INEC considers mock presidential poll before 2027 election
via Punch Nigeria8 min read
The Independent National Electoral Commission is considering conducting a comprehensive audit of its electoral technology systems and a mock presidential election ahead of the 2027 general election. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Thursday during a courtesy visit from the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja. These proposals are under consideration due to concerns about the reliability of election technology following the 2023 general election. Prof. Amupitan stated that the commission is exploring ways to implement these exercises, even if not originally budgeted, to strengthen the credibility of the general election. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to improve technological reliability, including the continued deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and the INEC Result Viewing Portal, and a review of its cybersecurity architecture. Dr Montgomery assured INEC of the UK's continued support, noting their close monitoring of preparations for the 2027 general election and recent off-cycle elections.
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The Kogi State Government has announced the successful rescue of four individuals kidnapped during an attack on an unauthorized examination center in Olowa, Dekina Local Government Area. Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, stated that the rescue was the result of a coordinated security operation ordered by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. The Governor directed the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara Rtd, to lead a joint mission involving the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and local vigilante groups. The sustained pressure from heavily armed security personnel forced the kidnappers to abandon the victims. The rescued individuals include the School Principal, a NECO official, and two students, who are currently undergoing debriefing and medical checks. Security operatives remain in the forest, and the operation is ongoing to apprehend the criminals. Fanwo commended the professionalism of the security agencies and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support in the state's security efforts. Governor Ododo's administration affirmed its commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents through continued investment in intelligence, security logistics, and inter-agency collaboration.
FIFA announced that the winners of the 2026 World Cup will receive championship rings, a first for the tournament, in addition to the trophy and gold medals. This initiative brings an American sporting tradition to global football. A limited edition of 2,026 individually numbered rings will be produced to commemorate the tournament. Thirty rings will be reserved for the World Cup-winning team, while the remaining 1,996 will be available to fans worldwide as an official licensed product. Each ring will feature the FIFA World Cup trophy on one side, with the other side customized to reflect the winning team's identity. The rings will be individually numbered, custom-fitted, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. The captain and head coach of the winning team will receive temporary rings immediately after Sunday's final, with the 30 customized rings for the champions to be officially presented later.
Cross River State has initiated a weeklong awareness campaign to address preeclampsia and decrease maternal and neonatal mortality. Organized by the Cross River State chapter of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria SOGON, the campaign is themed “Preeclampsia: The Unforeseen Enemy at the Door.” Dr. Dan Abubakar, Chairman of the Cross River State Task Force on Health Quality and Anti-Quackery, urged health practitioners to uphold professional standards despite economic challenges. He highlighted preeclampsia as a leading cause of maternal and neonatal deaths globally, emphasizing that early detection, prompt treatment, and quality obstetric care are crucial for prevention. Dr. Abubakar acknowledged the increasing pressure on healthcare facilities and personnel but stressed that patient safety must remain the highest priority. Declaring the event open, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Ayuk, affirmed the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration's commitment to safeguarding mothers and newborns through healthcare investments. Ayuk stated that maternal health is a central pillar of the state’s People First Agenda, with the Ministry of Health implementing reforms to revitalize health facilities, strengthen service delivery, and ensure accessible maternal healthcare. He noted that improving maternal health requires strong regulatory systems and modern healthcare infrastructure, including integrating advanced healthcare management systems and enforcing regula