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Tinubu’s houses for Appeal court Judges are bribes, says Baba-Ahmed

2026-06-17T15:36:20.835+01:00

National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has described as ‘bribe’, the houses built for judges of the Appeal Court by President Bola Tinubu.

Baba-Ahmed made the claim on Wednesday in an interview on Trust TV.

Recall that the President recently commissioned the newly completed 10-unit Court of Appeal Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District of Abuja.

Reacting, Baba-Ahmed said, “If this government genuinely built an estate for judges, literally, it’s a bribe. That’s the fact.

“Government should rather improve their salary and allowances to improve their lives so that they can build their own houses.

“Building houses for them and exempt other workers is absurd. Why can’t the government build houses for permanent secretaries or doctors?

“If I were to advise the judges, I would straight up tell them not to accept the house gifts.”

Nigeria to spend over half of revenue on debt servicing in 2026 - IMF

2026-06-17T15:36:16.296+01:00

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Nigeria will spend more than half of its revenue on debt servicing in 2026.

The projection is contained in the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) latest country assessment, which estimates that the federal government’s interest payments will consume 53.7 percent of revenue in 2026, up from 53.2 percent in 2025 and 40.8 percent in 2024.

The IMF expects the interest-to-revenue ratio to ease marginally to 52.4 percent in 2027.

Also, IMF projected improvements in inflation and external reserves, forecasting average inflation of 16 percent in 2026, while gross international reserves are expected to rise from $40.2 billion in 2024 to $58.1 billion in 2026 and $62 billion in 2027.

‘NIGERIA’S DEBT IS SUSTAINABLE, BUT DEBT-SERVICE BURDEN IS A CONCERN’

Speaking on ARISE Television on Tuesday, Christian Ebeke, IMF resident representative for Nigeria, said the country’s debt remained sustainable and the risk of sovereign debt distress was moderate.

“Our latest assessment in the Article IV that we just published on June 9 basically concludes that Nigeria’s debt is sustainable. And second, the risk of sovereign stress is actually moderate. So we don’t see Nigeria as a high-risk debt-distressed country,” Ebeke said.

He said Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio, which remains in the mid-30 percent range, compares favourably with many peer countries, adding that Nigeria’s debt portfolio benefits from a balanced mix of domestic and external borrowing and relatively long maturities.

According to Ebeke, the bigger concern is the amount of revenue being used to service debt.

“We actually estimate that in 2025 to 2028, the interest-to-revenue ratio, how much the federal government pays out of the tax it collects, is actually about 50 percent,” he said.

“When you have more than 50 percent of your tax collection devoted to repaying interest on your federal government debt, it leaves you very little room to actually pay for health, education, cash transfer, including security.”

Ebeke said the IMF’s focus remains on helping Nigeria strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation through effective implementation of recently enacted tax reforms.

He said the IMF’s priority is to support efforts aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s domestic revenue mobilisation while taking into account prevailing economic challenges, including high inflation, widespread poverty and food insecurity.

Ebeke added that the successful implementation and enforcement of the country’s new tax laws would be critical to improving government revenue and reducing fiscal vulnerabilities.

APC will triumph in Saturday’s governorship poll in Ekiti – Akpabio

2026-06-17T15:36:10.959+01:00

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed confidence that Governor Biodun Oyebanji will win his election for a second term as Governor of Ekiti State in this Saturday's polls.

Akpabio made the remarks on Tuesday at the capital city of Ado-Ekiti during the grand finale of the Governorship campaign of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in the state.

The rally was also attended by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, the APC National Chairman and his team in the National Working Committee, dozens of federal lawmakers and many APC Governors.

Akpabio, who is the co-chairman of the APC National Campaign Council for the Ekiti Governorship poll, assured the people that he would support and work with the Governor until the victory is delivered on Saturday.

“I will support you. I will work with you until victory is delivered on the 20th of June, 2026,” Akpabio assured the Governor.

The Senate President said the people of Ekiti State are known for peace and urged them not to allow anyone to steal their peace by causing violence at the polls,.

The Senate President urged them not to stay back at home but come out early to cast their votes stressing that “we want to see the quantum of your votes so that we will know what you are going to give to Asiwaju in 2027.”

Akpabio explained that Governor Oyebanji was being supported because of his performance and humility.

“We have come to support not just a colleague but a performing colleague in the party. We have come to support a humble man and a man who believes in gender sensitivity, who has picked a woman as a deputy governor.

“We are here to support the women in Ekiti State. We have come to support performance in Ekiti State.

“Who would have thought that a man could unite all the former governors of Ekiti State. I have seen them here. Sometimes we don’t agree with them. Sometimes they are not even in the same party. But they are all here on the podium to support only one man. And the reason is because, that man is worthy of support,” Akpabio said.

Also speaking, Governor Oyebanji said he had kept to his campaign promises during the last election and made a further pledge to do more if re-elected for a second term of four years on Saturday.

“Close to four years ago, we entered into a contract that we will serve you. You can attest to the fact that with the help of God and the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have served you well.

“We have served you very well in the last three to four years. You can see what we have done. These are things you can see, you can feel and you can touch. And l make a pledge here today that we are ready to do more,” Governor Oyebanji said.

Adelabu Denies Defection Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to APC

2026-06-17T15:29:24.729+01:00

Former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has dismissed reports suggesting he plans to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He described the claim as false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his media aide, Femi Awogboro, Adelabu insisted he remains a committed member of the APC and has not contemplated joining any other political party.

“At no time has Chief Adelabu contemplated, initiated, discussed or authorised any move to the SDP or any other political party,” Awogboro said.

He stressed that the APC’s governorship primary process for the 2027 election has not yet been concluded, making rumours of defection baseless.

Awogboro further argued that Adelabu’s political ambition is not driven by desperation, pointing to his distinguished career in both the public and private sectors built on competence, integrity, and hard work.

The statement accused promoters of the rumour of attempting to exploit Adelabu’s growing popularity in Oyo State for political attention.

“We urge those behind this false narrative to focus on presenting their own credentials and programmes to the electorate rather than seeking relevance through association with Chief Adelabu’s name,” it added.

Awogboro warned against misinformation and propaganda in Oyo politics, revealing that Adelabu’s legal team is reviewing the publication and may take legal action if the falsehood persists.

He reiterated that Adelabu remains focused on his vision for Oyo State and committed to the ideals of the APC.

“Chief Adelabu remains steadfast in his commitment to the APC and will not be distracted by political opportunism, cheap publicity stunts or attention-seeking fabrications,” the statement concluded.

NCC, KPMG Launch Review of Telecom Interconnection Pricing

2026-06-17T15:18:16.244+01:00

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in partnership with consultancy firm KPMG, has commenced a comprehensive review of telecom interconnection pricing, the first major reassessment of the sector’s tariff framework in nearly a decade.

The exercise was formally launched at a Mobile Termination Rate Stakeholder Forum in Lagos on Tuesday, bringing together regulators, operators, and industry players to evaluate wholesale pricing rules that govern payments between networks for completing voice calls.

Why the Review Matters

Mobile Termination Rates (MTRs) are regulated fees paid by one operator to another to complete calls across networks.

They directly influence competition, investment, and retail pricing in the telecom sector.

The current framework, last set in 2018 and adjusted in 2022, has been overtaken by market changes including:

The rollout of 5G networks

Expansion of data-driven services

Entry of mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs)

Rising macroeconomic pressures such as inflation and currency depreciation.

NCC’s Position

Omotayo Mohammed, Head of the Competition and Tariff Unit at NCC, said the review goes beyond routine adjustments, stressing the need to align regulation with a rapidly evolving industry.

“For regulation to remain effective in a fast-moving market, our frameworks must evolve in step with it,” he noted, adding that the review is being conducted under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003 to ensure tariffs remain cost-reflective and non-discriminatory.

KPMG explained that the study will combine data analysis, stakeholder consultations, and international benchmarking to identify gaps in the current regime.

Partner Oluwole Adelokun said industry input will be critical:

“It is important that we get input from the industry in terms of potential solutions and recommendations to address the shortfalls.”

Operators will be required to submit detailed financial and operational data, including revenue, costs, profitability, market share, capital expenditure, service quality, and usage trends.

The review will benchmark Nigeria’s framework against peer markets such as South Africa, Kenya, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Findings will inform recommendations for a revised pricing regime that is transparent, competitive, and capable of sustaining investment in infrastructure and service quality.

NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Nnenna Ukoha, emphasized that termination rates remain central to pricing dynamics, competition, and service outcomes, urging operators to provide timely and accurate data to ensure the effectiveness of the process.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Announces ₦100m Grant, Inaugurates ICT Centre in Benue

2026-06-17T15:04:32.169+01:00

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday unveiled a ₦100 million grant to support 2,000 petty traders in Benue State, describing the initiative as part of efforts to empower women and strengthen grassroots businesses.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Community Information and Technology Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area, Mrs Tinubu said ICT remains a vital tool for community empowerment, particularly for women and young people.

She explained that the grant would be disbursed through the Renewed Hope Initiative, with ₦50 million allocated to 1,000 women in Vandeikya and another ₦50 million to 1,000 women in Makurdi and surrounding areas.

“The knowledge of ICT serves as a significant tool for empowering communities, especially women, and will enable them to break new opportunities and enhance youths in their educational prospects in the global economy,” she said.

Benue now hosts four ICT centres, while 15 others have been established across states including Abia, Cross River, Rivers, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Jigawa, and the FCT.

Each centre is equipped with computers and modern ICT facilities to bridge Nigeria’s digital divide.

The Ihugh centre was named after Louis Aluor and built in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

Earlier in Makurdi, the First Lady inaugurated an 11.5-kilometre road, with one of the roads, Ishayaba, named in her honour.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, in his remarks, described the ICT centre as a transformational hub that will promote entrepreneurship, e-marketing, and incubation support for small-scale enterprises. He pledged the state government’s commitment to providing start-up funds, power supply, and internet connectivity to sustain the centres.

Secondus Slams Court Order Deregistering ADC, Four Other Parties

2026-06-17T14:52:43.854+01:00

Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, has raised alarm over the recent judgment of the Federal High Court ordering the deregistration of several political parties, cautioning that the move could undermine Nigeria’s multi-party system.

On Monday, Justice Peter Lifu directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance, Accord Party, and Zenith Labour Party, ruling that they failed to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration.

Reacting in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, Secondus described the ruling as a dangerous precedent that could narrow political participation and weaken democratic competition.

“This is not just a setback for the affected parties but a dangerous assault on the foundational principles of multi-party democracy, citizen participation, and the rule of law,” he said.

Secondus argued that smaller and emerging parties are vital for broadening political participation and offering citizens alternative platforms. He accused the government of attempting to weaken opposition voices, saying: “They are afraid of the election; they want a coronation.”

He further stressed that constitutional provisions on deregistration were designed to be applied after elections, not midway through the political cycle. According to him, deregistering parties at this stage disenfranchises voters, destabilises the system, and shrinks the democratic space.

“It’s judicial rascality to endorse political exclusion by dissolving parties midway through a cycle. This disruption chills the competitive spirit necessary for a healthy democracy,” he added.

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has since ordered a stay of execution of the judgment, pending the determination of appeals filed by the affected parties.

Defence Headquarters Reports Major Gains in Nationwide Military Operations

2026-06-17T14:41:14.742+01:00

The Defence Headquarters has provided fresh updates on military operations across Nigeria, highlighting significant achievements recorded between June 4 and June 11, 2026.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the coordinated efforts reflect the professionalism and tactical ingenuity of Nigerian troops under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede.

North East

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai intensified pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters through clearance patrols and raids.

On June 5, soldiers rescued an 8-year-old boy, Ali Musa, in Gwoza LGA, Borno State.

Subsequent operations freed additional women and children, with more escapees intercepted on June 11 after breaking free from terrorist hideouts in the Mandara Mountains.

A multi-axis raid on June 6 led to the dramatic rescue of 360 civilians, mostly women and children, abducted from Ngoshe community in March. Sadly, two infants died due to harsh conditions before evacuation.

Several terrorist informants and suppliers were arrested across Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States, with seized items including motorcycles, weapons, narcotics, and logistics supplies.

North West

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma recorded decisive victories in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara States.

Arrests included suspected arms dealer Mallam Mustapha Abubakar, alongside other criminal elements.

North Central

The Joint Task Force, Operation Savannah Shield, dismantled surveillance networks in Niger State, arresting a high-value terrorist informant now under interrogation.

Other operations under Operation Enduring Peace also disrupted criminal activities in the region.

South South & South East

Operation Delta Safe continued to secure oil-rich areas in the South South.

In the South East, Operation UDO KA achieved “landmark successes” against the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

General Oluyede praised troops nationwide for their courage, discipline, and dedication, noting that the operations have significantly weakened terrorist networks and criminal supply chains.

'You Embarrassed Nigeria' - Davido, Rarara Clash Over World Cup Protest Jacket

2026-06-17T14:32:05.480+01:00

Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, and Hausa singer Dauda Rarara have traded words after Rarara accused the Afrobeats star of embarrassing Nigeria on the global stage.

The dispute stems from Davido’s performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles on June 10, where he wore a jacket inscribed “Bring Them Home” alongside the names of more than 40 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State on May 15. Some victims were killed in the attack, while others remain in captivity.

Davido’s gesture drew praise from figures such as opposition presidential candidate Peter Obi, who commended him for spotlighting Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.

But Rarara, a musician aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), condemned the act in a Facebook video, calling it “barbaric” and warning that it could damage Nigeria’s image abroad. He accused Davido of politicising the tragedy to benefit his uncle’s Accord Party campaign and likened the move to “exposing one’s mother’s shame to the world.”

Rarara further argued that the abductions were linked to the arrest of terrorist leaders, claiming Davido’s protest undermined sensitive security operations.

Davido responded on X with a mocking “Debidooo,” while Rarara fired back in Hausa: “Kashiga taitayinka” (“come back to your senses”). The Afrobeats star then escalated, writing: “If only you had knowledge, I would have stopped to speak with you. But you know nothing, just a fool.”

The exchange has sparked debate online, with supporters divided between those applauding Davido’s activism and those echoing Rarara’s warning against airing Nigeria’s security challenges on international platforms.

‘You’re prioritising 2027 over democracy, security’ – Reps’ minority caucus slams Tinubu

2026-06-17T14:27:11.800+01:00

The minority caucus of the House of Representatives has accused the federal government of neglecting governance, worsening insecurity and allegedly undermining opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a press conference at the National Assembly on Wednesday, Minority Leader Hon. Fred Agbedi said Nigeria was facing a dangerous combination of insecurity, economic hardship and what he described as attempts to weaken democratic opposition through the judiciary.

The caucus expressed outrage over the killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in captivity after he was reportedly abducted alongside his wife in Katsina State.

Describing the incident as a national tragedy and evidence of the country’s deteriorating security situation, Agbedi said the murder of the retired military officer underscored the inability of the state to protect its citizens.

“That a general of the Nigerian Army, who once commanded troops and defended this nation, could be kidnapped alongside his wife and later declared dead under unclear circumstances is a grave indictment of a failed state,” he said.

The caucus noted that the killing came after the deaths of other senior military officers in the fight against insurgency, warning that insecurity had spread across several parts of the country.

According to Agbedi, President Bola Tinubu must provide a clear and effective security strategy to confront banditry, terrorism and kidnapping, which he said continue to threaten lives and communities nationwide.

The lawmakers also expressed concern over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, calling for an urgent military operation to secure their release.

“As we speak, school children and their teachers abducted in Oyo State remain in captivity. Their crime? Going to school in Nigeria,” Agbedi stated.

The caucus demanded what it described as a coordinated rescue effort, insisting that every hour spent in captivity endangered the future of the affected children.

On the political front, the Minority Caucus criticised a recent Federal High Court judgment ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five opposition political parties.

The lawmakers alleged that the ruling was capable of creating confusion within the political system and could be interpreted as an attempt to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

Agbedi argued that the judgment contradicted an existing Court of Appeal decision and ignored submissions by INEC regarding the electoral performance of the affected parties.

“We consider Justice Lifu’s judgment as a calculated attempt to muscle legitimate opposition out of the race for the 2027 presidency,” he said.

The caucus, however, welcomed the intervention of the Court of Appeal, which it said had halted the implementation of the lower court’s decision.

The lawmakers further accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency of focusing on political calculations for 2027 instead of addressing the country’s pressing challenges.

They pointed to rising insecurity, economic hardship, hunger and declining public confidence in governance as issues requiring urgent attention.

“The life of every Nigerian matters. Politics must take the back seat when the nation bleeds. We must secure Nigeria first,” Agbedi said.

Among its demands, the caucus called for an immediate overhaul of the nation’s security architecture, a transparent investigation into the abduction and murder of General Rabe, and urgent intervention by the Chief Justice of Nigeria to address conflicting judicial decisions relating to political party registration.

The lawmakers also urged President Tinubu to suspend all activities linked to the 2027 elections and instead implement a six-month National Security and Economic Recovery Plan aimed at tackling insecurity and economic challenges.

The Minority Caucus vowed to continue holding the government accountable through legislative means, insisting that opposition parties would not be intimidated or excluded from the democratic process ahead of the next general election.

FG to launch FreeTV with ‘over 100 channels’

2026-06-17T14:25:29.310+01:00

The federal government will launch FreeTV, a national digital television platform, on June 17 as part of efforts to expand access to digital broadcasting across the country.

In a statement on Tuesday, the government said the platform would provide Nigerians with free access to more than 100 national, regional and state television channels without monthly subscription charges.

According to the federal government, the initiative is part of Nigeria’s Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme and aligns with “President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises digital inclusion, job creation and access to opportunities”.

FreeTV will offer a range of programming, including news, sports, movies, music, children’s content, educational programmes, and dedicated Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo language channels.

The service will be accessible through satellite and terrestrial transmission, as well as the FreeTV mobile application, enabling users in urban and rural communities to access digital television services.

The government said Nigerians would not need to purchase new television sets to access the platform, provided they have compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders.

Households already using compatible free-to-air decoders may not need additional equipment.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Charles Ebuebu, director-general of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), said the platform would improve access to digital content while creating opportunities for local creatives and media professionals.

“FreeTV speaks directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of Renewed Hope towards expanding access, creating opportunity and ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or income, can benefit from the digital economy,” Ebuebu said.

“With FreeTV, families across Nigeria can enjoy quality digital television without a monthly subscription, while our local content producers, technicians and young creatives gain new platforms and new jobs.”

The NBC said the platform would also support Nigeria’s creative economy through regional production studios in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin.

The studios are expected to create opportunities for content creators, editors, camera operators, sound engineers, technicians and other professionals within the broadcast value chain.

The commission added that Nigeria’s final analogue switch-off remains scheduled for December 31, 2028, and encouraged citizens to confirm decoder compatibility and download the FreeTV mobile application ahead of the rollout.

US Grants Permanent Residency to Ghana’s Fugitive Ex-Finance Minister

2026-06-17T14:24:27.916+01:00

The United States has granted permanent residency to Ghana’s former finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, his lawyer announced Tuesday, ending months of legal uncertainty after his arrest by immigration authorities.

Ofori-Atta, 66, has lived in the US since January 2025, where he underwent medical treatment including prostate cancer surgery. In January this year, however, he was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while seeking to extend his stay. His attorneys stressed that the arrest was linked to his immigration status, not his legal troubles in Ghana.

Ghanaian authorities had declared Ofori-Atta a fugitive in February 2025 and later charged him with corruption in November. Despite this, his attorney Justice Kusi-Minkah Premo confirmed that the US Immigration Court approved his Green Card application, ruling that “the criminal charges in Ghana [were] not credible."

The court’s decision, he added, focused strictly on whether Ofori-Atta met the requirements for permanent residency.

Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s finance minister from 2017 to 2024 under former president Nana Akufo-Addo, overseeing controversial tax reforms and IMF negotiations. His successor, President John Mahama, has launched a sweeping anti-corruption drive, though critics argue it disproportionately targets political opponents.

Equatorial Guinea government resigns over unmet performance targets

2026-06-17T13:52:12.316+01:00

Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, vice-president of Equatorial Guinea, has announced the federal executive council’s resignation after it failed to meet performance targets.

In an X post on Tuesday, Mangue who is also the son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, said the cabinet quit after achieving “barely 10 percent” of its goals.

“The rule is simple: public responsibility has to come with results,” he said.

“The state puts significant human, material and financial resources at the disposal of the government to address the needs of the population.

“So the degree of execution achieved is clearly insufficient in relation to the expectations and commitments undertaken.”

Mangue did not specify what targets were set.

Mbasogo has been in power since 1979, making him the world’s longest-serving leader.

He appointed the outgoing government, which is tasked with administrative coordination, in 2024, with Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua as prime minister.

Nsua previously led the National Bank of Equatorial Guinea for more than a decade and was charged with implementing economic reforms that would benefit the poorest populations.

However, two years on, the country’s economy has continued to experience a prolonged slowdown driven by declining oil production, lower investment levels, and external shocks.

Equatorial Guinea is heavily reliant on petroleum, with oil and gas accounting for most of its exports and revenues.

In a statement, the ruling Democratic ‌Party ⁠of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) said the president was dissatisfied with the management of the outgoing government.

Mbasogo said the government had not implemented policies to diversify the economy especially in the agricultural sector, which would cut reliance on imported goods that can be produced locally.

A new government is expected to be appointed.

I am not desperate to be president – Peter Obi

2026-06-17T13:50:27.730+01:00

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says he is not desperate to be president of Nigeria.

Speaking during an interview on the Nevon HQ podcast hosted by journalist and media personality Rufai Oseni, the former Anambra governor said his political ambition is driven by his determination to see the country work for its citizens.

Obi insisted he is more concerned about fixing Nigeria’s challenges rather than pursuing power for his own sake.

“I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said.

He also lamented the economic hardship facing many Nigerians, particularly young people, noting that millions are struggling to find sustainable livelihoods.

“I am desperate to see young people have a means of livelihood. I am desperate to see people stop stealing public money. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” he stated.

Appeal Court nullified my election but I’m providing conducive environment for judiciary – Wike

2026-06-17T13:50:23.617+01:00

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, disclosed that he ensured that judicial officers got a conducive environment despite losing an election appeal at the Court of Appeal.

Wike disclosed that the Appeal Court nullified his election, but he remains steadfast in providing a conducive environment for judicial officers.

He made the disclosure during the commissioning of Judges' Quarters (Court of Appeal) and Flag-Off Construction of Quarters for Industrial Court, Code of Conduct Tribunal by President Bola Tinubu.

Tinubu was represented by the commissioning by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi.

However, Wike also noted that Federal Government can’t carry out all projects, hence states should be involved.

According to Wike: “The federal government can’t do everything. I challenge states, governors, if there is one division in state A and the governor knows that the Federal High Court is there, to whom are they rendering services to? They are not rendering services to state B but to state A.

“The Court of Appeal is there, who are they rendering services to? It’s your state, the Industrial Court is there. When I was governor, we used to go to Bayelsa State for Industrial Court, and 80 percent of the cases came from Rivers.

“So I said, ' Why are we going to Bayelsa? ' I met the then-President of Industrial Court. Why do we go to Bayelsa? He said the state was not willing, but I said, ‘I’m willing, give me the designs, and we built for them, provided accommodations for them, and today our people no longer go to Bayelsa to have their cases.

“Justice Bulkachuwa was the president of the Court of Appeal and my election was nullified, so ordinary I will not agree to do anything but who's going to lose? My people in the state will lose.

“Look at the residences of the Justices, so I didn’t wait for the Federal Government; if I had waited for the Federal Government, it would take a longer time. So I challenge states not to leave everything to the Federal government.”

Soldiers Rescue Five Kidnapped Victims in Kogi as Terrorists Flee

2026-06-17T12:17:47.263+01:00

Troops of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have successfully rescued five kidnapped victims in Kogi State after terrorists abandoned them during a swift escape from ongoing military operations.

The rescue took place on Wednesday as part of intensified counter-terrorism efforts under the 2 Division Nigerian Army. Ground and air offensives targeted terrorist hideouts in the forested areas of the state, forcing the criminals to disperse.

According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 12 Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, troops on a blocking mission along the Oshokoshoko–Adankolo route in Adankolo Forest intercepted the victims, who had been left behind by the fleeing terrorists.

“Preliminary findings revealed that the victims had regained their freedom after the terrorists were forced to disperse in the aftermath of the ongoing kinetic operations targeting their hideouts,” the statement said.

The rescued individuals were quickly evacuated to a safe location, where they received medical attention and stabilisation at a military medical facility.

They were also debriefed to gather intelligence that could aid ongoing efforts to locate and neutralise remaining terrorists in the area.Efforts are now underway to reunite the victims with their families once medical and administrative processes are completed.

The Commander of the 12 Brigade, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, praised the troops for their vigilance, resilience, and professionalism. He called on residents to continue providing credible intelligence to support military operations, emphasising that public cooperation is key to defeating criminal elements in the state.

Deregistration: Judiciary Can’t Dictate to INEC – Lawyer Ubani

2026-06-17T12:13:17.572+01:00

Dr. Monday Ubani, Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association Electoral Committee, has asserted that the judiciary cannot dictate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on matters of party deregistration.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Day Break programme, Ubani emphasised INEC’s constitutional independence in handling the registration and deregistration of political parties.

His comments followed a Federal High Court judgment by Justice Peter Lifu in Abuja, which ordered INEC to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties. However, the Court of Appeal in Abuja swiftly issued a stay of execution on the judgment on Tuesday.

Ubani criticised the high court ruling, stating that INEC had already exercised its constitutional powers by conducting an administrative review and determining that the parties were not in breach of the requirements for deregistration.

“INEC filed a counter affidavit after taking the administrative action the constitution has given them powers to, and have found out those parties are not in breach,” he said. “But the court was ready to substitute its own opinion over that of the body with the power to do so.”

The legal expert argued that while the judiciary has its role, it should not encroach on the statutory functions of INEC as an independent electoral body.

The development has sparked widespread reactions across the political landscape, with concerns over potential threats to opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. The affected parties remain active following the appellate court’s intervention.

Internal Party Disagreements Normal – Peter Obi speaks on Tensions in NDC

2026-06-17T12:06:52.866+01:00

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, has described internal disagreements within political parties as a normal occurrence that should not be viewed as a crisis.

In an interview aired by Nevon Media on Tuesday, Obi addressed recent tensions within the NDC and reactions to opposition criticisms.

He emphasised that every political organisation encounters disagreements from time to time, but these are typically resolved internally without derailing the party's progress.

“In every organisation, you will have disagreements or minor issues. What matters is how they are handled. Most of the time, they are resolved and the party moves on,” Obi stated.He specifically responded to concerns raised by party members, including activist Aisha Yesufu, noting that differences of opinion and expressions of dissatisfaction are inherent to political engagement and do not signal a structural breakdown.

Regarding legal disputes and public allegations involving party chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo, Obi explained that the matter stemmed from public claims that could not be overlooked. He stressed the importance of accountability and evidence in political communication.

“As leaders, we must be open to scrutiny so the public can understand who we are and what we stand for,” he added.Obi further advocated for selecting future leaders based on integrity, competence, character, and proper qualifications rather than mere political loyalty. He highlighted that accountability in politics requires openness to examination of leaders' past and present actions in the public interest.

The comments come amid reports of internal frictions in the relatively new NDC. Last week, Obi filed a ₦5 billion defamation lawsuit against Kenneth Okonkwo over remarks allegedly made during a Channels Television interview on June 8, 2026.

Okonkwo had criticised Obi’s political moves, including his departure from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition to join the NDC, and reportedly described Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso as “political conmen.”The suit references allegations of corruption, bribery involving House of Representatives aspirants, manipulation of party primaries, and issues in candidate selection.

Obi’s remarks aim to reassure supporters and the public that the NDC remains focused and united despite the challenges typical of a growing opposition party.

JAMB Releases 2026 UTME Original Result Slips for Printing

2026-06-17T11:35:27.850+01:00

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) can now print their official original result slips.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, the original result slips which include candidates’ photographs, national ranking, and other vital security features became available for printing within two hours of the announcement.

“The 2026 UTME Original Result Slip will be available for printing within the next two hours today, Wednesday, 17th June, 2026,” the statement said.

It further noted that the document is an essential official requirement for post-UTME screening and admission processing by tertiary institutions. Candidates are advised to print their slips conveniently from any internet-enabled device, whether at home, in the office, or at accredited business centres.

JAMB urged candidates to carefully check the details on their printed slips and keep multiple copies safe for future use in the admission process.

The 2026 UTME main examinations were held in April, followed by a mop-up examination on June 13 for candidates affected by technical or biometric issues. Mop-up results were released on Tuesday, June 16.

The release of the printable original slips had been delayed to allow for the completion of foreign-based examinations and the mop-up round. This development now paves the way for candidates to fully participate in the 2026/2027 admission cycle, as many institutions have started or are preparing to begin their post-UTME processes.

I would’ve removed fuel subsidy in organized manner, didn’t criticize Tinubu – Peter Obi

2026-06-17T11:35:01.562+01:00

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has disclosed how he would have removed the subsidy on petroleum products if he were the president.

Obi disclosed that he would have removed the subsidy on fuel in an organized manner and not on the day of his presidential inauguration.

In 2023, President Bola Tinubu had removed the subsidy on fuel during his inauguration as Nigeria’s president.

However, Obi said he would have met with stakeholders in the Petroleum sector first before announcing the subsidy removal.

Obi spoke in an interview with Rufai Oseni while dismissing claims that he criticized Tinubu over the manner he removed the subsidy on fuel.

He said: “I didn’t criticize Tinubu for removing the subsidy. I said I would have removed it, but in an organized manner. I wouldn’t have announced it at my inauguration.

“I would have first sat down with operators in the industry because we know there is a lot of crim!nality around the subsidy.

“I would remove it to determine the exact amount being spent on subsidy and also address the issue of exchange rate deregulation. But in doing these things, the most important thing is to fight corruption head-on.

“Since the subsidy was removed, what has been the impact on the average Nigerian? We have even borrowed more money than we used to when subsidy was still in place.”

Atiku yet to publicly name Amaechi his presidential running mate – Sam Amadi

2026-06-17T11:34:58.381+01:00

The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has said the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, is yet to publicly name former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi as his running mate.

Amadi said Nigerians are waiting for him to publicly announce Amadi as his presidential running mate.

Posting on X, Amadi wrote: “@atiku is yet to publicly name @ChibuikeAmaechi as his VP. May be he will do so soonest. We wait to hear him say so soonest.”

On Monday, the ADC had named Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State as Atiku’s presidential running mate for the 2027 general elections.

The choice of Amaechi as Atiku’s running mate was revealed by ADC’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi via a statement.

Abdullahi said Amaechi was chosen after extensive consultations with relevant stakeholders.

However, observed that the former Vice President is yet to publicly unveil Amaechi as his running mate.

‘Without me, there would be no Israel’ — Trump criticises Netanyahu over Lebanon strike

2026-06-17T11:34:54.797+01:00

US President Donald Trump says there would be no Israel without the United States and his leadership.

Trump’s comments, made on Tuesday at the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, follow growing tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv over the Iran conflict and efforts to sustain a ceasefire in the region.

On Sunday, the US and Iran said they have reached a deal to end the Middle East war on all fronts, including Lebanon, and reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz.

However, on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country would keep its troops in Lebanon despite the deal.

“I want to make clear: We will remain in the security zones as long as required in order to defend our country,” Netanyahu said, noting that “the struggle has not ended”.

Just as Trump announced a deal with Iran, Israel conducted an air strike in a suburb of Beirut.

But the US president said he was angry at Netanyahu for complicating efforts.

Resuming his criticism in France, Trump said too many people have died from Israel’s mission to fight Hezbollah, adding that the conflict has gone on for “too long”.

“You don’t have to knock down an apartment house every time you’re looking for somebody, because there are a lot of people in those apartment houses, and they’re not all Hezbollah, that I can tell you,” the US president said.

“And I suggested to Israel to let Syria take care of Hezbollah because, to be honest with you, I think they’re doing a better job of doing it.

“Without us, without the United States, there would be no Israel. Without me, there would be no Israel, because no other president was willing to do what I did. I’ve had a great relationship with Bibi, but now Bibi has to be more responsible with respect to Lebanon.”

Trump said Israel should “have been able to do the job faster”, adding that the long-standing conflict throws a negative light on the peace deal with Iran.

Court sentences man to death for kidnapping, killing his neighbour in Kogi

2026-06-17T11:34:50.290+01:00

he high court in Kogi state has sentenced Jibrin Halilu to death for kidnapping and killing his neighbour despite obtaining N2.5 million in ransom.

Abdul Nicodemus Awulu, the trial judge, on Tuesday, convicted Halilu of charges bordering on conspiracy and kidnapping.

The charges contravened sections 12, 6 (1), and 4 (3)(a) of the Kogi State Kidnapping and Other Related Offences Prohibition Law, 2023.

The Department of State Services (DSS) prosecutor said the convict and other members of his armed gang stormed Ever Ready hotel, Angwa-Tiv, in Obajana town and abducted the proprietor, Uche Andrew Offo, on March 23, 2023.

The prosecutor said Offo’s family paid the kidnappers the ransom as demanded.

Despite the payment, the kidnappers killed Offo.

A source within the DSS said while in captivity, Offo recognised Halilu as his neighbour, which made the kidnappers to kill him.

“Further investigations by the DSS also linked Halilu and his gang to the April 2, 2023 kidnapping of one Ibrahim Abdullahi, a resident of Oshokoshoko community in Lokoja, from whom the gang collected a N5 million ransom,” the source said.

Recently, a Katsina high court sentenced Hauwa’u Mukhtar, a female arms courier, to death by hanging for conspiracy to commit, aid and abet terrorism. The convict was arrested by DSS operatives.

In June, the federal high court in Abuja convicted four persons for their involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo state.

Four of the five suspects initially arraigned were convicted on all nine counts preferred against them by the federal government.

The suspects — Idris Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar — were arraigned on August 11, 2022, on a nine-count terrorism charge.

Nigeria, Cameroon Sign Border Security Pact

2026-06-17T11:28:45.371+01:00

Nigeria and Cameroon have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral defence cooperation, aimed at enhancing security along their shared southern border and boosting maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

The agreement was signed on Wednesday in Yaoundé by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), and Cameroon’s Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence, Mr. Joseph Assomo. It followed two days of detailed discussions between defence and security experts from both nations.

According to a statement from Musa’s media aide, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the MoU creates a comprehensive framework for collaboration in both terrestrial and maritime domains. Key provisions include intelligence sharing, operational coordination, logistics support, joint military training, personnel exchanges, and joint mechanisms to tackle emerging security threats.

General Musa described the pact as a structured platform that will institutionalise military cooperation and help both countries address common security challenges more effectively. The ministers also discussed operationalising the Combined Maritime Joint Task Force to safeguard economic interests in the Gulf of Guinea.

On the defence industry side, Musa highlighted the importance of regional partnerships to develop indigenous military production capabilities. He pointed to Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation as a potential avenue for collaboration in manufacturing, technology transfer, and innovation. Assomo expressed Cameroon’s interest in advancing defence technology ties and noted that formal proposals are being prepared.

Both governments hailed the signing as a significant milestone in strengthening Nigeria–Cameroon relations and their joint commitment to regional peace and stability.

The development comes shortly after reports of an alleged incursion by Cameroonian soldiers into the Danare community in Cross River State, which had raised tensions in the border area.

This pact builds on longstanding ties between the two neighbours and aims to provide a more robust response to cross-border security issues.

Oyo State Govt Joins Masquerade Group’s Traditional Prayer for Release of Kidnap Victims

2026-06-17T11:00:44.069+01:00

The Oyo State Government has participated in a special traditional prayer session organised by the Ibadan Labala Masquerades Group, seeking the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.

The prayer event, approved by the President of the Labala Masquerades Group Worldwide, Chief Ojeyemi Ajayi (Idunnu Ifa), took place at the Labala shrine in the Labo area of Ibadan, the state capital.

Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the government’s involvement in a statement issued on Wednesday. He explained that the initiative involved traditional prayers and sacrifices aimed at securing the safe return of the abductees and restoring peace and security across the state under Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde’s leadership.

Representing the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, the General Manager of the Oyo State Council for Arts and Culture, Mr. Kunle Agboola, praised the masquerade group for its compassion, patriotism, and proactive concern for the victims and the state. He highlighted the group’s partnership with the government as a standout effort amid multiple prayer sessions held since the incident.

Agboola stated: “Thank you for partnering with the government in this challenging moment in our state. Your efforts will not be in vain. We believe that the prayers and sacrifices offered today will yield positive results, and that the abductees will soon reunite with their families.”

On behalf of the masquerade group, the Balogun Baale Labala of Ibadan and Oyo State, Chief Oosakola Oladejo, revealed that a private special sacrifice had already been performed for the victims. He added that the group’s prayer walk through selected areas of Ibadan was intended to invoke divine intervention for the victims’ safety, prevent further deaths, and bring an end to kidnapping and insecurity in Oyo State and Nigeria.

Several spiritual leaders of the group, including the Otun Balogun Baale Labala, Chief Ojediran Olalekan, offered prayers at the event. Participants, led by Labala masquerades, then embarked on a prayer walk from the shrine through Labo, Oranyan area, Wesley College, Oba Asanke Street, Idi-Aro Junction, and back to the shrine.

The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed terrorists attacked three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esienle communities in Oriire Local Government Area, taking schoolchildren and teachers hostage. Security agencies and both state and federal governments continue efforts to rescue the victims unharmed.

This cultural and spiritual collaboration underscores a united approach to tackling the security challenges facing the state.

Senate Dismisses ₦62.2bn Customs Audit Query, Sets Up Comm. To Review 76 Remaining Cases

2026-06-17T10:40:21.242+01:00

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has cleared the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) of allegations that it failed to remit ₦62.2 billion into the Federation Account, as highlighted in the 2019 Audit Report of the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.

The decision came during an investigative hearing on Tuesday with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, regarding 77 audit queries raised against the agency in the 2019 and 2020 reports.

Representatives from the Auditor-General’s office told the committee that the NCS generated over ₦691 billion in revenue in 2017 but remitted only about ₦629 billion to the Federation Account, resulting in the ₦62.2 billion shortfall.

In response, CG Adeniyi clarified that the disputed amount consisted of levies collected on behalf of other government agencies, which were not intended for remittance into the Federation Account. He explained that the figure was misclassified in the audit report.

Adeniyi noted that while some levies collected by Customs go into the Federation Account, others—such as those on local production of wheat, textiles, and wines—are directed to separate designated accounts. He insisted the ₦62.2 billion fell into the latter category and should not be treated as unremitted revenue.

The committee found the Customs Service’s explanations for the first three audit queries satisfactory and dismissed the ₦62.2 billion query. However, it resolved to establish an ad hoc reconciliation panel to thoroughly review the remaining 76 audit queries and report back for further action.

Some senators questioned why the matters escalated to a full Senate investigation, suggesting they could have been resolved through routine reconciliation between Customs officials and auditors. Adeniyi attributed the progression partly to strained relations between the National Assembly and the Customs Service during the audit periods under review.

The new reconciliation committee will collaborate with Customs officials and auditors to resolve the remaining discrepancies before any additional legislative steps are taken.

States Now Have More Funds for Development Under Tinubu – Onanuga

2026-06-17T10:32:21.066+01:00

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has said that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms have boosted resources available to state governments for development projects.

Onanuga made the remark on Tuesday in Umuahia during a reception for participants of the Renewed Hope Projects media tour, who were visiting the state to inspect ongoing federal and state projects.

He emphasised the growing collaboration between the federal and state governments, noting that states now have more resources to execute projects that directly improve the lives of citizens.“The federal and state governments are working together for the progress of Nigerians. The resources now available to states are enabling them to undertake projects that improve the lives of citizens,” Onanuga stated.

The presidential aide described the media tour as an opportunity for participants to objectively assess key projects and appreciate the developmental strides being made across the country.

Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a step towards promoting transparency and public awareness of government projects. He highlighted his administration’s efforts in infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, and economic growth over the past three years.

The governor commended the Presidency for organising the media tour, which he said provides Nigerians with firsthand information on government initiatives.

Troops Rescue Four Kidnapped Victims While Tracking Bandit Leader Kachalla

2026-06-17T10:21:00.735+01:00

Nigerian Army troops have successfully rescued four kidnapped victims during ongoing operations to track and apprehend the notorious bandit leader Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and his gang.

The Katsina State Government confirmed the rescue on Wednesday, stating that the victims were freed as part of sustained military efforts in areas where the criminals are known to operate.The rescued individuals have been identified as:Musa Yakuba, 62 years old

Alhaji Sa’adu Dayi, 68 years old

Mukhtar Danja, 36 years old

Salisu Danja, 50 years old

According to a statement by Dr. Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, the victims sustained gunshot injuries during their captivity and were immediately taken for medical examination after their release.

The state government praised the Nigerian military and other security agencies involved in the operation for their efforts. It also reassured residents that security forces will continue pursuing Kachalla Muhammadu Fulani and other criminal elements to ensure the safety of lives and property in the state.

This latest rescue highlights the intensified military campaign against banditry in the region.

‘I’m ready to die for Nigeria’ – Peter Obi

2026-06-17T10:10:55.549+01:00

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, says he is ready to die for Nigeria.

Obi made this statement in an interview aired by Nevon Media on Tuesday.

According to him, one person must be in charge of addressing the country’s security challenges.

“I said one person must be in charge. We declare war. If you’re ready to live, you must be ready to die. If you’re not ready to die, go home,” he said.

Obi reiterated that he as no reason to hold the passport of any other country.

“I’m ready to die for Nigeria. It’s one country. We cannot have non-state actors take over the state,” Obi said.

Three police officers killed as IED explodes on Zamfara road

2026-06-17T10:10:32.505+01:00

Three police officers have been killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded on the Anka–Bagega road in Anka LGA of Zamfara state.

According to security sources quoted by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the incident occurred around 5:05pm on June 15.

The officers were part of a team led by Abdulrazak Musa Hassan, the officer in charge of the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) unit, who had gone to defuse a suspected explosive device believed to have been planted by bandits.

“The team, which included personnel of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), was reportedly conducting a controlled clearance operation using an armoured personnel carrier when the vehicle accidentally triggered the explosive device,” Makama said.

“The explosion resulted in the immediate death of SP Abdulrazak Musa Hassan, Inspector Murtala Musa of the VCRU, and Inspector Auwal Ahmad attached to the EOD unit.

“Their bodies were evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Gusau, for post-mortem examination.”

The publication reported that the bodies of the officers have been taken to a hospital morgue as authorities investigate the incident.

According to Makama, security has been strengthened in the area, and efforts are ongoing to clear the road and prevent further attacks.