News on Omalicha 91.1fm

NEWS STORIES  ON OMALICHA RADIO 91.1 FM, YOUR NUMBER ONE DEVELOPMENT RADIO STATION.

‎Wednessday  July 2, 2026

A SENIOR LECTURER in the Department of Polymer Engineering at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Engr. Dr. Nnamdi Iheaturu, has said the controversy surrounding the appointment and subsequent withdrawal of 24 special advisers by the university's Vice-Chancellor has rekindled discussions on university administration and institutional autonomy.

Speaking with Omalicha FM Correspondent Venice Valentine, Dr. Iheaturu described the appointment of aides by a vice-chancellor as a normal administrative practice aimed at improving efficiency and effective governance. He explained that no vice-chancellor can single-handedly oversee every aspect of a university's operations, making it necessary to appoint trusted individuals to provide support, monitor developments within the institution, and ensure prompt responses to issues affecting staff and students.

While acknowledging the concerns generated by the appointments, the university lecturer stressed that the real issue should not be the appointments themselves but the calibre of those selected. According to him, only competent, experienced, and trustworthy individuals who can provide sound professional advice should be entrusted with such responsibilities, as their recommendations could significantly influence the administration's decisions and overall progress of the institution.

Dr. Iheaturu emphasized the need to uphold university autonomy, describing it as a long-standing demand of staff unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

He noted that although the laws establishing Nigerian universities guarantee institutional autonomy, the principle is often undermined in practice through external interference. Universities, he added,  should be allowed to manage their affairs independently, generate internal revenue, and strengthen research, innovation, and development, while government support should focus more on scholarships, research grants, and endowments rather than excessive administrative control.

Dr. Iheaturu maintained that greater institutional autonomy would enable Nigerian universities to operate more efficiently, improve their financial sustainability, and deliver quality education in line with global best practices.

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AS THE DEADLINE for voter registration draws closer, renewed calls have been made for residents of Imo State and other eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the electoral process ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Speaking on the theme, “Beyond Criticism: Why the Journey to Good Governance Begins with the PVC,” during a special edition of Centre Stage on Omalicha 91.1 FM, Owerri, Reverend Dr. Obina Nwoko, a lecturer at the Imo State University (IMSU), said political participation is the foundation of accountability and good governance.

Rev. Nwoko called on religious leaders across the state to use their platforms to promote civic responsibility and political awareness. He urged them to encourage citizens to choose competent and credible leaders based on merit rather than political party affiliation or personal interests.

Meaningful development, Rev Dr. Nwoko said, can only be achieved when citizens take an active role in the democratic process, stressing that obtaining a Permanent Voter Card is the first step toward influencing leadership and public policy.

Rev. Nwoko reiterated that while citizens have the right to demand better governance, they must also fulfil their civic responsibility by registering to vote, collecting their PVCs, and participating in elections. He said greater voter participation is essential to strengthening democracy and ensuring that elected leaders remain accountable to the people.

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THE NIGERIA POLICE Force, Imo State Command, has arrested 12 suspects over alleged kidnapping, cultism, murder and other violent crimes during separate intelligence-led operations across the state. Three kidnapped victims were also rescued unharmed.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said the operations were carried out under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, in collaboration with other security agencies, local vigilante groups and community stakeholders.

According to police, the rescue operation followed the abduction of five passengers from a commuter bus along Obokofia Road in Egbema and the kidnapping of another victim in New Owerri on June 27, 2026. Acting on intelligence, operatives raided a suspected kidnappers' hideout in Obokofia, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, on June 30, rescuing three victims and arresting seven suspects, while others escaped and are being tracked.

In a separate operation, police arrested five suspected cult members during an investigation into a cult-related killing. Based on the suspects' confessions, operatives recovered the decomposing body of an unidentified man allegedly killed during a cult initiation. Investigations are ongoing to identify the victim and apprehend other fleeing suspects.

The command also recovered one AK-47 rifle, two locally made double-barrel guns, four locally made pistols, live cartridges, two vehicles, three motorcycles, a generator and eight branded cult caps.

CP Bosso reaffirmed the command's commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations against violent crime and urged residents to continue providing credible information to support security efforts across.

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THE NIGERIA Union of Teachers (NUT) has suspended its strike across public schools in Oyo State, directing teachers to resume work today. This followed renewed engagements with the state government and assurances of improved security after the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of the State.

In a statement  Wednesday, jointly signed by the union’s Oyo State Chairman, Hassan Ajibola Fatai, and Secretary, Olukayode Salami, the union said the decision followed a directive from its national leadership after reviewing the security situation and considering appeals from the Oyo State Government and other key stakeholders.

The NUT said it remains committed to protecting the welfare and safety of teachers while urging the government to fulfill its promises to strengthen security in schools and prevent future incidents.

The union also called on its members to return to their duty posts as directed while continuing to monitor the implementation of the government’s commitments.

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FUEL MARKETERS have warned that filling stations across the country could suspend petrol sales if the Federal Government attempts to impose price controls on the product, escalating tensions over the implementation of the downstream petroleum deregulation policy.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Chinedu Ukadike, issued the warning on Tuesday, while reacting to comments by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, that government would not tolerate profiteering or other practices that exploit consumers.

The minister had, on Monday, while speaking at the 2026 General Counsel and Legal Advisers Forum organised by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority in Abuja, stressed that while the era of government-fixed petrol prices had ended, deregulation did not mean regulators should abandon their responsibility to protect consumers from unfair market practices.

His remarks come amid renewed public concerns over persistent fuel price fluctuations and allegations of arbitrary pricing by some filling stations, with the government insisting that consumer protection remains a key priority even under a deregulated market

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ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE

FOUR VENEZUELAN police officers have been arrested and dismissed after they were accused of looting valuables from buildings destroyed by last week's devastating earthquakes, further fueling public anger over the government's response to the disaster.

The officers, attached to Venezuela's Criminal Investigation Agency (CICPC), allegedly stole cash, including U.S. dollars, from the rubble of collapsed buildings in La Guaira, one of the areas hardest hit by the earthquakes. Their arrest came after videos circulated on social media showing residents confronting the officers during the alleged theft.

Authorities said the officers have been removed from service and will face criminal prosecution if found guilty.

The incident has heightened public frustration, with survivors accusing some security personnel of taking advantage of the chaos instead of helping victims. Residents have also complained about delays in aid delivery, while volunteers and rescue teams continue searching through the debris for survivors.

The earthquakes, which struck northern Venezuela last week, have left more than 2, 295 people dead and over 10,000 others injured, according to official figures. Thousands have also been displaced, with many communities still lacking adequate food, clean water, shelter and medical supplies as rescue and relief operations continue.

The arrests come amid growing scrutiny of the government's disaster response, as grieving families and local communities demand greater accountability and faster humanitarian assistance.

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AND ON SPORTS

FIFA SAYS online abuse targeting players, coaches, officials and federations has risen sharply during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with nearly 89,000 abusive posts detected so far.

The governing body said incidents are more than 13 times higher than at the 2022 tournament. About 11 per cent of the posts contained racist language, while others included threats, harassment and discrimination.

FIFA said its Social Media Protection Service is monitoring public platforms, working with social media companies to remove harmful content and referring the most serious cases to law enforcement authorities.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the trend as unacceptable, insisting that racism, discrimination and abuse have no place in football or society. He reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to protecting players, coaches, officials and everyone involved in the game.

Meanwhile, action continued on the pitch as England booked a place in the Round of 16 with a 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo on Wednesday. Harry Kane scored twice to overturn an early deficit, sending the Three Lions through to a last-16 clash against Mexico, who qualified after defeating Ecuador 2-0 on Tuesday.

With the tournament entering a decisive stage, FIFA said it will continue monitoring online activity throughout the competition while urging fans around the world to support the game with respect, unity and fair play both inside stadiums and across digital platforms.

 If you have an eyewitness report, or wish to make inquiries, do reach out to our news desk at OMALICHA RADIO 91.1FM VIA CALLS to 09030670799

SATURDAY JUNE 27, 2026

TWO SUSPECTED SCRAP METAL SCAVENGERS have lost their lives following an explosion beneath a major drainage channel along the Nekede Old Road in Owerri West Local Government Area.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Henry Okoye, said in a statement that the incident occurred at about 9:15 p.m. on Thursday.

According to him, the victims were identified as 32-year-old Hyginus Akalonu from Umunumu in Ehime Mbano, and 22-year-old Victor Egwu from Agba Ishielu in Ebonyi State.

Okoye said police operatives responded immediately after receiving reports of the blast, secured the area and deployed the Command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit to examine the scene.

He explained that the victims were inside the drainage channel when the explosion occurred. They sustained severe burns and were rushed to the Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where they later died while receiving treatment.

The police spokesperson said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious objects or activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines on 0803 342 4051 or 0814 802 4755.

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THE HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION of Nigeria, HURIWA, has criticized the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, over his claim that he does not see the level of hunger many Nigerians complain about.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, the group described the remark as insensitive and disconnected from the realities facing many Nigerians amid the rising cost of living.

HURIWA cited recent reports by the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Programme, which classify Nigeria as one of the world’s hunger hot spots and project that about 34.8 million Nigerians could face severe food insecurity this year.

While acknowledging the government’s infrastructure projects and social intervention programmes, the association urged the Presidency to recognise the scale of the country's food crisis and respond with practical, evidence-based solutions rather than dismissing public concerns.

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A FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN LOKOJA has set aside its earlier judgment directing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, Justice Isah Dashen held that the court’s December 10, 2025 judgment affected the rights of the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which was not joined in the suit despite claiming ownership of the logo used in securing the registration order.

The court consequently vacated the judgment and ordered that the case be reopened to allow all relevant parties to participate before a fresh decision is made.

Counsel to the Peace Movement Party, C.S. Ekeocha, said the party approached the court after discovering that the NDC’s registration was based on a logo it had earlier submitted to INEC before the suit was filed.

According to him, the court agreed that the party’s interests had been affected and directed that all parties return to the position they occupied before the December 2025 judgment.

Ekeocha explained that the ruling effectively reverses every action taken by INEC in compliance with the earlier judgment, including the recognition of the NDC, the issuance of its certificate of registration and its inclusion in the commission’s records.

He, however, clarified that the substantive case is still pending before the court and that the latest ruling only ensures that all parties with an interest in the matter are heard before a final decision is reached.

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THE INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION, INEC, says it is yet to receive funds for the 2027 general elections, despite less than three weeks to the statutory deadline for the release of election financing.

Speaking in Abuja, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the Electoral Act requires election funds to be released at least six months before the polls, with the deadline falling on July 16.

Haruna warned that delayed funding could affect the procurement of critical election materials, including ballot papers, ballot boxes and new Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, devices, some of which must be imported.

He also disclosed that the commission is considering conducting mock presidential election exercises to test its technology ahead of the 2027 polls, assuring Nigerians that the technical issues experienced with the INEC Result Viewing Portal during the 2023 presidential election will not recur.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa, Ezenwa Nwagwu, cautioned that late release of election funds could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.

ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE…

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THE UNITED STATES HAS CARRIED OUT airstrikes on Iranian missile and drone facilities near the Strait of Hormuz in response to a drone attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship, 'M/V Ever Lovely'.

The US Central Command described the operation as a limited but firm response, insisting it remains committed to enforcing the fragile ceasefire with Iran.

President Donald Trump condemned the attack on the vessel as a violation of the ceasefire, warning that any further aggression would be met with force.

Iran confirmed the strikes but said it was not seeking to escalate tensions, maintaining that its actions were aimed at enforcing maritime regulations in the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, the attack has disrupted shipping operations in the Strait of Hormuz, with the United Nations' International Maritime Organization temporarily suspending efforts to evacuate stranded vessels from the Persian Gulf.

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THE DEATH TOLL FROM VENEZUELA’S devastating earthquakes has climbed to 920, with nearly 3,000 people injured and more than 50,000 others still missing.

Interim President Delcy Rodríguez said foreign search-and-rescue teams have begun arriving as efforts continue to locate survivors.

However, frustration is mounting among residents, who accuse the government of responding too slowly, forcing volunteers and relatives to search through rubble with bare hands.

Several countries, including the United Kingdom and the United States, have deployed rescue teams and humanitarian assistance to support relief operations.

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SPORTS…

HEARTLAND QUEENS OF OWERRI HAVE REACHED the final of the 2026 President Federation Cup for the first time after defeating FC Robo Queens 2-1 in Wednesday's semi-final in Benin City.

Umejiaku Oluebube gave the Owerri side an early lead before Tosin Rafiu equalised for FC Robo Queens. Defender Faith Samson scored the decisive goal in the 87th minute to send Heartland Queens into the final, where they will face Nasarawa Amazons on July 11 in Asaba.

In basketball, Owerri-born Ugonna Onyenso has been selected 53rd overall in the 2026 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets, with his draft rights set to be traded to the Detroit Pistons.

Onyenso, a graduate of the NBA Academy Africa and former University of Virginia standout, becomes one of six players of Nigerian heritage drafted this year and only the second Nigeria-born player to be selected alongside Felix Okpara in the same NBA Draft.

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FRANCE FINISHED TOP OF GROUP I WITH A 4-1 victory over Norway, inspired by a first-half hat-trick from Ousmane Dembélé, while Senegal boosted their hopes of reaching the World Cup last 32 with a commanding 5-0 win over 10-man Iraq.

England also secured a place in the knockout stage after Spain defeated Uruguay 1-0 and Cape Verde held Saudi Arabia to a goalless draw, results that confirmed the Three Lions as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.

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 FRIDAY JUNE 26, 2026

‎A RETIREMENT EXPERT , Chief Fidelis Nwanjoku Chukwuezi, has urged the Imo State Government to implement the provisions of the Pension Reform Act to enable workers in the state benefit from the contributory pension scheme.

Chief Nwanjoku Chukwuezi made the call during a retirement seminar organized by Leadway Assurance Company at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

He noted that while many federal government employees have benefited from the contributory pension system, workers in some states are yet to fully enjoy similar benefits.

According to him, implementation of the pension reform framework would help improve retirement security and ensure more efficient administration of pension benefits.

He therefore called on relevant authorities to take necessary steps toward implementing the pension reform framework in the state to ensure greater retirement security for workers.

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MINISTER OF AVIATION and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has officially signed off the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

The concession agreement was signed on Thursday at the airport's new terminal and transfers the airport's operational and management responsibilities to Aero Alliance Limited.

The event attracted top government officials and stakeholders, including Enugu State Governor, , representatives of the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), and Aero Alliance Limited.

Speaking at the ceremony, Keyamo described the development as a major breakthrough in Nigeria's aviation sector, noting that plans to concession the airport had remained unsuccessful for about two decades.

According to the minister, the project became possible under the administration of President , adding that previous investors had focused mainly on airports in Lagos, Abuja and Kano.

He disclosed that the successful concession of the Enugu airport has boosted investor confidence, with interest already emerging in three additional airports across the country. Keyamo also revealed that the concession of Port Harcourt International Airport is expected within the next few weeks.

The minister praised Governor Mbah for helping to attract investors to the project, describing him as a key partner in the initiative despite political party differences.

Addressing concerns from aviation workers, Keyamo assured staff that their welfare and interests would be protected under the new arrangement. However, he stressed that the airport would now operate under a private management structure focused on efficiency, accountability and improved service delivery.

He also challenged Aero Alliance Limited to justify the confidence reposed in it by the Federal Government, noting that its performance would serve as a benchmark for future airport concessions across Nigeria.

In another significant development, the minister disclosed that the Enugu State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at establishing a direct flight connection between Guangzhou, China, and Enugu. The proposed route is expected to boost trade, tourism and investment opportunities in the South-East region.

Governor Mbah, in his remarks, described the concession as a transformative step that aligns with the state's vision of positioning Enugu as a major aviation, logistics and investment hub in West Africa.

The concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport marks a new phase of collaboration between government and the private sector, with expectations of improved infrastructure, enhanced passenger experience and sustainable growth in Nigeria's aviation industry.

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THE FEDERAL Government has launched the Nigeria Gender Profile and Roadmap to Equality 2030, a new initiative aimed at addressing gender disparities and promoting equal opportunities across the country.

The roadmap was unveiled on Wednesday by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in collaboration with the African Development Bank and UN Women.

According to the minister, the document provides an evidence-based assessment of the current state of gender equality in Nigeria and outlines practical steps for achieving national gender equality targets by 2030.

She explained that the roadmap serves as both a comprehensive review of existing gender gaps and a strategic guide for implementing policies and programmes that will advance the rights and opportunities of women and girls.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim described gender equality as a critical investment in national development, noting that empowering women and girls would strengthen families, communities and the economy.

The initiative is expected to support Nigeria's commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development over the next five years

ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCENE

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FRENCH PRESIDENT EMMANUEL Macron has announced the immediate deployment of 85 French rescue workers to Venezuela following the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the South American nation on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The rescue team, specialized in search-and-rescue and debris clearance, will support efforts to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings.

The powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes, struck less than a minute apart, making the second the strongest to hit Venezuela since 1900. The quakes caused widespread destruction across Caracas and La Guaira, where the United Nations says more than 100 buildings have collapsed.

The latest official reports show that at least 188 people have been killed, while more than 1,500 others have been injured. Rescue workers continue searching through the rubble as authorities warn the death toll could rise further. More than 30 aftershocks have also been recorded, complicating rescue operations.

In a statement, Macron said France stands ready, alongside its European partners, to provide assistance based on the needs identified by Venezuelan authorities. France joins several countries, including the United States, Spain, Italy, Germany, Mexico, Colombia, and El Salvador, in sending rescue teams, medical personnel, and humanitarian aid to support the disaster response.

A state of emergency remains in force across the affected areas as emergency responders race against time to rescue those still trapped beneath the debris and provide relief to thousands displaced by the disaster.

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THE INTERNATIONAL Maritime Organization (IMO) has temporarily suspended its evacuation plan for seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf following renewed security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement issued on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from London, United Kingdom, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said the pause would allow the organization to reconfirm that necessary safety guarantees remain in place for vessels and crews covered under the evacuation framework.

The IMO said several vessels had already been successfully evacuated before the suspension. However, it received reports of an attack on a vessel in the Gulf of Oman that had passed through the Strait of Hormuz but was not operating under the IMO evacuation framework.

Dominguez stressed that the safety of seafarers remains paramount and said the evacuation plan would remain on hold until there is greater clarity on the security situation. He added that the move is aimed at ensuring navigational safety and protecting thousands of stranded seafarers from becoming collateral victims of the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The statement was issued on the Day of the Seafarer, highlighting the importance of safeguarding maritime workers

OMALICHA SPORTS

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ECUADOR PULLED OFF one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coming from behind to defeat Germany 2-1 in their final Group E match and secure a place in the Round of 32.

Germany, who had already qualified for the knockout stage, took an early lead through Leroy Sané in the second minute. However, Ecuador responded quickly as Nilson Angulo equalised just seven minutes later.

The South Americans completed the comeback in the 77th minute when Gonzalo Plata headed home from a corner kick, sending Ecuadorian fans into celebration.

Germany pushed for a late equaliser, but Ecuador's defence stood firm to seal a famous victory. The result earned Ecuador four points from three matches, enough to qualify as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams, while Germany still advanced as Group E winners despite the defeat.

The victory marks one of Ecuador's most memorable World Cup results and keeps their hopes of a deep run in the tournament alive.

Spain's victory eliminated Uruguay, while Cape Verde booked a historic place in the last 32 in their debut World Cup and will now face Argentina in the knockout stage.

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If you have an eyewitness report, or wish to make inquiries, do reach out to our news desk at OMALICHA RADIO 91.1FM VIA CALLS to 09030670799

THURSDAY  JUNE 25, 2026

A PUBLIC AFFAIRS analyst, Mr. Kesandu Kingsley Kenkwo, has expressed concern over recurring electoral irregularities in Nigeria, warning that unresolved issues from previous elections could undermine public confidence in the country’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking as a guest on our flagship program, CenterStage, Kenkwo lamented reports of discrepancies between votes cast and results eventually announced, describing the situation as troubling and a repeat of concerns raised during the 2023 elections.

According to him, persistent complaints about election outcomes suggest that critical reforms are yet to be implemented, adding that Nigerians deserve an electoral system that accurately reflects the will of the people.

Kenkwo called for institutional reforms that would reduce the concentration of power in political office holders and create stronger checks and balances within the electoral process. He urged leaders to seize the opportunity to leave behind a legacy of transparency, fairness, and accountability.

Addressing young Nigerians, the public affairs analyst appealed to them to resist being used as tools for electoral manipulation. He observed that many of the irregularities recorded during elections are often executed by young people who are recruited and paid by political actors to compromise the process.

Kenkwo urged youths to prioritize the future of the country over temporary financial gains, emphasizing that lasting national development depends on the integrity of those entrusted with electoral responsibilities.

He maintained that meaningful change can only occur when citizens, especially the youth, commit themselves to protecting the sanctity of the ballot and ensuring that electoral outcomes genuinely reflect the choices of voters.

As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 elections, Kesandu’s remarks add to growing calls from civil society groups, political observers, and concerned Nigerians for comprehensive electoral reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and public trust in the nation’s democratic institutions.

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THE GROWING CONCERN OVER economic and security challenges in the country, has led to a clamour for good governance, as citizens voice frustrations with the state of affairs. But it cannot stay a noise without action.

It starts with one simple step-  getting your Permanent Voter’s Card, which is the tool you need to vote in the change that works for you

With seventeen days to the end of the current drive by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC), to get more Nigerians to register to vote in the 2027 general elections, Omalicha 91.1FM, as part of its corporate social responsibility commitment, is amplifying the call to citizens to get their PVSs, before the window closes, and with it, their right to exercise their civic duty of electing who governs them.

On this month’s edition of CentreStage special ,  we shall be looking at why we must move “Beyond Criticism” and turn demands into democratic power.

 Join us on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.as we bring together, officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, the National Orientation Agency, NOA,  youth activists, traditional rulers, religious and women leaders to explain how PVC registration is the first stop on the road to accountable leadership and better services.

Do you have questions, need clarifications on why you should get your Permanent Voter Card? Tune in on the dial 91.1FM, call live — 09115983411 or 07049774656,  or listen via live stream at www.omalichamedia.com.

You can also follow and join the conversation on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook , and be part of building the Nigeria we demand.

CentreStage  Special Edition: “Beyond Criticism: Why the journey to good governance begins with your voter’s card,” is set to air on June 26, 9 to 11 a.m., only on Omalicha 91.1 FM Owerri – the voice for development.

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CIVIL SERVANTS have been urged to begin preparations for retirement early in order to avoid financial hardship and delays in accessing pension benefits after leaving active service.

The advice was given by the resource personnel  Chief Fidelis Nwanjoku Chukwuezi  at the retirement seminar organized by Leadway Assurance Company at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State,

Chief Chukwuezi said the programme was inspired by the need to help civil servants prepare properly for retirement and old age, noting that many workers fail to adequately plan for life after service.

According to him, late verification exercises and incorrect documentation remain major causes of delayed and underpaid pensions among retirees.

Chief Chukwuezi  further called on the Pension Fund Administrators to adequately educate contributors on available retirement benefit options and allow retirees to make informed decisions instead of automatically enrolling them in programmes without proper consultation.

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THE INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE, Olatunji Disu, has expressed concern over the increasing number of police officers being killed in the line of duty across the country.

Speaking in Enugu during the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Forensic and Investigation Centre built by Godfrey Okoye University in collaboration with the Enugu State Government, Disu said the Nigeria Police Force continues to lose personnel while combating crime, insurgency and banditry.

He cited the recent death of three officers of the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit in Maiduguri, who were killed while attempting to detonate an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by insurgents. According to him, the officers chose to proceed with the operation despite advice to postpone it in order to prevent possible civilian casualties.

The IGP stressed the need for greater public support for security agencies, noting that police personnel continue to make significant sacrifices in the effort to secure the country.

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THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT has welcomed the decision of the United States government to impose sanctions on a Nigerian businessman, Mukhtar Muhammad Adamu, and three Bureau De Change (BDC) firms over their alleged involvement in financing the terrorist group, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

In a statement issued on yesterday in Abuja, the Secretary of the Nigerian Sanctions Committee and Solicitor-General of the Federation, Beatrice Jedy-Agba, said the U.S. action aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to disrupt financial networks supporting terrorism. She noted that Nigeria had already designated Adamu and the affected firms under its domestic sanctions regime following extensive intelligence gathering, financial investigations, and inter-agency assessments.

According to the U.S. authorities, Adamu allegedly played a significant role in ISWAP’s financial network by transferring funds through Bureau De Change companies, helping the group move money used to support its operations. The sanctions block any assets or interests linked to the designated individuals and entities within the United States and prohibit U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with them.

The companies named on the sanctions list include Abbal Bako & Sons Bureau De Change Limited, Generation Currency BDC Limited, and Nine to Nine BDC Limited. Ibrahim Ogirima, Mukhtar Adamu, Adamu Chiroma, Ibrahim Abubakar, Abdullahi Usman, and Babangida Hammajam.

Jedy-Agba said the designations followed a broader update to the Nigeria Sanctions List approved and published on June 18, 2026, after authorities established reasonable grounds to believe that the affected individuals and entities facilitated, financed, supported, or otherwise contributed to the activities of ISWAP and other terrorist networks.

She added that the U.S. sanctions highlight growing international cooperation between Nigeria and its global partners in tackling terrorism financing and dismantling financial structures supporting extremist groups across Nigeria and the Lake Chad region.

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IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE TWO POWERFUL EARTHQUAKES that hit Venezuela yesterday, Acting President Delcy Rodriguez, has declared a state of emergency as rescue crews continue to search for survivors.  

According to reports monitored on BBC,  the quakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5  which occured in the early hours of the evening led to the collapse of multi storey buildings, and caused serious damage to the metro systems and international airport, leading to its closure.

The Associated Press, AP, reported the acting president as confirming at least 32 deaths.  The country was celebrating a national holiday and many people were expected to have been home when the earthquakes hit. The US Geological Services has warned that the number of casualties may run into thousands going by the magnitude of the second quake.

Venezuela’s interior ministry asked people to leave their homes as a precaution, as petrol supplies have been cut.

The earth quakes are said to the strongest to hit the country in a 100 years.

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IN ANOTHER DEVELOPMENT, France has reported its first Ebola case after a doctor returning from a humanitarian mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo tested positive for the virus.

The case was confirmed on Wednesday, June 24, after the doctor arrived back in France from Congo. French health authorities said the patient has been isolated and is receiving medical care, while contact tracing has started to identify anyone who may have been exposed.

Officials said the risk to the wider public remains low, but close contacts of the patient are being monitored as health agencies intensify efforts to prevent further spread of the virus.

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AND NOW ON SPORTS

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THE 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage entered a decisive phase on Wednesday as nations intensified their push for places in the Round of 32, with several qualification battles taking center stage in the three host countries of Canada, Mexico and the United States.

In Group A, with wins over South Africa and Korea Republic, Mexico tops the group with 9 points  ahead of South Africa as both move to the next round.

Co-hosts, Canada lost to  Switzerland 1-2 in the presence of Prime Minister Mark Carney, to place second in group B, as  Bosnia and Herzegovina battled Qatar to a 3-1 win to become third place qualifier from the group.

 Tournament favourites Brazil beat Scotland 3-0, while Morocco beat Haiti 4-2. Brazil and Morocco advance to the next round  from Group C.

The third host country, United States, and defending champions,  Argentina,  alongside Colombia, France, Germany, and Norway have also advanced to the round of 32, which begins on Sunday, June 28.  

As the race fiintensifies, Portugal, will be looking to leverage the momentum of the historic achievement of captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who became the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cups after finding the net in his side’s 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, as they play their last group match against Colombia for a berth in the next round.

With the group stage nearing its conclusion, the remaining countries are battling for every point as they seek to extend their World Cup campaigns and move one step closer to football’s ultimate prize.

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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a new $10,000 grant for every athlete who competes at the Olympic Games, regardless of medal status. The initiative, known as the Fit for the Future Olympian Grant, was unveiled by former Spanish basketball star Pau Gasol and will begin with athletes who participated in the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

The IOC said the grant is aimed at recognizing the sacrifices athletes make to reach the Games and providing direct financial support. About 14,000 Olympians are expected to benefit during each four-year Olympic cycle.

In another development, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, has announced that winners of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season will receive a minimum of ₦1 billion as prize money — the highest reward ever offered in Nigerian domestic football.

Dikko made the announcement on Wednesday after a strategic meeting between the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation in Abuja.

He said the new prize structure is aimed at improving professionalism, competitiveness, and the welfare of players and coaches. The runners-up are expected to receive ₦500 million, while the third-placed team will earn ₦300 million.

The development marks a major boost for Nigerian football, with efforts focused on making the NPFL more attractive and commercially viable.

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