By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The chairmanship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Dr. Moses Paul, has attributed the low voter turnout in Saturday’s area council elections to the confusion caused by the nationwide movement restriction order.

Dr. Paul, who spoke to journalists shortly after casting his vote at his polling unit, also raised allegations of intimidation against his party’s agents in several wards.

Describing the situation in parts of the capital city as resembling a “state of emergency,” the candidate expressed dismay at the process. “The turnout is nothing compared to what we expected,” Dr. Paul stated. “Having lived in AMAC for about 40 years, I have never witnessed this kind of scenario. The movement restriction directive created a lot of confusion, which I believe is unwarranted.”

While critical of the overall conduct of the election, the candidate commended the presiding officers at his specific polling unit for their professionalism and strict adherence to due process.

However, he painted a troubling picture of events elsewhere in the council. He alleged that ADC agents in areas such as Takum Shara and parts of Kabusa Ward—including Dogongada and Shereti—were threatened and intimidated, preventing them from properly monitoring the process.

Furthermore, Dr. Paul condemned the prevalence of vote-buying, describing it as a “criminal act” and alleging that the practice was openly taking place in various parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

Despite these challenges, the candidate remained optimistic about his chances. “The will of the people will prevail,” he asserted. “I am confident of emerging victorious. My message to Nigerians is to resist all forms of intimidation and to demand accountability from their leaders.”

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Thursday convened a strategic meeting with civil society organisations to discuss issues affecting the state and strengthen collaboration with the government.

During the engagement, the commissioner briefed participants on the ongoing initiatives of the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf, noting that civil society groups play a critical role in governance and policy development.

Waiya reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that civil society actors remain key partners in promoting sustainable development across Kano.

He described civil society organisations as an important constituency, emphasizing the need to deepen partnerships, sustain open communication, and build stronger cooperation between government institutions and non-state actors.

Participants at the meeting described the session as interactive and forward-looking, as stakeholders exchanged ideas on policy priorities and strategies aimed at advancing development in the state.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by both the government and civil society groups to continue working together in promoting transparency, accountability, and development initiatives in Kano State.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious concerns over an alleged plot by the government to arrest a prominent leader of the party and former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

The party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chief Luckyman Egila, made the allegation during an interview with LEADERSHIP in Port Harcourt on Friday. He claimed that the ADC, positioning itself as a leading opposition force, has become a primary target of the administration.

Responding to questions about widespread speculation regarding Mr. Amaechi’s potential arrest, Egila stated that such rumours are credible within the nation’s current political context.

“While it may be termed a rumour, we are in a political arena where such possibilities cannot be dismissed,” Egila said. He drew a parallel to a recent incident involving a key opposition figure, adding, “We must recall that Nasir El-Rufai was recently detained by the Department of State Services (DSS). It appears they are systematically targeting anyone perceived as opposition.”

Egila elaborated on the ADC’s self-perceived role in the national political landscape, suggesting that its growing influence is the motive behind the alleged plot.

“As things stand in Nigeria today, the African Democratic Congress is emerging as the main opposition political party capable of challenging the ruling party. We cannot simply write this off as a baseless rumour; there is a deliberate scheme to incapacitate anyone with the capacity to oppose or defeat them in an election.”

Despite the serious allegations, Egila was careful to reaffirm the party’s commitment to lawful conduct. He noted that while the party has received intelligence regarding the purported plan, the specifics of the operation—whether it would be a public arrest or a covert action—remain unclear.

“The African Democratic Congress is a law-abiding political party,” Egila stated. “We are aware of the intelligence suggesting this move, but we do not know if they intend to apprehend him publicly or through other means.”