Nigeria News (Standard)
Ikpeba Visits Port Harcourt Stadium as Egbe Backs Upgrade for National Competitions
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe says improved pitch at Yakubu Gowon Stadium will boost Rivers State’s sports prospects
Former Super Eagles winger Victor Ikpeba paid an unscheduled visit to the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend to inspect ongoing redevelopment works at the iconic sports facility. The visit, which took place on Saturday, allowed Ikpeba to see first-hand the progress made in upgrading both the playing surface and general infrastructure.
Project coordinator and FIFA facilities expert Ebi Egbe, who is also Chief Executive Officer of Monichille Sports Management Company, told journalists after Ikpeba’s tour that the stadium overhaul aims to position Rivers State as a leading destination for national and international football competitions. According to Egbe, quality pitches are essential for player safety, match quality, and attracting global tournaments.
The Yakubu Gowon Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile matches in Nigerian football history but has faced criticism in recent years over its deteriorating pitch and facilities. Stakeholders believe the current upgrades will restore its status as a preferred venue for Super Eagles matches and other elite competitions.
Egbe said: “The ongoing transformation here will not only benefit players but also create opportunities for local talent development and encourage greater youth participation in sports.” He maintained that with proper maintenance, the stadium could meet FIFA standards and boost economic activities through sports tourism.
With works ongoing at the Port Harcourt facility, Rivers State government and sports authorities are expected to intensify efforts to ensure timely completion ahead of upcoming tournaments. Observers say a modernised Yakubu Gowon Stadium could serve as a catalyst for grassroots football growth and enhance Nigeria’s chances of hosting international fixtures in future.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kaduna Police Vow to Prosecute Suspects After Woman Killed in Mob Attack at Maraban Jos
Commissioner Rabiu Muhammad condemns extrajudicial killing; police say no evidence supported child theft allegation
Commissioner Rabiu Muhammad condemns extrajudicial killing; police say no evidence supported child theft allegation
Kaduna State Police Command has pledged to bring all suspects to justice after a mob killed a woman accused of child theft in Maraban Jos, a suburb of Kaduna State, on Sunday, 21st June, 2026. Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad described the incident as a serious violation of the law and warned that anyone involved would be prosecuted.
According to a statement by the command’s spokesman, DSP Mansir Hassan, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Maraban Jos received a distress call at about 10:00am regarding an ongoing mob attack on a woman accused—without proof—of child stealing. Officers responded immediately, rescued the victim from the crowd, and took her into protective custody at the station while investigations commenced.
However, despite the police intervention, a large crowd later besieged the station. The mob forcefully broke into police custody, overpowered officers on duty, dragged out the woman and killed her before setting her body ablaze. The victim was identified as a native of Maraban Jos.
Commissioner Muhammad condemned the mob action and stated that such extrajudicial killings undermine law enforcement efforts and endanger public safety. “No individual or group has the right to take laws into their own hands,” he said through Hassan’s statement. He assured residents that those identified in connection with the incident would face full prosecution under Nigerian law.
The police command further called on community members to remain calm and cooperate with investigators. Authorities urged citizens to report suspicious activities through official channels rather than resorting to violence. As at press time, investigations were ongoing and arrests are expected in connection with the incident.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti ADC Governorship Candidate Dare Bejide Rejects Poll Result, Alleges Lack of Credibility
Bejide insists the 2026 Ekiti governorship election was marred by irregularities; electoral body yet to respond to allegations
Bejide insists the 2026 Ekiti governorship election was marred by irregularities; electoral body yet to respond to allegations
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dare Bejide, has rejected the outcome of the 2026 governorship election, describing the process as lacking credibility. Bejide, a prominent political figure in the South-West state, made his position known on Sunday, June 21, following the announcement of official results by the electoral commission.
According to Bejide, the conduct of the poll was characterised by widespread irregularities that undermined the integrity of the exercise. He stated that various reports from party agents and observers indicated procedural lapses and alleged manipulations in several local government areas across Ekiti State. The ADC chieftain maintained that such issues cast doubt on the legitimacy of the declared winner and called for a thorough review of the process.
The contest for Ekiti’s top political office has drawn significant attention due to its potential impact on South-West politics ahead of national elections. Many residents and stakeholders had hoped for a transparent process that would reflect the will of voters. Allegations raised by opposition candidates like Bejide highlight persistent concerns about Nigeria’s electoral system, particularly at state level.
While Bejide has formally rejected the result, as at Sunday evening there had been no official statement from either the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or security agencies regarding his claims. The ADC candidate urged supporters to remain calm while he considers legal options. Other opposition parties are also expected to address their positions in coming days.
The next steps may involve formal petitions before election tribunals or calls for further investigation into specific incidents raised by aggrieved candidates. Observers say how authorities respond could shape public trust in future elections within Ekiti State and beyond.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Declares Victory, Calls for Unity After Governorship Election
APC candidate extends olive branch to Oluyede, Bejide and other rivals in post-election speech in Ado-Ekiti
APC candidate extends olive branch to Oluyede, Bejide and other rivals in post-election speech in Ado-Ekiti
Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State delivered his victory speech on Sunday, following the conclusion of the 2026 governorship election in the state. Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji, who contested on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), extended what he described as ‘hands of fellowship’ to his main opponents — Oluyede, Bejide and others — urging them to join him in moving the state forward.
The governor’s remarks came shortly after electoral officials announced the final results, confirming his return to office for a second term. Addressing supporters and stakeholders at the government house, Oyebanji expressed appreciation to residents of Ekiti for their peaceful conduct during the polls and reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance. He specifically called on opposition candidates to set aside political differences for the benefit of all citizens.
The election, which drew attention across South-West Nigeria, was closely watched by political observers given Ekiti’s history of fiercely contested polls. In previous cycles, aggrieved parties have often challenged outcomes in court or staged parallel celebrations. This year’s poll was seen as a test of APC’s influence in the region ahead of national elections.
In his statement, Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the contributions of his rivals and invited them to work together towards development goals. “We must put politics aside now that the people have spoken,” he said. There was no immediate response from Oluyede or Bejide at press time.
Observers say attention will now shift to how opposition parties respond and whether any legal petitions will be filed. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is expected to issue certificates of return later this week.
Kaduna Police Vow to Prosecute Suspects After Woman Killed in Mob Attack at Maraban Jos
Ekiti ADC Governorship Candidate Dare Bejide Rejects Poll Result, Alleges Lack of Credibility
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