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SDP Knocks Senate Leadership, Demands Real-Time Electronic Transmission of Election Results

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has accused the leadership of the 10th Senate of resisting critical electoral reforms, insisting that Nigerians overwhelmingly demand a clear legislative mandate for real-time electronic transmission of election results.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, the party expressed concern over what it described as “unimaginable and unpatriotic resistance” to reforms contained in the proposed Electoral Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2026.

The SDP alleged that ongoing attempts to weaken provisions for electronic transmission of results run contrary to the popular will expressed by Nigerians during nationwide public hearings conducted in 2025.

According to the party, citizens across the country had unequivocally demanded reforms that would strengthen transparency and restore confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process, especially in the wake of controversies that trailed the 2023 general elections.

The party identified the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) as critical tools for credible elections, noting that they help reduce human error and prevent manipulation of results during manual collation and transportation.

“It is no longer deniable that the majority of our current senators who are true patriots, as well as the electoral umpire itself, want Nigeria to move forward in ensuring the integrity of our elections,” the statement said, citing what it described as the positive disposition of the new leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The SDP, however, warned that what it termed “self-serving cabals” within the Senate leadership must not be allowed to undermine the country’s democratic progress.

It demanded that the new Electoral Act 2026 must contain “an unambiguous legislative mandate” compelling the real-time electronic transmission of results by polling unit presiding officers, to prevent legal ambiguities and future manipulation.

The party argued that INEC has demonstrated the technical capacity and infrastructure to transmit results electronically and should be allowed to discharge its responsibilities without political interference.

Calling for civic vigilance, the SDP urged citizens, civil society organisations and pro-democracy groups to resist any attempt to dilute reforms aimed at strengthening electoral credibility.

“The nation cannot afford a repeat of the credibility challenges witnessed in 2023,” the party stated, adding that safeguarding the integrity of the 2027 general elections must be treated as a national priority.

The statement was signed by Aiyenigba and dated February 6, 2026.

Judges Get New Homes as Wike Nears Completion of Court Projects, Dismisses Independence Fears

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that major judicial infrastructure projects initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are nearing completion, marking what he described as an unprecedented intervention to improve the welfare, security and independence of the judiciary.

 

Wike, who spoke after inspecting several judicial projects in Abuja on Thursday, said the initiatives were in line with a clear directive by President Tinubu to reduce the accommodation burden on judges and justices and provide a conducive environment for them to carry out their constitutional duties.

According to the minister, one of the flagship projects the Court of Appeal Division with a distinct administrative headquarters is already about 85 to 90 per cent completed.

 

“After the inauguration of Mr. President in May 2023 and our assumption of office in August, one of his clear directives was that we must look seriously at the welfare of the judiciary, especially accommodation and the environment in which they work,” Wike said.

 

He revealed that the FCT Administration, through the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), is also constructing 40 residential houses for judges: 20 for the FCT High Court, 10 for the Court of Appeal and 10 for the Federal High Court, with similar housing planned for the National Industrial Court.

 

Wike described the development as historic, noting that it was the first time any Nigerian government had deliberately intervened to provide permanent, purpose-built accommodation for judicial officers.

 

“When you look around where some judges and justices live, sometimes you don’t even know who their neighbours are whether criminals or people whose cases they are handling. That is not healthy. But now, there will be no renting of houses. They will have their own accommodation, very befitting and in a good environment,” he stated.

 

The minister further disclosed that special official residences, known as “Houses of Courts,” are also under construction for heads of courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, the President of the National Industrial Court, the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court.

 

“We believe that with the speed of work we are seeing, by June or July, these projects would be ready for Mr. President to formally hand over to the judiciary,” Wike said.

 

Responding to criticisms by some groups who claim the projects could compromise judicial independence, Wike dismissed the allegations as unfounded.

 

“There is nothing you do that critics will not criticise. Before now, people complained that judges had no befitting places to stay. Now that government is providing it, they say it is an attempt to buy them. How many people can you buy?” he asked.

 

He stressed that democracy cannot function without a strong and independent judiciary, adding that improving judges’ welfare should not be misconstrued as undue influence.

 

“You can’t talk about democracy without talking about the judiciary. You also can’t expect them to do their work effectively when they don’t have decent places to live. Even when funds are released to them, it is still the executive that provides those funds,” Wike noted.

 

On the delayed completion of the Court of Appeal complex, which was earlier scheduled for commissioning last year, the minister attributed the setback to heavy rainfall.

 

“The rains last year were something else. That affected the timeline. But most of the materials have been ordered and the project is almost completed. We believe it will be inaugurated during the third year of Mr. President’s tenure,” he said.

 

Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of work, reaffirming the commitment of the Tinubu administration to strengthening the judiciary as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s democracy.

Abuja @50: Wike Applauds FCDA Boss, Promises More Roads, Projects for Communities

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

As Abuja gears up to celebrate 50 years as Nigeria’s Federal Capital, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has praised the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, for what he described as purposeful and result-driven leadership in fast-tracking infrastructure development across the territory.

Wike spoke in Abuja when the management of the FCDA paid him a courtesy visit in his capacity as Chairman of the FCDA Board. He said the ongoing transformation of Abuja was a product of strong leadership and commitment within the system.

“Today, everybody is saying there is massive infrastructural development. If that was not made possible, we would still be hanging around and saying nothing is going on,” the minister said, stressing the need to appreciate those who laid the foundation for the progress being recorded.

The FCT minister revealed that a committee would soon be set up to plan activities to mark Abuja @50, which will coincide with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third year in office. According to him, the celebration would provide an opportunity to showcase Abuja’s growth and development over the decades.

Wike commended the Acting FCDA Executive Secretary for aligning with the vision of the present administration, insisting that leadership and performance, not sentiment, determine success in public office.

“When you have the right leadership, you get results. Since your appointment, you have shown that you are up and doing. If you are not, you won’t be there. There is no two ways about it,” he declared.

He also applauded the management and staff of the FCDA for their cooperation, noting that teamwork had played a key role in the achievements recorded so far. He urged public officers to remain focused on service delivery, reminding them that public office comes with responsibilities, not just privileges.

Expressing concern over neglect of some satellite communities, Wike described the situation in Tudun Madaki as “shocking,” citing poor access roads and lack of basic infrastructure. He assured residents that the ongoing road project linking the area to Zuba would open up the communities and improve their access to the city.

“We talk too much about the city and forget the communities. Government must reach the villages and make people feel its impact,” he said, adding that with President Tinubu’s support, the FCT Administration would continue to open up underserved areas.

Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Dauda, presented a detailed account of Abuja’s development journey over the past 50 years, highlighting what he described as unprecedented achievements under the current administration. He said the FCT had witnessed its most productive period since August 2023, with dozens of projects completed and commissioned.

“About nine projects were commissioned in 2024, 17 in 2025, and by 2026, we are likely to hit 50 projects,” Dauda said, praising President Tinubu and Wike for their leadership and reaffirming FCDA’s commitment to building Abuja into a world-class capital city as it marks its golden jubilee.

Wike Inspects Key Abuja Projects, Assures Completion by May, Says Politics Won’t Stall Development

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that major infrastructure projects across Abuja will be completed and inaugurated by the end of May, declaring that political activities, including the forthcoming area council elections, will not slow down development.

Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, Wike described the pace and quality of work as “very encouraging,” stressing that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is being translated into tangible results on the ground.

“We are happy with what we have seen. By the end of May, this project will be handed over, and it is one of the projects lined up for inauguration during Mr President’s third year in office,” the minister said.

Wike first inspected the Institutional Research Road, a strategic link road connecting Nile University, the Body of Benchers and other institutions, which serves as an alternative route to the old EFCC road. He noted that the road, when completed, would significantly ease traffic flow in the area.

According to him, the contractor has committed to completing and handing over the project by the end of May.

From there, the minister moved to the Body of Benchers extension building, where he disclosed that construction work is almost 80 per cent completed.

“The work is well done. What is left now is basically landscaping,” Wike said.

The inspection also covered major road projects stretching from Euclid Road through Bright Road down to Tungan Madaki, covering not less than seven kilometres. Wike highlighted key infrastructure along the corridor, including a large conference hall and a major bridge with four spans, describing the development as a major breakthrough for communities that had long suffered neglect.

“You can imagine what these communities have gone through. It is unimaginable. But we thank God that we now have the opportunity to open up these areas,” he said.

Wike explained that the project also addressed long-standing demands by local villagers for compensation and inclusion, after initial plans focused only on a second carriageway.

“They demanded that if compensation was to be paid for crops, they should also be linked to the city. And that is what we are doing today — a promise made, a promise fulfilled,” he stated.

He added that contractors have given assurances that the major road projects would be completed between the end of May and early June.

Reacting to concerns that political activities could disrupt project execution, Wike dismissed such fears, insisting that governance must remain people-focused.

“Politics is different. You have to serve the people. Politics has its own time, and the work will continue. Politics will not affect what we are doing,” he said.

He emphasized that constant supervision and field inspections by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) leadership were key to sustaining progress.

“The only way people will be happy and believe that the Renewed Hope Agenda is real is by delivering these projects. That is exactly what we are doing,” Wike added.

FCTA, IHS Storm Gwagwalada With Free Gas Cylinders, Insurance to Save Residents From Killer Smoke

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

ABUJA — In a bold move to tackle indoor air pollution and its deadly health consequences, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), in partnership with IHS Towers Nigeria, on Wednesday rolled out free gas cylinders, burners and insurance cover to vulnerable residents of Gwagwalada Area Council under the Breathe Clean Air–Abuja initiative.

The Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, who led the exercise, said the programme was designed to end the dangerous dependence on firewood, charcoal and kerosene, which she described as silent killers in many Nigerian homes.

According to her, smoke from dirty cooking fuels is responsible for widespread cases of cough, asthma, pneumonia, eye problems and other respiratory illnesses, particularly among women, children, the elderly and small-scale food vendors.

“Too many households still rely on firewood, charcoal and kerosene for cooking. These fuels pollute indoor air and pose serious health risks,” Fasawe said. “Our goal is to reduce indoor air pollution, protect lives and help vulnerable families switch safely to clean cooking.”

She explained that the project, being implemented across all six Area Councils of the FCT, goes beyond the distribution of gas cylinders, as beneficiaries are also enrolled in an insurance scheme covering fire outbreaks, explosions, user injury, third-party liability, theft and access to basic healthcare.

“This is not just about gas cylinders. Each beneficiary is protected with insurance to build confidence and remove fear associated with gas usage, while improving overall health and wellbeing,” she added.

To prevent beneficiaries from returning to harmful cooking methods, Dr. Fasawe disclosed that gas refill vouchers were also provided to support sustained use and long-term behaviour change.

She noted that the initiative prioritises women-led households, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other vulnerable groups, while helping families save time, reduce healthcare costs and improve safety at home.

The mandate secretary urged community leaders to ensure proper use of the cylinders, discourage resale and promptly report safety concerns to strengthen the programme’s impact.

“With collective effort, clean air, safer cooking and healthier living can become a reality for Gwagwalada and the entire FCT,” she said.

Also speaking, Chief Corporate Services Officer of IHS Nigeria, Mr. Dapo Otunla, described the initiative as a natural fit with the company’s sustainability agenda, stressing that it aligns with its commitment to people, environment and economic growth.

He said IHS Nigeria, a subsidiary of IHS Towers Group, operates over 16,000 telecom towers and more than 16,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables across the country, making it Nigeria’s largest communications infrastructure provider.

“This initiative is close to our heart. It promotes cleaner energy, reduces carbon emissions and supports the health of our host communities,” Otunla said.

He expressed satisfaction that the programme was reaching grassroots communities and improving the lives of the most vulnerable residents in the FCT.

“We hope the success of Abuja Breathe Clean Air will encourage nationwide adoption. We also call on other corporate organisations to join hands with us to ensure cleaner, healthier cities for Nigerians,” he added.

The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and beneficiaries, marking another major step in Abuja’s drive towards cleaner air and safer living.

Terrorism Allegations Rock Abuja as Ex-AGF Malami, Son Land in DSS Custody

By
Ola Akinola
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0

 

ABUJA — The immediate past Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and his son, Abdulazeez, were on Tuesday arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged terrorism-related offences and unlawful possession of firearms.

The duo were docked before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on a five-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS), bordering on alleged abetting of terrorism financing and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

After taking their pleas, Malami and his son, who both pleaded not guilty to all the charges, were ordered to be remanded in the custody of the DSS pending the hearing and determination of their bail applications.

Counsel to the DSS, Calistus Eze, urged the court to fix a date for the commencement of trial. However, defence counsel, Shuaibu Arua, appealed to the court to exercise its discretion by allowing an oral application for bail, noting that the defendants had already spent about two weeks in custody and were brought to court from a hospital.

Justice Abdulmalik, in her ruling, held that the court is a court of record and directed the defendants to file formal bail applications in line with due process.

The trial judge subsequently adjourned the matter to February 20 for the commencement of trial.

According to the charges, Malami is accused of allegedly failing to prosecute suspected terrorism financiers during his tenure as Attorney General, despite case files reportedly submitted to his office. Both defendants are also accused of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition at their residence in Kebbi State without valid licences, offences said to be contrary to the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2004.

The defendants are expected to return to court on the adjourned date as legal fireworks begin in what is shaping up to be a high-profile terrorism-related trial.

Wike Tours Abuja Projects, Promises August Delivery, Says FCT Wearing New Look

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of ongoing road and bridge projects across Abuja, assuring residents that several major projects will be completed and inaugurated by August.

Wike spoke during an inspection tour of key infrastructure projects in the Katampe–Giri axis and the Ossexx area of the nation’s capital, describing the level of work as impressive and in line with expectations.
“We are quite impressed with the quality of work being carried out. The contractors are doing very well, and by August, some of these projects will be ready for inauguration,” the minister said.

He disclosed that the Katampe road project in the Giri area is among those lined up for inauguration to mark President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second and third year in office, while the Ossexx bridges and connecting roads are expected to be delivered as part of activities marking the Federal Capital Territory’s anniversary.

According to Wike, the road networks under construction will ease movement and boost economic activities, particularly for informal sector operators and traders who rely heavily on access roads.

The minister commended construction firm, CGC, for maintaining high standards on the projects and assured that the FCT Administration would sustain strict monitoring of all contractors to ensure timely delivery.
He added that inspection tours would continue in other parts of Abuja, including areas where Chinese construction firm, CCCC, is handling major road projects.

Speaking on the Golden Jubilee of the FCT, Wike said Abuja has witnessed significant infrastructural growth in its 50 years of existence, noting that the transformation has become more visible in the last two and a half years.

“A lot has changed in terms of infrastructure. We are following the Abuja Master Plan, and the city’s landscape is changing for the better,” he said.

On the recent labour union agitation in the FCT, the minister said the issues had been resolved through dialogue, adding that normal activities had resumed.
“At the end of the day, there is no winner and no loser. It is all about ensuring that Abuja continues to move forward,” Wike said.

FCTA Declares War on Snakebite Deaths, Promises Antivenom , Rapid Emergency Response

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has vowed to tackle the growing menace of snakebite-related deaths, assuring residents of ready antivenom, faster emergency response, and stricter healthcare standards across the territory.

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while expressing condolences to the family of Ms. Ifunanya Lucy Nwangene, who tragically died from neurotoxic complications caused by a snakebite.

Describing the death as “deeply painful and preventable,” Fasawe said snakebites remain a major public health threat that can be mitigated with awareness, proper first aid, and prompt medical intervention.

She warned that Nigeria is home to highly venomous snakes including cobras, vipers, and puff adders, urging FCT residents to adopt preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing on farms, avoiding tall grasses and dark areas at night, clearing debris around homes, sealing entry points, and never handling snakes.

Fasawe also outlined the correct first-aid measures for snakebite victims: stay calm, immobilise the affected limb below heart level, remove constrictive items, gently clean the wound, and rush to a hospital for antivenom. She cautioned against dangerous practices such as cutting or sucking the wound, applying tourniquets, ice, or herbal remedies.

On treatment and emergency care, Fasawe assured that polyvalent and multivalent antivenoms are readily available in all FCTA-owned hospitals and health facilities, centrally stored at Abuja Central Medical Stores, and managed to ensure quality and cold-chain integrity.

Prompt treatment is critical, she said, noting that antivenom is most effective when administered early, while late intervention after neurotoxic symptoms appear may not guarantee recovery.

To improve response time, the FCTA has expanded road networks and deployed 12 ambulances fully equipped for emergencies. Hospitals in the territory also provide comprehensive snakebite management including antivenom administration, patient monitoring, supportive care, intensive care, airway management, blood transfusions, and coagulation monitoring where needed.

Fasawe further warned that all public and private healthcare facilities must strictly follow approved clinical protocols, emphasizing that negligent facilities would face sanctions.

Residents are advised to contact the FCT Emergency Medical System and Ambulance Services via 090157892931 or 090157892932 during emergencies.

“The FCTA remains resolute in strengthening emergency systems, enforcing quality healthcare standards, and protecting the lives of all residents of the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.

Half of Nigerian Minors Drinking Alcohol – NAFDAC Survey

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Shock findings from a national survey show that more than half of Nigeria’s minors and underaged children buy and drink alcohol, raising fresh alarm over youth abuse of alcohol.

The survey, sponsored by the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) and conducted with NAFDAC, covered six states across the country. Out of 1,788 respondents, 54.3% admitted buying alcohol themselves, often in sachets or small PET bottles. Friends, relatives, and social gatherings were other major sources.

While most minors and underaged children drink occasionally, some consume alcohol daily or weekly, highlighting a growing public health concern. Rivers, Lagos, and Kaduna topped the list for self-purchase in sachets and bottles.

NAFDAC DG Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye warned that banning small pack sizes could curb underage drinking. She urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to act fast to protect children.

“Consumption of alcohol by minors should raise alarm for everyone in the community,” she said.

The agency says the fight against underage drinking is far from over, calling for stricter regulation, awareness, and vigilance nationwide.

 

FCT workers to resume as Wike, labour resolve industrial dispute

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Abuja — Workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are to resume duties immediately following the resolution of the industrial dispute between the FCT Administration and organised labour.

This followed an overnight conciliatory meeting between the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).

The meeting, convened at the instance of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the FCT, Mohammed Bomoi, began at 11:45 p.m. on Monday and ended at 3:51 a.m. on Tuesday after extensive deliberations.

In a joint circular dated February 3, 2026, the labour unions said all issues raised by members of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) were exhaustively discussed and resolved.

Consequently, all JUAC members and affiliates of the NLC and TUC working in the Ministry of the Federal Capital Territory (MFCT) have been directed to resume work immediately.

The unions also urged their affiliates to comply strictly with the directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony, noting that the resolution was reached in good faith.

As part of the agreement, the FCT Minister assured organised labour of mutual respect and sustained engagement. Both parties further agreed that no worker would be victimised for participating in the industrial action, while all cases pending at the National Industrial Court (NIC) in relation to the dispute are to be withdrawn.

The circular was signed on behalf of JUAC and the workers by the Secretary General of the TUC, Comrade General N.A. Toro, PhD, mni, and the Acting General Secretary of the NLC, Comrade Benson Upah.

 

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