Nsukka Coalition Raises Alarm Over ‘Candidate Imposition’, Vows to Defend Voters’ Will

By Jamila Muhammad

A coalition of civil society organisations under the Nsukka Democratic Movement (NDM) has cautioned political actors against attempts to manipulate electoral outcomes in Enugu North Senatorial District, warning that any effort to impose candidates could undermine democratic integrity ahead of forthcoming elections.

In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Comrade James Ezema, the group said recent developments in the political space suggest a growing trend of behind-the-scenes arrangements aimed at predetermining candidates.

According to the coalition, the stakes extend beyond routine contests, stressing that the credibility of democracy in the Nsukka zone is on the line.

“What is at stake is not merely the outcome of upcoming elections, but the very soul of democracy in Nsukka zone,” the statement read.

The group expressed concern over what it described as a deliberate pattern of political interference, warning that elections must remain open, competitive and reflective of the people’s choices rather than decisions taken in private.

“Elections are meant to be competitive, participatory, and reflective of the people’s will, not ceremonial endorsements of decisions concluded in private rooms,” it added.

The NDM maintained that candidates who emerge through non-transparent processes would struggle with legitimacy, regardless of official results declared.

It also criticised what it termed the persistence of “political feudalism,” arguing that influence or proximity to power should not determine electoral outcomes.

“Nsukka is not a political estate to be inherited or allocated. It is a politically conscious society with a strong tradition of civic awareness,” the group stated.

The coalition further alleged that intimidation and subtle coercion are increasingly shaping the political environment, warning that such tactics could erode public confidence in the electoral process.

“Reports of intimidation and coercive pressure create a climate of fear that is fundamentally incompatible with free and fair elections,” the statement noted.

While addressing the current administration led by Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the group described any approach perceived as excluding key constituencies as politically risky, noting that voter alienation could have electoral consequences.

“Political legitimacy is earned through inclusion, performance and respect, not enforced through pressure,” it said.

The coalition also referenced past voting patterns in the zone, arguing that Nsukka voters have demonstrated independence and cannot be taken for granted in future elections.

It raised concerns about what it called a mismatch between political loyalty and development, citing persistent gaps in infrastructure, economic opportunities and social services across the district.

“Sustained political support has not translated into commensurate development. This contradiction is no longer acceptable,” the group said.

The NDM extended its warning to opposition parties, including actors within the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging them to avoid similar undemocratic practices and instead engage voters through credible ideas and grassroots mobilisation.

Looking ahead, the coalition warned that the 2027 elections could mark a turning point if current trends persist.

“2027 will not be business as usual. It will be a defining moment with far-reaching consequences,” it cautioned.

The group called on stakeholders—including political parties, security agencies and electoral bodies to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, insisting that safeguarding democracy is a shared responsibility.

“The people of Enugu North Senatorial District will determine their political future—not political elites or coercive structures,” the statement concluded.

Yobe 2027: Musa-Tumsah Turns Down SDP Ticket, Reaffirms Loyalty to APC

By Ibrahim Adamu,  Damaturu

A governorship hopeful of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State, Kashim Musa-Tumsah, has dismissed an offer by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to fly its flag in the next election, insisting he remains committed to pursuing his ambition within the APC.

Addressing journalists in Damaturu on Friday, Musa-Tumsah said he had no intention of leaving the ruling party despite overtures from opposition groups, including a public invitation from the SDP to take up its governorship ticket.

The SDP had recently announced its readiness to hand Musa-Tumsah an automatic ticket if he agreed to defect. The party’s state chairman, Alhaji Abba Bature, had described the APC aspirant as a suitable candidate, citing his experience and integrity as qualities needed to reposition Yobe State.

But Musa-Tumsah made it clear that his political future remains tied to the APC.

“I have received approaches from several political parties, most of them privately. The SDP only chose to make theirs public,” he said. “However, I have not considered any of these offers. My focus is firmly on contesting under the APC, and I intend to see that through.”

The aspirant also expressed optimism about the internal processes of his party, saying he trusts the APC to conduct a credible and transparent primary election.

“From what I have observed, there is no indication that the primaries will not be free and fair,” he said. “The party has yet to announce the specific format, so people should ignore speculation suggesting otherwise.”

Musa-Tumsah, who arrived in Damaturu from Kano to a rousing reception by supporters, attributed his growing popularity to what he described as a strong public desire for a new direction in the state.

He pledged to provide accountable leadership and improve governance if elected.

“By the grace of Allah, better days lie ahead,” he told supporters. “We must remain united and committed as we work together to move Yobe forward.”

APC Stakeholders Back Goje’s 2027 Senate Return, Rally Behind Tinubu

By Auwal Ahmad Umar 

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe Central Senatorial District have thrown their weight behind the return of Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje to the Senate in 2027, citing his experience and track record in public service.

The endorsement, which cuts across Akko and Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Areas, also included support for the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The show of support gathered momentum earlier this month when residents of Yamaltu/Deba, in large numbers, publicly declared their backing for the former governor’s return to the National Assembly. Speaking on behalf of the 11 wards in the area, Dr. Newton Moses said the people were united in their decision.

“We have carefully assessed his contributions and believe he still has much to offer. Our people are firmly behind his return in 2027,” he said.

The position was reinforced on Tuesday when APC leaders and stakeholders from Akko Local Government Area held a meeting in Gombe, where they aligned with their Yamaltu/Deba counterparts and reaffirmed their support for Senator Goje’s continued representation.

The meeting, described as strategic, followed consultations triggered by recent political engagements within the state, including interactions between local leaders and Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Prof. Mustapha Babawuro Yahaya of the Federal University Kashere said the endorsement reflected the broader sentiment among constituents.

“Democracy thrives on the will of the people and credible leadership. There is no constitutional barrier to legislative continuity, and where a representative has demonstrated competence, the electorate has every right to retain such leadership,” he said.

He added that Senator Goje’s years in public office had translated into “tangible development, effective advocacy, and strong representation” for the district.

According to him, there is widespread grassroots support for the lawmaker across Akko and the wider Gombe Central zone.

“This is not just political rhetoric. The support is visible and consistent. People believe in his capacity to deliver,” he said.

The stakeholders also stressed the importance of experience in legislative work, arguing that continuity in the National Assembly enhances effectiveness.

“Law-making requires institutional knowledge and established networks. Senator Goje’s seniority places him in a position to attract federal projects and defend the interests of the constituency more effectively,” the group said.

They noted that the ongoing economic reforms in the country demand experienced lawmakers who can navigate complex policy environments and advocate for their people.

The group, however, raised concerns over the APC’s performance in the 2023 general elections in the state, pointing out that the party lost two of the three senatorial seats and the majority of House of Representatives positions.

“The only bright spot was Gombe Central, where Senator Goje secured victory alongside a House of Representatives member from his area,” they said.

They further argued that internal party dynamics at the time may have contributed to the outcome, urging greater inclusiveness and unity going forward.

While acknowledging recent political developments in the state, the stakeholders called for transparency and adherence to democratic principles in decisions regarding future representation.

“Leadership choices must reflect the genuine will of the people, free from imposition or undue interference,” they said.

The group said it had formally communicated its position to the APC leadership through its national chairman, urging the party to respect the voice of the electorate.

Reaffirming their stance, the stakeholders insisted that retaining Senator Goje would guarantee stability and sustained development for Gombe Central.

“Our support is rooted in conviction. We believe his continued presence in the Senate will bring more opportunities and strengthen representation for our people,” they added.