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Nigeria News (Standard)

House of Representatives Approves State Police Bill with 288 Votes Amid Security Concerns

Parliament Support Network praises Speaker Abbas Tajudeen as bill seeks constitutional amendment for state police formation

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Parliament Support Network praises Speaker Abbas Tajudeen as bill seeks constitutional amendment for state police formation

The House of Representatives on Thursday passed the State Police Bill in Abuja, marking a major legislative move to address Nigeria’s persistent insecurity. The bill, which seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution and create a legal framework for state-run police services, was approved by an overwhelming majority of lawmakers—288 in favour, with only four opposing.

The approval followed heated debates on the floor of the House, with many members highlighting the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture. Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen (APC, Kaduna), presided over the session that saw cross-party support for devolving police powers to state governments while retaining a federal structure.

Nigeria has witnessed increasing calls from citizens and civil society groups for more local control over policing, especially as insecurity remains a critical issue in several regions. The move to establish state police is viewed by many stakeholders as a necessary step towards strengthening law enforcement and improving rapid response to security challenges at community level.

Reacting to the development, Executive Director of Parliament Support Network (PSN), Dr. Moses Onoja, commended both Speaker Abbas and members of the 10th Assembly for what he described as an act of courage and patriotism. “The passage of this bill shows real commitment to long-standing demands from Nigerians who want better protection of lives and property,” Onoja said in a statement issued after the vote.

With the bill’s passage in the House, attention now shifts to the Senate and state Houses of Assembly for concurrence and further legislative action. If adopted at all required levels, Nigeria will see its constitution altered to allow states establish their own police commands—a development that could reshape security management across all six geopolitical zones.

Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/insecurity-group-hails-reps-abbas-over-passage-of-state-police-bill/

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Abuja Group Threatens Legal Action Against Protesters Over Headquarters Occupation

Organisation warns demonstrators to vacate premises immediately, citing security concerns after recent Abuja protest

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Organisation warns demonstrators to vacate premises immediately, citing security concerns after recent Abuja protest

A prominent group in Abuja has issued a stern warning to protesters who recently occupied its headquarters, threatening to take legal action if the demonstrators do not vacate the premises without delay. The incident took place at the organisation’s Abuja office on Saturday, 13 June 2026, drawing attention to rising tensions around property rights and protest activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

Witnesses reported that a number of protesters stormed the group’s headquarters in Abuja, staging a sit-in and making various demands. Security personnel were seen monitoring the situation as the demonstration continued for several hours before dispersing. The group, whose name was not disclosed at press time, described the occupation as unlawful and disruptive to its operations.

The group’s management stated that such actions pose significant risks to staff safety and could escalate into further confrontations. They emphasised that while peaceful assembly is a constitutional right, trespassing on private property violates Nigerian law and would not be tolerated. The leadership called on relevant authorities to intervene if the protesters refuse to leave voluntarily.

In a statement released after the incident, group officials said they were prepared to pursue all available legal remedies to protect their interests. “We will not hesitate to seek redress in court if this illegal occupation persists,” the statement read. Efforts to reach representatives of the protest group for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.

The Abuja police command has yet to issue an official response regarding possible investigations or enforcement measures. The situation highlights ongoing debates about balancing civic activism with respect for legal boundaries in Nigeria’s capital city.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/887432-group-threatens-legal-action-against-protesters-who-occupied-its-abuja-headquarters.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Katsina: Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar Dies in Bandits’ Captivity After Weeks in Detention

Governor Radda confirms security agencies’ failed rescue efforts as state mourns loss of former Defence Information Director

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Governor Radda confirms security agencies’ failed rescue efforts as state mourns loss of former Defence Information Director

Retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, former Director of Defence Information, has died while being held captive by armed men in Matazu Local Government Area of Katsina State. The incident occurred after the senior officer was abducted with his wife, Hajiya Amina Abubakar, near Zakin Baure village along the Marabar Musawa-Kafinsoli road. His death was confirmed on Thursday by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Muazu.

According to official accounts, Abubakar and his wife were kidnapped several weeks ago while travelling with their driver, Abdullahi Sa’idu. The driver managed to escape despite sustaining a gunshot wound. Security agencies and the state government launched extensive efforts to secure their release, but these proved unsuccessful. The retired general reportedly died in captivity from complications related to diabetes and hypertension.

The abduction and subsequent death of General Abubakar has further highlighted persistent security challenges in Katsina State and across the North-West region. Matazu LGA, where the incident took place, has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups targeting commuters and residents in recent years. The government described the situation as a national tragedy and a dark moment for both the state and Nigeria at large.

In a statement, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda expressed deep sorrow over the development, extending condolences to the late officer’s family and the wider Nigerian military community. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity. Despite relentless and concerted efforts by the State Government and various security agencies to secure his safe release, this tragedy could not be prevented,” Dr. Nasiru Muazu said on behalf of the state government.

The family of the deceased confirmed that their vehicle—a red Peugeot 504 assigned to Major General Abubakar—was recovered by police at Matazu Divisional Headquarters after the incident. As at press time, security agencies have intensified patrols in affected areas while reiterating calls for greater collaboration among stakeholders to tackle insecurity in Katsina State.

The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment on Thursday evening.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/abducted-army-general-abubakar-rabe-dies-in-captivity-after-weeks-of-being-held-by-bandits-2026061317225131709

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ADC Refuses to Confirm Reports on Atiku’s Running Mate Selection

Party officials decline comment amid mounting speculation over Atiku Abubakar’s vice-presidential pick ahead of 2027 elections

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Party officials decline comment amid mounting speculation over Atiku Abubakar’s vice-presidential pick ahead of 2027 elections

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declined to confirm widespread reports regarding the selection of a running mate for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is expected to contest in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. Party officials, when contacted on Saturday in Abuja, refused to provide details or comment on the matter, despite growing public interest.

Rumours have circulated in recent days across political circles that Atiku, a prominent figure from Adamawa State and former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, may have reached an agreement with the ADC concerning his running mate. The uncertainty has fuelled speculation about new political alliances and potential defections ahead of the next general elections.

The choice of a running mate is considered a critical factor in Nigeria’s presidential race, as it can influence regional support and party strategy. Atiku’s previous selections for vice-presidential candidate have drawn attention due to their impact on voting patterns in key geopolitical zones. With the next poll less than a year away, Nigerians are closely watching for any indication of new alignments among major political parties.

Despite repeated enquiries from journalists, ADC leaders maintained their silence and did not issue any official statement on the reported selection. Efforts to reach Atiku’s media aides also yielded no response as at press time. Without confirmation from either party or candidate, uncertainty remains over whether an agreement has indeed been finalised.

As the 2027 election season gathers momentum, further announcements from both Atiku Abubakar and ADC are expected to shape the evolving political landscape. Stakeholders say clarity on his choice of running mate could influence other parties’ strategies and realignments across Nigeria.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/887419-adc-declines-to-confirm-reports-of-atiku-running-mate-pick.html

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