Part-Time Parliament Will Cripple Nigerian Democracy – Senate Insists on Full Compensation

Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu has firmly dismissed any suggestion that lawmakers’ salaries should be affected by economic cost-cutting measures, particularly proposals for a part-time legislative system in Nigeria. In a recent appearance on Channels Television, Adaramodu stated unequivocally that adopting a part-time National Assembly would be detrimental to Nigeria’s democracy. He argued that legislative operations play a vital role in sustaining democratic governance and warned that part-time service would translate to “part-time democracy.” “If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time. There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives,” he said. Representing Ekiti South Senatorial District under the ruling party, Adaramodu emphasized that the 109 senators and 360 House of Representatives members carry the burden of both lawmaking and public representation. Beyond legislative duties, they are also expected to provide oversight and serve as accessible representatives of their constituencies. He highlighted the frequent interaction between lawmakers and the citizens, stating that parliamentarians are often called upon for assistance in community and personal matters. “We go home almost every time, and we are the ones they call when a baby is born for naming ceremony support. When someone is building a house, they look to us for help,” Adaramodu explained. He questioned the logic behind paying part-time lawmakers the same as full-time ones if the structure of the parliament were to be changed, implying such a move would not truly lead to financial savings. “If we are on part-time, can’t the same amount of money be paid to part-time legislators?” he asked, further underlining that the legislature remains the most accessible arm of government to Nigerians. Adaramodu concluded that any attempt to weaken the legislature through part-time engagement is a direct threat to democratic stability in Nigeria.

Presidency Debunks Claims of National Honour Award to Aisha Yesufu by Tinubu

The Nigerian government has officially addressed the rumors claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred a national honor on well-known activist Aisha Yesufu. Temitope Ajayi, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity, clarified the matter on Friday. According to an earlier report by LMSINT MEDIA, President Bola Tinubu had conferred national honors on several distinguished Nigerians, including notable rights advocates, during a recent ceremony held on Thursday. Among those honored was Shehu Sani, a renowned activist and a former member of the Nigerian legislature. However, Aisha Yesufu, a vocal critic of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was not among the recipients. Known for her steadfast opposition to the current administration, she has consistently stated that President Tinubu is not her legitimate leader. Yesufu has long expressed her allegiance to the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi. She supports the policies and values that Obi promotes, arguing they represent the change Nigeria urgently needs. She has also been an outspoken critic of the Tinubu-led government whenever the opportunity arises. Furthermore, Aisha Yesufu maintains that Peter Obi was the true winner of the 2023 presidential election. She believes the election outcome was manipulated in favor of the APC and its candidate, Bola Tinubu. The confusion began when a certain “Aisha Yesufu” was listed among those receiving national honors. A user on X (formerly Twitter) tagged the Bring Back Our Girls campaigner, claiming: “It’s your own Aisha Yesufu. It is a reward for years of supporting the APC. You have Tinubu to thank. Buhari ignored you despite voting and supporting him. But Tinubu has rewarded you. Thank him and stop being an ingrate.” In a sharp and dismissive response, Aisha Yesufu replied: “God forbid!It can never be this Aisha Yesufu. Thank you.” To clear the air, Temitope Ajayi took to X to state: “The story on a viral list of national honours featuring the name of Aisha Yesufu and others credited to the Leadership newspaper is fake news. It should be ignored.” He emphasized that no additional honors were granted by President Tinubu beyond those he mentioned in his Democracy Day address delivered at the National Assembly.

Lagos Records N4 Trillion Annual Losses Due to Traffic Gridlock, Implements New Tanker Regulation Strategy

The Lagos State Government has announced that the city endures financial losses of roughly ₦4 trillion annually as a result of severe traffic congestion. This disclosure was made by the Special Adviser on Transportation to the Governor, Mr. Sola Giwa, during an exclusive interview broadcasted on TVC News. Giwa pinpointed uncontrolled parking habits and the disruptive presence of tankers and articulated lorries on major logistics routes as the primary drivers of this recurring challenge. Government Introduces E-Call-Up System for Tanker Regulation In response, the state administration has introduced a new Electronic Call-Up (E-Call-Up) system, set to be fully enforced from Monday, June 16, 2025. This digital platform is targeted at managing the operations of tankers and heavy-duty vehicles using the Lekki-Epe logistics corridor. According to Giwa, truck operators transporting goods into Lagos will now be mandated to register and schedule their movement through this E-Call-Up system. The platform aims to systematically coordinate the flow of these vehicles, eliminate haphazard roadside parking, and minimize traffic bottlenecks across the affected areas. Pre-Booking and Tracking Features to Streamline Traffic Operators of tankers must upload their Authority to Load (ATL) documents and pre-reserve parking spaces before entry into the city. The E-Call-Up system will also capture essential data regarding cargo movements and trip schedules, offering vital support for logistics management and regulatory enforcement. To accommodate this new policy, the Lagos State Government has approved seven dedicated truck terminals along the Lekki-Epe route. These parks will feature restrooms, cooking areas, electricity, and other essential amenities to enhance driver comfort and improve productivity. Giwa emphasized that this regulatory shift is the result of over two years of consultations with stakeholders. The measure aligns with the government’s larger objective of transforming the transportation network and fostering a sustainable urban mobility framework in Lagos.

Iran Responds to Israeli Airstrikes by Launching Over 100 Drones Toward Israel

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.

Israel Strikes Iranian Nuclear Facilities in Major Pre-Emptive Offensive

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.

Israeli Airstrikes Eliminate Iranian Armed Forces Chief, Major General Mohammad Bagheri

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.

India Plane Crash: British High Commission Responds with Urgent Update

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.

Akpabio Violated My Rights as a Senator – Senator Seriake Dickson Criticizes Tinubu’s Democracy Day Speech

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.

Global Reactions Emerge as Israel Launches Airstrikes on Iran

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.

Governor Otti Suspends New Contracts with Chinese Firm over Project Delays

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.

Adamawa Disability Group Advocates 5% Job Quota in State Employment

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.

Tinubu Grants Full Presidential Pardon to Ken Saro-Wiwa and Other Ogoni Nine on Democracy Day

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.

Heavy Security Presence Prevents Protest Against Poor Governance in Edo State on June 12

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.