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‎By Egerue Chioma Jane
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‎As Nigeria’s political landscape gradually takes shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) finds itself at a critical crossroads. Once viewed as a potential platform for opposition realignment and political alternatives, the party is increasingly grappling with internal divisions, defections, leadership disputes, and legal battles that threaten its unity and electoral prospects.
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‎In recent months, the ADC has occupied a prominent place in national political discourse, not necessarily because of its policy proposals or electoral strategy, but due to controversies surrounding its leadership structure and the movement of key political figures associated with the party. These developments have raised questions about the party’s stability and readiness to compete effectively in the next electoral cycle.
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‎Political observers note that internal cohesion remains one of the most important ingredients for any party seeking electoral success. For the ADC, however, maintaining unity has become an increasingly difficult task as competing interests, legal challenges, and divergent political ambitions continue to test the party’s resilience.
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‎Among the most significant developments affecting the ADC was the departure of key political figures, including former presidential candidate Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, both of whom aligned with the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) following disagreements and uncertainties surrounding the party’s internal affairs. Their exits represented a major setback for the ADC, not only because of their political influence and national appeal but also because they reinforced public perceptions of instability within the party. The departure of such prominent figures further fueled concerns about the ADC’s ability to maintain unity and retain high-profile members ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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‎The developments quickly generated reactions across the political spectrum. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga dismissed Obi’s explanation for leaving the party, arguing that the move was motivated by political calculations rather than principle. His comments reflected the broader political contest over the narrative surrounding the ADC’s challenges and the motivations of those leaving the party.
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‎Beyond high-profile politicians, the party has also witnessed defections among lawmakers. The departure of senators and members of the House of Representatives has reinforced perceptions of internal instability and raised concerns about the ADC’s organisational strength. Such defections are often viewed as indicators of a party’s health, particularly when they occur close to major electoral contests.
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‎Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s remark that the ADC was “dead” further amplified public debate about the party’s future. Although critics dismissed the statement as partisan rhetoric, it underscored the extent to which the party’s internal struggles have become a subject of national political discussion.
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‎Despite these challenges, the ADC has continued to pursue its electoral agenda. The party announced its timetable for the 2027 primary elections and introduced revised nomination fees aimed at encouraging broader participation. Discounts for youths and women, as well as free nomination forms for persons with disabilities, were presented as measures designed to promote inclusiveness and strengthen internal democracy.
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‎The party’s presidential primary eventually produced former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as its standard-bearer for the 2027 election. While party leaders hailed the process as evidence of democratic practice within the ADC, allegations of irregularities by some contestants highlighted lingering concerns about internal trust and consensus-building.
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‎The situation confronting the ADC reflects a broader reality within Nigeria’s political system, where defections, factional disputes, and leadership contests frequently shape political fortunes. In many cases, political parties struggle to balance individual ambitions with collective interests, often resulting in crises that weaken their electoral competitiveness.
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‎For the ADC, the months ahead may prove decisive. The party’s ability to resolve its internal disputes, strengthen its institutions, and project a united front will likely determine whether it can emerge as a formidable force in 2027 or remain constrained by the challenges that currently threaten its cohesion.
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‎As the countdown to the general elections continues, the ADC’s experience serves as a reminder that electoral success depends not only on popular candidates but also on strong institutions, internal democracy, and the confidence of party members and the voting public.
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‎Egerue Chioma Jane
200 Level Student, Department of Development and Strategic Communication, University of Abuja
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By Shariff Aminu Ahlan

It is outrageous, disturbing, unimaginable, undeserved, and simply difficult to comprehend how such a high-profile and well-attended event, organized to celebrate media excellence and promote discussions on strengthening media platforms that advance the Northern agenda, could deliberately exclude the Commissioner for Information of the host state, a man widely acknowledged as one of the most competent and outstanding Information Commissioners in Northern Nigeria.

The wave of criticism that followed the event was massive and centered on several noticeable shortcomings, including poor coordination, misplaced priorities, organizational lapses, and a lack of professionalism. However, the most ironic aspect of the entire event was the deliberate exclusion of the State Commissioner for Information.

As the summit was organized under the leadership of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media, the apparent lapses and alleged collaboration with disgruntled elements pursuing hidden agendas ultimately diminished what should have been a historic gathering. Despite the presence of governor, commissioners of information from various states, media practitioners, academics, and other distinguished personalities, the event failed to make the impact many had anticipated.

To be fair, the organizers made considerable efforts to ensure the summit achieved its objectives. The discussions focused on Northern Nigeria and explored practical ways through which the media could contribute to the region’s development by promoting constructive narratives, intellectual engagement, and effective information dissemination.

Unfortunately, avoidable organizational shortcomings prevented the event from fully meeting expectations. More importantly, the exclusion of the host state’s Commissioner for Information became one of the most talked-about controversies surrounding the summit.

Had the organizers involved the Commissioner from the planning stage, his vast experience, administrative competence, and institutional knowledge could have significantly improved the coordination of the event. His contributions might have transformed the summit into a model gathering and eliminated many of the shortcomings that attracted widespread criticism.

Ironically, those blaming the Commissioner for his absence are not being fair. Such accusations only strengthen the belief that certain individuals are pursuing a carefully orchestrated agenda aimed at discrediting him. According to available information, the Commissioner was not invited to an event held within his own official domain. In keeping with professional ethics and protocol, he chose not to attend an event from which he had been deliberately excluded. The consequences of that decision. and of the organizers’ actions, were evident for everyone to see.

As for those working tirelessly to push the Commissioner into political irrelevance, they should understand that their alleged campaign has become increasingly obvious. More importantly, the Governor has continued to demonstrate confidence in him. Beyond that, the Commissioner has continued to receive recognition and commendation for his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to him.

History has repeatedly shown that competence, professionalism, and integrity ultimately outlast conspiracy, manipulation, and political scheming.

Shariff Aminu Ahlan
APC Intellectual Warrior
Realahlan0101@gmail.com

By Abba Anwar

Only advanced minds and globally exposed political leaders can think of the necessity and relevance of E-Health regulatory framework in the nation’s healthcare system.

The National E-Health Bill, 2026, presented to the Senate plenary session some weeks back, by His Excellency the Deputy Senate President, Barau I Jibrin, CFR, PhD, is a clear testimony that, this Distinguished Senator knows the right button to press when it comes to compliance with the global practice in the healthcare sector.

As the Bill passed second reading three days ago, it has become clearer that our National Assembly houses refined legislators, who behave as and are global citizens. Who understand what is obtained elsewhere across the globe in many sectors, including health.

On his Facebook page DSP disclosed that, “During today’s plenary of the Senate, my Bill, the National E-Health Bill, 2026, scaled second reading in our bid to establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for the development, regulation, coordination and integration of electronic health services in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He was supported unanimously by his Distinguished colleagues, during the plenary. After which it has been referred to the Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) for the remaining legislative process. Two weeks was given for the Committee to report back to the plenary.

To tell you that DSP is soundly familiar with the digital terrain in the healthcare sector, with deep interest and unwavering care for all Nigerians, he argued on the floor of the Senate, that, “… the healthcare sector globally is undergoing an unprecedented digital transformation. Across developed and emerging economies, digital technologies have become indispensable tools for improving healthcare delivery, expanding access to medical services, reducing costs and enhancing health outcomes.

Nations are increasingly deploying electronic medical records, telemedicine platforms, artificial intelligence, mobile health applications, electronic prescriptions, wearable health technologies and integrated health information systems to improve efficiency and quality of care.”

The above argument advanced by Senator Jibrin, tells us in broader terms and unhindered breakthrough in the thinking, action, deep philosophy and glaring global comprehension of this noble legislator in pushing for the advancement of our healthcare system. With reference to global experience.

In his added capacity as an astute administrator, a focused Pan-African legislator and a high profile researcher he was able to capture bit-by-bit reasons why digital healthcare system is a prerequisite of modern healthcare administration and management.

The attention of my readers is needed here, where he argued brilliantly that, “Nigeria cannot afford to remain on the margins of this global transformation. Despite significant investments in healthcare infrastructure and reforms over the years, our healthcare delivery system continues to face enormous challenges.

Medical records remain largely paper-based, resulting in loss of patient information, duplication of diagnostic tests, delayed treatment and avoidable medical errors. Healthcare facilities often operate in isolation, making it difficult to exchange patient information securely across institutions.”

Because of his glued attachment to the grassroot, he was able to remember that, millions of our citizens are residing in rural, underreported, hard-to-reach and underserved communities, which make them to continue facing enormous barriers in accessing specialist medical care due to shortages of healthcare professionals and geographical limitations.

As a scholar with real and genuine academic Doctorate Degree (PhD) he was able to draw a scientific curtain for the need to have regulations governing the operationalization procedures of digital healthcare. Our esteemed Digital Legislator of repute.

That was when he said, “… the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated beyond doubt that digital health technologies are no longer optional but essential components of resilient healthcare systems. During the pandemic, telemedicine, remote consultations and electronic health information systems became indispensable in maintaining continuity of healthcare services while reducing unnecessary physical contact.”

It is through proper legislation that any system strives, cements its parts, provides goodies, enhances benefits and maintains advantages. Thinking in the same way Senator Jibrin believes that, with the negation of clear legislation there is every likelihood that, what becomes the outputs are “… fragmented implementation, inconsistent standards, inadequate interoperability, weak governance structures and uncertainty regarding legal responsibilities of healthcare providers operating digital platforms.”

During his presentation or rather arguments, he behaved as if he was a medical personnel. When he raised the issue of data confidentiality and management. One of the core behavior of health workers, to safeguard the privacy and health history of patients.

Too tantalizing for a non-medical person, when he argued that, “Distinguished Colleagues, data protection remains one of the cornerstones of this legislation. Health information is among the most sensitive categories of personal information. The Bill therefore establishes robust safeguards to ensure confidentiality, integrity and security of patients’ medical records.”

Thinking from informed position ab initio, to show to all that, DSP Jibrin knew his starting point, he knows where he was heading to and knows the clear message involved in digitalizing healthcare system, with relevant stakeholders, he identified possible collaborators who are critical in the implementation of this all-important Bill.

He said, “… this Bill aligns with the Federal Government’s digital transformation agenda, the National Digital Health Strategic Framework, the National Health Act, Universal Health Coverage objectives, the Nigeria Data Protection Act and our broader commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being and Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.”

Before the Bill scaled the second reading, DSP urged his colleagues to see wisdom in the Bill and support him for its passage. Understanding the critical need for the Bill, having gone far and wide across the globe he believes that this 21st century digital era should be reflected in our healthcare sector.

In his urge to colleagues he said, “This Bill represents a bold legislative response to the realities of twenty-first-century healthcare. It provides the legal foundation necessary for building a modern, efficient, inclusive and technology-driven healthcare system that will serve present and future generations of Nigerians.
I therefore urge my Distinguished Colleagues to support this very important Bill and allow it to proceed to Second Reading.”

Anwar writes from Kano
Sunday, 12th July, 2026