Nigeria News Digest: September 3, 2025

Anambra State's electoral commission has scheduled local government council elections for August 29, 2026, following legal provisions in the Electoral Act and State Electoral Law. The chairperson, Genevieve Osakwe, announced that election materials will be available by late November 2025.

An APC leader in Rivers State urged Governor Nyesom Wike to join the ruling party, citing recent electoral wins and a reinvigorated party structure. The APC opted not to field candidates in three local governments due to low recognition there.

The Nigerian government denied politicizing anti-corruption agencies, asserting a consistent policy of non-interference. Information Minister Mohammed Idris emphasized President Tinubu’s focus on systemic transparency and urged states to support national economic reforms.

Minister Mohammed Idris reiterated that anti-corruption institutions operate independently under President Tinubu's administration. He called on states to prioritize national development goals over political divisions in combating fraud and graft.

Federal officials highlighted Tinubu's administration's commitment to integrity, framing it as central to governance. Minister Idris praised ICPC's efforts to engage stakeholders and strengthen transparency at all government levels through targeted communication strategies.

The National Orientation Agency declared Nigeria faces a critical juncture due to declining civic values. Its director outlined a national campaign on policy awareness, disaster readiness, and security as part of a broader effort to rebuild public trust and national identity.

The Edo State PDP decried plans for local council by-elections as illegal, citing an ongoing court case against the state electoral commission. Party officials accused the government of staging a "kangaroo court" without proper judicial oversight.

A federal legislator predicted Bola Tinubu's 2027 presidential victory, despite political speculation about potential party shifts. Abdulmumin Jibrin reiterated his preference for Tinubu over rival candidates but emphasized regional power-sharing discussions.

A civil coalition demanded Finance Minister Wale Edun’s resignation over alleged failure to pay contractors for 2024 budget-executed projects. It threatened legal action if the officials refused to step down, calling it a breach of public trust.