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INEC Confirms Implementation Of ECOWAS Recommendations On Election Reforms

By
Ayodele Oni
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Prof Mahmood Yakubu

By Ayodele Oni

The ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC), team is in Nigeria on a post-election follow-up by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The ECONEC team is evaluating the progress made on a broader set of 37 reform recommendations issued after the 2023 polls.

The team, led by Chairperson of Liberia’s National Elections Commission, Mrs. Davidetta Browne-Lansana will also  see how INEC has responded and addressed to the post election recommendations.

Others include senior officials from Ghana’s Electoral Commission, the ECOWAS Electoral Assistance Division, and technical partners from GIZ, EISA, and International IDEA.

At a meeting with the team members, on Monday in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu informed that the Commission has fully implemented all 13 recommendations directed to it by the ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM) following Nigeria’s 2023 General Elections.

Prof. Yakubu affirmed INEC’s commitment to electoral improvement, noting that the Commission had acted swiftly on all recommendations within its administrative capacity.

“Of the 13 recommendations addressed to INEC, we have fully implemented those requiring administrative action. Others that involve legal reforms are awaiting action by the National Assembly.”

He added that INEC’s internal reform drive incorporates the ECOWAS proposals into a broader post-election review process, culminating in a 142-point reform document developed through nationwide consultations.

While Prof. Yakubu did not list each of the 13 recommendations, he noted they spanned vital operational areas such as election logistics, result transmission systems, training of personnel, voter education, ICT infrastructure resilience, inclusion of marginalized groups, and inter-agency coordination on election security.

He also reiterated that ECOWAS made a total of 37 recommendations—13 directed to INEC and 24 to other institutions including the National Assembly, the Nigeria Police Force, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), political parties, and civil society organisations.

Prof. Yakubu welcomed the ECONEC mission as an opportunity for mutual learning and accountability, emphasizing the importance of post-election peer engagements in strengthening democratic institutions across West Africa.

“Observation missions are not just about writing reports; the real value lies in follow-up and continued engagement. We appreciate this visit as a demonstration of solidarity and commitment to improving electoral processes across the region.”

He also commended Nigeria’s development partners, especially GIZ, EISA, and International IDEA, for their technical and financial support in driving electoral reforms.

Responding on behalf of the ECONEC Mission, Mrs. Browne-Lansanah praised INEC’s transparency and cooperation, describing the visit as a peer-review exercise aimed at drawing regional lessons from Nigeria’s electoral experience.

“We came to see how INEC has responded to our recommendations. The challenges Nigeria faced are similar to those faced across the sub-region, and we hope to learn from your solutions,” she said.

She expressed deep gratitude to Nigeria for its leadership and solidarity in supporting other West African electoral commissions, especially Liberia, citing INEC’s critical support in equipping her country’s electoral ICT infrastructure.

“Through ECONEC and Nigeria’s leadership, we were able to establish an ICT centre in Liberia. Your support changed the trajectory of our election management,” she said emotionally.

Mrs. Browne-Lansanah reaffirmed ECONEC’s commitment to promoting collaborative learning, stating that lessons from Nigeria’s 2023 elections would help inform electoral improvements across the sub-region.

“We are here to learn, share, and replicate best practices. Strengthening electoral bodies is key to sustaining democracy in West Africa.”

PDP Slams Governor Abdulrazaq, Says Plan to Build New Govt House Is Misplaced Priority

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State

By Akinwale Kasali

The plan by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State to build a new and befitting Government House in Illorin, Kwara State Capital, have been condemned by the opposition  Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the State.

The Kwara State Chapter of the PDP raised eyebrow following the recent disclosure by Governor Abdulrazaq that he would embark on the construction of a new Government House Secretariat.

The PDP through Olusegun Adewara, the State’s Publicity Secretary, stated that the move is considered not only illogical but also a glaring example of misplaced priority and an attempt to siphon the collective resources of the State.

In a statement signed by Adewara, the PDP questioned the rationale behind this venture, especially at a time when several communities in Kwara State are groaning under the weight of severe infrastructural deficits—ranging from deplorable roads, collapsed school structures, poorly equipped hospitals, and a worsening poverty rate

“Governor Abdulrazaq has barely two years left in office. What pressing need does a new Government House Secretariat serve at this twilight of his administration?

“This clearly reinforces our belief that the project is a smokescreen for looting—a backdoor channel to divert state funds under the guise of infrastructure development.

“The existing Government House complex, despite its luxuries and aesthetic rating remains grossly underutilized due to Mr Governor’s refusal to use it since 2019 and yet, every year, this administration allocates and spends hundreds of millions of Naira on its maintenance.

“For example, in 2021, about N3.2bn was budgeted for Government House renovation by Governor Abdulrahman.

“We challenge Governor Abdulrazaq to come clean and publish the full contract details and amount associated with this questionable project.

“Kwarans deserve to know how their commonwealth is being deployed—especially at a time when many families are struggling to survive amid biting economic hardship and government neglect.

“We also ask: of what economic or governance value is a new Government House Secretariat to the people of Kwara when the present one is not being used?

“How does this white elephant project reflect the urgent developmental needs of our people, particularly in rural areas that lack access to the most basic infrastructure?

“Even more disturbing is the report that this contract—if at all justifiable—is being awarded to a foreign contractor.

“This is a direct contradiction of the Otoge campaign promise that pledged to empower local contractors and boost indigenous enterprise as a means to stimulate the state economy.

“The PDP urges Kwarans to remain vigilant and not allow this administration to mortgage the future of our children with vanity projects that neither reflect our immediate priorities nor deliver any long-term benefit to the people”, the Statement reads.

Inclusive African Children’s Runway Returns

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Inclusive Runway

The Inclusive African Children’s Runway is set to take place next weekend, August 2, 2025, at the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Exhibition Pavilion in Abuja.

Organized by The Engraced Ones Prayer Support and Advocacy Initiative, this event brings together children of diverse physical and intellectual abilities for a vibrant fashion showcase that promotes disability inclusion, cultural pride and social justice. The third edition of this anticipated event aims to continue its mission of breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive community.

Since its debut in 2023, the Inclusive African Children’s Runway has evolved into a dynamic platform where children with disabilities taking center stage, redefining beauty, shattering stereotypes, and amplifying unheard voices. With each edition, it continues to inspire a rising generation of advocates who believe in a world where every child matters and every child is seen.

This year’s event follows the momentum of the international edition held in April 2025 in Dayton, USA, which echoed the same message across borders: every child deserves to be seen and celebrated.

This edition promises more culture, colour, courage, and a deeper call to action. Through the universal language of fashion, music, and storytelling, the event brings families, allies, and changemakers together to demand equal access to education, inclusive policies, and safe environments where all children—regardless of ability—can thrive and shine.

“Too many children grow up unseen, their dreams dimmed by silence and exclusion. The Inclusive African Children’s Runway changes that. It’s where stories come alive, confidence is celebrated, and inclusion becomes a lived experience,” said Biboara Yinkere, Convener of the event.

The organizers call “on individuals, professionals, brands, organizations, and changemakers to walk with us. Support can come in many forms—sponsorship, medical input, technical expertise, professional services, publicity partnerships, or volunteer engagement. Together, we can build stages where confidence blooms and inclusion becomes part of every child’s daily reality.”

Adamawa PDP Says Atiku’s Exit, Good Riddance

By
James Orji
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Atiku Abubakar

The Adamawa State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has dismissed claims that the exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the party could spell doom for the party in the state.

A chieftain of the PDP in the state who doubles as its organising secretary Hamza Madagali, told Punch that Abubakar will not be missed, adding that the party’s structure is bigger than any individual.

Adamawa is controlled by the PDP as the ruling party but Governor Umaru  Fintiri, a former ally of Abubakar had lately  joined the faction led by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike to fight the former Vice President.

Some analysts even posit that Governor Fintiri may be rooting for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who Wike is working for to come back to office in 2027.

The development, sources said forced Abubakar out of the party, after realising that his presidential ambition is seriously endangered with Governor Fintiri and Wike in tow with the Tinubu’s re-election bid.

According to those watching the politics of the state closely, the fortunes of the party in the state could nosedive considering that Abubakar, a big fish in the PDP, as one of its founding fathers, and until recently a strong member and financier, had left.

Abubakar, had recently resigned officially from the PDP to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC, citing the fact that the party has been hijacked by money bags. But his opponents had replied him, saying he left because his influence has been whittled down, by forces stronger than him, and the possibility of him securing the party’s ticket for the 2027 presidential election has become almost impossible.

According to Magadali, only three officials of the PDP in the state of the 286 state executives cuting across the local governments and wards, decided to join Abubakar in the ADC, adding that their exit will not affect the party’s chances in the 2027 election.

He said, “The Jada Local Government PDP chairman, the women leader, and one other ward executive member were the only three that joined the former vice president in his new party,

“Adamawa PDP shares have been over subscribed by the people, so collapsing such a great institution built by people is not an individual task.”

In a letter dated July 14 and addressed to the chairman of the PDP in his Jada 1 Ward, Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Abubakar said his resignation was based on the fact that the leadership of the party no longer adhere to the principles established by the party’s founding leaders.

“I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the Party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for,” he wrote “It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognizing the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.”

2027: Obi Will Return To PDP

By
James Orji
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Ali Modu Sheriff
Ali Modu Sheriff

The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, is planning to return to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to contest the 2027 presidential election, says Alimodu Sheriff.

Sheriff, a former governor of Borno state and a chieftain of the All Progressives congress, APC made the remark on Monday on  Channels Television programme Politics Today.

The former governor said Obi is trying to achieve his presidential ambition by any means possible, and may move back to the PDP.

Recall that the former governor of Anambra state dumped the PDP ahead the 2023 election  after it became clear to him that his presidential quest would not be realized in the party

He later joined the LP where he surprisingly put up a strong showing during the 2023 presidential election by coming third with over six million votes in the election that produced Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC as president.

Ahead the next presidential election, political analysts insist that securing the LP presidential ticket could be very difficult for him, considering that the party is now polarised between his supporters and those of the National Chairman of the party, Julius Abure.

With the LP crisis getting worse by the day, close watchers of events in the country say Obi may look elsewhere to realized his presidential quest.

He had recently joined the coalition of opposition leaders in the country such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola under the African Democratic Congress, ADC, the party the leaders said will be used a vehicle to oust President Tinubu and APC from office.

But speaking, Sheriff said he has in on good authority that the former Anambra governor may dump the LP for the PDP, saying he has a good chance of picking the party’s presidential ticket not that Abubakar has left the party.

According to him, it has become clear that Abubakar will likely pick the ADC presidential ticket, a situation that may leave Obi in the cold, to avoid this, the former LP presidential candidate may decide to try his luck in the PDP, noting that his chances in the PDP is stronger.

“Information available to me is that any moment from now, Obi would go back to the PDP and run as a presidential candidate under the PDP,” Sheriff said.

Obi had recently disclosed that it’s for him, the president or nothing after suggestions that he has accepted to be Abubakar’s running mate in the ADC as part of the opposition forces plan to out President Tinubu from power.

“Nobody has ever discussed with me whether to be A or B or C,” Obi said. “I am going to contest for the President of Nigeria, and I believe I’m qualified,” the presidential hopeful said.

Meanwhile, the former Borno helmsman has also disclosed that the coast in now clear for President Tinubu’s re-election except for two reasons; if he decides not to run or election is not held in the country.

Rivers Local Government Polls To Hold August 30

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Rivers State Electoral Commission - RISEC

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC, on Monday, July 28, 2025, the unveiled its time table for the conduct of election into Local Council positions in the State.

According to the Chairman of  newly constituted Commission, Cross Rivers State-born Michael Odey, the polls  will hold on August 30, 2025.

This is as it announced that all electioneering campaigns for the election will commence on August 16.

Similarly, all participating political parties are expected to begin and conclude the conduct of their Primaries between July 31, and August 3, 2025.

Odey, at an interactive session with party representatives and other stakeholders held at the Commission’s Secretariat in Port Harcourt,  explained that the exercise originally billed to hold on August 9,2025 was  rescheduled owing to the realities on the ground.

He informed that the August 9, date was fixed before the proclamation of Emergency Rule in the State, which resulted in the disruption of the earlier plans

The Source reports that sequel to the declaration of state of emergency in the state on March 18, 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, dissolved the former Electoral body constituted by the suspended Governor , Siminalayi Fubara .

Before then, the Supreme Court, had also declared null and void an earlier polls conducted by Governor Fubara last year.

The new Commission which members were nominated by the President, was only confirmed last month by the National Assembly , which has been  holding brief for the Rivers Lawmakers who were equally suspended alongside the Governor in the wake of the emergency declaration.

The RSIEC Chairman whose confirmation was marred by controversies owing to his state of origin – Cross River State, noted that the changes became imperative in the  light of the change in governance structure.

The Electoral Commission’s Boss, informed that the recruitment of adhoc staff that will assist in the smooth conduct of the exercise will be held on Saturday August 16 , 2025 .

The list of successful Candidates, he added will be on display on Wednesday August 20,2025 for public viewing .

The Source further reports that apprehensions and anxiety have been building up over doubts  about the Commission’s abilities in  maintaining at least semblance of impartiality during the exercise

Already, there are palpable fears in some quarters , particularly, the camp of those sympathic to Governor Fubara, that the exercise, seen as very crucial in defining the control of political structures in the State ahead of the 2027 General Elections, may be tilted in favour of Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister to enable him deliver in support of the President’s re-election bid.

Ondo: Abductors Demand N100 Million Ransom On Seven Kidnapped Farmers

By
Ayodele Oni
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Gunmen

By Ayodele Oni

Abductors of seven farmers in Ondo State have placed a ransom of N100 million on them.

The farmers were abducted by gunmen at their farm in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The Ondo State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the incident on Monday.

Adeleye, who disclosed that the farmers were kidnapped on Saturday, said Amotekun officers have been deployed to the forests in search of the victims.

Adeleye said: “I can confirm the incident. Our men have been in the forests and are still there.

“I was there on Sunday and we are hopeful that they will soon be rescued.”

The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, also confirmed the incident. Ayanlade added that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims.

Meanwhile, a source disclosed that the kidnappers made contact with some families of the victims and demanded N100 million for their release.

One of the sources who craved anonymity revealed that the victims were on the farm harvesting palm fruits when they were abducted by gunmen.

He said: “They went to the farm to harvest palm fruits when they were abducted on Saturday.

“We didn’t hear from them until yesterday evening (Sunday) when the kidnappers contacted one of the family members, demanding a ransom of N100 million for their release. We’re still negotiating with their abductors.”

Dollar Rain For Victorious Super Falcons, Officials, Get National Honour, House In Abuja

By
Ayodele Oni
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Tinubu hosts super falcons

By Ayodele Oni

In appreciation of their feat at the just concluded Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), President Bola Tinubu has honoured the triumphant Super Falcons of Nigeria with national awards and generous rewards.

During a special ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, President Tinubu conferred the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each of the 24 players of the Super Falcons team. In addition to the prestigious title, each player received a three-bedroom apartment and a cash reward of $100,000.

The President also extended the gesture to the technical crew, awarding each member of the team’s Technical Committee a cash prize of $50,000 in recognition of their role in the team’s historic comeback victory over host nation Morocco in Rabat.

President Tinubu praised the Falcons for their resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the nation, stating that their victory exemplified the spirit of Nigeria on the global stage.

“Your victory has brought pride and joy to millions of Nigerians. You have not only won a trophy but also inspired a nation with your courage, discipline, and tenacity,” President Tinubu said.

The 3-2 win over Morocco marked Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, extending their record as the most successful team in the competition’s history. The Super Falcons’ remarkable comeback from a 2-0 halftime deficit has been widely celebrated both at home and across the continent.

The awards, according to the President, are a token of appreciation for the team’s selfless service and the glory they have brought to Nigeria.

FG Seals Company Over  N1.43 Trillion Illegal Lithium Mining

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Nigeria Mining Marshals - NSCDC

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Mining Marshalls of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC have announced the sealing of the operations of an  outfit in Libata Community, Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State for allegedly engaging in unlawful mining activities.

The closure which was carried out by the enforcement team of the Mining Marshalls, was preceded by an order of a Federal High Court for the sealing of the premises of Three Crown Mines LTD for defrauding the Federal Government of a whopping sum of N 1.43 trillion.

The sum represents revenue accruing to the company from a two-year illegal operations.

The sealing of the company’s premises according to the Mining Marshalls, followed the failure of the Directors to honour an invitation to appear before an investigation committee in Abuja on July 21, 2025.

The mining company which is currently under investigation by relevant authorities has been accused of engaging in large scale mineral theft and regulatory breaches.

According to the NSCDC Mining Marshalls, the accused company in concert with some unnamed foreign collaborators, is, so far alleged to have extracted lithium with a street value of N1,431,762 ,340 ,450 ,over a period of two years.

Industry regulators are accusing the mining outfit of engaging in operations far in excess of its status as a small scale mining and exploration entity, thereby encroaching on cadastre units lawfully owned by another titleholder.

According to the Mining Marshalls, the actions of the company contravene Sections 46 (2) of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act ,and 48 of the Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011.

“The activities of the company not only deprived the Government of critical revenue, but also undermined the legal framework protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources.

The site was shut down following a coordinated inspection by security personnel ,state mine officers ,and company representatives.

Despite a former summons, the Directors of Three Crown Mines failed to appear before investigators in Abuja on July 21, citing inconvenience, through a letter from their counsel Y C Maikyau SAN”, officials stated .

The NSCDC Mining Marshalls, however, described the position of the company as totally unacceptable and an attempt to undermine Government’s efforts at investigating its activities.

According to John Onoga, an Assistant Commandant of the NSCDC, and one of the leaders of the mining Marshalls, the team will not tolerate any attempts by mining outfits to shortchange the country.

“We will not negotiate the mineral fortune of Nigeria across any roundtable. Mineral theft is not a compoundable offence”, Onoja  warned.

The NSCDC Asst Commandant further stated that the enforcement measures are in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola  Tinubu as well as the directives from the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake.

Lithium, a key component in global energy transition technologies, is now central to Nigeria’s economic strategy and its unchecked exploitation, according to officials, threaten both revenue and national sovereignty. Nigerian cuisine recipes.

EFCC Puts LG Officials In Ondo Under Watch

By
Ayodele Oni
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EFCC Operatives

By Ayodele Oni

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) has warned top management and political office holders at Local Council levels in Ondo state against running foul of ant graft laws.

The Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Office of the Commission, Effa Okim, spoke in Akure, on Monday, at the opening ceremony of a four-day sensitization training for political office holders and top management staff of local governments in the state.

Okim cautioned that failure to act in line with the principles and lessons shared during the workshop would attract appropriate consequences from the commission.

He noted that the workshop would address critical issues such as abuse of office and other unethical practices within the local government system.

Okim also assured that the collaboration between the EFCC and the Ondo State Government would be sustained in the interest of good governance.

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that his administration is committed to strengthening grassroots governance through accountability, capacity building, and a culture of transparency.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the workshop was not just a formal gathering, but a deliberate intervention by his administration to reposition the local government system for quality service delivery.

He described the local government as the closest tier of government to the people, and one whose effectiveness greatly determines the development of any democratic society.

“In recent years, our local governments have been confronted with myriad challenges ranging from poor service delivery to weak accountability frameworks.

This workshop is a conscious effort to reverse the trend and equip our leaders with the tools and mindset required to serve with competence and integrity.”

The Governor charged political office holders to see public service as a sacred duty, reminding them that they were elected or appointed to serve the people.

He also called on top local government officials to demonstrate professionalism, adhere to due process, and view themselves as essential partners in governance rather than mere bureaucrats.

He reiterated his administration’s resolve to institutionalize accountability and fiscal discipline across all tiers of government, saying “We shall continue to support initiatives that promote transparency, fiscal discipline, and effective monitoring and evaluation.”

The Governor explained that the training is designed to enhance participants’ grasp of core governance values, including transparency, accountability, the rule of law, and citizen engagement.

He expressed gratitude to the EFCC and other partner institutions, including the ICPC and the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission (OSPFACC), for supporting the workshop, urging participants to take the lessons from the sessions seriously and apply them in their respective local governments.

“You are stewards of public trust. The people look up to you for leadership and results. You must not disappoint them,” he added.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, described the workshop as a strategic move to rebuild the integrity of the local government system.

He said the training is part of broader efforts to address loopholes in public financial management and to enhance service delivery at the grassroots.

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