A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has accused President Bola Tinubu of attempting to weaken opposition parties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.

Mr Eze made the claims in a press statement on Friday, reacting to the removal of key ADC officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal.

The development involves the delisting of Senator David Mark and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s national chairman and secretary respectively.

Mr Eze described the move as politically motivated, alleging that it reflects growing tension as political alignments begin ahead of 2027.

“Even with 33 serving governors in the ruling party, President Tinubu is afraid of a competitive election in 2027,” Mr Eze said.

Why it matters

Nigeria’s next presidential election is still over a year away, but early political manoeuvres are already shaping the landscape.

Disputes over party leadership and INEC’s role in maintaining party records could influence how opposition parties organise and present candidates.

Analysts say internal cohesion within opposition parties will be critical if they are to mount a strong challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Allegations against government and INEC

Mr Eze accused the Tinubu administration of interfering in party affairs through state institutions, including INEC.

He said:

“This latest illegal move of using INEC to destabilise the ADC is politics taken too far.”

He also alleged that the government was attempting to weaken opposition parties broadly, referencing internal challenges within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“The target and game plan is to ensure a sole presidential candidate across party lines in 2027,” he claimed.

The presidency and INEC have not publicly responded to these specific allegations.

Legal context and Supreme Court ruling

Mr Eze cited a recent Supreme Court judgment to support his argument that INEC should not interfere in internal party matters.

According to him, the ruling in a case involving the PDP emphasised that leadership disputes within political parties are internal issues.

“The Supreme Court has made a pronouncement stopping INEC from interfering in the affairs of political parties,” he said.

Legal experts note, however, that while courts often avoid internal party disputes, INEC still has statutory responsibilities to maintain accurate party records and ensure compliance with electoral laws.

Industry and public perspectives

Political observers say such disputes are not uncommon in Nigeria’s pre-election period.

Some analysts argue that accusations of interference often reflect deeper struggles within parties over leadership and direction.

Others warn that prolonged disputes could weaken opposition coalitions and reduce voter confidence.

Civil society groups have also called for transparency from both political parties and electoral bodies to maintain trust in the democratic process.

What’s next

The ADC has indicated it will continue with its internal political activities despite the dispute.

Mr Eze urged party members to proceed with planned congresses and organisational processes.

Meanwhile, attention is likely to shift to INEC for clarification on the status of party officials and its role in the controversy.

As political activity intensifies, stakeholders are expected to monitor how institutions manage disputes in the lead-up to 2027.

Nigeria’s banking regulator has intervened in the operations of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc after uncovering what it describes as large-scale financial mismanagement linked to former directors, raising concerns about corporate governance and financial stability.

What happened

According to findings referenced in a press statement, former directors of the bank allegedly concealed over ₦250 billion in losses and exposed the institution to significant risk through unprotected foreign borrowing.

The report also claims that more than $300 million in external loans were improperly structured, leaving the bank solely responsible for repayment obligations.

Investigators further allege that over $100 million was withdrawn irregularly, while internal funds were used to acquire shares in the bank—actions that may breach financial regulations.

Regulatory intervention

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) stepped in amid fears that the bank’s financial position could deteriorate further.

Officials say the intervention was necessary to stabilise operations and prevent wider risks to Nigeria’s banking system.

“Without timely regulatory action, the situation could have escalated into a systemic crisis,” a financial analyst familiar with the matter said.

Why it matters

Union Bank is one of Nigeria’s long-standing financial institutions, and any instability could have ripple effects across the economy.

Experts warn that such cases highlight ongoing concerns about corporate governance, transparency, and risk management in the banking sector.

For customers, the episode raises questions about how deposits are protected and how regulators monitor financial institutions.

Industry and public reactions

Banking analysts say the situation underscores the importance of stronger oversight and accountability.

Some stakeholders have also called for stricter penalties for financial misconduct to deter future violations.

Signs of recovery

Since the intervention, Union Bank is reported to be stabilising, with efforts underway to restore financial health and rebuild trust.

Regulators and industry observers say recovery will depend on sustained reforms, improved transparency, and stronger internal controls.

What’s next

Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the actions of former directors, with potential legal and regulatory consequences.

The CBN is also likely to strengthen oversight mechanisms to prevent similar occurrences in other financial institutions.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 4,000 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory to maintain law and order during the Easter celebrations.

The FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, said the move is aimed at protecting lives, property, and critical infrastructure before, during, and after the holiday period.

He explained that officers have been stationed at key public locations including churches, shopping malls, markets, hospitals, motor parks and recreational centres.

Why It Matters

Easter is one of the most widely observed Christian holidays in Nigeria, often marked by large gatherings, making it a potential target for security threats.

Authorities say the increased deployment is intended to deter criminal activity and reassure residents amid ongoing national security concerns.

Special Units and Surveillance

According to the NSCDC, the deployment includes specialised units such as the Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and Agro Rangers.

Undercover operatives have also been deployed for intelligence gathering and surveillance.

Officials say black spots, including abandoned buildings often used by criminals, are being monitored to prevent security breaches.

Commandant’s Directive

Mr Odumosu has directed area commanders and divisional officers to ensure visibility across all councils in the FCT.

“We are ready as always to ensure a peaceful celebration. You have a part to play too by being proactive, vigilant and ready to cooperate with law enforcement agencies for our collective good,” he said.

He also warned personnel to maintain discipline, avoid harassment of civilians, and adhere strictly to rules of engagement.

Public Advisory

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

The commandant advised the public to watch out for unusual behaviour, unattended bags, or suspicious objects in public spaces.

He warned criminals and vandals to stay away from critical national assets, noting that covert teams are positioned across the city.

Broader Security Efforts

The NSCDC says it is working closely with other security agencies to strengthen safety measures across Abuja.

Mr Odumosu added that the collaboration is designed to “stay ahead of those with ulterior motives”.

What’s Next

Security operations are expected to continue throughout the Easter period, with authorities monitoring developments and adjusting deployments as needed.

Residents are encouraged to cooperate with officials to ensure a peaceful celebration.