TANKO'S EMERGENCE AS CAMPAIGN DG: A NEW AWAKENING OF PROGRESSIVE FORCES AND THE RETURN TO AWOLOWO'S SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC IDEALS

The South West Action Group (SWAG) – Adewole for President, welcomes the emergence of Dr. Yunusa Tanko as Director-General of Prince Adewole Adebayo's Presidential Campaign Council. We consider this a significant development in the ongoing realignment of progressive forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Tanko's emergence, particularly against the background of his prominent role in the 2023 Peter Obi presidential campaign, represents an encouraging opportunity for progressive convergence. We believe that many left cadres and activists who supported Obi in 2023 are increasingly recognising the limitations of the neoliberal economic philosophy underpinning his political proposition.

We acknowledge that support for Obi in 2023 was not entirely about his economic policies. For many Nigerians, including sections of the progressive movement and the custodians of Chief Obafemi Awolowo's political legacy, Afenifere, it was also about equity, fairness, justice and the legitimate argument that it was Ndigbo's turn to produce the President after eight years of northern presidency.

However, political equity must go beyond the ethnic or regional identity of whoever occupies the presidency. It must translate into economic justice, social welfare and a government committed to improving the material conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

A RETURN TO THE POLITICS OF THE TALAKAWAS AND MẸKUNNU

We see this emerging political realignment as an opportunity to revive the politics of the Talakawas and Mẹkunnu, historically associated with the progressive traditions of Mallam Aminu Kano and Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Their politics was rooted in social justice, mass education, accessible healthcare, workers' welfare, economic empowerment and the deployment of public resources for the benefit of the majority.

This is the ideological foundation of Afenifere's progressive tradition and the essence of social democracy.

Nigeria cannot overcome poverty and inequality through the neoliberal economic prescriptions associated with the political alternatives represented by Tinubu, Atiku and Obi. An economy cannot be considered successful when the majority of its citizens are impoverished while public services deteriorate and economic opportunities become increasingly inaccessible.

Social democracy recognises the importance of private enterprise and productivity but insists that economic growth must serve the people. It demands a developmental state that guarantees social protection, equitable opportunities, decent employment, quality education and affordable healthcare.

We believe Prince Adewole Adebayo offers a credible opportunity to reclaim this tradition and translate it into a contemporary national development programme.

THE DANGEROUS SHRINKING OF NIGERIA'S DEMOCRATIC SPACE

SWAG is deeply concerned about the growing attacks on opposition parties, activists, critical voices and independent media under the Tinubu-led APC administration.

Threats against media organisations, including suggestions that they could face closure or sanctions for publishing or broadcasting opinions critical of the APC presidency, constitute a dangerous assault on press freedom.

The media is not an extension of government publicity machinery. Its constitutional responsibility includes scrutinising those in power, exposing wrongdoing and providing platforms for dissenting opinions. No government has the right to demand political conformity as a condition for the operation of independent media organisations.

The intimidation of opposition figures, harassment of activists, obstruction of political engagements and attempts to delegitimise dissent are equally unacceptable.

Unfortunately, what many Nigerians previously regarded as a hypothesis, that President Tinubu intends to weaken opposition politics, constrict the democratic space and ultimately turn Nigeria into a de facto one party state, where he could be coronated rather than democratically elected, is increasingly becoming a disturbing reality.

Nigeria must not be reduced to a political arrangement in which the ruling party determines who can speak, organise, campaign or contest elections. The democratic space belongs to Nigerians, not the APC or the President.

THE SOWORE CASE: INEC AND IGBOKWE MUST NOT EVADE ACCOUNTABILITY

The ongoing criminal prosecution of Comrade Omoyele Sowore over his description of President Tinubu as a criminal raises serious questions about freedom of expression, political accountability and the use of state institutions.

Of particular concern are the recent developments surrounding the subpoenas issued to the Chairman of INEC, Professor Joash Amupitan, and APC chieftain, Joe Igbokwe, as defence witnesses in the proceedings before the Federal High Court.

The defence seeks relevant electoral records relating to President Tinubu's 1999 Lagos governorship candidacy and his 2023 presidential nomination, including the relevant INEC Form CF001 documents.

INEC's attempt to have the subpoena set aside, alongside the anticipated appearance of Joe Igbokwe, raises legitimate questions about the willingness of individuals and institutions to submit relevant information to judicial scrutiny.

We insist that INEC must not be seen to be shielding any political officeholder from legitimate scrutiny. The Commission is an independent constitutional institution and should demonstrate transparency, neutrality and respect for judicial processes.

Joe Igbokwe should equally honour the court's process and make himself available to provide relevant evidence. Any objections to the subpoena should be determined by the court in accordance with the law.

The Sowore case must not become an instrument for intimidating dissent or insulating public officeholders from legitimate questions. Freedom of expression and the right to challenge those in power are indispensable elements of democracy.

A MESSAGE TO THE YORUBA: AWOLOWO'S LEGACY IS ABOUT IDEOLOGY, NOT ETHNIC SENTIMENT

We appeal to Yoruba compatriots who believe that supporting a Yoruba presidential candidate in 2027 is necessary to complete the South's turn in the presidency to reconsider the larger implications of that position.

We understand the argument for regional equity. However, the Yoruba progressive political tradition, particularly that represented by Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Afenifere, was never fundamentally about the ethnic identity of political officeholders. It was about ideas, social justice, education, economic development and the welfare of the people.

Awo's legacy cannot be reduced to the proposition that a Yoruba person must occupy Aso Rock, irrespective of the political and economic philosophy such a person represents.

Prince Adewole Adebayo is a credible alternative for those who genuinely wish to preserve and advance this progressive heritage. His commitment to the actualisation of Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution, particularly its provisions on social welfare, education, healthcare, employment, equality of opportunity and economic justice, reflects the fundamental aspirations of Awo's social democratic philosophy.

The question before Yoruba people and Nigerians generally should therefore be: what kind of government will serve the people, rather than whose ethnic group occupies the presidency?

BUILDING A BROADER PROGRESSIVE MOVEMENT

SWAG warmly welcomes Comrades Toyin Raheem, Wale Okunniyi, Mark Adebayo and other progressive-minded individuals into the growing movement around Prince Adewole Adebayo.

We particularly appeal to Comrade Debo Adeniran to translate his evident sympathy for this progressive alternative into active participation, practical support and sustained commitment, just as Comrade Shina Loremikan, the SDP South West Zonal Publicity Secretary, has demonstrated through his active engagement.

The task before us is bigger than supporting an individual presidential candidate. It is to rebuild a formidable progressive movement capable of challenging neoliberal economic policies, defending democratic freedoms and restoring government to its fundamental responsibility to the people.

SWAG calls on progressive Yoruba people, social democrats, labour activists, pro-democracy campaigners, intellectuals and all Nigerians committed to social justice to unite behind this alternative.

The 2027 elections must be about ideology, economic justice, democratic accountability and the future of our country, not merely ethnic calculations and the competition among privileged political elites.

Social democracy is the way forward. Prince Adewole Adebayo represents a credible opportunity to reclaim the progressive ideals of Awolowo and Aminu Kano.

Signed:

Comrade Wale Balogun

Coordinator

South West Action Group (SWAG)

Independent Campaign Group – Adewole for President

WHERE IS OUR MONEY? SDP DEMANDS ACCOUNTABILITY OVER ALLEGED ₦180 BILLION CAMPAIGN SPENDING IN OSUN

The Social Democratic Party (SDP), Osun State Chapter, has demanded explanations from the Osun State Government, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party over allegations of ₦180 billion in campaign expenditure during the 2026 governorship election, raising concerns about political spending, local government administration and the state's financial performance.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its State Secretary, Bolanle Abraham Abayomi, the party questioned reports that the Accord Party had accused the APC of spending ₦110 billion on the election, while the APC reportedly alleged that Accord spent ₦70 billion.

The SDP said the combined allegations, amounting to ₦180 billion, raised serious questions about the sources and purposes of such enormous campaign funds, particularly against the backdrop of concerns about vote-buying and the monetisation of Nigeria's electoral process.

The party challenged both political parties to explain how the alleged sums were raised and what they were spent on, questioning whether the expenditure could reasonably be attributed to campaign materials, publicity, jingles, social media advertisements and other legitimate electioneering activities.

It also expressed concern over the controversy surrounding local government administration in the state, particularly the existence of competing sets of local government chairmen and councillors.

Osun State has 30 constitutionally recognised Local Government Areas and 332 electoral wards. Using assumed monthly earnings of ₦1 million for each chairman and ₦600,000 for each councillor, the SDP estimated that maintaining two sets of chairmen and councillors would amount to approximately ₦458.4 million monthly, or about ₦5.5 billion annually.

The party, however, clarified that the calculation was illustrative and did not represent verified figures of actual salaries or payments made by the state government.

According to the SDP, the financial implications of the disputed local government structures require urgent public scrutiny, especially as the state grapples with other outstanding financial obligations.

The party further expressed concern over reports that traditional rulers in Osun State were owed seven months of salaries, questioning why public officials and traditional institutions should remain unpaid while allegations of enormous financial resources being deployed for political contests continue to dominate public discourse.

Adding to its concerns, the SDP cited a recent fiscal performance assessment by BudgIT, which reportedly ranked Osun State 32nd among 35 states assessed. It described the ranking as a troubling indication of the need for improved fiscal management, transparency and responsible utilisation of public resources.

The party consequently called on the Osun State Government, the APC and the Accord Party to provide explanations on the alleged ₦110 billion and ₦70 billion campaign expenditures, including the sources and application of the funds.

It also demanded transparency regarding the financial implications of maintaining competing local government structures, the actual obligations incurred by the state in local government administration, outstanding salaries owed to traditional rulers and other public servants, and measures being taken to improve the state's fiscal performance.

The SDP maintained that the controversy should not be dismissed as ordinary political disagreement, insisting that public resources and political financing are matters of legitimate public interest.

"Public money is not the personal property of politicians, political parties or government officials. It belongs to the people," the party declared.

It added that the conclusion of the governorship election should not mark the end of public scrutiny, stressing that elected officials, political parties and government institutions must remain accountable to the people.

"Elections have ended, but accountability must not end with elections. The people of Osun deserve answers. Where is our money?" the statement asked.

The party's demands have brought renewed attention to questions surrounding campaign financing, the cost of governance and the management of public resources in Osun State.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the APC, the Accord Party nor the Osun State Government had issued an official response to the allegations and questions raised by the SDP.

The Coalition Against Corruption and Bad Governance (CACOBAG) has thrown its weight behind the African Action Congress (AAC) and its presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, in their request to use the Presidential Villa

The Coalition Against Corruption and Bad Governance (CACOBAG) has thrown its weight behind the African Action Congress (AAC) and its presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, in their request to use the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, Abuja, for the inauguration of the party’s Presidential Campaign Council scheduled for November 11, 2026.

The coalition also condemned the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, for describing Sowore as a “skit maker” and a “political comedian,” describing the remarks as derogatory and undemocratic.

In a press release dated October 22, 2026, and jointly signed by its Chairman, Toyin Raheem, and Secretary, Comrade Idowu Taiwo, CACOBAG said the AAC’s request was legitimate and should be granted without discrimination.

The organisation noted that the request followed the reported use of the State House Conference Centre within the Presidential Villa for the inauguration of the APC Campaign Council on October 14, 2026.

CACOBAG questioned why the ruling party should be allowed to use a facility within the Presidential Villa for its political activities while opposition parties could potentially be denied similar access.

“Does Aso Villa belong to APC? Does it belong to Tinubu personally? No. It belongs to all Nigerians,” the coalition stated, arguing that the facility was built, furnished and maintained with public funds.

According to the group, allowing the ruling party exclusive access to a public facility for political activities could amount to preferential treatment, political discrimination and what it described as attitudinal corruption.

It maintained that the principle of equal treatment should apply to all registered political parties seeking to use public facilities under comparable conditions.

Reacting to Basiru’s description of Sowore as a “skit maker” and “political comedian,” CACOBAG defended the AAC leader’s political activism and criticism of the government.

The coalition argued that speaking truth to power, defending the oppressed, exposing corruption and raising concerns about Nigeria’s development should not be grounds for ridicule.

“If to consistently speak truth to power, to defend the oppressed, to expose corruption and to make valid, patriotic points on the development of Nigeria is to be a political comedian, then yes, Sowore is a political comedian whom Nigerians love and respect,” the statement read.

CACOBAG further claimed that Sowore enjoyed considerable public support because he articulated concerns that many Nigerians were unable to express openly.

The coalition cited Sections 40 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, in support of its arguments concerning freedom of association and protection against discrimination.

It also referenced Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, arguing that state apparatus and public facilities should not be used to favour or disadvantage any political party or candidate.

CACOBAG further invoked the constitutional principles that sovereignty belongs to the people and that the security and welfare of citizens should be the primary purpose of government.

The organisation compared Nigeria’s situation with political practices in the United States, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Ghana, arguing that public institutions should not be treated as the private property of ruling parties.

It called on the Nigerian government to uphold fairness and prevent the country from sliding towards a one-party state

CACOBAG also challenged Basiru to advise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to walk through the streets of Lagos, Iragbiji or Abuja alongside Sowore without security personnel, arguing that such an encounter would reveal their respective levels of public acceptance.

The coalition further alleged that Tinubu would struggle to mobilise genuine public support without monetary inducements, insisting that Nigerians were increasingly demanding systemic change.

It also criticised the administration’s policies, describing them as harsh and anti-people, and recalled warnings attributed to the late elder statesman Pa Ayo Adebanjo ahead of the 2023 general elections.

CACOBAG maintained that extending Tinubu’s tenure for another 20 years would not produce positive outcomes for Nigeria, a position it expressed as part of its broader criticism of the administration.

The coalition outlined three major demands in its statement.

First, it called on the Presidency to grant Sowore and the AAC access to the Presidential Villa for the inauguration of their campaign council without imposing additional conditions.

Second, it demanded that other registered political parties seeking to use the same facility be given equal access under comparable conditions.

Third, it urged Basiru to withdraw his remarks against Sowore and apologise to Nigerian youths and democrats.

Reaffirming its position, CACOBAG declared that the Presidential Villa belongs to all Nigerians and should be administered in a manner that reflects fairness, democratic principles and equal treatment.

ADC Alimosho Raises Alarm Over Attack on Ward M1, Names Orelope, Ejibadero and De Royal as Alleged Masterminds

Chief Adeyinka Odukoya condemns attack on party members as ADC leadership promises investigation, support for victims and stronger security measures.

Tension has reportedly gripped the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State following an attack on members of Ward M1 on Thursday, October 22, 2026.

The attack reportedly left several members injured, while personal belongings were allegedly stolen and chairs and other sitting materials destroyed.

In a press statement issued on Friday, October 23, the Chairman of the ADC Alimosho Local Government Management Team, Chief Adeyinka Odukoya, condemned the incident and identified Joke Orelope, Ejibadero and De Royal as alleged masterminds of the attack.

The allegations, as contained in the party chairman's statement, have not been independently verified. The statement provided to this publication did not include responses from the individuals named.

How the Incident Unfolded

According to Odukoya, he was accompanying the ADC Alimosho executives and party candidates on a tour of Ward D and Ward M2 when he received the report of the attack.

He said he immediately contacted the state chairman and relevant security agencies to ensure a prompt response and prevent further incidents.

Odukoya later led members of his entourage, alongside House of Assembly Constituency I candidate Ojogbon Gideon Adeniran and House of Representatives candidate Hon. Ola Olusola Motunrayo, to the affected ward and the police station.

They met with the Ward M1 chairman and some members, including women. Members who had sustained injuries and were still present received attention.

The party leadership said it had initiated further security measures to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack and determine those responsible.

Orelope, Ejibadero and De Royal Named in Party Chairman's Statement

A major development in the incident is the allegation contained in Odukoya's press statement naming Joke Orelope, Ejibadero and De Royal as the alleged masterminds.

The allegation raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the attack and the security of party members in Alimosho.

However, the allegation remains an allegation and should not be treated as proof of responsibility. An impartial investigation is necessary to establish what happened, identify any individuals involved and determine whether any offence was committed.

The responses of the individuals named were not included in the statement available to this publication.

ADC Plans Support for Affected Members

Beyond condemning the incident, the ADC Alimosho leadership has outlined measures intended to address the losses suffered by affected members.

Odukoya directed the Ward M1 executives to prepare a comprehensive inventory of missing personal belongings and damaged property. The report will be submitted to the state chairman to facilitate appropriate intervention and support.

An emergency meeting involving party elders, leaders, local government executives and ward chairmen was scheduled for Friday, October 23.

The meeting is expected to discuss the welfare of injured members, possible assistance for those who suffered losses, and measures to prevent a recurrence.

The party also plans to examine ways to improve security across its 11 wards and 36 LASIEC wards, including appropriate engagement with conventional and non-conventional security outfits.

Odukoya Reaffirms Commitment to Members' Safety

The ADC Alimosho chairman assured party members that their safety and welfare remained a priority.

He pledged that the leadership would take reasonable steps to protect members, cooperate with relevant security agencies and pursue appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.

The party also called on members to remain calm, vigilant and united as efforts continue to establish the facts surrounding the incident.

The Need for a Credible Investigation

The reported attack underscores the importance of protecting political party members from violence, intimidation and the destruction of property.

Regardless of internal disagreements or political differences, party members must be able to assemble and participate in lawful political activities without fear for their safety.

The immediate priorities are to ensure that injured members receive appropriate care, document losses, investigate the attack and establish responsibility through credible evidence.

With the party chairman's statement naming three individuals as alleged masterminds, the attention now turns to the relevant security agencies and any further evidence that may clarify the allegations.

The outcome of a fair and impartial investigation will be essential to establishing the facts and ensuring that any person found responsible is held accountable in accordance with the law.

AYEGBAJU INTERNATIONAL MARKET MUST SERVE THE PEOPLE, NOT PRIVILEGED INTERESTS

The recent visit of the Osun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo, to Ayegbaju International Market raises serious concerns about the direction of market administration and the welfare of ordinary traders.

Ayegbaju Market was established to promote commerce, expand trading opportunities and improve the livelihoods of market men and women, particularly ordinary traders whose economic survival depends on affordable access to stalls and shops. It must not become an avenue for displacing the poor while politically connected individuals benefit from the conversion and reallocation of public commercial facilities.

The market was developed under the administration of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola and commissioned in July 2014 as part of a wider effort to restore Osogbo's commercial importance. Its facilities included open stalls, mini-stalls, meat and fish sections, warehouses and cold rooms. These provisions reflected the market's intended commercial purpose and the need to accommodate different categories of traders.

Against this background, the reported demolition of kiosks without transparent guarantees of alternative trading spaces is deeply troubling. Removing traders' means of livelihood while allegedly reallocating spaces and stalls to favoured individuals is not market reform; it is a potential transfer of economic opportunity from the vulnerable to the privileged. Government must publish the criteria governing allocation, reallocation and any proposed demolition.

Even more disturbing are concerns that structures originally intended for trading are being altered or converted into factories for salt production and sales, reportedly benefiting interests connected to those exercising authority over the market. These allegations require an independent investigation, full disclosure of approvals and contracts, and clarification of who owns or controls the facilities concerned. Public commercial infrastructure must not be appropriated for private advantage.

The displacement of traders in the fish and meat sections would compound the hardship already confronting small-scale traders and their families. These are livelihoods, not disposable structures. Any reorganisation must protect existing occupants, provide suitable alternative spaces before displacement, and ensure that affected traders are not priced out of the market.

The Commissioner's invocation of Governor Ademola Adeleke's name and the traders' electoral support for his administration cannot substitute for accountability. Government exists to protect citizens' interests, not to use political loyalty as justification for policies that may undermine their economic survival.

We therefore call on Governor Ademola Adeleke to urgently:

1.  Suspend further demolitions and structural conversions pending an independent review.

2.  Publish the records of stall allocations and reassignments.

3.  Investigate allegations of preferential treatment and private appropriation of public assets.

4.  Ensure that displaced traders receive suitable alternative spaces before any further action.

Ayegbaju International Market is a public economic asset whose administration must be guided by transparency, fairness and social justice. The promise of government must be measured not by official visits or assurances, but by whether ordinary people can earn a living with dignity.

Governor Adeleke must ensure that Ayegbaju remains a market for the people, not a preserve for privileged interests.

Signed:

Comrade Wale Balogun

Convener, Mẹkunnu Kọya

16/10/2026

Fuel Relief Is Not Living Dignity: GAFAMORG Calls for Living Wage and Stronger Social Protection

The Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Organization (GAFAMORG) has called on the Federal Government to move beyond temporary fuel-related relief measures and adopt a sustainable economic framework built around a Living Wage, accessible public services and comprehensive social protection.

In a statement addressing Nigeria’s escalating cost-of-living crisis, the organisation expressed support for the legitimate demands of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), urging the government to take urgent, concrete and transparent measures to protect workers, pensioners, informal-sector workers and struggling households.

GAFAMORG noted that rising fuel prices have consequences far beyond the cost of transportation, contributing to higher food prices and increasing the cost of housing, healthcare, education and other essential services.

According to the organisation, temporary palliatives may provide short-term relief but cannot resolve the structural problems undermining household incomes and living standards.

Minimum Wage Must Reflect the Cost of Living

GAFAMORG stressed the distinction between a National Minimum Wage, which establishes a legal wage floor, and a Living Wage, which should enable workers to afford decent food, secure housing, transportation, healthcare, education and other essential needs for themselves and their families.

The organisation maintained that wage negotiations should be informed by verified living costs and assessed according to the purchasing power of workers, rather than the nominal amount announced.

It called for evidence-based minimum-wage negotiations, regular and predictable wage reviews, stronger enforcement of wage laws and collective agreements, and a clear, time-bound pathway towards a Living Wage.

Six-Point Agenda for Economic Dignity

The organisation outlined six priority demands:

1. Immediate and transparent relief: Effective measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel and living costs.

2. Evidence-based wage negotiations: Wage reviews grounded in current and verifiable household expenditure.

3. A pathway to a Living Wage: Time-bound measures supported by collective bargaining and regular wage reviews.

4. Enforcement of labour rights: Stronger implementation of minimum-wage laws and collective agreements across public and private sectors.

5. A comprehensive Social Wage: Improved access to affordable healthcare, quality public education, transportation, housing support, adequate pensions and protection against unemployment, disability and workplace injuries.

6. Inclusive protection: Policies that recognise the needs of formal-sector workers, informal workers, self-employed Nigerians and pensioners.

GAFAMORG emphasised that a Living Wage and a Social Wage must advance together. While the former concerns the income workers earn, the latter encompasses essential public services and social protections that reduce the financial burden on households.

The organisation argued that the effectiveness of economic policy should ultimately be measured by whether ordinary Nigerians can afford basic necessities without being trapped in persistent anxiety and financial insecurity.

GAFAMORG Launches People's Living Dignity Test 2026

As part of its public advocacy, GAFAMORG announced the People's Living Dignity Test 2026, a voluntary questionnaire designed to gather citizens' experiences of wages, living costs, access to public services and social protection.

The organisation explained that the initiative is intended to amplify the voices of ordinary Nigerians and encourage wider public participation in discussions about workers' welfare and economic policy. It clarified that the questionnaire is not a substitute for official statistics or academic research.

GAFAMORG called on the NLC, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), other labour organisations, employers, professional associations, informal workers, pensioners, civil society organisations, community leaders, academics, journalists and members of the public to support and circulate the questionnaire.

Members of the public can participate through the official People's Living Dignity Test 2026 questionnaire: [Insert verified questionnaire link here].

The organisation encouraged Nigerians to complete the questionnaire, share it within their communities and workplaces, and mobilise their unions and associations to participate.

Beyond Temporary Concessions

GAFAMORG concluded that Nigeria needs a long-term economic framework that protects purchasing power, improves access to essential services and guarantees greater economic security for workers and their families.

It reiterated that lasting economic dignity requires more than temporary concessions, calling for coordinated action on wages, pensions, public services and social protection.

The statement ended with the organisation's commitment to its founding ideals:

“GAFAMORG — For the Voiceless and Defenceless! Remembering Gani by Continuing His Struggle.”

Groups Accuse INEC, APC of Undermining Electoral Credibility Ahead of 2027 Polls

CACOBAG, CDJ demand restoration of omitted candidates, review of electoral provisions

The Coalition Against Corruption and Bad Governance (CACOBAG) and the Centre for Democracy and Justice (CDJ) have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Assembly and the judiciary to address controversies surrounding the final list of candidates for the 2027 general elections.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, October 12, 2026, the organisations alleged that the omission of candidates, disputed party-primary outcomes and restrictive membership registration requirements could undermine political participation and public confidence in the elections.

They accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), President Bola Tinubu’s administration and INEC of actions they said could disadvantage opposition parties. The allegations represent the groups’ position and were not independently established by the statement.

The concerns come amid reported disputes over candidates omitted from INEC’s published lists. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for instance, has confirmed that it is engaging the commission over the exclusion of some of its candidates, including Ladi Adebutu in Ogun State and Isa Pantami in Gombe State. <Cite refs={["turn525173search1","turn525173search2"]}/>

Disputed nominations and candidate omissions

The groups cited cases involving candidates from several political parties, including the PDP, NDC, ADC, NNPP, Labour Party, APM and ADP, arguing that the controversy extends beyond a single party.

They also alleged irregularities in the APC’s handling of its primaries in Lagos State, specifically citing Hon. Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi, whom they said won the party’s primary for Agege Constituency I with 9,132 votes but was subsequently replaced. They further alleged similar impositions in Alimosho and Ikeja.

CACOBAG and CDJ called for the publication of primary-election results and video recordings held by INEC, arguing that these records would help establish whether the nominations and subsequent substitutions complied with the law.

However, the reasons for individual omissions and the circumstances surrounding the disputed nominations must be assessed against INEC’s records, relevant court decisions and responses from the political parties concerned.

Electoral law and membership registration

The organisations also challenged provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 governing party membership registers and participation in primaries.

Section 77(5) of the Act provides that only party members whose names appear on a membership register submitted to INEC at least 21 days before a primary, congress or convention may participate in the exercise. Related provisions restrict the use of alternative registers and prescribe consequences for failure to submit the required register. <Cite refs={["turn525173search2","turn525173search4"]}/>

The groups argued that these requirements could exclude prospective party members, particularly those facing barriers to digital access, registration costs and verification procedures. They also criticised INEC’s reported online registration policy, saying it could disproportionately affect low-income citizens.

Their objections come despite a September 2026 Supreme Court decision upholding the challenged statutory membership-register provisions. The organisations maintained that the provisions should nevertheless be reviewed, arguing that they could restrict internal party democracy and political participation. <Cite refs={["turn525173search2","turn525173search3"]}/>

Calls for transparency and accountability

The groups accused INEC of inconsistency in its handling of candidate nominations and qualification-related complaints. They urged the commission to explain the basis for disputed omissions and substitutions and to apply electoral rules transparently across all political parties.

They also criticised provisions they said could restrict post-election challenges involving alleged certificate forgery, falsification, impersonation and perjury, arguing that electoral timelines should not shield criminal conduct from lawful investigation.

The statement urged the National Assembly to reconsider provisions the organisations consider restrictive and called on the judiciary to ensure that electoral disputes are resolved in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.

CACOBAG and CDJ appealed to pro-democracy and civil society organisations, including the United Action for Democracy, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, SERAP, CISLAC and Transition Monitoring Group, to engage the issues. They also called on the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress to defend democratic participation.

Four demands

The organisations presented four principal demands:

1. Restoration of candidates: INEC should restore candidates whom the groups believe were validly nominated but unlawfully excluded.
2. Publication of records: The commission should release results and video recordings of monitored party primaries, particularly the Labour Party primaries in Lagos State.
3. Review of electoral provisions: The National Assembly should repeal or amend provisions the groups consider restrictive of party membership and judicial scrutiny of alleged certificate forgery.
4. Judicial protection: Courts should scrutinise disputed candidate substitutions and ensure compliance with applicable legal requirements.

The statement was signed by CACOBAG Chairman, Prince Toyin Raheem; the organisation’s Publicity Secretary, Pastor Olutola Folorunsho; and CDJ Acting Secretary, Comrade Bello Bello.

The groups said their intervention was not intended to endorse any political party or candidate but to protect the right of Nigerians to make their electoral choices freely.

They warned that unresolved disputes over nominations, membership registration and the application of electoral laws could weaken confidence in the 2027 elections, urging electoral authorities and political parties to address the controversies through transparent and lawful procedures.