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Seven Boko Haram terrorists arrested while returning from Hajj through NIN verification

The Federal Government says seven suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders returning from the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage were arrested through Nigeria’s integrated NIN verification system before being handed over to the DSS.

Former Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders attempting to re-enter Nigeria after performing the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage were arrested through the country’s integrated National Identification Number (NIN) verification system, the Federal Government has revealed.

Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed that seven known Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders were apprehended at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina State shortly after arriving from Saudi Arabia.

Speaking after President Bola Tinubu signed the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Act 2026 into law, Tunji-Ojo said the arrests demonstrated the growing effectiveness of Nigeria’s digital identity infrastructure in strengthening national security.

“I’m happy to tell you that even last week, Thursday, seven of the known commanders of Boko Haram and ISWAP at the point of coming back from Mecca were arrested in Katsina Airport and were handed over to the DSS,” the minister said.

According to him, the suspects were identified through the integration of Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database with the Nigeria Immigration Service, INTERPOL and other international security intelligence platforms.

He explained that the collaboration enables security agencies to instantly flag individuals on security watchlists whenever they attempt to enter or leave the country through official border posts.

Tunji-Ojo said the development highlights the importance of the country’s identity management reforms, noting that the NIN has become a critical tool in tracking criminal suspects and enhancing national security.

“The NIN has become more than just an identity number. It is now a major security tool that helps us identify and intercept persons of interest,” he said.

Following their arrest, the seven suspects were immediately handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation.

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Nollywood Veteran Hanks Anuku captured roaming the streets of Abuja

A viral video showing veteran Nollywood actor Hanks Anuku on a roadside in Abuja has sparked concern among Nigerians on social media. The footage, believed to have been recorded recently, shows the 64-year-old actor appearing distressed, holding a disposable cup and seemingly talking to himself. Some social media users speculated that he may have been under the influence of alcohol, though this remains unconfirmed.

​Sharing the clip online, eyewitnesses appealed for support, writing:

​“Please Nigerians, Nollywood actor Hanks Anuku needs our help. Please repost and share so he can get help.”
The video has generated mixed reactions, with some expressing concern for the actor’s well-being, while others urged the public not to jump to conclusions.

One user said, “He made his choice. Donate for him and he will still visit his drugs and drinks. Best advice na the one wey person advice himself.”

Several fans called on his fellow actors and the Nigerian Actors Guild to provide the actor with the necessary medical and financial support.\

Anuku previously made headlines in November 2022 after a viral video showed him dressed in worn-out clothing while wandering the streets, prompting widespread speculation about his mental health. The actor later dismissed claims that he was battling mental illness. However, this latest video shows concerns over the state of his mental health and well-being.

​During his time in Nollywood, Hanks Anuku was known for playing the archetypal bad-boy role, which earned him fame through his performances in movies like ‘The Senator.’ The actor’s current situation sheds light on the issues confronting movie stars and other celebrities who often battle with depression and financial crisis after leaving the limelight.

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Ivorian Star Diomande snubs Liverpool, picks preferred destination

Leipzig’s 19-year-old sensation Yan Diomande has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain, dealing a massive transfer blow to Liverpool.

The highly sought-after Ivory Coast international, who is currently representing his nation at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has been courted by several elite European clubs over the past few months.

Liverpool notably saw an €100 million (£86.8m) bid rejected by Leipzig last week and are expected to return with an improved offer.

However, despite the Premier League interest, Diomande has reportedly prioritised a move to the French capital, fully convinced by the sporting project presented by president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and manager Luis Enrique.

With personal terms now out of the way, they now have to negotiate with Leipzig, who are adamantly insisting that the versatile winger, who is tied to a long-term contract until June 2030, is not for sale unless a staggering €120 million offer arrives at their door.

Paris Saint-Germain have established European dominance under Enrique, successfully securing consecutive UEFA Champions League titles during the 2024/25 and 2025/26 campaigns.

The teenager believes joining the reigning European champions will provide him with the optimal platform to secure major trophies and eventually achieve his personal ambition of winning the Ballon d’Or.

His massive valuation is justified by a spectacular breakthrough 2025/26 Bundesliga season, where he registered 12 goals and nine assists in 33 appearances after joining Leipzig from Spanish side Leganés just last summer.

As Diomande prepares for Ivory Coast’s World Cup Round of 32 clash against Norway on Tuesday, June 30, Liverpool are now forced to pivot toward alternative targets such as Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh.

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INEC declares incumbent Oyebanji winner of Ekiti State governorship election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday, June 19th, declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as the winner of the governorship election held in Ekiti State on Saturday

According to Adenike Oladiji, INEC’s Chief Returning Officer and Vice-Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Oyebanji polled a total of 319,224 votes from the 16 local government areas of the State to emerge the winner of the Ekiti governorship election for a second term.

Oyebanji defeated his closest rival, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Wole Oluyede, who scored 40,543 votes.

Oladiji announced the result on Sunday in Ado-Ekiti, adding that Oyebanji satisfied all the requirements in the election and was declared elected.

Reacting, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji said his re-election for a second term is a renewed call to serve.​

The governor, who spoke shortly after he was declared the winner of Saturday’s governorship election, thanked the people of the state for trusting his administration, adding that winning the election means he now has even greater responsibilities.

Oyebanji said he understands the expectations that come with his new mandate and assured residents that his administration will stay committed to good governance and the welfare of the people.

He said, “I have a proper understanding of the responsibility that this victory has placed on my shoulders. It is a responsibility of service, service to the people of Ekiti State.

“I want to assure our people that we will continue to serve them with courage, compassion, humility and the fear of God.”

Regarding his plans for a second term, Oyebanji said his administration would continue implementing the state’s development agenda.

We have a development guide, and we will continue to faithfully implement that plan. At the same time, if there are new issues or areas that require attention, we will review them and ensure they are accommodated. Our focus remains the comprehensive implementation of our development agenda for the benefit of all Ekiti people.”

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