Author: Gabby

The Action Alliance (AA) has raised alarms over the recent Federal High Court ruling that struck off the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and four other political parties from registration. National Chairman Kenneth Udeze stated that this judicial action poses a significant risk to the orderly conduct of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Udeze noted that political entities are actively mobilizing support and finalizing preparations for the upcoming electoral cycle. He warned that stripping parties of their legal status at this juncture could derail those efforts and undermine democratic participation.

“Democracy depends on a range of viewpoints and avenues for political expression. Nigerians must have expanded opportunities to pursue their political ambitions, not a reduced democratic space,” Udeze asserted.

While reaffirming the party’s respect for the judiciary and the rule of law, the AA chairman emphasized that the decision raises fundamental questions about the inclusivity of the electoral process and the fairness of upcoming elections.

Udeze pointed out that the development is especially troubling given that the Court of Appeal had reportedly stayed proceedings in the matter. “Citizens should have more avenues to voice their political preferences, not fewer options in a democratic setting,” he added.

The party further cautioned that deregistering political parties ahead of a general election could disenfranchise members, disrupt years of grassroots organizing, and create unnecessary friction within the political system. Instead of outright deregistration, Udeze argued that compliance issues and electoral infractions should be addressed through dialogue, reforms, and established legal channels.

“A healthy democracy cannot be built on exclusion,” the statement concluded.

Prince Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential flagbearer for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has strongly criticized a recent court decision that mandates the deregistration of several political parties. He described the ruling as unconstitutional and a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundations.

In a statement shared on his X handle, Adebayo argued that there exists no legal, constitutional, or ethical justification for suppressing alternative political platforms through government-backed judicial actions. He expressed deep concern that this order comes just days after the nation celebrated Democracy Day, a time when democratic values were reaffirmed.

Although his own party is not among those affected, Adebayo emphasized that staying silent on such injustice would amount to abandoning democratic principles. He called on all Nigerians and democracy advocates to stand in solidarity with the impacted parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Alliance (AA), Action People’s Party (APP), Accord Party (AP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

Adebayo highlighted that Nigeria’s rich social, cultural, religious, economic, and ideological diversity necessitates a wide array of political platforms for citizens to pursue their aspirations freely. He pledged support for the affected parties in their lawful pursuit of justice and reinstatement, asserting that democratic participation must never be restricted.

He further advocated for constitutional reforms to strip the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its power to register or deregister political parties, limiting its role solely to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. Instead, he proposed a system where political associations can field candidates freely, subject to statutory deposits that would be forfeited if they fail to secure a minimum vote percentage.

Adebayo warned against policies that could escalate political tension, urging leaders to focus on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting national development. The court ruling, delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Abuja Federal High Court on Monday, orders INEC to deregister the ADC, Accord Party, and others, barring them from participating in the 2027 general elections.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has made a startling claim regarding the suspension of Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. During an interview on AIT, he alleged that the signatures of some senators were falsified to push through the disciplinary action.

Oshiomhole stated that several lawmakers whose names appeared on the committee report later denied signing it. He specifically mentioned Senator Ireti Kingibe of the Federal Capital Territory, who reportedly expressed shock upon learning her name was included among endorsers of the document.

The former Edo State governor explained that committee reports typically require signatures from members who agree with the findings. Those who disagree can choose not to sign or abstain entirely. However, he noted that in this case, some senators claimed their names were listed without their consent.

This revelation comes after Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described Natasha’s suspension as one of the most regrettable actions taken by the current Senate. Oshiomhole’s remarks have added a new layer of controversy to the ongoing political drama.

A member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu, claiming that a recent federal court judgment is pushing the nation toward chaos. Representing the Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency in Imo State, Ugochinyere made these remarks on Monday, reacting to the court’s order to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the Action Peoples Party (APP), and three other political parties.

He argued that this ruling could trigger a period of severe political instability, likening it to dark chapters in Nigeria’s history and other parts of Africa. The lawmaker called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to thoroughly investigate the circumstances behind the judgment, alleging that key legal arguments and past judicial decisions were overlooked.

Ugochinyere also urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to step in and protect the integrity of the judicial system, warning that public trust in the courts could be severely damaged if such concerns are not addressed. “This is a pure invitation to anarchy,” he stated. “The judiciary is the last hope of the common man. If superior court judgments can be ignored, we are jeopardizing one of democracy’s most vital institutions.”

The Federal Ministry of Education has officially refuted claims that its education data management system was compromised by hackers. In a statement released on June 16, 2026, the ministry described the reports as false and misleading.

According to Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the ministry, the allegations stemmed from a misunderstanding. The ministry clarified that the NEMIS platform was never breached or hacked, and all data remains secure and accessible.

The issue arose from a temporary Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate configuration error at the hosting level, which triggered security warnings on some users’ browsers. The ministry stressed that this was a technical glitch, not a cyberattack, and that no unauthorized access, data loss, or data alteration occurred.

Following the discovery, the ministry’s technical team collaborated with the hosting provider to resolve the issue promptly, restoring normal operations. The ministry emphasized that browser security alerts should not be automatically interpreted as evidence of a data breach.

The Nigeria Education Data Infrastructure is a key federal initiative aimed at improving education data governance, integration, and accessibility. NEMIS plays a critical role in collecting, managing, and utilizing education data. The ministry continues to implement security measures, monitor systems, and conduct periodic assessments to safeguard the platform.

Finally, the ministry urged media organizations and the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary alarm and undermine confidence in government digital platforms. It called on stakeholders to ignore reports suggesting that NEMIS had been compromised, reiterating that such claims are baseless.

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has voiced strong opposition to the recent deregistration of political parties by a Federal High Court. He argues that this judicial action poses a serious risk to public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic and legal institutions.

In a statement shared on his X handle, Obi cautioned against what he sees as an increasing politicization of institutions that should remain impartial and insulated from political meddling. He emphasized that nations thrive when their institutions are more resilient than any individual or political agenda.

Reacting specifically to the court ruling that ordered the deregistration of parties including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Obi asserted that such decisions further erode public faith in the legal system. He called for the reversal of the judgment, warning that it undermines the integrity of the judiciary.

Obi recalled his earlier concerns during the controversy surrounding the removal of former Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen, noting that the most damaging effect of such actions is the perception they create about the sanctity and independence of national institutions. He stressed that a strong economy relies on trust, and while investors can cope with security, policy, and market risks, they are often deterred by uncertainties in the rule of law and perceived judicial interference.

The former Anambra governor pointed out that many Nigerians have lost faith in systems meant to protect them, with businesses increasingly opting for foreign jurisdictions to govern their contracts due to greater confidence in those legal frameworks. He pledged his commitment to restoring the dignity, independence, and integrity of the judiciary, insisting that justice must remain impartial, accessible, and respected by all.

Obi also called on judges, senior advocates, lawyers, and other legal professionals to defend the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions in Nigeria.

In a decisive move to tackle persistent security threats, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has implemented a ban on the sale of fuel in jerrycans and ordered the shutdown of all Point of Sale (POS) centres across the state. This executive order aims to cut off logistical support for bandits and kidnappers operating in the region.

The announcement came after an urgent security meeting convened by the governor, which included representatives from security agencies, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders. The meeting focused on addressing the ongoing insecurity that has plagued several parts of the state.

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, issued a statement on Tuesday confirming the new measures. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to taking all legal and necessary actions to guarantee the safety and security of communities, fostering an environment conducive to economic and social progress.

Governor Radda explained that intelligence reports and security assessments revealed that criminal networks have been exploiting these facilities to coordinate and sustain their illicit activities. By restricting fuel sales to jerrycans, the government intends to prevent supplies from reaching criminals hiding in forests and remote areas.

Additionally, the executive order imposes a complete ban on motorcycle use in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. This restriction is designed to hinder the mobility of bandits and kidnappers, who frequently use motorcycles to launch attacks and evade security forces.

The governor emphasized that protecting lives and property remains his administration’s primary duty. He assured residents of continued collaboration with security agencies to restore lasting peace and stability throughout Katsina State. Citizens are urged to comply with the directives and to support security operations by providing timely and credible information to help combat criminal elements.

Radda also warned that violators of the executive order will face strict penalties, stressing that his administration will not tolerate any breach of the directives.

Former ADC presidential aspirant Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening security conditions and economic struggles, emphasizing that his remarks are not politically motivated. Following the tragic death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar while in captivity, Hayatu-Deen highlighted the nation’s fourth-place ranking on the Global Terrorism Index and a 46% rise in terrorism-related fatalities.

In a recent statement, he recalled that 27 days have passed since the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire, Oyo State, with no resolution. He also referenced violent incidents in Kogi State where a vice principal, a child, and another person were killed during WAEC exams, alongside attacks in Borno and Kaduna states. Hayatu-Deen asserted that mere condolences for fallen soldiers and victims are inadequate.

He linked insecurity to economic hardship, noting that poverty, unemployment, and inflation make it easier for criminals to recruit. To address this, he urged governments at all levels to expand social welfare, support struggling businesses, assist farmers, and strengthen safety nets for vulnerable populations.

Hayatu-Deen welcomed the House of Representatives’ passage of a constitutional amendment to establish state police, calling on the Senate to move swiftly. While cautioning that state police is not a panacea, he described it as a vital step toward local security, provided protections against abuse and political interference are included. He also advocated for community policing, better intelligence, revitalizing the Multinational Joint Task Force, and cross-border security cooperation.

Additionally, he called for increased support for the military through recruitment, improved welfare, modern equipment, and international partnerships. He praised operations that rescued 360 women and children in Borno but warned that more is needed to prevent lawlessness. Hayatu-Deen urged a whole-of-society approach, stressing that unity and collective action are essential for restoring peace and stability.

The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action by sealing a dozen commercial establishments across the metropolis for multiple infractions, including excessive noise, air pollution, impeding enforcement personnel, and repeated violations of environmental statutes. The operation, executed on Monday, June 15, 2026, was a joint effort by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI).

Westgate Arena Club, situated at Apostolic Church Close in Olowora, was among the first to be closed due to persistent noise levels that exceeded permissible limits. The enforcement came at the behest of Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, as part of the state’s ongoing crackdown on environmental infractions.

The affected facilities had been issued multiple warnings and abatement notices, which they deliberately ignored, forcing the authorities to seal them. The exercise targeted establishments that flouted core environmental rules, from generating excessive sound to releasing pollutants into the air, obstructing officers in the line of duty, or failing to adhere to agency directives.

Other premises penalized include Golden Click Hotel on Cados Road, Baruwa, for non-compliance with LASEPA directives; 14:02 Lounge and Bar on Command Road, Aralamo Bus Stop, Ipaja, closed for noise pollution; Cherubim and Seraphim Church on Olumuyiwa Jacobs Street, Aguda, Surulere, sealed for the same reason; and Kilo Hotel on Adeniyi Adefioye Street, Kilo, Surulere, for failing to meet environmental requirements. Max Lounge on Bode Thomas Street, Surulere, was shut down for both noise and air pollution, while The Hotel Macs on Enitan Street, Aguda, Surulere, was closed for ignoring the agency’s orders. Hotel Bel Am on Agbebi Street, Ijesha, and Fecomillion Hotel on Salami Bashorun Street, Ijesha, Surulere, were also sealed for noise pollution and non-compliance, respectively.

The enforcement sweep extended to PetroSafe Gas Station on Ijesha Road, sealed for obstructing duties and non-compliance; Serena Hotel and Suites on Ashoge Street, off Cele Bus Stop, Surulere, closed for non-compliance; CitiLounge on Mobe Street, Ishaga, sealed for noise pollution; and Gariot on Ogunlana Drive, penalized for obstruction and failure to follow environmental regulations.

Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, reiterated the agency’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring a pristine environment throughout the state. He emphasized that adhering to environmental regulations is a collective duty, urging both individuals and corporations to comply strictly. Ajayi noted that LASEPA would ramp up enforcement actions against offenders to curb environmental nuisances and shield residents from pollution’s harmful effects. He called on citizens and business owners to embrace eco-friendly practices and collaborate with regulators to foster a cleaner, healthier Lagos. The agency vowed to deploy all legal means necessary to enforce environmental standards, creating a safer, more sustainable habitat for all.

The Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Isyaku Mohammed, has renewed the Nigeria Police Force’s promise to intensify efforts in reducing crime and ensuring public safety, especially in Nasarawa State. During a working visit to the Nasarawa State Police Command, Mohammed, who oversees Training and Development and coordinates operations in the North-Central region, conveyed the Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu’s dedication to community-driven security strategies.

At the gathering, which brought together security chiefs, traditional rulers, religious leaders, transport union officials, members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, the Inter-Party Advisory Council, the Police Community Relations Committee, and local residents, the DIG stressed that sustainable security hinges on collaborative efforts. He noted that effective policing must begin at the grassroots, urging officers to adopt proactive measures, intelligence-led operations, and visible patrols to curb criminal activities.

Mohammed also directed law enforcement to crack down on unregistered vehicles, those with tampered number plates, and cars displaying manufacturer logos instead of official registration marks. He cautioned personnel to carry out their duties with professionalism, avoiding extortion, harassment, or any form of misconduct. Furthermore, he warned tactical units to operate strictly within legal boundaries and uphold human rights, underlining that actions undermining public trust would not be tolerated.

The DIG praised officers for their dedication and sacrifices in fighting crime nationwide, assuring them that their welfare remains a top priority for the police leadership. Speaking on behalf of the Emir of Lafia, Alhaji Isyaka Dauda, commended the police for their efforts in maintaining peace in the state. He revealed that the Emirate Council holds weekly security meetings with traditional rulers to address emerging threats and devise local solutions.

Other stakeholders acknowledged significant improvements in Nasarawa’s security under the current police leadership but appealed for additional personnel, patrol vehicles, and logistics to bolster the command’s response capabilities. Commissioner of Police Shetima Jauro Mohammed assured the DIG that the command would continue implementing directives to strengthen community policing and protect lives and property across the state. The visit highlighted the force’s commitment to stakeholder engagement, intelligence-led policing, and community partnerships as key pillars for lasting peace and security in Nasarawa.