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All Eyes On Amupitan: The Man Who Must Rebuild Nigerians’ Trust In Elections.
As Professor Mahmood Yakubu prepares to end his tenure as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) next month, Nigeria’s democracy stands at a critical crossroads. His successor, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), will inherit both the reforms Yakubu initiated and the mistrust they generated—a delicate blend of technological progress, political pressure, and public expectation.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to Nivo News, Amupitan faces the daunting task of not just organizing credible elections, but restoring Nigerians’ confidence in the electoral process itself. The mood in Abuja is tense yet hopeful, as citizens and political observers anticipate what direction the new leadership will take.
Many Nigerians believe that beyond technology, trust remains the foundation of democracy. The introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) once rekindled optimism for transparency. However, the 2023 general election exposed cracks in that optimism—slow result uploads, missing data, and unexplained “technical glitches” undermined the very credibility the innovations were meant to safeguard.
Experts insist that technology alone cannot restore faith. “Technology doesn’t build trust; people do,” noted election observer Ezenwa Nwagwu. “Credibility comes from transparency and effective communication.” Others argue that INEC’s biggest challenge is public perception of neutrality. “If the leadership isn’t seen as impartial, everything else collapses,” said former INEC director, Prof. Okey Ibeanu.
Analysts have emphasized that the next chairman must demonstrate unquestionable integrity, independence, and courage. “He must be de-tribalized, firm, and immune to political pressure,” remarked democracy advocate Austin Aigbe. “The survival of Nigeria’s democracy depends on it.”
Despite criticisms, Prof. Yakubu’s tenure was historic—he completed two full electoral cycles, introduced technological reforms, and expanded polling access nationwide. Yet, his leadership was often marred by allegations of inconsistency and silence in the face of controversy. As one insider put it, “Fairness isn’t just about doing right; it’s about being seen to do right.”
Logistics, funding, and security also remain pressing concerns. INEC must deploy staff and materials across 176,000 polling units in a single day—an operation often hindered by poor infrastructure and inadequate funding. Without early and sufficient resources, experts warn that even the best reforms will remain theoretical.
Across Africa, examples from Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa show that electoral credibility depends as much on openness as on innovation. Kenya’s real-time results publishing and South Africa’s institutional independence offer models Nigeria could emulate.
Observers also stress the need for improved communication. During the 2023 elections, INEC’s delayed explanations created an information vacuum that bred distrust. “Even if you’re right, silence destroys confidence,” said a senior journalist in Abuja. The next chairman must therefore act as the commission’s chief communicator, providing clear, timely, and accessible updates to the public.
Security is another vital issue. In 2023, INEC recorded more than 40 incidents of violence, including attacks on electoral offices. Experts have urged the incoming chairman to collaborate with security agencies for proactive planning and peace-building in volatile regions.
Beyond operational matters, inclusivity remains key. Voter accessibility for people with disabilities, pregnant women, and internally displaced persons must improve. Advocates argue that a truly democratic process must serve all citizens, regardless of physical or social limitations.
Ultimately, Amupitan’s greatest challenge will be transforming scepticism into faith. For millions of Nigerians, the question remains painfully simple: Will my vote count this time?
According to Nivo News, if the next INEC chairman can guarantee transparency, accountability, and independence, he would not only restore confidence in the system but also strengthen the foundations of Nigeria’s democracy.
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Lyon Win Five-Goal Thriller Against Crystal Palace As Sunderland Strike Late [Europa League Full Results].
Lyon took the lead in the 10th minute when Corentin Tolisso reacted quickly to a loose ball following a corner kick.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The French side extended their advantage in first-half stoppage time, with Ernest Nuamah finishing off Keito Nakamura’s cross after an impressive attacking move.
Crystal Palace reduced the deficit shortly after the restart through Yeremy Pino, who converted a well-executed set-piece routine.
However, Lyon restored their two-goal advantage when Pavel Sulc scored with a close-range flick.
Daichi Kamada brought Palace back into contention with nine minutes remaining, but Lyon defended their lead to secure their second consecutive victory in the league phase.
Sunderland Snatch Dramatic Late Victory
Sunderland produced a late comeback to defeat Torreense 2-1 in Portugal, with Noah Sadiki scoring the decisive goal in the 93rd minute.
The hosts took the lead in the 37th minute after Volnei Feltes beat his marker before unleashing a long-range effort beyond Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris responded by introducing Granit Xhaka and Enzo Le Fee shortly before the hour mark, helping his side regain control of the contest.
Jules Ahoka subsequently equalised for the visitors before Sadiki struck deep into stoppage time to complete the comeback.
The closing stages were marked by a lengthy VAR review that ultimately denied Sunderland a late penalty, but the visitors still left Portugal with all three points.
Leverkusen, AC Milan Record Convincing Wins
Bayer Leverkusen moved to the top of the standings after defeating Lech Poznan 4-0.
Patrik Schick scored twice from the penalty spot in the first half, while Malik Tillman also found the net before the interval. Ibrahim Maza completed the scoring late in the game.
AC Milan recorded an identical scoreline away against Salzburg, with teenage forward Alphadjo Cisse netting a hat-trick. Goncalo Ramos added the fourth goal in the 72nd minute.
However, Filippo Terracciano’s red card took some shine off Milan’s emphatic victory.
Other Europa League Results
Elsewhere, Bournemouth defeated Sturm Graz 3-0, while Juventus claimed a 2-1 away victory over Celta Vigo. Olympiacos also secured a narrow 1-0 win against Marseille.
Real Sociedad were held to a 1-1 draw by Union Saint-Gilloise, while Dinamo Zagreb defeated Anderlecht 1-0.
Benfica cruised to a 4-1 victory over Celtic, AZ Alkmaar beat Hapoel Be’er Sheva 2-1, and Besiktas edged Hoffenheim 3-2 away from home.
Other results saw Celje lose 0-3 to Omonia, Ferencvaros defeat Plzen 2-1, Jagiellonia beat Ararat-Armenia 3-1, and Nijmegen draw 1-1 with Levski Sofia.
2026/2027 Europa League Matchday 2 Results
- AZ Alkmaar 2-1 Hapoel Be’er Sheva
- Celje 0-3 Omonia
- Lech Poznan 0-4 Bayer Leverkusen
- Lyon 3-2 Crystal Palace
- Union Saint-Gilloise 1-1 Real Sociedad
- Salzburg 0-4 AC Milan
- Sparta Prague 1-1 Lillestrom
- Torreense 1-2 Sunderland
- Benfica 4-1 Celtic
- Bournemouth 3-0 Sturm Graz
- Celta Vigo 1-2 Juventus
- Dinamo Zagreb 1-0 Anderlecht
- Ferencvaros 2-1 Plzen
- Hoffenheim 2-3 Besiktas
- Jagiellonia 3-1 Ararat-Armenia
- Marseille 0-1 Olympiacos
- Nijmegen 1-1 Levski Sofia
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has proposed a schedule for President Bola Tinubu’s campaign rallies across 12 states ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to the proposed timetable, the campaign is expected to commence in Kaduna State on October 24, 2026, and conclude with a grand rally in Lagos State on January 9, 2027.
reports that the planned rallies will cover Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, with Tinubu scheduled to attend campaign events in 12 locations across the country.
Other proposed destinations include Port Harcourt, Jos, Ibadan, Maiduguri, Enugu, Bauchi, Sokoto, Asaba, Kano and Yola.
Full List of Proposed Campaign Dates and Locations
The proposed timetable outlines the following dates and venues for Tinubu’s campaign appearances:
- Kaduna, Kaduna State – Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Jos, Plateau State – Saturday, November 14, 2026
- Ibadan, Oyo State – Saturday, November 21, 2026
- Maiduguri, Borno State – Wednesday, November 25, 2026
- Enugu, Enugu State – Saturday, November 28, 2026
- Bauchi, Bauchi State – Sunday, November 29, 2026
- Sokoto, Sokoto State – Friday, December 4, 2026
- Asaba, Delta State – Saturday, December 12, 2026
- Kano, Kano State – Thursday, December 17, 2026
- Yola, Adamawa State – Monday, January 4, 2027
- Lagos, Lagos State – Saturday, January 9, 2027
Momodu Questions Tinubu’s Commitment to Free and Fair Elections
Meanwhile, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has expressed doubts about President Tinubu’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections in 2027, claiming that even some of the President’s supporters harbour similar concerns.
reports that the veteran journalist made the remarks during an interview on Arise News’ Prime Time programme.
Momodu alleged that some Nigerians fear Tinubu might be unwilling to relinquish power if he loses the next presidential election.
He, however, insisted that Nigerians would resist any attempt by the President to remain in office after an electoral defeat.
The ADC chieftain further claimed that some governors elected on the APC platform, alongside judges and legislators, were apprehensive about the possible outcome of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during the interview, Momodu said many Nigerians would question whether Tinubu could be trusted to oversee a credible and transparent electoral process.
He argued that some supporters of the President were confident of victory but, according to him, struggled to explain the basis for their optimism beyond their belief in Tinubu’s political influence.
Momodu also maintained that his confidence in the opposition’s efforts was not based solely on his party, but on what he described as the growing determination of ordinary Nigerians who do not want Tinubu to secure another term.
He recalled Tinubu’s political struggle to win a second term as governor of Lagos State, suggesting that opposition figures were also working behind the scenes to challenge his bid for re-election as President.
The ADC chieftain added that some political figures who publicly support Tinubu were allegedly concerned about the current political climate but were reluctant to express their reservations openly.
He concluded by describing the President’s position within the political establishment as one that many were unwilling to challenge directly.
Momodu’s remarks reflect his personal assessment of the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections and his criticism of the Tinubu administration.
A 15-member delegation from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Friday, October 16, to conduct a final inspection of facilities ahead of the 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly and the 2026 CAF Awards.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The delegation, led by CAF Head of Safety and Security, Dr Christian Emeruwa, will assess venues and related arrangements in Lagos and Abuja to ensure they meet the standards required for hosting the two major continental events.
During their visit to Lagos, the CAF officials will inspect the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, Eko Hotel and Suites, and Murtala Muhammed International Airport. They are also scheduled to meet with representatives of the Lagos State Government.
The team will then proceed to Abuja, where it will assess the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The delegation is also expected to pay courtesy visits to the Chairman and Director-General of the National Sports Commission.
A six-member delegation from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by Dr Ademola Olajire, will accompany the CAF officials throughout the inspection exercise.
The visit follows an earlier assessment conducted between July 31 and August 4, during which initial operational agreements were established.
The final inspection will focus on verifying the readiness of the venues, security provisions and logistical arrangements to ensure the successful hosting of both events.
The 48th CAF Ordinary General Assembly is scheduled to hold on Saturday, November 21, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Meanwhile, the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony is slated for Monday, December 7, at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos.
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