Crunch Times News

By Blessing Okola 

Abuja

The Federal Government has taken a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s protection framework for women and girls with the official launch of a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Abia State.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman- Ibrahim described the establishment of the Centre as a strategic and necessary intervention in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), which she noted remains pervasive, deeply underreported, and increasingly complex in both physical and digital forms.

“Today marks a major step in strengthening the protection architecture for women and girls in Nigeria,” the Minister stated. “The establishment of this Sexual Assault Referral Centre provides a safe, confidential, and integrated platform for medical care, psychosocial support, legal referral, and justice services for survivors.”

Head, Press and Public Relations FMWASD, Ahmed Lawan Danbazau in a statement issued to blueprint on Thursday in abuja, the Minister emphasised that the Centre represents a structured, survivor-centred response embedded within Nigeria’s broader national social development framework.

She disclosed that as of November 2025, Nigeria has fifty (50) Sexual Assault Referral Centres across twenty-four (24) States, collectively assisting over fifty-eight thousand (58,134) survivors. According to her, the figures remain insufficient compared to the magnitude of reported and unreported cases nationwide.

“A functional SARC ensures that survivors receive confidential, survivor-centred, and integrated services under one coordinated framework,” she said, noting that fragmented responses often compound trauma and weaken justice outcomes.

She further highlighted the rising threat of technology-facilitated gender-based violence, including cyberstalking, digital coercion, online trafficking, image-based abuse, and coordinated digital harassment.

“These emerging threats demand stronger institutional response systems that combine legal, psychosocial, medical, and digital protection mechanisms. This Centre is not only relevant for today’s realities but essential for addressing evolving forms of violence confronting women and girls.”

She commended complementary programmes such as the Osusu Abaala Women Palm-Oil Collective, which aims to strengthen women’s incomes and reduce economic vulnerability—one of the root drivers of gender-based violence.

“When women are economically secure, socially organised, and institutionally supported, their exposure to exploitation, abuse, and dependency significantly declines,” she affirmed.

Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment, the Minister stated that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development remains focused on strengthening the national GBV response architecture through policy reforms, survivor support systems, data-driven coordination, and strategic partnerships under the Renewed Hope Social Development Agenda.

The Ministér commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring 2026 as the Year for Social Development and Families, describing the declaration as a bold step toward repositioning protection services as a core pillar of national stability, human capital development, and social justice.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

It came as a surprise to many opposition politicians and civil society organisations on Wednesday when President Bola Tinubu swiftly signed the amended Electoral Act into law—barely 24 hours after its passage by the National Assembly.

The rapid assent has triggered widespread criticism, particularly from the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), which had urged the President to withhold approval over what it described as “dangerous ambiguities” capable of undermining electoral transparency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Controversial Network Failure Clause

At the centre of the controversy is a new provision that permits Presiding Officers to rely on Form EC8A for manual result collation whenever electronic transmission is disrupted by alleged network failure.

The CNPP argues that while network challenges may exist in remote areas, the amendment fails to establish a clear, transparent, and independently verifiable system for determining when such failures actually occur.

In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, James Ezema, the coalition warned that leaving the decision solely to polling officials creates loopholes that could be exploited for electoral manipulation.

“In modern electoral governance, transparency must be anchored on measurable, auditable, and tamper-proof procedures,” the group stated.

Fears of Manipulation and Security Risks

Beyond transparency concerns, the CNPP also warned that the provision could expose officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to public suspicion and hostility.

According to the group, citizens often verify network availability with their personal devices. Any contradiction between public access and officials’ claims of failure could spark distrust, confrontation, and possible unrest at polling units.

The coalition fears this may not only compromise the credibility of election results but also endanger the safety of election personnel.

“Step Backwards” for Electoral Reform

Nigeria has made gradual progress toward technology-driven elections, including digital accreditation and electronic transmission of results.

However, critics say the amendment risks reversing those gains by reopening space for manual collation processes that lack strict oversight.

The CNPP described the move as a regression that could erode public confidence in the electoral system.

The group proposed several safeguards, including:

Independent real-time network verification systems

Mandatory authentication and timestamp checks before manual collation

Clear sanctions for false network failure claims

Third-party monitoring accessible to parties and observers

It urged Tinubu to return the bill with recommendations that prioritize technology and accountability.

Despite Pressure, Tinubu Assents

Despite mounting opposition from political groups, civil society actors, and election observers, President Tinubu proceeded with the signing at the State House Abuja around 5 p.m., witnessed by top lawmakers.

The bill had been fast-tracked through the legislature just days after INEC unveiled its roadmap for the 2027 elections.

Civil Society Reacts

Several civil society organisations expressed shock at the development. Among them were ActionAid and Yiaga Africa, both of which have long advocated for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results to reduce vote rigging.

Last week, activists and opposition figures protested at the National Assembly, demanding stronger technological safeguards to ensure credibility.

However, members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) defended the hybrid system, arguing that unreliable network coverage in rural communities makes full electronic transmission impractical.

What This Means for 2027

With the amendment now law, attention is shifting to how it will be implemented and whether the safeguards demanded by stakeholders will be introduced through regulations or further reforms.

For many Nigerians, the debate highlights a larger question: will electoral laws strengthen transparency—or create fresh opportunities for manipulation?

As the 2027 elections approach, trust in the system may depend on how convincingly those concerns are addressed.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians for forgiveness over any wrongs he may have committed, urging citizens to embrace peace, unity, and moral renewal as Muslims commence the holy month of Ramadan.

Speaking on Wednesday at the opening of this year’s Tafsir at the State House Mosque in Abuja, the president reflected on the spiritual significance of the season and the need for compassion and reconciliation across the nation.

Tinubu noted that this year’s Ramadan coincides with the Christian observance of Lent, describing the overlap as a powerful reminder of the shared values that unite both faiths — sacrifice, discipline, prayer, and self-denial.

“Ramadan coincides with Lent, reminding us of our common commitment to sacrifice, discipline, prayer, and self-denial,” he said. “The essence of this season is to do good to others, share love and faith, and forgive. 

If I have sinned against any Nigerian, I ask that you forgive me.”

The president emphasized that fasting should not be limited to abstaining from food and drink but should also reflect inner transformation through kindness, forgiveness, and acts of service to humanity.

He further called on Nigerians of all religious backgrounds to pray for the country and support ongoing efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, and insecurity.

Also speaking at the event, Abdulwahid Suleiman, Chief Imam of the mosque, expressed gratitude to Allah for granting Muslims the opportunity to witness another Ramadan. 

He commended the president’s leadership and offered prayers for wisdom, strength, and good health for Tinubu and his administration, while asking for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity for the nation.

As Ramadan and Lent unfold side by side, the moment serves as a timely call for Nigerians to reflect, renew their faith, and strengthen the bonds that hold the country together.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on residents of Abuja to vote out the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council elections, describing the polls as a defining moment for Nigerians seeking meaningful political change.

In a message shared on his social media platforms, Atiku revealed that he joined other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, to engage voters across the capital city on the importance of participating in the elections.

According to him, the council polls will serve as a critical test of Nigeria’s electoral system and the credibility of those responsible for conducting free and fair elections.

“This election is very important. It will say a lot about how ready the managers of our elections are to deliver free, fair and credible polls,” he said.

Atiku stressed that the vote also presents citizens with an opportunity to demonstrate their readiness to demand better governance and accountability.

He encouraged residents to turn out in large numbers to support ADC candidates, describing them as individuals with the competence, capacity, and character required to provide effective leadership at the grassroots level.

“Our party has fielded candidates with competence, capacity and character to offer quality leadership across local councils in Abuja,” he added.

The former vice president further urged voters not to succumb to threats or intimidation, emphasizing that civic courage is essential to strengthening democracy.

Atiku also took aim at the APC-led administration under President Bola Tinubu, accusing the government of failing to address pressing national issues affecting citizens.

He argued that the FCT elections offer a starting point for Nigerians to begin removing the ruling party from power.

“The APC-led Federal Government has failed citizens on many fronts. APC must be voted out in the coming elections, and we should start with the FCT elections,” he stated.

As political activities intensify ahead of the polls, all eyes will be on Abuja to see whether voters heed the call for change or maintain the status quo.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

Residents of Abuja will experience tight security and movement restrictions this Saturday as authorities prepare for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has announced a large-scale deployment of security personnel across the territory to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the polls.

According to the Command, the operation involves coordinated support from several sister security agencies, including the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Air Force, Nigeria Navy, Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

The FCT Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, directed officers to maintain professionalism and impartiality while providing adequate security at polling units and collation centres.

He emphasized that personnel must remain vigilant, courteous, and respectful of citizens’ rights throughout the exercise.

Movement Restriction

To strengthen security during the elections, authorities have announced a restriction of movement from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM across the FCT.

Only:

Essential service providers

Accredited election officials

will be allowed to move during this period.

Residents are advised to comply fully with security guidelines and cooperate with officers on duty.

Public Advisory

The police reassured citizens of adequate protection and encouraged everyone to come out peacefully to exercise their civic responsibility without fear.

Members of the public are also urged to report suspicious persons or activities using the emergency lines:

📞 08032003913

📞 08061581938

Security agencies say all necessary measures have been put in place to guarantee a free, fair, and violence-free election.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

As Christians around the world prepare to observe the Lenten season, Pope Leo XIV has called for a different kind of sacrifice — one that goes beyond food and focuses on the way people speak to one another.

In his 2026 Lenten message released ahead of Ash Wednesday and published by the Vatican, the Pontiff urged believers to abstain from words that offend, wound, or humiliate others, describing it as a “very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence.”

“I would like to invite you to a very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbour,” the Pope said.

A Season of Reflection and Conversion

Lent, the 40-day period marked by prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, offers Christians an opportunity to refocus their lives on God, the Pope explained. 

He noted that true conversion begins when believers allow God’s word to touch their hearts and guide them toward renewed commitment to Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.

According to him, listening plays a central role in spiritual growth — listening not only to God but also to others. He stressed that authentic relationships are built on attentiveness and compassion.

“In the midst of the many voices present in our personal lives and in society, Sacred Scripture helps us to recognise and respond to the cry of those who are anguished and suffering,” he said.

Fasting Beyond Food

While traditional fasting remains important, the Pope said it should not be limited to physical sacrifice. Instead, fasting should help believers rediscover their hunger for justice and free themselves from complacency.

“Precisely because it involves the body, fasting makes it easier to recognise what we ‘hunger’ for and what we deem necessary for our sustenance,” he explained.

However, he cautioned that fasting must be practiced with humility and faith, warning that it should never become a source of pride or self-righteousness.

‘Disarm Your Language’

Highlighting what he described as an often-overlooked form of fasting, the Pontiff urged Christians to “disarm” their speech.

He called on believers to avoid harsh words, rash judgment, gossip, slander, and speaking ill of others — especially those who are not present to defend themselves.

“Let us begin by disarming our language,” he said.

The Pope encouraged kindness and respect in everyday interactions — at home, at work, in churches, on social media, and even during political debates.

If practiced faithfully, he said, “words of hatred” would give way to “words of hope and peace.”

Building Communities of Compassion

Beyond personal discipline, the Pope emphasized the communal nature of Lent, urging families, parishes, and religious communities to become spaces of listening, welcome, and support — particularly for the poor and suffering.

He concluded with a prayer that Christian communities would find the strength to practice a deeper, more meaningful fast — one that creates space for others by choosing words that heal rather than harm.

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Millions of faithful across the world are today beginning the sacred observances of Ramadan and Lent, marking solemn periods of fasting, prayer, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal in Islam and Christianity.

For Muslims, Ramadan — the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar — is a deeply significant time devoted to fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, charity, and self-discipline. 

The holy month encourages believers to strengthen their relationship with God, support the needy, and cultivate patience and gratitude.

Christians observing Lent are also commencing a 40-day journey of prayer, repentance, and self-denial leading up to Easter Sunday. The season begins with Ash Wednesday, symbolizing reflection and spiritual preparation.

Moon Sighting Confirms Start of Ramadan

Authorities in Saudi Arabia officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon on Tuesday, confirming the start of Ramadan 1447. With the Hilal sighted, fasting begins on Wednesday, while Taraweeh prayers were held after Isha on Tuesday night.

A post shared on X by @Muslim stated:

“BREAKING: Saudi Arabia announces the first day of fasting for Ramadan to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Taraweeh will begin tonight on the first evening of the blessed month. It’s recommended to follow the fasting time designated by your local community and country.”

Countries Begin Fasting

Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, alongside Saudi Arabia and several other nations, will observe their first fast at dawn on Wednesday.

However, due to differences in moon sightings and time zones, some countries will begin a day later. Muslims in Japan, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey have officially announced Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan.

Nigeria’s Sultan Declares Ramadan

In Nigeria, the President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, declared Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of Ramadan following widespread reports of crescent sightings across the country.

According to a statement signed by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Prof. Sambo Wali Junaid, the moon was sighted in multiple locations on the 29th day of Sha’aban, confirming the commencement of the fast.

The Sultan urged Muslims nationwide to dedicate the holy month to prayers for peace, national unity, and improved security, while continuing to support one another through acts of kindness and charity.

A Season of Faith and Renewal

As Ramadan and Lent begin simultaneously this year, both Muslims and Christians are united in a shared spirit of sacrifice, devotion, and reflection — a powerful reminder of faith’s enduring role in fostering compassion and hope around the world.