Nigeria News (Standard)
House of Representatives Approves Bill for State Police Amid Security Concerns Nationwide
Lawmakers in Abuja pass legislation on June 11, sparking debate over state policing and Nigeria’s federal structure
Lawmakers in Abuja pass legislation on June 11, sparking debate over state policing and Nigeria’s federal structure
The House of Representatives on Thursday, 11 June, passed a bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to tackling insecurity. The legislation, considered during plenary in Abuja, aims to devolve policing powers from the federal government to individual states for improved security management.
The bill was passed after extensive debate among lawmakers who highlighted rising insecurity in several regions and argued that centralised policing has struggled to contain kidnappings, banditry, and communal violence. While supporters said state police would enable faster response to local threats, some members expressed concerns about possible abuse by state governments and the risk of politicising security agencies.
State policing has long been a contentious topic in Nigeria’s political discourse. Proponents argue that decentralising the police will bring security closer to communities and foster accountability. Critics warn it could lead to fragmentation or misuse by powerful governors, especially given Nigeria’s history of politically motivated law enforcement.
As at press time, the bill awaits further consideration by the Senate before it can be forwarded for presidential assent. While no official statement was issued immediately after the vote, opposition lawmakers have called for clear guidelines to prevent human rights violations and ensure checks on state governors’ powers if the measure becomes law.
If signed into law, the new arrangement would mark a major constitutional change with far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s federal system and ongoing efforts to address widespread insecurity.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Federal Government Declares Friday Public Holiday for Democracy Day Celebration
Move aims to mark annual Democracy Day on June 12; civil service and schools nationwide to observe work-free day
Move aims to mark annual Democracy Day on June 12; civil service and schools nationwide to observe work-free day
The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, a public holiday across Nigeria to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day. The announcement means all government offices, schools, and many private sector establishments nationwide will observe a work-free day in honour of the occasion.
The declaration was made on Thursday in Abuja by the relevant federal authorities, following established tradition of marking Democracy Day every June 12. The day is set aside annually to celebrate the country’s return to civilian rule and the restoration of democratic governance in 1999.
Democracy Day holds significant historical importance for many Nigerians, as it marks the anniversary of the country’s transition from military to civilian leadership. Over the years, it has become a symbol of national unity and an opportunity for both government and citizens to reflect on the progress and challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy.
Although no new statement from opposition parties was available as at press time, previous years have seen various political groups use the occasion to call for deeper reforms and improved governance. In recent times, civil society organisations have also marked Democracy Day with rallies and public discussions highlighting issues around electoral transparency and good governance.
Government has urged Nigerians to use the public holiday as an opportunity to participate in events commemorating Democracy Day, either by joining official ceremonies or engaging in civic activities. Normal work is expected to resume nationwide after Friday.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ex-NNPCL Boss Kyari Challenges Senate Arrest Warrant Over Absence at Abuja Hearing
Former GMD says he notified lawmakers of overseas medical treatment, pledges to appear before Senate panel once back in Nigeria
Former GMD says he notified lawmakers of overseas medical treatment, pledges to appear before Senate panel once back in Nigeria
Former Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has expressed dismay over the Senate Committee on Public Accounts’ decision to issue a warrant for his arrest in Abuja on Tuesday, 11 June 2026. The former NNPCL boss said his absence from the committee’s hearing was due to ongoing medical treatment abroad, and that he had formally communicated this to lawmakers.
Kyari, in a letter dated 10 June 2026, stated that he wrote to the committee on 8 May and that his correspondence was acknowledged on 11 May. According to him, the letter explained he was out of the country for health reasons and unable to attend the hearing in person. He also maintained that he had offered to answer any questions from the committee in writing so as not to delay their work.
The Senate panel’s move follows its investigation into NNPCL’s accounts during Kyari’s tenure. The probe comes at a time when transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector are under renewed scrutiny, especially given recent debates over alleged mismanagement and revenue shortfalls affecting government finances.
“I am deeply shocked by the issuance of the warrant, especially as I had earlier communicated with your committee via a letter dated and received on 11th May, 2026,” Kyari wrote. He added: “I wish to reiterate that I remain very willing and ready to honour the invitation of the Committee and to appear before it once I return to the country and at the convenience of the committee.” Kyari also noted he had not seen any formal invitation prior to learning of the summons but affirmed his willingness to cooperate fully with lawmakers.
The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has not issued an official response regarding Kyari’s explanation or indicated if it will suspend enforcement of the arrest warrant. The matter is expected to remain in focus as Nigerians demand greater accountability from public officials overseeing critical sectors like oil and gas.
Source: https://punchng.com/im-deeply-shocked-ex-nnpcl-boss-kyari-faults-senate-arrest-warrant/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Osun Governor Adeleke Escapes Injury as Podium Collapses During Ijebu-Jesa Rally
State officials say event continued after brief scare; incident highlights concerns over crowd management at political gatherings
State officials say event continued after brief scare; incident highlights concerns over crowd management at political gatherings
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State narrowly avoided injury on Wednesday when a podium collapsed during a political rally in Ijebu-Jesa, Obokun Local Government Area. The incident occurred as the governor, his deputy, and other top officials were present for the inauguration of Imole canvassers for the Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency. No casualties were reported, and the event later resumed.
Eyewitnesses said the collapse happened shortly after musical performances ended, just as the anchor was set to introduce the next item on the programme. Video footage widely circulated online showed dignitaries seated on the platform when it suddenly gave way, prompting security personnel and aides to swiftly evacuate those affected. Among those on stage were Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly Adewale Egbedun, and Imole Campaign Council spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi.
The incident temporarily disrupted proceedings and triggered panic among attendees. A source familiar with the arrangements suggested that the large turnout at the venue may have contributed to the structural failure. Despite initial fears, neither Governor Adeleke nor any official sustained injuries. The rally continued after a short delay, with Adeleke addressing supporters before proceeding to another engagement in Odo-Otin Local Government Area.
Reacting to concerns raised by supporters and opposition figures about safety at public events, Osun State government officials played down the incident. They maintained that there was no cause for alarm as no one was hurt. Stage collapses have previously occurred at political rallies and entertainment shows across Nigeria, often prompting debate over crowd control and construction standards for temporary installations.
Adeleke, elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2022, has intensified grassroots mobilisation ahead of future polls in Osun’s South-West zone. The inauguration of Imole canvassers forms part of ongoing efforts by PDP stakeholders to consolidate support at constituency level. While Wednesday’s event ended without casualties, observers say it underscores the need for improved safety measures at large political gatherings.
Federal Government Declares Friday Public Holiday for Democracy Day Celebration
Ex-NNPCL Boss Kyari Challenges Senate Arrest Warrant Over Absence at Abuja Hearing
Osun Governor Adeleke Escapes Injury as Podium Collapses During Ijebu-Jesa Rally
Lagos Receives 268 Nigerians as Federal Government Begins South Africa Evacuation Over Xenophobia
EFCC, INEC Seal Partnership to Tackle Vote Buying in Abuja Ahead of 2027 Elections
Visa Blow for Ivory Coast Fans as US Bars Entry Ahead of World Cup Opener in Philadelphia
House of Representatives Passes Bill to Establish State Police Nationwide
Senate Disowns Arrest Warrant for Ex-NNPC Boss Kyari, Rebukes Oshiomhole Over ₦210trn Probe Comments
House of Reps Approves State Police Bill with 289 Votes, Amends Constitution for Decentralised Policing
Senate Withdraws Arrest Threat Against Ex-NNPC MD Kyari Over ‘Missing’ ₦210trn Oil Revenue
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
Why More Nigerians Are Searching for Casino Bonuses—and What You Should Know Before Claiming
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
Somali Referee Omar Artan Blocked From US World Cup Over Visa Row, Misses Dream Debut
Federal Government Launches Mining Grants for Research and Exploration Across Nigeria
House of Representatives Sets Thursday Vote on State Police Proposal
Borno State Records 74 Deaths as Cholera Outbreak Overwhelms Health Facilities
