Nigeria News (Standard)
Edo State Shuts Three Akoko-Edo Schools Over Suspected Kidnap Plot, DSS Alerts Security Agencies
Government orders immediate suspension of academic activities as DSS warns of planned student abduction in Edo North
Government orders immediate suspension of academic activities as DSS warns of planned student abduction in Edo North
Edo State Government has ordered the closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area on Tuesday, following intelligence reports of a suspected kidnap plot targeting students. The decision was announced after security agencies received credible information about plans to abduct schoolchildren within Edo North Senatorial District.
According to officials, Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School have been directed to suspend all academic activities until further notice. The move is a preventive measure while security operatives conduct risk assessments and intensify surveillance in the affected communities.
The action comes at a time when concerns over the safety of students are rising nationwide, especially after recent attacks on educational institutions in Oyo State that led to the abduction of dozens of pupils and teachers. Kidnapping for ransom remains a major security challenge across Nigeria, with parents and stakeholders demanding stronger protection for vulnerable schools.
The Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier issued an alert, warning that suspected bandits were planning mass abductions in Edo North. DSS operatives reportedly arrested one Emmanuel Momidu on 4 June while he was allegedly conducting surveillance around a secondary school in Akoko-Edo. In response, the DSS advised state authorities and security stakeholders to strengthen protection measures around schools and other sensitive locations.
Commissioner for Education said the temporary closures are intended to safeguard lives while investigations continue and additional security protocols are put in place. “We urge parents and community members to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activity,” the commissioner stated during a press briefing in Benin City. Security agencies have increased patrols across high-risk areas as part of efforts to deter attacks.
The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on the development. Meanwhile, government has assured that normal academic activities will resume once the security situation is reviewed and adequate guarantees are in place.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta Lawmakers Demand INEC Implements Supreme Court Order on Warri Federal Constituency Delineation
Call for action comes after Supreme Court judgement; community leaders urge prompt compliance to restore representation
Call for action comes after Supreme Court judgement; community leaders urge prompt compliance to restore representation
Lawmakers from Delta State have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately implement the Supreme Court’s directive on the delineation of Warri Federal Constituency. The demand was made public on Thursday, 11 June, following a recent court judgement mandating INEC to adjust boundaries in line with constitutional provisions.
The lawmakers, representing various constituencies within Delta State, issued an open letter urging INEC to comply without delay, emphasising the importance of fair and accurate representation for communities in Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West LGAs. The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that current constituency boundaries fail to reflect demographic realities and ordered INEC to undertake fresh delineation exercises.
This development is significant as many residents and community stakeholders have complained of political marginalisation due to outdated electoral boundaries. The call for implementation follows years of agitation by local leaders who insist that proper delineation is necessary for equitable distribution of federal resources and effective participation in national decision-making.
In their statement, the lawmakers stressed that “full compliance with the Supreme Court ruling is crucial for sustaining public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.” Community leaders from Itsekiri and Ijaw ethnic groups echoed this position, saying that delayed action would only deepen existing grievances. However, as at press time, INEC had not issued an official response regarding its timeline for acting on the judgement.
Stakeholders have warned that failure to implement the court order before the next general elections could result in legal challenges and possible disenfranchisement of affected voters. Civil society groups in Delta State are now monitoring developments closely and have pledged to organise sensitisation campaigns across impacted communities.
Nigeria News (Standard)
House of Representatives Releases Final Constitution Amendment Bills, Schedules Key Vote on State Police
Lawmakers to decide fate of state police proposal as National Assembly moves towards major constitutional changes
Lawmakers to decide fate of state police proposal as National Assembly moves towards major constitutional changes
The House of Representatives on Thursday in Abuja released the final draft of constitution amendment bills, paving the way for a crucial vote on the contentious issue of state police. The proposed amendments, which have been under consideration for months, are set to be debated and voted on by lawmakers in the coming days.
The process began with the presentation of the final draft to members during plenary at the National Assembly complex. Lawmakers received copies of the documents outlining various constitutional changes, including the establishment of state police, devolution of powers to states, and other governance reforms. The Speaker of the House urged members to review the amendments ahead of the scheduled vote, stressing their importance for Nigeria’s future governance structure.
The push for state police has gained significant attention amid growing insecurity across different regions and calls from state governments and civil society for decentralised policing. Proponents argue that allowing states to operate their own police forces will strengthen security and improve response to local challenges. However, some lawmakers remain cautious about potential risks such as abuse by state authorities and funding concerns.
Debate is expected to be intense when voting begins, with both ruling party (APC) and opposition (PDP, LP) members set to present arguments for and against key provisions. Stakeholders from across Nigeria have submitted memoranda during public hearings earlier in the year. The outcome will determine whether these amendments progress to state assemblies for ratification—a process that requires approval by at least 24 states before any change can become law.
If passed, this round of constitutional amendments could mark one of the most significant shifts in Nigeria’s federal structure since 1999. Analysts say the decision on state police will be closely watched by security experts and political leaders nationwide.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Creators Drive Surge in Online Cooking Content as Power Oil Launches MasterChef Challenge
Brand initiative taps into booming food content scene, offering home cooks across Nigeria a shot at national recognition
Brand initiative taps into booming food content scene, offering home cooks across Nigeria a shot at national recognition
A growing number of Lagos-based creators and home cooks are transforming their passion for cooking into digital content, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube enabling wider audiences to engage with Nigerian cuisine. The trend, which has accelerated in recent years, was highlighted on Tuesday, 11 June, as Power Oil launched its Certified MasterChef Challenge to further encourage the wave of culinary creativity.
Previously, sharing food online was limited to personal photos and casual updates. Now, detailed recipe tutorials, meal-prep demonstrations and innovative spins on classic dishes are attracting substantial followings. Many creators are using their kitchens as makeshift studios to produce content ranging from party Jollof rice recreations to affordable cooking hacks. According to industry observers, the accessibility of social media has turned what was once a hobby into new opportunities for visibility and income.
Power Oil’s latest initiative aims to capitalise on this momentum by inviting aspiring food creators nationwide to participate in the MasterChef Nigeria competition. As headline sponsor for the inaugural season, Power Oil is extending the contest beyond television by encouraging home cooks to submit original cooking videos online for a chance to reach the grand finale. The company says this approach celebrates not only culinary skill but also creativity and self-expression in Nigeria’s food community.
Roland Akpe, Marketing Manager for Oil & Fats Portfolio at Tolaram, said the campaign was inspired by Nigerians’ increasing use of food as a medium for building communities online. “We’re seeing more Nigerians express themselves through food, whether that’s sharing recipes online or experimenting with new ideas in the kitchen. Through the Power Oil-Certified MasterChef Challenge, we’re creating a platform where talented home cooks can showcase their skills and gain visibility,” Akpe stated in a press briefing.
Industry analysts say such competitions provide valuable exposure for emerging talent who may otherwise struggle to stand out in an increasingly crowded digital space. Participants can upload their entries via masterchef.poweroil.com.ng and rally support through public votes. With Nigeria’s online creator economy expanding rapidly, stakeholders expect similar initiatives will further boost local entrepreneurship and strengthen cultural pride in indigenous cuisine.
Delta Lawmakers Demand INEC Implements Supreme Court Order on Warri Federal Constituency Delineation
House of Representatives Releases Final Constitution Amendment Bills, Schedules Key Vote on State Police
Lagos Creators Drive Surge in Online Cooking Content as Power Oil Launches MasterChef Challenge
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