2027: INEC boss charges staff on integrity, warns against compromise

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has charged staff of the commission to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, warning that the electoral body cannot afford to disappoint Nigerians in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an official working visit and interactive session with management and staff at the INEC headquarters in Minna, Niger State, on Friday, Amupitan urged officials to resist all forms of compromise, stressing that both Nigerians and the international community were closely monitoring preparations for the country’s next general elections.

“The whole world, not just Nigerians, is looking up to INEC,” the chairman said. “I just returned from an African Union meeting in Egypt involving Electoral Management Bodies across Africa, and everyone expressed the desire to come and observe Nigeria’s elections. We must conduct the elections in a highly professional manner.”

He reminded staff that they serve as ambassadors of the commission and announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on **January 16, 2027**, while the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for **February 6, 2027**.

Amupitan assured staff that the commission was strengthening logistics, transportation and infrastructure across its offices nationwide to avoid the operational shortcomings experienced in previous elections.

“We do not want to repeat the mistakes of the past. My goal is to ensure that we continue to improve on our performance,” he said.

The INEC chairman reiterated his commitment to restoring public confidence in the commission through the conduct of transparent, free, fair and credible elections, noting that the success of the electoral process would largely depend on the dedication and integrity of staff at the grassroots.

He announced that the commission would introduce a reward system to recognise outstanding performance while imposing strict sanctions on officials found guilty of misconduct.

“There should be no compromise whatsoever. We have decided to introduce rewards for hard work, but if there is any misconduct, there will be serious consequences. Work hard, work selflessly, shun corruption, and let us give the Nigerian people what they truly desire,” he said.

On staff welfare, Amupitan disclosed that INEC had commenced a comprehensive review of employees’ welfare packages across the country to improve morale and productivity.

According to him, staff welfare was one of the critical issues he identified after assuming office nine months ago.

“When I assumed office, I discovered that the welfare package for INEC staff was among the lowest in the country. To boost your morale, the commission decided to take this issue head-on. When the results begin to manifest, you will appreciate our commitment,” he assured.

The INEC chairman also inspected the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise at a registration centre located within the state headquarters as part of his working visit.

Atiku to Obasanjo: The grave is not a witness box

Former Vice President of Nigeria and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has faulted former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s latest allegations against him, describing them as a desperate attempt to rewrite history and confer political advantage on his preferred candidate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said the former President’s decision to accuse him of bribing the late Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba to impeach him was not only reckless but fundamentally unfair to a man who is no longer alive to defend his name.

“As Africans, we understand the solemn duty of speaking truthfully about the dead. It is therefore deeply troubling that former President Obasanjo has chosen this moment to allege that I gave the late Rt. Hon. Ghali Umar Na’Abba a bribe to impeach him.

“If this allegation were true, why did he never make it while Rt. Hon. Na’Abba was alive? Why wait until the only man who could confirm or refute the claim has departed this world? By invoking a deceased man as the principal witness to such a grave allegation, former President Obasanjo has denied Nigerians the opportunity of hearing the other side of the story.

“The late Rt. Hon. Ghali Na’Abba cannot now defend his own integrity or respond to the allegation that he accepted a bribe. It is unfair to his memory and contrary to our cultural values to conscript the dead into contemporary political battles when they no longer have a voice.”

Atiku noted that the allegations themselves are not supported by any judicial finding or official determination.

“If there was indeed evidence of any criminal conduct as alleged, Nigerians are entitled to ask why no action was taken at the time by a government that wielded the full powers of the Nigerian state.”

The former Vice President said it is difficult to ignore the political timing of the recycled allegations.

“Coming at a time when the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election is taking shape, the obvious objective is to besmirch my person and reputation and confer an undeserved political advantage on the former President’s kinsman. Nigerians, however, know better. They are too discerning to be distracted by stale allegations resurrected for political convenience.”

Atiku maintained that the roots of the former President’s hostility towards him are well known.

“My offence was that I stood firmly against the unconstitutional third-term agenda. As a democrat, I chose the path of constitutionalism and the rule of law. Rather than surrender democratic principles on the altar of personal ambition, I defended the Constitution and successfully asserted my rights through the courts in a series of landmark legal victories against a sitting President. Those battles are now part of Nigeria’s democratic history. It is evident that the bitterness arising from that defining period has failed to leave former President Obasanjo.”

He said he would not be distracted into exchanging words over historical political disputes while Nigeria grapples with unprecedented economic hardship, rising insecurity, mass unemployment, hunger and disturbing questions surrounding the management of public resources.

“The task before leaders today is not to rewrite history but to rescue the future. Nigerians are more interested in knowing why food prices continue to soar, why public debt continues to rise despite increased revenues, and why scandal after scandal continues to trail the current administration than in revisiting political disagreements from over two decades ago.”

Atiku added that while former President Obasanjo is entitled to support any candidate of his choice, he should do so openly.

“If former President Obasanjo has chosen to take a political position ahead of 2027, he should simply declare it and allow Nigerians to judge it on its merits, rather than attempting to influence public opinion through allegations that can no longer be tested because the principal witness is no longer alive.

“Our focus remains unwavering: offering credible alternatives, defending democracy, demanding accountability and working with all patriotic Nigerians to restore competent, transparent and people-centred leadership to our country. Nigerians deserve solutions to today’s problems, not recycled political tales from yesterday.”

Enugu Air aircraft skids off runway at Benin airport

An Enugu Air aircraft on Thursday veered off the runway after landing at the Benin Airport on Thursday, and incident described in aviation terms as a runway excursion, however, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without injuries.

Penpushing reports that the management of the airline in a statement posted on its official X handle, explained that the aircraft experienced the runway excursion after landing and that the relevant aviation authorities had been notified.

The management of Enugu State-owned carrier’s Embraer regional jets added that the incident could result in temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules, adding that the aircraft has been secured

“Enugu Air wishes to inform the public that one of our aircraft operating into Benin experienced a runway excursion after landing today. We confirm that all passengers and crew have safely disembarked and there were no injuries or casualties.

“The aircraft has been secured, and the relevant aviation authorities have been notified in line with established procedures. An assessment of the aircraft and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence is currently underway,” the airline said.

“As a result, there may be temporary adjustments to some flight schedules. Passengers affected by any changes will be contacted directly and provided with the necessary assistance’, the statement read.

“The safety of our passengers, crew, and operations remains our highest priority. We appreciate your understanding and will continue to provide updates through our official communication channels’, it added.

Penpushing further reports that the aircraft involved is an Embraer regional jet recently introduced into Enugu Air’s fleet for commercial operations, while as at the time of filing this report the cause of the runway excursion was yet unknown while aviation authorities are expected to investigate the incident.

Trump hails Tinubu’s leadership in war against terror

United States President Donald Trump has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his decisive leadership in confronting terrorism and addressing insecurity in Nigeria, according to a statement issued by the Presidency on Wednesday.

In a letter dated July 6, 2026, Trump commended Tinubu’s efforts to tackle security challenges, particularly attacks affecting Christian communities, while reaffirming Washington’s commitment to strengthening bilateral security cooperation.

“Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Your kind words mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate your decisive leadership on behalf of the Nigerian people,” Trump wrote.

“I applaud your resolve to tackle the issues plaguing your nation, especially the violence affecting Christian communities, and it is a true honor to stand with you in the fight against terrorists and to make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger and more prosperous.”

The letter was made public on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

Trump described the US-Nigeria relationship as increasingly important amid growing security challenges across West Africa, saying both countries share a common objective of combating terrorism.

According to the US president, the two nations’ 2026 Defence Cooperation Roadmap has established a framework for expanded military collaboration.

He also said the United States had deployed Special Operations Forces to train and support the Armed Forces of Nigeria with intelligence, equipment and operational skills aimed at strengthening the country’s counterterrorism efforts.

“I am proud to have deployed the United States Special Operations Forces—among the most elite military units anywhere in the world—to equip the brave men and women in the Armed Forces of Nigeria with the skills, tools and intelligence they need to protect your homeland and ensure the safety and security of citizens,” Trump stated.

The Presidency said security cooperation between Abuja and Washington has intensified in recent months. It recalled that both leaders agreed in November last year to establish a Joint Working Group, co-chaired by the National Security Advisers of both countries, to coordinate training, intelligence sharing and joint operations against terrorist groups.

According to the statement, one of the major outcomes of the collaboration was a coordinated operation on May 16 targeting ISIS hideouts in the Lake Chad region, which reportedly resulted in the killing of the group’s leader, Abubakar Al-Minoki, and several of his lieutenants.

The Presidency also noted that the US Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Frank Garcia, visited Abuja last week, where he met with senior Nigerian officials and pledged to deepen cooperation between both countries in security and other strategic areas.

Trump concluded his letter by expressing optimism about continued engagement with President Tinubu throughout his presidency, saying he looked forward to further discussions on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing shared security objectives. Authority.

Solomon Dalung’s assertion about Peter Obi in Plateau State is false and unfounded

Peter Obi’s Media Office has refuted and reject a statement made by former Minister of Sports Development and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Solomon Dalung that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has not visited Plateau State since the end of the 2023 general elections.

In a statement on Wednesday, the office said that what Dalung implied is that Obi’s support from the state’s people in 2023 was followed by his absence until the next election cycle.

“However, the Media Office asserts that Dalung’s claim is factually wrong. They state that Obi has made several visits to Plateau State since 2023 and has spent nights there on two occasions.

“These two occasions have attracted significant attention from the media and political circles.

“While some see these visits as a sign of particular affection for the state, Obi’s ongoing presence, especially in places like Bokkos, Mangu, Bassa, and Barkin Ladi, is reportedly driven by important political, humanitarian, and strategic reasons.

“In response to ongoing communal violence and security issues, Obi has personally visited affected communities to offer condolences to victims and displaced persons,” the Office said

The statement went further to recall that Obi visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Mangu and Bokkos multiple times, providing financial support, clean water programmes, and relief supplies directly to affected families.

“Notably, in a show of solidarity, Obi celebrated his 62nd birthday in July 2023 by spending time with displaced communities in Mangu Local Government Area, foregoing formal celebrations.

“The Media Office also highlights Obi’s active engagement with traditional rulers, including the Gbong Gwom Jos, and state officials, emphasising his political influence in the North Central region.

“Obi’s consistent presence in Plateau goes beyond routine political activities; it combines humanitarian efforts, direct interaction with his political support base, and a platform to draw attention to security challenges.

“As a result, the Media Office considers Dalung’s claim to be clearly false and without foundation, advising that it be ignored.”

Peter Obi at 65: Extolling a visionary’s enduring influence

By Ike Abonyi

Today marks not merely the passage of another year, but a commemoration of the profound and lasting impact of a leader whose political philosophy and personal conduct have fundamentally reshaped the definition of leadership in contemporary Nigeria. As His Excellency, **Peter Onwubuasi Gregory Obi*, reaches his 65th birthday having been born on July 19, 1961, I pay tribute to a friend, an individual of exceptional intellect, strong character, and unwavering dedication to public service.

*The Nature of a Change Agent*

Peter Obi’s political trajectory has consistently been characterised by a drive to challenge and improve upon the existing order, rather than merely adhere to it. From his impactful governorship of Anambra State to his significant role as a catalyst for national reawakening, he has repeatedly demonstrated that governance can and must be conducted with accountability, fiscal prudence, and a genuine focus on the populace. He elevated frugality to a governing principle, underscoring the belief that a nation’s resources rightfully belong to its citizens, not its elite.

*Inspiring a New Generation*

Beyond policy initiatives and economic data, Peter Obi’s most significant legacy may be the inspiration he has instilled in countless young Nigerians. At 65, his vitality remains undimmed, his foresight sharp, and his message consistent: the possibility of a revitalised Nigeria. He has successfully steered the national discourse from one of entitlement to one of merit, from a focus on consumption to one on production, and from a state of despondency to one of constructive hope.

He has redefined the benchmarks for leadership in Nigeria, proving that integrity is not a political liability, but rather the ultimate source of strength.

*A Milestone of Composure and Fortitude*

Reaching sixty-five years signifies a period of accumulated wisdom, thoughtful reflection, and renewed commitment. Amidst a political arena often dominated by clamour, Peter Obi stands as a stable, composed, and meticulously reasoned voice. His leadership is demonstrated through his actions; his approach is marked by humility, and he consistently encourages us all to hold both our leaders and ourselves to higher standards.

I extend our warmest 65th birthday wishes to this great friend, a distinguished statesman, a forward-thinking economic advocate, and a leader truly devoted to the people. May the coming years be filled with continued strength, robust health, and the realisation of a vision for a just and prosperous nation.

Abonyi is Editor @Large

Obi Media to EFCC: Face strategic priorities and leave Randy Peter and Mama Pee alone

The Leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been urged to stop distracting themselves from the task of corruption cases littered all over Nigeria by halting harassment of those who support the Obidient Movement.

Specifically, the Commission was told to stop harassing Randy Peter and Mama Pee.

This was contained in a statement released by the Peter Obi Media on Thursday.

Below is the fuu text of the statement:

“The Peter Obi Media Reach, POMR, having closely monitored the needless harassment of two social media activists, Randy Peter and Mama Pee, wishes to appeal to the Leadership of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to stop distracting themselves from the task of corruption cases littered all over the place.

As Nigerians, we watch the trajectory of our country with a mixture of hope and anxiety. At the heart of our collective struggle for a prosperous nation is the fight against systemic corruption—a cancer that continues to devalue our currency, cripple public infrastructure, and limit the potential of millions. In this struggle, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remains a crucial pillar.

It is precisely because the EFCC’s success is so vital to Nigeria’s survival that we must raise a constructive concern regarding the commission’s recent allocation of time, energy, and resources to needless issues.

Over the past years, we have seen an increasing trend where social media commentators, political activists, and online critics are repeatedly summoned, interrogated, or detained over relatively minor or highly debatable infractions. While the rule of law must apply to everyone, we must ask ourselves: Is this the most impactful use of Nigeria’s premier anti-graft agency?

When the EFCC prioritises policing digital discourse and tracking down online activists, it inadvertently creates several setbacks for its own mission:

Every hour spent investigating a viral video or interrogating an outspoken critic is an hour taken away from tracing complex, multi-billion naira networks of institutional graft, oil theft, and public fund diversion.

The EFCC’s greatest asset is the goodwill of the Nigerian public. When citizens perceive the agency as a tool for stifling political dissent or managing public relations, that vital trust is eroded. A cynical public is less likely to whistle-blow or support anti-graft initiatives.

Chasing low-hanging fruit on social media might dominate the daily news cycle, but it does little to repair our broken refineries, secure our borders, or restore international investor confidence.

Nigeria is currently navigating severe economic headwinds. We are grappling with the fallout of massive, institutionalised financial leakages that directly impact inflation, poverty, and national security. This is where the EFCC’s true battlefield lies.

We therefore respectfully call on the leadership of the EFCC to direct the bulk of forensic, legal, and investigative assets toward prosecuting high-profile financial crimes, public sector embezzlement, and systemic economic sabotage. And stop allowing it to be a default arbiter for political or social score settlements. A corruption-free Nigeria is Possible.

Peter Obi releases Part 2 of Roadmap to a New Nigeria with emphasis on Education, Healthcare

The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi has insisted that Education and healthcare remain the bedrock upon which every prosperous nation is built.

Releasing his Part 2 of the Roadmap to a New Nigeria on Thursday, Obi wrote on his handle that

“Education and Healthcare remain the Foundation of a Renewed Nigeria

“Recall that on July 1st, in Part 1 of “My Vision for a Productive and Prosperous Nigeria,” I outlined the broad framework of my proposed roadmap for national renewal. In it, I emphasised that the transformation of Nigeria must begin with rebuilding our human capital through quality education and healthcare, supported by reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), character and civic education, and strategic investments that will move our nation from a consumption-driven economy to a production-driven one. I promised to follow up with other parts in the coming weeks and months.

“Today, July 16th, in the middle of July, I wish to expand on these two critical pillars – education and healthcare – because they are the bedrock upon which every prosperous nation is built. They are the cornerstones of the foundation that will ensure that a son of nobody can become somebody and remove many from the ranks of the disaffected who often become tools in the insecurity challenges confronting us.

“Evidence from around the world shows that quality education and accessible healthcare are among the clearest distinctions between thriving nations and lagging ones. Princeton University Nobel Prize-winning economist Angus Deaton highlights this reality in his book, The Great Escape: Health, Wealth, and the Origins of Inequality.

“Nothing, therefore, could be further from the truth than the claim by some young people that “education is a scam.” Education, when combined with good health, provides the ladder for individual upward mobility and drives economic growth for the nation.

“We must become more intentional about aligning education with our national priorities, as Singapore did, and challenge our country to value education in the same way Deng Xiaoping repeatedly urged China to do from 1978 onwards, with the remarkable transformation we see today.

“We will work through commissions that strengthen collaboration among the tiers of government, ensuring that primary education is domiciled at the community and local government levels, with strong parental involvement and curricula that are sensitive to local economic factor endowments and the value chains derived from them.

State governments will be supported to expand high-quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as general secondary education, through targeted grants and incentives.

“We are also developing schemes that will enable universities to focus more deliberately on specialised areas of teaching and research, making them globally competitive while producing a workforce equipped for the demands of the future,” he stated.

Physiotherapist Mary Habila who died in Minister Umahi’s house for burial Friday

Family Announces Burial Plans for Physiotherapist Mary Habila as Police Intensify Probe into Death at Minister Umahi’s Residence

The family of 26-year-old physiotherapist, Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has announced the funeral arrangements for the late healthcare professional whose death at the residence of Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Ebonyi State has continued to generate widespread public attention and calls for a thorough investigation.

The announcement comes as police authorities intensify investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death, while insisting that a comprehensive autopsy will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.

Mary Habila reportedly died under controversial circumstances at the minister’s official residence in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The incident has sparked nationwide debate, with many Nigerians demanding transparency and accountability over the events leading to her death.

According to a funeral programme released by her family, Habila was born on September 18, 2000, and passed away on June 27, 2026, at the age of 26.

The family disclosed that her funeral service will take place on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Nok, Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

Following the service, she will be laid to rest in her hometown in the presence of family members, friends, colleagues, church members and sympathisers who are expected to gather to pay their final respects to the young physiotherapist.

Her death has left relatives, friends and members of the medical community in shock, with many describing her as a promising healthcare professional whose life was cut short under troubling circumstances.

Public concern over the incident intensified after reports emerged that Habila’s body was allegedly found unclothed when it was removed from the minister’s residence, a development that has fueled widespread speculation and heightened demands for an independent and transparent investigation.

Although authorities have yet to establish the exact circumstances surrounding her death, the unusual details surrounding the incident have continued to attract significant public interest across the country.

Minister David Umahi has publicly acknowledged that Habila died at his residence but has denied any wrongdoing.

The minister explained that the deceased was serving as a physiotherapist and had been seconded from the David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences to the Federal Ministry of Works.

Umahi has repeatedly maintained that he has nothing to hide and has expressed support for a full investigation into the incident.

He said he personally requested that a comprehensive autopsy be carried out to determine the precise cause of death, insisting that scientific evidence rather than speculation should guide public conclusions.

According to the minister, all relevant authorities should be allowed to complete their investigations without interference or premature judgments.

Police authorities have also confirmed that an autopsy forms a critical component of the ongoing investigation.

Investigators say forensic examinations, medical reports and witness statements will help determine both the cause of death and the sequence of events leading to the tragic incident.

Security sources familiar with the investigation disclosed that detectives are reconstructing the timeline of activities at the minister’s residence before and after Habila was found unresponsive.

According to the sources, investigators are attempting to establish who was present at the residence at the time of the incident, what immediate actions were taken after she was discovered, and when emergency medical assistance was requested.

Police are also reportedly examining allegations that the minister departed his country home shortly after the incident while aides arranged for an ambulance to transport the deceased.

Investigators are expected to verify the accuracy of these claims as part of their efforts to establish a complete chronology of events.

A senior source familiar with the investigation said detectives are carefully piecing together all available evidence.

“Our investigators are seeking to establish the complete timeline of events, including everyone who was present, the actions taken immediately after Habila was found, and the exact time emergency medical services were contacted,” the source reportedly said.

The investigation is expected to include forensic analysis, interviews with witnesses, examination of electronic records where necessary and review of medical evidence.

Officials say every relevant piece of information will be examined before conclusions are reached.

The minister has also responded strongly to allegations circulating on social media regarding the incident.

Umahi has denied involvement in any wrongdoing and warned that he would institute legal proceedings against individuals or organisations found to be publishing false or defamatory information concerning the case.

He maintained that while public interest in the matter is understandable, the spread of unverified claims could undermine ongoing investigations.

However, some questions raised in public discussions regarding the events preceding Habila’s death have yet to receive official clarification, contributing to sustained public curiosity about the case.

Civil society groups, professional associations and members of the public have continued to call for a transparent, impartial and independent investigation capable of restoring public confidence.

Many Nigerians have argued that the sensitive nature of the case requires investigators to ensure that every aspect of the incident is thoroughly examined and that the findings are made public upon completion.

Legal analysts have also stressed the importance of allowing investigators to complete their work without political interference or undue public pressure, noting that the outcome of the autopsy will likely play a central role in determining the next steps in the investigation.

As preparations continue for Mary Habila’s burial, her family has requested prayers and support during what they describe as one of the most painful periods in their lives.

Friends and colleagues have continued to pay tribute to the late physiotherapist, remembering her as a dedicated healthcare professional committed to serving others.

Her death has also renewed conversations about workplace safety, accountability and the need for transparent investigations whenever unexplained deaths occur under sensitive circumstances.

With the funeral scheduled for July 17, attention remains focused on the ongoing police investigation and the anticipated autopsy findings, which many believe will provide critical answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the young physiotherapist’s tragic death.

For now, investigators continue to gather documentary evidence, forensic materials and witness testimonies as they work to establish the facts surrounding one of the country’s most closely watched investigations in recent weeks. Uzorngoladi.

Gunmen attack sec school, abduct Principal, NECO Supervisor, 4 students

Gunmen on Tuesday abducted principal, a National Examinations Council (NECO) supervisor, and four students of Government Science Secondary School, Opada-Olowa, in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State,

during NECO examinations.

It was gathered that the incident occurred Tuesday afternoon while students were in the middle of writing their ongoing NECO examinations.

It was also gathered that abducted school officials have been identified as the Principal, Mr. Nyada Daniel, and the NECO supervisor, Mr. Solomon Audu. The names of the four abducted students have not yet been released by school authorities.

Local sources said the heavily armed attackers stormed the school premises, shooting sporadically to scare away teachers and students before seizing their targets and fled the scene with the victims before security operatives could arrive.

The whereabouts of the victims remain unknown and no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.

Sunrisereporters.