NDLEA intercepts over 9 tonnes of illicit drugs, arrests 260 at Lagos airport

 

In a massive crackdown on narcotics at Nigeria’s busiest aviation gateway, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport Strategic Command in Ikeja has intercepted 9,058.543 kilograms of illicit drugs and apprehended 260 suspects from 2025 to date.

Command Commander, Mohammad Ahmad disclosed these figures on Friday, noting that the agency also successfully secured the conviction of 101 offenders during this period.

The announcement coincided with the command’s commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed globally every June 26 since its establishment by the United Nations in 1989. This year’s event was held under the theme “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” focusing heavily on strengthening international cooperation to combat trafficking and address emerging challenges.

 

Ahmad attributed these significant achievements to the consistent application of innovative drug law enforcement strategies designed to safeguard the nation from the perils of trafficking.

He emphasized that the results reflect the command’s dedication but stressed the need for sustained collaboration among government agencies, local communities, and key stakeholders to effectively manage the illicit trade flowing through the airport.

This call for unified action was echoed by retired Assistant Commander-General of Narcotics Ibiba Odili, who urged Nigerians to actively support anti-drug campaigns, framing collective action as a vital shield against the rising threat of substance abuse.

Additionally, event participants like Chibuzor Osakwe highlighted the critical need for continuous public enlightenment, specifically targeting the youth who remain highly vulnerable to drug abuse.

The robust numbers coming out of the Lagos airport command align with a broader, high-intensity offensive by NDLEA against major drug syndicates, suppliers, and kingpins nationwide. Newsscroll.

Tinubu appoints Namdas BCDA DG, names Obahiagbon and reappoints Umeoji at NDPHC

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Abdulrazak Sa’ad Namdas as the new Director General of the Border Communities Development Agency, BCDA. The appointment was contained in a press release signed on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Namdas takes over from Dr. Dakorinama Alabo George, who resigned to contest for an elective post in his home state. The change is effective immediately, according to the Presidency.
A former member of the House of Representatives for Ganye/Jada/Mayo Belwa/Toungo Federal Constituency in Adamawa State, Namdas served as spokesperson of the 8th House of Representatives. He was also an aspirant in the just-concluded Adamawa State governorship primary election.
Described as a seasoned journalist and public relations practitioner, Namdas previously served as Chief Press Secretary to former Governor Boni Haruna of Adamawa State. The Presidency said his background will support BCDA’s mandate in border communities.
In a related move, President Tinubu appointed Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon as Executive Director, Strategy and Commercial, of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, NDPHC. He replaces Engineer Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, who resigned to pursue political aspirations in his home state.
Obahiagbon has served in both the Edo State House of Assembly and the National Assembly. His appointment is also effective immediately.
President Tinubu also reappointed Mr. Chukwuma Umeoji as Executive Director, Corporate Services, of NDPHC. A former member of the House of Representatives for Aguata Federal Constituency, Anambra State, in the 9th National Assembly, Umeoji had resigned to pursue political ambitions in his home state before returning to the role.
The Presidency stated that all three appointments take effect immediately, as it moves to fill key vacancies and reinforce leadership in agencies focused on border development and power sector delivery.

Deregistration: NDC rejects Court order, heads to Appeal Court

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected Friday’s ruling of the Federal High Court in Lokoja setting aside its earlier registration, insisting that the party remains legally recognised and will immediately challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, the National Chairman of the party, Distinguished Senator Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe described the ruling as legally unsustainable and assured party members, supporters and candidates that the NDC had not been deregistered.
“The Peace Movement Party (PMP) is not a registered political party in Nigeria. They claimed in a motion (not even a substantive suit or appeal), that the court should set aside it’s earlier judgement on the purported ground that, in 2015, they had sought registration as  political party with the victory sign as their symbol and were denied.
“The court having delivered a final judgement in our suite against INEC, had become functus officio. The court had also dealt with all related issues concerning associations claiming they wanted to use the same symbol and colours. The court, in it’s judgement, overruled INEC when those issues were raised, and there is no appeal against that judgement” he said.
According to the chairman, the Federal High Court had, in December 2025, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the NDC after upholding its constitutional right to freedom of association.
It maintained that the Peace Movement Party ought to have appealed the original judgment if it was dissatisfied, arguing that attempting to overturn it through a motion after the appeal window had closed amounted to an abuse of court process.
“Our party is on course. The NDC has not been deregistered and we are challenging today’s order at the Court of Appeal as soon as possible,” he said.
He went further to report that the party has conducted ward, local government, state and national congresses, held its national convention, conducted primaries in line with the electoral timetable, participated in INEC activities and fielded candidates in recent by-elections.
He added that candidates had already been nominated for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, governorship, presidential and vice-presidential elections and were in the process of being formally submitted to INEC.
The NDC argued that the latest ruling merely set aside the court’s earlier judgment and did not expressly order the deregistration of the party.
“There was no order directing our deregistration. However, we are dissatisfied with the decision that has been made, and we have instructed our team of lawyers to immediately proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge the jurisdiction and propriety of His Lordship’s order”.
Responding to questions from journalists, the party’s National Secretary, Barr. Ikenna Morgan Enekweizu declined to disclose the lead counsel handling the appeal but said that court processes would be filed by Monday.
The legal representatives described the ruling as lacking legal precedent and expressed confidence that the appellate courts would overturn it.
“We have a strong conviction that the judiciary is still the last hope of the common man in Nigeria,” the legal adviser said. “The court that delivered the ruling is not the highest court in the land. We will pursue this matter to its ultimate conclusion.”
The party also dismissed suggestions that the ruling would affect its participation in the 2027 general elections, insisting that all its candidates would remain on the ballot.
The chairman assured supporters that preparations for the elections would continue uninterrupted, disclosing that immediately after the press conference he would proceed to INEC to obtain the party’s candidate-upload code.
He further alleged that the court action formed part of wider attempts to shrink Nigeria’s democratic space and weaken opposition parties, while urging Nigerians to continue supporting the NDC’s activities.
“We are firm, we are strong. Democracy must stand. There is no amount of intimidation that will stop us,” he said.
The NDC called on its members and candidates nationwide to remain calm while the legal challenge proceeds, expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal would overturn the ruling and affirm the party’s legal status.

Lokoja Court ruling on NDC: Remain focused, we’ll overcome – Obi tells supporters

 

 

Presidential Candidate of the NDC, Mr Peter Obi has urged his supporters to remain focused and committed despite Friday’s ruling by a Court in Lokoja, Kogi state on the legal status of the NDC.

In a statement on Friday, the Peter Obi Media Office said: “Our March to a New Nigeria Cannot Be Halted, a detour, yes, but destination is certain* -POMR

“Peter Obi Media Reach. POMR has been bombarded with calls from the newsrooms and other concerned persons on the strange court ruling from a High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State. Below are our initial responses to inquiries pending legal views on it.
​”We have received the news of today’s bizarre ruling from the court in Lokoja regarding the legal status of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

“While our legal teams are thoroughly reviewing the judgment to initiate immediate corrective and appellate measures, our Principal urges all our supporters, coalition partners, and patriots nationwide to remain absolutely calm and focused.

​”We always knew that the journey to dismantle a deeply entrenched and grossly underperforming political status quo would be met with fierce institutional resistance and unexpected legal detours.
“Today’s ruling is a hurdle, not a stop sign. Our commitment to providing a transparent, legitimate, and formidable alternative for Nigerians remains unshakeable.

“The platform we are building is robust, and our legal rights will be vigorously pursued. Do not be discouraged; the vehicle may face a temporary breakdown, but our destination remains non-negotiable.”

​
June 26, 2026

Senate passes Bill establishing State Police in Nigeria

 

The Senate has passed constitutional amendments to establish state police in Nigeria.

The bill was passed on Wednesday by the lawmakers following a clause-by-clause consideration of the provisions of the bill.

 

The Senate plenary was presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

As earlier reported, the Senate adopted manual voting for the consideration of the State Police Bill after the electronic voting device developed technical issues during plenary on Wednesday.

The decision followed concerns that some lawmakers could be disenfranchised if the chamber proceeded with the faulty device.

Under the manual voting arrangement, each senator had to stand up, announce his or her name, and openly state his or her position on the proposed bill for establishing state police.

 

President Bola Tinubu had earlier transmitted a constitution amendment bill seeking the establishment of state police to the Senate as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture.

The legislation seeks to amend relevant provisions of the 1999 Constitution to create a legal framework for the establishment of state police across the federation.

 

The move follows repeated calls by the president for constitutional reforms that would enable states to play a more active role in securing their territories.

Before the law becomes fully operational, it must also be approved by at least two-thirds of the 36 State Houses of Assembly, meaning a minimum of 24 states must pass it. Newspot.

Wike not for sale PDP tells APC, dismisses speculation over defection

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, remains a loyal member of the party, dismissing any suggestion that his role in the APC-led Federal Government could lead to a permanent political realignment.
The party made the clarification on Wednesday while reacting to recent remarks by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who praised Wike’s leadership and performance during the commissioning of a project in Abuja.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the PDP described the APC chairman’s commendation of the former Rivers State governor as a public acknowledgment of the quality of leadership and competence within the opposition party.
The PDP said the praise directed at Wike further demonstrated that the party remains home to some of Nigeria’s most accomplished and result-oriented political leaders.
While welcoming the recognition, the party stressed that Wike’s appointment and service in the current administration should not be interpreted as an indication of a possible defection to the ruling APC.
The party humorously likened Wike’s role in the Federal Government to a temporary loan arrangement, insisting that there was no provision for a permanent transfer.
“As Professor Yilwatda himself implied, Barrister Wike’s engagement with the APC-led administration is best described as a loan arrangement, and we wish to state unequivocally that the agreement contains no provision whatsoever for a permanent transfer deal,” the statement said.
The PDP maintained that it had no intention of relinquishing one of its most valuable political assets, regardless of any political overtures.
According to the party, Wike’s achievements in infrastructure development, urban renewal and governance reforms in the Federal Capital Territory have earned him commendation from Nigerians across political and social divides.
The opposition party argued that Wike’s performance as FCT Minister reflects the leadership capacity and administrative competence that the PDP has consistently produced over the years.
The party further stated that Wike’s influence, political relevance and ability to deliver tangible results have made him one of the most consequential figures in contemporary Nigerian politics.
It also asserted that the PDP possesses a deep reservoir of capable leaders and technocrats who, if given similar opportunities, would excel in public office and contribute significantly to national development.
The party used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to support the PDP in future elections, particularly in 2027, saying the country’s developmental aspirations would be better served by leaders with proven records of performance.
The party thanked the APC National Chairman for what it described as his generous recognition of Wike and, by extension, the enduring value of the party as a platform capable of providing credible leadership and practical solutions to Nigeria’s challenges. Authority.

Communication professional, Obari calls for renewed investment in Nigeria’s publishing industry

 

*At the presentation of Prof Ogboli’s White Guava and War

A leading communications professional has called for renewed investment in Nigeria’s publishing industry, warning that declining reading habits and weak distribution networks continue to threaten literary development across Nigeria and the African continent.

Reviewing White Guava and War, the autobiography of Nigerian academic, Professor Ashiedu Ogboli, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Joseph Ollor Obari urged governments, investors, educational institutions and cultural stakeholders to strengthen support for publishing as a cornerstone of intellectual and national development.

Published in 2026 by Ahmadu Bello University Press Ltd, White Guava and War chronicles Professor Ogboli’s life experiences while exploring broader themes of education, resilience, conflict, personal growth and nation-building. Another of author’s work, Readings in Art, Design and Culture was presented at the event.

Obari in his review, reflected on the decline of Nigeria’s once-vibrant publishing sector, noting that many prominent publishing houses struggled to survive the economic disruptions that followed Nigeria’s implementation of the World Bank’s Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) under the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida in the 1980s.

“For quite some time, all was not well in the world of publishing in Nigeria,” Obari said. “We lost not only publishing houses but also the structures that supported authorship and provided a dependable economic backbone for the intellectual property industry.”

He observed that the decline of traditional publishing institutions led many writers to embrace self-publishing, often without access to professional editorial support and structured distribution network.

“A writer is often not the best editor of his own work,” he noted. “Every author benefits from independent professional editors who can identify weaknesses, improve clarity and strengthen the overall quality of a manuscript.”

Obari identified book distribution and marketing as the most significant obstacles facing authors in Nigeria and many other developing markets.

“Without the networks and resources of established publishing houses, authors are frequently left to carry the burden of bringing their books to readers,” he said. “Even outstanding literary works can struggle to find their audience.”

While welcoming signs of renewed growth within Nigeria’s publishing ecosystem, Obari appealed for greater private-sector investment in the book industry.

“There should be a collective effort to restore publishing to the place it deserves in society,” he said. “Books remain among humanity’s most powerful tools for developing minds, preserving knowledge and building nations.”

The reviewer was concerned that such digital culture impacts as shortened attention spans, increasing dependence on abbreviations and informal language have eroded sustained engagement with books and long-form writing.

Describing White Guava and War as a compelling autobiographical work, Obari said the book successfully combines humour, vivid description and intellectual engagement while offering readers valuable insights into the author’s life journey and broader societal issues.

“White Guava and War is a reflective autobiographical work that masterfully weaves personal experiences around serious themes. It is at times humorous, at other times provocatively descriptive, and consistently intellectually engaging,” he remarked.

He recommended the book to teachers, students, researchers, book lovers and the general reading public, describing it as a valuable addition to Nigeria’s growing body of literary and autobiographical works.

White Guava and War is the autobiography of Professor Ashiedu Ogboli, a distinguished Nigerian academic and scholar. Published by Ahmadu Bello University Press Ltd in 2026, the book presents a compelling account of personal experiences set against wider social and historical developments, offering readers an engaging perspective on life, learning and nation-building in Nigeria.

Why Tinubu should consider Resignation like UK PM -Peter Obi

 

 

The Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, Presidential Candidate for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider resigning his position, having failed woefully in discharging most of his campaign promises especially having failed to improve the standard of living of the citizens.

Reacting to the announcement of the British Prime Minister’s resignation, which is not unconnected with the complaints of British citizens about their deteriorating standard of living under his watch, Obi, in a tweet he titled “owning up to Leadership Failures and Political Responsibility”, advised Tinubu to emulate the British PM and save the country from the worsening economic situation.
Writing on his X handle, the 2023 Labour Party presidential flagbearer said, “This morning, I listened to the British Prime Minister’s speech announcing his planned resignation in July. As a keen observer of global politics, my primary interest lies in examining what successful nations do right and the structural factors that cause others to lag or struggle with governance and development.

“The Prime Minister’s planned resignation comes amid mounting public frustration over a stagnant economy, a worsening cost-of-living crisis, and a perceived failure to honour key campaign pledges.

“Looking inward in our dear country, we can recall our own situation. Before 2015, our President on several occasions championed the call for the then President Goodluck Jonathan to resign over economic hardship and insecurity affecting Nigerians. During the Chibok school kidnapping incident, he demanded the immediate resignation of President Jonathan, arguing that the government had failed in its most fundamental duty of protecting lives.

“During the 2023 election campaign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made several promises, including improved electricity supply. He also challenged the electorate not to vote for him for a second term if he failed to deliver on those commitments—particularly in providing stable power, fighting corruption, and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

“At present, however, these conditions have worsened. Electricity supply remains unreliable, insecurity has intensified in many areas, including kidnappings, and economic hardship has deepened rather than eased. Similar concerns are reflected across other critical sectors such as security, infrastructure, transportation, and anti-corruption efforts, all of which have regressed. We are in the worst possible condition.

“I, therefore, join Nigerians of goodwill in calling for the resignation of the President over monumental failure in governance. Such a gesture would help enthrone a political culture rooted in accountability and responsibility, rather than further entrenching impunity. It would also send a powerful message that public office is a sacred trust, not an entitlement, and help build a society in which future leaders understand that failure carries consequences. Only by ending the culture of impunity can we secure a better future for the society our children will inherit in a New Nigeria that is possible” Sunrisereporters.

 

Nigerian Navy uncovers hidden fuel stash, recovers 63,290 litres of illegal AGO, vehicle

 

 

The Nigerian Navy said it has recorded another operational success under Operation DELTA SENTINEL with the discovery of a concealed cache of suspected illegally refined petroleum products and the interception of a vehicle believed to be part of an illicit fuel distribution network in Rivers State.

 

A statement on Monday and signed by Navy Captain  Abiodun Folorunsho,

Director Naval Information said: “Acting on credible intelligence, personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH deployed to the Okolomade Community axis of Abua-Odual Local Government Area, where intelligence indicated the movement of suspected illegally refined products within the Orashi Forest corridor.

 

“During the operation, the team intercepted a silver Toyota Camry suspected to be conveying illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

“A search of the vehicle led to the recovery of about 17 sacks containing suspected illegally refined AGO. Further exploitation of the area revealed additional concealed stockpiles hidden under thick vegetation at multiple locations within the forest,” the statement said.

 

Navy Captain Folorunsho also went on to say that “Subsequent ground searches resulted in the recovery of an additional 56 sacks of suspected illegally refined AGO strategically dispersed across the area.

In total, the Spokesman said, the operation led to the recovery of 73 sacks containing approximately 63,290 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO, as well as the vehicle believed to have been used for transportation.

 

“The discovery highlights the increasing use of forest corridors and concealed storage points by criminal elements seeking to move illegally refined petroleum products from remote locations into distribution channels. The operation therefore disrupted another critical link in the illicit petroleum value chain.

 

“The products were handled in accordance with extant regulations, while the vehicle was secured for further necessary action.

 

“The Nigerian Navy remains committed to sustaining intelligence-driven operations under Operation DELTA SENTINEL to deny economic saboteurs freedom of action and protect Nigeria’s critical economic resources from criminal exploitation,”, the Service assured. Globalupfront.

UK PM Starmer steps down after less than two years in office

 

 

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as leader of the Labour Party, bringing an abrupt end to a premiership marked by policy reversals and declining public support.

 

Starmer made the announcement on Monday in an emotional address outside 10 Downing Street, where he said his decisions in office had always been guided by what he believed was best for the United Kingdom.

 

“Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” Starmer said.

 

The outgoing prime minister became visibly emotional as he addressed the nation, signaling the end of a leadership period that lasted less than two years.

 

He disclosed that the Labour Party would begin the process of selecting a new leader in July, while he would remain in office until a successor emerges.

 

According to Starmer, the leadership transition is expected to be completed by September. Starnews.