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APC Congress: Fresh Crisis Over 60-40 Sharing Formula

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5 years ago

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  • Crisis festers in Lagos, Osun, Kwara, Zamfara, Ekiti, Ogun, Rivers, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, others

  • Tension over marching order on petitions

IN what appears a definite stand, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has directed the appeals panels set up last week to work on petitions arising from the just-concluded controversial ward congress, to strictly work with the party’s constitution and congress guidelines in resolving the logjam in many state chapters. 

The directive, which is contained in the letter of appointment handed over to chairmen of the panels, is already generating fresh tension in many state chapters of the party where parallel congress took place, with the crisis in the Osun State chapter boiling over at the weekend.

The order to stick with constitutionality and due process is bound to upset a lot of applecart in many state chapters, where groups considered to be in the mainstream may end up losing out, considering prevalent allegations of dominant factions not abiding by the guidelines in arriving at their victories.

While the national leadership of the party, led by Yobe State governor, Mai Mala Buni, encouraged consensus arrangement to avoid a rancorous congress, it added a caveat that all tendencies within the party in each state chapter should have a buy-in.

According to Buni, where consensus is not agreed on, factions are to go for elective congress. Allegations of dominant factions cornering the entire exercise, without consensus agreement and not resorting to election, have rent the space since the exercise was conducted.

In giving the marching order, APC said, “you are expected to adhere strictly to the guidelines of the exercise and the constitution, in receiving and determination of complaints arising from the ward congresses.”

The appointment letter, sighted by Sunday Tribune, was signed by the Secretary, Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Mr John James Akpanudoedehe and dated August 12, 2021.

The full letter reads: “In furtherance of the provisions of the guidelines of the ward congresses, as adopted by the Caretaker/ Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee. “The chairman of the CECPC, Mai Mala Buni, has approved your nomination as the chairman of the ward congresses appeals committee for …(redacted) state. “As a responsible organisation, the party is not oblivious of the fact that with the sheer magnitude and scope of the ward congresses, there may be persons who may be dissatisfied with the exercise, hence this committee.

“You are expected to adhere strictly to the guidelines of the exercise and the constitution, in receiving and determination of complaints arising from the ward congresses.”

Despite the resolve to go constitutional, Sunday Tribune can also report that behind-the-scenes moves for peace and reconciliation in the party may birth a political solution to the crisis in the state chapters.

The planned masterstroke being reportedly fine-tuned by the embattled national leadership of the party is expected to harmonise multiple ward executive lists, submitted or being paraded, in each of the state chapters, where factions held parallel exercise.

While the appeal committees would still listen to aggrieved caucuses within the party in state chapters, available insider information pointed at the committees already armed with a general mandate to accommodate all major tendencies in feuding state chapters.

Appeals committees’ final reports are expected to include recommendations for power sharing by feuding factions.

Sunday Tribune learnt a 60:40 ratio is on the card for consideration. The national leadership will either ratify or reject suggestions from the appeals panels. Factions favoured as the mainstream groups are expected to take the lion’s share, after the review of complaints from each state chapter. It was learnt that the party is working to delegitimise winner-takes-all approach for peace to reign in the conduct of the concluding part of the exercise.

While the proposition is said to have been mentioned to the national leader of the party, President Muhammadu Buhari, a source noted that nothing was conclusive, as the party waits on him for final approval.

Buhari returned to the country Friday night from medical tourism to London, where another national leader of the party, former Lagos State governor, Senator Bola Tinubu, is recuperating after an alleged knee operation. Political Action Committees (PACs) affiliated to the former governor have launched a nationwide campaign for him to succeed Buhari, who visited him in London on Thursday, before his departure the next day.

Lagos State, the political base of Tinubu, however, is one of the state chapters hardest hit by the intra-party crisis rocking the ruling party.

Coming off the ward congress, four factions emerged in the state with three submitting independent elected executive members’ lists. While Tinubu’s faction is holding on to the mainstream through the caretaker committee led by Mr Tunde Balogun, there is a major bloc within the party known as APC Democrats led by a former ally of Tinubu, Fouad Oki. Also in the loop is an emerging group known as Lagos4Lagos led by Mr Olajide Adediran, a gubernatorial aspirant for the 2023 election in the state.

He is said to be a protégé of another former governor of the state and allegedly being funded by a former governor of a neighbouring state. The agenda of his group is to ensure an indigene of the state succeeds Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2023.

The fourth breakaway faction known as the Conscience group is led by Mr Moshood Salvador, a former state chairman of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He defected to the ruling party, following a protracted leadership tussle in Lagos PDP, only to claim being sidelined by chieftains of the ruling party.

Apart from the Oki group, all others submitted results from their parallel congress to the party.

Feelers from the mainstream group, however, suggested total refusal of the proposition, with accompanying threat to quit the party, if the national leadership should go ahead with the plan. Oki’s faction is yet to make its position known officially as the group says it will approach the appeal panel next week with its case and congress result.

Apart from Lagos, the proposed political solution is also expected to encounter strong pushback in party chapters in Ogun, Rivers, Kwara, Osun, Delta, Akwa-Ibom, Zamfara, Anambra, among others.

In Ogun, former governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has refused to accept the political leadership of the governor, Mr Dapo Abiodun. While Amosun is favoured at the centre because of his strong affinity with Buhari, Abiodun enjoys the backing of Tinubu who shepherded him to the governorship seat, despite stiff opposition from then governor, Amosun.

Political watchers are certain Amosun won’t play second fiddle to Abiodun, despite the latter’s hold on the party in the state.

In Rivers, the two dominant figures in the state chapter of the party which is in opposition to the ruling PDP, Mr Magnus Abe and Minister of Transport, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, have moved from being opponents to political enemies. All efforts at reconciliation have proved abortive. The congress has further widened the gulf, putting any political solution in jeopardy.

In Kwara, where APC is the ruling party, the governor, Mr Abdulraham Abdulrazaq and his erstwhile backer, Minister of Information and Culture, Mr Lai Mohammed, have parted ways, irreversibly, according to insider information.

Apart from holding parallel ward congress, supporters of the minister have begun mass movement into another political platform, possibly foreclosing any reconciliation effort. Apart from the public spat about campaign funds, amid allegations of corruption, one of the parties to the feud has reportedly vowed not to have anything to do with the other side.

In the 2023 governorship contest, a three-horse race is likely, with PDP and the breakaway faction giving Mr Abdulrazaq a run for his strategy. In Osun, the festering crisis between the governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola and his predecessor-in-office, Minister of Interior, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, isn’t showing any signal of slowing down.

As a member of the caretaker running the national office of the party, Oyetola is favoured against the minister and even if a rapprochement is worked out on 60:40 ratio, the amount of bad blood already generated by their disagreement may not be easily washed away by a political solution.

There are fears the minister’s group could play the spoiler when Oyetola is up for re-election next year.

In Delta State, where APC is in opposition to the ruling PDP, Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, has beaten his competitors like Minister of State for Labour, Mr Festus Keyamo, to the diadem, staying in strong control of the party amid his rumoured governorship interest in 2023. If he concedes to the political solution, he would be seen to be gracious unto others who lost out in a contest they claimed never took place.

Similar scenario is playing out in places like Anambra, where it is Andy Uba against Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige, in Akwa-Ibom, where the caretaker secretary Mr Akpanudoedehe, is being heckled by other factions, the most outspoken, being the group loyal to former governor and Niger Delta minister, Godswill Akpabio.

Culled from the Tribune News Nigeria

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Education

Professor Josephine Onyido Earns Prestigious Nigerian Academy of Education Induction

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2 weeks ago

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September 26, 2026

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University of Port Harcourt scholar will be inducted into Nigeria’s apex education academy in Abuja, marking another milestone in a career spanning teaching, research, leadership, mentorship and advocacy

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Professor Josephine Azuka Onyido, an accomplished scholar and academic leader at the University of Port Harcourt, will be inducted into the Nigerian Academy of Education on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in recognition of her contributions to the advancement of education.

The ceremony, scheduled for the Conference Hall of the National Commission for Colleges of Education in Abuja, places Onyido among scholars recognized for sustained contributions to education, research, and academic development in Nigeria.

A Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations at the University of Port Harcourt, Onyido has built a career encompassing teaching, research, administration, mentorship, curriculum development, and institutional service.

She described the forthcoming recognition as both an honor and a renewed obligation to education. “I receive this recognition with profound gratitude and humility. My journey in education has always been driven by the belief that scholarship must extend beyond the classroom and contribute meaningfully to society. This induction is not simply a personal achievement; it strengthens my responsibility to continue advancing quality education, mentoring future scholars, and promoting opportunities for women and girls. I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues, students, and everyone who has been part of this journey.”

Onyido earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education (English), a Master of Education, and a Ph.D. in Sociology of Education. She is also a permanent member of the University of Port Harcourt Senate. Her scholarly record includes more than 90 journal articles, book chapters and Sociology of Education Made Easy, a textbook developed to make concepts in the discipline more accessible to students.

Much of her research examines the intersection of education and society, with particular emphasis on gender, women’s empowerment, educational development, social justice and the rights of women and girls. Her work advocates translating academic research into policies and practices that expand educational opportunities and strengthen human-capital development.

Beyond research, Onyido has occupied several academic leadership positions. She served as Acting Head of the Department of Educational Foundations from 2021 to 2023 and has worked as the Departmental Coordinator of Postgraduate Programs, the Anti-Plagiarism Coordinator, the Academic Adviser, and the Editor of the Port Harcourt Journal of Education Studies.

Her influence also extends beyond her university. She has served as an external examiner for several institutions and has participated as a resource person for the National Teachers’ Institute, the University of Port Harcourt, the Centers for Higher Education and Sandwich Programs, and the National Universities Commission verification exercise.

Internationally, Onyido represented the Niger Delta Development Commission at the African Women in Leadership Conference in Kigali, Rwanda, expanding her engagement with issues of women’s leadership, empowerment, and social transformation.

She belongs to several professional organizations, including the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, the Association of Sociologists of Education of Nigeria, and the International Association for Gender Equity.

Her academic and community work have earned numerous recognitions, including the Millennium Development Ambassador Award, Lecturer of the Year, Outstanding Project Supervisor, and Professional Service awards.

Yet Onyido’s story also reaches deeply into heritage and service. She is the great-great-granddaughter of King Josiah Constance Ockiya, MINGI VII, Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom and Supreme King of Brass. Her great-grandfather, Rev. Daniel Ockiya, translated the Bible into the Nembe language.

A committed Catholic and Jerusalem pilgrim, she has also served in church and community leadership positions and was recognized by the Catholic Women Organization of the Port Harcourt Diocese as a “Quintessential Woman.”

For Onyido, the November 4 induction represents more than another distinction on an extensive academic résumé. It recognizes a career built around an enduring principle: education achieves its greatest value when knowledge is transformed into opportunity, service, and social progress.

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Houston

PCNI Elevates Chief Dr. Emmanuel Opara to Patron in Historic Ihiagwa Investiture

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2 weeks ago

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September 26, 2026

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Sugar Land People’s Club leaders celebrate their First Vice Chairman’s December 22 investiture, describing the honor as recognition of leadership, scholarship, service, and commitment to the enduring ideals of the People’s Club

HOUSTON, TEXAS — All roads will lead to Ihiagwa, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, on December 22, 2026, as members, associates, and well-wishers of People’s Club of Nigeria International gather for the Patronship Investiture of Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Uzoma Opara, First Vice Chairman of the Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI).

The ceremony will mark another milestone for the Sugar Land branch, historically recognized within the organization as its First International Branch, and will elevate one of its senior officers into the distinguished circle of PCNI patrons.

Since its inception in 1971, the People’s Club of Nigeria has developed into an international social and philanthropic organization with branches in Nigeria, the United States, and Europe. Its tradition emphasizes fellowship, community service, and the principles of Love, Unity, and Service.

Within that tradition, patronship carries significance beyond a ceremonial title. Patrons are expected to serve as senior advisers, custodians of institutional values, and respected voices in sustaining the organization’s heritage and direction. The recognition is traditionally associated with sustained service, leadership, and commitment to the Club and society.

For Opara, the honor also recognizes a professional life extending far beyond community leadership.

An academic and technology specialist, Opara’s scholarly interests span cybersecurity, digital and media forensics, artificial intelligence, and Agentic AI. His research includes digital forensic investigation, incident response and threat analysis, memory analysis, advanced-adversary containment and intrusion detection, including applications of Python programming.

His work also engages with memory forensics and investigative technologies, as well as the offensive and defensive dimensions of cybersecurity, commonly characterized as Red Team and Blue Team operations.

Opara is a Fellow of the International Information Management Association (FIIMA) and serves as an Associate Editor of the Journal of International Technology and Information Management (JITIM).

Reflecting on the forthcoming investiture, Opara described the recognition as a responsibility rather than simply another distinction.

“I receive this honor with profound gratitude and humility. Patronship represents a responsibility to protect the values that have sustained People’s Club for generations: love, unity, service, and genuine fellowship. Whatever we achieve professionally becomes more meaningful when we use our knowledge, experience, and resources to strengthen our communities and create opportunities for others. I look forward to serving the Club at an even greater level.”

Grand Patron of SLPCNI, Hon. Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu, said Opara’s elevation reflects the leadership qualities expected of those entrusted with preserving the organization’s legacy. “Chief Dr. Opara represents the combination of intellectual accomplishment, community service, and organizational commitment that the People’s Club should continue to encourage. Patronship is not merely about recognition; it carries an obligation to guide, support and protect the institution. We are proud that another leader from our Sugar Land family has earned this important honor.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman of SLPCNI, said the investiture demonstrates the depth of leadership within the Sugar Land branch. “This is a proud moment for Sugar Land People’s Club. Chief Dr. Opara has distinguished himself through service, scholarship, and dedication to our organization. His investiture strengthens our branch while reinforcing our connection to the national and international People’s Club family. We congratulate him and look forward to celebrating with him in Ihiagwa.”

The December gathering is expected to draw PCNI leaders, patrons, members, family, friends, and community representatives from Nigeria and abroad. Beyond the pageantry of the ceremony, however, Opara’s investiture carries a broader institutional message: leadership within the People’s Club is ultimately measured by service.

On December 22, Ihiagwa will host the celebration. But for Sugar Land, the occasion will also be a celebration of one of its own—a scholar, technology professional, and community leader entering a new chapter of responsibility in the People’s Club tradition.

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Houston

Membership Surge Continues as Dr. Nkem Ugwu Joins People’s Club

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3 weeks ago

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September 20, 2026

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Following a successful induction ceremony, the First International Branch continues to attract new members drawn to its tradition of friendship, service, culture, and community

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS — The Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI) is continuing its membership expansion following its recently concluded induction ceremony, with Dr. Nkem Ugwu becoming one of the latest community members to join the organization.

Ugwu, a Sugar Land resident originally from Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria, is an entrepreneur and mother of three sons, a mother-in-law, and a grandmother. She describes service to others, family, and community engagement as important parts of her personal and professional life.

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu addressing the September Conference of the Sugar Land PCNI

Her membership comes on the heels of the branch’s successful bi-annual induction ceremony, during which 16 new members were formally sworn in by PCNI National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke. The celebration attracted national leaders, patrons, and members representing branches from across the People’s Club network.

Photo from left: Hon. Chief Sir Michael Okeke; Hon. Anaeto Okakpu “Oranwezuluaku”; Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu; Hon. Dr. Nkem Ugwu ; Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman; Hon. Chief, Sir Basil Mbuba; Hon. Chief Sir Dr. Uche Egbuchuam “Akudo World Wide.”

Ugwu said joining the organization provides an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships while contributing to its mission.

“I am truly excited and honored to join the prestigious People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugar Land Branch. I look forward to getting to know fellow members, building lasting friendships, and becoming actively involved in this vibrant and welcoming community. I am especially drawn to the Club’s tradition of fellowship, service, and mutual support, and I hope to contribute my experience, energy, and passion for serving others to its continued growth.”

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu welcomed Ugwu, describing continued interest in membership as encouraging for the historic First International Branch.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe and Hon. Ndidi Chidume

“When people of accomplishment and community spirit continue to identify with our organization, it tells us that the values upon which People’s Club was built remain relevant. We welcome Dr. Ugwu and look forward to the experience and fellowship she brings to our family.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman, said the branch’s recent induction helped showcase an organization that continues to combine Nigerian cultural heritage with community engagement in Houston.

“Our successful induction created tremendous enthusiasm, but our focus goes beyond ceremonies. We are building a stronger organization rooted in friendship, responsibility and service. Dr. Ugwu’s decision to join reflects that continuing momentum.”

One of the meeting hosts, Hon. Professor Keih George, introduces the co-meeting hosts.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe said the branch remains interested in individuals prepared to participate actively in its programs and fellowship.

“Membership is about belonging, but it is equally about participation and contribution. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ugwu and other prospective members who share the principles and aspirations of People’s Club.”

For SLPCNI, the growing interest following its induction represents another chapter in the evolution of a branch with a special place in the organization’s history.

And for Ugwu, it marks the beginning of a new journey—one centered on friendship, community, and service.

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