INEC Under Fire as Missing Voters’ Register Sparks 2027 Election Transparency Row - Newstrends
Connect with us

News

INEC Under Fire as Missing Voters’ Register Sparks 2027 Election Transparency Row

Published

1 minute ago

on

2027 Elections: INEC Reveals Why Pantami, Adebutu, Others Were Excluded

INEC Under Fire as Missing Voters’ Register Sparks 2027 Election Transparency Row

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has come under scrutiny after explaining why Nigeria’s preliminary voters’ register was not uploaded to its official website during the period scheduled for public scrutiny, despite being displayed physically at registration areas across the country.

 

The development has triggered concerns about transparency and compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections.

 

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, reportedly explained that the register had been made available at the wards but was not uploaded to the commission’s website.

 

“The voter register has been published, but in the wards. It just wasn’t published on our website,” Haruna was quoted as saying by *The PUNCH*.

 

The explanation followed complaints that the commission’s online portal did not provide access to the preliminary register during the period designated for voters to check their registration details and raise objections where necessary.

 

INEC had announced that the preliminary voters’ register would be displayed nationwide from October 9 to 15, 2026, to enable registered voters to verify their details and submit claims or objections concerning errors, omissions or questionable entries.

 

The controversy has raised questions about whether physical display alone satisfies the legal requirements for the exercise, particularly for voters who cannot easily travel to their registration areas.

 

In a separate explanation reported by *Premium Times*, Haruna said the commission was receiving and compiling claims and objections arising from the physical display of the register.

 

According to the report, INEC planned to prepare a clean copy for publication by December 15, 2026.

 

However, the proposed date has not, by itself, resolved concerns about why the preliminary register was unavailable online during the stipulated period for public scrutiny.

 

Section 19(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 requires INEC to designate a seven-day period for public scrutiny of the voters’ register, with copies made available at registration areas and on its official website or another website established for that purpose.

 

The provision is designed to give registered voters and other interested persons an opportunity to identify errors, omissions and questionable entries before the register is finalised. It also provides a framework for claims and objections concerning the inclusion or omission of names and the correction of personal details.

 

Section 19(5) prescribes a penalty for an INEC official who fails to display or publish the register as required. The provision specifies a fine of ₦100,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

 

The central legal question is whether displaying the register physically without making it available online during the stipulated period satisfies the requirements of the law. The controversy has therefore placed the commission’s handling of the exercise under renewed scrutiny.

 

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has also criticised INEC over the absence of the preliminary register from its website, calling for the list to be made accessible so that voters can verify whether their names and personal details have been properly captured.

 

Atiku’s position is that announcing the total number of registered voters is not sufficient to enable individuals to determine whether their names appear correctly on the register. Voters need access to the detailed list to identify omissions and other discrepancies and take appropriate steps to address them.

 

The controversy has added to concerns among political stakeholders and election observers about the accessibility of electoral information ahead of the 2027 polls.

 

It comes after INEC announced that Nigeria’s national register of voters had exceeded 103 million following the completion of the three phases of the Continuous Voter Registration exercise and subsequent biometric checks.

 

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan, disclosed the figure during an engagement with media executives in Abuja in early October. The registration exercise recorded more than 10.7 million new registrants across its three phases, subject to the commission’s verification processes.

 

Although the aggregate figure provides an indication of the size of Nigeria’s voting population, it does not enable individual voters to confirm whether their names and personal details have been correctly captured. That is why the preliminary display is an important safeguard against errors, omissions and questionable entries.

 

The absence of online access has practical implications for voters who live far from their registration areas or cannot easily visit INEC offices. Making the register available online would allow them to check their details more conveniently and identify corrections that may be required.

 

Online publication would also provide political parties, election observers and other stakeholders with an additional means of scrutinising the register and raising concerns through the appropriate procedures.

 

Although INEC maintains that the preliminary register was displayed physically at registration areas, questions remain about the failure to upload it to the website during the announced period and the implications for public access and electoral transparency.

 

With preparations for the 2027 general elections gathering momentum, the commission faces pressure to clarify the circumstances surrounding the omission and explain how affected voters will be able to exercise their rights to scrutiny and objection.

 

INEC’s reported plan to publish a clean copy by December 15, 2026, is expected to attract close attention from political parties, civil society organisations and the public.

 

However, the planned publication does not automatically settle questions about whether the earlier exercise complied with the law. The commission’s explanation, the timing of online publication and the practical access available to voters remain central to the debate over the credibility and transparency of Nigeria’s electoral process.

 

INEC Under Fire as Missing Voters’ Register Sparks 2027 Election Transparency Row

Loading

Related Topics:
Advertisement

News

Bill Clinton condemns anti-Muslim prejudice, cites Qur’an’s message of coexistence

Published

22 hours ago

on

October 25, 2026

By

Bill Clinton condemns anti-Muslim prejudice, cites Qur’an’s message of coexistence
Former United States President Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton condemns anti-Muslim prejudice, cites Qur’an’s message of coexistence

Former US president recalls daughter Chelsea’s experience reading Islamic holy book, says people should not be denigrated because of their faith

Former United States President Bill Clinton has condemned discrimination against Muslims, declaring that he is tired of people being denigrated simply because of their religious beliefs.

Clinton made the remarks on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, while speaking at an interfaith gathering at Koinonia Worship Center in Florida, where he cited a passage from the Qur’an that encourages mutual understanding among people of different backgrounds.

The former president recalled how his daughter, Chelsea Clinton, introduced him to the message after reading the Qur’an from beginning to end when she was 15 years old.

According to reports of his speech, Clinton used the experience to highlight the importance of religious tolerance, peaceful coexistence and the need to resist prejudice against people because of their faith.

“I’m tired of people denigrating Muslims for being Muslims,” Clinton said.

He argued that religious differences should not become a basis for hostility and that people should not be judged collectively on account of the actions of individuals who share their faith.

“There are bad actors in every faith because we’re all flawed human beings,” he added.

Clinton also expressed weariness with religious wars and cultural conflicts, calling attention to the need for greater understanding across religious and cultural boundaries.

READ ALSO:

Recounting his daughter’s experience, Clinton said Chelsea had read the Qur’an from beginning to end at the age of 15 and subsequently drew his attention to a passage concerning humanity’s diversity and the relationship between different peoples.

The passage, identified as Qur’an 49:13, is found in Surah Al-Hujurat, which teaches that Allah created humanity from a male and a female and made people into nations and tribes so that they might know one another.

The verse further states that the most honoured in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.

Clinton paraphrased the passage as a message that people were created differently not to despise one another, but to become acquainted with and learn from one another.

His reference to the verse formed a central part of his argument against religious prejudice, emphasising that differences in faith, ethnicity and culture should encourage understanding rather than discrimination.

The Qur’anic passage is widely associated with the Islamic principle of human dignity and the recognition of diversity among peoples.

Clinton’s remarks challenged the tendency to associate the actions of individuals with entire religious communities. By observing that wrongdoing occurs among followers of different faiths, he argued against treating Muslims or members of any other religious group as collectively responsible for the misconduct of particular individuals.

His comments also drew attention to the consequences of religious and cultural divisions, which can deepen mistrust and encourage hostility between communities.

The former president’s position, as reported from the event, was that people should be assessed as individuals rather than denigrated merely because they belong to a particular religion.

The remarks have attracted attention because they place the Qur’an’s message of mutual understanding at the centre of a public discussion about anti-Muslim prejudice in the United States.

Clinton spoke at the Florida gathering against the backdrop of political controversy surrounding comments about Muslim political figures in the United States.

Reports on the event linked his remarks to the debate surrounding Abdul El-Sayed, a Muslim Democratic candidate seeking election to the United States Senate from Michigan, who has faced criticism from political opponents.

President Donald Trump has reportedly used the term “jihadist” in referring to El-Sayed, drawing attention to the use of religiously charged language in American political discourse.

Clinton’s comments, however, focused on the broader issue of denigrating Muslims because of their faith and the need to promote understanding across religious communities.

The event also featured David Jolly, the Democratic candidate for governor of Florida, whose campaign was the political context for Clinton’s appearance.

The gathering brought together religious and political issues, with the former president using the occasion to speak about inclusion, tolerance and the dangers of defining people through religious hostility.

Following the circulation of Clinton’s remarks, some social media posts attributed additional statements to him and his daughter, including claims that Chelsea described the Qur’an as a “miraculous book” and declared that all negative things said about Muslims were lies.

However, those additional statements have not been established by the available reports of Clinton’s speech.

What is supported by the reported remarks is that Clinton recalled Chelsea’s reading of the Qur’an, cited the message of Surah Al-Hujurat 49:13 and condemned the denigration of Muslims because of their religious identity.

The distinction is important because a genuine statement can be accompanied by unverified additions as it spreads across social media.

Clinton’s documented message remains a call for religious tolerance and mutual understanding, rather than evidence that every statement contained in the viral version was made by him or his daughter.

The passage Clinton cited, Qur’an 49:13, states in part that Allah made humanity into nations and tribes so that people may know one another. The verse places human diversity within a moral framework in which righteousness, rather than ethnic or social identity, determines a person’s standing before Allah.

For Muslims, the passage is a reminder that differences among peoples should not automatically become grounds for contempt or discrimination.

Clinton’s decision to invoke the verse in condemning anti-Muslim prejudice has therefore brought renewed attention to its message of recognition and coexistence.

His remarks also underscore the importance of verifying quotations attributed to public figures, particularly when religious issues and politically sensitive debates are involved.

Bill Clinton condemns anti-Muslim prejudice, cites Qur’an’s message of coexistence

Source: Al Jazeera, Siasat and other published reports on Clinton’s October 20, 2026, remarks at Koinonia Worship Center, Florida.

Loading

Continue Reading

News

41 Days in Bandits’ Den: Five Islamic Clerics Still Held After Tinubu Re-Election Prayer Trip

Published

2 days ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

41 Days in Bandits’ Den: Five Islamic Clerics Still Held After Tinubu Re-Election Prayer Trip
41 Days in Bandits’ Den: Five Islamic Clerics Still Held After Tinubu Re-Election Prayer Trip

Five Islamic clerics abducted by suspected bandits in Zamfara State have remained in captivity for 41 days, renewing concerns over their safety and the persistent threat of kidnapping in Nigeria’s North-West.

The continued detention of the clerics was disclosed on Friday by conflict reporter Bakatsine, who appealed to Nigerians to continue praying for their safe return.

In an update shared on social media on October 23, 2026, Bakatsine said the Islamic scholars were still in the hands of their abductors and expressed hope that they would reunite with their families.

The clerics were reportedly abducted on September 12, 2026, while travelling towards Talata Mafara Local Government Area for a special prayer gathering organised in connection with President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

The gathering was associated with Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, a former Zamfara State governor and the Director-General of Tinubu’s re-election campaign council.

Reports identified the five clerics as Imam Yahuza, Magawata Abdullahi, Malam Shehu Dakko, Imam Bala Fagon and Na’ibi Tasi’u. They were said to have travelled from communities in Bakura and Talata Mafara local government areas to attend the gathering.

READ ALSO:

However, the Nigerian Army clarified shortly after the incident that the clerics were not abducted at Yari’s residence, contrary to some initial reports. According to the military, intelligence indicated that the victims were seized while travelling from the Sububu Forest axis in Bakura towards Talata Mafara.

The Zamfara State Police Command also confirmed the incident, stating that armed men had intercepted the clerics’ vehicle along the Dakko–Damri feeder road in Bakura Local Government Area and that efforts were underway to rescue them.

There were initial reports that six Islamic clerics had been abducted, although the latest reports identifying those still in captivity named five victims.

Reports following the abduction indicated that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦100 million from the victims’ families before the amount was reportedly reduced to ₦30 million during negotiations. However, there has been no confirmed public update on the progress of the negotiations or whether the demand has been met.

As of Friday, October 23, there was no confirmed information that the clerics had been released. Their current whereabouts and condition also remained unclear.

The prolonged captivity has heightened concerns over the security situation in Zamfara State, where armed groups have continued to abduct travellers and residents for ransom.

The incident has also drawn attention to the risks faced by people travelling between rural communities in the state, despite security operations aimed at curbing banditry.

Families of kidnapped victims and residents of affected communities have repeatedly called for stronger security measures and more effective rescue operations to prevent further abductions and secure the release of those still being held.

Bakatsine’s latest appeal has renewed calls for continued public concern over the fate of the five clerics as their families await news of their safe return.

 

41 Days in Bandits’ Den: Five Islamic Clerics Still Held After Tinubu Re-Election Prayer Trip

Loading

Continue Reading

News

EFCC Opens Recruitment for Nigerians, Sets Age Limits for Four Job Categories

Published

2 days ago

on

October 24, 2026

By

EFCC Opens Recruitment for Nigerians, Sets Age Limits for Four Job Categories
EFCC Opens Recruitment for Nigerians, Sets Age Limits for Four Job Categories

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has opened its 2026 nationwide recruitment exercise, inviting qualified Nigerians to apply for positions across four job categories, with age limits ranging from 18 to 40 years.

The Federal Character Commission (FCC), in a recruitment listing published on October 23, 2026, marked the exercise as ongoing and outlined the qualifications, age requirements and other eligibility conditions for prospective applicants.

The recruitment covers the Detective Superintendent, Detective Inspector, Detective Assistant, and Professionals/Skilled Workers cadres, providing opportunities for university graduates, National Diploma holders, secondary school certificate holders and experienced professionals.

According to the published notice, applications must be submitted online through the designated recruitment portal. The application process is free, and candidates are warned against paying individuals or organisations promising to secure employment for them.

For the Detective Superintendent cadre, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma (HND) from a recognised institution, alongside a valid National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge or exemption certificate. The position corresponds to Assistant Superintendent of EFCC II on Grade Level 08, and applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.

The Detective Inspector category is open to candidates with a National Diploma (ND) or National Certificate in Education (NCE) from a recognised institution. The position corresponds to Inspector of EFCC II on Grade Level 06, with an age requirement of 18 to 27 years.

READ ALSO:

For the Detective Assistant cadre, applicants must have at least five credit passes in WAEC, NECO, GCE or NABTEB examinations, including English Language and Mathematics. The results must be obtained in no more than two sittings. The position corresponds to Detective Assistant II on Grade Level 04, and applicants must be between 18 and 25 years old.

The fourth category, Professionals and Skilled Workers, covers applicants with relevant academic qualifications, professional credentials or technical expertise. The stipulated age range is 18 to 40 years.

The professional and skilled-worker category covers several fields, including medicine, pharmacy, law, nursing, medical laboratory science, engineering and technology-related disciplines. The commission is also seeking qualified or experienced personnel in human resources management, financial analysis, media and publicity, policy analysis, legal services, research, planning, monitoring and evaluation, librarianship, information and communications technology, driving, and administrative or clerical support.

Applicants in this category are expected to possess qualifications relevant to their chosen positions. An NYSC discharge or exemption certificate is also listed among the requirements, while membership of a relevant professional association is an added advantage. A valid national driver’s licence is similarly listed as an advantage for applicants seeking professional and skilled-worker positions.

Beyond the academic and age requirements, the published recruitment notice states that applicants must be Nigerian citizens, possess basic computer skills and demonstrate good character and integrity. Candidates must also be medically fit and provide evidence of fitness from a government-approved hospital. Applicants with criminal records are ineligible, while the notice states that tattoos on any part of the body are not permitted.

Additional conditions apply to cadet applicants, who must be single at the time of application. Male cadet applicants must be at least 1.67 metres tall, while female applicants must have a minimum height of 1.64 metres. Prospective candidates are advised to review the requirements carefully and ensure they meet the conditions for their preferred category before submitting their applications.

Interested applicants are directed to complete their applications online through the designated EFCC recruitment portal at https://recruitment.efcc.gov.ng. The recruitment listing states that applications are expected to close one week after the commencement of the exercise. Applicants should therefore check the portal for the exact closing date and any additional instructions before applying.

Candidates who are shortlisted will be required to present printed copies of their completed application forms during screening. The commission’s recruitment process is stated to be entirely free of charge. Applicants should not pay recruitment agents, intermediaries or individuals claiming to have connections within the EFCC.

Candidates should also avoid unofficial websites and social media accounts requesting payment or sensitive personal information in exchange for employment opportunities. Qualified Nigerians are encouraged to rely on the designated recruitment portal and official EFCC and Federal Character Commission communication channels for updates on the exercise.

EFCC Opens Recruitment for Nigerians, Sets Age Limits for Four Job Categories

Loading

Continue Reading

Trending