Author: Atoyebi Adenike
By Atoyebi Nike Iran’s judiciary has confirmed the execution of a man convicted of espionage for Israel’s intelligence agency, Mossad, as tensions between the two rival nations intensify with deadly cross-border attacks. According to an official report by Mizan Online, the judiciary’s news outlet, Esmaeil Fekri was executed on Monday after being found guilty of serious charges, including “corruption on Earth” and “moharebeh” an Islamic legal term meaning “waging war against God.” The sentence was carried out following the completion of all judicial processes and was upheld by Iran’s Supreme Court, the report noted. Fekri’s execution comes as both nations…
By Atoyebi Nike The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Youth and Media Mobilisation, Mr. Atu Joseph, has placed two of his top aides, Chief of Staff Mr. John Ukeyima and Chief Press Secretary Mr. Lubem Terkula on indefinite suspension for participating in a protest deemed contrary to state directives. The action, effective June 14, 2025, was formally communicated in a letter dated June 15. Joseph accused both aides of insubordination and a violation of official trust, citing their presence at a youth-led demonstration in Makurdi that condemned the escalating violence in the state. “This decision…
By Atoyebi Nike Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has arrived in Benue State and ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical teams following a series of brutal attacks that have left scores of people dead. The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the development on Monday in a terse post on its official X account: “IGP arrives Benue, orders for additional deployment of tactical teams.” The move follows a wave of violence believed to have been carried out by suspected herders in Guma Local Government Area, with local authorities confirming at least 45 deaths. However, community leaders and eyewitnesses suggest the actual…
By Atoyebi Nike President Bola Tinubu addressed a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday to mark Democracy Day 2025. In the speech, he reflected on Nigeria’s journey since 1999, paid tribute to June 12 heroes, and reaffirmed his pledge to uphold democratic principles. Tinubu thanked former President Buhari for formally recognizing June 12 and MKO Abiola’s victory in 1993. He emphasized the parliamentary role in defending democracy—from opposing third-term bids in 2006 to enabling Jonathan’s rise in 2010. The president dismissed concerns over a one-party state, vowing competitive politics and welcoming defections into the APC. He invited lawmakers…
By Atoyebi Nike As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day on June 12, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has described the country’s democratic journey as a continuing work in progress, urging renewed citizen and civil society engagement to strengthen governance. In a statement issued by its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Afenifere underscored the importance of the day, which marks Nigeria’s transition from military rule to civil governance. Fasoranti credited the enduring democratic experience since 1999 to sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and civil society movements, especially the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), of which Afenifere was a central part. He noted that while…
By Atoyebi Nike A large convoy of over 1,500 activists from Algeria and Tunisia has arrived in Libya, continuing its journey to the Gaza Strip to challenge Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid. The group, traveling by cars and buses, aims to reach Gaza through Egypt’s Rafah Crossing. The convoy arrived in Zawiya, western Libya, on Tuesday and is heading through cities including Tripoli, Misrata, and Benghazi to reach the Egyptian border at Saloum. More supporters are expected to join from Libya. Algerian activist Jamila Sharitah said authorities in Tunisia and Libya have supported the convoy’s passage. Organizers say the mission…
By Atoyebi Nike The World Health Organization (WHO) and the TY Danjuma Foundation have signed a US$ 2.26 million grant agreement to strengthen Nigeria’s health care system, with a focus on maternal and child health, primary care, and system resilience in underserved areas. The 10-year agreement was formalized at a ceremony in United Nations House, Abuja, attended by health officials, diplomats, lawmakers, and development partners. Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Representative in Nigeria, and Lt. Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (Rtd) signed on behalf of their organizations. Officials said the collaboration aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda and supports…
By Atoyebi Nike Chelsea flew out for their Club World Cup campaign today, but transfer activity at home remains a priority—particularly in central defence. With Wesley Fofana still sidelined through injury, uncertainty persists over who will partner Levi Colwill next season. Several defensive targets are no longer viable, including Dean Huijsen, who is undergoing a medical at Real Madrid. As options narrow, interest in Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande appears to be gaining traction. According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, both Chelsea and Arsenal are seriously monitoring the 21-year-old Ivorian, with Crystal Palace also showing interest. Diomande fits Chelsea’s recruitment model—young,…
By Atoyebi Nike President Bola Tinubu will on Thursday deliver his Democracy Day address before a joint session of the National Assembly, replacing the traditional early morning broadcast. The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation confirmed the change, citing scheduling reasons. The shift comes as political figures weigh in on national unity. Former PDP Deputy Chairman, Olabode George, called on Tinubu to reinstate suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing it as a gesture in line with the spirit of June 12. However, former Ijaw Youth Council leader, Udengs Eradiri, countered, saying Fubara has shown no commitment…
By Atoyebi Nike Nigeria is commemorating its 2025 Democracy Day with a mix of celebration, solemn reflection, and civic agitation as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prepares to address the nation in a joint session of the National Assembly. Unlike in previous years, there will be no ceremonial parade in the capital, Abuja. This year marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria. The date, originally marked on May 29—the day former President Olusegun Obasanjo took office in 1999—was moved to June 12 in 2018 by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, to honor the landmark June 12, 1993…