Peter Obi: Those Seeking to Be Addressed as “His Excellency” Must Behave Excellently

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on political candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Obi made the call after joining other presidential candidates to sign the first National Peace Accord for the 2027 Presidential Elections.

The NDC presidential candidate said his decision to sign the accord reinforced his commitment to ensuring that candidates conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the offices they aspire to occupy.

He urged political leaders to reject violent rhetoric and take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters.

“Leaders must eschew all forms of violent rhetoric and rein in their followers to do the same,” Obi said.

According to him, the 2027 election should focus on issues directly affecting Nigerians, including national unity, insecurity, poverty, the rising number of out-of-school children and the need to restore hope to citizens.

Obi also urged supporters of all political parties to recognise the commitment made by the candidates to free, fair and credible elections based on issues and devoid of rancour.

He stressed that those seeking public office must demonstrate the qualities expected of the offices they want to occupy.

“Those of us wishing to be addressed as ‘His Excellency’ must behave excellently, and, more importantly, the process of attaining public office must be excellent,” he said.

The NDC candidate said his party takes seriously the commitment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free, fair and credible elections.

He also noted the pledge by law enforcement agencies to remain unbiased throughout the electioneering process.

Obi called on his supporters to remain peaceful and determined as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

“I call on my supporters to remain firm, determined, and peaceful,” he said.

He concluded his message with his familiar political slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”

Obi became the NDC’s presidential candidate after the party formally affirmed him as its flagbearer at its special convention in May 2026. He later named Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso as his running mate for the 2027 election. 

Tinubu Congratulates Adeleke on Osun Victory, Says Election Reflects Will of the People

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on his re-election in the just-concluded governorship election.

Tinubu said Adeleke’s victory reflected the choice of Osun voters and described the outcome as a positive sign for the continued growth of democracy in Nigeria.

The President disclosed that he personally called Adeleke earlier on Sunday to congratulate him on his victory.

According to Tinubu, the result demonstrated the confidence Osun residents placed in the governor and expressed hope that Adeleke would use his second term to unite the people of the state.

“I wish him great success as he prepares to lead the state for the next four years,” Tinubu said.

The President urged Adeleke to reach out to residents across political divides and work towards the growth, stability and social and economic development of Osun State, regardless of how they voted during the election.

Tinubu also commended the other candidates who participated in the election, praising what he described as their courage and discipline throughout the electoral contest.

He said the participation of the various candidates contributed to Nigeria’s democratic culture and that the outcome of the election represented the will of the people.

“The outcome of the election reflects the will of the people and is a fitting assurance that democracy will continue to flourish in our land,” the President said.

Tinubu also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies for what he described as a peaceful and transparent election that produced a clear winner.

The President’s comments come after Adeleke secured re-election in the Osun governorship election, defeating his major challengers to retain control of the state for another four-year term.

He called on Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions and expressed hope that the country’s democracy would become stronger.

“May our democracy continue to thrive and be strengthened,” Tinubu added.

Atiku Asks Court to Disqualify Tinubu From 2027 Presidential Election Over NYSC Certificate

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the disqualification of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from contesting the 2027 presidential election.

Atiku personally appeared at the Federal High Court on Friday, August 14, where he deposed to an affidavit in support of the case challenging Tinubu’s eligibility to contest the next presidential election. The suit also lists the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as defendants. 

The case centres on an alleged discrepancy involving an NYSC discharge certificate said to have been submitted by Tinubu to INEC in connection with the 2023 and 2027 presidential elections.

According to Atiku and the ADC, the disputed certificate bears the name “Tinubu Bola Adekunle”, which they contend differs from the President’s name, “Bola Ahmed Tinubu.” 

The plaintiffs are asking the court to determine whether the alleged submission of the disputed certificate constitutes a ground for Tinubu’s disqualification from the 2027 presidential election.

Atiku’s legal action comes as the opposition continues to challenge Tinubu’s eligibility and credentials ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.

The suit also reportedly seeks access to documents relating to Tinubu’s electoral filings, including his Form CF001 submitted to INEC for the relevant elections. 

The former vice president has maintained that the matter should be determined through evidence and the judicial process rather than political arguments.

The legal challenge adds a fresh dimension to the contest between Atiku and Tinubu, who faced each other in the 2023 presidential election. Atiku is now seeking the presidency again under the ADC platform ahead of the 2027 election.

Beyond the certificate controversy, Atiku’s legal team is also challenging aspects of the Electoral Act 2026, arguing that ordinary legislation cannot override constitutional provisions concerning eligibility to contest the presidency. 

The case is expected to generate significant political and legal attention as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections.

However, the allegations contained in the suit remain claims before the court and have not been established as facts. Any decision on Tinubu’s eligibility will ultimately depend on the court’s determination after hearing the parties and examining the evidence presented.

Tinubu Urges Peaceful Osun Election, Says Every Vote Must Count

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on residents of Osun State to participate peacefully in Saturday’s governorship election, urging all stakeholders to protect the integrity of the electoral process.

In a statement ahead of the August 15 poll, Tinubu called on political parties, security agencies, electoral officials and voters to play their part in ensuring a peaceful, transparent, free and fair election.

The President said he had directed the Inspector-General of Police and the heads of security agencies deployed to Osun to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials and election materials throughout the election.

He stressed that no Nigerian should be prevented from exercising their constitutional right to vote because of fear, intimidation or violence.

“Every citizen must be able to exercise his or her right to vote without fear, intimidation or violence. There must be no room for anyone seeking to disrupt the process or undermine the peace of Osun State,” Tinubu said.

The President also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct the election professionally and with integrity, stressing the importance of ensuring that every lawful vote is properly recorded.

“Every vote must count. Every lawful vote must be properly recorded,” he said.

Tinubu described the Osun governorship election as the final off-cycle governorship election before the 2027 general elections, saying it provides INEC with another opportunity to demonstrate its preparedness and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

The President appealed directly to Osun residents to come out and exercise their civic responsibility peacefully, while respecting the choices of other voters.

He reminded voters that elections should be about ideas and service rather than violence.

“Elections are contests of ideas and service, and should never cost the life of any Nigerian,” he said.

Tinubu said the Federal Government had put measures in place to support a peaceful election and reiterated that the responsibility of government was to protect both the electoral process and the people.

He maintained that the ultimate decision belongs to the people of Osun State and urged all political actors to respect the outcome of the election, regardless of which candidate emerges victorious.

“Whatever that decision may be, it must be respected,” the President said.

The Osun governorship election is scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 15, with voters expected to choose the governor who will lead the state for the next four years.

Tinubu Orders EFCC to Unfreeze Osun Government Accounts Ahead of Governorship Election

 

Tinubu Hails Rescue of 308 Kidnap Victims in Kwara, Niger

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the rescue of 308 Nigerians who were kidnapped in separate attacks across Kwara and Niger states, describing the operation as a major victory in the country’s fight against terrorism and banditry.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the victims were freed during a coordinated intelligence-led operation carried out by the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in collaboration with the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force.

The statement disclosed that 163 of the rescued victims were abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, while the remaining 145 victims were kidnapped in Niger State.

Security operatives reportedly located the victims inside the Kainji Lake National Park Forest in New Bussa Local Government Area of Niger State, where they were rescued during what the Presidency described as the largest same-day rescue operation ever conducted by Nigeria’s joint security agencies.

President Tinubu praised the military, intelligence agencies and police for what he called their courage, professionalism and effective collaboration in securing the release of the victims.

“The successful execution of this intelligence-led operation demonstrates the growing efficiency and collaboration among our security services. I commend our gallant men and women in uniform for their bravery and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigerian lives,” the President said.

The rescued victims are currently receiving first aid and medical attention at the medical facility in Wawa Cantonment before being reunited with their families.

The Presidency said that after medical examinations are completed, the victims will be handed over to the governments of Kwara and Niger states for rehabilitation, psychosocial support and family reunification.

While celebrating the successful operation, Tinubu stressed that more work remains to be done in tackling insecurity across the country.

He directed security agencies to immediately strengthen early warning systems, improve intelligence gathering at the community level and enhance rapid response capabilities to prevent future attacks.

The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace across Nigeria, insisting that government would continue investing in security operations aimed at protecting lives and dismantling criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and violent attacks.

Kidnapping for ransom remains one of Nigeria’s major security challenges, particularly in parts of the North Central and North West regions, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted rural communities, travellers and schools.

The latest rescue operation is expected to boost confidence in ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat terrorism, banditry and organised criminal activities across the country.

Tinubu Approves Up to 80% Salary Increase for Armed Forces Personnel

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a new salary structure for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with personnel set to receive pay increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent beginning September 1, 2026.

The salary adjustment, announced by the Presidency on Tuesday, will benefit approximately 250,000 military personnel across various ranks and formations.

Under the new package, officers from the rank of Brigadier-General to General will receive a 30 per cent increase in their salaries. Officers from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer are to benefit from a 50 per cent salary adjustment, while personnel from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive the highest increase of 80 per cent.

The new wage structure will raise the Federal Government’s annual salary expenditure on the armed forces from about ₦660 billion to approximately ₦924 billion, representing one of the largest military welfare packages approved in recent years.

President Tinubu said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel who continue to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across the country.

According to the President, members of the armed forces deserve better support considering the sacrifices they make in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens.

“The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation,” Tinubu said.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the military through increased investment in weapons, equipment and advanced technology needed to strengthen national security operations.

“Our administration will continue to prioritise troop welfare and modernise the armed forces by providing the weapons and technological tools needed to discharge their duties,” he added.

Tinubu maintained that security remains central to national development, stressing that no country can achieve sustainable progress without guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue deploying military and other law enforcement resources to combat criminal activities and restore peace across the country.

The President also urged military personnel to see the salary increase as a demonstration of the government’s appreciation for their service and dedication.

“I urge our servicemen to take our gesture as a sign of our deep appreciation of the services they render to our fatherland. Together we shall prevail over the enemies intent on destroying the fabric of our nation,” he said.

The salary review comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to strengthen troop morale and enhance operational effectiveness as security agencies intensify operations against insurgents, bandits and other criminal groups across Nigeria.

The new salary structure is expected to take effect nationwide from September 1, 2026.

Tinubu Deserves Commendation, Not Condemnation — Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for what he described as his courage to speak uncomfortable truths, while defending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms as necessary steps that have stabilised Nigeria’s economy.

Speaking at the Delta State Investment Summit, Shettima described Soludo as a respected statesman who has consistently chosen principle over popular opinion.

According to the Vice President, Soludo demonstrated that courage during the 2023 presidential election by insisting that the path to Nigeria’s presidency should be built on grassroots support, inclusiveness and broad national appeal rather than intimidation or political blackmail.

“He went against the direction of the wind by telling Nigerians that the road to the Presidential Villa does not pass through intimidation, blackmail and harassment. The road to the Presidential Villa leads through building grassroots support, inclusivity and broad-mindedness,” Shettima said.

The Vice President also defended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, arguing that despite the initial hardship experienced by Nigerians, the policies were already producing measurable results.

He said Nigeria had moved from a period of capital flight and dwindling reserves to one attracting increased investment inflows.

“We were experiencing capital flight and capital scarcity. Today, we are experiencing capital inflows. Our foreign reserves have risen to over 52 billion dollars and counting despite the turbulence in the global economy. I think the President deserves commendation, not condemnation,” he stated.

Shettima further commended Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, describing her as one of Nigeria’s finest global ambassadors whose achievements continue to project the country’s image positively on the international stage.

He also paid tribute to renowned Kenyan legal scholar and Pan-Africanist, Professor Patrick Lumumba, praising his commitment to promoting African unity and intellectual development across the continent.

Addressing investors and government officials at the summit, the Vice President said the increasing number of investment summits organised by state governments reflected healthy competition aimed at attracting businesses and accelerating economic growth.

He noted that every state possesses unique strengths and should develop strategies that reflect its comparative advantages, resources and people.

“The cycle of competition among our states is now evident in the quality and ambition of the investment summits convened across the federation. Every state possesses immense promise, but each must define a trajectory unique to its history, geography, people and comparative advantage. This is a race we must welcome,” Shettima said.

The Delta State Investment Summit brought together political leaders, diplomats, traditional rulers, business executives and development partners to explore investment opportunities and strengthen economic collaboration across Nigeria.

BREAKING: Tinubu’s Aide Reveals What Happened During Rescue Operation, Says Eight Suspected Kidnappers Are in DSS Custody

 Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has disclosed fresh details about the recent rescue operation that secured the freedom of kidnapped victims, revealing that eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are now in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

In a statement on Friday, Onanuga also dismissed claims that the Federal Government negotiated the victims’ release by agreeing to the kidnappers’ demands.

According to him, security operatives arrested eight members of the criminal group during the operation, while several other suspects were neutralised.

He stressed that there was no quid pro quo in the rescue process despite reports that the kidnappers had demanded the release of one of their alleged leaders.

“There was no quid pro quo in the rescue as one of the terrorists, a kingpin, that the kidnappers demanded his release, is being prosecuted for his atrocities,” Onanuga said.

The presidential aide added that the alleged kingpin remains in custody and is facing prosecution, contrary to speculation that he may have been released as part of negotiations to secure the victims’ freedom.

Onanuga further disclosed that security agencies would provide a comprehensive account of the operation in due course.

“The security agencies will give full account soon,” he stated.

The latest update comes amid widespread public interest in how the rescue operation was carried out and whether any concessions were made to the kidnappers.

While full operational details are yet to be released, the Presidency’s statement indicates that the rescue involved coordinated security action that resulted in arrests and the neutralisation of some of the suspected criminals.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the arrested suspects or provided further information about the ongoing investigation.

Shemariah Media will continue to monitor developments and publish the full briefing from security agencies once it is officially released.