Senate urges crackdown on bandits flaunting crimes on TikTok
The Senate has called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforcement efforts against bandits and terrorists who openly display their criminal activities and proceeds on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. Lawmakers expressed concern over the increasing boldness of criminal networks using online platforms to publicise their operations and urged authorities to take swift action to curb the trend.
House of Representatives passes state police bill
The House of Representatives has passed the State Police Bill, paving the way for the decentralisation of Nigeria’s policing structure. The bill secured the support of 289 lawmakers during Thursday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The development marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to reform the country’s security architecture and improve localised policing.
Mele Kyari reacts to Senate arrest warrant
Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, has expressed surprise over an arrest warrant reportedly issued against him by the Senate Committee on Public Accounts. In a letter dated June 10, 2026, Kyari stated that he had earlier informed the committee of his absence due to medical treatment abroad and noted that the correspondence was received by lawmakers in May.
Katsina police arrest 225 crime suspects in May
The Katsina State Police Command says it arrested 225 suspects linked to kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, arms trafficking and other crimes in May 2026. Command spokesperson DSP Abubakar Sadiq disclosed the figure while presenting the command’s monthly operational scorecard, describing the arrests as part of intensified efforts to tackle insecurity across the state.
INEC assures credible Ekiti governorship election
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, has assured residents of Ekiti State that the June 20 governorship election will be credible. He said the commission is fully prepared logistically, technologically and operationally to conduct a transparent poll, stressing that the integrity of the voter register remains central to the electoral process.
Radda opens door for negotiations with bandits
Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda has softened his stance on negotiating with bandits, declaring that his administration is willing to engage criminals who genuinely renounce violence. The governor said the state remains committed to facilitating the reintegration of repentant bandits and kidnappers as part of broader efforts to restore peace.
NAF airstrikes kill terrorists in Lake Chad region
The Nigerian Air Force says scores of terrorists, including several commanders, were killed during airstrikes on insurgent hideouts in the Northern Tumbuns area of the Lake Chad Basin. The operation, conducted under Operation Hadin Kai, targeted enclaves in Metele, Borno State, regarded as a major insurgent stronghold.
FG receives Nigerian returnees from South Africa
The Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency, has received hundreds of Nigerian returnees from South Africa under the voluntary return programme. NEMA said the returnees arrived in Lagos and were received by officials who will oversee documentation and reintegration support.
Zulum announces closure of largest Borno IDP camp
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has announced that the state’s largest Internally Displaced Persons camp in Bama will be closed within one month. The governor made the disclosure after an assessment visit to the facility, reaffirming efforts to resettle displaced persons and restore normalcy in affected communities.
Mexico defeat South Africa in World Cup opener
Co-hosts Mexico began their FIFA World Cup campaign on a winning note with a 2-0 victory over nine-man South Africa at the Estadio Azteca. Julian Quinones scored the tournament’s first goal before veteran striker Raul Jimenez sealed the win, giving Mexico an ideal start in Group A.
Federal Government declares June 12 public holiday
The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, a public holiday to mark Democracy Day. Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the day honours the sacrifices and resilience of Nigerians who fought for democratic governance. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law.
State police bill secures overwhelming support in House
The House of Representatives has formally passed the State Police Bill after 289 lawmakers voted in favour of the proposal, with only four members opposing it. The bill is regarded as one of the most significant security reforms currently before the National Assembly.
262 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa arrive Lagos
The first batch of 262 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks has arrived in Lagos. The returnees were flown home aboard an Air Peace evacuation flight coordinated by the Federal Government. Officials said the evacuees will undergo documentation before being reunited with their families.
Atiku accuses Tinubu administration of weakening democracy
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of undermining democratic institutions ahead of the 2027 elections. In a Democracy Day statement, Atiku alleged that opposition parties have been weakened through political intimidation, orchestrated defections and the misuse of state institutions.
House names Fred Agbedi new Minority Leader
The House of Representatives has announced Bayelsa lawmaker Fred Agbedi as the new Minority Leader of the 10th Assembly. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas also named Abdusamad Dasuki as Deputy Minority Leader and Mansur Manu Soro as Minority Chief Whip following consultations among opposition parties.
Senate distances itself from Kyari arrest warrant
The Senate has rejected reports suggesting it authorised an arrest warrant against former NNPCL boss Mele Kyari. Lawmakers also distanced themselves from remarks allegedly made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole describing the NNPCL in derogatory terms. The Senate clarified that no committee can issue an arrest warrant without the approval of the Senate President.
Ruger takes break from music over legal dispute
Nigerian singer Michael Adebayo, popularly known as Ruger, has temporarily stepped away from music to focus on a legal dispute involving his former girlfriend. His record label said the matter relates to claims of emotional distress and damages, adding that the singer is expected to return to music in August.
Ruth Kadiri decries rising cost of living
Nollywood actress Ruth Kadiri has lamented the rising cost of living in Nigeria, describing basic feeding as a luxury for many households. In a social media video, she expressed concern over soaring food prices and warned that economic hardship is taking a toll on families across the country.
Omar Artan appointed for UEFA Super Cup after US entry setback
Somali referee Omar Artan has been appointed to officiate the UEFA Super Cup final between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa. The appointment comes days after he was unable to enter the United States and subsequently missed out on officiating duties at the FIFA World Cup.
José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid
Real Madrid have confirmed the appointment of José Mourinho as first-team coach until June 2029. The Portuguese manager returns to the Spanish giants 13 years after leaving the club and is expected to begin work when pre-season preparations commence in July.
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