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Senate Grills Rivers State Administrator Ibas [PHOTOS]

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The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), appeared before the Senate on Wednesday to answer questions concerning the ₦1.48 trillion budget currently being implemented in the state.

Ibas, who was appointed following the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, was accompanied by key officials, including members of the state’s economic team.

They will be facing the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule, which is tasked with oversight of the interim administration.

President Bola Tinubu had declared emergency rule in the state on March 18, 2025, citing the breakdown of governance following a prolonged political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor and political rival, Nyesom Wike.

Lagos govt closes popular abattoir, gives reason

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The Lagos State Government on Thursday announced the indefinite closure of an abattoir in the Agege area of Lagos State.

The closure of the abattoir was announced by the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab.

According to the commissioner, the abattoir was shut down over violations of environmental laws and unhygienic practices.

In a video post shared on X, the commissioner said, “During our inspection of the abattoir facility, we have announced indefinite closure of Oko Oba Abattoir, Agege over unhygienic practices and violating different environmental laws.”

In another event, Wahab said members of his team conducted a patrol to ensure environmental compliance across the state.

He wrote, “Our teams conducted extensive night patrols across key locations in Lagos to ensure environmental compliance. At Adeola Hopewell and Milverton Road in Ikoyi, surveillance operations were maintained to prevent illegal dumping and other violations.”

He also stated that five environmental offenders were arrested at the Abdurahman Close off Ligali Ayorinde.

He said the offenders were arrested for violating sanitation laws.

Wahab stated, “Their arrests serve as a clear warning to others; our enforcement is relentless.

“Our officers also actively monitored the Eko Hotel Roundabout to maintain order and deter potential violations,” he added.

Soludo orders Anambra landlords to repaint their buildings

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The governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo has issued a fresh deadline to all house owners across major cities of the state.

The state government gave the landlords an ultimatum to repaint their buildings or face sanctions.

Felix Odimegwu, the Anambra State Commissioner for Environment said the landlords have until July 1 to repaint their buildings.

According to Odimegwu, the initiative is part of Soludo’s vision to create a cleaner, smarter and greener Anambra.

“Property owners in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia, Nkpor, and other semi-urban areas must comply with the order. Inspectors will begin building assessments immediately, while full enforcement of the directive will commence on July 1, 2025, Odimegwu said in the notice.

Citing the Anambra State Environmental Management, Protection and Administration Law 2024, the commissioner warned that non-compliance will result in penalties for the landlords.

“This exercise is aimed at strengthening existing building structures, improving the aesthetic ambience, and expanding the green space of the state.

“Buildings that haven’t been repainted in the last 10 years, or those with peeling, faded, or unsightly paint, are firmly in the government’s sights, particularly those located in public view (anya ora),” he stated.

Odimegwu said, “The legal authority for this action stems from Part 4, Section 79 (1–7) of the 2024 environmental law, which empowers the Ministry of Environment to enforce measures for environmental improvement and urban beautification.”

Youths Tear Down Tinubu’s Billboard During Visit to Kaduna [VIDEO]

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A group of angry youths has torn down billboards bearing the images of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, during the president’s official visit to the state.

The billboards, which were erected to welcome the president to Kaduna, were vandalised.

Videos circulating online show agitated youths pulling down some of the structures, although the motive behind the act is yet to be ascertained. However, the actions may not be unconnected to the growing public frustration over rising inflation and economic hardship since Tinubu assumed office in 2023.

President Tinubu is in Kaduna to inaugurate key development projects, including a 300-bed specialist hospital situated at Millennium Square. The newly opened facility has been named the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital.

The hospital comprises nine wings, including departments for maternal and child health, radiology and imaging, an intensive care unit (ICU), and a special care unit, among others. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority has also approved the establishment of a cancer treatment centre and nuclear medicine facility within the hospital complex.

The presidential visit drew the presence of high-ranking dignitaries, including Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Barau Jibrin, Deputy Senate President; and Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Zazzau.

Several governors were also in attendance, including Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara).

Expectedly absent at the event was former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a move that has further deepened political permutations in the state.



‘Your leadership style is changing lives’, Gov Sani hails Tinubu

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Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has hailed the leadership style of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during the commissioning of various projects by President Bola Tinubu in Kaduna, the governor said his administration and the people of the state are grateful to the president.

He also appreciated the president for supporting the state in the smooth implementation of its master plan for transportation.

“Kaduna State is grateful to you for fully supporting the smooth implementation of our master plan on transportation.

“True to your word, you provided the sum of N100bn in the 2025 FG budget for the Kaduna light rail. We say thank you, Mr. President (Tinubu),” Governor Sani said.

Sani noted that his administration has successfully launched a historic infrastructural initiative in the state.

He said, “We have launched an unprecedented infrastructure program, the largest in Kaduna’s history, with 79 roads spanning 780 km.

“Twenty-nine roads have already been completed. In education over the last two years, we have built 62 new secondary schools and constructed 722 new classrooms,” Sani noted.

According to Sani, Tinubu’s leadership style has delivered hope for every population in the state and Nigeria in as a whole.

“For every farmer who once abandoned his land out of fear, for every child who now walks safely to school, for every mother who can access healthcare without worry, and for every youth who dares to dream again, your leadership is a beacon of light.”

“Your leadership is a beacon of light; it is working, it is changing lives,” the governor added.

Security Heightened as Tinubu Storms Akwa Ibom State on Saturday

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Security has been reinforced across Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, in preparation for the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday, June 21.

The President is expected to attend a grand reception in honour of Governor Umo Eno, who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Confirming the security arrangements, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, assured the public that adequate security is being put in place for the event.

He added that the command is working with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful and well-coordinated occasion.

The event, slated to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, will be hosted by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, and the APC National Chairman, Alhaji Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

According to a statement issued by the chairman of the media and publicity subcommittee, Aniekan Umanah, arrangements have been finalised for the landmark occasion.

“The All Progressives Congress (APC) is pleased to announce that all is set for the grand reception of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D., and his team into the APC,” Umanah stated.

“The historic event is scheduled to hold on Saturday, June 21, 2025, by noon at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

“His Excellency, Alhaji Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the APC, will formally receive Governor Umo Eno and his team into the party, following an official presentation by the Akwa Ibom State APC Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo.

‘The event will be graced by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Leader of the APC, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who will officially welcome Governor Eno into the progressive fold.

“Also expected is the Chief host and President of the Senate, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio GCON, whose presence will further underscore the spirit of unity and political alignment between Akwa Ibom State and the Federal Government. This moment marks a significant milestone in fostering collaboration for the progress and prosperity of the State.

“Other dignitaries expected include members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, the APC National Working Committee, senior party chieftains, and key political stakeholders from across the country.

“The APC warmly invites traditional rulers, political leaders, women and youth groups, and all citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State to be part of this historic celebration.

“Come and join us in giving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Senate President, and other distinguished guests a rousing welcome as we celebrate unity, progress, and the rising hope of Akwa Ibom State under the APC.”

Trump to decide on Iran Attack within 2 Weeks as Death Toll hits 639

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President Trump has informed senior aides that he will decide on whether to authorize strikes against Iran within the next two weeks, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday. The announcement underscores the growing impatience in Washington with Tehran’s refusal to curb its nuclear aspirations, even as diplomatic efforts continue in Europe.

On Friday, foreign ministers from Germany, France, and the United Kingdom plan to meet with Iranian envoys in Geneva. Their objective is twofold: to persuade Iran to de-escalate regional tensions and to negotiate a rollback of its nuclear program. Western officials hope that sustained diplomatic engagement will offer Tehran a face-saving exit and avert military confrontation.

Meanwhile, the Israeli–Iranian exchange of fire entered its seventh day. An Iranian missile strike on an Israeli hospital caused significant damage but, according to local authorities, did not result in civilian casualties. In retaliation, the Israel Defense Forces reported targeting some 100 sites across Iran overnight, including the heavy-water reactor near Arak and a facility at Natanz linked to uranium enrichment for nuclear-weapons development.

Trump has signaled that he is withholding a final decision on military action to see whether mounting pressure—both diplomatic and military—will compel Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions. “I may do it, I may not do it,” he told reporters Tuesday, adding that the coming week “is going to be very big, maybe less than a week” in determining Tehran’s next steps.

In recent days, the United States has bolstered its military posture in the region. A third Navy destroyer has joined the eastern Mediterranean fleet, and a second carrier strike group is en route to the Arabian Sea. Pentagon officials describe the deployments as defensive, but analysts note they also serve as a strategic lever to urge Tehran toward concessions.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed that his country will “never surrender,” warning that any U.S. attack would yield “irreparable consequences” for American interests in the Middle East.

Key Developments

Israeli Response: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced Iran’s hospital strike as the act of “terrorist tyrants” and vowed to continue dismantling Tehran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure “step by step.”

IAEA Statement: The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog confirmed there was no radioactive leak at the Khondab heavy-water reactor following the Israeli raid.

U.S. Evacuations: The U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv is coordinating evacuation flights for American citizens, Ambassador Mike Huckabee announced.

Casualty Figures: According to the WSJ, Human-rights monitors report at least 639 fatalities in Iran and 24 deaths in Israel stemming from the recent exchanges of fire.

APC Crisis deepens as Support Groups Collapse Structure for Atiku

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In a bold political shift, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups led by Ismaila Abu Ishaq have formally thrown their support behind former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Ishaq, once a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, announced on Thursday that the movement will henceforth be known as the Coalition for Project Rescue Nigeria 2027.

Addressing journalists after visiting Atiku’s Abuja residence, Ishaq said the Coalition was born out of a collective determination to “rescue Nigeria from a failed APC leadership.” He added that the group aims to rally behind “a tested, credible, and visionary leader” who can tackle the country’s lingering challenges—ranging from insecurity and crumbling infrastructure to economic downturn, poverty, and hunger.

Reflecting on past achievements, the new Coalition praised the developmental record of the Obasanjo-Atiku era. “The Coalition for Project Rescue Nigeria 2027 will not just be a campaign vehicle, but a national salvation effort,” Ishaq asserted, “to ensure that Nigeria returns to the days of unity, progress and prosperity.”

In response, Atiku Abubakar welcomed the Coalition’s support and vowed to offer mentorship, particularly for young Nigerians eager to reclaim their nation’s future. He lamented the current state of the economy, stating, “It pains me to see the strong economy bequeathed by successive PDP administrations frittered away by the Tinubu-led APC government.”

The former Vice President urged the group to ensure it continues to participate in the democratic processes that would guarantee the restoration of an economically viable and democratically stable future for the country.

JUST IN: FG prosecuting Senator Natasha to shield Akpabio

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Oby Ezekwesili, former education minister, has accused the federal government of abusing its powers to protect Godswill Akpabio, senate president, from sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a post on X on Thursday, Ezekwesili said Akpoti-Uduaghan was arraigned at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) high court on charges of criminal defamation filed by federal government lawyers acting on behalf of Akpabio and his allies.

She said the arraignment is a “crafty act of diversion” designed to intimidate the Kogi senator and discourage other citizens from speaking out.

Her words: “In a case of gross abuse of power, the senate president, the Nigerian Senate, and Senator Akpabio co-opted the Nigerian government to turn the table on Senator Natasha Akpoti.

“Her demands for fair hearing and an independent investigation of her sexual harassment allegations have so far fallen on deaf ears.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge during her arraignment on Thursday.

Ezekwesili said lawyers representing the federal government asked the court to deny her bail and commit her to prison until the trial begins on September 23, 2025.

Justice Orji, who presided over the case, rejected the bail application and granted the senator bail with conditions, which she met before leaving the court.

The former minister wrote: “She walked out of court in the company of her devoted husband.

“She’s not backing down and continues to insist that her sexual harassment petition against Senator Akpabio is the issue that cannot be ignored regardless of the shenanigans of those that seek to silence her.”

Ezekwesili, who was in court alongside other civil society activists including Aisha Yesufu and representatives of FIDA, said Akpoti-Uduaghan received overwhelming support from her Kogi Central constituents and other citizens.

She described the prosecution as a dangerous signal to Nigerians that anyone who dares to speak up will face oppression.

“All reasonable Nigerians agree and stand with her,” she stated.

Tinubu won’t relent until terrorism is crushed, says Minister

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Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has given clear marching orders to security agencies to restore peace and security across the country.

In a post on X on Thursday, Idris said the president remains fully committed to ending terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality.

“Every Nigerian life matters, and we will not relent until terrorism, banditry and all other forms of criminality are decisively tackled,” he wrote.

He said the administration is investing heavily in modern equipment and security hardware.

“The administration is investing heavily in equipment and hardware, including aircraft, UAVs, ships, vehicles and more,” he said.

Idris added that the president is focused on improving coordination across security and intelligence agencies to boost operational effectiveness.

“We are also seeing unprecedented levels of synergy and coordination among our security and intelligence agencies,” he said.

“The President is very keen on ensuring this unified front, which is critical to the enduring success we are working hard to achieve,” he added.