CKN News

Atiku Set To Pick Rotimi Amaechi As Running Mate

2026-06-12T08:13:19.096+01:00

Barring any last-minute change of formation, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has succeeded in setting up a possible ‘AA’ ticket on the presidential ballot of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by picking former Transportation Minister, Chibuike Amaechi, as his running mate.

Also, yesterday, he declared that the actions by the Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration contradicted the spirit, sacrifice and legacy of June 12.

Coming after weeks of rigorous negotiations within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) coalition platform, which was threatened by post-primary recriminations, the choice of Amaechi comes as a bold counter to the OK ticket pairing of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso on the rival NDC for the January 16, 2027, presidential election.

By settling for Amaechi, Atiku seems to have decided to do what he failed to do in the lead-up to the 2023 election cycle, when he refused to accept former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, who emerged as the first runner-up in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primary.

While the duo of the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Obi, and his New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) counterpart, Kwankwaso, joined the ADC, speculations were rife that the party had a predetermined plan to have Atiku run with the former transportation minister to achieve a North-East/South-South balance on the party’s presidential ballot.

But contrary to those conjectures, Amaechi, shortly after he filled and returned his N90 million presidential nomination form, said he was not positioning himself for a VP slot.

Further, pushing back on the reports of a possible pairing with Atiku after Obi and Kwankwaso left ADC for the NDC, Amaechi, on May 20, ruled out the possibility of a consensus rather than a direct primary.

Speaking on how the former Transportation Minister finally succumbed to pressures and entreaties from highly placed political leaders from both the North-West and South-South, a very close ally of Amaechi said Atiku assured that the “VP nominee would have extensive roles to play in the campaigns and government”.

Before the latest development, ADC chieftain, Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, had dismissed comments credited to party stalwart, Dele Momodu, suggesting that Amaechi had rejected the party’s VP slot ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement posted on his verified social media accounts yesterday, Eze described Momodu’s remarks as personal opinion capable of creating unnecessary tension, mistrust and misunderstanding within the party.

According to him, Amaechi’s previous comments after the ADC presidential primaries had only indicated that no one had approached him regarding a VP position.

ATIKU, in a statement which he personally signed and released to commemorate another Democracy Day on June 12, urged citizens to stand up against bad governance, reject the politics of intimidation, and resist every manifestation of democratic backsliding.

He stressed that Nigerians must, once again, summon the courage of those who marched, protested, resisted, suffered and sacrificed for freedom for June 12 to retain its meaning.

The Adamawa politician said, over the past three years, Nigerians had witnessed a deliberate and coordinated effort to weaken, fragment and neutralise opposition political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He added that through manufactured leadership crises, orchestrated defections, political intimidation and the abuse of state institutions, every credible opposition platform had come under sustained attack.

The former VP said institutions that ought to serve the Nigerian people impartially had increasingly been transformed into instruments of partisan warfare, adding that anti-graft agencies, the police, the National Assembly, and even segments of the judiciary had been deployed to harass, intimidate, and coerce opposition voices into submission or defection.

Nigerian Immigrant Cop Found Guilty of Kidnapping & Raping 14-Year-Old Girl While On Duty In USA

2026-06-12T08:03:08.478+01:00

A former police officer who swore to protect children has been convicted for using his badge to prey on one.

Sinmi Asomuyide, 33, a Nigerian immigrant and ex-officer in Kokomo, Indiana, was found guilty by a federal jury after a five-day trial for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old runaway girl while on duty in June 2024.

Instead of helping a missing child, Asomuyide exploited her.

Assigned to follow up on the missing 14-year-old, he picked her up and took her to a youth center. He stopped in a parking lot to ask her inappropriate sexual questions, then dropped her at home and exchanged phone numbers.

He tracked her phone location, showed up at her home unannounced, handcuffed her, and forced her into his marked squad car while still on duty.

He drove her to an abandoned parking lot and sexually assaulted her. The victim told investigators she repeatedly begged him to stop. He refused.

After the assault, he told her not to tell anyone or it would “be on her.” He then lied to Indiana State Police, denied sexual contact, and claimed there was no reason his semen would be in the patrol car. Forensic evidence proved otherwise. He also deleted a messaging app used to contact her.

He was found guilty on two federal counts: deprivation of rights under color of law – covering the kidnapping and sexual assault and witness tampering/obstruction.

Related state charges in Howard County were dismissed once the federal case proceeded. Asomuyide now faces up to life in prison at sentencing.

This case shatters public trust. A uniform, a squad car, and authority were weaponized against a vulnerable child. When those sworn to serve become predators, the damage extends far beyond one victim.

President Bola Tinubu’s June 12 Full Address To Nigerians

2026-06-12T07:33:40.486+01:00

TEXT OF PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU’S DEMOCRACY DAY ADDRESS ON FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

Fellow Nigerians

Today, we celebrate democracy and the enduring Nigerian spirit. For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers—not through violence. We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.

In the coming days, Ekiti and Osun States will hold elections. I urge INEC, security agencies, and all parties to ensure these polls are peaceful and credible. Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process. To our National Assembly, Judiciary, the Press, and Civil Society: you are the guardrails of our republic. Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria.

To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.

To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice. To our traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads: thank you for your support of peace and reconciliation. The government cannot do it alone.

Today, we honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their faith in freedom, and the courage of those who stood firm against intimidation. We pay tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death so that future generations could enjoy democracy. I salute labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders, and soldiers—both those who have passed and those still with us—for their patriotic contributions.

Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return. Democracy without security is not solid enough. That is why this administration declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits. Our 2026 budget commits N5.41 trillion—our largest ever—to defence and security. Our administration is ever ready to do much more to secure our people.

We have moved from training with our allies, the United States, France and other European countries, to precision targeting. In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP’s command centre. Terror-related deaths are down by 81% since 2015. Over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year. But we also keep the door of surrender open. Over 124,000 fighters and dependents have laid down their arms since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor.

To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.

At a time like this, let us not assign blame or point fingers. Crime has no ethnicity. We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history. We will triumph over terror and continue to build a more prosperous nation.

June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story. We remember Chief M.K.O. Abiola, who won a pan-Nigerian mandate transcending ethnicity and religion. We remember Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.

We also remember Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Alfred Rewane, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti, Frank Kokori, Arthur Nwankwo, Chima Ubani, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and the many other heroes and heroines of democracy whose sacrifices helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today.

As beneficiaries of their struggle, we have a duty to strengthen and deepen the democratic institutions for which they fought. The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded, and government is accountable.

June 12, 1993, revealed the possibility of a true Nigerian nation. The heroes of June 12 secured political freedom. Our challenge is to secure economic freedom. Democracy must be felt in the quality of people’s lives—in opportunities for youth, in prosperous farmers, successful entrepreneurs, and the dignity of our workers.

The reforms we are undertaking were not chosen for ease, but for necessity. Three years ago, our public finances were under severe strain, investment was discouraged, and economic uncertainty threatened our future. We chose to act, embracing reforms to advance Nigeria’s economic freedom.

Since 2023, our reforms have restored stability and credibility to economic management. Federation revenues have risen, providing states and local governments with more resources for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. Fiscal transparency has improved, leakage has been reduced, and public funds are better directed to national priorities. Investor confidence has returned, with investments in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology, mining, transportation, and the creative industries growing.

Domestic refining capacity has increased, strengthening energy security and reducing our reliance on imported petroleum products.

By 2023, when we came on board, the electricity sector was characterised by chronic generation shortfalls, an unreliable gas supply, and transmission infrastructure so fragile that it could not evacuate available power. Distribution companies were burdened by massive losses and a metering deficit of over four million. Worst of all, the value chain was drowning in legacy debt. The result was a sector that generated less than the 13,500 Megawatts installed capacity, a sector that transmitted less than it generated, distributed less than it transmitted and collected revenue far below what it needed to sustain itself.

To address the problems besetting the sector, I signed the Electricity Act, which grants states authority to generate, transmit, and distribute power. The Presidential Power Sector Task Force is working hard to reduce the metering deficit. It has also been authorised to raise N4 trillion bond to settle verified legacy debts. The Rural Electrification Agency, supported by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, has deployed off-grid and mini-grid power to underserved communities, universities, markets, and hospitals. Electricity is a democratic dividend we owe every Nigerian. We intend to deliver it.

Across the country, infrastructure projects are connecting producers to markets and creating opportunities for enterprise and employment. The National Agricultural Development Fund is deploying 10,000 tractors over five years. Over 1,000 SMEs have been certified for export. Non-oil exports grew by 21% last year.

Yet, many Nigerians still face economic hardship. We remain focused on reducing inflation, expanding food production, creating jobs, improving living standards, rebuilding confidence in our economy, and creating conditions for sustainable prosperity.

We are moving from uncertainty to stability. The next phase is about accelerating growth and ensuring the benefits are felt in every home, every community, and every region. We believe that Democracy must be felt in the pocket.

Recognising that democracy is undermined when people do not feel its impact, my administration has sought financial autonomy for our 774 local councils. A fundamental challenge to our nation’s advancement has been ineffective local government administration. The insecurity we are addressing is partly due to the collapse of grassroots governance. The Renewed Hope Agenda is about ensuring that all Nigerians benefit from governance.

Every generation has a defining responsibility. The generation of our founding fathers secured independence—the generation of June 12 secured democracy. Our generation must secure prosperity.

Let us move forward together—rejecting division, cynicism, and despair; embracing unity, hope, and confidence. Let us build a Nigeria united by a common purpose, strengthened by diversity, where justice is accessible, liberty is secure, and opportunity is abundant.

Among the architects of modern democratic Nigeria, we honour General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his vision of national partnership. In recognition of his contributions, the Federal Government has approved the revitalisation and renaming of the completed Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

I am also pleased to announce national awards to the following Nigerians, who suffered persecution, endured indignities, exile, incarceration, and, at times, solitary confinement, so that we have democracy today.

Barrister Ayoka Lawani

Tunde Fagbenle

Oladele Alake

Olatunji Bello

Louis Odion

Segun Babatope

Sam Omatseye

Sir Ademola Osinubi

Bola Bolawole

Lade Bonuola

Femi Kusa

Debo Adeniran

Chief Ayo Opadokun

Chief Ralph Obiora

Ose Osayande

Barrister Osa Director

Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine

Dr Arthur Nwankwo (Posthumous)

Dr Osagie Obayuwana

Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin

Barrister Titus Mann

Joe Igbokwe

Richard Akinnola

Ben Charles-Obi (Posthumous)

George Mbah

Dr Niran Malaolu

Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd)

Femi Aborisade

Jenkins Alumona

Gbemiga Ogunleye

Muyiwa Adekeye

Babajide Kolade-Otitoju

Ike Okonta

We also recognise the soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle:

Major General MA Garba

Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa

Col Umar Farouk Ahmed;

Col Sambo Dasuki;

Col Lawan Gwadabe;

Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong

Col Musa Shehu;

Major General Chris Eze;

Major General Harris Dzarma;

Col Isa Jibrin;

Maj. General Joseph Oshanupin;

Col Olusegun Oloruntoba, Olugbede of Gbede Kingdom)

Lieutenant Colonel Happy Kefas Bulus

Col J Okai;

Col Emmanuel Ndubueze;

Lt Col Yakubu Muazu

Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Current Etsu Nupe, who is already the holder of the CFR title.

The honours list will be released in the next few days.

Fellow Nigerians, 27 years ago, many doubted democracy would survive here because of our diversity. Today, our diversity sustains our democracy. The road ahead is steep. But June 12 reminds us: Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break.

Let us renew our covenant: That the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from this land.

May God bless the heroes of our democracy. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. May God continue to bless us all.

Happy Democracy Day.

BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR

President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces

Federal Republic of Nigeria

June 12 : Tinubu Confers National Awards On Joe Igbokwe , Akinnola, BKO , Dasuki , Others

2026-06-12T07:21:04.471+01:00

President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours on 50 Nigerians who were key figures in the pro-democracy struggle.

The 2026 Democracy Day national honours list comprises several journalists, civil rights leaders and senior military officers involved in the fight against military dictatorship.

“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story,” the president said in his speech on Friday.

“As beneficiaries of their struggle, we have a duty to strengthen and deepen the democratic institutions for which they fought. The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded, and government is accountable.

“June 12, 1993, revealed the possibility of a true Nigerian nation. The heroes of June 12 secured political freedom. Our challenge is to secure economic freedom. Democracy must be felt in the quality of people’s lives—in opportunities for youth, in prosperous farmers, successful entrepreneurs, and the dignity of our workers.

“Every generation has a defining responsibility. The generation of our founding fathers secured independence—the generation of June 12 secured democracy. Our generation must secure prosperity.”

The president added that the 2026 awardees “suffered persecution, endured indignities, exile, incarceration, and, at times, solitary confinement, so that we have democracy today”.

FULL LIST

Barrister Ayoka Lawani

Tunde Fagbenle

Oladele Alake

Olatunji Bello

Louis Odion

Segun Babatope

Sam Omatseye

Sir Ademola Osinubi

Bola Bolawole

Lade Bonuola

Femi Kusa

Debo Adeniran

Chief Ayo Opadokun

Chief Ralph Obiora

Ose Osayande

Barrister Osa Director

Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine

Dr Arthur Nwankwo (Posthumous)

Dr Osagie Obayuwana

Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin

Barrister Titus Mann

Joe Igbokwe

Richard Akinnola

Ben Charles-Obi (Posthumous)

George Mbah

Dr Niran Malaolu

Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd)

Femi Aborisade

Jenkins Alumona

Gbemiga Ogunleye

Muyiwa Adekeye

Babajide Kolade-Otitoju

Ike Okonta

SOLDIER-DEMOCRATS

Major General MA Garba

Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa

Col Umar Farouk Ahmed

Col Sambo Dasuki

Col Lawan Gwadabe

Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong

Col Musa Shehu

Major General Chris Eze

Major General Harris Dzarma

Col Isa Jibrin

Maj. General Joseph Oshanupin

Col Olusegun Oloruntoba, Olugbede of Gbede Kingdom)

Lieutenant Colonel Happy Kefas Bulus

Col J Okai

Col Emmanuel Ndubueze

Lt Col Yakubu Muazu

Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Current Etsu Nupe, who is already the holder of the CFR title.

The president said the full honours list will be released in the “next few days”.

Army Arrest Fake Major General In Kaduna

2026-06-11T19:16:46.291+01:00

Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a suspected impostor who allegedly posed as a retired Major General in Kaduna State.

Military sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspect was apprehended on Wednesday by troops of the 312 Artillery Regiment deployed at the Strike Force Base in Sabo area.

The suspect was alleged to have been impersonating retired Major General A.T. Ibrahim.

According to the sources, the arrest followed intelligence that led troops to the suspect at about 9:14 a.m.

“The individual was arrested for allegedly impersonating Maj.-Gen. A.T. Ibrahim (rtd) and is currently in military custody undergoing preliminary investigation,” the source said.

The sources added that the suspect would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution after the completion of initial military procedures.

Military authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the alleged impersonation or whether the suspect used the false identity to commit any offence.

However, security agencies said investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case and determine whether other persons were involved.

DETAILS OF PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE POLICE AND FEDERAL POLICE BY KENNY ADEWOLE

2026-06-11T19:14:03.759+01:00

DETAILS OF PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF STATE POLICE AND FEDERAL POLICE BY KENNY ADEWOLE

1. Establishment of Federal Police and State Police (New Section 214)

• Two distinct police bodies are constitutionally established:

• (a) the Federal Police

• (b) State Police (one per State, established by State law)

The National Assembly must pass an Act prescribing:

• Structure, organisation, administration, and powers of the Federal Police

• Framework and guidelines for the establishment of State Police

• State Police cannot commence operational policing until:

• Established by a Law of the State House of Assembly, and

• Certified as meeting national minimum standards (prescribed by an Act of the National Assembly)

• Transitional provision: Until a State Police becomes operational, the Federal Police continues all policing functions in that State. After commencement, the Federal Police handles federal policing functions and may provide assistance to the State Police.

2. Responsibilities and Non-Interference (Section 214)

Federal Police is responsible for:

• Maintenance of public security, public order, and security of persons/property throughout the Federation (to the extent provided by the Constitution or National Assembly Act).

• Similar functions within a State to the extent the State has legislative power under the Constitution.

Key safeguard against federal overreach (Section 214(6)):

The Federal Police shall not interfere with State Police operations or a State’s internal security affairs except in these limited cases:

• To contain serious threats where there is a complete breakdown of law and order and the State Police is unable to respond.

• When the Governor requests intervention.

• When a State Police is unable to function due to administrative, financial, or other problems.

Any such intervention requires prior approval by the National Police Council.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT): Fully under the jurisdiction and operational control of the Federal Police.

3. Leadership and Command (New Section 215)

• Federal Police: Headed by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).

• Appointed by the President on the advice of the National Police Council, from serving members of the Federal Police.

• Subject to confirmation by the National Assembly.

• The IGP has command over the entire Federal Police, including contingents in States.

• The President (or authorised Minister) may give lawful directions on public safety and order; the IGP must comply.

• State Police: Headed by a Commissioner of Police (CP).

• Appointed by the Governor on the advice of the National Police Council, from serving members of the State Police.

• Subject to confirmation by the State House of Assembly.

• The Governor (or authorised Commissioner) may give lawful directions on public safety and order; the CP must comply.

• If the CP believes a direction is unlawful or contradicts general policing standards, the matter can be referred to the National Police Council (whose decision is final).

4. Removal of Top Officers (New Section 216)

• IGP: Removed only by the President on the recommendation of the National Police Council for specified grounds (grave misconduct, breach of Police Act/Regulations/Code of Conduct, conviction for fraud/dishonesty, bankruptcy, or mental incapacity). Requires two-thirds majority approval of the National Assembly.

• State Commissioner of Police: Removed only by the Governor on the recommendation of the National Police Council for similar grounds. Requires two-thirds majority approval of the State House of Assembly.

5. Funding Support (New Section 216A)

The Federal Government shall provide grants or aids to State Police on the recommendation of the National Police Council, subject to approval by the National Assembly.

6. Oversight Bodies

National Police Council (restructured and renamed from the old Nigeria Police Council; new composition and expanded functions in Third Schedule):

• Broad membership including: Chairman (Presidential appointee confirmed by NA), Attorney-General of the Federation, serving senior Federal Police officer, Attorneys-General of all States, retired Commissioners of Police (one per geo-political zone), representatives of NHRC, Public Complaints Commission, NLC, NBA, NUJ, and Traditional Rulers’ Councils.

• Key functions: Appointment and discipline of Federal Police officers (except IGP); recommending State top officers (CP, DCP, ACP) to Governors based on State PSC lists; supervising Federal and State Police activities (within constitutional limits); setting standards for training, intelligence, forensics; assisting State Police on request.

State Police Service Commission (new body established for each State in Third Schedule, Part II):

• Composition: Chairman (appointed by Governor, confirmed by State HA), representatives of NHRC, Public Complaints Commission, NLC, NBA, NUJ, retired Assistant Commissioners of Police (one per senatorial district), and Traditional Rulers’ Council.

• Functions: Recommending three qualified candidates for CP/DCP/ACP to the National Police Council; appointment, discipline, and removal of State Police officers below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police; other functions as prescribed by Constitution or National Assembly Act.

7. Legislative Framework (Second Schedule – Concurrent Legislative List)

• National Assembly may make laws on: establishment/organisation/administration/powers/duties of Federal Police; powers/duties of State Police; national minimum standards for both; policing standards, inspection, certification, complaints mechanisms, criminal information systems, inter-governmental cooperation, federal intervention, use of force, firearms, grants, and accountability.

• State Houses of Assembly may make laws for the establishment, organisation, administration, funding, and oversight of their State Police — but must comply with the Constitution and valid National Assembly Acts.

• States may set higher standards than national minimums but not lower.

• National Assembly laws cannot give federal authorities routine command, deployment, appointment, promotion, transfer, discipline, or control over State Police personnel (except for explicitly authorised federal intervention).

8. Other Related Changes

• Updates to various constitutional provisions (e.g., Sections 34, 35, 39, 42, 84, 89, 129, 153) to replace references to “Nigeria Police Force” with appropriate “Police”, “Federal Police”, or “State Police” terminology.

• Exclusive Legislative List adjustments (e.g., light arms for policing purposes; fingerprints/biometrics/forensics shared with State Police; Federal Police listed separately).

• Consequential amendments to the Third Schedule for the new bodies and their compositions/powers.

Kenny Adewole is the publisher of Swift Reporters

Miss UNIJOS Mourns Her Fiance Killed By Bandits

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

House Of Reps Passes State Police Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sky-high ticket prices anger fans

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

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

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

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

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

New tech rules

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

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

World Cup injury setbacks

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

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

Why are drinks breaks controversial?

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

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

Trump might not attend United States World Cup opener

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

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

Mexico’s Claudia Sheinbaum won’t attend either

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

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

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

World Cup celebrations begin amid protests in Mexico City

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

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

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

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

The 2026 World Cup arrives carrying more baggage than most.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senate Moves To Expand Appellate, Federal Courts Amid Backlog Concerns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Ex Minister Sirika Allegedly Used Ethiopian Airlines To Siphon N2bn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Constitution Alteration Bills span critical thematic areas, including:

- Electoral Reforms

- Judicial Reforms

- Security and Policing

- Local Government Administration

- Inclusive Governance and Citizenship

- Legislature

- Devolution of Powers

- Human Rights

- Fiscal Reforms

- Strengthening of Institutions

- Traditional Institutions

- Creation of States and Local Governments

Download Final Print of Constitution Amendment Bills below:

bit.ly/HoRConstitutionBills

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

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

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

According to him:

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

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

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

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

Friendly : Portugal Beats Super Eagles 2..1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Statement by Nigerian Army

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HASSAN ABDULLAHI

Lieutenant

Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations

12 Brigade Nigerian Army

10 June 2026

LASU Reappoints Registrar, New Bursar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NCAA Grounds Private Jet For Landing On Asaba Expressway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police Kill Two Kidnappers , Rescue Five Victims In Abuja

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One of the counts reads:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Man Tied For Allegedly Stealing Fish From Pond In Bayelsa

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

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

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

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

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

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

6-year Single Term Push Raises Elongation Fears

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bill will require extensive constitutional amendment to become law – Lawyer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daily Trust

Lady Apprehended For Throwing Her Baby Into River

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

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

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

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

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

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

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