Nigeria News Digest: August 2, 2025

The Rivers Civil Society Organizations (RIVCSO) has called for a boycott of the upcoming local government elections in the state. They argue that the current composition of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) is illegal and unconstitutional.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has launched a door-to-door campaign for the All Progressive Congress candidate, Joe Ikpea, who is running in the August 16th senatorial election in Edo Central Senatorial District.

The Niger State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for second terms in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former Ekiti Deputy Governor, Biodun Olujimi, has downplayed the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stating that it lacks the stature to defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.

Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has revoked the operating licence of Badegi Radio station, accusing it of consistently inciting the public against the state government.

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is mobilizing support for a new opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Sokoto State ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the closure of Badeggi FM radio station by the Niger State government, demanding immediate reversal of the order and emphasizing that media regulation must follow due process.

A faction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is confronting former Senate President David Mark and other figures associated with a coalition aiming to reshape the party.

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai argues that retaining the All Progressives Congress (APC) in power beyond 2027 would be disastrous for Nigeria, highlighting the need for change and urging Nigerians to mobilize against the ruling party.

The Benue APC has distanced itself from the endorsement of Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, for a third term, claiming he lacks the necessary political legacy and hasn't shown the ability to win a further term.

Ebonyi State Government is starting the process of paying gratuities to retirees from 1996 onwards, having set up a committee to verify their claims and issue payments.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago's decision to shut down Badeggi FM radio station, calling it a violation of press freedom that aligns with the worst forms of military dictatorship.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, has urged political parties to accept the results of the 2023 elections and refrain from actions that could lead to post-election violence, emphasizing the importance of Nigerian elections for the region and the world.

Financial expert Gbolade Idakolo suggests that additional government borrowing could be beneficial if it supports infrastructure development and economic growth, but stresses the need for rigorous oversight by the National Assembly to ensure loan viability and repayment capacity.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has directed APC support groups to consolidate under the party's leadership to maintain unity and avoid division ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Julius Abure-led Labour Party has criticized INEC for omitting its candidates from the August 16, 2025 by-election, demanding their immediate inclusion and urging calm among its members while the issue is resolved.