Nigeria Digest: July 19, 2025

Former Minister Babatunde Fashola believes it is unrealistic to expect Nigeria's local governments to function independently under the current constitution. He commented on the Supreme Court's ruling on local government autonomy, stating that while legal experts have differing opinions, the constitution does not currently provide a framework for full local government independence.

Former Senator Shehu Sani advised Peter Obi against leaving the Labour Party, urging him to focus on the party's efforts moving forward. Sani believes Obi's efforts would be more successful within the Labour Party context.

The Labour Party in Lagos State has vowed to challenge the recent local council election results, citing inconsistencies and irregularities in the process.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos are recognized as full-fledged local governments within the Nigerian Constitution.

Anambra residents, particularly traders in Onitsha, have praised Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo for restoring peace and order to the commercial city.

A faction of the Labour Party led by Julius Abure has declared the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting convened by Governor Alex Otti of Abia State as null and void.

South East Renewed Hope Agenda (SERHA), a political support group, officially launched its Anambra chapter to gather support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.