In Summary: Electoral Act controversy, Kwara attack, new political parties, Trump and Remi Tinubu, et al

We approved transmission of results, not transfer, Abaribe insists

Enyinnaya Abaribe, senator representing Abia South, has insisted that the Senate approved electronic transmission of election results in real time, not “transfer,” warning that reports suggesting otherwise put his integrity at stake.

Speaking at a media briefing at the National Assembly alongside 13 senators, Abaribe said the decision followed extensive consultations with INEC and civil society groups, and was agreed during an executive session and at plenary, although the Votes and Proceedings are yet to be adopted before harmonisation with the House can proceed.

Aliyu Ningi, senator representing Bauchi, said the reform process involved about 27 committee sessions since 2024, describing negative public reactions as unfair, even as controversy persists over the Senate’s subsequent replacement of “transmission” with “transfer” during clause-by-clause consideration in line with the 2022 Electoral Act. Nigerians are worried that the development at the Senate portends danger for the 2027 general election.

UN, US condemn Kwara attack as Turkey pledges military support

The United Nations, the United States and Türkiye have condemned the killings in Kwara State, describing the attack on Woro and neighbouring Nuku communities as “heinous.” About 75 people were confirmed dead, although some reports suggest a higher casualty figure, with several others injured and residents displaced.

Antonio Guterres, UN secretary-general, said he “strongly” condemned the February 3 terrorist attack, extending condolences to the families of victims and wishing the injured a speedy recovery. The United States Mission in Nigeria also denounced the violence, expressing sympathy to affected families and welcoming President Bola Tinubu’s directive to deploy security forces and provide relief to the community.

Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was “deeply saddened” by the incident, strongly condemning the attack and pledging continued support for Nigeria in its fight against terrorism.

Gunmen had stormed the two communities on Tuesday, killing dozens, burning shops and a traditional ruler’s residence, and forcing residents to flee. The Inspector-General of Police has since ordered the deployment of tactical and intelligence assets to Kaiama Local Government Area, while the Nigerian Police Force confirmed a manhunt is underway.

Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State governor, described the incident as a “pure massacre” and said at least 75 victims had been buried. President Tinubu has ordered the deployment of an army battalion under Operation Savannah Shield, as political groups, including a faction of the People’s Democratic Party and the Northern States Governors’ Forum, condemned the killings as barbaric and a sign of worsening insecurity.

183 worshippers regain freedom in Kaduna

One hundred and eighty-three worshippers abducted during a church service in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have regained their freedom, 18 days after they were kidnapped by bandits on January 18. The victims were received on Thursday by Governor Uba Sani at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, in what he described as “a day of joy for the state.”

Sani said the safe return of all the victims reflected sustained efforts by the state government and security agencies, noting that President Bola Tinubu personally monitored developments while Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser, coordinated rescue operations. He also commended the DSS, the Nigerian Army and the Police for what he called exceptional collaboration.

Providing details, the governor said 183 persons were abducted, with 11 released earlier and hospitalised, 83 freed days later, and the remaining 89 rescued on Wednesday. “I can say without contradiction that all those abducted have returned,” he said, adding that even one missing person would have been unacceptable.

The governor disclosed that the victims would undergo medical examination and psychosocial support before reuniting with their families. He also revealed plans for a military base around the Kajuru–Kachia axis, road construction linking Kurmin Wali to the main road, and the building of a hospital and skills acquisition centre.

Caleb Maaji, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna, described the development as a divine intervention, thanking the government and security agencies for ensuring all victims returned safely. Some of the worshippers recounted trekking for six days in the forest, while earlier police denial of the abduction drew criticism before authorities later confirmed the incident.

INEC registers two new political parties

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the registration of two new political parties, the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), bringing the total number of parties in the country to 21.

Joash Amupitan, INEC chairman, disclosed this at the commission’s first quarterly consultative meeting with political party stakeholders for 2026, his first such engagement since assuming office in October 2025. He said the DLA completed a rigorous verification process, while the NDC was registered in compliance with a Federal High Court order.

The meeting was attended by major parties, including the People’s Democratic Party led by Nyesom Wike, Abdulrahman Mohammed and Samuel Anyanwu, as well as the Labour Party led by Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha. Amupitan raised concerns over internal disputes within some parties but reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

‘Very respected woman’, Trump praises Remi Tinubu at US prayer breakfast in Washington

Donald Trump, United States president, on Thursday praised Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s first lady, as a “very respected” Christian leader while recognising her at the US National Prayer Breakfast in Washington.

“We’re honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria. Very respected woman,” Trump said while acknowledging her presence at the event.

Tinubu’s appearance comes months after Trump redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged Christian persecution, prompting diplomatic tensions and intensified engagements between Abuja and Washington.

The renewed ties have included US airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Sokoto and a $4.5 million lobbying contract with Washington-based DCI Group to counter genocide allegations and bolster security cooperation.

Taofeek Oyedokun is a correspondent at BusinessDay with years of experience reporting on political economy, public policy, migration, environment/climate change, and social justice. A graduate of Political Science from the University of Lagos, he has also earned multiple professional certificates in journalism and media-related training. Known for his clear, data-driven reporting, Oyedokun covers a wide range of national and international socioeconomic issues, bringing depth, balance, and public-interest focus to his work.

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