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Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Secures Re-Election in 2026 Polls Amid Low Voter Turnout

Oyebanji’s victory cements APC’s hold on Ekiti; opposition parties question conduct, call for review of electoral process

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Oyebanji’s victory cements APC’s hold on Ekiti; opposition parties question conduct, call for review of electoral process

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has emerged victorious in the 2026 governorship election held across the state on Saturday, securing a second term in office under the All Progressives Congress (APC). The election, which took place in all 16 local government areas of the South-West state, was characterised by low voter turnout and heightened security presence.

Collation of results from polling units and wards was concluded late Saturday night, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announcing Oyebanji as winner after he garnered the highest number of valid votes. The APC candidate’s margin over his closest rivals was described by observers as significant, consolidating his party’s grip on the state’s political landscape.

This victory is seen as a major boost for the APC ahead of the next general elections, given Ekiti’s strategic position in the South-West zone. Political analysts note that Oyebanji’s performance in his first term—especially in infrastructure development and public sector reforms—played a key role in swaying voters. However, several opposition parties have raised concerns about aspects of the electoral process, citing alleged irregularities and urging INEC to address complaints submitted by their agents.

In his post-election remarks, Governor Oyebanji thanked Ekiti people for renewed confidence in his leadership. “I am grateful for this mandate and will continue to prioritise development and good governance,” he stated after receiving his certificate of return from INEC officials. The PDP and Labour Party, meanwhile, issued statements contesting some results and calling for a review. “We are compiling evidence of alleged irregularities observed by our members across several LGAs,” a PDP spokesperson said.

The outcome is expected to shape political alignments in Ekiti ahead of national elections. INEC has pledged to review petitions submitted within the legal window while security agencies advised citizens to remain calm as the process moves forward.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/889512-ekitidecides2026-how-oyebanji-won-his-re-election.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

Troops Overrun Bandits’ Camp in Kogi, Rescue Two Kidnap Victims

Operation in Koton Karfe LGA follows recent abductions; military vows to sustain pressure on criminal groups

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June 21, 2026

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Operation in Koton Karfe LGA follows recent abductions; military vows to sustain pressure on criminal groups

Nigerian Army troops have dismantled a suspected bandits’ hideout in Koton Karfe Local Government Area of Kogi State, rescuing two kidnapped victims during an operation on Sunday. The military confirmed the rescue and destruction of the camp as part of ongoing efforts to curb armed criminality in the North-Central state.

According to official statements, soldiers stormed the camp after receiving intelligence about the presence of armed men believed to be responsible for recent kidnappings along key roads linking Kogi with neighbouring states. The rescued individuals were immediately given medical attention and reunited with their families, while troops recovered various items left behind by fleeing suspects.

Kogi State has witnessed a surge in bandit activities and abductions along highways and rural communities in recent months, raising concerns among residents and travellers. Security agencies have intensified joint operations in affected LGAs, targeting hideouts used by criminal gangs for ransom-related crimes.

A military spokesperson said the operation demonstrates government’s resolve to restore peace and secure lives across all parts of Kogi. “Our troops are working round the clock to ensure that bandits and other criminals are denied any safe haven within the state,” the spokesperson noted. No details were provided about arrests or casualties among the suspects.

Security forces pledged to maintain aggressive patrols and appealed for continued cooperation from local communities, urging residents to report suspicious movements. The rescued victims expressed gratitude for their safe release, while authorities assured that similar operations would continue until all criminal elements are flushed out from Kogi’s forests.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889528-troops-overrun-bandits-camp-in-kogi-rescue-two-victims-official.html

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Nigeria News (Standard)

House Minority Caucus Appoints Afam Ogene as Spokesperson in Abuja Shakeup

Appointment comes as opposition seeks stronger voice ahead of critical legislative debates in National Assembly

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June 21, 2026

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Appointment comes as opposition seeks stronger voice ahead of critical legislative debates in National Assembly

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has appointed Afam Ogene, representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State, as its new spokesperson. The announcement was made on Sunday in Abuja, marking a significant move by opposition lawmakers to strengthen their communication strategy ahead of key legislative sessions.

The decision to appoint Ogene was reached during a meeting of Minority Caucus members, who resolved that improved coordination and public engagement were needed as the National Assembly enters a period expected to be marked by high-stakes debates on national issues. The selection signals the caucus’s intent to project a more unified front in interactions with both the media and the Nigerian public.

Ogene’s appointment comes at a time when opposition parties are under increased pressure to hold government accountable and articulate alternative policy proposals. As spokesperson, he is expected to serve as the primary liaison for all official communications from the caucus, including responses to legislative developments and government pronouncements.

While no official statement has been released by Ogene following his appointment, sources within the Minority Caucus indicated that he will begin his duties immediately, starting with briefings on upcoming legislative priorities. The caucus leadership said it expects Ogene’s experience and familiarity with parliamentary procedures to help sharpen opposition messaging in the House.

The Minority Caucus has also hinted at further appointments and strategic planning sessions aimed at consolidating its position ahead of anticipated debates on budget allocations, electoral reforms, and other pressing national matters.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/889515-minority-caucus-appoints-afam-ogene-as-spokesperson.html

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Reps Minority Caucus Accuses House Spokesperson of Misrepresenting Executive Defence in Abuja

Opposition lawmakers challenge official narrative, demand clarification on House of Representatives’ position over executive matters

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June 21, 2026

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Opposition lawmakers challenge official narrative, demand clarification on House of Representatives’ position over executive matters

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has accused the official spokesperson of the lower chamber of misrepresenting the House’s position on executive defence matters. The development unfolded in Abuja on Sunday, 21 June 2026, as opposition lawmakers publicly questioned recent statements attributed to the House’s spokesperson regarding the legislature’s stance on issues involving the executive arm of government.

According to details made available, members of the Minority Caucus raised concerns that comments by the spokesperson did not accurately reflect deliberations or decisions taken by the broader House. They insisted that such statements risked misleading Nigerians and misrepresenting the position of elected representatives, particularly regarding oversight functions and defence of executive actions.

This dispute comes at a time when relations between Nigeria’s National Assembly and the presidency have drawn increased public scrutiny. Many observers see robust legislative oversight as critical for deepening democratic accountability, especially amid ongoing debates over checks and balances between arms of government.

The Minority Caucus called for greater transparency and adherence to established procedures when communicating official positions. “We urge all principal officers to ensure their public statements are in line with resolutions reached during plenary and reflect consensus among lawmakers,” a member stated during a briefing in Abuja.

As at press time, no formal response had been issued by the House spokesperson or other principal officers. The Minority Caucus urged Speaker Tajudeen Abbas (APC, Kaduna) to intervene and clarify the official position of the House on executive-related matters moving forward. This incident is likely to intensify discussions about internal communication protocols within Nigeria’s federal legislature.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/889513-minority-caucus-accuses-reps-spokesperson-of-misrepresenting-house-in-executive-defence.html

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