ARISE News Stands By Report On Lagos Voters’ Register, Rejects INEC’s Denial

ARISE News Stands By Report On Lagos Voters’ Register, Rejects INEC’s Denial

ARISE News Stands By Report On Lagos Voters’ Register, Rejects INEC’s Denial

A significant public disagreement has emerged between ARISE News and Nigeria’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), over the accessibility and public display of the voters’ register in Lagos State.

At the heart of the controversy is a fundamental question about electoral transparency, public accountability, and citizens’ right to verify their registration details ahead of future elections. [arise.tv], [vanguardngr.com]

According to ARISE News, its reporting was based on independent field verification and direct observations regarding the display of the voters’ register in parts of Lagos State.

The broadcaster stated that it received a formal response from the Lagos office of INEC, which categorically denied the station’s earlier report and maintained that the register had been displayed across all 245 registration areas, including the local government areas of Alimosho and Shomolu. [arise.tv], [vanguardngr.com]

Despite acknowledging INEC’s right to present its own version of events, ARISE News firmly rejected the commission’s denial and reaffirmed confidence in its journalism.

The broadcaster emphasized that its findings were not based on hearsay, social media commentary, or unverified allegations, but rather on what it described as independent on-the-ground verification. [arise.tv], [thenigerialawyer.com]

A major component of ARISE News’ argument concerns the status of the official INEC portal at the time of its investigation. The station reported that, when its verification was conducted, the portal displayed a message indicating that there were no preliminary registers available for public display. This, according to the broadcaster, raised concerns about the accessibility of the voters’ register to members of the public seeking to verify their details. [arise.tv], [thenigerialawyer.com]

The broadcaster also highlighted conditions it reportedly observed in Alimosho. According to ARISE News, access to the register was available only upon request during specified hours, reportedly between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., and individuals were permitted to check only their own names.

The station argued that such an arrangement falls short of the open public display contemplated under Section 19 of the Electoral Act, which it cited in defense of its reporting. [arise.tv], [thenigerialawyer.com]

On the other hand, INEC strongly rejected the allegations. Through a statement issued by its Lagos State office, the commission described claims that the voters’ register was not displayed in some registration centres as false. INEC insisted that the exercise was conducted throughout all 245 registration areas in Lagos State, including the locations specifically mentioned in the media reports.

The commission further urged citizens to rely on its official communication channels and encouraged journalists to verify information with authoritative sources before publication. [vanguardngr.com], [nigerianey...spaper.com]

What makes this dispute particularly important is that it extends beyond a disagreement over facts. It touches on public trust in democratic institutions. Voter register displays are a crucial part of the electoral process because they allow citizens to confirm their registration status, identify errors, and ensure the integrity of electoral records before voting takes place. Any perception that access is limited, delayed, or insufficiently publicized can generate concerns about transparency.

FCT MINISTER CALLS FOR SHIFT FROM POLITICS OF ENTITLEMENT TO POLITICS OF RESPONSIBILITY

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, addressing guests at the Lecture and Maiden Induction Ceremony of the Idoma Hall of Fame in Abuja on Thursday, October 15

FCTA PRESS RELEASE 

FCT MINISTER CALLS FOR SHIFT FROM POLITICS OF ENTITLEMENT TO POLITICS OF RESPONSIBILITY

…AS HE IS INDUCTED INTO THE IDOMA HALL OF FAME

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has challenged Nigerian political leaders and citizens to move beyond the cyclical politics of grievance, entitlement, and sectional agitation, advocating instead for a governance model anchored on responsibility, institutional strength, and service delivery.

Delivering the keynote address during his induction into the First Idoma Hall of Fame, a ceremony designed to honour sons and daughters whose extraordinary contributions have enriched community heritage and national development on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Wike spoke on the theme: "People, Politics and Power Play in Nigeria: The Agitation for Equity and Fairness".

Addressing a distinguished audience of traditional rulers, federal lawmakers, diplomats, academics, and civil society leaders, Wike interrogated the core meaning of equity and fairness in Nigeria’s multi-ethnic federation, cautioning against reducing justice to a mere zero-sum contest over ethnic rotation or public appointments.

True fairness, he noted, means ensuring every Nigerian has a genuine opportunity to participate in national life, benefit from public institutions, and live with the confidence that the state does not belong more to one group than another.

"It is easy to speak passionately about equity when one's community is excluded. It is far more difficult to defend the same principle when one's community enjoys disproportionate access to power", the Minister stated, stressing that justice ceases to be a slogan when defended, even when it does not benefit oneself.

While acknowledging constitutional provisions like the federal character principle (Section 14 of the 1999 Constitution) as vital mechanisms for mitigating horizontal inequalities, the Minister warned against treating representation as an end in itself.

He said that representation should not be considered over and above performance, adding that changing the identities of those who gain access to public office without changing how power is exercised amounts merely to a redistribution of privilege.

In a passionate call to action, the Minister urged a fundamental shift in Nigeria's political orientation: "Our Turn asks: when will our people get power? How much of the national cake belongs to us? Our Responsibility asks: What will we do with power when it comes? How do we make the cake larger and distribute it fairly?

He said equity must do more than determining who sits at the table but also help to determine whether the table is fair. “Equity cannot mean merely changing the identity of those who benefit from power. If one group replaces another at the table while the benefits remain fundamentally exclusionary, the occupants have changed, but the injustice has not. This is where the Nigerian conversation about fairness becomes morally demanding. If we complain about marginalisation only when our own people are excluded, but become silent when others are marginalised after our people gain power, we are not opposing injustice; we are seeking access to its privileges. If we demand fairness when we are disadvantaged but celebrate exclusion when it favours us, then what we call equity is merely self-interest wearing the language of justice”, the Minister further stated.

Defending his record and the current administration’s approach to governance, the FCT Minister urged critics to judge leaders by tangible infrastructure and service delivery rather than superficial political theater or emotional appeals.

He pointed to visible transformations within Abuja’s city center and satellite towns as proof of focused administration. Furthermore, he noted that unprecedented financial allocations currently reaching sub-national governments mean that citizens should direct their demands for accountability to local leaders and governors rather than shifting all responsibilities exclusively to the central government.

Concluding his address, Wike called on Nigerians to look past religious, ethnic, and partisan biases. He urged the nation to transition permanently away from toxic zero-sum competition and the politics of entitlement, moving instead toward a culture where political authority is treated as a sacred public trust dedicated entirely to serving the people.

FCTA TO PARTNER WITH QATAR AND GERMANY IN INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT

L-R: Ambassador of Qatar, H.E. Yousef Al-Hail (left) and FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (Right) during a courtesy call on the FCT Minister on Tuesday, October 13.

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCTA TO PARTNER WITH QATAR AND GERMANY IN INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT

…As Wike Proposes 10-Year Economic Development Plan for Nigeria’s Federal Capital

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is set to partner with the governments of Qatar and Germany for the overall development of the nation’s capital.

FCT Minister, Mr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, announced this move when he received Ambassadors of both countries separately in his official residence in Abuja on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

In his discussions with the Ambassador of Qatar, H.E. Yousef Mohammed Ahmed Al-Hail, the Minister declared the FCT Administration’s readiness to partner with Qatar to replicate its world-class urban development models in Nigeria’s capital.

Commending Qatar’s rapid evolution into a premier global hub for investment, infrastructure, and international events—including its successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup and ongoing high-level collaborations with the World Bank and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the FCT Minister proposed a landmark urban development partnership.

"We want to partner with you to see how we can establish a 'Doha City' right here in Abuja. We want to emulate the planning, concepts, and modern infrastructure that Qatar is known for", the Minister revealed.

2027 POLLS: WHY PRESIDENT TINUBU DESERVES RE-ELECTION — FCT MINISTER

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike fielding questions from journalists during his monthly media parley in Abuja on Tuesday

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

2027 POLLS: WHY PRESIDENT TINUBU DESERVES RE-ELECTION — FCT MINISTER

…Dismisses concerns over opposition figures in the Presidential Campaign Council

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deserves a second term because he has taken the difficult economic decisions that earlier administrations avoided.

Speaking during his media parley in Abuja on Tuesday, October 13, 202, the FCT Minister declared that President Tinubu has also displayed the visionary leadership and courage needed to address Nigeria's foundational challenges.

Citing the fuel subsidy removal, Mr. Wike said against the advice of many, the President went ahead with the decision because Nigeria would otherwise have crumbled if it hadn’t been done.

He said the decision has freed up funds for state governments to build infrastructure and pay salaries, adding that pensioners are now being paid while students have been in school without strikes for the past three years.

 "We have had presidents who identified these problems, but they were unable to take a decision. Nigeria requires strong leadership. Take subsidy, for example: a lot of people advised against it, but he said, 'I will do it; if I don't do it, Nigeria will crumble.' That decision has made funds available for sub-national governments to provide infrastructure and pay salaries. Our children are now steady in school because there has been no strike in the past three years, our pensioners are being paid, and infrastructure is being provided because money has been made available”.

On the complaints about hardship in the country, the Minister said turning around the economy of a country requires more than simple fixes.  He said the poor may not get what they want now, but assured that they will get in due course.

The Green Revolution in Food Packaging

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The Green Revolution in Food Packaging

The Green Revolution in Food Packaging

The shift toward eco-friendly packaging is more than a trend; it’s a quiet revolution reshaping how we think about food and responsibility.

Sustainable materials such as bamboo fiber, cornstarch-based bioplastics, and kraft paper are redefining convenience without compromising safety.

They resist heat, preserve flavor, and decompose naturally, a trifecta that nylon can never achieve.

This transformation also carries cultural significance. In many communities, embracing biodegradable packaging signals progress and pride in environmental stewardship. It reflects a growing awareness that every meal served responsibly contributes to a cleaner planet.

Restaurants and vendors adopting these alternatives not only protect their customers but also enhance their reputation as forward-thinking and ethical.

Safer Paths Beyond Nylon

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Safer Paths Beyond Nylon

Safer Paths Beyond Nylon

The quest for responsible food packaging is not just about convenience; it is about safeguarding health, preserving taste, and protecting the environment. 

Alternatives to nylon bags offer a spectrum of solutions that balance practicality with sustainability.

Biodegradable containers made from plant-based materials such as cornstarch or sugarcane fiber are one of the most promising options. They withstand heat without leaching harmful chemicals and break down naturally, reducing environmental burden.

Foil wraps, though not biodegradable, provide a safe barrier against heat and moisture, preserving flavor while avoiding chemical migration.

Reusable food-grade plastics, designed to endure high temperatures, present another avenue, especially when paired with consumer education on proper cleaning and reuse.

The Hidden Perils of Nylon Bags for Hot Food

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The Hidden Perils of Nylon Bags for Hot Food

The Hidden Perils of Nylon Bags for Hot Food

Packaging hot food in nylon bags has become a widespread practice, especially in informal food markets and street vending. Yet beneath its convenience lies a troubling reality that deserves closer scrutiny.

Nylon, a synthetic polymer, is not designed to withstand high temperatures. When steaming food is placed inside, the heat can trigger chemical leaching. Substances such as oligomers and additives may migrate into the food, raising concerns about long-term health risks, including potential carcinogenic effects.

Beyond the chemical hazards, nylon bags compromise the integrity of the food itself. Heat trapped within the bag accelerates condensation, creating a moist environment that fosters bacterial growth. Instead of preserving freshness, the packaging can inadvertently hasten spoilage.

2027 ELECTIONS: WIKE MOBILIZES CROSS-PARTY 'RAINBOW COALITION' IN FCT TO BACK PRESIDENT TINUBU'S RE-ELECTION

 

FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (Left) in a chat with APC Candidate for the FCT Senatorial seat, Senator Philip Aduda (Right) at a meeting of the FCT PDP and FCT APC stakeholders in Abuja on Monday, October 12.

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

2027 ELECTIONS: WIKE MOBILIZES CROSS-PARTY 'RAINBOW COALITION' IN FCT TO BACK PRESIDENT TINUBU'S RE-ELECTION

…Pledges operational leadership across FCT and Rivers State

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has convened a high-level stakeholder meeting of the Rainbow Coalition Movement in Abuja, rallying multi-party political leaders, national lawmakers, and grassroots figures to secure the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

The meeting, which held at the Minister’s official residence in Life Camp on Monday, October 12, 2026, brought together a diverse political coalition, including the National Chairman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), State Chairmen of both the PDP and the All Progressives Congress (APC), the six FCT Area Council Chairmen, candidates for the Senate and House of Representatives from both major parties, former National Assembly members, and key community leaders.

Addressing the gathering, the FCT Minister declared that governance and political momentum must transcend traditional party lines. He cited the recent governorship election in Edo State as proof of concept, where strategic cross-party collaboration between the APC and legacy PDP structures yielded victory.

"This meeting I called has to do with the 2027 general election, whether you are in PDP or APC, we are going to work together to achieve the same result. The last election that took place in Edo State, the victory was as a result of the coalition between the legacy PDP and APC... We are going to work together to return President Tinubu and APC candidates for the National Assembly", he said.

He grounded his call for President Tinubu's re-election on a series of structural and institutional achievements within the FCT under the current administration, citing historic milestones such as the establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission—which allows civil servants to rise to Permanent Secretary and Head of Service ranks and employment for FCT indigenes—the creation of dedicated Secretariats for Youth and Women Affairs, cabinet representation for FCT indigenes, and key infrastructural projects including school renovations and the upcoming completion of the long-abandoned Apo-Karshi road.

Defending the administration's broader policy trajectory, the Minister pointed to ongoing efforts to establish state police as a critical step toward resolving national security issues, while acknowledging that structural economic reforms require patience and strong executive leadership rather than quick fixes.

FCTA PRESS RELEASE FCT TEACHERS’ STRIKE ACTION IS POLITICAL – FCT MINISTER

FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, briefing journalists shortly after a meeting with security chiefs and Area Council chairmen on Friday, October 9, 2026

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCT TEACHERS’ STRIKE ACTION IS POLITICAL – FCT MINISTER

…INSISTS ISSUES RAISED WERE ALREADY BEING ADDRESSED

…SAYS 'NO WORK, NO PAY' RULE WILL BE IMPLEMENTED

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has condemned the strike action declared by the FCT Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress as a politically motivated attempt to blackmail the administration, describing the strike action as ‘political’.

The Minister made this statement during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, October 9, 2026, shortly after a closed-door meeting with Area Council Chairmen and security operatives.

Nyesom Wike clarified that the FCT Administration had fulfilled all obligations to local government workers and teachers, rendering the industrial action entirely baseless. He pointed out that overseeing labour unions, had not been consulted, among other contraventions, before the strike action was called, hence, he has announced the immediate implementation of the "no work, no pay" policy across all Area Councils to protect public interests and maintain order.

Addressing the media on the development, the Minister stated, "We want to state categorically and let it be known to the public that this so-called strike declaration is political, and we will not accept it. We will not accept it because there's no basis for anybody to call for a strike. We don't have any issue with anybody, either be it area council local education primary authority, or be it secondary schools, we have no issues".

FCTA PHOTO NEWS

The FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike

FCTA PHOTO NEWS

GOD USED LATE DAN ORBIH TO MAKE ME RIVERS STATE GOVERNOR - FCT Minister 

The FCT Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has revealed that late Chief Dan Orbih was the divine instrument God used to make him Governor of Rivers State in 2015. Speaking at a Night of Tributes in Abuja in honour of the PDP National Vice Chairman, South-South, who died on August 31 at age 64, Wike said Orbih stood firm despite massive inducements and pressure from opponents to abandon him.

Wike recalled the turbulent 2013/2014 period, stating that his then governor sent people to Orbih with offers of everything in the world to withdraw support, but Orbih refused. He disclosed that Orbih donated two bulletproof buses for his campaign security and mobilized structural support across the South-South, insisting that without his strength as Vice-Chairman, many current lawmakers would not be in office today.

The Minister described Orbih as a rare, selfless politician who never for once, in his eight years as governor, asked for a contract or patronage. He said loyalty and commitment to friendship run in Dan’s family and urged Edo stakeholders to honour him with a state burial for his contributions to the state’s political development.

Speech for Nigeria at 66

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Speech for Nigeria at 66

Fellow Nigerians,

Today, we gather to celebrate a milestone in our nation’s journey, 66 years of independence.

On October 1st, 1960, Nigeria stepped into the light of freedom, carrying the hopes of millions and the promise of greatness.

Sixty-six years later, we stand as a people resilient in spirit, rich in culture, and blessed with abundant resources. Our journey has not been without challenges, but each trial has strengthened our resolve to build a nation worthy of its destiny.

We celebrate the courage of our founding fathers, who envisioned a Nigeria united in diversity. We honour the sacrifices of countless citizens who have worked tirelessly to uphold democracy, justice, and peace. And we recognize the boundless creativity of our youth, whose innovation and energy continue to shape our future.

Nigeria at 66 is more than a number; it is a testament to endurance. It is a call to renew our commitment to unity, to embrace progress, and to ensure that every citizen enjoys the fruits of independence.

Let us remember that independence is not just freedom from colonial rule, it is the responsibility to govern ourselves with wisdom, fairness, and compassion. It is the duty to rise above division and to harness our diversity as strength.

As we look ahead, may we dream of a Nigeria where prosperity is shared, where justice is upheld, and where peace reigns.

May we pledge to work together, government, private sector, civil society, and citizens, to build the Nigeria our children deserve.

Fellow Nigerians, let us lift our voices with pride: Nigeria at 66 is alive, strong, and moving forward. May God bless our beloved country, and may the green-white-green forever wave in glory.

Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!

Curtesy: The SEB MEDIA Team

Second Chances

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SECOND CHANCES

Second Chances

Second Chances:  Ada and Kunle’s emotional journey, from their first meeting in a café to their tender moments under the Abuja skyline.

Genre: Romantic Drama

Setting: Modern-day Abuja, Nigeria - a mix of urban sophistication and quiet domestic life.

Main Characters:

• Ada: 46, a successful interior designer, independent but emotionally guarded.
• Kunle: 49, a widowed civil engineer, kind-hearted and introspective.
• Chika: Ada’s younger sister, lively and outspoken.
• Emeka: Kunle’s teenage son, smart and observant.

Scene 1 – The Coffee Shop

Interior – Morning. A bustling café in Wuse 2. Ada sits alone, sketching designs on her tablet. Kunle enters, looking for a seat.

Kunle: Excuse me, is this seat taken? Ada (without looking up): Not unless you plan to steal my coffee. Kunle (smiling): I promise I only steal good conversation.

Ada looks up, amused. They share a brief smile.

Ada: You’re bold for a stranger. Kunle: I’m an engineer. We build bridges — even conversational ones.

They laugh. The chemistry is subtle but undeniable.

Scene 2 – The Unexpected Reunion

Exterior – Evening. A networking event for professionals. Ada spots Kunle across the room.

Ada: You again? Are you following me? Kunle: Maybe destiny’s GPS is just accurate.

They toast with glasses of wine.

Ada: I don’t believe in destiny. Kunle: Then let’s call it good timing.

Scene 3 – The Dinner

Interior – Ada’s apartment. Warm lighting, soft music. Kunle helps set the table.

Kunle: You cook like someone who designs kitchens for a living. Ada: I design spaces, not meals. But tonight, I’m making an exception. Kunle: I’ll take that as a compliment — and a warning.

Love in the City Lights

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Love in the City Lights

Love in the City Lights

Chapter One: A Chance Encounter

It was a rainy Thursday evening in Lagos. The streets glistened under the neon glow of billboards, and the hum of traffic filled the air. Amaka, a 45-year-old architect, hurried into a cozy café to escape the downpour. She shook off her umbrella and sighed.

At the corner table sat Tunde, 48, a marketing consultant, sipping his cappuccino while scrolling through his tablet. Their eyes met briefly.

Tunde: “Looks like the rain is determined to keep us indoors tonight.” Amaka (smiling): “I’m not complaining. It’s the perfect excuse for coffee.” Tunde: “Then allow me to recommend the caramel latte. It’s the best thing here.” Amaka: “You sound like you’ve tried everything on the menu.” Tunde (laughs): “Guilty. This place is my second office.”

And just like that, a conversation began—easy, warm, and unexpectedly familiar.

Chapter Two: Conversations Over Coffee

Days turned into weeks. Amaka and Tunde found themselves meeting at the café more often, sometimes by chance, sometimes by choice.