Israel Election: Netanyahu Ahead, But Fails To Secure Majority

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October 28, 2026

Benjamin Netanyahu speaking at a podium to supporters at an indoor political rally in Jerusalem. — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses Likud supporters at the party's election headquarters in Jerusalem in the early hours of 28 October 2026, calling for "a strong, right-wing national government".

Israeli media forecast 54 seats for Netanyahu’s right-wing and ultra-Orthodox bloc against 47 for Gadi Eisenkot’s opposition, reversing exit polls that earlier favoured the challenger. Turnout hit 77.7%.

Israelis voted on Tuesday in an election both camps framed as a turning point, and by Wednesday morning the result was the one neither side wanted to predict: Netanyahu ahead, but short of governing outright.The numbers moved all night.

Exit polls from Israel’s main broadcasters initially gave the opposition the edge, with Channel 13 and Channel 12 projecting Gadi Eisenkot’s camp at 52 or 53 seats against about 50 for Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc, per AFP, Euronews and the Canadian Press.

Revised projections then swung the other way: Israel’s Channel 12 was reporting 52 seats for the Netanyahu bloc and 49 for Eisenkot.

With around 70.7 per cent of votes tallied on Wednesday morning, Israeli media forecasts reported by Reuters put the right-wing, far-right and ultra-Orthodox bloc at 54 seats against 47 for the opposition, with parties representing Arab citizens on 19. Likud was projected as the largest single party at between 24 and 27 seats, depending on the outlet.

Why he survives anyway

A majority in the 120-seat Knesset is 61 seats. Neither camp reached it, but the arithmetic favours Netanyahu’s survival rather than his removal. His bloc lost the majority it held, yet opposition parties from centre-left to hard-right would need Arab-list support to unseat him — an arrangement many have ruled out.

Opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot urged security chiefs to “stand firm” against political pressure, saying Netanyahu governed without a mandate.

Even if that barrier were crossed, Netanyahu remains prime minister in a caretaker capacity during coalition talks, or until a new election is called, potentially next year. Turnout was 77.7 per cent, the highest in more than two decades and roughly seven points above 2022, according to France 24.

Arab citizens, more than a fifth of the population, turned out heavily, with several citing open racism in Netanyahu’s cabinet, which includes a party leader convicted of inciting racial hatred.Netanyahu’s claim. Speaking to Likud supporters in Jerusalem after 3 a.m. local time, the prime minister called for “a strong, right-wing national government” and claimed a decisive mandate among Jewish voters.

He raised renewed joint military action against Iran with US President Donald Trump: “Israel faces a singular historical opportunity, together with our partner President Trump, to remove the existential threat of Iran once and for all.

But ulterior motives must not divert us from this sacred mission.” Trump, speaking at a campaign stop in Texas, said Netanyahu had done “very well” because of his endorsement, adding, “It might be winning or tie. The tie is sort of considered a win in that case because it’s a big chess match.”The opposition’s warning.

Eisenkot acknowledged Netanyahu was still in office as caretaker but said he had lost public support, urging him to retire from politics. He then addressed the security establishment directly: “Remember that you serve only the state and the interests of Israel’s citizens. Stand firm in the face of any attempt to challenge you.

You have my unequivocal backing

Netanyahu, do not dare use Israel’s security for your political needs.”The deeper shift. This was the first Israeli election since Hamas-led attacks killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, according to Israeli tallies, triggering wars in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.

Israeli voters casting ballots at a polling station during the October 2026 Knesset election. — Turnout reached 77.7 per cent, the highest in Israeli elections in more than two decades and about seven percentage points above 2022.

Reuters reports that the Gaza campaign flattened the territory and killed 74,000 Palestinians, leaving Israel increasingly isolated internationally, including in the United States. Netanyahu is wanted by the International Criminal Court on war crimes charges he calls absurd, and faces Israeli corruption charges he describes as an establishment plot.

The clearest outcome is ideological

Nearly all Jewish parties now share Netanyahu’s rejection of an eventual independent Palestinian state, the basis of internationally endorsed peace efforts since the 1990s. The centre-left that dominated Israel’s first decades and negotiated land-for-peace is now a small fringe. Netanyahu returned to power in 2009 and has held it since, except for 18 months when a fragile coalition briefly levered him out after four inconclusive elections in two years.“We refuse the occupation and racism, and we will remain here,” said Faten Gattas, a Joint List candidate, as the alliance’s headquarters in Nazareth erupted at the Arab parties’ record showing.

How Detainees Died in NSCDC Custody

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Rukky Esi

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October 28, 2026

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Officials at a meeting presenting findings on the deaths of detainees in NSCDC custody in Niger State. — Officials present the report of the investigative committee on the deaths of detainees in NSCDC custody in Niger State.

The Federal Government’s Independent Investigative Committee has attributed the reported deaths of 37 detainees in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State to asphyxiation.

The committee described the incident as preventable and blamed negligence by officers responsible for the detainees.

Group photograph of Nigerian government officials and security representatives standing outside a government building. — Government officials and security representatives pictured together as authorities address accountability and oversight within Nigeria’s security institutions.

According to findings reported by NTA News, the deaths occurred between September 16 and 17, 2026.

The committee recommended the summary dismissal of officers found primarily responsible for the incident.

The findings have raised serious questions about detention conditions, operational procedures and accountability within the NSCDC.

What Caused the NSCDC Custody Deaths?

The investigative committee identified asphyxiation, a condition caused by insufficient oxygen, as the cause of death.

The findings linked the tragedy to negligence and failures in the management of the detainees.

The committee also examined other possible causes of death.

However, it reported that physical assault and underlying medical conditions were not identified as causes of the fatalities.

The conclusion indicates that the deaths were preventable and raises questions about whether appropriate safety measures were followed.

When Did the Detainees Die?

Presenting the committee’s findings, its chairman disclosed that the deaths occurred between September 16 and 17, 2026.

The detainees had been taken into NSCDC custody following an operation in Niger State.

The incident subsequently prompted the Federal Government to establish an independent investigative committee to determine what happened.

The committee examined the circumstances surrounding the arrests, detention and deaths.

NSCDC Arrest Operation Lacked Official Approval

One of the committee’s major findings concerned the operation that led to the arrests.

According to NTA News, the committee established that the operation was conducted without an operational order or approval from the NSCDC National Headquarters.

This finding raises questions about the authorisation and supervision of the exercise.

It also highlights concerns about compliance with established operational procedures.

The committee’s findings suggest that failures occurred before the detainees were taken into custody.

Committee Recommends Dismissal of Officers

Following its investigation, the committee recommended the summary dismissal of officers found primarily responsible for the incident.

The recommendation followed its conclusion that negligence contributed to the deaths.

However, the proposed dismissals remain recommendations until the relevant authorities take formal disciplinary action.

The findings may also inform further investigations and accountability measures.

Why the Findings Matter

The NSCDC is responsible for enforcing laws and protecting public safety.

However, individuals taken into custody remain entitled to humane treatment and protection of their fundamental rights.

The committee’s conclusion that the deaths were preventable has renewed concerns about detention standards and the supervision of security operations.

It also raises questions about how unauthorised operations can occur and what safeguards exist to protect detainees.

What Happens Next?

The committee’s recommendations are expected to guide further government action.

Authorities will need to determine the disciplinary and legal measures to take against officers found responsible.

Attention will also turn to whether the NSCDC introduces stronger operational controls and detention safeguards.

The incident has underscored the importance of accountability, proper authorisation and humane treatment within Nigeria’s security institutions.

Tanzania Discovers 223 Billion Cubic Feet of Natural Gas

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Yemisi Lanre-Idowu

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October 28, 2026

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Tanzania Energy Minister Juma Homera announces a 223-billion-cubic-foot natural gas discovery at Mnazi Bay.

Tanzania has announced its first natural gas discovery in more than a decade, with an estimated 223 billion cubic feet of gas found at the Kasa-1X ST2 well in the Mnazi Bay area in the country’s south.

The discovery was announced at a ceremony attended by Energy Minister Juma Homera, who described it as a major milestone for Tanzania’s energy sector.

Natural gas production infrastructure in Tanzania’s Mnazi Bay region.

The well is jointly owned by the state-run Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and French oil and gas company Maurel & Prom.

Authorities expect production to begin early next month, with the new supply intended primarily to meet domestic energy needs.

New Gas Discovery to Support Tanzania’s Energy Needs

The discovery is estimated at 6.3 billion cubic metres of natural gas and comes as Tanzania seeks to meet rising energy demand driven by industrial expansion and other economic activities.

Homera said the find could help strengthen the country’s energy supply and support access to affordable and reliable energy.

Tanzania already holds substantial natural gas reserves, estimated at 57.54 trillion cubic feet, according to figures cited in the report.

Natural gas plays a major role in the country’s electricity sector. Government statistics for 2024 showed that it accounted for nearly 80 per cent of Tanzania’s electricity generation sources.

The additional discovery could therefore help reinforce the country’s domestic gas supply, although its longer-term impact will depend on production performance, infrastructure and demand.

Natural Gas Also Powers Vehicles

Beyond electricity generation, Tanzania has been encouraging the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel for vehicles.

Gas processing facilities and CNG filling stations have been established, particularly in Dar es Salaam, the country’s largest city.

Some motorists have converted their vehicles to dual-fuel systems, allowing them to use natural gas as well as petrol. Locally available gas can offer lower fuel costs than petrol, depending on conversion expenses, availability and prevailing prices.

The latest discovery could support the development of these domestic uses if additional gas reaches the market and the necessary distribution infrastructure is available.

A Look at Tanzania’s Natural Gas History

Tanzania’s natural gas exploration dates back to 1974, when the country made its first discovery on Songo Songo Island in the south-eastern Lindi region.

A second discovery followed at Mnazi Bay in the neighbouring Mtwara region in 1982. Commercialisation of the discoveries began in 2004, paving the way for further exploration both onshore and offshore.

One of the country’s largest discoveries came in 2016, when an estimated 2.7 trillion cubic feet of natural gas was found.

The latest find adds to Tanzania’s established gas resources and renews attention on the country’s potential to expand domestic energy production.

What the Discovery Could Mean for Tanzania

The immediate objective is to increase the gas available for local consumption, including electricity generation, industrial activity and vehicle fuel.

However, the scale of the economic benefits will depend on how quickly the well enters production, how much gas it can deliver commercially and whether supply can keep pace with growing demand.

Gas from the field will be for domestic and industrial power generation and also for vehicles.

For Tanzania, the discovery represents another step in developing its natural gas industry and using domestic resources to support its energy needs.

FG Approves ₦70,000 Allowance: Who Qualifies?

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Rukky Esi

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October 28, 2026

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President Bola Tinubu signing documents alongside bundles of Nigerian naira notes, illustrating the FG’s ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance. — The Federal Government has agreed to a ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for workers for six months, beginning in November 2026.

The Federal Government has agreed to introduce a ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for Nigerian workers for six months, beginning in November 2026.

The decision followed a conciliation meeting between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

According to a report by NTA News, the intervention is among several measures agreed upon to cushion the effects of rising petroleum pump prices on workers.

The resolutions also cover outstanding allowances, minimum wage negotiations and proposed tax relief.

Who Qualifies for the ₦70,000 Transport Allowance?

Federal Government of Nigeria coat of arms representing the FG's ₦70,000 transport allowance agreement — The Federal Government agreed to introduce a ₦70,000 monthly transport intervention for workers beginning in November 2026.

The agreement provides for a monthly transport intervention of ₦70,000 for six months, starting in November 2026.

However, the NTA News announcement did not specify the complete eligibility criteria or identify all categories of workers who would receive the payment.

It also did not explain whether the allowance would cover federal workers alone or extend to state government employees and other workers.

Further clarification from the Federal Government is therefore necessary to establish who qualifies and how the payments will be made.

If implemented throughout the six-month period, an eligible worker would receive a total of ₦420,000.

FG Agrees to Pay Outstanding Allowances

Beyond the transport intervention, the government and labour representatives reached agreements on outstanding workers’ entitlements.

According to the resolutions, peculiar allowance arrears will be paid in three equal monthly instalments beginning in November 2026.

The agreement also provides for the settlement of 19 months of outstanding allowances owed to health workers.

These payments are expected to be completed within three months, beginning in December 2026.

The measures are intended to address some of the longstanding welfare concerns raised by organised labour.

Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee to Begin Work

The Federal Government and NLC also agreed that the Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee should be constituted and begin meetings immediately.

The committee is expected to address outstanding issues relating to workers’ wages.

The development follows labour’s repeated demands for improved remuneration amid rising living costs.

However, the announcement did not provide a final figure for a revised minimum wage or a confirmed implementation date.

Tax Relief Proposal Referred to NEC

Tax relief was another issue discussed during the conciliation meeting.

Both parties agreed that the matter should be referred to the National Executive Council (NEC) for consideration.

The decision means that the proposed tax relief has not yet received final approval.

Further details are expected after the council considers the proposal.

Why Did FG Introduce the Transport Allowance?

The transport intervention is intended to reduce the financial pressure caused by rising petroleum pump prices.

Higher fuel costs have affected transportation expenses for workers who commute daily.

The agreement represents an attempt to address these concerns while broader negotiations over wages and workers’ welfare continue.

However, the allowance is temporary, covering only six months from November 2026.

What Happens Next?

Attention will now shift to the implementation of the agreements reached between the Federal Government and the NLC.

Workers will be awaiting clarification on eligibility, payment procedures and the commencement of the ₦70,000 monthly allowance.

The government is also expected to begin settling outstanding allowances according to the agreed schedule.

Meanwhile, the Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee is expected to commence discussions, while the proposed tax relief awaits consideration by NEC.

The effectiveness of the agreement will depend on whether the government implements the promised measures within the stated timelines.

Tinubu Seeks Approval for $20.5bn, €1.05bn Loans

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Rukky Esi

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October 27, 2026

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President Bola Tinubu signing a document during an official engagement as his administration seeks approval for $20.5 billion and €1.05 billion in external loans. — President Bola Tinubu, whose administration has requested National Assembly approval for $20.5 billion and €1.05 billion in external borrowing.

President Bola Tinubu has requested approval from the National Assembly to obtain $20.52 billion and €1.05 billion in external loans to finance infrastructure and development projects across Nigeria.

The request forms part of the Federal Government’s 2026–2027 Supplementary External Borrowing Plan.

Tinubu’s proposal was contained in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

The proposed borrowing amounts to $20,517,755,901 and €1,045,083,643.

According to the President, the loans would support economic growth, address infrastructure challenges and finance essential government programmes.

Why Tinubu Wants $20.5bn, €1.05bn Loans

President Bola Tinubu reviewing a document during an official meeting as Nigeria seeks approval for $20.5 billion and €1.05 billion in external loans. — President Bola Tinubu during an official meeting, as his administration seeks National Assembly approval for $20.5 billion and €1.05 billion in proposed external borrowing.

Tinubu explained that Nigeria requires additional financing to address infrastructure deficits and accelerate economic development.

The President said the proposed borrowing would support projects in critical sectors, including:

Power and transportation infrastructure
Agriculture and food security
Healthcare and education
Water supply and security
Employment generation and skills development
Financial management reforms

He maintained that the projects were selected following technical and economic evaluations to determine their potential contributions to national development.

The President also argued that external borrowing would help bridge financing gaps that have delayed major infrastructure projects.

Projects to Cover Nigeria’s 36 States

Tinubu disclosed that most of the projects under the proposed borrowing plan would be implemented across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the investments are expected to create employment opportunities, promote entrepreneurship and improve access to essential services.

The administration also expects the projects to support poverty reduction and strengthen food security.

However, a detailed project-by-project breakdown of the proposed loans was not provided in the letter presented during the Senate proceedings.

The specific financing terms and amounts allocated to individual sectors have also not been publicly detailed.

Senate Begins Review of Borrowing Request

The borrowing proposal has been forwarded to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.

Following the presentation of Tinubu’s letter, Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the request to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts for further scrutiny.

The committee is expected to work with other relevant committees, including Appropriations, where necessary.

Akpabio directed the committee to report back to the Senate within one week.

Lawmakers are expected to examine the proposed financing arrangements, the projects involved and their implications for Nigeria’s public finances.

The request has not yet received final legislative approval.

Nigeria’s Rising Debt Raises Concerns

The latest borrowing proposal comes amid continuing concerns about Nigeria’s public debt and the cost of servicing existing obligations.

Nigeria has relied on domestic and external borrowing to finance budget deficits, infrastructure projects and other government programmes.

Economists have repeatedly warned that rising debt-service obligations could reduce the resources available for education, healthcare and infrastructure development.

The International Monetary Fund and World Bank have also emphasised the importance of improving revenue collection and ensuring that public borrowing supports productive investments.

The Federal Government, however, maintains that carefully planned external financing remains necessary to address the country’s development challenges.

What Happens Next?

The Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts will review the proposed borrowing plan and submit its recommendations to lawmakers.

The National Assembly will then determine whether to approve the request.

Until legislative approval is secured, the proposed $20.52 billion and €1.05 billion facilities remain borrowing requests rather than approved loans.

The outcome will help determine how the Federal Government finances its planned infrastructure and development programmes under the 2026–2027 borrowing framework.

Senate Targets State Police Law Before Christmas

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Rukky Esi

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October 27, 2026

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Nigerian senators during a plenary session at the National Assembly as lawmakers work towards passing the state police bill. — A plenary session of the Nigerian Senate at the National Assembly in Abuja, as lawmakers push to finalise state police legislation before Christmas 2026.

The Nigerian Senate has expressed confidence that legislation establishing state police will be completed before the National Assembly’s Christmas recess.

The development follows the approval of the proposed constitutional amendment by the required number of state Houses of Assembly.

Nigerian Senate emblem displayed over the National Assembly chamber as lawmakers consider legislation to establish state police. — The Nigerian Senate is working towards passing legislation to establish state police before Christmas 2026.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, disclosed the position while discussing the progress of the state police legislation.

He said lawmakers were committed to concluding the process before the end of 2026.

State Assemblies Approve Police Amendment

At least 24 state Houses of Assembly have approved the constitutional amendment required to establish state police.

The approval meets the two-thirds threshold required from Nigeria’s 36 state legislatures.

Ondo State also passed the amendment on Monday, October 26, adding to the number of states supporting the proposal.

The amendment seeks to restructure Nigeria’s policing system by introducing Federal Police and State Police Services.

Why Nigeria Wants State Police

Supporters of state policing argue that decentralising security operations could improve intelligence gathering and response times.

They believe state-based officers may have greater familiarity with local communities and the security challenges affecting them.

Nigeria continues to face serious security problems, including kidnapping, banditry and attacks on rural communities.

Proponents say state police could complement federal security operations by bringing law enforcement closer to residents.

However, concerns remain about possible political interference, abuse of authority and the funding of state-level police institutions.

What Happens Before State Police Becomes Law?

The Presidential Working Group on the National Policing Bill has submitted draft legislation and related amendment bills to the Ministry of Justice for review.

The proposed framework is expected to define the responsibilities, structure and powers of federal and state police services.

Following legal review and executive consideration, the relevant proposals will proceed through the remaining legislative processes.

Senate officials have indicated that lawmakers will examine the required documents once formally received.

Although the necessary state-level approval threshold has been reached, state police has not yet become operational.

Senate Promises Faster Legislative Action

Adaramodu said the National Assembly recognised the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

He expressed confidence that lawmakers would conclude the legislation before the Christmas break.

The proposed reforms could represent one of the most significant changes to Nigeria’s policing structure in decades.

However, their eventual impact will depend on the final legal framework, funding arrangements, accountability mechanisms and implementation.

Nigeria Misses Revenue Target by ₦20.7tn

By

Rukky Esi

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October 27, 2026

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Nigeria's Federal Government faces a ₦20.7 trillion revenue shortfall in 2026 amid concerns over budget performance and economic stability. — Nigeria records a ₦20.7 trillion revenue shortfall against its 2026 budget projections, raising concerns over government spending, fiscal sustainability and infrastructure financing.

Nigeria recorded a ₦20.74 trillion shortfall in statutory revenue against its budget target for the first ten months of 2026, raising fresh concerns about government financing despite rising international crude oil prices.

An analysis of Federation Account figures reported by The PUNCH showed that statutory revenue reached approximately ₦26.14 trillion between January and October.

However, the government’s budget projection for the same period stood at ₦46.87 trillion.

The difference represents a shortfall of approximately 44.24 per cent.

Why Nigeria Missed Its Revenue Target

The revenue gap emerged despite a significant increase in international crude oil prices following disruptions to global energy supplies.

Nigeria, as an oil-producing country, was expected to benefit from higher crude prices through increased export earnings and government revenue.

However, the reported figures indicate that higher oil prices alone were insufficient to meet the government’s revenue expectations.

Oil production volumes, export receipts, exchange rates and revenue collection efficiency can all influence the amount eventually available for government expenditure.

Revenue Improved but Remained Below Budget

According to the report, statutory revenue increased from approximately ₦1.63 trillion in January to ₦4.36 trillion in August.

August recorded the strongest monthly performance during the period under review.

However, receipts declined to approximately ₦2.85 trillion in September before recovering to ₦3.10 trillion in October.

Despite these improvements, revenue remained below the monthly budget benchmark of approximately ₦4.69 trillion.

The figures suggest that Nigeria’s revenue performance improved during parts of the year without closing the overall budget gap.

What the Shortfall Means for Nigerians

A persistent revenue shortfall could place pressure on government spending and the implementation of budgeted programmes.

Infrastructure development, public services and capital projects could face financing challenges if revenue remains significantly below projections.

However, a revenue shortfall does not automatically mean that every planned government project will be cancelled or delayed.

Actual spending decisions will depend on available financing, borrowing, budget adjustments and government priorities.

Finance Minister Questions Budget Projections

Taiwo Oyedele speaking into a microphone during an official engagement as Nigeria faces a reported ₦20.7 trillion revenue shortfall. — Nigeria records a ₦20.7 trillion revenue shortfall against its 2026 budget projections, raising concerns over government spending, fiscal sustainability and infrastructure financing.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, recently raised concerns about unrealistic revenue projections in Nigeria’s budgeting process.

Speaking at Chatham House in London, he argued that government budgets should be based on more realistic expectations of revenue generation.

The latest figures have renewed questions about the sustainability of Nigeria’s fiscal projections and its ability to convert favourable oil-market conditions into stronger public finances.

INEC Publishes 2027 Voter Register Online

By

Rukky Esi

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October 27, 2026

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INEC officials during preparations for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria as the commission publishes the preliminary voter register online. — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the preliminary 2027 voter register online to improve transparency and allow Nigerians to verify their registration details.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the preliminary voter register for the 2027 general elections online following growing concerns about public access to the document.

The commission announced the decision on Monday, October 26, explaining that the move would strengthen transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.

The development followed calls from political parties, candidates and civil society stakeholders demanding wider access to the register.

Why INEC Published the Voter Register Online

INEC had earlier displayed the preliminary register physically at registration areas across the country between October 9 and 15.

However, concerns emerged over the limited accessibility of the document, particularly for Nigerians unable to visit registration centres during the exercise.

The commission subsequently decided to make the same preliminary register available through its online platform.

INEC said the decision was intended to complement the physical display and give more Nigerians an opportunity to examine the information.

How Nigerians Can Check the Register

Registered voters can access the preliminary register through INEC’s official display platform at https://display.inecnigeria.org.

The platform allows members of the public to examine the register ahead of its final certification.

Voters are encouraged to check the accuracy of their registration details and follow INEC’s official procedures for submitting claims or objections.

Screenshot of INEC's online 2027 voter register showing voter records organised by surname and polling location. — A screenshot of INEC’s online voter register display showing how Nigerians can search voter records ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The commission said it was continuing to process complaints arising from the verification exercise in accordance with the Electoral Act, 2026.

When Will INEC Publish the Final Register?

INEC has scheduled December 15, 2026, for the certification and publication of the final voter register.

Before that date, the commission is expected to address eligible claims and objections raised during the verification process.

The final register will form an important part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

INEC has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, urging stakeholders to support efforts aimed at delivering credible elections.

Who Is Buying The Gold That Funds Congo’s Deadliest Insurgency?

By

Priscilla Udusegbe

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October 27, 2026

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Artisanal miner in Congo — Artisanal mining sites in North Kivu are where the ADF earns an estimated $1m–$1.6m a year, according to The Sentry.

A decade of Ugandan troops and a round of US sanctions have not starved the Allied Democratic Forces. According to a new report, it is because the group has become a mining operation.

An Islamic State-aligned insurgency in eastern Congo generates most of its revenue from gold production and smuggling, financing its own operations, a report said on Tuesday.

The Sentry, the US-based investigative organisation that tracks conflict and illicit financial networks, found the Allied Democratic Forces — accused of killing thousands of civilians and security personnel over the last decade — earns between $1 million and $1.6 million a year from gold mining sites in one area of North Kivu province alone.

The gold moves through trading hubs in eastern Congo to refiners and export networks in neighbouring Uganda. That is a central irony: Uganda has deployed thousands of troops into Congo to help local forces fight the ADF, yet the group has proved resilient by embedding itself in the very economic networks the borderlands run on.

Miners in Congo — Artisanal miners working a hand-dug gold pit in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The financial independence is recent and consequential. Gold revenue has let the ADF rely less on support from Islamic State since late 2024, when US sanctions targeted key facilitators in its networks.

The group still earns from cocoa production, extortion and kidnapping. “The ADF has adapted to military pressure and sanctions by finding new ways to fund its operations, particularly through gold and other resource trafficking,” said Justyna Gudzowska, executive director of The Sentry. “That means going after the financiers, gold traders, and facilitators.”

Gold scale — The report says gold is trafficked through eastern Congo’s trading hubs to refiners and export networks in Uganda.

The report describes how the arrangement works on the ground. A representative of a Congolese mining cooperative, speaking anonymously for security reasons, said the ADF moved into the area in mid-2024 and established bases near mining sites, abducting miners and prospectors to extract, transport and sell gold on its behalf.

Some residents cooperated for payment — a system sustained by coercion and economic incentive at once.

Historically, the ADF was founded as an Islamist group in Uganda in the 1990s, shifted most operations into eastern Congo by 2000, and pledged allegiance to Islamic State in 2019. It has since carried out bomb attacks in Uganda and drawn fighters from across the region. Joint Congolese-Ugandan operations from late 2021 secured major cities and trade routes but fragmented rather than defeated the group, pushing it into remote mining areas of North Kivu, Ituri and Tshopo provinces.

Spokespersons for Uganda’s army and both governments did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The ADF’s persistence is also a question of attention: most international focus in eastern Congo remains on the Rwanda-backed AFC/M23 rebellion, now known as FRN, which seized large swathes of territory last year.

Cancer Surgery Won’t Stop Pope Leo’s Peru Homecoming – Vatican

By

Priscilla Udusegbe

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October 27, 2026

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Decorations and pope banners in a street in Chiclayo, northern Peru, ahead of Pope Leo XIV's November 2026 visit.

Chiclayo to Zaña, the country that made Robert Prevost is refurbishing churches for a pope it still remembers in rubber boots — even as two in ten of its adults have stopped calling themselves Catholic.

Pope Leo XIV will keep his South America tour, the Vatican confirmed on Monday, with the 6–17 November itinerary through Uruguay, Argentina and Peru intact. It comes weeks after the 71-year-old pope underwent surgery for lung cancer.

For Peru, this is not a state visit to a foreign dignitary. Robert Prevost arrived in 1985 at age 30 as an Augustinian missionary, returned in 2014, and became bishop of Chiclayo in 2015.

He took Peruvian citizenship, and in 2020, during one of the world’s strictest pandemic quarantines, helped open a soup kitchen in the small town of Zaña. “He gave us an example of human charity, and we prepared the ‘aguadito con fe’,” said former cook Betty Burga Campos.

T-shirts printed with an image of Pope Leo XIV — In Lima’s Gamarra market, the pope as local icon: smiling over a plate of ceviche. “The Pope and the papa are Peruvian.”

Residents remember a bishop in constant motion: horseback trips to isolated Andean communities, long self-driven hauls across the country’s north, and rubber boots through knee-deep water during the 2017/2023 El Niño flooding. “The distances were not limits, the distances were opportunities,” said Father David Farfán of Zaña.

Journalist Verónica Castillo of Chiclayo recalls a prelate who “wasn’t very focused on being with the press; he was more with the poor and in social conflicts,” citing his mediation of a violent labour dispute against a sugar company in 2015.

In 2018 he founded a Catholic organisation in Chiclayo for Venezuelan newcomers, which has since assisted thousands; Peru hosts the world’s second-largest Venezuelan diaspora, more than 1.5 million people.

Northern Peru residents, still recalling the bishop who delivered aid through El Niño floodwater, prepare celebrations for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Chiclayo.

The political and religious backdrop is harder than the welcome. Pew Research Center puts Peruvian adult Catholic identification at 67%, down from 76% a decade earlier to 2024, a slide linked to social change and distrust of institutions after a decade that saw nine presidents.

The visit carries unfinished local business too: in Eten, near Chiclayo, Catholics hope Leo will advance Vatican recognition of a reported 1649 Eucharistic miracle he backed as bishop.

Meanwhile commerce has already decided — Gamarra seamstresses are printing the pope eating ceviche, under the slogan “The Pope and the papa are Peruvian,” with one maker predicting a 200% jump in orders.