Nigeria News (Standard)
Accord Party Vows to Challenge Abuja Court De-Registration Ruling
Party leadership rejects judgement on party status, insists legal battle will continue up to Supreme Court if needed
Party leadership rejects judgement on party status, insists legal battle will continue up to Supreme Court if needed
The Accord Party has formally rejected the decision of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja which upheld its de-registration, vowing on Tuesday to pursue all available legal avenues to overturn the judgement. The party’s national leadership made this known shortly after the court’s ruling, declaring their intention to file an appeal.
Details of how the event unfolded remain limited as at press time, but party officials maintained that the verdict would not discourage their struggle to regain official status. The Federal High Court had ruled in favour of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which previously de-registered Accord alongside other parties following a post-election review exercise.
The de-registration saga has become a prominent issue in Nigeria’s political landscape, with several affected parties arguing that INEC’s action undermines pluralism and limits voters’ choices. Many stakeholders have said the move could impact smaller parties’ participation in future elections, especially at grassroots levels across various states.
A statement by the Accord Party leadership described the court’s decision as “unacceptable,” affirming that they will explore every constitutional means for redress. As at the time of this report, INEC had not issued any fresh comment on the ruling or Accord’s planned appeal. Legal analysts say similar matters could end up before the Supreme Court if parties exhaust lower court options.
With next year’s general elections drawing closer, observers are watching how ongoing legal battles over party registration might shape Nigeria’s electoral field. The outcome of Accord’s appeal is expected to set a precedent for other aggrieved political groups facing similar challenges.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Tinubu Urges Judges to Deliver Swift Justice in Warri Federal Constituency
President emphasises need for timely court rulings as stakeholders meet in Delta State to address legal delays
President emphasises need for timely court rulings as stakeholders meet in Delta State to address legal delays
President Bola Tinubu has called on judges across Nigeria to ensure the prompt delivery of justice, stressing that delayed rulings undermine public confidence in the judicial system. He made this appeal on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting with Ijaw and Urhobo leaders in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State.
The meeting, which brought together traditional rulers, political representatives and community leaders from the South-South region, was convened to address concerns over prolonged court cases affecting local development projects. President Tinubu told attendees that effective justice delivery is critical for peace and economic growth, especially in regions facing complex communal and resource disputes.
The president’s intervention comes amid rising frustration among residents of Delta State over slow legal proceedings that have stalled major infrastructure and oil-related compensation cases. Many community members present at the meeting expressed hope that accelerated court processes would help resolve longstanding disputes and unlock delayed federal interventions.
“When justice is delayed, it is denied,” Tinubu said while addressing the gathering. “Our courts must work faster so that people do not lose faith in our democracy and governance.” He urged judicial officers to uphold their oath of office by prioritising efficiency without compromising fairness. No official response was available from the National Judicial Council as at press time.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue between government officials, judicial authorities and local stakeholders to ensure timely resolution of pending matters. Observers say Tinubu’s remarks may prompt renewed attention to judicial reforms aimed at clearing backlogs and strengthening rule of law in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Over 30 Kwara Monarchs Flee Palaces as 11 Obas Abducted or Killed in Kidnap Wave
Traditional rulers now operate from Ilorin, Lagos, and Osogbo after armed men target palaces, crippling local governance
Traditional rulers now operate from Ilorin, Lagos, and Osogbo after armed men target palaces, crippling local governance
More than 30 traditional rulers have fled their palaces across southern Kwara State following a series of abductions and attacks by armed men, with at least 11 Obas reportedly abducted or killed since the start of the year. The exodus has paralysed leadership in over two dozen communities, disrupting farming and local security structures.
The crisis intensified after recent incidents including the death of Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, the ruler of Olayinka community, who reportedly died in captivity after being abducted alongside his wife. Another attack targeted the palace of the Elerin of Adanla. Most affected monarchs are now said to be ruling remotely from safer cities such as Ilorin, Offa, Osogbo in Osun State, and Lagos, while maintaining contact with their subjects at a distance.
Communities impacted by these developments include Omugo, Afin, Oreke, Oreke Oke-Igbo, Olohuntele, Alabe, Ganmu Ailehri, Ologanmo, Igbo Agbon and Olayinka. Local residents say the absence of their kings has disrupted conflict resolution mechanisms and intelligence gathering vital for community security. Farming activities have also come to a halt in several towns due to increased insecurity.
The list of monarchs affected by abductions or attacks reflects a growing trend in the region. Notable cases include Oba Simeon Olanipekun (Oniwo of Afin), who was held captive for over a month before regaining freedom; Oba Segun Aremu-Cole (Olukoro of Koro-Ekiti), shot dead in his palace; and Oba Olufemi Adewumi (Ondo State), who was abducted and later killed. Others like Oba David Adebayo Fatoba (Alara of Ara-Ekiti) survived attacks but were forced into hiding.
Security agencies have yet to issue a comprehensive response to the crisis. However, traditional leaders are calling for urgent intervention from government to restore safety in rural areas and safeguard Nigeria’s traditional institutions. As at now, there has been no official comment from Kwara State Police Command on new measures to address the surge in attacks targeting monarchs. The situation remains tense as local leadership structures struggle to function amid ongoing threats.
Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/kwara-kings-flee-palaces-kidnap-list-2026061610140874407
Nigeria News (Standard)
Bayelsa, Rivers Schools Win Top Honours at MILO Atlantic Conference Finals
Victory marks first major trophy for both states in the regional schools’ sports competition this year
Victory marks first major trophy for both states in the regional schools’ sports competition this year
Schools from Bayelsa and Rivers States have emerged champions at the recently concluded MILO Atlantic Conference, clinching top positions in one of the region’s most competitive school sports events. The finals, which took place on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, brought together leading secondary schools from across Nigeria’s South-South zone.
The contest saw intense competition among participating schools, with Bayelsa and Rivers teams distinguishing themselves through standout performances in various sporting categories. The event, hosted at a designated venue within the region, attracted widespread attention from students, teachers and local sports officials.
The MILO Atlantic Conference has grown in significance over recent years, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and represent their states at national level. Stakeholders say achievements like these encourage youth participation in sports and help foster unity among communities in the Niger Delta.
While official statements from state education authorities were not immediately available as at press time, organisers commended all schools that took part for demonstrating strong sportsmanship and commitment. Some school officials expressed optimism that this victory would motivate more investment in grassroots sports development across Bayelsa and Rivers.
Attention will now shift to preparations for the national finals, where both states are expected to represent the Atlantic Conference. Observers note that success at this level could open opportunities for scholarships and further recognition for talented student-athletes.
