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Senior Police Officers Seek Continuity, Akande Endorses Fayoade for IGP

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is facing increasing pressure on the future of multiple Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs) due to worries that Olatunji Disu, the recently appointed DIG, does not have a solid management team.

Senior officers in the Nigeria Police Force are lobbying to keep their positions due to strong internal maneuvering caused by uncertainty around the top hierarchy, according to multiple sources within the force.

Just two months before Disu was due to retire at the necessary age of sixty, he received his position.

Disu was elevated to Assistant Inspector-General on March 6, 2025, after being born in Lagos State on April 13, 1966. Prior to being promoted to IGP, he was scheduled to retire on April 13, 2026.

However, regardless of age or years of service, an Inspector-General is entitled to a fixed four-year term under the modified Police Act, which means Disu might hold the position until 2030.

Despite this clause, insiders assert that any extension beyond his original retirement timeframe may be complicated by new institutional and political circumstances.

According to sources who spoke with Sahara Reporters, certain current DIGs are under increasing pressure to stay in their positions, claiming that any significant reorganization would be premature given Disu’s approaching retirement.

The President is allegedly being urged by various stakeholders to restructure the leadership structure so that the next IGP may put together his own reliable management team.

According to a source close to the presidency, “pressure has been building to fire the DIGs because the newly appointed IGP, Disu, has no management team to work with, and the DIGs are building pressure of their own to remain because they claim Disu is retiring soon.”

Allegations of political lobbying over possible succession scenarios complicate the situation.

According to sources, DIG Adegoke Fayoade’s retention is being pushed for by former APC National Chairman Bisi Akande in order to position him to succeed Disu.

“Bisi Akande is especially working to keep DIG Adegoke Fayoade on board in the hopes that he will succeed Disu. Tinubu is still under pressure from him, according to a source.

Insiders claim that Fayoade might be kept and put in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (FCIID) while leadership talks are ongoing, even if a restructure eliminates other DIGs.

Internal divisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), in particular, are said to have resurfaced as a result of the development.

Following the departure of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun, news surfaced last week that the Presidency had stopped a planned mandatory retirement of roughly thirty DIGs and AIGs.

Several DIGs, including those in charge of Finance, Logistics, ICT, Training, and Research and Planning, were tagged for retirement in order to maintain command hierarchy, according to an internal list that circulated within the Force.

However, President Tinubu stepped in to halt the mass retirement, according to a source close to the presidency.

The insider stated, “The new acting IGP Disu needs their experience, so the Presidency has stopped firing DIGs and AIGs.”

Jonathan and Kwankwaso Joint Ticket Could Rattle APC, Primate Ayodele Warns

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Primate Elijah Ayodele, the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has forecast that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would be seriously challenged in the upcoming general election by a potential presidential ticket that includes former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Ayodele stated that such an alliance will upend the APC and make the election extremely competitive during a recent church service that was posted online.

He claims that “Jonathan and Kwankwaso will be on that ticket, and it’s going to give the APC Tinubu government a very tough time.”

The clergyman suggested that Kwankwaso think about becoming a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He pointed out that the party might offer a stage for a powerful opposition movement.

He said, “Kwankwaso should go to ADC,” implying that doing so will help assemble a strong presidential team.

The ruling party would not have an easy time winning the next election, Ayodele emphasized.

It won’t be a simple election. He said, “No, it’s not.”

The political environment might change dramatically before people cast their ballots, he continued.

Additionally, he asserted that backing for the proposed alliance could come from abroad.

DSS Arrests Man Over Alleged Assassination Plot Against Peter Obi, Others

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According to reports, Obi and a number of leaders and members of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), as well as former All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman John Oyegun, barely avoided death on February 24 when armed men opened fire during a political gathering in Benin.

Later, Udeme Monday Stephen, a netizen, claimed responsibility for the attack and threatened Obi further on his 𝕏 account.

Online, Stephen declared that Obi was fortunate to have escaped in Benin and promised that the former presidential candidate would not have the same luck the next time.

“We cautioned Obi not to enter Edo State, but he confused our determination with the online chatter of his Obidiots. Thank heavens, Obi made it through this one.

“I found out he’s visiting my state, Rivers. My soldiers will take care of that one and they won’t miss the target. “A bastard is destined to die, so speak no peace to him and wish him a long life,” Stephen wrote.

The man has been taken into custody, according to Zagazola Makama, a security and counterinsurgency specialist in the Lake Chad region.

On Monday, Makama announced this via a post on its official X account.

According to the post, a top security source disclosed that DSS agents initiated a clandestine investigation as soon as the threat was made, using forensic equipment to track down and capture the suspect.

The source claims that Stephen teaches at Jessica High School in Eliozu, which is situated in the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State’s Umuehere Community.

The source emphasized, “I firmly believe that the result of the agency’s forensic investigations implicated the suspect.”

“You are aware that the DSS is always aware of its duty to investigate credible intelligence, regardless of tribe or religion, as a responsible security organization tasked with counter-espionage, VIP protection, and other asset protection duties.”

According to Makaka, the source stated, “They quickly deployed operatives, and the man who threatened Peter Obi was caught and is in custody.”

Borno Operation: Military Neutralises ISWAP Fighters, Recovers Arms

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In intense overnight fighting, troops of Operation HADIN KAI defeated ISWAP terrorists’ coordinated strikes on important military posts in Borno State, killing a number of rebels and seizing heavy weapons and ammunition.

Between the late hours of February 28 and the early hours of March 1, 2026, the Joint Task Force (North East) soldiers repelled attacks on Forward Operating Bases at Mayanti, Gajigana, and Gajiram as part of Operation HADIN KAI.

While soldiers at Gajigana were able to hold their ground and keep complete control of the base, the insurgents suffered significant fatalities in battles at Mayanti and Gajiram, and significant combat equipment was recovered.

On February 28, Mayanti was the target of a massive terrorist strike. While reinforcements battled through ambushes and threats of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to drive out the invaders, brave soldiers remained steadfast in the face of heavy enemy fire.

Five terrorist bodies were found by the army following the gunfight, along with a cache of weaponry that included three PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, two RPG-7 tubes, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, three RPG explosives, and a significant amount of 7.62mm ammo. More terrorists may have fled with gunshot wounds, according to bloodstains along the escape routes.

Nonetheless, the military affirmed that an officer gave his life in the conflict.

The Forward Operating Base in Gajiram was overrun by terrorists armed with PKT rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, and armed drones just hours later on March 1 at around 1:15 a.m. Determined soldiers, backed by air support, put up a fierce fight against the assault.

Three bodies were left behind by the terrorists as they fled in a disorganized manner. Additionally, troops found six fully filled 7.62mm NATO magazines, four AK-47 rifles, five anti-tank bombs, three locally manufactured mortar bombs, one armed drone, barbed wire cutters, specialized ammo, and poisoned arrows that had been left in flight.

A Nigerian Army Aviation chopper promptly transported one injured soldier for more specialized medical care.

At Kayawa Village, forces confronted terrorists who were escaping during associated offensive operations under Sector 2. Three motorcycles, five bicycles, and a tricycle were left behind by the rebels as they ran.

Additionally, troops detained two confessed ISWAP logistical providers and destroyed known life-support facilities used by the terrorists. Additionally found were medications and medical supplies intended to treat injured rebels.

Similar to this, troops neutralized two terrorists during an ambush operation near Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba Local Government Area. They also found a bicycle, four AK-47 magazines, and two AK-47 weapons.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the development.

“A significant number of terrorists attacked FOB Mayanti on February 28, 2026. While reinforcements battled through ambush and IED threats to defeat the invaders, valiant troops remained steadfast in the face of heavy enemy fire. Five terrorist bodies were confirmed to have been used, and three PKT automatic anti-aircraft weapons, two RPG-7 tubes, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, three RPG bombs, and a significant amount of 7.62mm ammunition were recovered. Blood trails suggested that there may have been more victims.

Similar to this, on March 1, 2026, at around 01:15, terrorists armed with PKT rifles, RPGs, and armed drones attacked FOB Gajiram. However, resolute forces backed by air assets defeated them. Along the withdrawal route, three terrorist bodies, four AK-47 rifles, five anti-tank bombs, three locally manufactured mortar bombs, one armed drone, six fully loaded 7.62mm NATO magazines, barbed wire cutters, specialized ammo, and poisoned arrows left behind in flight were all found.

“Terrorists were forced to flee and abandon a tricycle, three motorcycles, and five bicycles during related offensive actions under Sector 2 at Kayawa Village.” Additionally, troops recovered medications and medical supplies used to treat injured terrorists, detained two confessed ISWAP logistical providers, and demolished identified life-support systems. Additionally, troops neutralized two terrorists during an ambush near Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba LGA and found two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, and other stuff. Every place is still completely under personal control.

He reiterated that soldiers will continue their offensive operations until all terrorist elements in the North-East theater were eliminated.

On Monday, two terrorists were killed and an automatic rifle was found in Benue by troops of Sector 1 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS).

This was verified in a Makurdi announcement by Lt. Ahmad Zubairu, the OPWS Headquarters Makurdi’s acting Media Information Officer.

According to Zubairu, the soldiers accomplished the feat while conducting a combined combat and confidence-boosting patrol along the Katsina-Ala–Zaki Biam Road.

According to the media and information officer, they quickly mobilized to the scene in coordination with Benue State Civil Protection Guard personnel, acting on reliable information provided by the people.

“Troops made touch with the suspected bandits upon reaching the designated site.

Two of the terrorists were neutralized during the ensuing battle, while the rest ran into the nearby jungle, possibly suffering gunshot wounds.

“One AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two green camouflage uniforms abandoned by the fleeing criminals were recovered by the troops after they exploited the area,” he stated.

The OPWS Commander, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara, was cited by Zubairu as praising the troops’ bravery, professionalism, and prompt response.

In the battle against terrorism and banditry, Gara stated, their proactive approach and dedication to duty continue to produce favorable outcomes.

The commander thanked the locals for their timely and useful intelligence, which was still essential to the operation’s success.

He reassured the locals of the military’s steadfast commitment to protecting people and property and urged them to continue cooperating with security services.

Setting a Strategic Security Agenda for New IGP, Olatunji Disu

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According to Linus Aleke, Nigerians and security experts have presented a list of strategic initiatives and changes that they think Acting Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu should follow in order to improve national security and fortify the Nigeria Police Force.

The Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has been presented with a comprehensive reform agenda by Nigerians and security professionals, who have urged him to take decisive action to reposition the Nigeria Police Force for increased efficiency and public trust. The necessity for strong leadership that fosters professionalism, discipline, and responsibility while rebuilding confidence between the police and the communities they serve is at the heart of their recommendations.

The use of intelligence-led policing to replace an excessive reliance on checkpoints and routine patrols is a recurrent theme in their submissions. Stakeholders claim that better intelligence collection and analysis would allow the Force to break up criminal networks across the country and respond more strategically to new threats.

Additionally, they emphasized that the police would be more credible and effective if operational standards were strengthened in accordance with worldwide best practices.

Another top priority was bettering the wellbeing of Force officers and personnel. In order to raise morale and promote greater dedication to duty, contributors emphasized the need for improved working conditions, contemporary equipment, appropriate clothing, and higher compensation. They emphasized that stronger cooperation between the police and local communities is essential to safeguarding lives and property across the country and asked for the full implementation of the Police Act, especially the sections pertaining to community policing and specialized units.

Sule Momodu, a former deputy commander-general of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), argued for broad reforms, stating that in order to effectively combat crime, no police division should have fewer than 20 operating cars.

Speaking during a news conference in Abuja, he emphasized the significance of sufficient logistics under each division’s purview. In addition to patrol cars, he suggested using bicycles, motorcycles, and foot patrols to increase security coverage, particularly in remote locations.

In order to reposition the Force, Momodu advised the Acting Inspector-General to give the full implementation of the new Police Act first priority.

He maintained that the Act’s correct application would improve productivity and service provision. He demanded better welfare packages, including enough uniforms and shoes, as well as upgraded radio communication equipment to guarantee smooth information transfer between divisional stations and state command headquarters, in addition to logistics.

Additionally, he insisted that intelligence-led policing should be prioritized above regular “show of force” operations and static roadblocks, which he claimed had little effect. While congratulating Disu on his appointment, Momodu emphasized that concrete reforms would ultimately define his term and expressed confidence in his ability to make the Force a more professional and people-friendly organization.

Momodu called attention to Section 20 of the Police Act, stating that police officers in Nigeria should not be paid less than those in other law enforcement agencies. He also called for the clause to be put into effect right away. Additionally, he suggested activating the Act’s provisions for specialized “spy police” teams to protect properties and VIPs, with the requesting organizations covering the costs of hiring, training, and compensation.

He claimed that this would enable the redeployment of thousands of personnel who had previously been tasked with protecting VIPs, lessen the financial strain on the government, and provide job possibilities.

In order to close policing gaps in marginalized neighborhoods, he also urged the activation of special constable laws. He suggested that the Acting Inspector-General get an executive summary of the Police Act from the Force’s legal department to guarantee thorough implementation of the law. Momodu also called for the establishment of community policing committees at the municipal and state levels, as well as the reactivation of police call centers in state capitals. He stated that improving divisional police stations across the country would improve operational performance and foster favorable working conditions.

Ambassador Ogbole Amedu Ode, a former spokeswoman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also emphasized better welfare, such as better housing and salaries, as a means of raising morale. Additionally, he demanded that operational standards be raised to align with global best practices. He suggested increasing recruiting to reach the widely cited ratio of one police officer to 400 inhabitants so that the police could take entire responsibility for internal security and the military could concentrate on protecting the country’s territorial integrity.

Odita Sunday, a renowned crime reporter and former president of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN), called on Disu to request a state of emergency for police funds. He maintained that without sufficient Force motivation and equipment, significant transformation would be difficult. He asserts that a typical police command should have at least 500 patrol cars, assisted by drones and helicopters. He also suggested significant emergency financing, sufficient monthly operational allotments for divisional headquarters, and higher constable salaries, cautioning that inadequate compensation weakens professionalism and creates unfavorable incentives.

In order to stop employees from abusing their positions, former FCT Command Commissioner of Police Lawrence Alobi advocated for strong oversight procedures. He advised Disu to concentrate on training, capacity building, and efficient monitoring while praising President Bola Tinubu for selecting a skilled officer. Alobi emphasized that effective supervision allows senior executives to direct subordinates and guarantee seamless operations. Additionally, he argued that the Inspector-General, who is familiar with the capabilities and deployment requirements of his officers, should have complete operational discretion, freeing the police from needless political meddling.

The authors as a whole concurred that repositioning the Nigeria Police Force requires professionalism, better welfare, intelligence-driven operations, and faithful application of the Police Act. They expressed hope that Acting Inspector-General Olatunji Disu’s resolute leadership and persistent reforms would greatly improve internal security and rebuild public trust in the Force.

One Dead, Five Missing After Nigerian Tugboat Sinks Off South Africa Coast

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After the Nigerian tugboat LEO sank in South African waters on Saturday night, a Nigerian national has been officially declared deceased.

According to reports, the ship, carrying eighteen passengers, went down after running aground in inclement weather. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and while 12 crew members were saved, five more are still unaccounted for.

The incident was revealed by the Federal Government in a statement sent to Dr. Magnus Eze, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, by the Special Assistant on Communication and New Media.

The statement claims that after the tugboat ran into problems about eighteen nautical miles off the coast between Cape Town and Durban, South African transport authorities notified Nigerian officials. After completing repairs in South Africa, the ship reportedly went aground during a storm while en way to Lagos.

Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, said that five people are still missing and that one death has been reported.

She further revealed that survivors are being transported to Port Elizabeth, where officials of the Nigerian High Commission are expected to receive them and provide necessary support.

The Federal Government stated that while attempts to find the missing crew members escalate, it is keeping regular communication with South African authorities. Although extreme weather has been identified as a contributing factor, maritime officials have not yet ascertained the complete circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Breaking: Edo Governor Okpebholo Demands Resignation of Government Officials

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All public employees, political appointees, and government employees planning to run for elective office in the upcoming election cycle have been instructed by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to step down by March 1, 2026, at the latest.

The Okpebholo government stated that the decision was made in strict accordance with the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026 in a Government Special Announcement dated February 28, 2026.

The statement, which was signed by Umar Musa Ikhilor, the Secretary to the State Government, cautioned that any officer who intends to take part in party primaries or any other election procedure must first resign from their job within the allotted period.

It pointed out that candidates who don’t follow the rules run the risk of being disqualified by the appropriate electoral authorities.

The statement stated, “This directive is issued in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, and is aimed at ensuring that all aspiring candidates do not run the risk of disqualification by the relevant electoral authorities.”

According to the administration, the goal of the policy was to encourage equity, openness, and a level playing field for all candidates.

It further emphasized that partisan political involvement should not jeopardize governance duties and that the impartiality and integrity of public institutions must be protected.

It said, “The government stresses that this requirement is meant to safeguard the integrity and neutrality of public institutions while simultaneously promoting fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants.”

In order to guarantee complete compliance, the Edo Governor instructed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to distribute the notice as widely as possible.

Tehran Condemns US‑Israel Strikes, Sends Letter to UN Calling Them Terrorism

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Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian Foreign Minister, formally accused Israel and the United States of committing a “cowardly act of terror” against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the country’s supreme leader, on Sunday.

Araghchi claimed in a letter to Security Council members and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that the US and Israel had intentionally targeted Khamenei on February 28 in “unprovoked and unjustified acts of aggression” against Iran’s sovereignty.I’m writing to urgently draw your attention to the most recent heinous and illegal conduct committed by the Israeli government and the United States against the wonderful country of Iran.The foundations of the international legal order will suffer permanent and irreversible harm for decades to come if such behavior is not addressed forcefully, Araghchi wrote in the letter. It will also give its perpetrators more confidence.

Referencing Article 2(4) of the UN Charter, which forbids the use of force against any state’s territorial integrity or political independence, he described the strike as a “grave and unprecedented breach” of international law.

Israel and the US have been attacking Iran since Saturday morning, killing the country’s supreme leader and numerous other high-ranking security personnel.

Many Gulf states closed their airspace as a result of Iran’s drone and missile attacks against US and Israeli targets in the area.

The letter affirmed Iran’s “inherent and unequivocal right” to self-defense by citing Article 51.With the aforementioned in mind, and at a time when the normalization of serious transgressions of international law unfortunately jeopardizes the integrity of the international system, the Islamic Republic of Iran humbly urges the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Security Council to fulfill their duties under the Charter to maintain international peace and security and to take prompt, decisive, and efficient action to ensure that the United States and the Israeli regime are held fully accountable for the aforementioned heinous terrorist act,” Araghchi stated.

As an official Security Council document, he asked that the letter be distributed. In AA

‘Massive Votes Await Me If I Contest Presidency’ – Nyesom Wike

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Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has said that he is still adored by many Nigerians.

Wike reportedly disclosed this to a few journalists on Monday at a media chat.

If he runs for president, the former governor of Rivers State expressed hope that Nigerians will overwhelmingly support him.

Wike emphasized his ability to relate to regular Nigerians and said his accomplishments in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory will always speak for him.

Wike also said he was confident his followers would win a repetition of the just ended council election in the nation’s capital.

“Nigerians still love me, and they will vote for me with great fervor if I run for president,” he stated.

In the meantime, Wike has justified the curfew that was implemented in advance of the Abuja area council elections on February 21, claiming that it was within his authority and that President Bola Tinubu had given his approval.

Wike insisted that he had the power to make security decisions, including limiting travel, because he was the “governor of the FCT.”

Wike responded to criticism that the restriction on human and vehicle mobility from 8 p.m. on Friday to 6 p.m. on Saturday was solely for security reasons.

‘Loopholes Remain in 2026 Electoral Act’ – Ex-INEC Officer

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Nigeria’s modified election legislative framework still has flaws that could jeopardize the nation’s democratic process, according to political science professor and former electoral commissioner Okechukwu Ibeanu.

Ibeanu made the comments while giving the keynote talk at a Citizens’ Townhall, an Abuja policy discussion on electoral changes, where he called on people to assume more responsibility for preserving democracy.

He pointed out that Nigerians frequently have too much faith in laws as the only way to overcome election difficulties, and that relying too much on legal frameworks in the absence of institutional and civic reforms may not produce the intended results.

“I believe the law still has holes and inconsistencies, and it’s a shame that it took the nation to agree that electronic transmission was included in the 2022 act after we debated a proviso. In reality, however, what we have done is to transport us back to 2018, when those discussions took place in this nation.

“We constantly tamper with the election law framework as though it has all the solutions to our electoral issues. More significantly, however, we give politicians—the same people the law is intended to regulate—the authority to change the Act,” he stated.

The professor claimed that Nigeria’s electoral legislation has undergone numerous repeals and reenactments along with numerous amendments, a pattern he deemed detrimental to a stable democracy.

“Amending and repealing the law should be its medicine, not its daily bread,” Ibeanu said, cautioning that frequent changes run the risk of transforming reforms into political ploys rather than protections for the rights of voters.

He went on to say that if the law is continuously changed, it may result in measures that are largely intended to further political agendas rather than safeguard voters’ rights.

Additionally, Ibeanu warned against the electoral commission’s overzealous regulatory control of political parties, comparing it to a “military regime spectre” if not properly balanced with democratic ideals.

He emphasized civic duty and exhorted Nigerians to take a more active role in keeping elected officials accountable and safeguarding their ballots. This is about you, citizens. Politicians and INEC are not the issue.

Our objective of a fully democratic nation will remain a pipe dream until voters are able to safeguard their ballots and exert control over those who purport to represent them,” he stated.

The political scientist also urged the electoral commission to produce clearer rules and recommendations to eliminate uncertainties and called for a thorough examination of particular sections of the election legislation, such as Sections 50, 60, and 62.

Prior to the general elections in 2027, President Bola Tinubu signed the Electoral Act 2026 into law on February 18, 2026, updating Nigeria’s electoral system.

The new law’s main features include: requiring results to be sent electronically to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal; acknowledging the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS); establishing new deadlines for candidate nominations and election notices; updating procedures for party primaries; and allocating funds for the electoral commission sooner.

Opposition parties and civil society organizations have criticized parts of the bill, claiming that specific discretionary powers granted to election officials during technical problems could influence accountability, despite the fact that the revisions aim to enhance openness.