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Gunfire erupts as soldiers confront Wike’s associates during an attempt to demolish a building in Abuja.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On December 18, 2023, a disturbing incident unfolded in the Sabon Lugbe Area of Abuja, where soldiers allegedly following the orders of a Major General reportedly assaulted officials from the Development Control Department. These officials were executing a directive from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, aimed at dismantling illegal structures in the vicinity, specifically targeting a property on Plot 416.

Upon their arrival, the enforcement team was met with hostility. Soldiers, traveling in a vehicle with obscured license plates, blocked the exit to the property and issued threats of violence, declaring that “someone would die that day.” The situation escalated when gunshots rang out, purportedly fired by the soldiers to intimidate the officials engaged in their lawful duties.

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with a Private Jamilu coercing a caterpillar operator—who was tasked with the dismantling—by brandishing his rifle and threatening immediate violence. Following this confrontation, the soldiers allegedly beat the operator and other enforcement officials, subjecting them to severe physical abuse. The officers were reportedly held hostage for hours, and their vehicles were vandalized, including the flattening of tires.

Local law enforcement, represented by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Trademore, attempted to intervene but were rebuffed by the Major General, who declined to cooperate. This confrontation raises significant concerns regarding the abuse of power, the rule of law, and the safety of public officials performing their duties.

This incident exemplifies the critical issues surrounding the enforcement of building regulations and the potential for military overreach in civilian matters. As the situation develops, it remains imperative for authorities to uphold accountability and ensure the protection of public officials acting in accordance with the law.

Foreign

Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.

Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.

Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.

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Entertainment

Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.

Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.

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Entertainment

Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”

The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.

Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.

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