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  • Outrage as Video Shows Police Officers Waving Armed Men Through Northwest Checkpoint

    A video circulating on social media has sparked widespread reactions after it allegedly showed police officers allowing a group of heavily armed men to pass through a checkpoint in Northwest Nigeria without interference.

    The footage, shared by Sahara Reporters, captured several armed individuals travelling on motorcycles and in a pickup truck as they moved through a security checkpoint while uniformed officers appeared to interact with them.

    Video Triggers Public Concern

    The clip, which has attracted significant attention online, shows multiple armed men travelling in a convoy-like formation along a highway.

    Some of the individuals appeared to be carrying weapons openly as they passed through the checkpoint.

    The video also appeared to show police officers gesturing toward the group, a development that has generated concerns and accusations of possible complicity from members of the public.

    Northwest Remains Security Hotspot

    The incident comes amid persistent insecurity across several states in Northwest Nigeria, where armed groups have been linked to kidnappings, attacks on communities, cattle rustling and other violent crimes.

    States including Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and parts of Kaduna have recorded repeated attacks by armed gangs over the years despite ongoing military operations.

    The region remains one of the country’s major security flashpoints.

    Social Media Reactions

    The footage has generated intense debate online, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the apparent ease with which the armed men moved through the checkpoint.

    Some users questioned the effectiveness of security operations in affected regions, while others called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    A few commentators suggested the men could have been members of a recognised security or vigilante group, although no evidence has been presented to support that claim.

    No Official Statement Yet

    As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force has not issued an official statement regarding the video.

    Authorities have also not confirmed the location where the footage was recorded or the identities of the armed individuals involved.

    The incident has renewed calls for greater accountability within security agencies and stronger measures to tackle banditry and violent crime in the Northwest.

  • Court Keeps Sowore in Kuje Prison, Fixes June 30 for Bail Ruling

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, remain in Kuje Correctional Centre pending a ruling on his application challenging the revocation of his bail.

    Justice Mohammed Umar fixed June 30, 2026, to deliver a ruling on Sowore’s motion seeking to set aside the court order that revoked his bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

    Lawyers Seek Reversal of Bail Revocation

    During proceedings on Wednesday, Sowore’s counsel, Raphael Adakole, who represented Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, urged the court to restore the earlier bail granted to the activist.

    The application challenged the June 16 decision that revoked Sowore’s bail after he failed to appear in court for a scheduled hearing.

    The defence argued that the court should exercise its discretion and reverse the order, relying on provisions of the Constitution, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and the court’s inherent powers.

    DSS Opposes Application

    Counsel to the Department of State Services (DSS), Akinkolu Kehinde (SAN), opposed the application and urged the court to dismiss it.

    The DSS maintained that Sowore had not provided sufficient grounds to justify setting aside the earlier orders of the court.

    After listening to arguments from both parties, Justice Umar adjourned the matter until June 30 for ruling.

    Request for Temporary Release Rejected

    Following the hearing, Sowore’s legal team requested that he be released pending the court’s decision on the application.

    The defence offered an undertaking to ensure his appearance on the next adjourned date.

    However, the DSS opposed the request, and the court declined to grant it, meaning Sowore will remain in custody until the ruling is delivered.

    Cybercrime Charges

    Sowore is currently facing charges filed by the DSS over social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Bola Tinubu as a criminal.

    The prosecution argues that the statements were false, defamatory and capable of causing public disorder.

    Sowore has consistently denied wrongdoing and maintains that his comments were part of legitimate political criticism.

    Heavy Security Around Court

    Wednesday’s proceedings attracted significant attention, with heavy security deployed around the court premises.

    Supporters of Sowore gathered outside the court, while reports indicated minor tensions during the hearing.

    The case continues to draw national attention as debates over free speech, political dissent and cybercrime laws remain at the centre of the legal battle.

     

  • Tension at Abuja Court as Sowore’s Trial Resumes Amid Heavy DSS Presence

    Tension erupted at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday as the trial of activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, resumed amid a heavy security presence.

    Videos circulating online showed a large deployment of security personnel, including operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), around the court premises as supporters, lawyers and journalists gathered for the proceedings.

    Lawyer Access Sparks Dispute

    The situation reportedly became heated after claims emerged that one of Sowore’s lawyers was initially prevented from gaining access to the courtroom.

    Footage from the scene showed supporters confronting security operatives while attempting to gain entry into the court complex.

    Some individuals in the crowd accused security agencies of intimidating members of Sowore’s legal team and creating unnecessary tension around the proceedings.

    Heavy Security Presence Draws Attention

    The court premises witnessed an unusually large deployment of armed personnel, with several operatives stationed around key entry points.

    Supporters of Sowore questioned the level of security mobilised for the hearing, arguing that the resources could be better deployed to address insecurity challenges across the country.

    The atmosphere remained tense as lawyers, supporters and security personnel struggled to navigate the crowded court environment.

    Background to the Case

    Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters, is facing charges filed by the DSS under the Cybercrimes Act over social media posts allegedly considered defamatory toward President Bola Tinubu.

    The activist was remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre after the Federal High Court revoked his bail over his failure to appear at an earlier hearing.

    His legal team subsequently filed fresh applications challenging aspects of the proceedings, prompting Wednesday’s hearing.

    Supporters Rally Around Activist

    The court appearance attracted a sizeable number of Sowore’s supporters, many of whom gathered outside the courtroom chanting slogans and expressing solidarity with the activist.

    The case has continued to generate public debate, with supporters describing it as a test of free speech and political dissent, while government officials maintain that the charges are based on alleged violations of existing laws.

    Awaiting Court Decision

    Proceedings are expected to continue as the court considers applications filed by Sowore’s legal team and determines the next stage of the trial.

    The outcome is being closely monitored by political observers, civil society groups and supporters of the activist across the country.

  • NANS President Accuses Ogun Polytechnic of Inflating NELFUND Tuition Figures

    The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has accused the management of D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, Ogun State, of inflating tuition figures submitted to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) portal.

    The allegation was made in a video posted on social media on Tuesday, where the student leader claimed that the amounts uploaded by the institution were significantly higher than the actual fees paid by students.

    Rector Named in Allegation

    In the video, the NANS President specifically accused the institution’s rector, Dr. Rauf Adegoke, and the school management of misrepresenting students’ tuition figures under the federal student loan scheme.

    He alleged that the discrepancies could amount to fraud and diversion of public funds meant to support students through NELFUND.

    The student leader displayed screenshots purportedly obtained from the NELFUND portal alongside what he described as the institution’s fee payment records.

    Discrepancies Highlighted

    According to the allegations, Higher National Diploma (HND) I students who reportedly pay about ₦236,000 in school fees had figures ranging between ₦350,000 and ₦355,000 uploaded on the NELFUND platform.

    For National Diploma (ND) II students, he claimed the actual tuition stood at about ₦152,000, while the amount reflected on the loan portal was around ₦330,000.

    The NANS President argued that the differences raise serious concerns about transparency in the administration of the student loan programme.

    Calls for Investigation

    The allegations have generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for an independent investigation into the matter.

    Some social media users urged anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), to examine the claims.

    Others suggested that NELFUND should strengthen its verification processes to prevent potential abuse by institutions.

    No Official Response Yet

    As of the time of filing this report, neither D.S. Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic nor its rector has publicly responded to the allegations.

    NELFUND and the Federal Ministry of Education have also not issued any official statement regarding the claims.

    The controversy adds to growing scrutiny of the student loan scheme as stakeholders continue to monitor its implementation across tertiary institutions.

  • Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval for State Police Bill

    President Bola Tinubu has formally transmitted a Constitution Alteration Bill to the Senate seeking the creation of state police services across Nigeria, a move that could significantly reshape the country’s security architecture.

    The proposed legislation was read on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday during an emergency plenary session presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    Tinubu Pushes for State Policing

    In a letter dated June 15, 2026, Tinubu said the bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to provide a legal framework for the establishment of state police services.

    The President described the proposal as a critical step toward addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges through a more decentralised policing structure.

    “I am delighted to present to the Senate for consideration the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) State Police Bill, 2026,” the letter stated.

    Dual Policing System Proposed

    If passed, the bill would create a dual policing arrangement consisting of federal and state police forces.

    Supporters of the proposal argue that state governments are better positioned to tackle local security threats such as banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes and other crimes affecting their communities.

    The bill is also expected to include provisions for federal oversight, coordination and operational standards to ensure accountability and professionalism.

    Bill Sent to Constitution Review Committee

    Following its presentation, Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution for further legislative action.

    For the amendment to become law, it must secure the support of at least two-thirds of members in both the Senate and House of Representatives. It will also require approval by no fewer than 24 state Houses of Assembly.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Proposal

    The development has generated debate among political stakeholders and Nigerians.

    Advocates of state police have described the bill as a major step toward true federalism and improved security management, arguing that governors need greater control over security within their states.

    However, critics have raised concerns about possible political interference, abuse of power by state governments, funding challenges and the need for strong oversight mechanisms.

    Part of Wider Reforms

    The state police proposal adds to a series of institutional reforms pursued by the Tinubu administration, including efforts to strengthen local government autonomy and implement tax reforms.

    More details on the structure, funding and operations of the proposed state police system are expected to emerge as lawmakers begin deliberations on the bill.

  • Taraba Government Cuts Street Sweepers’ Salary, Tells Unhappy Workers to Leave

    The Taraba State Environmental and Sanitation Agency has reduced the monthly salary of street sweepers under its “Operation Keep Taraba Clean” programme from ₦15,000 to ₦10,000, a decision that has generated criticism from residents and social media users.

    The agency said the move was necessary to accommodate financial pressures linked to the recruitment of additional civil servants and declining available resources.

    Workers Face Another Salary Reduction

    The affected workers, mostly women and low-income youths, were initially employed in 2023 on a monthly salary of ₦20,000.

    Their pay was later reduced to ₦15,000 before the latest cut to ₦10,000.

    The reduction was announced by the agency’s chairman, Hon. Illiya Kefas, who said the adjustment was part of efforts to manage operational costs amid budget constraints.

    Agency Defends Decision

    According to Kefas, the agency is under pressure to balance available resources while sustaining government obligations.

    He reportedly stated that workers dissatisfied with the new arrangement are free to leave the programme.

    The chairman maintained that the decision was taken in response to financial realities facing the state government.

    Residents Question Government Priorities

    The decision has sparked backlash, particularly as reports indicate that Taraba State received about ₦42.62 billion in Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursements during the first quarter of 2026.

    Critics argue that reducing the earnings of some of the state’s lowest-paid workers sends the wrong message at a time when living costs continue to rise across the country.

    Many residents have questioned why sanitation workers should bear the burden of budget adjustments while government officials continue to enjoy allowances and other benefits.

    Concerns Over Welfare and Sanitation

    The latest pay reduction leaves the workers earning far below Nigeria’s ₦70,000 national minimum wage.

    Observers warn that the move could affect staff morale and potentially impact sanitation services if workers decide to abandon their jobs.

    The development has also reignited discussions about the welfare of casual workers and the challenges facing vulnerable households amid economic pressures.

    Debate Continues

    The agency has yet to provide details on how many workers will be affected or whether any support measures will be introduced to cushion the impact.

    As public criticism grows, attention is likely to remain on the state’s handling of worker welfare and spending priorities in the coming weeks.

     

  • Sowore Remanded in Kuje Prison as Court Rejects Bias Allegation Against Judge

    Human rights activist, publisher of Sahara Reporters, and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been remanded in the Kuje Correctional Centre by a Federal High Court in Abuja pending the continuation of his trial on cybercrime charges.

    The order was issued on Monday by Justice Mohammed Umar after the court dismissed an application filed by Sowore seeking the judge’s withdrawal from the case over alleged bias.

    Court Rejects Recusal Request

    Sowore had asked the court to recuse itself from the matter, arguing that the judge’s actions raised concerns about impartiality.

    However, Justice Umar dismissed the application and directed that the trial should proceed.

    Following the ruling, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) took Sowore into custody from the courtroom.

    Details of the Charges

    The DSS is prosecuting Sowore on a two-count charge under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

    The charges stem from social media posts in which he allegedly referred to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a “criminal.”

    Prosecutors contend that the statements were false and capable of causing public disorder and undermining public peace.

    Earlier Bail Revocation

    The court had previously revoked Sowore’s self-recognisance bail and issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear before the court on June 16.

    Although his legal team wrote to seek an adjournment, the court ruled that no sufficient reason was provided for his absence.

    That decision paved the way for the issuance of the arrest warrant and the subsequent remand order.

    Case Resumes Wednesday

    Justice Umar ordered that Sowore be held at the Kuje Correctional Centre until June 24, when the matter is expected to continue.

    The case has generated reactions from supporters and civil society groups, with some describing the prosecution as an attack on free speech and political opposition.

    Sowore has maintained his innocence and is expected to continue his defence when the trial resumes.

     

  • Sunday Igboho Issues Ultimatum as Kidnapped Victims Regain Freedom in Oyo Community

    Several kidnapped victims were reportedly released in Igboho, Oyo State, after Yoruba Nation activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani community leaders in the town.

    The development, which has generated widespread attention, followed a meeting involving traditional rulers, community leaders and Fulani elders at the palace of the Alepata of Igboho.

    Igboho Raises Alarm Over Kidnappings

    According to reports, Igboho expressed concern over rising cases of abduction in the area and accused some individuals within the Fulani community of being linked to criminal activities targeting residents.

    He reportedly cited the case of a pregnant woman who was kidnapped, for whom ransom was allegedly paid, but who was later killed alongside the individual who delivered the ransom.

    During the meeting, Igboho was said to have demanded the immediate release of all victims allegedly being held by kidnappers.

    “Tell your children to release those they are holding. We cannot continue like this,” he reportedly told the gathering.

    Victims Reportedly Released

    Shortly after the expiration of the ultimatum, reports and videos circulating on social media claimed that several kidnapped victims had regained their freedom.

    Residents were seen celebrating in footage shared online, with reports indicating that the victims returned safely to the community.

    The exact number of those released has not been officially confirmed.

    No Official Security Confirmation Yet

    As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement confirming the releases or providing details on the circumstances surrounding them.

    The development remains based largely on local reports and accounts from residents within the community.

    Growing Security Concerns in Oyo

    The incident comes amid heightened concerns over insecurity in parts of Oyo State, particularly following the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area in May.

    Those victims remain in captivity, with public pressure mounting on authorities to secure their release.

    Since his return to Nigeria earlier this year, Sunday Igboho has continued to speak out against kidnapping, banditry and other security challenges affecting communities across the South-West.

  • FUOYE Suspends SUG President, Officials Over Levy Allegation as Two Students Face Sanctions Over Leaked Video

    The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) has suspended its Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, James Iyanuoluwa Adio, alongside two senior officials over allegations linked to the unauthorised collection of money from students.

    The university also suspended two students over their alleged involvement in the circulation of a private video linked to the suspended student leader, further deepening a controversy that has generated reactions within the institution and beyond.

    Officials Suspended Over Alleged Levy Collection

    In a statement issued on June 17, the university registrar, Mufutau Ibrahim, announced the suspension of Olanrewaju Ogunjobi, Director of the Directorate of Educational Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Banji Rildwan Olaleye, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs and Support Services; and SUG President James Adio.

    The action followed a petition alleging that some 100-level students were compelled to pay ₦1,000 each for practical sessions.

    According to the university, a preliminary fact-finding committee was established to investigate the allegations and invited all affected parties to respond.

    Management said the committee found that Ogunjobi allegedly approved and collected the money without obtaining the required approvals from the university Senate, management, or the Bursary Department.

    Olaleye was also accused of participating in the collection process.

    SUG President Linked to Funds

    The university alleged that Adio was indirectly connected to the matter after he reportedly participated in the sharing of an initial amount before later demanding a refund.

    Management claimed that ₦700,000 was subsequently transferred into the student leader’s personal bank account.

    FUOYE reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that it would not tolerate extortion, abuse of office, financial misconduct, or corruption in any form.

    NANS Challenges Suspension

    The suspensions drew criticism from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), which described the action against the SUG president as unfair.

    On June 19, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde met with FUOYE Vice-Chancellor Professor Joshua Ogunwole to discuss the matter.

    During the meeting, Babatunde reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the suspension, while the vice-chancellor explained the circumstances surrounding the decision and promised a fair review by the university Senate.

    The vice-chancellor also directed an investigation into the leak of Adio’s private information, including an explicit video that circulated online.

    Two Students Suspended Over Leaked Video

    On June 20, FUOYE announced the suspension of two students, Alao Iyanuoluwa Odunayo and Olawale Abiodun Samuel.

    According to the university, the students allegedly conspired to publish the suspended SUG president’s private affairs online after he failed to meet their financial demands.

    A statement signed on behalf of the Acting Vice-Chancellor by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Tajudeen Opoola, described the alleged act as cyberbullying capable of damaging the institution’s reputation.

    The students were suspended pending the conclusion of further investigations.

    The university Senate is expected to review the suspensions and related findings as investigations continue.

     

  • States Receive Nearly Three Times More FAAC Allocations Under Tinubu Reforms

    Nigerian states received significantly higher allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) in April 2026 compared to the period shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, according to official figures highlighted by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Media Centre.

    The data shows that state governments collectively received about ₦772 billion in April 2026, compared to approximately ₦266 billion shared in May 2023, reflecting a sharp rise in federation account revenues following major economic reforms introduced by the current administration.

    FAAC Allocations Rise Across States

    Several states recorded substantial increases in their monthly allocations during the period under review.

    Lagos State’s allocation increased from ₦11.5 billion in May 2023 to ₦40.5 billion in April 2026, while Abia State’s share rose from ₦6.25 billion to ₦16.1 billion.

    Oil-producing states, including Rivers and Delta, also recorded notable increases as higher oil revenues boosted overall federation earnings.

    For April 2026, FAAC distributed a total of about ₦2.257 trillion to the three tiers of government. The Federal Government received ₦787.351 billion, state governments received ₦772.360 billion, while local governments got ₦540.152 billion. An additional ₦157.254 billion was paid as 13 per cent derivation to oil-producing states.

    Tinubu Reforms Linked to Revenue Growth

    The increase in allocations has been linked to key economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration shortly after taking office in 2023.

    These include the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of exchange rates that led to naira devaluation, and improved tax and VAT collections.

    Supporters of the reforms argue that the policies have strengthened federation revenues, increased foreign reserves, and pushed monthly FAAC distributions to levels ranging between ₦1.8 trillion and ₦2.6 trillion in recent periods.

    Concerns Over Inflation and Purchasing Power

    Despite the rise in nominal allocations, critics have argued that inflation has significantly reduced the real value of the funds received by states.

    They note that cumulative inflation since mid-2023 has exceeded 100 per cent, while the depreciation of the naira has reduced the dollar value of some state allocations.

    Some analysts contend that although states now receive more money in naira terms, many Nigerians have yet to see corresponding improvements in public infrastructure, healthcare, education, or salary payments.

    Calls for Greater Accountability

    The increase in FAAC allocations has renewed calls for greater accountability at the state level.

    Supporters of the administration maintain that governors now have more resources to deliver development projects and improve public services, while critics insist that citizens deserve clearer evidence of how the additional revenues are being spent.

    The debate continues as Nigeria balances higher government revenues with ongoing challenges such as inflation, unemployment, and rising living costs.