The Nigerian Fact-Checkers' Coalition recently monitored a debate among Lagos gubernatorial candidates, where they discussed issues affecting the state's economy and security. The debate, held on November 13, 2026, was organized by The Business Day and the private sector. Representatives from various political parties, including Obafemi Hamzat, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and Adeyemi Doherty, among others, participated in the session. The coalition identified and investigated claims made during the debate to verify their accuracy.
One claim verified by the coalition was that Lagos State has the highest number of registered voters in Nigeria. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Lagos indeed has the highest number of registered voters, with 7,488,633 voters as of October 2026. Kano State follows with 6,570,276 registered voters, while Kaduna State has 4,662,640. The coalition found this claim to be true, citing sources such as BBC, TheCable, and Daily Trust.
Another claim verified by the coalition was that Lagos State generates a significant amount of waste daily. Zebulon Agomuo, Editor of BusinessDay Sunday, claimed that Lagos generates between 13,000 and 14,000 tonnes of waste daily. The Lagos State Government's website, citing the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed that this claim is true. The government has been working with Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators to effectively manage the large volume of waste.
The debate provided a platform for the candidates to discuss their blueprints for the state's system, including the economy and security. The participants included Obafemi Hamzat from the All Progressives Congress, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour from the African Democratic Congress, and Adeyemi Doherty from the Peoples Democratic Party, among others. The discussion aimed to inform the public about the candidates' plans and visions for the state.
The Nigerian Fact-Checkers' Coalition plays a crucial role in verifying claims made by public figures and ensuring the accuracy of information. By monitoring debates and investigating claims, the coalition helps to promote informed decision-making and accountability. The coalition's work is particularly important in the lead-up to elections, when accurate information is essential for voters.
The coalition's findings on the claims made during the debate demonstrate the importance of fact-checking in the electoral process. By verifying claims and providing accurate information, the coalition helps to prevent the spread of misinformation and promotes a more informed public discourse. The coalition's work is a valuable resource for voters, policymakers, and the general public.
The NFC Live Fact-check initiative is part of the coalition's efforts to promote fact-checking and accountability in Nigeria. By working with media organizations and civil society groups, the coalition aims to promote a culture of fact-checking and critical thinking in the country. The initiative also provides a platform for citizens to submit claims for verification and engage with the fact-checking process.
Key points
- The Nigerian Fact-Checkers' Coalition verified claims made by Lagos gubernatorial candidates during a debate, finding that Lagos has the highest number of registered voters in Nigeria and generates 13,000 to 14,000 tonnes of waste daily.
