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My Tenure As INEC Boss Will Expire This Year – Yakubu

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By Tambaya Julius, Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has officially declared that his tenure as the head of Nigeria’s electoral body will end later in 2025. He made this announcement while speaking at the Extraordinary General Assembly of the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC), held in Banjul, The Gambia.

During his address, Yakubu noted that this was his last participation in an ECONEC gathering in his capacity as INEC Chairman, drawing a close to a significant chapter in Nigeria’s democratic history.

Yakubu who was appointed in November 2015 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Yakubu first assumed office for a five-year term. His mandate was later extended in 2020, granting him a second and final term as the electoral commission’s chairman.

He oversaw the 2019 and 2023 general elections, both of which were mired in controversy and scrutiny, yet marked by landmark reforms and improvements in electoral processes. Under his watch, INEC undertook significant steps towards transparency, including the adoption of new technologies and digital voter registration systems.

Yakubu’s announcement follows a wave of online rumours that suggested he had been removed from office by President Bola Tinubu. These speculations gained traction when INEC posted about Sam Olumekun, who was referred to as the acting chairman, hosting a delegation from the Labour Party, led by Abia State Governor Dr. Alex Otti.

However, these claims were swiftly debunked by the Presidency, and Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, stepped in to clarify the situation. Oyekanmi explained that Olumekun was only acting in a temporary capacity while Yakubu was away in The Gambia for the ECONEC event.

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In his address at the ECONEC assembly, Yakubu extended his gratitude to fellow electoral commission leaders across the ECOWAS region. He applauded the collaborative spirit that has prevailed over the years and highlighted the importance of unity, transparency, and electoral credibility in strengthening democracy.

He acknowledged the challenges faced during his tenure but also celebrated the progress made.

Yakubu further reiterated the importance of continuous engagement among Election Management Bodies (EMBs) in West Africa, especially amid the region’s fluctuating democratic stability.

Yakubu focused his speech on the broader state of democracy in the ECOWAS region. He raised concerns about the recent political developments in four West African countries that have experienced a regression from democratic governance. While he did not name the countries explicitly, his remarks underscored a regional trend that has been cause for alarm among democratic institutions.

He expressed hope that these nations would soon return to democratic rule, supported by strong electoral systems and regional collaboration. He reaffirmed his belief that ECONEC has a vital role in guiding member countries through transitions and ensuring that credible electoral processes are upheld.

Leaders and representatives from EMBs in Benin, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo attended the meeting. They commended Yakubu for his commitment to electoral integrity and the pivotal role he played in fortifying ECONEC’s mission.

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Building Bridges for Security: Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi’s Strategic Partnerships with NYSC, NCMM, and Beyond”

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By Gambo Jagindi

Under the leadership of Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has been making significant strides in protecting the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure. From enhancing security partnerships to protecting cultural heritage and enforcing compliance in the mining sector, the NSCDC has demonstrated its commitment to professionalism and credibility.

One notable achievement is the NSCDC’s collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The two agencies have pledged to intensify their partnership to improve the security of Corps members and facilities across the country. This partnership is a testament to the NSCDC’s dedication to collaborative security efforts.

The NSCDC has also partnered with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) to protect Nigeria’s rich cultural artifacts. This partnership aims to safeguard the nation’s cultural heritage and promote national pride.

In the mining sector, the NSCDC’s Special Mining Marshals have been working tirelessly to enforce compliance with established laws, policies, and regulations. Under Dr. Audi’s leadership, the NSCDC has renewed its commitment to creating a safer and more productive mining sector. The Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals, Oladele Henry Alake, has commended Dr. Audi for the remarkable success achieved by the NSCDC in protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources.

Dr. Audi’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaborations and driving initiatives that enhance the security of Nigeria’s assets. His vision for a more secure Nigeria is inspiring, and the NSCDC’s achievements are a testament to his dedication and expertise.

Let me join other patriotic Nigerians in applauding the commendable efforts of the Commandant General of the NSCDC in safeguarding the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure through strategic partnerships with various organizations. The NSCDC’s collaborative approach has yielded significant results, and it’s imperative to build on this momentum. To further enhance the effectiveness of these partnerships and take national security to the next level, it’s essential for the NSCDC to embark on a massive recruitment drive to boost its manpower.

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With a substantial increase in personnel, the NSCDC can more effectively serve its partners, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM). A larger workforce would enable the NSCDC to provide more comprehensive security coverage, deploying more personnel to critical sectors such as mining, cultural heritage, and national infrastructure. This, in turn, would not only enhance the security of these sectors but also foster more effective collaboration with partner organizations, driving progress and development in the country.

the NSCDC can respond more efficiently to emerging security challenges, provide better support to its partners, and ultimately contribute to a safer and more prosperous Nigeria. I urge the relevant authorities to consider this proposal, recognizing the critical role a well-staffed NSCDC plays in protecting the nation’s assets and interests. Together, we can build a more secure future for our great nation.

As the NSCDC continues to make significant strides in protecting the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure, Dr. Audi’s leadership remains a beacon of hope for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria

Jagindi is a digital media publisher, writes from Abuja via jagindi2016@gmail.com, 07065466754

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Rivers Govt. to revive Songhai Farms

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Rivers State Government has pledged to revive the Songhai Integrated Farms to boost food production and create lasting job opportunities for the youth.

Rivers Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd), stated this during an inspection visit on Saturday to the farm in Bunu Tai, Tai Local Government Area.

He noted that reviving the farms would strengthen food production, ensure food security, and reduce the state’s reliance on imported produce.

Ibas said the initiative would also provide employment, particularly for young people, and contribute positively to the state and national economy.

He added that local farmers would benefit, as the farm’s revival would increase support for agricultural productivity and domestic food output.

Ibas urged community leaders, youths, and women to protect government facilities and work with security agencies to safeguard public assets.

The administrator also visited the ongoing road reconstruction on P-Mac Avenue, Rumuodara, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, expressing satisfaction with the project’s progress.

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Murder: Police Complete Extradition Of Killaboi, To Face Charges

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‎The Nigeria Police Force said it has completed the extradition of Benjamin Best Nnayereugo, widely known as “Killaboi,” from Doha, Qatar, to Nigeria.

Killaboi, who had been on the run for the murder of Augusta Onuwabhagbe, was returned to the country in the early hours of today, Saturday, through the coordinated efforts of the Ministry of Justice, INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters Abuja and the Qatari Judicial Authorities.

‎The extradition followed a petition from the family of the deceased, submitted through their legal representatives, dated 29th September 2024.

A statement by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, said the matter was assigned to INTERPOL NCB Abuja, after which investigations revealed that the suspect murdered Onuwabhagbe, a 21-year-old first-class student of Lead City University, Ibadan, in his residence located at No. 24a Abiola Apooyi Street, Oral Estate, Ajah, Lagos, on 13th July 2023. After committing the crime, he fled Nigeria and later released an online video purporting to confess to the act, a deceptive strategy to derail investigative efforts.

‎Following his declaration as wanted by the NPF Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) on 13th October 2023, an INTERPOL Red Notice was issued for his global apprehension.

The statement said “He was initially arrested in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on 20th October 2023 under the false identity ‘KANU PRINCETON SAMUEL,” but escaped custody during a prison break on 26th November 2023 in Freetown.

“Further intelligence gathering revealed that the suspect continued to evade law enforcement, traversing multiple regions including West Africa, East Asia and the Middle East, under forged identities before eventually relocating to Doha, Qatar on 24th January, 2025. Operating under the alias “TOURE ABDOULAYE” with a fraudulent Guinean passport, he secured illegal employment and concealed his identity.

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“Through robust international cooperation and the use of advanced biometrics, INTERPOL NCB Abuja, in collaboration with INTERPOL NCB Doha, confirmed his identity, leading to his arrest by Qatari authorities in February 2025. An official extradition request, processed via the Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja, was subsequently approved by the Qatari judicial authorities, resulting in his repatriation to Nigeria.”

‎The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, while recognising the strength in the synergy amongst nations to curb trans-border crimes, commended the diligence of INTERPOL NCB Abuja.

He extended appreciation to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Government of Qatar, INTERPOL NCB Doha, and the Nigerian Embassy in Qatar for their invaluable collaboration in securing the fugitive’s return.

‎The Inspector-General of Police further assured the general public of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to ensuring that the suspect faces diligent prosecution, as part of the NPF’s dedication to justice and the safety of all Nigerians.

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