The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has once again voiced concerns over its inability to take firm action against political parties, aspirants, and their supporters who launch campaigns before the legally approved period. Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of INEC, expressed this concern during a roundtable discussion hosted by the Commission under the theme “Challenges of Premature Political Campaigns.” According to Yakubu, although the Electoral Act 2022 clearly sets fines of up to ₦500,000 for campaigns carried out within 24 hours of an election, there is currently no penalty for campaigns that begin before the 150-day window mandated by law. He highlighted that Section 94(1) of the Act specifically prohibits political campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day and requires them to stop 24 hours before election day. The purpose of this provision, he explained, is to ensure governance is prioritized over continuous electioneering. Despite these legal frameworks, the INEC chairman lamented that candidates and political parties remain in constant campaign mode, often long before the Commission officially releases an election timetable. “Across the country, we see billboards, outdoor adverts, rallies, and media promotions from aspirants and political groups,” Yakubu explained. “Such premature activities undermine our ability to effectively monitor campaign finance, as huge sums are spent outside the official campaign window.” He further stressed that Nigerians expect INEC, as both the regulator and registrar of political parties, to step in and address the persistent violations of early campaigning laws. However, the Commission’s biggest obstacle lies within the law itself. Yakubu pointed to Section 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, which only allows for mild sanctions — a fine of not more than ₦500,000 — for campaigns conducted 24 hours before polling day. Unfortunately, no legal penalties exist for campaigns that occur earlier than 150 days to an election. “This legal gap remains a major challenge for the Commission in curbing premature campaigns by political parties, aspirants, and their loyalists,” he noted. The INEC chairman emphasized that this issue is not entirely new, as past electoral cycles have also faced similar challenges. The Commission’s limited authority and the weakness of existing legal frameworks have made it difficult to enforce discipline. This, he said, calls for collective reflection and reform. It was on this basis that INEC convened the roundtable, bringing together legislators, political party leaders, civil society representatives, practitioners, and regulatory agencies to deliberate on possible solutions. Yakubu also confirmed that since the National Assembly is currently reviewing Nigeria’s electoral laws, INEC has extended invitations to the leadership of both the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters. He expressed confidence that lawmakers, alongside contributions from experts, political party leaders, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), will provide actionable reforms. Concluding his remarks, the INEC chairman reiterated that safeguarding Nigeria’s electoral integrity and strengthening democracy is not the job of INEC alone but a responsibility that requires input from multiple stakeholders
The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially declared a five-day nationwide warning strike, scheduled to begin on Friday, September 12, 2025, in a bid to push forward their longstanding demands. The announcement was contained in a statement released on Thursday by the General Secretary of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCT-ARD), Dr. Agbor Affiong. According to the statement, the resolution to embark on industrial action followed the outcome of the National Executive Council (NEC) online meeting of the association, which commenced on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, and lasted until the early hours of Thursday, September 11, 2025. “Following deliberations at the NARD E-NEC meeting held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, and which extended into the early hours of Thursday, September 11, 2025, members of the NEC unanimously agreed to commence a five-day nationwide warning strike,” the statement declared. It further emphasized that the strike would officially start at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025, and is expected to conclude on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. “All medical centres across the country are instructed to notify their respective hospital managements accordingly, while ensuring that the collective demands of the doctors are strongly pursued,” the statement added. Speaking earlier on Tuesday, the NARD President, Dr. Osundara Zenith, disclosed to LMSINT MEDIA that resident doctors nationwide were prepared to shut down public health facilities in protest against persistent issues such as: It is also important to note that the FCT chapter of the Association of Resident Doctors has been on a separate seven-day warning strike since Monday of the same week, further compounding the challenges facing the healthcare system. This latest development signals rising tension within the health sector, as Nigerian doctors continue to demand urgent reforms to address the crisis affecting medical practice and healthcare delivery across the nation.
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The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Dr. Sam Amadi, has strongly condemned the Nigerian Senate for preventing Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her seat in the Red Chamber. Amadi expressed his disapproval during a live interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, where he described the Senate’s decision as an outright abuse of senatorial privileges and a breach of democratic processes. According to him, the Clerk of the National Assembly is an administrative officer and not a lawmaker, hence lacking the constitutional authority to prolong the suspension of any senator. He emphasized that such an action undermines both parliamentary order and democratic norms. Amadi noted with concern that while members of the National Assembly create rules to guide parliamentary procedures, they often disregard the same regulations when it suits their interest. He further explained: “This action represents an overreach and a clear abuse of the privileges belonging to senators themselves. The National Assembly indeed has the constitutional power to suspend one of its members, but such a suspension must be carried out strictly within the lawful proceedings of the House. Anything beyond that amounts to illegality.” Dr. Amadi highlighted that it is fundamentally wrong for the parliament to halt or delay its internal processes while awaiting judicial rulings. He argued that the legislature has immunity, independence, and the right to self-govern without judicial interference unless in cases of constitutional violations. He stressed: “The judiciary does not have the authority to obstruct parliamentary functions. The Nigerian parliament has autonomy over its activities, and judicial interventions should not interfere with legislative proceedings.” This development continues to raise concerns about the balance of power, accountability, and respect for parliamentary privileges in Nigeria’s democracy. Many analysts view the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a test of whether the Nigerian Senate is committed to fairness, transparency, and democratic integrity
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways (Job 22:28). One of the most powerful truths revealed to us in Scripture is the creative force or power of the spoken word. God created the world by His Word, and created us to function the same way. The life of the new creation is a life of speaking; we believe, and therefore speak: “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak” (2 Corinthians 4:13). You’re not supposed to wait for things to happen; you’re to call them into being. Hebrews 11:3 says, “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” This reveals what you can do with the Word of God in your mouth. In the Book of Genesis, the Bible says the earth was a chaotic mass. But after the Holy Spirit incubated upon it, God gave the Word, and everything He spoke leapt into being. He’s given you the same ability to speak whatever you want into existence. An important key to this is meditation. When there’s a situation you want to change, take out time to meditate on God’s Word. During that time of meditation, the Word of God will well up within you with which to effect the changes you desire. What do you want in your life? What do you want to change or create? There’s no need to cry or gripe about the situation. Focus on what you want and speak it forth. In Christ, you’ve been brought into the transcendent life. You have dominion, favour, fruitfulness and victory. But you must enforce them with your words. Psalm 45:1 says, “…my tongue is the pen of a ready writer.” What you declare continually becomes your reality. Just like the Lord Jesus, in the volume of the book, it is written of you to do the will of God. That means your life has already been scripted in God’s plan. But for it to manifest accordingly, you must give voice to it. Even now, affirm that you’re making progress and manifesting the glory of Christ everywhere. Declare that good things are happening for you, through you and around you. This is how you activate the power of the Word in your life. Even when what you need isn’t visible yet, it exists in its expanded form. As you speak, it will consolidate and manifest in your world. The Bible says, “…God…calleth those things which be not as though they were” (Romans 4:17). You must do the same. Your words create your experiences. Therefore, declare abundance, peace, health and victory. Speak what God has written about you, and watch it materialize—“become flesh.” Hallelujah! PRAYERThank you, Father, for aligning my life with your perfect will, causing me to walk in overflowing provision and undeniable victory. My path shines brighter every day, and all I require comes to me by free course, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYMark 11:23 KJVFor verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Romans 4:17 KJV(As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, [even] God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Hebrews 11:3 KJVThrough faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan2 Corinthians 10:1-18 & Proverbs 27-28 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 22:14-23 & 1 Samuel 29 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Blessed be the Lord who daily loads me with benefits, even the God of my salvation! Today, there’s an overflow of favor and abundance for me, and I take possession. I’ll never be broke in my life, for the Lord has supplied all that I require for life and godliness according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. I’ve been granted unrestricted access to the unending, boundless, fathomless, incalculable and exhaustless riches of Christ, wealth which no human being could have searched out. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. I am loaded with good things. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. I recognize the divine ability, efficiency, and might that are at work in me today. By virtue of the divine life of Christ in me, every cell of my blood, every bone of my body, and every organ in me is invigorated; no infirmity can fasten itself to my body, and all things are possible unto me. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, and from sickness to health. I live above the limitations of the human body and the physical realm through the ability of God’s Spirit. Health, peace, joy, and the glorious life are my present-hour inheritance. I declare today that my body is strong and healthy! Sickness and infirmity have no place in me. The life of Christ is at work in every fiber of my being,
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Former Chelsea midfielder, Craig Burley, has harshly criticized Manchester United’s summer signing, Manuel Ugarte, branding the Uruguayan international a “wet blanket” who, according to him, contributes “absolutely nothing” on the pitch. Ugarte was among the high-profile signings made under the tenure of former Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag, who also brought in the likes of Antony and Joshua Zirkzee during his two-year spell at Old Trafford. However, much like several other arrivals under Ten Hag, Ugarte has been underwhelming and has struggled to prove his worth at Manchester United. According to LMSINT Media sports updates, former United captain Gary Neville also voiced his concerns about the Uruguayan midfielder. Neville stated that Ugarte “is not a Manchester United player,” echoing sentiments that the 23-year-old has not lived up to expectations since his move to England. Ugarte joined Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the summer transfer window of 2024, in a deal reported to be worth around £50 million. Despite featuring in roughly 45 matches for the Red Devils last season, his overall impact was minimal, raising questions about his suitability for a club with the stature and history of Manchester United. Burley, who is now a football pundit with ESPN, did not hold back in his assessment: “Manuel Ugarte is just absolutely nothing,” Burley said.“He’s just like a wet blanket. Put him in with the kids and even the kids would be going, ‘Who the hell is this guy? Seriously.’” The Uruguay international has also endured a tough start to the new Premier League campaign. In the opening two fixtures, he came on only as a second-half substitute before being left out of the starting lineup entirely in Manchester United’s clash against Burnley. With pressure mounting and fans growing increasingly frustrated, questions remain over whether Ugarte can adapt to the demands of English football and prove his critics wrong in the long run. For more updates on Manchester United transfer news and Premier League analysis, visit our sports section on LMSINT Media.
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South Africa’s national team head coach, Hugo Broos, has commended his players for showing strength and determination against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, according to LMSINT MEDIA. The thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matchday eight clash between Bafana Bafana and Nigeria ended in a 1-1 draw at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein on Tuesday night, leaving fans on both sides with mixed emotions. Bafana Take the Lead through an Own Goal South Africa gained the advantage midway through the first half when Nigerian captain, William Troost-Ekong, accidentally deflected the ball into his own net in the 25th minute, gifting the hosts a surprising lead. Nigeria Strike Back Before Half-Time The Super Eagles responded with resilience, and their efforts paid off just before the break. Calvin Bassey rose highest to head in Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s precise cross, bringing the scoreline to 1-1 on the stroke of half-time. Second Half Intensity and Defensive Resilience In the second half, Nigeria pushed forward aggressively, dominating possession and seeking a winning goal. Despite the pressure, Bafana Bafana’s defense stood solid, frustrating the Nigerian attack and ensuring the match ended level. Hugo Broos Praises His Team’s Physicality Speaking after the match, Broos expressed satisfaction with his squad’s ability to match Nigeria’s physical approach throughout the contest. “It was the kind of match I anticipated — very physical, and much tougher from the opponent. In the second half, Nigeria tried to win with power football, but we also played a very good game,” the Belgian tactician said. Broos’ remarks underline South Africa’s growing confidence and competitiveness on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has described his team’s 1-1 draw against South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier as a positive outcome despite their desire for victory. Speaking to journalists during his post-match press conference at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, Chelle highlighted the team’s performance, acknowledging both the challenges and bright spots of the encounter. According to match reports, William Troost-Ekong’s unfortunate own goal handed the host nation, Bafana Bafana, an early lead in the 22nd minute. However, the Super Eagles responded before halftime through Calvin Bassey’s well-taken equalizer, which leveled the game and lifted Nigerian spirits. The second half saw both teams battling hard for dominance. Nigeria created several chances and exerted strong pressure on the South Africans but could not convert those opportunities into goals. Ultimately, the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate after regulation time. Reflecting on the outcome, Chelle admitted that while his squad hoped for all three points, securing a draw away in South Africa was still encouraging. “At the beginning of the second half, we put a lot of pressure on South Africa, but we lacked something—maybe the final technical execution, maybe the last pass. The draw is still a good result. To earn a point in South Africa is positive, although we are slightly disappointed because our aim was to win. This is the reality of football,” Chelle said. With this result, Nigeria currently sits on 11 points, while South Africa leads the group with 17 points, followed closely by Benin Republic with 16 points. The qualification race is heating up, with only two fixtures left to decide who secures a ticket to the global showpiece in 2026. The Super Eagles will now focus on their remaining games, knowing that every point is vital in the competitive African qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
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Recently evicted Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Ivatar, has opened up about her experience in the house, revealing that some of her fellow contestants attempted to bring her down during her stay. In her words, she strongly believes that other housemates saw her as a major threat to their game and deliberately tried to sabotage her progress. Speaking during an interview with Classic FM on Tuesday, Ivatar explained that she noticed clear signs of resentment and plots against her because of the way she carried herself with confidence and determination. According to Ivatar: “People were making efforts to dim my light, and I understood that I was seen as a threat. Regardless of what anyone might say—whether they believe I was doing enough or not—I will still commend myself for my journey. I give myself a pat on the back because I know I gave my best,“ she said. It should be recalled that Ivatar was among the housemates who left the Big Brother Naija Season 10 reality show on Sunday night. She was evicted alongside Doris and Big Soso, as previously reported by LMSINT MEDIA. Her exit stirred reactions from fans across social media, with many viewers expressing mixed feelings about her eviction. Some felt she had more to showcase, while others believed her outspoken nature may have contributed to her early exit.
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Artificial intelligence-powered robotic content creator, Jarvis, has openly addressed why she has not yet tied the knot with her younger boyfriend, Peller, who is a well-known and controversial TikTok personality. During a recent TikTok livestream, the 23-year-old Jarvis shared details about her relationship, pointing out that Peller’s young age is the main challenge holding back their marriage plans. Jarvis explained that while she is emotionally and mentally prepared for marriage, she feels that the three-year age gap between her and Peller could potentially cause future issues. According to her, “Peller can easily change his mind someday and say I am too old for him. I am old enough for marriage, but his age is slowing things down. We would have already been married if he were older. I have to wait until he matures to a stage that feels right. I can’t force him into marriage at this young age.” In a swift response, Peller countered Jarvis’s claims, emphasizing that he is fully ready for marriage despite being younger. He dismissed her fears, insisting that their relationship is strong enough to handle the age difference. This update follows Jarvis’s earlier public confirmation of her engagement to Peller, who is 20 years old, during an exclusive interview with Channels TV in July 2025. The engagement sparked widespread discussion across social media, with fans divided over whether the couple should proceed with marriage despite their age difference. The situation has also fueled conversations about relationships with age gaps in today’s digital era, where public scrutiny often adds extra pressure. For Jarvis and Peller, the decision seems to rest on timing, maturity, and their ability to manage societal expectations while navigating personal feelings.
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Spain-based Nigerian artist Attih Soul recently took the spotlight as he delivered an electrifying performance at the 18th birthday celebration of Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal on July 13, 2025. The soulful Nigerian talent captivated the star-studded audience with his unique blend of R&B and soul music, leaving both the celebrant and the high-profile guests entertained and energized throughout the evening. His powerful vocal delivery, combined with his magnetic stage presence, ensured that the young football sensation’s birthday was nothing short of unforgettable. Attih Soul’s participation in such a prestigious private event has sparked conversations online, with many speculating that his artistry has earned him a place among Yamal’s favorite African musicians. Interestingly, Yamal has repeatedly expressed his admiration for African music, which further highlights why Attih Soul was the perfect choice to headline his special day. Attih Soul’s Musical Journey and Global Recognition Over the years, Attih Soul has steadily carved out a reputation for his deeply emotional and soulful performances. His music career is decorated with numerous milestones that showcase his versatility and dedication to his craft. In addition to live performances, Attih Soul has captured audiences worldwide through his project Shades of Emotions. The album blends soul, rhythm, and heartfelt storytelling, demonstrating his ability to communicate raw feelings through music. With every song, he continues to affirm his place as one of Nigeria’s most expressive and soulful vocalists gaining recognition across borders. Attih Soul’s Growing Influence Attih Soul’s performance at Lamine Yamal’s birthday highlights not only his rising global influence but also the growing appreciation for Nigerian and African music on the world stage. With Yamal being one of the brightest prospects in European football and Attih Soul representing the next wave of Nigerian artistry, their collaboration at such a significant event symbolizes the merging of sports and music cultures that continue to shape global entertainment. As Attih Soul’s career progresses, moments like this performance at Yamal’s 18th birthday further solidify his reputation as a global ambassador of African soul music.
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Tonye Cole, a former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the recently concluded Local Government elections in the state, noting that the process could have been conducted in a better and more transparent manner. Cole made his remarks on Tuesday during an interview on Prime Time, a flagship programme aired on Arise Television. While addressing the outcome of the polls, he admitted that though he did not approve of how the elections were carried out, the state must now look forward and focus on future political engagements. According to him, democracy thrives on respect for laws, fairness, and the participation of the people. He warned that disregarding citizens’ voices and bending democratic rules to suit personal interests is a dangerous precedent that could harm governance in the long run. In his words: “One of the critical things we must be careful about is that democracy is a continuous process. If we begin to disregard how the people feel, neglect the rules that guide democracy, and instead create our own, it sets a dangerous trend.” The APC chieftain further emphasized that the local government elections could have been managed differently with a more holistic approach. He stressed the importance of engaging citizens in the process and ensuring they understand that elections directly impact their overall well-being. “I’ve already spoken about the local government elections. I feel that they could have been conducted differently. It could have been done better, with broader inclusiveness and citizen engagement. That would have reinforced trust in the process and improved the credibility of governance at the grassroots level,” he explained. Despite his reservations, Cole acknowledged the reality of the concluded exercise, urging everyone to move forward while preparing for the next electoral challenge. “I don’t agree with the way the elections were conducted, but it has already been concluded. At this point, all we can do is focus on what lies ahead and ensure the next elections are more credible and fair,” he concluded. His statement adds to the growing conversations around the conduct of elections in Nigeria, especially at the grassroots level, where transparency and citizen participation remain key to strengthening democratic institutions.
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Tonye Cole, former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, has firmly stated that he will not be joining former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Cole, who has previously contested for the governorship twice without success, reaffirmed his determination to run again for the highest political office in Rivers come 2027. Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a political affairs program on Arise Television, he emphasized his unwavering ambition to serve as the governor of Rivers State. The business magnate turned politician explained that after two unsuccessful bids in 2019 and 2023, his upcoming attempt is framed as a decisive third opportunity to achieve his long-standing goal. He stressed that despite past setbacks, his political journey is built on resilience, focus, and the conviction to finally secure the governorship position. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Cole’s initial attempt in 2019 was marred by legal battles that prevented the APC from fielding candidates, while his 2023 effort did not secure him victory. Nevertheless, he continues to project optimism about his political future. When asked about his relationship with Rotimi Amaechi, Cole acknowledged the crucial role the former Rivers governor played in introducing him into mainstream politics. He expressed respect and admiration for Amaechi’s political journey, particularly his presidential ambition, but maintained that his own political focus remains on Rivers State. In clear terms, Tonye Cole noted that his loyalty to the APC remains intact and that he has no plans to cross over to the ADC or any other political party. He stated: “Nobody can deny that Amaechi brought me into politics. I have always respected leaders like him and others who contributed to my growth. However, Amaechi has his own ambition, and I have mine. While he charts his path, I remain committed to achieving my goals in Rivers.” With this declaration, Tonye Cole has made it evident that he intends to remain a key political figure in Rivers State under the APC banner while positioning himself strategically for the 2027 elections.
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Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare has been tipped to spearhead Nigeria’s frontline in tonight’s all-important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier clash against South Africa, LMSINT Media confirms. The Super Eagles of Nigeria will head into the highly anticipated showdown without their star forward Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out due to injury. Osimhen, the Napoli talisman currently on loan at Galatasaray, sustained a knock during Nigeria’s matchday seven victory over Rwanda last weekend. Following medical examinations, the prolific attacker has returned to his Turkish club for rehabilitation and further treatment. In his absence, Arokodare has stepped into the spotlight. The powerful forward was the hero in Nigeria’s previous fixture against the Amavubi of Rwanda, where he netted the decisive goal that secured all three points for the Super Eagles. The 24-year-old forward impressed with his commanding presence and sharp attacking instincts, earning the Player of the Match award for his outstanding display. This performance has given Nigerian fans renewed hope as the team faces the Bafana Bafana in what promises to be a tough encounter. Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to place full confidence in Arokodare to lead the line and provide the needed firepower for Nigeria. With two goals already in his first five international appearances, the Wolverhampton Wanderers man is gradually becoming a vital asset for the national team. The match against South Africa is crucial as both teams are battling for qualification in Group C of the 2026 World Cup race. Nigerian supporters will be counting on Arokodare’s resilience, energy, and finishing ability to fill the void left by Osimhen and keep the Super Eagles on track toward securing a spot in the global tournament.
