Category: PM News

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.

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has alleged that some opposition elements, particularly in the North-West, were spreading false narratives and exaggerating security challenges to undermine President Bola Tinubu administration’s achievements.

However, Matawalle said no amount of propaganda, misinformation or politically motivated attacks by opposition elements would distract President Tinubu from delivering on his mandate to Nigerians.

According to him, President Tinubu remains politically strong in the North-West and is well-positioned for victory in the 2027 presidential election.

Matawalle said this in a statement by Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil in Kaduna on Thursday.

The Minister said some critics are uncomfortable with the progress being recorded in the fight against insecurity and ongoing development efforts across the country.

The minister said rather than acknowledge the sacrifices of security personnel and gains made in combating insecurity, such groups were focusing on isolated incidents to create fear and political tension.

Matawalle commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their commitment and sacrifices in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

He noted that many security personnel had paid the supreme price while serving the nation.

The minister said the Tinubu administration had adopted a coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to addressing insecurity, especially in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Kebbi states.

He said the strategy had led to the neutralisation of several notorious bandit leaders and the destruction of criminal hideouts.

According to him, military operations have restored relative peace in many communities previously affected by insecurity.

Matawalle said the improved security situation had enabled residents in some areas to return to farming and other economic activities.

He also highlighted progress in the fight against insurgency in the North-East and efforts to curb communal and criminal violence in parts of the North-Central region.

The minister said the Renewed Hope Agenda was delivering positive results in critical sectors of the economy.

He listed security, infrastructure, agriculture, social investment and economic reforms among areas where Nigerians were beginning to witness the impact of government policies.

Matawalle said several Federal Government initiatives had directly benefited Northern Nigeria through road rehabilitation, agricultural support and food security interventions.

He added that investments in rail and energy infrastructure, as well as programmes targeting youth and women empowerment, were yielding positive outcomes.

The minister said government efforts to strengthen security architecture, improve education, support local industries and expand economic opportunities were receiving encouraging responses from citizens.

He expressed confidence that the administration’s achievements would continue to resonate with Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to him, citizens are witnessing ongoing efforts aimed at improving security, livelihoods and overall well-being across the country.

Matawalle said President Tinubu remained focused on governance, national development and the welfare of all Nigerians.

He expressed optimism that the Renewed Hope Agenda would further strengthen public support for the administration.

The minister urged political actors to place national interest above partisan considerations and support ongoing efforts to consolidate peace, security and development nationwide.

The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr. Fatai Tijani, has warned content creators, bloggers, and social media users against spreading false, misleading security-related information.

?Tijani gave the warning on Thursday during a strategic security meeting with senior officers of the command at the Officers’ Mess, Ikeja.

?He expressed concern over unverified security reports and misleading videos on social media, noting that such content caused panic among residents.

?According to him, false information creates unnecessary fear, undermines confidence in security agencies, and disrupts public order.

?The commissioner urged content creators to verify information before publishing or sharing it online. He stressed that freedom of expression must not be used to spread content capable of inciting fear, panic, or tension.

?Tijani warned that anyone deliberately disseminating false information threatening public peace would be investigated and prosecuted.

?He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order and protecting lives and property across the state. The commissioner assured residents that adequate measures were in place, adding that officers were on alert for swift responses.

?He urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible, timely information for effective policing.

?Tijani appreciated members of the public assisting the police with useful information, encouraging them to sustain the cooperation.

?According to him, the command will continually review operational strategies to ensure Lagos remains safe for residents and businesses.

?He directed senior officers to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen community policing, and deepen inter-agency collaboration.

?The commissioner also warned against using covered number plates, adding that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted.

?He emphasised stronger collaboration with other security agencies, especially in border communities, to prevent criminal infiltration.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has announced the appointment of new principal officers for the minority caucus.

During Thursday’s plenary, Abbas named Frederick Agbedi, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing Ekeremo/Sagbama federal constituency in Bayelsa, as the Minority Leader. Agbedi is aligned with the PDP faction loyal to Kabiru Turaki.

Abbas also appointed Abdussamad Dasuki of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), representing Kebbe/Tambuwal federal constituency in Sokoto, as Deputy Minority Leader.

Mansur Manu Soro of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), representing Darazo/Ganjuwa federal constituency in Bauchi, was named Minority Whip.

The Speaker noted that the appointments followed **unanimous nominations by the minority caucus** and assured that the House leadership would work closely with the newly appointed officers to achieve the legislative objectives of the green chamber.

More updates on the activities of the new principal officers are expected in the coming days.