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Idongesit Mishael, Uyo The newly inaugurated Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo, Professor Christopher Ekong, on Tuesday declared an uncompromising crackdown on cultism and sexual harassment, warning that any staff or student found culpable would face disciplinary action within 72 hours. Speaking during his investiture as the 9th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution, Ekong unveiled what appeared to be one of the toughest anti-misconduct policies in the university’s history, insisting that his administration would operate a zero-tolerance regime against behaviours capable of undermining academic excellence and campus safety. “We have zero tolerance for sexual harassment and cultism. The panel will not sit for more than 72 hours, and anyone involved will be shown the way out of the university,” he declared. Beyond disciplinary reforms, the Vice Chancellor announced a sweeping security and digital transformation agenda aimed at making the institution safer and more efficient. He disclosed plans to deploy CCTV surveillance systems, drones and biometric access controls across campuses to combat insecurity and monitor movement within the university community. Ekong said biometric capturing would also be introduced within his first 100 days in office to determine the actual number of staff and students and strengthen administrative planning. He further promised a comprehensive audit of the university’s infrastructure, finances, human resources, academic programmes and administrative systems. The Vice Chancellor also pledged to provide round-the-clock internet access for staff and students, noting that work had already commenced on the digitisation of the institution’s ICT infrastructure. He added that the management would outsource the operation of key facilities such as hostels and lecture theatres to professional facility managers to ensure sustainable maintenance. As part of efforts to improve the university’s physical environment, Ekong promised aggressive landscaping, regular maintenance of green areas, artistic beautification of buildings and gates, and the refurbishment of dilapidated structures while preserving existing facilities in good condition. In his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Dr Muiz Banire, urged the new Vice Chancellor to rise above the controversies that trailed his emergence and remain focused on the task ahead. Describing the selection process as turbulent and challenging, Banire advised Ekong to forgive those who opposed his appointment and avoid distractions. “The journey to this day has not been smooth. It has been turbulent and, at times, traumatic,” Banire said, adding that there was no room for revenge despite the difficulties encountered during the leadership transition. The outgoing Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Samuel Odewumi, also counselled Ekong to focus on the future of the institution rather than dwell on past disputes, urging him to concentrate on transforming the university and advancing its academic mission.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, Action Peoples Party, Action Alliance and Zenith Labour Party for failing to meet constitutional requirements for continued registration. Justice Peter Lifu issued the order while delivering judgment in a suit filed by the National Forum of Former Legislators, which challenged INEC’s continued recognition of the affected parties. The plaintiffs argued that the parties failed to satisfy the performance thresholds prescribed under Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution, including securing a minimum percentage of votes in presidential elections or winning elective seats at the national, state or local government levels. According to the suit, the parties performed poorly in the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections, making their continued existence as registered political parties unconstitutional. The ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly for politicians associated with some of the affected parties. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has recently been linked with the ADC as part of ongoing coalition talks, while other political actors may also be affected by the judgment. Unless overturned by a higher court, the decision effectively removes the parties from Nigeria’s electoral landscape and bars them from participating in future electoral activities recognised by INEC.

Idara Jerome, Uyo As Nigeria grapples with escalating kidnappings, killings and violent crimes across several parts of the country, the Lead Pastor of Insight Bible Church, Uyo, Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia, has called on governments at all levels to take more decisive steps to protect lives and restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture. Ukafia made the appeal on Monday while explaining the significance of the church’s “Black Sunday” observance, a symbolic service during which members dressed in black attire to mourn victims of insecurity and pray for peace, national healing and divine intervention in the country’s affairs. The cleric said the observance was informed by growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the country, noting that the increasing cases of abduction, killings and attacks on communities have left many Nigerians living in fear and uncertainty. According to him, the church chose to wear black as a mark of mourning for lives lost to violence and as a reminder that the nation must not become indifferent to the suffering of victims and their families. “Nigeria is going through a difficult season. Every day, we hear stories of kidnappings, killings and attacks on innocent citizens. We felt compelled as a church to identify with the pain of affected families and to cry out to God for mercy and intervention,” he said. Ukafia stressed that while security agencies continue to make efforts to combat criminality, government must intensify measures aimed at tackling insecurity and ensuring that citizens can live and conduct their businesses without fear. He also urged political leaders to govern with wisdom, integrity and compassion, noting that the country’s challenges require purposeful leadership and collective responsibility. The special prayer service, held at the church auditorium along Nsikak Eduok Avenue, Uyo, attracted members and visitors who offered prayers for Nigeria, political leaders, security agencies, kidnapped victims and communities affected by violence. During the service, worshippers prayed for the safe release of those in captivity, comfort for bereaved families and divine guidance for leaders entrusted with the responsibility of managing the nation’s affairs. Following the service, members staged a peaceful procession within the church premises carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Blessed Are The Peacemakers,” “Where Are The Peacemakers?”, “Let My People Live In Peace,” “Turn Our Cries Into Testimonies,” and “Thou Shall Not Kill.” The placards reflected growing public anxiety over insecurity and underscored calls for greater commitment from both leaders and citizens towards protecting lives, promoting justice and preserving the sanctity of human life. Addressing journalists after the event, Ukafia explained that the demonstration was neither political nor directed against any government or individual, but was intended to draw attention to the urgent need for peace and collective action against insecurity. He added that the church would continue to stand in the gap through prayers and advocacy until peace is restored across the country. “Our message is simple: Nigerians deserve to live in peace. We are praying for our leaders, for security agencies and for all those affected by violence. We believe that with sincere leadership, collective action and God’s intervention, our nation can overcome these challenges,” he stated. The Black Sunday observance comes amid growing national concerns over persistent insecurity, with stakeholders across the country calling for stronger and more coordinated efforts to curb kidnappings, violent crimes and attacks on communities.

A pastor in Anambra State has landed in police custody over allegations that he lured married women away from their husbands and incorporated them into his own household. Pastor Harrison Charles of Day Spring Assembly, Awada, Onitsha, was arrested by Agunechemba security operatives following the emergence of a viral video containing a series of allegations against him. Among the claims being investigated are accusations that the cleric encouraged wife-swapping among church members and persuaded married women to abandon their husbands and become his wives. The controversy has attracted even greater attention following reports that the pastor’s household may include as many as 75 wives, although authorities have yet to independently verify the figure. Officials disclosed that 11 babies were found in the pastor’s residence during the operation. According to the allegations, the pastor claimed to be the father of all the children and said they were born by 11 of his wives. Investigators were reportedly met with further surprise when the cleric allegedly stated that he could not accurately determine the total number of wives and children under his care. The unusual nature of the allegations has triggered intense reactions online, with many social media users expressing disbelief at the reported size of the household, while others questioned how such an arrangement could have existed without attracting earlier scrutiny. Beyond the public amusement generated by the case, observers say the development raises important questions about religious accountability, the influence of self-styled spiritual leaders, and the protection of vulnerable followers from possible exploitation. The Anambra State Government, through its spokesman, Dr. Ejimofor Opara, confirmed that Pastor Charles remains in police custody while a joint investigation involving the government and the police continues. Authorities have called on residents with relevant information to assist investigators as efforts continue to establish the facts surrounding the allegations. Government officials have emphasized that the claims against the pastor remain allegations and have not been proven in court. They reiterated that he is entitled to the presumption of innocence until a competent court rules otherwise. As investigations progress, what began as allegations of wife-grabbing has evolved into one of the most talked-about controversies in the state, with public attention fixed on both the criminal claims and the extraordinary size of the household at the centre of the case.

Idara Jerome, Uyo The Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) has raised concerns over the growing menace of vote buying and vote selling in Nigeria, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to democratic governance and could undermine the credibility of future elections if left unchecked. The organisation also urged political actors across the country to conduct themselves responsibly ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that elections should not be treated as a battlefield but as a democratic process through which citizens freely choose their leaders. Speaking at the 2026 June 12 Democracy Day Public Lecture in Uyo on Friday, CHRAN Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, said the increasing commercialization of the electoral process weakens accountability and erodes public confidence in democracy. Addressing participants at the lecture themed, “The Dangers of Vote Selling in a Democracy,” Isong noted that the practice allows unqualified leaders to emerge while depriving citizens of the moral authority to demand good governance from elected officials. He cautioned politicians against inflammatory rhetoric, political intolerance and acts capable of inciting violence as preparations for the next election cycle gather momentum across the country. “Elections should not be seen as a warfront or battle to kill and destroy one another. It is simply an opportunity for the people to elect their servants who will deliver on good governance to them,” he said. The rights advocate maintained that democracy remains the best form of government despite its challenges, adding that Nigerians must continue to safeguard democratic institutions and processes through active participation and civic responsibility. According to him, the annual June 12 lecture provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists whose struggles paved the way for the restoration of democratic rule in 1999 and the eventual recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day. He paid tribute to late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and other democracy activists who lost their lives during the struggle against military rule, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices must never be forgotten. While assessing Nigeria’s democratic journey, Isong argued that the country’s current constitutional framework has not sufficiently addressed many of the nation’s challenges, calling for comprehensive constitutional reforms to strengthen governance and deepen democracy. “There is no doubt that the extant constitution requires a fundamental review, if not a complete overhaul,” he stated. The CHRAN Director further urged Nigerians to reject electoral inducements and embrace issue-based politics, insisting that the future of the country depends largely on the ability of voters to make informed choices and hold leaders accountable. He reiterated the organisation’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, human rights and democratic values, describing them as critical pillars for the survival and growth of Nigeria’s democracy.

Idongesit Mishael, Lagos The first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks has begun receiving financial and social support packages from government agencies and private organisations, as efforts shift from evacuation to reintegration of affected citizens. Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed on Thursday that the 262 returnees who arrived in Lagos were met with a range of interventions designed to ease their transition back into Nigerian society. The support package includes N100,000 cash grants for each returnee from telecommunications giant MTN, alongside N50,000 airtime and starter packs intended to help them reconnect with family members and rebuild their lives after their abrupt departure from South Africa. In what appears to be one of the most significant individual interventions so far, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State approved a N1 million grant for each Imo indigene among the returnees, a move that has drawn commendation from stakeholders involved in the evacuation process. Speaking on Channels Television, Dabiri-Erewa said the returnees were victims of circumstances beyond their control and should not be stigmatized upon their return. “None of them committed any crime. The only crime they committed is the colour of their skin. They are migrants in South Africa,” she said. According to her, the Federal Government is determined not only to bring stranded Nigerians home but also to provide pathways for their economic and social reintegration. Beyond the direct cash interventions, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) provided transportation assistance to enable the returnees reach their various destinations, while a private real estate company also contributed financial support to cushion the immediate impact of their displacement. Officials of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) were equally mobilised to assist returnees with identity documentation, a step considered crucial to accessing government services, employment opportunities and financial inclusion programmes. Dabiri-Erewa said the government would continue engaging the returnees to identify their professional backgrounds, vocational skills and business interests with a view to linking them to available empowerment and livelihood opportunities. She urged state governments across the federation to emulate the Imo State intervention by identifying and supporting their indigenes among the returnees. The NiDCOM boss noted that while the evacuation exercise was a humanitarian response to a difficult situation, long-term reintegration would require collaboration among federal and state governments, development agencies and the private sector. The latest evacuation followed a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa that triggered fears among migrant communities and prompted hundreds of Nigerians to seek assistance from the Nigerian High Commission to return home voluntarily. With more than 1,000 Nigerians already registered for repatriation, Dabiri-Erewa disclosed that a second batch of evacuees is expected to depart South Africa on June 15, as authorities continue efforts to bring home citizens affected by the unrest and provide them with the support needed to rebuild their lives.

Idongesit Mishael, Lagos The first batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa following the recent wave of xenophobic attacks has arrived in Nigeria, marking the commencement of the Federal Government’s repatriation programme for affected citizens. A total of 268 returnees landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Thursday aboard an Air Peace flight chartered to facilitate their safe return. The evacuation flight, initially scheduled to depart South Africa on Monday, was delayed until Wednesday due to documentation and administrative processing challenges before eventually taking off. The repatriation exercise comes amid renewed concerns over the safety of Nigerians residing in South Africa following reports of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country. The Federal Government had earlier disclosed that more than 1,000 Nigerians had indicated their willingness to return home, with arrangements underway for additional evacuation flights in the coming days. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had revealed that requests for voluntary repatriation from Nigerians in South Africa were increasing as concerns over their safety continued to mount. According to the minister, the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria has been engaging relevant South African authorities to ensure a smooth evacuation process for affected citizens, including those facing immigration-related challenges. She explained that special arrangements were made to allow Nigerians with unresolved immigration issues to depart on the evacuation flights instead of being subjected to detention or other administrative sanctions. To facilitate the exercise, the Nigerian Mission in South Africa commenced a comprehensive screening and documentation process for intending returnees. The exercise, originally scheduled to end over the weekend, was subsequently extended to accommodate the growing number of Nigerians seeking repatriation assistance. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the extension underscored the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare and interests of Nigerians living abroad. The ministry stated that the protection of Nigerian citizens overseas remains a central pillar of the country’s foreign policy and a core responsibility of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Idongesit Ashameri, Uyo Vanolive Property Limited, a fast-growing real estate development company, has unveiled a new smart residential project within the Royal Palm Villa Estate in Uyo, positioning the development as a premium investment destination for homeowners, diaspora investors, golf tourists and short-let accommodation operators seeking opportunities in Akwa Ibom State’s expanding real estate market. The project, strategically located near the renowned Ibom Golf Course, was showcased during the recently concluded Ibom Open Golf Championship, where golfers, business executives, tourists and prospective investors were introduced to the technology-driven apartments and investment opportunities being developed by the company. Speaking during the tournament, the Managing Director of Vanolive Property Limited, Mr. Lucky Ototakovie said the company decided to invest in Royal Palm Villa because of its strategic location and growing potential as a hub for tourism, hospitality and high-end residential living in the state. According to him, Vanolive’s development within the estate comprises modern studio and one-bedroom apartments designed to meet the needs of both residents and investors looking for properties capable of generating sustainable income through short-let and Airbnb operations. He explained that the apartments have been built around the concept of smart living, combining luxury, security and digital convenience. Mr. Ototakovie disclosed that the company is currently offering special investment packages, with studio apartments available from N60 million and one-bedroom apartments priced at N80 million. He added that prospective buyers can secure ownership with a 35 per cent initial payment and spread the balance conveniently over a 12-month period, making the project accessible to a wider range of investors. He further explained that the investment proposition extends beyond property ownership, noting that investors can earn attractive returns through short-let rentals. According to projections by the company, studio apartments can generate approximately N100,000 per night, while one-bedroom apartments can command about N120,000 per night, particularly during major events, conferences and tourism seasons in Uyo. Highlighting the estate’s attractions, Ototakovie said residents and guests will enjoy access to a wide range of lifestyle amenities, including a conference hall, clubhouse, executive lounge, lawn tennis court, basketball court, mini football pitch, children’s play arena, restaurant, swimming pool, wellness centre, retail shops and a reliable central water system. He noted that security and comfort remain central to the development philosophy of Vanolive Property Limited, adding that the estate features a fully gated environment, 24-hour security coverage, controlled access systems and ample parking spaces designed to provide residents with peace of mind and a high-quality living experience. One of the unique attractions of the development, according to him, is the executive lounge and golf simulator arena, which allows golf enthusiasts to enjoy virtual golfing experiences without leaving the estate. The feature, he said, complements the estate’s proximity to the Ibom Golf Course and strengthens its appeal to golf tourists and professionals who frequently visit the state. The developer also revealed that Vanolive has incorporated cutting-edge smart home technologies into the apartments, enabling property owners to monitor and manage their homes remotely from anywhere in the world. These features include smart lighting systems, intelligent climate control, CCTV surveillance, facial recognition access, smart locks and advanced security systems. In addition, the apartments come equipped with a range of automation features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These include automated kitchen systems, automated curtains and window blinds, video door phones, smart entertainment systems, voice-control technology, leak detection systems, fire detection devices, backup power solutions and real-time energy management tools that help residents monitor and optimize energy consumption. Industry stakeholders who attended the Ibom Open Golf Championship described Vanolive Property Limited’s investment as a significant contribution to Akwa Ibom’s evolving real estate landscape. They noted that the combination of smart technology, premium amenities, flexible payment plans, strong rental income potential and a prime location near the Ibom Golf Course positions Vanolive’s Royal Palm Villa development as one of the most attractive property investment opportunities currently available in the state.

Idara Jerome, Uyo The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Akwa Ibom State chapter, has warned that worsening insecurity across the country could deepen the crisis in the education sector as teachers may become increasingly reluctant to work in vulnerable communities. The union gave the warning on Tuesday during a protest in Uyo against the abduction of teachers and school children in Oyo State, describing attacks on schools as a major threat to the future of education in Nigeria. The teachers, who marched along Wellington Bassey Way and adjoining roads, carried placards bearing inscriptions such as “Education Cannot Thrive Under Terror,” “An Attack on Teachers is an Attack on Education,” and “Protect Teachers and You Protect the Future.” The protest was part of a nationwide demonstration organised by the NUT to condemn the growing spate of kidnappings and attacks targeting schools, teachers and students across the country. Speaking during the protest, the Akwa Ibom State Chairman of the union, Comrade Edet Emenyi, lamented that many teachers now carry out their duties in fear due to the worsening security situation. According to him, schools that should ordinarily serve as safe centres for learning and development have now become targets for criminals. “Today, many teachers teach while constantly looking over their shoulders. Education cannot thrive under terror. Teachers need protection, not condolences,” Emenyi stated. He stressed that continued attacks on teachers and students could discourage educators from accepting postings, especially in rural and high-risk areas. The union leader noted that insecurity in schools was gradually weakening confidence within the education sector and threatening effective teaching and learning. He therefore called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to urgently strengthen security around schools across the country. Emenyi also demanded the immediate release of all abducted teachers, students and education workers still in captivity. He further urged government at all levels to improve teachers’ welfare, insisting that educators deserve adequate protection and support to perform their responsibilities effectively. The protesters maintained that safeguarding teachers and schools was critical to preserving the future of education and national development.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Akwa Ibom State, Uko Udom (SAN), has called on judges and magistrates to exercise greater discretion in granting bail to suspects involved in severe gender-based violence (GBV) cases, warning that survivors are often exposed to renewed intimidation and attacks when alleged abusers return home. Udom made the appeal on Monday, during the flag-off of the June 2026 Gender-Based Violence Awareness Month in Uyo, amid rising concerns over domestic violence and abuse cases across the state. His warning came as statistics released by the Director, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Department of the Ministry of Justice, Barrister Emem Ette, revealed that spousal battery emerged as the most reported GBV offence in Akwa Ibom within the first five months of 2026. The figures showed that the state has recorded 1,838 cases of gender-based violence since the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law in 2020, with 102 convictions secured so far. According to the statistics, 161 fresh cases were recorded between January and May 2026 alone, with spousal battery accounting for 61 incidents, the highest among reported offences. Threat to life and physical assault followed with 46 cases, rape accounted for 26 cases, abandonment and forceful ejection recorded 18 cases, while harmful widowhood practices stood at 10 cases. A monthly breakdown showed that January recorded 27 cases, February 23, March 28, while April and May recorded the highest figures with 40 cases each. The statistics further revealed that victims affected within the period were between the ages of three and 50 years, underscoring the vulnerability of women and children to abuse across the state. Data from the ministry also showed that the state recorded 69 cases between June and December 2020 shortly after the VAPP Law was enacted, while 141 cases were reported in 2021. The number increased sharply to 316 cases in 2022 and rose further to 368 cases in 2023 before peaking at 465 cases in 2024. In 2025, the state recorded 318 cases. Speaking on the challenges confronting the prosecution of offenders, Udom expressed concern that some survivors and witnesses are left vulnerable after courts grant bail to suspects in serious abuse cases. “This is not justice. This is a structural failure that we must address. When an abuser returns home on bail to the same compound where the survivor lives, the system is sending the wrong signal,” he said. He therefore appealed to the judiciary to prioritise survivor safety while considering bail applications in severe GBV-related offences. The Attorney General also condemned the growing trend of out-of-court settlements in domestic violence and abuse cases, insisting that such practices often shield perpetrators from justice. “When a man or woman’s ribs are broken, when a child is defiled, when a wife is battered unconscious, there is no settlement that restores dignity. What these words really mean is that money has changed hands and justice has been buried,” he declared. Udom, however, said the increasing number of reported cases reflected growing public confidence in the justice system rather than a rise in crime. “Since the passage of the AKS VAPP Law in June 2020, we have recorded over 2,000 reported cases of gender-based violence across the state. Out of these, we have secured over 100 convictions. These are not just statistics. Each conviction is a message that impunity will no longer be tolerated in Akwa Ibom State,” he stated. He said the Ministry of Justice had established a specialised Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Department to coordinate prosecutions, survivor support and implementation of the VAPP Law across the state. According to him, the government has also established shelters, Sexual Assault Referral Centres and skill acquisition centres to provide free medical care, counselling, vocational training and psychosocial support for survivors. He added that GBV response units had been created in all the 31 local government areas, while community health workers, social welfare officers and security personnel had been trained as paralegals to assist survivors with documentation, legal guidance and referrals. The Attorney General used the occasion to commend the Director, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Department, Barrister Emem Ette, for her commitment and dedication to the fight against gender-based violence in the state.