Fellow Press

Author: THE FELLOW PRESS

  • INEC Warns 2027 Poll May Not Be Perfect

    INEC Warns 2027 Poll May Not Be Perfect

    The head of Nigeria’s electoral body says the 2027 general election will not be flawless, even though results can be sent electronically.

    Independent National Electoral Commission chairman Joash Amupitan told a live town hall on Sunday that the commission has the capacity to transmit results but cannot promise a “100 per cent perfect election”.

    Speaking during the televised programme hosted by Seun Okinbaloye and organised with Yiaga Africa, he urged voters to manage expectations while assuring them that the commission would deliver the best process possible.

    He said electronic transmission is achievable, but real-time reporting remains difficult in remote areas. He cited a recent council poll in the Federal Capital Territory, where results from a ward in Kuje arrived a day late due to distance, terrain and weak communication signals.

    According to him, officials lost phone contact with staff in the area until a team was sent physically to confirm their safety and retrieve results. He said this showed that logistics, not technology alone, often determine how smooth elections run.

    Amupitan stressed that elections remain central to democracy and quoted Abraham Lincoln to underline the power of voting. He warned that poor voter awareness can threaten national stability and called for stronger civic education.

    He also said the commission helped shape provisions in the Electoral Act 2026, including pushing for mandatory electronic transmission during drafting discussions. Still, he noted that defining “real time” transmission remains a technical and operational challenge.

    The chairman admitted recent polls exposed human and logistical errors but said reforms were under way. He added that rising voter awareness and public demand for accountability should help improve future elections.

    He expressed confidence that the 2027 vote would be the best Nigeria has held, despite limits that make absolute perfection unlikely.

  • US Jet Crashes in Kuwait During Missile Attack

    US Jet Crashes in Kuwait During Missile Attack

    A US fighter jet has crashed in Kuwait during a missile attack blamed on Iran, as fighting in the region intensifies.

    Footage circulating online shows the aircraft descending in flames near the Ali Al Salem Air Base, about six miles from the installation. The pilot reportedly ejected and landed safely. The condition of the second crew member, the weapons systems officer, remains unclear.

    Officials have not confirmed the cause of the crash. It is unknown whether the jet was hit by hostile fire, struck by defensive missiles, or suffered a mechanical fault.

    Military sources say three American troops have been killed and five injured since operations began on Saturday. Donald Trump vowed retaliation for the deaths but warned further casualties were likely as the conflict continues.

    The situation widened on Monday after Israel launched strikes in Lebanon following attacks by Hezbollah. The group said its actions were in response to the reported killing of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei.

    Analysts say the crash underscores the risk of escalation as multiple forces operate in the same airspace. They warn that miscalculation or equipment failure could quickly widen the conflict.

  • Tinubu Hails Adeboye at 84, Calls Him National Gift

    Tinubu Hails Adeboye at 84, Calls Him National Gift

    President Bola Tinubu and and wife Oluremi Tinubu have praised Enoch Adeboye as “one of our nation’s greatest gifts” as the cleric marked his 84th birthday on Sunday.

    In a joint tribute issued by the presidency, the couple described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as a spiritual pillar whose prayers continue to support Nigeria. They said his humility and wisdom have shaped lives and strengthened communities beyond the church.

    The message praised his work in charity, healthcare, education and economic support, noting that his influence extends far beyond preaching. The statement also thanked God for what it called his “exceptional life of impact” across cultures and nations.

    The president commended Adeboye’s prayers for the country and praised his commitment to national progress. He prayed for continued strength and good health for the cleric as he carries on his ministry.

    Born on 2 March 1942 in Ifewara, Adeboye earned a doctorate in Applied Mathematics from University of Lagos. He joined RCCG in 1973 and became its leader in 1981, succeeding founder Josiah Akindayomi.

    Under his leadership, the church has grown from a small Lagos congregation into one of the world’s largest Pentecostal movements, with branches in more than 190 countries. Its monthly Holy Ghost Service at Redemption Camp draws huge crowds and ranks among the largest Christian gatherings.

    Adeboye has also founded Redeemer’s University and led several social initiatives through church programmes.

  • US-Iran War: Fuel Prices May Rise If Oil Hits $90 – Experts

    US-Iran War: Fuel Prices May Rise If Oil Hits $90 – Experts

    Energy analysts warn that petrol and diesel costs in Nigeria could climb if global crude prices pass $90 a barrel as tensions grow between the United States and Iran.

    Oil markets turned volatile after recent military clashes in the Middle East. Traders fear disruption to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a key corridor for global supply. Prices already rose about 10 per cent over the weekend. By Sunday night, Brent crude traded near $73 per barrel, while Nigeria’s Bonny Light stood close to $79.

    Retail petrol currently sells between ₦824 and ₦880 per litre across major cities, despite a February price cut by Dangote Petroleum Refinery that lowered its depot rate to ₦774.

    Energy consultant Kelvin Emmanuel said Nigeria remains exposed to global price swings because the refinery still imports much of its crude. He noted that higher oil prices would raise refining costs and push pump prices up, especially as insurers increase war-risk premiums for tankers.

    Market analyst Olatide Jeremiah said local fuel costs would keep tracking global rates while imports remain high. He added that Nigeria could earn more revenue from pricier crude but consumers would likely pay more for fuel.

    Petroleum economist Wumi Iledare urged caution, saying modern oil markets are more diverse than in past crises. He said geopolitical tensions may add only short-term price pressure if supply remains steady.

    The tension followed reports that Donald Trump announced the death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei after joint strikes, a claim that heightened fears of wider conflict.

    Experts say Nigeria’s removal of fuel subsidies means local pump prices now respond directly to global crude movements. They argue that boosting domestic oil output and supplying local refineries with more Nigerian crude would reduce exposure to foreign shocks.

  • Who is Arafi: He Has Stepped Into Iran’s Interim Leadership

    Who is Arafi: He Has Stepped Into Iran’s Interim Leadership

    Cleric Alireza Arafi has assumed a central constitutional role in Iran’s leadership structure following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, becoming the clerical member of the country’s temporary ruling council.

    Under Article 111 of the constitution, a three-person body takes over the supreme leader’s powers if the position becomes vacant. The council includes the president, the judiciary chief, and a senior Islamic jurist from the Guardian Council. The current line-up consists of President Masoud Pezeshkian, Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, and Arafi as the designated jurist.

    Despite some reports describing him as acting supreme leader, the constitution defines the role as collective authority rather than a single interim ruler.

    Early life and education
    Arafi was born in 1959 in Meybod, in Yazd province. He studied in Qom, the country’s main centre for Shia scholarship, where he built his clerical career and rose through religious institutions.

    Institutional influence
    His power base lies within Iran’s clerical system rather than electoral politics. He serves on the Guardian Council, which reviews laws and approves election candidates, and is also a member of the Assembly of Experts, the body that appoints and supervises the supreme leader.

    Arafi heads Iran’s national seminary network and previously led Al-Mustafa International University, which trains clerics from Iran and abroad. These roles placed him close to the core of state power even before the succession process began.

    Transition period
    Khamenei’s reported death marks only the second leadership transition since the 1979 revolution. The Assembly of Experts must now choose a permanent successor, though officials have not set a timetable.

    Until then, Arafi and the other council members will jointly oversee state authority during a period of regional tension and domestic uncertainty. Analysts say the interim structure is designed to maintain stability while senior clerics deliberate on Iran’s next supreme leader.

  • Iran Names Arafi Acting Supreme Leader During Transition

    Iran Names Arafi Acting Supreme Leader During Transition

    Iran has appointed cleric Alireza Arafi as acting Supreme Leader, according to state news agency ISNA, placing him at the centre of power during the country’s leadership transition.

    The report said Expediency Discernment Council selected Arafi as the jurist member of the Guardian Council within the interim Leadership Council, which assumes the duties of the supreme leader until a permanent successor is chosen.

    Under Iranian law, the Assembly of Experts holds the authority to appoint the next supreme leader. Until then, the temporary council manages state leadership functions.

    The 67-year-old cleric will serve alongside President Masoud Pezeshkian and Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, forming a three-member body tasked with overseeing national leadership affairs.

    Officials said the arrangement follows constitutional procedures designed to ensure continuity of governance. Analysts note that such interim councils play a stabilising role during leadership gaps by sharing authority among senior figures.

    No timeline has been announced for the selection of a permanent successor. Authorities in Iran have not indicated how long the transition may last, though observers expect consultations among senior clerics and political leaders to intensify in the coming weeks.

  • SERAP Urges Probe of Big Tech Over Nigeria Rights

    SERAP Urges Probe of Big Tech Over Nigeria Rights

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to investigate major technology firms over alleged harm to privacy, media freedom and competition in Nigeria.

    In a complaint dated 28 February and signed by deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the group urged regulators to examine the activities of Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, X, TikTok, Amazon, and YouTube.

    SERAP said the companies’ algorithms and market dominance may distort competition, weaken local media and affect citizens’ rights. It asked the FCCPC to launch a full inquiry, hold a public hearing and compel disclosure of ranking and advertising systems.

    The complaint, addressed to FCCPC chief executive Tunji Bello, argues that dominant platforms now act as private gatekeepers of Nigeria’s digital space. It says opaque systems and offshore revenue flows allow firms to shape public debate and business outcomes without clear oversight.

    SERAP cited a precedent from the South African Competition Commission, which found bias against local media in Google search results and imposed remedies including transparency measures and financial redress.

    The group warned that large-scale collection and monetisation of user data could violate privacy rights. It also said algorithm-driven content feeds might influence voter exposure to information ahead of future elections if left unchecked.

    Concerns raised by the Nigerian Press Organisation were included in the petition. The body claims foreign-controlled algorithms decide what Nigerians see online and that local news content is monetised globally without fair reinvestment in domestic journalism.

    SERAP said falling revenues have forced newsroom closures and reduced media diversity. It argued that prompt regulatory action would protect consumers, strengthen competition and support democratic accountability.

    The organisation warned it may pursue legal action if regulators fail to act.

  • Gospel Singer Taiwo Adegbodu Dies, Fans Mourn

    Gospel Singer Taiwo Adegbodu Dies, Fans Mourn

    The Nigerian gospel music scene is in mourning after the death of Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of a popular twin duo, whose passing was confirmed early Sunday by his team.

    A statement on the pair’s official fan page announced the loss and triggered tributes from worshippers, musicians and church groups across Nigeria and abroad. In an emotional message, the family expressed shock and grief, lamenting his sudden death and the pain of losing him without warning. The cause of death was not disclosed.

    Gospel artist Esther Igbekele also confirmed the news on social media, posting a tribute in Yoruba that conveyed deep sorrow and respect for the late performer.

    Taiwo performed for more than two decades with his twin brother, Kehinde Adegbodu, forming a well-known act celebrated for Yoruba gospel songs rooted in scripture and traditional rhythms. They rose to fame in 1999 after releasing their debut album Faratimi (Lean on Me), which gained wide acceptance among Christian audiences, especially in south-west Nigeria.

    The duo later produced several popular worship tracks, including Shower Your Blessing, God Concert and Emi Mimo, which became regular features at church programmes and revival meetings. Their music blended contemporary gospel sounds with indigenous percussion, a style that helped define their identity and attract a loyal following.

    Beyond music, the twins received public recognition when Ademola Adeleke, governor of Osun State, appointed them special advisers on entertainment and tourism.

    Taiwo’s death comes weeks after the passing of another gospel singer, Bunmi Akinnaanu, adding to a period of loss within the Christian music community. Fans and colleagues continue to share condolences as tributes pour in online.

  • Iran Begins Mourning After Khamenei Death Report

    Iran Begins Mourning After Khamenei Death Report

    Iran has begun 40 days of mourning after state media said Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in strikes blamed on the United States and Israel.

    Officials said senior security figures and several of Khamenei’s relatives also died in Saturday’s attacks. The reported deaths mark one of the most serious blows to Iran’s leadership since the 1979 revolution.

    President Masoud Pezeshkian called the killing “a great crime” in a statement from his office. He announced seven public holidays alongside the national mourning period.

    Crowds gathered in Tehran soon after the announcement. Witnesses said people poured into streets and public squares as mourning ceremonies began despite ongoing military tension.

    State television aired images of mourners at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, where several people were seen weeping and collapsing in grief.

    Protests also broke out in cities including Shiraz and Yasuj, while demonstrations spread abroad. In Baghdad, crowds gathered near the fortified district that houses government buildings and foreign embassies. Iraq declared three days of mourning in response to the reported killing.

    In Karachi, protesters attacked the US consulate, smashing windows and setting fires, according to verified footage. Security forces later dispersed the crowd.

    There were also scattered reports of celebrations in some Iranian cities, including Karaj and Isfahan, witnesses said.

    There has been no independent confirmation of the circumstances surrounding Khamenei’s reported death. Analysts warn that uncertainty and anger over the claims could fuel further unrest across the region.

  • Nine Killed In Pakistan Protest After Khamenei Death Report

    Nine Killed In Pakistan Protest After Khamenei Death Report

    At least nine people have died after protests near the US consulate in Pakistan city Karachi turned violent following reports that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in joint strikes.

    A police doctor said the bodies were taken to a local hospital after security forces opened fire to disperse crowds trying to storm the compound early on Sunday. Several others were injured, officials confirmed.

    The unrest follows Iranian announcements that Khamenei died during attacks blamed on United States and Israel. Washington has not confirmed the claim.

    Witness footage showed wounded protesters carried away by bystanders as smoke rose near the consulate. Police said hundreds had gathered outside the site in anger over the reported killing.

    Protests also spread across Pakistan. In Skardu, demonstrators burned a United Nations office, though officials reported no casualties. In Lahore, crowds gathered near another US diplomatic compound. Police there blocked attempts to damage the outer gate without using force.

    Authorities in Islamabad said they expect further demonstrations near the diplomatic enclave later on Sunday.

    Anger has also spread beyond Pakistan. Protests were reported in parts of Iraq, Morocco, and Indian-administered Kashmir. In Baghdad, pro-Iran demonstrators assembled outside the area that houses the US embassy.

    Officials say tensions remain high as governments monitor reactions to the reported strike. No independent confirmation has verified the circumstances of Khamenei’s death, and international observers warn that unrest could widen if the situation escalates further.

  • Umahi Rejects Sex-for-Debt Claim, Calls It Political

    Umahi Rejects Sex-for-Debt Claim, Calls It Political

    Minister of Works Dave Umahi has denied allegations that he demanded sex from a businesswoman in exchange for settling a debt, calling the claim false and politically driven.

    Speaking on Saturday in Enugu during an inspection of federal road projects, Umahi said the accusation by Tracyniter Nicholas Ohiri was aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of political activity in the country.

    He told reporters that he had served in public office for years without similar complaints. He listed his past roles as party chairman, deputy governor, and governor, and said no one had accused him of harassment during that time.

    Umahi said social media criticism did not trouble him and instead strengthened his resolve. He added that while public figures often face rumours, he viewed the allegation as an attempt to gain attention online.

    The minister spoke after touring projects in Anambra State and nearby areas. The sites included the Enugu–Onitsha Expressway, flyovers at Abakpa junction, and works along the Enugu–Abakaliki–Ogoja highway corridor.

    He urged Nigerians to focus on national priorities rather than online disputes. He also linked the claim to early political manoeuvring, saying the real contest would begin once the Independent National Electoral Commission announces election timelines.

    Umahi did not address details of the alleged debt but insisted the accusation lacked proof. He said the public should judge him by his record in office.

    The allegation has circulated widely on social platforms, drawing mixed reactions, though no formal investigation has been announced.

  • Iran State TV Says Khamenei Killed in Airstrikes

    Iran State TV Says Khamenei Killed in Airstrikes

    Iranian state television says Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been killed in airstrikes on Tehran, after earlier reports dismissed his death as false.

    The broadcast claimed he died alongside family members when strikes hit a fortified bunker inside his palace compound. Authorities declared 40 days of mourning across Iran and aired an emotional announcement confirming the deaths.

    Officials said the attacks were carried out jointly by United States and Israel, though independent verification has not been released. Satellite images circulating online appear to show heavy damage around the compound.

    Former US president Donald Trump praised the operation on Truth Social, calling it “successful” and describing Khamenei as “one of the most evil people in history”.

    Iranian reports also said the leader’s daughter and grandchild were among those killed. Israeli officials stated that several senior Iranian commanders died in the same strikes, including Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guard chief Mohammad Pakpour. Claims that dozens more senior figures were killed remain unconfirmed.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Iranians to oppose their government, calling the moment a chance for political change.

    The reported killing marks a sharp escalation in tensions. Iranian forces have already launched missile and drone strikes targeting US bases in the Middle East, according to regional officials.

    There has been no independent confirmation of Khamenei’s death from international monitors. Observers say the situation remains fluid as governments assess the claims and prepare for possible further retaliation.

  • Tinubu Says Naira Card Now Works Worldwide

    Tinubu Says Naira Card Now Works Worldwide

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says Nigerians can now use the Naira Card for payments abroad, a move he says shows rising trust in the local currency.

    He made the claim on Saturday in Abuja at the ninth Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Ashraaf Islamic Foundation. The event focused on faith, justice, and security.

    Speaking through Health Minister Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the president said recent reforms had begun to ease pressure on the economy. He said the Central Bank of Nigeria had reduced interest rates and that inflation trends now show signs of decline.

    Tinubu said the country no longer relies as much on foreign cash for routine global payments. He added that travellers can use their Naira Card abroad instead of carrying dollars, euros, or pounds. He linked the change to better reserve management and improved currency stability.

    The president said food prices have slowed over the past year and that overall inflation has also eased in recent months. He admitted early reforms caused strain but said they were needed to fix deep economic problems.

    He said current data suggests Nigeria is on a path to recovery, pointing to steadier exchange rates and stronger faith in the financial system.

    On security, Tinubu pledged continued action against terrorism and banditry. He thanked religious and traditional leaders for their support and said unity is vital for peace. He added that threats to the nation’s progress would face firm resistance through joint effort and strong leadership.

  • Israel Claims Khamenei Dead After Joint Strikes

    Israel Claims Khamenei Dead After Joint Strikes

    The government of Israel believes Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has been killed following overnight military action carried out with the United States, according to a report by N12 News citing a senior Israeli official.

    The report said Israeli authorities assessed that Khamenei was “no longer with us” after coordinated strikes targeted sites linked to Iran’s leadership and military command. No official confirmation has been issued by Iran.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected the claim in an interview with NBC News, saying both Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian were alive. He added that most officials were safe, though one or two commanders may have been killed.

    Separately, Reuters reported that Iran’s defence minister and the head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had been eliminated, though Tehran has not confirmed those claims.

    Journalist Barak Ravid, writing on Axios, quoted an Israeli military official as saying three locations hosting senior Iranian leadership gatherings were struck at the same time, killing several key figures involved in military operations and state management.

    US President Donald Trump earlier announced that American forces had launched what he called “major combat operations” in Iran, describing the mission as an effort to remove threats posed by the Iranian government. He also urged Iranians to “take over” their country after the campaign ends.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the joint operation aimed to create conditions for Iranians to determine their political future, calling on various ethnic groups in Iran to seek change.

    The situation remains fluid, with conflicting claims and no independent verification of Khamenei’s reported death. Analysts warn that misinformation often spreads quickly during active conflicts, making confirmation difficult in the early stages of military operations.

  • Akpabio: New Electoral Law Will Make Votes Count

    Akpabio: New Electoral Law Will Make Votes Count

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio says the Electoral Act 2026 amendment signed by Bola Tinubu will ensure every Nigerian vote counts and curb result manipulation.

    Speaking on Wednesday after the signing ceremony in Abuja, Akpabio said the law tackles long-standing concerns about tampering between polling units and collation centres. He said the reform formally recognises electronic transmission of results for the first time since independence in 1960.

    Under the new provisions, results from polling units must be uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission result viewing portal. He said the measure would allow citizens to compare figures at each stage of collation and detect discrepancies.

    Akpabio noted the law also provides alternatives for areas with weak telecommunications signals. In such cases, signed result sheets from polling units will serve as primary records until officials reach locations with network access for upload.

    The senate president said the amendment reflects demands from civil society groups, opposition parties and election observers who raised concerns after the 2023 polls. He rejected claims that lawmakers passed the bill under political pressure and said parliament cut short its recess to complete the legislation.

    He added that the reform introduces direct primaries, allowing party members to vote for candidates instead of relying solely on delegates. The law also requires fresh elections if a declared winner is later disqualified by a court, rather than awarding victory to a runner-up with fewer votes.

    House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas said the amendment shortens the election notice period from 360 days to 300 days. He said this change could shift the 2027 presidential and parliamentary elections to January, avoiding voting during Ramadan and helping reduce voter apathy.

    The reform comes days after the electoral commission released the timetable for the 2027 general elections, signalling early preparations for the next nationwide vote.

  • Group demands Russian embassy explain alleged forced recruitment

    Group demands Russian embassy explain alleged forced recruitment

    The Foundation for Peace Professionals has asked the Russian Embassy in Nigeria to clarify claims that Nigerians were misled into military service after travelling abroad for jobs.

    In a statement on Monday, Executive Director Abdulrazaq Hamzat said the embassy should explain reports that a Nigerian man was lured to Russia with promises of engineering work but was instead taken to a military base and deployed to a conflict zone after brief training.

    The man said he signed documents he could not read because they were not in English and that he was denied access to a phone or translator. He claimed he believed he was signing employment papers, not a military contract.

    Hamzat described the allegation as a serious human rights concern and called for urgent clarification from Russian authorities. He said any recruitment of foreign nationals through deception would breach international norms and damage trust between states.

    The group also urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen safeguards for citizens seeking work abroad, warning that fake job offers could expose travellers to exploitation or forced service.

    PeacePro said the case requires swift diplomatic engagement and a transparent investigation to prevent further incidents involving Nigerians overseas.