‘I’m Not Stepping Down’ — Zakari-Ola Sends Strong Message to Rivals

Ustaz Abubakar Zakari-Ola has officially joined the widening contest for the Kogi West Senatorial District seat, declaring his readiness for a fierce primary battle as political activities gather momentum.
Zakari-Ola made his position clear shortly after submitting his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, insisting he remains fully committed to the race and will not bow to pressure for any consensus arrangement.
“I’ve come this far, and I’m prepared to face the primaries,” he stated firmly, shutting down speculation about a possible withdrawal.
The senatorial hopeful outlined infrastructure as the cornerstone of his campaign, singling out the Abuja–Kokoja road as a critical project requiring urgent intervention. He described the road as being in a deplorable state, stressing that fixing it would be his top legislative priority.
“The Abuja–Kokoja road is a serious concern, and it will be the first matter I pursue in the Senate, by God’s grace,” Zakari-Ola said.
He explained that his decision to enter the race was driven by the need to confront pressing developmental challenges in Kogi West, particularly poor infrastructure hindering mobility and economic growth.
On the mode of selecting the party’s candidate, Zakari-Ola acknowledged both direct primaries and consensus as viable options but warned against imposing consensus on aspirants.
“Consensus cannot be imposed. It has to be accepted by everyone,” he said, reiterating his resolve to stay in the race regardless of the outcome of internal negotiations.
He also hinted at confidence in the process, suggesting that indications point toward the adoption of direct primaries.
With his declaration, Ustaz Abubakar Zakari-Ola joins a growing list of aspirants jostling for the Kogi West senatorial ticket, setting the stage for what could be an intense and closely watched primary contest.

ADC Releases Updated Primary Election Schedule, Revised Nomination Fees

ADC releases updated primary election schedule and revised nomination fees — Announces new dates and adjusted fees following stakeholder consultations

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released an updated schedule of activities for its 2026 primary elections, alongside revised costs for nomination forms, following extensive consultations with party leaders, aspirants, and stakeholders across the country.

Under the updated timetable, the purchase and submission of completed forms will run from May 6 to May 13, 2026, with May 13 set as the final deadline for submission. Screening of aspirants is scheduled for May 14 and May 15, 2026, with the publication of screening results on May 17, 2026. Appeals will be heard between May 18 and May 19, 2026, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 20, 2026.

Primary elections for State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and the Senate will be held on May 21, 2026, followed by governorship primaries on May 22, 2026. The presidential primary election is scheduled for May 23, 2026. This will be followed by the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 25, 2026, and the Special National Convention on May 26, 2026.

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Additionally, following the review, the cost of nomination forms has been set at N90,000,000 for the presidential ticket, N30,000,000 for governorship, N10,000,000 for Senate, N5,000,000 for the House of Representatives, and N2,000,000 for State Houses of Assembly.

The party retains its concessionary framework, providing a 50 percent discount for youth aspirants between the ages of 18 and 35, and a 25 percent discount for women and persons living with disabilities.

ADC

These adjustments reflect the outcome of broad-based consultations aimed at strengthening internal democracy, improving access, and ensuring that the ADC continues to provide a credible and inclusive platform for political participation.

All aspirants and stakeholders are advised to take note of the updated schedule and revised fees, and to comply fully with all guidelines as published. The ADC remains committed to organising effectively and presenting credible candidates to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Signed,
MALLAM BOLAJI ABDULLAHI
NATIONAL PUBLICITY SECRETARY
African Democratic Congress (ADC)

ICPC Opposes Fresh Bail Application By El-Rufai As Court Adjourns Hearing To May 13

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has filed a counter-affidavit in opposition to a fresh bail application filed by the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, in the ongoing case before the Kaduna State High Court.

At the resumed hearing of the matter on Tuesday, counsel to the defendant, Mr Ubong Akpang, informed the court of a pending bail application, emphasising that it concerns the defendant’s liberty.

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He further stated that all necessary processes had been duly filed and served, expressing readiness to proceed with the hearing.

However, counsel to the ICPC, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, informed the court that he had only just been served with the defendant’s further affidavit in support of the bail application and would require time to study the new processes.

Following this development, the Honourable Court adjourned the matter to 13th May 2026 for the hearing of the bail application.

It would be recalled that the court had earlier declined to grant bail to Mallam El-Rufai in a previous application.

Honourable Justice D.H. Khobo held that the defendant had not filed a further affidavit to challenge the ICPC’s counter-affidavit, which raised new facts.

These facts included the likelihood of flight risk due to his influence and resources, alleged obstruction of lawful arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, refusal to surrender travel documents and devices for investigation, and concerns over potential interference with witnesses and evidence.

In its determination, the court emphasised that bail is discretionary and must serve the interests of justice.

Justice Khobo held that the Defendant’s high status could facilitate interference with ongoing investigations, especially as some suspects remain at large.

The court had further noted the Defendant’s failure to challenge key allegations in the prosecution’s counter-affidavit, thereby deeming them admitted, and had dismissed unsubstantiated health claims for lack of evidence.

Consequently, the court refused bail to the Defendant; he is to remain in ICPC custody pending the commencement of the trial, and ordered an accelerated hearing.

El-Rufai

Notwithstanding this, the defence team proceeded to file a fresh application for bail.

The ICPC has since filed its response opposing the latest bail application and remains committed to ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the law.

The Commission assures the public of its continued dedication to the diligent prosecution of corruption cases and the upholding of due process.

J. Okor Odey

Head, Media and Public Communications Unit (ICPC).