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#EndBadGovernance Protesters Deny Torture Claims Following Release from DSS Custody,
In the aftermath of the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, several detainees have publicly refuted allegations of torture while in custody at the Department of State Security (DSS) office in Kaduna State. This development follows the release of six protesters, as reported by *The Punch*, after a thorough investigation by the DSS.
The protests, which occurred from August 1 to 10, were a response to the escalating economic hardships faced by citizens in Nigeria. Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, highlighted that a total of 2,111 individuals were apprehended during these demonstrations. While the DSS confirmed the release of six protesters, it also indicated that three others would face arraignment.
A source within the DSS emphasized the agency’s commitment to investigating those who exploit rights to commit crimes, stating, “The DG is resolute in upholding the mandate of the Service to decisively investigate and bring to justice those who exploit such rights to perpetrate crime.”
The released protesters, who identified themselves as DJs involved in providing music during the protests, reported no mistreatment during their detention. Dahiru Hamza, also known as DJ Zariya, expressed gratitude for their release, attributing it to the new DSS Director General’s review of their cases, which concluded their innocence. He noted, “We were neither tortured nor starved,” and highlighted the absence of any bail requirements for their release.
Similarly, Isa Abdullahi, known as DJ SP, corroborated Hamza’s account, stating that he maintained communication with his family while in custody. He praised the DSS for their unconditional release, reflecting a notable shift in the agency’s approach under the new leadership.
These statements from the released protesters provide a contrasting narrative to the broader concerns regarding human rights abuses during the protests, prompting ongoing discussions about the treatment of detainees and the responsibilities of security agencies in Nigeria.
The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the declaration on Saturday following an inspection of the road. He stated that the project, initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, had been poorly executed or abandoned.
Umahi explained that despite repeated attempts to have Salini repair the road over the past year and a half, progress had been unsatisfactory. Niger Governor Mohammed Bago raised concerns with President Bola Tinubu, prompting the Ministry of Works to intervene. The road, described as being “in a very terrible situation delaying travel time by seven hours instead of an hour and half hours and vehicles are falling and killing people,” has been designated an emergency project.
The contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to substandard work. Umahi has directed his ministry to recover funds owed by Salini, potentially involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Two contractors are now engaged in the project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd. has been contracted to handle part of the road, with 60km already completed under the Governor’s urban renewal agenda. CCCC has been given 10 days to mobilize and commence work on a critical 7km stretch. Umahi emphasized that work will begin immediately under emergency procurement guidelines, with pricing to be verified subsequently.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of Kayode Peters, a renowned filmmaker and producer. The news was announced by his family on his official Instagram page, stating that he passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness.
Peters, fondly known as KP, was celebrated for his contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and producer. He was known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcoms “Twilight Zone” and “Flatmates” in the early 2000s. His work also extended to stage plays and sitcoms like “Extended Family” and “Being Farouk,” significantly impacting Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television landscape.
He is survived by his wife, Alexander, and their children. Funeral arrangements are underway, and further details will be shared by the family in due course. The industry and fans alike will deeply miss his warmth, generosity, and contributions to Nollywood.
President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-nation tour encompassing the Caribbean and South America. Upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, he was received with full military honors by Governor-General Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre.
The President’s itinerary includes courtesy visits to the Governor-General and Prime Minister, followed by an address to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with emphasis on economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. A visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is also planned to strengthen educational ties.
Following his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, attending at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Nigeria’s participation as a ‘partner country’ underscores its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations on a global scale.
Federal Government Declares State of Emergency on Suleja-Minna Road.
Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Kayode Peters.
