Nigeria News (Standard)
Niger State Shuts Six Illegal Mining Sites in Kontagora and Mariga LGAs
Government officials, security agencies conduct joint operation as part of renewed crackdown on unlawful mineral extraction
Government officials, security agencies conduct joint operation as part of renewed crackdown on unlawful mineral extraction
The Niger State Ministry of Mineral Resources has closed down six illegal mining processing sites in Kontagora and Mariga Local Government Areas, North-Central Nigeria, following a targeted enforcement exercise carried out this week. The move was announced on Sunday by Dibie Maureen, spokesperson for the ministry, who said the clampdown demonstrates government’s resolve to sanitise the mining sector and ensure that mineral wealth benefits the state’s economy.
According to the statement, the operation was led by Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Muhammad Danjuma, who undertook a two-day monitoring tour alongside senior security personnel. The delegation included Attah Onoja, Federal Head of Mining Marshals from the National Headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Jibrin Muhammad, North Central Zonal Head of Mining Marshals, and other officers tasked with protecting Nigeria’s natural resources.
The crackdown comes amid growing concerns about unregulated mining activities in Niger State, which authorities say have fuelled environmental degradation and deprived government of critical revenues. Officials stressed that shutting down illegal sites is necessary to restore order to the sector and promote responsible mineral exploitation that supports local development.
During the visit to Wamba Ward in Mariga LGA, Danjuma and his team held extensive discussions with traditional rulers and community leaders under District Head Isah Ya’u. The engagement aimed to build consensus on lawful mining practices and address security challenges facing host communities. “We are working with stakeholders at all levels to ensure peace and compliance with regulations,” Danjuma said during the meeting.
The ministry indicated that further monitoring exercises would continue across Niger State in coming weeks. Authorities urged community members to report suspicious mining operations and assured that legal miners operating within regulatory frameworks would be supported. As at press time, opposition parties had not issued an official reaction to the shutdowns.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/niger-shuts-six-illegal-mining-sites/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court Revokes Sowore’s Bail, Orders Immediate Arrest Over Alleged Breach
Federal High Court issues bench warrant against activist; legal team says it will challenge decision
Federal High Court issues bench warrant against activist; legal team says it will challenge decision
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has revoked the bail previously granted to activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, ordering his immediate arrest on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The decision follows allegations that Sowore violated the terms of his bail as set by the court during his ongoing trial.
The presiding judge issued a bench warrant for Sowore’s arrest after reviewing submissions from the prosecution regarding repeated absences and alleged non-compliance with bail conditions. The court directed security agencies to locate and present Sowore before it at the next adjourned date for continuation of proceedings.
Sowore, known for his activism and past involvement in #EndSARS protests, had been on bail pending trial over charges that have drawn national and international attention. The case has sparked debate among civil society groups and political observers over judicial process and the rights of defendants under Nigerian law.
While the prosecution argued that revocation was necessary due to what they described as “deliberate flouting” of court directives, members of Sowore’s legal team indicated that they would file an application to challenge the order. They maintained that their client had complied with all lawful instructions issued by the court.
With this latest development, attention now shifts to security agencies tasked with enforcing the arrest order. Legal experts say the outcome could have wider implications for high-profile defendants and future bail rulings in Nigeria’s justice system.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Actor Baba Ijesha Announces Birth of Son Amid Public Attention
Omiyinka James shares news of baby boy on social media, marking new chapter after high-profile legal ordeal
Omiyinka James shares news of baby boy on social media, marking new chapter after high-profile legal ordeal
Popular Lagos-based actor Omiyinka James, widely known as Baba Ijesha, has announced the arrival of his son, King Kagar Omiyinka, in a post shared on social media on Sunday. The Nollywood actor expressed gratitude for the healthy addition to his family and acknowledged the support of his wife, describing her as ‘strong Jagaban’ and ‘the mother of my son’.
The announcement comes after a period of intense public scrutiny surrounding Baba Ijesha’s recent legal challenges. The actor was previously at the centre of a highly publicised criminal case involving allegations of sexual assault against a minor, which resulted in his remand at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre in Lagos for several months. The case drew significant attention across Nigeria, with many Nigerians following developments both in court and on social media.
In sharing the news, Baba Ijesha said, “In quiet ways, in unseen ways, God has been writing a story only He could tell. We thank the Almighty for blessing us with a healthy baby boy.” He further paid tribute to his wife, @ceolumineeofficial, noting her resilience throughout their ordeal: “God gave me more than I prayed for. My ever beautiful wife… who became the mother of my son, King Kagar Omiyinka.”
Reactions have continued to trail the announcement online. While some fans congratulated the actor and offered prayers for his family’s future, others referenced his recent legal troubles. Public commentators have observed that this development represents a fresh start for Baba Ijesha after a tumultuous period. As at press time, there has been no official comment from film industry associations regarding the birth or its wider significance.
With this milestone, stakeholders in Nollywood and followers alike will be watching to see how Baba Ijesha navigates his personal and professional journey following recent events. The actor has not yet indicated any plans regarding his return to acting or public engagements.
Source: https://guardian.ng/life/actor-baba-ijesha-welcomes-son/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court Dismisses Yahaya Bello’s Attempt to Halt ₦110bn Fraud Trial
Former Kogi governor’s legal challenge fails as Federal High Court rules EFCC can proceed with prosecution
Former Kogi governor’s legal challenge fails as Federal High Court rules EFCC can proceed with prosecution
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Tuesday dismissed the bid by former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, to stop his ongoing fraud trial involving allegations of ₦110 billion misappropriation. The ruling paves the way for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to continue its prosecution against Bello, who served two terms as governor under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The court delivered its judgment after hearing arguments from both Bello’s legal team and counsel representing the EFCC. The former governor had filed a motion seeking to restrain the anti-graft agency from proceeding with criminal charges over alleged diversion of state funds. However, the presiding judge held that Bello’s application lacked merit and declined to grant any order stopping the trial.
This development marks a significant point in ongoing efforts to hold high-profile political figures accountable for corruption allegations in Nigeria. Bello, who left office earlier this year, has consistently denied any wrongdoing and insists that the charges are politically motivated. The EFCC, on its part, maintains that it has gathered sufficient evidence to support its claims of financial impropriety during Bello’s tenure.
In reaction to the ruling, officials from the EFCC welcomed the court’s decision as a victory for due process and the rule of law. They reiterated their commitment to pursuing all cases of alleged corruption regardless of an individual’s political status. Attempts to reach representatives from Yahaya Bello’s camp for comment were unsuccessful as at press time.
The case is expected to proceed with substantive hearings in the coming weeks. Legal analysts say the outcome could have wider implications for anti-corruption enforcement involving former public office holders across Nigeria.
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