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Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri Makes History as Morocco’s First Female Prime Minister

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

Morocco has recorded a historic milestone in its political history.

King Mohammed VI has appointed Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri as the country’s first female Prime Minister, following the parliamentary elections of September 23, 2026.

El Mansouri was formally appointed at the Royal Palace in Rabat on Tuesday, September 29, after her party, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), won 97 out of 395 seats in the House of Representatives to secure a plurality. She succeeds outgoing Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.

Her appointment makes her the second woman ever to lead a government in the Arab world, after Tunisia’s Najla Bouden.

As the national coordinator of PAM’s collective leadership, El Mansouri will now lead executive governance, drive national economic strategy and shape social policy at a critical time for the North African nation. Her immediate task is to build a stable governing coalition with partner parties including the National Rally of Independents and the Istiqlal Party.

Her administration will also oversee major national priorities including infrastructure upgrades, post-earthquake regional development, expansion of direct housing support, and preparations for Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Born in Marrakesh in 1976, El Mansouri is a lawyer by training. She earned advanced law degrees from the University of Montpellier in France and New York University in the United States, and built a career in commercial and real estate law.

She first rose to national prominence in 2009 when she became the first woman elected Mayor of Marrakesh at age 33. She has since served multiple terms in parliament, returned as Mayor of Marrakesh in 2021, and served as Minister of National Spatial Planning, Urban Development, Housing and City Policy before her elevation to Prime Minister.

Her appointment marks a decisive breakthrough for women in political leadership in North Africa and across the Arab world.

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Politics

Pastor Funke Awolowo Throws Her Weight Behind Young Aspirant Makanjuola, Calls for More Youth in Politics

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By Prosper Mene 

Pastor Mrs. Funke Awolowo, granddaughter of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has expressed strong support for the political aspirations of young Nigerian politician Makanjuola Oluwafemi Emmanuel, urging the country to intentionally create space for a new generation of leaders.

In a message directed to the young aspirant, Pastor Awolowo described the inclusion of young people in politics as more than a slogan, stressing the need to deliberately empower emerging politicians who are prepared to contribute to the nation’s development.

According to her, Makanjuola has demonstrated himself across areas of modern governance and continues to show the passion and patriotism required to remain engaged in the struggle for a better Nigeria.

She noted that while some people of her generation may be becoming discouraged by the state of affairs in the country, young people like Makanjuola continue to serve as voices encouraging Nigerians to fight, speak up and remain relevant in the pursuit of national progress.

“We must intentionally enable the up and coming politicians,” Pastor Awolowo stated, adding that the young aspirant’s passion comes from a patriotic commitment to Nigeria.

She further expressed a desire to see more young people follow the path of active participation in governance, particularly those willing to challenge existing anomalies and work towards greater righteousness and accountability.

A WOMAN’S VOICE FOR A NEW GENERATION

For Women Times, Pastor Awolowo’s message is significant not only because of her family heritage, but also because it represents the voice of a woman encouraging greater participation by younger Nigerians in the political process.

Women have historically played important roles in shaping communities, institutions and political movements, and the call for intergenerational cooperation remains relevant as Nigeria considers the future of its leadership.

Pastor Awolowo’s message therefore goes beyond one political aspirant. It raises a broader question: How intentionally is Nigeria creating room for young people, particularly young women and men, to contribute meaningfully to governance?

She concluded her message to Makanjuola with a firm encouragement to continue moving forward, expressing confidence in his ability to pursue his political aspirations.

“Go forward, FEMI,” she wrote, ending with the message: “Where there is a will, the way opens of its own accord.”

Makanjuola is the Action Alliance candidate for the Federal House of Representatives in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2, Lagos State, where he has built his political message around a new generation of people-oriented and accountable leadership.

Pastor Awolowo’s message adds her voice to the growing conversation about youth participation, intergenerational leadership and the need to create space for a new generation in Nigerian politics.

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NewsPolitics

Badenoch Says New UK Prime Minister “Not the Leader Britain Needs”

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By Prosper Mene

LONDON — Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has criticised the new UK Prime Minister, saying the person in office is “not the leader Britain needs at this time.”

Speaking during a media briefing in Westminster on Wednesday, Badenoch said the country is facing serious economic and social challenges that require “clear direction, strong values, and decisive leadership.”

“The new Prime Minister is not the leader Britain needs,” Badenoch said. “At a time when families are struggling with the cost of living, when our public services are under pressure, and when we need to restore confidence in government, Britain deserves better.”

The Conservative leader did not name specific policies but argued that the current government has failed to provide the stability and long-term vision required to move the country forward.

“We need leadership that puts the British people first, that cuts waste, that backs enterprise, and that restores pride in our institutions,” she added. “That is what the Conservative Party stands for, and that is what I will deliver.”

Badenoch’s comments come amid growing political debate in the UK over the economy, immigration, and public service reform. The new Prime Minister took office following recent changes at 10 Downing Street.

In response, a spokesperson for Number 10 said the government remains “focused on delivering for the British people” and is “getting on with the job of growing the economy and improving public services.”

Political analysts say Badenoch’s statement signals the start of a more aggressive opposition strategy as the Conservative Party seeks to reposition itself ahead of the next general election.

 

 

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Politics

Ondo APC Women Pledge 500,000 Votes for Tinubu’s Re-election Bid

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By Prosper Mene

AKURE — Women leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ondo State have pledged to deliver 500,000 votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

The pledge was made on Tuesday during a strategic meeting of the Ondo APC Women Wing held in Akure, the state capital. The meeting was attended by party leaders, women coordinators from the 18 local government areas, and stakeholders across the three senatorial districts.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the APC Women Leader in Ondo State, Mrs. Yetunde Adeyanju, said women remain the backbone of the party’s mobilization structure and are fully committed to ensuring Tinubu’s re-election.

“We, the women of APC in Ondo State, have resolved to mobilize 500,000 votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027,” Adeyanju declared. “Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is already impacting lives, and women are feeling the benefits through various empowerment and social intervention programmes.”

She added that the women wing has commenced grassroots sensitization across markets, schools, churches, and communities to enlighten voters on the achievements of the Tinubu administration.

Also speaking at the event, the State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, commended the women for their loyalty and organizational strength. He urged them to sustain the momentum and ensure massive voter turnout during the elections.

“Women are the greatest mobilizers in politics. With the energy I am seeing today, I have no doubt that Ondo APC will deliver overwhelmingly for President Tinubu,” Adetimehin said.

The meeting ended with the inauguration of local government mobilization teams tasked with voter education, PVC collection drives, and door-to-door campaigns ahead of 2027.

 

 

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𝗡𝗥𝗠 𝗻𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗢𝗸𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗸𝗲 𝗮𝘀 2027 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 ‎

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By Prosper Mene

The National Rescue Movement (NRM) has formally nominated Nollywood actress and philanthropist Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

Okereke, popularly known in the entertainment industry, emerged as the party’s consensus candidate after a screening process and national convention held in Abuja on Friday. She defeated two other aspirants — Ademola Joseph Onigbokun and Oluwadare Joseph Faduri — to clinch the ticket.

Party leaders described her emergence as a strategic move to inject fresh leadership and rescue Nigeria from what they termed years of systemic failure, economic hardship, insecurity, and corruption.

In her acceptance speech, Dr. Okereke expressed deep humility and commitment to the task ahead.

“Today, with deep humility, a profound sense of duty, and unwavering faith in the destiny of our beloved nation, I stand before you to formally accept this nomination as the Presidential Candidate and standard bearer of the National Rescue Movement.”

She described her candidacy as “a sacred assignment” aimed at national renewal and vowed to tackle key challenges facing the country.

The National Chairman of the NRM, Prince (Dr) Chinedu Obi, praised the transparency of the process, noting that Okereke was the only aspirant who fully met all constitutional and party requirements. He positioned the 2027 election as a critical opportunity for Nigerians to choose genuine change.

Who is Esther Okereke?

Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke is a seasoned Nollywood actress and film producer known for her roles in movies such as A Woman’s Plight, Wedding Saga, and Crux. She is also recognized for her philanthropic work and business interests across multiple sectors. Her supporters often refer to her as Dr. NEO.

Her entry into the presidential race adds a unique dimension to the evolving 2027 political landscape, joining a growing list of opposition figures expected to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and other major contenders.

Political analysts view the NRM as a relatively young but ambitious party seeking to carve a niche through unconventional leadership recruitment.

As the political atmosphere heats up toward 2027, all eyes will be on how Dr. Esther Okereke translates her popularity in the entertainment industry into broad-based political support across Nigeria’s diverse regions.

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NewsPolitics

𝗘𝘅-𝗔𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝘃 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗔𝗖 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲 ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

Awka, Nigeria – May 21, 2026

By Prosper Mene 

Chioma Grace Ifemeludike, the former African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in the 2025 Anambra State election, has emerged as the party’s senatorial candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Her emergence was announced following what party sources described as a consensus arrangement within the AAC structures in Anambra State. Ifemeludike, a Nollywood actress, filmmaker, activist, and politician, contested the November 2025 governorship poll under the AAC banner, where she gained significant public attention for her grassroots campaign and unconventional style.

In her acceptance statement, Ifemeludike expressed gratitude to party leaders and members for the opportunity, pledging to deliver quality representation, promote good governance, and champion the interests of the people of Anambra Central if elected.

“I am honoured by this call to serve at the senatorial level. Anambra Central deserves focused, accountable, and people-oriented representation that tackles infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, and economic empowerment,” she said.

Ifemeludike’s transition from the governorship race to the senatorial contest is viewed by political observers as a strategic move to build on her visibility from the 2025 polls and strengthen the AAC’s presence in Anambra politics. The party, known for its leftist and revolutionary ideology under national leader Omoyele Sowore, has been working to expand its footprint in the South East.

Anambra Central Senatorial District, which includes key local government areas such as Awka North and South, Idemili North and South, and Anaocha, is traditionally competitive, with major parties expected to field strong candidates for the 2027 polls.

Stakeholders within the AAC have welcomed her candidacy, describing her as a vibrant voice capable of mobilising young people and women in the district. Her supporters highlight her commitment to integrity, social justice, and inclusive development.

As political activities gradually heat up towards 2027, Ifemeludike’s entry is expected to add vibrancy to the senatorial race and further position the AAC as an alternative platform in Anambra State politics.

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NewsPolitics

PDP Screens Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Kogi Central Senatorial Re-Election Bid

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By Prosper Mene

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday screened Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for the Kogi Central Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The screening exercise, held in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, forms part of the party’s internal processes to prepare aspirants for primaries across various positions. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the 10th National Assembly, participated fully prepared with all required credentials and supporting documents.

Speaking after the exercise, the senator expressed gratitude to PDP leaders, supporters, and the people of Kogi Central for their sustained confidence in her leadership.

“Today, I travelled to Lokoja to participate in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) screening exercise for aspirants seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections,” she said. “Taking no chances, I arrived fully prepared… I am pleased to have successfully completed the screening exercise as part of the process ahead of the party primaries for the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial Election under the platform of the PDP.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan described the screening as a vital democratic step and reaffirmed her commitment to purposeful representation. She pledged that, if re-elected for a second term, her agenda would prioritise:

Massive youth and women empowerment programmes.

Expansion of educational opportunities through scholarships and learning support.

Rural road rehabilitation and infrastructure development.

Improved healthcare delivery.

Support for small-scale businesses and entrepreneurs.

Attraction of more federal projects to the district.

Enhanced electricity supply, community security collaboration, job creation, and economic growth across the five local government areas of Kogi Central.

She emphasised that her bid is rooted in service, unity, and inclusive leadership, declaring: “This represents a renewed commitment to quality representation, purposeful leadership, and continued service to the people… For love. For people. For service. 2027.”

Supporters across Kogi Central have welcomed her participation, viewing it as a significant step toward the PDP primaries and the general elections. Her re-election bid is reportedly gaining momentum among party stakeholders, youths, women groups, and grassroots mobilisers.

This comes after the senator recently submitted her Expression of Interest and Nomination forms, positioning herself as a strong contender in what could be a high-stakes contest for the Kogi Central seat.

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Aisha Yesufu Dumps ADC, Joins NDC, Declares Bid for FCT Senate Seat

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By Prosper Mene

Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has officially resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), where she has declared her candidacy for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

Yesufu announced her decision on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, through her verified social media accounts. She attributed the move to her decision to align with the leadership of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, describing him as one who “embodies the hope and aspiration of a Nigeria that works.

“The next couple of days will define the future of this nation. This deeper understanding is why I resigned from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as I follow the leadership of HE Peter Obi…

“This time I am joining the NDC not just as a member but as one running for the FCT Senatorial seat,” she stated.

Yesufu’s defection is the latest in a wave of high-profile exits from the ADC following reports of internal crises and the movement of key opposition figures, including Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, to the NDC.

The activist, well-known as co-convener of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign and a vocal advocate for good governance, is expected to inject fresh energy and visibility into the NDC’s FCT structure. Her senatorial bid sets up a potential high-profile contest against incumbent Senator Ireti Kingibe of the ADC, whose political fate within her party remains uncertain ahead of a court judgment scheduled for May 18, 2026.

Political analysts view Yesufu’s move as part of a broader realignment in the opposition ahead of 2027, as parties jostle for relevance and strong candidates in key constituencies like the FCT.

Reactions have begun to pour in, with supporters hailing her decision as bold while critics question the frequency of her party sw.

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Politics

ADC Suspension: Ireti Kingibe to know fate May 18

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By Prosper Mene

The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 18, 2026, to deliver judgment in a suit seeking to uphold the indefinite suspension of Senator Ireti Kingibe by the Wuse Ward chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Justice Peter Lifu made the announcement on Wednesday after hearing arguments from both parties in the matter. The suit, filed by the Wuse Ward Executive Committee of the ADC, prays the court to declare Senator Kingibe’s suspension valid and subsisting, and to restrain her from parading herself as a member of the party.

Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Senate, was suspended indefinitely on March 10, 2026, by the Wuse Ward chapter. The ward executives accused her of anti-party activities, insubordination, gross misconduct, and alleged violation of the party’s constitution, including the confiscation of ward statutory records.

The suspension was announced by the then Wuse Ward Chairman, Kanayo Chukwu, during a stakeholders’ meeting. The ward claimed the decision was ratified by a two-thirds majority of the executive committee and properly communicated to relevant party organs.

However, the suspension triggered a rift within the ADC. The national leadership of the party and the FCT chapter initially distanced themselves from the action, describing it as unconstitutional and contrary to party procedures. The FCT chapter reportedly nullified the suspension and sanctioned some ward officials involved.

During proceedings, counsel to the plaintiffs argued for the validity of the suspension, while Kingibe’s legal team opposed the suit. The court had earlier granted an order for substituted service of court documents on the senator.

In an earlier ruling, Justice Lifu declined to grant an interim order stopping Senator Kingibe from participating in ADC activities pending the determination of the main suit.

The judgment on May 18 will be significant not only for Senator Kingibe’s status within the ADC but also for the broader internal dynamics of the party in the FCT. As the sole ADC senator representing the territory, her political alignment and activities have drawn considerable attention.

Stakeholders are watching closely to see whether the court upholds the ward-level suspension or sides with arguments emphasizing higher party structures and due process.

Further details on the judgment and reactions from the parties are expected after the May 18 ruling.

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Politics

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Buys Senate Nomination Forms, Eyes Second Term in 2027

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By Prosper Mene

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has formally purchased her nomination and expression of interest forms for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), signalling her bid for re-election in the 2027 National Assembly elections.

The senator received the forms on Monday in Abuja from her husband, Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, who purchased them on her behalf. She expressed profound gratitude to him for his unwavering support, stating that his approval was crucial to her decision to seek a second term.

“If you had said no, I would not have taken this step towards the 2027 Kogi Central Senatorial elections,” the senator remarked while accepting the forms.

In a statement issued by her media aide, Mike Idoko, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan thanked the people of Kogi Central for their continued support and endorsements. She highlighted the progress recorded during her current tenure and pledged to build on her legacy of people-driven initiatives, empowerment programmes, and inclusive development.

“Together, we will build a Kogi Central that works for all,” she added, promising expanded opportunities and responsive governance if re-elected.

The move comes amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 polls. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has positioned herself as a strong voice for her district, is expected to face stiff competition, including potential challenges from prominent figures in Kogi politics.

Her re-election bid has already garnered significant attention, with supporters describing her as a dedicated representative committed to the development of Kogi Central and the state at large.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was first elected to the Senate in 2023 under the PDP platform.

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