Abubakar Bukola Saraki, former President of the Senate, has emphasized the foundational role of the National Assembly in Nigeria’s democratic development. He described it as the pillar of representative democracy in Nigeria, asserting that it most accurately reflects the voice and will of the Nigerian people. Saraki conveyed this message in a concise yet impactful statement on his official X handle (formerly Twitter). His comments came as Nigeria celebrated 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance. The statement also aligned with his presence at the joint session of the National Assembly held on Thursday in honor of Democracy Day. “I congratulate all Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora on the 26th anniversary of our democracy. This milestone is a product of our collective sacrifice and determination, and we all deserve recognition for making it happen,” he wrote. The former Senate President paid homage to the pro-democracy activists who risked everything to resist military dictatorship and open the path to democratic governance. “Let us remember and celebrate all democracy heroes and heroines—those whose contributions, both recognized and unrecognized, helped end military dictatorship in Nigeria,” he stated. “From notable political figures to unnamed protesters who suffered the loss of life, limbs, or means of livelihood… May Almighty God bless their souls.” Saraki further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for participating in the commemorative event held at the National Assembly, stating that the location of the celebration carried deep significance. “This Democracy Day, we must collectively reflect on and honor the heroes who paid various prices to end military rule and restore democracy. From political elites to anonymous citizens who suffered on the streets, all played vital roles. May God bless their memories,” he reiterated. He concluded that choosing the Green Chamber of the National Assembly for the Democracy Day event signified the importance of the legislature in a true democratic system. “Today’s event proves that the legislature forms the backbone of democratic governance. The decision not to meet at Aso Rock, the Supreme Court, or Eagle Square, but rather here in the Green Chamber, underscores the value of representative democracy,” Saraki emphasized. The statement sparked widespread engagement on social media, where many Nigerians agreed with Saraki’s viewpoint. Numerous commentators stressed the need to strengthen the legislature’s independence and responsiveness in addressing the country’s many pressing issues. The 2025 Democracy Day was celebrated across the country with diverse activities reflecting on Nigeria’s political transformation since the end of military rule in 1999.
As Nigeria observes its 26th Democracy Day, the Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Governor Hope Uzodinma to rebuild public confidence in democratic governance, condemning his administration for lacking integrity and transparency. In a press release marking the occasion, PDP Publicity Secretary Lancelot Obiaku acknowledged that although Uzodinma’s regime falls short of democratic ideals, the governor still has nearly three years remaining to rectify the situation. The PDP pointed out that there is little cause for celebration among ordinary people in Imo State today. They cited problems such as diminished transparency, absence of accountability, disdain for the rule of law, and rampant corruption—all pointing to a government that fails democratic standards. The party accused the governor of sidelining both the legislature and judiciary, effectively running the state unilaterally. Citizens are reportedly disillusioned due to ongoing human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, unchecked administrative power, and erosion of separation of powers. According to the PDP, this style of governance has stifled development and triggered setbacks across vital sectors of the state’s economy. A glaring example is the absence of a Chief Judge for nearly a year—a first in Imo’s history. When the previous Chief Judge’s term ended on November 16, 2024, the governor should have requested a recommendation from the National Judicial Council (NJC) per Section 271(4) of the Constitution. Instead, he swore in Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu—who lacked qualifications—as Acting Chief Judge. The NJC later nullified this appointment, leaving the state without a chief judge for eight months. This has stalled case assignments and disrupted judicial functions. Obiaku also raised concerns about public contracts in the state, noting that they are no longer advertised and that the Public Procurement Bureau has been shut down. He accused the administration of opaque awarding practices that even exclude the State Assembly. Contract costs and details remain hidden from the public. A recent example involves road contracts: the state government re-awarded the World Bank-funded Umuguma and Nekede–Iheanwa roads in Owerri, initially commissioned in 2020. Yet, no visible progress has been made. According to the PDP, this highlights systemic corruption. Additionally, Uzodinma has refused to conduct democratic local government elections, instead appointing sole administrators. The PDP claims that more than ₦500 billion in LGA allocations since his administration began has been wasted, with no tangible benefits in areas like rural infrastructure, commerce, education, wages, pensions, or gratuities. Obiaku further alleged that in 2022, fourteen young men traveling from Otulu Community (Oru West LGA) to Awo-Omamma (Oru East LGA) were killed in broad daylight by suspected government-aligned militiamen known as Ebubeagu. Officials falsely labeled the victims as terrorists reportedly killed by the DSS in a forest gunfight. Despite community testimonies pleading innocence, demands for justice were ignored. The PDP described this and other human rights violations as hallmarks of Uzodinma’s five-year rule. More recently, over 100 members of the Agwa Community in Oguta LGA were reportedly killed by Fulani herders. With rising incidents of murders, kidnappings, and organ harvesting, the PDP criticized the administration for remaining silent and failing to offer aid or solutions. “This is not democracy,” they wrote. The PDP concluded by encouraging citizens not to abandon democratic participation, reminding them that the current APC-led administration has limited time left.
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The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have notified the public that Iran’s retaliatory attack against Israel has commenced. According to IDF reports, Iran has dispatched over 100 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) toward Israeli airspace as part of its reprisal. “All aerial defense systems are fully engaged in intercepting the incoming threats,” stated IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin. He added, “This is unlike anything we’ve experienced before, and we are preparing for extremely challenging hours ahead.” Background: Israel Launches Operation Rising Lion As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, Israel previously initiated multiple coordinated airstrikes on Iranian targets, resulting in heightened regional tensions and the declaration of a state of emergency in Israel in anticipation of Iran’s response. The Israeli military described the strikes as a pre-emptive, precise, and collaborative operation based on top-level intelligence, naming it Operation Rising Lion. Tragically, one of Iran’s top military officials, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, who served as Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, was reportedly killed during the Israeli strikes.
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Israel has initiated a major aerial operation targeting several strategic locations across Iran, including its nuclear infrastructure, amid growing tensions between both nations. The government in Tel Aviv has also declared a state of emergency in anticipation of Iran’s countermeasures. According to the Israeli military, this campaign, code-named Operation Rising Lion, was a deliberate and intelligence-driven offensive aimed at neutralizing critical threats. The military emphasized that the mission was both “accurate and coordinated,” targeting a broad range of military and nuclear facilities inside Iran. A spokesperson revealed that multiple Israeli Air Force fighter jets conducted the initial wave of the operation, successfully engaging numerous high-value sites related to Iran’s nuclear program. These targets were reportedly distributed across various provinces within the country. Citing local Iranian sources, Mehr News confirmed the deaths of several prominent figures in the scientific and military communities. These include Fereydoun Abbasi, a noted nuclear scientist, Dr. Mohammed Mehdi Tehranchi, a theoretical physicist, and Major General Gholam Ali Rashid. In a national address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the offensive as a vital step in preserving Israel’s national security. He reiterated that the action aims to counter what he described as an “imminent threat to Israel’s existence” and vowed that the operation would continue “for as long as necessary to eliminate that danger.” Iranian government outlets also reported that Hossein Salami, the high-ranking commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has been killed in the attack.
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In a critical escalation of Middle Eastern tensions, Israeli air raids have reportedly resulted in the death of Major General Mohammad Bagheri, who served as the Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, according to Iranian state-run broadcaster IRINN. General Bagheri was regarded as Iran’s top-ranking military leader, overseeing critical national defense operations. This incident marks the second high-profile military fatality following Israel’s bold offensive on Iranian territory during the early hours of Friday. Earlier reports from multiple Iranian news agencies claimed that General Hossein Salami, the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), also perished in the same wave of coordinated air assaults. As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) initiated numerous targeted strikes across key Iranian locations. The Israeli government has also declared a national emergency, preparing for possible retaliatory measures from Tehran. A statement from the Israeli military characterized the action as a “preemptive, coordinated, precision assault driven by premium intelligence sources.” The operation has been formally named Operation Rising Lion, reflecting its strategic and symbolic intensity.
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The British High Commission in India has announced that it is collaborating closely with Indian authorities to swiftly verify the details surrounding the tragic plane crash involving a London-bound flight that went down shortly after departure from Ahmedabad airport on Thursday. As earlier reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the Air India flight lost radar contact not long after takeoff from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. The aircraft was carrying a total of 242 passengers, including 53 British nationals, 169 Indian citizens, 7 Portuguese nationals, and 1 Canadian traveler. According to a detailed report by The Indian Express, there is only one confirmed survivor, identified as Vishwash Kumar Ramesh, from among the passengers onboard the ill-fated flight bound for the United Kingdom. The remaining 241 individuals are presumed to have perished in the crash. In reaction to the heartbreaking news, the British High Commission shared a brief update via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, stating: “We are aware that a flight from Ahmedabad to London has crashed near Ahmedabad airport.We are working with local authorities to urgently establish the facts and provide support.Our thoughts are with all those affected.” India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has also issued a heartfelt message expressing profound sorrow over the fatal event, extending condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.
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Senator Seriake Dickson, who represents Bayelsa West, has raised significant concerns about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent address during the joint session of the National Assembly, which was held in celebration of Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day. Speaking with journalists shortly after President Tinubu’s remarks, Senator Dickson accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of infringing upon his constitutional privileges during the session. He expressed dismay that Senate President Akpabio hurriedly read through President Tinubu’s official letters to the National Assembly without giving room for necessary interventions. Dickson asserted that his attempt to raise a constitutional issue was blatantly overlooked, stressing, “This is not the way a democracy functions. That’s typical of military rule, not democratic governance.” Senator Dickson further lamented that his senatorial rights were completely disregarded, particularly his entitlement to bring up constitutional matters for discussion during such significant occasions. According to LMSINT MEDIA, several political observers and stakeholders have also expressed dissatisfaction with the president’s Democracy Day address. Critics argue that President Tinubu failed to acknowledge or offer solutions to the socio-economic challenges confronting the Nigerian populace. Instead, many Nigerians feel the speech leaned more towards political grandstanding, allegedly mocking opposition parties rather than providing meaningful commentary on the rising insecurity and widespread killings across the country.
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World powers have begun issuing official responses following Israel’s recent military offensive against Iran, with a significant number voicing disapproval over the attacks. LMSINT MEDIA earlier reported that Israel launched multiple airstrikes on Iranian territory during the early hours of Friday. The Israeli Defense Forces described the military operation—codenamed Operation Rising Lion—as a “targeted, intelligence-driven, coordinated strike.” China’s Position The Chinese Embassy in Iran referred to the situation as both “serious and complicated.” Officials urged all Chinese nationals residing in Iran to remain vigilant, follow local updates closely, and enhance their personal safety precautions. The United States’ Response In response to the unfolding events, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the United States had no involvement in Israel’s offensive actions. Rubio emphasized, “Our primary concern remains the protection of American personnel deployed across the region.” United Nations’ Reaction UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced his concern, condemning any form of military escalation across the Middle East. A UN spokesperson, quoted by Reuters, conveyed Guterres’ appeal for both nations to demonstrate restraint and avoid further conflict. India Calls for Restraint Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, revealed that India is carefully observing the situation. He stressed that India enjoys cordial and close diplomatic ties with both Iran and Israel and urged both nations to avoid taking actions that could worsen tensions. Saudi Arabia’s Strong Condemnation In a firm statement, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs publicly condemned what it called blatant Israeli aggression. The Ministry argued that such actions threaten Iran’s sovereignty and violate established principles of international law and global norms.
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Governor Alex Otti has issued a directive halting the allocation of new contracts to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) due to the firm’s unsatisfactory performance in ongoing projects within Abia State. The governor made this known on Wednesday during a courtesy visit from Ms. Yan Yuqing, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria, and her delegation, who are currently on an official visit to the state. Governor Otti expressed deep disappointment over CCECC’s slow pace in completing projects already awarded. He emphasized his refusal to entertain any further excuses regarding delays and questioned the company’s lack of presence in the state. According to him, “We awarded your company the first two projects in Aba. While one was finished promptly, the other was significantly delayed. Subsequently, you were given two more contracts. However, I have now directed that no further contracts should be assigned to your firm. Even the Government House construction project, which you designed, has not been awarded to you. The reason is simple—you are underperforming, and we cannot continue to tolerate excuses.” Governor Otti also noted that CCECC had failed to establish an operational base in Abia or deploy senior-level staff to oversee the current projects. This lack of accountability, he said, influenced the state government’s decision to withhold additional contracts. Despite this, he expressed openness to building a productive partnership with the Chinese government to stimulate economic growth in Abia State. He acknowledged shared values between the people of Abia and the Chinese, particularly in terms of resilience and industriousness, even in the face of widespread poverty in Nigeria. Responding, Ms. Yan Yuqing explained that their visit was aimed at fostering stronger ties between China and Abia State. She highlighted plans to extend the Chinese government’s initiative—the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty—to residents of the state. She also expressed China’s willingness to support Abia in key sectors such as vocational training and agriculture by creating avenues for collaboration with partners in China. To mark the visit, her delegation donated food items to assist impoverished and vulnerable groups within the state.
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The physically challenged community in Adamawa State has made a formal appeal to the state government, requesting a dedicated five per cent employment quota for persons with disabilities. This appeal was initiated by the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disability (NAPWPD), Adamawa State Chapter, during a public statement made on Thursday. According to the group, pushing for fair employment representation will be their primary goal. Malam Abdullahi Toungo, who emerged as the new chairman of the association, made this announcement after the election held at the association’s Secretariat in Yola. He emphasized that offering individuals with disabilities better employment access would help tackle one of their most significant challenges—unemployment. “As we commence our four-year leadership tenure, our top priority is to engage the state government constructively. We’re asking to be included—specifically, five percent of employment slots and involvement in people-centered projects,” Toungo stated. Toungo, who holds a diploma, was elected along with 19 other officials. Notable members of the new leadership team include: During a media briefing, Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Iliyasu Amos, described the electoral process as smooth and peaceful. He confirmed that all elected officials emerged without contest, highlighting the unity within the association. “Every candidate ran unopposed, and the atmosphere throughout the election was highly cooperative and friendly,” Amos noted.
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In commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially granted a full presidential pardon to the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, along with eight other members of the Ogoni Nine. The declaration was made on Thursday, symbolizing a reconciliatory gesture by the Nigerian government during the annual national celebration. As part of the commemoration, President Tinubu also bestowed national honours upon the Ogoni Nine. These posthumous recognitions acknowledge their roles in the struggle for social justice in the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. Additionally, the president honoured other notable national heroes, including: Back in November 2024, President Tinubu had pledged to address long-standing historical injustices in the country. This promise aligns with his administration’s latest gesture, aiming to heal wounds and foster national unity. It is worth recalling that in 1995, the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha executed Saro-Wiwa and his fellow activists after controversial accusations of involvement in murder. The full list of the Ogoni Nine includes: This execution sparked global condemnation and remains one of the most controversial incidents in Nigeria’s political history. The decision by the Tinubu administration is seen as a significant move in rewriting Nigeria’s democratic narrative and paying tribute to those who laid down their lives for justice and equity. In June 2024, the administration officially declared June 12 as a Democracy Day public holiday, further reinforcing the significance of this day as a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic development.
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On Thursday, June 12, 2025, a significant deployment of armed security forces was observed at the busy Oba Ovonranmen Square, Ring Road, in Benin City, Edo State. The deployment was in response to the planned demonstration by members of the #TakeItBackMovement, aimed at protesting against poor governance in the state. The security forces included personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Edo State Security Network. These operatives occupied key strategic points around Oba Ovonranmen Square and Sapele Road, particularly near the Benin Correctional Centre. Their presence was primarily to deter the protesters and to maintain public order. LMSINT MEDIA reports that the overwhelming presence of security officials at the protest site effectively halted the planned demonstration, which had been scheduled to take place at the National Museum and Monument in Benin City. The site was heavily guarded, and the main entrance to the museum was securely locked. The protest locations were not limited to Benin alone, as Auchi in Edo State was also earmarked for similar protests. The issues at the center of the protest included hunger, economic hardship, social injustice, worsening insecurity, the Cybercrime Act, illegal detentions, and kidnapping. Security operatives were seen in large numbers stationed at King’s Square, the premises of the Edo State House of Assembly, and other high-traffic areas. Their vehicles, including armored personnel carriers, were parked at strategic points. Many officers conducted patrols around major roads while blaring sirens—an apparent warning to potential agitators. In an interview with journalists, Dr. Hafiz Lawal, the Edo State coordinator for the protest, confirmed that the protest was canceled due to security concerns. Though he withheld specific details, he emphasized that this decision was not a betrayal of the people’s cause. “There has been an increase in cult-related activities and violence involving young people in the state. A certain interest surfaced last night (Wednesday), and we had to cancel the protest to prevent it from being hijacked,” he said. Dr. Lawal encouraged the youth to be ready to participate when future calls for protest arise, emphasizing the importance of collective voices against insecurity and poor governance. He noted that the protest would be rescheduled and assured the media would be informed of the new date. He also clarified that the decision to cancel the protest was not due to any pressure from authorities. According to him, both the Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) have shown cooperation in previous peaceful protests. He concluded by calling for support from the media and other stakeholders in the ongoing struggle against social injustice, economic hardship, and insecurity.
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On Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed speculations concerning the alleged suspension of new political party registrations by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Speaking to members of the National Assembly, the president firmly denied any involvement in such actions under his leadership. President Tinubu clarified that his administration has not issued any directive to INEC to cease the recognition or registration of fresh political groups. “I have never stopped the registration of any political party,” the president stated unequivocally during his address. He also dismissed widespread rumors suggesting that his government is pushing Nigeria toward a single-party political system. Reinforcing the inclusive stance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu remarked that the APC would be acting unethically if it refused to admit individuals who wish to align with the party’s progressive vision. Welcoming new entrants into the APC from Delta and Akwa Ibom States, Tinubu said: “You are all welcome to the progressives forum.” The president further emphasized that he bears no responsibility for the internal struggles of opposition political organizations. “It is indeed a pleasure to watch your houses in disarray,” he commented, referencing the challenges facing opposition parties.
