Politics

Don’t allow non-members to influence removal of Speakers – Nigerian Conference of Speakers warns lawmakers

Published

1 year ago

February 15, 2025

The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures has advised members of Houses of Assembly across the country not to allow external bodies to influence the removal of their Speakers and other principal officers.

This resolution was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of its meeting held on Friday in Abuja, presided over by its chairman, who also serves as the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

In the communiqué, made available to Ekwutosblog on Saturday, the conference condemned what it described as external interference in the crises affecting the Rivers and Lagos State Houses of Assembly.

The conference further urged members of State Houses of Assembly to uphold legislative independence and resist undue external influence.

It called on lawmakers to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and enabling laws when considering the removal of presiding officers, rather than allowing external forces to dictate such decisions.

Commenting on the ongoing crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly, the conference acknowledged the court judgments affirming the legitimacy of the Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House and called for recognition and engagement with the duly constituted Assembly to foster stability and progress.

Regarding the crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, the conference reiterated its condemnation of external interference in the Assembly’s affairs, stressing that such actions undermine legislative independence.

Furthermore, the conference reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democracy and upholding legislative autonomy.

“The Conference notes the court judgments affirming the legitimacy of the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly. We call on the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Dr Siminalayi Fubara, and other stakeholders to recognise and engage with the duly constituted Assembly to promote stability and progress. Respect for judicial decisions and institutional harmony is essential for effective governance.

“The Conference acknowledges the constitutional provisions for the removal of presiding officers but insists that such processes must strictly comply with the Constitution and enabling laws.

“We condemn external interference in the affairs of the Lagos State House of Assembly, as it undermines legislative independence. All stakeholders are urged to respect the Assembly’s autonomy and ensure internal matters are resolved without external coercion,” the communique stated.

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Politics

David Mark Holds Secret Meeting With PRP Leaders as ADC Crisis Deepens

Published

3 days ago

April 12, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, David Mark, on Friday held a closed-door meeting with leaders of the Peoples Redemption Party in Abuja. The private consultation is seen as a fresh round of political moves as the ADC continues to battle a lingering leadership crisis and growing internal divisions.

Top figures from both parties were said to be present at the meeting, including PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba-Ahmed and senior ADC officials. The development is already drawing attention as opposition parties continue realignments ahead of the 2027 political season, with many watching closely for possible alliances and next steps in the party crisis.

Politics

“ADC is a Holy Party, Cannot be used to Scam Nigerians Again” – Hon Success Opara tells David Mark

Published

4 days ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

ADC Party in Turmoil: Hon Success Opara Slams Leadership, Warns Against Scamming Nigerians

Abuja, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing internal strife as Hon Success Opara, a prominent party official, has warned against attempts to use the party to deceive Nigerians. Opara specifically criticized the leadership of David Mark, stating that the party cannot be used to scam citizens again.

“ADC holy Party cannot be used to scam Nigerians again,” Opara said, emphasizing that those forming coalitions are hindering the party’s growth and denying youths opportunities to thrive.

“Those who are forming coalition don’t want to give the youths the chance to strive in the party,” she added.

Opara’s statement highlights the deepening divisions within the ADC, with concerns over leadership and the party’s direction.

Politics

2027: Bala declares aspirants over 55 years disqualified in ADC

Published

4 days ago

April 11, 2026

Ekwutos Blog

The factional National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nafiu Bala Gombe, has announced that the party under his leadership will bar individuals above the age of 55 from contesting for political positions.

Gombe made the disclosure during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he outlined a vision centred on generational change and greater youth participation in politics.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is a party that belongs to all Nigerians. What we are doing now is to ensure the party moves forward properly.

“We have decided that we will give the youths a real chance. The time has come for young people to take the lead in politics.

“If you are over 55 years old, you are not going to contest for positions in the ADC under our leadership.

“We want to bring in fresh blood, new ideas, and energy from the youth. Nigeria’s future depends on the young generation.

“The old ways have not worked well for the country. We need to open the door wide for youths to participate fully as candidates, leaders, and decision-makers,” he said.