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2027 polls: INEC consults over Ramadan overlap, promises equal access

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INEC Cancels Election In Kogi

2027 polls: INEC consults over Ramadan overlap, promises equal access

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission has addressed concerns over its recently released Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election, particularly regarding the dates fixed for the conduct of the elections.

INEC had on Friday announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on February 20, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly polls will be held on March 6, 2027.

The commission also fixed party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.

However, concerns have arisen from some Nigerians, especially Muslims, over the date of the general election, as they noted it falls within the holy month of Ramadan. They emphasised that the physical demands of fasting may impact voter turnout, logistical, observers and electoral officers’ efficiency.

Notable among the voices is a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, who urged the commission to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date, citing concerns over its overlap with the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan.

In a post via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, Atiku said the proposed date falls “squarely within the Ramadan period (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.”

A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also urged INEC to reconsider the dates.

Tagging INEC, his post on X partly read: “If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.

“Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens.

“I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.”

However, INEC, in a statement issued on Friday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the timelines contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.

Haruna stated that the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, in effect since 2019, fixed the dates elections are to be held.

He quoted paragraph two of the regulation as stating: “Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, shall hold on the third Saturday of February of any general election year, while election to the office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter.”

He said, “Accordingly, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.

“The Commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections.”

He stressed that, in view of the developments, “the Commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

“INEC reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election. The public will be duly informed of any further developments.”

 

2027 polls: INEC consults over Ramadan overlap, promises equal access

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Harvest of Babies 2026:  It Is God’s Will for All to Be Fruitful — Dr. Chris Okafor

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Harvest of Babies 2026: 

It Is God’s Will for All to Be Fruitful — Dr. Chris Okafor

 

“God is not moved by sentiment, but by principle.”

 

The much-anticipated family liberation conference of Grace Nation Global, Harvest of Babies 2026, has commenced on a strong note, with reports of over 700 miracle babies declared during the ongoing programme.

The four-day event began on Wednesday, March 24, 2026, drawing millions of participants from across the world through Liberation TV and other Grace Nation online platforms.

 

Fruitfulness as a Divine Mandate

 

Speaking on Day Two of the conference, the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Worldwide, Christopher Okafor, described fruitfulness as a foundational command from God.

Preaching on the theme “Fruitfulness,” he emphasized that the first mandate given to humanity was to be fruitful, stressing that this principle extends beyond childbearing to every area of life.

“It is the will of God for everyone to be fruitful,” he said, “not only in the area of the womb but in all aspects of life.”

He further described barrenness—whether physical, spiritual, or economic—as contrary to God’s intention for His people.

“Wherever barrenness is broken,” he noted, “it is by divine intervention. God confirms His Word, not human opinion.”

 

The Principle Behind Fruitfulness

 

Dr. Okafor explained that fruitfulness is governed by principles, not emotions.

“God is not moved by sentiment,” he stated. “He responds to principles.”

According to him, one of the key principles is service and commitment to God. He emphasized that unanswered prayers may sometimes be linked to a lack of genuine service or alignment with divine expectations.

“To be fruitful, you must understand the principle of service,” he said. “When you serve God sincerely and make Him your covenant focus, fruitfulness becomes evident in your life.”

He added that true devotion involves serving God wholeheartedly, both in spirit and in action, noting that such commitment attracts divine provision and establishes lasting results.

 

Testimonies and Manifestations

 

The conference has reportedly witnessed significant moments of healing, deliverance, and restoration. One notable testimony involved a woman who had reportedly been unable to relieve herself for over five weeks and was scheduled for a major medical procedure. Following prayers, she experienced immediate relief, an outcome participants described as a remarkable intervention.

Several other testimonies of breakthroughs and restoration were also recorded during the session.

 

Continuing the Conference

 

The Harvest of Babies 2026 conference continues at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, with daily sessions attracting both physical and virtual attendees.

Organizers say the programme is focused on prayers for fruitfulness, deliverance from negative patterns, marital breakthroughs, financial stability, and the fruit of the womb.

Participants are encouraged to join the ongoing sessions, with the belief that divine intervention can bring transformation in every area of life.

Harvest of Babies 2026: 
It Is God’s Will for All to Be Fruitful — Dr. Chris Okafor

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Centre Commends Nigerian Military’s Intensified Operations in North Central, Charges Armed Forces to Deepen Gains and Ensure Peaceful Easter Across The Country 

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*Centre Commends Nigerian Military’s Intensified Operations in North Central, Charges Armed Forces to Deepen Gains and Ensure Peaceful Easter Across The Country*

 

 

The Civic Centre for National Security and Civic Responsibility (CCNSCR) has commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria for what it described as “notable and encouraging improvements” in security operations across Nigeria’s North Central region.

 

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Executive Director, Dr Johnson Audu, the group said recent military gains in the region reflect a renewed operational drive and stronger coordination under the current leadership of the Armed Forces.

 

The group noted that communities across several North Central states, previously plagued by banditry, violent attacks, and persistent security disruptions, are beginning to witness a gradual restoration of order, improved troop presence, and more responsive military interventions.

 

According to the statement, these developments point to a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach by the military, resulting in the disruption of criminal networks and the containment of threats that had long destabilised parts of the region.

 

“The Civic Centre for National Security and Civic Responsibility commends the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for the renewed sense of direction and operational coordination within the Armed Forces. The emerging security improvements across the North Central region are both significant and reassuring,” the statement reads.

 

The group observed that sustained offensives targeting criminal enclaves, alongside increased surveillance and rapid deployment capabilities, have contributed to weakening the operational capacity of armed groups.

 

It added that the military’s growing ability to secure key transport routes and respond swiftly to distress situations has helped restore public confidence in affected communities.

 

Dr Audu said the Armed Forces deserve recognition for maintaining pressure on criminal elements despite the complex and evolving nature of security challenges in the region.

 

“The men and women of our Armed Forces continue to demonstrate resilience, discipline, and commitment in the face of difficult operational realities. Their efforts in safeguarding lives and stabilising communities across the North Central deserve national commendation,” he said.

 

While applauding the progress made, the group emphasised that the current gains must be consolidated and sustained to prevent any relapse into widespread insecurity.

 

It urged the military to intensify ongoing operations and maintain strategic momentum in order to ensure that recent improvements translate into lasting peace across the region.

 

“These gains, while commendable, remain fragile. It is imperative that the Armed Forces sustain the current operational tempo and continue to apply pressure on criminal elements to ensure that stability is not only achieved but preserved,” the statement added.

 

The group specifically charged the military leadership to replicate emerging pockets of stability across other troubled areas, stressing that consistent presence and sustained engagement are critical to long-term success.

 

Looking ahead to the Easter period, the CCNSCR called on the Armed Forces to ensure heightened vigilance and robust deployment to guarantee a peaceful and secure celebration across the country.

 

“We urge the military to sustain and intensify its efforts to ensure that Nigerians across all regions can observe the forthcoming Easter season in peace and safety. The goal must be to replicate and expand current security improvements nationwide,” the statement said.

 

The group also underscored the importance of citizen cooperation in supporting the work of security agencies, noting that lasting security cannot be achieved through military action alone.

 

It called on residents of the North Central region and Nigerians at large to remain vigilant, share credible information with security agencies, and resist any form of collaboration with criminal groups.

 

“Security is a shared responsibility. Citizens must actively support the Armed Forces through vigilance, cooperation, and a collective rejection of all forms of criminality. The fight against insecurity requires a united national effort,” Dr Audu said.

 

The statement further encouraged community leaders, civil society groups, and local institutions to strengthen grassroots engagement and promote a culture of peace and mutual responsibility.

 

It stressed that trust between citizens and the military remains a critical factor in sustaining recent gains and preventing the resurgence of violence.

 

The CCNSCR concluded by reaffirming its support for the Armed Forces and its commitment to promoting civic participation in national security, urging all stakeholders to remain resolute in the collective effort to secure the nation.

 

“The progress recorded in the North Central region must serve as a foundation for broader national stability. With sustained military effort and active citizen collaboration, Nigeria can move steadily towards lasting peace and security,” the statement said.

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TULA MOTO KEKE: Electric 8-Seater Keke Hits Nigerian Market, Promises Higher Earnings for Transport Operators

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 TULA MOTO KEKE: Electric 8-Seater Keke Hits Nigerian Market, Promises Higher Earnings for Transport Operators

 

LAGOS — A new innovation in urban transportation has been introduced into the Nigerian market with the launch of an 8-seater fully electric power keke, offering commercial operators a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional petrol-powered tricycles.

 

 

 

The electric tricycle, now available in Lagos with distribution extending nationwide, is designed with two rows of passenger seating and has the capacity to carry up to eight passengers per trip—more than double the typical capacity of standard kekes. Promoters say this feature is aimed at boosting daily income for transport operators amid rising fuel costs across the country.

 

 

 

According to the distributors, the keke runs entirely on electric power, eliminating the need for petrol and reducing the burden of fluctuating fuel prices. They added that the vehicle is equipped with a long-lasting battery capable of covering extended distances on a single charge, making it suitable for commercial use across busy routes, estates, campuses, and market areas nationwide.

 

 

 

 

“The idea is simple, help drivers earn more while spending less,” a company representative said. “With this electric keke, operators can carry more passengers per trip and avoid the daily stress of fuel purchase.”

In addition to its increased capacity, the vehicle is said to require minimal maintenance compared to traditional tricycles, offering further savings for owners. Its smooth and quiet operation is also expected to improve the commuting experience for passengers.

 

 

 

 

Industry observers note that the introduction of electric-powered transport options aligns with broader efforts to promote cleaner energy solutions in Nigeria’s transport sector, particularly in densely populated cities like Lagos and beyond.

 

 

 

 

 

The distributors disclosed that the product is currently available under a limited promotional offer and can be delivered to all parts of Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 

For inquiries and purchase, interested buyers can contact:

📞 08153432071

📞 08035889103

 

 

Office Address:

📍 Plot 9, Block 113, Beulah Plaza,

Lekki–Epe Expressway,

Lekki Phase 1, Lagos

 

 

As Nigeria continues to grapple with rising transportation costs and environmental concerns, innovations such as the electric power keke may signal a gradual shift toward more sustainable and profitable mobility solutions nationwide.

 

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