Politics
JUST IN: Court Sacks House of Reps Member for defecting from PDP to APC
DDM News
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has removed Hon. Abubakar Suleiman Gummi, member representing Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara State, for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the judgment, delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, declared the lawmaker’s defection unconstitutional and a direct violation of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which prohibits elected officials from switching political parties without valid justification.
The ruling followed a suit filed by the PDP and its Zamfara State Chairman, Jamilu Jibomagayaki, who petitioned the court to declare Gummi’s seat vacant after he dumped the party under which he was elected.
Represented by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Ibrahim Bawa, the plaintiffs argued that there was no internal division or crisis within the PDP at the time of Gummi’s defection that could justify such an action.
In his defense, Gummi claimed that internal crises within the PDP, both at national and state levels, forced him to defect to the APC to continue serving his constituency effectively.
However, Justice Egwuatu dismissed the claim, holding that the evidence presented did not prove any division capable of warranting defection under the constitutional provision.
The court subsequently ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a by-election within 30 days to fill the vacant Gummi/Bukkuyum seat in the House of Representatives.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, was also directed to immediately stop recognizing Gummi as a serving member of the chamber.
In a landmark directive, Justice Egwuatu ordered Gummi to refund all salaries, allowances, and other emoluments received from October 30, 2024, until the date of judgment.
The court further mandated that evidence of the refund be filed with the court registry within 30 days.
Beyond financial penalties, the judge used the opportunity to issue a stern warning to Nigerian politicians, condemning what he described as “the growing culture of political prostitution.” He emphasized that elected officials must not transfer the mandate of voters from one political party to another without relinquishing their seat.
“Politicians should respect the wishes of the electorate that elected them into office,” Justice Egwuatu declared. “When voters choose between political parties based on their manifestos, it is legally and morally wrong for an elected person to abandon the party under which he was elected and move to another without relinquishing that mandate.”
He continued, “If a person must decamp, don’t decamp with the mandate of the electorate. A politician has no such right to transfer votes garnered on the platform of one party to another.
The law must punish such moves by taking away the benefits bestowed upon the decampee politician. Political prostitution must not be rewarded.”
The court also awarded ₦500,000 in costs to the PDP and directed it to be paid by the defendant.
Political observers have hailed the ruling as a major step toward restoring accountability and discipline within Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
Many analysts believe the decision could set a precedent that deters future defections, especially by lawmakers who abandon the parties that sponsored their electoral victories.
Legal experts, however, predict that Gummi may challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal, given the financial implications and political consequences of losing his legislative seat.
This judgment adds to a growing list of recent court verdicts targeting the rising trend of defection among Nigerian politicians, a pattern many citizens believe has eroded the integrity of the nation’s democratic process.
The case, observers say, sends a strong signal that loyalty to party platforms, voter mandate, and the rule of law must remain at the heart of Nigeria’s political system.
DELTA – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set to unveil its new Coalition Vehicle in Delta State this weekend.
Delta State, located in the southern region of Nigeria, is a fascinating and culturally rich area known for its diverse ethnic composition, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant economic activities.
It is bordered by Edo State to the north, Anambra State to the east, and the Bight of Benin to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
This state is renowned for its oil and gas reserves, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s overall revenue.
The capital city, Asaba, serves as the political and administrative hub, while Warri stands out as the commercial nerve center of the state.
Delta State is home to various ethnic groups, including the Urhobo, Isoko, Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Anioma people, each bringing their unique cultural heritage, traditions, and festivals to the vibrant tapestry of the region.
Visitors to Delta State can experience a blend of urban and rural life, enjoy traditional music, art, and delicious cuisine, while also engaging in exciting outdoor activities like exploring the inner riverine areas filled with stunning wildlife and lush greenery.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that the event is expected to draw political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across Nigeria.
The launch aims to unite reform-minded leaders, youth movements, and grassroots organizations under one platform for inclusive governance and participatory democracy.
Organizers confirmed that several top national figures, including former governors, party chieftains, and youth leaders, will be present at the official unveiling.
The event is being described as a pivotal moment for ADC, signaling the party’s intention to consolidate support ahead of future elections.
The coalition is designed to serve as a people-driven force, providing a political vehicle for collaboration among reformist groups and leaders nationwide.
ADC’s call to action, themed “A–D–C Arise”, has gained traction on social media, trending across multiple platforms in anticipation of the weekend event.
Supporters are encouraged to participate both physically in Delta State and digitally, using hashtags #CoalitionVehicle and #ADCArise to show solidarity.
Political analysts say the unveiling could strengthen the party’s visibility and attract alliances with smaller parties and civil society organizations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ADC leadership has emphasized that the coalition is not limited to party loyalists but is open to all reform-oriented Nigerians committed to democratic principles.
The party has also highlighted that the event will feature interactive sessions, discussions on governance reforms, and strategies to mobilize youth engagement in politics.
Observers expect that the Delta launch will serve as a blueprint for similar coalition-building exercises in other states, amplifying ADC’s national footprint.
The ADC leadership reiterated that the Coalition Vehicle is a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and actionable political engagement, aiming to address pressing issues affecting Nigerians at the grassroots level.
(DDM) – The Obidient Movement has announced that its official Situation Room for the Anambra 2025 Gubernatorial Election is live today, Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 8 a.m.
The Obedient Movement, often seen as a significant social and cultural wave, represents a burgeoning collective of individuals unified by a shared vision of civic responsibility and active participation in societal development.
This movement, characterized by its emphasis on adherence to ethical principles and accountability, encourages its members to engage in community activities and political processes with the goal of fostering positive change.
Through their unwavering commitment to these ideals, participants aim to build a more harmonious and equitable society that values integrity, transparency, and collaborative progress.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that the broadcast is streaming across all major social media platforms, with the movement providing real-time updates, field reports, and verified election analyses from its statewide monitoring network.
According to a statement signed by Dr. Yunusa Tanko, spokesperson of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, the Situation Room was set up to promote transparency, accountability, and credible reporting throughout today’s election process.
The Obidient Situation Room will feature live updates from polling units, on-ground observer reports, and analyses of voter turnout, vote counting, and conduct of officials.
It also aims to counter fake news, promote peaceful participation, and encourage citizens to protect their votes.
Dr. Tanko urged all supporters and members of the Obidient family to join the live broadcast and share updates widely across social media.
He emphasized that the Obidient Movement remains committed to safeguarding democracy through citizen participation, vigilance, and integrity.
“The election is in the hands of Anambarians,” Dr. Tanko said. “It is your choice who governs you. A New Nigeria is Possible.”
The Obidient Movement, which rose to prominence during the 2023 general elections, has maintained its influence through civic engagement, digital mobilization, and grassroots organization across Nigeria.
Analysts believe today’s live Situation Room represents a bold step in leveraging technology to promote electoral transparency and citizen oversight during the governorship election.
Thousands of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora are expected to tune in as the Obidient Movement delivers verified, on-the-ground updates from polling centers across Anambra State.
DDM will provide continuous live reports and verified developments from the Obidient Situation Room as today’s election unfolds across Anambra.
At this point, it is believed that most voters in Anambra State have made up their minds as the election is set to take place across the 326 wards in the state.
As has been consistently emphasized, our choice at the polls will shape the future of Anambra State over the next four years.
A mistake in our voting could regress our state even further than the challenges we currently face under the administration of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
Anambra State African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, John Chuma Nwosu, and Deputy governorship candidate, Geoffrey Ndubisi Nwobu
Above all, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has not only shown a strong commitment to the holistic development of our state but has also laid out a clear blueprint for their administration, titled “SHEEMS.”
Ndi Anambra, Mr. John Chuma Nwosu and Dr. Geoffrey Ndubisi Nwobu are not strangers to us when it comes to administration and public service.
Both have significantly elevated the roles they have previously held and have positively impacted the lives of many (the evidence is clear).
Let’s give ADC a chance tomorrow!
As for me and my family, we will be voting for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).John Nwosu
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