Nigeria News (Standard)
INEC Presents Certificates of Return to Ekiti Governor Oyebanji, Deputy After Second Term Win
Presentation in Ado-Ekiti follows Oyebanji’s re-election; APC extends dominance as opposition parties yet to react
Presentation in Ado-Ekiti follows Oyebanji’s re-election; APC extends dominance as opposition parties yet to react
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday presented certificates of return to Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, confirming their victory in the just-concluded Ekiti State governorship election. The event, which held at INEC’s state office in Ado-Ekiti, formally marks the start of their second term in office under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to INEC officials, the presentation ceremony was attended by top state government functionaries, party stalwarts, and security agencies. Governor Oyebanji and his deputy received their certificates after being declared winners by the electoral umpire following the collation of results across all local government areas in Ekiti. The APC leadership in the state described the development as a mandate renewal and commended voters for their turnout.
Oyebanji’s victory is significant for Ekiti State and the South-West geopolitical zone, as it extends APC’s control amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. Political observers note that the re-election consolidates APC’s position in the region and could influence federal–state relations on key policy matters. Stakeholders have also highlighted that the poll was conducted with fewer reported incidents compared to previous cycles, reflecting growing confidence in INEC’s processes.
In his remarks at the ceremony, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State emphasised adherence to electoral guidelines and urged politicians to respect democratic norms as post-election petitions may arise. As at press time, opposition parties were yet to issue official statements on the outcome or indicate whether they would challenge results at the tribunal.
With certificates now issued, attention shifts to Oyebanji’s second-term agenda as Ekiti residents await further details on governance priorities. Analysts expect a renewed focus on infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment initiatives within the state.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Ondo Police Arrest Six Suspected Cultists, Recover Weapons in Akoko South West
Police say Special Anti-Cultism Squad acted on intelligence; suspects linked to recent rise in cult activities in the area
Police say Special Anti-Cultism Squad acted on intelligence; suspects linked to recent rise in cult activities in the area
Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested six suspected cultists during a targeted operation in Akungba and Iwaro-Akoko, both in Akoko South West Local Council Area. The arrests were made in the early hours of Tuesday, following credible intelligence on alleged unlawful confraternity activities within the area.
According to Abayomi Jimoh, Police Public Relations Officer for Ondo State Command, the operation was carried out by the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SACS) after reports of increased cult-related incidents in Akoko. The suspects—Damilare Kayode (30), Adejoro Godwin (30), Adedapo Ogunro (36), Chisom Okechukwu (21), Ademulegun Imisi (26), and Odugunle Bukola (21)—were apprehended at different locations across Akungba and Iwaro-Akoko.
The police spokesperson stated that the ongoing security challenges in Akoko axis prompted heightened surveillance and intervention efforts. “The operation, which was conducted in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating the activities of suspected cult members within the affected areas,” Jimoh said. He added that weapons recovered from the suspects would be used as evidence as investigations continue.
Jimoh further assured residents that police are intensifying efforts to dismantle unlawful groups threatening peace in Ondo State. He urged community members to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to authorities. As at press time, investigations were ongoing to determine if there are other accomplices and to establish any connections between the suspects and recent violent incidents reported in Akoko South West.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order across all local council areas and called on traditional rulers and community leaders to support ongoing security initiatives.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta Senator Decamped to ADC After Disqualification from APC Screening
Move comes amid rising tensions in Delta South as party leaders debate implications for 2026 election cycle
Move comes amid rising tensions in Delta South as party leaders debate implications for 2026 election cycle
A serving Senator representing Delta South Senatorial District has officially decamped from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following his disqualification from the APC screening exercise held in Delta State on Tuesday, 23 June 2026. The Senator’s exit marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of Delta South ahead of the next general elections.
The development unfolded after the APC screening committee released its list of cleared candidates, with the lawmaker’s name missing due to reported issues with documentation and internal disagreements. Sources within the party confirmed that the Senator, who had sought re-nomination on the APC platform, was informed of his disqualification shortly before the final list was made public. He immediately announced his defection to ADC at a meeting with supporters in Warri, citing unfair treatment by APC leadership.
This move is likely to reshape alliances and campaign strategies across Delta South and neighbouring constituencies. Analysts say it signals growing dissatisfaction among party members left out of selection processes, a trend that has affected both major and smaller parties as Nigeria heads towards the 2026 polls. With APC already facing challenges from rival parties including PDP and LP in the region, losing an incumbent senator could weaken its chances further.
While APC officials have yet to issue an official statement regarding the disqualification or subsequent defection, local ADC leaders welcomed their new member and called on supporters to rally behind him for upcoming primaries. Party chieftains in Warri described his entry as ‘a boost for credible representation,’ while some aggrieved APC stakeholders accused national leaders of sidelining grassroots voices during candidate selection.
With political realignments underway, observers expect further shifts as aspirants position themselves for nomination battles across Delta State and the wider South-South geopolitical zone.
Nigeria News (Standard)
IGP Bans Police Officers Nationwide from Creating TikTok, Facebook Content
New directive prohibits officers in all states from posting videos or photos on social media platforms while in uniform or on duty
New directive prohibits officers in all states from posting videos or photos on social media platforms while in uniform or on duty
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has issued a nationwide ban on police officers creating and sharing content on popular social media platforms, including TikTok and Facebook. The directive, which took effect across all states on Tuesday, aims to curb unauthorised online activity by personnel in uniform or during official assignments.
According to the circular sent to police commands and formations, the IGP warned that officers found sharing videos, photos, or engaging in content creation for public consumption while on duty would face disciplinary action. This move comes amid concerns about the increasing number of viral videos showing police officers dancing, participating in challenges, or commenting on sensitive security issues online.
The police leadership said the ban is necessary to maintain discipline and protect the image of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Authorities argued that such online activities undermine operational confidentiality and could expose officers and their families to security risks. In recent months, several videos featuring uniformed officers have sparked debate about professionalism within the force.
The statement from police headquarters also reminded officers that all engagements with the public must adhere to the NPF’s code of conduct. While some rank-and-file members have criticised the policy as too restrictive, senior officials insist it is vital for upholding discipline and public trust.
Police spokespersons at state commands confirmed they have begun sensitising personnel about the new rules. Observers say enforcement will be closely watched in coming weeks, with possible implications for how law enforcement agencies manage their digital presence going forward.
Ondo Police Arrest Six Suspected Cultists, Recover Weapons in Akoko South West
Delta Senator Decamped to ADC After Disqualification from APC Screening
IGP Bans Police Officers Nationwide from Creating TikTok, Facebook Content
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