ABUJA — The Federal Government has commenced a massive new phase of terrorism trials involving more than 600 suspects, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on insurgency and threats to national security. Speaking to THENEWSCREDIT in Abuja on Monday at the launch of the judicial exercise, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, declared that the administration would deploy every available resource to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians. Massive Docket Cleared for Trial The current exercise marks the fourth phase of mass terrorism trials undertaken since the inception of the current administration. Providing a statistical breakdown of the suspects currently appearing before the court, the AGF disclosed that nearly 600 individuals are scheduled for appearance in the coming days.490 suspects scheduled for day one hearings.84 suspects billed for the following day.102 suspects carried forward from the previous judicial phase. Fagbemi confirmed that presiding judges have given firm assurances to expedite the hearings and clear the extensive docket within the scheduled period. Uncompromising Stance on Security The Chief Law Officer of the Federation emphasized that the ongoing proceedings underscore the government’s resolve to tackle insecurity head-on, warning that criminal elements will find no hiding place within the country. "The message is clear, direct and straightforward. It is that the present administration is not taking the issue of terrorism with levity. And that is why you see ongoing trials," Fagbemi stated. He added: "Since the inception of this administration, this is about the fourth phase that we are undertaking. So the message is that let everybody know that terrorism in whatever form or shape will not be tolerated. We will fight with every inch of our blood to ensure that we make Nigeria a safe haven for everybody." Broader Anti-Terror Strategy The mass trial is part of a coordinated legal and security framework designed to prosecute individuals accused of terrorism, insurgency, and related offenses. Legal experts note that the speed and scale of these trials are critical to decongesting detention facilities while ensuring justice is served in line with international human rights standards. Government officials maintain that the judicial push forms a vital component of the state`s broader strategy to restore total peace and stability to regions heavily impacted by insecurity.

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions to promote peace, security, unity and sustainable development across the country. The position was conveyed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the 8th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council in Dutse, Jigawa State, according to a statement by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim. The President acknowledged the role of traditional rulers in governance, peacebuilding and community mobilisation, describing them as critical partners in advancing national development. “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fully recognises the strategic role of traditional institutions and remains committed to deepening engagement with traditional rulers in advancing peace, security, national cohesion, and development,” Idris said. The minister commended the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for its contributions to peace, security and development across Northern Nigeria. Speaking on the theme of the meeting, ‘Peace, Unity and Development of the North’, Idris said peace and unity remain essential for progress and prosperity. “Without peace, development becomes difficult; without unity, progress cannot be sustained. The pursuit of both must remain our collective responsibility,” he stated. The minister noted that traditional rulers remain important stakeholders because of their close relationship with communities and their ability to mobilise citizens around national objectives. On security, Idris said the Federal Government had continued to strengthen coordination among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and other security institutions, resulting in gains against criminal and terrorist groups in different parts of the country. “While challenges remain, the administration is sustaining military operations, improving intelligence gathering, and enhancing inter-agency collaboration,” he said. He added that the government was also addressing issues such as poverty, unemployment, social exclusion and limited economic opportunities, which he said contribute to insecurity. The minister highlighted ongoing government initiatives in agriculture, livestock development, solid minerals, infrastructure, education financing, consumer credit and support for small businesses. He described the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as a strategic intervention aimed at modernising livestock production, improving productivity and reducing conflicts linked to competition for natural resources. Idris also cited the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Calabar-Abuja Super Highway and the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Road Corridor as major infrastructure projects designed to boost economic growth and national integration. The minister further stressed the role of traditional rulers in promoting public awareness and combating misinformation, noting that development programmes are more effective when citizens understand and participate in them. “In an age characterised by the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, traditional rulers remain among the most trusted leaders in our society,” he said. He expressed confidence that the meeting would produce recommendations capable of strengthening peace, unity and development across Northern Nigeria and the country. Idris also extended condolences to the government and people of Katsina State over the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, describing his passing as a loss to the nation. The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, government officials and other stakeholders from across Northern Nigeria.

The Oyo State Government has officially announced Tuesday, 16th June, 2026, as a work-free day across the state to mark the commencement of the new Islamic calendar year, Hijrah 1448AH. The announcement was made via an official press release issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade. According to the statement, the public holiday is a demonstration of the state government’s deep respect for the religious heritage of its Muslim citizens and an acknowledgment of the profound historical significance of the Hijrah. Reflecting on the history of the event, Prince Oyelade noted that the Hijrah commemorates the sacred migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD, an milestone that laid the foundation for the global Islamic community. He emphasized that the holiday serves as a meaningful gesture of solidarity with Muslims during this season of spiritual renewal. The Commissioner further used the opportunity to call on all citizens of Oyo State—regardless of faith—to dedicate the holiday to introspection and prayer. He urged residents to pray fervently for the continuous peace, progress, and economic prosperity of Oyo State and Nigeria at large. "The essence of the Hijrah centers on reflection, unity, and communal harmony," Oyelade remarked. He encouraged everyone to embrace the core values of the season by fostering brotherhood and working collectively toward the betterment of the nation.

Edo North lawmaker, Senator, Adams Oshiomhole has revealed that President Bola Tinubu had during the last administration, relocated from Nigeria to avoid humiliation arising from some policies of Late President Muhammadu Buhari. Speaking on Sunday during an interview on The Mic On Podcast, Oshiomhole also said that Tinubu was shut out by the immediate past administration. According to him, Tinubu, who was then the national leader of the All Progressives Congress was not comfortable with some policies and choice of appointments in the past administration. He said, “Tinubu stood with Buhari even when he was ignored. Tinubu relocated so that he can be free from humiliation raising from either choice of policy, appointment of people and some of the decisions that Buhari was taking. “Remember that the first pronouncement of Buhari was that I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody”. Reports had indicated that Tinubu spent more time in France during Buhari’s government.

Heavily armed bandits dressed in military camouflage have launched consecutive attacks along the Igbeti-Kishi and Igbeti-Igboho axes in Oyo State, leaving one person dead and four others severely injured. The violent siege, which began on Friday, June 12, 2026, and extended into Saturday, has triggered widespread panic across local communities and prompted an emergency security visit by the state’s Deputy Governor. Friday Ambush Ends in Fatality The first assault occurred on Friday along the Kishi-Igbeti road. Armed men emerged from the dense forest and opened fire on a passing vehicle. The vehicle was returning from picking up a Muslim pilgrim who had just completed the 2026 Hajj exercise. Mr. Kayode, an electricity distribution worker travelling in the vehicle, was shot dead on the spot. Saturday Highway Ambush Leaves Four Critically Injured The violence escalated on Saturday afternoon along the Igbope-Igbeti section of the highway. Bandits wearing military-style uniforms set up an ambush targeting a red Volkswagen Golf saloon car and a commercial passenger bus. The gunmen opened fire on the vehicles, inflicting serious gunshot wounds on four occupants of the Volkswagen Golf. Among the critically injured victims were the driver, Alhaji Rafiu Jimoh, and Mr. Jubril Jelili. The victims managed to escape the scene and drive back to Igboho, where they are currently receiving emergency medical treatment. Deputy Governor Visits as Residents Cry Out for Help Following the weekend of violence, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State visited Kishi to assess the worsening security situation in Kishi, Igboho, and surrounding communities. Local residents are demanding immediate and sustained tactical deployments of the military and police. Terrified community members stated that the vast terrain of the Old Oyo National Park, located between Kishi and Igbeti, has been completely overtaken by criminal elements who use it as an operational base. Forest Reserves Become Kidnapping Havens The situation in the area remains highly critical:Schoolchildren and teachers recently abducted from the Oriire Local Government Area are currently being held hostage deep within the Old Oyo National Park.The vast forest terrain allows bandits to launch highway ambushes and retreat into cover with total impunity. Government Interventions Overshadowed by Rising Crime The latest attacks highlight a frustrating gap in local security despite recent counter-terrorism investments by the Oyo State Government. The state government previously procured a specialized aircraft for aerial surveillance and aggressively recruited personnel into the Amotekun Corps to maintain peace. The Deputy Governor had also held emergency meetings urging local government council chairmen in the Oke-Ogun zone to collaborate closely with state machinery to frustrate terrorist plots. Despite these measures, residents lament that incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry continue to surge, leaving commuter routes highly vulnerable.

Christians have been urged to embrace the fruits of divine covenant, humility, and undeserved grace to navigate life’s barren seasons and reclaim their spiritual inheritances. Bishop Akintayo Asamu, the Pastor in Charge of BRAVE 91.1FM International Temple of Christ, gave this charge during the church’s impactful Sunday Service on June 14, 2026. Delivering a powerful sermon titled "FRUITS: A CASE STUDY OF MEPHIBOSHETH," Bishop Asamu drew his anchor text from 2 Samuel 9:1–13, unpacking the profound narrative of how King David restored Jonathan’s lame son from obscurity to royalty. From Isolation to the King`s Table Addressing the congregation, Bishop Asamu explained that Mephibosheth’s journey from the barren land of Lo-debar to Jerusalem is a vivid illustration of God`s unmerited favor. He noted that like Mephibosheth, many individuals suffer from generational setbacks and limitations through no fault of their own. "Mephibosheth did not earn a seat at the palace because of his physical ability or strength," the Bishop declared. "He was remembered, sought after, and elevated purely because of a pre-existing covenant between David and Jonathan. In the same way, the ultimate fruit of our faith is anchored on the unconditional covenant of grace provided through Jesus Christ." Expatiating on the theme, the cleric noted that human limitations cannot stop divine promises. "Mephibosheth’s lameness at age five was an accident of life, but accidents cannot abort a divine covenant. Your current limitations or past brokenness do not disqualify you from the King’s agenda," he said. The Power of the Covenant Covering The cleric further challenged believers to bear the spiritual fruits of humility and contentment, especially during times of trial and false accusation. Referring to the broader biblical narrative, Bishop Asamu highlighted how Mephibosheth remained steadfast and loyal to King David, even when his servant Ziba slandered his name. "The true test of your fruitfulness is your posture when God elevates you, and your loyalty when your character is tested," the Bishop added, urging the flock to guard their hearts against bitterness and greed. "When Mephibosheth sat at the king’s table, the tablecloth covered his crippled feet. Under the covenant of grace, your flaws are covered by His mercy, while you enjoy the royal inheritance." He reassured the congregation that their current struggles are temporary, stating, "Lo-debar means a place of no pasture, a place of silence. Some of you have been silenced by stagnation, debt, or delay. But the same God who sent a chariot to fetch Mephibosheth is sending a divine visitation to your address this week." Prophetic Declarations The service, which broadcasted to a global audience via the BRAVE 91.1FM networks, climaxed with a profound session of prophetic declarations and prayers. Bishop Asamu prayed for the breaking of generational barriers, the restoration of lost possessions, and divine elevation for all participants. Releasing apostolic blessings, Bishop Asamu decreed: "I decree by the apostolic authority of heaven, every righteous covenant made by your lineage that has been forgotten by men is reactivated today. God will bypass protocols to locate you! Every ancestral land, stolen blessing, and delayed inheritance swallowed by the enemy is vomited right now! Receive a seven-fold restoration in Jesus` name." Worshipers left the sanctuary highly energized, expressing renewed faith in God’s covenant promises to lift them from their personal "Lo-debars" and seat them at tables of honor.

The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has said the ongoing conflicts involving Israel, Iran, the United States, Russia and Ukraine are making it increasingly difficult for Nigeria and other countries to procure military equipment needed to tackle insecurity. The minister also lamented the absence of a comprehensive national database, saying it was hindering the efforts of security agencies, particularly the police, in tracking criminals and preventing crimes. Musa stated this on Saturday while delivering a keynote address at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference and Defence Exhibition 2026 in Abuja. Speaking on challenges confronting the country’s security architecture, he said global conflicts had disrupted access to military hardware, making it imperative for Nigeria to strengthen local defence production. “With the war in Ukraine, Russia, Iran, the U.S. and Israel, it’s been extremely difficult getting equipment. Because most times they do down payment because they have the money and they produce most of these items. So even when you go to get, they have booked for them, and so it’s difficult. “The only solution is for us to produce what we need,” he said. He commended indigenous defence manufacturers and innovators, urging greater government support and patronage for locally produced military equipment. The minister also appealed to the National Assembly to support the creation of a comprehensive database for Nigerians, describing it as critical to effective policing and national security. “I want to also appeal to the National Assembly on the issue of a database. We must develop a database for every Nigerian in the world. There is a capacity to do that. “It is only with that that it will make the job a lot easier for security forces. The Nigerian police is struggling because they don’t have a database to track and trace,” he said. Musa, however, praised the police for their performance despite operational challenges. “I commend them because I think they are performing magic. Some of the crimes they’re able to bring out, I can tell you it’s extremely difficult without a database,” he said. The minister stressed that security agencies could not effectively combat crime without timely intelligence from citizens, warning against public indifference to criminal activities within communities. “Security agencies are not magicians. If they don’t get the support and information at the right time, it becomes extremely difficult to curtail it,” he stated. He cited incidents involving the vandalism of public infrastructure, including roads, rail facilities and solar-powered street lights, noting that such crimes often occurred because residents failed to report suspicious activities. Musa also urged state governors to ensure that increased federal allocations translated into meaningful development at the grassroots, arguing that poverty, unemployment and illiteracy remained key drivers of insecurity. “The tendency is now to throw everything at the federal. And I can tell you, Mr President is doing so well because if you look at the amount of money being released monthly to the governors, it is important for us to be able to make sure that these things get down to the people so that we can stop issues of poverty and illiteracy,” he said. The minister further advocated the proper regulation of the Civilian Joint Task Force and other community-based security outfits, warning that arming unvetted groups could worsen insecurity. Also speaking, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, said the National Assembly would continue to support security agencies through legislation, oversight and funding. He, however, stressed that military operations alone could not solve Nigeria’s security challenges. The deputy speaker disclosed that local government reforms remained a priority in the ongoing constitutional amendment process and urged support for the State Police Bill, which recently passed the House of Representatives.

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has suggested that only God can ultimately bring an end to Nigeria’s security challenges. Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a national challenge that requires cooperation from all Nigerians, urging citizens to support security agencies and pray for peace. He warned politicians against exploiting security challenges for political gain, saying insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation or religion. “It’s disheartening, and we must all rise to ensure that security agencies and Nigerians work together to end insecurity in the country. Insecurity does not discriminate based on political affiliation or religion. It can affect anyone. “That is why we have urged the opposition to stop using insecurity to incite people. It is a challenge that can happen to anyone, and no Nigerian is happy about it. Unfortunately, some members of the opposition appear pleased with the situation. “They do not care about the people. What matters to them is portraying the government as a failure for their own political interests and deceiving people into believing they alone can end insecurity. “It is only God that can bring to an end to this insecurity, alongside our collective prayers and efforts. It should not be used as a tool to condemn others or score political points” he said. According to the minister, some opposition figures have used insecurity to criticize the government, rather than supporting efforts to address the challenge. Matawalle also alleged that old and misleading videos are being circulated on social media to portray the administration of President Bola Tinubu as failing in its efforts to tackle insecurity. He said some of the videos being shared online were recorded during previous administrations or in other countries, including Burkina Faso and Mali, but are being presented as recent incidents in Nigeria. The minister maintained that security operatives are working tirelessly across the country to combat terrorism and other forms of criminality, adding that insecurity is a global challenge that cannot be eliminated overnight. Matawalle appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and praying for the restoration of peace across the country. His comments come amid renewed security concerns following recent attacks and abductions in parts of Nigeria, including Oyo and Borno states.

The Nigerian creative industry and academic community have been thrown into deep mourning following the passing of legendary actor, dramatist, and academic, Professor Kola Oyewo, who died at the age of 80. The news of his demise has sparked a wave of tributes across the nation, celebrating a man who seamlessly bridged the gap between the glamour of Nollywood, the tradition of Yoruba traveling theatre, and the intellectual rigor of university classrooms. Born in 1946 in Oba Ile, Osun State, Dr. Oyewo launched his professional acting career in 1964 with the historic Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group. Over more than 50 years, his artistic brilliance captured the hearts of millions of viewers. He gained widespread acclaim for his iconic performance as `Odewale` in Chief Ola Rotimi’s timeless masterpiece, The Gods Are Not to Blame. He went on to star in iconic foundational cinema hits and television classics, including Tunde Kelani`s Saworoide, Oleku, Koseegbe, and Wale Adenuga’s Super Story. Oyewo dedicated his lifetime to preserving, elevating, and projecting the deep traditions of Yoruba and Nigerian storytelling to international audiences. Unlike many of his peers, Professor Oyewo expanded his love for the arts into higher education. He pursued rigorous studies at the University of Ibadan, where he earned both a Master of Arts and a Ph.D. in Drama. In 1996, he officially joined the academic staff of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, mentoring countless students before retiring as a Senior Lecturer in 2011. Refusing to completely rest after retirement, he went on to head the Dramatic Arts Department at Redeemer`s University and later shared his immense wealth of knowledge as a performing arts lecturer at Elizade University. Colleagues, former students, and cultural stakeholders have described his death as the end of an irreplaceable era. He leaves behind an immortal legacy of discipline, creative excellence, and scholarly advancement that will influence generations of performers to come. As the stage lights go dim for this titan, Nigeria has undeniably lost a master storyteller, academia has lost a phenomenal teacher, and the entertainment world has lost a living institution.

LAGOS — In an unprecedented move that has delighted football fans worldwide, football`s global governing body, FIFA, has officially honored former Super Eagles captain Austin "Jay-Jay" Okocha with a retroactive Superior Player of the Match award. The special accolade recognizes his breathtaking performance during Nigeria’s iconic 3-2 group-stage victory over Spain at the 1998 World Cup in France. The presentation comes as part of a celebratory retrospective initiative by FIFA, in collaboration with Copa90, designed to formally recognize legendary individual World Cup performances that took place before the official, modern "Man of the Match" awards were formalized in 2002. Unveiling a Timeless Honor The 52-year-old midfield maestro took to his social media to share a viral video of himself unboxing the elegant silver trophy from a custom case. Beaming with pride, Okocha expressed his deep gratitude to the football world."I’m about to unveil this special award being given to me by FIFA," Okocha stated in the clip. "It was given to me for winning the Superior Man of the Match in a World Cup game, Nigeria versus Spain, 1998. I feel so honored to receive it." The Night Nantes Witnessed Magic The legendary encounter took place on June 13, 1998, at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. Facing a star-studded Spanish side heavily favored to lift the trophy, the Super Eagles orchestrated one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. While Sunday Oliseh`s thunderous 25-yard game-winning rocket remains the most replayed image of that match, it was Okocha who pulled the strings in midfield. His trademark audacious dribbling, deceptive body feints, and effortless creativity completely dismantled the Spanish tactical setup, pulling Nigeria back from behind twice to secure the 3-2 victory. The Undisputed King of Dribbling The timing of the retroactive award perfectly aligns with historical data reviews released by FIFA, which confirmed that Okocha still holds the all-time official World Cup record for the most successful dribbles in a single match. During Nigeria`s intense 1994 Round of 16 clash against Italy, a 21-year-old Okocha completed an astonishing 15 successful dribbles against a defensive line featuring legends Paolo Maldini and Alessandro Costacurta—a feat that remains untouched in football history. Decades after hanging up his boots, this late coronation cements Okocha not just as a Nigerian hero, but as an immortal artist of the global game.