Jegede Kehinde, the Lagos State Secretary of the African Action Congress (AAC), took to his social media handle on Wednesday to criticize the political leaders who have held power in Lagos for over two decades, condemning them for poor leadership and their failure to meet the needs of the people.
He urged residents to stop supporting these politicians, whom he said have failed to provide basic services such as security, healthcare, and quality education.
“You should be angry enough to stop supporting your enemies,” Kehinde began in his passionate address. “You should be annoyed enough to stop singing praise of your slave master.”
He further admonished the support for leaders who, according to him, have failed to deliver on key responsibilities such as safety, education, and healthcare.
“You should be angry enough to stop supporting someone who couldn’t provide security, health care, sound education,” he stated. “Nothing should make you to support people that remove subsidies from every essential service you should have enjoy as a citizen.”
The AAC secretary also urged voters to break away from tribal sentiment when making political choices, advocating instead for issue-based support.
“Stop deceiving yourselves in the name of tribe. Go for persons that care about you,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Kehinde took a direct swipe at the current political establishment in Lagos, saying: “Stop supporting a wasteful 25 years officeholders in the State.”
The African Action Congress (AAC) unequivocally condemns the recent decision by the Kano State Government to ban all live political programmes across media platforms in the state and to impose draconian restrictions on journalists and media professionals.
This action, as announced by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, and formalized in a directive signed by the Director of Special Duties, Sani Abba Yola, constitutes a grave violation of democratic principles, press freedom, and the constitutional rights of citizens to freedom of expression and access to information.
The AAC views this move as an authoritarian attempt to stifle political dissent, muzzle the press, and shield the government from public accountability. The prohibition of what the government terms “provocative questions” is a deliberately vague and subjective standard designed to intimidate journalists and suppress critical inquiry. Such language provides the government with unchecked discretion to silence any form of interrogation that challenges its narrative or exposes its failures.
Furthermore, the requirement that media guests sign undertakings not to make “abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks” is not only redundant—given existing defamation and hate speech laws—but also opens the door to censorship, as these terms are undefined and could be manipulated to target opposition voices or dissenting views.
It is deeply troubling that the state seeks to control not only what is said, but how it is said, going as far as to prohibit gestures deemed suggestive. This level of surveillance over speech and expression reflects a creeping authoritarianism that has no place in a democratic society.
The AAC strongly asserts that democracy thrives on free and open discourse. It is through robust political debate, public scrutiny, and freedom of the press that governments are held accountable and citizens are empowered to make informed decisions.
While the AAC acknowledges and appreciates the laudable infrastructural and developmental projects being undertaken by the Kano State Government, we emphasize that such achievements must not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms. Development and democracy must go hand in hand. By banning live political programmes, the Kano State Government is effectively denying the people of the state their right to hear alternative political perspectives, critically assess governance, and participate meaningfully in public life.
This action represents a clear and dangerous erosion of civil liberties and democratic norms. It is reminiscent of repressive regimes that fear transparency and public engagement. The AAC calls on civil society organizations, professional bodies like the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), media houses, and all citizens of conscience to reject this undemocratic imposition and demand its immediate reversal.
We also call on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to resist being co-opted into enforcing these unconstitutional measures and to reaffirm its mandate to protect media freedom in Nigeria. The right to freedom of expression and press is enshrined in Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and must not be traded away for political convenience.
The AAC reiterates its commitment to fighting for justice, transparency, and true democracy in Nigeria. We will continue to resist all forms of political repression and stand with the people of Kano State and the Nigerian media in defending their right to speak freely and hold power to account.
Signed: Abba Sharif Abdullahi Chairman, Kano State Chapter African Action Congress (AAC)
The African Action Congress (AAC) unequivocally condemns the recent decision by the Kano State Government to ban all live political programmes across media platforms in the state and to impose draconian restrictions on journalists and media professionals.
This action, as announced by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waiya, and formalized in a directive signed by the Director of Special Duties, Sani Abba Yola, constitutes a grave violation of democratic principles, press freedom, and the constitutional rights of citizens to freedom of expression and access to information.
The AAC views this move as an authoritarian attempt to stifle political dissent, muzzle the press, and shield the government from public accountability. The prohibition of what the government terms “provocative questions” is a deliberately vague and subjective standard designed to intimidate journalists and suppress critical inquiry. Such language provides the government with unchecked discretion to silence any form of interrogation that challenges its narrative or exposes its failures.
Furthermore, the requirement that media guests sign undertakings not to make “abusive, defamatory, or culturally offensive remarks” is not only redundant—given existing defamation and hate speech laws—but also opens the door to censorship, as these terms are undefined and could be manipulated to target opposition voices or dissenting views.
It is deeply troubling that the state seeks to control not only what is said, but how it is said, going as far as to prohibit gestures deemed suggestive. This level of surveillance over speech and expression reflects a creeping authoritarianism that has no place in a democratic society.
The AAC strongly asserts that democracy thrives on free and open discourse. It is through robust political debate, public scrutiny, and freedom of the press that governments are held accountable and citizens are empowered to make informed decisions.
While the AAC acknowledges and appreciates the laudable infrastructural and developmental projects being undertaken by the Kano State Government, we emphasize that such achievements must not come at the expense of fundamental freedoms. Development and democracy must go hand in hand. By banning live political programmes, the Kano State Government is effectively denying the people of the state their right to hear alternative political perspectives, critically assess governance, and participate meaningfully in public life.
This action represents a clear and dangerous erosion of civil liberties and democratic norms. It is reminiscent of repressive regimes that fear transparency and public engagement. The AAC calls on civil society organizations, professional bodies like the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), media houses, and all citizens of conscience to reject this undemocratic imposition and demand its immediate reversal.
We also call on the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to resist being co-opted into enforcing these unconstitutional measures and to reaffirm its mandate to protect media freedom in Nigeria. The right to freedom of expression and press is enshrined in Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and must not be traded away for political convenience.
The AAC reiterates its commitment to fighting for justice, transparency, and true democracy in Nigeria. We will continue to resist all forms of political repression and stand with the people of Kano State and the Nigerian media in defending their right to speak freely and hold power to account.
Signed: Abba Sharif Abdullahi Chairman, Kano State Chapter African Action Congress (AAC)
Kayode Babayomi, the Oyo State Chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC), has made it clear that the party’s allegiance lies firmly with the Nigerian people rather than with established political elites.
In an exclusive interview with Rukiyat Ogunwade, Babayomi addressed questions regarding potential alliances or mergers with other political parties.
He unequivocally dismissed any possibility of partnering with what he described as “failed” political actors.
“I like to reiterate that the AAC is a people’s party founded on the ideals of justice, equity, and genuine transformation,” Babayomi stated. “And as such, any alliance or merger ahead of the 2027 elections will not be with politicians or political parties whose track records are steeped in perennial failure, betrayal, and recycled deception.”
He emphasized that the party’s real strength lies in its bond with everyday Nigerians, particularly those often left out of the political process. “Rather, our alliance is with the Nigerian masses who are the market women and hustling men, the unemployed youth in their millions, the forgotten farmers, and every citizen yearning for a new Nigeria,” he said.
Babayomi concluded on a hopeful note, expressing confidence in the people’s power to bring about change: “It is with the people we shall merge; it is with their collective will that we shall forge victory to take over this country and lead the Nigerian people to enjoy the dividends of democracy.”
Following the suspension of Justice Inyang Ekwo by the National Judicial Council (NJC) over misconduct, activist and former Presidential Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has spoken out, stating that the judge was involved in the politically motivated attempt to hijack the party in 2019.
Justice Ekwo, according to Sowore, played a key role in an attempt to hijack the AAC party in 2019.
Sowore made it known that Justice Ekwo played a central role in the legal maneuver used by former Rivers State Governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike attempt to hijack the AAC. “Justice Inyang Ekwo was the judge utilized by Gov. (Now FCT Minister) Nyesom Wike in 2019 to hijack our party, the AAC. He’s brazen about his corruption,” Sowore said in a post on his social media handle.
He further described the broader state of Nigeria’s judiciary, especially at the Federal High Court in Abuja, as deeply compromised. “There are numerous judges in Nigeria… who are unfit to administer justice. The unfortunate reality is that they have caused irreparable damage to the justice system,” he said.
Sowore emphasized that it took three years of persistent legal battles to reclaim control of the AAC, crediting human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong for the victory.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticized President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State House of Assembly, and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), accusing them of working together to weaken the independence of local governments.
This comes despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that clearly supports the right of local governments to run their own affairs.
In a statement issued by AAC Lagos Chairman Ayoyinka Oni and signed by State Secretary Jedege Kehinde, the party condemned what it called a “calculated effort” by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and LASIEC to frustrate the implementation of genuine local government autonomy.
“This is a blatant disregard for the Supreme Court judgment which affirms the constitutional right of local governments to operate independently,” the statement read. “If no one else can govern a state where there’s an elected governor, why then should any person oversee local governments when there are elected chairmen?”
AAC pointed to the attempt by the Lagos State House of Assembly to pass a bill that would have empowered the governor to appoint Mayors to head Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
According to the statement, this move was thwarted only after a public backlash during a legislative hearing, where the AAC and other civic voices pushed back strongly.
The party also criticised the clandestine passage of a new Lagos State Electoral Law on January 9, 2025, which reportedly occurred while the House was on recess. Governor Sanwo-Olu signed the law the following day, prompting the AAC to decry what it described as a lack of transparency and public engagement.
“It is a big disappointment,” the AAC stated, recounting how the LASIEC Chair told the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) that the law had been passed and signed without public knowledge. “When asked for a copy, she said we should go and buy it—because she herself bought the copy she uses. Since when did laws become commodities for sale? These are documents that should be accessible to the public.”
AAC also denounced the introduction of administrative fees for candidates seeking to contest in the upcoming local government elections. The party argued that LASIEC’s decision, supported only by the APC, was both unconstitutional and exclusionary, noting that 18 other IPAC member parties had rejected the fees.
“LASIEC is not a revenue-generating agency. Budgetary allocations have already been made for the election. This move will only disenfranchise capable candidates who want to serve but cannot afford the cost,” the statement read.
Further expressing concerns over election security, the AAC questioned LASIEC’s readiness to prevent electoral violence—an issue that has plagued previous polls in Lagos.
“We will not accept elections engulfed with violence, malpractice, and partisanship. If LASIEC cannot assure a level playing ground, we will not hesitate to seek political and legal redress,” the party warned.
Additionally, the AAC criticised the state government’s continued recognition of LCDAs, which are not constitutionally backed, asserting that only the 20 constitutionally recognised local governments have legal standing.
“No state has the power to create new local governments outside the constitutional process. That is a national issue that requires constitutional amendment,” AAC said.
Calling on Lagosians to reject what it described as an “illegal arrangement,” the party rallied public support.
“We invite all well-meaning Lagosians to rise and reject this constitutional violation. We must liberate Lagos from those who refuse to allow it to grow,” the statement concluded.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has criticized President Bola Tinubu, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State House of Assembly, and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), accusing them of working together to weaken the independence of local governments.
This comes despite a recent Supreme Court ruling that clearly supports the right of local governments to run their own affairs.
In a statement issued by AAC Lagos Chairman Ayoyinka Oni and signed by State Secretary Jedege Kehinde, the party condemned what it called a “calculated effort” by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and LASIEC to frustrate the implementation of genuine local government autonomy.
“This is a blatant disregard for the Supreme Court judgment which affirms the constitutional right of local governments to operate independently,” the statement read. “If no one else can govern a state where there’s an elected governor, why then should any person oversee local governments when there are elected chairmen?”
AAC pointed to the attempt by the Lagos State House of Assembly to pass a bill that would have empowered the governor to appoint Mayors to head Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
According to the statement, this move was thwarted only after a public backlash during a legislative hearing, where the AAC and other civic voices pushed back strongly.
The party also criticised the clandestine passage of a new Lagos State Electoral Law on January 9, 2025, which reportedly occurred while the House was on recess. Governor Sanwo-Olu signed the law the following day, prompting the AAC to decry what it described as a lack of transparency and public engagement.
“It is a big disappointment,” the AAC stated, recounting how the LASIEC Chair told the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) that the law had been passed and signed without public knowledge. “When asked for a copy, she said we should go and buy it—because she herself bought the copy she uses. Since when did laws become commodities for sale? These are documents that should be accessible to the public.”
AAC also denounced the introduction of administrative fees for candidates seeking to contest in the upcoming local government elections. The party argued that LASIEC’s decision, supported only by the APC, was both unconstitutional and exclusionary, noting that 18 other IPAC member parties had rejected the fees.
“LASIEC is not a revenue-generating agency. Budgetary allocations have already been made for the election. This move will only disenfranchise capable candidates who want to serve but cannot afford the cost,” the statement read.
Further expressing concerns over election security, the AAC questioned LASIEC’s readiness to prevent electoral violence—an issue that has plagued previous polls in Lagos.
“We will not accept elections engulfed with violence, malpractice, and partisanship. If LASIEC cannot assure a level playing ground, we will not hesitate to seek political and legal redress,” the party warned.
Additionally, the AAC criticised the state government’s continued recognition of LCDAs, which are not constitutionally backed, asserting that only the 20 constitutionally recognised local governments have legal standing.
“No state has the power to create new local governments outside the constitutional process. That is a national issue that requires constitutional amendment,” AAC said.
Calling on Lagosians to reject what it described as an “illegal arrangement,” the party rallied public support.
“We invite all well-meaning Lagosians to rise and reject this constitutional violation. We must liberate Lagos from those who refuse to allow it to grow,” the statement concluded.
The African Action Congress (AAC) has declared itself the only true opposition party in Nigeria, following what it describes as the defection of yet another political figure to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adeyeye Olorunfemi, the National Publicity Secretary of the AAC, took to his social media platform to react to the reported defection of Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Delta State governor and vice-presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections.
According to Olorunfemi, Okowa joined the APC after being blackmailed with corruption charges by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which he referred to as “Tinubu’s EFCC.”
In his post, Olorunfemi stated: “Okowa, Atiku’s VP has joined the APC after being blackmailed with corruption charges by Tinubu’s EFCC. AAC is the only opposition in Nigeria!”
Olorunfemi’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the erosion of opposition voices in Nigeria’s political space. He emphasized that the defection of key figures from the PDP, which was once regarded as the main opposition party, shows the party’s compromise and inability to withstand pressure from the ruling government.
Olorunfemi reiterated that the AAC remains committed to its foundational principles of justice, transparency, and revolutionary change, asserting that it is now the only party standing firm against the ruling elite.
He accused the political establishment of weaponizing state institutions like the EFCC to intimidate and absorb opposition politicians into the fold of the APC.
The current development in our political landscape, particularly in Nigeria concerning how some individuals are trying to legitimate military rule in Burkina Faso and making frantic effort to encourage men in Khaki to take over government here, doesn’t only call for concern but need to be looked into by all that genuinely love the country.
Many of these people don’t really know what democracy means and the effort we made before we were able to send military away and many lives that were lost. Apart from the aforementioned events that led to the democracy rule in Nigeria, people should be able to weigh the merits of the democracy before embarking on the part of destruction.
I don’t have issue with whether Ibrahim Taore is performing or not, my stand remains recognition of the democracy over any form of government that can easily violate human rights.
It is not funny seeing, so called “Pro democracy” whitewashing and praising military junter in Nigeria. “Government of the people by the people and for the people” which is the democracy, have given us an opportunity of the periodic election, that we can reject unpopular government or political party that is making anti- people policies. Instead of the Nigerians to come together and reject all these people that represent their selfish interests, they are busy echoing the praise of the dictator in foreign land, so as to aid military coup in the country.
It is obvious that many are not interested in the well being of Nigeria. A country endowed with people like Mr Sowore Omoyele (Babayele) and people like us, they still find it difficult to see that, saviour they are looking for from Sokoto is actually in their Sókóto what they are traveling to look for in a long distance, is righly with them. From what I have seen about many Nigerians is that, they hate themselves and like to suffer. Many may think people actions are born out of the ignorance but NO! it is just sheer wickedness to themselves.
Rate at which some people on this platform believing in Ibrahim Taore than do everything possible to see Mr Sowore becomes Nigeria President really called for special research. We can all do better, if we take it as a duty to start enlightening the people about democracy not the one practicing presently in Nigeria but one that is embedded in African Action Congress (AAC) ideology , we will be doing people a lot of favor and as a result many will be getting loose from the shackle of the tribal, religious and political ignorance. Ibrahim Taore is not my concern but wrong perspective to the democracy many are pushing out need to be honestly tackled and dismantled, if not they will throw us back to the dark age.
The Lagos State chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) has announced a press conference scheduled to take place on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
The event will be held at Plot 16, Saratu Close, right after Araromi Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos.
According to the invitation signed by Folayemi Akinfolarin, Organizing Secretary, and Jedege Kehinde, State Secretary, the focus of the press briefing will be the state of local government elections in Lagos and what the party describes as the “lawlessness” of key state institutions.
Specifically, the AAC plans to address issues involving the Lagos State Government, the Lagos State House of Assembly, and the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).
In their communication to the press, AAC officials expressed grave concerns over what they allege to be unconstitutional practices, disregard for due process, and manipulative tactics deployed by the state authorities to suppress genuine democratic processes at the local level.
The AAC leadership plans to use the platform to outline the ongoing injustices, propose corrective measures, and unveil new strategies to ensure that grassroots democracy is protected in Lagos State.
Members of the media, civil society groups, and the general public are encouraged to attend as the AAC reaffirms its commitment to transparent governance, electoral integrity, and the protection of the democratic rights of all Lagosians.
The press conference is anticipated to set the stage for broader political discussions ahead of upcoming local government polls and could signal heightened political activities in the state in the coming months.
