PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 A Texas man is charged with murder after beating a man to death for "throwing a beer at his car", however the beer had actually been left on the hood of his car by his own passenger.  35-year-old Ye Myint Aung was left laying behind a Houston gas station for 12 hours after suffering an incredibly vicious beating. 911 was not called until a patron saw him lying on the ground suffering from obvious serious trauma. The patron who called 911 did so despite the protests of other patrons who she quoted as saying, "whatever you do, do not call 911". The 911 call was placed on May 23rd at approximately 9:30 p.m. An ambulance responded and transported Aung to a nearby hospital where he languished until eventually succumbing to his injuries on May 25th. An investigation was launched after the discovery of the horribly beaten Mr. Aung. Authorities quickly determined the suspect and the motive in this completely senseless death.  22-year-old Lansello Martinez was arrested and ...

  Federal gov’t orders probe into alleged neglect of accident victims at FMC Abuja The Federal Government has launched an investigation into a viral video showing alleged neglect of accident victims at the Emergency Unit of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja. LIB had shared the viral video of a man complaining bitterly after staff of the hospital left accident victims he rushed their unattended to. The good Samaritan, who recorded the footage, claimed he found the victims on the road and transported them to the hospital for urgent care. He alleged that hospital staff refused to provide immediate assistance, with one citing a lack of gloves. However, minutes later, as also seen in the video, some hospital staffers were seen assisting in lifting one of the severely injured victims into the emergency unit. Other victims, despite their injuries, were also seen leap-walking into the unit on their own. In response, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Obadiah Gana, in a st...

 FRENCH TOURIST FOUND DEAD IN BENUE HOTEL, POLICE BEGINS PROBE 9th June, 2025     Benue State Police Command has begun investigation into the death of a French national, identified as Pietier Gilles who suddenly died in a hotel in Gboko. Gilles, who is said to be 67 years old, was reported to have died on Saturday while lodging in an hotel in the ancient city. According to the spokesperson for the state command, DSP, Udeme Edet, the death of the French national was reported at police station in Gboko. “Yes, a French national who lodged in an hotel in Gboko was said to have died in the hotel and this was reported to the command on Sunday. “Investigation is ongoing,” PPRO said. When contacted to get details of the incident, the manager of the hotel, Amina Cordial, said she was in transit returning to Gboko. “I have not been around because I traveled out of town and I am just returning to Gboko, so I don’t have details of the incident. “But the owner of the hotel is aro...

 NEMA Steps Up Flood Awareness in High-Risk Areas By Chinyere Nwoye The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is intensifying an early efforts aimed at enlightening people and communities in flood prone areas of the country on this year's flooding and how to prevent loss of lives and property. The NEMA Director General, Mrs . Zubaida Umar gave this assurance during a courtesy call on the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo at the new Government House, Awka.  While buttressing her points on the reasons for the visit, the DG said that the entourage comprised of NEMA and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). "We have come to brief the governor on the stakeholders engagement exercise on the 2025 National Preparedness and Response Campaign on flood disaster and its related hazards." Represented by the Deputy Director Special Duties, Dr. Thickman Tanimu, the NEMA boss noted that the aim of the exercise would be successful with the support of SEMAs, LE...

 Keke Napep Riders Elect New Exco, Endorse Soludo for Second Term  ..Install Idemili North Mayor As Patron  By Uzo Ugwunze  Tricycle operators in Anambra State, under the aegis of  Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), disclosed weekend that all is set to endorse Governor Chukwuma Soludo's second tenure come 8 November, 2025 following his immense achievements in the state within three years in office. Making the disclosure during the election of all branch executives of TOAN in the state, held at Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Secretariat hall, the TOAN State Chairman, Comrade Onyekwena Michael, said that the endorsement became necessary in view of the governor's resolve to rehabilitate all roads in the state, adding that their tricycles no longer get damaged as the governor has rehabilitated the roads they ply on. According to Michael the date of the endorsement will be made public in no distant time and urged the governor to lift the suspension...

 Tragic Discovery of Missing Aircraft Claims Lives of Young Pilot and Two Passengers The aviation community is in mourning following the tragic discovery of a missing aircraft near Ladysmith, confirming the deaths of 23-year-old pilot Nqobile Biyela and two passengers. The plane, which departed from Virginia Airport on Sunday, was reported missing en route to its destination.

 POLICE PRESS RELEASE  ENUGU POLICE RESCUE AND ARREST ARMED ROBBERY SUSPECT FROM IRATE MOB, RECOVER BERETTA PISTOL Acting on credible intelligence, a combined team of police operatives from the Independence Layout Division and Anti-Cultism Squad of the Enugu State Command, working in collaboration with members of the Neighbourhood Watch, on June 8, 2025, at about 8 p.m., rescued and arrested one Anyanwu Izuchukwu Gabriel (male), aged 26, from an irate mob. A locally fabricated Beretta pistol was recovered from him, while his cohorts reportedly fled the scene. The suspect, who sustained severe bodily injuries inflicted by the mob, is currently receiving medical treatment. He confessed to being a member of the Black Axe Confraternity, while discreet investigations are ongoing to apprehend his fleeing accomplices. The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has commended the swift and collaborative efforts of the police operatives and community me...

 Nigerian Man Arrested in Saudi Arabia for Filming Comedy Skits During Hajj Pilgrimage. Saudi Arabian authorities have arrested a Nigerian man for filming comedy skits during the ongoing Hajj pilgrimage, citing violations of the solemn religious and cultural atmosphere expected at the holy sites. The man, whose identity has not been released, was reportedly caught creating humorous video content within the sacred precincts of the pilgrimage. Officials described the act as inappropriate and inconsistent with the spiritual focus required during Hajj, which draws millions of Muslims from around the world. Though details of the skits have not been made public, social media reports suggest that the content was considered disrespectful and offensive by some pilgrims. The arrest reflects Saudi Arabia’s zero-tolerance stance on actions that may disrupt the sanctity of the annual Islamic ritual. Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, calls for deep spiritual devotion and strict adherence t...

 "When I came after Nigerian Pastors, I lost 100% of my business..." — Daddy Freeze opens up on religious bias in Nigeria. Controversial media personality, Daddy Freeze, has revealed how his outspoken criticism of Nigerian pastors cost him everything. In a candid conversation with real estate mogul Dr. Stephen Akintayo, the former OAP didn’t hold back as he shared personal experiences that changed his life. “When I came after Nigerian pastors, I lost 100% of my business,” he said. Freeze explained that his decision to speak out against religious practices he found questionable didn’t come cheap. Watch video below. 

  Over the weekend, protests erupted in LA over ICE raids that led to the arrest of 118 immigrants. Police responded with tear gas & mass arrests. Pres. Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops, w/out the governor’s consent. What you need to know. Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement across Los Angeles, Compton, and Paramount, many gathering outside the Metropolitan Detention Center. Peaceful protesters were met with flash bangs, rubber bullets, and pepper spray. Some were arrested just for blocking traffic. This is the first time since the 1960s the fed. government has sent in National Guard troops without a governor’s approval. Governor Newsom called it unlawful. Mayor Karen Bass said LA is a "tinderbox" and warned that this show of force is “an intentional effort to sow chaos.” RFK Human Rights documents these human rights abuses, not just in California, but across the country. In Louisiana alone: 💰 $3.4B/year in ICE funding 👥 7,000+ detained daily 🏚 98% in ...

 President Tinubu’s Aide Audu Resigns President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Media Aide, Aliyu Audu has turned in his resignation letter. Aliyu Audu, who until his resignation, was the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, did not give reasons for his decision but thanked the president for the opportunity offered to serve in his government. The resignation was dated June 8, 2025 and was submitted through the office of the president’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila. Aliyu Audu thanked Chief AJURI Ngelale who also technically resigned as Special Adviser on media and publicity to President Tinubu last year, for nominating him for the position. He also thanked the president for considering him worthy to serve in his government, pledging his support even outside the government.

 PRESS RELEASE INTERNAL SECURITY: POLICE OPERATIVES NEUTRALIZE 7 SUSPECTED KIDNAPPERS, ARREST 5 SUSPECTED ARMED ROBBERS, RECOVER 2 AK-47 RIFLES, 5 STOLEN VEHICLES In its ongoing efforts to combat crimes and criminality, the Nigeria Police Force has achieved a series of significant milestones through proactive intelligence-led operations and a solid show of dedication to duty. The Force has successfully neutralized and apprehended multiple suspects involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, recovered stolen vehicles and significantly disrupted criminal activities in Delta and Kaduna States, underscoring the Force’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. On the 4th of June 2025, operatives of the Delta state police command alongside local vigilantes and anti-cult volunteers, acting on credible intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers along the Abraka Railway axis engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, which led to the neutralisation of four suspecte...

 In a shocking incident, the wife of Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore resident, has been arrested for allegedly planning her husband’s murder during their honeymoon in Meghalaya. Raja’s body was found in a deep gorge near Sohrarim, Cherrapunji, on June 2, after the couple went missing on May 23. Police say the wife hired a group of men to kill him shortly after their wedding in Indore. Meghalaya Director General of Police I. Nongrang confirmed that four people, including the wife, have been arrested in connection with the case. “She played a key role in planning the killing,” Nongrang said. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma praised the police for acting quickly and said the main suspects were caught within seven days. Three men from Madhya Pradesh have been arrested, while one female suspect surrendered. One more person is still being searched for. Tourist guide Albert Pde gave important information to the police. He said he saw Raja, his wife Sonam, and three men climbing over 3,000 steps f...

 India reported an increase of 276 active COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, taking the total to 4,302, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.  In the past 24 hours, seven deaths were recorded — four in Maharashtra, and one each in Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat — bringing the total fatalities in the recent surge to 44. In response, the central government has launched a nationwide COVID-19 mock drill today (June 5) to assess hospital preparedness. The drill will evaluate key areas like oxygen supply systems, isolation wards, ventilators, and availability of essential medicines, aiming to ensure that states are fully equipped in case of a further spike in infections. This proactive step comes after high-level review meetings led by DGHS Dr. Sunita Sharma, and follows a smaller drill held on June 2 focusing on medical oxygen infrastructure. Health facilities have been directed to ensure all systems, including PSA plants and LMO tanks, are fully operational a...

 In a bizarre moment during Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal sex trafficking trial, the music mogul approached veteran courtroom sketch artist Jane Rosenberg with an unusual request. During Thursday's lunch break, Combs asked her to "soften it up a bit," saying she makes him look like a "koala" in her sketches.  The 55-year-old defendant, who has pleaded not guilty to five criminal counts including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, now sports grey hair and a beard after months in federal custody. Rosenberg, who has covered major trials for over four decades including those of Ghislaine Maxwell and the Boston Marathon bomber, told CBS News about the unexpected interaction.  This comes as prosecutors allege Combs used his wealth and influence to orchestrate elaborate sex trafficking operations called "freak offs." The same day, a judge warned Combs' defense team he could be removed from court if he tried to interact with the jury.

 Bryce Dallas Howard is opening up about what it was really like growing up as the daughter of acclaimed director Ron Howard.  In a revealing new interview, the 44-year-old actress admits she was "such a messed up kid" who would "walk around the Disney lot reading about euthanasia" while her father worked on films.  Despite her unconventional childhood surrounded by Hollywood glamour, Howard says she was always "happy and smiley, but not extremely verbal," leading her parents to seek help from a psychologist. The therapist famously asked about her fascination with dark subjects, including "dead babies."  Now starring in the new Prime Video comedy "Deep Cover" alongside Orlando Bloom and Sean Bean, Howard reflects on how her famous upbringing shaped her career choices and why she's comfortable stepping aside to let others shine.

 Justin Bieber is getting candid about the pressures of fame and the search for authentic love.  In a series of emotional Instagram posts over the weekend, the 31-year-old Grammy winner and father shared his struggles with what he calls "transactional relationships." "Tired of transactional relationships. If I have to do something to be loved, that's not love," Bieber wrote alongside black-and-white selfies that showed his vulnerable state of mind.  The pop star didn't stop there. In multiple Instagram Stories, he addressed the constant pressure to "work harder" and meet others' expectations: "I don't think any of us can handle hearing, 'You just gotta try a little harder and you will be like me.' It's not true." Bieber, who shares 9-month-old son Jack with wife Hailey, emphasized that life should be about faith and loving one another, not endless work. His raw honesty comes at a time when many celebrities are speaking...

  This is why Aba is the Japan of Africa as young Nwa Aba builds a Cybertruck inspired by Tesla Aba Blog.  More photos below. 

  Abia Lands Commissioner Escapes Assassination Attempt on Okigwe–Umuahia Road Chaka Chukwumerije, the Abia State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt two nights ago when unknown gunmen opened fire on his vehicle along the Okigwe–Umuahia road. The incident occurred as Chukwumerije, a key figure in Governor Alex Otti’s administration, was returning to Umuahia. According to his brother, Dike Chukwumerije, a trailing vehicle unleashed a barrage of bullets on the Commissioner’s car. Miraculously, Chukwumerije and three other occupants escaped unharmed, though their vehicle sustained significant damage from bullet holes. Dike described the attack as a deliberate attempt on his brother’s life, highlighting Chaka’s dedication to public service and his alignment with Governor Otti’s reform agenda. “Chaka has buried himself in his work. He’s been selfless, focused, and fully aligned with the reform-driven government of Alex Otti,” he said. “Unfortuna...

 Governor Otti Slams Early 2027 Election Talks, Backs Tinubu’s Economic Reforms Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has criticized politicians engaging in premature discussions and campaigns for the 2027 elections, describing such actions as “trying to play God.” Otti made the remarks on Sunday during a courtesy visit by former Abia State Governor and current Senator for Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, and former Senator for Abia Central, Chris Adighije, at his residence in Umuahia. According to a statement by Otti’s Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the senators visited to commend the governor’s developmental strides in Abia State and discuss governance issues. Otti expressed dismay at politicians focusing on 2027, stating, “People in 2025 are talking of 2027… you can’t even talk about 2027 because there is no guarantee that you would go beyond 2025.” He emphasized that only the present is certain, urging leaders to focus on current responsibilities rather than speculative future...

 LASG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING ITS COASTLINE … Vows to Build Safer, Resilient  Infrastructure for Future Generations The Lagos State Government over the weekend reiterated its commitment to protecting the State’s coastline, building a safer, resilient, environmentally friendly and more sustainable Lagos that can bequeath to the next generation. Thisvwas disclosed by the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab while representing the state at the ongoing United Nations Ocean conference in Nice, France. According to him, Lagos, as a coastal state, faces severe climate risks such as rising sea levels, extreme rainfalls and excessive heat, but is not sitting back and watching. In his words: “Lagos as a coastal state, faces severe climate risks from rising sea levels, extreme rainfall and excessive heat. But we are not sitting back. We are building resilient infrastructure”. “So as a state, we must face our realities and those realiti...

 POLICE PRESS RELEASE  CP GIWA PLEDGES SUSTAINED PROACTIVE POLICING, EARNS PRAISE FROM ENUGU COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, SECURITY CHIEFS The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, has reaffirmed his commitment to professional, proactive, people-friendly, and results-based policing in the State. He restated this while receiving the Chairman of Ezeagu Local Government Area, Dr. Vita Ndu, and a delegation of retired security chiefs under the Eche Obodo Security Group of Enugu North Senatorial Zone. Dr. Ndu commended CP Giwa for his tireless efforts in maintaining law and order, particularly highlighting the swift response and support by the Police during the recent kidnapping and ritual killing incident at Umuojor, Isiagu Umumba Autonomous Community in Ezeagu. Also speaking, the group of retired security chiefs, including Major Generals, Commissioners of Police, DSS Directors, and Immigration Controllers, praised the CP’s achievements within a short period...

 Libyan Truce Committee intervenes to restore peace after fresh clashes in Tripoli Peace was restored in the Libyan capital of Tripoli following fresh clashes between armed groups on Monday, thanks to the intervention of the Truce Committee formed by the Presidential Council. Emced el-Malti, commander of the 222nd Reserve Brigade and a member of the Truce Committee, told local media that calm has been restored in the capital following the intervention of the committee's “conflict resolution forces.” Malti noted that the “resolution forces” have been deployed in all conflict areas across various parts of Tripoli, Anadolu Agency reported. The Libyan National Unity Government Defense Ministry issued a statement announcing that elements violating the ceasefire in Tripoli have returned to their previous positions. The statement stated that military movements in certain areas of the capital were being monitored, and that "the elements that violated the ceasefire have withdrawn and r...

 Leaders of coalition set to meet again on platform for 2027 BARRING a last-minute change, leaders of the coalition under works by some notable opposition politicians ahead of the 2027 elections are expected to meet in Abuja today, as part of the ongoing process of harmonization. The meeting is coming amid the options being considered by the leaders to either approach the Independent National electoral Commission (INEC) for the registration of a new party or adopt any of the existing opposition parties as platform to tackle President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 presidency. Meanwhile, one of the leaders perceived to be the rallying force in the politics of the South-South is said to be the latest prominent politician said to be in favour of the coalition. His decision to back the movement followed what he considered as the unbridled intrigues being deployed by the power brokers in the APC to overrun the South-South, preparatory to the 2027 ...

 You finally agree with Tinubu, just want to grab power – Presidency mocks Peter Obi The Presidency on Monday said the former Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi has finally agreed with some of President Bola Tinubu’s policies. Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said Obi agreed with the president’s policy on fuel subsidy removal and the unification of foreign exchange. In an interview with Arise Television, Obi said there was nothing wrong with the removal of fuel subsidy by Tinubu. Obi, however, noted that Tinubu should have taken some steps before removing the subsidy on fuel. Reacting, Bwala said Obi and his likes are just looking for ways to “grab power” because they have no alternative agenda. Posting on X, Bwala wrote: “Is anybody watching @PeterObi on Arise TV? He agreed with our policy of removal of subsidy and unification of the foreign exchange; he claimed he would have done it better than us in an “organized manner” “He was asked...

 Tinubu has reversed years of infrastructural neglect in southeast – Umahi Minister of Works David Umahi has hailed the impact of President Bola Tinubu in the Southeast and the entire country in general   The Minister spoke at the 2025 Sallah celebration with the Ebonyi Muslim community in Abakaliki, capital of the state. He credited Tinubu with reversing years of federal neglect in the Southeast. “Before now, many Southeast states had no federal projects. But today, the federal presence is visible across the region. That is true national integration,” Umahi said. The Minister also praised President Tinubu for fostering what he described as an “unprecedented” level of interfaith harmony and national integration in Nigeria. Umahi highlighted the administration’s religious and ethnic inclusiveness, which he said has reached an “excellent level.” “The relationship between faiths in Nigeria is much better now. It surprised many Christians when the President led a Nigerian del...

 Obi: I would’ve also removed petrol subsidy, floated naira — but not haphazardly Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in 2023, says he would have removed petrol subsidy and floated the naira if he was elected president. Speaking in an interview with Arise Television on Monday, Obi said he would have implemented the policies in a “gradual and organised” manner. The former Anambra governor said everybody knows that the “criminality and corruption” associated with the petrol subsidy regime had to end. Obi questioned the whereabouts of the funds saved from petrol subsidy since its removal, adding that the funds should have been investment in “critical infrastructure”. He said critical areas of development have not witnessed any significant improvement since the removal of the subsidy. Obi added that he would have negotiated with operators on a fair pricing template for the product. “I have consistently maintained that I would have removed the fuel subsidy. If you...

 Discos raise bills 107% despite poor power Electricity distribution companies recorded a shortfall of over N202bn in their revenue collections for the first quarter of 2025, despite a rise in electricity billing across the country, an analysis of official industry data by The PUNCH has shown. This was as data revealed that electricity billing by distribution companies increased by 106.68 per cent or N393.26bn year-on-year from the same period in 2024. According to the latest report published by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the 12 power distribution companies, also known as Discos, billed customers a total of N761.91bn between January and March 2025. However, only N559.3bn was collected during the period, translating to a revenue collection efficiency of 73.4 per cent and a shortfall of N202.61bn or 26.6 per cent. This performance is slightly improved compared to the same period in 2024, when the Discos collected N291.62bn out of N368.65bn billed, representing a ...