Category: Nigerian Tribune

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, is set to make history as the first Nigerian trade union leader to receive the prestigious Arthur Svensson International Award.

The award, which will be presented on June 10 in Oslo, Norway, recognises individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment, courage and leadership in the defence of workers’ rights and trade union freedoms.

Established in memory of renowned Norwegian trade unionist Arthur Svensson (1938-2003), the award is presented every two years to labour leaders and organisations that have made significant contributions to advancing workers’ welfare, particularly in difficult and challenging environments.

Ajaero’s selection places him among a distinguished group of labour activists from different parts of the world who have been honoured for their advocacy, resilience and commitment to social justice.

Labour leaders and activists have described the recognition as a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s labour movement and an acknowledgement of the struggles and sacrifices made by workers across the country.

Before emerging as NLC president, Ajaero served as General Secretary of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), where he played a prominent role in labour negotiations during the privatisation of Nigeria’s power sector and championed workers’ rights within the industry.

Since assuming leadership of the NLC, he has remained a leading voice on issues affecting Nigerian workers, including wages, economic reforms, labour rights and social welfare.

Supporters say the award reflects his years of advocacy and commitment to defending workers’ interests despite numerous challenges associated with labour activism.

The Arthur Svensson International Award has previously been conferred on labour leaders and organisations from countries such as Colombia, Myanmar, Turkey and Belarus, where trade union movements have often operated under difficult conditions.

Ajaero’s recognition is expected to further strengthen the profile of Nigeria’s labour movement on the global stage while drawing international attention to the concerns and aspirations of Nigerian workers.

The award ceremony, scheduled to take place in Oslo, will bring together labour leaders, activists and representatives of international trade union organisations from across the world.

For many within the labour movement, Ajaero’s emergence as the first Nigerian trade union leader to receive the honour represents a significant milestone and a moment of pride for workers throughout the country.

Across Nigeria, customised number plates have become a growing status symbol among business owners, politicians, celebrities, and luxury car enthusiasts. It is no longer unusual to see vehicles carrying personalised plate numbers with names, initials, company brands, or unique letter combinations that stand out immediately on the road.

For many vehicle owners, these plates offer a sense of identity and exclusivity. Others see them as a prestige item that reflects social status. But as interest continues to rise, one question keeps coming up: what is the actual cost for customised number plates Nigeria 2026?

What are customised number plates?

Customised number plates, often called fancy or personalized plates, allow vehicle owners to request a unique registration combination instead of accepting the standard number plate assigned during vehicle registration.

Meanwhile, these plates are issued through government-approved vehicle registration channels and remain subject to regulatory approval. Vehicle owners cannot simply create any combination they want. Requests must comply with registration rules and security requirements.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) oversees vehicle registration systems through the National Vehicle Identification Scheme.

How much do customised number plates cost in Nigeria in 2026?

Recent pricing approved under Nigeria’s vehicle registration framework shows that fancy private vehicle number plates now attract significantly higher fees than standard plates.

According to fee schedules published by The Nigerian Observer, following the Joint Tax Board (JTB), the top coordinating body for tax authorities across Nigeria has hiked the cost of vehicle number plates and driver’s licences across the country. So, a standard private vehicle number plate costs about N30,000, while a fancy customised number plate costs around N400,000.

Also, other categories and their prices include; standard private vehicle plate at the rate of N30,000, dealer plate cost N100,000, while out-of-series plate cost N150,000, and fancy customized plate cost N400,000.

Why people pay so much for plate numbers

The popularity of customised plates goes beyond transportation. Many Nigerians choose personalized plates because they promote business brands, display family names, increase vehicle uniqueness, create social recognition, and reflect personal identity.

For luxury vehicle owners, a customised plate often becomes part of the vehicle’s overall image. Because in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, personalized plates have become increasingly common among owners of high-end vehicles.

How to apply for a customised plate

The application process is handled through approved vehicle registration authorities.

Generally, applicants are expected to submit a request through the relevant licensing authority, provide vehicle ownership documents, select preferred plate combinations, pay the approved government fees,and then await approval and production.

Although the requested combination may be rejected if it conflicts with existing registrations, security regulations, or approved naming standards.

The FRSC advises motorists to use authorised registration channels and official vehicle identification platforms.

Things vehicle owners should know

As a vehicle owner, before applying, it is important to understand that a customised plate does not exempt motorists from normal vehicle registration requirements.

Vehicle particulars, roadworthiness obligations, insurance requirements, and ownership records must still remain valid.

The FRSC has also warned against fake, altered, or unauthorised number plates and its vendors.

Enforcement operations across Nigeria have targeted vehicles carrying illegal registration plates because of security concerns and vehicle identification challenges.

Is it worth the cost?

Whether a customised plate is worth N400,000 depends on the vehicle owner’s priorities.

As for some Nigerians, the appeal lies in exclusivity and branding. And for others, spending hundreds of thousands of naira on a number plate may seem unnecessary, especially when a standard registration plate performs the same legal function.

Whereas, demand continues to grow despite rising registration costs.

The cost of customised number plates in Nigeria 2026 is considerably higher than standard vehicle registration fees, with fancy plates now costing about N400,000 under current pricing structures. While personalized plates remain a luxury option rather than a necessity, they continue to attract motorists looking for uniqueness and visibility on Nigerian roads.

Before applying, vehicle owners should verify current fees through official registration channels and ensure they follow FRSC-approved procedures to avoid complications.

Hon. Bitrus Kaze was a two-term member of the House of Representatives. In an interview with the North-Central Bureau Chief, ISAAC SHOBAYO, he speaks on the recently concluded primary election across political parties, defection on the floor of National Assembly, state of opposition parties, among other issues: Excerpts:

What is your take on the controversies trailing the primary elections held by various political parties in the country?

That of the APC is more pronounced. Literally, the APC’s issues are more visible because it is the party in power. A lot has happened in Nigeria’s political landscape that has led many politicians to move into the APC. Therefore, the APC has become like a home for many politicians. When the APC coughs, Nigeria catches a cold. That is why its problems are more pronounced. If the APC is witnessing a lot of struggles simply because it is in power, then one begins to wonder what is happening with the opposition parties. Take the PDP, for example.

It has been in Nigeria’s political landscape longer than the APC. Why has it not been able to gather itself together and provide credible opposition?

The truth is that the way the APC emerged and the way our political situation evolved today is partly because the PDP failed to manage its success well. Even as an opposition party, it has not conducted itself any better. The very atrocities that people are now complaining about in other political parties, with utmost respect, I think began in the PDP and have spread like an infectious disease.

As the party in power, it is usually assumed that the APC should set the standard for others to follow, the primary elections across the nation have revealed the division within the party. What is your feeling concerning this?

In fact, I understand and accept that there are complaints here and there concerning what happened during the APC primaries.

I can even tell you that from my own constituency in Jos, where I come from, there are definitely genuine complaints. But as I said earlier, the APC’s issues are more pronounced because it is the ruling party. It has many prominent politicians within its ranks.

Naturally, whatever happens there will be heard more widely, known more broadly, and exposed more than what happens in other parties. However, if the APC, which is in government, is struggling with these problems, the natural expectation is that opposition parties should be more decent, more orderly, and more democratic. Let me put it this way: opposition parties should conduct themselves in a manner that attracts people, even those leaving the APC, because they would have demonstrated a better understanding of how to manage political success and internal democracy.

As things stand today, with utmost respect, I have admitted that there are complaints within the APC. But I do not know whether the complaints within the APC are on the same scale as those in the opposition parties, or perhaps even less severe. After all, the opposition is where politicians who may wish to leave the APC should find solace. But the opposition parties, especially the PDP, have for a long time been unable to hold themselves together. And if you cannot hold yourself together as an opposition party, how can you provide a credible alternative? That is the situation. Yes, the APC has problems, but unfortunately, I think the problems within the opposition parties are even worse.

How do you view democracy in the light of the crises rocking the opposition parties, is Nigeria moving towards a one-party state?

Democracy does not function solely because of those who are already in leadership positions. Those aspiring to leadership must also conduct themselves in a way that earns the confidence of the people. They must be able to provide alternatives that attract attention, inspire confidence, and convince people that they are capable of governing. Unfortunately, whether in the APC, the ADC, the PDP, or any other party, there are hardly any completely new players in Nigerian politics. The people who crippled the PDP are spread across other parties. Some have joined the APC. Likewise, some of those who contributed to the challenges within the APC were among those who formed it and helped bring it to power. They did not manage success well. And because they do not have a strong track record of managing political systems effectively, the problems they created tend to follow them wherever they go.

So, ensuring that Nigeria operates as a true multi-party democracy is not solely the responsibility of the ruling party. It is also the responsibility of Nigerians, political actors across all parties, and citizens who must ask valid questions of their leaders. One thing I have observed in this country is that we rarely pay attention to the internal workings of political parties. The courts have repeatedly held that internal party affairs remain internal matters over which they generally have limited jurisdiction. However, we cannot ignore the fact that whatever happens inside political parties eventually affects governance and the country as a whole. Therefore, Nigerians ought to be concerned about internal democracy in all parties, not just the APC. Not all of us are politicians. Not all of us belong to political parties. But civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, associations, and religious bodies all have roles to play in advocating for internal democracy within political parties. If the APC is making mistakes, and if the PDP made mistakes while in power, then someone else should rise, put their house in order, and provide a credible alternative. To the extent that there is no credible alternative, you cannot entirely blame the party that everyone seems to be running to because it appears to be the only available platform.

The presidential election in 2027 may be a repeat of the 2023 one in terms of major candidates, does this imply that there are no alternatives to these political figures?

It could suggest that we are not moving forward. It could suggest that there is insufficient political renewal in Nigeria.

But more importantly, it could simply reflect the desperation of some political gladiators. It may be that certain political actors want power at all costs.

With utmost respect, my brother, what is Atiku still running for president for in this country?

Is there nobody he has mentored or groomed to take over from him? Is there nobody who can carry on after him? At some point, one must step aside and allow younger people to emerge. As for Peter Obi, I was sympathetic to the Obidient movement, especially during the 2023 election. If I were an Obidient, I would ask myself this question: considering the experience President Tinubu has, considering that he is a veteran in Nigeria’s political terrain, will it be feasible to take down such an experienced politician in the middle of his first tenure? If I were Peter Obi, I would have approached that question differently rather than moving from one political party to another. Unfortunately, it sends a message of weak political tact. It creates the impression that he is desperate to become president by any means necessary and through any political platform available. It also suggests that he may not fully understand what it takes to unseat an experienced president like Tinubu, who, more than possibly any other president, enjoys the support of a significant number of state governors. He has about 30 governors with him in the APC. Taking down such a person cannot be that easy.

As for Atiku, I have said before that he has expired politically. He should have groomed someone to take over from him, even if it were his son. As for the other aspirants emerging, some may simply be adding to the numbers for now. I do not think they are ready.

What is your assessment of political parties in Nigeria at the moment?

Having only one viable political party is not solely the making of that party. It is also a reflection of the inability of other parties to provide a credible alternative. It is a function of the entire political system. Look at what has happened in the PDP. Look at what is happening in the ADC. How can it be that, knowing fully well you are no longer in government, you still cannot provide fairness internally?

How is it that you are unable to provide internal democracy, one so attractive that it could encourage people to leave the ruling party and join you? Instead, they are busy fighting one another. They are busy destroying one another.

Naturally, those in the ruling party look at that alternative and see an even worse option.

Is that not another way of one-party state in disguise?

It cannot work anywhere in the world for a country like Nigeria to effectively operate as a one-party state. But a one-party reality is not just the fault of the party in power. It is a function of all political parties. It is a function of political stakeholders and citizens alike.

STAKEHOLDERS of Aramoko-Ekiti in Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State have defended the ongoing selection process for the Alara of Aramoko stool, describing it as credible, transparent and in line with the town’s chieftaincy declaration.

The stakeholders, in a statement by Princes Adeolu Adediran, Adeniyi Samuel and Olusola Adeniyi, maintained that the exercise was conducted in strict compliance with the registered Aramoko Chieftaincy Declaration, and under the supervision of relevant government officials and community leaders.

Reacting to a publication calling on the Ekiti government to restart the selection process, the princes described the demand as misleading and unfounded.

The princes argued that it was based on falsehoods, misrepresentations and allegations capable of causing unnecessary tension in the community.

They stated that the process was conducted in strict compliance with the established chieftaincy guidelines governing the selection of the traditional ruler.

They listed the officials present during the exercise to include the state commissioner for chieftaincy affairs, the permanent secretary and director in the ministry, and the secretary of the Ekiti West Local Government Traditional Council.

Others are the representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim community, as well as officials of the Aramoko Development Association (ADA).

They dismissed allegations of irregularities surrounding the Ifa consultation conducted during the selection process, stating that a renowned Ifa priest, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, was invited by the kingmakers, and not by any contestant.

They said the divination was carried out in the presence of stakeholders, government officials and observers, adding that the proceedings were recorded on video and could be used to verify the transparency of the exercise.

The princes noted that all eligible princes from the Olokun Ruling House were given equal opportunity to participate in the selection process and that the screening stage was a standard requirement aimed at ensuring only qualified candidates advanced.

‘We, the people of Aramoko-Ekiti are peaceful and law-abiding, and we are appealing to the government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to disregard the faceless individuals and conclude the process promptly so that Aramoko can have a traditional ruler,’ they said.

Also, in the statement, the Ogboni of Aramoko-Ekiti, Chief Adebayo Oyewole, said he was misrepresented in the report and did not allege any irregularity in the process.

He said that the traditional chief affirmed that the exercise was conducted without irregularities and expressed concern over what he described as a misrepresentation of his views.

He alleged that opposition to the process was being driven by dissatisfied aspirants and individuals seeking to create division within the community.

‘This is the work of a desperate aspirant and fifth columnists who imported unknown persons with no stake in Aramoko to create division and tension. The Alara stool is not anyone’s personal property but a sacred and revered stool in Yoruba land,’ Oyewole said.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Young Adults and Youth Affairs (YAYA) has announced, at a press conference in Lagos, the second edition of its Mega Music Festival (MMF 2.0).

Themed ‘A New Season’, the festival is scheduled for June 12 at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, in what is tagged ‘A night of praise, worship, and prayers’.

The General Overseer (GO) of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, is expected to minister at the event. Other expected ministers include Pastor Johnson Odesola and Pastor J. T. Kalejaiye.

Gospel ministers, including Nathaniel Bassey, Duers Oyekan, Yinka Alaseyori and Bidemi Olaoba, are expected to feature as well.

The special assistant to the general overseer (Youth Affairs) of RCCG, Pastor Sola Olukoya, disclosed that transportation would be provided for people in Lagos and Ogun states, adding that adequate security, traffic management, and medical services would also be arranged.

Pastor Olukoya described the gathering as a divine appointment designed to bring believers together in prayers, worship, prophetic declarations, and thanksgiving to God.

‘We are gathering thousands of believers from across Nigeria and beyond to lift one sound of worship before God and declare the beginning of a new season over our lives, our families, Lagos State and Nigeria as a nation,’ he said.

Pastor Olukoya stated that the theme was inspired by biblical accounts demonstrating the power of praise and worship in bringing divine intervention, citing the stories of King Jehoshaphat and Paul and Silas.

The pastor noted that the church believes that Nigeria is entering a season of restoration, economic recovery, security, innovation, and national transformation, which he said is worth celebrating with faith.

Beyond worship, the event will also serve as the launch platform for the RCCG Young Adult and Youth Tech Fellowship, an initiative of RCCG Young Adults and Youth Affairs in collaboration with Reach4Christ.

Olukoya disclosed that the fellowship aims to equip more than 100,000 young people with practical digital and technology skills through a four-month intensive training programme.

According to him, participants will receive training in data analysis and visualisation, product development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software development, digital innovation, and other emerging technology fields.

‘The future belongs to those who are prepared. Our mission is to equip young people spiritually, mentally, and professionally, enabling them to access global opportunities, build enterprises and contribute meaningfully to national development,’ he said.

The leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has commenced efforts to resolve internal disagreements in Kano State following a meeting with representatives of the Kwankwasiya movement, as the party reiterated its commitment to internal democracy and transparent candidate selection processes.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Osa Director, a delegation of the Kwankwasiya movement met behind closed doors with the National Leader of the NDC, Henry Seriake Dickson, and other party leaders.

According to the statement, the meeting was convened to address issues between the Kwankwasiya movement and legacy officials of the party in Kano State.

The party said the intervention by its national leadership was aimed at promoting unity, inclusion and broader participation among members ahead of the conclusion of its internal electoral processes.

‘The closed-door meeting was aimed at resolving the issues between the Kwankwasiya movement and the legacy officials of NDC in Kano State,’ the statement said.

It added that Senator Dickson and the party leadership were actively mediating in the process to ensure that all stakeholders were carried along in the affairs of the party.

The NDC stressed that it would not impose candidates in Kano State or any other part of the country, maintaining that its leadership remained committed to the principles of internal democracy.

According to the party, the ongoing consultations are intended to foster consensus and strengthen confidence among members as preparations continue for future electoral contests.

The statement described the meeting as productive, noting that discussions lasted several hours and focused on finding common ground among the concerned parties.

‘The NDC leadership will not impose candidates in Kano State, and indeed across the nation, as the party cherishes the virtues of internal democracy,’ it stated.

The development comes amid reports and speculations surrounding the outcome of the party’s primary elections in some states.

However, the NDC dismissed the authenticity of lists purportedly containing results of its primaries, saying no official results had been released by the party.

‘The NDC has not released any official results of its primary elections in any state. Hence, the public and party members are urged to disregard any such list in circulation,’ the statement added.

Party officials said the clarification became necessary to prevent misinformation and reassure members that the leadership would follow due process in announcing the outcomes of its internal electoral exercises.

The party expressed confidence that ongoing consultations and reconciliation efforts would strengthen unity among members and further consolidate its commitment to democratic principles and inclusive participation.

National Coordinator of Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), Comrade Jamilu Charanchi, has expressed grave concern over the controversy trailing the breach of data at the disposal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by an Aide to the FCT Minister.

Comrade Charanchi, who spoke during an exclusive interview with Nigerian Tribune, also frowned at the position of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the 30 May 2026 deadline issued to political parties on the conduct of party primaries.

He said, ‘We are conversant with the controversy surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission’s insistence that political parties must comply with its May 30 deadline for primaries.

But first, as law-abiding citizens and stakeholders in the democratic process, we believe that once a court of law has delivered a judgement, such judgement deserves respect and compliance pending the outcome of any appeal. It is up to parties in the case to challenge the ruling at a higher court.

‘But this issue once again exposes the deep flaws and contradictions deliberately embedded in the Electoral Act by lawmakers whose primary concern has never been the protection of democracy but the manipulation of political processes for selfish interests.

‘It is disgraceful that the National Assembly continues to produce vague and crisis-prone electoral provisions that repeatedly drag us into avoidable legal confusion ahead of every election cycle.

‘It’s also sad that the Tinubu-led administration appears comfortable backing INEC’s increasingly controversial positions instead of reassuring Nigerians about neutrality, fairness and its independence. Democracy cannot thrive if INEC becomes an extension of the ruling party rather than a neutral arbiter of the people’s mandate,’ Comrade Charanchi said.

While expressing concern over recurring controversies trailing the Commission’s integrity, Comrade Charanchi lamented the erosion of public confidence in the Commission.

Worried by the development, he urged the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to resign, stressing that his neutrality is openly questioned by large sections of the population.

He said, ‘On the issue of INEC itself, we must state clearly and without ambiguity that public confidence in the commission and its chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has waned almost completely. Across Nigeria, among civil society groups, observers, stakeholders and ordinary citizens, there is now a widespread perception that the current leadership of INEC has become overtly partisan and incapable of serving as a neutral umpire.

‘INEC conducts many recent happenings in the electoral processes; the inconsistencies in policy decisions, the poor management of public expectations and the controversial breach of data at its disposal, allegedly by an Aide to the FCT Minister, have severely damaged the credibility of the institution. Nigerians deserve an electoral body that inspires trust, not suspicion.

‘If Prof. Amupitan still has any remnant of integrity and commitment to democratic credibility, he should honourably vacate his position. The office of the INEC Chairman is too sensitive to be occupied by someone whose neutrality is openly questioned by large sections of the population.

Democracy survives on public confidence. Once citizens lose faith in the electoral referee, the entire democratic process becomes endangered,’ Comrade Charanchi stressed.

While calling for the restoration of confidence in INEC and the breach of data in the electoral system, the CNG leader maintained that Nigerians ‘cannot continue approaching every election cycle under clouds of distrust, controversy and avoidable legal disputes.

‘The future of our democracy depends on rebuilding credibility, transparency and public confidence in the institutions responsible for managing elections by people of the highest integrity, which Amupitan is lacking,’ he noted.

THREE passengers lost their lives in a train accident that occurred on Monday on the Warri-Itakpe Train services.

Confirming the fatalities in a tweet on X, Presidency Nigeria stated that the fatalities were confirmed as at the time of filing in this report.

The Presidency Nigeria tweet reads: ‘The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed a train accident involving the Warri-Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor at Agbor, Delta State.

‘Rescue and emergency response operations were immediately activated. All passengers on board have now been accounted for.

‘Sadly, three fatalities have been confirmed at this time.

‘Relevant authorities continue to assess the full circumstances surrounding the incident, while support is being provided to affected passengers.

‘The thoughts and prayers of all Nigerians are with the victims and their loved ones.

‘Members of the public are advised to rely only on verified information and official updates from the Nigerian Railway Corporation as investigations and response efforts continue.

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will issue official access codes to political parties for the Candidate Nomination Portal for the nomination of candidates for the 2027 general elections on Friday, June 26.

The INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, disclosed this on Tuesday at a quarterly meeting with leaders of registered political parties in Abuja.

Although party primaries for the election of candidates were concluded on May 30, there has been growing tension following the failure of some political parties to issue certificates of return to elected candidates.

Amupitan said the access codes would enable designated national officers of political parties to upload the names, personal particulars, and other required information relating to nominated candidates.

Prof. Amupitan urged political parties to ensure that their ICT personnel and relevant officers are adequately prepared for the exercise.

He stated that all submissions must be completed within the stipulated deadlines.

‘The portal is fully automated and will close automatically at the expiration of the prescribed period,’ the INEC chairman warned.

Prof. Amupitan expressed concern over several cases still pending in various courts regarding party leadership, describing them as ‘an unnecessary distraction.’

He expressed the belief that all issues should be resolved without further delay.

The INEC Chairman pledged the Commission’s independence and impartiality in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

He called on political party leaders to intensify voter education and mobilisation efforts so that eligible citizens would take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise to register and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the next general election.

Prof. Amupitan noted that the credibility of elections depends on the collective commitment to the rule of law, democratic values, and the integrity of the electoral process.

‘The success of the 2027 general election will depend not only on the preparedness of the Commission but also on the commitment of political parties to uphold democratic principles, respect the rule of law, conduct transparent primaries, discourage violence, hate speech, vote buying, and promote issue-based campaigns,’ he said.

The INEC Chairman assured that the Commission would continue to provide a level playing field for all political parties and candidates, ensuring strict adherence to the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and all relevant guidelines.

Prof. Amupitan, while speaking on two judgments of the Federal High Court that nullified some aspects of INEC’s timetable, stated that, notwithstanding the pending appeals, the Commission remains committed to conducting the 2027 general election in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and all lawful judicial pronouncements.

Thousands of aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday stormed the party’s Lagos State secretariat in Ogba, protesting alleged irregularities and manipulation of results in the recently concluded House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly primary elections.

The protesters, drawn from Amuwo-Odofin, Eti-Osa, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Somolu, Agege, Oshodi-Isolo and Alimosho, accused the state APC chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, and leaders of the Justice Forum political group, including its chairman, Hon. James Faleke, of influencing the primaries in favour of preferred candidates.

They called on President Bola Tinubu, the APC National Working Committee and the party’s appeal committees to investigate the conduct of the primaries and reverse what they described as widespread violations of the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

Constituencies at the centre of the dispute include Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency, Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I, Eti-Osa Federal Constituency and Somolu Constituency II.

One of the petitions was filed by House of Representatives aspirant, Ayodele Adebowale Adewale, who challenged the outcome of the primary election in Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency.

In a petition to the APC House of Representatives Primary Appeal Committee, Adewale alleged that the exercise conducted across the constituency’s 11 wards was riddled with procedural irregularities.

According to him, no official APC membership register was presented during accreditation, while party members were accredited solely with APC slips without proper verification of identity or membership status.

He further alleged that many of the slips used for accreditation were unofficial and may have been mass-produced outside approved party structures.

Adewale urged the committee to investigate the accreditation and voting processes across the constituency, review all election materials used, nullify the results and ensure strict compliance with the party’s constitution and electoral guidelines.

He also submitted video evidence, which he said captured his interaction with election officials during accreditation in Festac 1 Ward and highlighted concerns about the conduct of the exercise.

Similarly, the House of Assembly aspirant for Amuwo-Odofin Constituency II, Hon. David Olukoya Doherty, petitioned the APC Primary Appeal Committee over alleged irregularities in the election conducted across the constituency’s seven wards.

Doherty claimed the process lacked transparency, alleging that the selection of returning officers was manipulated in favour of the incumbent lawmaker and that aspirants were excluded from key decisions, including the choice of voting venues.

He also raised concerns over the absence of a verified membership register and alleged that accreditation was conducted using APC slips without proper identity checks.

The aspirant further alleged that armed men disrupted voting in the riverine wards of H, I and J through intimidation and gunfire, forcing party members to flee and rendering the exercise inconclusive in those areas.

In Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, petitioners alleged widespread procedural violations, result manipulation and irregular collation during the House of Representatives primary election.

According to the petition, electoral officers failed to report to the designated collation centre, while results were allegedly collated and altered elsewhere before submission to party officials.

The petitioners further alleged that votes were recorded in some wards where elections either did not hold or were disrupted by violence.

They called for a thorough investigation, verification of original ward-level results, forensic examination of disputed result sheets and a review to ensure that the final outcome reflected votes genuinely cast by party members.

Also under scrutiny is the APC House of Representatives primary election in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I.

According to a situation report submitted to party leaders, aspirant Ogundipe polled 11,939 votes against Alakija’s 3,086 votes across the constituency’s five wards.

The report alleged that after the election, the returning officer, Prince AbdulRasaq Omoloja, was lured to the local government secretariat by party officials and detained against his will.

Despite the alleged intimidation, the report claimed that the returning officer successfully transmitted the authentic results to the APC National Secretariat.

In Somolu Constituency II, the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Samuel Olu Apata, also petitioned the party over alleged attempts to overturn the outcome of the House of Assembly primary election.

Apata maintained that the election was conducted peacefully and transparently and that he won with 9,081 votes, defeating Hon. Aturase, who polled 814 votes, and Mr. Alli Balogun, who secured 677 votes.

He alleged that some party leaders were plotting to substitute him with another aspirant who did not win the primary election and appealed to the APC national leadership to affirm his victory and issue him the party’s nomination certificate.

Speaking on developments in Agege, former ward chairman, Hon. Ismail Macaulay, alleged that the declared results did not reflect the actual outcome of the primary election.

‘We did not vote for Agbelebu and Shakiru. We voted for Egunjobi and Ninolowo,’ he said.

According to him, the results were altered after the exercise.

‘Ojelabi, members of the state executive committee and some leaders of the Governance Advisory Council upturned the results. Let Ojelabi produce evidence of the results he announced. I am the secretary of Ward B in Agege, where Agbelebu contested, and he did not win the primary,’ he alleged.

Macaulay further claimed that the affected candidates were removed because of their perceived political alignment within the party.

The protesters insisted that the integrity of the APC’s internal democratic process was at stake and urged the party leadership to address all grievances transparently to prevent further discontent ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Neither Cornelius Ojelabi nor any member of the Lagos APC executive committee was available to address the protesters. Calls and text messages sent to the state chairman were not returned as of the time of filing this report.