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I begged Kwankwaso to be Peter Obi’s running mate – Aisha Yesufu

2026-06-24T18:46:48.615+01:00

A member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Aisha Yesufu, on Wednesday disclosed that she begged former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to be the party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi’s running mate four years ago.

Yesufu, who noted that some things take longer than they should, vowed never to be distracted in her support for Obi and Kwankwaso.

Posting on X, the activist wrote: “Some things in life take longer than they should. Like the saying goes, better late than never.

“4 years ago, I literally begged @KwankwasoRM to be Peter Obi’s running mate.

“Now that it is happening, you think I am going to be distracted? No way. Let’s get it done.”

Oba of Benin fixes July 2 for traditionalists to ‘place curses on kidnappers’

2026-06-24T18:44:06.897+01:00

Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, has directed traditional worshippers across Edo-south senatorial district to embark on a spiritual warfare against kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent criminals operating in Edo state.

According to NAN, the monarch gave the directive on Tuesday during a meeting with native doctors, priests, priestesses and other adherents of traditional religion at his palace in Benin City.

The Oba of Benin said the exercise would involve prayers and spiritual interventions aimed at restoring peace and security in the state.

“The message is from the ancestors. Edo people at home and in the diaspora should hear this,” he said.

“The criminals should know that God Almighty and our ancestors will not allow their evil to prevail in Edo.”

Speaking through Osaigbovo Osamwonyi, Akenuwa of Benin, the monarch said the growing wave of insecurity and other social vices in the state had become a source of concern.

“Today is a great day. I welcome you with the power of our ancestors. Many things that are not supposed to be happening are happening in this state. We have to pray. Those who want to destroy the kingdom will not succeed,” he said.

The monarch said the spiritual exercise was intended to complement efforts by the Edo state government and security agencies to maintain peace and order.

“You all know what is happening. The Oba is trying to bring peace. All the bad things are what we want to wipe away. Use all that you have to send all the wicked ones away so that we can sleep with our eyes closed.

“We don’t want kidnapping, armed robbery and other social vices in this state. We want peace. The palace has done much behind closed doors. Use all that you have to chase away wicked ones.”

Oba of Benin instructed the traditionalists to continue the spiritual exercise over the coming days before returning to the palace on July 2.

“After 10 days, you all will return to the palace with all you have to place curses on those involved in these evil acts. We want to see change,” he said.

APC unveils election-monitoring situation room for Nigeria’s 176,846 polling units

2026-06-24T18:43:58.896+01:00

Mary Alile-Idele, the national women leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has unveiled a situation room designed to monitor political activities and track developments across Nigeria’s 176,846 polling units.

Alile-Idele announced the initiative on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Tinubu Torchbearers (TTB) national secretariat in Abuja.

She said the facility would provide real-time monitoring of the activities of the Tinubu Torchbearers nationwide while also serving as a strategic election-monitoring platform.

“Your Excellency, permit me to also inform you that one of the innovative facilities within this secretariat is the women situation room,” she said.

“This state-of-the-art platform will enable real-time monitoring of TTB activities nationwide.

“Beyond campaign activities, the women situation room will serve as a strategic election-monitoring and coordination centre capable of tracking developments across Nigeria’s 176,846 polling units.”

Alile-Idele said details of the initiative would be formally forwarded to the presidency for further consideration and engagement.

The APC women leader said the Tinubu Torchbearers movement has expanded significantly since its inauguration, with structures established in all 774 LGAs and 8,809 wards across the country.

“Today, I am pleased to announce that all 774 local government coordinators have successfully exchanged the torchlight with the 8,809 ward coordinators across Nigeria,” she said.

“This extraordinary achievement reflects the strength, structure, and reach of the Tinubu Torchbearers movement.”

She added that the movement is promoting the achievements and policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration at the grassroots.

“The message of the achievements, policies, and programmes of the President is reaching communities, wards, local governments, and states throughout the country,” she said.

Alile-Idele described the newly inaugurated secretariat as a strategic facility that would coordinate and drive the activities of the organisation nationwide.

“The commissioning of this national secretariat is therefore both symbolic and strategic. This secretariat will serve as the operational hub of the Tinubu Torchbearers movement nationwide,” she said.

“It will coordinate, administer, monitor, and drive the activities of TTB across all levels of engagement.”

She added that several states, including Abia and Edo, have already secured offices for the movement.

Alile-Idele also unveiled the “Do Know & Benefit” digital wristband initiative, which she said would enable citizens to access information on government programmes and achievements through their mobile devices.

“With a simple scan of the wristband, users can instantly access comprehensive information on the programmes, achievements, and benefits of the Renewed Hope administration through their mobile devices,” she said.

According to her, the initiative is aimed at strengthening political communication and engagement with young people, market women, farmers, artisans, and grassroots communities.

Alile-Idele reaffirmed the support of women across the country for the Tinubu administration and pledged continued mobilisation for the APC and the renewed hope agenda.

“We are prepared. We are organized. We are mobilised. We shall continue to strengthen the grassroots, illuminate communities with the message of Renewed Hope, and work tirelessly to ensure the success of this administration,” she added.

Tinubu harassing El-Rufai for dumping APC – Atiku’s aide Paul Ibe

2026-06-24T18:43:52.488+01:00

Paul Ibe, a media aide to Africa Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has lamented that former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai has spent 126 days in detention.

Ibe said El-Rufai’s detention has shown that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is harassing and intimidating the former governor for defecting from the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Posting on his Facebook page, Ibe described El-Rufai’s ongoing trial as a sham.

He wrote: “Yesterday marked day 126 of the abduction and detention of Mallam Nasir el-Rufai @elrufai, former Governor of Kaduna State and chieftain of the @ADCNig.

“By now, it should be clear to all, irrespective of political leaning that the Tinubu-led APC administration is harassing and intimidating el-Rufai for having parted ways with the APC.

“The sham trial of the ADC chieftain is politically motivated. We’ve gathered from those asking him to go and make “peace” (whatever that means) with President Bola Tinubu, because he (Tinubu) is allegedly focused on keeping him until after the 2027 elections.

“The adjournment of his case to September appears to confirm this. Meanwhile, the conditions of the bail granted to el-Rufai is too punitive and meant to keep him perpetually in detention.

“In fact, the bail conditions only encourages civil servants to loot maximally and acquire assets and properties at all cost while in service.”

DNA test result shows unidentified body dropped at Ikorodu morgue was Pelumi Onifade - Coroner

2026-06-24T18:43:31.886+01:00

A DNA test result presented by the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre to the coroner has confirmed that a previously unidentified body was that of Pelumi Onifade, a reporter with Gboah TV.

The unidentified body, tagged 1385, was said to have been deposited at the morgue at Ikorodu General Hospital on November 3, 2020.

Temitope Oladele, the investigating magistrate, on Tuesday, announced that she had received a sealed report from the Lagos DNA Centre.

Oladele said the report confirmed a DNA match between the body and the DNA sample provided by Adebose Onifade, the mother of the late journalist.

BACKGROUND

On October 24, 2020, Onifade was reportedly taken away by police officers attached to the Lagos task force while covering a mob attack at a government facility in the Agege area of Lagos.

He was said to have been forcefully taken away despite wearing a jacket identifying him as a reporter.

Days later, Gboah TV announced that the body of Onifade was discovered at a mortuary in the Ikorodu area of Lagos.

On July 19, 2024, the federal high court in Lagos ordered the state government to conduct a coroner’s inquest to ascertain the cause of Onifade’s death as well as identify and prosecute those responsible.

In October 2024, the coroner commenced hearing.

On November 18, 2025, the coroner ordered the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) to perform a post-mortem examination of the unidentified body tagged 1385, which was received from Ikorodu hospital.

On March 3, 2026, Alimi Adamu, lead counsel to Media Rights Agenda (MRA), told the coroner that the protracted strike at LASUTH, which had stalled progress in the case since the earlier order was made, had been called off.

Adamu applied for a fresh order to be directed specifically to the chief medical director of LASUTH.

In April, LASUTH said the body of Onifade could not be identified because all DNA samples held at the state’s DNA and Forensic Centre were destroyed during the #EndSARS protest of October 2020.

TUESDAY’S COURT PROCEEDINGS

During the court proceedings on Tuesday, Adamu asked whether LASUTH had complied with the previous orders of the court.

The investigating magistrate said she did not receive any response from LASUTH, but received a document from the Lagos DNA and Forensic centre.

The magistrate said the report confirmed a DNA match between the previously unidentified body and the DNA sample provided by the deceased’s mother.

Oladele said she does not want to make a case for the hospital, but she believes that the autopsy has already been conducted or ought to have been done.

Responding, Adamu said he appreciated the coroner’s empathy with LASUTH and that the parents of the deceased have endured prolonged wait for answers and closure.

The lead counsel suggested that the court should issue another order for LASUTH to present the autopsy reports.

The coroner said administrative options should first be explored before any coercive step is taken.

The magistrate, however, directed that a final administrative reminder be issued to LASUTH for the immediate production of the autopsy report.

She also urged MRA’s lawyers to physically visit LASUTH to facilitate compliance rather than relying solely on formal correspondence.

The magistrate added that the court will invoke its power to compel the production of the report if the administrative efforts fail.

The case was adjourned to July 7, 2026.

FG, army sued over ‘indiscriminate’ military checkpoints in south-east

2026-06-24T18:40:24.351+01:00

Chinedu Agbodike, a citizen, has initiated legal action against the federal government and the Nigerian Army over what he described as “indiscriminate proliferation” of military checkpoints in the south-east geopolitical zone.

The suit was filed at the High Court of Enugu State on June 17, 2026.

Agbodike is the applicant in the suit, filed on his behalf and on behalf of citizens of Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, and Abia states.

Counsel to the applicant are Aloy Ejimakor, P.N Agazie, B.C. Anys, B.K Agazie, Chinwe Agazie, Eguzoribe Ozioma, E.C Eze, and Iloanya Florence.

The respondents are the chief of army staff (first respondent), Nigerian army (second respondent), attorney-general of the federation (third respondent), and federal government (fourth respondent).

THE PRAYERS

The lawyer asked the court to declare that the “indiscriminate deployment” of military checkpoints and roadblocks in the south-east zone, which according to them, have allegedly resulted in harassment, extortion, and arbitrary arrests, constitute violations of the fundamental human rights of citizens.

The lawyer asked the court to declare illegal and unconstitutional the “routine” deployment of military personnel for checkpoints duties and roadblock operations in the south-east.

“A DECLARATION that the assumption by the 1st and 2nd Respondents of internal policing functions constitutionally vested in the Nigeria Police Force under Section 214 of the Constitution amounts to an unlawful usurpation of powers and is therefore unconstitutional and same constitutes abuse and violation of human rights of the people of South Eastern Nigeria,” part of the suit reads.

“A DECLARATION that the excessive militarization of Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo and Abia States amounts to an unjustifiable and disproportionate interference with the rights to freedom of movement, personal liberty, human dignity and freedom from discrimination guaranteed under Chapter IV of the Constitution, thereby violating the constitutional rights of the people of South Eastern Nigeria.

“A DECLARATION that the discriminatory profiling and targeting of citizens by the 1st and 2nd Respondents at various military checkpoints/roadblocks on the roads of Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi, Anambra and Imo States on account of their ethnicity, age, mode of dressing, hairstyle, tattoos, language, physical appearance or perceived affiliations is unconstitutional, illegal, oppressive and a violation of their Constitutional rights under Chapter IV of the Constitution, particularly Section 42 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.”

The lawyer sought an order directly the first to third respondents to “immediately dismantle, remove and discontinue all military checkpoints and routine roadblocks operating on federal and state roads within Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo and Abia States except where such deployments are specifically authorised by law and justified by exceptional security circumstances, in accordance with due process of law”.

The lawyer asked the court to order the attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice to establish a panel to investigate human rights violations allegedly committed by military personnel at checkpoints in the south-east.

The lawyer sought N500 billion as “exemplary, aggravated and general damages against the Respondents jointly and severally for the widespread and continuing violation of the fundamental rights of citizens of the South-East Region of Nigeria”.

Elon Musk suffers largest personal wealth loss after SpaceX stock decline

2026-06-24T18:40:17.125+01:00

Elon Musk, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Tesla, has suffered the biggest loss of personal wealth ever recorded after a sharp decline in the value of SpaceX erased about $350 billion from his fortune in one week.

According to Forbes on Tuesday, Musk’s net worth fell from $1.45 trillion to just under $1.1 trillion following a nearly 30 percent drop in SpaceX’s share price from its peak on June 16.

SpaceX shares had reportedly surged to as much as 67 percent during the first three days of trading after the company’s record-breaking initial public offering (IPO), which valued it at more than $1.8 trillion.

However, the stock has since declined for three consecutive trading sessions, wiping out roughly $928 billion in market value from a peak of $2.9 trillion to about $2 trillion.

Musk’s fortune is said to be largely tied to his 38 percent stake in SpaceX, in addition to his 11 percent holding in Tesla and investments in several other ventures.

The Forbes report also said SpaceX recorded its steepest one-day decline as a publicly listed company on Monday, falling 16.4 percent after unveiling plans for its first investment-grade bond offering aimed at raising at least $20 billion to support its artificial intelligence expansion.

The stock closed at $154 on Monday — above the company’s IPO price of $135 on June 12.

Musk became the world’s first trillionaire after the successful IPO of SpaceX, with his net worth climbing to $1 trillion on June 12, from $707 billion recorded two days before.

FG backs US sanctions on Nigerians, BDCs ‘linked to terror financing’

2026-06-24T18:32:07.464+01:00

The Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NSC) has welcomed the decision of the United States to sanction three bureau de change (BDC) firms and individuals over alleged links to terrorism financing.

On Tuesday, the US Treasury Department designated Mukhtar Adamu and three Nigerian BDC firms for allegedly facilitating financial transactions on behalf of ISIS.

The US said Adamu used his businesses in Lagos and Kano as conduits for moving funds linked to the terrorist group.

The firms named by Washington are Generation Currency Bureau De Change Limited, Nine to Nine Exchange Bureau De Change Limited, and Manhattan Bureau De Change Limited.

The sanctions were part of a broader crackdown targeting individuals and entities across Europe, the Middle East, and West Africa accused of helping ISIS move funds across borders.

In a statement on Wednesday, the committee said the US action followed the inclusion of Adamu and his companies in the Nigeria Sanctions List published on June 18, 2026.

“The Nigeria Sanctions Committee welcomes the recent inclusion of Mukthar Muhammad Adamu, Nine to Nine BDC and Generation BDC Limited by the United States Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) yesterday,” the statement reads

The committee said the designation was based on extensive intelligence gathering, financial investigations, and inter-agency assessments.

According to the NSC, there were reasonable grounds to believe that the affected individuals and entities “facilitated, financed, supported or otherwise contributed” to the activities of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and associated terrorist networks.

The federal government reiterated its directive to financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions to comply with sanctions obligations, including freezing assets, filing suspicious transaction reports, and reporting relevant matches to authorities.

The committee also commended the federal ministry of justice, office of the national security adviser (ONSA), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Department of State Services (DSS), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for their roles in disrupting terrorist financing networks.

The NSC added that Nigeria remains committed to ensuring that terrorists and their financiers have no safe haven within the country’s financial system.

The committee said the government would continue to collaborate with domestic and international partners to strengthen financial integrity and combat terrorism financing.

Those added to the Nigeria sanctions list include:

1. Ibrahim Yakubu Ogirima (NLISWi.19)

2. Mukhtar Muhammad Adamu (NLISWi.20)

3. Adamu Chiroma (NLISWi.21)

4. Ibrahim Abubakar (NLISWi.22)

5. Abdullahi Umar Usman (NLISWi.23)

6. Babangida Muhammed Adamu Hammajam (NLISWi.24)

7. Abbal Bako & Sons Bureau De Change Limited (NLISWe.25)

8. Generation Currency BDC Limited (NLISWe.26)

9. Nine to Nine BDC Limited (NLISWe.27)

Ondo Amotekun Arrests Couple for Burgling Ex-Speaker’s Home, 44 Others for Crimes

2026-06-24T17:37:49.089+01:00

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, has arrested 46 suspected criminals across the state’s 18 local government areas.

Among those paraded was a couple, Samson Osowe (28) and his wife, Ayo Oguneso (22), accused of burgling the residence of former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Jumoke Akindele, in Okitipupa.

Seven stolen mobile phones and other valuables were recovered, and an attempt to smuggle the items to Lagos was foiled.

Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed that the suspects, along with their accomplice and transporter, would face trial. He assured that the recovered items would be returned to the former Speaker.

Beyond the burglary case, Adeleye disclosed that 13 suspects were arrested for kidnapping, two for violating the anti-open grazing law, and 31 others for offences including cultism, illegal possession of firearms, theft, and breach of peace.

The commander emphasized the corps’ commitment to maintaining security across Ondo, noting that the arrests were part of intensified patrols during the Salla

h period.

BREAKING: Senate passes state police bill

2026-06-24T17:33:06.135+01:00

The Senate has passed a constitutional amendment bill to establish state police nationwide.

The bill was approved on Wednesday after lawmakers considered and adopted its 26 clauses during the committee of the whole.

The proposed legislation seeks to create a constitutional framework for state-controlled police services alongside the existing federal policing structure.

The bill aims to strengthen security, improve intelligence gathering and enable faster responses to local security threats.

‘ONE OF THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CONSTITUTIONAL REFORMS’

Opening debate on the bill, Opeyemi Bamidele, senate leader, said the proposed legislation was an executive bill transmitted by President Bola Tinubu.

Bamidele described the legislation as one of the most significant constitutional reforms since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.

“This important Bill is an Executive Bill transmitted by Mr. President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, seeking to alter the Constitution to provide for the establishment of State Police Services and other related matters,” he said.

“This Bill represents one of the most significant constitutional reforms in our nation’s democratic evolution. It addresses a long-standing national conversation on the structure, effectiveness, responsiveness and sustainability of policing in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

He said the current centralised policing structure had come under pressure due to the increasing complexity of security threats across the country.

“The increasing complexity of security threats, which include terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts, farmer-herder clashes, cybercrime, organised criminal networks and other transnational crimes, have placed enormous pressure on the existing policing framework,” Bamidele said.

He said the proposed amendments would preserve the federal police while creating constitutional pathways for states to establish their own police services.

According to him, states that choose to establish police services would be required to do so through legislation passed by their houses of assembly and meet national minimum standards prescribed by the national assembly.

He said the federal police would retain responsibility for counter-terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, border security, arms trafficking, policing of the federal capital territory and other national security matters.

The lawmaker added that state police services would be responsible for enforcing state laws, maintaining public order, preventing and detecting crimes within their jurisdictions and protecting lives and property.

Bamidele said the bill contains safeguards against political abuse by prohibiting governors from directing state police services to unlawfully target individuals, political parties, groups or associations.

He added that the legislation prohibits the use of police powers for partisan, ethnic, religious, sectional or personal purposes.

‘MY POSITION ON STATE POLICE HAS CHANGED’

Contributing to the debate, Enyinnaya Abaribe, senator representing Abia south, said he previously opposed the creation of state police but had changed his position because of the country’s worsening security situation.

“Mr. President, I used to be one of those that is against state police. Mark my words; I used to be,” he said.

”But today, we know that we have very serious insecurity problem that can only be solved by thinking outside the box. And I think that this is part of it.”

Abaribe said the greater concern lies in the provisions of the proposed police legislation that would operationalise the constitutional amendment.

“But our issue on this is actually what goes into the police act. It’s not really the amendment of the constitution. Because you can amend the constitution but then in the act, matters of usage of the police is where most Nigerians are bothered about,” he said.

The opposition lawmaker warned against granting excessive powers to the president to take over a state police service.

“We cannot have a situation where the president just looks at a state, maybe he’s not in good terms with the governor, and decides that he will take it over,” he said.

Abaribe also raised concerns about funding arrangements for state police services.

He said allocations meant for state police commissions should be guaranteed by the constitution and paid directly to the commissions to prevent political interference.

“So that what we are seeing today, with regard to local government funds, we don’t have to see it with the police,” he said.

“I support this bill and I ask my colleagues to please also support it, provided we put the safeguards that we guarantee each Nigerian his rights.”

‘STATE POLICE WILL STRENGTHEN FEDERALISM’

Aminu Tambuwal, senator representing Sokoto south, said he had consistently supported state police as part of efforts to deepen federalism in Nigeria.

“Mr. President, let me make it clear that I am in support of this bill and I am in support of the idea of state police,” he said.

“I have been consistent on this, not only when I was in the House of Reps as Speaker and as Governor of Sokoto State, even while here in the Senate, in the number of interviews I granted, I alluded to the fact that I support state police because I believe that that will also be a major leap into entrenchment of federalism in Nigeria.”

Tambuwal cited attacks in Sokoto state as evidence of the need for alternative security approaches.

“Only about three or four years ago, in my senatorial district, we lost over 80 people in Dange Shuni local government. Only three or four days ago, in the same local government, we lost some personnel of police that were there on rescue mission to send away bandits,” he said.

“So that is a clear picture of what is happening in most parts of the country. This is needed. Every effort, any effort to curb this menace of insecurity in Nigeria is needed.”

Tambuwal echoed Abaribe’s concerns about safeguards against abuse by state authorities.

“We must have safeguards that will now ensure that there is no abuse on the part of those who are today in that position that we have left. And those who are coming, even those from amongst us, to this position of being governors of particular states,” he said.

The legislator urged lawmakers to support all efforts aimed at improving security across the country.

“I believe that the Senate of this country, we must ensure that we support Mr. President, support the security agencies in every effort that will establish security in every part of this country,” he said.

For the constitutional amendments to take effect, the bill must secure the approval of at least two-thirds of the state houses of assembly before being transmitted to the president for assent.

PDP faction to Yilwatda: We loaned Wike to APC-led FG, no plan for permanent transfer

2026-06-24T17:33:02.035+01:00

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, has described Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as its “finest political talent”, saying there is no plan to allow him to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

On Monday, Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the APC, said he wished he could poach Wike from the PDP.

Yilwatda, who spoke during the flag-off of the construction of road projects in Abuja, lauded Wike’s performance as FCT minister, describing him as hardworking and tireless.

But in a statement issued on Wednesday, Jungudo Mohammed, the national publicity secretary of the Mohammed PDP faction, said Wike’s role in President Bola Tinubu’s administration should be seen only as a temporary arrangement.

He said the PDP has no intention of relinquishing one of its “finest political talents” regardless of any overtures from the ruling party.

“While we welcome the open admiration expressed by the APC National Chairman and the glowing accolades showered on our National Leader, it is necessary to clarify that Barrister Wike remains a committed and loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party,” the statement reads.

“As Professor Yilwatda himself implied, Barrister Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration is best described as a loan arrangement, and we wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal.

“We further wish to state that the PDP has no intention whatsoever of parting with one of its most valuable political assets, regardless of any offers or overtures that may be made. The APC is therefore advised to refrain from entertaining any hopes of a permanent acquisition, as such a move would be firmly resisted.

“The PDP is not in the business of disposing of its finest political talents. Barrister Nyesom Wike remains one of the Party’s most valuable assets, and there are no plans, ongoing negotiations, hidden clauses, or future options that would permit a permanent move.

“His service in the current APC-led administration should not be misconstrued as a possible political transfer. It does not in any way alter his political identity or diminish his longstanding loyalty, commitment, and immense contributions to the Peoples Democratic Party.

“The present leadership of the Party fully acknowledges, appreciates, and remains grateful for his invaluable role in strengthening and advancing the PDP over the years.

“It is not in doubt that, through his visionary leadership, commitment to service, and execution of numerous landmark projects, Barrister Wike has transformed critical aspects of the nation’s capital, earning commendation from citizens across political, ethnic, and religious divides. The PDP is proud of its exceptional performance as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.”

Mohammed said the PDP has several other capable leaders who, if given similar opportunities, would outperform many officeholders in the current administration.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers state and a member of the PDP, was appointed as FCT minister by Tinubu in 2023.

Bill Gates Tells Congress Epstein Planned to Blackmail Him Over Affairs

2026-06-24T17:32:13.725+01:00

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has told the U.S. Congress that Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and convicted sex offender, had considered blackmailing him over his extramarital affairs.

Testifying before the House Oversight Committee on June 10, Gates said Epstein made “veiled” threats and appeared to be rehearsing ways to exploit knowledge of Gates’s private life to keep him within his circle, even as Gates sought to distance himself.

“I was not blackmailed, but… it looks like Mr. Epstein’s brainstorming was going in that direction,” Gates said, referring to draft emails uncovered in documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice earlier this year.

He clarified that none of the messages were ever sent to him.Gates, 70, reiterated that he had never been aware of Epstein’s criminal activities and had “never victimized anyone.” He admitted earlier this year to having extramarital affairs with two Russian women, describing his association with Epstein as a “major mistake.”

Their relationship began in 2011, three years after Epstein’s conviction for prostitution charges involving minors.

Gates acknowledged knowing of Epstein’s legal troubles but said he had been told Epstein could raise billions for global health initiatives.

While Gates stressed that mere mention in Epstein’s files does not imply wrongdoing, the documents highlight connections between Epstein and prominent figures who often downplayed their ties to him.

FG Discovers Major Platinum, Lithium, Rare Metals Deposits in Kaduna

2026-06-24T17:28:09.806+01:00

The Federal Government has announced a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector with the discovery of a world-class polymetallic mineral province in Kaduna State.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, revealed the find at the African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit in Abuja, noting that the deposits include platinum group metals, gold, nickel, copper, lithium, and rare earth elements.

Alake described the discovery, verified by the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency, as one of the most important in recent years, positioning Nigeria as an emerging hub for strategic minerals critical to clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is shifting focus from raw mineral exports to local processing and value addition, citing billions of dollars already committed to lithium factories, gold refineries, and iron-to-steel projects across the country.

Government revenues from mining have also surged, rising from about ₦6bn before the reforms to over ₦70bn by the end of 2025.

Meanwhile, delegates at the summit toured Steron Mining’s Abuja site, where the company reported lithium reserves of 3.3 million metric tonnes and total mineral resources of 94.8 million metric tonnes.

Alake urged investors to embrace partnerships that support local processing, technology transfer, and community development, stressing that Nigeria is “open for serious business” and determined to retain more value within its borders.

Call Nwifuru to Order Over Threats Against Opposition – Coalition Tells Tinubu

2026-06-24T17:14:09.963+01:00

The Nigerian Youth Organisation (NYO), a coalition of youth groups, has called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to caution Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru over alleged threats directed at opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, NYO Deputy National President, Comrade Nasir Doka, warned that Governor Nwifuru’s “inflammatory rhetoric” against political actors, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-East, poses a danger to democratic engagement.

Doka stressed that public office holders must recognise the weight of their words, noting that the governor’s comments have raised concerns among Nigerians, especially young people, who view such language as intimidating and inconsistent with democratic values.

“Democracy is sustained by tolerance, dissent, criticism, and competition of ideas. No democracy can thrive where opposition voices fear intimidation,” the NYO stated.

The coalition emphasized that constitutional rights such as freedom of expression, association, and political participation are not privileges granted by government officials but fundamental entitlements of every Nigerian citizen.

It urged stakeholders to remain vigilant against rhetoric that could undermine Nigeria’s democracy, calling on Governor Nwifuru to publicly reaffirm his commitment to political tolerance and constitutional freedoms.

The NYO also appealed to security agencies to ensure political rhetoric is not misinterpreted as a licence for intimidation or violence, while encouraging political parties and leaders nationwide to embrace responsible communication.

Finally, the group urged Ebonyi youths to remain calm, restrained, and committed to peace as the nation approaches the 2027 elections.

Court Adjourns Ganduje Misappropriation Trial to October 14

2026-06-24T17:12:24.958+01:00

The trial of former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, and seven others over alleged misappropriation of public funds has been adjourned until October 14 by the Kano State High Court.

Ganduje, alongside his wife Hafsat Umar, faces an 11-count charge bordering on bribery, conspiracy, misappropriation, and diversion of billions of naira.

Other defendants include Abubakar Bawuro, Abdullahi Umar, Jibrilla Muhammad, Lamash Properties Ltd, Safari Textiles Ltd, and Lasage General Enterprises Ltd.

At Wednesday’s hearing, prosecution counsel Victor Oni informed the court that the state was ready to proceed and sought to withdraw an earlier motion filed on March 31, substituting it with a fresh application dated May 15.

The defence, represented by Mrs Lydia Oluwakemi-Oyewo and other counsels, raised no objections.Counsel to the sixth defendant, however, filed a preliminary objection and requested a date for hearing.

Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu subsequently struck out the prosecution’s earlier motion and adjourned the matter to October 14 for consideration of the objection.

Anambra Security Outfit Kills Three Gunmen Who Attacked Soludo’s Aide Convoy

2026-06-24T16:37:55.664+01:00

The Anambra State-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, has successfully dislodged a terror group’s camp in Aguata Local Government Area, killing three armed men while several others escaped with gunshot wounds.

The operation, carried out Tuesday night by Agunechemba operatives attached to the FOB Unit in Aguata, led to the recovery of a Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles, the gang’s operational white Hilux van, charms, handbags, and other incriminating items.

In a statement on Wednesday, Agunechemba’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Nweke Nweke, revealed that the gang had previously attacked the convoy of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s Chief of Staff, Ben Nwankwo, killing four people, including two police officers and two civilians.

According to Nweke, the raid was conducted in partnership with the police after intelligence gathering pinpointed the gang’s hideout. During a fierce gun battle, three members of the group were neutralised.

“This gang had been masquerading in Federal Government security uniforms and had previously attacked the convoy of the Chief of Staff to Governor Soludo. Their downfall came during a firepower encounter with our operatives,” the statement read.

The gang was reportedly operating across Anambra South Senatorial District, engaging in kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.

Prince Ken Emekayi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security; Sylvester Ofodeme, Chairman of the State House of Assembly Committee on Internal Security; and Chief Chinenye Ihenko, Agunechemba’s Head of Operations, hailed the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity.

The recovered weapons and vehicle are expected to aid further investigations into the group’s activities.

This latest success underscores the state government’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on criminal networks and restore peace across Anambra.

France confirms first-ever Ebola case after doctor’s return from DR Congo

2026-06-24T15:48:42.688+01:00

France has recorded its first confirmed case of Ebola virus disease, with health authorities tracing the infection to a doctor who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The French health ministry announced the development on Tuesday, describing it as the first time the highly infectious viral disease has been detected within the country.

According to AFP, the patient was identified shortly after arriving in France from the DRC, where an Ebola outbreak has been ongoing for months.

Health officials said the doctor was isolated immediately upon arrival, before laboratory tests later confirmed the infection.

The ministry said the case was detected in mainland France and stressed that containment measures were activated promptly to prevent any potential spread of the virus.

Sebastien Lecornu, France’s prime minister, said authorities were monitoring the situation “very closely” and working to ensure that all necessary public health protocols were followed.

The case marks the first confirmed Ebola infection reported outside Africa since the latest outbreak began in Central Africa.

The current outbreak has primarily affected the Democratic Republic of Congo, while Uganda has also recorded infections.

The DRC declared its 17th Ebola outbreak on May 15 following a series of unexplained deaths in the eastern province of Ituri.

In June, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported that Uganda and the DRC had recorded a combined 894 confirmed Ebola cases and 204 deaths.

Ebola is a severe viral haemorrhagic fever that spreads through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected persons. Symptoms often include fever, fatigue, muscle pain, vomiting and, in severe cases, internal and external bleeding.

French health authorities have not disclosed further details about the patient but said surveillance and contact-tracing measures are underway.

US senate backs reps resolution directing Trump to end Iran war

2026-06-24T15:48:33.855+01:00

The United States senate has passed a resolution calling for an end to President Donald Trump’s war with Iran, in a symbolic rebuke from a Republican-controlled congress to the White House.

The senate voted 50 to 48 on Tuesday, with four Republicans joining Democrats.

Earlier this month, the house approved the measure.

The resolution directs Trump to remove US forces from hostilities with Iran unless congress explicitly authorises military action.

Because the measure is a “concurrent resolution”, it does not go to Trump’s desk for signature and carries disputed legal force.

However, its passage still puts both chambers of congress on record against a conflict that began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, rattling global energy markets and opening a broader regional war involving Gulf states.

The measure comes with the administration expected to ask congress to authorise tens of billions of dollars to pay for the war.

Tuesday’s vote also comes at a moment when the US and Iran are engaged in negotiations to permanently end the conflict

Trump slammed the vote on his Truth Social platform, calling it “poorly timed and meaningless”.

“These Senators have just made my job more difficult, but I will get it done, one way or the other, because I always get it done!” he said.

The White House said the resolutions seeking to curb Trump’s powers to wage war in Iran are unconstitutional, noting that the conflict had already ended under an April ceasefire.

It added that restricting the president’s authority could weaken Washington’s leverage as negotiators seek to lock in a final deal with Iran.

However lawmakers say the fighting continued well beyond the legal deadline and that Trump has repeatedly threatened renewed strikes.

Tinubu Seeks Senate Confirmation of Ex-FUOYE VC as Ambassador

2026-06-24T15:30:54.093+01:00

President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Professor Abayomi Fashina, immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, as a non-career ambassador and high commissioner-designate.

The request was conveyed in a letter read during Wednesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Tinubu explained that the nomination was made in line with constitutional provisions guiding diplomatic appointments and urged lawmakers to act swiftly.

“In accordance with the provisions of section 121, subsections 2, 3, and 4 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate the nomination of Professor Abayomi Sunday-Fashina as non-career ambassador/high commissioner-designate,” the letter stated.

Akpabio subsequently referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for screening. The committee is expected to scrutinize Fashina’s credentials and submit its report within one week, after which the Senate will vote on his confirmation.

The appointment is part of the Tinubu administration’s broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic corps, with a mix of career and non-career envoys being deployed to strategic foreign missions.

By constitutional requirement, ambassadorial nominees must undergo Senate screening to assess their competence, professional background, and suitability for diplomatic service. Non-career ambassadors are typically drawn from academia, politics, public administration, and other sectors where they have demonstrated leadership and distinguished service.

Fashina, an academic and administrator, is widely recognized in Nigeria’s higher education sector, having served as Vice Chancellor of FUOYE. His nomination is expected to attract close legislative scrutiny during the screening process.

If confirmed, he will join other ambassadorial appointees tasked with advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives, strengthening bilateral relations, and promoting the country’s economic and diplomatic interests abroad.

The Senate is expected to conclude consideration of the nomination once the Foreign Affairs Committee submits its report next week.

Army Foils IPOB/ESN Plot, Seizes Weapons in Anambra

2026-06-24T15:01:36.037+01:00

Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, working alongside sister services and security agencies, have achieved a significant breakthrough against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Anambra State.

Acting on credible intelligence, the joint team intercepted armed criminals disguised in military and police uniforms along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area on 23 June 2026.

The suspects, travelling in a white Toyota Sienna, engaged troops in a fierce firefight that left three ESN operatives neutralised.

A subsequent sweep of the area uncovered a cache of weapons and explosives, including a PKM machine gun with 53 rounds, two AK-47 rifles, assorted ammunition, four improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication gadgets, a laptop, and the vehicle used by the suspects.

Identification and financial documents linked to the group were also recovered.The Nigerian Army emphasized that the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led, joint security efforts aimed at dismantling criminal and terrorist networks undermining peace in the South-East.

Troops are continuing to track fleeing members of the group.

Authorities reassured residents of their commitment to safeguarding communities and urged the public to provide timely, credible information to security agencies, stressing that collective vigilance is vital to sustaining operational successes and ensuring national security.

Ini Dima-Okojie, husband welcome baby boy

2026-06-24T15:00:38.229+01:00

Ini Dima-Okojie, the Nigerian actress, and Abasi Ene-Obong, her husband, have welcomed their first child together.

The Nollywood star took to her Instagram page on Wednesday to share photos of herself cradling the infant.

However, she chose to keep certain details private, declining to disclose the child’s name or date of birth.

Ini, who turned 36 on June 24, said she is trading birthday photoshoots to celebrate herself as a new mother.

The actress shared an intimate reflection on her transition into motherhood, a role she described as more transformative than any she has ever played on screen.

“Every year, my birthday comes with a photoshoot, glam, and a carefully planned concept. This year, none of that felt quite right,” she wrote.

“There is no role I have ever played that has humbled me, stretched me, challenged me, or filled my heart quite like this one.

“Because as special as every birthday has been, this one feels different. This year, I celebrate as a mother.”

She also described the past few weeks as some of the most beautiful, overwhelming, exhausting and rewarding moments of her life and talked about the joy of getting to know her son, whom she described as “the cutest boy with the sweetest dimples”.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ini Dima-Okojie (@inidimaokojie)

“The newborn phase is no joke, and I definitely didn’t fully understand what was waiting for me,” she said.

“Today, I celebrate another year of life, but even more than that, I celebrate the privilege of being his mum.”

Dima-Okojie first announced she was pregnant in April, sharing a video of herself in a flowing white gown, showing off her baby bump.

Kwankwaso threatens N10bn suit against Primate Ayodele over alleged defamatory remarks

2026-06-24T14:54:07.988+01:00

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has threatened to institute a N10 billion defamation suit against Primate Elijah Ayodele, founder and head of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke Afa, Lagos, over alleged defamatory remarks.

Kwankwaso, through his lawyers, Magaji Mato Ibrahim SAN & Co, accused the cleric of making false, malicious and derogatory statements capable of damaging his reputation and political integrity.

In a letter dated June 11, 2026 and posted on X by Saifullahi Hassan, Kwankwaso’s media aide on Wednesday, the lawyers said their client’s attention had been drawn to a viral publication allegedly made by the cleric and circulated on social media as well as local and international news platforms.

The letter alleged that Ayodele, while addressing a congregation in a sermon that was recorded and livestreamed, made comments suggesting that Kwankwaso was insincere in his relationship with Peter Obi and had been financially induced to become his running mate.

According to the solicitors, Ayodele said, “Kwankwaso is a fake to Obi, Kwankwaso will betray you. Kwankwaso has been paid to be vice president to Obi”.

The lawyers argued that the statements directly attacked their client’s credibility, sincerity of purpose and political integrity.

“The Publication directly and unequivocally refers to our Client and attacks his credibility, sincerity of purpose and political integrity as the Vice-presidential Candidate and running mate to Peter Obi under the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) political party,” the letter reads.

They further described the remarks as “deliberate, premeditated, false, unprovoked, grossly unfounded and unsubstantiated,” adding that they portrayed Kwankwaso “to right thinking members of the society as deviant, hypocritic, deceitful and insincere”.

According to the lawyers, the alleged publication was intended to tarnish the reputation Kwankwaso had built over the years and sow division among members and supporters of the NDC.

The solicitors demanded that Ayodele, within 24 hours, issue a “full, direct and unequivocal retraction” of the alleged defamatory statements and publish an apology.

“That you immediately within twenty-four (24) hours publish a full, direct and unequivocal retraction of and apology for the false, malicious and defamatory publication against our Client, on all social media platforms and reputable local and international news outlets, while ensuring that the retraction and apology is given the same visibility and prominence as your defamatory publication,” the lawyers demanded.

“You provide a written undertaking that henceforth, you will cease and desist from publishing or republishing any defamatory or malicious content against our Client through any medium and on any platform whatsoever.”

The lawyers warned that failure to comply with the demands would result in legal action.

“Take Notice that if you neglect, fail or refuse to accede to our reasonable demands within the stipulated time frame, we have our Client’s unflinching instruction to take out appropriate legal proceedings against you without further recourse to you, wherein we shall claim substantial damages to the tune of Ten Billion Naira and cost of the action on a full indemnity basis amongst other reliefs,” the letter stated.

Nigerian govt wants more revenue without minding its consequences on tax payers – Mahdi Shehu

2026-06-24T14:54:05.480+01:00

Public commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has blamed what he described as anti-people government policies for the worsening economic hardship in Nigeria.

Shehu made the remarks in a post he shared on Tuesday, where he criticised what he called policies driven mainly by revenue generation without considering their impact on citizens.

According to him, such policies cannot lead to meaningful progress in any society.

“It’s all about bad government policies, unpopular government policies, anti-people government policies, anti-progress government policies,” he said.

He argued that when government policies focus more on revenue rather than the welfare of citizens, the economy and society suffer.

“Anywhere policies are tilted towards getting more revenue without minding the consequences and the burden of those taxes on the lives of citizens, there will be no progress,” he added.

Shehu also faulted what he described as a growing culture of excessive consumption and borrowing among citizens, saying it weakens economic stability.

He said a society cannot develop when people spend beyond their income and fall into debt.

“There is no way you can build a healthy society where people are aspiring to spend ostentatiously, spending more than they earn, pushing themselves into debt trap,” he said.

The commentator further noted that Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imports is also affecting economic growth.

“Any country whose consumption is based on importation, there is no way that country will grow,” he said.

He warned that a society with little or no savings and investment capacity cannot achieve sustainable development.

“Where you cannot save, where you cannot invest, where you consume everything, your name is a spectator,” he said.

Shehu called for a shift in economic thinking, urging policies that encourage production, savings, and investment rather than overdependence on consumption and imports.

Kwara Poly suspends lecturer over viral video showing students being physically reprimanded

2026-06-24T14:54:04.248+01:00

The management of Kwara State Polytechnic has suspended a lecturer captured in a viral video physically reprimanding students.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, by Halimat Garba, the institution’s public relations officer (PRO), said the video had generated concerns among stakeholders and members of the public.

Garba said the individuals seen in the footage were candidates of the Interim Joint Matriculation Board (IJMB) programme who arrived late for their ongoing examinations, and not students of the polytechnic.

She said while the circumstances surrounding the lecturer’s actions were yet to be fully established, the method adopted was unacceptable.

“The approach taken was wholly inappropriate as the Polytechnic stands firmly against any form of violence or physical punishment as a means of discipline,” the statement reads.

“We believe that education should be rooted in respect, understanding, and constructive guidance, and that there are far more effective and humane ways to instil important values in students.”

The PRO said the unnamed lecturer has been suspended from duty with immediate effect, pending the outcome of investigations into the incident.

She assured the public that the incident is being treated seriously, adding that measures would be taken to prevent a recurrence.

Garba also reaffirmed the polytechnic’s management commitment to the values and integrity for which the institution is known.

Nigeria Sanctions Committee Welcomes US Action Against Terror Financing Suspects

2026-06-24T14:47:28.483+01:00

The Nigeria Sanctions Committee has applauded the decision of the United States Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to impose sanctions on Mukthar Muhammad Adamu, Nine to Nine Bureau De Change, and Generation BDC Limited over alleged links to terrorism financing.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the committee noted that the US move followed Nigeria’s earlier designation of the same individuals and entities under the Nigeria Sanctions List on June 18, 2026.

According to the committee, the sanctions were the outcome of extensive intelligence gathering, financial investigations, and inter-agency assessments which established reasonable grounds to believe that the affected persons and companies facilitated or supported the activities of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and allied terrorist networks.

The statement explained:

“These designations follow the inclusion of Adamu and his companies as part of a broader update to the Nigeria Sanctions List approved and published on 18th June 2026. The naming of the three companies and six persons was based on intelligence and financial investigations that confirmed their role in financing and supporting ISWAP.”

The updated Nigeria Sanctions List includes Ibrahim Yakubu Ogirima, Muktar Muhammad Adamu, Adamu Chiroma, Ibrahim Abubakar, Abdullahi Umar Usman, and Babangida Muhammed Adamu Hammajam. The entities listed are Abbal Bako & Sons Bureau De Change Limited, Generation Currency BDC Limited, and Nine to Nine BDC Limited.

The Federal Government reiterated its directive to financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses to comply fully with sanctions obligations, including asset-freezing requirements and the filing of Suspicious Transaction Reports.

Commending the efforts of agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Justice, Office of the National Security Adviser, Central Bank of Nigeria, DSS, EFCC, and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, the committee emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to denying terrorist groups access to resources.

It added that Nigeria will continue to collaborate with domestic stakeholders and international partners to safeguard national security, strengthen financial integrity, and contribute to global efforts against terrorism financing.

The US Treasury’s OFAC, in its own statement, accused Adamu also known as Mukhtar Adamu Muhammad, of facilitating financial transactions for ISWAP. It further designated Nine to Nine Exchange Bureau De Change Limited, Generation Currency Bureau De Change Limited, and Manhattan Bureau De Change Limited, alleging they were controlled by Adamu and used to channel funds for the terrorist group.

Cubana Chiefpriest Agrees to Public DNA Test Over Kenyan Woman’s Paternity Claim

2026-06-24T14:11:26.325+01:00

Socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chiefpriest, has agreed to undergo a public DNA test to resolve the long-running paternity dispute with Kenyan woman Hellen Ati.

Chiefpriest made the declaration on Monday in response to a viral video of Ati pleading for help, which was discussed on a national television programme. In the emotional video, Ati expressed exhaustion from raising their alleged son alone, noting that the child was ill and that she had spent all her resources on his treatment. She urged the businessman to take responsibility if the boy is indeed his.

Reacting to public pressure and calls from his followers on Instagram, Chiefpriest wrote: “Make Una help me bring her & the child for una studio make I come there come do the DNA For una on live tv for free.”

He maintained his stance that he would not send money to anyone levelling allegations against him online and insisted that the responsibility to bring the child lies with Ati. “Bring me the child na you dey find papa for your pikin,” he added.

The controversy dates back to 2023. Ati has consistently claimed that her son was conceived after a brief encounter with Chiefpriest in Lagos in 2022. She has repeatedly demanded a DNA test, saying she has struggled financially and emotionally to raise the child alone.

Chiefpriest has always denied knowing Ati or fathering the child, describing the claims as attempts to tarnish his marriage and public image. The dispute gained fresh attention in January 2025 during his online feud with singer Burna Boy, who publicly backed Ati’s call for a DNA test.

In his latest comments, Chiefpriest said he is now ready for a public DNA test, provided Ati brings the child to the designated venue.

The development comes after sustained public pressure following Ati’s recent appeals on social media.

Akpabio Swears In Four New Senators After By-Elections

2026-06-24T14:03:46.635+01:00

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday administered the oath of office to four newly elected senators who emerged victorious in the recent by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The new lawmakers are:

Olaka Nwogu (PDP, Rivers South-East)

Envulu Anza (APC, Nasarawa North)

Ikeje Asogwu (APC, Enugu North)

Dayo Faduyile (APC, Ondo South)

Their swearing-in followed by-elections held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, to fill vacancies in the respective senatorial districts. INEC had presented certificates of return to the winners on Tuesday.

The vacancies arose due to:

The death of Senator Barinada Mpigi (Rivers South-East)

The death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki (Nasarawa North)

The death of Senator Okechukwu Ezea (Enugu North)

The appointment of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (Ondo South)

During the plenary session, the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, administered the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office to the four senators.In his remarks, Akpabio congratulated the new senators and welcomed them to the “Red Chamber,” describing the Senate as “a family of the most elite club in the world.” He urged them to place national interest above partisan considerations and to thoroughly acquaint themselves with the 1999 Constitution and the Senate Standing Orders (as amended in 2023).

Dignitaries at the ceremony included Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo.

This brings the current composition of the 10th Senate to full strength following the recent vacancies.

How Three Victims Kidnapped for Three Months Escaped Terrorist Camp in Zamfara

2026-06-24T13:57:56.184+01:00

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 1 Brigade under Counter-Terrorism Operation 6 have rescued three kidnap victims who spent approximately three months in a terrorist hideout in Zamfara State after successfully escaping their captors.

According to a report by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the victims managed to break free from the terrorists’ camp and made contact with military personnel. They were rescued at about 8:45am on Sunday, June 22, 2026, by troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bagega in Anka Local Government Area.

“The troops immediately secured the victims and provided initial assistance before evacuating them for medical attention,” Makama stated.The rescued individuals are currently undergoing medical evaluation and treatment as a result of their prolonged ordeal in captivity.

The rescue operation is part of sustained military efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves and secure the release of abducted persons across Zamfara State and the broader North-West region. Military operations against terrorist and criminal groups in the area remain ongoing.

2026 SAN Conferment Exercise Under Threat as Lawyers Ask CJN to Halt Process

2026-06-24T13:51:44.810+01:00

The ongoing process for the conferment of the 2026 Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) rank faces a major legal challenge as an association of lawyers has urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to immediately halt the exercise or risk being sued.

The threat came hours after the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC), chaired by the CJN, released a list of 89 shortlisted candidates on June 23, 2026. The list, signed by Kabir Eniola Akanbi, Esq., Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court and Secretary of the LPPC, includes 77 advocates and 12 academics who have passed the preliminary stages and are now set for final interviews.

In a pre-action notice dated June 24, 2026, the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP) demanded that the LPPC discontinue the 2026 SAN conferment proceedings because the matter is currently sub judice.

ALDRAP and its Executive Director, Dr. Tonye Clinton Jaja, are locked in a legal battle with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the LPPC over the introduction of the “Blue Silks” rank, an alternative title for non-litigation lawyers.

The Abuja Federal High Court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, had earlier granted a perpetual injunction restraining ALDRAP from conferring the Blue Silks rank. The association has since appealed the judgment to the Court of Appeal.

In the notice signed by its Administrative Secretary, Jesse Amuga, Esq., ALDRAP argued that continuing with the SAN process while the appeal is pending amounts to contempt of court.

“Our attention has been drawn to a publication… for conferment ceremony for the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) for the year 2026. We write to respectfully request discontinuance of the said proceedings in view of the ongoing lawsuit on this subject matter,” the notice stated.

Amuga warned that failure to halt the process would leave them no choice but to file a fresh lawsuit seeking an Order of Certiorari to quash the shortlist and restrain the CJN and LPPC Secretary from further actions on the 2026 exercise.

He emphasised that parties to a matter under appeal must not take steps that could prejudice its outcome. ALDRAP maintains that, under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, it is entitled to create the Blue Silks rank for its members who are non-litigation practitioners.

The NBA and LPPC have consistently maintained that the SAN rank is the only recognised privilege in the Nigerian legal profession and have described the Blue Silks initiative as illegal.

The development has cast uncertainty over the 2026 SAN conferment, which is traditionally handled annually by the LPPC. Further updates are expected as the situation unfolds.

El-Rufai Arrives in Court for Trial Over Alleged Financial Crimes

2026-06-24T13:44:18.255+01:00

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has arrived at the Federal High Court in Kaduna for the continuation of his trial on charges of alleged financial misconduct.

El-Rufai was escorted under tight security as he entered the court premises for proceedings brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The case involves multiple allegations, including abuse of office, financial impropriety, fraud during his tenure as governor, and wiretapping the National Security Adviser. El-Rufai has consistently denied all charges, while the ICPC maintains it has evidence to support them.

The trial was previously adjourned to today after two co-defendants failed to appear in court. Proceedings are expected to continue with all parties present.

On April 14, 2026, Justice Rilwan Aikawa granted El-Rufai bail in the sum of N200 million with stringent conditions, including two sureties, one a serving or retired civil servant at Grade Level 15 and the other a recognised traditional ruler. The court later rejected an application by his lawyers to vary the bail conditions.

The development is being closely monitored as the hearing on the substantive matter resumes. Further details are expected as proceedings unfold.