Category: PM News

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has prohibited its members from the use of unauthorized Igbo traditional such as Ezeigbo, Ezendigbo, Igwe and similar monarchical designations titles outside recognized traditional institutions in Igbo land.

The State secretary of the group, Mr. Emmanuel Ofodu, gave the directive on Monday in Benin, following a resolution of the organization’s General Assembly held on April 9, 2026.

He noted that the directive applies to all Igbo communities in Edo State, across Nigeria and the wider Diaspora.

Ofodu further disclosed that creation or operation of parallel traditional leadership structures outside Igboland is not only culturally invalid but also allegedly inconsistent with a prior court ruling numbered B/290/2015.

He maintained that the only constitutionally and traditionally recognized authorities in Igboland have the mandate to confer such titles, warning that any individual or group involved in unauthorized coronations or installations would be acting in violation of both cultural directives and legal pronouncements.

The Edo State Secretary of the pan Igbo group added that the statement also reaffirmed cooperation with Edo State’s established traditional authority, including loyalty to the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, and other recognized traditional rulers across Edo North and Central senatorial districts.

He urged the security agencies, government authorities, and the public to treat any unauthorized use of such titles as invalid, insisting that enforcement of the directive is necessary to preserve cultural order and prevent inter-communal tensions.

He further emphasized that Igbo residents in Edo State should operate under recognized community frameworks, including town unions and the state chapter of Igbo Community Union, in line with broader coordination by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

Also speaking, the state legal adviser of the group, George Igbokwe, said the decision to proscribe such titles stemmed from the incidence that happened in South Africa where some of their sons were taking different titles.

“The message sent to Edo Chapter is to disseminate the information from their last executive meeting where the issue of some Igbo people in the diaspora take the title of Eze Ndigbo or Eze Igbo in their various places of business.

“The Ohanaeze Ndigbo noted that it has caused several problems in Ghana, in South Africa, in Amsterdam and other parts of the world.

“So they have put their feet down in conjunction with the Council of Traditional Rulers of Ndigbo that, that Eze Ndigbo or Eze Igbo or performing the duties of Eze Ndigbo in any form or manner should be totally and permanently proscribed and prohibited,” Igbokwe said.

Meanwhile, the group has reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence with host communities and adherence to existing traditional and administrative structures in the state.

This is even as it announced the commencement of a statewide civic mobilisation campaign aimed at boosting participation in the ongoing voter registration exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

It described the exercise as a critical opportunity for eligible citizens to update their records, obtain Permanent Voter Cards and strengthen political participation ahead of future elections, noting that participation is essential to civic influence.

It therefore appealed to all Igbo residents aged 18 and above to register, update their details where necessary, and ensure full participation in the electoral process.

By Isa Isawade

The Osun State Police Command has described viral videos currently circulating on social media regarding the alleged arrest of suspected bandits in some parts of the state as misleading.

Putting the record straight on the incident, the command in a statement released on Monday by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, stated as follows:

“The Osun State Police Command wishes to clarify certain misleading videos currently circulating on social media regarding the alleged arrest of suspected bandits in some parts of Osun State.

“The Command recalls that on 3rd June 2026, a man alleged by members of the public to be a suspected bandit was apprehended along LamecoOke-Fia Road, Osogbo. The suspect was immediately taken to Osogbo Area Command, Oke-Fia, Osogbo for investigation.

“Preliminary investigation led to the recovery of some items, including a knife, an army camouflage trouser, local charms, and clothing materials. During the course of investigation, the suspect exhibited signs of mental instability. Consequently, the case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a more thorough and discreet investigation.

“Further investigation revealed the suspect’s identity as Adebayo Sunday, aged 38 yrs. Members of his family subsequently visited the police and confirmed his identity. Detectives also contacted a native doctor who disclosed that he had treated the suspect for a mental-related condition over ten years ago.

“The suspect was thereafter taken to the Police Clinic, where he was referred to a psychiatric hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.

“Similarly, on 3rd June 2026, a video surfaced online alleging that some suspected bandits had been arrested in Imesi-Ile. Upon receipt of the information, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) promptly swung into action and arrested the individuals concerned for investigation.

“Following the directive of the Commissioner of Police, the case was transferred to the SCID for detailed investigation.

“Findings revealed that the matter was not related to banditry but rather a case of malicious damage involving farm land. The suspects identified as Abdullahi Umaru, Usman Bello, and Umaru Aliyu, who are cattle rearers residing in Imesi-Ile with their families and livestocks.

“During the investigation, the Village Head was contacted and confirmed that the cattle rearers and their families had lived peacefully within the community for over twenty years. The owners of the cattle were also interviewed as part of the investigation process.

“The investigation established a prima facie case of malicious damage. However, the complainants, Fatorisa Olawale and Adeniyi Adeoye, later informed the police of their intention to amicably resolve the matter and subsequently withdrew the complaint.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, mnips, therefore urges members of the public to desist from spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic and tension within the state. Citizens are encouraged to verify information through official channels and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

“The Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to respond professionally to all security concerns across the state.”

The recent judgment of the Federal High Court in Lagos declaring the National Assembly’s N110 billion vehicle and allowance schemes unlawful is a victory for accountability, transparency and the rule of law.

At a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling with rising food prices, high transport costs, unemployment and economic hardship, the decision to spend N40 billion on vehicles for lawmakers and N70 billion on allowances raised serious concerns among citizens. Many Nigerians questioned whether such spending reflected the country’s most pressing needs.

The court has now answered that question. By ruling against the expenditure, Justice Yellim Bogoro has reminded public officials that they are custodians of public resources and must use those resources in the best interest of the people.

One of the most important aspects of the judgment is the message it sends. The court made it clear that no arm of government is above the law. Whether it is the executive, legislature or judiciary, all public institutions must obey the Constitution and follow due process in the management of public funds.

The judgment also reinforces the principle that public office is a public trust. Elected officials are expected to make decisions that improve the lives of citizens, not decisions that create the impression that government exists mainly for the comfort of those in power.

Of equal importance is the court’s insistence on transparency and accountability. Public procurement laws were created to ensure that government spending is carried out openly, fairly and with value for money. When these rules are ignored, public confidence in government institutions suffers.

The National Assembly should therefore accept this judgment in good faith. Rather than view it as an attack on the legislature, lawmakers should see it as an opportunity to strengthen public trust and demonstrate commitment to responsible governance.

This ruling should also serve as a lesson for public officials across the country. Every naira of public money must be spent carefully and wisely. Government resources are not limitless, especially at a time when many citizens are finding it difficult to meet their daily needs.

Ultimately, this judgment is not just about vehicles or allowances. It is about priorities. It is about ensuring that those entrusted with public office act in the public interest. It is about reminding leaders that accountability remains the foundation of good governance.

For these reasons, the court’s decision deserves commendation. It is a judgment that puts Nigerians first and strengthens the principles upon which democratic governance should stand.

The Senate will this week begin consideration of constitutional amendments aimed at paving the way for the establishment of state police, in what lawmakers describe as a decisive step toward addressing the country’s growing security challenges.

Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed on Monday that the National Assembly had resolved to fast-track the proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution and transmit it to the 36 State Houses of Assembly for ratification.

Bamidele, in a statement issued by the Senate Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, said there is now broad consensus among key stakeholders across the federation on the need to create state police as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and improve law enforcement at the sub-national level.

According to him, the proposal enjoys the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, state legislatures and other critical stakeholders involved in the constitutional review process.

“Our position is very clear on state police. We are standing with Nigerians on the issue of state police. All strata of the federation have made it clear that there cannot be a better time to establish state police than now,” Bamidele said.

He explained that the National Assembly had decided to separate the state police proposal from other constitutional amendment bills to accelerate its passage, citing the urgency of the country’s security situation.

“We came to the conclusion that we are going to pass the constitutional amendment in this respect to make provision for state police. If I can tell you as of today, that will come to fruition this very week because there is no need for any further delay,” he stated.

The Senate Leader revealed that extensive consultations had taken place between the National Assembly and key government institutions, including the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President, security agencies and constitutional review committees of both chambers of the legislature.

He specifically referenced a series of meetings involving the Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, Senator Barau Jibrin, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Constitution Review Committee, Benjamin Kalu.

According to Bamidele, once passed by the National Assembly, the proposed amendment will be transmitted to the 36 state legislatures, where it must secure the approval of at least two-thirds of the assemblies before being forwarded to President Tinubu for assent.

“The bill can be on its way to the 36 State Houses of Assembly as soon as possible because we will need two-thirds of the state assemblies to approve it before the President can assent to it,” he said.

Nigeria currently operates a centralised policing structure under Section 214(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which establishes a single national police force known as the Nigeria Police Force.

The push for state police has gained momentum in recent years amid growing concerns over insecurity, with advocates arguing that decentralised policing would improve intelligence gathering, enhance local accountability and strengthen community-based security responses.

Bamidele expressed confidence that the amendment would receive the necessary support from both the states and the Presidency, noting that momentum for the reform had reached an unprecedented level.

His remarks came days after Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed that consultations on the constitutional framework for state police were nearing completion and that President Tinubu would soon receive a comprehensive report on the proposal.

If approved, the amendment would mark one of the most significant constitutional and security reforms since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.

The Economic and Financial Crimes on Monday sought to re-arraign the trio of Aishatu Bappa El-Nafaty, Mamud Alhaji Abubakar and Igba Ityoakura Joseph before Justice Muhammed Zubairu of the Federal Capital Territory, High Court, Jikwoyi, Abuja for fraud.

The first defendant, El-Nafaty is the Director, Public Affairs Department in the Directorate of Special Duties and Parliamentary Security, National Assembly, Abubakar, the second defendant is a former Permanent Secretary in the Services of the National Assembly, while the third defendant, Joseph is a Deputy Director of Procurement in the National Assembly.

They were to be re-arraigned on amended 23-count charge, bordering on conspiracy, forgery, criminal breach of trust, official corruption and illegal conversion of funds belonging to the National Assembly to the tune of N337,062,350.

However, the re-arraignment could not hold, following a preliminary objection, filed by Muhammed Ndayako, SAN, counsel for the second defendant, praying the court to strike out counts three, four five, six, seven and 18 of the amended charge, dated October 8, 2025, for being “incompetent and an attempt to resuscitate already quashed counts, pursuant to a ruling delivered on May 12, 2025, by his lordship, Muhammed Zubairu.”

In his response, prosecution counsel, Francis Usani, regretted that he was served the preliminary objection at short notice, being on Friday, June 5, 2026, whereas the defendant had more than a month period from the last date of adjournment to file the objection, but waited until the eve of the re-arraignment date to file it and serve the prosecution. He added that while he intended to reply to the objection, he would straightaway urge the court to strike it out for being frivolous, incompetent and intended to frustrate the re-arraignment. And for the defendants to proceed and take their plea on the amended charge.

Count one of the charge reads: “That you, Aishatu Bappa El-Nafaty whilst being a Deputy Director and Head, Training and Welfare officer of the National Assembly and now a Director in the Public Affair Department in the Directorate of Special Duties and Parliamentary Security, Mamud Alhaji Abubakar, being a former Permanent Secretary in the services of the National Assembly, (NASS) and Igba Ityoakura Joseph, while being in the office of the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly (NASS) sometime between year 2017 and 2019, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, did conspire amongst yourselves to do an unlawful act, to wit: criminal breach of trust by a public officer and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 97 of the Panel Code, Cap 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990.”

Count three reads: “That you, Aishatu Bappa El-Nafaty whilst being a Deputy Director and Head, Training and Welfare officer of the National Assembly and now Director in the Public Affairs department in the directorate of Special Duties and Parliamentary Security (NASS) sometime between year 2017 and 2019, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja while being entrusted with dominion over the sum of N89,871,225.00( Eighty Nine Million, Eight hundred and seventy one thousand, two hundred and twenty five Naira only) transferred from the National Assembly Management Overhead Account No.000098216 and National Assembly General Services account No.000098223, domiciled in SunTrust Bank Plc to account No. 0000998281, belonging to you, domiciled in SunTrust bank Plc dishonestly misappropriated and converted to your own use the said sum and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 311 of the Panel Code, Cap 532, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990 and Punishable Under section 312 of the same Law.”

Count 10 reads: “That you Aishatu Bappa El-Nafaty whilst being a deputy Director and Head, Training and Welfare of staff of the National Assembly and now a Director in Public Affairs Department in the Directorate, Specials Duties and Parliamentary Security between 2017 and 2018, within the jurisdiction of the Federal Capital territory, Abuja, did with intent to defraud make false receipts: Fazh Integrated Services Ltd (FISL) showing evidence of payment received from you and with different amount/dates, purported to have been issued or emanated from Fazah Integrated Services Ltd, which you know to be false and with intent that it may be acted upon as genuine and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 362 of Panel Code, Cap 532(Laws of the federation of Nigeria) Abuja 1990 and punishable under Section 364 of the same.”

With the first defendant indicating interest to file a similar preliminary objection, the judge directed that she should do so within 48 hours. The judge further held that the prosecution should take a date to respond appropriately to the preliminary objection in the interest of justice and adjourned the matter till September 23, 2026 for hearing on the preliminary objection.

Dele Oyewale

Head, Media and Publicity

June 8, 2026

By Adekunle Williams

The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) has asked members in all its branches and locations across the globe to embark on special prayers as part of its spiritual response to the national challenges facing the country.

NASFAT’s National Public Relations Secretary, Alhaji Shamsideen Oseni, in a statement issued in Lagos on Sunday said the prayer sessions will seek divine intervention, protection, wisdom, and lasting peace for Nigeria and its people.

He noted that through sincere prayers, responsible leadership, effective security measures, and collective action, Nigeria would overcome insecurity and emerge stronger, safer, and more prosperous for future generations.

The official said: “This prayer remains a powerful source of hope, strength, and moral renewal, particularly during difficult times.”

“NASFAT, therefore, encouraged members, stakeholders, and well-meaning Nigerians to participate wholeheartedly in the global prayer exercise as a demonstration of unity, compassion, and national solidarity.

“This initiative reflects NASFAT’s unwavering commitment to promoting peace, harmony, justice, and sustainable development.

“The organisation reaffirms its support for all lawful and constructive measures capable of addressing insecurity and fostering greater understanding among diverse communities.

Oseni condemned the persistent wave of insecurity across Nigeria, describing the recurring attacks on innocent citizens and communities as deeply troubling.

He expressed profound concern over the continuous loss of lives, destruction of livelihoods, and the growing atmosphere of fear.

Oseni emphasised that peace, security, and social stability remained indispensable pillars for national growth, economic advancement, and collective well-being.

Oseni urged government authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions, and citizens to strengthen collaborative efforts.

He added that the collaboration was aimed at protecting lives, preserving property, and restoring confidence among communities across the country.

(NAN)

Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, former senator for Ogun Central and daughter of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, has formally resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the party’s Ogun State leadership of persistent disrespect, unfair treatment, and marginalisation.

Obasanjo, who recently vied for the APC governorship ticket in Ogun State, submitted her resignation in a letter dated May 31 to the state APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.

She criticised the consensus process that produced Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) as the party’s candidate, stating she was neither consulted nor involved despite pledging to abide by any party consensus arrangement.

She further alleged that some of her supporters were denied entry to the venue where Adeola was unveiled and faced intimidation. “Following his emergence, Senator Adeola requested a meeting with my supporters, during which three requests were presented. He promised a response within a week. More than two months later, no feedback has been received,” Obasanjo said. “The treatment I have received reflects a consistent pattern of rejection and disrespect. When disrespect is the only dish served, one should leave the table. I am therefore leaving the APC table where I am not welcomed.”

Despite her resignation, Obasanjo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Ogun APC Chairman Chief Sanusi, and Ogun Central Senatorial leadership for the courtesy extended to her while in the party.

Returning to active politics earlier this year after registering in Ward 11, Ibogun, Ifo LGA, Obasanjo had previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health (20032007) and in the Senate (20072011). Her political re-entry in late 2025, marked by campaign billboards in Abeokuta, had signalled her intention to contest the 2027 governorship before she abruptly exited the APC.

Nigerian-British singer and songwriter, Mark Yinka Orabiyi, popularly known as Talay Riley, has died after he was stabbed in East London.

Riley, 35, was attacked around 9 a.m. on Friday on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown, according to reports by Newham Recorder.

Emergency services were called to the scene, but the Grammy-winning songwriter could not be saved.

Homicide detectives from the Specialist Crime Command have since launched a murder investigation into the incident.

His family confirmed his death in an emotional statement, describing the loss as one of “overwhelming sadness.”

“It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm that Mark ‘Yinka’ Orabiyi, professionally known as Talay Riley, passed away yesterday morning,” the family said.

They described Riley as an accomplished artiste and songwriter whose impact extended beyond music.

“Talay will fondly be remembered by those who knew him publicly for his incredible talent as a Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum selling songwriter and artiste.

“For those that knew and loved him personally, it is his humour, generous spirit and unmistakable presence that will be missed the most,” the statement added.

The family also thanked fans, friends and colleagues for the support they had received since the tragedy.

“We are deeply grateful for the enormous outpouring of love and support that we have received through messages, calls and visits over the past hours.

“Thank you for your continued consideration and sensitivity at what is a devastating time for us all,” the family said.

Riley, who was the brother of music producer Scribz Riley, spent more than a decade contributing to the growth of contemporary RandB.

He entered the music industry at 18 after signing a publishing deal with Global Publishing.

His career gained wider attention after he featured on rapper Chipmunk’s 2009 single, before signing with Jive/Sony Records.

Over the years, Riley toured the United Kingdom and the United States with major acts including Skepta, Usher and Trey Songz.

He also worked with international stars such as Kehlani, H.E.R., Khalid and the rising American group, 2BYG.

Following his death, tributes poured in from friends, fans and industry colleagues.

His younger brother, Scribz Riley, whose real name is Michael Orabiyi Riley, paid a heartbreaking tribute to him on Instagram.

“I never thought the day would come where I’d be writing this, but unfortunately I can confirm that on the morning of Friday 5th June my big brother YINKA, Talay Riley, passed away,” he wrote.

“My heart is shattered. This doesn’t feel real. It feels like a bad dream. Just before he went to sleep, we spoke about the future, staying positive and about everything we still had left to do.

“I never imagined that would be our last conversation. Yinka wasn’t just my brother. He was my mother’s son, a friend to many, a mentor, an inspiration, and a light in so many people’s lives.

“Even with everything you accomplished, this was far too soon. I love you brother. Thank you for everything. Rest in paradise Yinka. Until we meet again,” Scribz added.

Two more suspects have been taken into custody in connection with the alleged abduction and assault of the Chairman of Ikere-West Local Council Development Area, Rufus Olorunfemi, and another victim, Funso Ajayi, the Ekiti State Police Command has said.

The development comes days after the command announced the arrest of three suspects linked to the incident in Ikere-Ekiti.

In a statement issued on Monday in Ado-Ekiti, the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, disclosed that the latest arrests were made by operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit.

According to him, “two suspects, one Daramola Sehinde and Oluyede Dapo, were arrested on the 6th of June, 2026, by the Command Violent Crime Response Unit in addition to the three suspects arrested on June 4th 2026.

“They were arrested over the alleged conspiracy, abduction and assault occasioning harm on Ikere-West LCDA Chairman, Hon. Rufus Olorunfemi and one Funso Ajayi.

“The suspects arrested will be objectively and thoroughly investigated and charged in court, while efforts are underway to arrest other suspects mentioned in connection with the crime.”

The police said the latest arrests bring to five the number of individuals currently being investigated over the incident.

Meanwhile, the command has strongly denied allegations by the Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate, Deji Ogunsakin, who accused the police of targeting opposition members through the Rapid Response Squad ahead of the forthcoming election.

Responding to the claims, Abutu said the command acted strictly within the law and had not carried out any politically motivated arrests.

“The attention of the Ekiti State Police Command has been drawn to the press conference granted by the PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate, Deji Ogunsakin, alleging the command of intimidating, harassing and illegally arresting their members ahead of the forthcoming election through its RRS Unit.

“The Command wishes to state clearly that no illegal arrest was made and no arrest was unjustifiably targeted at any political party member for any political reason as alleged.”

The police spokesperson maintained that those arrested were being investigated solely over allegations relating to conspiracy, abduction and assault connected to the attack on the council chairman.

Reaffirming the command’s commitment to impartial law enforcement, Abutu said officers would continue to carry out their constitutional duties without fear or favour.

He stated that the command ” will never be intimidated or deterred through propaganda, emotional outbursts or usual political gimmicks from performing its statutory responsibilities of maintaining law and order irrespective of the citizens’ individual political, religious or cultural affiliations”.

Abutu also conveyed the position of the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, who urged residents to remain peaceful, reject misinformation and stay alert to security concerns.

According to him, Falade insisted that the command under his leadership would not engage in unlawful arrests, illegal detention or any form of intimidation against members of the public.

The Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered a commanding second-half performance to defeat the Teranga Lionesses of Senegal 3-0 in the second of their two international friendly games at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne on Monday.

After a tense and scoreless first half, the Falcons found their rhythm to secure a convincing win in front of their home supporters.

The match kicked off with immediate intensity as Nigeria earned an early set-piece taken by Captain Rasheedat Ajibade in the first minute, but the opportunity was not converted. The Super Falcons continued to press, with forward Joy Omewa narrowly missing another opportunity moments later.

Despite sustained dominance, the deadlock remained unbroken through the opening stages. In the 13th minute, another opportunity went begging as an effort was dragged wide with the goal at the Falcons’ mercy. Gift Monday proved a constant threat, repeatedly troubling the Senegalese defence while the home crowd urged the team on.

Omewa came agonizingly close in the 15th minute when she rounded the goalkeeper, only to see her effort strike the woodwork as the first half remained locked at 0-0.

The breakthrough finally arrived three minutes into the second half. In the 48th minute, Shukurat Oladipo delivered a precise cross that Joy Omewa met with a decisive header to give Nigeria the lead their endeavour deserved. Buoyed by the opener, the Super Falcons grew in confidence and control. Omewa doubled the advantage in the 55th minute, muscling her way through the Teranga Lionesses’ backline before finishing with composure for her second of the match.

The Falcons’ dominance was further underlined in the 66th minute when Captain Rasheedat Ajibade went on a surging run and laid on an assist for substitute Asisat Oshoala, who had replaced Omewa, to slot home and make it 3-0. The result caps a strong showing for the Super Falcons, who converted their second-half superiority into goals while maintaining defensive solidity throughout.

The performance highlighted the team’s attacking depth and resilience, providing positive momentum as the Cup-holders continued their preparations for the upcoming Women Africa Cup of Nations finals to be staged in Morocco