News

NUJ condemns harassment of journalists, raises security, public welfare concerns

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, has condemned the recent harassment of journalists while carrying out their lawful duties within court premises, insisting that media practitioners must be allowed to perform their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation, obstruction or undue interference.

The union called on relevant authorities to uphold press freedom and guarantee the safety and protection of journalists at all times.

News

Recruitment: Competence, merit will prevail

Competence and merit will be the sole criteria guiding the ongoing recruitment exercise, the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has confirmed.

Maj.-Gen. Abdulmalik Jibril (retd) gave this assurance during an interview with journalists in Uyo.

He explained that physical screening and document verification are taking place at 14 centres nationwide, arranged to ensure easy access for all candidates.

News

Sanwo-Olu hails Tinubu as Senate passes state police bill

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu following the Senate’s passage of the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police, describing the development as a landmark step towards strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

The Senate on Wednesday approved all 26 clauses of the bill during consideration in the Committee of the Whole, paving the way for one of the most significant constitutional reforms in the country’s security framework in recent decades.

Education

OYOM secures court leave over maritime university

The Oro Youth Movement (OYOM), formally incorporated as the Oron Youth Progressive Assembly, has announced that it has secured leave from the Federal High Court to proceed with a suit seeking the full implementation of the University of Maritime Studies, Oron (UMSO).

In a statement issued on 18 June 2026, OYOM described the court’s decision as a significant step in its campaign to ensure the law establishing the institution is implemented.

Education

NAS marks World Drug Day with school outreach in Bayelsa

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has intensified efforts to combat drug abuse through an awareness campaign in secondary schools across Bayelsa State.

Members of the Oxbow Marino Deck commemorated the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with an educational outreach at Community Secondary School, Agudama-Epie, Yenagoa.

The event was held under the global theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

Entertainment

Agbara Nla returns to cinemas nationwide

Africa’s leading virtual cinema platform, Circuits, has announced a landmark partnership with Sozo Films and Mount Zion Film Productions for the nationwide cinema release of Agbara Nla: The Return on October 1.

The release marks the return of one of the most influential faith-based film franchises in African cinema.

Speaking on the project on Sunday,21 June 2026, Circuits Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, described the film’s comeback as a significant cultural and spiritual moment.

News

Oyebanji re-elected Ekiti Governor in landslide

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been re-elected as governor of Ekiti State after securing a commanding victory in the 2026 governorship election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oyebanji the winner after he polled 319,224 votes, defeating his closest challengers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

News

PWDs demand inclusion in PIA benefits structure

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) from oil-producing communities in Delta State have called for their inclusion in the benefit structures established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, arguing that they have been excluded from key decision-making and development opportunities.

The demand was made during a two-day advocacy workshop organised by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) at Orhoro Community in Uvwie Local Government Area. The programme, supported by the Ford Foundation, was held under the theme, “Ending Barriers Against Niger Deltans with Disabilities (EBAND).”

News

Akwa Ibom raises alarm over terror threat

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Akwa Ibom State have called on residents to unite, speak out and take collective action against terrorism, describing it as one of the greatest threats to peace, security and national unity.

Speaking at a gathering convened to address growing security concerns, the Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), Franklyn Isong, said terrorism had destroyed homes, separated families and caused widespread suffering across religious, ethnic and social divides.

News

Over 100 inmates receive counselling, food support in Bayelsa

More than 100 inmates at the Nigerian Correctional Centre, Okaka, Bayelsa State, have benefited from a counselling outreach and food donation programme organised by the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON), Bayelsa State Chapter, in partnership with the Successful Motherhood Initiative (SMI).

The outreach combined professional counselling services with the donation of food items to support inmates’ welfare and rehabilitation. Items donated included 10 bags of garri, 2 bags of beans, 2 gallons of palm oil, and 1 gallon of vegetable oil.