A House of Representatives aspirant of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, for the Jega/Gwandu/Aliero Federal Constituency in Kebbi State, Aminullahi Mustapha, has resigned from the party and defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Mustapha announced his resignation in a letter dated July 5, 2026, addressed to the ADC Ward Chairman of Magaji B Ward in Jega Local Government Area.

In the letter, he said the decision followed consultations with his supporters, stakeholders and other associates across the Jega/Gwandu/Aliero Federal Constituency.

According to him, his decision to join the APC was driven by his commitment to the development of the constituency and his belief that the ruling party aligns with his political vision.

Mustapha expressed appreciation to the ADC for the opportunity to serve under its platform and thanked members for their support during his time in the party.

The former ADC aspirant, who is an ally of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, was later received into the APC by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.

He was received alongside thousands of his supporters who also joined the ruling party.

The defection comes amid a series of political realignments in Kebbi State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, Rivers State Chapter, has announced the nomination of David Amapakaye Okumgba as its Deputy Governorship Candidate for the 2027 Rivers State governorship election.

The announcement was contained in a statement signed on Monday by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi.

The party described Okumgba as a seasoned administrator, accomplished businessman and experienced political leader.

It added that his commitment to public service and democratic values has earned him widespread respect within and beyond Rivers State. 

The statement said Okumgba has demonstrated exceptional leadership in both the private and political sectors.

According to the ADC, Okumgba was nominated on account of his wealth of political experience, organisational capacity, interpersonal skills, and deep understanding of Rivers State’s socio-political landscape.

He will run alongside the party’s governorship candidate, Gabriel Baritulem Pidomson.

The statement added, “Together, this ticket represents competence, experience, inclusiveness, and a shared vision for a new Rivers State founded on good governance, accountability, economic growth, security, and equal opportunities for all.

“The Party is confident that the Pidomson–Okumgba ticket reflects the aspirations of the people of Rivers State and offers the leadership, competence, and integrity required to move our State forward.”

The ADC called on party members, supporters, and the people of Rivers State to rally behind the Pidomson–Okumgba ticket with enthusiasm.

By Enitan Abdultawab

Social commentator and institutional reforms advocate, Segun Awosanya, popularly known as Segalink, has argued that Nigerian activists who are seeking political offices in the 2027 general election won’t necessarily make a difference in governance.

The reform advocate maintained that activists often lose the moral authority that initially made them agents of change when they get into politics.

In an interview with Vanguard News’ Politics Hub, Segalink maintained that meaningful impact does not solely depend on holding political office, insisting that individuals can transform society from whatever position they occupy.

According to him, those who genuinely desire change should already be making a difference without waiting to secure political appointments or elective positions.

“They cannot make a difference. If they can, they should be able to make a difference from where they are,” he said.

Using himself as an example, the activist noted that he has consistently contributed to national development without pursuing political power.

“I am not a politician, but I am making a difference from where I am. I am not searching for power or political appointments, but you can trace the trajectory of what I have been doing over the years and see the importance and impact in real time in society,” he stated.

Segalink also criticized what he described as the rise of online political “cults” and echo chambers, alleging that some supporters have become more interested in defending personalities than engaging with ideas.

According to him, there are “certain impressionable Nigerians” who have formed online groups that attack anyone unwilling to lead them or exploit their loyalty for political gain.

Without mentioning any political figure directly in the remarks, he urged Nigerians to recognize their individual responsibility in nation-building instead of waiting for politicians or influencers to dictate their actions.

“I am simply saying that you have a power within you, a responsibility in your society. You can make a difference in your country without necessarily needing someone to tell you who to follow, who to abuse, or who to vote for or not,” he said.

Segalink stressed that lasting national development begins with citizens taking responsibility for their communities, arguing that genuine leadership is demonstrated through sustained service rather than the pursuit of political office.