Author: Gabby

The Action Peoples Party (APP) in Osun State has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to bolster the security of its technological infrastructure ahead of the governorship election scheduled for August 15.

In a statement released on Sunday by Odesola Oluseye Titus, the APP chairman in Osun, the party warned against any attempts to manipulate electoral technology, stressing that the integrity of the election must be protected.

The APP demanded that INEC take immediate steps to secure all electronic systems used in the electoral process, including rigorous checks on the voter register, ensuring card readers function properly, and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.

“We call on INEC to act swiftly to safeguard the entire technological framework from fraudulent activities and tampering,” the statement read. “This involves strict verification of the voters’ roll, operational card readers, and robust data protection measures.”

The party insisted that every eligible voter must be allowed to exercise their franchise freely and fairly, without any technical hindrances.

“We expect INEC to uphold its constitutional duty to the people and guarantee that the election is transparent, credible, and free from any form of technical manipulation,” the party added.

The APP’s concerns stem from reports of alleged technical irregularities during the recent governorship election in Ekiti State, which have raised doubts about the reliability of electoral technology.

“The residents of Osun State have watched with growing concern the reports of technical anomalies in the Ekiti election. These issues demand greater scrutiny of the technology used in future polls,” the statement noted.

The party warned that the people of Osun would not tolerate any form of electoral manipulation using technology. “We make it unequivocally clear that the people of Osun will reject any attempt to rig or tamper with the democratic process through technical means.”

“The citizens are closely monitoring developments, and we will not hesitate to mobilize against any tactics aimed at disenfranchising voters or manipulating the outcome of the August 15 governorship election,” Titus emphasized.

The APP expressed hope that INEC would provide assurances that the upcoming election would be conducted with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness.

The Action Peoples Party in Osun State has issued a strong appeal to security operatives, urging them to ensure full implementation of a recent Federal High Court judgment regarding the local government impasse.

In a statement released on Sunday by its chairman, Odesola Titus, the party emphasized that the court’s decision unequivocally affirms the mandate of democratically elected council officials.

The Federal High Court in Osogbo ruled that the continued stay in office of APC-affiliated chairmen and councillors is unconstitutional, according to Odesola.

However, the APP clarified that the judgment does not nullify the local government elections conducted on February 22, 2025.

“We alert all security agencies in Osun State about the recent Federal High Court verdict. The court has clearly declared the continued tenure of Yes or No (APC) chairmen and councillors as illegal,” Odesola stated.

He stressed that the ruling reinforces the need to acknowledge and protect the authority of legitimately elected officials, warning against any unlawful interference with their duties.

“Given this verdict, we call on all relevant security bodies to act promptly to enforce compliance. It is vital to maintain peace, law, and order in our communities and to safeguard the mandate of those duly elected by the people of Osun State,” he added.

The party further urged security agencies to uphold democratic principles and ensure stability across local government areas in line with the court’s directive.

The APP expressed gratitude for the cooperation of security agencies and their dedication to the rule of law, expressing confidence that the democratic process in Osun would be respected.

This appeal follows Governor Ademola Adeleke’s vow that PDP-elected council officials from the February 22, 2025 polls would assume office on Monday, June 22, 2026.

The state government conducted the local government elections on February 22, 2025, which were overwhelmingly won by PDP candidates.

Governor Adeleke had sworn in the winners on February 23, 2025, but advised them not to report to council secretariats to avert violence.

Meanwhile, outgoing APC officials, whose terms ended on October 22, 2025, had approached the Federal High Court seeking an extension of their tenure.

On June 15, 2026, the court dismissed their application, ruling that they lacked the legal right to file the suit.

The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of betraying a growing sense of unease regarding the rising political appeal of its governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.

According to the party, residents of Ogun are eagerly anticipating a fresh direction, and no amount of political spin can halt the transformative wave sweeping across the state. The PDP Youth Leader, Comrade Lukman Ejalonibu, made this known in a statement released on Sunday.

Ejalonibu pointed out that recent remarks by Olamide Lawal, the Special Assistant on Youth Development to the Ogun State Governor, about Adebutu inadvertently exposed the contradictions within the ruling party. Lawal had previously claimed on a television program that Adebutu poses no real threat to the APC, lacking the political stamina and track record needed to unseat the incumbent.

He also argued that current zoning arrangements in the state significantly reduce any chance of Adebutu succeeding Governor Dapo Abiodun. In response, Ejalonibu argued that the APC’s persistent focus on Adebutu is a clear testament to his expanding popularity, acceptance, and deep connection with the people of Ogun State.

“It is both ironic and laughable that the APC, which insists Adebutu is no threat, continues to waste precious airtime discussing him. No political party invests so much energy attacking someone they consider irrelevant,” Ejalonibu said.

He further challenged attempts to dismiss Adebutu’s achievements as a former House of Representatives member, highlighting his constituency projects, educational scholarships, youth empowerment initiatives, and community development efforts. Ejalonibu described Adebutu as “a true son of Ogun State, whose heritage, dedication, and contributions to the state are undeniable.” He emphasized that Adebutu’s bond with the people predates his political ambitions.

The PDP youth leader stressed that the party’s primary mission is to offer credible alternatives and rally citizens around accountable, inclusive, and people-focused governance. He also criticized the APC for using zoning as a smokescreen to avoid substantive debates on pressing issues like unemployment, infrastructure decay, and economic hardship.

“Democracy thrives on ideas, competence, and public trust, not on fear-driven excuses. If Oladipupo Adebutu truly posed no threat, there would be no reason for the ruling party and its spokespersons to keep making him the focus of their political discussions,” Ejalonibu concluded.

The Kano State Police Commissioner, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has issued a stern warning that the state will not provide a safe harbor for criminals and swindlers. This declaration was made public on Sunday through a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa.

During a ceremony where recovered stolen vehicles were returned to their owners, the commissioner emphasized the police command’s zero-tolerance stance on crime. The statement highlighted that four stolen vehicles were recovered through intelligence-driven operations by the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) and Badawa Division across Kano, Yobe, and Kaduna states within the past week.

One major breakthrough involved the arrest of Suleiman Umar in Damaturu, Yobe State. He allegedly used a fake bank alert to fraudulently obtain a red Kia Forte worth N9.5 million from a car dealer based in Lagos. The suspect confessed to the crime, and the vehicle was recovered and handed back to its owner.

In another operation, a red Daihatsu Sirion stolen from outside a residence in Tarauni Local Government Area, Kano State, was recovered abandoned. Efforts to arrest the fleeing suspects are ongoing. Similarly, an ash-colored Hyundai Elantra stolen from an event center in Kano was recovered in Zaria, Kaduna State, after the suspects abandoned it during a tactical police operation.

A Toyota ambulance belonging to EHA Special Hospital was also recovered. The vehicle, along with solar batteries and other items, was stolen after attackers assaulted security guards. It was found abandoned along Zaria Road and returned to the hospital management.

The vehicle owners praised the Kano State Police Command for their swift response and professionalism in recovering and returning their property. Commissioner Bakori reiterated that criminals involved in vehicle theft and fraud would find no sanctuary in Kano State. He also urged the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to aid ongoing investigations and enhance public safety.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has extended his heartfelt appreciation to fathers throughout Nigeria in celebration of Father’s Day. He emphasized that the contributions of fathers to family unity, societal harmony, and national advancement are truly invaluable.

In a statement released by CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, Disu highlighted the Nigeria Police Force’s acknowledgment of the efforts, commitment, and guidance provided by fathers. These men play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and reinforcing the ethical foundations needed for a tranquil and prosperous society.

The IGP also underscored the essential role of fathers in raising well-rounded children, fostering strong moral values, and teaching principles such as discipline, integrity, diligence, and patriotism—all vital for nation-building. He observed that the everyday sacrifices fathers make through mentoring, safeguarding, and supporting their families help solidify the social fabric and drive national progress.

Special recognition was given to police officers who, despite the challenges of their profession, remain devoted fathers and mentors at home. Disu commended these officers for balancing the demands of national service with their parental duties, often spending extended periods away from home yet staying committed to their families.

He wished all fathers continued good health, strength, wisdom, and fulfillment, and urged Nigerians to value and acknowledge the sacrifices, dedication, and lasting influence of fathers. Their efforts, he said, are instrumental in building a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.

The internal crisis within the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) escalated further on Sunday when its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, announced the expulsion of several members associated with the dissolved 3rd Administration of the Directorate of State (DOS), the group’s highest administrative body.

This development follows Kanu’s decision on June 17, 2026, to dissolve the DOS led by Chika Edoziem and appoint a new administration headed by Chris Nwaogu. Edoziem opposed this move and, in retaliation, issued a statement purportedly suspending Kanu as the group’s leader and also announcing the suspension of IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful.

In response, IPOB, through Powerful, dismissed the suspension as invalid and reaffirmed Kanu’s authority, citing the organization’s Code of Conduct, which grants the leader exclusive power to appoint and dissolve the DOS.

In a personal statement released on June 21, 2026, Kanu, currently serving a life sentence in Sokoto prison on terrorism charges, declared the immediate and indefinite expulsion of the Edoziem-led team. The expelled individuals include Chika Edoziem, Tony Nzurumike, Austin Agbanyim, Chukwudi Oforma, Isaiah Ubah, Colins Chinedu, Chinasa Nworu, Fidelis Ejiogu, Chidinma Nworu (also known as Juliet Edward Filatro), and Keke Uda.

Kanu stated, “I, Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Supreme Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Worldwide, Head of the Biafra Restoration Project and Director of Radio Biafra, hereby announce the indefinite expulsion of the following members of the dissolved 3rd Administration of the Directorate of State from the Indigenous People of Biafra with immediate effect. These individuals are hereby expelled from IPOB indefinitely. They no longer represent, speak for, or act in any capacity on behalf of the Indigenous People of Biafra.”

Providing context, Kanu explained that leadership changes in the DOS are not unprecedented. He noted that the 3rd Administration’s original six-month term expired in September 2017, and they continued in office at his pleasure. He differentiated the dissolution as an administrative action from the expulsion, which is a disciplinary measure.

Kanu emphasized that all actions were taken under the IPOB Code of Conduct, which vests authority to appoint, discipline, or expel solely in the Supreme Leader. He detailed multiple grounds for the expulsion, including: abandonment of the Supreme Leader and other Biafrans in detention without legal or medical support; countermanding his directives for fundraising when he was critically ill; undermining his legal case; making spurious allegations against his family; circulating false claims about his court case; and persistent violations of the IPOB Code of Conduct.

Kanu warned that anyone associating with or speaking on behalf of the expelled individuals would be considered acting against IPOB’s interests. He urged all genuine members and supporters to back the new 4th Administration led by Chris Nwaogu, concluding, “The movement remains resolute, focused, and united under my clear leadership and vision.”

A prominent Fulani socio-cultural organization, the Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria, has called on President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and restrain Yoruba nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, widely known as Sunday Igboho, following what they describe as incendiary statements targeting Fulani communities in Oyo State.

In a statement released on Sunday, the group’s convener, Ibrahim Barkindo Chubado, expressed alarm over reports that Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in the state over the alleged kidnapping of a woman and her children. Igboho reportedly threatened to take matters into his own hands if the victims were not freed within the timeframe, vowing to raid a forest reserve suspected to be a hideout for the abductors.

Chubado warned that singling out the Fulani ethnic group for crimes committed by individuals could inflame ethnic tensions and sabotage ongoing peace and security initiatives. He emphasized that the Fulani people oppose terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and all forms of criminality, insisting that illegal acts should not be generalized to an entire community.

The group noted that Fulani communities across Nigeria consist of law-abiding citizens who should not be collectively blamed for the actions of a few criminals. They voiced concern over a recurring pattern of associating Fulani identity with criminality without concrete evidence, cautioning that such broad generalizations could incite hostility and violence.

“We acknowledge that there are bad elements among Fulani, Hausa, and other northern ethnic groups. However, offenders should be dealt with as individuals, not profiled by ethnicity or religion. We urge the authorities to call Igboho to order,” the statement read.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has made it clear that the annual Egungun festival should not be used as an excuse to perpetrate violence in the historic city. The monarch, who previously served as governor of Oyo State, issued this directive through a statement delivered by his media representative, Chief Adeola Oloko.

According to information obtained by our correspondent, the scheduled start of the week-long festival is Monday. This period will see masquerades from various compounds across Ibadanland parading through key areas of the city.

In his address, the royal father urged both the masquerades and their supporters to avoid any form of aggression during and after the festivities. He emphasized that the true purpose of the festival is to promote unity and harmony among residents.

Ladoja stressed that the celebration should not be misused as a platform for personal vendettas, power struggles, or retaliatory acts. He warned that any violent behavior would face legal consequences.

“Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja has called on masquerades and their devotees to steer clear of violence throughout the festival and beyond, as such actions are punishable by law,” read the statement.

“This is a moment to reflect on our heritage—our origins and current state. It deserves to be enjoyed with music, dance, and joy.”

The Nigeria Society of Criminology (NSC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to promptly identify and bring to justice individuals involved in kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes, including their financiers. This appeal was made by NSC President, Professor Oludayo Tade, in a statement released on Sunday after the association’s 2026 international conference.

Professor Tade emphasized that Tinubu’s primary constitutional duty is to safeguard lives and property, and failure to do so would constitute a failure of leadership. He urged the President to demonstrate political will by intensifying efforts to secure the nation, ensuring that citizens can travel without fear and that schools and communities are no longer targets for abduction.

The conference, which drew prominent scholars including Professor Etannibi Alemika, Chairman of the NSC Board of Trustees, and Professor Temitope Oriola, former President of the Canadian Sociological Association, stressed the urgency of action. Tade called for collaborators within and outside government to be flushed out and punished, leveraging security agencies for effective prosecution.

Keynote speaker Professor Jibrin Ibrahim of the Centre for Democracy and Development lamented the deteriorating security situation, warning that Nigeria is fracturing due to widespread insecurity. He argued that the only solution is for the state to fulfill its role of protecting citizens and securing the country. Ibrahim cautioned against disintegration, describing it as a path to chaos, and urged the government to act swiftly to prevent further decline.

Comrade Andrew Emelieze, the National Coordinator of the All Workers Convergence (AWC), has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to abandon imperial tendencies. In a statement released on Sunday, Emelieze asserted that Tinubu’s governance has plunged Nigerians into severe economic hardship and social instability.

According to Emelieze, the current administration has become a primary cause of suffering for the populace. He called on the President to review the overwhelming public criticism against his leadership. The labour leader highlighted rampant insecurity, including kidnapping and banditry, as proof that the government’s policies exacerbate daily struggles for citizens.

Emelieze emphasized that Tinubu must reflect on his legacy and consider how history will judge him. He insisted that the President should stop acting like a monarch, emphasizing that Tinubu is merely a temporary occupant of Aso Rock, Nigeria’s presidential seat. “You are not the owner of Aso Villa; you are only a tenant,” Emelieze declared.

Emelieze further criticized the administration’s approach, labeling governance under Tinubu as hazardous to democracy. He accused the President of pursuing a covert agenda masked as public service. “Your policies betray a hidden plan, and your leadership lacks mass interest. The escalating killings demand your resignation or impeachment. If you had any conscience, you would step down voluntarily,” he stated.

The labour coordinator added that the general mood among Nigerians now calls for Tinubu’s exit, epitomized by the hashtag #TinubuMustGo. He urged the President to reform his ways before it is too late. “Your time in power is finite. You will not remain indefinitely; one day, you must depart. Look ahead and consider what people will say about you when you leave office. It is not too late to change,” Emelieze concluded.