Marafa, who served in the Senate between 2011 and 2019, was formally received in Abuja on Tuesday by top NDC leaders, including former Bayelsa State Governor and party figure Seriake Dickson, NDC Chairman Moses Cleopas, and National Women Leader Dudu Manuga. He arrived with a group of his supporters.

His defection comes just weeks after he joined the ADC on April 8, 2026, following his exit from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in August 2025, making it his second party switch within a short period.

Explaining his decision, Marafa cited concerns over ongoing legal disputes involving the ADC, as well as limited time before key electoral deadlines. He said the uncertainty created by court cases made it difficult to plan effectively for upcoming elections.

He noted that aspirants must align with a stable and legally secure political platform ahead of the close of party registration, warning that prolonged litigation could leave him and his supporters without a viable structure.

Marafa added that the decision was reached after careful consultations with his supporters and legal advisers, whose input influenced the final move to the NDC.

He also stated that he and his group would support the party’s eventual decision on its presidential candidate.

Welcoming him, Seriake Dickson described Marafa’s defection as a significant gain for the NDC, particularly in Zamfara State and the wider North-West, expressing confidence that his experience would strengthen the party’s presence and contribute to addressing insecurity in the region.

NDC Chairman Moses Cleopas said the party remains committed to inclusivity and is opening its platform to young people, women, and persons with disabilities as political activities intensify ahead of the next election cycle.

The encounter exploded into life at the Parc des Princes, with Harry Kane putting Bayern ahead from the penalty spot. Kvaratskhelia quickly restored parity with a fine finish before João Neves headed PSG into the lead. Michael Olise then brought Bayern level again in a frantic opening half.

PSG went back in front just before half-time when Dembélé converted from the spot after a handball by Alphonso Davies. After the restart, the French champions extended their advantage as Kvaratskhelia completed a flowing team move, before Dembélé added another with a low strike that beat Manuel Neuer to make it 5–2.

Bayern refused to back down. Dayot Upamecano scored with a header from a Joshua Kimmich free-kick, while Luis Díaz added another to reduce the deficit and keep the tie alive.

The result sets up a decisive second leg at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, May 6, with a place in the final in Budapest still up for grabs. PSG coach Luis Enrique will take a narrow lead into the return fixture, where his side previously triumphed in last season’s final against Inter Milan.

Osifo described himself as a legitimate contender, saying he has faced similar allegations in past elections, including in 2018 and 2019 when he contested under a different political party.

The Edo-born businessman drew attention after purchasing the APC expression of interest and nomination forms for ₦100 million on Tuesday, receiving them at the Ladi Kwali International Conference Centre, Abuja Continental Hotel, from APC National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Argungu.

His move sparked speculation that his candidacy may have been influenced by the presidency to simulate internal party competition. However, Osifo strongly rejected the claim.

He insisted that he is not funded by President Tinubu or any political actor, adding that his campaign is self-driven and backed by divine provision.

“This is not the first time I’m hearing such claims. Nobody is sponsoring me. Even in 2018 and 2019, similar allegations were made. The President has never given me any money. I rely on what God has provided,” he said.

Osifo added that his ambition is supported by party stakeholders and built on extensive political groundwork.

He also expressed readiness to participate in any primary election format chosen by the APC leadership, saying he respects internal party processes.

According to him, his presidential bid is motivated by a desire to transform Nigeria through integrity, innovation, and inclusive development.

“The time has come for Nigeria to undergo total transformation. My aspiration is anchored on building a nation that works for all,” he said.

His campaign is based on a reform blueprint titled “Metamorphosis 2027,” which he says is designed to address Nigeria’s key socio-economic and security challenges.