Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has called on the Senate to adopt real-time electronic transmission of election results, describing the reform as essential to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and restoring public confidence in the electoral process.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan said she entered the Senate with the expectations of millions of Nigerians who desire stronger democratic safeguards embedded in the country’s laws.

She stressed that credible elections remain the foundation of democratic stability and effective governance.

According to the senator, real-time electronic transmission of results would enhance transparency and protect the integrity of the electorate’s mandate.

She argued that the measure would help ensure that every vote counts and that election outcomes accurately reflect the will of the people.

“Our democracy must continue to evolve with systems that guarantee transparency, protect the people’s mandate, and inspire confidence in the electoral process,” she said.

Her call comes amid renewed deliberations in the Senate over proposed amendments to the Electoral Act, particularly provisions concerning electronic transmission of election results.

While supporters of the reform see it as a solution to recurring electoral disputes, some lawmakers have raised concerns about infrastructure, security, and logistical preparedness.

Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that Nigerians deserve elections that inspire trust, strengthen national unity, and reduce post-election tensions.

She noted that transparent electoral processes promote political stability by encouraging public acceptance of election outcomes, even in contested races.

Political observers say the debate reflects broader divisions within the political class over the pace and scope of electoral reforms ahead of future general elections.

Civil society organisations and election observers have repeatedly advocated real-time electronic transmission as a tool to curb manipulation and improve electoral credibility.

The senator also framed the issue as one of national cohesion, warning that elections perceived as flawed often deepen divisions and weaken citizens’ faith in democratic institutions.

“Nigeria deserves elections that reflect the genuine will of the people,” she said, adding that democratic legitimacy depends on trust in the process through which leaders emerge.

As the Senate continues consideration of the proposed Electoral Act amendments, the outcome of the debate on electronic transmission is expected to influence public perception of the legislature’s commitment to electoral integrity and democratic reform.

The family of Abuja-based singer Ifunanya Nwangene, popularly known as Nanyah, has released details of her funeral arrangements following her sudden and tragic passing last month.

Nanyah, a 26-year-old native of Enugu State, reportedly died after a snake bite at her residence, a loss that has sparked widespread grief among fans, colleagues in the music industry, and members of the faith communities she actively served.

Funeral activities will begin on Tuesday with a service of songs at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Abule Oshun, Lagos State, followed by a requiem mass and an hour of hymns in her honor on February 12, 2026. The ceremonies will continue on February 13 with a wake keep at the Nwangene family compound in Enugu, while her final interment is scheduled for February 14 in her hometown. A thanksgiving service on February 15 will bring the funeral rites to a close.

These announcements come shortly after a moving tribute organized by the Amemuso Choir, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to celebrate Nanyah’s life through music and shared memories. During the tribute, her brother described her as a resilient and extraordinary soul who excelled in everything she pursued. He recalled her unwavering determination and courage, noting that she fought for her life until her final moments despite facing challenges in accessing adequate medical care.

Nanyah built a loyal following online, amassing nearly 40,000 followers on Instagram, where she shared her passion for music. Her sound, which blended classical, jazz, R&B, and soul, reflected her strong musical foundation. A graduate of the University of Nigeria, Enugu, she served as choir mistress at St. Mulumba’s Catholic Chaplaincy, was an active member of the Amemuso Choir, and competed on The Voice Nigeria four years ago. Her recorded works include The Quiet After Grief, the Nigerian National Anthem, and World Peace.

Nanyah’s untimely death has left a void in the Nigerian music and faith communities, but her legacy will continue to inspire through her recordings, performances, and the lives she touched.

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has warned that the United States may play a more than passive role in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

Dogara made the statements on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels Television, where he analysed Nigeria’s place in the evolving global order and the implications for its democratic process.

He warned that traditional international norms have nosedived, leaving countries to pursue their interests.

“The international order right now has collapsed. The truth is that we are at the point now in history where you are either at the table or you are on the menu”, he said.

While calling for carefulness in global decision-making, he warned that mere participation does not instantly guarantee protection or influence.

“To be very frank, I don’t think being on the table is a guarantee for you not to be on the menu. We have run into a situation where the strongest at the table devours the rest.”

He argued that Nigeria must be deliberate and strategic in securing its place in global affairs.

“If care is not taken, if we don’t do the right thing, if we don’t take all the steps to be at the table, I can guarantee to you that Nigeria’s future may be determined without us,” he added.

Dogara also spoke on the strategic importance of Nigeria to the United States and the wider international community, noting that Nigeria’s stability has implications far beyond its borders.

“The concern is that they [the US] can’t allow Nigeria to go down because if Nigeria goes down, they say the ripple effect is something that can actually change the way presently Africa works.

“It is therefore in their own interest to ensure that something is done. They may not come out clearly to tell you that they will take more than passing interest … 2027 forthcoming elections,” he added.

He said from his observations and interactions, international attention on Nigeria is likely to intensify as the next general elections approach.

“From what I gathered and body language seen, that will likely be the case.”

Mr Dogara also criticised the reported amount paid by the Nigerian government for lobbying services.

“Lobbying is not bad. What I disagree with is the government paying $9m to a US lobby group. As far as I’, concerned, it’s speculative except I see evidence. There is no country in the world that doesn’t have a lobby group here [in the US]. It is not out of place for Nigerian government to engage a lobby group but to pay $9m is quite on the high side,” Mr Dogara added.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has expressed support for retaining real-time electronic transmission of election results, saying Nigerians deserve a transparent electoral process that reflects the people’s will.

She made this statement on Facebook ahead of a crucial Senate session to revisit the controversial Electoral Act amendments.

Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that real-time transmission is vital for enhancing transparency, protecting the people’s mandate, and rebuilding public confidence in the electoral process.

The controversy surrounding the removal of “real-time” from provisions on electronic transmission of results, sparked public backlash and protests.

Critics argue this could weaken electoral safeguards and lead to result manipulation.

The Senate faces growing pressure to reverse its decision, with civil society organisations, opposition leaders, and youth bodies demanding the retention of real-time transmission.

Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State Governor, has said he never had a personal relationship with President Bola Tinubu and he supported his 2023 presidential bid due to party loyalty and political arrangements.

While speaking during an interview on Trust TV on Monday, El-Rufai noted that his involvement stemmed from APC consultations and broader political considerations, including a zoning understanding that made a southern presidency inevitable after Buhari’s tenure.

“I was never Tinubu’s friend. We never had a personal relationship like the one I had with General Buhari of blessed memory.

“I was approached by certain Islamic stakeholders from the Southwest to support the emergence of a Southwest Muslim presidential candidate. That is how the discussions started.

“As governor of Kaduna and one of the founders of APC, I knew there was an understanding that after eight years of Buhari, power would return to the South. It wasn’t about Tinubu; he was merely an accidental beneficiary,” he said.

El-Rufai noted that once Tinubu secured the party’s ticket, he committed fully to the campaign in line with his political principles.

“It is a principle of mine to fight for the candidate of my party in every election, whether I like the candidate or not. The fact that he emerged as the party’s candidate meant I would give everything to ensure he won.”

However, he said disagreements emerged after the election, rooted in differing philosophies of governance and public service.

“We didn’t fall out; we didn’t find areas of agreement. I am in government to serve the public and deliver results, not to enrich myself or appoint cronies.

“The philosophy of this government is contrary to everything I’ve been taught as a Muslim, a northerner, and a Nigerian. They came to govern the cake, to enrich themselves. We are different people, parallel lines that will never meet.”

El-Rufai further disclosed that his decision to reject a ministerial appointment from President Tinubu was based on those same principles.

“If I had accepted the ministerial position that was publicly offered to me, I would have resigned shortly after. Our fundamental philosophies of governance are worlds apart,” he added

Omoyele Sowore, former AAC presidential candidate, has joined #OccupyNASS protests in Abuja, warning security operatives against attacking peaceful demonstrators.

He said the fight for electoral reforms, particularly electronic processes, isn’t new and is a deliberate attempt to undermine credible elections.

“This is an exposition that already existed. It is not new. That is why it is a surprise to everyone that this provision was yanked away from the Electoral Act that Akpabio and his friends are trying to put in place,” he said.

According to the human rights activist, the ruling political class fears free and fair elections because they cannot win under transparent conditions.

“We know why they are doing it. These people cannot win in free and fair elections. But the people have a duty to demand processes that guarantee free, legal and transparent elections,” Sowore added.

While acknowledging debates around electronic transmission of results, Sowore said his preference goes beyond transmission.

“My preference is not even electronic transmission of results, because what gets transmitted at the end of the day is what has already been manipulated. I am more interested in electronic voting,” he said.

He stressed that whatever system Nigerians believe would protect the integrity of their votes must be defended and supported.

“Whatever people think in their minds that can protect the integrity of their votes, we must defend and support it,” he added.

Sowore warned security agencies that their constitutional role is to protect citizens, not to repress peaceful protests.

“It is their job to protect the country, not to attack peaceful protesters. I have warned them that if they try that, they are starting something they cannot predict how it will end,” he said.

Sowore insisted only radical change can resolve Nigeria’s political challenges, dismissing gradual reforms.

The activist sees the protests as a growing consciousness among Nigerians, urging collective action to reclaim democratic accountability.

The Anambra State Government on Monday suspended the headteachers of nine public schools for two weeks following an inspection that revealed alarmingly low pupil turnout.

The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Vera Nwadinobi, who led the visit to monitor school attendance and compliance with the state directive requiring all schools to open fully on Mondays.

While teachers were present in most schools, Nwadinobi expressed concern that student attendance was extremely poor. Some schools had no pupils at all, while others recorded as few as two to five students.

At Union Primary School, Ukpo, only three pupils were present, and Walter Eze Secondary School, Ukpo, had no students. Aguoji Primary School, Ifitedunu, had five pupils, while Hilltop Primary School, Ifitedunu, recorded three.

In Idemili North, Chukwurah Primary School, Abatete, and Umunebo Primary School, Nteje, had zero students. Other affected schools included Uzubi Primary School, Eziowelle, Union Primary School, Eziowelle, and Central School, Atani, in Ogbaru LGA.

Following the inspection, Nwadinobi stated that Governor Chukwuma C. Soludo approved the two-week suspension of the headteachers.

She said the suspended officers were directed to hand over immediately to the next most senior officials to ensure uninterrupted administration.

“This action underscores the state government’s zero tolerance for negligence and its firm commitment to restoring discipline, accountability, and full academic engagement in public schools,” Nwadinobi said.

The inspection follows an executive order issued on January 24 abolishing Monday closures linked to sit-at-home directives.

Earlier, ASUBEB had warned that teachers or non-teaching staff who fail to comply risk partial or total salary forfeiture, as stated in a letter dated January 22, signed by the board’s secretary, Loveline Mgbemena.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo is reportedly supporting the presidential ambition of Labour Party (LP) 2023 candidate Peter Obi, amid growing discussions around a potential joint ticket with former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso ahead of the 2027 elections.

Sources say the push for an Obi–Kwankwaso alliance spans party lines, involving senior opposition politicians, power brokers, and retired military officers.

The idea, inspired by the 2023 election results in which both candidates had largely regional performances, is seen as a strategy to build a credible opposition capable of challenging the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, confirmed the former president’s continued support for Obi but denied knowledge of any directive to ADC leaders regarding a joint ticket.

“I can confirm his support for Obi’s presidential ambition,” Akinyemi said, adding that he was unaware of any formal discussions with the ADC on the pairing.
Within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the idea remains informal.

A senior party member told Daily Trust that while the Obi–Kwankwaso ticket is being debated in opposition circles, it has not been officially adopted as party policy.

“Many leaders believe that if Obi had run with Kwankwaso in 2023, they might have won. It’s being discussed, but it’s not a formal agenda within the ADC,” the source explained.

The source further noted that the ADC’s rising profile has attracted interest from various opposition factions, including segments of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“For Obi’s supporters to insist on ‘Obi or nothing,’ there must be behind-the-scenes assurances,” the insider said.

The source added that the party is keen to secure a consensus direction to avoid fragmentation post-primaries, positioning the ADC as a potential rallying point for opposition unity.

With strategic discussions ongoing and the influence of prominent Nigerians, many believe a joint Obi–Kwankwaso ticket could present a strong alternative to the APC, especially as Atiku Abubakar may continue to face internal challenges within the PDP.

By Agency Report

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday upheld the suspension of Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan saying that the Senate acted within its powers when it suspended her.

Mrs Akpoti- Uduaghan represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.

Delivering judgment in an appeal filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan challenging the judgment of the Federal High Court, the appeal court held that disciplinary action is correct according to the rules of the House.

In a unanimous decision by a three-member panel, it said that it was satisfied that neither the Appellant’s parliamentary privilege nor her constitutional rights were breached as a result of her suspension from the Senate.

Justice Abba Bello Mohammed, who read the judgment held that, from the provision of Section 66(4) of the Senate’s standing rules, the Senate has the power to invoke disciplinary action to ensure orderliness in the conduct of Senate’s proceedings.

The court however, vacated the contempt proceeding and N5 million fine that were awarded against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan over the satirical apology she made to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

The appellate court held that the Senate President was not wrong to have denied her, who was not on the official seat that was allotted to her during plenary on February 20, 2025, the opportunity to speak.

It held that the Senate President is empowered by the Rules to allocate seats to members, adding that lawmakers are only allowed to speak from seats allocated to them.

The appellate court held that, Akpoti-Uduaghan was wrong on the Feb. 20, 2025 incident when the Senate President allocated a new seat to her and refused to accept the order.

The court also said that the claim of Natasha that she was not given prior notice on the change of seat was unattainable because there was no provision for prior notification as she claimed.

The court also held that, the refusal of Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan to appear before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Petition and Privileges did not help her matter.

It also dismissed her claims that her suspension was carried out in violation of an order by Justice Obiora Egwuatu .

It added that, since Justice Egwuatu recused himself and the matter started afresh by Justice Binta Nyako, the order of Justice Egwuatu waslonger subsisting.

The court however, faulted the contempt charge against Akpoti-Uduaghan and the N5 million fine imposed on her by Justice Binta Nyako.

NAN

By Agency Report

The Police Command in Benue on Monday confirmed the kidnap of nine worshippers at Ojije in Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Edet Udeme, told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on the telephone in Makurdi that the victims were abducted at a night vigil.

Udeme said the victims were worshipping at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije, when the incident occurred.

She said the commissioner of police has deployed all the tactical teams in the state to the area to ensure their safe release.

Udeme further said that the command would continue to ensure that Benue residents were safe at all times.

NAN

Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi has joined protests in Abuja against the Senate’s rejection of mandatory electronic transmission of election results.

Amaechi, accompanied by his son, a medical doctor, emphasized that leaders should lead from the front, especially on critical issues like electoral transparency.

He alleged the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) opposes electronic transmission because it fears losing elections.

Amaechi questioned why the APC would fear electronic transmission, given its claimed dominance with 31 governors and prominent defectors from opposition parties.

“I believe that the opposition parties should come out—PDP, ADC, everybody should be out—to protest against the attempt of one party,” Amaechi said.

“If we come out, and they say the opposition has hijacked (the protest), what is APC doing? Are they not hijacking? What are they afraid of? I thought they said they have 31 governors. Tinubu is not Jonathan. The only way a good politician will know he has done well is by the people.”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerians to rise up and join the protests, arguing that all opposition parties should unite against the Senate’s decision.

However, the Senate is set to hold an emergency plenary session today, amid heightened security and public pressure.

Civil society groups and opposition parties have vowed to continue protests until the decision is reversed.

Six governorship aspirants from Benue State’s Kunav bloc in Vandeikya Local Government Area have announced plans to resist Governor Hyacinth Alia’s re-election bid in 2027, citing poor governance and escalating insecurity.

The group made the announcement during a joint press briefing held over the weekend in Makurdi.

The event was themed “Benue at 50: Reflection, Responsibility and the Future We Must Reclaim.”

Speaking to newsmen, the aspirants — Professor Dennis Ityavyar, Hon. Joseph Waya, Professor Paul Angya, Professor Terhemba Shija, Rt. Hon. Dominic Terkaa Ucha and ESV Godwin Ityoachimin — argued that despite substantial financial inflows and the powers vested in the state government, Benue has continued to drift as it marks its 50th anniversary.

They argued that the state’s ₦20.43 billion internally generated revenue in 2024 and over ₦400 billion from FAAC don’t reflect in public services, with many MDAs poorly funded and lacking transparency.

The aspirants highlighted rising insecurity, referencing a recent attack on Abande community market that killed 17 people.

Meanwhile, governor Alia’s spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, has dismissed the claims as politically driven, citing reforms in public finance, security, and infrastructure.

He said the government has blocked revenue leakages, eliminated payroll in fraud, and invested in agro-industrial development, education, and community security.

The Senate on Monday reiterated that borrowing remains inevitable to fund Nigeria’s 2026 budget, which proposes total expenditure of N58.47 trillion against projected revenue of N33.19 trillion, leaving a deficit of about N25.91 trillion.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola, said the government cannot realistically meet infrastructure, security, and social obligations without deficit financing.

He stressed, however, that the era of wasteful, consumption-driven borrowing must end.

“Nigeria cannot help but continue borrowing because revenue inflows are unpredictable and development needs are enormous.

What matters is how we borrow, how deficits are funded, and how borrowed resources are utilised,” Adeola said.

Debt servicing alone is expected to consume N15.90 trillion.

To avoid crowding out private-sector credit, the federal government intends to rely on external financing, asset optimisation, privatisation, public-private partnerships (PPPs) and infrastructure concessioning.

Adeola also called for full removal of electricity subsidies, warning that partial reforms would continue to drain public finances.

He reaffirmed that the National Assembly will no longer approve budget rollovers, citing repeated delays as a cause of poor budget outcomes.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, described the 2026 budget as a moral and historical test for the nation.

“A budget is a moral document. We must convert allocations into tangible outcomes that Nigerians can see and feel,” he said.

Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, highlighted that the 2026 budget aligns with government priorities and is designed to deploy limited national resources efficiently, while acknowledging public frustration over rising living costs.

Fiscal policy expert Dr. Olatilewa Adebajo warned that rising deficits could become unsustainable unless revenue mobilisation is strengthened and the Fiscal Responsibility Act strictly enforced.

Accountant-General Shamseldeen Olujimi emphasised shifting from allocation-driven budgeting to impact-focused implementation, measuring success by functioning schools, operational health centres, reliable power supply, and job creation.

Meanwhile, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Jumoke Oduwole, raised concerns over her ministry’s N2.72 billion capital allocation for 2026, describing it as inadequate to drive Nigeria’s industrialisation, trade expansion, and investment attraction agenda.

She appealed for a targeted increase, noting that the ministry’s interventions had already attracted $21 billion in capital importation in the first 10 months of 2025, up from $12 billion in 2024 and under $4 billion in 2023.

Senators Umar Sadiq and Francis Fadahunsi stressed the ministry’s centrality to the administration’s goal of a $1 trillion economy and called for clear demonstration of its impact on jobs, exports, and industrial growth

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio, blaming him for the controversy surrounding the Electoral Act amendment.

While speaking during an interview on Trust TV, El-Rufai stated that Akpabio is the problem, not the Senate, and described him as a “scumbag” serving the interests of powerful political forces, particularly President Bola Tinubu.

“The problem is not the Senate. Akpabio is the problem,” El-Rufai said, adding that, “by every standard, he is a scumbag.”

El-Rufai urged senators opposed to the amendment to unite and take a firm stand against it, saying they must “come together, protest, and stop it from happening.”

He dismissed the title “distinguished” often used for senators, citing his long-standing relationship with Akpabio since the 1990s as grounds for speaking candidly.

This is coming following the removal of real-time electronic transmission of results, with critics arguing it weakens safeguards against electoral manipulation.

The Senate is reconvening today to address the issue, with protesters demanding the restoration of real-time transmission.

At least nine worshippers were abducted by suspected bandits in the early hours of Sunday during a vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon District of Ado Local Government Area of Benue State.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that the incident occurred around 2 a.m. while the church was observing a vigil as part of a 30-day religious programme.

Confirming the incident, the National Publicity Secretary of the Ufia Development Association in Ado LGA, Comrade Jude Onwe, said the victims included women and youths.

“Around 2 a.m., nine worshippers, including women and youths, were abducted from St. John’s Catholic Church while they were at the vigil,” Onwe said.

The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunday Oche, also confirmed the abduction and expressed concern that the church failed to involve security agencies despite prior warnings.

“We received the sad news of the abduction, and I have mobilised all the security agencies. We are working seriously,” Oche said.

He urged residents to always involve security personnel in night activities, warning that failure to do so exposes communities to risk.

“Our concern is that people refuse to adhere to advice to involve the police whenever a night activity, whether a marriage, burial or festival, goes past 9 p.m.,” he added.

Reacting to the incident, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Udeme Edet, said tactical teams had been deployed to the area.

“Security personnel are on the trail of the abductors, and efforts to rescue the worshippers are ongoing,” Edet said.

The abduction adds to growing security concerns in Benue State, which has witnessed repeated violent attacks in recent years, including the June 2025 massacre in Yelwata that reportedly claimed about 200 lives and attracted national and international condemnation.

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday night brokered a fresh truce between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, following a closed-door meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Presidency officials familiar with the meeting confirmed that although the two political rivals arrived separately at the Villa, they departed together in the same vehicle after the President’s intervention, a development described as a symbolic signal of reconciliation.

“Both of them did not come together. Governor Fubara arrived first, while Wike came later. But after the meeting with the President, they left together in the same vehicle,” a source said. “That alone suggests that some level of settlement was reached.”

Another official confirmed the meeting, saying President Tinubu met with both leaders late Sunday night but declined to disclose details of the discussions.

“Yes, he met them last night. It is true. He spoke to both of them, and they settled, but I cannot say what he told them,” the source said.

Earlier reports indicated that Governor Fubara accompanied Wike to his residence in Guzape, Abuja, after leaving the Villa.

The meeting signals a possible turning point in the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, which has disrupted governance in the oil-rich state for nearly two years.

The rift between Wike and his former political ally, Fubara, began shortly after the governor assumed office in May 2023.

Tensions escalated in October when lawmakers loyal to Wike in the Rivers State House of Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor.

In response, Fubara ordered the demolition of the Assembly complex following a mysterious fire incident and relocated legislative activities to temporary chambers, deepening the political impasse.

In December 2023, President Tinubu intervened to broker a fragile peace deal that saw Fubara concede several political appointments to Wike’s loyalists. However, the agreement later collapsed, leading to renewed hostilities.

The crisis reached a peak on March 18, 2025, when President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating insecurity and administrative paralysis. The declaration suspended the governor’s executive powers for an initial six-month period and led to the appointment of a sole administrator, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.).

The emergency rule was lifted in September 2025 following another presidential intervention.

Despite the lifting of emergency rule, tensions persisted between Governor Fubara and the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly, with lawmakers issuing a fresh impeachment notice against the governor in recent months.

Sunday’s meeting at the Presidential Villa is seen as the latest effort by the Presidency to restore political stability in Rivers State.

Nigeria will continue to rely on borrowing to finance its widening budget deficit, the Senate has disclosed, as lawmakers and fiscal experts warn that rising public debt and weak revenue mobilisation could deepen the country’s economic vulnerabilities.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senator Solomon Adeola, revealed this on Monday during the public hearing on the 2026 Appropriation Bill at the National Assembly in Abuja.

According to Adeola, the 2026 budget proposes total expenditure of N58.47 trillion against projected revenue of N33.19 trillion, leaving a deficit of N25.27 trillion.

“Debt servicing alone is projected to consume N15.90 trillion,” he said, adding that Nigeria cannot avoid borrowing given unpredictable revenue inflows and enormous development needs.

“The key issue is not whether we borrow, but how responsibly we manage these deficits,” Adeola stated.

He said the National Assembly would intensify scrutiny of service-wide votes and vowed that no federal budget would be allowed to extend beyond December 31 of any fiscal year, citing persistent weak implementation and abandoned projects.

“Never again will budget extensions be granted. We must enforce strict timelines and ensure that policies translate into real outcomes,” he said.

Adeola added that future borrowings would be carefully managed to avoid crowding out private-sector credit, with preference given to external loans, public-private partnerships, asset optimisation, privatisation and Eurobond issuances.

He further stressed that no government agency would benefit from service-wide votes without proper accountability, noting that every expenditure item would undergo strict scrutiny to ensure transparency, efficiency and fiscal discipline.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Health, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Health received only N36 million of the N218 billion appropriated for its 2025 capital expenditure, citing severe funding constraints.

Pate made the disclosure during the ministry’s 2026 budget defence before the House of Representatives Committee on Healthcare Services, explaining that the shortfall made it impossible to execute capital projects.

According to him, while the ministry’s personnel allocation for 2025 was fully released and utilised, capital spending suffered due to the bottom-up cash planning system operated by the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation and delays in counterpart funding.

He said the delays prevented the ministry from accessing donor-supported funds tied to capital projects, stalling implementation beyond the ministry’s control.

Pate noted that the health sector’s planning framework is guided by Vision 20:2020, the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2021–2025 and the National Strategic Health Development Plan II, all aligned with the National Health Act and the National Health Policy.

He added that Universal Health Coverage remains central to the ministry’s mandate, particularly in strengthening primary healthcare delivery.

On the 2026 budget proposal, the minister said it was prepared in line with the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper and processed through the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System to ensure needs-based resource allocation.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services, Amos Magaji, directed the minister to submit detailed documentation on donor funds received by the ministry and their utilisation.