Panic in Aso Rock Villa as Opposition Leaders Reject Tinubu’s Electoral Law, Announce Next Action

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com 

“Opposition coalition vows constitutional resistance, warns new electoral amendments could undermine 2027 polls.”

On 26 February 2026 in Abuja, opposition political parties triggered political turbulence inside the Aso Rock Presidential Villa after publicly *rejecting the recently amended Electoral Act 2026 signed into law by President Bola Tinubu. The rejection came during a high‑profile press conference where leaders described the new law as anti‑democratic and threatening to the integrity of the 2027 general elections.

The opposition, led by figures including former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar, Ajuri Ahmed of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and other prominent voices, faulted key provisions of the Act; especially clauses allowing manual result collation and limiting real‑time electronic transmission of polling unit results. They argued the law could undermine transparency, deepen electoral manipulation and entrench the governing party’s advantage.

In response, the coalition called for the National Assembly to commence a fresh amendment process and vowed to use constitutional means to resist implementation of the legislation ahead of elections widely seen as decisive for Nigeria’s democratic future.

The confrontation has ignited heated debate among civil society, political analysts and within the ruling party, reflecting widening fault lines over electoral reform and democratic credibility in the run‑up to 2027.

Mixed Reactions as Olubadan Oba Rashidi Ladoja Stands to Greet Sheikh Onikijipa at Ramadan Lecture

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com

“A gesture of respect during the Omituntun Ramadan lecture sparks debate over tradition, protocol, and interfaith harmony in Ibadan..”

Ibadan, Nigeria — His Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, drew mixed reactions on 26 February 2026 after he stood to greet respected Islamic cleric Sheikh Dr. Sulaiman Faruq‑Onikijipa during the 12th annual Omituntun Ramadan public lecture held in Ibadan. The gesture, captured in a widely circulated video, prompted both applause and debate across social media platforms.

Some attendees and commentators praised the monarch’s act as a powerful demonstration of interfaith respect and unity. One participant told journalists, “It was a beautiful reminder that in times of peace and religious observance, dignity and honour come first,” emphasizing the importance of mutual respect during the holy month of Ramadan.

Others, however, questioned the hierarchical propriety of the act. Social media users debated whether a traditional ruler standing for a religious leader blurred customary lines, suggesting the gesture was unusual in formal cultural contexts.

Religious leaders present framed the moment as a symbol of Ibadan’s enduring tradition of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the positive role such gestures play in fostering community harmony.

The Omituntun Ramadan lecture, held annually, brings together scholars, civic leaders and the public to reflect on moral, social, and spiritual issues during the Islamic holy month. Its prominence in Ibadan underscores the city’s role as a hub of religious dialogue and education. The Olubadan’s gesture, therefore, was not only symbolic but also a reminder of the city’s ongoing commitment to interfaith collaboration and mutual respect in an increasingly pluralistic society.

*DR. CHIDI ANTHONY HAILS NEW IGP, OLATUNJI DISU, SEES BEACON OF HOPE FOR NIGERIA

The National President of the Christian Police Fellowship of Nigeria (CPFN), Bishop Chidi Anthony, has extended warm congratulations to Olatunji Disu on his appointment as the new acting Inspector-General of Police.

In a statement, Bishop Anthony expressed his confidence in the new IGP’s ability to lead the Nigeria Police Force to greater heights, saying, “We believe that Nigeria will prevail under your committed leadership.”

He prayed that God would grant the new IGP wisdom, courage, and strength to tackle the challenges facing the nation, emphasizing the importance of integrity, fairness, and justice in policing.

“Your leadership is a beacon of hope for a better tomorrow,” Bishop Anthony said, urging the new IGP to remain focused on his vision for a safer Nigeria.

The CPFN president also called on all police officers and men to support the new IGP, saying, “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of Nigerians.”

In his message, Dr. Chidi Anthony, General Overseer of Kings In Christ Power Ministries and president of Pentecostal Ministers Forum, advised the new IGP to prioritize community policing, engage with local communities, and address the root causes of insecurity in the country.

“We urge you to be bold, courageous, and unwavering in your commitment to serving the nation,” Dr. Anthony said. “Remember that your leadership is not just about enforcing laws, but about serving humanity and promoting peace.”

Dr. Anthony also conveyed a message of hope to Nigerians, saying, “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history, but we are not without hope. With leaders like IGP Olatunji Disu at the helm, we are confident that Nigeria will overcome its challenges and emerge stronger.”

The Christian community and the CPFN look forward to working with the new IGP to promote peace, security, and nation-building in Nigeria.

*Message of Hope to Nigerians:*

Fellow Nigerians, we are reminded that our nation is greater than any challenge we face. Let us unite in support of our new IGP and the Nigeria Police Force as they work tirelessly to ensure our safety and security.

Let us pray for our leaders, that they may be guided by wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to serving the people.

Together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come. Nigeria, we are counting on you, IGP Disu!