Inside Agwa News National Headlines: Abati Demands HoS Resignation as Osun Election Tensions Rise, Bandits Kill Worshippers
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Rita Onuoha
Nigeria witnessed another wave of political, security and governance developments on Wednesday, with criticism trailing the Federal Civil Service, heightened tensions ahead of the Osun State governorship election, and fresh attacks by armed groups in parts of the country.
Below are the top 10 stories making headlines across the country.
10. Abati Calls for Head of Civil Service's Resignation
Arise News anchor and political analyst, Reuben Abati, has called on the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, to resign over the controversy surrounding the alleged existence of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC).
Speaking during Arise Television's Morning Show, Abati argued that the Federal Civil Service failed in its duty to verify official documents before agencies were established and personnel deployed, saying the development has embarrassed Nigeria before the international community.
His remarks come amid ongoing investigations by the House of Representatives into the activities of the alleged agency.
9. Adeleke Campaign Demands Release of Arrested Supporters
The campaign organisation of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has demanded the immediate release of supporters allegedly arrested ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Speaking after visiting the Force Intelligence Response Team headquarters in Abuja, campaign spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi alleged that more than 86 supporters had been arrested across Osun State without lawful justification.
The team accused security agencies of intimidation, although the Nigeria Police Force is yet to officially respond to the allegations.
8. INEC Extends PVC Collection in Osun
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) for the forthcoming Osun governorship election until July 31.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, announced the extension during an Expanded Stakeholders' Meeting in Osogbo, assuring residents that the commission is fully prepared to conduct a free, fair and credible election.
He maintained that the outcome of the election would be determined by votes rather than violence.
7. DSS Arraigns Five Suspected Ansaru Members
The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned five suspected members of the terrorist group Ansaru before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The suspects are facing charges relating to the May 15 abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as well as the alleged killing of two victims during the incident.
The prosecution forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat terrorism and kidnapping across the country.
6. Four Security Operatives Killed in Kebbi Attack
Four security operatives have been confirmed dead following an attack by armed bandits on Tudun Bicci community in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Chairman of the local government, Hussaini Aliyu Bena, confirmed the incident, adding that one soldier remains missing after the attack.
Security operations have reportedly been intensified in the area.
5. Bandits Kill Worshippers, Abduct Residents in Sokoto
Bandits have killed at least three worshippers inside a mosque and abducted several residents during an attack on Tsamaye village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Residents said the attackers invaded the community around 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday and remained there until the early hours of Wednesday before leaving with several captives.
The latest attack highlights the persistent insecurity confronting communities in northwestern Nigeria.
4. Police Decline to Produce PFIPC Suspect Before Reps Committee
The Nigeria Police Force failed to produce the self-acclaimed Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC), Adeyemi Adeniyi, before the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the alleged phantom agency.
Police representatives informed lawmakers that they would require a court warrant before releasing the suspect from custody, despite the committee's directive.
The development has further intensified scrutiny of the controversial agency.
3. ADC Knocks Tinubu Over 'Fight to the Finish' Remark
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu over his recent declaration that he is prepared to "fight to the finish" politically.
In a statement signed by the party's National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC argued that the President should concentrate on defeating terrorists and addressing insecurity instead of engaging political opponents.
The statement followed the President's remarks during a meeting with members of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria.
2. Army Appoints New General Officers Commanding
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has appointed new General Officers Commanding (GOCs) for the newly created Army divisions.
The appointments followed President Bola Tinubu's approval of additional military formations aimed at improving operational effectiveness and strengthening the fight against insecurity across the country.
Military authorities said the restructuring is expected to enhance rapid deployment and command efficiency.
1. Police Arrest Osun SSG, Recover Cash, PVCs
The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, alongside five others during a raid on his residence.
Police said officers recovered ₦4.81 million in cash, Permanent Voter Cards, a voter register covering Wards 1 to 15, a Dynabook laptop, a printer and a photocopy machine during the operation.
The arrests come barely weeks before the August 15 Osun State governorship election and are expected to generate fresh political reactions as investigations continue.
