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Gubernatorial Election: Anambra Decides Tomorrow Amid Tension, Heavy Security.

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Anambra State goes to the polls tomorrow to elect a new governor, but the atmosphere remains charged with tension, uncertainty, and anxiety over security, possible vote buying, and the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a credible exercise.

Much of the apprehension surrounds the new INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, who faces his first major national test since assuming office.

Stakeholders and observers are closely watching whether he can outperform his predecessor, Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure was marred by controversies involving the late delivery of materials, BVAS malfunction, logistics breakdowns, and delayed result uploads during the 2023 general elections.

Naija News reports that Amupitan has promised transparency, timely deployment, and renewed discipline in election management.

However, his credibility hinges on how efficiently INEC handles logistics, ensures neutrality, manages security agencies, and curbs widespread vote buying.

Tomorrow’s governorship poll, they say, will reveal whether INEC has made real improvements or remains trapped in entrenched inefficiencies.

2.8 Million Voters, 16 Candidates, Massive Security Presence

Sixteen candidates from various political parties will vie for the top seat, with 2.8 million registered voters expected to participate across 5,720 polling units.

To forestall violence, no fewer than 60,000 security operatives have been deployed. These include personnel from the Police, Army, Navy, Air Force, and Civil Defence.

The Commissioner of Police in charge of election operations, Abayomi Shogunle, confirmed that the police alone deployed 45,000 officers, along with drones, helicopters, tactical teams, and intelligence units.

Shogunle said the deployment should not be interpreted as intimidation.

The increase in security personnel is not to intimidate eligible voters but to ensure effective operations and safety at every polling unit.

“We assure the people of Anambra that the election will be free, fair, transparent and devoid of intimidation,” he stated.

The decision to bar the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, from participating in the exercise has generated mixed reactions.

Opposition parties accuse the state government of previously using the outfit to intimidate voters and influence outcomes, especially in rerun elections for the Anambra South Senatorial and Onitsha State Constituency seats, both won by APGA.

The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has warned security agencies against turning the state into a militarized zone.

In a statement signed by its chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, and two human rights lawyers, Joy Igboeli and Chidimma Udegbunam, the group condemned what it termed “threats of fire and brimstone,” cautioning that such a posture may discourage voter turnout.

According to the organisation, the deployment of armoured tanks, explosives, and heavily armed personnel often creates a war-like environment.

The group said, “Security forces have often made voting environments hostile for vulnerable voters through militarisation and weaponization of civic spaces. These so-called shows of force frighten voters and undermine democratic participation.”

Intersociety urged the police and military to adopt intelligence-driven, discreet, and non-intimidating operations to restore public confidence.

The rights group also expressed deep concern over the continuing decline in voter turnout in Anambra elections:

46% in 1999

25% in 2013

21% in 2017

10.5% in 2021

With 2.82 million registered voters and 2.5 million PVC holders for tomorrow’s exercise, the group warned that another low turnout could further weaken electoral legitimacy.

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Tinubu Makes 2 Fresh Appointments, Senate Takes Action

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President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of Amina Gamawa, representing Bauchi, and Abdullahi Muktar, representing Kaduna, as Commissioners to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

The announcement was made by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, adding that the president forwarded the names of the nominees to the National Assembly for screening and confirmation.

The president’s letter reads in part: “Confirmation of appointment of commissioners for Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 154(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I am pleased to forward for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of the two underlisted nominees as commissioners in the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission.

“Amina Gamawa, as commissioner representing Bauchi State, and Abdullahi Muktar, commissioner representing Kaduna State.

While I hope that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominees in the usual expeditious manner, please accept, distinguished Senate President, distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

Akpabio further referred the letter to the Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs. He said that the committee should report back to the Senate within the next week.

The appointment was one of the numerous appointments that President Tinubu will be making since the commencement of his administration.

Tinubu’s appointment has been criticised, and many issues raised have been addressed.

Nigerians have started reacting to the announcement by the Senate president during Tuesday’s plenary.

Below are some of their reactions:

Adetunji Adewolu called for fairness in the sharing formula: “New names at the revenue table. Nigerians will be watching closely to see if the slices of the national cake get any fairer. #OmoOlofaIna.”

Dan_Baba criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu: “Every day, we keep seeing appointments without a positive impact on the masses. We will continue praying while we patiently wait for 2027.”

Pepperito congratulated the appointee, describing her as a loyal party member: “Once again, to our party lover, stalwart and servant, @gamawa_amina, congratulations. This is one appointment that thoroughly sweetened my belle.”

Idris Garba explained what should be the focus of the government: “The focus should be how revenue will be better managed for the benefit of citizens.”

Oma Ann criticised the administration of President Tinubu:  “Positions filled every day, but no real economic relief. Wetin dey happen.”

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BREAKING: Tinubu Issues Nationwide Message to Nigerians , “We Will Never Surrender”

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will never yield to forces seeking to destabilise its peace, unity, and sovereignty.

The President spoke while hosting religious and traditional leaders for an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

A statement shared via X, by Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu acknowledged the critical role of religious and traditional figures in fostering peace and moral guidance across communities.

“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated, they leave trails of blood in their wake.

But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” he said.

The President emphasised that the government remains committed to protecting citizens and securing the nation from insurgents and other threats to stability.

President Tinubu also reflected on the economic progress since assuming office, highlighting measures to stabilise public finances and support pensioners.

“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty.  I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy,” he stated.

He added that his administration has ensured that no governor struggles to pay salaries and is focused on long-term development in sectors such as agriculture and education to leave a lasting legacy.

In his remarks, Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, praised President Tinubu for bringing together leaders of Nigeria’s major religions, describing the occasion as a symbol of national unity.

He prayed for guidance, protection, peaceful coexistence, and the President’s success. Representing the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe underscored the importance of faith leaders in promoting harmony.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), through Archbishop Daniel Okoh, assured President Tinubu of the church’s continued support for his government’s efforts to transform the economy and strengthen security.

Traditional rulers and religious leaders from all six geopolitical zones attended the event, reinforcing the administration’s message of national unity, peace, and resilience.

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SO SAD: Top APC Chieftain Collapses, Dies In Abuja; Party Reacts 

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed that it is “shocked and deeply saddened” by the death of “a highly respected” party chieftain, Chamberlain Dunkwu.

Dunkwu, president of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, tragically passed away after collapsing at his residence on Saturday morning, March 7, 2026. His sudden death came just hours before he was scheduled to attend the “Swim to the Future” programme, a key talent discovery event he had helped organise at the National Stadium Swimming Pool (Package B) in Abuja.

According to Leadership, sources close to the family confirmed that efforts to revive Dunkwu were unsuccessful.

Apart from leading the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Dunkwu also served as deputy chief of staff (legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. Previously, he was a special adviser on members’ affairs to the Speaker of the 9th House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

In its condolence message, signed by national spokesperson Felix Morka, the APC described Dunkwu as “an energetic, selfless, and loyal party man who contributed enormously to building and strengthening the party in his native Ika federal constituency, Delta State, and beyond.”

The APC’s statement reads on X: “Dr. Dunkwu lived a vibrant life of service and philanthropy that touched many within and beyond his homeland. His exit has created a yawning void that will be difficult to fill. Our Party prays God to grant his immediate family the fortitude to bear this huge loss. And may He comfort all members of the APC family in Ika Federal Constituency, Delta State and around the country at this difficult time.”

It added: “Amazing Grace! Amazing Grace! May His Grace lead you home, and may it be true for you as proclaimed in the old hymnal: “To that old rugged cross I will ever be true, its shame and reproach gladly bear; then he’ll call me someday to my home far away, where his glory forever I’ll share.” Fare thee well, dear compatriot!”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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