Abacha Told Us He Was ReadyTo Tolerate Anything And Do Anything For Abiola – Oshiomhole

June 12, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has urged younger Nigerians to draw inspiration from late Chief Moshood Abiola’s steadfastness, noting that the June 12 struggle remains a lesson in integrity, sacrifice and commitment to democratic ideals.

Oshiomhole, a former Governor of Edo State, revealed that late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, was prepared to offer Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola anything in exchange for relinquishing his claim to the June 12, 1993 presidential mandate.

Oshiomhole made the disclosure on Friday, while delivering a lecture at the June 12 Democracy Day celebration held in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Speaking on the theme, “June 12 and Beyond: Reflecting on the Progress of Democracy and Security Concerns,” the former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) recounted his involvement in efforts to secure Abiola’s release during the military era.

According to him, he was part of NLC delegation that met with General Abacha in Abuja, following the annulment of the June 12 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll.

“General Abacha told us he was ready to tolerate anything and do anything for MKO Abiola.

“The one thing he was not ready to tolerate was the idea that Abiola had proclaimed himself President of Nigeria,” Oshiomhole said.

He noted that despite mounting pressure and several attempts to persuade Abiola to accept conditions for his freedom, the late politician remained resolute in defending the mandate given to him by Nigerians.

Oshiomhole recalled that government officials and intermediaries repeatedly urged Abiola to renounce his claim to the presidency in exchange for his release from detention, but he refused.

“He told those who sent us that he was elected President of Nigeria and would not sell the mandate entrusted to him by the Nigerian people,” Oshiomhole said.

The senator described Abiola’s stance as a demonstration of courage, patriotism and selflessness, stressing that the late business mogul chose principle over personal comfort and survival.

He pointed out that Abiola believed he could not betray the millions of Nigerians that sacrificed their time and livelihoods to vote for him during the historic election.

“Those market women, farmers, students and workers who queued to vote for him made sacrifices. He felt he could not monetise or compromise their sweat by accepting any condition other than the recognition of their mandate,” he added.

He described Abiola as a symbol of national unity whose victory transcended ethnic, religious and regional divides, adding that his legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

The event was attended by Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, traditional rulers, labour leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders.

Osun Federal, State Lawmakers Demand Transfer Of Commissioner Of Police

Ayodele Oni

June 12, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Ahead of the August governorship election in Osun state, federal and state legislators who are members of Accord Party in the state have demanded the immediate redeployment of the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Gotan.

He was accused of allegedly aiding the surge in politically motivated violent attacks against members of the ruling party in the state.

The Accord National and State Assembly Caucus, made up of seven members of the National Assembly and 25 members of the State Assembly, while addressing a press conference on Friday, accused Gotan of being a willing accomplice in the recent attacks on Accord members ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Consequently, the legislators called on the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to immediately remove the CP from Osun and ensure that sponsors and perpetrators of politically motivated attacks in the state are apprehended and prosecuted.

Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, read the text of the media briefing held in Osogbo, capital of the state, which was signed by Lere Oyewumi, Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District, Bamidele Salam,

Leader of the Osun Caucus in the House of Representatives and Egbedun.

They said there is “a dangerous and alarming plot that threatens the peace, stability, and democratic future of Osun State.

“The Accord caucus received credible intelligence indicating that the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji and leaders of the opposition party in Osun have concluded plans to orchestrate large scale violence across the state as citizens move closer to the state governorship election.

“The plan of the APC in Osun is to increase the current tempo of violent attacks on innocent members of the public and in particular members and supporters of Accord across the state in the next few weeks.

“The candidate and leaders of the party, having realised their electoral hopelessness and imminent woeful loss have hatched plots to unleash violence and mayhem in a scale that is unprecedented in Osun state.

“This includes plans to disrupt rallies, peaceful procession and campaign programmes of our Party.

“Very credible intelligence available to us suggests that this sinister plot includes targeted attacks at persons identified with the Accord, further destruction of billboards, vehicles and other property of prominent Accord leaders and political office holders in Osun State.

“The sinister plan which includes possible high-profile assassination will in their estimation prepare the ground for a declaration of state of emergency ahead of the conduct of the State Governorship election, already scheduled for the 15th of August.

“The objective, according to the information at our disposal, is to create a state of chaos and insecurity that could be used as a pretext to pressure the Federal Government into declaring a state of emergency in Osun State and subsequently appointment of their stooge as Administrator ahead of the governorship election.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is not political speculation, or hearsay. We consider the information before us serious enough to warrant immediate public attention and preventive action by relevant security agencies.

“In a recent meeting with some traditional rulers, a chieftain of the APC from the East Senatorial District likened the governorship aspiration of Mr Bola Oyebamiji to the story of some persons in the bible who forced their way through a roof to get what they wanted when all avenues are blocked.

” He boasted that the APC was determined to forcefully seize power by all means possible in Osun State.

“From all available indicators, it is evident that the APC candidate and his handlers have become increasingly apprehensive about his electoral prospects in Osun State.

“Rather than submitting himself to the democratic verdict of the people, information available to us points to a panicky resort to violence as a means of achieving political objectives no matter the number of lives that have to go for it.

“Regrettably, such actions do not represent what politics should be, but rather a direct assault on democracy and an act of terror against innocent citizens whose only desire is to participate peacefully in the electoral process.

“These posture and acts of desperation are unfortunate, disgraceful and outrightly condemnable by all persons of good conscience.

“Only a few weeks ago, Mr Kolade Eluyera, an Accord member in Irewole Local Government Area, was brutally murdered. Similarly, on June 3, 2026, the Chairman of Accord in Osogbo Local Government, Hon Asimiyu Ajibola, was shot multiple times by armed assailants and remains hospitalized while battling for his life.

“The only crime of those who were most recently shot by the APC thugs in Ile-Ife, Owode-Ede and Osogbo was that they wore branded caps of the Accord.

“Unfortunately, these incidents form part of a growing pattern of violence that has generated fear and anxiety among citizens across the state.

“Regrettably, the Police in Osun state appears a willing accomplice in the execution of the unlawful plans which have begun to unfold.

“We find it difficult to understand how crimes committed in broad daylight, in branded vehicles, caught on tapes would not be tracked and perpetrators arrested 72 hours after those shootings.

“The apparent inability to identify, apprehend, and prosecute perpetrators has emboldened criminal elements and increased public concerns regarding the safety of lives and property in Osun State.

“We wish to put it on record that since his assumption of office on the 11th of May, 2025, the state Commissioner of Police has not deemed it fit to attend the state Security Council meeting more than twice!

“On all other occasions, he either sent some retired personnel or persons junior to other service commanders to represent him.

“The orchestrated attempt of the CP to incapacitate the Amotekun Corps is another clear danger to the security of our people in Osun State, especially now that cases of kidnapping and banditry are on the rise in different parts of the country.

“While hundreds of Accord party campaign billboards were vandalised by known miscreants without a single arrest, the Commissioner of Police was busy trying to stop the holding of campaign by our party men in parts of the state.

“The Police Commissioner, from all indications, has become an accomplice to the plans to turn our state upside down and hand our democratic institutions to hijackers and state captors. This is clearly unexpected, unacceptable, and very unfortunate.

“On the account of the foregoing, we hereby call on the Inspector General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu to immediately redeploy the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Mr Ibrahim Gothan who has shown himself partisan, highly compromised and incapable of providing effective security support for the people of Osun State.

“We call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of persons linked with the various crimes perpetrated against members and supporters of the Accord in various parts of Osun state especially in the last 3 months.

“We call on Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu to issue a clear directive to security agencies in Osun state to maintain neutrality, professionalism and zero tolerance for all forms of violence before, during and after the August 15th Governorship Election.

“We urge the Civil Society, the Media, the National Peace Committee and the International Community to pay closer attention to events in Osun State as we move closer to the off-cycle Governorship election holding on the 15th day of August.”

Reacting to the initial allegations of sponsoring thugs to attack Accord members, Wole Oke, the Director General of APC Campaign Council, had during a press conference held in Osogbo, denied attacking Accord members, accusing the ruling party of attacking APC members and hoarding thugs at the State Government House.

Lere Oyewumi, also denied this claim during the Friday press conference.

State Police: Ondo Ready, Structure Already Built – Gov Aiyedatiwa

Ayodele Oni

June 12, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

As the bill for the creation of state police scaled first legislative hurdle, Ondo state government has announced readiness to kickstart the security outfit.

The bill was passed on Thursday by the House of Representatives.

The state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, spoke in Akure on Friday during the 33rd anniversary of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.

On the state police, the Governor declared that Ondo State is fully prepared for the proposed initiative.

“For us in Ondo State, we’ve been ready a long time. Even during the time of my late predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwaroritimi Akeredolu, SAN, the structure that had been built, which I’ve also further strengthened.

“We have the structure, we have the people and all that is left for the approval of needed weapons and equipment.

“Yes, we have some equipment already that the law permits. But we need to further fortify them with more sophisticated equipment that will make them to be more effective and functional in the charge of their duty”, he said.

At the ceremony, Aiyedatiwa, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and elder statesman, the Olu-Abo of Ilu-Abo, Oba Olu Falae, called for deeper democratic reforms, stronger security coordination and sustained commitment to democratic governance.

The event, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Igbatoro Road, Akure, attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, youths, civil society organisations and security agencies in a broad-based commemoration of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history and a continuing benchmark for credible elections anchored on accountability, rule of law and public trust.

He stressed that democracy is not a finished project but an evolving process requiring constant strengthening of institutions.

He noted that the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, remained the clearest expression of the people’s will and should serve as a reference point for electoral integrity and democratic conduct.

According to him, the anniversary offered an opportunity for sober reflection on Nigeria’s democratic trajectory, particularly as the country moves towards another election cycle in 2027 amid persistent security challenges.

The Governor warned that insecurity remains a direct threat to democratic consolidation, stating that violence, fear and instability weaken civic participation and erode public confidence in governance.

He maintained that democracy cannot thrive where citizens are intimidated or unsafe.

He paid tribute to Oba Olu Falae, describing him as a respected elder statesman and enduring voice in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

He also commended Oshiomhole for what he described as an insightful lecture drawn from lived experience in labour activism and governance.

Reaffirming June 12 as a national benchmark for credible elections and unity, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted ongoing federal efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly security coordination through the National Security Council and inter-agency collaboration.

On state security architecture, he reaffirmed commitment under the OUR EASE Agenda to strengthening safety, infrastructure development and welfare-driven governance.

He disclosed that the Amotekun Corps had been strengthened through enrolment into the Contributory Pension Scheme, introduction of medical allowances, and recruitment of 500 additional personnel to improve operational capacity.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the measures were aimed at closing security gaps and sustaining peace across the state, stressing that development cannot thrive in insecurity.

He sympathised with victims of recent attacks and abductions in the country and called for collective action against insecurity.

He urged Nigerians to approach the 2027 elections with civility, insisting that eligible voters must participate freely without intimidation or violence, and that every vote must count.

Labour Party Felicitates Nigerians On Democracy Day

The Source

June 12, 2026

As Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora commemorate this year’s Democracy Day, the Labour Party has extended its warm felicitations to all citizens and joins the nation in celebrating the enduring journey of democratic governance in our country.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the Party said:

“Today offers us yet another opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by our heroes past, especially the late Chief MKO Abiola and countless other patriots whose struggles, courage and ultimate sacrifices laid the foundation for the democracy we now enjoy. We must ensure that their labours were not in vain.

“While it is true that Nigeria’s democratic journey has been marked by unfulfilled aspirations and missed opportunities, we must not surrender to despair. Rather, we should remain hopeful and resolute, knowing that the future still holds greater possibilities than whatever may have been lost along the way.

“Democracy, despite its imperfections and occasional contradictions, remains the best form of government known to mankind. Not merely because it affords citizens the opportunity to periodically elect leaders of their choice, but more importantly because it remains the most participatory system of governance ever devised, one that places the people at the centre of public affairs.

“We urge those at the helm of affairs to do more to address the pressing challenges confronting Nigerians, including insecurity, economic hardship, hunger, unemployment and the deficit in critical infrastructure. The dividends of democracy must be felt by the ordinary citizen whose welfare remains the ultimate justification for government.

“As a political party, the Labour Party’s guiding principle of Equal Opportunity and Social Justice speaks directly to the very ideals upon which democracy is founded. A democracy that fails to guarantee a level playing field for all citizens and political actors is merely a distorted and pretentious version of democratic governance.

“As the nation gradually approaches another electoral cycle, the Labour Party enjoins Nigerians not to lose faith in the possibility of a better country. We remain committed to providing a credible platform through which the aspirations of the Nigerian people can be realised.

“From the legislative chambers to the presidency, the party has continued to entrust its mandate to men and women of proven character, competence and capacity, individuals capable of rewriting the Nigerian story and leading our nation towards greater prosperity, justice and national renewal.

“Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria!”

Rubber Stamp Legislature Is Big Threat To Survival Of Democracy – Saraki Fmr Senate President

Suleiman Anyalewechi

June 12, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has insisted that a lame duck and subservient legislature remains the greatest threat to the survival of any democracy in the world.

Senator Saraki who spoke at the occasion of this year’s June 12, edition of “The Platform” organized by the Covenant Nation to mark the Democracy Day, emphasized that democratic arrangements can only flourish amidst an independent legislature, with the capacity to hold other branches of Government, especially the Executive accountable.

Saraki who presided over the affairs of the Nigerian Senate between 2015 and 2019 maintained that a vibrant and Independent legislature, with the requisite courage and institutional capacity to interrogate executive actions remains pivotal to the existence of true democracy.

The former Senate President argued that the constitutional roles of the legislature transcends the mere approval of budgets, bills and policy frameworks transmitted by the executive branch of Government.

According to him, a legislative chamber that does not have the courage to question executive proposals is no legislature.

“What I learnt during my four years at the National Assembly is that a legislature that cannot say no is not a legislature at all.

“A legislature that simply receives executive proposals, approves them without scrutiny, and goes home has failed in its constitutional responsibilities.

“It has merely performed a ceremonial function. It becomes an echo chamber and a democracy made only of echoes is only one election away from becoming something entirely different”, Saraki noted.

Saraki insisted that the most potent threat to any democratic order is not weak Government, but an unchecked authority.

Democracy and democratic institutions, according to him, become vulnerable and vanquishable, when political office holders are made to operate without constructive control, through criticisms, oversights and accountability.

“The greatest danger to a free people is not a weak Government, but an unchecked Government, authority that answers to no one, and cannot be questioned”, Saraki added.

While acknowledging that the three arms Government could collaborate to deliver good governance, the former Senate President, however, warned against a subservient legislature that has the potential to lead to abuse of executive power, leading to the imperilment of democracy.

He emphasized that the framers of the three arms of Government were guided by the need to prevent over concentration of power in one institution, with the primary aim of protecting the people from abuse.

Saraki, who is also a former Governor of Kwara state, strongly rejected claims suggesting that routine disagreements between the Legislature and executive arms of Government will lead to political instability.

He rather believes that such occasional institutional frictions are necessary both for the protection of the rights of the citizens, and democracy itself, adding that the checks and balances are indispensable ingredients for the survival of true democracy.

“People do sometimes ask why the executive and legislature are always in disagreement. The answer is simple: by constitutional design, they are meant to challenge each other so there can be accountability, and balance in governance.

“Institutional frictions are built into the system on purpose. It was not a mistake. That friction is not dysfunction: it is the very thing that guarantees citizens’ freedom”. Saraki noted.

The former Senate President, therefore, warned that any attempts to undermine, weaken and or transform the legislature into a subordinate institution will ultimately erode democracy ,and endanger the freedom of citizens.

Referencing ,the infamous annulment of June 12, 1993, presidential election, Saraki noted that such an ugly development is one of the unwholesome activities that can rear their heads when democratic institutions are too weak to defend the will and aspirations of the people.

“Nigerians lost democratic arrangement in 1993 not on account of failure to participate actively, but principally because of the complete absence of strong institutional frameworks to protect the people’s democratic mandate.

” On this June 12, the lesson is clear. We did not lose democracy in 1993 because the people failed. We lost it because the institutions that should have defended the people’s mandate were too weak to do so.

“The solution, therefore, is not less politics. The solution is stronger institutions, and the legislature occupies a central place in that process”, the former Senate President submitted.

Edo Reopens Schools Shut Over Security Concerns

Suleiman Anyalewechi

June 12, 2026

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Edo State Government has directed the reopening of schools shut in the wake of security alert last week.

The Source reports that the state Government had, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, ordered the immediate closure of three schools in the Akoko-Edo Local Council Area, Edo North Senatorial District.

According to a circular from the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, Enodolomwanyi Otamere, the affected schools were Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.

The closure was sequel to a security intelligence from the Department of State Service, warning of imminent attacks on, and abduction of pupils and students by suspected terrorist elements.

The security advisory had indicated that suspected bandits and terrorists had planned the abduction of school children mainly in the Edo North, and had perceived the exercise as being more financially rewarding than the seizure of wealthy and influential figures.

But the Edo State Government in a counter notice issued, directed the affected schools to resume operations on Monday June 15, 2026.

The notice signed by Mrs Otamere, informed that the development followed a review of the security situation by the authorities in concert with security agencies.

According to her, enhanced security measures have been put in place to adequately monitor situation and protect the schools.

“The decision to reopen the schools followed a comprehensive review of the security situation by the state Government in collaboration with relevant security agencies and other stakeholders.

“Consequently, all public and private schools affected by the earlier closure order have been directed to resume normal academic and administrative activities from June 15″ 2026”, the statement reads in part.

This was as the Education Ministry directed school heads, proprietors and education authorities to equally make adequate preparations for the seamless resumption of students and staff .

They are also enjoined to work closely with security agencies, community leaders, Government officials and relevant stakeholders for the purpose of sustaining a secure and conducive learning environment.

The statement similarly, appealed to parents and guardians to ensure the return of their children and wards, assuring of the safety and protection of the returning students.

State Police Bill: Govs Have Limited Powers; Civil Society, NLC, NUJ To Provide Oversight

James Orji

June 12, 2026

In line with Nigerians demand, the House of Representatives passed the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

The bill, which intends to amend several sections of the 1999 constitution, provides a framework for the creation, funding, regulation and operation of state police services while retaining the federal police as a national institution.

Among other provisions, the bill gives governors the power to appoint commissioners of police, creates state police service commissions, limits federal interference in state policing, and allows the federal government to provide grants to state police.

Calls for the establishment of state police have been renewed following the recent nationwide spike in insecurity.

Here are some of the key provisions of the bill.

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO SET STANDARDS FOR STATE POLICE

Section 214 provides that the national assembly shall prescribe the structure, organisation, administration and powers of the federal police and establish guidelines for the establishment of state police.

A state police service will only become operational after a state house of assembly passes a law establishing it, and it is certified to meet national minimum standards.

Implication

This means state governments will not have unrestricted powers to establish police services.

States will be required to comply with nationally prescribed standards before their police outfits can begin operations, creating uniform benchmarks across the federation.

FEDERAL POLICE TO CONTINUE OPERATING ALONGSIDE STATE POLICE

The bill provides that even after state police become operational, the federal police will continue to perform federal policing functions and may assist state police when necessary.

The federal police will also continue to maintain public security throughout the federation to the extent provided by law.

Implication

The proposal does not abolish the existing police structure. Instead, it creates a dual policing arrangement in which federal and state police will coexist, similar to systems practised in several federal countries.

FEDERAL POLICE CANNOT INTERFERE IN STATES

Under section 214(6), the federal police cannot interfere in the operations or internal security affairs of a state except in limited circumstances.

These include situations in which there is a complete breakdown of law and order, when a governor requests intervention, or when a state police service becomes ineffective due to administrative or financial problems. Any intervention must first receive approval from the National Police Council.

Implication

The provision prevents arbitrary federal control over state police and requires the approval of the National Police Council before federal intervention can occur.

GOVERNORS TO APPOINT COMMISSIONERS OF POLICE

Section 215 provides that a state police service shall be headed by a commissioner of police appointed by the governor on the advice of the National Police Council and subject to confirmation by the state house of assembly.

Governors may also issue lawful directives relating to public safety and order.

However, where a commissioner of police believes such directives are unlawful or contrary to policing standards, the matter may be referred to the National Police Council, whose decision will be final.

Implication

The provision gives governors operational authority over state police while creating safeguards against political abuse.

Commissioners of police will have an avenue to challenge directives considered unlawful or inconsistent with professional standards.

PRESIDENT TO APPOINT INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

The bill retains the existing structure at the federal level by providing that the president shall appoint the inspector-general of police on the advice of the National Police Council and subject to confirmation by the national assembly.

The IGP will remain the head of the federal police and command all federal contingents stationed across the states.

Implication

The federal police will continue to maintain a central chain of command, preserving the federal government’s authority over national security matters.

INSPECTOR-GENERAL, STATE CPs CANNOT BE REMOVED ARBITRARILY

Section 216 stipulates that the inspector-general of police may be removed only on grounds including grave misconduct, breach of regulations, conviction for fraud-related offences, bankruptcy, or mental incapacity.

Such removal must be recommended by the National Police Council and approved by a two-thirds majority of the national assembly.

Similarly, a state commissioner of police may only be removed by a governor upon the recommendation of the National Police Council and with the approval of two-thirds of the state house of assembly.

Implication

The provision seeks to protect police chiefs from arbitrary dismissal.

Governors and the president will not have unilateral powers to remove commissioners of police or the inspector-general without institutional checks.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MAY PROVIDE GRANTS TO STATE POLICE

Section 216A provides that the federal government shall provide grants or aid to state police on the recommendation of the National Police Council and subject to the approval of the national assembly.

Implication

This provision recognises that some states may struggle to finance policing.

It also creates a mechanism through which the federal government can support state police without taking over their operations.

STATES CAN ADOPT HIGHER STANDARDS

The amendment empowers state houses of assembly to enact laws relating to the organisation, funding and oversight of state police.

However, such laws cannot prescribe standards below the minimum standards set by the national assembly. States may adopt standards higher than those prescribed nationally.

Implication

States will enjoy flexibility in designing their policing systems, but minimum national standards will ensure consistency and professionalism.

FEDERAL AUTHORITIES BARRED FROM ROUTINE CONTROL OF STATE POLICE

The bill expressly provides that no act of the national assembly shall confer routine powers of command, deployment, appointment, transfer, suspension or disciplinary control over members of state police on any federal authority.

Exceptions are limited to constitutional provisions relating to federal intervention.

Implication

This provision is intended to preserve the autonomy of state police services.

It seeks to ensure that federal oversight does not translate into routine operational control.

NATIONAL POLICE COUNCIL TO HAVE BROADER MEMBERSHIP

The proposal replaces the Nigeria Police Council with a National Police Council and expands its membership.

The body will include representatives of the federal police, attorneys-general of the states, retired senior police officers, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Public Complaints Commission, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigerian Union of Journalists and traditional rulers.

The council will also supervise both federal and state police to the extent permitted by the constitution.

Implication

The expanded composition is designed to provide broader representation and civilian oversight in policing matters. It also reduces the concentration of power in a few institutions.

STATE POLICE SERVICE COMMISSIONS TO BE ESTABLISHED

The bill creates State Police Service Commissions under section 197.

The commissions will include representatives of the NHRC, the Public Complaints Commission, the NLC, the NBA, the NUJ, and traditional rulers, as well as retired police officers.

They will recommend candidates for appointment as commissioners of police and exercise disciplinary powers over officers below the rank of assistant commissioner.

In recommending a commissioner of police, each commission will submit three qualified candidates to the National Police Council.

Implication

The provision introduces multiple layers of oversight and participation in appointments. It also aims to prevent excessive concentration of powers in governors by involving several institutions in the process.

STATES TO HAVE LIMITED POWERS OVER FIREARMS

The amendment to the exclusive legislative list permits the use of light arms for policing purposes.

It also allows state police services access to fingerprints, biometric data, forensic records and criminal information systems in accordance with federal laws.

Implication

The provision provides legal backing for state police to carry out modern policing functions while maintaining national coordination on intelligence and records management.

The Cable

Power Belongs To Allah, Re-election Not DO-or-Die Affair — Gov Abba Yusuf

The Source

June 12, 2026

By Lamara Garba

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared that his political future, including the question of re-election in 2027, rests entirely in the hands of Almighty Allah, stressing that political power is neither a matter of life and death nor something that any individual can permanently give or take away.

Governor Yusuf made the remarks while addressing Kano pilgrims and Hajj officials in Makkah during a Sallah visit on Wednesday.

Speaking before hundreds of pilgrims, the Governor who quoted from the verses of the Holy Qur’an, reminding the faithful that ultimate authority belongs to Allah alone, who grants power to whom He wills and withdraws it whenever He pleases.

According to him, while politicians and their supporters often become consumed by political calculations and permutations, true believers understand that leadership is a divine trust bestowed by Allah at His own appointed time.

“Power belongs to Allah alone. He gives leadership to whom He wills and takes it away from whom He wills. No human being can stop what Allah has destined, and no one can impose what Allah has not ordained,” Governor Yusuf said.

The Governor noted that he remains completely submissive to the will of Allah regarding future political developments, including his possible re-election, insisting that his focus remains on serving the people of Kano State diligently rather than becoming distracted by political anxiety.

He stressed that elective office should never be viewed as a do-or-die affair, adding that public service is only meaningful when carried out with sincerity, fear of God and commitment to the welfare of the people.

“Leadership is not a matter of life and death. What matters most is to serve humanity, discharge one’s responsibilities faithfully and leave the rest to Allah. Whatever Allah decrees will surely come to pass,” he stated.

Governor Yusuf, however, urged Kano citizens to remain politically conscious and actively participate in the democratic process by ensuring that they possess valid voter cards ahead of future elections.

He called on those whose voter cards require renewal to do so promptly and encouraged eligible citizens who have not yet registered to take advantage of the registration window before it closes.

The Governor said voter registration remains a civic responsibility that enables citizens to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders and contribute to the growth and development of society.

He also appealed to the pilgrims to continue praying for peace, unity, stability and prosperity in Kano State and Nigeria as a whole.

Observers believe Governor Yusuf’s remarks reflect growing confidence within his administration following what many regard as remarkable achievements recorded over the past three years in education, healthcare, infrastructure development, agriculture, human capital development, as well as women and youth empowerment.

The Governor maintained that while political debates and speculations may continue, the final decision on who occupies positions of authority remains with Almighty Allah, whose decree cannot be altered by any human effort.

Democracy Has Provided Us With Unifying, Collective Choices, Says Uzodimma

The Source

June 12, 2026

As Nigeria marks 27 years of unbroken democratic practice, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has said that the system has provided the citizenry with choices that are not only unifying and collective, but has given rise to the achievements the country has recorded so far.

Uzodimma, Chairman of Progressive Governors’ Forum and Director General of Renewed Hope Ambassadors therefore invited Nigerians to keep faith in the Country’s democratic system in general, and the President Bola Tinubu’s administration in particular, by supporting his progressive ideals and reforms that have aided the promotion of national unity, stability and development.

Governor Uzodimma’s Democray Day message which he took to his social media handle to send to Nigerians said: “From a just system of governance to the practice of inclusiveness in the journey of our national development, democracy has presented us with choices that are unifying and collective, giving rise to the achievements we have recorded thus far.

“As a people, we have continued to strengthen the foundations of nation-building through participation, dialogue, and a shared commitment to progress.

“While enormous gaps remain to be filled in the development of our nation, we can not deny the fact that we have achieved greatness.

“We have built and sustained a system driven by the people, and with each passing day, we improve upon the efforts of the previous one.

“Our democratic journey has not been without challenges, but it has consistently demonstrated our resilience, determination, and capacity for growth.

“Under the #RenewedHope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a steadfast democrat and one of the heroes of the democracy we enjoy today, we have witnessed transformative reforms across various sectors. These reforms are focused on positioning Nigeria to offer hope, opportunities, and assurance of growth for every Nigerian.

“As we commemorate Democracy Day, let us keep faith alive in the system we are building and continue to support progressive ideals that promote the unity, stability, and development of our nation.

“Happy Democracy Day.”

Nigeria returned to democratic rule 27 years ago on May 29, 1999, after many years of political dislocations occasioned by military interventions.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) government under the leadership of the late President Muhammad Buhari had changed the date of Nigeria’s Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12 in honour of Chief MKO Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled 1993 Presidential election believed nationally and globally to be free, fair and credible.

Tinubu Names University After Late Major General Yar’Adua, Finally Remembers Joe Igbokwe

Akinwale Kasali

June 12, 2026

By Akinwale Kasali

President Bola Tinubu has honoured the memory of the late Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.

During his address to the Nation on June 12 to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the President announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, to General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

Yar’Adua died in captivity while serving a jail term under the late maximum Head of State, for a purported aborted coup aimed at removing him, Abacha, from office.

Among those awarded National Honours was Joe Igbokwe a staunch believer in President Tinubu and an All Progressives Congress, APC, Chieftain, who he seemed to have ignored since his presidency. Igbokwe, to his relief, is among the over 50 people whose names were contained in the list of awardees.

President Tinubu had during his Democracy Day Broadcast conferred National Honours on the aforementioned, that includes; Prominent media icons, pro-democracy activists, and retired military officers who fought against military dictatorship during the historic June 12 struggle.

This year Democracy Day marks 27 years of uninterrupted Democratic Rule, in which President Tinunu paid tributes to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, and other icons.

He stated that while Nigeria’s democracy is not perfect, it remains the ultimate vehicle for national development.

Igbokwe alongside members of National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, chieftains Chief Ayo Opadokun, Chief Ralph Obioha, and Dr. Arthur Nwankwo (posthumous); media veterans Lade Bonuola, Femi Kusa, Sir Ademola Osinubi, and Dele Alake; and activists Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Richard Akinnola, and Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine.

The President, also, recognized “soldier-democrats” who opposed military junta regimes, including retired Colonels Sambo Dasuki, a former National Security Adviser during the President Goodluck Jonathan Government, Lawan Gwadabe, Major-General Ishola Williams, the Etsu Nupe, Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar.

Addressing the nation’s security challenges, particularly recent student abductions in Oyo and Borno states, President Tinubu declared that democracy without security is a mirage, revealing that the 2026 budget commits a record 5.41 trillion Naira to defense alongside the recruitment of over 50,000 police officers.

He however warned bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror to surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State, andbthe wrath of the law, noting that windows of surrender will not remain open forever, though terror-related deaths have dropped by 81% since 2015 with over 13,000 terrorists neutralized in the past year.

Speaking on the economic situationof the country, the President defended his administration’s aggressive reforms as a necessity to salvage public finances, stating that the next phase of his administration is to ensure that democracy is felt in the pocket of everyday citizens by tackling inflation and boosting local production.

He stated that in resolving the chronic electricity crisis, the President announced that the Presidential Power Sector Task Force has been authorized to raise a 4 trillion Naira bond to clear legacy debts drowning the power value chain, adding that the Electricity Act, which decentralizes power generation to states, is already yielding results.

Reaffirming his commitment to grassroots development, while emphasizing his administration’s push for full financial autonomy for the 774 local government areas, attributing the rise in rural insecurity to the collapse of local governance.

He also urged the political class and institutions to protect democratic guardrails ahead of the upcoming Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, the President stated that while the generation of the nation’s founding fathers secured independence and the generation of June 12 secured democracy, the current generation must now secure prosperity.

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