A significant internal power struggle is brewing within Nigeria's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 2027 political cycle begins to take shape. Governors elected on the party's platform are reportedly scheming to exact a political 'pound of flesh' from senators and members of the House of Representatives. This move is a direct response to what the governors consider a betrayal, specifically related to recent amendments to the nation's Electoral Act and other sundry infractions, setting the stage for a major confrontation within the party's ranks.
The governors' aggressive posture appears to be at odds with signals from the presidency regarding the fate of incumbent lawmakers. There is a clear conflict in the party's stated positions on re-election prospects. On one hand, it is claimed that President Bola Tinubu hinted he would wish to see the return of all of the party’s federal lawmakers to the National Assembly. Conversely, a separate claim states that Tinubu, during an interfaith event with House members led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas at the State House, hinted at returning a majority of the lawmakers except in areas governed by rotational and zoning arrangements. This contradiction between 'all' and 'majority except some' reveals underlying tensions over candidate selection and political control.
This political maneuvering occurs as Nigerians grapple with a sharp and simultaneous increase in the prices of essential fuels. Verified data shows the price of cooking gas has risen to N1,200 per kilogram from N1,000 per kg. The cost of diesel, critical for powering businesses and generators, has also increased to N1,300 per litre from N1,200 per litre. These hikes place additional strain on households and enterprises already facing economic challenges.
The most direct impact on the public comes from the rise in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The price has climbed to N939 per litre from N837 per litre. This increase directly affects transportation costs and the price of goods and services across the country, contributing to inflationary pressures and reducing disposable income for millions of citizens.
The domestic energy price surge is partly linked to volatility in the global oil market. The price of crude oil, Nigeria's primary export, rose to $84 per barrel from $75 per barrel last week. This increase typically translates to higher landing costs for refined petroleum products in an import-dependent market like Nigeria's, providing a contextual backdrop for the rising pump prices witnessed locally.
Global oil markets are facing further uncertainty due to escalating military conflict in the Middle East. It is reported that Israel and the US commenced attacks on Iran. In a related development, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the Straits of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping chokepoint, would be blocked. Any disruption to traffic through this strait could severely constrain global oil supply and trigger further price spikes, with direct consequences for Nigeria's economy and fuel subsidy calculations.
In a separate development from the political and economic headlines, a sporting event is set to honor Nigeria's First Lady. No fewer than 75 women golfers from across Nigeria are expected to compete in the inaugural Oluremi Tinubu golf classic. The one-day tournament, named in honour of Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Canaanland Golf and Country Club in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State. The event was announced by Felix Aganbi, Chief Executive Officer of Akogate Group.
Meanwhile, in a related political note from the opposition, the judgment of the Federal High Court in Ibadan validated the Ibadan PDP convention. This legal ruling led to the emergence of the Taninu Turaki-led executive in 2025, providing a contrast to the internal disputes currently affecting the APC. As the ruling party navigates its internal conflicts and the populace contends with rising costs, the political landscape continues to evolve with significant implications for governance and economic stability.
