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Police arrest housewife for slitting husband’s throat

The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a 23-year-old housewife, Sadiya Lawal, for allegedly attempting to kill her husband by slitting his throat while he was asleep in Katsina metropolis.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Monday.

Sadiq said the command arrested a housewife in connection with an attempted murder in Katsina metropolis.

He said the victim, identified as Jamilu Ibrahim, reported at the Central Market Police Division at about 9 a.m. on Monday that his wife allegedly attacked him with a knife while he was asleep earlier the same day.

According to the police, Ibrahim sustained a deep cut to the neck and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.

The police said officers visited the scene, arrested the suspect, and recovered the knife allegedly used in the attack.

The suspect remains in custody and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded.

Sadiq said, “Today, June 29, 2026, at about 9:00 AM, one Jamilu Ibrahim, m, reported at the Central Market Division, Katsina, that on the same date at about 5:30 am, while he was asleep, his wife, one Sadiya Lawal, f, age 23, attacked him with a knife in an attempt to slit his throat. The victim sustained a deep cut injury to the neck.

“Following the report, the victim was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention, where he is currently responding to treatment.

“The scene was visited, the suspect arrested, and the sharp knife suspected to be used in the commission of the offense. The suspect is in custody under investigation and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.”

The command also said its operatives foiled a bandits’ attack in Dandume Local Government Area, recovering two motorcycles and a machete after a gun battle with the fleeing suspects.

Sadiq said the fleeing suspects abandoned two operational motorcycles and a machete, which were recovered by the operatives, while efforts were ongoing to arrest them.

According to the statement, the attempted bandits’ attack occurred on June 28, 2026, when a distress call was received at the Dandume Police Division reporting that a large group of armed bandits riding motorcycles had been sighted along the Kadisau-Sheme Road in Dandume LGA.

The spokesperson said the Divisional Police Officer immediately mobilised operatives of the Violent Crimes Response Unit and the Katsina State Community Watch Corps to the area, where they engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel and forced them to flee.

“In sustained efforts against all forms of crime and criminality, the Katsina State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Aliyu Umar Fage, psc(+), mnips, has successfully foiled a bandit attack in Dandume LGA and arrested a housewife for attempted culpable homicide in a separate domestic incident in Katsina Metropolis.

“On June 28, 2026, at about 6:30 PM, a distress call was received at the Dandume Divisions that a large group of armed bandits riding on motorcycles was sighted along the Kadisau-Sheme Road, Dandume LGA. Upon receipt of the report, the DPO quickly mobilised operatives from the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) and the Katsina State Community Watch Corps (KSCWC) to the scene. The team engaged hoodlums in a gun duel. Due to superior firepower and tactics, the suspects were forced to retreat and flee the scene.

“The fleeing suspects abandoned two operational motorcycles and one machete at the scene, which were recovered as exhibits by the operatives. Efforts are currently ongoing with a view to arresting the suspects,” he said.

Reacting to the incidents, the state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Umar Fage, commended the officers involved in repelling the bandits and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

He also cautioned residents against domestic violence, urging families to resolve disputes through peaceful and lawful means.

“The command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. We also urge members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information that will aid the police in combating crime and criminality,” the commissioner said.

In May, the command foiled separate kidnapping and cattle-rustling operations in Kankara and Malumfashi Local Government Areas of the state.

The command also rescued 11 abducted passengers and recovering 25 stolen cows.

Gunmen kill two policemen, injure another in Rivers

Gunmen shot and killed two policemen while another officer sustained severe bullet wounds along the Obiri-Kwere axis of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Monday night.

It was gathered that the three policemen were attached to the Aluu Division in Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.

They were said to be on a routine stop-and-search operation at a security checkpoint along the Mbodo/Aluu axis of Obiri-Kwerre Road when the assailants opened fire at about 9 pm.

The gunmen immediately zoomed off in their vehicle after committing the act.

The incident came barely 24 hours after the Rivers State Police Command said it arrested a suspected high-profile criminal identified as Austine Emenike, who goes by the nickname “Oyibo,” and recovered one locally made pistol, four single-barrel guns, and five live cartridges.

The State Police spokesperson, in a statement on Monday, also said the arrested suspect, Emenike, is linked to a wider criminal network.

In the latest incident, a video circulating on social media shows the lifeless bodies of the officers still in their uniforms lying in pools of their own blood at the scene.

From the video seen by our correspondent, a voice from the background said the gunmen were robbing in the area before opening fire on the operatives and immediately took to their heels.

He stated, “You can see, it happened now. Armed robbers came here and robbed everybody. They killed these policemen. Look at their bodies.”

When contacted for her reaction yesterday, the spokesperson for the state police command, Blessing Agabe, confirmed the incident, saying that the investigation is ongoing.

Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, also said the state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, visited the scene yesterday morning alongside his management team for an on-the-spot assessment.

She stated, “Yes, I can confirm. Two of our men died, and the other one was injured and is receiving treatment in the Hospital.

“The Commissioner of Police, with other members of the command’s management team, visited the scene of the incident this morning to assess the situation, and the investigation is ongoing.”

Oghenemine: Dismissed police officers plead not guilty to extra-judicial killing

Prime suspect, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Usman Nuhu and four other police officers have pleaded not guilty to charges over the 26 April extra-judicial killing of 28-year-old Warri musician Oghenemine Ogidi, aka “OG Million,” in Effurun, Delta State.

The suspects, now dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, were arraigned yesterday before Justice M. Nduka of the Delta State High Court 4, Asaba.

Standing trial with ASP Nuhu, aka “Ogbegbe,” were ASPs Owoloko Daurou Pamo and Okoh Kelechi, as well as Inspectors Goodluck Kingsley and Omonigho Ahweyevu.

Nuhu is charged with one count of “Murder, punishable under Section 319 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C21, Vol. 1, Laws of Delta State of Nigeria, 2006.”

The other four defendants face “Negligent Acts Causing Harm, punishable under Section 344 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C21, Vol. 1, Laws of Delta State of Nigeria, 2006.”

Following their not-guilty pleas to the charges read to them, Justice Nduka adjourned the case to 14 July 2026 for the commencement of trial.

Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, who led the Prosecution, said: “The defendants have been arraigned and have taken their pleas, as they are entitled to do.

“They pleaded not guilty, but our case is very straightforward. Nobody has the right to make himself the accuser, the judge and the executioner.”

He described the incident at the centre of the trial as “abhorrent,” and assured the court of diligent and expeditious prosecution of the case.

“We are fully prepared for the trial. I assure the public that justice will be served,” Ohwovoriole said.

Counsel for two of the defendants, C. Promise, also assured the court of readiness for trial, saying: “They have taken their pleas and the matter has been adjourned to 14 July. We will return to court on that date for the trial.”

Ogidi was killed at the Effurun Main Motor Park, Uvwie Local Government Area, after he was caught trying to send a parcel containing a Beretta pistol and four rounds of ammunition to a receiver in Sapele.

Restrained with his hands tied behind his back, he was shot dead with an AK-47 by ASP Nuhu in public, a gory scene captured in a viral video.”

Govt’s borrowing not immoral – Finance Minister, Oyedele

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the borrowing policy of the Federal Government is not immoral, stating that debt should be viewed as a strategic financial tool for economic growth rather than a moral failing.

Oyedele stated this yesterday at the 2026 Annual Conference of the Capital Market Academics of Nigeria, (CMAN), advocating the establishment of a dedicated Commercial Dispute Resolution Tribunal to fast-track the resolution of business disputes and improve Nigeria’s investment climate.

He argued that public criticism of government borrowing often ignores the more critical issue of how borrowed funds are utilised.

The minister added that the key consideration is not the size of a country’s debt but whether borrowed funds are invested in productive ventures capable of generating returns that exceed the cost of borrowing.

“The Federal Government’s borrowing is not immoral.

In much of our public discourse, debt is spoken of as a moral failing rather than a financial instrument. “The relevant question is never simply how much debt. It is always debt for what, at what cost, against what return, and repaid on what terms,” he said. According to him, governments, businesses and individuals should embrace responsible borrowing when it is used to finance productive investments, warning that refusing to borrow under such circumstances amounts to a missed economic opportunity.

Deregistration crisis: NDC files appeal, moves to serve INEC

The Nigerian Democratic Congress(NDC), on Monday confirmed that it had filed a notice of appeal against the Federal High Court judgment that set aside its registration, assuring members and supporters that the party remained legally recognised and would soon serve the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with the court processes.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Osa Director, disclosed this in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, saying the party’s legal team successfully filed the appeal at the Court of Appeal in Lokoja, Kogi State.

“Yes, we succeeded in filing the appeal today. We are going to serve INEC very soon. Our legal team was in Lokoja, Kogi State, today,” he said.

Director dismissed reports suggesting that the party had been deregistered, insisting there was no cause for alarm.

“We are not in panic mode. Our candidates need not fear. The NDC is a registered party. This is still reflected on the portal of INEC,” he stated.

He also faulted media reports on the court judgment, arguing that the suit merely challenged the party’s logo and not its existence as a political party.

“The narrative in the media is not even right. The group only challenged the use of our logo in court. That does not mean we are deregistered.

“That is why we are thanking our members, supporters and Nigerians for their understanding and solidarity,” he added.

The appeal follows days of emergency strategy meetings involving the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi; his running mate, Dr Rabiu Kwankwaso; NDC National Leader, Seriake Dickson, members of the National Working Committee and other key stakeholders.

A senior party official had earlier told our correspondent, that the leadership held marathon meetings over the weekend to fine-tune its legal strategy before approaching the Court of Appeal.

The development comes after the Federal High Court in Lokoja set aside its earlier judgment directing INEC to register the NDC, a decision the party has described as a legal setback it is determined to overturn.

The party has maintained that the judgment does not amount to its deregistration and has reassured its candidates and supporters that it remains a legally recognised political platform pending the outcome of the appeal.

CVR phase 3: INEC registers 1.5m Nigerians in seven weeks

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said no fewer than 1,565,873 Nigerians have successfully completed their voter registration as of June 26.

This is at the conclusion of week seven in the Phase III of its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

According to statistics released by INEC yesterday in Abuja, the figure comprises 620,933 citizens who completed their online pre-registration and 944,940 who registered physically.

The commission, however, said that the statistics remained preliminary, pending a comprehensive data clean-up during the scheduled period for public claims and objections, which would be followed by the deployment of the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS).

The state-by-state breakdown reveals that Kano State recorded the highest voter turnout, accounting for 118,207 registrants, representing 7.55 per cent of the national total.

It was followed by Lagos State with 78,360 registrants, representing five per cent, and Delta with 76,395, representing 4.88 per cent.

INEC also said that the registration had been temporarily suspended in Ekiti and Osun due to the just-concluded governorship and upcoming governorship elections in strict compliance with Section 9 (6) of the Electoral Act 2022.

The gender distribution also reveals that female registrants accounted for 821,276, representing 52.45 per cent, while males accounted for 744,597, representing 47.55 per cent of the total registrants.

The distribution also shows that the youth demographic, ages 18 to 34, dominated the exercise, with 1,082,985 representing 69.16 per cent of all registrants, with the middle-aged individuals between 35 and 49 following with 331,376 at 21.16 per cent, while the elderly and seniors made up the remainder.

The occupational breakdown also shows that students formed the largest bloc of new registrants at 384,093, representing 24.53 per cent, followed by business owners at 333,539, representing 21.30 per cent, and those engaged in farming or fishing at 273,627, representing 17.47 per cent.

The statistics also disclosed that 18,919 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), were registered within the period.

INEC urged eligible citizens who were yet to register to utilise its online portal at https://cvr.inec.gov.ng or visit designated physical CVR registration centres nationwide to ensure their votes count in the upcoming elections.

Alleged Cybercrime: Court grants Sowore bail, orders two sureties, passport surrender

The Federal High Court in Abuja, yesterday, restored the bail it had earlier granted to activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.

Sowore is facing a two-count cybercrime charge filed against him by the Department of State Services (DSS), for calling President Bola Tinubu a “criminal” in a social media post.

Trial Justice Muhammed Umar, who had earlier granted the defendant bail on self-recognisance, on June 16 revoked the bail and issued a warrant for his arrest.

The order came after Sowore failed to appear before the court for the continuation of his trial, even though he wrote a letter explaining his absence and requesting a new date.

When proceedings resumed in the case on June 22, Justice Umar ordered the remand of the defendant in Kuje prison.

Dissatisfied with the actions the court took against him, Sowore, whose legal team had initially withdrawn from the case over alleged bias by the judge—secured a new lawyer, who promptly filed a motion to restore his bail and quash the arrest warrant.

When the case came up yesterday, Justice Umar held that he was minded to admit the defendant to bail.

However, the court listed some conditions that had to be met before he would be released from prison custody.

Aside from granting him bail to the tune of N200 million, the court held that the defendant must produce two sureties in like sum.

The court also ordered the defendant to surrender his international passport.

Sowore, in the application he anchored on Sections 35(4), 36(1), and 66 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, as well as Sections 169 and 352 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, insisted that the orders the court made against him were unjust and unwarranted.

The defendant had, on December 2, 2025, pleaded not guilty to the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/484/2025, filed against him by the Department of State Services (DSS).

The charges allege offences under Sections 24(1)(b) and 24(2)(a), (b), and (c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

The offending posts, made on August 25, 2025, were in response to President Tinubu’s claim, made in Brazil, that his administration had ended corruption in Nigeria.

Angered by the posts, the DSS demanded that X Inc. (formerly Twitter) and Meta Platforms Inc. ban Sowore’s accounts and remove the posts.

The security agency also wrote to Sowore, asking him to delete the posts from all platforms.

Non-compliance with the request led to the charges.

The prosecution claims the defamatory posts were intended to cause a breakdown of law and order and to tarnish the president’s reputation.

Exhibits include printouts of the posts and the DSS letters.

X Inc. and Meta were initially co-defendants but were delisted in the amended charge.

Third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa arrives in Lagos

The third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Lagos following weeks of anti-immigration protests and xenophobic tensions in the country.

The evacuees arrived aboard an Air Peace aircraft, which landed at the cargo terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, at about 10:54 a.m. yesterday.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the number is in addition to 66 others that arrived via South African Airways and facilitated by a good-spirited Nigerian on June 24.

“The batch of 269 evacuees, escorted by officials of the Nigerian mission in South Africa, were officially received at the airport by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by the Director, African Affairs Department, Amb. Haruna Ali-Gombe.

“He conveyed the heartfelt greetings and assurances of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the returning nationals, reaffirming the Federal Government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety of Nigerian nationals living outside the country.

“With the June 30 deadline on undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa, the federal government wishes to reiterate the fact that the evacuation process is still on course,” Ebienfa said.

It was reportedthat the first batch – 258 Nigerians – was received on June 11, bringing the total number, as at June 30, to 593.

Ebienfa added that more flights were being expected in the country in the next few days to evacuate all Nigerians already screened and cleared to voluntarily return home.

According to him, the federal government will continue to engage South African authorities at the highest level to ensure protection of Nigerian nationals living in the country.

INEC restores NDC nomination portal access, says Dickson

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has restored the Nigeria Democratic Congress’ (NDC), access to its candidate nomination portal, allowing the party to upload the names of its National Leader, Senator Seriake Dickson and presidential candidate, Peter Obi, despite the ongoing legal battle over the party’s status.
Dickson disclosed the development in a post on his X account yesterday.
He described it as a positive step after the party filed a notice of appeal and an application for stay of execution against last week’s judgment of the Federal High Court in Lokoja.
He said the appeal and accompanying applications had been served on the electoral commission, with a covering letter urging it to act in accordance with the law.
According to him, the NDC remains a duly registered political party and has validly conducted its primaries under INEC’s supervision.
“Today, the NDC has filed an appeal against the ruling as well as a stay of execution/injunction, which has been served with a covering letter to the INEC chairman and his team to do what is right according to law and what is legally sensible.
“The Nigeria Democratic Congress has come to stay and remains a duly registered party in Nigeria which has participated in all the political processes so far.
“Nomination processes have already been concluded and, in the eyes of the law, candidates have already emerged from the party for all offices across the country in primaries observed, monitored and recorded by INEC.
“What is left is the administrative process of submitting the names to INEC, and we have been granted access to the portal to upload our qualified candidates,” he said.
Dickson disclosed that his name and that of the party’s presidential candidate had already been uploaded to the commission’s portal.
“My name and that of the presidential candidate have been uploaded to the INEC portal, while that of the vice presidential candidate will be done tomorrow upon completion of the deposition. The process is also ongoing for other candidates,” he stated. The Senator urged party members not to panic, noting that there was still sufficient time to complete the nomination process within INEC’s timetable.
“In accordance with the INEC timetable, which we have religiously abided by, we have between now and the 11th of next month to upload all National Assembly candidates, while those of governors and State Houses of Assembly will end on the 17th of July.
“So there is enough time for all candidates’ names to be submitted to INEC and there is no reason for anyone to panic,” he added.
The former Bayelsa State governor also appealed to unsuccessful aspirants to support the party, saying reconciliation efforts had commenced.
“The reconciliation processes have started and we expect them to reach everyone. We assure them that all those who expressed interest will be carried along in the party’s campaigns, committees and structures because they constitute the grassroots strength and the backbone of our party,” he said.
Dickson thanked INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, for what he described as the commission’s professionalism and urged the judiciary to determine the appeal in accordance with the law. “We thank INEC, led by Professor Joash Amupitan, for their professionalism so far, and we expect them to continue on this path.
“Having filed and served our appeal and the accompanying applications, the ball is now in the court of the judiciary, and we expect the judiciary to do what is right under the law,” he said. The development comes days after the NDC filed an appeal challenging the Federal High Court judgment that sparked uncertainty over the party’s registration, insisting the judgment neither dissolved nor deregistered the party.
The opposition party has maintained that it remains legally recognised pending the determination of its appeal.

Wabara, Ben Obi mobilise diaspora support for free, fair 2027 polls in US

Former Senate President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Adolphus Wabara, and former Action Congress (AC), vice-presidential candidate, Senator Ben Obi, have begun high-level consultations with Nigerians in the United States as part of efforts to mobilise support for free, fair and credible elections in 2027.

The consultations, which cut across party lines, are aimed at rallying progressive Nigerians at home and abroad to defend the country’s democratic institutions, preserve political pluralism and resist any attempt to undermine Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

Speaking in a telephone interview with Our correspondent, Wabara said the meetings with Nigerians in the diaspora and some officials focused on growing concerns over the state of the nation’s democracy, the shrinking democratic space and the need for patriotic forces to unite in defence of constitutional governance.

According to him, participants expressed concern over what they described as increasing pressure on opposition parties, the erosion of public confidence in the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the danger of weakening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Wabara described the consultations as “very fruitful,” saying they centred on building a broad national consensus on how to restore confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The common objective of these consultations is to rescue Nigeria from state capture, free up the democratic space and ensure that the will of the people, not the will of a few powerful individuals, prevails in 2027,” he said.

The former Senate President warned that Nigeria’s democracy was facing one of its most critical moments since the return to civil rule, likening its condition to a patient in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

“Our democracy is currently in the ICU. Unless urgent and sincere efforts are made to strengthen our democratic institutions and guarantee credible elections, the future of our nation could be endangered,” Wabara said.

“What we have in Nigeria today is a distorted version of democracy. This is not the democracy our founding fathers fought and made enormous sacrifices to bequeath to us. We cannot afford to stand by and watch a few greedy political merchants hold the destiny of over 200 million Nigerians by the jugular.

“It is time for all patriotic and progressive Nigerians to rise above partisan interests and unite to defend democracy, protect our constitutional order and ensure that the will of the people prevails through free, fair and credible elections in 2027.”

He called on opposition parties, civil society organisations, professional groups, youth and women organisations, and other patriotic Nigerians to place national interest above partisan considerations and forge a united front in defence of democracy.

“This is not the time for political divisions or narrow party interests. Every patriotic Nigerian who believes in democracy must come together to protect our constitutional order and ensure that the 2027 elections are free, fair, transparent and acceptable to the Nigerian people,” he said.

Wabara also urged eligible Nigerians yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise before the July 10 deadline, stressing that active citizen participation remained the strongest safeguard against electoral manipulation.

“Democracy belongs to the people. This is not a time to be spectators. Every eligible Nigerian must register, collect a voter’s card and be prepared to participate actively in determining the future of our country,” he added.

Explaining the purpose of his visit, Wabara said: “I visited Senator Ben Obi in New Jersey on Sunday. We seized the opportunity to deliberate extensively on the political situation in Nigeria, the imperative of defending democracy and the way forward. We also met with some officials and concerned Nigerians.”

He noted that the US consultations followed similar high-level engagements he held in London during a recent visit to former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, who was recuperating after surgery.

According to Wabara, the London meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss the state of Nigeria’s democracy, the future of the opposition and the need to build a broad coalition to safeguard democratic governance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

State police won’t solve insecurity, could be weaponised against opposition — Galadima

A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Buba Galadima, has cautioned against the proposed creation of state police, arguing that the initiative would neither address Nigeria’s security challenges nor strengthen democracy.

Galadima, who spoke during an interview on the ARISE News Morning Show, said the proposed policing structure could instead be used by political officeholders to intimidate opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election.

He was reacting to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, which was recently passed by the National Assembly and transmitted to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for consideration as part of the constitutional amendment process.

Questioning the effectiveness of state police in tackling insecurity, Galadima argued that creating another policing structure would not automatically improve security.

“If the Nigerian Police and the Nigerian military cannot solve security situations in Nigeria, I wonder how the state police would be able to do that,” he said.

The NDC chieftain alleged that the renewed push for state police was driven more by political considerations than security concerns.

“All that we know is that the president and the governors are looking for state police before the elections so that they can use them as political thugs to attack the opposition, disrupt the election and kill democracy,” he said.

Galadima also drew parallels with the defunct Native Authority Police, which operated in parts of Nigeria before the country’s policing system was centralised.

Recalling his experience, he alleged that the force was frequently used to suppress political opponents before elections.

“I was old enough to witness what happened during the Native Authority Police era. When elections approached, three months before the election, the Native Authority Police would gather all the opposition elements within their territorial jurisdiction and lock them up.

“Some of them, they would just say, ‘Oh, you have abused the Emir,’ or ‘You have abused the chief,’ or ‘You have abused the judge,’ or that you were wearing shoes while your village head was seated on a chair. Then they would clamp all of them into detention,” he said.

According to him, the alleged abuse of the Native Authority Police contributed to the migration of many people from parts of Northern Nigeria.

Galadima further warned that state police could deepen ethnic and religious divisions if recruitment was dominated by particular groups within individual states.

“The state police could even be used to destroy the unity of this country because if there are certain states where only one tribe or only one religion constitutes the state police, people from other parts of the country will have no liberty to live and do their businesses, as guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

He maintained that the proposed arrangement would create more challenges than solutions.

“For me, it will create more problems, more division, and more suspicion,” he added.

It’s not only Akara’: Remi Tinubu clarifies Petty traders scheme

… Announces N100m for 2,000 Jigawa beneficiaries

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has clarified that the Federal Government’s economic empowerment drive covers more than akara sellers, saying tomato, pepper, vegetable, roasted plantain and other petty traders are also targeted.

Mrs Tinubu spoke on Monday in Jigawa State while inaugurating the newly completed Abubakar Maje Haruna Hall at the Emir of Hadejia’s Palace.

A recording of the event was later aired by TVC News.

Her clarification comes after an earlier remark referencing akara, roasted corn and kuli-kuli businesses drew criticism online, with some Nigerians arguing it downplayed the country’s economic challenges.

Responding to the backlash, the First Lady said the Federal Government had already released N100 million to Jigawa State to support 2,000 small-scale traders.

“Because of the atmosphere and everything that is going on, I’ve told Her Excellency that we have already donated about N100 million for the empowerment of 2,000 petty traders,” she said.

“I know people have been saying I mentioned only akara. It is not only akara. We also have tomato sellers, boole sellers, those selling pepper and vegetables in our markets.

We will continue to empower them and strengthen their businesses so their trades can become sustainable. That is exactly what we are doing.”

According to her, each of the 2,000 identified women in small businesses will receive N50,000 to recapitalise and expand their enterprises. “The N100 million has already been provided,” she added.

Mrs Tinubu said criticism would not derail the intervention. “I know the people directly affected appreciate what we are doing.

We are not intimidated by inaccurate reports. We will continue moving forward to ensure our people are properly supported and cared for,” she said.

The First Lady also urged young Nigerians to look beyond crude oil, noting the country’s agricultural and natural resource potential.

She cited a visit to an orange orchard in Benue as an example of untapped opportunities.

“Nigeria is truly blessed. As I travel across the country, I pray our young people will recognise the enormous resources we have.

We have concentrated so much on oil, yet there are countless other opportunities waiting to be explored,” she said.

 

NSCDC warns vandals, moves against illegal Guard Companies in FCT

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has declared that Abuja is no longer a safe haven for vandals, warning that anyone caught destroying public infrastructure will face the full weight of the law.

The Command also intensified its crackdown on illegal Private Guard Companies (PGCs), warning that operators without the requisite licences and approvals would be sanctioned in line with the law.

The FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, gave the warning while calling on residents to support the Corps’ ongoing campaign against vandalism by providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

Odumosu, in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, DSC Monica Ojobi, said the federal government’s ongoing infrastructural development across the FCT represents the dividends of democracy and must be protected by every resident, stressing that safeguarding critical national assets should not be left to security agencies alone.

“Security operations are intelligence-driven. We rely heavily on credible information from members of the public. Many people turn a blind eye whenever acts of vandalism are committed around them. That is wrong. Residents have a responsibility to promptly report such crimes through our emergency hotlines,” he said.

According to the Commandant, vandalism remains a major threat to national development, adding that the NSCDC, as the lead agency responsible for protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), is fully committed to responding swiftly to credible intelligence.

Odumosu warned that “We cannot allow criminal elements to sabotage government efforts aimed at improving the welfare of residents. The FCT is no longer a safe haven for vandals. Anyone involved in vandalising public infrastructure should either desist or be prepared to face the consequences of the law.”

He disclosed that the Command has intensified 24-hour surveillance across the Federal Capital Territory to protect public facilities, assuring that all suspects arrested for vandalism would be prosecuted.

The commandant also turned attention to operators of Private Guard Companies (PGCs), urging them to complement the Corps’ efforts by supplying credible intelligence capable of preventing attacks on critical infrastructure.

He warned that the command would soon begin strict enforcement against private security firms operating with fake, invalid or expired licences.

Expressing concern over the non-compliance of some operators with existing regulations, Odumosu said the Command would no longer tolerate violations.

“Any private security company operating in the FCT without a valid licence is doing so at its own risk because our enforcement team will soon catch up with them,” he said.

He revealed that surveillance of private guard companies is ongoing across the territory, adding that the Command is compiling a list of defaulting firms ahead of full-scale enforcement.

Odumosu advised operators with expired licences or fake documents to immediately regularise their status with the FCT Command or risk arrest and the closure of their companies.

The NSCDC also appealed to residents to report cases of vandalism through its dedicated emergency lines:

“As the lead agency responsible for protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), we remain committed and ready to respond swiftly following credible information from you.

“We cannot allow criminal elements to sabotage the efforts of the government aimed at bettering the generalty of the people of the FCT. The statement added.

FG to scrap JSS, SSS separation policy after 20m pupils drop out

The Federal Government will phase out the policy separating Junior Secondary Schools (JSS) from Senior Secondary Schools (SSS) after data showed more than 20 million pupils dropped out before reaching the senior secondary level.

Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa, announced the decision yesterday in Abuja at the inauguration of the UBEC Ministerial Implementation and Monitoring Committee.

Alausa said the “disarticulation policy,” which required JSS and SSS to operate separately with different principals and facilities, has not met its objectives.

“We have 20 million dropouts from primary school to JSS. Where are those students? We also found we have 80,000 public primary schools, and only about 15,000 junior secondary schools. That’s a one to eight ratio,” he said.

The minister said the imbalance has caused overcrowding in JSS facilities and left many senior secondary schools underutilised.

He cited Kaduna and other northern states as examples.

“This disarticulation policy has failed. We will phase it out. We can’t be creating positions because we want to create a director level for people while we harm our education system. It’s about doing what is best for every Nigerian child.”

He added that the proposal to abolish the policy will be tabled at the next meeting of the National Council on Education.

The policy shift is aimed at expanding access and improving learning outcomes, Alausa said. He acknowledged past failures in addressing transition rates but stated: “This government will not fail. We are fixing it.”

At the same event, Alausa inaugurated a committee chaired by Prof. Rashid Aderinoye to oversee UBEC-funded Smart Schools, Bilingual Schools and Alternative Schools.

The committee is mandated to ensure the projects are completed, handed over to states and opened for learning.

UBEC has invested in hundreds of such schools nationwide.

The minister said many remain unfinished or have not admitted learners, describing it as a waste of public resources.

Falana urges ECOWAS to establish A-Court over conflicting judgments

Human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN, has called on the Economic Community of West African States, (ECOWAS), to establish an appellate division for the ECOWAS Court of Justice, citing conflicting judgments and the absence of a review mechanism.

In a letter dated June 29, 2026, to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Touray, Falana argued that the regional court’s status as a court of first and last resort has raised concerns about fairness and consistency in its decisions.

“The judgments of the ECOWAS Court are final and binding on all member states. It is a court of first and last resort as its judgments are not subject to appeal,” he said.

Falana noted that Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had also expressed concern over the lack of an appellate mechanism, saying, “The absence of a separate appellate mechanism limits access to justice, especially in cases where errors of law or procedure may have occurred.”

According to Falana, growing calls for an appeal chamber have been driven by what he described as inconsistent decisions by the court.

He cited cases involving public interest litigation, limitation periods for human rights claims, interpretation of Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act, and the removal of judicial officers.

He noted that while the court had previously allowed civil society organisations to institute human rights actions on behalf of citizens, it later ruled in a case involving the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, (SERAP), that NGOs must obtain authorization from victims or their relatives before filing such claims.

Falana also pointed to conflicting rulings on whether time limits apply to human rights cases and differing decisions on provisions of Nigeria’s Cybercrimes Act.

On judicial discipline matters, he said the court declined to review proceedings leading to the removal of Ghana’s Chief Justice on the ground that it could not exercise appellate jurisdiction over domestic processes, but adopted a different approach in similar cases involving Nigeria and The Gambia.

“The campaign for an appellate division of the Court has increased as a result of the inconsistencies that have characterized several decisions of the Court,” Falana stated.

He recalled that the ECOWAS Council of Ministers had approved the establishment of an appellate division as far back as June 2005 and directed the ECOWAS Commission to undertake feasibility studies.

“Your Excellency will agree with us that the ECOWAS Court can no longer continue to operate as a one-chamber court,” he said.

Urging immediate action, Falana added: “Having regard to the urgent need to enhance the capacity of the Judges and restore the confidence of the member states of the ECOWAS and community citizens in the Court, the appellate division should be established without any further delay.”

He maintained that creating an appeal chamber would strengthen judicial accountability, improve consistency in the court’s decisions and boost confidence in the regional justice system.

Court clears ADA for registration, orders INEC to release access code to leadership

A Federal High Court in Abuja has cleared the coast for the registration of the All Democratic Alliance, ADA, by ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to generate and subsequently release Access Code for the party’s registration to the Chief Akin Rickett-led leadership of the ADA.

Justice Peter Lifu in a judgment yesterday gave INEC 72 hours within which the access code must be released to the Protem Secretary of the ADA.

Justice Lifu in the judgement faulted the electoral body for releasing the access code to one Dr Umar Ardo, who was not a recognized Protem Secretary of the political association and consequently declared the action of INEC as illegal, wrongful, null and void.

The court further ordered INEC to open its portal for a period of one week to enable the plaintiff upload necessary documents, including membership digital register into INEC’s custody as required by law.

The plaintiff through his counsel, Stephen Atabo, had dragged the electoral body and Ardo before the court, seeking declarations among others that INEC has not issued an access code to the plaintiff for the purpose of uploading their information and documents for the registration of their political association, the All Democratic Alliance as a political party, in compliance with extant laws.

They also sought another declaration that INEC was in violation of the extant laws when it issued the access code to the second defendant, Umar Ardo, who is neither the Protem National Chairman or the secretary of the association, instead of the plaintiff, who is the protem national chairman.

Plaintiff further pleaded with the court to declare that the information uploaded into INEC’s portal by a wrongful person, or Umar Ardo on behalf of ADA, was in violation of the extant laws, as it was at variance with the information in the plaintiff’s letter of intent and should therefore be declared illegal, unlawful, null and void and of no effect.

Besides, the plaintiff asked for an order of the court against INEC directing it to release access code to the plaintiff for the purpose of uploading their information and documents for the registration of their association as a political party.

Plaintiff also asked for an order directing INEC to register their political association as a political party and as well issue a certificate of registration to the plaintiff.

Similarly, an order of the court directing INEC to extend the deadlines of May 10, 2026 and May 30, 2026, for the submission of their digital register of members and submission of candidates respectively to the electoral body.

After reviewing the submissions of counsel to parties involved in the legal battle, Justice Lifu agreed that Umar Ardo was neither the national protem chairman nor secretary of the political association and therefore nullified all the steps, and actions taken on behalf of the ADA.

Although, the plaintiff requested for 96 hours for INEC to generate access code to him, Justice Lifu however granted only 72 hours.

Pastor Adeboye defends Tinubu, says he has done his bit

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has defended President Bola Tinubu against criticism over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, saying the president has fulfilled his responsibility by giving directives to the military.

Adeboye made the remarks while speaking at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala organised by the Save Nigeria Group in Washington on June 23.

The cleric said those blaming Tinubu for the country’s security challenges were unfair in their assessment of the president’s role as commander-in-chief.

“I need to make this one clear: I don’t support those who are accusing the president of not doing enough. When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit. You don’t expect him to go and put on khaki and fight,” Adeboye said. Mike Bamiloye Drawing a comparison with the United States, he said commanders-in-chief are expected to issue directives rather than personally participate in military operations.  “When my friend Trump gives instructions to go and bomb anywhere, he doesn’t leave the White House. He has done his bit. ‘I hereby command, bomb Iran,’ and then he goes to his bedroom and sleeps. The rest is left to the supporters,” he added. While defending Tinubu, the respected preacher admitted that the country’s security situation has deteriorated, with kidnappings and terrorist activities no longer limited to northern Nigeria.  “Things have gone far, far worse than before the bomb came,” he said.  “The terrorism, kidnapping and so on that were in the North are now even at my doorstep. They have come all the way down to the South. And, of course, the sponsors—they are all known, and they are still moving about freely.” Adeboye disclosed that he had discussed the security situation with President Tinubu and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urging the president to give the nation’s security chiefs a 90-day ultimatum to eliminate terrorism or resign.

“I told him to tell all the military boys, all the army, navy and air force: ‘You have 90 days. Wipe out this rubbish or resign.’ And then take care of the sponsors,” he said.

The cleric described the sponsors of terrorism as influential politicians and wealthy businessmen, insisting that tackling them was key to ending the violence.

“You know them. Some of them are businessmen. Some of them are politicians. Go after them. Because if you do not deal with those who are supplying these people with arms and ammunition… the problem will continue,” he said.

Adeboye also called on the United States and other countries to support Nigeria’s efforts in the fight against terrorism.

Igbo Leaders of Thought rejects handover of Enugu airport to private company 

  • Uncertainty over completion, reopening of Enugu airport
  • We will not allow this injustice to Ndigbo by the Tinubu Government to stand Famous Quotations
  • Warns that withdrawal of Federal Government funding would  compromise the standard of the airport

Igbo Leaders of Thought (ILT), a group of prominent Igbo intellectuals, traditional rulers and stakeholders, has totally rejected the transfer of the management of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, (AIIA) Enugu to a private company by the Federal Government.

ILT described the action of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration as “another grave act of injustice against Ndigbo in Nigeria and further escalation of the prolonged marginalisation of the South-East region in the affairs of the nation.”

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) had last Thursday handed over the Enugu International Airport to the concessionaire, Aero Alliance Limited, following the completion of all the necessary documentation.

Under the 30-year Public-Private partnership arrangement, facilitated by the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mba, the company will undertake the financing, rehabilitation, expansion, operation and management of the airport.

However, in a strong worded statement on Monday, ILT totally rejected the transfer of the airport to the concessionaire, warning that the withdrawal of Federal Government funding would definitely compromise the standard of the airport, including safety infrastructure, operational efficiency and passenger experience.

The group recalled that when the Federal Government commenced the process for the concession of the airport, it sparked significant controversy and backlash, revolving around issues of transparency, inadequate consultation, labour rights, contract duration and the sustainability of private funding for such a critical national asset.

It regretted that while the issues surrounding the concession were still pending, the Federal Government went ahead to concession Enugu International Airport to a company, without any visible record of managing an airport of such magnitude within Nigeria or overseas. “The implication is that out of the six International Airports in Nigeria, Enugu International Airport is the only one to be financed, operated and managed by a private company, while the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Aviation, continues to fund the remaining five.

“The Enugu Airport was established in the 1950s by the Government of Old Eastern Region as an aerodrome, before the Obasanjo military regime in the late 1970s upgraded it to a regular airport. The government of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua later upgraded it to International status in 2007 and after major refurbishment, it was eventually opened to international flights in 2013, and was renamed Akanu Ibiam International Airport by the Goodluck Jonathan government. It cost the Federal Government N14 billion to upgrade the airport under both the Yar’Adua and Jonathan governments.

“In October 2019, Tinubu’s predecessor, President Muhammmadu Buhari (now late), approved a N10 billion special intervention fund for a comprehensive upgrade and rehabilitation of Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu, focusing on rehabilitating the degraded runway, fixing the airfield lighting and installing proper perimeter fencing”, ILT noted   in the statement signed Prof. Elochukwu Amucheazi, the

President and Prof. Jerry Chukwuokolo, the

Secretary. FamousQuotations

According to them, this major upgrade, which gave the airport a facelift, was officially inaugurated in August 2020 with fanfare in the South East when Hadi Sirika was the Minister of Aviation. It regretted that the Tinubu government has reversed all the gains by handing Enugu airport over to a private company, while the Federal Government will continue funding and managing the remaining five international airports in the country.

“As of today, there is currently no active private concessionaire operating any of the other five international airports in Nigeria, namely, Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, Malam Aminu Kanu International Airport Kano, Port Harcourt International Airport and Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo. Why should the case of Enugu International Airport, the only international airport in the South East be different?

Curiously, the same Tinubu government that handed over Enugu International Airport to a private company, earlier cancelled the concession bidding programme for the international terminal of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos, and opted for a ₦712 billion structural rebuild, through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. FamousQuotations

“Festus Keyamo claimed during the handover ceremony that there are bidders for the other five international airports. Why did he not wait for the bidding processes to be concluded, so that all the six international airports would be handed over to concessionaires the same time? Why the haste in handing over Enugu International Airport? “When President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, he described his government as a continuation of Buhari government, meaning that he would continue the programmes and projects of his predecessor. Unfortunately, Tinubu changed his policy in the case of Enugu International Airport, by handing it over to a private company, rather than approve more intervention funds for the airport, like he did for the Lagos International Airport.

“This is another grave injustice to Ndigbo and further escalation of the marginalisation of the South-East in the affairs of the nation. We will not allow this injustice to Ndigbo by the Tinubu Government to stand”, they said, and vowed to use every lawful means possible  to challenge the concession of Enugu International Airport.

ILT regretted that the Federal Government proceeded to hand over the Enugu Airport to the company in spite of the reservations expressed by aviation unions about the opaque nature of the concession programme, including possible ties between the concessionaire and state officials The group maintained that the concession would retard the growth and development of the only international airport in the South East

“Based on our findings, none of the six international airports in Nigeria is profitable. What it means is that they are all relying on government funding to operate. If the federal government stops funding Enugu International Airport, even if for one day, the facilities will go down. Demographics

“If the airports are not profitable, where will the concessionaire get the money to maintain the airport for the next 30 years? So, the handover of Enugu Airport is injustice to the South East. The government should fund Enugu airport like other international airports in the country,” ILT stated.

renovated Obingwa General Hospital will be state-of-the-art facility, Abia govt Says

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia 

The Abia State Government has disclosed that the renovation, upgrade, and retrofitting of Obingwa General Hospital, Mgboko, will be comprehensive and result in a state-of-the-art facility.

Speaking during a pre-completion inspection of the facility, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, said the hospital is one of the general hospitals undergoing extensive renovation across the state and among those nearing completion.

He added that the visit was aimed at assessing the level of work done, ensuring that the project aligns with the vision and directives of Governor Dr. Alex Otti.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare services to residents as the renovation and upgrade of Obingwa General Hospital, Mgboko, nears completion.

“We came to look at the extent of completion of this facility and we are pleased to see that it is almost ready. Equipment installation has already commenced and some of the equipment have been delivered.

“We are here to ensure that the project is implemented as designed and in line with the aspirations and directives of the governor,” Prof. Uche stated.

He revealed that upon completion and commissioning, the hospital will serve as a major referral centre for primary healthcare facilities within Obingwa and neighbouring communities, including parts of Aba.

He disclosed that the facility would handle complicated pregnancies, surgical cases, childhood illnesses, and other medical conditions that cannot be managed at the primary healthcare level.

Prof. Uche further noted that the facility also provides accommodation for healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, as well as water supply infrastructure and a reliable power system, as directed by the Governor.

He stated that the project reflects the administration’s statewide healthcare transformation agenda. “From Umunneochi, to Nkwa East, to Arochukwu, from Ohafia to Ugwunagbo, from Bende to Isuikwuato, healthcare transformation is ongoing. It is a holistic and comprehensive approach to ensure that no community is left behind,” he added.

Speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of the Abia State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Odochi Azubuike, said the inspection was part of efforts to ensure that the project meets the highest standards before commissioning.

She added that the hospital project commenced about a year ago and has made remarkable progress under the present administration.

“We are here to put final touches to the project and critically assess every aspect of the facility because effective supervision is essential to the successful delivery of any project.

“I am proud to say that under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, Abia State has taken a giant leap in the healthcare sector,” Dr. Azubuike stated.

She commended the Governor’s unwavering commitment to healthcare development, stating that residents would soon begin to enjoy the benefits of the administration’s investments in the sector.

“All of us working with His Excellency are proud to be part of this transformational administration. Abians can see that the Governor is fulfilling his promise of providing accessible, quality, and affordable healthcare services to the people,” she said.

Xenophobia: We’ll shut down all South African businesses in Nigeria – NANS

National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has vowed to shut down all South African businesses in Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday against xenophobic attacks on Nigerian citizens in South Africa, NANS said no one has monopoly of violence.

This came against the backdrop of many attacks on Nigerians in the country, especially the broad day killing of a prominent Nigerian merchant, Big Joe, outside his shop in Witbank, Mpumalanga Province.

The association declared that Nigerian students are fully mobilized to shut down and occupy all multi-billion Naira South African businesses operating on Nigerian soil if the slaughter of their kinsmen does not stop immediately.

“We are watching the countdown to the June 30 deadline, and we are sending a direct, loud message to Pretoria. Nobody has the monopoly on violence.

“If the South African government and their compromised police force continue to watch their citizens hunt, shoot, and loot Nigerian nationals, we will bring down their entire economic infrastructure operating in Nigeria,” the students body said.

NAFDAC urges Nigerians to avoid unregistered products

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, yesterday urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to ensuring that everyone has access to safe and wholesome food, stressing that food safety is a fundamental human right.

Speaking at the agency’s 2026 World Food Safety Day celebration in Lagos, Adeyeye said achieving safe food across the country requires collective action by government, industry, food handlers and consumers.

Represented by the Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, Mrs Eva Edwards, the NAFDAC boss said the 2026 theme, “From Burden to Solutions – Safe Food Everywhere,” calls for practical and sustainable measures to tackle foodborne diseases and strengthen Nigeria’s food safety system.

She noted that World Food Safety Day, first observed in 2019 following its proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly, underscores the global commitment to protecting public health through safe food.

According to her, NAFDAC aligns with that commitment by working with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Food Safety Management Committee and international partners to promote stronger and more resilient food safety systems.

Adeyeye described safe food as an imperative and a fundamental human right, adding that protecting public health requires stronger regulatory systems and shared responsibility across the food value chain.

She explained that food safety concerns everyone involved in the food supply chain, from agricultural production, harvesting and storage to transportation, processing, distribution, retail, food service establishments and consumers.

“Everyone has a critical role to play in ensuring that food is safe from farm to fork,” she said.

The NAFDAC DG warned that unsafe food remains a major public health burden, contributing to preventable foodborne illnesses, food insecurity, economic losses, reduced productivity, export rejections, food waste and avoidable deaths.

“The theme challenges us to focus on practical and sustainable solutions that will ensure safe food for everyone, everywhere,” she said, adding that science-based regulation, education, responsible practices, innovation and collaboration are key to improving food safety.

She said strengthening food safety remains critical to protecting Nigerians, improving nutrition, supporting trade and building confidence in the country’s food system.

Clearing agents

Adeyeye added that as food supply chains become increasingly complex, the agency would continue strengthening regulatory systems, surveillance, laboratory capacity, industry compliance and public awareness.

She listed good agricultural practices, good hygiene practices, good manufacturing practices, proper storage and distribution, implementation of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points systems, and public education on the World Health Organisation’s five keys to safer food as essential measures for achieving safe food nationwide.

According to her, NAFDAC’s role as the country’s food safety regulatory authority is to ensure that food products available to Nigerians comply with national and international safety and quality standards.

She, however, stressed that regulation alone cannot guarantee food safety, noting that stronger partnerships among government agencies, industry operators and consumers are essential.

Adeyeye said Nigeria has made progress by shifting from reactive to preventive food safety systems through stronger regulatory oversight, risk-based approaches, improved public awareness and enhanced collaboration across sectors.

She urged Nigerians to remain vigilant by avoiding food products without proper labelling, NAFDAC registration numbers or traceable sources, noting that informed consumers are critical to safeguarding public health.

NNPCL reduces fuel price for second time in four days

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, has reduced its fuel pump price for the second time in four days.

A market survey on Saturday by our correspondent showed that NNPCL retail outlets around Airport Junction and Wuse Zone 6 (Berger) in Abuja have reduced their petrol price to N1210 per litre, down from N1260.

This means that the state-owned oil firm slashed the petrol price by N50 per litre.

This came barely two days after Dangote Refinery reduced its petrol gantry price by N50 to N1,125 per litre.

It would be recalled that four days ago, NNPCL had adjusted its fuel price pump by N75 per litre to N1260.

With the latest drop by NNPCL retail outlets, petrol prices stand between N1210 per litre and N1305 per litre in Abuja and its environs.

The reduction in domestic fuel comes amid falling crude oil prices, which stand at $69 per barrel and $71 per barrel for West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude, respectively, following the easing of the conflict in the Middle East.

The  reports stated that President Bola Tinubu has kept mum amid the clamour by Nigerians for a commensurate drop in domestic fuel pump prices due to the significant reduction in crude oil prices.

Politicians steal result sheets, risk lives of INEC staff – Amaechi warns

The presidential running mate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Rotimi Amaechi, has accused politicians of stealing result sheets at unit level during polls.

Amaechi warned that politicians steal result sheets at the risk of the lives of ad-hoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Addressing a group of youths, the former Rivers State governor said: “On the day of election in your Ward and in your Unit, you  finish voting, you stand for the counting. I have been a politician all my life, I have never worked anywhere before.

“I left university in 1987 and joined politics that same year, so you won’t teach me, unit level is where they vote.

“Politicians steal result sheets at the unit level risking the life of the INEC adhoc officer. As he comes, show us the result sheet or you are not going because politicians don’t care about your life, some parents must stop their children who want to be adhoc staff.”

He charged Nigerians to always insist on their votes being counted at the polling units during elections.

He added: “If there is a result sheet, we will queue up and when they finish counting, if you don’t upload it you are not going

“If we finish the election and there are one million persons in front of INEC and trust me if you do all these, ADC can mobilize one million people to INEC office.

“Don’t forget that there is an election that would have been rigged in Nigeria, the election that made Kwankwaso governor, how many of you remember that, when they looked outside and saw 500 persons what did they do, they announced.”

NDC not deregistered, our candidates will contest 2027 Polls – Dickson

National leader of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, has insisted that the party remains legally recognised and that all its candidates will be on the ballot for the 2027 general election despite a recent Federal High Court judgment that nullified an earlier order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Dickson described the Lokoja Federal High Court judgment as “irregular” and said the party had already commenced the appeal process.

His comments followed Friday’s judgment by Justice Isah Dashen of the Federal High Court in Lokoja, which set aside the court’s December 10, 2025 ruling directing INEC to register the NDC.

The court acted on an application filed by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that it was not joined in the original proceedings despite having a legal interest in the matter. Justice Dashen held that parties with vested interests should have been joined and ordered that the case be heard afresh.

Dickson, however, maintained that the judgment neither deregistered the NDC nor invalidated the candidacies of those who emerged from the party’s primaries.

“I assure all our candidates and members, nominations are done at the primaries that took place at the various levels. The submission to INEC is an administrative procedure. So, the NDC is a party. The court itself did not direct its deregistration and no step has been taken whatsoever to that effect,” he said.

The former Bayelsa State governor urged party members, candidates and stakeholders to remain calm, saying the appellate courts would overturn what he described as an anomaly.

“As soon as possible, as the party has said, once the appeal is lodged and the necessary papers are filed, it is a matter that will go to the highest levels to set aside the irregular judgement,” he said.

Dickson argued that the party had validly conducted primaries for State Houses of Assembly, National Assembly, governorship and presidential elections under the supervision of INEC, with all nominees acquiring vested legal rights.

“We expect that the appeal process and the applications that will follow… will correct this matter. So, we are on course,” he said.

He further stated that all nominations already concluded and monitored by INEC remained valid.

According to Dickson, the Lokoja judgment merely nullified the earlier order directing INEC to register the NDC and did not contain any mandatory order requiring the electoral commission to deregister the party.

“This ruling did not do that. But there’s a judgement that INEC had that compelled INEC to register. That judgement in the hands of INEC is now a nullity. That judgement means nothing.

“Courts don’t function that way. Orders of courts are to be construed strictly. It was possible for the court to have made that order on deregistration if that was what it wanted. But the court did not say so,” he said.

He also argued that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the application and expressed confidence that the Court of Appeal would resolve the matter in the party’s favour.

Dickson questioned the legal standing of the Peace Movement Party, contending that it is not a registered political party under Nigerian law and therefore lacked the legal capacity to institute the action.

“I would like you and all Nigerians to know this. The party that went to file an application… is not a registered political party at all.

“It is actually a non-entity. It is unknown to the laws of Nigeria,” he said.

He further alleged that the organisation had unsuccessfully sought registration in 2015 and had remained inactive ever since, describing the proceedings initiated by the group as “frivolous” and “embarrassing.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, Dickson expressed confidence that the NDC would perform strongly at the polls and said the party remained open to alliances that could enhance its electoral prospects.

He also maintained that President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could be defeated in the next election if Nigerians united behind a common objective.

On security, Dickson welcomed moves by both the executive and the National Assembly to establish state police but advocated a broader decentralisation of policing through zonal, state and local government structures to improve internal security.

Uzodimma to Imo residents: Respect government, protect public assets

Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma has called on residents and indigenes to respect constituted authority, safeguard public assets, and embrace responsible citizenship to sustain the State’s development.

He said good citizenship is an attitude every resident and indigene of Imo State must embrace with faith.

Uzodimma spoke Sunday, June 28, 2026 at the end of Mass held at Government House Chapel, Owerri where he lamented the willful destruction, and illegal occupation of government property, describing such acts as a major setback to development.

“Our attitude is important,” Uzodimma said, stressing that citizens must cultivate respect for public infrastructure and desist from encroaching on government land.

He noted that huge public funds have been invested in roads and other facilities, but that some individuals deliberately resort to damaging or misusing them.

The Governor also urged politicians and citizens alike to place the collective interest of Imo State above personal ambitions.

“For you to be a politician, you must first be a citizen of Nigeria. Separate our common interest from your personal interest,” he said.

Uzodimma reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and equitable development, insisting that Owerri belongs to all Imo people as the capital and should be preserved as the State’s common heritage.

He further encouraged those with political aspirations to trust God’s timing, urging them not to lose hope when their ambitions are not immediately realized or delayed, but to continue supporting the government and praying for the progress of Imo State.

Earlier in his homily, the Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Rev. Fr. Prof. Gilbert Alaribe, called on Christians to embrace the true cost of discipleship by living lives of sacrifice, generosity and unwavering faith, stressing that genuine love for God and humanity always comes at a price.

Rev. Alaribe reflected on the Gospel of the day, reminding the faithful that following Jesus Christ demands complete commitment and self-denial.

Quoting the words of Jesus, he said, “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”

He explained that authentic love, whether in marriage, family life or Christian service, inevitably involves sacrifice and selflessness.

The Chaplin added: “There can be no genuine love without a price to pay. If you try to preserve your life by living only for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give your life in service to God and to others, you will truly find it.”

Drawing from the first reading on the Shunammite woman, the priest commended the couple’s generosity in welcoming the Prophet Elisha, a stranger, into their home without expecting any reward.

He urged Christians to cultivate resilient faith even in difficult times, noting that the Shunammite couple remained steadfast despite years of childlessness and later the death of their son before God restored him through the prayers of Elisha.

The cleric concluded with a call for believers to imitate Christ’s sacrificial love and pray for the grace to remain faithful.

The wife of the Governor, Barr (Mrs.) Chioma Uzodimma, the Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe and other members of the House of Assembly, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, serving and former APC National and State chieftains and other members, traditional rulers, business moguls and members of the State Expanded Executive Council worshipped with the Governor.

Dangote Refinery imports first crude from UAE

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has purchased two cargoes of crude oil from the United Arab Emirates, UAE.

S&P Global Commodity Insights reported that the latest crude import from the UAE is the first-ever procurement of Middle Eastern crude as the plant expands its feedstock sources amid persistent domestic supply constraints from Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL.

The refinery, designed primarily to process Nigeria’s light sweet crude, has increasingly diversified its crude slate as operations ramp up optimally.

According to S&P Global, the refinery has been broadening the range of crude grades it processes as part of its ambition to operate as a fully merchant refinery. The report said that in 2025, about 70 per cent of the refinery’s crude imports came from Nigeria, while 24 per cent originated from the United States.

It would be recalled that the NNPCL had guaranteed the supply of between 13 and 15 cargoes of Nigerian crude monthly in naira in an agreement called the naira-for-crude deal, helping the refinery reduce its foreign exchange exposure.

However, despite the deal, domestic crude supply to the mega-refinery had been facing constraints.

Speaking earlier this year, Bird said the refinery intended to increase the share of heavier crude grades in its feedstock mix. “We definitely want to heavy up the barrel,” Bird said in April.

The reports said that crude oil prices had eased to less than $70 per barrel last week but began rising on Monday following the latest strikes by the United States and Iran despite the completion of the peace deal.

Obi to FG: Rebuild existing roads before new projects

The presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the rehabilitation and maintenance of existing road infrastructure rather than embarking on new road construction projects.

Obi made the call in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, where he reiterated his long-held position that repairing Nigeria’s critical road network should take precedence over announcing new projects.

According to him, many of the country’s major highways have deteriorated to the point of becoming a burden on commuters, businesses and transport operators, stressing that available resources should be channelled towards restoring existing roads to motorable condition.

He cited the Asaba–Benin Road as an example of a strategic highway that requires urgent intervention, noting that it serves as a major link for travellers from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and parts of Benue and Kogi states travelling to Lagos.

Obi said the deplorable condition of large sections of the road has resulted in persistent traffic congestion and imposed significant hardship on motorists and commercial activities.

He added that the situation on the Asaba–Benin Road mirrors the condition of many other critical highways across the country.

“Our efforts should be directed towards the reconstruction and maintenance of our current road infrastructure before we announce plans for new road projects. The Nigerian populace requires functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention,” he said.

The former Anambra State governor also argued that projects designed for political visibility should not take precedence over addressing the urgent need to rehabilitate existing road infrastructure.

He maintained that investing in the restoration of critical highways would deliver greater benefits to Nigerians than embarking on new road dualisation and construction projects with limited immediate impact.

Obi ended the statement with his familiar refrain, expressing optimism that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”

16-year-old girl emerges Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has congratulated Osasere Okundaye on emerging as Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at the age of 16.
In a statement yesterday, Olawande described the feat as a remarkable demonstration of hard work, discipline, resilience and commitment to excellence.
“I heartily congratulate Miss Osasere Okundaye on her outstanding achievement of becoming Nigeria’s youngest Chartered Accountant at just 16 years of age.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” the minister said.
He noted that Okundaye had become a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youths, saying her achievement should inspire others to pursue excellence.
“Osasere has distinguished herself as a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth. Her accomplishment reminds us that with determination, dedication, and the right support, young Nigerians can break barriers, set new records, and inspire a generation to dream bigger and strive for excellence,” he added.
The minister also congratulated her parents, family, teachers and mentors for supporting her journey.
“I also congratulate her parents, family, teachers, mentors, and everyone who has supported and guided her journey. Their encouragement, sacrifices, and belief in her abilities have undoubtedly contributed to this exceptional success,” he said.
Olawande reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through programmes and policies aimed at helping them realise their potential.
“Osasere’s achievement reinforces our confidence that the future of Nigeria is bright in the hands of focused, determined, and talented young citizens,” he said.
He wished the teenager greater success in the years ahead, expressing hope that her story would inspire millions of young Nigerians.
Okundaye earned the feat after qualifying as a chartered accountant through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, becoming the youngest person to achieve the professional qualification in the country.
Her achievement surpasses the previous record set in 2022 by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria’s youngest chartered accountant at the age of 17 after completing the rigorous ICAN professional examinations.
The qualification, which is typically obtained by graduates and professionals after years of study and examinations, has been widely regarded as one of the country’s most demanding professional certifications.

Senate passes state police bill, empowers govs to appoint commissioners

The Senate on yesterday passed the landmark Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish state police across the federation, marking a major step in Nigeria’s decades-long debate over decentralising the country’s policing structure to address worsening insecurity.

The passage followed a rigorous clause-by-clause consideration of the bill and came after more than two-thirds of senators voted in support through a manual voting process conducted on the floor of the chamber.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the passage of the legislation after lawmakers overwhelmingly backed the proposal during plenary.

The upper chamber approved the bill after considering the report of the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, presented by Deputy Senate President and committee chairman, Barau Jibrin.

The bill’s provisions were first considered at the Committee of the Whole before lawmakers adopted them and proceeded to a final vote.

Debate on the legislation was led by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who urged senators to support what many lawmakers described as a critical reform aimed at strengthening internal security and improving response to local threats.

The legislation seeks to establish a state policing framework that would operate concurrently with the existing federal police system, effectively ending the exclusive control of policing by the Federal Government.

A key provision of the bill “empowers state governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their respective states, subject to confirmation by the state Houses of Assembly.”

Under Clause 17 of the proposed constitutional amendment, “while the Federal Police Service will continue to be headed by the Inspector-General of Police, each State Police Service shall be headed by a Commissioner of Police appointed by the governor and confirmed by the legislature of the state.”

The bill further outlines the operational relationship between governors and state police commands.

Section 17(6) provides that “a governor may issue lawful written directives of a general policy nature to the Commissioner of Police on matters relating to the maintenance of public safety and public order within the state.”

To address concerns over potential abuse of the new policing structure by state governments, lawmakers included safeguards aimed at protecting political freedoms and civil liberties.

Section 17(7) specifically states that “a state Commissioner of Police shall not arrest, detain, investigate or deploy force against any person, political party or group merely for criticising the government except in accordance with the law.”

The provision is intended to prevent state police formations from being weaponised against political opponents, activists, journalists or dissenting voices and ensures that any action taken must comply with due process and existing legal provisions.

The passage of the bill came barely an hour after the Senate abandoned plans to deploy an electronic voting system for the consideration of the State Police Bill and other constitutional amendment proposals.

Lawmakers instead adopted a manual voting process following concerns that technical glitches affecting some voting devices could disenfranchise senators and undermine the integrity of the exercise.

The decision followed a motion made by Bamidele, who argued that every senator should be given an equal opportunity to participate in the historic vote.

Akpabio backed the proposal, insisting that an open voting system would not only guarantee full participation but also promote transparency by allowing Nigerians to know where their representatives stood on critical constitutional issues.

Several senior government officials, including the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani; Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; and the Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, witnessed the Senate’s decision on the floor of the Senate.

Following the adoption of the motion, senators were called individually to publicly declare their votes during the consideration of the constitutional amendment bills.

The successful passage of the State Police Bill represents one of the most consequential constitutional reforms undertaken by the 10th National Assembly and is expected to reshape Nigeria’s security architecture if it secures the required approval of state Houses of Assembly and other constitutional processes.

Advocates of state policing have long argued that the country’s centrally controlled police structure is overstretched and unable to effectively tackle the growing challenges of banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, communal clashes and other forms of criminality across the country.

Critics, however, have consistently warned that state police could be abused by governors to intimidate political opponents and suppress dissent.

With the Senate’s approval, the proposal has now crossed a major legislative hurdle, bringing Nigeria closer than ever to the creation of state-controlled police services operating alongside the federal police system.

Dangote Refinery denies claims of fuel export, re-importation scheme

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has dismissed allegations that its petroleum products are exported to Lomé, Togo, and subsequently re-imported into Nigeria, describing the claims as false, misleading and lacking any commercial or operational basis.

In a statement issued by its management, the company expressed concern over the circulation of what it described as unfounded reports suggesting that products refined at its facility are being routed through neighbouring countries before finding their way back into the Nigerian market.

While noting that it does not usually respond to baseless allegations, the refinery said it was compelled to address the issue in the interest of transparency and public understanding.

According to the statement, the allegations are not supported by verifiable trade data, commercial logic or the operational realities of the refinery.

The management reiterated that one of the refinery’s core objectives is to strengthen domestic fuel supply and serve as a leading provider of petroleum products in Nigeria, stressing that any arrangement that encourages imports to compete with its own products would run contrary to that mandate.

It disclosed that all sales contracts and tender agreements signed with buyers expressly prohibit the resale or re-importation of Dangote Refinery products into Nigeria.

The company further argued that the economics of such a trade route make no business sense, noting that the cost of transporting products from the refinery to Lomé and back into Nigeria is estimated at between $82 and $90 per metric tonne.

According to the statement, such additional logistics expenses would significantly reduce profit margins and render the transaction commercially unviable.

“Dangote Refinery does not provide export discounts sufficient to offset these costs or create arbitrage opportunities between export and domestic markets. Simply put, no rational producer would incur additional shipping, storage, financing and handling costs only for products to re-enter and compete in its primary market,” the company stated.

Management also highlighted the refinery’s product traceability measures, which include comprehensive records of lifting points, nominated vessels, counterparties and declared destinations.

It said these safeguards ensure transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain, making it possible to track the movement of products from the refinery to their final destinations.

The company maintained that any suggestion that it facilitates or tolerates the re-importation of its products is inconsistent with its contractual obligations and compliance standards.

Dangote Refinery further emphasized its long-standing advocacy for reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products, warning that any practice encouraging re-importation would undermine local refining efforts, place additional pressure on foreign exchange reserves and weaken industrial growth.

The refinery insisted that there is no strategic, economic or operational justification for claims that it exports products for re-importation into Nigeria.

It described the allegations as entirely unfounded and incapable of withstanding scrutiny when examined against established market realities, contractual frameworks and industry practices.

Reaffirming its commitment to national development, the company said it remains focused on enhancing energy security, supporting local refining and contributing to Africa’s industrialisation agenda.

Wike to Yobo: Tell Super Eagles we are not happy about Nigeria’s World Cup absence

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, to convey the frustrations of Nigerians to the national team.

Wike spoke yesterday during the commissioning of the Gwagwalada-Kuje Road project in the FCT, where Yobo was among the dignitaries in attendance.

The minister said it was painful to watch countries with less football pedigree feature at the World Cup while Nigeria, despite its wealth of talent and global football reputation, would be absent from the tournament.

While acknowledging Yobo’s contributions to Nigerian football, Wike said many Nigerians remained unhappy with the Super Eagles’ failure to secure a place at the global football showpiece.

“Yes, we have congratulated one of our stars, Joseph Yobo. But let me use this medium through you to tell the Super Eagles: we are not happy,” Wike said.

“If nobody else will tell you that—because I saw people clapping for you the moment they saw the Super Eagles—I said, ‘I won’t clap.’ I won’t clap because I watch the World Cup. I see countries I have never heard of before qualifying to play in the World Cup, and I am sitting down for hours watching countries that are completely unknown.

“In this contest, we have no fewer than 13 top Nigerian players playing all over the world, yet we did not qualify. Yobo, go and tell them. We are not happy.”

The minister noted that Nigeria boasts some of the best football talents across major leagues worldwide and said the country’s absence from the tournament remained difficult for football-loving Nigerians to accept.

Nigeria will miss a second consecutive FIFA World Cup after failing to secure qualification for the 2026 tournament. The Super Eagles were eliminated during the African qualifying playoffs after suffering a penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The three-time African champions had initially lost out on an automatic qualification ticket despite a convincing victory over Benin Republic in their final qualifying match. Although they secured a playoff berth as one of the best second-placed teams, their hopes of reaching the World Cup ended following the defeat to DR Congo.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico, is already underway, with football fans across Nigeria following the competition despite the absence of the Super Eagles.

Court returns Sowore to Kuje prison pending June 30 ruling on bail application

Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that the activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, be returned to Kuje prison pending the Court’s decision on his plea for bail.

The Judge yesterday, fixed June 30 for ruling on Sowore’s motion seeking the restoration of his bail and the setting aside of a bench warrant issued against him.

Justice Umar adjourned the matter after parties adopted their processes in the application.

It would be recalled that the court had on June 16, revoked Sowore’s bail, and issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear in court for his trial regarding alleged cybercrime and criminal defamation.

The Department of State Services is prosecuting Sowore for alleged criminal defamation over claims that he referred to President Bola Tinubu as a “criminal” in posts made on his official X and Facebook accounts.

Sowore has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The court had on Monday, ordered the remand of the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress at the Kuje Correctional Centre, pending the determination of his application seeking a stay of execution of an earlier order revoking his bail.

At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, Sowore’s counsel, R.O. Adakole, alongside C.S. Etonyeaku, holding the brief of Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), informed the court that the defendant had filed a motion on notice dated June 17 and filed on June 19, 2026.

The application, brought pursuant to Sections 35(4), 36(1) and 6(6)(a) and (b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Sections 169 and 352 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, and the inherent jurisdiction of the court, sought 12 reliefs.

Among the reliefs sought were an order setting aside the court’s June 16 order revoking the defendant’s bail, an order vacating the bench warrant issued against him, and an order restoring the status quo and the earlier bail conditions.

The defence said it relied on a 34-paragraph affidavit deposed to by one Emmanuel Larry, and a written address filed in support of the application.

Counsel further informed the court that a “better” 36-paragraph affidavit, deposed to by one Sodiq Temitope, was filed on June 24, alongside a reply on points of law dated June 23.

Adopting the processes, the defence urged the court to “grant the application as prayed in the interest of justice. We also urge the court to discountenance the affidavit of the complainant.”

Responding, prosecuting counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, said the Federal Government had filed a 25-paragraph counter-affidavit deposed to by one Moses Madara, and a written address in opposition to the application.

He said the prosecution was relying on all the paragraphs of the affidavit, particularly paragraphs 10 to 23.

“We shall be relying on the aforementioned processes, urging your Lordship to refuse the application, as the applicant has not placed truthful facts before this honourable court that are capable of swaying the mind of the court to exercise its discretion in favour of the applicant,” Kehinde said.

After hearing the parties, Justice Umar adjourned the matter to the 30th of June, 2026 for ruling.

Following the adjournment, the defence orally applied for Sowore to be released to his legal team pending the ruling, undertaking to produce him in court on June 30.

The prosecution opposed the request, describing it as “a little bit absurd” and arguing that such an application ought to be made formally to enable the prosecution respond.

In his reply, the defence argued that releasing the defendant would not interfere with the court’s ruling and that the application was within the court’s discretion.

Counsel also informed the court that he had received information that Sowore was in a bad state of health and urged the court to grant the request.

The prosecution, however, reminded the court of “the optics of the matter” but left the decision to the discretion of the court.

Justice Umar pointed out that granting the request would defeat the purpose of adjourning the case to prepare his ruling, noting that he was yet to go through the processes filed by both parties.

He subsequently denied the application, and ordered that the defendant be returned to court for the ruling on June 30.

‘He’s valuable asset’ – PDP faction refutes Wike’s defection to APC

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculations that he has defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

National Publicity Secretary of the faction, Jungudo Mohammed, made this clarification in a statement testerday, describing Wike as a valuable asset.

The clarification followed recent comments by APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, who openly praised Wike’s leadership and said he was jealous that the minister is not in the ruling party.

“The commendation from the ruling party only confirms the quality of leaders the opposition has produced over the years.

“We have no intention of allowing Wike leave permanently, regardless of political pressure or offers from the APC. He is a valuable asset to the PDP,” the statement said.

the reports said that Wike is a card carrying member of the PDP but is working as a minister under the APC-led Federal Government.

Ward Women Leaders pay courtesy visit to Nwangele LGA Executive Chairman

By Ohaeri Bibiana

The Ward Women Leaders of Nwangele Local Government Area paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Nwangele LGA, Hon. Chief Paul Chijioke Duru, at the Council Headquarters, Amaigbo, in a demonstration of solidarity, support, and commitment to the growth of the Local Government and the ruling party.

Welcoming the delegation to his office, the Executive Chairman expressed appreciation to the women leaders for the visit and assured them that their requests would receive due consideration. He emphasized the important role women play in politics and governance, assuring them that they would continue to be carried along in political activities and decision-making processes.

Chief Duru reiterated his commitment to ensuring that women are adequately recognized and empowered across the various wards and polling units in the Local Government Area. He encouraged the women to remain steadfast in their support for the ruling party and the government, noting that their contributions remain invaluable to the political success of the party.

The Chairman further assured the women leaders that empowerment programmes aimed at improving their welfare and enhancing their political participation would be implemented in due course.

Earlier in her address, the Nwangele LGA Woman Leader, Hon. Mrs. Rose Okezuo, thanked the Executive Chairman for granting them audience and commended him for his outstanding performance and developmental strides in the council area.

Mrs. Okezuo assured the Chairman of the unwavering support, cooperation, and loyalty of the ward women leaders, adding that they would continue to mobilize and encourage the people of Nwangele to support and join the ruling party.

Also speaking, the Vice Woman Leader, Mrs. Happiness Uzoegbu, highlighted the benefits of supporting the ruling party and emphasized the importance of praying for and supporting the government in power. She pledged the continued support and cooperation of the women leaders towards the success of the administration.

Present during the visit were Hon. Ferdinand Akano, Ward Women Leaders, and other stakeholders.

Imo CP hosts INEC

…Restates commitment to securing electoral process

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to securing the electoral process in the state and ensuring a conducive environment for free, fair, peaceful, and credible elections.

The CP made this known during a courtesy visit by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Imo State, Hon. Chukwuemeka Christopher and members of his management team to the Command Headquarters, Owerri.

During the visit, the REC commended the Imo State Police Command for its support during previous electoral activities and expressed appreciation for the existing partnership between INEC and the Police. He also sought continued collaboration and requested enhanced security coverage around INEC offices and facilities across the state.

In response, CP Bosso assured the REC of the Command’s readiness to provide adequate security for INEC personnel, facilities, and all electoral activities. He further pledged sustained patrols and other proactive measures to safeguard the electoral process.

The CP emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies. Reiterating the Nigeria Police Force’s advocacy of “See Something, Say Something,” he called on Imolites to support efforts aimed at ensuring peaceful, secure, and credible elections in Imo State.

 

Imo people deserve economic independence, says Akagburuonye

National President of the Hope Rising for Imolites Foundation (Olile Anya Di, Maka Odinma Ndimo), Barr. Success Akagburuonye has said that the people of Imo State deserve economic independence, stressing that massive job creation and entrepreneurship remain key to reducing poverty and improving livelihoods in the state.
Akagburuonye, spoke on Monday during the flag-off of his foundation’s empowerment training programme for Imolites drawn from the 27 local government areas of the state.
The event was held at the Assemblies of God Church auditorium, Ogbor Uvuru, in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
He said the initiative, which is being funded with several millions of naira, is designed to equip and empower over 200 participants with practical skills in paints production technology, makeup artistry, catering, modern decoration, detergent production, and business development.
According to him, the two-week intensive training programme is part of his strategic efforts to cushion the harsh economic realities currently affecting many Nigerians, especially residents of Imo State.
Akagburuonye said his vision is to empower citizens with sustainable skills that will enable them to become self-reliant rather than dependent on handouts.
“I have said it loud and clear, and I will repeat it here today: I am not a professional politician or a typical Nigerian politician. I have my means of livelihood that sustains me, my family, and dependents,” he said.
He added that his goal is to inspire people to become self-confident, hardworking, and God-fearing while remaining compassionate toward others.
“I want to infect my followers with the spirit of self-confidence, teaching them to trust in God, work hard, and remain sensitive to the needs of others. We must show love, care, and be willing to make sacrifices to impact lives positively,” he said.
Akagburuonye further pledged to attract opportunities and development to Mbaise, Imo State, and Nigeria at large.
“I made a promise to myself that if I see anything good in Imo State, I will attract it to Mbaise. If I see anything good outside Imo State, I will bring it to the state. If I see anything beneficial outside Nigeria, I will attract it to Nigeria,” he stated.
The frontline Imo governorship hopeful for 2027 also reiterated his commitment to teaching people how to create wealth for themselves rather than merely providing temporary relief, while cautioning against sycophancy and betrayal.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Patience Mekwunye, leader of Pato-Binto Entrepreneurial and Skills Acquisition, Abuja, the organisation facilitating the training, alongside the Director of Projects, Mr. Muhammed Ibn Saheeb, outlined six key training areas.
These include paints production technology, makeup artistry, decoration, catering, household chemical production such as detergents and soap making, as well as entrepreneurship education aimed at fostering business growth and economic sustainability.

FG to engage cement producers July 1 over high prices — Umahi

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has said the Federal Government will begin engagements with cement manufacturers from July 1st to address the rising cost of cement in the country.

Umahi revealed this at the unveiling of Lafarge’s new corporate identity, now rebranded as HBM, a member of the HUAXIN Group, at the Lagos Continental Hotel.

This was contained in a statement signed by his Media aide, Francis Nwaze, in Abuja, yesterday.

The minister said the high cost of cement was placing pressure on ongoing infrastructure projects and increasing contractors’ demands for contract variations.

“I want to insist that Lafarge, now HBM, and other manufacturers of cement should reduce their prices. We shall be engaging on this from the first of July,” Umahi stated.

“Manufacturers of cement must reduce their prices because the contractors are choking me to review their contracts. But nobody is reviewing anybody’s contract. It’s the manufacturers of cement that should review their costs,” he added.

Umahi noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is investing heavily in critical infrastructure nationwide, creating unprecedented opportunities for manufacturers and investors.

He urged HBM and other industry players to expand production capacity to meet the growing demands of the nation’s infrastructure revolution.

While commending the company on its rebranding and renewed commitment to Nigeria, the minister assured the management of government support and partnership.

He said, “I commend you very highly, and I say welcome on board, and we are going to work together. The market is smaller than the president’s efforts. So, enlarge your coast.”

The minister highlighted progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as evidence of the administration’s bold vision for national transformation.

He said the quality and scale of the project had attracted global attention, with foreign institutions acknowledging its standard.

“When the Dutch Bank came to evaluate our project, they said it was undervalued and that the project is of topmost quality. Today, our neighbouring nations are coming to steal the technology of the coastal highway,” Umahi stated.

Umahi expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the leadership and political will driving the country’s infrastructure renaissance, assuring Nigerians that the administration remained on course to restore prosperity.

“I want to use this opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and I commit that Mr. President is committed to taking this country. The President knows what he is doing. The vision and mission are achievable, and we are on course, and this country will be taken back for the good of Nigerians,” he said.

 

Lassa fever death toll hits 214 as fatality rate rises to 25%

…NCDC flags growing concern over infections, delayed treatment

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, (NCDC) yesterday disclosed that the country’s Lassa fever outbreak has claimed 214 lives so far in 2026, with the fatality rate rising to 25 per cent.

The report for Epidemiological Week 23, covering June 1 to 7, showed that 13 new confirmed cases and four fresh deaths were recorded across Edo, Ondo, Bauchi and Ebonyi states, keeping the weekly infection figure at the same level as the previous week but with a higher death toll.

Cumulatively, the NCDC said Nigeria has recorded 855 confirmed cases from 5,652 suspected infections across 23 states and 109 local government areas, reflecting a steady rise in the outbreak’s spread.

The agency noted that the current fatality rate of 25 per cent is significantly higher than the 18.9 per cent recorded within the same period in 2025, when 143 deaths were reported from 758 confirmed cases

According to the report, five states; Ondo, Bauchi, Taraba, Edo, and Benue account for 84 per cent of all confirmed cases this year, with Ondo leading at 28 per cent, followed by Bauchi at 25 per cent and Taraba at 15 per cent.

The NCDC said the disease continues to affect mostly young adults between 21 and 30 years, with cases recorded among patients aged between one and 93 years.

It attributed the rising fatality rate to late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour and the high cost of treatment, warning that these factors remain major obstacles in reducing deaths.

“The number of suspected and confirmed cases has increased compared to the same period in 2025, while late presentation continues to contribute to the higher fatality rate,” the agency said. The report also highlighted poor environmental sanitation and low awareness in some high-burden communities as contributing factors fueling transmission. Despite the challenges, the NCDC noted that no healthcare worker was infected in the reporting week, while national and state-level response measures remain active, including case management, surveillance, community engagement and training of frontline health workers.

The agency urged Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with rodents and seek immediate medical attention once symptoms such as fever, weakness, sore throat or unexplained bleeding appear.

Catholic Bishops condemn reintegration of repentant bandits

… Demand justice for victims

The Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have criticised the reintegration of so-called repentant bandits into society and security structures, describing the practice as unjust and a disservice to victims of violent crimes across Nigeria.

The bishops made their position known in a statement issued during a press conference amid growing concern over the continued captivity of 39 pupils and seven teachers abducted from schools in Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State more than a month ago.

In the statement jointly signed by the President of the province, Gabriel Leke Abegunrin, and the Secretary, Anselm Lawani, the clerics said the practice of rehabilitating former bandits while victims and their families continue to suffer sends a dangerous message to society.

According to them, such policies undermine confidence in the justice system and risk encouraging further criminality.

“The ongoing reintegration of so-called repentant bandits into security agencies and society, while victims of crime and their families are neglected, rubs dirt on the face of justice,” the statement read.

The bishops insisted that justice requires that kidnappers, bandits and other violent offenders be made to face the full consequences of their actions rather than being rewarded through rehabilitation programmes.

They warned that failure to ensure accountability could embolden further attacks on innocent citizens and weaken national security.

The clerics linked their concerns to the worsening security situation in the country, citing the prolonged captivity of the abducted Oriire pupils and teachers as evidence that victims often suffer while perpetrators appear to benefit from leniency.

While calling for the immediate release of the abductees, they urged the Federal and Oyo State Governments to strengthen efforts to restore public safety and confidence.

They also advocated comprehensive security reforms, including improved intelligence gathering, better policing of forests, deployment of modern technology, and the creation of state police.

According to them, state policing would enable quicker response to local threats, improve intelligence at community level and strengthen collaboration between security agencies and residents, provided there are proper safeguards and oversight.

The bishops stressed that national healing and unity cannot be achieved without justice, accountability and adequate support for victims of crime.

They concluded by urging government at all levels to prioritise the welfare of victims and ensure that those responsible for kidnapping, banditry and terrorism are prosecuted in accordance with the law, while also calling on Nigerians to pray for the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.

Kanu, VDM, others react as Sowore lands in Kuje prison

Reactions have continued to trail the decision of the Abuja Federal High Court to remand politicians and activist, Omoyele Sowore, in Kuje prison.

The report said that Justice Mohammed Garba Umar, in a short ruling yesterday, ordered Sowore to be kept in prison pending the hearing and determination of his motion for stay of the order for revocation of his bail and bench warrant.

The activist is being prosecuted for allegedly making false claims against the person of President Bola Tinubu by referring to him as “a criminal” in a post he made on his X and Facebook accounts.

Reacting to the order for his remand, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, a younger brother to the convicted leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, expressed optimism that the activist will overcome.

In a post on his official Facebook page, Kanu wrote, “Know that you are not alone in this battle. Surely, from grass to grace. Oppression, suppression, and subjugation are never sustainable.

“You will always emerge victorious. The universe remains on the side of justice. Biafrans are earnestly praying for you.”

Also reacting, activist Martins Vincent Otse widely known as VeryDarkMan, VDM, in a post on his Facebook page, alleged that corruption has taken over the justice system.

He said, “All I can say here is that there is corruption in the Justice system in Nigeria. They are prosecuting him for calling Tinubu a thief, I don’t know Sowore’s interpretation of ‘thief’ but in my own interpretation, Tinubu’s government has robbed us of a lot of things.

“They robbed us of access to farm land and access to secured road. As I speak to you today, the whole Northern region has been taken over by terrorists and bandits.

“If you ask me, I would say that Tinubu’s administration is a thief. I am not a supporter of Sowore but that doesn’t mean we will be deaf ears about what is happening.”

Several other Nigerians have taken to their social media handles to condemn the move by the court, saying it is politically motivated.

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