Nigeria News (Standard)
Armed Men Kill Benue MACBAN Chairman and Son After Otukpo Peace Meeting
Attack near Ahimeni sparks fresh security concerns as residents mourn loss of key community leaders
Attack near Ahimeni sparks fresh security concerns as residents mourn loss of key community leaders
Suspected armed men have killed the Benue State chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Ardo Risku, and his son, Ibrahim, while they were returning from a peace meeting in Otukpo Local Government Area. The incident happened on Wednesday near Ahimeni in Okodu area shortly after both attended a dialogue aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among local communities.
Security sources confirmed that the victims were ambushed by the assailants on their way home and killed at the scene. The peace meeting was intended to address rising tensions between farming and herding groups in the region, but the attack has now heightened fears among residents and stakeholders.
Benue State has witnessed repeated violent attacks in recent years, with thousands of residents displaced and many lives lost. This latest incident is seen as a serious setback to ongoing efforts at reconciliation between different communities. Community members described the killing as tragic, warning that it could undermine trust-building initiatives in the state.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding arrests or immediate security measures. Residents and local leaders are calling for urgent intervention by both state and federal security agencies to prevent further escalation. As at Thursday, tension remains high in Otukpo LGA and surrounding areas, with some residents expressing fears of possible reprisals.
The loss of the MACBAN chairman and his son underscores persistent insecurity challenges facing Benue State and much of Nigeria’s North-Central zone. Stakeholders say renewed commitment to dialogue, enhanced intelligence gathering, and prompt response from security agencies will be critical in restoring confidence among affected communities.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/macban-chairman-son-killed-after-peace-meeting-in-benue/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Partners Oakleaf to Boost Health at Public Service Club Games
New collaboration aims to promote wellness among public servants through integrated health activities during annual sports event
New collaboration aims to promote wellness among public servants through integrated health activities during annual sports event
The Lagos State Government has entered into a partnership with Oakleaf, a health sector stakeholder, to enhance the health and wellness components of this year’s Lagos Public Service Club Games. The announcement was made in Lagos on Saturday, 27 June 2026, as part of efforts to improve the wellbeing of public servants across the state.
According to organisers, the partnership will introduce health-focused activities alongside the traditional sporting competitions. These additions are expected to provide participants with access to basic health checks and wellness education during the games, which serve as an annual convergence for staff from different government ministries and agencies.
The Lagos Public Service Club Games have long been a platform for fostering teamwork and camaraderie among civil servants in Nigeria’s commercial capital. This year’s inclusion of health initiatives comes amid growing calls for workplace wellness programmes within the public sector, with stakeholders noting that regular physical activity and preventive healthcare can significantly boost productivity and morale.
Officials from Oakleaf stated that their involvement would centre on providing free screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and other routine assessments throughout the tournament. “We believe that integrating these services will not only encourage participation but also raise awareness about healthy living among workers,” an Oakleaf representative said in a statement released after the agreement was signed.
The Lagos State Government has welcomed the development, describing it as a step towards building a healthier workforce. Organisers indicated that if successful, the partnership could be expanded in future editions of the games. Further details regarding specific health programmes are expected to be released ahead of the event’s official kickoff date.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kogi West Monarchs, Youth Leaders Pledge Support for Security Agencies to Tackle Insecurity
Traditional rulers in Okunland direct withdrawal of chieftaincy dispute from court, urge unity against rising crime
Traditional rulers in Okunland direct withdrawal of chieftaincy dispute from court, urge unity against rising crime
Traditional rulers and youth leaders from the five Local Government Areas of Okunland in Kogi West Senatorial District have pledged to strengthen their partnership with security agencies in a renewed effort to tackle insecurity across their communities. The commitment was made during separate meetings held over the weekend in Kabba, headquarters of Kogi West, as concerns rise about criminal activities in the North-Central state.
At a gathering of the Okun Area Traditional Council chaired by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba (Dr.) Solomon Owoniyi, monarchs reviewed pressing issues affecting peace, security and development within the district. Other royal fathers present included the Elegbe of Egbe, Oba Irukera; the Agbana of Isanlu, Oba Etombi; the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Ibeun; and the Olujumu of Ijumu, Oba Ayeni. The council resolved to work more closely with security agencies and promote community-based initiatives to combat crime.
The monarchs noted that insecurity threatens social cohesion and economic progress in Okunland and called for collective vigilance among residents. They discussed specific challenges within their domains and agreed on a united front to address common problems affecting the area.
On a chieftaincy dispute involving two traditional rulers in Yagba West Local Government Area, the council announced its intervention. The traditional leaders directed that all legal actions relating to the dispute be withdrawn from court immediately. They invited both parties to a reconciliation meeting aimed at reaching an amicable settlement.
Youth leaders present at the meetings also expressed readiness to collaborate with law enforcement agencies by improving information sharing and participating in community policing efforts. Stakeholders emphasised that only through sustained cooperation can lasting peace and security be achieved across Kogi West.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NDLEA Seizes 929.5kg Illicit Drugs, Secures 53 Convictions in Enugu State
Agency intensifies crackdown on drug trafficking, says increased operations have led to more arrests and successful prosecutions
Agency intensifies crackdown on drug trafficking, says increased operations have led to more arrests and successful prosecutions
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Enugu State has seized a total of 929.5 kilogrammes of illicit drugs and secured 53 convictions between January and June this year. The agency’s intensified efforts against drug trafficking and abuse in the South-East state have resulted in a notable increase in both arrests and successful prosecutions.
According to the NDLEA, the seizures were made during various operations across several local government areas in Enugu State, targeting known hotspots for drug activities. The agency said that its officers also dismantled several drug syndicates operating within the state during this period.
NDLEA’s recent clampdown comes amid rising concern over drug-related offences across Nigeria, with stakeholders warning about the impact of substance abuse on youth and community safety. The agency’s latest figures highlight ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing the distribution and consumption of illegal substances, especially cannabis and other narcotics prevalent in the region.
While providing an update on their activities, NDLEA officials stressed that community vigilance and public support are crucial to sustaining gains in the fight against drug trafficking. The agency also called on residents to report suspicious movements or individuals linked to illicit drugs. No statement from opposition political parties or civil society groups was immediately available regarding the latest operations.
The NDLEA has pledged to continue its operations with renewed vigour throughout 2026, urging parents, schools, and community leaders to collaborate with law enforcement to protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse.
Lagos Partners Oakleaf to Boost Health at Public Service Club Games
Can Lionel Messi Lead Argentina to Another World Cup Final? The ‘Easy Path’ Debate Explained
Kogi West Monarchs, Youth Leaders Pledge Support for Security Agencies to Tackle Insecurity
NDLEA Seizes 929.5kg Illicit Drugs, Secures 53 Convictions in Enugu State
Monica.Cash Launches New Digital Asset Conversion Service in Lagos, Targets Faster Naira Access
DSS Releases Herdsman After Two-Year Detention, Awards ₦3 Million Compensation in Abuja
NAPTIP Rescues 64 Ebonyi Children Trafficked to Ghana and Libya
Cape Verde Coach Reveals Tactical Approach Ahead of World Cup Knockout Clash With Argentina
Lagos Influencers Share Content Creation Playbook on Nigerian Bottling Company Podcast
Nigerian Army Redeploys Top Generals in Major Shake-Up Across Commands
Environment Minister Urges Increased Investment in Nigeria’s Green Economy Ahead of Global Climate Summit
Gọvanmenti Nigeria Kwupụtara 53 Orù Anyanwụ Maka Ike Ọhụrụ N’iru Afọ 2050
Lagos Residents Spend Over ₦50bn on US Visa Applications Amid Tighter Entry Rules
Lagos FMCG Giants Record ₦18.9bn Rise in Production Costs, Earnings Hit by Inflation in Q1
Lagos Police Arrest Doctor, Birth Attendant Over Alleged Sale of Newborn for ₦2.5m
Moniepoint Graduates Second DreamDevs Cohort in Lagos to Strengthen Nigeria’s Engineering Workforce
FG Launches $500m Abuja Formula 1 Bid, Targets Africa’s First Grand Prix Since 1993
Lagos Court Declares National Assembly’s ₦110bn Vehicle and Allowance Spending Unlawful
Fresh Romance Rumours Trail Lando Norris as Alix Earle Sparks Drama in Monaco
