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  • Shettima Visits NIPSS After Deadly Gunmen Attack in Plateau

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday visited the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, days after gunmen attacked the institution and killed three security personnel.

    The visit comes as the Federal Government moves to reassure the institute, its staff and surrounding communities of its commitment to improving security and maintaining stability in the country.

    Shettima Assesses Situation at NIPSS

    Shettima arrived at the institute for an on-the-spot assessment of its operations, facilities and ongoing strategic programmes following the attack.

    The Vice President was accompanied by Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and other senior government officials.

    He was received by the Director-General of NIPSS, Ayo Omotayo, alongside members of the institute’s management team.

    According to officials, the visit was aimed at demonstrating the Federal Government’s support for the institution and reinforcing efforts to ensure peace and security in the area.

    Attack Claimed Three Security Personnel

    Gunmen attacked the institute in the early hours of Tuesday, triggering concerns over security at one of Nigeria’s foremost policy and leadership training institutions.

    The attack was initially confirmed by the Head of Public Affairs Department at NIPSS, Dr Osime Samuel, who stated that security personnel and relevant agencies quickly brought the situation under control.

    While assuring the public that institute activities continued as scheduled, authorities maintained that there was no threat to participants, staff, residents or facilities after the incident.

    However, the Plateau State Police Command later confirmed that three security personnel lost their lives during the attack.

    In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, the command said investigations had commenced to identify and apprehend those responsible.

    Arrests Made as Investigation Continues

    Speaking on Thursday, NIPSS Director-General Professor Omotayo disclosed that some suspects had already been arrested in connection with the attack.

    He said security agencies were continuing investigations and vowed that all individuals involved would be brought to justice.

    The Federal Government has yet to release further details on the attack, but officials say efforts are ongoing to strengthen security around the institute and other critical national facilities.

  • IPOB Suspends Nnamdi Kanu, Removes Him as Radio Biafra Director

    The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has announced the indefinite suspension of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and removed him from his position as Director of Radio Biafra in what the group described as a move to strengthen and reposition its operations.

    The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by Chikadibia Edoziem, head of IPOB’s Directorate of State (DOS), the organisation’s highest decision-making body.

    IPOB Explains Suspension Decision

    According to the statement, the suspension was approved during a DOS meeting held on June 17 after members reviewed an intelligence report allegedly compiled by IPOB’s M-Branch.

    The report reportedly focused on a meeting involving Kanu and officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA) while in detention.

    IPOB said the move was necessary to protect the organisation’s structure and prevent actions it believes could endanger members or undermine its objectives.

    Group Cites Security Concerns

    Edoziem claimed that Kanu’s communications and activities while in custody were under constant monitoring by security agencies and alleged that information from prison communications had previously led to arrests and deaths of IPOB members.

    The group also alleged that there were plans to create a new militia that could trigger fresh violence in the South-East and weaken the organisation’s leadership structure.

    According to IPOB, suspending the office of the leader would help prevent individuals from claiming authority to carry out activities that conflict with the movement’s objectives.

    Radio Biafra Role Removed

    As part of the decision, Kanu was also removed from his role as Director of Radio Biafra.

    IPOB maintained that the organisation was founded as a self-determination movement by Biafrans in the diaspora and insisted that no individual possesses the authority to dissolve its central leadership structure.

    The group added that any criminal activity carried out in the name of the suspended office of the leader would no longer be attributed to IPOB.

    Organisation Distances Itself From Unauthorized Actions

    The statement further noted that IPOB would not accept responsibility for actions carried out by individuals or groups who are not officially authorised by its Directorate of State.

    The organisation said the suspension would remain in place indefinitely as part of efforts to maintain internal discipline and prevent further security risks.

     

  • Federal Government Rolls Out FreeTV, Nigerians Raise Questions Over Power Supply

    The Federal Government has officially rolled out FreeTV, a national digital television platform offering over 100 free channels across Nigeria. The initiative is part of efforts to advance the country’s Digital Switch-Over (DSO) programme and expand access to digital broadcasting services.

    While the platform promises wider access to entertainment and information without subscription fees, the launch has triggered public debate, with many Nigerians questioning how practical the service will be amid ongoing electricity challenges across the country.

    NBC Unveils Nationwide Digital Platform

    The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) announced that FreeTV will be delivered through satellite, terrestrial transmission and a dedicated mobile application.

    According to the commission, the platform is designed to improve picture quality, increase local content distribution and extend coverage to rural and underserved communities.

    Households with compatible DVB-T2 or DVB-S2 decoders can access the service, while some existing free-to-air setups may not require new equipment.

    Government Links Project to Digital Inclusion Agenda

    The Federal Government described the rollout as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at expanding digital access, supporting the creative industry and creating employment opportunities.

    NBC Director-General, Charles Ebuebu, said the platform would benefit both consumers and content creators.

    “With FreeTV, families across Nigeria can enjoy quality digital television without a monthly subscription, while our local content producers, technicians, and young creatives gain new platforms and new jobs,” he said.

    The government also noted plans to establish regional studios in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, Kano and Benin to boost local production capacity.

    Digital Switch-Over Enters New Phase

    The launch marks another major step in Nigeria’s long-delayed Digital Switch-Over programme, which seeks to fully replace analogue broadcasting by December 31, 2028.

    Officials say the platform will also feature indigenous language channels, educational programming and improved access to information for remote communities.

    Nigerians Raise Concerns Over Power Supply

    Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the rollout, many Nigerians have raised concerns about the country’s unreliable electricity supply, which they say could limit the effectiveness of the service.

    Some citizens welcomed the idea of free television access, describing it as a relief from rising subscription costs. Others, however, argued that without stable power and strong signal coverage, the impact of FreeTV may remain limited in many households.

    The discussion has continued online, with Nigerians weighing the benefits of the platform against broader infrastructural challenges.

  • Makinde Promises Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren as VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has vowed to do everything possible to secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area, declaring that he would be willing to sacrifice himself if it would guarantee their freedom.

    The governor made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing popular social commentator and activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and hundreds of protesters who marched to the Oyo State Government House in Ibadan over the abduction.

    Makinde Assures Families of Victims

    Makinde said the state government had committed significant resources and mobilised all available security structures to ensure the victims are rescued.

    “Those children and their teachers will be brought back. Let me make it very clear: Oyo State is not Chibok, and it will never become Chibok. We have committed significant resources and deployed all available efforts to ensure their rescue,” he said.

    The governor noted that security personnel involved in the rescue efforts had continued to make sacrifices and assured residents that the government remained fully committed to bringing the victims home safely.

    Governor Speaks as a Parent

    Speaking on the emotional toll of the incident, Makinde said he understood the pain of the affected families because he is also a parent.

    “This is our reality now. I am also distressed with what is happening to our children after one month because I have children of my own too,” he said.

    He described the situation as particularly troubling because many of the victims were nursery school pupils.

    “This is the first time such a situation is happening, especially affecting nursery pupils who cannot even run or take care of themselves. I assure you that as the governor, we will rescue them.”

    ‘I Will Sacrifice Myself If Necessary’

    The governor further stressed his commitment to securing the victims’ freedom, saying no sacrifice would be too great if it meant bringing them back safely.

    “If you ask me whether I can sacrifice myself for those children to regain their freedom, I will do it. I have lived a good life, and nothing is more important than bringing those innocent children and their teachers back safely,” Makinde stated.

    His remarks came amid growing public concern over the abduction and increasing calls for urgent action from authorities.

    Governor Acknowledges Security Challenges

    Makinde said security had remained one of the priorities of his administration since he assumed office.

    He recalled establishing the state-backed security outfit, Amotekun, but admitted that the corps was yet to be adequately armed.

    “When I came in as governor, security was one of the cardinal principles of this administration and that’s why we set up Amotekun, but Amotekun has not been armed adequately. That is our reality now,” he said.

    VDM Leads Protest in Ibadan

    Earlier today, VeryDarkMan led members of the Ratel Movement and other supporters in a peaceful protest through major parts of Ibadan.

    The protesters gathered under the Iwo Road bridge before marching through the city with placards demanding the immediate rescue of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    Addressing demonstrators, VDM urged both the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and strengthen security measures across the country.

    He said the protest was aimed at ensuring the plight of the victims and their families remained in public focus while drawing national attention to the growing security concerns affecting schools.

    The demonstration attracted widespread attention from residents as protesters chanted solidarity songs and called for urgent intervention from authorities.

  • Troops Launch ‘Operation Clean Sweep III’ in Katsina After Death of Retired General Rabe Abubakar

    The Defence Headquarters has launched a major military offensive in Katsina State following the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, who was abducted alongside his wife by suspected bandits.

    The operation, codenamed “Operation Clean Sweep III,” began on Sunday, June 14, under the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, and is targeted at dismantling terrorist and bandit networks operating in parts of the state.

    Military Intensifies Offensive

    According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the operation is focused on tracking down those responsible for the abduction and death of the retired military officer.

    The military said troops have been deployed to conduct intensive fighting patrols, intelligence-led raids, cordon-and-search operations, and clearance missions across identified criminal hideouts.

    Major targets include the Dikkawa Hills and nearby communities such as Adua, Nasarawa and Karaduwa, where several suspected terrorist camps and logistics bases have reportedly been destroyed.

    General’s Death Triggers Fresh Action

    Major General Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, was kidnapped with his wife on May 30, 2026.

    His death in captivity drew widespread condemnation across the country and renewed concerns over insecurity in the North-West.

    The military said the latest operation is part of efforts to restore security in affected communities and ensure those behind the crime are brought to justice.

    Residents Asked to Support Security Agencies

    Operation Fansan Yamma urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence.

    The military assured citizens that all information shared would be treated confidentially and pledged to sustain pressure on criminal groups until the operation’s objectives are achieved.

    Troops Repel Terrorist Attack in Borno

    In a separate development, troops of the 3 Battalion under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled a coordinated attack by ISWAP and JAS fighters on a military position in Ngala Local Government Area of Borno State.

    The attack, which occurred in the early hours of June 12, was foiled after troops responded with sustained firepower supported by mortar and artillery units.

    The military said one soldier sustained injuries and is receiving treatment, while several items, including unexploded RPG-7 ordnance, were recovered from the scene.

  • IMF Says Tinubu’s Reforms Improved Economy as Poverty Rate Climbs to 63%

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu have strengthened Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook, while warning that poverty and food insecurity remain major challenges across the country.

    In a statement released on Tuesday following its annual review of Nigeria’s economy, the IMF noted that reforms implemented over the past three years have improved economic resilience but have yet to ease hardship for millions of Nigerians.

    IMF Commends Economic Reforms

    Since assuming office in 2023, Tinubu’s administration has implemented several economic measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate liberalisation, and tax reforms.

    According to the IMF, these policies have contributed to stronger macroeconomic performance and improved economic stability.

    “Strong reforms over the past three years have yielded improved macroeconomic outcomes and built resilience,” the organisation stated.

    Poverty and Food Insecurity Remain High

    Despite the economic gains, the IMF said living conditions remain difficult for a large segment of the population.

    The organisation reported that poverty reached 63 percent of the population by the end of 2025, while an estimated 27 million Nigerians experienced food insecurity during the same period.

    “Still, conditions for many Nigerians remain difficult. Poverty reached 63 percent (national poverty line) and 27 million Nigerians are estimated to have faced food insecurity in the fall of 2025,” the statement added.

    The IMF’s assessment aligns with previous findings by the World Bank, which reported that poverty levels in Nigeria have steadily increased over recent years.

    Security Challenges Threaten Economic Progress

    The IMF also identified insecurity as a major risk to economic growth, particularly in northern Nigeria, where much of the country’s agricultural production takes place.

    According to the organisation, ongoing attacks by armed groups continue to disrupt economic activities and food production.

    The IMF warned that rising costs of food, fertiliser and fuel could worsen inflationary pressures and deepen hardship for vulnerable households.

    Growth Forecast Remains Positive

    Despite the challenges, the IMF projected that Nigeria’s economy would grow by 4.1 percent in 2026, following an estimated growth rate of four percent in 2025.

    The organisation noted that higher global commodity prices could increase government revenues due to Nigeria’s status as Africa’s largest oil producer.

    However, it cautioned that the same factors could push up living costs and further strain household incomes.

    The IMF’s report comes as political activities begin to intensify ahead of Nigeria’s next general election, where President Tinubu is expected to seek a second term in office.

  • Gumi Defends Ibadan Visit, Dismisses Claims of Islamisation Agenda

    Popular Islamic cleric, Ahmad Gumi, has defended his visit to Ibadan last year, dismissing allegations that he was attempting to promote an Islamisation agenda in Oyo State.

    Gumi made the clarification in a Facebook post on Tuesday, insisting that his trip to the South-West was not at the invitation of any Muslim organisation or individual in the region.

    Gumi Explains Purpose of Visit

    According to the cleric, he attended the event in Ibadan as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama and not on behalf of any local group.

    He questioned attempts to politicise his visit and maintained that every Nigerian has the right to travel freely across the country.

    “I was in Ibadan not at the invitation of any South-West Muslim individual or group, but as a representative of the Coalition of Northern Muslim Ulama,” he stated.

    “Can anybody stop me from going anywhere in Nigeria?”

    Gumi added that the controversy surrounding his visit made him realise the extent to which, in his view, Islamophobia influences political discourse in parts of the South-West.

    Comments Follow Kidnap Victim’s Video

    His remarks came shortly after a video surfaced showing one of the victims abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State disputing reports that the kidnappers demanded the introduction of Sharia law as a condition for their release.

    The victim, Mrs. Rachael Alamu, principal of Community High School, Esiele, said the abductors were not demanding Sharia law or a N1 billion ransom.

    According to her, the kidnappers were seeking the release of some of their associates currently in government custody.

    MURIC Rejects Sharia Claims

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) also rejected reports linking the kidnappers to demands for Sharia law.

    In a statement issued on Monday, the group described the allegation as false and argued that the claim was designed to portray Islam negatively.

    Background to Ibadan Visit

    Gumi visited Ibadan on November 19, 2025, as a guest speaker at the Southern Nigerian Ulama Summit held at the University of Ibadan.

    During the visit, he also participated in a meeting attended by Muslim scholars from northern and southern Nigeria.

    The visit generated public debate at the time, with some critics questioning its purpose, while supporters described it as a routine religious engagement aimed at fostering dialogue among Islamic scholars.

  • Residents of Ngoshe Recount Three Months in Terrorist Captivity, Say They Survived on Guinea Corn

    Freed residents of Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State have shared disturbing accounts of their three-month captivity in the hands of terrorists, describing starvation, deaths and inhumane conditions during their ordeal.

    The victims, who were recently reunited with their families, were among hundreds abducted during a March 2026 attack on the community.

    Survivors Describe Harsh Living Conditions

    One of the survivors, Halima Musa, said the captives survived mainly on guinea corn, which was provided by their abductors but cooked by the victims themselves.

    She explained that food was limited to once a day, leaving them to endure long hours of hunger.

    “We ate only guinea corn, once a day. If you ate around 2 p.m., you would have to wait until the next day before eating again. Sometimes, there was no soup,” she said.

    According to her, the captives slept on bare floors in mountainous terrain and had limited access to water throughout their captivity.

    Children Died During Captivity

    Another freed captive disclosed that at least six children died while in captivity due to illness and poor living conditions.

    “While in captivity, we lost six children — two boys and four girls. They died after falling sick,” she said.

    Some of the victims also alleged that their abductors had a system of food distribution, suggesting possible supply networks supporting the group across different locations.

    One source said they observed food being dropped and redistributed, raising suspicions about organised logistics behind the terrorists’ operations.

    Mass Abduction and Release

    Recall that about 360 people were abducted during the attack on Ngoshe on March 4, 2026, with women and children making up the majority of the victims.

    Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum confirmed that a total of 357 captives were recently released, while others had regained freedom in smaller batches over time.

    According to the governor, the total number of those freed now stands at 434, following coordinated efforts involving security agencies and local vigilante groups.

    Government and Security Response

    Zulum commended President Bola Tinubu, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Civilian Joint Task Force, forest guards, vigilantes and hunters for their roles in securing the victims’ release.

    He also announced plans for the rehabilitation of Ngoshe community and support for displaced residents, including food and medical assistance for those recently freed.

    The victims are currently undergoing medical evaluation and psychosocial support before being fully reintegrated into their communities.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Borno State, where communities continue to face repeated attacks despite ongoing military operations.

  • INEC Registration Centres Hit by Network Glitches as PVC Applicants Face Delays

    Many Nigerians seeking to register for Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) or complete voter registration processes were left stranded on Monday following network disruptions at several offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The situation reportedly affected registration activities in multiple locations, forcing applicants to wait for hours without being attended to.

    Applicants Lament Delays

    A viral video circulating on social media showed large crowds gathered outside an INEC office, with many applicants sitting on staircases and pavements while waiting for the registration system to come back online.

    Some of those affected said they had visited the registration centre on previous occasions but were unable to complete the process due to similar technical issues.

    Several applicants expressed frustration over the repeated delays, saying they had spent valuable time and resources travelling to the centres without success.

    Citizens Express Frustration

    In the video, some applicants questioned why registration activities could not proceed despite the growing demand for PVCs ahead of future elections.

    Others appealed to INEC to improve its infrastructure and address the recurring challenges affecting voter registration.

    The incident generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians criticising the disruption and calling for a more efficient registration process.

    Concerns Ahead of Future Elections

    The development has renewed concerns about the readiness of electoral infrastructure to support voter registration and other election-related activities.

    Some social media users alleged that the persistent network issues could discourage eligible voters from registering, while others called for urgent intervention to prevent further disruptions.

    As of the time of filing this report, INEC had not issued an official statement regarding the reported network failures.

    Calls for Improved Service Delivery

    The latest disruption has added to ongoing conversations about the need for improved digital infrastructure and service delivery within the electoral process.

    Despite the setbacks, many Nigerians have continued to express determination to obtain their PVCs and participate in future elections.

  • Motorist Challenges Civilian Working With Police at Checkpoint, Video Draws Reactions

    A video showing a motorist confronting a civilian assisting police officers at a roadside checkpoint has generated widespread reactions on social media.

    The incident, which was captured in a now-viral clip, highlights growing concerns among Nigerians about the presence of unidentified civilians at security checkpoints.

    Motorist Demands Identification

    In the video, the motorist repeatedly questioned a man dressed in Ankara attire who was helping to stop vehicles alongside uniformed police officers.

    The civilian, who was seen holding a wooden stick, reportedly claimed that his identification card was with the police officers at the checkpoint but failed to produce any form of identification during the exchange.

    The motorist insisted on knowing the man’s authority to stop motorists, attracting the attention of bystanders who gathered around the scene.

    Video Triggers Online Debate

    The incident quickly gained attention online, with many social media users praising the motorist for challenging what they described as the involvement of unofficial personnel in police operations.

    Several commenters identified such individuals as “camp boys,” a term often used to describe civilians who allegedly assist security personnel at checkpoints.

    Some users claimed they had witnessed similar situations on major roads across the country, expressing concerns about accountability and transparency during roadside checks.

    Concerns Over Checkpoint Operations

    The video has also renewed discussions about the role of civilians in law enforcement activities and the need for proper identification of anyone involved in security operations.

    Critics argued that the presence of unidentified individuals at checkpoints could create opportunities for abuse and undermine public confidence in security agencies.

    Others stressed the importance of citizens knowing their rights and seeking clarification when approached by persons whose official status is unclear.

    Calls for Greater Accountability

    The incident has further fuelled conversations about police reform and checkpoint practices in Nigeria.

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

    The clip continues to attract reactions online, with many Nigerians calling for stricter enforcement of rules governing checkpoint operations and the activities of individuals working alongside security personnel.