Leading political figures and media professionals are set to gather in Abuja on Wednesday for the public launch of two new books that explore Nigeria’s democratic journey. The event will be held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre and is expected to attract former governors, lawmakers, party leaders, and top journalists.
The author of both books, Ike Abonyi, is a respected journalist and political strategist. He has worked with leading national newspapers and served in top editorial positions. His latest works are titled The Bubbles of Nigeria’s Democracy: The Musings of a Nigerian Journalist and Wadata Wonders: Memoirs of a Partisan Journalist.
These two titles offer a personal and professional account of Nigeria’s political growth. One book shares insights from Abonyi’s long-running newspaper columns, while the other gives behind-the-scenes views of his time as Media Adviser to two national party leaders.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi are expected to attend. They will be joined by Martins Oloja, a veteran editor, who will review the books during the launch.
The event is organized by a committee led by Alhaji Umar Sani and Madu Onuorah. It aims to encourage national reflection on Nigeria’s political system, elections, and governance.
The keynote speech, titled How Did We Get Here?, will be delivered by Chief John Nnia Nwodo. He is a former Minister of Information and the past leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. His lecture is expected to provide deeper understanding of Nigeria’s present political state.
Alhaji Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a renowned banker and former presidential aspirant, will chair the ceremony. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also heads the PDP Governors’ Forum, will serve as the Chief Book Presenter.
Other presenters include Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State. Several more state governors are expected to attend, including those from Imo, Adamawa, Zamfara, Taraba, Delta, Cross River, Bayelsa, and Osun States.
Many former governors are also on the guest list. These include Achike Udenwa and Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State, Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, Lucky Igbinedion of Edo State, and both Ibrahim Idris and Idris Wada from Kogi State. Former Benue State Governors Samuel Ortom and Gabriel Suswam are also expected.
Lawmakers from the National Assembly—past and present—are invited. Party leaders, including former PDP Chairmen and members of its National Executive Committee and National Working Committee, will also take part.
Ike Abonyi said the books reflect years of his journalistic work and political service. The Bubbles of Nigeria’s Democracy is based on weekly opinion pieces he wrote for over ten years. Wadata Wonders focuses on his role as a communicator within the PDP and his work during key political moments.
The book launch will bring together voices from different parts of the country. The event aims to stir reflection on democracy, leadership, and how Nigeria can move forward.
