Nigeria News (Standard)
INEC Deregisters ADC, Others in Abuja as Opposition Parties Vow Court Action
Move sparks backlash from opposition, who describe the decision as undemocratic and threaten to challenge INEC in court
Move sparks backlash from opposition, who describe the decision as undemocratic and threaten to challenge INEC in court
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has deregistered the African Democratic Congress (ADC) along with several other political parties in Abuja on Monday, 15 June 2026, a decision that has drawn sharp reactions from opposition figures who say they will seek redress in court. The electoral body announced the move citing non-compliance with registration requirements and poor performance during recent elections.
According to INEC officials, the affected parties failed to meet constitutional criteria including winning a minimum number of seats in legislative assemblies and scoring sufficient votes in national elections. The commission said this step is aimed at streamlining Nigeria’s crowded political space and ensuring that only viable parties remain active participants.
The deregistration has immediate implications for the country’s political landscape, especially as Nigeria approaches another round of key elections. Many opposition leaders argue that such actions undermine multiparty democracy and restrict voter choice. In previous cycles, similar decisions by INEC have faced legal challenges, some of which resulted in reinstatement of affected parties.
Reacting to the announcement, leaders of deregistered parties described INEC’s decision as arbitrary and vowed to contest it in court. “This is a deliberate attempt to silence alternative voices,” one opposition figure said. Another chieftain warned that the action could set a dangerous precedent for future elections. Meanwhile, supporters of the move insist it will strengthen Nigeria’s democracy by encouraging more serious contenders.
The next steps will likely involve protracted legal battles between deregistered parties and INEC, with broader implications for political participation across all six geopolitical zones. Observers say the outcome could shape how Nigeria regulates party registration ahead of upcoming polls.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Nigerian Army Rescues Widow of Ex-Defence Spokesman in Katsina Operation
Troops intensify offensive against armed groups in Batsari LGA, freeing abducted widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar
Troops intensify offensive against armed groups in Batsari LGA, freeing abducted widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar
The Nigerian Army has rescued the widow of late Major General Rabe Abubakar during a recent military offensive against armed men in Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State. The operation, which took place on Monday, saw troops intensify efforts to dislodge criminal elements responsible for a series of abductions and attacks across the North-West.
According to military sources, the rescue was part of a broader campaign targeting hideouts used by armed men in rural communities around Batsari. The widow, whose name was not immediately disclosed, had been held captive for an unspecified period before her liberation by security forces. Details on whether any ransom was demanded or paid were not provided as at press time.
Katsina State has witnessed a surge in abductions and violent attacks over the past year, with several communities in Batsari and neighbouring LGAs repeatedly targeted. Security analysts say the ongoing military operations are crucial to restoring confidence among residents and reducing the influence of criminal groups operating across the North-West geopolitical zone.
A senior army officer involved in the operation said, “Our troops will continue to pursue all criminals until every abducted citizen regains freedom and peace returns to Katsina communities.” However, families affected by previous abductions say they remain concerned about the safety of their loved ones still in captivity.
The Nigerian Army said its troops would sustain patrols and intelligence-driven raids across affected areas. Authorities urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comments regarding the latest rescue effort.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NBS Reports Nigeria’s Inflation Rises to 15.93% as Food Prices Surge Nationwide
National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers
National Bureau of Statistics attributes increase to higher costs of staple foods, raising concerns for households and policymakers
Nigeria’s headline inflation rate climbed to 15.93 percent in June, according to figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Monday. The agency said the uptick was driven mainly by persistent increases in food prices across states, deepening economic pressure on households nationwide.
The NBS report, published from its Abuja headquarters, showed that both urban and rural dwellers experienced rising costs for essential commodities such as rice, yam, bread, and oil. The latest figure marks a further jump from previous months and signals continued challenges for consumers already grappling with stagnant wages and high unemployment.
Analysts say the new inflation data highlights ongoing structural problems in agriculture and distribution networks. Many Nigerians have seen their purchasing power eroded as food accounts for a significant share of household expenditure. With the naira remaining under pressure against major currencies, import-dependent goods have also become more expensive.
In its statement, the NBS attributed the spike to disruptions in local supply chains and seasonal factors affecting harvests. The agency urged policymakers to prioritise investment in transport infrastructure and market access for farmers as part of wider measures to rein in inflation. No official comment was immediately available from the Ministry of Finance or Central Bank.
Economists warn that without decisive action to stabilise prices, more Nigerians could slip into poverty amid rising costs of living. The NBS is expected to release further breakdowns by sector and state in coming weeks.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Reps Caucus Leader Challenges Oshiomhole on Peter Obi’s Security Record in Anambra
APC chieftain’s criticism draws swift response from House member, reigniting debate over past governance in South-East
APC chieftain’s criticism draws swift response from House member, reigniting debate over past governance in South-East
A leader of the House of Representatives caucus has openly confronted former APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, regarding remarks made about Peter Obi’s security performance during his tenure as Governor of Anambra State. The exchange, which took place on Monday, has reignited discussion over the legacy of security management in the South-East.
The confrontation began after Oshiomhole reportedly criticised Obi’s handling of security issues when he was governor, alleging that Anambra experienced significant lapses under his watch. In response, the Reps caucus leader—whose identity was not specified—defended Obi’s record and challenged Oshiomhole to provide concrete evidence supporting his claims.
The debate has caught public attention as political stakeholders and observers recall that security concerns have remained a major issue for successive administrations in Anambra and across the South-East zone. The state has long grappled with incidents of violence and criminal activity, making the track records of former governors a subject of continuous scrutiny.
Oshiomhole, a prominent APC figure from Edo State, had earlier commented on Obi’s governorship in a public forum, questioning whether his administration left behind improved security or unresolved challenges. The Reps caucus leader countered by highlighting achievements recorded during Obi’s term and accused critics of politicising security issues for partisan gain.
With both parties holding their ground, analysts say the ongoing dispute is likely to further polarise opinions ahead of future elections in the region. Political observers note that debates around past governance are expected to influence voter sentiment as politicians jostle for relevance and credibility.
