A timely memo for Prof Amupitan

 

 

By Ike Abonyi

Dear Honourable Chairman,

Prof. Joash Amupitan, I am compelled to address you through this memo, emphasising the critical responsibility you hold as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). At a start, I need you to reflect on the following four Marble words: “If a referee is also a player for the opposing team, the match is over before it begins” (Political Adage); “It’s not the voting that’s democracy; it’s the counting” (Tom Stoppard); “An umpire who favors one side doesn’t just ruin the game; they destroy the sport itself” (Sports Metaphor); and “When a shepherd is a friend to the wolf, the sheep are never safe” (Folk Proverb).
Guided by the above quotes plus your credentials as a seasoned legal professional and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), it’s safe to conclude that you possess a deep understanding of the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with your role. I presume that, as a professor, you are also very aware of the meaning of “independence” and the serious ramifications of straying from it in your new role. It is from this perspective that I am writing this memo to you as a concerned citizen and voter in Nigeria. Since your appointment in October 2025, there has been a sense of cautious optimism surrounding our democracy, yet the approaching 2027 general elections demand your unwavering commitment to a “free and fair” electoral process more than ever.
However, your recent decisions as Chairman have cast a shadow on this optimism. The handling of political party registrations under your watch has raised significant concerns about your neutrality. Furthermore, your apparent bias in favour of the ruling party, which threatens to marginalise the opposition in a diverse nation of over 200 million people, is unacceptable.
The hide-and-seek behaviour of INEC under your watch in addressing the Supreme Court’s April 2025 ruling on the Labour Party leadership crisis until January 7, 2026, after the departure of Peter Obi, reflects poorly on your leadership. Your complicity in the disruptive actions of the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike regarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and your inappropriate interference in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership demonstrate a lack of integrity that is at odds with the independence expected from INEC.
Your dual role as both referee and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the ADC matter is a clear violation of the neutrality that is required of your position. The public is watching, and we will not accept any lacklustre performance simply because of your previous accolades.
Let me be clear: the will of the Nigerian people is not just a slogan; it is the heartbeat of our democracy. Those who play games with this principle jeopardise the future of our nation. Past chairpersons may have evaded accountability, but you should understand that history does not guarantee immunity continuously for wrongs deliberately orchestrated. The former chairman, Yakubu Mahmud, has faced consequences that transcend mere career assessments, and I urge you to learn from that.
In light of the recently enacted Electoral Act 2026, which presents both opportunities and challenges, your leadership must rise to the occasion. The pillars of electoral integrity are at stake, and you must address them with transparency and resolve. Failure to do so will not only undermine the Commission but will also betray the trust placed in you by the Nigerian people. The time for action is now, and the consequences of inaction will be dire.
In 2023, technical glitches became synonymous with election rigging, highlighting the alarming lack of technological transparency that plagued real-time results under Prof. Mahmoud’s electoral commission. While technology has advanced elections in many places, our experience was unfortunately different. The credibility of our elections is fundamentally tied to the flawless execution of technology. It is imperative that you, as the new chairperson, ensure that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) are not merely functional, but entirely robust. The Nigerian people deserve a system where results from polling units are transmitted in real-time, devoid of technical “glitches” that undermine public trust.
Your predecessor, Prof. Mahmoud in 2023 presented rules and guidelines for the election at Chatham House in London but failed to uphold them on election day. With the Presidential and National Assembly elections now rescheduled for January 16, 2027, and party primaries starting on April 23, 2026, there can be no tolerance for logistical delays. You must demonstrate unwavering administrative excellence by ensuring that personnel, materials, and security are deployed effectively and punctually across all 36 states and the FCT.
Neutrality and institutional independence are fundamental principles in electoral jurisprudence. The name of your organisation contains “Independent,” and this must reflect the spirit of those who established the commission. Your neutrality must be unmistakable. A free and fair election is unattainable if the umpire is perceived as partisan. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a legal scholar, your legacy rests on your ability to safeguard the Commission from political interference. It is your duty to inspire every Resident Electoral Commissioner and ad-hoc staff to act with absolute neutrality, irrespective of the political landscape or the candidates’ statuses.
Voter education and inclusiveness are non-negotiable. Your now-suspended voter revalidation project was tainted by public suspicion of a hidden agenda favouring the ruling party. Millions of Nigerians, especially youth and rural inhabitants, look to INEC for clear and actionable guidance. The Commission must amplify its voter education initiatives, ensuring that every eligible Nigerian comprehends the new provisions of the 2026 Act and feels empowered to exercise their rights free from intimidation or violence.
Recall that in my advisory on this column when you were appointed last year, I alerted you that “out of the 13 National Electoral bosses that served this country from independence, starting with Chief Eyo Esua, Prof Mahmoud was leaving the stage indisputably as the worst of all”. You are coming in as the 14th INEC Chairman with a blank sheet to write your own story. I also recommended to you then to take your time to study why some failed and others succeeded as such knowledge will help you a lot.
Honourable Chairman, you may wish to reflect on the actions of your predecessors, particularly Prof. Yakubu Mahmud, whose interference shattered electoral integrity in Nigeria. It may seem to you that they escaped accountability, but that is a grave misconception. The consequences of undermining the people’s will are profound and enduring. Just as Pontius Pilate’s misguided judgment led to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, over two thousand years nobody likes to associate with his name just as allowing leaders like Prof. Mahmud to act with impunity tarnishes reputations for generations.

The “will of the people” is not just rhetoric; it is the essence of our nation. As you lead INEC through this critical period, be acutely aware that history is watching your every move. We are not asking for miracles; we demand a transparent process, an accurate count, and results that genuinely reflect the choices of the Nigerian electorate.

Nigeria’s democracy cannot merely survive; it must thrive. Your unwavering commitment to the highest standards of integrity is essential for safeguarding our democracy and restoring Nigeria’s standing. It will enhance your reputation, ensuring that your children, colleagues, and community look at you with pride, saying, “We honour our father, our colleague, our son.” History celebrates those who uphold goodness and justice while never forgetting those who fall into the shadows of wrongdoing.

You are faced with significant challenges: the choice between betraying a friend, a brother, an appointee who entrusted you with this role, or the greater betrayal of your country. Have the courage to distance yourself from anyone who stands against free and credible elections, regardless of your personal ties.

Be aware that the path you choose carries equal consequences, akin to heaven and hell, though the outcomes are starkly different. Keep this message in mind as you navigate your responsibilities leading up to the very crucial 2027 poll. May you be guided in your decisions. God help us.

“Thank you for fighting for us,” girl child to Obi at protest ground

 

 

It a pleasant shock on Wednesday as a seven-year-old girl approached Peter Obi at the anti-INEC protest ground, offering a heartwarming moment amid the serious atmosphere.

The protest was meant to express frustration with how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were obstructing democracy, and it was definitely a powerful show of unity.

The tension in Abuja was palpable, but suddenly, the noise around the political figures faded for a moment. Excitement filled the air as prominent leaders like Rabiu Kwankwaso, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, Rafiu Aregbesola, Aminu Tambuwal, and of course, Peter Obi arrived with their supporters.

As always, Peter Obi had a unique touch that brought a human element to the charged event. While he was weaving through the crowd of signs and hopeful faces, a small girl, about seven years old, slipped away from her parents. She didn’t have a banner or shout slogans—her only goal was to meet and connect with the future President of Nigeria.

With the pure enthusiasm that only kids have, she darted past security and hugged Obi tightly, pressing her face against his shirt. This unexpected moment surprised the aides, but Obi calmly motioned for them to give the little girl space. He quickly shifted from his focused political demeanour to the gentle warmth of a caring figure, bending down to her level on the street of Maitama, Abuja.

“What’s your name, my daughter?” he asked, his voice soft through the surrounding noise.

The girl, glowing with excitement, whispered her name and said she had seen him on the news. When Obi asked what she wanted to say, her heartfelt reply was, “Thank you. For fighting for us.” She mentioned she was currently on holiday from school and hoped for a positive change. This interaction momentarily captivated everyone around, drawing attention to the sweet exchange.

It was striking to see how deeply current events affected even young children. Obi held her tiny hands and took a full minute just to chat with her, momentarily putting aside the rush of cameras and his packed schedule. He encouraged her to stay in school, listen to her parents, and assured her that today’s struggle to ensure kids like her wouldn’t have to protest in the future.

As the girl was led back to her emotional parents, Obi watched her for a moment longer, his expression reflecting a mix of pride and concern.

In a day filled with divisions and complex political discussions, that brief hug served as a beautiful reminder of the “human angle” that’s often overlooked: behind every political movement are children wishing for a bright and fearless future.

The appearance of that little girl in such a lively setting felt like a meaningful sign from above—an encouraging message for a man who has dedicated so much of his own resources to help those in need.

His political mission is deeply rooted in lifting people out of poverty because everyone deserves a chance at a better life in a country blessed with abundant resources. A new Nigeria that is possible will make a protest unnecessary for the generation of this girl child.

‘Let democracy breathe’: opposition leaders confront INEC in high-stakes protest

 

 

Nigeria’s political landscape witnessed fresh tensions on Wednesday as a coalition of prominent opposition figures converged on the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, staging a protest under the banner of “Occupy INEC”. The demonstration, led by Atiku Abubakar, brought together a cross-party alliance including Peter Obi, David Mark, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Dino Melaye, in what observers describe as an intensifying push by opposition forces to reshape the political terrain ahead of the 2027 elections.

The protest, organised by leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), was aimed at challenging what participants described as the growing “partisanship” of the Independent National Electoral Commission. Addressing supporters, Atiku said the protest was intended to defend democratic principles and prevent what he warned could evolve into an erosion of political pluralism.

 

Chants of “Ojoro” echoed through the protest grounds as demonstrators displayed placards carrying messages such as “Tinubu, why are you afraid?”, “Judges must give justice”, and “Let democracy breathe”, underscoring rising political distrust among segments of the opposition. The protest comes amid controversy surrounding INEC’s decision to de-recognise the ADC leadership following a Court of Appeal judgment, a development that has triggered legal and political disputes over party legitimacy and institutional neutrality.

 

The convergence of several influential political figures across party lines signals the emergence of a possible strategic coalition seeking to consolidate opposition strength ahead of future electoral contests, as debates over electoral credibility and institutional independence continue to shape Nigeria’s democratic discourse.

 

The protest highlights the deepening trust deficit between opposition parties and Nigeria’s electoral institutions, raising concerns that the political climate ahead of the 2027 elections may become increasingly polarised and litigation-driven. While public demonstrations remain a legitimate democratic tool, repeated allegations of institutional bias risk eroding confidence in the electoral process and could further weaken already fragile political stability.

 

The convergence of influential political figures across ideological lines suggests early coalition building aimed at countering incumbency advantage, but it also reflects a broader structural problem in Nigeria’s democracy; persistent doubts about neutrality of institutions, which continue to overshadow policy debates on economic recovery, inflation, energy costs, and poverty. Unless credibility gaps in electoral governance are addressed transparently, political uncertainty may further discourage long-term investment and deepen governance challenges at a time when economic reforms already face public resistance. NEWSSCROLL.

Nigeria needs real commander-in-chief, not chief mourner,’ ADC tells Tinubu

 

 

The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that Nigeria needs a real Commander-in-Chief, not a Chief Mourner.

Stating that President Tinubu’s post-attack statements have failed to stop killings in the country, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said in a post on his X handle that the President’s repeated statements of assurance has turned into a declaration of helplessness and surrender.

 

He said since May 2023, President Tinubu had turned “never again” into a template response to insecurity and the killing of Nigerians, documenting six different incidents where the President had made almost similar statements without corresponding positive results on the ground.

 

The post @BolajiADC read in part, “Every massacre under his watch. Every abduction under his failed leadership. Same script. Same lines. Same outcome.

 

Dec 26, 2023 — Plateau, ‘Envoys of death will not escape. We will resolve this.’

 

“Apr 5, 2025 — Plateau/Kwara ‘Enough is enough.’

 

“Jun 16, 2025 — Benue ‘Enough is now enough. This must not continue.’

 

“Nov 20, 2025 — Kebbi ‘This should not happen again.’

 

“Mar 31, 2026 — Plateau/Kaduna ‘Enough is enough. Smash criminals in real-time.’

 

“Apr 1–2, 2026 — Plateau ‘This will not repeat itself.’

 

“Six different tragedies. Six Presidential promises. Six Presidential failures. Zero Presidential results.

 

“And then Easter came. “Apr 5–6, 2026 — Kaduna. Borno. Plateau. Benue. “Church attacked. Villages raided. Security forces ambushed. Families buried.

 

“At this point, hearing “enough is enough” is no longer a statement of reassurance, it is a declaration of helplessness and surrender.

 

“We cannot continue like this. Nigeria needs a real Commander-in-Chief, not a Chief Mourner.” Globalupfront.

Gov. Mbah suspends daily tolls on petty traders in Enugu

 

Gov. Peter Mbah has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of daily toll collections from petty traders without lockup shops, declaring the practice illegal.

The directive, announced on Tuesday, forms part of efforts to curb illegal revenue collection and ease pressure on low-income residents.

Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Mbah said the move aligned with new tax reforms supporting vulnerable citizens.

He warned that anyone collecting the outlawed levies, typically ₦100 or ₦200, “whether for government or privately, will face strict legal consequences”.

Mbah added that a task force, chaired by the SSG, had been constituted to enforce compliance across markets in the state.

He urged council chairmen, traditional rulers, market leaders, Presidents-General, civil groups, and residents to report violations to the task force.

 

The governor clarified that the suspension excluded traders in lockup shops, who must still pay annual fees ranging from ₦30,000 to ₦36,000. Newspot.

Delta Govt increases doctors’ salaries to N570,000

 

 

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved a pay increase for doctors working in Delta State, raising their monthly salary by ₦200,000 and introducing a ₦100,000 tax-free allowance for house officers.

Newspotng reports that the development was made known by the Commissioner for Health, Joseph Onojaeme, during a media briefing in Asaba.

He explained that the new structure will move the salary of entry-level doctors from ₦370,000 to ₦570,000, while house officers will now earn above ₦350,000 instead of the previous amount, slightly above ₦250,000.

The extra allowance is part of what the government calls the MORE Special Allowance.

The decision comes at a time when the state is trying to recruit over 700 health workers but has not seen enough doctors turn up, even though more than 6,000 people applied.

 

The government said the new pay package will make the jobs more attractive and encourage qualified doctors to join the state’s health system.

Onojaeme said the aim of the increase is to improve the quality of healthcare services and ensure hospitals have enough staff to attend to patients.

 

He also stated that the recruitment process will remain fair and based on merit, with no room for payments or favouritism.

 

He said that the state government is seeking to solve the shortage of medical workers while also improving their welfare and working conditions across public health institutions in Delta State.

NDC appoints Vice Chairmen for 6 zones

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced new national vice chairmen to represent the six geopolitical zones in the country.

Newspotng reports that the decision was made public on Monday in a statement issued by the party’s national chairman, Cleopas Zuwoghe, and national secretary, Ikenna Enekweizu.

According to the party, the appointments were made to ensure that all parts of the country are properly represented within its leadership structure.

The zones covered include the north-west, north-east, north-central, south-south, south-east, and south-west.

The party explained that the move is part of its plan to strengthen its presence across the country and build a leadership system that carries everyone along.

It also noted that the step is linked to preparations for its upcoming congresses and national convention.

For the north-west zone, the party selected Mohammed Bakin Zuwo. Danlami Arabs was chosen for the north-east, while Barnabas J. Ejisi will serve the north-central zone.

In the southern region, Frederick E. Owotorufa was appointed for the south-south, Teddy Obey for the south-east, and Adedayo Ekong for the south-west.

The NDC is a relatively new  political party, having been officially registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission in February 2026.Politics

A few weeks later, on March 15, the party introduced an online platform to allow Nigerians to join as members

Navy ready to partner with relevant organisations to strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capacity, boost naval operations – CNS

 

 

The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas has stated that the Nigerian Navy (NN is ready to partner with relevant organisations that will enhance indigenous shipbuilding capacity and boost naval operations.

He made this pledge following a courtesy visit by the Managing Director of ASELSAN Nigeria Limited, Mr. Amadou Ndongo Thiam, to the Naval Headquarters, Abuja.

The robust engagement aligns with the NN’s strategic objective of fostering partnerships that support local content development, technology transfer, and sustainable capability growth.

 

During the visit, the ASELSAN delegation expressed readiness to establish a long-term partnership with the Nigerian Navy, focusing on joint ventures, collaboration with indigenous shipyards, and integration of advanced defence technologies.

The company highlighted its expertise in unmanned systems, infrared search and track systems, integrated combat solutions, and modernization of naval platforms. The delegation’s visit to Naval Dockyard Limited, where ongoing construction of Seaward Defence Boats was observed, further underscored opportunities for synergy with Nigeria’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capacity.

 

In his remarks, the CNS, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, described the engagement as timely and strategic, emphasizing that the Nigerian Navy remains committed to partnerships that deliver tangible technology transfer and strengthen the nation’s defence industrial base.

He reiterated the importance of structured collaborations, particularly through government-to-government frameworks, to ensure transparency, efficiency, and alignment with national security priorities, while positioning the NN for enhanced maritime security operations. Globalupfront.

Court sentences terrorism convicts to 20 years, life imprisonment

 

 

THE Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, sentenced some suspected terrorists standing trial for terrorism-related offences to various jail terms, including 20 years imprisonment on each count and life imprisonment.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria NAN reports that while several of the defendants were convicted and handed 20-year sentences on each count to run concurrently, one of the convicts was sentenced to life imprisonment in addition to the sentence of 20 years on five counts relating to rendering support to terrorists.

 

NAN reports that the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who led the prosecution team informed the court that the minimum sentence for each count of terrorism related offence was 20 years imprisonment, while the maximum penalty was life imprisonment.

 

He, however, said that the court could order that the sentences commence from the date of the defendants’ arrest.

 

All those convicted so far pleaded guilty on arraignment and pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy.

 

Their offences ranged from knowingly receiving traning on handling AK47 rifles and supplying food, cloths and drugs to ISWAP, a proscribed terrorists organisation.

 

Other offences are attacking military personnel and burning their vehicle as well as supplying fuel and scrap to terrorists.

 

The mass trial of the suspected terrorists, which usually holds in Kainji, Niger, was relocated to Abuja due to the court’s ongoing Easter vacation.

 

NAN reports that most courtrooms at the Abuja division of the court were engaged in trying the suspected terrorists.

 

Some of the presiding judges included Justices Binta Nyako, Emeka Nwite and Obiora Egwuatu, among others.

 

Some of the defendants listed before Justice Nyako are Abubakar Ali, Hamat Modu, Isah Ali, Awal Bello and Shehu Bukar.

 

Those before Justice Nwite include Gonni Alhaji, Mallam Yana, Mohammed Hassan and Tasiu Yakubu among others. NAN

 

 

World Health Day: Kogi govt urges unity in science-driven healthcare delivery

The Kogi State Government has emphasised the need for unity in science-driven healthcare from disease prevention and control to improved diagnostics and treatment.
The state’s Health Commissioner, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, made the call at a press conference after a health walk on Tuesday in Lokoja, to commemorates World Health Day 2026.
He noted that the theme, “Together for Health, Stand with Science,” emphasised science-backed health approaches emphasising that collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and communities is key to advancing healthcare.
He noted that over 150 primary healthcare centers are being revitalised, and many citizens are being enrolled in health insurance schemes for universal access to care.
Abdulazeez acknowledged challenges such as access to quality healthcare in rural areas, human resource gaps, and disease burdens as he called on stakeholders to strengthen partnerships between government, academia, and communities; promote trust in science and counter misinformation
He stressed the need to support local research and innovation, and ensure that scientific advancements benefit citizens
The Commissioner reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and responsive health system, prioritising primary healthcare and empowering healthcare workers.
The state Epidemiologist, Dr Austin Ojotule, said the event aimed to create awareness about health needs and promote healthy living.
Mr Hamza Aliyu, KONGONET Chairperson, said the event raises awareness on public health issues, emphasizing science-based planning.
adding “We need to move away from local unverified methods and understand that health is driven by science.”
The Stakeholders’ and partners include: Kogi Ministry of Health, Kogi Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA), World Health Organization (WHO), Nigerian Red Cross, Sightsavers, NGOs, among others.
Authority.