
Former lawmaker Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna Central, has acquired the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms from the All Progressives Congress to contest the Kaduna Central Senatorial District seat. This action marks his official entry into the upcoming electoral race. Sani, a human rights activist and politician, previously served in the Senate for Kaduna Central and is recognized in Nigerian politics. His participation is anticipated to influence the dynamics of the contest in the district due to his grassroots support and political background. Observers and party stakeholders suggest this development could increase competition among those seeking the APC ticket in Kaduna Central. The sale of forms is scheduled from April 25 to May 2, 2026, with submissions closing on May 4, 2026. Aspirant screening is set for May 6 to May 9, 2026, covering various political offices. Primary elections will commence on May 15, 2026, and conclude on May 23, 2026.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadIbrahim Mohammed, 32, was among approximately 720 former jihadist fighters who recently completed a state government rehabilitation program in Maiduguri, Borno State. This initiative is part of non-military efforts to counter the insurgency that began with the Boko Haram uprising in 2009, which has displaced over 3 million people and killed tens of thousands. Mohammed decided to surrender after receiving a video message from his mother. Participants, including women and children, spent months at a camp learning vocational skills such as car repairs and tailoring. Since its inception in 2021, the program has trained at least 9,680 individuals, according to Sabi Abdullahi Ishaq, security adviser to the Borno state governor. Some former fighters, like Mustapha Kaka, 36, stated they were misled and that the violence had little to do with genuine religious preaching. Idris Abdulkadir, 44, a former fighter with ISWAP, expressed regret over his lost educational opportunities. While the program offers a chance for former fighters to rebuild their lives, some critics, like Adebayo, note potential flaws, such as the risk of granting blanket amnesty to individuals who committed atrocities.

The Shehu Gabam-led Social Democratic Party SDP paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, on Democracy Day. In a statement issued by its factional National Publicity Secretary, Zakari Nadabo, the party called for credible elections and stronger democratic institutions in Nigeria. Nadabo highlighted June 12's significance to both Nigeria and the SDP, as Abiola won the 1993 election under the party's banner. He also honored pro-democracy activists, civil society groups, journalists, and ordinary Nigerians who contributed to restoring democratic governance. The SDP emphasized that Democracy Day should be a time for national reflection and recommitment to democratic values, urging Nigerians and political leaders to embrace principles like justice, inclusion, accountability, transparency, national unity, and respect for the will of the people, which inspired the June 12 struggle. The party reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic values, national development, social justice, and the welfare of all Nigerians, and encouraged active and peaceful participation in the democratic process, while urging leaders to prioritize national interest.

Yaya Tongo, the representative for Kwami/Funakaye/Gombe Federal Constituency of Gombe State in the House of Representatives, has passed away. Tongo, who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2023 and later defected to the African Democratic Congress in March 2026, died on Friday, June 12, 2026. Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, announced the news on his verified X handle. Pantami stated that he had visited Tongo earlier that day at Nizamiye Hospital, Abuja, where the lawmaker was receiving treatment. He described Tongo's condition as critical during his visit and later received news of his passing at the same hospital. Pantami offered prayers for the deceased and his family, noting the spiritual significance of passing away on a Friday. As of the report's filing, the House of Representatives had not yet released an official statement regarding Tongo's death.