Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has voiced deep concern over the delays in the ongoing reconstruction of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. During a site inspection over the weekend, the Minister criticized the unsatisfactory pace of progress observed on the project. While addressing the contractors on site, Umahi urged them to take full responsibility and expedite their work to ensure the timely delivery of the project, which remains critical for regional connectivity and economic development. In addition to the Enugu-Onitsha project, the Minister continued his inspection tour of infrastructure projects across the South-East and South-South regions, aiming to keep timelines on track. While in Delta State, Umahi shared his disappointment regarding the construction on the Warri-Benin-Asaba Road, particularly highlighting the CCECC’s performance. He expressed dissatisfaction with the slow advancement on the Efurun-Sapele axis, calling on the contractors to accelerate their work pace to meet the agreed deadlines. “Timely completion is vital. Every contractor must work with dedication to deliver these road projects as scheduled,” Umahi stressed. He also applauded the partnership between the Delta State Government and the Federal Government, commending the state’s proactive decision to handle compensation payments to those affected by the construction. This, he noted, was instrumental in clearing administrative bottlenecks that usually delay such large-scale public projects. “This collaboration will certainly yield great results. The Federal Ministry of Works stands by its word and will fulfill all agreements,” Umahi affirmed. Furthermore, the former Ebonyi State Governor inspected the Eke-Obinagu flyover currently under construction in Enugu State. Unlike other sites, he expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the flyover project, praising the contractors for their efficiency.
As hostilities between Israel and Iran escalate, the Israeli Home Front Command has advised all citizens to avoid public gatherings and reduce movement in open spaces for their own safety. The guidance came through an official communication issued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday, emphasizing heightened vigilance and public safety in light of the conflict. According to the statement, the IDF strongly encouraged citizens to stay near secure locations until further instructions are made public. “People should limit their movement in open areas, and all forms of public gatherings should be strictly avoided,” the message from the IDF stressed. “Whenever an alert is received, immediately move into a protected space and stay there until another update is officially announced,” the military directive added. As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, the Home Front Command, a division under the IDF, is tasked with overseeing civilian defense and protection measures within Israel. Tensions between Iran and Israel have surged in recent days. On Thursday, Israel carried out a series of military airstrikes targeting Iranian soil, which reportedly led to the deaths of several senior military figures in Iran. In a swift response, Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles aimed at Israel. Israeli authorities confirmed the attack resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, highlighting the seriousness of the ongoing crisis.
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Former United States President Donald Trump has voiced his frustration over what he sees as a lack of recognition for his diplomatic efforts, particularly in the context of the current tensions between Iran and Israel. Trump made the remarks on Sunday via his Truth Social account, emphasizing his historical involvement in mediating several global conflicts. He stated that he has been instrumental in promoting peace in multiple regions but is often not credited for his role. The former president expressed hope for a peaceful resolution between the Middle Eastern adversaries. According to Trump, “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and they will, just like I was able to broker understanding between India and Pakistan — using U.S. trade leverage to foster dialogue, stability, and rationality.” He referenced previous achievements, stating: “During my first term, Serbia and Kosovo were on the verge of a significant conflict, as has been the case for decades. That situation was about to spiral into war.” Though he didn’t present concrete evidence, Trump claimed his intervention was pivotal: “I prevented it. Biden’s actions have worsened long-term outcomes due to poor decisions, but I’ll restore stability once more.” He further cited the Egypt-Ethiopia Nile River dam dispute, claiming credit for calming tensions: “There’s peace now, at least temporarily, because of my direct engagement. And it will remain that way.” Trump concluded by affirming optimism about resolving the Iran-Israel crisis: “Just like before, there will be peace soon between Israel and Iran! Numerous discussions and negotiations are already underway. I do so much, yet I’m rarely acknowledged — but that’s alright, the people see it.” These statements came just a day after Trump issued a stern warning to Iran amid escalating hostilities with Israel. Background of the Conflict LMSINT MEDIA reports that the Israeli Defense Forces recently launched a series of intense airstrikes on Iranian territory, resulting in the deaths of several of Iran’s senior military personnel. In retaliation, Iran responded by launching hundreds of ballistic missiles towards Israel. As per Israeli sources, the missile attacks resulted in at least three civilian casualties and significant structural damages.
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Pope Leo has voiced deep concern and offered prayers following the horrifying violence that occurred in Benue State, Nigeria, where a large number of civilians were murdered. According to reports, over 200 individuals were mercilessly slaughtered in Yelewata, a rural settlement located in Guma Local Government Area. The killings are among the latest in a string of violent incidents attributed to suspected herdsmen within the region. While delivering his Angelus address on Sunday, the Pope acknowledged the tragedy and pointed out that many of those killed were internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing within a Catholic mission in the area, further intensifying the horror of the situation. “From St. Peter’s Square, I offer prayers for Nigeria’s safety, justice, and lasting peace,” Pope Leo declared. “I especially remember the rural Christian populations in Benue State, who continue to endure repeated episodes of brutal violence,” he said.
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Nigerian socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has publicly declared that the Nigerian Senate ought to focus its attention on initiating impeachment proceedings against President Bola Tinubu, citing the unaddressed killings in Benue State. Yesufu, known widely for her role in the #BringBackOurGirls campaign, voiced her displeasure regarding the recurrent attacks on communities in Benue. Her reaction followed a recent violent incident in Yelewata, a local area in the state, which was attacked on Friday night by individuals believed to be armed herdsmen. According to reports, the attack occurred at approximately 10:00 p.m., resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The Benue State Police Command confirmed the tragedy, revealing that suspected bandits raided the community early Saturday morning. Tactical response units engaged the attackers in a gunfire exchange shortly after. Yelewata Hit by Suspected Herdsmen in Deadly Night Assault Despite this tragic event, President Tinubu has not made any public statements, visited the affected areas, or offered condolences to the victims’ families. This silence, contrasted with his swift reaction to the India plane crash that killed over 200 people, triggered criticism from Yesufu. She wrote via her official X account (formerly Twitter): “Tinubu is sitting down there gloating over the deaths of Nigerians whose mandate he truncated to occupy the office of the C-in-C and instead of Tinubu’s impeachment to be the topic of discussion, who is supposed to OWN a political party is the main topic!” Yesufu also pointed out the President’s condolence message to India, accusing him of failing to extend the same concern to the people of Benue. “Tinubu condoled with India and not with Benue.” It is worth noting that Benue State is governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC)—the same party as President Tinubu.
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• Ajasin’s Family Objects, Says True Democratic Icons Were Excluded • Activists Seek Recognition for Carrington, Adebanjo, Opadokun, Enahoro, Others President Bola Tinubu’s gesture to honour a select few democracy fighters during the commemoration of June 12 has sparked widespread debate, with claims that many foundational figures in Nigeria’s democratic struggle were left off the list. During his Democracy Day speech, Tinubu saluted several individuals who played critical roles in Nigeria’s return to democratic governance, acknowledging their bravery and commitment in confronting dictatorship. “The victory over tyranny wouldn’t have been possible without the bold sacrifices of those who stood tall during dangerous times,” Tinubu remarked during his national broadcast. He described the act of honouring these individuals as a significant move to preserve “the truth and legacy of our democratic evolution.” Ajasin Family Reacts However, the family of the late National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) leader, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, has expressed disappointment over the exclusion of their father from the honour list released by the Federal Government. Chief Tokunbo Ajasin, speaking via a statement, questioned the rationale behind omitting such a prominent figure from the recognition, despite his frontline role in the fight for Nigeria’s democracy. He said: “It’s shocking that Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, CFR, a foremost democratic icon, was excluded from the June 12 honour roll.” Tokunbo pointed out that Ajasin was not only the leader of Afenifere and NADECO but also provided ideological and structural leadership to groups like Campaign for Democracy (CD), Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Movement for National Reformation (MNR), and National Conscience Party (NCP). In his words: “Chief Ajasin was a foundational architect of our democratic framework. To omit him, particularly as NADECO’s leader, from the June 12, 2025 honours, is a disservice to history.” Citing former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba’s book Battle Lines: Adventures in Power, he listed Ajasin among the original 49 NADECO signatories, a list that included notable figures like Anthony Enahoro, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Bola Ige, and many others, most of whom were also omitted from the honours. “Chief Ajasin led with vision and sacrifice at a time when it meant risking everything,” he added. Despite the lack of official recognition, Tokunbo emphasized that the Ajasin family never sought rewards, stating: “Our father’s role in defending democracy came from deep moral conviction. Still, it’s unfortunate to erase the contributions of genuine heroes from our national memory.” More Democratic Advocates Left Out A separate coalition known as Quintessential Professionals also criticized the omissions, calling on President Tinubu to honour Walter Carrington, a former United States Ambassador to Nigeria who stood firmly with Nigerian democracy advocates during the June 12 saga. According to the group’s coordinator, Stanley Dunia, Carrington collaborated extensively with local activists while serving as ambassador between 1993 and 1997. He was married to Dr. Arese, a Nigerian from Edo State. The group argued: “Carrington’s dedication merits a posthumous award. His support helped keep the June 12 vision alive during dark days.” They also advocated for the inclusion of other overlooked heroes, including Tinubu’s allies in Afenifere and NADECO: Chief Ayo Opadokun, Pa Olanihun Ajayi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Senator Jonathan Zwingina, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, and others. Also mentioned were activists such as Kofo Bucknor-Akerele, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Chief Olisa Agbakoba, Dr. Chidi Odinkalu, Innocent Chukwuma, Mike Ozekhome, Yinka and Joe Okei-Odumakin, among several more. Presidency Responds The Presidency, responding through a senior source, acknowledged the backlash and attributed the omissions to “human error.” “Even individuals within Tinubu’s core campaign group, like those from SWAGA ’23 who were deeply involved in the June 12 struggle, were mistakenly left out. A revised list is being prepared,” the source explained.
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In the midst of escalating conflict, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has delivered a strong warning to Iran regarding its ongoing retaliatory strikes. According to Katz, Iran will suffer severe consequences if it persists in its aggressive responses toward Israel. Speaking during a strategic assessment session with the Israeli military’s chief of staff on Saturday, Katz firmly declared: “If Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei continues launching missile attacks against Israel’s home front — Tehran will burn.” This stark warning follows deadly Iranian retaliation, which resulted in the deaths of at least three Israeli citizens and left several others injured. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly addressed the attacks, expressing condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirming his government’s commitment to preventing further threats, particularly those involving nuclear and ballistic missiles from Iran. In what appeared to be a preventive measure, Israeli forces targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, highlighting growing fears surrounding Iran’s controversial regime. Iran responded swiftly and fiercely, launching a barrage of drones and missile strikes on various locations within Israel, including Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
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Israel has formally submitted a request to the United States of America to participate in its escalating military conflict with Iran. This disclosure was made public by Spectacular Index via a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday. “Israel officially requests the US join the ongoing campaign against Iran,” the platform posted. This major development unfolds amid growing tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran and Israel, which have sharply intensified within the last 48 hours. On Friday, Iran launched ballistic missiles targeting prominent cities in Israel in response to earlier airstrikes carried out by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on its nuclear development site. In a swift retaliation, Israel is reported to have executed a counterattack on Tehran, warning of its potential to ‘burn down’ the Iranian capital if provoked further. Additionally, the Times of Israel earlier revealed that former U.S. President Donald Trump communicated to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the United States might consider striking Iran’s underground Fordow nuclear facility should it become imperative to prevent the Iranian regime from developing a nuclear arsenal.
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United States President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to implement a visa restriction policy targeting Nigeria and 35 additional nations, according to a classified U.S. State Department memo. This move represents a major extension of the travel limitations initially unveiled earlier this month by the Trump administration. As cited by The Washington Post, the memo highlights a list of countries potentially affected, with 25 African nations among those under consideration for travel limitations or immigration-related penalties. The internal document, bearing the signature of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlines a 60-day deadline for the named countries to meet newly introduced immigration and security benchmarks set by the State Department. According to the memo, each listed government is required to submit an initial action plan by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, detailing steps towards compliance with the requirements. Some of the justifications for the potential visa bans include an inability to issue credible identification or civil documentation due to the absence of a central and cooperative governing authority, or the presence of systemic governmental fraud in certain nations. In other instances, the decision was influenced by high levels of U.S. visa overstays among nationals of the listed countries. Full List of Countries Facing Possible U.S. Visa Ban: These countries now face heightened scrutiny and must act promptly to avoid being subjected to full U.S. travel and immigration sanctions.
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The Niger State Government has called on the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) to fast-track efforts toward stabilizing gully erosion sites in Mokwa Local Government Area. This appeal was made by Governor Mohammed Umar Bago during a special dinner organized in honor of the ACReSAL World Bank team in Minna. The Governor, who was represented by Sadiq Yusuf, Deputy Chief of Staff and the State Coordinator for all World Bank-assisted initiatives, emphasized that immediate action on the gully erosion in Mokwa is essential to bring relief to the residents who have been enduring the environmental threat for years. Yusuf also reaffirmed the state government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the successful execution of all World Bank-funded projects across Niger State. Meanwhile, Dr. Joy Agene, Task Team Leader for ACReSAL, acknowledged the conducive atmosphere provided by the Niger State Government as a major factor behind the effective implementation of ACReSAL projects in the state. Dr. Agene further lauded Governor Bago for his exceptional backing of women’s participation in agriculture, describing his support as pivotal. On his part, Dr. Abdulhameed Umar, National Project Coordinator of ACReSAL, stated that the World Bank’s recent mission to Niger State enabled the validation and approval of the strategic management blueprint needed for ACReSAL’s success. He revealed that this would allow the Federal Government to invest in the development of 20 catchment-level strategic management plans. He added that the broader vision includes generating 200 micro-level catchment management frameworks at the sub-national scale, with Niger State taking the lead in implementation.
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Federal Government, Governors, Nobel Laureate Soyinka, and Media Giants Honour Iconic At a grand celebration hosted at the Eko Hotel and Suites Convention Center in Lagos, Nigeria’s political and media elite paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary founder of Vanguard Newspapers, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu—popularly known as Uncle Sam—on the occasion of his 90th birthday. The ceremony drew dignitaries such as President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Osun State Governor Senator Ademola Adeleke, former governors James Ibori, Donald Duke, Aremo Segun Osoba, Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, and other iconic figures in the media landscape. FG Hails Sam Amuka-Pemu as Guardian of Democracy Representing President Tinubu and the Federal Government, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, described Amuka-Pemu’s legacy as eternal. According to him, Uncle Sam’s name is embedded in Nigeria’s conscience and symbolizes unwavering commitment to truth and national unity. “We are gathered to honour a true titan—a man who stood as the moral compass of Nigeria during turbulent times. Uncle Sam’s voice has guided Nigeria’s democracy from dictatorship to liberation,” said the Minister. Minister Idris continued by portraying Amuka-Pemu as a walking monument of Nigerian journalism whose influence spans major publications like Daily Times, Sunday Punch, The Punch, and Vanguard. He emphasized that Uncle Sam co-founded The Punch in 1971 with the late Olu Aboderin and founded Vanguard in 1983, both established during politically sensitive times. “He is more than a journalist—he’s a custodian of Nigeria’s democratic journey and an unwavering advocate of press freedom,” Idris added. The Minister concluded by celebrating Uncle Sam as the oldest active journalist in Nigeria, urging current and future journalists to uphold his legacy of fearless and principled reporting. Delta State Governor Oborevwori Calls Him a National Treasure Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Monday Onyeme, echoed similar sentiments, declaring Amuka-Pemu a symbol of national excellence and integrity. According to Oborevwori: “Your contributions as founder of Vanguard and co-founder of The Punch have shaped Nigerian journalism. Through your Sad Sam column, you brought courage and wit that influenced millions.” He hailed Uncle Sam’s adherence to ethical journalism, saying his work has deeply influenced Nigeria’s civic consciousness. Osun Governor Adeleke Prays for Longevity Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, visibly delighted at the event, led celebratory Yoruba praise songs and offered heartfelt prayers for Uncle Sam’s continued life and health. “We celebrated together last year. And today, we celebrate again at 90. By God’s grace, we shall continue to celebrate you at 91, 92, even 100,” Adeleke said. Osoba: “Uncle Sam Is Complex but Extraordinary” Chairman of the event’s organizing committee and former Ogun State governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, described the celebrant as a “complex and difficult” individual but deeply principled. Recalling their long friendship and professional journey, Osoba shared anecdotes of trying to convince Amuka-Pemu to accept the birthday celebration. “We argued fiercely, but he finally agreed—on the condition that the event be informal and filled with music. That’s Uncle Sam—calm outside but intensely strong-willed,” Osoba revealed. He also praised Amuka’s courage in the military era, highlighting his satirical writing that often criticized military excesses without fear. “He once described the military as the most privileged class in Nigeria—getting everything free, including the company of ‘attack trade’ girls. Yet, he was never arrested. That’s the fearless Sad Sam we all knew,” Osoba recalled. Soyinka: “He’s the Master of Ambush” Professor Wole Soyinka, Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, described Uncle Sam as deceptively calm but incredibly cunning in journalistic tactics. “Sam is the real master of ambush—soft on the surface but relentless in his storytelling. I can only toast to his health and thank him for the brilliance he brought to Nigerian journalism,” Soyinka said. Reflecting on their early days in media, Soyinka recalled a vibrant group of journalists like Peter Pan and Sad Sam, who shaped Nigeria’s intellectual and democratic space. Aigbogun: “I Never Saw That Complex Side” Frank Aigbogun, a former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, gave a touching account of his first encounter with Uncle Sam in 1984. He recalled how he was asked a single interview question about a book he was reading. “After that, he simply said, ‘If what I heard about you is true, we want you here.’ I started in August, and worked with him for 14 years. I never encountered the complex side people speak of,” Aigbogun said. He concluded by lauding Uncle Sam as perhaps the finest journalist still active in Nigeria. A Lesson in Leadership and Generosity – Aigbogun’s Recollection Frank Aigbogun, former Editor of Vanguard Newspapers, shared a deeply personal story about Uncle Sam’s unmatched generosity and leadership. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in his early career, he recalled how Amuka-Pemu sent him to the UK to cover the elections of Margaret Thatcher—his very first international assignment. “It was my first time visiting the United Kingdom,” Aigbogun said. “Uncle Sam handed me the key to his personal apartment.” Soon after, Aigbogun found himself thrust into the editor’s chair at a very young age. He said Uncle Sam showed unwavering belief in his capabilities. “Every day, he would tell me, ‘Frank, have you ever seen a day when newspapers don’t have front page stories?’ I replied, ‘No.’ Then he told me, ‘The best editor is the one who knows what not to publish.’ That line echoes in my head to this day.” According to Aigbogun, this philosophy shaped his entire career. Uncle Sam often emphasized that while many people can publish stories, the real strength lies in deciding what not to run with—an editorial discipline only the best possess. Amuka-Pemu’s Humility and Originality Stand Out – Adetiba Veteran journalist and pioneer editor of Vanguard, Mr. Muyiwa Adetiba, emphasized that humility and uniqueness define Uncle Sam’s character. “I’ve known Uncle Sam for nearly five decades. Generosity is one of his most remarkable traits. Back in the Punch days, if you complimented his shirt, he would literally take it off and give it to you,” Adetiba said. He added that his admiration goes beyond
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Two individuals have lost their lives following a series of missile strikes launched by Iran, which reportedly hit Tel Aviv in four separate waves. According to the Jerusalem Post, one Israeli woman succumbed to injuries sustained during the Iranian attacks on Saturday. Another fatality occurred during the fourth wave of the missile barrage. Reports indicate that multiple residential structures in Tel Aviv suffered extensive damage from what were described as Iranian ballistic missiles. Emergency response teams were seen combing through the wreckage, searching for any survivors trapped beneath the rubble. As previously covered by LMSINT MEDIA, Iran initiated coordinated missile strikes across various regions in Israel from Friday night into the early hours of Saturday. Images circulating on social media platforms depicted homes either completely obliterated or suffering partial structural collapse due to the attack. Israel’s national emergency medical services confirmed that 21 people were being treated and evacuated after one of the rockets hit Israel’s central coastal plain. It is important to recall that, prior to this latest assault, Israel’s military had conducted numerous airstrikes targeting Iranian facilities in what appears to be an ongoing escalation between the two nations.
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Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has reacted to the recent ballistic missile strike launched by Iran against Israel, describing it as merely the start of what’s to come. This development follows Iran’s massive deployment of missiles and drones, aimed at Israeli territories, in what Tehran has called the initial phase of a forceful reprisal to previous Israeli airstrikes on Iranian soil. According to credible reports from LMSINT MEDIA, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had recently carried out multiple coordinated air assaults targeting Iranian sites. In a post shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, Fani-Kayode remarked that the United States misled Iran into believing that peace negotiations were still ongoing, while Israel quietly advanced its military agenda. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has finally retaliated by launching a coordinated missile and drone offensive against Israel. This is only the beginning,” he wrote. Fani-Kayode further condemned the Israeli strikes, labeling them unjustified acts of aggression that breached international norms. “The assault on Iran was unprovoked and represents a blatant breach of international law. It is, without doubt, an act of war,” he stated. He emphasized that Israel’s actions went beyond defense, highlighting that civilians—including women, children, and top Iranian scientists and officials—were targeted and killed. “Within the past year, Israel has launched operations against Gaza, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and now Iran,” Fani-Kayode pointed out. He also argued that Israel’s latest military actions occurred while Iran was still engaged in diplomatic talks with the U.S., suggesting deception on the part of the Americans. “America lulled Iran into a false sense of security while Israel prepared for military escalation. This makes the U.S. complicit in the operation, regardless of its denials,” he asserted. Fani-Kayode challenged the global narrative that justifies Israel’s actions as self-defense, asking why Iran’s right to retaliate is not recognized similarly. “If Israel has the right to defend itself after perceived threats, does Iran not have the same right after being directly attacked?” he questioned. He warned that Iran’s counteroffensive is only the beginning, predicting further escalations that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the region and possibly beyond. “Iran must and will retaliate more forcefully. This initial response is just the beginning. Before this ends, the Zionist state may cease to exist,” he warned. Fani-Kayode concluded by criticizing world powers who support Israeli aggression, calling them enablers of tyranny. “Those who support these Israeli aggressions, thinking power is always right, are mere cowards. The same monster they support today will eventually consume them,” he added.
