Nigeria News (Standard)
Osun PDP Rift and Accord Party Deregistration Threaten Governor Adeleke’s Re-Election Bid
Fresh internal disputes and INEC’s deregistration of Accord Party create new hurdles ahead of Osun 2026 governorship poll
Fresh internal disputes and INEC’s deregistration of Accord Party create new hurdles ahead of Osun 2026 governorship poll
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s chances of securing a second term as Governor of Osun State have come under fresh threat as a result of renewed crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state and the recent deregistration of Accord Party by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). These developments are unfolding at a crucial time, with the next governorship election drawing nearer.
The PDP in Osun State has been grappling with internal disagreements, with various factions disagreeing over party leadership and strategy. This infighting has raised concerns among party supporters about unity ahead of the 2026 polls. At the same time, INEC’s announcement on the deregistration of Accord Party — a party that previously provided alternative platforms for aggrieved politicians — is set to reshape political alignments in Osun.
These challenges come as Governor Adeleke prepares to consolidate his political base for re-election. The internal tussle within PDP threatens to weaken its electoral strength, while Accord Party’s removal from the ballot reduces options for potential defectors or coalition partners. Analysts say these factors could embolden opposition parties such as All Progressives Congress (APC), who are seeking to regain power in Osun State after losing in 2022.
PDP chieftains have urged warring factions to close ranks for party cohesion. Meanwhile, some stakeholders worry that unresolved disputes may force dissatisfied members to decamp to rival parties or withdraw support altogether. Opposition figures have welcomed INEC’s action on Accord Party, arguing it will clarify the political landscape ahead of elections.
As campaigns for 2026 approach, Governor Adeleke faces mounting pressure to unite his party and navigate a changing field. Political observers believe how he manages these internal crises and responds to new realities will be pivotal for PDP’s fortunes in Osun State.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Court-Ordered Deregistration of ADC in Abuja Threatens Atiku’s 2027 Presidential Ambitions
Legal move against African Democratic Congress raises concerns for PDP stalwart Atiku Abubakar’s coalition strategies
Legal move against African Democratic Congress raises concerns for PDP stalwart Atiku Abubakar’s coalition strategies
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has ordered the deregistration of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a development that may directly affect the political calculations of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The ruling, delivered on Monday, comes amid rising tensions over party alliances in Nigeria’s opposition ranks.
The court’s decision to remove ADC from the list of registered parties follows a petition challenging its compliance with electoral regulations. The judgment, which took effect immediately, leaves many ADC members and their supporters uncertain about their next political moves as preparations for the next general elections intensify.
Observers note that Atiku, a key figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has previously relied on support from smaller parties like ADC to strengthen his presidential bid through coalition arrangements. With ADC now out of the political equation, analysts say Atiku and other PDP strategists may have to revisit their approach to building a broad-based opposition front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
As at press time, neither Atiku nor national leaders of PDP had issued an official reaction to the court order. However, some party insiders who spoke anonymously described the development as “a setback for inclusive opposition politics.” Efforts to reach ADC officials for comment were unsuccessful.
Political analysts warn that this deregistration could trigger more aggrieved defections and complicate power-sharing talks among opposition groups. With electoral timelines fast approaching, stakeholders are watching closely to see how major opposition figures will respond and whether new alliances can be forged in time for the 2027 contest.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court Rejects Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq’s Bid to Overturn Arrest Warrant
Former Humanitarian Affairs Minister faces continued EFCC probe as judge upholds arrest order issued in graft case
Former Humanitarian Affairs Minister faces continued EFCC probe as judge upholds arrest order issued in graft case
A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the application by former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, seeking to set aside the arrest warrant issued against her. The ruling was delivered on Monday, reaffirming the court’s earlier directive for her arrest in connection with an ongoing corruption investigation.
The court had previously granted the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) a warrant to apprehend Umar-Farouq after she failed to honour several invitations regarding alleged financial misconduct during her tenure. On Monday, her legal team argued that due process was not followed in issuing the warrant and requested its reversal, but the presiding judge ruled that the application lacked merit.
Umar-Farouq served as Minister under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, overseeing major social intervention programmes. The EFCC’s probe centres on allegations of misappropriation of funds earmarked for vulnerable Nigerians, a matter that has attracted significant public attention given the scale of government social spending in recent years.
While Umar-Farouq’s counsel maintained that their client was willing to cooperate with investigators, the EFCC argued that repeated non-appearance had hampered progress in the case. The agency has intensified efforts to bring former officials to account, reflecting growing pressure from civil society groups demanding transparency in public office.
With the court’s decision standing, law enforcement agencies are expected to enforce the arrest warrant unless an appeal is filed and granted. This development signals a toughening stance by anti-graft bodies on high-profile cases involving former government officials.
Nigeria News (Standard)
British Council Launches Production Phase of Film Lab Africa in Lagos After Major Matchmaking Event
Programme brings together writers, producers and mentors as accelerator initiative enters key stage in Nigeria’s creative sector
Programme brings together writers, producers and mentors as accelerator initiative enters key stage in Nigeria’s creative sector
The British Council has officially moved Film Lab Africa Phase Two into its production phase, following a major matchmaking event held at the council’s Lagos office on 8 May 2026. The event brought together selected writers, creative producers, mentors and stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and accelerate project development within Nigeria’s dynamic film industry.
According to the organisers, the matchmaking session was designed to pair emerging talents with experienced industry figures, thereby creating new opportunities for cross-disciplinary partnerships. Attendees engaged in one-on-one sessions, group discussions and networking activities aimed at strengthening connections within the sector. The transition into the production phase marks a significant milestone for the accelerator programme, which has focused on capacity-building and talent development since its inception.
Film Lab Africa is part of a broader British Council initiative to support the growth of Nigeria’s creative economy by nurturing homegrown talent and providing access to resources and mentorship. Industry observers say the programme comes at a crucial time as Nollywood continues to expand its global reach while grappling with challenges such as funding gaps, technical capacity and distribution hurdles.
Representatives of the British Council stated that moving into production will allow participants to bring their concepts to life under professional guidance. The council noted that the matchmaking event was well-received by both local and international stakeholders, who praised its focus on practical skills development. No opposition response was provided as at press time.
With production now underway, participants are expected to begin principal photography on their projects in coming weeks. Organisers say they hope this phase will lead to increased visibility for Nigerian filmmakers and contribute positively to the nation’s reputation as a creative powerhouse in Africa.
Court-Ordered Deregistration of ADC in Abuja Threatens Atiku’s 2027 Presidential Ambitions
Lukaku Lifts Belgium as Salah Shines for Egypt — Final Score Not Confirmed in World Cup Qualifier
Abuja Court Rejects Ex-Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq’s Bid to Overturn Arrest Warrant
British Council Launches Production Phase of Film Lab Africa in Lagos After Major Matchmaking Event
Mohamed Salah Marks 34th Birthday With Historic World Cup Record for Egypt
Nigerian Army Rescues Widow of Ex-Defence Spokesman in Katsina Operation
Cape Verde’s 40-Year-Old Goalkeeper Sets World Cup Record Against Spain
Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualifying Record Remains Unmatched After Spain vs Cape Verde Result
NBS Reports Nigeria’s Inflation Rises to 15.93% as Food Prices Surge Nationwide
Reps Caucus Leader Challenges Oshiomhole on Peter Obi’s Security Record in Anambra
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Why More Nigerians Are Searching for Casino Bonuses—and What You Should Know Before Claiming
Ụlọ Ọrụ Nigeria Kwupụtara Nsogbu Nchekwa na Ụtụ Isi N’agbanyeghị Ịrị Elu Obi Ike Ahịa
Somali Referee Omar Artan Blocked From US World Cup Over Visa Row, Misses Dream Debut
Federal Government Launches Mining Grants for Research and Exploration Across Nigeria
