Tag: Featured

  • Rivalry Between Alaafin and Ooni Stirs Concerns Over Unity in Yorubaland

    Rivalry Between Alaafin and Ooni Stirs Concerns Over Unity in Yorubaland

    By Dr. Adebayo Faleke

    The historic rivalry between the Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife has resurfaced, raising concerns about unity within the Yoruba traditional leadership structure, widely referred to as the House of Oduduwa.

    Observers note that the dispute, which is being interpreted as a battle for supremacy between the two revered thrones, reflects long-standing tensions rooted in colonial interference and subsequent political influences in the region’s royal institutions.

    Historians trace the origins of the rivalry to the colonial era, when British authorities, under indirect rule, altered the traditional hierarchy of Yoruba kingship. Some crowns were elevated, while others were weakened, creating divisions that had lasting consequences.

    Post-independence politics further deepened these cracks. Politicians often leveraged traditional institutions for partisan advantage, with succession disputes and royal authority increasingly shaped by political patronage rather than ancestral or cultural legitimacy.

    Analysts warn that the current tensions could distract from urgent socio-economic challenges facing the Southwest, including insecurity, youth unemployment, poverty, and the collapse of local industries. They argue that Yoruba monarchs, historically seen as custodians of unity and protectors of the people, should be at the forefront of finding solutions.

    Calls have grown for the region’s royal councils to work together with state governments and community groups to strengthen regional security initiatives such as Amotekun, revive agro-industrial projects, and address deteriorating education standards.

    “The crowns must serve as instruments of leadership and progress, not rivalry,” one commentator said. “The Yoruba nation cannot afford a divided House of Oduduwa at a time when insecurity and economic hardship are pressing issues.”

    Stakeholders are urging the Alaafin, the Ooni, and other traditional rulers to set aside rivalry and establish a united front to defend Yoruba cultural heritage while addressing contemporary governance and development challenges.

  • Indigenous Contractors Decry Unpaid Capital Projects, Call For Tinubu’s Intervention

    Indigenous Contractors Decry Unpaid Capital Projects, Call For Tinubu’s Intervention

    The All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) has accused the Federal Government of failing to pay for completed capital projects worth over ₦4 trillion, warning that thousands of contractors across the country are being pushed into debt, sickness, and financial ruin.

    Speaking during a protest in Abuja on Wednesday, the association’s president, Jackson Nwosu said despite government claims that payments for the 2024 capital projects had been made, less than one percent of indigenous contractors had received funds.

    “They’ve been owing us since last year for over 2,024 capital projects,” Nwosu said. “Out of more than 15,000 contractors, they have only paid about seven. Yet, they go around claiming that all payments have been settled. That is a lie. If they had paid us, we would not be on the streets.”

    Nwosu lamented that many of their members had died waiting for payment, while others struggled to pay school fees and settle debts with banks.

    “We are dying. Financial institutions are on our necks every day because the government claims to have paid us, but they haven’t. We will remain on the streets until every last contractor is paid,” he said.

    The group alleged that ministries and agencies had stopped forwarding approvals to the Ministry of Finance due to a funding freeze, worsening the backlog.

    Also, the National Secretary of the association, Babatunde Seun, echoed the president’s concerns, accusing government officials of insincerity and selective payment.

    He said contractors had fulfilled their obligations by completing projects but were left stranded because warrants issued for February and March were not backed by cash.

    “They always pay just one or two people and leave the rest,” he said. “We met with the Finance Minister and the Accountant-General, who assured us of payments within 48 hours. But nothing has happened. Some of us have lost our cars and properties to banks. We cannot even pay workers or our children’s school fees.”

    Seun appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene personally. “He was once a contractor and understands this struggle. If he instructs the Finance Minister to pay today, the money will be released,” he said.

    Some members narrated personal ordeals, including Davison Ahamefule, who said he executed a government contract in 2011 and received only half payment two years later.

    “They verified the project, but since then nothing has been paid. The interest rates from banks have swallowed everything. I am pleading with the government to pay us,” he said.

    The contractors said while they have avoided legal action in hopes of an amicable resolution, they may be forced to explore court options if the stalemate persists.

    “We are not violent people,” Seun stressed. “But if this continues, frustration will push more Nigerians out of the country. All we are asking is to be paid for the work we have done.”

  • CSOs Laud Refugee Commission’s Open-Door Policy, Pledge Stronger Partnership, Support for National Impact

    CSOs Laud Refugee Commission’s Open-Door Policy, Pledge Stronger Partnership, Support for National Impact

    •  As Federal Commissioner Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency, Unveils Plan for Dedicated CSO Desk Office

    Over 50 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from across Nigeria on Thursday converged at the headquarters of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Abuja, on a high-level courtesy visit to Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed.

    The powerful delegation was jointly led by Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor, Chairman of the CSO Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), and Ogakwu Dominic, President of the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), alongside leaders of several civil society organizations in Nigeria.

    Welcoming the delegation, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed commended the critical role of CSOs in strengthening democracy, accountability, and policy implementation. He emphasized that under his stewardship, the NCFRMI has embraced an open-door policy designed to encourage dialogue, inclusivity, and collaboration in the humanitarian sector.

    The Commissioner highlighted some of the Commission’s notable achievements, particularly in states such as Nasarawa, Benue, amongst others, where thousands of displaced persons, migrants, and asylum seekers have benefited from timely relief interventions, shelter support, and empowerment initiatives.

    “Our mission is not just to provide immediate relief but to restore dignity, build resilience, and ensure long-term rehabilitation for our displaced brothers and sisters. We are determined to leave no one behind,” Ahmed declared.

    Also in a major step to deepen transparency, the Federal Commissioner agreed to suggestions by announcing plans to establish a dedicated CSO Desk Office within the Commission. According to him, the new desk will serve as a direct liaison point with civil society groups, ensuring smooth collaboration, stronger oversight, and due diligence in all NCFRMI activities.

    Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor hailed the Commissioner’s performance, describing the visit as “one of a kind.” He noted that Aliyu Tijani Ahmed has set a new benchmark for leadership in public service.

    “As a performing public steward, you have earned the confidence of civil society. The CSOs present here today, and those across the wider coalition, will continue to support and rally around you to ensure that the Commission achieves its mandate,” Agbonkpolor stated.

    Corroborating his remarks, Ogakwu Dominic lauded Ahmed for his humility, responsiveness, and openness to partnership. He stressed that the collaboration between the Commission and CSOs would set a new standard for humanitarian governance in Nigeria.

    The visit not only underscored the growing synergy between government and civil society but also signaled a new chapter of accountability, inclusivity, and partnership in addressing Nigeria’s displacement and migration challenges.

     

     

  • Smart Security Pioneer Tayo Adelakun Pushes Digital Access Systems to Transform Nigerian Business

    With more than 15 years of experience spanning Europe and Africa, security entrepreneur Tayo Adelakun is at the forefront of efforts to modernize access management and infrastructure systems across Nigeria and the continent.

    Adelakun, founder of Lockworth Nigeria and Chief Executive of Adekolme Nigeria Limited, is working with South African partners Yebotech to bring advanced technologies that replace traditional locks with digital, trackable systems.

    His journey began in Europe, where he represented global security giant ABLOY in Nigeria—supplying locks and padlocks that secured MTN and Airtel base stations nationwide. His portfolio later grew to include landmark architectural projects such as the tower cladding of Zenith Bank’s headquarters on Ajose Adeogun, Lagos, and the Civic Towers on Victoria Island.

    “We believe in African connections,” Adelakun said. “Security is no longer about physical locks alone—it has moved into access management and digital innovations.”

    Through a partnership with Yellow Tech, Adelakun is introducing Bluetooth-enabled smart locks that allow organizations to manage access digitally. These systems provide over 10,000 programmable options on a single key, giving security departments the ability to revoke or adjust access instantly—without changing locks.

    Beyond security, Nigerian businesses are finding broader applications. Companies now use the technology to track staff attendance, prevent fraudulent billing, and enhance accountability. “If you don’t show up on time, your key simply won’t give you access,” Adelakun explained.

    While cautious about branding the innovation as an anti-corruption tool, Adelakun acknowledges its power to reduce inefficiency and misuse of resources.

    On Nigeria’s broader security challenges, such as porous borders, he is pragmatic:

    “That is a different ball game. Our expertise is in access management for offices, estates, banks, and secure premises. That’s where we add value—ensuring only authorized people gain entry and leaving a digital audit trail.”

    Adelakun insists these solutions are not a cost but a long-term investment.

    “What you lose in five years by not adopting this technology will be far greater than the cost of deploying it today,” he said.

    Looking ahead, he believes Nigerian corporations, especially banks and large institutions, must align with global standards to stay competitive.

    “Technology is no longer optional—it is about trust, risk reduction, and aligning Nigeria with world standards. If New York or London can secure their cities with modern systems, then Lagos can too.”

    For Adelakun, the vision is clear: to build Nigerian infrastructure and corporate culture on a foundation of smart, transparent, world-class security.

  • The Strategist Behind the Shift: How Aline Varre is Redefining Development in Niger Delta

    The Strategist Behind the Shift: How Aline Varre is Redefining Development in Niger Delta

    By Alwalled Kabir Yusuf

    When the Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) launched in the early 2010s, few observers expected it to shift the tide in one of Africa’s most volatile regions. Decades of oil- fueled conflict, entrenched underdevelopment, and deeply rooted distrust, the Niger Delta had long been tagged as ‘unfixable’, a region too politicized and fragmented for lasting progress.

    Today, PIND is recognized as a pioneering model in the Niger Delta, promoting that lasting peace and prosperity are forged within the nexus between economic development and peacebuilding, even in the most fragile places, one that successfully wove together community ownership, strategic investment, and private sector collaboration.

    Rooted in PIND’s systemic pillars for sustainable development, Aline Varre is taking the mission to its next chapter, driving innovation, deepening impact, and shaping the future of fragile-region development.

    The Systems Architect Behind the Curtain

    Varre, a French and English-speaking development strategist, over ten years at PIND and for the last 2 years as Director of Strategy and Business Development. She is spare heading a $75 million co-lending vehicle to unlock financing for solar energy, and youth empowerment across the Niger delta. Varre states, I stand on the shoulders of my expert colleagues at PIND”-with this she has become a driving voice within policy and social investment circles of peace impact investing as an integrated framework for blended finance in fragile regions.

    “Grant funding was never designed to carry the full weight of sustainability, it’s the spark, not the flame. Without a continuum of capital that blends philanthropy, development finance, and market investment, ‘sustainable development’ will remain an empty phrase on the continent. And for sustainable impact in fragile region, we have to learn to monitize peace building as part of the strategy.”

    Beyond CSR: Financing with Depth

    What set PIND apart, and what made Varre’s innovative approach unique, is the amplification of what is known as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) or social investments and applying it to development, because “doing good is good for business”- says Varre . She champions blended finance- a model that combines commercial capital, philanthropic grants, catalytic capital, to reduce risk and amplify local ownership. “I believe that PIND is a leading force in philanthropy and it is a model to learn from”

    She is fluent in both the boardroom and the grassroots, the English-speaking global development world and the often-overlooked Francophone regions that remain structurally locked in post-colonial frameworks.

    “The CFA franc system keeps Francophone Africa financially tethered,” Varre explains. “Reform is essential, but it must be strategic, or we risk unintended collapse.”

    Her call is clear: a new generation of African development leaders must be both architects and negotiators, fluent in finance, history, and community voice and the private sector’s business strategies.

    From Influence to Infrastructure

    Beyond fieldwork, Varre contributes to broader debates on localization, feminist strategy, and the decolonization of aid. She has served on advisory boards for women’s leadership initiatives and regularly collaborates with think tanks advancing policy reform in fragile states and for providing women with access to financing.

    In recent months, global institutions have taken notice. She has participated in UN-hosted regional consultations, philanthropic leadership summits, and high-level finance forums. Her commentaries have appeared in Quartz Africa, Devex, and African Arguments, where she challenges institutions to fund differently, and more equitably.

    “The development conversation is undergoing a fundamental shift,” says a senior adviser at a multilateral peacebuilding institution. “It’s no longer just about funding projects, it’s about reshaping power, redefining priorities, and rethinking how capital flows. Aline is helping lead that transformation. “From Legacy to Blueprint

    As development actors rethink how to embed sustainability, equity, and legitimacy into global systems, Varre’s work and voice across the continent is Is one that we are leaning in to listen to. (something to that effect)

    From one region to the entire continent, her mission has scaled, but her credo holds firm: design for endurance, not recognition.

    “The most powerful lesson I’ve learned,” she reflects, “is that transformation begins with trust.

    Metrics are important, but legitimacy is what holds systems together.”

    As African voices increasingly shape global development narratives, leaders like Aline Varre are no longer behind the curtain. They’re at the table, reshaping how the world understands fragility, and sustainability and more importantly, how it responds.

    Yusuf, a journalist and development monitor, contributed this piece from Abuja.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • IADI Alleges Plot to Hijack Kafe Green Area Land

    • Alleges compromise by FCDA Executive Secretary and staff, using FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s name to push reallocation for personal gain.
    • Urges Wike’s intervention as genuine allottee battles displacement despite ₦300m investment

    The Integrity Advocacy for Development Initiative (IADI) has raised alarm over what it described as a plot by senior officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to hijack the Kafe Green Area in Abuja, despite a pending court case and huge investments already made by the original allottee.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, the Executive Director of IADI, Christopher Ofomhi, disclosed that the land was duly allocated to BUNJOA Concept Ltd in 2007, with the company paying ground rent up until 2010.

    According to him, the Department of Parks & Recreation confirmed the payments before an embargo was later placed on ground rent collection.

    Ofomhi stated that the company had already spent about ₦300 million on compensation and statutory charges, only for the land to be dubiously reallocated by what he described as “corrupt successors of Bukus Achi,” the former Director of Parks & Recreation, allegedly for personal gain. He accused the current FCDA Executive Secretary and some staff members of compromising the process by hiding under the name of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to push through a reallocation scheme designed to benefit private interests.

    Despite the fact that the matter has been in court since 2022, with FCDA lawyers actively participating, Ofomhi revealed that a new company, Tegwa-Tegwanig Ltd, has now emerged, claiming it was engaged by the FCDA to develop a multi-event sports centre on the disputed site.

    “This development raises serious questions. What has happened to the genuine allottee who followed due process and invested millions? Why does the FCDA appear to disregard judicial processes and the constitutional rights of Nigerians to own property anywhere in the country? And why is an Executive Secretary in such a hurry to displace the rightful owner without due process or fair compensation?” Ofomhi queried.

    The civil society group alleged that some FCDA officials were hiding under the guise of a public project to appropriate the land for personal benefit. It warned that such acts of impunity undermine public trust in government institutions.

    IADI therefore called on the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, the FCDA leadership, and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene and halt what it described as “the planned hijack of an innocent citizen’s land.”

    “Land administration in Abuja must not be reduced to a playground for corruption. Due process must be respected, the courts must be allowed to decide, and citizens must be protected from exploitation,” Ofomhi stressed.

    Concluding the statement, IADI emphasized that the matter transcends the interest of one company, describing it as a litmus test for governance credibility and the rule of law in Nigeria.

    “As civil society, we cannot stand aloof while a dangerous culture of impunity takes root in the heart of the nation’s capital. If judicial pronouncements and due process are ignored in Abuja, then what hope do ordinary Nigerians have in other parts of the country?” Ofomhi asked.

    The group further appealed to the Director General of the State Security Service (DGSS) to prevail on the FCT DSS to conclude its ongoing investigation into the Parks & Recreation Department and ensure that all those found culpable face justice, noting that this will serve as a deterrent to others.

    The group also warned that it was prepared, alongside allied civil society organizations, to escalate the matter through lawful civic action, including peaceful demonstrations and public advocacy, until justice is achieved.

    “We will stand firmly on the side of justice. This is not just about land, it is about whether Nigerians can trust their government to protect rights and respect the courts. No one is above the law, and we will not relent until accountability prevails,” IADI declared.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Youth Coalition Demands Better Funding for NNRA to Safeguard Public, Environment

    Youth leaders and civil society organizations have thrown their weight behind the Director General of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), calling on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to strengthen the agency with increased budgetary allocation in order to safeguard public health, environmental safety, and national energy security.

    The call was led by Ambassador Akoshile Mukhtar, National Vice President (North Central) of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday. He praised the NNRA leadership for maintaining international best practices in nuclear regulation, radiation protection, and oversight of nuclear technology in Nigeria.

    Mukhtar noted that the NNRA plays a critical role in shielding Nigerians from harmful radiation exposure, ensuring the safe use of nuclear applications in industries, and building investor confidence in the energy and industrial sectors.

    “The NNRA under its present leadership has not only upheld Nigeria’s international obligations but has also positioned the country as a responsible player in nuclear safety across Africa. This is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs to safeguard lives, protect our environment, and guarantee energy sustainability,” Mukhtar said.

    He, however, lamented that chronic underfunding remains a major obstacle to the agency’s effectiveness despite its wide-ranging responsibilities in healthcare, oil and gas, agriculture, defense operations, and Nigeria’s growing nuclear energy ambitions.

    “Funding nuclear safety is not optional—it is essential. A well-resourced NNRA translates to a safer Nigeria, stronger compliance with global standards, and greater investor trust,” he added.

    Following deliberations, the youth and civil society coalition resolved to push for:

    Engagement with the National Assembly to secure increased allocations for NNRA in the 2025/2026 budget cycles.

    Nationwide public awareness campaigns on nuclear and radiation safety.

    Support for reforms aimed at modernizing NNRA’s regulatory frameworks.

    Inclusion of Nigerian youths in nuclear safety initiatives, research, and capacity building.

    Deeper cooperation with international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), for training and technical support.

    Recognition of nuclear safety as a national security priority, particularly in preventing radiological emergencies and misuse of nuclear materials.

    Integration of nuclear safety into Nigeria’s climate change and clean energy agenda.

    The coalition concluded by urging the Federal Government to “match commitment with resources,” stressing that the NNRA remains a silent but strategic guardian of national safety and sustainable development.

  • ‎Former IGP Abubakar Denies Online Report Criticizing Tinubu on Security Issues

    ‎Former IGP Abubakar Denies Online Report Criticizing Tinubu on Security Issues

    Former Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Dahiru Abubakar (rtd), has debunked a statement circulating online which allegedly quoted him as criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the country’s security challenges.

    ‎The report, dated August 10, 2025, appeared on a little-known website and social media page under the name “ADC Vanguard.” It credited the retired police chief with remarks suggesting disapproval of the administration’s handling of national security.

    ‎In a statement issued by his media aide, Mahmud Bello on Monday, the former IGP described the publication as “false, malicious, and a product of mischief makers.” He stated that he had not spoken to the press, granted any interviews, or authorized anyone to speak on his behalf regarding the matter.

    ‎“I am a retired security executive enjoying my retirement. I am apolitical and do not involve myself in partisan politics,” Abubakar said. “The statement credited to me should be disregarded, dismissed, and discountenanced in its entirety. It is a figment of the writer’s imagination, created to malign my image and reputation built over the years.”

    ‎He further urged Nigerians to avoid spreading unverified claims that could “unnecessarily heat the polity,” and called on political leaders to place national interest above personal ambition.

    ‎The former IGP’s reaction comes amid rising concerns over fake news and misinformation in Nigeria’s political space, with growing calls for caution and accountability in public discourse.

  • NDYPC Hails Otuaro’s Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme

    NDYPC Hails Otuaro’s Reforms in Presidential Amnesty Programme

    • Lauds transparency, fairness in beneficiary selection and grassroots empowerment

    • Says reforms align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, restore trust in Niger Delta

    The Niger Delta Youths for Positive Change (NDYPC) has commended the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for what it described as bold, people-focused reforms that are restoring trust and delivering tangible benefits to the Niger Delta.

    In a statement signed and issued by Comrade Elliott Yibakeni, after the conclusion of leadership training sessions with ex-agitator leaders in Abuja, the group said the PAP, once in urgent need of renewal, is now undergoing a transformation that reflects transparency, fairness, and accountability.

    “At a time when public trust in institutions was waning, Dr. Otuaro has emerged as a symbol of credibility and transformation,” the statement read. “His visionary leadership is restoring integrity, empowering communities, and driving a sustainable development agenda that resonates with the aspirations of the Niger Delta.”

    According to NDYPC, under Otuaro’s leadership, beneficiary selection has become fair and merit-based, ending years of favoritism and political interference. The group added that access to education, skills training, and empowerment opportunities, both locally and abroad, is now guided by equity and open competition.

    The group highlighted several internal reforms, including improved staff welfare, strengthened professional capacity, and strict adherence to best practices in public procurement. These, it said, have made the PAP more efficient, responsive, and transparent.

    NDYPC also praised Otuaro’s inclusive governance style, noting his sustained engagement with traditional rulers, women leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities. This approach, the group said, has strengthened peace-building efforts and deepened trust between the PAP and the people it serves.

    In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the PAP has maintained consistent payment of stipends to ex-agitators and extended direct support to vulnerable populations. NDYPC also applauded new healthcare interventions for ex-agitators facing health challenges.

    The statement further commended the programme’s investments in scholarships, vocational training, and economic empowerment initiatives aimed at preparing Niger Delta youths for leadership, innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.

    “Every decision reflects a deep commitment to public trust, responsible stewardship, and long-term development,” NDYPC stated. “Under Dr. Otuaro’s watch, the Niger Delta is rising stronger, united, and filled with renewed hope.”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ambode Declares Total Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

    Ambode Declares Total Support for President Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

    •  Dismisses claims of gubernatorial ambition under ADC.

    Former Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has publicly reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pledging full commitment to the President’s 2027 re-election campaign.

    In a strongly worded statement on Saturday, Ambode dismissed recent speculations linking him to a governorship ambition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the reports as “false publications” aimed at causing distractions.

    “I wish to publicly reaffirm my absolute and unshakable loyalty to the APC, the party under which I had the privilege of serving Lagos State as governor in 2015, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my leader, mentor, and a tireless champion for Nigeria’s progress,” Ambode said.

    The former governor praised President Tinubu’s leadership style, describing him as a “proven achiever and result-oriented leader” whose administration has delivered significant reforms in pensions, student loan accessibility, youth empowerment, and national economic growth.

    Highlighting key achievements of the Tinubu administration, Ambode pointed to the elimination of fuel scarcity, improved security measures, and policies designed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

    “His focus, determination, and inclusive governance style are restoring hope and delivering tangible results. I am convinced that, given another four years, Nigerians will have even greater reason to celebrate,” Ambode stated.

    He urged party faithful and Nigerians at large to ignore political distractions, pledging to work tirelessly to strengthen the APC and ensure President Tinubu’s victory in 2027.

    “Let it be clear: I stand solidly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress. We will work together to ensure victory in 2027 to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to all Nigerians,” Ambode concluded.

    Ambode’s declaration comes amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the former governor making it clear that his political loyalty remains firmly with the APC and its leader.