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Atiku, PDP Insist Results were Transmitted Electronically, Dismiss INEC’s Denials, Demand Access to Server, Results
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The Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate in the February 23 presidential election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, have filed a fresh application for access to information contained in the smart card readers and “central server”, which it said the Independent National Electoral Commission used for the conduct of the disputed election.
They filed the application before the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, where their petition challenging President Muhammadu Buhari and his All Progressives Congress’ victory at the poll is pending.
The petitioners, through their lead counsel, Dr. Livy Uzoukwu (SAN), made the request in their application filed before the tribunal, despite INEC’s insistence that the results of the election were manually collated and never transmitted electronically.
Uzochukwu, in a chat with SUNDAY PUNCH on Saturday, confirmed that the application was filed on May 9, adding that the respondents – INEC, Buhari and APC – had yet to file their replies to it.
INEC had declared that Buhari and APC the won the February 23 election with 15,191,847 votes to defeat his closest rival, Atiku who polled 11,262,978 votes.
But Atiku and the PDP, in their petition filed on March 18 to challenge the outcome of the poll, stated that “from the data” they obtained from INEC’s server, “the true, actual and correct results” showed that they polled a total of 18,356,732 votes to defeat Buhari whom they said scored 16,741,430 votes.
By calculation, Atiku and PDP claimed to have defeated Buhari by 1,615,302 votes. However, in its reply filed on April 10 to counter the petition, INEC urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition, insisting that the petitioners’ claims were false.
It said, through its lead counsel, Yunus Usman (SAN), that it collated the results of the election manually and never transmitted them electronically.
However, the petitioners, in their fresh application, maintained that INEC kept “central servers” in which “information was recorded and stored in database packets relating to accreditation of voters and transmission of results from the presidential election”.
They sought to be permitted to inspect the said servers and the card readers used for the conduct of the poll, examine and analyse the information obtained from them.
They also prayed for the tribunal’s permission to be allowed to file a report of their inspection, examination and analysis of the content of the facilities.
Their written address filed in support of the application read in part, “This motion is brought pursuant to Section 151 (1) and (2) of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended), Section 71 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended), Paragraphs 18 (7) (e), 41 (5) and (6), 47 (2) & 54 of the First Schedule to Electoral Act, 2010, (as amended), Section 6 (6) (b) Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and under the Inherent Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court.
“The motion prays for the following orders as expressed on the face of the motion paper, namely:
“An order allowing access or a court-supervised access and inspection by the Petitioners, in the presence of the 2nd and 3rd respondents (Buhari and APC) if they so desire, of the 1st respondent’s (INEC’s) central servers wherein information was recorded and stored in database packets relating to accreditation of voters and transmission of results from the Presidential election, the subject-matter of this petition.
“An order directing the 1st respondent’s Chief National Electoral Commissioner and/or other officers to grant the petitioners access to the said database packets in the 1st respondent’s central servers.
“An order granting leave to the petitioners to inspect and obtain certified true copies of Smart Card Reader accreditation data from the Smart Card Readers used in the said election and stored in the 1st respondent’s servers.
“An order granting leave to the petitioners to file a report of the inspection, examination and analysis thereof at the trial.”
The applicants filed 13 grounds to back their application and their claims in it.
Part of the grounds of the application acknowledged that INEC as well as the two other respondents to the petition — Buhari and APC — had contradicted their claim about the electronic transmission of results to the server.
But they insisted INEC was constitutionally and statutorily vested with the responsibility to conduct and manage the presidential election and set up electronic data central servers.
They stated, “The 1st respondent, as the body constitutionally and statutorily vested with the responsibility to conduct and manage the presidential election, set up electronic data central servers for the purposes of storage of transmitted accreditation data and results from smart card readers deployed for the election in an apparent bid to ensure relative transparency of the process.
“The respondents have, in their replies, joined issues with the petitioners in respect of the said data transmitted to the INEC’s central servers.”
But they said, “The Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) itself acknowledges network data by recognition given to the website of the Independent National Electoral Commission in section 71 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended). We also submit that section 84 of the Evidence Act, 2011 recognises computer data, and evidence generated therefrom.
“Thus, the general framework of the law accommodates such data retrievable from computers, of which a server is a storage component.”
Maintaining that INEC deployed the servers for the conduct of the February 23 poll, they said as part of the grounds of their application, “the results of the election were electronically transmitted to the 1st respondent’s Central Server”.
They added that notice had given INEC “notice that reliance will be placed on the extract of the electronic data from the said Central Server as at February 25, 2019”.
They added, “The data from the said central server is very material and relevant for the just determination of this petition.
“The petitioners require the data from the said central servers to maintain this petition.
“The petitioners also require the extract of the data from the smart card readers for the maintenance of the petition.
“The smart card readers were used at the said election for verification, accreditation, and authentication of voters and for the transmission of results to the 1st respondent’s servers.”
They added, “It will work tremendous hardship and grave injustice to refuse access to the contents of the central server that will assist the honourable court in the just consideration and determination of the issues involved in this matter or to allow a Party suppress or withhold access thereto.”
The Punch – Olusola Fabiyi and Ade Adesomoju
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been projected to emerge victorious in the 2027 presidential election, with a new political forecast giving him 20 states against nine for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and eight for NDC candidate Peter Obi.
The projection was made by the Political Intelligence Group (PIG) of Politico.ng, which assessed the current political landscape and projected how the three major political figures could perform if the presidential election were conducted under the circumstances prevailing at the moment.
According to the projection, Tinubu would have a clear advantage over his major rivals, although the group acknowledged that the political situation could change significantly before the actual election.
The forecast places Tinubu strongly in the South-West while also giving him important victories outside the region. Atiku is projected to maintain considerable strength across parts of Northern Nigeria, while Obi is expected to retain support in selected areas where he performed strongly during the 2023 presidential election.
Tinubu Projected to Win 20 States
According to PIG, Tinubu is currently projected to win 20 states, making him the leading candidate in the forecast.
The president is expected to dominate the South-West, with all six states in the region projected to fall into his column. The region remains politically significant because of its voting strength and Tinubu’s long-standing political influence there.
Tinubu is also projected to win Lagos State in the 2027 presidential election. This would mark a change from the 2023 presidential election, when Tinubu lost Lagos State to Peter Obi.
The latest projection says that Tinubu would regain the state in 2027. Lagos has been central to his political career and remains one of the country’s most important electoral territories.
The inclusion of Kano among the states projected to go to Tinubu is one of the more striking aspects of the forecast. Kano is one of Nigeria’s largest states by voting population and has traditionally been an important battleground during presidential elections.
A victory in Kano would provide Tinubu with a major northern foothold and could strengthen his ability to build a broad national coalition beyond his traditional South-West base.
Tinubu’s eventual performance, however, could depend heavily on how Nigerians assess his administration by 2027.
Economic conditions, inflation, employment, security, infrastructure and the cost of living could influence voters’ decisions. The administration’s policies and its ability to communicate its achievements may also become important campaign issues.
Religion and ethnicity could also play a role in the political calculations. Nigeria’s voting patterns are sometimes influenced by regional, ethnic and religious considerations, although these factors compete with economic and political issues.
Atiku Projected to Win 9 States
PIG projects that Atiku Abubakar would win nine states in the 2027 presidential election.
The former vice president is expected to perform strongly in Northern Nigeria, with Kaduna State projected to go to him alongside several states in the North-East and North-West.
Atiku’s strength in the region could be connected to his established political network and his previous presidential campaigns. His ability to mobilise support across northern states could make him one of Tinubu’s strongest competitors in the region.
Another issue that could influence Atiku’s support is his position on fuel subsidy.
Atiku has advocated a review of the current fuel subsidy policy and has spoken about measures aimed at reducing the burden of petrol prices on Nigerians. If the high cost of transportation and living remains a major concern by 2027, such a promise could appeal to voters who want immediate relief from rising household expenses.
However, the fuel subsidy debate is likely to be more complicated than simply promising cheaper petrol.
Voters may want to know where the money required to fund the subsidy would come from and whether restoring or expanding the policy would be financially sustainable. Questions surrounding government revenue, public spending and the opportunity cost of subsidy payments could therefore become major campaign issues.
Religion and ethnicity may also influence Atiku’s support in some areas, particularly where regional identity remains politically important. However, these factors cannot be assumed to determine how every voter will behave.
The strength of Atiku’s campaign could ultimately depend on whether he can combine his northern support with meaningful backing from other parts of the country.
Obi Projected to Win 8 States
Peter Obi is projected to win eight states, according to the Politico.ng forecast.
The projection also places the Federal Capital Territory in Obi’s column. Edo State is another state where the Labour Party candidate is expected to emerge victorious.
Obi’s projected support reflects the political base he developed during the 2023 presidential election, when he performed strongly in several parts of the country.
His campaign has continued to appeal particularly to voters seeking political change and a different approach to governance. Economic management, accountability, public spending and the need for greater efficiency in government are likely to remain central to his political message.
However, Obi’s challenge could be expanding his support beyond the areas where he has historically performed strongly.
The 2027 election is expected to be highly competitive, and the emergence of new political alliances could significantly change the distribution of votes.
If opposition parties eventually cooperate or form a coalition, the calculations surrounding Tinubu, Atiku and Obi could change dramatically. Likewise, defections, the choice of running mates and the strength of party structures could influence the final outcome.
Religion and ethnicity could also feature in the contest, particularly as politicians seek to build geographically and demographically balanced tickets. Nevertheless, voters could also prioritise issues such as economic hardship, security, employment and government performance.
Projection Could Still Change
PIG’s forecast should not be interpreted as the final result of the 2027 presidential election.
The group reportedly indicated that if the election were held in September under the political circumstances currently prevailing, the APC would win.
Under that scenario, Tinubu would secure 20 states, Atiku would win nine, while Obi would take eight.
However, the actual election is still ahead, giving the major political players considerable time to change the current political equation.
The economy could improve or deteriorate. Petrol prices could become a bigger or smaller issue. New alliances could emerge, and candidates could gain or lose popularity.
The debate over fuel subsidy could become particularly important if Nigerians continue to struggle with transportation costs and the broader cost of living. Atiku’s position could therefore become a significant campaign talking point, while Tinubu would likely defend the economic direction of his administration.
Beyond economic issues, regional interests, religion, ethnicity and political identity are likely to remain part of the broader electoral calculations.
For now, however, the Politico.ng projection places Tinubu in the strongest position with 20 states, followed by Atiku with nine and Obi with eight.
The coming months and eventual campaign season will determine whether those numbers remain intact or whether Nigeria’s political landscape produces another major realignment before voters finally head to the polls in 2027.
The Homat Megalite Event Centre, Igbogbo Road, Ikorodu, was filled to capacity penultimate Friday as Bottomline Media hosted the 2nd edition of the Ikorodu School Summit & Awards
With the theme, “Combating the Menace of Poor Orientation and Moral Decadence in Society,” the summit brought together students, teachers, school owners, parents, faith leaders, and security chiefs for a day of truth-telling, awards, and renewed commitment to rebuilding values in the society.
Supported by Education District II and LASUBEB, the summit has quickly become one of Ikorodu’s most important platforms for education, character, and community security.
The event recorded a strong presence from Nigeria’s security institutions. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Taiwo, was represented by the Area N Area Commander, Ijede, with the DPO, Igbogbo Police Station, CSP Akinola Clement who deployed full police security for summit also in attendance.
Speaking on behalf of the CP, the Area Commander commended Bottomline Media for the initiative and said there is an urgent need to “start early in educating the younger ones on moral uprightness.”
“An intelligent student without purpose and character will become an intelligent criminal,” he warned. He challenged society to pay more attention to values than to criminal success. “We celebrate criminal success at the expense of values. That must change if we want a safer Nigeria.”
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ikorodu Area Command, led by DCN Jonax David, delivered a hard-hitting lecture on the dangers of illegal and abusive drugs. The agency linked drug abuse directly to moral decadence and rising crime rates across the country.
NDLEA called on parents, schools, religious leaders, and teachers to do more in prevention and early intervention. The session left students asking questions and teachers requesting follow-up sensitization in schools.
Guest Speaker, Pastor Lanre Temenu, Pastor, Chapel of Transfiguration, COT Solution Centre, LASUTECH, anchored the moral conversation. His message on discipline, purpose, and right orientation resonated with audience who filled the hall from various discipline.
Dr. Henry Obidi anchored the programme with professionalism and energy, ensuring the day ran seamlessly from opening to the final award.
Proprietor of Homat Schools, Alhaji Olawale Amusa, hosted the summit at the Homat Megalite Event Centre, providing the venue that made the large turnout possible.
The awards segment was the emotional high point. Seven Prominent individuals and institutions were honoured and received a full 60-second standing ovation from the audience.
60-Second Standing Ovation Honorees
1. CP Fatai Tijani: Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command
2. Lagos State Ministry of Education
3. Lagos State Ministry of Information & Strategy
4. Femi Falana, SAN , Legal luminary
5. Hon. Jimi Benson Member, House of Representatives, Ikorodu Federal Constituency
6. Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, Senator, Lagos East Senatorial District
7. Ikorodu Division Peace & Security Initiative, Ikorodu
Champion of Moral Excellence & Societal Values Award
1. Lawrence Obilana: Proprietor, Meaning Resources School
2. Owenaze Blessing Ella: Managing Director, Unique Prella Schools
3. Pastor Lanre Temenu: Pastor, Chapel of Transfiguration, COT Solution Centre, LASUTECH
4. Princess Mulikat Fehintola Sanni, CEO, Mulifelong Motors
Excellence Recognition Award
Hon. Deen Sanwola, Mrs. Eyitayo Mojisola Olawunmi, Alhaji Taiwo Abiodun Odumbo, Dr. Henry Obidi, Alhaji Olawale Amusa.
Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu: Executive Chairman, LASUBEB, Mr. Adesegun Ogundeji – Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Information & Strategy, Dr. Bishop Joseph Edoro, Mr. Omotayo Layemo Sanni – Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District II, Hon. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, DCN Jonax David – Area Commander, NDLEA Ikorodu, and Engr. Mukadas Opeodu.
Education & School Excellence Awards
1. Miss Oyebode Sekinat Kofoworola, Civil Service Senior Model College, Igbogbo – _Outstanding Teacher of the Year_
2. Government Senior Model College, Owutu – _Outstanding Secondary School in Output_
3. Miss Alabi Taiwo Patience, Ikorodu Junior Grammar School – _Best Innovative School_
4. Lagos State Girls Junior Model College, Agunfoye – _Outstanding School with Best Learning Environment_
5. Mrs. Bolanle Moronkola Esho, Lagos State Civil Service Junior Model College, Igbogbo – _Best Education Administrator_
From the packed hall to the interactive Q&A, the summit achieved its goal: to confront poor orientation head-on and equip the next generation with character to match their intelligence.
Arthur Igbolaju Richard, Convener, Ikorodu School Summit & Awards 2.0 and CEO, Bottomline Media, said the goal is to make the summit an annual movement. “When students hear from the Police, NDLEA, Lawyers, teachers, and faith leaders in one room, the message is clear: society is watching, and society cares. We will keep building this table.”
With Education District II, LASUBEB, NDLEA, and the Nigeria Police on board, Ikorodu School Summit & Awards 2.0 ends as more than an event. It ends as a call to action.
#IkoroduSummit2.0 #ValuesFirst #BottomlineMedia
Wema Bank has introduced a new jingle to mark the next phase of its digital banking journey, tagged the ALAT: The Evolution jingle. Designed to capture the energy of a smarter and more seamless banking experience, the jingle is bright, catchy, and full of life. It reflects a platform built to simply work, pairing sound with innovation as ALAT: The Evolution steps forward with enhanced features and a refreshed user experience.
Everyday banking can often feel routine or even stressful, with multiple steps and delays slowing things down. The ALAT: The Evolution jingle reimagines that experience with a lively and confident tone that mirrors the app’s capabilities. From voice banking with SAW to Tap and Pay and bank uptime prediction, each feature is echoed in the rhythm and flow of the sound. It brings to life the speed, convenience, and reliability that define this new phase of ALAT: The Evolution.
More than just music, the ALAT: The Evolution jingle represents a clear statement of intent. It signals a shift towards banking that feels natural, responsive, and in tune with the user. As customers update their app and explore ALAT: The Evolution, the jingle serves as a reminder that a better, smoother way to bank is already here. Wema Bank is not just evolving its technology; it is shaping how banking feels.
