Politics

2027 Elections: INEC Gives Fresh Warning To Broadcasters

Published

2 months ago

April 8, 2026

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has cautioned broadcast media organisations to uphold accuracy and professionalism, warning that the credibility of the 2027 general elections will depend heavily on how responsibly Nigeria’s airwaves are managed.

Amupitan gave the warning on Tuesday while speaking at the 81st General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria.

Describing the information space as a “critical battleground” in modern elections, the INEC chairman said misinformation now poses a greater threat to credible polls than physical disruptions.

“The integrity of our elections is no longer threatened only by physical interference but increasingly by the rapid spread of false information amplified through unverified broadcasts,” he said.

He urged broadcasters to comply strictly with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, particularly those guiding political broadcasting, stressing that equitable access to media platforms for all registered political parties is a legal obligation.

“With 22 registered political parties, fairness in airtime allocation is not a matter of discretion but a requirement of the law,” Amupitan stated.

The INEC chairman also warned against use of abusive or inflammatory content capable of inciting ethnic, religious or sectional tensions, noting that irresponsible broadcasting could undermine national cohesion.

He reminded media organisations of the mandatory 24-hour “cooling-off period” before Election Day, during which political campaigns and advertisements are prohibited.

“This period is designed to allow voters reflect and make informed decisions free from last-minute manipulation,” he said.

While acknowledging the constitutional right to freedom of expression, Amupitan emphasised that the airwaves, as a public resource, must be used responsibly.

He further identified challenges such as regulatory overlaps, enforcement gaps and the growing convergence of traditional and digital media, which he said has complicated monitoring efforts.

The INEC boss also raised concerns over perceived incumbency advantage in state-owned media and the increasing commercialisation of political airtime, warning that such trends could disadvantage smaller parties.

“Practices that skew access to the media weaken the level playing field required for credible elections,” he noted.

Amupitan called for stronger collaboration between INEC and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), clearer guidelines on equal access, and improved fact-checking systems.

He also urged transparency in political advertising, including full disclosure of sponsorship and pricing.

“Broadcast organisations must prioritise truth and professionalism over profit. Verification of information before dissemination is essential in combating fake news,” he said.

Reaffirming INEC’s commitment to transparency, the chairman advised media practitioners to rely on the Commission’s official platforms for accurate electoral information.

He added that the success of the 2027 general election would depend not only on logistics and technology, but also on the integrity of the information environment.

“The media has a crucial role to play in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and mobilising citizens to participate in the electoral process,” Amupitan said.

Politics

NDC Warri Fed. Constituency Candidate, Mulade, Pledges Inclusive Representation

Published

3 days ago

May 30, 2026

Editor

The winner of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election for Warri Federal Constituency, Dr Sheriff Mulade, has
assured constituents of prioritising their interests through effective, people-oriented, and responsive representation if elected at the general election.

This was contained in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Warri on Saturday.

Chief Mulade, while expressing profound gratitude to party delegates, supporters, and constituents for the overwhelming support that secured him victory, described the outcome of the election as a demonstration of the confidence, trust, and acceptance reposed in him by the people of Warri Federal Constituency.

The environmental rights activist and peace advocate said he remains humbled by the mandate entrusted on him.

According to him, the victory belongs, not just to him, but to every resident of the constituency who believes in the ideals of good governance, unity, and sustainable development.

“I deeply appreciate all those who participated in the electoral process, especially the delegates, supporters, and well-wishers who stood firmly behind my aspiration. Your support, trust, and confidence mean a great deal to me,” he stated.

Comrade Mulade further called for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective progress among the three major ethnic nationalities that make up the constituency—the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo—stressing that the future of Warri Federal Constituency depends on collaboration and mutual inclusiveness.

He noted that the outcome of the primary election reflects the people’s desire for inclusive leadership, grassroots-driven representation, and a renewed commitment towards addressing the developmental needs of the constituency.

“I dedicate this victory to God Almighty and all the people of Warri Federal Constituency whom I seek to serve. This mandate is a call to greater responsibility, and I assure you that I will not let you down. Together, we shall build a constituency where every community has a voice and every citizen has a stake in our collective progress,” Mulade added.

The NDC candidate also urged party members and supporters to remain united and focused as the party prepares for the next phase of the electoral process.

He emphasized that victory can only be sustained through solidarity, commitment, and a shared vision for the development of Warri Federal Constituency.

Politics

‘The Country Is Bleeding’ – Oba Olaitan On Why Nigerians Must Replace Tinubu In 2027

Published

4 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

The leader of Afenifere, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, has explained why Nigerians, through the ballot, must as a matter of urgency, replace the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government in 2027.

He said Nigeria urgently needs a change of government to address insecurity, economic hardship, and threats to democracy.

Olaitan spoke this weekend at the SDP 2026 National Convention and Presidential Primaries held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi State.

Addressing delegates and party members, the Afenifere leader said Nigeria was currently “bleeding” under the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration.

According to him, worsening insecurity across the country has left citizens living in fear.

“Our people can no longer sleep with both eyes closed because of the unrelenting wave of insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes that have turned farmlands into killing fields and turned hope into fear,” he said.

Olaitan also lamented the state of the economy, saying the rising cost of living had pushed many Nigerians into hardship.

“At the same time, the economy has been brought to its nadir. Prices of basic goods have gone beyond the reach of ordinary families. Our youths roam the streets without jobs, and our farmers and traders struggle daily just to survive,” he stated.

The Afenifere leader accused the APC government of weakening opposition parties and undermining Nigeria’s democracy.

“Nigerian democracy is under threat today with a government that is jittery about constructive opposition,” he said.

“As we are all aware, the APC government breaks any identifiable opposition into fractious factions, while destroying the very basis of the multiparty system.”

Olaitan maintained that the suffering in the country was a result of wrong policy choices and not an act of God.

“This suffering of many is not an act of God. It is the direct result of wrong choices and of neoliberal economic policies that put market forces and elite comfort above the welfare of the people,” he added.

He said the next general election should not be seen as a battle between ethnic or religious groups but between the ruling party and Nigerians facing poverty and hardship.

According to him, the SDP remains the party best positioned to deliver social justice, economic recovery, and democratic inclusion.

“SDP is not just another political party; it is the party that best reflects the values of social justice, equity, and a genuine concern for the masses and for democracy,” he said.

Politics

NDC Clears Air On Reports Of Aspirants Being Prevented From Participating In Primaries

Published

4 days ago

May 29, 2026

Editor

The Screening and Selection Committees of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has reacted to the reports that some aspirants are allegedly being prevented from participating in the ongoing party primaries across the country.

In a statement signed by Osa Director Esq., the National Publicity Secretary, NDC, the party said categorically that all aspirants who successfully completed the screening process have been duly cleared and are therefore eligible to participate in the primaries.

“Consequently, any action by any state chapter or party official aimed at preventing a duly cleared aspirant from participating in the exercise is null, void, and of no effect whatsoever,” the statement said.

“No aspirant should be denied the opportunity to participate in the primaries in any part of the country.”

The NDC said it remains a progressive and people-oriented political party firmly committed to the principles of accountability, transparency, fairness, and inclusivity.

It added, “It is therefore unacceptable for any arm of the party’s administrative structure to act contrary to these core values and guiding principles.”

The party said that members and officials at all levels are directed to ensure that the primaries are conducted peacefully, transparently, and strictly in accordance with the constitution, guidelines, and regulations of the party.

It said, “The primaries for the presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly elections will hold nationwide on May 29, 2026.

“Aspirants are further advised to note that, aside from the State Assembly primaries, which will hold within the respective constituency areas, all other primaries shall take place at the local government level as earlier communicated by the party.”