馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Babachir Lawal resigns from ADC, alleges Atiku Abubakar rigged presidential primary
via Punch Nigeria8 min read
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has resigned from the African Democratic Congress, citing alleged manipulation of the party's recent presidential primary. Lawal announced his resignation on Monday, stating he could not remain in a party with a flawed primary process. He claimed that results were altered to favor former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his associates, with declared winners allegedly replaced even in areas where voting occurred. Lawal's decision to leave was also influenced by his unwillingness to be associated with a political structure that could influence future elections. The ADC primary, held on May 25, 2026, declared Atiku the winner with 1,846,370 votes. Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen placed second and third, respectively. Hayatu-Deen had previously raised concerns about vote manipulation but later ruled out challenging the outcome after a visit from Atiku, prioritizing party unity. Lawal plans to consult with political associates on his next steps and continues to oppose Atiku's presidential ambition.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The North East Stakeholders Forum for Sustainable Development has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving an N80 billion fund for flood control interventions across Nigeria. The forum, in a statement signed by National Chairman Murtala Jalingo and Secretary-General Danladi Bawa, described the intervention as timely and crucial for mitigating flood impacts in vulnerable communities, especially with warnings of increased flood risks due to persistent rainfall. They expressed confidence that the funds would be judiciously utilized to address the threat of flash floods. The group also commended Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission HYPPADEC, for his proactive measures and commitment to service delivery. They highlighted HYPPADEC's annual flood preparedness campaigns and various intervention projects in Gombe and Taraba states, including the provision of life jackets, operational boats, solar streetlights, boreholes, desilting of drainages, construction of classrooms, and support for indigent students. The forum noted that HYPPADEC, under Yelwa, has focused on improving residents' lives rather than solely on institutional development. This commendation comes as Nigerian authorities warn of severe flooding risks in low-lying and flood-prone areas due to heavy rainfall.
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Dr. Abiodun Oluseye, Rector of the Ogun State Institute of Technology OGITECH, Igbesa, reflected on the institution's 20-year journey, highlighting its growth from 52 students and two departments to over 10,000 students across 38 departments and 51 courses. He emphasized his administration's focus on development, staff welfare, and infrastructure, including modern classrooms, a new library, and a laboratory complex. Dr. Oluseye also detailed the establishment of a robotics and innovation center, where students assemble and fly drones, and the institution's commitment to providing value-added certificates alongside traditional diplomas. He stressed the importance of technical education for national development, advocating for more polytechnics and increased funding, while addressing challenges like discrimination against polytechnic graduates and land encroachment. The Rector praised the National Education Loan Fund NELFUND for its positive impact on student access to education, noting that about 200 OGITECH students have benefited, with 400 more on a waiting list. He also mentioned OGITECH's use of e-voting for student elections and a mobile application for timetables and communication, showcasing its ICT-based approach. Dr. Oluseye affirmed the institution's zero-tolerance policy against anti-social vices and lecturer misconduct, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment.