Nigeria News (Standard)
Rivers: Road Accident Claims Lives of Two WAEC Candidates, Okada Rider in Port Harcourt
Students returning from Odoha Community Secondary School after WAEC exams killed as motorcycle collides with truck near Choba Bridge
Students returning from Odoha Community Secondary School after WAEC exams killed as motorcycle collides with truck near Choba Bridge
A fatal accident along Choba Bridge on the East–West Road in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, claimed the lives of two female students writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and a commercial motorcyclist on Wednesday. The incident occurred as the students were returning home from their examination centre at Odoha Community Secondary School in Emohua Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses reported that the students boarded motorcycles after their exam session and were heading home when their bike collided with a moving truck on the busy stretch of road. All three victims—the Okada rider and two schoolgirls—were confirmed dead at the scene. The tragic event has thrown the local community into mourning, especially as it involved students who had just concluded a crucial examination.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is currently conducting its annual WASSCE nationwide, a period often marked by increased travel for candidates between their homes and designated exam centres. The loss of these students highlights ongoing safety concerns on major roads in Rivers State and across Nigeria, particularly for young people relying on commercial motorcycles for transportation.
Authorities in Rivers State are yet to issue an official statement regarding the crash as at press time. Efforts to reach representatives of WAEC for comment were unsuccessful. Road safety advocates have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and improved road infrastructure around educational institutions to prevent such tragedies.
Community leaders and parents are urging government to take urgent action to enhance road safety near schools, especially during national examinations. Stakeholders emphasise that safeguarding the lives of students must remain a priority as thousands continue to participate in WASSCE across the country.
Nigeria News (Standard)
House of Representatives Passes State Police Bill in Landmark Abuja Session
Legislation aims to decentralise policing powers; move sparks debate over security and constitutional amendment requirements
Legislation aims to decentralise policing powers; move sparks debate over security and constitutional amendment requirements
The House of Representatives on Thursday passed a bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria, marking a significant step towards decentralising security architecture in the country. The session, which took place at the National Assembly complex in Abuja on 11 June, saw lawmakers vote overwhelmingly in favour of the proposal after prolonged deliberations.
The bill’s passage follows months of pressure from various stakeholders calling for more localised control of security operations amid persistent insecurity in several regions. Lawmakers debated provisions for recruitment, oversight, and funding of the proposed state police forces before agreeing to forward the bill to the next legislative stage.
Advocates argue that state police will enhance rapid response to crime and address peculiar security challenges facing states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, and Rivers. However, critics warn that without strong safeguards, state governors may abuse policing powers for political ends. The legislation also faces hurdles as it requires constitutional amendment, demanding concurrence from two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 State Houses of Assembly.
Supporters within the House described the move as historic. “This bill represents a bold step towards empowering states to secure their people,” one lawmaker said during plenary. Opposition members urged caution, stressing the need for clear guidelines to prevent potential misuse by state executives.
With the House’s approval secured, attention now shifts to the Senate and state legislatures. If enacted, Nigeria will join countries like the United States and India with multi-level policing systems. Analysts say successful implementation could improve public trust in law enforcement but caution that funding and operational independence will be critical challenges moving forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Chinese Embassy, Federal Ministry Mark 55 Years of Nigeria-China Relations at Abuja Exhibition
Zero-tariff policy for African imports, cultural exchange and technology cooperation top agenda at anniversary event
Zero-tariff policy for African imports, cultural exchange and technology cooperation top agenda at anniversary event
Officials from the Chinese Embassy and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology gathered at the China Cultural Centre in Abuja on Wednesday to commemorate 55 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and China. The event, which featured a traditional calligraphy and Tang Dynasty virtual reality exhibition, highlighted both countries’ commitment to deepening partnerships in trade, technology, and culture.
The anniversary celebration comes as China rolled out a new zero-tariff policy for imports from 53 African countries, including Nigeria. Yang Jianxing, Cultural Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy and Director of the China Cultural Centre, said at the event that the move would provide Nigerian businesses with greater access to Chinese markets and support economic growth. “On May 1 this year, China began implementing zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries, including Nigeria. This will provide more mutually beneficial market opportunities and greatly contribute to Nigeria’s economic development,” Yang said during his address.
The exhibition in Abuja was organised as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen people-to-people connections between both nations. Yang noted that exchanges in education, business and culture have increased over the years. He also emphasised the significance of 2026 being declared the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. “For 55 years, the friendship between China and Nigeria has been profound and enduring,” Yang added.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mukhtar Muhammad, represented Nigeria at the event. Muhammad called for further cooperation in science, technology and innovation sectors. “Nigeria has the largest population in Africa; a dialogue with Chinese civilisation will help us advance further in terms of technology, innovation and science,” he said.
The anniversary coincided with the International Day for Dialogue of Civilisations on June 10. Both sides agreed that cultural engagement is essential for mutual understanding amid global tensions. Going forward, officials pledged to sustain high-level visits and expand joint initiatives in trade facilitation, cultural programming and technological innovation between Nigeria and China.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Sanwo-Olu Presents Hamzat, Sonayon-James as APC Lagos Governorship Ticket for 2027
Governor unveils current deputy and new running mate, signaling party’s strategy ahead of next Lagos election
Governor unveils current deputy and new running mate, signaling party’s strategy ahead of next Lagos election
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday in Lagos introduced his current deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, alongside Sonayon-James as the All Progressives Congress (APC) joint ticket for the state’s 2027 governorship election. The announcement was made during a gathering of party stakeholders in Lagos.
According to details shared at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu formally presented Dr. Hamzat and Mrs. Sonayon-James to APC leaders and supporters as the preferred flagbearers for the next election cycle. The move is seen as part of APC’s early preparations to maintain its hold on Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Lagos State has remained under APC control since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. Political observers say that by confirming his deputy and introducing a fresh face like Sonayon-James, Sanwo-Olu is positioning the party to address both continuity and demands for broader representation within Lagos politics.
The formal presentation was attended by top APC officials in Lagos State. However, opposition parties are yet to react officially to the unveiling of the APC ticket. Party members at the event expressed confidence that the duo will deliver victory for APC in 2027.
With this early declaration, political activities are expected to intensify as other parties strategise ahead of the governorship poll. Stakeholders are watching closely to see how APC’s choice will shape alliances and opposition tactics in coming months.
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