Nigeria News (Standard)
Obasanjo Family Splits Over Yayi’s Ogun Governorship Bid Ahead of 2027 Polls
Division emerges within former President Obasanjo’s family as key members express differing support for APC’s Yayi in Ogun State
Division emerges within former President Obasanjo’s family as key members express differing support for APC’s Yayi in Ogun State
A sharp division has surfaced within the family of former President Olusegun Obasanjo regarding the governorship ambition of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, in Ogun State. The rift became public on Saturday, 27 June, as political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections intensify in the South-West state.
The disagreement reportedly centres around which candidate should receive the influential family’s backing for the upcoming governorship election. Some members are said to favour Yayi, who is a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and currently represents Ogun West Senatorial District. Others within the Obasanjo clan are believed to oppose his candidature, citing longstanding political loyalties and concerns about zoning arrangements in the state.
The Obasanjo family holds significant sway in Ogun politics due to their legacy and connections across party lines. Their divided position is expected to shape how political parties strategise, particularly as internal tussles continue within both APC and rival parties over ticket allocation and alliances. Political watchers say the family’s endorsement could be pivotal given their history of influencing electoral outcomes in Abeokuta and beyond.
As at press time, neither Senator Adeola nor any official spokesperson from the Obasanjo household had issued a public statement addressing the reported split. Efforts to reach representatives from both sides were unsuccessful. However, party insiders suggest that negotiations are ongoing to unify positions before formal campaigns commence later in the year.
The growing tension highlights not only intra-family political disagreements but also reflects broader debates about fairness and rotation of power among Ogun’s diverse communities. Observers expect further developments as stakeholders jostle for advantage ahead of what promises to be a highly contested governorship race.
Nigeria News (Standard)
DSS Releases Herdsman After Two-Year Detention, Awards ₦3 Million Compensation in Abuja
Security service frees wrongly detained herder, pays damages after lengthy incarceration without conviction
Security service frees wrongly detained herder, pays damages after lengthy incarceration without conviction
A herder who was held in custody by the Department of State Services (DSS) for two years has regained his freedom in Abuja, following a decision by the agency to release him and pay ₦3 million as compensation. The release took place on Saturday, marking the end of a prolonged detention that did not result in any conviction.
The herdsman, whose identity was not disclosed at the time of filing this report, had been wrongfully detained by the DSS since 2024. After a review of his case, authorities ordered his immediate release and awarded financial compensation to address the injustice he suffered during his time in detention.
This development comes amid ongoing national debates about human rights and due process in Nigeria’s security sector. Wrongful detentions have drawn criticism from civil society groups and legal practitioners who argue that such practices undermine public trust in law enforcement and violate constitutional protections.
While details of the circumstances leading to the herdsman’s initial arrest remain unclear, the DSS’s move to release him and provide monetary compensation signals an attempt by the agency to address past wrongs. No official statement had been issued by DSS spokespersons as at press time, and efforts to reach human rights advocates for comment were unsuccessful.
With this release and compensation, attention is expected to focus on whether security agencies will review similar cases across the country. Legal experts note that such incidents could set important precedents for accountability within Nigeria’s justice system, especially regarding pre-trial detentions without charge or conviction.
Nigeria News (Standard)
NAPTIP Rescues 64 Ebonyi Children Trafficked to Ghana and Libya
Agency says victims were intercepted at Nigeria’s borders, calls for stronger community vigilance against cross-border trafficking
Agency says victims were intercepted at Nigeria’s borders, calls for stronger community vigilance against cross-border trafficking
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has confirmed the rescue of 64 children and several other victims from Ebonyi State who were trafficked to Ghana and Libya. The operation, which took place across Nigeria’s borders, was disclosed by agency officials on Saturday.
According to NAPTIP, the victims were intercepted at different border points while being transported out of the country. The agency stated that its rapid intervention prevented the traffickers from successfully moving the children and others into forced labour or exploitation abroad.
Child trafficking remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with border states like Ebonyi identified as key transit points for smugglers targeting vulnerable communities. Security agencies have repeatedly warned that traffickers exploit economic hardship and lack of awareness to lure young people with false promises of better opportunities overseas.
A NAPTIP official emphasised the need for increased collaboration between security agencies, local communities, and state governments to combat trafficking. “We urge parents and community leaders to be vigilant and report any suspicious movement of children or youths,” the official said. No details were given on arrests made during the rescue operation.
The agency assured that all rescued victims are receiving counselling and rehabilitation support. Stakeholders in Ebonyi have called for more public sensitisation campaigns in rural areas to stem future incidents.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Cape Verde Coach Reveals Tactical Approach Ahead of World Cup Knockout Clash With Argentina
Island nation prepares for high-stakes encounter as coach outlines strategy to challenge defending champions in Round of 16
Island nation prepares for high-stakes encounter as coach outlines strategy to challenge defending champions in Round of 16
Cape Verde’s national team coach has outlined how his squad intends to face Argentina in their upcoming knockout phase match at the ongoing FIFA World Cup. The match, scheduled for Saturday, will see the Cape Verdeans take on the South American giants, who are reigning champions, in what promises to be a challenging fixture.
Speaking ahead of the crucial tie, the Cape Verde coach emphasised that his team is focused on maintaining tactical discipline and playing without fear. He stated that every player is aware of the magnitude of facing a team like Argentina, but insisted that they would not be overawed by their opponents’ reputation or previous achievements.
The encounter represents Cape Verde’s first appearance in the World Cup knockout stages, making it a historic moment for both the players and supporters back home. The coach said qualifying from the group stage has already inspired confidence within the squad, adding that they are motivated to prove themselves against top-tier opposition. He highlighted the need for collective effort and concentration throughout the ninety minutes, given Argentina’s attacking strength and experience at this level.
While he did not disclose specific tactical details, the Cape Verde coach assured fans that his side has prepared thoroughly for the match. He stressed that playing with belief and sticking to their game plan would be key to competing effectively. As anticipation builds among supporters across Africa, all eyes will be on whether Cape Verde can produce a memorable performance against one of football’s most decorated teams.
The winner of Saturday’s fixture will advance to the quarter-finals of the tournament, further raising the stakes for both sides.
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
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