By Dr. Malachy Chuma Ochie

In the evolving political economy of Enugu State, Governor Peter Mbah is pursuing a model of governance that treats infrastructure, security, and investment not as parallel priorities but as mutually reinforcing levers of long-term growth.

At the center of this approach is an aggressive push on link roads. Beyond easing traffic, these corridors are economic arteries; connecting agricultural belts to urban markets, reducing logistics costs, and unlocking peri-urban land for industrial and residential development.

In political economy terms, this is what we call spatial integration, which emphasizes shrinking distances between production and consumption, and thereby raising productivity. Roads here are not just public goods; they are signals, credible commitments that the state is open for business.

Security reform forms the second pillar. By investing in surveillance architecture, coordinated response systems, and intelligence-led policing, the administration is attempting to reduce uncertainty, the silent inhibitor that deters investors. Capital is risk-averse; it flows where predictability is high.

A safer Enugu State lowers transaction costs, encourages longer planning horizons, and makes local enterprises more scalable. Security, in this sense, is not merely a social good but an economic input.

The third leg, which is investment climate, ties the strategy together. Streamlined approvals, digitization of government services, and a pro-enterprise posture aim to reduce bureaucratic friction.

When combined with better roads and improved security, these reforms create what economists call “complementarities”: each policy amplifies the impact of the others.

A factory is more likely to be built where goods can move efficiently and where operations are secure; investors are more willing to commit where governance is predictable and responsive.

Critically, this model reflects intentional governance, where policy choices are sequenced and aligned toward a defined growth vision. The risk, however, lies in execution discipline and inclusivity.

Infrastructure without maintenance, security without accountability, and investment without broad-based participation can erode early gains.

Yet, if sustained, Enugu’s trajectory offers a compelling subnational blueprint: build connective infrastructure, secure the environment, and clear the path for private capital. Done right, these are not isolated interventions but a flywheel that is capable of transforming a city into a durable engine of regional prosperity. That is Gov Peter Mbah’s intentional governance at its best.

A former governor of Jigawa State and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Sule Lamido, has called for urgent reconciliation within the party, warning that its chances in the 2027 general elections may be bleak without mending fences with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Lamido, who was once a strong critic of Wike, admitted that political realities have forced a rethink.

According to him, the PDP’s internal crisis, compounded by high-profile defections to the All Progressives Congress, has left the opposition party weakened and struggling to remain competitive.

He stressed that reconciliation is no longer optional but a survival strategy, noting that the party must move beyond personal grievances to rebuild its structure and prepare effectively for upcoming elections.

“The PDP today is in a fragile state,” Lamido said, pointing out the absence of a fully functional national leadership and the legal uncertainties surrounding its structure. He warned that without urgent action, the party may find it difficult to organise primaries or field credible candidates.

While clarifying that his position does not amount to endorsing Wike’s past actions, Lamido argued that engaging all factions, including Wike’s camp, is the only realistic path forward.

He noted that many of those who once opposed Wike have already defected, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.

Lamido proposed the expansion of the current caretaker committee to accommodate all interests within the party, insisting that inclusiveness is key to restoring unity.

He added that such a move would pave the way for a credible national convention capable of producing a legitimate leadership.

On the broader political landscape, Lamido maintained that despite its challenges, the PDP remains the only opposition party with a national spread capable of challenging the ruling party.

However, he cautioned that time is running out, especially with the electoral timetable drawing closer.

He also dismissed speculations about adopting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a consensus candidate, describing such suggestions as irrelevant distractions from the party’s internal issues.

Regarding calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to return as a unifying figure, Lamido expressed doubt, saying the current state of disunity within the party makes such a move unlikely.

He reaffirmed that the PDP presidential ticket has already been zoned to the South but emphasized that no serious contender would emerge unless the party first rebuilds trust, unity, and organisational strength.

Despite mounting concerns and defections, Lamido rejected claims that the PDP is finished, insisting that the party remains a major force in Nigerian politics.

“The PDP is not dead,” he said. “But if we fail to reconcile now, we risk making that prediction a reality.”

Two sons of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have declared their intentions to contest for National Assembly positions in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling a growing political footprint for the family within the African Democratic Congress.

Adamu Atiku, the eldest son and former Commissioner for Works and Energy Development under Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, is eyeing the Adamawa South senatorial seat.

Meanwhile, his younger brother, Mohammed Atiku Abubakar, a businessman, is positioning to contest for the House of Representatives seat representing Jada/Mayo-Belwa/Ganye/Toungo federal constituency.

Confirming the development, ADC State Chairman, Shehu Yohanna, said the party has warmly received both aspirants and assured them of full support, in line with the party’s commitment to fairness and inclusiveness.

Yohanna disclosed that Adamu Atiku recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party and has since formally registered with the ADC in his ward in Jada Local Government Area, where he will pursue his senatorial ambition.

He added that Mohammed Atiku Abubakar had earlier joined the party and is equally set to contest in the 2027 elections.

The ADC leadership emphasized that both aspirants, like all Nigerians, have the constitutional right to seek elective office, assuring that the party will provide the necessary platform and support for their political aspirations.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has admitted that he is uncertain about clinching the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in a video circulating on social media, Obi told his supporters that while he remains committed to the political movement, he cannot guarantee securing the party’s ticket.

“I cannot be certain that I will get the ticket,” he said, stressing that his focus goes beyond personal ambition. According to him, the struggle is about a broader national cause rather than individual political gain.

The former Anambra State governor also reflected on the current political climate, questioning how things have evolved and warning against abandoning ongoing reform efforts.

Despite reported threats and uncertainties within the opposition space, Obi reaffirmed his resolve to continue pushing for change. He commended his supporters for their loyalty, acknowledging the difficulties of operating outside the ruling establishment.

Obi, however, raised concerns about trust and stability within political alliances, noting that shifting loyalties remain a major challenge.

“We cannot always be sure that those we are working with today will remain committed tomorrow,” he said, highlighting the fragile nature of coalition politics in Nigeria.

The African Democratic Congress has criticised the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what it described as worsening insecurity and rising terrorist attacks across the country.

In a statement, the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, cited recent security data to question the government’s handling of terrorism, noting that the situation has deteriorated despite ongoing efforts.

Referencing findings from the Global Terrorism Index, the ADC said terrorist incidents in Nigeria increased significantly, rising from 120 cases in 2024 to 171 in 2025 — a 43 per cent surge.

According to the report, Borno State remains the epicentre of the violence, accounting for the majority of attacks and fatalities, with civilians bearing the brunt of the crisis.

The party also faulted what it described as a lack of visible leadership response to recent killings, arguing that stronger empathy and direct engagement from the presidency would help boost public confidence.

Amid the criticism, the ADC outlined a three-point strategy aimed at overhauling Nigeria’s security architecture.

First, it called for improved coordination among intelligence agencies through the establishment of a legally backed national intelligence system, including a Coordinator of National Intelligence and a unified Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Second, the party advocated decentralised policing, proposing a multi-tier structure involving federal, state, and community policing to enhance rapid response and accountability.

Third, it emphasised the need to shift from reactive to preventive security, recommending an intelligence-driven approach supported by data, early warning systems, and rapid-response units across the country.

The ADC maintained that its proposals are designed to restore public trust, strengthen national security, and provide a more proactive framework for tackling terrorism in Nigeria.

Governor Alex Otti has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a courageous decision to remove fuel subsidy, noting that the policy would ultimately benefit the nation despite its immediate challenges.

Otti made the remarks on Thursday while receiving Victor Ikeji, the Federal Commissioner representing Abia at the Federal Character Commission, during a courtesy visit to his office in Nvosi.

The governor stated that he has long maintained that the fuel subsidy regime was unsustainable, describing it as a “scam” in previous public commentaries.

He noted that although the removal has brought temporary hardship, it was a necessary correction of a flawed system.

“It may be painful, but when you correct a long-standing wrong, there will be discomfort. In the long run, the economy will adjust and the benefits will become evident,” he said.

Otti also appreciated the President for appointing Ikeji to the Federal Character Commission, describing the move as a well-deserved recognition of Abia State.

He expressed confidence in Ikeji’s ability to promote fairness, equity, and justice in line with the Commission’s mandate.

He assured that the state government would collaborate with the Commission to enhance its effectiveness and deliver on its responsibilities.

Earlier, Ikeji thanked the governor for his support and pledged to represent Abia State diligently, while also committing to strengthening accountability and improving staff welfare within the Commission.

The visit further underscored ongoing efforts to foster cooperation between state and federal institutions in promoting inclusive governance and national development.

The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has expressed confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress will retain power in the 2027 general elections, despite growing opposition realignments.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ndume said key opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi have not presented any new or compelling ideas capable of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, while the opposition African Democratic Congress boasts strong personalities, it has yet to demonstrate cohesion or a clear alternative vision.

“I am not worried because nobody is coming up with anything new,” Ndume said, noting that the same political actors continue to dominate the conversation without offering fresh solutions.

Despite his reservations, the lawmaker cautioned against underestimating the opposition, recalling how the now-ruling APC was once dismissed before eventually defeating the Peoples Democratic Party.

He emphasised that a vibrant opposition remains essential for democratic growth, even as he maintained that the ADC does not currently pose a serious threat to the APC’s dominance.

Ndume, however, acknowledged public dissatisfaction with aspects of the current administration, particularly in the areas of insecurity and citizens’ welfare.

He argued that if the government intensifies efforts to address these challenges and improve living conditions, Nigerians may still support Tinubu’s re-election.

He added that Nigerians are generally forgiving and could overlook past grievances if tangible improvements are made.

With internal crises weakening the Peoples Democratic Party, the ADC has emerged as a rallying platform for opposition figures, including former ministers and governors, seeking to challenge the APC in the next election cycle.

The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has expressed confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress will retain power in the 2027 general elections, despite growing opposition realignments.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ndume said key opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi have not presented any new or compelling ideas capable of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, while the opposition African Democratic Congress boasts strong personalities, it has yet to demonstrate cohesion or a clear alternative vision.

“I am not worried because nobody is coming up with anything new,” Ndume said, noting that the same political actors continue to dominate the conversation without offering fresh solutions.

Despite his reservations, the lawmaker cautioned against underestimating the opposition, recalling how the now-ruling APC was once dismissed before eventually defeating the Peoples Democratic Party.

He emphasised that a vibrant opposition remains essential for democratic growth, even as he maintained that the ADC does not currently pose a serious threat to the APC’s dominance.

Ndume, however, acknowledged public dissatisfaction with aspects of the current administration, particularly in the areas of insecurity and citizens’ welfare.

He argued that if the government intensifies efforts to address these challenges and improve living conditions, Nigerians may still support Tinubu’s re-election.

He added that Nigerians are generally forgiving and could overlook past grievances if tangible improvements are made.

With internal crises weakening the Peoples Democratic Party, the ADC has emerged as a rallying platform for opposition figures, including former ministers and governors, seeking to challenge the APC in the next election cycle.