Nigeria News Digest: August 24, 2025

The ADC has filed a lawsuit against the Rivers State sole administrator and the State Independent Electoral Commission, claiming the appointment of board members for the commission on 9 May 2025 violated constitutional provisions and the 2018 electoral law; the suit seeks a declaration of nullity, the setting aside of the revised local government election timetable and related actions, and ₦10 million in damages.

The INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner reported that 367,000 permanent voter cards remain uncollected in Kano, praised the state‑appointed task force for supporting registration, and urged its members to intensify mobilisation and create additional polling units to ensure citizens receive their cards.

Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission chairperson Saratu Dikko‑Audu presented certificates of return to the newly elected chairmen of Kachia, Soba and Zangon Kataf local governments, urging them to honour voters’ confidence and deliver tangible projects for their communities.

The House of Representatives minority caucus called on the president to immediately release statutory allocations withheld since February 2025 for Osun State local governments, warning that it may pursue legislative action if the federal government continues to withhold the funds.

Oyo APC governorship aspirant Oloye Saheed Oladeel convened all 33 local‑government chairmen in Bodija, Ibadan, urging them to prioritise party unity over personal ambitions as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.

An APC group in Bauchi endorsed Shehu Buba as its 2027 governorship candidate, with local government chairman Sunusi Biyali noting Buba’s defence of the party’s integrity in 2024 and calling for broader support beyond mere endorsement.

Analysts say recent by‑elections preview the 2027 contest, highlighting the APC’s superior mobilisation, incumbency advantage and logistical capacity, while a fragmented opposition and low voter confidence set the stage for a high‑stakes general election.