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“YOU ARE PLAYING WITH FIRE”, ADC WARNS GOVERNMENT AGENTS SEEKING PARTY DE-REGISTRATION – JUSTICE PETER LIFU IS A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY, SAYS PARTY

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1 month ago

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment concerning its de-registration, describing the ruling as a threat to democracy and political stability, and warns of the dire consequences that may follow any effort to remove the party from the ballot.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party argued that the curious judgment is yet the clearest evidence of the desperation of the ruling party and the government to ensure that President Tinubu holds on to power by any means necessary, even if it means subverting democracy and throwing the country into a crisis of immense proportions.

The party emphasised that the Constitution grants only INEC the power to register or de-register a political party. However, this judgment has flagrantly contradicted INEC’s position on affidavit and ignored a subsisting order of stay of proceedings of the Court of Appeal. The ADC therefore vowed to challenge the ruling through all lawful means, while urging its members to remain calm and await further directives.

The full statement read:

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) wishes to warn, in the strongest possible terms, against any attempt to use the judiciary as an instrument to undermine democracy and plunge Nigeria into a major political crisis.

We are deeply alarmed by the judgment reportedly delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in a case filed by the so-called National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the de-registration of the ADC and four other political parties. This judgment stands in direct conflict with constitutional principles and all known judicial processes and procedures.

The facts are straightforward. The plaintiffs had argued that the ADC and four other political parties failed to satisfy constitutional requirements relating to continued registration. However, in its counter-affidavit filed before the court in May, INEC, the constitutional body empowered with the registration, regulation, and supervision of political parties in Nigeria, categorically maintained that the ADC had not violated any registration requirements, had not failed any constitutional electoral-performance threshold, and that no legally recognised basis existed for its de-registration.

INEC further made it clear that the de-registration of a political party cannot be driven by political pressure, sentiment, or the wishes of interested parties. It must be based strictly on constitutionally established grounds, none of which had been proven against the ADC.

Apart from INEC’s firm position in support of the party, the ADC finds it troubling that the trial judge was aware of a subsisting order of the Court of Appeal issued on May 22, 2026, directing a stay of proceedings on the matter. The judge, however, chose to flagrantly and contemptuously disregard a clear order of a superior court in a manner that brings into question all known judicial traditions.

The ADC considers this development not merely a legal dispute, but a dangerous escalation capable of destabilising the nation’s democratic process. Our position is anchored on the role that agents of the ruling party have played in this matter. It would be recalled that the case has been championed directly by individuals working with the President’s Chief of Staff. The decision of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, who is a second defendant in the matter, to join the matter as a plaintiff in April, is an absurdity, which sends a signal that is impossible to ignore.

We are therefore left in no doubt that this latest development is a continuation of the ruling party’s persistent efforts to undermine the opposition, especially the ADC. We also find the timing of this ruling quite curious. Despite all the obstacles placed in its way, the ADC has risen to the task and met all benchmarks and deadlines. Therefore, coming at a time when the party has concluded its primaries and is fielding candidates for all positions in the next election, especially the presidential election, it is clear what this is all about.

However, the ADC would like to warn that any attempt to eliminate the country’s major opposition party through judicial manoeuvring, thereby sabotaging the political aspirations of hundreds of its candidates, is a direct invitation to anarchy.

This is why we consider this ruling reckless, provocative, and even incendiary. Those who believe they can manipulate institutions of state to narrow the democratic space must understand that they are playing with forces far greater than partisan interests.

At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling under crushing economic hardship, escalating insecurity, widespread unemployment, and growing national anxiety inflicted by the APC, it is deeply disturbing that powerful forces appear more interested in eliminating political opposition than confronting the real crises facing the country.

From our standpoint, the issue before the country is no longer simply about party registration. It is about whether the Nigerian people will be allowed genuine political choices in 2027. It is about whether democracy will remain a contest decided by voters at the ballot box or by powerful interests operating through institutions that ought to remain impartial.

Let it be clearly stated: the ADC will not stand by while the democratic rights of millions of Nigerians are threatened. We reject any and all attempts to intimidate, suppress, deregister, or politically extinguish our party and other opposition parties through means that offend both the spirit and the letter of the Constitution.

Nigeria is a nation of law, not a nation governed by the whims and caprices of agents of the ruling party. Therefore, as a law-abiding political party, the ADC will vigorously challenge this judgment through every lawful and constitutional avenue available to us. We shall mobilise all democratic stakeholders. We shall defend the rights of all our candidates, members, supporters, and the millions of Nigerians who are looking to the ADC as a credible alternative for national renewal.

Make no mistake, this is another act of desperation by the ruling party and the government to hand President Tinubu a second term without contest. This will not work. We therefore warn those who are seeking to manufacture a civilian dictatorship to understand that democracy cannot be strangled without consequences for national stability.

The responsibility for any tension or crisis arising from efforts to weaponise the judiciary against legitimate political opposition will rest squarely with those who are pursuing this dangerous and illegitimate path.

Meanwhile, the ADC will petition the National Judicial Council (NJC) over the judicial rascality demonstrated by the presiding judge of the Federal High Court, whose conduct has continued to bring the institution of the judiciary into disrepute.

We call on all our members, candidates, supporters, and coalition partners across the country to remain calm, vigilant, and steadfast. Whatever it takes, the ADC will be on the ballot so long as the 2027 election is to hold.

Further directives will be communicated through the appropriate channels.

Signed:

Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi
National Publicity Secretary
African Democratic Congress (ADC)

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Abia Commissioner Urges Youths to Embrace Farming as State Expands Free Agricultural Support Programme

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2 days ago

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July 15, 2026

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The Abia State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Cliff Agbaeze, FCIB, has called on young people across the state to take advantage of the government’s ongoing agricultural empowerment programme by embracing farming as a sustainable means of livelihood rather than engaging in criminal activities.

 

 

Speaking during the distribution of farm inputs to beneficiaries, Dr. Agbaeze said the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti is committed to transforming agriculture into a major driver of economic growth, food security, and youth employment in Abia State.

He noted that the increasing involvement of some youths in internet fraud and other criminal activities could be significantly reduced if more young people channel their energy into productive ventures such as agriculture.

According to the Commissioner, the state’s farmers empowerment programme has already captured more than 17,000 genuine farmers across the 17 Local Government Areas of Abia State, with plans to reach many more beneficiaries in the coming months.

“We have approximately five more tranches of agricultural inputs that will be distributed after this phase. Therefore, those who do not receive inputs today should remain hopeful, as they stand a greater chance of benefiting in subsequent batches. There is no need for panic or stampede,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze explained that only properly verified and authenticated farmers captured in the state’s agricultural database would benefit from the programme. He stressed that the measure was introduced to eliminate the activities of ghost or portfolio farmers and ensure that government resources reach genuine farmers.

He disclosed that all farm inputs, including over 100 tonnes of fertilizer, have been fully paid for by the Abia State Government and are being distributed free of charge to beneficiaries. He further revealed that the government also provided free transportation for farmers to and from the distribution centres.

The Commissioner stated that beneficiaries would receive continuous support through training programmes and agricultural extension services provided by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with experts from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) and the Abia State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP).

He explained that the initiative is designed to promote modern farming techniques, increase agricultural productivity, improve environmental sustainability, and enhance the living standards of farmers across the state.

“Our goal is to help our farmers move beyond subsistence farming to commercial agriculture. We want them to expand their production, increase their income, and become major contributors to the state’s economy and Nigeria’s food security,” he said.

Dr. Agbaeze added that increased agricultural production would not only create employment opportunities for thousands of youths but would also reduce crime, improve food availability, stabilize food prices, and strengthen the state’s economy.

He expressed confidence that with sustained government support, Abia farmers would soon produce enough food not only for the state but also for other parts of Nigeria and eventually for export.

The Commissioner commended Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for his unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector, describing the farmers empowerment programme as a clear demonstration of the administration’s determination to improve food production, create jobs, and enhance the welfare of the people of Abia State.

 

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CAADES Group Seals Landmark UK-Nigeria Partnership to Launch Ikoyi Chapmans Across Africa

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4 days ago

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July 13, 2026

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A new chapter in Nigeria’s beverage industry was unveiled on Sunday as CAADES Group signed a landmark trade partnership and distribution agreement with British entrepreneurs Mike and Garry Robinson to introduce Ikoyi Chapmans to the Nigerian market and expand its reach across Africa.

The agreement, described as more than a commercial venture, represents the culmination of a friendship spanning decades and highlights the growing economic and cultural ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, the Chairman of CAADES Group, Hon. Chima Desmond Anyaso, reflected on the remarkable journey that inspired the partnership.

According to him, more than four decades ago, Mike and Garry Robinson left Nigeria after spending part of their childhood in the country. Although they relocated to the United Kingdom, they carried with them treasured memories of Nigeria, including their love for Chapman, the iconic non-alcoholic cocktail that became a symbol of friendship, celebration, and unforgettable moments during their formative years.

Hon. Anyaso noted that after more than 40 years, the Robinson brothers returned to Nigeria, not only to reconnect with the country that shaped part of their lives but also to invest in its future through a strategic business partnership.

He explained that the newly signed agreement will see Ikoyi Chapmans introduced into the Nigerian market, with plans for expansion into other African countries, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, and employment.

Describing the occasion as historic, Anyaso said the event symbolized far more than the launch of a beverage brand.

According to him, the partnership represents the renewal of enduring friendships, the strengthening of family ties, and the power of relationships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared values. He added that such relationships have the capacity to inspire innovation, create economic opportunities, and foster sustainable development across borders.

The CAADES Group Chairman disclosed that what began years ago as a casual meeting with Mike and Garry Robinson gradually evolved into a lifelong friendship and has now matured into a strategic business alliance with the potential to strengthen commercial relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

As part of the ceremony, Hon. Anyaso presented the Robinson brothers with symbolic gifts that reflected Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. The presentations included the Nigerian Coat of Arms, traditional Igbo Isi Agu attire, customized crested hand fans bearing their names, traditional beads, and the iconic red cap. He explained that the gifts were intended to honour the brothers’ enduring connection with Nigeria and celebrate a partnership founded on friendship, trust, and shared aspirations.

Hon. Anyaso also expressed appreciation to the partnership’s strategic collaborator, Dr. Efosa Ogbeide, alongside other individuals whose support and commitment helped bring the vision to fruition.

He expressed confidence that the partnership would contribute significantly to the growth of Nigeria’s beverage industry while opening new investment opportunities across Africa. He further stated that the initiative is expected to stimulate innovation, strengthen regional trade, and deepen commercial collaboration between African and international partners.

The launch of Ikoyi Chapmans marks not only the introduction of a beverage brand but also the beginning of a broader vision that celebrates history, preserves lifelong friendships, connects cultures, and creates a lasting legacy for future generations.

Industry observers believe the partnership underscores Nigeria’s growing attractiveness as a destination for international investment while demonstrating how personal relationships can evolve into ventures that promote economic development and cross-cultural cooperation.

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Hope Restored as Ezera Chisom Foundation Holds Free Medical Outreach

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5 days ago

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July 12, 2026

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Abia State House of Assembly, Ohafia South Constituency, Hon. Ezera Queen Chisom, has announced a free medical outreach aimed at improving access to healthcare services for residents across Ohafia communities.

In a statement released ahead of the programme, Hon. Chisom emphasized the importance of good health as the foundation for personal and national development, noting that a healthy population is essential for economic growth and social progress.

Quoting the popular adage, “Once there is health, there is hope. For a healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” she stated that good health enables individuals to learn, work, earn a living, build businesses, raise families, and pursue their aspirations, while poor health can diminish even the greatest financial resources.

She explained that the medical outreach forms part of her commitment to promoting the well-being of the people of Ohafia South Constituency through practical interventions that directly impact their lives.

Hon. Chisom called on residents from all wards and communities in Ohafia to take advantage of the free healthcare programme, which is scheduled to hold on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the Elu Ohafia Village Square, beginning at 10:00 am

The ADC House of Assembly hopeful reiterated her campaign motto, “Action Beats Words,” describing the initiative as a demonstration of her resolve to prioritize the welfare of the people through meaningful service and community-focused programmes.

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