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Senate Passes Electoral Act, 2022 Amid Clauses Row


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

The Senate on Tuesday passed the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill 2026, following a stormy debate over key provisions of the legislation.

Heated Debate Over Clause 60
The upper chamber’s proceedings began on a tense note as Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (ADC/Abia South) demanded a division on Clause 60, which addresses the electronic transmission of election results.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio initially stated that the demand had been withdrawn, prompting immediate objections from opposition senators.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin cited Order 52(6) of the Senate Standing Orders, arguing it would be out of order to revisit any provision already ruled on by the Senate President.

The intervention sparked further uproar, with Senator Sunday Karimi briefly clashing with Abaribe. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reminded lawmakers that his motion for rescission invalidated previous decisions, making Abaribe’s demand procedurally in order.

Abaribe, invoking Order 72(1), called for a division specifically on Clause 60(3), which provides that if electronic transmission fails, Form EC8A should not serve as the sole basis for results. 

He sought the removal of the proviso allowing manual transmission in case of network failure.

During the division, 55 senators supported retaining the proviso, while 15 opposed, effectively upholding the existing clause.

Clause-by-Clause Consideration
The Senate had earlier moved into clause-by-clause deliberation following the formal seconding of a motion to rescind the earlier passage of the bill.

This allowed lawmakers to dissolve into a Committee of the Whole for detailed consideration and re-enactment of the legislation.

The process stalled briefly at Clause 60 after Abaribe’s point of order, prompting murmurs and consultations across the chamber before the session moved into a closed-door deliberation.

Timing of 2027 Elections

Concerns over the 2027 general elections timetable and technical inconsistencies in the bill prompted the motion for rescission. 

Bamidele noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had fixed the elections for February 2027, but certain provisions in the amended law, particularly the 360-day notice requirement in Clause 28, could conflict with this schedule.

He explained that conducting elections during Ramadan could adversely affect voter turnout, logistical arrangements, and the overall inclusiveness of the process.

The motion also highlighted discrepancies in the Long Title and multiple clauses, including Clauses 6, 9, 10, 22, 23, 28, 29, 32, 42, 47, 51, 60, 62, 64, 65, 73, 77, 86, 87, 89, 93, and 143. These issues reportedly affected cross-referencing, serial numbering, and internal consistency within the bill.

Women Affairs Ministry Seeks Increase in 2026 Budget Allocation



By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has called for an upward review of the N134.2 billion proposed for her ministry in the 2026 fiscal year.

The appeal was made during her budget defence before the Senate Committee on Women Affairs on Monday, as the committee expressed concern over what it described as “abysmally low” cash releases for the ministry’s capital and overhead components in the 2025 budget.

According to the minister, increasing the allocation would enable the ministry to effectively implement programmes aimed at addressing the complex challenges facing women across the country.

“In line with the plan and the need for more domestic allocations in the 2026 fiscal year, an upward review of budget estimates for the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development should be done,” Hajia Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated.

Responding, the committee chairman, Senator Ireti Kingibe (FCT), said while there was no objection to a higher allocation for 2026, the persistent issue of poor fund releases must first be addressed.

“We are not against an upward review of what is earmarked for your ministry in 2026, but the problem is abysmal. Release of funds, as reflected in your presentation on the 2025 budget appropriation and releases, is a serious concern to us. 

That problem must be addressed first,” she said.

During her presentation, the minister revealed that out of N89.8 billion appropriated for capital expenditure in 2025, only N394 million was released in December, which was ultimately unutilised. Similarly, of the N2.8 billion allocated for overhead costs, only N471 million was released.

For 2026, the ministry has been earmarked a total of N134.2 billion, broken down as N2.1 billion for personnel costs, N131.2 billion for capital expenditure, and N810.9 million for overhead.

EFCC Grills El-Rufai Amid Protests and Tear Gas in Abuja


By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on Monday interrogated former Kaduna State governor Nasiru El-Rufai over allegations of mismanagement of public funds during his eight-year tenure in office from 2015 to 2023, triggering tension and protests outside the agency’s headquarters in Abuja.

El-Rufai, who honoured an invitation from the anti-graft agency, arrived at the EFCC facility to face questioning as part of an ongoing investigation into the handling of state finances during his administration.

His lawyer, Ubong Akpan, said the commission’s invitation was initially received while the former governor was overseas. He maintained that his client had nothing to hide and criticised what he described as attempts to create unnecessary drama around the process, insisting that due process must be respected.

Supporters, Counter-Protesters Storm EFCC

Shortly after El-Rufai’s arrival, two separate groups gathered outside the commission’s office in a show of solidarity and opposition.

Supporters chanted songs and waved placards bearing messages such as “We stand with El-Rufai. We stand for law” and “El-Rufai is a citizen, not a subject.”

At the same time, a counter-protest organised by the Mega National Movement for Good Governance called for accountability, urging the EFCC to carry out a thorough and impartial investigation.

Members of the group held banners reading “El-Rufai cannot hide behind politics; let the law catch up” and “Answer the charge, El-Rufai.”

Tear Gas Fired to Disperse Crowd

Tension rose when several individuals who accompanied the former governor attempted to enter the EFCC premises despite being informed that only El-Rufai had been invited.

Security operatives repeatedly ordered the crowd to disperse, but when they reportedly refused, officers fired tear gas to clear the area, creating a brief chaotic scene.

Videos circulating on social media showed protesters running amid clouds of tear gas as security officials moved to restore order.

An EFCC spokesperson defended the action, saying the measure was necessary to prevent obstruction of official duties and ensure that lawful procedures were not disrupted.

Investigation Continues

The commission later confirmed that calm had been restored around the premises and that El-Rufai remained inside for interrogation.

Officials reiterated their commitment to conducting a fair, lawful and unbiased investigation, stressing that no individual is above the law.

The development marks the latest chapter in growing scrutiny of former public office holders, as anti-corruption agencies intensify efforts to enforce accountability in governance.

National Assembly Approves ₦1.5 Trillion 2026 Budget for Nigerian Army


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Nigeria’s security architecture received a major boost as the National Assembly has approved a ₦1.5 trillion budget proposal for the Nigerian Army for the 2026 fiscal year.
The approval followed a joint budget defence session between lawmakers and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, held in Abuja.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Abdulaziz Yar’Adua, said members of the committee were satisfied with the Army’s presentation and spending plans.
“After listening to the Chief of Army Staff’s presentation, all members expressed satisfaction,” Yar’Adua stated.
However, he pointed out a recurring challenge that could affect implementation — delays in the release of funds. According to him, the issue has impacted several ministries, departments, and agencies across government.
Despite this, he reassured the Army of legislative backing.
“The Army is critical to our nation’s security. We are committed to collaborating with you and ensuring you succeed. We will support you with everything you need,” he added.
On the other side of the legislature, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Army, Aminu Balele, commended the Army’s leadership and personnel for their dedication to national duty.
He praised their sacrifices in combating insurgency and safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, describing their service as patriotic and commendable.
Balele also pledged that the House committee would continue to push for the timely release of funds and strengthen its oversight responsibilities to ensure effective budget execution.
“As we conclude the 2026 budget defence, we understand the challenges of implementation. We will keep advocating for prompt funding so the Army can fully carry out its constitutional responsibilities,” he said.
Why This Matters
With Nigeria still battling insecurity in various regions, the sizeable allocation signals the government’s intention to strengthen military operations, logistics, and personnel welfare. However, timely disbursement of funds will be key to turning budget promises into real impact on the ground.
If properly implemented, the 2026 budget could significantly enhance the Army’s capacity to respond to threats and maintain national stability.

Security Operatives Allegedly Attempt to Arrest El-Rufai at Abuja Airport

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Former Nasir El-Rufai was on Thursday reportedly confronted by security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, shortly after returning to Nigeria from Cairo, Egypt, in what aides described as an attempted arrest.

The claim was made by his media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, who disclosed the development in a post on his verified account on X.

According to Adekeye, the operatives approached the former Kaduna State governor as he disembarked from his flight and sought to take him into custody. 

He said El-Rufai declined to follow the agents, insisting that he would only respond to a formal invitation or warrant.
“Security agents today attempted to arrest Malam Nasir El-Rufai as he arrived on a flight from Cairo. 

Malam El-Rufai declined to follow them without a formal invitation,” the statement read.

Adekeye further alleged that the security personnel seized the former governor’s passport during the encounter, claiming it was taken from one of his aides.

The incident comes amid heightened political tension surrounding El-Rufai, who recently defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress to the African Democratic Congress.

In a separate interview with BBC Hausa, the former governor expressed concerns that he could soon be arrested, alleging what he described as growing political pressure and intimidation against opposition figures.

He claimed that four of his former associates in Kaduna had already been detained.

“Four people we worked together in Kaduna have been arrested; so it’s only a matter of time before they come for me too,” he said.

El-Rufai maintained that he had not been arrested but suggested that the arrests of his associates indicated possible action against him. 

He also alleged that politicians were being pressured to either defect to or remain within the ruling party.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from security agencies or the Federal Government regarding the alleged attempt to arrest the former governor.

Nigeria Listed Among Top Five Countries for Child Soldier Recruitment — United Nations


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Nigeria has been named among the five countries with the highest number of children recruited into armed groups, the United Nations has said, warning that the global crisis of children caught in conflict is worsening at an alarming rate.

The disclosure was made in an interview with UN News ahead of the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers by the UN Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Vanessa Frazier.

Frazier described the recruitment and use of minors as one of the most widespread and grave violations of children’s rights globally.

“In 2024 alone, over 7,400 children were recruited or used by armed forces and armed groups — and those are only the verified cases,” she said.

According to the UN, the countries with the highest number of violations include Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, and Myanmar.

The organisation also raised concerns about emerging patterns in Sudan, where children are reportedly being used as border guards and frontline fighters.
Frazier said the figures represent real human tragedies.

“Each number in our report represents a child whose innocence has been interrupted,” she noted.

In Nigeria, insurgent violence in the northeast has exposed thousands of children to abduction and forced recruitment by armed groups, including Boko Haram, leaving long-term psychological and social scars on affected communities.

The UN said that over the past 30 years, its children and armed conflict mandate has helped secure the release of more than 220,000 children from armed groups worldwide.

Following their release, UNICEF and partner organisations provide rehabilitation services, including psychosocial support, education, and community reintegration.

However, the agency warned that reintegration remains challenging, particularly for girls who often face stigma or rejection after returning from captivity.

Frazier stressed the need for stronger prevention measures, saying governments and partners must prioritise protecting children and addressing the root causes of recruitment.

She added that without urgent action, more children risk losing their childhoods to armed conflict.

Shettima Heads to Addis Ababa for African Union Summit To Represents Tinubu

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja 

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Thursday departed Abuja for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he will represent President Bola Tinubu at the 2026 African Union (AU) Summit.

According to a statement released by his Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, the high-level summit will centre on the theme: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”

The discussions are expected to drive stronger continental commitments toward sustainable water management, improved sanitation infrastructure, and long-term development goals across Africa.

During his stay, Shettima will join other African leaders at the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government and the 30th General Assembly, scheduled for February 14 and 15, 2026.

Beyond the main sessions, the Vice President is also expected to participate in strategic side events and hold bilateral meetings with political and business leaders. 

These engagements aim to deepen Nigeria’s diplomatic ties, expand economic cooperation, and strengthen partnerships across the continent.

Shettima is accompanied by several cabinet ministers and senior government officials and is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his official assignments.