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Drop the Drama Pick Up the Debate Rethinking Youth in Politics

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By Umar Aliyu

In the heat of political seasons, it’s easy to get swept up in the drama—the noise, the social media banter, and, unfortunately, the campaigns of calumny. A troubling trend is emerging in our political landscape: young people, who should be the torchbearers of issue-based engagement, are becoming merchants of slander, peddlers of insults, and warriors of misinformation.

It’s time to referen—yes, retreat—from this toxic path and redirect our compass toward mature, constructive political discourse.

Politics Shouldn’t Be a Mud-Wrestling Match

Politics was never meant to be a battleground for name-calling and tribal slurs. It is not a stage for labeling someone a thief, a cultist, or a failure without verifiable evidence. The essence of democracy lies in presenting competing ideas, assessing policies, and choosing the best among many.

If you truly believe in your candidate, don’t peddle hate—sell hope. Don’t drag opponents—uplift your own. Promote their track record, character, vision, and plans—not who they allegedly dated in school or what they wore at a wedding.

Youths: The Real Power, The Real Change

With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under 30, the youth possess immense potential. But power without purpose is chaos. Rather than serving as political pawns or foot soldiers of smear campaigns, Nigerian youths should lead the movement for a new political culture—one rooted in ideas, policy debates, and critical thought.

When we reduce ourselves to verbal hitmen for politicians, we only reinforce the broken system we claim to oppose.

From Emotion to Evidence-Based Politics

Here’s a radical but necessary idea: every political aspirant should sign a public, documented pledge outlining what they intend to achieve in their first, second, third, and fourth year in office. These pledges should be published, debated, and tracked by the public.

That way, we shift our focus from emotional theatrics to measurable governance. Imagine an election where candidates are judged by data and delivery, not propaganda.

A Call to Rethink, Refocus, and Reform

It’s not too late to change the narrative. We can transform from praise singers and slanderers into policy influencers and governance watchdogs. Let’s be bold enough to interrogate manifestos, challenge inconsistencies, and celebrate substance over slogans.

As another election cycle approaches, I challenge every Nigerian youth: don’t follow the mob—lead the movement. A movement rooted in issues, driven by dignity, and committed to long-term change. Remember, the names you smear today may be the bridges you need tomorrow.

Let’s build, not burn.
Let’s referen from campaigns of calumny.
Let’s return to the politics of purpose.

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Politics

ADC Aspirant Hosts Special Ramadan Iftar for Islamic Scholars in Funakaye

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By Our Political Reporter

In the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing Funakaye Local Government Area, Kwami Local Government Area, and Gombe Local Government Area Federal Constituency, Engineer Ibrahim Musa Bajoga, has hosted a special Iftar for Islamic scholars.

The event, held on the 22nd day of Ramadan, brought together prominent Islamic clerics and scholars from various communities across Funakaye Local Government Area in Gombe State.

According to the organizers, the Iftar gathering was aimed at seeking blessings, spiritual guidance, and prayers from respected scholars during the sacred month, which Muslims consider a period of reflection, charity, and devotion.

Speaking during the gathering, Engineer Ibrahim Musa Bajoga said the initiative was organized to strengthen unity, promote religious values, and seek prayers for peace and progress in the constituency and the state at large.

He noted that the month of Ramadan provides an opportunity for leaders and community members to come together in humility and devotion, stressing the importance of spiritual support from scholars.

The Islamic clerics who attended the Iftar offered special prayers for peace, unity, and development in the constituency, Gombe State, and Nigeria as a whole.

Engineer Bajoga expressed appreciation to all the scholars and guests who honored the invitation, thanking them for their prayers and continued support.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting religious and community initiatives that promote harmony and collective progress, especially during significant religious occasions like Ramadan.

Observers say such gatherings have become a common feature of community engagement during Ramadan, where political and community leaders interact with religious scholars while seeking spiritual guidance.

The event ended with prayers for the prosperity of the people and peaceful coexistence across communities in the state.

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Amaechi Joins ADC, Flags Off Digital Membership Drive in Rivers

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By Our Political Reporter

Former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has officially registered as a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), marking a significant political development that could reshape the party’s strength ahead of future elections in Nigeria.

Amaechi completed his membership registration on March 6, 2026, at his hometown Ubima in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, formally aligning himself with the party at the grassroots level.

The event was attended by party supporters, political associates, and community members who gathered to witness what many described as a defining moment for the ADC in the state.

During the ceremony, Amaechi also flagged off the party’s electronic membership registration (E-registration) platform, a move aimed at expanding the party’s membership base and making the registration process easier and more transparent for Nigerians across the country.

Speaking shortly after completing the registration, Amaechi emphasized the need for strong institutions, credible political participation, and renewed commitment to democratic values, noting that digital membership registration would help bring more Nigerians—especially young people—into the political process.

He said the ADC’s adoption of technology in its membership drive represents a new direction for political organization and grassroots mobilization in Nigeria.

As part of activities marking the occasion, Amaechi also commissioned the newly renovated ADC State Secretariat in Rivers State on March 7, 2026, describing the upgraded facility as a symbol of the party’s growing presence and readiness to play a stronger role in national politics.

Party leaders who spoke at the event expressed optimism that Amaechi’s entry into the ADC would strengthen the party’s structure in Rivers State and beyond, given his long-standing experience in governance and national politics.

Amaechi previously served as Governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015 and later as Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2023, making him one of the most influential political figures from the Niger Delta region.

Political observers say his move into the ADC could boost the party’s visibility and organizational capacity, particularly in the South-South region, where major political parties have traditionally dominated.

With the launch of the E-registration system and the commissioning of the party secretariat, ADC leaders say the party is positioning itself for broader national engagement and stronger grassroots participation as Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve.

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Politics

Appeal Court Set to Rule on Nine PDP Appeals On Monday

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By Our Political Reporter

The Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal is set to deliver judgment On, Monday, March 9, 2026, on nine appeals concerning the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a case widely seen as crucial to the party’s internal stability ahead of future political activities.

The judgment will be delivered at the headquarters of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria in Abuja, where party members, stakeholders and supporters are expected to gather to witness the proceedings.

In a statement signed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, supporters were encouraged to attend the court session to demonstrate solidarity with what he described as the “authentic executives” of the party elected during the PDP Ibadan National Convention.

According to the statement, the court’s decision on the nine appeals is expected to provide clarity on the leadership dispute that has generated significant debate within the party.

“The presence and support of party members and stakeholders will be highly valued and appreciated,” the statement noted, calling on PDP faithful to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the court proceedings.

Political observers say the ruling could have far-reaching implications for the future of the PDP, as it may determine the legitimacy of party executives and shape the direction of the opposition party in the coming months.

Security is expected to be tightened around the court premises in Abuja as supporters from different factions of the party are likely to converge to hear the verdict.

The PDP, one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties, has in recent months faced internal disputes over its leadership structure, with several appeals filed before the appellate court seeking legal interpretation and resolution.

All eyes will now be on the Court of Appeal as it delivers its judgment on the appeals that could significantly influence the party’s internal cohesion and political trajectory.

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