OGHA 2027: Olukemi Adeogun Gains Momentum After Rural Wards Advocacy Press Conference

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February 13, 2026

OGHA 2027: Olukemi Adeogun Gains Momentum After Rural Wards Advocacy Press Conference

Chief Mrs. Olukemi Adeogun gains APC attention after advocating for rural ward representation for the Ota Constituency 1 Assembly seat in 2027

Olukemi Adeogun Declares ‘Rural Wards’ Turn,’ Emerges Strong Contender for Ota 1 Seat

Chief Mrs. Olukemi Adeogun, Yeyegunwa of Ota Awori Kingdom, has stepped firmly into the 2027 political conversation following a press conference organised by the Rural Wards Frontier Advocacy (RWFA) in Atan, Ota.

The event, held at Ansarudeen Primary School, Atan, is being widely viewed as a strategic moment that has strengthened her profile as a leading aspirant for the Ogun State House of Assembly seat representing Ota Constituency 1.

In a statement issued on Friday, February 13, 2026, by Yeye Media Guru, Adeogun’s media team, and seen by NewsHeadline247, the advocacy engagement was described as a turning point in the push for rural political inclusion.

According to the statement, Adeogun delivered what observers described as a passionate and compelling message centred on equity and representation.

She asserted that “it is the turn of rural wards to be the next Assembly,” a declaration that reportedly resonated strongly with leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) present at the gathering.

Her firm stance on rural inclusion, combined with her readiness to serve, was said to have earned her significant goodwill within party circles.

“As a woman with a vision for Ota Constituency 1, Chief Mrs. Adeogun’s message struck a chord with the gathering,” the statement read.

“Her emphasis on the need for rural wards to take the reins of power and her readiness to serve have positioned her as a strong contender for the APC ticket.”

The statement further indicated that APC leaders and members have taken note of her growing influence and consistent advocacy for grassroots representation.

Observers say Adeogun’s emergence aligns with broader conversations within Ota about political rotation and inclusivity at the state legislative level.

With momentum building and 2027 gradually approaching, her camp believes she has positioned herself as a formidable contender in what is expected to be a competitive race for Ota Constituency 1.

As political alignments continue to evolve, Adeogun’s rural wards agenda appears set to remain a central talking point in Ota’s pre-2027 political landscape. Read More

Billionaire Femi Otedola Predicts Naira Below ₦1,000/$ Before 2026 Ends—Thanks to Dangote Refinery Milestone

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February 13, 2026

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Billionaire Femi Otedola Predicts Naira Below ₦1,000/$ Before 2026 Ends—Thanks to Dangote Refinery Milestone

Billionaire Femi Otedola forecasts naira strengthening below ₦1,000 per dollar by end-2026, driven by Dangote Refinery’s full 650,000 bpd capacity

Dangote Refinery’s Full Throttle Could Send Naira Below ₦1,000/$ by December, Says Femi Otedola

Billionaire businessman and investor Femi Otedola is sounding an optimistic note on Nigeria’s currency, predicting the naira could strengthen to trade below ₦1,000 against the US dollar before the end of 2026—all thanks to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery hitting its stride.

In a post on his X platform, Otedola congratulated Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Group after the refinery achieved its full designed capacity of 650,000 barrels per day—a landmark moment that positions it to pump out up to 75 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily.

Otedola hailed the development as “transformative for Nigeria and the African continent,” arguing that ending decades of heavy fuel import dependence will slash demand for dollars in the foreign exchange market.

“With domestic refining now firmly underway after decades of reliance on imports, pressure on the foreign exchange market should ease significantly. I am optimistic that the naira will strengthen meaningfully, and trading below ₦1,000/$1 before year-end is increasingly within reach,” Otedola stated.

The refinery’s ramp-up follows recent optimization of its Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) and Motor Spirit (MS) production block, enabling steady full-capacity operations and marking a global first for a single-train refinery of this scale.

Otedola also spotlighted Dangote’s ambitious next step: a $12 billion expansion to boost refining capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day. The upgrade will add production of 2.4 million tonnes of polypropylene annually and 400,000 metric tonnes of Linear Alkyl Benzene for detergent manufacturing—further diversifying output and supporting industrial growth.

He described the entire trajectory as a “historic achievement” for Nigeria’s economy, urging continued momentum to unlock lasting forex relief and broader prosperity.

Otedola’s forecast comes amid recent naira gains, with the currency trading around ₦1,350–₦1,360 in the official market as of mid-February 2026—its strongest levels in over two years—fueled partly by improved oil sector dynamics and policy measures.

If domestic refining sustains momentum and curbs import bills, many analysts see room for further appreciation—though reaching sub-₦1,000 would require sustained stability across oil prices, inflows, and macroeconomic factors. Read More

Trump’s New Immigration Crackdown: Plans to Revoke Citizenship from Hundreds of Naturalised Americans Each Month

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February 13, 2026

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Trump’s New Immigration Crackdown: Plans to Revoke Citizenship from Hundreds of Naturalised Americans Each Month

The Trump administration is ramping up efforts to strip U.S. citizenship from naturalised Americans, aiming for 100–200 denaturalisation cases monthly

Trump Administration Accelerates Plans to Strip Citizenship from Naturalised Americans

The Trump administration is dramatically scaling up efforts to revoke U.S. citizenship from naturalised Americans, part of an aggressive immigration enforcement push that includes mass deportations, expanded detention, and visa crackdowns.

According to people familiar with the plans, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is redeploying specialised staff and shifting personnel across more than 80 field offices nationwide to identify and build denaturalisation cases at a much faster pace.

The goal: generate 100 to 200 new cases per month for litigation — a dramatic increase compared with the 102 total cases filed during the entirety of Trump’s first term.

Historically, denaturalisation proceedings have targeted individuals who concealed serious criminal histories, human rights violations, war crimes, or terrorism links during their citizenship applications. The current expansion appears far broader, with the Justice Department instructing attorneys to prioritise cases involving national security threats — and leaving room for a wide range of other “significant” matters.

USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser defended the approach, telling NBC News, “We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud in the naturalisation process and will pursue denaturalisation proceedings for any individual who lied or misrepresented themselves. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those undermining the integrity of America’s immigration system and work alongside the Department of Justice to ensure that only those who meet citizenship standards retain the privilege of U.S. citizenship.”

To accelerate the process, officials are embedding trained investigators in field offices nationwide and streamlining coordination with the Justice Department.

The renewed focus comes as President Trump continues his long-standing campaign to redefine aspects of U.S. citizenship. He has repeatedly challenged birthright citizenship — an issue currently before the Supreme Court — and on Truth Social vowed to remove anyone who is not a “net asset” to the country, pledging to “denaturalise migrants who undermine domestic tranquillity.”

Around 800,000 people become naturalised U.S. citizens each year after meeting requirements that include years of legal permanent residency, English proficiency, civics knowledge, and demonstration of “good moral character.”

Experts emphasise that denaturalisation remains extremely rare and legally difficult. Doug Rand, a former USCIS official, warned:

“It’s so important for current and future naturalised U.S. citizens to know that no president can unilaterally strip people of the citizenship they’ve worked so hard to earn.”

The intensified effort is part of a wider Department of Homeland Security strategy that includes large-scale deportation operations, expanded detention capacity, and attempts to deport some lawful permanent residents.

As the policy takes shape, immigration advocates and legal experts are closely watching how broadly the administration will interpret “fraud or misrepresentation” and whether the sharp increase in cases will hold up under judicial scrutiny. Read More

Ogun West Deserves Governorship in 2027 — Ojolowo-Ojuko Backs Yayi at Major Rally

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Lukman Omikunle

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February 13, 2026

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Ogun West Deserves Governorship in 2027 — Ojolowo-Ojuko Backs Yayi at Major Rally

Ojolowo-Ojuko declares Ogun West’s turn for governorship in 2027, endorses Senator Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) at Yewa North rally

2027: Ogun West Must Produce Next Governor, Ojolowo-Ojuko Declares, Throws Weight Behind Yayi

A prominent traditional and political figure, Hon. (Chief) Olusegun Samsondeen Ojolowo-Ojuko, the Ogboye of Ota Aworiland, has declared that 2027 must mark a historic shift in Ogun State’s leadership, insisting that Ogun West deserves to produce the next governor.

Speaking at an official rally and townhall meeting organised by Assurance Grassroots Support for Yayi in Aiyetoro, Yewa North Local Government Area, Ojolowo-Ojuko described the moment as a defining turning point for equity and political balance in the state.

The rally was held in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.

Reflecting on Ogun State’s 50th anniversary since its creation in 1976, Ojolowo-Ojuko said the milestone demanded more than celebration — it required honest reflection.

“For half a century, Ogun West has waited,” he declared.

He noted that while Ogun East and Ogun Central have produced governors, Ogun West — despite its electoral strength, industrial contribution and strategic border position — has never occupied the state’s top office.

“This is not a complaint. It is a fact of history,” he said.

“This is not a call driven by sentiment. It is a call grounded in justice, equity, and political balance.”

According to him, correcting what he described as a historic imbalance would strengthen unity rather than divide the state.

“Fair representation does not weaken Ogun East or Ogun Central. Fair representation deepens trust and secures long-term stability.”

Ojolowo-Ojuko argued that the 2027 governorship election must go beyond zoning and focus on competence.

“Leadership in contemporary Nigeria is no longer about rhetoric. It is about capacity, competence, courage, and credibility,” he said.

He described Senator Adeola as a seasoned legislator with deep knowledge of public finance, budgeting and fiscal oversight.

“He is not a career sloganist. He is a student and master of numbers,” he stated.

The Ado-Odo/Ota APC chieftain highlighted Adeola’s experience in the National Assembly, citing his record in financial intelligence, legislative discipline and policy depth.

“Ogun State needs a governor who understands revenue generation and expenditure control — not by theory, but by practice.”

Ojolowo-Ojuko also stressed the importance of synergy between Ogun State and the Federal Government under President Tinubu.

“Nigeria today is undergoing deep reforms,” he said, adding that states must be led by governors who understand federal budgeting, infrastructure negotiation and economic planning.

“States that progress rapidly are led by governors who can engage Abuja not as visitors, but as stakeholders.”

He maintained that Adeola’s federal legislative experience positions him to attract investment, infrastructure and economic opportunities to Ogun State.

Addressing different demographic groups, Ojolowo-Ojuko said the 2027 project must focus on jobs, skills, social investment and inclusion.

“To the youths: this is about jobs and opportunity. To the women: this is about healthcare and inclusion. To the elders: this is about peace and legacy.”

He described the Assurance Grassroots Support for Yayi movement as “organic, deliberate and people-driven.”

Ojolowo-Ojuko concluded with a firm warning against experimentation in leadership.

“Ogun State is too strategic for trial and error. 2027 must be about readiness, balance and capable leadership.”

“Yayi is ready. Ogun State is ready. History is ready.”

As political alignments begin to take shape ahead of 2027, the rally signals early mobilisation in Ogun West, where calls for equity and representation are gaining renewed momentum. Read More

PFN Demands New Constitution, Says 1999 Charter ‘Unfair to Christians’

Politics

Staff Reporter

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February 13, 2026

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PFN Demands New Constitution, Says 1999 Charter ‘Unfair to Christians’

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has called for the scrapping of the 1999 Constitution and its replacement with a new document that reflects what it described as the collective will, faith, and aspirations of Nigerians.

The Christian body labelled the current constitution “a contraption” imposed by the military, arguing that it fails to fairly represent the country’s religious and social realities.

‘Nigeria Needs a Brand-New Constitution’

Speaking at the end of the PFN National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the fellowship’s President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, addressed journalists on constitutional reform, insecurity, electoral integrity, governance, and recent coup allegations.

Oke maintained that piecemeal amendments would not resolve Nigeria’s structural challenges.

“What we need is not constitutional amendments; what we need is a brand-new constitution that will meet the needs of Nigeria,” he said.

Religious Representation Concerns

The PFN president argued that the 1999 Constitution disproportionately references Islam and Sharia while failing to mention Christianity, despite Christians accounting for over half of Nigeria’s population.

According to him, a new constitution should reflect equity, justice, and inclusivity for all religious and ethnic groups in the country.

The call adds to ongoing national conversations about restructuring, constitutional reform, and governance as stakeholders debate the future direction of Nigeria’s democracy. Read More

Adamu Rallies Support for Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election, Hails Renewed Hope Agenda

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Staff Reporter

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February 13, 2026

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Adamu Rallies Support for Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election, Hails Renewed Hope Agenda

A former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu, has called on Nigerians to unite behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.

Adamu said the President’s performance under the Renewed Hope Agenda provides sufficient grounds for a smooth second-term victory.

“The President is doing well through the Renewed Hope Agenda and we need to support him to succeed. He deserves all our support,” Adamu declared.

Mega Rally in Lafia

The former Nasarawa State governor spoke at Lafia Square during a mega rally organised by the state coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government (SSG), Dr. Labaran Shuaibu Magaji.

The rally was convened to appreciate President Tinubu and Governor Abdullahi Sule for what organisers described as policies positively impacting ordinary Nigerians.

Adamu, who delivered a goodwill message, also commended the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, for strengthening and repositioning the party.

He pledged continued loyalty and support to the party leadership.

‘Show of Solidarity

In his remarks, former Nasarawa State Governor, Senator Umar Tanko Al-Makura, who serves as the Northcentral Coordinator for the Renewed Hope Agenda, thanked residents for turning out in large numbers.

He described the rally as a demonstration of solidarity with the administration of President Tinubu and Governor Sule.

The event signals growing mobilisation within the APC as the party begins early groundwork ahead of the 2027 elections. Read More

FG Moves to Turn 3.5m IDPs into Economic Contributors, Shettima Says

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February 13, 2026

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FG Moves to Turn 3.5m IDPs into Economic Contributors, Shettima Says

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming internally displaced persons (IDPs) from aid recipients into active drivers of national economic growth.

Vice President Kashim Shettima made this known at the “Securing Futures: Market-Based Solutions for Displaced People Conference” held in Lagos.

Represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), Shettima said integrating displaced persons into productive economic activities is central to Nigeria’s long-term development strategy.

“When displaced persons earn sustainable incomes, they support their families with dignity, reduce dependence and become producers, customers, and contributors to economic development,” he said.

3.5 Million Nigerians Displaced

Shettima noted that displacement remains both a humanitarian and economic challenge, revealing that over 3.5 million Nigerians are currently displaced nationwide.

While acknowledging the importance of humanitarian relief, he stressed that long-term stability lies in economic inclusion and private sector participation.

He referenced the Renewable National Development Plan 2026, which prioritises economic diversification, private sector-led growth, human capital development, climate resilience and national security.

‘Investment, Not Charity’

The vice president called for stronger collaboration among federal, state and local governments, as well as the private sector, faith-based organisations and civil society groups.

“Investing in displaced communities is not charity; it is an investment in our unity, stability, and long-term prosperity,” he said.

He urged stakeholders to establish measurable partnerships and structured initiatives that would integrate displaced persons into both formal and informal value chains.

Speaking with journalists, Gen. Musa emphasised the need for coordinated efforts involving governments, NGOs, humanitarian actors and the United Nations to prepare displaced persons for self-reliance.

“They have talents and experience that must be supported so they can contribute meaningfully to their communities,” he said.

The minister further stressed that displacement management requires creating enabling environments and encouraging private sector engagement beyond corporate social responsibility.

“Helping the displaced is not charity without return. It is an investment that yields economic and social returns,” he added.

The government’s renewed focus signals a shift from short-term relief to long-term economic empowerment for displaced communities across the country. Read More

Trump to Honor U.S. Forces Behind Maduro Capture as Venezuelan Leader Faces U.S. Justice

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February 13, 2026

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Trump to Honor U.S. Forces Behind Maduro Capture as Venezuelan Leader Faces U.S. Justice

U.S. President Donald Trump will meet on Friday with the elite U.S. special forces responsible for capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro during a dramatic raid in Caracas earlier this year, the White House announced.

First Lady Melania Trump will join Trump during the visit to the Fort Bragg military base in North Carolina, where he will greet troops, their families and commend their role in what his administration has called a decisive operation against narco-terrorism.

From Caracas to Fort Bragg

In a highly unusual military action on January U.S. forces executed a nighttime raid that resulted in the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Venezuela’s capital. The mission publicly dubbed Operation Absolute Resolve — demonstrated the reach and capability of U.S. special operations forces and was widely promoted by Trump as an example of American strength.

U.S. officials say no American service members were killed in the raid, though Venezuelan sources reported significant casualties during the broader military strikes that paved the way for Maduro’s capture.

Maduro is currently in U.S. detention and faces federal charges in New York related to drug trafficking and related crimes, to which he has pleaded not guilty. His next court hearing is scheduled for March 17.

Trump Praises Forces and Highlights Strategic Gains

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the Fort Bragg visit is intended to “meet with military families and the heroic members of our special forces who carried out the successful ‘Operation Absolute Resolve’ in Venezuela and helped bring narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro to justice.”

Trump has repeatedly lauded the operation in public appearances, calling it a “spectacular” display of U.S. military prowess. He has offered praise to the forces involved and has even made colorful claims about advanced technology used during the raid.

The capture and detainment of Maduro marked a significant escalation in U.S.–Venezuela tensions and have sparked global reactions, with some critics warning about sovereignty and international law implications.

Foreign Policy

As Trump continues to spotlight the operation, this visit to Fort Bragg underscores both domestic and international political dimensions of a controversial and historic mission.

The gathering is widely expected to draw attention from military supporters and foreign policy watchers alike. Read More

Backlash Trails ‘Selected Individuals’ Endorsement of Dapo Abiodun for Ogun East Senate Seat

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February 13, 2026

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Backlash Trails ‘Selected Individuals’ Endorsement of Dapo Abiodun for Ogun East Senate Seat

Ogun East residents reject Remo leaders’ endorsement of Governor Dapo Abiodun for 2027 Senate seat, backing incumbent Gbenga Daniel instead

Ogun East Residents Reject Move to Endorse Dapo Abiodun for 2027 Senate Race

A political storm is brewing in Ogun East Senatorial District following a controversial endorsement of Governor Dapo Abiodun for the district’s Senate seat in 2027 by political officeholders from Remo Division.

At a selected stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday, under the Remo platform, Governor Abiodun was declared their preferred candidate for the 2027 Ogun East Senate race. Motions were formally moved and seconded, with speakers citing the governor’s record in office and pledging support for his prospective candidacy.

However, the endorsement quickly sparked resistance from members of the public, many of whom argued that the declaration did not reflect the broader electorate’s position.

“Fake news, dapo is going no where,” Olawunmi Babs wrote shortly after the announcement surfaced online.

Several commentators suggested the endorsement represented political appointees rather than voters.

“When I was reading the article, I thought I was dreaming until I got to the point I read the author is a paid SSA. Well, what else can the SSA do if not to promote his pocket?” Luqman Soliu wrote.

Others questioned the timing of the move, noting that incumbent senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s tenure runs until 2027.

“It is not Ogun east aimoye odun for Senate o lule,” Ifagbemi Fatunbi wrote. “O G D Carry go listening leader.”

Crystal Paths added, “Hope say no be the same ogun east wey Daniel dey sha, …..and the person that wrote this thing actually knows the truth o…issokay.”

Some reactions were blunt and dismissive.

“Who will vote for U????” Franklin David wrote.

Olatunji Muyiwa Micheal stated, “You can fool me one time but you can’t fool me all the time. Is not the Special adviser that will write good things about the Governor but the citizens. We are waiting.”

Ojedele Shakirudeen commented, “Continue to deceive yourself. Sha, tell him to fix our roads.”

Fowowe Babatunde described the governor as “A DISASTER TO THE PEOPLE OF OGUN STATE, NOW PLANNING FOR SENATE. THEY PLAY.”

Kolade Lukman added, “Failure personification.”

Addressing the governor directly, Aborlanle Temmytorpe wrote, “Mr Governor, don’t allow anybody to deceive you. You just completed your 8-year tenure and went straight to your house for relaxation. You see that Senator seat. OGD IS OUR CHOICE O.”

Support for Senator Daniel was echoed by Abdulwasiu Gbolade, who simply wrote: “OGD continuity.”

In announcing the endorsement, Chief Kola Ogunjobi cited key achievements of the Abiodun administration, including the construction of over 1,600 kilometres of roads, completion of the Gateway International Airport and attraction of industrial investments into Ogun State.

However, critics argued that unresolved local issues remain a concern for many residents.

Taiwo Adesanya wrote, “NO reputational reference. Let election determine,” while Ogunjimi Joseph Oluwaseun remarked, “Na una problem be that. As long it is not Ogun central.”

Some responses were more pointed, including: “Awon Oloshi followers and Oloshi leaders,” from Otunba Biodun Filas.

Eko John Nicholas added sarcastically, “After performing MIRACLES as governor of Ogun state for 7 years+ abi?”

The episode underscores early political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections in Ogun State.

While Remo political leaders have formally declared support for Governor Abiodun’s potential Senate bid, the public reaction reveals clear divisions within Ogun East.

As the political season gradually unfolds, one thing appears certain: endorsements by stakeholders may shape narratives, but the final verdict will rest with voters at the ballot box. Read More

INEC Projects N873.7bn for 2027 Elections as Senate Approves Electronic Result Transmission

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February 12, 2026

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INEC Projects N873.7bn for 2027 Elections as Senate Approves Electronic Result Transmission

INEC proposes N873.7bn for 2027 elections as Senate reverses earlier stance and approves real-time electronic transmission of results

2027 Elections: INEC Seeks N873bn Budget, Senate Backs Real-Time Electronic Transmission

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has projected a staggering N873,778,401,602.08 to conduct Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, setting the stage for one of the most expensive polls in the nation’s history.

INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, disclosed the figure on Thursday while presenting the Commission’s 2026 budget proposal and detailed 2027 election cost breakdown before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.

Breakdown of the N873bn Proposal

According to INEC’s estimates

Election Operational Costs: N375.7bn
Election Administrative Costs: N92.3bn
Election Technology Costs: N209.2bn
Election Capital Costs: N154.9bn

These components total N832.1bn.

In addition, Miscellaneous Expenses amount to N41.6bn, bringing the grand total to N873.7bn.

Amupitan clarified that this election budget is separate from INEC’s proposed N171bn allocation for 2026, which will fund routine operations, including by-elections and off-cycle polls.

He noted that the submission aligns with Section 3(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the Commission to present its general election budget at least one year before the poll.

Lawmakers Raise Concerns

During the budget session, lawmakers questioned funding mechanisms and implementation of key provisions of the amended Electoral Act, particularly electronic transmission of results.

Chairman of the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Samuel Lalong, assured that the National Assembly would rigorously scrutinise the proposal.

He stressed that while INEC presents financial estimates, the constitutional power to approve and appropriate funds lies with the legislature.

The committee also indicated plans to review allowances for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members deployed for election duties.

Under INEC’s proposal, each corps member will receive N127,000, N4,500 for feeding and N5,000 for five-day training.

About 450,000 corps members are expected to participate nationwide.

Senate Reverses on Electronic Transmission

The budget presentation comes amid heightened controversy over amendments to the Electoral Act 2022.

Tensions escalated after the Senate initially rejected a proposal to make real-time electronic transmission of election results mandatory.

The dispute centred on Clause 60(3), which sought to compel presiding officers to electronically transmit polling unit results to INEC’s Result Viewing (IReV) portal immediately after completing Form EC8A.

The Senate had opted to retain Section 60(5), allowing INEC discretion over result transmission methods — a decision that sparked protests by civil society groups at the National Assembly, led by Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and later joined by former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi.

However, amid mounting public pressure, the Senate convened an emergency plenary on February 10 and reversed its position.

It approved real-time electronic transmission to the IReV portal while permitting manual collation as backup in the event of technological failure.

The amendment, sponsored by Senator Tahir Monguno and supported by Minority Leader Abba Moro, was passed by voice vote.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives had already adopted the clause mandating electronic transmission.

Both chambers are now expected to harmonise their versions of the amendment bill.

High Stakes for 2027

With a projected N873.7bn price tag and renewed commitment to electronic transmission, preparations for the 2027 general elections are already shaping up to be politically and financially significant.

As scrutiny intensifies over funding and transparency mechanisms, all eyes remain on how INEC and the National Assembly will navigate the road to what could become Nigeria’s most technologically driven and costliest election cycle.