By Sabiu Abdullahi

South Africa’s Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has expressed concern over the growing impact of xenophobia allegations on the country’s international reputation, warning that the situation is beginning to affect citizens, businesses and entertainers across Africa.

Kubayi said the negative perception of South Africa is creating challenges beyond diplomatic circles. She noted that artists who depend on performances in other African countries are now facing cancelled bookings and financial losses.

“Majority of South African artists who perform in other African countries are seeing their gigs getting cancelled. One artist reached out to me and said all her gigs were cancelled,” she said.

The minister explained that the backlash has affected the country’s image and is creating difficulties for both individuals and businesses operating outside South Africa.

“We are raising the issues that we are raising, the brand is hurting, we can’t lie about it. The backlash, and that’s why part of the work that we are doing as government as well through DECO is engagement with businesses abroad,” she said.

According to Kubayi, the government has stepped up diplomatic efforts to support South African companies facing challenges in other countries. She added that Foreign Affairs Minister Ronald Lamola has been holding discussions with businesses abroad, while consular assistance has also been strengthened.

She noted that the effects have now spread to the entertainment industry, where cancelled performances are depriving artists of expected income. The government, she said, plans to work closely with stakeholders in the arts and culture sector to assess the extent of the problem and consider possible responses.

Despite the criticism directed at the country, Kubayi rejected claims that South Africans should generally be described as xenophobic. She stated that the government remains committed to responsible citizenship and is addressing migration issues through legal and institutional channels.

The minister also said South Africa continues to engage with other African countries, which she claimed understand the challenges posed by undocumented migration and support lawful enforcement measures.

At the same time, she called on communities to refrain from attacks on foreign nationals, warning that such actions undermine national unity and damage South Africa’s standing internationally.

Kubayi stressed that foreigners who reside legally in the country deserve protection. She said the government’s approach seeks to balance immigration enforcement with respect for human rights and regional cooperation.

Recent incidents of violence and unrest involving foreign nationals have renewed concerns about xenophobia in South Africa. Reports indicate that anti-immigrant protests and attacks on foreign-owned businesses in some communities have forced migrants from countries including Nigeria, Mozambique and Malawi to flee affected areas or seek protection.

Human rights organisations have linked the incidents to economic hardship, unemployment and growing hostility toward undocumented migrants.

The issue has also generated debate during the ongoing World Cup period. Discussions surrounding South Africa’s participation have been influenced by reports of attacks on foreign nationals, while some African football supporters have voiced criticism and anger on social media and fan platforms.

The developments have intensified concerns that xenophobia-related tensions could continue to harm South Africa’s image across the continent.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United Kingdom government has announced plans to prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, citing concerns about online safety and the impact of digital content on young people.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled the proposal on Monday. He argued that social media platforms are harming children’s wellbeing and exposing them to inappropriate material.

According to Starmer, the government “will ban access to social media for all children under the age of 16”. He also warned that these platforms are “exposing them to content that is dangerous” and “designed to be addictive”.

The proposed restriction will cover platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X. Messaging services, including WhatsApp, will not be affected.

Starmer said he expects the legislation to be approved by the end of December, with implementation scheduled for the spring of next year.

The British leader also disclosed that the government intends to take “world-leading action on gaming services and live streaming platforms”. Officials are considering additional measures, including overnight restrictions and limits on endless scrolling features for users under 18. More details are expected in July.

The proposal follows a government consultation that allowed British teenagers to test social media restrictions and app time limits. Authorities said the initiative drew about 116,000 responses, making it one of the largest consultations ever conducted by the government.

The plan was influenced by Australia’s decision to ban social media use for people under 16. Australia became the first country to adopt such a policy in December.

Not everyone supports the move. A YouTube spokesperson cautioned that a blanket ban could push children toward “less safe services”.

Starmer also addressed concerns about gaming and live-streaming platforms that allow contact between children and strangers.

“Is there a situation in the offline world where you would just let your child pair up with a stranger? An adult that you don’t know about? No. So we’re taking action on that,” he said.

The UK announcement comes shortly after the government directed major technology firms, including Apple and Google, to introduce safety tools that prevent children from creating, sending or receiving nude images on mobile devices.

Authorities warned that legislation would be introduced if the companies fail to implement the required protections within three months.

The Labour government stated that technology firms have a “moral responsibility” to “protect children from coercion, abuse and sextortion”.

Meanwhile, several countries have introduced or proposed similar measures. Canada recently proposed legislation that would prevent children under 16 from opening social media accounts, while Indonesia began enforcing a comparable restriction in March. A number of European governments have also indicated interest in adopting similar policies.

According to figures cited by the UK government from the Internet Watch Foundation, 91 percent of online child sexual abuse reports recorded in 2024 involved self-generated content created by children.

By Uzair Adam

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties over their alleged failure to meet constitutional electoral requirements.

The affected parties are the Action Peoples Party (APP), Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party (AP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

Justice Peter Lifu issued the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators.

In the case marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026, the plaintiffs asked the court to determine whether INEC is constitutionally obligated to deregister political parties that fail to satisfy the electoral performance benchmarks stipulated in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), alongside provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 and relevant INEC regulations.

The forum argued that the five parties had consistently failed to meet the constitutional thresholds required to retain their registration.

According to the plaintiffs, political parties are expected to secure at least 25 per cent of votes in a state during a presidential election or win at least one elective position at the national, state, or local government level.

They maintained that the parties performed poorly in the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections, failing to win seats across key levels of government.

The plaintiffs further contended that the continued recognition of the parties by INEC undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.

They urged the court to compel the electoral commission to deregister the parties before preparations for the 2027 general elections progress further.

In addition, they sought orders restraining the affected parties from participating in elections or engaging in political activities, including campaigns, rallies, and primary elections.

They also requested an injunction preventing INEC from recognising or dealing with the parties in any official capacity unless they comply with constitutional provisions.

The ruling could have significant political implications ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly for aspirants seeking to contest on the platforms of the affected parties, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

By Munir Aliyu Kabuga

It is indeed disheartening, though sadly not surprising. A nation’s commitment to the welfare and security of its citizens is often measured by how it responds when its finest men and women make the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

The deaths of senior military officers in the fight against terrorism, including Brigadier General Uba and Brigadier General Momoh, and many more, remain painful reminders of the enormous sacrifices being made daily by members of the Armed Forces. These officers dedicated their lives to defending Nigeria against insurgency and insecurity, yet many Nigerians were left with the feeling that the national response to their deaths did not adequately reflect the magnitude of their service and sacrifice.

Beyond official statements of condemnation and condolences, many citizens expected a more robust and visible response—one that would demonstrate an unwavering resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice and intensify efforts to defeat the forces of terror. Such losses should serve not merely as moments of mourning but as catalysts for decisive action against those who continue to threaten the nation’s peace, security, and unity.

It is against this backdrop that concerns are being expressed regarding the death of General Rabe Abubakar. If the loss of serving generals did not elicit the level of response many Nigerians had hoped for, it is understandable why some fear that the passing of a retired general may receive even less attention from the authorities.

Ultimately, the greatest tribute to fallen heroes is not found in words of sympathy alone, but in concrete actions that strengthen national security, honour their sacrifices, and ensure that those responsible for such acts are relentlessly pursued and brought to justice.

The manner in which some military personnel have been treated, both in life and in death, is bound to have consequences for morale within the Armed Forces and for the willingness of future generations to enlist. It is only natural for a young citizen to think twice about joining the military when those who devote their lives to the service of the nation sometimes appear abandoned at their most vulnerable moments.

Why would one not hesitate when brave men and women give their all in defence of their country, only to face the prospect of falling into the hands of ruthless and barbaric terrorists? The courage required to wear the uniform is immense, but that courage must be matched by an unwavering national commitment to protect, support, and honour those who serve.

There is something profoundly troubling about the thought of a nation that entrusted a man with its uniform, bestowed upon him rank and responsibility, benefited from his years of sacrifice, celebrated his retirement, and yet seemed unable to guarantee his safety when he needed it most.

Today, we mourn General Rabe Abubakar.

He served his nation with honour, dedication, and distinction. His passing has reignited important questions about how a country values those who dedicate their lives to its service and security. It challenges us to reflect on whether we have done enough—not only to honour our heroes after their deaths, but also to safeguard them while they are alive.

This is more than a eulogy; it is a call to reflection. It is a reminder that the true measure of a nation’s gratitude to its heroes lies not merely in ceremonial tributes or eloquent speeches, but in its enduring commitment to their welfare, dignity, and security, both during and after their years of service.

May Allah forgive General Rabe Abubakar’s shortcomings, expand his grave, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May He comfort his family, grant patience and strength, and bless them with peace and security, ameen. May Allah grant him eternal rest and comfort those he left behind, ameen.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

United States President Donald Trump has declared that a ceasefire agreement has been reached with Iran, alongside a decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping, marking a major shift in relations after months of tension.

Trump made the announcement from the White House and later expanded on it in a series of posts on Truth Social, where he confirmed the deal and outlined immediate steps linked to its implementation.

“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

He further stated:
“Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”

In a separate message, he added:
“This Great Deal will bring Peace and Security to the whole Region”

Trump also suggested that the agreement could reshape regional relations going forward.

“Many presidents have tried to make Peace with Iran, and all have failed before me. The Leaders of the Region have, for the first time, found a President who can help them achieve real Peace. With the opening of the Strait upon the signing of the Deal on Friday, for purposes of mine removal, oil will flow on both ends again for the Region, and the World!”

The announcement came shortly after Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that both parties had reached a comprehensive understanding to end hostilities.

“Following intensive talks, we are pleased to announce that the Peace Deal between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran has been REACHED. Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” Sharif wrote.

He also disclosed that an official signing ceremony is scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday, June 19, following a series of preparatory diplomatic meetings.

The agreement, according to mediating parties, followed intensive negotiations involving several regional actors. Qatar welcomed the outcome, describing it as a step toward wider stability.

“The State of Qatar welcomes the agreement reached on the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran on addressing the outstanding issues between them, including ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and considers it an important step towards consolidating sustainable peace and promoting economic growth regionally and internationally,” Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed support for continued technical discussions aimed at ensuring full implementation of the agreement.

“Attention must now turn to fully implementing the memorandum of understanding to ensure the Strait reopens and remains fully and permanently open, and that the detailed elements of the nuclear agreement are finalised,” Starmer said.

He added:
“We are clear that toll-free freedom of navigation must now be restored,”

French President Emmanuel Macron also welcomed the deal, urging swift implementation while confirming France’s readiness to support maritime stability efforts.

“I welcome the agreement reached between the United States and Iran, the result of a diplomatic effort to which several partners contributed. I call for its swift and full implementation by all parties to the conflict,” Macron said.

“This agreement must allow for the urgent and unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which the international mission established with the United Kingdom is ready to support. The resources are in place and ready to be deployed,” he added.

“The resumption of maritime traffic, without restrictions or tolls, is essential for regional stability and the global economy.”

France “will also continue to provide its full support to the determined efforts of the Lebanese authorities to restore the sovereignty of the State, which alone can ensure Lebanon’s stability and territorial integrity and meet the needs of its populations”, he added.

US Vice President JD Vance described the agreement as a turning point for the region and expressed optimism about its wider impact.

“What the president has done is create the real space to transform that region. And now, hopefully a new era with the Iranians,” Vance said.

“I think we can safely say, with confidence, that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon… This is just a great thing for the American people.”

The ceasefire announcement comes as international observers watch closely for signs of long-term stability in the region, with attention now turning to the upcoming signing ceremony in Switzerland and the practical implementation of the agreement.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has alleged that the daughter of Senate President Godswill Akpabio secured a position in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) without going through the proper recruitment process.

The former Edo State governor made the claim during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast hosted by Seun Okinbaloye. He spoke while defending his remarks on the Senate’s handling of matters involving the NNPC and the bench warrant issued against former NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

Oshiomhole further alleged that Akpabio had a personal interest in issues concerning the state-owned oil company. He claimed that Kyari played a role in the appointment of the Senate President’s daughter.

According to the senator, information available to him indicated that the employment did not follow the standard procedure used for recruitment.

“Myself inclusive. The second is my response to the former chief financial controller of NNPC, whose tenure the investigation covers, who pointedly said to the committee that it is you people. And now I know that the Senate President said his daughter was taken by Mele Kyari and put in a, well as Nigerians we say, in a juicy position that he probably didn’t merit,” he said.

Oshiomhole also accused current and former officials of the NNPC of using their influence to secure jobs for relatives within the organisation.

“They all have employed their children, their uncles, their cousins, their in-laws into various aspects of NNPC and put them in different positions. If they carry out the payroll of NNPC, you will find that they’ve turned the top level to a family business,” he said.

Despite the allegations, the senator stated that there was nothing wrong with relatives of public office holders working at the NNPC if they met the required qualifications and were employed through the appropriate channels.

“You can only make an issue if you give them a job they did not merit, they are not qualified for, and you didn’t follow the right procedure. Well, somebody told me that the Senate president daughter was taken without, not through a regular interview, not through the normal, but that is his own problem,” Oshiomhole said.

He also responded to criticism surrounding reports that the Senate distanced itself from the arrest warrant issued against former NNPC boss Mele Kyari. Oshiomhole maintained that the National Assembly acted within the powers granted to it by the Constitution.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana.

The monarch, who is said to be 60 years old, was reportedly taken from his residence on Saturday night after armed men stormed the community.

Sources said the attackers, believed to be about six in number, arrived at about 8:30 p.m. and opened fire during the operation. The gunmen allegedly shot the monarch’s wife before taking Adelana into a nearby forest.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the injured woman is receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.

Jimoh said security personnel were immediately deployed to the area after the attack. He added that tactical teams have commenced an intensive search of the forest and surrounding communities in an effort to rescue the abducted traditional ruler.

He said, “A comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was immediately activated, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to track the movement of the kidnappers, secure the victim’s safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the victim is reunited safely with his family while all those involved face the full weight of the law.

“The Ondo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may aid ongoing operations.”

The police said efforts are ongoing to locate the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of the traditional ruler. Authorities also appealed to residents to support security agencies with useful information that could assist the rescue operation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, has cautioned the Federal Government and state governments against holding talks or striking deals with terrorists and bandits, insisting that such actions are contrary to the law.

Falana gave the warning while delivering the keynote address at Amnesty International’s Second Annual General Meeting held in Abuja on June 13, 2026.

He argued that it is widely known that some government officials at both the federal and state levels have engaged in negotiations with terrorists and armed groups. According to him, these engagements have resulted in several individuals described as “repentant” criminals receiving pardons and undisclosed cash rewards.

The senior advocate maintained that groups such as Boko Haram have already been outlawed under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act. He stressed that members of such organisations and those associated with them should face prosecution rather than receive favourable treatment from the authorities.

Falana stated that the law provides clear penalties for anyone who knowingly associates with or supports terrorist groups. In support of his position, he cited Section 22 of the Act, which states:

“A person who knowingly—(a) arranges, manages, assists in arranging or managing, participates in a meeting or an activity, which in his knowledge is concerned or connected with an act of terrorism or terrorist group, (b) collects, or provides logistics, equipment, information, articles or facilities for a meeting or an activity, which in his knowledge is concerned or connected with an act of terrorism or terrorist group, or (c) attends a meeting, which in his knowledge is to support a proscribed entity or to further the objectives of a proscribed entity, commits an offence, and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of at least 20 years.”

The legal practitioner said the provisions of the law should guide government actions in dealing with terrorist groups and their members, rather than negotiations that could undermine efforts to combat insecurity.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has announced that multiple road projects in Nigeria’s South East region—first conceived during the colonial era but abandoned for decades—are now being actualised under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking on Saturday in Ebonyi State during a tour of legacy projects with senior journalists and government officials, Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, highlighted the Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue Trans-Saharan Superhighway as a strategic corridor for the South East, South South, and parts of the North Central region.

“It is a colonial-era dream long forgotten, but President Tinubu has revived it, and construction is now underway. We must thank him immensely,” Umahi said.

The minister reported steady progress on the project, noting that Section One, initially 118 kilometres, has been extended to 123.6 kilometres, with a contract sum of ₦45 billion. Dualisation works are ongoing.

Section Two, which runs from the Aboadi border through Benue and Kogi States to Nasarawa, has been awarded at ₦668 billion. Umahi said the project has reached about 28% completion in some areas, with work continuing through the rainy season due to President Tinubu’s adoption of concrete road technology.

“The Trans‑Sahara Superhighway is not just a road; it is an investment corridor that will catalyse trade in agricultural produce like cassava, yams, cashews, and palm oil from Cross River, Benue and Ebonyi, while also connecting Nigeria to Cameroon,” Umahi explained.

He noted that concrete road technology, pioneered by President Tinubu as governor, is now being deployed nationwide. Umahi expressed the South East’s gratitude for what he called an end to decades of exclusion. “All our forefathers sought—inclusiveness—we have it now,” he said.

During the tour, the team inspected critical bridges in Section One, concrete pavement on the Onueke section, and the 1.3-kilometre Ndi-Egbe Bridge in Afikpo LGA, Ebonyi, which links Ugep in Cross River State and is expected to be completed by December 2026.

The Onueke Flyover in Ebonyi’s Central Senatorial District, a ₦35 billion project, stands 90 metres high and is flanked by a 2.2-kilometre road on both sides, designed to decongest the highway.

Meanwhile, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru declared that his state remains the safest in Nigeria, with no reported kidnapping cases since he assumed office. Receiving the media delegation in Abakaliki, Nwifuru thanked President Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure development in the South East and highlighted numerous completed and ongoing projects across the state, including rural roads, primary health centres, and water schemes.

“We have kept contractors busy in the state with projects spread across every local government area. We do not even view the road projects as a big deal because we have road projects scattered all over the state,” Nwifuru said.

South East governors and leaders are scheduled to converge on Abakaliki on Monday for a major rally to endorse President Tinubu for a second term. Umahi said Governor Nwifuru would lead the people of Ebonyi State at the rally to show appreciation to the President.

The National Media Tour, organised by the Governor Hope Uzodimma-led Renewed Hope Ambassadors in collaboration with the Presidential Media Team, will proceed from Ebonyi to Enugu State on Monday, and later to Abia, Anambra, and Imo States.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has alleged that certain enemies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are responsible for financing the country’s deteriorating security situation, with the aim of undermining the success of Nigeria’s democracy.

Akpabio made the remarks in Abuja during the launch of three books honouring former military Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, as part of celebrations marking his 84th birthday. One of the books is a biography of the former leader.

The Senate President praised Abdulsalami for his role in transitioning power to a civilian administration in 1999, a move that laid the foundation for the democracy Nigeria continues to enjoy to this day.