News November 12, 2026 INEC flags staff in 10 states over AI voter photos

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed artificial intelligence-generated photographs uploaded to the national voters’ register and flagged officials implicated in the practice across 10 states for disciplinary action.

INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed this on Wednesday during a webinar organised by the PUNCH Media Foundation, titled ‘AI, Misinformation and Nigeria’s 2027 Elections: Safeguarding the Truth, Protecting the Vote’.

Haruna, who is also Chairman of the commission’s Information and Voter Education Committee, described the development as a major challenge, noting that the commission had already taken down AI-generated photographs identified on the voters’ register.

He, however, acknowledged that INEC faced limitations in preventing members of the public from manipulating or enhancing their photographs before uploading them during voter registration.

The commissioner said the commission had also identified cases involving its own personnel and was taking steps to address the violations.

“We have already seen one of the challenges, which is that a lot of AI-generated photographs were posted onto the voters’ register, which, as we have said, we have had to take down,” he said.

Haruna explained that while it might be difficult for the commission to prevent members of the public from manipulating their photographs before submission, it had greater control over violations involving its officials.

“But the ones involving our own staff, where it is our own staff that did so, that one is within our control. We are in the process of addressing it. They have been flagged,” he said.

He disclosed that the commission had obtained the names of the officials involved across about 10 states, adding that they would face disciplinary action.

“We have their names across about 10 states, and obviously, they are going to face disciplinary action,” he added.

On INEC’s preparedness to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections, Haruna said the commission had developed an AI policy but was working to finalise it.

He noted that the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence had created regulatory challenges for countries across the world, including advanced democracies.

According to him, the evolving nature of the technology has made it difficult for governments to establish comprehensive and specific regulatory frameworks.

“As you know very well, it is new territory out there. Even the most advanced countries don’t have what you might call concrete, specific policies about AI because these things are evolving,” he said.

Haruna, however, said INEC had developed ideas on how it intended to deploy and regulate the technology, assuring that the policy would soon be finalised and made available to the media.

“But we have at least some ideas of what we want to do and how we want to use that. We have that policy. Very soon, we will concretise it, and we will be able to share it with the media,” he said.

News November 12, 2026 Zamfara commissioner dies at 50

The Zamfara State Commissioner for Commerce, Tasiu Musa Shinkafi, has died at the age of 50 following a brief illness.

Shinkafi reportedly died on Wednesday in Kaduna, throwing the state government and his associates into mourning.

Governor Dauda Lawal, who expressed sadness over the development, described the commissioner’s death as a major loss to the state and its people.

In a condolence statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor said Shinkafi’s death was a painful development for his family, the government and the entire people of Zamfara State.

He said, “With heavy hearts and in total submission to the will of Almighty Allah (T), we received the shocking news of the passing of the Commissioner for Commerce, Tasiu Musa Shinkafi.

“Tasiu’s death is a great loss not only to his family and the state government, but also to the people of Zamfara.

“He will be remembered for his dedication, honesty, and commitment to Zamfara State.

“He served diligently as Commissioner for Youth and Sport before being redeployed to the Ministry of Commerce.

“As a valued member of my administration and a brother in service, his contributions to governance, politics, and public service will be remembered.

“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and give his family the strength to bear this great loss.”

The late commissioner previously served as Commissioner for Youth and Sports before his redeployment to the Ministry of Commerce.

News November 12, 2026 Relegation-struggling Man Utd fire Carrick, close in on Pochettino

Manchester United have dismissed head coach Michael Carrick following the club’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, with former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino emerging as the leading candidate to take over.

Carrick’s dismissal was announced on Thursday after United managed just eight points from their opening 10 league matches, leaving the former English champions in the relegation zone.

The former United midfielder had enjoyed a successful spell last season, guiding the club to third place after winning 12 of their remaining 17 matches in the 2025/26 campaign.

However, the team’s poor performances this season, including just three victories in 15 matches across all competitions, reportedly convinced the club’s hierarchy that a managerial change was necessary.

In a statement confirming his departure, Manchester United said: “Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach,” the club said in a statement.

“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period.

“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary to achieve our ambitions.”

Carrick’s final match was Sunday’s dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. Despite the disappointing result, he had indicated that he was not prepared to resign from his position.

Reports suggest that the decision to part ways with the former midfielder was reached on Wednesday at a meeting in Monaco attended by co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox.

Carrick had initially earned praise for stabilising the team following the departure of Ruben Amorim, whose tenure ended with his dismissal in January.

However, United’s struggles this season have been compounded by what was described as an underwhelming transfer window and growing tensions within the squad.

The former manager also faced disciplinary and dressing-room challenges, including dropping captain Bruno Fernandes after the midfielder reportedly criticised his tactical approach following a 4-1 defeat to Champions League newcomers Como.

Defender Lisandro Martinez also publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the club’s hierarchy over what he considered a lack of quality recruitment.

Meanwhile, Pochettino is increasingly being linked with the vacant managerial position at Old Trafford.

The Argentine has considerable experience in English football, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. He also had a spell in charge of French giants Paris Saint-Germain.

Although Pochettino signed a contract extension with the United States national team just three months ago, committing his future to the country until the 2030 World Cup, reports indicate that negotiations with Manchester United have progressed.

Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that United have “reached a verbal agreement in principle” with the Argentine to become the club’s next head coach.

Pochettino has been linked with the Manchester United job on several occasions in the past, but his potential appointment would present a major challenge as the club seeks to restore its former status in English football.

United have struggled to replicate the success they enjoyed under legendary former manager Alex Ferguson, who retired 13 years ago. The club have yet to win another Premier League title since his departure.

Once the dominant force in English football, Manchester United have since been overtaken by rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.

The club’s next fixture is a high-profile encounter against arch-rivals Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.

Events News November 11, 2026 High Expectations As South South States in Abuja Plan Massive Cultural Festival December 6

Abuja is about to go agog with the Abuja South South Festival 2026, a socio-cultural gathering of the people of the South South geopolitical region of Nigeria residing in the nation’s capital.

The organiser of the fest, which aims to bring together the indigenes and residents of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers, has announced plans to host a colourful cultural festival on December 6, 2026, at Old Parade Ground, Garki, by 1:00 pm prompt, as part of activities to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage and ursher everyone into the holidays and yuletide with love.

The event, tagged Abuja South South Fest 2026, is an inaugural annual cultural and social festival designed to showcase the diverse traditions, music, dance, fashion, varied cuisines and cultural identity of the six South South states in the Federal Capital Territory.

IYERE, Sylvester Oshogwe popular known as DREAMZ, founder of Dreamsville Entertainment & Events World and the lead organiser, has said the festival is expected to bring together members of the South South community, cultural enthusiasts, business owners, entertainers and other residents of Abuja for a memorable celebration of the region’s heritage.

The programme will also feature keynote addresses on why the South South is pivotal to the growth and economic advancement of the nation at large, alongside a special edition of the Africa Development and Empowerment Merit Awards (ADEMA), with prominent personalities mostly of South South extraction expected to be recognised for their contributions to society.

Notable entertainers are also expected to perform, adding glamour and excitement to the celebration.

Beyond its cultural significance, Abuja South South Fest 2026 is expected to provide an avenue for networking, business promotion and social interaction among participants, while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and vendors to showcase their products and services to a wider audience.

Organisers have introduced different categories of tickets to accommodate individuals, families, groups and corporate participants. The categories include Regular tickets at ₦5,000, VIP tickets at ₦20,000, Group of Four tickets at ₦100,000, Premium Family Table of 10 at ₦500,000, Sponsorship Tables at ₦1 million and Exclusive Tables for ₦2 Million. Bookings are also open to vendors and exhibitors interested in securing spaces to display and market their products and services during the festival.

With its blend of cultural exhibition, entertainment, awards and business opportunities, Abuja South South Fest 2026 is expected to offer a unique platform for the South South residents in Abuja to celebrate its roots, strengthen bonds and promote the cultural richness of the region, while fostering unity in diversity.

News November 11, 2026 Mele Kyari defends NNPCL books before senate over N210tn audit query

The former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has dismissed allegations of ₦210 trillion in unaccounted funds raised by the Senate, insisting that no money was lost under his watch.

Kyari said the allegations relating to the company’s financial records between 2017 and 2023 were based on misconstrued entries and accounting issues.

He spoke on Tuesday when he appeared before the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, which is investigating queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation over NNPCL’s financial records during the period.

Explaining the issues, Kyari said the company had made efforts to implement decisions of the National Assembly, resulting in sustained investments and the development of the downstream sector for the benefit of the country.

“I am very proud that we have served this company in the best way possible. I remain loyal to this country and have done nothing deliberately wrong,” he said.

On payments made to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Kyari explained that they were for registration purposes, describing the discrepancies as entry issues. He also said the ₦2.9 billion in question represented statutory payments.

Addressing the allegation that ₦5 billion was spent on renaming the NNPCL, the former GMD said the company’s name change was effected by the National Assembly, insisting that no money was paid for the exercise.

Kyari subsequently presented his report to the committee.

In his response, the committee chairman said 23 issues had been raised before the panel, with only one or two relating to the former NNPCL chief.

He said the report would be circulated among committee members for examination, adding that the panel could invite those concerned, as well as the Auditor-General of the Federation, for further clarification if necessary.

“We accept your apologies for not appearing at the previous sittings, and we will look at the figures,” the chairman said.

Kyari was subsequently discharged by the committee pending the conclusion of its investigation.

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts began investigating the disputed figures in June 2025 after discrepancies were identified in NNPCL’s audited financial statements covering 2017 to 2023.

The figures comprise ₦103 trillion recorded as accrued expenses and ₦107 trillion listed as sundry receivables. The committee has repeatedly rejected the explanations provided by the company, insisting that the entries must be properly accounted for.

In March 2026, the panel summoned Kyari and other former officials to explain the figures. It later ordered Kyari’s arrest in June after he failed to appear before it. However, former NNPCL officials have denied that the money went missing, arguing that the ₦210 trillion figure arose from a misinterpretation of the company’s financial records.

News November 11, 2026 FG flags off construction of Kogi int’l airport

President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the construction of the Kogi International Cargo Airport in Zariagi, Adavi Local Government Area of the state, describing it as a major step towards attracting global investment and boosting economic growth.

Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, performed the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday and commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his commitment to infrastructure development.

Keyamo said the project would place Zariagi and Kogi State on the global aviation map, adding that the airport would enhance the state’s economic relevance.

He dismissed criticisms of the project, arguing that infrastructure should be provided to attract businesses rather than waiting for investors to arrive before developing the necessary facilities.

According to him, the airport is expected to generate between 2,000 and 3,000 direct and indirect jobs for residents.

Earlier, Ododo described the project as a milestone in the state’s economic transformation, saying it would strengthen Kogi’s position as a hub for commerce, transportation, logistics and investment.

He said the airport would create opportunities in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, particularly by improving farmers’ access to national and international markets.

The Commissioner for Works, Momoh Salami Ozigi, said the airport was part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy beyond its traditional dependence on the civil service.

He said the first phase would include a 3,600-metre runway, taxiways, aircraft parking apron, drainage systems, perimeter fencing and access roads.

According to him, the runway will meet International Civil Aviation Organisation standards and accommodate wide-body aircraft, including Boeing 747s.

The Managing Director of CCECC, Henry Shuo, whose company is handling the project, pledged to deploy its technical expertise to ensure successful completion.

News Politics November 11, 2026 APC Rally: Tinubu vows to defeat insecurity if re-elected in 2027

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity through sustained reforms, improved salaries and better welfare for security personnel.

Tinubu gave the assurance on Tuesday at Dutse Township Stadium, Jigawa, while addressing party supporters during the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally.

This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday.

The President said his administration was strengthening the armed forces and police to protect lives and property across the country.

“I promise you, we are working hard to ensure that Nigeria is safe and our forces are well taken care of, regardless of where they come from.

“We will conquer insecurity. We’ve been through many wars. We will defeat our enemies. Enemies of unity, enemies of stability. Enemies of hope.

“We’re strengthening the police; we’re strengthening the armed forces. We are paying better salaries today,” Tinubu said.

He presented the APC campaign manifesto, ‘From Reforms to Prosperity,’ outlining his administration’s achievements and plans in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and security.

He said the manifesto provided a blueprint for consolidating economic reforms, expanding opportunities and delivering shared prosperity.

Tinubu pledged to complete ongoing programmes and projects, saying his administration’s policies were already yielding results across several sectors.

The President defended the removal of the fuel subsidy, describing it as wasteful and accusing political opponents advocating its restoration of misleading Nigerians.

He said subsidy savings had enabled the government to execute development projects across the country’s geopolitical zones.

“You have seen what we are doing. Across the country, no region is left behind. Those who think they should bring the subsidy back are liars.

“How will they pay for those commitments? How will you repair the roads? How will you maintain them? How will you function?” he queried.

Tinubu also pledged further support for small-scale farmers through financing, mechanisation and irrigation.

“We will reward small-scale farmers. Interest-free loans for farmers are coming. Prosperity is coming. Food security will happen,” he said.

Thanking the people of Jigawa for their loyalty and support, the President urged them to participate actively in the forthcoming general elections and vote for APC candidates at all levels.

Before the rally, Tinubu inaugurated the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Multi-Purpose Skills Acquisition Centre and the Renewed Hope Technical Services Centre.

He also virtually inaugurated the three-kilometre dualised Old Police Station–Palace Road in Dutse.

The President further commissioned 400 tractors and other agricultural equipment procured by the state government to promote mechanised farming and strengthen food security.

In his welcome address, Gov. Umar Namadi commended Tinubu’s development initiatives in Jigawa and other parts of Northern Nigeria.

He said the Greater Hadejia Water Project was 60 per cent complete and highlighted the Katsina–Maradi rail line and federal interventions in education, agriculture and social welfare.

Namadi thanked the President for approving the establishment of Federal Colleges of Education in Dutse and Hadejia.

He particularly lauded Tinubu for fulfilling his 2023 campaign promise to the late Emir of Dutse, Dr Nuhu Muhammad Sunusi, to address acute water shortages in Dutse.

The governor also commended the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), saying thousands of Jigawa students had benefited.

He said the Conditional Cash Transfer programme had also brought relief to several indigent families in the state.

Namadi, however, appealed for federal intervention in ecological challenges affecting Dutse and Hadejia, describing them as beyond the state government’s capacity.

Also speaking, Vice-President Kashim Shettima reminded the people of Jigawa of Tinubu’s commitment to Northern Nigeria’s welfare and development.

He urged them to sustain their support for the administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Shettima recalled Tinubu’s political support for the late President Muhammadu Buhari, which he said contributed to Buhari’s victories in the 2015 and 2019 presidential elections.

He also recalled Tinubu’s support for former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and Nuhu Ribadu during their respective presidential quests.

The vice-president urged the people to reciprocate the support by voting for the APC in 2027.

The Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, Sen. Abdulaziz Yari, reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to quality leadership, economic consolidation and national prosperity.

Yari challenged opposition parties to present better socio-economic policies rather than resort to divisive politics.

Speaking on behalf of the Progressive Governors Forum, Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State urged Nigerians to support Tinubu, describing him as a focused leader whose policies had helped steer the country away from the precipice.

The Deputy Director-General of the APC Presidential Campaign Council and Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe, alongside the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Masari, also commended Tinubu’s leadership.

They urged party supporters to vote for the President and other APC candidates to enable the party to implement its manifesto.

Dignitaries at the rally included Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, APC governors, ministers and other political leaders. (NAN)