- PDP crisis: Stakeholders demand Wike, Bauchi gov truce as governors meet today
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing internal crises as key stakeholders intervene in a rift between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed. Accusations fly over tax reform opposition and political betrayals. PDP’s acting chairman and Board of Trustees call for unity, but divisions persist. Some blame the ruling APC for fueling the conflict, while others argue internal discipline is lacking. A reconciliation committee is working to restore stability ahead of the 2027 elections, amid calls for leadership changes to strengthen the opposition party. Read more
Athena Commentary: The PDP’s internal crisis highlights weak party discipline and lack of strategic unity, issues that stronger democracies handle better. In countries like the UK and US, while political disagreements exist, parties prioritize long-term stability over personal feuds. Internal disputes are often resolved through structured mediation, ensuring party cohesion before elections. In Germany, for example, party leadership enforces clear rules to prevent damaging public conflicts. Nigeria’s opposition must learn from these models—focusing on collective goals, enforcing discipline, and fostering internal democracy. Without unity, the PDP risks weakening its chances in 2027, just as divided parties elsewhere often lose elections.
- Kaduna gov releases N548m teachers funds
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has released N548 million to the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Endwell Fund, ending a long-standing dispute. The fund, which comes from teachers’ salary deductions, is meant for their welfare and retirement. The resolution followed negotiations between the state government and the NUT, leading to the withdrawal of related lawsuits. Governor Sani’s intervention was praised as a commitment to education and teachers’ welfare. Read more
Athena Commentary: In well-governed countries, teachers’ welfare is a priority, with regular pensions, health benefits, and structured retirement plans. Governments ensure that teachers do not have to fight for their entitlements. In contrast, Kaduna teachers had to endure years of disputes before receiving funds meant for their welfare. While Governor Uba Sani’s intervention is commendable, it highlights deeper issues of poor financial management and lack of accountability. In better systems, such funds would be managed transparently, with no need for prolonged conflicts. Nigeria must adopt global best practices to ensure teachers get their dues without unnecessary struggles.
- 3.Nigeria needs stability, reforms — Abdulsalami, Anyim, IPAC, others
At a book launch in Abuja, political leaders, including Abdulsalami Abubakar and Anyim Pius Anyim, stressed the urgent need for political stability, strong party ideologies, and electoral reforms in Nigeria. They warned that without these changes, the country would face ongoing instability and weak governance. INEC called for internal democracy within parties, while IPAC highlighted the importance of documenting Nigeria’s political history. A documentary on 25 years of democracy was also announced. Read more
Athena Commentary: Nigeria’s democracy struggles due to weak institutions, poor internal party democracy, and inconsistent electoral reforms. In better-governed countries, political parties follow clear ideologies, elections are transparent, and institutions are strong enough to check power. Leaders there prioritize national interest over personal or ethnic agendas, ensuring stability and development. In contrast, Nigeria faces frequent political crises, mutual suspicion, and governance failures. Without urgent reforms, including strong institutions, electoral integrity, and accountable leadership, progress will remain slow.
- Nigerians suffering, FG’s economic policies not working – Fintiri
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has criticized the Federal Government’s economic policies, stating they are causing hardship for Nigerians. Speaking at a PDP reconciliation meeting in Bauchi, he described the country as “bleeding” and urged the government to reconsider policies worsening citizens’ suffering. The meeting, attended by PDP leaders, aimed to unite the party ahead of the 2027 elections. PDP reconciliation committee chairman Olagunsoye Oyinlola emphasized the need to resolve internal conflicts and strengthen the party. Read more
Athena Commentary: In better-run economies, policies prioritize citizens’ well-being, balancing growth with social protection. Countries like Germany and Canada implement economic reforms with safety nets, ensuring inflation control, job creation, and affordable living. In contrast, Nigeria’s policies seem to deepen hardship, with rising costs, weak wages, and poor welfare programs. Effective governments engage experts, monitor impacts, and adjust strategies to prevent suffering. Nigeria must shift from harsh, externally driven policies to homegrown solutions that boost productivity, strengthen the naira, and support businesses. Leadership should focus on people-first governance, where economic policies lift citizens instead of pushing them into deeper struggles.
Compiled by Ebube Chukwukaeme