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2027: Gbenga-Hashim Solidarity Movement faults PDP Presidential tickets zoned to South, says it is unconstitutional

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The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM) has faulted the decision of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Executive Committee (NEC) to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, describing it as a constitutional and strategic blunder.

The GHSM declared that it will continue to advocate for Dr. Gbenga Hashim’s presidential candidacy in 2027 despite what it described as the strategic and constitutional error committed by the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC).

The group warned that such action may not only jeopardize the party’s chances in 2027, but could also expose its candidate to possible disqualification by the courts.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Abdulrazaq Hamzat, the movement argued that the PDP NEC, despite acting on a resolution that may enjoy majority support, lacks the legal authority to restrict elective offices to any region, as this violates both the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999 as amended) and the PDP’s own constitution.

The group cited Section 42(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which forbids any form of discrimination against citizens on grounds of ethnic group, place of origin, religion, sex, or political opinion, adding that shutting out aspirants based on “zoning” runs contrary to this provision.

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He further referenced Section 7(2)(c) of the PDP Constitution, which affirms that the party shall “conform to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” stressing that zoning elective offices amounts to a direct violation.

The movement reminded Nigerians that in 1999, despite the overwhelming sentiment of the June 12 annulment, the PDP did not zone its presidential ticket. Instead, aspirants from across the country contested freely, including Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (South West), Dr. Alex Ekwueme (South East), Chief Jim Nwobodo (South East),Alhaji Abubakar Rimi (North West) and Dr Francis Ellah (South South).

“In that election, every aspirant exercised their democratic rights, and Nigerians expressed their sentiments through legitimate votes, not through exclusion,” Hamzat recalled.

Similarly, in 2003, despite being the sitting president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was not handed an automatic ticket. He contested alongside other heavyweights such as Chief Barnabas Gemade (North Central) and Alhaji Abubakar Rimi (North West), while aspirants from other regions were also cleared to participate.

The group further recalled that the PDP’s loss of power in 2015 was largely a consequence of the party’s deviation from this tradition. By granting President Goodluck Jonathan an automatic ticket and shutting out northern aspirants, the party provoked a major rebellion that saw five northern governors and several key stakeholders walk out of the convention in protest.

“History has shown us that whenever the PDP abandons its democratic tradition of open contests, it pays a heavy price,” Hamzat stated. “The zoning of the 2027 presidential ticket is, therefore, not just an error but a dangerous miscalculation.”

Hamzat maintained that no political party in the history of Nigeria has ever zoned its presidential ticket to a particular region, stressing that the PDP NEC’s action sets a negative precedent that could deepen regional divisions and make national unity more elusive.

The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement reaffirmed its commitment to continue advocating for a level playing field within the PDP and vowed to sustain its support for Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim in the 2027 presidential race.

“We believe Dr. Gbenga Hashim represents the true spirit of unity, inclusivity, and visionary leadership that Nigeria desperately needs. No amount of unconstitutional zoning will deter our movement. We will continue to push for the reversal of this error before the November convention,” the statement concluded.

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Kwankwaso Officially Joins ADC

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party and ex-Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, has officially joined the African Democratic Congress.

The former Minister of Defence also registered with the party and received his membership card on Monday at Gidan Kwankwasiyya, Miller Road, Bompai, Kano.

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Present at the event include ADC National Chairman and former Senate President, David Mark; former Sokoto State Governor, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi; former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; Senator Dino Melaye; and former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, John Odigie-Oyegun, among others.

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FMBN Chairman Nasiru Gawuna Resigns, Set to Defect to ADC Amid Kano Political Realignments

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Gawuna

 

The chairman of the Governing Board of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, FMBN, Nasiru Gawuna, has resigned from his position.

Reports indicate that Mr Gawuna has perfected his defection deal with a former governor of Kano, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and is expected to defect to ADC on Tuesday.

In a resignation letter dated March 27, 2026, the former APC governorship candidate said his decision takes immediate effect and aligns with the President’s instruction aimed at ensuring adherence to electoral laws ahead of forthcoming political activities.

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He expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege to contribute to the growth and development of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria and the country at large.

 

“My resignation is in strict compliance with the President’s directive requiring all political appointees to step down in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act,” the letter read.

Mr Gawuna also stated that he is placing his future “in the hands of Allah (SWT),” while seeking divine guidance on his next course of action.

He further assured of his commitment to a smooth transition process, noting that he would hand over all responsibilities in accordance with established procedures and directives.

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Sallah Thanksgiving: NUJ President Commends Kano Correspondents’ Chapel For Fostering Love, Unity Among Journalists

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The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ),
Comrade Alhassan Yahya, has commended the leadership of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, for providing platforms and occasions that foster love, unity and progress among journalists.

Comrade Yahya stated this at Kano Press Centre, on Sunday, during the 2026 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah Celebrations, Thanksgiving And Special Prayers Ceremony, organized by Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, NUJ, to appreciate God for the successful month long Ramadan fasting period and the Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations.

The NUJ National President used the occasion to urge journalists to reflect on the true meaning of the occasion and promote unity, peace, and tolerance, among themselves, in the course of their profession.

Represented by former chairman of Kano NUJ and a member of NUJ National Board of Trustees, Comrade Abbas Ibrahim, the NUJ National President, who said he has been impressed over the activities of Kano NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, within the last one year, under the leadership of Comrade Murtala Adewale, emphasized the importance of compassion, unity, and addressing national challenges, particularly food security and insecurity.

Comrade Alhassan Yahya urged other NUJ chapels to draw inspiration from Kano Correspondents’ Chapel’s unity and camaraderie, highlighting their event as a model for promoting peace and solidarity among journalists.

He encouraged other chapels to organize similar events, fostering a sense of community and cooperation, which is essential for the growth and development of the journalism profession.

In his remarks, chairman of the occasion, a Professor of Communication in Bayero University, Kano (BUK), Prof. Yakubu Mai Nasara Kurfi, described the event as not only inspiring, but heart-warming, while urging the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel leadership to sustain the tempo.

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Prof. Mai Nasara Kurfi congratulated the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel executive members for their foresight to organize the event, and promised to borrow a leaf from them as he planned to introduce such occasion in the Faculty of Communication, BUK.

The Professor of Communication also used the occasion to canvass for collaboration and synergy among the NUJ, working journalists and the Faculty of Communication, BUK, so as to ensure training and re-training of both working journalists and student journalists for enhancement of the journalism profession.

The chairman of NUJ in Kano state, Comrade Suleiman Abdullahi Dederi, who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Gambo, noted that the event was not only a Thanksgiving for the successful Ramadan and celebration of the Eid El Fitr, but a symbol of unity and togetherness among members of Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, and the larger Kano NUJ family.

“This even is so special because some of the prominent scholars and practitioners in the media are here. I want to thank and commend the leadership of the Kano Correspondents’ Chapel for organizing this event,” he said.

In his speech, chairman of NUJ Kano Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Murtala Adewale, described the event as not just a celebration, but a moment to reflect on Allah’s countless mercies—granting us the strength, patience, and opportunity to observe the holy month.

According to him: “Ramadan has been a period of spiritual renewal, sacrifice, and discipline. It has reminded us of the importance of empathy, humility, and self-restraint. As journalists, these values resonate deeply with our professional responsibilities—to be fair, truthful, and guided by integrity in all that we do.

“This gathering also serves as an avenue to strengthen our unity as members of the Chapel. In the midst of our demanding schedules and the pressures of the profession, moments like this allow us to reconnect, share, and reinforce the bond that holds us together.”

He encouraged all imbibe the lessons of Ramadan, and continue to embody patience, kindness, and responsibility, “in our daily lives and in our reportage. Our society looks up to us, and we must remain committed to promoting peace, truth, and understanding.

“I sincerely appreciate all our invited guests and well-wishers who have joined us today. Your presence is a testament to the strong relationships we have built over time, and we do not take it for granted. As we share this special breakfast, let us also remember those who are less privileged and continue to extend a helping hand, as taught during the holy month.”

The event was designed as a special Thanksgiving feast to appreciate Almighty Allah for His mercies and offer prayers for peace and progress, after a 30-day spiritual rejuvenation in the fasting month of Ramadan.

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