At the heart of any successful political coalition lies a robust understanding of party strength, often demonstrated through recent electoral results. In political discourse, party strength encompasses factors such as voter loyalty, geographic spread, and the capacity to mobilize resources. When parties form coalitions, it is typically to amplify their collective influence and increase their chances of electoral success. This is especially relevant in a diverse and populous country like Nigeria, where regional and ethnic dynamics strongly shape political loyalties. By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman Coalitions have become an important feature of Nigerian politics, enabling parties to navigate the challenges of governance…
Author: TheStories
A 34-year-old ex-convict, Abdulmalik Abdullahi, has been convicted and sentenced to a total of four years in a correctional facility by Chief Magistrate Hajiya Rahamatu Adamu Gado of Minna Chief Magistrate Court No. 2. By Uthman Baba-Sirajdeen, Minna Abdullahi was found guilty on four counts of criminal conspiracy, criminal trespass, mischief, and theft. According to Police Prosecutor, Inspector Aliyu Yakubu Kuta, the offences are punishable under Sections 60, 348, 327, and 283 of the Niger State Penal Code Law, 2025. The Police First Information Report (FIR), marked MN/CM/CR/32/2025 and obtained by our reporter, stated that on June 1, 2025, at…
The political atmosphere of Nigeria is at a critical juncture as opposition leaders, faced with increasing defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), have united under the banner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to mount a challenge against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections. This coalition, while promising, raises questions about its viability and potential effectiveness in unseating an entrenched ruling party. The phenomenon of political coalitions has gained traction across Africa over the past two decades, showcasing both successes and failures. This essay explores the dynamics of opposition coalitions, particularly in the context of Nigeria,…
Social media has transformed the way we share ideas. With just a few keystrokes, anyone can comment on national issues, spark debate, or provide valuable insights that inform public opinion and even research. Platforms now teem with endless discussions—political, professional, and personal. Yet, ironically, those who contribute frequently are often dismissed with a casual jab: “You write too much.” But let’s be honest—what people mean is that you talk too much, only this time, in text. This label isn’t usually worn as a badge of honour. It often carries a subtle note of contempt. Some say it proudly: “I don’t…
It’s often during moments of hardship that we discover just how fragmented our empathy has become. In Nigeria, when university lecturers raise their voices against delayed salaries, neglected welfare, or crumbling educational infrastructure, the usual public chorus returns with a familiar rebuke: “Weren’t you the ones who helped politicians rig elections?” By Bagudu Mohammed This accusation has become a convenient shorthand—a sweeping judgment tossed at an entire academic community whose crime is serving as returning officers during elections. Now, amid the deafening silence of unpaid wages dragging well past the 10th of each month—yes, even during sacred holidays like Eid…
There is renewed energy and hope surrounding Atiku Abubakar with the formation of the new coalition—an understandable sentiment. The heightened enthusiasm and optimism on Atiku’s face nearly betray the inner mindset of a man convinced that his time has come and that nothing can stop him. This surge of confidence is largely due to the calibre of high-profile politicians who see the coalition as a viable alternative and are placing their faith in it. Most importantly, Atiku’s optimism draws strength from the national mood, one filled with frustration over economic hardship. Many Nigerians have lost patience and are now desperate…
Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State has extended heartfelt congratulations to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State following the Supreme Court’s affirmation of Okpebholo’s election as the duly elected governor of Edo State. The apex court recently dismissed the appeal filed by Ighodalo, ruling it lacked merit and thereby upholding Okpebholo’s mandate. Governor Aliyu hailed the verdict as a significant triumph not only for the people of Edo State but also for the democratic process in Nigeria. “This judgment is a testament to the independence and integrity of the Nigerian judiciary,” Governor Aliyu remarked. “It sends a strong message to…
The West African Association for Cross-Border Trade in Food, Agricultural, Livestock, Forestry and Fisheries Products (WACTAH) is organizing a training workshop on the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) from July 10 to 11, 2025, in Lomé, Togo. The workshop, which will host around fifty participants mainly from Togo, is part of the implementation of the ECOWAS Agricultural Trade Programme (EAT), funded by German Cooperation through GIZ, with WACTAH as an implementing partner. The workshop aims to help professional organizations better understand the ETLS, master its procedures, and fully benefit from the opportunities it offers. The objective of the training is…
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has cleared ₦22 billion from the ₦48 billion backlog of unpaid gratuities and death benefits inherited from the previous administration. This is in a decisive move to ease the burden of pensioners and families of deceased civil servants. The development follows the approval and release of a fourth tranche of payments amounting to ₦6 billion, bringing the total amount disbursed under the current administration to ₦22 billion. Earlier tranches included ₦5 billion in the first phase, and ₦6 billion each in the second and third rounds of payment. The State Government, in a…
In the field of political communication, few figures possess the loyalty and dedication exhibited by Malam Garba Shehu, the former Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity. As the voice of an administration that navigated the complexities of governance in Nigeria for eight arduous years, Shehu emerged not only as a spokesperson but as a custodian of the narrative surrounding Buhari’s presidency. By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman Almost two years after the conclusion of that administration, Shehu’s commitment to his former boss and the ideals they championed is encapsulated in his recently launched book, “According to the President: Lessons…