A former national publicity secretary of the New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has praised ex–Vice President Atiku Abubakar for supporting his son’s decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Eze described the move as a “historic and personal decision” that demonstrates political tolerance and democratic maturity, amid growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 general election.

Abubakar Atiku Abubakar, popularly known as Abba, formally joined the APC at the National Assembly complex, a development that quickly dominated political debate across Nigeria.

Why it matters

The defection comes at a sensitive moment, with Atiku Abubakar expected to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027 on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Political analysts say the decision has heightened conversations around internal party democracy, family influence in politics, and tolerance for dissent in Nigeria’s multiparty system.

While critics see the move as controversial, supporters argue it reinforces democratic choice and individual political freedom.

Eze: Atiku sets democratic example

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Eze, an APC chieftain and member of the party’s Legacy Projects Media Team, said Atiku’s reaction to his son’s defection places him among Africa’s most respected democrats.

According to him, Atiku’s refusal to interfere in his son’s political decision shows “political sagacity, tolerance and uncommon democratic credentials.”

“By supporting his son’s defection from PDP to APC, Atiku has risen the bar of democracy, thereby showing and proving to the world that he is truly, in words and actions, a refined and principled democrat,” Mr Eze said.

He added that the former vice-president had “equalled the Saraki dynasty in political tolerance, sagacity, acceptability and cohesion.”

Tinubu criticised over opposition treatment

Abba Abubakar

Mr Eze used the moment to criticise President Bola Tinubu, accusing his administration of intimidating opposition figures and weakening democratic institutions.

“You are not a democrat when you use state institutions to coerce, intimidate, and witch-hunt opposition elements simply because you want to win an election,” he said.

In a veiled reference to the president, Mr Eze added:

“You must not be a President to be a democrat and being a President does not make one a democrat.”

He argued that Atiku’s conduct offers a lesson in leadership and tolerance in a diverse democracy like Nigeria.

Public and industry reactions

Some political observers say the episode underscores widening divisions within Nigeria’s political elite, while others see it as proof that political affiliation does not always follow family lines.

A Lagos-based political analyst, who spoke anonymously, said Atiku’s response “projects democratic confidence and contrasts sharply with Nigeria’s history of political intolerance.”

On social media, reactions have been mixed, with supporters applauding Atiku’s stance and critics questioning the broader implications for party loyalty.

Atiku: ‘The decision is personal’

Atiku Abubakar himself dismissed suggestions of political drama, stressing that his son acted independently.

He said:

“The decision of my son, Abba Abubakar, to join the APC is entirely personal. In a democracy, such choices are neither unusual nor alarming, even when family and politics intersect.

“As a democrat, I do not coerce my own children in matters of conscience, and I certainly will not coerce Nigerians. What truly concerns me is the poor governance of the APC and the severe economic and social hardships it has imposed on our people.

“I remain resolute in working with like-minded patriots to restore good governance and offer Nigerians a credible alternative that brings relief, hope, and progress.”

What’s next

As political alignments shift ahead of 2027, analysts expect more defections across party lines.

Whether such moves strengthen democracy or deepen political rivalry will likely shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the coming months.

The Ondo State Government has unveiled a detailed programme of events to celebrate the state’s 50th anniversary, with top economists and policy leaders set to headline key activities.

The celebrations, which run from 29 January to 3 February 2026, will combine reflection, worship, intellectual debate, and cultural showcases.

Why this matters

Ondo State was created in 1976 and the golden jubilee marks five decades of political, economic, and cultural development.

State officials say the anniversary is designed not only to celebrate the past, but also to spark conversations about the state’s future direction.

What the government says

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, announced the programme after a meeting of the anniversary committee.

He said the celebration aligns with “the vision of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to honour our past while firmly positioning Ondo State for a more prosperous and sustainable future.”

According to him, the activities are structured around “reflection, thanksgiving, intellectual engagement, cultural expression, and statewide participation.”

Key highlight: Ondo at 50 public lecture

A major feature of the anniversary is a public lecture scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, at The Dome in Akure.

The lecture, titled “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” will be delivered by Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee.

It will be chaired by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN.

Dr Fasoranti described the lecture as “a critical intellectual engagement” to examine the state’s history, assess its current socio-economic path, and offer ideas for sustainable development.

Expert voice and national relevance

Prof. Oyedele is a respected economist and tax expert who currently plays a central role in Nigeria’s fiscal and tax reform efforts.

“His leadership places him at the centre of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public finance, economic resilience, and inclusive growth,” Dr Fasoranti said.

He added that Prof. Oyedele, who hails from Ikaramu-Akoko in Ondo State, brings both professional expertise and personal insight to the discussion.

Another keynote voice

Also expected to speak at the lecture is Mrs Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Energy.

Mrs Verheijen has nearly 20 years’ experience across the gas and renewable energy sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa.

She is also the Founder and Chief Executive of the BFA Foundation, which supports scholarships for women and disadvantaged groups in high-growth sectors such as energy.

Full schedule of events

Activities begin on Thursday, 29 January 2026, with a World Press Conference at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Akure.

A Jumat Service will follow on Friday, 30 January, at the Central Mosque in Akure, while a Thanksgiving Service is scheduled for Sunday, 1 February, at St Thomas’ Anglican Church, Isinkan.

On the anniversary day, Tuesday, 3 February, Governor Aiyedatiwa will deliver a state broadcast at 7:00am.

Later that day, a state carnival will hold at the Ondo State Sports Stadium, featuring cultural displays, a carnival procession, mass choir performances, and the Sunshine Cultural Festival.

What’s next

The celebrations will conclude with a Gala and Award Night at The Dome, Akure, where individuals described as heroes and heroines of the state will be honoured.

Dr Fasoranti said the jubilee is “an opportunity to strengthen unity, showcase the rich cultural heritage of our state, and renew our collective commitment to progress and development.”

Public invitation

The Ondo State Government has invited residents, indigenes at home and in the diaspora, as well as partners and friends of the state, to participate in the celebrations.

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Dr Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, on his 60th birthday, praising what he described as landmark reforms under his leadership.

In a statement on Saturday, the President said Dr Adeniyi’s tenure had repositioned the Customs Service and strengthened Nigeria’s role in global trade.

Tinubu noted that the Customs chief’s efforts had helped transform the NCS into a more competitive and relevant institution.

He pointed to Dr Adeniyi’s election in June 2025 as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) as evidence of international confidence in Nigeria’s customs administration.

According to the President, the appointment has projected Nigeria and Africa on the global stage.

Tinubu also commended Dr Adeniyi’s leadership at the WCO, saying it has brought together customs administrations and key stakeholders to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He highlighted the use of the C-PACT platform to drive practical implementation of continent-wide trade reforms.

The President further referenced the integration of the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme in Nigeria, supported by the WCO.

He said the initiative has improved cargo clearance times at ports, strengthened partnerships with traders and supported revenue growth.

Tinubu added that the adoption of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards has enhanced the security and facilitation of global trade through Nigeria.

He said internal reforms within the NCS, including automation, digitisation and officer training, had delivered measurable improvements.

“These changes have translated into better trade facilitation and stronger revenue collections,” the President said.

The statement also credited Dr Adeniyi with improving community relations, surpassing revenue targets and enhancing border security.

Tinubu said Nigeria has benefited from stronger trade partnerships with other countries and multilateral institutions as a result of the reforms.

As the Customs boss marked his 60th birthday, the President prayed for continued strength, good health and wisdom for him to keep serving the nation.

The message was signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Why it matters

Customs reforms directly affect the cost of goods, speed of imports and exports, and government revenue, all of which have a daily impact on businesses and consumers.

Nigeria’s leadership role at the WCO also shapes how African trade rules are designed and implemented globally.

What’s next

Stakeholders will be watching whether the Customs Service sustains automation gains and deepens collaboration with traders.

Attention will also focus on how Nigeria uses its leadership position at the WCO to advance African trade interests.