Morning Recap: Fubara Withdraws from Rivers APC Primary, Coup Trial Colonel Challenges Court Jurisdiction

In Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has made a significant move by withdrawing from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election. This decision, personally signed and announced on Wednesday, indicates a shift in the state's political landscape. Fubara stated his intention to support whomever emerges as the party's candidate, a move that follows extensive consultations with his family, friends, and political associates. The full implications of this withdrawal on the state's political dynamics are yet to be seen, but it signals a potentially pivotal moment for the APC in Rivers State.

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Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress governorship primary election in the state.

Meanwhile, the ongoing trial related to an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu has seen a notable legal challenge. Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, the second accused among 36 individuals facing charges of mutiny and conspiracy, has contested the authority of the Defence Headquarters Garrison General Court Martial in Asokoro, Abuja. Ma’aji's legal team has filed a preliminary objection, arguing that the military tribunal lacks the jurisdiction to preside over the case. This challenge seeks to have the charges against him and 35 others dismissed, introducing a significant procedural hurdle in the high-profile coup trial.

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Ma’aji, in a preliminary objection filed before the court martial in charge No: DHQ/GAR/ABJ/49/ADM, between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Brig Gen M.A. Sadiq, Col Ma’aji, alongside 35 others, urged the court martial to strike out the charges instituted against him, arguing that the military tribunal lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the case.

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has enacted a new measure to enhance security governance by signing Executive Order 001 of 2026. This order aims to regulate associations, groups, and organizations that provide security and related services within the state. Governor Makinde emphasized the necessity of establishing a clear legal and operational framework for all security-related entities, including vigilante and community-based security groups. The objective is to ensure these operations align with the principles of peace, order, and the rule of law, providing a more structured approach to internal security.

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He said the move was necessary to ensure that all groups and associations involved in security-related activities, such as vigilante and community-based security groups, operate within a clear legal and operational framework that supports peace, order and rule of law in the state.