Several chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Katsina state have announced their intention to join a newly-formed opposition coalition aimed at challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
The PDP leaders, led by Dr. Mustapha Inuwa, made the declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting in Katsina on Tuesday.

Inuwa, a former Secretary to the Katsina State Government, confirmed that discussions for the formation of the coalition, which includes opposition parties like the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and People’s Redemption Party (PRP), have reached an advanced stage.

Though Inuwa did not explicitly mention joining Atiku Abubakar’s coalition, sources within the party revealed that the plans to align with the former PDP presidential candidate are finalised.

“We have commenced discussions with members of the NNPP, PRP, and even some prominent APC members to form a coalition for the 2027 election,” Inuwa stated.

Inuwa further added that some APC members, holding key positions within the federal and state governments, were supporting this movement.

The coalition’s members, comprising politicians from within and outside Katsina, are expected to soon finalize their choice of a political party to rally behind in the lead-up to the 2027 polls.

Prominent attendees of the meeting included former National Secretary of the PDP, Senator Umar Ibrahim Tsauri, former Senator representing Daura Zone, Ahmed Babba Kaiya, and Ahmed Musa Yar’adua.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has dismissed allegations that her recent visit to her hometown was a political gathering. She clarified that her trip on Monday, April 1, 2025, was purely to celebrate Sallah with her constituents and had no political undertones.

Her response follows claims that she paid attendees to be present at the event—an assertion she described as baseless and misleading. “This was a celebration of unity and shared love, not politics,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated. “The people who welcomed me did so of their own free will, and I deeply appreciate their sacrifice.”

Despite a government-imposed restriction on vehicular movement, thousands of supporters trekked long distances through bush paths to receive her with a heroic welcome. The senator, who arrived via chopper, was met with overwhelming cheers, reflecting the deep-rooted affection her people have for her. Some supporters were even attacked on their way but remained resolute in their desire to celebrate with her.

Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the crowd consisted of residents from the five local government areas that make up Kogi Central, representing less than 3 percent of her overall supporters. She noted that the turnout was a testament to her enduring influence in the region.

Beyond the celebration, the senator’s visit also highlighted her contributions to the district’s development. The very road where the people gathered to welcome her was one she had facilitated and constructed years before becoming a senator. Her tenure has been marked by a strong commitment to infrastructure, empowerment programs, and social welfare initiatives that have transformed many lives.

Expressing gratitude for the massive show of support, Akpoti-Uduaghan reassured her constituents of her dedication to their welfare. “Your presence here today, despite the challenges, humbles me,” she said. “It only strengthens my resolve to continue working tirelessly for the progress of our land.”

The grand reception further reaffirmed her popularity in Kogi Central, countering the narratives pushed by political detractors.

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has inaugurated a new state security supervisory committee to tame insecurity in the state.

Soludo’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, disclosed this in a press statement on Wednesday.

Opara described the move as a decisive step and a testament to the governor’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents in the state.

According to him, the committee, comprising representatives from various government agencies, traditional rulers and local government leaders, is tasked with registering and monitoring the activities of the units of Agunechemba, among other responsibilities.

He said, “This collective approach to addressing insecurity is a welcome development, as it recognises that crime and social unrest require a multifaceted solution.

“Governor Soludo’s emphasis on innovative solutions to security challenges is music to the ears of Anambra residents, who have since heaved a sigh of relief.

“The committee’s role in fostering collaboration between government agencies and the community is crucial in creating a safer environment for all citizens.

“This development comes on the heels of Governor Soludo’s unveiling of the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 and the launch of ‘Operation Udo Ga-Achi,’ a special security operation aimed at bolstering the state’s security framework.”

He said these initiatives demonstrate the governor’s resolve to tackle insecurity head-on and restore peace to the state.

“In the last few months after the launch of ‘Udo Ga-Achi’, the efforts of the new security forces are yielding the desired results. One thing is clear: Governor Soludo is taking the right steps to address the security concerns of Anambra residents.

“As the state embarks on this new journey, one can’t help but feel a sense of optimism that Anambra will finally become the safest state in Nigeria, free from the scourge of insecurity,” he added.