News
Ekiti North primary: Arise drags APC to court, insists he won lawfully
- /home/naijuinz/public_html/wp-content/plugins/mvp-social-buttons/mvp-social-buttons.php on line 27
https://naijablitznews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_8663-720x600.webp&description=Ekiti North primary: Arise drags APC to court, insists he won lawfully', 'pinterestShare', 'width=750,height=350'); return false;" title="Pin This Post">
- Share
- Tweet /home/naijuinz/public_html/wp-content/plugins/mvp-social-buttons/mvp-social-buttons.php on line 72
https://naijablitznews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_8663-720x600.webp&description=Ekiti North primary: Arise drags APC to court, insists he won lawfully', 'pinterestShare', 'width=750,height=350'); return false;" title="Pin This Post">
By Francesca Hangeior
Former Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Senator Ayo Arise, has confirmed that he has instituted a court action challenging the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for the district, insisting that he lawfully won the exercise.
Speaking in an interview in Ado-Ekiti, Arise said he approached the court immediately after the primary in line with the timelines stipulated in the Electoral Act, adding that he was therefore not surprised when his name was omitted from the party’s list of candidates.
He maintained that the suit was not driven by personal ambition but by the need to ensure that political parties comply with their own rules and uphold democratic principles.
According to him, he filed the suit within the legally prescribed period to preserve his right to seek judicial redress, arguing that waiting for subsequent announcements by the party would have rendered any legal action statute-barred.
Arise alleged that many aspirants were misled into waiting for declarations by the party’s national leadership despite provisions in the APC guidelines outlining the procedure for concluding the primary process.
He argued that the party failed to adhere to its own guidelines in conducting the senatorial primary.
“I went ahead and filed my case in court because I knew what was coming. That is why I was not surprised at the outcome. This is not about me; it is about ensuring that we have a system that works for everybody,” he said.
“I believe many people were carried away by statements that only the national officers could announce the winners, whereas the party guidelines clearly stated the procedure. There was more than met the eye, and I was careful not to fall into that trap.
“The court is now the arbiter. It will determine whether the guidelines released by the party were followed. Once rules are made, they must be obeyed. If they are violated, there must be a place where justice can be sought, and that place is the court.
“My name was omitted. I wasn’t cleared despite presenting my complaints and evidence during the appeal process. For anyone not to see what happened, it must have been deliberate. There appeared to be a written script.
“The only thing I went to court for is the primary election that I won. We conducted the election, the results were announced at the appropriate level and I emerged victorious. The court will determine who is right.
“If anyone decides to file now, that person would already be out of time. My lawyer understood the law, and we filed within the required timeline.
“I believe there are men and women of integrity on the bench. I have confidence in the judiciary, and I believe I will get my ticket back because I won massively.
“We have a process and we are following it. Nobody should worry. I believe justice will prevail.”
News
Tinubu Orders Construction of New Roads for Abuja Communities, Declares End to Abandoned FCT Projects(Photos)
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, directed the immediate expansion of road infrastructure to more communities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), declaring that his administration would continue to extend development to underserved areas while ending the era of abandoned projects in the nation’s capital.

Tinubu, who gave the directive while commissioning the rehabilitated over 16-kilometre Old Keffi Road, linking Kado Fish Market to Dei-Dei Junction through Life Camp, approved the construction of the Kaba –
Kagini – Zaudna road, after residents displayed banners highlighting the poor state of access roads in their communities.
Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the ceremony held along the Gwagwa Rail Station Road in Abuja, the President said his administration remained committed to ensuring that every district and community benefited from the dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are not slowing down. Across the FCT, from the centre to the area councils, we are building for inclusion, for safety and for growth. Every district deserves access. Every citizen deserves to feel the impact of government where they are,” Tinubu said.
He declared that the completion of the Old Keffi Road signalled the end of abandoned infrastructure projects in the FCT.
“When we assumed office under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we told Nigerians the era of abandoned projects in Abuja was over. Some doubted. Today, doubt has no ground to stand on.
“From Saburi 1 and 2, to this corridor, and to many others we started unveiling last month to mark the third anniversary of this administration, the pattern is clear: we identify the pain, we fund the solution, and we deliver.”
The President described the newly rehabilitated road as a practical demonstration of government’s resolve to improve the daily lives of residents.
“It gives great honour today to open a road that restores dignity to daily movement.
“The fully rehabilitated 15-kilometre Old Keffi Road, from Kado Village through Life Camp to Dei-Dei Junction by the Outer Northern Expressway, is now open for use. This is not a promise on paper. It is asphalt you can drive on, lights you can trust after dark, and drainages that serve both homes and markets.”
Tinubu explained that the project was initiated after the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, reported the deplorable condition of the strategic economic corridor serving Kado, Saburi, Gwagwa, Karmo, Idu and Dei-Dei.
“He brought the report to me. We acted,” the President said, adding that the Federal Executive Council subsequently approved the project and awarded it to Lubrik Construction Company Limited based on its proven capacity.
“Under this government, we do not reward patronage. We reward competence. If you deliver, you get more work. If you fail, you are out. Lubrik has delivered again.”
Tinubu also commended Wike for transforming the FCT through visible infrastructure development.
“Minister, you have turned the FCT into a site of visible results. You inspect, you decide, you follow through. You have matched development in the city centre with development in the districts and area councils so that no community is left behind.
“Mr. Projects’ is not a slogan. It is the record of roads opened, lights installed and deadlines met. I trust you. I rely on you. And Abuja is better because you are at the wheel.”
He equally praised the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, and the FCT Administration for delivering the project within schedule without compromising quality.
The President described the road as “an economic artery” that would reduce travel time, lower transportation costs and improve commercial activities by linking Kado, Saburi, Gwagwa, Karmo, Idu and Dei-Dei directly to the Outer Northern Expressway.
He added that the integrated streetlights under the Light Up Abuja initiative would improve security and support night-time economic activities.
Tinubu urged residents to protect the infrastructure by preventing vandalism of streetlights and keeping drainage channels free from refuse.
“This infrastructure belongs to you. Guard it. Do not vandalise streetlights. Do not block drains with refuse. Report any damage early.”
Earlier, FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike said the project fulfilled a long-standing promise made to residents and traders who had repeatedly appealed for the rehabilitation of the Old Keffi Road after the successful completion of the Saburi Road.
He recalled that during the Area Council election campaign, traders had appealed to him to tell President Tinubu that completing the road would earn their lasting appreciation.
“They told me, ‘Please tell Mr. President, if he completes this road for us, Mr. President should go home and sleep with his two eyes closed,’” Wike said.
The minister noted that the promise had now been fulfilled with the commissioning of the road.
In a dramatic moment during the event, Wike invited residents of Kaba, Kagini and Zaudna, carrying banners requesting another road project to come forward and announced that President Tinubu had approved immediate intervention.
“I have told the Executive Secretary of the FCDA to direct Lubrik Construction Company to move to this area immediately and construct the road,” Wike announced.
He said the decision reflected the true essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The whole essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda is to bring back hope where people have lost hope. Once Mr. President becomes aware of critical infrastructure needs that will improve connectivity and economic activities, he acts.”
Wike thanked Tinubu for approving the Old Keffi Road project and pledged that work on the newly approved road would commence without delay.
News
Akwanga-Jos Road: Mutfwang’s Persistence Has Paid Off — PVD
The Plateau Vanguard for Democracy, PVD, has commended Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for what it described as his sustained efforts in drawing the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to the deplorable condition of the Akwanga-Jos highway.
The group also praised President Tinubu for approving and flagging off the reconstruction of the strategic road, saying the intervention would bring huge relief to motorists, commuters, traders and communities along the corridor.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Chris Ishaku, PVD said Governor Mutfwang had demonstrated focus, persistence and responsible leadership by repeatedly engaging top officials of the Federal Government on the urgent need to reconstruct the road.
According to the group, the governor’s regular visits to Abuja and consultations with key federal authorities were not in vain, as they helped to place the road project on the front burner of national attention.
PVD noted that the Akwanga-Jos highway is not only critical to Plateau State but also serves as a major economic and security route linking the North Central region to other parts of the country.
The group said the flag-off of the reconstruction was another proof that constructive engagement between state and federal authorities can produce meaningful results for the people.
While stressing that the project should not be reduced to mere political gain, PVD said it was clear that Governor Mutfwang’s movement to the All Progressives Congress, APC, had made it easier for him to canvass support for Plateau’s development needs at the federal level.
“This is not about political celebration. It is about the welfare of the people. However, we must also acknowledge that the governor’s alignment with the ruling party has opened wider doors of engagement and made it easier for him to push Plateau’s case before the Federal Government,” Ishaku said.
The group urged citizens of Plateau State and other road users to be patient and supportive as the reconstruction begins, noting that the long-term benefits of the project would outweigh the temporary inconveniences likely to arise during construction.
PVD said when completed, the project would reduce travel time, improve trade, enhance security movement, cut down accidents and boost economic activities across Plateau, Nasarawa and neighbouring states.
It called on contractors handling the project to ensure quality delivery and urged communities along the route to cooperate fully with government agencies and construction workers.
The group further assured Governor Mutfwang of continued support, saying his commitment to infrastructure, peace and development had shown that he remained focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people of Plateau State.
News
Coalition of patriots Set To Honour Pastor Enoch Adeboye With Responsible Citizen Award
Working People United (WoPU), a broad coalition of patriots comprising organised labour unions, seasoned professionals, artisans, traders, and stakeholders across critical sectors of Nigeria’s economy, has announced its intention to confer its highly esteemed “Responsible Citizen Badge” on Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the revered General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
This recognition underscores WoPU’s commitment to celebrating individuals whose voices and actions embody patriotism, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to national unity. Pastor Adeboye’s influence, which transcends the pulpit, has consistently reflected moral clarity, responsible leadership, and a deep concern for Nigeria’s stability and progress.
“The Responsible Citizen Badge” is not merely symbolic; it represents WoPU’s civic mission to highlight exemplary citizens whose contributions strengthen institutional accountability, foster constructive dialogue, and inspire collective responsibility in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
By honouring Pastor Adeboye, WoPU seeks to affirm the value of principled leadership and encourage Nigerians at home and abroad to engage in nation-building with dignity and respect.
The honour will be bestowed in recognition of the highly revered clergy’s courageous and statesmanlike defence of Nigeria’s leadership and institutions, particularly in relation to the country’s ongoing security challenges.
The declaration follows Pastor Adeboye’s remarks at the US–Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala in Washington, where he responded to criticism of the Nigerian President’s handling of national security.
In his comments, Pastor Adeboye firmly rejected claims that the President had failed in addressing insecurity, stressing that the Commander-in-Chief’s role is to provide strategic leadership and direction, while operational responsibilities rest with the nation’s security agencies.
He noted pointedly that the President is not expected to “put on khaki,” underscoring the constitutional clarity of executive responsibility.WoPU described Adeboye’s intervention as a patriotic act and a demonstration of high responsiveness.
According to the coalition, Adeboye’s remarks contribute to a more balanced national discourse at a time when Nigeria faces complex security challenges requiring unity of purpose, institutional accountability, and coordinated action.
Speaking on the honour, WoPU Convener and National Coordinator, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha praised Pastor Adeboye’s courage and moral clarity:
“Pastor Adeboye has consistently demonstrated leadership that extends beyond the pulpit. His voice in moments of national tension reflects responsibility, wisdom, and a sincere commitment to the stability and progress of Nigeria. Unlike others who have gone abroad to disparage the country for personal gain, he has chosen to defend Nigeria with dignity and patriotism.”
The “Responsible Citizen Badge Award”, unveiled during WoPU’s Good Governance Summit on June 25, 2026, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, is designed to honour individuals whose public engagement strengthens unity, promotes responsible leadership, and advances constructive national dialogue.
WoPU emphasised that the award is civic in nature, not political, and is intended to recognise voices that contribute meaningfully to peace, accountability, and national development.
By honouring Pastor Adeboye, WoPU seeks to highlight the importance of responsible citizenship and encourage Nigerians at home and abroad to engage in discourse that uplifts the nation rather than undermines it.
-
Foreign12 hours ago‘Send Them To Hell’ – Iranian Clerics Call For Ass@ss!nation Of Trump, Netanyahu
-
Economy23 hours agoSee Black Market Dollar To Naira Exchange Rate Today 1st July 2026
-
News21 hours agoNUT suspends strike, directs Oyo teachers to resume Thursday
-
News12 hours agoAsylum Seekers To Pay £10,000 Before Settlement In UK
-
News24 hours agoCitizen Patience and Collaborative Efforts: A Pathway to Greatness for Tinubu’s Government, By Hajia Hansatu Zannah*
-
News17 hours agoInsecurity: Gunmen kidnap popular pastor, members in Benue
-
News3 hours agoNYSC reforms: Corps members to wear Adire instead of khaki — FG
-
News2 hours agoNavy arrests member of vehicle theft syndicate in Abuja
