Month: June 2026

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Kebbi State Police Command has refuted reports alleging that schools across the state have been shut down because of insecurity, describing the claims as untrue.

In a statement released on Saturday in Birnin Kebbi, the command’s spokesperson, SP Bashir Usman, addressed reports that schools had been closed, pupils withdrawn by their parents, and kidnappings had disrupted academic activities.

Usman said there was no basis for such claims. He stated that schools are operating normally across the state and academic activities are progressing according to schedule.

He explained that students recently resumed for a new academic term. He also noted that final-year students are currently writing the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) safely at various centres within the state.

According to the police spokesperson, the school calendar remains intact and continues to be managed by the Ministry of Education without any disruption linked to security challenges.

Usman further stated that security agencies are working closely with vigilante groups to conduct intelligence-driven operations aimed at maintaining peace and safeguarding communities across Kebbi State.

He said recent arrests of suspected criminals and the elimination of some criminal elements reflect the impact of ongoing security operations. He urged residents to ignore rumours that could create unnecessary fear and anxiety among the public.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Anambra State Government has confirmed the arrest of Pastor Harrison Charles, founder of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, over allegations that he took several married women from their husbands and made them his wives.

The pastor has also been accused by some church members of compelling couples to exchange spouses and of taking the wives of members of his congregation for himself.

The allegations surfaced as the state government continues its campaign against individuals it describes as fake clerics. In recent weeks, several people have come forward with complaints about their experiences after the government prosecuted a number of pastors in court.

The governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Ejimofor Opara, announced the arrest in a post on Facebook. He said the suspect has been handed over to the police and is now the subject of a joint investigation involving the Anambra State Government and the police command.

Opara urged members of the public who may have information about the pastor’s activities to come forward and assist investigators.

According to him: “Pastor Harrison Charles, owner of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, was arrested by operatives of Agunechemba following a viral video containing several allegations against him.

“He is currently being investigated by the police, in collaboration with the Anambra State Government.

“During his arrest, about eleven babies were found in his home. He claims to be the father of these eleven babies, stating they are from eleven of his wives.

“He also claims he does not know the number of wives he has married or the total number of children he has.

“While investigations continue, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Mr. Ken Emeakayi, has urged anyone with additional information to report it to the State Government via 08034182108.”

Authorities said investigations into the allegations are ongoing. They encouraged anyone with relevant information to assist in the process.

By Uzair Adam

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against insecurity, stressing that the challenge requires collective action, prayers, and sustained support for security agencies.

Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a national problem that affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion.

His remarks come amid renewed security concerns across parts of the country, following recent incidents of killings and abductions in some states.

Among the affected areas were communities in Oyo and Borno states, where armed groups reportedly attacked schools and abducted students and teachers.

Matawalle said the government remains committed to tackling insecurity and urged political actors to refrain from using security challenges as a tool for political campaigns.

“It is unfortunate, and all of us must work together to support our security agencies in overcoming this challenge. Insecurity does not target people based on their political party or religion; it affects everyone,” he said.

The minister accused some opposition figures of exploiting security incidents to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that such actions could discourage national efforts aimed at restoring peace.

According to him, some individuals have been circulating old and misleading videos on social media to create the impression that insecurity has worsened under the current administration.

“There are videos being shared online that are either outdated or taken from other countries, yet they are presented as recent events in Nigeria. This does not reflect the reality on the ground,” he said.

Matawalle maintained that security personnel are working tirelessly across the country to confront terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements.

He added that overcoming insecurity is a gradual process and not a challenge that can be resolved overnight.

He called on Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and praying for peace, expressing confidence that ongoing efforts would eventually yield positive results.

“We must remain united and committed to ending insecurity. Our security operatives are doing their best, and with the support and prayers of Nigerians, we will continue making progress,” he added.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Amnesty International has condemned a fresh attack in Zamfara State that reportedly left at least 17 farmers dead and 13 others injured after suspected bandits invaded farmlands in the area.

The human rights organisation disclosed the incident in a post on X on Saturday. It said the attack occurred in Goron Namaye, Maradun Local Government Area, on Friday, June 12, 2026, which coincided with Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration.

Reacting to the incident, Amnesty International said: “Yesterday, bandits invaded farmlands at Goron Namaye in Maradun local government area, killing 17 farmers while injuring at least 13 others.

“The Nigerian authorities must do more to end the incessant atrocities committed by bandits and other armed groups almost daily.

“As the rainy season sets in, farming in Zamfara state is now a matter of life and death.”

The organisation stated that the recurring attacks on communities in Zamfara and other parts of the country point to what it described as the authorities’ inability to effectively tackle insecurity.

According to Amnesty International, “The authorities’ lethargy has allowed impunity to flourish and the killings to spread to many parts of the country, inflicting greater suffering on communities who already live in constant fear of the next attack.”

The group also criticised the federal government’s handling of the security situation, saying: “The Nigerian government has also displayed what can only be described as gross incompetence and has failed in its duty to protect the lives of its population and end the intensifying attacks and abductions.”

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in Zamfara State, where armed groups have continued to target rural communities, attack farmers, abduct residents, and disrupt economic activities despite repeated security operations.

The attack comes as many farmers across the state return to their fields following the onset of the rainy season, raising fresh concerns about food security and the safety of rural populations in Nigeria’s North-West region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Katsina State Government has announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while he was being held by bandits.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu, the government expressed sadness over the development. It stated that efforts by the state government and security agencies to secure the retired army officer’s freedom did not succeed before his death.

According to the statement, the late General died from health complications linked to diabetes and hypertension while in captivity.

The government described the incident as a significant loss to the deceased’s family, Katsina State and Nigeria as a whole.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda also conveyed his condolences to the family of the late military officer and the nation. The governor characterised the incident as a “dark moment” and said it highlights the need for stronger collaboration in tackling criminal groups that continue to threaten peace and security in communities.

The state government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure those behind the crime are held accountable.

It also assured residents that its determination to combat banditry and improve security across the state remains firm.

The government prayed for the repose of the deceased and expressed sympathy to his family during the period of mourning.

By Jamiu Abdulgafar Olamilekan

The Punch Newspaper editorial on May 5, 2026 (Page 18), titled “Women Need Better Access to Credit”, highlights one of Nigeria’s most persistent economic blind spots. Despite their immense contributions to business, agriculture, trade, and family welfare, women remain locked out of the financial support they need to grow and thrive.

Across Nigerian markets, women dominate petty trading and small-scale enterprises from fashion shops and food businesses to salons, online ventures, and farming. Yet, securing loans from banks is often impossible.

As the editorial points out, collateral requirements, guarantors, and complex documentation create barriers that many hardworking women in both rural and urban communities cannot overcome.

This exclusion is, to say the least, unjust. Women are among the most financially responsible members of society, stretching limited resources to support children, families, and entire communities. Still, government empowerment programmes frequently fail to reach them.

In some cases, corruption, favouritism, and poor implementation dilute their impact, while lack of financial education and weak communication leave rural women unaware of opportunities that could change their lives.

Going forward, banks and other financial institutions must design loan systems that are flexible and inclusive. Lower interest rates for female-owned small businesses, coupled with expanded financial literacy programmes, would ensure women not only access credit but also manage it effectively.

The government, on its part, must enforce transparency and accountability in policies aimed at empowering women.

Beyond economics, financial empowerment strengthens families and reduces poverty. A woman with a stable income is more likely to invest in education, healthcare, and better living conditions for her household. The ripple effect benefits society at large.

Nigeria cannot claim to pursue inclusive growth while millions of women remain financially excluded. Empowering women is not charity — it is a strategic investment in the nation’s future.

Jamiu Abdulgafar Olamilekan is a Strategic Communication student at Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja. He can be reached at jamiuabdulgafar510@gmail.com.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Protesters under the Nigeria Unite Against Terrorism banner marched through Abuja on Democracy Day, June 12, 2026, demanding urgent action against insecurity while distancing themselves from calls for President Bola Tinubu’s removal.

As Nigeria marked the 2026 Democracy Day anniversary, scores of demonstrators gathered in parts of Abuja on Friday, insisting their movement was solely about restoring peace and security, not unseating the current administration.

The protest came amid rising concern over worsening insecurity across the country, and followed a separate demonstration led by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), whose supporters had called for President Tinubu’s resignation.

Organisers of Nigeria Unite Against Terrorism were quick to draw a clear line. “We are not asking anybody to leave government. We are not saying an end to any government. What we are saying is that Nigeria should live in peace,” one protest leader declared.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, organisers said Nigerians had reached a breaking point as terrorism, banditry and kidnapping spread across different regions.

“Nigerian citizens, enough is enough. Thank God Mr President in his speech this morning has told us that there is time to end plea bargains and other subtle approaches towards terrorism in Nigeria. This gives us hope that we are moving forward in the fight against terrorism,” the speaker said.

He traced the expansion of insecurity over the years: “In 2012, it was the North-East. By 2015, the North-West was engaged. Before we got to 2019, North-Central Nigeria was affected. Now this is 2026, the South-West is feeling the bite.”

He warned that failure to act decisively could leave the country vulnerable to non-state actors. “If we fold our arms and watch, Nigeria is about to be taken over by non-state actors… One day we will start paying taxes to bandits and deriving protection from those who seek to destroy us.”

According to organisers, the movement was initiated weeks ago to alert both government and citizens to the growing security emergency. “We have decided to make this move to bring to the notice of government and people in power that Nigerians are tired. Nigerians are making their voices known. Nigerians are saying that we are no longer comfortable with the trend of terrorism.”

Another speaker described the campaign as a non-partisan national movement uniting Nigerians across political, religious and ethnic lines. “We are not political. We are a sovereign nation called the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Everyone is now a victim of insecurity.”

He argued that successive governments have failed to permanently address the problem. “Government comes, government goes, but the insecurity is still on. We acknowledge the efforts of our security operatives, but something is missing.”

The protesters called on Nigerians to set aside partisan interests and unite against what they described as the country’s common enemy. “It is now that we suspend our political differences. It is now that we suspend our religious beliefs and regional interests. We must promote a sovereign Nigeria that is safe from banditry, kidnapping and Boko Haram.”

They appealed to civil society organisations, religious groups, academics and ordinary citizens to join the campaign from the North to the West, from the South-East to the South-South — Muslims, Christians, pagans, free thinkers and the academic community.

The organisers urged the federal government to remain open to citizen suggestions on tackling insecurity and encouraged Nigerians to provide timely intelligence to security agencies. “When you see something, say something. And when you say something, the government should do something,” they said.

They also cautioned against sympathising with criminal groups. “Don’t be loyal to bandits. Don’t be loyal to kidnappers. Don’t be loyal to Boko Haram,” they added.

Reiterating that their campaign is not politically motivated but driven by a collective desire for peace, one organiser quoted British philosopher Edmund Burke: “When the bad men combine, the good must associate, else they will fall one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle.”

By Anas Abbas

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of renowned actor, dramatist, and academic, Kola Oyewo.

Oyewo, a respected figure in Yoruba theatre and Nollywood, built a career that spanned more than six decades, earning recognition for his contributions to stage productions, film, and arts education. He was widely celebrated for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s classic play The Gods Are Not to Blame, a role that cemented his place among Nigeria’s most accomplished performers.

Born in Oba-Ile, Osun State, the veteran actor began his professional acting journey in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group before later working with the University of Ife theatre troupe. Throughout his career, he featured in several notable productions, including Sango, Saworoide, Koseegbe, and Super Story.

Beyond acting, Oyewo distinguished himself as a scholar. He obtained advanced degrees in drama and lectured at several higher institutions, including Obafemi Awolowo University, where he rose through the academic ranks before retirement.

He also served in teaching and leadership roles at other universities, mentoring generations of theatre practitioners and students.

Only months ago, the celebrated thespian marked his 80th birthday and received tributes from prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, who described him as a cultural ambassador and a national treasure for his immense contributions to Nigerian storytelling and the preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, fans, and cultural stakeholders who remember him as a gifted performer, teacher, and custodian of Nigerian theatre traditions.

Details surrounding his death and funeral arrangements were yet to be fully disclosed at the time of filing this report.

By Uzair Adam


The Borno State Government has announced plans to establish modern rehabilitation centres for juvenile and minor offenders as part of efforts to promote restorative justice and reduce crime among young people.

The state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hauwa Abubakar, disclosed this on Friday during a briefing to commemorate the June 12 Democracy Day celebration in Maiduguri.

According to her, the initiative is aimed at moving away from an exclusively punitive justice system toward one that focuses on rehabilitation, counselling, and reintegration.

She noted that punishment alone cannot bring about lasting behavioural change, stressing the need for psychological assessment, vocational training, and proper reorientation of offenders.

“Punishment in isolation does not yield the sustainable behavioural reform we desire. We must adopt a compassionate and comprehensive rehabilitation framework that counsels, heals and empowers young offenders, giving them a genuine second chance to become productive and law-abiding citizens,” Abubakar said.

The commissioner explained that the rehabilitation centres form part of a broader agenda of reforms outlined by the administration of Governor Babagana Zulum to strengthen the justice sector, improve offender rehabilitation, and promote public morality.

She also revealed that the state government plans to construct a Judges’ Estate to improve the welfare of judicial officers and reinforce the independence of the judiciary.

According to her, the project has already been included in the current budget and will provide secure and befitting accommodation for judges across the state.

“This modern and high-security Judges’ Estate has already been captured in the current fiscal budget. It is designed to provide premium, secure and conducive accommodation befitting the status and dignity of judicial officers,” she stated.

Abubakar commended Governor Zulum for supporting judicial reforms and infrastructure development in the state.

She said several Magistrate, High and Sharia Courts have been renovated and equipped with modern facilities, while new judicial complexes have been constructed, particularly in communities affected by insurgency.

“As chairperson of the Borno State Anti-Social Vices Committee, we have adopted proactive, intelligence-driven and preventive measures that have contributed to a significant decline in crime and social vices across the state,” she added.

The attorney-general urged community leaders, parents and religious institutions to support efforts aimed at addressing moral decadence and guiding young people towards responsible conduct.

“Eradicating social vices and moral decay is a shared civic responsibility. We must work together to reshape the mindset of our youth and reduce all forms of immorality to the barest minimum,” she said.

By Uzair Adam

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested an Aviation Security (AVSEC) officer, Inspector Ali Baffa, alongside two other suspects over an alleged attempt to smuggle unprocessed gold bars valued at more than N4.4 billion through the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport.

The Kano Zonal Directorate of the EFCC disclosed that Baffa was apprehended on Thursday during a routine surveillance operation at the airport.

According to the commission, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly concealed 22.2 kilograms of gold bars inside his trousers with the intention of handing them over to passengers travelling to foreign destinations.

The investigation subsequently led to the arrest of Aushabu Nasidi, who was allegedly responsible for supplying the gold bars.

EFCC said Nasidi was found in possession of various foreign currencies, including Saudi Riyals, Turkish Lira, Kuwaiti Dinar, Philippine Peso, Australian Dollars, Chinese Renminbi, Algerian Dinar, Hong Kong Dollars, Hungarian Forint and Sudanese Dinar.

The anti-graft agency also arrested Mukhtar Muhammad Dan Zaria, who allegedly delivered the gold to Nasidi.

During interrogation, Dan Zaria reportedly confessed to smuggling approximately 40.2 kilograms of gold between June 1 and June 11, 2026, using the same method.

The EFCC stated that all three suspects remain in custody and will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.