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The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, Leke Joseph Abejide, has dismissed allegations that the purported appointment of Deputy Comptroller I.D. Olorunfemi as the next Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service would trigger the forced retirement of senior officers. 

In a statement on Sunday, the lawmaker insisted that all exits from the service are being carried out strictly in accordance with existing public service rules.

Abejide made the clarification while reacting to reports alleging that the succession process within the Nigeria Customs Service could lead to the premature retirement of several senior officers.

He described the report as misleading and allegedly fuelled by misinformation from a junior officer within the Customs Service, maintaining that no officer is being removed to pave the way for another and that all retirements currently taking place are statutory and lawful.

According to him, the Public Service Rules are clear on retirement conditions for public servants, stating that officers must leave service after attaining the age of 60 years or completing 35 years in service.

“The Civil Service Rules are very clear. Retirement after 35 years in service or at the age of 60 is not by compulsion; it is by law. Therefore, suggestions that any officer would be retired to create room for another appointment are false and misleading,” Abejide stated.

He further explained that the Nigeria Customs Service is currently dealing with the effects of a prolonged recruitment vacuum spanning about sixteen years, which created a generational imbalance in its workforce.

The lawmaker noted that the absence of recruitment and career progression during that period resulted in officers rising through the ranks almost simultaneously, leading to a concentration of personnel within the same seniority levels.

According to Abejide, officers within the 41000, 42000, and 43000 service number categories advanced at similar periods due to the stagnation, creating a crowded upper cadre and a comparatively thin lower cadre.

“There is a 16-year gap of non-recruitment and stagnant promotion. As a result, officers of 41000, 42000, and 43000 service numbers categories have risen through the ranks almost simultaneously and now occupy similar levels of seniority,” he said.

He added that the structure has left the service top-heavy, with many officers occupying similar ranks, while a large number are now reaching retirement age at the same time.

The lawmaker disclosed that more than 1,500 officers are expected to retire under the provisions of Public Service Rule 100238, stressing that the process is a natural and legally mandated one rather than a consequence of any leadership appointment.

Abejide also dismissed claims linking him personally to the incoming Customs chief, describing suggestions of family ties or political influence as false.

He said he has no personal relationship with the nominee and only got to know him recently, adding that he has no knowledge of his family background or any prior association.

He maintained that the succession process within the Nigeria Customs Service is aimed at ensuring stability and continuity in leadership while addressing long-standing structural challenges caused by years of recruitment gaps.

Abejide further stated that the appointment process following the six-month transitional tenure of the current Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, is in line with established public service regulations.

Recall that President Bola Ahmed granted another six-month tenor extension for Adeniyi two days ago.

Nigeria’s customs succession controversy deepens as Rep Abejide dismisses forced retirement claims

A Fulani socio-cultural organisation, under the aegis of the Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria, has asked President Bola Tinubu and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to call Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, to order over ‘inflammatory remarks’ against Fulani communities in Oyo State.

The group made the call in a statement by its Convener, Ibrahim Barkindo Chubado, on Sunday.

This came after reports that Igboho issued a two-hour ultimatum to Fulani leaders in Oyo State over the alleged abduction of a woman and her children.

Igboho allegedly threatened to confront those he believed were responsible if the victims were not released within the stipulated period and vowed to invade a forest reserve allegedly being used as a hideout by the kidnappers.

Reacting, Chubado warned that profiling Fulani communities for crimes allegedly committed by individuals could deepen ethnic tensions and undermine efforts to promote peace and security.

The group emphasized that Fulani people are opposed to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality, maintaining that criminal acts should not be attributed to an entire ethnic group.

It stated that Fulani communities across the country are made up of law-abiding citizens who should not be collectively blamed for the actions of criminal elements.

It expressed concern over what it described as a recurring tendency to associate Fulani communities with criminal activities without sufficient evidence, warning that such generalisations could fuel hostility and violence.

“We are not saying there are no bad eggs among Fulani, Hausa or other Northern ethnic groups.

“However, criminals should be treated as criminals and not profiled based on ethnicity or religion. We are calling on the authorities to call Igboho to order,” the statement said.

Call Igboho to order – Fulani group urges Tinubu, Makinde

Some yet-to-be-identified gunmen on Sunday, stormed the residence of former staff member of Ogun State Television (OGTV), Mrs Kitan Oyesiku, popularly known as “Aunty Kitan,” and murdered her in cold blood.

DAILY POST learnt that the assailants invaded her home in the Kobape area of Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital, in the early hours of Sunday.

The late Oyesiku was well known in media circles, having served with Ogun State Television (OGTV) before her retirement. 

The body of her security guard was discovered within the security post, while the body of Oyesiku was found inside her apartment. 

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ogun state, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi said, upon the information, detectives were immediately deployed to the scene, where preliminary assessment revealed signs of forced entry and disturbance.

Babaseyi noted that her vehicle was also discovered missing.

He called for calm and assured members of the public that an investigation has commenced to unravel all the circumstances surrounding their death.

He said, “The incident was reported at Owode Egba Division on Sunday, June 21, 2026, by a resident of Iyana Agodo Village, who raised alarm over suspicious activities at the residence.

“The Ogun State Police Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of renowned broadcaster and retired Ogun State Television (OGTV) personality, Kitan Oyesiku, and her security guard. 

“Police detectives were immediately deployed to the scene, where preliminary assessment revealed signs of forced entry and disturbance.

 “During a thorough search of the premises, the corpse of the security guard was discovered within the security post, while the body of Oyesiku was later found inside her apartment. The victim’s vehicle was also observed missing from the premises.”

“The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. An intensive investigation is ongoing to unravel the facts, track down, and apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous act, while ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice. 

“Surveillance and intelligence-led operations have been expanded across relevant locations as part of ongoing proactive measures.”

Meanwhile, the Command commiserated with the family of the deceased, the Ogun State Television (OGTV) family, the media community, and all those affected by the tragic loss, assuring that no effort will be spared in ensuring that justice is served.

The command also urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to provide any useful information that may assist the ongoing investigation.

Retired Ogun broadcaster, security guard murdered at her residence

Isaiah Ejeh is reported to be attracting interest from Rivers United ahead of the 2026-27 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, season.

Ejeh is currently a free agent after his stint with Bangladeshi powerhouse Bashundhara Kings. 

He previously featured for Kwara United in the NPFL before moving abroad.

Rivers United are exploring defensive options as part of their squad rebuilding process. 

The Port Harcourt-based side see Ejeh’s experience at home and abroad as a potential boost to their backline.

Ejeh is understood to be keen on a return to the NPFL.

A move to Rivers United will give him the chance to play in the CAF Champions League next season.

NPFL: Rivers United interested in former U-23 Eagles defender

Mathew Arinze has left Kwara United following the expiration of his contract with the club, DAILY POST reports.

Arinze left the Harmony Boys after a three- year spell in Ilorin.

The towering defender played a key role in the Ilorin-based side’s relegation survival last season.

Approaches have been made by several Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, clubs since his exit. 

According to reports, two clubs from Africa have also shown interest in the centre-back.

Arinze is expected to study his options before deciding on his next destination. 

The focus is on choosing a club that matches his ambition after a commendable campaign with Kwara United.

NPFL: Arinze receives multiple offers after Kwara United’s exit

 

The Ogun State media community has been thrown into mourning following the reported killing of former Ogun State Television (OGTV) staff member, Mrs. Kitan Oyesiku, popularly known as “Aunty Kitan,” by suspected gunmen at her residence in the Kobape area of Abeokuta.

The incident was said to have occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 21, sending shockwaves across the state and leaving family members, neighbours, friends, and former colleagues devastated.

According to reports, unidentified assailants allegedly invaded Mrs. Oyesiku’s residence and carried out the fatal attack before fleeing the scene. Details surrounding the circumstances of the incident remain unclear, while the motive behind the attack has yet to be established.

Mrs. Oyesiku, who retired from Ogun State Television after years of service, was widely regarded as a dedicated media professional. Fondly known as “Aunty Kitan,” she earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and members of the public through her professionalism, warmth, and commitment to broadcasting.

Tributes have continued to pour in from members of the media community and associates who described her as a kind-hearted and hardworking individual whose contributions to the media industry in Ogun State will not be forgotten.

Meanwhile, mourners have continued to visit the family residence to offer condolences as the community grapples with the tragic loss.

Ogun Police Command Reacts

OGUN POLICE COMMAND INVESTIGATES CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE DEATHS OF RETIRED BROADCASTER, MS. KITAN OYESIKU AND HER SECURITY GUARD

The Ogun State Police Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of renowned broadcaster and retired Ogun State Television (OGTV) personality, Ms. Kitan Oyesiku, and her security guard. The incident was reported at Owode Egba Division on Sunday, June 21, 2026, by a resident of Iyana Agodo Village, who raised alarm over suspicious activities at the residence.

Police detectives were immediately deployed to the scene, where preliminary assessment revealed signs of forced entry and disturbance. During a thorough search of the premises, the corpse of the security guard was discovered within the security post, while the body of Ms. Oyesiku was later found inside her apartment. The victim’s vehicle was also observed missing from the premises.

The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. An intensive investigation is ongoing to unravel the facts, track down, and apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous act, while ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice. Surveillance and intelligence-led operations have been expanded across relevant locations as part of ongoing proactive measures.

The Ogun State Police Command commiserates with the family of the deceased, the Ogun State Television (OGTV) family, the media community, and all those affected by this tragic loss. The Command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring that justice is served, while urging residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to provide any useful information that may assist the ongoing investigation.

DSP OLUSEYI B. BABASEYI, anipr

POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

OGUN STATE COMMAND

ELEWERAN, ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE

21ST JUNE, 2026

 

The Oyo State Police Command and the Chairman of Oorelope Local Government have dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that victims of recent kidnapping incidents in parts of Oyo State have regained their freedom.

The police specifically debunked a viral video and related online content allegedly shared by Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, claiming that Mrs. Kuburat Omowumi and her son, who were abducted at Igbope on June 16, 2026, had been rescued.

In a statement, the Command described the claim as false, unfounded, and misleading, stressing that efforts were still ongoing to secure the safe release of the victims.

According to the police, intensive operational and intelligence-driven efforts are being sustained in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to rescue the abductees and bring those responsible to justice.

The development follows the circulation of videos showing the former Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, issuing a two-hour ultimatum to some Fulani residents in Igboho to produce kidnapped victims or face consequences.

Subsequently, another video surfaced showing residents celebrating, leading to speculation that the victims had been released.

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Similarly, the Chairman of Oorelope Local Government, Oluwale Ogundiran, dismissed reports suggesting that victims of a recent kidnapping incident within the council area had regained their freedom.

The council chairman described the reports as false and misleading, urging residents to disregard unverified information and rely only on official sources for updates on the situation.

Both the police and the local government warned that the circulation of inaccurate information could create false hope for affected families, generate unnecessary confusion, and undermine ongoing rescue operations.

While acknowledging public concern over the incidents, the authorities maintained that security agencies remain committed to securing the release of all victims.

The Police Command appealed to members of the public with credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and rescue efforts to make such information available to security agencies.

Residents were also urged to remain calm, vigilant, and responsible in their use of social media, while supporting security agencies with timely and useful information.

Popular British broadcaster Piers Morgan has reacted to United States President Donald Trump’s claims that United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer will be resigning. 

DAILY POST reports that Trump, in his Truth Social on Sunday, announced Starmer’s resignation. 

Trump had said Starmer failed on two things: immigration and energy. 

Although PM Starmer is yet to make any statement on his resignation as of filing this report, Trump’s comment has stirred debate. 

Speaking on the development, Morgan said Trump’s confirmation of Starmer’s resignation is a final humiliation. 

“President Trump confirms Keir Starmer is resigning as Prime Minister… before Starmer has confirmed it himself. “The final humiliation,” he wrote on X Sunday. 

Final humiliation — Piers Morgan reacts as Trump claims UK PM Starmer will resign

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has commemorated with fathers across the nation on the occasion of the Father’s Day and celebration.

He said that fathers across Nigeria should be commended for their invaluable contributions to family cohesion, social stability, and national development. 

The IGP, in a statement signed by CSP Anietie Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, said the Force recognises the sacrifices, dedication, and leadership demonstrated by fathers in raising responsible citizens and strengthening the moral foundations upon which a peaceful and prosperous society is built.

The statement said that the IGP acknowledged the pivotal role fathers play in nurturing responsible children, promoting sound moral values, and instilling the principles of discipline, integrity, hard work, and patriotism that are essential for nation-building. 

He noted that the sacrifices made daily by fathers in providing guidance, protection, and support for their families continue to strengthen the social fabric of society and contribute significantly to national progress.

The Inspector-General particularly saluted police officers who, he noted, despite the demanding nature of their responsibilities, continue to serve as dedicated fathers and guardians within their families. 

He recognised the sacrifices made by officers who often spend long hours away from home in the service of the nation, while remaining committed to their responsibilities as parents and role models.

He wished all fathers good health, strength, wisdom, and fulfilment, urging Nigerians to honour and appreciate the sacrifices, commitment, and enduring influence of fathers whose efforts contribute immensely to the development of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.

We recognise your sacrifices, dedication – IGP Disu to Nigerian fathers

A simple saliva test may one day help determine when a person is too sleep-deprived to drive safely or operate in high-risk settings, according to

The post Saliva test can predict dangerously sleep-deprived persons – Scientists appeared first on Tribune Online.