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Nigeria News (Standard)

Minister of Interior Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Mark Democracy Day Nationwide

Tunji-Ojo urges Nigerians to uphold democratic values as government offices, banks and schools to close across all states

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Tunji-Ojo urges Nigerians to uphold democratic values as government offices, banks and schools to close across all states

The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday across Nigeria in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day. The announcement was made in Abuja on Thursday by Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani.

According to the ministry, the decision is part of efforts to recognise the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic journey and honour those who contributed to the country’s return to civilian rule. All federal and state government offices, schools, banks and many private businesses are expected to remain closed nationwide on Friday as citizens observe the national holiday.

Democracy Day has been officially celebrated on June 12 since 2019, following a policy shift by the Federal Government to acknowledge the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election—widely regarded as the freest and fairest poll in Nigeria’s history. The day also pays tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, who is believed by many Nigerians to have won that election and became a symbol of the struggle for democratic governance.

In his Democracy Day message, Minister Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians and called for reflection on the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists. “As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding… and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,” he stated. He further urged Nigerians to support ongoing efforts towards national unity, peace and development.

The minister assured citizens that Government remains committed to upholding democratic ideals including respect for rule of law and transparency. He added that security agencies would be working closely with his ministry during the holiday period to maintain peace and order throughout all geopolitical zones. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding the announcement.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/fg-declares-june-12-public-holiday-democracy-day-2026-2026061117135419198

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Oyo State Authority Seizes Livestock Over Illegal Grazing in Iseyin LGA

Move follows farmers’ complaints of crop destruction as Rule of Law Enforcement intensifies clampdown on open grazing

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June 11, 2026

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Move follows farmers’ complaints of crop destruction as Rule of Law Enforcement intensifies clampdown on open grazing

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has confiscated livestock found grazing illegally in Apata Olomo, along Ado-Awaye Road, Iseyin Local Government Area (LGA), following a series of petitions from local farmers. The enforcement action was carried out on Thursday after farmers alleged that herders’ animals had encroached on farmlands, destroyed crops, and threatened their means of livelihood.

According to a statement issued by Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.), Chairperson of OYRLEA, the operation was prompted by mounting complaints from the affected community. The enforcement team—led by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojoomo and accompanied by Kofoworola Akinbode, Chief of Staff to the chairperson, as well as security personnel—visited the area to verify the allegations before impounding animals found in violation of state regulations.

Justice Aderemi explained that the team confirmed reports of open grazing contrary to Oyo State’s livestock management laws. She stated that such activities undermine local food security and threaten peace between farmers and herders in the region. “The enforcement operation was initiated following petitions received from farmers within the community, who alleged that the activities of some herders had led to the destruction of farmlands and the consumption of agricultural produce,” Aderemi said.

The crackdown forms part of wider efforts by Oyo State authorities to enforce legislation banning open grazing and promote sustainable livestock management. While affected herders were not immediately available for comment, OYRLEA reiterated its commitment to protecting agricultural livelihoods and maintaining order in rural communities.

Justice Aderemi emphasised that further operations would continue across Oyo State as at when necessary, urging all livestock owners to comply with relevant regulations or face similar sanctions. The authority also encouraged residents to report violations promptly for swift intervention.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/agro-care/oyo-impounds-livestock-over-illegal-grazing-in-iseyin/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

258 Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrive Lagos Amid Xenophobia Fears

Returnees land at Murtala Muhammed Airport as federal government pledges support, following renewed attacks on foreigners

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June 11, 2026

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Returnees land at Murtala Muhammed Airport as federal government pledges support, following renewed attacks on foreigners

A total of 258 Nigerians evacuated from South Africa touched down at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Thursday, following recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in the country. The returnees arrived as part of an emergency repatriation exercise coordinated by federal authorities in response to growing safety concerns for Nigerian citizens in South Africa.

According to officials involved in the operation, the evacuation was carried out after several reports of violence and harassment against Nigerians and other African migrants in major South African cities. The repatriated citizens were received by immigration and health officials on arrival, who conducted routine screening before facilitating their onward movement to temporary shelters arranged by government agencies.

Xenophobic incidents have persisted over the years in South Africa, with Nigerians among those frequently affected by targeted attacks. The latest evacuation comes as Nigerian authorities face mounting pressure to protect their nationals abroad and strengthen diplomatic engagement with the South African government. Families and advocacy groups had earlier called for urgent action, citing rising insecurity for Nigerians living in Johannesburg and other urban centres.

Officials said the government would provide immediate support to the returnees, including accommodation and counselling services. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also reiterated its commitment to securing the welfare of Nigerians in diaspora. “We are working closely with our South African counterparts to ensure safety of all our citizens,” a representative stated during the reception ceremony.

Further evacuations may be considered if violence persists, government sources indicated, while urging South Africans and Nigerians alike to foster peaceful coexistence. Diplomatic discussions between both countries are expected to continue in the coming weeks.

XENOPHOBIA: Returnees receive N100,000 from MTN, N1m from Imo Govt


Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/886802-updated-258-nigerians-evacuated-from-south-africa-over-xenophobia-attacks-arrive-in-lagos.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Bandits Kill Miss UNIJOS Queen’s Fiancé in Kaduna, Spark Security Concerns

Recent attack in Kaduna North-West leaves one dead; residents call for urgent government intervention to stem rising violence

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15 minutes ago

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June 11, 2026

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Recent attack in Kaduna North-West leaves one dead; residents call for urgent government intervention to stem rising violence

A young man has been killed by bandits in Kaduna State, North-West Nigeria, in an incident that has drawn renewed attention to the region’s persistent security challenges. The victim, identified as the fiancé of a reigning beauty queen from the University of Jos (UNIJOS), was reportedly shot dead during an attack on Thursday.

According to local sources, the attack occurred at night when armed men invaded a community in Kaduna. Eyewitnesses said the bandits opened fire indiscriminately, leading to the tragic death of the man who had recently become engaged to the Miss UNIJOS queen. The identity of the deceased has not been released by authorities as at press time.

The killing highlights ongoing security concerns across many parts of Kaduna State and neighbouring areas, where armed groups have carried out repeated attacks on residents, commuters and rural communities. Kidnappings for ransom and violent assaults remain a major challenge for state and federal security agencies, with victims often including students, civil servants and private citizens.

Security officials in Kaduna have yet to issue a formal statement on the latest incident. However, community leaders are urging both state government and law enforcement agencies to intensify patrols and intelligence operations in vulnerable areas. “We are pleading with government to act fast before more lives are lost,” one resident said.

The death of the UNIJOS queen’s fiancé has sparked widespread condolences online and among student communities in Plateau and Kaduna States. Many Nigerians are calling for stronger action from authorities to safeguard lives and property, as families continue to live under fear of further attacks.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/886971-how-bandits-killed-my-fiance-in-kaduna-miss-unijos-queen.html

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