Category: PM News

Two commanders of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, including a suspected specialist in Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices, VBIEDs, have surrendered to troops of Operation HADIN KAI in Yobe State.

The Nigerian Army disclosed this in an operational report made available to the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on Thursday in Abuja.

According to the report, the suspects, identified as Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar, surrendered to troops of 159 Battalion in Geidam on June 8.

The Army said Ismail Mohammed was one of the commanders under a terrorist leader known as Baa Shuwa and had detailed knowledge of ISWAP operations.

Abu Umar was described as an ISWAP engineer and specialist in vehicle-borne explosive devices.

The report said Abu Umar was believed to have knowledge of locations where such explosives were produced and stored in ISWAP camps.

Both suspects are currently in military custody for further investigation.

The Army also disclosed that troops arrested two suspected terrorist informants in separate operations in Borno State.

It said combined troops of 19 Battalion, 25 Brigade Garrison and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force arrested one of the suspects in Damboa town on June 9.

The suspect was reportedly arrested while buying farm items and mosquito nets allegedly meant for terrorists operating within Damboa Local Government Area.

According to the report, the suspect confessed during preliminary investigation to supplying logistics and providing information to terrorist elements.

He is currently in the custody of Headquarters 25 Brigade for further investigation.

In a separate operation, troops of 162 Amphibious Battalion arrested another suspected terrorist informant at about 7:00 p.m. on the same day.

The Army said the suspect remained in military custody pending further action.

The report added that troops also foiled an attempted terrorist attack on a military location after sighting suspected terrorists approaching the area on June 9.

Troops responded with fire missions to neutralise the terrorists and deny them freedom of action within the area of operation.

A follow-up operation conducted on June 10 led to the discovery of the corpses of two terrorists and a motorcycle.

The Army said preliminary assessment showed that the bodies were already decomposing, suggesting that the terrorists had been neutralised during an earlier encounter with troops in Buni Yadi.

No additional items were recovered during the search of the area.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have agreed to work more closely to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.

Their partnership will focus on fighting vote-buying, electoral fraud, and other financial crimes that can affect the integrity of elections.

The renewed collaboration comes as preparations begin for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections.

Both agencies identified vote-buying and the illegal use of money during elections as major threats to public trust in the electoral process.

The EFCC announced the development on its official X page after the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Obo Effanga, paid a courtesy visit to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the commission.

Effanga, who was recently posted to Edo State, said the visit was part of efforts to engage important stakeholders, especially law enforcement agencies, ahead of the 2027 elections.

He explained that the visit was also aimed at exploring ways for INEC and the EFCC to strengthen cooperation in tackling electoral offences such as vote-buying and financial inducement during elections.

The REC praised the EFCC for its role in previous elections, particularly its efforts to curb vote-buying and other financial crimes that could undermine the electoral process.

In a separate development, officials of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Edo State Branch, also visited the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC to discuss possible areas of cooperation.

Speaking during the visit, Ibukun Akande said the institute values partnership with the EFCC because many economic and financial crimes involve financial institutions and banking professionals.

Responding, the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Directorate, Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, reaffirmed the EFCC’s commitment to supporting INEC in preventing vote-buying and other electoral offences before, during, and after elections.

He also assured the CIBN of the commission’s readiness to work with relevant stakeholders in the fight against corruption, financial crimes, and misconduct across the country.

Sa’ad added that continued cooperation among regulatory agencies, professional bodies, and law enforcement institutions is essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic and financial systems.

South Africa will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico today, but Bafana Bafana almost missed the tournament entirely after a costly administrative error nearly wrecked their qualification dream.

The South Africans are returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, when they hosted the tournament, but their 16-year wait nearly ended in embarrassment before the competition even kicked off.

The drama started during the African qualifiers in March 2025, when coach Hugo Broos fielded Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena in a 2-0 win over Lesotho.

Mokoena, however, was not eligible to play in the match, having been suspended after picking up two yellow cards.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee later punished South Africa by overturning the result and awarding Lesotho a 3-0 victory.

Mokoena was issued a warning, while the South African Football Association was fined £9,340.

But the fine was not the real danger. The bigger threat was that the blunder almost cost South Africa their automatic World Cup ticket.

Before the FIFA ruling, Bafana Bafana were sitting comfortably at the top of their group, three points ahead of Benin and a further three clear of Nigeria.

But the forfeited result suddenly changed the entire qualification picture and left Broos’ men sweating going into the final round of matches.

South Africa needed to beat Rwanda and also needed Benin to drop points to avoid being dragged into the dangerous playoff route involving other second-placed African teams.

For a country that had waited since 2010 to return to the World Cup, one team-sheet error had turned a smooth qualification campaign into a last-day scare.

In the end, South Africa survived.

Bafana Bafana defeated Rwanda 3-0, while Nigeria thrashed Benin 4-0, allowing South Africa to finally seal their return to football’s biggest tournament.

South Africa will now open their campaign against hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, where about 85,000 supporters are expected.

They will also face Czech Republic and South Korea in Group A as they seek to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time, after three previous group-stage exits.

For Broos, 74, the tournament carries extra emotion, as he has confirmed that the 2026 World Cup will mark the end of his 40-year coaching career.

‘No one in Hollywood could have scripted it better,’ Broos said ahead of the opener.

‘I am dreaming of a beautiful ending where South Africa reach the knockout phase of a World Cup for the first time after three first-round exits. Three points will take us through.

‘When South Africa bow out of this tournament, I will say goodbye to football. I turned 74 years old this year and the time has come to be with my wife, two daughters, son and eight grandchildren.’

South Africa may have made it to the World Cup, but their journey to the tournament came dangerously close to disaster.

One suspended player, one administrative error and one FIFA punishment almost turned Bafana Bafana’s long-awaited return into another painful absence.

The Nigerian Air Force has carried out a coordinated aerial assault in the Lake Chad Basin, killing several terrorists in a targeted operation around Metele in the Northern Tumbuns area.

According to a statement released in Abuja on Thursday by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the mission was executed in the early hours of Wednesday following intelligence-driven surveillance.

Officials explained that the strike was informed by credible intelligence, followed by Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions that confirmed the presence of a senior terrorist commander, active hideouts and increased movement of insurgents in the area.

Acting on this confirmation, air assets were deployed to engage the identified targets with precision. Military sources said the operation was carefully coordinated to maximise impact on verified hostile positions.

Describing the engagement, the statement noted:

‘Upon arrival, aircrew observed significant terrorists movement around the concealed structures, confirming the presence of hostile elements.

‘Following positive target identification, the aircraft executed devastating strikes on the designated locations.

‘Post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the destruction of the terrorists enclave and the neutralisation of scores of terrorists.’

Following the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, praised the personnel involved and reaffirmed the Air Force’s resolve to maintain sustained pressure on terrorist networks across the country.

He stated: ‘We will continue to leverage our air power capabilities to locate, strike, and destroy terrorists targets wherever they are found.

‘The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring they have no safe haven within our sovereign territory,’ the CAS said.

The Federal Government on Thursday declared Friday, June 12, public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 27 years on unbroken democratic rule.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the federal government, according to a statement issued in Abuja.

In the statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the preservation of democratic ideals, rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance.

He assured that the ministry in collaboration with relevant security agencies would continue to take appropriate measures in maintaining and strengthening Nigeria’s internal security.

The minister noted that a secured and stable environment was essential to democracy and national development.

He urged Nigerians to see the Democracy Day holiday as an opportunity for civic reflection.

‘As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding, uphold the institutions that sustain our democracy, and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,’ he said.

He also said that June 12 every year remained a significant day in Nigeria’s history in honour of the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Nigerians whose efforts made democratic governance possible.

‘Their legacies continue to inform the values and responsibilities of the Nigerian state,’ Tunji-Ojo added.

The Senate on Thursday said Sen. Adams Oshiomhole’s description of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as ‘a bunch of criminals and thieves’ did not represent its official position, findings, resolutions or opinions.

The Senate said this in a resolution passed sequel to a motion sponsored by Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, during plenary on the issue.

Oshiomhole had on Wednesday at a meeting of the Senate Public Account Committee with NNPCL, described the company as ‘a bunch of criminals and thieves’.

The committee, chaired by Sen. Ibrahim Dankwambo, had ordered the arrest of a former Group Managing Director of NNPC, Mele Kyari, for refusing to appear before it over unaccounted N210 trillion from 2017 to 2023.

Presenting the motion, Bamidele argued that while Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution grant investigative and oversight powers to the National Assembly, the authority to issue warrants compelling the attendance of witnesses is vested in the presiding officer of the legislative chamber.

According to him, Sections 4, 5 and 6 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act confer the power to issue warrants exclusively on the Senate President in matters relating to Senate proceedings and committees.

Bamidele warned that any attempt by a senate committee to independently issue or execute a warrant of arrest without authorisation from the senate president could amount to an unlawful exercise of power.

‘The power to issue a warrant affecting the liberty of a citizen is an extraordinary statutory power which must be exercised strictly in accordance with the procedure prescribed by law,’ he stated.

The senate leader further maintained that legislative investigations were not substitutes for criminal prosecution and that neither individuals nor institutions should be presumed guilty before the conclusion of investigations or judicial determination.

‘The constitutional doctrine of fair hearing and the presumption of innocence require that no person or institution be adjudged guilty except by a court of competent jurisdiction after due process of law,’ he said.

Bamidele argued that describing NNPCL as ‘a bunch of criminals and thieves’ was capable of conveying a conclusion of criminal culpability before the completion of any lawful investigation.

He warned that such statements could be interpreted by the public as the official position of the senate and undermine confidence in the impartiality of ongoing oversight proceedings.

Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, backed the motion, describing it as part of the constitutional responsibilities of the senate leader.

Barau stressed that committees were subordinate organs of the senate and could only make recommendations rather than independently exercising powers reserved for the chamber.

‘The committee overstepped its bounds, and he (Senate Leader) has done the right thing by drawing attention to it,’ Barau said.

Also, the Senate Chief Whip, Mohammed Monguno, described the motion as a necessary intervention to preserve the credibility of the legislature.

According to him, it will be contradictory for lawmakers to make laws for national governance while simultaneously violating those same laws.

‘The senate, being the highest law-making body of the country, should not only be above board but should be seen manifestly to be above board,’ he added

Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Abba Moro, equally emphasised the importance of maintaining decorum and avoiding statements capable of damaging reputations.

‘We should not make statements that seek to impugn the characters of public officers or individuals in the society,’ Moro said.

However, while defending himself, Oshiomhole stated that his remarks were made in reaction to what he described as provocative conducts by officials appearing before the Public Accounts Committee.

He said that the committee was investigating audit reports indicating that NNPCL had not properly accounted for approximately ?210 trillion, findings he said originated from auditors appointed by the company itself.

‘I acted under provocation because distinguished senators were being attacked unjustly,’ he explained.

Oshiomhole insisted that he was defending the integrity of the senate and denied any intention to embarrass the institution.

In his remarks, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said: ‘I must say that sometimes provocation can lead to unfortunate situations.

‘If you understand the role of the NNPCL in our economy, you will appreciate how damaging such an impression could be.

‘The corporation enters into important bilateral agreements on behalf of Nigeria and remains critical to the country’s economic interests.

‘If the Nigerian senate is perceived as criminalising the institution, it could undermine confidence in Nigeria and affect international business relationships,’ Akpabio said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has restored some suppressed constituencies in Benue, Delta, Jigawa and Kogi states.

The commission has also fixed between June 16 and June 25 for political parties to conduct primary elections for the restored constituencies, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The commission’s National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

Haruna said that restoration of the constituencies was pursuant to the court judgments ordering the restoration of some suppressed constituencies in the affected states.

He listed the state constituencies to include: Benue – Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East) and Gboko III, all in Benue.

Others are Aniocha North II, Ika North East II, Sapele II, Ethiope West II, Warri South West II and Warri North II state constituencies of Delta, with Aujara constituency in Jigawa.

The commission also listed Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town and District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igala Ogwa, and Ogugu state constituencies in Kogi.

Haruna said that INEC had fixed June 16 to June 25 for the conduct of political party primaries in the restored constituencies.

This, he said, was to facilitate the participation of the restored constituencies in the 2027 general elections, particularly with respect to the nomination of candidates by political parties.

‘For the avoidance of doubt, all other timelines and activities contained in the already published revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections shall apply to the restored constituencies.

‘In light of the peculiar nature of this arrangement, political parties are requested to submit notices of political party primaries to the commission prior to the scheduled date for the primaries,’ he said.

The INEC national commissioner also reiterated the commission’s commitment to ensuring credible, inclusive and transparent electoral processes in the country.

The Senatorial Candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended warm birthday wishes to the Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Oyo State, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, describing him as ‘a dependable grassroots mobiliser and a pillar of local governance in Oyo State.’

In a congratulatory message issued on Tuesday, Ajadi joined family members, political associates, and well-wishers in celebrating Sanda on the occasion of his birthday, commending his leadership style, administrative experience, and commitment to community development.

Ajadi, who recently appointed Sanda as the Director General of his senatorial campaign organisation, said the celebrant has consistently demonstrated uncommon dedication to public service and grassroots political organisation, which continue to distinguish him among local government administrators in the state.

‘On behalf of myself, my campaign organisation, and the good people of Oyo Central Senatorial District, I heartily celebrate Hon. Sikiru Sanda on the occasion of his birthday,’ Ajadi said. ‘He is a tested and trusted grassroots politician whose contributions to local government administration and political mobilisation remain commendable.’

The APM senatorial candidate further described Sanda’s political journey as one marked by consistency, loyalty, and service to the people, noting that his emergence as ALGON Chairman in Oyo State reflects the confidence reposed in him by his colleagues and stakeholders across local governments.

According to Ajadi, Sanda’s leadership qualities have continued to play a strategic role in strengthening governance structures at the grassroots level, adding that such attributes are critical to the development of democratic institutions in Nigeria.

‘Hon. Sikiru Sanda represents the kind of leadership that prioritises the people. His ability to coordinate local government administration and bring stakeholders together for development is worthy of celebration,’ he added.

Ajadi also expressed optimism that Sanda’s experience as a local government chairman and ALGON leader would further enhance his role as Director General of the campaign organisation, especially in mobilising support across the 11 local government areas of Oyo Central Senatorial District.

He prayed for continued wisdom, good health, and greater achievements for the celebrant, urging him to remain steadfast in his service to humanity and commitment to grassroots development.

‘As you mark another year today, I pray that Almighty God continues to strengthen you, grant you sound health, and bless your efforts in public service. May your leadership journey continue to bring progress to our people,’ Ajadi said.

Political associates and stakeholders across Oyo State are also expected to join in celebrating Hon. Sikiru Sanda, whose political influence and administrative role within the local government system have remained significant in recent years.

The birthday celebration comes at a time when political activities are gradually intensifying within Oyo Central Senatorial District, with key stakeholders aligning ahead of future electoral engagements.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended football’s governing body against criticism over ticket prices and visa-related challenges as the 2026 World Cup gets underway.

Speaking in Mexico City on the eve of the tournament’s opening match, Infantino insisted FIFA was doing everything within its powers to address concerns raised by supporters, officials and media representatives, while stressing that immigration decisions ultimately rest with national governments.

The issue has drawn increased attention following the case of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa. US authorities said the decision was linked to alleged connections with suspected terrorist elements, a claim that sparked debate about access and participation at the tournament.

Infantino described the situation as unfortunate but maintained that FIFA cannot overrule border control agencies or government authorities. He said the organisation continues to work behind the scenes to resolve outstanding cases where possible.

The FIFA chief also rejected suggestions that visa controversies had undermined confidence in the United States as a host nation. He argued that logistical and administrative challenges were inevitable for an event of such scale and noted that issues had emerged across all three co-host countries, namely the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Ticket pricing has emerged as another source of criticism in the build-up to the tournament, with some fans arguing that the cost of attending matches is beyond the reach of many supporters. Infantino defended FIFA’s pricing structure, citing overwhelming demand for tickets and insisting that revenues generated from the competition are reinvested in football development programmes around the world.

According to FIFA, more than six million tickets have been sold for the expanded 48-team competition, with demand far exceeding available supply. Infantino argued that significantly lower prices would have encouraged ticket resales at inflated rates on secondary markets.

Dr. Bala Wunti, a prominent oil and gas executive and public servant, has been praised as a selfless and successful leader following a heartfelt tribute from members of the Wunti community, who described him as a man driven by service, integrity, and accountability rather than personal ambition.

The commendation came in an op-ed written by Aminu Bauchin Bauchi, titled ‘A Sacred Trust: Dr. Bala Wunti’s Pledge to the Wunti Community,’ which highlighted Wunti’s response to growing calls for him to contest the Bauchi State governorship.

According to the article, Wunti told members of his community that he had never set out to pursue political power, stressing that God had already blessed him with success and fulfilled his aspirations in life.

‘I didn’t intend to become governor. The Almighty God has blessed me with everything, all the essentials of life you can name.

Alhamdulillah, I have them,’ he was quoted as saying.

The article portrayed Wunti as a leader whose sense of duty to his people, rather than personal ambition, is driving calls for greater public service.

Responding to appeals from community leaders, family members, and supporters, Wunti reportedly acknowledged the weight of their trust, describing leadership as a serious responsibility that directly affects the welfare, security, and future of millions of citizens.

In what many attendees reportedly considered the defining moment of his remarks, Wunti made a strong commitment to transparency and accountability in public office.

‘Whoever thinks that if I become governor I will steal the treasury to enrich them should think again. I will not do that. I will not let myself be used to ruin my connection with my God,’ he declared.

The statement drew praise from supporters who view him as a public officer whose professional achievements and personal values have distinguished him throughout his career.

The op-ed further noted that despite rising political interest in his potential candidacy, Wunti remains grounded in gratitude and faith, attributing his success to divine providence rather than personal accomplishment.

Describing his life journey from orphanhood to national prominence, the author argued that Wunti’s story embodies resilience, discipline, and dedication to service.

The piece concluded with prayers for divine guidance and protection for Wunti, while expressing hope that Bauchi State would continue to produce leaders characterized by sincerity, compassion, integrity, and the fear of God.

Observers say the tribute reflects the growing perception of Bala Wunti as a successful public officer whose reputation has been built not only on professional accomplishments but also on a commitment to ethical leadership and public trust.