PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 LAWMA Waste, Investigation, Surveillance and Enforcement operatives on night duty have apprehended two environmental offenders along the Jibowu and Ojota corridors of Ikorodu Road for engaging in illegal waste collection and indiscriminate disposal of refuse at unauthorized locations. The suspects, were arrested during routine surveillance operations after being found carrying out activities that constitute environmental nuisance and undermine approved waste management processes, despite repeated warnings and sensitization efforts. The offenders are being transferred to the Oshodi Task Force Office for prosecution through the Mobile Court in accordance with the environmental protection laws of Lagos State. LAWMA reiterates that illegal waste collection and indiscriminate dumping remain punishable offences. Residents and businesses are advised to patronize only assigned PSP operators and dispose of waste through approved channels. Environmental responsibility is a shared duty. Toge...

 LAGOS HEALTH DISTRICT III URGES VIGILANCE, PREVENTIVE ACTION AGAINST EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE  The Lagos State Government, through Health District III, on Tuesday, called on residents of Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki, and Epe to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures against Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). According to a statement issued and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Health District III, Dr. Monsurat Adeleke, EVD is caused by Ebola viruses and can lead to severe illness and death if not managed promptly. Dr. Adeleke added that the District is proactively sensitising communities to reduce the risk and protect public health, stressing that the EVD spreads primarily through direct contact with the blood, saliva, vomit or other bodily fluids of an infected person or animal. She said that in order to prevent the transmission, residents are advised to avoid contact with sick individuals, dead bodies, and wild animals such as bats and monkeys, among others. She added that residents sho...

 PRESS RELEASE CP BODE OJAJUNI'S ANTI-KIDNAPPING OFFENSIVE YIELDS MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH AS OGUN POLICE NEUTRALISE TWO KIDNAPPERS, RECOVER SINGLE-BARREL GUN, ₦2.2 MILLION, MOBILE PHONE, EXPENDED CARTRIDGE, AND OTHER EXHIBITS Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command have recorded a major breakthrough in the Command's ongoing war against kidnapping, successfully securing the safe release of an abducted victim, neutralising two suspected kidnappers, and recovering a single-barrel gun, one expended cartridge, a mobile phone, a cash sum of Two Million, Two Hundred Thousand Naira (₦2,200,000), and other exhibits linked to the criminal enterprise. The successful operation is a testament to the effectiveness of the intelligence-driven and proactive crime-fighting strategies being vigorously pursued by the Ogun State Police Command under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, in ensuring the safety and security of resi...

 Ogun: TikToker’s Rape Allegation Found False, No Prosecution Planned — Justice Ministry The Ogun State Ministry of Justice has disclosed that Miss Nsikak Abigail Emem, popularly known as Mirabel, the TikTok user whose sexual assault allegation sparked widespread reactions in February, was found to have made a false claim and that the case lacked merit for prosecution. The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN), made the disclosure in a statement issued on Wednesday, four months after the incident generated public outrage on social media. According to Ogungbade, investigations conducted by relevant authorities, alongside admissions allegedly made by Mirabel, established that the rape allegation was deliberately fabricated. He stated that there was consequently no offender to be arrested or prosecuted in connection with the claim and no threat to public safety arising from the narrative initially presented. The commissioner explained that after ...

 Motorist Alleges Harassment By KASTELEA Officers In Kafanchan, Calls For Investigation A motorist, Musa Boniface, has called on the Kaduna State Government and relevant authorities to investigate allegations of misconduct by officials of the Kaduna State Traffic and Environmental Law Enforcement Authority (KASTELEA) stationed at the NEPA Roundabout in Kafanchan. In a public appeal addressed to Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Boniface recounted an encounter with KASTELEA officers following a recent repair on his vehicle, which had been involved in an accident. According to him, he was stopped by officers while returning from a wheel alignment service after collecting his vehicle from a panel beater. He stated that after presenting his vehicle documents and driver's licence, which he said were valid, he was instructed to park and informed that he would be penalized for a damaged headlamp allegedly resulting from the accident. Boniface claimed that despite attempts to explai...

 Residents Commend Gov. Uba Sani For Ending Decades-Long Hardship In Giwa Residents of Giwa Local Government Area in Kaduna State have lauded Governor Uba Sani for alleviating over two decades of hardship through the reconstruction of the Store Bridge along the Marabar Yakawada–Kaya Road. Speaking during a media tour of government projects, residents said the bridge has restored access to markets, healthcare facilities, and farmlands that were previously inaccessible during the rainy season due to the collapse of the old structure. They described the project as a significant achievement under the governor’s rural development agenda, noting that it has improved the movement of people and goods across several communities in the area. A commercial driver from Kaya village, Shehu Muharazu, recounted the difficulties motorists and commuters experienced before the bridge was rebuilt. He said transportation became nearly impossible during the rainy season, disrupting economic activities a...

  UPDATE ON POLICE-LED JOINT SECURITY PATROL OPERATION THAT LED TO THE NEUTRALISATION OF FOUR SUSPECTED ARMED GANG MEMBERS AND RECOVERY OF GPMG, AK-47 RIFLES, IEDs, AND OTHER EXHIBITS IN ANAMBRA _*As the Command identifies and debriefs the owner of the recovered vehicle to gather further insights and strengthen operational strategies in the area*_ _*Commends the courage and professionalism of the Joint Security Team and notes that no single security agency can take sole credit for sustaining safety and security in the State*_ The Anambra State Police Command provides further updates on the successful Police-led Joint Security Patrol operation coordinated by the Commander, Forward Operating Base (FOB) Aguata, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Austin Eligwe, which resulted in the neutralisation of four suspected armed secessionist gang members and the recovery of a cache of weapons and ammunition along the Ogboji–Ajalli Road, Orumba South Local Government Area. Following the opera...

 Nonye Soludo Pays Follow-Up Visit to Recovering Child, Reaffirms Commitment to Child Protection By Chinyere Nwoye  The Wife of the  Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has paid another visit to young Chiziterem to monitor his recovery and encourage his family, expressing delight over the remarkable improvement in the child's health. Mrs. Soludo disclosed this in a post shared on her official social media page on June 22, where she noted that the young boy is now much stronger than he was during her previous visit. According to her, Chiziterem's steady recovery is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the medical team handling his treatment, as well as the overwhelming love, prayers, and support received from compassionate individuals. She commended everyone who has continued to stand by the child and his family throughout the difficult period, stressing that their collective efforts have contributed significantly to his progress. The governor's wife ...

 DON'T BLOCK THE WAY: Why Obstructing Public Roads Must Be Discouraged By Bonaventure Alufo  For many residents of Anambra State, a journey that should take just 15 minutes often stretches into hours, especially during the morning and evening rush. While population growth contributes to traffic congestion, another major cause is the increasing encroachment on public roads, setbacks and drainage channels by illegal structures. Across major cities in the state, buildings, fences, kiosks and other developments have gradually taken over spaces meant for public access and infrastructure. Some property owners extend their fences into road corridors, while others erect structures on drainage channels, creating obstacles that hinder movement and violate urban planning regulations. Public roads and setbacks are not vacant lands available for private use. They are critical components of urban development, deliberately reserved to accommodate future road expansion, facilitate proper drai...

 NIGERIAN ARMY NEUTRALISE IPOB/ESN OPERATIVES, RECOVER ARMS AND IEDS IN ANAMBRA Troops of Sector 5, Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA, in conjunction with sister services and other security agencies, have recorded a major operational success against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), in Anambra State. Acting on credible intelligence on armed criminals reportedly masquerading in military camouflage and Nigeria Police uniforms to perpetrate violent attacks, the joint security team swiftly mobilised and tracked the suspects along the Ogboji–Ajali axis in Orumba South Local Government Area on 23 June 2026. The suspects were intercepted while moving in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle, leading to a fierce firefight during which three ESN operatives were neutralised. Following the engagement, troops conducted a thorough exploitation of the area and recovered PKM machine guns with 53 rounds of a...

TROOPS OF OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA RESCUE KIDNAP VICTIMS, FOIL TERRORIST MISSION, RECOVER WEAPONS AND AMMUNITION Troops of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA (JTF NW OPFY), have recorded another  operational success, rescuing three kidnapped victims and foiling a terrorist mission during separate operations in Zamfara and Sokoto States. The operations, conducted as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and enhance security across the North West, resulted in the recovery of a high-calibre weapon, ammunition, motorcycles, military accoutrements, and other operational items. On 22 June 2026, troops on routine offensive patrol at Bagega in Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara State rescued three female kidnap victims who were abandoned by the terrorists as a result of sustained military pressure. The victims, who had spent about three months in captivity, were identified as 28-year-old Zainab Muhammadu of Gara Zaima Village in Bukkuyum Local...

 Ohio mom insists 'I love my children' as she's sentenced over death of 2-year-old daughter allegedly abused by her fiancé More than a year after the death of her 2‑year‑old daughter, Lilith, Tien Hawkins was sentenced in Ohio for charges tied to the child’s abuse. The 26‑year‑old mother pleaded guilty to child endangerment and child abuse, leading prosecutors to drop more serious counts such as murder and manslaughter.  Judge Brett Spencer accepted a plea deal that gave her five years in prison, with credit for time already served, followed by up to three years of supervision.  During the emotional hearing, Hawkins broke down in tears as her lawyer argued she had been unaware of the abuse allegedly carried out by her fiancé, Brian Moser, while she worked to support the family. Investigators revealed that Hawkins had previously warned Moser about hitting Lilith too hard, particularly during potty training, when he punished the toddler for accidents. On July 1, 2025, Lilit...

 Lauren Sanchez Bezos says she is 'not embarrassed anymore' as Kris Jenner calls her an 'inspiration' Lauren Sánchez Bezos recently shared an emotional Instagram post about her lifelong struggle with dyslexia, opening up about the fear and embarrassment she carried throughout her broadcasting career.  Alongside clips of her on-air mistakes, the Emmy-winning journalist admitted that criticism early on left her doubting her abilities, even as she continued to succeed in front of the camera.  She explained that while dyslexia still challenges her, she has finally reached a point where she no longer feels ashamed of it. In her message, Sánchez emphasized that mistakes are part of progress, noting that she still rereads words multiple times but now embraces the process instead of hiding it. She encouraged children and parents facing similar struggles to see dyslexia as a different way of learning rather than a limitation.  Her openness drew immediate support from friends ...

 Muni Long reveals she underwent double lung transplant after doctors said she had 1 week to live: 'My jaw dropped' Singer Muni Long revealed on Good Morning America that she underwent a double lung transplant after leaving Brandy and Monica’s The Boy Is Mine tour in 2025. Diagnosed with lupus in 2014, the Grammy winner recalled falling ill during the tour, developing pneumonia, and barely finishing her final show.  Soon after, she collapsed at home and woke up in the hospital, where doctors told her she had only a week to live without surgery. Long admitted she initially hesitated to undergo the transplant, worried about how it might affect her voice. However, she said her son inspired her to prioritize survival and quality of life over vanity.  Six months after the operation, she reported feeling “fabulous,” with no symptoms or infections, and shared that she also underwent vocal surgery.  Though her voice now sounds different, she believes it may be stronger, even...

 Soldier gets emotional as he meets his preemie daughter for the first time after spending months away in training. National Guard soldier Kenroy recently experienced an emotional reunion with his newborn daughter Isla after months of military training kept him away. His wife Rose gave birth unexpectedly at just 22 weeks of pregnancy, with Isla weighing only 1 lb., 2 oz.  The premature arrival marked the beginning of a harrowing journey in the NICU, where Isla faced life‑threatening complications and emergency transfers.  Rose described the experience as both heartbreaking and terrifying, praising the medical teams at Children’s National and Holy Cross Hospital for their tireless efforts to save her baby’s life. Throughout Kenroy’s training, he could only follow Isla’s progress through daily FaceTime calls. Immediately after his graduation, he rushed home to meet his daughter for the first time, just ahead of Father’s Day.  A video shared by Children’s National captu...

 Brandi Glanville reveals benign tumor causing facial issues after long health struggle Reality star Brandi Glanville has shared new details about her ongoing health struggles, revealing on her podcast that doctors recently discovered a benign tumor in one of her facial lymph nodes.  The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum explained that the growth may be responsible for the fluid buildup that has caused her facial swelling.  She noted that previous doctors dismissed the issue as scar tissue, but her latest dermatologist’s tests provided a clearer explanation. This update comes just weeks after Glanville lamented the return of what she has long described as a facial “parasite.” For years, she has claimed to feel and see movement in her face, blaming the condition for her disfigurement.  Despite visiting numerous specialists, she said only sunlight, parasite medication, and a strict diet offered temporary relief.  Frustrated by the lack of answers, she has repe...

 They gave me a home” as Presidential Center opens in Chicago - Barack Obama The opening of the Obama Presidential Center has prompted Barack and Michelle Obama to reflect on their long-standing connection to Chicago's South Side. Speaking ahead of the center's opening, Barack Obama said the area is closely tied to many of the milestones in his personal and political life. “There used to be a road that ran right through this same park,” he said. “That’s how I first came to Chicago.” Obama noted that several significant locations remain within a short distance of the new center, including the neighborhood where Michelle Obama grew up, the venue where they held their wedding reception, the hospital where their daughters were born and their first family home. “So much of what is precious to me is because of this community,” he said. “The people who embraced some funny kid from Hawaii, they gave me a home.” Michelle Obama said the center holds particular meaning for her because of ...

 LAGOS STATE ASSEMBLY GETS FIRST FEMALE CLERK ADKLENIKE OSINOWO                        Lagos State House of Assembly  has recorded its first female clerk when the House officially inaugurated Adenike Abolanle Osinowo since its establishment 47 years ago.  The Oath of Office and Secrecy administered on Adenike Abolanle Osinowo marks a historical moment as the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa welcomes the first female Clerk of the Lagos House of Assembly.  Speaker, Obasa says the new clerk is expected to bring to the office, her wealth of experience with deep understanding of legislative governance to strengthen parliamentary administration and advance democratic institutions in Lagos State.  The event had a valedictory session for the immediate past Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko.  Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa described the immediate past Clerk Onafeko as a committed and dedicated Officer who reposit...

 OYO STATE GOVERNMENT DECLARES  16-HOUR  CURFEW IN 10 LOCAL  GOVERNMENT AREAS  Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved the declaration of a 16-hour curfew in 10 local government areas of the state. In a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, the curfew takes effect from Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The curfew, which is between 4:00PM in the afternoon and 8:00AM, and it affects local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park. The affected local government areas are: 1. Oriire (Headquarters: Ikoyi-Ile) 2. Orelope (Headquarters: Igboho) 3. Irepo (Headquarters: Kisi) 4. Saki West (Headquarters: Saki) 5. Saki East (Headquarters: Ago-Amodu) 6. Atisbo (Headquarters: Tede / Ago-Are) 7. Itesiwaju (Headquarters: Otu) 8. Iseyin (Headquarters: Iseyin) 9. Olorunsogo (Headquarters: Igbeti) 10. Atiba (Headquarters: Offa-Meta, Oyo)

 PDP Dismisses Speculation on Wike’s Permanent Defection to APC, Calls Him “Valuable Asset“ The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly rejected suggestions that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, could permanently switch allegiance to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing him as one of the party’s most valuable political assets. In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the PDP declared that it has no intention of relinquishing Wike, irrespective of any overtures or “luring attempts” from the APC. The party’s reaction came after APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda (also referred to as Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda), publicly commended Wike’s performance and leadership while commissioning a major project in Abuja on Tuesday. “The Peoples Democratic Party has noted with amusement the candid acknowledgment by the National Chairman of the All Progressi...

 The Senate on Wednesday passed the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking to establish state police across Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the country's long-standing efforts to decentralise policing and address growing security challenges. The landmark legislation was approved after a clause-by-clause consideration of the bill and a manual voting exercise in which more than two-thirds of senators voted in support of the proposal. Announcing the passage during plenary, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said the bill had secured the required legislative backing following overwhelming support from lawmakers. The Senate approved the bill after considering the report of the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution, presented by the Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the committee, Barau Jibrin. The bill was first considered by the Committee of the Whole before lawmakers adopted its provisions and proceeded to a final vote. Leading the debate, Senate Leader, ...

 No Clear Successor: Desmond Elliot Speaks on Tinubu's Legacy and Defends His Political Record Nollywood actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has sparked intense conversations online following his recent appearance on The Morayo Show. Representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Elliot addressed critical national issues, his political future, and his unwavering alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Search for Tinubu’s Successor: 'No Savior Yet' During the engaging interview, Elliot weighed in on the future of Nigeria's leadership, asserting that there is currently no obvious successor to President Tinubu. Dismissing the idea of a quick-fix political savior, he emphasized that Nigeria's progress relies on structural continuity rather than individual personalities. Elliot advocated for a robust, long-term governance model where successive administrations build on established frameworks, suggesting that relying on spontaneous p...

 Destiny Boy’s Wife Shares Emotional Tribute on Late Singer’s 23rd Posthumous Birthday June 24, 2026, would have marked the 23rd birthday of the late Afro-Fuji sensation Afeez Adeshina, widely known as Destiny Boy. To commemorate the poignant milestone, his widow, Iremide, took to social media to share a deeply touching tribute, laying bare the profound grief of losing her partner so early in life. Posting on her official Instagram page, Iremide shared a nostalgic throwback picture of herself alongside the late singer, set to one of his signature tracks. Her accompanying message was filled with raw emotion, capturing the daily struggles and heartbreak of navigating life and parenthood without him. A Tragic and Sudden Loss The Nigerian entertainment industry was plunged into mourning in January 2026 when Destiny Boy passed away at the young age of 22. His sudden death occurred after a brief, unexpected illness that initially left fans and colleagues in absolute shock. While his fami...

 Afrobeats Brotherhood: Asake and Wizkid's Warm Reunion at Paris Fashion Week Goes Viral The global fashion capital of Paris recently played host to some of the biggest names in music and style, but it was a heartwarming moment between Nigerian superstars Asake and Wizkid that stole the spotlight online. A viral video capturing their candid exchange at the prestigious event has sparked widespread excitement and admiration across social media platforms. The delightful encounter occurred during the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Men’s Spring/Summer 2027 (SS27) show, curated by the iconic Pharrell Williams in his celebrated role as Men’s Creative Director. As global fashionistas and music icons gathered to witness the latest trends, the brief yet meaningful connection between the two Afrobeats giants quickly became one of the evening's standout highlights. A Heartwarming Moment Captured on Camera In the viral footage circulating online, Asake known for his chart-topping hits and...

 France records first Ebola case in doctor returning from DR Congo France confirmed its first imported Ebola case after a humanitarian doctor returned from a mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Health Ministry said Wednesday, Anadolu Agency reported. The patient, who had returned from an area where the virus is circulating in Congo, was immediately admitted to a specialised healthcare facility and is in stable condition, the ministry said in a statement. “All precautionary measures, including the patient's isolation, were taken upon his arrival in the country,” it added, saying the transfer to hospital was carried out under secure conditions to prevent any risk of contamination. French health authorities said a full epidemiological investigation is underway to identify people who may have been in contact with the patient. The current outbreak is being driven by the rare Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is no approved vaccine. The disease causes sev...

 Oprah Winfrey: Whitney Houston fell off stage, begged audience not to leak At the Cannes Lions Festival, Oprah Winfrey transformed her acceptance of the LionHeart Award into a powerful reflection on purpose, responsibility, and legacy.  Speaking with festival chair Phil Thomas, she recounted her improbable journey from rural Mississippi to becoming one of the most influential figures in media.  Winfrey highlighted her philanthropic work, including the school she founded in South Africa, and shared personal stories about her friendship with Maya Angelou and her childhood experiences that shaped her drive to give back. She also revisited memorable moments from The Oprah Winfrey Show, including her interview with Whitney Houston. Winfrey described how she paused filming to ask Houston about her intentions, creating one of the most impactful conversations of her career.  Later, when Houston relapsed and fell off stage during a performance, Winfrey pleaded with the audie...

Charlie Wilson opens up about suffering multiple strokes that left him unable to walk Gap Band co-founder Charlie Wilson revealed that he suffered multiple strokes last year, leaving him unable to walk or perform. Speaking on Big Boy’s podcast, the 73‑year‑old singer recalled how his wife quickly noticed something was wrong and rushed him to the hospital.  Though he doesn’t remember much of the ordeal, Wilson said his family’s prayers and faith carried him through the frightening experience. Wilson explained that it took six months of rehabilitation to re-learn how to walk, describing the process as both challenging and transformative.  Despite the setbacks, he emphasized that he is “not finished yet” and remains confident in his vocal abilities. His determination reflects his commitment to returning to the stage, even after such a serious health scare. That comeback moment arrived in June when Wilson performed at the AFRAM music festival in Baltimore. Addressing the crowd, he...

 Madonna says, “My daughter approached me about writing a song together as a way to heal our relationship” Madonna has spoken about the personal experiences that influenced her upcoming album, saying family events played a significant role in shaping the project. In an interview with Interview magazine, the singer said her new record, *Confessions II*, was developed during a period marked by family-related events, including the passing of her brother Christopher Ciccone and her stepmother Joan. “I had a lot of stuff going on in my life personally,” Madonna said. She explained that the experiences influenced the direction of her songwriting. “It’s hard for me to write a song about nothing. I have to tell a story. So I wrote about a lot of family trauma, and then we started making dance music,” she said. Madonna also discussed working with her daughter, Lourdes Leon, known as Lola, on the album. According to the singer, the collaboration began after Lourdes suggested they write music...

 Niger Republic Formally Files For ICC Exit, Slams Court As Neo-Colonial Instrument The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed receipt of an official "instrument of withdrawal" from Niger Republic, formalising a dramatic break from the Hague-based tribunal that the nation's military leadership has threatened for nearly a year. The formal notification, submitted to the United Nations on June 18, 2026, makes Niger only the third nation in history to trigger an exit from the international court, following Burundi and the Philippines. Under the Rome Statute, the withdrawal takes exactly 12 months to finalise, setting Niger’s official departure date for June 18, 2027. In a scathing letter outlining the decision, Niger’s junta leadership accused the tribunal of systemic bias against African nations. "While the court had raised great hopes among peoples who cherish peace and justice, it has been misused and exploited. It has become an instrument of neo-colonialist...