Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Tag: 2027 elections

  • Senate Reopens Electoral Act Talks Amid National Outcry Over Data Transmission

    Senate Reopens Electoral Act Talks Amid National Outcry Over Data Transmission

    In an update published by The Punch, the Nigerian Senate is set to convene an emergency plenary session today, February 10, 2026, to address the heated controversy surrounding the 2026 Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The legislative move follows a week of intense public backlash after lawmakers removed the requirement for “real-time” electronic transmission of election results, a decision that critics argue could undermine the transparency of the 2027 general elections.

    The session, directed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, aims to harmonize the Upper Chamber’s position with that of the House of Representatives. Tension has mounted as civil society organizations and opposition leaders, including Peter Obi, led “Occupy National Assembly” protests in Abuja to demand a reversal of the clause. Lawmakers are expected to deliberate on whether to reinstate the “real-time” terminology to restore public confidence in the electoral process.

    Beyond the electoral dispute, the Senate is also facing internal shifts following the recent loss of two members and the appointment of another to a diplomatic role. This emergency sitting is viewed as a critical moment for the 10th Assembly to prove its commitment to legislative integrity and respond to the demands of a restive citizenry.

    Validating reports from Channels Television and Daily Post confirm the legislative urgency. Channels Television noted that “security operatives have been placed on high alert around the National Assembly complex as protesters gather,” while Daily Post reported that the Senate Spokesman stated the chamber is “not averse to public criticism and will resolve the issue in the interest of the nation.”

    Echotitbits take: The Senate’s decision to backtrack and hold an emergency session suggests that the pressure from “Occupy National Assembly” is working. If the “real-time” transmission clause is not reinstated, expect a further breakdown in trust between the youth-led electorate and the ruling class ahead of 2027.

    Source: TribuneOnline – https://tribuneonlineng.com/updated-electoral-act-senate-summons-emergency-plenary/, February 10, 2026

    Photo credit: TribuneOnline

  • Senate Under Fire as Stakeholders Reject Changes to Electoral Act

    Senate Under Fire as Stakeholders Reject Changes to Electoral Act

    In an update published by Premium Times, civil society organizations and political analysts have voiced a strong rejection of the Senate’s recent vote on the Electoral Act amendment bill. The upper chamber’s decision to decline provisions for the mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results has sparked fears that the 2027 general elections could be compromised, as critics argue that digital transparency is essential for credible outcomes.

    The legislative move has been described as a setback for Nigeria’s democratic evolution, with experts warning that it risks erasing the progress made during the 2023 polls. Opponents of the Senate’s stance argue that without a legal mandate for electronic results, the window for manual manipulation during collation remains dangerously wide.

    This growing outcry was corroborated by Daily Post, where analyst Mahdi Shehu stated, “The Senators have abandoned the very reasons Nigerians elected them,” emphasizing that the move is an “assault” on the electorate. Similarly, The Nation reported that legal experts are already preparing for a constitutional challenge, with one lawyer noting that “the law must reflect the technological realities of the 21st century to ensure every vote counts.”

    Echotitbits take: This is a high-stakes political tug-of-war. By stripping away mandatory electronic transmission, the National Assembly is essentially opting for a “status quo” that favors established political structures over grassroots transparency. Expect this to become a primary rallying cry for opposition parties and the “Obidient” movement as the 2027 election cycle begins to heat up.

    Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/854928-csos-reject-senate-vote-on-electoral-bill-warn-of-threat-to-credible-elections.html?tztc=1, February 7, 2026

    Photo credit: Premium Times

  • NNPP Dismisses Rumors of Kwankwaso’s Defection to Ruling Party

    NNPP Dismisses Rumors of Kwankwaso’s Defection to Ruling Party

    According to Daily Post reporting on February 1st, 2026, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has officially debunked viral reports claiming that its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is in talks to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party described the rumors as “mischievous fabrications” intended to create disharmony among opposition forces ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

    Reporting by Leadership News confirms that the NNPP leadership held an emergency meeting in Abuja to address the speculation. The party’s spokesperson clarified that Kwankwaso has not met with President Tinubu for political negotiations since 2024. “Our leader remains committed to the NNPP’s ideology and is focused on building a formidable alternative for Nigerians,” the spokesperson said in a direct quote.

    In an update published by The Nation, it was suggested that the rumors were fueled by recent defections of other high-profile opposition members to the APC. However, the paper quoted an NNPP chieftain who insisted: “Kwankwaso is a man of principle; he will not be intimidated or lured into a party that he has consistently criticized for its economic policies.”

    Echotitbits take: This denial is a classic move in the Nigerian political “chess game.” While the NNPP is currently holding its ground, the ongoing realignment of governors—including the rumored exit of Abba Yusuf—suggests that Kwankwaso may soon find himself politically isolated if he doesn’t secure a new alliance.

    Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/kwankwaso-never-discussed-defection-with-apc-nnpp/, February 1, 2026

    Photo credit: The Punch

  • Supreme Court Warns Judiciary Against Political Interference

    Supreme Court Warns Judiciary Against Political Interference

    In an update published by Daily Post, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has echoed a growing concern that Nigerian courts are “gradually becoming politicians” due to their frequent involvement in internal party disputes. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, called on the judiciary to maintain its independence and stay away from partisan matters to preserve public faith in the legal process. This comes as several high-profile political cases continue to saturate the Federal High Courts.

    The PDP also pointed to a “perception problem” where judicial officers are seen soliciting favors from government officials, which they claim compromises the appearance of neutrality. Legal experts have warned that if the judiciary does not self-regulate, the outcome of the 2027 elections could be decided in courtrooms rather than at the ballot box. This tension has led to calls for a reform that limits the types of political cases that can be brought before the bench.

    The issue was also covered by The Guardian and ThisDay. The Guardian reported that “the Chief Justice is facing pressure to issue new guidelines on political litigation,” while ThisDay noted that “civil society groups are planning a march for judicial independence.”

    Echotitbits take:

    The “judicialization of politics” is at an all-time high. When the court becomes the final arbiter of who leads a party, it loses its “impartial priest” status. Watch for a possible constitutional amendment aimed at limiting the court’s jurisdiction over internal party congresses.

    Source: The Guardian – https://guardian.ng/politics/adebayo-hails-supreme-court-victory-warns-inec-against-interference-in-sdp-affairs/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: The Guardian

  • INEC Formally Recognizes Nenadi Usman as Labour Party Leader

    INEC Formally Recognizes Nenadi Usman as Labour Party Leader

    According to Vanguard, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially uploaded the particulars of Senator Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwochocha as the legitimate Chairman and Secretary of the Labour Party (LP). This move follows a protracted leadership tussle that saw the party split into factions. By recognizing the Usman-led interim leadership on its website, INEC has complied with a Federal High Court judgment that invalidated the tenure of the previous executive led by Julius Abure.
    The interim leadership expressed its relief, stating that the move allows the party to focus on repositioning itself as a credible opposition ahead of future elections. The development is seen as a major win for the “Abia faction” of the party, supported by Governor Alex Otti, who has been vocal about the need for constitutional order within the LP. However, the opposing faction is yet to fully concede, leading to fears of further litigation.
    The recognition was also reported by Channels TV and Tribune. Channels TV noted that “the update on the INEC portal has effectively settled the administrative dispute,” while Tribune stated that “Labour Party members are being urged to unite under the newly recognized leadership.”
    Echotitbits take:
    Nenadi Usman’s recognition is a stabilizing force for the Labour Party, but the wounds from the leadership battle are deep. Watch for whether Peter Obi fully aligns with this new structure or if a third force emerges from the remnants of the Abure faction.

    Source: Channel TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/30/inec-recognises-nenadi-usman-led-lp-after-court-order/, January 31, 2026

    Photo credit: Channel TV

  • Senator Ndume Criticizes President Tinubu’s Inner Circle over “Lagos Elitism”

    Senator Ndume Criticizes President Tinubu’s Inner Circle over “Lagos Elitism”

    In an update published by Daily Post, Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) criticized President Bola Tinubu’s advisory circle, alleging it is disconnected from everyday realities. Speaking on Arise Television, Ndume said the President is surrounded by people who “only know Ikoyi and Victoria Island” and frequently travel abroad, while grassroots political voices are sidelined.

    He argued that Tinubu’s Lagos-era political strength was built on loyalists who have now been replaced by a newer technocratic clique—fueling internal party debate over influence and coalition management ahead of 2027. The Presidency has not issued a formal response.

    The Punch quoted Ndume’s complaint that some advisers “don’t know politics” and are often abroad, while The Nation framed the comments as reflecting unease within sections of the APC hierarchy.

    Echotitbits take: Ndume is functioning as a warning signal inside the APC. If the “Lagos-centric” perception hardens, the presidency may need visible rebalancing moves—appointments, engagement, and policy concessions—to keep Northern support consolidated for 2027.

    Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/100064638796212/posts/senator-ali-ndume-apcborno-south-has-again-criticised-president-bola-ahmed-tinub/1262561532575128/?_rdc=1&_rdr# 2026-01-29

    Photo Credit: Facebook

  • Amosun’s 68th Birthday Turns Into Political Power Play in Abeokuta

    Amosun’s 68th Birthday Turns Into Political Power Play in Abeokuta

    Former Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun marked his 68th birthday with a large gathering at the Ake Palace Pavilion in Abeokuta that effectively doubled as a political endorsement rally.

    Speaking to supporters, Amosun stressed that for political balance and national stability, the Southern part of Nigeria should complete an eight-year term in office through 2031, urging patience with the current administration amid economic pressures.

    The outing also included a philanthropic stop at the Ibara Correctional Centre, where Amosun and associates distributed essential supplies and relief materials to inmates.

    Echotitbits take: This rally is a calculated reminder that Amosun remains a kingmaker in Ogun State. By aligning himself so visibly with the President early in the 2027 conversation, he is positioning his political family for a major comeback, potentially setting the stage for a showdown with rival factions within the Ogun State APC.
    Source: Tribune – https://tribuneonlineng.com/power-rotation-best-arrangement-for-nigeria-amosun/  2026-01-26
    Photo Credit: Tribune

  • Amosun Rallies Mammoth Crowd in Abeokuta, Endorses Tinubu for 2027

    Amosun Rallies Mammoth Crowd in Abeokuta, Endorses Tinubu for 2027

    Former Ogun State Governor and Senator Ibikunle Amosun turned his 68th birthday celebration into a large-scale political rally at the Ake Palace Pavilion in Abeokuta on January 25, 2026. Addressing supporters, Amosun publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second-term bid ahead of 2027, arguing that the South should complete an eight-year tenure for stability and equity.

    Amosun described rotational presidency as a practical framework for national cohesion. He maintained that after eight years of Northern leadership, fairness requires that the presidency remain in the South until 2031, positioning Tinubu as the region’s consensus candidate. Despite reports of internal party friction and alleged boycott directives, the rally drew prominent APC figures and filled the pavilion to capacity.

    Beyond politics, the event reportedly included a humanitarian visit to the Ibara Correctional Centre, where Amosun’s team donated relief items. Additional reporting characterized the rally as a demonstration of enduring political influence, with Amosun urging Nigerians to exercise patience with ongoing reforms and to respect zoning in the interest of national stability.

    Echotitbits take: Amosun is effectively reminding everyone that he remains the “issue” in Ogun politics. By backing Tinubu so early and so publicly, he is carving out a strategic position for himself in the 2027 power map, likely to the chagrin of the current state administration.
    Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/2027-presidency-respect-rotational-agreement-amosun-tells-north/ 2026-01-26

    Photo Credit: Vanguard

  • APC Strengthens Northern Grip as Kano Governor Formally Joins Ruling Party

    APC Strengthens Northern Grip as Kano Governor Formally Joins Ruling Party

    Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has finalized his political transition from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He is scheduled to officially register at his Gwale ward on January 26, 2026, a move that signals a major realignment in Nigeria’s most populous northern state.

    State officials have described the move as a “homecoming.” The governor’s camp says the shift will improve coordination between Kano’s government and the federal administration in Abuja. The transition reportedly includes the defection of 22 state lawmakers and 44 local government chairmen, potentially reshaping legislative and administrative alignments across the state.

    While supporters frame the decision as a pathway to accelerated development, critics argue it may narrow political diversity in Kano. Separate reporting has described the defection as further consolidating the APC’s position nationally, with Kano officials also pushing back against narratives that the state’s political future should revolve around any single individual.

    Echotitbits take: This defection effectively collapses the NNPP’s strongest base. Watch for how the Kwankwasiyya movement reacts—this could either lead to a total APC hegemony in Kano or trigger a new, aggressive opposition coalition.
    Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/kano-gov-to-formally-rejoin-apc-monday/ 2026-01-26

    Photo Credit: The Punch

  • Governor Abba Yusuf Defects from NNPP as Kano Political Crisis Deepens

    Governor Abba Yusuf Defects from NNPP as Kano Political Crisis Deepens

    Daily Post reports that Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), citing what he described as the “best interest of the people of Kano.” The announcement reportedly coincided with a broader political shift that includes the defection of eight House of Representatives members and 21 State Assembly lawmakers.

    The development signals a deepening rift with Yusuf’s political mentor, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, and points to a wider realignment in Nigeria’s most populous northern state. Sources quoted in the report suggested the move was driven by internal party friction and a strategic calculation to secure stronger federal alignment for state-level projects.

    The Punch and Leadership also corroborated the split and its immediate political implications, including rising tensions ahead of the 2027 political cycle.

    Echotitbits take: The NNPP’s influence in Kano appears structurally weakened by this exit. Watch closely for party-switch litigation over defecting lawmakers’ seats, and for how Kwankwasiyya loyalists respond in the streets and at the courts.
    Source: The Nation — https://thenationonlineng.net/updated-yusuf-eight-reps-members-44-council-chairmen-others-resign-from-nnpp/ 2026-01-24

    Photo Credit: The Nation