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

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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.

N2.4bn Fraud Charge: Stella Oduah Seeks Plea Bargain Talks with AGF

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N2.4bn Fraud Charge: Stella Oduah Seeks Plea Bargain Talks with AGF

N2.4bn Fraud Charge: Stella Oduah Seeks Plea Bargain Talks with AGF

A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama was informed on Thursday that former Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Adaeze Oduah, has approached the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) for discussions on a possible plea bargain over the criminal charges pending against her.

Oduah and her former aide, Gloria Odita, were arraigned on December 10, 2025, on a five-count charge bordering on the alleged misappropriation of about N2.4 billion in public funds.

The charge, marked CR/606/2025, was filed on October 14 by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. The alleged offences were said to have occurred between January and February 2014 while Oduah was serving as Minister of Aviation.

Prosecution Confirms Application

When the matter came up for trial, prosecuting counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), informed the court that although proceedings were scheduled to commence, the prosecution received an application from Oduah seeking discussions under Section 270 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015.

Oyedepo subsequently applied for an adjournment to enable parties explore the possibility of a plea bargain and report back to the court.

Counsel to Oduah and Odita — Tobechukwu Michael (SAN) and Wale Balogun (SAN) — confirmed the position stated by the prosecution.

Justice Hamza Muazu adjourned the case until March 5 for an update on negotiations or, alternatively, the commencement of full trial.

Allegations Against the Defendants

According to the charge, Oduah and Odita allegedly conspired in January 2014 to fraudulently obtain N2,459,030,733.50 from the Federal Ministry of Aviation through two companies — Broad Waters Resource Nigeria Limited and Global Offshore Marine Limited.

The prosecution alleged that the funds were obtained under the false pretence of representing costs for “technical supervision” and “security integrated and logistic support services.”

Specifically, the defendants were accused of:

Obtaining N839,780,738.90 on January 13, 2014, through Broad Waters Resource Nigeria Limited.

Obtaining N1,629,250,000 on February 12, 2014, through Global Offshore Marine Limited.
The charges were brought under Sections 8(a) and 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.

They are also accused of criminal breach of trust under Sections 311 and 315 of the Penal Code for allegedly authorising transfers of the funds while exercising official control over contracts awarded to I-SEC Security Nigeria Ltd.

Both defendants had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The case now hinges on whether plea negotiations will succeed or the court will proceed to a full trial. Read More

‘I Couldn’t Get a Job Because of My Size’ — Nkubi Opens Up on Stigma, Trolls and Fatherhood

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‘I Couldn’t Get a Job Because of My Size’ — Nkubi Opens Up on Stigma, Trolls and Fatherhood






Actor and content creator Victor Udochukwu Nwaogu, popularly known as Nkubi, has shared his painful experiences with stigma and rejection due to his physique, revealing how discrimination shaped his career path.


Speaking during a recent podcast interview, Nkubi disclosed that he turned to acting after struggling to secure employment following secondary school because of his size.


“As a child, you barely understood your reality, but you knew you were different from every regular person,” he said. “When the reality of being a little person first hit me was when I finished secondary school, and I couldn’t secure minor jobs like others.”


Turning Rejection Into Opportunity
Nkubi explained that while many of his peers found casual jobs after school, he was repeatedly overlooked, a reality that forced him to explore alternative paths.

Acting and content creation eventually became a platform where he could express himself and build a career despite societal bias.
Daughter Targeted by Trolls
The actor also revealed that his daughter is now facing similar prejudice, with internet trolls making derogatory comments about her size.


Although he and his wife anticipated the possibility of online bullying, Nkubi admitted that the hurt remains difficult to bear.


Wife Rejects Doctor’s Advice
In a deeply personal revelation, Nkubi’s wife disclosed that a doctor once advised her to get pregnant by another man to avoid having a child with dwarfism — advice she firmly rejected.


The couple’s story has sparked conversations about discrimination, medical ethics and the emotional toll of body shaming.


Nkubi’s candid reflections highlight the persistent stigma faced by people living with dwarfism, while underscoring the resilience required to thrive in the face of prejudice.

14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand

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14 Reasons Nigerians Should Own Property with the Trusted Real Estate Brand

As part of activities marking its 14 years of transforming Nigeria’s real estate landscape, Adron Homes and Properties has unveiled 14 compelling reasons why individuals and families should consider owning property with the company reinforcing its commitment to accessible, stylish, and sustainable homeownership.

In a statement released by the company, Adron Homes described property ownership not just as an investment but as a strategic lifestyle decision rooted in long-term security, wealth creation, and community development. The company noted that over the past 14 years, it has remained consistent in providing affordable housing solutions while delivering well-planned estates that cater to diverse income levels.

According to the statement, Adron Homes’ success is anchored in its strong value proposition, which ranges from affordable pricing and flexible payment structures to prime estate locations nationwide. The company emphasized that its gated communities are designed with security, modern architectural standards, and structured infrastructure that ensure comfort and functionality for residents.

Adron Homes further highlighted its transparent documentation process and verified property titles, which have continued to boost investor confidence and encourage long-term property ownership among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. The company added that its developments are intentionally designed to promote thriving communities, environmental sustainability, and long-term urban planning.

With a proven track record of helping thousands of customers achieve their property dreams, Adron Homes reaffirmed its commitment to delivering high-value investments that appreciate over time while maintaining strong customer service support from initial inquiry to allocation and beyond.

The organisation also noted its culture of appreciation for clients, partners, and staff through consistent reward programmes and promotional incentives. This strategy has strengthened loyalty and deepened engagement across its growing customer base.

Reflecting on its 14-year journey, Adron Homes reiterated that its mission goes beyond selling land and houses; it focuses on building vibrant communities where families thrive, investments grow, and futures are secured. The company encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of its flexible ownership opportunities, stressing that the best time to invest in property is now.

As it continues to expand its footprint across Nigeria, Adron Homes remains committed to innovation, excellence, and redefining the real estate experience through sustainable developments that stand the test of time.

NNPCL Announces Four-Day Gas Supply Disruption as Seplat Schedules Maintenance

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NNPCL Announces Four-Day Gas Supply Disruption as Seplat Schedules Maintenance





The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has alerted the public to an expected temporary reduction in gas supply as Seplat Energy Plc embarks on routine maintenance of its production facilities.


In a statement issued Thursday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Andrew Odeh, disclosed that Seplat Energy — a joint venture partner of NNPC Ltd and a major supplier to the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC) pipeline network — will carry out the maintenance from February 12 to February 15, 2026.


According to Odeh, the scheduled exercise is part of standard industry safety and asset integrity measures aimed at ensuring the continued efficiency, reliability, and safe operation of critical gas infrastructure.


NNPCL explained that such periodic maintenance is necessary to sustain optimal system performance, strengthen operational resilience, and reduce the likelihood of unexpected outages.


During the four-day period, gas supply into the NGIC pipeline network will be temporarily reduced. The development may affect some power generation companies that rely on the supply, potentially leading to a modest dip in electricity generation within the timeframe.


NNPC Ltd and Seplat Energy assured that they are working closely to ensure the maintenance is completed safely and on schedule.

Meanwhile, NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML) is engaging alternative gas suppliers to cushion anticipated supply shortfalls and maintain network stability.


Full gas supply into the NGIC system is expected to resume immediately after the maintenance is completed, allowing affected power generation companies to return to normal operations.

2027: Cubana Chief Priest Dumps Obi Camp, Backs Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid

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2027: Cubana Chief Priest Dumps Obi Camp, Backs Tinubu’s Re-Election Bid







Socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Cubana Chief Priest, has publicly declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election, marking a significant political shift from his stance in the 2023 presidential race.


In a post shared on Instagram, the celebrity barman posted a video of branded campaign buses and disclosed that he had been attending late-night strategy meetings aimed at mobilising support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.


According to him, the objective is to strengthen the President’s popularity in the Southeast and secure overwhelming support from the region.


“Our minds are made up. The goal is simple: deliver @officialasiwajubat,” he wrote, adding that removing Tinubu from office in 2027 would be “a total impossibility.”


Chief Priest described the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the “surest odd” politically and urged supporters to align with what he called the most viable platform ahead of the next general election.


He also suggested that internal battles within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its presidential ticket could weaken the opposition.


“In politics, you must throw away sentiments. APC na the surest odd. No party comes close, it’s so clear,” he added.


The endorsement represents a notable departure from his previous support for Labour Party candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential election.


His declaration adds to growing conversations around celebrity influence and early political realignments ahead of the 2027 polls.

NAF Chief Issues Stern Warning After Coup Plot: “We Will Not Tolerate Indiscipline

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NAF Chief Issues Stern Warning After Coup Plot: “We Will Not Tolerate Indiscipline







The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has issued a strong warning to personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), cautioning against any form of indiscipline capable of undermining Nigeria’s democratic order.


Addressing Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and Unit Commanders at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, Aneke reaffirmed the Air Force’s loyalty to the democratically elected government.


“The Nigerian Air Force remains loyal to the democratically-elected government. We will not tolerate indiscipline or unlawful conduct within our ranks,” he declared.


His warning comes in the wake of an alleged coup attempt confirmed in January by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ). The plot, reportedly targeting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, has led to investigations implicating 16 officers who are now set to face a court-martial.


In a statement posted on the service’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the CAS condemned any attempt to subvert constitutional order and reiterated that the Air Force leadership would take firm action against erring personnel.


Aneke stressed the Service’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution and democratic governance.


Call for Unity and Professionalism
Reflecting on his first 100 days in office, the CAS described the meeting with senior commanders as “a vital platform for reflection,” urging them to pursue operational excellence anchored on unity, discipline, and strategic clarity.


Following recent operational visits across various commands, Aneke commended personnel for their sacrifices and dedication, but noted that the current security climate demands renewed focus and collective resolve.


“Together, we will continue to build a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces,” he said.


Security Challenges and Election Neutrality
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the volatile global and regional security environment, pointing to instability in the Sahel, the spread of extremist violence, and shifting geopolitical alignments as factors directly impacting Nigeria’s defence posture.


While acknowledging security improvements in some regions, he warned that insurgency, banditry, and emerging extremist threats still require sustained military pressure and adaptive strategies.


With elections on the horizon, the CAS reminded commanders of the need to maintain absolute professionalism and political neutrality.


As Nigeria navigates evolving security threats and political transitions, the Air Force chief’s message was clear: discipline, loyalty, and constitutional order remain non-negotiable within the ranks.

“I’m Not a Womaniser, I’m a Lover Boy” — 2Baba Opens Up on Misconceptions, Fatherhood, Life with Natasha

Lukman Omikunle
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“I’m Not a Womaniser, I’m a Lover Boy” — 2Baba Opens Up on Misconceptions, Fatherhood, Life with Natasha

2Baba says he is “not a womaniser” but a lover boy as he opens up on fatherhood, regrets about his eight children and public views about his wife

“I’m Not a Womaniser, I’m a Lover Boy” — 2Baba Clears the Air on Private Life

Nigerian music legend Innocent “2Baba” Idibia has pushed back against long-standing public perceptions about his private life, declaring that he is not a womaniser but simply misunderstood

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Voice of Nigeria, the award-winning artiste addressed what he described as the most persistent misconception about him.

“The biggest misconception about me is that I’m a womaniser. I like women; I’m just straightforward. But I’m a lover boy. I love hard,” 2Baba said.

Beyond the headlines and celebrity gossip, the Afrobeats pioneer turned emotional while discussing fatherhood — a role he described as both a blessing and a personal challenge.

2Baba revealed he is now a father of eight and admitted that balancing superstardom with parenting has not been easy.

“I have eight kids now. I feel blessed and happy, but the sadness comes from the fact that I haven’t gotten to spend the type of time I should have spent with them collectively. It does something to me sometimes.”

Despite his demanding career, he described his children as his greatest source of pride.

“They’re amazing, brilliant people,” he said. “I just wish I was there more. It touches me from all corners.”

The singer also addressed public commentary about his wife, Natasha, particularly claims that she exerts excessive influence over him.

According to 2Baba, much of the public narrative does not reflect the reality of their relationship.

“Everybody has a say in everybody’s business now. Sometimes people say very nasty things.

“You grow thick skin, but sometimes it gets to you. Reality is reality, she’s a brilliant woman, a strong woman.”

His remarks suggest a protective stance toward his wife amid ongoing public scrutiny.

Away from the stage, 2Baba painted a picture of a far more reserved personality than fans might expect.

“My profession doesn’t permit me to be shy, but I’m actually a very shy person.

“Sometimes I just want to be alone and chill. Other times I want to hang out. I like nature; I have my moments.”

For a man whose music has defined generations across Africa, the interview reveals a softer, introspective side — one grappling with fame, fatherhood, love, and legacy.

As 2Baba himself puts it, beneath the spotlight and speculation, he remains simply “a lover boy” who loves hard. Read More

“They Don’t Have a Buhari or Tinubu” – Datti Baba-Ahmed Throws Shade at ADC Coalition, Predicts Ticket Chaos

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“They Don’t Have a Buhari or Tinubu” – Datti Baba-Ahmed Throws Shade at ADC Coalition, Predicts Ticket Chaos

Labour Party 2023 VP candidate Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed questions ADC coalition’s viability for 2027, saying it lacks political heavyweights like Buhari or Tinubu

2027: Datti Baba-Ahmed Dismisses ADC Coalition Strength, Says They Lacks Unifying Figures Like Buhari or Tinubu

Labour Party’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Datti Baba-Ahmed, has delivered a blunt assessment of the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition, warning that it lacks the kind of unifying political heavyweight needed to mount a serious challenge in 2027.

In a candid interview on Trust TV, Baba-Ahmed argued that the ADC does not possess figures with the stature, influence, or political sagacity of former President Muhammadu Buhari or incumbent President Bola Tinubu.

“They don’t have a Buhari or a Tinubu in the ADC. Tinubu has a lot of sense. They don’t have it in ADC,” he said.

He cautioned that the coalition’s internal fault lines could quickly surface once a presidential candidate emerges, predicting that several prominent names would struggle to secure broad acceptance.

“Because today, if Atiku wins the ticket, others have a problem with that. If Obi or Amaechi wins the ticket, other candidates will have a problem with it,” Baba-Ahmed stated.

“They don’t have a Buhari in ADC,” he reiterated.

Baba-Ahmed went on to commend President Tinubu’s political craftsmanship, describing him as a focused, resourced, and highly experienced operator.

“Tinubu was focused, resourced, determined. And of course, he has a lot of sense and experience that he applied into this,” he said.

Drawing a historical parallel, he referenced former President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2011 re-election, which he said rested partly on an informal understanding with northern political stakeholders that Jonathan would not seek a second term in 2015.

“They don’t have a Jonathan in the game. Why do I mean by Jonathan? Jonathan was re-elected in 2011 with the promise to northern elements that he wouldn’t contest 2015.

“So there was a promise issue, and the north felt it was time to go back to the north,” he explained.

Baba-Ahmed suggested these structural weaknesses—absence of a dominant unifying figure, potential ticket disputes, and lack of binding political promises—could severely limit the ADC coalition’s ability to coalesce into a formidable opposition force.

He hinted that a deeper discussion of the coalition’s challenges would require more time, but left little doubt about his skepticism regarding its electoral prospects in 2027. Read More

N868m Fraud Trial: Ex-Acting AGF Nwabuoku Admits Authorising Secret Transfers to Private Companies

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N868m Fraud Trial: Ex-Acting AGF Nwabuoku Admits Authorising Secret Transfers to Private Companies

Former Acting Accountant-General Chukwunyere Nwabuoku admits in court he authorised transfers of funds to four companies

N868m Fraud Trial: Shocking Admission in Court – Former Acting Accountant-General Confesses to Releasing Millions for ‘Classified Purposes’

In a dramatic turnaround during his ongoing trial, former Acting Accountant-General of the Federation Chukwunyere Anamekwe Nwabuoku has admitted under cross-examination that he confessed to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) about authorising the transfer of funds from the Ministry of Defence to four private companies for what he termed “classified purposes.”

The admission, made on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, directly contradicts Nwabuoku’s earlier testimony where he denied any prior knowledge or dealings with the companies—Temeo Synergy Concept Limited, Turge Global Investment Limited, Laptev Bridge, and Arafura Transnational Afro Limited—claiming he only learned of them in court.

Prosecution counsel Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, confronted the defendant with his own ICPC statement dated February 2, 2025, in which he explicitly admitted that, as Director of Finance at the Ministry of Defence, he oversaw the transfers for classified security purposes that could not be publicly disclosed.

The prosecution further argued that no evidence exists to prove the funds—totaling N868,465,000—were used for legitimate security needs, describing the transactions as unlawful.

Adding to the intrigue, while insisting he purchased his residence personally from legitimate earnings, Nwabuoku identified a N64 million cheque issued by Mdavi Limited to City Gate Homes for the property acquisition.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is prosecuting Nwabuoku on an amended nine-count charge of money laundering involving the sum of N868,465,000.

Nwabuoku has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

After hearing arguments, Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter to February 27, 2026, for the adoption of written addresses.

The case continues to draw intense scrutiny as it highlights alleged misuse of classified defence funds during Nwabuoku’s tenure before his brief stint as Acting AGF in 2022. Read More

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