Jesse David (Hon)

A Distressing January for Nigeria This first month serves as a critical measure of the challenges that lie ahead, and it is painfully evident that the situation in the country continues to worsen. Insecurity has surged alarmingly across the nation. In just January, we saw reports of several killings, hundreds of kidnappings and abductions that include children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers with the abductors demanding millions. Farmers remain unable to return to their farms plagued by ongoing insecurity which exacerbates food shortages and rural poverty. Education stands as a cornerstone of national development, yet countless children remain out of school and those in school cannot attend because of insecurity or teachers' strikes. This is particularly tragic in Abuja, the seat of government, where schools remain shuttered. This is the same Abuja where billions were squandered on renovating a conference centre for the president and Bus Terminals. One must question whether our leaders genuinely appreciate the vital role of education. Our nation with the worst access to electricity without an abysmal supply have witnessed two grid collapses in just January. While leaders in other nations prioritise domestic governance in January, Nigeria’s president prioritises international engagements over pressing national issues. This month, he spent 23 days abroad across two trips—beginning the year overseas and returning on the 17th, and departing less than 10 days on the 26th to Türkiye, where he remains as of January 31. What urgent matters continuously warrant his absence from the nation? When he does return, it often appears to be merely to welcome defectors into the APC before he jets off again. The collective impact of these events paints a grim portrait of a nation grappling simultaneously with insecurity, economic distress, failing infrastructure, and profound social upheaval. Instead of confronting these urgent challenges head-on in pursuit of solutions, much of the political class remains engrossed in power calculations and the next election cycle. The ruling APC, in particular, seems more concerned with rallies and welcoming defectors than with visiting failing institutions or addressing the daily struggles of the Nigerian people. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Ya kpotuba ……..

PRESS STATEMENT ADC Announces Composition of 50-Member Wise Men and Women Policy and Manifesto Committee The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the constitution of its 50-member Wise Men and Women Policy and Manifesto Committee, following the approval of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party. The committee was approved by the National Chairman of the ADC, His Excellency, Senator David A. B. Mark, GCON, in line with the party’s commitment to building a credible, people-centred, and forward-looking policy framework for national governance. The Policy and Manifesto Committee brings together a distinguished group of Nigerians drawn from diverse backgrounds, including former public office holders, academics, technocrats, policy experts, civil society leaders, and professionals. Collectively, they represent a wealth of experience in governance, economic management, social development, security, and democratic reform. The committee will be chaired by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, with Professor Pat Utomi serving as Deputy Chairman, while Salihu Lukman will serve as Secretary. According to the party, the committee is tasked with articulating a clear, coherent, and credible policy direction that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians and positions the ADC as a serious alternative platform for responsible leadership and national renewal. The formal inauguration of the committee has been scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, at 12 noon, at the Conference Hall of the ADC National Secretariat, Abuja. The African Democratic Congress reaffirms its belief that Nigeria’s challenges require ideas rooted in competence, integrity, and national consensus, and expresses confidence that the committee will deliver a manifesto that speaks to the real needs of Nigerians. All concerned members and relevant stakeholders are invited to take note. Signed: 
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi
National Publicity Secretary
African Democratic Congress (ADC) COMPOSITION OF ADC 50 WISE MEN & WOMEN OF THE ADC POLICY/MANIFESTO COMMITTEE John Odigie Oyegun – Chairman Prof. Pat Utomi – Deputy Chairman Salihu Lukman – Secretary Sen. Gershon Bassey – Member Sen. J.J. Akpan Udo-Udeghe – Member Amb Abiye Mohammed – Member H.E. Simon Achuba – Member Prof. Ibrahim Garba – Member Bala Usman – Member Bulus Bello Zaki Piko – Member Ose Anenih – Member Dr Nicholas Msheliza – Member Dr David Olofu – Member Dr Okey Ezegwu – Member Dr Mohammed Jibrin Yusufari – Member Joel Adi Gani – Member Prof. Jude Njoku – Member Miss Yemi Adamolekun – Member Prof. Anthony Kila – Member Nkovo Toyo – Member Dr Usman Bugaje – Member Oseloka Obaze – Member Dr Otive Igbuzor – Member Engr. Bello Suleiman – Member Prof. Chidi Odinkalu – Member AVM Sadique Abubakar – Member Madam Jumoke Olawuyi – Member Prof. Murtala Sagagi – Member Dr Kerian Wobodo – Member Dr Fatima Zara Saleh – Member Prof. Kolapo Eleka – Member Barr Makber Oson Jacob – Member Prof. Remi Sonaiya – Member Moji Ajayi (Mrs) – Member Prof. Sam Amadi – Member Dr Babayo Ardo – Member Pastor Funke Awowolo – Member Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu – Member Hon. Aminu Muhammad Gumel – Member Ngozi Ndukwe – Member Prof. Doknan Disent Sheni – Member Prof. Saheed Malik – Member Dr Sunday Taiwako Anyabuga – Member Ms Helen Yashin – Member Dr John Markus Ayuba – Member Dr Chike Okogwu – Member Barr. (Mrs) Salametu A. Izuagie – Member Chief (Mrs) Uwaoma Olevengwa – Member Alhaja Hafsat Moji Bello – Member Hon. Sani Yakubu Noma – Member