Nigerian Newspapers: 10 Things You Need to Know Sunday Morning

• The APC adopts President Bola Tinubu and three Governors for 2027 elections.
• Comrade Joe Ajaero warns against changing labor issues legislation.
• The National Assembly plans to transmit constitutional review reports to State Assemblies.
• Solomon Dalung claims 2027 elections will be a battle against Tinubu’s government.
• The Presidency advises the ADC to focus on 2031, not 2027 elections.
• An Islamic cleric was arrested in Osun for abusing a minor.
• A tragic accident on Ijebu-Ode-Ibadan Expressway leads to multiple fatalities.
• The Nigerian Army arrests a soldier related to a suspicious death.

APC Stakes Its Claim for 2027 Elections

In a significant political development, the South South region of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially adopted President Bola Tinubu alongside three Governors as their chosen candidates for the upcoming 2027 general elections. The selected Governors are Sheriff Oborevwori from Delta State, Umo Eno from Akwa Ibom, and Bassey Otu from Cross River. This endorsement signals a strong political strategy as the ruling party prepares for the next electoral cycle, asserting that these candidates are believed to be well-positioned to lead the region in the future.

Labour Leader Opposes Legislative Changes

Amid these political maneuvers, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joe Ajaero, has issued a serious warning directed toward the National Assembly. Ajaero is opposed to any attempts to shift labor matters, including the minimum wage, from the exclusive legislative list of the Federal Government to a concurrent list. His remarks came during a National Administrative Council meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, emphasizing that removing such critical labor issues from federal control could jeopardize workers’ rights and benefits.

Nation Faces Political Tension Ahead of Elections

Turning to legislative actions, the National Assembly has announced plans to transmit the ongoing constitutional review report to the 36 State Assemblies prior to December 2025. They are urging stakeholders to actively engage with their respective State Assemblies to ensure successful passage. The parliament indicated that without their approval, it would be challenging to achieve a comprehensive review of the 1999 Constitution. Also noteworthy is a comment from former Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, who asserted that the next elections will see a significant clash between the electorate and President Tinubu’s administration, insisting that Tinubu is likely to face re-election challenges.

Presidency Urges Coalitions to Wait Longer

In a rather intriguing response to coalition politics, the Presidency has advised members of the newly created African Democratic Congress (ADC) to redirect their attention from the 2027 elections to those scheduled for 2031. Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare highlighted the importance of patience, suggesting that political aspirants should await President Tinubu’s two terms before seeking their chance in government. Meanwhile, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) clarified that its 2023 presidential candidate, Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, does not possess the NNPP platform to contest in the forthcoming elections, a statement that reflects the shifting dynamics within Nigerian politics.

Community Faces Shocking Crimes and Accidents

On the ground, news from Osun State indicates that police have arrested an Islamic cleric following serious allegations of abuse against a minor. This incident sparked a public uproar as local residents protested the alleged crime and took action against the suspect. In related news, tragedy struck on the Ijebu-Ode-Ibadan Expressway where a severe accident resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Reports state that at least ten individuals lost their lives, while three others were critically injured after a vehicle crashed from the Omu bridge. The horrific accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the region.

Military Faces Accountability Demands

Lastly, the Nigerian Army confirmed the arrest of a Lance Corporal in connection with the suspicious death of phone repairer Alkasim Ibrahim in Adamawa State on Friday. This incident has incited public outrage and called for transparency and accountability from military entities. As these events unfold, it is clear that Nigeria is navigating a complex political and social landscape, where governance, public safety, and citizen engagement are increasingly under scrutiny. This narrative will continue to evolve as we approach the 2027 election period, setting the stage for significant changes ahead.

In summary, the weekend news highlights essential developments in Nigeria’s political landscape, including the APC’s candidate endorsements for the 2027 elections and labor leaders’ opposition to legislative changes regarding worker rights. Furthermore, the arrest of an Islamic cleric and tragic road incidents reflect the pressing social issues facing communities. As the narrative unfolds, citizens and political actors alike are gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal election and beyond.