Nigeria News (Standard)
SSS Arraigns Former Plateau NBA Chairman Over WhatsApp Post in Jos
Security agency files charges against ex-bar leader for alleged online post; legal community expresses concern over implications for free speech
Security agency files charges against ex-bar leader for alleged online post; legal community expresses concern over implications for free speech
The State Security Service (SSS) has charged a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Plateau State branch, to court in Jos on Thursday, following an alleged post made on WhatsApp. The move by the security agency marks a notable development in the ongoing scrutiny of online speech by public figures in Nigeria.
According to court filings, the ex-NBA chairman is accused of sharing a message on the social media platform deemed objectionable by authorities. Details regarding the content of the post and the specific legal provisions cited have not been made public as at press time. The arraignment took place at a Jos magistrate court, with SSS officials present to oversee proceedings.
This case comes at a time when legal practitioners and civil rights advocates in Nigeria are increasingly raising alarm over perceived encroachments on digital rights and freedom of expression. Social media has become a major avenue for civic engagement and political commentary in Nigeria, but regulatory agencies have warned that certain posts can threaten national security or incite public disorder.
Neither the SSS nor representatives of the NBA Plateau branch issued immediate statements following Thursday’s court session. However, members of the local legal community have expressed concern about what they described as a growing trend of using security agencies to target critics and professionals for their online activities.
The case is expected to continue in coming weeks, with observers watching closely for its outcome and potential impact on how Nigerian authorities interpret laws related to online speech. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding Thursday’s development.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos Police Foil Attempted Abduction of Newborns by Woman Disguised as Nurse
Suspect apprehended after hospital staff raised alarm; incident highlights growing concerns over child abduction in health facilities
Suspect apprehended after hospital staff raised alarm; incident highlights growing concerns over child abduction in health facilities
A woman disguised as a nurse was apprehended at a Lagos hospital on Thursday after allegedly attempting to abduct newborn babies, according to reports from hospital authorities. The incident occurred within the premises of an undisclosed health centre in Lagos, where vigilant staff noticed suspicious behaviour and intervened promptly.
Eyewitnesses said the suspect, who was dressed in a nurse’s uniform, tried to blend in with regular hospital personnel before making her move towards the maternity ward. She reportedly attempted to take away two infants before being challenged by staff members, who quickly alerted security officers attached to the facility. The woman was subsequently detained pending further investigation.
Cases of child abduction from hospitals have become an increasing source of worry for many Nigerians, particularly in urban centres like Lagos. Health sector stakeholders have repeatedly called for tighter security measures and better verification processes for staff and visitors to prevent such incidents. Many families remain cautious about leaving their children unattended in public hospitals due to these fears.
Hospital management commended the vigilance of its staff and urged parents to always be on guard while within medical facilities. “Our team acted swiftly when they noticed something was amiss,” a senior official at the hospital stated. “We will continue to strengthen our protocols to protect patients and their families.” Efforts to reach Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer for additional comments were unsuccessful as at press time.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and the suspect will be handed over to law enforcement for possible prosecution. The incident has reignited discussions on the need for hospitals across Nigeria to enhance surveillance and ensure that only authorised personnel have access to sensitive wards.
Nigeria News (Standard)
CISLAC, HEDA Condemn Assault on Sowore and Mob Killing in Kaduna
Civil society groups urge government to ensure accountability after recent violence against journalist and mob victim
Civil society groups urge government to ensure accountability after recent violence against journalist and mob victim
Two leading Nigerian civil society organisations, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA), have strongly condemned the recent assault on journalist Omoyele Sowore as well as a mob killing incident in Kaduna State. The condemnations were made public on Thursday, following growing concerns over attacks on press freedom and rising cases of mob justice across the country.
The groups expressed alarm over the physical attack on Mr Sowore, who has been a vocal advocate for democracy and human rights in Nigeria. They also decried the reported lynching of a yet-to-be-identified individual by a mob in Kaduna, calling attention to the dangers such incidents pose to rule of law and public safety.
CISLAC and HEDA said these violent acts reflect a troubling pattern that undermines Nigeria’s democratic institutions. They stressed that both journalists and ordinary citizens must be protected from arbitrary violence if confidence in the justice system is to be restored. The organisations called on government at all levels to investigate both incidents thoroughly and bring perpetrators to book.
In their statements, CISLAC and HEDA urged security agencies to respect citizens’ rights while carrying out their duties. They also called for improved public enlightenment campaigns to discourage mob actions, which often result in the loss of innocent lives. Both groups reiterated that attacks on journalists threaten freedom of expression guaranteed by Nigeria’s Constitution.
The civil society bodies further appealed to lawmakers and policymakers to strengthen legal protections for journalists and introduce stiffer penalties for those found guilty of mob violence. They emphasised that justice must not only be done but seen to be done, warning that unchecked attacks could embolden others. As at press time, there was no official response from security agencies regarding investigations into either incident.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Access Holdings Executive Director Retires from Board, Company Announces Leadership Transition
Retirement marks significant change in Lagos-based financial institution’s board composition as company initiates succession planning
Retirement marks significant change in Lagos-based financial institution’s board composition as company initiates succession planning
Access Holdings Plc has announced the retirement of one of its executive directors from the company’s board, signalling a major leadership change within the Lagos-based financial group. The announcement was made public on Thursday, 25 June 2026, by the firm’s management.
According to information released by Access Holdings, the retirement of the executive director takes effect immediately and is part of an ongoing process to strengthen corporate governance and reposition the board for future growth. The company did not disclose the name of the outgoing executive director or provide details regarding their years of service at press time.
The move comes as Nigeria’s banking sector continues to undergo significant regulatory and market-driven changes, with increased focus on transparency and board renewal among listed companies. Access Holdings, which is one of Nigeria’s largest financial services groups with subsidiaries in banking, insurance and asset management, has consistently emphasised adherence to best practices in board appointments and retirements.
The company stated that it is already implementing a succession plan to ensure continuity and maintain investor confidence. While no official statement has been issued by shareholders or industry analysts regarding this development, Access Holdings noted that further information about the successor and any interim arrangements will be communicated in due course.
Industry watchers say such leadership transitions are not uncommon in Nigeria’s competitive financial sector, especially as institutions seek to align with Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) guidelines on board tenure and governance. The retirement is expected to pave way for new perspectives at Access Holdings as it continues to expand its footprint across Africa.
Lagos Police Foil Attempted Abduction of Newborns by Woman Disguised as Nurse
CISLAC, HEDA Condemn Assault on Sowore and Mob Killing in Kaduna
Access Holdings Executive Director Retires from Board, Company Announces Leadership Transition
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