CKN News

Miss UNIJOS Mourns Her Fiance Killed By Bandits

2026-06-11T15:44:54.751+01:00

Reigning Miss University of Jos, Promise Dikko, is mourning her fiance who was k!lled by bandits.

The beauty queen confirmed the devastating news in a Facebook post on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

According to Dikko, they had made preparation and bookings for their wedding scheduled to hold on December 27, 2026.

“Rip my hero. I kept this photo to post it when it close to wedding date,” she wrote.

“27th December was supposed to be the date. We have made prep and bookings.

“But you left me. Bandit k!lled you for me. Nigeria happened to me. Rest easy my hero.”

House Of Reps Passes State Police Bill

2026-06-11T14:39:48.008+01:00

The House of Representatives on Thursday passed a constitutional amendment bill to establish state police nationwide.

The passage marks a significant step in Nigeria’s long-running debate over decentralising policing and tackling insecurity.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 to Provide for the Establishment of State Police; and for Related Matters (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026,” was approved during consideration at the Committee of the Whole, presided over by Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas.

The voting commenced after the Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Benjamin Kalu, presented arguments in support of the proposal and urged lawmakers to back the measure.

The exercise was conducted manually, with members raising their hands to indicate their positions.

At the end of the count, about 288 lawmakers voted in support of the bill, while four members voted against it.

The proposed amendment seeks to fundamentally restructure policing in Nigeria by creating both Federal and State Police formations.

One of the key provisions of the bill alters Section 214 of the Constitution to establish the Federal Police and State Police formally.

Under the proposal, the National Assembly would be empowered to prescribe the structure, organisation, administration and powers of the Federal Police, while also providing the framework and guidelines for the establishment of state police services.

The bill stipulates that no state police formation shall commence operations unless it is established through a law passed by the relevant State House of Assembly and certified as meeting national minimum standards prescribed by an Act of the National Assembly.

It further provides that until a state police force becomes operational, the Federal Police will continue to perform policing functions in that state.

The amendment also seeks to limit federal interference in the operations of state police.

Under the proposal, the Federal Police may only intervene in a state’s internal security affairs in cases of a complete breakdown of law and order, upon the request of a governor, or where a state police force becomes unable to function due to administrative, financial or other challenges.

The bill also proposes significant changes to the appointment and command structure of the police.

Under the amended Section 215, the Inspector-General of Police would be appointed by the President on the advice of the National Police Council from among serving members of the Federal Police, subject to confirmation by the National Assembly.

Similarly, a State Commissioner of Police would be appointed by a governor on the advice of the National Police Council from among serving members of the State Police, subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly.

The proposal empowers governors to issue lawful directives to State Commissioners of Police on matters relating to public safety and order.

However, where a commissioner believes such directives are unlawful or inconsistent with accepted policing standards, the matter may be referred to the National Police Council, whose decision would be final.

The bill also amends Section 84 of the Constitution by replacing references to the “National Police Council and the Federal Police Service Commission” with the “Nigeria Police Council and the Police Service Commission.”

The proposal, however, will still require approval by the Senate and endorsement by at least two-thirds of the State Houses of Assembly, assented to by the President before it can become part of the Constitution.

Imo Govt Apprehends Fake Heavy-Duty Vehicle Taskforce Impersonating Ministry of Transport Staff

2026-06-11T12:34:47.799+01:00

The Imo State Government has apprehended a group of individuals allegedly impersonating officials of the Ministry of Transport and operating an illegal heavy-duty vehicle taskforce across major roads in the state.

The suspects were arrested in the early hours of today at about 4:20 a.m. by the Governor's Monitoring and Compliance Team led by Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, following credible intelligence received by the government.

The operation was carried out simultaneously along the Onitsha-Owerri Road, Port Harcourt-Owerri Road, and Aba-Owerri Road, where the fake taskforce members were reportedly extorting motorists while falsely presenting themselves as government officials.

The impersonators were rounded up by the monitoring team and will be handed over to the relevant law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution.

The Imo State Government has urged residents to continue providing actionable intelligence to the appropriate authorities, assuring that prompt action will always be taken to safeguard the public and protect the integrity of government institutions.

FIFA World Cup Starts Today In Mexico , Canada, USA ( All The Gists )

2026-06-11T12:09:04.345+01:00

The World Cup 2026 starts on Thursday, kicking off the biggest tournament in football history across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

A record 48 teams will play 104 matches over the next six weeks, with millions of fans turning their attention to the opening ceremony, the first games and the storylines set to define the tournament.

The opening ceremony at Mexico City Stadium in Mexico City begins at 11am local time (17:00 GMT) and will feature a celebration of Mexican and Latin music.

Mexican singer Alejandro Fernandez will perform the national anthem, joined by artists including Mana, Los Angeles Azules, Lila Downs and Belinda. Colombia’s J Balvin and Venezuela’s Danny Ocean are also set to appear, while Shakira headlines the ceremony alongside Nigeria’s Burna Boy with the debut performance of “Dai Dai”, the tournament’s official song.

Hosts Mexico then face South Africa at the same venue at 1pm local time (19:00 GMT).

Later, South Korea take on Czechia at Estadio Guadalajara (Estadio Akron) in Guadalajara, with kickoff scheduled for 8pm local time (02:00 GMT on June 12).

Mexico are the clear favourites to beat South Africa in the World Cup opener, with the Opta supercomputer giving the hosts a 66.3 percent chance of victory based on 10,000 pre-match simulations.

South Africa are assigned a 14.3 percent probability of winning, while a draw occurs in 19.4 percent of the simulations.

Looking beyond the opening fixture, Opta also projects Mexico to finish top of Group A, ahead of South Korea, Czechia and South Africa.

El Tri will be led by veteran striker Raul Jimenez and 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora, while goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa is set to make history by playing in a record sixth World Cup. South Africa, meanwhile, are appearing at the tournament for the fourth time and for the first time since hosting it in 2010.

Teams playing in Mexico will compete at some of the highest-altitude venues in the tournament. Mexico City Stadium is located about 7,300 feet (2,225 metres) above sea level, while Guadalajara sits at roughly 5,138 feet (1,566 metres).

South Korea are slight favourites against Czechia, with Opta assigning them a 42.9 percent chance of victory compared with Czechia’s 31.1 percent.

The likelihood of a draw stands at 26.0 percent, suggesting a closely contested match.

In the wider Group A outlook, South Korea have a 70 percent chance of reaching the knockout stages and a 21.3 percent probability of winning the group, while Czechia are given a 64.3 percent chance of advancing and a 17.9 percent chance of topping the standings.

While the opening ceremony and first matches take centre stage, they are far from the only stories defining this World Cup. From immigration controversies and soaring ticket prices to new technology and late injury setbacks, here’s what else is making headlines as the tournament gets under way.

Somali referee Omar Artan receives hero’s welcome after World Cup ban

Artan received a hero’s welcome in Mogadishu after being denied entry to the US ahead of the tournament. Hundreds of supporters waving Somali flags gathered to greet the referee, who had been set to become the first Somali official to officiate at a World Cup.

US authorities stopped him at Miami International Airport, citing unspecified “vetting concerns”, and FIFA later removed him from the referees’ roster. Artan told The New York Times he was questioned for 11 hours before being sent back.

Despite the setback, he remained hopeful. “I promise you, God willing, that I will attend the next one,” he told supporters.

Sky-high ticket prices anger fans

World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be the most expensive in the tournament’s history, with soaring ticket prices, costly transport and accommodation, and concerns over US immigration policies prompting some fans to reconsider attending.

FIFA introduced dynamic pricing for the first time, meaning ticket costs rise with demand. With more than 500 million ticket requests submitted during the initial sales phase, some seats have reached eye-watering prices.

“Already there’s so much inflation. I have to pay so much already for the gas to get here, and now even more for tickets, you know, that’s so awful,” a football fan told Al Jazeera.

“That definitely means I won’t be able to go and I think a lot of people are going to feel very jaded for that. So I really hope they can re-evaluate it or at least give some kind of a discount for people who are really huge fans,” she added.

When tickets first went on sale in December, prices ranged from $140 to $8,680 for the final. By April, FIFA had raised the top price to $10,990, nearly seven times the $1,550 maximum outlined in North America’s original bid.

New tech rules

FIFA and the International Football Association Board (IFAB) have introduced a series of changes aimed at speeding up play and improving decision-making.

These include upgraded semiautomated offside technology, a smart match ball fitted with sensors that send real-time data to VAR, visible five-second countdowns to discourage time-wasting on throw-ins and goal kicks, stricter substitution rules and expanded VAR powers to review clear errors involving second yellow cards, mistaken identity and incorrectly awarded corner kicks.

World Cup injury setbacks

The Netherlands have been dealt a blow with Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber ruled out after failing to recover from a groin injury. The Dutch FA said the 24-year-old was not fit enough to cope with the demands of the tournament.

Brazil have also lost a key defender, with AS Roma right back Wesley ruled out after suffering a left thigh injury in a friendly against Egypt. He has been replaced by Atalanta midfielder Ederson ahead of Brazil’s Group C opener against Morocco.

Why are drinks breaks controversial?

FIFA has introduced mandatory three-minute hydration breaks midway through each half of all 104 World Cup games, saying the measure is necessary to protect players from extreme heat following concerns raised during last year’s Club World Cup in the United States.

Critics, however, argue the rule applies too broadly, even in cooler venues, and have accused FIFA of commercialising the stoppages after allowing broadcasters to air advertisements during the breaks.

Trump might not attend United States World Cup opener

President Donald Trump has not said whether he will attend the United States’s opening World Cup match against Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday. However, several people familiar with the tournament planning said they do not currently expect him to be there, according to a report by Politico, although his plans could still change.

The US government will still be represented at the match. The State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend, along with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.

Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum won’t attend either

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum won’t be using the ticket FIFA gave her for the opening match. Instead, it went to Yolett Cervantes Cuaquehua, a 21-year-old from Veracruz who won a contest by showing off her football juggling skills.

The challenge invited young women to keep the ball up for one minute on camera, and Sheinbaum also awarded tickets to three other winners.

“They are the pride of Mexico. They will not represent the president, or the head of government, they will represent Mexico,” Sheinbaum said at a news conference to give away the ticket to Cervantes Cuaquehua

World Cup celebrations begin amid protests in Mexico City

As Mexico gets ready to host the opening match, protests are taking place across the capital. Teachers from the CNTE union, along with transport workers, farmers and families of missing people, have taken to the streets to demand better pay, pension changes and action on longstanding issues.

Some demonstrations have affected World Cup preparations, with protesters blocking roads leading to the Estadio Azteca and removing some tournament installations.

Police block an avenue to prevent protesting teachers from marching to the stadium that will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup in Mexico City [Eduardo Verdugo/AP]

And beyond football: Why is this World Cup so politically charged?

The 2026 World Cup arrives carrying more baggage than most.

Alongside the excitement of the opening matches are concerns about immigration crackdowns, travel restrictions, the wars in Gaza and Iran, and the close relationship between FIFA boss Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump.

Journalist Ashish Malhotra, speaking to Al Jazeera’s The Take, argued that Trump has placed himself at the centre of the tournament. “One reason, Donald Trump. He’s really put himself front and centre for this World Cup,” he said, adding that the US president is using the event as a distraction from other crises.

Malhotra was equally critical of football’s governing body. “FIFA is 100 percent a political actor and it has been for close to a century,” he said, pointing to the organisation’s history of aligning itself with leaders accused of human rights abuses.

And yet, despite the contradictions, billions are still expected to tune in. “Sports are a bit of a drug. It’s a bit of an addiction,” Malhotra said. “The way that a World Cup brings people together is why people get sucked in.” It is perhaps the tournament’s greatest paradox: even amid controversy, the pull of the beautiful game remains difficult to resist.

FIFA chief says his organisation cannot rule on government policies after a Somali referee was denied entry into the US.

Police Nab 22-year-old Armed Robbery Suspect In Lagos

2026-06-11T09:48:18.838+01:00

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 22-year-old suspected armed robber and cultist, Odeshola Afeez, following several complaints over his activities in the state.

Afeez was arrested based on information that he was harassing passers-by and causing panic within the Lagos community. Following a search, a locally-made pistol, cartridge and local charms were recovered from him.

Also, preliminary investigation revealed the suspect as a notorious cultist who had allegedly been terrorising residents and engaging in activities capable of disturbing public peace. Further findings indicated that he had been evading arrest before his eventual apprehension by police operatives.

Commending the prompt response and professionalism of the operatives involved in the operation, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to combating cultism, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the police with credible and timely information through the emergency lines.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Police Command has debunked what it described as a false and misleading report that schools in Bosso, Kpakungu, Sabon-Wuse and Lambata local councils were attacked by hoodlums.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, stated that a visit to all the schools mentioned in those areas proved that no such attack occurred. He urged the public to disregard the information as false, and possibly originated from mischief makers to cause panic and fear among the public and in school environments.

Abiodun said an investigation has commenced to unravel the source of the report and arrest the mischief makers.

The Commissioner of Police, Adamu Elleman, had earlier directed divisional police officers to work closely with school administrators, in line with the school protection initiatives, for the safety of students, staff and the community.

Senate Moves To Expand Appellate, Federal Courts Amid Backlog Concerns

2026-06-11T09:43:42.366+01:00

Nigerian Senate yesterday moved to confront growing pressure on the nation’s judiciary with far-reaching legislative proposals.

The proposals aim to expand the capacity of two of the country’s most critical courts.

The upper chamber is considering amendments that would increase the number of Justices of the Court of Appeal from 70 to 110, and expand the Federal High Court from 70 to 90 judges, in what lawmakers describe as an urgent response to an increasingly overburdened justice system.

The proposals, contained in two separate bills sponsored by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, scaled second reading during plenary with unanimous support, marking a rare bipartisan agreement on judicial reform.

Leading debate on the Court of Appeal (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (SB. 991), Bamidele painted a picture of a judiciary struggling to keep pace with Nigeria’s expanding legal landscape.

He told colleagues that the Court of Appeal—established under Section 237 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as the pivotal link between trial courts and the Supreme Court—was facing a workload that had grown beyond its structural capacity.

The appellate court, which handles appeals from the Federal High Court, State High Courts, National Industrial Court, election tribunals, Sharia Courts of Appeal and Customary Courts, has in recent years become the central battleground for Nigeria’s most consequential disputes.

According to Bamidele, the surge in cases is driven by a combination of population growth, expanding economic activity, rising electoral litigation, constitutional disputes, and increasingly complex commercial transactions.

He warned that without urgent intervention, the delays in appellate justice would deepen, undermining public confidence in the legal system and slowing down the final resolution of critical national disputes.

If passed into law, the bills would increase the Court of Appeal bench to 110 justices, adding 40 new judicial officers, while the Federal High Court would receive an additional 20 judges, bringing its strength to 90.

Meanwhile, the Federal High Court will commence its 2026 yearly vacation across all its divisions from July 27 to September 11, 2026, with special vacation courts designated in four key judicial divisions to hear urgent and time-sensitive matters during the recess.

This was disclosed in a statement yesterday by the Director of Information of the Federal High Court, Dr Catherine Oby Christopher, on behalf of the Chief Judge, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho.

The statement said the yearly break was approved pursuant to Order 46, Rule 4(d) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019. It added that despite the vacation, judicial services would continue for cases requiring immediate attention through designated vacation courts in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Enugu.

How Ex Minister Sirika Allegedly Used Ethiopian Airlines To Siphon N2bn

2026-06-11T07:41:25.053+01:00

The 12th Prosecution Witness, PW12, Christopher Odofin, in the trial of the former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Abubakar Sirika, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, told Justice S.C. Oriji of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court Abuja, how Sirika allegedly passed off an aircraft belonging to Ethiopian Airline as that of the promised Nigeria Air by the government of the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

The decoy aircraft, adorned with the livery of the promised Nigeria Air, found its way on the tarmac of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on May 27, 2023, being three days to the expiration of the tenure of the Buhari government and was flown back to Addis Ababa in the morning of May 29, 2023, being the handover date to the successor government.

Hadi Sirika is facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on amended six-count, bordering on alleged abuse of office and misappropriation of public funds to the tune of over N2 billion, alongside his daughter, Fatima Hadi Sirika, son-in-law, Hamma Jalal Sule, and Al Buraq Global Investment Limited.

The contract for the setting up of Nigeria Air was awarded to Tianaero Nigeria Limited, belonging to Gabriel Tilmann, a close associate and friend of the former minister.

Reading from a portion of contract agreement with Ethiopian Airline, the witness, an investigator with Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC said “The aircraft will depart from Addis Ababa (ADD) late evening of May 26, 2023 for it to be positioned early morning of May 27, 2023 at the Abuja (ABV) airport. The aircraft will stay in ABV airport for static display of Nigeria Air livery until May 28, 2023. The aircraft will leave ABV airport early morning on May, 29, 2023. The chartered flight will be operated by the Ethiopian Airline crew in Ethiopian Airline uniform. The Federal Government of Nigeria and Nigeria Air may put together local models who will be in Nigeria Air uniforms to pose for ceremonial pictures. The models may come to Addis Ababa so they may fly with the chartered flight to ABV.”

The witness told the court that the display of the aircraft in Abuja International Airport was deliberately planned to coincide with the end of the first defendant’s tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development on May 29, 2023 and to pass the aircraft off as the actualization of his promise of the return of Nigeria Air. After the less than 72 hours display of the aircraft, he stated that the Nigeria Air logo was removed from the aircraft and flown back to Ethiopian Airlines in Addis Ababa.

The witness further disclosed that the investigating team was also able to ascertain that Ethiopian Airlines entered into a charter arrangement for the static display of the Nigeria Air livery for a duration of just three days, beginning from May 27 to May 29, 2023 based on information and documents received from the airline following a letter from it, dated June 12, 2023, in response to the EFCC’s request for information regarding Nigeria Air. And that though the purpose of the contract was for the establishment of Nigeria Air, the charter agreement with Ethiopian Airlines was entered on May 24, 2023, five days to the expiration of the defendant’s tenure for just a static display of the Nigeria Air logo on an aircraft.

All the documents tendered in evidence by the prosecution were shown to have been duly signed, authorized, and accompanied by certificates of identification and were not objected to by any of the counsels to the four defendants.

Among the exhibits is a compact disk containing a voice note from the first defendant, Hadi Sirika, marked Exhibit 37, which the prosecution counsel applied to be played in the court at the next adjourned date.

Further in his testimony, the witness told the court told that though the contract for the start-up of Nigeria Air, which was awarded to Tianaero Nigeria Limited for over N299 million on April 4, 2022, saw a contract extension award to the company on October 17, 2022, to a sum, exceeding N599 million on the instructions and directives of the first defendant, based on his relationship with the company’s alter ego.

According to him “The investigating team arrived at this position when the phone of one Enitan Muyiwa Abel, who was a Permanent Secretary in the first defendant’s ministry was analysed, showing a voice note sent to the Permanent Secretary while the first defendant was in Spain instructing him to ensure that the contract was awarded to Tianaero Nigeria Limited.”

Justice Oriji adjourned the matter till June 17, 2026 for the continuation of the trial.

House of Representatives Releases Final Print of Constitution Amendment Bills Ahead Of Parliamentary Vote

2026-06-11T07:35:21.717+01:00

The House of Representatives has released the final print of the Constitution Alteration Bills scheduled for consideration and voting during plenary on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing review of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

The bills represent the culmination of several months of rigorous legislative work undertaken by the House Committee on Constitution Review, following the receipt and consideration of numerous Constitution amendment proposals from lawmakers, government institutions, professional bodies, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, and citizens across the country.

The review process involved extensive stakeholder engagement through zonal and national public hearings, consultative meetings, expert sessions, and town hall engagements held across the six geopolitical zones, ensuring broad-based citizen participation and input.

The Constitution Alteration Bills span critical thematic areas, including:

- Electoral Reforms

- Judicial Reforms

- Security and Policing

- Local Government Administration

- Inclusive Governance and Citizenship

- Legislature

- Devolution of Powers

- Human Rights

- Fiscal Reforms

- Strengthening of Institutions

- Traditional Institutions

- Creation of States and Local Governments

Download Final Print of Constitution Amendment Bills below:

bit.ly/HoRConstitutionBills

Of particular priority is the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to provide a constitutional framework for the establishment of State Police. The proposal has emerged as one of the most extensively debated reform initiatives in the current review cycle, attracting widespread public interest and stakeholder engagement across the federation.

The bill seeks to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture by creating an additional layer of policing, while providing constitutional safeguards, clearly defined operational frameworks, oversight mechanisms, and delineation of powers between federal and state policing authorities. Its consideration reflects the growing national consensus on the need for innovative and locally responsive approaches to addressing contemporary security challenges.

Commenting on the development, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR, described the release of the final print as a defining moment in the House's commitment to delivering a more responsive and effective constitutional framework for Nigeria.

According to him:

"The release of the final print of these Constitution Alteration Bills reflects the extensive consultations, careful scrutiny, and bipartisan collaboration that have characterised this reform process. These proposals embody the aspirations, concerns, and recommendations expressed by Nigerians from all walks of life.

"Of particular significance is the proposal on State Police, which responds to longstanding calls for a more effective and decentralised policing framework capable of addressing emerging security challenges across the federation. As the House prepares to vote, we remain guided by our constitutional responsibility to strengthen democratic governance, deepen federalism, promote inclusion, enhance security, and build institutions capable of meeting the demands of a modern and prosperous nation."

The House is expected to vote on the bills during plenary on Thursday, June 11, 2026, provided the constitutionally prescribed quorum is attained. Should the required quorum not be met, consideration and voting will be deferred to the next legislative day in accordance with the Constitution and the Standing Orders of the House.

The House of Representatives remains firmly committed to an open, inclusive, and transparent constitution review process and to advancing reforms that strengthen Nigeria's democratic institutions, promote national unity, improve governance outcomes, deepen citizen participation, and respond to the evolving needs and aspirations of the Nigerian people.

Friendly : Portugal Beats Super Eagles 2..1

2026-06-11T07:32:29.562+01:00

Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in an international friendly played at the Estádio Dr. Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria.

Portugal opened the scoring in the 23rd minute through Pedro Neto, who finished off a cutback from Diogo Dalot.

Nigeria responded strongly and equalised in the 36th minute through Akor Adams, who powered his way past the Portuguese defence before slotting the ball beyond goalkeeper Diogo Costa.

The first half ended 1-1, with the Super Eagles showing good fight against the star-studded Portuguese side.

Portugal regained the lead in the second half after substitute Francisco Conceição struck in the 74th minute with a brilliant finish from the right side.

Nigeria goalkeeper Maduka Okoye made important saves late in the game to keep the scoreline respectable.

Cristiano Ronaldo featured for Portugal but failed to get on the scoresheet before he was substituted in the second half.

The result gives Portugal victory in their final warm-up match before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while Nigeria will take positives from the performance despite the defeat.

Vice Principal Killed As Army Foiled Attempt To Abduct School Pupils In Kogi

2026-06-11T07:24:43.889+01:00

Statement by Nigerian Army

TROOPS OF 12 BRIGADE FOIL TERRORISTS’ ATTEMPT TO ABDUCT SCHOOL CHILDREN IN KOGI STATE

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army under 2 Division Nigerian Army have foiled an attempted abduction of pupils at Iluke Community in Kabba Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, thwarting the plans of terrorists who disguised themselves in military uniforms to carry out the attack.

The successful operation was conducted on 10 June 2026 following credible information provided by vigilant members of the community who alerted troops on patrol to the activities of the terrorists within the area.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the troops immediately mobilised and advanced to the community to prevent the criminals from achieving their objective.

On arrival, troops discovered that the terrorists had already assembled pupils of Iluke Primary School with the intention of abducting them.

Without delay, the troops engaged the terrorists, compelling them to abandon their mission and flee the area. During the encounter, one terrorist was neutralised while several others escaped with gunshot injuries upon the approach and engagement by the troops.

Sadly, before the arrival of troops, the terrorists had killed a teacher and a resident of the community. Their actions further underscore the criminal and inhumane nature of the terrorists who continue to target innocent civilians.

The prompt response of the troops prevented what could have been a large scale abduction of school children and undoubtedly saved many lives. The operation also reflects the commitment, vigilance and professionalism of troops of 12 Brigade in safeguarding lives and protecting vulnerable communities across the Brigade’s area of responsibility.

Troops are currently in pursuit of the fleeing bandits. Additionally, considering the interconnected nature of the community to adjoining Kwara and Niger State, other security outfits in the neighbouring state have been intimated to block fleeing bandits.

Other measures aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action, reassuring residents and preventing any further attacks have been emplaced. Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

HASSAN ABDULLAHI

Lieutenant

Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations

12 Brigade Nigerian Army

10 June 2026

LASU Reappoints Registrar, New Bursar

2026-06-11T07:09:57.328+01:00

The Governing Council of Lagos State University (LASU), at its emergency meeting held on Wednesday, 10 June 2026, has approved the reappointment of Mr Emmanuel A. Fanu as Registrar and Secretary to Council, and the appointment of Mr Olabisi Yusuf as the new Bursar of the University.

Both appointments take effect from Thursday, 2 July 2026, for a four-year tenure.

Mr Fanu, a staff member since 1999, previously served in several administrative roles and as Acting Registrar between June 2021 and February 2022 before his substantive appointment in 2022. He is an alumnus of LASU with qualifications in Science Education, Public Administration, and a Diploma in Law.

Mr Yusuf, with over 20 years of experience in university financial management, has served in various capacities within LASU’s Bursary Department, including Deputy Bursar at ACEITSE. He is a Fellow of ICAN and Associate Member of CITN, with HND, BSc, and MSc in Accounting.

Notably, both appointees trace their roots to Badagry, a community widely regarded for producing distinguished professionals and administrators contributing meaningfully to the growth of Lagos State.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, congratulated both appointees and wished them a successful tenure.

Gov Adeleke Escapes Death As Stage Collapses At Osun Accord Party Rally

2026-06-11T06:50:22.141+01:00

There was palpable fear in Osun State on Wednesday following the sudden collapse of a podium where guests, including Governor Ademola Adeleke, were seated at a rally held in Ijebu-Jesa.

In a 30-second video showed the moment the podium caved in, Adeleke, Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, and the spokesperson of the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, were among those on the platform when the incident occurred.

In the video, musical performances were ongoing when the event anchor brought the session to a close and was about to announce the next item on the programme before the podium collapsed.

A source at the event, who spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to comment, said the incident disrupted proceedings.

He, however, added that the programme later resumed after security personnel evacuated those involved from the rubble.

“The incident happened. The event is the inauguration of the Imole canvassers for Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency. The event was held in Ijebu-Jesa, and the crowd was a bit much.

“The governor and some members of his cabinet were seated in that part of the podium that collapsed. No casualty. The event resumed, and the governor addressed the gathering after the incident,” he said.

When contacted for reaction, the Deputy Spokesperson to the Governor, Oladele Bamiji, said the incident was not as serious as being portrayed.

“The event thereafter went on smoothly with the governor and members of his cabinet. No injuries.

“Had there been any fatal accident, the event would not have continued. There were no casualties. The governor, after leaving the venue, went to another event in Odo-Otin Local Government,” Bamiji said.

NCAA Grounds Private Jet For Landing On Asaba Expressway

2026-06-11T06:38:15.428+01:00

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has suspended the operational permit of an airline operator after one of its aircraft reportedly landed on a roadway near Asaba, Delta State, and later departed the scene without obtaining regulatory approval, an act the regulators described as a violation of aviation regulations.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, saying the CAA had received preliminary reports concerning an occurrence involving a privately operated aircraft in the vicinity of Asaba.

However, the regulator refused to mention either the operators or the airline’s name.

According to the Authority, the incident began when the aircraft encountered difficulties while attempting to land at Asaba Airport.

The regulator further disclosed that following the aborted landing attempt, the aircraft touched down on a roadway in the Ogwashi-Uku area near Asaba, an unusual development that immediately drew the attention of aviation authorities and local residents.

The NCAA said, “Available information indicates that the aircraft conducted a missed approach at approximately 0743 local time while attempting to land at Asaba, “Subsequently, the aircraft reportedly landed on a roadway in the Ogwashi-Uku area near Asaba. Reports received from personnel at the scene indicate that all occupants safely exited the aircraft and were transported to Asaba by road.”

Despite the emergency situation, the NCAA said there were no casualties, noting that the aircraft had only four crew members on board.

“The aircraft had four (4) crew members on board. At this time, no injuries to passengers or crew have been reported,” the Authority said.

Providing details of the alleged incident, the Authority stated, “Preliminary information available to the Authority indicates that the aircraft subsequently departed the location at approximately 1102 GMT and returned to Lagos without obtaining the requisite regulatory approval.”

The NCAA further revealed that air traffic authorities were not informed before the flight departed.

Describing the action as a clear infraction of existing regulations, the Authority stressed that the unauthorised departure is now under investigation.

“The Authority has also been informed that Air Traffic Control was notified only after the aircraft had become airborne. This action constitutes a violation of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) and is currently under investigation by the Authority,” the statement noted.

As a consequence, the NCAA said it moved swiftly to prevent any further operation of the aircraft pending the outcome of investigations.

The Authority also announced disciplinary and regulatory measures against those involved in the operation of the flight.

“Upon its arrival in Lagos, the NCAA immediately grounded the aircraft pending the outcome of its investigation.

“The flight crew have been placed under regulatory review while the NCAA conducts further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the occurrence and the subsequent unauthorised departure of the aircraft,” the statement said.

“In the interim, the NCAA has suspended the operator’s permit for Non-Commercial Flight,” the Authority disclosed.

The NCAA said it had notified the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and was collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and the operator, to determine the full circumstances surrounding the occurrence.

“The NCAA has formally notified the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau of the occurrence and is coordinating with relevant aviation stakeholders, including the operator and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement said.

The Authority added that investigators would scrutinise all relevant records linked to the aircraft and operator.

Achimugu stated, “The Authority will review all operational, airworthiness, maintenance, and flight-related records as part of its statutory responsibilities and will take further enforcement action in accordance with applicable aviation regulations.”

Police Kill Two Kidnappers , Rescue Five Victims In Abuja

2026-06-10T16:23:10.016+01:00

The FCT Police Command has successfully rescued five kidnapped victims following an intensive joint rescue operation conducted in the Byazhin area of the Federal Capital Territory.

Acting on recent kidnapping incidents within Paze community in Byazhin area, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, PhD, FCAI, personally led a clearance operation with a team comprising operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the NPF Intelligence Response Team (IRT), and Kubwa Area Command, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups.

On 9th June, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., the joint security team launched an intensive search, clearance, and rescue operation across Paze and Byazhin communities.

During the operation, the team engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun duel, resulting in the neutralization of two suspects and the arrest of two others identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, while other gang members fled into nearby hills with varying degrees of bullet wounds.

During the operation, the police team also recovered two AK-47 rifles with magazines. The Command therefore calls on healthcare practitioners, private and public hospitals, and members of the public to promptly report any individual presenting gunshot related injuries or seeking treatment under suspicious circumstances.

The sustained pressure mounted on the criminal elements forced them to abandon five hostages, who were promptly rescued unharmed.

The rescued victims have since been taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention, while efforts are ongoing to reunite them with their families. Meanwhile, search operations continue across the general area and adjoining communities aimed at apprehending the fleeing suspects and dismantling the criminal network.

The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery, resilience, and professionalism displayed by the operatives and supporting local security volunteers during the operation. He reaffirmed the Command’s resolve to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the Federal Capital Territory.

Members of the public are encouraged to remain security conscious and report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 08032003913, 07057337653.

Vigilante Leader Abducts 13 Year Old Girl In Anambra , Joins Search Party

2026-06-10T14:10:44.406+01:00

Tension is mounting in Nanka community, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, following the arrest of a high-ranking vigilante official over the alleged abduction and serial defil+ement of a 13 y3ar 0ld school girl.

The suspect, Chimuche Onyeanuna, who serves as the Second-in-Command of the Nanka Vigilante Group, is currently being held in a secret location amid allegations that influential community leaders and local security actors are plotting a cover-up to grant him a “soft landing.”

The victim, a junior secondary school student and daughter of a local commercial tricycle (Keke Napep) rider, Mr. Solomon Obodoaku, went missing for over four days last week. Desperate to find his daughter, Mr. Obodoaku formally reported the disappearance at the local vigilante office, directly to Onyeanuna (the accused officer.)

In a shocking twist of betrayal, Onyeanuna reportedly joined the community’s active search parties and manhunt for the misssing girl, all while secretly keeping her captive inside his own residence.

Community sources revealed that as pressure and searches mounted within the village, the suspect panicked and quietly released the traum+atised teenager, ordering her to return home.

Upon her return, an intensive interrogation by her distraught father, the 13 year old victim detailed how she was kept locked inside Onyeanuna’s house for nearly five days, prevented from stepping outside or attending school, while being subjected to repeated sexuual assault.

To back her claims, the minor provided precise forensic descriptions of the inner rooms of the commander’s house, the layout of his kitchen, unique items hidden under his bed, and noted that her personal belongings were still trapped in his room. Furthermore, she revealed that the very clothes she wore home were provided to her by the suspect.

Following the revelation, vigilante operatives apprehended Onyeanuna. During a preliminary interrogation, the suspect vehemently denied the allegations until he was confronted with the victim’s graphic and accurate description of his home.

He was subsequently bound and detained at the Oka Hall security post in Agbiligba village, Nanka.

However, news of the horrific crime triggered an immediate wave of rage among local youths, who surrounded the security post en masse, threatening to burn the facility down unless the suspect was handed over for jungle justice.

To prevent a total breakdown of law and order, a former vigilante officer reportedly whisked Onyeanuna away from the irate mob to an undisclosed, hidden location.

Again, EFCC Arraigns Blessing CEO Over Fresh Alleged N13m Fraud In Lagos

2026-06-10T14:04:50.294+01:00

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Lagos Zonal Directorate 2, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, arraigned a social media influencer, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka,( a.k.a Blessing CEO) for alleged N13,000,000 (Thirteen Million Naira) Cancer fraud before Justice Yelim Bogoro of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The EFCC filed a fresh six-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and retaining the proceeds to the tune of N13,000,000 against her, following the receipt of several petitions from individuals and groups, including the Nigeria Cancer Society.

The petitioners allegedly made donations to the defendant after her social media posts claiming that she was battling Stage 4 breast cancer and seeking financial support for treatment.

She was, however, later discovered to have allegedly falsified the document she presented to members of the public.

One of the counts reads:

"That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA (A.K.A. BLESSING CEO), female, adult, sometime in 2026 in Lagos State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did obtain the total sum of N13,000,000 (Thirteen Million Naira) from unsuspecting citizens under the false pretence of being diagnosed with a terminal illness, to wit: left breast lump and invasive ductal carcinoma with lobular feature, which representation you knew to be false, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006."

Another count reads: “ That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA (A.K.A BLESSING CEO) (female), adult, sometime in 2026 in Lagos State within the Jurisdiction of this honourable court, knowingly forged a medical report titled “Histopathology/Cytopathology Report”, purported to have emanated from Xinus Medical Diagnostics knowing same to be false with intent to gain advantage for yourself from unsuspecting citizens and you, thereby committed and offence contrary to and punishable under section 1(2) (c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, CAP M17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to her.

Following her plea, the prosecution counsel H. U. KofarNaisa, asked the court for a trial date and prayed that the defendant be remanded in a correctional centre.

Responding, counsel to the defendant, Stanley Ofoegbu, prayed the court for a short adjournment to enable him file a bail application on behalf of the defendant.

Justice Bogoro, consequently, adjourned the matter till September 24, 2026, for the commencement of trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded in a Correctional centre.

Man Tied For Allegedly Stealing Fish From Pond In Bayelsa

2026-06-10T07:31:00.615+01:00

A man was nabbed for allegedly stealing fish from a pond in Okodi community, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The suspect was reportedly caught on Tuesday morning, June 9, 2026.

Community members hung the stolen fish on the suspect’s neck and tied him to a pole as he begged for forgiveness.

A Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on New Media, Oviezemufam Sasime also shared the photos on Facebook.

“The greatest fisherman that ever liveth from Okodi community in Ogbia LGA,” he captioned the post

6-year Single Term Push Raises Elongation Fears

2026-06-10T06:46:08.896+01:00

The plan by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to sponsor a bill seeking to introduce a single six-year tenure for presidents and governors after the 2027 general elections has heightened fears about plans to introduce a constitutional amendment to allow incumbents stay longer in office

Senate Leader Bamidele in an interview with journalists in his office, stated that the proposed legislation would be among the first bills he intends to introduce when the next Senate is inaugurated.

He said if the legislation sails though, it would enable elected leaders to focus on governance rather than re-election campaigns as the current two-term arrangement often compels office holders to devote a significant portion of their first term to political calculations and preparations for re-election, adding that a single tenure would eliminate distractions associated with seeking a second term.

But reactions that trailed the statement has indicated that Nigerians view the proposal as more of a plan to elongate the tenure of those in office who would have been serving their second terms and are constitutionally barred from seeking same offices.

Though Opeyemi did not say if the proposed bill would commence with those in office, most respondents fear that it may not be altruistic and if it sails through, those in office would take advantage of it.

There are, however, those who said the proposal would make office holders concentrate more on governance rather than in the politics of second term.

Bill will require extensive constitutional amendment to become law – Lawyer

A Kano-based lawyer, Barrister Kamilu Ahmad-Paki, said the proposed bill seeking to establish a single six-year term for presidents and governors in Nigeria will require extensive constitutional amendments before it can become law.

Speaking on the development, Ahmad-Paki confirmed that Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele intends to support the bill in the 11th National Assembly.

He noted that the current provisions of the 1999 Constitution clearly stipulate a four-year tenure, renewable once, for both the president and state governors.

“Section 137 of the 1999 Constitution establishes the office of the president and sets out that the president shall spend a four-year term in office, with the possibility of re-election for another four years. Similarly, Section 180 provides that governors shall serve four years and may be re-elected once. If this bill is to see the light of day, these sections must be altered,” he explained.

Ahmad-Paki further pointed out that Section 182 bars governors from serving more than two terms, while Section 137(1)(b) places the same restriction on presidents. He stressed that any attempt to introduce a single six-year tenure would, therefore, require amending these provisions.

He added that even the tenure of local government councils, as provided under Section 7, may need to be reviewed to align with the proposed changes.

According to him, Section 9 of the Constitution also sets a high threshold for amendments, requiring the support of two-thirds of members of the National Assembly and approval by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly.

“If that majority is not achieved, the bill will not see the light of day,” Ahmad-Paki concluded.

Speaking on the matter, Abeni Mohammed (SAN) said some lawmakers, including Bamidele, are acting out of self-preservation rather than national interest.

According to him, the push is driven by political survival ahead of possible rejection by the electorate.

“They are looking for self-survival before they are booted out naturally or by a violent revolt,” he said.

He expressed concern that insecurity in the country is being sidelined by what he described as “political distractions” in the Senate.

“The issue of insecurity is more important to me than all the nonsense coming out from the Senate. School children and their teachers have been kidnapped for days and are still in the forest, and the only thing they are talking about is seeking provision for a single term. Do they even deserve one term?

“What have they done since they have been there except passing useless bills and approving loans, both foreign and domestic, for the president,” he added.

Also reacting, Salam Jawondo (SAN) said the proposal by the Senate leader would require a constitutional amendment supported by a two-thirds majority of the National Assembly and state assemblies.

He noted that the move would likely fail if it does not reflect the priority of other lawmakers.

On concerns that it could amount to a backdoor attempt at extending the presidential tenure, he stressed that the constitution is clear that no one can serve more than two terms as president, unless the relevant provisions are amended.

“I doubt such an amendment will scale through,” he said, adding that the country is currently facing more urgent challenges such as insecurity and worsening hardship.

He warned against political distractions, saying governance should focus on resolving national problems rather than tenure debates.

“My advice is that every politician should concentrate more effort on solving the prevailing problems, especially insecurity,” he added.

On his part, a Niger-based political scientist, Dr Kamar Hamza, said the proposal may be well-intentioned, but could also be politically motivated.

“Who knows, maybe he is being used as a conduit by politicians to actualise their plans. There may be some hidden agenda,” he said.

‘Six-year single term will reduce election cost, allow tough decisions’

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Sunusi Musa, said the proposed introduction of a single six-year tenure for presidents and governors could reduce election costs and enable leaders to take difficult but necessary decisions without the pressure of seeking re-election.

Speaking in an interview with our reporter last night, Musa described the proposal as part of the constitutional evolution process, stressing that Nigerians, through their elected representatives, have the right to alter the constitution whenever the need arises.

“This is not the first time that the issue is coming up,” he said. “If you may recall, President Jonathan proposed something like that, which he clearly said he would not be a beneficiary of. But it was rejected by Nigerians at that time,” he said.

He noted that constitutional amendments have remained a feature of Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999.

“The constitution is an evolving document. The people that are governed by the constitution have the right, through their representatives at both national and state assemblies, to look at it and see if there are things that need to be amended,” he said.

Musa argued that a six-year single term could significantly reduce the frequency and cost of elections.

“If we look at it critically, it will reduce the cost of elections. The money that you normally spend in eight years can only be spent in 12 years if you make it six years. So, it means that you have reduced the cost of election by four years in two terms,” he said.

According to him, the arrangement could also improve governance by freeing office holders from electoral calculations.

“Maybe it will give those in power the concentration to do what is right because when somebody is concerned with running for a second term, there are things he is supposed to do which he will be thinking of the consequences because of his second term.

“What I am saying is, leadership requires taking painful but necessary decisions. Most politicians are prevented from making such decisions because they are considering elections,” he added.

On whether current office holders could benefit from the proposed arrangement if it becomes law, the constitutional lawyer said the answer would depend on the wording of the amendment.

“It is for the new alteration to clearly state that any person that has been a governor or president for eight years is precluded from benefiting,” he said.

He warned that failure to include such a provision could create room for incumbents to seek an additional six-year term.

Reflecting on former President Goodluck Jonathan’s failed proposal, Musa said public mistrust contributed to its rejection.

“The mistrust was the thinking that it was going to be done for him to do four years and then stick on a six-year term. That was what killed the entire thing,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to examine the current proposal objectively, adding, “Let us look at it critically. Politicians should be statesmen and critically examine it. Rejecting it simply because we do not like the face of the person bringing it is not the right approach,” he said.

Musa added that constitutionally, the amendment is feasible if it secures the required support of two-thirds of the National Assembly and at least 24 state Houses of Assembly before presidential assent.

Also commenting on the issue, Barrister Morakinyo Ogele, a constitutional lawyer said it may be a guise to elongate the tenure of the president and the governors.

“You know, the president is in control of everything now. It is another avenue for tenure elongation for Tinubu and the governors. It’s just a strategy for tenure elongation.

“So, let me tell you, we are fed up with them. We don’t believe in them anymore. They are just there doing what they like. It’s a strategy. We have become the national house of APC, period”, he said.

Ogele said he doubts if the proposed single term of 6 years will see the light of day, saying those proposing the amendment are not even sure they will win in the coming general election. He added that though the National Assembly possesses the powers to amend the constitution, they should do it with caution.

Daily Trust

Lady Apprehended For Throwing Her Baby Into River

2026-06-10T06:35:16.779+01:00

A middle aged lady has been arrested in Delta State for throwing her baby girl into a river

The lady who was seen in a trending video confessed throwing her baby into the river after she was instructed by a prophet

According to her , the prophet informed her that the child was the architect of all her problems and the only solution was to dispose of her

She took her to the river and dumped her , fishermen who saw the sad incident quickly apprehended her and on interrogation, she confessed to the crime

She told them she is a native of Benin City in Edo State

The fishermen were still searching for the corpse of the baby as at the time of this report

How NSCDC Officer Was Killed, Daughter Abducted In Kogi

2026-06-10T06:22:03.904+01:00

Armed men suspected to be bandits have reportedly killed a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Mr. Ayo Olukotun, and abducted his daughter along with several other residents during an attack on Odo-Ere, the headquarters of Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Residents said the attack occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Monday when the gunmen stormed the community, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents, many of whom fled for safety.

Amid the confusion, the attackers reportedly forced their way to the residence of the NSCDC officer, shot him and abducted his daughter and other victims into a nearby forest.

A community source said Olukotun was rushed to a hospital shortly after the attack but was confirmed dead on arrival.

“Mr. Olukotun was taken to the hospital immediately after the incident, but sadly, he was confirmed dead on arrival. His remains have since been deposited in a mortuary,” the source said.

The Chairman of Yagba West Local Government Area, Hon. Tosin Olokun, condemned the attack, describing it as unfortunate and heartbreaking.

Olokun, who also serves as Chairman of the Kogi State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), said the death of the NSCDC officer was a painful loss to his family, the Odo-Ere community and the entire local government area.

“We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. On behalf of the government and people of Yagba West, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Ayo Olukotun, the people of Odo-Ere and all those affected by this attack,” he said in a statement issued on Tuesday through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Adeyemi Babarinde.

The council chairman urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing security agencies with credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities in the area.

Also reacting, the member representing Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide, described the incident as tragic, barbaric and a painful reminder of the security challenges confronting communities across the country.

“The news of the killing of Mr. Ayo and the abduction of his daughter came to me with profound sadness. This is a painful moment for the people of Odo-Ere, Yagba West and Kogi State as a whole,” Abejide said in a statement.

The lawmaker called on the Kogi State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the immediate release of the abducted victims, particularly the daughter of the slain officer.

Meanwhile, residents have urged security agencies to deploy the advanced surveillance drones recently unveiled by the state government to monitor vulnerable communities and forest corridors prone to criminal activities.

According to them, the drones were introduced to enhance intelligence gathering and improve rapid response against banditry and kidnapping across the state.

“The government and security agencies should leverage technology-driven security infrastructure to prevent further attacks and improve the protection of lives and property in Yagba West,” said Ayobami, a resident of the community.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, simply responded, “Noted.”

The police command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.

Peter Obi Demands ₦5bn, Public Apology From Actor Kenneth Okonkwo Over Alleged Defamatory Comments

2026-06-10T06:09:03.430+01:00

Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has demanded ₦5 billion in damages and a public apology from his former ally, Kenneth Okonkwo, over alleged defamatory statements.

According to Obi’s lawyers, Okonkwo made comments during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 8, 2026, which they say were false and damaging to Obi’s reputation.

In a legal letter dated June 9, 2026, the lawyers accused Okonkwo of alleging that Obi and some NDC leaders collected money from political aspirants, made fraudulent demands, and engaged in misconduct during party activities.

They described the claims as “false, malicious, and without evidence,” saying they portrayed Obi as corrupt and dishonest.

Obi’s legal team is demanding that Okonkwo:

Withdraw all the statements immediately

Publish a full public apology on TV and all social media platforms

Give a written promise to stop further comments on the matter

Pay ₦5 billion as damages for reputational injury

They warned that if he fails to comply within seven days, they will take legal action.

2027: Even If They Kidnap All Of Us, We'll Vote For Tinubu..Gov Okpebholo

2026-06-10T05:54:16.542+01:00

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has alleged that some persons are sponsoring insecurity to distract President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign for Local Government Council elections in Edo South Senatorial District, the governor said, “They can even kidnap all of us—yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock.”

He said insecurity had suddenly increased in the country, alleging that it is being orchestrated to tarnish the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Okpebholo said promoting insecurity would not guarantee the perpetrators seats in the Senate, House of Representatives, or the presidency, as there is no vacancy in Aso Rock.

“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. What is happening today is the handiwork of the opposition.”

“They have failed. Have they not failed? Is it by kidnapping children? Then who are you going to govern? There will be nobody for you to govern. So let them give us peace so that we can rule well,” Okpebholo said.

The governor said the President had done more for the country than his predecessors.

He noted that the impact of removal of the fuel subsidy had been seen and felt in various projects dotting the state.

He commended those, who scaled through the party’s primary election to emerge as candidates for the forthcoming council elections.

He said their victories would signal the possibility of delivering the 2.5 million votes pledged to President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking also, the party’s chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, described the APC as the only viable party in the state.

He urged the candidates to take the message of the governor’s developmental strides to the nooks and crannies of the state, and to replicate it in their various local government areas.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highpoint of the event was the official unveiling of the Edo South candidates of the party by the governor, including Ogbeide Ihama as – senate, Dr Paddy Iyamu -Oredo federal constituency, Omorede Igbinedion -and Ovia Federal constituency among others

(NAN)

EFCC Arraigns Blessing CEO For Another Alleged N69.1m Fraud, Granted N10m Bail

2026-06-10T05:47:07.704+01:00

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, arraigned a social media influencer, Okoro Blessing Nkiruka, (a.k.a Blessing CEO) for an alleged N69,150,000 (Sixty-Nine Million, One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fraud before Justice R.A. Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.

Nkiruka was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N69,150,000.

At the commencement of the proceedings, prosecution counsel, C.C.Okezie, urged the court to proceed with the arraignment, arguing that the defendant had been duly served with the charge.

However, defence counsel, Nkama Nneka, informed the court that service of the charge had only recently been effected.

In his ruling, Justice Oshodi held that the arraignment should proceed in accordance with the law, hence the charges were subsequently read to the defendant.

Count one reads: “That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA, on or about March 21, 2025, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, by false pretence and with intent to defraud, induced Hope Chiropractic Health Clinic Limited to confer a benefit of N69,150,000 (Sixty-Nine Million, One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) on you under the representation that the property located at No. 1 Tunbosun Osobu Street, Lekki, belonged to you and was leased to the company for a period of five years, a representation you knew to be false, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 1(2) and punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act.”

Count two reads: “That you, OKORO BLESSING NKIRUKA, on or about March 21, 2025, in Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, dishonestly converted to your own use the sum of N69,150,000 (Sixty-Nine Million, One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), being the property of Hope Chiropractic Health Clinic Limited, thereby committing an offence of stealing contrary to Section 280(2) and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.”

The defendant pleaded “not guilty” to the charges when they were read to her.

In view of this, Okezie asked for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant in EFCC custody pending her scheduled arraignment before the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on June 10, 2026, for another alleged fraud case.

Consequently, Justice Oshodi remanded the defendant in EFCC custody and adjourned the matter till July 16, 2026 for the hearing of the bail application and the commencement of trial.

In a related development, Justice Dipeolu of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, granted Blessing Nkiruka, who is being prosecuted for an alleged N36m fraud, bail in the sum of ₦10 million with two sureties in like sum.

One of the sureties must be a family member and is required to provide proof of employment, Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identification Number (NIN), and a valid phone number.

The sureties must also submit a valid international passport, tax clearance certificates for the last two years, and six passport photographs

The defendant was earlier arraigned on a two-count charge by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the EFCC bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing to the tune of N36million

Ekiti Uni Deputy Registrar Slumped , Died During Promotional Interview

2026-06-09T22:00:53.997+01:00

A tragic incident has occurred at Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, as one of the candidates contesting for the position of Registrar, Deputy Registrar Dr. Solomon Oluwasola Afolabi, reportedly slumped during the aptitude test conducted as part of the selection process for the appointment.

Sources at the university disclosed that Dr. Afolabi suddenly cried out in distress during the exercise, causing concern among fellow candidates and officials present at the venue. He was immediately rushed to the university's health centre for urgent medical attention.

However, despite efforts to save his life, he was confirmed dead by medical personnel at the health facility.

The incident has thrown the university community into confusion as the nature of his death was considered strange given that he suddenly screamed during the test.

A staff who spoke under anonymity said Dr. Afolabi was among the favourite candidates being considered for the position of Registrar of the institution before he died during the Aptitude test.

Other candidates in the selection process are Dr. Babatola J.E.T. and Mrs. Adeojo R.T.B.

As of the time of filing this report, the university management had yet to issue an official statement on the development

Vigilantes Rescue Bar Manager, Sales Girl Abducted In Kogi State.

2026-06-09T21:00:10.679+01:00

The Bar Manager and Sales Girl who were abducted from Aluta Bar Relaxation, located in Oke-Ijumu, Ikoyi, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, have been rescued by a joint security team in Yagba West.

The victims were kidnapped by armed bandits during an attack on the relaxation centre on Saturday night, June 6, 2026.

According to sources, the rescue operation was carried out this afternoon, June 9, 2026, by operatives of the Ogbe Vigilantes, Irele-Ekiti Vigilantes, the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Police Force.

A source familiar with the operation disclosed that the bandits were transporting the victims to their hideout when the security team intercepted them.

During the operation, several of the bandits were neutralized, while others escaped with gunsh°t wounds.

The kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed.

Residents have commended the bravery and swift response of the local vigilantes and security agencies whose collaborative efforts led to the successful rescue of the victims.

Security operatives have reportedly intensified efforts to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent further criminal activities in the area.