a key mobilizer, though his lack of recent electoral contests limits direct data.
The coalition’s leaders collectively delivered over 13 million votes in 2023, primarily through Atiku and Obi, with significant contributions in states like Kaduna, Rivers, Sokoto, and Benue. Their regional influence and voter mobilization skills are a major strength, but the 2023 election’s fragmentation cost them victory. The ADC coalition aims to consolidate these votes, leveraging the leaders’ proven electoral bases.
Chances of Defeating the APC in 2027 election
The ADC coalition’s prospects of unseating the APC in 2027 hinge on the electoral clout and regional influence of its key figures—Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, and Aminu Tambuwal—while navigating significant challenges.
Their combined 13 million votes from 2023 (Atiku’s 6.9 million via PDP, Obi’s 6.1 million via LP) provide a strong foundation to unify the opposition vote, which was fragmented in the last election.
Atiku’s northern strongholds, Obi’s youth-driven South East/South South base, El-Rufai and Tambuwal’s North West influence, Amaechi’s South South clout, Mark’s North Central network, and Aregbesola’s South West mobilization offer regional balance to challenge the APC’s dominance.
Public discontent with Tinubu’s policies—hyperinflation (naira falling from N460 to N1,580, per Amaechi) and insecurity—bolsters their narrative, as Mark’s “civilian dictatorship” critique resonates with voters facing economic hardship.
However, internal rivalries among Atiku, Obi, and Amaechi over the presidential candidacy risk fracturing unity, with analyst Okey Ikechukwu warning that competing ambitions could derail the coalition.
Social media reactions, on X suggests Atiku’s age (81 by 2027) may necessitate ceding to Obi’s youth appeal.
The coalition’s lack of a clear policy agenda, as Ikechukwu notes, and Dumebi Kachikwu’s criticism of “recycled politicians” could undermine voter trust.
The ADC’s weak grassroots structures, compared to the APC’s robust networks, limit mobilization, while the PDP’s threat to sanction defectors (per Umar Damagum) risks splitting the opposition.
The APC’s alleged control of INEC and state resources, coupled with dismissive rhetoric from spokespersons like Daniel Bwala, poses a formidable barrier.
Analytically, the coalition’s success depends on selecting a unified candidate—likely Obi—articulating a compelling policy vision, and building grassroots networks to leverage public discontent and counter the APC’s entrenched power.
Without these, the coalition may struggle to translate its leaders’ electoral weight into victory.
The ADC coalition, unveiled on July 2, 2025, unites Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Nasir El-Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, David Mark, and Rauf Aregbesola to challenge the APC in 2027.
Leveraging their 13 million 2023 votes and regional influence, the coalition has a viable chance to unseat the APC by unifying opposition forces and capitalizing on public discontent.
However, internal rivalries, a vague policy agenda, and weak grassroots structures threaten its prospects.
It’s success hinges on a unified candidate, a clear vision, and robust mobilization to counter the APC’s dominance.
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