By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has directed all resident electoral commissioners (RECs) to suspend publicity and arrangements for the planned voter revalidation exercise.

On Wednesday, INEC said it would commence a nationwide voter revalidation drive on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a letter signed by Rose Oriaran-Anthony, its secretary, the commission asked all RECs to commence necessary preparations for the exercise, including sourcing of personnel and preparation of INEC voter enrolment devices (IVED).

The letter also listed the timeline for the exercise.

The timeline shows that the exercise will begin at the LGA level from April 13 to May 2, before moving to the registration area (RA) level from May 5 to May 11, and subsequently to polling units (PUs) from May 13 to May 19.

The commission said its meeting with RECs earlier scheduled to hold physically on Thursday, April 9 at 11:00am will now be conducted virtually via Zoom.

“Further to the notice of meeting dated 3rd April 2026, please be informed that the meeting of the commission with Resident Electoral Commissioners scheduled for Thursday, 9th April 2026 at 11.00am will now hold virtually via Zoom,” the notice reads.

The commission advised RECs to remain in their respective states and await login details, which will be shared once arrangements for the virtual meeting are concluded.

“Consequently, RECs are advised to remain in their states and await the login details which will be shared once the meeting is set up,” INEC said.

The commission added that all publicity and preparations for the voter revalidation exercise should be put on hold pending further directives.

“RECs are also directed to step down all publicity and arrangements for the voter revalidation exercise and await further directives from the commission,” the notice added.

INEC expressed regret over any inconvenience caused by the changes, assuring the commissioners of its consideration.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Christian Association of Nigeria has called on Nigerians to embrace hope, unity, and collective action, declaring that the country can overcome its current challenges and “rise again.”

CAN made the call in its Easter message issued on Sunday and signed by its President, Daniel Okoh, noting that the season symbolises renewal and offers a timely message for a nation facing hardship.

“At Easter, we are reminded of a simple, enduring truth: no matter how hard life has been, rising again is always possible,” the statement read.

The association observed that many Nigerians are currently grappling with economic and security challenges, resulting in widespread anxiety and declining hope among citizens.

“Across the country, people are weary. Families are anxious. Many do not feel safe; others are struggling just to get by. For some, hope has grown faint. But Easter tells us this is not the end,” CAN stated.

The Christian body urged leaders at all levels to demonstrate responsibility and empathy, stressing that citizens expect tangible improvements in their living conditions.

“For those in leadership, this is a test of purpose. People must feel leadership, not just hear it. They are looking for action, empathy, and visible efforts to improve their lives,” the statement added.

CAN also charged the Church to play a more active role in providing hope and guidance during difficult times, urging it to stand with those facing hardship and offer direction.

“For the Church, this is a moment to stand firm and speak clearly. People are searching for hope they can hold on to. The Church must be present, standing with the struggling, offering direction, and helping to light the way forward,” it said.

Addressing Nigerians, the association called for unity and resilience in the face of adversity, warning against fear and division.

“There may be those intent on keeping the rest of us in fear, but we must resist, not with panic or division, but with courage, solidarity, and a shared belief in one another,” the statement read.

The Christian body emphasised that Easter represents not just a celebration but a conscious decision to confront challenges collectively.

“Easter is more than a celebration; it is a decision. A decision to rise above our differences, to stand together, and to confront what holds us back. And if we make that choice together, then Nigeria will rise again,” CAN added.

The association, while extending Easter greetings to Christians across the country, also prayed for peace, unity, and progress in Nigeria.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Hajiya Hadiza Attahiru Jega, wife of former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has died.

Her family confirmed the death in a statement issued on Sunday, April 5, 2026. According to the family, her Janazah (funeral prayer) will take place after Zuhr prayer at 1:30 p.m. at the National Mosque in Abuja.

Prof. Jega currently serves as Co-Chairman of the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee (PLRIC), Special Adviser to the President on Livestock Development, and Pro-Chancellor of both Nasarawa State University and Usman Danfodio University.

The late Hajiya Hadiza was widely known for her commitment to education and community development, particularly across northern Nigeria. The family prayed for Allah to grant her soul Aljannah Firdausi and called on friends, associates, and well-wishers to remember them in prayers during this period of mourning.

Bayero University, Kano, where Prof. Jega once served as Vice-Chancellor, also announced her demise and extended condolences. In a statement, the university said:

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. With total submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of the wife of our former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Attahiru Jega, OFR. Her Janazah will be held immediately after Zuhr prayer at the National Mosque, Abuja, today Sunday, 5th April 2026. May Allah grant her Aljannatul Firdaus and forgive her shortcomings. May He also grant the family the strength and patience to bear this loss. Ameen.”